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Carnivore guilds are charismatic and have vital and irreplaceable roles in their native ecosystems, yet many of these species are threatened and remain understudied. Borneo is a biodiversity hotspot that hosts a rich diversity of endemic wildlife but is threatened by deforestation and habitat loss. Using cameras placed by the Smithsonian Institution in Sabah, Borneo, we assessed the detection rates and diel activity patterns of the native felid species. Across 51 camera trap sites between 2016 and 2019, felids were detected 55 times across a combined 9958 trap nights, including 20 independent detection events for Sunda leopard cats, 15 for Sunda clouded leopards, 12 for Borneo bay cats, and 5 for marbled cats, with no detections of flat‐headed cats. Collectively, this demonstrates the challenge of sampling cryptic species that have declined due to habitat loss and conflict with humans. Despite this, we show that Borneo bay cats and marbled cats exhibited different diel activity patterns than Sunda cloud leopards, suggesting the smaller species use temporal displacement to avoid competition and predation. Sunda leopard cats exhibited broadly similar activity patterns to Sunda clouded leopard, potentially because the two species typically occupy different dietary and habitat niches. These results demonstrate the importance of devoting future research towards monitoring these species and understanding the mechanisms by which they co‐exist. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Currently, different guidelines recommend using different methods to determine whether deduplication is necessary when determining the detection rates of multidrug-resistant organisms (MDROs). However, few studies have investigated the effect of deduplication on MDRO monitoring data. In this study, we aimed to investigate the influence of deduplication on the detection rates of MDROs in different specimens to assess its impact on infection surveillance outcomes. Methods Samples were collected from hospitalized patients admitted between January 2022 and December 2022; four types of specimens were collected from key monitored MDROs, including sputum samples, urine samples, blood samples, and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) samples. In this study, we compared and analysed the detection rates of carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae (CRKP), carbapenem-resistant Escherichia coli (CRECO), carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii (CRAB), carbapenem-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa (CRPA), and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) under two conditions: with and without deduplication. Results When all specimens were included, the detection rates of CRKP, CRAB, CRPA, and MRSA without deduplication (33.52%, 77.24%, 44.56%, and 56.58%, respectively) were significantly greater than those with deduplication (24.78%, 66.25%, 36.24%, and 50.83%, respectively) (all P

Background: Currently, different guidelines recommend using different methods to determine whether deduplication is necessary when determining the detection rates of multidrug-resistant organisms (MDROs). However, few studies have investigated the effect of deduplication on MDRO monitoring data. In this study, we aimed to investigate the influence of deduplication on the detection rates of MDROs in different specimens to assess its impact on infection surveillance outcomes. Methods: Samples were collected from hospitalized patients admitted between January 2022 and December 2022; four types of specimens were collected from key monitored MDROs, including sputum samples, urine samples, blood samples, and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) samples. In this study, we compared and analysed the detection rates of carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae (CRKP), carbapenem-resistant Escherichia coli (CRECO), carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii (CRAB), carbapenem-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa (CRPA), and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) under two conditions: with and without deduplication. Results: When all specimens were included, the detection rates of CRKP, CRAB, CRPA, and MRSA without deduplication (33.52%, 77.24%, 44.56%, and 56.58%, respectively) were significantly greater than those with deduplication (24.78%, 66.25%, 36.24%, and 50.83%, respectively) (all P < 0.05). The detection rates in sputum samples were significantly different between samples without duplication (28.39%, 76.19%, 46.95%, and 70.43%) and those with deduplication (19.99%, 63.00%, 38.05%, and 64.50%) (all P < 0.05). When deduplication was not performed, the rate of detection of CRKP in urine samples reached 30.05%, surpassing the rate observed with deduplication (21.56%) (P < 0.05). In BALF specimens, the detection rates of CRKP and CRPA without deduplication (39.78% and 53.23%, respectively) were greater than those with deduplication (31.62% and 42.20%, respectively) (P < 0.05). In blood samples, deduplication did not have a significant impact on the detection rates of MDROs. Conclusion: Deduplication had a significant effect on the detection rates of MDROs in sputum, urine, and BALF samples. Based on these data, we call for the Infection Prevention and Control Organization to align its analysis rules with those of the Bacterial Resistance Surveillance Organization when monitoring MDRO detection rates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Carnivore guilds are charismatic and have vital and irreplaceable roles in their native ecosystems, yet many of these species are threatened and remain understudied. Borneo is a biodiversity hotspot that hosts a rich diversity of endemic wildlife but is threatened by deforestation and habitat loss. Using cameras placed by the Smithsonian Institution in Sabah, Borneo, we assessed the detection rates and diel activity patterns of the native felid species. Across 51 camera trap sites between 2016 and 2019, felids were detected 55 times across a combined 9958 trap nights, including 20 independent detection events for Sunda leopard cats, 15 for Sunda clouded leopards, 12 for Borneo bay cats, and 5 for marbled cats, with no detections of flat‐headed cats. Collectively, this demonstrates the challenge of sampling cryptic species that have declined due to habitat loss and conflict with humans. Despite this, we show that Borneo bay cats and marbled cats exhibited different diel activity patterns than Sunda cloud leopards, suggesting the smaller species use temporal displacement to avoid competition and predation. Sunda leopard cats exhibited broadly similar activity patterns to Sunda clouded leopard, potentially because the two species typically occupy different dietary and habitat niches. These results demonstrate the importance of devoting future research towards monitoring these species and understanding the mechanisms by which they co‐exist.

Abstract Background Few studies have examined the prevalence of mental, neurological and substance use (MNS) conditions, case detection and treatment in primary healthcare in rural settings in Africa. We assessed prevalence and case detection at primary healthcare facilities in low-resource rural settings in Ghana. Methods A cross-sectional survey was conducted at the health facility level in three demonstration districts situated in Bongo (Upper East Region), Asunafo North (Ahafo Region) and Anloga (Volta Region) in Ghana. The study participants were resident adult (> 17 years) out-patients seeking healthcare at primary care facilities in each of the three demonstration districts. Data were collected on five priority MNS conditions: depression, psychosis, suicidal behaviour, epilepsy and alcohol use disorders. Results Nine hundred and nine (909) people participated in the survey. The prevalence of probable depression was 15.6% (142/909), probable psychotic symptoms was 12% (109/909), probable suicidal behaviour was 11.8% (107/909), probable epilepsy was 13.1% (119/909) and probable alcohol use disorders was 7.8% (71/909). The proportion of missed detection for cases of depression, self-reported psychotic symptoms, epilepsy and alcohol use disorders (AUD) ranged from 94.4 to 99.2%, and was similar across study districts. Depression was associated with self-reported psychotic symptoms (RR: 1.68; 95% CI: 1.12–1.54). For self-reported psychotic symptoms, a reduced risk was noted for being married (RR: 0.62; 95% CI: 0.39–0.98) and having a tertiary level education (RR: 0.12; 95% CI: 0.02–0.84). Increased risk of suicidal behaviour was observed for those attending a health facility in Asunafo (RR: 2.31; 95% CI: 1.27–4.19) and Anloga districts (RR: 3.32; 95% CI: 1.93–5.71). Age group of 35 to 44 years (RR: 0.43; 95% CI: 0.20–0.90) was associated with reduced risk of epilepsy. Being female (RR: 0.19; 95% CI: 0.12–0.31) and having a tertiary education (RR: 0.27; 95% CI: 0.08–0.92) were associated with reduced risk of AUD. Conclusions Our study found a relatively high prevalence of probable MNS conditions, and very low detection and treatment rates in rural primary care settings in Ghana. There is a need to improve the capacity of primary care health workers to detect and manage MNS conditions.

Background: Few studies have examined the prevalence of mental, neurological and substance use (MNS) conditions, case detection and treatment in primary healthcare in rural settings in Africa. We assessed prevalence and case detection at primary healthcare facilities in low-resource rural settings in Ghana. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted at the health facility level in three demonstration districts situated in Bongo (Upper East Region), Asunafo North (Ahafo Region) and Anloga (Volta Region) in Ghana. The study participants were resident adult (> 17 years) out-patients seeking healthcare at primary care facilities in each of the three demonstration districts. Data were collected on five priority MNS conditions: depression, psychosis, suicidal behaviour, epilepsy and alcohol use disorders. Results: Nine hundred and nine (909) people participated in the survey. The prevalence of probable depression was 15.6% (142/909), probable psychotic symptoms was 12% (109/909), probable suicidal behaviour was 11.8% (107/909), probable epilepsy was 13.1% (119/909) and probable alcohol use disorders was 7.8% (71/909). The proportion of missed detection for cases of depression, self-reported psychotic symptoms, epilepsy and alcohol use disorders (AUD) ranged from 94.4 to 99.2%, and was similar across study districts. Depression was associated with self-reported psychotic symptoms (RR: 1.68; 95% CI: 1.12–1.54). For self-reported psychotic symptoms, a reduced risk was noted for being married (RR: 0.62; 95% CI: 0.39–0.98) and having a tertiary level education (RR: 0.12; 95% CI: 0.02–0.84). Increased risk of suicidal behaviour was observed for those attending a health facility in Asunafo (RR: 2.31; 95% CI: 1.27–4.19) and Anloga districts (RR: 3.32; 95% CI: 1.93–5.71). Age group of 35 to 44 years (RR: 0.43; 95% CI: 0.20–0.90) was associated with reduced risk of epilepsy. Being female (RR: 0.19; 95% CI: 0.12–0.31) and having a tertiary education (RR: 0.27; 95% CI: 0.08–0.92) were associated with reduced risk of AUD. Conclusions: Our study found a relatively high prevalence of probable MNS conditions, and very low detection and treatment rates in rural primary care settings in Ghana. There is a need to improve the capacity of primary care health workers to detect and manage MNS conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accurate surveys and monitoring are required to guide the conservation and management of threatened species. Some fauna species are cryptic or difficult to observe because they are nocturnal, mimic other species, conceal themselves, or can be incredibly hard to survey. Emergence and activity of these species may be related to complex environmental cues including weather and atmospheric conditions. The conservation status of New Zealand's long-tailed bat (Chalinolobus tuberculatus) is Threatened-Nationally Critical. Occurrence and activity of long-tailed bats is commonly monitored with acoustic bat detectors. However, even in locations where long-tailed bats are known to be present, they may only be detected on a subset of nights meaning that detection with acoustic detectors is imperfect. We analysed long-tailed bat detection data collected in Kinleith Forest, central North Island, New Zealand in 2006 and 2007 using zero-inflated generalised linear (mixed) effect models. We found relationships between bat detection and several environmental variables. Results suggest that bat surveys would be most effective at detecting bats when undertaken one to four hours after sunset, on nights when the temperature at sunset is above 8°C, and preferably when the temperature stays in the 8 and 17°C range during the night. Higher humidity and a light breeze may also be a desirable condition for monitoring. A night that is similar to, or slightly warmer, than recent nights may be favourable. Caution should be taken extrapolating these results to elsewhere because bats in other regions may respond differently to temperatures out of necessity. High site-specific variation in bat counts at higher temperatures and humidity occurred with zero activity often recorded. Therefore, we caution against assuming bats are absent because they have not been detected by surveys undertaken during higher temperatures and humidity conditions unless surveys have been run for multiple nights in suitable conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper investigates stealthy attacks on state estimation within linear time-invariant systems, focusing on scenarios where transmitted measurements through wireless networks are vulnerable to interception and manipulation by attackers. Their goal is to maximize estimation errors without triggering anomaly detectors. Moving beyond conventional linear attacks, this study introduces a comprehensive attack model that embraces nonlinear mappings. The evaluation of stealthiness hinges on several factors: the whiteness of residuals, the detector's detection rate, and the expectation of the detection index. Optimal attacks for both zero and nonzero detection rates are derived, incorporating various stealthiness constraints. As a general case, the optimal attack with any specified upper bound of detection rate can be designed, revealing that such attacks are predominantly nonlinear. Additionally, the paper explores the discontinuity of nonlinear mappings in these attacks, enhancing understanding of their complexity and implications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives and Design: The MELFO (MELanoma FOllow-up) study is an international phase III randomized controlled trial comparing an experimental low-intensity schedule against current national guidelines. Background: Evidence-based guidelines for the follow-up of sentinel node–negative melanoma patients are lacking. Methods: Overall, 388 adult patients diagnosed with sentinel node–negative primary melanoma patients were randomized in cancer centers in the Netherlands and United Kingdom between 2006 and 2016. The conventional schedule group (control: n=196) was reviewed as per current national guidelines. The experimental schedule group (n=192) was reviewed in a reduced-frequency schedule. Quality of life was the primary outcome measurement. Detection rates and survival outcomes were recorded. Patient satisfaction rates and compliance with allocated schedules were compared. Results: At 5 years, both arms expressed high satisfaction with their regimens (>97%). This study found no significant group effect on any patient-reported outcome measure scores between the follow-up protocols. In total, 75/388 (19.4%) patients recurred, with no difference in incidence found between the 2 arms (hazard ratio=0.87, 95% confidence interval: 0.54–1.39, P =0.57). Self-examination was the method of detection for 25 experimental patients and 32 control patients (75.8% vs. 76.2%; P =0.41). This study found no difference in any survival outcomes between the 2 study arms (disease-free survival: hazard ratio=1.00, 95% confidence interval: 0.49–2.07, P =0.99). Conclusions: A reduced-intensity, American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) stage-adjusted follow-up schedule for sentinel node–negative melanoma patients is a safe strategy, and patient self-examination is effective for recurrence detection with no evidence of diagnostic delay. Patients' acceptance is very high. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective：This study aims to investigate the detection rate and influencing factors of thyroid nodules（TN）among healthy teachers. Methods：The physical examination items（including gender，age，occupation，height，weight，etc.），laboratory examination（fasting blood glucose，blood lipid，liver function，uric acid，13C breath test，etc.）and thyroid color ultrasound examination of health teachers in Sir Run Run Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing Medical University from October 2018 to June 2021 were retrospectively analyzed. Logistic regression was used to analyze the influencing factors of TN. Results：①Thyroid nodules were found in 2 539 of 6 096 patients，with a total detection rate of 41.65%，including 38.20% male and 43.03% female. There were 1 340 single nodules（21.98%）and 1 199 multiple nodules（19.67%）. For TN classification according to TI⁃RADS，grade 3 was the most，accounting for 22.74%. The older the age，the higher the detection rate was，and there were significant differences in the detection rate of TN among different age groups（P < 0.05）. In addition，thyroid nodules were detected in bilateral lobe（17.27%）> right lobe（13.27%）> left lobe（10.89%）> thyroid isthmus（0.21%）. ② The detection rate of female teachers in the middle school group was the highest （49.44%），and there were significant differences in the detection rate of different types of teachers in the three age groups of < 30 years old，30~39 years old and ≥60 years old（P < 0.05）；③Compared with the non ⁃ TN group，the incidence of hypertension，abnormal fasting glucose，hyperlipidemia，overweight and obesity was higher in the TN group，and the differences were statistically significant between two groups（P < 0.05）. ④Logistic multifactor regression analysis showed that female was an independent risk factor for TN （OR=1.913，P < 0.05），and teachers aged 40⁃49，50⁃59 and ≥60 had a higher risk of TN than those aged less than 30（OR=1.402， 2.923，4.637，All P < 0.05），and compared with preschool education group，college teachers had a lower risk of TN（OR=0.718，P < 0.05）. Conclusion：The detection rate of TN among teachers who underwent physical examination is high，but the malignancy is not high. Overweight，obesity and“three high”are closely related to TN. Female，age and middle school teachers are risk factors for TN，so comprehensive attention should be paid to the above indicators to improve health management awareness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hunting is an important threat to tropical wildlife, yet many people are dependent on forest fauna for protein provisioning. We analyzed abundances of terrestrial mammal and bird species around four indigenous villages in the south of Suriname, using camera trap data and the Royle–Nichols abundance model. We hypothesized that hunting pressure increases with decreasing distance to a village and with increasing village size (expressed as cropland area). We detected 24 animal species in all villages combined, including several rare species. For 11 of the 24 species, we were able to examine if and how distance to a village and village size related to local abundances and found a positive effect of distance to village on local abundances in five species, and a negative effect of village size in one species. Because villages, and thus hunting, affect local abundances of terrestrial bird and mammal species in our study, we recommend monitoring forest fauna in areas where people are highly dependent on animals for food provisioning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Hunting is an important threat to tropical wildlife, yet many people are dependent on forest fauna for protein provisioning. We analyzed abundances of terrestrial mammal and bird species around four indigenous villages in the south of Suriname, using camera trap data and the Royle–Nichols abundance model. We hypothesized that hunting pressure increases with decreasing distance to a village and with increasing village size (expressed as cropland area). We detected 24 animal species in all villages combined, including several rare species. For 11 of the 24 species, we were able to examine if and how distance to a village and village size related to local abundances and found a positive effect of distance to village on local abundances in five species, and a negative effect of village size in one species. Because villages, and thus hunting, affect local abundances of terrestrial bird and mammal species in our study, we recommend monitoring forest fauna in areas where people are highly dependent on animals for food provisioning.

Since periodically repositioning camera traps may allow camera traps to sample a wider range of habitat features, we hypothesised that repositioned Reconyx camera traps would generally perform better than stationary Reconyx camera traps. Camera trapping We used 51 camera traps consisting of 17 Swift 3C wide-angle cameras (Outdoor Cameras Australia, Toowoomba, Qld, Australia), and 34 Reconyx cameras (17 of each model: PC900 and HC600; RECONYX, LLP, Holmen, WI, USA). Animal detection rates of three camera trap groups Observed animal detection rates of three camera trap groups: Stationary Reconyx (PC900/HC600), and periodically repositioned paired Reconyx (PC900/HC600) and Swift 3C wide-angle camera traps ( I n i = 17 each). [Extracted from the article]

Previous studies that have addressed the growing mental health problems among sexual minorities in mainland China, but failed to inform mental health programs and public health policies with consistent detection results. To obtain robust results on aggregate detection rates and moderators of these problems, we performed a meta-analysis of the related Chinese and English literature published before 2022. Ultimately, 305 eligible studies (n depression  = 127, n anxiety  = 71, n suicide ideation  = 55, n suicide plan  = 13, n suicide attempt  = 39) were pooled in the analysis. The results revealed "Money boys" and people living with human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS) had higher detection rates than general men who have sex with men. Depression was more prevalent in gays than lesbians, and the latter had a higher detection rate of suicide. Detection rates of anxiety and depression among sexual minorities in China were moderated by detection time, measurement tools, and their detection thresholds. Suggested future priorities include developing more targeted measurement tools that consider the living conditions and psychological characteristics of local sexual minorities, enhancing mental health programs for sexual minorities, and devising more practical and effective interventions to prevent and reduce their mental health problems.

• Mycoplasma pneumoniae (MP) in respiratory tract infections was the most predominant. • 27.9% of the children had multiple pathogens codetections, this mostly included MP. • MP should be included in differential diagnosis in respiratory tract infections. The epidemiology of Mycoplasma pneumoniae (MP) and local dominant etiologies of pathogens that cause respiratory tract infections (RTIs) among central China children (≤14 years old) hospitalized are poorly understood. A total of 10,429 specimens were analyzed, and IgM antibodies against 9 respiratory pathogens including MP were detected using indirect immunofluorescence assay from serum. It showed that 59.3% of the enrolled children were positive for at least 1 pathogen; highest detection rates included those between 3 and <6 years of age (70.4%), female (63.2%), and who were hospitalized in 2014 (80.9%). The most predominant pathogen was MP (45.6%), followed by Parainfluenza viruses (PIVs) (22.6%) and influenza B viruses (IFVB) (14.7%). Coinfection was observed in 2,907 specimens (27.9%); the coinfection combination containing MP and PIVs had the highest detection rate of 15%, followed by MP and IFVB as well as IFVB and PIVs. MP was the most commonly detected bacteria among hospitalized children, which should be included in the differential diagnosis for hospitalized children with RTI. These findings will contribute to the effective prevention and therapeutic approaches of pathogens among local children suffering from RTI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The presence of bat species is commonly determined by placing acoustic bat detectors that record bat echolocation calls in the habitat they are likely to use. Detection rates are affected by variables including type of detection unit used. We compared detection rates of long-tailed bat (Chalinolobus tuberculatus) echolocation calls between two types of automated bat detectors: Wildlife Acoustics SMZC Zero Crossing Bat Recorders (ZC), and Frequency Compression Automated Bat Monitoring units (FC) produced by New Zealand's Department of Conservation. Units were placed in locations where bats were known to be present, but not all detected bats. The median number of bat passes recorded by FC units over 10 nights was 20 compared with a median of 3 bat passes for ZC units. ZC units also detected bats over significantly fewer nights than FC units. These results suggest FC units are more sensitive and therefore better to use where long-tailed bats are expected to be at low abundance or only present infrequently. Because of inconsistencies in detection rates, we recommend the use of only one model of the detector within a monitoring project. Our data also suggests that surveys should take place over long periods to maximise likelihood of detecting bats, if present. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Adenoma detection rate (ADR) is correlated with the risk of interval colorectal cancer and is considered as a quality benchmark for colonoscopy. Serrated polyp detection rate (SPDR) might be a more stringent indicator of quality in polyp detection.Aims: To evaluate in a 2-year monocentric observational study patient-dependent and endoscopist-dependent factors influencing ADR and SPDR in daily practice.Methods: We determined ADR and SPDR. We collected patient-dependent factors and endoscopist-dependent factors. Links between these data and detection rates were assessed by uni- and multivariate analysis.Results: A total of 11682 colonoscopies were performed (female: 54.3%; male: 45.7%; median age 58) by 30 endoscopists (female: 9; male: 21). ADR and SPDR were 29.2% and 8%, respectively. In multivariate analysis, ADR was associated with patient-dependent factors: age (OR 1.044, CI 95% 1.040-1.048), male gender (OR 1.7, CI 95% 1.56-1.85), personal history of polyp/cancer (OR 1.53, CI 95% 1.3-1.9), and positive fecal immunochemical test (OR 2.47, CI 95% 2.0-3.1). In multivariate analysis, SPDR was associated with withdrawal time (OR 1.25, CI 95% 1.17-1.32), low volume activity (OR 1.3, CI 95% 1.1-1.52), and personal history of polyp/cancer (OR 1.61, CI 95% 1.15-2.25).Conclusion: In this large series of routine colonoscopies, we found that ADR was mainly driven by patient-dependent conditions, i.e., age, male gender, colonoscopy indication for positive FIT, and a personal history of polyp or cancer. In contrast, SPDR was mainly related to endoscopist-dependent factor, i.e., withdrawal time and low volume activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite a growing body of evidence worldwide that bats are affected by roads, there has been little research into the effects of traffic volume on bat activity. In New Zealand, there is considerable uncertainty over whether, or to what extent, roads affect New Zealand's endemic bat populations, and this has resulted in uncertainty during the planning and consent phases of road development projects. This research investigated whether Chalinolobus tuberculatus (long-tailed bat) activity correlates with night-time traffic volume on New Zealand's highways. Bat activity was monitored at 57 traffic monitoring sites throughout New Zealand using pairs of bat detectors, with one placed beside the highway (highway) and one placed ≥ 200 metres from the highway (distant). Generalised linear mixed effects models were used to investigate the relationship between bat detections, position in relation to the highway, and various measures of traffic volume. The model that best explained the variation in bat detections was the interaction effect between bat detector position (highway, distant) and night-time traffic volume (volume). Outputs from this model show a negative relationship between bat activity and night-time traffic volume for highway bat detector units, while distant bat detector units had no discernible relationship with night-time traffic volume. These results indicate that night-time traffic volume affects the use of roads by bats, i.e. when overnight traffic increased, the probability of detecting bats decreased. Whether or to what extent this will affect the long-term viability of New Zealand's C. tuberculatus populations is a high priority for further investigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work investigates the application of zero-frequency resonator (ZFR) for detecting systolic peaks of photoplethysmogram (PPG) signals. Based on the authors’ studies, they propose an automated noise-robust method, which consists of the central difference operation, the ZFR, the mean subtraction and averaging, the peak determination, and the peak rejection/acceptance rule. The method is evaluated using different kinds of PPG signals taken from the standard MIT-BIH polysomnographic database and Complex Systems Laboratory database and the recorded PPG signals at their Biomedical System Lab. The method achieves an average sensitivity (Se) of 99.95%, positive predictivity (Pp) of 99.89%, and overall accuracy (OA) of 99.84% on a total number of 116,673 true peaks. Evaluation results further demonstrate the robustness of the ZFR-based method for noisy PPG signals with a signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) ranging from 30 to 5 dB. The method achieves an average Se = 99.76%, Pp = 99.84%, and OA = 99.60% for noisy PPG signals with a SNR of 5 dB. Various results show that the method yields better detection rates for both noise-free and noisy PPG signals. The method is simple and reliable as compared with the complexity of signal processing techniques and detection performance of the existing detection methods.

Background: We assessed whether combining the conventional culture and implant sonicate fluid culture (SFC) methods increased the diagnostic accuracy of orthopedic implant-associated infection (OIAI).Methods: Consecutive patients (n = 66) undergoing implant removal (OIAI, 17; non-OIAI, 49) were evaluated prospectively. We analyzed 493 samples (39 preoperative joint aspirates, 243 peri-implant tissue specimens, 124 implant sonication, 67 controls, and 20 water bath samples). OIAI was preoperatively evaluated based on clinical evidence of infection or aspirate culture (AC). Conventional methods required positive results in either preoperative ACs or intraoperative tissue cultures (TCs), whereas the combination method required at least 1 positive culture among 3 sources (AC, TC, or SFC). The application of SFC and the detection rate, sensitivity, and specificity of the diagnostic methods were assessed.Results: No controls or water bath samples harbored bacteria. Three patients (18%) were detected by SFC only and Peptostreptococcus and Corynebacterium species were isolated by SFC only. The OIAI detection rate attributable to SFC was significantly higher than that of TC (61% vs 36%; P = .02). The sensitivities of AC, TC, and SFC at a cutoff point of 1 colony-forming unit/plate and 1 positive culture were 60%, 59%, and 71%, respectively. At a cutoff point of 2 positive cultures, the combination (vs conventional) method showed significantly greater sensitivity (71% vs 47%; P = .008).Conclusion: By incorporating SFCs into conventional culture methods, the diagnostic accuracy in the context of OIAI was significantly improved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article provides a detailed analysis using learning theory of the classic naval confrontation between the Allies and Germany in the North Atlantic during the Second World War. New measures of countermeasure effectiveness introduced are the rate and probability of sinking as a function of the risk exposure and learning opportunity on both sides. These replace the 'sweep rate' used in earlier analyses, and demonstrates that a relevant risk exposure, experience and learning measure must replace the usual calendar time representation. Using archival data, the analysis confirms that the use of decryption intelligence did not itself result in a statistically significant increase in U-boat sinkings. At both the entire system and the individual human performance levels the rate, probability and number of sinkings are all exponential in form, decreasing with increasing experience and/or risk exposure. The reduction of between five and ten in the merchant ship loss data is exactly the range attained in multiple industrial and technological systems worldwide. The analysis shows the learning rate and countermeasure effectiveness trends are adversely affected by the stress of combat and wartime chaos as compared to peacetime. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction With the Standards voicing concern for the appropriateness of response processes, we need to explore strategies that would allow us to identify inappropriate rater response processes. Although certain statistics can be used to help detect rater bias, their use is complicated by either a lack of data about their actual power to detect rater bias or the difficulty related to their application in the context of health professions education. This exploratory study aimed to establish the worthiness of pursuing the use of lz to detect rater bias. Methods We conducted a Monte Carlo simulation study to investigate the power of a specific detection statistic, that is: the standardized likelihood lz person-fit statistics (PFS). Our primary outcome was the detection rate of biased raters, namely: raters whom we manipulated into being either stringent (giving lower scores) or lenient (giving higher scores), using the lz statistic while controlling for the number of biased raters in a sample (6 levels) and the rate of bias per rater (6 levels). Results Overall, stringent raters (M = 0.84, SD = 0.23) were easier to detect than lenient raters (M = 0.31, SD = 0.28). More biased raters were easier to detect then less biased raters (60% bias: 62, SD = 0.37; 10% bias: 43, SD = 0.36). Discussion The PFS lz seems to offer an interesting potential to identify biased raters. We observed detection rates as high as 90% for stringent raters, for whom we manipulated more than half their checklist. Although we observed very interesting results, we cannot generalize these results to the use of PFS with estimated item/station parameters or real data. Such studies should be conducted to assess the feasibility of using PFS to identify rater bias. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Adenoma detection rate (ADR) and sessile serrated polyp detection rate (SSPDR) data in surveillance colonoscopy are limited.Aims: Our aim was to determine surveillance ADR and SSPDR and identify associated predictors.Methods: A retrospective review of subjects who underwent surveillance colonoscopy for adenoma and/or SSP at an academic center was performed. The following exclusion criteria were applied: prior colonoscopy ≤ 3 years, incomplete examination, or another indication for colonoscopy. Patient, endoscopist, and procedure characteristics were collected. Predictors were identified using multivariable logistic regression.Results: Of 3807 colonoscopies, 2416 met inclusion criteria. Surveillance ADR was 49% and, SSPDR was 8%. Higher ADR was associated with: age per year (OR 1.03; 95% CI 1.02-1.04), male gender (OR 1.55; 95% CI 1.29-1.88), BMI per kg/m2 (OR 1.02; 95% CI 1.01-1.04), withdrawal time per minute (OR 1.09; 95% CI 1.07-1.10), and endoscopists' screening ADR (OR 1.01; 95% CI 1.00-1.03). Years since training (OR 0.99; 95% CI 0.98-0.99) was associated with lower ADR. Family history of CRC (OR 1.58; 95% CI 1.02-2.27) and endoscopists' screening ADR (OR 1.40; 95% CI 1.15-1.74) were associated with higher SSPDR. African-American race (OR 0.36; 95% CI 0.10-0.75) and diabetes (OR 0.41; 95% CI 0.21-0.76) were associated with lower SSPDR.Conclusions: For surveillance colonoscopy, nearly half of patients had an adenoma and one in twelve had an SSP. In addition to established factors, BMI, endoscopists' screening ADR, and years since training were associated with ADR, whereas African-American race and diabetes were inversely associated with SSPDR. Further studies are needed prior to integrating surveillance ADR and SSPDR into quality metrics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Humans occupy and form the centerpiece of the built environment. However, humans have been traditionally treated as passive receptors in the context of the environment. Growing evidence indicates that humans could be an important source of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), especially in relatively crowded environments such as aircraft cabins and conference rooms. In this work, a method and a corresponding apparatus for analyzing VOCs in exhaled breath were developed. A total of 117 healthy human subjects were recruited and their breath samples were collected and analyzed for major VOC species. The average number of VOC species in each exhaled sample was 49.3, ranging from 11 to 98. The majority of common VOCs were alkanes, followed by oxygenated compounds such as aldehydes and ketones. In addition to common VOCs, emissions from different subjects were found to have highly individual characteristics. The study offers a method suitable for large-scale sampling and analysis of VOCs from human exhaled breath. Results obtained from this study could provide necessary information about humans being considered as indoor pollutant sources under specific conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of commercial echosounders for scientific and industrial purposes is steadily increasing. In addition to traditional navigational and fisheries uses, commercial sonars are used extensively for oceanographic research, benthic habitat mapping, geophysical exploration, and ecosystem studies. Little is known about the effects of these acoustic sources on marine animals, though several studies have already demonstrated behavioural responses of cetaceans to shipboard echosounders. Some species of cetaceans are known to be particularly sensitive to acoustic disturbance, including beaked whales. In 2011 and 2013, we conducted cetacean assessment surveys in the western North Atlantic in which a suite of Simrad EK60 echosounders was used to characterize the distribution of prey along survey tracklines. Echosounders were alternated daily between active and passive mode, to determine whether their use affected visual and acoustic detection rates of beaked whales. A total of 256 groups of beaked whales were sighted, and 118 definitive acoustic detections were recorded. Regression analyses using generalized linear models (GLM) found that sea state and region were primary factors in determining visual sighting rates, while echosounder state was the primary driver for acoustic detections, with significantly fewer detections (only 3%) occurring when echosounders were active. These results indicate that beaked whales both detect and change their behaviour in response to commercial echosounders. The mechanism of this response is unknown, but could indicate interruption of foraging activity or vessel avoidance, with potential implications for management and mitigation of anthropogenic impacts.

Background: Population-based esophageal cancer (EC) screening trials and programs have been conducted in China for decades; however, screening strategies have been adopted in different regions and screening profiles are unclear., Objective: We performed a meta-analysis to profile EC screening in China by positivity rate, compliance rate, and endoscopy findings, aiming to provide explicit evidence and recommendations for EC screening programs., Methods: English (PubMed, Embase) and Chinese (China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wanfang) language databases were systematically searched for population-based EC screening studies in the Chinese population until December 31, 2022. A meta-analysis was performed by standard methodology using a random-effects model. Pooled prevalence rates were calculated for three groups: high-risk areas with a universal endoscopy strategy, rural China with a risk-stratified endoscopic screening (RSES) strategy, and urban China with an RSES strategy. Positive cases included lesions of severe dysplasia, carcinoma in situ, intramucosal carcinoma, submucosal carcinoma, and invasive carcinoma., Results: The pooled positivity rate of the high-risk population was higher in rural China (44.12%) than in urban China (23.11%). The compliance rate of endoscopic examinations was the highest in rural China (52.40%), followed by high-risk areas (50.11%), and was the lowest in urban China (23.67%). The pooled detection rate of positive cases decreased from 1.03% (95% CI 0.82%-1.30%) in high-risk areas to 0.48% (95% CI 0.25%-0.93%) in rural China and 0.12% (95% CI 0.07%-0.21%) in urban China. The pooled detection rate of low-grade intraepithelial neoplasia (LGIN) was also in the same order, being the highest in high-risk areas (3.99%, 95% CI 2.78%-5.69%), followed by rural China (2.55%, 95% CI 1.03%-6.19%) and urban China (0.34%, 95% CI 0.14%-0.81%). Higher detection rates of positive cases and LGIN were observed among males than among females and at older ages. The pooled early detection rate was 81.90% (95% CI 75.58%-86.88%), which was similar to the rates in high-risk areas (82.09%), in rural China (80.76%), and in urban China (80.08%)., Conclusions: Under the current screening framework, a higher screening benefit was observed in high-risk areas than in other regions. To promote EC screening and reduce the current inequality of screening in China, more focus should be given to optimizing strategies of high-risk individual assessment and surveillance management to improve compliance with endoscopic examination., Trial Registration: PROSPERO CRD42022375720; https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display&#95;record.php?RecordID=375720., (©He Li, Yi Teng, Xinxin Yan, Maomao Cao, Fan Yang, Siyi He, Shaoli Zhang, Qianru Li, Changfa Xia, Kai Li, Wanqing Chen. Originally published in JMIR Public Health and Surveillance (https://publichealth.jmir.org), 01.06.2023.)

Automated sound recording devices have become an important monitoring tool used to estimate species richness and abundance of birds in a variety of ecological and conservation studies. The prevalence of calls detected in a specific time period can be used as an index of relative abundance, to compare between populations. However, the statistical power to infer true differences in abundance between populations is low when detections are highly aggregated in time leading to high variance between samples from the same population. Here, we used two different sampling methods, and used the data from each to calculate species richness and acoustic prevalence of nine bird taxa from a total of 50 sound recordings. The first method simulated typical monitoring techniques used by observers in the field by using a continuous five-minute section of the recording. The second method used the first 10 seconds of each minute to create a composite recording, also of five minutes total duration. There was no difference in the mean prevalence index between methods. The intermittent samples, however, produced prevalence indices with a lower standard deviation (mean difference = 19 %), detected 26% more species per five-minute sample and required 60% less total listening time to detect as many species as the continuous method. The only cost of subsampling from a long recording is the extra digital memory and battery life required to obtain the recordings in the first place. Given that these costs are minor, the intermittent method holds much promise because it detects species more efficiently and provides greater power to detect differences in a species' relative abundance, which in turn should allow for better-informed management regarding population status and trends.

Objective: To estimate the isolation demands arising from high-risk specialty-based screening for carbapenemase-producing Enterobacteriaceae (CPE), and the potential fraction of CPE burden detected.Methods: Clinical specialty groups from three London hospitals were ranked by incidence of carbapenem resistance among Escherichia coli and Klebsiella spp. Contact precaution bed-days were estimated for three screening strategies: Strategy 1, 'circulation science and renal medicine'; Strategy 2, Strategy 1 plus 'specialist services'; and Strategy 3, Strategy 2 plus 'private patients'. Isolation bed occupancy rates and potential CPE detection rates were estimated.Results: Of 99,105 admissions to the three hospitals in Financial Year 2014/15, Strategies 1, 2 and 3 would have screened 4371 (4.4%), 7482 (7.6%), and 13,542 (13.7%) patients, respectively. The specialties' isolation bed occupancy rates varied between 3% and 696% depending on strategy, number of consecutive tests, and whether or not pre-emptive isolation had been applied. Expected detection rates of the potential CPE burden in the hospital network would have varied between 17.1% and 47.5%.Conclusions: High-risk specialty-based screening has the potential to detect nearly half of the potential CPE burden, and would be more pragmatic than patient-level risk-factor-based screening. Pre-emptive isolation increases isolation requirements substantially. CPE screening strategies need to balance risk and resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High impedance fault (HIF) has long been a challenging problem in network protection due to its random behaviour and low magnitude. The conventional protection devices cannot be utilised since the HIF does not draw enough current to cause tripping. The feature of wavelet transform (WT) which decomposes a signal into different frequency bands and locations in time can be utilised to extract HIF features and detect its occurrence. In the study, HIF arcing currents associated with different types of contact surface are produced by experiments set up in the laboratory. Features of the fault currents are extracted and a new detection criterion is developed based on WT coefficients. Transformer magnetising inrush currents and capacitor switching transients are also produced by experiment and simulation, respectively, to represent transient disturbances commonly occurred in the distribution network. The detection criterion is used to discriminate the HIF from other normal non‐fault transient events. Three different types of wavelet are tested and the Daubechies wavelet Db4 gives the best performance based on its detection and discrimination rates. The efficacy of utilising existing conventional current transformers for HIF application is also tested and verified by experiment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To study the organic pollution situation in groundwater in plain areas in Xinjiang, Shihezi region (SHZ), plain area of Yanqi Basin (YQ) and Ruoqiang-Qiemo area (RQ) were selected as the typical areas. 83 groundwater samples were collected, tested, and analyzed for 39 organic indexes for the first time. Results showed that the local groundwater in SHZ, YQ, and RQ had been slightly affected by organic pollution with the detection rates of 8.7, 33.3, and 33.3 %, respectively. Seven organic pollutants were detected, including chloroform (with the highest detection rate of 21.7 %), 1,2-dichloroethane, 1,2-dichlorobenzene, toluene, benzo(a)pyrene, α-BHC, and γ-BHC. The contents of all the detected organic pollutants were low, which were under the limits of the ' Standards for Drinking Water Quality (GB5749-2006)'. Vertical distribution of detection rates was that in SHZ, shallow confined groundwater (12.5 %) > deep confined groundwater (10.0 %) > unconfined groundwater (0.0 %); in YQ, unconfined groundwater (66.7 %) > deep confined groundwater (29.2 %) > shallow confined groundwater (25.0 %); in RQ, shallow confined groundwater (66.7 %) > unconfined groundwater (33.3 %) > deep confined groundwater (16.7 %). The sources and properties of organic pollutants were the main factors that affected groundwater organic pollution in the study areas. The infiltration recharge of surface water mainly affected groundwater organic pollution in SHZ and YQ. Besides, the vadose zone had a certain restriction on the occurrence and migration of groundwater organic pollution components in RQ. Direct discharge of sewage came from human life and production without treatment, and leakage due to crude anti-seepage facilities had led to groundwater organic pollution. The organic wastewater produced in livestock and poultry breeding, chemical fertilizers, and insecticides in agricultural activities were also the main sources of groundwater organic pollution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Secondary forests are now prominent features in Neotropical landscapes, yet little is known about their conservation value for nonvolant mammalian communities. We performed a 20-month study using transect walks to survey the nonvolant mammal fauna in primary and secondary forests at La Selva Biological Station in the Caribbean lowlands of northeastern Costa Rica. We found that secondary forests can hold complex mammalian communities and no species exhibited habitat preferences between primary and secondary forests. With few exceptions, behavioral and group dynamic characteristics of mammal species were similar between forest types. Our research allows us to address methodological questions and assess the effectiveness of transect sampling. Monthly detection rates vary widely by species and likely reflect short-term changes in behavior rather than population fluctuations. Air temperature and rainfall are the factors most associated with monthly detection rates for various species. Small-scale areas of higher and lower use are evident for several species. Neither time of morning for surveys nor number of observers per trail affects detection rate. We report current abundances for the most commonly observed species and note generally lower densities in the Caribbean lowlands than elsewhere in the Neotropics. This research highlights that in less seasonal, evergreen forests climatic factors can still affect mammalian behavior. Overall, we find that secondary forests are of high conservation value and that transect walks are an effective methodology to sample many nonvolant mammal species, and we present recommendations on how to sample properly to conduct rigorous and long-term studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A hanseníase no Brasil ainda é um problema a ser equacionado e, no Estado de São Paulo, há varias regiões com altas taxas de detecção. O presente estudo objetivou analisar a distribuição e quantificar a dependência espacial das taxas médias de detecção da hanseníase no Estado de São Paulo, no período de 1991-2002, empregando técnicas geoestatísticas. Verificou-se tendência levemente decrescente das taxas médias de detecção para o Estado de São Paulo. Altos índices do indicador podem ser visualizados nas regiões oeste e noroeste de São Paulo. A dependência espacial encontrada foi de aproximadamente 30 km. Com os resultados encontrados, conclui-se que a análise de superfície das taxas médias de detecção pode auxiliar na escolha de áreas prioritárias visando aos exames de coletividade e ao incremento dos exames nos contatos dos casos detectados.Leprosy is a problem yet to be solved in Brazil, and in the State of São Paulo there are still areas with high detection rates. The present study aimed to analyze the distribution and quantify the spatial dependency of mean detection rates for leprosy in the State of São Paulo, during the 1991-2002 period, utilizing geostatistical techniques. A slight tendency toward decreased mean detection rates was verified in the State of São Paulo. High indexes of the indicator could be visualized in the West and Northwest regions of São Paulo. An estimated 30 km spatial dependency was detected. Based on the results, it could be concluded that analyzing the surface of mean detection rates may be helpful for choosing priority areas for examining groups of people, and to increment tests for the contacts of cases detected.

Aims. The article addresses incidence and causes of belated diagnostics of pancreatogenic diabetes mellitus (DM). Materials and methods. In 367 patients with chronic biliary or alcoholic pancreatitis (CP) glycemia and glycated hemoglobin HbA1c levels were testedin order to detect a metabolic disorder (DM or impaired glucose tolerance). Results. We observed positive correlation between duration of CP (1 to 10 years) and incidence of DM, with the latter being 3 to 5 times greater inpatients with 10 years of CP experience. During remission period 44,8% of patients were not aware of development of DM. In more than 80% ofpatients CP was diagnosed during admission for exacerbation of DM. Conclusion. Low detection rates of pancreatogenic DM is largely due to insufficient risk awareness of patients as well as inadequate attention of medicalpractitioners to the problem of CP and DM comorbidity.

Estimates of bird numbers through quantification of density and range sizes are necessary for decisions regarding conservation status, yet counts of birds are often confounded by uncertainty of detection. The status of the endemic birds of the Fynbos biome is of interest due to their conservation value in a global biodiversity hotspot, the ecological services they provide, and their importance for the avitourism industry. We conducted an extensive repeated point-count survey across the Fynbos biome, South Africa, to determine probability of detection and covariates of site occupancy for 27 bird species. Detection of most species was influenced by time of day, temperature or vegetation height. Important covariates influencing site occupancy were vegetation height, altitude, time since fire and habitat type. Site occupancy for four fynbos-endemic species was positively associated with increasing altitude. We further conducted point counts and mist-netting in eastern regions of the Fynbos biome to calculate local density and standardised capture rates. A linear regression analysis showed that capture rates were a function of bird densities, but that several species were captured at higher rates than expected, notably nectarivorous species. During mist-netting a relative abundance count was conducted. We expected deviation of the fit of the regression of capture rates on relative abundance to correlate with detection probability, because we expect this index to underestimate skulking and cryptic species, but there was no correlation. Estimated species richness indices were highest for the biome-wide survey, and lowest for mist-netting due to the body size limit imposed by the capture technique. Overall, we showed that point counts are an effective method for surveying birds in the fynbos and that mist-netting can be used to create an index of relative abundance for smaller species, but can be significantly affected by net placement. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The abundances and habitat preferences of peccaries in Neotropical forests are important to understand because these keystone species influence many aspects of the ecosystem. In the Caribbean lowlands of Costa Rica, we conducted walking surveys for ~2 years to study the behavior and population trends of collared peccaries (Pecari tajacu), and found that peccaries are abundant at La Selva Biological Station and overall, detection rates were relatively constant through time. A stable estimate of detection rates was achieved only after 7-9 months of surveying. We found no habitat preferences between primary and secondary forest, yet there were some differences in group dynamics--group radius was larger and sighting distance was greater in primary forest, whereas the number of singletons was higher in secondary forest. More peccaries were seen closer to the laboratory clearing than at greater distances, for a variety of probable reasons: habituation to humans, lower predation and hunting pressure, and various environmental and habitat factors. Peccary groups had spatially clumped distributions across the landscape and were more active diurnally than nocturnally. Collared peccary densities are relatively high at La Selva compared to other Neotropical sites, with the exception of Barro Colorado Island. We combined our data with a review of the historical literature to assess changes in the populations of peccaries in the Caribbean lowlands. We found that collared peccaries have likely increased in abundance at La Selva, seemingly a few years after the extirpation of white-lipped peccaries (Tayassu pecari), which were abundant in the area 40-50 years ago. An understanding of the group dynamics, behavior, and habitat preference of collared peccaries is essential for management decisions and conservation efforts. Additionally, assessment of population changes should be carefully considered in a historical context, with a particular focus on how the populations of the 2 peccary species have changed, and how these species might differentially affect their environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tachycardia Detection, ICD, CRT-D Devices, Appropriate and Inappropriate Shock. Introduction: We evaluated the frequency of appropriate and inappropriate shocks and survival in patients using dual-zone programming versus single-zone programming. Methods and Results: For the ALTITUDE REDUCES study, patients were followed for 1.6 ± 1.1 years. The 12-month incidence of any shock was lower for dual-versus single-zone programmed detection at rates ≤170 bpm and between 170-200 bpm (P < 0.001). Appropriate shock rates at 1 year were also lower with dual-zone programming in these rate intervals (single zone 9.1%, 5.4%, P < 0.001, dual zone 6.7%, 4.7%, P < 0.02). There were no detectable differences between single- and dual-zone shock incidence at detection rates ≥ 200 bpm (P = 0.14). Inappropriate shock incidence was less with dual- versus single-zone detection at all detect rates <200 bpm, but not at rates ≥200 bpm (P < 0.001, P = 0.37). The lowest risk of appropriate and inappropriate shock was associated with dual-zone programming and detection rates ≥200 bpm (2.1%). Dual-zone detection was associated with more nonsustained and diverted therapy episodes but these patients did not have an increased risk of death compared to patients with single-zone programming. Patients programmed to low detection rate, single-zone detection and shock-only therapy also had the highest preshock mortality risk (P = 0.05). Conclusions: Shock incidence is lowest with either single- or dual-zone detection ≥200 bpm. For detection rates <200 bpm, dual-zone programming is associated with a reduction in the incidence of total shocks, appropriate shocks, and inappropriate shocks. (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 22, pp. 1023-1029, September 2011) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Recent work in France has suggested that poor geographic access to primary healthcare may have a negative influence upon detection rates of the hepatitis C virus. Topography and poor infrastructure can exacerbate geographic remoteness, while the stigma surrounding hepatitis C and intravenous drug use may also discourage healthcare-seeking behaviour in rural communities with limited choice of general practitioner. No similar study has been conducted in the UK, where detection rates of hepatitis C are also low. Moreover, the previous French findings did not adjust for the uneven spatial distribution of HCV prevalence and associated risk factors, which raises the possibility that the reported travel-time associations were a reflection of greater hepatitis C prevalence in urban areas (where the travel-times to primary healthcare are short) and not an effect of geographic access to primary healthcare. Using geographic information systems, Poisson regression and a dataset from Tayside (Scotland), we explored whether lower rates of hepatitis C detection were associated with higher travel-times to primary healthcare. We tested whether any travel-time effects remained once the models were adjusted for deprivation, by controlling for the spatial variation of some of the known risk factors of hepatitis C infection. Separate models were calculated according to patient history of opiate substitution therapy to take account of people likely to have been infected through intravenous drug use. Rates of detected hepatitis C were highest among males aged between 25 and 39 years. A statistically significant travel-time-decay effect was observed, though with notable attenuation for all patients after adjusting for deprivation. Further modelling identified a travel-time effect only for those who had received opiate substitution therapy. The absence of a similar effect in the non-opiate substitution therapy group indicates that selection effects, not causation, are the most likely explanation for the initial travel-time-decay effects. Thus, future studies of hepatitis C detection and geographic access to primary healthcare will need to consider ways of controlling for the uneven spatial distribution of HCV prevalence and associated risk factors beyond ecological measures of socioeconomic deprivation. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The article focuses on the study on the monitoring of a New Zealand freshwater fish community through the use of passive integrated transponder (PIT) technology. It highlights the methods employed by the research including the site which is the Mangaore stream, western tributary of the Manawatu River, New Zealand.

In lizards, site selection is related to the acquisition of resources such as refuges, mates or prey, but also to the exploitation of sites suitable for thermoregulation. The latter process may be affected by lizard posture and body axis orientation in relation to the sun as a way to optimize heat exchange throughout the day. Specific postures and body orientations could also contribute to more efficient signal transmission in social contexts. In this paper we analyze activity and body axis orientation of adult males and females of the lacertid Gallotia galloti in two localities of Tenerife with different structural habitats. We performed transects at both sampling localities in the morning and at midday during May and June of three years (2002-2004). The numbers of lizards detected per unit time during transects at both localities were similar; however, significantly more males than females were detected. Moreover, more lizards were found oriented parallel or perpendicular to the sun than in alternative (oblique) orientations. Heating rates were not different for copper lizard models oriented parallel or perpendicular to the sun, neither in the morning nor at midday, and there was no significant relationship between air temperature and lizard body orientation. This suggests that lizard body orientation is not constrained by thermoregulatory requirements. We discuss alternative hypotheses and conclude that body axis orientation in G. galloti lizards may reflect a compromise between the conflicting demands imposed by thermoregulation and social communication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]