Abstract: In this study, we have investigated the existence and properties of solitons in an unmagnetized plasma composed of positive ions, negative ions, negatively charged dust grains, non-thermal electrons and non-extensive positrons. We have conducted our study on this complex plasma model because it moves away from simplistic and idealized plasma models. Also, study of solitons has not been conducted previously on this complex plasma model. Through the Sagdeev potential method we have derived the energy integral and investigated the variation of the Sagdeev potential for different values of the parameters that are involved in our plasma model. We have found that the non-thermal parameter (β) and the non-extensive parameter(q) significantly influence the features of the solitons. The features of the solitons are also found to be influenced by the Mach number (M), the negative ion to positive ion mass ratio (Ω), the positron to positive ion density ratio (δp) , the electron to positron temperature ratio (σp), the dust charge density ratio (δd ) and the negative ion to positive ion density ratio(δ_ ). The results from our study can be useful in investigating plasma in astrophysical environments, such as cometary tails and interstellar clouds.

Abstract: Background: Cervical cancer remains a major public health in sub-Saharan Africa, despite the availability of effective screening methods. In Cameroon, screening coverage remains low, largely due to several factors. The COVID-19 pandemic further exacerbated these challenges. However, the magnitude of the COVID-19 pandemic impact, remains poorly documented in the Cameroonian context. Understanding the interplay between all, is therefore essential to guide targeted interventions aimed at improving cervical cancer screening coverage and achieving global elimination targets. Methodology: A mixed observational analytic study combining a cross-sectional survey with a retrospective trend reconstruction, was undertaken from January 2016 to December 2024, in five regions of Cameroon: The Centre, South, North, Far North, and Littoral regions. A total of 3751 women ages between 25 and 65 years agreed to participate and were interviewed with semi-structured questionnaires, as well as health care workers, service providers, and health professionals. The data collected, captured access to screening services, perceived socio-economic and environmental barriers, and actual use of cytological and HPV tests. Results: A low screening uptake were observed. The non-use of services was significantly related to living in rural locations (OR=0.55, p=0.001), low education attainment (OR=1 for none, OR=1.45 for higher education, p=0.003), and lower social coverage (OR=1 for uninsured, OR = 2.30 for insured, p=0.001). The top barriers to accessing services reported by participants were cost, distance to services, and poor information providing (all p=0.001). Conclusion: all these barriers inhibit the early diagnosis of cervical cancer in Cameroon. COVID-19 pandemic plays a crucial role in reducing availability of screening programs and decreased healthcare utilization by women due to fear of infection and movement restrictions

Abstract: Electrospinning is a relatively easy and perspective method for producing polymeric, ceramic, and composite fibers, which may vary from several nanometers to several micrometers. Poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) is a water-soluble, non-toxic, and biocompatible polymer with good mechanical properties, making it widely used for electrospinning. In this study, the influence of PVA solution concentration, applied voltage, tip-to-collector distance, and needle size on the morphology and diameter of the obtained fibers was investigated in order to optimize the conditions for the production of bead-free nanofibers. For this purpose, PVA solutions with different concentrations (5, 7.5, and 10 wt.%) were prepared and electrospun by altering the parameters of the process. Fiber morphology and diameter distribution as a function of the studied parameters were evaluated by Scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The results demonstrated a strong dependence of fiber morphology on solution viscosity. At low concentration (5 wt.%), fibers with numerous bead defects were obtained. Increasing the concentration to 7.5 wt.% led to a significant reduction in bead defect. Further increasing the concentration up to 10 wt.% led to the production of smooth and homogeneous fibers under the optimized conditions. A non-linear relationship between fiber diameter and tip-to-collector distance was observed, with an optimal distance of 140 mm yielding the thinnest and most uniform fibers. Additionally, needle diameter was found to influence both fiber size and process stability. Smaller needle diameters (G22) enabled the production of finer fibers (~180 nm), but with increased sensitivity to processing conditions, whereas larger diameters (G20–G21) provided more stable jet behavior and narrower diameter distributions. The statistical analysis ANOVA confirmed these findings. The study provides useful insights for optimizing electrospinning parameters to obtain high-quality, bead-free PVA nanofibers.

Abstract: Neuroendocrine differentiation in tumors of the female genital tract is an uncommon but diagnostically consequential finding. Its interpretation is challenging because neuroendocrine marker expression does not necessarily define a neuroendocrine neoplasm. Focal or aberrant staining for synaptophysin, chromogranin A, CD56 or INSM1 may occur in otherwise conventional gynecologic carcinomas, whereas true poorly differentiated neuroendocrine carcinomas represent aggressive tumors with distinct prognostic and therapeutic implications. This narrative review examines neuroendocrine differentiation across the cervix, endometrium, ovary, vagina and vulva from an integrated clinicopathologic perspective. We emphasize that neuroendocrine differentiation should be approached as a diagnostic and biological spectrum, ranging from incidental immunophenotypic expression to carcinoma with neuroendocrine differentiation, mixed neuroendocrine/non-neuroendocrine tumors, well-differentiated neuroendocrine tumors and poorly differentiated neuroendocrine carcinomas. Morphology remains the diagnostic anchor, while immunohistochemistry, molecular context and clinicoradiologic correlation refine classification and help exclude mimics or metastatic disease. Site-specific interpretation is essential: cervical neuroendocrine car-cinoma is commonly HPV-associated and clinically aggressive; endometrial tumors require integration with p53, mismatch repair, POLE and SWI/SNF-related contexts; ovarian lesions demand distinction between primary well-differentiated neuroendocrine tumors, poorly differentiated carcinomas and metastases; and vaginal or vulvar tumors require careful exclusion of adjacent extension, cutaneous mimics and extragenital primaries. We propose a practical diagnostic framework that separates incidental marker expression from clinically meaningful neuroendocrine differentiation and links this distinction to reporting, prognosis and treatment. The central diagnostic question is not whether neuroendocrine markers are expressed, but whether their expression defines a morphologically, biologically and clinically meaningful tumor category.

Abstract: Urban noise pollution disproportionately affects Latin American cities, where rapid urbanization, weak governance and limited monitoring networks coexist with diverse economic activities. This study compares the spatial and temporal dynamics of environmental noise between two Colombian municipalities with contrasting urban typologies: Soledad (Atlántico), a metropolitan city dominated by traffic and aircraft noise, and Montelíbano (Córdoba, ~86,647 inhabitants), a mid-sized municipality whose acoustic environment is conditioned by ferronickel mining (Cerro Matoso), heavy-duty transport and small-scale aviation. A two-tier methodology was applied: (i) field monitoring under Colombian Resolution 627 of 2006 (LAeq) at 80 points in Soledad and 30 points in Montelíbano, covering daytime and night-time periods including replicates; and (ii) noise dispersion modelling in SoundPLAN Essential v5.1/6.0 using the ISO 9613-2 propagation method, calibrated with field measurements through an iterative residual-minimization process. Results show that Soledad exhibits a strong day–night gradient (mean LAeq diurnal = 67.7 dB(A); nocturnal = 61.7 dB(A); 96.2% non-compliance at night) with linear-corridor acoustic patterns driven by arterial roads and the Ernesto Cortissoz airport, while Montelíbano displays a near-flat day–night profile (diurnal = 67.1 dB(A); nocturnal = 67.0 dB(A)) consistent with continuous mining-industrial operations. The modelled maps reproduce the measured patterns with mean residuals of −2.72 dB(A) (day) and −2.92 dB(A) (night) in Montelíbano (75% within ±5 dB(A), consistent with international SoundPLAN benchmarks), and mean residuals of +5.78 dB(A) (day) and +1.43 dB(A) (night) in Soledad, the latter reflecting the greater acoustic heterogeneity of a larger urban environment. These findings demonstrate that urban typology shapes acoustic patterns in fundamentally different ways, with implications for sustainable land-use planning, public health and the design of differentiated noise-mitigation policies.

Abstract: Background/Objectives: Clinical management of uterine fibroids in the context of infertility is characterised by significant heterogeneity. The aim of our study was to record the participants’ views and clinical practices regarding minimally invasive, fertility-sparing management of fibroids, focusing on fertility outcomes. Methods: Online survey distributed to members of the European Society of Gynecology (ESG), using a questionnaire comprising 27 questions. Questions 1 to 5 related to the participants’ background, while questions 6 to 27 related to the clinical management of fibroids. Results: 98 participants completed the survey, 83% (n=82) of which practice in European countries. 43% (n=42) had completed specialist training in minimally invasive gynecological surgery. For FIGO 0–II fibroids, 94% of participants recommended hysteroscopic removal in infertile patients. 50% may use anti-adhesion agents after hysteroscopic removal of FIGO 0–II fibroids. For FIGO III fibroids, 57% of participants (n=56) believe they have a detrimental impact on fertility while, for FIGO IV fibroids, 51% (n=50) believe the same. 48% of participants (n=49) stated that the distance between the inner portion of an intramural, non-cavity distorting fibroid and the junctional zone does not affect their decision for removal in infertile patients, and 51% (n=50) stated that it does, with variable cut-off values given. The majority of participants favour minimal access approaches over traditional laparotomy; however, the use of robot-assisted laparoscopy was limited. Conclusions: Our results confirm the significant variation in clinical practice associated with fibroid management and underline the need for standardised care, based on high-quality evidence.

Abstract: Rationale: Female sex workers (FSWs) are a key population at high risk of HIV infection, yet uptake of HIV testing remains low due to stigma, limited access, and knowledge gaps. Mobile phone-based education (MPBE) offers a potential strategy to improve awareness and self-testing behaviors in this population. Objectives: This study evaluated the effect of MPBE on HIV and HIV self-testing (HIVST) knowledge, and on HIVST uptake among FSWs in Bayelsa State, Nigeria. Methods: A quasi-experimental design was employed, with 282 FSWs enrolled into intervention (n = 137) and control (n = 145) groups. Baseline and endline assessments measured socio-demographic characteristics, HIV knowledge, HIVST knowledge, and HIVST uptake. The intervention involved structured mobile-based educational messaging over five weeks. Data were analyzed using chi-square, Fisher’s exact test, independent t-tests, and difference-in-difference (DID) analysis, with statistical significance set at P < 0.05. Results: Baseline socio-demographics were largely comparable, although educational level and marital status differed between groups. HIV knowledge improved markedly in the intervention group, with good knowledge increasing from 57.0% to 99.3% (DID = 38.7 percentage points, 95% CI: 0.25–0.53, P < 0.001), compared with minimal change in the control group (61.2% to 64.8%, P = 0.296). HIVST knowledge increased from 1.2% to 97.1% (DID = 84.9 percentage points, 95% CI: 0.79–0.91, P < 0.001). HIVST uptake rose from 2.4% to 74.5% in the intervention group versus 1.2% to 22.1% in the control group (DID = 51.2 percentage points, 95% CI: 0.41–0.61, P < 0.001). Conclusion: MPBE significantly improved HIV and HIVST knowledge and substantially increased HIVST uptake among FSWs. Recommendations: Integrating mobile-based education into HIV prevention programs can enhance early testing, linkage to care, and reach high-risk populations. Long-term strategies should ensure equitable access to mobile technology and evaluate sustainability. Thus, this intervention offers a scalable approach to empower FSWs, reduce undiagnosed HIV infections, and strengthen HIV prevention efforts in resource-limited settings.

Abstract: MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have been associated with the initiation, development, and progression of various cancers, including cervical cancer. Their involvement in cervical cancer is extensively documented, as they influence critical biological pathways, including apoptosis, cell cycle progression, immune evasion, and metastasis. In cervical cancer, deregulated miRNA expression contributes to tumor aggressiveness by interfering with key molecular pathways, many of which are also influenced by high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) oncoproteins. In this review, we highlight key signaling pathways regulated by miRNAs linked to cancer hallmarks, particularly sustained proliferative signaling, which was the most frequently affected pathway across the studies reviewed. Furthermore, the interplay among HPV oncoproteins, dysregulated miRNA expression, and altered signaling pathways drives key oncogenic processes, including uncontrolled proliferation, evasion of apoptosis, and metastasis.

Abstract: Background: Streptococcus pneumoniae is a major cause of mortality from pneumonia and meningitis among children under five in West Africa. A systematic review in 2018 showed that 81% of pneumonia deaths in Africa were caused by pneumococcus. The 13-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV13) was introduced into Ghana’s routine immunisation programme (EPI) in 2012, using the 3+0 schedule. However, few studies have assessed the impact of PCV13 on pneumonia and meningitis outcomes in Ghana and Africa. This study assessed the effectiveness of PCV13 in lowering mortality from clinical pneumonia and meningitis among children under five in the Kassena Nankana districts of Ghana. Methods: This was a retrospective observational study using longitudinal mortality and vaccination data of children younger than 5 years from the Navrongo Health and Demographic Surveillance System (NHDSS) database. The NHDSS monitors the health and demographics of 160,000 individuals across two districts. Secondary data on mortality and vaccinations from 1 January 2007 to 31 December 2017 were extracted. Mortality (non-traumatic) from pneumonia and all-cause mortality in children under five years in the study were assessed through verbal autopsies using the WHO tool. Mortality rates (MR) were calculated as the number of deaths per 1,000 live births. Results: Mortality from pneumonia fell by 50% in both males and females after the introduction of PCV13 vaccination. All-cause mortality for both sexes was reduced by 60%. PCV13 vaccine coverage increased from 85.9% in 2014 to 95.7% by 2017. Furthermore, mortality rates from pneumonia and meningitis combined showed a marked reduction from approximately 15% to 8% in children under five years old. Conclusion: PCV13 has been effective in lowering mortality from clinical pneumonia and meningitis in this study population.

Abstract: The aircraft is often difficult to be stably evaluated due to energy fluctuations in the final approach phase. The traditional single-parameter threshold monitoring method is difficult to capture the complex coupling relationship between dynamic energy and potential energy, and the adaptability is insufficient under variable meteorological disturbances. Therefore, this study proposes a new multi-dimensional prediction and evaluation method, which integrates energy management theory and deep learning technology, aiming to improve the early recognition ability of unstable approach under complex meteorological conditions and optimize the energy regulation ability. Firstly, a new stability evaluation framework is constructed from the perspective of energy. Two core evaluation parameters of ' energy altitude ' and ' balance energy ' are proposed. This method breaks the traditional way of monitoring speed and altitude parameters in isolation. In this paper, a dynamic safety boundary function is designed based on the principle of flight mechanics and civil aviation specifications. The function uses an altitude attenuation mechanism to make the boundary shrink smoothly with the decrease of flight altitude. At the same time, the sliding window statistics and balanced energy triggering mechanism are introduced, which significantly enhances the adaptability of the boundary to various disturbances and effectively overcomes the lag problem of static boundary response. By establishing a multi-dimensional parameter system with energy altitude and balance energy as the core, this study reveals the mechanism of dynamic energy potential energy coupling on approach stability. The hybrid dynamic boundary function realizes the collaborative optimization of physical constraints and data-driven. The research results provide a new theoretical paradigm for solving the evaluation of unstable approach under complex weather, and have important theoretical value and engineering application prospects for ensuring flight safety.

Abstract: This study examines the multifaceted historical transformations of the Hajj pilgrimage from its Prophetic origins in 632 CE to the contemporary era. Employing qualitative historical analysis, systematic document analysis, and comparative methodology, the investigation draws on an extensive corpus of primary sources—including classical Islamic chronicles, medieval geographical accounts, Ottoman administrative records, colonial-era documentation, and contemporary government reports—supplemented by peer-reviewed secondary literature spanning multiple disciplines. The analysis identifies six distinct evolutionary phases: (a) the Prophetic foundation and early expansion (632–661 CE), (b) imperial Islamic administration (661–1517 CE), (c) Ottoman centralization and international challenges (1517–1924 CE), (d) Saudi unification and infrastructure development (1932–2000), (e) digital integration and mass management (2000–2020 CE), and (f) pandemic adaptation and future visioning (2020–Present). The analysis reveals recurring cyclical patterns of innovation and consolidation, demonstrates a strong positive correlation between state capacity and pilgrimage quality, documents how international health imperatives reshaped modern governance, and traces the successful integration of advanced technologies with longstanding religious practices. The findings contribute a comprehensive periodization framework, challenge linear secularization narratives by showing that modernization can strengthen rather than erode religious institutions, and offer practical insights for mass gathering management and religious governance. This research addresses a critical interdisciplinary gap by providing the first comprehensive longitudinal analysis spanning the full fourteen centuries of Islamic pilgrimage history.

Abstract: Peripheral nerve regeneration remains one of the most difficult clinical problems in neuropathy management, and no currently approved treatment reliably restores nerve structure once damage has occurred. Low-frequency pulsed magnetic fields (LFPMFs) have attracted interest primarily as an analgesic modality, culminating in FDA clearance of a magnetic peripheral nerve stimulation (mPNS) device for painful diabetic neuropathy. However, accumulating preclinical data suggest that LFPMFs may act on the biological determinants of nerve repair, not merely on pain transmission. This review organizes those mechanisms chronologically. Early effects center on the endoneurial microvasculature: LFPMF exposure promotes release of FGF-2 and VEGF from endothelial cells, drives arteriolar dilation, and stimulates capillary neogenesis, restoring oxygen delivery to ischemic nerve segments. These vascular changes are especially relevant in diabetic neuropathy and peripheral vascular disease, where endoneurial ischemia drives progressive fiber loss. Later effects involve Schwann cell proliferation, downregulation of neuroinflammatory cytokines, upregulation of BDNF, NGF, and GDNF, and acceleration of axonal sprouting through calcium-dependent intracellular signaling. Notably, the Brown et al. trial of high-intensity mPNS reported a 53% reduction in numbness—a finding that cannot be explained by analgesia alone and raises the possibility that clinical-grade devices may drive structural regeneration. Whether the regenerative mechanisms identified with lower-power devices translate to, or are amplified by, high-intensity mPNS remains an open and important question.

Abstract: Plague remains a significant natural focal zoonotic infection, maintaining epidemiological relevance in the Republic of Kazakhstan. This study provides a comprehensive assessment of epizootological dynamics in natural plague foci during 2020–2025, integrating historical epidemiological data, phenotypic and molecular characterization of Yersinia pestis, and GIS-based spatial analysis. The study utilized long-term surveillance data (1920–2025), epidemiological records of human cases (1926–2003), analysis of 1,526 strains, and whole-genome sequencing of 75 isolates. Epizootological monitoring demonstrated high coverage and stable surveillance capacity, alongside a marked increase in molecular diagnostics. By 2025, expansion of epizootically active areas, a threefold increase in isolated strains, and a substantial rise in PCR-positive detections were observed, indicating intensified pathogen circulation. Despite this, Y. pestis populations remained highly stable, with 94.9% phenotypically typical and 97.5% genotypically typical strains, and no evidence of antimicrobial resistance. Spatial analysis revealed significant clustering (Moran’s I = 1.627; p < 0.001), persistent directional spread, and stable high-risk zones in the North Aral, Betpakdala, Moyynkum, and Kyzylkum foci. No human cases have been recorded since 2003, reflecting effective surveillance. These findings support the integration of spatial modeling and molecular surveillance into risk-oriented plague control strategies.

Abstract: The problem of environmental degradation caused by mining activities is a major and growing challenge to aquaculture practices, especially in remote areas where water quality is a direct control on the health, growth and the overall productivity of the fish. Aquaculture systems are becoming more exposed to heavy metal contamination and physicochemical water quality variations, in places like the mine-based region of Kalumbila, Zambia. The traditional water quality surveillance methods that are currently in use are largely manual and labour intensive and reactive in nature whereby often, the environmental disturbances are detected at a later stage. This kind of delay significantly reduces the success of mitigation measures and increases ecological and economic risks. The aim of the study was to design a robust, artificial intelligence (AI)-enhanced, Internet of Things (IoT)-based system to monitor real-time environmental monitoring and predictive aquaculture control in areas affected by mining, specifically at Musangezhi and Chisola Dams in Zambia. The suggested architecture incorporates a network of IoT sensor nodes to monitor the values of the most important water quality parameters (heavy metal concentration, potential of hydrogen (pH), temperature, dissolved oxygen (DO), and other indicators of critical physicochemical parameters). Sensors were used to perform sensor analysis with machine learning algorithms to aid in predictive monitoring. One of the main innovations of the framework is the introduction of an energy-conscious algorithm, which integrates dynamic sleep scheduling, adaptive sampling, and event-based transmission of data to maximise power use and preserve a timely response to environmental variations. The proposed system was evaluated experimentally through comparison with baseline IoT monitoring settings with metrics such as battery life, frequency of transmissions, rate of event detection, and latency in communication. These findings showed that the proposed framework was much more effective than baseline systems: battery life was extended by 62% (8.2 to 21.8 days), data transmission frequency was reduced by 35.8% without reducing monitoring accuracy and 98.6% of the events of interest were successfully recorded. Even though there was a slight increase in transmission latency, which rose by 0.1 s to 2.0 s, it was still in a reasonable range of values to be used in aquaculture management. The results indicate the proposed AI-enhanced, IoT-driven platform is efficient in balancing energy consumption, reliability of remote communications, and accuracy of monitoring in resource-limited and remote aquaculture systems.

Abstract: Bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) is a widely used technique in clinical and research settings because it provides non-invasive estimates of body composition. However, the quality of a measurement depends on more than the perceived accuracy and precision of numbers produced by a BIA device. This review considers BIA through the lens of metrology, defined as the science of measurement. It highlights several key factors that affect measurement quality. These include accuracy, precision, calibration, standardisation, and uncertainty quantification, all of which are essential for meaningful, clinically feasible BIA measurements. Applying prediction equations generated by the device outside their intended context, poor electrode placement, or uncalibrated devices can introduce bias, whereas biological variability can complicate the interpretation of bioimpedance results. The traditional emphasis on using a reference method for validation is considered along with clinical relevance, which is argued to be an equally important benchmark for evaluating measurement utility. We also present best practices and practical guidelines for improving measurement quality, interpretation, and integration into clinical workflows. By adopting a metrological mindset in clinical practice and treating BIA with the same rigour as other diagnostic tools, its utility in areas such as fluid management, nutrition, and preventive health can be further enhanced. Trustworthy decisions depend not only on the data itself but also on how it is measured, interpreted, and used.

Abstract: Anthropogenic prehistory may be divided into two subsequent phases, the first one from the Last Common Ancestor (LCA) between humans and great apes till the emergence of the genus Homo, and the second phase onwards from then. Until hominins appeared, LCA had lived predominantly on trees, while Homo finally lived only on the ground. The intermediate bimodal transition period was coined by the emergence of systematic bipedal gait, breaking the previously uniform locomotion symmetry. By contrast to versions of the common savannah hypothesis, this paper suggests an alternative fictitious scenario by which migration between seasonally inhabitable arboreal refuges, possibly caused by regional climate change, forced hominins to genetically develop speedy and efficient bipedal locomotion for survival during their temporary but extended regular excursions across open territory. Increasingly upright locomotion resulted in offspring’s early weaning, and in turn in the emergence of childhood with enhanced lethal risks for toddlers. Related selective pressure caused transformations of reproductive traits from gradual sexual selection in apes to undulating sexual conflicts in hominins. Between LCA and Homo, consistent with fossil evidence, the evolutionary bimodal transition phase did not necessarily require advanced mental capabilities, nor specific communication or new forms of social cooperation such as those successively found in Homo. Assumingly, broken spatial and temporal environmental symmetry had induced related symmetry breaking of hominin behaviour, their anatomic structures and reproduction habits.

Abstract: Background/Objectives: Wearable technology is increasingly used to provide biofeedback in physical rehabilitation; however, there is no consensus on which biofeedback parameter is most clinically useful, as most studies evaluate only one arbitrarily selected parameter. This study presents a wearable multimodal biofeedback system integrating multiple parameters selected based on prior literature and evaluates its feasibility and explores potential changes in motor performance in rehabilitation context through a longitudinal post-stroke case study. Methods: The system integrates inertial and electromyographic sensors to monitor centre of mass (CoM-B), joint angle (ANG-B), and muscle activity (EMG-B), delivering real-time sensory cues (through augmented-reality glasses and an elastic vibrotactile band) based on the monitored parameters. Feasibility was assessed in a post-stroke participant (male, 32 years, 29 months post-stroke, left hemiparesis, Fugl–Meyer Lower Extremity Score = 27) across 15 sessions involving stand-to-sit, split-stance weight shifting, and walking tasks. Each task was practiced with all three biofeedback parameters, with five sessions per parameter. Results: The motor performance varied across biofeedback parameters and tasks. CoM-B was associated with favourable trends in motor performance during stand-to-sit, showing improvements in medio-lateral displacement (0.03/session); ANG-B during walking, increasing ankle dorsiflexion (1 deg/session); and EMG-B during weight shifting, increasing tibialis activation (5 µV/session). Conclusions: The findings highlight task-dependent variability in the ability of biofeedback to elicit favourable motor performance, suggesting that the choice of biofeedback parameters may need to be adapted to task demands. The system demonstrated high usability and feasibility, supporting its potential for post-stroke rehabilitation. Further studies are needed in larger populations.

Abstract:

Students and workers spend much of their day in school and office environments, where poor indoor air quality (IAQ) can negatively affect health and comfort. Indoor vegetation is increasingly proposed as a low-cost Nature Based Solution (NBS) to improve IAQ. This study evaluated the effects of phytoremediation on IAQ and indoor microclimate in schools across different regions and educational levels, as well as in office environments, under real-world conditions. Several C₃ plant species (e.g., Chamaedorea, Schefflera, Ficus, Epipremnum, Yucca and Spathiphyllum) were used, with Crassulacean Acid Metabolism (CAM) plants (Sansevieria) included in selected settings. Temperature, relative humidity, CO₂, PM_2.5, and PM₁₀ were continuously monitored using intercalibrated low-cost sensors in absence and presence of vegetation. A comparable plant configuration was implemented in offices to assess effects on volatile organic compounds (VOC). Indoor greenery reduced particulate matters, especially PM₁₀ (18-20%), and improved microclimatic condition by lowering air temperature (1-2 °C) and increasing relative humidity (6-15%). However, CO₂ reductions were limited and context-dependent. In office environments, plant introduction was associated with reduced total VOC concentrations (25-50%) without evidence of biogenic VOC emissions. Overall, indoor vegetation represents a robust, low-cost NBS that can complement conventional ventilation systems in educational and occupational settings.

Abstract: Microplastics, plastic particles smaller than 5 mm in size, have become a contaminant of priority concern in the environment. Microplastic pollution is a significant environmental challenge, highlighting the need for improved water treatment methods. This study investigates the removal of two fractions of polyurethane microplastics ranging in size from smaller than 100 µm, D1, and in range 200 µm - 500 µm, D2, from aqueous synthetic solutions having a concentration of 0.2 g/L, around 175 NTU. In the first stage of the study, tests were performed to identify the optimal doses of efficient reactive agents for microplastic removal, using the classical method: the Jar test. At this stage, attention was directed towards analyzing the variation of turbidity and their removal efficiency in the presence of classical coagulants such as aluminum sulfate, SA, ferrous sulfate, SF, aluminum polychloride, PA; aloe vera flocculant; and activated carbon, CA of the Norit GAC 830 W type. The classical coagulants such as aluminum sulphate, ferrous sulphate have a good efficiency on microplastic removal, which can provide a residual turbidity in range of 6-10 NTU after a retention time of 50 - 60 minutes. In the second stage of the study, the efficiency of smart decantation-filtration system, DFS, was determined. The efficiency of decanter was studied using Response Surface Methodology (RSM) for identification of the mathematical models necessary to evaluate the effects of key process variables: Flow rate (A), Microplastic size (B), and Aluminum sulphate concentration (C) on microplastic removal efficiency. The sedimentation can raise the optimal value of 98.98 % at the outlet of the decanter. Microplastics in D1 and D2 sized synthetic solutions can be removed from contaminated water by decantation and filtration, the efficiency is around maximum permissible limit, MPL, values of 1 NTU.

Abstract: Background: A wellplanned health workforce is essential for achieving highquality, equitable rehabilitation services. In Kuwait, physiotherapy services have expanded over the past decade, yet little is known about longterm workforce trends, gender and nationality imbalances, or the impact of the COVID19 pandemic. This study provides the first comprehensive 14year analysis of physiotherapy workforce dynamics and service utilisation within Kuwait’s Ministry of Health. Methods: A retrospective descriptive study was conducted using Ministry of Health annual physiotherapy workforce and serviceutilisation reports (2011–2024). Data included workforce size, gender, nationality, rank, educational qualifications, and physiotherapy service activity across specialized and general hospitals. Descriptive statistics, linear regression, and interrupted timeseries (ITS) analyses were used to examine longterm trends and COVID19–related changes. and physiotherapy service activity. Results: The physiotherapy workforce increased from 567 in 2011 to 1,078 in 2024, a rise of 90%. Growth was driven mainly by Kuwaiti and non-Kuwaiti females, resulting in a strongly feminised workforce by 2024. In contrast, Kuwaiti male physiotherapists declined by 28.8%. Workforce density increased modestly from 1.85 to 2.19 physiotherapists per 10,000 population, remaining below international benchmarks. Educational qualifications improved, with PhD-trained physiotherapists increasing from 2 to 23. Interrupted time-series analysis showed a significant pandemic-related decline in service utilisation, particularly in Kuwaiti outpatient activity. Significant post-pandemic recovery was observed in selected service streams. Conclusion: Kuwait’s physiotherapy workforce expanded substantially, but workforce density remained below global benchmarks and gender and nationality imbalances persisted. Future planning should strengthen national recruitment, equitable workforce distribution, and digital and tele-physiotherapy models.