Region Research Articles

Reporting three rare pathogenic variants at the CFTR gene in two unrelated Iranian Azeri children with cystic fibrosis

BackgroundCystic fibrosis (CF) is an autosomal recessive inherited life-threatening disease that causes changes in the electrolyte transport system, leading to high absorption of sodium and water. Disease-causing variants of the CFTR gene are responsible for this disease. In the present study, three rare pathogenic variants were identified in two unrelated Iranian Azeri children with CF.Case presentationOne child affected with CF was found to have two rare variants, c.1545_1546delTA and c.3196C > T, detected through Sanger sequencing of the entire coding region and promoter of the CFTR gene. Another patient was identified as compound heterozygous for the variant c.1545_1546delTA and a rare variant, c.2998delA, which has not been previously reported. The variants were found to be in trans, as both parents were heterozygous for the variants.ConclusionThe rare variant c.1545_1546delTA has been previously reported as a known variant in certain populations, including Azeris in northwest Iran. Our results, along with previous findings, suggest that this variant may be considered a founder mutation in specific geographical regions. The variant c.2998delA has not been previously reported as pathogenic. Following the guidelines of the American College of Genetics and Genomics and considering the proband's symptoms, we classified this variant as pathogenic based on criteria PVS1, PS4, PM3, PP1, and PM2. The identified variants in the CFTR gene as well as the previously reported variants could serve as a basis for future genetic counseling and prenatal diagnosis in Iran.

Energy Security and Women’s Empowerment: A Generalized Method of Moments Approach from a Global Perspective

The importance of energy security is emphasized in Goal 7 of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the 2030 Agenda to guarantee that everyone has affordable, dependable, and contemporary energy access. In addition to transforming human life, whole economies, and even the planet, sustainable energy offers a chance for a better future. The absence of energy security impacts serious health problems, education, and household difficulties. Research on energy security has emphasized various angles worldwide. However, investigations of the impact of energy security on women’s empowerment are still scant. This study thus investigates the relationship between energy security and women’s empowerment (WE) in 167 countries from 2002 to 2021, as well as the influence of urbanization development levels on this nexus. Moreover, this study explores the variation in women’s empowerment between geographical regions by referencing the MENA, OECD, and SAARC countries. A two-step system GMM was used to achieve the objectives of this research. The findings show first that renewable energy availability has a significant effect on WE worldwide. Secondly, in terms of energy security, the variables total availability of natural resource rents and renewable energy both have a positive impact on women’s empowerment in the MENA, while in the OECD and SAARC countries, they have an indirect link with WE. Third, the integrating effect of total natural resource rents with urbanization significantly affects WE in all five models. Fourth, we used access to electricity to represent resource affordability. Unexpectedly, the results show its negative and significant association with WE. Fifth, in terms of energy security, both energy availability and affordability favor WE in OECD countries. Finally, the coefficient of integration of access to electricity and urbanization shows a positive and significant association with WE in the OECD, MENA, and SAARC regions. However, it is noteworthy to mention that access to electricity alone does not influence WE worldwide. Additionally, a series of tests confirm the robustness of the results. This research provides insight into the development and implications of energy security-related women’s empowerment policies.

Analysis and Creation of the Lingnan Cultural Identity Handbook for Product Design

The primary languages used in this region are Cantonese, Hokkienese, and Hakka Dialec, each with distinct dialects and local vocabulary, reflecting the local lifestyle and culture. This study had three main objectives: 1) To Scope on important characteristic of Lingnan identity, 2) To create Identity of Lingnan to products and 3) To complete the design Handbook and product design. The study involved a sample group consisting of experts in Lingnan cultural identity, product designers, and entrepreneurs, and the overall research population included 400 individuals interested in these products. Based on insights from the Handbook for Designing Cultural Products, the study developed the Lingnan cultural identity Handbook for Product Design (e-book). The study utilized an experimental research design and employed interviews and a satisfaction questionnaire as research instruments. This study synthesized, analyzed, and translated the collected data into Lingnan symbols, then compiled descriptive interpretations. The statistical methods used. The research findings revealed prominent elements of Lingnan cultural identity, including Chen Clan Temple, Wo'er House, Manchuria Window, Dragon Boat, Suixi Lion Dance, and Guangdong Opera. The region's geography and history deeply ingrain these cultural elements, showcasing the adaptability and wisdom of the local population. The product design concept focused on the creative process, emphasizing the development of products that meet market demands while considering utility, beauty, and value for product users. The evaluation of the Handbook indicated a high level of overall satisfaction (x̄=3.53). Among the three forms of cultural products, the first had the highest level of overall satisfaction (x̄=4.06), followed by the second with a high level of overall satisfaction (x̄=3.83), and the last with a high level of overall satisfaction (x̄=3.73).

Controversies in our understanding of extreme hyperbilirubinemia in glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase-deficient neonates.

Despite declarations that kernicterus should be a "never-event", the condition continues to occur, glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD)-deficiency being a leading cause. In this paper, we address some controversies regarding the pathophysiology and the potential for extreme hyperbilirubinemia associated with G6PD-deficiency. We present evidence to demonstrate that G6PD-deficiency-associated neonatal hyperbilirubinemia is no longer limited to countries and geographic regions to which the condition was indigenous, but is also encountered in North America and other Western countries with a low inherent G6PD-deficiency frequency. Pathophysiologically, while a diminished bilirubin conjugative component is undoubtedly present, we present evidence that there is a component of increased hemolysis as well, contributing to the extreme, exponential hyperbilirubinemia associated with G6PD-deficiency. Extreme hyperbilirubinemia in G6PD heterozygotes, while less frequent than in male hemizygotes or female deficient homozygotes, has been reported, suggesting previous underestimation of the risks of heterozygosity. Universal neonatal screening for G6PD-deficiency, while not expected to prevent acute, episodic hyperbilirubinemia, should increase awareness, thereby facilitating earlier referral for treatment, prior to the onset of bilirubin encephalopathy. Finally, we speculate as to what the future looks like for babies with G6PD-deficiency, potential therapeutic stratagems, and the effect of G6PD-deficiency on medical conditions beyond the realm of neonatal hyperbilirubinemia. IMPACT STATEMENTS: G6PD-deficiency is encountered in North America and Western countries previously thought to have a low frequency of the condition. Extreme, sudden neonatal hyperbilirubinemia is due, in the main, to increased hemolysis, an independent risk factor for neurotoxicity. Extreme hyperbilirubinemia may follow apparently resolved neonatal hyperbilirubinemia which had been treated by phototherapy. Female G6PD heterozygotes, previously thought to be unaffected clinically by G6PD-deficiency, while at low risk, may, nevertheless, develop extreme hyperbilirubinemia. Universal neonatal G6PD screening should be aimed towards increasing caretaker awareness and facilitating referral for treatment prior to the onset of bilirubin encephalopathy.

8582 THE PREVALENCE OF POLYCYSTIC OVARY SYNDROME IN ADULT WOMEN: THE IMPACT OF GEOGRAPHIC REGION

Abstract Disclosure: M. Amiri: None. S. Hatoum: None. R.P. Buyalos: None. A. Sheidaei: None. R. Azziz: Consulting Fee; Self; Spruce Biosciences, May Health, Core Access Surgical Technologies, Acacia Bio, Fortress Biotech, and Rani Therapeutics. Stock Owner; Self; Martin Imaging. Background: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal disorder that affects women of reproductive age and is associated with various health complications. The reported prevalence of PCOS varies widely. However, variations in PCOS prevalence by geographic region are unclear. Objectives: This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to compare PCOS prevalence in adults across World Health Organization (WHO) regions. Materials and methods: A search of PubMed and Embase was conducted for studies on PCOS prevalence in unselected populations published from inception to July 2023 using various diagnostic criteria. Studies were categorized according to: a) PCOS criteria (NIH 1990 [PCOS phenotypes A&B], AE-PCOS 2006 [PCOS phenotypes A-C], Rotterdam 2003 [PCOS phenotypes A-D], and ‘other/self-reported’ criteria); b) subject assessment type (direct assessment, survey/indirect assessment, or mixed assessment); and c) study quality, assessed using the PCOS Epidemiology and Phenotype (PEP) quality assessment tool. Meta-analyses were performed using fixed-effects or random-effects models depending on the heterogeneity among the studies. Publication bias was assessed using the Egger’s regression test and funnel plots. Subgroup analyses were conducted based on PCOS criteria, assessment types, study quality, and WHO region. Results: Of 6,644 records, 50 studies with including a total of 70,146 adult women (age ≥18 years) were included. The overall pooled prevalence of PCOS was 9.7% (95% CI: 8.25, 11.38) with a pooled PCOS prevalence by criteria of NIH 7.7% (95% CI: 6, 9.83), Rotterdam 11.83% (95% CI: 9.15, 15.17), AE-PCOS 11.48% (95% CI: 7.5, 17.18), and other/self-report 10.05% (95% CI: 6.63, 14.96). High-quality studies reported lower prevalences for Rotterdam and NIH criteria than low-qualities (6.99% vs 10.07% for NIH and 11.07% vs 20.97% for Rotterdam), with all studies using AE-PCOS being high-quality and all studies using other/self-report criteria being low-quality. Among high-quality studies using direct/mixed assessments, PCOS prevalence by NIH was highest in Western Pacific Region (8.19%) and lowest in Europe (6.47%), whereas by Rotterdam, it was highest in Europe (21.30%) and lowest in Western Pacific Region (7.67%). We also observed that highest PCOS prevalence based on AE-PCOS criteria was in Europe (16.09%) and lowest in Western Pacific Region (7.43%). Publication bias was not significant (Egger’s coefficient = 1.2, 95% CI: -1.49, 3.9, p = 0.38), and funnel plot showed a nearly symmetrical distribution of studies around the estimated effect size. Conclusions: This meta-analysis revealed that the reported PCOS prevalence in adults varies widely by WHO geographic region. Study quality, assessment type and diagnostic criteria for PCOS impact the assessment, with low-quality studies overestimating PCOS prevalence. Presentation: 6/2/2024

Modelling the Predictors of Social Media Marketing on Consumer Buying Behavior in Malaysia

Despite the rapid increase in internet and mobile users in Malaysia, the growth of online purchases through social media platforms has not kept pace with this broader digital trend. This study investigates the key predictors that influence consumer buying behavior through social media marketing, with a specific focus on the roles of Perceived Ease of Use (PEOU) and Perceived Usefulness (PU) of these platforms. Employing a quantitative cross-sectional research design, data were collected from 115 respondents in Malaysia who have experience making online purchases via mobile applications. The study also examines variations in consumer experiences based on demographic factors, including age, gender, education level, and geographic region. The findings indicate that both PEOU and PU are significant predictors that shape consumer buying behavior on social media platforms. This research provides valuable insights for marketers seeking to enhance the effectiveness of their social media marketing strategies. By better understanding the factors driving consumer behavior in the Malaysian market, businesses can design more targeted and personalized campaigns for specific consumer segments, ultimately improving their competitive advantage in this digital landscape.

7473 Mortality following Hip Fracture among Black and White Women in a Western US Healthcare System

Abstract Disclosure: J.C. Lo: None. M. Chandra: None. W. Yang: None. U. Ozomaro: None. M.D. Sharma: None. J.A. Darbinian: None. C. Lee: None. A.L. Wheeler: None. M.M. Khan: None. Background: Prior studies using US Medicare data demonstrate that Black women have higher mortality after hip fracture than White women. However, few studies have examined findings specific to the Western US. We previously found that 1-year mortality after hip fracture (in 2000-2010) was similar among Black and White women in a Western US healthcare system. We now examine 6-month and 1-year mortality in an expanded cohort of Black and White women with hip fracture in the same healthcare system. Methods: This retrospective study includes data from non-Hispanic White and Black women aged ≥65y in a Western US healthcare system who were hospitalized with hip fracture during 2000-2019. The outcome was all-cause mortality, within 6-months and 1-year after hip fracture. Covariates included age at hip fracture, femoral neck vs pertrochanteric (hip) fracture, year of fracture, prior clinical fracture (diagnosed in the prior 5 years), Charlson-Deyo Comorbidity index (CCI based on inpatient/outpatient data in the prior year and during hip fracture hospitalization) and diabetes (diagnosed in the prior 5 years or during hip fracture hospitalization). Modified Poisson regression was used to examine mortality after hip fracture (Black vs White women), adjusting for (a) age, fracture type, year and (b) age, fracture type, year, CCI, prior fracture and diabetes. Results: The cohort included 691 Black women (age 82.9 ± 8.0y; 43.4% age ≥85y) and 20,450 White women (age 82.8 ± 7.7y; 44.2% age ≥85y) with hip fracture in 2000-2019. Black women had a similar proportion with femoral neck fracture (58.2% vs 55.2%) but were more likely to have prior fracture (23.0% vs 33.5%), diabetes (35.2% vs 18.2%), and higher CCI vs White women. For Black vs White women, respectively, group differences in 6-month (18.4% [95% confidence interval 15.7-21.4%] vs 16.4% [15.9-16.9%], p=0.12) and 1-year mortality (23.2% [20.2-26.5%] vs 22.1% [21.4-22.6%], p=0.49) were not significant. In multivariable analyses, the relative risk of death at 1-year for Black (vs White) women was 1.03 [0.90-1.19] adjusting for age, year, fracture type and 0.97 [CI 0.84-1.11] adjusting for age, year, fracture type, CCI, prior fracture, and diabetes. The relative risk of death at 6-months for Black (vs White) women was 1.05 [0.89-1.23] adjusting for covariates. Conclusions: In a Western US healthcare system, differences in 6-month and 1-year mortality post-hip fracture were small and not significant for Black and White women aged ≥65y, after accounting for age and comorbidity burden. However, the number of Black women was small, and data on social factors, frailty, post-fracture morbidity, and other health factors were not available. Nonetheless, these results suggest that racial and ethnic differences in mortality after hip fracture may vary by geographic region. Hip fracture outcomes in larger populations of Black women in the Western US should be examined. Presentation: 6/3/2024

Genomic and phenotypic imprints of microbial domestication on cheese starter cultures

Domestication – the artificial selection of wild species to obtain variants with traits of human interest – was integral to the rise of complex societies. The oversupply of food was probably associated with the formalization of food preservation strategies through microbial fermentation. While considerable literature exists on the antiquity of fermented food, only few eukaryotic microbes have been studied so far for signs of domestication, less is known for bacteria. Here, we tested if cheese starter cultures harbour typical hallmarks of domestication by characterising over 100 community samples and over 100 individual strains isolated from historical and modern traditional Swiss cheese starter cultures. We find that cheese starter cultures have low genetic diversity both at the species and strain-level and maintained stable phenotypic traits. Molecular clock dating further suggests that the evolutionary origin of the bacteria approximately coincided with the first archaeological records of cheese making. Finally, we find evidence for ongoing genome decay and pseudogenization via transposon insertion related to a reduction of their niche breadth. Future work documenting the prevalence of these hallmarks across diverse fermented food systems and geographic regions will be key to unveiling the joint history of humanity with fermented food microbes.

A first insight into seropositivity and risk factors for Brucella spp. and Coxiella burnetii in free-roaming dogs in Ecuador

Brucellosis and Q fever are two bacterial zoonoses caused by Brucella spp. and Coxiella burnetii, respectively. Dogs are reservoirs of these pathogens and play an important role in their spread. In this research, we determined the seroprevalence of antibodies against Brucella spp. and C. burnetii in free-roaming dogs from Ecuador and conducted a statistical analysis based on geographical variables. Serum samples were collected from 397 free-roaming dogs between November 2018 and May 2019 and analyzed with commercial ELISA tests for Brucella spp. and Q fever. An overall seroprevalence of 2.8 % (CI: 95 %, 0.0–6.2 %) and 1.8 % (CI: 95 %, 0.0–5.6 %) was found for Brucella spp. and C. burnetii, respectively. No statistical differences in seroprevalence values were found between geographical regions in Ecuador or between dogs from rural or urban settings, except for the association of C. burnetii infection with the Coastal Region. This is the first study of this kind in Ecuador and points out the need for a One Health approach for control and surveillance of zoonotic diseases like brucellosis and Q fever including feral and stray dogs as reservoirs to spread those pathogens to cattle, humans, or wildlife.

When Chinese mania meets global frenzy: Commodity price bubbles

This paper examines price bubbles in global commodity markets. We find that positive bubbles are more driven by fundamental shocks, while negative bubbles are more influenced by pessimistic market views on prices and the economy. Furthermore, bubble determinants vary across geographic regions. Trader behavior and policy uncertainty play prominent roles in influencing price bubbles in China, while global bubbles are predominantly shaped by rational responses to inventory, growth, and inflation. Finally, only positive bubbles exhibit contagion across regions. Overall, our findings suggest that asset price bubbles arise from traders' behavioral responses to a combination of fundamental, macroeconomic, and idiosyncratic shocks.

Minoritized language accreditation and equating. Some particularities

ABSTRACT Among the specificities associated with the accreditation of linguistic competence in minoritised languages, one of the most distinctive is the characterisation of the target population. In terms of diversity, test-takers come from the same geographical region, and most of them live in contact with the test language; in terms of quantity, there are fewer candidates than those assessed in L2 language around the world. These particularities have some important implications in any score-equating programme, and so on validity. In this paper, which focuses on Basque, we explore the conditions to define an equating design. We start by analysing the hypothesis of group equivalence among the editions of the HABE C1 test, and then compare some equating procedures. The research is carried out in two steps. The first (N = 14,981) analyses the sample compositions among test editions with relation to gender, age, place of birth, L1 and language of instruction; the second compares some equating procedures applied to the reading and listening test (N = 4765). The results support the hypothesis of group equivalence, and the equating procedures show total concordance around the cut scores. Some implications of the results are provided.

Perceptual attributes for soundscape assessment: translation into Portuguese

Soundscapes have been a growing tool in managing urban sounds through the ISOs series 12913 parts 1 to 3. The ISO/TS 12913-2: 2018 standard (Acoustics - Soundscape - Part 2: Data collection and reporting requirements) provides technical specifications and protocols, as well as a questionnaire for soundscape characterization with perceptual attributes based on soundscape studies. However, such attributes are provided only in the English language, which raises questions about the applicability and reliability of these attributes in regions where English is not the mother tongue. To address this gap, the Soundscape Attribute Translation Project (SATP), an international collaboration with soundscape researchers was established with the aim of validating the translation of perceptual attributes for soundscape assessment in different languages and geographic regions as a way of disseminating and promoting their widespread use, both in academia and in practice. This article presents the results of the work, realized in Brazil and Portugal, contributing to the translation of the perceptual attributes for soundscape assessments from English into Portuguese language through a cross-cultural study.

Bacterial microbiome and their assembly processing in two sympatric desert rodents (Dipus sagitta and Meriones meridianus) from different geographic sources

Abstract The microbiome of mammals has profound effects on host fitness, but the process, which drives the assembly and shift of mammalian microbiome remains poorly understood. To explore the patterns of small mammal microbial communities across host species and geographical sites and measure the relative contributions of different processes in driving assembly patterns, 2 sympatric desert rodent species (Dipus sagitta and Meriones meridianus) were sampled from 2 geographically distant regions, which differed in the environment, followed by 16S rRNA gene sequencing. The microbiomes differed significantly between D. sagitta and M. meridianus, and linear mixed modeling (LMM) analysis revealed that microbial diversity was mostly affected by species rather than the environment. For each rodent species, the microbiome diversity and structure differed across geographical regions, with individuals from lower rainfall environments exhibiting greater diversity. The null modeling results suggested dispersal limitation and ecological drift rather than differential selective pressures acting on the microbiome. In addition, each group had a different core genus, suggesting that the taxonomic composition of the microbiome was shaped most strongly by stochastic processes. Our results suggest that variation in the microbiome between hosts, both within and among geographic rodent populations, is driven by bacterial dispersal and ecological drift rather than by differential selective pressures. These results elucidated the diversity patterns and assembly processes of bacterial microbiomes in small desert mammals. Deciphering the processes shaping the assembly of the microbial community is a premise for better understanding how the environment-host-microbe interactions of mammals are established and maintained, particularly in the context of increased environmental disturbances and global changes.

INTEGRATE IIa Phase III Study: Regorafenib for Refractory Advanced Gastric Cancer.

Treatment options for refractory advanced gastric and esophagogastric junction cancer (AGOC) are limited. Regorafenib, an oral multikinase inhibitor, prolonged progression-free survival (PFS) versus placebo in the INTEGRATE I phase II trial. INTEGRATE IIa was designed to examine whether regorafenib improved overall survival (OS). A double-blind placebo-controlled phase III trial compared regorafenib and best supportive care (BSC) versus placebo and BSC for participants with confirmed evaluable metastatic/advanced AGOC who failed ≥two prior therapies on a 2:1 random assignment, stratified by tumor location, geographic region (Asia v rest of world), and prior vascular endothelial growth factor inhibitors. The primary end point was OS. Treatment efficacy on OS was first tested in the pooled INTEGRATE I + INTEGRATE IIa cohort and, if significant, then in the INTEGRATE IIa cohort. Secondary end points were PFS, objective response rate, safety, and quality of life (QoL). INTEGRATE IIa enrolled 251 participants: 157 from Asia and 94 from rest of world and 169 received regorafenib and 82 received placebo. No significant heterogeneity was observed between INTEGRATE I and INTEGRATE IIa studies on OS. Pooled OS analysis hazard ratio (HR) was 0.70 (95% CI, 0.56 to 0.87; P = .001; 361 events). INTEGRATE IIa alone OS HR was 0.68 (95% CI, 0.52 to 0.90; P = .006; 238 events), the median OS was 4.5 months versus 4.0 months, and 12-month survival rates were 19% and 6%, for regorafenib versus placebo, respectively. After a preplanned adjustment for multiplicity, there were no statistically significant differences across regions or other prespecified subgroups. Regorafenib improved PFS (HR, 0.53 [95% CI, 0.40 to 0.70]; P < .0001) and delayed deterioration in global QoL (HR, 0.68 [95% CI, 0.52 to 0.89]; P = .0043). The toxicity profile was consistent with that of previous reports. Regorafenib improves survival compared with placebo in refractory AGOC.

Efficacy and Safety in Dogs Following Administration of an Alphavirus RNA Particle Canine Influenza H3N2 Vaccine.

Canine influenza virus (CIV) H3N2 causes a highly contagious respiratory disease in dogs and has been the source of outbreaks across North America since 2015. An injectable RNA Particle (RP)-CIV H3N2 vaccine has been developed to protect dogs against this disease. To demonstrate efficacy, dogs were randomized into two treatment groups, then vaccinated subcutaneously twice, 21 days apart, with a placebo vaccine (n = 20) or an RP-CIV H3N2 vaccine (n = 20). Three weeks later, dogs were challenged intranasally with virulent CIV H3N2 and observed daily for 10 days for clinical signs of disease. Nasal swabs were also collected daily to evaluate the shedding of the challenge virus. Ten days post-challenge, the dogs were euthanized, and the lungs were examined for consolidation. RP-CIV H3N2 vaccination demonstrated a significant reduction in the duration of clinical signs, duration and amount of virus shed, lung consolidation, and the incidence of suppurative pneumonia. To evaluate safety, dogs from multiple geographic regions were vaccinated subcutaneously, 3-4 weeks apart, with an RP-CIV H3N2 vaccine and observed for adverse events for 14 days after each administration. The RP-CIV H3N2 vaccine was deemed safe, with lethargy being the most reported adverse event at a rate of 1.6%.

The microbiota of moon snail egg collars is shaped by host-specific factors.

Moon snails (Family: Naticidae) lay eggs using a mixture of mucus and sediment to form an egg mass commonly referred to as an egg collar. These egg collars do not appear to experience micro-biofouling or predation, and this observation led us to hypothesize that the egg collars possess a chemically rich microbiota that protect the egg collars from pathogens. Herein, we sought to gain an understanding of the bacterial composition of egg collars laid by a single species of moon snails, Neverita delessertiana, by amplifying and sequencing the 16S rRNA gene from the egg collar and sediment samples collected at four distinct geographical regions in southwest Florida. Relative abundance and non-metric multidimensional scaling plots revealed distinct differences in the bacterial composition between the egg collar and sediment samples. In addition, the egg collars had a lower α-diversity than the sediment, with specific genera being significantly enriched in the egg collars. Analysis of microorganisms consistent across two seasons suggests that Flavobacteriaceae make up a large portion of the core microbiota (36%-58% of 16S sequences). We also investigated the natural product potential of the egg collar microbiota by sequencing a core biosynthetic gene, the adenylation domains (ADs), within the gene clusters of non-ribosomal peptide synthetase (NRPS). AD sequences matched multiple modules within known NRPS gene clusters, suggesting that these compounds might be produced within the egg collar system. This study lays the foundation for future studies into the ecological role of the moon snail egg collar microbiota.IMPORTANCEAnimals commonly partner with microorganisms to accomplish essential tasks, including chemically defending the animal host from predation and/or infections. Understanding animal-microbe partnerships and the molecules used by the microbe to defend the animals from pathogens or predation has the potential to lead to new pharmaceutical agents. However, very few of these systems have been investigated. A particularly interesting system is nutrient-rich marine egg collars, which often lack visible protections, and are hypothesized to harbor beneficial microbes that protect the eggs. In this study, we gained an understanding of the bacterial strains that form the core microbiota of moon snail egg collars and gained a preliminary understanding of their natural product potential. This work lays the foundation for future work to understand the ecological role of the core microbiota and to study the molecules involved in chemically defending the moon snail eggs.

Clinico-epidemiological profile of dermatology patients: a one-year study at a newly established tertiary care centre in India

Background: Dermatology is predominantly an outpatient specialty focused on the diagnosis and treatment of dermatoses affecting the skin. We conducted a study on the demographic and clinical characteristics of patients attending the outpatient clinic to better understand the clinico-epidemiological profile and to predict morbidity patterns within the specific geographical region. Methods: A retrospective study was conducted over the past year, encompassing all patients who visited the outpatient dermatology clinic at AIIMS, Raebareli. The study systematically documented a range of dermatoses, including disorders affecting the skin, hair, and nails. Results: A total of 4,188 patients were included in the study, comprising 2,681 (64%) adults, 978 (23.4%) geriatric patients, and 529 (12.6%) pediatric patients. Among these, 1,311 patients primarily suffered from infections, followed by 752 patients with dermatitis. Of those with infections, 1,024 (78%) were diagnosed with fungal infections, while scabies was observed in 126 patients (9.6%). In the adult group, 756 (28.2%) patients had infections, while 429 (16%) patients were affected by dermatitis. Similar patterns were observed in both the geriatric and pediatric groups, with infections being the most prevalent, affecting 214 and 341 patients, respectively. Conclusions: Based on the findings of this study, it can be concluded that infections, particularly fungal infections, are the most prevalent dermatological conditions across all age groups in the population studied. Dermatitis also emerged as a significant concern, particularly among adult patients. The high prevalence of infectious dermatoses, especially in geriatric and pediatric patients, highlights the need for targeted public health interventions and preventive measures.

Epidemiological Study of Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma and Its Outcomes: Insights from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) Database

Objective: Adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC) is a rare malignant tumor that mainly arises in the head and neck area. We aimed to compare the long-term survival of patients with ACC based on their geographic regions within the United States using the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) registry data. Methods: We queried the SEER database to evaluate the geographic distribution of ACC patients based on inpatient admissions. The states included in the study were divided into four geographical regions (Midwest, Northeast, South, and West) based on the U.S. Census Bureau-designated regions and divisions. Demographic and clinical variables were compared between the groups. Kaplan–Meier curves and Cox regression were used to assess late mortality. Results: A total of 5150 patients were included (4.2% from the Midwest, 17.2% from the Northeast, 22.5% from the South, and 56.1% from the West regions). The median follow-up was 12.3 (95% CI: 11.6–13.1 years). Median overall survival was 11.0 (95% CI: 9.2-NR years), 14.3 (95% CI: 12.4–16.4 years), 11.3 (95% CI: 9.7–14.8 years), and 12.0 (95% CI: 11.3–13.0 years) for Midwest, Northeast, South, and West regions, respectively. In multivariable analysis, older age, male sex, thoracic cancer, the presence of regional and distal disease, receiving chemotherapy, not undergoing surgical resection, and being treated in the West vs. Northeast region were found to be independent predictors of poor survival. We identified a significant survival difference between the different regions, with the West exhibiting the worst survival compared to the Northeast region. Conclusions: In addition to the well-known predictors of late mortality in ACC (tumor location, stage, and treatment modalities), our study identified a lack of social support (being unmarried) and geographic location (West region) as independent predictors of late mortality in multivariable analysis. Further research is needed to explore the causal relationships.

Individual variation in Macrovipera lebetinus obtusa (blunt-nosed viper) venom from a limited area in Southeastern Anatolia (Türkiye)

Intraspecific variation in snake venom composition has been the subject of many studies, revealing the differences in venom proteomes according to age, diet, sex, and geographic region. Previous research on M. lebetinus venom mainly focused on protein purification, proteomic characterization, and biological activities. Although venom proteomes of its subspecies from different geographical areas were compared, it is a widespread species and there is limited knowledge regarding the individual venom variation of M. lebetinus in the same area. In this study, individual variation in M. lebetinus obtusa venom was investigated in terms of protein profiles, protease, phospholipase A2, ʟ-amino acid oxidase, hyaluronidase and phosphodiesterase, and hemolytic activities based on nine individuals collected in the province of Şanlıurfa (southeastern Türkiye). HPLC analysis indicated more striking differences compared to SDS-PAGE. Phosphodiesterase activity varied most between the individuals, followed by hyaluronidase and phospholipase A2. Hemolytic activity did not show significant alteration based on the blood agar method. The results of this initial study revealed that M. lebetinus venom shows variation between the individuals inhabiting the same habitat, which should be taken into account in the development of antivenoms and the clinical assessment of the bite cases.

A 10-year trend in cannabis potency (2013-2022) in different geographical regions of the United States of America.

The prevalence of cannabis as the most commonly used illicit substance in the United States and around the globe is well-documented. Studies have highlighted a noticeable uptrend in the potency of cannabis in the United states. This report examines the concentration of cannabinoids in illicit cannabis samples seized by the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) over the last 10 years (2013-2022). Samples received during the course of study (2013-2022) were categorized based on the geographical region where collected, as Western Region, Midwest Region, Northeast Region, South East Region, Southern Region as well as Alaska and Hawaii. These samples were processed for analysis using a validated gas chromatography with flame ionization detector method. The data showed that the cannabinoids profile of all high Δ9-THC cannabis samples, regardless of the state or region from which the samples are seized or the state from which the sample is produced under a state medical marijuana program, is basically the same with the major cannabinoid being Δ9-THC (>10% for most samples) and all other cannabinoids with less than 0.5%, with the exception of CBG (<1%) and CBN (<1%). Overall, it appears the cannabinoids profile is controlled by the genetics of the plant and is not affected much by the geographical location in which the plants are cultivated.