Month Of November Research Articles

First Data Related to Evaluation of Bacterial Diversity and Physicochemical Structure for Winter in Kilis Surface Waters, Türkiye

Water temperature is one of mainly the seasonal dynamics influencing microbial quality in aquatic ecosystems; however, discerning the interaction betweeen temperature and bacterial diversity is challenging. To address this issue, we characterized the microbial community of surface waters obtained from November month (in 1990 and 2020) with of average 1 °C temperature increase at the Kilis, Türkiye by the 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Bacterial communities indicated high similarities in the relative abundances of dominant taxa (Proteobacteria) for both sampling sites. Our findings highlighted that temperature change favored the duplication of opportunistic thermotolerant bacteria, including total coliform and E.coli which may increase waterborne-disease. This study provides comprehensive information about phylogenetic diversity, quantitatively assessing indicator microorganisms and the physicochemical potential of water quality within two surface waters in Kilis. Our climatic data estimates to be the November average rate of 2.5 °C/increase associated with air temperature of Kilis region for next 30 years. The current study is the first exploration to combine climate change with molecular approaches to predict how bacterial concentrations in aquatic environments may change in future based on long-term air temperature increase for Kilis region.

Rainfall-Groundwater Table Fluctuations Impact on Root Zone Soil Water Simulated in Upflow for Crop Production Planning in Obio Akpa Watershed, Nigeria

The non-predictability of rainfall-groundwater table relationships in the ungauged Obio Akpa watershed has rubbished remedial measures against seasonal crop losses. This study utilizes ten years (2011-2020) climate data obtained from the study area to predict the seasonal rainfall-groundwater table variations and simulate the effects on crop root zone using Upflow model. Twelve wells monitored monthly, characterized the seasonal behaviour of the Groundwater Table (GT). Gravimetric direct measurements of soil water contents were the inputs to UPFLOW model used to simulate the seasonal responses of GT to rainfall. Correlation-regression analysis was used to obtain a prediction equation of GT responses to rainfall. Results showed that in the month of April, the mean rainfall of 230mm induced GT rise of 1.35m (35%) from 3.85m in March to 2.50m in April. The effect on the soil water properties included a corresponding increase of 1.8 vol.% (10.7%) in field capacity at equilibrium with the water table in the preceding month. Mean soil water condition remained optimal at 15.9 vol.% with the GT at 1.5m below the root zone. In September and October when 1859mm and 2129mm of the mean annual rainfall was received, the water table increased by 72% and 74% respectively, and field capacity in equilibrium with the GT increased to 34.9 vol.%. causing GT inundation of the root zone (RZ) and deficit aeration in 74% of the RZ respectively. In November, with reduced rainfall amount and decreased input to groundwater, only 16% of the RZ was in deficit aeration. UPFLOW simulations of the annual soil water regime showed the months of September, October and November as high GT months suitable for planting and harvesting of only shallow rooted, short maturity crops. This knowledge will guide effective water resources and crop management in the watershed.

Boreal Winter Extratropical Weather Regime Changes During 1979–2019 and Their Weather Impacts and Possible Linkages to Sea‐Ice in the Nordic Seas

AbstractPrevious studies have suggested possible connections between the decreasing Arctic sea‐ice and long‐duration (>5 days, LD) cold weather events in Eurasia and North America. Here we document the occurrences of weather regimes in winter by their durations, based on the empirical orthogonal function analyses of the daily geopotential height fields at 500 hPa (z500) for the months of November–March 1979–2019. Significant changes in the occurrence frequency and persistence of Ural ridge (UR) and weak stratospheric polar vortex (PV) were found between winters following high and low autumn sea‐ice covers (SIC) in the Barents and Kara seas. It is shown that a strengthening of the UR is accompanied with a weakening of the PV, and a weak PV favors Greenland ridge (GR). Cold spells in East Asia persist for 5 more days after an LDUR. Cold spells from Canada to the U.S. occur 2–5 days after an LD Ural trough (UT) and are associated with a z500 anomaly dipole centered over Alaska (+) and Hudson Bay (−). Cold spells in the eastern U.S. occur 1–4 days after an LDGR due to circulations resembling the Pacific‐North America pattern. Increased occurrences of UR in winter are associated with a decreased eastward propagation of synoptic waves from the North Atlantic to Japan and the North Pacific.

An Empirical Examination of Bitcoin’s Halving Effects: Assessing Cryptocurrency Sustainability within the Landscape of Financial Technologies

This article explores the significance of Bitcoin halving events within the cryptocurrency ecosystem and their impact on market dynamics. While the existing literature addresses the periods before and after Bitcoin halving, as well as financial bubbles, there is an absence of forecasting regarding Bitcoin price in the time after halving. To address this gap and provide predictions of Bitcoin price development, we conducted a rigorous analysis of past halving events in 2012, 2016, and 2020, focusing on Bitcoin price behaviour before and after each occurrence. What interests us is not only the change in the price level of Bitcoins (top and bottom), but also when this turn occurs. Through synthesizing data and trends from previous events, this article aims to uncover patterns and insights that illuminate the impact of Bitcoin halving on market dynamics and sustainability, movement of the price level, the peaks reached, and price troughs. Our approach involved employing methods such as RSI, MACD, and regression analysis. We looked for the relationship between the price of Bitcoin (top and bottom) and the number of days after the halving. We have uncovered a mathematical model, according to which the next peak will be reached 19 months (in November 2025) and the trough 31 months after Bitcoin halving 2024 (in November 2026). Looking towards the future, this study estimates predictions and expectations for the upcoming Bitcoin halving. These discoveries significantly enhance our understanding of Bitcoin’s trajectory and its implications for the finance cryptocurrency market. By offering novel insights into cryptocurrency market dynamics, this study contributes to advancing knowledge in the field and provides valuable information for cryptocurrency markets, investors, and stakeholders.

Narratives of postpartum women about childbirth care practices

The objective of this article was to investigate the narratives of postpartum women about childbirth care practices. This is narrative research with a qualitative approach, whose setting was the municipality of Sobral, Ceará, in a reference maternity hospital for the 11th health region. Information collection took place in the months of November and December 2023, with 14 postpartum women. The research was approved by the Research Ethics Committee, with opinion no. 6,478,196. Thus, it can be seen that the majority of women had positive perceptions regarding the obstetric care provided by the institution: presence of a companion, satisfaction with the health team, normal birth without medical interventions, recognition of normal birth as the best birth. Thus, it is concluded that the quality of the service at the unit presented as the stage for the interviews shows dynamic access, assistance aimed at care with information and conduct and the encouragement of safe practices for maternal and child health.

Evaluation of natural radioactivity and radiological hazards in water sample of Tounsa Sharif, South Punjab, Pakistan

Radioactive material, especially Uranium, is very dangerous for human beings, creatures, and plants. It has been documented that the groundwater of the Dera Ghazi Khan Division in Punjab is contaminated with 238U. In this communication, the groundwater of the Tehsil Taunsa located at Indus River has been investigated. 144 samples of drinking water were collected from 48 villages/towns located in the area of about 500 km2 of the city. The samples were collected in the month of June, August and November, to concentrate on the temperature impact over the Uranium concentration. All samples were analyzed for 238U concentration using a fluorometric technique. The fluorometric technique was applied after pre-treatment of the sample. The analysis of the result revealed that groundwater obtained from this region contains a high value of 238U contents. Among the 48 trials, 26 samples were found below the permissible limit, while the remaining samples contained 238U contents above the permissible level. The sample collected from areas like, Qarim Wala, Jhoke Jamki, Basti peer, Tibi Qaisrani, Pehar Adda & Malana contained even up to the alarming level (30 μg l−1 to 54 μg l−1). In addition, it was observed that the sampling period had a significant effect on the contents, which were most prominent in June. This area being almost annually flooded by water from Rodh Kohi, who originated from Koh-e-Suleiman, may lead to such a high concentration of 238U. The additional reason could be the topographical and geological structure of the earth from which the samples were collected.

A Prospective Study On Internet Addiction In Young Adults

Internet addiction has become an important issue in young population who are at risk of the adverse effects of internet addiction due to their high levels of internet use for social networking, gaming, streaming, and other online activities. Knowing the factors responsible for the development of internet Addiction can be useful for both prevention and treatment as well as targeted intervention for this type of addiction. This study was conducted to determine prevalence of Internet addiction among young population, its associated factors and analysing the possible differences related to gender. This cross-sectional study was conducted on young adults of 18-24 years age studying at Nims,university ,Jaipur, Rajasthan during the months of October and November 2023 . Predefined questionnaire of young etal was used to capture the data pertaining to internet addiction among the study population. A total of 141participants between 18years and 34 years of both genders were selected (247 males and 207 females) for the study. In the present study among the 24 participants, 67% were females and 33% were males. Overall internet addiction including severe and moderate degree was more than 50% which was higher than previous studies. Impact of internet addiction was observed in form of Reduced productivity at work, loss of sleep and depression/mood swings etc

Reproductive biology of Capparis decidua (Kair): A potential underutilized multipurpose plant of arid and semi arid region

Foliation and flowering of Capparis decidua occurs three times a year i.e. from January to November months. Flowers are bracteate, pedicellate, complete, hermaphrodite, zygomorphic, hypogynous with slender pedicel, usually light red, scarlet red and yellow in colour. Anthesis was maximum between 4.00 p.m. to 8.00 PM and 6.00 to 10.00 AM. Pollen grains are prolate, tricolporate, trilobed, with costae, colpal membrane sparsely granulated. Anther dehiscence takes place after 20–30 minutes of anthesis at 6.00 to 8.00 PM by the time the flowers starts antehsizing, the anthers are almost mature. The viability of pollen grains ranges from 38–52%, and starts decreasing in the stored pollen. The percentage fruit set decreases with the collection time of the pollen grains and plant type. According to visual observation stigmatic surface change in the appearance i.e. green coloured stigma was considered receptive while dull and brown was accounted non-receptive. Pollen germination in-vivo showed 80 per cent stigma receptive and 90 percent of fruit set in the flowers pollinated on the time of anthesis. Pollen grains per anther were ranging from 331–369, fully developed and mature anthers differing significantly among the plant types. The mean number of pollen grains per ovule was 4309 thus the pollen-ovule ratio was 431:1. There is 17–23% fruit set observed under self pollination (autogamy and geitonogamy) and 52–72% as a result of cross pollination. The cross pollinated nature of C. decidua is due to entomophilic nature of flowers, insect visitors which play the main role of pollination are from Apidae and Papilionidae.

Blood smears examination and prevalence of malaria in Addis Zemen Town, Northwest Ethiopia (2013–2021): a retrospective study

IntroductionIn Ethiopia, malaria is one of the major public health and socioeconomic problems, though tremendous efforts have been made. Currently, the country has a plan to eliminate malaria by 2030. To achieve this plan, epidemiological studies associated with malaria prevalence with gender, age groups, species types, and seasons are essential. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of malaria from 2013 to 2021 in Addis Zemen town, Northwest Ethiopia.MethodsA retrospective study was conducted at assess the trend of malaria prevalence over the last nine years using recorded blood smear reports in the laboratory logbook from governmental health institutions. Trends in malaria cases and the proportion of genders, age groups, species, and seasons over time were compared. The data were analyzed using the SPSS-23 software package.ResultsThe overall malaria prevalence between 2013 and 2021 was 10.4%. From all confirmed cases, the minimum and maximum prevalence of malaria cases were recorded in 2018 (2%) and 2016 (33.2%) years, respectively. The infectious rate of males (59.3%) was significantly higher than that of females (40.7%) (p < 0.0001). In all survey periods, all age groups were infected by malaria parasites; the majority of the cases were between 15 and 45 years (57%) older than others. Statistically, a greater proportion of P. falciparum (80.1%) was recorded than P. vivax (18.5%) (p < 0.0001). Malaria cases were occurring throughout each month. The relative highest peaks of total malaria cases were observed during the months of September, October, and November. Seasonally, the highest infection rate was observed during spring (40.20%) compared to other seasons.ConclusionsIn conclusion, the study revealed that malaria transmission remained high, which affected males more than females and potentially reproductive ages. Two of the most important Plasmodium species were identified and found during all reviewed months and years, though P. falciparum was the most prevalent. Hence, the problem can be alleviated by using season-based long-lasting insecticide treated nets, regularly overseeing ongoing irrigation activity, overseeing the reduction of the water level of the Sheni River, health education, and providing immediate patient treatment.

Towards sustainable precipitation management in Madurai Town Planning Area (India)

This study aimed to look for efficient development strategies towards achieving sustainable precipitation management in the Madurai Town Planning Area (MTPA) in India. In the MTPA, precipitation is the predominant source of freshwater for agricultural and domestic uses in addition to water received through conventional systems. The average annual precipitation in the region is ~ 816 mm with standard deviation of 233 mm. The regression analysis showed that annual precipitation is following a decreasing trend and will be about 716 mm by 2030. The Precipitation Concentration Index (PCI) values ranging from 18 to 20 represented strong irregularities and seasonality in annual precipitation over the study area. March, July, September, and November months contributed 2.5, 6.19, 14, and 16% to annual precipitation, respectively, and all showed decreasing trends over time. Only 20% of Northeast monsoon was active over the past 44 years (1976–2019), resulting in a 15% probability of flood and drought occurrences throughout the MTPA. The long-term (1976–2019) average value of annual precipitation days was about 42. The Concentration Index (CI) showed that 60–70% of precipitation was received within 25% of precipitable days. Daily precipitation class of moderate (7.5–34 mm) and rather heavy (34–64 mm) ranges were the dominant types of precipitation, contributing 46% and 26% to total annual precipitation, respectively. Except for October, the monthly precipitation received was deficit to meet the irrigation water demand in the MTPA. However, development of precipitation harvesting systems can annually preserve about 27 Mm3 freshwater in the urban space of the MTPA.

The process of harnessing solar power through the Ashwamedha Yagya.

The first Ashwamedha Yagya under the Dev Sanskriti Digvijay Abhiyan of the All World Gayatri Family took place in Jaipur, Rajasthan from November 7th to 10th, 1992. During the same period, the entire issue of the Akhand Jyoti magazine for the month of November 1992 was dedicated to the 'Ashwamedha Yagya'. This special edition is in itself a treatise, elucidating the true purpose and objective of the Ashwamedha based on scriptures, while resolving misconceptions from the past ages. Worship of the Sun has been fundamental to Indian culture, with the Gayatri mantra being the chant for the adoration of Surya (the Sun God). Understanding the connection between the Ashwamedha Yagya and Surya-Savitri is essential to grasp the purpose of the Ashwamedha ritual. There is a deep connection between the Ashwamedha process and Gayatri along with the Sun. According to the Ashwamedha section of the Shatapatha Brahmana (13/4/2/6), there is a provision for offering oblations to Savitri after reciting the Gayatri Mahamantra. The oblations offered through the worship of Gayatri Mahamantra fulfill the scientific aspect of the Yagya, purifying the societal consciousness. The scientific process of purifying the unconscious mind of the societal group through the Ashwamedha Yagya is elaborately explained in the November 1992 Akhand Jyoti special edition article titled 'The Process of Harnessing Solar Power through the Ashwamedha Yagya'. Therefore, this article is being reprinted here for the readers of 'Dev Sanskriti: An Interdisciplinary International Journal'.

Nutritional and Medicinal Property of Jaggery: An Overview

Abstract The oldest sweetener jaggery made from sugarcane (Saccharum officinalis) juice. It is a yellowish concentrated form of sugarcane juice which contains nutritional and medicinal properties. The good quality jaggery is golden yellowish in color, texture is hard, sweet taste with low moisture content. About 70% jaggery is made in India by various processes, in month of November to April which is a suitable climate for preparation of jaggery. Today the jaggery is available in three forms solid jaggery, liquid jaggery and granular jaggery of which solid jaggery is broadly used. The liquid jaggery has commercial value and widely used in West Bengal and Maharashtra while the granular jaggery is also most popular in rural diet. Sugarcane jaggery contains highly nutritive value with medicinal values. The jaggery contains vitamins, proteins and minerals which are essential constituents of body. Today the ayurvedic industry prepares therapeutic formulation with jaggery for the treatment of various diseases and disorders. Keywords: Jaggery, Sugar cane, Antioxidant, Cough, Arthritis.

SERO-PREVALENCE OF DENGUE INFECTION FROM GOVERNMENT HOSPITAL, RAJASTHAN DURING 2022

Background: Viral haemorrhagic fevers are becoming increasingly common in the tropics and subtropics. Dengue fever is currently the most important arthropod‑borne viral disease because of its widespread distribution in more than 100 countries and its potential for extensive outbreaks of life‑threatening disease. Material and Methods: This study was a hospital‑based cross‑sectional study conducted in LaboratoryShrr. R.K.J. Hopsital, Dausa, in Rajasthan, India, between January 2022 to December 2022. The present study included all serum specimens received at laboratory of R.K.J. Hopsital, Dausa, from clinically suspected cases of dengue infection, during this duration. Serum samples were received for serological testing from suspected cases of dengue as advised by consultants from various departments in hospital for laboratory confirmation of suspected cases. Laboratory-confirmed dengue cases were defined as suspected dengue cases with positive dengue serology. Result: The present study analyzed the samples of 1880 of suspected patients during year of 2022. and seropositivity rate of 15% (296/1880) was found out of which 10% (67/648) were seropositive for NS1 antigen and 18% (229/1232) were by IgM ELISA test. The present study revealed trend of cases from August to December 2022 peak of cases was reported in month of September and November. Discussion: The resurgence of dengue has been notable in India and dengue epidemics have been frequently reported in the country both from urban and rural regions. Recent analysis of the past two decades highlighted that, in India, transmission pattern of dengue has changed and widened with shift in peak post-monsoon shifting toward November from October in the recent decade from irregular peak of the previous decade. However, the present pattern in shift of transmission is clear that dengue cannot be considered as a seasonal disease. Conclusions: An alarming rate of increasing emerging and reemerging trends of these arboviral infections are noted in this part of Rajasthan. Hence, the need to focus on proper surveillance, and implementation of prevention and control measure in the country are of utmost priority. Presently, there are no licensed vaccines or antivirals available however, India has initiated several efforts in this direction including traditional medicines. The outcome of this study will help in focusing and improvement of existing surveillance systems and vector control tools, as well as on the development of suitable antiviral agents and formulating candidate vaccine.

Designing of multi-Epitope vaccine against spike glycoprotein of SARS-CoV-2 using immunoinformatics approach

BackgroundCOVID-19 caused by SARS-CoV-2 (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome) has created an alarming situation worldwide. The surface (S) glycoprotein of novel coronavirus, encoded by the genome of SARS-CoV-2, plays an role in attachment, fusion as well as entry into the host cell. The spike glycoprotein plays vital role in not only infection but pathogenesis and adaptive immunity, and, therefore, the S glycoprotein is considered as the main target for the development of effective and durable vaccine against SARS-CoV-2. Present study aims to compare the SARS-CoV-2 spike sequence obtained from first Wuhan virus with those of Asian SARS-CoV-2 isolates. ResultA total of 1165 mutations from 657 sequences of Asia submitted in the month of November 2020 to February 2021 were detected. Further, secondary structure prediction followed by protein modeling analysis was performed which revealed, these mutations, considerably altered the stability of Spike protein. Additionally, Physiochemical properties, toxicity, allergenicity and stability of spike glycoprotein were estimated to demonstrate the specificity of the epitope candidates. Subsequently, we identified a total of 34B-cell and 10 T-cell immune epitopes. Among the predicted epitopes, 26 B-cell and 9T-cell epitopes showed non-allergenic, non-toxic and highly antigenic properties. ConclusionTaken together, our study showed spike glycoprotein of SARS-CoV-2 can be a potentially good candidate for the development of vaccine to curb SARS-CoV-2 infections.

Seroprevalence of anti-SARS-CoV-2 in patients with hepatitis B and C: a pre-vaccination study

The serological markers for the diagnosis of COVID-19 plays an important role in the epidemiological investigation of the pandemic. This study aims to assess the prevalence of anti-SARS-CoV-2 in hepatitis B and C patients in a pre-vaccination of COVID-19 period. Between March 2020 and January 2021, 199 serum samples from individuals with HBsAg/HBV DNA or anti-HCV/HCV RNA positivity were tested for antibodies (IgM and IgG) against SARS-CoV-2 using Electrochemiluminescent Immunoassay (ECLIA). Among these, 50.3 % (100/199) tested positive for hepatitis C virus infection and 49.7 % (99/199) for hepatitis B virus, confirmed through molecular and serological diagnosis. The anti-SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence was 24.1 % (48/199) in this population, with 23.23 % (23/99) hepatitis B and 25 % (25/100) hepatitis C patients tested positive for anti-SARS-CoV-2. The higher seroprevalence of anti-SARS-CoV-2 (16.58 %, 33/199) was detected among those over-40 years of age and the month of November 2020 had the highest number of detections 9 % (18/199) with the majority living in impoverished and neglected neighborhoods in the city of Rio de Janeiro. We found a high prevalence of anti-SARS-CoV-2 in patients with viral hepatitis before COVID-19 vaccination. This demonstrates the high exposure of this population during the period of social isolation.

Insights into the cumulative effect of Colletotrichum gloeosporioides and Fusarium acutatum causing anthracnose-twister disease complex of onion

Colletotrichum is an important plant pathogenic fungi that causes anthracnose/-twister disease in onion. This disease was prevalent in the monsoon season from August to November months and the symptoms were observed in most of the fields. This study aimed to investigate the pathogenicity and cumulative effect, if any of Colletotrichum gloeosporioides and Fusarium acutatum. The pot experiment was laid out to identify the cause responsible for inciting anthracnose-twister disease, whether the Colletotrichum or Fusarium or both, or the interaction of pathogens and GA3. The results of the pathogenicity test confirmed that C. gloeosporioides and F. acutatum are both pathogenic. C. gloeosporioides caused twisting symptoms independently, while F.acutatum independently caused only neck elongation. The independent application of GA3 did not produce any symptoms, however, increased the plant height. The combined treatment of C. gloeosporioides and F. acutatum caused twisting, which enhanced upon interaction with GA3 application giving synergistic effect. The acervuli were found in lesions infected with C. gloeosporioides after 8 days of inoculation on the neck and leaf blades. Symptoms were not observed in untreated control plants. Koch's postulates were confirmed by reisolating the same pathogens from the infected plants.

Demographic and clinical features of dengue fever infection in Pakistan: a cross-sectional epidemiological study

BackgroundDengue fever caused by dengue virus is a tropical disease and is among the deadliest vector-borne diseases. The humid and hot summers of Pakistan support the probation of the vectors responsible for the transmission of viral and other parasitic diseases.MethodologyA retrospective study, from 2012- 2019, of dengue infected individuals from the Punjab province of Pakistan was carried out to analyze epidemiology, clinical and laboratory findings of subjects with dengue virus infection. Data was derived from National Institute of Health (NIH) followed by Dengue control program of Pakistan, covering the incidence rate in 36 districts of Punjab and Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) respectively. Patients data including the presence of dengue specific antigen or/and antibodies such as NS1 and IgG/IgM were observed. The study also included the analysis of demographic data, geographic data, and the month-wise distribution of dengue cases to examine seasonal trends.ResultsWe analyzed 25,682 dengue infected individuals. The statistical analysis revealed a significant association between genders in which male population was more affected by dengue than females. It was also noted that the middle age group was the most affected age group while the highest number of cases were reported in October. Rawalpindi and Lahore were the most affected cities in Punjab province while Islamabad represented the highest number of cases during the recent outbreak in 2019. The IgM and IgG antibodies were highly prevalent among the infected patients.ConclusionDengue is endemic in Pakistan, circulating throughout the year. Highest number of cases were observed in the month of October, September and November respectively. Association between climate change and vector-borne diseases need to be investigated in Pakistan as they significantly influence the timing and intensity of dengue and other disease outbreaks. Further exploration of hematological parameters is required to better diagnose and treat the disease. For the effective control of dengue outbreaks, awareness campaigns on sewage management and vector control along with social factors are strongly recommended for better control and eradication of the disease.

Clustered Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Cases: Accidental Poisoning In A Vehicle

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a product of combustion of organic matter in the presence of inadequate supply of oxygen. Common sources are burning fuel, engine exhaust, burning of animal dung, heater emissions and gas geyser. It is a toxic, clear, colorless and tasteless gas. The clinical presentation runs a spectrum, ranging from headache and dizziness to coma and death. Here we report three cases that presented to us in the month of November 2023 with history, sign &amp; symptoms suggestive of CO poisoning. Bangladesh Crit Care J March 2024; 12 (1): 72-74

Evolving Epidemiology of Pediatric Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) Cases Around COVID-19 Pandemic: Impact and Clinical Insights, Retrospective Cohort Study

BackgroundThe burden of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) in high-risk pediatric patients remains unclear. Therefore, this study aims to characterize pediatric RSV cases from January 2019 to December 2022 and assess the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on RSV burden and RSV-related outcomes. In addition, examining factors influencing RSV-related hospitalization.MethodsThis is a retrospective study that included pediatric patients (aged 14 and below) who presented at King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre (KFSHRC) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia with RSV infection identified using real-time reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction assays. Statistical analyses were performed using STATA.ResultsA total of 885 RSV cases were reported; (56.05%) were males and (43.95%) were females with a median age of 24 months [interquartile range (IQR): 11–60]. 534 (60.34%) required hospitalization. As for RSV seasonality, there was a significant increase in RSV prevalence following the COVID-19 pandemic, escalating from 205 cases in 2019 to 425 cases in 2022. The increase in 2022 was evident in January and persisted from September to December, reaching its peak during the months of October (20.70% − 88 cases) and November (32.00% − 136 cases). About (27.12%) of RSV infected children were medically free patients. Symptomatic patients exhibited various clinical manifestations, with ventilation necessary in (13.11%) of cases. Further analysis revealed significant changes in RSV-related outcomes post-COVID-19, including a decrease in hospitalization rates, an increase in medically free patients, and a lower need for ventilation (p < 0.05). Notably, a significant proportion of RSV admissions occurred within the first 6 months of life, with (77.69%) in the age group of 0 to 5 months. In addition, previous RSV infection, prematurity, low birth weight, renal disease, congenital heart disease, endocrine/metabolic disease, neuro/neuromuscular diseases, and genetic disorders were positively associated with hospitalization (P < 0.05). Interestingly, asthma and bone marrow transplantation were negatively associated with hospitalization (P < 0.05). The mortality rate in this study is (2.37%) (21/885).ConclusionThis study provides a comprehensive understanding of the demographic and clinical factors influencing RSV outcomes, highlighting the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and shedding light on potential risk factors for RSV-related hospitalization. The highest prevalence of RSV during (September to January), aligning with global patterns and emphasizing the importance of timing in preventive strategies.

Population aspects of Crassostrea sp. in a protected mangrove estuary: perspectives for artisanal fishing management

ABSTRACT The mangrove oyster (Crassostrea) is one of the most common bivalves found on the Brazilian coast, widely used in artisanal fisheries. Oysters are dioecious with external reproduction, typically found in estuarine environments. The present study aimed to identify the population aspects of Crassostrea in different fishing locations in northeastern Brazil. The study area was the Acaú-Goiana Extractive Reserve, a protected area focused on the development of artisanal fisheries. Oysters were collected during low tide at three sampling points, where their removal from mangrove roots was carried out, during May, July, September, November 2021, and January and March 2022. In the laboratory, biometric measurements were conducted, and for the months of May and November 2021 histological preparations to study the reproductive cells. Biometric measurements were significantly higher in the dry season at all sampling points. The sex ratio was M = 0.38, F = 0.62, for May, and M = 0.30, F = 0.69, for November. The biometric and reproductive data obtained can support the development of management strategies, including a rotation plan between collection sites and the establishment of a minimum size for fishing. Here we recommend a minimum size of 20 mm shell length (SL) or larger for fishing.