bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Complexes of Keggin POMs [PM12O40]3− (M=Mo, W) with GlyGlyGly and GlyGlyGlyGly Oligopeptides
Authors: Greijer Björn , De Donder Timothy , Nestor Gustav , Eriksson Jan E. , Seisenbaeva Gulaim A. , Kessler Vadim G.
Published: January 2021

Complexes of Keggin phosphomolybdate and phosphotungstate anions with tri‐ and tetra‐peptides, GlyGlyGly and GlyGlyGlyGly respectively, were isolated and investigated by single crystal X‐ray diffraction, FTIR and SEM‐EDS in the solid state and by 1H‐ and 31P NMR and ESI‐MS in solution. The trends imposed by longer chain length and increased hydrophobicity of the peptide molecules were traced both in binding in the solid state and in effects on solution stability of POMs. Hydrolysis of peptides was observed in strongly acidic solutions at enhanced temperatures in the presence of tungsten POMs.
Nucleophilic Aromatic Substitution (SNAr) and Related Reactions of Porphyrinoids: Mechanistic and Regiochemical Aspects
Authors: Sample Harry C. , Senge Mathias O.
Published: January 2021

The nucleophilic substitution of aromatic moieties (SNAr) has been known for over 150 years and found wide use for the functionalization of (hetero)aromatic systems. Currently, several “types” of SNAr reactions have been established and notably the area of porphyrinoid macrocycles has seen many uses thereof. Herein, we detail the SNAr reactions of seven types of porphyrinoids with differing number and type of pyrrole units: subporphyrins, norcorroles, corroles, porphyrins, azuliporphyrins, N‐confused porphyrins, and phthalocyanines. For each we analyze the substitution dependent upon: a) the type of nucleophile and b) the site of substitution (α, β, or meso). Along with this we evaluate this route as a synthetic strategy for the generation of unsymmetrical porphyrinoids. Distinct trends can be identified for each type of porphyrinoid discussed, regardless of nucleophile. The use of nucleophilic substitution on porphyrinoids is found to often be a cost‐effective procedure with the ability to yield complex substituent patterns, which can be conducted in non‐anhydrous solvents with easily accessible simple porphyrinoids.
Triptycene End‐Capped Indigo Derivatives – Turning Insoluble Pigments to Soluble Dyes
Authors: Benke Bahiru P. , Hertwig Leif , Yang Xuan , Rominger Frank , Mastalerz Michael
Published: January 2021

The synthesis of a highly soluble triptycene end‐capped indigo and its bay annulated derivative is reported. Both compounds have been studied by absorption and emission spectroscopy cyclic voltammetry, as well as theoretical calculations and compared to the parent indigo and bay annulated indigo. Besides a large improvement of solubility in organic solvents by the factor of approx. 70(!) the compounds also show a pronounced tendency to form crystals. Both properties, making these compounds promising electron acceptors for organic electronics.
Modal combination rules in response spectrum analysis: Early history
Authors: Chopra Anil K.
Published: January 2021

This is the tenth in a series of short papers on the early history of seminal concepts in earthquake engineering and structural dynamics.* It records the origins (in 1951) and early development (up to 1981) of modal combination rules in response spectrum analysis of structures.
Activation of Bombyx mori neuropeptide G protein–coupled receptor A19 by neuropeptide RYamides couples to Gq protein‐dependent signaling pathways
Authors: Guo Zhiqiang , He Xiaobai , Jiang Chaohui , Shi Ying , Zhou Naiming
Published: January 2021

RYamides constitute a novel family of neuropeptides newly identified in insects, and play important roles in regulating a variety of physiological processes. However, the signaling characteristics and physiological actions of RYamide signaling system remain largely unknown. In the present study, we cloned the full‐length complementary DNA of the RYamide receptor BNGR‐A19 from Bombyx mori larvae. After expression in mammalian HEK293T and insect Sf9 cells, functional assays revealed that BNGR‐A19 was activated by synthetic RYamide peptides, triggering a significant increase in cAMP‐response element controlled luciferase activity and Ca2+ mobilization in a Gq inhibitor‐sensitive manner. Upon activation by RYamide peptides, BNGR‐A19 elicited ERK1/2 phosphorylation via a Gq‐PLC‐PKC pathway, and also underwent a rapid internalization from the cell surface to the cytoplasm. Further cross‐activity analysis indicated that BNGR‐A19 exhibited very weak response upon stimulation by high concentration (1 μM) of Bombyx sulfakinin‐1, neuropeptide F‐1, and short neuropeptide F‐1, and vice versa, Bombyx RYamides also showed slight potency for activating Bombyx NPF receptor (BNGR‐A4) and sNPF receptor (BNGR‐A11). In addition, the quantitative reverse‐transcription polymerase chain reaction results showed that the high‐level expression of BNGR‐A19 was detected in the hindgut and testis, suggesting that the RYamide signaling is likely involved in the regulation of feeding, water homeostasis and testis development. This study provides the first in‐depth information on the insect RYamide signaling system, facilitating the further clarification of its endocrinological roles in insect physiology.
C1q/tumor necrosis factor‐related protein‐6 attenuates TNF‐α‐induced apoptosis in salivary acinar cells via AMPK/SIRT1‐modulated miR‐34a‐5p expression
Authors: Qu Ling‐Han , Hong Xia , Zhang Yan , Cong Xin , Xiang Ruo‐Lan , Mei Mei , Su Jia‐Zeng , Wu Li‐Ling , Yu Guang‐Yan
Published: January 2021

C1q/tumor necrosis factor‐related protein‐6 (CTRP6) is a newly identified adipokine involved in diverse biological processes. However, its role in salivary glands remains unknown. Here, we demonstrated that CTRP6 was mainly distributed in the nuclei, apicolateral membranes, and cytoplasm of human submandibular glands (SMGs), serous cells of parotid glands, and ducts and apicolateral membranes of serous cells in rats and mice. CTRP6 inhibited the apoptosis rate and reversed the increased levels of cleaved caspase 3, caspase 8, caspase 9, and cytochrome C and the decreased Bcl‐2 expression induced by tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α in both SMG‐C6 cells and cultured human SMG tissues. Microarray analysis identified 43 differentially expressed microRNAs (miRNAs) in the SMGs of nonobese diabetic mice. miR‐34a‐5p was selected due to its upregulation by TNF‐α, which was abolished by CTRP6. The miR‐34a‐5p inhibitor promoted whereas the miR‐34a‐5p mimic suppressed the effects of CTRP6 on TNF‐α‐induced apoptosis. CTRP6 increased AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK) phosphorylation and reversed TNF‐α‐induced SIRT1 downregulation in salivary cells. AraA, an AMPK inhibitor, reversed the effects of CTRP6 on TNF‐α‐induced alterations in the levels of SIRT1, miR‐34a‐5p, Bcl‐2, and cleaved caspase 3 in vitro and ex vivo, whereas activating AMPK by AICAR reversed the decrease in SIRT1 expression and increase in miR‐34a‐5p expression induced by TNF‐α. Inhibition of SIRT1 by EX527 suppressed the effects of CTRP6 on TNF‐α‐induced changes in miR‐34a‐5p and apoptosis‐related proteins. Our findings indicate that salivary glands are novel sites for CTRP6 synthesis and secretion. CTRP6 protects acinar cells against TNF‐α‐induced apoptosis via AMPK/SIRT1‐modulated miR‐34a‐5p expression.
The association of dental education with pediatric Medicaid participation
Authors: Ku Leighton , Han Xinxin , Chen Candice , Vujicic Marko
Published: January 2021

Purpose

This study examines whether characteristics of dental education, practice characteristics and state Medicaid policies are associated with dentists’ pediatric Medicaid participation.

Methods

Cross‐sectional analysis of data about dentists’ Medicaid participation in 2016, based on current practice characteristics and characteristics of dental schools they attended 5 to 10 years earlier. We analyze data about 22,500 general and pediatric dentists, drawn from the American Dental Association's Masterfile for 2016 and its dental school survey for 2009‐10. The primary outcome is whether dentists participated in Medicaid—enrolled to accept Medicaid patients and payments—in at least 1 of their practice sites in 2016.

Results

A majority (55%) of dentists accepted Medicaid in at least 1 practice site, while a quarter (24%) accepted Medicaid in all their sites. Dentists who attended schools with higher tuition rates were less likely to serve Medicaid patients at any site several years later (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = .761). Dental schools’ receipt of grants that encourage community‐based training were associated with increased Medicaid participation at all sites (AOR = 1.22). Those practicing in rural areas also had higher Medicaid participation (AOR = 2.62). A 10% increase in Medicaid reimbursement rates was associated with increased Medicaid participation at any site (AOR = 1.24).

Conclusions

Dental school practices and state Medicaid policies are associated with whether dentists care for Medicaid patients. Changes in dental school or Medicaid policies, such as higher reimbursement rates, could help encourage more dentists to accept Medicaid patients, thereby increasing access to care.
How Cognitive Control, Autistic and Schizotypal Traits Shape Context Adaptation of Divergent Thinking
Authors: Ramain Julie , Mohr Christine , Abu‐Akel Ahmad
Published: January 2021

Divergent thinking, the ability to generate multiple ideas from different perspectives, is considered a central component of the creative thinking process. While context, personality traits, and cognitive control abilities have individually been shown to have large effects on divergent thinking, their interrelationship is yet to be elucidated. In 83 healthy participants (Males = 42%), we investigated how context adaptation of divergent thinking is related to normal variations in autistic and positive schizotypal traits as well as to proactive and reactive cognitive control strategies. Context adaptation of divergent thinking—defined as the variance in the proportion of unique to total responses of a drawing divergent thinking task performed across four different contexts—was predicted by a 3‐way interaction of autistic traits, positive schizotypal traits, and cognitive control. Specifically, increasing reactive control improved context adaptation when positive schizotypal traits were high and autistic traits were low, while increasing proactive control was associated with improved context adaptation when both autistic and positive schizotypal traits were high. Both modes of cognitive control can enhance the ability to generate unique ideas across contexts, but this depends on the individuals’ specific combinations of autistic and positive schizotypal trait levels.
Characterization, nanostructure, and transport properties of styrene grafted PVA/SiO2 hybrid nanocomposite membranes: Positron lifetime study
Authors: Awad Somia , Alomari Ali H. , Abdel‐Hady Esam E. , Hamam Mai F. M.
Published: January 2021

Gamma radiation‐induced graft copolymerization of styrene monomer on a polyvinyl alcohol film has successfully prepared a proton exchange membrane based on polyvinyl alcohol/silicon nanoparticles (PVA/SiO2), for use in fuel cells. The physical and chemical properties of the prepared hybrid nanocomposite membranes were examined by the Fourier transformer infrared spectrometer (FTIR) and the hardness test. The electrochemical properties were studied as a function of the degree of grafting at different doses of gamma irradiation. Ion exchange capacity (IEC) was found to improve with rising in the degree of grafting and then slightly decrease because of styrene homo‐polymerizes as the dose of gamma irradiation intensifies. As the graft grade increases, the proton's conductivity rises to 30% of the degree of grafting and then begins to stabilize. The free volume hole size obtained from positron annihilation lifetime (PAL) experiments was found to increase by the further accumulation of the styrene graft content. The results of PAL support electrochemical results. Also, a strong link between the results of nanoscopic properties from PAL, and the results of chemical and physical properties (macroscopic results) has been successfully established. The prepared PVA/SiO2‐grafted sulfonated styrene seems to be a potential alternative to Nafion for fuel cell applications.
Meta‐analysis of the embryo freezing transfer interval
Authors: Matorras Roberto , Pijoan Jose Ignacio , Perez‐Ruiz Irantzu , Lainz Lucía , Malaina Iker , Borjaba Sonia
Published: January 2021

Background

The decision of whether frozen embryo transfer (FET) should be performed in the cycle immediately after OPU or at least one cycle later is controversial. FET could improve pregnancy rates in IVF; however, how much time is needed for the endometrium to return to optimal receptivity after ovarian stimulation is not known.

Methods

Electronic search in MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials to identify studies providing data on the influence of the interval between embryo freezing (or OPU) and FET in FET cycles published between January 1, 2007, and February 1, 2020.

Main findings

Data analyzed indicated that in the immediate FET cycles, there was a trend to an increased biochemical pregnancy rate (RR = 1.08; CI = 1.00‐1.18), whereas the clinical pregnancy rate was somewhat higher, but without reaching statistical significance (RR = 1.07; CI = 0.99‐1.15). The live birth rate was similar in the two groups (RR = 1.05; CI = 0.95‐1.15), as was the implantation rate (RR = 0.98; CI = 0.83‐1.16). Stratifying by embryo stage or FET type (freeze‐all or FET after failed fresh transfer) showed no differences.

Conclusion

Systematically delaying FET does not offer benefits to IVF outcomes. In addition, immediate transfer is associated with a nonsignificant trend to better clinical pregnancy rate and it also avoids the psychological effects of prolonging the stress on prospective parents.
Cyclopiazonic acid induced p53‐dependent apoptosis in the testis of mice: Another male related risk factor of infertility
Authors: Bonyadi Farzaneh , Hasanzadeh Shapor , Malekinejad Hassan
Published: January 2021

Cyclopiazonic acid (CPA) is an indole tetrameric acid mycotoxin. This study carried out to investigate the potential effects of CPA on male reproductive system. In the current study, 40 adult male mice were divided into five groups (n = 8). The control group did not expose to CPA, while animals in vehicle‐received group; received the CPA‐solvent (0.05% dimethyl sulfoxide) and the animals of third, fourth, and fifth groups received CPA 0.03, 0.06, and 0.12 mg/kg, body weight, respectively for 28 days. Morphometric and morphological deviations, spermatogenesis indices, malondialdehyde (MDA) content, total thiol molecules (TTM) concentration, total antioxidant capacity (TAC), protein carbonylation rate (CO), and nitric oxide (NO) concentration were examined. The expression changes of apoptotic genes (P53, Bcl‐2, and Caspase III) at mRNA level were also evaluated by qPCR technique. Reduction in the Leydig and Sertoli cells population, diameter of seminiferous tubules, and spermatogenesis parameters was significant only in the group that received the highest dose of CPA. An increase in the level of MDA, NO, and CO in testicular tissue and reduction of TAC and TTM were observed in the CPA‐exposed groups. Significant up‐regulation (p < .05) in the expression of P53 and Caspase III genes and down‐regulation of Bcl‐2 gene were found in the CPA‐received groups. These results are indicating the detrimental effects of CPA on the testicles, which may attribute to the CPA‐induced oxidative stress and apoptosis. Moreover, results also help to understand a serious concern about the presence of CPA in foods as a potential risk factor in male‐related infertility.
Immobilisation with intramuscular ketamine as part of the anaesthetic protocol in three companion horses
Authors: Bautista Díaz‐Delgado Oscar , Bennell Alison
Published: January 2021

The objective of this case series is to describe the successful use of ketamine intramuscularly for immobilisation as part of the anaesthetic protocol in two out of three companion horses. All patients were presented in situations where case management was challenging and dangerous to personnel involved. One case presented behavioural issues and the second case presented with severe colitis. Both horses were anaesthetised to be safely euthanised on humane grounds. The third case required extrication during a transport incident and had to be anaesthetised to ensure the safety of the horse and personnel involved. This case series discusses the reasons to choose intramuscular chemical immobilisation, drug delivery methods, and drug combinations. Moreover, factors that should be taken into account when planning intramuscular chemical immobilisation in horses are presented.
Escherichia coli‐associated granulomatous colitis in a cat
Authors: Safian Alexander M. , Bolton Timothy
Published: January 2021

A six‐year‐old male castrated domestic shorthair cat was evaluated for a six‐month history of haematochezia, mucoid diarrhoea, tenesmus and rectal prolapse. Colonic histopathology revealed multifocal mucosal ulceration and lamina propria infiltration with large numbers of periodic acid‐Schiff‐positive macrophages. Large clusters of intracellular Escherichia coli were confirmed with fluorescence in situ hybridization testing, similar to that seen in dogs with granulomatous colitis. An eight‐week course of marbofloxacin resulted in resolution of clinical signs; however, recurrence occurred four weeks later. A 12‐week course of marbofloxacin resulted in disease remission for which the cat still remains free of clinical signs (15 months). Escherichia coli‐associated granulomatous colitis, although reported with rarity in this species, is an important infectious cause of chronic large intestinal disease in the cat.
Respiratory failure in a French Bulldog with suspected acute polyradiculoneuropathy
Authors: Lloyd Ffion , Nadal Veronica Gonzalo , Stalin Catherine , Murison Pamela
Published: January 2021

A three‐year‐old male neutered French Bulldog presented with acute respiratory failure following a period of progressive non‐ambulatory tetraparesis and generalised reduced muscle tone and spinal reflexes. Acute idiopathic polyradiculoneuropathy was suspected. Deep sedation and mechanical ventilation were required for a 40‐hour period, after which the dog was successfully weaned off mechanical ventilation. Two earlier attempts to wean were unsuccessful due to ongoing intercostal muscular paresis and, hence, hypercapnia. Non‐ambulatory tetraparesis remained with progressively improving muscular tone and mobility up to discharge from hospital 10 days following admission. Clinical management of the respiratory failure is described in detail and is the focus of this report.
Combiningmacro‐XRF,OCT, and sampling techniques in the authentication study of the painting attributed to Michael Willmann
Authors: Łydżba‐Kopczyńska Barbara , Iwanicka Magdalena , Kowalska Magdalena , Targowski Piotr
Published: January 2021

In this contribution, we present the first analytical study of the painting “Christ in Gethsemane” (from a parish church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Żagań, Silesia, Poland) which attribution to Michael Willmann (1630–1706) has been questioned recently by art historians. After some preliminary non‐invasive investigations, the painting was subjected to Macro XRF scanning. The further detailed study of micro‐samples became essential although of limited scope since, given the painting's historical value, their number had to be strictly limited. The application of optical coherence tomography (OCT) allowed selecting areas of the original paint layer and collecting samples representative of the artist's technique. Further study analysis of the cross‐sections stratigraphy using UV–VIS optical microscopy and SEM‐EDS analysis supported the conclusions derived from MA‐XRF images. All the results were compared with a reference database containing information about various painting materials used by M. Willmann during all his artistic periods which finally allowed for negative attribution of the painting to the master.
Influence of renal insufficiency on anticoagulant effects and safety of warfarin in Chinese patients: analysis from a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Ning Xiaoyi , Kuang Yun , Yang Guoping , Xie Jinlian , Miao Da , Guo Chengxian , Huang Zhijun
Published: January 2021

This study aimed to analyze the influence of renal insufficiency on the anticoagulant effects and safety of warfarin in Chinese patients. Data on the creatinine levels of participants enrolled in a randomized controlled study were screened and divided into the non-renal insufficiency group, mild renal insufficiency group, and moderate renal insufficiency group, according to the creatinine clearance rate. The primary outcome measures were stable dose and average daily dose of warfarin. Secondary outcome measures were percentage of time in the therapeutic international normalized ratio (INR) (%TTR), and the first time to reach the therapeutic INR. Adverse events included bleeding events, thromboembolic events, and mortality. All participants with renal function test results and a baseline INR of less than 1.5 were included in the primary and secondary outcome analysis. The SPSS Statistics 21.0 software was used for statistical analysis. The randomized controlled trial was registered in Clinicaltrials.gov (NCT02211326). A total of 571 patients were included in this analysis. Multiple regression analysis showed that the renal function was correlated with stable dose, average daily dose, and the first time to reach therapeutic INR after adjusting for confounding factors. However, no correlation was noted between kidney function and %TTR. No significant differences were observed across the various safety parameters among the three groups. Renal function is an important consideration in patients using warfarin.
Comparison of the efficiency, safety, and survival outcomes in two stem cell mobilization regimens with cyclophosphamide plus G-CSF or G-CSF alone in multiple myeloma: a meta-analysis
Authors: Wang Liwen , Xiang Hongxian , Yan Yuhan , Deng Zuqun , Li Hui , Li Xin , Liu Jing
Published: January 2021

Autologous stem cell transplantation as a frontline treatment for patients with multiple myeloma (MM) requires an adequate peripheral blood stem cell (PBSC) collection before processing. Granulocyte-colony stimulating factor (G-CSF) with or without cyclophosphamide (CTX) is a common regimen for PBSC mobilization; their benefits and risks are controversial. To compare the efficiency, safety, and survival outcomes between the two regimens, we conducted a meta-analysis including 18 studies with 4 prospective and 14 retrospective studies; a total of 2770 patients with MM were analyzed. The CTX plus G-CSF regimen had higher yields of total CD34+cells (SMD = 0.39, 95% CI (0.30, 0.49)), and higher mobilization rates of the target ⩾ 2 × 106/kg (OR = 3.34, 95% CI (1.82, 6.11)) and 4 × 106/kg (OR = 2.16, 95% CI (1.69, 2.76)) cells. A favorable event-free survival (EFS) (HR = 0.73, 95% CI (0.58, 0.93),p = 0.01) and better 3-year EFS rate (OR = 1.65, 95% CI (1.1, 2.47),p = 0.02) were also reached in the patients with CTX plus G-CSF mobilization, although the risks of admission (OR = 26.49, 95% CI (7.31, 95.97)) and fever (OR = 13.66, 95% CI (6.21, 30.03)) during mobilization were increased, the treatment-related mortality was consistent (p = 0.26). The CTX plus G-CSF regimen was superior to the G-CSF-alone regimen for PBSC mobilization in patients with MM.
Spatiotemporal dynamics of urban climate during the wet-dry season transition in a tropical African city
Authors: Kabano Peter , Harris Angela , Lindley Sarah
Published: January 2021

The Urban Heat Island effect has been the focus of several studies concerned with the effects of urbanisation on human and ecosystem health. Humidity, however, remains much less studied, although it is useful for characterising human thermal comfort, the Urban Dryness Island effect and vegetation development. Furthermore, variability in microscale climate due to differences in land cover is increasingly crucial for understanding urbanisation effects on the health and wellbeing of living organisms. We used regression analysis to investigate the spatial and temporal dynamics of temperature, humidity and heat index in the tropical African city of Kampala, Uganda. We gathered data during the wet to dry season transition from 22 locations that represent the wide range of urban morphological differences in Kampala. Our analysis showed that the advancement of the dry season increased variability of climate in Kampala and that the most built-up locations experienced the most profound seasonal changes in climate. This work stresses the need to account for water availability and humidity to improve our understanding of human and ecosystem health in cities.
Coping during COVID-19: a mixed methods study of older cancer survivors
Authors: Galica Jacqueline , Liu Ziwei , Kain Danielle , Merchant Shaila , Booth Christopher , Koven Rachel , Brundage Michael , Haase Kristen R.
Published: January 2021

Purpose

Older cancer survivors are among the most vulnerable to the negative effects of COVID-19 and may need specific survivorship supports that are unavailable/restricted during the pandemic. The objective of this study was to explore how older adults (≥ 60 years) who were recently (≤ 12 months) discharged from the care of their cancer team were coping during the pandemic.

Methods

We used a convergent mixed method design (QUAL+quan). Quantitative data were collected using the Brief-COPE questionnaire. Qualitative data were collected using telephone interviews to explore experiences and strategies for coping with cancer-related concerns.

Results

The mean sample age (n = 30) was 72.1 years (SD 5.8, range 63–83) of whom 57% identified as female. Participants’ Brief-COPE responses indicated that they commonly used acceptance (n = 29, 96.7%), self-distraction (n = 28, 93.3%), and taking action (n = 28, 93.3%) coping strategies. Through our descriptive thematic analysis, we identified three themes: (1) drawing on lived experiences, (2) redeploying coping strategies, and (3) complications of cancer survivorship in a pandemic. Participants’ coping strategies were rooted in experiences with cancer, other illnesses, life, and work. Using these strategies during the pandemic was not new—they were redeployed and repurposed—although using them during the pandemic was sometimes complicated. These data were converged to maximize interpretation of the findings.

Conclusions

Study findings may inform the development or enhancement of cancer and non-cancer resources to support coping, particularly using remote delivery methods within and beyond the pandemic. Clinicians can engage a strengths-based approach to support older cancer survivors as they draw from their experiences, which contain a repository of potential coping skills.
Recent genetic advances on boar taint reduction as an alternative to castration: a review
Authors: Duarte Darlene Ana Souza , Schroyen Martine , Mota Rodrigo Reis , Vanderick Sylvie , Gengler Nicolas
Published: January 2021

Boar taint is an unpleasant odor in male pig meat, mainly caused by androstenone, skatole, and indole, which are deposited in the fat tissue. Piglet castration is the most common practice to prevent boar taint. However, castration is likely to be banished in a few years due to animal welfare concerns. Alternatives to castration, such as genetic selection, have been assessed. Androstenone and skatole have moderate to high heritability, which makes it feasible to select against these compounds. This review presents the latest results obtained on genetic selection against boar taint, on correlation with other traits, on differences in breeds, and on candidate genes related to boar taint. QTLs for androstenone and skatole have been reported mainly on chromosomes 6, 7, and 14. These chromosomes were reported to contain genes responsible for synthesis and degradation of androstenone and skatole. A myriad of work has been done to find markers or genes that can be used to select animals with lower boar taint. The selection against boar taint could decrease performance of some reproduction traits. However, a favorable response on production traits has been observed by selecting against boar taint. Selection results have shown that it is possible to reduce boar taint in few generations. In addition, modifications in diet and environment conditions could be associated with genetic selection to reduce boar taint. Nevertheless, costs to measure and select against boar taint should be rewarded with incentives from the market; otherwise, it would be difficult to implement genetic selection.
Interfacial bond strength and moisture induced damage characteristics of asphalt mastic-aggregate system composed of Nano hydrated lime filler
Authors: Das Aditya Kumar , Singh Dharamveer
Published: January 2021

The present study was undertaken to investigate the impact of a unique combination of fillers on interfacial bond strength and moisture-induced damage potential of asphalt mastic. One asphalt binder (AC-30), three fillers including Basalt (B), Hydrated Lime (HL), and Nano-Hydrated lime (NHL) were selected to prepare asphalt mastics for a wide range of filler-binder (f/b) ratio (0.6 to 1.2). The dosages of HL and NHL were considered 0%, 5%, 10%, 15%, and 20% by weight of asphalt binder, and the dosage of B filler was adjusted to meet the respective f/b ratio. The interfacial bond strength and moisture-induced damage potential of asphalt mastic specimens were determined using the Bitumen Bond Strength (BBS) test. The BBS test parameters inferred that both B-HL and B-NHL filler combinations can enhance the bond strength and moisture damage resistance of asphalt mastic. Besides, asphalt mastic composed of B-NHL filler can be less susceptible to bond failure and moisture damage with improved adhesion and cohesion properties than B-HL filler. Additionally, asphalt mastic composed of a lower percentage (10%–15%) of NHL filler showed better bond strength and moisture damage resistance over mastic composed of a higher percentage (15%–20%) of HL filler. Asphalt mastic prepared with an f/b ratio less than 1.0 was found to be suitable to achieve better performance considering the moisture-induced damage properties. Grey relational analysis (GRA) method was used to analyze the correlation degree between filler properties and moisture damage properties of asphalt mastics. Based on the GRA results, Rigden voids and specific surface area are suggested to be the two most influential properties on the moisture-induced damage potential of asphalt mastic.
The Status under EU Law of Organisms Developed through Novel Genomic Techniques
Authors: VAN DER MEER Piet , ANGENON Geert , BERGMANS Hans , BUHK Hans Jörg , CALLEBAUT Sam , CHAMON Merijn , ERIKSSON Dennis , GHEYSEN Godelieve , HARWOOD Wendy , HUNDLEBY Penny , KEARNS Peter , MCLOUGHLIN Thomas , ZIMNY Tomasz
Published: January 2021

In a ruling on 25 July 2018, the Court of Justice of the European Union concluded that organisms obtained by means of techniques/methods of mutagenesis constitute GMOs in the sense of Directive 2001/18, and that organisms obtained by means of techniques/methods of directed mutagenesis are not excluded from the scope of the Directive. Following the ruling, there has been much debate about the possible wider implications of the ruling. In October 2019, the Council of the European Union requested the European Commission to submit, in light of the CJEU ruling, a study regarding the status of novel genomic techniques under Union Law. For the purpose of the study, the Commission initiated stakeholder consultations early in 2020. Those consultations focused on the technical status of novel genomic techniques.

This article aims to contribute to the discussion on the legal status of organisms developed through novel genomic techniques, by offering some historical background to the negotiations on the European Union (EU) GMO Directives as well as a technical context to some of the terms in the Directive, and by analysing the ruling. The article advances that (i) the conclusion that organisms obtained by means of techniques/methods of mutagenesis constitute GMOs under the Directive means that the resulting organisms must comply with the GMO definition, ie the genetic material of the resulting organisms has been altered in a way that does not occur naturally by mating and/or natural recombination; (ii) the conclusion that organisms obtained by means of techniques/methods of directed mutagenesis were not intended to be excluded from the scope of the Directive is not inconsistent with the negotiation history of the Directive; (iii) whether an organism falls under the description of “obtained by means of techniques/methods of directed mutagenesis” depends on whether the genetic material of the resulting organisms has been altered in a way that does not occur naturally by mating and/or natural recombination. Finally, the article offers an analysis of the EU GMO definition, concluding that for an organism to be a GMO in the sense of the Directive, the technique used, as well as the genetic alterations of the resulting organism, must be considered.
Simplifying the Measurement of College Students’ Career Planning: the Development of Career Student Planning Scale during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Gray Magnus A. , Kim Minsung , Lee Seungyeon
Published: January 2021

We created a new, 8-item scale called “Career Student Planning Scale (CSPS)” for a valid and reliable measure regarding college students’ career planning during a traumatic event, such as a pandemic. CSPS is conceptually similar to the career decision-making difficulty questionnaire (CDDQ) and the career decision self-efficacy (CDSE) scale. CSPS leans towards questions about college students’ perceptions about career planning, rather than intuitions about career decision-making; it also inquires about how participants conceptualize about their career plans to be correct, rather than the more extreme idea about how their intuitions are correct: we developed this scale to capture the latter construct. We included the coronavirus anxiety scale (CAS), CDDQ, the general procrastination scale (GPS), and the CDSE short form (CDSE-SF) as covariates to ensure that CSPS has distinct effects on their career paths. Our findings indicate the CSPS has acceptable psychometric properties and demonstrates a valuable input to those measures.
The EPICC Quest for Prescription Contraceptive Insurance Coverage
Authors: Vargas Christine
Published: January 2021

On the October 18, 2001 episode of The Late, Late Show with Craig Kilborn, the show's host announced that a woman in Georgia had sued her employer, WalMart, for not covering her contraceptives under its health insurance plan. He then cracked, “Hey, isn't working at WalMart all the birth control you need?” Kilborn's crude joke met with howls of laughter from the audience, but it likely struck a raw nerve with the millions of American women who do not have access to health insurance plans that cover birth control, and the many men and women who are battling to ensure that all women ultimately obtain such coverage.

WalMart is one of hundreds of employers in the United States that do not cover any of the five most common forms of birth control that were created exclusively for women. In fact, half of the large health insurance plans in America do not cover any form of contraception. Some of these plans do, however, cover Viagra, a drug used to treat male impotence.
An overview of land fund categories distribution in Surkhandarya, Uzbekistan
Authors: Abdivaitov Khudoyberdi , Muratov Sanjarbek , Altiyev Abdurashid , Abdivaitova Sevarakhon , Norkulov Musurmon , Khalilova Barnokhon
Published: January 2021

Uzbekistan has a wide range of land use categories, because of its best geographical location. The distribution of the land fund according to its specific purpose is always one of the most important issues in the country. This article provides an analysis of the use of the Republican land fund for the last decade. Explanations of the concept of the land fund have been studied and detailed clarifications have been given for each of its categories. Surkhandarya region was selected as the main study area and the land fund of the last two years was analysed. During the work, statistical land-use data which provided from the state committee on land resources, geodesy, cartography and state cadastre of the Republic of Uzbekistan were used. Besides that, using the importance of geographic information system (GIS) and remote sensing techniques was reviewed for rational land use.
Investigation of the population area of snow leopard in the Central Tian-Shan Mountains
Authors: Dyldaev Mirlan , Chymyrov Akylbek , Mukabaev Askat , Omurzak uulu Orozbek
Published: January 2021

The spatial analysis of population areal of snow leopards in the Central Tian Shan Mountains and monitoring of their population dynamics and reproduction is needed by nature conservation activities. The study area is located in the unique and remote transboundary region between the Kyrgyz Republic, Republic of Kazakhstan and People’s Republic of China. The population areas, feeding base and movement of snow leopards within the Khan Tengri State Nature Park were realized by using camera traps and Geoinformation Systems (GIS). Camera traps have been used for recording the existence and activity of snow leopards in the high mountainous and uninhabited area. 14 adult and 5 snow leopard cubs are detected and recorded within the survey period in 2018-2019 with various individual characteristics of animals. The spatial distribution of snow leopard’s population was mapped and analyzed by applying open source GIS software (Quantum GIS) and satellite positioning.
Land cover-adjusted index for the former Aral Sea using Landsat images
Authors: Aslanov Ilhomjon , Khasanov Sayidjakhon , Khudaybergenov Yakhshimurad , Groll Michael , Opp Ch Christian , Li F. , Del-Valle E Ramirez
Published: January 2021

The Aral Sea was the fourth largest inland lake on the globe until 1960, with a surface area of about 68,000 km2. Mainly, the huge irrigation projects in many parts of its transboundary catchment were responsible for the catastrophic desiccation and ecological crises of the Aral Sea after second part of 20th century. Ecological crisis surrounding the Aral Sea (lake) regions is one of the critical environmental problems of Central Asia. As a result, monitoring of desertification processes and determining the aerosol concentration in the atmosphere are highly relevant for any attempts to mitigate environmental changes in the Aral Sea basin. Remote sensing is the most appropriate method for studying desertification and dust storms as it easily covers large areas with a high spatial and temporal resolution. Satellite images provide detailed multispectral information about the earth’s surface features, which proves invaluable for the characterization of vegetation, soil, water, and landforms at different scales. Vegetation cover, biomass, and soil properties were analyzed with remote sensing methods (NDVI, SDVI). It is emphasized that vegetation indices have little sensitivity at low leaf area which is common to all desert ecosystems.
Improvement of the method for comparing subsidence of structures using the Fischer’s F-test and the Foster-Stuart test
Authors: Suyunov Abdusali , Suyunov Shukhrat , Aminjanova Malika , Rakhmatullaeva Kamola
Published: January 2021

To improve the quality of construction and increase the durability of engineering structures under construction, complex geodetic works should be performed, including geodetic observations of deformations of structures. These observations are carried out during the construction of buildings and structures and their operation, mainly before the period of deformation stabilization. In this regard, a reliable statistical definition of deformations close to the limit is necessary, based on the data of geodetic observations. The research helps to improve the definition of deformations of structures using the Fischer’s F-test and the Foster-Stuart test, based on analysis of the measurements of horizontal and vertical monitoring of industrial structures. According to the results, the magnitude of the subsidence plays a more significant role from than its absolute value, thus the value of the deformation intensity is of primary importance in justifying observation periodicity.
Identification and analysis of factors influencing climate change in terms of CO2 emissions
Authors: Gutsche Jan , Muślewski Łukasz , Dzioba Anna , Matyukh Sergiy
Published: January 2021

It is commonly known that transport means release exhaust gases into the atmosphere which poses a threat to the natural environment. Therefore, new requirements and stricter regulations on emissions of C2 and other harmful substances are being introduced. This study presents an analysis of different emission sources of anthropogenic and natural origin. The analysis is supposed to show a real impact of transport related C2 emissions on the natural environment. The work includes results of tests concerning application of biocomponents in motor vehicle fuels and their impact on the value of C2 emission. Having in mind the analysis, it can be said that, as compared to other branches of economy and its natural sources, transport is not the major source of C2 emission and application of biofuels is not a factor that is likely to significantly contribute to carbon dioxide emission reduction on a global scale.
Systems of vibration parameters automated control for diagnostics of equipment technical state
Authors: Horiashchenko Serhiy , Polishchuk Oleg , Łukasiewicz Marcin , Matuszewski Maciej , Boykov Vladimir
Published: January 2021

The article deals with the issues of the spatial direction of measurement, which is optimal in terms of recognition of the state of a particular unit node and preparation of control points for diagnosis. To form a diagnostic feature, the representation of the signal in a rather narrow range has been used, for instance, in the area of one of the harmonics of the fundamental mechanism excitation frequency. To process such signals, an integrated programming environment developed in the style of Microsoft Visual products has been created. To ensure the requirements of optimal vibration analysis, the structure of stationary equipment control systems has been proposed. Analysis of random vibration of the diagnosed object is done using real-time two-channel analyzers. Each analyzer channel has a processor for fast Fourier transform and operational information. The two available channels can allow assessment of the state of the object by special correlation functions. In contrast to the known methods, the established methods of determining the frequency range of defects of various light industry machine nodes differ in taking account size of parts and equipment nodes, and the possibility to use narrow-band filtering. The analysis of possibilities to install vibration sensors has been carried out.
Unterschiede in den Verträgen zur häuslichen Krankenpflege in Deutschland und ihre Konsequenzen
Authors: Büscher Andreas , Zeiser Silvana , Gruber Eva Maria
Published: January 2021

Zielsetzung Die häusliche Krankenpflege gewinnt in Deutschland seit einigen Jahren zunehmend an Bedeutung. Bestehende Probleme erfahren bislang jedoch wenig Aufmerksamkeit, insbesondere die vertraglichen Grundlagen zur Leistungserbringung. Ziel der vorliegenden Arbeit war es, bestehende Verträge zur Leistungserbringung in der häuslichen Krankenpflege nach § 132a Abs. 4 SGB V auf Gemeinsamkeiten, Unterschiede und mögliche resultierende Versorgungsungleichheiten zu analysieren.

Methodik Über unterschiedliche Quellen wurden 27 Verträge aus 11 Bundesländern zur Erbringung häuslicher Krankenpflege identifiziert und inhaltsanalytisch anhand der wesentlichen Regelungsbereiche analysiert.

Ergebnisse Die Analyse ergab einige Gemeinsamkeiten der Verträge, insbesondere zu Fragen der Qualitätssicherung. Ebenso konnten jedoch erhebliche Unterschiede festgestellt werden, die am deutlichsten hinsichtlich der Qualifikationsvoraussetzungen ausgefallen sind.

Schlussfolgerung Zwischen den Verträgen bestehen zum Teil sehr gegensätzliche Festlegungen, die sich einer inhaltlich begründeten Logik entziehen und nicht zu erklärende Ungleichheiten in der Versorgung der Empfänger häuslicher Krankenpflege erzeugen. Eine Verständigung über zentrale Fragen der häuslichen Krankenpflege ist ebenso angezeigt wie deren grundsätzliche Weiterentwicklung.
6q13q14.3 Microdeletion Syndrome with Severe Hypotonia and Facial Dysmorphism: Genotype–Phenotype Correlation
Authors: Goyal Manisha , Faruq Mohammed , Gupta Ashok , Shrivastava Divya , Shamim Uzma
Published: January 2021

Hypotonia is a symptom of diminished tone of skeletal muscle and can be nongenetic or a part of genetic syndrome. Hypotonia, developmental delay, and facial dysmorphism are nonspecific findings observed in many genetic syndromes mostly in chromosomal microdeletion and duplication. Here we report a case with severe hypotonia and facial dysmorphism, diagnosed with deletion at 6q13q14.3 by array comparative genomic hybridization (CGH) at very early age. Recent genetic diagnostic technologies such as array CGH may enable clinicians to diagnose chromosomal abnormalities earlier and provide appropriate medical management
Fabrication and characterization of exchange-biased magnetic Janus particles
Authors: Kim Meeri
Published: January 2021

Depositing an in-plane exchange bias layer system on silica spheres results in a remanent onion state, potentially leading to more precise motion control of particles for microfluidic applications.
How well do learners know derived words in a second language?
Authors: Laufer Batia , Webb Stuart , Kim Su Kyung , Yohanan Beverley
Published: January 2021

The study investigates derivational knowledge of second language (L2) learners as a function of four variables: learner
proficiency, word family frequency, derived word frequency, and affix type as suggested by two affix difficulty hierarchies. Seventy-nine
EFL learners at two proficiency levels received two tests, the VST – Vocabulary Size Test (Nation &
Beglar, 2007) and a custom-made ‘Derivatives Test’, which included derived forms of VST base words. We performed the following
within-participant comparisons: knowledge of base words and knowledge of their derived forms, knowledge of derived forms from high-, medium, and low-frequency word families and knowledge of derivatives at different affix difficulty levels. Knowledge of basewords and their derivatives was
statistically equivalent for advanced learners. However, a difference was found between the categories for less advanced learners. The
findings also revealed learner proficiency and base word frequency effects, partial support for the two affix difficulty hierarchies, and no
support for the effect of derivative frequency.