Search Results (149,386)

COVID-19 vaccination is a critical public health measure to control the pandemic, but disparities in vaccination uptake remain a concern. This study investigates the determinants of COVID-19 vaccination among Korean adults using the Andersen model. Data from 231,784 participants in the community health survey were analyzed using chi-square testing and logistic regression. The risk of non-vaccination was higher among those aged 19–64 (95% CI: 1.52–1.74), males (95% CI: 1.11–1.24), the unemployed (95% CI: 2.21–2.47), unmarried individuals (95% CI: 1.12–1.24), those with unmet healthcare needs (95% CI: 1.41–1.67), recipients of national basic livelihood guarantees (95% CI: 1.45–1.73), those with lower subjective health (95% CI: 1.20–1.30), individuals with depression (95% CI: 1.28–1.44), current smokers (95% CI: 1.13–1.30), and those skipping breakfast (95% CI: 1.04–1.16). Conversely, the risk was lower for those with less than a high school education (95% CI: 0.72–0.81), individuals with psychological concerns about infection (0.87, 95% CI: 0.82–0.92) or public criticism (0.91, 95% CI: 0.86–0.97), individuals with chronic diseases (95% CI: 0.64–0.72), and current alcohol consumers (95% CI: 0.52–0.58). These findings underscore the need for targeted intervention strategies and support systems to promote vaccination in vulnerable populations. Further research should explore the long-term impact of these interventions on vaccination uptake. Full article

With favorable properties of stretchability, stitchability, and potential to be woven into a fabric, thread-based sensors have gained considerable interest for wearable devices for smart and connected health applications. To facilitate wearable applications, an easy and reliable way to fabricate these thread-based sensors with good performance and consistency is the key while manufacturing these smart threads. In this paper, we propose an automated thread-coating system that can fabricate thread-based strain sensors with controlled parameters. The platform uses integrated sensors for controlled manufacturing of the threads in a highly compact structure that consists of an innovative tension sensor and a closed-loop thermal management system. Using this new system, a sample thread with a gauge factor of 1.47 and tension sensitivity of 32.64 KΩ/N is prepared. Compared with hand-coated thread, the machine-fabricated thread shows much better sensitivity and consistency. The prepared strain sensor is made into a respiration sensor patch and a limb motion patch to demonstrate its application. Full article

Microplastics (MPLs) and nanoplastics (NPLs) are smaller particles derived from larger plastic material, polymerization, or refuse. In context to environmental health, they are separated into the industrially-created “primary” category or the degradation derivative “secondary” category where the particles exhibit different physiochemical characteristics that attenuate their toxicities. However, some particle types are more well documented in terms of their fate in the environment and potential toxicological effects (secondary) versus their industrial fabrication and chemical characterization (primary). Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR/µ-FTIR), Raman/µ-Raman, Proton Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (H-NMR), Curie Point-Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (CP-gc-MS), Induced Coupled Plasma-Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS), Nanoparticle Tracking Analysis (NTA), Field Flow Fractionation-Multiple Angle Light Scattering (FFF-MALS), Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), Thermogravimetry (TGA), Differential Mobility Particle [Sizing] (DMPS), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), and Scanning Transmission X-ray Microspectroscopy (STXM) are reviewed as part of a suite of characterization methods for physiochemical ascertainment and distinguishment. In addition, Optical-Photothermal Infrared Microspectroscopy (O-PTIR), Z-Stack Confocal Microscopy, Mueller Matrix Polarimetry, and Digital Holography (DH) are touched upon as a suite of cutting-edge modes of characterization. Organizations, like the water treatment or waste management industry, and those in groups that bring awareness to this issue, which are in direct contact with the hydrosphere, can utilize these techniques in order to sense and remediate this plastic polymer pollution. The primary goal of this review paper is to highlight the extent of plastic pollution in the environment as well as introduce its effect on the biodiversity of the planet while underscoring current characterization techniques in this field of research. The secondary goal involves illustrating current and theoretical avenues in which future research needs to address and optimize MPL/NPL remediation, utilizing nanotechnology, before this sleeping giant of a problem awakens. Full article

Wearable tear-based biosensors have garnered substantial interest for real time monitoring with an emphasis on personalized health care. These biosensors utilize major tear biomarkers such as proteins, lipids, metabolites, and electrolytes for the detection and recording of stable biological signals in a non-invasive manner. The present comprehensive review delves deep into the tear composition along with potential biomarkers that can identify, monitor, and predict certain ocular diseases such as dry eye disease, conjunctivitis, eye-related infections, as well as diabetes mellitus. Recent technologies in tear-based wearable point-of-care medical devices, specifically the state-of-the-art and prospects of glucose, pH, lactate, protein, lipid, and electrolyte sensing from tear are discussed. Finally, the review addresses the existing challenges associated with the widespread application of tear-based sensors, which will pave the way for advanced scientific research and development of such non-invasive health monitoring devices. Full article

Background/Objectives: Brazilian red propolis has attracted attention for its pharmacological properties. However, signs of toxicity were recently observed in long-term studies using the hydroalcoholic extract of red propolis (RPHE), likely due to polyprenylated benzophenones. This study aimed to develop a benzophenone-free red propolis extract (BFRP) and validate an HPLC-PDA method to quantify its main constituents: isoliquiritigenin, vestitol, neovestitol, medicarpine, and 7-O-methylvestitol. Methods: BFRP’s toxicity was assessed in zebrafish larvae through a vibrational startle response assay (VSRA) and morphological analysis. Genotoxicity was evaluated using the micronucleus test in rodents, and the extract’s effects on chemically induced preneoplastic lesions in rat colon were studied. An HPLC-PDA method was used to quantify BFRP’s main compounds. Results: BFRP primarily contained vestitol (128.24 ± 1.01 μg/mL) along with isoliquiritigenin, medicarpin, neovestitol, and 7-O-methylvestitol. Zebrafish larvae exposed to 40 µg/mL of BFRP exhibited toxicity, higher than the 10 µg/mL for RPHE, though no morphological differences were found. Fluorescent staining in the notochord, branchial arches, and mouth was observed in larvae treated with both BFRP and RPHE. No genotoxic or cytotoxic effects were observed up to 2000 mg/kg in rodents, with no impact on hepatotoxicity or nephrotoxicity markers. Chemoprevention studies showed a 41.6% reduction in preneoplastic lesions in rats treated with 6 mg/kg of BFRP. Conclusions: These findings indicate that BFRP is a safe, effective propolis-based extract with potential applications for human health, demonstrating reduced toxicity and chemopreventive properties. Full article

The ubiquitous presence of plastics represents a global threat for all ecosystems and human health. In this study, we evaluated, in vitro and in vivo, the genotoxic potential of different concentrations of polystyrene microplastics (PS-MPs) and their possible synergistic interactions with bisphenol-A (BPA). For the in vitro and the in vivo assays, we used human lymphocytes and hemocytes from Lymnaea stagnalis, respectively. The genomic damage was evaluated by the micronucleus assay, and differences in eggs laid and growth of L. stagnalis were also evaluated. In human lymphocytes, PS-MPs alone at the concentration of 200 μg/mL and in association with BPA 0.100 µg/mL significantly increased the frequencies of micronuclei and nuclear buds, indicating a possible in vitro genotoxic additive action of these two compounds. Vice versa, PS-MPs did not result in genotoxicity in hemocytes. Our results indicated that PS-MPs have genotoxic properties only in vitro and at a concentration of 200 µg/mL; moreover, this compound could intensify the genomic damage when tested with BPA, indicating possible cumulative effects. Finally, PS significantly reduced the growth and the number of laid eggs in L. stagnalis. Full article

To enhance the digital competencies of pharmacy students, the Institute of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacotherapy at Heinrich-Heine University Duesseldorf developed and evaluated a theoretical module on digital health and data analysis. This innovative module integrated a continuous glucose-monitoring (CGM) wearable device into teaching, providing students with in-depth practical experience and a 2.5 h seminar on digital health and CGM systems. Students’ knowledge of CGM and self-assessment of their CGM competencies were assessed in a pre-post manner. Additionally, students’ satisfaction with the module and their perceptions of the future integration of digital health training and the role of wearables in pharmacy practice were also assessed after the module. A total of 39 final-year pharmacy students completed the module conducted in June 2024 as part of the clinical pharmacy seminar. In total, 32 students completed the pre- and post-knowledge tests and self-assessment questionnaires. Both the knowledge and the students’ self-assessment of CGM-related skills after the module increased significantly (p < 0.05). Students expanded their knowledge regarding digital health solutions, in particular the CGM systems, and increased their self-reported competence in CGM-related skills. With this module, an important foundation was laid, as this is the first theoretical module including the essentials of CGM digital health tools for pharmacy students in Germany. Full article

Background/Objectives: The main outcomes of the COVID-19 pandemic can be used to assess the capability and sustainability of public healthcare and Long-Term Care (LTC) systems. This study aims to identify the population’s demographic and socio-economic characteristics, as well as other national resources associated with the incidence and mortality of COVID-19, by comparing three European countries during the first pandemic period (Italy, Spain, and Germany). The results will identify possible strengths and weaknesses that could be considered as hints of the need for health and social intervention. Methods: Variables describing the countries’ core demographics, socio-economic characteristics, and national resources were collected from 2001–2021 from well-established international databases. COVID-19 incidence and death figures from 1 March 2020 to 31 March 2021 were extracted from national health databases. Analysis focused on bivariate and weighted multivariable linear regressions between incidence, mortality, and socio-economic covariates. Results: Findings show that both care models and socio-demographic characteristics influenced the capability of the first year’s response to the COVID-19 emergency. Formal public care appears to represent the most effective strategy against incidence and mortality regarding COVID-19, especially for older people, because it mitigates the adverse effects of socio-economic characteristics. Conclusions: Current strategies oriented towards privatizing care should, therefore, be considered critically, since they may result in weaker protection of vulnerable groups, such as frail older people, due to the unequal position of individuals with different socio-economic conditions in purchasing services from the care market. Full article

A good diet during pregnancy is associated with improvements to maternal and fetal health. Nevertheless, excessive weight gain during pregnancy has been reported in several studies. The aim of this review is to determine the dietary habits of pregnant women (measured according to their degree of adherence to the Mediterranean diet, a reference in dietary quality), their knowledge of food and nutrition, and their perceptions of the nutritional education received during their pregnancy, in order to detect intervention needs within that group. The bibliographic search was conducted on three databases (Medline, PubMed central, and Web of Science), using the keywords “pregnancy”, “Mediterranean diet”, “nutrition knowledge”, “nutritional education”, and some synonyms. The final selection included 68 original articles. The available evidence indicated that, although pregnant women were aware of the importance of nutrition during pregnancy, their habits showed some room for improvement in terms of diet and physical exercise. Lack of adequate advice was the main barrier to the practice of healthy habits that pregnant women encountered; they considered that the information they received during pregnancy follow-up visits was inadequate. However, the success of interventions within different countries is a source of hope for well-structured nutrition education throughout pregnancy. The lack of nutrition-related knowledge among pregnant women could be originally related to poorly planned nutrition education from healthcare providers. Research focused on the consultations with these healthcare providers could be of help when proposing strategies to improve the content, the depth, and the duration of nutrition education sessions. It should, in any case, be noted that the available evidence in this field is limited to certain geographical origins. Therefore, research that uncovers evidence in different countries will be useful for learning about the factors that condition the habits of pregnant women and, in that way, guide strategies for the improvement of the health of expectant mothers during that stage in their lives. Full article

Radiation-induced cataracts (RICs) represent a significant public health challenge, particularly impacting individuals exposed to ionizing radiation (IR) through medical treatments, occupational settings, and environmental factors. Effective therapeutic strategies require a deep understanding of the mechanisms underlying RIC formation (RICF). This study investigates the roles of angiotensin II (Ang II) and oxidative stress in RIC development, with a focus on their combined effects on lens transparency and cellular function. Key mechanisms include the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and oxidative damage to lens proteins and lipids, as well as the impact of Ang II on inflammatory responses and cellular apoptosis. While the generation of ROS from water radiolysis is well established, the impact of Ang II on RICs is less understood. Ang II intensifies oxidative stress by activating type 1 receptors (AT1Rs) on lens epithelial cells, resulting in increased ROS production and inflammatory responses. This oxidative damage leads to protein aggregation, lipid peroxidation, and apoptosis, ultimately compromising lens transparency and contributing to cataract formation. Recent studies highlight Ang II’s dual role in promoting both oxidative stress and inflammation, which accelerates cataract development. RICs pose a substantial public health concern due to their widespread prevalence and impact on quality of life. Targeting Ang II signaling and oxidative stress simultaneously could represent a promising therapeutic approach. Continued research is necessary to validate these strategies and explore their efficacy in preventing or reversing RIC development. Full article

The Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention declared mpox a Public Health Emergency of Continental Security (PHECS) in Africa. African public health systems have moved to mobilize a response against a backdrop of inherent significant challenges. With this commentary, we discuss how lessons from past public health emergencies, particularly COVID-19 and Ebola outbreaks, have prepared the region for improved disease surveillance, rapid response strategies, and effective public health communication and how these lessons can be applied to the mpox response, emphasizing the importance of strong healthcare infrastructure, effective data sharing, community engagement, targeted interventions, and robust contact tracing. Additionally, addressing misinformation and building public trust are crucial for controlling the spread of any disease. By leveraging these strategies, African countries can enhance their response to mpox. This includes improving diagnostic capabilities, strengthening cross-border collaborations, and prioritizing vaccination campaigns where needed. Ultimately, by applying the hard-earned lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic and Ebola outbreak, the East Africa region can better address the challenges posed by mpox and safeguard public health. Full article

Objectives: One of the behavioral problems strongly associated with emotional dysregulation (ED) in ASD is emotional outbursts (EOs) characterized by a pattern of challenging behavior that varies across individuals and across time. Cultural factors can modulate the expression of EOs. This study aimed to characterize the profile of emotional outbursts (EOs) in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) across various countries in Latin America and to identify clinical, emotional, and contextual factors that contribute to the onset and frequency of EOs within this diverse sample. Methods: A cross-sectional and cross-cultural study was conducted between 2023 and 2024 comprising samples from five countries in the Latin American Network for Autism-REAL: Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Uruguay, and the Dominican Republic. We studied 689 children with ASD (age x = 8.7 ± 2.6 years) using the Emotional Outburst Questionnaire (EOQ). Results: We identified different types of EO among children with ASD in our sample. The most frequent was the ‘behavioral indicators of emotion’ (52.0%) followed by ‘increased motor activity’ (28.3%), ‘non-speech vocalizations’, (27.6%), ‘mild verbal aggression’ (23.8%), and ‘avoidance’ (21.5%). Children in a bad mood or having a bad day or experiencing irritability were the most significant factors that increased the likelihood of EOs. Conclusions: Our results revealed that irritability is an important trigger for EOs and should not be disregarded or underestimated when monitoring the mental health of children with ASD. Full article

In urban logistics, effective maintenance is crucial for maintaining the reliability and efficiency of energy supply systems, impacting both asset performance and operational stability. This paper addresses the scheduling and routing plans for maintenance of power generation assets over a multi-period horizon. We model this problem as a multi-period team orienteering problem. To address this multi-period challenge, we propose a dual approach: a novel reinforcement learning (RL) framework and a biased-randomized heuristic algorithm. The RL-based method dynamically learns from real-time operational data and evolving asset conditions, adapting to changes in asset health and failure probabilities to optimize decision making. In addition, we develop and apply a biased-randomized heuristic algorithm designed to provide effective solutions within practical computational limits. Our approach is validated through a series of computational experiments comparing the RL model and the heuristic algorithm. The results demonstrate that, when properly trained, the RL-based model is able to offer equivalent or even superior performance compared to the heuristic algorithm. Full article

Social media users often express their emotions through text in posts and tweets, and these can be used for sentiment analysis, identifying text as positive or negative. Sentiment analysis is critical for different fields such as politics, tourism, e-commerce, education, and health. However, sentiment analysis approaches that perform well on English text encounter challenges with Arabic text due to its morphological complexity. Effective data preprocessing and machine learning techniques are essential to overcome these challenges and provide insightful sentiment predictions for Arabic text. This paper evaluates a combined CNN-LSTM framework with emoji encoding for Arabic Sentiment Analysis, using the Arabic Sentiment Twitter Corpus (ASTC) dataset. Three experiments were conducted with eight-parameter fusion approaches to evaluate the effect of data preprocessing, namely the effect of emoji encoding on their real and emotional meaning. Emoji meanings were collected from four websites specialized in finding the meaning of emojis in social media. Furthermore, the Keras tuner optimized the CNN-LSTM parameters during the 5-fold cross-validation process. The highest accuracy rate (91.85%) was achieved by keeping non-Arabic words and removing punctuation, using the Snowball stemmer after encoding emojis into Arabic text, and applying Keras embedding. This approach is competitive with other state-of-the-art approaches, showing that emoji encoding enriches text by accurately reflecting emotions, and enabling investigation of the effect of data preprocessing, allowing the hybrid model to achieve comparable results to the study using the same ASTC dataset, thereby improving sentiment analysis accuracy. Full article

Fish allergy is a significant health concern, with diagnosis and management complicated by diverse fish species and allergens. We conducted a comprehensive RNA-seq analysis of eight fish species to identify allergen profiles, integrating ImmunoCAP sIgE data to explore associations with allergen expression and diagnostic performance. Over 30 putative fish allergens were identified, with varying sequence similarities and expression levels, roughly classifying fish into two groups based on parvalbumin (PV) expression. Higher similarities in allergen expression correlated with stronger sIgE data relationships among fish extracts. High PV expression and conserved PV sequences were linked to elevated sIgE measurements, potentially indicating higher allergenicity. For diagnosis, species-specific extract sIgE remained the best indicator of corresponding fish allergy diagnosis, while incorporating multiple sIgE data enhanced performance. In component-resolved diagnosis (CRD), the current panel with PV alone showed comparable performance to fish extract for PV-high fish allergy, while PV-low fish may require the inclusion of more minor allergens for improved CRD accuracy. This RNA-seq allergen analysis helps reveal fish allergen profiles, classify fish groups, and predict allergenicity, potentially improving CRD design and food management in fish allergy. Full article