bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intelligent recognition of composite material damage based on deep learning and infrared testing
Authors: Li Caizhi , Wei Xiaolong , He Weifeng , Guo Hanyi , Zhong Jiacen , Wu Xin , Xu Haojun
Published: September 2021

Composite materials are commonly used in aircraft, and the integrity of these materials affects both flight and safety performance. Damage detection technology involving infrared nondestructive testing has played an important role in damage detection in aircraft composite materials. Traditional manual detection methods are inefficient, and the use of intelligent detection methods can effectively improve detection efficiency. Due to the diverse types of damage that can occur in composite materials, this damage is difficult to distinguish solely from infrared images. The introduction of infrared signals, which is temporal signals, provides the possibility of judging the type of damage. In this paper, a 1D-YOLOv4 network is established. The network is based on the YOLOv4 network and adds a changing neck and a 1D-CNN for improvement. Testing shows that the algorithm can identify infrared images and infrared signals in composite materials. Its recognition accuracy is 98.3%, with an AP of 91.9%, and a kappa of 0.997. Comparing the network in this paper with networks such as YOLOv3, YOLOv4 and YOLOv4+Neck, the results show that the proposed network is more effective. At the same time, the detection effects of the original data, the fitted data, the first derivative data and the second derivative data are studied, and the detection effect of the first derivative data has the best outcome.
Sub-100 fs mode-locked Tm:CLTGG laser
Authors: Wang Li , Chen Weidong , Pan Zhongben , Loiko Pavel , Bae Ji Eun , Rotermund Fabian , Mateos Xavier , Griebner Uwe , Petrov Valentin
Published: September 2021

We report on the first sub-100 fs mode-locked laser operation of a Tm3+-doped disordered calcium lithium tantalum gallium garnet (Tm:CLTGG) crystal. Soliton mode-locking was initiated and stabilized by a transmission-type single-walled carbon nanotube saturable absorber. Pulses as short as 69 fs were achieved at a central wavelength of 2010.4 nm with an average power of 28 mW at a pulse repetition rate of ∼87.7 MHz. In the sub-100 fs regime, the maximum average output power amounted to 103 mW.
Demonstration of a diffraction-based optical diffuser inspired by the Morpho butterfly
Authors: Yamashita Kazuma , Kunitsu Kentaro , Hattori Takuma , Kuwahara Yuji , Saito Akira
Published: September 2021

Optical diffusers are widely used in a variety of light sources to create uniform illumination over a wide field of view. Inspired by the diffraction-based light diffusion of the Morpho butterfly, here we demonstrate a novel diffuser which fulfils (i) high transmittance, (ii) wide angular spread, and (iii) low color dispersion. Two-dimensional nanopatterns were designed using optical simulations to enable simple fabrication. By introducing anisotropy into the surface nanopatterns, we achieved control of anisotropic light diffusion, which has been challenging for conventional diffusers. Next, the designed diffuser was implemented over a large area (100 × 100 mm2) via nanoimprint lithography. The obtained diffuser demonstrated a high transmittance of ∼85% and full width at half maximum (FWHM) of >60° with low color dispersion, outperforming conventional diffusers. Since the presented diffuser has the controllable diffusion properties with low light loss, it has many applications including LED lighting, displays, and daylight harvesting systems.
Investigation of photon emitters in Ce-implanted hexagonal boron nitride
Authors: López-Morales Gabriel I. , Li Mingxing , Hampel Alexander , Satapathy Sitakanta , Proscia Nicholas V. , Jayakumar Harishankar , Lozovoi Artur , Pagliero Daniela , Lopez Gustavo E. , Menon Vinod M. , Flick Johannes , Meriles Carlos A.
Published: September 2021

Color centers in hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) are presently attracting broad interest as a novel platform for nanoscale sensing and quantum information processing. Unfortunately, their atomic structures remain largely elusive and only a small percentage of the emitters studied thus far have the properties required to serve as optically addressable spin qubits. Here, we use confocal fluorescence microscopy at variable temperatures to study a new class of point defects produced via cerium ion implantation in thin hBN flakes. We find that, to a significant fraction, emitters show bright room-temperature emission, and good optical stability suggesting the formation of Ce-based point defects. Using density functional theory (DFT) we calculate the emission properties of candidate emitters, and single out the CeVB center—formed by an interlayer Ce atom adjacent to a boron vacancy—as one possible microscopic model. Our results suggest an intriguing route to defect engineering that simultaneously exploits the singular properties of rare-earth ions and the versatility of two-dimensional material hosts.
A framework for scabies control
Authors: Engelman Daniel , Marks Michael , Steer Andrew C. , Beshah Abate , Biswas Gautam , Chosidow Olivier , Coffeng Luc E. , Lardizabal Dofitas Belen , Enbiale Wendemagegn , Fallah Mosoka , Gasimov Elkhan , Hopkins Adrian , Jacobson Julie , Kaldor John M. , Ly Fatimata , Mackenzie Charles D. , McVernon Jodie , Parnaby Matthew , Rainima-Qaniuci Merelesita , Sokana Oliver , Sankara Dieudonne , Yotsu Rie , Yajima Aya , Cantey Paul T.
Published: September 2021

Scabies is a neglected tropical disease (NTD) that causes a significant health burden, particularly in disadvantaged communities and where there is overcrowding. There is emerging evidence that ivermectin-based mass drug administration (MDA) can reduce the prevalence of scabies in some settings, but evidence remains limited, and there are no formal guidelines to inform control efforts. An informal World Health Organization (WHO) consultation was organized to find agreement on strategies for global control. The consultation resulted in a framework for scabies control and recommendations for mapping of disease burden, delivery of interventions, and establishing monitoring and evaluation. Key operational research priorities were identified. This framework will allow countries to set control targets for scabies as part of national NTD strategic plans and develop control strategies using MDA for high-prevalence regions and outbreak situations. As further evidence and experience are collected and strategies are refined over time, formal guidelines can be developed. The control of scabies and the reduction of the health burden of scabies and associated conditions will be vital to achieving the targets set in WHO Roadmap for NTDs for 2021 to 2030 and the Sustainable Development Goals.
Metabolomics reveal alterations in arachidonic acid metabolism in Schistosoma mekongi after exposure to praziquantel
Authors: Chienwichai Peerut , Tipthara Phornpimon , Tarning Joel , Limpanont Yanin , Chusongsang Phiraphol , Chusongsang Yupa , Adisakwattana Poom , Reamtong Onrapak
Published: September 2021

Background

Mekong schistosomiasis is a parasitic disease caused by the blood-dwelling fluke Schistosoma mekongi. This disease contributes to human morbidity and mortality in the Mekong region, posing a public health threat to people in the area. Currently, praziquantel (PZQ) is the drug of choice for the treatment of Mekong schistosomiasis. However, the molecular mechanisms of PZQ action remain unclear, and Schistosoma PZQ resistance has been reported occasionally. Through this research, we aimed to use a metabolomic approach to identify the potentially altered metabolic pathways in S. mekongi associated with PZQ treatment.

Methodology/Principal findings

Adult stage S. mekongi were treated with 0, 20, 40, or 100 μg/mL PZQ in vitro. After an hour of exposure to PZQ, schistosome metabolites were extracted and studied with mass spectrometry. The metabolomic data for the treatment groups were analyzed with the XCMS online platform and compared with data for the no treatment group. After low, medium (IC50), and high doses of PZQ, we found changes in 1,007 metabolites, of which phosphatidylserine and anandamide were the major differential metabolites by multivariate and pairwise analysis. In the pathway analysis, arachidonic acid metabolism was found to be altered following PZQ treatment, indicating that this pathway may be affected by the drug and potentially considered as a novel target for anti-schistosomiasis drug development.

Conclusions/Significance

Our findings suggest that arachidonic acid metabolism is a possible target in the parasiticidal effects of PZQ against S. mekongi. Identifying potential targets of the effective drug PZQ provides an interesting viewpoint for the discovery and development of new agents that could enhance the prevention and treatment of schistosomiasis.
A high-throughput microsphere-based immunoassay of anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgM testing for COVID-19 diagnostics
Authors: Zhang Dayu , Xu Tianyang , Chu Eric , Zhang Aiguo , Du Jinwei , Sha Michael Y.
Published: September 2021

The pandemic of novel coronavirus disease COVID-19 is rapidly expanding across the world. A positive result of antibody tests suggests that the individual has potentially been exposed to SARS-CoV-2, thus allowing to identify asymptomatic infections and determine the seroprevalence in a given population. The aim of this study was to evaluate the performances of a newly developed high throughput immunoassay for anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgM antibody detection on the Luminex MAGPIX platform. Clinical agreement studies were performed in 42 COVID-19 patient serum samples and 162 negative donor serum/plasma samples. Positive percent agreement (PPA) was 42.86% (95% CI: 9.90% to 81.59%), 71.43% (95% CI: 29.04% to 96.33%), and 28.57% (95% CI: 13.22% to 48.67%) for samples collected on 0–7 days, 8–14 days, and 2–8 weeks from symptom onset, respectively. Negative Percent Agreement (NPA) was 97.53% (95% CI: 93.80% to 99.32%). There was no cross-reactivity with the SARS-CoV-2 IgG antibody. Hemoglobin (200 mg/dL), bilirubin (2 mg/dL), triglyceride (250 mg/dL) and EDTA (10 mM) showed no significant interfering effect on this assay. In conclusion, an anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgM antibody assay with high sensitivity and specificity has been developed. With the high throughput, this assay will speed up the anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgM testing.
Individual and community-level determinants of knowledge of ovulatory cycle among women of childbearing age in Ethiopia: A multilevel analysis based on 2016 Ethiopian Demographic and Health Survey
Authors: Dagnew Baye , Teshale Achamyeleh Birhanu , Dagne Henok , Diress Mengistie , Tesema Getayeneh Antehunegn , Dewau Reta , Molla Meseret Derbew , Yeshaw Yigizie
Published: September 2021

Background

Knowledge of the ovulatory cycle (KOC) aids women to refrain and engage in sexual intercourse to avoid and to get pregnancy, respectively. The effect of community-level factors on KOC was not yet known in Ethiopia. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the community- and individual-level determinants of KOC among women of childbearing age.

Methods

We used the 2016 Ethiopian Demographic and Health Survey, and total weighted samples of 15,683 women were included. Intra-class correlation, median odds ratio, and deviance were executed for model comparison in which a model with the lowest deviance was the best model i.e. model III in this case. A multivariable multilevel logistic regression model was employed to identify community- and individual-level factors of correct KOC. In the ultimate model, an adjusted odds ratio (AOR) with a 95% confidence interval was reported and variables with a p<0.05 were considered as statistically significant.

Results

In this study, 3,698 [23.58% (95% CI; 22.92–24.25)] participants had correct KOC. Women’s age in years, i.e. 20–24 (AOR = 1.46;1.28–1.68) 25–29 (AOR = 1.72; 1.49–1.99), 30–34 (AOR = 2.21; 1.89–2.58), 35–39 (AOR = 1.78; 1.51–2.09), 40–44 (AOR = 1.97; 1.65–2.37), and 45–49 (AOR = 1.78; 1.44–2.19), knowledge of contraceptive methods (AOR = 3.08; 2.07–4.58), increased women’s educational level, i.e. higher (AOR = 4.24; 3.54–5.07), secondary (AOR = 2.89; 2.48–3.36), and primary (AOR = 1.57; 1.39–1.78), higher household’s wealth index, i.e. richest (AOR = 1.71; 1.35–2.16), richer (AOR = 1.42; 1.16–1.72), middle (AOR = 1.29; 1.07–1.56), and poorer (AOR = 1.24; 1.03–1.48), current contraceptive use (AOR = 1.26; 1.13–1.39), menstruating in the last six weeks (AOR = 1.13; 1.03–1.24), women’s media exposure (AOR = 1.20; 1.07–1.35), and being in the community with a high level of media exposure (AOR = 1.53; 1.24–1.88) were statistically significant with KOC.

Conclusions

Knowledge of the ovulatory cycle was low in this study, which demands health education for women of childbearing age. Special attention should be given to teenagers, those with lower educational, and lower economic status. Besides, the strengthening of media campaigns could increase women’s KOC, which is crucial for preventing unintended pregnancy.
Alpha-single chains of collagen type VI inhibit the fibrogenic effects of triple helical collagen VI in hepatic stellate cells
Authors: Freise Christian , Lee Hyunho , Chronowski Christopher , Chan Doug , Cziomer Jessica , Rühl Martin , Dagdelen Tarkan , Lösekann Maik , Erben Ulrike , Catic Andre , Tegge Werner , Schuppan Detlef , Somasundaram Rajan , Sahin Ergun
Published: September 2021

The interaction of extracellular matrix (ECM) components with hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) is thought to perpetuate fibrosis by stimulating signaling pathways that drive HSC activation, survival and proliferation. Consequently, disrupting the interaction between ECM and HSCs is considered a therapeutical avenue although respective targets and underlying mechanisms remain to be established. Here we have interrogated the interaction between type VI collagen (CVI) and HSCs based on the observation that CVI is 10-fold upregulated during fibrosis, closely associates with HSCs in vivo and promotes cell proliferation and cell survival in cancer cell lines. We exposed primary rat HSCs and a rat hepatic stellate cell line (CFSC) to soluble CVI and determined the rate of proliferation, apoptosis and fibrogenesis in the absence of any additional growth factors. We find that CVI in nanomolar concentrations prevents serum starvation-induced apoptosis. This potent anti-apoptotic effect is accompanied by induction of proliferation and acquisition of a pronounced pro-fibrogenic phenotype characterized by increased α-smooth muscle actin, TGF-β, collagen type I and TIMP-1 expression and diminished proteolytic MMP-13 expression. The CVI-HSC interaction can be disrupted with the monomeric α2(VI) and α3(VI) chains and abrogates the activating CVI effects. Further, functional relevant α3(VI)—derived 30 amino acid peptides lead to near-complete inhibition of the CVI effect. In conclusion, CVI serves as a potent mitogen and activating factor for HSCs. The antagonistic effects of the CVI monomeric chains and peptides point to linear peptide sequences that prevent activation of CVI receptors which may allow a targeted antifibrotic therapy.
Classifying muscle parameters with artificial neural networks and simulated lateral pinch data
Authors: Kearney Kalyn M. , Harley Joel B. , Nichols Jennifer A.
Published: September 2021

Objective

Hill-type muscle models are widely employed in simulations of human movement. Yet, the parameters underlying these models are difficult or impossible to measure in vivo. Prior studies demonstrate that Hill-type muscle parameters are encoded within dynamometric data. But, a generalizable approach for estimating these parameters from dynamometric data has not been realized. We aimed to leverage musculoskeletal models and artificial neural networks to classify one Hill-type muscle parameter (maximum isometric force) from easily measurable dynamometric data (simulated lateral pinch force). We tested two neural networks (feedforward and long short-term memory) to identify if accounting for dynamic behavior improved accuracy.

Methods

We generated four datasets via forward dynamics, each with increasing complexity from adjustments to more muscles. Simulations were grouped and evaluated to show how varying the maximum isometric force of thumb muscles affects lateral pinch force. Both neural networks classified these groups from lateral pinch force alone.

Results

Both neural networks achieved accuracies above 80% for datasets which varied only the flexor pollicis longus and/or the abductor pollicis longus. The inclusion of muscles with redundant functions dropped model accuracies to below 30%. While both neural networks were consistently more accurate than random guess, the long short-term memory model was not consistently more accurate than the feedforward model.

Conclusion

Our investigations demonstrate that artificial neural networks provide an inexpensive, data-driven approach for approximating Hill-type muscle-tendon parameters from easily measurable data. However, muscles of redundant function or of little impact to force production make parameter classification more challenging.
Mutagenicity evaluation to UV filters of benzophenone-6, benzophenone-8, and 4-methylbenzylidene camphor by Ames test
Authors: Zhang Jing , Pei Zhou-Tao , Zhao Ya-Ni , Zhang Meng , Zhang Li-Ling , Wang Wen-Qiang , Wu Jing-Ya , Yu Ran , Sun Li-Wei
Published: September 2021

Benzophenone (BPs) and 4-Methylbenzylidene Camphor are used as ultraviolet (UV) filters to protect the skin and hair in personal care products. The discharging of the three chemicals may endanger the receiving water ecosystem. In the present study, the mutagenicity of BP-6, BP-8, and 4-Methylbenzylidene Camphor was tested using the Salmonella typhimurium reverse mutation test (Ames test) in the system with and without rat liver microsomal preparations (S9). Four S.typhimurium strains, TA97, TA98, TA100, and TA102 were employed in the Ames tests. The mutagenicity was detected from all three chemicals. The addition of S9 increased the mutation ratios of three chemicals to four strains, except BP-6 to TA100 strain and 4-MBC to TA97 and TA98 strain. In the mixed experiment, all positive effects were detected in the absence of S9. However, the results all became negative in the presence of S9. For the mixture of BP-6 and 4-MBC, positive results were detected on four tester strains except for the TA100 strain. For the mixture of BP-6, BP-8, and 4-MBC, positive results were detected on four strains. The mixture test results showed antagonism in mutagenicity for the mixture of BP-6 and 4-MBC to TA98 and TA100 strains and the mixture of BP-6, BP-8, and 4-MBC to TA100 and TA102 strains.
Risk factors associated with the development of delirium in general ICU patients. A prospective observational study
Authors: Lobo-Valbuena Beatriz , Gordo Federico , Abella Ana , Garcia-Manzanedo Sofía , Garcia-Arias Maria-Mercedes , Torrejón Inés , Varillas-Delgado David , Molina Rosario
Published: September 2021

Objective

We aimed to analyze risk factors related to the development of delirium, aiming for early intervention in patients with greater risk.

Material and methods

Observational study, including prospectively collected patients treated in a single general ICU. These were classified into two groups, according to whether they developed delirium or not (screening performed using CAM-ICU tool). Demographics and clinical data were analyzed. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to quantify existing associations.

Results

1462 patients were included. 93 developed delirium (incidence: 6.3%). These were older, scored higher on the Clinical Frailty Scale, on the risk scores on admission (SAPS-3 and SOFA), and had a greater number of organ failures (OF). We observed more incidence of delirium in patients who (a) presented more than two OF (20.4%; OR 4.9; CI95%: 2.9–8.2), and (b) were more than 74 years old albeit having <2 OF (8.6%; OR 2.1; CI95%: 1.3–3.5). Patients who developed delirium had longer ICU and hospital length-of-stays and a higher rate of readmission.

Conclusions

The highest risk observed for developing delirium clustered in patients who presented more than 2 OF and patients over 74 years old. The detection of patients at high risk for developing delirium could imply a change in management and improved quality of care.
Development of the petaloid bracts of a paleoherb species, Saururus chinensis
Authors: Zhao Yin-He , Zhang Xue-Mei , Li De-Zhu
Published: September 2021

Saururus chinensis is a core member of Saururaceae, an ancient, perianthless (lacking petals or sepals) family of the magnoliids in the Mesangiospermae, which is important for understanding the origin and evolution of early flowers due to its unusual floral composition and petaloid bracts. To compare their transcriptomes, RNA-seq abundance analysis identified 43,463 genes that were found to be differentially expressed in S. chinensis bracts. Of these, 5,797 showed significant differential expression, of which 1,770 were up-regulated and 4,027 down-regulated in green compared to white bracts. The expression profiles were also compared using cDNA microarrays, which identified 166 additional differentially expressed genes. Subsequently, qRT-PCR was used to verify and extend the cDNA microarray results, showing that the A and B class MADS-box genes were up-regulated in the white bracts. Phylogenetic analysis was performed on putative S. chinensis A and B-class of MADS-box genes to infer evolutionary relationships within the A and B-class of MADS-box gene family. In addition, nature selection and protein interactions of B class MADS-box proteins were inferred that B-class genes free from evolutionary pressures. The results indicate that petaloid bracts display anatomical and gene expression features normally associated with petals, as found in petaloid bracts of other species, and support an evolutionarily conserved developmental program for petaloid bracts.
Survival of polymeric microstructures subjected to interrogatory touch
Authors: Finn Mickey , Treiber Jeremy , Issa Mahmoud , Martens Christian J. , Feeney Colin P. , Ngwa Lehna , Dhong Charles , Lipomi Darren J.
Published: September 2021

Polymeric arrays of microrelief structures have a range of potential applications. For example, to influence wettability, to act as biologically inspired adhesives, to resist biofouling, and to play a role in the “feel” of an object during tactile interaction. Here, we investigate the damage to micropillar arrays comprising pillars of different modulus, spacing, diameter, and aspect ratio due to the sliding of a silicone cast of a human finger. The goal is to determine the effect of these parameters on the types of damage observed, including adhesive failure and ploughing of material from the finger onto the array. Our experiments point to four principal conclusions [1]. Aspect ratio is the dominant parameter in determining survivability through its effect on the bending stiffness of micropillars [2]. All else equal, micropillars with larger diameter are less susceptible to breakage and collapse [3]. The spacing of pillars in the array largely determines which type of adhesive failure occurs in non-surviving arrays [4]. Elastic modulus plays an important role in survivability. Clear evidence of elastic recovery was seen in the more flexible polymer and this recovery led to more instances of pristine survivability where the stiffer polymer tended to ablate PDMS. We developed a simple model to describe the observed bending of micropillars, based on the quasi-static mechanics of beam-columns, that indicated they experience forces ranging from 10−4–10−7N to deflect into adhesive contact. Taken together, results obtained using our framework should inform design considerations for microstructures intended to be handled by human users.
Minimum inhibitory concentrations of commonly used antibiotics against Helicobacter Pylori: A multicenter study in South China
Authors: Huang Xueping , Liu Yuan , Lin Zhihui , Wu Baihe , Nong Gaohui , Chen Yushan , Lu Yuping , Ji Xinhua , Zhou Xiang , Suo Biao , Chen Qiuzhao , Wei Jinqi
Published: September 2021

Aim

To determine the minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of commonly used antibiotics against Helicobacter Pylori (H. pylori) in South China and compare their resistance rates by using EUCAST breakpoints and other breakpoints.

Methods

Patients who had not previously received H. pylori treatment in clinical centers in South China were enrolled in this study from 2017 to 2020. Gastric biopsies were obtained for H. pylori culture. The MICs of amoxicillin (AMX), clarithromycin (CLA), metronidazole (MTZ), levofloxacin (LEV), tetracycline (TET) and furazolidone (FZD) were tested by broth microdilution method and assessed by two different breakpoints. ATCC43504 standard strain served as a control.

Results

A total of 208 H. pylori strains were isolated from patients’ biopsy samples. The MICs of AMX, CLA, MTZ, LEV, TET and FZD for H. pylori were 0.0156-256mg/L (MIC50 0.125mg/L, MIC90 4mg/L), 0.0156- >256 mg/L (MIC50 0.0312mg/L, MIC90 64mg/L), 0.0156- >256mg/L (MIC50 8mg/L, MIC90 256mg/L), 0.0156-256mg/L (MIC50 0.25mg/L, MIC90 16mg/L), 0.0156-256mg/L (MIC50 0.0625mg/L, MIC90 4mg/L), and 0.0156- >256mg/L (MIC50 0.0312mg/L, MIC90 2mg/L), respectively. The MICs of AMX, CLA, MTZ, LEV, TET and FZD for ATCC43504 strain were 0.25mg/L, 0.0625mg/L, 64mg/L, 0.5mg/L, 1mg/L and 0.25mg/L, respectively. The resistance rate of FZD was 11.05%. The overall resistance rates according to EUCAST breakpoints and other breakpoints were 57.21% and 14.90% for AMX (p<0.001), 38.94% and 38.94% for CLA (p = 1), 39.42% and 50.96% for MTZ (p<0.001), 12.98% and 10.58% for TET (p = 0.025), 35.10% and 35.10% for LEV (p = 1), respectively.

Conclusions

Our results demonstrate that AMX, FZD, and TET, but not MTZ, CLR or LEV, showed good anti-H. pylori activity in vitro in South China. When different breakpoints were used, similar results were found with CLA, and LEV, but not with AMX, MTZ, or TET.
Effect of peer counselling on acceptance of modern contraceptives among female refugee adolescents in northern Uganda: A randomised controlled trial
Authors: Bakesiima Ritah , Beyeza-Kashesya Jolly , Tumwine James K. , Chalo Rose Nabirye , Gemzell-Danielsson Kristina , Cleeve Amanda , Larsson Elin C.
Published: September 2021

Background

The unmet need for contraceptives among refugee adolescents is high globally, leaving girls vulnerable to unintended pregnancies. Lack of knowledge and fear of side effects are the most reported reasons for non-use of contraceptives amongst refugee adolescents. Peer counselling, the use of trained adolescents to offer contraceptive counselling to fellow peers, has showed effectiveness in increasing use of contraceptives in non-refugee adolescent resarch.

Objective

To determine the effect of peer counselling on acceptance of modern contraceptives among female refugee adolescents in northern Uganda.

Methods

A randomised controlled trial carried out in Palabek refugee settlement in northern Uganda, May to July 2019. Adolescents were included if they were sexually active or in any form of union, wanted to delay child bearing, and were not using any contraceptives. A total of 588 consenting adolescents were randomised to either peer counselling or routine counselling, the standard of care.

Results

Adolescents who received peer counselling were more likely to accept a contraceptive method compared to those who received routine counselling (PR: 1·24, 95% CI: 1·03 to 1·50, p = 0·023). Adolescents whose partners had attained up to tertiary education were more likely to accept a method than those whose partners had secondary or less education (PR: 1·45, 95% CI: 1·02 to 2·06, p = 0·037). In both groups, the most frequently accepted methods were the injectable and implant, with the commonest reasons for non-acceptance of contraception being fear of side effects and partner prohibition.

Conclusion

Our data indicates that peer counselling has a positive effect on same day acceptance of modern contraceptives and should therefore be considered in future efforts to prevent adolescent pregnancies in refugee settings. Future peer counselling interventions should focus on how to effectively address adolescents’ fear of side effects and partner prohibition, as these factors continue to impede decision making for contraceptive uptake.
The influence of culture on care receivers’ satisfaction and aggressive tendencies in the emergency department
Authors: Lisak Alon , Efrat-Treister Dorit , Glikson Ella , Zeldetz Vladimir , Schwarzfuchs Dan
Published: September 2021

Introduction

Reducing aggressive tendencies among care receivers in the emergency department has great economic and psychological benefits for care receivers, staff, and health care organizations. In a study conducted in a large multicultural hospital emergency department, we examined how cultural factors relating to ethnicity interact to enhance care receivers’ satisfaction and reduce their aggressive tendencies. Specifically, we explored how care receivers’ cultural affiliation, individual cultural characteristics, and the cultural situational setting interact to increase care receivers’ satisfaction and reduce their aggressive tendencies.

Method

Data were collected using survey responses from 214 care receivers. We use structural equation models and the bootstrap method to analyze the data.

Results

Care receivers’ openness to diversity (an individual cultural characteristic) was positively related to their satisfaction that was associated with lower aggressive tendencies, only when they were affiliated with a cultural minority group and when the cultural situational setting included language accessibility.

Conclusion

Our results demonstrate that cultural affiliation, individual cultural characteristics, and cultural situational setting can affect care receivers’ satisfaction and aggressive tendencies in a multicultural emergency department context. In particular, high cultural openness of care receivers, and making information accessible in their native language, increased satisfaction and reduced aggressive tendencies among cultural minority care receivers in our study.
Why do patients interrupt and return to antiretroviral therapy? Retention in HIV care from the patient’s perspective in Johannesburg, South Africa
Authors: Bisnauth Melanie A. , Davies Natasha , Monareng Sibongile , Buthelezi Fezile , Struthers Helen , McIntyre James , Rees Kate
Published: September 2021

Background

Retention in care is required for optimal clinical outcomes in people living with HIV (PLHIV). Although most PLHIV in South Africa know their HIV status, only 70% are on antiretroviral therapy (ART). Improved retention in care is needed to get closer to sustained ART for all. In January 2019, Anova Health Institute conducted a campaign to encourage patients who had interrupted ART to return to care.

Methods

Data collection was conducted in one region of Johannesburg. This mixed methods study consisted of two components: 1) healthcare providers entered data into a structured tool for all patients re-initiating ART at nine clinics over a nine-month period, 2) Semi-structured interviews were conducted with a sub-set of patients. Responses to the tool were analysed descriptively, we report frequencies, and percentages. A thematic approach was used to analyse participant experiences in-depth.

Results

562 people re-initiated ART, 66% were women, 75% were 25–49 years old. The three most common reasons for disengagement from care were mobility (30%), ART related factors (15%), and time limitations due to work (10%). Reasons for returning included it becoming easier to attend the clinic (34%) and worry about not being on ART (19%). Mobile interview participants often forgot their medical files and expressed that managing their ART was difficult because they often needed a transfer letter to gain access to ART at another facility. On the other hand, clinics that had flexible and extended hours facilitated retention in care.

Conclusion

In both the quantitative data, and the qualitative analysis, changing life circumstances was the most prominent reason for disengagement from care. Health services were not perceived to be responsive to life changes or mobility, leading to disengagement. More client-centred and responsive health services should improve retention on ART.
Determining passenger car equivalent (PCEs) for pretimed signalized intersections with severe motorcycle composition using Bayesian linear regression
Authors: Sugiarto Sugiarto , Apriandy Fadhlullah , Darma Yusria , Saleh Sofyan M. , Rusdi Muhammad , Miwa Tomio
Published: September 2021

Pretimed signalized intersection is known as a common source of congestion, especially in urban heterogeneous traffic. Furthermore, the accuracy of saturation flow rate is found to cause efficient and vital capacity estimation, in order to ensure optimal design and operation of the signal timings. Presently, the traffic also consists of diverse vehicle presence, each with its own static and dynamic characteristics. The passenger car equivalent (PCE) in an essential unit is also used to measure heterogenous traffic into the PCU (Passenger Car Unit). Based on the collection of observed data at three targets in Banda Aceh City, this study aims to redetermine the PCEs by using Bayesian linear regression, through the Random-walk Metropolis-Hastings and Gibbs sampling. The result showed that the obtained PCE values were 0.24, 1.0, and 0.80 for motorcycle (MC), passenger car (PC), and motorized rickshaw (MR), respectively. It also showed that a significant deviation was found between new and IHCM PCEs, as the source of error was partially due to the vehicle compositions. The present traffic characteristics were also substantially different from the prevailing conditions of IHCM 1997. Therefore, the proposed PCEs enhanced the accuracy of base saturation flow prediction, provided support for traffic operation design, alleviated congestion, and reduced delay within the city, which in turn improved the estimation of signalized intersection capacity.
Changes in food pricing and availability on the Navajo Nation following a 2% tax on unhealthy foods: The Healthy Diné Nation Act of 2014
Authors: George Carmen , Bancroft Carolyn , Salt Shine Krystal , Curley Cameron S. , Curley Caleigh , de Heer Hendrik Dirk , Yazzie Del , Eddie Regina , Antone-Nez Ramona , Shin Sonya Sunhi
Published: September 2021

Introduction

In 2014, the Navajo Nation Healthy Diné Nation Act (HDNA) was passed, combining a 2% tax on foods of ‘minimal-to-no-nutritional value’ and waiver of 5% sales tax on healthy foods, the first-ever such tax in the U.S. and globally among a sovereign tribal nation. The aim of this study was to measure changes in pricing and food availability in stores on the Navajo Nation following the implementation of the HDNA.

Methods

Store observations were conducted in 2013 and 2019 using the Nutrition Environment Measurement Survey-Stores (NEMS-S) adapted for the Navajo Nation. Observations included store location, type, whether healthy foods or HDNA were promoted, and availability and pricing of fresh fruits and vegetables, canned items, beverages, water, snacks and traditional foods. Differences between 2013 and 2019 and by store type and location were tested.

Results

The matched sample included 71 stores (51 in the Navajo Nation and 20 in border towns). In 2019, fresh produce was available in the majority of Navajo stores, with 71% selling at least 3 types of fruit and 65% selling at least 3 types of vegetables. Compared with border town convenience stores, Navajo convenience stores had greater availability of fresh vegetables and comparable availability of fresh fruit in 2019. The average cost per item of fresh fruit decreased by 13% in Navajo stores (from $0.88 to $0.76) and increased in border stores (from $0.63 to $0.73), resulting in comparable prices in Navajo and border stores in 2019. While more Navajo stores offered mutton, blue corn and wild plants in 2019 compared to 2013, these changes were not statistically significant.

Discussion

The findings suggest modest improvements in the Navajo store environment and high availability of fruits and vegetables. Navajo stores play an important role in the local food system and provide access to local, healthy foods for individuals living in this rural, tribal community.
Association of maternal obesity with fetal and neonatal death: Evidence from South and South-East Asian countries
Authors: Haque Rezwanul , Keramat Syed Afroz , Rahman Syed Mahbubur , Mustafa Maimun Ur Rashid , Alam Khorshed
Published: September 2021

Background

Obesity prevalence is increasing in many countries in the world, including Asia. Maternal obesity is highly associated with fetal and neonatal deaths. This study investigated whether maternal obesity is a risk factor of fetal death (measured in terms of miscarriage and stillbirth) and neonatal mortality in South and South-East Asian countries.

Methods

This cross-sectional study pooled the most recent Demographic and Health Surveys (DHS) from eight South and South-East Asian countries (2014–2018). Multivariate logistic regression was deployed to check the relationships between maternal obesity with fetal and neonatal deaths. Finally, multilevel logistic regression model was employed since the DHS data has a hierarchical structure.

Results

The pooled logistic regression model illustrated that maternal obesity is associated with higher odds of miscarriage (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 1.26, 95% CI: 1.20–1.33) and stillbirths (aOR: 1.46, 95% CI: 1.27–1.67) after adjustment of confounders. Children of obese mothers were at 1.18 (aOR: 1.18, 95% CI: 1.08–1.28) times greater risk of dying during the early neonatal period than mothers with a healthy weight. However, whether maternal obesity is statistically a significant risk factor for the offspring’s late neonatal deaths was not confirmed. The significant association between maternal obesity with miscarriage, stillbirth and early neonatal mortality was further confirmed by multilevel logistic regression results.

Conclusion

Maternal obesity in South and South-East Asian countries is associated with a greater risk of fetal and early neonatal deaths. This finding has substantial public health implications. Strategies to prevent and reduce obesity should be developed before planning pregnancy to reduce the fetal and neonatal death burden. Obese women need to deliver at the institutional facility centre that can offer obstetrics and early neonatal care.
Nrf2 signaling promotes cancer stemness, migration, and expression of ABC transporter genes in sorafenib-resistant hepatocellular carcinoma cells
Authors: Gao Luping , Morine Yuji , Yamada Shinichiro , Saito Yu , Ikemoto Tetsuya , Tokuda Kazunori , Takasu Chie , Miyazaki Katsuki , Shimada Mitsuo
Published: September 2021

Background and aim

As a multiple tyrosine kinase inhibitor, sorafenib is widely used to treat hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), but patients frequently face resistance problems. Because the mechanism controlling sorafenib-resistance is not well understood, this study focused on the connection between tumor characteristics and the Nrf2 signaling pathway in a sorafenib-resistant HCC cell line.

Methods

A sorafenib-resistant HCC cell line (Huh7) was developed by increasing the dose of sorafenib in the culture medium until the target concentration was reached. Cell morphology, migration/invasion rates, and expression of stemness-related and ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporter genes were compared between sorafenib-resistant Huh7 cells and parental Huh7 cells. Next, a small interfering RNA was used to knock down Nrf2 expression in sorafenib-resistant Huh7 cells, after which cell viability, stemness, migration, and ABC transporter gene expression were examined again.

Results

Proliferation, migration, and invasion rates of sorafenib-resistant Huh7 cells were significantly increased relative to the parental cells with or without sorafenib added to the medium. The expression levels of stemness markers and ABC transporter genes were up-regulated in sorafenib-resistant cells. After Nrf2 was knocked down in sorafenib-resistant cells, cell migration and invasion rates were reduced, and expression levels of stemness markers and ABC transporter genes were reduced.

Conclusion

Nrf2 signaling promotes cancer stemness, migration, and expression of ABC transporter genes in sorafenib-resistant HCC cells.
Interocular conflict from a monocular augmented reality display: Impact of visual characteristics on performance
Authors: Bayle Elodie , Hourlier Sylvain , Lelandais Sylvie , Salasc Charles-Antoine , Leroy Laure , Plantier Justin , Neveu Pascaline
Published: September 2021

In monocular see-through augmented reality systems, each eye is stimulated differently by a monocular image that is superimposed on the binocular background. This can impair binocular fusion, due to interocular conflict. As a function of visual characteristics, the latter can have a greater or lesser impact on user comfort and performance. This study tested several visual characteristics of a binocular background and a monocular element during an exposure that reproduced the interocular conflict induced by a monocular see-through near-eye display. The aim was to identify which factors impact the user’s performance. Performance was measured as target tracking and event detection, identification, fixation time, and latency. Our results demonstrate that performance is a function of the binocular background. Furthermore, exogenous attentional stimulation, in the form of a pulse with different levels of contrast applied to the monocular display, appears to preserve performance in most background conditions.
Role of informal healthcare providers in tuberculosis care in low- and middle-income countries: A systematic scoping review
Authors: Thapa Poshan , Jayasuriya Rohan , Hall John J. , Beek Kristen , Mukherjee Parthasarathi , Gudi Nachiket , Narasimhan Padmanesan
Published: September 2021

Achieving targets set in the End TB Strategy is still a distant goal for many Low- and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs). The importance of strengthening public-private partnership by engaging all identified providers in Tuberculosis (TB) care has long been advocated in global TB policies and strategies. However, Informal Healthcare Providers (IPs) are not yet prioritised and engaged in National Tuberculosis Programs (NTPs) globally. There exists a substantial body of evidence that confirms an important contribution of IPs in TB care. A systematic understanding of their role is necessary to ascertain their potential in improving TB care in LMICs. The purpose of this review is to scope the role of IPs in TB care. The scoping review was guided by a framework developed by the Joanna Briggs Institute. An electronic search of literature was conducted in MEDLINE, EMBASE, SCOPUS, Global Health, CINAHL, and Web of Science. Of a total 5234 records identified and retrieved, 92 full-text articles were screened, of which 13 were included in the final review. An increasing trend was observed in publication over time, with most published between 2010–2019. In 60% of the articles, NTPs were mentioned as a collaborator in the study. For detection and diagnosis, IPs were primarily involved in identifying and referring patients. Administering DOT (Directly Observed Treatment) to the patient was the major task assigned to IPs for treatment and support. There is a paucity of evidence on prevention, as only one study involved IPs to perform this role. Traditional health providers were the most commonly featured, but there was not much variation in the role by provider type. All studies reported a positive role of IPs in improving TB care outcomes. This review demonstrates that IPs can be successfully engaged in various roles in TB care with appropriate support and training. Their contribution can support countries to achieve their national and global targets if prioritized in National TB Programs.
Smoking habits and the influence of war on cigarette and shisha smoking in Syria
Authors: Kakaje Ameer , Alhalabi Mohammad Marwan , Alyousbashi Ayham , Ghareeb Ayham , Hamid Loura , Al-Tammemi Ala’a B.
Published: September 2021

Tobacco smoking might be impacted by various influences, including psychological, socio-cultural, and economic factors. A community-based cross-sectional survey was conducted in Syrian Arab Republic from March to April 2019 using a web-based questionnaire. The survey aimed at assessing tobacco use (shisha and cigarettes) as well as examining the association between current tobacco use and various sociodemographic and war-related factors. The sample comprised 978 participants (251 males: 727 females) and had a mean age of 24.7 years (SD: 7.60). Most participants were single (n = 825, 84.4%), reside in Damascus and Rif-Dimashq (n = 579, 59.2%), and had a college/university education (n = 911, 93.1%). Concerning smoking, a total of 371 participants (37.9%) were identified to be current tobacco smokers, of whom 211, 84, 76 were exclusive shisha smokers, exclusive cigarette smokers, and dual smokers, respectively. The prevalence of cigarette smoking (exclusive and dual) among males and females was found to be 34.7%, and 10.0%, respectively. On the other hand, the prevalence of shisha smoking (exclusive and dual) among males and females was around 34.3% and 27.6%, respectively. Additionally, various factors have predicted a higher likelihood of cigarette smoking including male gender (AOR = 4.152; 95% CI: 2.842–6.064; p<0.001), and losing someone due to the war (AOR = 1.487; 95% CI: 1.028–2.151; p = 0.035), while unemployed individuals were found to have lower odds of being cigarette smokers (AOR = 0.634; 95% CI: 0.429–0.937; p = 0.022). Concerning shisha smoking, married (AOR = 0.622; 95% CI: 0.402–0.963; p = 0.033), and unemployed individuals (AOR = 0.679; 95% CI: 0.503–0.916; p = 0.011) were found to have lower odds of shisha smoking. Amid the tobacco epidemic in the region, rates of tobacco use in Syria are still worrying. The Syrian armed conflicts may possess a double-edged effect on smoking, and tobacco users who adopt smoking to cope with various stressors should be targeted with well-structured health education, along with appropriate psychological services.