Population In Countries Research Articles

Prevalence, trends, and distribution of hepatitis C virus among the general population in sub-Saharan Africa: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Although the evidence is uncertain, existing estimates for hepatitis C virus (HCV) in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) indicate a high burden. We estimated HCV seroprevalence and viraemic prevalence among the general population in SSA. We searched Medline, Embase, Web of Science, APA PsycINFO, and World Health Organization Africa Index Medicus for community-based studies. Study quality was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal tool, and heterogeneity using the index of heterogeneity (I2). Two approaches were deployed. First, we used random-effects meta-analysis to pool prevalence. Second, to derive representative estimates, we weighted each country's HCV seroprevalence using 2021 United Nations country population sizes. We synthesized 130 studies. Overall, SSA HCV seroprevalence from the random-effects model was 4.17% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 3.71-4.66, I2 = 99.30%). There were no differences between males (4.31%) and females (4.03%). Seroprevalence was 2.25%, 3.31%, and 16.23% for ages ≤20, 21-64, and ≥65 years, respectively, and was higher in rural (6.63%) versus urban (2.93%). There was indication of decrement overtime from 5.74% to 4.35% to 3.03% in the years 1984-2000, 2001-2014, and 2015-2023, respectively. The weighted overall SSA HCV seroprevalence was estimated to be 2.30% (95% CI: 1.59-3.00) with regional variation: Africa-Southern (.79%), Africa-Central (1.47%), Africa-Eastern (2.71%), and Africa-Western (2.88%). HCV viremia among HCV seropositives was 54.77% (95% CI: 47.80-61.66). HCV seroprevalence in SSA remains high. Populations aged ≥65 years, rural communities, Africa-Western, and some countries in Africa-Central and Africa-Eastern appear disproportionately affected. These results underline the need for governmental commitment to achieve the 2030 global HCV elimination targets.

A - 21 The Association between Tau Pathology and Cognitive Impairment in Alzheimer’s Disease in the Democratic Republic of Congo

Abstract Objective Previous studies in Western countries have shown that tau accumulation is more closely connected with cognitive decline in Alzheimer’s disease (ad). This association has not yet been investigated in the Sub-Saharan African countries/Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). We investigated the association between phosphorylated tau (p-Tau) level and cognitive performance of older adults from the DRC. Method Blood and neuropsychological tests were collected on 80 Congolese older adults with suspected ad. Participants were classified according to the biomarkers of their ATN profiles with positive “A” values based on β-amyloid <0.061 and “T” values based on p-Tau 181 < 4.50, as well as APOEε4 using Simoa assays. An analysis of covariance examined the differences in memory performance for each pathological group, controlling for age, education, gender, and APOEε4 status. Results A-T- (n = 36) consisted of age (M = 71.3, SD = 7.44), gender (48.6% female), education level (M = 9.80, SD = 5.44), and APOEε4 (38.2%). A + T- (n = 29) consisted of age (M = 73.1, SD = 7.75), gender (62.1% female), education level (M = 7.21, SD = 5.92), and APOEε4 (41.4%). A + T+ (n = 15) consisted of age (M = 78.1, SD = 4.62), gender (60.0% female), education level (M = 6.60, SD = 3.46), and APOEε4 (93.3%). Overall, there were significant effects of memory performances on A-T- participants: verbal memory immediate (p = 0.0089), delayed (p = 0.00096), and recognition (p = 0.0104); and visual memory delayed (p = 0.00058) and recognition (p = 0.00039). Conclusion Reduced memory performance and p-Tau levels were associated in Congolese adults with and without ad. This study suggests abnormal tau accumulation underlies cognitive deficits in ad and could be used as an early marker of ad pathology for various populations in Sub-Saharan African countries.

Comparison of the Living Conditions of the Immigrant Population in Major European Countries

Comparison of the Living Conditions of the Immigrant Population in Major European Countries

Genomic diversity and population structure of Carniolan honey bee in its native habitat

BackgroundResearch into the genetic diversity of honey bee (Apis melliferaL.) populations has become increasingly significant in recent decades, primarily due to population declines attributed to human activities and climate change. As a species of great importance, breeding programs that leverage understanding of genomic diversity could offer solutions to mitigate these challenges. The objective of this study was to examine the genomic diversity and population structure of Carniolan honey bees (Apis mellifera carnica) using the Illumina SNP chip on a large honey bee sample collected from Central and South-Eastern European countries. The study also aims to offer recommendations for future breeding programs.ResultsOur analysis involved Discriminant Analysis of Principal Components (DAPC), heterozygosity, admixture analysis, fixation indices (FST), Neighbour-Joining tree, gene flow and Isolation-by-distance analysis. DAPC indicated distinct separation between the Carniolan and Italian honey bee (Apis mellifera ligustica) populations, whereas the admixture analysis revealed varying levels of gene flow and genetic admixture within the Carniolan honey bee populations, demonstrating closer relationships between specific geographic regions (confirmed by Isolation-by-distance analysis). Furthermore, the research of heterozygosity, genomic inbreeding, pairwise FST values, and Neighbour-Joining tree provided insights into the patterns of genetic differentiation and similarity among the populations of Carniolan honey bee within its natural habitat. We have observed genetic homogeneity of the Carniolan honey bee population when considered in a broader genetic/geographical context. However, the Carniolan honey bee has sufficient genetic diversity in its geographical home range that needs to be carefully monitored and maintained.ConclusionsThis study provides important insights into the genetic composition, differentiation, and relationships among Carniolan honey bee populations in Central and South-Eastern European countries. The findings are crucial for conservation efforts, breeding programs, and sustainable beekeeping practices. They emphasise the importance of considering genetic factors and population structure in the breeding and management of honey bees. By understanding these genetic relationships, we can develop strategies to preserve genetic diversity, improve breeding outcomes, and ensure the resilience of honey bee populations in the face of environmental changes and challenges. This knowledge can also inform policy makers and stakeholders on best practices to maintain healthy bee populations, which are vital for ecosystem services and agricultural productivity.

Assessment Center Evaluation in Indonesia: An Exploratory Study

Although assessment center practice continues to spread to Asian countries, no published study exists that evaluates the quality of AC within the largest populous country of Indonesia. Therefore, this study aims to determine the quality of assessment center methodology in Indonesia. Then, the result is compared to a prior benchmarking of the BACDi-instrument. The results indicate no differences between Indonesian and German assessment centers' overall development and post-processing quality phases. The difference between Indonesian and German assessment centers was found in conduction quality. The assessment center practice has to consider the context of other aspects that could lead to its methodology improvement in future practice. This study is the first detailed and standardized representation of assessment center methodology quality that adequately explains every phase within the assessment center in Indonesia, and more widely, is discussed.

Challenging exclusion: bringing the human rights to water and sanitation to Europe

ABSTRACT Research and advocacy on water and sanitation in low-income countries often consider the human rights to water and sanitation as the basis for improving access to these essential services. But how often is the spotlight turned on high-income countries? Do the predominantly Global North researchers, advocates, donors and development partners who explore failures to meet the human rights in Accra or Jakarta ever ask if the same rights are realized at home in Berlin, London or Paris? Exclusion and marginalization similar to that faced by various populations in low-income countries are present in the lived experiences of individuals and groups in Europe, including homeless people, Roma communities, incarcerated people and refugees. Yet, the same human rights that are invoked in low-income countries are all too often ignored in Europe. Meanwhile, high-income countries cannot point to insufficient financial resources to justify failures in human rights realization. Against this background, this short communication outlines some of the inequalities in access to water and sanitation that exist and persist in high-income countries through the lens of human rights, and proposes that invoking these human rights can support the ideals of equity and justice contributing to re-imagining universal access to services across Europe.

How Were European GPs/FPs Involved in the COVID-19 Vaccination Campaign? A European Questionnaire Study about the Experiences of the Vaccinations in 2021.

The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has become the greatest public health challenge worldwide. Soon after the appearance of the virus in 2019, intensive efforts to develop vaccines were initiated, and by late 2020, delivery of vaccines for the targeted population as a campaign had started. Collect information from European Union countries regarding how and to what extent were family physicians (FPs)/general practitioners (GPs) involved in the vaccination campaigns in 2021 and how these were organized at the national level. A short questionnaire was distributed through the secretariats of WONCA (World Organization of Family Doctors) Europe and the European Forum for Primary Care (EFPC). In most of the countries, participation of FPs/GPs was compulsory. The vaccination was usually centrally organized by governmental authorities. In the beginning, registration (web-based) of patients was required, mainly at the national level. By the middle of 2021, vaccination on a walk-in basis became available in almost every country for the first immunization as well as for the booster injections. The remunerations of GPs/FPs differed; in some countries, no extra payments were offered. The Pfizer vaccine was used in all countries, while in nine countries, non-European Medicines Agency (EMA)-approved vaccines were also given in primary care settings and at vaccination centers. In some countries, professional homepages helped the GPs. The involvement of primary health care (PHC) providers did not correlate to the vaccination coverage of the entire population of the respective countries. It was the highest in the more developed countries with higher living standards, where participation of GPs was voluntary and appropriate financial incentives were offered to them. The vaccination campaign was a professional and logistic challenge and an excellent performance of PCH providers. Experiences gained could be used in the future to manage similar pandemic challenges.

Determinants of labor market resilience

It is noted that the resilience of the labor market is an important category of social and economic development in conditions of perma­nent shocks and uncertainty. Global challenges, the unpredictability of cyclical fluctuations of the economy, information asymmetry of the mar­ket, the influence of behavioral factors often determine the dynamics and movement vectors of various types of markets, including the labor market, raising the question of strengthening its fundamental foundations and effective func­tioning despite numerical limitations and risks. Hence the need to study all the multifaceted factors and challenges to the functioning of the labor market and to substantiate on this basis the paradigm of resilience of the labor market in conditions of systemic uncertainty. It is substan­tiated that the determinants of the labor market resilience are cyclical and struc­tural factors that determine the ability of the labor market to avoid, withstand or recover from shock effects. Significant demographic changes in the number, gender-age composition of the population, changes in technological patterns, and introduc­tion of technological innovations, often repeated cyclical economic downturns; military and poli­tical conflicts change the sphere of employment of the population in various countries of the world and demonstrate the general internal sensitivity of the labor market to shock effects. It is emphasized that the task of the state and business is to ensure macroeconomic stability, develop human capital, social protec­tion of the population, increase the level of employment, stable and predictable economic growth, and promote the flexibility of the labor market through the development of various forms of employment, such as remote or part-time. As a result, a favorable market environ­ment will serve as an indicator of the develop­ment of innovations, the successful functioning of small and medium-sized enterprises, which will form innovative workplaces in the future and increase the resilience of the labor market as a whole

Estimating the number of Canadians suffering from fecal incontinence using pooled prevalence data from meta-analysis

Background and aimFecal incontinence (FI) is defined as the unintended loss of solid or liquid stool. FI adversely affects the patient’s quality of life. However, due to stigma, lack of awareness, and underdiagnosis, there is a notable gap in the knowledge regarding its prevalence. This study aimed to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis of published literature reporting on FI prevalence and estimate the number of people afflicted by FI.MethodsA systematic review was conducted following the PRISMA 2020 guidelines, using the Embase, MEDLINE, CINHAL, and PubMed databases to identify relevant publications in the English language. Two reviewers independently screened the articles and extracted data. The reference sections and content of the review papers were also evaluated. Thirty-two articles were selected and included. A meta-analysis of proportions was performed using RStudio software. A sub-analysis was conducted to account for the variation between sample population age groups to minimize heterogeneity. The pooled prevalence was extrapolated to the Canadian population and a sample of ten densely populated countries to estimate the number of people affected by FI.ResultsThe Mean pooled FI prevalence in men and women was 7% (95% CI: 6-9%) and 10% (95% CI: 8-12%), respectively. The sub-analysis mean pooled prevalence of FI in men and women was 8% (95% CI: 6-10%) and 10% (95% CI: 8-12%), respectively. The authors estimate that between 1 and 1.5 million Canadians and 320 to 500 million people in the ten most populous countries suffer from FI.ConclusionFecal incontinence is a prevalent underdiagnosed condition requiring appropriate and timely treatment to improve a patient’s quality of life.

Modeling Population Dynamics in the Indian Context: A Differential Difference Equation Approach

The study of population dynamics is of paramount importance in comprehending the evolving demographics and socioeconomic structure of a country. The task of modelling population dynamics in the Indian context poses distinct challenges and opportunities owing to the extensive and heterogeneous nature of the country's population. This research paper utilises a differential difference equation (DDE) methodology to comprehensively model population dynamics in India. The study seeks to enhance comprehension of population dynamics by considering various factors, including birth rates, death rates, migration patterns, and seasonal variations. The study employs Delay Differential Equations (DDEs) as a mathematical framework to effectively model the dynamic characteristics of population systems. These equations account for time delays, historical events, and discrete factors that play a significant role in shaping population dynamics, whether it be growth or decline. Numerical techniques, such as Euler's method and the Runge-Kutta method, are utilised in order to solve Delay Differential Equation (DDE) models and effectively simulate the dynamics of populations over a given time period. The evaluation of each method involves a comparative analysis of its accuracy, smoothness, convergence properties, and computational efficiency. The research findings presented in this study enhance our comprehension of population dynamics in India and offer significant insights that can be utilised by policymakers, urban planners, and researchers in the fields of demography, public health, and social sciences. The results have the potential to provide valuable insights for evidence-based decision-making and the development of effective policies aimed at addressing the various challenges and opportunities related to population dynamics in the Indian context.

Prevalence of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and Its Associated Risk Factors among Medical Students in Two Countries.

PCOS, a common hormonal disorder in women of reproductive age, affects fertility and increases the risks of other diseases. Early detection, risk factor assessment, and intervention are crucial to prevent long-term complications. This study was conducted using a pre-validated questionnaire at two medical colleges in the UAE and Oman. The first study (UAE) results are already published. Here, we present the findings of the second study (Oman) and compare them. The prevalence of PCOS was 4.6% (n = 7) in Oman and 27.6% (n = 69) in the UAE using the NIH criteria. The most common symptoms were irregular periods, acne, and thinning of hair. Students showed acne as the most prevalent symptom of clinical hyperandrogenism. Omani students showed significantly more acne [70.1% (n = 108) vs. 41.6% (n = 104)], while Emirati students showed a higher prevalence of hirsutism [32% (n = 80) vs. 23.3% (n = 36)]. A higher number of students had irregular periods 30.8% (77/150) in the UAE, although the difference was not statistically significant. The prevalence of PCOS was significantly higher in Emirati medical students than in Omani students (p < 0.05). The prevalence was also lower among medical students in Oman compared to an unselected population, reported by a study that included all consecutive women between 12 and 45 years of age attending a hospital. An increased trend in unhealthy lifestyle practices was observed in the recent study. Obesity was a strong predictor of PCOS symptoms across the populations in both countries (p < 0.05). The prevalence of PCOS and clinical signs of hyperandrogenism vary significantly between countries in the MENA region. There is a need to identify specific risk factors associated with PCOS in different populations, explore the genetic basis, and undertake collaborative efforts among healthcare professionals from various disciplines to raise awareness about PCOS and its associated risks.

Health Care Surveillance Using Machine Learning and Data Analytics

Any country's healthy population are a true asset. Both developed and developing nations are spending enormous sums of money to strengthen their "healthcare systems" and the required "health infrastructure." Globally, only few countries have a proactive approach to healthcare. The pandemic that has been going on recently has taught countries hard lessons about how important it is to have strong healthcare systems. The formulation of effective health policies and initiatives depends heavily on studies on Public Health Surveillance (PHS) and the conclusions that follow. This task has become clearer with the introduction of modern computing techniques and technology. Humanity has always been saved by technology when it is applied correctly. In this context, the most promising machine learning techniques are applied in this work. An empirical investigation of RBFN classifiers is presented in this paper. A variety of performance criteria, including recall, f-score, accuracy, precision, and False Positive Rate (FPR), are used to evaluate the efficacy of the recommended procedures. The RBFN approach has the highest accuracy and the least amount of time complexity in identifying health diseases.

The politics of knowledge in black carbon mitigation: Policy entrepreneurship of Finnish actors and the Climate and Clean Air Coalition

Mitigation of black carbon (BC) is a potent short-term measure for climate and environmental policy due to the short lifetime of BC particles in the atmosphere. Fewer BC emissions would decelerate warming especially in the Arctic and bring significant co-benefits particularly in populous countries owing to BC’s negative public health, food security and socio-economic effects. However, scientific knowledge on BC remains uncertain regarding the measurement, monitoring and precise effects of BC while the respective global policy framework is fragmented. To address this situation, we scrutinize the science/policy nexus in BC mitigation on the regional level where some promising openings exist. For this end, our new analytical framework focuses on policy entrepreneurs, their interests and cognitive frames, and the structural environment. Utilising content analysis of expert interviews and document data, three cases are covered with significant policy entrepreneurship on BC. First, we examine Finland ‘s high-profile BC initiative, finding it to frame BC pollution as an Arctic climate threat. Second, Finland’s research, development and innovation cluster, which has substantial expertise on air pollution, frames BC as a public health hazard, and scopes prospects for policy frameworks helping to open markets for mitigation technologies and solutions. Third, the Climate and Clean Air Coalition approaches BC with a wide multipollutant frame, driven by broad socio-economic and developmental interests. The Finnish initiative’s potential is found to suffer from insufficient coordination with the RDI cluster. Both Finland’s BC specific and the CCAC’s wider multipollutant frame can in different ways contribute to abatement.

P211 PRESCRIPTION AND DISPENSING DURATION OF MEDICINES FOR CHRONIC CONDITIONS: A REVIEW OF INTERNATIONAL POLICIES AND EVIDENCE TO INFORM THE AUSTRALIAN SETTING

Objective: To summarize the current legislative and regulatory framework in Australia and abroad, as well as evidence on the potential impact that dispensed quantity and prescription durations may have on patient outcomes and costs. Methods: We searched the PubMed database for peer-reviewed articles using the search terms “prescription duration”[title], “*duration prescriptions”[title], “prescription length”[title], “prescription period”[title], “extended prescription”[title], “repeat prescription”[title], “repeat prescribing”[title], and “dispensing duration”[title]. In addition, for a selection of countries, we also searched for and asked national health care authorities or local experts via e-mail regarding dispensing and prescription duration limitations based on legislation, health service guidelines, and subsidy program regulations. To achieve a representative sample, we included the world's 5 most populous countries, as well as the most populous country from each continent. We defined “prescription duration” as the entire period of treatment, based on the quantity of medication, for which a healthcare provider may prescribe a medication, and “dispensing duration” as the period of treatment for which a pharmacist may dispense the medication at a single time point. Results: In 31 countries, the most common limitation for dispensing durations were either 30, 60 or 90 days, and for prescription durations either 3, 6 or 12 months. Evidence on the impact of dispensing and prescription durations is limited in quality, but suggests that longer dispensing durations are less costly to the patient (and funder) and improve adherence compared with shorter dispensing durations. There is not enough evidence to draw any conclusions regarding the effects on medicines supplies or health outcomes. To understand the full effects of different prescription and dispensing durations, and to improve the quality of evidence of what previous studies have thus far suggested, randomized controlled trials are needed. Conclusions: Prescription and dispensing durations vary widely between countries, but the effects of such limitations are largely unknown. More rigorous research is needed to identify the ideal prescription duration by also addressing the impact it has on other aspects such as health outcomes, medicine waste, savings to the health system and loss of working hours.

A Review on Financial Literacy for Farmer-educate to Empower

The volume of farming community in the world ranges upto 30% [1]. India is a significant global contributor in the agriculture industry. Agriculture and allied sectors are the main source of livelihood to about 55% of India’s population. Of the country's population engaged in agriculture and related sectors, 69% live in rural areas, with the majority of these people being farmers [2]. Although, India is having top standings in terms of highest milk production, livestock population etc., but on the ground reality farmers face many constraints hindering the sustainability in production and productivity of agriculture sector. Among several constraints exist, financial literacy poses to be one of the major constraints hindering farmers growth. Financial inclusion and, eventually, financial stability were seen as much aided by financial literacy in India. Among all farming households, about 27-37% are financially literate and have access to official credit sources [3]. Recognizing the importance of agriculture and allied sector in India’s development, the Government, Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and many financial research institutes in collaboration with farmer-oriented universities like agriculture, veterinary and allied universities have played an important role for catering to the increasing awareness on financial literacy and access to credit services among farmers as there exist visible lacunae in achieving improved farmers economy [4]. The financial literacy was found to have direct impact on socio-economic factors and hence protocols containing suitable delivery services that addressing financial concepts results in producing beneficial effect and long-term sustainability on farming communities [5].

Analysis of Influencer Marketing Strategies in the Indonesian Beauty Industry and Its Impacts Consumer’s Buying Decision

Brands must constantly update their marketing strategies to keep up with rapidly changing technology, and Indonesia, one of the world's most populated countries, is no exception. This research aims to analyze the influencer marketing strategies used by beauty brands in Indonesia and their impact on consumer behavior. By collecting qualitative data through an online survey of 157 people, the study examines the effectiveness of different influencer tactics. It covers topics such as the legal framework for influencers, the widespread use of social media and influencer marketing in Indonesia's beauty industry, and how various promotional methods resonate with consumers. The findings offer valuable insights and guidance for beauty brands looking to enhance their influencer marketing strategies and build stronger connections with Indonesian consumers. The survey results indicate that influencer marketing positively affects buying decisions, as influencers help build brand trust and provide useful product information, shaping beauty trends and purchasing habits.

Research on Social Stratification in Brazil

ABSTRACTBrazil, as the most unequal and populous country in Latin America, demands a closer examination of its patterns and trends of social stratification. With an emphasis on recent contributions, the paper reviews the literature on four major areas of stratification research: race relations and inequality, educational stratification, intergenerational mobility, and income inequality. The literature on racial stratification focuses on the following subjects: racial classification, discrimination, marital selectivity, educational stratification, and intergenerational mobility. In addition, educational stratification literature concerning trends and patterns is reviewed with special attention to studies advanced by sociologists of social stratification. Intergenerational mobility studies are also presented and discussed. Finally, studies on income and wealth inequality are reviewed. In all these areas the contribution of sociologists is highlighted, and trends and patterns of stratification are presented.

Trends and risk indicators for high fertility among Nigerian female youth aged 15–29 years: A pooled data analysis

IntroductionNigeria's age-specific fertility rates are highest among the country's youth population, yet little is known about the factors that influence female youth fertility in Nigeria. This study examined fertility trends and risk factors associated with high fertility among Nigerian female youth aged 15 to 29. MethodsWe examined a pooled data from four rounds of the Nigeria Demographic and Health Surveys (conducted in 2003, 2008, 2013, and 2018). Of the data, 62,713 female youth were extracted for this study. Descriptive statistics and multinomial logistic regression were employed. ResultsThe results show that 21.5 % of the sample had 3 or more children. Between 2003 and 2018, there was a drop of only 28 live births per 1000 women among the youth. Female youth with less than a secondary education were twice as likely to have 1–2 children (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 1.54, 95 % confidence interval [CI] = 1.43–1.66) and three times as likely to have 3 or more children (aOR = 3.32, 95 % CI = 3.03–3.64) compared to those with a secondary education or higher. Unmarried female youth were 95 % less likely to have 1–2 children and 98 % less likely to have 3 or more children. Additionally, female youth from the lowest-income families were twice as likely to have 1–2 children (aOR = 2.06, 95 % CI = 1.84–1.84) and four times as likely to have 3 or more children (aOR = 3.50, 95 % CI = 3.03–4.05) compared to those from the highest-income families. ConclusionTo control high fertility, significant improvement in education, employment, ending early marriage, poverty and unfavorable pronatalist cultural norms, are required.

Add-on homeopathic treatment to institutional management protocol in children suffering from acute encephalitis syndrome: A retrospective comparative cohort study

Background and objectives: Acute encephalitis syndrome is a health burden to a populous country like India. It is characterized by a sudden onset of fever, altered sensorium with or without seizures, irritability, abnormal behaviour, or unconsciousness. This study aims to augment further evidence on the effects of add-on homeopathic treatment in reducing mortality and morbidity in children. Methods: This comparative retrospective study included children hospitalized with acute encephalitis syndrome between July 2016 to December 2016. We compared the parameters of children for whom decisions on Glasgow Outcome scale and Liverpool outcome score aided by add-on homeopathy against those of children from the same year when the add-on homeopathy was not used. All the children were on conventional supportive care and treatment tailored to each child. We also counted the days until the resumption of oral feeding and the length of hospital stay. Results: Ordinal regression analysis on analyses on 622 children (IH +CSC=329; IMP only=293) was done. Odds of a shift towards increased recovery were superior in the homeopathy-added group than in the IMP group without adjustment (crude OR 2·30, 95% CI 1·66 to 3·20; p=0·0001) and with adjustment (adjusted OR 3.38, 95% CI 2·38 to 4.81; p=0·0001). There was 14.8% less mortality and 17.4% more recovery in the add-on homeopathy group compared to CSC alone. Individualized homeopathic remedies commonly used were: Belladonna (n =238), Stramonium (n =17), Opium (n = 14), Sulphur (n=11) and Hyoscyamus niger (n = 7). Conclusion : This retrospective cohort study advocates for add-on homoeopathy in children suffering acute encephalitis which can produce notable improvements in terms of mortality and morbidity. Further studies in different settings are warranted.

Do rivers get sufficient sleep—A global analysis of light pollution in rivers

Light pollution has become an increasingly prevalent environmental concern associated with urbanization. Rivers are more exposed to light pollution worldwide without sufficient sleep, which has significant adverse effects on riparian ecosystems. However, there is still a scarcity of quantification regarding the spatiotemporal variations of river light pollution (RLP) at the global scale. In this study, we proposed a light pollution index (LPI) and calculated the annual LPIs of 12,530 rivers worldwide from 2000 to 2022. The result shows that global RLP has increased rapidly, especially after 2010. Globally, the centroid of gravity of RLP has been shifting eastward annually, with a gradual southeastward trend since 2010. RLP in the world's 25 large populous countries was mainly classified into three types. This study underscores the significance of RLP that requires further research and effective communication to develop sustainable lighting practices and policies aimed at preserving riverscapes and their biodiversity.