High Incidence Of Disease Research Articles

Newborn Screening for Sickle Cell Disease: Results from a Pilot Study in the Portuguese Population

The Portuguese Newborn Screening Program currently includes 28 pathologies: congenital hypothyroidism, cystic fibrosis, 24 inborn errors of metabolism, sickle cell disease and spinal muscular atrophy. This pilot study for sickle cell disease newborn screening, including 188,217 samples, was performed between May 2021 and December 2023, with phase I, including 24,130 newborns, in the Lisbon and Setubal districts and phase II, including 164,087 newborns, in the whole country. DBS samples were analyzed through capillary electrophoresis. In phase I, a high birth incidence of sickle cell disease was found (1:928 NBs), resulting from the identification of 24 HbSS and 2 HbSC patients. This birth incidence decreased but remained significant when the pilot study for sickle cell disease newborn screening was expanded to a national level, with the identification of 67 sickle cell disease patients (59 HbSS and 8 HbSC), revealing a birth incidence of 1:2449 NBs. These data suggest that this condition is becoming increasingly relevant in Portugal, thus reflecting a general European trend, where sickle cell disease is already recognized as a public health problem. Therefore, it highlights the importance of its integration into the Portuguese National Newborn Screening Program panel in January 2024, thus allowing the early identification and clinical follow-up of these patients.

P1273 High Crohn's Disease incidence associated with multiple heavy metal contamination in agricultural soils: findings from the CROPS project in Northern France

Abstract Background Crohn's Disease (CD) is a chronic intestinal disease with an unclear etiology and suspected environmental risk factors. The CROPS (CROhn’s disease and Pollution of Soils) project was initiated in Northern France to investigate links between the high incidence of CD and environmental pollutants. In this context, we combined data of a population-based registry of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) with environmental sampling data to identify the environmental profile of multi-contamination associated with high incidence. Methods This ecological study was conducted at the municipal level within the coverage area of the registry in Northern France. All patients diagnosed between 2000 and 2017 were included (n=9,019). Spatial clusters of significantly high (n=4) and low (n=4) CD incidence, adjusted for age and sex, were identified based on patients' residence addresses at diagnosis. Within these clusters, environmental sampling was performed across 240 sites using a hexagonal grid to ensure 30 samples per cluster. A total of 490 parameters were analyzed: 306 in soil (including emerging pollutants such as hormones and antibiotics, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons [PAHs], heavy metals, and pesticides), 152 in tap water (examining heavy metals and PAHs), and 30 in lichens (assessing heavy metals as indicators of air quality). Multi-contamination indices, such as the Mean Impregnation Ratio (MIR) and Pollution Index, were applied. Data analysis included Principal Component Analysis (PCA), Hierarchical Cluster Analysis (HCA), and Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) tests. Results High-incidence clusters, predominantly agricultural, had elevated heavy metal concentrations in soil (notably chromium, arsenic, zinc, and nickel), sulfadiazine in soils, high nitrate levels in water, and heavy metals in lichens. Low-incidence clusters, with greater urbanization, showed elevated PAHs in soil, heavy metals in water, and BPA in soils. Pollution profiles aligned with different land covers, with significant findings for agricultural lands (p<0.0001). A positive correlation between the relative risk and soil’s MIR for heavy metals in agricultural zones was noted (r=0.557, p=0.005). Conclusion These findings suggest a possible link between high CD incidence and heavy metal exposure in agricultural lands. Profiles of pollution were created for each cluster. Future studies should expand on pesticide and agricultural pollutant analysis to strengthen this hypothesis, and consider individual-level epidemiological approaches to further elucidate these potential environmental risk factors.

Identification and Construction of a R-loop Mediated Diagnostic Model and Associated Immune Microenvironment of COPD through Machine Learning and Single-Cell Transcriptomics.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a prevalent chronic inflammatory airway disease with high incidence and significant disease burden. R-loops, functional chromatin structure formed during transcription, are closely associated with inflammation due to its aberrant formation. However, the role of R-loop regulators (RLRs) in COPD remains unclear. Utilizing both bulk transcriptome data and single-cell RNA sequencing data, we assessed the diverse expression patterns of RLRs in the lung tissues of COPD patients. A lower R-loop score was found in patients with COPD and in neutrophils. 12 machine learning algorithms (150 combinations) identified 14 hub RLRs (CBX8, EHD4, HDLBP, KDM6B, NFAT5, NLRP3, NUP214, PAFAH1B3, PINX1, PLD1, POLB, RCC2, RNF213, and VIM) associated with COPD. A RiskScore based on 14 RLRs identified two distinct COPD subtypes. Patient groups at high risk of COPD (low R-loop scores) had a higher immune score and a significant increase in neutrophils in their immune microenvironment compared to low-risk groups. PD-0325901 and QL-X-138 represent prospective COPD treatments for high-risk (low R-loop score) and low-risk (high R-loop score) patients. Finally, RT-PCR experiments confirmed expression differences of 8 RLRs (EHD4, HDLBP, NFAT5, NLRP3, PLD1, PINX1, POLB, and VIM) in COPD mice lung tissue. R-loops significantly contribute to the development of COPD and constructing predictive models based on RLRs may provide crucial insight into personalized treatment strategies for patients with COPD.

Oxygenated subsurface drip irrigation and organic fertilizer increase the yield and quality of P. notoginseng by improving soil microenvironment

AbstractYunnan Province has the most extensive planting of Panax notoginseng (Burk) F. H. Chen, comprising more than 90% of the country's area. Many traditional cultivators employ outdated water and fertilizer management practices, which lead to inefficient utilization of these resources, a higher incidence of diseases, and a decrease in both yield and quality. Therefore, this study hopes to propose a new planting scheme with irrigation and fertilizer application to improve the yield and quality of P. notoginseng. The study focused on 5‐year‐old P. notoginseng, employing three irrigation techniques: oxygenated subsurface drip irrigation (OI), micro‐sprinkler irrigation (SI), and surface drip irrigation (DI). Additionally, four fertilizer application rates were examined: low (F1: 75 kg ha−1), medium (F2: 100 kg ha−1), medium‐high (F3: 125 kg ha−1), and high (F4: 150 kg ha−1). The results showed that oxygenated subsurface drip irrigation significantly increased the soil water content in the 0–40 cm soil layer. In addition, with the increase of organic fertilizer application, the fertilizer use efficiency (PFP) showed a downward trend. Under the interaction of different irrigation methods and fertilizer application amount, OIF3 treatment significantly promoted root growth, enhancing root hydraulic conductivity, and the root‐shoot ratio led to a reduction in the incidence of root rot (5.72%), the highest yield (4649.70 kg ha−1), and the best irrigation water utilization efficiency (9.69 kg m−3), fertilizer utilization efficiency (1.55 kg kg−1) and total saponin content (12.50%). The TOPSIS model was utilized to perform an all‐encompassing assessment of P. notoginseng yield, irrigation water utilization efficiency, fertilizer utilization efficiency, and total saponin content; it was found that OIF3 treatment was optimal. This combination can create higher yield and improve the quality of P. notoginseng, which provides a new scientific planting mode and reduces the planting cost.

Trachemys scripta Eggs as Part of a Potential In Vivo Model for Studying Sea Turtle Egg Fusariosis.

The fungal pathogens Fusarium keratoplasticum and Fusarium falciforme are responsible for the emerging infectious disease named sea turtle egg fusariosis (STEF). This disease affects all sea turtle species throughout the world, causing low hatching success and mass mortalities. In this study, we investigated the potential use of widely available and easy-to-handle eggs of the invasive alien red-eared slider turtle, Trachemys scripta, as part of an in vivo host model to improve our knowledge of the biological properties of the pathogens responsible of the STEF. Specifically, we performed in vivo experiments, in which T. scripta eggs were challenged with conidia of F. keratoplasticum isolated from diseased sea turtle eggs. We found that the pathogen could colonize and develop similar signs to those observed in nature and fulfill Koch's postulates. The pathogen showed high virulence properties (e.g., high disease incidence, severity, and low hatching success) and its ability to modify the pH in both the egg surface and culture media, confirming previously described fungal pathogen models. These results support the use of T. scripta as an experimental in vivo host model for studying the biological characteristics of STEF, thus providing valuable insights into the mechanisms underlying the emergence of this fungal disease.

Vitamin D3 requirements and relative bioavailability for starter male White Pekin ducks fed either cholecalciferol or 25-hydroxycholecalciferol

The objectives were to investigate effects of various concentrations of dietary vitamin D3 (VD3) or 25-hydroxycholecalciferol (25-OH-D3) on growth performance, VD3 status, calcium (Ca) metabolism, and tibia mineralization of starter male White Pekin ducks, and dietary requirements and relative bioavailability of these two compounds. One-day-old male White Pekin ducks (n = 624) were assigned to 13 dietary treatments, including 6 added VD3 concentrations (100, 200, 400, 800, 1200, and 2000 IU/kg), and 2 vitamin D3 sources (VD3 and 25-OH-D3), plus a negative control (no vitamin D3 supplementation) for 21 days. Each group had 6 replicate pens of 8 birds per pen. At 21 days of age, growth performance, carcass traits, plasma 25-OH-D3 and Ca content, and tibia mineralization were examined. There was a high incidence of leg disease and mortality in ducks fed the control diet; however, those negative effects were avoided by adequate VD3 or 25-OH-D3 supplementation. Ducks in the negative control group had the lowest body weight, average daily weight gain (ADG), average daily feed intake (ADFI), breast muscle percentage, plasma 25-OH-D3, plasma Ca, and tibia indices (weight, diameter, ash, density, tibia mineral, strength) (P < 0.05), with all these end points enhanced linearly or quadratically as dietary VD3 or 25-OH-D3 increased (P < 0.05). Furthermore, at 100 or 200 IU/kg, ducks fed 25-OH-D3 had greater body weight, ADG, ADFI, plasma Ca, plasma 25-OH-D3, tibia weight, tibia diameter, tibia ash than those fed VD3 (P < 0.05), indicating 25-OH-D3 was more effective in stimulating growth, Ca absorption, and tibia mineralization. For growth performance, breast muscle percentage, plasma Ca, and tibial indices of starter male Pekin ducks, the VD3 requirements were 281 to 633 IU/kg, whereas 25-OH-D3 requirements were 119 to 395 IU/kg. Based on slope ratio comparisons from multiple linear regressions of plasma 25-OH-D3, bioavailability of 25-OH-D3 was 186% relative to cholecalciferol.

Precision medicine using molecular-target drugs in psoriatic arthritis.

Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) presents various clinical manifestations, including skin lesions, peripheral arthritis, axial involvement, enthesitis, nail involvement, dactylitis, and uveitis. In addition, it causes a high incidence of lifestyle-related diseases and an increase in cerebrovascular and cardiovascular events. As the pathology of PsA has been clarified, molecular-targeted drugs targeting tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin (IL)-17A, IL-17A/F, IL-17 receptor, IL-12/23(p40), IL-23p19, Cytotoxic T-lymphocyte Antigen-4 (CTLA-4), Janus kinase, and phosphodiesterase-4 have been developed and are widely used in clinical practice. PsA is clinically and molecularly heterogeneous, and it is necessary to improve various clinical symptoms with limited treatment options simultaneously; therefore, rheumatologists sometimes encounter difficult situations in clinical practice. Hence, the development of precision medicine may improve treatment outcomes. Recently, the strategic use of molecular-targeted drugs based on the stratification of patients with PsA by peripheral blood lymphocyte phenotyping and serum cytokine concentrations has been reported to possibly lead to a higher therapeutic response. A randomized controlled trial was initiated to verify the efficacy of this treatment strategy. However, to make precision medicine in PsA feasible, shifting from conventional clinical trials to clinical trials based on biomarker profiles and accumulating further data are necessary.

High risk and low incidence diseases: Stercoral colitis.

Stercoral colitis is a rare but serious diagnosis which is associated with a high rate of morbidity. This review highlights the pearls and pitfalls of stercoral colitis, including presentation, diagnosis, and emergency department (ED) management based on the available evidence. Stercoral colitis is an uncommon inflammatory condition of the distal large bowel and rectum resulting from accumulation of impacted stool and is associated with several complications including bowel ulceration, ischemia, perforation, peritonitis, and sepsis. Though most commonly present with abdominal pain and constipation, many patients present without typical symptoms requiring emergency clinicians to maintain high clinical suspicion, especially in patients at high risk for developing severe constipation. The diagnosis can be secured with cross-sectional radiography, including computed tomography of the abdomen and pelvis. ED management includes fluid resuscitation, initiation of a multimodal bowel regimen, and if indicated, initiation of parenteral antibiotics and consultation with a surgical specialist. Admission to the hospital should be considered for all patients with stercoral colitis. An understanding of stercoral colitis can assist emergency clinicians in diagnosing and appropriately managing this high risk disease.

Prevalence of Haemophilus influenzae in the nasopharynx of children from regions with varying incidence of invasive H. influenzae serotype a disease: Canadian Immunization Research Network (CIRN) study

ABSTRACT Haemophilus influenzae serotype a (Hia) has recently emerged as an important cause of invasive disease in the North American Arctic and Sub-Arctic regions, mainly affecting young Indigenous children. In this study, we addressed the question of whether the prevalence of Hia and all H. influenzae in the nasopharynx differed between paediatric populations from regions with high versus low incidence of invasive Hia disease. Nasopharyngeal specimens from children with acute respiratory tract infections (ARTI) collected for routine diagnostic detection of respiratory viruses were analysed with molecular-genetic methods to identify and serotype H. influenzae. In Nunavut, a region with a high incidence of invasive Hia disease, all H. influenzae and particularly Hia were found in the nasopharynx of 60.6% and 3.0% children. In Southern Ontario (Hamilton region), where Hia invasive disease is rare, the frequencies of all H. influenzae and Hia detection were 38.5% and 0.6%, respectively. In both cohorts, non-typeable H. influenzae was prevalent (57.0% and 37.9%, respectively). Considering that Hia is an important cause of severe invasive disease in Nunavut children, 3% prevalence of Hia among children with ARTI can reflect continuing circulation of the pathogen in the Northern communities that may result in invasive disease outbreaks.

The shortage of medicines as a violation of the human right to health

It is unquestionable that during the last decades the importance of Human Rights has been reaffirmed, as prerogatives responsible for recognizing and protecting the dignity of human beings; Notwithstanding the above, in the case of Mexico there are multiple cases of complaints filed due to constant violations thereof. In this sense, the objective of this investigation is to demonstrate the violation of the human right to health, through the shortage of medicines. The approach used was quantitative, the deductive method, with a descriptive scope of the study and as data collection and analysis techniques, a closed survey was applied and the data obtained was graphed. The results show a high incidence of chronic diseases among those surveyed, exacerbated by the low availability of essential medicines, which is why it is essential to implement policies that ensure the adequate and timely supply of medicines to users of the state health system and, consequently, respect for this fundamental human right.

A systematic review and meta-analysis investigating the impact of exercise interventions on heart rate variability in hemodialysis patients

Patients with chronic kidney disease have a high incidence of cardiovascular diseases, and autonomic dysfunction has a determinant role in the relevant declines. Physical exercise influences heart rate variability and cardiac autonomic modulation. Thus, our objective was to systematically review, with a meta-analysis, the correlation between physical exercise interventions and alterations in cardiac autonomic modulation in hemodialysis patients. A customized research strategy was used across four databases. The search yielded 392 studies, with eight randomized clinical trials included (396 participants), indicating that the investigated indices favor the intervention group by increasing autonomic activity. The exercise training probably increases the standard deviation of all NN intervals (20.71 ms CI 95% [9.55, 31.87], p < 0.001, I²=95%) compared to the control group and showing an moderate certainty, was the most commonly used index (seven studies). Mean RR (35.57 ms CI 95% [14.56, 56.57], p = 0.91, I²=0%), the root mean square sum of squares of differences between NN intervals (10.55 ms CI 95% [6.75, 14.34], p = 0.37, I²=4%), and LF/HF (0.28 ms (n.u) [0.11, 0.44], p = 0.18, I²=39%) were also in favor of the training group. However, based on the GRADE analysis we are uncertain whether Mean RR can increase after an exercise intervention, as well RMSSD and LF/HF may increase slightly, we obtained low certainty of this evidence. The exact magnitude of the impact of physical training on the alteration of cardiac autonomic modulation in this patient population has yet to be conclusively defined.

Nonsurgical Treatment and Prevention of Osgood Schlatter Disease

Teenagers are starting to participate in sports in greater numbers due to the recent expansion in the sports business and the spectacular holding of the Olympics in Paris. However, sports injuries during the sports process are also an unavoidable problem, such as tibial tuberosity osteochondritis (OSD), which is a high-incidence disease among adolescent athletes and is troubling many teenagers. The youth population represents the future of a country. Therefore, it is crucial to help them avoid OSD as much as possible and recover from it as soon as possible. This article briefly describes the diagnostic methods and risk factors of OSD, including clinical manifestations and analysis of the advantages and disadvantages of different diagnostic methods such as X-ray, ultrasound, and MRI. The focus is on non-surgical treatment and prevention of OSD, with a particular emphasis on physical therapy (including strength training (core stability training, and lower limb strength training), activity adjustment, stretching, and rehabilitation massage, as well as wearing orthopedic devices) and medication therapy.

Escherichia coli Nissle Improves Short-Chain Fatty Acid Absorption and Barrier Function in a Mouse Model for Chronic Inflammatory Diarrhea.

Defects in SLC26A3, the major colonic Cl-/HCO3- exchanger, result in chloride-rich diarrhea, a reduction in short-chain fatty acid (SCFA)-producing bacteria, and a high incidence of inflammatory bowel disease in humans and in mice. Slc26a3-/- mice are, therefore, an interesting animal model for spontaneous but mild colonic inflammation and for testing strategies to reverse or prevent the inflammation. This study investigates the effect of Escherichia coli Nissle (EcN) application on the microbiome, SCFA production, barrier integrity, and mucosal inflammation in slc26a3-/- mice. In vivo fluid absorption and bicarbonate secretion were assessed in the gut of slc26a3+/+ and slc26a3-/- mice before and during luminal perfusion with 100mM sodium acetate. Age-matched slc26a3+/+ and slc26a3-/- mice were intragastrically gavaged twice daily with 2 × 108 CFU/100 µL of EcN for 21 days. Body weight and stool water content were assessed daily, and stool and tissues were collected for further analysis. Addition of sodium acetate to the lumen of the proximal colon significantly increased fluid absorption and luminal alkalinization in the slc26a3-/- mice. Gavage with EcN resulted in a significant increase in SCFA levels and the expression of SCFA transporters in the slc26a3-/- cecum, the predominant habitat of EcN in mice. This was accompanied by an increase in mucus-producing goblet cells and a decrease in the expression of inflammatory markers as well as host defense antimicrobial peptides. EcN did not improve the overall diversity of the luminal microbiome but resulted in a significant increase in SCFA producers Lachnospiraceae and Ruminococcaceae in the slc26a3-/- feces. These findings suggest that EcN is able to proliferate in the inflamed cecum, resulting in increased microbial SCFA production, decreased inflammation, and improved gut barrier properties. In sufficient dosage, probiotics may thus be an effective anti-inflammatory strategy in the diseased gut.

Perception of resource-limited livestock farmers on adaptation management strategies in drought-prone rural areas in Eastern Cape province, South Africa

Livestock farming is a crucial source of income and livelihood. However, its sustainability is being adversely affected by the unpredictable climatic changes. It would be valuable to comprehend how livestock farmers perceive climate change (CC) and the adaptation strategies. This study evaluated farmers’ views of climate change impact, adaptation measures, and the obstacles to these measures. A cross-sectional and multi-stage sampling method was employed. Data collected from 300 randomly chosen farmers were analysed using descriptive statistics and the Garrett ranking technique. Most of the respondents were male (71.67%) and between the ages of 21-60 (62%). Most respondents were married (67%) and had a form of education. Increased disease occurrence, decreased livestock production rate, increased poor vegetation, increased water scarcity, and ambient temperature were perceived by the respondents to have been impacted ‘to a great extent’ by 45%, 38%, 53%, 36% and 42%, respectively. Perceived and rated as ‘to a great extent’ by the respondents on climate change impact were ‘increased distance covered by livestock for water and pasture (29%), decreased growth rate (28%), and increased ambient temperature (30%)’. Based on descending mean rank, the farmers’ most favoured strategies for adapting to climate change included reducing their livestock numbers (58.98), collecting and storing water (55.66) and planning for supplementary feeding (55.35). The income management strategies under CC include off-farm employment (55.48), borrowing from self-help groups (54.48), and friends and relatives (50.72), in that order. The top barriers to CC, in descending order of mean rank, by the farmers include a high incidence of pests and diseases (61.47%), non-availability of improved forage seed (52.06), lack of appropriate water harvesting facilities (51.84), smaller/ fragmented land holding for forage (51.56) and scarcity of farm labour (47.75). The livestock farmers’ perception of climate change impacts indicated that most of the factors examined were rated as significant. Most respondents are aware of climate change (CC) and its repercussions on livestock productivity. Key words: Livestock productivity, management strategies, policies, sustainability, climate change, productivity, perception, farmers

Incidence and Distribution of Begomoviruses (BGMV) infecting Ornamental plants in Multan Region, Pakistan

Begomovirus is the largest and important genus in virus taxonomy. It has more than 400 widespread species causing diseases in different plant families. Besides cash crops, begomoviruses also infect ornamental plants which lead to significant losses and lower market value. The accurate and precise knowledge of incidence and distribution of the plant viruses is mandatory for the management of plant viruses. The research study was aimed to assess the distribution and to estimate the disease incidence of begomoviruses infecting ornamental plants in Multan region which include district Multan, Lodhran, Khanewal and Vehri. Overall, 174 leaf samples of ornamental plants from different sites in Multan region were collected. Total genomic DNA from ornamental plants were extracted with CTAB method and subjected to PCR for the amplification of partial coat proteins gene using universal primers. Total incidence data of begomoviruses infecting ornamental plants in Multan region was calculated as 54% while district wise disease incidence percentage was recorded as 58.06% in district Multan, 55.88% in Vehari, 55.26% in Lodhran and 50% in Khanewal. High disease incidence was recorded in Euphorbia tithymalioides as 77.7%, followed by Hibiscus rosa-sinensis 71.4%, Euphorbia milli 70.5%, Tabernaemontana divaricate 66.6%, Tecoma stans 54.5%, Jasminum sambac 37.5% and Radermachera sinica 20% while Quisqualis indica, Irresine herbstii, Cordia dichotoma, Ficus benjamina, Bougainvillea and Hamelia patens were found uninfected. Uneven distribution of begomoviruses was observed with maximum distribution 38.2% in district Multan and minimum 19.1% in Vehari. The study gave a vivid picture of ornamental plants harboring begomoviruses and that could lead to a vital part of an integrated management of these viruses.

Sustainable coffee leaf rust management: The role of soil covering, conditioners and controlled‐release fertilizers

AbstractSustainable soil management to optimize water use and enhance nutrient uptake is a promising approach for decreasing the incidence of coffee leaf rust. This work analysed soil coverings, fertilizers and soil conditioners to optimize water usage and nutrients in coffee rust management. The experiment was set up in the field in January 2016, with seedlings of Coffea arabica ‘Mundo Novo IAC – 379‐19’, susceptible to rust. The experimental design was in randomized blocks with three replications and arranged in a 3 × 2 × 5 factorial scheme. We assessed the combination of three soil coverings (plastic film, Urochloa decumbens and bare soil), two fertilizer types (conventional and controlled release) and five soil conditioners (organic compound, coffee husk, agricultural gypsum, water‐retaining polymer and control without soil conditioner). The rust incidence and foliage progress curve were integrated into the area under the rust incidence or foliage progress curve. Additionally, we assessed the leaf area index and coffee yield. The association of U. decumbens with controlled‐release fertilizers and organic compound or coffee husk increased coffee foliage and yield despite higher disease incidence.

Isolation and characterization of a Bdellovibrio bacteriovorus from fish pond water.

The intricate habitats of aquatic organisms, coupled with the prevalence of pathogens, contribute to a high incidence of various diseases, particularly bacterial infections. Consequently, the formulation of sustainable and effective disease management strategies is crucial for the thriving aquaculture sector. In this investigation, a strain of Bdellovibrio bacteriovorus, designated B. bacteriovorus FWA, was isolated from a freshwater fish pond. Identification was achieved through microscopic examination of morphological characteristics, biochemical property assessment, and phylogenetic analysis. The lysogenic capability of B. bacteriovorus FWA was evaluated, revealing its effectiveness in lysing Escherichia coli, Aeromonas hydrophila, Vibrio alginolyticus, Vibrio parahaemolyticus, and Edwardsiella tarda. Physiological analysis indicated that the optimal ratio of B. bacteriovorus FWA to host bacteria was 1:10,000, with strict aerobic requirements. The optimal pH range for growth and reproduction was 7.0-8.0, the ideal temperature was found to be 30-35°C, with a preferred Na+ concentration of 0% and a Ca2+ concentration of 15-25 mM. Additionally, B. bacteriovorus FWA demonstrated enhanced lytic activity against bacteria in aquaculture effluent while effectively managing ammonia-nitrogen levels. In summary, B. bacteriovorus FWA holds significant promise for development as a probiotic agent in aquaculture.

Survey and Disease Prevalence of Sorghum Zonate Leaf Spot in the Terai Region of Uttarakhand, India

Aims: The objective of the study was to conduct a disease survey to understand the regional dynamics of sorghum zonate leaf spot disease in the Uttarakhand Terai region. Study Design: The investigation was carried out using a stratified random sampling technique. Place and Duration of Study: GBPUA&amp;T, Pantnagar and Terai Region of Uttarakhand during Kharif 2024. Methodology: The survey was conducted from July to September 2024, covering several stages of sorghum crop development. A stratified random sampling technique was used to select fields, and observations were recorded on plants making five stops in a W-pattern to cover the whole field on foot. The disease incidence and severity were scored and recorded. Results: The survey covered 25 fields and disease incidence &amp; severity were recorded using a standard scale. The study found that the prevalence and severity of zonate leaf spot disease (G. sorghi) varied significantly between locations, with the highest disease incidence in Chikaghat (71.11%) and lowest in Kanthgri (43.56%) from Sitarganj block. Environmental parameters such as temperature, humidity, and rainfall were directly linked to the occurrence and severity of zonate leaf spots. Conclusion: The study concluded that zonate leaf spot disease is a significant problem in the Uttarakhand Terai Region. Developing efficient management techniques to reduce zonate leaf spot negative effects on crop productivity might be facilitated by knowledge of the distribution and contributing elements. To control zonate leaf spot in these areas, more study is required to investigate resistant cultivars and better agronomic methods.

Knowledge and awareness of asbestos risk among General Practitioners: Validation of a questionnaire in an area with a high incidence of asbestos-related diseases

ObjectiveGiven the critical role of general practitioners (GPs) in the early diagnosis and management of asbestos-related diseases (ARDs), and the significant history of asbestos fibres pollution in Alessandria Local Health Authority (ASL AL), this project aimed to assess the knowledge and awareness of asbestos risks, as well as the experience in diagnosing ARDs among GPs working in Alessandria province, Northern Italy. MethodsA questionnaire was administered to 216 GPs from all ASL AL territorial districts during 26 Territorial Assistance Teams (EAT) meetings, held from September 2022 to January 2023. It contained 29 questions covering three main areas: ‘knowledge and awareness’, ‘competence and experience’, ‘sociodemographic characteristics and workload’. ResultsAlthough GPs were aware of the health hazards of asbestos (94 %) and the increased risk of mesothelioma from asbestos exposure (92.6 %), significant disparities and heterogeneity of knowledge were observed among territorial districts and by comparing Casale Monferrato district with all the others, particularly regarding asbestos exposure routes, reporting of occupational diseases, and mesothelioma latency. ConclusionsThis project provides a comprehensive overview of GP's knowledge, awareness and experience in managing ARDs, providing indications of customised training requirements. This evaluation could be extended to all areas with a history of previous asbestos exposure and provide a useful tool for policy makers to define and plan strategic actions on asbestos. This work could also be adapted to different realities with a history of environmental pollutant exposure other than asbestos, which pose a risk for the development of several diseases.

Mitochondrial Dysfunction and Metabolic Indicators in Patients with Drug-Naive First-Episode Schizophrenia: A Case-Control Study.

This paper aims to explore the expression characteristics of mitochondrial function-related genes in patients with first-episode schizophrenia (SCZ)and the correlation between differentially expressed genes and clinical metabolic indicators. Twenty patients with first-episode SCZ who had not taken antipsychotic drugs (patient group) and twenty healthy controls (control group) were included. Quantitative real-time PCR technology was used to detect the expression levels of genes related to mitochondrial quality control and oxidative phosphorylation in peripheral blood leukocytes, and metabolic indicators such as blood biochemistry and blood glucose were collected. The gene expression levels of key genes related to mitochondrial function, PGC-1a, PARK2, and LC3B, in the patient group were significantly lower than those in the control group (P < 0.05). Correlation analysis showed that the expression level of PGC-1a gene in the patient group was negatively correlated with very low-density lipoprotein levels (r =-0.451), and the expression level of PARK2 gene in the patient group was negatively correlated with uric acid levels (r =-0.447). The expression levels of multiple key genes in the mitochondrial quality control and oxidative phosphorylation processes in patients with first-episode SCZ display a downward trend. The differentially expressed genes are correlated with the metabolic abnormalities of the patients, suggesting that mitochondrial dysfunction may be related to the high incidence of metabolic diseases in patients with SCZ.