bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
DO PERSONALITY AND GENDER MITIGATE THE ADVERSE EFFECTS OF EMOTIONAL LABOR? EMPIRICAL EVIDENCE FROM HEALTHCARE DURING COVID-19 PANDEMIC
Authors: Javed Saman , Batool Noshaba
Published: April 2021

Purpose: The impact of emotional labor on organizational outcomes is contingent upon numerous factors. Moreover, after the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic worldwide, the implications of emotional labour practices, especially among physicians, have become more uncertain. This study aims to address these notions by examining the multigroup moderating effect of social and enterprising personalities and gender on a model of emotional labour. The aim is to determine whether emotional labour affects emotional exhaustion and well-being varies across these groups.

Methodology: Serial mediation and multigroup moderation methods were employed to test the proposed hypotheses. Data was collected from 400 physicians across Pakistan. Snowball sampling method was adopted for data collection. Structural equation modelling, including serial mediation and multigroup moderation techniques were employed for data analysis.

Main Findings: Physicians with highly social personalities and low enterprising personalities are more likely to experience detrimental effects of surface acting. Genuine emotions improve well-being for high social and enterprising as well as low enterprising personality physicians. No across-group differences exist for deep acting. For gender, females are found to be more susceptible to negative repercussions of emotional labor than their male counterparts. Positive effect of genuine emotions remains somewhat the same for both.

Implications/Applications: This study assists healthcare organizations in making the right choices during the recruitment and selection process to choose the most suitable candidates for tasks involving emotional labor, i.e., ones whose personality and gender attributes are aligned with the affective or emotional component of work. This would aid in ensuring doctors’ high psychological and physical well-being at work.

Novelty/Originality of this study: This research proposes a model of emotional labour strategies and their effects on physicians' emotional exhaustion and well-being. Multigroup moderating effects of two personality types, i.e., social and enterprising, and gender, are investigated with respect to the proposed model to see if there lie any differences between physicians belonging to various personality or gender groups.
SEMI-STRONG FORM EFFICIENCY OF GOLD MARKET: COLLECTIVE RATIONALISATION AND ISLAMIC CALENDAR ANOMALY
Authors: Bashir Taqadus , Wadood Misbah , Mujtaba Ammara , Idrees Hira , Toqeer Ammara , Furrukh Ayesha
Published: April 2021

Purpose: The current study aimed to test the impact of two religious months on the return behaviour of the gold market in Pakistan under informational efficiency hypothesis i.e. to empirically test the semi-strong form of EMH in gold market for religious calendar anomaly.

Methodology: Weekly gold prices in rupees per one gram that prevailed in Pakistan for the period January 2007 till December 2015 were selected, summing up to 468 observations. Data was taken from World Gold Council and the Bullion-rate database. Event methodology was employed for capturing and analyzing the pre and post event reactions by calculating abnormal returns. Furthermore, average security return variability was employed for robustness check. 

Main Findings: Opposing results were achieved for both the lunar calendar occurrences where the gold market is inefficient for the month of Ramazan but is found efficient in Muharram's case concluding into mixed evidence and findings.

Implications/Applications: The contribution of this study differs from previous gold studies in two aspects; first the research investigated the effect of Ramazan and Muharram as Islamic calendar events, and second is that gold market prices of Pakistan that had not been examined earlier. So this study is adding to the literature in the sense of examining the new relationship in Pakistan.

Novelty/Originality of this study: Extensive literature can be found about the global gold market that tested the weak form efficiency, but empirical evidence related to the semi-strong form efficiency of the gold market in Pakistan is not available neither the calendar anomaly related to the gold market is available. The dynamics of this very highly valuable and volatile asset market require investigation of such type.
Trayectorias en la encrucijada: los factores de desenganche y reenganche educativo de los jóvenes en Cataluña (España)
Authors: Montes Alejandro
Published: April 2021

El Abandono Escolar Prematuro (AEP) es una problemática educativa y social de primer orden. En el contexto europeo, se hace patente que tanto España (24%) como Cataluña (24,9%) se ubican muy por encima de la media europea (12,8%) y del objetivo fijado por la Comisión Europea en la Estrategia Europa 2020 (10%). Sin embargo, como muestran los datos, en los últimos años se ha producido una reducción del mismo, acompañado de un aumento del retorno. En este contexto se enmarca este artículo, analizando los dos fenómenos tanto por separado como en su conjunto, identificando aquellos factores que inciden con mayor relevancia en su desarrollo, así como intentando establecer vínculos entre el abandono y el retorno, con el objetivo de obtener una comprensión poliédrica de la trayectoria de estos jóvenes.
Las tensiones del populismo en el poder. Pueblo e instituciones en la teoría de Ernesto Laclau
Authors: Miró Artigas Joan
Published: April 2021

Una de las pocas conclusiones compartidas por la creciente bibliografía sobre populismo afirma el inherente carácter anti-institucional de este, por lo que la existencia de populismos en el poder aparece a menudo como una aporía. El populismo, ya sea por una supuesta tendencia al conflicto antagonista, al espontaneísmo o a la irresponsabilidad institucional tendería a socavar el normal funcionamiento de las instituciones y sería por tanto incapaz de gobernarlas sin grandes sobresaltos. Sin embargo, la realidad empírica indica todo lo contrario: no solo han existido y existen populismos en el poder, sino que además, en numerosas ocasiones, los populismos han actuado como motores de construcción institucional. Este artículo analiza pues, desde un punto de vista teórico, las contradicciones que afrontan los populismos cuando llegan al gobierno de las instituciones. Para ello se vale de la interpretación posestructuralista del populismo elaborada por Ernesto Laclau, según la cual populismo e institucionalismo constituyen posibilidades incompatibles (y a la vez recíprocamente necesarias) de estructuración de la vida política en la medida en que están animadas por lógicas discursivas opuestas. A partir del desarrollo de las implicaciones de estas lógicas, el artículo fórmula las tres contradicciones principales que afronta un discurso populista en el poder: entre ser pueblo y ser Estado, entre ser gobierno y ser calle/oposición, y entre ser ruptura pero gobernar continuidad. Finalmente, a través del concepto de “tensión creativa” de García-Linera, el artículo tensiona el marco teórico laclausiano para abrir nuevas rutas estratégicas por donde poder repensar las (no erradicables) contradicciones entre populismo e institucionalismo, enfatizando la potencial productividad política de las mismas. 
¿Voto nacionalista? Las bases electorales de AGE y En Marea en las elecciones autonómicas de 2012 y 2015
Authors: Rama Caamaño José , Fernández Esquer Carlos , Pantín Morado José Manuel
Published: April 2021

En las diez elecciones que se han celebrado a nivel autonómico en Galicia (de 1981 a 2016) los partidos nacionalistas han obtenido representación política. La evolución del voto a estos partidos ha atravesado tres etapas. En la primera, fueron varias las formaciones que entraron en el Parlamento gallego y lo hicieron con un discurso centrado en el eje territorial y en la defensa identitaria. En la segunda etapa, el Bloque Nacionalista Gallego pasó a ser el partido hegemónico del nacionalismo gallego. Por último, las elecciones de 2012, que constituyen el inicio de la tercera etapa, habrían de marcar un nuevo rumbo electoral: la aparición de Alternativa Galega de Esquerdas y, posteriormente, de En Marea, han alterado la competición política en Galicia en torno a la dimensión nacionalista. Ambas coaliciones, con un discurso claramente galleguista, gozaron del apoyo de un notable número votantes que, sin embargo, optaron por dichas formaciones no precisamente por su defensa territorial. Este trabajo explora la evolución del nacionalismo gallego, centrándose de manera especial en su tercera fase. Así, buscamos determinar cuáles fueron los principales factores explicativos del voto a Alternativa Galega de Esquerdas en 2012 y a En Marea en 2016.     
Narrativas y representaciones de la maternidad en edad adolescente
Authors: Hernández Cordero Ana Lucía
Published: April 2021

En esta nota de investigación exponemos los principales planteamientos y hallazgos del estudio titulado “Relatos de Madres adolescentes en la España actual” patrocinado por el Centro Reina Sofía sobre Adolescencia y Juventud (FAD), por la Dirección General de Igualdad y Familias del Gobierno de Aragón y por el Grupo de Estudio sobre la Sociedad del Riesgo de la Universidad de Zaragoza, y publicado a finales de 2017. En el estudio analizamos la maternidad adolescente desde la propia experiencia de 32 jóvenes madres españolas para conocer sus vivencias y demandas y plantear medidas que faciliten su inserción social. En particular, hacemos hincapié en los significados que ellas otorgan a su embarazo, parto y crianza infantil al mismo tiempo que realizan su transición a la vida adulta.
Judicialización y Politización. El caso de la Fecundación In Vitro (FIV) en Costa Rica
Authors: Sáenz Leandro Ronald Andrés
Published: April 2021

En esta nota de investigación se propone un modelo para el estudio de las relaciones entre los Poderes Ejecutivo y Judicial en Costa Rica desde la óptica de los estudios enmarcados en la judicial politics. Se trata el caso de la técnica de Fecundación In Vitro como un ejemplo de judicialización desde el exterior y, a partir de estas dinámicas, estudia las distintas coyunturas inmersas en este proceso como «juegos en forma extensiva». Del análisis se puede concluir que la Sala Constitucional, para el caso de Costa Rica, presenta un protagonismo a la hora de intentar revertir políticas públicas emanadas desde el Poder Ejecutivo.
Barcelona okupa! Una posible historia de la okupación en Barcelona
Authors: Tutor Anton Aritz
Published: April 2021

La okupación, acto marginalizado y enmarcado durante muchos años a y hacia una comunidad concreta y señalada, en los últimos años ha visto aumentado sus efectivos; lo cual significa que capas más amplias de la población la apropian y la entienden como válido para actuar, reivindicar y crear. La PAH o los movimientos derivados del alterglobalismo o del 15M son ejemplos de ello y muestran la actualidad y versatilidad del movimiento de okupación. El artículo transita los diferentes periodos y momentos del movimiento de okupación en Barcelona, una de las ciudades donde mayor es su presencia y su fortaleza.
Using Innovative Methods to Explore the Potential of an Alerting Dashboard for Science Inquiry
Authors: Dickler Rachel , Gobert Janice , Sao Pedro Michael
Published: April 2021

Educational technologies, such as teacher dashboards, are being developed to support teachers’ instruction and students’ learning. Specifically, dashboards support teachers in providing the just-in-time instruction needed by students in complex contexts such as science inquiry. In this study, we used the Inq-Blotter teacher-alerting dashboard to investigate whether teacher support elicited by the technology influenced students’ inquiry performance in a science intelligent tutoring system, Inq-ITS. Results indicated that students’ inquiry improved after receiving teachers’ help, elicited by the Inq-Blotter alerts. This inquiry improvement was significantly greater than for matched students who did not receive help from the teacher in response to alerts. Epistemic network analyses were then used to investigate the patterns in the discursive supports provided to students by teachers. These analyses revealed significant differences in the types of support that fostered (versus did not foster) student improvement; differences across teachers were also found. Overall, this study used innovative tools and analyses to understand how teachers use this technological genre of alerting dashboards to dynamically support students in science inquiry.
Methodological aspects of the development of topographic-anatomical segmentation of the uterus in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy on MRI
Authors: Vyshedkevich E. D. , Semenova E. S. , Mashchenko I. A. , Tilloev T. A. , Medenikov A. A. , Shefer A. S. , Trufanov G. E.
Published: April 2021

Background. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a highly informative and safe method of examination during pregnancy, which helps to identify and localize pathological changes in the uterus or placenta.

Objective. The goal of the study was to develop a universal topographic-anatomical segmentation of the pregnant uterus using MRI (with possible comparison with the bony landmarks) to determine the exact localization of abnormalities in the placenta and myometrium.

Design and methods. A retrospective analysis of 96 MR images of the pelvis of pregnant women with various abnormalities in the placenta or myometrium was carried out.

Results. The results of the analysis were used to develop a universal topographic and anatomical segmentation of the pregnant uterus by a step-by-step division of the entire area of the uterine walls into 12 conditionally equivalent segments. The sides of the uterus were marked with the capital letters D (Dexter — right), A (Anterior — anterior), S (Sinister — left), P (Posterior — posterior) to define the orientation, and with lowercase abbreviations sup (=superior), med (=median) and inf (=inferior) to specify the upper, middle and lower levels, respectively.

Conclusion. MRI-based DASP segmentation analysis of MR images allows to accurately localize uterine abnormalities and can be used in clinical practice by radiologists and obstetricians when considering the delivery method.
Fungal Diversity and Physico-chemical Parameters of Rhizospheric Soil from Banana Plantation Sites at Nagaland, India
Authors: Temjen W. , Singh M.R. , Ajungla T. , Chophi K.Z. , Semy K.
Published: April 2021

Background: Soil Fungi play a vital role in maintaining the soil health. Such Microbial communities offer stability and greater yield in agro-ecosystems. The current study was aimed to evaluate the diversity of rhizospheric fungi present in the Banana plantation site and estimate the values of the selected physico-chemical parameters of the soil. Methods: Soil samples were collected from the two selected sites i.e. Site MK and Site ZB, from Nagaland State, India During the month of October 2019. Soil temperatures, pH, Moisture, organic carbon and Available Nitrogen were measured by standard protocols. Fungi were isolated in Potato dextrose agar and Rose agar plates following serial dilution method. Plates were incubated at 25±1°C for 5-7 days. Fungal colonies were observed and transferred to appropriate identification media and identified with the help of literature. Result: A total of 19 different fungal isolates were recorded from the two sites. It was observed that the Genus Aspergillus was dominant in both the sites.
Peeping into the Emerging Threat of Novel Influenza D Virus: A Review
Authors: Akram Muhammad Zeeshan , Murtaza Ali , Kashif Muhammad , Ehtisham-ul-Haque Syed , Khan Aman Ullah , Ahmad Waqas , Jalal Hassan , Farooq Muhammad , Qamar Ahmad yar , Aziz H.M. Khizer , Shahid Zohaib
Published: April 2021

In 2011, a new virus was isolated from swine with influenza-like symptoms in Oklahoma, USA. Later in 2013, it was also evidenced in cattle, considered as its natural reservoir, elsewhere in the USA. This new virus has certain resemblance with Influenza C virus (ICV), predominately a human pathogen. Due to its inability to re-assort with ICV, it is now classified as Influenza D virus (IDV) and is a new candidate in the Orthomyxoviridae family. It causes mild respiratory disease in several animal species and replicates in both upper and lower respiratory tract. To date, serological evidence was demonstrated in various animal species and humans in all continents except Australia. It is transmitted through direct contact or through aerosol routes. Not much is known about its potential impact to animal and human health but it poses a potential risk as an emerging threat to cattle-workers. Currently, limited data is available on its global occurrence and distribution. Therefore, in current review, we summarize the global available data regarding epidemiology, pathology, zoonotic potential and future perspectives of this virus. In conclusion, continuous surveillance and risk assessment of this emerging virus is required.
First Report on Molecular Identification of Babesia bigemina in a Nervous Signs Evident Naturally Infected Holstein-Friesian Cattle from Central India
Authors: Agrawal V. , Das G. , Jaiswal A. , Jayraw A.K. , Jatav G.P. , Shakya M. , Jamara Nirmala
Published: April 2021

Background: Bovine babesiosis caused by an intraerythrocytic apicomplexan protozoon responsible for the most prevalent and costly tick borne diseases (TBD’s) of cattle throughout the globe. Cerebral babesiosis of bovine is fatal and mainly caused by Babesia bovis. To the knowledge of author, there is no confirm molecular report of Babeisa bigemina caused cerebral babesiosis in cattle. Therefore, authors want to report Babesia bigemina caused cerebral babesiosis on record. Methods: In the year 2015, a Holstein-Friesian cow aged 3 years and weighing approximately 300 kg, was attended at Jabalpur, (M.P.) with the clinical signs of high rise in temperature (104°F), recumbency, severe dysponea, peculiar sound during open mouth breathing, pale color of eye conjunctiva and mucous membrane of vagina, convulsions, sever anaemia, paddling of legs at frequent interval. After preparation of peripheral thin blood smear from animal at the site of collection and fixation with methanol, blood sample brought to Department of Veterinary Parasitology, College of Veterinary Science and A.H, Jabalpur and stained by standard protocol for Giemsa staining. Genomic DNA was isolated from the collected blood sample using QIAamp® DNA blood mini kit following the manufacturer’s recommendations and PCR was performed. Conclusion: The thin blood smear examination revealed the presence of Babesia parasite. The species of Babesia was confirmed by molecular amplification of genomic DNA as B. bigemina. This might be the first confirmed report of cerebral babesiosis caused by B. bigemina from Central India.
Analysis of Genetic Polymorphism and the Identification of the mi-RNA Binding Sites of the Hypoxia Related Genes in Indian Breeds of Cattle
Authors: Singh Sanjeev , Bhardwaj Shivam , Ganguly Indrajit , Bhatia A.K. , Dixit S.P.
Published: April 2021

Background: There are certain cattle breeds which are adaptable to the temperate type environmental conditions of high altitude regions of Himalayas. The genome of such cattle have signature of adaptability in the genes related to the hypoxia. Therefore, the current study was undertaken on three hypoxia related genes (EGLN2, EGLN3 and EPAS1) in four breeds of cattle adapted to the diverse agro-climatic conditions of high (Ladakhi and Siri) and low (Hallikar and Kankrej) altitude. Methods: The genotyping of the samples was carried out by using 777 K BovineHD BeadChip (Illumina) at Agri genome Pvt. Ltd (Kerala) and the in-silico analysis of the samples was carried out at ICAR-NBAGR during 2019-2020. The SNPs underlying the genes were evaluated for the gene and genotypic frequencies at nine SNP loci residing in these three candidate genes (EGLN2, EGLN3 and EPAS1). The diversity parameters for these SNPs were assessed by GenAlEx 6.2 software and Minor Allele Frequency (MAF) differences among the breeds were calculated by Duncan’s Multiple Range Test (DMRT) using SAS software. The mi-RNA binding sites in the 3’UTR region of genes were identified by TargetScan software. Result: Higher level of polymorphism was obtained in the Ladakhi and Siri breeds of cattle of high altitude/ cold adapted region than Hallikar and Kankrej of plain and hot arid/ semi-arid region. Several mi-RNA binding sites were obtained in the 3’UTR region of these 3 genes by Target Scan software. The polymorphism obtained in these candidate genes can be utilized in the markers assisted selection of the animals more adapted to the extreme cold and high altitude region for their genetic improvement as well as designing tools for the therapy of the diseases prevalent at high altitude.
Effect of Maternal Betaine Supplementation on Growth, Plane of Nutrition, Blood Biochemical Profile and Antioxidant Status of Progeny Pigs
Authors: Mishra Alok , Verma A.K. , Das Asit , Singh Putan , Munde V.K.
Published: April 2021

Background: Dietary supplementation of methyl donors like vitamins B9, B12, choline and betaine have been reported to reduce oxidative stress not only in sows but can also reduce oxidative stress in offspring through epigenetic modulation of DNA. However, cell proliferation and fetal development and oxidative stress associated with it is not uniform during the whole length of gestation. Hence this experiment was conducted to study the effects of maternal betaine supplementation on growth, plane of nutrition and antioxidant profile of progeny pigs. Methods: Eighteen crossbred (Landrace X Desi) sows were randomly distributed into three groups of six each in an experiment based on completely randomized design (CRD). The sows in control (T0) were fed standard ration to meet their requirements. Supplementary betaine at 3 g/kg DM were provided either during late pregnancy (d 76 onwards till parturition) only or throughout the length of gestation to the sows of groups T1 and T2, respectively. The samples of feed offered, residue and faeces were analyzed for proximate principles following the standard procedures. Blood samples from the progeny piglets were collected and antioxidant status of the piglets assessed by the measurement of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) by using standard kits. Result: The serum concentration of SOD was comparable (p greater than 0.05) among the groups, whereas serum concentration of catalase was higher (p less than 0.05) in piglets born to the dam exposed to supplementary beanie during gestation, the best response was observed whilst betaine was supplemented in the maternal diets during the whole length of gestation It was concluded that supplementation of betaine at 3g/kg in the diet of pregnant sows improved the antioxidant capacity of piglets borne to them.
Partial Deoxygenation of Semen Extender Minimizes Post-thaw Damages and Improves Freezability of Crossbred Bull Spermatozoa
Authors: Bhutia Lhendup , Kumar Abhishek , Katiyar Rahul , Gupta Vinod , Ramamoorthy M. , Bhure S.K. , Srivastava N. , Prasad J.K. , Ghosh S.K.
Published: April 2021

Background: Oxidative stress occurs when oxygen or oxygen derived oxidants exceed antioxidants and become responsible for poor post-thaw semen quality during the cryopreservation process. Therefore, the present study was designed to investigate the effects of dissolved oxygen (DO) levels (4, 6 and 8 ppm) in semen extender on freezability of crossbred bull spermatozoa. As the gap between 4 and 8 ppm existed in earlier studies, DO of 6 ppm in semen extender was further standardized and the effects were compared with other respective groups to contemplate any improvement in post-thaw semen quality. Methods: For the experiment, Tris-egg Yolk-Glycerol (TYG) extender was partially deoxygenated by nitrogen gassing @ 2-3 bubbles/sec at 34°C for 0, 16, 12 and 9 minutes to obtain DO levels of 11.7 ppm (Group-I/control), 4 ppm (Group-II), 6 ppm (Group-III) and 8 ppm (Group IV), respectively and collected semen samples were diluted with these extender groups to have 80×106 spermatozoa/ ml of the extender. Semen samples were evaluated for individual progressive motility (IPM), lipid peroxidation (LPO), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), plasma membrane integrity, acrosomal integrity and apoptotic changes at different stages of cryopreservation. Result: At the post-thaw stage, progressive motility was greater (p less than 0.05) in Group II compared to Group I and the least reduction from the post-dilution to the post-thaw stage was observed in Group II. In comparison to Group I, Groups II, III and IV showed lesser (p less than 0.05) MDA production with Group II having greater (p less than 0.05) TAC concentration than other groups at the post-thaw stage. A declining trend was observed in membrane integrity as DO levels increased from 4 ppm to 11.7 ppm. Acrosomal integrity did not differ among treatment groups, but, found to be higher (p less than 0.05) than the control group. Per cent viable spermatozoa was greater (p less than 0.05) in Group II than Group I and vice versa for necrotic spermatozoa as assessed by Annexin VFITC/PI staining. In conclusion, reducing the DO level to 4 ppm before cryopreservation improved the freezability by reducing oxidative stress and apoptotic changes while, above 4 ppm tended to lower it. An appreciable improvement in freezability can be seen at 6 ppm of DO, but, not up to that extent as observed at 4 ppm.
Generation of Micro-mutants for Yield and Component Traits in Horse Gram [Macrotyloma uniflorum (Lam.) Verdc.]
Authors: Priyanka S. , Sudhagar R. , Vanniarajan C. , Ganesamurthy K. , Souframanien J.
Published: April 2021

Background: Induced mutagenesis was employed in horse gram cv. CRIDA 1-18R with an objective of evolving mutants with increased yield potential. Methods: Based on preliminary study, the variety has been irradiated with desirable doses of gamma rays (200 Gy and 300 Gy), electron beam (100 Gy and 200 Gy) and its combination (100 Gy) and the material were forwarded to M2 generation following parent-progeny row basis. The genotypes exhibiting superior yield than control were further forwarded to M3 generation. Multivariate analyses were performed to determine the induction of micro-mutants for 11 quantitative traits. Result: The reduction in mean value over control was observed for most of the yield component traits at M2 generation. Among the mutagenic treatments, combination of gamma rays with electron beam registered high mean values for pod length (5.05 cm), number of pods per plant (54.42) and single plant yield (25.68 g) at M3 generation. Non-significant skewness and / or kurtosis at M3 population denoted the absence of epistatic interactions for plant yield. An increase in variability pattern, H2 and GAM at M3 generation indicated the scope for trait (plant height, number of seeds per pod, number of clusters per plant, number of pods per plant, biological yield and single plant yield) improvement through selection.
Using TALENs for genome editing in plants
Authors:   Manisa Celal Bayar University, Turkey, Betul Kaya Hilal , Rai Rhitu ,   ICAR-National Institute for Plant Biotechnology, India, Bogdanove Adam J. ,   Cornell University, USA
Published: April 2021

Transcription activator-like effector nucleases (TALENs) are powerful tools for precise and efficient locus-specific editing. Among the various genome editing tools that were developed prior to the CRISPR/Cas system, TALENs have been the most widely used, and they remain worthy of consideration due to their unique targeting properties and the current intellectual property landscape, which give them distinct advantages over CRISPR/Cas for some applications. This chapter briefly reviews and discusses use of TALENs in plants including their important distinguishing features, as well as design principles and tools, methods for construct assembly, and other available resources to assist researchers using this technology.
Double strand break (DSB) repair pathways in plants and their application in genome engineering
Authors:   Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, Germany, Beying Natalja , Schmidt Carla ,   Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, Germany, Puchta Holger ,   Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, Germany
Published: April 2021

In genome engineering, after targeted induction of double strand breaks (DSBs) researchers take advantage of the organisms’ own repair mechanisms to induce different kinds of sequence changes into the genome. Therefore, understanding of the underlying mechanisms is essential. This chapter will review in detail the two main pathways of DSB repair in plant cells, non-homologous end joining (NHEJ) and homologous recombination (HR) and sum up what we have learned over the last decades about them. We summarize the different models that have been proposed and set these into relation with the molecular outcomes of different classes of DSB repair. Moreover, we describe the factors that have been identified to be involved in these pathways. Applying this knowledge of DSB repair should help us to improve the efficiency of different types of genome engineering in plants.
Advances in assembling gRNA/Cas9 constructs in genome editing of plants
Authors:   Instituto de Biología Molecular and Celular de Plantas de Valencia (CSIC-UPV), Spain, Vázquez Vilar Marta , Selma Sara ,   Instituto de Biología Molecular and Celular de Plantas de Valencia (CSIC-UPV), Spain, Fernández del Carmen Asun ,   Instituto de Biología Molecular and Celular de Plantas de Valencia (CSIC-UPV), Spain, Orzáez Diego ,   Instituto de Biología Molecular and Celular de Plantas de Valencia (CSIC-UPV), Spain
Published: April 2021

This chapter reviews the principles of CRISPR cloning in binary vectors and the different methods and elements employed, including the nucleases alternative to Cas9. It pays special attention to modular cloning strategies and multiplexing tools as well as the engineering of expanded Cas activities. Finally, the chapter includes a case study of the cloning of a nine gRNA multiplex construct and the analysis of its transformants in tobacco plants.
Genome editing of barley
Authors:   Leibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research (IPK), Germany, Becker Martin , Hensel Goetz ,   Leibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research (IPK), Germany,   Palacký University, Czech Republic
Published: April 2021

Although barley is of great importance for the brewing and animal feed industries and is regarded as a model for small grain cereals, only a few results on targeted gene modification using CRISPR/Cas endonuclease technology have been published to date. In this chapter, the frontiers and achievements of the currently used techniques in barley genome modification will be shown and discussed.
Editorial - Vol 16: Number 2
Authors: Monteiro Rodrigues Luis
Published: April 2021

The Nutrition and Food Sciences section includes two sequential papers regarding the anthropometric evaluation of pre-school and school age children from the Canarian Islands (Biomed & Biopharm Research, 2019;(16) 2; 154-164 DOI:10.19277/bbr.16.2.207) and from Azores (Biomed & Biopharm Research, 2019;(16) 2; 165-175 DOI:10.19277/bbr.16.2.208). These two cross-sectional studies focus the prevalence of normal weight, overweight, and obesity in those age groups, completing similar information published in the last issue of our journal in reference to the Madeiran Islands. A complete characterization of this condition is now achieved and described for the entire European Macaronesian islands, underlining the originality and interest of these papers.
Preliminary sensory evaluation of salty crackers with grape pomace flour
Authors: Lídia Palma M. , Nunes M. Cristiana , Gameiro Rita , Rodrigues Marta , Gothe Sarah , Tavares Nelson , Pego Cíntia
Published: April 2021

Grape pomace, a by-product of winemaking, contains numerous chemical compounds with high nutritional value and potential benefits for human health, which enable its use for product enrichment in different industries from cosmetics to food. The aim of this study was to incorporate the grape pomace flour of the Touriga Nacional and Arinto grapes varietals from the Alentejo region of Portugal in a recipe for salty crackers, which were submitted to sensory evaluation by applying a hedonic test to 53 individuals. The results of the evaluation show a clear tendency of preference for the crackers with 10% of grape pomace flour, both in the Touriga Nacional and Arinto samples, which presented the highest result averages.
In vitro cytotoxicity assessment of ferulic, caffeic and p-coumaric acids on human renal cancer cells
Authors: Caparica Rita , Rolim Baby André , Almeida Tânia , Guilherme Costa João
Published: April 2021

Bioactive compounds from natural sources have been extensively studied as potential therapeutic agents, due to their chemical, structural, and biological properties. Among them, hydroxycinnamic acids emerge with a very interesting pharmacological potential to prevent and treat several diseases, including cancer. However, while some studies support their anticancer activity, other reports indicate otherwise. Since the impact of these compounds on renal cancer is not well established, further studies are needed to better understand their biological effects and their potential therapeutic uses in this cancer. In this work, the cytotoxicity of three hydroxycinnamic acids: ferulic, caffeic and p-coumaric acids, was evaluated on 786-O human renal cancer cells by MTT and CV assays. At concentrations up to 250 µM, none of the studied natural compounds showed cytotoxic effects to 786-O cell line. At higher concentrations (500 and 1000 µM), while ferulic acid also did not significantly influence the cell viability of 786-O cells, p-coumaric and caffeic acids decreased the renal cancer cells viability. Nevertheless, further studies on the biological activity of these compounds, using other methodologies, as well as using other cancer cell models, should be performed.
Editorial - Vol 17: Number 1
Authors: Monteiro Rodrigues Luis
Published: April 2021

A new era starts here As we have announced during the last months, 2020 is the year for full open access of the Biomedical and Biopharmaceutical Research journal. A longtime objective is now fulfilled, and it is an evolutionary landmark intending to reach another level of organization and consolidation. To reach this point, a great deal of work was done by a small but dedicated team within the BBR. At this time, we remind ourselves of our independent character, separate from any editorial or industry group, exclusively rooted in the science and education world, and under a non¬profit frame. Additionally, it is important to remember that we are wholeheartedly dedicated to the growth of scientific culture thought made real in our common mother-language within the wide “Lusophone” space. These were the founding purposes, and through them we have been supporting many institutions and individuals, especially in Portugal and Brasil, acting as a “window” that has been expanding since our inception. Our journal is, in fact, already an extraordinary science network, Portuguese – based but currently involving other institutions and individuals from all over the world. Nearly all our published papers reveal original research, most often developed under partnership. Our publication shift is a relevant attribute effectively contributing to the advancement of knowledge, impacting researchers, institutions, communities and cultures. It is not easy to gather editors from very different origins, cultural background, and experiences, but our resulting quality evolution is obvious. We are committed to continuing these objectives, without forgetting our founding principles. The open access of BBR is a determinant milestone. Furthermore, our editorial policy is also in progress, being more adapted to the current future, more attractive, and surely more demanding not only for authors but also for editors and peer-reviewers. We are in fact entering a new era, a new consolidation phase to reach higher quality standards. Thank you to all who, in different forms, made this possible. We are deeply grateful for your generous contributions, and we look forward to working together for a bright future.
Studying the impact of different body positioning, squatting, and unipodal flexion on perfusion in the lower limb – an exploratory approach complemented with optical spectroscopy (TiVi)
Authors: Nuno Sergio , Florindo Margarida , Silva Henrique , Monteiro Rodrigues Luis
Published: April 2021

Body posture and movement seem to be responsible for multiple variations of microcirculation in the foot, although difficulties associated with measurement during movement have limited their characterization. This pilot study sought to explore a new non-invasive instrument based on polarized light spectroscopy – the TiVi system, under orthostatic and dynamic conditions. Five healthy participants (duly informed, 26.0 ± 6.5 years of age) of both genders were selected. The protocol involved sequential posture changes (orthostatic variation) and dynamic movements (squatting and unipodal flexion). Perfusion variations were evaluated in both feet by laser-Doppler flowmetry (LDF) and polarized spectroscopy (TiVi). Both systems revealed the same type of modification of these flow-related variables. The most pronounced changes were obtained with exercise, especially with squatting, which caused a marked increase in foot perfusion. Less dramatic but in the same direction, the increased perfusion with unipodal flexion was also observed in the contralateral limb. This study confirmed the interest in using the TiVi system in these domains, as well as the appropriateness of this experimental design to look deeper into the impact of lower limb movement on the functional dynamics of the foot.
Start-up of an orthogeriatric unit in a specialized general
hospital
Authors: de los Ángeles Cruz Mª , Lillo Manuel
Published: April 2021

The aging of the Spanish population has led to an increasingly greater
number of hip fractures attended by the Spanish Healthcare System in the
last years. Those patients, due to their fragility, need special
professional attention and consequently, Orthogeriatric Units (UOG) have
achieved the highest benefits.The main purpose of this research project is
to evaluate the principle variables associated to the elderly affected of
hip fracture staying in a new Orthogeriatric Unit created at the Hospital
Nuestra Señora de Candelaria in Tenerife, Spain. A descriptive study of the
elderly patients diagnosed of hip fracture staying in a conventional
Orthopedic Ward was conducted, focusing specifically in those who were
transferred to the UOG. The main items to describe were: total time of
in-hospital staying, type of hip fracture and the kind of surgery selected,
physiotherapist sessions in the conventional Orthopedic Ward, in the UOG and
in Home Hospitalization Unit (HADO) as well as the total number of patients
that needed to continue ambulatory physiotherapist sessions. As a
conclusion, early start of physiotherapist sessions inside the hospital,
completed in the UOG and/or in HADO, along with counseling and professional
assessment to families and patients, reduced a very high percentage of their
need for ambulatory ongoing rehabilitation.
Construction and Initial Validation of a Questionnaire to Assess Quality
of Life in Older Institutionalized People
Authors: Molero Mª del Mar , Pérez-Fuentes Mª del Carmen , Gázquez José J. , Mercader Isabel
Published: April 2021

The aim of present study is the construction and initial validation of a
specific instrument to assess Quality of Life of older people in a
residential setting. Firstly, an initial questionnaire was designed, the
Cuestionario de Evaluación de Calidad de Vida en Contexto Residencial
(CECAVIR; in English, Questionnaire of Assessment of Quality of Life in
Residential Setting) and subsequently refined, reducing the number of items
from 88 to 56. It was then administered to a sample of 50 institutionalized
people over 70 years of age. The results obtained in the new version of the
instrument showed a considerable improvement of the alpha coefficient, both
in the total questionnaire (from .816 to .865), and in each subscale. The
results also showed that Functional Capacity is the dimension that best
explains (44%) quality of life in older institutionalized people. Thus, the
CECAVIR is presented as a specific instrument for the assessment of Quality
of Life, which takes into account its multidimensionality, obtaining optimal
results in the initial analyses of reliability and validity, in older
institutionalized population.
Cognitive Mechanisms Underlying Risky Decision-Making. A Study of
Patients with Alzheimer’s Dementia
Authors: Moreno Aurora , Alameda José Ramón
Published: April 2021

Patients with mild dementia of Alzheimer’s type (DAT) use to present
problems in decision making. Several studies have analyzed the cognitive
functions in the process of decision making, especially in situations under
ambiguity. One approach is the somatic marker hypothesis from the Iowa
Gambling Task (IGT) and the Gambling Index (IG). One problem is the lack of
specificity from IGT indicators, for this reason some hypotheses have been
proposed in order to solve these deficiencies, i.e. the Prospective Valence
Learning (PVL). In this study, we apply the IGT to 10 patients and 10
control subjects. We analyze the PVL parameter: loss aversion parameter (λ),
shape parameter (α), recency parameter (A), consistency (c) and task
development in function of advantageous choices. Our results show that
control subjects’ performance is better than DAT´, nevertheless, in the
first stages there are not differences, these appear in the two last blocks.
Whit the PVL parameters we obtain differences in α and c, and, to a lesser
extent, in λ. According to PVL parameters, DAT patients can be described as
sensible at loss subjects who are more influenced by immediate choice and a
very low level of consistence, what implies the use of random choice
strategies.
Nutrition Study People over 80 Years
Authors: Benítez Javier , Perejón Nieves , Arriaza Marcelino , Bellanco Pilar
Published: April 2021

Loneliness has always been associated and reported as a risk factor of
malnutrition in the elderly. People over 80 who live alone have deserved
this study to detect their situation and potential for action to improve
their quality of life. Objectives: To determinate the nutritional status of
people over 80 living alone in the area of “La Laguna”, Cádiz. Material and
method: In PIAMLA`80 program analyse those parameters and their possible
correlations in a group of 342 elderly living alone over 80 years old.
Different parameters were measured: Integral Geriatric Evaluation, Barthel,
Lawton-Brody, Lobo, Gijon, specific analytical blood chemistry and MNA.
Results: In a population of 984 people, were selected 342 initially, but
finally the group decreases to 247 people. The mean Barthel was 80.42
points, 5.76 Lawton and Gijon from 11.3 Lobo 26.48. The MNA for the whole
population was 24.25/30 detecting only a risk age group in women of 85-95.
Correlation between nutrition and the biochemical test values showed
positive for haemoglobin (0.19), total protein (0.26), Fe (0.32) and albumin
(0.46). Conclusions: In our research we have not detected malnutrition in
any age group or gender. The use of nutrition test MNA and its MINI version
must be generalized as an accurate, clear, quick and easy tool to
use.
School Aggression: Effects of Classroom Environment, Attitude to
Authority and Social Reputation Among Peers
Authors: Estévez Estefanía , Inglés Cándido J. , Martínez-Monteagudo Mª Carmen
Published: April 2021

Several researches have demonstrated the relationship between social
environment in the classroom and involvement in aggressive behaviours at
school. Little is known, however, about the mechanisms explaining this link
and intermediating factors that may be affecting such association. In this
line, the aim of the present study was to examine the role played by
attitude to authority and social reputation among peers; in other words, we
analysed the influence of classroom environment, considering interactions
with both teachers and other classmates, on aggressive behaviours at school,
and treating attitude to authority and social reputation among peers as
intermediating variables. The sample was composed of 1319 adolescents,
ranging in age from 11 to 16 years (47% male). Participants were drawn from
seven state secondary schools in Valencia (Spain). A structural equation
model was tested using the EQS Program in order to analyse interactions
among variables. Results revealed an indirect association between classroom
environment and aggression through attitude to authority and social
reputation, both of which were, in turn, directly related to school
aggression. Practical implications of these findings are discussed in
relation to school policies, teacher education programs and intervention
practices with students in the classroom.
Shall we quarrel or deal? The argumentation processes of parents and
adolescents during family conflicts
Authors: Correa Rodríguez Nieves , Rodríguez Juan , Ceballos Esperanza , Álvarez Miriam
Published: April 2021

The polarization of postures in conflicts among parents and adolescents
involve a threat for family harmony. Skills for argumentation and
perspective taking are required to enable the achievement of satisfactory
agreements during the processes of negotiation. The purpose of this paper
has been to analyze the skills of parents and adolescents to adopt other
perspectives when discussing a conflict by means of observational
methodology. The study was carried out with 29 families (constituted by
father, mother and an adolescent son or daughter) who were recorded while
they argued about a real conflict. Frequency and duration of five levels of
perspective-taking were registered (Myself; Reasoned myself; the other like
an obstacle; the other adding to me; and us) in the discourse of the family,
and also in the different members of the triad, considering their
interrelations. The results were showing a moderated level of
perspective-taking in family discussions, predominating the levels Reasoned
myself, focused on explaining own perspective, and The other like an
obstacle, focused on reasons to contest the perspective of the other. In
general parents showed more perspective-taking. Particularly the mothers
exhibited more sensitivity with her adolescent son or daughter, providing
higher levels of perspective-taking and argumentation.
Aging and Women’s Sexuality
Authors: Luque Salas Bárbara
Published: April 2021

We present results of our research, which has been aimed at
understanding the experience, practice, and sexual life in women over 50
years of age. We studied a sample of 729 women of between 50 and 80 years of
age. The research is part of qualitative feminist research methodology. Both
qualitative and quantitative data have been collected through focus groups
and a questionnaire drawn up by our research team. The results show the
satisfaction of older women-of all ages-with their sex life and the
importance of contextual and relational sexuality issues of women.
Autoeroticism is the most established sexual practice in this group of older
women and highlights who want to experience some changes in their current
sex life around the desire for a more sensual and emotional sexuality, with
a claim of more passionate and frequent relations. The data collected reveal
a qualitative difference in the reality of sex over the age of 70.