bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synacthen Stimulation Test Following Unilateral Adrenalectomy Needs to Be Interpreted With Caution
Authors: Zaman Shamaila , Almazrouei Raya , Sam Amir H. , DiMarco Aimee N. , Todd Jeannie F. , Palazzo Fausto F. , Tan Tricia , Dhillo Waljit S. , Meeran Karim , Wernig Florian
Published: May 2021

Background

Cortisol levels in response to stress are highly variable. Baseline and stimulated cortisol levels are commonly used to determine adrenal function following unilateral adrenalectomy. We report the results of synacthen stimulation testing following unilateral adrenalectomy in a tertiary referral center.

Methods

Data were collected retrospectively for 36 patients who underwent synacthen stimulation testing one day post unilateral adrenalectomy. None of the patients had clinical signs of hypercortisolism preoperatively. No patient received pre- or intraoperative steroids. Patients with overt Cushing’s syndrome were excluded.

Results

The median age was 58 (31-79) years. Preoperatively, 16 (44%) patients had a diagnosis of pheochromocytoma, 12 (33%) patients had primary aldosteronism and 8 (22%) patients had non-functioning adenomas with indeterminate/atypical imaging characteristics necessitating surgery. Preoperative overnight dexamethasone suppression test results revealed that 6 of 29 patients failed to suppress cortisol to <50 nmol/L. Twenty (56%) patients achieved a stimulated cortisol ≥450 nmol/L at 30 minutes and 28 (78%) at 60 minutes. None of the patients developed clinical adrenal insufficiency necessitating steroid replacement.

Conclusions

Synacthen stimulation testing following unilateral adrenalectomy using standard stimulated cortisol cut-off values would wrongly label many patients adrenally insufficient and may lead to inappropriate prescriptions of steroids to patients who do not need them.
Critical Dependence of Butterflies on a Non-native Host Plant in the Urban Tropics
Authors: Jain Anuj , Zeng Yiwen , Webb Edward L.
Published: May 2021

Increasing urbanization in the tropics has led to the loss of natural habitats and local extirpations and the introduction of non-native plants in urban centers. Non-native plants can have widespread positive and negative ecological implications on native fauna including butterflies. In the small tropical urbanized city-state of Singapore,Aristolochia jackii(Aristolochiaceae), a native host plant of the nationally threatened Common Birdwing(Troides helena)and Common Rose(Pachliopta aristolochiae), is considered extirpated, but their shared non-native host plantAristolochia acuminatais a cultivated ornamental in urban habitat. We conducted systematic surveys from years 2010 to 2014 and collated sighting records from 1999 to 2019 to map the distribution ofT. helenaandP. aristolochiae, and their host plantA. acuminata. We utilized machine learning models (i.e., random forest algorithms) to establish the relationships between various habitat (managed and natural tree cover, waterbody and impervious surface cover) and life-history parameters (minimum distance from the nearest larval host plant and population source derived from expert knowledge) that are associated with the butterfly distributions. Response curves were generated for each species and projected spatially across Singapore’s landscape to estimate occupancy. We found that both butterflies had clustered distributions with a greatly reduced probability of occurrence further away from identified population sources and non-nativeA. acuminata. Both study species had similar spatial niche and similar species occurrence responses though there were differences in habitat preferences and temporal niche. Both species showed positive dependence on managed tree cover (Rose more than Birdwing) but the Birdwing also had high positive dependence on natural tree cover, unlike the Rose. We report novel findings that a non-native host plant can provide positive ecological benefits and critically sustain tropical butterfly populations. While there will be a need to evaluate the full ecological impacts of non-native plantings, we suggest using them as a secondary strategy when re-establishment of the native plants has failed, particularly in highly urbanized tropical landscapes.
Variation in Articular Cartilage Thickness Among Extant Salamanders and Implications for Limb Function in Stem Tetrapods
Authors: Molnar Julia L.
Published: May 2021

The size and shape of articular cartilage in the limbs of extant vertebrates are highly variable, yet they are critical for understanding joint and limb function in an evolutionary context. For example, inferences about unpreserved articular cartilage in early tetrapods have implications for how limb length, joint range of motion, and muscle leverage changed over the tetrapod water-land transition. Extant salamanders, which are often used as functional models for early limbed vertebrates, have much thicker articular cartilage than most vertebrate groups, but the exact proportion of cartilage and how it varies across salamander species is unknown. I aimed to quantify this variation in a sample of 13 salamanders representing a broad range of sizes, modes of life, and genera. Using contrast-enhanced micro-CT, cartilage dimensions and bone length were measured non-destructively in the humerus, radius, ulna, femur, tibia, and fibula of each specimen. Cartilage correction factors were calculated as the combined thickness of the proximal and distal cartilages divided by the length of the bony shaft. Articular cartilage added about 30% to the length of the long bones on average. Cartilage was significantly thicker in aquatic salamanders (42 ± 14% in the humerus and 35 ± 8 in the femur) than in terrestrial salamanders (21 ± 7% in both humerus and femur). There was no consistent relationship between relative cartilage thickness and body size or phylogenetic relatedness. In addition to contributing to limb length, cartilage caps increased the width and breadth of the epiphyses by amounts that varied widely across taxa. To predict the effect of salamander-like cartilage correction factors on muscle leverage, a simplified model of the hindlimb of the Devonian stem tetrapodAcanthostegawas built. In this model, the lever arms of muscles that cross the hip at an oblique angle to the femur was increased by up to six centimeters. Future reconstructions of osteological range of motion and muscle leverage in stem tetrapods and stem amphibians can be made more rigorous by explicitly considering the possible effects of unpreserved cartilage and justifying assumptions based on available data from extant taxa, including aquatic and terrestrial salamanders.
Deep-Phenotyping the Less Severe Spectrum of PIGT Deficiency and Linking the Gene to Myoclonic Atonic Seizures
Authors: Bayat Allan , Pendziwiat Manuela , Obersztyn Ewa , Goldenberg Paula , Zacher Pia , Döring Jan Henje , Syrbe Steffen , Begtrup Amber , Borovikov Artem , Sharkov Artem , Karasińska Aneta , Giżewska Maria , Mitchell Wendy , Morava Eva , Møller Rikke S. , Rubboli Guido
Published: May 2021

The two aims of this study were (i) to describe and expand the phenotypic spectrum of PIGT deficiency in affected individuals harboring the c.1582G>A; p.Val528Met or the c.1580A > G; p.Asn527Ser variant in either homozygous or compound heterozygous state, and (ii) to identify potential genotype-phenotype correlations and any differences in disease severity among individuals with and without the PIGT variants. The existing literature was searched to identify individuals with and without the two variants. A detailed phenotypic assessment was performed of 25 individuals (both novel and previously published) with the two PIGT variants. We compared severity of disease between individuals with and without these PIGT variants. Twenty-four individuals carried the PIGT variant Val528Met in either homozygous or compound heterozygous state, and one individual displayed the Asn527Ser variant in a compound heterozygous state. Disease severity in the individual with the Asn527Ser variant was compatible with that in the individuals harboring the Val528Met variant. While individuals without the Asn527Ser or Val528Met variant had focal epilepsy, profound developmental delay (DD), and risk of premature death, those with either of the two variants had moderate to severe DD and later onset of epilepsy with both focal and generalized seizures. Individuals homozygous for the Val528Met variant generally became seizure-free on monotherapy with antiepileptic drugs, compared to other PIGT individuals who were pharmaco-resistant. Two patients were diagnosed with myoclonic-atonic seizures, and a single patient was diagnosed with eyelid myoclonia. Our comprehensive analysis of this large cohort of previously published and novel individuals with PIGT variants broadens the phenotypical spectrum and shows that both Asn527Ser and Val528Met are associated with a milder phenotype and less severe outcome. Our data show that PIGT is a new candidate gene for myoclonic atonic epilepsy. Our genotype-phenotype correlation will be useful for future genetic counseling. Natural history studies of this mild spectrum of PIGT-related disorder may shed light on hitherto unknown aspects of this rare disorder.
Entering Negotiations: Early-Career Perspectives on the UN Conference of Parties and the Unfolding Climate Crisis
Authors: Ferrer Erica M. , Cavole Leticia M. , Clausnitzer Simona , Dias Daniela F. , Osborne Tashiana C. , Sugla Rishi , Harrison Emma
Published: May 2021

As the pressure to address the climate crisis builds, scientists must walk the line between research and activism. This was apparent at the 2019 United Nations (UN) Framework Convention on Climate Change – Conference of the Parties (UNFCCC – COP), the largest annual meeting to address the climate crisis via supranational policymaking. COP has convened annually since 1995 in effort to establish international agreements for the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, and in 2015, was the launch pad for the UN Paris Climate Agreement (PCA). Here, we present our collective perspective as early-career researchers on COP, an institution that we believe plays a critical role in the future of our oceans. Given the current pledges from signatories to the PCA, Earth is expected to warm ∼3°C by 2100, with the majority of anthropogenic heat content stored throughout the ocean. For this reason, among others, we feel it is crucial for ocean scientists to have a baseline understanding of the negotiations unfolding at COP and within the UNFCCC. We also provide evidence that certain features/structures of COP formalize colonial hierarchies, marginalize certain groups, and threaten to perpetuate the drivers of the environmental crises we all face. Thus, we urge that the future of such gatherings include purposeful and self-reflective acts of restructuring the space they occupy, the solutions they advocate, and the ways in which power is distributed amongst participants. We balance our critique with examples of how this has already been successful at COP, particularly with respect to organizing around ocean-climate issues.
The Stability and Elasticity in Ta-Ti-V Medium-Entropy Alloys Using First-Principles Calculations
Authors: Hu Wenqiang , Pan Min , Huang Zheng , Yang Hongwei , Wu Hao , Pan Liu , Cao Zelin , Zhao Yong
Published: May 2021

Due to the low neutron activity, the high thermal stability, and the good compression strength at elevated temperatures, medium-entropy Ta-Ti-V alloys have the application potential to be used in future nuclear engineering. According to experimental results, a special quasi-random structure (SQS) model and first-principles calculations are used to calculate the structural stability and the elasticity of the ternary single-phase body-centered cubic (BCC) Ta-Ti-V alloys with the compositions Ta24Ti14V16, Ta19Ti17V18, Ta16Ti21V17, Ta22Ti23V9, and Ta18Ti18V18. The mixing energy of five compositions is positive, which indicates that they are unstable at low temperature but stable at high temperature. Meanwhile, we predict the ability of elasticity in those five compositions, and the sequence of bulk modulus is Ta24Ti14V16 > Ta19Ti17V18 > Ta18Ti18V18 > Ta16Ti21V17 > Ta22Ti23V9 and ductility is Ta19Ti17V18 > Ta18Ti18V18 > Ta22Ti23V9 > Ta24Ti14V16 > Ta16Ti21V17. Additionally, the influence of the element content on elastic properties shows that the Ta content will increase the bulk modulus of the alloys, while Ti content decreases the bulk modulus. Higher V and Ti contents are beneficial to ductility, especially the V content. The higher Ta content will sharply reduce the ductility of the alloys. Our calculation has provided further theoretical mechanism for the Ta-Ti-V medium-entropy alloys (MEAs) preparation and development.
A Comprehensive View of Frozen Shoulder: A Mystery Syndrome
Authors: de la Serna Daniel , Navarro-Ledesma Santiago , Alayón Fany , López Elena , Pruimboom Leo
Published: May 2021

Frozen shoulder is a common epidemiological affliction. Data acquired from people who suffer from this type of damage in other joints such as the hip, wrist and ankle also exist; although these syndromes are less common. Treatment for frozen shoulder is primarily physical (physiotherapy, manual therapy), secondary medical (corticosteroid injections) and finally surgical but with limited success. The difficulty in treating this type of condition successfully lies in the lack of knowledge about the risk factors involved and the pathophysiology underlying this mysterious syndrome. This review gives an overview of the current scientific position of frozen shoulder in terms of evolutionary factors, etiology, the different mechanisms of action involved, current treatment options and other possible interventions based on recent discoveries of pathophysiological mechanisms. The overall objective is to clarify several unknown aspects of a syndrome that affects up to 5% of the world's population.
A Novel Encoder-Decoder Knowledge Graph Completion Model for Robot Brain
Authors: Song Yichen , Li Aiping , Tu Hongkui , Chen Kai , Li Chenchen
Published: May 2021

With the rapid development of artificial intelligence, Cybernetics, and other High-tech subject technology, robots have been made and used in increasing fields. And studies on robots have attracted growing research interests from different communities. The knowledge graph can act as the brain of a robot and provide intelligence, to support the interaction between the robot and the human beings. Although the large-scale knowledge graphs contain a large amount of information, they are still incomplete compared with real-world knowledge. Most existing methods for knowledge graph completion focus on entity representation learning. However, the importance of relation representation learning is ignored, as well as the cross-interaction between entities and relations. In this paper, we propose an encoder-decoder model which embeds the interaction between entities and relations, and adds a gate mechanism to control the attention mechanism. Experimental results show that our method achieves better link prediction performance than state-of-the-art embedding models on two benchmark datasets, WN18RR and FB15k-237.
Adaptive Extreme Edge Computing for Wearable Devices
Authors: Covi Erika , Donati Elisa , Liang Xiangpeng , Kappel David , Heidari Hadi , Payvand Melika , Wang Wei
Published: May 2021

Wearable devices are a fast-growing technology with impact on personal healthcare for both society and economy. Due to the widespread of sensors in pervasive and distributed networks, power consumption, processing speed, and system adaptation are vital in future smart wearable devices. The visioning and forecasting of how to bring computation to the edge in smart sensors have already begun, with an aspiration to provide adaptive extreme edge computing. Here, we provide a holistic view of hardware and theoretical solutions toward smart wearable devices that can provide guidance to research in this pervasive computing era. We propose various solutions for biologically plausible models for continual learning in neuromorphic computing technologies for wearable sensors. To envision this concept, we provide a systematic outline in which prospective low power and low latency scenarios of wearable sensors in neuromorphic platforms are expected. We successively describe vital potential landscapes of neuromorphic processors exploiting complementary metal-oxide semiconductors (CMOS) and emerging memory technologies (e.g., memristive devices). Furthermore, we evaluate the requirements for edge computing within wearable devices in terms of footprint, power consumption, latency, and data size. We additionally investigate the challenges beyond neuromorphic computing hardware, algorithms and devices that could impede enhancement of adaptive edge computing in smart wearable devices.
Conceptual Analogies Between Multi-Scale Feeding and Feedback Cycles in Supermassive Black Hole and Cancer Environments
Authors: Santoni Matteo , Tombesi Francesco , Cimadamore Alessia , Montironi Rodolfo , Piva Francesco
Published: May 2021

Adopting three physically-motivated scales (“micro” – “meso” – “macro”, which refer to mpc – kpc – Mpc, respectively) is paramount for achieving a unified theory of multiphase active galactic nuclei feeding and feedback, and it represents a keystone for astrophysical simulations and observations in the upcoming years. In order to promote this multi-scale idea, we have decided to adopt an interdisciplinary approach, exploring the possible conceptual similarities between supermassive black hole feeding and feedback cycles and the dynamics occurring in human cancer microenvironment.
Adaptive Magnetic Resonance-Guided Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy: The Next Step in the Treatment of Renal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Keller Brian , Bruynzeel Anna M. E. , Tang Chad , Swaminath Anand , Kerkmeijer Linda , Chu William
Published: May 2021

Adaptive MR-guided radiotherapy (MRgRT) is a new treatment paradigm and its role as a non-invasive treatment option for renal cell carcinoma is evolving. The early clinical experience to date shows that real-time plan adaptation based on the daily MRI anatomy can lead to improved target coverage and normal tissue sparing. Continued technological innovations will further mitigate the challenges of organ motion and enable more advanced treatment adaptation, and potentially lead to enhanced oncologic outcomes and preservation of renal function. Future applications look promising to make a positive clinical impact and further the personalization of radiotherapy in the management of renal cell carcinoma.
Anlotinib Combined With Chemotherapy for Recurrence of Pulmonary Sarcomatoid Cancer Previously Surgically Treated: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Li Jing , Liang Hejun , He Jian , Sui Xin , Qin Yanru
Published: May 2021

Background

Pulmonary sarcomatoid cancer (PSC) is a very rare subtype of poorly differentiated non-small-lung-cancer (NSCLC) with very poor prognosis. To date, the optimal treatment for PSC has not been elucidated, and the efficacy of anlotinib in PSC has not been previously reported.

Case Presentation

A 77-year-old male patient was admitted with cough, expectoration, and blood-stained sputum for one month. CT showed a soft mass in the inferior lobe of the right lung, which was diagnosed as spindle cell carcinoma (PSC) by histopathology. A videothoracoscopic right lower lobectomy and mediastinal lymph node dissection procedure was performed on the patient, but the disease recurred one month after surgery. The patient was then given first-line chemotherapy with gemcitabine and albumin paclitaxel for one cycle, but the disease continued to progress. The patient then received anlotinib combined with second-line chemotherapy (dacarbazine and cis-platinum) for six cycles, and the response reached complete remission (CR). Then the patient was given maintenance therapy with anlotinib alone, and the disease was still stable at the most recent reexamination. Progression-free survival (PFS) has lasted for more than two years, without any intolerable toxicity.

Conclusion

This postoperative recurrent PSC patient achieved significant clinical benefits with anlotinib treatment. Our findings provide direct evidence of the efficacy of anlotinib in PSC. More studies are needed to confirm our observation.
Three vs. Four Cycles of Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy for Localized Muscle Invasive Bladder Cancer Undergoing Radical Cystectomy: A Retrospective Multi-Institutional Analysis
Authors: Ferro Matteo , de Cobelli Ottavio , Musi Gennaro , Lucarelli Giuseppe , Terracciano Daniela , Pacella Daniela , Muto Tommaso , Porreca Angelo , Busetto Gian Maria , Del Giudice Francesco , Soria Francesco , Gontero Paolo , Cantiello Francesco , Damiano Rocco , Crocerossa Fabio , Farhan Abdal Rahman Abu , Autorino Riccardo , Vartolomei Mihai Dorin , Muto Matteo , Marchioni Michele , Mari Andrea , Scafuri Luca , Minervini Andrea , Longo Nicola , Chiancone Francesco , Perdona Sisto , De Placido Pietro , Verde Antonio , Catellani Michele , Luzzago Stefano , Mistretta Francesco Alessandro , Ditonno Pasquale , Caputo Vincenzo Francesco , Battaglia Michele , Zamboni Stefania , Antonelli Alessandro , Greco Francesco , Russo Giorgio Ivan , Hurle Rodolfo , Crisan Nicolae , Manfredi Matteo , Porpiglia Francesco , Di Lorenzo Giuseppe , Crocetto Felice , Buonerba Carlo
Published: May 2021

Background

Three or four cycles of cisplatin-based chemotherapy is the standard neoadjuvant treatment prior to cystectomy in patients with muscle-invasive bladder cancer. Although NCCN guidelines recommend 4 cycles of cisplatin-gemcitabine, three cycles are also commonly administered in clinical practice. In this multicenter retrospective study, we assessed a large and homogenous cohort of patients with urothelial bladder cancer (UBC) treated with three or four cycles of neoadjuvant cisplatin-gemcitabine followed by radical cystectomy, in order to explore whether three vs. four cycles were associated with different outcomes.

Methods

Patients with histologically confirmed muscle-invasive UBC included in this retrospective study had to be treated with either 3 (cohort A) or 4 (cohort B) cycles of cisplatin-gemcitabine as neoadjuvant therapy before undergoing radical cystectomy with lymphadenectomy. Outcomes including pathologic downstaging to non-muscle invasive disease, pathologic complete response (defined as absence of disease -ypT0), overall- and cancer-specific- survival as well as time to recurrence were compared between cohorts A vs. B.

Results

A total of 219 patients treated at 14 different high-volume Institutions were included in this retrospective study. Patients who received 3 (cohort A) vs. 4 (cohort B) cycles of neoadjuvant cisplatin-gemcitabine were 160 (73,1%) vs. 59 (26,9%).At univariate analysis, the number of neoadjuvant cycles was not associated with either pathologic complete response, pathologic downstaging, time to recurrence, cancer specific, and overall survival. Of note, patients in cohort B vs. A showed a worse non-cancer specific overall survival at univariate analysis (HR= 2.53; 95 CI= 1.05 - 6.10; p=0.046), although this finding was not confirmed at multivariate analysis.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that 3 cycles of cisplatin-gemcitabine may be equally effective, with less long-term toxicity, compared to 4 cycles in the neoadjuvant setting.
Chemical Composition, Diuretic, and Antityrosinase Activity of Traditionally Used Romanian Cerasorum stipites
Authors: Babotă Mihai , Voştinaru Oliviu , Păltinean Ramona , Mihali Cosmin , Dias Maria Inês , Barros Lillian , Ferreira Isabel C. F. R. , Mocan Andrei , Crişan Ovidiu , Nicula Cristina , Crişan Gianina
Published: May 2021

Cherry stems (CS) represent a by-product intensively used in Eastern European countries as a traditional remedy for urinary tract disorders. Ethnopharmacological evidences sustain the use of CS as aqueous preparations (infusion and decoction), but few data were previously reported about phytochemical profile and pharmacological potential of CS hydroalcoholic extracts. In this regard, we aimed to evaluate the phenolic profile, in vitro antioxidant and tyrosinase inhibitory potential, and in vivo diuretic activity of 70% hydroethanolic cherry stems extract and cherry stems decoction (CSD). LC-DAD-ESI/MSn analysis revealed the presence of flavonoid-type compounds as main constituents for both preparations, especially flavanones (naringenin glycosides). Antioxidant activity evaluated through DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP methods was superior for cherry stems extract, probably due to the presence of phenolic-derived compounds in higher amounts than CSD. On the other hand, tyrosinase inhibitory potential and diuretic effect exerted by CSD were stronger, highlighting that other types of hydrophilic secondary metabolites are responsible for this bioactivity. Overall, our findings indicate that CS preparations could be used as promising mild diuretic agents and encourage further investigations regarding the correlation between their chemical composition and bioactive potential.
Antisense Tissue Factor Oligodeoxynucleotides Protected Diethyl Nitrosamine/Carbon Tetrachloride-Induced Liver Fibrosis Through Toll Like Receptor4-Tissue Factor-Protease Activated Receptor1 Pathway
Authors: Shouman Maha M. , Abdelsalam Rania M. , Tawfick Mahmoud M. , Kenawy Sanaa A. , El-Naa Mona M.
Published: May 2021

Tissue factor (TF) is a blood coagulation factor that has several roles in many non-coagulant pathways involved in different pathological conditions such as angiogenesis, inflammation and fibrogenesis. Coagulation and inflammation are crosslinked with liver fibrosis where protease-activated receptor1 (PAR1) and toll-like receptor4 (TLR4) play a key role. Antisense oligodeoxynucleotides are strong modulators of gene expression. In the present study, antisense TF oligodeoxynucleotides (TFAS) was evaluated in treating liver fibrosis via suppression of TF gene expression. Liver fibrosis was induced in rats by a single administration of N-diethyl nitrosamine (DEN, 200 mg/kg; i. p.) followed by carbon tetrachloride (CCl4, 3 ml/kg; s. c.) once weekly for 6 weeks. Following fibrosis induction, liver TF expression was significantly upregulated along with liver enzymes activities and liver histopathological deterioration. Alpha smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and transforming growth factor-1beta (TGF-1β) expression, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and hydroxyproline content and collagen deposition were significantly elevated in the liver. Blocking of TF expression by TFAS injection (2.8 mg/kg; s. c.) once weekly for 6 weeks significantly restored liver enzymes activities and improved histopathological features along with decreasing the elevated α-SMA, TGF-1β, TNF-α, hydroxyproline and collagen. Moreover, TFAS decreased the expression of both PAR1 and TLR4 that were induced by liver fibrosis. In conclusion, we reported that blockage of TF expression by TFAS improved inflammatory and fibrotic changes associated with CCl4+DEN intoxication. In addition, we explored the potential crosslink between the TF, PAR1 and TLR4 in liver fibrogenesis. These findings offer a platform on which recovery from liver fibrosis could be mediated through targeting TF expression.
Importance of Viscosity Contrast for the Motion of Erythrocytes in Microcapillaries
Authors: Dasanna Anil K. , Mauer Johannes , Gompper Gerhard , Fedosov Dmitry A.
Published: May 2021

The dynamics and deformation of red blood cells (RBCs) in microcirculation affect the flow resistance and transport properties of whole blood. One of the key properties that can alter RBC dynamics in flow is the contrast λ (or ratio) of viscosities between RBC cytosol and blood plasma. Here, we study the dependence of RBC shape and dynamics on the viscosity contrast in tube flow, using mesoscopic hydrodynamics simulations. State diagrams of different RBC dynamical states, including tumbling cells, parachutes, and tank-treading slippers, are constructed for various viscosity contrasts and wide ranges of flow rates and tube diameters (or RBC confinements). Despite similarities in the classification of RBC behavior for different viscosity contrasts, there are notable differences in the corresponding state diagrams. In particular, the region of parachutes is significantly larger for λ = 1 in comparison to λ = 5. Furthermore, the viscosity contrast strongly affects the tumbling-to-slipper transition, thus modifying the regions of occurrence of these states as a function of flow rate and RBC confinement. Also, an increase in cytosol viscosity leads to a reduction in membrane tension induced by flow stresses. Physical mechanisms that determine these differences in RBC dynamical states as a function of λ are discussed.
Conceptions of Happiness Mediate the Relationship Between the Dark Triad and Well-Being
Authors: Joshanloo Mohsen
Published: May 2021

This study explored the associations between the Dark Triad traits (i.e., Machiavellianism, psychopathy, and narcissism) and mental well-being in a Korean adult sample (N = 1,177). The role of the conceptions of happiness as mediators of these associations was also investigated. Eight conceptions of happiness (e.g., fragility of happiness and eudaimonism), 3 dimensions of hedonic well-being (e.g., life satisfaction), and 2 dimensions of eudaimonic well-being (e.g., psychological well-being) were included in the study. The results showed that Machiavellianism and psychopathy were negatively and narcissism was positively associated with well-being. The pattern of associations between the dark triad and conceptions of happiness showed that Machiavellianism and psychopathy were associated with valuing personal happiness but also considering it to be out of one’s control, and to have negative consequences when achieved. People high on narcissism endorsed generally positive notions of happiness. Results showed that conceptions of happiness functioned as partial mediators in the relationships between the dark triad and well-being. Hence, it seems that the dark triad traits provide a context for the formation of certain beliefs surrounding the nature and value of well-being, which per se influence experienced levels of well-being.
New Images for Old Symbols: Meanings That Children Give to a Traditional Game
Authors: García-Monge Alfonso , Rodríguez-Navarro Henar , Bores-García Daniel
Published: May 2021

Traditional games are considered agents of enculturation. This article explores the procedure to access the cultural meanings transmitted in a traditional game. The goal is to understand what children aged 6–11 make of the game called ‘the chained bear’ and to compare the meanings retrieved with those of different traditional versions of the game. For such a purpose, through an exploratory cross-sectional study, cartoons depicting people playing the game were exhibited and viewers (n = 359; age range: 6–11; Mean age = 8.79; SD = 1.81) were asked to interpret them as a drama play, as well as contributing a title, a plot and saying how they would name the characters. The results show that, beyond the individual images that each child created in their mind, most of them coincided in stories about harassment and defense and theft and protection. These plots match those of the ludic tradition, showing that the actions evoke different pictures to each individual, but share common cultural meanings in turn. The study shows a procedure to access the meanings that traditional games transmit and confirms that games contain pieces of culture, which makes them agents of enculturation.
Repeated Dosing of Ketamine in the Forced Swim Test: Are Multiple Shots Better Than One?
Authors: Weston Ridge G. , Fitzgerald Paul J. , Watson Brendon O.
Published: May 2021

The anesthetic drug ketamine has been successfully repurposed as an antidepressant in human subjects. This represents a breakthrough for clinical psychopharmacology, because unlike monoaminergic antidepressants, ketamine has rapid onset, including in Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) that is resistant to conventional pharmacotherapy. This rapid therapeutic onset suggests a unique mechanism of action, which continues to be investigated in reverse translational studies in rodents. A large fraction of rodent and human studies of ketamine have focused on the effects of only a single administration of ketamine, which presents a problem because MDD is typically a persistent illness that may require ongoing treatment with this drug to prevent relapse. Here we review behavioral studies in rodents that used repeated dosing of ketamine in the forced swim test (FST), with an eye toward eventual mechanistic studies. A subset of these studies carried out additional experiments with only a single injection of ketamine for comparison, and several studies used chronic psychosocial stress, where stress is a known causative factor in some cases of MDD. We find that repeated ketamine can in some cases paradoxically produce increases in immobility in the FST, especially at high doses such as 50 or 100 mg/kg. Several studies however provide evidence that repeated dosing is more effective than a single dose at decreasing immobility, including behavioral effects that last longer. Collectively, this growing literature suggests that repeated dosing of ketamine has prominent depression-related effects in rodents, and further investigation may help optimize the use of this drug in humans experiencing MDD.
Vitamin Nature: How Coronavirus Disease 2019 Has Highlighted Factors Contributing to the Frequency of Nature Visits in Flanders, Belgium
Authors: Lenaerts Aline , Heyman Sofie , De Decker Annelies , Lauwers Laura , Sterckx Ann , Remmen Roy , Bastiaens Hilde , Keune Hans
Published: May 2021

Visiting nature is positively associated with physical and mental well-being. The role of nature became more pronounced during the coronavirus outbreak in the spring of 2020. Countries all over the world implemented confinement measures to reduce the transmission of the virus. These included but were not limited to the cancelation of public events, schools, and non-essential businesses and the prohibition of non-essential travels. However, going outside to exercise was recommended by the Belgian government. During this period, we conducted an online survey to determine if people visit nature more frequently than before and to identify the factors that contribute to this. The results are based on data from 11,352 participants in Flanders, Belgium. With the use of a bivariate and multiple regression analysis, results indicate that people visit nature more frequently than before and that nature helped to maintain social relationships during the coronavirus period. Gardens were reported to be the most popular place, followed by parks. More than half of the people experienced nature in a more positive way, and the belief that nature visits are important for general health increased. In addition, we found a positive association between nature visits and home satisfaction, as well as a positive association with subjective mental and physical health. Lastly, we identified several demographic factors contributing to the frequency of nature visits such as age, gender, and socioeconomic status. Our findings indicate the importance of nature visits for general well-being and highlight the need for nearby green infrastructure.
Double Empathy: Why Autistic People Are Often Misunderstood
Authors: Crompton Catherine J. , DeBrabander Kilee , Heasman Brett , Milton Damian , Sasson Noah J.
Published: May 2021

Autism affects how someone makes sense of the world around them. About 1–2% of people are autistic. You might have an autistic classmate or family member, or maybe you are autistic. Autistic people might communicate differently than people who are not autistic. This means that it can be difficult for other people to understand what autistic people are trying to say or what they mean. We tend to think that people who are not autistic might be more successful at understanding other people, but in fact, autistic people may be better understood by other autistic people. We will examine and explain some research that has explored how autistic and non-autistic people communicate with each other and explore how this research fits with a theory called the double empathy problem. Understanding what makes interaction comfortable and easy for different people can help us all understand each other better.
Los superalimentos como tendencia del mercado: Un análisis de las oportunidades para las empresas exportadoras
Authors: Encalada Añazco Richard Fabricio , Peñaherrera Vásquez Dayana Lisbeth , González Illescas Mayiya Lisbeth
Published: May 2021

El dinamismo de los mercados asociado a cambios de comportamiento de los consumidores, junto al creciente interés de las personas por mantener estilos de vida saludables, ha dado lugar al auge del consumo de superalimentos. Estos cambios representan un desafío para las empresas exportadoras que deben responder adaptando sus estrategias y oferta exportable. Este trabajo tiene por objetivo analizar la tendencia de mercado enfocada en el consumo de superalimentos, mediante la revisión de artículos científicos que faciliten la identificación de oportunidades para las empresas exportadoras de alimentos. Se empleó un enfoque cualitativo, mediante la aplicación de los métodos teóricos inductivo-deductivo y analítico-sintético. Para el análisis se utilizaron publicaciones científicas enfocadas en la percepción y consumo de superalimentos en varios países, y estadísticas de exportación e importación. Los principales hallazgos señalan que las tendencias actuales de consumo están relacionadas con la percepción y el comportamiento del consumidor, los estudios de las variables sociodemográficas son de gran importancia para la identificación de segmentos para la apertura de nuevos mercados. Se concluye que existen mercados potenciales para la exportación de superalimentos, especialmente en países europeos que presentan una mayor concienciación por una alimentación sana y tienen un alto poder adquisitivo.
Articulo E-learning F2F para mejorar la argumentación inductiva y deductiva
Authors: Neciosup Guibert Nicida Alejandra , Castro Rodríguez Walter José Alejandro
Published: May 2021

Esta investigación con fundamento constructivista se realizó para determinar que el E-learning F2F mejora la argumentación de los estudiantes en tercer grado de educación primaria de una institución educativa en Trujillo, 2020. La investigación de tipo aplicada con diseño cuasi-experimental se desarrolló en 56 estudiantes, 28 estudiantes para un grupo experimental y 28 en grupo de control a quienes se les aplicó una prueba de argumentación validada y con confiabilidad Alpha de Cronbach de 0.880. Esta prueba de 18 ítems se utilizó como preprueba y posprueba en ambos grupos. Los resultados, en la preprueba el 77.8% de estudiantes del grupo experimental se encontró En proceso y el 88.9% del grupo control en el mismo nivel. Posteriormente al E-learning F2F, en la posprueba, el nivel de Argumentación inductiva el 100% del grupo experimental alcanzó el nivel Logro previsto, pero el 59.3% del grupo control en nivel Proceso. Asimismo, el nivel de Argumentación deductiva, el 96.3% del grupo experimental alcanzó el nivel Logro previsto, pero el 81.5% del grupo control en Inicio. En conclusión, en la preprueba el 77.8% de estudiantes del grupo experimental estuvo en nivel Proceso y en la posprueba el 100% alcanzó nivel Logro previsto, lográndose el objetivo planteado.
Influencia del liderazgo directivo en la satisfacción laboral docente
Authors: Rodas Hernández Wilson , Pérez Azahuanche Manuel Angel
Published: May 2021

La persona que asume la conducción de una institución educativa vela por las metas, objetivos institucionales, tiene actitud inspiradora, es influyente y moviliza actividades de la comunidad educativa con acciones pedagógicos. Asimismo, los trabajadores demuestran satisfacción laboral al dar respuesta emocional efectiva referente al centro de trabajo, tienen seguridad laboral, se desarrollan profesionalmente y reconocen su trabajo con un salario; la finalidad del estudio fue determinar la influencia del liderazgo directivo en la satisfacción laboral en los docentes de la Institución Educativa N° 80074, Virú 2020; la investigación fue no experimental de enfoque cuantitativo y diseño correlacional causal, se aplicaron dos cuestionarios de 25 y 27 ítems a la muestra de 88 participantes. Los resultados muestran 95% Excelente Liderazgo directivo, el 63% están satisfechos. Mediante el coeficiente de determinación en donde el 51,4% tiene variabilidad de satisfacción laboral expresado por la influencia del Liderazgo directivo. Concluyendo que; se ejecutan acciones de liderazgo y se realiza actividades en conjunto, los docentes están a gusto con el trabajo que realizan, con el salario, tienen seguridad laboral y se desarrollan profesionalmente. Finalmente, este artículo contribuye en el aspecto científico al conocer que el liderazgo directivo influye en la satisfacción laboral docente.
Contingencia estructural en el nivel de ingresos: Un análisis en medianas y grandes empresas orenses
Authors: Batallas Astudillo Ingrid Lisseth , Luna Luna Arelys Johanna , Uriguen Aguirre Patricia Alexandra
Published: May 2021

Actualmente, el sector empresarial requiere la implementación sistematizada de estructuras organizativas internas, que permitan a las medianas y grandes empresas expandirse económicamente. La investigación tiene como finalidad analizar el impacto de la gestión del capital humano, estrategias gerenciales y administrativas, y uso eficiente de los recursos como parte de la contingencia estructural de grandes y medianas empresas de la provincia de El Oro. La pesquisa parte de un enfoque cuantitativo de alcance correlacional con diseño transversal, se utilizó el software estadístico Stata 14 para manipular 120 observaciones de la Encuesta Estructural Empresarial (ENESEM) del Instituto Nacional de  Estadística y Censos (INEC) correspondiente a la provincia de El Oro, se midió la variación del nivel de ingresos de las empresas mediante un modelo econométrico de regresión múltiple lineal y pruebas estadísticas de colinealidad, normalidad y homocedasticidad en los residuos. Referente a los resultados, el nivel de ingresos de las organizaciones del sector empresarial depende significativamente del capital humano focalizado en la alta dirección; técnicos administrativos, financieros e informáticos; y del importe y uso eficiente en el consumo de servicios básicos, combustible, suministros, materiales y herramientas. En efecto, la estructura organizativa enfocada en el área de personal calificado y en el correcto manejo de los recursos influye positivamente en el desarrollo económico de medianas y grandes empresas orenses.
Ukraine’s foreign trade: measuring dichotomies between East and West
Authors: Poliszczuk Anton
Published: May 2021

For past decades the two major consumers of Ukrainian products have been the CIS countries and the EU, both making up to 55% of the foreign trade turnover. An enactment of the Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area in 2016 has significantly boosted the trade between Ukraine and the EU Member States and, from other hand, has indirectly contributed to the reduction of trade with key CIS partners. In result, basically, has occurred a reorientation of Ukrainian trade from Eastern partners to Western. The analysis of the foreign trade of Ukraine for the period 2010–2019 has proved the thesis that Ukraine has gained first of all quantitatively in trade integration with the EU and lost first of all qualitatively in diminished trade with the CIS.
A Set-Theoretic Approach to Modeling Network Structure
Authors: Pfaltz John L.
Published: May 2021

Three computer algorithms are presented. One reduces a network N to its interior, I. Another counts all the triangles in a network, and the last randomly generates networks similar to N given just its interior I. However, these algorithms are not the usual numeric programs that manipulate a matrix representation of the network; they are set-based. Union and meet are essential binary operators; contained_in is the basic relational comparator. The interior I is shown to have desirable formal properties and to provide an effective way of revealing “communities” in social networks. A series of networks randomly generated from I is compared with the original network, N.
Can Family Farms Depend on Price Information? Testing Butter and Curd Price Integration in Poland
Authors: Klepacka Anna M. , Florkowski Wojciech J. , Revoredo-Giha Cesar
Published: May 2021

This study examines the integration of regional dairy markets in Poland, which is a major European dairy producing country. The analysis of prices is important, as many dairy farmers are members of dairy processing cooperatives, and their incomes are affected by the prices of two popular products: butter and curd. Moreover, the period of study included significant fluctuations in the world market and the termination of the milk quota system in the European Union (EU). The price records used in this study are from the two main milk-producing regions in the country: Northern and Central. The data were tested for stationarity and Granger causality before estimating a Vector Error Correction (VEC) model. Estimation results show that the removal of the milk quota lowered prices of butter and curd in the two regions. The relationships of the prices in both regions for butter markets were nearly perfect during the period January 2010–November 2017, but curd prices were found unintegrated. Impulse response analysis showed that the effect of shocks was mostly absorbed in a two-week period and prices returned to full equilibrium in about four to five weeks. This fast price adjustment indicates that both markets operate properly and no market participant can obtain gains above those offered at equilibrium.
Performance Evaluation of 3D Descriptors Paired with Learned Keypoint Detectors
Authors: Spezialetti Riccardo , Salti Samuele , Di Stefano Luigi
Published: May 2021

Matching surfaces is a challenging 3D Computer Vision problem typically addressed by local features. Although a plethora of 3D feature detectors and descriptors have been proposed in literature, it is quite difficult to identify the most effective detector-descriptor pair in a certain application. Yet, it has been shown in recent works that machine learning algorithms can be used to learn an effective 3D detector for any given 3D descriptor. In this paper, we present a performance evaluation of the detector-descriptor pairs obtained by learning a 3D detector for the most popular 3D descriptors. Purposely, we address experimental settings dealing with object recognition and surface registration. Our results show how pairing a learned detector to a learned descriptors like CGF leads to effective local features when pursuing object recognition (e.g., 0.45 recall at 0.8 precision on the UWA dataset), while there is not a clear performance gap between CGF and effective hand-crafted features like SHOT for surface registration (0.18 average precision for the former versus 0.16 for the latter).