bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Implementation of SOGI-EPLL for DVR Control under Unbalanced and Distorted Grid Condition
Authors: Panchal Abhishek , Jaglan Ashish , Saroha Sumit , Singla Pardeep , Maitra Ramphal
Published: October 2024

Currently, electricity supply network is likely to encounter significant voltage distortions due to the extensive penetration of nonlinear loads into the grid. For safeguarding sensitive loads from these distortions and unbalanced grid conditions, a commonly employed solution is dynamic voltage restorer (DVR) with battery storage. For effective control over DVR, there is requirement of robust control algorithms which must include a precise controller capable of extracting accurate grid’s phase angle, frequency, and voltage magnitude which ensures that the reference DVR voltage is correctly determined. Therefore, a newly designed second-order generalized integrator (SOGI) based Enhanced Phase Locked Loop (EPLL) is proposed as the commonly used synchronous reference frame based phased locked loop (SRF-PLL) which fails to extract phase angle and frequency accurately. In order to check the effectiveness of proposed technique in terms of performance, the obtained results through MATLAB simulation are compared with SRF-PLL, SOGI PLL, Dual SOGI PLL and EPLL on various six cases of unbalanced grid conditions like: voltage sag, swell, harmonics and variation in fundamental frequency to mitigate the nonlinearities. Among the above techniques, proposed technique has shown its superiority under unbalanced grid conditions with lowest frequency overshoot of (50.13-50.27 Hz) and fastest settling time (10-30 ms).
Cardiovascular-kidney-metabolic syndrome predicted the risks of geriatric syndromes and mortality of major chronic diseases
Authors: Hao Meng , Zhang Hui , Li Yi , Wu Jingyi , Hu Zixin , Jiang Shuai , Sun Aijun , Jin Li , Wang Xiaofeng
Published: October 2024

Background
The American Heart Association (AHA) has introduced the cardiovascular-kidney-metabolic (CKM) syndrome as a systemic health disorder affecting nearly all organ systems. However, evidence supporting CKM syndrome health-related effects remains scarce, and its effects beyond its components are not studied.
Methods
Here, we used data from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS) to investigate the associations of CKM syndrome with adverse health outcomes, including functional disability, physical frailty, falls, hospitalization and mortality. Then, we examined the associations between CKM syndrome and all-cause and cause-specific mortalityusing data from the US National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES).
Results
CKM syndrome stages were independently associated with incident geriatric syndromes, including incident disability (OR, 1.2, [95% CI, 1.11-1.29]), frailty (OR, 1.28, [95% CI, 1.15-1.42]), falls (OR, 1.11, [95% CI, 1.06-1.17]), and hospitalization (OR, 1.19, [95% CI, 1.14-1.25]). Moreover, CKM syndrome stages independently predicted all-cause mortality (CHARLS: HR, 1.12 [95% CI, 1.06-1.18]; NHANES: HR, 1.34 [95% CI, 1.29-1.40]), and cause-specific mortality, including CVD (HR, 1.62, [95% CI, 1.50-1.75]), malignant neoplasm (HR, 1.20, [95% CI, 1.10-1.30]), respiratory disease (HR, 1.26, [95% CI, 1.07-1.49]). After adjusting for CKM components, the positive associations of CKM syndrome with geriatric syndrome and mortality were persisted, indicating that CKM syndrome has health implications beyond those of its component disorders. There were dose-effect relationships between CKM stages and risks of geriatric syndromes and mortality. Especially, advanced CKM syndrome (stage 3-4) exhibited higher risks of adverse outcomes along the CKM staging spectrum.
Conclusion
The findings revealed that CKM syndrome significantly impacted the overall health among middle-aged and older adults, advocating its application from CVD to geriatric community and multidiscipline clinical settings. It suggested the need for CKM syndrome assessment to predict and prevent geriatric syndromes and major chronic conditions, thereby reducing social and healthcare burdens. Moreover, these results provided empirical evidence for the validity and robustness of the CKM staging classification.
A growth model for citations networks
Authors: Castillo-Castillo Pedro , Stevens-Navarro Enrique , Pineda-Rico Ulises , Garcia-Barrientos Abel , Castillo-Soria Francisco R. , Acosta-Elias Jesus
Published: October 2024

Complex networks can exhibit different behaviors, there can be networks where the nodes, after being created, can continue to increase or decrease the number of their incoming and/or outgoing links. An example of these networks is the WWW, where the webmaster can add or delete hyperlinks on the web pages under their responsibility at any time. There are also networks where this can not happen. For example, in citation networks of scientific articles, after an article has been published, it will start gaining incoming links as it is cited, but the outgoing links will remain unchanged. Although articles are published with a fixed number of references, the distribution of their outgoing links follows a power law, as if they were the result of a preferential process. So how can we explain that the number of references an author includes in a scientific article is not purely random? In this work, a growth model of this type of complex network is presented, where it is proposed that the distribution of outgoing links can be shaped by the presence of communities.
Prevalence and determinants of healthy and balanced diet among office workers in Southern Sri Lanka
Authors: Godevithana Janaka , Wijesinghe Champa Jayalakshmie , Wijesinghe Millawage Supun Dilara
Published: October 2024

Background
An unhealthy diet is a key risk factor for non-communicable diseases (NCD), which account for a significant number of premature deaths and disability adjusted life years worldwide. Office workers are reported to have unhealthy and unbalanced diets, while being sedentary due to the nature of their work, placing them at a greater risk of NCD. This study aimed to determine dietary intake and associated factors among office workers in Southern Sri Lanka.
Methods
A cross-sectional study was conducted among 518 clerical workers in 20 offices in the Galle district. Socio-demographic, health, and work-related data with details on dietary practices were collected using a self-administered questionnaire. Twenty-four-hour dietary recall was used to assess dietary intake, which was converted into the number of servings of each food group. Healthy dietary intake was defined as ‘adherence to the numbers of servings recommended in Food Based Dietary Guidelines for Sri Lankan for more than three food groups including cereal and cereal-based foods, fruits, and vegetables, with the consumption of one or no unhealthy food per day’.
Results
Only 4.6% (n = 24) of the participants consumed a healthy diet, while a considerable proportion had the recommended intake of cereal-based foods, vegetables and fish, meat and pulses (65.3%, 65.8% and 50.8%, respectively). Fruit, dairy product, nut and seed intake was low among the participants. Meal skipping and group eating were significantly associated with an overall unhealthy diet. Stratified analysis showed sex as an effect modification for the association between group eating and unhealthy diet. In multivariate analysis none of the factors showed significant association with healthy dietary intake.
Conclusions
Dietary intake was suboptimal among Sri Lankan office workers, and selected eating behaviours are associated with an unhealthy dietary intake. This study recommends introducing health-promoting interventions for office workers to control dietary risk factors.
Genomic analyses revealed low genetic variation in the intron-exon boundary of the doublesex gene within the natural populations of An. gambiae s.l. in Burkina Faso
Authors: Kientega Mahamadi , Morianou Ioanna , Traoré Nouhoun , Kranjc Nace , Kaboré Honorine , Zongo Odette N , Millogo Abdoul-Azize , Epopa Patric Stephane , Yao Franck A. , Belem Adrien M G , Burt Austin , Diabaté Abdoulaye
Published: October 2024

Background
The recent success of a population control gene drive targeting the doublesex gene in Anopheles gambiae paved the way for development of self-sustaining and self-limiting genetic control strategies targeting the sex determination pathway to reduce and/or distort the reproductive capacity of insect vectors. However, targeting these genes for genetic control purposes requires a better understanding of their genetic variation in natural populations to ensure effective gene drive spread. Using whole genome sequencing data from the Ag1000G project (Ag3.0, 3.4 and 3.8), and Illumina pooled amplicon sequencing, we investigated the genetic polymorphism of the intron-4–exon-5 boundary of the doublesex gene in the natural populations of An. gambiae s.l.
Results
The analyses showed a very low variant density at the gRNA target sequence of the Ag(QFS)1 gene drive (previously called dsxFCRISPRh) within the populations of West and East Africa. However, populations from the forest area in Central Africa exhibited four SNP at frequencies ranging from 0.011 to 0.26. The SNP (2R:48714641[C > T]) at high frequencies, i.e. 0.26 is identified within the An. coluzzii population form Angola. The analyses also identified 90 low frequency (1% − 5%) SNPs in the genomic region around the gRNA target sequence (intron-4–exon-5 boundary). Three of these SNPs (2R:48714472 A > T; 2R:48714486 C > A; 2R:48714516 C > T) were observed at frequencies higher than 5% in the UTR region of the doublesex gene. The results also showed a very low variant density and constant nucleotide diversity over a five-year survey in natural An. gambiae s.l. populations of Burkina Faso.
Conclusion
These findings will guide the implementation of doublesex-targeted gene drives to support the current control tools in malaria elimination efforts. Our methods can be applied to efficiently monitor the evolution of any sequence of interest in a natural population via pooled amplicon sequencing, surpassing the need of WGS.
Radiotherapy and Inflammaging: The Influence of Prostate Cancer Radiotherapy on Systemic Inflammation
Authors: Paal Katarzyna , Stranz Bettina , Thurner Eva-Maria , Niedrist Tobias , Renner Wilfried , Langsenlehner Tanja
Published: October 2024

Purpose: The present study was performed to investigate the association of prostate cancer radiotherapy with inflammaging, a condition characterized by the elevation of inflammatory blood parameters that significantly increases the susceptibility to the occurrence or progression of age-related conditions.
Patients and Methods: A total of 306 patients treated with curative radiotherapy (RT) for prostate cancer were enrolled into the prospective study. Aging-related inflammatory parameters including C-reactive protein (CRP), albumin, fibrinogen, cholesterol, platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) were analyzed before and at the end of RT, and 3 and 15 months after completion of the RT. Statistical analysis was performed using non-parametric variance analysis.
Results: Overall variance analysis showed a significant influence of RT on all inflammatory parameters (p<0.001) with the exception of CRP (p=0.498). Pairwise analysis revealed a significant elevation of fibrinogen (p=0.041), NLR (p<0.001), and PLR levels (p<0.001) as well as a significant decrease of albumin (p<0.001) and cholesterol levels (p<0.001) during the RT course. After completion of RT, a significant recovery was detected for NLR, PLR, albumin and cholesterol. However, 15 months after RT, PLR, fibrinogen, and cholesterol remained significantly lower when compared to the baseline (p<0.001).
Conclusion: Our results indicate that radiation therapy triggers chronic inflammatory processes that could contribute to the development, acceleration or worsening of age-related alterations and conditions. Further investigations to estimate the long-term consequences of curative radiation therapy on clinical manifestations of aging are warranted.
The impact of health literacy on health behaviors in individuals with diabetes: findings from a population-based survey in South Korea
Authors: Lee JinWook , Kim Bomgyeol , Choi Soo Hyeok , Kim Do Hee , Kim Tae Hyun
Published: October 2024

Background
Diabetes management requires strict self-care and education, but patients with low health literacy may find it difficult to follow numerous lifestyle recommendations, leading to poor blood sugar control, increased risk of complications, and higher treatment costs. By maintaining a healthy lifestyle, patients with diabetes can prevent or delay adverse health outcomes. Therefore, it is important to identify individuals with low health literacy and seek ways to help them easily understand and use the information they need.
Methods
This study utilized data from the 2021 Korea Community Health Survey, focusing on 23,262 individuals aged ≥ 30 years with diabetes. Health literacy was defined using two variables: "Understanding Health Communication" and "Understanding Written Health Information." Health behaviors were defined meeting three criteria: non-smoking, not engaging in high-risk alcohol consumption, and regular walking. Covariates included sex, age, household income, education level, region, and self-reported health status Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to examine the impact of health literacy on health behaviors. Odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated.
Results
After adjusting for all variables, individuals who found it difficult to understand health communication had an OR for engaging health behaviors of 0.91 (95% CI = 0.83–0.99) compared to those who found it easy. Similarly, those who struggled to understand written health information had an OR for health behaviors of 0.87 (95% CI = 0.79–0.96), while individuals who did not pay attention to it had an OR of 0.83 (95% CI = 0.75–0.91).
Conclusions
This study revealed that low health literacy and not paying attention to health information act as obstacles to practicing health behaviors. This emphasizes the need for preventive interventions such as clear communication by healthcare professionals, the use of simple language, maintaining considerate attitudes, and utilizing visual aids in printed materials.
Stress-strain analysis of aluminum alloy cone bottom cylindrical parts in double-sided hydro-mechanical deep drawing process
Authors: Junfeng Lin , Liu Longyu , Xu Zhao
Published: October 2024

This paper analyzes the forming mechanism of double-sided hydro-mechanical deep drawing process of the sheet. Based on numerical simulation and experimental research, the forming process of aluminum alloy cone bottom cylindrical parts was investigated, the development of plastic deformation and the wall thickness distribution law were analyzed, and the change of stress paths in the yield locus of the typical points was given. The optical measurement method based on the DIC(digital image correlation) technology is applied to analyze the strain distribution of parts in different forming stages. The relationship between the Lode parameter and the invariant line of wall thickness and the strain type is summarized. It lays the theoretical foundation and practical application experience for the application of the double-sided hydro-mechanical deep drawing method in the field of sheet metal. The results of strain analysis, numerical simulation, and experiment show that the distributions of wall thickness are consistent during the forming process, the minimum wall thickness is located at the cone bottom of the cylinder part and the maximum wall thickness is located at the flange.
Study on the technology of blasting to squeeze silt and build embankment in deep muddy soft soil under complex environment
Authors: Li Jianfeng , An Pengyuan , Wu Ronghan , Cao Qintao , Li Linbin , Wang Feilan , Luo Yong
Published: October 2024

Blasting mud displacement technology has always played a crucial role in reclamation projects. To further analyze the effectiveness and application of blasting dike construction technology in complex thick silt soft soil layers, this study first utilized the excellent linear classification and prediction capabilities of Support Vector Machines (SVM) to construct a prediction model for dike slope displacement. Additionally, the traditional blasting mud displacement process was optimized by proposing a full lateral blasting mud displacement technique aimed at achieving mud-rock displacement in thick silt soft soil layers. The full lateral blasting mud displacement technique eliminates the need for end blasting, instead using lateral fixed-point and dike widening blasting methods to accomplish the mud displacement task. In the experimental results analysis section, the performance of SVM prediction models with different kernel functions was tested. The results indicated that the SVM model with the RBF kernel had the best prediction performance, with mean squared error values for different measurement points not exceeding 0.35. By adjusting the blasting parameters at different blasting sites and comparing the settlement values at four blasting sites using the full lateral blasting mud displacement technique, it was found that the construction plan is feasible, with all settlement values remaining within reasonable ranges. This study provides a new approach for mud-rock displacement in thick silt layers using blasting mud displacement technology in dike construction.
Ewing and Ewing-like-sarcoma tumoroid biobank reveals distinct drug sensitivities: translocation makes the difference
Authors: Clevers Hans , Ringnalda Femke , Son Gijs van , Verweij Laurens , Amo-Addae Vicky , Flucke Uta , Hiemcke-Jiwa Laura , Langenberg Karin , Bramer Jos , Heimans Lotte , de Sande Michiel van , Houdt Winan van , Noesel Max Van , Kerstens Hindrik , Santoso Marcel , Merks Johannes , Molenaar Jan , Boxtel Ruben van , de Wetering Marc van , Sanders Karin
Published: October 2024

Ewing sarcoma (ES) and Ewing-like sarcomas (ELS) are highly aggressive tumors in soft tissues and bone of mostly children and young adults. Despite being different in many aspects, including genetics, possible cell-of-origin, and pathology, patients with any of these entities all receive the same therapeutic regimen. Currently, there is a lack of preclinical cell models that can predict drug response of these entities in vitro. Here, we describe a pediatric ES and ELS tumor organoid (tumoroid) biobank containing tumoroids with different translocations, including EWSR1::FLI1, EWSR1::ERG, CIC::DUX4, and BCOR-rearrangements. Using histology, whole genome sequencing and RNA sequencing, we demonstrate that these tumoroids retain key properties of their matching patient tumors. In addition, we traced tumor subclones in the tumoroids across patient-matched longitudinal samples, which showed that cellular heterogeneity was maintained. We subsequently performed drug screening on the tumoroid models, which unveiled entity-specific drug sensitivity to various cytotoxic compounds and targeted compounds, including MCL-1 inhibitors for CIC::DUX4 sarcomas. Taken together, this newly established ES and ELS patient-derived tumoroid biobank represents a promising source of material for future basic cancer research and drug-screening.
The verification of quantum non-local correlation in ΛΛ- system
Authors: Liao Guangrui , Ping Ronggang , Qiao Cong-Feng
Published: October 2024

The non-locality of quantum correlations is a fundamental feature of
quantum theory. The Bell inequality serves as a benchmark for
distinguishing between predictions made by quantum theory and local
hidden variable theory (LHVT). Recent advancements in
photon-entanglement experiments have addressed potential loopholes and
have observed significant violations of variants of Bell inequality. However,
these violations do not completely disprove LHVT. To further rule out
LHVT, experiments involving massive-entangled particles are necessary,
in addition to those conducted with massless photons, which interact
electromagnetically. In this study, we utilize
(10.087±0.044)×109 J/ψ events collected with the BESIII
detector at the BEPCII collider. We present the non-local
correlation test of spin entanglement using a massive
ΛΛbar bipartite system, which is formed and decays through strong and weak interactions, respectively. Through measurements of the angular distribution
of p pbar in J/ψ→ γηc and subsequent
ηc→Λ(pπ-)Λbar(pbar π+) cascade decays,
a significant violation of LHVT predictions is observed in a
loophole-free test of a variant of the Bell inequality, which is given
by the Clauser-Horne inequality. The exclusion of LHVT is
determined to be significant at a level of 5.2σ.
Evaluating Cognitive Decline Detection in Aging Populations with Single-Channel EEG Features: Insights from Studies and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Molcho Lior , Maimon Neta B. , Zeimer Talya , Chibotero Ofir , Rabinowicz Sarit , Armoni Vered , On Noa Bar , Intrator Nathan , Sasson Ady
Published: October 2024

Timely detection of cognitive decline is paramount for effective intervention, prompting researchers to leverage EEG pattern analysis, focusing particularly on cognitive load, to establish reliable markers for early detection and intervention. This comprehensive report presents findings from two studies and a meta-analysis, involving a total of 237 senior participants, aimed at investigating cognitive function in aging populations. In the first study, 80 seniors were classified into two groups: 40 healthy individuals (MMSE > 28) and 40 at risk of cognitive impairment (MMSE 24–27). Dimensionality reduction models, such as Lasso and Elastic Net, were employed to analyze EEG features correlated with MMSE scores. These models achieved a sensitivity of 0.90 and a specificity of 0.57, indicating a robust capability for detecting cognitive decline. The second study involved 77 seniors, divided into three groups: 30 healthy individuals (MMSE > 27), 30 at risk of MCI (MMSE 24–27), and 17 with mild dementia (MMSE < 24). Results demonstrated significant differences between MMSE groups and cognitive load levels, particularly for A0 and Gamma band. A meta-analysis, combining data from both studies and additional data, included 237 senior participants and 112 young controls. Significant associations were identified between EEG biomarkers, such as A0 activity, and cognitive assessment scores including MMSE and MoCA, suggesting their potential as reliable indicators for timely detection of cognitive decline. EEG patterns, particularly Gamma band activity, demonstrated promising associations with cognitive load and cognitive decline, highlighting the value of EEG in understanding cognitive function. The study highlights the feasibility of using a single-channel EEG device combined with advanced machine learning models, offering a practical and accessible method for evaluating cognitive function and identifying individuals at risk in various settings.
Investigating the Mediating Effects of Urinary Phenols and Parabens on the Relationship Between Phthalate Exposure and Metabolic Changes in Adults
Authors: Ripon Rezaul Karim
Published: October 2024

Background
Phthalates and other environmental contaminants, such as phenols and parabens, have been implicated in metabolic health disturbances. This study investigates the mediating effects of urinary phenols and parabens on the relationship between phthalate exposure and Metabolic Changes in adults. Methods: Data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2009–2010 cycle were utilized, encompassing 1,669 adults. Phthalate exposure was measured via urinary Ethyl Paraben. BMI served as a proxy for metabolic health changes. The analysis employed mediation models to explore whether urinary phenols and parabens mediate the relationship between phthalate exposure and metabolic Changes, adjusting for covariates. Results: The median age of participants was 46 years, with nearly equal gender distribution (51% males and 49% females). The mediation analysis revealed significant mediation effects for Benzophenone-3 and Propyl Paraben. For Benzophenone-3, the Average Causal Mediation Effect (ACME) was − 0.000773 (95% CI: -0.001242 to 0.000, p < 2e-16), and the direct effect (ADE) was − 0.004198 (95% CI: -0.008295 to 0.000, p = 0.016). Similarly, Propyl Paraben presented significant mediation with an ACME of -0.00105 (95% CI: -0.00159 to 0.000, p = 0.020), and the direct effect (ADE) was − 0.00393 (95% CI: -0.00789 to 0.000, p = 0.036). Conclusion: This study provides robust evidence that specific urinary phenols and parabens significantly mediate the relationship between phthalate exposure and metabolic Changes, shedding light on the pathways through which environmental contaminants might influence metabolic health. The findings underscore the necessity for further research and regulatory measures to mitigate exposure to these chemicals and their impacts on metabolic health.
VaxSeer: Selecting influenza vaccine strains through evolutionary and antigenicity models
Authors: Shi Wenxian , Wohlwend Jeremy , Wu Menghua , Barzilay Regina
Published: October 2024

Current vaccines provide limited protection against rapidly evolving viruses. For example, the influenza vaccine's effectiveness has averaged below 40% for the past ten years. Today, clinical outcomes of vaccine effectiveness can only be assessed retrospectively. Prospective estimation of their effectiveness is crucial but remains under-explored. In this paper, we propose an in-silico method named VaxSeer that predicts expected vaccine effectiveness by considering both the future dominance of circulating viruses and antigenic profiles of vaccine candidates. Based on ten years of historical WHO data, our approach consistently selects superior strains than the annual recommendations. Finally, the prospective score we propose exhibits a strong correlation with retrospective vaccine effectiveness and reduced disease burden, highlighting the promise of this framework in driving the vaccine selection process. Predictions from our model for the 2024 and future winter seasons are available at https://wxsh1213.github.io/vaxseer.github.io/.
Minimally invasive flexible, wireless multimodal probe to detect compartment syndrome
Authors: Jin Sung Hun , Seo Seung Gi , Kim Seungyeob , Yoo Seonggwang , Oh Seyong , Luan Haiwen , Lv Zengyao , Lu Di , Park Yaeshin , Lee Jae Hee , Jo Hyeon-Bin , Westman Amanda , Moritz William , Ribaudo Joseph , Huang Yonggang , Pet Mitchell , Rogers John
Published: October 2024

Acute Compartment Syndrome (ACS) is a serious medical condition that arises from increased pressure within muscle compartments, leading to impaired blood flow and potential tissue damage. Early and accurate diagnosis is critical for preventing permanent damage. Current methods rely largely on qualitative assessments with limited accuracy, and those that exploit invasive pressure measurements often prove inadequate. Herein, we introduce a multimodal probe designed to monitor pressure, tissue oxygen saturation (StO2), and blood flow simultaneously at a common location within an affected compartment. The system integrates three sensors into a thin, flexible probe capable of real-time, wireless data transmission. The device allows for continuous monitoring with high reproducibility and sensitivity, to enhance diagnostic accuracy relative to current clinical practice, with the potential to reduce unnecessary fasciotomies. Large animal model studies, including short- and intermediate-term reliability assessments, highlight the key engineering features. The results reveal expected inverse relationships between pressure, StO2, and flow rate under simulated compartment syndrome conditions. This multimodal approach enhances diagnostic precision, offers real-time insights, and promises to yield improved outcomes through a comprehensive, quantitative assessment of compartment syndrome.
Trends and cross-country disparity in the burden of pulmonary arterial hypertension: results from Global Burden of Disease Study 2021
Authors: Zeng Zhilin , Pan Lanyue , Li Qinghai , Wang Qi , Cheng Sheng , Chen Qiuying , Huang Jiaquan , Yang Ruonan , Chen Huilong , Zhan Yuan
Published: October 2024

Background
Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a cardiopulmonary disease with complicated etiologies and classifications, gradually attracting extensive attention due to its ever-growing disease burden. Here, we aim to elucidate the PH burden and trends at global, regional and country levels over the past thirty-two years.
Methods
Data about PH prevalence, death and disability-adjusted life-years (DALYs) were obtained from Global Burden of Disease Study 2021. Moreover, the relationship between PH burden and social development index was explored. Eventually, the relevance of PH to four cardiopulmonary comorbidities were verified.
Results
From the global perspective, PH prevalence was annually rising from 1990 to 2021, primarily affecting females and young adults (age from 15 to 49). While PH death also elevated during the past 32 years and was the elder predomination. DALYs of PH presented a slightly overall decrease but surged in underdeveloped areas. Nevertheless, age-standardized death rate and DALYs exhibited significantly declines, especially in relatively developed regions with advanced healthcare resources. At meanwhile, correlation analysis demonstrated a certain negative association of SDI with age-standardized death rate or age-standardized DALYs either across 21 regions or 204 countries. Eventually, the prevalence of PH showed strongly positive associations with that of four cardiopulmonary disorders including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, interstitial lung disease, ischemic heart disease and hypertensive heart disease.
Conclusion
The current report suggested an increasingly serious burden of PH, particularly in less developed regions. Comprehensive understanding of PH epidemiology and high-risk comorbidities can benefit those dedicated to PH prevention and control.
Determination of design discharge and environmental flow in micro hydropower plants based on flow duration curve in small rivers: A Case Study of Hhaynu River -
Mbulu,Tanzania
Authors: Ngoma Daniel H.
Published: October 2024

In designing micro hydropower plants capacity, the amount of water flow discharge determination is very essential in estimating the power output for the micro hydropower scheme due to the fact that in recent years there has been an increase in water demand due irrigation activities because of an increase in agriculture activities [1]. From the literature, there are several methods that are used to determine hydro turbine water flow discharge but the most widely used method is the hydrological method which is based on the formulation of flow duration curve or hydrograph for the respective river flow based on site historical and measured hydrological data.
The hydrograph represents the amount of water flow in m3/s that is available for a particular river or stream in percentage from the historical hydrological data which has been computed over a period of more than one year. From the study of Hhaynu River which is a small river in Tanzania, the computed flow results show that, 8% of the time the flow is at 2.3 m3/s while at 50% of the time the river flow was at 1.86 m3/s and at 100% of the time the water flow was at 0.60 m3/s. When determining design discharge for run-of-river schemes, provision have to be considered for environmental flow on which for the Hhaynu River this has been analysed to be 0.2 m3/s (33.3% of river base flow) which resulted to the hydro-turbine development design water flow discharge of 0.4 m3/s from the computed flow duration curve with provision for environmental flow.
The usefulness of developing flow duration curve for rivers is to determine the available water flow in a particular small river and its suitability for micro hydropower development from estimates of the amount of water flow discharge.
Botnet Prevention using Blockchain for SDN based IoT Devices
Authors: Kamran Shehryar , Shafi Qaisar
Published: October 2024

The Internet of Things (IoT) sector is being targeted by increasing botnets that can disrupt networks. This paper solves this problem by introducing a Software Defined Networks (SDNs) and blockchain integrated system focused on blocking IOT device botnets, such as Mirai.
Their goal is to construct a model that combines the controllability of SDN with the unchangeable and distributed features in blockchain. It would detect botnet activities through network traffic analysis, improve security with blockchain and be a scalable solution for large networks of devices.
The efficacy of this model was tested in a simulated environment, which resembles actual network situations. Ryu controllers synced Open vSwitch instances with emulated IoT devices using a blockchain platform made of Hyperledger Fabric. Finally, testing was carried out in Mininet, for network emulation and also ger- mini, for botnet attack simulation. Ryu applications running over x-trust-domain interfaces were developed to capture and detect botnet behaviours; as necessary, they both dropped malicious packets and took enforcement actions.
The results proved the efficiency of the developed model to detect botnet attacks and to increase network security. Peripheral nature and scope of centralized model meant it could be deployed at a larger scale. This study paves the way for implementing proactive security solutions within IoT ecosystems.
Enhancing Healthcare Delivery Through Digital Health Interventions: A Systematic Review on Telemedicine and Mobile Health Applications in Low and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs)
Authors: Jones-Esan Lawrence , Somasiri Nalinda , Lorne Keda
Published: October 2024

This study explores the role of telemedicine and mobile health (mHealth) technologies in improving healthcare delivery within low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). A thorough review of existing literature reveals that these technologies have made significant strides in enhancing healthcare access, diagnostics, and patient outcomes, particularly in underserved and remote areas. Key findings indicate that telemedicine has played a crucial role in enabling early disease detection, boosting maternal and child health, and promoting improved medication adherence among patients. Nevertheless, the study also uncovers significant barriers that impede the effective implementation of these technologies, including inadequate infrastructure, unreliable internet connections, limited digital literacy, regulatory challenges, lack of funding, and a shortage of trained healthcare professionals. Additionally, the review notes its limitations, such as the omission of grey literature and inconsistencies in regional research coverage, which may impact the overall findings. To address these challenges, the study emphasises the need for LMICs to invest in technological infrastructure, improve digital literacy, create comprehensive regulatory frameworks, and secure sustainable funding sources. Furthermore, integrating telemedicine into national healthcare strategies and enhancing public awareness are critical steps to fully leverage the advantages of these technologies, ultimately fostering equitable healthcare access and improved health outcomes in resource-constrained environments.
Hybrid Red Fox and Improved Whale Optimization Algorithm-based Clustering scheme for improving network longevity in Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Rajaboina Nagendra Babu
Published: October 2024

Guaranteeing energy stability is highly challenging in Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs) as it contributes towards an enhanced network lifespan. Clustering with improved energy efficacy is found to be an NP-hard optimization problem with the possibility of offering extended network lifespan. Several computational methods that comprise of nature inspired meta-heuristic as well as reinforcement schemes along with evolutionary algorithms are used for supporting effectual clustering in WSNs. The heuristic and meta-heuristic schemes of CH selection designed for dealing with optimization problems using empirical behaviour was identified to be ideal in better clustering process. In this paper, Hybrid Red Fox and Improved Whale Optimization Algorithm (HRFIWOA)-based Clustering scheme is proposed enhancing lifespan expectation and energy constancy in WSNs. This HRFIWOA is proposed with the global optimization competence of the Red Fox Optimization Algorithm (RFOA) and local optimization capability of Improved Whale Optimization Algorithm (IWOA). It specifically included IWOA into RFOA for achieving and sustaining a balance amid the stages of exploration and exploitation which is demanded for optimised CH selection. The adopted IWOA helps in better exploitation of the solution that comprises of information pertaining to the sensor nodes which can be potentially identified as CH in the network. The simulation results of the proposed HRFIWOA confirmed promising capability in improving the packet deliver rate by 20.96%, network lifespan by 18.54%, throughput by 17.62% with reduced latency of 19.28%, and minimized energy consumption of 22.39%, better than the competitive CH selection schemes used for investigation.
Behavioural and biochemical studies of Schumanniophyton magnificum (K.schum) leaves in mice.
Authors: Olusola Ayomide , Asowata-Ayodele Abiola M. , Afolabi Felix , Salemcity Aanuoluwa J. , Olatuyi Olalekan
Published: October 2024

Current evidences indicate that efforts to develop novel antipsychotic agents with multipronged mechanisms of action have been limited. The study evaluated the behavioural activities of ethanolic extract of Schumanniophyton magnificum leaves in mice. It investigated the neuro-behavioral and antioxidant properties of the ethanolic extract of Schumanniophyton magnificum leaves administered through the oral route of mice at different doses for 14 days. The behavioral assessment was demonstrated using the Open Field Test for assessing the ketamine-induced hyperlocomotion, Y-Maze test was used for assessing the behavior, learning and memory (cognition) and novel object recognition test to evaluate the willingness of the mice to explore new environment or object in animal models of the central nervous disorders. This research shows that after 14 days of administration, the animals were sacrificed and antioxidant bioassay was carried out on the brain. Schumanniophyton magnificum treatment (100, 200, and 400 mg/kg) significantly (P < 0.05) reduced hyper-locomotion induced by ketamine, which is a predictor of positive symptoms. Schumanniophyton magnificum treatment (100 and 400 mg/kg) significantly enhanced spatial memory formation preventing cognitive deficits by ketamine. Additionally, Schumanniophyton magnificum treatment (100, 200, and 400 mg/kg) significantly increased the SOD & CAT activities, as well as decreased MDA levels, this is suggesting that the antipsychotic-like action of Schumanniophyton magnificum maybe through inhibition of oxidative crises induced by ketamine. Therefore this plant might be one of the plants to watch out for the treatment of psychosis.
Synthesis, Characterization and Catalytic Activity of Polyethylene Glycol (PEG) Functionalized MXene (Ti3C2Tx) for Methylene Blue Dye Degradation Under UV Light Irradiation
Authors: Mamun Muhammad Shamim Al , Rahman Maisha , Takaoka Tsuyoshi , Komeda Tadahiro , Aly Mohamed Aly Saad , Nasiruddin Md , Alahmad Waleed
Published: October 2024

The emerging field of two-dimensional (2D) transition metal carbides and nitrides, collectively known as MXene (Ti3C3Tx), has garnered significant attention in recent years due to their remarkable properties and multifaceted applications. This work explores the synthesis, characterization and functionalization of MXene with polyethylene glycol (PEG) and its influence on the degradation process of organic dye methylene blue (MB) is investigated. The functionalization of MXene with PEG is detailed, showcasing the diverse chemistries and functionalities these organic compounds bring to the MXene nanosheets. PEG imparts hydrophilicity and stability, and promotes catalytic activity. Further the mechanisms of dye degradation involving MXene-PEG materials are elucidated, highlighting the synergistic effects of MXene and functional groups on the enhanced degradation rates. This work underscores the versatility of MXene as a platform for environmental applications and the significant impact of functionalization with organic molecules on their performance. The findings of this work revealed that when MXene-based nanomaterials suitably functionalized with PEG, they exhibit immense potential in the reduction of methylene blue (MB) dye with a record breaking first order rate constant of 0.16581 ± 0.030 min− 1.
Pemanfaatan Aplikasi Canva sebagai Media Pembelajaran Menulis Teks Iklan bagi Siswa SMP
Authors: Rotunnaja Nina Ina , Ambia Tintina Putri , Taufik Indra Nugrahayu
Published: October 2024

Writing skills are one of the language skills that are often considered difficult. This is reflected in the lack of interest among students in writing activities. One of the writing activities that is quite challenging is writing advertisement texts, because conveying thoughts or information involves not just writing but also requires various attractive images and colors. Therefore, it is necessary to use learning media that can support educators in delivering the material for writing advertisement texts. In this digital era, educators should indeed take advantage of technology and digitalization in the learning process. One alternative that can support the activity of writing advertisement texts is the use of the Canva application for writing and designing ads or posters. This is because Canva is one of the applications that provides tools for creating infographic designs, posters, videos, graphics, brochures, logos, presentations, and more. So this research aims to determine the utilization of the Canva application in writing advertisement texts. The method used in this research is qualitative descriptive analysis. The results of this study indicate that the Canva application can support the ability to write advertising texts for middle school students. This is because the application provides a variety of features that can aid in learning to write advertising texts.
Metode Pembelajaran Cooperative Learning Script dalam Pembelajaran Keterampilan Menyimak Kelas X SMA Islam Darun Najah
Authors: Wasi'ah Wasi'ah
Published: October 2024

Listening comprehension is one of the fundamental aspects in the development of language skills. Through effective listening learning, students can enhance their ability to understand and interpret verbal messages more effectively. The use of the cooperative learning script method in the classroom learning process can address the issues that arise during the learning process. This method trains students to be confident when presenting in front of the class. This cooperative learning script method can also be used by teachers to assess students' understanding of listening skills learning. This research uses a qualitative approach with a descriptive type. The respondents of this research are tenth-grade students of Darun Najah Islamic High School. The data collection techniques in this study use observation, questionnaires, interviews, and documentation. The research results indicate that the cooperative learning script method can be used as a method in listening instruction, particularly for the material of folk tales. This cooperative learning script method can assist teachers in delivering the material of folk tales during the learning process. The cooperative learning script method can have a positive impact on listening skills development. In addition, the cooperative learning method has become an interesting way to boost students' enthusiasm for learning in the classroom.
Nilai Pendidikan Karakter dalam Novel Laut Pasang 1994 Karya Lilpudu sebagai Alternatif Bahan Ajar Pembelajaran Sastra di SMA
Authors: Puspitarani Dela Ayu
Published: October 2024

Penanaman pendidikan karakter di lembaga pendidikan masih lemah. Penanaman pendidikan karakter tidak bisa hanya sekadar mentransfer ilmu pengetahuan atau melatih suatu keterampilan tertentu. Penanaman pendidikan karakter perlu proses, contoh teladan, dan pembiasan atau pembudayaan dalam lingkungan peserta didik. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menemukan nilai-nilai pendidikan karakter yang terdapat dalam novel “Laut Pasang 1994” dan untuk mengetahui penggunaannya sebagai alternatif bahan ajar pembelajaran sastra, khususnya pada materi menganalisis isi novel di SMA. Sumber data penelitian ini adalah novel “Laut Pasang 1994”. Metode yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah deskriptif dengan pendekatan kualitatif. Teknik penelitian yang digunakan adalah teknik analisis data dengan melakukan kajian terhadap novel “Laut Pasang 1994” dan menganalisis isi di dalamnya. Berdasarkan penelitian yang telah dilakukan, terdapat temuan nilai-nilai pendidikan karakter dalam novel “Laut Pasang 1994” karya Lilpudu. Nilai-nilai tersebut, yaitu nilai religius, nilai jujur, nilai toleransi, nilai disiplin, nilai kerja, nilai kreatif, nilai mandiri, nilai demokratis, nilai rasa ingin tahu, nilai cinta tanah air, nilai menghargai prestasi, nilai bersahabat atau komunikatif, nilai cinta damai, nilai peduli sosial, dan nilai tanggung jawab. Hasil penelitian juga menunjukkan jika nilai-nilai pendidikan karakter dalam novel tersebut dapat dijadikan alternatif bahan ajar pembelajaran sastra di SMA dengan materi menganalisis isi novel.
Ethical Decision Making in a Child with Brain Death
Authors:   Paediatric Department, Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kelantan, MALAYSIA, Mohd Radzi Muhammad Amiro Rasheeq , Che Nik Mohd Anas ,   Paediatric Department, Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kelantan, MALAYSIA, Mohd Radzi Nursyahirah Anum ,   Paediatric Department, Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kelantan, MALAYSIA, Mior Abdullah Nur Aisyah ,   Paediatric Department, Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kelantan, MALAYSIA, Shamsuddin Mohd Assyakir ,   Paediatric Department, Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kelantan, MALAYSIA, Jusili Syamila Huda ,   Paediatric Department, Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kelantan, MALAYSIA, Yahaya Muhammad Hafiz Lutfi ,   Paediatric Department, Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kelantan, MALAYSIA, Taib Fahisham ,   Paediatric Department, Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kelantan, MALAYSIA,   Paediatric Department, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kelantan, MALAYSIA, Subramaniam Shamini ,   Paediatric Department, Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kelantan, MALAYSIA
Published: October 2024

Diagnosing brain death in paediatrics is difficult due to emotional, ethical, and legal weightage. This can easily be resolved in a straightforward case following a series of examinations and investigations to confirm that the condition is irreversible. However, in some cases, consideration of religio-cultural, family preferences, and other contextual factors have to be carefully considered. This is due to challenges in ethical decision making whether to continue the treatment or to set for discontinuation of active management. There should be an emphasis on appropriate communication, resolution of conflicts and also a focus on supporting the family and healthcare providers involved in the care of the patient. This is to avoid misunderstanding of information and allowing continuous discussion on the right way forward. Decision making in a complex situation such as paediatric brain death would require ongoing negotiation based on the best interest and beneficence of the medical actions to avoid ongoing suffering for the patient and his/her family.