General Populace Research Articles

The Crespo Scale: Categorising 'Dangerous' Animal Species with Two Quantifiable Factors

Throughout our history, humanity and the kingdom Animalia have been in conflicts with both sides sharing countless casualties as the outcome. Among animals, adult female mosquitoes of the Anopheles genus are infamously labelled the deadliest to humans in terms of the number of deaths they cause each year. In this scientific paper, an analysis is given over what other direct and indirect factors can be considered when classifying a species of animal as 'dangerous'. It discusses and concludes exactly why they make it more of a danger to human health and safety than others. This is done utilising a brand-new, categoric scale — which has been dubbed the "Crespo scale" — created and designed to categorise all animal species from categories 1–5. One posing the least danger and five the most. The categorisation is performed by examining factors relevant to the animals themselves, which include the estimated Population Size (PS) and Mortality Rate (MR). The hypothesis is that species possessing a larger PS and a higher MR will be placed further up on the scale and thus are more likely to be a threat. Ultimately, both PS and MR are quantifiable factors that can be used to measure and categorise a species' level of danger in a less biased and more accurate, consistent way. However, the factor of MR can often be indirectly influenced by human-related factors that apply to the human development of a country and its general populace.

Prevalence and Associated Risk Factors of Irritable Bowel Syndrome Among General Population: A Cross-Sectional Study in Qassim Region, Saudi Arabia.

Background Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) affects 10-20% of the global population, primarily manifesting as functional issues leading to abdominal discomfort. Key contributors like genetics, psychological factors, weakened immunity, and environmental pollutants play significant roles. Regional variations exist, with prevalence rates ranging from 7-10% in certain areas like South Asia and the Middle East to as high as 20% in many Western countries. Objective The objective of this study is to assess the prevalence of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and its related risk factors among the general populace of the Qassim region, Saudi Arabia, aiming to offer valuable insights for healthcare planning and intervention strategies. Methods A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted, utilizing a validated self-administered questionnaire among residents of the Qassim region aged over 18 years. The questionnaire included demographic information about the participants and the validated Rome IV questionnaire for IBS in adults. Ethical approval for the study was obtained from the Qassim Research Ethics Committee, and data analysis was conducted using R script language version 4.3.3. A significance level of p < 0.05 was employed to interpret the results. Results Overall, significant associations were observed between IBS diagnosis and food allergy (AOR = 2.34, 99% CI: 1.27-4.29), family history of IBS (Adjusted Odd Ratio (AOR) = 7.03, 99% CI: 3.51-15.74), and abdominal pain lasting more than six months (AOR = 2.54, 99% CI: 1.49-4.33). Conclusion This study highlights a high IBS prevalence (21.4%) in Saudi Arabia's Qassim region. While no overall soda-IBS link was found, males showed a protective effect. Significant associations were noted between food allergy, family history, and abdominal pain with IBS diagnosis, especially among females. Further research on gender disparities and familial and abdominal pain roles in IBS management is warranted.

Nationwide distribution of perfluoroalkyl ether carboxylic acids in Chinese diets: An emerging concern

With the phase-out of perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and its replacement by perfluoroalkyl ether carboxylic acids (PFECAs), there is a potential for increased exposure to various new PFECAs among the general population in China. While there are existing studies on dietary exposure to legacy perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs), research on dietary exposure to PFECAs, especially among the general Chinese populace, remains scarce. In the present study, we investigated the distribution of PFECAs in dietary sources from 33 cities across five major regions in China, along with the associated dietary intake. Analysis indicated that aquatic animal samples contained higher concentrations of legacy PFASs compared to those from terrestrial animals and plants. In contrast, PFECAs were found in higher concentrations in plant and terrestrial animal samples. Notably, hexafluoropropylene oxide dimer (HFPO-DA) was identified as the dominant compound in vegetables, cereals, pork, and mutton across the five regions, suggesting widespread dietary exposure. PFECAs constituted the majority of PFAS intake (57 %), with the estimated daily intake (EDI) of HFPO-DA ranging from 2.33 to 3.96 ng/kg bw/day, which corresponds to 0.78–1.32 times the reference dose (RfD) (3.0 ng/kg bw/day) set by the United States Environmental Protection Agency. Given the ubiquity of HFPO-DA and many other PFECAs in the nationwide diet of China, there is an urgent need for further research into these chemicals to establish relevant safety benchmarks or consumption advisory values for the diet.

Abstract 4799: Hidden epidemics: The gender divide in HCV and cancer screenings among the unhoused

Abstract Background &amp; Methodology: In the United States, the unhoused population experiences disproportionately higher rates of cancer incidence and mortality—double that of the general populace. Despite these startling statistics, there is a notable dearth of research on this topic within medical literature. Our medical student-led pilot study aimed to bridge this knowledge gap by evaluating the uptake of cancer screenings and identifying the barriers faced by the unhoused in Southwest Michigan. Our objective was to enhance the understanding of cancer care disparities and identify factors that hinder access to cancer screenings for this marginalized group. Utilizing questionnaires distributed in homeless shelters, we collected data on the prevalence and impediments to screenings for hepatitis C virus (HCV), and lung, breast, colon, and cervical cancers in a local community. Results: The study encompassed 143 participants, revealing that women reported a shorter median duration of homelessness (5 months) than men (18 months). The primary barriers to cancer screening were access to services and lack of awareness, rather than insurance coverage. Gender disparities were evident in HCV screening, with an overall rate of 55%; however, willingness to screen was higher among women (83%) compared to men (49%). Colon cancer screening showed no significant gender disparity, standing at 45% uptake. The prevalence of smoking was high at 78%, yet a higher proportion of men were amenable to lung cancer screening. Interestingly, Pap smear uptake surpassed national averages, while mammogram rates were below expected at 40%. Discussion &amp; Conclusion: While the discrepancies between genders may not be immediately apparent, our data shows that developing targeted interventions and tailoring the delivery of adequate cancer screenings to the unhoused require consideration of gender as a key factor. Women’s perceived barriers differ slightly from men’s, and generally-speaking, they undergo more cancer screenings per year compared with men. The reluctance among male participants to engage in HCV screening has been observed in other studies as well and as our study demonstrates, it may be related to informational barriers. Although preliminary, our findings shed light on the critical health care issues faced by the unhoused and serves as a steppingstone towards improving our understanding on their challenges in hopes of improving their health outcomes. Comprehensive research is imperative to unravel the complex causes of these gender-based discrepancies. In the interim, the implementation of a navigator social worker system could prove beneficial in facilitating the unhoused with the logistics of screening processes, overcoming transportation hurdles, and reinforcing the importance of ongoing health management. Citation Format: Talal Al-Assil, Claire Kalina, Madison Laird, Nataly Dawood, Raven Riordan, Neya Suresh Kumar, Ryan Olivier, Cheryl Dickson, Gitonga Munene. Hidden epidemics: The gender divide in HCV and cancer screenings among the unhoused [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2024; Part 1 (Regular Abstracts); 2024 Apr 5-10; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(6_Suppl):Abstract nr 4799.

An Observational Study on Cosmetics Use-related Adverse Effects: Cosmetovigilance Need of the Day.

The pursuit of aesthetic attractiveness and increased awareness have contributed significantly to the growth of the cosmetic industry. However, it is crucial to recognize that even the minimal use of cosmetics may have harmful consequences for both the overall well-being and the broader community, an issue that has yet to be adequately recognized or addressed. This study is aimed at providing insights into the usage pattern of consumer behavior regarding skin care products and to assess the prevalence and determinants of cosmetic-related adverse events among the general populace. A community-based cross-sectional study was carried out for four months in a satellite city of the National Capital Region (NCR) of India. The data from 435 respondents was collected using a self-administered questionnaire and analyzed using frequencies and percentages. Among 435 participants, 32.9% experienced one or more adverse effects owing to the use of skincare products; the prevalence was higher in females (36.3%). Hair loss, allergies, and dry skin were the most frequently reported adverse effects. The majority of the adverse reactions were reported with soap (21%), followed by shampoo (17%). The gender-wise difference between adverse effects of skin care products was found to be statistically significant. To improve the system's efficiency, a comprehensive review of the current regulatory protocols for cosmetics is crucial. Additionally, it is essential to widely disseminate information on Cosmetovigilance and promote the reporting of any adverse effects of cosmetics within the community; this is the demand of the present time.

Goat mammary epithelial cells provide a better expression system for production of recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein 2 compared to Chinese hamster ovarian cells.

Bone Morphogenetic Protein 2 (BMP2), a member of the Transforming Growth Factor-β (TGF-β) super family of proteinsand is instrumental in the repair of fractures. The synthesis of BMP2 involves extensive post-translational processing and several studies have demonstrated the abysmally low production of rhBMP2 in eukaryotic systems, which may be due to the short half-life of the bioactive protein. Consequently, production costs of rhBMP2 are quite high, limiting its availability to the general populace. Therefore, there is an urgent need to identify better in-vitro systems for large scale production of rhBMP2. In the present study, we have carried out a comparative analysis of rhBMP2 production by the conventionally used Chinese Hamster ovarian cells (CHO) and goat mammary epithelial cells (GMEC), upon transfection with appropriate construct. Udder gland cells are highly secretory, and we reasoned that such cells may serve as a better in-vitro model for large scale production of rhBMP2. Our results indicated that the synthesis and secretion of bioactive rhBMP2 by goat mammary epithelial cells was significantly higher as compared to that by CHO-K1 cells. Our results provide strong evidence that GMECs may serve as a better alternative to other mammalian cells used for therapeutic protein production.

Implementation Of Constituent Recall Of Political Officers In Indonesia As An Effort To Strengthen The Principle Of People's Sovereignty

In Indonesia, the idea of recall has only ever been used by political parties; hence, the general populace has never been given the opportunity to participate in the recall procedure (also known as a constituent recall) for members of the DPR and DPRD who have been directly elected by the people. This is problematic due to the fact that it does not adhere to the democratic values and the notion of people sovereignty that are stipulated by the 1945 Constitution of the Republic of Indonesia. As a result, it is not in conformity with these principles. Doctrinal research is the research technique that was used in this study. Doctrinal research is defined as research that investigates laws that are conceptualised and produced based on the doctrines that are adhered to by the conceptualizers or formulators. This kind of study also falls under the category of normative research. The notion of political party recall rights is the subject of the study that is referred to in this research.

Digital twin simulation modeling, artificial intelligence-based Internet of Manufacturing Things systems, and virtual machine and cognitive computing algorithms in the Industry 4.0-based Slovak labor market

Research background: On the basis of an analysis of the current situation and expectations in the field of implementation of the elements of the Industry 4.0 concept, the purpose of this paper is to identify the effects on the labor market in large manufacturing enterprises in the Slovak Republic. Purpose of the article: The presented work has a theoretical-empirical nature and consists of a theoretical section and a practical section, which includes statistical indicator analysis and quantitative research. In the theoretical section, the paper discusses the issue of Industry 4.0 in general, with a focus on its impact on the labor market, thus laying the groundwork for future research on the subject. Methods: The output of this work is an analysis of selected indicators of the manufacturing industry sector in the Slovak Republic, based on the most recent employment data analysis in the first stage and quantitative research survey in the second stage, with the respondents being manufacturing industry companies operating in the Slovak Republic, and whose primary objective is to determine the current status of the implementation of the elements and technologies of Industry 4.0 in production companies in the Slovak Republic, as well as the factors influencing this situation, such as digital twin simulation modeling, artificial intelligence-based Internet of Manufacturing Things systems, and virtual machine and cognitive computing algorithms. Findings &amp; value added: The research findings indicate that the degree of digitization adopted by businesses in the Slovak Republic is comparatively less robust and more sluggish to adapt. This is primarily attributable to the underdeveloped educational system, population reluctance, self-actualization, and inadequate state support. Recommendations for the Slovak market aim to increase the digital proficiency of businesses and of the general populace through various means, such as reforming legislation, enhancing state support for entrepreneurs, and modifying the education system, constituting the added value of the work.

Determination of pesticide residue content in fruits and vegetables from Lagos, Nigeria.

Developing countries like Nigeria are increasingly employing pesticides to boost the productivity of their agriculture and food supply, despite the fact that doing so poses a health risk to the general populace. The purpose of this study was to assess pesticide residue levels in Lagos, Nigeria. A total of 18 samples from three neighbourhood markets were collected, and they were then examined for the presence of organochlorine (Endosulfan I, Pentachlorophenol, Heptachlor epoxide, and Endosulfan II) and organophosphate (Dichlorvos, Dimethoate, Phorate, and methyl parathion) residues. During the pre-treatment, the multi-residue Quick, Easy, Cheap, Effective, Rugged and Safe (QuEChERS citrate) method with the addition of acetonitrile was used, and then samples were analysed using GC-MS. All of the samples contained dichlorvos, but the orange sample's concentration was below the limit of quantification, making quantification impossible. Dimethoate concentrations were below MRLs except waterleaf sample. With a concentration of 0.043 μg/mL, Waterleaf had the highest quantity of dimethoate in the sample. The findings of this study indicate that in order to safeguard the health of consumers, it is necessary to closely monitor organochlorine and organophosphate use nationwide, along with other related pesticides, and to test for pesticide residues in food products.

Falls From Heights: A Retrospective Review of Roof Fall-Related Trauma.

Background Falls from roofs (FFRs), while constituting just a segment of all falls, pose a significant public health issue. They not only impact individuals in their daily lives but also pose an increased risk in the construction field. The consequences of these falls range broadly, from minor bruises to serious harm, potentially leading to chronic disability or fatality. For the general populace, such falls might happen during simple activities like maintenance, with outcomes varying from fractures to critical head or spinal injuries. In construction, where elevated work is the norm, the likelihood and potential severity of falls are significantly greater. Construction workers face the threat of falls regularly, with these mishaps often resulting in enduring disabilities that affect both life quality and work capability. Methodology This study presents data from a trauma registry system, covering trauma admissions from March 31, 2016, to December 27, 2021, at a level 1 trauma center (Desert Regional Medical Center, Palm Springs, CA). During this five-year and eight-month period, a total of 3,148 patients presented to the emergency department after a fall. This study focuses on patients admitted after an FFR. A retrospective analysis of this data showed that out of these 3,148 patients, 75 presented after an FFR. Results In this retrospective analysis of 75 patients presenting to the emergency department after an FFR, the patient profile was predominantly male (70, 93%), with an average age of 51 years. Hospitalization was required for the majority of thepatients (70, 93%), with a third necessitating intensive care unit (ICU) care. The necessity for surgical procedures was high at 57 (76%). Upon discharge, 8 (11%) patients were moved to acute rehabilitation. Injuries to the extremities were most common, accounting for 21% (36) of cases, in contrast to facial injuries at 8% (15). Upper extremity fractures were the most prevalent presenting injury at 31% (50), while lower extremity fractures were the least at 6% (9). The overall Injury Severity Score (ISS) averaged 12, with patients having hospital length of stays (LOSs) over 10 days presenting higher ISS scores (18) compared to those with shorter stays (ISS of 11). There was no significant difference in ISS between patients aged 60 and above compared to younger patients. Conclusions FFRs represent a substantial cause of injury in both the construction industry and residential settings. This study aims to provide an overview and summary of the existing literature on FFRs, present effective fall prevention methods, and underscore the considerable consequences of such injuries on both construction workers and homeowners. Additionally, it includes an analysis of a dataset detailing injuries resulting from roof-related falls, offering a comparison to existing research.

"Human Rights in Nigerian Correctional Institutions: The Place of Social Workers"

Issues on human rights especially in correctional institutions have become the focus of international programs, policy makers, the general populace, researchers and conferences aimed at ensuring effective monitoring of its abuses. Human rights protect the essential attributes of human beings: needs, capacities and interests that if guaranteed respect their dignity as persons and if violated results in lives of desperation and diminishment. This study examines human rights in Nigeria correctional institutions. It also identified the roles of social workers in challenging injustice and ensuring that the rights of offenders are upheld. Worried by the state of human rights in our correctional institutions, the paper attempts to investigate the inmates’ rights, human rights and correctional practices and seeks to proffer ways by which social workers can enhance human rights in correctional institutions. Secondary source of data collection was utilized in the study. Documents from international and national agencies as well as textbooks and journal articles were employed. Furthermore, the paper recommends creation of awareness on the services of social workers in enhancing human rights in correctional institutions.

Future Projections of Heat Waves and Associated Mortality Risk in a Coastal Mediterranean City

Climate change has been linked to the escalating frequency, duration, and intensity of heat waves in the Mediterranean region, intensifying health concerns for the general populace. Urban environments face elevated health risks due to concentrated populations and the urban heat island effect, further amplifying nighttime heat conditions. This study aims to project changes in heat wave characteristics and the associated population exposure risk in a large Mediterranean city, Thessaloniki, Greece. High-resolution climate simulations, using the WRF model, were conducted for three 5-year periods (2006–2010, 2046–2050, 2096–2100) under the RCP8.5 emission scenario, covering Thessaloniki with a 2 km grid. By the end of the century, Thessaloniki is projected to experience over 60 annual heat wave days, compared to ~8 in the present climate, while some episodes were found to persist beyond 30 days. The relative risk during heat wave days is expected to rise, which is primarily due to nighttime heat stress. Interestingly, the results indicate that minimum apparent temperature might be a more reliable indicator in predicting heat-related mortality compared to maximum apparent temperature. These findings emphasize the growing importance of informed heat mitigation and adaptation strategies and healthcare preparedness in urban areas facing escalating heat-related health challenges.

Conceptualizing and Validating the Trustworthiness of Maps through an Empirical Study on the Influence of Cultural Background on Map Design Perception

Maps are the culmination of numerous choices, with many offering multiple alternatives. Not all of these choices are inherently guided by default, clarity, or universally accepted best practices, guidelines, or recommendations. In the realm of cartography, it is a distinct feature that individual decisions can be made, particularly regarding data preparation and selection and design aspects. As each map is a product of a multitude of decisions, the confidence we place in maps hinges on the reasonableness of these decisions. The trustworthiness of maps depends on whether these decisions are sound, unquestioned, readily accessible, and supported by dependable groups of decision makers whose reliability can be assessed based on their track record as an institution, reputation, and competence. The advent of user-friendly map-making software and data manipulation tools has placed some of these decisions in the hands of the general populace and those interested in using maps to convey specific agendas. This mirrors other forms of communication and has given rise to a growing discourse on “fake news”, “fake media”, and “fake maps”, ultimately prompting us to question how we can trust the information being conveyed and how we can differentiate between “fake” and “trustworthy” maps. This paper highlights the fundamental aspects determined by the pure nature of cartographic modeling, which influences every attempt to understand, analyze, and express the context and trustworthiness of maps. It then identifies fundamental aspects of trustworthiness with respect to maps. Combining these two fundamental considerations represents an epistemological attempt to identify a research portfolio. An example of an empirical study on identifying selected aspects of this portfolio demonstrates the potential of gaining a better understanding of the context given.

Review Artikel: Tanaman Gaharu (Aquilaria malaccensis L.) sebagai Antioksidan

Indonesia is renowned for the variety of its plant life. Although poorly managed, Indonesia is a mega-biodiversity nation with a wealth of medicinal plants and significant development potential. Owned natural resources have benefited people's everyday lives in addition to being used as food and traditional medicine. Gaharu is a type of biodiversity that has the potential to be used in traditional medicine. Aquilaria agaloccha Rox, a member of the Thymeliaceae family, is the source of gaharu, however it can also be found in plants from the Leguminoceae and Euphorbiaceae families. The general populace believes that gaharu leaves can decrease blood pressure and act as an antioxidant. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) technique is the research methodology utilized in literature review articles. Publish or Perish, (2010-2023), is the text that was utilized. Gaharu (Aquilaria malaccensis L.) is a plant that may create secondary metabolites in the form of phenols, terpenoids, flavonoids, glycosides, tannins, and steroids/triterpenoids, all of which are potent antioxidants, according to the findings of a literature study.

Empowering Community Health Workers in Japan: Determinants of Non-Communicable Disease Prevention Competency

Background: Community health workers (CHWs), hailing from the general populace, play a pivotal role in fortifying healthcare systems, with a primary focus on mitigating non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and elevating overall life expectancy. To assess the aptitude of CHWs in NCD prevention, we introduced the Community Health Workers Perceptual and Behavioral Competency Scale for preventing non-communicable diseases (COCS-N). This study examines the multifaceted interplay of individual and community factors that influence CHWs’ COCS-N scores. Methods: The research design is a secondary analysis using data from a self-administered questionnaire survey of 6480 CHWs residing in municipalities across Japan, which obtained 3120 valid responses, between September to November 2020. The COCS-N was employed as the dependent variable, while the independent variables were individual-related factors, including years of community health work, health literacy, and community-related factors, such as CHWs’ sense of community. To ascertain the significance of associations between individual and community factors and CHWs’ competency, an analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) was utilized to compare the three groups Q1/Q2/Q3 by low, medium, and high scores on the COCS-N scale. Statistical significance was considered to be indicated by a p-value of less than 0.05. Results: The ANCOVA analysis revealed that three factors were significantly linked to CHWs’ competence. These comprised individual factors: “years of CHWs” (mean ± SD Q1: 6.0 ± 6.0, Q2: 7.8 ± 7.0, Q3: 8.2 ± 7.7, p &lt; 0.001) and “health literacy” (Q1: 27.7 ± 6.6, Q2: 30.4 ± 6.9, Q3: 33.8 ± 7.8, p &lt; 0.001), as well as a community factor: “Sense of community” (Q1: 14.8 ± 3.7, Q2: 16.5 ± 3.5, Q3: 18.2 ± 3.6, p &lt; 0.001). Conclusions: Our finding is that a positive association was derived between COCS-N scores and certain determinants. Notably, “years of CHWs” and “health literacy” in the individual domain, along with the “Sense of community” in the communal context, were firmly established as being significantly associated with CHWs’ competency. Consequently, CHWs need training to increase their “health literacy” and “sense of community”, to acquire high competency in NCD prevention, which will lead to the empowerment of CHWs and maintain their motivation to continue.

Effect 0f Deficit Budget Financing Sources on Inflation Rate in Nigeria

The study examined the effect of deficit budget financing sources on inflation rate in Nigeria. External debt, Ways and Means Advances, and Treasury Bills were the independent variables of the study, while inflation rate was the dependent variable. The study adopted an ex-post-facto research design, covering the period between 2011 and 2020. Secondary data were extracted from the Central Bank of Nigeria Statistical Bulletin. Ordinary Least Square multiple regression technique was used for the data analysis. In line with the specific objectives of the study which is to ascertain the effect of external debt, ways and means advances, and treasury bills on inflation rate in Nigeria, it was revealed that external debt and treasury bills have a significant effect on inflation rate in Nigeria. Ways and means advances have a positive and significant effect on inflation rate in Nigeria. This implies that among the explanatory variables, ways and means advances is the major determinant of inflation rate in Nigeria. The study recommended therefore that government policies on inflation rate should factor in external debts because of their negative effect on inflation rate. external borrowing should be prudently used in productive activities that can raise investments, reduced inflation and improve the country's exchange rate. The Government should drastically reduce the rate they borrow from CBN. Any of such borrowing should be targeted towards developing the economy and they should always maintain the credit limit set by the CBN. The government should reduce the number of treasury bills issued to the general populace. Other sources of deficit budget funding, such as privatization of obsolete government institutions, should be considered by the government.

Behavioral verification and risk factors of HIV cross-population transmission in China: analysis of national surveillance data 1989–2022

IntroductionThe dynamic HIV/AIDS epidemic significantly impacts China, particularly affecting injection drug users (IDUs), former plasma donors (FPDs), men who have sex with men (MSM), and those engaging in high-risk heterosexual behavior (HRHB). This study specifically focuses on identifying the risk factors and influences that drive the spread of HIV among these population groups by performing a comprehensive analysis of contact histories of individuals diagnosed with HIV.MethodsData for this research were gathered from China’s HIV/AIDS Comprehensive Response Information Management System (CRIMS). Contact histories were described using bar and venn diagram. Trend in engaging in HBRB among MSM were identify potential change using the Cochran-Armitage test. Logistic regression was employed to analyze the factors influencing HBRB in MSM.ResultsFrom 1989 through to 2022, a total of 1,457,218 individuals aged 15 years or older in China, who reported being infected with HIV, indicated they had one or more types of contact histories including injecting drug use, male homosexual behavior, commercial plasma donation, and high-risk heterosexual behavior. Among these, 97.0% reported a single type of contact history, while 3.0% reported having multiple contact histories. Of those with multiple contact histories, 98.0% (42,258 individuals) had engaged in HRHB. Among all HIV-infected IDUs, MSM, and FPDs, their respective proportions of engagement in HRHB were 11.8%, 5.7% and 6.2%. Prior to 2012, most were reported to be IDUs; however, subsequent to this, most reported being MSM. Factors that heightened the risk of engaging in HRHB among HIV-infected MSM included being of age between 25–34 years [adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 1.29] or 35–44 years (AOR = 1.22), marital status such as being married (AOR = 1.23) or being divorced/widowed (AOR = 1.17), belonging to an ethnic minority (AOR = 1.29), receiving diagnosis in hospitals (AOR = 1.81), residing in rural areas (AOR = 1.12), among others. However, the risk of HRHB decreased when age ≥ 55 years (55–64 years: AOR = 0.82; ≥ 65 years: AOR = 0.64).ConclusionThe potential for HIV transmission among diverse populations is substantial. As such, it is imperative that strategies are implemented to mitigate the propagation of HIV to the general populace via heterosexual intercourse.

The The Significance of the Early Buddhism Behind The Advancement Of the Academics In India

The Indian culture and social structure are like the most exceptional ones that have ever developed in every continent. The uniqueness of this rests in its simultaneous embodiment of both old and contemporary qualities. It is a nation that encompasses adherents of all the prominent global faiths, including Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, Christianity, Judaism, Islam, and Zoroastrianism. Each of these factors exert a variable amount of effect on Indian society. Education and perfection are interconnected. Proper education is an essential prerequisite for the existence of any culture. India possesses a centuries-old system of education that is unique to its society. Throughout history, the concept of education in India has emphasised the development of a person's personality. Traditional Indian education spanned for numerous centuries, resulting in the existence of various schools during distinct time periods. The Buddhist philosophy is regarded to be one of the most esteemed ancient Indian ideologies, encompassing a multitude of beneficial principles such as religious, moral, instructive, electoral, and financial utilities. These principles hold great significance in promoting the well-being of humanity. Within the diverse range of values in Buddhism, there is a strong emphasis on the significance for learning and moral standards. Educational values in Buddhism refer to the principles which are implemented by the Buddhist System of Education in its instructional and learning methods. On the other hand, ethical principles in Buddhism pertain to moral principles advocated by Buddhist philosophy to regulate an individual's thoughts and behavior. The aim of this paper is to explore the ethical and pedagogical tenets embraced by the early adherents of Buddhism, and explore the impact of Buddhist philosophy on the education, monastic communities, and the general populace and society in ancient India.

Machine Learning Based Customized Solution for Deafness and Mute People

Individuals with hearing or speech impairments often possess a higher degree of familiarity with sign language due to its widespread usage. Consequently, a noticeable communication divide exists between those with such impairments and the general populace. A pivotal solution in bridging this gap involves employing human sign language interpreters. Regrettably, the scarcity of sign language interpreters worldwide in comparison to the number of individuals with hearing or speech impairments has resulted in certain individuals being unable to bear the cost of a human interpreter each time they engage in conversation. To address this issue, it is imperative to automate communication in a manner that liberates the deaf community from dependence on human translators. This article centers on the development of an application capable of real-time conversion between American Sign Language and text, along with supplementary functionalities aimed at dismantling the communication barriers faced by individuals with hearing or speech challenges when interacting with the broader public. the primary objective of this application is to accurately perceive and interpret the user's sign language. The initial stage involves training the system to recognize and interpret signs utilizing algorithms for object recognition and motion tracking. For this purpose, a convolutional neural network model was trained employing a meticulously curated American Sign Language dataset. Subsequently, the recognized signs are translated into English, forming grammatically sound words. Incorporated within the system are a language translator and a virtual sign keyboard, augmenting its capabilities. Moreover, a text-to-text transformer, structured on an encoder-decoder framework, is harnessed to identify grammatical inaccuracies and generate coherent phrases. For a comprehensive understanding of the process, detailed elaboration will follow in subsequent sections.

Evaluating internet access and information needs in different age cohorts

The digital divide remains a notable hurdle to equitable development, with rural communities in particular, where there are high tendencies for poor access to information and communication technology (ICT). This study examines the availability and utilization of free internet services, the satisfaction of information needs, and the engagement with online information services across three age groups 15-19, 20-29, and 30-49 in Ulemon community in Edo state, Nigeria. Utilizing a structured survey and data analysis conducted via Microsoft Power BI (Business Intelligence), the research reveals critical disparities in digital access and usage. The results indicate that the 20-29 age group has the highest access to free internet at 60%, the highest utilization rate at 40%, the greatest satisfaction with their information needs at 55%, and the highest usage of online information services at 75%. These findings point out the urgency in the need for designated interventions to enhance digital inclusion in rural areas. Recommended actions include expanding broadband infrastructure, implementing subsidized internet plans, enhancing digital literacy through educational programs, and developing locally relevant online content. In conclusion, addressing the digital divide in rural communities is essential for promoting inclusive growth, improving access to education and healthcare, and empowering individuals to participate fully in the digital economy. This study provides valuable insights and actionable strategies to guide efforts toward achieving these objectives and to ensure that the general populace is included in the digital age.