Ratio Values Research Articles

CBR Mapping Prediction from 2D Resistivity Imaging Using Regression Following Archie’s Formula

Indirect geophysical methods are increasingly associated with direct underground methods in investigating the subsurface to address environmental and geotechnical problems and reduce the cost of underground studies. These methods make it possible to explore large areas with acceptable precision, time, and cost. The present study combines the electrical resistivity method with the California Bearing Ratio for exploring an area located west of the Nouakchott port in Mauritania. The study aims firstly to verify that the thickness of the backfill layer must be less than 2 m throughout the entire study area and secondly to map areas with low California Bearing Ratio values (<80%) indicating substandard backfill compaction using 2D Electrical Resistivity Tomography imaging survey and regression. The measured Electrical Resistivity values exhibit a good nonlinear regression with California Bearing Ratio, following Archie's equation. A map of California Bearing Ratio variation was derived from the Electrical Resistivity values, indicating the distribution and variation of soil strength in the study area. The results revealed that the backfill layer did not meet the standards, with approximately 35% of the total area having a California Bearing Ratio value below 80%. The areas with poor compaction requiring treatment were primarily located in the southern sector, followed by the middle and eastern sectors.

THE ADDED VALUE AND PROFIT ANALYSIS OF CITRONELLA ESSENTIAL AND AROMATHERAPY OIL INKPH REGION XIII LAKITAN-BUKIT COGONG

<p>The processing of citronella into essential oil will result in added value to the citronella. KPH Region XIII Lakitan-Bukit Cogong also utilizes the opportunities available by making derivative products of citronella essential oil as a base for making aromatherapy oil. The purpose of this study was to find out how much profit is obtained and to analyze the added value of citronella essential and aromatherapy oil agroindustry in KPH Region XIII Lakitan-Bukit Cogong. The method used in this study are profit analysis and the calculation of added value using Hayami Modification Method. The results obtained in this study were the amount of profit obtained from the agroindustry of citronella essential and aromatherapy oils is 115,285,050 IDR. The added value ratio by processing citronella into citronella essential oil was 41,20% and by processing of citronella into aromatherapy oil was 72.14%. Both of these value-added ratios exceed 40% and were included in the high category.</p>

Mammographically detected breast clustered microcalcifications localized by chest thin-section computed tomography

BackgroundTo explore the capability and clinical significance of chest thin-section computed tomography (CT) for localization of mammographically detected clustered microcalcifications.MethodsA total of 69 patients with 71 mammographically detected clustered microcalcifications received surgical biopsy under the guidance of mammography (MG), CT was used to localize calcifications combined with MG if calcifications can be seen on CT. Intraoperative mammography of the specimens were performed in all cases for identification of the resected microcalcifications. The clinical, imaging and pathological information of these patients were analyzed.ResultsA total of 42 (59.15%) cases of calcifications were localized by CT + MG, 29 (40.85%) cases were guided only by the mammography. All suspicious calcifications on the mammography were successfully removed. Pathological results showed 42 cases were cancer, 23 cases were benign, and 6 cases were atypical hyperplasia. The mean age in the CT + MG group was older than that of the MG group (54.12 vs. 49.27 years; P = 0.014). The maximum diameter of clusters of microcalcifications on mammography in the CT + MG group was larger than that of the MG group [(cranio-caudal view, 1.52 vs. 0.61 mm, P = 0.000; mediolateral oblique (MLO) view, 1.53 vs. 0.62 mm, P = 0.000)]. The gray value ratio (calcified area / paraglandular; MLO, P = 0.004) and the gray value difference (calcified area - paraglandular; MLO, P = 0.005) in the CT + MG group was higher than that of the MG group. Multivariate analysis showed that the max diameter of clusters of microcalcifications (MLO view) was a significant predictive factor of localization by CT in total patients (P = 0.001).ConclusionsAbout half of the mammographically detected clustered microcalcifications could be localized by thin-section CT. Maximum diameter of clusters of microcalcifications (MLO view) was a predictor of visibility of calcifications by CT. Chest thin-section CT may be useful for localization of calcifications in some patients, especially for calcifications that are only visible in one view on the mammography.

The prognostic value of the stress hyperglycemia ratio for all-cause and cardiovascular mortality in patients with diabetes or prediabetes: insights from NHANES 2005–2018

BackgroundThe Stress hyperglycemia ratio (SHR) is a novel marker reflecting the true acute hyperglycemia status and is associated with clinical adverse events. The relationship between SHR and mortality in patients with diabetes or prediabetes is still unclear. This study aimed to investigate the predictive value of the SHR for all-cause and cardiovascular mortality in patients with diabetes or prediabetes.MethodsThis study included 11,160 patients diagnosed with diabetes or prediabetes from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2005–2018). The study endpoints were all-cause and cardiovascular mortality, and morality data were extracted from the National Death Index (NDI) up to December 31, 2019. Patients were divided into SHR quartiles. Cox proportion hazards regression was applied to determine the prognostic value of SHR. Model 1 was not adjusted for any covariates. Model 2 was adjusted for age, sex, and race. Model 3 was adjusted for age, sex, race, BMI, smoking status, alcohol use, hypertension, CHD, CKD, anemia, and TG.ResultsDuring a mean follow-up of 84.9 months, a total of 1538 all-cause deaths and 410 cardiovascular deaths were recorded. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis showed the lowest all-cause mortality incidence was in quartile 3 (P < 0.001). Multivariate Cox regression analyses indicated that, compared to the 1st quartile, the 4th quartile was associated with higher all-cause mortality (model 1: HR = 0.89, 95% CI 0.74–10.7, P = 0.226; model 2: HR = 1.24, 95% CI 1.03-1.49, P = 0.026; model 3: HR = 1.30, 95% CI 1.08–1.57, P = 0.006). The 3rd quartile was associated with lower cardiovascular mortality than quartile 1 (model 1: HR = 0.47, 95% CI 0.32–0.69, P < 0.001; model 2: HR = 0.66, 95% CI 0.45–0.96, P = 0.032; model 3: HR = 0.68, 95% CI 0.46–0.99, P = 0.049). There was a U-shaped association between SHR and all-cause mortality and an L-shaped association between SHR and cardiovascular mortality, with inflection points of SHR for poor prognosis of 0.87 and 0.93, respectively.ConclusionSHR is related to all-cause and cardiovascular mortality in patients with diabetes or prediabetes. SHR may have predictive value in those patients.

Research on correlation between dynamic resilient modulus and CBR of coarse-grained chlorine saline soil

A large area of coarse-grained saline soil is distributed in saline soil areas, and chlorine saline soil with a high salt content is a typical representative. The dynamic resilient modulus was accurately predicted using the California-bearing ratio (CBR) value to determine the relationship between the dynamic resilient modulus of coarse-grained chloride saline soil and its CBR value. Indoor dynamic triaxial tests and CBR tests were conducted to investigate the evolution of the dynamic resilient modulus (MR) and CBR of coarse-grained chlorine saline soil under the influence of the stress level, water content, and salt content. The test results showed that the dynamic resilient modulus increased with an increase in the confining pressure and bulk stress and decreased as the deviator stress increased; however, the CBR increased with an increase in the corresponding unit pressure. The higher the salt and water contents, the more obvious the influence of stress on the dynamic resilient modulus and CBR value. Under the same stress level, the decrease in the dynamic resilient modulus and CBR gradually increased with increasing salt and moisture content, and the effect of salt tended to be more significant than that of water. Based on the correlation between the dynamic resilient modulus and CBR revealed by the experiment, a more widely applicable model was selected from the existing theoretical models related to CBR for the regression analysis of the test data, and a prediction model of the dynamic resilient modulus based on the CBR value was proposed (MR = 21.06CBR0.52). This prediction model had a high correlation coefficient (R2 = 0.893) and could effectively predict the dynamic resilient modulus of coarse-grained chlorine saline soil using CBR values. The results provide a simple and reliable method for determining the design parameters of a coarse-grained saline soil subgrade.

Ensemble projections of climate and streamflow in a typical basin of semi-arid steppes in Mongolian Plateau of 2021–2100

The Kherlen River is the main water source for Hulun Lake, the largest lake in northern China. Due to reduced inflow from the Kherlen River, Hulun Lake experienced rapid shrinkage at the beginning of the 21st century, posing a serious threat to the ecological security of northern China. However, there is still a significant lack of projections regarding future climate change and its hydrological response in the Kherlen River basin. This study analyzed the projected climate and streamflow changes in the Kherlen River basin, a vital yet vulnerable international semi-arid steppes type basin. A combination of multi-model ensemble projection techniques, and the soil and water assessment tool (SWAT) model was employed to examine the spatio‒temporal changes in precipitation, temperature, streamflow, and the associated uncertainties in the basin. The temperature (an increase of 1.84–6.42 °C) and the precipitation (an increase of 15.0–46.0 mm) of Kherlen River basin are projected to increase by 2100, leading to a rise in streamflow (1.08–4.78 m3 s−1). The upstream of the Kherlen River exhibits remarkable increasing trends in precipitation, which has a dominant influence on streamflow of Kherlen River. Noteworthy increases in streamflow are observed in April, August, September, and October compared to the reference period (1971–2000). These findings suggest a partial alleviation of water scarcity in the Kherlen River, but also an increased likelihood of hydrological extreme events. The projected temperature increase in the Kherlen River basin exhibits the smallest uncertainty, while more pronounced uncertainties are found in precipitation and streamflow. The spread among the results of CMIP6 models is greater than that of CMIP5 models, with lower signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) values for temperature, precipitation, and streamflow.

Critical analysis of the energy and exergy performance of an air heater duct with perforated 60-degree V-down baffles affixed to the heated surface

The indirect-mode solar dryer, with a solar air heater as a vital component, is commonly preferred for enhancing agricultural product quality. Energy and exergy analyses for an air heating system assess thermal gain and irreversibility in energy conversion. According to the literature, the easiest way to enhance the SAH’s energy and exergy performance is by incorporating flow-modifying elements or turbulators in the air passage. And the effective-energy assessment accounts for the increased airflow pumping power demands. This work aims to experimentally compare the energy and exergy performance of a smooth air heater duct with one integrated with perforated V-shaped baffles while critically examining the factors leading to the efficiency variations. The racetrack-shaped perforated V-baffles with 60-degree air attack angles are installed on the heated surface with V-down and staggered hole arrays, covering a turbulent flow Reynolds number (Re) range of 5400–13,100 during experimentation. The investigation involves varying the pitch-to-duct depth ratio (p/H) of baffles (with values of 1, 2 and 3) and considering two different hole-aspect ratio (w/d) values of 5.04 and 2.68, with the same open area ratio. The results reveal that baffles with w/d of 2.68 at p/H of 3, causing enhanced airflow turbulence and momentum diffusivity, provide the highest effective-energy ([Formula: see text]) and exergy ([Formula: see text]) efficiencies values of 88.7% and 12.44%, respectively, at Re of 11,816 and 8765. Based on the operating and geometrical parameters used in the experiments, the correlations of [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] developed demonstrate good accuracy. The values for mean absolute error, root mean squared error and R 2 (coefficient of determination) in the correlations, developed using the statistical computing R software, are 0.012427, 0.014837 and 0.9913 for [Formula: see text] and 0.004332, 0.005047 and 0.9557 for [Formula: see text], respectively.

Long-term ozone exposure and mortality in patients with chronic kidney disease: a large cohort study

BackgroundEpidemiologic studies on the effects of long-term exposure to ozone (O3) have shown inconclusive results. It is unclear whether to O3 has an effect on chronic kidney disease (CKD). We investigated the effects of O3 on mortality and renal outcome in CKD.MethodsWe included 61,073 participants and applied Cox proportional hazards models to examine the effects of ozone on the risk of end-stage renal disease (ESRD) and mortality in a two-pollutants model adjusted for socioeconomic status. We calculated the concentration of ozone exposure one year before enrollment and used inverse distance weighting (IDW) for interpolation, where the exposure was evenly distributed.ResultsIn the single pollutant model, O3 was significantly associated with an increased risk of ESRD and all-cause mortality. Based on the O3 concentration from IDW interpolation, this moving O3 average was significantly associated with an increased risk of ESRD and all-cause mortality. In a two-pollutants model, even after we adjusted for other measured pollutants, nitrogen dioxide did not attenuate the result for O3. The hazard ratio (HR) value for the district-level assessment is 1.025 with a 95% confidence interval (CI) of 1.014–1.035, while for the point-level assessment, the HR value is 1.04 with a 95% CI of 1.035–1.045. The impact of ozone on ESRD, hazard ratio (HR) values are, 1.049(95%CI: 1.044–1.054) at the district unit and 1.04 (95%CI: 1.031–1.05) at the individual address of the exposure assessment. The ozone hazard ratio for all-cause mortality was 1.012 (95% confidence interval: 1.008–1.017) for administrative districts and 1.04 (95% confidence interval: 1.031–1.05) for individual addresses.ConclusionsThis study suggests that long-term ambient O3 increases the risk of ESRD and mortality in CKD. The strategy to decrease O3 emissions will substantially benefit health and the environment.

Multi-channel magnetic resonance spectroscopy graphical user interface (McMRSGUI).

This work introduces an open-sourced graphical user interface (GUI) software enabling the combination of multi-channel magnetic resonance spectroscopy data with different literature-based methods for the improvement of the quality and reliability of combined spectra. The multi-channel magnetic resonance spectroscopy graphical user interface (McMRSGUI) is a MATLAB-based spectroscopy processing GUI equipped to load multi-channel MRS data, pre-process, combine, and export combined data for evaluation with open-source quantification software (jMRUI). A literature-based, decision-tree process was incorporated into the combination type selection to serve as a guide to minimize spectral distortion in selecting between weighting methods. Multi-channel, simulated spectra were combined with the different combination techniques and evaluated for spectral distortion to validate the code. The incorporation of the combination methods into a single processing software enables multi-channel magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) data to be combined and compared for improved spectral quality with little user knowledge of combination techniques. Through the spectral peak distortion simulation of the combination methods, combined signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) values from the literature were verified. The spectral peak distortion simulation provides a secondary tool for researchers to estimate the spectral SNR levels when spectral distortion could occur and use this knowledge to further guide the selection of their combination technique. The McMRSGUI provides a software toolkit for evaluating multi-channel MRS data and their combination. Simulations evaluating spectral distortion at different noise levels were performed for each combination method to validate the GUI and demonstrate a method for researchers to assess the combined SNR levels at which they could be introducing spectral distortion.

Active tectonics along the mountain front around the easternmost part of the Himalayan Range: Implications for geomorphic evolution

The frontal part of the easternmost zone of the Himalayas is tectonically active, which can be ascertained from different quaternary deformation features like tilted terraces, differential upliftment of terraces, and steep scarps. Along the mountain front, four and three levels of terraces are present on the right and left bank of the Siang River respectively with a maximum elevation of 303 m. Different levels of Quaternary terraces indicate episodic upliftment of the area. On the left bank of the Siang River, 300 m upstream from Dhobighat, the terrace deposits are present at an elevation of 150 m above the Siwalik Group, and 100 m downstream, tilted quaternary deposits are observed. Steep scarps near Mairam, indicate the presence of Himalayan Frontal Thrust (HFT), and based on convincing field evidence, HFT can be categorized into HFT-1 and HFT-2. Total eighteen basins are mapped which are elongated and aligned along the NW-SE direction, parallel to the trend of cross faults present in the area along the Siang River course. The mountain front sinuosity index, SL value, and elongation ratio reflect further that the area is tectonically active. Furthermore, the asymmetry factor and transverse topographic symmetry factor illustrate that all the basins are asymmetric and tilted. Most of the valley profiles are V-shaped, and the valley floor width-to-height ratio is low, indicating rapid upliftment of the area. Lineament maps show a similar trend of the orientation with the major structural features of the area and further, confirm that the area is tectonically active.

A comprehensive analysis of albuminuria in canine chronic kidney disease.

Albuminuria, an important marker of decreased kidney function in chronic kidney disease (CKD), is not routinely used for CKD detection or proteinuria appearance. Its relationships with biochemical parameters and blood pressure in dogs are poorly understood. This study aimed to evaluate the relationship of albuminuria with various CKD markers, its correlation with the urinary protein to creatinine ratio (UPC), and hypertension in dogs with early stages of CKD. It also sought to determine the usability of the urinary albumin to creatinine ratio (UAC) for CKD screening. The study reviewed records of 102 dogs, categorising them into four groups based on disease status. UAC and UPC ratio, biochemistry and haematology variables, age, and systolic blood pressure were determined. The Pearson's correlation coefficient between log-transformed values of UPC and UAC was r = 0.902 (95% CI: 0.87 to 0.93). Median UAC ratio values were 2.1mg/g for the Healthy control group (n = 17), 54.2mg/g for early stages CKD (n = 42), 5.8mg/g for Acute sick control (n = 30), and 104mg/g for Chronic sick control (n = 13). Thresholding UAC ratio as an indicator for impaired kidney function with the threshold of 10mg/g (established based on the receiver operating characteristic curve) had a sensitivity 81.8%, specificity of 89.4%, positive predictive value (PPV) 90%, and negative predictive value (NPV) 80.1%. The correlation of UAC with biochemistry and haematology variables was statistically significant; for SDMA (μg/L), it was r = 0.566 and for other variables, it was weak to moderate. UAC was markedly elevated in cases of severe hypertension. UAC ratio was significantly different among dogs with impaired and not impaired kidney function. The correlation strength for the UAC and UPC ratios was high. UAC ratio may be a promising marker for proteinuria analysis in dogs with CKD or other kidney function alterations.

Mechanical and Optical Characterization of Single-shade Resin Composites Used in Posterior Teeth.

This study aimed to evaluate the optical and mechanical performance of two single-shade resin-based composites (RBCs) compared to those of a conventional RBC for restoring posterior teeth. Two single-shade RBCs, Omnichroma (Tukoyama) and Vittra Unique APS (FGM), and a conventional RBC, Filtek Z350XT shade A2 (3M Oral Care), were evaluated in this study. The optical shade-matching performance was measured using a spectrophotometer. The light emitted by VALO Grand (Ultradent) and transmitted through the 2.0-mm RBC specimens was evaluated using beam profiling. Knoop hardness (KH, N/mm2), degree of conversion (DC, %) at the top and bottom, flexural strength (FS, MPa), elastic modulus (E, GPa), postgel shrinkage (Shr, %), and shrinkage stress (MPa) were evaluated. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to characterize the filler. Data for FS, E, and Shr were analyzed by one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and KH and DC by repeated one-way ANOVA measurement followed by Tukey test (α=0.05). The modified von Mises stress values, light transmission, and SEM images were analyzed qualitatively. All single-shade RBCs exhibited higher chromatic adaptation than the Filtek Z350XT (p<0.001). Omnichroma exhibited less color difference than Vittra Unique APS, irrespective of the shade. The light transmitted through Omnichroma and Vittra Unique APS increased during polymerization. KH and DC values were significantly reduced from the top to the bottom of the specimens for all RBCs (p<0.001); however, the ratio values were always higher than 80%. In general, all RBCs demonstrated similar mechanical properties. All RBCs exhibited a similar FS (p=0.083) and Shr value (p=0.144). Filtek Z350XT exhibited significantly higher E (p<0.001) than both single-shade RBCs. All RBCs exhibited similar shrinkage stress during restoration and similar residual stress during occlusal loading. Single-shade Omnichroma and Vittra Unique APS increased light transmission during light-activation, demonstrating better chromatic adaptation than conventional Filtek Z350XT. In general, Omnichroma and Vittra Unique APS exhibited similar mechanical properties and shrinkage stress distributions as Filtek Z350XT during light-activation and occlusal loading.

Exploring the potential of strontium oxide-enriched borate bioactive glass as a bone graft material: Comprehensive analysis of physical characteristics and gamma shielding properties

This study explores the physical, elastic, and radiation shielding properties of SrO–B2O3 -based bioactive glass systems. The interest in BAG has grown significantly in recent years due to their applications in biomedicine, including bone transplants, wound care, and dental treatments. Borate-based glass matrices have emerged as a promising alternative to silicate-based BAG, exhibiting faster conversion to hydroxyapatite (HA) in physiological fluids and promoting cell proliferation for bone healing. The procedure known as melt quenching is used to prepare the glasses. The effects of varying SrO content on the glass properties were evaluated to understand their potential applications in the field of radiation shielding. Experimental results were compared with theoretical models, including the Makishima, Mackenzie, and Rocherulle models, to determine the most appropriate model for analyzing the elastic properties. The Rocherulle model was found to be in better agreement with experimental results. It was observed that the elastic modulus increased with increasing SrO content, suggesting improved mechanical strength due to higher cross-link density in the glass network. Furthermore, the glasses exhibited low Poisson's ratio values, indicating increased resistance to deformation under stress. The Phy-X program was used to determine the mass attenuation coefficient (GMAC), which is the fundamental parameter for evaluating the interaction of radiation with shielding materials. The GMAC results increase as the amount of SrO is increased from 0 to 6 wt%. In addition, the findings demonstrated that the effective atomic number (Zeff) of the produced glasses rise when the amount of SrO is increased from 0 to 6 wt%. The comprehensive analysis of physical, elastic, and radiation shielding properties provides valuable insights into the optimization of glass systems for specific applications in industries that require mechanical strength and radiation protection.

Permutation Entropy Does Not Track the Electroencephalogram-Related Manifestations of Paradoxical Excitation During Propofol-Induced Loss of Responsiveness: Results From a Prospective Observational Cohort Study.

During the anesthetic-induced loss of responsiveness (LOR), a "paradoxical excitation" with activation of β-frequencies in the electroencephalogram (EEG) can be observed. Thus, spectral parameters-as widely used in commercial anesthesia monitoring devices-may mistakenly indicate that patients are awake when they are actually losing responsiveness. Nonlinear time-domain parameters such as permutation entropy (PeEn) may analyze additional EEG information and appropriately reflect the change in cognitive state during the transition. Determining which parameters correctly track the level of anesthesia is essential for designing monitoring algorithms but may also give valuable insight regarding the signal characteristics during state transitions. EEG data from 60 patients who underwent general anesthesia were extracted and analyzed around LOR. We derived the following information from the power spectrum: (i) spectral band power, (ii) the spectral edge frequency as well as 2 parameters known to be incorporated in monitoring systems, (iii) beta ratio, and (iv) spectral entropy. We also calculated (v) PeEn as a time-domain parameter. We used Friedman's test and Bonferroni correction to track how the parameters change over time and the area under the receiver operating curve to separate the power spectra between time points. Within our patient collective, we observed a "paradoxical excitation" around the time of LOR as indicated by increasing beta-band power. Spectral edge frequency and spectral entropy values increased from 19.78 [10.25-34.18] Hz to 25.39 [22.46-30.27] Hz (P = .0122) and from 0.61 [0.54-0.75] to 0.77 [0.64-0.81] (P < .0001), respectively, before LOR, indicating a (paradoxically) higher level of high-frequency activity. PeEn and beta ratio values decrease from 0.78 [0.77-0.82] to 0.76 [0.73-0.81] (P < .0001) and from -0.74 [-1.14 to -0.09] to -2.58 [-2.83 to -1.77] (P < .0001), respectively, better reflecting the state transition into anesthesia. PeEn and beta ratio seem suitable parameters to monitor the state transition during anesthesia induction. The decreasing PeEn values suggest a reduction of signal complexity and information content, which may very well describe the clinical situation at LOR. The beta ratio mainly focuses on the loss of power in the gamma-band. PeEn, in particular, may present a single parameter capable of tracking the LOR transition without being affected by paradoxical excitation.

HCG Oranı Preeklempsiyi Predikte Edermi?

Objective: To predict preeclampsia by the ratio of the HCG MoM value in the first and second trimester screening tests.&#x0D; Material and Methods: The HCG-MoM values of 136 pregnant women with preeclampsia and 222 normatensive pregnant women used for first and second-trimester screening tests were proportioned , and the difference between the groups was examined. Numeric variables are expressed as mean ± standard deviation, median (minimum – maximum), and categorical variables as n (%).&#x0D; Results: HCG MoM values were not different between the two groups and were within the accepted international values. The ratio of the free HCG MoM value in the first trimester to the intact HCG MoM value in the second trimester was significantly higher in the control group (1.06) than in the study group (0.99) (p=0.02). &#x0D; Conclusion: Rating the MoM values of β-HCG, a biochemical marker used in screening tests for chromosomal anomaly, may predict preeclampsia in the later weeks of pregnancy.

Studying the relation between efficiency and profitability in the non-life insurance market

Previous literature on business performance in the insurance market tends to focus only on efficiency or profitability. However, the relationship between both has yet to be addressed in the Spanish insurance market. This paper examines the relationship between efficiency scores obtained through a two-stage DEA and the values of the classical financial ratios (ROE, ROA, Technical Ratio, Combined Ratio and Loss Ratio). We use a sample of 111 firms from the non-life Spanish insurance market from 2008-2017. We find a positive relationship between efficiency and profitability, which shows decreasing returns, with the positive effect of efficiency on profit ratios being lower for the most efficient companies.

Results of biosimilar assessing of insulin aspart preparations of Russian and foreign production using the hyperinsulinemic euglycemic clamp method and studying the use of a new ultra-fast-acting Russian biosimilar in pumps

Introduction. Ultra-fast-acting insulin aspart has great potential for improving postprandial glycemia in patients with type 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus due to its pharmacological characteristics. The development and production of biosimilars are increasing the availability of modern insulins for patients.Aim. To evaluate the comparability of the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics profiles of insulin aspart GP40311 (tested biosimilar of domestic production) and the reference drug (produced in Denmark) under conditions of a hyperinsulinemic euglycemic clamp in healthy volunteers. To evaluate the stability of a new ultrafast-acting biosimilar when used for continuous subcutaneous infusion in insulin pumps.Materials and methods. Double-blind, randomized, crossover study assessing the pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics and safety of the tested biosimilar GP40311 of domestic production and the reference drug produced in Denmark, in the form of a solution for intravenous and subcutaneous administration of 100 IU/ml, the study was conducted under conditions of a hyperinsulinemic euglycemic clamp with the participation of 36 healthy volunteers. A study of the stability, dosing accuracy and tendency to catheter occlusion of a domestic drug for continuous subcutaneous infusion was carried out using several types of insulin pumps using the gravimetric method for 72 hours. Dosing accuracy was determined at the minimum and maximum bolus dose, stability was assessed by pH and quantitative insulin content aspart. The quantitative content of insulin and impurities was assessed by high-performance liquid chromatography.Results and discission. The 90% confidence interval for the ratio of geometric mean values of the main parameters of pharmacokinetics (AUCins.0-t and Cins.max) of insulin aspart test and reference drugs corresponded to the acceptable values of 80.00– 125.00%, which indicated their biosimilarity. When assessing PD, the comparability of action parameters is shown. The safety of the study drugs is comparable. Domestic insulin aspart met the specification standards when used for continuous subcutaneous infusion according to physicochemical parameters: pH, quantitative determination of insulin aspart, impurity content. The accuracy of dosing and the absence of occlusions in systems for 72 hours when using the drug in pumps have been established.Conclusion. The study drugs were found to be biosimilar and equally safe. Domestic insulin aspart meets specification standards and can be used in various types of pumps.

Association of preschool children behavior and emotional problems with the parenting behavior of both parents.

Parental behaviors are key in shaping children's psychological and behavioral development, crucial for early identification and prevention of mental health issues, reducing psychological trauma in childhood. To investigate the relationship between parenting behaviors and behavioral and emotional issues in preschool children. From October 2017 to May 2018, 7 kindergartens in Ma'anshan City were selected to conduct a parent self-filled questionnaire - Health Development Survey of Preschool Children. Children's Strength and Difficulties Questionnaire (Parent Version) was applied to measures the children's behavioral and emotional performance. Parenting behavior was evaluated using the Parental Behavior Inventory. Binomial logistic regression model was used to analyze the association between the detection rate of preschool children's behavior and emotional problems and their parenting behaviors. High level of parental support/participation was negatively correlated with conduct problems, abnormal hyperactivity, abnormal total difficulty scores and abnormal prosocial behavior problems. High level of maternal support/participation was negatively correlated with abnormal emotional symptoms and abnormal peer interaction in children. High level of parental hostility/coercion was positively correlated with abnormal emotional symptoms, abnormal conduct problems, abnormal hyperactivity, abnormal peer interaction, and abnormal total difficulty scores in children (all P < 0.05). Moreover, paternal parenting behaviors had similarly effects on behavior and emotional problems of preschool children compared with maternal parenting behaviors (all P > 0.05), after calculating ratio of odds ratio values. Our study found that parenting behaviors are associated with behavioral and emotional issues in preschool children. Overall, the more supportive or involved the parents are, the fewer behavioral and emotional problems the children experience; conversely, the more hostile or controlling the parents are, the more behavioral and emotional problems the children face. Moreover, the impact of fathers' parenting behaviors on preschool children's behavior and emotions is no less significant than that of mothers' parenting behaviors.

The value of quantitative flow ratio in the hemodynamic evaluation of myocardial bridge

Objective: To explore the application value of quantitative flow ratio (QFR) in the hemodynamic evaluation of myocardial bridge and to preliminarily evaluate the correlation and related influencing factors between deformation quantitative flow ratio (D-QFR) and QFR. Methods: This is a cross-sectional study. Patients with CAG-confirmed simple myocardial bridge of the middle anterior descending coronary artery from June 2012 to June 2022 at the Air Force Medical Center were retrospectively included in this study. Systolic stenosis of mural coronary arteries (MCA) and myocardial bridge length were measured using quantitative coronary angiography. The patients were divided into mild stenosis group (<50% systolic stenosis) and moderate-to-severe stenosis group (≥50% systolic stenosis) according to the Nobel grading criteria. At different time periods (systolic and diastolic), the QFR values were measured at 3 locations (1 to 2 cm before the MCA entrance, the middle segment of the MCA, and 1 to 2 cm after the MCA exit), denoted as QFRa, QFRb, and QFRc, respectively, and the D-QFR values, incorporating vessel deformation information, were recorded. The MCA distal QFR≤0.8 in either stage was defined as an abnormal QFR value. QFR values were compared between the two groups at different locations and within each group. Factors associated with abnormal QFR values were analysed using multifactorial logistic regression. Spearman rank correlation analysis was used to examine the correlation between D-QFR values and systolic and diastolic QFR values.Multiple linear regression was used to analyse the factors associated with D-QFR. Results: A total of 83 patients were enrolled, including 58 males, aged (57.1±13.1) years. There were 48 cases in the mild stenosis group and 35 cases in the moderate-to-severe stenosis group, and the differences in systolic and diastolic QFRb and QFRc values between the two groups were statistically significant (all P<0.05). Within-group comparisons showed the values of QFRb and QFRc in the systolic phase were lower than those in the diastolic phase; QFRb and QFRc were both lower than QFRa during the same period (all P<0.05). Multifactorial logistic regression analysis showed that MCA systolic stenosis (OR=1.225, 95%CI 1.093-1.372, P<0.001) was an influential factor for abnormal QFR. D-QFR values were positively correlated with both systolic and diastolic QFR values (correlation coefficients were 0.849 and 0.675, respectively, both P<0.01). Multiple linear regression analysis showed that D-QFR values were negatively correlated with age (β=-0.208, P=0.029), systolic stenosis (β=-0.500, P<0.001), and myocardial bridge length (β=-0.211, P=0.036). Conclusions: The QFR values in middle and distal of myocardial bridge decrease. The systolic stenosis rate of myocardial bridge is an important factor affecting QFR value. D-QFR is positively correlated with both systolic and diastolic QFR values. Age, myocardial bridge systolic stenosis rate and length are factors influencing the D-QFR values.

Role of Cerebroplacental Ratio in Predicting Perinatal Outcome.

Objective Doppler velocimetry provides a sensitive, non-invasive, and safe method of surveillance of fetal hemodynamics and fetomaternal circulation. Cerebroplacental ratio (CPR) is an indicator of placental function and fetal maladaptation to placental insufficiency. Cerebroplacental ratio (CPR) is becoming a significant indicator of unfavorable pregnancy outcomes, which has implications for the assessment of fetal well-being. This study aimedto determine the cut-off value of the cerebroplacental ratio (CPR) in appropriate for gestational age (AGA) fetuses in high-risk mothers to predict adverse perinatal outcomes. We also compared the efficacy of CPR, umbilical artery pulsatility index (UmA PI), and middle cerebral artery pulsatility index (MCA PI) for predicting adverse perinatal outcomes. Design and setting This was a prospective observational study conducted at the Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh, India. Methods A total of 100 women with singleton high-risk pregnancies were included in this prospective observational study. Obstetric ultrasound was performed at the time of recruitment, and fetal weight and CPR were noted. Based on fetal weight, patients were divided into AGA and fetal growth restriction (FGR) groups; CPR was measured; patients were followed up fortnightly; and outcomes were noted. Main outcome The effectiveness of CPR, UmA PI, and MCA PI for predicting poor perinatal outcomes and identifying the cut-off value of CPR in appropriate for gestational age (AGA) fetuses in high-risk mothers was assessed. Result The values of MCA PI, UmA PI, and CPR were statistically significant between AGA and FGR (p-value =.023, .002 and .0001), respectively. The cut-off value for CPR-detecting adverse outcomes in AGA was 1.49. It has sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value of 67.5%, 68%, 71.69%, and 70.21%, respectively. Conclusion Cerebroplacental ratio (CPR) reflects both circulatory insufficiency of the placenta and adaptive changes of the middle cerebral artery, indicating an important non-invasive surveillance modality.