Asian Region Research Articles

A hybrid deep learning-based short-term forecast model for ionospheric foF2 in East Asia region

The short-term forecast of the critical frequency of the ionospheric F2 layer (foF2) is particularly challenging due to its nonlinear and non-stationary characteristics. To improve the short-term forecast accuracy of foF2, we propose a short-term hybrid deep learning model that integrates the improved complete ensemble empirical mode decomposition with adaptive noise (ICEEMDAN) and long short-term memory (LSTM) algorithms. The proposed model leverages the ICEEMDAN decomposition algorithm to expand foF2 time series data into multi-dimensional space and utilizes the LSTM algorithm to preserve long-term data information, capturing detailed changes in foF2 parameters and obtaining internal information about foF2. The 2014 and 2017 foF2 data from four observation stations located in Mohe, Beijing, Jeju, and Kokubunji in the mid-latitudes of East Asia were utilized for modeling and 1-hour forecast analysis. The forecast values of the proposed model align closely with the measured data, exhibiting minimal fluctuation in forecast error and effectively tracking the changing trend of foF2. The average root mean square error (RMSE) across the four stations in 2014 is 0.40 MHz, with a relative RMSE (RRMSE) of 7.11 % and a coefficient of determination (R2) of 0.98. The average RMSE in 2017 is 0.43 MHz, RRMSE is 7.68 %, and R2 is 0.92. The proposed model reveals significant improvements in the forecast accuracy of the comparison model compared with the CCIR, URSI, NN, and LSTM models. Especially compared with the CCIR and URSI models in the International Reference Ionosphere (IRI), demonstrating superior real-time tracking capability for foF2 and effectively addressing the challenge of poor short-term forecast accuracy observed in the IRI model.

Anal tuberculosis presented as chronic perianal abscess in an immunocompetent adult: A rare case report

ABSTRACT There are reported 7.5 million cases of extra pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) (EPTB) worldwide and 19% in the South-East Asia region. Anal TB represents an exceedingly uncommon extra pulmonary manifestation of TB), occurring in fewer than 1% of individuals who acquire TB. The occurrence of perianal illness is extremely rare, accounting for 1% of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, while GI TB makes up less than 1% of all TB cases. The most prevalent manifestation is the development of a fistula in the anus, while the presentation as a perianal abscess is uncommon. We present a case of isolated perianal TB with no associated GI or pulmonary dissemination in the immunocompetent.

Prevalence and accurate diagnosis of polycystic ovary syndrome in adolescents across world regions: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

To examine the global prevalence of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) among adolescents across world regions, comparing the 2003 Rotterdam consensus criteria with the current International Evidence-based PCOS Guideline criteria which omits polycystic ovarian morphology (PCOM). Systematic review and meta-analysis, Prospero CRD42022372029. OVID MEDLINE, All EBM, PsycInfo, EMBASE, and CINAHL were searched from 1990 to November 2023 for studies assessing the prevalence of PCOS in unselected adolescent populations. Overall, 15 708 articles were identified. After removal of duplicates, 11 868 titles and abstracts and 445 full texts were assessed. Of these, 24 articles reporting on 23 studies from five world regions were included. In meta-analysis of 20 studies (n = 14 010 adolescents), global prevalence was 9.8% (95% CI 7.2, 12.3) according to original Rotterdam criteria, and 6.3% (95% CI 3.9, 8.8) according to International Evidence-based Guideline criteria. Global PCOS prevalence based on self-report was 9.8% (95% CI 5.5, 14.1). Grouped by WHO region, prevalence ranged from 2.9% (95% CI 2.0, 3.9) in the Western Pacific region to 11.4% (95% CI 7.1, 15.7) in the South-East Asia region according to guideline criteria. This paramount global meta-analysis on adolescent PCOS diagnosis directly informed the 2023 International PCOS Guideline. Guideline criteria generated a global PCOS prevalence of 6.3%, compared with 9.8% on Rotterdam criteria (including PCOM). Excluding PCOM, which overlaps with normal pubertal transition, is expected to deter over-diagnosis. To avoid under-diagnosis, the Guideline recommends identifying those with either irregular cycles or hyperandrogenism as being "at risk"; this group should undergo longitudinal serial evaluations until adulthood.

A hierarchical Bayesian regression framework to analyze climate data from Central Asia region

A hierarchical Bayesian regression framework to analyze climate data from Central Asia region

ROLE OF ASEAN IN ECONOMIC INTEGRATION PROCESSES IN ASIA

ASEAN plays significant role in the economic integration processes in Asia. The financial crisis in 1997 fostered the integration processes between Asian countries. Asian integration mainly characterized by the open regionalism which promotes economic integration and trade liberalization between states. Asian regionalism is market-driven and open to economic cooperation, trade and investment. ASEAN promote the internal integration between member states of the organization and external integration between ASEAN and partners. ASEAN’s initiativesthat focused on external integration such as ASEAN Regional Forum, APEC, East Asia Summit, ASEAN+3 and others. Through its collaborative efforts and commitment to fostering economic partnerships, the Asian region has witnessed substantial progress in trade, investme nt and economic cooperation. The article analyzes the intra-regional trade, investment flows , economic cooperation initiatives between ASEAN and East Asian countries. This article examine s economic relations of ASEAN with China, Japan and South Korea in the framework of ASEAN+3. The ASEAN+3 forum fosters economic cooperation between Southeast Asia and East Asian countries such as China, Japan, South Korea. The cooperation between ASEAN and China, Japan, South Korea mainly focused on the economic cooperation, mainly trade, FDI Investment and digital economy.ASEAN+3 considered asan important platform for promoting regiona l cooperation between the countries of Southeast Asia and East Asia.

RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN LOGISTICS SECTOR AND ECONOMIC GROWTH IN ASEAN COUNTRIES

In the modern economics, any manufacturing companies have increasingly relied on professional logistics firms, leading to rapid growth in the logistics sector as a service industry and its significant contribution to economic development. With increasing globalization and competition, countries have focused on enhancing their logistics systems to ensure stable economic growth and strengthen global trade competitiveness. In the ASEAN region, logistics plays a critical role, facilitating cross-border trade and regional connectivity. This study aims to investigate the relationship between the logistics sector, specifically air freight transportation, and economic growth in ASEAN countries, given the sector's central role in supporting supply chain management and trade activities. The primary objective of this study is to determine whether there is a causal relationship between air freight transportation (AFT), a key logistics activity, and gross domestic product (GDP) growth in six ASEAN countries. The study seeks to provide insights into how investment in logistics infrastructure, particularly in air freight, may influence economic growth in the region. The study uses panel data for six ASEAN countries from 1996 to 2021. Data on GDP growth and air freight transportation were sourced from the World Bank’s World Development Indicators database. A series of statistical tests, including the Cross-Sectional Augmented Dickey Fuller (CADF) test, Pesaran’s slope homogeneity test, and the Bootstrap Granger causality test, were performed to examine cross-sectional dependence and the causal relationship between GDP growth and air freight transportation. Descriptive statistics revealed significant disparities in air freight transportation capacity among the countries studied, with Indonesia and Thailand showing substantial air freight volumes compared to the Philippines. However, the results of the panel causality tests, including the Dumitrescu and Hurlin panel causality test, indicate that no causal relationship exists between air freight transportation and GDP growth in the six ASEAN countries.

INTERNATIONAL ISLAMIC BANKS’ POPULARITY AMIDST THE ASEAN ECONOMIC COMMUNITY: INSIGHTS FROM INDONESIA AND MALAYSIA

The establishment of the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) aimed to achieve regional integration among all ASEAN member states, with particular emphasis on financial integration. Islamic banking is in line with the broader goals of the AEC, as an alternative financial system, helping to build a more resilient and inclusive financial system in the region. Because of this resiliency and inclusiveness, Islamic banks have been encouraged to develop into international banks in the ASEAN region through increasing their assets and earnings. This paper aims to examine the position of International Islamic banks (IIb) in the AEC under its conventional banking services: OCBC Bank from Singapore, Maybank and CIMB Bank from Malaysia. Through the analysis of banking trends, this qualitative study compares the level of popularity of those banks in Indonesia and Malaysia, the two Muslim-majority countries in ASEAN, after the initial establishment of the AEC period in 2016 to 2024. The findings indicated that the most popular Islamic financial services in Malaysia are provided by Maybank, while the most well-known Islamic financial services under IIb in Indonesia are provided by CIMB Bank. This paper provides an overview of the globalisation of IIb in ASEAN and fills a research gap on the development of IIb, particularly within the AEC.

Comparative Analysis of Sustainable Seafarers’ Employment and Welfare Systems in South Korea and China: Contemporary Issues and Improvements

Seafarers are recognized as essential workers responsible for maintaining the national logistics supply chain. This study analyzes the sustainable seafarers’ employment and welfare systems in South Korea and China using the comparative case study approach and presents relevant implications. In the era of the “New Normal” after the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic, which is marked by hyper-personalization, seafarers have become increasingly resistant to acquiring maritime education and performing onboard duties. Even though South Korea has recognized seafarers as key agents of national economic growth, the participation of the new generation in the shipping industry has recently been declining. Meanwhile, China has been developing its shipping industry since the Deng Xiaoping reforms and fosters skilled seafarers by providing rigorous maritime education. However, both countries have been experiencing difficulties in ensuring the legal and social protection of seafarers; hence, the challenge of providing sustainable employment and welfare to seafarers remains. In conclusion, this study proposes the establishment of the “Asia Maritime Education, Employment, and Welfare Support Center” to support seafarers’ employment and welfare with the cooperation of other countries in the Asian region.

Aloe vera's therapeutic role in treating oral lesions: A review

Aloe vera has been recognized for centuries as a medicinal plant renowned for its myriad health benefits, earning it the moniker of 'nature's miracle healer'. This tropical succulent thrives in warm, arid climates and resembles a cactus with its fleshy, spiky leaves. Among approximately 400 species of Aloe, Aloe barbadensis Miller (known as Aloe vera or "true aloe") stands out, predominantly found in Asia, Africa, and other tropical regions. This particular species is celebrated for its medicinal properties, including moisturizing, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anticancer, antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal effects.

On the Relationship between the Drying out of the Aral Sea and the Salinization of Irrigated Lands

In this article, it is emphasized that the drying of the Aral Sea is the main reason for geoecological problems such as salinization and desertification in the Central Asian region, especially in Uzbekistan. Suggestions and recommendations are given to reduce the negative consequences of these problems.

TRANSPORT SYSTEMS AS ESSENTIAL PART OF GOVERNMENT POLICY

The paper discusses the significance of transport systems as a crucial compone nt of public policy in the majority of countries worldwide. Transport policy aims to achieve various objectives, including promoting economic growth, enhancing accessibility, improving safety, reducing environmental impacts, and promoting social equity. A significant aspect is the substantial funding required to construct and maintain transportation infrastructure, includin g roadways, railway tracks, airports, harbors, and publictransportation systems.Special emphasis is placed on international transport corridors such as the Trans-Caspia n International Transportation Route, which complements the Chinese Belt and Road initiative and presents new opportunities for trade between China and European nations. The paper emphasize s the importance of collaboration between different levels of government and internationa l stakeholders to address cross-border transportation challenges and harmonize regulations. The authors also discuss the role of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization in the development of regional transportation infrastructure and logistics. They highlight key issues such as outdate d infrastructure, high transportation costs, low efficiency, and the need for increased transit capacity. Additionally, they discuss other international initiatives, such as the Eurasian Economic Union and Central Asian Regional Economic Cooperation that aim to improve regional connectivity and facilitate trade.In conclusion, they emphasize the importance of strategic planning and investment in transportation systems to promote sustainable economic growth and enhance transportation links between Central Asian countries and other regions of the world.

INFLUENCE OF THE ISLAMIC FACTOR ON TRANSFORMATION PROCESSES OF THE SOCIO-POLITICAL SYSTEM IN KAZAKHSTAN AND CENTRAL ASIA

The article examines theoretical and conceptual approaches to the study of the influence of Islam and the Islamic factor in the discourse of transformational socio-political processes in Kazakhstan and the Central Asian region. Understanding and interpreting current paradigms and trends in the development of Islam and related sociocultural, socio-political processes facilitates the orientation of our country and society in the changing realities of the world order. The development of possible mechanisms for regulating modernization processes in our country in the field of state-confessional policy has great academic and practical significance for the domestic scientific community. The article also examines differences in the interpretation of Islam among different communities in the region, as well as the impact of global trends on religious practices and political activism. Overall, the article aims to highlight the complex dynamics between Islam and socio-political life in Kazakhstan and Central Asia, focusing on the key transformational processes and challenges facing regional societies.

Obesity in patients with craniopharyngioma in the South Asian region – A distinct phenotype

BackgroundCraniopharyngiomas are rare benign tumors located in the sellar and suprasellar region, with an incidence of 0.5–2 cases per million as reported in Western studies. Post-treatment, including surgery and/or radiotherapy, many patients develop significant obesity, primarily due to hypothalamic damage and associated complications such as hypopituitarism. In the South Asian population, genetic predisposition to obesity at lower BMIs, coupled with a carbohydrate-rich diet, may exacerbate obesity in craniopharyngioma patients, presenting a unique challenge. MethodsThis submission is a commentary based on a comprehensive literature review. The authors conducted the review using PubMed to focus on English-language articles covering hypothalamic obesity, craniopharyngioma and obesity in the South Asian population from 1939 to the present. ResultsThe literature review revealed that 50–60 % of patients treated for craniopharyngioma develop obesity, predominantly linked to hypothalamic damage, although these data are mainly derived from Western studies. Hypopituitarism was frequently observed, further contributing to the obesity. Despite a caloric intake appropriate for the age and gender, these patients exhibited reduced physical activity as measured by wrist accelerometers. Patients with hypothalamic obesity due to craniopharyngioma are at risk for metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular morbidity. Additionally, visual impairment was common, leading to a decreased quality of life. The South Asian population, genetically predisposed to visceral obesity and a carbohydrate-rich diet, may display a distinct phenotype. Although multiple treatment modalities have been tried, there is no definite treatment modality available to counteract this condition at present. ConclusionSouth Asian phenotype of craniopharyngioma-related obesity is characterized by significant metabolic and hormonal dysregulation, influenced by both dietary and genetic factors. Nevertheless, there may be a lot to be still understood about this devastating, rapid, relentless hypothalamic obesity syndrome. Also, a higher morbidity rate within this population, underscores the need for further research to develop targeted interventions.

IMPACT OF CLIMATE CHANGE ON MIGRATION PROCESSES IN CENTRAL ASIA

The article discusses the problems of climate change, water scarcity, desertification and how these problems affect migration processes in Kazakhstan and the Central Asian region. The main objective of the study is to analyze the conceptual problems of climate migration in Central Asia, as well as to identify their key aspects and the possibility of mitigating the effects of global warming. The main objectives of the study include analyzing scientific research, legislative acts and international studies related to new aspects of migration, reviewing environmental factors of migration processes, studying the relationship between climate change and migration. The study used methods of qualitative analysis of expert opinions and methods of substantive analysis of scientific publications. The use of social forecasting methods made it possible to identify the scientific novelty that global warming is an important factor in migration processes. The results of the study allow for a better understanding of the challenges under consideration, which have a global context. But given their degree of influence in Central Asia in general and Kazakhstan in particular, global warming may have a more negative effect. The interrelation of these challenges on migration processes, security and development of Kazakhstan and Central Asian countries is considered. In addition, possible approaches to reduce the effect of global warming are analyzed, as well as the need to increase research in this direction.

Assessing the Impact of New Silk Road Initiatives on Kazakhstan's Business Environment

This study conducts a comprehensive evaluation of four major regional economic integration initiatives along the New Silk Road in Eurasia: The Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU), the Silk Road Economic Belt (SREB), the New Silk Road (NSR), and the Central Asia Regional Economic Cooperation (CAREC) program. By employing an expert-based analysis method, the research assesses the initiatives from the perspective of the Kazakhstani business environment, identifying critical criteria for successful economic integration, including intra-union trade, market expansion, supply chain optimization, regulatory harmonization, and access to financing. Drawing parallels with the historical Silk Road's focus on trade and economic prosperity, this research employs an expert-based analysis method to assess these modern initiatives from the perspective of the Kazakhstani business environment. Through structured expert panel assessments and statistical analysis, the study determines which initiatives offer the most tangible benefits to businesses in Kazakhstan and the broader region. The findings indicate that the SREB initiative scored highest overall, particularly in fostering regional economic development and business growth, with a total score of 197, followed by the EAEU with 181. The findings reveal that the SREB initiative scored highest overall, followed by the EAEU, indicating their strong potential for fostering regional economic development and business growth. This study provides valuable insights for policymakers and businesses navigating the complex landscape of Eurasian economic integration. It offers a framework for evaluating the effectiveness of new Silk Road initiatives in promoting regional prosperity and cooperation, with particular relevance to Kazakhstan's position in Central Asia.

Maximizing Growth and Yield Components: Comparative Analysis of Surface and Subsurface Drip Irrigation in Intensively Farmed Rice Systems

Water scarcity is a critical issue in arid and semi-arid regions worldwide, necessitating efficient irrigation methods in agriculture. This study evaluated the effectiveness of surface and subsurface drip irrigation systems in direct-seeded rice (DSR) followed by zero-till wheat or maize, compared to conventional puddled transplanted rice (PTR) systems. The two-year experiment, conducted at the International Rice Research Institute's South Asia Regional Centre in Varanasi, India, employed a randomized complete block design with eight treatments. Results showed that DSR followed by zero-till wheat with subsurface drip irrigation at 60-cm spacing significantly outperformed other treatments. This system increased rice grain yield by 6.52% and 18.82%, straw yield by 7.68% and 13.45%, and total biomass by 8.30% and 9.73% in 2020 and 2021, respectively, compared to PTR followed by zero-till wheat. Subsurface drip irrigation also led to improved plant growth parameters, including plant height and number of tillers, and enhanced yield attributes such as number of panicles and filled grains per panicle. The study concludes that subsurface drip irrigation in DSR systems offers a promising solution for sustainable intensification and efficient use of water and energy in rice-based cropping systems. However, long-term, multi-location trials are recommended to establish precise water and energy savings under various conditions.

Optimization of snow-related processes in Noah-MP land surface model over the mid-latitudes of Asian region

Snow plays a critical role in modulating surface energy, water cycles, and climate prediction. Optimizing snow-related parameterizations can enhance the model behaviors in simulating snow-related physical processes and reduce the cold bias observed in winter climate simulations in the Northern Hemisphere. In this study, the topographic complexity and wind speed were incorporated into the parameterization of the snow cover fraction (SCF) and newly fallen snow density (SFD) respectively within the Noah with multi-parameterization (Noah-MP) LSM to optimize the simulation of snow-related processes in the mid-latitude regions of East Asia. A control simulation and three sensitivity experiments were conducted to investigate and quantify the effects of topographic complexity and wind speed on the simulation of snow-related processes and land surface temperature (LST) against MODIS products. The results showed that modifications to the two schemes effectively mitigated the overestimation of snow cover and albedo, and alleviated cold biases in the most of study area. The influence of SFD scheme considering wind speed was more pronounced in regions with more snowfall and higher wind speed, while the SCF scheme considering topographic complexity showed a more widespread effect. The combination of these two modified schemes yielded the best performance. The mean biases of SCF, albedo, and LST over the entire study region with both modified schemes were reduced by 0.126 (∼63 %), 0.044 (∼41 %), and 0.584 °C (∼18 %), respectively. Their RMSEs were reduced by 0.119 (∼36 %), 0.036 (∼22 %), and 0.489 °C (∼10 %), respectively. This study highlights the importance of wind conditions and topographic complexity in the simulations of snow-related characteristics over the mid-latitudes of Asian region.

THE ROLE OF MONGOLIA IN REGIONAL SECURITY

The situation in Northeast Asia is an important topic of international security arena. Political and economic relations between Russia and China, as well as the Korean Peninsula issue, which can have a major impact in Northeast Asia as such powerful actors that can change the world order and security environment. Past decades, the peace policy of mutual trust between the countries of the Northeast Asian region has become the most important issue not only in the regional but also in the international security environment. Therefore, it is important to analyze and assess a strategic interests and international geopolitical ambition of major powers that could directly or indirectly affect Mongolia's national security to develop national strategic solutions to enhance Mongolia’s national security and its security environment. Mongolia has no territorial, economic, military or political conflicts of interest with any of the countries in the region. Such reasons can give Mongolia an opportunity to be a key player in confidence-building measures to prevent hostilities, to avert escalation, to reduce military tension in Northeast Asia. There are many ways and fields to operate as peace player in this region. For instance, Mongolia can be an initiator or a main actor of a regional peacekeeping cooperation organization in Northeast Asia.

The role of family doctors in developing primary care systems in Asia: a systematic review of qualitative research conducted in middle-income countries 2010-2020.

The Asia Pacific Region's middle-income countries (MICs) face unique challenges in the ongoing development of primary care (PC) systems. This development is complicated by systemic factors, including rapid policy changes and the introduction of private healthcare services, as well as the mounting challenges associated with ageing populations and increasing rates of chronic diseases. Despite the widespread acknowledgement of the importance of family doctors in the development of PC services, relatively little is known about how these roles have developed in Asian MICs. To address this gap, this systematic review presents a synthesis of recent research focused on the role of family doctors within the PC systems of MICs in the Asia Pacific Region. We searched six electronic databases (CINAHL Complete, Embase, PsycINFO, PubMed, Web of Science, and Index Medicus for the South-East Asia Region and Western Pacific) for peer-reviewed qualitative literature published between January 2010 and December 2020. The quality of the studies was evaluated using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme tool. Eighteen articles were included in the analysis. Findings from these articles were extracted and synthesised using qualitative thematic synthesis. We used the Rainbow Framework to analyse the interconnections within health systems at the macro, meso and micro levels. Our analysis of the included articles showed that family doctors play a crucial role in bridging the gap between hospitals and communities. They are essential in adopting holistic approaches to health and wellbeing and are in a unique position to try and address social, psychological, and biological aspects of health. Our findings also highlight the influence of policy changes at the macro level on the role and responsibilities of family doctors at the meso (organisational) and micro (interpersonal) levels. Limited research has explored the role of family doctors in the ongoing development of primary care systems in MICs in the Asia Pacific Region. The findings of this review have significant implications for policymakers and healthcare administrators involved in ongoing improvements to and strengthening of PC systems. Areas of particular concern relate to policy linked with training and workforce development, insurance systems and public awareness of what primary care services are.

Economic and supply chain impacts from energy price shocks in Southeast Asia

Following the war in Ukraine, it became evident that substantial energy price increases had complex impacts on the economic systems and supply chains throughout the Southeast Asian region. In this article, we employ a global applied general equilibrium model (GTAP-E-PowerS) to examine how ongoing energy price increases might affect sectors, economies and emissions levels of the region. We additionally investigate how technological development including energy efficiency gains, utilisation of capital and how output augmenting technologies may help mitigate costs. Our findings indicate demand for renewable energy by private and industrial sectors increase substantially as a substitute for traditional fossil fuels, but are not adequate to compensate for losses. Agriculture and food sectors are not significantly affected, suggesting less hazards to food security as they are not energy-intensive. Manufacturing, transport and electricity generation sectors, which are energy-intensive, are materially adversely affected. More interestingly, however, is the primary energy supply sectors, viz. oil and gas extraction, and petroleum product manufacturing sectors, whose output declines by 20–70 % across countries. Real GDP also declines substantially, by 1.0–3.8 % in the Philippines, Singapore, Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia and Thailand. Conversely, total emissions decline by 6–22 % across countries. Of the options considered, investment in improving utilisation of capital resources is found to be the most effective against energy price shocks.