The procedures used for the neuropsychological assessment of patients with dementia have been undergoing significant transformations relating to technological developments and the diffusion of artificial intelligence tools. The integration of a theoretical position and a practical approach is needed in clinical contexts so that newly available tools can enhance the fundamental principles underlying neuropsychological assessment. Following a historical review of the various approaches to neuropsychological assessment, an analysis of the risks associated with the introduction of digital techniques, when not supervised by expert clinicians, is presented. The need to integrate new technologies in a comprehensive assessment involving clinical observation, ad-hoc tests, and other sources of information such as neuroimaging and neurophysiological data is discussed. The integration of new technologies with a clinical, personalised approach to the patient represents a challenge for neuropsychology that deserves ad-hoc research and discussion.
Melatonin has been extensively studied for its antioxidant activity, yet its safety profile and concentration-dependent effects remain only partially understood, particularly in aquatic experimental systems. Here, we investigated the effects of melatonin on behavioral and physiological responses in a pilocarpine (PILO)-induced seizure-like model using zebrafish (Danio rerio) larvae. A multibiomarker framework was employed, combining embryo-larval toxicity assessments up to 144 h post-fertilization with behavioral and biochemical endpoints related to seizure-like activity. Across the tested concentration range (0.14-18 µg/mL), melatonin did not affect mortality or hatching rates. However, exposure to higher concentrations (9.0 and 18 µg/mL) resulted in altered spontaneous contractions and increased embryonic heart rate, indicating measurable physiological changes during early development. At lower concentrations (2.25 and 4.50 µg/mL), melatonin was associated with reduced PILO-induced hyperlocomotion, increased latency to seizure-like onset, and reduced progression to more severe behavioral stages. These responses were accompanied by a reduction in reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels at both 72 and 144 hpf. Collectively, the data reveal a concentration-dependent response profile, with distinct behavioral and physiological outcomes emerging across exposure levels. This study contributes to the characterization of melatonin effects in zebrafish larvae and underscores the importance of dose selection in experimental seizure models.
Sex differences in Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) exposure likely contribute to sex differences in tuberculosis (TB) burden. However, population-level age- and sex-specific patterns of Mtb exposure among adolescents and adults have not been recently characterised in Malawi. We therefore conducted a cross-sectional survey to estimate age- and sex-specific Mtb immunoreactivity prevalence in Blantyre City, Malawi, and to assess whether prevalence diverges by sex with increasing age. We used an open-access dataset of building footprints, known as Open Buildings, to obtain a random sample of households from 33 peri-urban neighbourhoods in Blantyre City. Adolescents and adults aged 10-40 years were recruited, participant characteristics recorded, and venous blood samples collected to determine Mtb immunoreactivity using the QuantiFERON-TB Gold Plus (QFT-Plus) assay. We fitted Bayesian multilevel logistic regression models to estimate the association between age, sex, and other risk factors with Mtb immunoreactivity, and compared predicted immunoreactivity prevalence across age-sex strata. Of 2833 participants, 40.0% (1133/2833) were male, the median age was 21 years (interquartile range: 16-28 years), and 8.7% (179/2047) self-reported living with HIV. Overall, 17.8% (503/2833) of participants were Mtb positive, Mtb immunoreactivity prevalence was 17.8% (95% credible interval [CrI]: 16.4-19.2%), corresponding to an annual risk of TB infection of 0.88% (95% CrI: 0.80%-0.95%). Prevalence was similar by sex among 10-19- and 30-40-year-olds. However, among 20-29-year-olds, prevalence was higher among males compared to females: 26.3% (95% CrI: 22.0%-30.8%) and 17.7% (95% CrI: 14.8%-20.8%), respectively. The annual risk of Mtb immunoreactivity conversion increased, on average, at a faster rate among males compared to females from age 10 years, peaking at 21 years, where it was 1.58 (95% CrI: 0.82-2.80) times higher among males compared to females. Tobacco smoking and alcohol drinking, more prevalent among males compared to females, were associated with increased immunoreactivity probability. Adolescence appears to be a period of vulnerability for Mtb exposure, during which sex-specific vulnerabilities begin to emerge. Identifying the biological and social drivers of these vulnerabilities could inform targeted strategies to reduce sex disparities in TB.
Intrinsic capacity (IC) is the composite of an individual's physical and mental capacities which maintain functional ability. We aimed to develop and validate an IC scale that was ready for clinical use, and to explore the interaction between pain, IC, and functional outcomes. Confirmatory factor analysis was used to test the construct validity of the model drawing on items from the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing (ELSA). The final Derby Scale of Intrinsic Capacity (DSIC) included mobility (Short Physical Performance Battery), cognition (orientation and 10-word recall), vitality (body mass index), sensory (self-reported vision and hearing), and psychology (Satisfaction with Life). Logistic regression, repeated-measures ANOVA, and structural equation modeling were used to explore interactions between pain, IC, and outcomes. 2486 (wave 6) out of 4052 (wave 4) people aged ≥ 60 years had complete data for analysis. A higher (better) baseline DSIC was associated with decreased risk of basic and instrumental activities of daily living [OR 0.73, 95% CI 0.67-0.80], informal help [OR 0.69, 95% CI 0.62-0.78], formal help [OR 0.66, 95% CI 0.53-0.82], and falls [OR 0.90, 95% CI 0.83-0.97]. People with pain at baseline and follow-up had a lower (poorer) DSIC than those with no pain. The model we created accounted for 36% of variability of ADL difficulties. Pain reduced DSIC by 12% and in turn ADL difficulties by a further 12%. The DSIC is a validated, clinically user-ready tool for measuring IC in older people. Pain was associated with poorer IC and mediated the relationship between IC and ADL difficulties.
Obesity disproportionately affects Hispanic adults and children, especially Mexican Americans. Family-centered interventions (FCIs) for weight loss and obesity prevention tailored to these populations are lacking. Our study (ClinicalTrials.gov NCT07144800) aims to develop a multicomponent culturally tailored FCI for Hispanic American families. To inform intervention development, we conducted 6 Spanish language focus groups with 31 parents/caregivers with overweight or obesity who were recruited from a Hispanic community-serving health services program in New York City. Using rapid qualitative data analysis of focus group content, 4 themes emerged: (1) Navigating a mixture of cultures: children were more rapidly acculturating to U.S. norms, resulting in tensions over food choices; (2) Family functioning and parenting styles: parents saw themselves as leaders/role models, balancing guidance with flexibility around children's preferences; (3) Challenges to maintaining healthy habits: maintaining healthy diets and regular physical activity for the family was influenced by internal factors (limited motivation, low prioritization) and external pressures (work hours/time, limited financial resources); and (4) Building on an existing foundation of knowledge: participants had knowledge and awareness of the importance of a healthy lifestyle, which they were eager to build on with additional education and peer support. Intervention refinements should focus on leveraging authoritative parenting styles and helping families establish rules and routines around healthy habits, including nutritious and culturally familiar meal planning, and navigating the acculturation gap. Information and resources on low-cost food options and low/no-cost opportunities for physical activity should be provided.
Helicobacter pylori is considered as a high-priority pathogen by World Health Organization which causes chronic gastritis and peptic ulcer disease and gastric carcinoma. The organism uses several methods to establish its disease-causing ability through urease production CagA protein synthesis biofilm development and ongoing gastric tissue damage. The rising rates of antibiotic resistance have decreased the success rate of standard treatment methods that use proton pump inhibitors and other eradication protocols. The plant-based compounds provide immunomodulatory properties together with gastro-protective benefits which will help improve treatment results while reducing the risks that come with antibiotic resistance. Phytochemicals from medicinal plants have developed into effective natural treatments against H. pylori because they contain various mechanisms to combat the bacteria. To achieve a review study, academic databases such as PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Google Scholar were searched to cover all the available literature. The anti-H. pylori activity of compounds from Curcuma longa, Zingiber officinale, Allium sativum, and Camellia sinensis stems from their ability to block bacterial attachment while they impede biofilm development and decrease the production of pathogenic factors and their effects on host immune systems. The overview presents scientific evidence which shows that phytochemicals have therapeutic value because they serve as natural treatments that help fight antibiotic resistance while improving H. pylori treatment methods.
In resource-limited settings where liver transplantation is unavailable, pediatric acute liver failure (PALF) carries a markedly high mortality rate. In this context, extracorporeal liver support systems (ELSS), such as therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE), do not serve as a bridge to transplantation, but rather the sole critical bridge to spontaneous liver recovery. We conducted a prospective single-center study in a pediatric intensive care unit, including seven patients admitted with PALF who underwent TPE. Clinical data, biological markers (including transaminase, bilirubin, INR, and ammonia), and patient outcomes were analyzed to evaluate the biological efficacy of TPE and identify factors influencing survival. All seven patients presented with severe biochemical derangement and advanced hepatic encephalopathy (HE) upon admission. TPE demonstrated significant biological efficacy, consistently reducing hepatic cytolysis and ammonia levels. To further optimize continuous ammonia clearance, one patient underwent continuous venovenous hemodialysis (CVVHD) in conjunction with TPE. Despite these biochemical improvements, clinical outcomes remained poor due to significantly delayed presentations. All patients were admitted at least 2 weeks after symptom onset, largely because jaundice was underestimated and not perceived as a life-threatening symptom. TPE is a biologically effective intervention and a vital bridge to spontaneous liver recovery for PALF in settings without liver transplant capabilities. However, its clinical success is severely limited by delayed hospital admission. The pre-existing and irreversible neurological damage caused by prolonged hyperammonemia ultimately drives mortality. Improving survival rates requires a systemic shift toward early recognition of jaundice and immediate intensive care referral. presentation with advanced neurologic injury. The effects of earlier ALF recognition and referral on outcomes require further investigation.
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The aim was to evaluate the genetic association between sexual precocity and productive performance in Nellore cattle. Records of standardized body weights at 120 (W120), 210 (W210), 365 (W365), and 450 (W450) days of age, Longissimus Muscle Area (LMA), backfat thickness (BFT), and age at first calving (AFC) were used. The mixed linear model included the fixed effects of contemporary groups (composed of herd, year, and season of birth, as well as the animal's sex), in addition to the random effects of direct additive genetic, maternal genetic (for W120 and W210), and maternal permanent environment. The variance components were estimated by the restricted maximum likelihood method. The obtained direct heritability estimates were 0.45, 0.49, 0.42, 0.40, 0.33, 0.19, and 0.08 for W120, W210, W365, W450, LMA, BFT, and AFC, respectively. The Spearman correlations of the animals' breeding values between the weight development estimates were of a high order, and for the traits of backfat thickness and age at first calving, it was 0.27, indicating a relationship at older ages with the onset of the acceleration of adipogenesis. The genetic gain obtained in AFC (0.48 days) with the correlated response related to LMA and BFT was - 0.05 and - 0.19 days, respectively. The genetic correlations obtained between AFC and the weight development traits were positive, however negative with the carcass-associated traits, indicating that the offspring are reproductively precocious, yet lighter and with a greater finish of subcutaneous fat.
To develop mapping algorithms for predicting EQ-5D-Y-3L and CHU-9D utility values from the National Eye Institute 25-Item Visual Function Questionnaire (NEI-VFQ-25) among adolescents with myopia to support economic evaluation. Data were collected from 2,198 adolescents with myopia in China. Conceptual overlap was assessed using Spearman's rank correlation. Six regression models, including ordinary least squares (OLS), Tobit, censored least absolute deviations (CLAD), generalized linear model (GLM), two-part model (TPM), and adjusted limited dependent variable mixture model (ALDVMM), were evaluated. The predictors included the NEI-VFQ-25 total score and the subscale scores. Model performance was assessed via five-fold cross-validation and random sample validation based on mean absolute error (MAE), root mean squared error (RMSE), Akaike information criterion (AIC), Bayesian information criterion (BIC), and the proportions of absolute error (AE) > 0.05. Sensitivity analyses of model validation were conducted. The mean (SD) utility values were 0.962 (0.070) for the EQ-5D-Y-3L and 0.851 (0.160) for the CHU-9D. The NEI-VFQ-25 total score correlated moderately with the CHU-9D (r = 0.50) but weakly with the EQ-5D-Y-3L (r = 0.37). The OLS and GLM using stepwise-selected subscale scores demonstrated the best predictive performance for EQ-5D-Y-3 L (MAE = 0.045, RMSE = 0.061, AE > 0.05 [%] = 30.37%) and CHU-9D (MAE = 0.103, RMSE = 0.139, AE > 0.05 [%] = 61.50%), respectively. Sensitivity analyses generally supported the primary model-selection results. This study established algorithms for estimating EQ-5D-Y-3L and CHU-9D utility values based on NEI-VFQ-25 subscale scores for adolescents with myopia, thus facilitating future economic evaluation for myopia interventions. However, given the limited conceptual overlap between the NEI-VFQ-25 and EQ-5D-Y-3L, the EQ-5D-Y-3L algorithm should be applied with caution.
Cosmetic product use has become increasingly common among adolescents due to aesthetic concerns, self-expression, and social influences. Although previous studies have examined isolated aspects such as cosmetic use frequency or adverse effects, comprehensive evidence integrating usage patterns, motivations, safe use behaviors, adverse effect experiences, and health risk perceptions among adolescents remains limited, particularly in Türkiye. This study aimed to evaluate cosmetic product use behaviors, health risk perceptions, and adverse effect experiences among adolescents, and to identify factors associated with adverse effect experiences and predictors of hormonal disruption risk perception. This descriptive, web-based cross-sectional study was conducted among adolescents aged 12-18 years in Türkiye between June and August 2021. Data were collected using a researcher-developed 29-item questionnaire assessing sociodemographic characteristics, cosmetic product use patterns, health risk perceptions, safe cosmetic use behaviors, and adverse effect experiences. Categorical variables were analyzed using Pearson's chi-square test, Yates correction, Fisher's exact test, or exact methods, as appropriate. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to identify predictors of hormonal disruption risk perception. A total of 248 adolescents participated, of whom 59.3% were female and 87.1% were aged 16-18 years. The most frequently used cosmetic products were shampoo/conditioner (95.9%), oral care products (95.5%), perfume/deodorant (89.8%), and shower gel (80.9%). Female adolescents reported significantly higher use of several skincare and decorative cosmetic products than males (p < 0.05). The most common motivation for cosmetic product use was to look well-groomed (68.6%). Most participants believed that cosmetic product ingredients could be harmful to the body (88.3%), cause cancer (79.9%), or cause hormonal disruption (64.3%). Although several safe cosmetic use behaviors were commonly reported, only 18.0% of participants performed an allergy test before product use. Adverse effects related to cosmetic product use were reported by 26.5% of participants and were significantly associated with recent cosmetic use and the use of hair dye, eye cosmetics, facial care products, acne treatment products, facial makeup products, lip cosmetics, and foot care products (all p < 0.05). Performing an allergy test (OR = 0.268, 95% CI 0.082-0.873), believing that cosmetics may cause cancer (OR = 0.108, 95% CI 0.044-0.266), and reading packaging information (OR = 0.396, 95% CI 0.177-0.883) were independently associated with higher hormonal disruption risk perception. Cosmetic product use is highly prevalent among adolescents, with notable gender differences in usage patterns. Although awareness of cosmetic-related health risks was high, this awareness did not consistently translate into safe cosmetic use behaviors. Targeted educational interventions and adolescent-friendly risk communication strategies may improve safe cosmetic practices and reduce preventable adverse effects.
Theileria equi is a globally significant tick-borne pathogen causing equine piroplasmosis, yet its occurrence in dromedary camels (Camelus dromedarius) is an understudied phenomenon. This study provides an integrated molecular and serological characterization of T. equi in dromedary camels in Egypt. A total of 210 blood samples were collected from apparently healthy slaughtered camels in Giza, Sharqia, and Cairo governorates and subjected to an integrated diagnostic approach comprising microscopic examination, conventional PCR (cPCR), species-specific cPCR, real-time PCR (rtPCR), and competitive ELISA (cELISA). Microscopic examination identified 16/210 (7.6%, 95% CI: 4.7-11.9%) positive samples, while universal cPCR targeting the Babesia/Theileria 18 S rRNA gene yielded a prevalence of 12.4% (26/210, 95% CI: 8.4-17.8%). Species-specific cPCR increased the detection rate to 28.6% (95% CI: 22.7-35.3%), while rtPCR demonstrated superior sensitivity, identifying T. equi DNA in 43.3% (95% CI: 36.8-50.1%) of samples indicating a high carrier state. In contrast, serological analysis via cELISA revealed a markedly low antibody prevalence of 2.4% (95% CI: 1.0-5.5%), likely reflecting the inadequate validation of the commercial equine-specific assay for camelid immunoglobulins rather a true absence of exposure. Phylogenetic analysis based on the partial 18 S rRNA gene of two camel isolates (deposited in GenBank accession numbers PZ014470.1 and PZ014471.1) demonstrated that both clustered tightly within the T. equi genotype A, sharing 98-100% nucleotide identity with equine T. equi strains from geographically diverse regions. Pairwise alignment and genetic distance analyses confirmed minimal divergence between camel-derived and equine-derived isolates, while clear separation was observed from other Theileria and Babesia species. These findings provide unequivocal molecular evidence that Egyptian dromedary camels act as carriers of T. equi strains genetically indistinguishable from those infecting equids, strongly suggesting that camels may act as incidental hosts the epidemiology of equine piroplasmosis. This study underscores the critical need for inclusion of camels in surveillance programmes and tick-borne disease control strategies in endemic regions and the development of camel-specific diagnostic tools.
The FARSA gene encodes the catalytic α-subunit of cytoplasmic phenylalanyl-tRNA synthetase (FARS1), a key enzyme in protein biosynthesis. Biallelic pathogenic variants cause a rare multisystemic disorder of variable severity, usually characterized by early-onset interstitial lung disease (ILD) with neurological and hepatic involvement. We present two genetically confirmed cases of FARSA deficiency and one additional patient with FARSA-related ILD carrying two rare heterozygous variants of uncertain significance and compare their phenotypes with previously reported patients. Clinical, radiologic, laboratory, and genetic features of three pediatric patients were retrospectively reviewed. Whole-exome sequencing confirmed the molecular diagnosis in two patients and identified two rare candidate FARSA variants in one putative case. The results were systematically compared with published cases. Two patients carried homozygous R295W variants, whereas Case 3 carried two rare heterozygous candidate variants, p.Ala90Val and p.Gln341Arg, with unconfirmed phase. Cases 1 and 2 developed ILD during early infancy, whereas Case 3 developed interstitial lung disease after severe RSV pneumonia at 15 months. Imaging showed diffuse ground-glass opacities with interlobular septal thickening in Cases 1 and 2 and a mosaic perfusion pattern in Case 3. Neurologic features included hypotonia, corpus callosum hypoplasia, and periventricular cysts. Liver abnormalities ranged from persistent hypoalbuminemia to intermittent enzyme elevations. Cases 1 and 2 showed persistently elevated inflammatory markers independent of infection. Corticosteroids were ineffective. Rituximab and ruxolitinib were associated with variable clinical benefit: partial stabilization in the severe cases and sustained clinical improvement in the milder pulmonary case. Overall, these patients illustrate a broad phenotypic spectrum of FARSA-related disease, ranging from severe, ventilator-dependent multisystem disease to a milder, lung-dominant form with sustained stabilization.  FARSA-related disease is characterized by severe early-onset ILD, persistent inflammatory activity, and multisystem involvement, but with poor response to current therapies. Our cases emphasize that the pathogenesis probably involves both impaired protein synthesis and chronic inflammatory mechanisms. International collaboration and longitudinal studies are needed to refine the genotype-phenotype correlation and develop innovative treatment strategies that could ultimately improve prognosis and survival. • FARSA deficiency is a rare cause of pediatric interstitial lung disease with multisystem involvement, and only a limited number of cases have been reported. • We report two genetically confirmed cases and one putative FARSA-related ILD case, together with an updated literature review demonstrating the broad phenotypic spectrum and current therapeutic experience.
Limb length discrepancy (LLD) following total knee arthroplasty (TKA) may affect functional outcomes and patient satisfaction. However, relative impact of coronal and sagittal plane deformity correction on change in limb length (CLL) following TKA are still not fully understood. The aim of this study is to guide the surgeon regarding the expected change in limb lengths following correction of coronal and sagittal plane deformities. This retrospective study comprised 237 primary TKAs conducted by a single surgeon from August 2024 to July 2025. Preoperative deformities consisted of 215 varus and 22 valgus knees. Standing anteroposterior radiographs of full length were used to assess the hip-knee-ankle (HKA) angle and limb length before and after the operation. Flexion contracture was assessed through clinical measurement. Correlation and multivariable regression analyses were conducted to ascertain predictors of limb length alteration, while adjusting for possible confounders such as patient height and polyethylene insert thickness. A regression-based predictive model was subsequently developed. Mean limb length showed a notable increase after TKA (10.4 ± 9.1 mm; p < 0.0001). The preoperative HKA angle showed a significant positive correlation with CLL in both varus and valgus knees and remained the strongest independent predictor (p < 0.001 for varus; p = 0.046 for valgus). Preoperative flexion contracture did not show a significant independent association with CLL. Patient height and the thickness of the polyethylene insert did not have a notable effect on changes in limb length. TKA leads to consistent limb lengthening, mainly caused by the correction of coronal plane deformities. Estimating limb length changes before surgery can aid in surgical planning and patient counseling, especially in cases of unilateral or staged bilateral TKA. Level of evidence III, Retrospective comparative cohort study.
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Revascularization surgery is a well-established intervention for both ischemic and hemorrhagic moyamoya disease (MMD). Perioperative ischemic stroke occurs in 5-18% of surgeries, however, evidence-based information for its prevention and related factors remain insufficiently established. The development of collateralization pathways in MMD may play a significant role in optimizing cerebral perfusion as much as possible, therefore, during cerebral revascularization surgery, the tolerance to ischemia may vary depending on the developmental pattern of the preoperative collateral circulation. The aim of this study is to investigate whether differences in preoperative angioarchitecture is associated with the risk of ischemic complications during the perioperative period of revascularization surgery for MMD. This study included 53 hemispheres from 37 consecutive patients with MMD who underwent surgical revascularization between January 2014 and September 2024. The primary outcome was clinically overt perioperative ischemic stroke, defined as an acute-onset focal neurologic deficit accompanied by ipsilateral high-intensity signals on diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging within seven days post-surgery. Among 37 patients (53 hemispheres) with MMD, perioperative ischemic complications occurred in 4 hemispheres (7.55%). The patients with ischemic complications demonstrated a significantly higher prevalence of preoperative angioarchitecture characterized by the presence of thalamic anastomosis compared to those without ischemic complications (p < 0.05). The presence of well-developed thalamic anastomosis in MMD may be associated with perioperative ischemic complications; however, this potential association requires validation in larger-scale studies.
Evidence on the impact of influenza on health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and work productivity and activity impairment (WPAI) remains limited. This study evaluated changes in the EuroQol Visual Analogue Scale (EQ-VAS), EuroQol Utility Index (EQ-UI), absenteeism, presenteeism, work productivity loss, and activity impairment over 1 month during the high-severity 2024-2025 influenza season in the USA. Symptomatic adults (≥ 18 years) with a positive influenza test at ambulatory care clinics within a national US retail pharmacy chain (10/24/2024-4/15/2025) and symptom onset ≤ 4 days of positive test were included. HRQoL was assessed on days 1-7, 10, 14, and week 4 and WPAI on days 1, 7, 14, and week 4. Mixed models for repeated measures estimated mean changes and standard error (SE) from baseline, adjusting for relevant covariates. The analysis included 724 adults (mean [standard deviation (SD)] age: 42.0 [13.0] years; 74.2% female). HRQoL declined following infection: EQ-VAS decreased by 26.6 points (SE 0.9) on day 1 (p < 0.001) and 3.8 (0.8) on day 10 (p < 0.001), while EQ-UI scores decreased by 0.20 (0.01) on day 1 (p < 0.001) and 0.02 (0.01) on day 7 (p < 0.001). Compared with baseline, absenteeism rose by 58.3% (1.9) on day 1 and 34.9% (1.9) on day 7 (p < 0.001); presenteeism increased by 59.2% (2.0), 43.2% (2.0), and 8.8% (1.7) on days 1, 7, and 14 respectively (p < 0.001). Work productivity loss rose by 76.3% (1.7) on day 1, 55.5% (2.1) on day 7, and 8.1% (1.8) on day 14 (p < 0.001). Activity impairment increased by 62.6% (1.6) on Day 1, 43.6% (1.8) on day 7, and 6.6% (1.6) on day 14 (p < 0.001). Influenza was associated with marked declines in HRQoL, productivity, and daily functioning in symptomatic outpatients, highlighting the importance of patient-reported outcomes in capturing influenza's real-world burden. ClinicalTrials.gov identifier. Graphical Abstract available for this article. Influenza (the flu) can seriously disrupt people’s lives, but there is limited long-term research on how it affects persons who are infected but not hospitalized especially during severe flu seasons in the USA. This study followed patients who had flu symptoms and tested positive for flu at ambulatory care clinics in a national retail pharmacy chain for 1 month. This study looked at how the flu impacted patients’ quality of life, ability to work, and daily activities. Patients reported worse quality of life during the first 2 weeks, people missed more work during the first week (up to day 7), continued working while sick for up to two weeks (day 14), and had difficulty working overall and with daily tasks for up to 2 weeks. These findings show that the flu can have lasting effects on individuals’ quality of life, work and everyday activities, even for those who are not hospitalized. It also shows the value of understanding patients’ experiences to show the full impact of the flu. Findings highlights why public health efforts including getting vaccinated against influenza are important for protecting quality of life and reducing missed work.
The Metaproteomics Initiative was officially launched in 2021 to strengthen collaboration, promote knowledge exchange, and support and lead standardization efforts within the growing metaproteomics community. Over the past 5 years, the Initiative has developed into a structured, global network of researchers. It has launched community-driven benchmark studies, helped shape emerging metadata and reporting standards, developed practical guidance and training materials, organized international symposia, and fostered connections across the microbiome research landscape ( https://metaproteomics.org/ ). We outline the Initiative's organization, activities, achievements, and ongoing efforts, and reflect on how sustained, community-led coordination has shaped the development of metaproteomics as a field. We further position the Grand Metaproteome Challenges as a next step toward coordinated, community-scale biological research, aimed at advancing functional microbiome studies across clinical, industrial, and environmental application domains, and invite engagement from the wider microbiome and omics communities. Video Abstract.
According to the investment model of commitment processes, relationships are more likely to persist when people are highly satisfied with their partner, invested in the relationship, and perceive poor alternatives to it. Although this model has proven robust across relationship contexts, research has yet to examine commitment processes in online camming relationships-relationships between cam models and members of adult camming websites. An increasing number of people are engaging in online camming relationships, with some reporting that their interactions are not strictly sexual and involve some degree of intimacy. Yet, little is known about the factors that facilitate commitment between cam models and members. In a cross-sectional study of cam models (N = 199) and members (N = 544) from LiveJasmin, surveyed separately (i.e., not as matched dyads), we tested whether satisfaction, investment, and alternatives were associated with current commitment and future planned investment among cam models and members. Based on past research suggesting that alternatives are not as predictive of commitment in multi-partnered relationships and that camming interactions can feature intimacy, we tested an alternative model that replaces the quality of alternatives with intimacy. Results suggest that, in most cases, when cam models or members on camming sites reported greater satisfaction, investment, and intimacy, they, in turn, reported greater current commitment and intentions to invest in their relationship in the future, whereas the quality of alternatives was not a significant predictor. These findings highlight the importance of intimacy in driving commitment within camming relationships, suggesting that emotional connections play a vital role in sustaining these interactions beyond financial exchanges and relationship satisfaction.