Pension fund must consider some significant issues when making renewable energy project investment decisions.It is necessary to determine the most important factors and prioritize the indicators.Accordingly,the purpos...Pension fund must consider some significant issues when making renewable energy project investment decisions.It is necessary to determine the most important factors and prioritize the indicators.Accordingly,the purpose of this study is to conduct a priority analysis of the determinants of investment in renewable energy projects by pension funds.This study constructs a novel fuzzy decision-making model.First,five indicators for this process are weighted using an entropy methodology based on sine trigonometric Pythagorean fuzzy sets.The CRITIC methodology is also considered to make a comparative evaluation.Second,five different clean energy investment alternatives for pension funds are ranked using the RATGOS methodology.Similarly,this ranking analysis is also made by considering TOPSIS technique to check the reliability of the results.The main contribution of this study is the creation of a new and comprehensive fuzzy decision-making model to identify the most important factors in renewable energy project investments for pension funds.The proposed model uses the RATGOS technique to rank clean energy investment alternatives for pension funds.By considering the geometrical mean in the RATGOS calculation process,criticisms related to existing ranking techniques can be overcome.The use of sine trigonometric Pythagorean fuzzy numbers provides significant benefits to the quality of the proposed decision-making model.The defuzzification process can be implemented appropriately using these sets.Therefore,this study’s findings pave the way for investors to make investment decisions under these circumstances.It is concluded that the most important criterion is risk minimization.Effective regulations are another critical issue.Furthermore,the ranking results indicate that the most suitable renewable energy alternative is green bonds.The comparative results with STPFY-TOPSIS show that the proposed model generates coherent and reliable findings.展开更多
Although aging has traditionally been viewed as the most important risk factor for osteoarthritis(OA),an increasing amount of epidemiological evidence has highlighted the association between metabolic abnormalities an...Although aging has traditionally been viewed as the most important risk factor for osteoarthritis(OA),an increasing amount of epidemiological evidence has highlighted the association between metabolic abnormalities and OA,particularly in younger individuals.Metabolic abnormalities,such as obesity and typeⅡdiabetes,are strongly linked to OA,and they affect both weightbearing and non-weight-bearing joints,thus suggesting that the pathogenesis of OA is more complicated than the mechanical stress induced by overweight.This review aims to explore the recent advances in research on the relationship between metabolic abnormalities and OA risk,including the impact of abnormal glucose and lipid metabolism,the potential pathogenesis and targeted therapeutic strategies.展开更多
The presented research aims to design a new prevention class(P)in the HIV nonlinear system,i.e.,the HIPV model.Then numerical treatment of the newly formulated HIPV model is portrayed handled by using the strength of ...The presented research aims to design a new prevention class(P)in the HIV nonlinear system,i.e.,the HIPV model.Then numerical treatment of the newly formulated HIPV model is portrayed handled by using the strength of stochastic procedure based numerical computing schemes exploiting the artificial neural networks(ANNs)modeling legacy together with the optimization competence of the hybrid of global and local search schemes via genetic algorithms(GAs)and active-set approach(ASA),i.e.,GA-ASA.The optimization performances through GA-ASA are accessed by presenting an error-based fitness function designed for all the classes of the HIPV model and its corresponding initial conditions represented with nonlinear systems of ODEs.To check the exactness of the proposed stochastic scheme,the comparison of the obtained results and Adams numerical results is performed.For the convergence measures,the learning curves are presented based on the different contact rate values.Moreover,the statistical performances through different operators indicate the stability and reliability of the proposed stochastic scheme to solve the novel designed HIPV model.展开更多
Detailed facies analysis of the Neogene successions of the Pishin Belt （Katawaz Basin） has enabled documentation of successive depositional systems and paleogeographic settings of the basin formed by the collision o...Detailed facies analysis of the Neogene successions of the Pishin Belt （Katawaz Basin） has enabled documentation of successive depositional systems and paleogeographic settings of the basin formed by the collision of the northwestern continental margin of the Indian Plate and the Afghan Block. During the Early Miocene, subaerial sedimentation started after the final closure of the Katawaz Remnant Ocean. Based on detailed field data, twelve facies were recognized in Neogene successions exposed in the Pishin Belt. These facies were further organized into four facies associations i.e. channels, crevasse splay, natural levee and floodplain facies associations. Facies associations and variations provided ample evidence to recognize a number of fluvial architectural components in the succession e.g., low-sinuosity sandy braided river, mixed-load meandering, high-sinuosity meandering channels, single-story sandstone and/or conglomerate channels, lateral accretion surfaces （point bars） and alluvial fans. Neogene sedimentation in the Pishin Belt was mainly controlled by active tectonism and thrusting in response to the oblique collision of the Indian Plate with the Afghan Block of the Eurasian Plate along the Chaman-Nushki Fault. Post Miocene deformation of these formations successively caused them to contribute as an additional source terrain for the younger formations.展开更多
The present study is related to design a stochastic framework for the numerical treatment of the Van der Pol heartbeat model(VP-HBM)using the feedforward artificial neural networks(ANNs)under the optimization of parti...The present study is related to design a stochastic framework for the numerical treatment of the Van der Pol heartbeat model(VP-HBM)using the feedforward artificial neural networks(ANNs)under the optimization of particle swarm optimization(PSO)hybridized with the active-set algorithm(ASA),i.e.,ANNs-PSO-ASA.The global search PSO scheme and local refinement of ASA are used as an optimization procedure in this study.An error-based merit function is defined using the differential VP-HBM form as well as the initial conditions.The optimization of the merit function is accomplished using the hybrid computing performances of PSO-ASA.The designed performance of ANNs-PSO-ASA is implemented for the numerical treatment of the VP-HBM dynamics by fluctuating the pulse shape adjustment terms,external forcing factor and damping coefficient with fixed ventricular contraction period.To perform the correctness of the present scheme,the obtained numerical results through the designed ANN-PSO-ASA will be compared with the Adams numerical method.The statistical investigations with larger dataset are provided using the“mean absolute deviation”,“Theil’s inequality coefficient”and“variance account for”operators to perform the applicability,reliability,and effectiveness of the designed ANNs-PSO-ASA scheme for solving the VP-HBM.展开更多
Introduction:Chronic diseases are becoming more prevalent worldwide.The effects of chronic illnesses are disastrous not only for the diagnosed person but also for their entire family.This study explores chronic disea...Introduction:Chronic diseases are becoming more prevalent worldwide.The effects of chronic illnesses are disastrous not only for the diagnosed person but also for their entire family.This study explores chronic diseases’social and economic impact on low-income families.The study aims to determine the economic and social implications of various chronic diseases and the loss of income due to these conditions among low-income individuals in Southern Punjab,Pakistan.Methodology:A sample of 424 patients was selected from different areas of Southern Punjab.Data were collected using a questionnaire that included questions about economic status,self-reported health status,social status,management strategies,and health insurance,among other factors.Results:The mean monthly income of the respondents was found to be 57,097.6 Pakistani rupee(PKR),and the mean monthly expenses for treatment were 8,256.1 PKR.The loss of income was calculated at 15%.Additionally,62%of patients spent more than 10%of their monthly income on managing their disease.Approximately 85%of the respondents reported that chronic diseases affected their social life.Furthermore,80%of patients lacked health insurance.Conclusion:Chronic diseases impose significant economic and social burdens on patients and their families in Southern Punjab.To reduce the burden of chronic diseases,the government should enhance healthcare services in this region and provide health insurance to low-income families.展开更多
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a debilitating chronic joint disease affecting large populations of patients, especially the elderly. The pathological mechanisms of OA are currently unknown. Multiple risk factors are involved ...Osteoarthritis (OA) is a debilitating chronic joint disease affecting large populations of patients, especially the elderly. The pathological mechanisms of OA are currently unknown. Multiple risk factors are involved in OA development. Among these risk factors, alterations of mechanical loading in the joint leading to changes in biological signaling pathways have been known as a key event in OA development. The importance of AMPK-β-catenin-Runx2 signaling in the initiation and progression of OA has been recognized in recent years. In this review, we discuss the recent progress in understanding the role of this signaling pathway and the underlying interaction mechanisms during OA development. We also discuss the drug development aiming to target this signaling pathway for OA treatment.展开更多
Clubfoot,medically termed congenital talipes equinovarus(CTEV),is a prevalent musculoskeletal birth defect,affecting approximately 0.3%of all live births.This serious congenital anomaly results from structural abnorma...Clubfoot,medically termed congenital talipes equinovarus(CTEV),is a prevalent musculoskeletal birth defect,affecting approximately 0.3%of all live births.This serious congenital anomaly results from structural abnormalities in the foot and lower leg,leading to abnormal positioning of the ankle and foot joints.This review provides a comprehensive overview of the causative factors associated with CTEV and evaluates current therapeutic approaches.Although variations in genes encoding contractile proteins of skeletal myofibers have been proposed as contributors to the etiology of CTEV,no definitive candidate genes have been conclusively linked to increased risk.However,genes such as TBX4,PITX1,and members of the HOXA,HOXC,and HOXD clusters,as well as NAT2,have been implicated in the condition’s development,playing critical roles in limb development,muscle formation,and tissue differentiation.Also,Axin1 plays a key role in joint formation and skeletal development by inhibiting β-catenin-BMP signaling.It could significantly serve as a therapeutic target for fibular hemimelia and multiple synostoses syndrome.The exact mechanisms and the extent of their physical and genetic interactions remain subjects of ongoing research.Understanding the genetic determinants and cellular pathways involved in CTEV is crucial for unravelling the pathophysiology of this complex deformity.展开更多
Aim: Genotype 3 is the most prevalent genotype in Pakistan. Despite a revolution in the treatment of Hepatitis C, genotype 3 is still thought to be difficult to treat genotype. The price of patent direct acting antivi...Aim: Genotype 3 is the most prevalent genotype in Pakistan. Despite a revolution in the treatment of Hepatitis C, genotype 3 is still thought to be difficult to treat genotype. The price of patent direct acting antivirals was thought to a great limiting factor especially for low income countries. In Pakistan low cost generics of daclatasvir and sofosbuvir are easily available for treatment. The aim of our study is to provide real life local data to determine their efficacy and safety. Methods: This open-label, non-randomized, uncontrolled study was carried out at Center for Liver and Digestive Diseases, Holyfamily Hospital, Rawalpindi. We enrolled patients from March 2016 through March 2018 who were 18 years or older having chronic hepatitis C infection with detectable polymerase chain reaction (PCR), regardless of whether they were treatment na?ve or have experienced Interferon in the past. The patients were offered generic sofosbuvir 400 mg and daclatasvir 60 mg once daily with or without ribavirin for a period of 12 to 24 weeks. Follow-up PCRs were performed at 4th week of treatment, end of treatment and 12 weeks post treatment. All those patients were included in the study that had at least one follow-up PCR during or after the course of treatment. Results: A total of 102 patients were enrolled in the study with a mean age of 48.11 ± 12.70 including 63% males and 37% females. All patients were genotype 3. On 4th week follow up, 31/36 (86.11%) patients had quantitative PCR negative. Out of 102 patients 78 patients had follow up PCR at the completion of therapy with an end of treatment response of about 96.1%. Thirty patients had a follow up at 12 weeks post treatment with a SVR12 of 83.33% (25/30) amongst which treatment Na?ve had a response rate of 84% (21/25), treatment experience 80%(4/5), non-cirrhotics 85.71% (12/14), cirrhotics 81.25% (13/16) and decompensated chronic liver disease patients have a SVR12 of about 83.33% (10/12) respectively. The combination was well tolerated with few side effects, 18.6% patients had itching, 10.8% had insomnia, 8.8% had oral ulcers and 6.9% had fatigue. Conclusion: Generic sofosbuvir and daclatasvir are cheap, safe and efficacious with a SVR12 of about 83.33%amongst genotype 3 patients. These generics will act as a pivot in the eradication of hepatitis C infection from developing world.展开更多
文摘Pension fund must consider some significant issues when making renewable energy project investment decisions.It is necessary to determine the most important factors and prioritize the indicators.Accordingly,the purpose of this study is to conduct a priority analysis of the determinants of investment in renewable energy projects by pension funds.This study constructs a novel fuzzy decision-making model.First,five indicators for this process are weighted using an entropy methodology based on sine trigonometric Pythagorean fuzzy sets.The CRITIC methodology is also considered to make a comparative evaluation.Second,five different clean energy investment alternatives for pension funds are ranked using the RATGOS methodology.Similarly,this ranking analysis is also made by considering TOPSIS technique to check the reliability of the results.The main contribution of this study is the creation of a new and comprehensive fuzzy decision-making model to identify the most important factors in renewable energy project investments for pension funds.The proposed model uses the RATGOS technique to rank clean energy investment alternatives for pension funds.By considering the geometrical mean in the RATGOS calculation process,criticisms related to existing ranking techniques can be overcome.The use of sine trigonometric Pythagorean fuzzy numbers provides significant benefits to the quality of the proposed decision-making model.The defuzzification process can be implemented appropriately using these sets.Therefore,this study’s findings pave the way for investors to make investment decisions under these circumstances.It is concluded that the most important criterion is risk minimization.Effective regulations are another critical issue.Furthermore,the ranking results indicate that the most suitable renewable energy alternative is green bonds.The comparative results with STPFY-TOPSIS show that the proposed model generates coherent and reliable findings.
基金supported by the National Key Research and Development Program of China(2021YFB3800800)to L.T.and D.Csupported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(NSFC)grants(82030067,82161160342 and 82250710174)to D.C.,grant 82360429 to Y.C and grant 82172397 to L.T+5 种基金supported by National Science Foundation of Guangxi(2022JJA141126)Advanced Innovation Teams and Xinghu Scholars Program of Guangxi Medical UniversityChina Postdoctoral Science Foundation(2019M650235)Key R&D Project of Qingxiu District,Nanning,Guangxi(2021003)to Y.C.the Hong Kong RGC grant HKU-17101821 to W.W.L.and D.C.SIAT Innovation Program for Excellent Young Researchers to K.L.
文摘Although aging has traditionally been viewed as the most important risk factor for osteoarthritis(OA),an increasing amount of epidemiological evidence has highlighted the association between metabolic abnormalities and OA,particularly in younger individuals.Metabolic abnormalities,such as obesity and typeⅡdiabetes,are strongly linked to OA,and they affect both weightbearing and non-weight-bearing joints,thus suggesting that the pathogenesis of OA is more complicated than the mechanical stress induced by overweight.This review aims to explore the recent advances in research on the relationship between metabolic abnormalities and OA risk,including the impact of abnormal glucose and lipid metabolism,the potential pathogenesis and targeted therapeutic strategies.
文摘The presented research aims to design a new prevention class(P)in the HIV nonlinear system,i.e.,the HIPV model.Then numerical treatment of the newly formulated HIPV model is portrayed handled by using the strength of stochastic procedure based numerical computing schemes exploiting the artificial neural networks(ANNs)modeling legacy together with the optimization competence of the hybrid of global and local search schemes via genetic algorithms(GAs)and active-set approach(ASA),i.e.,GA-ASA.The optimization performances through GA-ASA are accessed by presenting an error-based fitness function designed for all the classes of the HIPV model and its corresponding initial conditions represented with nonlinear systems of ODEs.To check the exactness of the proposed stochastic scheme,the comparison of the obtained results and Adams numerical results is performed.For the convergence measures,the learning curves are presented based on the different contact rate values.Moreover,the statistical performances through different operators indicate the stability and reliability of the proposed stochastic scheme to solve the novel designed HIPV model.
文摘Detailed facies analysis of the Neogene successions of the Pishin Belt （Katawaz Basin） has enabled documentation of successive depositional systems and paleogeographic settings of the basin formed by the collision of the northwestern continental margin of the Indian Plate and the Afghan Block. During the Early Miocene, subaerial sedimentation started after the final closure of the Katawaz Remnant Ocean. Based on detailed field data, twelve facies were recognized in Neogene successions exposed in the Pishin Belt. These facies were further organized into four facies associations i.e. channels, crevasse splay, natural levee and floodplain facies associations. Facies associations and variations provided ample evidence to recognize a number of fluvial architectural components in the succession e.g., low-sinuosity sandy braided river, mixed-load meandering, high-sinuosity meandering channels, single-story sandstone and/or conglomerate channels, lateral accretion surfaces （point bars） and alluvial fans. Neogene sedimentation in the Pishin Belt was mainly controlled by active tectonism and thrusting in response to the oblique collision of the Indian Plate with the Afghan Block of the Eurasian Plate along the Chaman-Nushki Fault. Post Miocene deformation of these formations successively caused them to contribute as an additional source terrain for the younger formations.
基金This research received funding support from the NSRF via the Program Management Unit for Human Resources&Institutional Development,Research and Innovation(Grant Number B05F640088).
文摘The present study is related to design a stochastic framework for the numerical treatment of the Van der Pol heartbeat model(VP-HBM)using the feedforward artificial neural networks(ANNs)under the optimization of particle swarm optimization(PSO)hybridized with the active-set algorithm(ASA),i.e.,ANNs-PSO-ASA.The global search PSO scheme and local refinement of ASA are used as an optimization procedure in this study.An error-based merit function is defined using the differential VP-HBM form as well as the initial conditions.The optimization of the merit function is accomplished using the hybrid computing performances of PSO-ASA.The designed performance of ANNs-PSO-ASA is implemented for the numerical treatment of the VP-HBM dynamics by fluctuating the pulse shape adjustment terms,external forcing factor and damping coefficient with fixed ventricular contraction period.To perform the correctness of the present scheme,the obtained numerical results through the designed ANN-PSO-ASA will be compared with the Adams numerical method.The statistical investigations with larger dataset are provided using the“mean absolute deviation”,“Theil’s inequality coefficient”and“variance account for”operators to perform the applicability,reliability,and effectiveness of the designed ANNs-PSO-ASA scheme for solving the VP-HBM.
文摘Introduction:Chronic diseases are becoming more prevalent worldwide.The effects of chronic illnesses are disastrous not only for the diagnosed person but also for their entire family.This study explores chronic diseases’social and economic impact on low-income families.The study aims to determine the economic and social implications of various chronic diseases and the loss of income due to these conditions among low-income individuals in Southern Punjab,Pakistan.Methodology:A sample of 424 patients was selected from different areas of Southern Punjab.Data were collected using a questionnaire that included questions about economic status,self-reported health status,social status,management strategies,and health insurance,among other factors.Results:The mean monthly income of the respondents was found to be 57,097.6 Pakistani rupee(PKR),and the mean monthly expenses for treatment were 8,256.1 PKR.The loss of income was calculated at 15%.Additionally,62%of patients spent more than 10%of their monthly income on managing their disease.Approximately 85%of the respondents reported that chronic diseases affected their social life.Furthermore,80%of patients lacked health insurance.Conclusion:Chronic diseases impose significant economic and social burdens on patients and their families in Southern Punjab.To reduce the burden of chronic diseases,the government should enhance healthcare services in this region and provide health insurance to low-income families.
基金supported by National Key Research and Development Program of China(No.2021YFB3800800 to D.C.and L.T)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.82030067,82250710174,82161160342,82060406,82360429 and 82172397 to D.C.and L.T.and Y.C.)+2 种基金the Hong Kong RGC(China)(No.HKU-17101821 to W.W.L and D.C.)Shenzhen Science and Technology Program(Guangdong,China)(No.JSGGKQTD20210831174330015 to H.P.and D.C.)Natural Science Foundation of Guangxi(No.2022JJA141126 to Y.C.).
文摘Osteoarthritis (OA) is a debilitating chronic joint disease affecting large populations of patients, especially the elderly. The pathological mechanisms of OA are currently unknown. Multiple risk factors are involved in OA development. Among these risk factors, alterations of mechanical loading in the joint leading to changes in biological signaling pathways have been known as a key event in OA development. The importance of AMPK-β-catenin-Runx2 signaling in the initiation and progression of OA has been recognized in recent years. In this review, we discuss the recent progress in understanding the role of this signaling pathway and the underlying interaction mechanisms during OA development. We also discuss the drug development aiming to target this signaling pathway for OA treatment.
基金supported by the National Key Research and Development Program of China(No.2022YFA1207500)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.82394445,82161160342,82030067 to D.C.)the Shenzhen Science and Technology Innovation Bureau(Guangdong,China)(No.LCYSSQ20220823091402005-E-001)to D.C.
文摘Clubfoot,medically termed congenital talipes equinovarus(CTEV),is a prevalent musculoskeletal birth defect,affecting approximately 0.3%of all live births.This serious congenital anomaly results from structural abnormalities in the foot and lower leg,leading to abnormal positioning of the ankle and foot joints.This review provides a comprehensive overview of the causative factors associated with CTEV and evaluates current therapeutic approaches.Although variations in genes encoding contractile proteins of skeletal myofibers have been proposed as contributors to the etiology of CTEV,no definitive candidate genes have been conclusively linked to increased risk.However,genes such as TBX4,PITX1,and members of the HOXA,HOXC,and HOXD clusters,as well as NAT2,have been implicated in the condition’s development,playing critical roles in limb development,muscle formation,and tissue differentiation.Also,Axin1 plays a key role in joint formation and skeletal development by inhibiting β-catenin-BMP signaling.It could significantly serve as a therapeutic target for fibular hemimelia and multiple synostoses syndrome.The exact mechanisms and the extent of their physical and genetic interactions remain subjects of ongoing research.Understanding the genetic determinants and cellular pathways involved in CTEV is crucial for unravelling the pathophysiology of this complex deformity.
文摘Aim: Genotype 3 is the most prevalent genotype in Pakistan. Despite a revolution in the treatment of Hepatitis C, genotype 3 is still thought to be difficult to treat genotype. The price of patent direct acting antivirals was thought to a great limiting factor especially for low income countries. In Pakistan low cost generics of daclatasvir and sofosbuvir are easily available for treatment. The aim of our study is to provide real life local data to determine their efficacy and safety. Methods: This open-label, non-randomized, uncontrolled study was carried out at Center for Liver and Digestive Diseases, Holyfamily Hospital, Rawalpindi. We enrolled patients from March 2016 through March 2018 who were 18 years or older having chronic hepatitis C infection with detectable polymerase chain reaction (PCR), regardless of whether they were treatment na?ve or have experienced Interferon in the past. The patients were offered generic sofosbuvir 400 mg and daclatasvir 60 mg once daily with or without ribavirin for a period of 12 to 24 weeks. Follow-up PCRs were performed at 4th week of treatment, end of treatment and 12 weeks post treatment. All those patients were included in the study that had at least one follow-up PCR during or after the course of treatment. Results: A total of 102 patients were enrolled in the study with a mean age of 48.11 ± 12.70 including 63% males and 37% females. All patients were genotype 3. On 4th week follow up, 31/36 (86.11%) patients had quantitative PCR negative. Out of 102 patients 78 patients had follow up PCR at the completion of therapy with an end of treatment response of about 96.1%. Thirty patients had a follow up at 12 weeks post treatment with a SVR12 of 83.33% (25/30) amongst which treatment Na?ve had a response rate of 84% (21/25), treatment experience 80%(4/5), non-cirrhotics 85.71% (12/14), cirrhotics 81.25% (13/16) and decompensated chronic liver disease patients have a SVR12 of about 83.33% (10/12) respectively. The combination was well tolerated with few side effects, 18.6% patients had itching, 10.8% had insomnia, 8.8% had oral ulcers and 6.9% had fatigue. Conclusion: Generic sofosbuvir and daclatasvir are cheap, safe and efficacious with a SVR12 of about 83.33%amongst genotype 3 patients. These generics will act as a pivot in the eradication of hepatitis C infection from developing world.
