bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Naive Bayesian Prediction of Japanese Annotated Corpus for Textual Semantic Word Formation Classification
Authors: Hao Zhoushao
Published: March 2022

With the rapid development of Japanese information processing technology, problems such as polysemy and ambiguity at the text and dialogue level, as well as unregistered words, have become increasingly prominent because computers cannot fully “understand” the semantics of words. How to make the computer “understand” the semantics of words accurately requires the computer to “understand” the rules of converting and integrating words into words from the perspective of semantics. Traditional Japanese text classification mostly adopts the text representation method of vector space model, which has the problem of confusing classification effect. Therefore, this paper proposes the topic of constructing a semantic word formation pattern prediction model based on a large-scale annotated corpus. This paper proposes a solution that combines Japanese semantic word formation rules with pattern recognition algorithms. Aiming at this scheme, a variety of pattern recognition algorithms were compared and analyzed, and the naive Bayesian model was decided to predict semantic word formation patterns. This paper further improves the accuracy of computer prediction of Japanese semantic word formation patterns by adding part of speech. Before modeling, the parts of speech of words are automatically tagged and manually checked based on the original annotated corpus. In the research on predicting Japanese semantic word formation patterns, this paper builds a semantic word formation pattern prediction model based on Naive Bayes and conducts simulation experiments. We divide the eight types of semantic word formation patterns in the annotated corpus into two groups, and divide the obtained sample sets into training sets and test sets, so that the Naive Bayes model first learns semantic word formation rules based on the training sets of each group. Semantic word formation patterns are predicted on the test set for each group. The simulation results show that the prediction model of semantic word formation mode has a generally high degree of fit and prediction accuracy. The prediction model of semantic word formation pattern based on this theory can ensure that the computer can judge the semantic word formation pattern more accurately.
Improving Minimum Cross‐Entropy Thresholding for Segmentation of Infected Foregrounds in Medical Images Based on Mean Filters Approaches
Authors: Jumiawi Walaa Ali H. , El-Zaart Ali
Published: March 2022

Mean‐based thresholding methods are among the most popular techniques that are used for images segmentation. Thresholding is a fundamental process for many applications since it provides a good degree of intensity separation of given images. Minimum cross‐entropy thresholding (MCET) is one of the widely used mean‐based methods for images segmentation; it is based on a classical mean that remains steady and limited value. In this paper, to improve the efficiency of MCET, dedicated mean estimation approaches are proposed to be used with MCET, instead of using the classical mean. The proposed mean estimation approaches, for example, alpha trim, harmonic, contraharmonic, and geometric, tend to exclude the negative impact of the undesired parts from the mean computation process, such as noises, local outliers, and gray intensity levels, and then provide an improvement for the thresholding process that can reflect good segmentation results. The proposed technique adds a profound impact on accurate images segmentation. It can be extended to other applications in object detection. Three data sets of medical images were applied for segmentation in this paper, including magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) Alzheimer’s, MRI brain tumor, and skin lesion. The unsupervised and supervised evaluations were used to conduct the efficiency of the proposed method.
A Positive Answer on Nirenberg’s Problem on Expansive Mappings in Hilbert Spaces
Authors: Asfaw Teffera M.
Published: March 2022

Nirenberg proposed a problem as to whether or not a continuous and expansive operator

T
:
X
⟶
X

(where

X

is a Hilbert space) is surjective if

R

T

∘

≠
∅

. I shall give a positive answer for the problem provided that

R

T

∘

is unbounded. For contents related to this paper, the reader is referred to the remarks and the study of Asfaw (2021). The present paper gives a complete answer for the problem that has been open for about 47 years.
Expert-Group Practical Advice on Insulin Initiation and Titration for Patients with Type 2 Diabetes in the Gulf Region
Authors: Hassanein Mohammed , Al Dahi Walid , Radhi Husain Taha , AIMahfouz Abdulraouf , Al Kaabi Juma , Alshammari Abdulmuhsen , Alfutaisi Abdullah , AlMalki Mussa H. , Malik Rayaz
Published: March 2022

The type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) management represents a major challenge in the Gulf region. Hyperglycemia is a major risk factor for microvascular and macrovascular complications and increased mortality. Early dietary and lifestyle changes alongside a step-wise targeted pharmacological approach to achieve a glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) level of <7% are recommended to limit these complications. However, achievement of this HbA1c target remains a major challenge, especially in the Gulf region. Both physician and patient-led barriers limit timely initiation and titration of insulin. An expert-group advisory committee reviewed the current guideline recommendations, strategized best practice, and curated clinical practical advices to enable primary-care physicians to optimally initiate and titrate insulin in patients with T2DM.
Secondary Sclerosing Cholangitis in a Critically Ill Patient with Severe SARS-CoV-2 Infection: A Possibly Emergent Entity during the Current Global Pandemic
Authors: Morão Bárbara , Revés Joana Branco , Nascimento Catarina , Loureiro Rui , Glória Luísa , Palmela Carolina
Published: March 2022

A 46-year-old woman without previous history of hepatobiliary disease was admitted to the intensive care unit due to SARS-CoV-2 infection. Admission blood tests revealed impending hyperinflammation in the context of systemic inflammatory response syndrome. She required 12 days of mechanical ventilation and vasopressor support. After admission, liver function tests became deranged in a cholestatic pattern and continued to worsen despite overall clinical improvement. Magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography revealed liver abscesses, intrahepatic bile duct dilation with multiple strictures and some linear repletion defects at the bifurcation of the common hepatic duct. During endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography, biliary casts were retrieved confirming the diagnosis of secondary sclerosing cholangitis in the critically ill patient triggered by a severe SARS-CoV-2 infection. Other causes of cholestasis and secondary sclerosing cholangitis were properly excluded. We present an illustrative case and discuss the current literature, focusing on SARS-CoV-2 infection contribution to the development of this potentially underdiagnosed and severe condition.
Transscleral Cyclophotocoagulation for the Treatment of Uncontrolled Glaucoma in a Boston Keratoprosthesis Type II Patient
Authors: Orive Bañuelos Ana , Arana Larrea Begoña , Crnej Alja , Arce Soto Ana , Andollo Victoriano Noelia , Etxebarria Ecenarro Jaime
Published: March 2022

Postoperative endoscopic cyclophotocoagulation (CPC) for the treatment of glaucoma in patients with Boston keratoprosthesis type II (BKPro II) was first described in 2017 by Poon et al. (Endoscopic cyclophotocoagulation for the treatment of glaucoma in Boston keratoprosthesis type ii patient. J Glaucoma. 2017 Apr;26(4):e146–9). As we do not have this device, we present a case of transscleral CPC (TSCPC), in a BKPro II patient who had graft versus host disease and developed uncontrolled glaucoma. We dissected plane by plane to expose the bare sclera and performed the procedure as traditionally described. We concluded that this is a safe, controlled, and effective option in this patient population where the glaucoma treatment options are very limited. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case report to describe the surgical technique of TSCPC in a BKPro II patient.
Transient Visual Obscurations as the Presenting Symptom of Papilledema from COVID-19-Related Cerebral Venous Sinus Thrombosis
Authors: Cioana Milena , Ranalli Paul J. , Micieli Jonathan A.
Published: March 2022

Coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) patients are at an increased risk of cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST). Rapid diagnosis and treatment are vital to ensure a favorable outcome for CVST, so clinicians need to be aware of all its potential presentations. We describe a unique case where transient visual obscurations (TVOs) from papilledema were the presenting symptoms of COVID-19-related CVST. A 43-year-old woman, who had tested positive for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 1 month earlier, developed holocephalic headache, TVOs, and bilateral disc edema. She did not seek medical attention until she developed TVOs. Visual acuity was 20/20 and Humphrey visual field testing showed enlarged blind spots in both eyes. She was diagnosed with papilledema and underwent magnetic resonance imaging and magnetic resonance venography of the brain, which revealed right transverse sinus thrombosis. Lumbar puncture was performed, showing elevated opening pressure and normal cerebrospinal fluid contents. Her optic disc edema resolved and visual function remained normal 6 weeks following warfarin and topiramate therapy. Recanalization of the right transverse sinus occurred after 3 months. Although rare, TVOs are important presenting symptoms of COVID-19-related CVST. Ophthalmologists, who may be the first physicians to assess patients with this presentation, should be aware of TVOs as potential presenting symptoms of CVST, so diagnoses can be made in a timely manner.
Long Noncoding RNA MEG3-205/Let-7a/MyD88 Axis Promotes Renal Inflammation and Fibrosis in Diabetic Nephropathy
Authors: Luo Qimei , Xia Xi , Luo Qingqing , Qiu Yue , Dong Lan , Zhao Chen , Peng Fenfen , Yu Jing , Huang Fengxian , He Feng
Published: March 2022

Aim: The aim of this study was to investigate the role and mechanism of long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) maternally expressed gene 3 (MEG3)-205 in renal inflammation and fibrosis in diabetic nephropathy (DN). Materials and Methods: lncRNA microarray profiling was used to examine differentially expressed lncRNAs of kidney tissues in db/db mice compared to db/m mice. Mouse mesangial cells (mMCs) were cultured in vitro with advanced glycation end products (AGEs) via transfection with lncRNA MEG3-205 siRNAs or plasmids. The role of lncRNA MEG3-205 in vivo was examined in db/db mice treated with long-acting lncRNA MEG3-205 siRNA. The interaction between lncRNA MEG3-205 and let-7a was investigated using luciferase assay and RNA immunoprecipitation assay. Results: lncRNA MEG3-205 was markedly upregulated in renal tissues of db/db mice, DN patients, and AGEs-treated mesangial cells. Overexpression of lncRNA MEG3-205 promoted the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines and synthesis of extracellular matrix proteins in mesangial cells. Both lncRNA MEG3-205 and myeloid differentiation primary-response protein 88 (MyD88) could bind to let-7a, and lncRNA MEG3-205 overexpression can significantly rescue the silencing effect of let-7a on MyD88 protein expression in mMCs. Mechanistically, we identified that lncRNA MEG3-205 could act as a competing endogenous RNA by binding with let-7a and thus regulate MyD88. Knockdown of lncRNA MEG3-205 alleviated albuminuria and attenuated renal inflammation and fibrosis in db/db mice. Conclusion: These findings indicated an important role of the lncRNA MEG3-205/let-7a/MyD88 axis in regulating renal inflammation and fibrosis in DN. Targeting lncRNA MEG3-205 might present a promising therapeutic strategy for DN.
N6-Methyladenosine Demethylase FTO (Fat Mass and Obesity-Associated Protein) as a Novel Mediator of Statin Effects in Human Endothelial Cells
Authors: Mo Wentao , Chen Ziqi , Zhang Xiaozhe , Dai Gang , Ma Dongwei , Pan Jiajie , Zhang Xinxia , Wu Guifu , Fan Wendong
Published: March 2022

Background:

N6-methyladenosine (m6A) plays a critical role in various biological processes. However, no study has addressed the role of m6A modification in the statin-induced protection of endothelial cells (ECs).

Methods:

Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and Western blotting analyses were used to study the expression of m6A regulatory genes in atorvastatin-treated ECs. Gain- and loss-of-function assays, methylated RNA immunoprecipitation analysis, and dual-luciferase reporter assays were performed to clarify the function of FTO (fat mass and obesity-associated protein) in ECs.

Results:

Atorvastatin decreased FTO protein expression in ECs. The knockdown of FTO enhanced the mRNA and protein expression of KLF2 (Kruppel-like factor 2) and eNOS (endothelial NO synthase) but attenuated TNFα (tumor necrosis factor alpha)-induced VCAM-1 (vascular cell adhesion molecule 1) and ICAM-1 (intercellular adhesion molecule 1) expression, as well as the adhesion of monocytes to ECs. Conversely, FTO overexpression significantly upregulated the mRNA and protein levels of VCAM-1 and ICAM-1, downregulated those of KLF2 and eNOS, and strongly attenuated the atorvastatin-mediated induction of KLF2 and eNOS expression. Subsequent investigations demonstrated that KLF2 and eNOS are functionally critical targets of FTO. Mechanistically, FTO interacted with KLF2 and eNOS transcripts and regulated their expression in an m6A-dependent manner. After FTO silencing, KLF2 and eNOS transcripts with higher levels of m6A modification in their 3′ untranslated regions were captured by YTHDF3 (YT521-B homology m6A RNA-binding protein 3), resulting in mRNA stabilization and the induction of KLF2 and eNOS protein expression.

Conclusions:

FTO might serve as a novel molecular target to modulate endothelial function in vascular diseases.
“Our πολίτευμα Belongs in Heaven” (Phil 3:20)
Authors: Muir Alex W.
Published: March 2022

This article argues that Paul’s narrative about collective πολίτευμα in heaven (Phil 3:20) constitutes a moment of climactic consolation in the letter to the Philippians. This position is reached through an extended comparison with Seneca’s On Consolation to Mother Helvia (Ad Helviam). It emerges that similar narratives of consolation are constructed in the Ad Helviam and Phil 3:15–21. In both texts, adversity is recognised and rationalised, before it is defied then transcended through rhetorical and cosmological arguments. There are, however, also differences owing to Paul’s and Seneca’s different contexts: in particular, the threat of certain Judaizing opponents to Paul’s gospel in Philippi.
Name Theology in John 1:14
Authors: Oh DongWoo
Published: March 2022

In his recent studies, Jörg Frey has proposed that the biblical tradition of Shekhina can be discerned in the expression of the Logos’s dwelling among the believers in John 1:14. Interacting with Frey, this study proposes that Name theology, which account for the temple’s connection with the name of the Lord in the Old Testament, is utilized in John 1:14. The name of the Lord in connection with the temple can be a useful resource to explain the paradoxical identity of the Logos as well as the usage of the glory in the verse. Furthermore, this Name theology can coexist with the biblical tradition of Shekhina in John 1:14.
Constitutional Changes in Populist Times
Authors: Szente Zoltán
Published: March 2022

The article examines the impacts of populist government in Hungary on constitutional law since 2010. The criterion of the analysis is whether the comprehensive and radical changes that took place during this time have been characterized by the distinctive traits, ambitions and values that the scholarship attributes to populism and ‘populist constitutionalism’, above all anti-elitism, anti-institutionalism, anti-pluralism, the emphasis on popular sovereignty and direct democracy, and an instrumental conception of law. For this purpose, it examines the major changes in the constitutional rules and practice of sovereignty issues, the system of separation of powers, and fundamental rights. The article consists of four parts. In the first chapter, sovereignty issues are discussed including the changing approach of constituent power, constitutional identity, and the interpretation of sovereignty through an analysis of the 2011 Fundamental Law and its eight amendments. The study then reviews the changes in the system of separation of powers, that is, the transformation of the legal status and operational practices of the most important public law institutions. The next chapter provides a qualitative analysis of the situation of fundamental rights, in particular the trends in the renewed regulation of constitutional liberties and political freedoms. In addition, this part gives an assessment of the current state of institutional protection of constitutional rights. Finally, the last chapter seeks to answer the question of how the cumulative effects of these changes can be assessed; whether Hungary follows a new, specific path of constitutional development, or the constitutional changes can be interpreted within the framework of the constitutional democracy formed after the 1989/90 regime change.
Illegal Legality and the Façade of Good Faith – Migration and Law in Populist Hungary
Authors: Hoffmann Tamás
Published: March 2022

Hungarian migration regulation has undergone a radical transformation since 2015, resulting in a system that essentially deprives asylum seekers of any international protection. This was a strategic move by the government to portray itself as the defender of Hungary and even Europe of the menace of uncontrolled migration. This article critically analyzes this transformation by first giving a comprehensive account of the major legislative changes and showing how they were framed to boost the populist political propaganda of the government. Then it argues that even though such populist legalism is in clear contravention of Hungary’s international legal obligations and thus constitute bad faith action, the European Union is still powerless to effectively oppose these measures since its own asylum policies are aimed at maintaining “Fortress Europe”, i.e. restricting irregular migration as much as possible through legal and informal measures. In conclusion, the only real antidote to populist legalism would be acting in good faith.
Sectoral Special Taxes in Hungary as Instruments of a Populist Fiscal Policy: A Legal Analysis
Authors: Varju Marton , Papp Mónika
Published: March 2022

In order to meet a variety of locally relevant socio-economic expectations and needs, Hungarian tax policy in the last decade has applied a number of unconventional instruments. The government favored in particular the imposition of additional taxes on corporate taxpayers in specific sectors of the national economy. The taxation of turnover in addition to corporate profits has proved to be a particularly attractive idea. These measures pursue declared objectives which any national government that is faithful to its political mandate could endorse as its own. However, the design of these taxes and their related regulatory hiatuses, which have been subject to extensive scrutiny before the courts of the European Union, raise the possibility of their abusive and discriminatory use to the disadvantage of select individuals, in particular non-national corporate taxpayers. This element of contemporary Hungarian tax policy may well be considered as forming part of the government’s populist policy agenda.
A new nothospecies in Lagerstroemia (Lythraceae)
Authors: WHITTEMORE ALAN T. , SCHORI MELANIE
Published: March 2022

N/A
Accidental monstrosities: Taxonomic chimeras in Ostracoda (Crustacea)
Authors: DANIELOPOL DAN L. , NAMIOTKO TADEUSZ , HORNE DAVID J.
Published: March 2022

Taxonomic chimeras, artificial taxa created unintentionally by amalgamation of morphological traits belonging to different taxonomic units, can be found in 19th century to present day scientific literature. We recognise two types of such artefacts in Ostracoda. Chimera Type 1 is represented by species defined by morphological traits belonging to two (or more) different valid taxa at the rank of species. A thorough comparative analysis of carapace and limb characteristics of Fabaeformiscandona balatonica (Daday) sensu Bronshtein (1947) allows us to conclude that it is a chimera comprising F. balatonica and F. levanderi (Hirschmann), for which we provide new, expanded diagnoses. Chimera Type 2 refers to a genus defined by juvenile morphological traits that also occur in other genera. Analysis of Candoniella Schneider, 1956 shows it to be an artefact based on morphological traits belonging to juveniles of at least three genera: Pseudocandona Kaufmann, 1900, Fabaeformiscandona Krstić, 1972 and Neglecandona Krstić, 2006. Elimination of taxonomic artefacts is necessary to improve not only taxonomy but also adjacent domains of investigation like the ecology and geographical distribution of confused taxa. Considered in historical contexts, the creation and perpetuation of such accidental monstrosities may be attributed to social motivations as well as limitations of material, literature and communication.
Description of Chaetocladius (Chaetocladius) spiridonovi sp. nov. from the Russian Arctic Region (Diptera, Chironomidae)
Authors: KRASHENINNIKOV ANDREY B. , TANADBAEVA DANA A. , VSHIVKOVA KRISTINA A.
Published: March 2022

The male adult of Chaetocladius (Chaetocladius) spiridonovi sp. nov. is described and diagnosed based on morphological and phylogenetic data. The new species is characterized by the following features: anal point very long, almost reaching apex of gonocoxite, presence of a dorsal hump at base; inferior volsella sub-rectangular to large lobe shaped, inner and caudal margin with undulation; virga composed of 2 long spines; gonostylus massively globular with rounded posterior margin. Comparison of COI with that of other known Chaetocladius species shows a K2P genetic distances of 8.92–20.31%, values well associated with interspecific variation. The barcodes of the new species were identical to that of Chaetocladius sp. 7ES in BOLD systems. Molecular data were also used for the reconstruction of the phylogenetic relationships within the subgenus Chaetocladius.
Replacement of names for two armoured scale genera (Hemiptera: Coccomorpha: Diaspididae) due to homonymy
Authors: MENG SHITAO , XING JICHUN
Published: March 2022

Two generic names in the family Diaspididae (Hemiptera: Coccomorpha) were discovered to be homonyms. We propose a replacement name for each of these genera, to bring the taxonomy of scale insects into accordance with the International Code of Zoological Nomenclature (ICZN 1999).
A Short History of Transport in Japan from Ancient Times to the Present
Authors: Black John Andrew
Published: March 2022

A Short History of Transport in Japan from Ancient Times to the Present is a unique study: the first by a Western scholar to place the long-term development of Japanese infrastructure alongside an analysis of its evolving political economy. Drawing from New Institutional Economics, Black offers an historically informed critique of contemporary planning using the example of Japan’s historical institutions, their particular biases, and the power they have exerted over national and local transport, to identify how reformed institutional arrangements might develop more sustainable and equitable transport services.

With chapters addressing each major form of transport, Black examines the predominant role of institutions and individuals – from seventeenth-century shoguns to post-war planners – in transforming Japan’s maritime infrastructure, its roads and waterways, and its adoption of rail and air transport. Using a multidisciplinary, comparative, and chronological approach, the book consults a range of technical, cultural, and political sources to tease out these interactions between society and technology.

This spirited new contribution to transport studies will attract readers interested in institutional power, the history of transport, and the development of future infrastructure, as well as those with a general interest in Japan.
Rethinking Warning Compliance and Complacency by Examining How People Manage Risk and Vulnerability during Real-World Tornado Threats
Authors: Demuth Julie L. , Vickery Jamie , Lazrus Heather , Henderson Jen , Morss Rebecca E. , Ash Kevin D.
Published: March 2022

The weather community has a keen interest in whether or not people comply with tornado warnings by taking shelter when a tornado threatens. When people do not seek shelter, a commonly attributed reason is that they are complacent due to overwarning, false alarms, routine exposure and experience with tornadoes and warnings, or time between damaging events. Yet, there is a lack of research that focuses on whether people are actually complacent, i.e., whether they ignore or are unwilling to prepare for the threat. We explore whether people exhibit these indicators of complacency by examining how people assessed their risk and responded during real-world tornado threats and how vulnerability influenced these processes. Our analysis is based on in-person interviews with 23 survivors of two deadly EF3 tornadoes that occurred approximately 50 miles apart and within 12 h of each other. Contrary to a threat-disbelieving, threat-ignoring, nonpreparing, and thus complacent public, we instead found that people actively managed their risk from the tornadoes, meaning they actively attended to, evaluated, and responded to the tornado risk as it evolved in space and time. We further found, however, that many people felt limited or lack of efficacy to respond due to static and situational factors that resulted in them having no safe place to seek protection from the threat. Based on this rich, nuanced analysis, we provide recommendations about important ways that the weather community and its partners can mitigate the risks people face from tornadoes, now and in the long term.
Putting the Significance of Spectral Peaks on the Level: Implications for the 1470-Yr Peak in Greenland δ18O
Authors: Huybers Peter
Published: March 2022

Spectral analysis of the Greenland Ice Sheet Project 2 (GISP2) δ18O record has been interpreted to show a 1/(1470 yr) spectral peak that is highly statistically significant (p < 0.01). The presence of such a peak, if accurate, provides an important clue about the mechanisms controlling glacial climate. As is standard, however, statistical significance was judged relative to a null model, H0, consisting of an autoregressive order one process, AR(1). In this study, H0 is generalized using an autoregressive moving-average process, ARMA(p, q). A rule of thumb is proposed for evaluating the adequacy of H0 involving comparing the expected and observed variances of the logarithm of a spectral estimate, which are generally consistent insomuch as removal of the ARMA structure from a time series results in an approximately level spectral estimate. An AR(1), or ARMA(1, 0), process is shown to be an inadequate representation of the GISP2 δ18O structure, whereas higher-order ARMA processes result in approximately level spectral estimates. After suitably leveling GISP2 δ18O and accounting for multiple hypothesis testing, multitaper spectral estimation indicates that the 1/(1470 yr) peak is insignificant. The seeming prominence of the 1/(1470 yr) peak is explained as the result of evaluating a spectrum involving higher-order ARMA structure and the peak having been selected on the basis of its seeming anomalous. The proposed technique for evaluating the significance of spectral peaks is also applicable to other geophysical records.

Significance Statement

A suitable null hypothesis is necessary for obtaining accurate test results, but a means for evaluating the adequacy of a null hypothesis for a spectral peak has been lacking. A generalized null model is presented in the form of an autoregressive, moving-average process whose adequacy can be gauged by comparing the observed and expected variance of log spectral density. Application of the method to the GISP2 δ18O record indicates that spectral structure found at 1/(1470 yr) is statistically insignificant.
Pattern of sudden cardiac deaths
Authors: Sharma Gaurav , Hugar Basappa S , Praveen S , P Yajaman Girish Chandra , Kanchan Tanuj
Published: March 2022

Background and objective

Sudden cardiac death can be defined as a sudden, unexpected death caused by loss of heart function. Notwithstanding major developments in the diagnosis and treatment of heart disease, it remains the major contributing factor for deaths. This considers the pattern of sudden cardiac deaths. Methodology: This prospective study was conducted on all cases subjected to medico-legal autopsy in the forensic medicine department at a tertiary care hospital for a period of 18 months. All sudden cardiac deaths satisfying the WHO criteria were included. Unknown cases and bodies in advanced stage of decomposition were excluded.

Results

Sudden cardiac deaths accounted for 55% (82 cases) of 149 cases of sudden natural deaths and 6.5% of total autopsies conducted. The age group most commonly affected by sudden cardiac death ranged from 31 to 50 years. The majority of the cadavers had 90–95% degree of stenosis of left anterior descending artery, 70–80% of right coronary artery and 60–70% left circumflex artery. Coronary insufficiency was the major cause for sudden cardiac deaths with a total of 53 (64.63%) cases.

Conclusion

Sudden cardiac deaths accounted for 6.5% of all the autopsies conducted and males outnumbered females with M:F ratio of 10.7:1, with mean age of 44.5 ± 12.63 years. The largest number – 60.97% – were aged between 31 and 50 years. Coronary insufficiency accounted for 64.63% of sudden cardiac deaths.
Computation of parametric uncertainty margin using stability boundary locus: An application to load frequency control
Authors: Sharma Jitendra , Hote Yogesh V , Prasad Rajendra
Published: March 2022

In this paper, computation of parametric uncertainty margin (PUM) of a system is explored. In the presence of parametric uncertainty, maintaining the stability of the system is a daunting task. In view of this, in this paper, a new methodology is proposed to determine the maximum parametric uncertainty or PUM that can be tolerated in an interval type proportional–integral (PI) controlled system so that the whole system remains robustly stable. In order to show the validity of the proposed approach, an example of interval type load frequency control (LFC) system is considered to determine the PUM numerically. The proposed approach utilizes the concept of Kharitonov’s theorem for the modeling of interval type systems and stability boundary locus (SBL) technique for the designing of PI controller. The PUM obtained using the proposed approach is compared by that achieved by Kharitonov’s rectangles and zero exclusion principle.
Lipid-storage myopathy with glycogen storage disease gene mutations mimicking polymyositis: a case report and review of the literature
Authors: Pan Xiaoli , Yuan Yuan , Wu Bangcui , Zheng Wendan , Tian Mei
Published: March 2022

A 26-year-old Asian woman with persistent muscle weakness was diagnosed with polymyositis based on biopsy findings at another hospital 11 years ago. However, her symptoms fluctuated repeatedly under treatment with prednisone and immunosuppressive agents, and worsened 2 months prior to the current presentation. A second muscle biopsy suggested metabolic myopathy, and genetic testing revealed a novel c.1074C > T variant in the glycogen synthase 1 gene ( GYS1), which is implicated in muscle glycogen storage disease type 0. However, no abnormalities in glycogen deposition were found by biopsy; rather, muscle fibers exhibited large intracellular lipid droplets. Furthermore, muscle strength was greatly restored and circulating levels of creatine kinase indicative of muscle degeneration greatly reduced by vitamin B2 treatment. Therefore, the final diagnosis was lipid storage myopathy.
A novel objective evaluation method of drivability for passenger cars considering subjective and objective consistency
Authors: Zhou Wei , Guo Xuexun , Zhang Chengcai , Yan Jun , Xia Jialei
Published: March 2022

In this paper, aiming at the problems that the random mixed working conditions are difficult to identify, the insufficiency of drivability evaluation indicators system and the lack of robustness for the evaluation model, a novel objective evaluation method of drivability for passenger cars is proposed. First, combining the sliding time window method and Naive Bayesian model (NBM), a hybrid working condition recognition model of multi-source sensor information fusion is constructed, and the real vehicle test under random mixed working conditions shows that the accuracy of working condition identification can reach 95.6%. Then, the objective evaluation index for crawling conditions, starting conditions and tip-in conditions are studied according to the suggestions of subjective evaluation engineers, an objective indicator evaluation system considering expert knowledge and information redundancy between indicators is constructed, among them, R-type clustering and principal component analysis (PCA) are used to eliminate the information redundancy between objective indicators. Finally, based on the back propagation (BP) neural network to optimize the fuzzy membership function, an improved fuzzy comprehensive evaluation (Improve-FCE) method considering subjective and objective consistency is designed. Real vehicle test and analysis results demonstrate that the development of intelligent drivability objective evaluation tool (I-DOET) has good reliability and stability, the maximum subjective and objective relative error of the improved FCE model is 5.13%, and the pass rate reaches 93.3%.
Russia, India, and China: Cooperation and New Role in the Development of International Relations
Authors: Glazev Sergey Y. , Arkhipova Violetta V.
Published: March 2022

The research explores the fundamental structural changes in the world economy resulting from the shifting of technological mode (TM) and world economic mode (WEM). Based on the theory of long cycles in economic development, we defined practical reasons for current escalation of international tension and substantiate the hypothesis of world economic center moving to Asia. The article reflects on new WEM image with mixed economy combining strategic planning and market competition mechanisms, state control over monetary system, private entrepreneurship following public interests while regulating capital accumulation processes and creative self-realization freedom for all. The research proves the inevitability of the world financial and economic system restructuring on the ground of international law restoration with respect to national sovereignty, paying special attention to the extension of contractual legal relations in issuance of world currencies and regulating circulation, capital market regulation, information technologies, and international media space. We present ideas for creating a broad coalition of the Eurasian countries to speed up transition to a new WEM and thus prevent a world war. The leading role of India, Russia and China in this process is of special interest. Focusing on comparative analysis of current American-centric order and new emerging WEM, we predict the end of liberal globalization and strengthening of interstate cooperation. The article substantiates the hypothesis that global economic development in the twenty-first century will be determined by peaceful and constructive competition between two political systems of the new WEM: Indian and Chinese.
Identity work at the intersection of dirty work, caste, and precarity: How Indian cleaners negotiate stigma
Authors: Mendonca Avina , D’Cruz Premilla , Noronha Ernesto
Published: March 2022

Drawing from in-depth interviews of cleaners employed in the cleaning industry in India, the study examines the ongoing process of constructing a positive identity among dirty workers. Cleaners respond to the intense identity struggles emerging from caste stigma, dirty taint, and precarity by constructing ambivalent identities. Cleaners’ identity work is constituted by the very identity struggles they encounter, and their efforts to negotiate stigmatized identities further create identity tensions. Apart from accenting the paradoxical duality inhered in identity work, the findings show how caste/class inequalities are reworked in a neoliberal milieu and reproduced in identity construction processes. The findings call attention to caste as an important social category in organizational studies that has implications for work identities, dirty work, and precarious work.
Challenges and opportunities for collective action and unionization in local games industries
Authors: Keogh Brendan , Abraham Benjamin
Published: March 2022

The games industry has seen a burst of new interest in the prospect of unionization. The efforts of organizations like Game Workers Unite have attracted much favorable coverage in the enthusiast and trade industry press, increasing awareness amongst videogame audiences of the difficult working conditions facing professional game developers. However, often missing from these discussions is an articulation of what unionization would look like for the significant number of game developers working in precarious conditions in small, often informal teams. The fragmented nature of contemporary gamework presents challenges in aggregating worker power similar to those found in other fields of creative or precarious work and entrepreneurial careers, where contingent work is typically organized around piecemeal, project–based funding arrangements. In this paper we draw from empirical research with Australian game developers to identify a number of barriers to unionization posed by small-scale game production. We also identify how within these same circumstances, novel and alternative forms of solidarity and collective action are beginning to emerge. The article ultimately argues that any successful attempt to unionize videogame workers will need to both account for, and take advantage of, the complex situation of small-scale videogame production in local contexts.
Comparing the use of flipped classroom in combination with problem-based learning or with case-based learning for improving academic performance and satisfaction
Authors: Oliván-Blázquez Bárbara , Aguilar-Latorre Alejandra , Gascón-Santos Santiago , Gómez-Poyato Mª José , Valero-Errazu Diana , Magallón-Botaya Rosa , Heah Rachel , Porroche-Escudero Ana
Published: March 2022

Active learning methodologies, such as flipped classroom (FC), generate a higher level of student engagement, greater dynamism in learning and more significant interactions with course content. Some other active methodologies used in the academic environment are problem-based learning (PBL) and case study (CS). There are few studies that analyse FC combined with PBL class activities or with course-based learning (CBL) activities, however, in fact, there are no studies that analyse which combination of activities would lead to better academic performance and student satisfaction. The main aim of this study is to comparate FC methodology, combined with PBL activities or with CBL activities, in improving the academic performance of undergraduate social work students. This work also intends to analyse the level of satisfaction with the course and the methodology used. A class level randomisation study was performed. Both groups in the study used an FC active methodology, but group 1 applied this methodology with PBL, whereas group 2 applied it in conjunction with a CBL methodology. The students also had to do activities at home that were related to the PBL or CS methodology. There were significant differences in both categorical and quantitative exam scores, with the group that had applied the FC + PBL methodology achieving a higher grade in the exam and containing a higher percentage of students who passed or received merit and outstanding grades. In general, there was a good level of satisfaction in both groups and there were no significant differences across all items asked, except for ‘It helps critical thinking’ and ‘It helps to apply theory to assessment’, which were evaluated more favourably by the FC + CBL students.
Efficacy of Prophylactic Traditional Chinese Medicine on Skin Toxicity of Afatinib in EGFR Mutation-Positive Advanced Lung Adenocarcinoma: A Single-Center, Prospective, Double-Blinded, Randomized-Controlled Pilot Trial
Authors: Li Chia-Ling , Hsia Te-Chun , Yang Su-Tso , Chao Kun-San Clifford , Tu Chih-Yen , Chen Hung-Jen , Li Chia-Hsiang
Published: March 2022

Objectives:

To evaluate the efficacy of prophylactic traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) on skin toxicities in patients with advanced lung adenocarcinoma treated with first-line epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)-tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) in a randomized-controlled trial (RCT).

Materials and methods:

This pilot study was a prospective, single-center, double-blinded RCT. The study enrolled patients with a new diagnosis of locally advanced and metastatic lung adenocarcinoma harboring EGFR mutations who were treated with first-line afatinib from July 1, 2016 to December 31, 2017. Thirty patients who met the inclusion and exclusion criteria were assigned to the TCM and placebo groups with simple randomization. TCM and placebo were initiated at the same time as afatinib and were administered for 3 months. The survival of each subject was followed until 3 years.

Results:

There were 36 patients with newly diagnosed lung adenocarcinoma during the study period. After the exclusion of 6 patients, the remaining 30 patients were assigned to the TCM (n = 14) and placebo (n = 16) groups comprising the intention-to-treat population. The time to first skin toxicity was 22.3 days in the TCM group and 17.6 days in the placebo group (P = .510) in the per-protocol population. The analysis of the present pilot study results determined that the difference in time to first skin toxicity between the 2 groups would reach statistical significance with a sample size of 237 based on a power of 0.8. There were significant differences in certain subscales of quality of life between the TCM and placebo groups; however, there was no significant difference in progression-free survival or overall survival between the 2 groups.

Conclusions:

Integrative TCM may prolong the time to first skin toxicity in patients with advanced lung adenocarcinoma treated with first-line afatinib. Prophylactic TCM could delay skin toxicity of any grade and reduce the incidence of grade 3 skin toxicity. Future large-scale RCTs are warranted to validate these findings.

Trial Registration:

ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT05204758. Registered on 24 Jan 2022.
Substance misuse and driving
Authors: Cary Alexander E.
Published: March 2022

Drug misuse is common in the UK; inevitably, general practitioners treat patients who misuse drugs. Drug misuse and dependence can seriously impair driving ability. Driving while impaired by drug use poses a risk of criminal prosecution, as well as a risk of death or injury to the driver, their passengers and others. As doctors we have a duty of care to our patients and we are generally bound by confidentiality. However, we also have a wider duty of care to protect the general public from serious harm. This article looks at UK law alongside guidance from the General Medical Council and Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency to guide medical practice around this difficult area.
A Comparison of Hospital Area Measurement in Germany, Canada, Australia, and the United States: Part 1
Authors: Viergutz Hannah-Kathrin Silja , Apple Michael
Published: March 2022

Objectives:

This article compares national standards for area measurements of healthcare facilities in four countries and examines the risks and differences that can arise when comparing building areas of healthcare facilities internationally.

Background:

In the planning and management of healthcare facilities, the utilization and comparison of building floor areas plays a major role. Differences in terminology, classification, and methodology help to reduce planning and cost risks when applied on a local and national level. The proper allocation of building floor space is vital in the design of room programs, determination of floor space, construction costs, and operating costs.

Methods:

Each of the four hospital area measurement standards is compared to discern similarities and differences.

Results:

Most countries use a three-tier system of hospital area measurement: building gross area, department gross area, and department net area. Few differences were found between country standards for department area, though the German standards do not fully address this tier. Variation is found in whether a country includes certain functions in the hospital area—such as research space, shell space, or central energy plants—which can have a significant impact on the overall hospital area.

Conclusions:

This article informs further development of individual country standards and highlights principles to consider for international hospital area comparison.
Dental Service and Resource Needs during COVID-19 among Underserved Populations
Authors: Johnson V. , Brondani M. , von Bergmann H. , Grossman S. , Donnelly L.
Published: March 2022

Introduction:

In response to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak, dental services in British Columbia, Canada, were restricted to urgent and emergency cases between March 16 and May 18, 2020. It is unclear how the curtailment of oral health services has affected underserved populations who already often have limited access to dental care due to cost, fear, stigma, and discrimination.

Objectives:

To explore the experiences of underserved populations and their community organizations when accessing oral health services and information in British Columbia and identify their coping mechanisms employed during the curtailment of oral health care services.

Methods:

Semistructured, remote interviews were conducted with 13 staff and 18 members from 6 community-based organizations. These organizations serve men and women with a history of incarceration and/or experiencing poverty and homelessness, persons living with human immunodeficiency virus/AIDS, adults living with mental illness, and older adults in long-term care facilities. The interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and coded for emerging themes using NVivo 12 software. Thematic analysis was performed.

Results:

The pandemic raised concerns and hesitancy among underserved populations and further reduced access to care. In turn, those with unmet dental needs resorted to coping mechanisms, including turning to community support or medical services, self-management of dental issues, and not dealing with dental issues altogether. Community organizers and members outlined needed resources such as assistance navigating the dental care system, having a contact for dental-related questions, and member preparation for dental service changes, while emphasizing the importance of positive relationships with dental providers.

Conclusion:

Underserved populations who already face barriers to oral health care services experienced increased difficulty in addressing their oral health needs and concerns during the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. Strategies aimed at reaching out to this population and those who support them are needed to help mitigate negative coping strategies and increased oral health disparities.

Knowledge Transfer Statement:

This study depicts ways of addressing unmet oral health–related issues during the COVID-19 pandemic for underserved populations and their community organizations with policy implications as well as practical strategies.