Progress in the Use of Glucocorticoids and Biological Agents in Non-Infectious Uveitis

One of the main immune-mediated diseases that lead to avoidable blindness is non-infectious uveitis. Glucocorticoids are the first-line therapy choice for noninfectious uveitis;however, biologics are also showing promise in the management of this condition. The description of glucocorticoid and biologic usage in non-infectious uveitis is the main topic of this paper.

The Interventional Capacity of Community Health Volunteers for Screening and Linkages of Non-Communicable Diseases in Nyeri County, Kenya

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) account for 63% of mortalities. Approximately 80% of these NCD-related deaths occur in LMICs. A quasi-experimental study utilizing a non-equivalent pre-and post-test was conducted from May 2022 to March 2023 with 370 study participants. Multistage cluster and random sampling were used to select ten community units, and therefore, 150 CHVs were chosen for the control unit, and 150 were used to form the interventional group. Data was collected from the KOBO app. Six (6) homogenous FGDs comprised ten members, and 10 KII were conducted across study sites. Quantitative data was analyzed using SPSS version 28.0, and qualitative data was audio-recorded, transcribed, and analyzed via N-Vivo 12. The study shows that 59.3% of respondents have minimal information, and 92.7% (n = 139) have no clear understanding of NCDs, with a pre-intervention capacity of 48.8%. Independent sample t-test showed a significant difference in capacity from a pre-intervention average of 48.75 (SD ± 5.7)%, which increased to 68.28 (SD ± 7.6)%, p < 0.001. A well-designed community interventional model plays a pivotal role in grassroots healthcare delivery but requires optimization for NCD management.

Roles of Community Pharmacists in Screening and Disseminating of Information about Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs Risks: Implications for Drug Safety Assessment

Background: The increasing use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) both on prescription and over the counter raises a major global health concern because of the risks associated with their use if no proper guidance is given by the health care provider. This study assessed the roles of community pharmacists in screening and disseminating information about the risks associated with NSAID use in Zambia. Methodology: This was a national cross-sectional study in which a structured self-administered questionnaire was administered to 245 registered community pharmacists in Zambia. Stata/BE, version 15.1 (Stata Corporation, College Station, Texas, USA) and multivariate logistic regression model was used to determine factors associated with information dissemination about ADRs of NS-NSAIDs. Results: 231 of the 245 distributed questionnaires were returned giving a response rate of 94.3%. All (100%) participating community pharmacists claimed to have practiced dispensing NSAIDs. However, only 26 (11.0%) and 71 (30.8%) regularly screened for risk factor of selective COX-2 NSAIDS (SC2-NSAIDS) and non-selective NSAIDS (NS-NSAIDs) respectively. Information dissemination on adverse drug reactions (ADRs) of SC2-NSAIDS was regularly provided by only 22 (9.5%) of pharmacists while that of NS-NSAIDs was regularly provided by 49 (21.2%). In the multivariate logistic regression model, being the owner of a pharmacy (AOR: 5.4, CI: 1.84 - 16.4) was significantly associated with information dissemination about ADRs of NS-NSAIDs while an hour increase in the working hours per day (AOR: 0.9, CI: 0.64 - 0.95) was associated with less likelihood of information dissemination. Conclusion: Pharmacists working in community pharmacies in Zambia did not regularly screen and disseminate information about the risks associated with NSAID use. Therefore, pharmacists should be able to screen and monitor patients at risk and be aware of the majority of risk factors while dispensing NSAIDs to minimize the associated complications.

Assessment of Barriers and Challenges to the Screening and Linkages of Non-Communicable Diseases by Community Health Volunteers in Nyeri County, Kenya

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are a significant global health challenge, contributing to 50% of worldwide morbidity and 63% of mortality. The burden is particularly substantial in low—and middle-income countries (LMICs), where 80% of NCD-related deaths occur. A quasi-experimental study addressed this challenge from May 2022 to March 2023. This study utilized a non-equivalent pre-and post-test design, with 300 participants in the quantitative and 70 in the qualitative. The study employed multistage cluster and random sampling to select ten community units, resulting in 150 community health volunteers (CHVs) in the control unit and 150 in the intervention group. Data collection was facilitated through the KOBO app. Qualitative data analysis involved six homogeneous focus group discussions (FGDs) and ten key informant interviews (KIIs), audio-recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using N-Vivo 12. Despite efforts to implement screening programs and improve linkages to care, significant barriers persist. This article reviews these barriers, drawing on current literature and empirical evidence. Key obstacles identified include limited awareness, inadequate healthcare infrastructure, cultural beliefs, financial constraints, fragmented healthcare systems, and challenges linking individuals to appropriate care services. The article explores strategies to overcome these barriers, emphasizing the importance of collaborative approaches involving stakeholders at various levels. Addressing these challenges aims to strengthen NCD screening and linkages to care, ultimately improving health outcomes for populations globally. Several recommendations emerge from the study’s findings and literature review. Raising awareness about NCDs and preventive measures is crucial and can be achieved through targeted health education campaigns and community outreach programs. Addressing healthcare infrastructure deficiencies, such as inadequate facilities and workforce shortages, is essential to ensure access to quality care. Cultural beliefs and practices also play a significant role in shaping health-seeking behavior. Engaging with local communities and incorporating cultural sensitivity into healthcare delivery can help bridge the gap between traditional beliefs and modern healthcare practices. Financial constraints pose a significant barrier to healthcare services, particularly in LMICs. Innovative financing mechanisms, such as health insurance schemes or subsidies, can help alleviate this burden and improve access to care. Furthermore, the fragmented nature of healthcare systems can hinder effective NCD management. Enhancing coordination and integration between primary care providers, specialists, and community health workers is essential to ensure seamless care delivery and patient follow-up. Finally, strengthening linkages between screening programs and care services is critical for the timely diagnosis and management of NCDs. This requires establishing robust referral systems and ensuring continuity of care for patients throughout their healthcare journey. In conclusion, addressing the multifaceted barriers to NCD screening and care linkage is essential for improving health outcomes globally. By implementing targeted interventions and fostering collaboration among stakeholders, progress can be made towards reducing the burden of NCDs and promoting population health.

Progress in the Study of Inflammatory Bowel Disease Patients with Primary Non-Responsiveness

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a group of chronic, nonspecific intestinal inflammatory disorders characterized by localized and systemic inflammation. The use of biologic agents in the treatment of IBD patients is widespread, and the occurrence of primary non-responsiveness during treatment is also significant. This review briefly summarizes the possible reasons for primary non-responsiveness in IBD patients, as well as predictive markers and current strategies to address it, providing a theoretical reference for early identification and management of IBD patients who do not respond to treatment.

Early Treatment Outcome of Humeral Shaft Fracture Non-Union in Adults: Comparative Study of Plating versus Interlocking Nailing

Background: Fractures of humeral shaft in adults are common injuries. Humeral shafts non-union either from late presentation after initial treatment by traditional bone setters or failed non-operative orthodox care is a major problem in this part of the world. This non-union is a major treatment challenge with increased cost of care and morbidity in this part of the world. Humeral shaft non-union can be treated with locked intra-medullary nailing (LIMN) or dynamic compression plating (DCP). Study on comparison of these methods of fixation in this part of the world is scarce in literature search, hence the reason for this study. Objective: The objectives of this study are: (1) to compare early clinical outcome following fixation of humeral shaft fracture nonunion with DCP versus LIMN;(2) to compare the time of radiologic fracture union of DCP with LIMN;(3) to compare complications following fixation of humeral shaft fracture nonunion with DCP versus LIMN. Patients and Methods: This was a randomized control study done for 2 years in which fifty adult patients with humeral shaft non-union were recruited. The patients were grouped into 2 (P = DCP & N = LIMN). Forty five of the patients completed the follow up periods of the study and then analyzed. The P group had ORIF with DCP while the N group had ORIF with LIMN. Both groups had grafting with cancellous bones. Each patient was followed up for a period of 6 months at the time which radiographic union is expected. Any patient without clinical and/or radiographic evidence of union after six months of surgery was diagnosed as having recurrent non-union. The data generated was analyzed using SPSS Version 23. The results were presented in charts and tables. The paired t-test was used while considering p value Result: Forty five patients completed follow up. There was a male preponderance (4:1), right humerus predominated (3:2). Motor vehicular accidents were the commonest cause of the fractures (62%). Most non-union fractures occurred at the level of the middle 3rd of the humeral shaft (60%). Failed TBS treatment was the commonest indication for the osteosynthesis (71%). More patients had plating (53%) compared to 47% who had LIMN. Most patients (93.4%) had union between 3 to 6 months irrespective of fixation type with no significant statistical difference between the union rate of DCP and LIMN (p value 0.06) with similar functional outcome and complication rates irrespective of the type of fixation. Conclusion: This study showed that the success rates in term of fracture union, outcome functional grades and complication rates were not directly dependent on the types of the fixation: plating or locked intra-medullary nailing.

Pang Fuwan Uses Yao Medicine to Observe the Therapeutic Effects on the Physical and Mental Symptoms of Patients with Advanced Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer

Objective: Investigate the efficacy and safety of Yao Medicine in the treatment of advanced non-small-cell lung carcinoma, and explore the best therapeutic measure for clinical benefit. Methods: From July 2020 to July 2022, 84 patients with advanced non-small-cell lung carcinoma were selected and randomly divided into the Observation Group and control group, and the control group was treated with routine Western medicine, with 42 cases in each group. The activity of daily living (ADL) was assessed before and after treatment, meanwhile, the self-rating depression scale (SDS) and self-rating anxiety SAS (SAS) were used to assess the improvement of a bad mood, and quality of life SF-36 was used to assess the quality of life, to judge the efficacy and safety. Results: The effective rate of observation group was 91.67%. The effective rate of the control group was 76.19%. The effective rate of the observation group was significantly higher than that of the control group (P 0.05). There were no significant differences in the scores of SDS, SAS and quality of life between the two groups before treatment (P > 0.05), and after treatment, the scores of SDS, SAS and quality of life in the two groups were compared with those in the control group (P > 0.05), the scores of VAS, SDS and SAS decreased significantly, while ESCV, angle of straight leg elevation, ADL, physiological score, emotional score, social score and health status score increased significantly, the difference was statistically significant (P 0.05). Conclusion: Yao Medicine can improve the psychosomatic symptoms of patients with advanced non-small-cell lung carcinoma better, with better efficacy and higher safety.

Analysis and Review of Downregulated Actin Cytoskeletal Proteins in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer

Actin, a highly conserved protein, plays a dominant role in Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Late diagnosis and the aggressive nature of NSCLC pose a significant threat. Studying the clinic pathological properties of NSCLC proteins is a potential alternative for developing treatment strategies. Towards this, 35 downregulated actin cytoskeletal proteins on NSCLC prognosis and treatment were studied by examining their protein-protein interactions, gene ontology enrichment terms, and signaling pathways. Using PubMed, various proteins in NSCLC were identified. The protein-protein interactions and functional associations of these proteins were examined using the STRING database. The focal adhesion signaling pathway was selected from all available KEGG and Wiki pathways because of its role in regulating gene expression, facilitating cell movement and reproduction, and significantly impacting NSCLC. The protein-protein interaction network of the 35 downregulated actin cytoskeleton proteins revealed that ACTG1, ACTR2, ACTR3, ANXA2, ARPC4, FLNA, TLN1, CALD1, MYL6, MYH9, MYH10, TPM1, TPM3, TPM4, PFN1, IQGAP1, MSN, and ZXY exhibited the highest number of interactions. Whereas HSPB1, CTNNA1, KRT17, KRT7, FLNB, SEPT2, and TUBA1B displayed medium interactions, while UTRN, TUBA1B, and DUSP23 had relatively fewer interactions. It was discovered that focal adhesions are critical in connecting membrane receptors with the actin cytoskeleton. In addition, protein kinases, phosphatases, and adapter proteins were identified as key signaling molecules in this process, greatly influencing cell shape, motility, and gene expression. Our analysis shows that the focal adhesion pathway plays a crucial role in NSCLC and is essential for developing effective treatment strategies and improving patient outcomes.

A Study on Near-Infrared Non-Invasive Blood Glucose Concentration Regression Prediction Based on PSO-MKL-SVR

To improve the accuracy of predicting non-invasive blood glucose concentration in the near-infrared spectrum, we utilized the Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) algorithm to optimize hyperparameters for the Multi-Kernel Learning Support Vector Machine (MKL-SVR). With these optimized hyperparameters, we established a non-invasive blood glucose regression model, referred to as the PSO-MKL-SVR model. Subsequently, we conducted a comparative analysis between the PSO-MKL-SVR model and the PSO-SVR model. In a dataset comprising ten volunteers, the PSO-MKL-SVR model exhibited significant precision improvements, including a 16.03% reduction in Mean Square Error and a 0.29% increase in the Squared Correlation Coefficient. Moreover, there was a 0.14% higher probability of the Clark’s Error Grid Analysis falling within Zone A. Additionally, the PSO-MKL-SVR model demonstrated a faster operational speed compared to the PSO-SVR model.

Influence of Non-Natural Ageing Temperature on the Microstructural Characteristics and Mechanical Properties of Cast Aluminum 6063 Alloy

This research considered the effect of non-natural aging on the microstructural characteristics and mechanical properties of as-cast aluminum 6063 alloys. The samples were developed through a sand casting process and machined into tensile and impact test samples before carrying out solution heat treatment at 550?C (0.83 Tm) on two parts of the samples while retaining one part as the control. The two parts were further divided into sets denoted A and B and were aged at 180?C (0.27 Tm) and 160?C (0.24 Tm), respectively, for 12 hours. The results showed that sample A has the optimal yield strength and ultimate tensile strength of 192 and 206 MPa, respectively. Likewise, the sample gave the highest impact strength value of about 9.63 J/mm2. The observed results were supported by the optical micrograph, which revealed that the sample has evenly dispersed precipitates in its microstructure. This is deemed responsible for the observed increase in strength of the sample.

Non-Darcy Flow in Molding Sands

Darcy’s law is widely used to describe the flow in porous media in which there is a linear relationship between fluid velocity and pressure gradient. However, it has been found that for high numbers of Reynolds this law ceases to be valid. In this work, the Ergun equation is employed to consider the non-linearity of air velocity with the pressure gradient in casting sands. The contribution of non-linearity to the total flow in terms of a variable defined as a non-Darcy flow fraction is numerically quantified. In addition, the influence of the shape factor of the sand grains on the non-linear flow fraction is analyzed. It is found that for values of the Reynolds number less or equal than 1, the contribution of non-linearity for spherical particles is around 1.15%.

Fresnel Equations Derived Using a Non-Local Hidden-Variable Particle Theory

Problem: The Fresnel equations describe the proportions of reflected and transmitted light from a surface, and are conventionally derived from wave theory continuum mechanics. Particle-based derivations of the Fresnel equations appear not to exist. Approach: The objective of this work was to derive the basic optical laws from first principles from a particle basis. The particle model used was the Cordus theory, a type of non-local hidden-variable (NLHV) theory that predicts specific substructures to the photon and other particles. Findings: The theory explains the origin of the orthogonal electrostatic and magnetic fields, and re-derives the refraction and reflection laws including Snell’s law and critical angle, and the Fresnel equations for s and p-polarisation. These formulations are identical to those produced by electromagnetic wave theory. Contribution: The work provides a comprehensive derivation and physical explanation of the basic optical laws, which appears not to have previously been shown from a particle basis. Implications: The primary implications are for suggesting routes for the theoretical advancement of fundamental physics. The Cordus NLHV particle theory explains optical phenomena, yet it also explains other physical phenomena including some otherwise only accessible through quantum mechanics (such as the electron spin g-factor) and general relativity (including the Lorentz and relativistic Doppler). It also provides solutions for phenomena of unknown causation, such as asymmetrical baryogenesis, unification of the interactions, and reasons for nuclide stability/instability. Consequently, the implication is that NLHV theories have the potential to represent a deeper physics that may underpin and unify quantum mechanics, general relativity, and wave theory.

Development of Non-ABO Red Blood Cell Alloantibodies in Patient Undergoing Allogeneic Haematopoietic Stem Cell Transplant

Alloantibodies that are non ABO Alloimmunization to protein antigens happens only after exposure, in contrast to ABO isohaemagglutinins, which are present naturally, even in the absence of prior exposure. It is recognized that while non-ABO RBC antibodies are less common than ABO antibodies, they generate essentially the same issues that lead to unfavorable clinical results. If non-ABO alloantibodies are identified early on, these issues related complications may be avoided This call for an in-depth understanding of the recipient and donor’s ABO-Rh grouping, antibody screening, and the phenotype of certain antigens. Equally important, the temporal association time between transplantation and hemolysis can help identify the underlying mechanism of hemolysis and direct appropriate management. Therefore, for that, it is crucial to identify the etiology of post-HSCT anemia for prevention and therapy, in addition to a thorough grasp of the mechanism of anemia in non-ABO-incompatible HSCT and the temporal link between HSCT and anemia. Finding the cause of post-HSCT anemia is essential for prevention and therapy, in addition to a thorough grasp of the mechanism of anemia in non-ABO-incompatible HSCT and the temporal link between HSCT and anemia. Therefore, for that, it is crucial to identify the etiology of post-HSCT anemia. In this case report review, we would like to highlight the vital role of transfusion medicine services and stem cell clinical teams in paying particular attention to the clinical significance of non-ABO alloantibodies involved to avoid causing overt hemolysis of incompatible donor RBCs or delayed erythropoiesis. Considering the fact that some of the Haematopoietic stem cell transplant centers do not give an attention to the other non-ABO RBC antigens.

Mixed Neuroendocrine-Non-Neuroendocrine Neoplasm (MiNEN) of the Colon: A Case Report

Here we report a rare case of mixed neuroendocrine-non-neuroendocrine neoplasms (MiNENs). A 51-year-old lady with no known family history of malignancies developed this rare type of malignancy without any active gastrointestinal symptoms. However, during a routine health check, physicians noticed a raised Carcinoembryonic Antigen (CEA) level and the patient subsequently was referred to the surgical department for further management. A colonoscopy and CECT abdomen were done and she was electively admitted for a left hemicolectomy operation for a splenic flexure tumour. The histopathological report revealed the tumour is a case of mixed neuroendocrine-non-neuroendocrine neoplasms (MiNENs) [moderately differentiated adenocarcinoma and neuroendocrine tumour grade 3]. TNM (8th edition, 2016): pT3, pN2 (20/21), pMX. Both resection margins were clear from malignant cells. Colorectal MiNENs, constitute a rare group of gastrointestinal tumours composed of both neuroendocrine and non-neuroendocrine components. Given their non-diagnostic macroscopic features, specific histological features and lack of disease awareness which are responsible for the underestimated incidence and conflicting data. In this case, a multidisciplinary team approach is important in managing patients with this malignancy to achieve the best outcome.

TyG指数、RC及NonHDL-C与急性冠脉综合征血管病变严重程度的相关性研究

目的探讨非高密度脂蛋白胆固醇(NonHDL-C)、甘油三酯葡萄糖指数(TyG指数)及残余脂蛋白胆固醇(RC)水平与急性冠脉综合征(ACS)冠状动脉血管病变严重程度的相关性。方法选取我院收治的147例经PCI术治疗的ACS患者作为研究对象。收集患者的基线资料,并使用Gensini评分评估冠状动脉病变的严重程度。依据Gensini评分,将患者分轻度组(4≤Gensini评分≤16,n=52)和中重度组(Gensini评分>16,n=95)。采用多因素Logistic回归分析确定ACS患者血管病变严重程度的独立危险因素。采用Spearman相关分析评估RC、NonHDL-C和TyG指数水平与Gensini评分的相关性,并通过ROC曲线评估RC、TyG指数及NonHDL-C水平对ACS患者血管病变严重程度的预测价值。结果中重度组与轻度组相比,NonHDL-C、RC和TyG指数水平均显著增加(P<0.05)。多因素Logistic回归分析结果显示,RC(OR=7.673,P=0.012)、TyG指数(OR=2.537,P=0.013)和NonHDL-C(OR=2.144,P=0.001)水平是ACS患者冠状动脉病变严重程度的独立危险因素。RC、TyG指数、NonHDL-C水平的AUC为0.653、0.671、0.711。TyG指数与NonHDL-C水平的联合AUC为0.739。Spearman相关分析结果显示:Gensini评分与TyG指数、RC和NonHDL-C水平呈正相关(P<0.05)。结论RC、TyG指数和NonHDL-C的水平升高可能是ACS患者冠状动脉病变严重程度的危险因素,并对日后的血管病变严重程度有一定的预测价值。

Non-HDL-C/HDL-C和NHR与冠状动脉病变严重程度的相关性

目的探讨非高密度脂蛋白胆固醇/高密度脂蛋白胆固醇比值(non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol to high density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio,non-HDL-C/HDL-C)和中性粒细胞计数/高密度脂蛋白胆固醇比值(neutrophil to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio,NHR)与冠状动脉病变严重程度的相关性。方法选取2022年1月至2023年6月因胸闷、胸痛于华北理工大学附属医院心内科住院初次行冠状动脉造影检查的患者284例,根据冠状动脉造影结果分为冠状动脉病变组(n=223)和对照组(n=61)。收集两组临床资料(一般资料和实验室资料),计算non-HDL-C/HDL-C和NHR,比较两组临床资料。根据Gensini评分将冠状动脉病变组分为低、高分值两个亚组,Gensini评分<30分为低分值亚组、Gensini评分≥30分为高分值亚组,比较两亚组实验室资料。采用Spearman相关性分析探讨冠状动脉病变患者Gensini评分与non-HDL-C/HDL-C、NHR的相关性。应用多因素Logistic回归分析探讨冠状动脉病变患者高Gensini评分的影响因素,并绘制受试者工作特征(receiver operating characteristic,ROC)曲线以评价non-HDL-C/HDL-C和NHR对冠状动脉病变患者高Gensini评分的预测价值。结果冠状动脉病变组non-HDL-C/HDL-C和NHR水平高于对照组(均P<0.05);Gensini评分高分值亚组non-HDL-C/HDL-C、NHR水平高于低分值亚组(均P<0.05)。相关性分析显示,non-HDL-C/HDL-C、NHR与Gensini评分均呈正相关(均P<0.05)。多因素Logistic回归分析显示,NHR升高是冠状动脉病变患者高Gensini评分的独立危险因素(OR=1.650,95%CI:1.262-2.158,P<0.05)。绘制ROC曲线,non-HDL-C/HDL-C和NHR预测冠状动脉病变严重程度的ROC曲线下面积分别为0.657(95%CI:0.582-0.732,P<0.01)和0.736(95%CI:0.666-0.807,P<0.01)。结论non-HDL-C/HDL-C、NHR与冠状动脉病变严重程度呈正相关,且NHR是冠状动脉病变患者高Gensini评分的独立预测因子。

血清LDL-C/HDL-C、non-HDL-C、RLP-C及sLOX-1水平与老年急性脑梗死的相关性研究

目的分析血清低密度脂蛋白胆固醇(LDL-C)/高密度脂蛋白胆固醇(HDL-C)、非高密度脂蛋白胆固醇(non-HDL-C)、残粒脂蛋白胆固醇(RLP-C)及可溶性凝集素样氧化型低密度脂蛋白受体-1(sLOX-1)水平与老年急性脑梗死(ACI)的相关性。方法选取2022年1月—2023年8月收治的230例老年ACI作为研究组,另选择同期、同年龄段115例健康体检者作为对照组。比较2组LDL-C/HDL-C、non-HDL-C、RLP-C及sLOX-1水平,比较研究组不同斑块稳定性、神经功能缺损程度[采用美国国立卫生研究院卒中量表(NIHSS)评分评估]、颈动脉内中膜厚度(IMT)患者上述指标水平,偏回归分析上述指标与老年ACI的关系,并分析上述指标与斑块稳定性、IMT、NIHSS评分的相关性。结果研究组LDL-C/HDL-C、non-HDL-C、RLP-C、sLOX-1水平高于对照组(P<0.01)。老年ACI患者LDL-C/HDL-C、non-HDL-C、RLP-C及sLOX-1水平,无斑块患者<稳定斑块患者<不稳定斑块患者,轻度神经功能缺损患者<中度神经功能缺损患者<重度神经功能缺损患者,IMT正常患者<IMT增厚患者<斑块形成患者(P<0.05)。LDL-C/HDL-C、non-HDL-C、RLP-C、sLOX-1水平与老年ACI密切相关(P<0.01)。研究组LDL-C/HDL-C、non-HDL-C、RLP-C及sLOX-1水平分别与斑块稳定性、IMT、NIHSS评分呈正相关(P<0.01)。结论老年ACI患者LDL-C/HDL-C、non-HDL-C、RLP-C、sLOX-1水平明显升高,且与神经功能缺损程度及颈动脉粥样硬化斑块密切相关。

One-Sample Bayesian Predictive Analyses for a Nonhomogeneous Poisson Process with Delayed S-Shaped Intensity Function Using Non-Informative Priors

The delayed S-shaped software reliability growth model (SRGM) is one of the non-homogeneous Poisson process (NHPP) models which have been proposed for software reliability assessment. The model is distinctive because it has a mean value function that reflects the delay in failure reporting: there is a delay between failure detection and reporting time. The model captures error detection, isolation, and removal processes, thus is appropriate for software reliability analysis. Predictive analysis in software testing is useful in modifying, debugging, and determining when to terminate software development testing processes. However, Bayesian predictive analyses on the delayed S-shaped model have not been extensively explored. This paper uses the delayed S-shaped SRGM to address four issues in one-sample prediction associated with the software development testing process. Bayesian approach based on non-informative priors was used to derive explicit solutions for the four issues, and the developed methodologies were illustrated using real data.

Construction of Non-Symmetric Balanced Incomplete Block Design through Combination of Symmetric Disjoint Balanced Incomplete Block Designs

The existence of several non-symmetric balanced incomplete block designs (BIBDs) is still unknown. This is because the non-existence property for non-symmetric BIBDs is still not known and also the existing construction methods have not been able to construct these designs despite their design parameters satisfying the necessary conditions for the existence of BIBD. The study aimed to bridge this gap by introducing a new class of non-symmetric BIBDs. The proposed class of BIBDs is constructed through the combination of disjoint symmetric BIBDs. The study was able to determine that the total number of disjoint symmetric BIBDs (n) with parameters (v = b, r = k, λ) that can be obtained from an un-reduced BIBD with parameters (v, k) is given by n = r - λ. When the n symmetric disjoint BIBDs are combined, then a new class of symmetric BIBDs is formed with parameters v* = v, b* = nb, r* = nr, k* = k, λ* = λ, where 2≤ n ≤ r - λ. The study established that the non-existence property of this class of BIBD was that when is not a perfect square then v should be even and when v* is odd then the equation should not have a solution in integers x, y, z which are not all simultaneously zero. In conclusion, the study showed that this construction technique can be used to construct some non-symmetric BIBDs. However, one must first construct the disjoint symmetric BIBDs before one can construct the non-symmetric BIBD. Thus, the disjoint symmetric BIBDs must exist first before the non-symmetric BIBDs exist.

Existence of Solutions for a Non-Autonomous Evolution Equations with Nonlocal Conditions

The existence of mild solutions for non-autonomous evolution equations with nonlocal conditions in Banach space is studied in this article. We obtained the existence of at least one mild solution to the evolution equations by using Krasnoselskii’s fixed point theorem as well as the theory of the evolution family. The interest of this paper is that any assumptions are not imposed on the nonlocal terms and Green’s functions and a new alternative method is applied to prove the existence of mild solutions. The results obtained in this paper may improve some related conclusions on this topic. An example is given as an application of the results.