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SOBV-FEF: secure lightweight data offloading base in blockchain technology for internet of vehicles enabled handover UAVs within a Fog-Edge federation
Sex differences in alcohol and tobacco use in Ugandan adults: A log-linear analysis of interaction patterns
Alcohol and tobacco use remain major contributors to non-communicable disease burden worldwide. Understanding how these behaviors intersect across sexes is crucial for effective prevention strategies. This study investigated the interrelationships between sex, alcohol use, and tobacco use among Ugandan adults using log-linear modeling. Data were drawn from the 2014 Uganda WHO STEPwise Approach to Non-Communicable Disease Risk Factor Surveillance (STEPS) survey, a nationally representative cross-sectional study including 3,987 adults aged 18–69 years. “Current use” was defined as self-reported consumption of alcohol or tobacco within the past 30 days. Frequencies and proportions were stratified by sex, and a series of hierarchical log-linear models were fitted to assess independence and interaction effects. Model fit was evaluated using the Likelihood-Ratio Chi-square (G 2 ) and Dissimilarity Index (D) statistics. Alcohol use was more prevalent among females (60.0%, 95% CI: 56.8–63.1%) than males (38.9%, 95% CI: 36.2–41.7%), while tobacco use was slightly higher among males (9.05%, 95% CI: 7.4–10.9%) than females (7.95%, 95% CI: 6.4–9.8%). Combined alcohol and tobacco use was relatively uncommon but marginally higher in females (4.89%, 95% CI: 3.7–6.4%) than males (3.20%, 95% CI: 2.3–4.5%). The Homogeneous Association model provided the best fit (G 2 = 0.93, p = 0.334, D = 0.5201), indicating that two-way interactions adequately captured the observed data. The Alcohol × Tobacco interaction was non-significant (p = 0.50), suggesting that alcohol and tobacco behaviors occurred independently once sex differences were accounted for—implying distinct behavioral or social drivers for each substance. This analysis revealed sex-specific patterns in substance use, with higher alcohol consumption among women and greater tobacco use among men. The absence of a significant alcohol–tobacco interaction suggests these behaviors operate within different social or environmental contexts rather than as co-occurring habits. These findings underscore the importance of sex-sensitive and behavior-specific prevention strategies and highlight the utility of log-linear modeling for exploring complex behavioral associations in public health data.
Artificial intelligence-assisted prediction of Demodex mite density in facial erythema
Prevalence and determinants of mother and newborn skin-to-skin contact in Ghana
Background Despite the well-established role of skin-to-skin contact in reducing neonatal mortality, its implementation varies significantly across geographical regions, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. Therefore, we estimated the prevalence of mother and newborn skin-to-skin contact at birth and investigated the factors associated with its practice in Ghana. Methods We used data from the 2022 Ghana Demographic and Health Survey. The analysis included 3833 mother-child pairs. Data was analysed using Stata 17.0, with percentages and confidence intervals (CI) used to present the prevalence of mother and newborn skin-to-skin contact. We employed multilevel binary logistic regression models to examine factors associated with the practice of mother and newborn skin-to-skin contact. Results Overall, 67.2% [64.9 - 69.4] of mothers practised skin-to-skin contact. Delivery by caesarean section was associated with a decreased likelihood of mother and newborn skin-to-skin contact (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 0.04; 95% CI: 0.02, 0.06). Higher birth order (fifth or more) (aOR = 2.34, 95%CI: 1.13, 4.84) was significantly associated with increased odds of skin-to-skin contact. Women who had eight or more antenatal care visits were more likely to engage in skin-to-skin contact (aOR = 1.82; 95% CI: 1.04–3.21) than those with fewer than four visits. Women who delivered in a healthcare facility were more likely to practise skin-to-skin contact (aOR = 30.67; 95% CI: 18.93, 49.70) than those who delivered at home. Compared to women in the Western region, those in the Eastern (aOR = 2.85, 95%CI: 1.21, 6.73), Western North (aOR = 3.87, 95%CI: 1.60, 9.37), Ahafo (aOR = 3.09, 95%CI: 1.19, 8.02), North East (aOR = 4.44, 95%CI: 1.88, 10.50), Upper East (aOR = 3.67, 95%CI: 1.45, 9.31), and Upper West regions (aOR = 6.13, 95%CI: 2.33, 16.16) were more likely to practise skin-to-skin contact. Conclusion Our study has shown moderate mother and newborn skin-to-skin contact practise in Ghana, with significant regional variations. Going forward, any initiatives by the Ghana Health Service, the Ministry of Health, or other organisations focused on maternal and neonatal health must consider the geographical context of their efforts and programme implementation. Enhancing skin-to-skin contact requires increased advocacy and health education during antenatal care sessions, alongside higher attendance at such visits. Additionally, advocating for hospital births and reducing the number of home births is likely to boost skin-to-skin contact practices in Ghana.
The risk factors of osteoporotic vertebral compression fracture accompanied with thoracolumbar fascial injury: a single-center retrospective study
GR-AttNet: Robotic grasping with lightweight spatial attention mechanism
Robotic grasping is crucial in manufacturing, logistics, and service robotics, but existing methods struggle with object occlusion and complex arrangements in cluttered scenes. We propose the Generative Residual Attention Network (GR-AttNet), based on the Generative Residual Convolutional Neural Network (GR-CNN). The spatial attention mechanism enhances its adaptability to clutter, and architectural optimization maintains high accuracy while reducing parameters and boosting efficiency. Experiments show GR-AttNet achieves 98.1% accuracy on the Cornell Grasping Dataset, 94.9% on the Jacquard Dataset, with processing speeds of 148 ms and 163 ms respectively, outperforming several state-of-the-art methods. With only 2.8 million parameters, it surpasses various existing models. Simulations further validate over 50% success rates across different scenario complexities. However, challenges remain in handling small object missed detection and severe occlusion cases. GR-AttNet offers a novel, highly practical solution for robotic grasping tasks.
Cross-modal dual-domain bi-direction feature interaction network for medical imaging semantic segmentation
Motion analysis and structural parameter optimization for nested multi-link transplanting mechanism of variable plant spacing transplanting machine
The nested multi-link transplanting mechanism features a compact structure suitable for transplanting machines and enables zero-speed transplanting, which is crucial for high-quality seedling establishment. To address the challenge of existing transplanting mechanisms being unable to ensure the transplanting effect when the plant spacing changes, this study investigated the influence of key structural parameters of nested multi-link mechanisms on the motion characteristics and planting performance of transplanting devices. First, we derived the kinematic model of the nested multi-link transplanting mechanism and developed a MATLAB/GUI interface to simulate end-effector trajectories. We then quantified how individual parameters affect both the trajectory and the tip velocity of the planting end-effector. Third, we formulated a multi-objective optimization problem to maintain consistent planting depth, seedling uprightness, and adequate trajectory height across three spacing settings (350, 400 and 450 mm) and solved it with a multi-objective genetic algorithm (MOGA) to obtain Pareto-optimal structural parameters. Finally, to validate the proposed model, we compared the simulated end-effector trajectories with high-speed video data collected from a physical prototype. Simulations reveal that adjusting only the vertical position of the power-transmission pivot (point B) is sufficient to maintain transplant quality across all target spacings. Field tests at 400 mm spacing yielded a 98% qualified-planting rate with an improvement of 3.56 percentage points higher than the pre-optimization baseline. Additionally, the lodging planting rate was 1.11%, the missing planting rate was 0.22%, the coefficient of variation for plant spacing was 3.01%, and the planting depth qualification rate was 95.11%, all meeting transplanting standard requirements. These findings demonstrate that the proposed MOGA-based parameter calibration consistently achieves high transplant quality under variable spacing conditions, thereby providing a practical design framework for precision vegetable transplanters., and thus provides valuable insights for improving nested multi-link transplanting mechanisms and advancing mechanized vegetable cultivation.
Integration of ROSE cytology and serum tumor markers for rapid subtyping of lung cancer
Evaluation of umbilical cord blood serum eye drops for severe dry eye in two distinct populations—Sjögren’s syndrome and mustard gas–induced ocular injury: Protocol for a pilot randomized clinical trial
Background Human umbilical cord blood (HUCB) serum eye drops contain growth factors, neurotrophic agents, and antimicrobial compounds that may promote ocular surface healing and regeneration. Sjögren’s syndrome is a chronic autoimmune condition characterized by reduced tear production and ocular surface damage, often resulting in severe dry eye symptoms. Mustard gas chemical veterans also suffer from similar debilitating ocular complications due to chronic inflammation and meibomian gland dysfunction. While conventional treatments offer symptomatic relief, they lack essential components of natural tears. Materials and methods This pilot randomized controlled trial will evaluate the efficacy of HUCB eye drops in three patient groups: (A) Sjögren’s patients treated with HUCB drops, (B) Sjögren’s patients receiving conventional treatment, and (C) mustard gas veterans receiving conventional treatment in the right eye and HUCB drops in the left eye. Patients will be assessed using subjective and objective tools, including the Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI), visual acuity, tear film breakup time (TBUT), SM tube test, and fluorescein staining based on SICCA criteria. Group allocation will follow a blocked randomization sequence for groups A and B; group C will follow a within-subject paired-eye design. Follow-up will occur at 30 and 60 days. Discussion This study aims to assess the regenerative potential of HUCB serum in patients with autoimmune and chemically induced dry eye. Its results may support broader clinical use of HUCB drops in treating severe ocular surface disorders, including conditions like Stevens-Johnson syndrome and industrial chemical exposures. Trial registration This trial was registered at the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (Registration number: IRCT20230925059512N1 , Registration date: 2024-08-11 ).
Effective energy harvesting of Yak by regulating the glucose and lipid metabolism in liver to adapt to the plateau environment
Association between average triglyceride glucose-body mass index and risk of hypertension in middle-aged and elderly Chinese: A study based on Chinese CHARLS cohort data
Objective This study aimed to investigate the relationship between cumulative average triglyceride glucose-body mass index (TyG-BMI) and the risk of developing hypertension among middle-aged and elderly population. Methods Data were sourced from the 2012 and 2015 China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study. The population was stratified into four exposure levels based on the quartiles of average TyG-BMI. Logistic regression analyses were employed to assess the associations between varying levels of average TyG-BMI and the risk of hypertension. Additionally, restricted cubic spline regression models were utilized to delineate the dose-response relationship between average TyG-BMI and hypertension. The contributions of fasting plasma glucose, triglyceride, and body mass index were quantified using weighted quantile sum regression to comprehensively elucidate the role of each component of TyG-BMI. Results A total of 2,841 participants aged 45 years and older were included in this study, of whom 1,302 (45.83%) were male, with a mean age of 57.63 ± 8.39 years at baseline. Throughout the follow-up period, 704 (24.78%) participants developed new onset hypertension. After adjusting for confounding variables, higher average TyG-BMI levels (from two measurements) were associated with an increased risk of developing hypertension ( Q 2: OR = 1.37, 95% CI = 1.04–1.80; Q 3: OR = 1.93, 95% CI = 1.46–2.56; Q 4: OR = 2.71, 95% CI = 2.01–3.66). The results from the restricted cubic spline regression indicated a linear association between average TyG-BMI and the risk of developing hypertension ( P for association < 0.001, P for nonlinear = 0.078). Weighted quantile sum regression revealed that BMI was a significant component of TyG-BMI, with weights of 0.666 and 0.769 in 2012 and 2015, respectively. Conclusion Average TyG-BMI emerged as an independent risk factor for new onset hypertension, exhibiting a linear correlation between the two variables. Therefore, long-term monitoring of changes in TyG-BMI should have been a critical component of hypertension prevention strategies.
The astrocytic ensemble acts as a multiday trace to stabilize memory
Abstract Recalled memories become transiently labile and require stabilization 1–3 . The mechanism for stabilizing memories of survival-critical experiences, which are often emotionally salient and repeated, remains unclear 4 . Here we identify an astrocytic ensemble that is transcriptionally primed by emotional experience and functionally triggered by repeated experience to stabilize labile memory. Using a novel brain-wide Fos tagging and imaging method, we found that astrocytic Fos ensembles were preferentially recruited in regions with neuronal engrams 5 and were more widespread during fear recall than during conditioning. We established the induction mechanism of the astrocytic ensemble, which involves two steps: (1) an initial fear experience that induces day-long, slow astrocytic state changes with noradrenaline receptor upregulation; and (2) enhanced noradrenaline responses during recall, a repeated experience, enabling astrocytes to integrate coincident signals from local engrams and long-range noradrenergic projections, which induce secondary astrocytic state changes, including the upregulation of Fos and the neuromodulatory molecule IGFBP2. Pharmacological and genetic perturbation of the astrocytic ensemble signalling modulate engrams, and memory stability and precision. The astrocytic ensemble thus acts as a multiday trace in a subset of astrocytes after experience-dependent neural activity, which are eligible to capture future repeated experiences for stabilizing memories.
Experimental research on mechanical and microstructural characteristics of hybrid fiber reinforced concrete (HFRC)
Exosomes from bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells protect melanocytes under vitiligo-related conditions through induction of NRF2/HO1 expression
Background Vitiligo, a chronic autoimmune disease linked to excess oxidative stress, can be temporarily improved. Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs)-derived exosomes (BMSCs-Exos) have recently emerged as a promising novel therapeutic means for vitiligo. Methods Exosomes were isolated and characterized from BMSCs-conditioned medium. PIG3V cells and those transfected with NRF2 siRNA or negative control were cultured under normal conditions or exposure to hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) to induce oxidative stress, with addition of BMSCs-conditioned medium, conditioned medium from BMSCs pretreated with GW4869 (referred to as BMSCs-GW4869), or BMSCs-Exos. Cell viability, apoptosis, and oxidative stress parameters, including cellular glutathione (GSH)/oxidized glutathione (GSSG) ratio, superoxide dismutase (SOD), reactive oxygen species (ROS), and malondialdehyde (MDA), were assessed. The expression of Ki67, NRF2, HO1, BAC, and Bcl-2 was measured. Results BMSC-Exos significantly enhanced cell viability and reduced apoptosis and oxidative stress in H₂O₂-treated PIG3V cells. Simultaneously, BMSCs-Exos reversed H₂O₂-induced downregulation of Ki67, NRF2, HO1, and Bcl-2, and upregulation of BAX in PIG3V cells. Silencing NRF2 by siRNA in PIG3V cells prior to H 2 O 2 treatment abolished the protective effect of BMSCs-Exos and decreased the HO1 expression. Conclusions BMSCs-Exos protect melanocytes from vitiliog-related oxidative stress by mitigating oxidative damage through induction of NRF2/HO1 expression.
Comprehensive chemical profiling and bioactivity assessment of Porodaedalea pini and Phellinus tremulae
Comparative effectiveness of adjuvant treatment for hepatocellular carcinoma with high risk of recurrence: A systematic review and network meta-analysis
Objective To identify the most effective postoperative intervention regimen for persons with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) at high risk of recurrence. Methods A network meta-analysis was conducted by collecting eligible studies from Medline, Embase, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Web of Science databases. Pairwise and network meta-analyses were applied to pooled data on overall survival (OS) and recurrence-free survival (RFS). Results 35 studies involving 6,372 patients were analyzed. Pairwise meta-analysis showed higher OS (HR = 0.64, 95% CI: 0.56–0.72; P < 0.001; I 2 = 70.9%, random effects model) and RFS (HR = 0.62, 95%CI 0.56–0.70; P < 0.001; I 2 = 60.2%, random effects model) in the adjuvant intervention group compared to surgery alone. ICIs&TKIs (SUCRA = 87.3%) was significantly more effective for OS, and TKIs&TACE (SUCRA = 84.1%) was significantly more effective for RFS. Conclusions Reasonable postoperative intervention regimens can reduce recurrence risk and improve prognosis. ICIs&TKIs and TKIs&TACE are likely the two most effective adjuvant intervention regimens for individuals with HCC who are at high risk of recurrence.
A comprehensive analysis of transfusion trends and patient outcomes in blood utilization practices at Jimma university medical center
Implementation and staff perceptions of a quality assurance system in a Finnish private hospital during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A qualitative study
Background Implementing quality assurance systems in healthcare settings is a growing trend globally. However, the impact of such systems on staff well-being and patient safety, particularly during major disruptions such as the COVID-19 pandemic, remains insufficiently explored. This study investigates how the implementation of the Joint Commission International (JCI) accreditation system affected a Finnish private hospital during a period of organisational change and crisis. Methods This qualitative study was conducted through seven focus group interviews in two rounds (2020 and 2022) with a total of 27 healthcare professionals. The participants represented various professional groups in the hospital. Data were analysed using conventional qualitative content analysis to identify themes related to staff experiences, perceived benefits, and challenges associated with the quality assurance system. Results The implementation of the quality assurance system was initially viewed positively, especially for its potential to unify guidelines, support staff orientation, and improve patient safety. However, the process was perceived as time-consuming and misaligned with local practices. The COVID-19 pandemic and changes in hospital ownership significantly slowed implementation. Despite this, the system was considered beneficial for institutional credibility, marketing, and internal clarity of roles and responsibilities. Conclusions While comprehensive quality assurance systems such as JCI can enhance process transparency and patient outcomes, their successful integration requires contextual adaptation, dedicated resources, and sustained leadership. Staff well-being and participation should be prioritized throughout the process to ensure long-term benefits.