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ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY RELEVANCE: Palm buds are a natural green resource of the forest, which are not only rich in nutrients but contain a large number of phenolic acids and flavonoids, among other components. It has a variety of biological activities such as antioxidant and uterine smooth muscle stimulation. AIM OF THE STUDY: To evaluate the safety of palm buds for use as a nutraceutical product and food by evaluating the toxicity, subacute toxicity and genotoxicity of the young palm buds. Also studied for its immune-enhancing activity. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Acute toxicity tests were performed in mice using the maximum tolerance method, and the manifestations of toxicity and deaths were recorded after administration of 10,000 mg/mL for 14 consecutive d (days) of observations. To assess subacute toxicity, mice were treated with palm buds (750, 1500, or 3000 mg/mL) daily for 28 days. The teratogenicity of palm buds was assessed by the Ames test, the mouse bone marrow cell micronucleus test, and the mouse spermatozoa malformation test. In addition, we evaluated the immune-enhancing ability of palm buds by the mouse carbon profile test, delayed-type metamorphosis reaction, and serum hemolysin assay. RESULTS: In the acute toxicity study, the Median Lethal Dose (LD50) was greater than 10,000 mg/kg bw in both male and female rats. There were also no deaths or serious toxicities in the subacute study. The no-observed-adverse-effect level (NOAEL) was 3000 mg/kg bw. However, the mice's food intake decreased after one week. The medium and high dose groups had a reducing effect on body weight in mice of both sexes. In addition, the changes in organ coefficients of the liver, kidney and stomach in male mice were significantly higher in the high-dose group (3.23 ± 0.35, 0.75 ± 0.05, 0.57 ± 0.05 g) than in the control group (2.94 ± 0.18, 0.58 ± 0.05, 0.50 ± 0.02 g). Hematological analyses showed that all the indices of the rats in each palm sprout dose group were within the normal range. The results of blood biochemical indicators showed that there was a significant reduction in TP in the blood of male mice in the high-dose group (44.6 ± 7.8 g/L) compared to the control group (58.3 ± 15.1 g/L). In histopathological analysis, none of the significant histopathological changes were observed. The results of the immunological experiment in mice showed that the liver coefficient and thymus coefficient of the high-dose group (8400 mg/kg) were significantly lower than the control group. There was no remarkable difference in auricle swelling between each dose palm bud group (1400, 2800, or 8400 mg/kg) and the control group. The anti-volume number of the high-dose group was significantly increased. CONCLUSION: Palm buds have non-toxic effects in vivo and have little effect on non-specific and cellular immunity in the test mice within the dose range of this experiment. The immunoenhancement in mice is mainly achieved through humoral immunity. In conclusion, our results suggest that palm buds are safe for use as healthcare products and food.

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The compartmentalization of chromatin reflects its underlying biological activities. Inferring chromatin sub-compartments using Hi-C data is challenged by data resolution constraints. Consequently, comprehensive characterizations of sub-compartments have been limited to a select number of Hi-C experiments, with systematic comparisons across a wide range of tissues and conditions still lacking. Our original Calder algorithm marked a significant advancement in this field, enabling the identification of multi-scale sub-compartments at various data resolutions and facilitating the inference and comparison of chromatin architecture in over 100 datasets. Building on this foundation, we introduce Calder2, an updated version of Calder that brings notable improvements. These include expanded support for a wider array of genomes and organisms, an optimized bin size selection approach for more accurate chromatin compartment detection, and extended support for input and output formats. Calder2 thus stands as a refined analysis tool, significantly advancing genome-wide studies of 3D chromatin architecture and its functional implications.

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Wild giant pandas are inherently solitary creatures, however, the ex-situ conservation efforts significantly alter the living circumstances of their captive counterparts. Following the breeding period, giant pandas in captivity may be maintained in social groups. Currently, there is a lack of research on the effects of group housing on the physiology, behavior, and gut microbiota of captive giant pandas. This study divided six captive giant pandas into two groups following the breeding period. By comparing the behavior, physiology, and microorganisms of the two groups, we aim to investigate the behavioral responses and physiological adaptation mechanisms exhibited by captive giant pandas in a "group living" state. Our findings indicate that sub-adult giant pandas housed in group settings exhibit a significantly longer duration of playing behavior (including interactive and non-interactive play) compared to their counterparts housed separately (p < 0.001) while also demonstrating a significantly lower duration of stereotyped behavior than their separately housed counterparts. Additionally, an analysis of urine cortisol and heart rate variability between the two groups revealed no significant differences. Simultaneously, the group housing strategy markedly elevated the ß diversity of gut microbiota in sub-adult giant pandas. In conclusion, the group-rearing model during the sub-adult stage has been shown to significantly alter the behavioral patterns of captive giant pandas. In conclusion, within the present captive setting, the group-rearing approach during the sub-adult stage proved to be less distressing for adult captive giant pandas.

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BACKGROUND: Even though effective neonatal resuscitation prevents the consequences of neonatal death related to birth asphyxia, a significant portion of healthcare personnel lacked understanding or performed it inconsistently. It is critical to have a comprehensive study that demonstrates the overall level of knowledge of healthcare providers regarding neonatal resuscitation in Eastern Africa. METHODS: Articles were searched from Science Direct, JBI databases, Web of Sciences, PubMed, and Google Scholar. The primary outcome was the level of knowledge of health care providers regarding neonatal resuscitation. Data were analyzed using Stata version 18 statistical software. The overall estimates with a 95% confidence interval were estimated using a random effect model. RESULTS: In this meta-analysis study, 7916 healthcare providers were included. The overall level of knowledge on neonatal resuscitation among healthcare providers in Eastern Africa was 59% [95% CI: 48-70]. Trained health care providers (OR = 3.63, 95% CI: 2.26, 5.00), and work experience of 5 years and above (OR = 2.08, 95% CI: 1.00, 3.16) were determinants of the level of knowledge. However, the level of education and availability of equipment were found to be insignificantly associated with the level of knowledge. CONCLUSIONS: The results of this meta-analysis showed that healthcare professionals in Eastern Africa lacked sufficient knowledge about neonatal resuscitation. Having 5 years of work experience and training in neonatal resuscitation was found to be strongly associated with knowledge level. Thus, continuing education, training courses, and frequent updates on neonatal resuscitation protocols are required for healthcare professionals.

Main findings The overall level of knowledge on neonatal resuscitation among healthcare providers in Eastern Africa was 59% [95% CI: 48­70].Added knowledge This study provides cumulative evidence on the level of knowledge of healthcare providers regarding neonatal resuscitation, and there are regional disparities and inconsistent explanations of risk factors.Global health impact for policy and action There is insufficient knowledge among healthcare providers on neonatal resuscitation in Eastern Africa, which can contribute to higher rates of neonatal mortality, highlighting the urgent need for targeted policy interventions.

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The scaling of bulk Si-based transistors has reached its limits, while novel architectures such as FinFETs and GAAFETs face challenges in sub-10 nm nodes due to complex fabrication processes and severe drain-induced barrier lowering (DIBL) effects. An effective strategy to avoid short-channel effects (SCEs) is the integration of low-dimensional materials into novel device architectures, leveraging the coupling between multiple gates to achieve efficient electrostatic control of the channel. We employed TCAD simulations to model multi-gate FETs based on various dimensional systems and comprehensively investigated electric fields, potentials, current densities, and electron densities within the devices. Through continuous parameter scaling and extracting the sub-threshold swing (SS) and DIBL from the electrical outputs, we offered optimal MoS2 layer numbers and single-walled carbon nanotube (SWCNT) diameters, as well as designed structures for multi-gate FETs based on monolayer MoS2, identifying dual-gate transistors as suitable for high-speed switching applications. Comparing the switching performance of two device types at the same node revealed CNT's advantages as a channel material in mitigating SCEs at sub-3 nm nodes. We validated the performance enhancement of 2D materials in the novel device architecture and reduced the complexity of the related experimental processes. Consequently, our research provides crucial insights for designing next-generation high-performance transistors based on low-dimensional materials at the scaling limit.

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BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Boxing is associated with a high risk of head injuries and increases the likelihood of chronic traumatic encephalopathy. This study explores the effects of sub-concussive impacts on boxers by applying both linear and nonlinear analysis methods to electroencephalogram (EEG) data. METHODS: Twenty-one boxers were selected (mean ± SD, age 28.38 ± 5.5 years; weight 67.55 ± 8.90 kg; years of activity 6.76 ± 5.45; education 14.19 ± 3.08 years) and divided into 'beginner' and 'advanced' groups. The Montreal Cognitive Assessment and the Frontal Assessment Battery were administered; EEG data were collected in both eyes-open (EO) and eyes-closed (EC) conditions during resting states. Analyses of EEG data included normalized power spectral density (nPSD), power law exponent (PLE), detrended fluctuation analysis and multiscale entropy. Statistical analyses were used to compare the groups. RESULTS: Significant differences in nPSD and PLE were observed between the beginner and advanced boxers, with advanced boxers showing decreased mean nPSD and PLE (nPSD 4-7 Hz, p = 0.013; 8-13 Hz, p = 0.003; PLE frontal lobe F3 EC, p = 0.010). Multiscale entropy analysis indicated increased entropy at lower frequencies and decreased entropy at higher frequencies in advanced boxers (F3 EC, p = 0.024; occipital lobe O1 EO, p = 0.029; occipital lobe O2 EO, p = 0.036). These changes are similar to those seen in Alzheimer's disease. CONCLUSION: Nonlinear analysis of EEG data shows potential as a neurophysiological biomarker for detecting the asymptomatic phase of chronic traumatic encephalopathy in boxers. This methodology could help monitor athletes' health and reduce the risk of future neurological injuries in sports.

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Uterine cancer is the most common gynecologic malignancy in the United States, with endometrioid endometrial adenocarcinoma (EC) being the most common histologic sub-type. Considering the molecular classifications of EC, efforts have been made to identify additional biomarkers that can assist in diagnosis, prognosis, and individualized therapy. We sought to explore the relationship of Repressor Element 1 (RE1) silencing transcription factor (REST), which downregulates neuronal genes in non-neuronal tissue, along with matrix metalloproteinase-24 (MMP24) and EC. We analyzed the expression of REST and MMP24 in 31 cases of endometrial cancer and 16 controls. We then explored the baseline expression of REST and MMP24 in two EC cell lines (Ishikawa and HEC-1-A) compared to a benign cell line (t-HESC) and subsequently evaluated proliferation, migration, and invasion in the setting of loss of REST gene expression. REST and MMP24 expression were significantly lower in human EC samples compared to control samples. REST was highly expressed in EC cell lines, but decreasing REST gene expression increased proliferation (FC: 1.13X, p < 0.0001), migration (1.72X, p < 0.0001), and invasion (FC: 7.77X, p < 0.05) in Ishikawa cells, which are hallmarks of cancer progression and metastasis. These findings elicit a potential role for REST as a putative tumor suppressor in EC.

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PURPOSE: To assess the differences in variant classifications using the ACMG/AMP 2015 guidelines and the Bayesian point-based classification system (here referred to as the point system) in 115 hereditary cancer predisposition genes and explore variant sub-tiering by the point system. METHODS: Germline variant classifications for 721 pediatric patients from an in-house panel were retrospectively evaluated using the two scoring systems. RESULTS: 2376 unique variants were identified, with ∼23.5% exhibiting discordant classifications. Unique variants classified by the point system demonstrated a lower rate of variants of uncertain significance (VUS; ∼15%) compared to ACMG/AMP 2015 (∼36%). This change is attributed to unique variants with one benign supporting evidence (∼12%) or one benign strong evidence (∼4%) being classified as likely benign by the point system. Additionally, variants with conflicting/modified evidence (∼5% of 2376) are also resolved by the point system. Sub-tiering unique variants classified by the point system as VUS (n=354) indicates ∼77.4% were VUS-Low (0-1 points), while the remaining ∼22.6% were VUS-Mid (2-3 points) and VUS-High (4-5 points). CONCLUSION: The point system reduces the VUS rate and facilitates their sub-tiering. Future large-scale studies are warranted to explore the impact of the point system on improving VUS reporting and/or VUS clinical management.

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Lead-free halide double perovskite (HDP) Cs2AgBiBr6 has set a benchmark for research in HDP photoelectric applications due to its attractive optoelectronic properties. However, its narrow absorption range is a key limitation of this material. Herein, a novel dopant, palladium (Pd), is doped into Cs2AgBiBr6 and significantly extends the absorption to ≈1400 nm. Pd2+ ions are partially doped in the host lattice, most probably replacing Ag atoms and introducing a sub-bandgap state within the host bandgap, as indicated by the combination of spectroscopical measurements and theoretical calculations. Importantly, this sub-bandgap state extends the photoresponse of Cs2AgBiBr6 up to the NIR-II region of 1300 nm, setting a new record for HDPs. This work demonstrates a novel and efficient dopant for HDPs and highlights the effectiveness of employing a sub-bandgap to broaden the absorption of HDPs, shedding new light on tailoring large bandgap HDPs for NIR optoelectronic applications.

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PURPOSE: To investigate the psychometric properties of the MOSE-Benin, a French-language version of the Measure of Stroke Environment (MOSE) for Sub-Saharan Africa. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The original English version of the MOSE has been translated into French following the guidelines for cross-cultural adaptation. The resulting questionnaire (MOSE-Benin) was administered to a convenience sample of participants recruited in Benin, a French-speaking country. RESULTS: Eighty-two stroke survivors (41 females; mean ± SD: 54.94 ± 11.6 years old) participated in the study. Internal consistency of each domain of the MOSE-Benin and the overall questionnaire was high (Cronbach's α: 0.78 to 0.92). Test-retest reliability was excellent (n = 31; ICC: 0.977 to 0.998). Overall, the standard error of measurement (SEM) and the minimum detectable change (MDC) showed very low values (SEM = 0.85; MDC = 2.35). Convergent validity demonstrated moderate correlations for the three domains in separate comparison respectively with the ACTIVLIM-Stroke questionnaire, the Participation Measurement Scale, and the communication domain of the Stroke Impact Scale (r or ρ: 0.42 to 0.54; p < 0.0001). CONCLUSION: MOSE-Benin has good evidence regarding psychometric properties (i.e., content validity, convergent validity, internal consistency, and test-retest reliability) that can support its use for the assessment of perceived environmental barriers after stroke in a French-speaking Sub-Saharan African country, such as Benin.

Stroke survivors in French-speaking Sub-Saharan Africa may face environmental challenges related to acceptability, physical environment, and communication.Stroke survivors should be assessed in their communities to identify environmental barriers, using valid and robust tools.A French version of the MOSE (MOSE-Benin) is now available and can be used to assess the environmental concerns faced by stroke survivors in Sub-Saharan Africa.

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Third space endoscopy (TSE) or sub-mucosal endoscopy using a mucosal flap valve (SEMF) enables the endoscopist to operate in the deeper layers of the gastrointestinal tract or gain access to the mediastinal/peritoneal cavity for natural orifice transoral endoscopic surgery (NOTES). TSE procedures are essentially endoscopic surgical procedures with a variable learning curve. Adverse events (AEs) during TSE are specific and follow a certain pattern across the spectrum of TSE procedures. These can be broadly categorized according to either type of AE, time of presentation relative to the procedure or according to degree of severity. Three major categories of AEs encountered during TSE include insufflation related AEs, mucosal injuries (MIs) and bleeding. Other relevant AEs include infectious complications, aspiration pneumonia, post-procedural chest/abdominal pain, atelectasis, cardiac arrhythmias, pleural effusion and pulmonary embolism. Reported incidence of AEs during TSE procedures varies according to the type and complexity of procedure. Acquaintance regarding potential risk factors, technical tips and precautions, alarm signs for early recognition, assessment of degree of severity, morphological characterization of AEs and finally, expeditious selection of appropriate management strategy are crucial and imperative for successful clinical outcomes. The current review discusses the current evidence and practical guidelines for prevention, early detection and management of TSE-related AEs.

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BACKGROUND: Pregnancy-related anxiety significantly impacts maternal and fetal health in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), including those within Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Most studies conducted to evaluate pregnancy-related anxiety in LMICs have utilized scales developed in high-income countries, despite significant variations in pregnancy-related anxiety due to socioeconomic and cultural contexts. This review surveyed existing literature in order to identify which scales have been used to measure pregnancy-related anxiety in SSA. METHODS: A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, Health and Psychosocial Instruments, and APA PsycNet for relevant studies published in the English language up to March 22, 2023. Eligible studies focused on anxiety in pregnant populations within SSA, using validated scales or tools. Screening followed PRIMSA guidelines, with blinded review at the abstract/title level and subsequent full-text review. Data was extracted and analyzed to identify trends and characteristics of the screening tools used. RESULTS: From 271 articles, 37 met inclusion criteria, identifying 24 different tools used to measure anxiety in pregnant women in SSA. The most common tools were the Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7-item scale (seven uses), State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (five uses), and the Self-Reporting Questionnaire 20 (five uses). Seven tools were pregnancy-specific, with only two designed specifically for SSA: the Risk Factor Assessment (RFA), and the 4-Item Screening Tool. Studies were most frequently conducted in South Africa, followed by Tanzania, Ethiopia, Nigeria, and Ghana. CONCLUSIONS: This scoping review illustrates that only two tools (the RFA and 4-item Screening Tool) were created to assess pregnancy-related anxiety specifically in SSA. This highlights the need for more culturally sensitive tools tailored to the specific contexts of pregnant populations in SSA.

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BACKGROUND: Understanding the determinant factors contributing to severely wasted is crucial in decreasing the problem and meeting the World Health Global Nutrition Target by 2025. This study investigated the determinants of severely wasted among children under five years old in Indonesia's rural and sub-urban areas. MATERIALS AND METHOD: This was a cross-sectional study of severely wasted children in rural and sub-urban areas in East Java, Indonesia. Collected data on individual characteristics, socio-economic status, nutrient intake, environmental and food sanitation, and health service utilization were obtained by structured questionnaires. An ordinal regression and Chi-square test were applied to determine the factors with a significance level 0.05. RESULTS: As many as 25 respondents in rural areas and 30 in sub-urban areas were included after receiving informed consent. Age and household environmental and food sanitation were associated with severely wasted in rural and sub-urban areas, with P < 0.05. Meanwhile, family members, income, and calcium intake were only in rural areas. Birth spacing, nutrient intake, except calcium intake, and health care utilization were the only factors in sub-urban areas. The low-birth-weight history, sex, mother's education, and the parent's occupation did not correlate with the severely wasted in rural and sub-urban areas. CONCLUSION: The determinant factors of under-five years of severely wasted children in rural and sub-urban areas of Indonesia are different, so it is vital to design regional-based approaches to tackle the problem.

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BACKGROUND: Stroke burden, measured by DALYs, reveals a growing concern in sub-Saharan Africa. Ischemic stroke, exacerbated by modifiable risk factors like hypertension and household air pollution, poses a significant health challenge. Regional disparities, economic development, and healthcare inefficiencies underscore the need for targeted interventions and further research. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to analyze trends in the burden of ischemic stroke across specific regions in sub-Saharan Africa from 2000 to 2019. The objective is to identify key changes in stroke burden progression and highlight modifiable risk factors. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Utilizing World Health Organization (WHO) data from 2000 and 2019, national estimates of ischemic stroke DALYs in 49 sub-Saharan African countries were collected. DALYs were calculated per 100,000 population to reduce the impact of population size. Statistical analyses and visual representations using MapChart were employed to interpret the trends. RESULTS: The study reveals wide variations in ischemic stroke DALYs changes across sub-Saharan African countries from 2000 to 2019. Predominantly, countries in the Eastern and Southern regions experienced adverse increases, while those in the Central and West regions mostly exhibited declines in DALYs. Countries such as Lesotho, Zimbabwe, and Mauritius, saw the most significant DALYs increases, whereas Rwanda, Malawi, and Equatorial Guinea experienced the most favorable changes. CONCLUSIONS: Stroke is a pressing health concern in sub-Saharan Africa. Modifiable risk factors like hypertension and household air pollution necessitate targeted interventions. Tailored healthcare policies, reinforced health systems and comprehensive research into region-specific risk factors are crucial to alleviate stroke-related morbidity and mortality in the region. Addressing these challenges is vital to mitigate the increasing burden of stroke in the particular regions of sub-Saharan Africa.

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Sub-Tenon's block has a superior safety profile and life-threatening complications such as cardiovascular collapse and brainstem anaesthesia are extremely rare. We report a case of cardiorespiratory collapse following bilateral sub-Tenon's blocks at the conclusion of a laser photocoagulation procedure under general anaesthesia. The cause was most likely brainstem anaesthesia. We explore and discuss the likely mechanisms and other potential differential diagnoses. It highlights the importance of maintaining vigilance following an eye block. Attention should not falter upon completing a block or at the conclusion of a case, regardless of its type or safety profile. This case also illustrates how the presence of general anaesthesia may obscure and delay the diagnosis of brainstem anaesthesia.

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Although serving as the workhorse, MS/MS cannot fully satisfy the analytical requirements of quantitative sub-metabolome characterization. Because more information intrinsically correlates to more structural and concentration clues, here, efforts were devoted to comprehensively tracing and deciphering MS/MS behaviors through constructing triple three-dimensional (3×3D)-MS/MS spectrum. Ginsenosides-targeted metabolomics of notoginseng, one of the most famous edible medicinal plants, was employed as a proof-of-concept. Serial authentic ginsenosides were deployed to build the correlations between 3×3D-MS/MS spectra and structure/concentration features. Through assaying ginsenosides with progressive concentrations using QTOF-MS to configure 1st 3D spectrum, the generations of MS1 spectral signals, particularly multi-charged multimer anions, e.g., [2M-2H]2- and [2M+2HCOO]2- ions, relied on both concentration and the amount of sugar chains. By programming progressive collision energies to the front collision cell of Qtrap-MS device to gain 2nd 3D spectrum, optimal collision energy (OCE) corresponding to the glycosidic bond fission was primarily correlated with the masses of precursor and fragment ions and partially governed by the glycosidation site. The quantitative relationships between OCEs and masses of precursor and fragment ions were utilized to build large-scale quantitative program for ginsenosides. After applying progressive exciting energies to the back collision chamber to build 3rd 3D spectrum, the fragment ion and the decomposition product anion exhibited identical dissociation trajectories when they shared the same molecular geometry. After ginsenosides-focused quantitative metabolomics, significant differences occurred for sub-metabolome amongst different parts of notoginseng. The differential ginsenosides were confirmatively identified by applying the correlations between 3×3D-MS/MS spectra and structures. Together, 3×3D-MS/MS spectrum covers all MS/MS behaviors and dramatically facilitates sub-metabolome characterization from both quantitative program development and structural identification.

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Background: The relative efficacy of 532 nm subthreshold micropulse laser in comparison to the 810 nm subthreshold micropulse laser, in the treatment of central serous chorioretinopathy is not known. Methods: This randomized controlled trial included 99 eyes each in groups A and B. Key inclusion criteria were: (i) vision loss for minimum three months due to persistent central serous chorioretinopathy; (ii) focal leaks (upto two leaks) on fundus fluorescein angiography. Key exclusion criteria were: (i) history of prior treatment for central serous chorioretinopathy; (ii) absence of any leak/ presence of diffuse leaks/ >2 leaks on fundus fluorescein angiography; (iii) chronic central serous chorioretinopathy. All eyes were treated with subthreshold micropulse laser (group A: 532 nm green laser; group B: 810 nm diode laser). Best-corrected visual acuity, autofluorescence, spectral domain optical coherence tomography, and fundus fluorescein angiography, were evaluated at baseline and at 1, 3, and 6 months. Laser was repeated in nor-responders at 3 months. Results: There was a statistically significant improvement in BCVA in both groups six months post laser. Between the two groups, a comparable proportion of eyes showed complete resolution of subretinal fluid at one month, three months and at six months. No adverse effect of laser was observed in either group. Conclusion: Both 532 nm STMP laser and 810 nm STMP laser have comparable structural and functional outcomes in the treatment of non-resolving CSC. There are no adverse effects related to either of the two wavelengths.

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INTRODUCTION: Due to its geographical proximity to Europe, Morocco experiences a significant influx of migrants from neighboring Sub-Saharan African countries. Attempts to cross the Strait of Gibraltar make Northern Morocco a stopover for Sub-Saharan migrants. However, faced with increasingly restrictive measures from European Union countries, many of these migrants are compelled to turn this transit into a prolonged stay in Morocco, often in irregular status and facing challenging socio-economic conditions that threaten their health and their quality of life-related to health. This study aims to assess the level of health-related quality of life and its determinants among irregular Sub-Saharan migrants in Northern Morocco using the 36-Item Short Form Survey (SF-36) measurement scale. METHOD: A total of 526 irregular Sub-Saharan migrants residing in the cities of Tangier and Tetouan were recruited using snowball sampling. A socio-demographic information sheet and the SF-36 scale were used to collect data. Subsequently, the data were entered and statistically analyzed using Statistical Product and Service Solutions (SPSS, version 21.0; IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, Armonk, NY). Numerical variables were summarized as mean ± standard deviation and categorical variables as frequency and percentage. Non-parametric tests, including the Mann-Whitney U test and Kendall's Tau-B, were used to measure the association of physical and mental component scores with sociodemographic variables, for a significance level set at p < 0.05. Multivariate logistic regression was conducted to identify factors determining health-related quality of life, using odds ratios (OR) and a 95% confidence interval (CI) for p < 0.05. RESULTS: Participants were aged between 18 and 50 years, with a mean age of 29.7 ± 7.6 years; 80% were single, and the majority were male (63.7%). In terms of education, 57.2% have a secondary level. The physical (PCS = 46.5 ± 9.03) and mental (MCS = 35.5 ± 9.9) summary scores were low. PCS and MCS were lower among subjects aged ≥ 36 years compared to those aged 18-25 years (p = 0.000). Women had lower PCS than men (p = 0.002). The migrants having more than three years in Morocco had lower MCS compared to those recently settled (p = 0.002). PCS and MCS were lower among participants who were assaulted compared to those who were not (p = 0.000). Multivariate logistic regression results showed that age, type of habitat, and assault significantly affected both PCS and MCS scores. Gender is a significant determinant for PCS and duration of stay in Morocco for MCS. CONCLUSION: The quality of life of Sub-Saharan irregular migrants appears to be low, particularly concerning the mental health component, highlighting the need for priority interventions in this area to improve their health status.

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Neoplastic plasma cells (PCs) proliferation at anatomic sites dislocated from the bone marrow (BM) or their contiguous growth from osseous lesions that disrupt the cortical bone is termed extramedullary multiple myeloma (EMD). EMD still remains challenging from a therapeutic and biological perspective. Pathogenesis has not been completely clarified, and it is generally associated with high-risk cytogenetics (HRCAs). In order to emphasize the clinical and biochemical complexity of this disease, we have decided to describe the case of a patient affected by relapsed-refractory (RR) EMD, which presented as para-osseous plasmacytoma with a bi-phenotypical immunoglobulin (Ig) component and lately relapsed as soft-tissue plasmacytoma with a total immunophenotype switch. We have also hypothesized a correlation between Ig patterns and prognosis and suggested the possible inclusion of these biochemical features in the general risk assessment.

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A thriving literature exists about the role of financial inclusion in socio-economic development. Nevertheless, the environmental effects of financial inclusion are largely unknown in the literature, especially in sub-Saharan African countries. Therefore, this study explores the association between financial inclusion and CO2 emissions utilizing data from 23 sub-Saharan Africa for the period 2004-2019. Based on different estimation methods such as dynamic ordinary least squares (DOLS), fully modified ordinary least squares (FMOLS), canonical correlation regression (CCR), and an instrumental variable generalized-method of moment (IV-GMM), the results show that financial inclusion is responsible for a substantial increase in CO2 emissions. In addition, financial inclusion moderates economic growth, resulting in higher CO2 emissions. Alternatively, financial inclusion moderates renewable energy use to lower CO2 emissions. The outcomes also verify the presence of the Environmental Kuznets Curve hypothesis (EKC). This study proposes uniting financial inclusion and environmental policies as a strategy for reducing CO2 emissions in sub-Saharan Africa.

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