bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Outbreak investigation of Streptococcus pyogenes in South Gondar Zone, Amhara Region, North west Ethiopia, 2023
Authors: Yirga Amare , Abebaw Dessie , Fekadu Mesafint , Tilahun Mekuria , Lankir Damtie 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Background
Despite being in existence for hundreds of years, Streptococcus pyogenes remains a significant cause of global morbidity and mortality, with a particular impact in resource-limited settings like Ethiopia. The investigation was undertaken to identify the etiologic agent and control the outbreak, identifying the potential risk factors, describe its epidemiology and to prevent further similar outbreak.
Methods
Unmatched community-based case-control with descriptive cross-sectional survey were conducted in Soth Gondar Zone of Andabet and Dera districts from December 10, 2022 to January 10, 2023). Active cases search was done through house-to-house by using epidemiological linked case definition and a total of 914 residents were attacked by the outbreak. A face-to-face interview using structured questionnaire was carried out to collect data. Epi data version 4.6 and STATA version 17 software were used for data entry and analysis respectively. Binary logistic regression analysis was computed and variables with P-value of ≤ 0.05 were considered as statistically significant risk factors.
Result
Group A beta-hemolytic streptococcus pyogenes was identified during the outbreak investigation. The overall attack rate of the infection was 22.2 per 1000 population. The logistic regression analysis revealed that, contact with cases (OR = 5.98; 95% CI 2.91–12.25), poor personnel hygiene (OR = 0.37, 95 a% CI (0.2–0.66), shortage of water for hygiene (OR = 2.2; 95% CI 1.27–3.76), poor wearing style (OR = 0.41; 95% CI 0.23–0.70) and history of injury (OR = 9. 8; 95% CI 5.85–18.41) were statically significant risk factors.
Conclusions
Contact with cases, poor hygiene practice, poor wearing style, shortage of water for hygiene, and history of injury were the risk factor for streptococcus pyogenic transmission. Avoiding direct contact with cases, encourage hygiene practice, preventing individuals from injury and improving wearing style should be recommended. S. pyogenes infection should be included in the public health surveillance system for urgent response.
Cohort study protocol: investigating the impact of occupational radiation exposure on chronic non-communicable diseases among interventional radiology and nuclear medicine radiation workers - the chongqing radiation workers cohort study (CRWs)
Authors: Wu Mengyun , Li Wei , Wang Jinhan , Zhang Huadong , Gu Yeqing 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Background
While it is established that interventional radiology and nuclear medicine radiation workers constitute an ideal cohort for low-dose irradiation studies within the spectrum of occupational radiation exposure, there is a noticeable lack of comprehensive cohort investigations both domestically and internationally. Addressing this gap, the Chongqing radiation workers (CRWs) cohort study has been formulated to systematically assess the impact of occupational radiation exposure on chronic non-communicable diseases (NCDs) among professionals in these fields. Additionally, the study aims to evaluate the influence of factors such as occupational radiation dose, demographic characteristics, lifestyle, and dietary habits on the incidence and progression of NCDs. Crucially, researchers will delve into dose reconstruction for this specific population, including considerations such as sensitive organs, cumulative dose, and biological dose.
Methods
The CRWs study adopts a retrospective and prospective cohort design, with plans to enroll approximately 6000 participants from Chongqing commencing in 2023. The principal objective is to examine the impact of occupational radiation exposure on NCDs. Various data, including questionnaires, radiation dose forms, physical examination results, and biological samples, will be systematically collected and analyzed. A sustained follow-up over 20–30 years will be conducted, continuously documenting both radiation dose and health-related data.
Discussion
The cohort ensures lifelong follow-up and furnishes comprehensive data on multiple variables, yielding pivotal insights into the risk factors and consequences of occupational radiation exposure in interventional and nuclear medicine environments on NCDs. Our formulation of a plan for dose reconstruction in radiation-sensitive organs significantly addresses the current critical concern. The sample size in CRWs is limited, impeding the collection of numerous outcomes in a short timeframe; thus, necessitating a prolonged and thorough follow-up for the study. The observed gender imbalance among groups may introduce bias when estimating the relationship between exposure factors and NCDs.
Trial registration
The protocol has been registered on National Health Security Information Platform and Medical Research Information Filing Information System. MR-50-23-009837.https://www.medicalresearch.org.cn/login
Multi-objective optimal design of Tuned Mass Damper Inerter for base isolated structures
Authors: Yue Zhihua , Han Guangcai , Wu Yanhong 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
The BIS-TMDI is a hybrid control strategy that significantly reduces the seismic response of structures compared to conventional BIS through proper tuning, albeit with the trade-off of increased control forces exerted by the TMDI on the host building structure. However, these potentially significant forces are generally not considered in current TMDI tuning approaches. In this paper, a multi-objective optimization design method is herein developed to determine the compromise between the competing objectives of suppressing earthquake-induced vibrations in buildings and avoiding the generation of excessive control forces of TMDI. The study shows that under non-stationary excitations, the average control force of the TMDI system can be reduced by 16% compared to single optimization constraint, with a maximum reduction of up to 25%. Finally, the optimization design methods of this paper are applied to an 8-story frame as a validation case.
The Enhanced Binary Mountain Gazelle Optimization Algorithm for 0-1 Knapsack Problems
Authors: BAS Emine , IHSAN Aysegul 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Algorithms serve as the backbone of computer science, permeating diverse fields with their indispensable applications. The Knapsack Problems (KP), an optimization puzzle, revolves around the judicious selection of items characterized by their values and weights to maximize utility within the constraints of a limited-capacity container. This study introduces a pioneering mathematical optimization approach inspired by the nuanced behaviors of natural gazelles. Delving deep into the intricate hierarchical and social dynamics inherent in gazelle behavior, the Binary Mountain Gazelle Optimizer (BinMGO) emerges as a standout. Empowered by six diverse transfer functions, spanning from S-shaped to X-shaped varieties, BinMGO is finely tuned to address 0–1 KP. After evaluating six BinMGO variants, the most effective one is identified. Acknowledging the limitations posed by transfer functions, BinMGO undergoes additional refinement, resulting in the developing of the Enhanced Binary Mountain Gazelle Optimizer (EBinMGO), employing multiple mutation techniques tailored specifically for addressing 0–1 KP. Thorough experimentation conducted on 0–1 KP datasets highlights EBinMGO's superiority over renowned swarm intelligence algorithms such as Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves (AFT), Prairie Dog Optimization Algorithm (PDO), Pelican Optimization Algorithm (POA), and Snake Optimizer (SO). The consistent proficiency demonstrated by EBinMGO in delivering superior outcomes across all experimental results positions EBinMGO as a promising solution for binary optimization challenges. Furthermore, this study provides valuable insights into mutation-based optimization algorithms, offering potential avenues for addressing complex problems inspired by nature's intricacies.
Novel efficient reservoir computing methodologies for regular and irregular time series classification
Authors: Li Zonglun , Andreev Andrey , Hramov Alexander , Blyuss Oleg , Zaikin Alexey 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Time series is a data structure prevalent in a wide range of fields such as healthcare, finance and meteorology. Analyzing time series data holds the key to gaining insight into our day-to-day observations and among them, time series classification offers the unique opportunity to classify the sequences into their respective categories for the sake of automated detection. To this end, two types of mainstream approaches, recurrent neural networks and distance-based methods, have been commonly employed to address this specific problem. However, the most successful ones such as Long Short-Term Memory networks generally suffer substantially high computational demand, prompting the search for more efficient alternatives to reduce energy costs. Reservoir computing is an instance of recurrent neural networks that is known for its efficiency in processing time series sequences. Therefore, in this article, we will develop two reservoir computing based methods that can effectively deal with time series of different types with minimal computational cost, all while achieving a desirable level of classification accuracy.
Mathematics Subject Classification (2020) 34A34 · 62P10 · 68T07
Effective planning and forecasting of the future demand for healthcare workforce in Mongolia up to 2030: A system dynamics model analysis
Authors: Samdankhuu Gal-Erdene , Munkhgerel Tumennast , Myagmar-Ochir Enkhtuguldur , Baatarpurev Baljinnyam , Khuyagaa Ser-Od , Budjav Uuganbayar , Tserenkhuu Lkhagvasuren , Gomboo Alimaa 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Background:
In Mongolia, a shortage of healthcare professionals, who play a key role in delivering healthcare, has been identified as a major medical issue. To address this issue, it is necessary to ensure that the strategic development of healthcare human resources aligns with the increasing population and morbidity rates. To facilitate effective planning, a system dynamics model was developed to predict the future demand and supply for healthcare specialists in Mongolia.
Methods:
We obtained data on the number of residency training specialists recruited from 2014 to 2020. The causal loop diagram of the Mongolian healthcare human resources model is described. It comprises a total of five causal links, three of which are positive and two of which are negative. The resource and flow diagram depicts the inputs, outputs, and accumulation of resources. The main goal of the model is to calculate the future demand for specialists in two scenarios: the total number of specialists and the number of necessary specialists. The total number of specialists is calculated based on the "Current Workforce" submodel and the "Medical Education" submodel.
Results:
Projections indicate an anticipated shortage of 226 specialists by 2030. A strategic 17.5% increase in the number of residency training entrants by 2023 effectively addresses this gap, with a full workforce fulfillment expected by 2026.
Conclusions:
A shortage of healthcare professionals is observed in Mongolia. Our results suggest that the streamlined way to strategically plan healthcare human resources effectively. A well-structured admission process for residency training indicates that the fulfillment of the demand for specialists will commence by 2026.
Evaluating Building Defects and Maintainability of Tertiary Institutions in Owerri Metropolis, Nigeria
Authors: Nwankwo Nwankwo Stephen Ikpendu , Victoria Nwankwo Chidiuto 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Institutional building should provide conducive environment that would enable staff and students perform optimally. This functional requirement is sustainable through maintenance. A cognizance survey through tertiary institutions in Owerri metropolis, revealed alarming rate of building defects. The research is aimed at evaluating these defects and their maintainability, with a view to recommending appropriate solutions for overall improvement. The objectives were to: determine the nature and extent of defects; concepts that are not in line with design for maintainability; mode of maintenance; limiting factors; and consequences of delayed maintenance. A case study of randomly selected buildings from the five tertiary Institutions in Owerri was adopted. Copies of structured questionnaire were administered to a sample size of 153 respondents in-charge of maintenance, using stratified systematic random sampling technique. Analysis of responses was done using descriptive and quantitative statistics. The findings revealed wrong design decisions that contributed to the defects and high maintenance frequency, such as climatic-non-compliant design concept, inaccessibility of building components, and wrong specifications. Maintenance delay caused: decline in capital value, disruption of work flow, risk of users health and safety, high cost of repairs, post-occupancy modification and acceleration of building failure. Major obstacles were: lack of maintenance culture; improper supervision; and under-funding. The paper recommended that: designers should adopt design concept responsive to tropical climate; government should increase the intervention fund giving to the institutions; while the legislature enacts laws to regulate and create awareness of maintenance culture.
Optimization Technique on Dynamics of Carbon Dioxide to Controlling Global Warming
Authors: Mehmood Abid , Hassan Mohsan 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Background
Carbon dioxide is increasing in the atmosphere day by day due to diverse sources increasing global warming. Meeting the energy demands of the expanding human population, large-scale carbon dioxide (CO2) is produced. Effective reduction of CO2 emissions from the energy sector and others through optimization is required to reduce global warming.
Model:
This paper presents a mathematical model that captures the dynamic relationship between carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere, human population dynamics, energy use, and the progression of global warming as distinct sections. Real-time data from these sections are utilized to adjust model parameters.
Methodology:
Firstly, the stability analysis of the proposed model is examined to determine whether solutions remain bounded or converge to specific states on the equilibrium points. Secondly, sensitivity analysis of the model is investigated and determines the behavior of the dynamic system on changes in parameters. Lastly, the optimization technique is applied to the model to reduce global warming by optimizing the level of CO2 emission from the energy sector.
Results
Through optimization, results show that global warming is majorly reduced when the CO2 emission from the energy sector is reduced.
Novelty:
The thorough analysis and validation of the proposed model offer valuable insights for devising effective strategies to mitigate climate change.
Assessment and Experimental Development Analysis Study of an Ion Thruster
Authors: Roy Biswadip , Sasmal Milan , Mondal Dipan 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
When we speak of thrusters the first thing came into mind was engines with propellers which pulls air from one side and throws it back from the opposite side to create thrust but can’t operate in vacuum so we invented chemical thruster which can operate in space and uses a mixture of oxidizer and fuel to generate thrust. But thrust can also be produced by using ions and that kind of thrusters are known as ion thrusters it uses gasses as fuel and high voltage to turn those gasses to ions with tremendous velocity which interns produce thrust. The first functional ion engine sent to space could produce a thrust of only 91 mN[5] of thrust and uses xenon as fuel because of its higher mass value and because it’s a inert gas. However, with no gravity in space, this small thrust accelerated the space­craft to an amazing 41,260 km/hr speed. Our aim will be to increase the efficiency and thrust production capability by applying some change in the existing model and to check if we can run this thruster with regular air at 1atm and can have similar or better results than using Xenon as a propellant.
With the improvement of technologies ion thruster technologies has also seen many breaks through form producing a mere amount of 91mN thrust to 5N of thrust produced by NASA’s X3 prototype in 2017.[2] So, there is a high chance that ion thrusters will replace chemical thrusters in near future and it may also replace the mechanical thruster which uses propellers.
Unravelling associations of personality traits, emotion regulation strategies, coping styles, and psychopathology with suicide risk in university students: A network perspective
Authors: Misiak Błażej , Frydecka Dorota , Szewczuk-Bogusławska Monika 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Background: University students often face with adjustments to novel social contexts. This process, especially in light of maladaptive personality traits, coping styles, and emotion regulation strategies might lead to the emergence or worsening of mental disorders. Consequently, university students are likely to develop suicide-related outcomes. Therefore, in the present study, we aimed to assess the association of personality traits, emotion regulation strategies, coping styles, and psychopathology with suicide risk in university students using a network analysis.
Methods: A total of 1653 university students (aged 21.6 ± 3.0 years, 71.8% females) were enrolled and assessed using self-reports administered in the internet-based survey.
Results: There were significant and positive edges of the node representing suicide risk with almost all psychopathological symptoms (except for psychotic-like experiences), avoidance coping, impulsiveness, and venturesomeness. Also, there were significant and negative connections of the node for suicide risk with problem-focused coping, cognitive reappraisal, and empathy. Among all significant connections with suicide risk, the strongest one was found for dissociation symptoms. Edge weight for this connection was significantly higher compared to all other connections with suicide risk. However, the greatest bridge centrality was obtained for avoidance coping. It was significantly higher compared to bridge centralities of all other nodes in the network.
Conclusions: The most important findings from the present study indicate that enhancing adaptive coping strategies should serve as the target for interventions that aim to reduce suicide risk among university students. Also, the recognition and treatment of dissociation symptoms should be the priority of potential interventions.
Confidence Intervals for Finite Mixture Regression Based on Resampling Techniques
Authors: Griesbach Colin , Hepp Tobias 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Finite Mixture Regression is a popular approach for regression settings with present but unobserved sub-populations. Over the past decades an extensive toolbox has been developed covering various kinds of distributions and effect types. As for any other thorough statistical analysis, reporting of e.g.\ confidence intervals for the parameters of the latent models is of high practical relevance. However, standard theory neglects the additional variability arising from also estimating class assignments, which consequently leads to the corresponding uncertainty estimates usually being too optimistic. In this work we propose a resampling technique for finite mixture regression models to construct confidence intervals for the regression coefficients in order to hold the type-I error threshold. The mechanism relies on bootstrapping which already proved useful for different problems arising for mixture models in the past and is evaluated via various simulation studies and two real world applications. Overall, the routine successfully holds the type-I error threshold and is less computationally expensive than alternative approaches.
The Role of Sodium Phenylbutyrate and Suramin in the Prevention of Ulcerative Colitis Induced by Dextran Sulfate Sodium
Authors: Ozal-Coskun Cansu , Karaman Ecem Fatma , Ozden Sibel , Kaptan Engin , Arda Pelin 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Ulcerative colitis is an inflammatory bowel disease characterized by inflammation and increased oxidative stress in the colon tissue. Sodium phenylbutyrate (PBA) and suramin are histone deacetylase inhibitors that alter gene expression keeping histones in the acetylated form. Our aim in this study was to determine the effects of PBA and suramin on colon tissue in an acute colitis model in mice and to clarify the mechanisms of their action. Ulcerative colitis was induced by 3% dextran sulfate sodium (DSS). After PBA and suramin injection, disease activity index (DAI) and colitis scoring were used to verify colitis damage. Alterations in proliferation, antioxidant enzyme activities and oxidative stress were shown by Ki-67 immunohistochemistry and spectrophotometry respectively. Active caspase-3 and COX-2 as well as cytokine levels and H3K9me3 histone modification were designated by Western blotting. The gene expression of STAT1, STAT3 and SIRT were analyzed by real-time PCR. DSS treatment increased DAI, MDA, MPO, TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, caspase-3 and COX-2 levels, and decreased Ki-67, IL-10, GSH levels and antioxidant enzyme activities in the colon tissue. Injection of PBA or suramin into DSS-treated animals significantly prevented colitis damage by improving the manifestations. Also, both of them induced significant changes in STAT and SIRT gene expressions and histone modifications compared to the DSS colitis group. Our study demonstrated that PBA and suramin have anti-apoptotic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and protective effects in DSS-induced ulcerative colitis. Considering these results, PBA and suramin can be potential agents to be used therapeutically in inflammatory bowel diseases.
The Experıance Of Tertıary Center For Adult Granulosa Cell Tumor: Whıch Factors Predıct Survival ?
Authors: Şahin Mustafa , Arslanca Tufan , Aslan Ferhat , Uçar Yeşim Özkaya , Güner Gülşah Tiryaki , Selçuk İlker , Yalçın Hakan Raşit 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Background: This retrospective study aims to evaluate the clinical course and long-term outcomes of patients diagnosed with adult granulosa cell tumors (AGCT).
Methods: The study analyzed a cohort of AGCT patients with a median follow-up of 87 months. Data regarding disease-free survival (DFS), overall survival (OS), recurrence rates, and prognostic factors were collected and analyzed. Surgical interventions, including lymphadenectomy and cytoreductive surgery, were assessed for their impact on outcomes.
Results: The study revealed favorable long-term outcomes, with a 5-year DFS of 85% and a 10-year DFS of 83%. Additionally, a 5-year OS of 100% and a 10-year OS of 96% were observed. Recurrence occurred in 13.4% of cases, with advanced stage and positive peritoneal cytology identified as independent poor prognostic factors for DFS. Lymph node involvement was rare, and routine lymphadenectomy did not improve outcomes. Conservative surgery showed comparable DFS rates to definitive surgery in early-stage disease. However, cytoreductive surgery was crucial for advanced and recurrent tumors, with complete tumor resection enhancing survival outcomes.
Conclusion: The study underscores the importance of vigilant follow-up and individualized treatment strategies for AGCT patients. Despite the retrospective nature of the analysis, the substantial patient cohort and meticulous surgical interventions contribute valuable insights into AGCT management. Prospective multicenter studies are warranted to further elucidate prognostic factors and optimize treatment approaches for this rare malignancy.