bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In Silico Evaluation of Putative S100B Interacting Proteins in Healthy and IBD Gut Microbiota
Authors: Orsini Massimiliano , Di Liddo Rosa , Valeriani Federica , Mancin Marzia , D’Incà Renata , Castagnetti Andrea , Aceti Antonio , Parnigotto Pier Paolo , Romano Spica Vincenzo , Michetti Fabrizio
Published: July 2020

The crosstalk between human gut microbiota and intestinal wall is essential for the organ’s homeostasis and immune tolerance. The gut microbiota plays a role in healthy and pathological conditions mediated by inflammatory processes or by the gut-brain axes, both involving a possible role for S100B protein as a diffusible cytokine present not only in intestinal mucosa but also in faeces. In order to identify target proteins for a putative interaction between S100B and the microbiota proteome, we developed a bioinformatics workflow by integrating the interaction features of known domains with the proteomics data derived from metataxonomic studies of the gut microbiota from healthy and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) subjects. On the basis of the microbiota composition, proteins putatively interacting with S100B domains were in fact found, both in healthy subjects and IBD patients, in a reduced number in the latter samples, also exhibiting differences in interacting domains occurrence between the two groups. In addition, differences between ulcerative colitis and Crohn disease samples were observed. These results offer the conceptual framework for where to investigate the role of S100B as a candidate signalling molecule in the microbiota/gut communication machinery, on the basis of interactions differently conditioned by healthy or pathological microbiota.
Regulation of the Actin Cytoskeleton in Podocytes
Authors: Blaine Judith , Dylewski James
Published: July 2020

Podocytes are an integral part of the glomerular filtration barrier, a structure that prevents filtration of large proteins and macromolecules into the urine. Podocyte function is dependent on actin cytoskeleton regulation within the foot processes, structures that link podocytes to the glomerular basement membrane. Actin cytoskeleton dynamics in podocyte foot processes are complex and regulated by multiple proteins and other factors. There are two key signal integration and structural hubs within foot processes that regulate the actin cytoskeleton: the slit diaphragm and focal adhesions. Both modulate actin filament extension as well as foot process mobility. No matter what the initial cause, the final common pathway of podocyte damage is dysregulation of the actin cytoskeleton leading to foot process retraction and proteinuria. Disruption of the actin cytoskeleton can be due to acquired causes or to genetic mutations in key actin regulatory and signaling proteins. Here, we describe the major structural and signaling components that regulate the actin cytoskeleton in podocytes as well as acquired and genetic causes of actin dysregulation.
VPS72/YL1-Mediated H2A.Z Deposition Is Required for Nuclear Reassembly after Mitosis
Authors: Moreno-Andrés Daniel , Yokoyama Hideki , Scheufen Anja , Holzer Guillaume , Lue Hongqi , Schellhaus Anna Katharina , Weberruss Marion , Takagi Masatoshi , Antonin Wolfram
Published: July 2020

The eukaryotic nucleus remodels extensively during mitosis. Upon mitotic entry, the nuclear envelope breaks down and chromosomes condense into rod-shaped bodies, which are captured by the spindle apparatus and segregated during anaphase. Through telophase, chromosomes decondense and the nuclear envelope reassembles, leading to a functional interphase nucleus. While the molecular processes occurring in early mitosis are intensively investigated, our knowledge about molecular mechanisms of nuclear reassembly is rather limited. Using cell free and cellular assays, we identify the histone variant H2A.Z and its chaperone VPS72/YL1 as important factors for reassembly of a functional nucleus after mitosis. Live-cell imaging shows that siRNA-mediated downregulation of VPS72 extends the telophase in HeLa cells. In vitro, depletion of VPS72 or H2A.Z results in malformed and nonfunctional nuclei. VPS72 is part of two chromatin-remodeling complexes, SRCAP and EP400. Dissecting the mechanism of nuclear reformation using cell-free assays, we, however, show that VPS72 functions outside of the SRCAP and EP400 remodeling complexes to deposit H2A.Z, which in turn is crucial for formation of a functional nucleus.
Red Blood Cell Peroxynitrite Causes Endothelial Dysfunction in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus via Arginase
Authors: Mahdi Ali , Tengbom John , Alvarsson Michael , Wernly Bernhard , Zhou Zhichao , Pernow John
Published: July 2020

We recently showed that red blood cells (RBCs) from patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM-RBCs) induce endothelial dysfunction through a mechanism involving arginase I and reactive oxygen species. Peroxynitrite is known to activate arginase in endothelial cells. Whether peroxynitrite regulates arginase activity in RBCs, and whether it is involved in the cross-talk between RBCs and the vasculature in T2DM, is unclear and elusive. The present study was designed to test the hypothesis that endothelial dysfunction induced by T2DM-RBCs is driven by peroxynitrite and upregulation of arginase. RBCs were isolated from patients with T2DM and healthy age matched controls. RBCs were co-incubated with aortae isolated from wild type rats for 18 h in the absence and presence of peroxynitrite scavenger FeTTPS. Evaluation of endothelial function in organ chambers by cumulative addition of acetylcholine as well as measurement of RBC and vessel arginase activity was performed. In another set of experiments, RBCs isolated from healthy subjects (Healthy RBCs) were incubated with the peroxynitrite donor SIN-1 with subsequent evaluation of endothelial function and arginase activity. T2DM-RBCs, but not Healthy RBCs, induced impairment in endothelial function, which was fully reversed by scavenging of RBC but not vascular peroxynitrite with FeTPPS. Arginase activity was up-regulated by the peroxynitrite donor SIN-1 in Healthy RBCs, an effect that was inhibited by FeTTPS. Healthy RBCs co-incubated with aortae in the presence of SIN-1 caused impairment of endothelial function, which was inhibited by FeTTPS or the arginase inhibitor ABH. T2DM-RBCs induced up-regulation of vascular arginase, an effect that was fully inhibited by FeTTPS. Collectively, our data indicate that RBCs impair endothelial function in T2DM via an effect that is driven by a peroxynitrite-mediated increase in arginase activity. This mechanism may be targeted in patients with T2DM for improvement in endothelial function.
Microglia: Agents of the CNS Pro-Inflammatory Response
Authors: Rodríguez-Gómez José A. , Kavanagh Edel , Engskog-Vlachos Pinelopi , Engskog Mikael K.R. , Herrera Antonio J. , Espinosa-Oliva Ana M. , Joseph Bertrand , Hajji Nabil , Venero José L. , Burguillos Miguel A.
Published: July 2020

The pro-inflammatory immune response driven by microglia is a key contributor to the pathogenesis of several neurodegenerative diseases. Though the research of microglia spans over a century, the last two decades have increased our understanding exponentially. Here, we discuss the phenotypic transformation from homeostatic microglia towards reactive microglia, initiated by specific ligand binding to pattern recognition receptors including toll-like receptor-4 (TLR4) or triggering receptors expressed on myeloid cells-2 (TREM2), as well as pro-inflammatory signaling pathways triggered such as the caspase-mediated immune response. Additionally, new research disciplines such as epigenetics and immunometabolism have provided us with a more holistic view of how changes in DNA methylation, microRNAs, and the metabolome may influence the pro-inflammatory response. This review aimed to discuss our current knowledge of pro-inflammatory microglia from different angles, including recent research highlights such as the role of exosomes in spreading neuroinflammation and emerging techniques in microglia research including positron emission tomography (PET) scanning and the use of human microglia generated from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). Finally, we also discuss current thoughts on the impact of pro-inflammatory microglia in neurodegenerative diseases.
PCAF Involvement in Lamin A/C-HDAC2 Interplay during the Early Phase of Muscle Differentiation
Authors: Santi Spartaco , Cenni Vittoria , Capanni Cristina , Lattanzi Giovanna , Mattioli Elisabetta
Published: July 2020

Lamin A/C has been implicated in the epigenetic regulation of muscle gene expression through dynamic interaction with chromatin domains and epigenetic enzymes. We previously showed that lamin A/C interacts with histone deacetylase 2 (HDAC2). In this study, we deepened the relevance and regulation of lamin A/C-HDAC2 interaction in human muscle cells. We present evidence that HDAC2 binding to lamin A/C is related to HDAC2 acetylation on lysine 75 and expression of p300-CBP associated factor (PCAF), an acetyltransferase known to acetylate HDAC2. Our findings show that lamin A and farnesylated prelamin A promote PCAF recruitment to the nuclear lamina and lamin A/C binding in human myoblasts committed to myogenic differentiation, while protein interaction is decreased in differentiating myotubes. Interestingly, PCAF translocation to the nuclear envelope, as well as lamin A/C-PCAF interaction, are reduced by transient expression of lamin A mutated forms causing Emery Dreifuss muscular dystrophy. Consistent with this observation, lamin A/C interaction with both PCAF and HDAC2 is significantly reduced in Emery–Dreifuss muscular dystrophy myoblasts. Overall, these results support the view that, by recruiting PCAF and HDAC2 in a molecular platform, lamin A/C might contribute to regulate their epigenetic activity required in the early phase of muscle differentiation.
Entropy and the Second Law of Thermodynamics—The Nonequilibrium Perspective
Authors: Struchtrup Henning
Published: July 2020

An alternative to the Carnot-Clausius approach for introducing entropy and the second law of thermodynamics is outlined that establishes entropy as a nonequilibrium property from the onset. Five simple observations lead to entropy for nonequilibrium and equilibrium states, and its balance. Thermodynamic temperature is identified, its positivity follows from the stability of the rest state. It is shown that the equations of engineering thermodynamics are valid for the case of local thermodynamic equilibrium, with inhomogeneous states. The main findings are accompanied by examples and additional discussion to firmly imbed classical and engineering thermodynamics into nonequilibrium thermodynamics.
Analysis and Design of Self-Oscillating Resonant Converters with Loss-Free Resistor Characteristics
Authors: Bonache-Samaniego Ricardo , Olalla Carlos , Valderrama-Blavi Hugo , Martínez-Salamero Luis
Published: July 2020

A general approach for the analysis and design of self-oscillating resonant converters is presented in this paper, for a particular class of circuits in which the change of input voltage polarity is caused by the zero-crossings of the input inductor current. The key features of the method are an analytical description in the time-domain of a spiral that eventually converges into an ellipse, and a frequency–domain analysis that explains the behavior of the ellipse as a limit cycle. On a theoretical basis, this class of circuits behaves as loss-free resistors (LFR) because in steady-state the input inductor current is in phase with the first harmonic of the input voltage. The proposed analytical procedure predicts accurately the amplitude and frequency of the limit cycle and justifies the stability of its generation. This accuracy is reflected in the close agreement between the theoretical expressions and the corresponding simulated and measured waveforms. Third and fourth order resonant converters are designed following simple guidelines derived from the theoretical analysis.
Influence of Control and Structure Parameters on the Starting Performance of a 12/8 Pole Switched Reluctance Motor
Authors: Han Jichao , Ge Baojun , Zhang Kai , Wang Yang , Wang Chao
Published: July 2020

To investigate the influence of control and structure parameters on the starting performance of a switched reluctance motor, a 12/8 pole switched reluctance motor is analyzed in this paper. The novel field-circuit coupled finite element method of switched reluctance motor is proposed in the paper. The influence of the controller on the switched reluctance motor is considered. The influence of rotor initial position angle, starting mode, starting current, and structure parameters on the starting performance of the switched reluctance motor is studied using the field-circuit coupled finite element method. The starting performance of the switched reluctance motor is obtained under the different control and structure parameters. The alternating starting mode of single- and two-phase winding can improve the starting torque of switched reluctance motor (SRM). As the stator pole arc coefficient increases, the starting torque of SRM increases. The appropriate reduction of the air gap length can improve the starting torque of SRM. Experimental results of the prototype are compared with the calculation results, which verifies the reliability of the calculation method and accuracy of the calculation results.
Comparison of the Use of Energy Storages and Energy Curtailment as an Addition to the Allocation of Renewable Energy in the Distribution System in Order to Minimize Development Costs
Authors: Andrychowicz Mateusz
Published: July 2020

This paper presents a comparison of the efficiency of energy storage and energy curtailment as an addition to the allocation of renewable energy in the distribution system in order to minimize development costs using a Mixed Integer-Linear Programming (MILP). Energy sources and energy storages are selected, sized and allocated under operational circumstances such as grid congestions and weather conditions. Loads and power units are modeled by daily consumption and generation profiles respectively, to reflect the intermittent character of renewable generation and consumption of energy. The optimization is carried out for a one-year time horizon using twenty-four representative days. The method is verified on three main simulation scenarios and three sub-scenarios for each of them, allowing for the comparison of the efficiency of each used tool. The main scenarios differ in their share of energy from renewable energy sources (RES) in total consumption. In the sub-scenarios, different tools (RES sizing and allocation, energy storages (ES) sizing and allocation and energy curtailment) are used. The results of this research confirm that energy curtailment is a more efficient additional tool for RES sizing and allocation than energy storages. This method can find practical application for Distribution System Operators in elaborating grid development strategies.
The Role of Methionine Aminopeptidase 2 in Lymphangiogenesis
Authors: Esa Rawnaq , Steinberg Eliana , Dror Dvir , Schwob Ouri , Khajavi Mehrdad , Maoz Miriam , Kinarty Yael , Inbal Adi , Zick Aviad , Benny Ofra
Published: July 2020

During the metastasis process, tumor cells invade the blood circulatory system directly from venous capillaries or indirectly via lymphatic vessels. Understanding the relative contribution of each pathway and identifying the molecular targets that affect both processes is critical for reducing cancer spread. Methionine aminopeptidase 2 (MetAp2) is an intracellular enzyme known to modulate angiogenesis. In this study, we investigated the additional role of MetAp2 in lymphangiogenesis. A histological staining of tumors from human breast-cancer donors was performed in order to detect the level and the localization of MetAp2 and lymphatic capillaries. The basal enzymatic level and activity in vascular and lymphatic endothelial cells were compared, followed by loss of function studies determining the role of MetAp2 in lymphangiogenesis in vitro and in vivo. The results from the histological analyses of the tumor tissues revealed a high MetAp2 expression, with detectable sites of co-localization with lymphatic capillaries. We showed slightly reduced levels of the MetAp2 enzyme and MetAp2 mRNA expression and activity in primary lymphatic cells when compared to the vascular endothelial cells. The genetic and biochemical manipulation of MetAp2 confirmed the dual activity of the enzyme in both vascular and lymphatic remodulation in cell function assays and in a zebrafish model. We found that cancer-related lymphangiogenesis is inhibited in murine models following MetAp2 inhibition treatment. Taken together, our study provides an indication that MetAp2 is a significant contributor to lymphangiogenesis and carries a dual role in both vascular and lymphatic capillary formation. Our data suggests that MetAp2 inhibitors can be effectively used as anti-metastatic broad-spectrum drugs.
Performance Characterization of Laser Powder Bed Fusion Fabricated Inconel 718 Treated with Experimental Hot Isostatic Processing Cycles
Authors: Varela Jaime , Merino Jorge , Pickett Christina , Abu-Issa Ahmad , Arrieta Edel , Murr Lawrence E. , Wicker Ryan B. , Ahlfors Magnus , Godfrey Donald , Medina Francisco
Published: July 2020

Inconel 718 alloy fabricated by selective laser melting (SLM) (or laser powder-bed fusion (LPBF)) has been post-process heat-treated by stress-relief anneal at 1065 °C; stress-relief anneal (1065 °C) + solution treatment (at 720 °C) + aging (at 620 °C); hot isostatic pressing (HIP) (at 1120–1200 °C); stress-relief anneal + HIP; and stress-relief anneal + HIP + solution treatment + aging. Microstructure analysis utilizing optical metallography revealed primarily equiaxed grain structures (having average diameters ranging from ~30 to 49 microns) containing annealing twins, and a high concentration of carbide precipitates in all HIP-related treatments in the grain boundaries and intragrain regions. However, no precipitates nucleated on the {111} coherent annealing twin boundaries because of their very low interfacial free energy in contrast to regular grain boundaries. The mechanical properties for the as-fabricated Inconel 718 exhibited a yield stress of 0.64 GPa, UTS of 0.98 GPa, and elongation of 26%. Following stress-relief anneal at 1065 °C, the yield stress dropped to 0.60 GPa, while the elongation increased to 43%. The associated grain structure was an irregular, somewhat elongated, recrystallized structure. This structure was preserved at a stress anneal at 1065 °C + solution treatment + aging, but grain boundary and intragrain precipitation resulted in a doubling of the yield stress to 1.3 GPa and a reduced elongation of 12.6%. The results of HIP-related post-process heat treatments involving temperatures above 1060 °C demonstrated that the yield stress and elongations could be varied from 1.07 to 1.17 GPa and 11.4% to 19%, respectively. Corresponding Rockwell C-scale hardness values also varied from 33 for the as-fabricated Inconel 718 to 53 for simple post-process HIP treatment at 1163 °C.
Ti3C2Tx MXene-Based Light-Responsive Hydrogel Composite for Bendable Bilayer Photoactuator
Authors: Zavahir Sifani , Sobolčiak Patrik , Krupa Igor , Han Dong Suk , Tkac Jan , Kasak Peter
Published: July 2020

Soft actuators based on hydrogel materials, which can convert light energy directly into mechanical energy, are of the utmost importance, especially with enhancements in device development. However, the hunt for specific photothermal nanomaterials with distinct performance remains challenging. In this study, we successfully fabricated a bilayer hydrogel actuator consisting of an active photothermal layer from incorporated Ti3C2Tx MXene in poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) p(NIPAm)hydrogel structure and a passive layer from the N-(2-hydroxylethylpropyl)acrylamide (HEAA) hydrogel structure. The uniform and effective incorporation of MXene into the NIPAm hydrogel structures were characterized by a battery of techniques. The light responsive swelling properties of the MXene-embedded NIPAm-based hydrogel demonstrated fully reversible and repeatable behavior in the light on–off regime for up to ten consecutive cycles. The effect of MXene loading, the shape of the actuator, and the light source effects on the bilayer NIPAm-HEAA hydrogel structure were investigated. The bilayer hydrogel with MXene loading of 0.3% in the NIPAm hydrogel exhibited a 200% change of the bending angle in terms of its bidirectional shape/volume after 100 s exposure to white light at an intensity of 70 mW cm−2. Additionally, the bending behavior under real sunlight was evaluated, showing the material’s potential applicability in practical environments.
Concurrent Infection of Skunk Adenovirus-1, Listeria monocytogenes, and a Regionally Specific Clade of Canine Distemper Virus in One Gray Fox (Urocyon cinereoargenteus) and Concurrent Listeriosis and Canine Distemper in a Second Gray Fox
Authors: Needle David B. , Marr Jacqueline L. , Park Cooper J. , Andam Cheryl P. , Wise Annabel G. , Maes Roger K. , Wilkes Rebecca P. , Anis Eman A. , Sidor Inga F. , Agnew Dalen , Ellis Julie C. , Tate Patrick , Mathewson Abigail , Benton Christopher , Gibson Robert
Published: July 2020

One free-ranging Gray fox (Urocyon cinereoargenteus) underwent autopsy following neurologic disease, with findings including morbilliviral inclusions and associated lesions in numerous tissues, adenoviral intranuclear inclusions in bronchial epithelial cells, and septic pleuropneumonia, hepatitis, splenitis, and meningoencephalitis. Molecular diagnostics on fresh lung identified a strain within a distinct clade of canine distemper that is currently unique to wildlife in New England, as well as the emerging multi-host viral pathogen skunk adenovirus-1. Bacterial culture of fresh liver resulted in a pure growth of Listeria monocytogenes, with whole genome sequencing indicating that the isolate had a vast array of antimicrobial resistance and virulence-associated genes. One year later, a second fox was euthanized for inappropriate behavior in a residential area, and diagnostic workup revealed canine distemper and septic L. monocytogenes, with the former closely related to the distemper virus found in the previous fox and the latter divergent from the L. monocytogenes from the previous fox.
EAGA-MLP—An Enhanced and Adaptive Hybrid Classification Model for Diabetes Diagnosis
Authors: Mishra Sushruta , Tripathy Hrudaya Kumar , Mallick Pradeep Kumar , Bhoi Akash Kumar , Barsocchi Paolo
Published: July 2020

Disease diagnosis is a critical task which needs to be done with extreme precision. In recent times, medical data mining is gaining popularity in complex healthcare problems based disease datasets. Unstructured healthcare data constitutes irrelevant information which can affect the prediction ability of classifiers. Therefore, an effective attribute optimization technique must be used to eliminate the less relevant data and optimize the dataset for enhanced accuracy. Type 2 Diabetes, also called Pima Indian Diabetes, affects millions of people around the world. Optimization techniques can be applied to generate a reliable dataset constituting of symptoms that can be useful for more accurate diagnosis of diabetes. This study presents the implementation of a new hybrid attribute optimization algorithm called Enhanced and Adaptive Genetic Algorithm (EAGA) to get an optimized symptoms dataset. Based on readings of symptoms in the optimized dataset obtained, a possible occurrence of diabetes is forecasted. EAGA model is further used with Multilayer Perceptron (MLP) to determine the presence or absence of type 2 diabetes in patients based on the symptoms detected. The proposed classification approach was named as Enhanced and Adaptive-Genetic Algorithm-Multilayer Perceptron (EAGA-MLP). It is also implemented on seven different disease datasets to assess its impact and effectiveness. Performance of the proposed model was validated against some vital performance metrics. The results show a maximum accuracy rate of 97.76% and 1.12 s of execution time. Furthermore, the proposed model presents an F-Score value of 86.8% and a precision of 80.2%. The method is compared with many existing studies and it was observed that the classification accuracy of the proposed Enhanced and Adaptive-Genetic Algorithm-Multilayer Perceptron (EAGA-MLP) model clearly outperformed all other previous classification models. Its performance was also tested with seven other disease datasets. The mean accuracy, precision, recall and f-score obtained was 94.7%, 91%, 89.8% and 90.4%, respectively. Thus, the proposed model can assist medical experts in accurately determining risk factors of type 2 diabetes and thereby help in accurately classifying the presence of type 2 diabetes in patients. Consequently, it can be used to support healthcare experts in the diagnosis of patients affected by diabetes.
Physiological Sensors Based Emotion Recognition While Experiencing Tactile Enhanced Multimedia
Authors: Raheel Aasim , Majid Muhammad , Alnowami Majdi , Anwar Syed Muhammad
Published: July 2020

Emotion recognition has increased the potential of affective computing by getting an instant feedback from users and thereby, have a better understanding of their behavior. Physiological sensors have been used to recognize human emotions in response to audio and video content that engages single (auditory) and multiple (two: auditory and vision) human senses, respectively. In this study, human emotions were recognized using physiological signals observed in response to tactile enhanced multimedia content that engages three (tactile, vision, and auditory) human senses. The aim was to give users an enhanced real-world sensation while engaging with multimedia content. To this end, four videos were selected and synchronized with an electric fan and a heater, based on timestamps within the scenes, to generate tactile enhanced content with cold and hot air effect respectively. Physiological signals, i.e., electroencephalography (EEG), photoplethysmography (PPG), and galvanic skin response (GSR) were recorded using commercially available sensors, while experiencing these tactile enhanced videos. The precision of the acquired physiological signals (including EEG, PPG, and GSR) is enhanced using pre-processing with a Savitzky-Golay smoothing filter. Frequency domain features (rational asymmetry, differential asymmetry, and correlation) from EEG, time domain features (variance, entropy, kurtosis, and skewness) from GSR, heart rate and heart rate variability from PPG data are extracted. The K nearest neighbor classifier is applied to the extracted features to classify four (happy, relaxed, angry, and sad) emotions. Our experimental results show that among individual modalities, PPG-based features gives the highest accuracy of 78.57 % as compared to EEG- and GSR-based features. The fusion of EEG, GSR, and PPG features further improved the classification accuracy to 79.76 % (for four emotions) when interacting with tactile enhanced multimedia.
Non-Destructive Detection of Bone Fragments Embedded in Meat Using Hyperspectral Reflectance Imaging Technique
Authors: Lim Jongguk , Lee Ahyeong , Kang Jungsook , Seo Youngwook , Kim Balgeum , Kim Giyoung , Kim Seong Min
Published: July 2020

Meat consumption has shifted from a quantitative to a qualitative growth stage due to improved living standards and economic development. Recently, consumers have paid attention to quality and safety in their decision to purchase meat. However, foreign substances which are not normal food ingredients are unintentionally incorporated into meat. These should be eliminated as a hazard to quality or safety. It is important to find a fast, non-destructive, and accurate detection technique of foreign substance in the meat processing industry. Hyperspectral imaging technology has been regarded as a novel technology capable of providing large-scale imaging and continuous observation information on agricultural products and food. In this study, we considered the feasibility of the short-wave near infrared (SWIR) hyperspectral reflectance imaging technique to detect bone fragments embedded in chicken meat. De-boned chicken breast samples with thicknesses of 3, 6, and 9-mm and 5 bone fragments with lengths of about 20–30-mm are used for this experiment. The reflectance spectra (in the wavelength range from 987 to 1701-nm) of the 5 bone fragments embedded under the chicken breast fillet are collected. Our results suggested that these hyperspectral imaging technique is able to detect bone fragments in chicken breast, particularly with the use of a subtraction image (corresponding to image at 1153.8-nm and 1480.2-nm). Thus, the SWIR hyperspectral reflectance imaging technique can be potentially used to detect foreign substance embedded in meat.
Spectroscopic Evaluation of Red Blood Cells of Thalassemia Patients with Confocal Microscopy: A Pilot Study
Authors: Rey-Barroso Laura , Roldán Mónica , Burgos-Fernández Francisco J. , Gassiot Susanna , Ruiz Llobet Anna , Isola Ignacio , Vilaseca Meritxell
Published: July 2020

Hemoglobinopathies represent the most common single-gene defects in the world and pose a major public health problem, particularly in tropical countries, where they occur with high frequency. Diagnosing hemoglobinopathies can sometimes be difficult due to the coexistence of different causes of anemia, such as thalassemia and iron deficiency, and blood transfusions, among other factors, and requires expensive and complex molecular tests. This work explores the possibility of using spectral confocal microscopy as a diagnostic tool for thalassemia in pediatric patients, a disease caused by mutations in the globin genes that result in changes of the globin chains that form hemoglobin—in pediatric patients. Red blood cells (RBCs) from patients with different syndromes of alpha-thalassemia and iron deficiency (including anemia) as well as healthy (control) subjects were analyzed under a Leica TCS SP8 confocal microscope following different image acquisition protocols. We found that diseased RBCs exhibited autofluorescence when excited at 405 nm and their emission was collected in the spectral range from 425 nm to 790 nm. Three experimental descriptors calculated from the mean emission intensities at 502 nm, 579 nm, 628 nm, and 649 nm allowed us to discriminate between diseased and healthy cells. According to the results obtained, spectral confocal microscopy could serve as a tool in the diagnosis of thalassemia.
Shape Sensing with Rayleigh Backscattering Fibre Optic Sensor
Authors: Xu Cheng , Sharif Khodaei Zahra
Published: July 2020

In this paper, Rayleigh backscattering sensors (RBS) are used to realize shape sensing of beam-like structures. Compared to conventional shape sensing systems based on fibre Bragg grating (FBG) sensors, RBS are capable of continuous lateral sensing. Compared to other types of distributed fibre optic sensors (FOS), RBS have a higher spatial resolution. First, the RBS’s strain sensing accuracy is validated by an experiment comparing it with strain gauge response. After that, two shape sensing algorithms (the coordinate transformation method (CTM) and the strain-deflection equation method (SDEM)) based on the distributed FOS’ input strain data are derived. The algorithms are then optimized according to the distributed FOS’ features, to make it applicable to complex and/or combine loading situations while maintaining high reliability in case of sensing part malfunction. Numerical simulations are carried out to validate the algorithms’ accuracy and compare their accuracy. The simulation shows that compared to the FBG-based system, the RBS system has a better performance in configuring the shape when the structure is under complex loading. Finally, a validation experiment is conducted in which the RBS-based shape sensing system is used to configure the shape of a composite cantilever-beam-like specimen under concentrated loading. The result is then compared with the optical camera-measured shape. The experimental results show that both shape sensing algorithms predict the shape with high accuracy comparable with the optical camera result.
Why Not Glycine Electrochemical Biosensors?
Authors: Pérez-Ràfols Clara , Liu Yujie , Wang Qianyu , Cuartero María , Crespo Gastón A.
Published: July 2020

Glycine monitoring is gaining importance as a biomarker in clinical analysis due to its involvement in multiple physiological functions, which results in glycine being one of the most analyzed biomolecules for diagnostics. This growing demand requires faster and more reliable, while affordable, analytical methods that can replace the current gold standard for glycine detection, which is based on sample extraction with subsequent use of liquid chromatography or fluorometric kits for its quantification in centralized laboratories. This work discusses electrochemical sensors and biosensors as an alternative option, focusing on their potential application for glycine determination in blood, urine, and cerebrospinal fluid, the three most widely used matrices for glycine analysis with clinical meaning. For electrochemical sensors, voltammetry/amperometry is the preferred readout (10 of the 13 papers collected in this review) and metal-based redox mediator modification is the predominant approach for electrode fabrication (11 of the 13 papers). However, none of the reported electrochemical sensors fulfill the requirements for direct analysis of biological fluids, most of them lacking appropriate selectivity, linear range of response, and/or capability of measuring at physiological conditions. Enhanced selectivity has been recently reported using biosensors (with an enzyme element in the electrode design), although this is still a very incipient approach. Currently, despite the benefits of electrochemistry, only optical biosensors have been successfully reported for glycine detection and, from all the inspected works, it is clear that bioengineering efforts will play a key role in the embellishment of selectivity and storage stability of the sensing element in the sensor.
Types of refractive errors and methods for their diagnosis
Authors: Lemzyakova Olga
Published: July 2020

Refraction of the eye means its ability to bend (refract) light in its own optical system. In a normal state, which is called emmetropia, light rays passing through the optical system of the eye focus on the retina, from where the impulse is transmitted to the visual cortex of the brain and is analyzed there. A person sees equally well both in the distance and near in this situation. However, very often, refractive errors develop as a result of various types of influences. Myopia, or short-sightedness, occurs when the light rays are focused in front of the retina as a result of passing through the optical system of the eye. In this case, a person will clearly distinguish close objects and have difficulties in seeing distant objects. On the opposite side is development of farsightedness (hypermetropia), in which the focusing of light rays occurs behind the retina — such a person sees distant objects clearly, but outlines of closer objects are out of focus. Near vision impairment in old age is a natural process called presbyopia, it develops due to the lens thickening. Both myopia and hypermetropia can have different degrees of severity. The variant, when different refractive errors are observed in different eyes, is called anisometropia. In the same case, if different types of refraction are observed in the same eye, it is astigmatism, and most often it is a congenital pathology. Almost all of the above mentioned refractive errors require correction with spectacles or use of contact lenses. Recently, people are increasingly resorting to the methods of surgical vision correction.
Athlete's heart in the practice of a family doctor
Authors: Ustinova Margarita , Skvortsov Vsevolod
Published: July 2020

The term “athlete's heart” was first described in 1899 by S. Henschen. This concept refers to the activation of physiological adaptation mechanisms and structural remodeling of the heart in sports medicine. The article presents the basic concepts used in sports medicine, signs of an "athlete's heart", physiological manifestations and pathological abnormalities that require attention from a doctor are highlighted. The most common causes of cardiovascular complications in professional sports are indicated. Today, the fact that physical activity of low intensity favorably affects the state of the cardiovascular system causes no doubt, while overloads or their absence of any loads are of no use.
Management of cataract patients
Authors: Dmitrachkova Natalya
Published: July 2020

Cataract is partial or complete lens opacity, and is one of the main causes of low vision and reversible blindness in the world, affecting every sixth person over the age of 40 years and the vast majority of the population by 80 years. Taking into account gradually increasing life expectancy, which is especially characteristic of economically developed countries, an increase in the number of cataract patients from the present 20 million to 40 million people is predicted by 2021.
ГРАМАТИЧНІ ЗАСОБИ ВИРАЖЕННЯ ОЦІНКИ В СУЧАСНІЙ УКРАЇНСЬКІЙ МОВІ
Authors: Краснобаєва-Чорна Ж. В.
Published: July 2020

Рецензоване студіювання Оксани Володимирівни Халіман присвячене комплексному аналізу граматичних одиниць як засобів вираження аксіологічних смислів. Попри наявність вагомих надбань у рамках вітчизняної та закордонної аксіологічної лінгвістики (праці М. Алефіренка, Н. Арутюнової, О. Бабаєвої, О. Вольф, Г. Гібатової, Т. Космеди, Т. Маркелової, Г. Приходько, В. Телії, З. Фоміної та ін.) авторка знаходить актуальні аспекти для подальших наукових пошуків й акцентує увагу на описі механізмів породження оцінки за участю граматичних засобів (морфологічних і синтаксичних), що уможливить об’єднання граматичних значень, схарактеризованих з огляду на їхню актуалізацію в мовленнєвому процесі, на ґрунті їхньої прагматичної значущості з урахуванням відповідної функційної спеціалізації (оцінної функції).
Cuidados en el recién nacido de acuerdo a creencias y costumbres en diferentes culturas
Authors: Banda Pérez Antonieta de Jesús , Álvarez Aguirre Alicia , Casique Casique Leticia
Published: July 2020

El presente ensayo corresponde a una revisión sobre los cuidados culturales en el recién nacido en las mujeres indígenas y su aporte para la enfermería transcultural. En las zonas indígenas, el cuidado posee una cosmovisión de sus propias creencias, costumbres, tradiciones y normas relacionadas con la salud o el tratamiento de la enfermedad. En general, los estados con mayor presencia indígena presentan los niveles más altos de mortalidad materna. El conocer los cuidados culturales permite identificar y significar las prácticas y creencias que suelen pensarse como tradiciones retrógradas comparadas con el avance técnico científico al establecer un puente de comunicación entre los cuidados propios que tienen las mujeres indígenas. Se concluye en concreto el nacimiento de un niño es considerado un acontecimiento de gran importancia social y cultural no sólo para la familia, sino también para la comunidad. Se puede decir que es necesario alcanzar competencia cultural para ofrecer cuidado culturalmente congruente a las necesidades de estas mujeres en cuanto a los cuidados en el recién nacido. Es indispensable obtener conocimientos por medio de la investigación, llevar los productos de la investigación a la práctica del cuidado de enfermería y así avanzar hacia la enfermería transcultural.
Ciencia, amor e incertidumbre ante Covid-19
Authors: Cervera Vallejos Mirtha Flor
Published: July 2020

Una vez más logre entender lo que Roy argumentaba con respecto a  enfermería  como disciplina práctica,  al incorporar un cuerpo científico de  saberes para proporcionar un servicio esencial a las personas, capaz de influir de manera positiva, al existir capacidad para pensar y sentir  ajustándose  de manera eficaz  a los cambios del entorno1, específicamente  ante los primeros casos de Covid-19 y subsiguientes, personificado como una dura prueba para la humanidad por las secuelas de infecciones, muerte súbita o situación de salud crítica con ingresos en UCI, emergencia, centro de hemodiálisis, o servicios adaptados para las circunstancias que no eran nada fáciles de comprender y asimilar y  Enfermería desarrollo una función magnifica, evidenciando  sus capacidades adaptativas  para mejorar las interacciones con el entorno desde la valoración en triaje hasta la aplicación de un ventilador mecánico en los servicios críticos.
ANALYSIS OF THE PROBLEMS AND TYPES OF THE PRESCHOOLER SEXUALITY EDUCATIONAL SKILL FROM PARENT AND TEACHER VIEW
Authors: Eshak Zarina , Zain Azizah , Che Mustafa Mazlina
Published: July 2020

The purpose of this study is to examine the issue of sexuality education in the areas of the home and school safety and to identify the types of sexuality education skills that preschool children need to learn from the perspective of teachers and parents. This study uses a quantitative approach to analyzing the questionnaire. The study sample consisted of 126 preschool teachers and parents. The findings of the study show that respondents agree that the root cause of the problem of sexual crime is the lack of exposure to sexuality education at home and at school. While the skills that are most important are the skills of taking care of yourself and others. Therefore, those involved in Preschool Education should take the initiative to provide a special sex education module for pre-schoolers to safeguard themselves.
A REVIEW OF ACADEMIC AMOTIVATION AND THE APPLICATION OF MIRACLE QUESTION AMONG ADOLESCENTS
Authors: Chan Siaw Leng , Ng Lei Voon
Published: July 2020

Academic amotivation contributed to maladaptive functioning and negatively affected the academic engagement of adolescent students. This paper aimed to study on the application of the Miracle Question (MQ) in facilitating adolescents with academic amotivation. The present work also demonstrated the underlying theories of academic amotivation (i.e., Self-Determination Theory) and MQ (i.e., Solution-Focused Brief Therapy). A three-part process model and practical effects of MQ were included for practitioners such as school counselors and teachers to assist adolescents better. The main implication of this paper is to highlight the potential of MQ to stand alone as a primary technique in school counseling and teaching practices. More qualitative research on school-based interventions using MQ is recommended.
THE INFLUENCE OF SELF EFFICACY ON ARABIC LANGUAGE COMPETENCY AMONG PRIMARY SCHOOL PUPILS
Authors: Taat Muhamad Suhaimi , Ariffin Azlin
Published: July 2020

This study was aimed to determine the influence of self-efficacy on Arabic language competency among primary school pupils. Arabic is one of the three major languages that play an important role in human history and civilization. This survey was conducted on 200 primary school students in the northwestern part of Sabah who was selected by using cluster and simple random sampling. The instrument used were the questionnaire and the Arabic test set. The data were analyzed using SPSS software. Then, the data collected were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics (Pearson correlation and simple regression). The result found that there was a significant correlation (r = 0.329, p <0.01) and also a significant influence (R2 = .109, p<0.05) of self-efficacy on students' Arabic proficiency. It is hoped that this study will be able to provide useful information to improve Arabic language competency among students.
INVESTIGATING MOTIVATION, EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE, WORK SATISFACTION AND ORGANIZATIONS COMMITMENT AMONG PRIMARY SCHOOL ISLAMIC EDUCATION TEACHER
Authors: Juhumi Hujaimah @ Siti Syafiqah , Nazarudin Mohamad Nizam , Noordin Zakiah , Juati Nur Afny , Musa Jumadi
Published: July 2020

There is evidence indicating that most teachers in most school systems are not satisfied with their jobs. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between Islamic education teacher motivation, emotional intelligence work satisfaction, and organizational commitment in Ranau district primary schools. Furthermore, the study aims to examine the role of gender and age in motivation, emotional intelligence, and work satisfaction. The participants were selected by proportional stratified sampling and simple random selection. This study adopted a survey research design that utilized an ex-post facto research type in which the researcher used questionnaires to collect data from the respondents. The instruments used are the A Questionnaire Measure of Individual Difference in Achieving Tendency (QMAT), Multifactor Emotional Intelligence Scale (MIES), Job in General’ (JIG) & Job Descriptive Index (JDI) and Organization Commitment Questionnaire (OCQ). A total of 108 Islamic Education teachers (mean age 40.1 +1.2 years; 47 males, 61 female) from 71 primary schools in Ranau District were involved in this study. The data gathered from the respondents were downloaded into the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) for quantitative analysis. The results of the study indicate that there is a positive significant relationship between motivation [r=0.905, p<.05)], emotional intelligence [r=0.912, p<.05)], work satisfaction [r=0.913, p<.05)] and organizations commitment. It is also found there is no significant difference among primary school teachers of different ages and gender concerning motivation, emotional intelligence work satisfaction, and organizational commitment. The present study gains significance as the results can assist the teachers and organizations in enhancing the organizational commitment of teachers.
SOCIAL MEDIA USE AND ITS RELATIONSHIP WITH SELF-ESTEEM AND PSYCHOLOGICAL DISTRESS AMONG PRE-UNIVERSITY STUDENTS
Authors: Samat Faieza , Tengku Muda Tengku Elmi Azlina , Mohd Yusof Syafiqah , Abdul Halim Aina Afiqah
Published: July 2020

This research aimed to determine the level of social media use among pre-university students and the association between social media use with self-esteem and psychological distress. Participants of this study were 173 students from ASASIpintar pre-university program in Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia. Instruments used were three sets of questionnaires obtained from Gupta and Bashir (2018), Lovibond and Lovibond (1995), and Rosenberg (1965). This study showed that the level of social media use among ASASIpintar students was moderate while social media use was positively associated with self-esteem and psychological distress.
FIRST GRAMMARS OF THE LANGUAGES OF PEOPLES OF THE URAL AND VOLGA REGION
Authors: Salmin Anton Kirillovich
Published: July 2020

The article covers the history of preparation and publication of the first grammars of the languages of peoples of the Ural and Volga region - textbooks for the Chuvash, Udmurt, and Mari languages. The books were published in 1769 and 1775 in St. Petersburg, in the printing house of the Academy of Sciences. The author of the article, relying on facts, thinks that the books were discussed and prepared for publishing in Kunstkamera. You should pay attention to important points. Kazan, since the time of the first Saint gurius, has become a center of spiritual enlightenment, especially for the non-Russian peoples of the Volga region.