Treatment and monitoring of a high-density population of bare-nosed wombats for sarcoptic mange

by Tanya N. Leary, Lyn Kaye, Olivia Chin, Kar Yee Phoon, David Phalen

Sarcoptes scabiei causes a fatal disease (mange) in bare-nosed wombats (BNWs) (Vombatus ursinus) across their range and can threaten isolated populations with extinction. Repeated dosing of moxidectin (Cydectin®) at a dosage rate of 0.5 mg/kg is effective at treating individual BNWs but is difficult to administer on a population basis where treatment success has varied. This paper documents the temporary (~20 month) eradication of mange from a semi-isolated population of BNWs using repeated dosing of Cydectin® administered by burrow flaps. Treated BNWs were marked with nontoxic paint and selected burrows were monitored with camera traps demonstrating that 64–96% of wombats in the population were treated with each dosage. Treatment success was attributed to the installation of burrow flaps on all burrows in the treated area. This treatment program shows that isolated high-density populations can be successfully treated for S. scabiei infection with repeated dosages of Cydectin® (0.5 mg/kg) and questions the need for higher dosages that have been advocated. Mange returned to the population of BNWs after 20 months possibly as the result of migration of an infected BNW from a nearby population, suggesting mange affected populations may require periodic retreatment. Monitoring of burrow entrances confirmed that burrows provide habitat used by many species of birds, reptiles, and mammals, and suggest burrows could be occasional sites of mange spillover among species. Camera trap monitoring also showed when BNWs in this population leave and return to their burrows; how many BNWs enter a burrow and explore the burrow entrances each night; and how these parameters are impacted by season and mange status; variables that are valuable to know when treating populations of BNW for mange.

Work engagement and its association with emotional intelligence and demographic characteristics among nurses in Palestinian neonatal intensive care units

by Ibrahim Aqtam, Ahmad Ayed, Ahmad Batran, Moath Abu Ejheisheh, Riham H. Melhem, Mustafa Shouli

Introduction

Work engagement, defined as a positive, fulfilling, work-related state of mind characterized by vigor, dedication, and absorption, is crucial for nurse retention and quality of care in high-stress environments. Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs) present unique emotional and psychological challenges for nurses, necessitating skills like emotional intelligence (EI) to enhance work engagement. This study investigates the association between EI, demographic factors, and work engagement among Palestinian NICU nurses.

Methods

A cross-sectional, descriptive correlational design was employed during February-April 2025. Of 230 nurses invited, 207 completed the survey (response rate = 90.2%) across 12 Palestinian NICUs using convenience sampling. Data analysis was conducted using descriptive statistics, Pearson’s correlation, and multiple linear regression via SPSS v26. Validated tools, the Schutte Self-Report Emotional Intelligence Test (SSEIT) and Utrecht Work Engagement Scale (UWES), were used.

Results

Emotional intelligence (EI) demonstrated a strong positive correlation with work engagement (r = 0.693, p B = 0.463, β = 0.535, p = 0.002), female gender (B = −2.250, β = −0.115, p = 0.017), and rotating shifts (B = 1.579, β = 0.105, p = 0.028) were significant predictors. EI was the strongest predictor (B = 0.358, β = 0.593, p M = 47.3 ± 5.8).

Discussion

The findings demonstrate strong associations between EI and engagement in high-stress NICU environments. Based on these findings, we propose implementing comprehensive EI training programs in nursing curricula, establishing mentorship programs to address age-related disparities, and developing gender-sensitive workplace policies to optimize work engagement and improve patient care quality.

Migrant-friendly maternity care in Montreal, Canada: A cross-sectional study on migrant women’s care perspectives

by Isabel Baltzan, Lisa Merry, William Fraser, Sonia Semenic, Sandra Pelaez, Alexis Edington, Ayesha Baig, Anita Gagnon

Objective

We assessed the extent to which recommended migrant-friendly maternity care (MFMC) components were provided to recently-arrived international migrants giving birth in Montreal, Canada, and the extent to which the provision of MFMC components was related to socioeconomic and migratory characteristics.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional study of migrant women giving birth in four hospitals in 2014–2015. Data were collected using the Migrant-Friendly Maternity Care Questionnaire (MFMCQ), focusing on access to prenatal care, communication facilitation, healthcare provider (HCP) support, and responsiveness to preferences for care. Data were analyzed descriptively and through logistic regression.

Results

Of 2636 participants, most reported always being kept informed (86.1%) and finding HCPs helpful (90.3%), although 22.9% reported barriers to accessing services during pregnancy, and only 11% or less were asked about care preferences. Of 847 needing interpreters, 84.7% reported not being offered any. Worse access to prenatal care was reported among women who had arrived more recently [OR 0.55, 95% CI 0.36, 0.85], had lower income [0.69 (0.52, 0.90)], or had less education [0.66 (0.47, 0.94)]. Low language ability was most often associated with inadequate MFMC [e.g., worse HCP support during pregnancy [0.56 (0.36, 0.87)] and worse responsiveness to preferences for care during labour [0.55 (0.31, 0.98)]]. Maternal region of birth was associated both positively and negatively with all MFMC components.

Conclusion

Although some MFMC has been implemented, gaps remain. Addressing language barriers remains a top priority. To deliver optimal MFMC, HCPs and policymakers should provide care that is responsive to women’s socioeconomic and migratory backgrounds.

Malaria, urogenital schistosomiasis and co-infection and nutritional status of school children in Ondo state

by Esther Mofiyinfoluwa Ola, Temitope Helen Balogun, Rasheed Olayinka Isijola, Oluwaremilekun Grace Ajakaye

Parasitic infections are a major cause of morbidity and mortality in Nigeria, with malaria and schistosomiasis having the highest burden. This study investigated the prevalence of malaria, urogenital schistosomiasis, and co-infections and their impact on the nutritional status of schoolchildren in two communities in Ondo State. A total of 185 participants from Ipogun and Oke Igbo were screened for malaria and schistosomiasis infection using the ParaHit malaria rapid diagnostic test kit and urine microscopy. Anthropometric measurements were used to assess the nutritional status of the participants. In this study, a higher prevalence of malaria was recorded in Oke Igbo, with 36 individuals (57.1%), compared to 60 individuals (49.2%) in Ipogun. Urogenital schistosomiasis was also more prevalent in Oke Igbo, affecting 18 individuals (28.6%), while only 5 individuals (4.1%) were affected in Ipogun. Co-infection with both diseases was more common in Oke Igbo, with 13 cases (20.6%), compared to 4 cases (3.3%) in Ipogun. However, malnutrition rates were similar between the two communities, with 60 cases (77.9%) in Ipogun and 28 cases (75.5%) in Oke Igbo. Notably, participants with either malaria or urogenital schistosomiasis, as well as those co-infected, exhibited a higher frequency of chronic malnutrition. The likelihood of co-infection was significantly associated with gender and locality, with individuals in Oke Igbo being 0.78 times less likely to be co-infected (P = 0.00; CI = 0.09–0.49), while males were 2.19 times more likely to have co-infections (P = 0.02; CI = 1.13–4.28). This study emphasised the significant health burden posed by malaria and urogenital schistosomiasis co-infections among schoolchildren in Ondo State, highlighting the need for comprehensive health and nutritional interventions to address the challenges associated with these parasitic diseases.

Spatial distribution and factors associated with coexisting undernutrition among under-five children in Ethiopia: Evidence from the 2019 Mini-Demographic and Health Survey

by Meklit Melaku Bezie, Getayeneh Antehunegn Tesema

Background

Undernutrition remains a critical public health issue in Ethiopia, driving high under-five morbidity and mortality. Coexisting forms; stunting, wasting, and underweight magnify these risks but their spatial patterns and determinants remain poorly understood. This study investigates the geographic distribution and key factors of coexisting undernutrition among Ethiopian children under five to inform targeted, geographic-specific interventions.

Methods

We conducted a secondary data analysis of the 2019 Ethiopia Mini Demographic and Health Survey (EMDHS), including a weighted sample of 4,952 children under five years of age. Spatial analysis was employed to explore the geographic distribution of coexisting forms of undernutrition, and significant spatial clusters were identified using SaTScan version 10. To examine associated factors, a multilevel binary logistic regression model was fitted. Variables with a p-value  Results

The national prevalence of coexisting forms of undernutrition among children under five in Ethiopia was 19.6% (95% CI: 18.5,20.7), with marked regional disparities ranging from 5.2% in Addis Ababa to 30.7% in the Afar region. Spatial analysis identified a significant high-risk cluster spanning Afar, Amhara, Tigray, Benishangul-Gumuz, and northern Somali regions (Log-Likelihood Ratio [LLR] = 38.83, p  Conclusion

Significant geographic disparities in coexisting undernutrition among Ethiopian children under five highlight urgent hotspots in Afar, Amhara, Tigray, Benishangul, and northern Somali regions. Protective factors such as maternal education, household wealth, and female sex, while multiple births and poverty were risk factors. These findings highlight the need for geographically targeted interventions focused on hotspot areas, with an emphasis on improving maternal education and alleviating poverty to reduce coexisting forms of undernutrition and enhance child survival.

Time-dependent predictors of loss to follow-up in HIV care in low-resource settings: A competing risks approach

by Tamrat Endebu Gebre, Girma Taye, Wakgari Deressa

Loss to follow-up (LTFU) remains a major challenge in HIV care, particularly in resource-limited settings. While several studies have identified its predictors, many have neglected the competing risks of transfer out and death, as well as the dynamic influence of these predictors over time. A retrospective cohort study was conducted among adult HIV patients who initiated antiretroviral therapy (ART) between 2019 and 2024. LTFU was a primary outcome, whereas transfer out and death were competing risks. A Fine‒Gray subdistribution hazard ratio (SHR) regression analysis identified LTFU predictors within a competing risk framework. An extended SHR model with a time‒covariate interaction term was used to examine the predictors’ time‒varying effects on LTFU risk. Data analysis was performed via STATA 17 and Python 3.9. In a cohort of 4,135 HIV patients (8,521.54 person-years of follow-up), the overall incidence of LTFU was 13.10 per 100 person-years (95% CI: 12.35–13.89), with cumulative risks of 15%, 25%, and 35% at 1, 3, and 5 years post-ART, respectively. The predictors of LTFU included younger age (15–24 years: aSHR = 1.51), male sex (aSHR = 1.24), incomplete address details (aSHR = 1.72), noninitiation/noncompletion of TPT (aSHR = 2.16), poor adherence (aSHR = 2.54), and undernutrition (aSHR = 2.03). While younger age (e.g., 15–24 years) was associated with an increased risk of LTFU at baseline (baseline aSHR = 1.36, p = 0.014), this association diminished over time (interaction aSHR = 0.54, p = 0.001). Undernutrition consistently predicted LTFU (baseline aSHR = 1.64, p 

The effect of camel milk on house dust mite allergen induced asthma model in BALB/C mice

by Ayaulym Rakhmatulina, Shynar Kenenbay, Altynay Abuova, Maigul Kizatova, Akniyet Ibraikhan, Farrukh Makhmudov, Aitugan Mukashev, Aigerim Aitbaeva, Zhastalap Abilkaiyr, Galiya Ibadullayeva, Urishbay Chomanov, Akhmet Murzabulatov, Sanavar Azimova, Altyn Kulpiisova, Svetlana Bayantassova, Nurbek Aralbayev, Nurbibi Imanbayeva, Fatima Dikhanbayeva, Nadezhda Burambayeva, Nazgul Smagulova, Arman Issimov, Peter White

Camel milk has demonstrated robust immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory properties in various clinical and experimental studies. However, no previous studies have characterized the cellular immunological effects of camel milk in the context of allergic asthma. Therefore, the present work aimed to evaluate the protective effects of camel milk in house dust mite induced asthma in mice, which emulate human pulmonary inflammation. Female BALB/c mice aged 8- to 10-week-old were intranasally sensitized with vehicle or HDM in 2.5 µl (5 µg) per nostril, 5 days a week for 3 weeks. On day 22, mice received an HDM challenge by a large volume but low dose into the lung (5 µg in 50µl) using intranasal inoculation. Using oral gavage technique, CM/HDM group mice received 0.5 ml of camel milk or vehicle five times a week, starting a day prior to sensitization. On day 23 following HDM challenge, mice were exposed to serial challenges with 10, 20, 40 and 100 mg/ml aerosolized methacholine to measure lung dynamics. Furthermore, BALF and whole lung samples were harvested to examine pulmonary inflammation. Camel milk effectively inhibited both HDM-induced infiltration of eosinophils and AHR. In addition to this, camel milk downregulates the number of pulmonary Th2 and Th17 cells and suppressed CCL17 expression in whole lung homogenates. Furthermore, camel milk reduced HDM-induced IL-4 and IL-13 expression following in vitro restimulation of pulmonary T cell subsets. Additionally, camel milk suppressed total concentrations of IL-5 and IL-13 in the lung. These results corroborate the asthma-preventive potential of camel milk and highlight the significance of diminished local concentrations of Th2- associated cytokines. In the present study, the observed downregulation of asthma progression by camel milk suggests its potential health benefits; however, further experimental and controlled clinical trials are needed before it can be considered a supplementary approach for allergic asthma management.

Prevalence, pathogenic bacteria, and risk factors associated with pediatric sepsis among under five children in a rural district hospital in Rwanda

by Patrick Orikiriza, Deogratius Ruhangaza, David S. Ayebare, Ezechiel Bizimana, Jean Baptiste Niyibizi, Irene Nshimiyimana, Louis Mujyuwisha, Abebe Bekele

Background

Pediatric sepsis poses a significant health challenge in Sub-Saharan Africa, with limited data on prevalence and pathogen profiles. This study determined the prevalence of pediatric sepsis, identified bacterial pathogens, and evaluated associated risk factors among children aged 1–59 months at Butaro Hospital, Rwanda.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted from March 2022 to December 2022. The study included 114 children aged 1–59 months with suspected sepsis admitted to the pediatric ward at Butaro Hospital. Blood cultures were analyzed, and risk factors assessed using multiple logistic regression. Data were analyzed using Stata 17.

Results

Of 114 enrolled children, 60.5% (n = 69) had positive blood cultures (95% CI: 51.2–69.1). Among these 69 children, the majority were females, 70.0% (n = 35) (95% CI: 53.7–81.3) and below 6 months 68.1% (n = 15) (95% CI: 45.3–84.7). Pathogenic bacteria identified were Coagulase-Negative Staphylococci (CNS), 59.4% (n = 41) and Staphylococcus aureus, 40.6% (n = 28). Female gender (AOR = 2.4, 95% CI: 1.0–5.4, p = 0.045) and leukocytosis (AOR = 6.0, 95% CI: 2.0–20.2, p = 0.003) were the risk factors for sepsis.

Conclusions

The study reveals a high prevalence of sepsis among children under-five, especially females and less than 6 months with female gender and diagnosis with leukocytosis being a significant risk factor. Diagnostic strategies should focus on WBC counts to better manage at-risk children. These single-center study results however may not be broadly representative due to regional and resource differences, but they offer valuable insights for improving pediatric care in similar low-resource settings.

Spatial distribution of mixed milk feeding and its determinants among mothers of infants aged under 6 months in Ethiopia: Spatial and geographical weighted regression analysis

by Mekuriaw Nibret Aweke, Muluken Chanie Agimas, Moges Tadesse Abebe, Tigabu Kidie Tesfie, Meron Asmamaw Alemayehu, Werkneh Melkie Tilahun, Gebrie Getu Alemu, Worku Necho Asferie

Background

Mixed milk feeding is defined as providing formula and/or animal milk along with breast milk to infants under six months old which is prevalent in many countries. However, this practice is generally not recommended as it can reduce the intake of breast milk, depriving the infant of its optimal nutritional and immunological benefits. Unlike formula, breast milk contains complex bioactive constituents that promote intestinal and pancreatic growth and develop mucosal defenses. The aim of this study was to analyze the spatial distribution and predictors of MMF practices in Ethiopia.

Methods

This study utilized data from the 2019 Mini-Ethiopian Demographic and Health Survey (MiniEDHS), a nationally representative cross-sectional survey conducted from March to June 2019. The total weighted sample size derived from the data examined in this study amounted to 524 infants. The data analysis used Global Moran’s I for spatial autocorrelation and the Getis-Ord Gi * statistic for local cluster analysis to assess the spatial distribution of mixed milk feeding prevalence across Ethiopia’s administrative regions and cities. Empirical Bayesian Kriging was used for spatial interpolation to estimate mixed milk feeding prevalence in unsampled areas. The analysis utilized a maximum spatial cluster size threshold of 50% of the population to detect clusters of varying sizes. Ordinary least squares regression analysis identified significant spatial predictors. In geographically weighted regression analysis, the effect of predictor variables on the spatial variation of mixed milk feeding was detected using local coefficients.

Results

The overall weighted prevalence of Mixed Milk Feeding (MMF) in Ethiopia was 10.12% (95% CI: 7.8, 13.01). This prevalence shows significant regional variations across the country emphasizing regional disparities in prevalence and distribution. The Global Moran’s I statistic was 0.14, with a Z-score of 3.18 and a p-value of Conclusion

The study found significant regional variations in mixed milk feeding practices in Ethiopia. Households with middle wealth index and baby without postnatal check were significant spatial predictors of mixed milk feeding. To reduce mixed milk feeding prevalence, targeted interventions should engage community leaders, enhance breastfeeding education in maternal health services, and integrate counseling into routine healthcare to support informed maternal choices and improve child health outcomes nationwide.

Blood transfusion service readiness and its associated factors in health facilities providing blood transfusion services across Ethiopia: A secondary analysis of the 2018 Service Availability and Readiness Assessment (SARA) survey

by Tirualem Asmare Fenta, Gizachew Tadele Tiruneh, Nebiyou Fasil Ayele

Introduction

Timely and safe blood transfusion services are crucial for saving lives in emergencies. Previous studies have focused on hospital inpatient care access but have overlooked blood transfusion service readiness. This study examined the readiness of blood transfusion services in health facilities across Ethiopia and its determinants.

Methods

This study used Service Availability and Readiness Assessment (SARA) 2018 data from 632 facilities. Readiness was measured based on seven components: the presence of at least one trained staff for appropriate use of blood and safe transfusion; guidelines for appropriate use and transfusion; blood storage refrigerator; blood typing; cross-match typing; blood supply safety; and blood supply sufficiency. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Facility characteristics were summarized using frequency tables and summary statistics. Bivariate and multivariable linear regression analyses examined the predictors of service readiness.

Results

Facilities offering blood transfusion services had a mean readiness score of 4.5 (out of 7), with only 5% having all items. Most facilities performed blood typing, but less than one-third conducted cross-match testing, and over half lacked guidelines and trained staff. Service readiness varied significantly across regions. Facilities in Oromia (Coef.: -0.74; 95% CI: [-1.32, -0.15]) and Somali (Coef.: -1.26; 95% CI: [-2.21, -0.31]) had lower readiness scores compared to Addis Ababa. Increased availability of medical equipment corresponded to a 49% increase in readiness scores (Coef.: 0.49; 95% CI: [0.19, 0.79]).

Conclusion

The study highlights deficiencies in blood transfusion service readiness and regional disparities, emphasizing the need for targeted support to enhance readiness across regions.

Benzothiazinone analogs as Anti-<i>Mycobacterium tuberculosis</i> DprE1 irreversible inhibitors: Covalent docking, validation, and molecular dynamics simulations

by Mahmoud A. A. Ibrahim, Doaa G. M. Mahmoud, Alaa H. M. Abdelrahman, Khlood A. A. Abdeljawaad, Gamal A. H. Mekhemer, Tamer Shoeib, Mohamed A. El-Tayeb, Peter A. Sidhom, Paul W. Paré, Mohamed-Elamir F. Hegazy

Mycobacterium tuberculosis is a lethal human pathogen, with the key flavoenzyme for catalyzing bacterial cell-wall biosynthesis, decaprenylphosphoryl-D-ribose oxidase (DprE1), considered an Achilles heal for tuberculosis (TB) progression. Inhibition of DprE1 blocks cell wall biosynthesis and is a highly promising antitubercular target. Macozinone (PBTZ169, a benzothiazinone (BTZ) derivative) is an irreversible DprE1 inhibitor that has attracted considerable attention because it exhibits an additive activity when combined with other anti-TB drugs. Herein, 754 BTZ analogs were assembled in a virtual library and evaluated against the DprE1 target using a covalent docking approach. After validation of the employed covalent docking approach, BTZ analogs were screened. Analogs with a docking score less than –9.0 kcal/mol were advanced for molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, followed by binding energy evaluations utilizing the MM-GBSA approach. Three BTZ analogs–namely, PubChem-155-924-621, PubChem-127-032-794, and PubChem-155-923-972– exhibited higher binding affinities against DprE1 compared to PBTZ169 with ΔG_binding values of –77.2, –74.3, and –65.4 kcal/mol, versus –49.8 kcal/mol, respectively. Structural and energetical analyses were performed for the identified analogs against DprE1 throughout the 100 ns MD simulations, and the results demonstrated the great stability of the identified BTZ analogs. Physicochemical and ADMET characteristics indicated the oral bioavailability of the identified BTZ analogs. The obtained in-silico results provide promising anti-TB inhibitors that are worth being subjected to in-vitro and in-vivo investigations.

Work-related stress among financial professionals: The impact of age, work experience and education

by Talgat Kutebayev, Zhanna Utaliyeva, Marina Sautenkova, Gulnara Aizhanova

Objective

The aim of this study was to investigate the differences in the level and sources of work-related stress among financial professionals regarding age, work experience, and educational level.

Methods

A cross-sectional research design was employed among 702 financial professionals in Kazakhstan who worked in different corporate and government organizations. Data on work-related stress were collected via online questionnaires using the Job Stress Survey (JSS).

Results

The results showed that young financial professionals experienced higher stress than older professionals due to the lack of opportunity for advancement. Moreover, the study findings revealed that less experienced financial professionals reported higher levels of stress than more experienced professionals due to the meeting deadlines and conflicts with other departments. The study also found that financial professionals with a postgraduate degree stressed more than professionals with an undergraduate degree on major JSS scales. Furthermore, financial professionals with a postgraduate degree experienced higher stress due to the assignment of disagreeable duties, working overtime, lack of opportunity for advancement, inadequate support by supervisor, dealing with crisis situations, lack of recognition for good work, difficulty getting along with supervisor, insufficient personnel to adequately handle an assignment, lack of participation in policy-making decisions, inadequate salary, excessive paperwork, and covering work for another employee than professionals with undergraduate and vocational degrees.

Conclusion

The findings of this study provide valuable insights for organizations to eliminate and alleviate work-related stress.

A DFT investigation on the potential of beryllium oxide (Be₁₂O₁₂) as a nanocarrier for nucleobases

by Mahmoud A. A. Ibrahim, Maggie N. S. Hanna, Al-shimaa S. M. Rady, Peter A. Sidhom, Shaban R. M. Sayed, Mohamed A. El-Tayeb, Ahmed M. Awad, Hatem Tallima, Tamer Shoeib

The study of the interactions between biomolecules and nanostructures is quite fascinating. Herein, the adsorption propensity of beryllium oxide (Be₁₂O₁₂) nanocarrier toward nucleobases (NBs) was investigated. In terms of DFT calculations, the adsorption tendency of Be₁₂O₁₂ toward NBs, including cytosine (NB-C), guanine (NB-G), adenine (NB-A), thymine (NB-T), and uracil (NB-U), was unveiled through various configurations. Geometrical, electronic, and energetic features for Be₁₂O₁₂, NBs, and their associated complexes were thoroughly evaluated at M06-2X/6-311+G** level of theory. The potent adsorption process within NBs∙∙∙Be₁₂O₁₂ complexes was noticed through favorable interaction (E_int) and adsorption (E_ads) energies with values up to –53.04 and –38.30 kcal/mol, respectively. Generally, a significant adsorption process was observed for all studied complexes, and the favorability followed the order: NB-C∙∙∙ > NB-G∙∙∙ > NB-A∙∙∙ > NB-T∙∙∙ > NB-U∙∙∙Be₁₂O₁₂ complexes. Out of all studied complexes, the most potent adsorption was found for NB-C∙∙∙Be₁₂O₁₂ complex within configuration A (E_int = –53.04 kcal/mol). In terms of energy decomposition, SAPT analysis revealed electrostatic (E_elst) forces to be dominant within the studied adsorption process with values up to –99.88 kcal/mol. Analyzing QTAIM and NCI, attractive intermolecular interactions within the studied complexes were affirmed. From negative values of thermodynamic parameters, the nature of the considered adsorption process was revealed to be spontaneous and exothermic. Regarding density of state, IR, and Raman analyses, the occurrence of the adsorption process within NBs∙∙∙Be₁₂O₁₂ complexes was confirmed. Noticeable short recovery time values were observed for all studied complexes, confirming the occurrence of the desorption process. The findings provided fundamental insights into the potential application of Be₁₂O₁₂ nanocarrier in drug and gene delivery processes.

An interactive AI-driven platform for fish age reading

by Arjay Cayetano, Christoph Stransky, Andreas Birk, Thomas Brey

Fish age is an important biological variable required as part of routine stock assessment and analysis of fish population dynamics. Age estimates are traditionally obtained by human experts from the count of ring-like patterns along calcified structures such as otoliths. To automate the process and minimize human bias, modern methods have been designed utilizing the advances in the field of artificial intelligence (AI). While many AI-based methods have been shown to attain satisfactory accuracy, there are concerns regarding the lack of explainability of some early implementations. Consequently, new explainable AI-based approaches based on U-Net and Mask R-CNN have been recently published having direct compatibility with traditional ring counting procedures. Here we further extend this endeavor by creating an interactive website housing these explainable AI methods allowing age readers to be directly involved in the AI training and development. An important aspect of the platform presented in this article is that it allows the additional use of different advanced concepts of Machine Learning (ML) such as transfer learning, ensemble learning and continual learning, which are all shown to be effective in this study.

Spatial patterns and predictors of missing key contents of care during prenatal visits in Ethiopia: Spatial and multilevel analyses

by Aklilu Habte Hailegebireal, Habtamu Mellie Bizuayehu, Yordanos Sisay Asgedom, Jira Wakoya Feyisa

Background

Quality Antenatal Care (ANC) is considered if pregnant women have access to essential services that align with the best evidence-based practice. Although several studies have been conducted on ANC uptake in Ethiopia, they have focused on the timing and number of visits and the level of complete uptake of care contents according to the WHO recommendation remains scarce. Hence, this study aimed to assess the magnitude of missing care content during ANC visits, its spatial variations, and individual- and community-level determinants in Ethiopia.

Methods

The study was conducted using the 2016 Ethiopian Demographic and Health Survey and included a total weighted sample of 4,771 women who gave birth within five years before the survey. Spatial analysis was carried out using Arc-GIS version 10.7 and SaTScan version 9.6 statistical software. Spatial autocorrelation (Moran’s I) was checked to determine the non-randomness of the spatial variation in the missing contents of care. Multilevel multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed using STATA version 16. The adjusted odds ratio (aOR) with its corresponding 95% CI was used as a measure of association.

Results

The prevalence of missing full contents of ANC in Ethiopia was 88.2% (95% CI: 87.2, 89.0), with significant spatial variations observed across regions. Missing essential contents of care was higher among women who live in rural areas (aOR = 1.68, 95% CI: 1.47, 2.71), not completed formal education (aOR = 1.94, 95% CI:1.24, 3.02), late initiation of ANC (aOR = 3.05, 95% CI:1.59, 6.54), attended only one ANC (aOR = 4.13, 95% CI: 1.95, 8.74), and not having a mobile phone (aOR = 1.44, 95% CI: 1.07, 1.95).

Conclusion

The level of missing care content during prenatal visits was high in Ethiopia, with significant spatial variation across regions. Health systems and policymakers should promote early initiation and encourage multiple visits to provide optimal care to pregnant women. In addition, it is vital to focus on enhancing education and healthcare infrastructure in rural parts of the country.

Incidence and predictors of tuberculosis among HIV-infected children after initiation of antiretroviral therapy in Ethiopia: A systematic review and meta-analysis

by Amare Kassaw, Worku Necho Asferie, Molla Azmeraw, Demewoz Kefale, Gashaw Kerebih, Gebrehiwot Berie Mekonnen, Fikadie Dagnew Baye, Shegaw Zeleke, Biruk Beletew, Solomon Demis Kebede, Tigabu Munye Aytenew, Lakachew Yismaw Bazezew, Muluken Chanie Agimas

Background

Globally, Tuberculosis (TB) is the main cause of morbidity and mortality among infectious disease. TB and Human Immune Virus (HIV) are the two deadly pandemics which interconnected each other tragically, and jeopardize the lives of children; particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa. Therefore, this review was aimed to determine the aggregated national pooled incidence of tuberculosis among HIV- infected children and its predictors in Ethiopia.

Methods

An electronic search engine (HINARI, PubMed, Scopus, web of science), Google scholar and free Google databases were searched to find eligible studies. Quality of the studies was checked using the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) quality assessment checklists for cohort studies. Heterogeneity between studies was evaluated using Cochrane Q-test and the I² statistics.

Result

This review revealed that the pooled national incidence of tuberculosis among children with HIV after initiation of ART was 3.63% (95% CI: 2.726–4.532) per 100-person-years observations. Being Anemic, poor and fair ART adherence, advanced WHO clinical staging, missing of cotrimoxazole and isoniazid preventing therapy, low CD4 cell count, and undernutrition were significant predictors of tuberculosis incidence.

Conclusion

The study result indicated that the incidence of TB among HIV- infected children is still high. Therefore, parents/guardians should strictly follow and adjust nutritional status of their children to boost immunity, prevent undernutrition and opportunistic infections. Cotrimoxazole and isoniazid preventive therapy need to continually provide for HIV- infected children for the sake of enhancing CD4/immune cells, reduce viral load, and prevent from advanced disease stages. Furthermore, clinicians and parents strictly follow ART adherence.

Distribution and dynamics of <i>Anopheles gambiae</i> s.l. larval habitats in three Senegalese cities with high urban malaria incidence

by Fatou Ndiaye, Abdoulaye Diop, Joseph Chabi, Katherine Sturm-Ramirez, Massila Senghor, El Hadji Diouf, Badara Samb, Seynabou Mocote Diedhiou, Omar Thiaw, Sarah Zohdy, Ellen Dotson, Doudou Sene, Mame Birame Diouf, Valerie Koscelnik, Lilia Gerberg, Abdoulaye Bangoura, Tiffany Clark, Ousmane Faye, Ibrahima Dia, Lassana Konate, El Hadji Amadou Niang

Urban malaria has become a challenge for most African countries due to urbanization, with increasing population sizes, overcrowding, and movement into cities from rural localities. The rapid expansion of cities with inappropriate water drainage systems, abundance of water storage habitats, coupled with recurrent flooding represents a concern for water-associated vector borne diseases, including malaria. This situation could threaten progress made towards malaria elimination in sub-Saharan countries, including Senegal, where urban malaria has presented as a threat to national elimination gains. To assess drivers of urban malaria in Senegal, a 5-month study was carried out from August to December 2019 in three major urban areas and hotspots for malaria incidence (Diourbel, Touba, and Kaolack) including the rainy season (August-October) and partly dry season (November–December). The aim was to characterize malaria vector larval habitats, vector dynamics across both seasons, and to identify the primary eco- environmental entomological factors contributing to observed urban malaria transmission. A total of 145 Anopheles larval habitats were found, mapped, and monitored monthly. This included 32 in Diourbel, 83 in Touba, and 30 in Kaolack. The number of larval habitats fluctuated seasonally, with a decrease during the dry season. In Diourbel, 22 of the 32 monitored larval habitats (68.75%) were dried out by December and considered temporary, while the remaining 10 (31.25%) were classified as permanent. In the city of Touba 28 (33.73%) were temporary habitats, and of those 57%, 71% and 100% dried up respectively by October, November, and December. However, 55 (66.27%) habitats were permanent water storage basins which persisted throughout the study. In Kaolack, 12 (40%) permanent and 18 (60%) temporary Anopheles larval habitats were found and monitored during the study. Three malaria vectors (An. arabiensis, An. pharoensis and An. funestus s.l.) were found across the surveyed larval habitats, and An. arabiensis was found in all three cities and was the only species found in the city of Diourbel, while An. arabiensis, An. pharoensis, and An. funestus s.l. were detected in the cities of Touba and Kaolack. The spatiotemporal observations of immature malaria vectors in Senegal provide evidence of permanent productive malaria vector larval habitats year-round in three major urban centers in Senegal, which may be driving high urban malaria incidence. This study aimed to assess the presence and type of anopheline larvae habitats in urban areas. The preliminary data will better inform subsequent detailed additional studies and seasonally appropriate, cost-effective, and sustainable larval source management (LSM) strategies by the National Malaria Control Programme (NMCP).

Mental-somatic multimorbidity in trajectories of cognitive function for middle-aged and older adults

by Siting Chen, Corey L. Nagel, Ruotong Liu, Anda Botoseneanu, Heather G. Allore, Jason T. Newsom, Stephen Thielke, Jeffrey Kaye, Ana R. Quiñones

Introduction

Multimorbidity may confer higher risk for cognitive decline than any single constituent disease. This study aims to identify distinct trajectories of cognitive impairment probability among middle-aged and older adults, and to assess the effect of changes in mental-somatic multimorbidity on these distinct trajectories.

Methods

Data from the Health and Retirement Study (1998–2016) were employed to estimate group-based trajectory models identifying distinct trajectories of cognitive impairment probability. Four time-varying mental-somatic multimorbidity combinations (somatic, stroke, depressive, stroke and depressive) were examined for their association with observed trajectories of cognitive impairment probability with age. Multinomial logistic regression analysis was conducted to quantify the association of sociodemographic and health-related factors with trajectory group membership.

Results

Respondents (N = 20,070) had a mean age of 61.0 years (SD = 8.7) at baseline. Three distinct cognitive trajectories were identified using group-based trajectory modelling: (1) Low risk with late-life increase (62.6%), (2) Low initial risk with rapid increase (25.7%), and (3) High risk (11.7%). For adults following along Low risk with late-life increase, the odds of cognitive impairment for stroke and depressive multimorbidity (OR:3.92, 95%CI:2.91,5.28) were nearly two times higher than either stroke multimorbidity (OR:2.06, 95%CI:1.75,2.43) or depressive multimorbidity (OR:2.03, 95%CI:1.71,2.41). The odds of cognitive impairment for stroke and depressive multimorbidity in Low initial risk with rapid increase or High risk (OR:4.31, 95%CI:3.50,5.31; OR:3.43, 95%CI:2.07,5.66, respectively) were moderately higher than stroke multimorbidity (OR:2.71, 95%CI:2.35, 3.13; OR: 3.23, 95%CI:2.16, 4.81, respectively). In the multinomial logistic regression model, non-Hispanic Black and Hispanic respondents had higher odds of being in Low initial risk with rapid increase and High risk relative to non-Hispanic White adults.

Conclusions

These findings show that depressive and stroke multimorbidity combinations have the greatest association with rapid cognitive declines and their prevention may postpone these declines, especially in socially disadvantaged and minoritized groups.