World Population Research Articles

Prevalence of problematic drug use in Martinique in 2006: The NEMO study

ObjectivesSubstance use disorders are of worldwide public health interest. Local estimates of problematic drug use provide useful indicators to regional public health agencies in developing prevention and treatment programs. The purpose of the current study was to estimate the prevalence of problematic drug use in Martinique. MethodsThe capture-recapture method was applied to a multisource data collection (eight specialized drug and two law enforcement sources) to provide an estimate of drug use (opiates, cocaine hydrochloride, crack (cocaine base), stimulants and/or hallucinogens). Data collection was organized over a period of six consecutive months (September 2005 to March 2006) and concerned all persons residing in Martinique longer than three months and who had consumed at least one of the studied drugs in the month prior to the study. ResultsWe identified 287 cases (86% male; mean age 36.1±9.6 years), 98% of whom had used crack. Comorbid use of illicit drugs other than alcohol and cannabis was 4%. Our study showed that patients with problematic drug use in Martinique is estimated to be 1.936 [95% CI: 964,2907] in a total population of 380.863 (INSEE, 1999). Prevalence rates were 5.0 per thousand among the global population and 7.7 per thousand in the adult population aged 15–64 years. ConclusionsOur study is the first to provide relevant data on the extent of problematic drug use in Martinique for health policies and decision-makers.

Cross national patterns in educational inequalities in functional limitations among middle aged and older adults at two time points

IntroductionIn recent decades, the global population has aged rapidly while socioeconomic inequalities in health have widened, with older adults who are most disadvantaged experiencing the poorest health. Functional limitations are key predictors of disability and quality of life and are therefore considered an important measure of how well individuals and populations are aging. We determine if educational inequalities in functioning have widened over time and across countries. MethodsWe used data from five nationally representative surveys of aging, covering 14 high- and middle-income countries, with harmonized measures of functional limitations. We examined change over time in the number of functional limitations among adults aged 50-64 and 65 and older in each country as well as changes in educational inequality in functional limitations over time for both age groups. ResultsIn most high-income countries, the number of functional limitations decreased over time, but they increased in China and Mexico, with the largest increases occurring among adults 65 and older. Educational inequality in functional limitations among those aged 65 and older widened for several countries in our study, but for different reasons. In some countries, it widened due to increased limitations among the least-educated, while in others it widened due to declines in limitations among the most-educated. ConclusionGrowing educational inequality in functional limitations for older adults in several high- and middle-income countries suggests that, despite improvements in health and mortality, socioeconomic differences in functional health among older adults are widening.

A novel blockchain-based system for improving information integrity in building projects from the perspective of building energy performance

Global population growth has long been intertwined with environmental concerns and sustainable development. The building sector, a significant energy consumer worldwide, contributes substantially to total energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. With the projected global population projected to reach 9.7 billion by 2050, building energy consumption is expected to rise continuously, emphasizing the need to optimize energy performance for environmental sustainability. Despite efforts by many countries to formulate energy conservation objectives and strategies, empirical evidence reveals a substantial disparity between designed and actual building energy consumption, known as the building energy performance gap (BEPG). This gap poses a significant challenge to energy conservation efforts, and the lack of information integrity is a significant contributor to this gap. To address the challenge of inadequate information integrity in building energy projects, this research proposes an innovative solution based on blockchain technology. By utilizing blockchain's decentralized, transparent, and tamper-resistant nature, the proposed model aims to enhance information transmission mechanisms among stakeholders. Ten key energy-related stakeholders and various information flows within building projects are identified. Based on this, an exploratory architectural information management model incorporating blockchain technology is developed. The model features functionalities such as data recording, retrieval, transmission, and incentive mechanisms to ensure data immutability and reliable access security. Through a case study, the model's performance is evaluated in terms of storage cost, latency, and privacy, demonstrating significant time savings in uploading and transferring files. The proposed blockchain-based model offers a feasible solution to the challenges of inadequate information integrity in building energy projects, promoting collaboration and accurate information transmission. This model contributes to improving project outcomes and advancing sustainable development in the construction industry.

Population-based prevalence of self-reported pediatric diabetes and screening for undiagnosed type 2 diabetes in Chinese children in years 2017–2019, a cross-sectional study

The worldwide geographical and temporal variation in the prevalence of diabetes represents a challenge, but also an opportunity for gaining etiological insights. Encompassing the bulk of East Asians, a large and distinct proportion of the world population, China can be a source of valuable epidemiological insights for diabetes, especially in early life, when pathophysiology begins. We carried out a nationwide, epidemiological survey of Prevalence and Risk of Obesity and Diabetes in Youth (PRODY) in China, from 2017 to 2019, to estimate the population-based prevalence of diagnosed pediatric diabetes and screen for undiagnosed pediatric type 2 diabetes (T2D). PRODY was a nation-wide, school population-based, cross-sectional, multicenter survey by questionnaire, fasting urine glucose test and simple oral glucose tolerance test (s-OGTT), among a total number of 193,801 general-population children and adolescents (covered a pediatric population of more than 96.8 million), aged 3-18, from twelve provinces across China. The prevalence of the self-reported pediatric diabetes, the proportion of subtypes, the crude prevalence of undiagnosed T2D and prediabetes in general juvenile population and the main risk factors of type 1 (T1D) and type 2 (T2D) diabetes had been analyzed in the study. The prevalence of all self-reported pediatric diabetes was estimated at 0.62/1000 (95% CI: 0.51-0.74), with T1D at 0.44/1000 (95% CI: 0.35-0.54) and T2D at 0.18/1000 (95% CI: 0.13-0.25). For undiagnosed T2D, the crude prevalence was almost ten-fold higher, at 1.59/1000, with an estimated extra 28.45/1000 of undiagnosed impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) and 53.74/1000 of undiagnosed impaired fasting glucose (IFG) by s-OGTT screening. Maternal diabetes history is the major risk factors for all subtypes of pediatric diabetes in China. The PRODY study provides the first population-based estimate of the prevalence of pediatric diabetes China and reveals a magnitude of the problem of undiagnosed pediatric T2D. We propose a practical screening strategy by s-OGTT to address this serious gap. The National Key Research and Development Programme of China, Key R&D Program of Zhejiang, the National Natural Science Foundation of China and the Zhejiang Provincial Key Disciplines of Medicine, Key R&D Program Projects in Zhejiang Province.

Political PR in International Digital Communications: The Experience of the Eurasian Media Space

Digital media has become an integral part of the political life of citizens, as an increasing number of people around the world use digital media technologies for communication. Digital media contribute to the formation of socio-political factors that raise concerns about the spread of disinformation, information disagreements and political polarization.Aim. To analyze the tools, problems and opportunities of political PR in the context of digitalization of the media space in foreign countries and the EAEU countries.Tasks. To give significant ideas about the concepts of “political public relations” and “political communication”; to identify factors influencing political communication processes; to present international experience in the application of political PR in the context of digitalization of media; to formulate the possibilities for the development of Eurasian integration in the context of digitalization of the media space.Methods. The methodological basis of the scientific research was such modern general scientific research methods as: comparative analysis, statistical and structural-logical methods, content analysis of open sources of information.Results. The paper defines the role and importance of digital media in political PR activities, identifies traditional and modern factors of influence on political activity, as well as problems in the new digital reality. To build political communications with the audience, its impact and increase engagement, political organizations use new media technologies using multimodality. In practice, the digital inequality of the world population deprives a number of people of digital communication, and as a result, the necessary conditions for participation in the political and economic life of the country. The digital divide of the EAEU countries reduces the political communicative impact on citizens’ beliefs in the need to strengthen integration processes. It seems appropriate to introduce consistency in the formation of the Eurasian integration agenda and a single digital information field to increase the political culture of civic engagement in all EAEU member states.Conclusions. With the help of variation of resources, the necessary content is formed to create the necessary audience effect. Indeed, digital media has a number of advantages that have been proven in practice, however, political PR is influenced by the negative side of the development of digital communications — the spread of fake news, most of which cannot be traced to the source. Therefore, the transformation of digital opportunities, the distribution of political resources, the dissemination of political discourse and the structure of political opportunities in the digital age is the most relevant in the modern world. Using the example of the EAEU countries, it is proved that digitalization in the international media space causes the involvement of citizens of different countries in integration, generalization and formation of public support for the state.

Clinical care guidance in patients with diabetes and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease: A joint consensus.

Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is the most prevalent chronic liver disease worldwide, affecting >30% of the global population. Metabolic dysregulation, particularly insulin resistance and its subsequent manifestation as type 2 diabetes mellitus, serves as the fundamental pathogenesis of metabolic liver disease. Clinical evidence of the recent nomenclature evolution is accumulating. The interaction and impacts are bidirectional between MASLD and diabetes in terms of disease course, risk, and prognosis. Therefore, there is an urgent need to highlight the multifaceted links between MASLD and diabetes for both hepatologists and diabetologists. The surveillance strategy, risk stratification of management, and current therapeutic achievements of metabolic liver disease remain the major pillars in a clinical care setting. Therefore, the Taiwan Association for the Study of the Liver (TASL), Taiwanese Association of Diabetes Educators, and Diabetes Association of the Republic of China (Taiwan) collaboratively completed the first guidance in patients with diabetes and MASLD, which provides practical recommendations for patient care.

Agricultural carbon credits: A pathway to environmental sustainability

Climate change and ensuring food security for a rapidly growing global population are two of the biggest challenges in agriculture. To meet the commitments made in the Paris Climate Agreement, it is important to use effective methods for managing soil that can help sequester and stabilise carbon. Conservation agriculture has a huge potential to sequester carbon in plants and soil, making it a viable option for carbon trading despite its significant contribution to global greenhouse gas emissions. Carbon sequestration can be achieved through sustainable practices such as adopting conservation agriculture, crop rotation, cover crop cultivation, crop residue incorporation or mulching, effective management of nutrient supply to crops, and transforming towards organic agriculture and agroforestry. These practices promote food security and environmental improvement and help mitigate global warming. Carbon pricing mechanisms are policies that impose a cost on carbon pollution, encouraging people and organisations to choose low-carbon options and reduce their emissions. Agricultural producers can benefit from carbon trading by earning extra revenue by selling their excess carbon credits to those who emit higher amounts of greenhouse gases. Carbon credit systems in agriculture are still in the early stages, so farmers may have more opportunities to participate in future carbon trading.

Identification of highly conserved surface-exposed peptides of spike protein for multiepitope vaccine design against emerging omicron variants: An immunoinformatic approach

The COVID-19 pandemic, originating in Wuhan in 2019, was caused by SARS-CoV-2, leading to significant global fatalities. Despite the development of vaccines, the virus mutates, creating variants that evade vaccine-induced immunity. To address SARS-CoV-2′s evolving nature, a multiepitope vaccine was developed using immunoinformatics approach, specifically targeting the Omicron variant’s spike protein. This vaccine includes six CD8 + and eleven CD4 + epitopes selected for their immunogenicity, non-toxicity, and significant conservation among former Variants of Concern (VOCs) and Variants of Interest (VOIs), such as Alpha, Beta, Gamma, Delta, Lambda, Mu, R1, and Zeta, as well as current Variants Under Monitoring (VUMs) like XBB.1.5, XBB.1.16, EG.5, BA.2.86, and JN.1. Notably, certain epitopes like ELLHAPATV and PYRVVVLSFELLHAP were fully conserved across all tested variants in the spike protein’s receptor binding domain (RBD). Others, such as NATRFASVYAWNRKR, were fully conserved in all former VOCs and VOIs and 93.33 % in current VUMs, while ERDISTEIYQAGNKP was entirely conserved in current VUMs within the RBD region. The study went on to model, refine, and validate the vaccine prototype’s tertiary structure. Docking experiments and molecular dynamic simulations revealed robust and stable interactions with Toll-like receptor 4. Cloning and codon optimization confirmed successful expression in E. coli. Subsequently, the immunological reaction of the multiepitope vaccine demonstrated that the three-time administration of the prototype significantly enhanced the antibody response while decreasing the number of antigens. The designed vaccine’s epitopes showed significant combined global population coverage of 100 % with 89.75 % for CD8 + and 99.98 % for CD4 + epitopes and conservation across SARS-CoV-2 variants especially in current monitoring omicron subvariants, supporting its broader applicability and potential efficacy. Although, this promising vaccine candidate needs to undergo clinical trials to determine its effectiveness in neutralising SARS-CoV-2.

046. Endoscopic Balloon Dilation for Releasing Post Operative Common Bile Duct Stricture: A-Case Report

Background: CBD stones, or stones in the bile duct, affect approximately 10-15% of the global population, with 1-15% specifically experiencing bile duct stones. This prevalence is notably higher in Western populations, where around 20-25% may be affected. Case: We present a case of a 38-year-old woman who came to the polyclinic for a check-up after biliary stent installation 3 months ago. No jaundice was found, and postoperative pain was within normal limits. The patient had a history of LCBDE for indications of bile duct stones with the installation of a 10 Fr 9 cm biliary stent. Endoscopy confirmed the stent's position, after which it was extracted using a snare. A sphincterotomy facilitated the cannulation of the ampulla of Vateri. Cholangiography revealed dilation of both intra- and extrahepatic biliary tracts, with no gallstones detected but a stricture noted in the common bile duct (CBD). Sphincterotomy and balloon dilation were performed at the ampulla, followed by balloon dilation (CRE balloon at 3 atm, Ø 5 mm) at the stricture site. Post-procedure cholangiography indicated reduced stricture without contrast leakage, and the patient was stable for outpatient discharge the next day. Conclusion: Management of choledocholithiasis must be done properly. Several post-operative complications can occur, one of which is biliary stricture. In this case, dilation management with a dilation balloon has been performed. The stricture decreased after the procedure.

Global trends and projections of occupational trichloroethylene (TCE) exposure-associated kidney cancer: Insights of the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) Study 2021 from 1990 to 2021 and prediction to 2050

BackgroundExposure to trichloroethylene (TCE) in occupations is associated with an increased risk of kidney cancer (KC). However, there is a lack of comprehensive study on the global burden of occupational exposure to TCE-related KC. MethodsEpidemiological data on occupational TCE exposure-associated KC from 1990 to 2021 were obtained from Global Burden of Disease (GBD) 2021 study, including death counts and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs). Global burden of this disease was stratified by genders, age, socio-demographic index (SDI) quintiles, GBD subcontinental regions, and countries. The estimated annual percentage change (EAPC) was calculated to illustrate trends over the last 32 years, and forecasts were conducted to predict the disease burden until 2050. ResultsIn 2021, the global age-standardized death rate (ASDR) of occupational TCE exposure-related KC was 0.0009 (95 %UI: 0.0002–0.0016) per 100,000 persons, and the age-standardized DALY rate (ASDAR) was 0.0284 (95 %UI: 0.0062–0.0522) per 100,000 individuals. The disease showed significant heterogeneity by sex and age, with males bearing a notably higher burden, and the burden being concentrated in the 50–79 year-old group. Major burdens were focused in middle to high-middle SDI regions, especially in Southern Latin America (Uruguay, Argentina, and Chile). Over 32 years, the burden of occupational TCE exposure-associated KC has gradually increased, with projections indicating continued growth to 2050, particularly among males and individuals aged 50–79. Regions like high-middle SDI areas, North America, High-income North America, Southern Sub-Saharan Africa, saw the most significant increases. Correlation analyses indicated a positive association between ASDR and ASDAR with SDI, while EAPC showed a notable negative correlation with SDI. Decomposition analyses reveals three global population determinants that positively contributed to the increase in deaths, but negatively impacted DALYs. ConclusionThis study highlights a significant rising trend of occupational TCE exposure-associated KC from 1990 to 2021 and projected to 2050, with an emphasis on the disease burden in men, elderly population, and middle to high-middle SDI regions, underscoring the impact of occupational TCE exposure on KC.

Integrating Sustainability and Cultural Sensitivity: Clustering Muslim Tourist Lifestyles in the Andaman Coastal Cluster, Thailand

This study explores the integration of sustainability and cultural sensitivity in clustering Muslim tourist lifestyles in the Andaman coastal region. The Muslim tourist demographic, representing a significant portion of the global population, prioritizes halal standards and Islamic attributes in their travel experiences. This research investigates the lifestyle patterns of Muslim tourists and their alignment with sustainable tourism principles, particularly in Thailand’s Andaman coastal area, known for its marine and beach tourism. A multi-method approach was employed, utilizing the AIO (Activities, Interests, and Opinions) framework for quantitative data collection through the surveys of 836 Muslim tourists, and qualitative insights from in-depth interviews and focus group discussions with local stakeholders. The study identified key lifestyle clusters: Mainstream Travelers, Experience Seekers, and Chillouts, each with specific preferences for halal services, prayer facilities, and eco-friendly accommodations. The findings underscore the importance of a tailored approach in promoting sustainable tourism that respects cultural values. Recommendations include enhancing halal-certified services, improving infrastructure for religious practices, and promoting eco-friendly tourism options. By aligning sustainability with cultural sensitivity, the Andaman coastal region can attract more Muslim tourists while preserving its environmental and cultural heritage. This research contributes to the broader discourse on sustainable tourism by emphasizing cultural sensitivity and provides practical guidelines for tourism stakeholders in the Andaman region to develop inclusive and sustainable tourism strategies.

Developing a chimeric multiepitope vaccine against Nipah virus (NiV) through immunoinformatics, molecular docking and dynamic simulation approaches

Nipah virus (NiV) is a highly lethal zoonotic pathogen that poses a significant threat to human and animal health. Unfortunately, no effective treatments have been developed for this deadly zoonotic disease. Therefore, we designed a chimeric multiepitope vaccine targeting the Nipah virus (NiV) glycoprotein and fusion protein through immunoinformatic approaches. Therefore, the vaccine was developed by combining promising and potential antigenic MHC-I, MHC-II, and B-cell epitopes obtained from the selected proteins. When combined, the MHC-I and MHC-II epitopes offered 100% global population coverage. The physicochemical characterization also exhibited favorable properties, including solubility and potential functional stability of the vaccine within the body (GRAVY score of -0.308). Structural analyses unveiled a well-stabilized secondary and tertiary structure with a Ramachandran score of 84.4% and a Z score of -5.02. Findings from docking experiments with TLR-2 (-1089.3 KJ/mol) and TLR-4 (-1016.7 KJ/mol) showed a strong affinity of the vaccine towards the receptor. Molecular dynamics simulations revealed unique conformational dynamics among the "vaccine-apo," "vaccine-TLR-2," and "vaccine-TLR-4" complexes. Consequently, the complexes exhibited significant compactness, flexibility, and exposure to solvents. The results of the codon optimization were remarkable, as the vaccine showed a significant amount of expression in the E. coli vector (GC content of 45.36 % and a CAI score of 1.0). The results of immune simulations, however, showed evidence of both adaptive and innate immune responses induced by the vaccine. Therefore, we highly recommend further research on this chimeric multiepitope vaccine to establish its efficacy and safety against the Nipah virus (NiV).

Simulation of Pyrolysis Process for Waste Plastics Using Aspen Plus: Performance and Emission Analysis of PPO-Diesel and PPO-Biodiesel Blends

As the global population increases, so does the usage of plastics in households, water bottles, and garbage bags, posing significant environmental threats. Plastics, being inorganic waste with long degradation periods, contaminate air, water, and soil when disposed of in landfills. Given the rise in global plastic production, effective waste management strategies are essential. This study utilized Aspen Plus simulation to analyze the pyrolysis process of waste plastics, specifically PE, PS, and LDPE. Simulations were conducted with temperature variations between 350°C to 550°C to determine the optimum conditions. Additionally, the study compared engine performance and emissions using mixtures of plastic pyrolysis oil (PPO), biodiesel from waste cooking oil (WCO), and diesel. Engine performance tests were conducted with variations in engine speed and load for PPO-diesel and PPO-biodiesel mixtures. Simulation results showed that the optimal pyrolysis temperature for the highest PPO yield was 450°C, producing 89% for PS plastic. Pyrolysis at 500°C yielded 85% oil for PE, 83% for LDPE, and 60% for mixed plastics. Engine performance tests indicated that adding PPO to diesel and WCO biodiesel significantly affected engine performance and emissions. A 5% PPO blend in diesel demonstrated better brake thermal efficiency and lower BSFC compared to higher PPO blends.

Discovery of inflammatory response-related proteins as candidate urinary biomarkers of allergic rhinitis

ObjectivesAllergic rhinitis (AR) is a pervasive condition, affecting a significant global population, often with lifelong implications. The objective of this study is to screen for inflammatory-related differential proteins in the urine of AR patients, aiming to analyze the correlation between these identified proteins and the severity of allergic rhinitis. Design and methodsTo diagnose AR, we utilized the sIgE test to measure the allergenic responses. Based on the total IgE levels, patients were segregated into two categories: AR1 (IgE>125IU/mL) and AR2 (IgE≤125IU/mL). The differential proteins related to inflammation in the urine of patients were screened using TMT labeling combined with LC–MS/MS. Subsequently, these proteins were validated through PRM-based proteomics quantification. ResultsWe found significant increases in FCGR3A, A1AT, KRT18, and IL18 in the AR group (P<0.001). PRM-based quantification results highlighted considerable differences in the concentrations of these four proteins across varying degrees of allergic rhinitis severity. A biomarker panel comprising FCGR3A, A1AT, KRT18, and IL18 was identified, with an area under the curve (AUC) value of 0.993 for the detection of AR. ConclusionsThis study provides the first comprehensive report of combined TMT labeling LC–MS/MS quantitative proteomics and PRM analysis for discovering urinary biomarkers related to inflammatory responses in AR. These findings may be instrumental in evaluating the severity of allergic rhinitis and further our understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying AR.

Neutrophil percentage-to-albumin ratio is associated with cognitive function in adults aged over 60 years: An analysis of data from the NHANES 2011-2014.

The aging global population is increasing the attention to cognitive decline in older individuals. This study sought to examine the potential link between the neutrophil percentage-to-albumin ratio (NPAR) and cognitive function. We analyzed data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2011-2014 using multivariate logistic regression and smooth curve fitting, to investigate the correlation between NPAR and cognitive performance. Restricted cubic spline analysis assessed the linear relationship with high-risk cognitive dysfunction, while piecewise linear regression identified thresholds. Subgroup analyses confirmed the consistency and reliability of our findings. Our study included data from 2759 individuals aged >60 years. NPAR showed a significant correlation with Consortium to Establish a Registry for Alzheimer's Disease (CERAD) word learning score, CERAD delayed recall score, total z-score and a high risk of cognitive dysfunction. Furthermore, there were statistically significant trends in the changes in CERAD word learning, digit symbol substitution test, and CERAD delayed recall scores as the NPAR quartile increased, these trends were inverted U-shaped. When the NPAR exceeded 14.57, there was a positive association with the likelihood of a high risk of cognitive impairment. The link between NPAR and cognitive performance was notably stronger in individuals with moderate body mass index and those aged 73-80 years. A strong link was observed between the NPAR and cognitive function. NPAR may serve as a tool to identify individuals at increased risk of cognitive decline.

A Multi-model Deep Learning Architecture for Diagnosing Multi-class Skin Diseases.

Skin diseases are a significant global public health concern, affecting 21-85% of the world's population, particularly those in low- and middle-income countries. Accurate and timely diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment and improved patient outcomes. This study introduces a novel deep-learning multi-model architecture designed for high-precision skin disease diagnosis. The system employs a five-category Xception model to classify skin lesions into five classes: Atopic Dermatitis, Acne and Rosacea, Skin Cancer, Bullous, and Others. Trained on 25,010 images, the model achieved 95% accuracy and an AUROC of 99.4%. To further enhance accuracy, transfer learning was applied, resulting in specialized models for each class, with strong performance across 40 skin conditions. Specifically, the Acne and Rosacea model achieved an accuracy of 90.0%, with a precision of 90.7%, recall of 90.1%, f1-score of 90.2%, and an AUROC of 99.0%. The Skin Cancer model demonstrated 94.0% accuracy, 94.8% precision, 94.2% recall, 94.1% f1-score, and a 99.5% AUROC. The Atopic Dermatitis model reported 91.8% accuracy, 92.2% precision, 91.8% recall, 91.9% f1-score, and a 98.8% AUROC. Finally, the Bullous model showed 90.0% accuracy, 90.6% precision, 90.0% recall, 90.0% f1-score, and a 98.9% AUROC. This approach surpasses previous studies, offering a more comprehensive diagnostic tool for skin diseases. To facilitate result reproducibility, the training and testing codes for the models utilized in this study are accessible via the GitHub repository ( https://github.com/SaraEl-Metwally/A-Multi-Model-Deep-Learning-for-Diagnosing-Skin-Diseases ).

DETERMINATION OF THE AMOUNT OF ZINC IN PURE LINE MAIZE AND SEASONAL VARIATIONS IN GRAINS AND SILKS GROWN ACROSS NIGERIA.

Approximately, 17 percent of the world's population is at risk of zinc (Zn) deficiency. According to literature maize grains and silks are rich in Zn, and the amount varies reflecting different varieties and ecosystems. The amount of Zn in some pure line maize and seasonal variations in grains and silks grown across Nigeria's six geopolitical and seven vegetation zones were determined using acid digestion, and analysis by Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectrometry (ICP-OES). The amount of Zn in the pure line (22.40 mg kg- 1 to 22.46 mg kg-1) and the open-pollinated (22.39 mg kg-1 to 22.48 mg kg-1) maize grains are within the same range, likewise, the white and yellow maize silks (27.99 mg kg-1 to 28.10 mg kg-1) but are higher than the amount in their respective grains. The Mann-Whitney U test at 0.05 significant level was used to evaluate the seasonal variation of Zn. There is no significant difference between the amount of Zn in the white maize grains, likewise, the white and yellow maize silks grown in the dry and rainy seasons across Nigeria's geopolitical and vegetation zones. Except in the South-East where the amount of Zn in the yellow maize grains is significantly higher in the dry season compared with the rainy season. Potentially, 0.67 kg, 0.54 kg, 0.45 kg, and 0.22 kg of the maize grains, and 0.54 kg, 0.43 kg, 0.36 kg, and 0.18 kg silks are recommended for Zn daily dietary intake for men, females, adolescents, and formula-fed babies, respectively.

Cryo-EM structure of the Mycobacterium smegmatis MmpL5-AcpM complex.

The emergence and spread of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (TB) present enormous challenges to the global public health. The causative agent, Mycobacterium tuberculosis, has now infected more than one-third of the world's population. Here, we report the first structure of the mycobacterial membrane protein large 5 (MmpL5), an essential transporter for iron acquisition, bound with the meromycolate extension acyl carrier protein M (AcpM), indicating a plausible pathway for mycobactin translocation. Our studies will ultimately inform an era in structure-guided drug design to combat TB infection.

Preparation and Characterization of Materials for Low- to Intermediate-Temperature CO2 Adsorption

Global carbon dioxide emissions are rising and the use of fossil fuels in several sectors are the leading causes. As global population and economies continue to grow significantly, the most practical method of lowering such emissions is to capture CO2. Although other technologies are more developed, adsorption is very promising and has attracted much attention. To ensure this technology’s success, it is essential to have suitable CO2 adsorbent materials. In this work, several new hydrotalcites (HTs) with different initial concentrations of ion precursors were prepared for the first time by the co-precipitation method—it was possible to verify that the ion concentrations influence the characteristics of the materials. The prepared HTs were characterized by thermogravimetric analysis (TG), X-Ray diffraction (XRD), surface area measurements and temperature-programmed desorption of CO2 (TPD-CO2) to relate their CO2 capture capacity to their physicochemical properties; the CO2 adsorption equilibrium isotherms were determined at 35 and 300 °C for the prepared samples, as well as for some commercial materials: magnesium oxide, calcium oxide, aluminium oxide and Zeolite 13X. After determining which materials present the best CO2 adsorption capacity, these were submitted to adsorption-desorption cycles to study their stability. The main objective of the work was to prepare and study different CO2 adsorbents for processes that are carried out at low and intermediate temperatures. From the experimental results, it was possible to conclude that the Zeolite 13X showed the best capacity at 35 °C, 3.38 mmol·g−1 (@ pCO2 = 1 bar), and a prepared calcined HT (c-HT2) was the best at 300 °C, 0.97 mmol·g−1 (@ pCO2 = 1 bar). Moreover, it seems there is an optimum initial concentration of the ions’ solutions for the tested HTs, which depends on the final application—c-HT1 showed a better capacity at 35 °C and c-HT2 at 300 °C. From the adsorption-desorption cycles—performed at 35 and 300 °C with the best materials using a magnetic suspension microbalance at 1 bar of CO2 partial pressure —, a working cyclic capacity of 2.69 mmol∙g−1 was achieved by the Zeolite at 35 °C; in turn, c-HT2 showed a working cyclic capacity of 0.79 mmol∙g−1 at 300 °C.

Social, health and lifestyle-related determinants of older adults’ preferences for place of death in South Tyrol, Italy – a cross-sectional survey study

BackgroundAs the global aging population expands, understanding older adults’ preferences for place of death becomes pivotal in ensuring person-centered end-of-life care.ObjectiveThis study aimed to investigate the influence of sociodemographic, health, and lifestyle-related factors on end-of-life care preferences of older adults in South Tyrol, Italy.MethodsEmploying a cross-sectional design, a population-based survey was conducted with a stratified probabilistic sample of adults aged ≥ 75 years in South Tyrol (Autonomous Province of Bolzano/Bozen, Italy). From a randomly selected sample of 3,600 older adults, participants were invited to respond to a questionnaire that included items on older adults’ preferences for place of death and socio-demographic and health- and lifestyle-related factors, including frailty (e.g., PRISMA-7). Descriptive and multinomial logistic regression analyses were performed.ResultsThe majority (55.3%) of the 1,695 older adults (participation rate: 47%) expressed a preference for dying at home and 12.7% indicated a desire for specialized end-of-life care in a healthcare facility. However, 27.9% refrained from disclosing their end-of-life care preferences. The factors influencing these preferences concerning the place of death included age, native language, educational level, living situation, and community. Compared to the preference of dying at own home or home of family or friends, older adults aged ≥ 85 years (OR = 0.57, P = 0.002) and living in an urban area (OR = 0.40, P < 0.001) were less likely to prefer dying at a hospital, palliative care unit, or hospice. Older adults living alone (OR = 1.90, P < 0.001), Italian-speaking (OR = 1.46, P = 0.03), and those with an educational level above high school (OR = 1.69, P = 0.002) were more likely to prefer dying at a hospital, palliative care unit, or hospice.ConclusionsEnd-of-life care preferences among older adults in South Tyrol were associated with socio-demographic, yet not health- and lifestyle-related factors. Recognizing and integrating these preferences is essential for developing, implementing, and evaluating interventions to promote advance care planning and provide effective, patient-centered end-of-life care.