bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A FAIRY TALE AS A LITERARY BASIS OF CHOREOGRAPHIC WORKS
Authors:   Ivan Franko National University of Lviv, Rusanova Milena
Published: January 2021

The article examines the synthesis of literature and choreographic art. The literary work is considered in the context of the libretto of a ballet performance, special importance is given to such a literary genre as a fairy tale, the plots of which served as a source of inspiration for choreographers of different eras, different countries. The role of literature in choreographic art is determined, the literary basis in a choreographic work from the origin of ballet art to the present is investigated. A historical excursion on the interpenetration of literature and choreography, from the XIII century. to date. Literary plots and literary images have been actively used in choreographic art at all times. However, the complete "fusion" of literary work and choreographic vocabulary took place only in the XX century, with the emergence of drama. It is believed that the drama flourished in the works of J. Neumayer, a choreographer with a flair and knowledge of philology. He created a unique author's genre of literary ballet. The specificity of depicting the events of a literary work by means of expression in choreography is studied. Ballet drama, features of construction of a choreographic work on a literary plot are analyzed. The essence of the concepts plot and plot and composition is determined. In fiction, the plot is a system of events. The plot and the plot are inseparable from each other and are the basis of the composition. Composition is the structure of a work of art due to its content. As for the disclosure of the content in the choreographic work, this process occurs through the means of expression. The specifics of the choreographer's work on creating a one-act choreographic performance are revealed; the main stages of the director's work are listed, namely: the choice of a literary work and its ideological and thematic analysis; own interpretation and director's concept of the work; writing a compositional plan; selection and analysis of musical material; staging and rehearsal work. The work of modern directors, who take a fairy tale as the main idea of their choreographic work, is studied.
SOCIO-CULTURAL FEATURES OF SPEAKERS’ COMMUNICATIVE BEHAVIOR IN DIFFERENT SOCIAL ROLES AND THEIR TRANSLATION INTO UKRAINIAN
Authors:   National Technical University of Ukraine «Igor Sikorsky Kyiv Polytechnic Institute», Lohvynenko Myroslava
Published: January 2021

The article is a study of the features of the individual’s communicative behavior, when implementing different social roles. By analyzing the concept of the social role and status, author puts forward the classification of the most frequent social roles represented by an individual in formal and informal communication situations (that of a father, lecturer, friend, colleague, employer, employee, consultant). The work is based on the number of studied and investigated dialogical fragments, where one character appears in different social roles and uses various language means. Having considered typical communicative situations, the author also singles out linguistic and extra-linguistic means which mark the changes of speaker’s social roles, namely: elevated, sarcastic, polite, sad, ironic, joyful, neutral, strict, humorous, angry, contemptuous, intrusive, friendly, confident and other tones as well as smile, frown and raised eyebrows, laugh, direct eye contact, pointing finger, pointing the hand etc. At the next stage of the analysis the author reveals the language means that mark the changes of the speaker's social roles as well as outlines the difficulties, connected with their translation into Ukrainian. Translation of the dialogical fragments was studied in order to find out types of rendition of the means that indicate realization of different social roles by the speaker. Non-verbal communication was also researched, aiming to find out correlation between the social role of the speaker and the means, used by the speaker, according to his social role. As a result, the paper presents the analysis of such means of translation as transliteration, transcription, antonymous, descriptive, and contextual tracing, literal types of translation as well as their dependence on the social role of the speaker. So the components of intercourse let communicative behavior of the individual to be comprehensively considered. Thereby, the results of the study, their representation in per cents, as well as examples of the communicative situations and their analysis, are represented in the following article.
Visualization of Layers Within a Convolutional Neural Network Using Gradient Activation Maps
Authors: McAllister Dianna , Mendez Mauro , Bermúdez Ariana , Tyrrell Pascal
Published: January 2021

Introduction: Convolutional neural networks (CNNs) are machine learning tools that have great potential in the field of medical imaging. However, it is often regarded as a “black box” as the process that is used by the machine to acquire a result is not transparent. It would be valuable to find a method to be able to understand how the machine comes to its decision. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to examine how effective gradient-weighted class activation mapping (grad-CAM) visualizations are for certain layers in a CNN-based dental x-ray artifact prediction model.

Methods: To tackle this project, Python code using PyTorch trained a CNN to classify dental plates as unusable or usable depending on the presence of artifacts. Furthermore, Python using PyTorch was also used to overlay grad-CAM visualizations on the given input images for various layers within the model. One image with seventeen different overlays of artifacts was used in this study.

Results: In earlier layers, the model appeared to focus on general features such as lines and edges of the teeth, while in later layers, the model was more interested in detailed aspects of the image. All images that contained artifacts resulted in the model focusing on more detailed areas of the image rather than the artifacts themselves. Whereas the images without artifacts resulted in the model focusing on the visualization of areas that surrounded the teeth.

Discussion and Conclusion: As subsequent layers examined more detailed aspects of the image as shown by the grad-CAM visualizations, they provided better insight into how the model processes information when it is making its classifications. Since all the images with artifacts showed similar trends in the visualizations of the various layers, it provides evidence to suggest that the location and size of the artifact does not affect the model’s pattern recognition and image classification.
Esophageal Hiatus Hernia
Authors: Liu Wei
Published: January 2021

A 83-year-old women presented to the emergency department with epigastric pain and vomiting that had progressively worsened over a period of 1 year. Her medical history was notable for type 2 diabetes and hypertension. A physical examination revealed that breath sounds were weakened. Her abdomen was soft, with moderate epigastric tenderness and normal bowel sounds. The rest of the physical examination was unremarkable. A radiograph of the chest confirmed compression of both lungs for unknown reasons (Figure 1A). Computed tomography (CT) of the chest revealed a large hiatus hernia containing almost the entire stomach (Figure 1B). A diagnosis of esophageal hiatus hernia was made. Hiatus hernia refers to a disease status involving herniation of the contents of the abdominal cavity, especially the stomach, through esophageal hiatus of the diaphragm into the mediastinum. It is accepted that the prevalence of hiatus hernia increases with age and body mass index. The typical symptom of hiatus hernia is gastroesophageal reflux and less common symptoms are epigastric or chest pain and dysphagia. It is necessary to make a critical risk-benefit assessment mandatory before complicated and surgical treatment of hiatus hernia, usually coupled with an antireflux procedure.8,9 After a well-informed discussion of treatment options with the patient and her family, the decision was made to pursue surgery. After the procedure, she clinically improved and was discharged home with outpatient follow-up.
Komunikasi Konsep Bekerja di Era Millenial: Analisis Kritis Perubahan Konsep Lapangan Pekerjaan
Authors: Hidayatul Rachmad Teguh
Published: January 2021

The symbol of change in everything in the human sphere is marked by the disruptive era, which is an era in which activity, interaction and communication between humans changes very rapidly, especially in the field of work and the needs of human life. Work is no longer required to leave the house and must come on time at the office. The research method used is qualitative research with a critical approach. Dismantling the domination of an emancipatory spirit is one of the goals of the critical approach. The choice of social media as a place for creativity is effective because there is no filter of information in the media. everyone has the right and obligation to photos, videos and various kinds of individual works to be published on social media. Many creative content has finally appeared on social media with cultural, ethnic and religious backgrounds from different accounts. Influencers are a job that is in demand by people in the current millennial era. The era of postmodernism has changed the concept of working from the public to the private sphere. Work does not have to go to the office and meet and collaborate with many people. Work in the postmodern era can be done anywhere, for example at home, on the beach, in the mountains, in the village, in the city and does not have to meet many people.
Strategi Marketing Public Relations Jawa Timur Park Group dalam Menjalin Good Relations dengan Stakeholders
Authors: Rachmad Rinata Asfira , Sariniati Mina
Published: January 2021

The purpose of this research is to know the planning strategy of public relations Jawa Timur Park Group especially the strategy to establish good relationships with its stakeholders and support programs with the good relations. This research uses a qualitative paradigm by colaborating data from semi-structured interviews and documentation. The concepts used in his analysis are public relations planning strategies initiated by Cutlip, Center, and Broom, including making decisions about objectives and objectives, identifying deciding audiences, setting policy or strategy rules, and deciding which strtegi to use. The results of this research marketing public relations Jawa Timur Park Group made decisions that were handed over entirely to the leader of the company. Public relations also makes the purpose of the program to attract stakeholders so that they want to cooperate. In addition to identifying the audience by looking at what is their characteristic, the company has a policy or strategy rule that is to promote the understanding of the East Java park group company to all its business scopes, and decide what strategy the company will use. The strategy that has been decided in establishing relationships with East Java Park Group stakeholders is implemented through programs tailored to stakeholders' relationships. These programs are Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), special events, discounts, and additional facilities.
Strategi Komunikasi Pemasaran dalam Pengembangan Pariwisata Kabupaten Blitar Pada Penggunaan Aplikasi Amazing Blitar
Authors: Meifilina Andiwi
Published: January 2021

The purpose of this study is to determine the marketing communication strategy in the development of regional tourism in Blitar using the Amazing Blitar application. This study uses descriptive qualitative research method, with documentative data collection technique. The result showed that the use of STOP SIT marketing communication strategy in marketing communication strategy in the development of tourism in the Blitar in the use of Amazing Blitar application, namely Segmentation, Targeting, Objectives, Positioning, Sequence of Tools, Integrating, Tools. In the marketing communication strategy in the development of tourism in the Blitar area, the use of the Amazing Blitar application continues to be studied to determine the strengths and weaknesses of the Amazing Blitar application, identifying all opportunities and obstacles or threats faced. Marketing promotion or development programs are prepared by considering various aspects and analyzing the target market, namely tourists from both within and outside Blitar. In the STOP SIT marketing communication strategy must be a planning which is an introduction to the problem, namely an analysis of the external and internal environment which produces several main problems or weaknesses, strengths, threats and opportunities. So that in the STOP SIT analysis, it is better if you also know the problem or obstacle or strength that the company has, both in terms of human resource capabilities, technology applications, facilities, capitals, and networks.
MODAL SOSIAL DAN PERILAKU ORANG TUA PADA PELAKSANAAN VAKSINASI MEASLES DAN RUBELLA
Authors: Saleh Sapriadi
Published: January 2021

AbstrakPenyakit Measles dan Rubella (MR) merupakan penyakit yang dapat dicegah dengan pemberian vaksin. Pemerintah melaksanakan program vaksinasi MR secara wajib dan gratis, tetapi masih menuai pro dan kontra dalam masyarakat. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis  modal social dan perilaku orang tua dalam pelaksanaan vaksinasi MR. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode penelitian deskriptif  observasional dengan pendekatan cross sectional study yang dilaksanakan di Kecamatan Pallangga Kabupaten Gowa dengan metode pengambilan sampel yaitu purposive sampling. Adapun kriteria sampel adalah orang tua yang memiliki anak usia 9 bulan -15 tahun pada tahun 2018. yakni pada pelaksanaan vaksinasi MR tahap 2 yang dilaksanakan di luar pulau Jawa.  Instrumen pengumpulan data yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah menggunakan kuesioner. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan sebagian besar responden memiliki modal social yang baik (72,2%), terdapat 61,6% yang memiliki pengetahuan yang baik, 58,3 % memiliki sikap positif dan 52,8 % responden yang memutuskan melakukan tindakan vaksinasi kepada anaknya. Modal social memiliki peran cukup besar dalam menentukan keputusan orang tua dalam melakukan vaksinasi MR. Perilaku orang tua dalam pemberian vaksinasi MR dapat dilihat dari pengetahuan, sikap dan tindakan orang tua pada pelaksanaan vaksinasi MR. Saran : Perlu adanya penyebaran informasi yang positif yang terstruktur tentang vaksinasi MR agar dapat memanfaatkan modal social yang besar di masyarakat sehingga  terjadi penerimaan vaksinasi MR Kata Kunci : Modal Sosial, Perilaku orang tua, Vaksinasi MRAbstract
PROGRAM DANA DESA DAN PEMBERDAYAAN MASYARAKAT DI DESA SRIKATON
Authors: Pramudyasmono Dr. Hajar G
Published: January 2021

This research was conducted in Srikaton Village, Pondok Kelapa Sub-District, Central Bengkulu District. The aim is to confirm the amount of village funds allocated by the central government to this village in 2019. Then, this research also explores information about the proportion of village funds used for community empowerment. The informants of this study were selected based on purposive sampling technique. They are two village officials taking care of and knowing about the use of village funds. The data were collected by using observation, interview, and documentation methods. The collected data were then analyzed and presented using quantitative descriptive methods in the form of percentage analysis. This research notes that the village funds in Srikaton in 2019 were used to finance the construction of physical infrastructure (70%), while another 30% was used to finance community empowerment programs, such as training on entrepreneurship. The village funds were not used to grant business financial for poor families. As a result, the village fund program in Srikaton does not directly reduce poverty.Keywords: village funds, empowerment, poor families.
Investigar la historia y saber contarla. Miguel Artola (1923-2020) (Semblanza)
Authors: Martínez Cuadrado Miguel
Published: January 2021

Semblanza: Investigar la historia y saber contarla. Miguel Artola (1923-2020).
La interpretación del artículo 23 de la Constitución y el contenido del derecho a votar: una revisión.
Authors: Fernández-Fontecha Torres Manuel
Published: January 2021

El presente artículo se refiere a los principales contenidos del derecho fundamental del artículo 23 de la Constitución, en relación con una reciente sentencia del Tribunal Constitucional que plantea una cuestión relacionada con la relación horizontal entre derechos fundamentales. Sin plantear directamente la eficacia de los derechos fundamentales en las relaciones jurídico-privadas, sí que menciona que el caso examinado tiene una conexión con cuestiones derivadas de la incidencia del derecho fundamental a la participación en una relación laboral, planteando la conciliación del derecho fundamental con una actividad que se desarrolla en el ámbito jurídico-privado.
Neurobiologia do autismo infantil
Authors: Oliveira Cecília Rezende de Almeida , Souza José Carlos
Published: January 2021

Objetivo: discutir as características neurobiológicas do Transtorno do Espectro Autista (TEA) em crianças. Metodologia: foi realizada uma revisão narrativa com artigos dos últimos 10 anos (2010-2020), nas bases de dados PsycINFO, Medline, PubMed, SciELO, LILACS e Periódicos CAPES. Utilizaram-se como descritores “Autismo Infantil”, “Transtorno Autista”, “Infância”, “Ciclo Vital”, “Neurodesenvolvimento Infantil”, “Neurobiologia”, “Neurociências”, “Neuroanatomia”, “Neurofisiologia”, “Transtorno do Espectro Autista” e o Booleano “AND”. Todos estes materiais foram lidos na íntegra, categorizados e, posteriormente, analisados criticamente. Resultados e discussão: em indivíduos com TEA, há uma diminuição da conectividade entre o córtex pré-frontal medial e o córtex cingulado posterior; esta diminuição está relacionada a uma função social inferior quando comparada com crianças normais. Alteração semelhante foi encontrada em relação à rede frontoparietal relacionando-se aos comportamentos repetitivos observados no transtorno. Há, também, a hipótese relacionada a uma disfunção cerebelar e, mais especificamente, que a deleção da Proteína 1 do Complexo Esclerose Tuberosa (TSC1) – gene que codifica a proteína hamartina – nas células de Purkinje, reflita nos déficits sociais e comportamentais em indivíduos com TEA. Além disso, é sugerido que o fenótipo do transtorno esteja associado a uma perturbação nos circuitos que conectam o cerebelo ao córtex pré-frontal medial e, também, a uma maior ativação desta última região. Conclusão: ainda não se tem uma conclusão satisfatória e patognomônica da neurobiologia do TEA em crianças; as alterações neurofuncionais mais comuns no TEA estão relacionadas às redes cerebelares e às Células de Purkinje.
Tratamento cirúrgico de fratura bilateral de mandíbula atrófica: Relato de caso
Authors: Oliveira Mirlany Mendes Maciel , Almeida Arthur Caetano de , Lauand Gustavo Amaral , Santos Daniela Meneses , Silva Cláudia Jordão , Lima Felipe Gomes Gonçalves Peres
Published: January 2021

A atrofia mandibular ocorre em virtude de diversos fatores como periodontite, lesões periapicais, perda dentária precoce, uso de próteses mal adaptadas que promovem a reabsorção óssea ao longo do tempo. Esta condição proporciona fragilidade à estrutura óssea remanescente e susceptibilidade á fraturas. As fraturas de mandíbula atrófica configuram-se um desafio ao Cirurgião Buco-Maxilo-Facial em virtude de diversas peculiaridades no manejo do tratamento e reabilitação oral. O tratamento de escolha para pacientes com fratura de mandíbula atrófica é o cirúrgico, que objetiva reduzir e imobilizar os segmentos da fratura, de modo a restaurar a estética e a função. Deste modo, uma avaliação individualizada deve ser realizada na busca da melhor biomecânica do material de osteossíntese a ser utilizado, pois uma adequada estabilidade pode ser conseguida através de diversos métodos de fixação. O objetivo deste trabalho é relatar um caso clínico de um paciente do gênero masculino, vítima de acidente com animal de grande porte evoluindo com fratura bilateral de corpo de mandíbula atrófica. Optou-se pela realização do tratamento cirúrgico da fratura com simplificação dos cotos ósseos da fratura com uso de miniplacas e posterior instalação de placa do sistema load-bearing evoluindo no período pós-operatório sem intercorrências.
IMPLEMENTASI METODE SAVING MATRIX PADA SISTEM INFORMASI DISTRIBUSI BARANG
Authors: Mirza Ahmad Haidar , Irawan Dedi
Published: January 2021

Distribution of goods becomes a separate priority within a company, especially with regard to distribution routes. This condition will become complex if there are many branches in the process of distributing goods. For this reason, in this research, calculations were carried out in the process of travelling in distributing goods. To perform these calculations, a method is used, namely the saving matrix method. To carry out this implementation, a goods distribution information system is created with calculations in the distribution of goods using a saving matrix. The results of the research are in the form of information systems developed with a waterfall model with features ranging from processing goods data, customer data, demand data, shipping data, route data and saving matrix calculation data. From the resulting information system, it can also be seen clearly the distance travelled in the distribution of goods so that it can easily determine travel facilities for deliverymen.

 

Distribusi barang menjadi prioritas tersendiri di dalam sebuah perusahaan terutama berkaitan dengan rute distribusi. Konidisi tersebut akan menjadi komplek jika terdapat banyak cabang dalam proses distribusi barang. Untuk itu di dalam peneltian ini dilakukan dilakukan perhitungan dalam proses perjalanan dalam melakukan distribusi barang. Untuk melakukan perhitungan tersebut digunakan sebuah metode yaitu método saving matrix. Untuk melakukan implementasi tersebut maka dibuat sebuah sistema informasi distribusi barang dengan dilengkapi perhitungan dalam distribusi barang dengan saving matrix. Hasil dari penelitian berupa sistema informasi yang dikembangkan dengan waterfall model dengan fitur mulai dari pengolahan data barang, data pelanggan, data permintaan, data pengiriman, data rute dan data peritungan saving matrix. Dari sistema informasi yang dihasilkan juga dapat diketahui dengan jelas jarak tempuh dalam distribusi barang sehingga dapat dengan mudah dalam menentukan fasilitas perjalanan bagi pengantar barang.
IMPLEMENTASI ALGORITMA MONTE CARLO TREE SEARCH PADA PERMAINAN 2048 BERBASIS WEB
Authors: Kennedy Alvin , Savira Nur Fanny , Gunawan Stefanus Andree , Hakim Lukman
Published: January 2021

Kecerdasan Buatan adalah sebuah inovasi baru dalam ilmu pengetahuan komputer modern yang digunakan untuk bermain game. Game sangat diminati oleh banyak orang, ada juga seseorang yang membuat kecerdasan buatan untuk memainkan game puzzle yaitu 2048 yang dapat dimainkan secara otomatis oleh komputer dengan algoritma Monte Carlo Tree Search melalui web. Monte Carlo Tree Search merupakan algoritma komputasi yang menggunakan sampel acak. Website yang dirancang menggunakan flowchart dan UML serta dibuat menggunakan JavaScript sebagai UX dengan bantuan HTML sebagai UI yang dapat dimainkan oleh AI dengan nilai runsnya dimasukkan oleh user dan melakukan pengujian untuk membandingkan hasil perbedaan antar setiap nilai runs dengan pengujian sebanyak 5 kali. Algoritma Monte Carlo Tree Search dapat diterapkan dalam permainan game 2048.
PERANCANGAN DAN IMPLEMENTASI JARINGAN FAILOVER MENGGUNAKAN PROTOKOL SPANNING TREE PADA PT. PLN UP3B KALIMANTAN TIMUR
Authors: Djumhadi Djumhadi , Roring Riovan Styx
Published: January 2021

The availability of electricity is very reliable as a main of supporting component in development progress and economic growth. PT. PLN as an authorized implementation unit for distributing and regulating electricity supply from the power plant to the transmission line requires a reliable network communication system for its operations, as a facility to connect all of its main substations. The disruption of the information network is an important thing that must be avoided in the company so that it does not interfere the distribution of information. The reliable information distribution methods from the main office to the branch offices should be failover that uses backup links in all branch offices as a solution to keep the information network system reliable by using the protocol of spanning tree and VLAN configuration on the routers and manageable switches. Having used the failover method on a network system, it is expected to help the company to always keep reliable in distributing information to all substations so that information loss can be drastically reduced.
Mesék befogadásának mérése – egy lehetséges modell
Authors: Kopházi-Molnár Erzsébet
Published: January 2021

Gyerekek körében felmérést végezni mindig nagy kihívás. Ha nagy mintát szeretnénk felmérni, az különösen időigényes feladat lehet. Ha kérdőívet szeretnénk kitöltetni velük, nem biztos, hogy azt az információt kapjuk, amire igazán vágyunk. Ha a mesélés során szerzett élményeiket szeretnénk megragadni a hallott mesével kapcsolatban, ez igazán nehéz erőpróba jelent. Könnyű abba a hibába esni, hogy az általunk fontosnak vélt információra vagyunk kíváncsiak a történet megértésével kapcsolatban, s erről inkább kikérdezni szeretnénk őket, aztán végül nem a saját élményeik jönnek elő. A jelen kutatás célja az volt, hogy bemutasson egy lehetséges modellt, melynek segítségével kicsi gyerekek körében is viszonylag egyszerűen végezhetünk felmérést a mesehallgatás során szerzett élményekről. A szabad szóasszociáció módszerével azt vizsgáltuk, hogy a gyerekek hogy viszonyulnak különböző meseátirat-típusokhoz, illetve az eredeti történetekhez.A fő kutatást megelőzően egy elővizsgálatot végeztünk, melynek során közel négyszáz, főként második osztályos diák szavakat és kifejezéseket írt le azzal kapcsolatban, mitől tetszenek nekik a mesék. Az itemek listázása után kódolókat kértünk fel, hogy a megjegyzéseket rendezzék különböző kategóriákba – ezek adták aztán a későbbi összehasonlítások alapját. Hat olyan mesepárt választottunk (egy klasszikus történetet és annak modern párját), melyek közül a modern verzió az átiratfajták egy-egy típusát képviselte. Egy előtesztelést követően a mesepárokat elmeséltük hat különböző iskolában harminc második osztályos tanulónak (tizenöt fiúnak és tizenöt lánynak). A szabad szóasszociáció mellett használtunk egy hat hőmérőt ábrázoló lapot, melyek a kéktől a piros színig terjedő színárnyalatokkal fejeztek ki egy-egy értéket, egy tulajdonképpen hatfokozatú skálán. Ezen a megkérdezetteknek meg kellett jelölniük a tetszés fokát, majd a lap hátoldalán le kellett írniuk azokat a kifejezéseket vagy szavakat, hogy mitől tetszett nekik az adott mese. A lapokat kóddal láttuk el, és a hőmérőn található értékeket SPSS-programmal kiértékeltük. Ezek az értékek azonban nem minden esetben estek egybe azzal, amit (és amennyit!) a gyerekek a tetszésről írtak. Így a kapott értékek és az írásbeli válaszok egybevetése igazán izgalmas feladatot jelentett.
Cellular Fragments in the Perivitelline Space Are Not a Predictor of Expanded Blastocyst Quality
Authors: Yu Bo , van Tol Helena T. A. , Stout Tom A. E. , Roelen Bernard A. J.
Published: January 2021

The presence of cellular fragments in the perivitelline space is a commonly used parameter to determine quality before transfer of in vitro produced (IVP) embryos. However, this parameter is difficult to assess after blastocyst expansion. In this study, we used mechanical hatching to confirm the presence of cellular fragments in the perivitelline space of bovine IVP blastocysts. We further looked for associations between possible apoptosis within extruded cells/ cellular fragments and the quality of bovine blastocysts using quantitative RT-PCR and immunofluorescence. Surprisingly, more than 42% of expanded blastocysts had cellular fragments in the perivitelline space; however, more than 37% of extruded cells were TUNEL negative. We observed no significant difference in embryo quality between expanded blastocysts with and without cellular fragments in the perivitelline space. Overall, our data suggest that embryos extrude abnormal cells to maintain their developmental potential. The presence of fragmented cells is not an indicator of embryo quality.
Mitochondrial Ion Channels of the Inner Membrane and Their Regulation in Cell Death Signaling
Authors: Urbani Andrea , Prosdocimi Elena , Carrer Andrea , Checchetto Vanessa , Szabò Ildikò
Published: January 2021

Mitochondria are bioenergetic organelles with a plethora of fundamental functions ranging from metabolism and ATP production to modulation of signaling events leading to cell survival or cell death. Ion channels located in the outer and inner mitochondrial membranes critically control mitochondrial function and, as a consequence, also cell fate. Opening or closure of mitochondrial ion channels allow the fine-tuning of mitochondrial membrane potential, ROS production, and function of the respiratory chain complexes. In this review, we critically discuss the intracellular regulatory factors that affect channel activity in the inner membrane of mitochondria and, indirectly, contribute to cell death. These factors include various ligands, kinases, second messengers, and lipids. Comprehension of mitochondrial ion channels regulation in cell death pathways might reveal new therapeutic targets in mitochondria-linked pathologies like cancer, ischemia, reperfusion injury, and neurological disorders.
A Mini Review on the Cold Flow Properties of Biodiesel and its Blends
Authors: Hazrat M. A. , Rasul M. G. , Mofijur M. , Khan M. M. K. , Djavanroodi F. , Azad A. K. , Bhuiya M. M. K. , Silitonga A.S.
Published: January 2021

Biodiesels are renewable fuel that may be produced from various feedstock using different techniques. It is endorsed in some countries of the world as a viable substitute to diesel fuel. While biodiesel possesses numerous benefits, the cold flow properties (CFP) of biodiesel in comparison with petro-diesel are significantly less satisfactory. This is due to the presence of saturated and unsaturated fatty acid esters. The poor CFP of biodiesel subsequently affects performance in cold weather and damages the engine fuel system, as well as chokes the fuel filter, fuel inlet lines, and injector nozzle. Previously, attempts were made to minimize the damaging impact of bad cold flow through the reduction of pour point, cloud point, and the cold filter plugging point of biodiesel. This study is focused on the biodiesel CFP-related mechanisms and highlights the factors that initialize and pace the crystallization process. This review indicates that the CFP of biodiesel fuel can be improved by utilizing different techniques. Winterisation of some biodiesel has been shown to improve CFP significantly. Additives such as polymethyl acrylate improved CFP by 3-9 ° C. However, it is recommended that improvement methods in terms of fuel properties and efficiency should be carefully studied and tested before being implemented in industrial applications as this might impact biodiesel yield, cetane number, etc.
Rheumatoid Arthritis Synovial Fluid Neutrophils Drive Inflammation Through Production of Chemokines, Reactive Oxygen Species, and Neutrophil Extracellular Traps
Authors: Wright Helen L. , Lyon Max , Chapman Elinor A. , Moots Robert J. , Edwards Steven W.
Published: January 2021

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disorder affecting synovial joints. Neutrophils are believed to play an important role in both the initiation and progression of RA, and large numbers of activated neutrophils are found within both synovial fluid (SF) and synovial tissue from RA joints. In this study we analyzed paired blood and SF neutrophils from patients with severe, active RA (DAS28>5.1, n=3) using RNA-seq. 772 genes were significantly different between blood and SF neutrophils. IPA analysis predicted that SF neutrophils had increased expression of chemokines and ROS production, delayed apoptosis, and activation of signaling cascades regulating the production of NETs. This activated phenotype was confirmed experimentally by incubating healthy control neutrophils in cell-free RA SF, which was able to delay apoptosis and induce ROS production in both unprimed and TNFα primed neutrophils (p<0.05). RA SF significantly increased neutrophil migration through 3μM transwell chambers (p<0.05) and also increased production of NETs by healthy control neutrophils (p<0.001), including exposure of myeloperoxidase (MPO) and citrullinated histone-H3-positive DNA NETs. IPA analysis predicted NET production was mediated by signaling networks including AKT, RAF1, SRC, and NF-κB. Our results expand the understanding of the molecular changes that take place in the neutrophil transcriptome during migration into inflamed joints in RA, and the altered phenotype in RA SF neutrophils. Specifically, RA SF neutrophils lose their migratory properties, residing within the joint to generate signals that promote joint damage, as well as inflammation via recruitment and activation of both innate and adaptive immune cells. We propose that this activated SF neutrophil phenotype contributes to the chronic inflammation and progressive damage to cartilage and bone observed in patients with RA.
Immune Checkpoint-Related Gene Polymorphisms Are Associated With Primary Immune Thrombocytopenia
Authors: Wang Shuwen , Zhang Xiaoyu , Leng Shaoqiu , Xu Qirui , Sheng Zi , Zhang Yanqi , Yu Jie , Feng Qi , Hou Ming , Peng Jun , Hu Xiang
Published: January 2021

Cancer immunotherapy by immune checkpoint blockade has been effective in the treatment of certain tumors. However, the association between immune checkpoints and autoimmune diseases remains elusive and requires urgent investigation. Primary immune thrombocytopenia (ITP), characterized by reduced platelet count and a consequent increased risk of bleeding, is an autoimmune disorder with a hyper-activated T cell response. Here, we investigated the contribution of immune checkpoint-related single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), including CD28, ICOS, PD1, TNFSF4, DNAM1, TIM3, CTLA4, and LAG3 to the susceptibility and therapeutic effects of ITP. In this case-control study, 307 ITP patients and 295 age-matched healthy participants were recruited. We used the MassARRAY system for genotyping immune checkpoint-related SNPs. Our results revealed that rs1980422 in CD28 was associated with an increased risk of ITP after false discovery rate correction (codominant, CT vs. TT, OR = 1.788, 95% CI = 1.178–2.713, p = 0.006). In addition, CD28 expression at both the mRNA and protein levels was significantly higher in patients with CT than in those with the TT genotype (p = 0.028 and p = 0.001, respectively). Furthermore, the T allele of PD1 rs36084323 was a risk factor for ITP severity and the T allele of DNAM1 rs763361 for corticosteroid-resistance. In contrast, the T allele of LAG3 rs870849 was a protective factor for ITP severity, and the T allele of ICOS rs6726035 was protective against corticosteroid-resistance. The TT/CT genotypes of PD1 rs36084323 also showed an 8.889-fold increase in the risk of developing refractory ITP. This study indicates that immune checkpoint-related SNPs, especially CD28 rs1980422, may be genetic factors associated with the development and treatment of ITP patients. Our results shed new light on prognosis prediction, disease severity, and discovering new therapeutic targets.
Morphogenesis of the Ciliature During Sexual Process of Conjugation in the Ciliated Protist Euplotes raikovi
Authors: Asghar Usman , Chi Yong , Gao Yunyi , Lu Borong , Jiang Yaohan , Gong Ruitao , Ma Honggang , Al-Rasheid Khaled A. S. , Gao Feng
Published: January 2021

Morphogenesis is an important process that widely occurs in almost all the organisms, including the ciliated protists. Ciliates are a large group of single-celled eukaryotes that can reproduce asexually (e.g., binary fission) and perform sexual process (e.g., conjugation). Morphogenesis happens in both asexual reproduction and sexual process in ciliates and the reorganization during conjugation is more complex. However, studies of morphogenesis focusing on conjugation are very limited. Here we studied the morphogenetic process during conjugation in the marine species Euplotes raikovi Agamaliev, 1966. The results indicate that: (1) the ciliature in the ventral side reorganizes twice during sexual process, i.e., conjugational and postconjugational reorganization; (2) the adoral zone of membranelles (AZM) is generated de novo in a pouch beneath the cortex during both reorganizations, with the anterior part generated during the first reorganization, while the posterior part formed during the second reorganization; (3) the frontoventral-transverse (FVT) cirri anlagen are formed de novo in both processes with the fragmentation pattern of 2:2:3:3:2; (4) one left marginal cirrus is generated de novo during both reorganizations; and (5) the dorsal ciliature remains intact during the whole process, except that the two caudal cirri originate from the end of the right-most two dorsal kineties during both reorganizations. Comparisons of the morphogenetic process during conjugation demonstrate a considerably stable pattern within Euplotes while the patterns vary dramatically among different ciliate groups.
Mixed Method Study to Explore Ethical Dilemmas and Health Care Workers' Willingness to Work Amid COVID-19 Pandemic in Palestine
Authors: Maraqa Beesan , Nazzal Zaher , Zink Therese
Published: January 2021

Background: The high potential risks involved in working in a healthcare setting during a pandemic and the associated fear that may affect health care workers' (HCWs') willingness to work are important to understand to eliminate potential barriers to working. This study aimed to assess Palestinian HCWs' willingness to work and the related factors as well as to explore their ethical dilemmas during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.

Materials and Methods: Quantitative (survey questionnaire) and qualitative (semi-structured interviews) data were collected. Frontline HCWs (n = 550) received an online survey link via closed institutional networks. Frequencies summarized the data, and chi-square compared variables and outcomes. Odds ratios (ORs) and multivariable analysis examined predictors for willingness to work. Fifteen HCWs (physicians, nurses, and lab and radiology technicians) were purposefully sampled and agreed to interviews to explore their thoughts, motivations, and worries. Thematic analysis focused on ethical dilemmas to enhance the breadth and the depth of the study.

Results: Almost 25% of surveyed HCWs were not willing to work during the pandemic. Logistic model results showed that physicians and nurses had higher willingness to work than others (p = 0.004, Adj. OR = 3.5). Lower stress levels and longer professional experience were predictors of more willing to work (p = 0.03, Adj. OR = 2.5; p = 0.03, Adj. OR = 2.6, respectively). Interviews showed that willingness to work did not preclude HCWs from fulfilling their duties despite grueling workloads and grave fears about safety and security. HCWs felt poorly prepared, unappreciated, and frustrated by unfair work distribution. The occupation presented additional safety issues.

Conclusion: Physicians and nurses were more likely to comply with a commitment to their professional ethics and the duty or obligation to work. Stress levels could be mitigated in the future with better leadership, adding supports to address mental health and psychosocial challenges to enhance HCWs' well-being and improve quality of care. The realities of the occupation added additional threats and uncertainty.
Broader Impacts for Ecologists: Biological Soil Crust as a Model System for Education
Authors: Faist Akasha M. , Antoninka Anita J. , Barger Nichole N. , Bowker Matthew A. , Chaudhary V. Bala , Havrilla Caroline A. , Huber-Sannwald Elisabeth , Reed Sasha C. , Weber Bettina
Published: January 2021

Biological soil crusts (biocrusts) are a complex community of algae, cyanobacteria, lichens, bryophytes, and assorted bacteria, fungi, archaea, and bacteriophages that colonize the soil surface. Biocrusts are particularly common in drylands and are found in arid and semiarid ecosystems worldwide. While diminutive in size, biocrusts often cover large terrestrial areas, provide numerous ecosystem benefits, enhance biodiversity, and are found in multiple configurations and assemblages across different climate and disturbance regimes. Biocrusts have been a focus of many ecologists, especially those working in semiarid and arid lands, as biocrusts are foundational community members, play fundamental roles in ecosystem processes, and offer rare opportunities to study biological interactions at small and large spatial scales. Due to these same characteristics, biocrusts have the potential to serve as an excellent teaching tool. The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate the utility of biocrust communities as a model system in science education. Functioning as portable, dynamic mini ecosystems, biocrusts can be used to teach about organisms, biodiversity, biotic interactions, abiotic controls, ecosystem processes, and even global change, and can be easy to use in nearly every classroom setup. For example, education principles, such as evolution and adaptation to stress, or structure and function (patterns and processes) can be applied by bringing biocrusts into the classroom as a teaching tool. In addition, discussing the utility of biocrusts in the classroom – including theory, hypothesis testing, experimentation, and hands-on learning – this document also provides tips and resources for developing education tools and activities geared toward impactful learning.
Neurofeedback of Alpha Activity on Memory in Healthy Participants: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Yeh Wen-Hsiu , Hsueh Jen-Jui , Shaw Fu-Zen
Published: January 2021

Background: Neurofeedback training (NFT) has recently been proposed as a valuable technique for cognitive enhancement and psychiatric amelioration. However, effect of NFT of alpha activity on memory is controversial. The current study analyzed previous works in terms of randomized and blinded analyses, training paradigms, and participant characteristics to validate the efficacy of alpha NFT on memory in a healthy population.

Objectives: A systematic meta-analysis of studies with randomized controlled trials was performed to explore the effect of alpha NFT on working memory (WM) and episodic memory (EM) in a healthy population.

Methods: We searched PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library from January 1, 1999, to November 30, 2019. Previous studies were evaluated with the Cochrane risk of bias (RoB). A meta-analysis calculating absolute weighted standardized mean difference (SMD) using random-effects models was employed. Heterogeneity was estimated using I2 statistics. Funnel plots and Egger's test were performed to evaluate the quality of evidence.

Results: Sixteen studies with 217 healthy participants in the control group and 210 participants in the alpha group met the eligibility criteria. Alpha NFT studies with WM measures presented little publication bias (P = 0.116), and 5 of 7 domains in the Cochrane RoB exhibited a low risk of bias. The overall effect size from 14 WM studies was 0.56 (95% CI 0.31–0.81, P < 0.0001; I2 = 28%). Six EM studies exhibited an effect size of 0.77 (95% CI 0.06–1.49, P = 0.03; I2 = 77%).

Conclusion: Meta-analysis results suggest that alpha NFT seems to have a positive effect on the WM and EM of healthy participants. Future efforts should focus on the neurophysiological mechanisms of alpha NFT in memory.
The Role of Affectionate Caregiver Touch in Early Neurodevelopment and Parent–Infant Interactional Synchrony
Authors: Carozza Sofia , Leong Victoria
Published: January 2021

Though rarely included in studies of parent–infant interactions, affectionate touch plays a unique and vital role in infant development. Previous studies in human and rodent models have established that early and consistent affectionate touch from a caregiver confers wide-ranging and holistic benefits for infant psychosocial and neurophysiological development. We begin with an introduction to the neurophysiological pathways for the positive effects of touch. Then, we provide a brief review of how affectionate touch tunes the development of infant somatosensory, autonomic (stress regulation), and immune systems. Affective touch also plays a foundational role in the establishment of social affiliative bonds and early psychosocial behavior. These touch-related bonding effects are known to be mediated primarily by the oxytocin system, but touch also activates mesocorticolimbic dopamine and endogenous opioid systems which aid the development of social cognitive processes such as social learning and reward processing. We conclude by proposing a unique role for affectionate touch as an essential pathway to establishing and maintaining parent-infant interactional synchrony at behavioral and neural levels. The limitations of the current understanding of affectionate touch in infant development point to fruitful avenues for future research.
Mental Health Outcomes in Healthcare Workers in COVID-19 and Non-COVID-19 Care Units: A Cross-Sectional Survey in Belgium
Authors: Tiete Julien , Guatteri Magda , Lachaux Audrey , Matossian Araxie , Hougardy Jean-Michel , Loas Gwenolé , Rotsaert Marianne
Published: January 2021

Background

The literature shows the negative psychological impact of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak on frontline healthcare workers. However, few are known about the mental health of physicians and nurses working in general hospitals during the outbreak, caring for patients with COVID-19 or not.

Objectives

This survey assessed differences in mental health in physicians and nurses working in COVID-19 or non-COVID-19 medical care units.

Design

A cross-sectional mixed-mode survey was used to assess burnout, insomnia, depression, anxiety, and stress.

Setting

A total of 1,244 physicians and nurses from five general hospitals in Belgium, working in COVID-19 care units (CCU), non-COVID-19 care units (NCCU), or both (CCU + NCCU) were informed of the study.

Participants

Six hundred forty-seven healthcare workers participated in the survey (response rate = 52%).

Measurements

Validated instruments were used to assess the outcomes: the PFI (burnout/professional fulfillment), the ISI (insomnia), and the DASS-21 (depression, anxiety, and stress).

Results

Results showed high prevalence of burnout, insomnia, depression, and anxiety among participants. After adjusting for confounders, multivariate analysis of variance showed no differences between CCU, NCCU, and CCU + NCCU workers. Univariate general linear models showed higher level of burnout, insomnia, and anxiety among nurses in comparison to physicians. Being a nurse, young, isolated, with an increased workload were risk factors for worse mental health outcomes.

Limitations

The mental health of the tested sample, before the outbreak, is unknown. Moreover, this cross-sectional design provides no information on the evolution of the mental health outcomes over time.

Conclusion

Directly caring for patients with COVID-19 is not associated with worse mental health outcomes among healthcare workers in general hospitals. High prevalence of burnout, insomnia, depression, and anxiety among physicians and nurses requires special attention, and specific interventions need to be implemented.

Protocol Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov, identifier NCT04344145.