Atrial fibrillation (AF), the most common form of cardiac arrhythmia, is associated with significant morbidity, mortality, and financial burden. Traditional diagnostic methods, such as 12-lead electrocardiograms (ECG), have limitations in detecting intermittent AF episodes. Consequently, smart wearables have been introduced to enhance continuous AF monitoring. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate and compare the diagnostic accuracy of ECG smart chest patches and photoplethysmography (PPG)– based smartwatches in AF detection. From august 16–20, 2024, a comprehensive search was conducted across PubMed/MEDLINE, DOAJ, AJOL, and the Cochrane Library. Original studies assessing the performance of ECG smart chest patches and PPG smartwatches in detecting AF were included. Studies were screened based on predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria, and the most relevant were finally included. For ECG smart chest patches and PPG smartwatches groups, random-effects model was used to pool these performance metrics. Statistical analyses were performed using Jamovi 2.3.28, with a significance threshold of p < 0.05. A total of 15 studies were included in the current systematic review and meta-analysis. ECG smart chest patches demonstrated a pooled sensitivity of 96.1% [(95% CI: 91.3–100.8), (I² = 94.59%)], and a pooled specificity of 97.5% [(95% CI: 94.7–100.2), (I² = 79.1%)]. PPG smartwatches showed a pooled sensitivity of 97.4% [(95% CI: 96.5–98.3), (I² = 3.16%)], and a pooled specificity of 96.6% [(95% CI: 94.9–98.3), (I² = 75.94%)]. Comparatively, both ECG smart chest patches and PPG smartwatches exhibited excellent performance in atrial fibrillation detection, with PPG smartwatches showing slightly higher sensitivity and ECG chest patches exhibiting marginally greater specificity. Both ECG smart chest patches and PPG smartwatches are highly effective for detecting atrial fibrillation. However, further advancements are needed to match their accuracy with that of standard diagnostic methods and achieve comprehensive digital cardiac monitoring.

The issue of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is of global significance, affecting both developed and underdeveloped nations. In the context of low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), in Africa and other regions confronted with worsening health inequities such as inadequate healthcare resources and infrastructure, and a rising burden of infectious diseases, the adverse impact of antimicrobial resistance is exacerbated. This narrative review delves into the difficulties encountered in tackling the effects of AMR, focusing specifically on LMICs in Africa, where the overlap of climatic factors, socio-economic disparities, and inequities in access to healthcare intensifies the problem. The themes that emerged from the review include the need for infection prevention and control strategies, the adoption of a One Health approach to combat AMR, and the need for surveillance and monitoring. Several challenges were identified, including organizational and governmental issues, and the absence of leadership commitment. The review also emphasized the need for public and professional education for healthcare professionals and patients to promote and influence behavioral change patterns, a central aspect of AMR issues in Africa. These initiatives should be in tandem with enhanced diagnostic capacity, effective AMR surveillance, and capacity building at all levels of the healthcare system. Sustaining antimicrobial stewardship programs in Africa presents considerable obstacles, ranging from financial constraints to the lack of political will and coordinated efforts. When countries and partners adequately address these challenges by implementing sustainable solutions, LMICs in Africa can mitigate the threat of AMR, safeguard public health, and promote the responsible use of antimicrobials for future generations.

Pain management remains a critical priority in clinical practice. Meanwhile, traditional analgesics, including non-opioid and opioid medications, often pose substantial risks, including adverse effects and potential for addiction. The recent approval of Suzetrigine by the US Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) represents a pivotal advancement in non-opioid analgesia for the treatment of moderate-to-severe acute pain. Suzetrigine, a selective NaV1.8 sodium channel inhibitor, provides effective pain relief by targeting peripheral pain pathways, minimizing the risk of addiction commonly associated with opioids, and has good safety profile according to clinical trials. Given the growing concerns surrounding opioid use, Suzetrigine offers a promising therapeutic alternative in acute pain management, with future research needed to assess its long-term effectiveness in diverse populations.

Marburg virus disease (MVD) is a highly virulent and often fatal disease caused by the Marburg virus, a member of the Filoviridae family, closely related to the Ebola virus. Historically, outbreaks have been sporadic but lethal across various African countries, with high case fatality rates (CFRs). In 2023, significant outbreaks occurred in Tanzania and Equatorial Guinea, with CFRs of 62.5% and 75%, respectively. In 2024, Rwanda faced its first outbreak, starting on September 27, 2024. By November 8, 2024, Rwanda had conducted 7,408 tests, confirming 66 cases, 15 of which were fatal, and 51 recoveries. Although no approved vaccine currently exists for MVD, global health authorities are prioritizing the development of effective vaccines. Drawing on insights from the rapid COVID-19 vaccine development, several promising candidates are under exploration, with the cAd3-MARV showing notable potential. This paper examines the current MVD outbreak in Rwanda and the progress toward developing a long-term vaccine solution.

• Gaps in water, sanitation, and hygiene infrastructure contribute to recurring cholera outbreaks. • Health care weaknesses—supply shortages, staffing, logistics—hinder outbreak response. • Misinformation, stigma, and culture fuel cholera spread and delay interventions. • Shifting from reactive to proactive epidemic preparedness is crucial. • A multi-sectoral approach—community, modeling, resilience—mitigates outbreaks.

Timely diagnosis of PID is crucial for effective management, and leveraging ultrasound can enhance this process. Acute PID presents diagnostic challenges due to its variable symptoms, which can be subtle or nonspecific, and may even be asymptomatic. These factors often lead to delays in diagnosis and treatment, contributing to inflammatory complications in the upper genital tract. While laparoscopy offers a more precise diagnosis, its limited availability and inability to detect all forms of PID make it less practical for timely management. However, Transvaginal sonography (TVS) can be a valuable tool in this regard, offering a non-invasive and accessible method for evaluating pelvic inflammatory changes. By utilizing ultrasound alongside clinical assessment, healthcare providers can improve the timeliness of PID diagnosis, leading to more effective management and reduced risk of complications.