bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Removal of Autogenous Fat Filling in Double Eyelid Operation by Artificial Intelligence (AI) Algorithm-Based Computerized Tomography (CT) Image Features
Authors: Fang Tao , Sui Wenwen , Guo Liang
Published: February 2022

The effect of autogenous fat filling was evaluated by computerized tomography (CT) image features based on the symmetric extended convolutional residual network image denoising algorithm in this research, and the pathological examination was conducted for the lesions of patients with complications. The examination provided more valid research basis for the clinical application of autogenous fat filling. 60 patients who received double eyelid operation were selected as the research objects, and the patients were randomly divided into the control group and the experimental group, where each group included 30 cases. The conventional double eyelid operation was adopted in treating the cases in the control group, while autogenous fat filling was adopted in the treatment of the cases in the experimental group. All patients in two groups were examined by CT images based on the symmetric extended convolutional residual network image denoising algorithm, and the therapeutic effects on patients in two groups and the evaluation of complications were compared. Next, the lesions of the complications of patients in the experimental group were examined pathologically. Besides, the efficacy and security of the pathological examination were assessed. The result showed that the values of peak signal-to-noise ratio (PSNR) and structural similarity (SSIM) (σ (noise level) = 60 : 24.78 dB, 0.7022) in different noise images of the artificial intelligence algorithm adopted in the research were obviously higher than those obtained by the convolutional neural network (CNN) and deep convolutional neural network (DCNN) algorithms (P < 0.05). The therapeutic efficacy of patients in the experimental group was higher than that in the control group (68.67% vs 60%). In addition, eyelid swelling scoring, double eyelid line width, and upper eyelid muscle strength of patients in the experimental group were all better than those of patients in the control group (P < 0.05). Besides, the incidence of complications (10%) of patients in the experimental group was significantly lower than that (30%) of patients in the control group. The pathological results of patients in the experimental group demonstrated that the lesion tissues might denature in future. As a result, the CT image processing of the algorithm adopted in this research could denoise effectively, and PSNR and SSIM values were high. In terms of the treatment by double eyelid operation, autogenous fat filling was effective, noninvasive, simple and resulted in low incidence of complications with a certain degree of security.
Unidirectional Geosynthetic Reinforcement Design for Bridging Localized Sinkholes in Transport Embankments
Authors: Li Peinan , Su Feng
Published: February 2022

The durability of foundations with localized sinkholes can be improved by geosynthetic-reinforced soil. Current design methods for geosynthetic-reinforced structures are based on the assumptions that the vertical load is distributed uniformly on the geosynthetic above the sinkhole and it corresponds to the geostatic stress in the anchorage area. In this study, a new analytical method is proposed to consider the ‘secondary arching effect’ and the vertical load distribution in the anchorage area due to the ‘arching effect.’ The influence of vertical load acting on the geosynthetic is analyzed based on three different cases. Results indicate that the increment of vertical load on the geosynthetic in the anchorage area has little effect on the maximum tensile force and surface settlement. Compared to a uniform load distribution on the geosynthetic above the sinkhole, the assumption of an inverse triangular load distribution can reduce the maximum tensile force and surface settlement. A new design method is proposed to determine the minimum geosynthetic stiffness to meet design standards. The obtained results verify the method as an applicable tool to meet the serviceability limit state and the ultimate limit state criteria.
Flame Resistance Characteristics of Woven Jute Fiber Reinforced Fly Ash Filled Polymer Composite
Authors: Balan G. Sakthi , Balasundaram R. , Chellamuthu K. , Gopan S. Nandha , Dinesh S. , Vijayan V. , Sathish T. , Rajkumar S.
Published: February 2022

Due to their unique characteristics, natural fiber reinforced polymer composites have recently been increasingly utilised to replace traditional materials. Fire retardant resins can increase flammability, and they have a deleterious influence on the mechanical properties of the material (Fan et al., 2020). As a result, this experiment examined the flammability of woven jute fiber reinforced with fly ash. The specimens were created by hand layup using a L9 orthogonal array and varying ratios of jute fiber, fly ash, and time for chemical fiber treatment. Vertical and horizontal flammability tests are conducted in accordance with ASTM D635 and ASTM D3801, respectively. According to the test results, the inclusion of fly ash significantly reduces flammability. In this work, 5 wt% inclusion of the jute fiber, 15 wt% addition of the fly ash, and with 10 hours, NaOH treatment produces a composite with minimum burning rates of 10.2 mm/min in horizontal UL‐94 tests. To determine the link between input and output characteristics, various regression models from machine learning are used. Multilayer perception produced a stronger association in both horizontal and vertical testing, according to the models.
Use of an Amplatzer ASD Occlusion Device for the Closure of an Ascending Aortic Pseudoaneurysm Presenting as Hemoptysis
Authors: Kondoleon Nicholas P. , Kanaan Christopher , Hansen Jonathan , Kapadia Samir R.
Published: February 2022

Aortic pseudoaneurysms can commonly be caused by previous thoracic surgery, trauma, and infection, quickly becoming life-threatening if ruptured. This pathology is typically asymptomatic and incidentally found on imaging; however, few cases have outlined hemoptysis as a presenting symptom for aortic pseudoaneurysms. Traditionally, management of these patients included surgical correction; however, percutaneous approaches have emerged as a safe alternative, helping to reduce the risk of morbidity and mortality associated with surgical correction. This report seeks to describe a case in which hemoptysis was the symptom unveiling the finding of a thoracic ascending aortic pseudoaneurysm and the use of an Amplatzer atrial septal defect (ASD) occlusion device as a viable option to safely resolve the disease process.
Effect of Shenling Baizhu San on Intestinal Flora in a Rat Model of Ulcerative Colitis with Spleen Deficiency and Dampness
Authors: Luo Yiting , Zhu Fangyuan , Wu Jiaqian , Wu Jin , Wu Pei , Liu Yingchao
Published: February 2022

Objective. Shenling Baizhu San (SLBZS) is reported as an effective drug for ulcerative colitis (UC); however, its effect on intestinal flora remains unknown. In this study, we investigated the effect of SLBZS on intestinal flora in a rat model of UC with spleen deficiency and dampness. Methods. UC was induced in rats using 2,4,6-trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid on the basis of a model of spleen deficiency and dampness. The 16S rDNA sequencing was used to detect structural changes in the intestinal flora; the phylogenetic investigation of communities by reconstruction of unobserved state (PICRUSt) analysis was used to predict the altered pathways. Results. Compared with the model group, rats in the SLBZS group exhibited decreased levels of TNF-α

P
<
0.05

, and increased abundance and diversity of the intestinal flora. The abundance of Actinobacteria

P
<
0.001

and Bacteroides

P
<
0.01

increased and that of Firmicutes decreased

P

<

0.001

, and the abundance of Bifidobacterium

P
<
0.05

and Allobaculum increased. PICRUSt analysis showed that the altered pathways between the groups were those of fatty acid and antibiotic biosynthesis, amino acid metabolism, and the pentose phosphate pathway. Conclusions. SLBZS can regulate the structure and function of the intestinal flora, alter expression levels of certain metabolic pathways, and has the potential to treat UC.
Disrupting the MYC-TFEB Circuit Impairs Amino Acid Homeostasis and Provokes Metabolic Anergy
Authors: Fernandez Mario R. , Schaub Franz X. , Yang Chunying , Li Weimin , Yun Seongseok , Schaub Stephanie K. , Dorsey Frank C. , Liu Min , Steeves Meredith A. , Ballabio Andrea , Tzankov Alexandar , Chen Zhihua , Koomen John M. , Berglund Anders E. , Cleveland John L.
Published: February 2022

MYC family oncoproteins are regulators of metabolic reprogramming that sustains cancer cell anabolism. Normal cells adapt to nutrient-limiting conditions by activating autophagy, which is required for amino acid (AA) homeostasis. Here we report that the autophagy pathway is suppressed by Myc in normal B cells, in premalignant and neoplastic B cells of Eμ-Myc transgenic mice, and in human MYC-driven Burkitt lymphoma. Myc suppresses autophagy by antagonizing the expression and function of transcription factor EB (TFEB), a master regulator of autophagy. Mechanisms that sustained AA pools in MYC-expressing B cells include coordinated induction of the proteasome and increases in AA transport. Reactivation of the autophagy-lysosomal pathway by TFEB disabled the malignant state by disrupting mitochondrial functions, proteasome activity, AA transport, and AA and nucleotide metabolism, leading to metabolic anergy, growth arrest, and apoptosis. This phenotype provides therapeutic opportunities to disable MYC-driven malignancies, including AA restriction and treatment with proteasome inhibitors.

Significance:

MYC suppresses TFEB and autophagy and controls amino acid homeostasis by upregulating amino acid transport and the proteasome, and reactivation of TFEB disables the metabolism of MYC-driven tumors.
Participação da pessoa com deficiência intelectual e síndrome de Down nas Paralimpíadas: o direito à visibilidade
Authors: Dalla Déa Vanessa Helena Santana , Martínez Elisa Benito , Rios Gleyson Batista , Duarte Edison , Oliveira Filho Ciro Winckler de
Published: February 2022

Os Jogos Paralímpicos são atualmente o momento de maior visibilidade da eficiência das pessoas com deficiência por meio do esporte. A participação das pessoas com deficiência intelectual nas Paralimpíadas tem sido bem menor que das pessoas com deficiência sensorial ou motora. E as pessoas com síndrome de Down tem sido excluídas desse evento. Esse artigo tem como objetivo analisar o direito à visibilidade e participação das pessoas com deficiência intelectual e síndrome de Down nas Paralimpíadas. Trata-se de uma pesquisa qualitativa-descritiva realizada por meio de questionário com responsáveis da confederação de esportes para pessoa com deficiência intelectual no Brasil e Espanha. Verifcou-se que as pessoas com deficiência intelectual apresentam menos participação e as pessoas com síndrome de Down não estão participando das paralimpíadas. Conclui-se que a participação nas paralimpíadas trata-se de um direito que além de garantir o direito ao movimento e ao esporte, pode proporcionar maior visibilidade dessas pessoas e possíveis mudanças de preconceitos.
Dança como possibilidade de educação para Direitos Humanos: entendendo, discutindo e encenando o Holocausto
Authors: Dalla Déa Vanessa Helena Santana , Lima Marlini Dorneles de , Barral José Henrique Amoedo , Ferreira Julia Mariano
Published: February 2022

O presente artigo tem como objetivo apresentar a dança como possibilidade de educação para direitos humanos. Trata-se de uma pesquisa qualitativa por meio de estudo observacional transversal descritivo por meio da análise documental de vídeos. O estudo tem como objeto a descrição do processo de educação, preparação, sensibilização e efetivação do Espetáculo Endless em Goiânia-Goiás. Por meio dos resultados foi possível verifcar a potência da extensão universitária e da dança como forma de educação para direitos humanos. Foram analisados relatos de bailarinos, coreógrafo e coordenadora do projeto, além de imagens do ensaio e do espetáculo. Foi possível verifcar, pelos relatos, que a dança inclusiva/decolonial e a acessibilidade cultural, promoveu mudanças de paradigmas e consciência dos horrores do Holocauto e dos Direitos Humanos. As imagens dos ensaios e espetáculo também proporcionaram verifcar a potência da dança para sensibilização e consciência da necessidade de Direitos Humanos. Concluímos que a experiência com o Endless permitiu que os envolvidos participassem de forma singular, múltipla, com suas efciências e defciência. O espetáculo lançou um olhar para o respeito pela diferença e diversidade comprovando a potência da dança como Educação para Direitos Humanos.
Ischemic Stroke Severity and Mortality in Patients With and Without Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Vinding Naja E. , Kristensen Søren L. , Rørth Rasmus , Butt Jawad H. , Østergaard Lauge , Olesen Jonas B. , Torp‐Pedersen Christian , Gislason Gunnar H. , Køber Lars , Kruuse Christina , Johnsen Søren P. , Fosbøl Emil L.
Published: February 2022

Background

Our objective was to investigate stroke severity and subsequent rate of mortality among patients with and without atrial fibrillation (AF). Contemporary data on stroke severity and prognosis in patients with AF are lacking.

Methods and Results

First‐time ischemic stroke patients from the Danish Stroke Registry (January 2005–December 2016) were included in an observational study. Patients with AF were matched 1:1 by sex, age, calendar year, and CHA
2
DS
2
‐VASc score with patients without AF. Stroke severity was determined by the Scandinavian Stroke Scale (0–58 points). The rate of death was estimated by Kaplan‐Meier plots and multivariable Cox regression. Among 86 458 identified patients with stroke, 17 205 had AF. After matching, 14 662 patients with AF and 14 662 patients without AF were included (51.8% women; median age, 79.6 years [25th–75th percentile, 71.8–86.0]). More patients with AF had very severe stroke (0–14 points) than patients without AF (13.7% versus 7.9%,
P
<0.01). The absolute rates of 30‐day and 1‐year mortality were significantly higher for patients with AF (12.1% and 28.4%, respectively) versus patients without AF (8.7% and 21.8%, respectively). This held true in adjusted models for 30‐day mortality (hazard ratio [HR], 1.40 [95% CI, 1.30–1.51]). However, this association became nonsignificant when additionally adjusting for stroke severity (HR, 1.10 [95% CI, 1.00–1.23]). AF was associated with a higher rate of 1‐year mortality (HR, 1.39 [95% CI, 1.32–1.46]), although it was mediated by stroke severity (HR, 1.15 [95% CI, 1.09–1.23], model including stroke severity).

Conclusions

In a contemporary nationwide cohort of patients with ischemic stroke, patients with AF had more severe strokes and higher mortality than patients without AF. The difference in mortality was mainly driven by stroke severity.
Inverse Association Between Bystander Use of Audiovisual Feedback From an Automated External Defibrillator and Return of Spontaneous Circulation
Authors: Obling Laust , Hassager Christian , Blomberg Stig Nikolaj , Folke Fredrik
Published: February 2022

Background

Treatment with an automated external defibrillator (AED) improves outcome in out‐of‐hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA). Audiovisual feedback from an AED may assist bystanders achieve higher quality cardiopulmonary resuscitation. However, the association between audiovisual feedback and clinical outcomes is not well assessed in real‐life OHCA. The aim of this study was to assess the association between audiovisual feedback from an AED used in bystander resuscitation with rates of return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) and 30‐day survival in a real‐life cohort of patients with OHCA.

Methods and Results

We included 325 patients treated with bystander AED use before arrival of emergency medical services during 2016 to 2019 from the Capital Region of Denmark. Patients were divided into a “feedback” and a “nonfeedback” group, depending on presence of audiovisual feedback from the AED. Audiovisual feedback was defined as voice prompts with continuous feedback to ongoing resuscitation. Rates of ROSC upon hospital admission and 30‐day survival were assessed, and univariate and multivariable models were applied to decide the association to audiovisual feedback. Multivariable models were adjusted for sex, age, primary heart rhythm, and location of OHCA. A total of 155 (48%) patients had a bystander AED applied with audiovisual feedback and 170 (52%) without audiovisual feedback. A lower rate of ROSC was found in the feedback group compared with the nonfeedback group (33% [n=51] versus 45% [n=76];
P
=0.03). No association was observed between AV feedback and 30‐day survival (feedback=27% [n=42] and nonfeedback=31% [n=53];
P
=0.49). In the unadjusted logistic regression model, audiovisual feedback was associated with a decreased chance of ROSC (odds ratio, 0.61; 95% CI, 0.38–0.95;
P
=0.03), which remained significant after adjusted analysis (odds ratio, 0.53; 95% CI, 0.29–0.97;
P
=0.04), whereas we found no significant association between audiovisual feedback and 30‐day survival in the unadjusted and adjusted analyses.

Conclusions

Audiovisual feedback from an AED used by bystanders was associated with a lower chance of ROSC at hospital admission, but we found no significant difference in 30‐day survival. Focus on early and correct bystander cardiopulmonary resuscitation and AED use remain key for OHCA survival.
Large‐Conductance Calcium‐Activated Potassium Channel Opener, NS1619, Protects Against Mesenteric Artery Remodeling Induced by Agonistic Autoantibodies Against the Angiotensin II Type 1 Receptor
Authors: Wang Meili , Yin Xiaochen , Li Shuanglei , Zhang Xi , Yi Ming , He Chunyu , Li Xiaoyue , Wang Wei , Zhang Suli , Liu Huirong
Published: February 2022

Background

Agonistic autoantibodies against the angiotensin II type 1 receptor (AT1‐AAs) extensively exist in patients with hypertensive diseases and have been demonstrated to play crucial roles in the pathophysiological process of vascular remodeling. However, the treatment options are limited. The large‐conductance calcium‐activated potassium (BK) channel is a critical regulator and potential therapeutic target of vascular tone and architecture. We have previously observed that AT1‐AAs have an inhibitory effect on BK channels. However, whether BK channel dysfunction is involved in AT1‐AAs‐induced vascular remodeling and the therapeutic effect of BK channel opener is unclear.

Methods and Results

In our study, mesenteric arteries from AT1‐AAs‐positive rats exhibited increased wall thickness, narrowing of the arteriolar lumen, and increased collagen accumulation. Patch clamp test results showed that the voltage sensitivity of BK channel declined in mesenteric arteriolar smooth muscle cells from AT1‐AAs‐positive rats. Experiments with freshly isolated mesenteric arteriolar smooth muscle cells showed that AT1‐AAs reduced the opening probability, open levels, open dwell time, and calcium sensitivity of BK channel. Experiments with HEK293T cells transfected with GFP‐ZERO‐BK α‐subunit plasmids suggested a BK channel α‐subunit‐dependent mechanism. BK channel α‐subunit deficient, namely
KCNMA1
−/−
rats showed a phenotype of mesenteric artery remodeling. The administration of NS1619, a specific BK channel opener targeting the α‐subunit, reversed the phenotypic transition and migration induced by AT1‐AAs in cultured mesenteric arteriolar smooth muscle cells. Finally, perfusion of NS1619 significantly relieved the pathological effects induced by AT1‐AAs in vivo.

Conclusions

In summary, we provide compelling evidence that BK channel α‐subunit dysfunction mediates AT1‐AAs‐induced mesenteric artery remodeling. Preservation of BK channel activity may serve as a potential strategy for the treatment of AT1‐AAs‐induced maladaptive resistance artery remodeling.
Health‐Related Quality of Life in Older Patients With Advanced Heart Failure: Findings From the SUSTAIN‐IT Study
Authors: Grady Kathleen L. , Andrei Adin‐Cristian , Elenbaas Christian , Warzecha Anna , Baldridge Abigail , Kao Andrew , Spertus John A. , Pham Duc‐Thinh , Dew Mary Amanda , Hsich Eileen , Cotts William , Hartupee Justin , Pamboukian Salpy V. , Pagani Francis D. , Petty Michael , Lampert Brent , Johnson Maryl , Murray Margaret , Takeda Koji , Yuzefpolskaya Melana , Silvestry Scott , Kirklin James K. , Yancy Clyde
Published: February 2022

Background

There is a paucity of research describing health‐related quality of life (HRQOL) in older adults considered for advanced heart failure surgical therapies. Using data from our SUSTAIN‐IT (Sustaining Quality of Life of the Aged: Heart Transplant or Mechanical Support) study, we aimed to compare HRQOL among 3 groups of older (60–80 years) patients with heart failure before heart transplantation (HT) or long‐term mechanical circulatory support (MCS) and identify factors associated with HRQOL: (1) HT candidates with MCS, (2) HT candidates without MCS, or (3) candidates ineligible for HT and scheduled for long‐term MCS.

Methods and Results

Patients from 13 US sites completed assessments, including self‐reported measures of HRQOL (EuroQol‐5 Dimension Questionnaire, Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire–12), depressive symptoms (Personal Health Questionnaire–8), anxiety (State‐Trait Anxiety Inventory–state form), cognitive status (Montreal Cognitive Assessment), and performance‐based measures (6‐minute walk test and 5‐m gait speed). Analyses included ANOVA, χ
2
tests, Fisher’s exact tests, and linear regression. The sample included 393 patients; the majority of patients were White men and married. Long‐term MCS candidates (n=154) were significantly older and had more comorbidities and a higher New York Heart Association class than HT candidates with MCS (n=118) and HT candidates without MCS (n=121). Long‐term MCS candidates had worse HRQOL than HT candidates with and without MCS (EQ‐5D visual analog scale scores, 46±23 versus 68±18 versus 54±23 [
P
<0.001] and Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire–12 overall summary scores, 35±21 versus 60±21 versus 49±22 [
P
<0.001], respectively). In multivariable analyses, lower 6‐minute walk distance, higher New York Heart Association class, depressive symptoms, and not being an HT candidate with MCS were significantly associated with worse overall HRQOL.

Conclusions

Our findings demonstrate important differences in overall and domain‐specific HRQOL of older patients with heart failure before HT or long‐term MCS. Understanding HRQOL differences may guide decisions toward more appropriate and personalized advanced heart failure therapies.
Legal Implications Resulting from State Failure in Light of the Case of Somalia
Authors: Koskenmäki Riikka
Published: February 2022

State failure, the implosion of effective government, has even led to the emergence of a state totally lacking government, Somalia from 1991 through 2000, the failed state par excellence. As the existence of a state with no government has not been foreseen by international law, this inquiry seeks to sketch, by exploring, analyzing and discussing the case of Somalia and studying rules of international law, a pattern of legal consequences caused by its failure. Though focused on Somalia, the only contemporary example of complete state collapse, the study is conducted in comparison with states, which are undergoing lesser degrees of failure (‘failing states’), addressing thus some of the legal consequences of the phenomenon also in a broader framework. The inquiry indicates that while the rights and duties of failing states appear to remain generally unaffected by temporary problems of governance, complete state collapse, by contrast, has far-reaching legal implications. Most notably, without a representative authority the state becomes incapable of acting as a subject of international law, and consequently, absent in the international sphere. Without alternative models for international representation, this entails the exclusion of the people of the failed state from international interaction. Furthermore, the analysis identifies a number of difficulties related to both applying the existing and formulating new rules of international law with regard to failed states, because the phenomenon touches upon the state institution itself, the core of international law.
Vengeful Promises: The Agency of Love Oaths as Materially Hybrid Texts in Late Seventeenth-Century Japan
Authors: Leca Radu
Published: February 2022

This article focuses on the historical use and meanings of early modern oaths (Jp. kishōmon 起請文). These materially hybrid texts were initially stamped (on one side) and then inscribed by hand in ink (on the other side), often even in blood. Since they are an inextricable combination of print and handwriting, they complicate such dichotomies and open up a series of issues central to the understanding of scribal practices in early modern Japan. This article moves beyond their content analysis to address issues of materiality and agency along with the relationship between orality, writing and bodily practices.
Creaky Voice as a Distinctive Feature of Tone Systems
Authors: Mai Yun
Published: February 2022

Creaky voice is found in the entering tones (rusheng) in Baduhua, a Chinese dialect in Guangxi. Both rusheng tones in Baduhua have falling contours, yinru being high falling and yangru low falling. Of theoretical interest is that they contrast with the two plain falling tones, yinqu and yangqu, respectively, in the same language. The only difference between the two pairs of tones is presence or absence of creaky voice. This is the first time that creaky voice has been found to serve as the only distinctive feature in differentiating tonal categories.
Length as the Exclusive Distinctive Feature:
Authors: Lam Man Fong
Published: February 2022

Pitch is generally regarded as the exclusive distinctive tonal feature in tone descriptions of Chinese dialects. By means of acoustic experiments, this paper investigates the tones of the Fuqing dialect. The results show that the F0 of the shangsheng and yangqu tones are nearly identical. A perception experiment involving identification tests was conducted to explore the influence of tone length on tonal perception. The results show that length functions as the exclusive distinctive feature. This demonstrates the vital role length plays in a description of the tones of the Fuqing dialect.
The Phonetic Nature of the Entering Tones in Chaozhou Dialect
Authors: Zhu Xiaonong , Hong Ying
Published: February 2022

One of the most important features of the entering tones (rusheng) of the Min dialect of Chaozhou is that yinru has a lower pitch than yangru. This project demonstrates the acoustic properties of 200 Chaozhou rusheng syllables by examining their spectrogram patterns, spectral tilt and HNR. Our findings show that the tonal flip-flop in Chaozhou dialect has resulted from changes in phonation type of the rusheng syllables. The yinru syllables drop their final glottal stop and have changed their phonation into creaky voice, which induced low pitch. Yangru syllables are more complicated. There are two variants of yangru, one having a final glottal stop, the other having a compound phonation called creaky-falsetto
The Development Patterns of Consonants in Old Mongolian
Authors: Harnud Huhe
Published: February 2022

The present study is the first systematic comparative work on consonants in Mongolic languages, the purpose of which is to establish a basis for the historical-comparative study of the development of consonants in the Mongolic languages. This comparative study is based on data from the following languages: Classical Written Mongolian, Modern Mongolian, Monguor, Moghol, Dagur, Shira Yugur, Buriad, Kalmuck, Dongxiang, Baoan and Chakhar sub-dialect.
The Uvular Sounds of Sino-Tibetan
Authors: Liu Zemin
Published: February 2022

Many languages in the Sino-Tibetan family have uvular sounds. Some scholars have put forward the hypothesis that there should be a set of uvular sounds in Proto-Sino-Tibetan. This paper attempts to evaluate this hypothesis through the following aspects: (1) the synchronic distribution of uvular sounds in modern Sino-Tibetan languages; (2) a review of relevant literature; (3) a typological survey of uvular and velar sounds; (4) physiological and acoustical investigations of uvular sounds; (5) sound changes of uvulars; (6) the origin of the uvulars in Sino-Tibetan languages; (7) areal investigation of Sino-Tibetan uvulars from the perspective of language contact; (8) reconstruction of uvulars in Old Chinese; (9) examples of Sino-Tibetan cognates with uvular sounds.
A Comparison of Vowel Normalization Methods and Their Applications
Authors: Jiao Lei
Published: February 2022

In this paper I discuss the necessity and possibility of the application of normalization methods in phonetic studies, especially in the acoustic analysis of vowels. I also compare and evaluate the vowel normalization methods listed in Adank et al. (2004), with the method of calculating the centrality of vowels after normalization. The results show that the Z-score method and CLIH1 method are the most effective in centralizing the data and eliminating gender differences.
Experimental and Numerical Validation of In-Cylinder Combustion Analysis of DI Diesel Engine
Authors: Gugulothu S. K. , Sinha Manoj Kumar
Published: February 2022

The major factors affecting the process of combustion in a single cylinder diesel engine is in-cylinder fluid flow characteristics. Better fuel-air mixing and combustion rates in diesel engine are primarily enhanced by the fluid flow. The fluid flow prior to combustion process in DI
diesel engines travel through induction process and further gets improvised during the compression process. Therefore, it is compulsory to understand the fluid flow motion inside the cylinder in designing the different bowl-in-piston geometries with the most appropriate operating and emission
characteristics. A better spatial distribution is required for the injected fuel throughout the entire space of combustion geometry in DI diesel engine, to obtain a better combustion with lesser emission. In order to effectively make use of gas flows it is mandatory to match the piston bowl
geometry with fuel spray characteristics. For obtaining better combustion, matching of combustion chamber geometry, fuel injection and gas flows plays prominent role. But it is evident that piston bowl geometry plays a significant role on flow of compressed air when piston moves from BDC to
TDC i.e., before the start of combustion, resulting in proper mixing, better vaporization and atomization of fluid particles. When compared with other combustion chambers, Off-set bowl in the absence of central projection with sharp edges provide higher swirl number. Higher these whirl number
lesser will be the soot emission at the expense of higher NOx level.
Analytical Modeling of a Material Efficient Hollow Shaft Design
Authors: Dangi Sachin , Kumar Aditya , Choudhary Siddharth
Published: February 2022

This paper discusses the optimal distribution of material across the cross-section of a shaft under pure uniform torsional loads such that the factor of safety and thereby the shear stresses generated at any point in the cross-section remain largely the same irrespective of their radial
distance from the centre of the shaft. An analytical mathematical relationship is deduced to relate the material distribution as a function of the radial distance. The relationship is then used to plot the corresponding variation in MATLAB. Finally, several CAD models of the proposed cross-sectional
shapes are prepared in SolidWorks, and then simulated in ANSYS simulation software by employing the Static Structural analysis platform. The graphical and statistical results of the shear stress distributions are then compared with a solid shaft of the exact same radial and axial dimensions.
It is found that the proposed 3-Branched model is about 25% more efficient in material utilization than the conventionally employed solid shaft of similar dimensions.
Conversion of Stationary Diesel Engine into Producer Gas-Engine Operated in Spark Ignited Mode
Authors: Attri Vikas , Sharma Prabhakar , Sharma Avdhesh Kr.
Published: February 2022

Decentralized power supply for remote and urban areas via gasifier-engine system is an attractive choice especially when sources of fossil fuel are getting depleted and leading to serious emission hazards. In gasifier, the solid biomass is converted into “producer gas,”
which can fuel a gas-engine in single fuel mode i.e., complete substitution. The conversion of stationary diesel engine into producer gas-engine (i.e., complete substitution) ensure complete independency from fossil fuels; although it demands major modifications/retrofitting arrangements.
Herein, an existing diesel engine of capacity 7.4 kW is chosen and converted into producer gas-engine operated on single fuel mode (spark ignited) at compression ratio of 14:1. Other arrangements such as installation of spark ignited mode (i.e., ignition coil and distributor followed by contact
breaker unit), gasoline carburetor and special induction system followed by other necessary arrangements were carried out. A kit is suggested for conversion of different capacity and types engines utilizing alternate/renewable gaseous fuels. A considerable power loss (power derating) and reduction
in thermal efficiency is observed while operation in single producer gas mode. More detailed experiments are required to predict qualitative performance trends.
Whom to Help: Prosocial Behaviors and the Restoration of a Tarnished Identity
Authors: Ramos Maria C.
Published: February 2022

How can moral transgressors rebuild their image as good people? Using affect control theory, I hypothesize that prosociality—benefitting others—will blunt negative impressions of a norm violator. I also hypothesize that benefitting good or weak people—and not bad or powerful people—will amplify the positive effect of prosociality. In two survey-vignette studies, participants reported their perceptions about a man who takes money from a found wallet—unethical behavior—and gives or does not give it to someone else—prosocial behavior. Results show prosociality redeems violators more when they help good rather than bad persons. In certain situations, helping powerless persons is more image revamping than helping powerful persons.
Bloodlines: National Border Crossings and Antisemitism in Weimar Germany
Authors: Braun Robert
Published: February 2022

This article argues that national border crossings act as focal points for xenophobia. Two mechanisms converge to produce this pattern. First, when the nation-state is under pressure, border crossings make cross-national differences salient, producing a perceived link between international forces and socioeconomic problems of vulnerable social classes. Second, border crossings come to symbolize international threats and attract aggressive nationalist mobilization by radical movements who frame ethnic outsiders as an international evil. In this distinct spatial landscape, ethnic outsiders become scapegoats for broader social problems among individuals losing social status. I develop my argument through the study of local variation in antisemitism in Weimar Germany before the Holocaust. Statistical analysis of Jewish bogeymen and an in-depth exploration of local reports on antisemitism reveal how pluralism in the Weimar Republic started eroding among members of the lower-middle class living at the margins of the state. In doing so, I draw attention to the spatial sources of xenophobia and demonstrate that borders between nations activate borders within nations, shedding new light on the complicated relationship between pluralism and state formation.
Thyroid Cartilage Compression Causing Bow Hunter’s Syndrome
Authors: Hong Xinyuan , D’heygere Emmanuel , Prisman Eitan
Published: February 2022

Objectives and Methods:

We report a unique case of Bow Hunter’s syndrome with a dominant aberrantly coursing right vertebral artery (VA), presenting with persistent dizziness and syncope despite previous decompressive surgery at vertebral levels C5-C6.

Results:

Re-evaluation with computed tomography-scan during provocation of dizziness by neck rotation revealed compression of the right VA at level C6 from against the ipsilateral posterior border and superior cornu of the thyroid cartilage. Laryngoplasty resulted in complete resolution of symptoms.

Conclusion:

This extremely rare cause of Bow’s Hunter’s syndrome should be considered, especially in refractory cases after neurosurgical decompression, and surgical management is straightforward and successful.
Otolaryngology Program Director, House-Staff, and Student Opinions: Step 1 Pass/Fail Score Reporting
Authors: Kay Hannah G. , Makhoul Alan T. , Ganesh Kumar Nishant , Pontell Matthew E. , Drolet Brian C. , Whigham Amy S.
Published: February 2022

Objective(s):

To compare otolaryngology program director, house-staff, and medical student perspectives on the score reporting change of USMLE Step 1 to pass/fail.

Methods:

Separate electronic surveys were sent to program directors of ACGME-accredited otolaryngology programs (Cronbach’s alpha = .87), otolaryngology house-staff (Cronbach’s alpha = .91), and medical students interested in otolaryngology (Cronbach’s alpha = .76).

Results:

Among the 51 otolaryngology program directors that completed the survey (response rate of 46.8%), 17.6% favored reporting USMLE Step 1 as pass/fail. A majority believed the reporting change would make it more difficult to screen (74.5%) and objectively compare applicants (82.4%). Step 2 CK scores will be more important to most program directors due to the reporting change (83.7%). Of the 93 house-staff that completed surveys, most did not favor the reporting change (61.3%). Over half (54.0%) of the 87 medical students that completed surveys did not support the scoring change, and most (65.5%) did not feel that it would decrease anxiety around residency applications (65.5%). Most house-staff and medical students felt that the scoring change would put non-U.S. MD students at a disadvantage (65.6% of house-staff, 69.8% of medical students).

Conclusion:

Most survey respondents do not agree with the decision to report Step 1 as pass/fail. Despite its intended goals, most do not believe pass/fail Step 1 reporting will improve medical student well-being and believe it will put certain student populations at a greater disadvantage.
Mid-Infrared Reflectance Spectroscopy Based on External Cavity Quantum Cascade Lasers for Mineral Characterization
Authors: Vanier Francis , Parrot Anaïs , Padioleau Christian , Blouin Alain
Published: February 2022

Mineral characterization using tunable external cavity quantum cascade lasers for mid-infrared reflectance spectroscopy is presented. Reflection spectra taken on common minerals are shown along with their spectral variations. Measurements at different incident angles were also obtained to mimic in the field applications. Finally, spectra were obtained on mineral mixtures and their analysis assesses the quality and usability of the technique for mineral characterization.
Tension system design based on heated-mandrel winding process
Authors: Miao Yanan , Geng Yuru , Li Xiaoyu , Liu Xingpeng
Published: February 2022

Heated-mandrel winding is the main process of modern composite material molding because of its characteristics of winding and curing in one step. Winding tension is a key factor in the molding process and has an important impact on the molding effect. Excessive winding tension will cause the inner looseness and outer tightening, and too small winding tension will cause the outer looseness and inner tightening. In short, the stratification will occur during the curing as long as the winding tension value is not set properly, which will seriously affect the molding quality of composite materials. The tension system of single winding process is difficult to apply to the heated-mandrel winding process because winding and curing are separate in the traditional single winding process, there is no need to consider the diversification of parameter state caused by curing reaction in winding process. In the heated-mandrel process, the balance of forces between adjacent layers is broken, the stress changes in adjacent layers affected by the temperature field are considered during winding. The tension values are obtained by adopting the tension system model established in this paper and the traditional finite element iterative search calculation method is replaced by numerical analysis method. An analytical algorithm for the method of winding with tension as the interference fit of the thin layers is adopted in the calculation procedures and the nonlinear tension solution problem is converted into a linear displacement-stress calculation problem. The lengthy and complicated traditional tension calculation method is simplified.
GSDME Is Related to Prognosis and Response to Chemotherapy in Oral Cancer
Authors: Wang S. , Zhang M.J. , Wu Z.Z. , Zhu S.W. , Wan S.C. , Zhang B.X. , Yang Q.C. , Xiao Y. , Chen L. , Sun Z.J.
Published: February 2022

Gasdermin E (GSDME), as the major executive protein of pyroptosis, has been considered to be linked to antitumor immunity in recent years. However, the role of GSDME in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) remains to be elucidated. Here, by using a human OSCC tissue microarray, human OSCC tissue, and Tgfbr1/ Pten conditional knockout mice, we found that GSDME was strongly expressed in OSCC and that GSDME expression in primary tumors was higher than that in metastatic lymph nodes. In addition, GSDME expression in OSCC was positively related to better prognosis. Moreover, GSDME-mediated pyroptosis occurred upon stimulation with chemotherapy drugs, and functional knockdown of GSDME attenuated the cisplatin-induced antitumor effect. Consistent with these results, bioinformatic analysis indicated that GSDME expression was positively correlated with the sensitivity of a number of antitumor drugs approved by the US Food and Drug Administration. Inhibition of GSDME expression by small interfering RNA in SCC7 cells significantly increased the expression of the cancer stem cell markers, CD44 and ALDH1. Furthermore, multiplexed immunohistochemistry and flow cytometry indicated that the expression of GSDME positively correlated with tumor-infiltrating CD8+ T cells, granzyme B, and M1 phenotype macrophages. Collectively, these findings demonstrated that GSDME is a potential positive prognostic factor of OSCC, and GSDME-mediated pyroptosis induced by chemotherapy plays a role in antitumor response.
Decolonizing Indigenous Burial Practices in Aotearoa, New Zealand: A Tribal Case Study
Authors: McNeill Hinematau Naomi , Linda Buckley Hannah , Marunui Iki Pouwhare Robert
Published: February 2022

Before European contact, Māori disposed of the dead in environmentally sustainable ways. Revitalizing pre-colonial burial practices presents an opportunity for Māori to evaluate current practices and reconnect with their ancient tribal customs and practices. The research question asks: What is the decolonizing potential of urupā tautaiao (natural burials)? Paradoxically, environmentally unsustainable modern tangihanga (funerals) retain the ethos of customary funerary traditions. Urupā tautaiao presents an opportunity for iwi (tribes) to retain cultural integrity in the death space, without compromising Papatūānuku (earthmother). Methodologically, a Māori worldview frames an action research mindset. The study captures a tribal community’s exploratory journey into urupā tautaiao.
Screenertia: Understanding “Stickiness” of Media Through Temporal Changes in Screen Use
Authors: Brinberg Miriam , Ram Nilam , Wang Jinping , Sundar S. Shyam , Cummings James J. , Yeykelis Leo , Reeves Byron
Published: February 2022

Descriptions of moment-by-moment changes in attention contribute critical elements to theory and practice about how people process media. We introduce a new concept called screenertia and use new screen-capture methodology to empirically evaluate its occurrence. We unobtrusively obtained 400,000+ screenshots of 30 participants’ laptop screens every 5 seconds for 4 days to examine individuals’ attention to their screens and how the distribution of attention differs across media content. All individuals’ screen segments were best described by a log-normal survival function—evidence of screenertia. Consistent with the literature on uses and gratifications of media, news/entertainment activities were the most “sticky.” These findings indicate that screenertia is not only related to the level of interactivity of media content but is also related to its modality and agency. Discussion of the findings highlights the importance of theorizing, examining, and modeling the specific time scales at which media behaviors manifest and evolve.
Study Mullins effect of polyurethane reinforcement with halloysite nanotube by molecular dynamics simulation
Authors: Heidari Pebdani Mohammadreza
Published: February 2022

Molecular dynamics simulation was applied to study the irreversible strain through loading and unloading cyclic tests of polyurethane (PU) reinforced with halloysite nanotube (HNT). The influences of the stretching cycle rate, different temperatures, the volume of halloysite nanotube and the density rate of the hard and soft domain of PU were studied on the permanent set. The results illustrate that the residual strain was increasing when the stretching loading is increasing, for example, with increasing strain load to 250% the residual strain increased to 55%. In contrast, the increasing volume fraction of HNT and hard part content of PU lead to lower residual strain. The recovery of the permanent set is achievable by increasing temperature from 1 K to 200 K residual strain is decreased to 52%. An Ogden constitutive and the theory of pseudo-elasticity were adopted to simulate this composite in the ABAQUS software. This model has proposed a reasonable prediction of plastic deformation.
Yan Fu, John Seeley, and the Idea of Liberty
Authors: Li Sha
Published: February 2022

This article advances a more precise appreciation of Yan Fu’s idea of liberty based on a close and contextualized reading of his Lectures on Politics (1906), which he adapted from John Seeley’s Introduction to Political Science (1896). Yan’s creative interpretation of Seeley’s account of liberty exposes his own persistent views and tendencies. Specifically, Yan’s text adopts Seeley’s literal, neutral concept of liberty while extending its use as security against political tyranny. Yan shows consistent recognition of liberty in the latter sense, while his statist discourses expose potential tolerance of oppression for the sake of the collective good. Yan’s lectures also reveal his more limited libertarian spirit that underpinned his statism, brought out and conceptually strengthened by Seeley. This statism was, nevertheless, mitigated by the liberal dimensions he maintained. Overall, Yan’s idea of liberty is a highly complex one, meaning that a one-sided assessment as either liberal or nationalistic is untenable.
Cognitive Restructuring Before Versus After Exposure: Effect on Expectancy and Outcome in Individuals With Claustrophobia
Authors: Krause Kirstyn L. , Koerner Naomi , Antony Martin M.
Published: February 2022

Maximizing the discrepancy between expected and actual outcomes during exposure (i.e., expectancy violation) is thought to optimize inhibitory learning. The current study examined Craske et al.’s suggestion that engaging in cognitive restructuring (CR) before exposure prematurely reduces expectancy and mitigates outcomes. Participants ( N = 93) with claustrophobia were randomly assigned to either 15 minutes of CR before exposure ( CR Before) or 15 minutes of CR after exposure ( CR After). Although the CR Before condition experienced greater expectancy reduction before exposure than the CR After condition, both groups experienced similar overall expectancy reduction by the end of the intervention. Groups experienced similar gains, with large significant improvement at posttreatment and follow-up. Results suggest that both cognitive therapy and exposure therapy lead to expectancy reduction, but that the order of these interventions does not impact outcome. Clinicaltrials.org registration #NCT03628105.