bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Developing an Ontology for Public Policy Problems in Ethiopia: A Comprehensive Review, Evaluation, And Future Directions
Authors: Kero Admas , Demissie Dawit , Tune Kula
Published: September 2023

This literature review focuses on the development of an ontology for public policy problems in Ethiopia. The study aims to provide a structured representation of concepts, relationships, and knowledge specific to the Ethiopian policy context. The research follows a systematic ontology development process that incorporates domain-specific knowledge and stakeholder involvement.The review begins by describing the steps involved in the ontology development process, including problem identification and scoping, requirement analysis, ontology modeling, and stakeholder involvement. It emphasizes the importance of engaging policymakers, subject matter experts, and researchers throughout the process to validate the ontology and ensure its relevance and effectiveness in addressing Ethiopian policy problems.The application of the developed ontology to specific policy problems is then discussed. Examples include agricultural policy analysis, healthcare policy evaluation, and education policy planning. The review highlights how the ontology can support policy analysis, decision-making, and evaluation by capturing relevant concepts, simulating policy scenarios, and assessing policy impacts.Furthermore, the review identifies potential challenges and limitations in the ontology development process, such as data availability, expert knowledge engagement, and the evolving policy landscape. These challenges need to be addressed to ensure the ontology's accuracy and usability in addressing Ethiopian policy problems.Finally, the review provides suggestions for further research and improvement, such as integrating the ontology with data sources, fostering collaborative ontology development, exploring semantic reasoning and inferencing techniques, and promoting interoperability and standardization. These suggestions aim to enhance the ontology's capabilities and its contribution to the field of ontology development for public policy problems.In conclusion, the development of an ontology for public policy problems in Ethiopia offers a valuable tool for policymakers, researchers, and stakeholders to understand, analyze, and address complex policy challenges. The ontology's relevance and applicability to the Ethiopian context, stakeholder involvement, and support for policy analysis make it a significant contribution to the field of ontology development for public policy.
The THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE MERDEKA BELAJAR KAMPUS MERDEKA (MBKM) INTERNSHIP PROGRAM IN SOCIOLOGY STUDY PROGRAM, FACULTY OF SOCIAL SCIENCES, STATE UNIVERSITY OF JAKARTA
Authors: Kurniawati Atik , Fitri Meila Riskia , S. K Marista Christina , Saputra Dicky , Firdaus Revania
Published: September 2023

This study aims to evaluate the implementation of the independent internship program organized by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research and Technology within the Sociology Study Program, Faculty of Social Sciences, State University of Jakarta using the CIPP evaluation model. The CIPP evaluation model focuses on 4 aspects, namely Context, Input, Process, Product. The type of approach used is a descriptive qualitative approach with data collection techniques through observation, interviews, and literature studies. The results of this study show that based on: (1) Context evaluation is still not optimal, because the involvement of Sociology students only ranges from 15% of batches 1-4 and in batch 4, especially the class of 2020, there are only 4 students who pass the Independent Internship program. Then the vision, mission, and objectives of the Sociology study program are considered to be in accordance with the objectives of the implementation of the Independent Internship program. (2) Input evaluation has been going well, due to the availability of human resources, facilities, and budget funds that are well met. Preparation for the implementation of the Independent Internship has also been well prepared by the Sociology study program and the company, and has had good quality human resources and are competent in their fields. (3) The evaluation process has run well, because it is supported by the study program and participants also have a high level of satisfaction with the Independent Internship program, both from experience, mentors,  nor work. Then the effectiveness of excellent mentor assistance makes participants have no significant obstacles in the registration process until the internship program ends. (4) Product evaluation has also been carried out well, because this Independent Internship program can significantly improve the abilities and skills of participants. In addition, participants gain direct work experience and are actively involved in the company, so that participants get professional relationships and clear career paths.
Student E-learning Satisfaction Madrasah in the Digitalization of Education in the Era of Independent Learning in Demak, Central Java
Authors: Merrydian Siska , Safitri Alsavira , Ndoluanak Yofran Hengki , Tjalla Awaluddin , Wahyuni Lussy Dwi Utami
Published: September 2023

This research aims to determine satisfaction and the implications for the desire to continue using e-learning among madrasah students in the digitalization of education in the era of independent learning. The population of this study was students at MTsS Bahrul General in Demak who used madrasah e-learning. Sampling was carried out by simple random sampling and obtained a sample of 117 students. The data collection method used was using a questionnaire. The data analysis method uses SEM-PLS. The research results show that student attitudes, e-learning quality, and e-learning flexibility have a positive and significant effect on e-learning satisfaction. E-learning satisfaction has a positive and significant effect on the desire to continue using e-learning.
Conceptual Analysis of Self-reliance in Older Adults in South Korea
Authors: Jang Taejeong , Seo Kawoun , Yeom Eun-Yi
Published: September 2023

Background: With population aging becoming a global phenomenon, the burden of supporting older adults is increasing. We aimed to present the dimensions and attributes related to the independence of older adults in Korea, in order to aid with development of measurement tools and future interventional programs.
Methods: Ten adults who were aged ≥65 years, lived in D city, and could move and communicate independently, were enrolled in this study. The three-stage hybrid model proposed by Schwartz-Barcott and Kim was used for our analysis. The independence levels of older adults, derived from the theoretical stage, were assessed in terms of physical, mental, and environmental dimensions.
Results: The independence levels of the participants correlated with tendencies to perform daily life-independent physical activities and self-care, control their lives based on freedom, and actively maintain self-identity. Smoothly interacting with family, neighbors, and support resources while maintaining economic stability and spatial separation represented another critical aspect.
Conclusion: The results of this study suggest the need for an interventional approach for older adults at home to establish self-reliance and improve their quality of life in their environments. Moreover, further research is needed to develop a tool to measure the independence of older adults at home, in addition to the development of nursing intervention strategies for successful aging.
Research on the Time-Varying Mesh Stiffness and Dynamic Characteristics of Steel-POM Gear Pair with Off-Line Meshing
Authors: Xiong Yangshou , Yu Dongyang , Huang Kang , Zhang Jun , Zhang Haibin
Published: September 2023

Plastic gears have been widely used in fields such as instruments, meters, and automotive electronics In particular, metal-plastic gear pairs are commonly used in the low-speed stages of multi-stage gear transmissions to enhance load capacity and achieve lightweight design. However, due to the small elastic modulus and significant temperature sensitivity of plastic gears, off-line meshing phenomenon occurs in metal-plastic gear pairs during operation, which affects the overall system stiffness and dynamic behavior. Therefore, this study focuses on 45# steel-POM gear pair and considers the influence of temperature on the elastic modulus of gears, as well as the impact of off-line meshing on the time-varying stiffness of the gear pair. A lumped parameter method is used to establish a single-degree-of-freedom model of the gear transmission system, and the effect of load on the system's dynamic behavior is investigated. Experimental validation shows that the stiffness varies linearly with the load, and the dynamic performance of the system deteriorates with increasing load. Under the same load, the system with consideration of off-line meshing exhibits better transmission accuracy compared to the one without consideration. This study provides a theoretical basis for the design and transmission of plastic gears in the future.
NLRP3 inhibition attenuates the allergic rhinitis symptoms in an mice model
Authors: Lee Minhyung , Ko Young-Kyung , Gil Chan Hee , Eun Kyoung Mi , Zhang Yu-Lian , Cho Sung-Woo , Kim Dae Woo , Kim Hyun Jik , Rhee Chae-Seo
Published: September 2023

This study aimed to identify the mechanism underlying the activation of Nod-like receptor family, pyrin domain‐containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome signaling pathway in an ovalbumin (OVA)-induced allergic rhinitis (AR) mice model and to validate the effect of a specific inhibitor of the NLRP3, MCC950. Mice were divided into three groups and each group consisted of ten mice (saline group, the negative control group; OVA group, the OVA-induced AR model group; and OVA + MCC group, treated with 10 mg/kg MCC950). MCC950 was administered intraperitoneally every second day. Multiple parameters of AR, including NLRP3, caspase-1, interleukin (IL)-1β, and IL-18 were evaluated by using ELISA, RT-qPCR, histopathology, and immunohistochemistry. The mRNA and protein levels of NLRP3, caspase-1, IL-1β and IL-18 were upregulated in the OVA group compared with those of the saline group. MCC950 significantly inhibited the mRNA and protein levels of NLRP3, caspase-1, IL-1β and IL-18 in nasal tissue. Further, AR symptoms and eosinophil count were normalized after MCC950 treatment. However, OVA-specific IgE was not restored in the OVA + MCC group. In conclusion, NLRP3 inflammasome signaling pathway may be an alternative pathway to induce AR symptoms in OVA-induced AR model. MCC950 is a specific inhibitor of NLRP3 cascade, which attenuates AR symptoms regardless of IgE.
Mechanisms of reversal of temozolomide resistance in glioblastoma through downregulation of BCL3 by the Tumor Electric Field Therapy
Authors: Jia Mu-yuan , Liu Yu-yang , Li Ze , Luo Cheng-Ke , Xu Sheng-chao , Gong Huan-Huan , Wu Jianhui , Zhou Dan , Chen Di-kang , WU An-Hua , Liu Zhi-Xiong , Cheng Wen , Wu Hao , Hu Wen-Tao , Chen Jun-Yi , Lan Jin-Xin , Liu Hong-Yu , Sun Dan-Yang , Chen Ling , Liu Jia-Lin
Published: September 2023

To explore the mechanisms behind tumor electric field treatment (TEFT) in reversing temozolomide (TMZ) resistance in glioblastoma (GBM). Transcriptome data of TMZ- resistant GBM cells treated with TEFT were obtained using a novel electric field cell culture device (CL-301A). Key biological processes and genes were identified through differential gene analysis and enrichment analysis. The association between key genes and patient prognosis was examined using a GBM open-source database. The results were validated in two GBM-resistant cell lines(U251R,T98GR)and primary cell lines (GPDC1,GPDC8). The results suggest that TEFT increased the sensitivity of U251R and T98GR to TMZ. Bioinformatics analysis showed the importance of the extracellular matrix structure and identified BCL3 as a key gene. Survival analysis indicated that GBM patients with high BCL3 expression had a poor prognosis. BCL3 was upregulated in U251R and T98GR, increased resistance to TMZ, while BCL3 knockdown resulted in increased sensitivity to TMZ. Western blot assays showed that downregulation of BCL3 decreased AKT phosphorylation and correlated with reduced resistance to TMZ. It was finally concluded that TEFT reversed the drug resistance of GBM to TMZ by reducing AKT phosphorylation and BCL3 expression, enhancing the proapoptotic effect of TMZ on GBM cells. Keywords: tumor electric field therapy; BCL3; drug resistance; glioblastoma; temozolomide.
Role of lung ornithine aminotransferase in Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis: regulation of mitochondrial ROS generation and TGF-β1 activity
Authors: Park Sung Woo , Lee Jong-Uk , Kisung Song , Hong Jisu , Shin Hyesun , Park Eunji , Baek Junyeong , Park Shinhee , Baek Ae Rin , Lee Junehyuk , Jang An-Soo , Kim Do Jin , Chin Su Sie , Jeong Sung Hwan
Published: September 2023

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) exhibits aberrant lung remodeling that is characterized by excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins. In a previous study, we found that levels of ornithine aminotransferase (OAT), a principal enzyme of the proline metabolic pathway, were elevated in the lungs of patients with IPF. However, the precise role played by OAT in IPF pathogenesis is not yet clear. The mechanism by which OAT affected fibrogenesis was assessedin vitrousing lung fibroblasts overexpressing and knockdown of OAT. The therapeutic effects of OAT inhibition were assessed in the lungs of mice treated with bleomycin. OAT expression was increased in fibrotic areas, principally interstitial fibroblasts, of the IPF lung. OAT levels in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid of IPF patients were inversely correlated with lung function. The survival rate was significantly lower in the group with an OAT level > 75.659 ng/mL than in the group with an OAT level ≤ 75.659 ng/mL (HR, 29.53;p = 0.0008). OAT overexpression and knockdown respectively increased and decreased ECM component production by lung fibroblasts. OAT knockdown also inhibited transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF)-β1 activity and TGF-β1 pathway signaling. OAT overexpression increased the generation of mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS) by activating proline dehydrogenase. The OAT inhibitor L-canaline significantly attenuated bleomycin-induced lung injury and fibrosis. In conclusion, Increased OAT levels in the lung in IPF contributes to fibrotic progression via excessive mitochondrial ROS production that upregulates TGF-β1 signaling. OAT may be a useful therapeutic target in patients with fibrotic lung disease including IPF.
Ginkgo biloba repair spinal cord ischemia reperfusion injury in rats by regulating Ferroptosis signaling pathway
Authors: Zhang Fengyi , Zhang Ding , Guan Xiaoqing , Zong Yuan , Wang Hang , Guo Li , Shen Zhubing , Yin Fei
Published: September 2023

Ferroptosis is a hot topic in recent years. As a new type of cell death, its main signs are iron overload and lipid peroxidation.Spinal cord ischemia reperfusion injury (SCIRI) is often accompanied by reactive oxygen-induced oxidative stress, and the spinal cord is rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids, so it is very easy to undergo lipid peroxidation under the attack of oxygen free radicals after ischemia reperfusion injury, and eventually lead to degeneration and necrosis of nerve cells.Therefore, inhibition of reactive oxygen species accumulation is essential to reduce nerve cell death after SCIRI.Our previous studies have shown that Ginkgo biloba (GB) can remove oxygen free radicals produced during ischemia reperfusion in the spinal cord of rats, but the specific mechanism of action is unclear.In this study, we first obtained the genes of the SCIRI group and model group through bioinformatics analysis, and then intersects the genes related to ferroptosis to verify the most specific genes.After subsequent experiments, we found that Ginkgo biloba extract (GBE) can significantly increase glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4),solute carrier family7 member11 (SLC7A11) and augmenter of liver regeneration (ALR), decrease the expression of 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal (4-HNE) and transferrin receptor 1 (TfR1), alleviating nerve injury after SCIRI in rats.
Removal of Cadmium from Aqueous Solution by Magnetic Biochar: Adsorption Characteristics and Mechanism
Authors: Li Zhiwen , Niu Ruiyan , Yu Jiaheng , Yu Liyun , Cao Di
Published: September 2023

Experiments were conducted to investigate the potential for the efficient resource utilization of waste cow manure and corn straw in an agricultural ecosystem. In this study, magnetic biochar of cow manure and straw was synthesized by co-precipitation method, and cadmium was removed by adsorption in aqueous solution. Several physicochemical characterization techniques were applied, including scanning electron microscopy, Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET), Zeta potential analysis, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The effects of pH value, magnetic biochar content, kinetics and isotherm on the adsorption of cadmium were investigated. The physicochemical characterizations revealed that the physical and chemical properties of the magnetic biochar were substantially changed compared to the unmodified biochar. The results showed that the surface of biochar became rough, the number of oxygen-containing functional groups increased, and the specific surface area increased. The results of adsorption experiments show that the adsorption capacity is affected by pH, magnetic biochar addition, cadmium concentration and adsorption time. The adsorption kinetics and isothermal adsorption experiments showed that the Cd adsorption processes of the cow manure and corn straw magnetic biochars were consistent with the Freundlich model and quasi-second-order kinetic model. The results of this study also showed that Cd adsorption effect of cow manure magnetic biochar was found to be more effective than that of corn straw magnetic biochar. In conclusion, the magnetic biochar of cow dung is an effective adsorbent for the absorption of cadmium in wastewater.
Endovascular Treatment of Intracranial Blood Blister-like Aneurysms with the Willis Covered Stent: A Single-center Experience and Review of the Literature
Authors: Jin Yazhou , Guo Xinbin , Chen Zhen , Guan Sheng
Published: September 2023

Background and purpose
To evaluate the safety, feasibility, and effectiveness of the Willis covered stent (WCS) in treating blood blister-like aneurysms (BBAs) and compare it with other stents in the literature.
Materials and methods
Twenty-one consecutive patients with BBAs treated with the WCS were identified between July 2017 and July 2020. The demographic, clinical, angiographic data and procedural-related complications were collected from the medical records and the operative reports. We comprehensively reviewed the related literature by searching the PubMed, Ovid MEDLINE, and Ovid EMBASE databases.
Results
The present study included six men and fifteen women, with a mean age of 51.6 years (range 31–70 years). The immediate postoperative angiography demonstrated that the complete occlusion rate was 100%, with no endoleaks. Ophthalmic artery (OA) occlusion occurred in five patients (23.8%). One patient developed delayed stent thrombosis on the third postoperative day. The mean follow-up time was 8.1 months (range 3–21 months). All twenty-one BBAs were occluded entirely, and the patency of the parent arteries was preserved. No aneurysm rupture or recurrence was found, and no retreatment was needed. Two patients developed mild to moderate asymptomatic in-stent stenosis. Twenty patients had an mRS score of zero, and one had an mRS score of one. The final analysis included 138 patients from nine articles plus our cohort. The estimated rate of immediate complete occlusion was 94% (95% confidence interval, 0.30–1.57).
Conclusions
Our series and the systematic review indicate that treating BBAs with WCSs was relatively safe and efficacious.
Glucose tolerance test with a single abnormal value as a predictor of type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Lee Seon Ui , Hong Subeen , Choi Sae Kyung , Kim Su Mi , Shin Jae Eun , Kil Ki Cheol , Kim Yeon Hee , Wie Jeong Ha , Jo Yun Sung , Ko Hyun Sun
Published: September 2023

Background:
Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is defined as two or more abnormal values in the 100 g oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) using a two-step approach. Although pregnancy outcomes in GDM are well established, those with a single abnormal value (SAV) in the 100 g OGTT remain controversial. This study investigated the association between a SAV in 100 g OGTT and abnormal pregnancy outcomes, including the development of future type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), within 5 years after delivery.
Methods:
We conducted a cross-sectional analysis of seven university hospitals between 2009 and 2020. For the diagnosis of GDM, we used a two-step approach based on the Carpenter-Coustan criteria. First, we divided the dataset into three subgroups (normoglycemic control group, SAV group, and GDM group) and compared pregnancy outcomes. After dividing the dataset into postpartum T2DM and control groups, the risk factors were evaluated using multivariate logistic regression analysis to generate odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI). Based on this, a risk-scoring model was developed, and its performance was evaluated using the receiver operating characteristic curve.
Results:
Of the 9,353 females, 342 (3.66%) were included in the single abnormal OGTT group, and 418 (4.47%) were included in the GDM group. Compared to the normoglycemic group, the SAV and GDM groups showed significantly older age, higher body mass index (BMI), higher rates of diabetes mellitus (DM) family history and neonatal hypoglycemia in the offspring, and a significantly higher rate of maternal T2DM within 5 years after delivery. In multivariate analysis, the significant risk factors for postpartum T2DM were SAV, GDM, nulliparity, BMI before pregnancy, chronic hypertension, polycystic ovarian syndrome, hyperlipidemia, and DM family history. A scoring model developed using the significant risk factors for future T2DM achieved an AUC of 0.74.
Conclusions:
We demonstrated that SAV could affect adverse pregnancy outcomes and is a significant risk factor for postpartum T2DM. We developed a scoring system using the risk factors for postpartum T2DM.
Non-CO2 emissions reductions implied by IPCC estimates of the Remaining Carbon Budget
Authors: Rogelj Joeri , Lamboll Robin
Published: September 2023

Estimates of the remaining carbon budget (RCB) for limiting warming to 1.5°C and well-below 2°C include assumptions about how much warming can be expected from non-CO2 emissions. Here, we uncover the non-CO2 assumptions that underlie the RCB estimates by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. We show how pursuing inadequate CH4 emission reductions causes Paris-compatible RCBs to be exhausted today, effectively putting achievement of the Paris Agreement out of reach.
Ocular parameters associated with visual performance of enhanced monofocal intraocular lens
Authors: Kim Da Ran , Yoon Young Chae , Whang Woong-Joo , Hwang Ho Sik , Na Kyung-Sun
Published: September 2023

Background
An enhanced monofocal intraocular lenses (IOLs) (Tecnis Eyhance ICB00 and Tecnis Eyhance Toric DIU) has been developed to enhance intermediate vision while avoiding the disadvantages of multifocal IOLs. Although many studies have demonstrated the improvement of intermediate visual acuity with enhanced monofocal IOLs, it is not known specifically for which patients these IOLs should be recommended or avoided. In this study, we aim to find out which ocular parameters affect vision performance and photic phenomenon of ICB00 or DIU at different distances.
Methods
Patients who underwent cataract surgery with ICB00 or DIU, performed by a single surgeon, were included. Before surgery, the patients' age, gender, axial length, anterior chamber depth, spherical aberration Z (4,0), vertical coma, horizontal coma, angle kappa (κ), angle alpha (α), and other ocular parameters were investigated. One month after surgery, uncorrected near visual acuity (UNVA at 40 cm), uncorrected intermediate visual acuity (UIVA at 66 cm), uncorrected distance logMAR visual acuity (UDVA), IOL decentration, and quality of vision (QoV) questionnaires were conducted.
Results
A total of 43 patients (58 eyes) were included. The results of the univariate linear regression analyses showed a negative correlation between spherical aberration and logMAR UNVA and UIVA (p = 0.003, β=-0.51 and p = 0.018, β=-0.23, respectively) and a positive correlation between angle α and logMAR UIVA (p = 0.036, β = 0.19). Deeper anterior chamber depth (ACD) was associated with poorer total QoV (p = 0.018, β = 14.43), particularly in glare, halo, blur, and fluctuation perception. A higher degree of IOL decentration tended to decrease UNVA and UIVA (Pearson correlation coefficient, r = 0.336 and r = 0.221, respectively); however, no significant effect was observed on UDVA (Pearson correlation coefficient, r = 0.042).
Conclusions
In enhanced monofocal IOLs, a higher level of spherical aberration is associated with better performance in UNVA and UIVA, whereas a larger angle α has a negative impact. A deeper ACD negatively affects the QoV.
The effects of weather conditions on economic growth: Evidence from global subnational economic output and income
Authors: Tol Richard , Dong Jinchi , Wang Jinnan
Published: September 2023

The effects of weather on economic growth continue to be debated. Previous studies focused on economic output, but income better reflects living standards; income and output are the same at the national level, but differ at a finer spatial scale. This study assembles a unique database comprising global subnational GDP and GDI per capita data from over 1600 regions across more than 180 countries and analyzes the effects of weather conditions on economic growth. The results reveal the following: 1) There is a significant negative effect of annual mean temperature on GDI per capita growth, while weather conditions do not significantly affect GDP per capita growth. 2) We find significant interaction effects between weather and weather variability, as well as different adaptations between rich and poor regions. 3) The omission of data from a large number of poor and hot countries in previous subnational research leads to an underestimation of the economic impact of weather shocks. Focusing on output rather than income and omitting data, previous studies appear to have underestimated the impact of climate change.
Pattern of Admissions and Needs Assessment for Palliative Care Services Among in-patients in a Tertiary Health Facility in South-Western Nigeria
Authors: Akodu Babatunde , Olokodana-Adesalu Olufunmilayo , Ojikutu Moninuola , Ogbenna Ann , Agunbiade Taiwo , Nwosa Nwando , Doobay-Persaud Ashti , Caputo Matthew , Drane Denise , Evans Charlesnika , Ogunseitan Adeboye , Hauser Joshua
Published: September 2023

BACKGROUND
Palliative care development emphasizes educationand medication availability. Only 12% of needs for palliative care are met. Palliative care domains and experience of patientsand their families are vital in life-limiting conditions. The Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), possess the National Cancer Centre but currently has no palliative care unit.
AIM
The aim was to examine pattern of admissions and needs assessment for palliative services among patients admitted into LUTH wards.
METHOD
The survey was conducted using a cross-sectional design to recruit 129 consecutive respondents. Together for Short Lives (TfSL) tool was used to categorize respondents’ conditions into Palliative and Non-palliative conditions. Information on diagnosis, stage of disease, domains of palliative care, advance care plan, preparation for home care, death and education about the illness was retrieved. Descriptive characteristics of the participants were presented as frequencies and percentages and Chi-squared test was used to determine association between the variables. Data analysis was done using Epi info version 7.2.
RESULTS
80.6% of the respondents had palliative care conditions, 83.7% had family members as their caregiverwhile 13.2% of the participants had no care-giver and 65.9% had no advance care plan. There was no preparation for home care or death in 72.1% while 70.5% had education about their illnessand 68.2% were in the advanced stage of their disease. Participants attending the surgery non-trauma unit(51.6%) were more likely to have advance plans. Adults were more likely to have palliative care conditions (79.8%) compared to children (20.2%), and was statistically significant.
CONCLUSION
Majority of the participants need palliative care services but are unmet and the most predominant condition was cancer. Majority had no advance plan or preparation for home careor death despite having advanced stages of disease.This survey emphasizes the need for symptom management, communication and provision of support.
Exploring the impact of a Frailty Prevention Care Management Program on frailty and health function in community older adults: A quasi-experimental trial protocol
Authors: LIN Chia-Hui , Liu Ming-Yi , Chen Nan-Fu
Published: September 2023

BackgroundFrailty often results from deteriorating muscle strength and decreased physical function in older adults due to physical inactivity, chronic nutritional deficiency, depression, or inadequate support systems. Frailty is a comprehensive, multi-dimensional perspective (includes physical, psychological, and social fragility). Previous research has shown that exercise programs, especially resistance exercises combined with nutritional care, can reduce frailty symptoms. This study describes a quasi-experimental trial to develop a frailty prevention care management program, that prevents frailty and improves frailty, physical activity, and nutrition compared to usual care for community-dwelling older adults.MethodsThis study employed a quasi-experimental design using convenience sampling with experimental and control groups. A total of 70 community-dwelling older adults were recruited for experimental and control groups. Moreover, participants in the experimental group will receive a 24-week Frailty Prevention Care Management Program of 100 min per session, two sessions per week. In contrast, those in the usual physical activity control group must maintain their original physical activity. Primary and secondary outcomes will be measured at baseline, immediately after the intervention, and 3-month post-intervention. The primary outcome measure was the degree of frailty measured using the Taiwanese version of the Tilburg frailty indicator. Secondary outcomes will include measures of physical activity using the Senior Fitness Test and nutrition measures using the Mini Nutritional Assessment Short Form. A generalised estimating equation was constructed to analyse the effects of the intervention.ResultsThis protocol presents a quasi-experimental design for a convenience sampling trial to evaluate the effectiveness, prevention of frailty, improves of physical activity, and nutrition of the Frailty Prevention Care Management Program.ConclusionIf the results are as expected, this trial will provide evidence for the effect of the frailty prevention program on elderly community-based populations.Trial registration:Clinical Trials Register: NCT05883423 (Date of registration:
“Current”, “heated rods” & “hot vapour”: Why patients refuse radiotherapy as a treatment modality for cancer in Northern Sri Lanka
Authors: Mahadevan Jeyasuthan , Appudurai Ramalingam , Sothipragasam Shobikgha , Kumar Ramya , Rajasooriyar Chrishanthi
Published: September 2023

Purpose: Significant proportions of patients either refuse or discontinue radiotherapy, even in the curative setting, leading to poor clinical outcomes. This study explores patient perceptions that underlie decisions to refuse/discontinue radiotherapy at a cancer care facility in northern Sri Lanka.
Methods: An exploratory descriptive qualitative study was carried out among 14 purposively-selected patients with cancer who refused/discontinued radiotherapy. In-depth semi-structured interviews were transcribed in Tamil, translated into English, coded, and thematically analyzed.
Results: All participants referred to radiotherapy as “current” with several understanding the procedure to involve electricity, heat, or hot vapour. Many pointed to gaps in information provided by healthcare providers, who were perceived to focus on side effects without explaining the procedure. In the absence of these crucial details, patients relied on family members and acquaintances to fill these information gaps, often based on second- or third-hand accounts of experiences with radiotherapy. Many felt pressured by family to refuse radiation, feared radiation, or felt ashamed to ask questions, while for others COVID-19 was an impediment. All but three participants regretted their decision, claiming they would recommend radiation to patients with cancer, especially when it is offered with curative intent.
Conclusion: Patients with cancer who refused/discontinued radiation therapy have significant information needs. While human resource deficits need to be addressed in low-resource settings like northern Sri Lanka, providing better supportive cancer care could improve clinical outcomes and save resources that would otherwise be wasted on patient preparation for radiotherapy.
The Ability of Plants Leaves Tissue to Change Polarization State of Polarized Laser Radiation
Authors: Kulchin Yuriy N. , Kozhanov Sergey O. , Kholin Alexander S. , Demidchik Vadim V. , Subbotin Evgeny P. , Trofimov Yuriy V. , Kovalevsky Kirill V. , Subbotina Natalia I. , Gomolsky Andrey S.
Published: September 2023

The main purpose of this work was to confirm the previously proposed model of the laser radiation interaction with the epidermal layer of monocotyledons cells. The other purpose was to show that plant age affects polarization parameters and polarization direction affects plant development. The methods used in this work include the development of LED light sources, the polarization parameters assessment (polarization index) and statistical analysis. The maize plants (Zea mays L.), variety “Early gourmet 121”, optical setup and software TXP Series Instrumentation were used in the work. Plants were grown under white light (WW) at an intensity of 200 µmol m− 2 s− 1. The study established that the harmonic ellipticity polarization change by ± 12.0° occurs when the linearly polarized light passed through the maize leaves depending on the axis rotation angle of the epidermal cells. In addition, it was shown that the maize leaves of different ages could have different values of the refractive index anisotropy, and, consequently, different polarization ellipticity index. It has been established that the maize leaves with ordered structure of epidermal cells are able to change the polarized radiation ellipticity. That confirms the previously proposed model of the polarized light interaction with plant leaves. We established that linearly polarized light passing through the leaves of maize plants turns into elliptically polarized light, which is able to interact more effectively with the photosensitive protein structures of the leaf inner cells.
Estimating Methane Emission Rate from an Oxidation Lagoon Using Low-Cost Sensor
Authors: Heyer-Rodriguez Lorenzo , Guevara-Garcia Nestor , Ventura-Holule Rene
Published: September 2023

In Mexico, the second source of methane emissions is anaerobic digestion of waste, then is necessary the development of methane emission measurement methodologies to evaluate the mitigation measures adopted. This work describes a methodology for the estimation of methane emission rate from an oxidation lagoon using the static flow chamber technique and a low-cost methane sensor MQ-4. The study area was the oxidation lagoon “Bordo Los Puerquitos”, which receive wastewater from Cd. Victoria, Tamaulipas, México. Six sampling points were selected at the oxidation lagoon, and the methane concentration inside the static flow chamber was recorded over a 10-minute period. A linear regression analysis was realized to obtain the slop, which is equivalent to the methane emission rate. A slope comparation using a t-test after check of homoscedasticity of samples were performed. Spatial analysis using kriging interpolation was used to obtain the distribution of the methane emission rate at the lagoon and Voronoi polygons were used to determinate the influence area of each sampling point to obtain the weighted average emission of methane. The spatial analysis showed a south to north gradient of the CH4 emission rate with an average of 6.6 ± 3.3 ppm CH4 /min, the estimated emission of methane was 821.69 kg CH4/day. The results of this study are like those reported for a freshwater body with a slightly contaminated mesotrophic condition. The use of the static flow chamber with MQ-4 sensor for methane is a fast and low-cost methodology that can be used to estimate the contribution of GHGs from oxidation lagoons.
Seismic fragility evaluation of skewed concrete I-girder bridges considering various types of structural system
Authors: Gholami Hesam , Memarpour Mohammad Mahdi , Soltanieh Soheil
Published: September 2023

This paper examines the seismic performance of multi-span reinforced concrete I-girder bridges considering irregularity effects associated with superstructure angle of skewness ranging from 0° to 60°. For this purpose, two prevalent superstructure systems, namely, multi-span simply supported and multi-span continuous, are considered. The boundary condition at superstructure-substructure interface of these systems is modeled assuming elastomeric bearing with steel dowels. In the case of multi-span continuous system, two more commonly applied types of bent-to-deck connection are considered, including pinned bent-to-deck connectivity and elastomeric bearings without steel dowels. Therefore, finite element models of the bridge considering four different structural systems are created, for which structural responses of individual components are estimated through nonlinear response history analyses using a suite of far-field ground motions. To compare seismic vulnerability of the most important components, such as columns and bearings, fragility assessment is implemented at four different limit states by developing probabilistic seismic demand models for each bridge model. In general, the findings suggest that the lowest and highest levels of column vulnerability are evident in the simply supported superstructure and continuous superstructure with pinned connectivity. In addition, evaluating simultaneous impacts of skewness and structural systems on the seismic response of bridge columns demonstrate that skewness may reduce the sensitivity of column response to variations of structural systems. At skew angle of 0°, the vulnerability of the column in the simply supported bridge is about 40% higher compared to that in the bridge with continuous superstructure supported by elastomeric bearings. However, this difference decreases to less than 10% at skew angle of 30°.
Effects of water chemistry, land use and climate change on waterbirds in a boreal lake complex
Authors: Bernal José Enrique Cano , Virkkala Raimo , Rankinen Katri
Published: September 2023

Brownification of freshwater is a global issue with many implications. The high accumulation of organic matter causing the darkening of freshwater is explained by numerous factors including climate and land use. One example of this alteration can be found in the population of waterbirds (fish eaters, diving and dabbling ducks and other species) in lakes Kukkia and Rautajärvi in Finland, where the number of waterbirds has decreased by 40% since the mid-1980s. We run Generalized Linear Mixed Models to determine how climatic, water chemistry and land use factors are interacting with one another and how those interactions impact waterbird density. Our results showed the significance of brownification and climatic factors, as COD (chemical oxygen demand) and turbidity of the water body and wind speed were the most relevant in explaining the decline of waterbirds.
Effect of inflammatory factors on myocardial infarction
Authors: Zeng Qingyi , Xu Tao , Luo Zhenghua , Zhou Haiyan , Duan Zonggang , Xiong Xinlin , Huang Mengjun , Wei Li
Published: September 2023

Background: Cohort studies have increasingly shown associations between inflammatory markers and myocardial infarction (MI); however, the specific causal relationships between inflammatory markers and the development of MI remain unclear.
Methods and results: By utilizing publicly accessible genome-wide association studies, we performed a two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis to explore the causal associations between inflammatory markers and myocardial infarction (MI). A random-effects inverse-variance weighted method was used to calculate effect estimates. Neutrophil count was found to increase the risk of MI (odds ratio [OR] = 1.08; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.00–1.17; p = 0.04). C-reactive protein levels correlated positively with MI. No associations were observed with IL-1 beta, IL-6, IL-18, procalcitonin, TNF-α, total white cell count, or neutrophil percentage of white cells. Neutrophil count and C-reactive protein were inversely associated with lactate dehydrogenase: neutrophil cell count (OR 0.95; 95% CI, 0.93–0.98; p<0.01) and C-reactive protein (OR 0.96; 95% CI, 0.92–1.00; p = 0.02). No associations of MI with myoglobin, troponin I, and creatine kinase-MB levels were found.
Conclusions: This two-sample MR analysis revealed a causal positive association of MI with neutrophil count, C-reactive protein level, and the myocardial injury marker lactate dehydrogenase. These results indicate that monitoring C-reactive protein and neutrophil counts may be useful in management of MI patients.
WITHDRAWN: Net of subsidies as a driver to tackle the negative impact of capital income tax on economic growth: A dynamic CGE application to CEMAC countries
Authors: Tchoffo Rodrigue Nobosse , Tchio Severin Sezine , Tafakeu M. , Dounya Claude Matsop
Published: September 2023

While theoretical studies proclaim positive effects of capital income tax on economic growth, empirical work exhibit mixed conclusions. However, there is a gap in the existing body of literature for studies addressing the mechanism is this dichotomy. This study contributes to fill this gap, by investigating the role that can play the net of subsidies in explaining the capital income tax effects on economic growth, focusing on the Central African Economic and Monetary Community (CEMAC) countries. It employs a dynamic Computable General Equilibrium (CGE) model to access these impacts using the 2015 Social Accounting Matrices (SAM). Simulations are carried out on the period 2023–2030 and findings reveal that, while most of the CEMAC countries exhibit a positive impact of indirect tax on commodities, only Chad and Gabon experience positive impacts for capital income tax. These countries figured out to exhibit negative net of subsidies which created a public deficit, challenged by capital income tax increase. The findings emphasize the potential for targeted investments in key sectors to harness net–of–subsidies’ positive impact on economic growth.
Jel classification: C68, O40, H25
Outcomes of Patients on Mechanical Ventilation among Adult Intensive Care Units of Tikur Anbesa Specialized Hospital, Addis Ababa , Ethiopia
Authors: Tsegay Kahsu , Teklu Tesfay , Debebe Finot , Beza Lemlem
Published: September 2023

Background
Mechanical ventilation is a supportive treatment for patients who are unable to maintain adequate oxygenation and/or removal of carbon dioxide. One of the most common indications of admission to the intensive care unit is the need for the ventilator support. Patients admitted to intensive care units who need mechanical ventilation had been higher mortality rates than those who do not require respiratory support. The objective of the study was to assess the clinical profile and outcomes of patients on mechanical ventilation among adult intensive care units of Tikur Anbessa Specialized Hospital, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, 2020.
Methods
Retrospective cross-sectional study was employed using a principal investigator developed (PI) data extraction form. We reviewed retrospectively a one-year medical record of ventilated patient from September 1, 2018- August 30, 2019. Data were analyzed using statistical package for social science (SPSS) version 25. Description of median frequency and standard deviation (SD) on each variable were calculated. Multivarte logistic regression was assessed to association between dependent and independent variable.
Results
There were 693 patients admitted to AICU over the one year and 348(50.2%) were mechanically ventilated. The main source for admission was Adult emergency and operation room with same percent (37.6%). The main reason for ICU admission was respiratory (55.2%). The predominant indication of mechanical ventilation was respiratory failure (41.9%), neurological failure (36.7%) and sepsis (11.4%). Volume control ventilation was the most common initial mode of ventilation used. In multivariable regression analysis being medical diagnosis patients, multi organ dysfunction syndrome and sedation used were statistically positively associated with mortality at p-value of less than 0.05 with CI 95%.
Conclusions
The mortality rate of Adult patients on mechanical ventilation in Tikur Anbessa specialized hospital was high. This high mortality rate suggesting an urgent need for extensive improvement in protocols for ICU set up.
Fish Sonar Image Recognition Algorithm Based on Improved YOLOv5
Authors: Xing Bowen , Sun Min , Ding Minyang , Han Chuang
Published: September 2023

Fish stock assessment is crucial for sustainable marine fisheries management in rangeland ecosystems. To address the challenges posed by overfishing of offshore fish species and to facilitate comprehensive deep-sea resource evaluation, this paper introduces an improved fish sonar image detection algorithm based on You Only Look Once version 5 (YOLOv5). Sonar image noise often results in blurred targets and indistinct features, thereby reducing the precision of object detection. Thus, the C3N module is designed in the neck component, where depth-separable convolution and an inverse bottleneck layer structure are integrated to lessen feature information loss during downsampling and forward propagation. Furthermore, A shallow feature layer is introduced in the network prediction layer to enhance feature extraction for pixels larger than 4x4. Additionally, Normalized Weighted Distance (NWD) based on a Gaussian distribution is combined with Intersection over Union (IOU) during gradient descent to improve small target detection and mitigate IOU's scale sensitivity. Finally, Traditional Non-Maximum Suppression (NMS) is replaced with Soft-NMS, reducing missed detections due to occlusion and overlapping fish targets common in sonar datasets. Experiments show the improved model surpasses the original model and YOLOv3 with gains in precision, recall, and mean average precision (mAP) of 2.3%, 4.7%, and 2.7%, respectively, and 2.5%, 6.3%, and 6.7%, respectively. These findings confirm the method's effectiveness in raising sonar image detection accuracy, consistent with model comparisons. With Unmanned Underwater Vehicles (UUV) advancements, this method holds the potential to support fish culture decision-making and facilitate fish stock resource assessment.