bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Keyhole Limpet Hemocyanin-Conjugated Peptides from Hepatitis C Virus Glycoproteins Elicit Neutralizing Antibodies in BALB/c Mice
Authors: Deng Kai , Xu Zhanxue , Chen Mingxiao , Liu Xiaoxiang
Published: January 2021

Currently, no vaccine to prevent hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is available. A major challenge in developing an HCV vaccine is the high diversity of HCV sequences. The purpose of immunization with viral glycoproteins is to induce a potent and long-lasting cellular and humoral immune response. However, this strategy only achieves limited protection, and antigen selection plays a crucial role in vaccine design. In this study, we investigated the humoral immune responses induced by intraperitoneal injection of keyhole limpet hemocyanin conjugated with 4 highly conserved peptides, including amino acids [aa]317-325 from E1 and aa418-429, aa502-518, and aa685-693 from E2, or 3 peptides from hypervariable region 1 (HVR1) of E2, including the N terminus of HVR1 (N-HVR1, aa384-396), C terminus of HVR1 (C-HVR1, aa397-410), and HVR1 in BALB/c mice. The neutralizing activity against HCV genotypes 1-6 was assessed using the cell culture HCV (HCVcc) system. The results showed that the 4 conserved peptides efficiently induced antibodies with potent neutralizing activity against 3 or 4 genotypes. Antibodies induced by aa685-693 conferred potent protection (>50%) against genotypes 2, 4, and 5. Peptide N-HVR1 elicited antibodies with the most potent neutralization activities against 3 HCV genotypes: TNcc(1a), S52(3a), and ED43(4a). These findings suggested that peptides within HCV glycoproteins could serve as potent immunogens for vaccine design and development.
Chinese Traditional Medicine NiuBeiXiaoHe (NBXH) Extracts Have the Function of Antituberculosis and Immune Recovery in BALB/c Mice
Authors: Liang Yan , Gong Wenping , Wang Xiaomei , Zhang Junxian , Ling Yanbo , Song Jinying , Wang Lan , Liu Xiao , Wang Jie , Yang Yourong , Chen Shibing , Liu Jun , Yang Chunwei , Luo Huafeng , Wu Xueqiong
Published: January 2021

Background. The Traditional Chinese Medicine NiuBeiXiaoHe (NBXH) is a valid antituberculosis (TB) prescription from the experience of clinical practice. However, the mechanism of NBXH extracts’ immunotherapy has been poorly understood. Herein, the immunotherapeutic efficacy and the differentially expressed (DE) genes of NBXH extracts were evaluated and identified in BALB/c mice. Methods. The total RNA was extracted from peripheral blood mononuclear cells, and the DE genes were identified by gene chip. The enrichment and signaling pathway analyses were performed using Gene Ontology (GO) and KEGG database. Results. It was shown that the treatment of NBXH extracts (high dose) significantly reduced mycobacteria loads and histopathological lesions in mice infected by Mycobacterium tuberculosis and resulted in 3,454 DE upregulated genes and 3,594 downregulated DE genes. Furthermore, NBXH extracts killed mycobacteria by inhibiting the supply of necessary ingredients for their growth and proliferation. They restored the disordered immune microenvironments by up- or downregulating immune and inflammation-related pathways. Conclusions. Taken together, NBXH extracts not only efficiently decreased the mycobacteria loads but also balanced the immune disorders in mice. These new findings provide a fresh perspective for elucidating the immunotherapeutic mechanism of NBXH extracts and pointed out the direction for improving the treatment efficacy of NBXH extracts.
Adaptive Droop Control of a Multibus DC Microgrid Based on Consensus Algorithm
Authors: Li Mingche , Fan Jiangwei , Qiao Lihui
Published: January 2021

The main control objective of a DC microgrid with a multibus structure is to stabilize the bus voltage and maintain the power balance of the whole system. An adaptive droop control strategy for multibus DC microgrid based on consensus algorithm is proposed. It is based on platform multiagent system, which is realized by network protocol. Under the condition of a weak communication network, the bus at all levels can realize regional power autonomy through packet consensus protocol. A hybrid simulation platform composed of Jade, MacSimJX, and Simulink is built to verify the effectiveness of the control strategy.
Univariate and Multivariate Analyses of Influencing Factors on Methane Adsorption Capacity of Semianthracite
Authors: Hou Shihui , Wang Xiaoming , Yuan Yudong , Pan Sidong , Dang Zheng , Luo Chunyong
Published: January 2021

Methane adsorption isotherm experiments on semianthracite (2.00-2.33% [Formula: see text]) collected from the Xin’an coal mine, Henan Province, China, were conducted to investigate the effects of pore structure, coal quality, coal maceral, and coal rank on methane adsorption capacity with applications of univariate and multivariate analyses. Methane adsorption capacity varies significantly from 12.03 to 28.40 cm3/g. In univariate analysis, methane adsorption capacity has a strong positive correlation with pore specific surface area, weak positive correlations with pore volume and ash content, and weak negative correlations with moisture content and inertinite content. No correlation is observed between methane adsorption capacity and coal rank. In multivariate analysis, the mathematical model of methane adsorption capacity affected by the combined individual variables is established based on quantification theory I. There are similarities and differences between the two analyses. The similarities are that pore specific surface area has the greatest contribution to methane adsorption capacity, while coal rank has the least contribution. The differences are reflected in two aspects. Firstly, the other influencing factors contribute differently to methane adsorption capacity. Secondly, the positive or negative correlations of some influencing factors present the opposite. The mathematic model synthetically covers the combined effects of the influencing factors, which is more representative in evaluating methane adsorption capacity.
Pectin from Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L.) Has Potential as a Drug Release Modifier in Matrix Tablets
Authors: Boakye-Gyasi Mariam El , Owusu Frederick William Akuffo , Entsie Philomena , Agbenorhevi Jacob Kwaku , Banful Ben Kwaku Branoh , Bayor Marcel Tunkumgnen
Published: January 2021

Natural polymers have become attractive to pharmaceutical researchers and manufacturers as excipients because of the advantages they possess relative to their semisynthetic and synthetic counterparts. Although pectin from some natural sources has been investigated for use in the pharmaceutical industry as excipients, pectin from okra, which is readily available and used as food in many parts of the world, has not been extensively investigated as a potential control-releasing agent in tablets. This study thus seeks to determine the drug release modifying properties of okra pectin from 6 different genotypes of okra cultivated and available in Ghana. Pectin was extracted from different genotypes of okra, physicochemical properties were characterized, and control release matrix tablets of metformin (F1–F6) were formulated using the wet granulation method with the okra pectin as the drug release modifier, respectively. The drug content, in vitro drug release, and mathematical kinetic modeling of drug release from the matrix tablets were studied. Drug release profiles of formulated matrix tablets were compared to an existing (innovator) brand of metformin sustained-release tablet on the market using the similarity and difference factors, respectively. The extracted pectin had percentage yields ranging from 6 to 20% w/w with swelling indexes and water-holding capacities between 300–500% and 9-10 mL/g, respectively, and pH within 6.20–6.90. All the formulated batches passed the drug content test (90–105%) and produced the optimal release of metformin (>80%) after 24 hours. Different batches of formulated tablets exhibited different mechanisms of drug release with batches F1, F2, F5, and F6 being similar (ƒ2 values being >50 and ƒ1 values <15) to the innovator brand. Pectin from the 6 different genotypes of okra studied has the potential for use as drug release modifiers in pharmaceutical manufacturing of control release matrix tablets and production of more affordable medicines.
Acute Gastrointestinal Bleed from a Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumour Impersonating an Arteriovenous Malformation of the Jejunum
Authors: Basnayake Oshan , Jayarajah Umesh , Fernandopulle Nilesh , Sivaganesh Sivasuriya
Published: January 2021

Gastrointestinal stromal tumours (GIST) are neoplasms which originate from the mesenchymal tissue of the gastrointestinal tract. We report on a GIST presenting with acute gastrointestinal bleeding that mimicked an arteriovenous malformation (AVM) on imaging and at surgery. A 61-year-old female presented with a short history of melaena and severe anaemia. After resuscitation, upper gastrointestinal endoscopy showed a profusely bleeding varix in the proximal jejunum which was treated with glue injection. Contrast-enhanced CT showed a heterogeneous lesion in the proximal jejunum with strong arterial phase enhancement, supplied by a branch of the superior mesenteric artery and drained by a prominent tributary of the superior mesenteric vein, suggestive of an AVM. The mass was resected, and histology revealed a GIST with no evidence of an AVM or angiodysplasia. A GIST may be considered, though imaging suggests a diagnosis of an AVM in patients presenting with acute gastrointestinal bleeds. In such circumstances, surgical resection and pathological assessment will be confirmatory.
[Retracted] Parallel‐Machine Scheduling with DeJong’s Learning Effect, Delivery Times, Rate‐Modifying Activity, and Resource Allocation
Authors: Sun Li , Wu Bin , Ning Lei
Published: January 2021

We investigate parallel‐machine scheduling with past‐sequence‐dependent (p‐s‐d) delivery times, DeJong’s learning effect, rate‐modifying activity, and resource allocation. Each machine has a rate‐modifying activity. We consider two versions of the problem to minimize the sum of the total completion times, the total absolute deviation of job completion times, and the total resource allocation and the sum of the total waiting times, the total absolute deviation of job waiting times, and the total resource allocation, respectively. The problems under our present model can be solved in polynomial time.
QTL Mapping of Traits Associated with Dual Resistance to the African Stem Borer (Busseola fusca) and Spotted Stem Borer (Chilo partellus) in Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor)
Authors: Muturi Phyllis W. , Mgonja Mary , Rubaihayo Patrick , Mwololo James K.
Published: January 2021

Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench) is an important food crop in semi-arid tropics. The crop grain yield ranges from 0.5 t/ha to 0.8 t/ha compared to potential yields of 10 t/ha. The African stem borer Busseola fusca Fuller (Noctuidae) and the spotted stem borer Chilo partellus Swinhoe (Crambidae), are among the most economically important insect pests of sorghum. The two borers can cause 15% - 80% grain yield loss in sorghum. Mapping of QTLs associated with resistance traits to the two stem borers is important towards marker-assisted breeding. The objective of this study was to map QTLs associated with resistance traits to B. fusca and C. partellus in sorghum. 243 F9:10 sorghum RILs derived from ICSV 745 (S) and PB 15520-1 (R) were selected for the study with 4,955 SNP markers. The RILs were evaluated in three sites. Data was collected on leaf feeding, deadheart, exit holes, stem tunnels, leaf toughness, seedling vigour, bloom waxiness, and leaf glossiness. ANOVA for all the traits was done using Genstat statistical software. Insect damage traits and morphological traits were correlated using Pearson’s correlation coefficients. Genetic mapping was done using JoinMap 4 software, while QTL analysis was done using PLABQTL software. A likelihood odds ratio (LOD) score of 3.0 was used to declare linkage. Joint analyses across borer species and sites revealed 4 QTLs controlling deadheart formation; 6 controlling leaf feeding damage; 5 controlling exit holes and stem tunneling damages; 2 controlling bloom waxiness, leaf glossiness, and seedling vigour; 4 conditioning trichome density; and 6 conditioning leaf toughness. Joint analyses for B. fusca and C. partellus further revealed that marker CS132-2 colocalised for leaf toughness and stem tunneling traits on QTLs 1 and 2, respectively; thus, the two traits can be improved using the same linked marker. This study recommended further studies to identify gene(s) underlying the mapped QTLs.
Characteristics of Three Different Chemiluminescence Assays for Testing for SARS-CoV-2 Antibodies
Authors: Weber Myriam C. , Risch Martin , Thiel Sarah L. , Grossmann Kirsten , Nigg Susanne , Wohlwend Nadia , Lung Thomas , Hillmann Dorothea , Ritzler Michael , Ferrara Francesca , Bigler Susanna , Egli Konrad , Bodmer Thomas , Imperiali Mauro , Salimi Yacir , Fleisch Felix , Cusini Alexia , Heer Sonja , Renz Harald , Paprotny Matthias , Kohler Philipp , Vernazza Pietro , Risch Lorenz , Kahlert Christian R.
Published: January 2021

Several tests based on chemiluminescence immunoassay techniques have become available to test for SARS-CoV-2 antibodies. There is currently insufficient data on serology assay performance beyond 35 days after symptoms onset. We aimed to evaluate SARS-CoV-2 antibody tests on three widely used platforms. A chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay (CMIA; Abbott Diagnostics, USA), a luminescence immunoassay (LIA; Diasorin, Italy), and an electrochemiluminescence immunoassay (ECLIA; Roche Diagnostics, Switzerland) were investigated. In a multigroup study, sensitivity was assessed in a group of participants with confirmed SARS-CoV-2 (

n
=
145

), whereas specificity was determined in two groups of participants without evidence of COVID-19 (i.e., healthy blood donors,

n
=
191

, and healthcare workers,

n
=
1002

). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves, multilevel likelihood ratios (LR), and positive (PPV) and negative (NPV) predictive values were characterized. Finally, analytical specificity was characterized in samples with evidence of the Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) (

n
=
9

), cytomegalovirus (CMV) (

n
=
7

), and endemic common-cold coronavirus infections (

n
=
12

) taken prior to the current SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. The diagnostic accuracy was comparable in all three assays (AUC 0.98). Using the manufacturers’ cut-offs, the sensitivities were 90%, 95% confidence interval [84,94] (LIA), 93% [88,96] (CMIA), and 96% [91,98] (ECLIA). The specificities were 99.5% [98.9,99.8] (CMIA), 99.7% [99.3,99.9] (LIA), and 99.9% [99.5,99.98] (ECLIA). The LR at half of the manufacturers’ cut-offs were 60 (CMIA), 82 (LIA), and 575 (ECLIA) for positive and 0.043 (CMIA) and 0.035 (LIA, ECLIA) for negative results. ECLIA had higher PPV at low pretest probabilities than CMIA and LIA. No interference with EBV or CMV infection was observed, whereas endemic coronavirus in some cases provided signals in LIA and/or CMIA. Although the diagnostic accuracy of the three investigated assays is comparable, their performance in low-prevalence settings is different. Introducing gray zones at half of the manufacturers’ cut-offs is suggested, especially for orthogonal testing approaches that use a second assay for confirmation.
Second-Order Conditional Lie-Bäcklund Symmetry and Differential Constraint of Radially Symmetric Diffusion System
Authors: Wang Jianping , Ba Huijing , Liu Yaru , He Longqi , Ji Lina
Published: January 2021

The classifications and reductions of radially symmetric diffusion system are studied due to the conditional Lie-Bäcklund symmetry method. We obtain the invariant condition, which is the so-called determining system and under which the radially symmetric diffusion system admits second-order conditional Lie-Bäcklund symmetries. The governing systems and the admitted second-order conditional Lie-Bäcklund symmetries are identified by solving the nonlinear determining system. Exact solutions of the resulting systems are constructed due to the compatibility of the original system and the admitted differential constraint corresponding to the invariant surface condition. For most of the cases, they are reduced to solving four-dimensional dynamical systems.
In Vivo and In Vitro Toxicity Profiles of Hexane Extract of Alpinia malaccensis Rhizome in Rat and Cell Line Models
Authors: Somarathna T. , Thammitiyagodage M. G. , Ranaweera K. K. D. S. , Premakumara G. A. S. , Akbarsha M. A. , Kadalmani B. , Weerakkody N. S.
Published: January 2021

The objective of the study was to evaluate the potential toxicity of crude n-hexane extract of Alpinia malaccensis rhizome. The in vivo acute oral toxicity was evaluated by administering a single oral dose of the extract at 0, 300, or 2000 mg/kg body weight to female Wistar rats according to modified OECD Test Guideline 423. For the in vitro cytotoxicity study, A549, HepG2, 3T3, and COS-7 cell lines were exposed to different doses of A. malaccensis extract and cell viability was assessed adopting MTT assay followed by AO/EB staining, Hoechst staining, and comet assay with a view to compare the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying the toxicity, if any. It was found that administration of 2000 mg/kg bw dose in in vivo oral acute toxicity study did not produce significant toxicity or mortality. No significant (

p
<
0.05

) differences were observed for body weight and hematological and biochemical parameters compared to control after 14 days of treatment. No changes in behavior, body weight, hematological and biochemical parameters, and aspects of histopathology were observed when compared to the control. Thus, the possible oral lethal dose for A. malaccensis extract is above 2000 mg/kg body weight. The in vitro cytotoxicity analysis showed nontoxicity concentrations of the extract to be 2, 1.4, 30, and 1.4 µg/mL for A549, HepG2, 3T3, and COS-7 cells, respectively, where no apoptotic/necrotic cell death and DNA damage were observed. In conclusion, the extract of rhizome of A. malaccensis did not produce apparent cytotoxicity or acute oral toxicity, confirming the scope to use A. malaccensis as a safe food preservative and a natural therapeutic product after further subacute and chronic toxicity studies.
Bilateral Luxatio Erecta: An Atypical Presentation at the Emergency Department
Authors: Quesado Miguel , Soares Diogo , Afonso João , Lopes Daniel , Silva Fernando , Mendes Jorge
Published: January 2021

Bilateral luxatio erecta remains a rare condition, with less than 30 cases currently described in the literature. The authors present a case of bilateral inferior glenohumeral dislocation after a fall with low-energy trauma, treated with closed reduction and immobilization for 3 weeks followed by a physiotherapy program for functional rehabilitation. After 1 year of follow-up, the patient presented satisfactory results with a complete recovery of the previous mobility arch of both shoulders.
Birthweight and Environmental Conditions Impact Skin Barrier Adaptation in Neonates Receiving Natural Oil Massage
Authors: Visscher Marty O. , Summers Aimee , Narendran Vivek , Khatry Subarna , Sherchand Jeevan , LeClerq Steven , Katz Joanne , Tielsch James , Mullany Luke
Published: January 2021

Introduction: Skin interventions have been implemented to reduce neonatal mortality, demonstrating the skin’s role in neonatal innate immunity. We examined the impact of birthweight and environmental conditions on skin integrity in infants receiving oil massage in rural Nepal. Methods: In a community-based cluster randomized controlled trial, 991 premature and full-term infants were grouped by birthweight as: (1) 920–1,560 g, (2) 1,570–2,450 g, (3) 2,460–2,990 g, and (4) 3,000–4,050 g and by high or low heat index (HI). Skin integrity was measured as erythema, rash, dryness, pH, protein concentration, and transepidermal water loss (TEWL). Results: Skin pH was higher for the smallest (group 1) than the largest infants (group 4) and higher for group 2 than 3 and 4. Arm and leg rash differed for all 4 groups, with the least amount of rash for the smallest babies. Erythema was lower for group 1 than all others. The lower day 1 values for pH, TEWL and protein at high versus low HI remained lower over 28 days. The pH reduction was faster at high HI. Erythema (arm, leg) was more severe at high HI. Rash severity was greater at high HI for arms and legs every day. Conclusions: Birthweight influenced the skin response to oil massage. The smallest infants had the lowermost skin irritation, suggesting diminished ability to mount an inflammatory response. High HI may be protective for premature infants in low resource settings.
Gene-Centric Database Reveals Environmental and Lifestyle Relationships for Potential Risk Modification and Prevention
Authors: Martin Ron L.
Published: January 2021

The database at Nutrigenetics.net has been under development since 2007 to facilitate the identification and classification of PubMed articles relevant to human genetics. A controlled vocabulary (i.e., standardized terminology) is used to index these records, with links back to PubMed for every article title. This enables the display of indexes (alphabetical subtopic listings) for any given topic, or for any given combination of topics, including for genes and specific genetic variants. Stepwise use of such indexes (first for one topic, then for combinations of topics) can reveal relationships that are otherwise easily overlooked. These relationships include environmental and lifestyle variables with potential relevance to risk modification (both beneficial and detrimental), and to prevention, or at least to the potential delay of symptom onset for health conditions like Alzheimer disease among many others. Thirty-four specific genetic variants have each been mentioned in at least ≥1,000 PubMed titles/abstracts, and these numbers are steadily increasing. The benefits of indexing with standardized terminology are illustrated for genetic variants like MTHFR 677C-T and its various synonyms (e.g., rs1801133 or Ala222Val). Such use of a controlled vocabulary is also helpful for numerous health conditions, and for potential risk modifiers (i.e., potential risk/effect modifiers).
Patterns of Treatment Failure after Concurrent Chemoradiotherapy or Adjuvant Radiotherapy in Patients with Locally Advanced Cervical Cancer
Authors: Wang Yifei , Zhang Tao , Peng Siyun , Zhou Rui , Li Longhao , Kou Lingna , Yuan Mingyang , Li Minmin
Published: January 2021

Objective: To identify patterns of therapy failure after radiotherapy in Chinese patients with locally advanced cervical cancer (LACC). Methods: A retrospective study was conducted at a Chinese hospital from June 2012 to July 2018. All analyses were done using SPSS 26. Results: 105 patients with treatment failure were included. After a median follow-up of 27 months (range 10–82), the 3-year survival rate after therapy failure was 19.4%. In multivariate analysis, squamous cell carcinoma antigen (SCC-Ag) <4 ng/mL (p < 0.001) and disease-free interval >12 months (p = 0.013) showed significant survival benefits. We identified 3 types of failure: distant lymph node metastasis (n = 50), hematogenous metastasis (n = 53) and pelvic failure (n = 48). Most metastatic para-aortic lymph nodes (PALN) were inferior to the level of left renal hilum (84.8%, n = 28). A total of 80% of patients with supraclavicular lymph nodes (SCLN) metastasis ignored imaging on supraclavicular region. For solitary SCLN or lung metastasis, the prognosis was better than that combined with other sites failure, respectively (p = 0.005; p = 0.001). Many patients with central sites recurrence received insufficient doses of intracavitary brachytherapy (IBT) for low tolerance to pain. Conclusion: The distribution of metastatic PALN is asymmetrical and optimizing clinical target volume to minimize toxicity of para-aortic radiation is necessary. The effect of ultrasonography as preliminary screening and follow-up means on SCLN metastasis can be expected. Pain management and psychological interventions are essential for patients receiving IBT.
De la Hogra al Hirak: neocolonialismo, memoria y disidencia política juvenil en el Rif
Authors: Sánchez-García Jose , Touhtou Rachid
Published: January 2021

Resumen (analítico)Las teorías sobre movimientos sociales dominantes basadas en experiencias occidentales, pero ¿en qué medida pueden ayudarnos a comprender el proceso de construcción solidaria de prácticas políticas en contextos no occidentales políticamente cerrados? Según Bayat parece imprescindible una aproximación teórica que tenga en cuenta tanto la excepcionalidad árabe como la aplicación crítica de los modelos de las ciencias sociales en otros contextos que, muchas veces, olvidan los rasgos específicos que la protesta política ha adoptado en el mundo árabe. Este artículo, en el marco del proyecto Transgang, analizará un movimiento social marroquí aparecido en el Rif en 2016, protagonizado por poblaciones en edad juvenil, atendiendo a sus especificidades culturales usando las perspectivas decoloniales. Con este análisis, se presentarán algunas conclusiones para la investigación sobre movimientos sociales juveniles en sociedades árabes.
Palabras clave: Juventud, movimientos sociales, colonialismo, decolonialidad.
Two new deep-sea species of Laonice (Annelida: Spionidae) from the Mediterranean Sea
Authors: SIKORSKI ANDREY V. , PAVLOVA LYUDMILA V. , SARDÁ RAFAEL , LANGENECK JOACHIM , GIL JOÃO , RAVARA ASCENSÃO
Published: January 2021

Two new deep-sea species of the genus Laonice belonging to the subgenera Sarsiana and Appelloefia respectively, are described from the Mediterranean Sea. Complete specimens of the subgenus Appelloefia were studied for the first time, and the new information collected raised questions on the boundaries between the subgenera Appelloefia and Norgensia. The presence of characters in L. barcinensis sp. nov. previously considered to be exclusive to each these two subgenera suggests that they should be regarded as synonymous. The name Appelloefia being given precedence here, according to the Principle of the First Reviser. A correction is made regarding the depth range of Laonice rasmusseni Sikorski & Pavlova, 2018.
A Revision of fossil Bibionidae (Insecta: Diptera) from the Oligocene of Germany
Authors: SKARTVEIT JOHN , WEDMANN SONJA
Published: January 2021

We revise the available material of fossil Bibionidae from the Oligocene of Germany, except for the Early Oligocene site of Kleinkems which has recently been revised. The bulk of the material originates from the Late Oligocene Lagerstätten of Rott and Enspel. One new species, Bibio castaneipennis sp.n., is described from Enspel. The following new combinations are established: Hesperinus heeri (Heyden & Heyden, 1865) comb.n. (previously Plecia heeri), Plecia dubia (Germar, 1837) (previously Phthiria dubia). Plecia collossea (Heyden & Heyden, 1865) is removed from synonymy with Plecia morio (Heer, 1849), Plecia gracilenta (Heyden & Heyden, 1865) is removed from synonymy with Plecia lygaeoides (Heer, 1849). The following new synonymies are established: Plecia elegantula Meunier, 1915 = Penthetria rottensis Statz, 1943 = Penthetria scita Statz, 1943 = Hesperinus heeri (Heyden & Heyden, 1865); Plecia superba Meunier, 1915 = Plecia imperialis Statz, 1943 = Plecia philippi Statz, 1943 = Plecia collossea (Heyden & Heyden, 1865); Helophilus primarius Germar, 1837 = Plecia abava (Heyden & Heyden, 1865) = Plecia satyrus Statz, 1943 = Plecia dubia (Germar, 1837); Plecia expositia (Heyden & Heyden, 1865) = Plecia grandaeva (Heyden & Heyden, 1865) = Plecia antenata (Heyden & Heyden, 1865) = Plecia elongata (Heyden & Heyden, 1865) = Plecia pulchella Meunier, 1915 = Plecia hypogaea (Heyden & Heyden, 1865); Plecia schineri (Heyden & Heyden, 1865) = Plecia macrocephala (Heyden & Heyden, 1865); Plecia lapidaria (Heyden & Heyden, 1865) = Bibio brachypteroides Meunier, 1915 = Plecia vulpina Statz, 1943 = Plecia pinguis (Heyden & Heyden, 1865); Plecia lapidaria nigra Statz, 1943 = Plecia sluiteri Meunier, 1917; Plecia veterana (Heyden & Heyden, 1865) = Plecia stygia (Heyden & Heyden, 1865); Bibio spadicea Statz, 1943 = Bibio aerosus Statz, 1943; Bibio heydeni Meunier, 1920 = Bibio comosella Statz, 1943 = Bibio germari Meunier, 1920; Plecia heroica Heyden & Heyden, 1865 = Bibio giganteus Unger, 1841; Bibio infumatus Meunier, 1915 = Bibio mimas L. Heyden, 1870. The following names are placed as nomina dubia pending rediscovery of the type material: Plecia volgeri (C.H.G. Heyden, 1859); Bibio janus L. Heyden, 1870; Bibio tertiarius C.H.G. Heyden, 1862; Dilophus deletus (C.H.G. Heyden, 1862). The male morphotypes described but not formally named by Statz (1943) are tentatively assigned to named species.
Improved Precipitation Typing Using POSS Spectral Modal Analysis
Authors: Sheppard Brian E. , Thurai Merhala , Rodriguez Peter , Kennedy Patrick C. , Hudak David R.
Published: January 2021

The Precipitation Occurrence Sensor System (POSS) is a small X-band Doppler radar that measures the Doppler velocity spectra from precipitation falling in a small volume near the sensor. The sensor records a 2D frequency of occurrence matrix of the velocity and power at the mode of each spectrum measured over 1 min. The centroid of the distribution of these modes, along with other spectral parameters, defines a data vector input to a multiple discriminant analysis (MDA) for classification of the precipitation type. This requires the a priori determination of a training set for different types, particle size distributions (PSDs), and wind speed conditions. A software model combines POSS system parameters, a particle scattering cross section, and terminal velocity models, to simulate the real-time Doppler signal measured by the system for different PSDs and wind speeds. This is processed in the same manner as the system hardware to produce bootstrap samples of the modal centroid distributions for the MDA training set. MDA results are compared to images from the Multi-Angle Snowflake Camera (MASC) at the MASCRAD site near Easton, Colorado, and to the CSU–CHILL X-band radar observations from Greeley, Colorado. In the four case studies presented, POSS successfully identified precipitation transitions through a range of types (rain, graupel, rimed dendrites, aggregates, unrimed dendrites). Also two separate events of hail were reported and confirmed by the images.
No such thing as a free ride: The impact of disability labels on relationship building at work
Authors: Brzykcy Anna , Boehm Stephan
Published: January 2021

Do disability legislations that are meant to be beneficial for the employment situation of persons with disabilities have nevertheless unintended negative consequences? To provide key resources such as the right to workplace accommodation, governmental agencies first need to identify eligible persons and label them accordingly. However, this label may, in turn, induce public and self stigma that entails negative consequences for labeled individuals. We address this puzzle using a quasi-experimental study design: sharp regression discontinuity design. Specifically, we examine whether individuals officially labeled as “severely disabled” perceive fewer opportunities for relationship building at work than their counterparts with a similarly severe, yet unlabeled, disability condition. We use data from 845 employees with disabilities, which were drawn from a representative German workforce data set. As expected, labeling leads to perceptions of fewer opportunities for relationship building. We find this effect to be independent from supervisor knowledge of subordinate disability, type of disability, and one’s visibility of disability. These robustness checks strengthen the argument that the labeling effect might be driven primarily by self stigma rather than public stigma. Implications for organizations and public authorities are discussed.
Current process and outcomes of the surgical management of LUTS due to benign prostatic enlargement: how consistent are we? – results from the multi-institutional audit of surgical management of BPE (AuSuM BPE) in the United Kingdom
Authors: Joshi Hrishi , Sali Gaurav , Paramore Louise , Jones Richard , Lazarowicz Henry , Kujawa Magda Lucia , Pandit Amol , David Rotimi , Wilson Katherine , Bates Christopher , Shergill I , Gan Christine , El-Husseiny Tamer , Mukhtar Bashir , Appanna Timson , Veeratterapillay Rajan , Harding Christopher , Crockett Matthew , Dawson Christopher , Simpson Richard , Zelhof Bachar , Starmer B , Mukherjee Rono , Bourdoumis Andreas , Jelski Joseph , Hashim H , McCabe John , Shaw Greg , Chow Karyee , Betts Christopher
Published: January 2021

Objective

In view of changing landscape of surgical treatment for LUTS secondary to BPE, this audit was undertaken to assess key aspects of the processes and outcomes of the current interventional treatments for BPE, across different units in the UK.

Materials and method

A multi-institutional snapshot audit was conducted for patients undergoing interventions for LUTS/BPE over 8-week period. Using Delphi process two-part proforma was designed to capture data.

Results

529 patients were included across 20 NHS trusts in England and Wales. Median age was 73 years. Indications for surgery were acute retention (47%) and LUTS (45%). 80% of patients had prior medical therapy. TURP formed the commonest procedure. 27% patients had <23 hour hospital stay. Immediate (21%) and delayed (18%) complications were Clavien-Dindo <2 category. High proportion of patients reported residual symptoms. Type and indication of surgery were significant predictor of complications, length of stay and failure of TWOC outcomes, on multivariate analyses. There were variations in departmental processes, 50% centres used PROMs.

Conclusion

Monopolar TURP still remains the commonest intervention for BPE. Most departments are adopting newer technologies. The audit identified opportunities for development of consistent, effective and patient centric practices as well as need for large-scale focused studies.
Responsibility, resilience and symbolic power
Authors: King Hannah , Crossley Stephen , Smith Roger
Published: January 2021

The reciprocal nature of the relationship between the concepts of responsibilisation and resilience appears, in policy and political circles at least, almost natural. Whilst both concepts have been subjected to sustained academic critique for their presentation as largely individual or familial qualities, and their negation of social and structural pressures, there has been more limited attention paid to the potential of the concepts if they were put to work in a different way. This article attempts to sketch out ways in which the fundamentally relational aspects of the concepts of responsibility and resilience can be brought to the fore. In doing so, it builds on Rose and Lentzos’s argument that we should perhaps ‘argue not against responsibility and resilience but on the territory of responsibilities and resiliencies’ and sets out the case for engaging with, rather than withdrawing from or resisting discussions of the meanings and uses of these concepts, in tandem. Extending the work of Bourdieu and Wacquant, it argues for the need to turn the lens on the structures and mechanisms of power which promote and maintain inequality and divisive complex social relations, which undermine the possibility of collective ‘resilience’. The article advocates our collective ‘responsibility’ as engaging in processes that challenge and redefine these practices and structures to enable resistance and progressive action.
Retrosternal hematoma in sternal fracture for prediction of concomitant injury on chest CT
Authors: Son Ye Na , Kim Jung Im , Lee Han Na , Shin So Youn
Published: January 2021

Background

Isolated sternal fracture, a benign injury, has been increasing in the pan-scan era, although one-third of patients with sternal fracture still has trouble with concomitant injury. The differentiation of these two entities is important to optimize patient management.

Purpose

To evaluate correlation between retrosternal hematoma and concomitant injury in patients with sternal fracture and to identify predicting factors for concomitant injury in sternal fracture.

Material and Methods

A total of 139 patients (84 men; mean age = 54.9 ± 15.3 years) with traumatic sternal fracture were enrolled in this study. We reviewed medical charts and multiplanar computed tomography (CT) images to evaluate cause, location, and degree of sternal fracture, retrosternal hematoma, and concomitant injury. Univariate and multivariate analysis were used to identify variables that were associated with concomitant injury.

Results

Concomitant injury on chest CT was observed in 85 patients with sternal fracture. Of the patients, 98 (70.5%) were accompanied by retrosternal hematoma. Multivariate analysis revealed that retrosternal hematoma (odds ratio [OR] = 5.350; P < 0.001), manubrium fracture (OR = 6.848; P = 0.015), and motor vehicle accident (OR = 0.342; P = 0.015) were significantly associated with sternal fracture with concomitant injury.

Conclusion

Manubrium fracture and retrosternal hematoma portend a high risk of concomitant injury and indicate the need for further clinical and radiologic work-up.
Shear wave elastography of the radial nerve in healthy subjects
Authors: Bedewi Mohamed A , Kotb Mamdouh A , Aldossary Nasser M , Abodonya Ahmed M , Saleh Ayman K , Swify Sherine Mohamed
Published: January 2021

Objective

This study was performed to examine the sonoelastographic features of the radial nerve in healthy subjects.

Methods

In this observational cross-sectional study, shear wave elastography was used to evaluate the radial nerve. The cross-sectional area and stiffness were measured.

Results

The study included 37 nerves in 20 healthy adult subjects. The mean cross-sectional area of the radial nerve at the arm was 6.1 mm2. The mean stiffness of the radial nerve in the short axis was 30.3 kPa, and that in the long axis was 34.9 kPa. The elasticity measurements were significantly different between the long axis and short axis.

Conclusion

The elastic modulus of the radial nerve was studied in healthy subjects and can serve as a reference for future assessment of different radial nerve pathologies.
Reliability model for wind turbine blade composites under alternate action of normal and extreme wind loads
Authors: Gao Jianxiong , Yuan Yiping
Published: January 2021

Wind turbine blade is the key component to capture wind power, and it is mainly composed of glass fiber reinforced polymer (GFRP). Due to the randomness and volatility of wind speed in nature, wind turbine blade is usually subjected to the alternate action of normal and extreme wind loads during its long-term service. In this study, a reliability model that considering the stochastic wind loads and strength degradation of GFRP is proposed. Firstly, a residual strength model is developed based on the Palmgren-Miner (P-M) damage theory and the same damage state (SDS) principle, which is capable of characterizing the strength degradation law of GFRP under the normal wind load. Then, the alternate actions of normal and extreme wind loads are considered, and a dynamic reliability model is presented based on Poisson process and mathematical derivation. Finally, the traditional discrete stress-strength interference (DSSI) model is extended to calculate the dynamic reliability when probability distributions of stochastic wind loads and residual strength of GFRP are unknown. The wind load data and GFRP test data are utilized to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed model. The result shows that the reliability of GFRP keeps at a high level in the early stage, then it rapidly decreases due to the accumulation of fatigue damage.
The analysis on the influence of mixed sliding-rolling motion mode to precision degradation of ball screw
Authors: Cheng Qiang , Qi Baobao , Chu Hongyan , Zhang Ziling , Liu Zhifeng , Zheng Jigui
Published: January 2021

The combination of sliding/rolling motion can influence the degree of precision degradation of ball screw. Precision degradation modeling and factors analysis can reveal the evolution law of ball screw precision. This paper presents a precision degradation model for factors analysis influencing precision due to mixed sliding-rolling motion. The precision loss model was verified through the comparison of theoretical models and experimental tests. The precision degradation due to rolling motion between the ball and raceway accounted for 29.09% of the screw precision loss due to sliding motion. Additionally, the total precision degradation due to rolling motion accounted for 21.03% of the total sliding precision loss of the screw and nut, and 17.38% of the overall ball screw precision loss under mixed sliding-rolling motion. In addition, the effects of operating conditions and structural parameters on precision loss were analyzed. The sensitivity coefficients of factors influencing were used to quantitatively describe impact degree on precision degradation.
Evaluation and analysis of comprehensive performance of a brake pedal based on an improved analytic hierarchy process
Authors: Gu Yili , Xie Jinjie , Liu Hongji , Yang Yang , Tan Yudian , Chen Liqing
Published: January 2021

Due to the considerable increase in car parc and the remarkable improvement in vehicle properties and cost performance, higher requirements are being placed on driving comfort. With regard to the braking system, the enhancement of the brake pedal feel is one of the ways to improve the comfort, and affecting factors include spatial layout, dynamic characteristics, and the characteristics matching with the vehicle motion, so a comprehensive evaluation of a brake pedal is highly essential. This paper, by taking passenger cars in China as the research object, established a comprehensive evaluation system for pedals based on the improved analytic hierarchy process. The index weight in each index level was determined through the G1 method, and an experimental design was conducted on individual indices on the lowest level. The relationship parameters between the indices were measured through the test and comprehensive scores of each automobile pedal were obtained in combination with the evaluation method designed. Based on comprehensive scores, a typical analysis on 16 test vehicles was carried out, followed by a comparison of different index levels. Through result analysis, the direction for pedal improvement was proposed, and the feasibility of the method with the case is verified, which provides a scientific basis and a reference for vehicle pedal development, the calibration in position layout, and the pedal design.
An automation-based adaptive seamless design for dose selection and confirmation with improved power and efficiency
Authors: Cui Lu , Zhan Tianyu , Zhang Lanju , Geng Ziqian , Gu Yihua , Chan Ivan SF
Published: January 2021

In a drug development program, the efficacy and safety of multiple doses can be evaluated in patients through a phase 2b dose ranging study. With a demonstrated dose response in the trial, promising doses are identified. Their effectiveness then is further investigated and confirmed in phase 3 studies. Although this two-step approach serves the purpose of the program, in general, it is inefficient because of its prolonged development duration and the exclusion of the phase 2b data in the final efficacy evaluation and confirmation which are only based on phase 3 data. To address the issue, we propose a new adaptive design, which seamlessly integrates the dose finding and confirmation steps under one pivotal study. Unlike existing adaptive seamless phase 2b/3 designs, the proposed design combines the response adaptive randomization, sample size modification, and multiple testing techniques to achieve better efficiency. The design can be easily implemented through an automated randomization process. At the end, a number of targeted doses are selected and their effectiveness is confirmed with guaranteed control of family-wise error rate.
If things go South: The renewed policy of sport mega events allocation and its implications for future research
Authors: Graeff Billy , Knijnik Jorge
Published: January 2021

The past few decades have seen an increase of sport mega events (SMEs) held outside the Global North. This tendency has been accompanied by a growing public expenditure in these events. This paper employs selected Global South SMEs to discuss this trend. By critically analysing public documents, biddings and reports, the study traces comparisons between 21st-century Global South and Global North SMEs expenditures, in the revenue of franchise owners (FIFA and the International Olympic Committee), in construction costs within the budgets and in the costs related to security. This comprehensive and intertwined investigation shows the need for new analytical tools – such as the Renewed Policy of Sport Mega Events Allocation, a concept developed here - to better capture the central questions posed by the challenges of ‘SMEs going South’.
Hybrid multi-plate magnetorheological clutch featuring two operating modes: Fluid coupling and mechanical friction
Authors: Park Jin-Young , Kim Gi-Woo , Oh Jong-Seok , Kim Young-Choon
Published: January 2021

Recently, there has been a rising demand for high-performance clutches in mechanical systems owing to the development of industrial technologies. This paper, therefore, proposes a hybrid multi-plate Magnetorheological (MR) clutch that has both fluid coupling and mechanical friction modes. To reduce impact when the plates are in contact with each other, a fluid coupler’s operating mode was used at the beginning of the clutch operation. For this, torque modeling in each mode was induced based on the Bingham model of the MRF. Using the induced torque modeling and ANSYS Maxwell’s magnetic field analysis results, the design procedure for a multi-plate clutch was implemented. Based on the design results, a hybrid multi-plate MR clutch was manufactured. Finally, the performance of the manufactured MR clutch was evaluated using a torque tester. The assessment confirmed that the proposed torque modeling and simulation results mostly matched the test results.
Baseline Survey of China Social Work Longitudinal Study 2019: Design and Implementation
Authors: Yuan Yiqing , Liu Chang , Sun Zhongwei , He Xuesong
Published: January 2021

Purpose:

The China Social Work Longitudinal Study (CSWLS) aims to provide the first national longitudinal multilevel dataset that contains comprehensive domains to monitor the development of social work in China. This study presents the design and implementation of the baseline survey in 2019.

Methods:

The CSWLS includes three scholarly themes of professionalization, governmentality, and institutionalization, which are reflected in comprehensive questionnaires on social workers and social work agencies. The CSWLS is a longitudinal panel study that has multilevel datasets of social workers nested within agencies that are selected by a multistage sampling strategy.

Results:

The baseline survey collected 979 agency questionnaires and 5,965 social worker questionnaires in 56 cities, holding the validity rates of 98.59% and 99.92% respectively. The sample had certain national representativeness when comparing to existed national data in China.

Conclusions:

The CSWLS will become a critical tool for government officials, professional leaders, and academic researchers.