bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
First record of tiger beetles (Coleoptera, Cicindelidae) from Rovno amber, with the description of a new genus and species
Authors: MATALIN ANDREY V. , PERKOVSKY EVGENY E. , VASILENKO DMITRY V.
Published: August 2021

A new fossil tiger beetle species, Goriresina fungifora gen. n., sp. n. (Coleoptera, Cicindelidae), is described from Eocene Rovno amber. The new genus belongs to the subtribe Iresiina, tribe Cicindelini, due to the glabrous head, the labrum with six submarginal setae (latero-basal setae very long) and two apical teeth with notch between them, the glabrous and globular pronotum, the lack of setae on the metepisternum and metepimeron, as well as on the visible parts of abdominal sternites, the single long seta each on the fore- and mesotrochanter. The new species is characterized by the long and moderately convex labrum, two clypeal setae, the elongate and apicad converging elytra with an angularly, but smoothly rounded apex, the small and sharp sutural spine, the probable presence of an apical portion of the elytral humeral spot, a slightly sinuate, transverse medial fascia with an extended and downward directed apical portion, and a slightly transverse basal portion of the apical spot. This is the first record of a tiger beetle in Rovno amber and only a fourth well-preserved Cicindelidae from fossil resins.
Zagurya, a new genus from Brazil with notes on claw movement in Macrodactylini (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae: Melolonthinae)
Authors: FUHRMANN JUARES
Published: August 2021

Zagurya new genus is described from a species formerly placed in Plectris LePeletier & Audinet-Serville, 1828: Zagurya eusquamosa (Frey, 1975), new combination (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae: Melolonthinae: Macrodactylini). The male of the species is described for the first time. Notes on classification, distribution, and comparison with the similar genus Mallotarsus Blanchard, 1850 are presented.
Guttulapsyche mayaensis, gen. et sp. nov., a Psychidae from Mexico with unusual larval ethology (Insecta: Lepidoptera: Typhoniinae)
Authors: SOBCZYK THOMAS
Published: August 2021

A new genus and species, Guttulapsyche mayaensis gen. et sp. nov., of Psychidae are described from Mexico. The new taxon shares some characters with Arrhenophaninae and several others with Typhoniinae. Together with Antillonatus sessilis Núñez & Davis, 2016 it is already the second Neotropic species with a complex of characteristics that deviates from the previous understanding of the two subfamilies. The morphology of adults, larva, and pupa is described and illustrated. The larval cases are attached at the distal end, a behaviour that is unique among all known Psychidae. Information on distribution and habitat as well as some ecological data are provided.
microRNA-4458 Regulates Insulin Resistance in Hepatic Cells by Targeting the Insulin-Like Growth Factor 1 Receptor
Authors: Zhou Jingjing , Zhu Wenjuan , Mao Zheng , Li Zhen , Li Xiaoqin , Cui Fan
Published: August 2021

Background: The objective of the research was to investigate the roles of miR-4458 in the regulation of insulin resistance in hepatic cells and to explore the underlying molecular mechanisms. Methods: The blood samples were collected from the T2D patients and the health
controls, and the liver tissues were collected from the DM and control rats. The relationship between IGF1R and miR-4458 was predicted by TargetScan and verified by the dual luciferase reporter gene system. qRT-PCR was used to measure the mRNA expression of miR-4458, IGF1R, G6Pase and PEPCK.
The protein expression of IGF1R, p-AKT and AKT were measured by Western blot analysis. The rat insulin ELISA Kit and glucose Uptake Colorimteric Assay Kit were used to determine the level of serum insulin and the glucose uptake. Results: miR-4458 was high expressed in T2D patients.
We predicted and verified that IGF1R was a direct target of miR-4458, and the mRNA expression of IGF1R was reduced in type 2 diabetes patients. We established the diabetes model (DM) and IR HepG2 cell model, and found that the blood glucose and serum insulin levels were significantly elevated
in the DM group. miR-4458 expression was up-regulated, while the expression of IGF1R and p-AKT, and p-AKT/AKT ratio were reduced in the DM group and IR HepG2 cell model. miR-4458 inhibitor and IGF1R-siRNA significantly decreased the expression of miR-4458 and IGF1R respectively. In comparison
with IR+inhibitor control group, miR-4458 inhibitor increased 2-DG6P content, IGF1R expression, p-AKT expression and p-AKT/AKT ratio, reduced the expression of G6Pase and PEPCK, and all the effects were reversed by down-regulating IGF1R. Conclusion: miR-4458 regulated the insulin resistance
in hepatic cells by regulating the IGF1R/PI3K/AKT signal pathway, which will be a potential target for the treatment of diabetes.
Study on Signal Transduction Pathway of Migration Inhibitory Factor in Angiogenesis of Cervical Cancer
Authors: Zhang Huiming , Xu Hui , Tong Wenjuan
Published: August 2021

Cervical cancer is a common female malignancy worldwide that accounts for the second in women malignant tumor. Macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) is an important tumor promoter that plays an important role in tumor invasion and metastasis. This study explored MIF and PD98059’s
effect on cervical cancer Siha cells to analyze MIF impact on VEGF expression, so as to discuss whether MIF may influence cervical cancer angiogenesis through ERK/MAPK signaling pathway. MIF and PD98059 were adopted to treat Siha cells. Western blot were done to measure MIF, ERK1, and VEGF
expression. MTT was applied to determine cell proliferation. ERK1 and VEGF were positively expressed in cells. Cell proliferation was elevated gradually at 24, 48, and 72 h in MIF group and declined in PD98059 group (P < 0.05). ERK1 and VEGF protein significantly elevated after treated
by MIF for 48 hours and reduced after intervened by PD98059 for 48 h (P <0.05). ERK1 and VEGF obviously downregulated in both MIF and PD98059 treatment groups without difference between two groups (P <0.05). MIF, ERK1, and VEGF is expressed in cervical cancer SiHa cells.
MIF promotes cell proliferation through regulating ERK/MAPK signaling pathway to upregulate ERK1 and VEGF expression.
Genesis of Easterly Waves over the Tropical Eastern Pacific and the Intra-Americas Sea
Authors: Torres Victor M. , Thorncroft Chris D. , Hall Nicholas M. J.
Published: August 2021

This paper explores a new mechanism for in situ genesis of easterly waves (EWs) over the tropical eastern Pacific Ocean (EPAC). Using an idealized primitive equation model, it is shown that EWs can be triggered by finite-amplitude transient heating close to the midlevel jet at about 15°N over the EPAC and intra-Americas sea region. The atmospheric response to heating initiates EWs downstream, showing an EW structure within 4 days, with a wavelength and propagation speed of about 2000 km and 4.6 m s−1, respectively, resembling EWs described in the literature. The most sensitive location for EW initiation from finite-amplitude transient heating is located over the northern part of South America and extends to the EPAC. The closer the heating is to the jet, the bigger the response is. A stratiform heating profile is the most efficient at triggering EPAC EWs. Comparisons of simulated EWs over the EPAC and West Africa reveal similar structures but with a shorter wavelength and much weaker amplitudes over the EPAC. EPAC EWs are dominated by horizontal tilts against the shear on the equatorial side of the jet, consistent with barotropic growth, with weaker low-level amplitudes relative to those seen over West Africa. These differences arise from differences in the mean state EPAC having a shorter and weaker midlevel jet with less baroclinicity.
A Statistical Analysis of High-Frequency Track and Intensity Forecasts from NOAA’s Operational Hurricane Weather Research and Forecasting (HWRF) Modeling System
Authors: Zhang Zhan , Zhang Jun A. , Alaka Ghassan J. , Wu Keqin , Mehra Avichal , Tallapragada Vijay
Published: August 2021

A statistical analysis is performed on the high-frequency (3⅓ s) output from NOAA’s cloud-permitting, high-resolution operational Hurricane Weather Research and Forecasting (HWRF) Model for all tropical cyclones (TCs) in the North Atlantic Ocean basin over a 3-yr period (2017–19). High-frequency HWRF forecasts of TC track and 10-m maximum wind speed (Vmax) exhibited large fluctuations that were not captured by traditional low-frequency (6 h) model output. Track fluctuations were inversely proportional to Vmax, with average values of 6–8 km. The Vmax fluctuations were as high as 20 kt (10.3 m s−1) in individual forecasts and were a function of maximum intensity, with a standard deviation of 5.5 kt (2.8 m s−1) for category-2 hurricanes and smaller fluctuations for tropical storms and major hurricanes. The radius of Vmax contracted or remained steady when TCs rapidly intensified in high-frequency HWRF forecasts, consistent with observations. Running-mean windows of 3–9 h were applied at synoptic times to smooth the high-frequency HWRF output to investigate its utility to operational forecasting. Smoothed high-frequency HWRF output improved Vmax forecast skill by up to 8% and produced a more realistic distribution of 6-h intensity change when compared with low-frequency, instantaneous output. Furthermore, the high-frequency track forecast output may be useful for investigating characteristics of TC trochoidal motions.
Non-invasive Fungal Sinusitis as a Complication of a Steroid-Eluting Stent Following Endoscopic Sinus Surgery: A Case Report
Authors: Shipman Paige , Highland Julie , Witt Benjamin , Alt Jeremiah
Published: August 2021

Objective:

Steroid eluting stents have proven to be a highly useful adjunctive therapy for chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) and play an important role in the treatment of many inflammatory diseases of the sinuses. Few reports of adverse events were reported in clinical trials and are described in the literature. However, we describe the first known case of an immunocompetent patient developing non-invasive fungal tissue infection as a sequelae of stent-related tissue necrosis requiring surgical debridement.

Methods:

A 69-year-old immunocompetent male with CRS had Propel™ stents placed in the bilateral frontal sinus outflow tracts during revision endoscopic sinus surgery. He presented 2 weeks post-operatively with severe facial pain without vision changes, fevers, mental status changes, or evidence of cranial neuropathies. On rigid nasal endoscopy, necrotic tissue and gross fungal elements were visualized in the left frontal sinus outflow tract at the area of previous steroid stent position.

Results:

The patient was taken for urgent endoscopic sinus surgery and debridement given significant symptoms and concern for invasive fungal infection. A revision left maxillectomy, ethmoidectomy, and draf 2b frontal sinus drillout were performed, with healthy bleeding tissue encountered beneath necrotic tissue. Pathology revealed tissue necrosis, exudative lumenal debris, and extensive fungal elements with no evidence of tissue invasion, and cultures yielded growth of aspergillus niger. The patient’s symptoms improved significantly on post-operative day 1, he had normal post-operative changes at 2 weeks following debridement, and had no recurrence of fungal infection with complete healing at 4 months.

Conclusion:

While likely rare, steroid-eluting stents may pose a risk of saprophytic tissue infection as a result of tissue necrosis and local immunosuppression. Caution should be taken in using these devices in immunocompromised patients.
The relevance of budget transparency for development
Authors: Cuadrado-Ballesteros Beatriz , Bisogno Marco
Published: August 2021

This study aims to highlight the relevance of budget transparency in improving human development and fill the gap in the literature, which has traditionally considered the concept of development in economic terms. Here, development refers to levels of knowledge, the possibility of enjoying a long and healthy life and having a decent standard of living. Improving human development is the main point of interest in the assessment of public policy outcomes and this study is focussed on one specific policy, namely, budget transparency. By using a pool of 110 countries for the years 2008, 2010, 2012, 2015 and 2017, the empirical results demonstrate a positive effect of the open budget index on the human development index, suggesting that budget transparency is a good way to improve levels of human development. These findings are essential not only for academic debate but also for practitioners because they show transparency as a relevant tool to improve human development.

Points for practitioners

Budget transparency is a relevant tool to improve human development. Transparency may improve the quality of life through a better quality of governance. The central roles played by transparency and participation coupled with accountability have been confirmed. The complexity of the concept of human development involves, among other things, disclosing information regarding the public policies. Examining budgets, guaranteeing their transparency as well as the transparency of the budgeting process, is highly recommended to improve human development.
The ‘Homeland Security Moment’ in International Politics: Implications for the Third World
Authors: Singh Shailza
Published: August 2021

This article attempts to understand the emergence of the idea of homeland security in the US in the recent past, the attendant security praxis, and its impact on the Third World security (predicament). It maps the journey of the idea of homeland security—from a US-specific domestic policy framework to a globalizing security framework. It is argued that in the emerging security understanding, the concerns of Third World countries, which were getting some global attention in the past few decades through the concepts like human security and societal security, have been marginalized. By referring to security-related policy changes in other countries, the article explains the US efforts to export this new understanding of security to the Third World and its long-term implications. As the homeland security paradigm and practices make their way into many developing countries, understanding the ‘homeland security moment’ from the perspective of the latter is of crucial significance to gauge their security predicament in the newer context.
Gender Differences in Fields of Study: The Role of Comparative Advantage for Trajectory Choices in Upper Secondary Education
Authors: van der Vleuten Maaike
Published: August 2021

Absolute ability/achievement does not explain gender differences in educational trajectories, but the role of comparative advantage (i.e., being better in one subject compared to another) has received much less attention. To study this, longitudinal data collected among 1,352 individuals (age 15-16) in upper secondary education in the Netherlands are used. Multinomial path analyses showed that compared to girls, boys are on average 15% more likely to enter the most male-typical trajectory and 16% less likely to enter the most female-typical trajectory. Although having a comparative advantage affects trajectory choices, it does not explain gender differences in trajectory choices in secondary education.
Conservation of Melody With Varied Harmonizations: A Comparison of Adult Listeners From China and the United States
Authors: Liu Jing
Published: August 2021

This study replicates and extends previous research investigating young adults’ ability to conserve melody under different harmonic contexts by comparing Chinese listeners ( N = 131) with U.S. listeners (Liu, 2018; N = 61). Using identical stimuli and procedures from the original study, participants listened to 34 pairs of melodic examples and identified whether the melody presented was the “same or different.” Results indicated Chinese listeners had a well-developed ability to identify the sameness of a melody when it was presented (a) alone, then with harmony (Task I); (b) with harmony, then with different harmony (Task II); and (c) with harmony, then alone (Task III, a reversed task of Task I). Overall, Chinese participants performed significantly better than U.S. participants. Corroborating prior research, music reversibility was also observed among Chinese listeners, as demonstrated by successful responses in two reversed music tasks (Task I and Task III). The performance differences on Task II between listeners with low versus no level of mastering reversibility regardless of country of origin and between Chinese listeners only with a high and a low level of reversibility further support the concept of music reversibility and its role in musical thinking.
Educational Opportunity and the Carceral System: Sentencing Policies and Black Men's College Enrollment
Authors: Britton Tolani
Published: August 2021

This paper explores whether the Federal Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act of 1994, which increased the disproportionate incarceration of young Black men, was also associated with changes in the likelihood of college enrollment for Black men in states with more punitive sentencing laws. I measure the association between the introduction of state sentencing laws, such as truth-in-sentencing (TIS), and college enrollment. These laws could have decreased the likelihood of Black male college enrollment by removing these men from the population in the years in which they would have attended college. To explore the impact of the passage of sentencing laws on college enrollment, I carry out a differences-in-differences analysis and an event study from 1992 to 2000. In the years after TIS passed, significant decreases occurred in the likelihood of college enrollment for Black young men when compared to the college enrollment of young White men in TIS states. However, there were no significant decreases when comparing college enrollment of young Black men in TIS states with enrollment for young Black men in non-TIS states. With respect to state sentencing schemes, voluntary guidelines, determinate sentences, presumptive recommended sentences, presumptive determinate sentences, and recommended determinate sentences were associated with a lower likelihood of college enrollment for Black men.
Design of double teeth metallic card clothing for the high-efficiency carding process by computational fluid dynamics
Authors: Gu Weihua , Li Fuguo , Gao Qinchao , Zhuo Chengzhi , Lu Zhong
Published: August 2021

The design of metallic card clothing, which is one of the most important devices in the textile industry, has always been based on operational experience. With the development of types of fibers and the requirements for the quality of yarns, those principles concluded by engineers seem to be losing their efficiency. Recent research found that airflow played an important role in the card process, which means airflow should be carefully studied. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulation greatly helps in the analysis of airflow because the gauge between carding elements is too narrow to put in any measuring device. In the present study, with the help of CFD simulation, the air around different carding clothing with varied tooth depth was analyzed. It was concluded that the carding efficiency improvement in card clothing with lower tooth depth may be related to more concentrated air velocity at the tooth tips. This resulted in more probabilities that fibers would get through the cylinder surface at the teeth tips, so that the fibers could be caught by flat-top needles more efficiently. With this assumption, a new generation of card clothing called “double teeth” containing two teeth in a single section has been invented. The new configuration design of card clothing was then applied in several spinning mills on an industrial scale for experiments. The results showed about a 30% improvement in production at the same quality level as conventional card clothing, which implied the usefulness of the newly applied principles related to airflow. Despite the difficulty in the study of the complex carding process, the new airflow analysis method has shown an optional and worthwhile way of thinking that could make a difference in future research in the textile industry.
Introduction: cooperation, conflict, and interaction in the global commons
Authors: Riddervold Marianne , Newsome Akasemi
Published: August 2021

The global commons – the High Seas, Antarctica, the Atmosphere, and Outer Space – are resource domains outside the authority of states. Historically, the global commons have been practically inaccessible and thus rarely subject to sovereignty claims and international regulations. With technological advances and environmental developments, the global commons have become a key site for international relations (hereinafter IR). In spite of often competing claims from state and non-state actors to these areas, the global commons have remained mainly cooperative. This is not what one would expect from most IR perspectives in a close to anarchical environment and a volatile geopolitical international environment. This Special Issue sets out to address this puzzle by asking: To what extent and why is there little conflict in the global commons? For this purpose, this introduction develops a common framework that distinguishes between three models and corresponding hypotheses of the factors affecting the level of cooperation and conflict in these domains. While two are based on realist and liberal IR perspectives, we draw on constructivism, political theory, and law to develop a third model, called the Human Heritage model. To conclude, this introduction also sums up the findings and discusses their implications for the global commons and IR studies.
Tribalism and Finance
Authors: Kodila-Tedika Oasis , Asongu Simplice A.
Published: August 2021

We assess the correlations between tribalism and financial development in 60 countries using data averages from 2000 to 2010. The tribalism index is used to measure tribalism whereas financial development is measured from perspectives of financial intermediary and stock market developments. The long-term finance variable is stock market capitalisation while short-run variable is private and domestic credit. We find that tribalism is negatively correlated with financial development and the magnitude of negativity is higher for financial intermediary development relative to stock market development. The findings are particularly relevant to African and Middle Eastern countries where the scourge of tribalism is most pronounced.

JEL: E62, H11, H20, G20, O43
Play of children living with HIV/AIDS in a low-resourced setting: Perspectives of caregivers
Authors: Munambah Nyaradzai , Ramugondo Elelwani L , Cordier Reinie
Published: August 2021

Background

Although play is viewed as a childhood occupation that is spontaneous, it can be limited in children with HIV/AIDS. This study explored the perspectives of caregivers from Zimbabwe on the play of children with HIV/AIDS.

Methodology

A descriptive qualitative research approach was used to explore the perceptions of caregivers on play of children living with HIV/AIDS. Fifteen caregivers of children aged 4–9 years diagnosed with HIV/AIDS were purposively sampled. Two interviews were carried out with each of the caregivers. Findings were analysed thematically.

Findings

Four major themes were generated from the study: ‘Ubuntu is no more’, ‘Survival is primary (chikuru kurarama)’, ‘Play affirms that my child is still like other children’ and ‘More is required for this child’. Although issues of survival were paramount, caregivers were able to highlight the importance of play in affirming childhood, identifying the specific needs for play of children with HIV/AIDS.

Conclusion and Significance

Play, like all other human occupation, is contextually situated. Poverty and health status are key in shaping how families prioritise play. However, the ability to play for a child with HIV/AIDS also seems to mitigate stigma and may disrupt the ‘HIV is death’ narrative.
Impacts of Light Rail Transit on Labor Participation and Housing Affordability in the U.S.: Longitudinal Analysis Using Propensity Score Matching
Authors: Kim Keuntae , Park Keunhyun , Nelson Arthur C.
Published: August 2021

Planners and planning scholars have debated the effects of public transit on changes in various employment outcomes. However, few studies have tried to understand how public transit affects employment changes in a community while accounting for housing costs at the same time. As an update to and methodological advance on early studies, this study aims to measure light rail transit (LRT) systems’ impacts on the change in labor participation and housing affordability. This study uses the decennial Census and 5-year American Community Survey (ACS) data at the block group level and conducts propensity score matching in 12 selected LRT systems across the U.S. opened between 2000 and 2010. By comparing growth rates of the average weeks worked and the median gross rent between treatment and control groups, the results show that an introduction of an LRT station increases the average weeks worked—a measure of labor participation—while not raising the median gross rent. Further analysis also shows that the increased average weeks worked after operation of LRT systems is a result of an increase in the percentage of full-time and year-round workers and a decrease in the proportion of part-time and part-year workers. Ultimately, the findings provide planners and policymakers with a better understanding of the effects of LRT systems on the economic stability of urban communities.
Risk Evaluation for Conflicts between Crossing Pedestrians and Right-Turning Vehicles at Intersections
Authors: Xin Feifei , Wang Xiaobo , Sun Chongjing
Published: August 2021

In recent years, conflicts between crossing pedestrians and right-turning vehicles have become more severe at intersections in China, where right-turning vehicles are usually not controlled by traffic signals. This study proposes a quantitative method for evaluating the conflict risk between pedestrians and right-turning vehicles at intersections based on micro-level behavioral data obtained from video detection. A typical intersection in Shanghai was selected as the study site. In total, 670 min of video were recorded during the peak hours from 7:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m on one day. After processing the video information, vehicle and pedestrian tracking data were obtained, including the velocity, acceleration, deceleration, time, and location coordinates. Based on these data, several conflict indicators were proposed and these indicators were extracted automatically using MATLAB to identify pedestrian–right-turning vehicle conflicts and to determine the severity of the conflicts identified. This process identified 93 examples of such conflicts. The conflict risks were quantitatively classified using the K-means fuzzy clustering method and all of the conflicts were assigned to five grades. The characteristics of the conflict distribution and the severity of different types of conflict were also analyzed, which showed that conflicts on different areas on the crosswalk differed in their severity. Based on the conclusions, practical traffic management and control measures are proposed to reduce the risk on pedestrian crossings.
Non-periodic motion reduction in globoidal cam with roller follower mechanism
Authors: Yousuf Louay S
Published: August 2021

Non periodic motion has been investigated using power spectrum analysis of Fast Fourier Transform (FFT), Lyapunov exponent parameter using Wolf algorithm, and Phase-plane mapping. A multi degrees of freedom (spring-damper system) are added at the end of the follower stem to reduce the nonlinear dynamic behavior of the follower. In the experiment setup, data acquisition technique with signal processing approach is used through an infrared camera device to capture the nonlinear dynamic movement of the follower. A numerical simulation is done using SolidWorks software. An OPTOTRAK/3020 with an infrared camera device is used to track the follower position experimentally. The peak of nonlinear response of the roller follower is reduced by (20.89%, 47.76%, 58.2%, and 67.16%) after using multi degrees of freedom systems.
Assessing the Prospects of Agricultural Sustainability in Central Brahmaputra Floodplain Environment of Darrang District, Assam
Authors: Nath Pabitra Kumar , Saikia Chinmoy Raj
Published: August 2021

Ensuring agricultural sustainability with escalating population is a real challenge before humanity. At present, heightened demand of state’s rich farmland for non-agricultural activities is posing a pressing need for assessing the prospects of agricultural sustainability. Being a part of central Brahmaputra floodplain in Assam, Sipajhar revenue circle of Darrang district has experienced extraordinary population pressure on land resources over time, which leads to vulnerability of agro-ecological conditions. As per census report, the circle has witnessed 108% increase of population over 40 years. The circle with diverse agriculture and its allied activities has borne the brunt of population pressure in some caste-community concentration areas. The present study assesses the prospects of agricultural sustainability across the gram panchayats of the circle on the basis of six sustainability indicators, namely castes and communities; agriculture and allied practices; spatial pattern of crop productivity; agricultural input–output relation; agro-ecological conditions; and sustainable methods of agriculture selected from social, economic and ecological dimensions of sustainable development. After synthesising these indicators, prospects of agricultural sustainability have been assigned to three groupings of gram panchayats in the circle. This investigation is also intended to provide a rationale for future orientation of agricultural planning in laggard districts like Darrang of Assam.
Establishing Standards for the Assessment and Decontamination Cleanup of Opioid-Contaminated Properties
Authors: Polkabla Michael A.
Published: August 2021

A case is described where a property was used as a clandestine opioid (fentanyl and carfentanil) processing, handling, pill pressing, and packaging site. These activities resulted in potentially lethal opioid residue contamination which remained after police intervention. This case details the environmental assessment and sampling procedures, findings, and decontamination processes that were used to mitigate the property. A safe re-occupancy criterion was established and used as the basis for adoption of a state standard for residential cleanup in California. Regulatory hurdles and key lessons are presented so that others may consider development of similar public health policy. Involvement of public health departments in the assessment and cleanup of sites contaminated with opioids and other illicit drugs and the development of standards for cleanup and worker protection is an important and yet often overlooked public health measure.
Teaching Gender Competency with Men in Mind: Foundations of an Online Training Program for Mental Health Practitioners
Authors: Seidler Zac E. , Wilson Michael J. , Owen Jesse , Oliffe John L. , Ogrodniczuk John S. , Kealy David , Rice Simon M.
Published: August 2021

Recognition of the importance of mental health practitioners’ enactment of ‘gender competency’ when working with men is growing. This article describes the development and theoretical background to a novel online training program for practitioners, called Men in Mind. The training focuses on men’s gender socialization, engaging male clients in therapy, and responding effectively to men’s depression and suicidality. The content of the training was derived from a comprehensive review of available literature, structured into modules with measurable learning outcomes via learning design principles. The training employed a range of andragogic principles and tools (e.g., character vignettes, reflective exercises). Plans for evaluation via a controlled trial, alongside scaling, and implementation are described.
Association Between Hindfoot Alignment and First Metatarsal Rotation
Authors: Bakshi Neil , Steadman Jesse , Philippi Matthew , Arena Christopher , Leake Richard , Saltzman Charles L. , Barg Alexej
Published: August 2021

Background:

The association between forefoot and hindfoot position for planus and cavus feet is fundamental to the treatment of these deformities. However, no studies have evaluated the association between hindfoot alignment and first metatarsal (M1) axial rotation. Understanding this possible relationship may help to understand the deformity and improve patient care. The purpose of this study is to determine a correlation between hindfoot alignment and metatarsal rotation as assessed by weightbearing computed tomography (WBCT).

Methods:

Patients who underwent weightbearing plain radiography (WBPR) and WBCT between 2015 and 2018 were evaluated. Hindfoot alignment was measured with the calcaneal moment arm (CMA). M1 rotation was measured using the Kim and Saltzman angles. Patient subgroups were created according to the severity of valgus/varus hindfoot alignment. Statistical analyses were performed to evaluate for association between variables.

Results:

Among the 196 patient feet included in the study, the average CMA was 6.0 ± 16.2 mm. The average Kim and Saltzman angles were 7.7 ± 12.9 degrees and 2.8 ± 13.1 degrees, respectively. The average Meary angle was 182.0 ± 11.9 degrees. A moderately strong association was found between the CMA and the Saltzman ( r = 0.641, P < .01) and Kim angles ( r = 0.615, P < .01). Hindfoot valgus was associated with M1 pronation and hindfoot varus with M1 supination. Additionally, inverse relationships between the Meary angle and the Saltzman ( r = −0.600, P < .01) and Kim angles ( r = −0.529, P < .01) were identified.

Conclusion:

In this well-defined cohort, we found substantial correlation between hindfoot alignment and M1 rotation. Hindfoot valgus was associated with M1 pronation, and hindfoot varus was associated with M1 supination. Surgeons correcting cavovarus/planovalgus deformities should be aware of this association and evaluate the need for first-ray derotation.

Level of Evidence:

Level III, retrospective cohort study.
Fathers’ Involvement in Rearing Children With Profound Intellectual and Multiple Disabilities
Authors: Sato Naho , Araki Akiko
Published: August 2021

The aim of this study was to explore father’s involvement in rearing a child with profound intellectual and multiple disabilities (PIMD). In-depth, semi-structured interviews were conducted with seven fathers in Japan, and the data were analyzed using a qualitative inductive method. The relationship between the parents, in the context of childrearing, influenced father’s involvement with their child with PIMD. Fathers improved their self-confidence in childrearing by discussing and sharing about their child’s conditions and caregiving approaches with their spouse. Moreover, fathers’ experience of being acknowledged and entrusted by their spouse with childrearing motivated and enhanced their involvement. On the contrary, fathers struggled with concerns regarding their family’s future, the balance between childrearing and work, and their own health status. The current findings contribute to nurses’ understanding of father’s involvement in childrearing a child with PIMD and the development of support focusing on the parental dyadic relationship and coparenting behavior.
Ultra-wide bandgap in active metamaterial from feedback control
Authors: Bera Kamal K , Banerjee Arnab
Published: August 2021

To widen the attenuation bandwidth in a mass-in-mass metamaterial chain, active feedback control is employed within the unit cell. The optimal control via Linear Quadratic Regulator is used to ensure the stability of the solution as well as adaptive tuning of the system. The key concept is to obtain a wider bandwidth by reducing the displacement amplitude of the outer mass of each unit of the metamaterial. Transmittance for finite number of units and dispersion diagram for infinitely long metamaterial chain are obtained using the backward-substitution method and Bloch–Floquet’s theorem, respectively. Results evidenced that an ultra-wide uninterrupted attenuation band starting from very low free wave frequency can be obtained. The dispersion diagram primarily depends on the frequency ratio of the resonating unit with the external main unit. The effect of the mass ratio is insignificant while active feedback control is implemented. This unique phenomenon implies that for a very low mass ratio also a wider bandwidth can be achieved. This enables to design a lightweight structure having wider bandwidth in low-frequency regime.
Neurobiological Basis of Reinforcement-Based Decision-Making in Adults With ADHD Treated With Lisdexamfetamine Dimesylate
Authors: Ivanov I. , Newcorn J. H. , Krone B. , Li X. , Duhoux S. , White S. F. , Schulz K. P. , Bédard A. C. V. , Pedraza J. , Adler L. A. , Blair R. J.
Published: August 2021

Background: The objective of this study was to examine changes in the activation of the brain reward system following treatment with lisdexamfetamine (LDX) vs. placebo (PL) as a function of clinical improvement in attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) symptoms. Methods: Twenty adults with ADHD were included in a randomized cross-over study. Participants underwent two functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) scans, after receiving 3 to 5 weeks of treatment with both LDX and PL. During scanning, participants performed the passive-avoidance learning task to assess reward-related learning using computational variables (e.g., estimated value and prediction error). Pre-treatment to post-treatment symptom change was assessed via the ADHD Rating Scale (ADHD-RS). The imaging contrasts were Object Choose or Object Refuse during the object choice component of the task, modulated by expected value (reward vs. nonreward cue), and Reward vs. Punishment during feedback, modulated by prediction error (expected vs. actual outcome). To address the primary objective, we performed group-level mass univariate analyses between pre-treatment to post-treatment percent change of the ADHD-RS total scores and the four contrast images under the choice and feedback conditions, with significance set at a whole-brain voxel-wise threshold of p < .05 with family-wise error (FWE) correction and an extent (cluster) threshold of 50 contiguous voxels. Results: Improvement in ADHD symptoms was accompanied by significant increases of brain activation during the Object Refuse, Reward and Punishment contrasts in a widespread network including left caudate and putamen, and right orbitofrontal cortex (i.e., reward-related signaling) and left middle frontal, superior frontal, and precentral gyri (i.e., executive control). Conclusions: These findings are the first to show that the increase in responsiveness of systems engaged in reward processing with LDX treatment is positively related to symptom improvement. Results support the hypothesis that LDX treatment may restore balance to dysfunction (e.g., hypoactivation) within the brain reward circuitry in adults with ADHD.
The Effect of Waiters’ Occupational Identity on Employee Turnover Within The Context of Michelin-Starred Restaurants
Authors: Jerez Jerez Maria Jesus , Melewar T C , Foroudi Pantea
Published: August 2021

Although restaurants employ a high number of employees across the United Kingdom, accounting for 4.5% of total U.K. employment, this figure masks the relatively high degree of employee turnover. There is limited information about work engagement and turnover among waitering staff (servers). This study analyzed which antecedents (e.g., employer brand, extraversion, and stereotype) impact servers’ occupational identity, and how this relationship affects work engagement and employee turnover within a theoretically informed conceptual framework. A sample of servers in London based Michelin-starred restaurants was used (N = 398). Although extraversion and stereotype reactance were not found to be relevant to occupational identity, employer brand was. The notion that the construction of occupational identity has consequences for work engagement and employee turnover was supported, as positive relationships were found. This research has practical implications for restaurant management strategy, and informs further investigations within the field.
Joint contact stress improves in dysplastic hips after periacetabular osteotomy but remains higher than in normal hips
Authors: Goetz Jessica E , Thomas-Aitken Holly D , Sitton Sean E , Westermann Robert W , Willey Michael C
Published: August 2021

Aim:

The purpose of this study was to use computational modeling to determine if surgical correction of hip dysplasia restores hip contact mechanics to those of asymptomatic, radiographically normal hips.

Methods:

Discrete element analysis (DEA) was used to compute joint contact stresses during the stance phase of normal walking gait for 10 individuals with radiographically normal, asymptomatic hips and 10 age- and weight-matched patients with acetabular dysplasia who underwent periacetabular osteotomy (PAO).

Results:

Mean and peak contact stresses were higher ( p < 0.001 and p = 0.036, respectively) in the dysplastic hips than in the matched normal hips. PAO normalised standard radiographic measurements and medialised the location of computed contact stress within the joint. Mean contact stress computed in dysplastic hips throughout the stance phase of gait (median 5.5 MPa, [IQR 3.9–6.1 MPa]) did not significantly decrease after PAO (3.7 MPa, [IQR 3.2–4.8]; p = 0.109) and remained significantly ( p < 0.001) elevated compared to radiographically normal hips (2.4 MPa, [IQR 2.2–2.8 MPa]). Peak contact stress demonstrated a similar trend. Joint contact area during the stance phase of gait in the dysplastic hips increased significantly ( p = 0.036) after PAO from 395 mm2 (IQR 378–496 mm2) to 595 mm2 (IQR 474–660 mm2), but remained significantly smaller ( p = 0.001) than that for radiographically normal hips (median 1120 mm2, IQR 853–1444 mm2).

Conclusions:

While contact mechanics in dysplastic hips more closely resembled those of normal hips after PAO, the elevated contact stresses and smaller contact areas remaining after PAO indicate ongoing mechanical abnormalities should be expected even after radiographically successful surgical correction.
The effects of JASPER intervention for children with autism spectrum disorder: A systematic review
Authors: Waddington Hannah , Reynolds Jess E , Macaskill Ella , Curtis Sally , Taylor Lauren J , Whitehouse Andrew JO
Published: August 2021

Naturalistic developmental behavioural interventions are promising approaches for young children with, or suspected of having, autism spectrum disorder. Joint attention, symbolic play, engagement and regulation intervention (JASPER) is a well-researched naturalistic developmental behavioural intervention but, to date, no reviews have specifically evaluated its effects. This systematic literature review examined the effects of JASPER intervention and its components on child, parent and educator outcomes. Of the 96 articles screened, 19 were eligible for inclusion in the review. Most studies found that children who received JASPER intervention showed significantly greater improvements in at least one outcome related to child joint attention, joint engagement, play skills and language skills compared to the comparison group. Implementation outcomes for parents and educators were generally positive. There were no consistent predictors or mediators of treatment effects. None of the studies met all of the quality indicators outlined by the Council of Exceptional Children, and the majority of outcome measures were classified as proximal. Overall, JASPER intervention appears promising in improving child outcomes directly targeted during treatment. More research is needed to determine whether it is also effective in improving a wider range of outcomes for children with autism spectrum disorder.

Lay abstract

Interventions which are delivered in natural contexts and use both developmental and behavioural techniques may be helpful for children with, or suspected of having, autism spectrum disorder. Joint attention, symbolic play, engagement and regulation (JASPER) is a type of intervention, which falls under this category. Although several studies have examined the effects of JASPER, this has not yet been summarised in a review. This systematic literature review examined the effects of JASPER intervention, and the techniques that make up JASPER, on child, parent and educator outcomes. We screened 96 articles and, of these, 19 were included in the review. Most studies found that children who received JASPER intervention showed significantly greater improvements in at least one outcome related to child joint attention, joint engagement, play skills, and language skills compared to children who did not receive JASPER intervention. Parents and educators were mostly able to use the JASPER techniques. There were no consistent child, parent, teacher or treatment characteristics that influenced the effects of the JASPER intervention. None of the studies met all of the indicators of being a good quality study outlined by the Council of Exceptional Children. Overall, JASPER intervention appears promising in improving child outcomes directly targeted during treatment. More research is needed to determine whether it is also effective in improving a wider range of outcomes for children with autism spectrum disorder.
Voting for a social Europe? European solidarity and voting behaviour in the 2019 European elections
Authors: Pellegata Alessandro , Visconti Francesco
Published: August 2021

This article investigates whether public preferences for European solidarity are associated with vote choices in the 2019 European elections. After multiple crises, the politicisation of European Union affairs has increased, polarising voters and parties between those favouring the redistribution of risks across member states and those prioritising national responsibility in coping with the consequences of the crises. We expect pro-solidarity voters to be more prone to vote for green and radical-left parties and less prone to vote for conservative and radical-right parties. Testing these hypotheses in 10 European Union countries with original survey data, we find that green and radical-left parties profited from European solidarity voting only in some countries, while being pro-solidarity reduced the likelihood of voting for both moderate and radical-right parties in each sample country.