bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genetic differentiation between inshore and offshore populations of northern shrimp (Pandalus borealis)
Authors: Hansen Agneta , Westgaard Jon-Ivar , Søvik Guldborg , Hanebrekke Tanja , Nilssen Einar Magnus , Jorde Per Erik , Albretsen Jon , Johansen Torild
Published: September 2021

Many marine organisms have a permanent presence both inshore and offshore and spawn in multiple areas, yet their status as separate populations or stocks remain unclear. This is the situation for the northern shrimp (Pandalus borealis) around the Arctic Ocean, which in northern Norway represents an important income for a small-scale coastal fishery and a large-vessel offshore fleet. In Norwegian waters, we uncovered two distinct genetic clusters, viz. a Norwegian coastal and a Barents Sea cluster. Shrimps with a mixed heritage from the Norwegian coastal and the Barents Sea clusters, and genetically different from both, inhabit the fjords at the northernmost coast (Finnmark). Genetic structure between fjords did not display any general trend, and only the Varangerfjord in eastern Finnmark displayed significant genetic structure within the fjord. Shrimps in the Finnmark fjords differed in some degree from shrimps both in the adjacent Barents Sea and along the rest of the coast and should probably be considered a separate management unit.
Aortic valve neocuspidization for aortic regurgitation associated with ventricular septal defect
Authors: Sivalingam Sivakumar , Haranal Maruti , Pathan Iqbal Hussain
Published: September 2021

OBJECTIVES

Different methods of aortic valve repair have been described in the literature for aortic regurgitation (AR) associated with doubly committed subarterial ventricular septal defects. Our goal was to present our experience with aortic valve reconstruction of a single leaflet using the aortic valve neocuspidization technique in this subset of patients.

METHODS

It is a retrospective review of 7 patients with doubly committed subarterial ventricular septal defects with significant (>moderate) AR who underwent the single-leaflet neocuspidization technique of aortic valve reconstruction from January 2016 to January 2019. Data were collected from medical records. All patients had thorough 2-dimensional echocardiographic assessment preoperatively and during the follow-up period. Primary end points were freedom from postoperative AR and freedom from reoperation and all-cause mortality within the follow-up period with secondary end points of freedom from thromboembolism and infective endocarditis.

RESULTS

Out of 7 patients, 6 were male and 1 was female. There were no perioperative deaths. The mean follow-up period was 2.6 ± 0.8 years. No deaths occurred during the follow-up period. At the latest follow-up examination, only 2 patients showed mild AR and were asymptomatic. There was no documented event of infective endocarditis or thromboembolism during the follow-up period.

CONCLUSIONS

The aortic leaflet neocuspidization procedure for the aortic valve is a relatively new concept. Availability of a template makes it an easily reproducible valve repair in paediatric patients with a single-leaflet abnormality. This technique preserves the remaining 2 normal leaflets, thus promoting the growth potential while maintaining near normal aortic root complex dynamics.
Circulating levels of maternal vitamin D and risk of ADHD in offspring: results from the Vitamin D Antenatal Asthma Reduction Trial
Authors: Chu Su H , Huang Mengna , Kelly Rachel S , Kachroo Priyadarshini , Litonjua Augusto A , Weiss Scott T , Lasky-Su Jessica
Published: September 2021

Background

Low levels of circulating 25-hydroxy-vitamin D [25(OH)D] have been shown to associate with prevalent attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), but few studies have examined the association between 25(OH)D during fetal development and risk of childhood ADHD.

Methods

Maternal plasma 25(OH)D was measured at 10–18 and 32–38 weeks of gestation, with sufficiency defined as 25(OH)D ≥ 30 ng/ml. Offspring ADHD status between ages 6–9 years was measured by parent report of clinical ADHD diagnosis among 680 mother-child pairs from the Vitamin D Antenatal Asthma Reduction Trial. Association between maternal 25(OH)D and child ADHD was assessed using logistic regression, adjusting for maternal age, race and ethnicity. Effect modification by offspring sex was also assessed.

Results

No associations between maternal 25(OH)D at 10–18 weeks of gestation and offspring ADHD were observed. In the third trimester, we observed associations between maternal vitamin D sufficiency and offspring ADHD [odds ratio (OR) 0.47, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.26–0.84], in addition to maternal 25(OH)D sufficiency category, comparing the deficient (OR 0.34, 95% CI 0.12–0.94), insufficient (OR 0.41, 95% CI 0.15–1.10) and sufficient (OR 0.20, 95% CI 0.08–0.54) categories against highly deficient 25(OH)D, respectively. Stratified analyses revealed a protective association for sufficient maternal 25(OH)D and child ADHD among males (OR 0.47, 95% CI 0.23–0.94); the synergy index for additive effect modification of risk was 1.78 (95% CI 0.62–5.08).

Conclusions

Higher levels of maternal vitamin D in the third trimester are associated with lower risk of ADHD in offspring, with modest evidence for a stronger effect among male offspring. However, larger studies will be necessary to confirm these findings.
Reproductive factors and gall-bladder cancer, and the effect of common genetic variants on these associations: a case–control study in India
Authors: Mhatre Sharayu , Lacey Ben , Sherliker Paul , Chatterjee Nilanjan , Rajaraman Preetha , Goel Mahesh , Patkar Shraddha , Ostwal Vikas , Patil Prachi , Shrikhande Shailesh V , Chitkara Garvit , Badwe Rajendra , Lewington Sarah , Dikshit Rajesh
Published: September 2021

Background

In India, as elsewhere, the incidence of gall-bladder cancer (GBC) is substantially higher in women than in men. Yet, the relevance of reproductive factors to GBC remains poorly understood.

Methods

We used logistic regression adjusted for age, education and area to examine associations between reproductive factors and GBC risk, using 790 cases of histologically confirmed GBC and group-matched 1726 visitor controls. We tested the interaction of these associations by genetic variants known to increase the risk of GBC.

Results

Parity was strongly positively associated with GBC risk: each additional pregnancy was associated with an ∼25% higher risk {odds ratio [OR] 1.26 [95% confidence interval (95% CI) 1.17–1.37]}. After controlling for parity, GBC risk was weakly positively associated with later age of menarche [postmenopausal women, OR 1.11 (95% CI 1.00–1.22) per year], earlier menopause [OR 1.03 (95% CI 1.00–1.06) per year] and shorter reproductive lifespan [OR 1.04 (95% CI 1.01–1.07) per year], but there was little evidence of an association with breastfeeding duration or years since last pregnancy. Risk alleles of single-nucleotide polymorphisms in the ABCB4 and ABCB1 genetic regions had a multiplicative effect on the association with parity, but did not interact with other reproductive factors.

Conclusions

We observed higher GBC risk with higher parity and shorter reproductive lifespan, suggesting an important role for reproductive and hormonal factors.
A two-stage approximation strategy for piecewise smooth functions in two and three dimensions
Authors: Amat Sergio , Levin David , Ruiz-Álvarez Juan
Published: September 2021

Given values of a piecewise smooth function $f$ on a square grid within a domain $[0,1]^d$, $d=2,3$, we look for a piecewise adaptive approximation to $f$. Standard approximation techniques achieve reduced approximation orders near the boundary of the domain and near curves of jump singularities of the function or its derivatives. The insight used here is that the behavior near the boundaries, or near a singularity curve, is fully characterized and identified by the values of certain differences of the data across the boundary and across the singularity curve. We refer to these values as the signature of $f$. In this paper, we aim at using these values in order to define the approximation. That is, we look for an approximation whose signature is matched to the signature of $f$. Given function data on a grid, assuming the function is piecewise smooth, first, the singularity structure of the function is identified. For example, in the two-dimensional case, we find an approximation to the curves separating between smooth segments of $f$. Secondly, simultaneously, we find the approximations to the different segments of $f$. A system of equations derived from the principle of matching the signature of the approximation and the function with respect to the given grid defines a first stage approximation. A second stage improved approximation is constructed using a global approximation to the error obtained in the first stage approximation.
Backward Euler method for the equations of motion arising in Oldroyd model of order one with nonsmooth initial data
Authors: Bir Bikram , Goswami Deepjyoti , Pani Amiya K
Published: September 2021

In this paper, a backward Euler method combined with finite element discretization in spatial direction is discussed for the equations of motion arising in the two-dimensional Oldroyd model of viscoelastic fluids of order one with the forcing term independent of time or in $L^{\infty }$ in time. It is shown that the estimates of the discrete solution in Dirichlet norm is bounded uniformly in time. Optimal a priori error estimate in $\textbf {L}^2$-norm is derived for the discrete problem with nonsmooth initial data. This estimate is shown to be uniform in time, under the assumption of uniqueness condition. Finally, we present some numerical results to validate our theoretical results.
Quartic Lp-convergence of cubic Riemannian splines
Authors: Hardering Hanne , Wirth Benedikt
Published: September 2021

We prove quartic convergence of cubic spline interpolation for curves into Riemannian manifolds as the grid size of the interpolation grid tends to zero. In contrast to cubic spline interpolation in Euclidean space, where this result is classical, the interpolation operator is no longer linear. Still, concepts from the linear setting may be generalized to the Riemannian case, where we try to use intrinsic Riemannian formulations and avoid charts as much as possible.
L
p
-L
q Boundedness of (k, a)-Fourier Multipliers with Applications to Nonlinear Equations
Authors: Kumar Vishvesh , Ruzhansky Michael
Published: September 2021

The $(k,a)$-generalised Fourier transform is the unitary operator defined using the $a$-deformed Dunkl harmonic oscillator. The main aim of this paper is to prove $L^p$-$L^q$ boundedness of $(k, a)$-generalised Fourier multipliers. To show the boundedness, we first establish Paley inequality and Hausdorff–Young–Paley inequality for $(k, a)$-generalised Fourier transform. We also demonstrate applications of obtained results to study the well-posedness of nonlinear partial differential equations.
On the Second Homotopy Group of Spaces of Commuting Elements in Lie Groups
Authors: Adem Alejandro , Gómez José Manuel , Gritschacher Simon
Published: September 2021

Let $G$ be a compact connected Lie group and $n\geqslant 1$ an integer. Consider the space of ordered commuting $n$-tuples in $G$, ${\operatorname {\textrm {Hom}}}({\mathbb {Z}}^n,G)$, and its quotient under the adjoint action, $\textrm {Rep}({\mathbb {Z}}^n,G):={\operatorname {\textrm {Hom}}}({\mathbb {Z}}^n,G)/G$. In this article, we study and in many cases compute the homotopy groups $\pi _2({\operatorname {\textrm {Hom}}}({\mathbb {Z}}^n,G))$. For $G$ simply connected and simple, we show that $\pi _2({\operatorname {\textrm {Hom}}}({\mathbb {Z}}^2,G))\cong {\mathbb {Z}}$ and $\pi _2(\textrm {Rep}({\mathbb {Z}}^2,G))\cong {\mathbb {Z}}$ and that on these groups the quotient map ${\operatorname {\textrm {Hom}}}({\mathbb {Z}}^2,G)\to \textrm {Rep}({\mathbb {Z}}^2,G)$ induces multiplication by the Dynkin index of $G$. More generally, we show that if $G$ is simple and ${\operatorname {\textrm {Hom}}}({\mathbb {Z}}^2,G)_{\mathds 1}\subseteq {\operatorname {\textrm {Hom}}}({\mathbb {Z}}^2,G)$ is the path component of the trivial homomorphism, then $H_2({\operatorname {\textrm {Hom}}}({\mathbb {Z}}^2,G)_{\mathds 1};{\mathbb {Z}})$ is an extension of the Schur multiplier of $\pi _1(G)^2$ by ${\mathbb {Z}}$. We apply our computations to prove that if $B_{com}G_{\mathds 1}$ is the classifying space for commutativity at the identity component, then $\pi _4(B_{com}G_{\mathds 1})\cong {\mathbb {Z}}\oplus {\mathbb {Z}}$, and we construct examples of non-trivial transitionally commutative structures on the trivial principal $G$-bundle over the sphere ${\mathbb {S}}^{4}$.
On Totally Split Primes in High-Degree Torsion Fields of Elliptic Curves
Authors: Merikoski Jori
Published: September 2021

Analogously to primes in arithmetic progressions to large moduli, we can study primes that are totally split in extensions of ${\mathbb {Q}}$ of high degree. Motivated by a question of Kowalski we focus on the extensions ${\mathbb {Q}}(E[d])$ obtained by adjoining the coordinates of $d$-torsion points of a non-CM elliptic curve $E/{\mathbb {Q}}$. We show that for almost all integers $d$ there exists a non-CM elliptic curve $E/{\mathbb {Q}}$ and a prime $p<|\text {Gal}({\mathbb {Q}}(E[d])/{\mathbb {Q}})|= d^{4-o(1)}$, which is totally split in ${\mathbb {Q}}(E[d])$. Note that such a prime $p$ is not accounted for by the expected main term in the Chebotarev Density Theorem. Furthermore, we prove that for almost all $d$ that factorize suitably there exists a non-CM elliptic curve $E/{\mathbb {Q}}$ and a prime $p$ with $p^{0.2694} < d$, which is totally split in ${\mathbb {Q}}(E[d])$. To show this we use work of Kowalski to relate the question to the distribution of primes in certain residue classes modulo $d^2$. Hence, the barrier $p < d^4$ is related to the limit in the classical Bombieri–Vinogradov Theorem. To break past this we make use of the assumption that $d$ factorizes conveniently, similarly as in the works on primes in arithmetic progression to large moduli by Bombieri, Friedlander, Fouvry, and Iwaniec, and in the more recent works of Zhang, Polymath, and the author. In contrast to these works we do not require any of the deep exponential sum bounds (i.e., sums of Kloosterman sums or Weil/Deligne bound). Instead, we only require the classical large sieve for multiplicative characters and we apply Harman’s sieve method to obtain a combinatorial decomposition for primes.
Uniform Random Covering Problems
Authors: Koivusalo Henna , Liao Lingmin , Persson Tomas
Published: September 2021

Motivated by the random covering problem and the study of Dirichlet uniform approximable numbers, we investigate the uniform random covering problem. Precisely, consider an i.i.d. sequence $\omega =(\omega _n)_{n\geq 1}$ uniformly distributed on the unit circle $\mathbb{T}$ and a sequence $(r_n)_{n\geq 1}$ of positive real numbers with limit $0$. We investigate the size of the random set $$\begin{align*} & {\operatorname{{{\mathcal{U}}}}} (\omega):=\{y\in \mathbb{T}: \ \forall N\gg 1, \ \exists n \leq N, \ \text{s.t.} \ | \omega_n -y | < r_N \}. \end{align*}$$Some sufficient conditions for ${\operatorname{{{\mathcal{U}}}}}(\omega )$ to be almost surely the whole space, of full Lebesgue measure, or countable, are given. In the case that ${\operatorname{{{\mathcal{U}}}}}(\omega )$ is a Lebesgue null measure set, we provide some estimations for the upper and lower bounds of Hausdorff dimension.
Effective Multiple Equidistribution of Translated Measures
Authors: Björklund Michael , Gorodnik Alexander
Published: September 2021

We study the joint distributions of translated measures supported on periodic orbits that are expanded by subgroups of diagonal matrices and generalize (special cases) of previous results of Kleinbock–Margulis, Dabbs–Kelly–Li, and Shi. More specifically, we establish quantitative estimates on higher-order correlations for measures with low regularities and derive error terms that only depend on the distances between translations.
Analogues of Entropy in Bi-Free Probability Theory: Microstates
Authors: Charlesworth Ian , Skoufranis Paul
Published: September 2021

In this paper, we extend the notion of microstate free entropy to the bi-free setting. In particular, using the bi-free analogue of random matrices, microstate bi-free entropy is defined. Properties essential to an entropy theory are developed, such as the behaviour of the entropy when transformations on the left variables or on the right variables are performed. In addition, the microstate bi-free entropy is demonstrated to be additive over bi-free collections provided additional regularity assumptions are included and is computed for all bi-free central limit distributions. Moreover, an orbital version of bi-free entropy is examined, which provides a tighter upper bound for the subadditivity of microstate bi-free entropy and provides an alternate characterization of bi-freeness in certain settings.
Logics of Gender, Peace, and Security: Theorizing Gender and Protection at the Intersections of State and Civil Society
Authors: Hall Lucy B
Published: September 2021

This article traces the discursive construction of women as “civil society actors”; a discourse common to the Responsibility to Protect (R2P) Doctrine and the Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) Agenda. I argue that the discursive construction of women as civil society actors relies on and (re)produces gendered constructions. By tracing the discourses and logics across the R2P Doctrine and WPS Agenda, I demonstrate that both normative frameworks rely on gendered logics of agency. This poses significant dilemmas concerning the implementation of the R2P Doctrine and WPS Agenda. Namely, the gendered and therefore unequal expectations of women's civil society organizations (CSOs) to prevent, detect, and respond to violence. This paper contributes to broader concerns regarding the closer alignment of R2P and WPS, with a focus at where these two frameworks overlap in relation to mass atrocity detection, prevention, and response. The argument this article develops demonstrates that the spaces within and between the WPS Agenda and R2P Doctrine, the agency of women's CSOs is constrained, instrumentalized, and co-opted by the state and market. This presents concerns for the implementation of the aims (shared or otherwise) of R2P and WPS. Finally, this article raises urgent questions concerning the relationship between states and women's CSOs, the funding and independence of CSOs and the expectations placed on CSOs to contribute to international peace and security.
The Politics of Exceptionalism: Securitization and COVID-19
Authors: Kirk Jessica , McDonald Matt
Published: September 2021

The suggestion that we “are at war” with the coronavirus pandemic was not uncommon in national representations of the challenge posed by the virus. Such a representation was in turn frequently linked to the imperative of emergency responses, including expanded police powers, national lockdowns, and border closures. For theorists of securitization, this is not surprising. For them, the language of security and existential threat enables extraordinary and exceptional practices. This paper interrogates these assumptions about the performative and enabling role of securitizing language by beginning with emergency measures and asking how these were justified, how they became possible, and how prominent the language of “security” was to this politics of exceptionalism. It examines justifications for emergency responses—national lockdown and/or border closures—in the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand in March 2020. Ultimately, the cases examined demonstrate significant variability in justifications for similar extreme measures. In the process, this analysis challenges core assumptions about the conditions in which extraordinary measures become possible, suggesting, in turn, the need for a context-specific understanding of both securitization and the conditions of exceptionalism.
Mapping the coverage, availability and uptake of External Quality Assessment programmes across One Health sectors in Asia
Authors: Mogeni Ondari D , Abegaz Freshwork Ayalew , Kim Jong-Hoon , Joh Hea Sun , Kastbjerg Vicky Gaedt , Pedersen Susanne Karlsmose , Hendriksen Rene S , Holm Marianne
Published: September 2021

Introduction

Establishing effective external quality assessment (EQA) programmes is an important element in ensuring the quality of, and building capacity for, antimicrobial resistance (AMR) laboratory surveillance.

Objectives

To understand the current coverage of, and challenges to participation in, EQAs in National Reference Laboratories (NRLs) across One Health (OH) sectors in Asia.

Methods

Current EQA coverage was evaluated through desktop review, online surveys and interviews of both EQA participants and providers. EQA coverage was mapped and summarized by laboratory type and ‘readiness’ level and identified challenges evaluated qualitatively.

Results

Of the 31 identified NRLs [16 Human Health (HH) and 15 Animal/Food Safety laboratories (A/FS)], 14 HH and 7 A/FS laboratories currently participated in international EQA schemes and several participated in two or more different schemes. Seven laboratories were currently not participating in any EQA scheme and two of these (one HH and one A/FS) do not currently perform microbiology; six HH NRLs provided national EQAs. Of the eight surveyed international EQA providers, three were based in Asia and all offered varying programmes in terms of pathogens, frequency and support mechanisms for reporting and follow-up. Only one provider currently served laboratories across all OH sectors.

Conclusions

The current coverage of EQA programmes for AMR in Asia was heterogeneous across countries but especially across OH sectors. This updated overview of the coverage and challenges associated with participation in, and provision of, EQAs for AMR suggest the benefit and relevance of introducing one comprehensive and high-quality EQA programme across OH sectors in Asia.
Fosfomycin single- and multiple-dose pharmacokinetics in patients undergoing prolonged intermittent renal replacement therapy
Authors: Gerecke Lisa K V , Schmidt Julius J , Hafer Carsten , Eden Gabriele , Bode-Böger Stefanie M , Martens-Lobenhoffer Jens , Welte Tobias , Kielstein Jan T
Published: September 2021

Background

Fosfomycin is used increasingly in the treatment of MDR bacteria. It is eliminated by renal excretion, but data regarding dosing recommendations for patients undergoing modern means of renal replacement therapies are scarce.

Objectives

Evaluation of the pharmacokinetics (PK) of fosfomycin in patients undergoing prolonged intermittent renal replacement therapy (PIRRT) to guide dosing recommendations.

Methods

Fosfomycin was given in 11 (7 female) patients with severe infections undergoing PIRRT. Plasma levels were measured at several timepoints on the first day of fosfomycin therapy, as well as 5–6 days into therapy, before and after the dialyser, to calculate its clearance. Fosfomycin was measured in the collected spent dialysate.

Results

The median (IQR) plasma dialyser clearance for fosfomycin was 183.4 (156.9–214.9) mL/min, eliminating a total amount of 8834 (4556–10 440) mg of fosfomycin, i.e. 73.9% (45.3%–93.5%) of the initial dose. During PIRRT, the fosfomycin half-life was 2.5 (2.2–3.4) h. Data from multiple-dose PK showed an increase in fosfomycin Cmax from 266.8 (166.3–438.1) to 926.1 (446.8–1168.0) mg/L and AUC0–14 from 2540.5 (1815.2–3644.3) to 6714 (4060.6–10612.6) mg·h/L. Dialysis intensity during the study was 1.5 L/h. T>MIC was 100% in all patients.

Conclusions

Patients undergoing PIRRT experience significant fosfomycin elimination, requiring a dose of 5 g/8 h to reach adequate plasma levels. However, drug accumulation may occur, depending on dialysis frequency and intensity.
Impact of the AACC Global Laboratory Quality Initiative in Partnership with Professional Societies and Universities in Latin America and the Caribbean
Authors: Luzzi Verónica , Algeciras-Schimnich Alicia , Calderón Boris , Colón-Franco Jessica M , Garcia Juan D , Goldsmith Barbara M , Jara-Aguirre José , Laterza Omar , Leung-Pineda Van , Palavecino Elizabeth L , Parnás M Laura , Zabaleta Eugenio H , Sierra-Amor Rosa
Published: September 2021

The Global Lab Quality Initiative (GLQI), formerly known as the Emerging Countries program, was funded through a generous endowment from the Wallace H. Coulter Foundation. The aims of GLQI are to develop and implement innovative programs to promote education and training in laboratory medicine for low- or lower middle-income countries worldwide. From its inception in 2010, the GLQI was focused solely on the Latin America and Caribbean (LAC) region under the purview of AACC’s Latin American Working Group (LAWG), the members of which have strong ties to the region thereby facilitating the partnerships with national societies. The LAWG has provided in-person workshops in the LAC countries, at the AACC Annual Scientific Meeting, and on-demand webinars. The LAWG aims to implement the GLQI aims in the LAC region. In-person workshops are based on best-practice recommendations and sources such as Clinical Laboratory Standard Institute guidelines and supplemented with professional experiences of the LAWG’s lecturers and local experts of the countries visited. In 2015, the GLQI expanded to other regions of the world. Here we report the experience of the LAWG workshops, results of participant surveys, in-person visits to laboratories post-workshop, and the lessons learned throughout the years across different geographic areas. We are hopeful this report provides insights into the challenges and successes of the LAWG in LAC to help support the expansion of the GLQI.
Assessment of Sigma Metrics for Routine Chemistry Testing in 4 Laboratories in Kwa-Zulu Natal, South Africa
Authors: Moodley Nareshni , Gounden Verena
Published: September 2021

Background

Sigma metrics is a quantitative management tool. This study assessed the Six Sigma score for 26 chemistry analytes, compared scores with different total allowable errors (TEa) and use of scores for internal quality control (IQC) rules in 4 Laboratories in Kwa-Zulu Natal, South Africa.

Methods

Utilizing 6 months of IQC SD, CV, and bias data on albumin, alkaline phosphatase, alanine aminotransferase, amylase, aspartate aminotransferase, bicarbonate, calcium, total cholesterol, creatine kinase, chloride, creatinine, gamma glutamyl transferase, glucose, HDL-cholesterol, potassium, lactate dehydrogenase, magnesium, sodium, inorganic phosphate, direct bilirubin, total bilirubin, triglycerides, total protein, urea nitrogen, uric acid, and C-reactive protein (CRP) Six Sigma scores were calculated using Microsoft Excel 2016 and ideal IQC rules were determined. Six Sigma scores using Ricos et al. 2014, Royal College of Pathologists Australasia, and Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments TEas were compared.

Results

For levels 1, 2, and 3 respectively, analytes scoring >3 sigma was 9 (35%), 12 (46%), and 14 (54%) in Laboratory A; Laboratory B had 15 (58%), 19 (73%), and 17 (65%); Laboratory C had 12 (46%), 13 (50%), and 15 (58%); and Laboratory D had 13 (50%), 18 (69%), and 18 (69%). Albumin, calcium, sodium, magnesium, bicarbonate, and chloride scored <3; CRP scored >6 for all. In Laboratories A, B, C, and D, 7 (27%), 7 (27%), 6 (23%), and 8 (31%) analytes, respectively, required only 1 IQC rule. One of 21 analytes for Laboratories C and D, 3 for Laboratory A, and 0 for Laboratory B had the same sigma score with all 3 databases.

Conclusion

Despite South Africa being a developing nation, many analytes are able to achieve >3 sigma.
Preoperative Endoscopic Ultrasound Fine Needle Aspiration Versus Upfront Surgery in Resectable Pancreatic Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Clinical Outcomes Including Survival and Risk of Tumor Recurrence
Authors: Alghamdi Adel , Palmieri Vincent , Alotaibi Nawaf , Barkun Alan , Zogopoulos George , Chaudhury Prosanto , Barkun Jeffrey , Miller Corey , Benmassaoud Amine , Parent Josee , Martel Myriam , Chen Yen-I
Published: September 2021

Background and Aim

Endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration (EUS-FNA) is the standard of care in advanced pancreatic cancer. Its role in resectable disease, however, is controversial. This meta-analysis aims to ascertain the clinical outcomes of patients with resectable pancreatic cancer undergoing preoperative EUS-FNA compared to those going directly to surgery.

Methods

A literature search was performed from 1996 to April 2019 using MEDLINE, EMBASE, and ISI Web of Knowledge for studies comparing preoperative EUS-FNA to EUS without FNA in resectable pancreatic cancer for clinical outcomes. The primary outcome is overall survival (OS). Secondary outcomes include cancer-free survival, tumor recurrence and peritoneal carcinomatosis, and post-FNA-pancreatitis rate.

Results

Six retrospective studies were included. Preoperative EUS-FNA had better OS than the non-FNA group (WMD, 4.40 months [0.02 to 8.78]). Cancer-free survival did not differ significantly between the two groups (WMD, 2.08 months [−2.22 to 6.38]). EUS with FNA was not associated with increased rates of tumor recurrence or peritoneal carcinomatosis.

Conclusion

Preoperative EUS-FNA in resectable pancreatic cancer may be associated with significantly greater OS when compared to the non-FNA group, with no significant difference in the rates of tumor recurrence or peritoneal seeding. Important limitations of our meta-analysis include the lack of prospective controlled data, which are unlikely to emerge given feasible constraints.
The different morphotypes in males of the freshwater prawn Macrobrachium tenellum (Smith, 1871) (Decapoda: Caridea: Palaemonidae) in Mexico
Authors: Vargas-Ceballos Manuel A , Guerrero-Galván Saúl R , Ponce-Palafox Jesús T , López-Huerta Jorge , Cortés-Jacinto Edilmar , Badillo-Zapata Daniel , Vega-Villasante Fernando
Published: September 2021

We analyzed the occurrence of morphotypes in the males of Macrobrachium tenellum (Smith, 1871), a species of potential use in farming, using biometric data and multivariate statistical analysis. Specimens were collected in the Ameca River, Mexico and grown for four months in two rectangular concrete ponds 50 m2 at an initial density of 10 individuals m–2. A biometric analysis was done on all male specimens, identified by the presence of the appendix masculina on the second pair of pleopods. We measured eight dimensions in each of the measured male specimens. Color and spination of the right second cheliped were also determined. We performed a statistical analysis of the data using multivariate analysis, which resulted in the identification of five morphotypes: dark-brown claw (DBrC), brown claw (BrC), cinnamon claw (CC), translucent claw (TC), and small male (SM). The mean of groups of almost all variables showed statistically significant differences except for the ratio Lcl:Lpo. There was no significant difference between groups BrC and DBrC, and spine angles were not significant between groups CC versus TC and BrC. A detailed description of the main macroscopic characteristics that differed between morphotypes is provided, which will allow their identification in future work. Our results will also help in studying social interactions between the male morphotypes.
Description of two new species of the freshwater amphipod Hyalella Smith, 1874 (Amphipoda: Hyalellidae) from southeastern Brazil, with remarks on their population biology and reproduction
Authors: Rocha Penoni Ludmila , Alvarenga Lares Margareth Marinho , de Pádua Bueno Alessandra Angélica
Published: September 2021

We describe two new species of HyalellaSmith, 1874 from São Paulo state, southeastern Brazil, presenting morphological details and shedding some light on the reproductive and populational aspects of the new species. Hyalella balan. sp. not only has a smaller mean body length in relation to H. virgineaen. sp., but their antennas 1 and 2 are also shorter than those of H. virgineaen. sp. There is a positive but weak correlation between head size of paired males and females, and unpaired females are usually smaller than paired or ovigerous ones, for both species. The sex ratio for H. balan. sp. favors females, while there are 28% more males than available females in H. virgineaen. sp.. Hyalella virgineaen. sp. ovigerous females carry more and larger eggs than H. balan. sp., probably in response to differences in habitat use. We increase to 37 the number of species of Hyalella in Brazil, and to eight in São Paulo state.
Morphology and reproduction in the Hapalocarcinus marsupialis Stimpson, 1859 species complex (Decapoda: Brachyura: Cryptochiridae)
Authors: Bähr Susanne , Johnson Magnus L , Berumen Michael L , Hardenstine Royale S , Rich Walter A , van der Meij Sancia E T
Published: September 2021

Symbiotic relationships contribute considerably to the high biodiversity found on coral reefs. Coral-dwelling gall crabs (Cryptochiridae) represent a prime example of coral-associated invertebrates that exhibit obligate relationships with their host. The induction of a skeletal modification in the coral, used as a dwelling by the crab, is the most remarkable aspect of this close association. Here we examined Hapalocarcinus marsupialisStimpson, 1859, collected from Pocillopora and Stylophora corals in the Saudi Arabian Red Sea. Specimens were DNA barcoded, and five distinct clades were revealed, providing further evidence for the hypothesis that H. marsupialis is a species complex. Divergence (COI) between the clades ranged from 3.2 to 15.7%. The putative species were tested for differences in morphology and reproduction. Crabs were examined regarding morphometric characters (carapace length and width, pleon (abdomen), chelae, and growth patterns) and reproductive traits. The data were pooled and analysed by host genus and putative species, which revealed significant differences for most of the measured variables in female crabs. Specimens retrieved from Pocillopora were significantly larger (up to 49 %) and had higher fecundity than those inhabiting Stylophora. For reproductive output (RO) no differences at species- or host-genus level were detected. The average RO of ~70% over all specimens is high compared to other brachyurans, supporting the assumption that symbiotic brachyurans invest more energy in reproduction than their free-living counterparts. Discrepancies with published data on growth and reproduction of Hapalocarcinus are discussed. Our results demonstrate the usefulness of morphometric traits and fecundity in separating the clades in the H. marsupialis complex, and prepare the ground for further morphometric studies on the genus and other symbiotic brachyurans. Moreover, it highlights the need to check for the presence of cryptic species when studying aspects of the biology of a species.
Cardenolide, Potassium, and Pyrethroid Insecticide Combinations Reduce Growth and Survival of Monarch Butterfly Caterpillars (Lepidoptera: Nymphalidae)
Authors: Krueger Annie J , Robinson Emily A , Weissling Thomas J , Vélez Ana M , Anderson Troy D
Published: September 2021

The monarch butterfly, Danaus plexippus L., has evolved to be insensitive to milkweed cardenolides via genetic modifications of Na+/K+-ATPase. There is concern for insecticide exposures near agriculture, with little information on monarch caterpillar toxicology. It is unclear how cardenolide insensitivity may affect the sensitivity of monarch caterpillars to pyrethroid insecticides. Additionally, potassium fertilizers may affect monarch caterpillar physiology and cardenolide sequestration. Here, we investigated the growth, survival, and development of caterpillars exposed to the cardenolide ouabain, bifenthrin, and potassium chloride (KCl) alone and in combination. Caterpillars were either exposed to 1) ouabain from third- to fifth-instar stage, 2) KCl at fifth-instar stage, 3) KCl and bifenthrin at fifth-instar stage, or 4) combinations of ouabain at third-instar stage + KCl + bifenthrin at fifth-instar stage. Caterpillar weight, diet consumption, frass, and survival were recorded for the duration of the experiments. It was observed that 1–3 mg ouabain/g diet increased body weight and diet consumption, whereas 50 mg KCl/g diet decreased body weight and diet consumption. Caterpillars feeding on KCl and treated with 0.2 µg/µl bifenthrin consumed significantly less diet compared to individuals provided untreated diet. However, there was no effect on survival or body weight. Combinations of KCl + ouabain did not significantly affect caterpillar survival or body weight following treatment with 0.1 µg/µl bifenthrin. At the concentrations tested, there were no effects observed for bifenthrin sensitivity with increasing cardenolide or KCl concentrations. Further studies are warranted to understand how milkweed-specific cardenolides, at increasing concentrations, and agrochemical inputs can affect monarch caterpillar physiology near agricultural landscapes.
Lethal and Sublethal Toxicity of Pesticides Used in Fruit Growing on the Parasitoid Diachasmimorpha longicaudata (Hymenoptera: Braconidae): Implications for Integrated Fruit Fly Management
Authors: Cardoso Tais Dalla Nora , Stupp Paloma , Rakes Matheus , Martins Matheus Bastos , da Silva Filho José Gomes , Grützmacher Anderson Dionei , Nava Dori Edson , Bernardi Daniel , Botton Marcos
Published: September 2021

The larval-pupal endoparasitoid Diachasmimorpha longicaudata (Ashmead, 1905) is considered one of the main biological control agents of fruit flies Ceratitis capitata Wiedemann (1824) and Anastrepha fraterculus Wiedemann (1830) in Central and South America. The application of pesticides for disease and insect-pest management in fruit species may have adverse effects on the parasitoid. The objective of this study was to evaluate the lethal and sublethal effects via residual contact of commercial pesticide formulations on D. longicaudata. The active ingredients thiamethoxam, indoxacarb, chlorpyrifos, deltamethrin, spinetoram, spinosad, phosmet, lambda-cyhalothrin, malathion, dimethoate, and methidationa showed high toxicity to adults (100% mortality) after 96 h and were classified as harmful (Class 4). In contrast, the formulations of azadirachtin (Agroneem 850 EC, Azact 2.4 EC, Azamax 12 EC, and Fitoneem 850 EC), chlorantraniliprole, bordeaux mixture, sulfur, lufenuron, lime sulphur, novalurom, and mancozeb were rated as innocuous (<10% mortality). In addition, the formulations azadirachtin did not reduce the parasitism and the emergence rate of the F0 generation, the same pesticides added to chlorantraniliprole, azadirachtin A+B (Agroneem 850 EC), and lufenuron did not cause reduction in parasitism and emergence rate of the F1 generation of D. longicaudata. The use of pyrethroids, organophosphates, spinosyns, oxadiazines, and neonicotinoids should be used with caution in IPM programs. While pesticides chlorantraniliprole, azadirachtin formulations, bordeaux mixture, lufenuron, lime sulphur, and mancozeb do not cause lethal and sublethal effects for D. longicaudata adults. The results of this study provide important information for use in integrated pest management programs for fruit fly management.
Oviposition Responses of Female Mediterranean Fruit Flies (Diptera: Tephritidae) to Fruit Volatile Compounds
Authors: Antonatos Spyridon , Papadopoulos Nikolaos T , Anastasaki Eirini , Kimbaris Athanasios , Papachristos Dimitrios P
Published: September 2021

The Mediterranean fruit fly, Ceratitis capitata (Wiedemann), is one of the most important pests of fruits worldwide. In the present study, we investigated the ovipositional response of C. capitata females to 37 compounds of fruit volatiles from various chemical groups and the dose response to five of them. Red plastic hollow hemispheres (domes) were used as oviposition substrates in all tests. Twenty of the compounds tested increased female egg laying compared to control substrates that contain no chemicals. With 16 compounds, similar number of eggs was deposited in treated and in control oviposition substrates. One terpene ((±)-linalool) reduced egg laying indicating a deterrent ovipositional effect. Both the esters and aldehydes tested increased the ovipositional responses in C. capitata. Most of the monoterpene hydrocarbons increased oviposition, while oxygenated monoterpenes, sesquiterpenes hydrocarbons, and oxygenated sesquiterpenes had mostly neutral effect. Ethyl hexanoate and R-(+)-limonene increased oviposition in the majority of doses tested. Different doses of (−)-linalool elicited differential female ovipositional responses. In contrast, valencene and citral, regardless of dose did not affect female oviposition. Practical implications of these findings are discussed.
Knockdown of Uridine Diphosphate Glucosyltransferase 86Dg Enhances Susceptibility of Tribolium castaneum (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae) to Artemisia vulgaris (Asterales: Asteraceae) Essential Oil
Authors: Gao Shanshan , Sun Haidi , Zhang Jiahao , Zhang Yonglei , Sun Peipei , Shang Jin , Zhang Kunpeng , Li Ruimin
Published: September 2021

Uridine diphosphate glucosyltransferases (UGTs), which are phase II detoxification enzymes, are found in various organisms. These enzymes play an important role in the detoxification mechanisms of plant allelopathy and in insects. Artemisia vulgaris L. (Asterales: Asteraceae: Artemisia) essential oil has strong contact toxicity to Tribolium castaneum Herbst (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae) larvae. However, the effect of A. vulgaris essential oil on UGTs is unclear. In this study, A. vulgaris essential oil was shown to significantly induce the expression of the TcUgt86Dg transcript. Furthermore, treatment of TcUgt86Dg-silenced individuals with A. vulgaris essential oil resulted in higher mortality than for the control individuals, indicating that TcUgt86Dg is involved in detoxification of A. vulgaris essential oil in T. castaneum. The developmental expression profile showed that the expression of TcUgt86Dg in late adults was higher than in other developmental stages. Furthermore, the expression profile in adult tissues revealed higher expression of TcUgt86Dg in the head, antenna, fat body, and accessory gland than in other tissues. These data show that TcUgt86Dg may be involved in the metabolism of exogenous toxins by T. castaneum; thus, our results have elucidated one possible mechanism of resistance to A. vulgaris essential oil and provide a theoretical basis for a control scheme for T. castaneum.
Susceptibility of Boll Weevil (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) to Ethiprole, Differential Toxicity Against Selected Natural Enemies, and Diagnostic Concentrations for Resistance Monitoring
Authors: Torres Jorge Braz , Rolim G G , Potin D M , Arruda L S , Neves R C S
Published: September 2021

Synthetic insecticide application is one tactic for reducing boll weevil, Anthonomus grandis grandis Boheman (Coleoptera: Curculionidae), infestations during the cotton, Gossypium hirsutum L., reproductive stage. We assessed the susceptibility of the boll weevil and its natural enemies to ethiprole (mode of action 2B), a phenylpyrazole insecticide, and diagnostic concentrations of ethiprole indicative of boll weevil susceptibility. Differences in the lethal concentrations of ethiprole were calculated with susceptibility ratios based on LC50 ranging from 2.89- to 10.34-fold relative to a natural susceptible population. The lowest and the highest recommended field rates of ethiprole, 100 and 200 g a.i./ha, produced residues that caused 83.3% and 93.7% mortality of weevils caged with cotton leaves from field-treated plants for 8 d. We found that ethiprole was less toxic than fipronil to the boll weevil parasitoid Bracon vulgaris Ashmead (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) and to the red imported fire ant, Solenopsis invicta Buren (Hymenoptera: Formicidae), while fipronil was highly toxic to both. Adult earwigs, Euborellia annulipes Lucas (Dermaptera: Anisolabididae), were relatively tolerant to ethiprole and fipronil at the highest field rates. Pooled LC50-and LC95-concentrations of ethiprole calculated from studied populations were used as diagnostic for boll weevil mortality, and the outcome fitted to the expected mortality for boll weevil populations from different locations serving for further control failure assessment. Ethiprole appears to be suitable for boll weevil control with low impact on natural enemy communities.
Environmental Constitutionalism with Chinese Characteristics
Authors: Shen Hao
Published: September 2021

Through the Constitutional amendments of 2018, the environmental provisions in China’s Constitution have been further developed. Policy endorsement from the Communist Party of China is a key factor that prompted the inclusion of additional environmental provisions in the 2018 constitutional amendments. China’s environmental Constitution adopts the ‘national objective provision’ approach which imposes obligations of environmental care on State institutions and public authorities, such as the legislature, the executive and the judiciary. These are the two most important characteristics of environmental constitutionalism in China. This analysis traces the development of China’s environmental constitution and examines the constitutional significance of the provisions inserted in the Preamble and those expanded upon in the constitutional mandate of the State Council.
Digital Euro, Monetary Objects, and Price Stability: A Legal Analysis
Authors: Zellweger-Gutknecht Corinne , Geva Benjamin , Grünewald Seraina Neva
Published: September 2021

The Eurosystem is mandated to safeguard price stability according to article 127 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU). Based on a theoretical and policy-oriented approach, this article sheds light on a second public good with enormous practical relevance both for financial markets and institutions as well as for the general public that the Eurosystem, and ultimately the European Central Bank (ECB), must safeguard according to article 128 TFEU: the availability of ideal monetary objects for the public. While monetary policy constitutes the instrument used to keep prices stable, the availability of ideal monetary objects is ensured through the issuance of ‘cash’ that serves as both money with selected properties and an anchor for other monies of the same currency, including sight deposits at commercial banks. Today, the role of ideal monetary objects is (still) primarily fulfilled by tangible banknotes. As the use of tangible banknotes declines, however, a digital equivalent and complement—a digital euro—becomes increasingly necessary. Accordingly, the article concludes that the ECB is both entitled and obliged de lege lata to issue a digital euro on the basis of article 128 TFEU. It further explains that neither tangible cash nor a digital euro can simultaneously be used as instruments in themselves to maintain price stability.
Revised and Potential New Tactics for the Suppression of Southern Pine Beetle Infestations
Authors: Clarke Stephen R , Meeker James R , Dodds Kevin J
Published: September 2021

Cut-and-remove has been the recommended suppression technique for the suppression of infestations of the southern pine beetle (SPB), Dendroctonus frontalis Zimmermann (Coleoptera: Curculionidae), with cut-and-leave applied when conditions prevent removal of the felled pines. Changes in forest management practices and the timber industry, plus the expansion of SPB northward have led to an increased reliance on cut-and-leave in recent years. This change has resulted in an exploration of methods to improve the efficacy of cut-and-leave and the development of new tactics for suppressing SPB infestations. We describe these revised and new techniques and discuss their potential applications given current forest management conditions.