bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inferences for Alpha Power Exponential Distribution Using Adaptive Progressively Type-II Hybrid Censored Data with Applications
Authors: Alotaibi Refah , Elshahhat Ahmed , Rezk Hoda , Nassar Mazen
Published: March 2022

One of the most important asymmetrical probability distributions that recently presented as an extension of the conventional exponential distribution is the alpha power exponential distribution. It may be compared to various asymmetrical well-known models, such as Weibull and gamma distributions. As a result, using an adaptive progressive Type-II hybrid censoring scheme, this paper investigates the estimation problems of the alpha power exponential distribution. Maximum likelihood and Bayesian methods are used to estimate unknown parameters, reliability, and hazard rate functions. Under the assumption of independent gamma priors and symmetric loss function, Bayesian estimators are examined. The Bayesian credible intervals and estimated confidence intervals of the relevant values are also calculated. The various estimating approaches are evaluated using a simulation study that considers various sample sizes and censoring schemes. Furthermore, numerous optimality criteria are examined, and the best progressive censoring schemes are offered. Finally, for an explanation, two real data sets from engineering and chemical fields are provided to show the applicability of the asymmetrical alpha power exponential distribution. The Bayesian method for estimating the parameters and reliability indices of the alpha power exponential distribution is recommended based on numerical results, especially when the number of observed data is small.
A Type I Generalized Logistic Distribution: Solving Its Estimation Problems with a Bayesian Approach and Numerical Applications Based on Simulated and Engineering Data
Authors: Lagos-Álvarez Bernardo , Jerez-Lillo Nixon , Navarrete Jean P. , Figueroa-Zúñiga Jorge , Leiva Víctor
Published: March 2022

The family of logistic type distributions has been widely studied and applied in the literature. However, certain estimation problems exist in some members of this family. Particularly, the three-parameter type I generalized logistic distribution presents these problems, where the parameter space must be restricted for the existence of their maximum likelihood estimators. In this paper, motivated by the complexities that arise in the inference under the likelihood approach utilizing this distribution, we propose a Bayesian approach to solve these problems. A simulation study is carried out to assess the performance of some posterior distributional characteristics, such as the mean, using Monte Carlo Markov chain methods. To illustrate the potentiality of the Bayesian estimation in the three-parameter type I generalized logistic distribution, we apply the proposed method to real-world data related to the copper metallurgical engineering area.
Distinctions Organize Information in Mind and Nature: Empirical Findings of Identity–Other Distinctions (D) in Cognitive and Material Complexity
Authors: Cabrera Derek , Cabrera Laura , Cabrera Elena
Published: March 2022

The transdisciplinary importance of distinctions is well-established as foundational to such diverse phenomena as recognition, identification, individual and social identity, marginalization, externalities, boundaries, concept formation, etc., and synonymous general ideas, such as thingness, concepts, nodes, objects, etc. Cabrera provides a formal description of and predictions for identity–other distinctions (D) or “D-rule” as one of four universals for the organization of information that is foundational to systems and systems thinking, as well as the consilience of knowledge. This paper presents seven empirical studies in which (unless otherwise noted) software was used to create an experiment for subjects to complete a task and/or answer a question. The samples varied for each study (ranging from N = 407 to N = 34,398) and were generalizable to a normal distribution of the US population. These studies support—with high statistical significance—the predictions made by DSRP theory regarding identity–other distinctions including its: universality as an observable phenomenon in both mind (cognitive complexity) and nature (ontological complexity) (i.e., parallelism); internal structures and dynamics; mutual dependencies on other universals (i.e., relationships, systems, and perspectives); role in structural predictions; and efficacy as a metacognitive skill. In conclusion, these data suggest the observable and empirical existence, universality, efficacy, and parallelism (between cognitive and ontological complexity) of identity–other distinctions (D).
Editorial for the Special Issue “Asymptotic Safety in Quantum Gravity”
Authors: Pereira Antonio D.
Published: March 2022

Asymptotically safe quantum gravity (ASQG) attempts to provide a standard quantum-field theoretic description of quantum spacetime across arbitrarily small length scales [...]
D-Branes in Para-Hermitian Geometries
Authors: Marotta Vincenzo Emilio , Szabo Richard J.
Published: March 2022

We introduce T-duality invariant versions of D-branes in doubled geometry using a global covariant framework based on para-Hermitian geometry and metric algebroids. We define D-branes as conformal boundary conditions for the open string version of the Born sigma-model, where they are given by maximally isotropic vector bundles which do not generally admit the standard geometric picture in terms of submanifolds. When reduced to the conventional sigma-model description of a physical string background as the leaf space of a foliated para-Hermitian manifold, integrable branes yield D-branes as leaves of foliations which are interpreted as Dirac structures on the physical spacetime. We define a notion of generalised para-complex D-brane, which realises our D-branes as para-complex versions of topological A/B-branes. We illustrate how our formalism recovers standard D-branes in the explicit example of reductions from doubled nilmanifolds.
Genomic Epidemiology of SARS-CoV-2 in Tocantins State and the Diffusion of P.1.7 and AY.99.2 Lineages in Brazil
Authors: de Souza Ueric José Borges , dos Santos Raíssa Nunes , de Melo Fernando Lucas , Belmok Aline , Galvão Jucimária Dantas , de Rezende Tereza Cristina Vieira , Cardoso Franciano Dias Pereira , Carvalho Rogério Fernandes , da Silva Oliveira Monike , Ribeiro Junior Jose Carlos , Gabev Evgeni Evgeniev , Sabino Ester Cerdeira , Arns Clarice Weis , Ribeiro Bergmann Morais , Spilki Fernando Rosado , Campos Fabrício Souza
Published: March 2022

Tocantins is a state in the cross-section between the Central-West, North and Northeast regions of Brazilian territory; it is a gathering point for travelers and transportation from the whole country. In this study, 9493 genome sequences, including 241 local SARS-CoV-2 samples (collected from 21 December 2020, to 16 December 2021, and sequenced in the MinION platform) were analyzed with the following aims: (i) identify the relative prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 lineages in the state of Tocantins; (ii) analyze them phylogenetically against global SARS-CoV-2 sequences; and (iii) hypothesize the viral dispersal routes of the two most abundant lineages found in our study using phylogenetic and phylogeographic approaches. The performed analysis demonstrated that the majority of the strains sequenced during the period belong to the Gamma P.1.7 (32.4%) lineage, followed by Delta AY.99.2 (27.8%), with the first detection of VOC Omicron. As expected, there was mainly a dispersion of P.1.7 from the state of São Paulo to Tocantins, with evidence of secondary spreads from Tocantins to Goiás, Mato Grosso, Amapá, and Pará. Rio de Janeiro was found to be the source of AY.99.2 and from then, multiple cluster transmission was observed across Brazilian states, especially São Paulo, Paraiba, Federal District, and Tocantins. These data show the importance of trade routes as pathways for the transportation of the virus from Southeast to Northern Brazil.
Staging Fibrosis in Chronic Viral Hepatitis
Authors: Cardoso Ana Carolina , Figueiredo-Mendes Claudio , Villela-Nogueira Cristiane A. , Marcellin Patrick
Published: March 2022

Staging fibrosis accurately has always been a challenge in viral hepatitis and other liver diseases. Liver biopsy is an imperfect gold standard due to its intra and interobserver agreement limitations and additional characteristics such as its safety and cost. Hence, non-invasive tests have been developed to stage liver fibrosis. In addition to serological biomarkers, physical tests with reasonable accuracy are available and adopted in the daily clinic regarding viral hepatitis fibrosis staging. In this review, we discuss the published data regarding the staging of liver fibrosis in chronic hepatitis B and C, emphasizing non-invasive markers of fibrosis, both serological and physical. Moreover, we also discuss a persistent central gap, the evaluation of liver fibrosis after HCV cure.
Emerging Respiratory Viruses of Cats
Authors: Palombieri Andrea , Di Profio Federica , Fruci Paola , Sarchese Vittorio , Martella Vito , Marsilio Fulvio , Di Martino Barbara
Published: March 2022

In recent years, advances in diagnostics and deep sequencing technologies have led to the identification and characterization of novel viruses in cats as protoparviruses and chaphamaparvoviruses, unveiling the diversity of the feline virome in the respiratory tract. Observational, epidemiological and experimental data are necessary to demonstrate firmly if some viruses are able to cause disease, as this information may be confounded by virus- or host-related factors. Also, in recent years, researchers were able to monitor multiple examples of transmission to felids of viruses with high pathogenic potential, such as the influenza virus strains H5N1, H1N1, H7N2, H5N6 and H3N2, and in the late 2019, the human hypervirulent coronavirus SARS-CoV-2. These findings suggest that the study of viral infections always requires a multi-disciplinary approach inspired by the One Health vision. By reviewing the literature, we provide herewith an update on the emerging viruses identified in cats and their potential association with respiratory disease.
Updates on the Epidemiology of the Human T-Cell Leukemia Virus Type 1 Infection in the Countries of the Eastern Mediterranean Regional Office of the World Health Organization with Special Emphasis on the Situation in Iran
Authors: Hedayati-Moghaddam Mohammad Reza , Jafarzadeh Esfehani Reza , El Hajj Hiba , Bazarbachi Ali
Published: March 2022

Background: The epidemiology and prevalence of the Human T-cell leukemia virus type-1 (HTLV-1) infection represent a recommended priority by global health agencies. An in-depth revision to update the status of this infection in countries including those of the Eastern Mediterranean Regional Office (EMRO) of the World Health Organization is hence required. Methods: Ninety-seven studies evaluating the HTLV-1 infection in low- and high-risk populations in EMRO countries were retrieved from the international electronic databases and were used to assess the epidemiological status of the infection in these countries. Results: Most epidemiologic reports were published from Iran, with more than 50% of Iranian prisoners and around 4% of healthy individuals reported to have the infection. In Egypt, a considerable prevalence of the virus spans around 1.11% of blood donors. Foci of HTLV-1 infection are also present in some countries and require a careful epidemiological evaluation. In the other EMRO countries, a lower prevalence that does not exceed 1% was reported. Conclusion: The epidemiology and prevalence of HTLV-1 in the EMRO countries require a tight revision and update. Published studies reveal a scarce distribution of the virus in the African countries of EMRO, while a lower prevalence is denoted in the Asian countries of EMRO, except in Iran, where the prevalence is high.
The Interplay between Viruses and Host DNA Sensors
Authors: Huérfano Sandra , Šroller Vojtech , Bruštíková Kateřina , Horníková Lenka , Forstová Jitka
Published: March 2022

DNA virus infections are often lifelong and can cause serious diseases in their hosts. Their recognition by the sensors of the innate immune system represents the front line of host defence. Understanding the molecular mechanisms of innate immunity responses is an important prerequisite for the design of effective antivirotics. This review focuses on the present state of knowledge surrounding the mechanisms of viral DNA genome sensing and the main induced pathways of innate immunity responses. The studies that have been performed to date indicate that herpesviruses, adenoviruses, and polyomaviruses are sensed by various DNA sensors. In non-immune cells, STING pathways have been shown to be activated by cGAS, IFI16, DDX41, or DNA-PK. The activation of TLR9 has mainly been described in pDCs and in other immune cells. Importantly, studies on herpesviruses have unveiled novel participants (BRCA1, H2B, or DNA-PK) in the IFI16 sensing pathway. Polyomavirus studies have revealed that, in addition to viral DNA, micronuclei are released into the cytosol due to genotoxic stress. Papillomaviruses, HBV, and HIV have been shown to evade DNA sensing by sophisticated intracellular trafficking, unique cell tropism, and viral or cellular protein actions that prevent or block DNA sensing. Further research is required to fully understand the interplay between viruses and DNA sensors.
Inhibition of the IFN-α JAK/STAT Pathway by MERS-CoV and SARS-CoV-1 Proteins in Human Epithelial Cells
Authors: Zhang Yamei , Gargan Siobhan , Roche Fiona M. , Frieman Matthew , Stevenson Nigel J.
Published: March 2022

Coronaviruses (CoVs) have caused several global outbreaks with relatively high mortality rates, including Middle East Respiratory Syndrome coronavirus (MERS)-CoV, which emerged in 2012, and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS)-CoV-1, which appeared in 2002. The recent emergence of SARS-CoV-2 highlights the need for immediate and greater understanding of the immune evasion mechanisms used by CoVs. Interferon (IFN)-α is the body’s natural antiviral agent, but its Janus kinase/signal transducer and activators of transcription (JAK/STAT) signalling pathway is often antagonized by viruses, thereby preventing the upregulation of essential IFN stimulated genes (ISGs). Therapeutic IFN-α has disappointingly weak clinical responses in MERS-CoV and SARS-CoV-1 infected patients, indicating that these CoVs inhibit the IFN-α JAK/STAT pathway. Here we show that in lung alveolar A549 epithelial cells expression of MERS-CoV-nsp2 and SARS-CoV-1-nsp14, but not MERS-CoV-nsp5, increased basal levels of total and phosphorylated STAT1 & STAT2 protein, but reduced IFN-α-mediated phosphorylation of STAT1-3 and induction of MxA. While MERS-CoV-nsp2 and SARS-CoV-1-nsp14 similarly increased basal levels of STAT1 and STAT2 in bronchial BEAS-2B epithelial cells, unlike in A549 cells, they did not enhance basal pSTAT1 nor pSTAT2. However, both viral proteins reduced IFN-α-mediated induction of pSTAT1-3 and ISGs (MxA, ISG15 and PKR) in BEAS-2B cells. Furthermore, even though IFN-α-mediated induction of pSTAT1-3 was not affected by MERS-CoV-nsp5 expression in BEAS-2B cells, downstream ISG induction was reduced, revealing that MERS-CoV-nsp5 may use an alternative mechanism to reduce antiviral ISG induction in this cell line. Indeed, we subsequently discovered that all three viral proteins inhibited STAT1 nuclear translocation in BEAS-2B cells, unveiling another layer of inhibition by which these viral proteins suppress responses to Type 1 IFNs. While these observations highlight cell line-specific differences in the immune evasion effects of MERS-CoV and SARS-CoV-1 proteins, they also demonstrate the broad spectrum of immune evasion strategies these deadly coronaviruses use to stunt antiviral responses to Type IFN.
Evaluation of Two-Month Antibody Levels after Heterologous ChAdOx1-S/BNT162b2 Vaccination Compared to Homologous ChAdOx1-S or BNT162b2 Vaccination
Authors: Barocci Simone , Orlandi Chiara , Diotallevi Aurora , Buffi Gloria , Ceccarelli Marcello , Vandini Daniela , Carlotti Eugenio , Galluzzi Luca , Rocchi Marco Bruno Luigi , Magnani Mauro , Casabianca Anna
Published: March 2022

We evaluated the post-vaccination humoral response of three real-world cohorts. Vaccinated subjects primed with ChAdOx1-S and boosted with BNT162b2 mRNA vaccine were compared to homologous dosing (BNT162b2/BNT162b2 and ChAdOx1-S/ChAdOx1-S). Serum samples were collected two months after vaccination from a total of 1248 subjects. The results showed that the heterologous vaccine schedule induced a significantly higher humoral response followed by homologous BNT162b2/BNT162b2 and ChAdOx1-S/ChAdOx1-S vaccines (p < 0.0001). Moreover, analyzing factors (i.e., vaccine schedule, sex, age, BMI, smoking, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, respiratory tract diseases, COVID-19 diagnosis, vaccine side effects) influencing the IgG anti-S response, we found that only the type of vaccine affected the antibody titer (p < 0.0001). Only mild vaccine reactions resolved within few days (40% of subjects) and no severe side effects for either homologous groups or the heterologous group were reported. Our data support the use of heterologous vaccination as an effective and safe alternative to increase humoral immunity against COVID-19.
Durability and Cross-Reactivity of SARS-CoV-2 mRNA Vaccine in Adolescent Children
Authors: Burns Madeleine D. , Boribong Brittany P. , Bartsch Yannic C. , Loiselle Maggie , St. Denis Kerri J. , Sheehan Maegan L. , Chen Jessica W. , Davis Jameson P. , Lima Rosiane , Edlow Andrea G. , Fasano Alessio , Balazs Alejandro B. , Alter Galit , Yonker Lael M.
Published: March 2022

Emergent SARS-CoV-2 variants and waning humoral immunity in vaccinated individuals have resulted in increased infections and hospitalizations. Children are not spared from infection nor complications of COVID-19, and the recent recommendation for boosters in individuals ages 12 years or older calls for broader understanding of the adolescent immune profile after mRNA vaccination. We tested the durability and cross-reactivity of anti-SARS-CoV-2 serologic responses over a six-month time course in vaccinated adolescents against the SARS-CoV-2 D614G (“wild type”) and Omicron antigens. Serum from 77 adolescents showed that anti-Spike antibodies wane significantly over six months. After completion of a two-vaccine series, cross-reactivity against Omicron-specific receptor-binding domain (RBD) was seen. Functional humoral activation against wild type and Omicron SARS-CoV-2 also declines over time in vaccinated adolescent children. Evidence of waning mRNA-induced vaccine immunity underscores vulnerabilities in long-term pediatric protection against SARS-CoV-2 infection, while cross-reactivity highlights the additional benefits of vaccination. Characterization of adolescent immune signatures post-vaccination will inform guidance on vaccine platforms and timelines, and ultimately optimize immunoprotection of children.
COVID-19 Parental Vaccine Hesitancy in Romania: Nationwide Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Manolescu Loredana Sabina Cornelia , Zaharia Corneliu Nicolae , Dumitrescu Anca Irina , Prasacu Irina , Radu Mihaela Corina , Boeru Adrian Calin , Boidache Liliana , Nita Irina , Necsulescu Andrei , Medar Cosmin , Cristache Corina Marilena , Chivu Razvan Daniel
Published: March 2022

Background: COVID-19 vaccination started in Romania in December 2020. Child vaccination started in 2021 with children aged 12–15 years in August. For children aged 5–11 years, vaccination started in January 2022. The aim of our study was to describe COVID-19 vaccination hesitancy in Romanian children and vaccine acceptability in the general population. As parental consent is required for child vaccination in Romania, these aspects have a significant association. Methods: An analytical cross-sectional survey was conducted in October and November 2021 during the peak of the 4th COVID-19 wave. Results: After validation, 1645 participants formed the main study group: median age 35 years, 72.83% women, and 35.44% from the medical domain. In total, 1311 (79.70%) participants were vaccinated against COVID-19 and 188 (11.42%) had vaccinated their 12–18-year-old children against COVID-19. Parents’ level of education, geographic area of residence, and COVID-19 vaccination status were significantly associated with COVID-19 vaccination. The hesitancy factors of child vaccination included the novelty of COVID-19 vaccines (62, 47.32%), fear of adverse reactions (32, 24.42%), and anti-vaccinism in general (29, 22.13%). In the studied group, only 188 (11.42%) participants recommended vaccination of 5–11-year-old children. Vaccine acceptability was higher in the general population (1311, 79.70%) than in the medical domain (326 out of 583, 55.91%). General vaccine hesitancy was based mainly on beliefs regarding inefficiency (131, 39.22%) and fears about the side effects of the vaccine (76, 22.75%). Conclusions: Overall, the acceptability of COVD-19 vaccines in the Romanian population was influenced by the level of education, area of residence, and being a COVID-19-vaccinated parent. Public health intervention programs are essential.
Phase 3 Randomized, Multicenter, Placebo-Controlled Study to Evaluate Safety, Immunogenicity, and Lot-to-Lot Consistency of an Adjuvanted Cell Culture-Derived, H5N1 Subunit Influenza Virus Vaccine in Healthy Adult Subjects
Authors: Peterson James , Van Twuijver Esther , Versage Eve , Hohenboken Matthew
Published: March 2022

A cell-based process may be better suited for vaccine production during a highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) pandemic. This was a phase 3, randomized, controlled, observer-blind, multicenter study evaluated safety, immunogenicity, and lot-to-lot consistency of two doses of a MF59-adjuvanted, H5N1 influenza pandemic vaccine manufactured on a cell culture platform (aH5N1c) in 3196 healthy adult subjects, stratified into two age groups: 18 to <65 and ≥65 years. Immunogenicity was measured using hemagglutination inhibition (HI) titers. HI antibody responses increased after the first aH5N1c vaccine dose, and 3 weeks after the second vaccination (Day 43), age-appropriate US Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research (CBER) and former European Medicines Authority Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (EMA CHMP) immunogenicity criteria were met. Six months after the first vaccination, HI titers were above baseline but no longer met CBER and CHMP criteria. No relevant changes over time were seen in placebo subjects. Solicited AEs were more frequent in the active treatment than the placebo group, primarily due to injection site pain. No serious adverse events (SAEs) related to aH5N1c- were reported. aH5N1c influenza vaccine elicited high levels of antibodies following two vaccinations administered 21 days apart and met both CBER and former CHMP immunogenicity criteria at Day 43 among both younger and older adults with a clinically acceptable safety profile. Consistency of the three consecutive aH5N1c vaccine lots was demonstrated (NCT02839330).
A Retrospective Evaluation of the Steroid-Sparing Effect of Oral Modified Ciclosporin for Treatment of Canine Pemphigus Foliaceus
Authors: Chong Eric , Austel Michaela , Banovic Frane
Published: March 2022

The efficacy of ciclosporin as an adjuvant immunosuppressant administered with glucocorticoids (GCs) for induction of canine PF remission is unknown. This study is a retrospective review of medical records from 2015 to 2020 to evaluate the therapeutic outcomes of 11 PF dogs treated with oral modified ciclosporin and GCs. Concurrent GCs were given with ciclosporin to all PF dogs. Nine dogs (9/11) achieved complete remission (CR); five dogs received ciclosporin at a mean dose of 6.2 mg/kg/day; and four dogs received a combination of ciclosporin and ketoconazole at a mean dose of 3 mg/kg/day, respectively. Two dogs (2/11) showed only 25% or poor response, with the development of new PF lesions during treatment. The mean duration of ciclosporin therapy for nine dogs to achieve CR was 65 days (median 57 days, range 24–119 days). Slow tapering of oral GCs while continuing ciclosporin at the same dose and frequency in nine dogs with CR led to recurrence of PF lesions in four dogs, whereas, in five dogs, oral glucocorticoids were discontinued without a PF flare. Oral modified ciclosporin combined with GCs achieved CR in 9 out of 11 PF dogs during the induction phase in this study.
Pathology and Molecular Epidemiology of Fowl Adenovirus Serotype 4 Outbreaks in Broiler Chicken in Abu Dhabi Emirate, UAE
Authors: Ishag Hassan Zackaria Ali , Terab Abdelnasir Mohammed Adam , El Tigani-Asil El Tigani Ahmed , Bensalah Oum Keltoum , Khalil Nasereldien Altaib Hussein , Khalafalla Abdelmalik Ibrahim , Al Hammadi Zulaikha Mohamed Abdel Hameed , Shah Asma Abdi Mohamed , Al Muhairi Salama Suhail Mohammed
Published: March 2022

Background: Fowl adenovirus serotype 4 (FAdV-4), causing inclusion body hepatitis (IBH) and hydropericardium hepatitis syndrome (HPS), is responsible for the significant economic losses in poultry industry worldwide. This study describes FAdV disease and molecular characteristics of the virus as the first report in UAE. Methodology: Clinical, necropsy, histopathology, qPCR and phylogenetic analysis of hexon gene were used to diagnose and characterize the virus. Results: The age of the infected broiler chicken was 2–4 weeks. The morbidity and mortality rates ranged between 50 and 100% and 44 and 100%, respectively. Clinically, sudden onset, diarrhea, anemia and general weakness were recorded. At necropsy, acute necrotic hepatitis, with swollen, yellowish discoloration, enlarged and friable liver; hydropericarditis with hydropericardium effusions; and enlarged mottled spleen were observed. Histopathology examination revealed degeneration and necrosis, lymphocytic infiltration and inclusion bodies. The qPCR analysis detected the virus in all samples tested. Hexon gene sequence analysis identified FAdV serotype 4, species C as the major cause of FAdV infections in UAE in 2020, and this strain was closely related to FAdV-4 circulating in Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, Nepal and China. Conclusion: The serotype 4, species C, was the common FAdV strain causing IBH and HPS episodes in the region. This result may help design effective vaccination programs that rely on field serotypes.
Candidate Genes in Bull Semen Production Traits: An Information Approach Review
Authors: Modiba Mamokoma Cathrine , Nephawe Khathutshelo Agree , Mdladla Khanyisile Hadebe , Lu Wenfa , Mtileni Bohani
Published: March 2022

Semen quality plays a crucial role in the successful implementation of breeding programs, especially where artificial insemination (AI) is practiced. Bulls with good semen traits have good fertility and can produce a volume of high semen per ejaculation. The aim of this review is to use an information approach to highlight candidate genes and their relation to bull semen production traits. The use of genome-wide association studies (GWAS) has been demonstrated to be successful in identifying genomic regions and individual variations associated with production traits. Studies have reported over 40 genes associated with semen traits using Illumina BeadChip single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNPs).
A Case Study on Convection Initiation Associated with Horizontal Convective Rolls over Ili River Valley in Xinjiang, Northwest China
Authors: Kong Meini , Abulikemu Abuduwaili , Zheng Jingjing , Aireti Mangsuer , An Dawei
Published: March 2022

The mechanism of convection initiation (CI) over Ili River Valley (IRV) in Xinjiang, Northwest China, was investigated based on both weather stations and radar observations and Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model simulation. Observations showed that many CIs occurred repeatedly, and most of them underwent significant intensification both in size and intensity, and eventually formed an extreme rainfall-producing mesoscale convective system (MCS) in the IRV. Besides, there was a relatively strong boundary layer westerly jet (BLWJJ, horizontal wind speed exceeding 12 m s−1) along with significant cold advection. The overall features of the CIs and associated MCS are generally well reproduced by the WRF simulation. Simulation results showed that there were some horizontal convective rolls (HCRs) developed ahead of the BLWJ and generated significant convergence (up to ~2 × 10−3 s−1) in the low level that further induced intense updraft aloft (vertical velocity exceeding 3.5 m s−1) which finally resulted in the CIs. Further investigations indicated that, as the main contributor to the HCRs, the BLWJ was generated due to the funneling effect when the descending westerlies entered the middle reaches of the IRV. A qualitative analysis based on the quasi-geostrophic omega equation revealed that the descending flow in mid- to lower troposphere in the middle reaches of the IRV was mainly contributed by the vorticity advection, while the descending in the lower troposphere was dominated by both vorticity advection and cold advection.
Propiedades que distinguen la crasis de la contracción en griego ático
Authors: Him Fábrega Rodrigo
Published: March 2022

En griego ático, la crasis obedece dos restricciones prosódicas: (i) un instrumento antihiático, que impide núcleos de sílaba contiguos; (ii) una restricción de cantidad máxima, que limita las moras a dos por núcleo de sílaba. Así, crasis y contracción son indistintas. Pero los procesos difieren en los mecanismos de propagación de rasgos, acentuación y escrutinio de núcleos. En la crasis, el núcleo más prominente aparece a la derecha, la propagación va de derecha a izquierda, y el escrutinio comienza desde la izquierda. Estos son valores opuestos a los de la contracción. La razón radica en que la contracción es léxica, pero la crasis es post-léxica.
El inagotable mito de Odiseo de los aedos a la canción de autor contemporánea
Authors: López Jimeno Amor
Published: March 2022

El mito de Odiseo y su viaje se han convertido en un mitema universal y uno de los argumentos preferidos por la tradición clásica, con numerosas reinterpretaciones en diversas manifestaciones artísticas. Analizamos la intertextualidad de la Odisea en la canción de autor contemporánea, como heredera de la tradición aédica, a partir de diversos ejemplos en español, catalán, griego e italiano.
La travesía infernal en Cataplus de Luciano: una poética de invención en el cruce por la Estigia (Cat. 18-22)
Authors: Martínez María Victoria
Published: March 2022

El descenso o el tirano (Cat.) es un diálogo de Luciano de Samosata formado por los tópicos retóricos del Hades y de la tiranía. Los estudios sobre esta pieza se centraron en el tema del abuso de poder. Sin embargo, Mestre (2013) ha señalado la relevancia del mito como elemento en tensión con la sátira. Este trabajo propone un análisis de las estrategias de reelaboración de las versiones míticas. El propósito es mostrar que las relaciones entre mito y sátira habilitan niveles de sentido, donde no solo puede leerse la ridiculización de los excesos de poder, sino también la elaboración paródica.
Study on Dynamic Characteristics of Mars Entry Module in Transonic and Supersonic Speeds
Authors: Li Qi , Zhao Rui , Zhang Sijun , Rao Wei , Wei Haogong
Published: March 2022

The aerodynamic configuration of the Tianwen-1 Mars entry module that adopts a blunt-nosed and short body shape has obvious dynamic instability from transonic to supersonic speeds, which may bring risk to parachute deployment. The unsteady detached eddy of the entry module cannot be accurately simulated by the Reynolds-Averaged Navier-Stokes (RANS) model, while the computational cost for direct numerical simulation (DNS) and large eddy simulation (LES) is huge. It is difficult to implement these methods in the coupled engineering calculation of unsteady flow and motion. This paper proposes the integrated numerical simulation method of computational fluid dynamics and rigid body dynamics (CFD/RBD) based on detached eddy simulation (DES) and calculates and studies the dynamic characteristics of attitude oscillation of the Mars entry module in free flight from transonic to supersonic speeds with one degree of freedom (1-DOF) at small releasing angle of attack. In addition, the unstable range of Mach number and angle of attack are determined, and the effect of different afterbody shapes on dynamic stability is analyzed.
Bir Sivil Toplum Kuruluşunda Örgüt İklimi ile Örgütsel Bağlılık Arasında İlişkinin Araştırılması
Authors: BAYDİLİ Kursad , ÖZCAN Özge , BEKTEMÜR Güven
Published: March 2022

Amaç: Bu çalışmada sağlık alanında faaliyet gösteren bir sivil toplum kuruluşunun çalışanlarında örgüt iklimi ile örgütsel bağlılık arasında ilişki varlığının araştırılması amaçlanmaktadır.Gereç ve Yöntem: Çalışma 07.11.2019 – 07.12.2019 tarihleri arasında İstanbul’da sağlık alanında faaliyet gösteren bir sivil toplum kuruluşunun genel merkez ve diğer merkezlerinde 6 ay ve daha fazla süredir çalışmakta olan kişiler ile gerçekleştirilmiştir. Bu çalışmada örgütsel bağlılık ölçeği ve örgüt iklimi ölçekleri 123 çalışana gönüllülük esasına dayalı olarak uygulanmıştır. Elde edilen veriler SPSS 25 paket programı kullanılarak gerekli istatistiksel analizlerle değerlendirilmiştir.Bulgular: Demografik değişkenler bakımından ölçek puanları ile karşılaştırmalar gerçekleştirilmiş; örgütsel bağlılık toplam, örgüt iklimi toplam, üstün desteği, bağdaşıklık, içsel takdir, tarafsızlık, duygusal bağlılık, devam bağlılığı ve normatif bağlılık puanları bakımından örgüt iklimi ölçeği alt boyutlarından iş yükü baskısı puanları haricinde anlamlı farklılık olmadığı tespit edilmiştir. İş yükü baskısı puanları bakımından ise 1-3 yıl arasında çalışma süresine sahip katılımcıların diğer katılımcılardan daha yüksek puanlara sahip oldukları tespit edilmiştir. Örgütsel bağlılık toplam puanları ile örgüt iklimi toplam puanları arasında pozitif yönlü, orta düzeyde ilişki olduğu gözlemlenmiştir.Sonuç: Örgüt iklimi ile örgütsel bağlılık arasında pozitif yönlü orta düzeyde ilişki tespit edilmiş olduğundan, üst yöneticilerin örgüt iklimine yönelik iyileştirici çalışmalar yapması çalışanlarda örgütsel bağlılık düzeylerinin de artmasına katkı yapacaktır.
Clinical and immunological features of activation of latent herpesvirus infection in children with rotavirus infection
Authors: Sliepchenko M.Yu. , Kuznetsov S.V.
Published: March 2022

The analysis of clinical parameters and indicators of immune response in rotavirus gastroenteritis in children aged 12 to 36 months infected with herpes viruses was performed. Verification of the diagnosis of RVI was carried out by isolating rotavirus antigen from the feces of patients by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and the corresponding IgM antibodies from the blood. Also, all children were examined for herpes virus infection types 1, 2, 4, 5, 6. The level of specific IgG and IgM to these herpesviruses was determined by ELISA. In the case of a positive result, the presence of DNA (qualitatively) was determined by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). PCR blood tests for the presence of herpesvirus DNA were performed twice, in the acute period of RVI and in the period of early convalescence. The first group included 71 children in whom rotavirus gastroenteritis occurred on the background of latent herpesvirus infection, in the second ¬ 15 children in whom during the early convalescence there was a reactivation of herpesvirus infection. The obtained data indicate that the activation of herpesvirus infection occurs against the background of reduced immunoregulatory index in the acute period of the disease, and in the period of early convalescence RVI is characterized by the preservation of elevated CD 16+ cells and proinflammatory cytokines (IL-1β and TNF-α). in our opinion, leads to a prolongation of clinical symptoms of rotavirus infection.

Keywords: children, rotavirus infection, latent and active herpesvirus infection, cellular and humoral immunity, cytokines.
The use of criminological classification of the pedophiles to prevent sex crimes against minors
Authors: Kolbasin Vladislav
Published: March 2022

The article deals with the topical issues of using the criminological classification of the pedophiles in order to prevent sexual violence toward minors. Basing on the analyzed criminal cases (interviews with victims, photo- and video materials, criminological background materials, criminal statistics) as well as academic research in that field the author claims a special role and importance of introducing special criminological knowledge into the work of police. Namely: the specifics of the determination of certain types of crimes, the development of criminological methods of preventing various types of criminal behavior, drawing up a criminological profile of a criminal, studying the characteristics of a crime victim. On the top of this the author notes certain errors in the enforcement practices and offers suggestions for enhancement and improvement of the police work in the field of prevention of sex crimes against minors.
Statistical considerations for the exemption from criminal punishment as an institution
Authors: Pudovochkin Yuriy
Published: March 2022

Exemption from criminal punishment is one of the intersectoral legal institutions necessary for the full implementation of the reduction of repression principle. The accumulated judicial experience makes it a pressing task to conduct a holistic statistical analysis of judicial practice in order to identify and reveal the leading trends and patterns in the functioning of the institution of exemption from punishment. Such studies have not been carried out in modern Russian science to date. The article presents a first approach to the analysis of official statistical data reflecting the court positions on the exemption from the punishment. The data shows that the scale of exemption from punishment remains stable and the institution is applied mainly and regularly at the stage of execution of the sentence. The study also lets us identify five models of exemption from punishment: extrajudicial, imperative, clinical, social-riskological, and criminal-riskological. Concurrently in the last five years, there have been some important changes in the structure of court practice: amid the decline in the number of amnestied persons, the number of persons released from punishment in an individual judicial order naturally grows, which leads to a certain adjustment in the scale of application of these models. The main shifts are observed in the increase of the proportion of persons imperatively exempted from punishment at the stage of sentencing due to miscalculations and errors in the preliminary investigation of the crime, as well as in an increase of the proportion of persons whose exemption is based on the ideas of riskological justice. As a result, it has been found that specifically, the riskological model of exemption from punishment at the stage of execution of the sentence constitutes the main array of judicial practice, which meaningfully predetermines the directions for its further analysis and improvement.
Countering extremism in the context of social digitalization
Authors: Usmanov Il'giz , Silaeva Nadezda
Published: March 2022

The authors analyze legal, systematic, and organizational factors of extremist crimes, contributing to the onset of extremism in society, particularly on the Internet, offer the concept for their minimization, and propose a way to improve the counteraction to extremism. Materials and methods. In course of the research, the authors used general scientific methods of inquiry, as well as special scientific methods, such as interviewing, statistical method, comparison, procedures of generalization and interpretation of empirical data, etc. In preparing this study the authors used domestic works on criminology, criminal law, and criminal intelligence, records from the Centre for Counteraction to Extremism of the Interior Ministry of the Republic of Tatarstan, the National Anti-Terrorism Commission of the Republic of Tatarstan. The survey of the practitioners of the Centre for Counteraction to Extremism of the Interior Ministry of the Republic of Tatarstan played an important role in the findings. Results. Following the analysis of modern causes and conditions contributing to the spread of extremism, the authors conclude that the primary cause is the use of the Internet by the supporters of extremist ideology. Based on the results of the survey, the authors analyzed both the empirical data and identified problems. Discussions and conclusions. The analysis conducted by the authors allows to propose a number of theoretical and practical recommendations aimed at extremism prevention.
Issues of differentiation of judicial and disciplinary responsibility of civil servants in the theoretical legacy of I. T. Tarasov
Authors: Egorov Nikita
Published: March 2022

The relevance of the reconstruction and interpretation of the views of the Russian lawyer Ivan Trofimovich Tarasov (1849-1929) is due to the theoretical and practical significance of the questions concerning the search for answers to acute questions of building a rule of law in modern Russia, in which ensuring the legality of the activities of state authorities is the cornerstone. Mechanisms for ensuring the legality of the activities of civil servants, which were formed in the process of the formation of the rule of law, cannot answer all the questions raised, and therefore, the search for ways to improve them is an urgent problem of theoretical and practical jurisprudence. Ideas that were formulated by Russian lawyers at the end of the XIX – beginning of the XX century, but have not yet received proper understanding, can make a significant contribution to solving the problems of our time. One of the authors of such ideas about the legal regulation of public relations was I. T. Tarasov. The article is devoted to the problem of differentiation of judicial and disciplinary responsibility of civil servants, which occupied an important place in the works of I. T. Tarasov, primarily because the institution of legal responsibility of civil servants is one of the main guarantees of ensuring the legality of the activities of public authorities. The main methods of scientific research were general scientific, namely: historical and systemic, as well as special: historical-legal and comparativelegal. The method of reconstruction and interpretation of legal ideas was used. As a result of the conducted research, it is concluded that in the absence of a unified approach to understanding the nature and model of the implementation of the institute of legal responsibility of civil servants in modern legal science, the works of the works of I. T. Tarasov are becoming increasingly relevant, namely the works in which a critical comparative analysis of the effectiveness of the implementation of measures of legal responsibility of civil servants in the late XIX – early XX century was carried out, the criteria for distinguishing judicial and disciplinary responsibility were defined, the main signs of disciplinary and judicial proceedings for bringing civil servants to responsibility were highlighted. The article attempts to systematize the views of I. T. Tarasov (1849–1929) on the institutions of judicial and disciplinary responsibility of civil servants.
Deposition of victim and witness testimony as a new institution in the criminal procedure of the Kyrgyz Republic
Authors: Shestakova Sof'ya , Imanalieva Uulzhan
Published: March 2022

The deposition of victim and witness testimony is a new institution for the criminal procedure of the Kyrgyz Repub lic, introduced only in 2021. The authors analyze the conceptual foundations of this institution and its significance for a trial. They compare its legal model under Kyrgyz legislation with the legislation of the Federal Republic of Germany and a number of former Soviet republics: Kazakhstan, Moldova, Estonia, Ukraine, Lithuania, and the draft of the new Criminal Procedure Code of Armenia. The authors suggest that the importance of deposition lies in the proactive preservation and legalization of the victim and witness testimony obtained during the pre-trial proceedings of the court session («minitrial») as an evidence. One of the main advantages of deposition of testimony according to the authors is giving the defense team a right to apply to the court with a petition for deposition and participate in that procedure independently from the prosecution. Deposition warrants the possibility of testimony disclosure in court proceedings and its use as an evidence providing ground for a court verdict. The introduction of this institution is aimed at strengthening the adversarial principle and the principle of equality of parties, as well as benefits the speedy delivery of justice.
Conditions and evaluation of the effectiveness of spiritual and moral development of students of educational organizations of the MIA of Russia
Authors: Vasileva Zlata
Published: March 2022

The relevance of the research is based on the need to increase the prestige of humanitarian knowledge, which is important for ideological, personal growth and the formation of a comprehensively educated person. The article demonstrates the value of the interpersonal connections in solving the indicated problem. From the point of spiritual and moral growth the interpersonal relationships allow to exchange values and mindsets between the future professionals. In the course of communication teachers and students exchange their values. Mere academic knowledge is not enough: in order to learn, to solve arising conflicts students need choice criterions, and precisely here, in search for reasons, lies the spiritual growth. The exploration of the values, spiritual and moral context of the humanitarian studies by improving teaching methods, involving interactive technologies, involving real life situations of moral conflict, choice is of great importance. The article presents the results of a study that highlights the conditions for the effectiveness of the spiritual and moral growth of students in the process of mastering the humanitarian subjects. The analysis helped author to identify four criteria for evaluating the effectiveness of the spiritual and moral development of students in the process of mastering the humanitarian subjects. These include personal, cognitive, motivational-value, activity approach criteria. The study is based on the comparative analysis and mathematical processing of data using two methods: a questionnaire for identifying self-esteem «Spiritual and moral development of personality» and a projective method «Unfinished sentences» applied at the final stage of the research.
Efficient personnel training among researchers and teaching staff at the higher educational institutions of the Russian Ministry of Internal Affairs
Authors: Hodyakova Nataliya
Published: March 2022

The improvement of the post-graduate studies at the higher educational institutions of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia efficiency depends on the identification of the challenges that arise in the course of personnel training and finding the possible resolution of the found issues. In order to identify the issues leading to the lack of performance of the post-graduates, who currently do not achieve a complete success in thesis defenses, the author compared and analyzed the findings from the identical surveys conducted in 2021 among the adjuncts of the Academy of Management of the Ministry of Internal Affairs and their research advisors. Some of the obtained results are compared with the similar findings acquired in the previous studies. The author used quantitative and qualitative methods to interpret and systemize the answers from the both samples and have identified four distinctive types of problems: 1) issues stemming from social and macro-scientific factors; 2) issues emerging as the part of the institutional process of personnel training; 3) problems of communication between the post-graduates and their research advisors; 4) issues caused by personal characteristics, such as the cognitive and psychological unpreparedness to conduct the research and defend the thesis. Concluding the analysis, the author offers the ways to solve the problems in the sphere of enhancing the competency of higher educational institutions of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia.