bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Screening Obstructive Sleep Apnea in the Elderly: Evaluating Five Questionnaire-Based Tools
Authors: Chen Riken , Zhu Jinru , Yang Yitian , Liao Weifeng , Ye Weilong , Du Lianfang , Chen Mingdi , Zhang Yuan , Yao Weimin , Zheng Zhenzhen
Published: September 2024

Background
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) often leads to complications in the elderly. This study compares the usefulness of five screening tools for OSA in elderly patients.
Method
Data from elderly patients diagnosed with OSA, collected from the Sleep Medicine Center of the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University from January 2012 to June 2017, is analyzed. The sensitivity, specificity, predictive values, area under the curve (AUC), and diagnostic odds ratio (DOR) of the five screening tools are computed and compared.
Results
273 elderly patients with suspected OSA are included, of whom 189 are male (69.2%). The Berlin Questionnaire has an AUC of 0.670 (95%CI: 0.611–0.725) at different cut-off points. The sensitivity and specificity of the Berlin Questionnaire are noticeably high at 0.653 (0.587–0.719) and 0.608 (0.497–0.719), 0.699 (0.621–0.776) and 0.533 (0.449–0.616), and 0.803 (0.713–0.892) and 0.503 (0.433–0.572) when the AHI is 5, 15, and 30 times/hour, respectively. The GOAL Questionnaire has the highest DOR at AHI cut-off points of 5 and 15 times/hour, while Berlin has the highest DOR at an AHI cut-off point of 30 times/hour.
Conclusion
The Berlin Questionnaire is a preferred screening tool for suspected OSA in elderly patients aged 60 years and older.
Cemetery site selection using GIS-based extended fuzzy multi-criteria decision analysis in Hamedan city, western Iran
Authors: Mohammadi Seyed Davoud , Saedi Bahman
Published: September 2024

Siting of burial lands and localization of new cemeteries requires research to determine the geologically, environmentally, and socially optimum regions. This study aims to locate the most suitable places for new cemeteries in Hamedan City, Iran by developing a multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA) method. These days, MCDA has developed swiftly and has become a principal tool for researchers to challenge intricate decision problems. This procedure is based on the GIS analysis's fuzzy membership functions (FMFs). For cemetery site selection (CSS), ten criteria including geologic unit permeability, distance from faults, ease to excavation, slope, water table, distance from surface water, distance from roads, distance from landslides, distance from the residential area, and land use were utilized. The Fuzzy set theory was first compounded with an analytical hierarchy process (AHP) to make pairwise comparisons to compare CSS criteria for ranking the targets. Then, FMFs were used to specify the criteria weights to expand a CSS suitability map. Finally, a compatibility map was prepared by the fuzzy overlay analyses, and appropriate zones were identified and checked on the field. The results indicated that 46.25% of the study area is unsuitable, 48.60% is moderately suitable, and 5.15% is the most suitable area for cemetery construction. Also, the results obtained were shown almost all available cemeteries in the study area are located in unsuitable areas. The suggested procedure enables the researchers to better understand the perfect assessment process and prepare a more exact, efficient, and systematic intention support tool.
Assessment of Solar Radiation as a Power Generation Source in Nigeria
Authors: Awomewe Olumide E. , Odunmorayo Michael T.
Published: September 2024

The transition from fossil to renewable energy is becoming pressing and urgent due to the impact of fossil emissions on our environment, with an increase in population in Nigeria and greater energy demand, sites for solar energy facilities, solar farms, and photovoltaic application is crucial thereby the need for assessment to understand the potential and abundance of solar energy for regions in Nigeria is important for this transition. This study aims to understand solar radiation's distribution and variation (monthly and seasonal) and investigate regions where solar energy can be efficiently harnessed for energy generation. In this study, locations, divided by Nigeria's geopolitical zones (Northwest, Northeast, Northcentral, Southwest, Southeast, and South-south) where solar energy is abundant and can be efficiently harnessed for energy generation purposes over Nigeria were investigated using surface solar radiation, extraterrestrial radiation, and temperature obtained monthly for 34 years (1990–2023) and a model by Jie et al. The investigation focused on the monthly and seasonal variation and distribution of surface solar radiation, clearness index, and the estimated power from a single photovoltaic panel. The result shows that solar energy is abundant in Nigeria and at its peak during the dry season (DJF) and lesser during the wet season (JJA). Additionally, the northeast and the northwest receive higher solar radiation throughout the year than the other regions and it can be identified as a good site for solar energy facilities. All regions investigated in this study show a potential as a site for solar energy facilities and photovoltaic applications.
Severe pregnancy-associated atypical hemolytic uremia syndrome in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic: A novel survival case report
Authors: Yang Yan , Li Xiao-jin , Yuan Hua-Yan , xiong Jing-Jing , Li Peng-Fei , Wang Zhen
Published: September 2024

Background: Pregnancy-associated atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS) refers to the thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA)resulting from uncontrolled activation of the complement system during pregnancy or postpartum period. In the intensive care unit, it often becomes necessary to differentiate aHUS from sepsis-related multiple organ dysfunction, thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP), and hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes and low platelet (HELLP) syndrome. Early recognition of aHUS is critical for accurate treatment and prognosis. While ADAMTS13 test, peripheral blood broken red blood cell test, complement test, and blood culture are helpful in aHUS diagnosis, these tests are time consuming and may not be widely available. Herein, we present a case of a pregnant woman with severe aHUS during the corona virus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.
Case presentation: A 26-year-old patient with P4G1(four pregnancies and one delivery) at her 30 weeks and 2 days of pregnancy developed vaginal fluid and showed fetal growth restriction by ultrasound at an external hospital. During labor induction, the patient gradually developed high fever and abnormal coagulation function, followed by heart failure, acute kidney injury, anemia, and severe thrombocytopenia. The patient’s mind was clear and coherent and presented no neurological dysfunction. She was transferred to our department and was provided invasive respiratory support, blood transfusion, continuous renal replacement therapy, capacity management, and other comprehensive treatment. Given the ongoing COVID-19pandemic, ADAMTS13 test and complement blocker were unavailable. The team made a diagnosis of pregnancy-associated aHUS based on history, clinical presentation, and standard laboratory results. The patient was prescribed 13 sessions of hemodialysis. Re-examination after treatment revealed normal complement C3 and C4 levels, stable platelet and hemoglobin levels, and a gradual change in the liver function to normalcy. Her renal function gradually improved, and the bone marrow puncture showed no fragmented red blood cells. The patient was transferred to the department of nephrology on day 40 and back to the local hospital on day 42. The patient was followed over 3 years where she did not show any relapse of thrombocytopenia and microangiopathic hemolytic anemia.
Conclusions: This case reiterates the challenges and importance of diagnosis and treatment of severe pregnancy in a low-resource setting with complex comorbidities, including multiple organ failure and atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome.
Transcriptome- and genome-wide systematic characterization of bHLH transcription factor family identifies promising members that respond to abiotic stress in tomato
Authors: Zhang Jianling , Zhang Zhihuan , Liu Xiaoying , Li Jing , Zhu Mingku , Du Dan , Sun Yueying , Pan Yu
Published: September 2024

The bHLH (basic helix-loop-helix) transcription factors function as crucial regulators in numerous biological processes including abiotic stress responses and plant development. According to our RNA-seq analysis of tomato seedlings under salt stress, we found that although bHLH gene family in tomato has been studied, there are still so many tomato bHLH genes have not been identified and named, which will hinder the later study of SlbHLHs. Therefore, the identification of tomato bHLH gene family is lagging and further genome-wide systematical identification and characterization is necessary for tomato bHLH genes. Here, numerous members of different gene families were identified to be the potential and significant candidates that respond to salt stress by RNA-seq analysis. 195 SlbHLHs that unevenly distributed onto 12 chromosomes were identified from tomato genome and were classified into 26 subfamilies based on their molecular features. The collinearity between SlbHLHs and interrelated orthologs from ten plants further revealed evolutionary insights into SlbHLHs. Cis-elements investigations of SlbHLHs promotors futhrer suggested the potential roles of SlbHLHs in tomato development and stress responses. 30 SlbHLHs were defined as the differentially expressed genes in response to salt stress by RNA-seq. The expression profiles of selected SlbHLHs were varyingly and markedly induced by multiple abiotic stresses and hormone treatments. These results provide valuable foundations for further exploring the salt resistance mechanism of tomato and functional characterizations of SlbHLHs, and numerous SlbHLHs may function as the key regulators to enhance plant tolerance to abiotic stress.
Perception of Caregivers on ITN Utilisation and its Effectiveness among Under 5 Years Children in Chikwawa District, Malawi
Authors: Benito Enock , Suthar Praveen , Banda Godfrey , Ganguly Parthasarthi
Published: September 2024

Background
In 2020, Malawi had 6.9 million malaria cases and 2,551 deaths, mainly in children under five years of age. The 2017–2022 Malawi malaria control strategic plan promoted the consistent use of insecticide-treated nets through free distribution and mass campaigns. Despite its widespread availability, Chikwawa District remains severely affected by malaria due to inconsistent net usage. This study explored caregivers’ perceptions of insecticide-treated net utilisation and its effectiveness among children under five years of age in Chikwawa District, Malawi. The study was conducted in Chikwawa District, Malawi.
Methods
This study used a sequential exploratory mixed methods design with 96 participants, as determined by Cochran’s formula. It lasted from December 2023 to April 2024 and included four in-depth interviews and three focus group discussions.
Results
The study revealed that 91.67% of households used ITNs, with 87.50% using them daily. The significant factors influencing ITN utilisation included the number of nets, user satisfaction, perceived impact, user habits, acquisition method, and usage frequency (all p values < 0.001). Under-five malaria cases were also significant (p = 0.025). The odds of the perceived net impact influencing utilisation were 4.956 times greater. Non-usage was due to heat, quality concerns, limited access, breathing difficulties, health conditions such as asthma, and misconceptions about net treatment.
Conclusion
There was a strong belief in net efficacy, but challenges such as access, durability, and misinformation remained. The study explored barriers to net utilisation in Malawi, aligning with the journal's focus on health interventions and offering insights for policymakers.
Design of Operative Network in Enhancing Quality of Service and Security Using Hybrid General Adversarial Network with Cognitive Routing Protocol and Authenticated Cryptographic Intrusion Detection System
Authors: V Mangaiyarkarasi , S Malathi
Published: September 2024

Computing networks that are capable of supporting multimedia applications with complex QoS performance specifications are emerging. In order to ensure that the requisite QoS multimedia applications are guaranteed, there are currently various types of networks; wired and wireless, which coexist with each other. These networks have basically different QoS characteristics and the degree of heterogeneity of different QoS parameters, such as bandwidth, delay and jitter, differs considerably. There are numerous network design properties that can lead to congestion with an unregulated bandwidth network. Here consider the separate security [encryption / authentication] algorithm and its efficiency assessment for diff. Packet size and output for both ESP and QoS. The goal of this paper is to put all of this into perspective and to provide a holistic view of the need and value of building a QoS-enabled network. The network scalability and security has been enhanced by machine learning techniques with routing protocol integrated with authentication system. The QoS of the network has been improved by hybrid General Adversarial network with cognitive routing protocol. Security enhancement has been carried out by authenticated cryptographic intrusion detection system. The experimental results has been obtained based on network scalability and network security in terms of accuracy, precision, end-to- end delay, scalability, network throughput.
Supporting resilience-based coral reef management using broadscale threshold approaches
Authors: Burt April J. , Koester Anna , Bunbury Nancy , Haupt Philip , Walton Rowana , Fleischer-Dogley Frauke , Chong-Seng Karen M.
Published: September 2024

Managing coral reefs to maintain ecosystem function and maximise resilience requires identification of resilience indicators and clear ecological reference thresholds for reef managers to maintain or aim for. In the absence of local resilience-based targets, reef managers can conduct local-scale resilience assessments by collecting data on resilience indicators and comparing them to recently established broadscale thresholds which have been defined by incorporating large spatial variability. This study documents the application of these broadscale threshold approaches to kick-start resilience-based management at Aldabra Atoll UNESCO Marine World Heritage Site. Aldabra’s seaward coral reefs conformed to the expected resilience of a well-managed and remote marine reserve. All but one reef met or exceeded thresholds for each of the five assessed resilience indicators and fell within the ‘recover’ strategy of the management strategy analysis. Combining the individual indices into a synthetic index of resilience gave an atoll-level estimate of reefs having an 87.5% ‘chance of recovery’ post-disturbance. Reef resilience predictions largely aligned with our data on post-bleaching coral trajectories. We recommend additional broadscale threshold categories that could be defined and included in future assessments, and suggest local factors that need to be considered to fine-tune the assessments at site-level.
A Novel Four-CpG Prognostic Risk Score Model Predicts Survival and Guides Therapy in Patients with Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Shen Si , Li Qihong , Ning Bo , Bai Jin , Yuan Qing , Wang Jinhao , Wang Quannian , Liu Ying , Dong Qingyang , Zhang Pengcheng , Wang Xinxing , Chen Gang , Cao Yang
Published: September 2024

Accurate prognosis prediction of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is vital for guiding clinical decision-making. DNA methylation (DNAm) plays important roles in the regulation of gene expression and abnormal DNAm is a hallmark of cancers. This study aimed to develop a prognostic model for HNSCC based on DNAm changes that can regulate gene expression. Based on The Cancer Genome Atlas HNSCC dataset, we constructed a novel four-CpG (cg02409878, cg01984743, cg23867673, and cg01995815) prognostic risk score (FCPRscore) model. The FCPRscore showed good generalizability on both TCGA and independent validation datasets, and achieved better performance compared with nine existing RNA/DNAm-based prognostic models. Furthermore, the FCPRscore is an independent prognostic factor and can enhance the predictive power of established clinical predictors. The low-risk group showed a more immune-active tumor microenvironment (TME) and more sensitive to immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy, while the high-risk group benefited more from chemotherapy. In addition, STK3, a gene regulated by cg02409878, significantly reduced proliferation and migration ability of SCC15 cells after belumosudil-mediated inhibition or shRNA-mediated knockdown. Our study proposed a robust prognostic model of HNSCC, FCPRscore, which could serve a prognostic factor and a promising tool to guide therapy decisions for HNSCC.
Encounter with Encarsia cubensis, a new natural enemy of invasive woolly whitefly Aleurothrixus floccosus in India
Authors: Bhaskar Haseena , A Rameshkumar , R Sundararaj , M Nimisha A
Published: September 2024

This study documents the first occurrence of Encarsia cubensis Gahan (Hymenoptera: Aphelinidae) as a parasitoid of the woolly whitefly, Aleurothrixus floccosus (Maskell), in India. Morphological characterisation and analysis of the mitochondrial COI gene were carried out to determine the species. Field surveys revealed a significant level of parasitism above 70 per cent, highlighting the potential of E. cubensis in the natural regulation of the woolly whitefly on guava, which could have significant implications for pest management.
GsIRT3: a zinc-iron transporter gene from Glycine soja, enhancing pH stress tolerance in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Ding Deqiang , Nisa Zaib-un , Xu Liankun , Ali Naila , Usman Sheeraz , Shah Anis Ali , Shafique Shiffa , Gatasheh Mansour K. , Jin Xiaoxia , Chen Chao
Published: September 2024

ZIP family genes are known to play important roles in the transport of divalent metal ions such as zinc and iron. However, their roles in pH stress have not been well characterized so far. In this study, a ZIP (Zrt, Irt-like Protein) cDNA was isolated from wild soybean (Glycine soja) by RT-PCR, and named as GsIRT3. GsIRT3 displayed differential gene expression levels at different time points under alkali treatment in both roots and leaves. When expressed in yeast cells, the recombinant yeast pYES2-GsIRT3 was highly tolerant to iron deficiency stress and zinc deficiency stress. In addition, GsIRT3 overexpression lines of Arabidopsis thaliana were created by floral dip method for functional characterization of GsIRT3 under stress treatments. The results displayed that OX lines performed better under high pH stress than WT plants in terms of higher root lengths and fresh biomass. Physiological indicators assays showed that OX lines appeared with higher chlorophyll, low MDA, and H2O2 contents than WT plants under alkali stress. Further, CAT, POD and SOD activities increased in OX lines under alkali stress. The superoxide radicals were further assessed by NBT staining in which WT plants stained deep compared to OX lines. To further verify the role of GsIRT3 in stress mechanisms, expression levels of stress responsive marker genes (RD29A, COR15, KIN1, and H+ATP) were determined by qRT-PCR analysis and all marker genes showed high transcript expression in OX lines after stress application compared to WT. In last, functional characterization of GsIRT3 overexpression in soybean displayed better hairy root growth and increased fresh weight in OX lines compared to soybean WT (K599) line.These results clearly suggests the positive roles of GsIRT3 in pH stress tolerance mechanisms.
RF Power Amplifier Design Providing High Power Efficiency In A Wide Dynamic Range
Authors: Mehter Egemen , Üçüncü Murat
Published: September 2024

In this article, a power amplifier with 47 dBm (50W) output power in the frequency range of 1.7 GHz − 1.9 GHz, 60.1%-63.3% drain efficiency at maximum output power and 40.5%-46.8% drain efficiency at 6dB output back-off has been designed and manufactured by using LMBA technique. Microwave simulators were utilized in power amplifier design. The finalized design of the load modulated balanced power amplifier and its subsystems were manufactured. The produced LMBA system was tested at RFTR Elektronik A.Ş. facilities with calibrated RF measurement devices and various measurements were made. The measurements of the manufactured system and the simulation results were observed to be very close to each other. It has also been shown that the efficiency of the system increases both at maximum output power and at 6 dB output back-off when using the LMBA technique. In addition, the PA designed with the LMBA technique having 50 W minimum power, providing drain efficiency of 60% over the entire operating band at maximum power and drain efficiency of 40% or more at 6dB output back-off, it is seen that better results are obtained compared to similar studies in the literature.
A Comparative Sentiment Analysis of Digital and Robot Pet Companions in Various Locations
Authors: Purwadi Henny
Published: September 2024

This study is to find out whether geographic locations have an impact on emotion towards robotic and digital pet companions, using machine learning models and hypothesis testing. This investigation will show and assess different machine learning models for sentiment analysis on labeled datasets and pick the model with the best performance. This exploration will collect unlabeled data about digital robot companions from various regions, pre-process the information, and apply a chosen machine learning model to figure out sentiments in the unlabeled dataset. Then use chi-square to evaluate the connection between area and sentiment towards robot companions and find out whether there is a critical distinction in the sentiment between various locations. There will be discussion about the result, limitations, and its suggestions for understanding human-machine relationships in various zones. The investigation will give potential results for future research.
Socio-behavioral associates of Early Childhood Caries among preschool children aged three to four years in Gampaha district, Sri Lanka: A cross sectional study
Authors: Gunasinghe Kodikara Arachchige Mihiri Madhuka , Wijesinghe Millawage Supun Dilara , Ratnayake Nilantha Chaminda
Published: September 2024

Background
Early Childhood Caries (ECC) is a highly prevalent disease among preschoolers in Sri Lanka, and its prevalence has stagnated over the decades. Therefore, it is important to determine the socio-behavioural associations of ECC among preschoolers to reduce the country’s ECC burden.
Methods
A cross-sectional study using a multistage cluster sampling technique with a probability proportionate to size sampling was conducted to select three- to four-year-old preschoolers to determine the socio-behavioural associations of ECC among three to four-year-old preschoolers in the Gampaha district.
Results
The prevalence of ECC was 56.3% (95% CI: 53.1–59.3). Below mentioned factors were significantly associated with ECC. Consuming sweets between meals had a higher odds ratio compared to consuming sweets after main meals (OR = 1.72, 95% CI:1.25–2.35), consumption of sweets every day had a higher odds ratio compared to consumption of sweets several times a week or less (OR = 2.89, 95% CI: 2.02–4.13), consumption of sweetened drinks every day had a higher odds ratio compared to consumption of sweetened drinks several times a week or less (OR = 1.73, 95% CI: 1.07–2.79), and the presence of maternal caries had a higher odds ratio compared to the absence of maternal caries (OR = 1.74, 95% CI: 1.12–2.69). The use of adult fluoridated toothpaste compared to not using adult fluoridated toothpaste (OR = 0.64, 95% CI:0.48–0.85), tooth brushing twice per day compared to not brushing twice per day (OR = 0.67, 95% CI:0.51–0.89), and supervised toothbrushing compared to not supervised toothbrushing (OR = 0.61, 95% CI: 0.41–0.93) were negatively associated with ECC.
Conclusions
ECC is highly associated with sweet consumption patterns and oral hygiene behaviours among preschoolers in Gampaha District. Therefore, interventions should focus on the oral health behaviours of preschoolers to reduce their ECC burden.
MkRP: Multiple k Registry Placement for Fast Container Deployment on Edge Computing
Authors: Song Chunggeon , Yu Heonchang , Gil Joon-Min
Published: September 2024

Edge computing reduces the response time of real-time services with handling dynamic traffics reliably. Edge servers with limited resources often utilize container technology, which provides a lightweight execution environment. When deploying containers on edge servers, a container image is required and it is predominantly downloaded from a remote registry. Therefore, these operations are heavily influenced by network overhead between the container deployment system and the remote registry. Through motivation experiments specifically designed to identify these network overheads, we demonstrate that container pooling time increases in proportion to the physical distance between two hosts and varies flexibly based on runtime conditions. In this paper, we define a system model to place multiple registries for high-speed container deployment and propose a technique for clustering edge servers and selecting leaders within each cluster based on the affinity between edge servers and network overhead. Additionally, we propose a technique for selectively deploying registries, taking into account the idle resources of each edge server. A simulation experiment is conducted to verify the performance of the proposed technique and shows that performance improvement can be achieved regardless of the number of edge servers and the k value.
Multiple Low-Dose Radiation ameliorates type-2 diabetes mellitus via gut microbiota modulation to activate TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB pathway
Authors: Qin Lijing , Liu Rongrong , Jia Zhen , Xu Weiqiang , Wang Li , Tian Hongyuan , Lian Xinru , Li Wen , Qi Yali , He Huan , Wang Zhicheng
Published: September 2024

Background Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is the fastest-growing metabolic disease in the world. The gut microbiota is linked to the T2DM. Recent studies have showed that the metabolism of gut microbiota can trigger T2DM. Low dose Radiation (LDR) has been proved to activate various protective bioeffects on diabetes. However, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Method In this study, T2DM mouse model was established using high fat diet combined with streptozocin (STZ) injection, and then exposed to multiple 75 mGy LDR every other day for one month. The changes of blood glucose levels, body weight, organ weight and damage of pancreas were measured. In addition, 16S rDNA amplicon sequencing was used to detect gut microbiota alteration. Metabolic profiling was carried out using liquid mass spectrometry system, followed by the combinative analysis of gut microbiota alteration. Furthermore, inflammatory factors and related pathways were detected. Results We found that LDR attenuate blood glucose level and weight of body, pancreas, brain, liver and testis in T2DM mice, and reduce pancreas impairment. In addition, in the gut, LDR regulated the relative abundance of bacilli, desulfobacterota, verrucomicrobiota and proteobacteria. The non-target metabolomics analysis found that LDR significantly improve the metabolic abnormalities in T2DM, which is closely related to the gut microbiota abundance. Furthermore, the inflammatory effects activated by TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB pathways in T2DM were ameliorated by LDR.Conclussion: These results suggest that LDR may exert a beneficial role in T2DM by modulating gut microbiota and metabolites, especially in TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB pathway.
Association between Neutrophil-Percentage-to-Albumin Ratio and Gallstone Incidence: Evidence from NHANES
Authors: Guo Shihan , Lu Yun
Published: September 2024

Introduction: This study aimed to explore the correlation between the Neutrophil-Percentage-to-Albumin Ratio (NPAR) and the incidence of gallstones.
Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional analysis using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) from 2017 to 2020. Multiple logistic regression and smooth curve fitting were employed to investigate the association between NPAR and gallstones. Sensitivity analyses, including stratified and interaction analyses, were performed to assess potential interactions between covariates and NPAR. Additionally, we analyzed the relationship between NPAR and other inflammatory indicators, such as the systemic immune inflammation index (SII), platelet/lymphocyte ratio (PLR), and neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (NLR), using the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve to evaluate their predictive power regarding the likelihood of gallstones.
Results: Our study recruited a total of 5,798 individuals over the age of 20, of whom 617 reported having gallstones. After adjusting for multiple covariates, the multiple logistic regression models indicated a positive linear association between NPAR and gallstone incidence. Subgroup analyses and interaction tests confirmed that the association between NPAR and gallstones persisted across different strata. Furthermore, NPAR demonstrated greater predictive value for gallstones compared to SII, PLR, and NLR.
Conclusion: The prevalence of gallstones is positively correlated with NPAR. Compared to SII, PLR, and NLR, NPAR offers enhanced predictive value for the prevalence of gallstones.
Secure and Efficient Offloading for Healthcare IoMT: Integrating Permissioned Blockchain and Deep Reinforcement Learning in MEC
Authors: H.Al-Qadasi Shatha , Deng Xiaoheng , Y.Mohammed Shoaip
Published: September 2024

The recent pandemic of COVID-19 has highlighted the critical importance of effective and secure Healthcare Internet of Medical Things (H-IoMT) technologies in preventing and controlling epidemics. Although many H-IoMT applications have been deployed, a significant number of them do not effectively tackle security and resource management concerns. This research introduces a new approach that combines permissioned blockchain with deep reinforcement learning (DRL) to improve security and resource allocation in H-IoMT systems. In order to tackle the security concern, the suggested H-IoMT system implements a permissioned blockchain approach to guarantee its security. In terms of resource allocation, we employ the mobile edge computing (MEC) approach to offload computing tasks to optimize the consumption of resources in the proposed system. The DRL approach is employed to enhance the efficiency of process offloading and processing over several edge servers, guaranteeing a high rate of transaction processing and effective utilization of resources. The simulation results demonstrate that the proposal not only enhances the total number of tasks handled but also ensures security by efficiently controlling blockchain throughput.
Income Inequality in Italian Regions: an Empirical Study on the Mitigating Role of Organisation-Based Volunteering
Authors: Maggio Umberto Di , Notarstefano Giuseppe , Terzo Giuseppe
Published: September 2024

This article examines the relationship between organisation-based volunteering and income inequality in Italian NUTS-2 regions. We propose a conceptual framework that argues how volunteering, by fostering the accumulation of human and social capital, can expand opportunities for citizens and thereby promote greater equality of opportunity, which is a foundational requirement towards more equality in income distribution. To test this framework, we conduct an empirical analysis on a panel of 21 Italian NUTS-2 regions over the period 2010–2020. The results of this analysis provide robust evidence confirming the hypothesis of the work. This emphasises the need to design regional welfare policies in which organised civil society works with public institutions and the business community to produce the goods and services that are essential to support people’s empowerment, with a view to ensuring more equitable and inclusive paths of regional development.
JEL classification: I31; O15; D64; J24; L31.
Investigating the Variational Quantum Eigensolver to solve scheduling for identical parallel machines with sequence-dependent setup-times
Authors: Schwenzow Tilmann , Wintersperger Karen , Safi Hila , von Sicard Oliver , Niedermeier Christoph , Liebrecht Christoph , Franke Joerg , Reitelshoefer Sebastian
Published: September 2024

Scheduling jobs on parallel identical machines with sequence-dependent setup times is a well-known NP-hard problem, which can be found in various industries such as the printed circuit board industry. We compare the performance of a classical exact solver and a hybrid quantum algorithm for solving this problem. As the classical exact solver, we introduce a Branch and Bound algorithm tailored to the problem. As for the quantum algorithm, we employ the Variational Quantum Eigensolver (VQE) and develop a dense encoding scheme that efficiently uses the limited number of qubits in a noise-free quantum computer simulation. For small problem instances, our results reveal that VQE shows a convergence behavior regarding the time to solution which is comparable to classical solvers. This initial approach for VQE solving the specific scheduling problem and its critical reflection lay the groundwork for identifying areas of inquiry for future research. Moreover, this work underscores the potential of quantum computing for solving complex optimization problems, which cannot be solved with classical solvers.
Deposition of phosphates in the Pabdeh Formation, Kangan anticline, southwest Iran: Implications for Rare Earth Element enrichment
Authors: Haddad Fatemeh , Yazdi Mohammad , Khoshnoodi Khalegh , Behzadi Mehrdad
Published: September 2024

The Kangan anticline in the Folded Zagros Zone contains phosphate deposits enriched in trace metals. Field observations, petrography, X-Ray Diffraction, Scanning Electron Microscopy, and whole-rock geochemistry are used to determine the petrogenesis of this phosphate deposit, evaluate the mechanisms of deposition, and assess the implications for trace metal enrichment. Phosphatic layers are grainstone–packstone with microfossils and contain green glauconite. Carbonate rocks of the Early–Middle Eocene Pabdeh Formation host the phosphate units. Glauconite, calcite, and fluorapatite are the primary minerals of the marine sedimentary phosphate deposit in the Kangan anticline. Whole-rock compositions of phosphate layers indicate negligible clastic components and show enrichment in U and HREE. Limestone and pelagic limestone units in the Pabdeh Formation do not display enrichment of these elements. Carbonate fluorapatite is the host mineral for REEs and uranium. Cation substitution into carbonate fluorapatite is considered to be the main mechanism of trace element enrichment due to positive correlations between P2O5 and trace metals; ion adsorption did not play a crucial role in the metal enrichment in these phosphates. Strong negative Ce anomalies, slight positive Eu anomalies and low ΣLREE/ΣHREE ratios of phosphate layers indicate enrichment of the HREE relative to their marine origin. The depositional environment of the phosphate units is interpreted as a basin margin carbonate ramp in the reduced and suboxic-to-anoxic zone that had low detrital input but occasionally high-energy erosional events. Ocean upwelling had an essential role in depositing the sandy glauconite-bearing phosphate layers.
Prevalence of vertebral fractures and associated factors in Thai diabetic postmenopausal women
Authors: Samakkarnthai Parinya , Sribenja Dueanchonnee , Wattanachanya Lalita , Pongchaiyakul Chatlert
Published: September 2024

Diabetic patients with vertebral fractures have a higher mortality rate than people without T2DM. However, the prevalence of vertebral fracture in the Asian diabetic population is not well established. Moreover, despite an apparent increase in fracture risk in patients with diabetes, Asian countries have provided contradictory data demonstrating that bone mineral density (BMD) varies significantly in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients. The aim of this study was to examine and compare the prevalence of vertebral fractures and osteoporosis, as well as BMD and the FRAX score, between individuals with and without T2DM. Postmenopausal Thai women attending diabetic and health check-up clinics were recruited. BMD at the lumbar spine, total hip, and femoral neck was measured via dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. A morphometric vertebral fracture (VF) was defined by a lateral thoracolumbar (T-L) X-ray radiograph. The Fracture Risk Assessment Tool (FRAX) was used to calculate the 10-year probabilities of hip and major osteoporotic fracture (MOF), which were calculated on the basis of the Thai FRAX model. A total of 435 participants were recruited, including 145 postmenopausal women with T2DM and 290 non-DM individuals. T2DM patients had a significantly greater BMI and BMD at the femoral neck and total hip, but there was no significant difference in the FRAX score, including the 10-year probability of hip fracture or MOF, either with or without BMD, between individuals with and without DM. The prevalence of osteoporosis in non-DM women was significantly greater at the femoral neck but comparable at the lumbar spine. Individuals with T2DM had a significantly higher rate of vertebral fractures, particularly those involving two or more levels, than those without T2DM. Diabetes was significantly associated with ≥ 2 VF, and the association remained unchanged after controlling for other clinical factors (adjusted OR = 3.72, 95% CI 1.70-8.15; p = 0.001). Our study demonstrated a greater prevalence of multiple (≥ two levels) VFs in women with T2DM than in nondiabetic controls.
Abstracted Gaussian Prototypes for One-Shot Concept Learning
Authors: Zou Chelsea , Kurtz Kenneth J.
Published: September 2024

We introduce a cluster-based generative image segmentation framework to encode higher-level representations of visual concepts based on one-shot learning inspired by the Omniglot Challenge. The inferred parameters of each component of a Gaussian Mixture Model (GMM) represent a distinct topological subpart of a visual concept. Sampling new data from these parameters generates augmented subparts to build a more robust prototype for each concept, i.e., the Abstracted Gaussian Prototype (AGP). This framework addresses one-shot classification tasks using a cognitively-inspired similarity metric and addresses one-shot generative tasks through a novel AGP-VAE pipeline employing variational autoencoders (VAEs) to generate new class variants. Results from human judges reveal that the generative pipeline produces novel examples and classes of visual concepts that are broadly indistinguishable from those made by humans. The proposed framework leads to impressive but not state-of-the-art classification accuracy; thus, the contribution is two-fold: 1) the system is uniquely low in theoretical and computational complexity and operates in a completely standalone manner compared while existing approaches draw heavily on pre-training or knowledge engineering; and 2) in contrast with competing neural network models, the AGP approach addresses the importance of breadth of task capability emphasized in the Omniglot challenge (i.e., successful performance on generative tasks). These two points are critical as we advance toward an understanding of how learning/reasoning systems can produce viable, robust, and flexible concepts based on literally nothing more than a single example.
Methylated Tirilazad (PTP-102) May Mitigate Oligofructose-Induced Laminitis in Horses
Authors: Tuniyazi Maimaiti , Zhang Naisheng , Shen Peng
Published: September 2024

Laminitis is a serious health condition that causes severe pain and lameness in horses. Owing to our lack of understanding of laminitis, treatments often fail to achieve desired results. In recent years, we have recognized that laminitis may involve a complex interaction between local and systemic inflammation. Dysbiosis of the gut microbiota has been linked to the development of systemic inflammation, and our previous findings suggested that the development of laminitis is closely linked to the production of harmful metabolites in the gut microbiota. In addition, localized lesions in the hoof, especially lamellar injuries, are the most direct cause of laminitis. Metalloproteinases have been found to be strongly associated with the development of laminitis. A recent discovery found that Methylated Tirilazad (PTP-102) plays a role in repairing laminar tissues in vitro. However, its efficacy in horses has not been studied. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the efficacy of PTP-102 in the prevention and treatment of oligofructose-induced laminitis in horses. Twenty horses were randomly assigned to four groups: Control, Laminitis, Prophylactic (PTP-102 administered before laminitis induction), and Treatment (PTP-102 administered after laminitis induction). Samples were collected at the end of the study, 72 h after oligofructose administration. The results showed that oligofructose successfully induced laminitis in horses, resulting in detreated clinical signs. Blood serum indices (including inflammation-related and other related indices) were significantly increased. Dissection and staining showed significant bleeding, swelling, and damage to the hoof tissue. Analysis of the gut microbiota revealed a significant decrease in abundance and diversity and a significant increase in the relative abundance of specific bacteria. Following PTP-102 intervention, clinical signs, blood markers, and lamellar tissue damage improved significantly. PTP-102 also had an effect on the gut microbiota, especially those closely related to the development of laminitis. This may indicate that its therapeutic mechanism may be related to improvement of the gut microbiota in addition to direct anti-inflammatory activity. Notably, PTP-102 was more effective in the Treatment group than in the Prophylactic group, indicating that timing may be an important factor for laminitis management. These findings emphasize the therapeutic potential of PTP-102. Further studies are necessary to investigate the long-term effects of PTP-102.
Lifestyle Risk Factors and 10-Year Cardiovascular Diseases Risk Estimation Among Adults Aged 40 and Above with HIV in Eastern Uganda
Authors: Kanyike Andrew Marvin , Nakawuki Ashely Winfred , Kihumuro Raymond Bernard , Kintu Timothy , Katuramu Richard
Published: September 2024

Background: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk is higher among people living with HIV (PLHIV), especially aging patients. With the aging population of PLHIV, evaluating their CVD risk prediction is important but underexplored in Uganda.
Objective: We determined lifestyle risk factors and estimated the 10-year risk of developing CVD among PLHIV aged 40 and older in Eastern Uganda.
Methods: A quantitative cross-sectional study was conducted at Mbale Regional Referral Hospital and Bugobero Health Center IV HIV clinics in Eastern Uganda in May and July 2023. We included 297 PLHIV aged ≥ 40 years on ART for ≥ 6 months. Data were collected on sociodemographics, clinical parameters, lifestyle risk factors, weight, height, fasting blood glucose, and blood pressure. The 10-year CVD risk was determined using the World Health Organization’s CVD risk non-laboratory-based charts. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression models examined factors associated with high CVD risk. A P value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.
Results: Participants had a mean age of 51.8 (SD: 7.9). Only 13.5% were smokers, 58.6% consumed alcohol, and 4.1% were physically inactivity. Obesity was observed in 10.1%, 45.1% were hypertensive, and 14.1% diabetic. Most participants (61.3%, 95% CI: 55.5–66.9%) had a <5% 10-year CVD risk. Living with HIV for ≥10 years was associated with high CVD risk (≥10%) (aOR: 3.83, 95% CI: 1.25-6.69, p=0.018).
Conclusion: There was a low predicted CVD risk among most PLHIV. However, the high prevalence of hypertension, if not addressed, could increase the future risk of CVD among aging PLHIV in Uganda.
Retrofitting seismically designed exterior beam-column joints under lateral monotonic loading: A numerical analysis based on experimental testing
Authors: Owaid Ali Mohammed , Akhaveissy Amir Houshang , Al-Abbas Bahaa Hussain
Published: September 2024

This research paper presents an experimental and numerical study on the behavior of reinforced concrete (RC) in exterior beam-column joints designed for seismic conditions. Three laboratory specimens were prepared and tested to evaluate their load-bearing capacity and study the joint behavior under a constant axial load and a gradually increasing peak monotonic load until failure. The experimental results demonstrated convergence among the specimens in terms of the load-displacement curve, displacement ductility, and energy dissipation. This was further confirmed through the use of a Finite Element (FE) analysis model. The numerical analysis exhibited significant convergence between experimental and numerical results. Additionally, the numerical model was retrofitted using Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer (CFRP) in two methods: model 1 (CFRP sheets only) and model 2 (CFRP sheets with strips). The retrofitting with CFRP proved suitable for enhancing structure performance, showing an improvement in failure mode and a significant increase in peak monotonic load and energy dissipation by (31 and 26) % for model 1, and by (47 and 36) % for model 2. This provides valuable insights into the behavior of RC exterior beam-column joints, highlighting the importance of retrofitting with CFRP composites.
Financing Healthcare Services: A Qualitative Assessment of Private Health Insurance Schemes in Ghana
Authors: Asante Angela , Bonney Richard A. , Twum Peter
Published: September 2024

Background: Health financing in Ghana aims for universal access to healthcare, with both public and private insurance schemes playing vital roles. The National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) addresses out-of-pocket expenses but faces enrollment and trust issues. However, 12 licensed Private Health Insurance Schemes (PHISs) offer complementary services, enhancing healthcare access and quality through additional coverage and service delivery. This study aimed to assess the operations and performance of PHIS in Ghana.
Methods: The research utilized a qualitative descriptive design, focusing on registered PHIS providing services to Ghanaians. A convenient sampling technique was employed for data collection. Data was gathered through face-to-face interviews with participants until saturation was achieved. The data was thematically analyzed.
Results: The study highlights the intricate regulatory framework governing PHISs in Ghana, emphasizing licensing and accreditation requirements. It revealed diverse operational strategies, including nationwide coverage and tailored policies for different clientele. Benefit packages varied, with distinct plans like the “X-scan plan” for medical imaging. Payment structures ranged from upfront payments to flexible options. PHIS’s growth was driven by health concerns during the COVID-19 pandemic, strategic investments, and partnerships. Clientele for PHIS primarily resides in urban areas, focusing on sectors like education.
Conclusion: The study assesses Ghana’s PHI sector, highlighting its critical role in financing healthcare in Ghana. Findings reveal PHIS’s diverse packages and flexible payments boost healthcare access and quality. We, therefore, recommend PHIS foster partnerships with National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) accredited facilities, reduce non-payment risks, and ensure transparency to foster trust and accurate risk assessment, promoting sustainable growth and reliability in Ghana’s Private Health Insurance (PHI) industry.