In March 2013, a novel avian influenza A H7N9 virus was emerged in China, which cause rapidly progressive pneumonia and with a high fatality rate. Serologic studies to evaluate neutralizing antibodies of infected patients and birds are invaluable tools for immunogenicity research of H7N9 and epidemiological investigation. Conventional neutralization assays are laborious and time-consuming which also hampered by biosafety requirement. In this study, We construct and produce pseudovirus bearing the full-length hemagglutinin (HA) of H7N9 virus in the Env-defective, luciferase-expressing HIV-1 backbone. The production of lentiviral pseudovirus was analysed by HA gene specific real-time reverse-transcription PCR, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and Western Blot assay to prove the nucleic acid replication, the morphology of virus, and the expression of HA protein in pseudovirus. After that pseudovirus based inhibition assay was established to detect neutralizing antibodies of a panel of serum samples. Our results demonstrated that H7N9 pseudovirus which had single-cycle infection was generated. By comparing the neutralization antibody titers, pseudovirus based neutralization test could be recognized as an alternative of conventional microneutralization (MN). Hence, we conclude that it is possible to use pseudovirus inhibition assay to screen sera samples, as well as evaluate vaccine-induced neutralizing antibodies against H7N9 virus.

Background: This study aimed to identify the association between occupational stress and depression-well-being by proposing a comprehensive and flexible job burden-capital model with its corresponding hypotheses. Methods: For this research, 1618 valid samples were gathered from the electronic manufacturing service industry in Hunan Province, China; self-rated questionnaires were administered to participants for data collection after obtaining their written consent. The proposed model was fitted and tested through structural equation model analysis. Results: Single-factor correlation analysis results indicated that coefficients between all items and dimensions had statistical significance. The final model demonstrated satisfactory global goodness of fit (CMIN/DF=5.37, AGFI=0.915, NNFI=0.945, IFI=0.952, RMSEA=0.052). Both the measurement and structural models showed acceptable path loadings. Job burden and capital were directly associated with depression and well-being or indirectly related to them through personality. Multi-group structural equation model analyses indicated general applicability of the proposed model to basic features of such a population. Gender, marriage and education led to differences in the relation between occupational stress and health outcomes. Conclusions: The job burden-capital model of occupational stress-depression and well-being was found to be more systematic and comprehensive than previous models.

Background: this interventional pilot study aimed to evaluate the short-term (3 years) efficacy of focal laser ablation (FLA) in treating the index lesion of low-intermediate risk prostate cancer, along with assessing the safety of the procedure (ClinicalTrials.gov ID NCT04045756). Methods: forty patients aged between 46 and 86 with histologically proven organ-confined prostate cancer and low to intermediate progression risk were included. FLA was performed under percutaneous fusion magnetic resonance/ultrasound guidance in a Day Hospital setting under local anesthesia. Patients underwent regular clinical assessments, PSA measurements, post-procedure MRI scans, and biopsies at 36 months or if positive findings were detected earlier. Statistical analyses were conducted to assess trends in PSA levels and cavity dimensions over time. Results: forty patients were initially included, with 15 lost to follow-up. At 36 months, a mean PSA reduction of 60% was observed, and 80% of MRI scans showed no signs of in-field clinically significant residual/recurrent cancer. Biopsies at 36 months revealed no malignant findings in 20 patients. No deterioration in sexual function or urinary symptoms was recorded. Conclusions: FLA appears to be safe, feasible and effective in the index lesion treatment of low-intermediate risk prostate cancer, with a high rate of tumor eradication and preservation of quality of life.

Alternative fertilizations are essential to minimize the deteriorating effects of chemical fertilizers on soil and water quality/health. Accordingly, the present work investigated the effects of combined organic-inorganic fertilization (COIF) on wheat and rice yields, soil nutrients, and soil Cd accumulation. Hence, seven different treatments were set up: control (CK); conventional fertilization (CF); optimized fertilization (OF); organic fertilizer replacing 25% (T1) and 50% (T2) of OF; and organic nitrogen (N) replacing 25% (M1) and 50% (M2) of OF-N. Overall, significant increases occurred in the yields of COIF crops. Compared with the CF, the highest wheat and rice yields happened in M1 treatment (approximately by18.5%) (P < 0.05). COIF slightly alleviated soil acidification, and improved the cation exchange capacity (CEC) of the study soils. Besides, COIF treatments significantly increased the contents of total phosphorus, total potassium, available phosphorus, and available potassium by 6.35 to 16.9 %, 3.17 to 10.9 %, 5.53 to 28.7 %, and 2.6 to 12 %, respectively (P <0.05). Nevertheless, negligible increases took place in Cd content of COIF soils compared with the CK. Altogether, our results concluded on 25% replacement of OF-N by organic N (M1) to effectively improve the fertility/ecological sustainability of the study soils.

To improve carbon efficiency for urban logistics service system composed of a third-party logistics service provider (3PLs) and an e-business enterprise, low-carbon operation game between them was studied. Considering low carbon technology investment cost and sales expansion effect of low carbon level, profit functions for both players were constituted. Based on their different bargaining capabilities, totally 5 types of game scenarios were designed. Through analytical solution, Nash Equilibria under varied scenarios were obtained. By analyzing these equilibria, 4 major propositions were given, in which, some key variables and system performance index were compared. Results show that the best system yields could only be achieved under the fully cooperative situation; limited cooperation only for carbon emission reduction would not benefit the system performance improvement; E-business enterprise-leading game’s performance overtook 3PLs-leading ones.

Bartonella species, intracellular parasitic zoonotic pathogens, has drawn increasing attention for their diverse host range and associated human diseases. This study investigates Bartonella infection in small mammals in Yunnan Province, China, focusing on tissue tropism. 333 small mammals were sampled from 13 species, 3 orders, 4 families, and 4 genera in Heqing and Gongshan Counties. Conventional PCR and real-time quantitative PCR (qPCR) were utilized for detection and quantification, followed by bioinformatic analysis of obtained DNA sequences. Results show a 31.5% detection rate, varying across species. Notably, Apodemus chevrieri, Eothenomys eleusis, Niviventer fulvescens, Rattus tanezumi, Episoriculus leucops, Anourosorex squamipes, and Ochotona Thibetana exhibited infection rates of 44.4%, 27.7%, 100.0%, 6.3%, 60.0%, 23.5%, and 22.2%, respectively. Genetic analysis identified 30, 10, and 5 strains based on ssrA, rpoB, and gltA genes, with nucleotide identities ranging from 92.1% to 100.0%. Bartonella strains were assigned to B. grahamii, B. rochalimae, B. sendai, B. koshimizu, B. phoceensis, B. taylorii, and a new species identified in the Episoriculus leucops (GS136). Tissue distribution analysis revealed varied copy numbers across different tissues, with the highest load in spleen. These findings underscore Bartonella's diverse species and host range in Yunnan Province, highlighting its broad tissue tropism in small mammals.

Structure and reversibility of cross-link junctions play pivotal roles in deter- mining the nature of thermoreversible gelation and dynamic mechanical prop- erties of the produced polymer networks. We attempt to explore new types of sol–gel transitions with mechanical sharpness by allowing cross-links to grow without upper bound. We consider thermoreversible gelation of the primary molecules R{Af} carrying the number f of low molecular weight functional groups (gelators) A. Gelators A are assumed to form supramolecular assemblies. Some examples are: telechelic polymers (f = 2) carrying π–π stacking benzene derivatives at their both ends, trifunctional star molecules (f = 3) bearing mul- tiple hydrogen-bonding gelators. The sol–gel transition of the primary molecules becomes sharper with the cooperativity parameter of the stepwise linear growth of the cross-links. There is a polymerization transition (crossover without singu- larity) of the junctions in the postgel region after the gel point is passed. If the gelator A tends to form supramolecular rings competitively with linear chains, there is another phase transition in the deep postgel region where the average molecular weight of the rings becomes infinite (Bose-Einstein condensation of rings). As a typical example of binary cross-links where gelators A and B form mixed junctions, we specifically consider metal-coordinated binding of ligands A by metal ions B. Two types of multi-nuclear supramolecular complexes are studied: (i) linear stacking (ladder) of the sandwich A2B units, (ii) linear train of egg-box A4B units. The average molecular weight, the gel fraction, the av- erage length of the cross-link junctions are calculated for all of these models as functions of the functionality f, the concentration of the solute molecules, and temperature. Potential candidates for the realization of these new types of thermoreversible gelation are discussed.

Oncolytic virotherapy is a promising immunotherapy approach for cancer treatment, utilizing viruses to preferentially infect and eliminate cancer cells while stimulating immune responses. In this review we synthesize current literature on the molecular circuits of immune sensing and response to oncolytic virotherapy; focusing on viral DNA or RNA sensing by infected cells, cytokine and danger-associated signal sensing by neighboring cells, and subsequent downstream activation of immune pathways. The sequential sense-and-response mechanisms involve the triggering of molecular sensors by viruses or infected cells to activate transcription factors and related genes for a breadth of immune responses. We describe how molecular signals induced in the tumor upon virotherapy can trigger diverse immune signaling pathways, activating both antigen-presenting cell-based innate and T cell-based adaptive immune responses. Insights into these complex mechanisms provide valuable knowledge for enhancing oncolytic virotherapy strategies.

Agriculture is an industry that heavily relies on the environment. The increasing frequency of ex-treme disasters attributable to climate change has adversely affected agricultural land and dis-rupted the stability of the supply of agricultural products. Therefore, we implemented a research program focused on current strategies for adapting to agricultural meteorological disasters. The primary goal was to actively promote disaster prevention information and techniques through information platforms and applications and to provide refined forecasting and an early warning system to enhance preparedness for and recovery from agricultural disasters. This initiative can transform passive mitigation into dynamic action by disseminating crucial information to farmers. We integrated meteorological data and crop characteristics to develop disaster prevention strate-gies for the predisaster, during-disaster, and postdisaster stages to empower farmers to implement autonomous disaster prevention, ensuring their profitability and minimizing the impact of disas-ters. This paper presents an agricultural disaster prevention system involving cross-disciplinary collaboration to establish an early warning system for crop disasters. However, the effectiveness of the early warning system relies on the availability of complete meteorological and crop infor-mation, necessitating high-density agricultural meteorological stations, refined weather forecast services, historical crop damage data, and ongoing research and development on disaster preven-tion technology. In the system, a diversified social media interface is used to provide local farmers with weather forecast information. When impending disasters are identified, the platform acti-vates disaster prevention measures to reduce agricultural losses. This article paper introduces Taiwan’s agricultural disaster prevention system as a complete disaster prevention strategy.

The Internet of Things (IoT) is a concept based on the integration of various devices and methods of communication to exchange information in order to contribute to the improvement of everyday life, business and environment. This paper focuses on the establishment of a modern Internet of Things platform to ensure secure collection, processing and storage of data, under unexpected events. This platform establishes reliable connectivity which enhance system uptime; the key to success when implementing an IoT strategy. For this purpose, we proposed a hybrid approach combining different connectivity technologies to ensure the availability and smooth operation of the system and the prevention of data loss in unforeseen cases.

A typhoon-induced storm surge is considered one of the most severe coastal disasters in Taiwan. However, the combination of the storm surge and the astronomical tide called the storm tide can actually cause extreme flooding in coastal areas. This study implemented a two-dimensional hydrodynamic model to account for the interaction between tides and storm surges on the coast of Taiwan. The model was validated with observed water levels at Sauo Fish Port, Hualien Port, and Chenggong Fish Port under different historical typhoon events. The model results are in reasonable agreement with the measured data. The validated model was then used to evaluate the effects of the typhoon's intensity, bathymetric change, and the combination of the typhoon’s intensity and bathymetric change on the maximum storm tide and its distribution along the east coast of Taiwan. The results indicated that the maximum storm tide rises to 1.92 m under a typhoon with an intensity of a 100-year return period. The maximum storm tide increased from a baseline of 1.26 m to 2.63 m for a 90% bathymetric rise at Sauo Fish Port under the conditions of Typhoon Jangmi (2008). The combination of the intensity of a typhoon with a 100-year return period and a 90% bathymetric rise will result in a maximum storm tide exceeding 4 m, 2 m, and 3 m at Sauo Fish Port, Hualien Port, and Chenggong Fish Port, respectively. We also found that the distribution of the maximum storm tide on the east coast of Taiwan can expand significantly subject to the bathymetric rise.

The study of precipitation amount at different time scales constitutes an important issue in climate research and risk assessment. When dealing with daily totals, a frequent but sometimes underestimated problem is at what time the observation day begins. The choice of different starting times may lead to incompatibility between stations and incorrect identification of extreme events. In this work, the problem of temporal misalignment between precipitation datasets characterized by different starting time of the observation day is analyzed. The most widely used adjustment methods (1day and uniform shift) and two methods based on reanalysis (NOAA and ERA5) are evaluated in terms of temporal alignment, precipitation statistics and percentile distributions. As test series, the precipitation amount collected from 9 a.m. local time (09 LT) on the previous day to 09 LT on the target day (9-9 datasets) of the Padua and nearby stations in the period 1993-2022 have been selected. Results show that the reanalysis-based methods, in particular ERA5, outperform the others in temporal alignment, regardless the station. But, for the periods in which reanalysis data are not available, “1day” method, which shifts the daily amount back one calendar day, and “unif” method, which distributes uniformly the daily total from a 2-day moving window surrounding the target date, can be considered valid alternatives. On the other side, concerning the precipitation statistics, the reanalysis-based methods are not the best option, as they increase the precipitation frequency and reduce the mean value over wet days, NOAA much more than ERA5. Nevertheless, the uniform method provides a larger deviation from the original daily series. The use of the series of a station nearby the target one, which is mandatory in case of missing data, gives similar or better results than applying any adjustment method to the 9-9 series. General conclusions can hardly be drawn as they depend on the method and station. For the Padua dataset, the analysis was repeated at monthly and seasonal resolution. In general, the adjustment series show the most relevant changes in the precipitation statistics in summer and less temporal alignment with the original series in summer and autumn, the two seasons mainly affected by heavy rains in Padua. Finally, the percentiles distribution, analyzed for all the methods and stations, indicates that any adjustment method underestimates the percentile values, except ERA5. Only Legnaro, the station most correlated with Padua, gives results like ERA5.

This paper is aimed at studying the temporal evolution of the surface displacements occurred over the past few years in the ocean-reclaimed platforms of the Shanghai megacity (China), which are mainly ascribable to consolidation processes of large dredger fills and alluvial deposits. With respect to previous analyses carried out over the same area, this work provides a joint multi-platform differential interferometry synthetic aperture radar (DInSAR) analysis, based on the application of the advanced Small BAseline Subset (SBAS) algorithm. This led us to retrieve long-term deformation time-series that are helpful for a better understanding of the on-going deformation phenomena. To this aim, we have exploited two sequences of SAR data collected by the ASAR/ENVISAT and by the COSMO-SkyMed (CSK) sensors, respectively, spanning the whole time period from 2007 to 2016. Unfortunately, the large time gap (of about three years) existing between the available ASAR/ENVISAT and CSK datasets gave rise to additional difficulties for their combination. Nevertheless, this problem has been faced by benefiting from the knowledge of a time-dependent model describing the temporal evolution of the expected deformations affecting the Shanghai ocean-reclaimed platforms.

Chitosan and its derivatives as a biocompatible, biodegradable polymer that has been well-established in biotechnology and medicine as the nanogels and nanofilms forming material, has a number of practical applications in the field of the supply of medicines, food colloids, agrotechnology, as well. In this paper, the focus of attention is directed to the study of the physico-chemical principles of the formation of gels and nano-particles using fluorescence spectroscopy methods. We have obtained chitosan (Chit5) and pegylated chitosan (Chit5-PEG) particles with an average size of 170 or 400 nm, respectively by counterflow extrusion method. The paper presents three based fluorescent probes sensitive to the formation of chitosan particles: congo red, malachite green as well as covalently attached pyrene-label. Dyes fluoresce about an order of magnitude brighter in the composition of chitosan nanogel particles or in mscrogels. With these fluorescence probes, the pH- and temperature-dependent behavior of polymers was studied, and the influence of the genipin -based crosslinking agent on the gel formation parameters, such as kinetics and concentration dependence of the nanoparticles formation accompanied by sharply increases in the fluorescence intensity of dyes was evaluated. A sensitive approach for tracking gelation and including of small drug molecules and protein by FRET using a pyrene-tryptophan donor-acceptor pair is proposed using tryptophan or ovalbumin as fluorophores-donors. Upon nanogel formation FRET effect is observed manifested in sharp increase if the fluorescence intensity of the pyrene (acceptor). Thus, the application of the fluorescent probes with FRET function for monitoring the gelation and nanoparticles formation as well as drug encapsulation in chitosan-based parts, which have broad prospects in biomedical practice and food industry.

The Eastern Kunlun Fault Zone (EKFZ) is located in a seismic blank area. This study investigates the hydrogeochemical characteristics of varied-temperature springs in the EKFZ to understand the relationship between fractures, fluids and earthquakes. It aids in establishing their induction mechanisms and assists in monitoring the earthquake precursors of the EKFZ. In this study, the main elements, trace elements, hydrogen and oxygen isotopes and strontium isotopes of 23 varied-temperature springs in the EKFZ were analyzed. The results reveal the source of groundwater recharge, hydrochemical types, mineral saturation, and for a select few springs indicative of geothermal activity, collected geothermal reservoir temperatures. The study also explores the relationship between earthquakes and springs, identifying sensitive chemical indicators. Based on continuous monitoring at Maqu Station, we found that before the occurrence of the Maerkang Ms 6.0 earthquake, the concentration of Cl− rose by 2.9 times, and 46 days before the Gande earthquake (Ms = 4.7), the concentrations of Na+ and SO42− significantly increased. Finally, a conceptual model of the hydrogeochemistry of springs is presented to describe the groundwater circulation in the study area. This research is of great significance for the analysis of fluid geochemistry in this area and for assessing the seismic hazards of the EKFZ.

The gelation time tg necessary for a solution of functional (associating) molecules to reach its gel point after a temperature jump, or a sudden concentration change, is theoretically calculated as a function of the concentration and temperature for the molecules carrying the number f of functional groups. Quite generally, tg is given by the product of the relaxation time tR and a thermodynamic factor Q. For pairwise cross-linking, and cross-linking with a fixed multiplicity k, precise values of tg are derived. For cross-linking with variable multiplicity, kinetic equation of stepwise association is derived for the reactivity pk of the functional groups, on the basis of which tg and tR are estimated. The thermodynamic factor Q is shown to generate a singularity of logarithmic divergence as the temperature (concentration) approaches the equilibrium gel point, while the relaxation time tR changes continuously across it. The retardation effect on the gelation time due to the reversibility of the cross-linking is explicitly calculated for some specific models of cross-linking. For a micellar cross-linking covering a wide range of the multiplicity, as seen in hydrophobically-modified water-soluble polymers, tR is shown to obey a formula similar to the Aniansson-Wall law.

In extant biology, biopolymers perform multiple crucial functions. The biopolymers are synthesized by enzyme-controlled biosystems that would not have been available at the earliest stages of chemical evolution and consist of correctly sequenced and/or linked monomers. Some of the abiotic “messy” polymers approximate some functions of biopolymers. Condensation polymers are an attractive search target for abiotic functional polymers since principal polymers of life are produced by condensation and since condensation allows for the accurate construction of high polymers. Herein the formation of hyperbranched polyesters that have been previously used in the construction of enzyme-like catalytic complexes is explored. The experimental setup compares between the branched polyesters prepared under mild continuous heating and the wet-dry cycle conditions. The results reveal that period wetting during which partial hydrolysis of the polyester occurs, helps control the chain growth and retards the gel transition. It is significant to the origin of life studies that environmental, prebiotically plausible conditions could achieve such control without enzymes or a skilled chemist. As expected in marginally controlled systems, the identification of each component of the heterogeneous system has proved challenging, but it is not crucial for drawing the conclusions.

This study investigates the effectiveness of a range of timber-based solutions for seismic and energy retrofitting of existing masonry buildings. These solutions are designed not only to prevent structural collapse during earthquakes but also to create integrated interventions that enhance thermo-physical performance and reduce emissions in existing buildings. Various case scenarios were considered and both mechanical and energetic behavior post-intervention were evaluated. Timber-engineered products serve as foundational components for the retrofit approach, encompassing one-dimensional vertical elements (strong-backs) and various types of panels (cross-laminated timber panels, laminated veneer lumber panels, and oriented strand board panels). The analyzed retrofit techniques share a common principle, involving the attachment of these timber-based elements to the building's wall surfaces through mechanical point-to-point connections. The proposed solutions integrate strong-backs and timber panels with membranes and insulation layers, yielding cohesive and highly effective interventions. Finite element modeling was employed to analyze the mechanical and thermal responses of the retrofitted walls. A comprehensive comparative analysis of various techniques was conducted to determine the most effective solution for each specific scenario.

Cardiovascular diseases are a broadly understood concept focusing on vascular and heart dys-function. Lack of physical exercise, type 2 diabetes, obesity, hypertension, dyslipidemia, throm-boembolism, kidney, and lung diseases all contribute to the development of heart and blood vessel dysfunction. Although effective and important, traditional treatment with diuretics, statins, beta–blockers, calcium inhibitors, ACE inhibitors, and anti–platelet drugs remain a second–line treatment after dietary intervention and lifestyle changes. Scientists worldwide are still looking for an herbal product that would be quite effective and free from side effects, either taken together or before the standard pharmacological intervention. Such herbal–originated medication therapy may include Morus alba L. (white mulberry), Elaeagnus rhamnoides (L.) A. Nelson (sea–buckthorn), Allium sativum L. (garlic), Convallaria majalis L. (lily of the valley), Leonurus cardiaca L. (mother-wort), and Crataegus spp. (hawthorn). Valuable herbal raw materials include leaves, fruits, seeds, and even thorns. This short review focuses on six herbs that can constitute an interesting and po-tential therapeutic option in the management of cardiovascular disorders.

There is a growing trend among consumers to seek out natural foods and products with natural ingredients. This shift in consumer preferences had a direct impact on both food and pharmaceutical industries, leading to a focus of scientific research and commercial efforts to meet these new demands. The aim of this work is to review recent available scientific data on foods of interest, such as artichoke, gooseberry, and polygonoideae plants, as well as olive oil and red raspberries. Interestingly, the urgency of solutions to the climate change emergency has brought new attention to by-products of grapevine bunch stem and cane, which have been found to contain bioactive compounds with potential health benefits. There is a pressing need for a faster process of translating scientific knowledge from the laboratory to real-world applications, especially in the face of the increasing societal burden associated to non-communicable diseases (NCDs), environmental crises, the post-pandemic world, and ongoing violent conflicts around the world.

Vancomycin is one of the ‘last-line’ classes of antibiotics used in the treatment of life-threatening infections caused by Gram-positive bacteria. Even though vancomycin was discovered in 1950s it was widely used after 1980s for the treatment of infections caused by methicillin-resistant Staphylococci as prevalence of such strains were increased. However, currently it is evident that vancomycin resistant Staphylococcusaureusandvancomycin-resistant Enterococci have been developed as a result of various reasons including use of avaparcin, which is an analog of vancomycin, as feed additive in livestock. In present day context, more attention should be paid on prevention of emergence of resistance for the antibiotics in order to keep antibiotics effective. In order to prevent emergence of resistance, proper guidance for the responsible use of antimicrobials is indispensable. Therefore, almost all stakeholders who use antibiotics should have in depth understanding on the antibiotic they use. As such, it is imperative to be aware of the important aspects of vancomycin. In the present review, efforts have been made to discussthe pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, indications, emergence of resistance, control of resistance, adverse effects and alternative therapy for vancomycin.

A delayed crosslinked polymer gel was developed for indepth water control in mature oilfields. The thermal gelation behavior of nonionic polyacrylamide (NPAM) and PEI was investigated, and sodium citrate (NaCit) was selected as a new retarder to prolong the gelation time. The gelation performance of NPAM/PEI gel system can be adjusted by the variation of NPAM or PEI concentration, and a quadratic model was developed by statistical analysis, which predict the gelation time of NPAM/PEI gel system. The obtained model showed high significance and good reliability as suggested by the F-ratio of 175.16 and high adjusted R-square value (0.9732). The decrease of the initial pH value of gelling solution leads to the weaker gel viscosity and longer gelation time due to the protonation of amine groups on the PEI chains. Increasing temperature resulted in higher gel viscosity but shorter gelation time. The addition of NaCit showed a good delayed gelation effect on the NPAM/PEI gel system, and the gel system in the presence of NaCit exhibited a good compatibility with injected and formation water. A dense three-dimensional structure was observed in matured NPAM/PEI/NaCit gel, and it could keep stable below 150℃. The gel system could effectively reduce the permeability (>95%) and restricted the flow of water after matured in natural cores.

The strategy of any organization is based on the growth of its customer base, and one of its principles is that selling a product to an existing customer is much more profitable than acquiring a new customer. However, this approach has several opportunities for improvement, since it usually has a totally reactive approach, which does not give opportunity to the areas specialized in customer experience and recovery, to give an effective response for that moment, since the customer is gone at the time of the intervention. This happens because usually a diagnostic analysis of customers who have stopped buying products or services in a defined period, commonly three (3) periods or months, is performed. This thesis work challenges the way to face this problem, and proposes the development of a complete solution, which does not focus exclusively on the prediction of churn, as is usually done in the state of the art research, but to intervene in different interactions that can be carried out with customers. The above focused not only to prevent customer churn, but to generate an added value of continuous improvement in sales processes, increase customer penetration, leading to an improvement in customer experience and consequently, an increase in customer loyalty.

The prevalence of hepatitis B and delta viruses (HBV/HDV) among people who use drugs (PWUD) remains largely unknown. In the context of one Philadelphia-based harm reduction organization (HRO), this study aimed to assess HBV/HDV prevalence and facilitate linkage to care. Participants completed a demographic HBV/HDV risk factor survey and were screened for HBV and reflexively for HDV if positive for HBV surface antigen or isolated core antibody. Fisher’s exact tests and regression were used to understand relationships between risks and HBV blood markers. Of the 498 participants, 126 (25.3%) were susceptible to HBV, 52.6% had been vaccinated against HBV, and 17.9% had recovered from a past infection. Eleven (2.2%) participants tested positive for isolated HBV core antibody, 10 (2.0%) for HBV surface antigen, and one (0.2%) for HDV antibody. History of incarceration was associated with current HBV infection, while transactional sex and experience of homelessness were predictive of previous exposure. This study found high rates of current and past HBV infection, and a 10% HBV/HDV co-infection rate. Despite availability of vaccine, one quarter of participants remained vulnerable to infection. Findings demonstrate the need to improve low-threshold HBV/HDV screening, vaccination, and linkage to care among PWUD. The study also identified gaps in the HBV/HDV care cascade, including lack of point-of-care diagnostics and lack of support for HROs to provide HBV services.

Childhood obesity has become a global epidemic, with significant increases in prevalence over recent decades. While excessive calorie consumption and physical inactivity are known factors, emerging research highlights the role of Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs), particularly obesogens, in obesity's pathogenesis. This review explores the historical context of the environmental obesogens hypothesis, their sources, mechanism of action, impact on prenatal and postnatal development and epigenetics. Additionally, it discusses the long-term consequences of childhood obesity and proposes prevention strategies that will mitigate the negative health effects. Obesogens were found to disrupt hormonal balance and metabolic processes through various mechanisms such as altering gene expression, hormonal interference, and inflammation. Especially significant, was exposure during critical windows of development which correlates with increased risk of obesity in childhood or adolescence. Long-term effects of childhood obesity include chronic health conditions and psychosocial issues. A comprehensive approach is necessary to address childhood obesity, encompassing genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. Prevention strategies should focus on reducing obesogens exposure, promoting healthy lifestyles, and implementing regulatory policies. Future research should investigate obesogens-diet interactions, microbiome impacts, and combined obesogens effects. Long-term human studies are also crucial for validating findings from animal models and allow for inform decision-making to combat the obesity pandemic.

Neurotrauma continues to contribute to significant mortality and disability. The need for better protective equipment is apparent. This review focuses on improved helmet design and the necessi-ty for continued research. We start by highlighting current innovations in helmet design for sport and subsequent utilization in the lay community for construction. The current standards by sport and organization are summarized. We then address current standards within the military envi-ronment. The pathophysiology is discussed with emphasis on how helmets provide protection. As innovative designs emerge, protection against secondary injury becomes apparent. Much research is needed, but this focused paper is intended to serve as a catalyst for improvement in helmet de-sign and implementation to provide more efficient and reliable neuroprotection across broad arenas.

The latest scientific literature outlines a resilient interconnection between cancer modulation and dietary polyphenols by sphingolipid-mediated mechanisms, usually correlated with a modification of their metabolism. We aim to extensively survey this relation to show how it could be advantageous in cancer treatment or prevention by nutrients. Polyphenols, chemically characterized by polyhydroxylated phenolic structure, are well known for their pervasive pharmacological properties: anti-inflammatory, antibiotic, antiseptic, antitumor, antiallergic, cardioprotective and others. Pervasive is also their distribution in food products especially in plant foods as vegetables, cereals, legumes, fruits, nuts and beverages as wine, cider, beer, tea, cocoa. Recently, sphingolipids have been correlated with cancer by a dysregulation of their rheostat emerging as mediator of cell proliferation in cancer and modulator of chemotherapeutics.

AbstractBackground: Empowering Communities, Combating HIV/AIDS: The Indispensable Role of Community-Based Strategies in Awareness and PreventionObjective: Highlight the significance of community-based approaches in addressing the ongoing HIV/AIDS pandemic through enhanced awareness, reduced stigma, and effective prevention measures.Method: This article provides a theoretical analysis of community-based HIV/AIDS interventions, drawing upon key strategies and successful examples from diverse settings.Results: Community-based initiatives emerge as critical factors in empowering individuals and communities to take ownership of their health. Through culturally-sensitive education, accessible testing, and comprehensive support services, these initiatives effectively diminish the social stigma surrounding HIV/AIDS and promote preventative behaviors. Examples of successful programs illustrate the potential of community-driven approaches to achieve measurable reductions in transmission rates and improved health outcomes.Conclusion: The fight against HIV/AIDS necessitates robust community engagement. Community-based interventions, grounded in local knowledge and addressing specific needs, offer a promising pathway towards fostering health equity, reducing stigma, and ultimately curtailing the spread of the virus. Further research and investment in these initiatives are crucial to ensuring their scalability and sustained impact on global HIV/AIDS prevention efforts.

Coxsackievirus A6 (CV-A6) has emerged as the predominant causative agent of hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) in young children. Since the declaration of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) as a global pandemic, the incidence of infectious diseases, including HFMD, has decreased markedly. When social mitigation was relaxed during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2022, re-emergence of HFMD was observed in Gwangju, South Korea, and seasonal characteristics of the disease appeared to have changed. To investigate the molecular characteristics of enterovirus (EV) associated with HFMD during 2022, 277 specimens were collected. Children aged under 5 years accounted for the majority of affected individuals. EV detection and genotyping were performed using real-time RT-PCR and nested RT-PCR followed by sequence analysis. EV detection rate was found to be 82.3%, and the main genotype identified was CV-A6. Sixteen CV-A6 samples were selected for whole genome sequencing. According to phylogenetic analysis, all CV-A6 strains from this study belonged to the sub-genotype D3 clade based on VP1 sequences. Analysis of 3D polymerase phylogeny showed that only the recombinant RF-A group was identified. In conclusion, circulating EV types should be continuously monitored to understand pathogen emergence and evolution during the post-pandemic era.

Glaucoma poses a serious public health concern as it is the second leading cause of blindness after cataracts, while also being the leading cause of irreversible blindness worldwide. Glaucoma is more prevalent among Black, Latino, and Asian populations and it is essential to examine both racial and ethnic disparities that exist in treatment and prevention. As the number of people with glaucoma continues to grow, it is important to review aspects of this condition in order to better care for those affected. This article will review significant forms of glaucoma and what differentiates them in a diagnosis, treatment options, and recommendations on prevention and improving awareness

Sports traumatic brain injury (TBI) accounts for up to 20% of all sports injuries, and the number of cases is growing year by year due to an increase in the number of people involved in sports, the growing popularity of extreme and contact sports, as well as a high level of motivation to achieve record results. Mild TBI dominates, which can provoke the development of a very wide range of complications and negative consequences. In the programs for the prevention of complications and the rehabilitation of athletes after TBI, TBI features are not sufficiently considered, which significantly differ from household, road or criminal injuries. There are no instrumental methods for diagnosing the severity of the injury. Sports TBI is characterized by repeated frequent TBI, elevated body and brain temperature, peripheral redistribution of blood flow and hypocapnia, which significantly affect cerebral blood flow. Brain injury is an independent cause of the development of cerebral hyperthermia, which significantly worsens the consequences of TBI. To diagnose sports TBI, the method of microwave radiometry of the brain (MWR) can be used. For the prevention of complications, the technology of craniocerebral hypothermia (CCH), which allows for to reduce of physical general and cerebral hyperthermia, and increases the resistance of cerebral cortex neurons to hypoxia and trauma could be used However, these approaches in sports medicine are used sporadically, which, is due to the lack of awareness of coaches and doctors of sports teams. The purpose of the review is to present MWR and CCH in sports TBI.

Cancer risk is known to increase tremendously when the immune system is suppressed, e.g., as observed in young organ-transplant recipients and AIDS patients. Based on such data, it may be hypothesized that the main reason for the development of clinical cancer is the weakening or suppression of the immune system, and that uncontrolled multiplication of cancer cells occurs when some aspects of the immune system fall below certain critical levels. Therefore, cancer may be prevented and treated by boosting these critical aspects of the immune system so that they are maintained above the critical levels. If multiple immune system boosting interventions are utilized, more aspects of the immune system would be boosted, increasing the likelihood of enhancing the critical aspects of the immune system and generating a cancer preventive and/or therapeutic effect. Clinical trials are needed to validate this approach for cancer prevention and treatment. If validated, the proposed approach could result in a major reduction of the death and suffering caused by cancer in the world.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming the field of medicine, announcing a new era of innovation and efficiency. Among AI programs designed for general use ChatGPT holds a prom-inent position using an innovative language model developed by OpenAI. Thanks to the use of deep learning techniques, ChatGPT stands out as an exceptionally viable tool, renowned for gen-erating human-like responses to queries. Various medical specialties, including rheumatology, oncology, psychiatry, internal medicine, and ophthalmology, have been explored for ChatGPT in-tegration, with pilot studies and trials revealing each field's potential benefits and challenges. However, the field of genetics and genetic counseling, as well as that of rare disorders, represents an area suitable for exploration, with its complex data sets and the need for personalized patient care. In this review, we synthesize the wide range of potential applications for ChatGPT in the medical field, highlighting its benefits and limitations. We pay special attention to rare and genetic disorders, aiming to shed light on the future roles of AI-driven chatbots in healthcare. Our goal is to pave the way for a healthcare system that is more knowledgeable, efficient, and centered around patient needs.

The strategy of any organization is based on the growth of its customer base, and one of 5 its principles is that selling a product to an existing customer is much more profitable than acquiring 6 a new customer. However, this approach has several opportunities for improvement, since it usu- 7 ally has a totally reactive approach, which does not give opportunity to the areas specialized in 8 customer experience and recovery, to give an effective response for that moment, since the customer 9 is gone at the time of the intervention. This happens because usually a diagnostic analysis of cus- 10 tomers who have stopped buying products or services in a defined period, commonly three (3) pe- 11 riods or months, is performed. This thesis work challenges the way to face this problem, and pro- 12 poses the development of a complete solution, which does not focus exclusively on the prediction 13 of churn, as is usually done in the state of the art research, but to intervene in different interactions 14 that can be carried out with customers. The above focused not only to prevent customer churn, but 15 to generate an added value of continuous improvement in sales processes, increase customer pene- 16 tration, leading to an improvement in customer experience and consequently, an increase in cus- 17 tomer loyalty.

The strategy of any organization is based on the growth of its customer base, and one of 6 its principles is that selling a product to an existing customer is much more profitable than acquiring 7 a new customer. However, this approach has several opportunities for improvement, since it usu- 8 ally has a totally reactive approach, which does not give opportunity to the areas specialized in 9 customer experience and recovery, to give an effective response for that moment, since the customer 10 is gone at the time of the intervention. This happens because usually a diagnostic analysis of cus- 11 tomers who have stopped buying products or services in a defined period, commonly three (3) pe- 12 riods or months, is performed. This paper challenges the way to face this problem, and proposes 13 the development of a complete solution, which does not focus exclusively on the prediction of 14 churn, as is usually done in the state of the art research, but to intervene in different interactions 15 that can be carried out with customers. The above focused not only to prevent customer churn, but 16 to generate an added value of continuous improvement in sales processes, increase customer pene- 17 tration, leading to an improvement in customer experience and consequently, an increase in cus- 18 tomer loyalty.

The strategy of any organization is based on the growth of its customer base, and one of 5 its principles is that selling a product to an existing customer is much more profitable than acquiring 6 a new customer. However, this approach has several opportunities for improvement, since it usu- 7 ally has a totally reactive approach, which does not give opportunity to the areas specialized in 8 customer experience and recovery, to give an effective response for that moment, since the customer 9 is gone at the time of the intervention. This happens because usually a diagnostic analysis of cus- 10 tomers who have stopped buying products or services in a defined period, commonly three (3) pe- 11 riods or months, is performed. This paper challenges the way to face this problem, and proposes 12 the development of a complete solution, which does not focus exclusively on the prediction of 13 churn, as is usually done in the state of the art research, but to intervene in different interactions 14 that can be carried out with customers. The above focused not only to prevent customer churn, but 15 to generate an added value of continuous improvement in sales processes, increase customer pene- 16 tration, leading to an improvement in customer experience and consequently, an increase in cus- 17 tomer loyalty.

Statins prevent cardiovascular diseases, yet their use is limited by the muscle disturbances they cause. Rarely, statin-induced myopathy is autoimmune, but more commonly it is due to direct muscle toxicity. Available evidence suggests that statin-induced creatine deficiency may be a major cause of this toxicity, and that creatine supplementation prevents it. Statins inhibit guanidinoacetate methyl transferase (GAMT), the last enzyme in the synthesis of creatine, thus they decrease its intracellular content. Such decreased content could cause mitochondrial impairment, since creatine is the final acceptor of the phosphate group of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) at the end of mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation. Decreased cellular synthesis of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) would follow. Accordingly, ATP synthesis is decreased in statin-treated cells. In vitro, creatine supplementation prevents the opening of mitochondrial permeability transition pore caused by statins. Clinically, creatine administration prevents statin myopathy in statin-intolerant patients. Additional research is warranted to hopefully confirm these findings. However, creatine is widely used by athletes with no adverse events, and has demonstrated to be safe even in double-blind, placebo-controlled trials of elder individuals. Thus, it should be trialed, under medical supervision, in patients who cannot assume statin due to the occurrence of muscular symptoms.

Aim: The overall aim of the study was to assess the reasons and experiences of participants involved in Antibody Mediated Prevention (AMP) HIV prevention clinical trial at University of North Carolina (UNC) Project, Lilongwe, Malawi. We determined the participants’ reasons for participating in HIV Prevention clinical trials; and the experiences of participants in HIV Prevention clinical trials. Methods: We adopted the qualitative cross-sectional study method. Data were collected using in-depth interviews (IDIs). Purposive sampling was used to select 12 study participants who consented to take part in the study. All participants were the ones taking part in the AMP HIV prevention study at the UNC Project. Data analysis was done concurrently with data collection using content analysis. Results: Individuals were motivated to participate in HIV research due to a range of perceived benefits. These included personal, health, and financial benefits. Participants' research experiences and their continued participation in HIV research were influenced by the research clinic context and the nature of their interactions with research staff. Conclusion: When the clinical trial study participants’ expectations are met through what they experience in the study, the chances of them adhering to the study visits and procedures are high. Even for those who did not have any expectations prior to the study, feeling welcomed and being able to open up to the study staff encouraged their continued participation. In the end, this outweighed the negative comments made by the people in their communities or their friends

The automobile industry is undergoing technological advancement, which includes breakthroughs such as hybrid cars, electric vehicles (EVs), and self-driving capabilities. However, despite these advances, issues remain, notably in recall management efficiency, security and risk of fraud. To solve these difficulties, the idea of Industry 4.0 has been adopted, which uses technologies such as sensors, IOT’s, and machine learning. Even this technology still has loopholes in the area of security which has been exploited negatively over time. In other to mitigate these loopholes we introduce Blockchain technology as a viable alternative, providing a safe and transparent environment. This study investigates and proposed the use of blockchain to create an enhanced Vehicle Tracking System (VTS) intended at enhancing recall management and reducing fraud in the automobile sector. The proposed solution was discussed in detail and a mock smart contract was also written, which was deployed on the Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM).

Lassa fever, commonly known as Lassa hemorrhagic fever (LHF), is one of the progressive illnesses invading a large population of two to three million individuals in West Africa. The infection transmitted through the rodents severely impacts the local population and the medical professionals in surrounding areas, which were also the primary target of LHF. In epidemic areas, Lassa fever causes a public health threat since it poses a significant morbidity and fatality Case rate (CFR) ≥ 50%). The disease is widespread in West Africa and has developed into one of the most common and life-threatening viral hemorrhagic fevers. Monitoring and preventing persistent disease outbreaks has been challenging in affected regions due to insufficient healthcare facilities, diagnostics labs, care centers, and low socioeconomic conditions. An absence of public awareness and the emergence of an ecological niche is advantageous for the survival and multiplication of the mouse (Mastomys natalensis) inhabiting the Lassa virus serving as the disease's natural host and reservoir. The current review focuses on early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, highlighting the immediate requirement of clinically approved vaccines for LHF, causing preventative and control actions more difficult in the present era.

South Africa is afflicted with the worst epidemic of HIV in the world a legacy of the system of oscillating migrant labour in the region and the consequent social disruption that was the legacy of Apartheid. The initial response from the national government was slow and ineffective but once the magnitude of the epidemic became apparent the government began to respond. The investment in HIV- and TB-related activities in 2013 was R22 Bn or (US$2.5; 2013 exchange rate) of which the South Africa government contributed 80% and the Presidents Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) 17%. South Africa now has the more people on anti-retroviral therapy than any other country and treatment is being started much sooner after infection. Much of the best biomedical, virological, immunological, mathematical and social science around the treatment and prevention of HIV and AIDS and the associated epidemic of TB has been done by South African’s and their international collaborators. If the efforts to control the epidemic are maintained South Africa is on track to meet the UNAIDS 90-90-90target by 2020 and to End AIDS by 2030 in spite of the magnitude of the problem. While individual, patient level data are increasingly available, especially in the Western Cape, much greater efforts need to be made to ensure that the information collected in this way is used to give feedback and support to clinic staff, to ensure that health clinics are providing the best possible service, and to individual patients and people living with HIV to ensure that they are receiving the best possible care and support. South Africa needs to make better use of the rich and detailed data that are being collected from individual clinics and their patients to identify problems or difficulties at the clinic level and to ensure that individual patients are retained on treatment, are virally suppressed and receive the best possible care and support.

Lifestyle is the primary prevention of diabetes, especially type-2 diabetes (T2D). Nutritional intake of olive oil (OO), the key Mediterranean diet component has been associated with the prevention and management of many chronic diseases including T2D. Several OO bioactive compounds such as monounsaturated fatty acids, and key polyphenols including hydroxytyrosol and oleuropein, have been associated with preventing inflammation and cytokine-induced oxidative damage, glucose lowering, reducing carbohydrate absorption and increasing insulin sensitivity and related gene expression. However, research into the interaction of OO nutraceuticals with lifestyle components, especially physical activity is lacking. Promising postprandial effects have been reported when OO or other similar monounsaturated fatty acids was the main dietary fat compared with other diets. Animal studies have shown a potential anabolic effect of oleuropein. Such effects could be further potentiated via exercise, especially strength training, which is an essential exercise prescription for individuals with T2D. There is also an evidence from in vitro, animal and limited human studies for a dual preventative role of OO polyphenols in diabetes and cancer, especially that they share similar risk factors. Putative anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory mechanisms and associated gene expressions resulting from OO phenolics, have produced paradoxical results making suggested inferences from dual prevention T2D and cancer outcomes difficult. Well-designed human interventions and clinical trials are needed to decipher such a potential dual anti-cancer and anti-diabetic effects of OO nutraceuticals. Exercise combined with OO consumption, individually or as part of a healthy diet is likely to induce reciprocal action for T2D prevention outcomes.

Suicide is a global public health concern that has enormous social and psychological 1 implications for individuals, families, and communities affected. While the rate of suicide in the 2 UK has remained steady over the years mainly due to the various approaches to detection and 3 management of suicidal ideation, it is still one of the main causes of mortality amongst people 4 between the age of 20 – 34 years. The recent global events such as the COVID-19 pandemic, global 5 warming, war, and various environmental catastrophes means that suicide and suicidal ideation 6 is expected to increase especially among younger people. Thus, evidence-based, population-wide 7 preventative approach will be needed to ameliorate the predicted increase in suicide. Also, to 8 understand the effects of some of the suicide prevention approaches, objective and universal risk 9 assessment approach is required. However, there is no universally accepted preventative approach 10 or tools of assessment. This review examines current advances in suicide prevention in the United 11 Kingdom. It examines the epidemiology, risk factors, as well as the strengths and limitations of 12 the various suicide risk assessment and prevention tools currently in use. We hope to obtain a 13 deeper understanding of how these approaches have evolved and their impact on enhancing mental 14 health and preventing suicide ideation in the UK. We present an in-depth review of existing suicide 15 prevention research and policies, while proposing areas for future research and improvement.16

Bacterial biofilms can cause widespread infection. In addition to causing urinary tract infections and pulmonary infections in patients with cystic fibrosis, biofilms can help microorganisms adhere to the surfaces of various medical devices, causing biofilm-associated infections on the surfaces of biomaterials such as venous ducts, joint prostheses, mechanical heart valves, and catheters. Biofilms provide a protective barrier for bacteria and provide resistance to antimicrobial agents, which increases the morbidity and mortality of patients. This review introduces the formation process and drug resistance mechanism of biofilms in detail, and further summarizes the main characteristics of clinical persistent infection caused by biofilms and the many methods of treating biomaterial-related biofilm. This provides ideas and directions for the development of new biofilm infection strategies related to therapeutic materials.

The most striking and dramatic catastrophe, as on April 2020, is - COVID - 19. Understanding of the COVID-19, the causing agent- the virus and the resultant causalities are still evolving. Till now, there is no specific treatment, no vaccine for the COVID-19. At this stage, what is utmost important now to face the disaster is to put emphasis on the preparedness and responses: research to discover vaccine, antivirals as soon as possible. Till then, it is necessary to put emphasis on infection preventive and control measures like to avoid close contact of infected people showing symptoms of respiratory diseases, hand hygiene and coughing etiquette. To make the infection preventive and control measures a success, the followings are to make success: ‘quarantine’ ‘isolation’, ‘travel bans’, ‘cordon sanitaire’ and ‘social distancing’ measures. The tools of modern information technology could help the authority to manage and monitor the preventive measures. Above all, preventive and control measures will not be successful if we fail to make aware the common people about the fatality of the COVID - 19. So, rapid preparedness and responses to COVID-19 are critically essential to face such disaster. Not a single moment is to waste!

Decomposition of natural and synthetic polymeric materials (peat, humates, biochar, strongly swelling hydrogels and other soil conditioners) in a biologically- and chemically- active soil environment inevitably leads to their degradation and ability to improve the structure, water-retention, absorptive capacity and actual fertility of artificial soil constructions in urbanized ecosystems and agro landscapes (constructozems). Quantitative assessment of the biodegradation process using field and laboratory incubation experiments, as well as mathematical modeling, showed the possibility of significant (up to 30-50% per year) losses of organic matter of constructozems and a corresponding deterioration in their quality. Incubation experiments with the analysis of carbon dioxide emission for polymeric materials under given thermodynamic conditions allow to estimate the potential rates of their decomposition (half-life) and their dependence on the dose of inhibitors of microbial activity. Special nomographs provide an opportunity to determine the optimum depth of the arrangement of organic components in soil constructions to ensure their stable functioning during a fixed operating time in urban conditions. The results of the study are useful for geo-engineers and landscaping practitioners.

Background: The COVID-19 outbreak has accelerated the huge difference between medical care and disease prevention in Chinese medical institutions. This study aimed to investigated the relationship between the symbiotic units, environments, models, and effects of the integration of medical and disease prevention. Methods: This cross-sectional study involved 762 employees of public hospitals in 11 cities in Zhejiang Province by random stratified sampling. We analyzed the influence paths of elements in the mechanism of integration of medical and disease prevention and the mediating effect of symbiotic models among symbiotic units, symbiotic environments, and effects for on this integration. Results: The path coefficient of symbiotic unit on the symbiosis model was 0.46 (p<.001), the path coefficient of symbiotic environment on symbiosis model was 0.52 (p<.001). The path coefficient of the symbiotic unit and environment was 0.91 (p<.001). The symbiotic models exhibited a partial mediation effect between symbiotic units and the effect of this integration. Sobel test = 3.27, β = 0.152, and the mediating effect accounted for 34.6%. Conclusions: It is suggested that Health policy-makers and public hospital managers should provide sufficient symbiotic units, establish collaborative symbiotic models, and improve the effects of integration of medical and disease prevention in public hospitals.

Recently, there has been growing interest in using smart eHealth systems to manage asthma. However, limitations still exist in providing smart services and accurate predictions tailored to individual patients’ needs. This study aims to develop an adaptive ubiquitous computing framework that leverages different bio-signals and spatial data to provide personalized asthma attack prediction and safe route recommendations. We proposed a smart eHealth framework consisting of multiple layers that employ telemonitoring application, environmental sensors, and advanced machine-learning algorithms to deliver smart services to the user. The proposed smart eHealth system predicts asthma attacks and uses spatial data to provide a safe route that drives the patient away from any asthma trigger. Additionally, the framework incorporates an adaptation layer that continuously updates the system based on real-time environmental data and daily bio-signals reported by the user. The developed telemonitoring application collected a dataset containing 665 records used to train the prediction models. The testing result demonstrates a remarkable 98% accuracy in predicting asthma attacks with a recall of 96%. The eHealth system was tested online by ten asthma patients, and its accuracy achieved 94% of accuracy and a recall of 95.2% in generating safe routes for asthma patients, ensuring a safer and asthma-trigger-free experience. The test shows that 89% of patients were satisfied with the safer recommended route than their usual one. This research contributes to enhancing the capabilities of smart healthcare systems in managing asthma and improving patient outcomes. The adaptive feature of the proposed eHealth system ensures that the predictions and recommendations remain relevant and personalized to the current conditions and needs of the individual.

Skin cancer is a condition characterized by the abnormal growth of skin cells, primarily caused by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or artificial sources like tanning beds. Different types of skin cancer include melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma. Despite the advancements in targeted therapies, there is still a need for a safer, highly efficient approach to preventing and treating cutaneous malignancies. Spices have a rich history dating back thousands of years and are renowned for their ability to enhance the flavor, taste, and color of food. Derived from various plant parts like seeds, fruits, bark, roots, or flowers, spices are important culinary ingredients. However, their value extends beyond the culinary realm. Some spices contain bioactive compounds, including phenolic compounds, which are known for their significant biological effects. These compounds have attracted attention in scientific research due to their potential health benefits, including their possible role in disease prevention and treatment, such as cancer. This review focuses on examining the potential of spice-derived phenolic compounds as preventive or therapeutic agents for managing skin cancers. By compiling and analyzing the available knowledge, this review aims to provide insights that can guide future research in identifying new anticancer phytochemicals and uncovering additional mechanisms for combating skin cancer.

GI endoscopy forms an important part in a daily practice of a gastroenterologist. Musculoskeletal injuries related to GI endoscopy are on the rise. Observational studies and surveys depict the importance of proper ergonomical environment when performing GI endoscopy. Our aim is to outline preventive measures in gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy in reducing possibility for occupational injury. We review most relevant studies that outline the gravity of the problem. A detailed analysis of proposed ergonomical recommendations is performed, outlining crucial steps in injury prevention. Proper ergonomical education is a key-step in preventing occupational injury. Robotics and other mechanical solutions offer a variety of approaches tackling the ergonomical challenge. Implementing proper ergonomical education and mechanical solutions lowers the possibility if occupational injury. Strategies and appliances presented are beneficial to all GI endoscopy practitioners.

: An innovative and stable probiotics-containing mucoadhesive gel (AL0020), integrated with botanical extracts, has been developed to rebalance the dysbiosis associated with periodontal diseases. Tau-Marin gel was tested against some pathogenic bacteria, belonging to the so-called "red complex", recognized as the most important pathogens in plaque specimens, adherent to the epithelial lining of periodontal pockets. A detailed physico-chemical profile of AL0020 and its in vitro efficacy in protecting activity against pathogenic bacteria as well as soothing or irritative effect on gingival epithelium were reported. Moreover, a clinical-dermatological trial on 20 volunteers using the product once a day for 30 days was also performed.

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease characterized by itching, impaired epidermal barrier function and unbalanced inflammatory response. The pathophysiology involves immune dysregulation, with a predominance of T-helper 2 cells. AD is triggered by many known and unknown factors, including oxidative stress. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) contribute to AD pathogenesis by causing cellular damage and inflammation. Moreover, increased oxidative stress in AD leads to hyperactivation of the MAP kinase pathway, extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) and p38, with DNA damage and subsequent skin barrier dysfunction. This narrative review provides a comprehensive overview of the role of natural antioxidant compounds, highlighting their potential therapeutic value in AD management. They include vitamin D, vitamin E, pyridoxine (vitamin B6), Vitamin C, carotenoids and melatonin, in AD. Despite some studies have shown an association between vitamin D, vitamin E, vitamin C and carotenoids levels and AD course, conflicting results exist. Pyridoxine supplementation has shown mixed results, and melatonin has demonstrated antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties in AD; in fact, melatonin treatment resulted in a decrease in symptoms in patients with AD, although no significant correlation with changes in sleep latency was reported. In addition, iron and zinc (Zn) supplementation can also improve AD symptoms. Further research is needed to elucidate the optimal use of these natural antioxidants in AD treatment

Background and aim: Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is sexually transmitted, one of the three most common sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in both males and females, and the most common viral STI. A crucial public health strategy to protect people against HPV is through vaccination, which has shown its effectiveness in preventing HPV related diseases. Presently three types of vaccines are available (bivalent, quadrivalent, and nonavalent) and they all target at least the two most oncogenic virus genotypes (HPV 16, 18). In the past few years, the need to implement vaccination programmes that include all genders has been discussed in order to achieve herd immunity against HPV. To date, only a few countries have included young males in their vaccination programmes, so we aim through this review to provide an overview of the epidemiology of HPV and prevention strategies to prevent it, reporting the latest findings from the scientific literature.

Mobile Cloud Computing(MCC) is a recent technology used by various users worldwide. In 2015, more than 240 million users used mobile cloud computing which gives a profit of $5.2 billion to service providers. MCC is a combination of Mobile computing and cloud computing. By the combination of these two, it gives various challenges like network access, elasticity, management, availability, security, privacy, etc. Here security issues are considered because both the security issues of mobile computing and cloud computing are considered as important like data security, virtualization security, partitioning security, Mobile cloud application security, Mobile device security. This paper gives a detailed study of security issues in mobile cloud computing and its prevention measures.

The antibiotic or antimicrobial resistance is rapidly spreading in microbes relevant to human health. Two visible major contributory factors have been the indiscriminate overuse of antimicrobials for preventing diseases in human and to enhance the productivity in agriculture sector. To mitigate the potential threat posed by post-antibiotic era, the global health stakeholders have been making extra efforts at a war footing to formulate and implement global and national plans of action. In the current article, an endeavour is made to provide a perspective to look beyond the current focus on just use of the antimicrobials. Attention has been drawn towards various obvious and not-so-obvious self-preservation infection-prevention practices in vogue from the pre-antibiotic era whose usage has been on decline in the antibiotic era for various reasons. Particularly, the practices with a clear potential to effectively decrease the spread of pathogens through contact, curtail the evolution and dissemination of the antimicrobial resistance in local environment and its introduction into the global community, should be Identified and strengthened to make them part of comprehensive hygiene and quarantine practices. Broadly, the suggestions pertaining to the personal and community hygiene including bereavement practices, isolation and quarantine of suspected pathogen carriers, and water and environment security have been made to invoke a constructive debate and discussion among various stakeholders for their evaluation and implementation to effectively delay the development of antimicrobial resistance wherever possible and disrupt its spread to pathogens.

Load balancing, energy efficiency and fault tolerance are among the most important data dissemination issues in Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs). In order to successfully cope with the mentioned issues, two main approaches (namely, Data-centric Storage and Distributed Data Storage) have been proposed in the literature. Both approaches suffer from data loss due to memory and/or energy depletion in the storage nodes. Even though several techniques have been proposed so far to overcome the mentioned problems, the proposed solutions typically focus on one issue at a time. In this paper, we integrate the Data-centric Storage (DCS) features into Distributed Data Storage (DDS) mechanisms and present a novel approach, denoted as Collaborative Memory and Energy Management (CoMEM), to overcome both problems and bring memory and energy efficiency to the data loss mechanism of WSNs. We also propose analytical and simulation frameworks for performance evaluation. Our results show that the proposed method outperforms existing approaches in various WSN scenarios.

This paper reports the efforts made and experiences gained in developing the Flood Prevention and Emergency Response System (FPERS) powered by Google Earth Engine, with focus on its applications at the three stages of floods. At the post-flood stage, FPERS integrates various remote sensing imageries, including Formosat-2 optical imagery, to detect and monitor barrier lakes, synthetic aperture radar imagery to derive an inundation map, and high-spatial-resolution photographs taken by unmanned aerial vehicles to evaluate damage to river channels and structures. At the pre-flood stage, a huge amount of geospatial data are integrated in FPERS and are categorized as typhoon forecast and archive, disaster prevention and warning, disaster events and analysis, or basic data and layers. At the during-flood stage, three strategies are implemented to facilitate the access of the real-time data: presenting the key information, making a sound recommendation, and supporting the decision-making. The example of Typhoon Soudelor in August of 2015 is used to demonstrate how FPERS was employed to support the work of flood prevention and emergency response from 2013 to 2016. The capability of switching among different topographic models and the flexibility of managing and searching data through a geospatial database are also explained, and suggestions are made for future works.

Landslides, resulting from disturbances in slope equilibrium, pose a significant threat to landscapes, infrastructure, and human life. Triggered by factors such as intense precipitation, seismic activities, or volcanic eruptions, these events can cause extensive damage and endanger nearby communities. A comprehensive understanding of landslide characteristics, including spatio-temporal patterns, dimensions, and morphology, is vital for effective landslide-disaster management. Existing Remote Sensing approaches mostly use either optical or Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) sensors. Integrating information from both these types of sensors promises greater accuracy for identifying and locating landslides. This study proposes a novel approach, the ML-LaDeCORsat (Machine Learning-based coseismic Landslide Detection using Combined Optical and Radar Satellite Imagery), that integrates freely available Sentinel-1, Palsar-2, and Sentinel-2 imagery data, along with relevant spectral indices and suitable bands using machine-learning-based classification for coseismic landslide detection implemented in Google Earth Engine (GEE). The approach includes a robust and reproducible training and validation strategy. Using landslides from four different earthquake case studies, we demonstrate the superiority of our approach over existing solutions in coseismic landslide iden-tification and localization, providing a detection accuracy of 87-92%. ML-LaDeCORsat can be adapted to other landslide events (GEE script is provided). Transfer learning experiments proofed that our model can be applied to other coseismic landslide events without the need for additional training data. Our novel approach therefore facilitates quick and reliable identification of co-seismic landslides, highlighting its potential to contribute towards more effective disaster management.

In the continued battle against one of the oldest enemies known to mankind, Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB), the emergence of drug resistance among children poses multiple challenges for early detection and treatment. Molecular diagnostics and newer drugs like bedaquiline and delamanid have strengthened the armamentarium and helped design convenient, safe and child-friendly therapeutic regimens against drug-resistant tuberculosis (TB). Preventive strategies like treatment of TB infection among children living in close contact with patients with drug-resistant TB and effective vaccines against TB are currently in the investigative stages of development and implementation. In addition to the implementation of recent novel diagnostics and treatment modalities, effective psychosocial and nutritional support, as well as dedicated monitoring for compliance and adverse effects, are crucial determinants for successful treatment outcomes in these children.

Metabolic syndrome, diabetes and ischemic heart disease are among the leading causes of death and disability in Western countries. Diabetic cardiomyopathy is responsible for the most severe signs and symptoms. An important strategy for reducing the incidence of cardiovascular disease is regular exercise. Remote ischemic conditioning has some similarity with exercise, and can be induced by short periods of ischemia and reperfusion of a limb, and it can be performed in people who cannot exercise. There is abundant evidence that exercise is beneficial in diabetes and ischemic heart disease, but there is a need to elucidate the specific cardiovascular effects of emerging and unconventional forms of exercise in people with diabetes. Also, remote ischemic conditioning may be considered among the options to induce beneficial effects in these patients. The characteristics and interactions of diabetes and ischemic heart disease, and the known effects of exercise and remote ischemic conditioning in the presence of metabolic syndrome and diabetes, are analyzed in this brief review.

Understanding and preventing the “great obstetrical syndromes” has been the focus of pregnancy research for decades. The combined global impact from these syndromes on maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality is compounded by increased long-term risk of adverse health effects following pregnancy. Accumulating evidence indicates that conditions such as pre-eclampsia, fetal growth restriction, spontaneous preterm labour, and stillbirth, are syndromes with etiologic heterogeneity that share common pathophysiologic pathways involving placental dysfunction. Recently, the importance of the interaction between fetal and maternal genomes has been extended to include the epigenetic impact of pre-existing maternal pathophysiology on placental development and highlights the importance of nutritional and environmental factors in altered placentation. Validated first-trimester screening algorithms for preeclampsia can identify high-risk women and prophylactic treatment with low-dose aspirin can be initiated. High-risk women can be monitored during the second trimester using clinical assessment, ultrasound, and biochemical markers, that are able to predict complications prior to the development of clinical signs and symptoms. The integration of lifestyle interventions, pregnancy screening, and medical management represents a conceptual advance in pregnancy care. This approach has the potential to significantly reduce pregnancy complications, maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality, adverse health outcomes later in life, and health-care costs.

IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS) supports high-speed transmission of multi-media like data, audio, and video between mobiles and other wireless devices. IMS is the most suitable for multimedia communication across multiple networks using the Internet of Things (IoT) and cloud computing. IoT-IMS can efficiently manage the huge amount of data generated by smart devices for audio-video during live streaming applications. During these services, the main problem is that an intruder can launch a Session Initialization Protocol (SIP) messages flooding attack on IMS that does not have the functionality to prevent itself from these types of attacks. In this paper, an intrusion detecting and preventing system (IDPS) is proposed that effectively detects the register flooding and spoofing attacks using SIP messages. We proposed a watermark embedding algorithm on the user side and an extraction algorithm on receiving side. A test-bed is set up for IMS where we have considered four different scenarios to evaluate the IDPS approach as compared to counterparts. Results illustrate the dominance of our scheme in terms of response time, register flooding attack detection ratios, CPU load utilization, fault detection ratio, and memory utilization. The fault detection ratio averagely 98.18

The purpose of this study is to analyze the causes of cost variation in natural disaster prevention projects (NDPP) in Gyeongsangbuk-do and to develop effective cost and risk management strategies. The study collected data by conducting an online survey of 244 stakeholders. Binary logistic regression was used to analyze the impact of various variables on cost deviation, in-cluding project management risk (PMR), project costing and execution risk (PCER), project exe-cution strategy risk (PESR), construction project risk (CPR), project cost and schedule risk (PCSR), project management challenges (PMC), and construction project subcontractor and safety man-agement (CPSSM). The results showed that PMR (OR=3.744, 95% C.I. [1.657, 8.457]), PCER (OR=5.068, 95% C.I. [2.236, 11.484]), PESR (OR=3.447, 95% C.I. [1. 853, 6.413]), CPR (OR=2.292, 95% C.I. [1.020, 5.151]), PCSR (OR=4.817, 95% C.I. [2.250, 10.317]), PMC (OR=2.954, 95% C.I. [1.452, 6. 013]), and CPSSM (OR=2.419, 95% C.I. [1.297, 4.515]) had statistically significant effects on cost deviation. In particular, PMR, PCER, and PESR were identified as the main causes, and the effects of additional factors such as CPSSM were also important. The developed predictive model plays an important role in helping stakeholders of NDPP to manage risks in advance and take appro-priate preventive measures to ensure the success of the project. This study empirically supports the theoretical hypotheses of previous studies and provides a clear understanding of the causes of cost deviation in NDPP, which provides important insights for strategic decision-making and provides a new perspective on risk management.

Several noninvasive vascular biomarkers have been suggested for improving the risk stratification for atherothrombotic events. To identify biomarkers suitable for detecting intermediate-risk individuals who might benefit from lipid-lowering treatment (L-LT) in primary prevention, the present study tested the association of plasma LDL-cholesterol with coronary artery calcification (CAC) Agatston score, high carotid and femoral intima-media thickness (IMT), low carotid distensibility and high carotid-femoral pulse-wave velocity in 260 asymptomatic individuals at intermediate cardiovascular risk and free of diabetes and L-LT. High or low vascular biomarkers were considered when their value was above the 95th or below the 5th percentile, respectively, of the distribution in the healthy or in the study population. LDL-cholesterol was independently associated with the CAC score =0 (OR 0.67; 95%CI 0.48-0.92, P=0.01), CAC score >100 (1.59; 1.08-2.39, P=0.01) and with high femoral IMT (1.89; 1.19-3.06, P<0.01), but not with other biomarkers. Our data confirm that in the presence of CAC score =0 in individuals at intermediate risk, L-LT can be avoided, while it should be used in those with CAC score >100. Femoral artery IMT could represent a useful biomarker for decision regarding L-LT, however the reference values according to sex and age should be established in a large healthy population

Insulin resistance, as a common pathological process of many metabolic diseases, including diabetes and obesity, has attracted much attention due to its relevant influencing factors. To date, studies have mainly focused on the mechanisms between mitochondrial stress and insulin resistance, and they are now pursued as a very attractive therapeutic target due to their extensive involvement in many human clinical settings. In view of the complex pathogenesis of diabetes, natural drugs have become new players in diabetes prevention and treatment because of their wide targets and few side effects. In particular, plant phenolics have been paid more attention because of their close relationship with oxidative stress. In this review, we briefly review the mechanisms by which mitochondrial stress leads to insulin resistance. Moreover, we list some cytokines and genes that have recently been found to play roles in mitochondrial stress and insulin resistance. Furthermore, we describe several natural drugs that are currently widely used and give a brief overview of their therapeutic mechanisms. Finally, we suggest possible ideas for future research related to the unique role that natural drugs play in the treatment of insulin resistance through the above targets.

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a prevalent condition among postmenopausal women that can lead to severe liver dysfunction and increased mortality. In recent years, research has focused on identifying potential lifestyle dietary interventions that may prevent or treat NAFLD in this population. Due to the complex and multifactorial nature of NAFLD in postmenopausal women, the disease can present as different subtypes, with varying levels of clinical presentation, and variable treatment responses. By recognizing the significant heterogeneity of NAFLD in postmenopausal women, it may be possible to identify specific subsets of individuals who may benefit from targeted nutritional interventions. In this review, we sought to examine the current evidence supporting the role of three specific nutritional factors - choline, soy isoflavones, and probiotics – as potential nutritional adjuvants in the prevention and treatment of NAFLD in postmenopausal women. There is promising evidence supporting the potential benefits of these nutritional factors for NAFLD prevention and treatment, particularly in postmenopausal women, and further research is warranted to confirm their effectiveness in alleviating hepatic steatosis in this population.

A pandemic can have a huge impact on normal human life and the economy, taking COVID-19 as an example. While the population flow between countries and regions is the main factor affecting the change of a pandemic, exactly as the airline network. Therefore, realizing the overall control of airports is an effective way to control a pandemic. However, restricted to the differences in prevention and control policies in different areas and privacy issues, the patients’ personal data of the medical center cannot be effectively combined with the passengers’ personal data. This prevents more precise airport control decisions from being made. To the end, this paper designs a novel data sharing framework (i.e., PPChain) based on blockchain and federated learning. The experiment shows that the relationship between the epidemic and aircraft transport can be effectively explored by PPChain, without sharing raw data. This approach does not require centralized trust and improves the security of the shareing process.The scheme can help formulate more scientific and rational prevention and control policies on airports’ control. And it can use aerial data to predict pandemics more accurately.

Background: In long-term care facilities, there are many residents who do not have the ability to seek shelter by themselves in the case of an emergency. Thus, it is extremely important that the staff of nursing homes are equipped with correct disaster prevention concepts, emergency survival responses, and hazard mitigation measures. Purpose: Discuss the intervention effectiveness of different fire prevention and emergency response trainings at nursing homes and the relationship and predictivity of awareness to self-efficacy. Method: Recruit staff from two nursing homes through purposive sampling, using a two-team pre-and post-test design to collect results from 41 individuals in the experiment group and 40 individuals in the control group. The research tool is the “Nursing Home Fire Prevention and Emergency Response Awareness and Self-Efficacy Scale,” to compare the effectiveness of advanced and general fire safety trainings. Result: After receiving improved advanced fire safety training, the total score and the result of the experiment group on fire prevention and emergency response awareness and self-efficacy had both performed better than the control group who received general fire safety training (p < .001); fire prevention and emergency response awareness has significant and positive correlation with self-efficacy (r=.601, p < .001), and awareness is a significant predictor variable to self-efficacy (p < .001). Conclusion/Practical Application: This study finds that the key to improving learning effectiveness includes adding fire science concept chapter when creating fire safety training material in order to strengthen basic awareness; fire safety training should comprehensively introduce all related duty responsibilities of staff fire defense formation, in turn enabling mutual responsive support for the needs of the site; also, to become familiarized with the knowledge requires appropriate frequency of training and enhancing the staff’s awareness to fire prevention and emergency response, which is the most important key of learning effectiveness.

Methotrexate (MTX) is a potent drug for the treatment of various diseases globally amidst being a chemotherapeutic and immunosuppressant agent. However, hepatotoxicity induced by MTX could be life-threatening if left untreated. Folate supplementation is concurrently applied to reduce the adverse effects of MTX, albeit efficacy compromise. Therefore, there is the need to understand the process for the prevention and treatment strategies for MTX induced hepatotoxicity (MIH). In recent times, preliminary preclinical and clinical findings indicate the potential of natural phytobioactive compounds for MIH prevention and treatment. This mini review therefore summarizes proposed mechanisms of MIH and recent advances in the prevention and treatment prospects of natural phytobioactive compounds on MIH.

In western societies about one in six employees works in shifts. Shiftwork is associated with a number of poor somatic and psychological health outcomes, especially sleep issues. Higher rates of absenteeism and accidents in the workplace are possible consequences. Still, prevention programs and treatment options that are specifically tailored to shift workers’ needs are rare. We devised a 4-week online sleep intervention (n = 21) and compared treatment outcomes to our outpatient treatment for shift workers (n = 12). Measures included the WHO-5, ISI, and ESS scales as well as sleep diaries. Shift workers reported worse symptoms of insomnia than other participants. Results show significant average increases in sleep efficiency (+ 7%) and total sleep time (+ 25 min.), as well as significant improvements regarding insomnia symptoms and wellbeing in the online sample. Rates of improvement did not differ between the online and outpatient samples. Sleep disorders affect a relevant part of the working population, especially shift workers. Online approaches to treatment of these issues seem feasible and effective. Randomized controlled trials are needed.

Green Tea Catechins (GTCs) are a family of chemically related compounds usually classified as antioxidant molecules. Epidemiological evidences, supported by interventional studies, highlighted a more than promising role for GTCs in human Prostate Cancer (PCa) chemoprevention.In the last decades many efforts have been made to gain new insights into the mechanism of action of GTCs. Now it is clear that GTCs anticancer action can no longer be simplistically limited to their direct antioxidant/pro-oxidant properties. Recent contributions to the advancement of knowledge in this field have shown that GTCs specifically interact with cellular targets including, cell surface receptors, lipid rafts and endoplasmic reticulum, modulate gene expression through direct effect on transcription factors or indirect epigenetic mechanisms, interfere with intracellular proteostasis at various levels. Many of the effects observed in vitro are dose and cell context dependent and take place at concentration that cannot be achieved in vivo.Poor intestinal absorption together with an extensive systemic and enteric metabolism influence GTCs bioavailability through still poor understood mechanisms. Recent efforts to develop delivery systems that increase GTCs overall bioavailability, by mean of biopolymeric nanoparticles, represent the main way to translate preclinical results in a real clinical scenario for PCa chemoprevention.

Flavan-3-ols and their oligomeric forms called proanthocyanidins are polyphenolic compounds occurring in several foodstuffs and in many medicinal herbs. Their consumption is associated with numerous health benefits. Their bioactivities include antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, cytoprotective, as well as antimicrobial. The latter property is important in prevention and treatment of periodontal diseases. Periodontitis is a multifactorial polymicrobial infection characterized by a destructive inflammatory process affecting the periodontium. Using non-toxic and efficient natural products such as flavanol derivatives can significantly contribute to alleviating of periodontitis symptoms and prevent the disease progress. In this paper, we systematically review the state-of-the art in antibacterial effects of these compounds from the viewpoint of gum health. There is a significant evidence supporting an importance of antibacterial action exerted by proanthocyanidins from edible fruits, tea and medicinal herbs in inhibition of periodontitis-causing pathogens.

A novel coronavirus COVID-19 was first emerged in Wuhan city of Hubei Province in China in December 2019. The COVID-19, since then spreads to 213 countries and territories, and has become a pandemic. Genomic analyses have indicated that the virus, popularly named as corona, originated through a natural process and is probably not a purposefully manipulated laboratory construct. However, currently available data are not sufficient to precisely conclude the origin of this fearsome virus. Genome-wide annotation of thousands of genomes revealed that more than 1,407 nucleotide mutations and 722 amino acids replacements occurred at different positions of the SARS-CoV-2. The spike (S) glycoprotein of SARS-CoV-2 possesses a functional polybasic (furin) cleavage site at the S1-S2 boundary through the insertion of 12 nucleotides. It leads to the predicted acquisition of 3-O-linked glycan around the cleavage site. Although real-time RT-PCR methods targeting specific gene(s) have widely been used to diagnose the COVID-19 patients, however, recently developed more convenient, rapid, and specific diagnostic tools targeting IgM/IgG or newly developed plug and play methods should be available for resource-poor developing countries. Some drugs, vaccines and therapies have shown great promise in early trials, however, these candidates of preventive or therapeutic agents have to pass a long path of trials before being released for the practical application against COVID-19. This review updates current knowledge on origin, genomic evolution, development of the diagnostic tools and the preventive or therapeutic remedies of the COVID-19, and discusses on scopes for further research and effective management and surveillance of COVID-19.

Based on a wealth of evidence, aspirin is one of the cornerstones of secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease. However, despite several studies showing efficacy also in primary prevention, an unopposed excess risk of bleeding leading to a very thin safety margin is evident in subjects without a clear acute cardiovascular event. Overall, the variability in recommendations from different scientific societies for aspirin use in primary prevention is a classic example of failure of simple risk stratification models based on competing risks (atherothrombosis vs. bleeding), perceived to be opposed but intertwined at the pathophysiological level. Notably, cardiovascular risk is dynamic in nature and cannot be accurately captured by scores, which do not always consider risk enhancers. Furthermore, the widespread use of other potent medications in primary prevention, such as lipid-lowering and anti-hypertensive drugs, might have reduced the benefit of aspirin in recent trials. Some authors, drawing from specific pathophysiological data, have suggested that specific subgroups might benefit more from aspirin. This includes patient with diabetes and those with obesity, as well as considering sex-based differences. Moreover, molecular analysis of platelet reactivity has been proposed. A beneficial effect of aspirin has also been demonstrated for the prevention of cancer, especially colorectal. This review explores evidence and controversies concerning the use of aspirin in primary prevention, considering new perspectives in order to develop a personalized approach.

The movement toward prevention trials in people at-risk for Parkinson’s is rapidly becoming a reality. The authors of this article include a genetically at-risk advocate with the LRRK2 G2019S variant and two patients with rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder (RBD), one of whom has now been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease (PD). These authors participated as speakers, panelists, and moderators in the “Planning for Prevention of Parkinson’s: A Trial Design Forum” hosted by Massachusetts General Hospital in 2021 and 2022. Other authors include a young onset person with Parkinson’s (PwP) and retired family physician, an expert in patient engagement in Parkinson’s, and early career and veteran movement disorders clinician researchers. Several themes emerged from the at-risk participant voice concerning the importance of early intervention, the legitimacy of their input in decision-making, and the desire for transparent communication and feedback throughout the entire research study process. Challenges and opportunities in the current environment include lack of awareness among primary care physicians and general neurologists about PD risk, legal and psychological implications of risk disclosure, limited return of individual research study results, and undefined engagement and integration of individuals at-risk into the broader Parkinson’s community. Incorporating the perspectives of individuals at-risk as well as those living with PD at this early stage of prevention trial development is crucial to success.

Osteoporosis is characterized by low bone mass and structural deterioration of bone tissue with increased risk of fracture. The population that is most at risk for primary osteoporosis in-cludes post-menopausal women. Among different approaches, nutraceuticals are increasingly popular in developed countries since can contribute to bone health and can delay the onset of pathological bone loss. Our review covers three main aspects. Firstly, we discuss the current state of the two con-ditions, osteopenia, and osteoporosis. Secondly, we focus on the latest developments in natural Nutraceuticals and their effectiveness in reducing bone loss. Finally, we conduct a Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats (SWOT) analysis to examine the pros and cons of Nutraceuticals assumption. Nutraceuticals hold great promise, but we must address challenges such as regulatory control and experimental evidence to fully realize their potential. Other challenges include identifying the source of raw materials, ensuring the purity of the compound, avoiding contamination or the presence of other active compounds, maintaining product quality, and preventing interactions with other elements or drugs. By addressing these challenges, the scientific community can ensure more reliable indica-tions for the use of Nutraceuticals and help people lead healthier lives.

The current clinical model for genetic-testing is based on clinical-criteria/family-history(FH) and a pre-defined mutation probability threshold. It requires people to develop cancer before identifying unaffected individuals in the family to target prevention. This process is inefficient, resource intense and misses >50% of individuals/mutation carriers at risk. Population genetic-testing can overcome these limitations. It is technically feasible to test populations on a large scale; genetic-testing costs are falling and the acceptability/awareness is rising. MEDLINE/EMBASE/Pubmed/CINAHL/PsychINFO databases were searched using a free-text and MeSH terms; reference lists of publications retrieved screened; additionally web-based platforms, Google, and clinical-trial registries were searched. Quality of studies were evaluated using appropriate check-lists. A number of studies have evaluated population-based BRCA-testing in the Jewish-population. This has been found to be acceptable, feasible, clinically-effective, safe, associated with high satisfaction rates and extremely cost-effective. Data support change in guidelines to population-based BRCA-testing in the Jewish-population. Population panel-testing for BRCA1/BRCA2/RAD51C/RAD51D/BRIP1/PALB2 gene mutations is the most cost-effective genetic-testing strategy in general-population women and can prevent thousands more breast/ovarian cancers than current clinical-criteria based approaches. A few ongoing studies are evaluating population-based genetic-testing for multiple cancer susceptibility genes in the general-population but more implementation studies are needed. A future population-testing programme could also target other chronic diseases.

Background: Although antiretroviral therapy (ART) effectively halt disease progression in HIV infections, complete eradiation of the virus remains elusive. Additionally, challenges such as long-term ART toxicity, drug resistance, and the demanding regimen of daily and lifelong ad-herence required by ART highlight the imperative need for alternative therapeutic and preventa-tive approaches. In recent years, broadly neutralizing antibodies (bNAbs) have emerged as promising candidates, offering potential for therapeutic, preventative and possibly curative in-terventions against HIV infection. Objective: This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the current state of knowledge regarding the passive immunization of bNAbs in HIV-1 infected individuals. Main findings: Recent findings from clinical trials have highlighted the potential of bNAbs in treatment, prevention, and in the quest of an HIV-1 cure. While monotherapy with a single bNAb is insufficient in maintaining viral suppression and preventing viral escape, ultimately leading to viral rebound, combination therapy with potent, non-overlapping epitope-targeting bNAbs have demonstrated prolonged viral suppression and delayed time to rebound by effec-tively restricting the emergence of escape mutations, albeit largely in individuals with bNAb-sensitive strains. Additionally, passive immunization of bNAb have provided ‘proof-of-concept’ for antibody-mediated prevention against HIV-1 acquisition, although com-plete prevention was not obtained. Therefore, further research on the use of bNAbs in HIV-1 treatment and prevention remains imperative.

Monkeypox virus belongs to the Orthopoxvirus genus, which belongs to the Poxviridae family. The Monkeypox virus is responsible to cause monkeypox, a developing zoonotic disease that has been identified as the most common orthopoxvirus infection in humans in the post-eradication era of smallpox. The virus can be transmitted by a variety of animals, including monkeys and rodents as well as person-to-person. Monkeypox has a clinical presentation that is quite similar to smallpox but mortality is low, in that the febrile prodrome is followed by a period of skin eruption. Monkeypox cases have extended outside the forests of central Africa, where they were first discovered, to other regions of the globe, where they have been imported. This pattern of transmission is most likely related to a global reduction in orthopoxvirus immunity following the discontinuation of smallpox vaccination in 1980, when smallpox was proclaimed eliminated. As a result, monkeypox might become the very common orthopoxvirus infection that affect humans. The emergence of epidemics outside of Africa emphasizes the disease's global significance. Increased monitoring and identification of monkeypox cases are critical tools for gaining a better knowledge of the disease's ever-changing epidemiology.

This work deals with a systematic review of literature data concerning the theme of the integrated approach to occupational health and safety management, with particular reference to the programming of assistance plans, which guide the company's organizational choices also by aiming at the principles of the Total Worker Health. In the current regulatory framework on this issue, the UNI ISO 45001: 2018 standard assumes particular relevance, which defines the dynamic approach to occupational health and safety management systems, paying particular attention to external contextual factors that may influence corporate organizational decisions. The adoption of these systems is not mandatory, but allows companies to fulfill their duties in terms of health and safety at work, through an organizational approach aimed at awareness, involvement and participation of all subjects of the company prevention system, overcoming the phase of the mere technological and prescriptive approach, towards a holistic vision of prevention, which places the person at the center of preventive actions. In this context, the role of institutional networks and socio-economic partnerships assumes particular importance, in the activation of territorial assistance interventions to support companies for the improvement of risk management levels. To this end, the importance of verifying the effectiveness of assistance interventions emerges from the scientific debate, through the use of indicators such as quantitative ones for measuring the performance of all phases of the intervention with particular attention to the effects in terms of improved solutions developed.

This study describes the AMD impacted environments and critically discusses the effects of AMD, current prediction and prevention methods and treatment technologies. The study further, crit-ically analyses the case studies, gaps in AMD research and the challenges and opportunities of-fered by AMD. The study outlined future technological intervention aiming at a paradigm shift towards reducing the volume of sludge generated as well as the operating cost and improving AMD treatment efficiency. The integrated AMD treatment technologies that result in a holistic approach toward sustainable AMD treatment are a current need. As a result, a sustainable AMD treatment strategy has been made possible due to water reuse and rich resource recoveries such sulphuric acid, rare earth elements, and metals. The cost of AMD treatment can be decreased with the use of recovered water and resources, which is essential for developing a sustainable AMD treatment process.

Our objective was to evaluate whether pregnancy is prolonged by use of a proteomics-based maternal serum screening test followed by treatment interventions. This is a secondary analysis of the PREVENT-PTB randomized trial comparing screening with the PreTRM test versus no screening. The primary trial analysis found no significant between-group difference in preterm birth rate. Rather than considering a dichotomous outcome (preterm vs term), we treated gestational age at birth as a continuous variable using survival analysis. We also evaluated between-group difference in NICU length of stay and duration of respiratory support. Results indicated that pregnancy was significantly prolonged in subjects screened with PreTRM test compared to controls (adjusted hazard ratio 0.53, 95% confidence interval 0.36-0.78, P &lt;0.01). Newborns of screened subjects had significantly shorter NICU stay but no significant decrease in duration of respiratory support. In the PreTRM screen-positive group, interventions that were associated with pregnancy prolongation included care management and low-dose aspirin but not 17-hydroxyprogesterone caproate. We concluded that screening with the PreTRM test followed by interventions for screen-positive pregnancies can prolong pregnancy and reduce NICU-LOS.

Child sexual abuse inflicts lifelong devastating consequences for victims and is an ongoing social concern. In most countries, child sexual abuse material (CSAM) distribution is illegal. As a result, there are many research papers in the literature which proposed technologies to detect and investigate CSAM. In this survey, a comprehensive search of the peer-reviewed journal and conference paper databases (including preprints) is conducted to identify high-quality literature. We use the PRISMA methodology to refine our search space to 2,761 papers published by Springer, Elsevier, IEEE and ACM. After iterative reviews of title, abstract and full text for relevance to our topics, 43 papers are included for full review. Our paper provides a comprehensive synthesis of the tasks of the current research and how the papers use techniques and datasets to solve their tasks and evaluate their models. To the best of our knowledge, we are the first to focus exclusively on online CSAM detection and prevention with no geographic boundaries, and the first survey to review papers published after 2018. It can be used by researchers to identify gaps in knowledge and relevant publicly available datasets that may be useful for their research.

Obesity is one of the greatest health challenges facing today’s adolescents. Dietary interventions are the foundation of obesity prevention and management. As adolescents are digital frontrunners and early adopters of technology, digital health interventions appear the most practical modality for dietary behaviour change interventions. Despite the rapid growth in digital health interventions, effective engagement with adolescents remains a pertinent issue. Key strategies for effective engagement include co-designing interventions with adolescents, personalisation of interventions, and just-in-time adaptation using data from wearable devices. The aim of this paper is to appraise these strategies, which may be used to improve effective engagement and thereby improve the dietary behaviours of adolescents now and in the future.

Standardized protocols were specifically designed and developed for clinical information collection and obtaining trio genomic information from infants affected with congenital anomalies (CA) and their parents, as well as securing human biological resources. Two large areas of these protocols include clinical and genomic information collection on CA which were difficult to diagnose using pre-existing screening methods. The following are three essential items for the clinical information collection protocol: establishment of a consent system for collecting and utilizing research resources, establishment of criteria for target patient selection, and collection of clinical and epidemiological information. A total of 138 cases consisting of 45 families of infants with CA and their parent trios have provided human-derived resources and genomic information. Whole genome sequencing data have been generated for all participants, and standardized protocols for resource collection and manufacturing have been developed. Phenotype information according to the Human Phenotype Ontology term and major test findings were recorded. It is important to keep updating and recording clinical symptoms and genetic diagnosis that are newly added or changed over time. The unique significance of this study is to develop a protocol that enables long-term tracking by adding growth and development tests that reflect important characteristics of newborns. By using these clinical and genetic information collection protocols for CA, it will be possible to establish an essential platform for early genetic diagnosis and diagnostic research, and further present new genetic diagnostic guidelines in the near future.

Diabetes and mental disorders have been recognized as two significant public health concerns globally. Recent research indicates that there is a bidirectional relationship between these two conditions, with each influencing the other's course and outcomes. Nutrition plays an essential role in the prevention and treatment of both mental disorders and diabetes. A comprehensive review of existing literature was conducted to examine the impact of anxiety and depression on the development of diabetes and the influence of diabetes on the occurrence of mental health disorders such as anxiety and depression. Additionally, the effects of nutrition on the prevention and management of mental disorders, diabetes, and related complications in at risk individuals were assessed. Our findings show that mental disorders, such as depression and anxiety increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes and are associated with poorer glycemic control, increased diabetes-related complications, and higher mortality rates. Conversely, diabetes is also linked with an increased risk of developing mental health disorders, including depression, anxiety, and cognitive decline. The biological, psychological, and social factors that contribute to the comorbidity between these two conditions are complex and multifaceted. Therefore, an integrated approach to the management of both conditions is critical for improving patient outcomes and reducing the overall burden of disease. Nutritional interventions should be utilized to reduce the risk of diabetes in patients with anxiety and depression as well as enhance mental health in patients with diabetes.

As a result of an increasing population of aged people in sub-Saharan Africa, dementia is predicted to surge up to 90% by 2030. This review is set to assess the prevalence of dementia, for 65+ aged population in sub-Saharan states and particularly in Tanzania. Subsequently, the review will identify the possible risks factors – age, gender, level of education, cardiovascular problems, diabetes and mild cognitive impairment – and will lay out the challenges of reducing the dementia burden in Tanzania. Additionally, the review explores the current approaches in solving dementia disorders, including a general view of the public understanding of dementia. Also, the review recognises the gaps in government funding to mental health, a barrier to service access and the need for further research on Alzheimer’s and other dementias. Lastly, the review links the sustainable development goals (SDGs) addressed and appreciate the impact of the coronavirus pandemic on the fight against dementia.

Since the water-borne iodine excessive goiter was firstly found and reported in 19 in Hebei Province, it was confirmed successively. The national water-borne investigation carried out in 2005 demarcated the water-borne iodine excess areas and water-borne iodine excess endemial areas. The high iodine water well was found In 129 counties of 11 provinces, about 30.98 million people of threatened population lived in water-borne iodine excess areas and water borne iodine excess endemial areas. In these areas, the measures of prevention and control was effectively implemented. In 2016, the new standard of iodine excess area was issued, the iodine excess areas redrawed, and in these areas, non-iodized salt should be supplied and the drinking water should be gradually improved of water, and to control the damage of water-borne iodine excess at an early date

A drug repositioning effort supported the possible use of the anti-HIV drug etravirine as a treatment for Friedreich Ataxia (FRDA). Etravirine increases frataxin protein and corrects the biochemical defects in cells derived from FRDA patients. Because of these findings, and since etravirine displays a favorable safety profile, we conducted this pilot open-label phase 2 clinical trial assessing the safety and potential efficacy of etravirine in FRDA patients. Thirty-five patients were stratified into 3 severity groups and randomized to etravirine 200 mg/day or 400 mg/day. They were treated for 4 months. Efficacy endpoints were represented by changes in peak oxygen uptake and workload as measured by incremental exercise test, SARA score, cardiac measures, measures of QoL and disability. Data were collected 4 months before the start of the treatment (T-4), at the start (T0), at the end (T4) and 4 months after the termination of the treatment (T+4). Etravirine was well tolerated. Etravirine completely stopped the progression of the SARA score during the 4-months treatment period, compared to the 4 months pre and post treatment. It increased peak workload, while the improvement of peak oxygen uptake was not statistically significant. No changes in the cardiac measures were observed. Health and QoL measures showed a worsening at the suspension of the drug. In this open trial etravirine significantly improved neurological function and was generally safe and reasonably tolerated. This suggests that etravirine represents a potential therapeutic agent in FRDA deserving testing in a randomized placebo controlled clinical trial.

Aquaculture assumes a pivotal role in meeting the escalating global food demand, and shrimp farming, in particular, holds indispensable significance for the global economy and food security, providing a rich source of nutrients for human consumption. Nonetheless, the industry faces formidable challenges, primarily attributed to disease outbreaks, and the diminishing efficacy of conventional disease management approaches, such as antibiotic usage. Consequently, there is an urgent imperative to explore alternative strategies to ensure the sustainability of the industry. In this context, the burgeoning field of epigenetics emerges as a promising avenue for combating infectious diseases in shrimp aquaculture. Epigenetic modulations entail chemical alterations in DNA and proteins, orchestrating gene expression patterns without modifying the underlying DNA sequence by utilizing DNA methylation, histone modifications, and non-coding RNA molecules. Exploiting epigenetic mechanisms presents an opportunity to enhance immune gene expression and bolster disease resistance in shrimp, thus revolutionizing disease management strategies and optimizing shrimp health and productivity. Additionally, the concept of epigenetic inheritability in marine animals holds immense potential for the future of the shrimp farming industry. To this end, this comprehensive review thoroughly explores the dynamics of epigenetic modulations in shrimp aquaculture, with a particular emphasis on its pivotal role in disease management. It accentuates the significance of harnessing advantageous epigenetic changes to ensure the long-term viability of shrimp farming while deliberating on the potential consequences of these interventions. Overall, this appraisal highlights the promising trajectory of epigenetic applications, propelling the field toward strengthening sustainability in shrimp aquaculture.

This paper presents a theoretically and methodologically grounded GIS-based model for the measurement and mapping of an index of living conditions in urban residential areas across Sweden. Further, the model is compared and evaluated using the Swedish Police’s assessment of crime-exposed areas. The results indicate that geographically measured vulnerable living conditions overlap to a large extent with the areas assessed to be crime-exposed by the Swedish Police. Over 61% of the police-defined crime-exposed areas are characterized by vulnerable living conditions. The results also show that the overlap is not perfect and that there are vulnerable areas that are not included in the police’s assessment of crime-exposed areas, but which are nonetheless characterized by vulnerable living conditions that could negatively affect the development of crime. It is also proposed that the model and the mapped index of living conditions provide a more well-grounded scientific basis for the police's assessment work. As a first step, the Swedish police have implemented the model and the mapped index in the work process employed in their annual identification of crime-exposed or at-risk areas. In addition to assisting the police, the model and the mapped index could also be used to support other societal actors working with vulnerable areas.

In the current pandemic of COVID-19, students and faculty are subject to social distancing and online learning. How to test students in this unprecedented environment is a new educational challenge with immediate and global impacts. The main contribution of this paper is to establish the feasibility that by a clever design we can control the average gain (which is referred to as the g-factor) from cheating behaviors to a degree as small as pre-specified so that accurate and reliable online exams can be administered. It is underlined that even after the pandemic the methods and systems in the spirit of our proposal are still valuable for cost-effective exams to promote open courses and internet-based education.

Burden of diseases measured as disability-adjusted life years per 100,000 people can be mined from public domain data, when they are made available by population health surveillance systems. This can be analysed to allow insightful comparisons with the national average, and to understand differences in trends between the sexes, age groups, time periods, geographic regions and sub-regions. In this illustrative case study, we have analysed the Scottish burden of disease database to understand what ailed the population of the Grampian region before the COVID-19 pandemic. We have identified selected cancers, ischaemic heart disease, Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias amongst the highest contributors to the burden; that drug use disorders and colorectal cancer are showing worsening trends and require health promotion and disease prevention measures from ages 15 and 25 respectively, especially in Aberdeen City; and that males are more vulnerable to atrial fibrillation and flutter, diabetes mellitus and oesophageal cancer, while females are to cerebrovascular disease. We demonstrate the usefulness of our analysis and methodology for the wider health system, allowing targeted medical research investments and coordinated response from public health and health service delivery. We also show the need for up-to-date surveillance data, forecasts and evidence on the impact of interventions to be made available widely.

Cervical cancer is preventable through vaccination, early detection, and treatment of precancerous lesions. However, global inequalities mean that the disease remains a leading cause of cancer death around the world, with over 80% of new cases and 90% of deaths occurring in low and middle-income countries (LMICs). In El Salvador, joint efforts between the Ministry of Health (MoH) and the non-profit organization Basic Health International (BHI) have been in place since 2008 with the goal of reducing the country’s disease burden. While the World Health Organization’s (WHO) call to action to eliminate cervical cancer provided worldwide momentum to implement new public health initiatives, the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted ongoing programs and jeopardized plans for the future. The purpose of this manuscript is to describe the progress that El Salvador has achieved in improving cervical cancer prevention, the impact of the pandemic on current strategies, and potential solutions that can help the country meet the WHO’s strategic targets by 2030 to accelerate the elimination of cervical cancer.

This paper presents the monitoring of an extremely eroding phenomenon (ravine) near Ciurila, Cluj County, Romania, using UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) and GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) technologies, taking into account the objectives of SDG 15 of the UN resolution, which refers to life on earth. In this sense, the results of a monitoring through sustainable and non-invasive technologies are presented, follo-wing three cycles of observations, carried out between June 2019 and April 2021.The paper aims to present the advantages and limitations of such a study , as well as the importance of monitoring erosion phenomena (in this case, ravines) for the ecosystem, but also for the nearby inhabitants. Software and technologies are used that allow the automatic calculation of the volume of the ravine and the displacements between the different measurement cycles, which allows obtaining objective conclusions and pro-posing further measures.

Radiation Fireballs are singular phenomena which involve severe thermal radiation and consequently, they need to be duly assessed and prevented. Although the radiative heat transfer produced by a sphere is relatively well known, the shadowing measures implemented to control the fireball’s devastating effects have frequently posed a difficult analytical instance, mainly due to its specific configuration. In this article, since the usual solving equations for the said cases are impractical, the authors propose a novel graphic-algorithm method that sorts the problem efficiently for different kinds of obstructions and relative positions of the fireball and the defenses. Adequate application of this method may improve the safety of a significant number of facilities exposed to such risks.

Students are regarded as frequent users of mobile phones which has proven to be a convenient and acceptable method to promote healthy lifestyle. Students usually engage in relatively high levels of risky behavior and make unhealthy lifestyle choices, a study that investigates how health students access health information is necessary. The study adopted a descriptive cross-sectional study which was undertaken among third-year nursing students from three nurses training institutions in Ghana. A total of 270 students participated in the study. Most of the respondents who were currently subscribers of the health messages reported that they usually received health information on reproductive health issues, nutrition, and practicing safe sex. Most of the health students revealed that they needed more information on safe sex, diet, managing weight, and stress management. The results also show that health students are likely to remember and share short messages with friends. The findings serve as an ‘eye-opener’ for health educators and mobile service providers concerning factors that should be taken into consideration when framing health text messages that will attract health students.

Iron tailings are solid waste generated after the mining of iron mines, which have caused serious damage to the surrounding ecology and environment and have attracted widespread attention. By analyzing the formation causes, main components, and environmental effect mechanisms of iron tailings, the article systematically elaborates on the degree and mechanism of the harm of iron tailings to water bodies, atmosphere, soil, and ecosystems, and evaluates its impact on human health and sustainable development of society. On this basis, specific prevention and control measures have been proposed to reduce iron tailings emissions, realize resource recycling, and restore ecosystems. Research shows that iron tailings containing heavy metals can widely pollute the environment through dissolution and migration, and have significant biological toxicity effects. The research results can provide a theoretical reference for decision-making departments to formulate scientific and reasonable iron tailings disposal and ecological protection policies. It is recommended to strengthen specific research on the infiltration of toxic and harmful components in tailings in the future, and develop efficient and stable solidification technology, and vegetation-microbial joint restoration models to further reduce the ecological and environmental risks of iron tailings.

Cancer is a prevalent disease worldwide and treatments such as radiotherapy and chemotherapy sometimes lead to adverse events. Oral mucositis is one of the most disabling and clinical guidelines do not take into account nutritional interventions. The primary endpoint was to gather the evidence about the efficacy of nutritional interventions in the prevention and/or treatment of antineoplastic induced oral mucositis in oncological patients. It was carried out a bibliographic review in PubMed data base by combining MesH terms with boolean operators. Articles were selected based on inclusion and exclusion criteria; 50 final articles were found. Although further evidence is needed, glutamine, honey and vitamins appear to be a good therapeutic option. The rest of the compounds presented controversial or insufficient results to draw conclusions over their utilization as prevention or treatment options. Low evidence is reported about oral mucositis nutritional interventions in spite of being attainable and affordable compounds. Scarce evidence is shown in paediatric patients compared to adults. Developing higher quality studies and combinations with the compounds researched is necessary to create stronger evidence.

In this particular historical moment, the increase in mortality for cardiovascular disease in adults, the increase of metabolic diseases linked to overweight and obesity, it is necessary to focus the attention of medical doctors, researchers and policy makers on the promotion of correct lifestyles and prevention. The "prevention" and "cure or treatment" have long been considered distinct strategies, the almost exclusive prerogative of the public health authorities for the preventive aspects and of the clinician for the treatments. This approach has led, and still leads, to very high healthcare costs, without having a significant impact on obesity incidence. The promotion of correct lifestyles in the population and in subjects at risk in the fight against obesity/overweight, to contrast the reduction of physical activity and sedentary lifestyle, to promote the consumption of fruit and vegetables, to the reduction of the excessive consumption of salt as "Strategic lines of intervention" need to be pursued in all western countries. Actually, the preventive actions undertaken were not very effective, especially for the individuals in pediatric age. In this narrative review, based on published data, the critical points for obesity prevention will be discussed focusing on action needed during life from pre-conception to childhood, adulthood and in geriatric age to contrast obesity.