Southeast Asian Countries Research Articles

Exploring distribution and genomic diversity of begomoviruses associated with yellow mosaic disease of legume crops from India, highlighting the dominance of mungbean yellow mosaic India virus.

Yellow mosaic disease (YMD) caused by several begomoviruses is one of the major constraints of over a dozen leguminous crops worldwide, particularly in Asian and Southeast Asian countries. The present study aimed to investigate the distribution, diversity and prevalence of begomoviruses associated with YMD in leguminous hosts in five agro-climatic zones of India, to assess the extent of their geographical presence and develop location and crop-specific distribution maps. One hundred and seventy-four leguminous plant samples were tested from 32 locations in India to detect YMD-causing viruses. Additionally, publicly available data were incorporated into this study to provide a comprehensive overview of their distribution in India. This resulted in 581 reports on the DNA-A component representing 119 locations, which were also utilized to depict the distribution of YMD-causing viruses on a map of India. In this study, 117 full-length DNA-A and 103 DNA-B components were successfully characterized, representing the detected mungbean yellow mosaic India virus (MYMIV), mungbean yellow mosaic virus (MYMV), and horsegram yellow mosaic virus in the collected samples. Phylogenetic analysis of isolates of these species showed no differentiation based on location in India. Diversity indices revealed the abundance (55.9%) and dominance (0.56) of MYMIV across 119 locations. These findings hold significant implications for legume researchers, offering insights into disease prevalence and geographic distribution. Furthermore, the distribution of YMD-causing viruses in different agro-climatic zones will help researchers in developing zone-specific YMD-resistant cultivars of the legume crops and would facilitate effective disease management options.

Twenty-five years of Nipah outbreaks in Southeast Asia: A persistent threat to global health

ObjectivesNipah virus (NiV), a bat-borne zoonotic pathogen, poses persistent threats to global public health due to severe clinical manifestation and high case fatality rate (CFR). A critical examination of NiV outbreaks is essential for refining strategies and mitigating the impact of future infections. In this study, we provide a concise update on global NiV outbreaks that occurred during the past 25 years. MethodsIn this geospatial study, we conducted an in-depth examination of the epidemiological characteristics of human NiV cases and deaths from 1998 to 2024 through multiple analyses of public data and official reports. ResultsNiV emerged in 1998 in Malaysia during an outbreak among pig farmers. Since then, NiV outbreaks have been documented in five countries of South and Southeast Asia (Bangladesh, India, Malaysia, Philippines, and Singapore). As of May 2024, there have been 754 confirmed human NiV cases with 435 deaths (CFR: 58%) reported in these five countries. Bangladesh records the highest incidence (341 cases and 241 deaths; CFR: 71%) followed by Malaysia (283 cases and 109 deaths; CFR: 39%), India (102 cases and 74 deaths; CFR: 73%), the Philippines (17 cases and nine deaths; CFR: 53%), and Singapore (11 cases and one death; CFR: 9%). ConclusionsThe clinical outcomes of NiV have been underscoring constant global public health threats as no effective therapies and vaccines are available. Strong global understandings, with an eye on developing vaccines and therapeutics, are required to minimize clinical outcomes and future threats of NiV.

Dari Forum ke Kampus Pengaruh ASEAN Tourism Forum dalam Mengembangkan Pendidikan Pariwisata di Sekolah Tinggi Pariwisata Ambarrukmo Yogyakarta

The ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF) is a strategic platform for Southeast Asian countries to collaborate in developing the tourism industry. This study aims to explore how ATF influences the development of tourism education at the Ambarrukmo Tourism College in Yogyakarta. This study uses a qualitative approach with a case study method, involving interviews with institutional managers, lecturers, and students, as well as analysis of related documents. The results of the study indicate that ATF has a positive impact through several aspects: first, improving the curriculum to be more relevant to the trends and needs of the regional tourism industry; second, improving the capabilities of lecturers through training and workshops held in the ATF series; third, opening up opportunities for international cooperation that expand academic and practical networks for the institution. These findings indicate that participation in ATF contributes significantly to the development of the quality of tourism education at STP Ambarukmo, connecting theory with practice and preparing students to face global challenges in the tourism industry. This study recommends increasing active participation in similar forums to take advantage of more learning and collaboration opportunities.

Addressing residue and resistance in food animals: a policy imperative in Southeast Asia

SummaryResidue and resistance in food animals pose significant challenges to Southeast Asia's public health, animal welfare, agricultural productivity, and sustainability. This article emphasises the need for policy interventions to address these issues effectively. Residue, the presence of harmful substances in animal products, is a concern due to the misuse of veterinary drugs and pesticides. Robust surveillance programs, risk assessment, and enforcement of maximum residue limits are crucial to ensure food safety. Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is another critical challenge in the region, driven by intensive animal production systems and disproportionate antimicrobial use. Responsible antimicrobial use, surveillance systems, and alternative production practices like vaccination, enhanced animal husbandry, and improved biosecurity a re essential to combat the menace. Addressing residue and resistance requires a comprehensive mindset and policy approach, including strengthening regulatory frameworks and inter‐agency collaboration, including a One Health approach. Governments, farms, veterinarians, and other stakeholders must work together to develop and enforce effective policies. Education and awareness campaigns can promote responsible practices throughout the food‐animal production chain. By prioritising the reduction of residue and resistance, Southeast Asian countries can safeguard public health, ensure sustainable agriculture, and contribute to global efforts in tackling AMR. Policymakers supported by academia, industry, and other stakeholders play a crucial role in effectively shaping and implementing policies to address these challenges.

Eurycomanone inhibits osteosarcoma growth and metastasis by suppressing GRP78 expression

Ethnopharmacological relevanceOsteosarcoma (OS) is characterized by rapid growth and frequent pulmonary metastasis. Eurycoma longifolia Jack, a flowering plant primarily found in Southeast Asian countries, is commonly used in traditional herbal medicine. Its root extract is mainly used for against cancer, malaria, parasites and other conditions. The active compound in its root extract, eurycomanone (EUR), has been proven to inhibit lung and liver cancer proliferation. Aim of the studyOur research aimed to investigate the inhibitory effect and underlying molecular mechanism of EUR on OS growth and metastasis. Materials and methodsIn vitro experiments: western blotting (WB) screened 41 compounds that inhibited GRP78 expression and evaluated the protein levels of GRP78, PARP, cleaved-PARP, MMP2, and MMP9. Cell proliferation was evaluated using CCK-8, EdU, colony formation assay, and cell apoptosis was assessed by flow cytometry. Transwell, wound healing, and tube formation assays were performed to determine the effect of EUR on tumor invasion, migration, and angiogenesis, respectively. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain (qRT-PCR) and dual-luciferase activity assays detected GRP78 mRNA stability and transcription levels post-EUR and thapsigargin treatment. RNA-Seq identified signaling pathways inhibited by EUR. In vivo experiments: effects of EUR in mice were evaluated by H&E staining to detect lung metastasis and potential toxic effects in tissues. Immunohistochemical (IHC) staining detected the expression of Ki-67, CD31, and cleaved caspase-3 in tumors. ResultsGRP78 is highly expressed in OS and correlated with poor prognosis. In vitro, eurycomanone (EUR) significantly downregulated GRP78 expression, inhibited cell proliferation, migration, invasion, tube formation, and induced apoptosis. Moreover, it enhanced trichostatin A (TSA) sensitivity and exhibited inhibitory effects on other cancer types. Mechanistically, EUR decreased GRP78 mRNA stability and transcription. In vivo, EUR inhibited proliferation and invasion in tibial and PDX models. ConclusionsOur study demonstrated that EUR inhibits the growth and metastasis of OS by reducing GRP78 mRNA stability and inhibiting its transcription, which offers a novel approach for clinical treatment of OS.

Status of Coconut Farmer-Marketers: A Review Towards Sustainable Production Options

Coconut is one of the Philippines most significant crops, with the country ranking second largest producer of coconuts among Southeast Asian countries. However, quality of nuts produced dropped and competitive performance on the global scale was low. This study determined the production capability and challenges encountered by coconut farmer-marketers in the province of Capiz to provide insights into sustainable production options. This was a descriptive-correlational study, which utilized a validated and reliability tested researcher-made survey questionnaire translated to local dialect. The 382 respondents consisted of the members of the coconut farming associations in the province of Capiz. The data gathered were processed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences, employing tools such as frequency, percentage, mean, t-test, Analysis of Variance and Pearson r. The results revealed that the coconut farmer marketers were capable of producing coconuts but encountered moderate levels of challenges. Differences were found in age, estimated monthly household income, and number of years as coconut farmer-marketers, and high to very high relationships were found between level of challenges encountered and production capability.

Does Income Tax Competition Remain Relevant In Attracting FDI? The Case of ASEAN Countries

This study evaluates the impact of corporate income tax on foreign direct investment (FDI) in 6 Southeast Asian countries from 1999 to 2022, under the context of the preparation for the Global minimum tax application in many countries in and outside the region. Using classical panel data models (Fixed Effects and Random Effects model), the findings show no significant impact of corporate income tax on FDI inflows to ASEAN nations. Observing the effects of other factors on foreign investments, the study discovers the significant role of infrastructure in attracting FDI for the entire sample. Additionally, we find significant positive impacts of trade openness and significant negative impacts of political stability on FDI inflows for the developing nations in the area. Interestingly, we find positive relationships between economic shocks and FDI and the region's quick recovery of foreign investment flows. Based on the results, we provide several valuable academic and policy suggestions.

MicroRNA profiling of exosomes derived from plasma and their potential as biomarkers for Opisthorchis viverrini-associated cholangiocarcinoma

Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is a life-threatening disease that impacts patients worldwide. In Southeast Asian countries, the liver fluke Opisthorchis viverrini plays a major role in inducing carcinogenesis of the bile ducts. Due to its asymptomatic nature, O. viverrini infections are rarely treated, consequently leading to the development of advanced stages of CCA before diagnosis. Despite the current use of exosomal microRNAs (miRNA) as diagnostic biomarkers for the early detection of many types of cancer, the applications for miRNA remain limited with CCA. Circulating exosomes, membranous vesicles essential for intercellular communication, were found to contain unique miRNA. In this study, we conducted next-generation sequencing (Ion Torrent PGM) and bioinformatics to characterize and compare the contents of exosomal miRNA derived from the plasma of CCA patients, O. viverrini-infected patients, and healthy individuals, as well as to identify and validate key molecules as markers for screening the diagnosis of CCA and O. viverrini infection. The obtained results showed the success of using NGS technology in discovering exosomal miRNAs, specifically miR-194–5p and miR-192–5p, both of which were upregulated in the O. viverrini-infected group. Interestingly, miR-192–5p was upregulated while miR-194–5p was downregulated in CCA, suggesting their potential use as biomarkers for screening CCA and O. viverrini infection, especially in O. viverrini-endemic areas.

ASEAN Four’s middle income trap dilemma: evidence of the middle technology trap

In Southeast Asia, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia and the Philippines are defined by the World Bank as countries that failed to overcome the "middle income trap". The four Southeast Asian countries (hereinafter referred to as the "ASEAN Four") entered the ranks of middle-income economies in the late 1970s and early 1980s and achieved rapid economic development throughout the 1980s and 1990s. However, since the early 2000s, the competitive advantages of these countries’ labor-intensive industries have started to decline, while the process of industrial transformation and technological improvement has been stagnated due to the lack of innovation resources. With limited R&D input and insufficient indigenous tech innovation, these countries’ manufacturing industry show a trend of "deindustrialization" and the "middle technology trap" phenomenon emerged. As the manufacturing sector failed to generate value-added that promotes economic growth and national income increase, ASEAN Four have so far yet to enter the high-income ranks. Drawing from the cases of ASEAN Four, this paper argues that the "middle technology trap" is a key contributing factor to the “middle income trap,” and countries fallen into the “middle income trap” often experience the "middle technology trap" as a concomitant phenomenon. The paper first introduces the industrialization process of ASEAN Four while analyzes the challenges they faced in industrial structural transformation and technology advancement. It then discusses major reasons that these countries failed to step over both the "middle technology trap" and the “middle income trap”, including limited technology spillovers from FDI, R&D investment shortages and insufficient industrial policies, low-quality education system, deficient intellectual property protection and underdeveloped regional capital markets. The paper concludes with some implications for China and discussion on potential future research on distinctions of the “middle technology trap” phenomenon between upper middle-income and lower middle-income countries.

Impact of Islamicity on the productivity of conventional and Islamic banks in selected southeast Asian countries

This study provides a new understanding of how bank-specific characteristics, the macroeconomic environment, and Islamicity affect the productivity of conventional banks (CBs) and Islamic banks (IBs) in selected Southeast Asian countries. The data of 153 banks, collected between 2015 and 2020, were used, and the influence of the selected factors was investigated by using panel data approaches, as well as the data envelopment analysis-based Malmquist productivity index (DEA-MPI). In the first-stage analysis, bank productivity was measured by using total factor productivity changes (TFPC), and in the second-stage analysis, panel regression analysis was performed, specifically, multiple panel regression analysis, which employed pooled ordinary least squares, a fixed-effects model, and a random-effects model. Parametric and nonparametric (Mann–Whitney and Kruskall–Wallis) tests found that the IBs were more progressive than the CBs. The findings indicated that unlike the IBs, change in the productivity of the CBs was adversely affected by economic Islamicity, as well as legal and governance Islamicity, which indicated that macroeconomic and legal structures that leaned toward Islamic values adversely affected the CBs. Meanwhile, the IBs were likely to be structured in line with such values and thus can mitigate the adverse impact of various factors. Both groups were negatively affected by human and political rights Islamicity, which indicated the use of a setup that could not benefit from Islamic values. This finding lends credence to the arguments in the literature that IBs mirror CBs in practice to remain competitive in their pricing based on market principles. The IBs were found to benefit from international relations Islamicity, which bodes well for the competitiveness of new players against the ancient setup of CBs in the globalized world.

Effort to gender equality in Indonesia, compared on ASEAN

This study aims to determine the extent of gender inequality in human resource development in Indonesia against Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN). This research using secondary data from various relevant sources. There are five dimensions that and are important for measuring gender equality, namely economic participation, economic opportunities, political empowerment, educational attainment, and health and welfare. The assessment was carried out on Indonesia and other countries in Southeast Asia. The results of the study show that Indonesia has the lowest gender development index (GDI) score compared to the average in ASEAN. Then, gender empowerment measure (GEM) Indonesia increased slowly. The most striking gap is in the income dimension, where men’s income far exceeds women’s income. This happens because women work less than men because women are more traditional in domestic roles in Indonesia, where women are prioritized in managing the household. However, for political indicators, there has been an increase in the number of women in parliament, but the target has not yet reached 30 percent of the total number of women in parliament. This situation shows that there is a reduction in the gender gap in the economy and politics. But the number is still too small, it is necessary to increase the equally distributed equivalent percentage (EDEP) for the Economic Participation Index, Parliamentary Representation Index and Income Index.

Cambodia’s Perceptions of China

Cambodia has been portrayed as the most pro-China country in Southeast Asia. We argue that such views oversimplify and overgeneralize Cambodia’s agency and its perception of China. Acknowledging the multifaceted nature of Cambodians’ perceptions of China, we examined these perceptions using data from our extensive survey in the capital city and 11 provinces. We identify several key factors influencing these perceptions, which vary significantly across regions and groups. The data indicate a multifaceted and evolving relationship between Cambodia and China. While Cambodia’s economic growth and Chinese investments have strengthened ties between the two nations, it is crucial to recognize the diversity of perceptions among Cambodians. Policymakers and stakeholders in both Cambodia and China should consider these nuances to foster mutually beneficial partnerships.

Citizen journalism under pressure: The case of Indonesia, Malaysia and the Philippines

Citizen journalism was perceived to be a beacon of hope for democracy throughout countries in Southeast Asia. Nonetheless, recnt developments indicate citizen journalism in the region is being challenged. This research exploits Pierre Bourdieu’s field theory to understand contemporary Southeast Asian citizen journalism. The data was collected by way of semi-structured interviews conducted with thirty people participating in citizen journalism from Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines. The findings demonstrate prevalent economic, political, and cultural pressures in these countries, with political factors exerting the most pressure on the rise of citizen journalism. All three nations experience political pressure via regulations, with the Philippines being subjected to the most pressure due to extrajudicial killings and the intimidation of journalists. Owing to financial constraints, citizen journalism acts as a venue for mainstream media to obtain free content from citizen journalists. Citizen journalists in Indonesia earn significant incomes, although professional journalists covertly adopt their posts. Cultural pressure capital is exhibited when journalists apply ethical journalism to citizen journalists by means of training. Moreover, in the Philippines, citizen journalism is commonly positioned by government-supporting politicians to disinform. This study delivers an extensive and comparative overview, strengthening the case to update field theory.

Combating obesity in Southeast Asia countries: current status and the way forward

Obesity is gaining prominence as a serious public health challenge in the Southeast Asia (SEA) region, with an alarming rate of increase in its prevalence. Countries in the region have shown commitment to curbing the rise of obesity by establishing policies, strategies, and action plans. This paper summarises the current situation and strategies undertaken to combat obesity and related chronic diseases. Although a range of policies and strategies have been developed, including national nutrition action plans, community intervention programmes, fiscal measures, nutrition labelling to promote healthier choices, countries in the region are struggling to make significant progress toward halting the scourge of obesity. It is imperative to strengthen existing health systems with a paradigm shift from a focus on “sick care” to and enhancing nutrition initiatives to support obesity prevention. A comprehensive and coordinated approach is essential, one that emphasises high-level coordination across all levels of government and multiple sectors, and a unified plan rather than fragmented initiatives. For strategies to be effective and sustainable, they must address the fundamental environmental determinants of poor dietary choices and nutritional inequalities. A more holistic approach is clearly needed to improve the entire food environment, which in SEA countries must include the multitude of eating places where large segments of the population “eat out” everyday to meet their energy and nutrient needs. There is a recognised need for more comprehensive measures to promote healthy eating among school children and ensure a supportive environment for lifelong healthy habits. This paper calls for a whole-of-government, whole-of-society approach that combines changes to the fundamental food environment and accompanied by systematic monitoring and surveillance systems to achieve long-lasting health outcomes.

Hijab in the Public Sphere of Muslim Countries in Southeast Asia, Media, State Rules, and Society Opinion

This article aims to explain state regulations and media perspectives in Muslim-majority countries in Southeast Asia regarding the use of the hijab as a religious symbol in public spaces. The influence of globalization has increased diversity in the media landscape in the public sphere, going beyond traditional face-to-face interactions and encompassing the vast realm of the Internet. While Muslim women in secular Western countries face bans on wearing the hijab in public spaces, Muslim women in Muslim-majority countries in Southeast Asia face challenges regarding their style of wearing the hijab in public spaces. This research is qualitative research based on the study of public space and religion. The analysis was carried out in three Southeast Asian countries, namely Indonesia, Malaysia, and Brunei Darussalam, which have Muslim populations with different characteristics. Indonesia and Malaysia are multicultural regions but are dominated by Muslims, and Brunei is a country with a Muslim majority. These three countries have different patterns of managing religion in public spaces. Religious symbols in public spaces reflect the relationship between public space phenomena, the state, and the social context in a region. Social media has expanded the public sphere, providing greater opportunities for religious groups to present their arguments or engage in da'wah (religious outreach).

Microbiome dysbiosis in gallbladder cancer: A systemic review

Gallbladder cancer (GBC) starts in the epithelial tissue (lining of the bile duct and gallbladder). It is a type of aggressive cancer called adenocarcinoma that can spread to other tissues. Among all cases of biliary tract cancer, 50% is from GBC. It is a deadly cancer with a survival rate of 17.6% between 2007 and 2013. GBC is rarely found in the Western world, but it is commonly found in South Asia. In Southeast Asian countries, GBC plays a significant role in cancer-related morbidity and mortality. GBC incidence exhibits marked regional variability, a rare condition in the western population but having a higher frequency in India, especially the Indo-Gangetic belt and some northeast districts excluding Nagaland. This might be attributed to the differences in environmental factors and genetic predisposition modulating carcinogenesis. In GBC, only 10% of cases are identified in the early stages. The low rate of early detection is due to the lack of screening techniques and the aggressive characteristics of the tumor. Various risk factors are associated with GBC, for example, chronic cholecystitis with or without gallstones, obesity, exposure to heavy metals such as lead and arsenic, bacterial infection, congenital biliary cysts, and abnormal pancreaticobiliary duct junction. The risk factors can cause chronic gallbladder mucosa irritation, leading to dysplasia and neoplasia. GBC can form metaplasia to dysplasia in a time span of 5–15 years, then to carcinoma in situ, and finally to invasive cancer. Dysbiosis is responsible for various diseases, including cancer. Multiple triggers can cause dysbiosis, for example, environmental changes, inflammation, infection, medications, dietary changes, or genetic predisposition. Various researches show that Helicobacter pylori, human papillomavirus, Hepatitis B virus, and Hepatitis C virus microbial species can cause cancer. They are the major species responsible for 90% of infection-associated cancers. Various studies demonstrate that the strains of Salmonella and Helicobacter colonize are linked to developing GBC. While the mechanisms linking gut microbiota to GBC are not fully understood, several studies have suggested a potential association. According to a study, certain gut microbiomes, such as Fusobacterium nucleatum, found glut in GBC tissues, compared to adjacent normal tissues. By evaluating gut microbiome dysbiosis, we can see the potential link between gut microbiome dysbiosis and GBC; it may provide valuable insights into the development and progression of GBC. It could lead to the identification of new diagnostic markers and the development of novel therapeutic strategies. In GBC, the evaluation of gut microbiome dysbiosis (involving evaluating the composition, diversity, and functional capacity of the gut microbiome in patients) has emerged as a promising method for understanding the molecular mechanisms and identifying biomarkers for early prevention and detection of GBC and also investigating the possibility of any link between the gut microbiome and host immune response. In conclusion, evaluating gut microbiome dysbiosis in GBC is a promising direction for identifying potential early detection and prevention biomarkers. Additional investigation is therefore needed to determine the role of gut microbiome dysbiosis in the development and progression of GBC and to identify reliable biomarkers for clinical use.

Understanding the Economic Drivers of Climate Change in Southeast Asia: An Econometric Analysis

This study analyses macroeconomic trends in Southeast Asian countries and their implications for climate change, focusing on urbanisation, GDP per capita, energy intensity, FDI, inflation, and trade. Using panel data from 1970 to 2020, we investigate climate change drivers across Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, and Thailand through panel ARDL with PMG and MG analyses, along with Hausman tests. Our results highlight the need for tailored urbanisation policies for sustainability, as the consistent positive correlation between GDPs per capita and emissions, underscores the challenge of decoupling economic growth from emissions. Urbanisation’s varying impact calls for proactive planning, and mixed FDI results suggest nuanced investment approaches aligned with sustainability. Inflation’s negative impact hints at environmental benefits during price increases, necessitating integrated economic and climate policies. The positive relationship between trade openness and emissions emphasises the need for eco-conscious trade agreements to mitigate emissions from industrial activity. Our study stresses the importance of considering macroeconomic heterogeneity in crafting climate policies. Policymakers must adopt multifaceted approaches that prioritise sustainability across economic growth, energy efficiency, technology adoption, and trade to balance development with environmental preservation. This approach enables Southeast Asian countries to contribute effectively to global climate change mitigation.

A conceptual framework for understanding behavioral factors in public transport mode choice in Southeast Asia

Public transportation is vital for meeting the mobility demands of rapidly expanding Southeast Asian countries. To create effective transportation policies and support sustainable urban movement, it is essential to understand the factors driving individual’s choice decisions about transportation modes. This review paper seeks to establish a behavioral theory-based conceptual framework that thoroughly examines and finds the primary influences on individual mode choices within Southeast Asia. We propose a two-stage framework that blends the ‘Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB)’ with the ‘capability, opportunity, and motivation-behavior (COM-B) model’. This synthesis enables the consideration of a broad spectrum of individual-level factors affecting public transport preferences. Ultimately, this review enhances existing knowledge and provides guidance for future research and policy initiatives aimed at fostering sustainable transportation systems across Southeast Asia.

Predicting repurposed drugs targeting the NS3 protease of dengue virus using machine learning-based QSAR, molecular docking, and molecular dynamics simulations

ABSTRACT Dengue fever, prevalent in Southeast Asian countries, currently lacks effective pharmaceutical interventions for virus replication control. This study employs a strategy that combines machine learning (ML)-based quantitative-structure-activity relationship (QSAR), molecular docking, and molecular dynamics simulations to discover potential inhibitors of the NS3 protease of the dengue virus. We used nine molecular fingerprints from PaDEL to extract features from the NS3 protease dataset of dengue virus type 2 in the ChEMBL database. Feature selection was achieved through the low variance threshold, F-Score, and recursive feature elimination (RFE) methods. Our investigation employed three ML models – support vector machine (SVM), random forest (RF), and extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost) – for classifier development. Our SVM model, combined with SVM-RFE, had the best accuracy (0.866) and ROC_AUC (0.964) in the testing set. We identified potent inhibitors on the basis of the optimal classifier probabilities and docking binding affinities. SHAP and LIME analyses highlighted the significant molecular fingerprints (e.g. ExtFP69, ExtFP362, ExtFP576) involved in NS3 protease inhibitory activity. Molecular dynamics simulations indicated that amphotericin B exhibited the highest binding energy of −212 kJ/mol and formed a hydrogen bond with the critical residue Ser196. This approach enhances NS3 protease inhibitor identification and expedites the discovery of dengue therapeutics.

Mental health burden following extreme weather events in South-east Asia: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Exposure to extreme weatherly events potentially develops mental disorders among affected individuals. To synthesize the burden of mental disorders following impact of extreme weather events in South-east Asian (SEA) countries. Proposal was registered in PROSPERO register [CRD42023469788] and reported as per PRISMA-2020 guidelines. Studies reporting prevalence of mental health disorders following extreme weather events from SEA countries during 1990 and 2023 were searched on Embase, PubMed, and Scopus databases. Study quality was assessed using Appraisal tool for Cross-Sectional Studies. Overall pooled prevalence was computed using DerSimonian-Laird method for random-effects model and reported as 95% confidence intervals. On screening 12,046 records, we included 155 studies (2,04,474 participants) for analysis. Overall burden of mental disorders was 35.31% (95%CI: 30.42%-40.21%). In subgroup analysis, studies on cyclones, India, local residents, children and adolescents, rural settings, and community settings reported higher burden of mental disorders. Depression (28.58%; 95%CI: 24.05%-33.1%) and PTSD (29.36%; 95%CI: 26.26%-32.46%) had similar prevalence. Visiting tourists to SEA region experienced fear, fear of recurrence of tsunami, nightmares, and sense of helplessness. Mental health outcomes were relatively higher in studies conducted within 1 year of events. Heterogeneity and possibility of publication bias exists among the reported studies. With the significant rise in episodes of extreme weather events in SEA region over the last three decades, mental disorders are documented in different proportions. We suggest prioritizing well-informed policies to formulate inclusive and resilient strategies on effectively identifying and treating mental health concerns among victims of extreme weather events.