World Population Research Articles

Innovative approaches to harnessing natural pigments from food waste and by-products for eco-friendly food coloring.

With unprecedented growth in the world population, the demand for food has risen drastically leading to increased agricultural production. One promising avenue is recovery of value-added pigments from food waste which has been gaining global attention. This review focuses on sustainable strategies for extracting pigments, examining the factors that influence extraction, their applications, and consumer acceptability. The significant findings of the study state the efficiency of pigment extraction through innovative extraction techniques rather than following conventional methods that are time-consuming, and unsustainable. In addition to their vibrant colors, these pigments provide functional benefits such as antioxidant properties, extended shelf life and improved food quality. Societal acceptance of pigments derived from food waste is positively driven by environmental awareness and sustainability. The study concludes by highlighting the stability challenges associated with various natural pigments, emphasizing the need for tailored stabilization methods to ensure long-term stability and effective utilization in food matrices.

A phenological-knowledge-independent method for automatic paddy rice mapping with time series of polarimetric SAR images

Paddy rice, which sustains more than half of the global population, requires accurate and efficient mapping to ensure food security. Synthetic aperture radar (SAR) has become indispensable in this process due to its remarkable ability to operate effectively in adverse weather conditions and its sensitivity to paddy rice growth. Phenological-knowledge-based (PKB) methods have been commonly employed in conjunction with time series of SAR images for paddy rice mapping, primarily because they eliminate the need for training datasets. However, PKB methods possess inherent limitations, primarily stemming from their reliance on precise phenological information regarding paddy rice growth. This information varies across regions and paddy rice varieties, making it challenging to use PKB methods effectively on a large spatial scale, such as the national or global scale, where collecting comprehensive phenological data becomes impractical. Moreover, variations in farming practices and field conditions can lead to differences in paddy rice growth stages even within the same region. Using a generalized set of phenological knowledge in PKB methods may not be suitable for all paddy fields, potentially resulting in errors in paddy rice extraction. To address the challenges posed by PKB methods, this study proposed an innovative approach known as the phenological-knowledge-independent (PKI) method for mapping paddy rice using time series of Sentinel-1 SAR images. The central innovation of the PKI method lies in its capability to map paddy rice without relying on specific knowledge of paddy rice phenology or the need for a training dataset. This was made possible by the incorporation of three novel metrics: VH and VV normalized maximum temporal changes (NMTC) and VH temporal mean, derived from the distinctions between paddy rice and other land cover types in time series of SAR images. The PKI method was rigorously evaluated across three regions in China, each featuring different paddy rice varieties. Additionally, the PKI method was compared with two prevalent phenological-knowledge-based techniques: the automated paddy rice mapping method using SAR flooding signals (ARM-SARFS) and the manual interpretation of unsupervised clustering results (MI-UCR). The PKI method achieved an average overall accuracy of 97.99%, surpassing the ARM-SARFS, which recorded an accuracy of 89.65% due to errors stemming from phenological disparities among different paddy fields. Furthermore, the PKI method delivered results on par with the MI-UCR, which relied on the fusion of SAR and optical image time series, achieving an accuracy of 97.71%. As demonstrated by these findings, the PKI method proves highly effective in mapping paddy rice across diverse regions, all without the need for phenological knowledge or a training dataset. Consequently, it holds substantial promise for efficiently mapping paddy rice on a large spatial scale. The source code used in this study is available at https://code.earthengine.google.com/f82cf10cad64fa3f971ae99027001a6e.

Hop as a phytogenic alternative to antibiotic growth promoters in poultry production.

With the rapid growth of the world's population, the demand for food is also increasing. Poultry accounts for 40% of the global meat sector and therefore represents a significant area for further growth. One starting point for increasing production is to refine the composition of feed to improve the efficiency of growth and nutrient utilization, prevent disease and at the same time reduce environmental impact. Similar considerations have led to the long-standing sub-therapeutic use of antibiotics as growth promoters in animal husbandry, which is associated with the threat of rising antimicrobial resistances and the resulting consequences for human and animal health. In order to circumvent these drawbacks, an increasing number of alternative feed additives are becoming more prevalent. The use of phytogenic feed additives, which includes hops (Humulus lupulus), is regarded as a viable alternative. In addition to its natural availability, hops have been demonstrated to exhibit antimicrobial effects and there is increasing evidence of growth-promoting effects in vivo. © 2024 The Author(s). Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.

Light Color Regulation of Photosynthetic Antennae Biogenesis in Marine Phytoplankton.

Photosynthesis in the world's oceans is primarily conducted by phytoplankton, microorganisms that use many different pigments for light capture. Synechococcus is a unicellular cyanobacterium estimated to be the second most abundant marine phototroph, with a global population of 7 x 1026 cells. This group's success is partly due to the pigment diversity in their photosynthetic light harvesting antennae, which maximize photon capture for photosynthesis. Many Synechococcus isolates adjust their antennae composition in response to shifts in the blue:green ratio of ambient light. This response was named Type 4 chromatic acclimation (CA4). Research has made significant progress in understanding CA4 across scales, from its global ecological importance to its molecular mechanisms. Two forms of CA4 exist, each correlated with the occurrence of one of two distinct but related genomic islands. Several genes in these islands are differentially transcribed by the ambient blue:green light ratio. The encoded proteins control the addition of different pigments to the antennae proteins in blue versus green light, altering their absorption characteristics to maximize photon capture. These genes are regulated by several putative transcription factors also encoded in the genomic islands. Ecologically, CA4 is the most abundant of marine Synechococcus pigment types, occurring in over 40% of the population oceanwide. It predominates at higher latitudes and at depth, suggesting that CA4 is most beneficial under sub-saturating photosynthetic light irradiances. Future CA4 research will further clarify the ecological role of CA4 and the molecular mechanisms controlling this globally important form of phenotypic plasticity.

Ameliorative Effects of Ginger on Allergic Diseases: An Updated Review.

The hypersensitivity reaction of the immune system to harmless environmental substances causes allergic diseases. Today, about 22%-30% of the world's population suffers from allergic diseases. Since the probability of change in the genetic structure during the past decades of lives is very low, genetic disorders cannot be blamed for causing allergic diseases. Thus, factors such as air pollution, climate change, change in diet, increased antibiotics consumption, change in the gut microbiome, migration toward urban areas, and increase in airborne allergens should be considered as the main causes of the spread and increase in allergic diseases. Methods of preventing contact with allergens, drug treatment, and allergen-specific immunotherapy are used to treat allergic diseases. In recent years, the therapeutic efficacy of herbal compounds has been significantly investigated by the scientific community, because these compounds have very few side effects. Ginger is one of the plant compounds that have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory properties. The ameliorative effects of this plant on allergic diseases have been identified. Therefore, the aim of this short review is to summarize the knowledge, which is available about the ameliorative properties of the compounds found in the ginger plant that can reduce the clinical symptoms of allergic diseases. The hypersensitivity reaction of the immune system to harmless environmental substances causes allergic diseases. Today, about 22%-30% of the world's population suffers from allergic diseases. Since the probability of change in the genetic structure during the past decades of lives is very low, genetic disorders cannot be blamed for causing allergic diseases. Thus, factors such as air pollution, climate change, change in diet, increase in antibiotic consumption, change in the gut microbiome, migration toward urban areas, and increase in airborne allergens should be considered as the main causes of the spread and increase in allergic diseases. Methods of preventing contact with allergens, drug treatment, and allergen-specific immunotherapy are used to treat allergic diseases. In recent years, the therapeutic efficacy of herbal compounds has been significantly investigated by the scientific community, because these compounds have very few side effects. Ginger is one of the plant compounds that have antiinflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory properties. The ameliorative effects of this plant on allergic diseases have been identified. Therefore, the aim of this short review is to summarize the knowledge, which is available about the ameliorative properties of the compounds found in the ginger plant that can reduce the clinical symptoms of allergic diseases.

A-073 Is there a relationship of FIB 4 with weight and insulin resistance in subjects without type 2 diabetes and with normal transaminases?

Abstract Background Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is a common hepatic disease, affecting 20-30% of the world's population, and is more frequent in subjects with cardiometabolic diseases. The Fibrosis-4 Index (FIB-4) is a non-invasive scoring system that helps estimate the risk of hepatic fibrosis in MASLD. It is based on age, aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and platelets (PLT). MASLD is associated with high risk of insulin resistance (IR) and type 2 diabetes (DM2), and subjects with overweight or obesity are more likely to have both. In such cases the association of FIB-4 with IR and weight are evident. It is questioned whether, even in subjects without DM2 and with normal transaminases, FIB-4 could be associated with the body mass index (BMI) and the homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance index HOMA-IR, which is the index usually used to assess IR. The objective of this study was to evaluate how FIB-4 would behave in subjects without DM2 and with normal transaminases and whether there was a correlation between FIB-4 with HOMA-IR and BMI in these subjects. Methods Authors studied the distribution of FIB-4 results and correlation of HOMA-IR and BMI with FIB-4 using the database of a clinical laboratory. We included patients aged 20-65 years, both gender, who measured fasting glucose and insulin, in the same visit, and transaminases and platelets within up to one year before or later. Were excluded hospitalized subjects, those using medications to treat DM2, dyslipidemia, subjects with blood glucose over 200 mg/dL, and AST and/or ALT above the reference range for gender and age. The methods and reference intervals were: transaminases: UVKinetic, AST < 40 U/L for men and < 32 U/L for women, ALT < 41 for men and < 33 for women; PLT: automated method, 150000-450000/µL. Glucose: hexokinase, 70 - 99 mg/dL; Insulin: electrochemiluminescence, 2-12 mcU/mL. HOMA-IR index was calculated using the equation: glucose (mg/dL) x insulin (mcIU/mL) / 405 and FIB-4 using the equation: age (years) × TGO (U/L) / [(platelets (µL) ÷1000) x √TGP (U/L))]. Shapiro Wilk test was performed to assess whether the analytes had normal distribution. To evaluate the correlation with HOMA-IR, Spearman's non-parametric correlation test was used. Results After applying the exclusion criteria and subtracting outliers 270,135 records were selected, 75% female, with 39,9 ± 10.1 years. As the parameters did not present Gaussian distribution, the results are shown in median and 25th and 75th percentiles: AST=18.9 (16-22); ALT=17.2 (13-23.3); PLT=266000 (229000-308000); glucose = 89.3 (84.2-95); insulin = 8.17 (5.52-12.8); HOMA-IR=1.81 (1.19-2.75); IMC=26.53 (23.80-29.91); FIB-4 = 0.65 (0.5 - 0.86). A weak and surprisingly negative correlation between HOMA-IR and BMI with FIB-4 was found. (HOMA-IR: r=- 0.2, p<0.001; BMI: r=- 0.1, p<0.01). Conclusions Our study showed that in a population with normal transaminases, FIB-4 had results compatible with low risk of fibrosis in subjects without DM2 even in cases with high HOMA-IR or BMI. The negative correlation was surprising and perhaps indicates that FIB-4 may not be a good predictor of liver fibrosis for this population profile.

Forecasting Population in an Uncertain World: Approaches, New Uses, and Troubling Limitations

AbstractThe long human lifespan enables long run forecasts of population size and age distribution. New methods include biodemographic research on upper limits to life expectancy and incorporation of early experiences affecting later life mortality such as smoking, obesity, and childhood health shocks. Some fertility forecasts incorporate education and quantum‐tempo insights. Statistical time series and Bayesian methods generate probabilistic forecasts. Yet recent decades have brought surprising changes in the economy, natural environment, and vital rates. In these changing circumstances we need new methods and the increasing use of probabilistic models and Bayesian methods incorporating outside information. The increasing use of microsimulation combined with aggregate forecasting methods is a very promising development enabling more detailed and heterogeneous forecasts. Some new uses of stochastic forecasts are interesting in themselves. Probabilistic mortality forecasts are used in finance and insurance, and a new Longevity Swap industry has been built on them. Random sample paths used to generate stochastic population forecasts can stress‐test public pension designs for fiscal stability and intergenerational equity. Population forecasting a few decades ago was a dull backwater of demographic research, but now it is increasingly important and is full of intellectual and technical challenges.

The epidemiological declining in the human fertility rate in the arab world for 10 years period 2011–2021

Recently, there has been worldwide growing interest on profiling the human fertility of populations because there has been a noticeable global decline in fertility rate, leading to increased attention toward reproductive health and fertility.The decline in fertility of population of the Arab World was investigated for the 10 years period between 2011–2021. The Arab World was classified into three regional blocks; Block-1 Arabian Peninsula countries: Bahrain, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Qatar, United Arab Emirates (UAE), Yemen. Block-2 Fertile Crescent Arab countries: Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, Syria, West Bank and Gaza. Block-3 African Arab countries: Algeria, Comoros, Djibouti, Egypt, Libya, Mauritania, Morocco, Somalia, Sudan, Tunisia. Data on fertility rates for the 10 years period between 2011–2021 were collected from the World Bank for Arab countries. Statistical analysis along with decline in the fertility rates were determined. Results: Fertility rates varied across Arab countries in 2011 and 2021, with notable decline ranging from 24.3% to 3.8%, except for Algeria, with zero decline. Countries that exhibited significant decline were Jordan (24.3%) followed by Iraq (22.2%) then Yemen (19.1%); Whereas, countries that exhibited slight fertility decline were Libya (3.8%), followed by Tunisia (4.5%), Lebanon (4.5%) and Kuwait (4.5%). On another note, lowest fertility rate was observed in UAE as maintained between 1.7% and 1.5% and the highest fertility rate was observed in Somalia as maintained between 7.3% and 6.3% for 2011 and 2021 respectively. Conclusion: The present study reveals the declining-trend in fertility rate across Arab countries, influenced by variable factors. Therefore, we recommend to the Council of the Health Ministries in the Arab-League to focus on investigating the fertility decline as an important parameter for public health in the Arab world to maintain natural balanced fertility rate.As some non-biological factors surrounding the Arabian region, such as instability, war, migration, the present study did not aim to include the influence of war and migration on fertility because both war and migration are non-biological external factors and both are not among the WHO criteria for fertility determination which based of the population growth rate of population under normal living conditions.

Museum as active aging place for elderly volunteer interpreters:from the perspective of Chinese ‘Family’ and ‘State’

ABSTRACT As global populations age, examining how museums can promote active aging holds practical significance. In China, an increasing number of elderly individuals are entering museums as volunteer interpreters. As they serve the museum, this engagement profoundly impacts their active aging. This paper, based on participant observation and in-depth interviews, analyzes the motivations, behaviors, and impacts of 20 elderly volunteer museum interpreters in China. The study reveals that the dialectical relationship between the individual and the ‘family’ and ‘state’ in Chinese traditional culture serves as an intrinsic motivation for the active aging of elderly volunteer interpreters. It also identifies this relationship as an outcome of the active aging they pursue. Chinese museums have contextual specialties in addressing the issue of aging. The study illustrates the value of museums in challenging the perspective of ageism and underscores the importance of cultural context for understanding elderly people’s active aging.

Salt tolerance in wheat is associated with the maintenance of shoot biomass, stomatal conductance, and sucrose in the phloem.

Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is a mega-staple for millions of the world's populations and its yield potential is impacted by soil salinization. This study investigated genotypic variation in salt tolerance among six wheat genotypes, Gladius, Drysdale, GD0014, GD0120, GD0180, and GD0185. The study also characterized shoot traits, photosynthetic traits, leaf Na and K concentrations, and phloem sucrose. The plants were grown under controlled growth room conditions at 0 mM NaCl (Control) and 100 mM NaCl. The results showed that the salt tolerance index (STISFW, SFW: shoot fresh weight) varied from 0.52 for GD0120 to 0.69 for GD0180. Based on the STISFW, salt tolerance for the wheat genotypes was in the order, GD0180 > Gladius > GD0185 > Drysdale > GD0014 > GD0120. Projected shoot area (PSA) at all growth stages, 14, 20, 27, 34, and 40 DAS were strongly correlated with SFW at 45 DAS. Salt treatment significantly increased phloem sucrose level in the salt intolerant, Drysdale, while having no effect on this parameter in Gladius. Gladius showed greater maintenance of stomatal conductance than Drysdale. The relative ratio of K/Na between treatment and control was strongly correlated with the relative ratio of SFW (r = .85). The correlation between PSA at 14 DAS and SFW at 45 DAS and the correlation between the relative ratio of K/Na between treatment and control with STISFW identify these parameters to be potential traits for screening salt tolerance in wheat. Higher salt tolerance in Gladius would be associated with higher maintenance of stomatal conductance and enhanced phloem sucrose transport.

A Comprehensive Review of Herbal Medicines for the Treatment of Alzheimer's Disease

Abstract: The choices of treatment for Alzheimer's are based on NMDA-receptor antagonists and cholinesterase inhibitors, although their efficacy as a therapy is still up for debate. BPSD (Behavioural and Psychological Symptoms of Dementia) have been treated using herbal medicine products, with varying degrees of success. This manuscript sets out to answer the question, "Can herbs be effective in the treatment of cognitive impairments in patients?" by examining evidences from controlled research. The process by which Alzheimer's disease develops remains a mystery, and the present Alzheimer's treatment strategy, which consists of administering a single medicine to treat a single target, appears to be clinically ineffective. AD treatment will require a combination of approaches that target many signs and causes of the disease. The results of currently available licensed therapies for AD are often disappointing, and alternative medicine, especially herbal therapy, may play a role. Over 80% of the world's population, particularly in developing nation, gets their main health care from herbal medicines. They have persisted through the years due to their low risk, high reward, widespread acceptance across cultures, and absence of detrimental side effects. In some cases, herbal remedies have proven to be more effective than conventional medical treatments. They are assumed to be natural unless proven otherwise by the presence of unnatural additives. The absence of adverse reactions is a major advantage of herbal treatment. In addition, they provide ongoing advantages to health. Salvia officinalis, Ginkgo biloba, Melissa officinalis, Panax ginseng, Coriandrum sativum, Curcuma longa, Ashwagandha, Uncaria Tomentosa, Crocus Sativus and Allium Sativum are all studied for their potential effects on Alzheimer's disease.

HLA Genetic Variants in COVID-19 Susceptibility: Assessing Diversity in Indian and Global Populations

Background: The rapid spread of the SARS-CoV-2 virus has had a global impact on various ethnic groups. In order to assess the genetic predisposition of the Indian population towards COVID-19, a comparative analysis was conducted using the Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) to investigate the frequencies of polymorphisms directly or potentially associated with COVID-19 susceptibility, severity, immune response, and fatal outcomes in comparison to other major populations. Objectives: The objective of this study is to evaluate the genetic predisposition of the Indian population to COVID-19 by analyzing the frequencies and associations of Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) polymorphisms. In addition, by delineating the role of specific HLA variants in the Indian context, the study seeks to enhance our understanding of genetic factors influencing COVID-19 impact and contribute to personalized approaches for disease management and prevention across diverse ethnic groups. Methods: We collected allelic information for DRB1 gene from 653 populations globally, as documented in The Allele Frequency Net Database (AFND). Data on COVID-19 susceptibility, severity, mortality, and protective factors were obtained from a previous global study. This study aimed to compare the specific frequencies of HLA-DRB1* in different ethnic groups, including other Indian populations with COVID-19-associated alleles and protective factors. Results: HLA-DRB1*01 was identified as a significant determinant of COVID-19 susceptibility among patients in 28 states of Mexico, whereas DRB1*08 in Saudi Arabian populations, DRB1*09:01 in Japanese populations, and DRB1*15:01 in Italian populations also showed this association. Likewise, DRB1*04 in the Iranian population played a role in disease severity, and DRB1*08 in the Italian population was associated with mortality in COVID-19 patients. In addition, alleles DRB1*01:01 and DRB1*04:01 were found to exhibit a protective role in Northeast England, whereas DRB1*04 demonstrated protective effects in Saudi Arabian populations. Conclusion: The involvement of HLA in COVID-19 requires further investigation, and epidemiological studies should focus on HLA profiles as determinants of the host immune system. Prolonged homozygosity in particular genomic regions could potentially increase susceptibility to COVID-19 infection. Therefore, prudent management strategies are recommended for this pandemic in isolated communities in India and worldwide.

Clinical research progress of fruquintinib in the treatment of malignant tumors.

Malignant tumors represent an important cause of mortality within the global population. Tumor angiogenesis, recognized as one of the key hallmarks of malignant tumors, is crucial for supplying essential nutrients and oxygen for tumor growth. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and its receptor (VEGFR) are key drivers of tumor angiogenesis. Targeted therapeutic interventions not only effectively inhibit tumor growth by specifically blocking tumor angiogenesis but have also made breakthroughs in the treatment of malignant tumors. Fruquintinib, an anti-angiogenic small molecule drug developed independently in China, functions as a potent tyrosine kinase inhibitor with high selectivity. It effectively curtails tumor growth by binding to and inhibiting VEGFR-1, VEGFR-2, and VEGFR-3. Additionally, fruquintinib offers several advantages including minimal off-target toxicity, robust resistance profiles, and commendable efficacy. This agent can be used alone or in combination with other treatments. It has shown high effectiveness and survival benefits across various malignant tumors such as colorectal cancer, gastric cancer, non-small cell lung cancer, breast cancer, and other malignant tumors. Therefore, this article conducts a systematic review encompassing the mechanism of action, pharmacokinetics, clinical efficacy, and safety profile of fruquintinib. Through this review, we aimed to offer a reference for the clinical application and subsequent development of fruquintinib.

Mapping the Landscape of Obesity Effects on Male Reproductive Function: A Bibliometric Study.

Due to changes in lifestyle and dietary habits, the global population with obesity is increasing gradually, resulting in a significant rise in the number of individuals having obesity. Obesity is caused by an imbalance between energy intake and consumption, leading to excessive fat accumulation, which interferes with normal human metabolism. It is also associated with cardiovascular disease, metabolic syndrome, male reproductive endocrine regulation disorders, systemic and local inflammatory reactions, excessive oxidative stress, and apoptosis. All these factors can damage the internal environment for sperm generation and maturation, resulting in male sexual dysfunction, a decline in sperm quality, and lower fertility. This study analyzes the trends and priorities of the effects of obesity on male reproductive disorders from a bibliometric perspective. This study uses the Web of Science as the statistical source, covering all time spans. Tools like Web of Science, VOSviewer, and CiteSpace are used to analyze countries, institutions, authors, journals, and keywords in the field. Total publications, total citations, and average number of citations are selected for statistics. The results show that the research on the impact of obesity on male reproductive function can be roughly divided into three stages: the initial stage, the slow development stage, and the rapid development stage. Our statistical scope includes 463 highly relevant articles that we have screened. We found that the journal with the most publications in this field is Andrologia, and the institution with the highest total citations is the University of Utah. The most influential countries, institutions, and authors in this field are the United States, the University of Utah, and Carrell, Douglas. Currently, research related to the impact of obesity on male reproduction focuses mainly on three aspects: biochemistry, molecular biology, and reproductive biology. The keyword explosion results indicate that sperm, obesity, and male reproduction are at the forefront and trends of future research in this field. There has been a shift from basic biochemical and molecular research to research on molecular mechanisms relying on omics technologies. However, we have observed that the number of papers published in 2022 is lower than in 2021, indicating a growth interruption during this period. Considering that this deviation may be due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, it may hinder the progress of certain experiments in 2022. In recent years, China has rapidly developed research in this field. However, the average citation rate is relatively low, indicating the need for Chinese scholars to improve the quality of their articles further. Based on our research and in the context of global obesity, men are at risk of increased infertility. Addressing this issue relies on our continued research into the mechanisms of obesity-related male reproductive disorders. Over the past forty-three years, with the contributions of scientists worldwide, research in this field has flourished. The impact of obesity on male reproductive disorders has been extensively studied. Currently, research in this field primarily focuses on male sperm function, sperm quality, and the effects or mechanisms of cells on male reproduction. Future trends in this field should concentrate on the relationship between male fertility and energy metabolism, as well as the endocrine function of adipose tissue. This study comprehensively analyzes the current research status and global trends in obesity and male reproductive disorders. We also discuss the future developments in this field, making it easier for researchers to understand its developmental history, current status, and trends, providing valuable reference for effective exploration in this area.

Targeted opportunities to mitigate water scarcity, inequality, and inequity embedded in international food trade for vulnerable countries

International food trade reshapes regional water scarcity through virtual water transfers (VWT), influencing water use equality and equity. This study examines eight populous yet impoverished countries in Africa and Asia, representing 30% of the global poor population and contributing 20% to agricultural VWT. Despite their significant role, these countries have been understudied due to a lack of data or attention. By integrating multiple datasets and models, we assess how international food trade impacts water scarcity, inequality, and inequity within these countries and identify the driving factors. Our findings reveal varied outcomes: Uganda and Ethiopia benefit from reduced water scarcity (∼40% and ∼7%) and improved equality and equity (∼90% and ∼68%), while India and Pakistan face exacerbated scarcity (∼4% and ∼2%) and widening inequality and inequity (∼4% and ∼7%). The effects are largely driven by critical trade flows of staple and cash crops like rice, sugar cane, and cotton among developing countries, propelled by comparative advantages in agricultural production, econo-geography, food demand, and water endowment between importers and exporters. Addressing these water challenges involves diversifying import channels to reduce reliance on detrimental trade flows, such as India's rice exports to Iran, while promoting beneficial flows, like Bangladesh's cotton imports from India, through trade agreements. Additionally, implementing pro-poor water policies (e.g., providing water subsidies) and water-saving techniques (e.g., adopting drip irrigation) is crucial, though caution is needed to avoid unintendedly marginalizing vulnerable groups through large-scale water projects.

Sistem Otomatisasi Pemberian Pakan secara Terjadwal untuk Pembibitan Ikan Lele di Fardu Farm Pekanbaru menggunakan PLC dan IoT

<p><strong>With the increasing global population growth, the demand for fishery products, including catfish, continues to rise. Catfish seed production plays a crucial role in the fisheries production chain, as this stage ensures the availability of high-quality fish seeds. However, fish farmers still face challenges in increasing aquaculture production, especially regarding inefficient manual feeding practices. This research aims to develop an automated catfish feeding system on a schedule at Fardu Farm using a combination of Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) and Internet of Things (IoT) technologies. In this study, the researchers design and implement an automation system that enables scheduled feeding in catfish seedlings. The use of Outseal PLC connected to IoT allows for precise and efficient feeding control. This research conducts testing to verify the system's performance, including measuring the weight of the feed dispensed and testing feeding over specific time periods. The results of the study indicate that this automation system successfully provides timely feeding according to the established schedule. Additionally, manual control using the Blynk platform also yields good responsiveness. Thus, the developed system can enhance efficiency in feeding catfish seedlings at Fardu Farm.</strong></p><p><strong><em>Keywords</em></strong> - <em>Automation, Feeding, Catfish Breeding, PLC, IoT.</em></p>

Neuronutritional Approach to Fibromyalgia Management: A Narrative Review.

Fibromyalgia (FM) is a complex and common syndrome characterized by chronic widespread pain, fatigue, sleep disturbances, and various functional symptoms without clear structural or pathological causes. Affecting approximately 1-5% of the global population, with a higher prevalence in women, FM significantly impacts patients' quality of life, often leading to considerable healthcare costs and loss of productivity. Despite its prevalence, the etiology of FM remains elusive, with genetic, environmental, and psychological factors, including nutrition, being implicated. Currently, no universally accepted treatment guidelines exist, and management strategies are often symptomatic. This narrative review explores the potential of a neuronutritional approach to FM management. It synthesizes existing research on the relationship between FM and nutrition, suggesting that dietary interventions could be a promising complementary treatment strategy. Various nutritional interventions, including vitamin D, magnesium, iron, and probiotics supplementation, have shown potential in reducing FM symptoms, such as chronic pain, anxiety, depression, cognitive dysfunction, sleep disturbances, and gastrointestinal issues. Additionally, weight loss has been associated with reduced inflammation and improved quality of life in FM patients. The review highlights the anti-inflammatory benefits of plant-based diets and the low-FODMAPs diet, which have shown promise in managing FM symptoms and related gastrointestinal disorders. Supplements such as vitamin D, magnesium, vitamin B12, coenzyme Q10, probiotics, omega-3 fatty acids, melatonin, S-adenosylmethionine, and acetyl-L-carnitine are discussed for their potential benefits in FM management through various mechanisms, including anti-inflammatory effects, modulation of neurotransmitters, and improvement of mitochondrial function. In conclusion, this review underscores the importance of considering neuronutrition as a holistic approach to FM treatment, advocating for further research and clinical trials to establish comprehensive dietary guidelines and to optimize management strategies for FM patients.

Emergence and evolution of mosaic penA-60 and penA-237 alleles in a Neisseria gonorrhoeae core genogroup that was historically susceptible to extended spectrum cephalosporins

IntroductionNeisseria gonorrhoeae (Ng) has successively developed resistance to all previously recommended antimicrobial therapies, with ceftriaxone being the last option for monotherapy of gonorrhea. Global emergence and international spread of the FC428 clone derived mosaic penA-60 allele, associated with highlevel ceftriaxone minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) in non FC428 clone Ng lineages, has become an increasing concern. The penA-60 allele carrying Ng was first identified in the U.S. in Las Vegas, Nevada (2019; GCWGS-102723), with a multi-locus sequence type (MLST)-1901 strain, in a non FC428 clone Ng lineage, which is associated with a historically ceftriaxone susceptible core genogroup. Later in 2022, an allele genetically similar to penA-60, mosaic penA-237, was identified in the UK (H22-722) and France (F92) with high-level ceftriaxone MICs and both belonged to MLST-1901.MethodsIn this study, we assessed phylogenomic relatedness and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) determinant profiles of these three isolates with high-level ceftriaxone MICs among a global collection of 2,104 genomes belonging to the MLST-1901 core genome cluster group 31, which includes strains separated by a locus threshold of 200 or fewer differences (Ng_cgc_200). Recombination events in and around the penA coding region were catalogued and potential sources of inter species recombinant DNA were also inferred.ResultsThe global population structure of MLST-1901 core genogroup falls into 4 major lineages. Isolates GCWGS-10723, F92, and H22-722 clustered within Lineage 1, which was dominated by non-mosaic penA-5 alleles. These three isolates formed a clade within Lineage 1 that consisted of isolates from North America and southeast Asia. Neisseria subflava and Neisseria sicca were identified as likely progenitors of two independent recombination events that may have led to the generation of mosaic penA-60 and penA-237, within a possible non-mosaic penA-5 background.DiscussionsOur study suggests that there are multiple evolutionary pathways that could generate concerning mosaic penA alleles via homologous recombination of historically susceptible Ng lineages with Neisseria commensals. Enhanced surveillance of gonococcal strains and Neisseria commensals is crucial for understanding of the evolution of AMR, particularly in less-studied regions (e.g., Asia), where high-level ceftriaxone MICs and multi-drug resistance are more prevalent.

Navigating the Landscape of Precision Horticulture: Sustainable Agriculture in the Digital Age

Automation, autonomy, and precision play vital roles in modern technology and procedures, especially in response to the rising global population and the need for improved fruit production technologies. The quality criteria for fruit yield are becoming increasingly complex, necessitating fundamental upgrades. Sensor-based technologies pave the way for more rational and efficient soil usage. Precision farming, an advanced agricultural approach, employs software technologies and principles to optimize various aspects of horticultural production. Its goal is to enhance crop yields and promote environmental sustainability by managing spatial and temporal variations. Precision horticulture, a cutting-edge farming method, focuses on increasing crop yields and quality while minimizing environmental impact. This approach leverages advanced technology and data-driven decision-making. By utilizing sensors, robots, drones, and other innovative tools for yield mapping, irrigation control, robotic harvesting, nutrient and pesticide application, soil sensing, and crop growth analysis, growers can monitor plant growth and health, identify potential issues, and make informed crop management decisions. Tailoring practices to specific plant needs can lead to higher yields, improved product quality, and reduced environmental impact. Overall, precision horticulture holds significant promise for promoting sustainable agricultural practices while meeting the increasing demand for food production.

An adaptive dynamical system model for development of schizophrenia: Epigenetics and false memories

This paper introduces a fifth-order adaptive dynamical system model represented as a self-modelling network model to understand the role of epigenetic factors in developing schizophrenia, particularly about the occurrence of false memories. Schizophrenia, affecting a significant portion of the global population, presents complex challenges due to its symptoms across cognitive, emotional, and social domains. Central to this paper is the exploration of epigenetic influences on the development of schizophrenia, with a focus on how these epigenetic factors contribute to the generation of false memories, a notable symptom of the disorder. The model assumes that early adverse experiences significantly affect hippocampal development, which is crucial for memory processes. By employing a fifth-order adaptive dynamical system model represented as a self-modelling network, this paper examines the intricate dynamics between genetic predispositions, environmental factors, and epigenetic modifications in schizophrenia. The model’s sophistication allows for a nuanced understanding of the gene-environment interactions, particularly highlighting the role of early-life trauma in shaping lifelong cognitive outcomes. This approach offers a comprehensive framework for analyzing the multifaceted nature of schizophrenia, contributing to a deeper understanding of its etiology and progression.