Near East University

This study aims to examine the SIA ICR model with chronic infection therapy and data analysis worldwide and its actual implications. The boundedness and uniqueness solution of such an HBV model are confirmed, and Banach space is used to look for bounded discoveries. The developed system’s uniqueness is investigated to verify if it has a unique solution. A recently developed method for determining the stable location of the SIA ICR system is analyzed quantitatively and qualitatively to confirm its actual state. Furthermore, to comprehend the long-term impacts, the flip bifurcation of the constructed system has been confirmed using chaos

Peacebuilding involves cultural transformations communicated through discourses, and these transformations mostly occur through hybridisation. Thus, for peace to permeate the everyday, communication is vital. Unless communication entails a horizontal dialogue based on empathy and mutual recognition, it would result in an anti-dialogue causing hegemonic power dynamics to sustain the position of the dominant in subjugating the other. In this respect, reconceptualisation of self-other relations is needed towards establishing more equitable relations. From a poststructuralist perspective, the recognition of the role of discourses and the impact of cultural significations must be critically analysed towards examining the existing power relations which shape the everyday and hence stand in the way of the horizontal, mutual and empathetic relations. Thus, the failure of implanting peacebuilding projects into conflict zones involves a communication problem. Coming from these standpoints, we argue that integrating theories from within communication research and cultural studies is crucially needed for better peacebuilding practices.

The aim of this paper is to compute topological indices such as general randic index, general sum connectivity index, atom bond connectivity index, geometric arithmetic index, forgotten index, first zagreb index, second zagreb index, first multiple zagreb index, second multiple zagreb index and hyper zagreb index of different families of graphs.

Traditional methods for proportioning of high-performance concrete (HPC) have certain shortcomings, such as high costs, usage constraints, and nonlinear relationships. Implementing a strategy to optimize the mixtures of HPC can minimize design expenses, time spent, and material wastage in the construction sector. Due to HPC's exceptional qualities, such as high strength (HS), fluidity and resilience, it has been broadly used in construction projects. In this study, we employed Generalized Regression Neural Network (GRNN), Nonlinear AutoRegressive with exogenous inputs (NARX neural network), and Random Forest (RF) models to estimate the Compressive Strength (CS) of HPC in the first scenario. In contrast, the second scenario involved the development of an ensemble model using the Radial Basis Function Neural Network (RBFNN) to detect inferior performance of standalone model combinations. The output variable was the 28 Days CS in MPa, while the input variables included slump (S), water-binder ratio (W/B) %, water content (W) kg/m ³ , fine aggregate ratio (S/a) %, silica fume (SF)%, and superplasticizer (SP) kg/m ³ . An RF model was developed by using R Studio; GRNN and NARX-NN models were developed by using the MATLAB 2019a toolkit; and the pre- and post-processing of data was carried out by using E-Views 12.0. The results indicate that in the first scenario, the Combination M1 of the RF model outperformed other models, with greater prediction accuracy, yielding a PCC of 0.854 and MAPE of 4.349 during the calibration phase. In the second scenario, the ensemble of RF models surpassed all other models, achieving a PCC of 0.961 and MAPE of 0.952 during the calibration phase. Overall, the proposed models demonstrate significant value in predicting the CS of HPC.

Purpose of Review This review summarizes the sources, metabolism and roles of selenium within the human body. Past and recent evidence implicating selenium deficiency as a feature in various cases of cancers is reviewed. Recent Findings Trace elements (micronutrients) are nutrients required in minute concentrations in human physiology. Their significance in maintaining homeostatic physiologic states cannot be overlooked. Selenium is an essential micronutrient that is primarily obtained from diet. After being taken up in the duodenum, the micronutrient is disseminated to various target organs where it executes vital roles such as aiding cell apoptosis, promoting anti-oxidation and boosting immunity and cognitive function. The possible link between selenium deficiency and a wide range of diseases especially cancer, has been recognized. Summary In recent years, numerous reviews and meta-analyses of research examining the correlation between low levels of Selenium (toenail, serum, and urine) and specific cancer incidences have been published. Finally, suggestions on subsequent directions to further elucidate the function of selenium deficiency in cancer occurrence and prognosis were stated.

Basal melting of ice shelves has become one of the main causes of mass loss from the Greenland ice sheet. However, most studies have focused on individual ice shelves, making it difficult to gain a more comprehensive understanding of basal melting across Greenland ice shelves. To address this issue, we utilized timestamped ArcticDEM strip data coregistered with ICESat‐2 data to estimate the basal melt rates of the ice shelves in North Greenland at a resolution of 150 m from 2013 to 2022, employing a mass conservation approach within the Lagrangian framework. Additionally, to investigate the influence of temperature on basal melt rates, a basic analysis correlating the basal melt rates with temperatures was conducted. Overall, the mass loss caused by basal melting of the six ice shelves has amounted to 27.86 ± 35.63 Gt yr⁻¹, accounting for approximately 90% of the non‐calving mass loss, equivalent to a sea level rise of 0.08 ± 0.10 mm yr⁻¹, far exceeding surface mass loss and glacier calving. The two larger ice shelves, Petermann and 79° North (79N), have contributed to 85% of the basal melt mass loss. Regarding the spatiotemporal distribution, the basal melt rates have gradually decreased from near the grounding line to the ice shelf front. Apart from the Ryder ice shelves, the basal melting of the other ice shelves is in a state of accelerated ablation. Moreover, compared to the skin temperature of the ice shelf, the sea water potential temperature has a greater impact on the basal melt rate.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) frequently results in hospital readmission and contributes to increased morbidity and mortality. This multicenter prospective study aimed to identify factors that increase the risk of readmission within 30 to 90 days of severe COPD exacerbation. A total of 415 patients admitted to the emergency department (ED) or general pulmonology ward after discharge due to severe exacerbations from 13 tertiary centers in Turkey were included. Of the participants, 346 (83.4%) were male and 69 (16.6%) were female, with an average age of 69.0 ± 9.1 years. Readmissions within 30 and 90 days after the initial hospitalization occurred in 176 (42.4%) and 191 (46%) patients, respectively. Prospective data collection focused on exacerbation severity, disease severity, and the utility of initial admissions. Factors for 30 to 90 day readmission were analyzed using univariate and multivariate regression models. A 30-day readmission correlated significantly with Hospital Anxiety Depression Scale scores above 16 [odds ratio [OR] 95% confidence intervals [CI]: 1.9 (1.1–3.6); P = .042], severe exacerbation history in the previous year [OR 95% CI: 1.7 (1.1–2.9); P = .038], hospital-acquired pneumonia [OR 95% CI: 1.9 (1–4.1); P = .049)], and frequent antibiotic use in the previous year [OR 95% CI: 1.8 (1.2–2.7); P = .007]. Risk factors for 90-day readmissions included: Grades 3 to 4 tricuspid regurgitation [OR 95% CI: 2.2 (1.1–4.4); P = .024], 2 or more moderate COPD exacerbations [OR 95% CI: 1.9 (1.2–3.1); P = .010], severe exacerbation history in the previous year [OR 95% CI: 2.5 (1.5–4.2); P = .001], immunosuppression [OR 95% CI: 2.7 (1.2–5.7); P = .013], frequent antibiotic use the previous year [OR 95% CI: 1.5 (1–2.4); P = .048], hospitalization via the ED [OR 95% CI: 1.6 (1.1–2.6); P = .028]. To mitigate complications and readmissions, patients with a history of frequent severe COPD exacerbations, high anxiety and depression scores, frequent antibiotic requirements, immunosuppression, tricuspid regurgitation, hospital-acquired pneumonia, and those admitted to the ED should be prioritized for remote monitoring after initial discharge.

Cassava is acknowledged by many as a major food source, and it can be processed into various by-products such as, garri, tapioca, fufu, flour, starch, etc. Enormous clinical and experimental research has now made cassava to be recognised not only for its importance in the food industry but also in non-food industries. Its importance in the production of drugs, biofuels and etcetera cannot be over emphasised. Nevertheless, a major hitch to the maximum utilization of this versatile plant is the presence of cyanogenic compounds that are distributed all over the plant. The emergence of hybrid varieties and other conventional methods have however helped to reduce this limitation of the plant, thus increasing its usability. This review seeks to establish an insight into the entirety of the plant, its distribution, physicochemical properties, phytochemicals, nutritional value, cyanide content and methods by which the risk of cyanide poisoning from cassava consumption can be attenuated.

Correction for ‘Enhanced desalination with polyamide thin-film membranes using ensemble ML chemometric methods and SHAP analysis’ by Jamilu Usman et al., RSC Adv., 2024, 14, 31259–31273, https://doi.org/10.1039/D4RA06078D.

Dynare is a popular software for solving dynamic stochastic general equilibrium (DSGE) and overlapping generations (OLG) models. It is used along with Octave or Matlab. However, writing documents using Dynare outputs can be error-prone and time-consuming, as it requires copying and pasting the outputs into the document. To address this problem and ensure reproducibility, we create the DynareR R package. The package seamlessly integrates Dynare and R, extending R’s capabilities to estimate DSGE and OLG models using the Dynare engine. The package can be used with R, R Markdown and Quarto.

Background Exacerbation is an independent risk factor for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)-related morbidity and mortality. Despite optimal care, there may be risk factors that lead to difficulties in managing exacerbations that may be associated with prolongation of length of hospital stay (LOS). Methods This is a multicenter prospective observational study of COPD patients hospitalized with exacerbations. Prolonged LOS was calculated according to the 50th percentile and defined as ≥ 9 days. Potentially predicting factors of LOS were stratified into 4 pillars as patient-related, disease and exacerbation-related, treatment-related and, hospital utility-related. These categories were systematically documented throughout the duration of the hospitalization. Results A total of 434 patients, 361 males and 73 females, with a mean age of 69.2 ± 9.3 years, were included in the study. Variables of each pillar were tested with univariate analysis to identify potential risk factors for prolonged LOS. Subsequently significant factors excluding factors associated with hospital utility were tested with multivariate logistic regression analysis for detecting potential associated factors for difficult-to-manage COPD exacerbation. Biomass exposure, past history of non-invasive mechanical ventilation (NIMV), low bicarbonate levels at admission, antibiotic switching, need for theophylline, increasing oxygen requirement, need for in-hospital non-invasive mechanical ventilation, nutritional support and physiotherapy were found as defining factors. Conclusions The DiMECO study can help to identify COPD exacerbators who are at risk for prolonged hospitalizations that may associate with difficult-to-manage COPD exacerbations. Difficult to manage COPD exacerbation may serve as a provocative framework, underscoring the necessity for a better understanding of the multifaceted approaches to the management of COPD exacerbations. This conceptualization warrants further investigation across diverse clinical settings to validate its applicability and efficacy.

This paper recovers the gap solitons in fiber Bragg gratings for the concatenation model that comes with Kerr-law of self-phase modulation by the usage of enhanced direct algebraic approach. A full spectrum of optical solitons are thus recovered. The existence criteria of such solitons, in the form of parameters constraints, that naturally emerged during the course of derivation, are presented. A few numerical simulations supplement the mathematical analysis.

Poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) has been a fascinating subject for polymer science research. Its characteristics are heightened by its inherent structural faults resulting from direct manufacturing (by free-radical polymerization), which also cause its thermal instability. Some of the fundamental limiting features of PVC have been suggested to be alleviated by improved chemistry during PVC synthesis, in addition to the use of both inorganic and organic thermal stabilizers. The characteristics, characterization, modification, recycling, and various applications of PVC are all examined in this paper along with the past and most recent research discoveries. It has been suggested that some of the fundamental limiting properties of PVC can be lessened by applying both inorganic and organic thermal stabilizers in conjunction with improved chemistry during PVC manufacture. Numerous ongoing studies have expanded this chemistry, primarily through the chemical changes of this polymeric substance. The chemical modification of PVC employing various materials as an active modifying agent is described in this work. The latter comprised grafting polymerizations, nucleophilic radicals, substitutions, PVC modifications, and removal or dehydrochlorination. This perspective addresses the main PVC reactivity trends and provides an overview of PVC functionalization while examining the environmental implications of PVC via the prism of chemical recycling. Through extensive ongoing research, this chemistry has been expanded, primarily through the chemical changes of this polymeric substance. To improve its photo-stability properties, expand the applications of poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC), and investigate PVC-related phenomena, numerous chemical modifications have been introduced to PVC. Graphical abstract

Green growth means decoupling economic growth and carbon footprints, and its role cannot be overlooked in attaining sustainable development objectives. The exchange rate is a key macroeconomic variable that has impacted almost every sector of the economy; thus, understanding the nexus between exchange rate volatility and green growth is important. To date, no empirical study has estimated the asymmetric impact of exchange rate volatility on green growth in China. This analysis fills the gap by estimating how green growth responds to asymmetric exchange rate volatility. To that end, the analysis employs linear and nonlinear autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) estimators. The linear model findings reveal that exchange rate volatility hurt green growth in the long-run. On the other hand, the nonlinear model shows that a rise in exchange rate volatility hinders green growth in the short and long run, while a lower level of volatility does not significantly impact green growth. In addition, green investment, human capital, environmental technology, and financial development promote long-run green growth in both linear and nonlinear models. The policymakers in China should focus on the development of a robust forex market that can control the volatility of the renminbi against other currencies.

The rise of multidrug‐resistant bacteria, such as Enterococcus faecium and Staphylococcus aureus, has compromised the efficacy of glycopeptide antibiotics like vancomycin. Consequently, novel strategies are urgently needed to combat vancomycin‐resistant strains. In this study, novel vancomycin derivatives with disulfide groups targeting the D‐alanyl‐D‐alanine for wild‐type, D‐alanyl‐D‐lactate, and D‐alanyl‐D‐serine regions for resistant strains were designed. Using ChemDraw Pro 12.0, the derivatives were created, and their binding affinities were assessed through molecular docking with AutoDock Vina. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations were conducted with GROMACS 5.1.4, followed by MM/PBSA and quantum mechanical calculations. Pharmacokinetic properties were evaluated via ADMETlab 3.0. The derivatives showed enhanced binding energies across all target regions, irrespective of aromatic moieties or aliphatic groups. All three derivatives demonstrated higher logP values, improved gastrointestinal absorption, increased plasma protein binding percentages, better tissue distribution, and comparable half‐lives to vancomycin, along with favorable safety profiles. Among the vancomycin derivatives designed, derivative I emerged as a particularly promising candidate against vancomycin‐resistant strains, demonstrating superior binding energies and improved pharmacokinetic properties, thereby making it a strong candidate for further development.

Objectives The auditory brainstem response (ABR) is an evoked potential used to estimate the hearing thresholds and identify potential auditory pathologies. Although a click stimulus is generally used as an auditory stimulus in diagnostics, recent reports show that the Level-Specific CE-Chirp (LS CE-Chirp) stimulus can also be used for clinical diagnosis. In this study, we compared the auditory brainstem test outcomes of the LS CE-Chirp stimulus and the click stimulus in individuals with high-frequency hearing loss (HFHL). Design Patients with HFHL (n = 30) and individuals with normal hearing (n = 30) were included in the study. Audiometric pure-tone thresholds were determined for all subjects at 250 to 8000 Hz. For individuals with normal hearing, the pure-tone thresholds were required to be ≤20 dB HL for all frequencies. HFHL cases were selected from people with at least 5 years of hunting experience. All subjects were tested with ABR at 80 and 60 dB nHL. The ABR test was performed using click and LS CE-Chirp stimuli at a rate of 11.1/sec. ABR wave I, III, and V peak latencies and I to V interpeak latency values were compared within and among the groups. Results Longer latency values were obtained with the LS CE-Chirp stimulus at 80 dB nHL intensity and 11.1/sec stimulus frequency than with the click stimulus in the control group. No significant difference was detected between the LS CE-Chirp and click stimuli at the 80 dB nHL intensity level in the HFHL group ( p > 0.005). When the HFHL patients were classified according to the 4000 Hz threshold, the click stimulus was found to be more compatible with the behavioral 4000 Hz threshold. Conclusions The wave latency values obtained with the LS CE-Chirp stimulus in the HFHL group, unlike with the click stimulation, were less affected by the level of hearing loss in the HFHL group. For this difference to have a diagnostic value, further studies would be needed on patients with different pathologies and hearing loss configurations.

Sustainable management of available water resources needs robust and reliable intelligent tools to address emerging water challenges. These days, artificial intelligence (AI) based tools are more efficient and prominent in addressing issues related to water treatment plants. Therefore, in the current study, the extreme learning machine (ELM) was optimized with four different metaheuristic algorithms, namely particle swarm optimization (PSO-ELM), genetic algorithm (GA-ELM), biogeography-based optimization (BBO-ELM), and BBO-PSO-ELM for modelling treated water quality parameters, i.e., pHT, Turbidity (TurbT), total dissolved solids (TDST), and HardnessT of Tamburawa water treatment plant (TWTP) located in Nigeria. The performance of the hybrid ELM models was evaluated using mean absolute error (MAE), root mean square error (RMSE), Nash-Sutcliffe efficiency (NSE), Pearson correlation coefficient (PCC), and Willmott index (WI) as well as graphically. The obtained numerical and visualized results indicate that the BBO-PSO-ELM model performed superior in modeling pHT (MAE = 0.403, RMSE = 0.514, NSE = 0.863, PCC = 0.935, WI = 0.964), TDST (MAE = 11.818 mg/L, RMSE = 16.058 mg/L, NSE = 0.711, PCC = 0.853, WI = 0.923), and HardnessT (MAE = 2.624 mg/L, RMSE = 3.497 mg/L, NSE = 0.818, PCC = 0.909, WI = 0.947), while BBO-ELM demonstrated superior performance in TurbT (MAE = 0.385 mg/L, RMSE = 0.694 mg/L, NSE = 0.996, PCC = 0.999, WI = 0.999) modelling. Generally, the findings suggested that the proposed hybrid ELM model has the potential to predict the water quality parameters of TWTP in Nigeria effectively.