World Population Research Articles

Comprehensive review of animal models in diabetes research using chemical agents

Diabetes mellitus, characterized by insufficient insulin secretion and impaired insulin efficacy, disrupts carbohydrate, protein, and lipid metabolism. The global diabetic population is expected to double by 2025, from 380 million, posing a significant health challenge. Most diabetic individuals fall into the type 1 or type 2 categories, and diabetes adversely affects various organs, such as the kidneys, liver, nervous system, reproductive system, and eyes. This review focuses on animal models of diabetes induced by chemical agents, which are essential tools for understanding disease mechanisms, investigating complications, and testing antidiabetic drugs. Models include those caused by streptozotocin (STZ), alloxan, ferric nitrilotriacetate (Fe-NTA), dithizone, and anti-insulin serum. Streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetes models create type 1 and 2 diabetes by destroying pancreatic beta cells. The combination of STZ with nicotinamide mimics type 2 diabetes phenotypes. Alloxan induces a hyperglycemic state by causing free radical formation that selectively destroys pancreatic beta cells. Fe-NTA and dithizone also create diabetes models by damaging pancreatic beta cells. Anti-insulin serum models induce insulin resistance and hyperglycemia by generating antibodies against insulin receptors, leading to a condition similar to type 1 diabetes. Each model has unique characteristics that make it suitable for different aspects of diabetes research. These models are used to understand the pathogenesis of diabetes, develop new treatment strategies, and evaluate the efficacy of potential drugs.

Energy Saving Technologies and Practices in Facility Agriculture in Cold Regions

With the growth of the global population, energy demand continues to rise, making cross-regional energy transportation less viable as a sustainable solution. As a result, the construction of facilities for agriculture in cold regions has become increasingly important in the development of modern agriculture. However, cold region facility agriculture faces significant energy and environmental challenges, necessitating the advancement and application of energy saving technologies. This study addresses the high energy consumption in cold region facility agriculture by experimentally evaluating the integrated effects of geothermal heat pumps, solar collectors, intelligent light control systems, LED plant lamps, and smart ventilation systems in saving energy. The focus is on analyzing the technical adaptability and economic feasibility of these technologies under extremely cold conditions in Heilongjiang. The research findings indicate an overall energy saving rate of 17.8%, with energy savings in heating, lighting, and ventilation systems being 17.6%, 18.6%, and 17.4%, respectively. Economic analysis shows that geothermal heat pumps and high efficiency insulation materials have a short investment payback period and are suitable for widespread adoption, while solar collectors and intelligent light control systems are more appropriate for long-term application. This study demonstrates that intelligent and integrated energy saving technologies have significant potential in cold region facility agriculture, providing both data support and technical references for the efficient, low-carbon development of agriculture in cold climates. This study not only provides scientific evidence for the sustainable development of cold region facility agriculture but also highlights the practical implications of these technologies for reducing energy consumption and promoting low-carbon agriculture.

The Global Food System and Its Environmental Impact: A Call for Sustainable Transformation

The modern global food system—spanning production, processing, distribution, and consumption—has emerged as a significant contributor to environmental degradation. It drives greenhouse gas emissions, land and water degradation, biodiversity loss, and resource depletion. Sustainable nutrition, which integrates environmental considerations into dietary choices, has become a key concern, emphasizing plant-based proteins, seasonal food consumption, and minimal ecological impact. With the global population projected to reach 10 billion by 2050, ensuring food security while minimizing environmental harm is crucial. Agriculture accounts for about 24% of global greenhouse gas emissions, driven by methane from livestock and nitrous oxide from fertilizers. Land use changes for agriculture contribute to deforestation, biodiversity loss, and soil degradation, exacerbating climate change. Water use in agriculture, the largest consumer of freshwater, further strains ecosystems, while pollution from agricultural runoff causes eutrophication. Effective strategies for sustainable transformation include agroecology, regenerative agriculture, dietary shifts, reducing food waste, and technological innovations. Practices like crop rotation and managed grazing improve soil health and sequester carbon. Transitioning to plant-based diets and reducing food waste could significantly lower emissions. Precision agriculture and alternative protein sources offer promising advancements. Holistic approaches involving policy reform, innovation, and behavioral change are needed to create a resilient, environmentally friendly food system that sustains both human and planetary health.

EDUKASI PEMANFAATAN BAHAN ALAM UNTUK KEBERSIHAN GIGI PADA WARGA KELURAHAN KALIGAWE

Background: Dental cavities or caries are ranked first in oral diseases in the world population. In Indonesia, RISKESDAS 2018 data shows that the greatest prevalence of caries is in the age groups of 5 years (93.4%), 12 years (68.8%), 15 years (68.1%), 35-44 years (92.1%) and 65-74 years (95.2%). Dental plaque control can use natural resources that are widely available in Indonesia. However, the proper use of natural materials and adequate knowledge of the advantages and disadvantages of each type of natural resource are very important for the success of dental plaque control in the community.Objective : This community service is to provide education about natural ingredients for dental health as well as the advantages and disadvantages of each ingredient to the Kaligawe Village community and provide education about oral health and the importance of maintaining dental hygiene to maintain oral homeostasis.Method: The methods used to increase community knowledge and awareness are counseling and interactive discussions.Result: The results of this community service include an increase in understanding and community interest.Conclusion: This educational activity has succeeded in increasing the knowledge and awareness of the Kaligawe Village community about the importance of dental hygiene and the use of natural substances.

Edible Insects as an Alternative Source of Nutrients: Benefits, Risks, and the Future of Entomophagy in Europe—A Narrative Review

According to projections by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, the global population will reach 9 billion by 2050. This raises concerns about the ability to feed such a population. In view of the above, it is necessary to search for alternative food sources. Edible insects are rich in complete protein, essential fatty acids, vitamins and micronutrients. Despite this, entomophagy is not common in Europe. In 2021, the European Union approved Acheta domesticus, Tenebrio molitor, Locusta migratoria, and Alphitobius diaperinus for consumption. However, their consumption may also be associated with certain hazards, e.g., food allergies. The purpose of this review is to present existing knowledge, discuss the possible dangers of consuming insects, and identify areas for further research. Studies in Asian populations indicate that edible insects may be responsible for 4.2–19.4% of food allergies and 18% of fatal food-induced anaphylaxis. There are also increasing reports from Europe of food allergies to edible insects. A thorough understanding of allergens, their properties, and the mechanisms of food allergies associated with edible insects’ consumption is essential for ensuring consumers’ safety. In the future, it would be worthwhile to investigate the effects of heat treatment on the allergenicity of insect proteins.

Draft genome sequence of Kei apple, an underutilized African tree crop

To address food and nutrition security in the face of burgeoning global populations and erratic climatic conditions there is a need to include nutrient dense, climatic resilient but neglected indigenous fruit trees in agrifood systems. Here we present the draft genome sequence of Kei Apple, Dovyalis afra, a neglected indigenous African fruit tree with untapped potential to contribute to nutrient security and improved livelihoods. Our long-read-based genome assembly comprises 440 Mbp sequence across 1190 contigs with a N50 and L50 of 13.3 Mbp and 11, respectively. We also annotated the genome and identified 27,449 protein-coding genes. Our genome assembly provides a valuable resource for unlocking the food security and nutraceutical potential of Kei apple.

Eco-anxiety, climate change and the ‘bottom billion’: a plea for better understanding

Climate change poses enormous, rapidly increasing risks to human well-being that remain poorly appreciated. The growing understanding of this threat has generated a phenomenon often called ‘eco-anxiety’. Eco-anxiety (and its...

Reduced antioxidant high-density lipoprotein function in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction.

Heart failure (HF) is a heterogeneous clinical syndrome affecting a growing global population. Due to the high incidence of cardiovascular risk factors, a large proportion of the Western population is at risk for heart failure. Oxidative stress and inflammation play a crucial role in the pathophysiology of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). While previous studies have demonstrated an association between dysfunctional HDL and heart failure, the specific link between oxidized HDL and HF remains unexplored. In this cross-sectional observational study, the antioxidant function of HDL was assessed in 366 patients with suspected heart failure. HFpEF assessment was conducted according to current guidelines. A validated cell-free biochemical assay was used to determine reduced HDL antioxidant function as assessed by increased HDL-lipid peroxide content (HDLox), normalized by HDL-C levels and the mean value of a pooled serum control from healthy participants (nHDLox; no units). Results were expressed as median with interquartile range (IQR). Participants with HFpEF (n = 88) had 15% higher mean relative levels of nHDLox than those without heart failure (n = 180). Using a basic multivariate model adjusted for age, sex, eGFR and a full multivariate model (adjusted for diabetes, hypertension, atrial fibrillation, LDL cholesterol, hsCRP, and coronary artery disease), nHDLox was an independent predictor for HFpEF (p < 0.05). An increase in 1-SD in nHDLox was associated with a 67% increased risk for HFpEF if compared with participants without heart failure (p = 0.02). HDL antioxidant function is reduced in patients with HFpEF. Improving HDL function is a promising target for early heart failure treatment.

Advancements in Crop Yield Improvement through Genetic Engineering

While the global population continues to grow, it has heightened demand for better agricultural output. Traditional breeding techniques have played a great role in the improvement of crop yields, but they are not very efficient and not very excellent because they take quite a period of time and are not quite based on scope. Genetic engineering is a more precise, powerful approach with more direct influence on a plant genome; hence, the genetic engineering approach provides an alternative means of increasing the productivity of crops through the manipulation of the plant genome. This review describes the state-of-the-art genetic engineering technologies, like CRISPR, RNAi, and transgenic crops, to explain their capacity to enhance crop yield. It also reviews the problems, environmental implications, and future directions in GE crop biotechnology.

A Microfluidic Paper-Based Device for Monitoring Urease Activity in Saliva

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a disorder that affects over 10% of the global population, and that would benefit from innovative methodologies that would provide early detection. Since it has been reported that there are high levels of urease in CKD patients’ saliva, this sample is a promising non-invasive alternative to blood for CKD detection and monitoring. This work introduces a novel 3D µPAD for quantifying urease activity in saliva in a range of 0.041–0.750 U/mL, with limits of detection and quantification of 0.012 and 0.041 U/mL, respectively. The device uses the urease in the sample to convert urea into ammonia, causing a colorimetric change in the bromothymol blue. The accuracy of the developed device was evaluated by comparing the measurements of several saliva samples (#13) obtained with the μPAD and with a commercially available kit. Stability studies were also performed to assess its functionality as a point-of-care methodology, and the device was stable for 4 months when stored in a vacuum. After the sample placement, it could be scanned within 40 min without providing significantly different results. The developed device quantifies urease activity in saliva within 30 min, providing a simple, portable, lab-free alternative to existing methodologies.

Exploring Mechanisms and Management of Drug Tolerance and Resistance in Schizophrenia

Schizophrenia is a multifaceted mental disorder affecting approximately 1% of the global population, significantly disrupting cognitive function, emotion, and behaviour. Antipsychotic medications are the primary treatment, targeting neurotransmitter regulation to alleviate symptoms. However, long-term use often leads to drug tolerance and resistance, diminishing treatment effectiveness and potentially exacerbating the patient's condition. This article examines the mechanisms and contributing factors associated with drug tolerance and resistance in schizophrenia, focusing on adaptive changes in neurotransmitter systems, alterations in drug metabolism, and neural remodeling. It explores the interplay of biological, environmental, and treatment-related influences on therapeutic outcomes and identifies common patterns in tolerance and resistance manifestations. Furthermore, the article proposes practical management strategies, including drug rotation, dosage adjustments, combination therapies, and the utilization of next-generation antipsychotics. By providing clinicians with insights into tailoring treatment approaches to individual patient needs, this study aims to improve the overall management of schizophrenia. A deeper understanding of drug tolerance and resistance is essential for optimizing treatment efficacy and enhancing the quality of life for affected individuals. Future research directions are also suggested to better elucidate the genetic underpinnings of these phenomena, paving the way for personalized treatment strategies.

Inhibidores del transportador SGLT2 en el tratamiento de la Diabetes mellitus tipo 2: revisión bibliográfica

Mellitus Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects the global population. In Latin America, it has high prevalence rates and increasingly rising mortality. In Ecuador, 4,895 deaths from this condition were reported in 2017. Sodium-glucose cotransporter inhibitors (SGLT inhibitors) have been shown to be effective in treating diabetes mellitus. These inhibitors help reduce body weight and glycosylated hemoglobin, particularly in patients with good renal function. SGLT2 inhibitors, approved in recent years, block the renal reabsorption of glucose, promoting its excretion through urine. This reduces blood glucose levels and offers additional benefits such as renal protection and decreased cardiovascular risks. Methodology: Non-experimental, bibliographic review. Objective: Analyze the global benefits of SGLT2 transporter inhibitors in the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus. Results: The main SGLT2 inhibitors each have specific pharmacokinetic characteristics and therapeutic applications that can be leveraged when treating patients with this condition. Conclusions: Type 2 diabetes mellitus is a chronic condition that requires timely and appropriate treatment with medications that provide clinical benefits to the patient. Considering SGLT2 inhibitors, a novel treatment approach can be offered to diabetic patients, which is generally well tolerated depending on the patient's condition

Stereospecific Resistance to N2-Acyl Tetrahydro-β-carboline Antimalarials Is Mediated by a PfMDR1 Mutation That Confers Collateral Drug Sensitivity.

Half the world's population is at risk of developing a malaria infection, which is caused by parasites of the genus Plasmodium. Currently, resistance has been identified to all clinically available antimalarials, highlighting an urgent need to develop novel compounds and better understand common mechanisms of resistance. We previously identified a novel tetrahydro-β-carboline compound, PRC1590, which potently kills the malaria parasite. To better understand its mechanism of action, we selected for and characterized resistance to PRC1590 in Plasmodium falciparum. Through in vitro selection of resistance to PRC1590, we have identified that a single-nucleotide polymorphism on the parasite's multidrug resistance protein 1 (PfMDR1 G293V) mediates resistance to PRC1590. This mutation results in stereospecific resistance and sensitizes parasites to other antimalarials, such as mefloquine, quinine, and MMV019017. Intraerythrocytic asexual stage specificity assays have revealed that PRC1590 is most potent during the trophozoite stage when the parasite forms a single digestive vacuole (DV) and actively digests hemoglobin. Moreover, fluorescence microscopy revealed that PRC1590 disrupts the function of the DV, indicating a potential molecular target associated with this organelle. Our findings mark a significant step in understanding the mechanism of resistance and the mode of action of this emerging class of antimalarials. In addition, our results suggest a potential link between resistance mediated by PfMDR1 and PRC1590's molecular target. This research underscores the pressing need for future research aimed at investigating the intricate relationship between a compound's chemical scaffold, molecular target, and resistance mutations associated with PfMDR1.

Assessment of Child Care Institutions in India: Perspectives from Children Who Have Transitioned From Institutions

ABSTRACTThis study focused on assessing the former residents' perspectives of the quality of care provided in child care institution in India, particularly those rehabilitated from the facilities in the Manipur region. With a large share of the world's children population, India takes up the responsibility of bringing care to millions of children who are orphaned or destitute. The Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection) Act sets standards for protection of the welfare of children in institutional care; however, concerns of poor care quality as well as abuse and trafficking continue to be raised. The methodology applied in this study uses a qualitative technique with a fundamental interpretative design to explore the lived experiences of children who have exited these institutions. Findings from the study illuminate large discrepancies between children's need for independence and their ability to thrive independently after care, including insufficient post care preparation, inconsistent levels of emotional support, and meagre educational and skill building opportunities. These findings contrast previous studies that tend to focus on pervasive structural and regulatory shortcomings in child care institutions, while neglecting to consider the relational lived experiences of children in the aftermath of institutional care. This study stresses the need for a thorough nurturing approach to care that not only supplies children with the practical essentials to live independently but additionally handles their emotional needs. As such, this study provides important recommendations for governments, child welfare practitioners and organizations that wish to improve the institutional care and the long‐term trajectories of children leaving care.

Effect of Cost of Construction of Medium-Level Building Projects on Project Productivity in Kirinyaga County, Kenya

The construction industry is important in society, the economy and the environment. Despite its importance, it is faced with the challenge of the increasing world's urban population at a rate of 200,000 people per day who require affordable housing, social transportation and utility infrastructure. To counter this challenge, the industry will be under a moral obligation to transform by way of reducing construction costs, improving the use of scarce materials and making more eco-efficient over time. Therefore, this study's objective was to evaluate the effect of the cost of construction of medium-level building projects on project productivity in Kirinyaga County, Kenya. The total costs of construction (cost stack) are split into hard costs, soft costs and unforeseen costs. The methodology adopted for data collection was through the administration of structured questionnaires to select seven categories considered to be the main key stakeholders in the construction of building projects. These comprised landlords/homeowners, architects, structural engineers, quantity surveyors, building contractors, construction project managers, and Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure officials. To analyze the results, descriptive statistics and correlational analysis were used. In the analysis, emphasis was placed on the evaluation of the effect of the cost of construction on project completion time, quality and costs. Results from the study show that key factors affecting project productivity through increased costs are delay in payment to contractors and suppliers, high cost of construction materials and choice of construction materials. Other factors are the level of project complexity, site topography, architectural design errors and changes as well as structural design errors and changes.

DNA barcoding and genetic diversity studies of Water lily aphid, Rhopalosiphum nymphaeae from India

Aim: In this study, DNA barcoding of Rhophalosiphum nymphaeae was conducted using a population collected from five different aquatic host plants, and the genetic diversity analysis was performed. Methodology: Genomic DNA from R. nymphaeae adults was extracted and the COI gene was amplified using PCR. The PCR products were sequenced, analyzed for identification using NCBI and BOLD databases, and the sequences were submitted to NCBI GenBank. Further genetic analysis were conducted to study the genetic diversity of the pest. Results: Two new aquatic weed hosts of water lily aphid was reported from India, i.e., Blue water lily, Nymphaea nouchali Burm. f., and Four leaf clover, Marsilea quardrifolia L. The genetic diversity analysis revealed the lesser diversity among the Indian and USA population of water lily aphid as compared to the populations from China, Canada and Lithuania. Interpretation: The genetic diversity analysis indicated no genetic variation in the Indian population, however, a moderate level of variation was observed in the rest of the world population. This work will facilitate the quick identification of R. nymphaeae independent of sex and stage, furthermore helping in either pest management or its use as bio-control agent. Key words: DNA barcoding, Marsilea quadrifolia, Nymphaea nouchali, Pest, Water lily aphid

Gut microbiome in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has a rapidly growing incidence worldwide, affecting approximately one-third of world population. The disturbance of gut commensal bacteria impacting host’s homeostasis is referred to as gut dysbiosis. The gut microbiome contributes to the pathogenesis of NAFLD through various pathways. Gut microbiota is at constant interactions with the intestinal epithelial barrier and affects its integrity. Through gut-liver axis, gut microbiota may influence liver immune function. The release of lipopolysaccharides (LPS) from intestines to portal vein which are transported to the liver, may trigger hepatic inflammation, steatosis and even fibrosis. Moreover, the gut microbiome induces the conversion of primary bile acids (BAs) to secondary BAs, which activates intestinal receptors, such as FXR and TGR5. FXR activation decreases fat absorption and thus reduces hepatic lipid accumulation, while TGR5 activation promotes the release of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) in blood. Furthermore, gut ethanol-producing bacteria has been implicated in NAFLD development. Additionally, in NAFLD there is a reduction in intestinal levels of short-chain fatty acids, such as butyrate, propionate and acetate. Many bacterial alterations have been observed in NAFLD, including the increased Bacteroidetes and decreased Firmicutes. Many probiotics have been tried in NAFLD prevention and management, including a plethora of strains from Lactobacilli, Bifidobacteria and Streptococcus and some of them have promising perspectives. There is also some promising data from the administration of prebiotics (such as inulin and fructo-oligosaccharides) and symbiotics (probiotics plus prebiotics). Faecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) is yet to be evaluated for its efficacy against NAFLD.

Assessment of Fibre Characteristics and Suitability of Sida acuta Burm F. for Pulp and Paper Production

The ever-increasing demand for paper and paper products and alarming rate of global population growth necessitates research into non-wood fibre to augment the popular wood fibres in short supply. Sida acuta obtained at two locations, samples collected from 3 areas per location. Samples of dimension 10 x 10 x 20 mm macerated in equal volumes of glacial acetic acid and 30% hydrogen peroxide at 80oC in an oven. Twenty-five whole fibres in swollen condition were measured. Derivatives of fibre dimensions viz: Runkel ratio, flexibility and slenderness were also evaluated. Pooled mean fibre length was 1.04mm, pooled fibre diameter was 25.02μm, pooled fibre lumen width was 14.69μm and fibre cell wall thickness was 5.17μm. Runkel ratio was 0.73, coefficient of suppleness (flexibility) was 60.05 while felting power (slenderness) was 42. Values obtained connote that S. acuta’s fibre morphology is good for pulping much more that its Runkel ratio (0.73) is less than 1, coefficient of suppleness (60.05) is greater than 50 and its felting power (42) is greater than 33. Specific Gravity ranged from 0.416–0.468. With reference to the above, S. acuta is fairly suitable for pulp and paper making.

Identification and mechanistic insights of cell senescence-related genes in psoriasis

Background Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease affecting 2–3% of the global population, characterised by red scaly patches that significantly affect patients’ quality of life. Recent studies have suggested that cell senescence, a state in which cells cease to divide and secrete inflammatory mediators, plays a critical role in various chronic diseases, including psoriasis. However, the involvement and mechanisms of action of senescence-related genes in psoriasis remain unclear. Methods This study aimed to identify senescence-related genes associated with psoriasis and explore their molecular mechanisms. RNA sequencing data from psoriasis and control samples were obtained from the GEO database. Differential expression analysis was performed using DESeq2 to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs). The intersection of DEGs with cell senescence-related genes from the CellAge database was used to identify the candidate genes. Protein-protein interaction networks, Gene Ontology, and Kyoto Encyclopaedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analyses were conducted to explore the functions and pathways of these genes. Machine learning algorithms, including Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (LASSO) regression and Support vector machine-recursive feature elimination (SVE-RFE), were used to select feature genes that were validated by qRT-PCR. Additionally, an immune cell infiltration analysis was performed to understand the roles of these genes in the immune response to psoriasis. Results This study identified 4,913 DEGs in psoriasis, of which 46 were related to cell senescence. Machine learning highlighted four key genes, CXCL1, ID4, CCND1, and IRF7, as significant. These genes were associated with immune cell infiltration and validated by qRT-PCR, suggesting their potential as therapeutic targets for psoriasis. Conclusions This study identified and validated key senescence-related genes involved in psoriasis, providing insights into their molecular mechanisms and potential therapeutic targets and offering a foundation for developing targeted therapies for psoriasis.

Triple Threat: How Global Fungal Rice and Wheat Pathogens Utilize Comparable Pathogenicity Mechanisms to Drive Host Colonization.

Plant pathogens pose significant threats to global cereal crop production, particularly for essential crops like rice and wheat, which are fundamental to global food security and provide nearly 40% of the global caloric intake. As the global population continues to rise, increasing agricultural production to meet food demands becomes even more critical. However, the production of these vital crops is constantly threatened by phytopathological diseases, especially those caused by fungal pathogens such as Magnaporthe oryzae, the causative agent of rice blast disease, Fusarium graminearum, responsible for Fusarium head blight (FHB) in wheat, and Zymoseptoria tritici, the source of Septoria tritici blotch (STB). All three pathogens are hemibiotrophic, initially colonizing the host through a biotrophic, symptomless lifestyle, followed by causing cell death through the necrotrophic phase. Additionally, they deploy a diverse range of effectors, including proteinaceous and non-proteinaceous molecules, to manipulate fundamental host cellular processes, evade immune responses, and promote disease progression. This review discusses recent advances in understanding the effector biology of these three pathogens, highlighting both the shared functionalities and unique molecular mechanisms they employ to regulate conserved elements of host pathways, such as directly manipulating gene transcription in host nuclei, disrupting reactive oxygen species (ROS) signaling, interfering with protein stability, and undermining host structural integrity. By detailing these complex interactions, the review explores potential targets for innovative control measures and emphasizes the need for further research to develop effective strategies against these destructive pathogens in the face of evolving environmental and agricultural challenges.