Risk Of Fever Research Articles

Utilization of Sang Mamong Leaf Extract (Lantana camara) as an Anti-Head (Pediculus humanus capitis) Lice Shampoo

Head lice (Pediculus humanus capitis) are a scalp health problem that can attack all ages, especially children aged 3–11 years. Women have a higher risk of infection than men. In Seteluk District, West Sumbawa Regency, a survey of 40 children aged 6–13 years (20 girls and 20 boys) showed that 100% of girls (20 people) had head lice, while only 20% of boys (4 people) who are infected. The high risk in girls is influenced by wearing the hijab from an early age, hot weather, and sweat, which causes hair to become wet, thereby supporting the development of head lice. Head lice cause severe itching that triggers excessive scratching, potentially causing wounds, irritation, scalp infections, and increasing the risk of fever in children. This research aims to prove the effectiveness of sang mamong (Lantana camara L) leaf extract as an anti-head lice (Pediculus humanus capitis) shampoo through quantitative experimental methods. Making sang mamong extract using 60 grams of dry and fine sang mamong, using 450 mL of 96% alcohol for 2 days, then heated at 70 oC to produce sang mamong extract. Data analysis techniques are based on the results of pH measurement tests, foam height tests, and activity tests. The researcher's hair lice activity test results used 1 mL of anti-lice material, dropped evenly on filter paper, and placed in a petri dish. For anti-lice shampoo without using sang mamong leaf extract, the 3 fleas tested showed no change in active flea activity for up to 1 hour, whereas for shampoo containing sang mamong extract it showed different activity for each extract and the most effective flea activity test results were Anti-lice shampoo containing 4% sang mamong can kill 2 head lice, 1 within 4 minutes and 1 within 11 minutes, and this shows that anti-lice shampoo containing Sang mamong extract (Lantana camara L) is still better than the shampoo sold on the market, based on activity tests, market shampoo is only able to make 2 lice immobile in just 30 minutes, then 3 lice move again for up to 60 minutes without showing any change. The pH measurement test shows an average value of 6, and the foam height test produces an average value of 8.5. Based on these findings, sang mamong (Lantana camara L) leaves can produce an effective anti-head lice shampoo. Tests for pH levels, foam height, and flea activity on shampoo made from sang mamong (Lantana camara L) leaves meet the criteria for good quality shampoo. Shampoo trials have been conducted on 3 children and 2 teenagers, showing safe results without irritation. scalp and effectively makes hair lice fall out during use.

The Effectiveness of Mosquito Larva Monitoring Calendar on Knowledge, Dengue Fever Risk Behavior, and Mosquito Larva Density Rates in Malang, Indonesia

Background The neglected efforts of mosquito larvae observers (typically health cadres and known as Jumantik) require innovative solutions, one of which is the self-monitoring approach with the mosquito larva monitoring calendar (MLMC). This study aimed to test the effectiveness of MLMC in enhancing knowledge, reducing dengue fever (DF) risk behavior, and lowering larva densities. Methods A 4-month quasi-experiment was designed to evaluate the use of MLMC. The experimental group implemented MLMC, while the control group implemented the government’s basic program. Both groups were allocated randomly. Baseline and follow-up surveys in experimental and control groups were conducted, each comprising a village and housing estate. As the data was not normally distributed, the Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used to assess within-group changes, while the Student’s t-test or Mann–Whitney U test was used to compare two groups. Spearman’s test examined the relationship between MLMC utility and knowledge. Results Compared to control groups, there were improvements in DF risk behaviors for experimental, such as hanging clothes (p=0.008 vs p=0.130), closing the trash (p=0.027 vs p=0.004), and using mosquito nets (p< 0.001 vs p<0.001). In the follow-up survey, the MLMC received positive feedback, correlating with increased knowledge (r=0.240, p=0.006). There was no decrease in the existence of the larval stage in either the experimental or control groups (p=1.00 vs p=0.446). The control group showed reduced positive larva (p<0.001), possibly due to higher education and history of DF although not significant. Conclusion MLMC can reducereduce DF risk behavior, increase knowledge, and decrease mosquito larval density, contingent upon sustained compliance, assisted by Jumantik.

Dexamethasone-based Prophylactic Therapy for Prevention of Post-Embolization Syndrome: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Assessing its Efficacy and Influence of Dosage and Timing in Patients Undergoing Arterial Embolization.

Post-embolization syndrome (PES), characterized by pain, fever, nausea, and vomiting, is a common but non-serious adverse event following arterial embolization, negatively impacting patient satisfaction with the procedure. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of dexamethasone-based prophylactic therapy in preventing PES, as well as to assess the effects of its dosage and timing of administration. A systematic search was conducted across three databases, two trial registries, and citation searches to identify relevant studies. Data related to postoperative pain, fever, nausea, and vomiting were extracted and meta-analyzed using a random-effects model and the Mantel-Haenszel method. Meta-regression was performed to examine the role of dexamethasone dose and timing of administration as mediators. Dexamethasone-based prophylactic therapy significantly reduced the risk of postoperative pain (RR=0.58, 95% CI: 0.48-0.69; P<0.00001), fever (RR=0.36, 95% CI: 0.22-0.61; P<0.00001), nausea (RR=0.52, 95% CI: 0.41-0.67; P<0.00001), and vomiting (RR=0.54, 95% CI: 0.36-0.82; P=0.004) compared to placebo or no treatment. A higher dose of dexamethasone was associated with a significantly lower incidence of postoperative pain (P=0.038). Regarding timing, postoperative and continuous (extending throughout the perioperative period) administration, was more effective than preoperative administration (P=0.024; P=0.007). A dosage of 6-12 mg was particularly effective in reducing the risk for all four symptoms. Dexamethasone effectively prevents PES in patients undergoing arterial embolization. An optimal protocol may involve a divided dose regimen within the range of 6-12 mg, extending throughout the recovery period for maximum benefit.

Clinical novel exploration of intractable fever in stroke rehabilitation: a single-center cross-sectional retrospective study

Fever has long been recognized as one of the earliest clinical indicators of illness and remains a leading reason for seeking medical care worldwide. It is typically classified based on its duration and underlying etiology. In clinical settings, intractable fever is as common as acute fever, particularly in patients with brain injuries. Beyond infectious causes, stroke survivors often experience recurrent intractable fever due to central or neurogenic mechanisms. This study aims to retrospectively investigate the incidence and clinical characteristics of acute and intractable fever in patients undergoing stroke rehabilitation. It explores the associations between these characteristics and the different types of fever. Additionally, the study seeks to identify potential risk factors contributing to the development of intractable fever, aiming to guide clinical management and optimize treatment strategies for stroke-related fever. This study evaluated 1,065 stroke patients in the rehabilitation phase who were admitted to the Neurorehabilitation Center between January 1, 2023, and December 31, 2023. Of these, 230 febrile patients met the inclusion criteria and were included in the analysis, comprising 194 cases of acute fever and 36 cases of intractable fever. Medical records and clinical characteristics were collected, and the data from the two groups of febrile patients were analyzed using t-tests, Mann-Whitney U tests, and chi-square tests. Logistic regression analysis was performed to identify risk factors associated with intractable fever, while receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were used to assess the predictive performance of individual and combined risk factors. A p-value of less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. 15.7% of patients experienced intractable fever, which was significantly associated with brainstem lesions (P < 0.05). Compared to patients with acute fever, those with intractable fever had higher NIHSS scores (33.3% vs. 15.5%, P < 0.05), a greater incidence of consciousness disorders (66.7% vs. 28.9%, P < 0.05), and a higher rate of tracheostomy (55.6% vs. 15.5%, P < 0.05). All patients received antibiotic treatment, and gabapentin was administered to 16 cases. Patients with brainstem lesions were less likely to be treated with gabapentin (37.5% vs. 90%, P < 0.05), while those with intracerebral hemorrhage were more likely to receive gabapentin (87.5% vs. 10%, P < 0.05). Logistic regression analysis revealed that consciousness disorders and tracheostomy status were significant risk factors for intractable fever (P = 0.047, OR 6.691, 95% CI 1.030–43.478; P = 0.021, OR 5.366, 95% CI 1.282–22.465). Brainstem lesions also significantly increased the risk (P = 0.002, OR 9.617, 95% CI 2.277–40.614). Although limited in scope, this retrospective study highlights the increased risk of intractable fever during stroke rehabilitation among patients with consciousness disorders, tracheostomy, and brainstem injuries. The key risk factors identified include higher NIHSS scores, impaired consciousness, tracheostomy status, and brainstem lesions.

Risk of hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome associated with meteorological factors in diverse epidemic regions: a nationwide longitudinal study in China

BackgroundHemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS) is a climate-sensitive zoonotic disease that poses a significant public health burden worldwide. While previous studies have established associations between meteorological factors and HFRS incidence, there remains a critical knowledge gap regarding the heterogeneity of these effects across diverse epidemic regions. Addressing this gap is essential for developing region-specific prevention and control strategies. This study conducted a national investigation to examine the associations between meteorological factors and HFRS in three distinct epidemic regions.MethodsWe collected daily meteorological data (temperature and relative humidity) and HFRS incidence cases of 285 cities in China from the Resource and Environment Science and Data Center and the Chinese National Notifiable Infectious Disease Reporting Information System from 2005–2022. Study locations were stratified into three distinct epidemic categories (Rattus-dominant, Apodemus-dominant, and mixed) based on the seasonality of peak incidence. The associations between meteorological variables and HFRS incidence were investigated using a time-stratified case-crossover design combined with distributed lag nonlinear modeling for each epidemic category.ResultsThe exposure-response relationships between meteorological factors and HFRS incidence revealed significant heterogeneity across epidemic regions, as evidenced by Cochran’s Q test for temperature (Q = 324.40, P < 0.01) and relative humidity (Q = 30.57, P < 0.01). The optimal daily average temperature for HFRS transmission in Rattus-dominant epidemic regions (− 6.6 °C), characterized by spring epidemics, was lower than that observed in Apodemus-dominant epidemic regions (13.7 °C), where primary cases occurred during autumn and winter months. Furthermore, the association between relative humidity and HFRS incidence exhibited as a monotonic negative correlation in Rattus-dominant regions, while Apodemus-dominant regions showed a nonlinear, inverted U-shaped association.ConclusionsThis study highlights the heterogeneous effects of meteorological factors on HFRS incidence across different epidemic regions. Targeted preventive measures should be taken during cold and dry spring days in Rattus-dominant regions, and during warm and moderately humid winter days in Apodemus-dominant regions. In mixed epidemic regions, both scenarios require attention. These findings provide novel scientific evidence for the formulation and implementation of region-specific HFRS prevention policies.Graphical

Determinants of viral haemorrhagic fever risk in Africa's tropical moist forests: A scoping review of spatial, socio-economic, and environmental factors.

Viral haemorrhagic fevers (VHFs) are identified by international health authorities as priorities for research and development, as they pose a threat to global health and economy. VHFs are zoonotic diseases whose acute forms in humans present a haemorrhagic syndrome and shock, with mortality rates of up to 90%. This work aims at synthetizing existing knowledge on spatial and spatially aggregable determinants that support the emergence and maintenance of VHFs in African countries covered by tropical moist forest, to better identify and map areas at risk. Using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA-ScR) guidelines, extension for scoping reviews, we searched the PubMed, Embase, CAB Abstracts, and Scopus databases. English and French peer-reviewed documents were retrieved using Boolean logic and keyword search terms. The analysis of 79 articles published between 1993 and 2023 offers a comprehensive overview of the complex interactions among abiotic, biotic, demographic, socio-economic, cultural, and political risk factors in driving the emergence and maintenance of VHFs in African countries covered by tropical moist forests. Human-to-human transmission is mainly driven by socio-economic, political, and demographic factors, whereas zoonotic spillover is determined by almost all groups of factors, especially those of an anthropogenic nature. Many questions remain unanswered regarding the epidemiology of VHFs in tropical forests. By elucidating spatially relevant determinants which have already been studied, this review seeks to advance VHFs hotspot predictions, risk mapping for disease surveillance and control systems improvement.

Association analysis of genetic polymorphisms of METTL3 with clinical outcomes in a Chinese pediatric population with primary brain tumors.

Methyltransferase-like 3 (METTL3) regulates numerous biological processes and diverse cancers. To explore the frequency distribution of METTL3 rs1061026, rs1139130, and rs1263801 polymorphisms, and their potential impacts on clinical outcomes and chemotherapy-induced toxicities in a cohort of Chinese pediatric patients diagnosed with primary brain tumors (PBTs). Genotyping for three investigated SNPs was performed in 107 pediatric patients with PBTs using the Sequenom MassARRAY iPLEX platform. Serum METTL3 levels were determined by Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay. Serum methotrexate (MTX) concentrations were quantified utilizing fluorescence polarization immunoassay. The three investigated SNPs were not significantly associated with the risks of relapse and metastasis after adjusting all confounders. Compared to individuals with the rs1139130 GG genotype, GA genotype carriers exhibited a significantly higher risk of oral mucositis (adjusted OR: 7.504; 95 % CI, 1.931-29.436; P = 0.004). The rs1139130 GA (adjusted OR: 5.091; 95 % CI, 1.351-19.176; P = 0.016) and AA (adjusted OR: 9.588; 95 % CI, 1.769-51.949; P = 0.009) genotype carriers exhibited a significantly lower risk of fever than GG genotype carriers. The median dose-normalized MTX concentrations at 42 h were lower with borderline significance in children with rs1061026 GT and GG genotypes (0.004 μmol/L per g/m2) than the TT genotype carriers (0.006 μmol/L per g/m2, P = 0.048). Patients with the rs1139130 GA genotype had significantly higher median serum METTL3 protein levels (59.91 ng/mL) than GG genotype carriers (44.57 ng/mL, P = 0.015). This study demonstrated the association of the rs1139130 polymorphism with the development of oral mucositis and fever and the rs1061026 polymorphism with MTX exposure.

Association of preoperative body mass index with postoperative complications and survival for patients with gastric cancer: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

The relationship among body mass index (BMI), postoperative complications, and clinical outcomes in patients undergoing gastrectomy for gastric cancer remains unclear. This study aimed to evaluate this association using a meta-analysis. We conducted a systematic search of the PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases up to February 25, 2024. Patients were classified into underweight (<18.5 kg/m2), normal weight (18.5-25.0 kg/m2), and overweight (≥25.0 kg/m2) groups based on BMI categories. Meta-analysis was performed using a random-effects model. Additionally, exploratory sensitivity and subgroup analyses were performed. Twenty-two studies involving 41,144 patients with gastric cancer were included for quantitative analysis. Preoperative underweight (odds ratio [OR]: 1.26; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.03-1.55; P = 0.024) and overweight (OR: 1.19; 95%CI: 1.09-1.30; P <0.001) were associated with an increased risk of postoperative complications. Furthermore, preoperative underweight was associated with poorer overall survival (hazard ratio [HR]: 1.40; 95%CI: 1.28-1.53; P <0.001), whereas preoperative overweight was associated with better over-survival (HR: 0.82; 95%CI: 0.73-0.91; P <0.001). Furthermore, preoperative underweight was not associated with disease-free survival (HR: 1.48; 95%CI: 0.97-2.26; P = 0.069), whereas preoperative overweight was associated with longer disease-free survival (HR: 0.80; 95%CI: 0.70-0.91; P = 0.001). In terms of specific postoperative complications, preoperative underweight was associated with an increased risk of septic shock (OR: 3.40; 95%CI: 1.26-9.17; P = 0.015) and a reduced risk of fever (OR: 0.39; 95%CI: 0.18-0.83; P = 0.014). Preoperative overweight was associated with an increased risk of wound infections (OR: 1.78; 95%CI: 1.08-2.93; P = 0.023), intestinal fistula (OR: 5.23; 95%CI: 1.93-14.21; P = 0.001), arrhythmia (OR: 6.38; 95%CI: 1.70-24.01; P = 0.006), and pancreatic fistula (OR: 3.37; 95%CI: 1.14-9.96; P = 0.028). This study revealed that both preoperative underweight and overweight status were associated with an increased risk of postoperative complications. Moreover, the postoperative survival outcomes were significantly better in overweight compared to that of underweight patients. Registration: INPLASY202480004.

Relationship Between Community Behavior And Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever Incidence

According to DHF incidence data obtained from the Madiun City Health Profile, there were 48 cases and one death in 2021, an increase in cases of 212 cases with one death in 2022, and there were still 144 cases with one death in 2023. The purpose of this study is to determine the relationship between community behavior and the incidence of dengue hemorrhagic fever in the Manguharjo Health Center Working Area, Madiun City. This study has used quantitative research with a case-control research design. The study population was all dengue hemorrhagic fever patients recorded in medical records in Winongo and Nambangan Lor Villages with a period of January 2023-16 February 2024, totaling 29 cases. The sample used was 54 respondents, with 27 cases and 27 controls. The sampling technique used was purposive sampling, with the inclusion criteria of the case being that the patient had suffered from DHF disease, while the exclusion criteria were that the patient moved residence when the study was conducted. The Data analysis used was a univariate and bivariate analysis using the Chi-Square test. The results show that there is a relationship between the presence of hanging clothes p-value of 0.013 with an odds ratio of 5.091, there is no relationship between the distance from house to house p-value of 0.420 and an odds ratio of 2.841, and there a relationship between the implementation of eradication to prevent dengue fever transmission p-value of 0.029 and an odds ratio of 4.038. The variable with the highest risk for dengue hemorrhagic fever is the presence of hanging clothes. At the same time, the variable that has the most minor risk is the distance between houses. Therefore, it is expected that the Manguharjo Health Center can educate and counsel the community on implementing mosquito’s nest eradication to prevent transmission and minimize dengue cases.

Global burden, trends and inequalities for typhoid and paratyphoid fever among children younger than 15years over the past 30years.

Typhoid and paratyphoid fever, collectively known as enteric fever, are systemic infections caused by Salmonella enterica and are highly prevalent in children. We aimed to describe the global burden, trends and inequalities of enteric fever among children under 15years from 1990 to 2019 based on data from the Global Burden of Diseases, Injuries, and Risk Factors Study 2019 (GBD 2019). In this secondary analysis of GBD 2019, we extracted data for incident cases, deaths and disability-adjusted life-years (DALYs) as measures of enteric fever burden. We estimated the average annual percentage changes (AAPCs) in enteric fever incidence, mortality and DALYs rate to quantify trends over time. Cross-country inequalities in enteric fever incidence were measured using the slope index of inequality and concentration index. In 2019, the global cases of typhoid and paratyphoid were 4 833 282 and 1 793 172, respectively, both lower than those in 1990. On secondary analysis, paratyphoid incidence decreased at a faster rate than typhoid from 1990 to 2009, whereas the incidence of paratyphoid (AAPC = -3.78, 95% CI: -4.07, -3.49) declined slower than that of typhoid (AAPC = -4.32, 95% CI: -4.50, -4.13) from 2010 to 2019 (P < 0.05) at the global level. The incidence burden of enteric fever increased in Australasia (AAPC = 1.28, 95% CI: 0.77, 1.78) and Western Europe (AAPC = 0.77, 95% CI: 0.44, 1.11). Death and DALYs burden in low socio-demographic index (SDI) region showed a stable trend. A significant reduction in SDI-related inequality occurred, with the concentration index falling from -0.31 in 1990 to -0.22 in 2019. The global disease burden of enteric fever and the magnitude of inequalities across countries have declined since 1990, but low SDI countries remain a region of concern. Travellers from Oceania and Western Europe to endemic regions should be particularly aware of the risk of enteric fever.

The predictive values of C-reactive protein-neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio for the risk of refractory Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia in children: a retrospective cohort study.

This cohort study evaluated the associations of C-reactive protein-neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (C-NLR) and lymphocyte-CRP ratio (LCR) with refractory Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia (RMPP), and the predictive values of C-NLR and LCR for RMPP and prolonged fever in children based on 389 children with MPP. The associations of NLR, C-NLR, and LCR with RMPP and prolonged fever were evaluated by logistic regression analysis. C-NLR was correlated with an increased risk of RMPP in children [odds ratio (OR) = 3.459, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.598-7.491]. A higher risk of RMPP was identified in the C-NLR > 29.9 group (OR = 2.885, 95% CI: 1.599-5.203). LCR > 1584.2 was associated with a decreased risk of RMPP (OR = 0.500, 95% CI: 0.282-0.887). Increased risk of prolonged fever in children was identified with the increase of C-NLR (OR = 5.913, 95% CI: 2.335-14.972) or NLR (OR = 2.413, 95% CI: 1.689-3.446). The AUCs of C-NLR, LCR, and NLR for predicting RMPP were 0.630, 0.623, and 0.608, respectively. In conclusion, C-NLR was associated with increased RMPP risk in children and had good value for predicting RMPP and prolonged fever in children.

Molecular detection of dengue virus from febrile patients in Ghana

BackgroundViral hemorrhagic fevers (VHFs) belong to a group of viral infectious diseases that interfere with the blood’s clotting mechanism. VHF has a wide host range, including bats, rodents, or arthropods such as mosquitoes and ticks. Most VHFs emerge suddenly as outbreaks, making it difficult to predict occurrence. To be responsive to such outbreaks, the Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research (NMIMR) provides high-end molecular and genomic diagnostics capability for surveillance of suspected VHFs in samples collected from health facilities across the country.MethodsBetween January 2022 and December 2023, cross-sectional surveillance for viruses was conducted in patients with suspected VHF. During the period, 2586 serum or plasma samples were collected and transported under a cold chain to the NMIMR for testing. The samples were analyzed for potential VHF viruses including yellow fever, Ebola/Marburg, Lassa fever, and Dengue viruses using Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction Assay. Dengue positives were serotyped using the protocol of Johnson W.B et al.,2005. Whole genome sequencing was conducted using Illumina Next Generation Sequencing Technology. Using IQ-TREE, a maximum likelihood phylogenetic analysis was carried out.ResultsDengue virus (DENV) was detected in eight patient samples that subtyped to serotypes 1, 2, and 3. All dengue fever cases were resident in the Greater Accra region. The detection of serotype one increases the possibility of multiple infections in individuals and may have a worse or increased risk of severe dengue fever. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that the DENV-1 strain shared similarities to circulating strains in West Africa.ConclusionUntil the emergence of recent cases, the circulating subtype has been serotyped as Dengue one. There is therefore the need to intensify surveillance and also to control the mosquito vectors which can transmit these DENV in Ghana.

Prenatal and Postnatal Exposure to Organophosphate Esters and Replacement Flame Retardant Mixtures and Childhood Respiratory Outcomes

BackgroundEarly life exposure to single organophosphate esters (OPEs) and replacement brominated flame retardants (RBFRs) has been associated with adverse childhood respiratory outcomes, but the effects of OPE and RBFR mixtures are unknown. Methods377 pregnant women were recruited to the Health Outcomes and Measures of Environment (HOME) Study from 2003 to 2006 in Cincinnati, Ohio and later delivered singleton infants. We measured house dust OPEs and RBFRs prenatally at 20 weeks of gestation and postnatally at child age of 12 months and urinary OPEs prenatally at 16 and 26 weeks of gestation and at delivery and postnatally at child ages of 12 and 24 months. We performed Quantile G-computation (QG-computation) and Bayesian Kernel Machine Regression (BKMR) to assess the association of the exposure mixtures with wheeze and hay fever by child age of 5 years and evaluate the individual exposure effects and their interactions within the mixtures. ResultsIn QG-computation, a quartile increase in all urinary OPEs sampled at age 12 months was associated with 16% higher risk of wheeze (RR: 1.16, 95% CI: 1.01, 1.35). In BKMR, mixtures of prenatal OPEs and RBFRs, urinary OPEs at 16 weeks of gestation or 12 months of age and prenatal average urinary OPEs were associated with higher risk of childhood wheeze. Mixtures of prenatal average urinary OPEs were positively associated with childhood hay fever. When other exposures were fixed at their median value, prenatal dust tris(2-chloroethyl) phosphate (TCEP) and urinary bis(1,3-dichloro-2-propyl) phosphate (BDCIPP) were associated with higher hay fever risk, while dust prenatal tris(1-chloro-2-propyl) phosphate (TCIPP) was associated with lower risk. ConclusionsThese results suggest that early life exposure to OPE and RBFR mixtures may be risk factors for adverse respiratory outcomes in childhood.

Combating climate-induced health threats through Co-Constitutive Risk (CCR) Messaging: A One Health Communication approach.

Climate-facilitated spread of mosquito-borne pathogens to new environments elevates the importance of policies that limit greenhouse gas emissions as well as the development and uptake of new pharmaceutical interventions. Whereas past research attempts to bolster support for both through either climate or health risk communication, fewer attempt to combine the risks borne by climate change and infectious disease with a single messaging intervention, i.e., co-constitutive risk messaging (CCR), a strategy of an integrative approach we call One Health Communication. In a pre-registered experiment embedded in a nationally representative survey (N = 2,200), we test whether CCR messaging impacts support for pharmaceutical interventions to minimize dengue fever health risks and/or policy efforts to mitigate climate change. We find that CCR messages are generally effective at increasing support for pharmaceutical interventions aimed at ameliorating the health risks posed by dengue fever. Moreover, we find suggestive evidence that people who hold more collectivistic worldviews are especially receptive to messages that emphasize the public (vs. the personal) health risks of dengue fever. In post hoc exploratory analyses, we show that CCR messages affect public support for climate change mitigation policies among those who express doubts about human-caused climate change. We conclude by discussing the usefulness of CCR messaging and One Health Communication approaches more broadly in various strategic communication contexts and considering additional avenues for future research.

Exploring the dynamics of gut microbiota, antibiotic resistance, and chemotherapy impact in acute leukemia patients: A comprehensive metagenomic analysis

ABSTRACT Leukemia poses significant challenges to its treatment, and understanding its complex pathogenesis is crucial. This study used metagenomic sequencing to investigate the interplay between chemotherapy, gut microbiota, and antibiotic resistance in patients with acute leukemia (AL). Pre- and post-chemotherapy stool samples from patients revealed alterations in microbial richness, taxa, and antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs). The analysis revealed a decreased alpha diversity, increased dispersion in post-chemotherapy samples, and changes in the abundance of specific bacteria. Key bacteria such as Enterococcus, Klebsiella, and Escherichia coli have been identified as prevalent ARG carriers. Correlation analysis between gut microbiota and blood indicators revealed potential links between microbial species and inflammatory biomarkers, including C-reactive protein (CRP) and adenosine deaminase (ADA). This study investigated the impact of antibiotic dosage on microbiota and ARGs, revealing networks connecting co-occurring ARGs with microbial species (179 nodes, 206 edges), and networks associated with ARGs and antibiotic dosages (50 nodes, 50 edges). Antibiotics such as cephamycin and sulfonamide led to multidrug-resistant Klebsiella colonization. Our analyses revealed distinct microbial profiles with Salmonella enterica elevated post-chemotherapy in NF patients and Akkermansia muciniphila elevated pre-chemotherapy. These microbial signatures could inform strategies to modulate the gut microbiome, potentially mitigating the risk of neutropenic fever in patients undergoing chemotherapy. Finally, a comprehensive analysis of KEGG modules shed light on disrupted metabolic pathways after chemotherapy, providing insights into potential targets for managing side effects. Overall, this study revealed intricate relationships between gut microbiota, chemotherapy, and antibiotic resistance, providing new insights into improving therapy and enhancing patient outcomes.

Lassa fever outbreaks, mathematical models, and disease parameters: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Understanding the epidemiological parameters and transmission dynamics of Lassa fever, a significant public health threat in west Africa caused by the rodent-borne Lassa virus, is crucial for informing evidence-based interventions and outbreak response strategies. Therefore, our study aimed to collate and enhance understanding of the key epidemiological parameters of Lassa fever. We conducted a systematic review, searching PubMed and Web of Science for peer-reviewed studies published from database inception up to June 13, 2024, to compile and analyse key epidemiological parameters, mathematical models, and outbreaks of Lassa fever. English-language, peer-reviewed, original research articles were included if they reported on Lassa fever outbreak sizes, transmission models, viral evolution, transmission, natural history, severity, seroprevalence, or risk factors. Non-peer-reviewed literature was excluded. Data were extracted by two independent individuals from published literature, focusing on seroprevalence, transmissibility, epidemiological delays, and disease severity. We performed a meta-analysis to calculate pooled estimates of case-fatality ratios (CFRs) and the delay from symptom onset to hospital admission. This study is registered with PROSPERO (identifier number CRD42023393345). The database search returned 5614 potentially relevant studies, and a further 16 studies were identified from backward citation chaining. After de-duplication and exclusion, 193 publications met our inclusion criteria and provided 440 relevant parameter estimates in total. Although Lassa virus is endemic in west Africa, the spatiotemporal coverage of general-population seroprevalence estimates (ranging from 2·6% [6/232] to 58·2% [103/177]) was poor, highlighting the spatial uncertainty in Lassa fever risk. Similarly, only four basic reproduction number estimates (ranging from 1·13 to 1·40) were available. We estimated a pooled total random effect CFR of 33·5% (95% CI 25·8-42·2, I2=95%) and found potential variation in severity by geographical regions typically associated with specific Lassa virus lineages. We estimated a pooled total random effect mean symptom-onset-to-hospital-admission delay of 8·19 days (95% CI 7·31-9·06, I2=93%), but other epidemiological delays were poorly characterised in the existing literature. Our findings highlight the absence of empirical Lassa fever parameter estimates despite its high burden in west Africa. Improved surveillance approaches to capture mild cases in humans and to further cover rodent populations are needed to better understand Lassa fever transmission dynamics. Addressing these gaps is essential for developing accurate mathematical models and informing evidence-based interventions to mitigate the effect of Lassa fever on public health in endemic regions. UK Medical Research Council, National Institute for Health and Care Research, Academy of Medical Sciences, Wellcome, UK Department for Business, Energy, and Industrial Strategy, British Heart Foundation, Diabetes UK, Schmidt Foundation, Community Jameel, Royal Society, and Imperial College London. For the French translation of the abstract see Supplementary Materials section.

Correlation between Androgentic Alopecia and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 Omicron Variant Infection in China.

With the widespread prevalence of COVID-19, researchers have suggested a potential link between androgens and COVID-19 outcomes. However, the relationship between COVID-19 and androgenetic alopecia (AGA)-a condition strongly influenced by androgens-remains controversial in existing studies. Notably, there is a lack of large-scale clinical studies, particularly concerning data on the Chinese population after infection with the Omicron variant. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the correlation between AGA and severity of COVID-19 infection during the Omicron wave in China. We conducted this cross-sectional study of 1837 patients infected with Omicron variants, including 921 patients with AGA. The assessment of COVID-19 severity considered factors such as COVID-19 duration, the presence of fever, peak body temperature, and the fever duration. The results indicated that patients with AGA experienced milder overall COVID-19 symptoms than non-AGA patients. AGA was significantly associated with a shorter COVID-19 duration and fever duration, with this correlation being more pronounced in the female population. Males generally had a higher risk of fever (OR=0.784,95% confidence interval= 0.622-0.99) but experienced a shorter COVID-19 duration. The regular use of antiandrogen therapy prior to Omicron infection did not significantly correlate with COVID-19 disease severity, suggesting that 5-alpha reductase inhibitors-treated patients with AGA may not be able to relieve COVID-19 symptoms.

Plasma Metabolic Profiles via p-p Heterojunction-Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization Mass Spectrometry for Advanced Warning and Diagnosis of Epidural-Related Maternal Fever.

Epidural-related maternal fever (ERMF) heightens the risk of intrapartum fever, whereas effective prevention and treatment in clinical practice are currently lacking. Rapid and sensitive screening tools for ERMF are urgently needed to advance relevant research. In response to this challenge, we devise and craft porous Co3O4/CuO hollow polyhedral nanocages with p-p heterojunctions derived from metal-organic frameworks. We employ these p-p heterojunctions in conjunction with high-throughput mass spectrometry to conduct metabolic analysis of substantial plasma samples, with only about 0.03 μL per sample. Leveraging these p-p heterojunctions, metabolic signals from complex plasma can be amplified, with great reproducibility. By harnessing the power of machine learning on these metabolic signals, we are able to achieve advanced warning of ERMF with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.887-0.975 by the differentially metabolic analysis of plasma samples collected upon admission. Furthermore, we can accurately diagnose ERMF with an AUC of 0.850-1.000 by analyzing plasma samples collected at the time of delivery from individuals who have received epidural analgesia. These breakthroughs offer invaluable insights for clinical decision making during labor and have the potential to significantly reduce the incidence of ERMF.

A novel nomogram for predicting non-infectious fever in patients following laparoscopic myomectomy

This study aimed to develop and validate a novel nomogram to predict the risk of non-infectious fever (NIF) in patients following laparoscopic myomectomy. A retrospective analysis was conducted on data from patients who underwent laparoscopic myomectomy between 2019 and 2023. Pertinent variables before, during, and after surgery were collected. Multivariate logistic regression analysis identified independent risk factors for postoperative NIF, from which a nomogram was constructed. The study included 576 patients, among whom 64 (11.1%) developed postoperative NIF. Multivariate analysis identified leiomyoma size, number of leiomyomas, preoperative hemoglobin levels, operative time, and estimated blood loss as independent risk factors for postoperative NIF. A predictive nomogram model incorporating these factors demonstrated good accuracy following internal validation. The developed nomogram represents the first tool tailored for predicting NIF after laparoscopic myomectomy. Its implementation can assist clinicians in early identification of high-risk patients, facilitating timely preventive and management strategies.

Clinical characteristics associated with peripartum maternal bloodstream infection.

Bloodstream infection (BSI) during the peripartum period is a major cause of maternal morbidity and mortality. However, data on maternal BSI during hospitalization for delivery are limited. This study aimed to investigate the incidence, clinical characteristics, risk factors, microbiological features, and antibiotic resistance patterns of maternal peripartum BSI, with a focus on understanding the role of premature rupture of membranes (PROM), fever, and other risk factors in its development. We investigated the clinical characteristics associated with maternal BSI during the peripartum period. This study included febrile women with blood cultures obtained during hospitalization for delivery. We analyzed the clinical characteristics, pathogenic microorganisms, antibiotic resistance, and maternal and neonatal outcomes of these patients. Participants were divided into BSI (n = 85) and non-BSI (n = 361) groups. Spontaneous rupture of membranes, PROM, PROM >24 h before labor, vaginal examinations >5 times, and cesarean sections during labor were more common in the BSI group. Escherichia coli (51.8%; 44/85) was the predominant causative pathogen, followed by Enterococcus faecalis (7.1%, 6/85). Approximately 31.2% of E. coli were resistant to levofloxacin, and 38.6% were extended-spectrum β-lactamase-producing bacteria. The BSI group had higher rates of maternal sepsis and Apgar scores ≤ 7 at 1 min than the non-BSI group. Furthermore, PROM, fever ≥38.9°C (102°F), and fever within 24 h after delivery were risk factors for postpartum BSI in the adjusted analysis. Maternal BSI is a potentially life-threatening disease associated with PROM and the timing and severity of fever. Early identification and surveillance of pathogen composition and antimicrobial resistance can help prevent adverse outcomes.