bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Machine Learning May Be an Alternative to BIPSS in the Differential Diagnosis of ACTH-dependent Cushing Syndrome
Authors: Demir Ahmet Numan , Ayata Deger , Oz Ahmet , Sulu Cem , Kara Zehra , Sahin Serdar , Ozaydin Dilan , Korkmazer Bora , Arslan Serdar , Kizilkilic Osman , Ciftci Sema , Celik Ozlem , Ozkaya Hande Mefkure , Tanriover Necmettin , Gazioglu Nurperi , Kadioglu Pinar
Published: March 2024

Context

Artificial intelligence research in the field of neuroendocrinology has accelerated. It is possible to develop noninvasive, easy-to-use and cost-effective procedures that can replace invasive procedures for the differential diagnosis of adrenocorticotropin (ACTH)-dependent Cushing syndrome (CS) by artificial intelligence.

Objective

This study aimed to develop machine-learning (ML) algorithms for the differential diagnosis of ACTH-dependent CS based on biochemical and radiological features.

Methods

Logistic regression algorithms were used for ML, and the area under the receiver operating characteristics curve was used to measure performance. We used Shapley contributed comments (SHAP) values, which help explain the results of the ML models to identify the meaning of each feature and facilitate interpretation.

Results

A total of 106 patients, 80 with Cushing disease (CD) and 26 with ectopic ACTH syndrome (EAS), were enrolled in the study. The ML task was created to classify patients with ACTH-dependent CS into CD and EAS. The average AUROC value obtained in the cross-validation of the logistic regression model created for the classification task was 0.850. The diagnostic accuracy of the algorithm was 86%. The SHAP values indicated that the most important determinants for the model were the 2-day 2-mg dexamethasone suppression test, greater than 50% suppression in the 8-mg high-dose dexamethasone test, late-night salivary cortisol, and the diameter of the pituitary adenoma. We have also made our algorithm available to all clinicians via a user-friendly interface.

Conclusion

ML algorithms have the potential to serve as an alternative decision-support tool to invasive procedures in the differential diagnosis of ACTH-dependent CS.
Teriparatide as Treatment for Severe Osteoporosis in Lung Transplant Recipients
Authors: Raven Lisa M , Goodall Louise , Center Jacqueline R , Muir Christopher A
Published: March 2024

Osteoporosis and osteopenia are common in lung transplant (LTx) recipients, with a significantly increased incidence compared to other non-lung solid organ transplant patients. Despite high fracture rates, including in patients treated with antiresorptive medications, there are limited data on the use of anabolic treatments in LTx recipients. We present clinical, biochemical and bone mineral density data for 3 patients with severe osteoporosis treated with teriparatide 20 micrograms daily for 18 months post-LTx. Prednisone doses ranged between 5 and 10 mg daily throughout the treatment period. All patients had previously received zoledronate (last dose 12-24 months prior to teriparatide). Bone turnover was monitored repeatedly during treatment in one patient. Following completion of teriparatide, all patients received consolidation treatment with 4 mg zoledronate. Bone density was measured prior and within 6 to 12 months after completion of teriparatide. All 3 patients experienced an increase in bone density at the lumbar spine (median +12%; range, 2%-14%) and total proximal femur (median +8%, range, 8%-10%). No adverse effects were observed. Given that severe osteoporosis is highly prevalent in LTx patients, teriparatide should be further studied as a treatment in this clinical setting. Our cases suggest it is safe and effective.
Infantile Hypothalamic Hamartoma: A Rare Presentation of Isolated Obesity
Authors: Tsumori Mika , Itonaga Tomoyo , Oyake Momoko , Hirano Naoki , Oyama Noriko , Ihara Kenji
Published: March 2024

Hypothalamic hamartomas (HHs) are rare, benign brain tumors or lesions of the hypothalamus that are predominantly identified in cases of epilepsy and central precocious puberty (CPP), whereas isolated manifestations of infantile obesity are atypical. We herein report an 8-month-old boy with severe obesity (Kaup index 26.4 [>100th percentile]) and uncontrollable hyperphagia. His growth chart demonstrated remarkable weight gain that exceeded the length gain in magnitude. Brain magnetic resonance imaging identified a lesion consistent with HH. There were no episodes or clinical findings of epilepsy, CPP, or Cushing disease. Hypothalamic obesity should be considered in the diagnosis even in infants with excessive weight gain due to overeating.
Unleashing the potential of digital twins: a new era with aeronautics 4.0
Authors: Ghita Mezzour , Siham Benhadou , Mariam Benhadou , Abdellah Haddout
Published: March 2024

Abstract* Introduction The aerospace value chain consists of several processes, and digitizing it first requires an assessment of these processes and their ability to be transferred to the fully integrated digital thread perspective of smart factories. A digital thread refers to the continuous flow of data and information related to a product throughout its life cycle, integrating and connecting all aspects of a product’s journey. Within this framework, digital twin technology, an essential element of Industry 4.0, comprises the implementation of a virtual presentation of a physical object, system, or process. It brings together the digital replica not only of the physical attributes but also of the behavioral performance of the physical twin. Methods To achieve a digital thread perspective for aeronautics, a research agenda is proposed, including all breakpoints in the current value chain through a PESTLE Analysis, which defines the value-added areas targeted by this transition to digital technology. An aeronautics 4.0 model Digital Thread Twin Smart Aeronautics D2TSAero is proposed, which provides a new perspective in the aeronautics field by integrating its main ecosystems into an interconnected model made possible by the integration of digital twin agent instances. Proof of Concept A use case that deals with the dependability management of an aircraft fuel distribution system is presented. Based on these results, we can see that the proposed twin model can help in reducing real system parts down time, and it can also improve the management of maintenance across the system life cycle by offering a single source of trust for all stakeholders involved in the digital thread cycle of the real twin. Conclusion A forward-looking perspective on the future of aeronautics with this integrated approach is presented, summarizing all the discussed points and the importance of digital twins in supporting the digitalization of the field.
Kingdom Fungi capabilities as materials for design
Authors: Perez Rodriguez Carolina , Ayala-Garcia Camilo , Rognoli Valentina
Published: March 2024

Background Living organisms such as algae, bacteria, and fungi are used to construct novel materials that offer possibilities for innovation. The article aims to explore mycelial growth and analyze the necessary conditions for its development and durability showing its visual potential as a material to be included in a design project. We have explored the aesthetic and metabolic opportunities offered by some species of filamentous fungi for the integration of this kingdom in the design and production of new materials. Methods Taking processes commonly implemented in biology and adopting them into design processes, we grow filamentous fungi and isolate them into pieces designed to display and ensure their natural development. The process was made through biological science methodology, preparing a PDA culture medium, optimal for the specific growth of these living organisms. The inoculation and incubation of some species of filamentous fungi, mainly of the species Fusarium Proliferatum, was carried out to generate a mother culture, exposing them to stress variables such as changes in temperature, incidence of sunlight, humidity, amount of oxygen received, among others. to generate differences in their morphology and pigmentation. Subsequently, the colonies obtained were transferred to each of the designed and prepared artifacts through spores transferred with a mycological loop. These artifacts were sealed to encapsulate the fungus and wait for the colonization of the piece. Results Perpetuity is evident after nine years of cultivation; the colonies remain in the container preserving their morphological character and the pigmentation presented from the beginning of incubation with a slight variation in the saturation of the colors. Conclusions Depending on the species of fungi used and the stimuli applied by the designer, a wide variety of textures, shapes, and colors can be propitiated, generating new product languages and artifacts where their aesthetic qualities are maintained over time.
An Analysis of the Health Effects of Physical Activity due to Active Travel Policies in Rennes, France
Authors: Fremont Henry , Younkin Samuel , Roué Le Gall Anne , Levine Natalie , Patz Jonathan
Published: March 2024

Background Rennes, a midsize city in France, features many opportunities for active travel. City officials seek to increase walking and cycling by 2030 to improve public health. Physical inactivity, a leading risk factor for premature mortality around the globe, has been shown to be associated with many chronic diseases including heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and cancer. Methods Using the 2018 household travel survey of Rennes residents, we apply the Health-Oriented Transportation statistical model to assess health impacts associated with population-level rates of walking and cycling. We consider two proposed mobility and climate objectives which outline sustainable transportation goals by 2030. These include a shift in transportation mode share to increase walking and cycling trips, as well as a broad reduction in vehicle miles traveled (VMT) across the metropolitan area. Results Our regression analysis demonstrated that factors of household car access and inner-city residency were predictors of prevalence (observed one-day proportion engaging in walking or cycling), participation (weekly proportion), and intensity (mean individual physical activity achieved through walking/cycling) of active travel. Age and education were additionally associated with prevalence. The 2030 mobility objective (mode share: 9% cycle, 35% walk) was associated with a reduction of 1,051 DALYs (disability-adjusted life-years), translating to $73 million USD ($23-$177) in averted costs. The climate objective (10% reduction in VMT) was associated with a reduction of 369 DALYs when replaced entirely by walking and 714 DALYs with cycling, translating to $26 million ($8-$62) and $50 million ($15-$121) saved, respectively. Conclusions Rennes residents experience high participation in active travel, particularly those in the inner city. If residents achieve the city’s active travel goals for 2030, there is potential for a large reduction in health burden and subsequent costs. Reaching these goals may require significant investment in transportation programming and infrastructure to improve active travel opportunities.
The genome sequence of the Brown China-mark moth, Elophila nymphaeata (Linnaeus, 1758)
Authors: Boyes Douglas , Broad Gavin R. , Sivess Laura , Holt Stephanie , Holland Peter W.H. ,   University of Oxford and Wytham Woods Genome Acquisition Lab,   Natural History Museum Genome Acquisition Lab,   Darwin Tree of Life Barcoding collective,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life Management, Samples and Laboratory team,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Scientific Operations: Sequencing Operations,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life Core Informatics team,   Tree of Life Core Informatics collective,   Darwin Tree of Life Consortium
Published: March 2024

We present a genome assembly from an individual female Elophila nymphaeata (the Brown China-mark moth; Arthropoda; Insecta; Lepidoptera; Crambidae). The genome sequence is 734.1 megabases in span. Most of the assembly is scaffolded into 31 chromosomal pseudomolecules, including the Z and W sex chromosomes. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 15.3 kilobases in length. Gene annotation of this assembly on Ensembl identified 12,079 protein coding genes.
The genome sequence of the giant clam, Tridacna gigas (Linnaeus, 1758)
Authors: Li Ruiqi , Li Jingchun , Lopez Jose Victor , Oatley Graeme , Clayton-Lucey Isabelle Ailish , Sinclair Elizabeth , Aunin Eerik , Gettle Noah , Santos Camilla , Paulini Michael , Niu Haoyu , McKenna Victoria , O’Brien Rebecca ,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life Management, Samples and Laboratory Team,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Scientific Operations: Sequencing Operations,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life Core Informatics Team,   EBI Aquatic Symbiosis Genomics Data Portal Team,   Aquatic Symbiosis Genomics Project Leadership
Published: March 2024

We present a chromosomal-level genome assembly from an individual Tridacna gigas (the giant clam; Mollusca; Bivalvia; Veneroida; Cardiidae). The genome sequence is 1,175.9 megabases in span. Most of the assembly is scaffolded into 17 chromosomal pseudomolecules. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 25.34 kilobases in length. Gene annotation of this assembly on Ensembl identified 18,177 protein coding genes.
The genome sequence of the thickback sole, Microchirus variegatus (Donovan, 1808)
Authors: Brittain Rachel , Adkins Patrick , Mrowicki Robert J. , Harley Joanna , Modepali Vengamanaidu ,   Marine Biological Association Genome Acquisition Lab,   Darwin Tree of Life Barcoding collective,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life Management, Samples and Laboratory team,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Scientific Operations: Sequencing Operations,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life Core Informatics team,   Tree of Life Core Informatics collective,   Darwin Tree of Life Consortium
Published: March 2024

We present a genome assembly from an individual female Microchirus variegatus (the thickback sole; Chordata; Actinopteri; Pleuronectiformes; Soleidae). The genome sequence is 724.7 megabases in span. Most of the assembly is scaffolded into 23 chromosomal pseudomolecules. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 17.42 kilobases in length.
On the transcreation, format and actionability of healthcare translations
Authors: Sengupta Medha , Pym Anthony , Hao Yu , Hajek John , Karidakis Maria , Woodward-Kron Robyn , Amorati Riccardo
Published: March 2024

In public-health crises, members of multilingual communities must be able to access, understand, trust and act upon behaviour-change messaging. The role of translators is therefore critical, not only for the relaying of information but also in the transcreation of texts, understood as adaptation to suit the characteristics of an intended audience. Failure to use transcreation may produce messaging that is culturally inappropriate and thus ineffective. This study analyses healthcare resources created by governments in Australia with a view to identifying formatting and other visual features that would benefit from transcreation. A mixed-method approach combined numerical evaluation of four documents using the Patient Education Materials Assessment Tool (PEMAT) and a bottom-up thematic analysis of the way the same texts were discussed by 58 members of a broad range of ethnocultural and linguistic groups in Victoria, Australia. The findings point to a need to go beyond the linguistic aspects of the translation and take into account the discourse organisation, layout, images and cultural appropriateness of health messaging. The implications of applying the PEMAT criteria are not only that start texts will become more accessible and better able to facilitate understanding-based trust relations, but also that translators are well placed to participate in the transcreations that may be required in the various target languages.
Indirect translation explained
Authors: Ameri Saeed , Reza Rezaeian Delouei Mohammad
Published: March 2024

Although largely ignored by earlier researchers or examined only to a limited extent, indirect translation—translation from or for a translation—has come to be recognized as a noteworthy area, which can open a wide field for researchers. It would be fair to assert that it has experienced a significant upswing in research attention in the past few years with the publication of three special issues in the journal Target (Pięta et al., 2022), Translation Studies (Rosa et al., 2017), Perspectives (Davier et al., 2023) and also encyclopedic entries and books (Andre, 2020; Hadley, 2023; Pięta, 2021) and numerous research articles. Despite all efforts so far, “research on indirect translation [is] lagging so far behind other subfields that focus on adjacent phenomena (e.g. retranslation or self-translation […])” (Davier et al., 2023, p. 824). Therefore, the volume under review will considerably contribute to the extant literature. This book, co-authored by renowned scholars of indirect translation and in an accessible style, explores indirect translation across various domains, such as news translation, interpreting, and audiovisual translation, from both theoretical and practical perspectives. As such, it expands beyond the traditional focus on written and literary translation (Pięta et al., 2023). Packed with practical exercises, helpful tips, and effective solutions for learners, this volume is an essential read for translator trainers, trainees, scholars, and researchers of indirect translation. The book comprises seven core chapters, along with an introduction and a conclusion. Each chapter presents learning outcomes and suggests thought-provoking activities, which aim to enhance reader engagement with the text. The book also contains a glossary, which defines key terms for readers.
Perioperative considerations for robotic-assisted thoracic surgery
Authors: Bandopadhyay Rahul
Published: March 2024

Robotic-assisted thoracic surgery is being offered to more patients because it has a number of potential benefits. Awareness of the challenges that this type of surgery brings will allow teams to manage these patients safely in the perioperative period.
PROPOSING SOLUTIONS TO DEVELOP SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE TO ADAPT TO CLIMATE CHANGE USING THE T-FANP MODEL
Authors: Nguyen Hoang Tuan  , Truong Thanh Canh
Published: March 2024

The aim of this study is to propose priority strategies for agricultural development amidst drought in Ninh Thuan province, Vietnam. In the context of drought, the agricultural sector faces significant challenges due to the impact of both natural and socio-economic factors. In order to conduct this research and propose effective strategies, the study utilized the SWOT analysis model via the TOWS matrix, delineating 15 strategies to pinpoint the most fitting approach for the agricultural sector. The study quantified and ranked factors within the SWOT analysis and prioritized strategies using the Fuzzy Analytic Network Process (FANP). The outcomes identified advantageous strategies for agricultural production, emphasizing the evaluation and identification of drought while focusing on market development for economically valuable agricultural products based on primary crops. The step-by-step application of these prioritized strategies aims to contribute to the sustainable development of agricultural production in Ninh Thuan province and facilitate the utilization of a multi-criteria decision-making model in resource and environmental management.
Low-profile Dual-polarized Filtering Antenna with Improved Gain and Impedance Bandwidth using Characteristic Mode Analysis
Authors: Wang Zong-Zhuo , Liu Neng-Wu , Fang Liang
Published: March 2024

A low-profile dual-polarized filtering microstrip patch antenna (MPA) with improved gain and bandwidth is realized without requirement of filtering circuit. Herein, the characteristic mode analysis (CMA) method is adopted to analyze the antenna performances. Initially, the resonant modes of the MPA are deeply analyzed, which indicates that its resonant frequencies of CM1 and CM3 could be moved close to each other by loading slots and shorting pins, thus broadening the impedance bandwidth. Then, the influence of the slots on radiation patterns of the antenna is further studied. The results demonstrate that the non-broadside radiation beam of its CM1 could be reshaped as the broadside beam, and the sidelobe level of its CM3 could be reduced by cutting the slots, leading to the improved gain. After that, the effect of the pins on the gain-response is investigated, It shows that the gain nulls of the MPA could be controlled at both lower and upper bands, especially for the non-filtering scheme. Finally, the proposed dual-polarized antenna is fabricated and tested. The results prove that its impedance bandwidth reaches to about 7.4% with a low-profile of about 0.038 free-space wavelength. Besides, a stable enhanced gain of around 10 dBi is achieved over the operating band.
Rigorous Analysis and Design of Resistor-Loaded Patch Antennas with Flexible Gain for Indoor Radar Sensors
Authors: Yu Shu-Wei , Zhang Xiao , Wu Qiong-Sen , Zhu Lei , Yuan Tao , Hu Xian-Qin
Published: March 2024

A high-precision cavity model of resistor-loaded patch antenna (RLPA) with adjustable gain is proposed and rigorously studied in this article. In our analysis, the loaded resistors are perceived as controlled current sources, thus the RLPA can be solved as a modified cavity model. Accurate expressions of field distribution, input impedance, and radiation patterns are derived in this way, and a gratifying agreement has been achieved between the calculated and simulated results. Based on this approach, RLPAs for indoor motion radar are designed and analyzed. Comprehensive analysis is conducted to reveal the loading effect on radiation gain, radiation efficiency, and quality factor of RLPAs under various circumstances. Through altering the value of the loaded resistance, its radiation gain and coverage range can be flexibly adjusted. Besides, enhanced operating bandwidth and improved performance stability are also achieved due to the loaded resistors. Last but not least, several indoor motion radars based on the proposed patches are carried out and measured, which demonstrates the validity of the proposed method and design.
A Low-power, High-gain and Excellent Noise Figure GaN-on-SiC LNA Monolithic Microwave Integrated Circuit (MMIC) operating at Ka-band for 5G/6G Application
Authors: Dai Zhou , Li Chunyu , Yan Junda , Zhang Tiancheng , Bao Huaguang
Published: March 2024

A 25-40 GHz monolithic low-noise amplifier (LNA) is designed and fabricated with the 100 nm gallium nitride on silicon carbide (GaN-on-SiC) technology. This four-stage-cascade monolithic LNA performs a low DC power consumption of 150 mW and noise figure of 1.6-2.2 dB. Moreover, the gain of 34-37 dB with the continuous wave of more than 2 W over 24 hours can be achieved covering the operating bandwidth. Hence, this state-of-art LNA possesses a great potential to be directly integrated with GaN power amplifiers and other microwave components to realize the high-integration, high-reliability, and high-power RF front-end.
Analysing transnational labour mobility regimes
Authors: Jones Katharine , Piper Nicola , Withers Matt
Published: March 2024

Labour regime analysis is enjoying a resurgence as a way of (re-)centring workers at the heart of questions concerning the organisation of production and social reproduction in the global economy (Baglioni et al, 2022). Migrant labour, and specifically the regulation of migrant labour, is part and parcel of these dynamics yet is often left to the sidelines of labour process studies. Bringing together six papers presented at the 2023 International Labour Process Conference at Strathclyde University, this themed issue of Work in the Global Economy considers how our understandings of international labour migration and its regulation can be extended through a transnational labour mobility regime approach. The rationale is to bring together labour process approaches and theoretical insights from migration studies. These six contributions examine how transnational labour mobility within and from the majority world intersects with a variety of specific local labour control regimes (Jonas, 1996), collectively foregrounding how the bordering of capital-labour relations (within/ beyond the worksite/ state) informs workers’ individual and collective struggles for life and livelihoods.
The Transition to Democracy in Thailand
Authors: Neher Clark D.
Published: March 2024

Abstract: The essay analyzes the process of democratization in Thailand during the contemporary period. The process has proceeded in fits and starts, and is characterized by difficulty reconciling Westernstyle democracy with Asian traditions. The article points out the differences and similarities between Western and Thai democracy, concluding that the term “semidemocracy” best describes the Thai system. While Thailand has most of the structures characteristic of Western democracies, behaviorally, the kingdom does not meet the standard criteria. Personalistic patron-client networks, ruralurban economic gaps, pervasive corruption, voter and candidate buying, weak political parties, and the disproportionate influence character are examples of that undermine democracy’s chances in Thailand. Nevertheless, Thailand’s movement toward democracy has been inexorable. The article covers the period from the authoritarian regime of General Sarit Thanarat in th 1960s to the present civilian leaders, showing the incremental changes that have moved Thailand closer to democratic standards. The prime ministership of Banharn Silapa-archa set back the clock with the reemergence of old-style money politicians, but in the larger context, his administration was a temporary blip rather than a reversal of the evolution toward democratic procedures. The article concludes that Thailand is well placed to continue its semidemocracy. Increased communications, pragmatic governments, routinization of democratic processes, stable economic development, population control, and the absence of major internal and external threats bode well for the future of the nation and the future of semidemocracy.
The Participation of Japanese Military Forces in United Nations Peacekeeping Operations
Authors: Leitenberg Milton
Published: March 2024

Abstract: Since their establishment in 1954, the Self Defense Forces (SDF) of Japan have been a contentious issue in Japanese domestic politics. The legitimacy of their existence was opposed by the Japanese Socialist Party, which warned, in addition, of the dangers inherent in their existence or expansion. Nevertheless, as early as 1958 and again in 1961, there were requests from UN Secretary General Dag Hammarskjold to the Japanese government that Japan commit members of the SDF for service with United Nations peacekeeping missions. Such proposals were supported by the Japanese ambassador to the United Nations, by U.S. diplomats, and by a series of Japanese commissions established to examine the nation’s national security issues. These suggestions were rejected for decades by successive Japanese governments of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party. Under the pressure of the 1990-1991 Gulf War, however, authorizing legislation was finally passed in June 1992. Additionally, a rapid and large increase in UN peacekeeping operations after the end of the cold war, and the complete reversal of the positions of the Japanese Socialist Party when Tomiichi Murayama became prime minister in June 1994 in a coalition government, have totally altered Japan’s stance on international peacekeeping. Members of Japan’s SDF have now been successfully deployed with UN peacekeeping missions in Cambodia, Mozambique, Zaire, and most recently in the Golan Heights. Asian countries that had expressed qualms and reservations about Japan’s participation beforehand now evidently accept it. All of these deployments have so far been under the provisions of Chapter 6 of the UN Charter, which excludes participation in combat. The 1992 legislation, however, permits eventual expansion of Japan’s participation, if the Japanese parliament approves the extension. This article reviews the history of these developments, and particularly the events that have taken place since 1990. It then assesses the desirability and potential benefits that may result from the participation of Japanese military forces in UN peacekeeping operations, as well as the fears that have been expressed to the effect that such expansion of the roles of the SDF could ultimately lead to a resurgence of Japanese “militarism.” Finally, the article discusses in some detail the major source of reservation regarding the future conduct of Japanese governments once the threshold of SDF service beyond Japan’s shores has been crossed.
Factors Affecting Democratic Installation in Developing Countries: An Empirical Analysis
Authors: Stockton Hans , Heo Uk , Ro Kwang H.
Published: March 2024

Abstract: Recent democratization in Third World countries has prompted many students in social science to reinvestigate the determinants for successful democratization. Extant empirical studies have traditionally utilized the universe of countries to test the correlation between socio-economic development and democracy. In this study, however, we limit our sample universe to those countries which have experienced attempts at democratic transition. Democratic transition can only be the result of an active attempt by elites and/or masses to overthrow non-democratic regimes. The sampling technique utilized in this study differs from other studies by changing theoretical focus away from a simple dichotomy of “democratic” or “non-democratic” outcomes to a statistically unexamined question of the transition process. Does socio-economic development encourage the actual process of regime change and not simply successful outcomes? While also finding support for the proposition that economic prosperity and social factors, such as education, contribute to successful democratization, our main contribution to the literature is in the examination of the presence of an initial transition attempt and then the success or failure of that attempt. As well, we test the data with a threshold model that allows us to ascertain the particular point in development at which a transition attempt will occur. In order to determine what factors really help successful democratization, we employed success or failure of democratic transition as our dependent variable instead of the level of democracy. Results reveal that only per capita income has a significant impact on influencing successful democratic installation.
The U.S. Initiative on Joint Implementation: An Asia-Pacific Perspective
Authors: Dixon Robert K.
Published: March 2024

Abstract: Economic, energy, and environmental security is a tripartite challenge to developing and developed countries of the Asia-Pacific region. Greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) from the burning of fossil fuels are growing rapidly in Asia. Flexible economic instruments, such as joint implementation (JI) and emissions trading, offer a means concomitantly to facilitate economic, energy, and environmental security. The U.S. Initiative on Joint Implementation (IJI) was established as a pilot program to facilitate voluntary project investments by U.S. entities to reduce GHG emissions worldwide. U.S. IJI, working under guidelines established by the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (FCCC), has developed a set of operational criteria for evaluating project proposals. To date, U.S. IJI has received more than 150 project proposals, of which thirty-one have been accepted into the pilot program. These projects represent a diverse set of innovative technologies and practices in thirteen countries. Preliminary estimates suggest that cumulative net emission reductions as a result of these projects are expected to be more than 30 million Mt C (megatons of carbon). Descriptions and case studies of two U.S. IJI projects in Southeast Asia are considered: carbon sequestration in Indonesia through reduced impact logging, and a rural electrification project in Sri Lanka. Experiences from U.S. IJI provide a basis for considering ways to implement emissions reductions under the UNFCCCKyoto Protocol.
The Chinese Anti-American Nationalism in the 1990s
Authors: Xu Guangqiu
Published: March 2024

Abstract: After 1989, nationalism was on the march while anti-Americanism was rising in China. The Chinese nationalism with anti-U.S. sentiments came from three levels. First, Beijing was promoting patriotic education and anti-Americanism campaigns after the Tiananmen crisis and the end of the Cold War. They permeated Chinese society which was under the influence of powerful official propaganda. Secondly, after the Tiananmen incident, many Chinese intellectuals created a number of works of literature and arts expressing their national pride and anti-U.S. feelings because of their new studies on the Western culture, their frustrated personal experiences in the United States, and the anti-Beijing tendency of U.S. media. Finally, China’s economic expansion, the Yinhe incident, the defeat of China’s bid to host the Games, and Washington’s Taiwan policy contributed to the rise of nationalism and anti-Americanism among the Chinese public.
Social Science from an East Asian Perspective: With a Focus on Sociology
Authors: Lee Su-Hoon
Published: March 2024

Abstract: Social science is a very historic and unique form of knowledge. It was institutionalized in nineteenth century Europe. By the time Europeans came to East Asia in the late nineteenth century, Western social science was already a dominant form of social knowledge, delegetimating many other forms of social knowledge of the world. After European social science had been implanted in East Asia, issues such as relevancy and indigenization haunted East Asian scholars. Now the quest for “East Asian” social science is very strong in part because of the shifting world power relations and also due to the emergence of indigenization discourse. This paper is an attempt to discuss these issues from an East Asian perspective.
Embracing Laughter
Authors: Magun Artemy
Published: March 2024

SUMMARY: This essay is a contribution to the discussion forum "Mainstream Narratives of Soviet History and the Laughter of Surprise," framed as responses by literary scholars, historians, and political scientists to Sheila Fitzpatrick's essay "Soviet History as Black Comedy." The essay investigates the mimetic nature of Soviet history and the dialectics of tragedy and comedy in it by referencing the tradition going back to Theodor Adorno and Slavoj Žižek of seeing in laughter a means and ideology of domination. Резюме: Это эссе является частью форума "Мейнстримные нарративы советской истории и смех от удивления," в котором литературоведы, историки и политологи реагируют на эссе Шейлы Фитцпатрик "Советская история как черная комедия". Артемий Магун размышляет о миметическом характере советской истории и диалектике трагедии и комедии в ней. Он обращается к традиции, восходящей к Теодору Адорно и Славою Жижеку, которые видели в смехе форму идеологического доминирования.
Have You Heard a Chukchi Joke? In Search of Other Soviet Comedies
Authors: Sablin Ivan
Published: March 2024

SUMMARY: This essay is a contribution to the discussion forum "Mainstream Narratives of Soviet History and the Laughter of Surprise," framed as responses by literary scholars, historians, and political scientists to Sheila Fitzpatrick's essay "Soviet History as Black Comedy." Ivan Sablin asserts that most Soviet jokes that have informed the perception of Soviet history as black comedy were produced in the Russian-language milieu dominated by urban, educated men. This milieu formed the discursive position of a subject who humorously observes and interprets social reality. Implicitly, this subject was interpreted as universally and homogeneously "Soviet," obscuring the actual national, cultural, and gender diversity of perspectives. Decolonization of this essentially Russocentric discursive position is possible based on a rejection of methodological nationalism and the reconstruction of multiple sensibilities and viewpoints, especially of marginalized groups. Sablin illustrates his multiperspective approach to Soviet history using the example of jokes penned by the famous Soviet Chukchi writer Rytgev (Iurii Rytkheu). Резюме: Это эссе является частью форума "Мейнстримные нарративы советской истории и смех от удивления," в котором литературоведы, историки и политологи реагируют на эссе Шейлы Фитцпатрик "Советская история как черная комедия". Иван Саблин утверждает, что большая часть советских шуток, сформировавших представление о советской истории как черной комедии, созданы в русскоязычной городской среде образованных мужчин. Именно эта среда формировала дискурсивную позицию субъекта – ироничного наблюдателя и интерпретатора социальной реальности. Имплицитно этот субъект воспринимался как универсальный и гомогенный "советский человек," что позволяло игнорировать национальное, культурное и гендерное разнообразие иронической перспективы. Деколонизация этой руссоцентричной позиции возможна посредством отказа от методологического национализма и реконструкции множественных чувствительных зон восприятия и точек зрения, особенно среди маргинализированных групп. Саблин иллюстрирует этот подход к советской мультивекторной истории на примере шуток, автором которых был известный советский чукотский писатель Рытгэв (Юрий Рытхеу).
"Это… было моим тайным 'комплексом'": Иван Лысяк-Рудницкий и еврейство
Authors: Радченко Юрий
Published: March 2024

SUMMARY: This review essay discusses the two-volume publication of the diaries by Ivan Lysiak-Rudnyts'kyi, aka Ivan L. Rudnytsky (1919–1984) – a historian who has had a profound influence on modern Ukrainian historical writing. Specifically, the essay looks at what role, if any, Rudnytsky's Jewish ancestry played in his private contemplations, especially in the 1930s and during the Nazi occupation of Poland and Ukraine, as well as in the aftermath of World War II and the Holocaust. The diaries reveal Rudnytsky's deeply embedded cultural and racial antisemitism, which can be explained in part by his traumatic realization that he belonged to a stigmatized minority that later became a potential target of genocide. With time, Rudnytsky developed a genuine interest in Judaism and Jewish culture. Still, even decades after the war, he never mentioned the Holocaust and the participation of different Ukrainian political groups in it.
Automatic and real-time tissue sensing for autonomous intestinal anastomosis using hybrid MLP-DC-CNN classifier-based optical coherence tomography
Authors: Wang Yaning , Wei Shuwen , Zuo Ruizhi , Kam Michael , Opfermann Justin D. , Sunmola Idris , Hsieh Michael H. , Krieger Axel , Kang Jin U.
Published: March 2024

Anastomosis is a common and critical part of reconstructive procedures within gastrointestinal, urologic, and gynecologic surgery. The use of autonomous surgical robots such as the smart tissue autonomous robot (STAR) system demonstrates an improved efficiency and consistency of the laparoscopic small bowel anastomosis over the current da Vinci surgical system. However, the STAR workflow requires auxiliary manual monitoring during the suturing procedure to avoid missed or wrong stitches. To eliminate this monitoring task from the operators, we integrated an optical coherence tomography (OCT) fiber sensor with the suture tool and developed an automatic tissue classification algorithm for detecting missed or wrong stitches in real time. The classification results were updated and sent to the control loop of STAR robot in real time. The suture tool was guided to approach the object by a dual-camera system. If the tissue inside the tool jaw was inconsistent with the desired suture pattern, a warning message would be generated. The proposed hybrid multilayer perceptron dual-channel convolutional neural network (MLP-DC-CNN) classification platform can automatically classify eight different abdominal tissue types that require different suture strategies for anastomosis. In MLP, numerous handcrafted features (∼1955) were utilized including optical properties and morphological features of one-dimensional (1D) OCT A-line signals. In DC-CNN, intensity-based features and depth-resolved tissues’ attenuation coefficients were fully exploited. A decision fusion technique was applied to leverage the information collected from both classifiers to further increase the accuracy. The algorithm was evaluated on 69,773 testing A-line data. The results showed that our model can classify the 1D OCT signals of small bowels in real time with an accuracy of 90.06%, a precision of 88.34%, and a sensitivity of 87.29%, respectively. The refresh rate of the displayed A-line signals was set as 300 Hz, the maximum sensing depth of the fiber was 3.6 mm, and the running time of the image processing algorithm was ∼1.56 s for 1,024 A-lines. The proposed fully automated tissue sensing model outperformed the single classifier of CNN, MLP, or SVM with optimized architectures, showing the complementarity of different feature sets and network architectures in classifying intestinal OCT A-line signals. It can potentially reduce the manual involvement of robotic laparoscopic surgery, which is a crucial step towards a fully autonomous STAR system.
High-energy, low-jitter, narrowband ps probe laser for kHz-rate fs/ps coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering
Authors: Braun Erik L. , Patel Karna , Athmanathan Venkat , Meyer Terrence R. , Roy Sukesh , Slipchenko Mikhail N.
Published: March 2024

Hybrid fs/ps coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering (CARS) thermometry often utilizes ps probe pulses derived from pulse shaping or spectrally filtering the primary laser source or by synchronization with a low repetition rate external laser. This results in limited energy, spectral resolution, and/or repetition rate of the ps probe. In this work, a master-oscillator power-amplifier (MOPA) laser was synchronized to the oscillator of a Ti:sapphire regenerative amplifier to achieve high-energy (600 µJ), narrowband (58 ps) probe pulses at kHz repetition rates. Temporal filtering allows the pulse characteristics to be adjusted for each application. At 25 Torr, relevant to high-speed flows, the kHz-rate MOPA system generated signal-to-noise ratios 3× higher in nitrogen and had improved precision relative to a 10 ps probe derived from spectral filtering and the power-amplifier. The MOPA system also enabled single-shot ro-vibrational hybrid fs/ps CARS thermometry in 650 K heated air.
Diagnostics of luminescent recording media based on the polarized scattering spectra of hologram sensors formed in the substance analyzed
Authors: Tarasashvili I. , Purtseladze A. L. , Petrova S. S. , Shaverdova V. G. , Tarasashvili M. V.
Published: March 2024

The article is devoted to the diagnosis and identification of luminescent holographic information carriers in particular wine products using polarization holographic spectroscopy methods. For the first time, to our best knowledge, a technique has been developed for measuring and analyzing scattered polarized light (depolarization spectra) on polarization-holographic sensors formed in analyte. Polarized scattering spectra on a hologram sensor (measuring transducers) are of particular interest, since they provide information not only about the chemical composition of the media, for example, luminescence and absorption spectra, but also about particles that may be present in the analyte – the higher the anisotropy of the molecules and atoms, the greater the depolarization. Methods for measuring polarized scattering and excitation spectra carried out for various samples of holographic materials, as well as methods for processing and presenting the obtained spectral data are described. This may be of interest, since recording media, in particular wine, are complex colloidal systems. For the diagnosis, classification and identification of recording materials, it is proposed for the first time to use reflective holographic sensors (Yu.N. Denisyuk) of various physical natures (the concept of a spectral holographic portrait).
Short-term prediction for chaotic time series based on photonic reservoir computing using VCSEL with a feedback loop
Authors: Guo Xingxing , Zhou Hanxu , Xiang Shuiying , Yu Qian , Zhang Yahui , Han Yanan , Wang Tao , Hao Yue
Published: March 2024

Chaos, occurring in a deterministic system, has permeated various fields such as mathematics, physics, and life science. Consequently, the prediction of chaotic time series has received widespread attention and made significant progress. However, many problems, such as high computational complexity and difficulty in hardware implementation, could not be solved by existing schemes. To overcome the problems, we employ the chaotic system of a vertical-cavity surface-emitting laser (VCSEL) mutual coupling network to generate chaotic time series through optical system simulation and experimentation in this paper. Furthermore, a photonic reservoir computing based on VCSEL, along with a feedback loop, is proposed for the short-term prediction of the chaotic time series. The relationship between the prediction difficulty of the reservoir computing (RC) system and the difference in complexity of the chaotic time series has been studied with emphasis. Additionally, the attention coefficient of injection strength and feedback strength, prediction duration, and other factors on system performance are considered in both simulation and experiment. The use of the RC system to predict the chaotic time series generated by actual chaotic systems is significant for expanding the practical application scenarios of the RC.
The role of institutional design in mobilizing climate finance: Empirical evidence from Bangladesh, Brazil, Ethiopia, and Indonesia
Authors: Bhandary Rishikesh Ram
Published: March 2024

International climate finance is a crucial component of the response to climate change. This paper examines how national-level funding vehicles mobilize finance from international sources. Based on interviews with policymakers and various actors involved in the negotiation and design of four major early national climate funds, the Amazon Fund, the Bangladesh Climate Change Resilience Fund, Ethiopia’s Climate Resilient Green Economy Facility, and the Indonesia Climate Change Trust Fund, this paper identifies design features of national climate funds and highlights the trade-offs that developing countries face in their pursuit of climate finance. These design features have significant bearing on the overall effectiveness of the funds themselves. The findings from this study suggest that developing countries seek to maximize control over the funds even though it means that the design features do not minimize costs, as efficiency-oriented perspectives would suggest. The experience of these early national climate funds could be instructive to those governments and stakeholders considering establishing their own national climate funds or improving features. Three policy lessons are noteworthy: the importance of demonstrating commitment to climate policy through transparent data and results, instilling robust fiduciary standards and safeguards, and the virtuous cycle mobilizing climate finance and acquiring a track record on climate programming.