Risk Of Spread Research Articles

Dynamics and triggers of misinformation on vaccines

The Covid-19 pandemic has sparked renewed attention to the risks of online misinformation, emphasizing its impact on individuals’ quality of life through the spread of health-related myths and misconceptions. In this study, we analyze 6 years (2016–2021) of Italian vaccine debate across diverse social media platforms (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube), encompassing all major news sources–both questionable and reliable. We first use the symbolic transfer entropy analysis of news production time-series to dynamically determine which category of sources, questionable or reliable, causally drives the agenda on vaccines. Then, leveraging deep learning models capable to accurately classify vaccine-related content based on the conveyed stance and discussed topic, respectively, we evaluate the focus on various topics by news sources promoting opposing views and compare the resulting user engagement. Our study uncovers misinformation not as a parasite of the news ecosystem that merely opposes the perspectives offered by mainstream media, but as an autonomous force capable of even overwhelming the production of vaccine-related content from the latter. While the pervasiveness of misinformation is evident in the significantly higher engagement of questionable sources compared to reliable ones (up to 11 times higher in median value), our findings underscore the need for consistent and thorough pro-vax coverage to counter this imbalance. This is especially important for sensitive topics, where the risk of misinformation spreading and potentially exacerbating negative attitudes toward vaccines is higher. While reliable sources have successfully promoted vaccine efficacy, reducing anti-vax impact, gaps in pro-vax coverage on vaccine safety led to the highest engagement with anti-vax content.

Asymptomatic carriage and molecular characterization of Staphylococcus aureus in pre-clinical and clinical medical students.

Medical students are exposed to the hospital environment and patients during their studies, increasing the risk of exposure to virulent and antibiotic-resistant isolates of Staphylococcus aureus. The aim of the study is to determine the prevalence of Staphylococcus aureus among medical students who have varying levels of exposure to the hospital environment to provide valuable insights into the risk of colonization and transmission. Nasal swabs and fingerprints were obtained and cultured on a selective medium for staphylococci. The obtained isolates were confirmed as methicillin-sensitive S. aureus (MSSA) or methicillin-resistant (MRSA) using PCR. Antibiotic resistance, the presence of virulence genes including enterotoxin encoding genes, and spa typing were performed. Among pre-clinical students, MSSA was detected on the nose in 45.2% and on the fingerprints in 10.6% of the participants. Among clinical students, MSSA was detected on the nose in 42.0% and on the fingerprints in 25.4%. Only one MRSA isolate was obtained. Genes seg and sei were the most frequently detected in both student groups, with their presence in over 40% of isolates among clinical students. The eta and etb genes were mainly detected from the nose in both student groups. In pre-clinical students, S. aureus carrying eta gene occurred in 6.4% and etb in 8.5%. In clinical students, the occurrence was 5.1% for eta and 8.5% for etb. The tst gene was identified only in the nose and fingerprints of the clinical student group. The most frequently observed resistance was to clindamycin and erythromycin. In total 58 different spa types were identified. High rates of asymptomatic MSSA carriage were observed in both groups of medical students. Detected MSSA strains showed a high degree of genetic variability, with a number of them carrying the virulence and antibiotic resistance genes. Although students do not exhibit increased risk to their patient's, increased hygiene is required in asymptomatic carriage personnel. The overall prevalence of MRSA was low, with a minimal risk of spread.

New perspective of diagnosis and treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma complicated with portal vein tumor thrombosis

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) stands as the predominant type of primary liver cancer, frequently accompanied by portal vein tumor thrombosis (PVTT). PVTT is a harbinger of a grim prognosis, with current treatment modalities falling short of expectations. Delving deeper into the pathophysiology of PVTT, researchers have come to recognize that PVTT and HCC may originate from different clones. Previous clinical investigations have proposed various PVTT classification systems, offering a scientific basis for individualized and precise treatment. The innovative surgical approach of "thrombectomy first" is designed to mitigate the risk of tumor spread, thereby enhancing patient outcomes. Moreover, the multidisciplinary and integrated treatment model, including targeted therapy, immunotherapy and radiotherapy, has demonstrated promising efficacy for the treatment of PVTT. With the continuous progress and optimization of PVTT diagnostic technology, classification systems and precision treatment strategies, the prospects for long-term survival in HCC patients with PVTT are poised to see a significant uplift.

Risk of intrafascicular spread after deliberate exvivo intraneural injections of brachial plexus nerve roots.

We investigated the intraneural spread of injected fluid in brachial plexus nerve roots, examining the potentialfor intrafascicular spread and identifying influencing factors. Twelve deliberate ultrasound-guided intraneural injections were performed at the ventral rami of the brachial plexus nerve roots at their exits from the neuroforamina in six fresh, unembalmed, cryopreserved human cadavers.A 22-G, 30-degree bevel echogenic regional anaesthesia needle was used. Each injection contained 1 ml of heparinised erythrocytes as a marker. Nerve swelling observed on ultrasound images confirmed intraneural injection. Intraneural spread was observed in 12 ventral rami of the six brachial plexi: C5 (1), C6 (3), C7 (5), C8 (2), and T1 (1). Among these, intrafascicular spread was detected in eight cases, six in monofascicular roots and two in bifascicular roots, though none in roots with three or more fascicles. The fascicle diameters in these cases (2.1-3.8 mm) were at least twice the diameter of the needle orifice, measured at 0.9 mm, which was entirely inside the fascicles. In the four cases with intraneural but without intrafascicular spread, the fascicle diameters were about two times the diameter of the needle orifice in three instances, but the entire needle orifice was not always inside a fascicle. In contrast with multifascicular peripheral nerves, intrafascicular spread was possible after deliberate intraneural injections near the neuroforaminal canal exit of the brachial plexus nerve roots in several monofascicular or bifascicular ventral rami if the fascicle diameter was more than twice the needle opening length and the entire opening was inside the fascicle.

The magnitude of legal wildlife trade and implications for species survival

The unsustainable use of wildlife is a primary driver of global biodiversity loss. No comprehensive global dataset exists on what species are in trade, their geographic origins, and trade's ultimate impacts, which limits our ability to sustainably manage trade. The United States is one of the world's largest importers of wildlife, with trade data compiled in the US Law Enforcement Management Information System (LEMIS). The LEMIS provides the most comprehensive publicly accessible wildlife trade database of non-the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) listed species. In total, 21,097 species and over 2.85 billion individuals were traded over the past 22 y (2000-2022). When LEMIS data are combined with CITES records, the United States imported over 29,445 wild species, including over 50% of all globally described species in some taxonomic groups. For most taxa, around half of the individuals are declared as sourced from the wild. Although the LEMIS provides the only means to assess trade volumes for many taxa, without any associated data on most wild populations, it is impossible to assess the impact on biodiversity, sustainability of trade, or any potential risk of pest or pathogen spread. These insights underscore the considerable underestimation of trade and the urgent need for other countries to adopt similar mechanisms to accurately record trade.

Knowledge, attitude and practice among healthcare professionals regarding the use of personal protective equipment at tertiary care hospitals in Peshawar

Background: Personal protective equipment is designed to safeguard healthcare workers and patients from potential risks during healthcare activities. The proper utilization of PPE serves as a crucial strategy for mitigating the transmission of infections within healthcare settings, thereby minimizing the risk of both healthcare-associated infections and community spread. In this study we tried to explore and assess the knowledge, attitude and practice of healthcare professionals regarding use of Personal protective equipment (PPE). Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at Northwest General Hospital (a private sector tertiary healthcare hospital) and Hayatabad Medical Complex (a public sector tertiary care hospital) from March to August 2023. Data was collected from 260 healthcare workers i.e. Doctors and Nurses from both institutions through a preformed questionnaire containing a total of 27 questions. Results: There was a slight positive correlation between increasing years of practice and knowledge regarding PPE (Pearson correlation = 0.017). There was a slight positive correlation between increasing years of practice and attitude (Pearson correlation = 0.035). There was a positive correlation between increasing years of practice and practice of PPE (Pearson correlation=0.147), and there was also a significant association (0.018) between increasing years of practice and practice of PPE Conclusion: Study shows that the healthcare professionals have good knowledge and attitude regarding use of PPE, but there are still gaps in practicing PPE.

Achievement of one health multi-sectoral collaboration in containment of Rift Valley Fever outbreak, Sudan, Red Sea State 2019.

Rift Valley Fever is endemic in Sudan, with a notable outbreak declared in 2019, affecting multiple states. In this study, we examine the Red Sea State, Sudan's experience in applying the One Health approach, to contain Red-Sea RVF outbreak. A retrospective analysis of national and sub-national data and a review of literature were conducted to assess the application of One Health response and to derive lessons learned. The analysis revealed a total of 576 human cases and two deaths, with a case fatality rate of 0.35%, from 25 September 2019 to 25 January 2020. Most cases (99%) were from the Red Sea and River Nile States, and only six sporadic cases were from other five states. The Red Sea State reported 322 human and 74 animal cases, including 74 abortions and 12 animal deaths. Triggers and risk factors include floods, uncontrolled movement of animal, close contact with animals, poor disposal, and unsafe burial practices for animals. One Health approach was utilized all through the defeat of outbreak. A multi-sectoral response plan was implemented, leading to the declaration of the end of the outbreak in 2020 which was reviewed and lessons were derived. One Health approach provided a coordinated action between health, veterinary, and environmental authorities at national and subnational levels. Synergistic efforts have minimized risk of RVF spreading among human and animal. The experience was leveraged to strengthen response approaches for zoonotic diseases. Structural and capacity gaps and financial constraints were identified as implementation challenges.

A Spatial Multi Criteria Decision Analysis (SMCDA) to map the risk of avian influenza in Lazio and Toscana (central Italy).

Avian influenza (AI) is a global concern, affecting wild and domestic bird populations worldwide. Environmental conditions facilitating the presence of wild birds and a consistent domestic bird population contribute to the introduction and spread of AI within a territory. This study focuses on the identification of major risk areas for AI in the Lazio and Toscana Regions of central Italy using Spatial Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis (SMCDA). Through the integration of eleven risk factors regarding domestic bird farms and facilities, wild birds density, water bodies, and roads network, a suitability map for AI introduction and spread was generated. The findings reveal that approximately 30% of Lazio and 20% of Toscana are at high risk for AI introduction and spread. Notably, the implementation of rigorous biosecurity measures in intensive poultry industries has significantly prevented the occurrence of AI outbreaks, even in areas considered at risk. The study emphasizes the importance of informed decision-making in AI risk management, highlighting the potential applications of the SMCDA in prioritizing surveillance efforts and planning control programs. Furthermore, it underscores the need for continuous data updating and comprehensive preventive strategies to address the complex dynamics of AI transmission and safeguard both poultry and human health.

THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN BANKING RISKS UNDER THE CRISIS: EMPIRICAL ASSESSMENT POST-SOVIET COUNTRIES DATA

The study aims to substantiate the mutual influence of banking risks during the financial crisis by the empirical assessment of data from post-Soviet countries.Empirical substantiation of the mechanism of mutual banking risks within the crisis periods was based on a consecutive verification of the statistical significance of regression models. Firstly, the influence of foreign exchange risk on credit risk and liquidity risk is determined. Secondly, the causality between liquidity risk and credit risk is checked. Next, the impact of foreign exchange, credit and liquidity risks on interest rate risk is evaluated. As a result, the influence of the specified banking risks on solvency is determined, which is evaluated in this study by the indicator of equity capital adequacy.The results of the analysis have proved that in the post-Soviet economies (except the Baltic countries), foreign exchange risk caused an increase in credit risk and did not have a statistically significant effect on liquidity risk. An increase in credit risk caused an increase in banking liquidity, which revealed the effect of replacing income assets with liquid ones during the crisis. The level of liquidity affects the interest rate risk (spread level); in Ukraine, the level of the spread is also negatively affected by credit risk. The level of solvency of banks is determined by their liquidity. In post-Soviet developing countries, the level of solvency is negatively affected by credit risk.The economic literature pays the main attention to the formalization of relationships between credit and interest risks, between credit risk and liquidity risk. In this aspect, we expanded the object of scientific research on banking risks, as we considered the empirical relationships between the main types of banking risks.The obtained empirical results can be useful for regulatory authorities when strategizing micro- and macro-prudential policy instruments.

Prevalence of Antibiotic Resistance Genes in Differently Processed Smoothies and Fresh Produce from Austria.

Plant-derived foods are potential vehicles for microbial antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs), which can be transferred to the human microbiome if consumed raw or minimally processed. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and the amount of clinically relevant ARGs and mobile genetic elements (MGEs) in differently processed smoothies (freshly prepared, cold-pressed, pasteurized and high-pressure processed) and fresh produce samples (organically and conventionally cultivated) to assess potential health hazards associated with their consumption. The MGE ISPps and the class 1 integron-integrase gene intI1 were detected by probe-based qPCR in concentrations up to 104 copies/mL in all smoothies, lettuce, carrots and a single tomato sample. The highest total (2.2 × 105 copies/mL) and the most diverse ARG and MGE loads (16/26 targets) were observed in freshly prepared and the lowest prevalences (5/26) and concentrations (4.1 × 103 copies/mL) in high-pressure-processed (HPP) smoothies. BlaCTX-M-1-15 (1.2 × 105 c/mL) and strB (6.3 × 104 c/mL) were the most abundant, and qacEΔ1 (95%), blaTEM1 (85%), ermB and sul1 (75%, each) were the most prevalent ARGs. QnrS, vanA, sat-4, blaKPC, blaNDM-1 and blaOXA-10 were never detected. HPP treatment reduced the microbial loads by ca. 5 logs, also destroying extracellular DNA potentially encoding ARGs that could otherwise be transferred by bacterial transformation. The bacterial microbiome, potential pathogens, bacterial ARG carriers and competent bacteria able to take up ARGs were identified by Illumina 16S rRNA gene sequencing. To reduce the risk of AMR spread from smoothies, our data endorse the application of DNA-disintegrating processing techniques such as HPP.

Health-seeking behaviors during an outbreak of acute conjunctivitis in Central India.

To report the health-seeking behaviors of individuals with acute viral conjunctivitis during an outbreak. A cross-sectional survey was carried out in the Raipur district of Chhattisgarh after an outbreak of acute conjunctivitis in July-August 2023. The treatment choices were pharmacies (51.4%), ophthalmologists (21.1%), quacks (non-qualified doctors) (6.8%), general practitioners (1.6%), home remedies (5.2%), and no treatment (13.9%). Treatment preferences were influenced by place of residence (P < 0.001), occupation (P = 0.002), socioeconomic category (P < 0.001), and highest level of education of male (P < 0.001) and female (P < 0.001) members within the household. The overall expenditure was higher when patients sought treatment from quacks (INR 427.27 ± 202.21), followed by ophthalmologists (INR 374.57 ± 251.31) and pharmacies (INR 201.39 ± 102.65) (P < 0.001). Individuals aged 21-40 years (odds ratio [OR]: 0.24, 95% CI: 0.05-1.03, P = 0.055) and those from villages (OR: 0.16, 95% CI: 0.07-0.32, P < 0.001) were less likely to use prophylaxis. Individuals from families with high level of education of male members (OR: 2.70, 95% CI: 1.08-7.20, P = 0.039) or large family sizes (OR: 6.27, 95% CI: 2.42-19.09, P = 0.039) were more likely to use prophylaxis. The use of separate items of daily use reduced the risk of spread of conjunctivitis (OR: 0.24; 95% CI: 0.06-0.35, P = 0.035). Several insights into health-seeking behaviors among individuals with conjunctivitis during an outbreak were identified in this study, which can aid public health interventions during future outbreaks.

Seroepidemiology for Orthorubulavirus suis in Mexican Pigs by Development of an Indirect ELISA Based on a Recombinant NP Protein.

Orthorubulavirus suis (LPMV) is the etiologic agent of blue eye disease (BED), which affects pigs of all ages, and it has been endemic in central Mexico since the 1980s. To date, no disease control program has been established. Therefore, there is a need for a serological diagnostic method with high sensitivity and specificity. In this study, the recombinant protein NP of LPMV was produced in the E. coli BL21 system and then purified using affinity chromatography. The purified protein was used to coat plates for an indirect ELISA assay (iELISA). To determine the sensitivity and specificity of the test, a 2 × 2 contingency table was constructed using positive and negative control sera. The specificity and sensitivity levels were 98.1% and 98.7%, respectively. According to our findings, 45% of serum samples (378/839) were positive, with seropositivity percentages in the analyzed states ranging from 72.5% to 6%. To confirm the presence of antibodies, the indirect immunofluorescence technique was applied to iELISA-positive serum samples. In this study, antibodies against the LPMV nucleoprotein were detected, indicating that the virus or defective particles may be circulating in Mexican pigs and highlighting the risk of LPMV spreading to disease-free areas.

Development of True Shallot Seed Technology as an Effort to Increase Red Onion (Allium Cepa L.) Production in Galung Lombok Village, Polewali Mandar, West Sulawesi

This community service aims to improve the capacity of shallot farmers in Galung Village, Lombok, Polewali Mandar, in implementing True Shallot Seed (TSS) technology as an effort to increase shallot (Allium cepa L.) production. The use of TSS is an innovation that can increase harvest yields and reduce the risk of disease spread, which is often carried by conventional bulbs. The activity method includes focus group discussions (FGD) to understand participant readiness, preparation of extension materials, and implementation of extension that includes an introduction to the TSS method and comparison with traditional cultivation techniques. Evaluation was carried out with a pre-test and post-test to assess the increase in participant understanding. The evaluation results showed an increase in the average score from 41.63 in the pre-test to 76.08 in the post-test, reflecting an increase in understanding of 82.75%. Further analysis showed that age and farming experience factors did not significantly affect the increase in participant understanding. In conclusion, this program has succeeded in increasing farmer knowledge in TSS-based shallot cultivation techniques, which have the potential to support the sustainability of shallot production and strengthen farmers' economic resilience in the future. It is hoped that the TSS method can be applied more widely through the demonstration plot system to increase farmer confidence in adopting this technology

Do Appendiceal Neuroendocrine Tumors Metastasize Post Appendectomy or Right Hemicolectomy?

Neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) of the appendix are typically detected incidentally during appendectomy. Recent studies reported no metachronous metastases among patients with primary tumors <2 cm, regardless of lymph node status or referral for completion hemicolectomy. However, questions persist regarding the possibility of metastases developing decades after surgical resection, particularly because appendiceal NETs are frequently diagnosed in young adults and children. Therefore, we sought to evaluate patients with metastatic appendiceal NETs to assess whether any had been diagnosed previously with an early-stage appendiceal NET. We analyzed a large institutional neuroendocrine tumor database to identify appendiceal NETs of all stages and ascertain whether any patients with localized tumors developed metastases and whether any with metastatic disease had initially presented with an early-stage tumor. Of 3,795 patients with gastroenteropancreatic (GEP) NETs seen in an oncologic NET clinic between January 2008 and August 2023, 124 presented with appendiceal NETs. Of these, only 10 (<0.3% of the total GEP-NET population) had stage IV disease, 8 of whom were diagnosed synchronously at the time of initial diagnosis. Two patients with metastatic disease had reportedly undergone surgical resection for a primary appendiceal NET approximately 20 years before the diagnosis of metastatic disease, but medical records were not available to confirm an appendiceal primary. Stage IV appendiceal NETs are exceptionally rare, and distant metastases are synchronous in nearly all cases. The risk of metastatic spread after resection of local appendiceal NETs is negligible. Patients with tumors <2 cm should not be managed with completion right hemicolectomy, and the role of this operation for larger tumors is questionable. Postoperative surveillance is unlikely to be of benefit.

Financial instruments and their role in attracting investments

In the context of the current economic and political situation in Ukraine, the use of financial instruments as a means of attracting investments becomes relevant. Effective use of such tools allows the country not only to attract investments but also to reduce risks and ensure the stability of the financial system. The study of this topic helps understand the most effective strategies for attracting investments and improving existing financial mechanisms to achieve economic growth. The purpose of the present academic paper is to analyze financial instruments to attract investment. The scientific work examines the key aspects of their functioning and impact on investment processes, covering various types and their role in the development of capital markets and investment attraction. During the research, an analysis of literary sources, a comparative analysis, comparative analyses based on existing literature and previous studies, methods of systematization and generalization were performed. The results of the research confirm that financial instruments play an important role in attracting investments in the modern conditions of global financial markets. They allow effective management of financial resources and risks, providing various opportunities for raising capital and spreading risks. According to the results of the research, financial instruments play a key role in attracting investment capital, which is important for the development of the economy. Ukraine can use these tools to attract foreign investors; however, improvements are required, such as increased procurement transparency and improved public-private partnerships. The research also points to the importance of improving public-private partnerships and ensuring the transparency and efficiency of public procurement to further increase Ukraine's investment attractiveness. The use of various financial instruments is a key factor in successfully attracting investment capital and stimulating economic growth.

Willingness to Receive COVID-19 Booster Dose Using the Health Belief Model (HBM) Among University Students: Cross-Sectional Study.

Background/Objectives: COVID-19 has significantly impacted lives, and data show that receiving a booster vaccination has been demonstrated to lower the spread of COVID-19 and reduce the severity of the risk of infection. The Saudi government has actively promoted booster dose vaccines among university students who can spread the virus to older populations, especially in high-density environments, where the risk of virus transmission and spread is elevated. This study focuses on the acceptance of COVID-19 booster shots among students at Imam Abdulrahman bin Faisal University. The study assessed students' willingness to receive a COVID-19 booster dose and the factors influencing their decision. Methods: A descriptive, cross-sectional study design using an online self-administered survey was conducted among medical and non-medical students at Imam Abdulrahman bin Faisal University. A convenience sampling technique was used to recruit participants via email and social media platforms (WhatsApp version 2.3). Quantitative analysis was performed using IBM SPSS version 28.0. using descriptive statistics. Logistic regression analysis was used to predict factors affecting COVID-19 booster dose acceptance and hesitancy. Results: Among 315 respondents, 171 (54.3%) were males, and 144 (45.7%) were females. All the respondents fell in the 18-25 years age group. About 173 (54.9%) respondents were from health-related colleges. Overall, 24.44% (77/315) agreed to get a COVID-19 vaccine booster dose. However, 77.14% (243/315) were confident of getting the vaccine whenever they wanted. About 48.88% (154/315) of respondents considered COVID-19 a serious severe infection, while 14.06% (46/315) of respondents were concerned about the probability of receiving COVID-19 immunization (World Health Organization, 2021). Conclusions: The study revealed that students were not accepting COVID-19 booster doses, highlighting the need for awareness campaigns to dispel myths and improve vaccination rates.

Case report: Discovery of tuberculosis caused by Mycobacterium bovis in free-ranging vervet monkeys in the Greater Kruger Conservation Area

Animal tuberculosis (TB) has been reported in several wildlife species in the Greater Kruger Conservation Area (GKCA), South Africa. This report describes the discovery of clinical tuberculosis, caused by Mycobacterium bovis (M. bovis), in free-ranging vervet monkeys (Chlorocebus pygerythrus). The “One Health” concept is especially relevant to TB since this is a multi-host disease with zoonotic potential and is endemic in GKCA. Vervet monkeys have become habituated to humans in tourist areas and may be a source of infection through close contact. Indirect transmission of M. bovis through environmental sources has also been suspected to present a risk of spread between host species. Clinically diseased monkeys present in two tourist areas in the GKCA, that died (n = 1) or were euthanized (n = 5), were submitted for diagnostic necropsies. The presence of pathological lesions, Ziehl-Neelsen-stained impression smears, Xpert® MTB/RIF Ultra (GXU) assay, mycobacterial culture and speciation by genomic regions of difference PCR, were used to confirm the diagnosis of M. bovis infection in these monkeys. The finding of multiple cases necessitates further investigation of TB in monkey troops living within the GKCA tourist areas to determine the source of infection and assess the risk of transmission to other animals and humans.

Effect of Infectious Disease Risk Management on Indoor Environmental Quality in Lecture Rooms: Current Performance and Future Considerations

The global COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in significant and accelerated developments in ventilation practises, where the need to ventilate buildings has been put centre stage. Longer-term ventilation approaches are now more likely to utilise hybrid ventilation strategies to address the challenge of ensuring resilient indoor thermal environments that are carbon neutral while also minimising the risk of long-range airborne infectious spread of viral pathogens. In the short term, there are many existing buildings which may not undergo retrofit for some time, and consequently, risk mitigation strategies have been implemented in these buildings by utilising existing systems. This paper will present an indoor environmental quality evaluation of ten university lecture rooms both before, during and after changes in ventilation management behaviour and systems that were accelerated due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The results indicate a mean reduction in internal carbon dioxide levels of between 46% and 67% when pre-COVID-19 and COVID-19 datasets are compared and between 11% and 62% when pre-COVID-19 and post-COVID-19 datasets are compared. Changes in behaviour and systems have reduced the time spent above thresholds conducive to virus growth by between 8% and 54%, depending on the lecture room. Despite this, a “rebound” can be observed in many rooms, with CO2 levels appearing to be trending toward pre-pandemic levels. This work indicates the effect of behavioural and system changes on ventilation and the potential risk for virus spread. The results indicate a need to retrofit existing lecture rooms with more advanced natural or mechanical systems to ensure consistent indoor environmental quality.

Emerging Diseases in Spain Strawberry Crops: Neopestalotiopsis Leaf and Crown Rot and Fusarium Wilt.

In recent years, strawberry cultivation in Spain has been increasingly affected by new and re-emerging fungal diseases. The most significant emerging diseases in Spain include those caused by Neopestalotiopsis spp. Maharachch., K.D.Hyde & Crous and Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. fragariae Winks & Y.N. Williams. These pathogens are difficult to control due to their pathogenic variability (presence of pathotypes and/or races), the lack of knowledge about the susceptibility of the different cultivars, the limited availability of effective fumigants, and the absence of sufficient information about their sources of inoculum. Both pathogens can cause root and crown rot, leading to plant collapse and significant losses for strawberry producers. Several factors have contributed to the rise of these diseases in Spain: (i) the gradual ban on key soil fumigants has left the crop vulnerable; (ii) there has been a notable diversification in the origin of mother plants used in cultivation, with plants now sourced from various countries, increasing the risk of long-distance pathogen spread; (iii) the introduction of numerous new strawberry varieties, which exposes more genotypes to pathogenic infections; and (iv) changes in planting times, leading to younger and more vulnerable plants being exposed to heat stress, as well as an increase in disease susceptibility. Neopestalotiopsis spp. and Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. fragariae have also become major threats to strawberry crops worldwide, spreading through nursery plants and the movement of plant material. The latest research findings in Spain on both pathogens are highlighted in this manuscript.

Risk of Spreading in Adult-onset Dystonia.

Adult-onset dystonia can also spread to other parts of the body, although it is not as common as childhood-onset dystonia. Our study aimed to examine the clinical factors determining spreading patterns in all adult-onset dystonia types. We retrospectively analyzed the medical records of patients with a diagnosis of isolated dystonia followed longitudinally at our center. We included patients reporting symptom onset after 18 years. We then compared the clinical factors between groups with and without spreading. Among 434 patients (396 focal, 29 segmental, and nine generalized onset dystonia. mean follow-up of 8.6 ± 7.8 years), 48 (11.1%) experienced spread of dystonia, with 37 progressing from focal to segmental, two from focal to generalized, two from segmental to generalized, and seven from focal to segmental to generalized dystonia. Blepharospasm was the most common focal dystonia noted to spread, followed by oromandibular dystonia, cervical dystonia, laryngeal dystonia, and upper extremity dystonia, in decreasing order. A spreading pattern was observed in approximately one in 10 dystonia patients, and the spreading was more frequent in the segmental dystonia group. While there was no difference between the spreading groups regarding sensory tricks, tremor, and gender, family history was more common in the non-spreading group (p = 0.023). Older age at onset was independently associated with increased odds of spreading (hazards ratio: 1.054, p < 0.001, B = 0.053). Although risk factors for spread are variable, the underlying mechanisms are not fully known. Genetic factors may be possibly related to the spread, and future studies are needed on this subject.