bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparative genomic analyses of β-lactamase (blaCMY-42)-encoding plasmids isolated from wastewater treatment plants in Canada
Authors: Ajayi Adeyinka O. , Perry Benjamin J. , Yost Christopher K. , Jamieson Rob C. , Hansen Lisbeth Truelstrup , Rahube Teddie O.
Published: June 2021

Wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) are useful environments for investigating the occurrence, diversity, and evolution of plasmids encoding clinically relevant antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs). Our objective was to isolate and sequence plasmids encoding meropenem resistance from bacterial hosts within Canadian WWTPs. We used two enrichment culture approaches for primary plasmid isolation, followed by screening for antibiotic resistance, conjugative mobility, and stability in enteric bacteria. Isolated plasmids were sequenced using Illumina MiSeq and Sanger sequencing methods. Bioinformatics analyses resolved a multi-resistance IncF/MOBF12 plasmid, pFEMG (209 357 bp), harbouring resistance genes to β-lactam (blaCMY-42, blaTEM-1β, and blaNDM-5), macrolide (mphA-mrx-mphR), tetracycline (tetR-tetB-tetC-tetD), trimethoprim (dfrA12), aminoglycoside (aadA2), and sulfonamide (sul1) antibiotic classes. We also isolated an IncI1/MOBP12 plasmid pPIMR (172 280 bp) carrying similar β-lactamase and a small multi-drug efflux resistance gene cluster (blaCMY-42-blc-sugE) to pFEMG. The co-occurrence of different ARGs within a single 24 552 bp cluster in pFEMG — interspersed with transposons, insertion sequence elements, and a class 1 integron — may be of significant interest to human and veterinary medicine. Additionally, the presence of conjugative and plasmid maintenance genes in the studied plasmids corresponded to observed high conjugative transfer frequencies and stable maintenance. Extensive investigation is required to further understand the fitness trade-offs of plasmids with different types of conjugative transfer and maintenance modules.
$${t {{\bar{t}}}H}$$ production at NNLO: the flavour off-diagonal channels
Authors: Catani Stefano , Fabre Ignacio , Grazzini Massimiliano , Kallweit Stefan
Published: June 2021

We consider QCD radiative corrections to the associated production of a heavy-quark pair ($$Q{{\bar{Q}}}$$

Q

Q

¯

) with a generic colourless system F at hadron colliders. We discuss the resummation formalism for the production of the $$Q{{\bar{Q}}}F$$

Q

Q

¯

F

system at small values of its total transverse momentum $$q_T$$

q
T

. We present the results of the corresponding resummation coefficients at next-to-leading and, partly, next-to-next-to-leading order. The perturbative expansion of the resummation formula leads to the explicit ingredients that can be used to apply the $$q_T$$

q
T

subtraction formalism to fixed-order calculations for this class of processes. We use the $$q_T$$

q
T

subtraction formalism to perform a fully differential perturbative computation for the production of a top-antitop quark pair and a Higgs boson. At next-to-leading order we compare our results with those obtained with established subtraction methods and we find complete agreement. We present, for the first time, the results for the flavour off-diagonal partonic channels at the next-to-next-to-leading order.
Erratum to: Polarization in (quasi-)two-body decays and new physics
Authors: Ajaltouni Z. J. , Di Salvo E.
Published: June 2021

A correction to this paper has been published: https://doi.org/10.1140/epjc/s10052-019-7506-9
Probing short distance gravity using temporal lensing
Authors: Faizal Mir , Patel Hrishikesh
Published: June 2021

It is known that probing gravity in the submillimeter–micrometer range is difficult due to the relative weakness of the gravitational force. We intend to overcome this challenge by using extreme temporal precision to monitor transient events in a gravitational field. We propose a compressed ultrafast photography system called T-CUP to serve this purpose. We show that the T-CUP’s precision of 10 trillion frames per second can allow us to better resolve gravity at short distances. We also show the feasibility of the setup in measuring Yukawa and power-law corrections to gravity which have substantial theoretical motivation.
Application of surface acoustic wave to enhance the photocatalytic degradation efficiency of methylene blue
Authors: Water Walter , Shi Yu-Zhen
Published: June 2021

The TiO2 thin film was grown on a [Formula: see text] Y-axis cut, X-axis propagation lithium niobate substrate by radio frequency magnetron sputtering to fabricate a surface acoustic wave device. The sputtering ratios of argon to oxygen at 20% and post-annealing temperature at [Formula: see text]C for 3 h were controlled to improve the photocatalytic activity of TiO2 thin film. The effects of work frequency and input voltage of the surface acoustic wave device on the methylene blue photocatalytic degradation efficiency of the TiO2 thin film were investigated. The TiO2 thin film was vibrated at radio frequency by surface acoustic wave device to increase the scattering and reactive frequency for methylene blue in liquid. The surface acoustic wave device operated at 28.65 MHz work frequency and 0.95 V input voltage revealed the highest photocatalytic degradation efficiency of methylene blue. Compared to the TiO2 thin film combined with and without surface acoustic wave device, the surface acoustic wave device enhanced the TiO2 thin film photocatalytic degradation efficiency to 46%.
Diversity on Corporate Boards
Authors: Knyazeva Anzhela , Knyazeva Diana , Naveen Lalitha
Published: June 2021

This article reviews existing research on board diversity. What role does diversity of board members play in board governance, and how does it influence firm behavior and firm value? First, given the recent focus on board diversity among institutional investors and regulators, we present stylized facts and time trends in board diversity. Second, we discuss the dimensions of diversity that have been examined in the literature. Third, we study the determinants of board diversity. Finally, we assess the research on the effects of board diversity on firm performance and outcomes. We discuss the endogeneity challenges of studying the impact of diversity on firm value and review the main approaches that existing studies have used to address endogeneity. We conclude with suggestions for future research on board diversity.
Host Adaptation and Virulence in Heteroecious Rust Fungi
Authors: Duplessis Sebastien , Lorrain Cecile , Petre Benjamin , Figueroa Melania , Dodds Peter N. , Aime M. Catherine
Published: June 2021

Rust fungi (Pucciniales, Basidiomycota) are obligate biotrophic pathogens that cause rust diseases in plants, inflicting severe damage to agricultural crops. Pucciniales possess the most complex life cycles known in fungi. These include an alternation of generations, the development of up to five different sporulating stages, and, for many species, the requirement of infecting two unrelated host plants during different parts of their life cycle, termed heteroecism. These fungi have been extensively studied in the past century through microscopy and inoculation studies, providing precise descriptions of their infection processes, although the molecular mechanisms underlying their unique biology are poorly understood. In this review, we cover recent genomic and life cycle transcriptomic studies in several heteroecious rust species, which provide insights into the genetic tool kits associated with host adaptation and virulence, opening new avenues for unraveling their unique evolution.
Information and Communications Technology (ICT) and Agricultural Extension in Developing Countries
Authors: Spielman David , Lecoutere Els , Makhija Simrin , Van Campenhout Bjorn
Published: June 2021

With new possibilities offered by information and communications technology (ICT), an abundance of products, services, and projects has emerged with the promise of revitalizing agricultural extension in developing countries. However, a growing body of evidence suggests that not all ICT-enabled extension approaches are equally effective in improving adoption, productivity, income, or welfare outcomes. In this review, we explore various conceptual and methodological threads in the literature on ICT-enabled extension in developing countries. We examine the role of multiple impact pathways, highlighting how ICTs influence behaviors and preferences,gender and intrahousehold dynamics, spillovers, and public worker incentives. We also explore the opportunities presented by ICT-enabled extension for increasing the methodological rigor with which extension outcomes are identified. These conceptual and methodological insights—coupled with empirical evidence from prior studies—offer direction for several lines of policy-relevant research on ICT-enabled extension.
Recurrent Stress Cardiomyopathy: A Rare Variant in a Young Patient with Undiagnosed Pheochromocytoma
Authors: Lembo Robert , Wesley Paul , Calkins Joe B.
Published: June 2021

Biventricular stress cardiomyopathy is one of several known anatomical variants of reversible cardiomyopathies to occur. We present a case of a young patient with recurrent stress cardiomyopathy complicated by cardiogenic shock in the perioperative period. The cardiomyopathy observed was in a patient with neurofibromatosis type I and undiagnosed pheochromocytoma who presented for intervention of hydrocephalus. This case demonstrates the importance of vigilance in the young patient who develops shock in the perioperative period.
Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome due to Mycoplasma pneumoniae Misinterpreted as SARS-CoV-2 Infection
Authors: Metz Carlos , Rixecker Torben , Mang Sebastian , Becker André , Maßmann Alexander , Becker Sören L. , Papan Cihan , Gärtner Barbara , Seiler Frederik , Danziger Guy , Bals Robert , Lepper Philipp M.
Published: June 2021

Background. In 2020, a novel coronavirus caused a global pandemic with a clinical picture termed COVID-19, accounting for numerous cases of ARDS. However, there are still other infectious causes of ARDS that should be considered, especially as the majority of these pathogens are specifically treatable. Case Presentation. We present the case of a 36-year-old gentleman who was admitted to the hospital with flu-like symptoms, after completing a half-marathon one week before admission. As infection with SARS-CoV-2 was suspected based on radiologic imaging, the hypoxemic patient was immediately transferred to the ICU, where he developed ARDS. Empiric antimicrobial chemotherapy was initiated, the patient deteriorated further, therapy was changed, and the patient was transferred to a tertiary care ARDS center. As cold agglutinins were present, the hypothesis of an infection with SARS-CoV-2 was then questioned. Bronchoscopic sampling revealed Mycoplasma (M.) pneumoniae. When antimicrobial chemotherapy was adjusted, the patient recovered quickly. Conclusion. Usually, M. pneumoniae causes mild disease. When antimicrobial chemotherapy was adjusted, the patient recovered quickly. The case underlines the importance to adhere to established treatment guidelines, scrutinize treatment modalities, and not to forget other potential causes of severe pneumonia or ARDS.
On
α
-Multiplier on Almost Distributive Lattices
Authors: Wang Ying , Mahboob Abid , Khan Abdul Rauf , Ullah Zafar , Karim Zahid , Karim Mamoona
Published: June 2021

In this paper, we initiate the concept of

α

-multiplier on almost distributive lattices. We prove some useful results by using the notion of

α

-multiplier and generalize the idea of multiplier on almost distributive lattices.
Orbital Swelling and Ptosis as an Initial Presentation of Childhood Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Alsalem Ahmed , Almasoudi Bayan , Alzahrani Ghaida , Sindi Lama , Alwan Joud
Published: June 2021

We are reporting the case of a 3-year-old-girl who initially presented with unilateral eyelid swelling and ptosis. A diagnosis of acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) was eventually made based on an orbital incisional biopsy and a bone marrow examination. Historically, orbital involvement had been linked to myeloid leukaemia; however, in lymphoid leukaemia, they are increasingly being implicated and had been reported as the sole presentation of the disease. These findings stress the importance of conducting ophthalmologic assessments in cases diagnosed with ALL in order to prevent delays in proper assessment and treatment. Management options in orbital disease are fortunately not significantly different than well-established treatment protocols.
Method and Mechanism of Dump Overlying the Bedrock with Large Dip Angle in Opencast Mine
Authors: Zhao Hongze , Du Hairui , Tao Zhigang , Lin Zechen
Published: June 2021

Dump in the steep area of the open‐pit mine is essential for safe production. The bedrock with the bumpy‐surface blasting method effectively improves the stabilization of the dumpsite. The effect of the ratio and dispersion degree on the deformation and failure of the dumping bench at the largely inclined area was analyzed. Based on the limit equilibrium method, the equation about the stability factor and the blasted region ratio was deduced. Virtual experiments were performed to address how the ratio and dispersion degree affect deformation and failure. The results showed that the stability factor is a quadratic function of the ratio of the blasted area. The increase in the ratio results in a drastic reduction of displacement, and the direction of displacement significantly changes. The rise in the dispersion degree effectively reduces the displacement and shear strain increment, and the failure mode changes. There is a specific value for the ratio and dispersion degree, making the displacement and shear strain increment little. The research on bumpy surface blasting in this paper provides the theoretical foundation for the dump construction at the site with the large dip angle.
Influence of Cooking Methods on Antioxidant Activities of Selected Leafy Vegetables Gymnema lactiferum, Wattakaka volubilis, and Argyreia populifolia in Sri Lanka
Authors: Deyalage Sathsara T. , Wickramasinghe Indira , Amarasinghe Nimesha , Thilakarathna Gayan
Published: June 2021

Green leafy vegetables (GLVs) are abundant in bioactive compounds and constitute a crucial part of a balanced diet. Sri Lankan green leafy vegetables which are edible and available for consumption have not been thoroughly investigated, whilst their consumption can deflate the risk of arising several degenerative diseases, such as cancer and cardiovascular diseases. The present study was aimed at evaluating the antioxidant capacities of the leafy vegetables, Gymnema lactiferum (Kurignan), Wattakaka volubilis (Aguna), and Argyreia populifolia (Girithilla), with different thermal treatments (70°C, 120°C, and 170°C) which are used in domestic cooking processes. Heat treatments significantly affect the antioxidant capacity and polyphenolic content of most vegetables analyzed, either increasing or decreasing the concentration of these compounds. In the presence of thermal treatments, Gymnema lactiferum (14.52-20.28 mg GAE/g DW) and Wattakaka volubilis (19.75-27.13 mg GAE/g DW) showed a significantly higher (

p
<
0.05

) total phenolic content. The temperature treatment did not alter the ABTS radical scavenging activity in Gymnema lactiferum. In contrast, an increment of ferric reducing antioxidant power (41.26-54.85 mg TE/g DW) and DPPH radical scavenging activity (0.11-0.26 mg TE/g DW) was observed. Wattakaka volubilis treated at 170°C appeared to have a significantly higher amount (

104.93
±
1.41
 
mg

TE/g DW) of ferric reducing antioxidant power compared to its raw form. All cooking processes with their corresponding thermal treatments caused a significantly lower (

p
<
0

) amount of antioxidant capacity in Argyreia populifolia.
Quantitative Evaluation for Reinforcement Effect of Auxiliary Steel Beams Based on Running Safety and Dynamic Response
Authors: Kai Gong , Linya Liu , Jun Xiang , Haiming Yang , Cuiying Yu
Published: June 2021

Aiming at the existing heavy‐haul railway, bridges hardly meet the transportation requirements. Based on the spatial vibration calculation model of the freight train–track–bridge (FTTB) system, the FTTB spatial vibration model under the condition of auxiliary steel beam reinforcement is established. Besides, according to the random analysis method of train derailment energy, coming up with an evaluation method of auxiliary steel beam reinforcement is based on safety and dynamic response, which is used to discuss the train safety and the change law of FTTB system vibration response. The results show that the derailment resistance of the FTTB system is increased by 22.6% after the auxiliary steel beam is reinforced. Compared with the previous speed (115.56 km/h), the speed is 132.73 km/h after the auxiliary steel beam reinforcement; at the same time, the allowable limit speed increases from 92.49 km/h to 106.18 km/h. In addition, the reinforcement of the auxiliary steel beam can not only effectively reduce the lateral vibration response of the FTTB system under the action of empty wagon but also effectively decline the vertical vibration response of the FTTB system under the action of the loaded wagon, which can meet the stability requirement for running at the speed of 90 km/h. In summary, the reinforcement of auxiliary steel beams can improve the running safety of trains, reduce the vibration response of the FTTB system, and meet the requirements of operation stability.
Effect of Botanical Extracts on Late Blight (Phytopthora infestans) and Productivity of Tomato (Solanum esculentum)
Authors: Choga T. , Ngadze E. , Rugare J. T. , Mabasa S. , Makaza W. , Gwatidzo V. O. , Chikuta S. , Karubanga G.
Published: June 2021

Late blight is caused by Phytopthora infestans (Mont.) de Bary which establishes quickly in Solanum esculentum L. (tomato); as a result, it makes the pathogen one of the most devastating plant diseases across the world. The control of late blight is difficult because P. infestans has advanced and complex enzymes and effecter molecules coded by avirulence genes. As such, a study was carried out at the University of Zimbabwe, Department of Plant Production Sciences and Technologies, between August 2018 and May 2019 to evaluate the efficacy of Moringa oleifera Lour. (moringa), Eucalyptus nigra R.T. Baker (gumtree), and Lantana camara L. (sensu lato) (lantana) extracts as biofungicides on late blight development on S. esculentum. The effect of acetone, ethyl acetate, and water extracts of M. oleifera, E. nigra, and L. camara on percent inhibition and radial growth were evaluated in the laboratory. In addition, the efficacy of different extract concentrations of M. oleifera, E. nigra, and L. camara L. on defence enzymes, disease incidence, disease severity, and yield parameters of S. esculentum were assessed in the in vivo experiment. Increasing concentration of the botanical extracts significantly (

p
≤
0.05

) reduced radial growth and increased percent inhibition of P. infestans. In addition, increasing botanical extract concentration significantly (

p
≤
0.05

) increased peroxidase (PОD), phenylalanine ammonia lyse (PAL), and polyphenol oxidase (PPO) activity. Disease incidence and severity were significantly (

p
≤
0.05

) reduced as the concentration of the botanical extracts increased. Similarly, marketable and total yield significantly (

p
≤
0.05

) increased with increase in the botanical extract concentration. Gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GCMS) revealed the presence of furfural, 5-methyl-4- (trifluoromethyl) pyrido, dodecanamide, cyclopentasiloxane, and decamethyl. From the research, it can be concluded that M. oleifera ethyl acetate, E. nigra ethyl acetate, and L. camara water extracts contain antifungal compounds and can be used as biofungicides in late blight management.
Analysis of Physical Expansion Training Based on Edge Computing and Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Liu Zhongle
Published: June 2021

The effective development of physical expansion training benefits from the rapid development of computer technology, especially the integration of Edge Computing (EC) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology. Physical expansion training is mainly based on the collective form, and how to improve the quality of training to achieve results has become the content of everyone’s attention. As a representative technology in the field of AI, deep learning and EC evolving from traditional cloud computing technology are all well applied to physical expansion training. Traditional EC methods have problems such as high computing cost and long computing time. In this paper, deep learning technology is introduced to optimize EC methods. The EC cycle is set through the Internet of Things (IoT) topology to obtain the data upload speed. The CNN (Convolutional Neural Network) model introduces deep reinforcement learning technology, implements convolution calculations, and completes the resource allocation of EC for each trainer’s wearable sensor device, which realizes the optimization of EC based on deep reinforcement learning. The experiment results show that the proposed method can effectively control the server’s occupancy time, the energy cost of the edge server, and the computing cost. The proposed method in this paper can also improve the resource allocation ability of EC, ensure the uniform speed of the computing process, and improve the efficiency of EC.
Volleyball Action Extraction and Dynamic Recognition Based on Gait Tactile Sensor
Authors: Qi Limin
Published: June 2021

At present, the industry research of volleyball technology is relatively in‐depth, and the analysis of the muscle strength characteristics and coordination of the jumping ball is less, which is not conducive to the control of technical movements. This study used a wireless portable surface EMG tester (16 lines) to analyze the EMG of the main muscle groups in athletes’ volleyball and conducted a video synchronization test method to find the position of the human body. Therefore, a background‐based frame difference method is proposed to detect the position and obtain the precise position of the human body. Experiments show that the background‐based three‐frame difference method effectively eliminates the “hole” effect of the original three‐frame difference method and provides an accurate and complete framework for identifying the human body. Adjust the recognition frame according to the proportion of the human body in the image, and use the predefined parameters of the severe frame to perform forward/volleyball background segmentation. The novelty of this document lies in the completion of the complete human body placement of the above three tasks, precapture/background segmentation, and an improved human body position estimation algorithm to extract the human body pose from the video. First, locate the human body in each frame of the video, and then, perform the process of estimating the position of the graphic model based on the color and texture of the unit. After recognizing the gesture of each image in the video, the recognition result will be displayed. Experiments show that after detecting the position of the human body, the predefined frame setting process of the tomb is carried out in two steps, which improves the automation of the human body image detection algorithm, effectively extracts the human motion video, and increases the motion capture rate by more than 30%, to provide a useful reference for the improvement of college volleyball players’ movement skills and training competitions.
Post-COVID-19 Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo
Authors: Maslovara Siniša , Košec Andro
Published: June 2021

Background. COVID-19 is a disease caused by a new strain of coronavirus (SARS-COVID-19). The WHO first learned about this new virus on December 31, 2019, following a report on a group of cases of “viral pneumonia” in Wuhan, People’s Republic of China, and declared a pandemic in March 2020. The disease was an almost complete unknown at the outset, but knowledge of its pathophysiology, clinical picture, and treatment options grew and developed rapidly. Objective. Dizziness is a very common symptom that patients report in routine clinical practice and one of the significant clinical manifestations of COVID-19. This short report investigated a possible connection between COVID-19 and benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV). Methods. We present two cases of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), which developed within two weeks of SARS-COVID-19 infection, manifesting with mild disease severity in early November 2020. Results. In both cases, the disease manifested by severe, short-lived attacks of vertigo, objective-circular type, with accompanying nausea and vomiting. The symptoms occurred when lying in bed and turning to the right and assuming an upright position. The diagnosis of posterior semicircular canal BPPV (PC-BPPV) was made based on a subjectively and objectively positive right-sided Dix–Hallpike test. Conclusions. The pathophysiology of post-COVID BPPV is probably similar to that of other viral infections, with some of its specificities such as inducing hypercoagulation and microthrombus formation, which can cause significant circulatory disorders possibly affecting its pathogenesis.
Novel Guarded Needle Trans-Scleral Biopsy for Uveal Melanoma: A Pilot Study
Authors: Shahlaee Abtin , Abdelaziz Musa , Seider Michael I.
Published: June 2021

Introduction: Trans-scleral biopsy of uveal melanoma (UM) poses an inherent risk of tumor and possibly retinal perforation. We describe a novel technique for trans-scleral biopsy of UM and evaluate its safety and efficacy in an initial cohort of patients. Methods: A retrospective, consecutive observational case series was conducted from October 14, 2019, to April 15, 2020, at Kaiser Permanente, San Francisco, CA among patients with UM of the ciliary body or anterior choroid undergoing trans-scleral fine-needle aspiration biopsy using a novel guarded needle technique. Results: A total of 6 patients were included in the study, with a mean age of 64.3 (range 35–77) years (5 women 83%). Mean (±SD) tumor thickness and maximal basal diameter were 6.4 (±2.66) and 11.9 (±2.13) mm, respectively. Five out of 6 patients achieved a successful biopsy with reliable gene expression profiling (GEP) results. The only failure to obtain specimen occurred in the first attempted patient and, after a minor technique modification, all subsequent biopsies were successful. No intraoperative or short-term postoperative complications were observed in any patient. Conclusion: This novel trans-scleral biopsy technique appears to be safe and effective when obtaining UM tissue for GEP. This method may provide a more controlled biopsy depth thereby minimizing the risk of tumor perforation and its associated complications while still obtaining adequate biopsy yield.
Metabolic Dynamics in the Prefrontal Cortex during a Working Memory Task in Young Adult Smokers
Authors: Bagga Deepika , Cecchetto Cinzia , Aigner Christoph Stefan , Tiraspolski Illya , Koschutnig Karl , Fischmeister Florian P.S. , Schöpf Veronika
Published: June 2021

Introduction: Cigarette smoking is known to modulate brain metabolism and brain function. How the dynamics of these metabolic alterations influence the active performance of higher order cognitive tasks in smokers, compared to non-smokers, is still unclear. The present exploratory study sought to examine the impact of smoking on the “complete” metabolic profile while the participants performed a working memory (N-back) task. Methods: The study sample consisted of 40 young male healthy participants (smokers [n = 20] and non-smokers [n = 20]). Functional magnetic resonance spectroscopy data were acquired using a 3 T whole-body MR system. Data analysis was performed using Java-based Magnetic Resonance User Interface software, and metabolite ratios with respect to creatine (Cr) were calculated. Results: On a behavioural level, smokers showed worse performance (measured by d’) than non-smokers. However, we observed significant differences in the metabolite concentrations in smokers compared to non-smokers, which also changed over the course of the N-back task. A significant effect of the group was observed with smokers showing lower glutamate/Cr (Glx/Cr) and choline/Cr (Cho/Cr) ratios than non-smokers. Further, N-acetyl aspartate (NAA/Cr) and Cho/Cr ratios were significantly different during the rest and the task conditions. In addition, our results demonstrated the metabolite interactions (NAA and Cho, Glx and myo-inositol [mI], and Cho and mI). Conclusion: Further studies are necessary to shed more light on the association between smoking behaviours and metabolic alterations. However, our preliminary findings would assist in this future research to have a complete understanding of the metabolite interactions not only in smoking but also in addiction research.
A Preliminary Study of Deep-Learning Algorithm for Analyzing Multiplex Immunofluorescence Biomarkers in Body Fluid Cytology Specimens
Authors: Yu Weibo , Rao Elizabeth , Chin Curtis D. , Aguilar-Jakthong Josephine S. , Li Yunfeng , Chow Christine , Wang Shu Yu (Grace) , Rao Jianyu
Published: June 2021

Introduction: Multiplex biomarker analysis of cytological body fluid specimens is often used to assist cytologists in distiguishing metastatic cancer cells from reactive mesothelial cells. However, evaluating biomarker expression visually may be challenging, especially when the cells of interest are scant. Deep-learning algorithms (DLAs) may be able to assist cytologists in analyzing multiple biomarker expression at the single cell level in the multiplex fluorescence imaging (MFI) setting. This preliminary study was performed to test the feasibility of using DLAs to identify immunofluorescence-stained metastatic adenocarcinoma cells in body fluid cytology samples. Methods: A DLA was developed to analyze MFI-stained cells in body fluid cytological samples. A total of 41 pleural fluid samples, comprising of 20 positives and 21 negatives, were retrospectively collected. Multiplex immunofluorescence labeling for MOC31, BerEP4, and calretinin, were performed on cell block sections, and results were analyzed by manual analysis (manual MFI) and DLA analysis (MFI-DLA) independently. Results: All cases with positive original cytological diagnoses showed positive results either by manual MFI or MFI-DLA, but 2 of the 14 (14.3%) original cytologically negative cases had rare cells with positive MOC31 and/or BerEP4 staining in addition to calretinin. Manual MFI analysis and MFI-DLA showed 100% concordance. Conclusion: MFI combined with DLA provides a potential tool to assist in cytological diagnosis of metastatic malignancy in body fluid samples. Larger studies are warranted to test the clinical validity of the approach.
Pygmy Marmoset Exudate Feeding Stimulates Exudate Production
Authors: Jackson Colin P. , Reichard Ulrich H.
Published: June 2021

Exudates are an important renewable resource for many primates. Exudate renewability is based on observations of primates repeatedly depleting exudate sites and measures of exudate trees’ daily replenishment rates, but the role of the consumer in the renewal process is unclear. Trees’ exudate production may be independent of the consumer, remaining unchanged regardless of depletion frequency, but since trees produce exudates as a physiological response to fungal infection, they may produce more exudates with more frequent depletion. To test these competing hypotheses, we employed a within-subjects experimental design in which we exposed pygmy marmosets’ exudate holes to two treatment conditions: collecting exudates after 5 h and collecting exudates every hour for five consecutive hours. To compare production outputs between treatments, we used generalised linear mixed modelling in which log-transformed production data were a function of treatment with exudate holes nested within trees as a random effect. The model indicated that the cumulative production of hourly exudate removal was significantly greater than the amount accumulated after 5 h. Furthermore, the random effect of holes nested within trees had the greatest impact on variation in differences between treatments, but another unknown source also contributed to the observed variation. These results support the hypothesis that consumers partly drive exudate production, and although it is unknown what other factors, such as fungal load and healing trajectory, may influence variation between treatments, we conclude that pygmy marmosets can stimulate exudate production by consuming exudates.
On the Use and Abuse of Francisco de Vitoria: James Brown Scott and Carl Schmitt
Authors: Smeltzer Joshua
Published: June 2021

This article traces the use and abuse of Francisco de Vitoria in the work of James Brown Scott and Carl Schmitt. With reference to his notebook entries from the period, it argues that Schmitt’s interpretation of Francisco de Vitoria and the Respublica Christiana in Der Nomos der Erde was a polemical response to the work of James Brown Scott, meant to weaponise the legacy of Vitoria and thereby undercut the basis for liberal internationalist theories of just war and the formal equality of states. In doing so, the present study provides a historicist account of Schmitt’s own attempt to construct a history of the law of nations in the aftermath of World War II.
Bionomina, a forum for biological terminology and nomenclature: the first 10 years

Authors: DUBOIS ALAIN , OHLER ANNEMARIE
Published: June 2021

The first issue of the journal Bionomina was published by Magnolia Press (Auckland, New Zealand) on 24 December 2010. The journal originated from an evolution and expansion of the section ‘Theory and methodology’ introduced in 2006 in the journal Zootaxa, itself founded in 2001 (Zhang 2007). The purpose of this new journal was wider than that of this section, being presented as “to open a space of free discussion among colleagues involved in or interested in all aspects of the terminology of comparative and evolutionary biology, including, but not limited to, taxonomy and nomenclature of taxa” (Dubois 2010: 8).
Herpetological higher taxa nomina. 6. Gymnophiona Rafinesque, 1814

Authors: DUBOIS ALAIN , FRÉTEY THIERRY
Published: June 2021

A taxon, traditionally referred to the rank order, encompassing all recent taxa of caecilians and their close fossil relatives, is highly supported as holophyletic in all recent cladistic analyses of Amphibia. Under the Duplostensional Nomenclatural System, among 12 nomina available in the literature, only one, Gymnophiona Rafinesque, 1814, qualifies as a sozodiaphonym and should be used for this amphibian taxon. We show here that the authorship of this nomen, as well as of 32 other nomina published in 1814, is ‘Rafinesque’, not ‘Rafinesque-Schmaltz’.            The nomen Apoda Oppel, 1811, that has often been used for this taxon, proves to be a distagmonym and a junior homonym of Apodes Linnaeus, 1758 and five other distagmonyms, and as such it is invalid under DONS.            In total, we identified 34 distinct class-series nomina derived from the stems ἄπους (apous) or Apus in 13 distinct zoological groups, only two of which are valid under DONS Criteria: Apodiformia Wetmore, 1947, for the suborder of Aves currently known as Apodi Wetmore, 1947, and Apodomorpha Sibley, Ahlquist & Monroe, 1988 for the order of Aves currently known as Apodiformes Peters, 1940.                Several other nomenclatural findings were made in the course of this study: [1] in the Teleostei, the nomina "Eupercaria" and "Syngnatharia", like all the other new nomina proposed in the paper by Betancur-R. et al. (2017) are anoplonyms and cannot be used as valid; [2] in the Mammalia, the nomina Cetus and Cetacea should be credited to Brisson (1759); [3] in the Holothuroidea, the nomen Apoda Claus, 1868, currently considered valid under the apograph Apodida, is invalid and should be replaced by the nomen Paractinopoda Ludwig, 1891; [4] in the Isopoda, the subordinal nomen Cymothoida Wägele, 1989 should be replaced by its senior synonym Darwinida Lakshminarayana & Rama Rao, 1977.
Herpetological higher taxa nomina. 7. Lissamphibia Gadow, 1898

Authors: DUBOIS ALAIN , FRÉTEY THIERRY
Published: June 2021

A taxon encompassing all recent taxa of amphibians and their close fossil relatives is highly supported as holophyletic in all recent phylogenetic analyses of amphibians. Under the Duplostensional Nomenclatural System, among twenty nomina available for this taxon, only one, Lissamphibia Gadow, 1898, qualifies as a sozodiaphonym and appears to be the one that should be used for this taxon, traditionally referred to the rank order. However, because of the current uncertainties in the phylogenetic relationships among basal amphibians, the allocation of this nomen to this taxon is still questionable. If it turned out to apply in fact to another, more comprehensive, taxon, its stabilisation under its current acceptation should be realised through an act of archoidy.
Nomenclatural comments on and corrections of nomina of some non-marine fossil gastropods

Authors: KADOLSKY DIETRICH
Published: June 2021

Nomenclatural issues pertaining to selected non-marine gastropods of Cretaceous and Tertiary age are discussed and resolved as follows. [1] Viviparus hammeri (Defrance, 1825) is reinstated; Helicites viviparoides Schlotheim, 1820 is a nomen nudum, made available as Paludina viviparoides Bronn, 1848, a new objective synonym. [2] Viviparus frauenfeldi Le Renard, 1994 is a new objective synonym of Viviparus oulchyensis Wenz, 1919. [3] Lorus is proposed as a nomen novum for Liris Conrad, 1871 [nec Fabricius, 1804]. [3] Wesselinghia is proposed as a nomen novum for Longosoma Wesselingh & Kadolsky, 2006 [nec Hartman, 1944]. [4] Hydrobia incerta (Deshayes, 1862) is reinstated; Hydrobia antoni Le Renard, 1994 is a new objective synonym of this nomen. [5] The species Paludina frauenfeldi Hoernes, 1856 is designated as type species of Sarmata B. Dybowski & Grochmalicki, 1920. [6] The misidentified type species of Annulifer Cossmann, 1921, so far known as ‘Paludina protracta sensu Cossmann 1921, non Eichwald, 1850’, is fixed under Article 70.3 of the Code as understood by Cossmann (1921), and renamed Annulifer annulifer new species. [7] Pomatias turgidulus (Sandberger, 1872) is reinstated; P. turonicus Wenz, 1923 and Cyclostoma squamosum Peyrot, 1932 are its new objective synonyms. [8] Valvata inflata Sandberger, 1875 is reinstated; V. gaudryana Wenz, 1928 [nec Mortillet, 1863] is its new objective synonym. [8] Catinella? montana Pierce, new species, originally published as “[Succineidae] montana Pierce, 1992”, is made available by associating the species epithet with a generic nomen. [9] Proalbinaria subantiqua (d’Orbigny, 1850) is reinstated; its senior synonym Pupa antiqua Matheron, 1832 is a primary junior homonym of Pupa muscorum antiqua Eichwald, 1830. [10] The type species of Palaeostoa Andreae, 1884 is Pupa fontenayi Sandberger, 1871 by subsequent designation by Cossmann (1905), which has precedence over the designation of Clausilia crenata Sandberger, 1871 by Wenz (1923). [11] Palaeostoa elongata (Melleville, 1843), whose original combination was Pupa elongata, is a primary junior homonym of Pupa elongata Bouillet, 1836, an unused name for an unidentified nominal species; pending more information on the taxon at stake, maintenance of the existing usage is recommended. [12] Scalaxis columnella (Deshayes, 1863) is reinstated, with Scalaxis sinister Wenz, 1923 as its new synonym. [13] Eurystrophe olla (Serres, 1844) is reinstated, with Helix janthinoides Noulet, 1868 [nec Helix janthinoides Serres, 1829, a nomen nudum] as its new synonym.
Description of three new species of Psilotreta (Trichoptera: Odontoceridae) from Japan
Authors: KAWASE NAOKI
Published: June 2021

Three new species of the caddisfly genus Psilotreta (Trichoptera: Odontoceridae) from Japan are described: P. voluta sp. nov., P. moritai sp. nov., and P. flavida sp. nov. These three species are easily distinguishable by the male genitalia from previously known Japanese species, P. japonica (Banks 1906) and P. kisoensis Iwata 1928. The three new species are similar to P. vertebrata Yuan et al. 2008, P. cuboides Yuan et al. 2008, and P. excavata Yuan et al. 2008 from the Chinese mainland, and P. clyssan Malicky 2014 from Taiwan, in the shapes of the lateral processes and intermediate appendages of segment X of the male genitalia, but can be distinguished from these species and each other. All Japanese species of Psilotreta listed above belong to the P. chinensis Species Group.
Leptagrion itabaiana sp. nov. (Odonata: Coenagrionidae) from Serra de Itabaiana National Park, Sergipe state, Northeastern Brazil
Authors: VILELA DIOGO SILVA , LENCIONI FREDERICO A.A. , SANTOS JEAN CARLOS
Published: June 2021

Leptagrion itabaiana sp. nov. (Brazil, Sergipe, Areia Branca, Serra de Itabaiana National Park, (10.7517 S, 37.3415 W, 179 m asl), 3.ii.2021, J.C. Santos leg.) is described, diagnosed, illustrated and compared with morphologically close congeners based on male specimens. The new species can be separated from other Leptagrion species mainly by cercus morphology.
A new species of the genus Cylindera (Coleoptera: Cicindelidae) from southern Bolivia with imitating behaviour to co-occurring ants
Authors: ŠAFRÁNEK ONDŘEJ , AMAYA MARCELO
Published: June 2021

Cylindera (Cylindera) julietae sp. nov. (Cicindelidae: Cicindelini) is described as new for science from southern Bolivia. The new species is compared to a similar species Cylindera (Cylindera) confluentesignata (W. Horn, 1915). Colour photographs of habitus, habitat and diagnostic characters of the two similar species are presented. The behaviour of adults of the new species, imitating that of co-occurring ants, is discussed.
Polycarbonate Colours Optimization Using Box Behnken Design (BBD)
Authors: Saeed Usman
Published: June 2021

The principal objective of incorporating pigments in the polymer is to introduce color either for aesthetic reasons or for the functional requirements. The enhancement of extrusion process parameters is necessary for the proper dispersion of pigment in the polymer. In the study presented
three influential processing parameters during extrusion of polymer compound are speed, temperature and feed rate. The experimental design software with Box Behnken (BBD) methodology is being utilized for the optimization. The optimized model and experimental data exceeds the analytical examination
making the formulation of model crucial. Also, it was found that the extrusion parameters have strong impact on color characteristics DL, Da and Db which is determined through the analysis of variance (ANOVA). Moreover, specific mechanical energy was calculated for the experimental
runs and it was revealed that the specific energy decreases with increase in feed rate.
Observed Bulk Hook Echo Drop Size Distribution Evolution in Supercell Tornadogenesis and Tornadogenesis Failure
Authors: Tuftedal Kristofer S. , French Michael M. , Kingfield Darrel M. , Snyder Jeffrey C.
Published: June 2021

The time preceding supercell tornadogenesis and tornadogenesis “failure” has been studied extensively to identify differing attributes related to tornado production or lack thereof. Studies from the Verification of the Origins of Rotation in Tornadoes Experiment (VORTEX) found that air in the rear-flank downdraft (RFD) regions of non- and weakly tornadic supercells had different near-surface thermodynamic characteristics than that in strongly tornadic supercells. Subsequently, it was proposed that microphysical processes are likely to have an impact on the resulting thermodynamics of the near-surface RFD region. One way to view proxies to microphysical features, namely drop size distributions (DSDs), is through use of polarimetric radar data. Studies from the second VORTEX used data from dual-polarization radars to provide evidence of different DSDs in the hook echoes of tornadic and non-tornadic supercells. However, radar-based studies during these projects were limited to a small number of cases preventing result generalizations. This study compiles 68 tornadic and 62 non-tornadic supercells using Weather Surveillance Radar–1988 Doppler (WSR-88D) data to analyze changes in polarimetric radar variables leading up to, and at, tornadogenesis and tornadogenesis failure. Case types generally did not show notable hook echo differences in variables between sets, but did show spatial hook echo quadrant DSD differences. Consistent with past studies, differential radar reflectivity factor (ZDR) generally decreased leading up to tornadogenesis and tornadogenesis failure; in both sets, estimated total number concentration increased during the same times. Relationships between DSDs and the near-storm environment, and implications of results for nowcasting tornadogenesis, also are discussed.
Cervicofacial Actinomycosis in the Pediatric Population: Presentation and Management
Authors: Gandhi Karan , van der Woerd Benjamin D. , Graham M. Elise , Barton Michelle , Strychowsky Julie E.
Published: June 2021

Background:

Infection caused by Actinomyces species is a rare cause of head and neck infection in children. This chronic cervicofacial infection can present with localized swelling, abscess formation, sinus drainage and can be complicated by osteomyelitis.

Methods:

Presented are 2 pediatric cases of secondary actinomycosis in the context of congenital lesions: 1 patient with a previously excised preauricular sinus and another with a persistent sublingual mass. A comprehensive literature search was conducted for reported cases of pediatric actinomycosis in the cervicofacial region.

Results:

Both cases presented were successfully treated with a combination of complete surgical excision of the lesions and prolonged antibiotic therapy. Thirty-four pediatric cases of cervicofacial actinomycosis are reviewed, 2 presented herein, and 32 from the published literature. There was equal gender distribution and the median age was 7.5 years. The most common site for infection was the submandibular area. Four (12%) of cases arose in pre-existing congenital lesions. Most patients were treated with penicillin-based antibiotics for a median duration of 6 months following surgical excision or debridement.

Conclusions:

Actinomycosis is a rare infection of the cervicofacial region; secondary infections arising from congenital lesions of the head and neck are even more rare. A previously excised pre-auricular sinus and a sublingual dermoid cyst are not previously reported sites of infection. Actinomycosis should be suspected in chronically draining sinuses of the head and neck region and confirmed through anaerobic culture. Osteomyelitis is a potential complication and magnetic resonance (MR) imaging is warranted. Long-term antibiotic therapy with a penicillin-based antibiotic and surgical excision should be considered.
Children’s Relative Living Proximity and Intergenerational Support to Older Parents in China
Authors: Bao Luoman
Published: June 2021

Although research has recognized the influence of geographic proximity on intergenerational support in Chinese families, the effect of siblings’ geographic proximity remains unexplored. Guided by the within-family differences approach, this study uses data from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study to examine how the relativity of children’s and their siblings’ geographic proximity is associated with children’s support to older parents and how the association differs by child gender. Results show that living relatively farther among siblings is associated with providing less economic support and have less contact with parents, but this negative effect is less prominent on sons’ economic support and daughters’ contact with parents. Having siblings living at the same distance also affects children’s support behaviors. The findings reveal that support responsibilities could be differentially distributed by children’s relative living proximity among siblings and indicate the importance of considering sibling influences when studying intergenerational support in Chinese families.