Search Results (107)

Women’s decision-making autonomy is widely recognized as a critical determinant of maternal, newborn, and child health (MNCH). However, prevailing measures often conflate genuine autonomy with decisions made within traditional gender roles, risking an overstatement of women’s empowerment. This study examines the extent to which reported female decision-making autonomy reflects authentic agency versus role-based compliance in a patriarchal context. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 280 male household heads in Kakamega County, Kenya, whose partners were pregnant or recently postpartum. Using multi-stage cluster sampling and structured interviews, men reported on household and MNCH decision-making and their rationales, categorized as gender-role conformity, belief in gender equality, or other reasons. Although 40.4% reported that their partners made decisions independently, only 11.4% attributed it to a belief in women’s equality; 28% framed it within traditional gender roles. Men were over four times more likely to perceive women’s decisions as role-based than autonomous (AOR = 4.40; 95% CI: 2.48–5.78). Younger men (18–34) were more likely to report female decision-making (AOR = 5.54; 95% CI: 5.08–7.27), without necessarily endorsing egalitarian norms. Findings highlight the urgent need for gender-transformative MNCH interventions that move beyond surface-level autonomy to address deeper structural inequities. Full article

In this study, camel milk (CM) and Gir cow milk (GCM) were fermented through cofermentation via yeast–lactic cultures, i.e., Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus (M9, MTCC 25516) and Saccharomyces cerevisiae (WBS2A, MG101828), and their antioxidant and antidiabetic effectiveness were studied. To optimize the growth conditions, the level of proteolysis was evaluated by exploring various inoculation levels (1.5, 2.0 and 2.5%) as well as incubation durations (0, 12, 24, 36 and 48 h). Peptides were extracted and purified through 2D gel electrophoresis as well as SDS–PAGE. Water-soluble extracts (WSEs) of ultrafiltered (UF) peptide fractions were evaluated via reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) to identify the peptide segments. By applying the Peakview tool, peptide sequences obtained from liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC/MS) were reviewed by comparison with those in the BIOPEP database. Furthermore, the elevated levels of TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β and nitric oxide (NO) in RAW 267.4 cells treated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) are considerably lower than those in cultured CM and GCM. Protein macromolecules in CMs and GCMs have been captured via confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy both before and after fermentation. Full article

This study exploited the skin temperature signal derived from a wrist-worn wearable device to define potential digital biomarkers for glycemia levels. Characterization of the skin temperature signal measured through the Empatica E4 device was obtained in 16 subjects (data taken from a dataset freely available on PhysioNet) by deriving standard metrics and a set of novel metrics describing both the current and the retrospective behavior of the signal. For each subject and for each metric, values that correspond to when glycemia was inside the tight range (70–140 mg/dL) were compared through the Wilcoxon rank-sum test against those above or below the range. For hypoglycemia characterization (below range), retrospective behavior of skin temperature described by the metric CV_{T SD} (standard deviation of the series of coefficient of variation) proved to be the most effective both in daytime and nighttime (100% and 50% of the analyzed subjects, respectively). On the other side, for hyperglycemia characterization (above range), differences were observed between daytime and nighttime, with current behavior of skin temperature, described by M2_T (deviation from the reference value of 32 °C), being the most informative during daytime, whereas retrospective behavior, described by SD_{T hhmm} (standard deviation of the series of means), showed the highest effectiveness during nighttime. Proposed variability features outperformed standard metrics, and in future studies, their integration with other digital biomarkers of glycemia could improve the performance of applications devoted to non-invasive detection of glycemic events. Full article

This study was carried out at 10 randomly selected fringe villages of Buxa Tiger Reserve (BTR) in the Terai region of West Bengal, India through personal interviews with 100 randomly selected respondents. The study documented 102 non-timber forest products (NTFPs) that were utilized throughout the year. In the local weekly market, 28 NTFPs were found to be traded by the collectors. The study shows that without proper price mechanisms and marketing channels; the residents cannot obtain fair prices for their products. The study found only nine NTFPs that were prominently traded with the involvement of middlemen and traders along with the royalty imposed by the State Forest Department. The MSPs computed for these nine NTFPs were 25–200% higher than the prices the collectors were selling to the traders. The nationalization of NTFPs through MSPs will help their effective marketing, ensuring an adequate income for the collectors, which will lead to their sustainable harvest and conservation through participatory forest management. Introducing MSPs for NTFPs with an efficient procurement network can advance the economic status of the inhabitants. We recommend increasing the inhabitants’ capacity to collect, store, process, and market NTFPs with active policy, institutional, and infrastructural support. Full article

Using a multi-analytical approach, this investigation characterized Parmigiano Reggiano PDO cheese produced with milk from dairy cows fed different diets. Ten samples of Parmigiano Reggiano PDO cheese, aged for 24 months, were produced with milk from dairy cows fed only dry hay (P-DH; N = 6) or a diet with part of the dry hay replaced with fresh herbage (P-FF; N = 4). Instrumental (Flash GC-FID) analysis of the volatile fraction, image analyses, and sensory quantitative descriptive analysis (QDA^®) were carried out. The Parmigiano Reggiano cheese belonging to the P-FF group showed a higher intensity of yellow than P-DH for both sensory and image analyses. Regarding the volatile profiles, no differences were observed related to the two experimental groups, while sensory analyses allowed for some discrimination, in particular color and aroma attributes. Instrumental and sensory characterization can be used to obtain a unique analytical profile for Parmigiano Reggiano PDO cheeses produced with milk from dairy cows fed different forage sources and help to define the quality and authenticity of this typical high-value food product. Full article

Rapid urbanization in the Global South poses challenges to ecological integrity, cultural heritage, and equitable access to green infrastructure. This study evaluates the effectiveness of recent green infrastructure projects in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, including flagship parks and upgraded road corridors, through the lens of the Urban Nature Futures Framework (UNFF). To operationalize the UNFF’s three perspectives—Nature for Nature (NN), Nature for Society (NS), and Nature as Culture (NC)—a context-specific set of indicators was developed through the existing literature, global assessment frameworks, and stakeholder consultations. A mixed-methods approach, combining structured surveys with both qualitative and quantitative thematic analysis, was applied across four stakeholder groups: residents, park visitors, corridor users, and experts. The results indicate that while social benefits (NS) are widely recognized, ecological (NN) and cultural (NC) dimensions receive comparatively less emphasis. Regression analysis shows that education, employment, and green space use frequency significantly shape perceptions of NS and NC, while NN are more consistently shared across groups. This study demonstrates the practical value of the UNFF as an assessment tool and offers a replicable methodology for evaluating multifunctional green infrastructure. The findings underscore the need for more inclusive, biodiversity-positive, and culturally grounded urban renewal strategies. These insights are relevant for planners and policymakers aiming to foster equitable and resilient urban environments in rapidly growing cities. Full article

Artemisia alba Turra is a plant used in folk medicine. Due to its significant polymorphism, there are different chemotypes. This study aimed to characterize the specific chemotypes and evaluate the anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antiproliferative potential of an ethanol extract of A. alba Turra aerial parts prepared from plants harvested from the “Alexandru Borza” Botanical Garden, Cluj-Napoca, Romania. The extract phytochemical analysis performed by measuring total polyphenol content (3.4 ± 0.21 mgGAE/g d.w.), total polyphenolic flavonoids (147.12 ± 10.09 mg QE/100 g d.w.), and HPLC-ESI MS polyphenol profiles indicated that in the A. alba Tura extract from the hydroxycinnamic acids chlorogenic acid, caffeoyl tartaric acid, 3,4-dicaffeoylquinic acid, 3,5-dicaffeoylquinic acid, and 4,5-dicaffeoylquinic acid had and from the flavonols, isorhamnetin-rutinoside and rutin had the highest concentration. The extract exhibited good in vitro and in vivo antioxidant activity by reducing oxidants without significant effects on antioxidants. The anti-inflammatory effect tested on rat turpentine oil-induced inflammation was indicated by the reduction in NLRP3 inflammasome markers, NfkB-p65, IL-1β, IL-18, caspase-1, and gasdermin D. The extract had in vitro antiproliferative activity against ovarian tumor cell lines at concentrations from 12.5 to 50 μg/mL, and this mechanism was linked to MDR and NF-κB modulation. A. alba Turra had no liver toxicity and reduced kidney injury associated with inflammation. These findings indicated that this specific Romanian chemotype of A. alba Turra has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiproliferative properties with potential applications as tumor microenvironment-targeted therapy. Full article

The eastern parts of Ethiopia, including Dire Dawa City, have experienced annual dengue fever (DF) outbreaks since 2013, leading to significant healthcare and economic impacts. However, comprehensive evidence on the specific dengue virus (DENV) serotypes and genotypes involved remains limited. During the 2023 DF outbreak, the National Arbovirus Laboratory received seventy serum samples from suspected DF patients. Positive samples underwent sequencing of the CprM region of the DENV genome, and the obtained sequences were analyzed phylogenetically. Among the patients, 32 (45.7%) displayed early warning signs of severe dengue, and 13 were hospitalized, most showing symptoms indicative of severe dengue. Out of 67 adequate samples, 44 (65.6%) tested positive for DENV RNA by RT-PCR, and 17 successfully underwent CprM sequencing. All sequenced samples were identified as DENV-3, genotype III, major lineage B (DENV-3III_B), with two distinct minor lineages (DENV-3III_B.2 and DENV-3III_B.3). Phylogenetic analysis showed that these lineages were closely related to sequences from the Afar region, suggesting interconnected outbreaks with multiple co-circulating lineages. This study identifies DENV-3III_B as the cause of the 2023 DF outbreak in Dire Dawa City and highlights the need for enhanced viral genomic surveillance in Africa. Full article

Consumers are increasingly attracted to innovative, gourmand, and sustainable food products. This has led to a growing interest in flavored olive oils through co-milling processing. This study explores the production and characterization of flavored olive oils obtained by co-milling olives with orange pomace, black pepper, and hemp seeds, aiming to enhance their sensory and compositional properties while promoting sustainability through the valorization of agri-food by-products. The flavored olive oils and their control samples were analyzed for free acidity, tocopherols, phenolic compounds, volatiles, and sensory profiles. The flavored oils exhibited an acceptable hydrolytic state and peculiar sensory notes, depending on the ingredients used, as well as enhanced compositional qualities. This research highlights the potential of using oranges and hemp by-products in flavored oil production, offering an innovative approach to reducing food waste, with the possibility of future industrial applications. Full article

Background/ Objectives: Long COVID or post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC) are symptoms that manifest despite passing the acute infection phase. These manifestations encompass a wide range of symptoms, the most common being fatigue, shortness of breath, and cognitive dysfunction. Genetic predisposition is clearly involved in the susceptibility of individuals to developing these persistent symptoms and the variation in the severity and forms. This review summarizes the role of genetic factors and gene polymorphisms in the development of major pulmonary vascular disorders associated with long COVID. Methods: A comprehensive review of current literature was conducted to examine the genetic contributions to pulmonary complications following SARS-CoV-2 infection. Studies investigating genetic polymorphisms linked to pulmonary hypertension, pulmonary thromboembolism, and pulmonary vascular endothelialitis were reviewed and summarized. Results: Findings show that specific genetic variants contribute to increased susceptibility to pulmonary vascular complications in long COVID patients. Variants associated with endothelial dysfunction, coagulation pathways, and inflammatory responses have been implicated in the development of pulmonary hypertension and thromboembolic events. Genetic predispositions influencing vascular integrity and immune responses appear to influence disease severity and progression. Conclusions: Understanding these mechanisms and genetic predispositions could pave the way for targeted therapeutic interventions to alleviate the burden on patients experiencing long COVID. Full article

Background: Drug-induced gingival enlargement is a commonly documented adverse effect in patients administered with calcium antagonist medications. Nifedipine is the medicine most frequently linked to instances of gingival enlargement; nevertheless, amlodipine, likewise a calcium antagonist, can elicit this adverse effect. This case report aims to detail a case of amlodipine-induced gingival hyperplasia, emphasizing the significance of a multidisciplinary approach and outlining its therapy across various surgical phases. Methods: A 48-year-old hypertensive patient using amlodipine therapy presents with aberrant gingival tissue growth in the upper arch. Intraoral examination reveals localized inflammation and tissue enlargement in the papillae areas of the upper arch gingiva, leading to partial covering of the dental crowns. The patient experienced painful sensations and episodes of spontaneous bleeding in the enlarged gingival tissue. Following an initial professional dental hygiene treatment, which included root planning in the upper quadrants, and in consultation with the referring cardiologist, it was determined to discontinue amlodipine and initiate a replacement therapy with olmesartan medoxomil. Fifteen days following the cessation of amlodipine, surgical excision of the thickened interdental gingival tissues in the anterior region was conducted to obtain biopsies for histological confirmation of the observed pathological condition. Results: Histopathological examination validated the diagnosis of drug-induced gingival enlargement, characterized by chorion fibrosis and significant lymphoplasmacytic infiltration. Specifically, parakeratotic and acanthotic characteristics were seen in the gingival epithelium. Adjacent to the inflammatory regions, fibrosis was noted, along with the presence of cytoid bodies, which are typically linked to pathological diseases driven by inflammatory processes. These histological characteristics were consistent with the diagnosis of drug-induced gingival enlargement. Conclusions: A multidisciplinary approach involving the treating physician, dentist, and hygienist, incorporating drug replacement and targeted oral hygiene sessions, is crucial for the management and resolution of calcium channel blocker-induced gingival enlargement. Full article

Diabetic foot syndrome is a multifactorial disease involving different etiological factors. This syndrome is also insidious, due to frequent lack of early symptoms, and its prevalence has increased in recent years. This justifies the remarkable attention being paid to the syndrome, although the problem of effective early screening for this syndrome, possibly at a patient’s home, is still unsolved. However, some options appear available in this context. First, it was demonstrated that the temperature measurement of the foot skin is an interesting approach, but it also has some limitations, and hence a more effective approach should combine data from temperature and from other sensors. For this purpose, foot skin conductance or bioimpedance measurement may be a good option. Therefore, the aim of this study was to review those studies where skin conductance/bioimpedance measurement was used for the detection of diabetic foot syndrome. In addition, we performed a meta-analysis of some of those studies, where a widely used device was exploited (SUDOSCAN^®) for foot skin conductance measurement, and we found that skin conductance levels can clearly distinguish between groups of patients with and without diabetic neuropathy, the latter being one of the most relevant factors in diabetic foot syndrome. Full article

Objectives: To evaluate the clinical performance of BioHPP^® (Biocompatible High-Performance Polymer) superstructures in full-arch implant-prosthetic rehabilitations following the Toronto-Branemark protocol, focusing on biomechanical and biological outcomes. Methods: A 70-year-old edentulous male patient underwent full-arch implant-prosthetic rehabilitation using BioHPP^® superstructures fabricated through a CAD-CAM workflow. Radiological and clinical evaluations were conducted to plan implant placement and assess outcomes after one-year of follow-up. The primary endpoints included prosthetic stability, peri-implant bone resorption, and patient-reported satisfaction. Results: The BioHPP^® superstructure demonstrated effective stress distribution, leading to minimal peri-implant bone resorption and improved implant stability. Clinical evaluations showed excellent prosthetic fit and functionality, with no complications during the observation period. Radiological analyses confirmed the absence of prosthetic misfits, while patient-reported outcomes indicated high levels of comfort and aesthetic satisfaction. Conclusions: BioHPP^® superstructures offer a promising alternative to traditional materials for full-arch implant-prosthetic rehabilitations, providing significant biomechanical and aesthetic advantages. These findings suggest that BioHPP^® may enhance clinical outcomes, though further research with larger cohorts and longer follow-up periods is required to validate its long-term reliability. Full article

There is an increasing global acknowledgment of the critical role that men have as key partners in maternal, newborn, and child health (MNCH). Most male-engagement initiatives do not address the perceived benefits and risks that women may experience because of increased male participation in MNCH, especially in Kenya. The aim of this study, therefore, is to qualitatively assess how women perceive and experience increased male engagement in MNCH in western Kenya. Using a phenomenological approach, 53 women (35 mothers and 18 mothers-in-law) were purposively selected from seven communities in Kakamega County and participated in seven focus group discussions (FGD) in November and December 2020. Our findings suggest that the level of support for increased male involvement in MNCH varies depending on the type of participant. While mothers-in-law were less supportive of increased male involvement, mothers were more supportive of male involvement that fosters gender equity, such as joint decision making. Most mothers-in-law argued that women are ‘naturally’ closer to children, that men cannot care for children and their involvement may harm children, and men’s involvement may give men more control over women’s spaces. These findings show that programmatic initiatives to enhance male engagement in MNCH must consider mothers-in-law’s concerns and leverage mothers’ desire to engage men in a gender-equitable way. Full article

Objectives: Accurate target definition, treatment planning and delivery increases local tumor control for radiotherapy by minimizing collateral damage. To achieve this goal for uveal melanoma (UM), tantalum fiducial markers (TFMs) were previously introduced in proton and photon beam radiotherapy. However, TFMs cause pronounced scattering effects in imaging that make the delineation of small tumors difficult. The aim of this study was to evaluate silicone fiducial markers (SFMs) for the guiding of stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) for UM. Methods: In this retrospective interventional pilot case series, three patients with small UMs 3 mm or less in tumor thickness and ≤10 mm in largest basal diameter received silicone fiducial markers. The fiducial markers were punched out (3 mm) from conventional silicone encircling bands for buckle surgery. The markers were sutured onto the sclera at the tumor margins according to the use of TFMs. MRI and CT images were used for the localization of the tumor and the markers before robotic-guided SRS. Results: The silicone fiducial markers were punched out easily from the original band, better to handle than TFMs and easy to suture onto the sclera. They could be visualized in both MRI and CT, but were more visible in CT. In the absence of scattering effects, both the markers and thus the tumor boundaries could be clearly delineated. Conclusions: This is the first report that introduces fiducial markers intraoperatively shaped from conventional silicone encircling bands usually used for retinal detachment surgery. The SFMs allow more accurate tumor delineation, resulting in the more precise planning and administration of SRS when compared to TFMs. This simple modification has a major impact on a well-known treatment approach. Full article