Search

Abstract Shaping and controlling electromagnetic fields at the nanoscale is vital for advancing efficient and compact devices used in optical communications, sensing and metrology, as well as for the exploration of fundamental properties of light-matter interaction and optical nonlinearity. Real-time feedback for active control over light can provide a significant advantage in these endeavors, compensating for ever-changing experimental conditions and inherent or accumulated device flaws. Scanning nearfield microscopy, being slow in essence, cannot provide such a real-time feedback that was thus far possible only by scattering-based microscopy. Here, we present active control over nanophotonic near-fields with direct feedback facilitated by real-time near-field imaging. We use far-field wavefront shaping to control nanophotonic patterns in surface waves, demonstrating translation and splitting of near-field focal spots at nanometer-scale precision, active toggling of different near-field angular momenta and correction of patterns damaged by structural defects using feedback enabled by the real-time operation. The ability to simultaneously shape and observe nanophotonic fields can significantly impact various applications such as nanoscale optical manipulation, optical addressing of integrated quantum emitters and near-field adaptive optics.

Abstract Background Cannabis sativa L. is a versatile medicinal plant known for its therapeutic properties, derived from its diverse array of secondary metabolites synthesized primarily in female flower organs. Breeding cannabis is challenging due to its dioecious nature, strict regulatory requirements, and the need for photoperiod control to trigger flowering, coupled with highly dispersible pollen that can easily contaminate nearby female flowers. This study aimed to develop a protocol for in vitro flowering in cannabis, investigate factors affecting in vitro flower production, and generate viable in vitro seeds, potentially offering a method for producing sterile cannabinoids or advancing breeding techniques. Results We show that the life cycle of cannabis can be fully completed in tissue culture; plantlets readily produce inflorescences and viable seeds in vitro. Our findings highlight the superior performance of DKW medium with 2% sucrose in a filtered vessel and emphasize the need for low light intensity during flower induction to optimize production. The improved performance in filtered vessels suggests that plants conduct photosynthesis in vitro, highlighting the need for future investigations into the effects of forced ventilation to refine this system. All tested lines readily developed inflorescences upon induction, with a 100% occurrence rate, including male flowering. We revealed the non-dehiscent trait of in vitro anthers, which is advantageous as it allows for multiple crosses to be conducted in vitro without concerns about cross-contamination. Conclusion The current work developed and optimized an effective protocol for in vitro flowering and seed production in cannabis, potentially providing a platform for sterile cannabinoid production and an efficient tool for breeding programs. This system allows for the full and consistent control of plant growth conditions year-round, potentially offering the reliable production of sterile molecules suitable for pharmacological use. As a breeding strategy, this method overcomes the complex challenges of breeding cannabis, such as the need for large facilities, by enabling the production of hundreds of lines in a small facility. By offering precise control over factors such as plant growth regulators, light intensity, photoperiod, and temperature, this system also serves as a valuable tool for studying flowering aspects in cannabis.

Peanuts (Arachis hypogaea) are of significant agricultural importance due to their versatile uses, providing a valuable source of edible oil and protein-rich food products and serving in industrial applications. Peanuts are susceptible to various diseases, one of them being net syndrome, a poorly understood threat triggered by an undefined causal agent, with symptoms including black coloring and lesions of the peanut pod that affect product quality. In this study, amplicon sequencing was harnessed to explore the fungal and bacterial populations associated with the syndrome. Using this approach, we identified a specific Fusarium sp. amplicon sequence variant that demonstrated a significant correlation with the presence of net syndrome symptoms in both young and mature peanuts. This finding was further validated by Koch's postulates testing, including isolation, cultivation, and application of this strain to corroborate its involvement in net syndrome in peanuts. Our findings contribute to a better understanding of the interactions between peanuts and their microbial communities and to identification of the previously undetermined agent involved in net syndrome and the etiology of the disease.

Objective. To assess changes in reproductive, maternal, newborn, child, and adolescent health (RMNCAH) in Haiti from August 2018 to September 2021, before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods. A retrospective study using surveillance data from the Haitian Unique Health Information System, examining two periods: pre- and peri-COVID-19 pandemic. Health indicators at the national level in the two periods were compared using two-sample t-tests for proportions, and average absolute monthly changes were calculated using variance-weighted regression. Results. There was a statistically significant decline in the proportion of most of the indicators assessed from the pre- to the peri-COVID-19 pandemic period. However, the most affected indicators were the proportions of pregnant women with four antenatal care visits, with five antenatal care visits or more, and those who received a second dose of tetanus vaccine, which decreased by over 4 percentage points during the two periods. Likewise, the proportions of children who received diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis (DTaP), BCG, polio, pentavalent, and rotavirus vaccines also all declined by over 8 percentage points. In contrast, pneumococcal conjugate vaccine increased by over 4 percentage points. A statistically significant decrease was also observed in the average absolute monthly changes of several reproductive and child health indicators assessed. Conclusions. The COVID-19 pandemic may have contributed to the decline observed in several RMNCAH indicators in Haiti. However, the role played by the sociopolitical crisis and control exercised by armed groups over the population in the last three years cannot be ruled out.

Abstract Background Health Data Science (HDS) is a novel interdisciplinary field that integrates biological, clinical, and computational sciences with the aim of analysing clinical and biological data through the utilisation of computational methods. Training healthcare specialists who are knowledgeable in both health and data sciences is highly required, important, and challenging. Therefore, it is essential to analyse students’ learning experiences through artificial intelligence techniques in order to provide both teachers and learners with insights about effective learning strategies and to improve existing HDS course designs. Methods We applied artificial intelligence methods to uncover learning tactics and strategies employed by students in an HDS massive open online course with over 3,000 students enrolled. We also used statistical tests to explore students’ engagement with different resources (such as reading materials and lecture videos) and their level of engagement with various HDS topics. Results We found that students in HDS employed four learning tactics, such as actively connecting new information to their prior knowledge, taking assessments and practising programming to evaluate their understanding, collaborating with their classmates, and repeating information to memorise. Based on the employed tactics, we also found three types of learning strategies, including low engagement (Surface learners), moderate engagement (Strategic learners), and high engagement (Deep learners), which are in line with well-known educational theories. The results indicate that successful students allocate more time to practical topics, such as projects and discussions, make connections among concepts, and employ peer learning. Conclusions We applied artificial intelligence techniques to provide new insights into HDS education. Based on the findings, we provide pedagogical suggestions not only for course designers but also for teachers and learners that have the potential to improve the learning experience of HDS students.

Bedouin poetry has yet to be explored in the context of memory studies, let alone the poetry of the Negev Bedouin. This article, based on a corpus of hundreds of poems documented between the mid-1940s and late-1980s, reviews excerpts from ten political verses composed by Negev Bedouin poets. These verses attest to the power of Bedouin poetry to evoke – at times in just a word or two – a wide range of meanings, a historical depth that may be submersed in a few expressions, and the ways in which these expressions activate memories of the past to communicate something of significance about the present.

AbstractThis study investigated the impact of career preferences on the teaching self-efficacy of preservice accounting teachers. Employing a descriptive census survey, data were collected from 284 final-year preservice accounting teachers at two universities in Ghana. The study utilised an adapted Teacher Sense of Efficacy Scale (TSES) developed by Tschannen–Moran and Hoy, along with demographic scales focusing on preferred career choices. Data analysis was conducted using an independent samples t test. The findings revealed variations in self-efficacy levels among preservice accounting teachers based on their inclination towards or away from a teaching profession. Preservice accounting teachers with a preference for teaching demonstrated higher self-efficacy in areas such as student engagement, instructional strategies, and classroom management. The study suggests that selection criteria for admitting students to accounting education programmes should consider career preferences.

AbstractThis study examined the influence of accounting students’ religiosity on ethics education and anticorruption propensity. It also examined the relationship between ethics education and anticorruption disposition and the mediating role ethics education plays in the relationship between religiosity and incorruptibility of accounting students. A correlational research design was employed to study the population of MBA (Accounting) students in a university in Ghana, out of which a random sample of 447 was selected to participate in the survey. A questionnaire and vignette were used to gather data analysed using Partial Least Squared- Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM) statistics. The study established that religiosity positively influences the internalisation of ethical values through ethics education but has no significant effect on accounting students’ incorruptibility. The internalisation of ethical values through ethics education plays a crucial role, acting as a mediating mechanism, in the relationship between religiosity and incorruptibility of accounting students. It is recommended to integrate religious teachings and entrench ethics education to cultivate moral integrity, individual accountability, and an anticorruption culture among accounting professionals. By recognising the significance of ethical educational intervention, this study expands understanding of the factors influencing anticorruption behaviour among accounting practitioners. Beyond conventional analyses, this study sheds light on the transformative potential of ethical education.

Abstract Background and Aims Given the significance of addressing neonatal mortality in pursuing the 2030 Sustainable Development Goal on child health, research focus on this area is crucial. Despite the persistent high rates of neonatal mortality rate (NMR) in Bangladesh, there remains a notable lack of robust evidence addressing inequalities in NMR in the country. Therefore, this study aims to fill the knowledge gap by comprehensively investigating inequalities in NMR in Bangladesh. Methods The Bangladesh Demographic and Health Survey (BDHS) data from 2000 to 2017 were analyzed. The equity stratifiers used to measure the inequalities were wealth status, mother's education, place of residence, and subnational region. Difference (D) and population attributable fraction (PAF) were absolute measures, whereas population attributable risk (PAR) and ratio (R) were relative measures of inequality. Statistical significance was considered by estimating 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for each estimate. Results A declining trend in NMR was found in Bangladesh, from 50.2 in 2000 to 31.9 deaths per 1000 live births in 2017. This study detected significant wealth‐driven (PAF: −20.6, 95% CI: −24.9, −16.3; PAR: −6.6, 95% CI: −7.9, −5.2), education‐related (PAF: −11.6, 95% CI: −13.4, −9.7; PAR: −3.7, 95% CI: −4.3, −3.1), and regional (PAF: −20.6, 95% CI: −27.0, −14.3; PAR: −6.6, 95% CI: −8.6, −4.6) disparities in NMR in all survey points. We also found a significant urban–rural inequality from 2000 to 2014, except in 2017. Both absolute and relative inequalities in NMR were observed; however, these inequalities decreased over time. Conclusion Significant variations in NMR across subgroups in Bangladesh highlight the need for comprehensive, and targeted interventions. Empowering women through improved access to economic resources and education may help address disparities in NMR in Bangladesh. Future research and policies should focus on developing strategies to address these disparities and promote equitable health outcomes for all newborns.

Abstract Background Sugar alcohols, such as erythritol, are low-impact candidates for attractive toxic sugar baits (ATSB) to kill mosquitoes. To determine whether erythritol has a viable future in ATSB formulations, a suite of assays was conducted to diagnose toxicity mechanisms and starvation effects on mortality in Aedes aegypti (L.) as a model system. Methods We measured general carbohydrate load, glucosidase levels, and free glucose in intoxicated adult mosquitoes to observe whether sugar digestion was impaired. We assayed the effects of sugar combinations with erythritol on larvae and adults. To measure erythritol effects when mosquitoes were not resource-deprived, additional assays manipulated the prior starvation status. Results Up to 50,000 ppm of erythritol in water had no effect on larvae within 72 h, but an ammonia spike indicated diuresis in larvae as early as 4 h (F 8,44 = 22.50, P

Abstract Localized states in two-dimensional (2D) transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDCs) have been the subject of intense study, driven by potential applications in quantum information science. Despite the rapidly growing knowledge surrounding these emitters, their microscopic nature is still not fully understood, limiting their production and application. Motivated by this challenge, and by recent theoretical and experimental evidence showing that nanowrinkles generate strain-localized room-temperature emitters, we demonstrate a method to intentionally induce wrinkles with collections of stressors, showing that long-range wrinkle direction and position are controllable with patterned array design. Nano-photoluminescence (nano-PL) imaging combined with detailed strain modeling based on measured wrinkle topography establishes a correlation between wrinkle properties, particularly shear strain, and localized exciton emission. Beyond the array-induced wrinkles, nano-PL spatial maps further reveal that the strain environment around individual stressors is heterogeneous due to the presence of fine wrinkles that are less deterministic. At cryogenic temperatures, antibunched emission is observed, confirming that the nanocone-induced strain is sufficiently large for the formation of quantum emitters. At 300 K, detailed nanoscale hyperspectral images uncover a wide range of low-energy emission peaks originating from the fine wrinkles, and show that the states can be tightly confined to regions

We consider a decentralized formulation of the active hypothesis testing (AHT) problem, where multiple agents gather noisy observations from the environment with the purpose of identifying the correct hypothesis. At each time step, agents have the option to select a sampling action. These different actions result in observations drawn from various distributions, each associated with a specific hypothesis. The agents collaborate to accomplish the task, where message exchanges between agents are allowed over a rate-limited communications channel. The objective is to devise a multi-agent policy that minimizes the Bayes risk. This risk comprises both the cost of sampling and the joint terminal cost incurred by the agents upon making a hypothesis declaration. Deriving optimal structured policies for AHT problems is generally mathematically intractable, even in the context of a single agent. As a result, recent efforts have turned to deep learning methodologies to address these problems, which have exhibited significant success in single-agent learning scenarios. In this paper, we tackle the multi-agent AHT formulation by introducing a novel algorithm rooted in the framework of deep multi-agent reinforcement learning. This algorithm, named Multi-Agent Reinforcement Learning for AHT (MARLA), operates at each time step by having each agent map its state to an action (sampling rule or stopping rule) using a trained deep neural network with the goal of minimizing the Bayes risk. We present a comprehensive set of experimental results that effectively showcase the agents’ ability to learn collaborative strategies and enhance performance using MARLA. Furthermore, we demonstrate the superiority of MARLA over single-agent learning approaches. Finally, we provide an open-source implementation of the MARLA framework, for the benefit of researchers and developers in related domains.

Cocoa beans contain a variety of nutritional compounds and are rich in biologically active substances. The aim of this study was to utilize cocoa nibs (roasted and unroasted) as the main ingredient in the development of an attractive and convenient product. The produced nibs were analyzed for total phenolics, flavonoids, and antioxidant capacity using DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP methods. The primary phenolic compounds and methylxanthines were analyzed by LC/MS. Subsequently, cereal bars were developed, including a control sample (without nibs) and five formulations containing 41% nibs, using various proportions of roasted and unroasted nibs. The influence of the origin of the beans on the product characteristics was also evaluated. The results showed that the roasting process led to a reduction in epicatechin, caffeine, and caffeic acid. Furthermore, the reduction in total phenolics, flavonoids, and antioxidant capacity after roasting was more pronounced in beans from Bahia compared to those from Espírito Santo. Regarding the cereal bars, the results demonstrated that using cocoa from Bahia, the formulation with a higher proportion of unroasted nibs (F80) significantly increased the total phenolic content (1968.85 mg of gallic acid/100 g) and total flavonoids (39.26 mg of quercetin/100 g). This initial study suggests that the use of cocoa nibs as a functional ingredient in cereal bars may be a viable and advantageous option for creating a product with greater antioxidant potential.

The noninvasive measurement and sensing of vital bio signs, such as respiration and cardiopulmonary parameters, has become an essential part of the evaluation of a patient’s physiological condition. The demand for new technologies that facilitate remote and noninvasive techniques for such measurements continues to grow. While previous research has made strides in the continuous monitoring of vital bio signs using lasers, this paper introduces a novel technique for remote noncontact measurements based on radio frequencies. Unlike laser-based methods, this innovative approach offers the advantage of penetrating through walls and tissues, enabling the measurement of respiration and heart rate. Our method, diverging from traditional radar systems, introduces a unique sensing concept that enables the detection of micro-movements in all directions, including those parallel to the antenna surface. The main goal of this work is to present a novel, simple, and cost-effective measurement tool capable of indicating changes in a subject’s condition. By leveraging the unique properties of radio frequencies, this technique allows for the noninvasive monitoring of vital bio signs without the need for physical contact or invasive procedures. Moreover, the ability to penetrate barriers such as walls and tissues opens new possibilities for remote monitoring in various settings, including home healthcare, hospital environments, and even search and rescue operations. In order to validate the effectiveness of this technique, a series of experiments were conducted using a prototype device. The results demonstrated the feasibility of accurately measuring respiration patterns and heart rate remotely, showcasing the potential for real-time monitoring of a patient’s physiological parameters. Furthermore, the simplicity and low-cost nature of the proposed measurement tool make it accessible to a wide range of users, including healthcare professionals, caregivers, and individuals seeking to monitor their own health.

IntroductionWe sought to determine pre-infection correlates of protection against SARS-CoV-2 post-vaccine inzfections (PVI) acquired during the first Omicron wave in the United States.MethodsSerum and saliva samples from 176 vaccinated adults were collected from October to December of 2021, immediately before the Omicron wave, and assessed for SARS-CoV-2 Spike-specific IgG and IgA binding antibodies (bAb). Sera were also assessed for bAb using commercial assays, and for neutralization activity against several SARS-CoV-2 variants. PVI duration and severity, as well as risk and precautionary behaviors, were assessed by questionnaires.ResultsSerum anti-Spike IgG levels assessed by research assay, neutralization titers against Omicron subvariants, and low home risk scores correlated with protection against PVIs after multivariable regression analysis. Commercial assays did not perform as well as research assay, likely due to their lower dynamic range.DiscussionIn the 32 participants that developed PVI, anti-Spike IgG bAbs correlated with lower disease severity and shorter duration of illness.

Drawing on the reasoned action approach theory, the study aimed to examine the logical pattern involved in the development and manifestation of anti-corruption (ethical) intentions among accounting students. Data were collected from 447 Master of Business Administration (MBA) (Accounting) students in Ghana, using an explanatory correlational design and a simple random sampling technique. The results indicated that the ethical attitude of MBA (Accounting) students is primarily influenced by mimetic, coercive beliefs, and religiosity, with normative belief showing no significant contribution to shaping ethical attitudes. The findings imply that ethical attitude in accounting serves as a pertinent precursor to the anti-corruption intentions of MBA (Accounting) students. The study recommends that institutions should allow accounting students to uphold their religious values, and that efforts to enhance ethical accounting attitudes should be promoted to foster anti-corruption behaviours among accounting students.

Abstract Background Electronic medical record software is common in healthcare settings. However, data privacy and security challenges persist and may impede patients’ willingness to disclose health information to their clinicians. Positive patient-provider communication may foster patient trust and subsequently reduce information nondisclosure. This study sought to characterize information-withholding behaviors among women and evaluate the association between positive patient-provider communication and women’s health information-withholding behavior in the United States. Methods Data were pooled from the 2011 to 2018 Health Information National Trends Survey. We used descriptive statistics, bivariate, and logistic regression analyses to investigate whether positive patient-provider communication significantly impacted health information-withholding behaviors. Data from 7,738 women were analyzed. Results About 10.8% or 1 in 10 women endorsed withholding health information from their providers because of privacy or security concerns about their medical records. After adjusting for the covariates, higher positive patient-provider communication scores were associated with lower odds of withholding information from the provider because of privacy and security concerns (aOR 0.93; 95% CI = 0.90–0.95). Additionally, we found that age, race/ethnicity, educational status, psychological distress, and smoking status significantly predicted women’s willingness to disclose health information. Conclusions Findings suggest that improving positive patient-provider communication quality may reduce women’s privacy and security concerns and encourage them to disclose sensitive medical information.

Abstract Background Multiple high-risk fertility behaviours (MHRFBs), including maternal age 34 years old, a birth order 4+, and birth spacing

Abstract Background Borrelia persica causes tick-borne relapsing fever in Israel, the eastern Mediterranean basin, and Asia. Relapsing fever is associated with severe illness and potentially death in humans and animals. Since B. persica infection has rarely been described in wild animals, the aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of infection with B. persica in wild carnivores in Israel. Methods Spleen and blood clot samples from wild carnivores, which underwent necropsy, were tested for the presence of Borrelia DNA by real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). PCR products were sequenced, and the spirochete loads were quantified using a specific quantitative PCR (qPCR). Results A total of 140 samples from 74 wild carnivores were analyzed for the presence of Borrelia DNA. Six out of the 74 (8.1%) animals were found positive for B. persica by PCR and sequencing of the flagellin B gene, of which 4/74 (5.4%) were also positive by PCR for the glycerophosphodiester phosphodiesterase (glpQ) gene. Positive samples were obtained from three European badgers, and one striped hyena, golden jackal, and red fox each. All B. persica-positive animals were young males (P

Abstract Rehydration is important for athlete performance and recovery. However, it can be challenging to follow appropriate fluid replacement practices due in part to difficulties in tracking fluid intake in real time. The purpose of this study was to determine the accuracy of a smart bottle in measuring fluid intake during exercise. Thirty male American football athletes drank from bottles equipped with a smart cap during outdoor pre-season practices (110 ± 30 min; 29.3 ± 3.0 °C; 75 ± 11% rh). The cap technology included optical sensors, microprocessors, batteries, and wireless connectivity that transmitted fluid volume data to a smartphone application in real-time. Reference measurements of fluid intake from the smart bottle were determined by gravimetry followed by conversion to volume using the density of the fluid consumed. There was no significant mean difference in fluid intake between the smart bottle and reference method (1220 ± 371 ml vs. 1236 ± 389 ml, p = 0.39 paired t test). Bland–Altman 95% limits of agreement between methods was − 212 to 180 ml. The smart bottle provided accurate measurements of fluid intake during exercise in real-world field conditions on a group level and within limits of agreement of − 212 to 180 ml (or approximately ± 15% of overall fluid intake) on an individual level.

Abstract Background Long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs), including hormonal implants and intrauterine devices, are highly effective pregnancy prevention methods. Aside its advantages over other hormonal methods, LARCs are cost-effective, easy to maintain, and have a low risk of non-compliance-related method failure. Besides, LARCs are also relatively safe for all sexually active women in the postpartum or post-abortion period. However, despite its effectiveness, most sexually active women use other short-term methods, such as condoms and contraceptive pills, which are associated with high discontinuation rates. Thus, this study examines the spatial distribution and multilevel factors associated with LARC use among sexually active reproductive-age women in Nigeria. Methods This is a cross-sectional analysis of a population-based study from the 2018 Nigeria Demographic Health Survey (NDHS). The NDHS is a nationally representative survey that collects data on socio-demographic characteristics, sexual and reproductive health-related indicators such as contraceptive use and child & maternal health. A sample of 3,978 sexually active reproductive-age women (15–49 years) in Nigeria was used in the analysis. Frequency distribution and spatial analysis of LARC use were displayed with tables and maps, respectively, while multilevel analysis at a 95% confidence interval (CI) and a p-value of less than 0.05 was used to determine factors associated with LARC use among the sample. Results The spatial distribution of LARC use among sexually active women of reproductive age in Nigeria ranges between 20 and 34.8%. Fifteen of the 36 states (excluding the Federal Capital Territory, FCT) recorded low utilization of LARCs. These states include Adamawa, Lagos, Ogun, Enugu, Anambra, Imo, Abia, Rivers, Kogi, Taraba, Yobe, Gombe, Jigawa, Borno, and Kebbi. Besides, the likelihood of LARC use was lower among participants with a prior history of pregnancy termination [aOR = 0.62; 95%(CI = 0.48–0.80)] compared to their counterparts without pregnancy termination history. Also, participants with no fertility intention had a higher likelihood of using LARCs [aOR = 1.65; 95%(CI = 1.30–2.08)] compared to those with fertility intention. At the community level, women with higher socioeconomic status were less likely to use LARCs [aOR = 0.66; 95%(CI = 0.45–0.97)] compared to women with lower socioeconomic status. Conclusions This study showed a relatively low utilisation of LARC among sexually active reproductive-age women in Nigeria. Notably, this low utilisation is also common in states that could be described as cosmopolitan, indicating a need for closer investigation to understand context-specific factors associated with LARC use. Population-specific family planning education and counselling for this population are important to address common misconceptions about LARCs in particular and modern contraceptive use in general.

IntroductionIntegrated time nanosecond pulse irreversible electroporation (INSPIRE) is a novel tumor ablation modality that employs high voltage, alternating polarity waveforms to induce cell death in a well-defined volume while sparing the underlying tissue. This study aimed to demonstrate the in vivo efficacy of INSPIRE against spontaneous melanoma in standing, awake horses.MethodsA custom applicator and a pulse generation system were utilized in a pilot study to treat horses presenting with spontaneous melanoma. INSPIRE treatments were administered to 32 tumors across 6 horses and an additional 13 tumors were followed to act as untreated controls. Tumors were tracked over a 43–85 day period following a single INSPIRE treatment. Pulse widths of 500ns and 2000ns with voltages between 1000 V and 2000 V were investigated to determine the effect of these variables on treatment outcomes.ResultsTreatments administered at the lowest voltage (1000 V) reduced tumor volumes by 11 to 15%. Higher voltage (2000 V) treatments reduced tumor volumes by 84 to 88% and eliminated 33% and 80% of tumors when 500 ns and 2000 ns pulses were administered, respectively.DiscussionPromising results were achieved without the use of chemotherapeutics, the use of general anesthesia, or the need for surgical resection in regions which are challenging to keep sterile. This novel therapeutic approach has the potential to expand the role of pulsed electric fields in veterinary patients, especially when general anesthesia is contraindicated, and warrants future studies to demonstrate the efficacy of INSPIRE as a solid tumor treatment.

IntroductionRisk perception illustrates the subjective evaluation of individuals concerning the characteristics, severity, and capacity to cope with potential hazards. Risk perception influences attitudes and actions individuals take to protect themselves from future threats. Risk perceptions might change among different stakeholder groups such as society and first responders. Identifying risk perceptions of stakeholders is essential to establish effective protective measures.MethodThis study investigated the commonalities and diversities in risk perception among first responders and the public, within and between seven European and beyond countries. A self-administered questionnaire was used to gather data from both first responders and civilians. They were asked to assess their risk perception level for five categories of risks (Extreme weather-related events, nature-related events, social disruptions, critical services dependencies, and pandemics).ResultsUsing Univariate Analysis of Variance showed disparity concerning both the levels of risk perception between the public and first responders, as well as their relative ranking. For example, concerning extreme weather-related and nature-related events, risk perception levels of the first responders is higher than that of the population in six out of the seven studied countries. In contrast, the population’s risk perception is higher compared to the first responders in six out of the seven countries, concerning critical infrastructure dependencies and pandemics.DiscussionThe relative gaps between the first responders versus the population, within each country, vary considerably. Norway for example presents significant differences between the two internal populations concerning all risks (except for extreme weather), while in Sweden, no significant gaps were identified, concerning all five risks.

Metazoan chromosomes are organized into discrete spatial domains (TADs), believed to contribute to the regulation of transcriptional programs. Despite extensive correlation between domain organization and gene activity, a direct mechanistic link is unclear, with perturbation studies often showing little effect. To follow chromatin architecture changes during development, we used Capture Hi-C to interrogate the domains around key differentially expressed genes during mouse thymocyte maturation, uncovering specific remodeling events. Notably, one TAD boundary was broadened to accommodate RNA polymerase elongation past the border, and subdomains were formed around some activated genes without changes in CTCF binding. The ectopic induction of some genes was sufficient to recapitulate domain formation in embryonic stem cells, providing strong evidence that transcription can directly remodel chromatin structure. These results suggest that transcriptional processes drive complex chromosome folding patterns that can be important in certain genomic contexts.

What do Holocaust survivors do when they refer to cannibalism in their testimonies? This piece argues that they do not merely describe what they have witnessed or heard of, but also ponder the boundaries of humanity. For centuries, Europeans have made references to cannibalism in various depictions for drawing the line between “civilized” and “uncivilized.” In accordance with studies that examine cannibalism in other historical contexts, I argue that in attempting to express a sense of the radical dehumanization in the Nazi camps and convey its horror, some survivors’ accounts reconstruct the appalling reality of the camps as parallels to familiar, older stories of cannibalism that take place in remote, brutal places deprived of civilization.

Abstract Background Communities with diverse ethnicity in high-income countries are disproportionately affected by poor diet-related health outcomes. In England, the United Kingdom’s government’s healthy eating dietary resources are not well accepted and are underutilised among this population. Thus, this study explored perceptions, beliefs, knowledge, and practices around dietary intake among communities with African and South Asian ethnicity residing in Medway, England. Methods This qualitative study generated data from 18 adults aged 18 and above using a semi-structured interview guide. These participants were sampled using purposive and convenience sampling strategies. All the interviews were conducted in English over the telephone, and responses were thematically analysed. Results Six overarching themes were generated from the interview transcripts: eating patterns, social and cultural factors, food preferences and routines, accessibility and availability, health and healthy eating, and perceptions about the United Kingdom government’s healthy eating resources. Conclusion The results of this study indicate that strategies to improve access to healthy foods are required to improve healthy dietary practices among the study population. Such strategies could help address this group’s structural and individual barriers to healthy dietary practices. In addition, developing a culturally responsive eating guide could also enhance the acceptability and utilisation of such resources among communities with ethnic diversity in England.

Organizations should equip human resources and sales managers with the vital information and knowledge needed to recruit and select salespersons with the required qualities to help them achieve improved sales performance. This paper aims to determine a salesperson’s educational qualification, selling experience, and persuasive ability and their effect on the salesperson’s performance at Innoson Motors Manufacturing Company Ltd. The study surveyed 131 company staff to collect the data; only 120 questionnaires were correctly filled and returned. First, the study checked the instrument’s reliability (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.982). Data were then analyzed using a simple linear regression analysis. The findings revealed that salesperson educational qualification has a significant positive effect on salesperson performance (r = 0.944; t = 54.251; F = 2943.209; p < 0.05). Next, salesperson selling experience was found to have a significant positive effect on salesperson performance (r = 0.964; t = 68.905; F = 4747.922; p < 0.05). Finally, salesperson persuasive ability was found to have a significant positive effect on salesperson performance (r = 0.960; t = 64.812; F = 4200.634; p < 0.05). Hence, company managers can use the findings of this paper to understand that employing highly educated, experienced, and persuasive salespersons will lead to improved salesperson performance. AcknowledgmentWe wish to appreciate the good work done by some of the researchers who contributed immensely to the development of the study’s framework and methodology. Among them: Professor Gerald Nebo, Associate Professor Chinedum Obikeze, Dr. John Anetoh and Dr. Wali Kemkamma. We also commend the effort of Mrs. Okolo Jennifer for typing and editing the work. In a similar tone, we wish to thank our respondents for equipping us with the required information that made this study a success.

Abstract We tested whether CRP combined with the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) optimizes the prediction of infectious inflammation in hemodialysis patients. We conducted a retrospective study of 774 (mean age 71.1 ± 12.8 years, 35% women) hemodialysis patients from our institution, hospitalized between 2007 and 2021 for various reasons, with CRP levels available at admission. Infection was defined according to the International Sepsis Definition Conference criteria. An algorithm for the optimal CRP and NLR cutoff points for predicting infection was developed based on a decision tree analysis in the training cohort (n = 620) and then tested in the validation cohort (n = 154). A CRP level above 40 mg/L (obtained as the cutoff point in predicting infections in the training group, using ROC curve analysis) predicted an infection diagnosis with a sensitivity of 75% and a specificity of 76% with an odds ratio (OR) of 9.37 (95% CI: 5.36–16.39), according to a multivariate logistic regression analysis. Whereas, CRP levels above 23 mg/L together with an NLR above 9.7 predicted an infection diagnosis with a sensitivity of 69% and a specificity of 84% with an OR of 25.59 (95% CI: 9.73–67.31). All these results were reproduced in the validation set. Combined use of CRP with NLR may lower the CRP cutoff point in distinguishing between infectious and noninfectious inflammation in hemodialysis patients.

The fall armyworm (FAW) Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera, Noctuidae) has now become an invasive pest of global concern. The pest was first detected in Central and Western Africa in early 2016. Sustainable management options explored by stakeholders during early FAW invasion in Africa included the use of biopesticides and biological control. The current study aimed to compare the susceptibility of FAW larvae to SfMNPV with the assumption that the virus isolated from FAW populations in Africa has higher virulence compared with an isolate from Argentina (SfMNPV-ARG). We also hypothesized that host plant plays a role in SfMNPV efficacy and that cannibalism mediates horizontal and vertical transmission of the virus. This work provides pioneering data on the virulence of the new SfMNPV isolate from Nigeria (SfMNPV-KA1), which proved more effective than its exotic counterpart from Argentina (SfMNPV-ARG). The host plant effect made a significant difference between maize and onion with more FAW death in the larvae fed with contaminated onion 5 days post treatment. The study demonstrates and discusses the effect of cannibalism on virus transmission.

Biological aging can be described as accumulative, prolonged metabolic stress and is the major risk factor for cognitive decline and Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Recently, we identified and described a quinone reductase 2 (QR2) pathway in the brain, in which QR2 acts as a removable memory constraint and metabolic buffer within neurons. QR2 becomes overexpressed with age, and it is possibly a novel contributing factor to age-related metabolic stress and cognitive deficit. We found that, in human cells, genetic removal of QR2 produced a shift in the proteome opposing that found in AD brains while simultaneously reducing oxidative stress. We therefore created highly specific QR2 inhibitors (QR2is) to enable evaluation of chronic QR2 inhibition as a means to reduce biological age–related metabolic stress and cognitive decline. QR2is replicated results obtained by genetic removal of QR2, while local QR2i microinjection improved hippocampal and cortical-dependent learning in rats and mice. Continuous consumption of QR2is in drinking water improved cognition and reduced pathology in the brains of AD-model mice (5xFAD), with a noticeable between-sex effect on treatment duration. These results demonstrate the importance of QR2 activity and pathway function in the healthy and neurodegenerative brain and what we believe to be the great therapeutic potential of QR2is as first-in-class drugs.

?I think that some culturally sensitive mental health information could have been provided?: What Black mothers with preterm infants want for their mental health care: A qualitative study

Abstract Background The purpose of this study is to analyze the long terms trends in public attitudes toward the COVID-19 pandemic and compliance with self-quarantine regulations. Methods Repeated cross-sectional studies looking into data collected from nationally representative samples (N = 2568) of the adult population in Israel at five points in time representing the five morbidity waves of the COVID-19 pandemic. This study examined public trust in Israeli health regulations, levels of public panic, feelings of personal worry, and compliance with health regulations, specifically self-quarantine. Results Public trust in health regulations in January 2022 is at an all-time low (25%) compared to the maximum value of nearly 75% measured in March 2020. While reported worry is steadily reducing, the perception of public panic is increasing. In earlier rounds, public compliance with self-quarantine was reported close to 100%; however, it has dropped to 38% by January 2022 when compensation is not assumed. Regression analysis suggests that trust is a major predictor of compliance with health regulations. Conclusions The “fifth wave” of the COVID-19 pandemic brought about an all-time low in public trust in health regulations. The Israeli public, normally a highly compliant one, is showing signs of crumbling conformity.

We focus on a distributed learning problem in a communication network, consisting of $N$ distributed nodes and a central parameter server (PS). The PS is responsible for performing the computation based on data received from the nodes, which are transmitted over a multiple access channel (MAC). The objective function for this problem is the sum of the local loss functions of the nodes. This problem has gained attention in the field of distributed sensing systems, as well as in the area of federated learning (FL) recently. However, current approaches to solving this problem rely on the assumption that the loss functions are continuously differentiable. In this paper, we first address the case where this assumption does not hold. We develop a novel algorithm called Sub-Gradient descent Multiple Access (SGMA) to solve the learning problem over MAC. SGMA involves each node transmitting an analog shaped waveform of its local subgradient over MAC, and the PS receiving a superposition of the noisy analog signals, resulting in a bandwidth-efficient over-the-air (OTA) computation used to update the learned model. We analyze the performance of SGMA and prove that it has a convergence rate that approaches that of the centralized subgradient algorithm in large networks. Simulation results using real datasets show the effectiveness of SGMA.

We consider the problem of adaptive routing in wireless communication networks. The problem is investigated in the online learning context, where the link states are assumed to be random variables drawn from unknown distributions, independent and identically distributed across links and time. This setting has attracted a growing interest in recent years in cognitive radio networks and adaptive communication systems. In these networks, the devices (or nodes) are cognitive in the sense of learning the link states and updating the transmission parameters, to allow efficient utilization of the network resources. This model contrasts sharply with the vast literature on routing algorithms that assumed complete knowledge about the link state means. The objective is to develop an algorithm that learns online optimal paths to transmit the data so as to maximize the network throughput with low path cost over the network. This study makes significant contributions in terms of algorithm design, theoretical analysis with performance guarantees, and extensive numerical analysis to evaluate the algorithm’s performance. To achieve this goal, we present a novel algorithm, dubbed Online Learning for Shortest-path and Backpressure (OLSB). OLSB optimizes an objective function that balances between the cost and the load over paths. Since the path states are unknown, the design is based on a novel learning strategy that allows efficient adaptive path selections in OLSB. We evaluate the theoretical performance of OLSB by computing the regret, defined as the loss between OLSB and a genie which holds full information on the link state means. We analyze the performance of OLSB rigorously, and show that it achieves a logarithmic regret with time. Finally, extensive simulations are presented to evaluate the performance of OLSB numerically as well. The numerical results support the theoretical findings and demonstrate the high efficiency of OLSB.

Abstract Arabidopsis SENSITIVITY TO RED LIGHT REDUCED 1 (SRR1) delays the transition from vegetative to reproductive development in noninductive conditions. A second-site suppressor screen for novel genes that overcome early flowering of srr1-1 identified a range of suppressor of srr1-1 mutants flowering later than srr1-1 in short photoperiods. Here, we focus on mutants flowering with leaf numbers intermediate between srr1-1 and Col. Ssm67 overcomes srr1-1 early flowering independently of day-length and ambient temperature. Full-genome sequencing and linkage mapping identified a causative SNP in a gene encoding a Haloacid dehalogenase superfamily protein, named HAD-FAMILY REGULATOR OF DEVELOPMENT AND FLOWERING 1 (HDF1). Both, ssm67 and hdf1-1 show increased levels of FLC, indicating that HDF1 is a novel regulator of this floral repressor. HDF1 regulates flowering largely independent of SRR1, as the effect is visible in srr1-1 and in Col, but full activity on FLC may require SRR1. Furthermore, srr1-1 has a delayed leaf initiation rate that is dependent on HDF1, suggesting that SRR1 and HDF1 act together in leaf initiation. Another mutant flowering intermediate between srr1-1 and wt, ssm15, was identified as a new allele of ARABIDOPSIS SUMO PROTEASE 1, previously implicated in the regulation of FLC stability.

Photobacterium damselae subspecies damselae, an abundant, generalist marine pathogen, has been reported in various cetaceans worldwide. We report a bottlenose dolphin in the eastern Mediterranean Sea that was found stranded and dead. The dolphin had a severe case of chronic suppurative pneumonia and splenic lymphoid depletion caused by this pathogen.

Abstract Background The proportion of women with family planning needs increased from 74 to 76% between 2000 and 2019, and this improvement has not transcended to a fertility rate stall or decrease in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). In the face of a continuous increase in the fertility rate in SSA, population experts agreed that the efficient use of reliable family planning methods such as long-acting reversible and permanent contraceptive methods (LARC/PMs) could help reduce the high fertility rate and associated adverse reproductive health outcomes in the region. However, despite the effectiveness of LARC/PMs, its use remains elusive in SSA. Thus, this study examines the prevalence and factors associated with the use of LARC/PMs among women who desire no more children in high-fertility countries in SSA. Methods Secondary datasets from the demographic health surveys conducted in 20 countries in SSA between 2010 and 2019 were included in the study. A total sample size of 46,290 sexually active women of reproductive age who desire no more children and who met the study inclusion criteria was pooled and analysed. Prevalence of LARC/PMs use was displayed using a graph whilst binary logistic regression was used to determine the associated factors, and results were presented as unadjusted odds ratio and adjusted odds ratio with a statistical significance of p

Abstract Recent evidence links synaptic plasticity and mRNA translation, via the eukaryotic elongation factor 2 kinase (eEF2K) and its only known substrate, eEF2. However, the involvement of the eEF2 pathway in cocaine-induced neuroadaptations and cocaine-induced behaviours is not known. Knock-in (KI) mice and shRNA were used to globally and specifically reduce eEF2K expression. Cocaine psychomotor sensitization and conditioned place preference were used to evaluate behavioural outcome. Changes in eEF2 phosphorylation were determined by western blot analyses. No effect was observed on the AMPA/NMDA receptor current ratio in the ventral tegmental area, 24 h after cocaine injection in eEF2K-KI mice compared with WT. However, development and expression of cocaine psychomotor sensitization were decreased in KI mice. Phosphorylated eEF2 was decreased one day after psychomotor sensitization and returned to baseline at seven days in the nucleus accumbens (NAc) of WT mice, but not in eEF2K-KI mice. However, one day following cocaine challenge, phosphorylated eEF2 decreased in WT but not KI mice. Importantly, specific targeting of eEF2K expression by shRNA in the NAc decreased cocaine condition place preference. These results suggest that the eEF2 pathway play a role in cocaine-induced locomotor sensitization and conditioned place preference.

Abstract Background Studies have shown that affordable health insurance can influence healthcare visits and increase the choice of medication uptake in sub-Saharan Africa. However, there is a need to document the influence of health insurance coverage and modern contraceptive use in order to encourage its uptake. Thus, this study examined the influence of health insurance coverage on modern contraceptive use among sexually active women in Nigeria. Methods The secondary dataset utilised in this study were derived from the 2018 Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS). Data analyses were restricted to 24,280 women of reproductive age 15–49 years who were sexually active in the survey dataset. Weighted bivariate and multivariable logistic regression models were used to examine the influence of health insurance coverage on modern contraceptive use while controlling for possible confounders. A Significant level of alpha was determined at p

This study aims to determine 1) the application of the Quantum Learning learning model, 2) the differences in student interests and learning outcomes using the quantum learning model with the conventional model. This research is a quantitative descriptive type of research. The population of this study amounted to 240 students and a sample of 60 students. The experimental class has 30 students and the conventional class also has 30 students. The sampling technique is purposive sampling. Analysis of research data using descriptive statistical analysis, and infrensial analysis. The results showed that the experimental class students' interest in learning tended to be high with 82.97%. Meanwhile, the students' interest in learning in the control class tends to be low, with an average score of 54.85%. And the learning outcomes achieved by students on the subject matter of the atmosphere in the experimental class (taught using the quantum learning model) were in the good category, with an average of 76. The maximum value was 85 obtained and 65 the minimum value. Meanwhile for the control class ( taught by the teacher of the subject concerned using the lecture method) is in the sufficient category, with an average learning achievement of 62.8. The highest value achieved by students is 80 and the lowest value is 50

This paper presents a critical review of key ethical issues raised by the emergence of mental health chatbots. Chatbots use varying degrees of artificial intelligence and are increasingly deployed in many different domains including mental health. The technology may sometimes be beneficial, such as when it promotes access to mental health information and services. Yet, chatbots raise a variety of ethical concerns that are often magnified in people experiencing mental ill-health. These ethical challenges need to be appreciated and addressed throughout the technology pipeline. After identifying and examining four important ethical issues by means of a recognised ethical framework comprised of five key principles, the paper offers recommendations to guide chatbot designers, purveyers, researchers and mental health practitioners in the ethical creation and deployment of chatbots for mental health.

Introduction Access and utilisation of sexual and reproductive health services remain an important component in averting adverse sexual and reproductive health outcomes. However, the unprecedented emergence of the 2019 coronavirus disease (COVID-19) left most of these services disrupted in Africa. Thus, this protocol study seeks to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis of barriers and facilitators to accessing and using sexual and reproductive health services during the COVID-19 pandemic outbreak in Africa.Method and analysis An open electronic database search will be conducted in African journals online, PubMed, CINAHL, EMBASE and PsycINFO to identify potentially eligible studies published between January 2020 and December 2022. Two authors from the research team will screen the title and abstract of the potential studies, and another two authors will independently assess the full articles based on the inclusion or exclusion criteria. Studies will be selected if they examine barriers and facilitators to accessing and using sexual and reproductive health services, including family planning counselling and services, sexually transmitted infections (STIs)/HIV testing, consultation, and treatment, and provision of abortion services during the COVID-19 pandemic outbreak in Africa. The data extracted from the included studies will be analysed using Review Manager (RevMan V.5) and Meta-Analysis software V.3. Each outcome measure will be analysed separately against barriers and facilitators; the dichotomous data will be presented in odd ratios with a 95% CI, while mean and standardised mean differences will be employed to present the continuous data. We envisage that the potential results of this study will identify the barriers and facilitators to family planning counselling and services, STIs/HIV testing, consultation, and treatment, and provision of abortion services during the COVID-19 pandemic outbreak in Africa, which can be used to develop required interventions and policies to curb identified barriers.Ethics and dissemination Ethical approval is not required for a systematic review and meta-analysis. Findings from this study will be disseminated through conferences and peer-reviewed publication.PROSPERO registration number CRD42022373335.

Introduction: Hypospadias is a syndrome of penile maldevelopment. The primary goal of hypospadias surgery is to create a penis with normal appearance and function. Historically, the outcome of hypospadias repair has been assessed based on the need for reoperation due to urethroplasty complications (UC), including fistula formation, dehiscence, meatal stenosis, or development of a urethral stricture. The Glans–Urethral Meatus–Shaft (GMS) score is a standardized tool to predict UC. Analysis of the cosmetic outcomes of hypospadias repair based on the appearance of the reconstructed penis has been validated, and standardized scores have been published. The Hypospadias Objective Penile Evaluation (HOPE) score is a validated questionnaire used to assess postoperative cosmetic outcomes. Although predictors of surgical outcomes and UC have been well documented, predictors of optimal cosmetic outcomes are lacking in the literature. Furthermore, reoperation due to cosmetic considerations has been poorly reported. Objective: To identify predictors of cosmetic outcomes after hypospadias repair and to assess the reoperation rate according to cosmetic considerations. Materials and Methods: This prospective cohort study included 126 boys who underwent primary hypospadias repair. The severity of hypospadias, degree of penile curvature, glans width, preoperative HOPE, and GMS scores were documented. The standard technique for single-stage repairs, the tubularized incised plate urethroplasty, was performed. The primary endpoint was cosmetic outcomes evaluated by the HOPE score questionnaire six months postoperatively. Optimal cosmetic results were defined by HOPE scores ≥ 57. Results: The study population consisted of the following cases: 87 (69%) subcoronal, 32 (25%) shaft, and 7 (6%) proximal hypospadias. Among the study participants, 102 boys (81%) had optimal cosmetic results (HOPE ≥ 57), and 24 boys (19%) had surgeries with suboptimal cosmetic outcomes (HOPE < 57). Ancillary procedures were performed in 21 boys (16%), of which 14 (11%) were solely for cosmetic considerations, and 7 were secondary to UC. Using the Receiver Operating Characteristic analysis of potential predictors of optimal cosmetic outcomes, the preoperative HOPE score had the highest area under the curve (AUC = 0.79; 95% CI 0.69–0.89, p < 0.001). After multivariable analysis, the degree of penile chordee (p = 0.013), glans width (p = 0.003), GMS score (p = 0.007), and preoperative HOPE score (p = 0.002) were significant predictors of cosmetic outcomes. Although meatal location predicted suboptimal cosmetic results in univariate analysis, it was not a factor in multivariable analysis. Conclusions: Over 80% of boys undergoing hypospadias repair achieved optimal cosmetic outcomes. More than 10% of cases underwent ancillary procedures, secondary solely to cosmetic considerations. Predictors of optimal cosmetic outcomes after hypospadias surgery included degree of chordee, glans width, and preoperative HOPE and GMS scores, which were the best predictors of satisfactory cosmetic results. Although meatal location is the main predictor of UC, it was not a predictor for cosmetic outcomes. Factors affecting cosmetic outcomes should be clearly explained to parents during the preoperative consultation.

We report here the feasibility of using LaT _M O _3 -based perovskites (T _M = Co, Cr, Fe, Mn, Ni, i.e., non-Cu 3d transition metals) as electrocatalysts for electrochemical CO _2 reduction reaction (eCO _2 RR). Phase pure LaT _M O _3 perovskites, having T _M -ions in multiple oxidation states for all and O-defects for LaFeO _3 and LaNiO _3 , have been synthesized and tested as electrocatalysts for eCO _2 RR in flow cell type set-up. The above characteristics of the La-T _M -oxides have been found to influence the current densities during eCO _2 RR at the various applied potentials, with favorable effects of the presence of O-defects (as for LaFeO _3 and LaNiO _3 ). Upon eCO _2 RR, both C _1 and C _2 liquid products have been obtained, including ethanol, with a partial current density of −2.66 mA cm ^−2 at −1.2 V vs RHE (for LaFeO _3 ). The types of products and the faradic efficiencies have been found to depend on the T _M -ion present (in the LaT _M O _3 ); in particular, the oxidation state(s), associated O-defect(s) and electronic conductivity. Furthermore, the electrocatalysts have been found to be stable during eCO _2 RR. Overall, the present work highlights the potential of La-T _M -oxide perovskites for usage as stable electrocatalysts for eCO _2 RR, and also provides insights into the proper selection of “T _M ” and reaction conditions for obtaining the desired product(s).

Abstract The study examines the influence of three types of hypercaloric diets on metabolic parameters, inflammatory markers, and oxidative stress in experimental model. Male Wistar rats (n = 40) were randomized in control (C), high‐sucrose (HS), high‐fat (HF), and high‐fat with sucrose (HFHS) for 20 weeks. Nutritional, metabolic, hormonal, and biochemical profiles, as well as histological analysis of adipose and hepatic tissues were performed. Inflammation and oxidative stress were determined. HF model caused obesity and comorbidities as glucose intolerance and arterial hypertension. In relation to hormonal and biochemical parameters, there was no significant difference between the groups. All groups showed increased deposition of fat droplets in the hepatic tissue, even though adipocyte areas were similar. Biomarkers of oxidative stress in serum and adipose tissues were similar among the groups. HF model was effective in triggering associated obesity and comorbidities in male rats, but all hypercaloric diets were unable to promote oxidative stress and inflammation.

BackgroundBronchiectasis is increasingly being recognized to exist in all settings with a high burden of disease seen in First Nations populations. With increasing numbers of pediatric patients with chronic illnesses surviving into adulthood, there is more awareness on examining the transition from pediatric to adult medical care services. We undertook a retrospective medical chart audit to describe what processes, timeframes, and supports were in place for the transition of young people (≥14 years) with bronchiectasis from pediatric to adult services in the Northern Territory (NT), Australia.MethodsParticipants were identified from a larger prospective study of children investigated for bronchiectasis at the Royal Darwin Hospital, NT, from 2007 to 2022. Young people were included if they were aged ≥14 years on October 1, 2022, with a radiological diagnosis of bronchiectasis on high-resolution computed tomography scan. Electronic and paper-based hospital medical records and electronic records from NT government health clinics and, where possible, general practitioner and other medical service attendance were reviewed. We recorded any written evidence of transition planning and hospital engagement from age ≥14 to 20 years.ResultsOne hundred and two participants were included, 53% were males, and most were First Nations people (95%) and lived in a remote location (90.2%). Nine (8.8%) participants had some form of documented evidence of transition planning or discharge from pediatric services. Twenty-six participants had turned 18 years, yet there was no evidence in the medical records of any young person attending an adult respiratory clinic at the Royal Darwin Hospital or being seen by the adult outreach respiratory clinic.ConclusionThis study demonstrates an important gap in the documentation of delivery of care, and the need to develop an evidence-based transition framework for the transition of young people with bronchiectasis from pediatric to adult medical care services in the NT.

BackgroundIn the aftermath of disasters, Emergency Medical Teams (EMTs) are dispatched to help local rescue efforts. Although EMTs are recognized to be a critical component of the global health workforce, concerns have emerged over their functioning and effectiveness. For example, lack of cooperation and coordination between different EMTs has been a longstanding issue, resulting in fragmented disaster management.MethodsTo enhance the provision of EMT’s field teamwork, the Training for Emergency Medical Teams and European Medical Corps (TEAMS) project was established, and later further updated with novel scenarios and exercises (i.e., adapting EMT operations to a sudden disaster; becoming a modular team; reflecting on ethical dilemmas) in the complementary “TEAMS 3.0” project where a more comprehensive training package was developed. The aim of this study was to assess the effectiveness and quality of the TEAMS 3.0 training package in four training programs in Portugal, Germany, Norway, and Turkey. Participants completed a set of questionnaires designed to assess self-efficacy, teamwork, and quality of training.ResultsThe results from all the trainings suggest an improvement for both teams’ self-efficacy and teamwork. The mean score among all the participants (N = 100) for both the self-efficacy scale and teamwork scale was 3.217 (±0.223) prior to training and 3.484 (±0.217) following the training, and 2.512 (±1.313) prior to training and 3.281 (±0.864), respectfully, with statistically significant differences according to Wilcoxon paired samples test (p

Snitz et al. develop a web-based olfactory screening tool for COVID-19, which relies on users smelling household odorants. Based on data from participants in 134 countries, the authors report that olfactory ratings are indicative of COVID-19 status.