Browse Articles

The effect of light quality on growth, photosynthetic performance and essential oil content of Dracocephalum moldavica in indoor cultivation production

Disproportionality analysis of drug-associated progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy using spontaneous reports: A 20-year signal detection study based on the FAERS database

Background Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) is a rare, often fatal demyelinating disease caused by JC virus reactivation in immunocompromised patients. With the increasing use of immunosuppressants and biologics, PML reporting in non-HIV populations is rising. This study aimed to evaluate drug-associated PML reporting signals using real-world pharmacovigilance data. Methods We analyzed FAERS database from 2004Q1 to 2024Q4. We identified PML reports via MedDRA Terms and manual validation. Four algorithms (ROR, PRR, BCPNN, MGPS) were jointly applied, with drugs showing signals across all four defined as high-risk. Results 7,244 PML reports involving 298 drugs were identified; 72 drugs showed consistent signals, predominantly immunomodulators (e.g., natalizumab, rituximab), antineoplastics, and biologics. High-risk indications included multiple sclerosis, lymphoma, autoimmune diseases, and organ transplantation. PML reporting increased substantially in non-HIV populations. Time-to -reporting varied widely (49–1343days). Over one-third of reports were associated with life-threatening outcomes or death. Conclusions This analysis identified 72 drugs with consistent PML reporting signals. However, these findings represent statistical associations in spontaneous reports, not causal relationships or true incidence rates. Inherent limitations—including underreporting, incomplete medication histories, and lack of exposure denominators—require cautious interpretation. Prospective validation studies are essential to establish causality and quantify absolute risks.

Sustainable spectrofluorimetric determination of berberine in dietary supplements via Erythrosin B Ion-Pair complexation with mechanistic investigation, Box-Behnken optimization, and green chemistry assessment

Abstract A novel spectrofluorimetric method was developed for berberine determination in dietary supplements based on ion-pair complex formation with Erythrosin B. Spectroscopic characterization of Erythrosin B, berberine, and their complex revealed hypsochromic shift and hypochromic effect in UV-visible absorption upon complexation, with concentration-dependent fluorescence quenching at 555 nm (λ ex  = 530 nm). Mechanistic investigations confirmed static quenching through ground-state complex formation, evidenced by decreasing Stern-Volmer constants with increasing temperature (3.68 × 10 5 to 2.77 × 10 5 M − 1 from 298 to 313 K) and bimolecular quenching rate constants exceeding the diffusion-controlled limit. Thermodynamic analysis indicated spontaneous, exothermic complexation driven by both enthalpic and entropic contributions. Moreover, Job’s method established 1:1 stoichiometry, while PM3 quantum mechanical calculations revealed multiple stabilizing interactions including hydrogen bonding (1.7 Å), electrostatic interaction (3.2 Å), and halogen bonding (3.9 Å). Subsequently, Box-Behnken design optimization elucidated the influence of pH, reagent concentration, buffer volume, and incubation time on fluorescence quenching efficiency and yielded optimal conditions (pH 6.4, Erythrosin B 13.0 µg/mL, buffer volume 1.1 mL, incubation time 6.0 min). The method was then validated according to ICH Q2(R2) guidelines, demonstrating excellent linearity (0.1–3.0 µg/mL, r 2  = 0.9997), high sensitivity (LOD = 0.032 µg/mL), satisfactory accuracy (99.83%), and precision (RSD < 1.4%). Selectivity studies revealed cross-reactivity with structurally related quaternary alkaloids, rendering the method suitable for standardized berberine supplements but not crude botanical extracts. Furthermore, statistical comparison with HPLC reference methods confirmed method equivalence. Finally, environmental assessment using AGREE (0.75), MoGAPI (78), CaFRI (82), and BAGI (77.5) demonstrated the method superior sustainability through minimal solvent consumption, reduced waste generation, and elimination of toxic reagents, offering a practical and environmentally friendly alternative for routine berberine quality control.

Diet and stones: Associations from a large, population-representative study of urolithiasis and renal colic-like pain symptoms in Poland

Introduction Urolithiasis and renal colic-like pain symptoms are prevalent conditions influenced by many factors, including diet. Regional assessments, particularly in culturally distinct areas, are essential for understanding specific risk patterns and for developing targeted public health strategies and educational programs. Therefore, the aim of this study was to identify associations between urolithiasis, renal colic-like pain symptoms, and diet, including body weight, in a representative sample of adult Poles. Methods A population-representative online survey of 10,029 adults was conducted using census-based quota sampling to ensure balanced representation by age, sex, and residence across all 16 Polish voivodships, including urban and rural areas. Results Normal-weight individuals had the lowest prevalence of urolithiasis and renal colic-like pain symptoms; overweight, obese, and underweight persons had higher prevalences (p < 0.001). Eighteen food items were linked to urolithiasis, with beef, legumes, soy, soda, coffee, and fast food found as independent predictors of urolithiasis. Nineteen foods were associated with renal colic-like pain symptoms, with processed meat, soy, legumes, fruit juices, soda, instant meals, and fast food identified as independent predictors of symptoms. Fast food showed the strongest effects, with daily consumption nearly tripling the risk of urolithiasis (OR=2.847; p = 0.001) and increasing renal colic-like pain symptoms by 64.5% (OR=1.645; p = 0.006) compared with no consumption of fast food. Conclusions This study provides the first comprehensive, population-based analysis of urolithiasis, renal colic-like pain symptoms, and dietary patterns in Central and Eastern Europe. Our findings demonstrate that both conditions are influenced by body weight and a range of dietary factors.

HCC risk stratification scores: insights from large multi-center national cohort study

Abstract Current guidelines advocate biannual HCC surveillance for chronic hepatitis C patients who achieved sustained virological response (SVR) following direct acting antivirals (DAAs), posing a heavy burden on healthcare systems. This study aimed to identify the most accurate and clinically useful risk stratification tool among patients who achieved SVR following DAAs in a large, multicenter national cohort. A retrospective study across 52 NCCVH centers in Egypt included 8,419 CHC patients with cirrhosis (F4) or advanced fibrosis (F3) who achieved SVR after DAAs and had complete follow-up data. Baseline data were used to calculate HCC risk scores (GES, aMAP, THRI, ALBI, FIB-4). Prognostic performance was assessed using Kaplan–Meier analysis, AUC, Harrell’s C-index, and Brier score with calibration plots. Decision curve analysis and Net Reclassification Improvement were applied to evaluate clinical utility and incremental prognostic value. All evaluated HCC risk scores showed adequate performance, with significant separation of incidence curves (log-rank p  ≤ 0.05). GES demonstrated the highest AUC (0.632), followed by THRI (0.600) and aMAP (0.591), with C-indices around 0.63.Kaplan–Meier analysis confirmed significant survival differences between risk groups. GES had superior calibration (Brier score 0.197, slope 0.90). Decision Curve Analysis favored GES, offering the greatest net clinical benefit, especially at thresholds 0.1–0.3. NRI analysis showed aMAP worsened classification (NRI = − 0.16), while THRI offered minimal improvement over GES (NRI = + 0.05). Implementation of the GES score in Egypt’s national HCC surveillance program, enabling individualized surveillance and reducing healthcare burden in accordance with current EASL recommendations.

Pigs and pasture: Drivers and characteristics of outdoor systems on the island of Ireland

Outdoor systems offer benefits to pig welfare but they also pose challenges and are less well researched than indoor. This study characterized, for the first time, current husbandry and management practices of outdoor pig production on the island of Ireland, in order to understand associated drivers, challenges and changes needed for sustainable development. An online survey conducted from December 2022 to April 2023 (n = 90 respondents) revealed that animal welfare, food quality, and traceability concerns were the primary reasons for raising pigs outdoors, regardless of whether the pigs were raised for sale (meat or live pigs) or other (e.g., personal meat consumption, pet, land management) purposes. Most of the respondents expressed concerns about animal welfare in conventional systems, and emphasized the importance of the “Five Freedoms”. A significant cohort of respondents (56%) adopted alternative health management strategies based on season and soil management (paddock rotation, use of straw bedding on muddy areas), and by avoiding the use of antibiotics and other chemicals. Farms were small (median: 20.5 pigs, 1.02 ha), half were engaged with pig societies, and used traditional/rare breeds, which are adapted to outdoor conditions and that farmers can sell as superior quality pigmeat. The most frequently reported challenges were feed costs, inclement weather, fencing and soil maintenance. The most mentioned “needs” of the industry were financial support and consumer education. While participants chose to raise pigs outdoors to improve animal welfare, meat quality and traceability; overcoming challenges related to finance, infrastructure, and education is vital to their future sustainability.

Association of bedroom particulate matter, sleep quality and next-day physical performance

Maternal knowledge and practice of safe infant sleep position in South Ethiopia: Implications for preventing sleep-related infant deaths

Background Safe infant sleep position practice is crucial for infants from birth to 12 months of age. One of the most important interventions in infancy is choosing the right sleeping position for the baby. The unsafe position of the child while sleeping is associated with sudden infant death Syndrome. However, little is known about the safe infant sleep position practice in Ethiopia. Therefore, this study aimed to assess safe infant sleep position practices among mothers attending child health care services in the Wolaita Zone public hospitals, South Ethiopia, 2024. Methods The study included 569 mothers with infants attending child health care services in public hospitals in the Wolaita Zone. Participants were selected using a systematic sampling method, and data was collected through structured questionnaires administered via interviews. The collected data was checked for completeness, coded, and entered into EpiData version 4.6. Analysis was conducted using the social science statistical package. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the data, and results were presented through narratives, tables, and figures. Binary logistic regression analysis was employed to identify explanatory variables associated with safe infant sleep position practices. A p-value of ≤0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results A total of 569 study participants were included in this study with a response rate of 99.1%. The safe infant sleeping position practice (back to sleep) in this study was 42.7% [95% CI (38.6%, 46.8)]. Maternal occupation, parity, source information about sleep position, and good knowledge of safe sleep position practice were significantly associated by (AOR = 3.49; 95% CI (1.81, 6.76)), (AOR = 0.39; 95% CI (0.21, 0.74)), (AOR = 4.64; 95% CI (1.77, 12.18)), and (AOR = 2.04; 95% CI (1.22, 3.40)) respectively. Conclusion The study found that over half of participants did not practice safe infant sleeping positions. Factors such as maternal occupation, parity, information sources, and knowledge significantly influenced safe sleep practices. Targeted health education—particularly through antenatal and postnatal care services, as well as community-based awareness campaigns—is recommended to improve maternal knowledge and reduce sleep-related infant deaths.

Anticancer activity of curcumin loaded hybrid system of silver-amine functionalized silica nanoparticles

A multidimensional procurement literacy instrument: Development and validation among undergraduate procurement students in Ghana

Procurement remains one of the central functions in public- and private sector governance, yet relatively little attention has been given to how procurement capabilities develop during undergraduate education. This study addresses this gap by developing and validating an instrument to measure Procurement literacy of undergraduate students in Ghana. Drawing on CIPS Global Professional Standards and other policy frameworks, this study initially conceptualised six domains of procurement literacy. The initial instruments were refined through expert review before being administered to a sample of 554 students from selected public universities. The structure and psychometric properties of the administered instruments were examined using exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses. In total, a 30-item instrument grouped into five domains emerged: Ethical Procurement Practice, Procurement Planning and Decision-Making, Supplier and Contract Management, Digital and E-Procurement competency, and Legal and Policy Knowledge. The final 30-item scale demonstrated strong internal consistency, satisfactory convergent and discriminant validity, and measurement invariance across academic levels. Predictive validity was examined using the intention of students’ behavioural intention to engage in ethical procurement practices, with all dimensions showing positive and statistically significant associations. Differences in procurement literacy were also observed at academic levels, with effect sizes ranging from small to moderate. Harman’s single-factor test (48.5%) indicated that common method bias was not a threat. The findings suggest that procurement literacy can be measured reliably at the undergraduate level and that the instrument offers a practical tool for curriculum evaluation, instructional planning, and early capability assessment in procurement education.

Dietary protein intake in relation to metabolic syndrome reversion: findings from the Tehran lipid and glucose study

Machine learning-based prediction of acute and complicated appendicitis using readily available data in low-resource settings

Background Acute appendicitis often presents diagnostic challenges, especially in pediatric and elderly patients. Delays can cause serious complications. While imaging aids diagnosis, it is not always accessible. Machine learning offers a promising solution. This study aimed to develop a simple, accurate model using basic demographic and laboratory data to improve diagnosis in low-resource settings. Materials and methods This retrospective, single-center study analyzed 453 patients undergoing appendectomy for suspected acute appendicitis. Clinical, laboratory, and histopathological data were collected and classified into normal, uncomplicated, or complicated appendicitis. Data preprocessing included feature encoding, scaling, and balancing. Seven machine learning models were trained and evaluated using stratified five-fold cross-validation, and interpretability was assessed using SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP). Results Among 453 patients, appendicitis was confirmed in 68.87%, predominantly in males (p < 0.001). Patients with appendicitis were significantly older (p = 0.0012), exhibiting elevated white blood cells(WBC) count, neutrophils, and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels, and lower lymphocytes (all p < 0.001). The Support Vector Classifier (SVC) performed best in classifying appendicitis (accuracy = 75.82%, ROC-AUC = 76.39%). SHAP analysis identified WBC, lymphocyte percentage, gender, age, and neutrophil percentage as influential predictors. For differentiating complicated versus uncomplicated appendicitis, SVC achieved moderate accuracy (70.19%) and ROC-AUC (76.33%), but low precision (14.85%) indicated challenges in minimizing false positives. Conclusion Machine learning models based on CBC and CRP show preliminary potential for predicting appendicitis, but given the surgical-only cohort and modest performance, further validation is needed before clinical use, particularly in low-resource settings.

Molecular dynamics simulation of atomic layer etching for sidewall damage recovery in GaN-based structures

The influence of stigma on PrEP uptake among adolescent girls and young women in Johannesburg, South Africa and Mwanza, Tanzania: Qualitative findings from the EMPOWER study

Background Adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) in sub-Saharan Africa need HIV prevention options. Stigma may impede uptake and consistent use of oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). We sought to understand how stigma manifested and influenced decisions of AGYW participating in a PrEP demonstration trial in Johannesburg, South Africa and Mwanza, Tanzania. Methods This paper reports on serial qualitative in-depth interviews (IDI) with AGYW (n = 39) as well as healthcare providers and community stakeholders (n = 30) conducted during a randomized controlled trial that evaluated the effect of empowerment clubs to address harmful gender norms and stigma on PrEP persistence in AGYW aged 16–24 in South Africa and Tanzania. Analysis was thematic and inductive. Results Stigma manifested in two main ways: HIV-related stigma and sexual behavior stigma. PrEP was often mistaken for antiretroviral therapy, and some participants taking daily PrEP reported that partners or family members thought they were living with HIV. Anticipated PrEP sexual stigma was common and linked with concerns around AGYW being perceived as promiscuous. While most participants anticipated stigma related to PrEP use, experiences of stigma were rare and did not deter AGYW from initiating PrEP. Many participants demonstrated resilience and remained confident in their decision to use PrEP and some developed strategies to avoid stigma, such as hiding pills or taking PrEP when partners or family members were not around. Conclusions Our findings suggest that anticipated stigma is a common yet surmountable concern of AGYW initiating PrEP in eastern and southern Africa. Future PrEP implementation should be paired with multi-level activities to reduce stigma including empowerment activities for adolescents, strategies to reduce negative attitudes among health care providers and community-wide education to raise awareness and position PrEP as a responsible choice for young people to protect their health. Trial registration Pan African Clinical Trials Registry PACTR202006754762723.

Utilization of quartz quarry dust as a sustainable partial sand replacement in cement mortar

Correction: Impact of frailty and its change on urinary incontinence: A longitudinal analysis from two prospective study of ageing

Air quality prediction model based on deep learning hybrid framework

Ischemic preconditioning enhances energy supply during frequency speed kick test in Taekwondo athletes: A randomized crossover study

Purpose This study aimed to examine the effect of ischemic preconditioning (IPC) on energy supply during sport-specific tests in male taekwondo athletes. To our knowledge, this is the first investigation of IPC’s efficacy in enhancing energy supply in a taekwondo context, underscoring its potential to optimize performance in combat sports. Methods Sixteen male taekwondo athletes completed a randomized crossover trial comparing an IPC condition (220 mmHg) with a sham condition (20 mmHg). Performance was evaluated via the frequency speed kick test (FSKT), and energy system contributions were quantified via the PCr–La–O₂ method. Two-way repeated-measures ANOVA and a generalized linear mixed model were used to analyze the data. Results IPC significantly increased the total number of kicks in each FSKT group (98.4 ± 6.6 vs. 94.0 ± 5.5, p = 0.049, d = 0.72; 94.4 ± 7.7 vs. 89.3 ± 5.5, p = 0.036, d = 0.77; 93.1 ± 7.5 vs. 86.8 ± 6.3, p = 0.015, d = 0.90) and the aerobic energy supply (294.09 ± 50.35 vs. 270.44 ± 49.30, P = 0.031, d = 0.47). The postexercise blood lactate clearance rate was greater in the IPC trial (14.07 ± 4.94 vs. 9.14 ± 6.84, p = 0.02, d = 0.81), despite no differences in glycolytic or phosphagen contributions (49.32 ± 13.11 vs. 43.00 ± 12.25, p = 0.055). Conclusion IPC appears to enhance taekwondo performance by improving aerobic metabolism and accelerating lactate clearance, thereby promoting synergistic interactions between anaerobic and aerobic energy systems and improving energy supply. Notably, the performance benefits of IPC became more pronounced as exercise duration increased, suggesting a cumulative ergogenic effect during prolonged high-intensity activity.

Friction stir welding parameter optimization for dissimilar AA2014 and AA5052 aluminium alloys

Facilitators and barriers of physical activity, sedentariness and exercise adoption among healthcare professionals in Lagos State, Nigeria – A qualitative review

Physical inactivity is a major global public health concern, identified by the World Health Organization as the fourth leading cause of mortality worldwide and associated with an estimated 3.2 million deaths annually. Healthcare professionals (HCPs) serve as frontline advocates for health promotion and disease prevention, yet many struggle to maintain adequate levels of physical activity themselves, which not only compromises their health but also diminishes their capacity to counsel patients effectively. This qualitative study explored the facilitators and barriers of physical inactivity, sedentariness, and exercise adoption among healthcare professionals in Lagos State, Nigeria, using the Social Ecological Model (SEM) to examine influences at individual, interpersonal, organizational, community, and policy levels. Data were collected through six focus group discussions with healthcare professionals, four in-depth interviews with family members of HCPs, and five key informant interviews with healthcare facility heads and policy makers in urban planning in Lagos State. Findings revealed that time constraints, heavy workloads, inadequate infrastructure, safety concerns, and cultural norms were major barriers to physical activity, while facilitators included peer support, leadership engagement, self-efficacy, and incentives such as free gym access. Organizational strategies such as provision of onsite gyms at healthcare facilities, scheduled breaks, and promotion of a workplace fitness culture were identified as critical enablers. The study highlights the urgent need for comprehensive, multi-level interventions to address barriers and strengthen facilitators of physical activity among healthcare professionals. Addressing these gaps is essential not only for improving their health but also for enhancing their role as credible advocates of active lifestyles.