Search Results (428)

The uptake of the COVID-19 and seasonal influenza (SI) vaccines have decreased in Europe and especially in Malta. The present study aimed to investigate the attitudes toward COVID-19 and SI vaccines and determine if individuals perceive that these vaccines are relevant to protect their health and identify reasons for their responses. A cross-sectional study using an anonymous questionnaire, informed by the Theory of Planned Behavior, addressing behavior beliefs and attitudes, and targeted at adult residents in Malta, was designed on Google Forms and disseminated using social media between January and March 2024. A total of 555 responses were received. The majority of respondents did not take/intend to take the COVID-19 (75%, n = 417) or SI (64.3%, n = 362) vaccines, with females being less likely to do so (p = 0.033). Perceived lack of safety (31.3%, n = 174) was the primary reason for rejecting the COVID-19 vaccine, and perceived lack of a threat from SI (26%, n = 144) was the reason for rejecting the SI vaccine. Those having chronic conditions were positively associated with uptake of both vaccines. In the post-pandemic era, these vaccines are not envisaged as having a major role in protecting one’s health. A high degree of skepticism especially toward the combined COVID-19 and SI vaccine in terms of safety, mostly in women, is still present. Full article

Maize (Zea may L.) is one of the most important crops worldwide, but ear rot poses a significant threat to its production. Diverse pathogens cause ear rot in China, with Fusarium spp. being predominant, especially Fusarium graminearum and Fusarium verticillioides. Current methods for the control of ear rot are limited, making the use of resistant germplasm resources an effective and economical management strategy. Earlier research focused on resistance to Fusarium ear rot (FER; caused by F. verticillioides) and Gibberella ear rot (GER; caused by F. graminearum), but assessing maize resistance to multiple major Fusarium spp. is critical in ensuring maize production. Thus, the resistance of 343 maize germplasm resources to ear rot caused by six Fusarium spp. (F. verticillioides, F. graminearum, F. proliferatum, F. meridionale, F. subglutinans, and F. temperatum) was evaluated in this study. Over three years, 69 and 77 lines resistant to six and five ear rot diseases, respectively, and 139 lines resistant to both FER and GER were identified. Moreover, the 343 germplasm resources were divided into eight heterotic groups, of which PH4CV was the most resistant one, whereas NSS and Pioneer Female were the least resistant ones. These findings provide a basis for the development of maize cultivars with broad-spectrum ear rot resistance. Full article

This study investigated individuals’ emotional responses to bed bugs and how these were influenced by sex, proximity, and educational intervention. Using a pre-post experimental design, participants (n = 157) completed emotional assessments before and after viewing an educational video about bed bugs. Contrary to our initial hypothesis that only fear and disgust would be observed, participants also exhibited high levels of anxiety and anger. Following the educational intervention, disgust, fear, and anger toward bed bugs increased significantly. Participants experienced greater disgust and fear when imagining encounters with bed bugs in closer proximity, with home infestations giving stronger responses than workplace scenarios. The educational video reduced disgust toward bed bugs in the home but increased fear of them in public spaces, potentially promoting vigilance that could limit bed bug spread. Females reported higher levels of disgust and fear than males across all proximity conditions, supporting evolutionary theories regarding sex-specific disgust sensitivity. The educational video successfully increased participants’ knowledge about bed bugs while simultaneously shifting emotional responses from contamination-based disgust to threat-specific fear. These findings suggest that educational interventions can effectively modify emotional responses to bed bugs, potentially leading to more rational management behaviors by transforming vague anxiety into actionable awareness of specific threats. Full article

Background: The migration of healthcare professionals poses a serious threat to health systems worldwide. This study examines attitudes toward brain drain and the factors influencing migration tendencies among medical and nursing students in Albania, with particular attention to nursing workforce implications. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 610 students in the 2024–2025 academic year using the 16-item Brain Drain Attitude Scale (BDAS). Socio-demographic and academic data were also collected. Results: The mean BDAS score was 53.43 ± 16.88. Pull factors (mean: 40.25 ± 12.76) were stronger motivators than push factors (mean: 13.19 ± 4.13). A total of 487 nursing, 73 midwifery-nursing, and 50 medical students participated (95% response rate). Nearly 40% expressed a desire to work abroad, citing financial prospects (48.2%), better living standards (46%), and personal freedom (42.1%) as reasons. Higher migration tendencies were seen in females (β = 0.50, p = 0.049), medical students (β = 1.01, p = 0.001), and third-year students (β = 0.46, p = 0.011). Conclusions: Migration tendencies are high among future Albanian healthcare professionals, with significant implications for the nursing workforce. Targeted policies are urgently needed to address brain drain through workforce investment and retention strategies. Full article

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) represents a critical global health threat, with inappropriate antibiotic self-medication (ASM) being a key contributor. China—as the world’s largest antibiotic consumer—faces significant challenges despite regulatory efforts, compounded by limited contemporary data during the COVID-19 pandemic. A nationwide cross-sectional study was conducted using the 2021 China Family Health Index Survey (n = 11,031 participants across 120 cities). Trained investigators administered face-to-face questionnaires assessing ASM practices, decision-making factors, and sociodemographic characteristics. Multivariate logistic regression identified determinants of ASM. Overall, ASM prevalence was 33.7% (n = 3717), with no urban-rural difference (p > 0.05). Physician advice (78.2%), drug safety (67.1%), and efficacy (64.2%) were primary selection criteria; rural residents prioritized drug price and salesperson recommendations more than their urban counterparts (p < 0.01). Key predictors included higher ASM odds among females (OR = 1.30, 95%CI:1.18–1.43), middle-aged adults (46–59 years; OR = 1.20, 95%CI:1.02–1.42), those with health insurance (resident: OR = 1.33; commercial: OR = 1.62), and individuals with drinking histories (OR = 1.20, 95%CI:1.10–1.31). Lower odds were associated with primary education (OR = 0.69, 95%CI:0.58–0.81), unemployment (OR = 0.88, 95%CI:0.79–0.98), and absence of chronic diseases (OR = 0.56, 95%CI:0.47–0.67). One-third of Chinese residents engaged in ASM during the pandemic, driven by intersecting demographic and behavioral factors. Despite converging urban-rural prevalence rates, distinct decision-making drivers necessitate context-specific interventions, including strengthened pharmacy regulation in rural areas, tailored education programs for high-risk groups, and insurance system reforms to disincentivize self-medication. Full article

Overexploitation is the main anthropogenic threat to groupers (Epinephelidae) that aggregate to spawn. Fishing negatively affects their reproductive success and indirectly harms fishery economic yield. In the southern Gulf of Mexico, grouper catches, which include thirteen species, are in decline. A lack of biological information on each exploited species prevents optimising fishery management. Using histological examination of the gonads, the reproductive traits of red hind Epinephelus guttatus and yellowfin grouper Mycteroperca venenosa were studied from January 2008 to October 2009. Collections were made at two reef systems (Alacranes Reef and Bajos del Norte) on the continental shelf of the Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico, where these species form transient spawning aggregations. The results confirmed that previously identified spawning aggregation sites at both reefs constitute productive seasonal and perennial “hotspots” for both groupers; they spawn annually between January and April. Females of these protogynous hermaphroditic species exhibit a reproductive strategy characterised by asynchronous ovarian development organisation and ovulation. Sex ratios and maximum sizes at each reef suggest that populations of both groupers had a good conservation status as of the late 2000s. Both reefs are now marine protected areas, and a discussion is made of the consequent possible benefits to grouper population conservation and sustainability in the southern Gulf of Mexico. Full article

The COVID-19 pandemic is considered a potentially traumatic event, as it introduced new challenges and threats to people around the world, disrupting daily life due to the restrictions imposed. The psychological defenses of individuals mobilized to deal with stress reactions are influenced by a set of factors, including previous traumatic experiences, which can amplify the current trauma. Recognizing that people exposed to adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) have increased risks of an array of adverse mental and physical health outcomes throughout life, the present study aimed to investigate the relationship between ACEs—more specifically, child abuse and child neglect—and PTSD symptoms in a sample of European adults during the pandemic. A sample of 8459 participants (67.1% female and 32.9% male, with a mean of 43.95 years old) was evaluated. The survey questionnaire included questions on sociodemographic and clinical characteristics, the Primary Care PTSD Screen for DSM-5 (PC-PTSD-5), and the Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) questionnaire. According to our findings, younger women who have suffered from child abuse or child neglect are more likely to develop PTSD symptoms. The most significant factor influencing the PTSD risk was child neglect, contrary to many studies that indicate that child abuse is the most impactful adverse childhood experience. Full article

The female reproductive tract (FRT) serves as the core of human reproduction, and its health is directly related to population quantity and family happiness. The high incidence rate of female reproductive tract diseases globally poses a severe threat to women’s health. Nevertheless, the exploration of its physiological functions and pathological mechanisms still lacks satisfactory research models. Organoids, as an emerging technology, not only circumvent numerous ethical issues existing in in vivo experiments but also precisely replicate the morphological structure and characteristics of the simulated tissues. The purpose of this article is to summarize the basic paradigms of organoid establishment and their applications in female reproductive research. Specifically, this article summarizes the cell sources, extracellular scaffolds, and culture media used in the establishment of organoids. It also describes the applications and future development prospects of female reproductive tract organoids established in current research in physiological and pathological studies. The importance of organoid technology in the female reproductive tract research cannot be ignored. It has opened up new avenues for research in this field and greatly promoted the exploration of female reproductive health and disease mechanisms. Full article

Potato common scab is one of the major diseases posing a threat to potato production on a global scale. No chemical agents have been found to effectively control the occurrence of this disease, and research on the identification of resistance genes and the development of molecular markers remains relatively limited. In this study, a diploid potato variety H535, which exhibits resistance to the predominant pathogen Streptomyces scabies, was utilized as the male parent, whereas the susceptible diploid potato variety H012 served as the female parent. Building upon the resistance QTL intervals pinpointed through a genome-wide association study, two potential resistance loci were localized on chromosome 2 of the potato genome, spanning the regions between 38–38.6 Mb and 41.3–42.7 Mb. These intervals accounted for 18.03% of the total phenotypic variance and are presumed to be the primary QTLs underlying scab resistance. Building upon this foundation, we expanded the hybrid progeny population, conducted resistance assessments, selected individuals with extreme phenotypes, developed molecular markers, and conducted fine mapping of the resistance gene. A phenotypic evaluation of scab resistance was carried out using a pot-based inoculation test on 175 potato hybrid progenies to characterize the F1 generation population. Twenty lines exhibiting high resistance and thirty lines displaying high susceptibility were selected for investigations. Within the preliminary mapping interval on potato chromosome 2 (spanning 38–43 Mb), a total of 214 SSR (Simple Sequence Repeat) and 133 InDel (Insertion/Deletion) primer pairs were designed. Initial screening with parental lines identified 18 polymorphic markers (8 SSR and 10 InDel) that demonstrated stable segregation patterns. Validation using bulked segregant analysis revealed that 3 SSR markers (with 70–90% linkage) and 6 InDel markers (with 70–90% linkage) exhibited significant co-segregation with the resistance trait. A high-density genetic linkage map spanning 104.59 cm was constructed using 18 polymorphic markers, with an average marker spacing of 5.81 cm. Through linkage analysis, the resistance locus was precisely mapped to a 767 kb interval (41.33–42.09 Mb) on potato chromosome 2, flanked by SSR-2-9 and InDel-3-9. Within this refined interval, four candidate disease resistance genes were identified: RHC02H2G2507, RHC02H2G2515, PGSC0003DMG400030643, and PGSC0003DMG400030661. This study offers novel insights into the genetic architecture underlying scab resistance in potato. The high-resolution mapping results and characterized markers will facilitate marker-assisted selection (MAS) in disease resistance breeding programs, providing an efficient strategy for developing cultivars with enhanced resistance to Streptomyces scabies. Full article

Background/Objectives: High-energy trauma to the lower limb often results in extensive soft tissue loss with exposure of critical structures, posing a serious threat to limb viability. Early and effective coverage is crucial to prevent infection, promote bone healing, and preserve function. This report presents the use of a latissimus dorsi free flap for circumferential soft tissue reconstruction following a severe crush injury. Methods: We describe the case of a young female patient who sustained a high-energy crush trauma with a comminuted, displaced fracture of the middle and distal third of the tibia and complete circumferential soft tissue loss. Due to the extent and location of the defect, a latissimus dorsi free flap was selected for reconstruction. The surgical technique, microsurgical anastomosis, postoperative care, and rehabilitation protocol are detailed. Results: The latissimus dorsi flap provided reliable coverage of the entire defect, protected the underlying bone and hardware, and promoted wound healing. No major complications were observed. Functional recovery was satisfactory, with progressive weight-bearing and joint mobility achieved during follow-up. Conclusions: In complex lower limb injuries with extensive soft tissue damage, free flap transfer remains a key strategy for limb salvage. The latissimus dorsi flap, due to its size, reliability, and versatility, represents a valuable option for circumferential coverage and restoration of limb function following high-energy trauma. Full article

Ehrlichia canis is a tick-transmitted zoonotic pathogen in dogs. We conducted a molecular survey for screening of E. canis infection in Rhipicephalus sanguineus ticks infesting dogs and identified its genetic identity in Taiwan. A total of 1195 R. sanguineus ticks were collected and examined for Ehrlichia infection by nested-PCR assay targeting the 16S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) gene. In general, Ehrlichia infection was detected in 1.5% of examined ticks, and was detected in nymph, male and female stages with infection rates of 0.6%, 1.31% and 2.76%, respectively. The highest monthly prevalence was observed in August with an infection rate of 5.91%. Genetic identity was analyzed by comparing the 16S rRNA gene sequences obtained from 11 Taiwan strains and 15 other strains representing five genospecies of Ehrlichia spp., including two outgroups (Anaplasma phagocytophilum and Rickettsia rickettsii). Results revealed that all Taiwan strains were genetically affiliated to the same clade within various E. canis strains documented in GenBank with a high sequence similarity (99.7–100%) and that they can be clearly distinguished from other genospecies of Ehrlichia. This study provides the first evidence of E. canis identified in R. sanguineus ticks and highlights the potential threat for human infections in Taiwan. Full article

Climate change poses a significant threat to mental health, including the emergence of climate change anxiety (CCA). In this study, we examined whether exposure to climate-related events was associated with higher CCA through the mediating roles of climate change awareness and ecological coping strategies and whether these pathways differed by chronic illness status. In February 2025, 600 Israeli adults (50% female; mean age ≈ 50) completed an online self-report questionnaire assessing climate change exposure, awareness, coping, and anxiety. Data were analyzed using moderated mediation models, controlling for gender, age, and education. Greater climate change exposure was associated with an increased awareness and higher use of problem-focused coping, which, in turn, predicted elevated CCA. Meaning-focused coping was not associated with anxiety overall; however, among the participants without a chronic illness, it was linked to higher CCA. Climate change awareness alone was not associated with anxiety. A significant serial mediation was found via awareness and problem-focused coping, and a moderated mediation was found via meaning-focused coping among those without a chronic illness. Coping strategies play a key role in climate change anxiety. Although health status may influence this process, tailored interventions should prioritize coping styles in climate adaptation efforts. Full article

Chemosensory systems play a pivotal role in insect survival and reproduction by mediating the detection of volatile organic compounds in the environment. Protaetia brevitarsis (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae), a phytophagous pest widely distributed across East Asia, poses a significant threat to agro-horticultural systems through crop damage. We conducted antennal transcriptome sequencing of adult beetles and identified 117 chemosensory-related genes, including 66 odorant receptors (ORs), 20 ionotropic receptors, 10 gustatory receptors, 13 odorant-binding proteins (OBPs), four chemosensory proteins, and four sensory neuron membrane proteins. Tissue-specific expression profiling revealed the antennal enrichment of five PbreOBP genes and twenty-three ORs. Notably, sexual dimorphism was observed in OR expression patterns. PbreOR1/6/17/18/21/22/30/32 exhibited male-biased antennal expression, whereas PbreOR25/26/29/38/41/44/61 demonstrated female-biased antennal expression, indicating their potential involvement in sex-specific behaviors, such as pheromone detection and oviposition site selection. A comprehensive description of the antenna chemosensory-related genes of P. brevitarsis has deepened our understanding of the olfactory mechanisms in coleopteran insects. This study also provides a basis for understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying olfaction in P. brevitarsis. Full article

Background: Antibiotic resistance (AR) is a global public health crisis, largely driven by the misuse and overuse of antibiotics. This study aimed to assess the level of knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) toward AR among non-medical university students in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia and identify factors that influence antibiotic use. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 672 students from both public and private universities in Riyadh. Data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire covering sociodemographic characteristics and KAP regarding antibiotics. Results: The findings indicated that 59.1% of students had sufficient knowledge of antibiotics, while 60% had positive attitudes, and 60.6% exhibited responsible practices. However, 40.9% of students demonstrated insufficient knowledge, and factors such as age, gender, and field of study significantly impacted KAP outcomes. Females had 65.8% higher odds of demonstrating a positive attitude toward AR prevention, compared to males, and 52% higher odds of adopting appropriate practices than males. The primary source of information on antibiotics was healthcare professionals, particularly doctors. Conclusions: These findings underscore the need for targeted educational interventions to enhance awareness and promote the responsible use of antibiotics among university students, helping to mitigate the threat of antibiotic resistance. Full article

Background: Little is known about the perspectives of elite female rugby union players and practitioners towards rehabilitation and return to play (RTP) following shoulder injuries and how to manage these complex injuries. Methods: An interpretive hermeneutic phenomenology study was undertaken within a subtle realist paradigmatic view. Twenty semi-structured interviews were conducted with elite female rugby union players and practitioners working in elite female rugby union. Data were analysed using reflective thematic analysis. Results: Four themes emerged from the data: (1) growth of the women’s game, which involved several influences on the support and resources players received; (2) different viewpoints between players and practitioners concerning injury reporting and objective testing; (3) threats to identity, a player-only generated theme centred around the risk to their career following a significant injury and the isolation they faced; and (4) RTP, exploring strategies and influences to players’ and practitioners’ confidence in the RTP process following a shoulder injury. Conclusions: Practitioners should consider the non-physical factors during the rehabilitation process and the theory of care concept in supporting and collaborating with female rugby union players following a shoulder injury. Full article