bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Entre as representações e o autor: uma análise da liberdade sexual em Berlin Alexanderplatz
Authors: Almeida Dawyd Thiago de Oliveira , Costa Thawanny Victoria Santos
Published: July 2021

O presente artigo pretende discutir de que forma a liberdade sexual desenvolvida na Alemanha, durante a República de Weimar, tendo sido Berlim o seu epicentro, é representada no romance alemão Berlin Alexanderplatz (1929), escrito pelo autor e psiquiatra Alfred Döblin. A partir da análise da representação em questão, discutiremos a forma como determinados elementos construídos pelo autor destoam do discurso elaborado e reproduzido sobre a Berlim weimariana, o qual instaurou no imaginário ocidental uma imagem da capital alemã marcada pela devassidão sexual. Também procuramos tecer hipóteses sobre por qual motivo o autor do romance prioriza determinadas formas de retratar a liberdade sexual em detrimento de outras. As suas representações parecem ter sido feitas sobretudo devido a determinadas convicções que ele parece ter tido em vida e transpareceu em suas obras. Utilizando o romance como fonte primária, tentaremos erigir alguns olhares sobre a história de Berlim durante a República de Weimar, contribuindo para a desconstrução do seu mito que já não pode ser mais cabível no desenvolvimento de novas narrativas.
Group size, crowding, and age class composition of the threatened Sambar Rusa unicolor (Kerr, 1792) (Mammalia: Cetartiodactyla: Cervidae) in the semi-arid regions of northeastern Rajasthan, India
Authors: Rai Deepak , Kalpana
Published: July 2021

Grouping characteristics and population growth dynamics of Sambar were studied in Bir Jhunjhunu Conservation Reserve (BJCR) and Bairasar Johad (BJ) in Rajasthan, India from July 2018 to June 2019. Following the scan sampling method, a total of 117 sightings of Sambar (N= 488 individuals) were recorded in BJCR, and 106 in BJ (N= 389 individuals), during 24 fortnightly visits. The data revealed that besides solitary sightings of Sambar, groups ranging from 2–11 and 2–12 individuals were observed in BJCR and BJ, respectively. The overall mean group size and mean crowding of Sambar were 4.2±0.2 S.E. and 5.3 respectively in BJCR, and 3.7±0.2 S.E. and 5.0 respectively in BJ. The sex ratio was skewed towards females. The overall adult male: adult female: fawn ratio was 74.4: 100: 47.1 (N= 488 individuals) in BJCR while the ratio was 92.6: 100: 41.1 (N= 389 individuals) in BJ. As far as the social organization of Sambar is concerned, six types of herds were recorded in the present study.  It is urged that sambar populations outside protected area also need simultaneous strategies for conservation attention.
Status and conservation needs of Cycas pectinata Buch.-Ham. in its natural habitat at Baroiyadhala National Park, Bangladesh
Authors: Hossain M.K. , Hossain M.A. , Hossain S. , Rahman M.R. , Hossain M.I. , Nath S.K. , Siddiqui M.B.N.
Published: July 2021

The widespread cycad Cycas pectinata was first discovered in the Bengal region by William Griffith in Baroiyadhala forest of Chattogram in 1838. In Bangladesh, this species is confined to a few hills at Baroiyadhala, Sitakunda upazila of Chattogram district. Though the Baroiyadhala forests were declared a national park in 2010, the loss of this native gymnosperm from this forest is alarming. The present study aimed to assess the status of C. pectinata populations in its native range, identify the drivers responsible for ongoing losses, and identify locations of C. pectinata occurrence in Baroiyadhala National Park suitable for in situ conservation. A random quadrat survey with 21 sample plots of 100 × 100 m was conducted during April–June 2018 in Baroiyadhala National Park. Population and growth data for C. pectinata were collected from each sample plot, along with observations of disturbances. Four focus group discussions (FGDs) were conducted with adjacent local people. The study revealed presence of 12 C. pectinata individuals per hectare and five seedlings per hectare in the study area, and significant numbers of dead and burned Cycas were also found in some sites. Based on density, five C. pectinata hotspots were identified for in situ conservation programs. Habitat destruction, indiscriminate fire, and unsustainable harvesting of leaves and male and female cones are responsible for rapid declines in C. pectinata populations in its wild habitat. Measures for protection and restoration of the species are creating awareness among the local people about ecological importance of this species; enhancing protection; banning trade of Cycas; creating opportunities of sustainable livelihood for local people to reduce dependency on forests.
On the occurrence of the Himalayan Wolf Canis lupus, L. 1758 (Mammalia: Carnivora: Canidae) in the Gaurishankar Conservation Area, Nepal; its existence confirmed through sign and visual evidence in Rolwaling Valley
Authors: Pandey Bishnu Prasad , Thami Shankar Man , Shrestha Rabin , Chalise Mukesh Kumar
Published: July 2021

The Himalayan Wolf Canis lupus L., a top predator of the Third Pole, is proposed to be of a distinct wolf lineage (C. himalayensis) relative to the Holarctic Grey Wolf as described by mtDNA analyses. A biodiversity survey organized by the Gaurishankar Conservation Area Project (GCAP) has captured images of wolves in three different regions, and the study team has observed wolf scats in five additional regions above the tree line in Rolwaling Valley. Further, interviews with local herders provided evidence of wolf depredation of livestock in the area. The Rolwaling Valley in the Gaurishankar Conservation Area was the study area which was divided into 12, 4 x 4 km (16 km2) grid cells, each supplied with one camera trap operated continuously from June to November 2019 (only 6 out of 12 cameras functioned for the duration of our study). Wolf detections were recorded by camera traps from Yalung Pass (4,956 m), Tsho-Rolpa glacial Lake (4,536 m) and the Dudhkunda ridgeline (5,091 m). The photo capture rate index (PCRI) for wolves was 0.71. Our study reports the first photographic evidence of the Himalayan Wolf in the Rolwaling Valley.
Seasonal prey availability and diet composition of Lesser Asiatic Yellow House Bat Scotophilus kuhlii Leach, 1821
Authors: Bhartiy Shani Kumar , Elangovan Vadamalai
Published: July 2021

Diet is an important factor in understanding bat ecology and conservation. This study  assessed seasonal prey availability and diet composition of the Asiatic Lesser Yellow House Bat Scotophilus kuhlii in various districts of Uttar Pradesh between January 2016 to December 2018. Fecal and insect samples were collected seasonally using sweep nets between 1800 and 1900 h. From each location 20 fecal pellets were selected for analysis and searched for taxonomically recognizable remnants. The analysis revealed that S. kuhlii fed on Coleoptera, Diptera, Hymenoptera, Isoptera, Orthoptera, Odonata, Blattodae, Lepidoptera, and Hemiptera, identified from legs, antennae and wings/elytra in fecal pellets. Seasonal variation in the presence of isolated insect remnants and insect abundance at foraging grounds was observed. Thus S. kuhlii is a voracious feeder and plays an important role as a pest control agent.
Diversity of ants in Aarey Milk Colony, Mumbai, India
Authors: Gawade Akshay , Patwardhan Amol P.
Published: July 2021

Aarey Milk Colony (AMC) is 16km2 of forested area, acts as a buffer to the Sanjay Gandhi National Park, Mumbai. It has gardens, lakes, recreation spots, and a nursery. It also harbors 32 cattle farms, animal husbandry centers. Apart from urbanization and forest degradation, this forest harbors great biodiversity which includes the leopard as a top predator and also lesser-known species of amphibians, reptiles, and arthropods. Considering ants as important bio indicators and the vulnerability of AMC to development plans, a study on the diversity of ants was conducted from January 2016 to May 2016. Four methods were used for data collection of ants—pitfall trap, line-transect, quadrate, and all-out search. A total of 35 species under 24 genera under six subfamilies– Myrmicinae, Formicinae, Ponerinae, Dolichoderinae, Pseudomyrmecinae, and Cerapachyinae were recorded during this study. The Simpson’s diversity index (0.88) for the pit fall trap indicates that the diversity of ants in the AMC is fairly high. This increases the importance of this forest land which is presently facing a mass destruction of trees.
Trajectories of Pain After Cardiac Surgery: Implications for Measurement, Reporting, and Individualized Treatment
Authors: Mori Makoto , Brooks Cornell , Dhruva Sanket S. , Lu Yuan , Spatz Erica S. , Dey Pranammya , Zhang Yawei , Chaudhry Sarwat I. , Geirsson Arnar , Allore Heather G. , Krumholz Harlan M.
Published: July 2021

Background:

Postoperative pain after cardiac surgery is a significant problem, but studies often report pain value as an average of the study cohort, obscuring clinically meaningful differences in pain trajectories. We sought to characterize heterogeneity in postoperative pain experiences.

Methods:

We enrolled patients undergoing a cardiac surgery at a tertiary care center between January 2019 and February 2020. Participants received an electronically-delivered questionnaire every 3 days for 30 days to assess incision site pain level. We evaluated the variability in pain trajectories over 30 days by the cohort-level mean with confidence band and latent classes identified by group-based trajectory model. Group-based trajectory model estimated the probability of belonging to a specific trajectory of pain.

Results:

Of 92 patients enrolled, 75 provided ≥3 questionnaire responses. The cohort-level mean showed a gradual and consistent decline in the mean pain level, but the confidence bands covered most of the pain score range. The individual-level trajectories varied substantially across patients. Group-based trajectory model identified 4 pain trajectories: persistently low (n=9, 12%), moderate declining (initially mid-level, followed by decline; n=26, 35%), high declining (initially high-level, followed by decline; n=33, 44%), and persistently high pain (n=7, 9%). Persistently high pain and high declining groups did not seem to be clearly distinguishable until approximately postoperative day 10. Patients in persistently low pain trajectory class had a numerically lower median age than the other 3 classes and were below the lower confidence band of the cohort-level approach. Patients in the persistently high pain trajectory class had a longer median length of hospital stay than the other 3 classes and were often higher than the upper confidence band of the cohort-level approach.

Conclusions:

We identified 4 trajectories of postoperative pain that were not evident from a cohort-level mean, which has been a common way of reporting pain level. This study provides key information about the patient experience and indicates the need to understand variation among sites and surgeons and to investigate determinants of different experience and interventions to mitigate persistently high pain.
Clinical Impact of the Maximum Mean Value of Home Blood Pressure on Cardiovascular Outcomes: A Novel Indicator of Home Blood Pressure Variability
Authors: Fujiwara Takeshi , Hoshide Satoshi , Kanegae Hiroshi , Kario Kazuomi
Published: July 2021

We assessed the relationship between maximum mean home blood pressure (HBP) and incident cardiovascular disease risks in the general practice population of the J-HOP study (Japan Morning Surge-Home Blood Pressure), which recruited 4231 patients with cardiovascular risk factors (mean [SD] age: 65 [11] years; 53% women; 79% on antihypertensive medications) who measured their HBP in the morning and evening for 14 days. The first day’s HBPs were excluded. The average of morning and evening (the average of morning and evening value [MEave]) BP was defined as the average of all HBP values. The maximum mean HBP was defined as the highest value of mean HBP on one occasion. The variability independent of the mean of MEave BP was assessed. The MEave BP was 134/76 mm Hg; the maximum mean HBP was 156/88 mm Hg. Over a median 3.9-year follow-up (16 762 person-years), 72 stroke, and 76 coronary heart disease events occurred. A Cox regression analysis showed that the hazard ratios of a 1-SD increase in maximum mean home systolic BP (SBP; 95% CI) for incident stroke events were (1) 1.89 (1.23–2.89) including MEave SBP and (2) 1.68 (1.33–2.14) including the variability independent of the mean of MEave SBP. These significant associations were not observed for coronary heart disease events. Adding the maximum mean home SBP to the stroke prediction model significantly improved the discrimination: (1) MEave SBP: C statistics difference (95% CI), 0.019 (0.002–0.038); and (2) variability independent of the mean of MEave SBP: 0.031 (0.008–0.056). The maximum mean HBP could be a useful marker for evaluating the stroke risk of patients.

Registration:

URL:
https://upload.umin.ac.jp
; Unique identifier: UMIN000000894
Intra‐Aortic Balloon Pump as a Bridge to Durable Left Ventricular Assist Device
Authors: Brown Matthew A. , Sheikh Farooq H. , Ahmed Sara , Najjar Samer S. , Molina Ezequiel J.
Published: July 2021

Left ventricular assist devices (LVAD) are increasingly being used as destination therapy in patients with Stage D heart failure. It has been reported that a majority of patients who receive a durable LVAD (dLVAD) present in cardiogenic shock due to decompensated heart failure (ADHF‐CS). As it stands, there is no consensus on the optimal management strategy for patients presenting with ADHF. Bridging with intra‐aortic balloon pumps (IABPs) continues to be a therapeutic option in patients with hemodynamic instability due to cardiogenic shock. The majority of data regarding the use of IABP in cardiogenic shock come from studies in patients presenting with acute myocardial infarction with cardiogenic shock and demonstrates that there is no benefit of routine IABP use in this patient population. However, the role of IABPs as a bridge to dLVAD in ADHF‐CS has yet to be determined. The hemodynamic changes seen in acute myocardial infarction with cardiogenic shock are known to be different and more acutely impaired than those presenting with ADHF‐CS as evidenced by differences in pressure/volume loops. Thus, data should not be extrapolated across these 2 very different disease processes. The aim of this review is to describe results from contemporary studies examining the use of IABPs as a bridge to dLVAD in patients with ADHF‐CS. Retrospective evidence from large registries suggests that the use of IABP as a bridge to dLVAD is feasible and safe when compared with other platforms of temporary mechanical circulatory support. However, there is currently a paucity of high‐quality evidence examining this increasingly important clinical question.
Evidence‐to‐Practice Gap for Preventing Procedure‐Related Acute Kidney Injury in Patients Undergoing Percutaneous Coronary Intervention
Authors: Shoji Satoshi , Sawano Mitsuaki , Sandhu Alexander T. , Heidenreich Paul A. , Shiraishi Yasuyuki , Noma Shigetaka , Suzuki Masahiro , Numasawa Yohei , Fukuda Keiichi , Kohsaka Shun
Published: July 2021

Background

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a common complication of percutaneous coronary intervention. This risk can be minimized with reduction of contrast volume via preprocedural risk assessment. We aimed to identify quality gaps for implementing the available risk scores introduced to facilitate more judicious use of contrast volume.

Methods and Results

We grouped 14 702 patients who underwent percutaneous coronary intervention according to the calculated NCDR (National Cardiovascular Data Registry) AKI risk score quartiles (Q1 [lowest]–Q4 [highest]). We compared the used contrast volume by the baseline renal function and NCDR AKI risk score quartiles. Factors associated with increased contrast volume usage were determined using multivariable linear regression analysis. The overall incidence of AKI was 8.9%. The used contrast volume decreased in relation to the stages of chronic kidney disease (168 mL [SD, 73.8 mL], 161 mL [SD, 75.0 mL], 140 mL [SD, 70.0 mL], and 120 mL [SD, 73.7 mL] for no, mild, moderate, and severe chronic kidney disease, respectively;
P
<0.001), albeit no significant correlation was observed with the calculated NCDR AKI risk quartiles. Of the variables included in the NCDR AKI risk score, anemia (7.31 mL [1.76–12.9 mL],
P
=0.01), heart failure on admission (10.2 mL [6.05–14.3 mL],
P
<0.001), acute coronary syndrome presentation (10.3 mL [7.87–12.7 mL],
P
<0.001), and use of an intra‐aortic balloon pump (17.7 mL [3.9–31.5 mL],
P
=0.012) were associated with increased contrast volume.

Conclusions

The contrast volume was largely determined according to the baseline renal function, not the patients' overall AKI risk. These findings highlight the importance of comprehensive risk assessment to minimize the contrast volume used in susceptible patients.
Myocardial Perfusion Defects in Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Mutation Carriers
Authors: Hughes Rebecca K. , Camaioni Claudia , Augusto João B. , Knott Kristopher , Quinn Ellie , Captur Gabriella , Seraphim Andreas , Joy George , Syrris Petros , Elliott Perry M. , Mohiddin Saidi , Kellman Peter , Xue Hui , Lopes Luis R. , Moon James C.
Published: July 2021

Background

Impaired myocardial blood flow (MBF) in the absence of epicardial coronary disease is a feature of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). Although most evident in hypertrophied or scarred segments, reduced MBF can occur in apparently normal segments. We hypothesized that impaired MBF and myocardial perfusion reserve, quantified using perfusion mapping cardiac magnetic resonance, might occur in the absence of overt left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) and late gadolinium enhancement, in mutation carriers without LVH criteria for HCM (genotype‐positive, left ventricular hypertrophy‐negative).

Methods and Results

A single center, case‐control study investigated MBF and myocardial perfusion reserve (the ratio of MBF at stress:rest), along with other pre‐phenotypic features of HCM. Individuals with genotype‐positive, left ventricular hypertrophy‐negative (n=50) with likely pathogenic/pathogenic variants and no evidence of LVH, and matched controls (n=28) underwent cardiac magnetic resonance. Cardiac magnetic resonance identified LVH‐fulfilling criteria for HCM in 5 patients who were excluded. Individuals with genotype‐positive, left ventricular hypertrophy‐negative had longer indexed anterior mitral valve leaflet length (12.52±2.1 versus 11.55±1.6 mm/m
2
,
P
=0.03), lower left ventricular end‐systolic volume (21.0±6.9 versus 26.7±6.2 mm/m
2
,
P
≤0.005) and higher left ventricular ejection fraction (71.9±5.5 versus 65.8±4.4%,
P≤
0.005). Maximum wall thickness was not significantly different (9.03±1.95 versus 8.37±1.2 mm,
P
=0.075), and no subject had significant late gadolinium enhancement (minor right ventricle‒insertion point late gadolinium enhancement only). Perfusion mapping demonstrated visual perfusion defects in 9 (20%) carriers versus 0 controls (
P
=0.011). These were almost all septal or near right ventricle insertion points. Globally, myocardial perfusion reserve was lower in carriers (2.77±0.83 versus 3.24±0.63,
P
=0.009), with a subendocardial:subepicardial myocardial perfusion reserve gradient (2.55±0.75 versus 3.2±0.65,
P
=<0.005; 3.01±0.96 versus 3.47±0.75,
P
=0.026) but equivalent MBF (2.75±0.82 versus 2.65±0.69 mL/g per min,
P
=0.826).

Conclusions

Regional and global impaired myocardial perfusion can occur in HCM mutation carriers, in the absence of significant hypertrophy or scarring.
Morphological Plaque Characteristics and Clinical Outcomes in Patients With Acute Coronary Syndrome and a Cancer History
Authors: Tanimura Kosuke , Otake Hiromasa , Kawamori Hiroyuki , Toba Takayoshi , Nagasawa Akira , Nakano Shinsuke , Takahashi Yu , Fukuyama Yusuke , Kozuki Amane , Shite Junya , Iwasaki Masamichi , Kuroda Koji , Takaya Tomofumi , Hirata Ken‐ichi
Published: July 2021

Background

Although patients with a cancer history have a 2 to 3 times higher risk for acute coronary syndrome (ACS), the morphological characteristics of ACS culprit plaque in those patients and their relations with clinical outcomes remain unknown.

Methods and Results

This retrospective, multicenter, observational cohort study included consecutive patients with ACS who underwent optical coherence tomography‐guided emergent percutaneous coronary intervention. Patients were categorized into those without a cancer history, those with a cancer history, and those currently receiving cancer treatment. ACS culprit lesions were classified as plaque rupture, plaque erosion, or calcified nodule using optical coherence tomography. Plaque erosion frequency was significantly higher in culprit lesions of patients with current cancer and patients with cancer history than in those of patients without cancer history (56.3% versus 61.7% versus 36.5%). Calcified nodule incidence was significantly higher in patients without cancer history than in patients with current cancer and patients without cancer history (patients with current cancer: 12.4% versus patients without cancer history: 25.5% versus patients without cancer history: 12.6%,
P
<0.001). Cancer history was independently associated with nonplaque rupture (plaque erosion or calcified nodule) in ACS culprit lesions (odds ratio, 4.00;
P
<0.001). Cancer history was independently associated with major adverse cardiovascular events (hazard ratio [HR], 1.98;
P
=0.002). Nonplaque rupture in ACS culprit lesions was independently associated with major adverse cardiovascular events (HR, 1.60;
P
=0.011).

Conclusions

Patients with a cancer history had significantly worse clinical outcomes after ACS than those without a cancer history. Those with a cancer history had significantly higher plaque erosion and calcified nodule incidences in the ACS culprit lesions, which might partly explain their worse clinical outcomes.

Registration

URL:
www.umin.ac.jp/ctr/index.htm
. Unique Identifier: UMIN000038442.
At Preeclampsia Diagnosis, Total Cell‐Free DNA Concentration is Elevated and Correlates With Disease Severity
Authors: Kolarova Teodora R. , Gammill Hilary S. , Nelson J. Lee , Lockwood Christina M. , Shree Raj
Published: July 2021

Background

Placental derived cell‐free DNA (cfDNA), widely utilized for prenatal screening, may serve as a biomarker for preeclampsia. To determine whether cfDNA parameters are altered in preeclampsia, we conducted a case‐control study using prospectively collected maternal plasma (n=20 preeclampsia, n=22 normal) using our in‐house validated prenatal screening assay.

Methods and Results

Isolated cfDNA was quantified, sequenced using Illumina NextSeq 500, and the placental‐derived fraction was determined. Clinical and test characteristics were compared between preeclampsia and controls, followed by comparisons within the preeclampsia cohort dichotomized by cfDNA concentration. Lastly, cfDNA parameters in preeclampsia were correlated with markers of disease severity. Maternal age, body mass index, gestational age at delivery, cesarean rate, and neonatal birthweight were expectedly different between groups (
P
≤0.05). The placental‐derived cfDNA fraction did not differ between groups (21.4% versus 16.9%,
P
=0.06); however, total cfDNA was more than 10 times higher in preeclampsia (1235 versus 106.5 pg/µL,
P
<0.001). This relationship persisted when controlling for important confounders (OR 1.22, 95% CI 1.04–1.43,
P
=0.01). The dichotomized preeclampsia group with the highest cfDNA concentration delivered earlier (33.2 versus 36.6 weeks,
P
=0.02) and had lower placental‐derived fractions (9.1% versus 21.4%,
P
=0.04). Among preeclampsia cases, higher total cfDNA correlated with earlier gestational age at delivery (
P
=0.01) and higher maximum systolic blood pressure (
P
=0.04).

Conclusions

At diagnosis, total cfDNA is notably higher in preeclampsia, whereas the placental derived fraction remains similar to healthy pregnancies. In preeclampsia, higher total cfDNA correlates with earlier gestational age at delivery and higher systolic blood pressure. These findings may indicate increased release of cfDNA from maternal tissue injury.
Nuclear ITS/ETS sequence data indicate the membership of Senecio racemulifer, but not S. acutipinnus and S. graciliflorus, within the genus Jacobaea (Asteraceae, Senecioneae)
Authors: FEI WEN-QUN , LI HUI-MIN , REN CHEN , YANG QIN-ER
Published: July 2021

The sectional placement of Senecio racemulifer (Asteraceae, Senecioneae) and the generic affiliation of S. acutipinnus and S. graciliflorus have been in dispute. Senecio racemulifer was tentatively considered a member of S. sect. Doria, and S. acutipinnus and S. graciliflorus were transferred to the genus Jacobaea as J. acutipinna and J. graciliflora, respectively. Our phylogenetic analyses based on nuclear ITS/ETS sequences indicate that S. racemulifer is deeply nested with Jacobaea species in a well-supported clade while S. acutipinnus and S. graciliflorus are nested with other Senecio species in a well-supported clade. We therefore transfer S. racemulifer to Jacobaea as J. racemulifera but retain S. acutipinnus and S. graciliflorus within Senecio. The names Jacobaea acutipinna, J. graciliflora, J. sect. Graciliflorae and S. ser. Racemuliferae are all synonymized. Karyological characters are reported for the three species. Jacobaea racemulifera, earlier known from the Western Tian-Shan (Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan), is reported here as new to China.
Codonopsis atriplicifolia (Campanulaceae), a new species from western Sichuan, China
Authors: ZHOU YU-YANG , SI YUN-HAO , ZHANG ZHEN , WANG QIANG , YU YAN
Published: July 2021

Codonopsis atriplicifolia (Campanulaceae) from western Sichuan, China, is described here as a new species, which is similar to C. subscaposa in a number of characters. The results of molecular phylogenetic analysis of 25 species of Codonopsis based on chloroplast DNA fragments (matK, petD with petB-petD, rbcL) show that C. atriplicifolia is closely related to C. farreri. In morphology, the new species is distinctly different from the allied species by its linear-lanceolate leaves with subentire to pinnatipartite margins.
Bioacoustics and systematics of Mecopoda (and related forms) from South East Asia and adjacent areas (Orthoptera, Tettigonioidea, Mecopodinae) including some chromosome data
Authors: HELLER KLAUS-GERHARD , BAKER ED , INGRISCH SIGFRID , KORSUNOVSKAYA OLGA , LIU CHUN-XIANG , RIEDE KLAUS , WARCHAŁOWSKA-ŠLIWA ELŻBIETA
Published: July 2021

Bush-crickets (or katydids) of the genus Mecopoda are relatively large insects well-known for their sounds for centuries. Bioacoustic studies in India and China revealed a surprisingly large diversity of sound patterns. We extend these studies into the tropics of South East Asia using integrative taxonomy, combining song analysis, morphology of sound producing organs and male genitalia as well as chromosomes, to get a better understanding of the phylogeny and evolution of this widespread group. Besides the closely related genus Eumecopoda, the genus Mecopoda contains some isolated species and a large group of species which we assign to the Mecopoda elongata group. Some species of this group have broad tegmina and stridulatory files with different tooth spacing patterns and produce continuous, often relatively complicated, trill-like songs. The species of another subgroup with narrower wings have all similar files. Their songs consist of echemes (groups of syllables) which differ in syllable number and syllable repetition rate and also in echeme repetition rate. Our results show that South East Asia harbours a large and certainly not yet fully explored number of Mecopoda species which are most easily and clearly identified by song. Based on the data, five new forms are described: Mecopoda mahindai Heller sp. nov., Mecopoda paucidens Ingrisch, Su & Heller sp. nov., Mecopoda sismondoi Heller sp. nov., Mecopoda niponensis vietnamica Heller & Korsunovskaya subsp. nov., Eumecopoda cyrtoscelis zhantievi Heller subsp. nov. In addition, some taxonomic changes are proposed: Eumecopoda Hebard, 1922 stat. rev., Paramecopoda Gorochov, 2020, syn. nov. of Eumecopoda Hebard, 1922, Mecopoda javana (Johansson, 1763) stat. nov. (neotype selected) with M. javana minahasa Gorochov, 2020 stat. nov., M. javana darevskyi Gorochov, 2020 stat. nov., M. javana buru Gorochov, 2020 stat. nov., Mecopoda macassariensis (Haan, 1843) stat. rev., Mecopoda ampla malayensis Gorochov, 2020 syn. nov., Mecopada ampla javaensis Gorochov, 2020 syn. nov., Mecopoda fallax aequatorialis Gorochov, 2020 syn. nov., the last three are all synonyms of Mecopoda himalaya Liu, 2020, Mecopoda yunnana Liu 2020, stat. nov.
Implicit Bias and Caring for Diverse Populations: Pediatric Trainee Attitudes and Gaps in Training
Authors: Barber Doucet Hannah , Ward Valerie L. , Johnson Tiffani J. , Lee Lois K.
Published: July 2021

The objective of this study was to determine the attitudes, skill level, and preferred educational interventions of pediatric residents related to implicit bias and caring for diverse patient populations. A cross-sectional survey of pediatric residents at a single, large urban residency program was utilized. Surveys were completed by 88 (55%) residents who were 69% female and 35% non-White or mixed race. Almost all residents felt that it was very or extremely important to receive training on health disparities, diverse patient populations, and implicit bias. Self-assessment of skill level revealed that residents felt confident in areas often covered by cultural competency curricula, such as interpreter use, but were less confident in other areas. The top 3 areas identified for further training included implicit bias, working with transgender and gender nonconforming patients, and weight bias. For the majority of diversity and bias-related skills, prior training was significantly correlated with higher skill level ( P < .05).
The Second Wave of COVID-19: Clinical Pharmacy Services During a Field Hospital Operation
Authors: Mazzone Jessica , Shannon Krysta , Rovelli Richard , Kabbani Racha , Amaral Angel , Gilchrist Neil
Published: July 2021

The second wave of COVID-19 emerged in the late fall months in the state of Massachusetts and inadvertently caused a rise in the number of cases requiring hospitalization. With a field hospital previously opened in central Massachusetts during the Spring of 2020, the governor decided to reimplement the field hospital. Although operations were effectively accomplished during the first wave, the reimplementation of the field hospital came with its new set of challenges for operating a satellite pharmacy. Experiences gathered include new pharmacy operation workflows, the clinical role of pharmacy services, introduction of remdesivir treatment, and pharmacy involvement in newly diagnosed diabetes patients requiring insulin teaching. Pharmacy services were successful in adapting to the rapidly growing number in patients with a total of over 600 patients served in a course of 2 months.
Gender budgeting in public financial management: a literature review and research agenda
Authors: Polzer Tobias , Nolte Isabella M , Seiwald Johann
Published: July 2021

Gender budgeting calls for including a gender perspective at all levels of governmental budgetary processes. While the literature on gender budgeting is interdisciplinary and covers a wide geographical range, it remains fragmented. This study uses a literature review to examine the current discourse on gender budgeting and to elicit avenues for future research. Our review shows that studies focus either on emerging economies, such as India or South Africa, or on countries in Europe. Drawing on an analytical framework, we find that most studies scrutinize the ex ante stages of gender budgeting, whereas less is known about the concurrent and ex post stages. Moreover, because little is known about the outcome and impact of gender budgeting, governments do not know what instruments function best in different settings. Given their ex ante focus, most studies on gender budgeting often either remain descriptive or analyse secondary data. Despite scholars from different disciplines contributing to the field of gender budgeting, several ‘blank spots’ remain, particularly in public sector accounting.

Points for practitioners

While current gender budgeting projects tend to focus on the ex ante stage of gender budgeting, future practitioner attention needs to focus on the equally important concurrent and ex post stages, which have received less attention thus far. An increasing number of governments worldwide are implementing gender budgeting projects. Governments need to evaluate the outcome and impact of these projects in a timely fashion, aiming at reducing structural inequalities related to gender. Gender budgeting is willingly adopted in times of prosperity and stability or when the scope of projects appears manageable. To avoid negative impacts on their achievements, policy makers need to put gender budgeting on the political agenda and institutionalize it in times of instability and crisis.
Combining Static and Dynamic Recidivism Risk Information Into the Five-Level Risk and Needs System: A New Zealand Example
Authors: Coulter Darcy J. , Lloyd Caleb D. , Serin Ralph C.
Published: July 2021

Communicating recidivism risk is individualized to each assessment. Labels (e.g., high, low) have no standardized meaning. In 2017, the Council of State Governments Justice Center (CSGJC) proposed a framework for standardized communication, but balancing the framework’s underlying principles of effective risk communication (and merging static and dynamic information) adds complexity. In this study, we incorporated dynamic risk scores that case managers rated among a routine sample of adults on parole in New Zealand ( N = 440) with static risk scores into the Five-Level Risk and Needs System. Compared with static risk only, merging tools (a) enhanced concordance with the recidivism rates proposed by CSGJC for average and lower-risk individuals, (b) diminished concordance for higher-risk individuals, yet (c) improved conceptual alignment with the criminogenic needs domain of the system. This example highlights the importance of attending to the underlying principles of effective risk communication that motivated the development of the system.
Design and implementation of C-MEX S-functions in an Android-based networked control system laboratory
Authors: Cao Lei , Liu Guo-Ping , Hu Wenshan , Bhatti Jahan Zaib
Published: July 2021

The Android-based networked control system laboratory (NCSLab) is a remote control laboratory that adopts an extensible architecture, mainly including Android mobile devices, MATLAB servers, controllers and test rigs. In order to conduct various simulations and experiments more effectively in NCSLab, the first key issue that needs to be solved is to enable users to design their own control algorithms or functional blocks on the Android client, rather than just using the basic block libraries provided by the system. So, this paper proposes and implements a scheme for Android-based compilation of C-MEX S-functions. With this new feature, users can design personalized algorithm according to their requirements in the form of S-functions, which can be called and executed after being compiled by MATLAB server. Finally, through the experiment validation of the three-degree-of-freedom air bearing spacecraft platform, it is proved that the method of Android-based C-MEX S-functions is reliable and efficient, and this scheme well enhances the functionality and mobility of Android-based NCSLab.
Fault reconstruction and fault tolerant control design for a network of dynamical systems
Authors: Zhu Fanglai , Shan Yu , Zhang Jiancheng
Published: July 2021

This paper investigates the problems of the fault reconstruction and fault compensation controller design for a network of dynamic systems in which subsystems are interconnected through each subsystem’s outputs. First, under some assumptions, we prove that the minimum phase system condition, the observer matching condition and the controllability can be kept for the overall system. Second, an augmented descriptor system is constructed and we further prove that the minimum phase system condition, the observer matching condition are kept, and then a reduced-order observer is designed for the augmented system to obtain the estimates of the overall system states and the sensor faults simultaneously. Third, an interval observer is designed for the measured output, and based on the interval observer, an asymptotical actuator fault reconstruction method is developed. Finally, an observer-based H infinite and fault compensation scheme is designed and the stability of the closed-loop system is analyzed. We point out that the closed-loop system satisfies the so-called separation property. In the end, a simulation example is given to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed methods.
The Feasibility of Using Self-Generated Identification Codes in Longitudinal Research With Military Personnel
Authors: Little Melissa A. , Bonilla Gloribel , McMurry Timothy , Pebley Kinsey , Klesges Robert C. , Talcott G. Wayne
Published: July 2021

Self-generated identification codes (SGICs) are strings of information based on stable participant characteristics. They are often used in longitudinal research to match data between time points while protecting participant anonymity. However, the use of SGICs with military personnel has been infrequent, even though military personnel do not have the same privacy protections as civilians. The current paper reports results from two studies that tested the feasibility, reliability, and validity of using a SGIC to collect sensitive longitudinal data among military personnel. In study one, a team of 105 participants was tracked three times over a period of 12 weeks. The 10-item SGIC produced optimal matching over the 12-weeks. In study two, 1,844 participants were randomly assigned to a SGIC group or an anonymous control group, and then were asked to provide information about their alcohol use. Although match rates declined over time, there were no observed differences between study groups in participants’ beliefs about the use of a SGIC. However, differences were identified in reported alcohol use behaviors between the groups, with controls reporting significantly more drinks per week and higher AUDIT-10 scores. While these findings raise potential concerns about using SGICs for epidemiological assessments of highly sensitive problem behaviors, these codes may still be useful in determining group differences in behavior change in randomized studies.
How propagames work as a part of digital authoritarianism: an analysis of a popular Chinese propagame
Authors: Ming-Tak Chew Matthew , Wang Yi
Published: July 2021

“Propagames,” or games with propagandistic content, have been emerging in the past two decades. They operate as a part of digital authoritarianism, together with other forms of new soft propaganda, to legitimate populist authoritarian states around the world. The contemporary democratic struggle against global authoritarian resurgence will require knowledge on how propagames and other digital propaganda work. But knowledge on propagames is seriously lacking compared to the voluminous scholarship on politically progressive, educational, and serious games. This study fills this research gap by analyzing the most popular propagame in China, Kangzhan Online (War of Resistance against Japan Online), and gamers’ reception of it. We begin with theoretical explorations of how to define propagames, how to demarcate them from other games with political content, and what role they play in digital authoritarianism. We eclectically borrow from four frameworks to analyze Kangzhan Online: the dual-process perspective, imaginary world studies, the sociology of collective memory, and the sociology of emotions. Our data include participant observation in the game for 3 months, formal interviews of 30 gamers, informal interviews with dozens of gamers, and documentary data from the official forum and the Chinese game media. The data were collected in 2009, 2010, and 2019.
Empowering School Staff to Implement Effective School Mental Health Services
Authors: Kern Lee , Weist Mark D. , Mathur Sarup R. , Barber Brian R.
Published: July 2021

In this article, we follow up on recommendations from the Division for Emotional and Behavioral Health (DEBH) for providing school mental health (SMH) services by offering additional implementation suggestions for teachers and school staff. We highlight the need for and urgency of SMH services, particularly during and after the pandemic, and also consider broad issues that interfere with the success of SMH. We then provide a number of specific recommendations for integrating the delivery of SMH services within a tiered system of supports that are intended to empower school staff to move toward implementation. Last, we address how effective implementation can be facilitated by strong administrative support along with capacity building.
Longitudinal cortex-wide monitoring of cerebral hemodynamics and oxygen metabolism in awake mice using multi-parametric photoacoustic microscopy
Authors: Sciortino Vincent M , Tran Angela , Sun Naidi , Cao Rui , Sun Tao , Sun Yu-Yo , Yan Ping , Zhong Fenghe , Zhou Yifeng , Kuan Chia-Yi , Lee Jin-Moo , Hu Song
Published: July 2021

Multi-parametric photoacoustic microscopy (PAM) has emerged as a promising new technique for high-resolution quantification of hemodynamics and oxygen metabolism in the mouse brain. In this work, we have extended the scope of multi-parametric PAM to longitudinal, cortex-wide, awake-brain imaging with the use of a long-lifetime (24 weeks), wide-field (5 × 7 mm2), light-weight (2 g), dual-transparency ( i.e., light and ultrasound) cranial window. Cerebrovascular responses to the window installation were examined in vivo, showing a complete recovery in 18 days. In the 22-week monitoring after the recovery, no dura thickening, skull regrowth, or changes in cerebrovascular structure and function were observed. The promise of this technique was demonstrated by monitoring vascular and metabolic responses of the awake mouse brain to ischemic stroke throughout the acute, subacute, and chronic stages. Side-by-side comparison of the responses in the ipsilateral (injury) and contralateral (control) cortices shows that despite an early recovery of cerebral blood flow and an increase in microvessel density, a long-lasting deficit in cerebral oxygen metabolism was observed throughout the chronic stage in the injured cortex, part of which proceeded to infarction. This longitudinal, functional-metabolic imaging technique opens new opportunities to study the chronic progression and therapeutic responses of neurovascular diseases.
Difficulty factors of adrenal venous sampling based on patient characteristics and imaging findings
Authors: Kumasaka Soma , Tokue Hiroyuki , Tsushima Yoshito
Published: July 2021

Background

Primary aldosteronism is one of the most common causes of secondary hypertension. Unilateral primary aldosteronism can be treated with adrenalectomy; therefore, determining laterality is essential, for which adrenal venous sampling is considered the gold standard. However, as catheter insertion and sampling at an appropriate venous point is occasionally difficult, it is a time-consuming procedure.

Purpose

To evaluate the patient characteristics and imaging findings that influence the adrenal venous sampling procedure.

Material and Methods

A total of 69 patients who underwent adrenal venous sampling between January 2013 and December 2017 were retrospectively analyzed. The procedure was considered difficult if the duration was > 142 min (mean ± standard deviation [SD] of procedure time in this study) and/or proper sampling failed. Anatomical factors such as belly diameter, presence of adrenal nodules, diameter of the right adrenal vein and inferior vena cava, ratio of the diameters of the right adrenal vein to diameter of the inferior vena cava, vertical direction of the right adrenal vein, and vertebral level of the right adrenal vein were evaluated as predictive factors on computed tomography.

Results

Fifteen patients (21.7%) were considered difficult cases. The factors associated with difficulty were the long transverse diameter of the belly ( P = 0.004) and high vertebral level of the right adrenal vein ( P = 0.032). No statistical differences were observed in any other factors.

Conclusion

The long transverse diameter of the belly and high vertebral level of the right adrenal vein may prevent completion of the adrenal venous sampling procedure.
Colorectal cancer with first known case of simultaneous bilateral tibial metastases
Authors: Hsu Ta Li , Wu Karl
Published: July 2021

The most common osseous metastatic regions for colorectal cancer are the lumbar and sacral vertebrae and the pelvis. There are few reported cases of isolated solitary tibial metastasis, and simultaneous bilateral solitary tibial metastases in colorectal cancer are even rarer. A 62-year-old female patient was admitted to our inpatient clinic 3 years after receiving initial chemotherapy for a rectosigmoid adenocarcinoma with liver metastasis. The patient complained of left leg pain. Radiographs and magnetic resonance imaging revealed a 3- × 3-cm mass in the right proximal tibia and a 2- × 7-cm mass in the middle third of the left tibia; both were highly suggestive of bone metastases. Bilateral tibial metastases were confirmed after tumor excision and prophylactic open reduction and internal fixation. The postoperative course was relatively uneventful. Colorectal cancer with bone metastases is uncommon, and most metastases are found at a single site in an extremity. We believe this is the first published case of simultaneous bilateral tibial metastases in a patient with colorectal cancer.
A multifunctional plant for a sustainable reuse of marble waste toward circular economy
Authors: La Scalia Giada , La Fata Concetta Manuela , Certa Antonella , Micale Rosa
Published: July 2021

The marble processing cycle involves the production of large quantities of wastes whose disposal represents an economic and environmental concern for marble companies due to the difficulty of identifying suitable landfills and the high transfer costs. In this context, the design of a sustainable industrial plant that allows the reuse of the calcium carbonate (CaCO3) contained in the marble waste is extremely challenging. With this recognition, the main industrial applications of CaCO3 are firstly analyzed in the present work to identify the physical–chemical properties required to CaCO3 in these contexts. Later, different plant solutions are suggested to recover CaCO3 from marble sludge in order to allow its use in industrial applications. The designed industrial plant includes an energy efficient drying phase, which exploits the thermal waste of the exhaust gases produced in a cogeneration section, and a subsequent milling phase. Since marble wastes currently constitute an economic burden for companies and an environmental emergency for the Public Administration, the performed technical–economic analysis shows that its recovery may represent an opportunity of sustainable development for the marble sector.