bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Space weather benchmarks on Japanese society
Authors: Ishii Mamoru , Shiota Daikou , Tao Chihiro , Ebihara Yusuke , Fujiwara Hitoshi , Ishii Takako , Ichimoto Kiyoshi , Kataoka Ryuho , Koga Kiyokazu , Kubo Yuki , Kusano Kanya , Miyoshi Yoshizumi , Nagatsuma Tsutomu , Nakamizo Aoi , Nakamura Masao , Nishioka Michi , Saito Susumu , Sato Tatsuhiko , Tsugawa Takuya , Yoden Shigeo
Published: May 2021

We surveyed the relationship between the scale of space weather events and their occurrence rate in Japan, and we discussed the social impact of these phenomena during the Project for Solar–Terrestrial Environment Prediction (PSTEP) in 2015–2019. The information was compiled for domestic users of space weather forecasts for appropriate preparedness against space weather disasters. This paper gives a comprehensive summary of the survey, focusing on the fields of electricity, satellite operations, communication and broadcasting, satellite positioning usage, aviation, human space activity, and daily life on the Earth’s surface, using the cutting-edge knowledge of space weather. Quantitative estimations of the economic impact of space weather events on electricity supply and aviation are also given. Some topics requiring future research, which were identified during the survey are also described.

Graphic Abstract
De novo gastric cancer developing after liver transplantation from deceased donor for biliary atresia: a case report
Authors: Higashidate Naruki , Fukahori Suguru , Ishii Shinji , Saikusa Nobuyuki , Hashizume Naoki , Koga Yoshinori , Masui Daisuke , Sakamoto Saki , Tsuruhisa Shiori , Nakahara Hirotomo , Tanaka Yoshiaki , Fukahori Masaru , Miwa Keisuke , Naito Yoshiki , Yagi Minoru
Published: May 2021

Background

Apart from Kasai’s procedure, liver transplantation (LTx) has dramatically improved the outcome of children with biliary atresia (BA). However, de novo malignancy has been reported to be one of the major causes of late mortality after LTx among adults. We report a rare case of de novo gastric cancer developing after LTx for BA received during childhood.

Case presentation

A 21-year-old male patient who had undergone LTx for BA at age 2 years occasionally visited our outpatient clinic due to symptoms of epigastric pain and dysphagia. Endoscopic examination and computed tomography revealed advanced gastric cancer at the gastroesophageal junction with multiple liver metastases. Despite systemic chemotherapy, the disease progressed, resulting in patient’s death 2 years after the diagnosis.

Conclusions

De novo malignancy in the absence of post-transplant lymphoproliferative disease is rare in pediatric patients who received LTx. To the best of our knowledge, no report has been available on the development of gastric cancer after LTx for BA during childhood. Primary physicians should therefore establish a follow-up plan for patients receiving LTx for BA considering the potential for the development of de novo malignancy, including gastric cancer, despite its rarity.
The PHD transcription factor Cti6 is involved in the fungal colonization and aflatoxin B1 biological synthesis of Aspergillus flavus
Authors: Mengjuan Zhang , Guanglan Lin , Xiaohua Pan , Weitao Song , Can Tan , Xuan Chen , Yanling Yang , Zhenhong Zhuang
Published: May 2021

Aspergillus flavus and its main secondary metabolite AFB1 pose a serious threat to several important crops worldwide. Recently, it has been reported that some PHD family transcription factors are involved in the morphogenesis and AFB1 biological synthesis in A. flavus, but the role of Cti6, a PHD domain containing protein in A. flavus, is totally unknown. The study was designed to reveal the biological function of Cti6 in the fungus by deletion of cti6, and its two domains (PHD and Atrophin-1) through homologous recombination, respectively. The results showed that Cti6 might up-regulate the mycelium growth, conidiation, sclerotia formation and AFB1 biological synthesis of A. flavus by its PHD domain, while Atrophin-1 also improved the conidiation of the fungus. The qRT-PCR analysis showed that Cti6 increased the conidiation of the fungus through AbaA and BrlA mediated conidiation pathway, triggered the formation of sclerotia by orthodox sclerotia formation pathway, and improved the production of AFB1 by orthodox AFB1 synthesis pathway. Crops models analysis showed that A. flavus Cti6 plays vital role in colonization and the production of AFB1 on the host grains mainly via PHD domain. Bioinformatics analysis showed Cti6 is conservative in Aspergillus spp., and mCherry mediated subcellular localization showed that most Cti6 accumulated in the nuclei, which reflected that Cti6 performed its important biological function in the nuclei in Aspergillus spp.. The results of the current study elucidate the roles of PHD domain containing proteins in the mechanism of the infection of crops by A. flavus, and provided a novel target for effectively controlling the contamination of Aspergillus spp. to crops.
Update on molecular diversity and multipathogenicity of staphylococcal superantigen toxins
Authors: Hu Dong-Liang , Li Shaowen , Fang Rendong , Ono Hisaya K.
Published: May 2021

Staphylococcal superantigen (SAg) toxins are the most notable virulence factors associated withStaphylococcus aureus, which is a pathogen associated with serious community and hospital acquired infections in humans and various diseases in animals. Recently, SAg toxins have become a superfamily with 29 types, including staphylococcal enterotoxins (SEs) with emetic activity, SE-like toxins (SEls) that do not induce emesis in primate models or have yet not  been tested, and toxic shock syndrome toxin-1 (TSST-1). SEs and SEls can be subdivided into classical types (SEA to SEE) and novel types (SEG to SElY, SE01, SE02, SEl26 and SEl27). The genes of SAg toxins are located in diverse accessory genetic elements and share certain structural and biological properties. SAg toxins are heat-stable proteins that exhibit pyrogenicity, superantigenicity and capacity to induce lethal hypersensitivity to endotoxin in humans and animals. They have multiple pathogenicities that can interfere with normal immune function of host, increase the chances of survival and transmission of pathogenic bacteria in host, consequently contribute to the occurrence and development of various infections, persistent infections or food poisoning. This review focuses on the following aspects of SAg toxins: (1) superfamily members of classic and novelty discovered staphylococcal SAgs; (2) diversity of gene locations and molecular structural characteristics; (3) biological characteristics and activities; (4) multi-pathogenicity of SAgs in animal and human diseases, including bovine mastitis, swine sepsis, abscesses and skin edema in pig, arthritis and septicemia in poultry, and nosocomial infections and food-borne diseases in humans.
Abdelkader Lagtaâ and His Conceptual Exercises in Poland, 1972–74
Authors: Strożek Przemysław
Published: May 2021

This article focuses on conceptual practices by Moroccan artist Abdelkader Lagtaâ, whose early 1970s work, created as a part of Polish conceptual milieus in Łódź and Warsaw, remains undocumented in art-historical scholarship. The author rediscovers Lagtaâ’s practices as part of conceptual strategies in Eastern Europe and discusses his work in relation to Okwui Enwezor’s article “Where, What, Who, When: A Few Notes on ‘African’ Conceptualism.” The author argues that while Enwezor and, later, other scholars, including Olu Oguibe and Salah M. Hassan, critique the work by African conceptualists to and through conceptualist strategies prevalent in Africa and the West, Lagtaâ’s work was almost entirely situated in the linguistic, performative, new media, and mail art experiments characteristic of Eastern Europe. While the work of conceptual artists from the African continent identified by Enwezor remained on the margins, outside of international and noninstitutional artistic circuits, Lagtaâ’s work was an intrinsic part of the early 1970s collective experiments and transnational networks of artistic exchange between Eastern Europe and other geographical regions.
Informing patterns of health and social care utilisation in Irish older people according to the Clinical Frailty Scale
Authors: O'Halloran Aisling M. , Hartley Peter , Moloney David , McGarrigle Christine , Kenny Rose Anne , Romero-Ortuno Roman
Published: May 2021

Background: There is increasing policy interest in the consideration of frailty measures (rather than chronological age alone) to inform more equitable allocation of health and social care resources. In this study the Clinical Frailty Scale (CFS) classification tree was applied to data from The Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing (TILDA) and correlated with health and social care utilisation. CFS transitions over time were also explored.

Methods: Applying the CFS classification tree algorithm, secondary analyses of TILDA data were performed to examine distributions of health and social care by CFS categories using descriptive statistics weighted to the population of Ireland aged ≥65 years at Wave 5 (n=3,441; mean age 74.5 (SD ±7.0) years, 54.7% female). CFS transitions over 8 years and (Waves 1-5) were investigated using multi-state Markov models and alluvial charts.

Results: The prevalence of CFS categories at Wave 5 were: 6% ‘very fit’, 36% ‘fit’, 31% ‘managing well’, 16% ‘vulnerable’, 6% ‘mildly frail’, 4% ‘moderately frail’ and 1% ‘severely frail’. No participants were ‘very severely frail’ or ‘terminally ill’. Increasing CFS categories were associated with increasing hospital and community health services use and increasing hours of formal and informal social care provision. The transitions analyses suggested CFS transitions are dynamic, with 2-year probability of transitioning from ‘fit’ (CFS1-3) to ‘vulnerable’ (CFS4), and ‘fit’ to ‘frail’ (CFS5+) at 34% and 6%, respectively. ‘Vulnerable’ and ‘frail’ had a 22% and 17% probability of reversal to ‘fit’ and ‘vulnerable’, respectively.

Conclusions: Our results suggest that the CFS classification tree stratified the TILDA population aged ≥65 years into subgroups with increasing health and social care needs. The CFS could be used to aid the allocation of health and social care resources in older people in Ireland. We recommend that CFS status in individuals is reviewed at least every 2 years.
Calculation of Acoustic Efficiency of Exhaust Silencers for Automotive Internal Combustion Engines
Authors: Tupov Vladimir , Matasova O.
Published: May 2021

Insertion losses as the main characteristic that mathematically describes the acoustic efficiency of a noise silencer has been considered. This characteristic shows the reduction of noise generated by its source, in particular by the internal combustion engine’s exhaust system, at the control point as a silencer use result. Has been presented a mathematical description of the insertion losses, and have been considered parameters necessary for calculating this characteristic. Has been demonstrated the analytical dependence of impedance for the sound emission by the exhaust system’s end hole from the coefficient of acoustic waves reflection by this hole. The performed analysis of the widely used formulas for calculating the coefficient of sound reflection by the end hole has showed their insufficient accuracy for project designs performing. Have been proposed calculation dependences providing high accuracy for calculations of the reflection coefficient modulus, and the attached length of the channel end hole without a flange in the entire range of the existence of plane waves in it. It has been shown that the end correction of this hole at ka = 0 is 0.6127, and not 0.6133, as it was mistakenly believed until now in world acoustics. Has been proposed a method for calculation the exhaust noise source internal impedance. This method more accurately, in comparison with the already known ones, describes the acoustic processes in the internal combustion engine’s exhaust manifold, thanks to increases the accuracy of calculation the silencer acoustic efficiency, that allows develop the silencer at the early stages of the design of an automotive internal combustion engine.
Human Environment Acoustics in Bauman Moscow State Technical University: Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow
Authors: Komkin A. , Vanaev V. , Devisilov Vladimir , Tupov Vladimir
Published: May 2021

The history of "Environmental Acoustics" research area development in the activities of the Bauman Moscow State Technical University’s "Ecology and Industrial Safety" chair in general from the end of the nineteenth century to the present time has been described. Much attention is paid to the activities of E.Ya. Yudin (as the creator of the technical acoustics scientific school at the chair) and his students as well. Have been presented the main areas of carried out at the chair research works (both theoretical and practical), related to problems of noise and vibration reduction. Have been considered the issues of technical acoustics teaching in the framework of the recently created "Environmental Acoustics" master's program, as well as the prospects for this area development at the chair in the near future.
Analysis of Transport Accidents’ Causes at the Fuel and Energy Complex’s Facilities
Authors: Fomina E. , Kiseleva A.
Published: May 2021

Have been presented the results of the analysis of industrial accidents related to traffic emergencies at the Fuel and Energy Complex’s facilities. Using the risk analysis methods have been identified root causes of an incident, and their level has been established. The frequently used phrase "the driver has lost operating the vehicle" does not contain information to identify the root causes of the accident and requires explanations for further development of measures to eliminate and prevent these causes.
Survey of lipoedema symptoms with compression garments
Authors: Paling Ilka , Macintyre Lisa
Published: May 2021

Lipoedema is an incurable chronic disease but effective treatment can minimise the impact of the condition
Prostate cancer: Diagnosis and treatment options
Authors: Rashid Saheed
Published: May 2021

Saheed Rashid, Managing Director at BXTAccelyon, explains how treatments for prostate cancer have evolved and the options facing patients with a diagnosis
Injectivity of linear combinations in $\mathcal{B}(\mathcal{H})$
Authors: Kostadinov Marko
Published: May 2021

The aim of this paper is to provide sufficient and necessary conditions under which the linear combination $\alpha A + \beta B$, for given operators $A,B \in {\cal B}({\cal H})$ and $\alpha, \beta \in \mathbb{C}\setminus \lbrace 0 \rbrace$, is injective. Using these results, necessary and sufficient conditions for left (right) invertibility are given. Some special cases will be studied as well.
Real-time operation of a multi-rate, multi-protocol quantum key distribution transmitter
Authors: De Marco Innocenzo , Woodward Robert I. , Roberts George L. , Paraïso Taofiq K. , Roger Thomas , Sanzaro Mirko , Lucamarini Marco , Yuan Zhiliang , Shields Andrew J.
Published: May 2021

Quantum key distribution (QKD) is the best candidate for securing communications against attackers, who may in the future exploit quantum-enhanced computational powers to break classical encryption. As such, new challenges are arising from our need for large-scale deployment of QKD systems. In a realistic scenario, transmitting and receiving devices from different vendors should be able to communicate with each other without the need for matching hardware. Therefore, practical deployment of QKD would require hardware capable of adapting to different protocols and clock rates. Here, we address this challenge by presenting a multi-rate, multi-protocol QKD transmitter linked to a correspondingly adaptable QKD receiver. The flexibility of the transmitter, achieved by optical injection locking, allows us to connect it with two receivers with inherently different clock rates. Furthermore, we demonstrate the multi-protocol operation of our transmitter, communicating with receiving parties employing different decoding circuits.
A mindfulness-based, stress and coping model of craving in methamphetamine users
Authors: Mutumba Massy , Moskowitz Judith T. , Neilands Torsten B. , Lee Ji-Young , Dilworth Samantha E. , Carrico Adam W.
Published: May 2021

There is increasing interest in the role of mindfulness and mindfulness-based interventions to optimize recovery from a substance use disorder (SUD). However, relatively little is known about the theory-based psychological and social pathways whereby mindfulness could have beneficial effects for managing a chronic, relapsing SUD. Informed by Revised Stress and Coping Theory, the present cross-sectional study examined affective, cognitive, and social pathways whereby mindfulness is associated with lower methamphetamine craving. A total of 161 HIV-positive, methamphetamine-using sexual minority men completed a screening visit for a randomized controlled trial. Using a hybrid structural equation model, we examined pathways whereby mindfulness is associated with lower methamphetamine craving. We found that greater mindfulness was directly associated with lower negative affect and higher positive affect as well as indirectly associated with less methamphetamine craving. Interestingly, the indirect association between mindfulness and methamphetamine craving appeared to be uniquely attributable to positive affect. Only positive affect was indirectly associated with lower methamphetamine craving via higher positive re-appraisal coping and greater self-efficacy for managing triggers for methamphetamine use. Methamphetamine craving was supported by moderate associations with greater substance use severity and more frequent methamphetamine use. These findings support the role of mindfulness in cultivating positive affect, which could be crucial to build the capacity of individuals to manage methamphetamine craving as a chronic stressor that threatens recovery from SUD.
A systematic review on nomophobia prevalence: Surfacing results and standard guidelines for future research
Authors: León-Mejía Ana C. , Gutiérrez-Ortega Mónica , Serrano-Pintado Isabel , González-Cabrera Joaquín
Published: May 2021

Background

Mobile phones allow us to stay connected with others and provide us a sense of security. We can work, chat with family and friends, take pictures, buy clothes or books, and even control home appliances. They play such a significant role in our lives that we feel anxious without them. In some cases, the relationship between humans and these communication devices have become problematic. Nomophobia (NMP) is the fear of becoming incommunicable, separated from the mobile phone and losing connection to the Internet. Since this social phobia was coined in the first decade of the XXI century, a growing number of studies have studied it and reported the prevalence of this technology-related problem. However, this research activity has generated mixed results regarding how we assess and report nomophobia and who may be at a higher risk of suffering or developing it.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review of 108 studies published in English and Spanish and collected them in Parsifal. We searched for assessment and prevalence data on nomophobia. Also, we looked at gender and age differences to identify risk factors and see if these differences exist and emerge worldwide.

Results

In this study, we find that women and younger individuals suffer more from nomophobia. The disparity in reporting the prevalence of nomophobia is enormous since the percentages of “at-risk” participants go from 13% to 79%, and participants suffering from it are between 6% and 73%, being the score in the range of 45.5 and 93.82. Within the group of nomophobic people, moderate cases vary between 25.7% and 73.3%, and severe cases, between 1% and 87%. Such disparity is due to differences in assessment criteria. Females and young people seem to be more vulnerable to nomophobia although methodological disparity makes it difficult to reach definitive conclusions. We conclude our review by recommending some common guidelines for guiding future research.
Mapping Rora expression in resting and activated CD4+ T cells
Authors: Haim-Vilmovsky Liora , Henriksson Johan , Walker Jennifer A. , Miao Zhichao , Natan Eviatar , Kar Gozde , Clare Simon , Barlow Jillian L. , Charidemou Evelina , Mamanova Lira , Chen Xi , Proserpio Valentina , Pramanik Jhuma , Woodhouse Steven , Protasio Anna V. , Efremova Mirjana , Griffin Julian L. , Berriman Matt , Dougan Gordon , Fisher Jasmin , Marioni John C. , McKenzie Andrew N. J. , Teichmann Sarah A.
Published: May 2021

The transcription factorRorahas been shown to be important for the development of ILC2 and the regulation of ILC3, macrophages and Treg cells. Here we investigate the role ofRoraacross CD4+ T cells in general, but with an emphasis on Th2 cells, bothin vitroas well as in the context of severalin vivotype 2 infection models. We dissect the function ofRorausing overexpression and a CD4-conditionalRora-knockout mouse, as well as a RORA-reporter mouse. We establish the importance ofRorain CD4+ T cells for controlling lung inflammation induced byNippostrongylus brasiliensisinfection, and have measured the effect on downstream genes using RNA-seq. Using a systematic stimulation screen of CD4+ T cells, coupled with RNA-seq, we identify upstream regulators ofRora, most importantly IL-33 and CCL7. Our data suggest thatRorais a negative regulator of the immune system, possibly through several downstream pathways, and is under control of the local microenvironment.
Association between a soy-based infant diet and the onset of puberty: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Oliveira Flávia Ramos Kazan , Gustavo Ana Flora Silva e , Gonçalves Renan Braga , Bolfi Fernanda , Mendes Adriana Lúcia , Nunes-Nogueira Vania dos Santos
Published: May 2021

The objective of this systematic review was to evaluate the association between a soy-based infant diet and the onset of puberty. We included studies in which children were fed a soy-based diet, and we compared them with those who were not. The primary outcomes were the onset of puberty in girls (thelarche, pubarche, and menarche age), boys (pubarche, voice change, testicular and penis enlargement age), and both (risk of delayed and precocious puberty [PP]). Search strategies were performed in PubMed, Embase, LILACS, and CENTRAL databases. Two reviewers selected eligible studies, assessed the risk of bias, and extracted data from the included studies. The odds ratio (OR) and mean difference (MD) were calculated with a 95% confidence interval (CI) as a measure of the association between soy consumption and outcomes. We used a random-effects model to pool results across studies and the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation to evaluate the certainty of evidence. We included eight studies in which 598 children consumed a soy-based diet but 2957 did not. The primary outcomes that could be plotted in the meta-analysis were the risk of PP and age at menarche. There was no statistical difference between groups for PP (OR: 0.51, 95% CI: 0.09 to 2.94, 3 studies, 206 participants, low certainty of evidence). No between-group difference was observed in menarche age (MD 0.14 years, 95% CI -0.16 to 0.45, 3 studies, 605 children, low certainty of evidence). One study presented this outcome in terms of median and interquartile range, and although the onset of menarche was marginally increased in girls who received a soy-based diet, the reported age was within the normal age range for menarche. We did not find any association between a soy-based infant diet and the onset of puberty in boys or girls.

Trial Registration: PROSPERO registration: CRD42018088902.
Reliability of pelvic floor muscle surface electromyography (sEMG) recordings during synchronous whole body vibration
Authors: Chmielewska Daria , Sobota Grzegorz , Dolibog Paweł , Dolibog Patrycja , Opala-Berdzik Agnieszka
Published: May 2021

The primary aim of the study was to assess intraday and interday reliability of surface electromyography (sEMG) reflex activity of the pelvic floor muscles during synchronous whole-body vibration (S-WBV) of two intensities (30Hz/2mm; 40Hz/4mm) using band-stop filter and high-pass filter signal processing. The secondary aim of the study was to assess intraday and interday (test-retest) reliability of sEMG obtained from maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) test. We evaluated the intraday reliability of sEMG recordings obtained during sessions 1 and 2 performed on the same day. The sessions consisting of maximal voluntary pelvic floor muscle contraction and synchronous vibration sets with 1-hour rest in-between sessions 1 and 2 in healthy nulliparous women. The next intraday reliability was evaluated between the results of sessions 3 and 4 performed on the same day but followed at an interval of 4 weeks. to include the entire menstrual cycle. The interday reliability was determined based on the results of sessions 1 and 3 using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC 3,3). The intraday ICCs for band-stop filtered mean and median sEMG frequency and mean normalized sEMGRMS amplitude of the 30Hz/2mm (ICC = 0.89–0.99) and 40Hz/4mm vibration (ICC = 0.95–0.99) indicated substantial reproducibility. The intraday reliability of high-pass filter at 100-450Hz for these parameters was also substantial (30Hz/2mm ICC of 0.92 to 0.98; 40Hz/4mm ICC of 0.88 to 0.98). The interday reliability (session 1 vs. session 3) of the mean normalized sEMGRMS amplitude for band-stop filtered means of 40 Hz/4mm and 30Hz/2mm vibration recordings was substantial (ICC = 0.82 and 0.93). However, ICCs of the mean and median frequency were indicative of fair reliability (ICC of 0.43 to 0.59). The interday reliability of mean normalized sEMGRMS amplitude for high-pass filter at 100-450Hz was substantial (30Hz/2mm ICC of 0.90; 40Hz/4mm ICC of 0.73) for the 30Hz/2mm S-WBV and moderate (ICC = 0.73) for the 40/4mm S-WBV. The ICCs for mean and median sEMG frequency ICCs indicated slight to fair reproducibility (ICC of 0.16 to 0.56). The intraday reliability of the strongest MVC contraction and average MVC turned out substantial (ICC = 0.91–0.98). The interday reliability coefficients of the strongest MVC contraction and average MVCs were 0.91 and 0.82, respectively. Concluded, the intraday reliability proved satisfactory for all variables; however, the interday comparison showed sufficient ICC levels only for the mean amplitude. We therefore recommend this parameter should be used when analyzing PFM sEMG recorded during vibration. ICCs of the mean and median frequency for both signal processing methods were indicative of insufficient reliability and did not reach the threshold for usefulness. Our study showed similar reliability of PFM sEMG during S-WBV in case of the two filtering methods used.
Trustworthiness appraisals of faces wearing a surgical mask during the Covid-19 pandemic in Germany: An experimental study
Authors: Biermann Miriam , Schulze Anna , Unterseher Franziska , Atanasova Konstantina , Watermann Paulina , Krause-Utz Annegret , Stahlberg Dagmar , Bohus Martin , Lis Stefanie
Published: May 2021

Background

During the Covid-19 pandemic, the negative effects of wearing a mouth-nose cover (MNC) on interpersonal functioning have been discussed in public media but empirical studies on how wearing MNCs affect social judgements are sparse. In the present study, we investigated the effects of MNCs on trustworthiness appraisals, the influence of changes due to MNCs in evaluating joy, and the relationship between a social-cognitive appraisal bias and a participant’s characteristics.

Methods

All participants (N= 165) judged the intensity of happiness and trustworthiness in calm facial stimuli presented with and without a surgical mask covering part of the face. We analysed the relationship of changes in judgements evoked by MNCs to participants’ evaluations of MNCs as protective tools and explored their associations with the burden experienced by wearing MNCs, compliance to behaviour recommendations, their risk associated with the pandemic, and their levels of psychological distress.

Results

Overall, calm facial stimuli covered with MNCs were evaluated as less trustworthy and, to an even stronger extent, less happy than uncovered facial stimuli. However, participants varied in whether they showed a negative or positive evaluation of faces with MNCs; the negative bias was stronger in those participants who attributed lower protective potential to MNCs, experienced a higher burden while wearing MNCs, wore MNCs less often, and experienced a higher level of psychological distress.

Conclusions

A negative bias in trustworthiness appraisals of faces with a positive emotional expression covered by MNCs is linked to a participant’s evaluation of MNCs as inefficient and burdening and their experience of high psychological distress.
Delivery of selenium using chitosan nanoparticles: Synthesis, characterization, and antioxidant and growth effects in Nile tilapia (Orechromis niloticus)
Authors: Araujo Juliana M. , Fortes-Silva Rodrigo , Pola Cícero C. , Yamamoto Fernando Y. , Gatlin Delbert M. , Gomes Carmen L.
Published: May 2021

This study aimed to elucidate the effects of selenium-loaded chitosan nanoparticles used as a dietary supplement on Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) antioxidant and growth responses. First, chitosan-based nanoparticles containing selenium (Se) were synthesized using the ionotropic gelation method and their physicochemical characteristics, controlled release profile, and antioxidant activity properties were investigated. Thereafter, the effects on glutathione peroxidase and antioxidant activities (by radical scavenging activity), growth, and whole-body composition of Nile tilapia were evaluated when they were fed with Se-loaded chitosan nanoparticles and compared with other selenium dietary supplements. Se-loaded chitosan nanoparticles showed high entrapment efficiency (87%), spherical shape, smooth surface, and broad size distribution. The controlled release of Se consisted of an initial burst followed by a gradual release over 48 h. Se-loaded nanoparticles presented significantly higher antioxidant activity compared to free Se. A 60-day feeding trial was conducted to compare the effects of supplementing different dietary Se sources, including selenomethionine (as organic source), sodium selenite (as inorganic source), and Se-loaded chitosan nanoparticles (Se-Nano and Se-Nano x1.5) on antioxidant and growth responses of Nile tilapia. A basal diet without Se supplementation was used as the control. The dietary supplementations with different Se sources (free and encapsulated selenium) lead to significant improvements in final weight and feed efficiency of Nile tilapia fingerlings. However, dietary treatments did not affect whole-body protein and lipid content. Diets containing Se-Nano and Se-Nano x1.5 were more effective than sodium selenite and selenomethionine in preventing oxidative stress and improving antioxidant activity in Nile tilapia. Overall, Se-loaded nanoparticles presented a great potential as an efficient source for delivering dietary Se to Nile tilapia, directly affecting the growth performance, feed efficiency, oxidative stress, and antioxidant activity of this species.
A piaci irracionalitás vállalatkormányzásra gyakorolt hatása
Authors: Bedő Zsolt
Published: May 2021

A pénzügyi irodalomban vita folyik a tőkepiacok hatékonyságáról, más szóval arról, hogy az aktuális árfolyamok tükrözik-e az éppen piacon jelenlevő összes információt, tehát megegyeznek-e a kibocsátó vállalat fundamentális értékével. Jelen cikk a részvényt kibocsátó vállalatvezetőket tekinti racionális szereplőknek, és azt állítja, hogy a vállalatvezetők az időleges piaci racionalitást kihasználva vissza tudnak élni az információtöbbletből adódó pozíciójukkal. Azzal, hogy a vállalatvezetők a piac manipulálásával, más szóval piacidőzítéssel élnek, esetlegesen megsértik a tulajdonosok hosszú távú érdekeit. Az érdeksérelem, tulajdonos és vezető nexusában, a vállalatkormányzás kompetenciája, melyet a cikk felvet és megoldásaként az információáramlás javítását, valamint a transzparencia növelését ajánlja.
Place image and place branding : What the data tells us
Authors: Papadopoulos Nicolas , Butt Irfan
Published: May 2021

Of the two co-authors of this article, the first has led a long-term research program and participated in a large number of additional studies on these issues, involving numerous co-researchers in various countries, and the second is a newer lead member of the team that is working on the next wave of research in this field. This international group has studied place images and their effects since the early 1980s, and place branding since it emerged some 15 years ago. During this period, more than 80 studies have been carried out, resulting in over 100 publications arising from both conceptual as well as field research with over 22,000 consumers, investors, tourists, and others in almost 25 countries. After highlighting the nature and importance of this area as a field of practice and study, the goal of this article is to summarize key findings, and draw implications from, this research program.
Abdominal Pain and Depression, Not Bowel Habits, Predict Health Care Utilization in Patients With Functional Bowel Disorders
Authors: Yu Vanessa , Ballou Sarah , Hassan Rifu , Singh Prashant , Shah Eric , Rangan Vikram , Iturrino Johanna , Nee Judy , Lembo Anthony
Published: May 2021

INTRODUCTION:

Patients with disorders of gut-brain interaction (DGBIs) are high users of health care. Past studies exploring predictors of utilization have lacked patient-level clinical data. The aim of the current study is to identify demographic, clinical, and psychological predictors of health care utilization in patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), functional constipation (FC), and functional diarrhea (FDr).

METHODS:

Consecutive new patients diagnosed with IBS, FC, and FDr (using Rome IV criteria) completed questionnaires assessing health care utilization as well as clinical and psychological symptoms. Health care utilization was assessed using a 13-item measure inquiring about the previous 6 months. Patient-Reported Outcome Measures Information System (PROMIS) was used to assess severity of abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhea, anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbance.

RESULTS:

Of the 507 patients diagnosed with IBS, FC, or FDr, 434 completed the health care utilization questionnaire (mean age of 44 years, 79.5% female, and 73.5% IBS). In the final multivariable models, more severe abdominal pain and higher depression scores were significantly associated with increased utilization of (i) total outpatient visits, (ii) outpatient visits for gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms, and (iii) number of medications for GI symptoms. More severe abdominal pain was also significantly predictive of GI-related emergency department visits. Altered bowel habits were not consistent predictors of health care utilization.

DISCUSSION:

Severity of abdominal pain and depressive symptoms, but not bowel habits, is a primary driver of increased care-seeking behavior in patients with IBS, FC, and FDr.
Features of hyperandrogenism in men
Authors: Filatova V. A. , Rozhivanov R. V.
Published: May 2021

BACKGROUND: Today the problem of hyperandrogenism in women is a widely studied and discussed while same issue in relation to men is barely raised. In clinical practice, hyperandrogenism can be the cause of a number of diseases.AIM: Provide characterization the variations of physiological hyperandrogenism in men.MATERIALS AND METHODS: Сontinuous cross-sectional study of 100 men with hyperandrogenism. The study assessed the volume and structure of the prostate, the volume of the testicles; the levels of luteinizing hormone (LH), total testosterone, sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) were determined with further calculation of the level of free testosterone according to Vermeullen, and dihydrotestosterone (DHT). Based on the results of the analysis of the hormonal status of patients with hyperandrogenism, 4 groups of patients were formed: 1-patients with increased total testosterone and SHBG levels; 2-patients with elevated total testosterone levels and normal SHBG levels; 3-patients with an increased level of total testosterone, DHT with a normal level of SHBG; 4-patients with an increased level of DHT with normal levels of total testosterone and SHBG. The difference between groups of patients was determined, a p-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant.RESULTS: The age and volume of the prostate in group 1 patients were statistically significantly higher than in the other groups. This group, despite the high level of total testosterone, was not characterized by complaints of acne. Group 2 patients complained of acne more often, but the prevalence of this symptom even in this group was statistically significantly lower than in group 3 patients. At the same time, the frequency of occurrence of alopecia was statistically significantly lower in group 2 than in patients of both groups 3 and 4. Patients of group 3 had the most striking clinical manifestations of hyperandrogenism. Group 4 was characterized by alopecia.CONCLUSION: An increase of androgen levels can be detected at any age. At the same time, in men of the older age group, an increase in the level of total testosterone may be due to an increase in the secretion of SHBG and not be accompanied by an increase in the level of free testosterone. In young patients, the clinical manifestations of hyperandrogenism may differ: patients with elevated DHT levels are characterized by androgenic alopecia; acne is common in men with elevated total and free testosterone levels, and increased DHT exacerbates the problem.
Ce qu’être avocat communiste signifie
Authors: Tonneau Jean-Philippe
Published: May 2021

L’objectif de notre article est de saisir la manière dont les avocats communistes articulent leur profession et leur engagement. L’idée défendue est que cette articulation dépend d’une part des propres trajectoires politiques et profes­sionnelles des avocats communistes et d’autre part des configurations historiques du Parti communiste Français (PCF). Deux générations d’avocats sont considérées, celle ayant adhéré au PCF avant la Deuxième Guerre mondiale et étant entrée au Barreau à la Libération, et celle qui lui succède, entrée au PCF et au Barreau après la guerre. La deuxième génération comprend les fondateurs du Syndicat des Avocats de France (SAF). Créé en 1973, le SAF marque la volonté du Parti de compter au Barreau. Plus encore, il participe d’une redéfinition de l’engagement des avocats communistes. L’article aborde le monde des avocats communistes dans cette nouvelle configuration puis se focalise sur la création du SAF. Les relations entre le Syndicat et le Parti nous renseignent sur le rôle qu’entend donner dans ces années le PCF aux avocats. Ces relations ne résistent pas à la fin de la configuration d’ouverture du PCF, des tensions entre les deux organisations favorisent l’autonomisation du SAF du PCF tandis que des évènements nationaux et internationaux participent du désengagement communiste des fondateurs.
A metodologia ativa POGIL para a compreensão conceitual do equilíbrio químico no ensino médio
Authors: Pereira Luiz Fernando , Barroso Marcia Teixeira , Oliveira Fernando José Volpi Eusébio
Published: May 2021

O equilíbrio químico é aludido pela literatura como um dos temas mais difíceis de ser abordado no ensino médio. As dificuldades inerentes à compreensão conceitual do equilíbrio químico têm sido objeto de investigação de diversos pesquisadores, nos mais variados contextos. Analisamos aqui os resultados de uma intervenção pedagógica fundamentada na metodologia ativa de ensino POGIL – Process Oriented Guided Inquiry Learning e o seu impacto na construção de conceitos científicos relacionados ao equilíbrio químico, com ênfase nos aspectos dinâmicos e reacionais. A intervenção, caracterizada como pesquisa qualitativa, foi realizada com estudantes de uma escola estadual pública do Brasil e mediada por um aluno de mestrado profissional. Utilizou-se como método de coleta de dados a observação participante e como método de análise de dados a análise de conteúdo. Os resultados foram avaliados por meio da triangulação de dados entre os instrumentos de coleta da pesquisa: atividades POGIL, avaliação de aprendizagem, questionários e notas de campo. Analisamos na perspectiva do sócio interacionismo e constatamos que os estudantes se tornaram mais participativos durante a aplicação da metodologia POGIL, e em sua maioria foram capazes de melhorar a compreensão dos conceitos científicos relacionados a uma reação química no estado de equilíbrio.
Una progresión de aprendizaje sobre ideas básicas entre Física y Astronomía
Authors: Giordano Enrica
Published: May 2021

Aunque la gente parece estar motivada de forma natural hacia el aprendizaje de la Astronomía, muchos, incluso en los niveles educativos altos, muestran dificultades para la explicación de los fenómenos astronómicos de cada día. A pesar de haber cursado años de estudio, las personas suelen tener una información fragmentada de los hechos astronómicos básicos, tales como alternancia día-noche, estaciones y zonas climáticas, fases de la luna, eclipses, entre otros. En general, en los discursos de las personas hay carencia de una panorámica general y coherente sobre dichos fenómenos de la naturaleza y la forma como influyen en la vida de cada quien. En este trabajo presentamos un resumen de algunas de las dificultades más comunes para el aprendizaje de la Astronomía básica y mostramos algunos de los resultados que ha presentado la literatura, en donde se proponen estrategias para superarlos. Luego describimos una propuesta para una progresión de aprendizaje sobre conceptos básicos entre Física y Astronomía. La propuesta se basa en una larga experimentación de campo con alumnos de 3 a 14 años, así como con profesores y ciudadanos.
Prospects for the Development of Primary Energy Markets in the Asia-Pacific Region: The Potential Place for Russian Resources
Authors:   Economic Research Institute FEB RAS, Dyomina Olga
Published: May 2021

The current situation in the oil, natural gas and coal markets in the Asia-Pacific region has been analyzed by the author. It is shown that the potential for increasing the share of Russian energy resources may be due to the redistribution of the shares of the main suppliers as oil imports diversify, primarily in Japan and the Republic of Korea; in the natural gas market – increasing the volume of pipeline supplies of natural gas to China in accordance with the current long-term contract and the redistribution of Indonesia’s share in the market; in the coal market – the redistribution of Indonesia’s share due to the advantages in coal quality. Price and infrastructure constraints for increasing the supply of Russian energy resources to the Asia-Pacific region have been noted, too
A New Stage of Coordination of Scientific and Economic Research Problems of the Development of the Far East
Authors:   Economic Research Institute FEB RAS, Minakir Pavel , Prokapalo Olga ,   Economic Research Institute FEB RAS
Published: May 2021

The relationship of research teams of different administrative and departmental subordination in multidisciplinary scientific research is considered. It is noted that after the reform of the Russian Academy of Sciences in 2013, the coordination research scheme practically collapsed. It proposes a solution to the problem of consolidating research potential on the basis of cooperation of scientific, educational and corporate structures aimed at studying economic problems and laws of the Russian Far East. The role of the Economic Research Institute FEB RAS in the creation of a consortium uniting research teams and organizations leading fundamental and applied research on the problems of economic, social, and scientific-technological development of the Far East in the system of national and international economics is shown
Development of the Northern Sea Route and the Growth of Activity of the PRC in the Arctic As a Prerequisite for Strengthening the Transport Framework of the Far East
Authors:   Economic Research Institute FEB RAS, Leonov Sergey , Zaostrovskikh Elena ,   Economic Research Institute FEB RAS
Published: May 2021

The active melting of the Arctic ice has increased interest in the prospects for the development of the Northern Sea Route not only in Russia, but also in China. The paper analyzes the state, problems, and prospects for the development of the Russian Northern Sea Route, considers the main provisions of China’s Arctic strategy. It is shown that the growth of China’s activity in the Arctic, superimposed on China’s desire to optimize logistics ties with Western Europe, can stimulate the formation of the international transport corridor «Northern Transit», which will attract up to 180 billion rubles of investments in the Far East within the framework of infrastructure projects, and will contribute to the growth of its economy and strengthening the transport framework of the Far East
Structural and Optical Properties of (PVA/PVP:Sr2NO3) Nanocomposites
Authors: Al-Kateb Doaa E. , Abdulridha Ali R.
Published: May 2021

In this study preparing and investigating of the (PVA/PVP:Sr2NO3) nanocomposites films by using casting method with different concentration of Sr2NO3 as (0, 1, 3, 5, and 7 wt. %). Optical properties obtained by UV-Vis spectrometer, OM and FTIR spectra have been revealed in this study, the absorbance increased by increasing of Sr2NO3 nanoparticles concentrations, the energy-gap (allowed and forbidden) transitions decreased by increasing of the nanoparticles concentration.
An immersive Arabic language course in Cairo moves online
Authors: Salem Heba
Published: May 2021

This chapter describes the my experience as the instructor for a course
rooted in community based learning theory that was forced to move online in
spring, 2020, due to the novel coronavirus pandemic. The course, titled
‘CASA Without Borders’, allows Arabic language students in the Center for
Arabic Study Abroad (CASA) program at The American University in Cairo (AUC)
to leave the university environment and serve the community, while also
benefiting from the experience both linguistically and culturally. This
course was disrupted by the students’ mandatory return to the US from Cairo
as a result of the COVID-19 outbreak, and continued remotely in an online
format. This chapter describes the CASA program and explains both the
purpose of the CASA Without Borders course and its significance to CASA
students and to the program. It also describes and reflects upon my
experience of continuing the course remotely during the ongoing
pandemic.
Reflection on digital language teaching, learning, and assessment in
times of crisis: a view from Italy
Authors: Freddi Maria
Published: May 2021

This chapter is a reflective account of the author’s experience as a
teacher of English at the University of Pavia during the first wave of the
SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. It considers the design and delivery of an English for
architecture and construction engineering course as well as the assessment
stage of a text analysis course. It proceeds by presenting and discussing
the decisions implemented as a consequence of the crisis situation and
reflects on principles of English language teaching, learning, and
assessment in general and English for Specific Purposes (ESP) in particular.
In doing so, it addresses the book project rationale as an opportunity to
reflect on the adjustments made to various planning and design factors
informing language education during the health crisis and thought to be
generalisable to language teaching, learning, and assessment in the global
digital world. It concludes with thoughts on what the future of digital
language teaching, learning, and assessment could look like.