bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Short Communication: Morphological, biochemical, and molecular identification of cellulolytic bacteria isolated from feces of endemic tropical herbivores
Authors: SUHARTI SRI , NOVRARIANI NUR , WIRYAWAN KOMANG G.
Published: September 2023

Abstract. Suharti S, Novrariani N, Wiryawan KG. 2023. Short Communication: Morphological, biochemical, and molecular identification of cellulolytic bacteria isolated from feces of endemic tropical herbivores. Biodiversitas 24: 4046-4051. Indonesia has endemic herbivores that consume lignocellulose feedstuffs including grass, tree foliage, rice straw, and legume, indicating the presence of cellulolytic bacteria in their gastrointestinal tracts. Therefore, the aim of this study was to isolate and identify cellulolytic bacteria from the feces of tropical endemic herbivores, including anoa (Bubalus depressicornis), banteng (Bos javanicus), muntjak (Muntiacus muntjak), and timor deer (Rusa timorensis). Bacteria were isolated using the serial dilution technique and screened on Carboxy Methyl Cellulose (CMC) media. The selected isolates were identified based on their morphological and biochemical characteristics, cellulase enzyme activity, and molecular identification of 16S rDNA. The result showed that a total of five bacterial isolates were isolated from feces of anoa, banteng, muntjak, and timor deer. In addition, isolates exhibited characteristics of facultative anaerobes with gram-positive coccus, fermenting glucose, fructose, sucrose, starch, and cellulose. Based on cellulolytic index, isolates from anoa and banteng feces showed high cellulolytic activity with an index of about 1.2, indicating their potential as cellulose-degrading bacteria. Molecular identification and phylogeny analysis of cellulolytic bacteria isolates from anoa and banteng feces showed 100% similarities with Enterococcus faecium. Therefore, bacteria from feces of tropical endemic herbivores, especially anoa and banteng, possess cellulolytic activity and have potential as cellulolytic probiotic for ruminants that feed on forage-based diet. This is the first study to document the cellulolytic activity of anoa, and banteng feces.
The antiviral potential of macroalgae in suppressing Sweet potato leaf curl virus (SPLCV) infection in sweet potatoes
Authors: LISTIHANI LISTIHANI , YUNITI I GUSTI AYU DIAH , SAPANCA PUTU LASMI YULIANTHI , PANDAWANI NI PUTU , SELANGGA DEWA GEDE WIRYANGGA
Published: September 2023

Abstract. Listihani L, Yuniti IGAD, Sapanca PLY, Pandawani NP, Selangga DGW. 2023. The antiviral potential of macroalgae in suppressing Sweet potato leaf curl virus (SPLCV) infection in sweet potatoes. Biodiversitas 24: 4079-4086. Sweet potato leaf curl virus (SPLCV) was first found in sweet potatoes in Indonesia in 2022. Prevention of spread of virus is essential, especially by using macroalgae extract which is environmentally friendly and has antiviral activity. The aim of present research was to test the potential of sea macroalgae to suppress SPLCV infection and to analyze phytochemicals of potential macroalgae containing an antiviral substance. Macroalgae extract was sprayed on the test plants that were infected by SPLCV. The observed parameters were changes in symptoms, disease incidence and severity, virus confirmation by PCR, and phytochemical analysis. The test results up to day 21 showed that Eucheuma spinosum was found to be effective in suppressing SPLCV infection in sweet potatoes, up to symptomless infection in young leaves. E. spinosum and E. cottonii suppressed disease incidence by 80% and 40% and lower disease severity as much as 71% and 48%, while E. serra showed less ability to suppress SPLCV infection. The two macroalgae had flavonoid, saponin, and steroid content which may be the reason to suppress the viral infection. The results of PCR analysis showed that microalgal extract had the highest nucleotide and amino acid homology with Gianyar (LC586170) isolate with values of 99.7 and 100%. The macroalgae with the highest ability to suppress the virus were E. spinosum and E. cottonii. This showed that the application of macroalgae extract did not change the amino acid sequence of SPLCV isolate.
Morphology of Setaria spp. (Setariidae; Nematoda) in Aceh cattle, Indonesia
Authors: HANAFIAH MUHAMMAD , ATHAILLAH FARIDA , HELMI T. ZAHRIAL , SUTRIANA AMALIA
Published: September 2023

Abstract. Hanafiah M, Athaillah F, Helmi TZ, Sutriana A. 2023. Morphology of Setaria spp. (Setariidae; Nematoda) in Aceh cattle, Indonesia. Biodiversitas 24: 4151-4160. Setaria spp. filaria usually inhabit the peritoneal cavity and its microfilaria can be found in cattle blood. Adult worms are considered non-pathogenic but may cause mild fibrinous peritonitis. However, microfilaria can cause serious conditions. The worms migrate randomly to the central nervous system in a non-natural host such as sheep, horses, and goats, causing serious neuropathological symptoms which are known as epizootic cerebrospinal setariosis or nematodiasis cerebrospinal. The objective of this research was to determine the prevalence of Setaria spp. microfilaria in the blood of infected Aceh cattle, identify the worm species in the peritoneal cavity, and determine the morphological difference of Setaria spp. through light microscope (LM) and Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM). This research was performed on 150 Aceh cattle slaughtered in Banda Aceh slaughterhouse. The hematocrit microcapillary method and modified Knott’s Technique were used to determine the presence of Setaria spp. microfilaria in blood, while LM and SEM were used to identify Setaria spp. adult worm. The results showed that Setaria spp. was detected in Aceh cattle blood based on modified Knott’s Technique and hematocrit microcapillary method with a similar prevalence of 13.3%. The worm identification revealed the presence of Setaria spp. in the peritoneal cavity of Aceh cattle. The morphological differences between Setaria digitata and Setaria labiatopapillosa were successfully discovered through LM and SEM studies.
Progress across ecological systems countering intergenerational transmission of intimate partner violence
Authors: Buchanan Fiona , Borgkvist Ashlee
Published: September 2023

With this article we question the universality of the popular truism that intimate partner violence (IPV) between adult partners is transmitted from generation to generation. We illustrate how the concept of ‘intergenerational transmission of IPV’ fails to capture the complex social processes that are likely to influence individuals who experience IPV as children and as they grow. Building on a feminist application of ecological systems theory, how multiple systems have evolved to differently influence children who grow up with IPV is considered. This approach offers understanding of perspectives that promote social change and the self-worth and positive agency of children who grow up with IPV. We offer a unique contribution by exploring ways intergenerational transmission of IPV is rebutted in the twenty-first century, and how change is facilitated so that children who grow up with IPV can achieve healthy relationships when supported by all levels of the ecological system.
Real-time in vivo ROS monitoring with luminescent nanoparticles reveals skin inflammation dynamics
Authors: Abdesselem M. , Pétri N. , Kuhner R. , Mousseau F. , Rouffiac V. , Gacoin T. , Laplace-Builhé C. , Alexandrou A. , Bouzigues C. I.
Published: September 2023

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are key regulators in numerous pathological contexts, including cancer or inflammation. Their role is complex, which justifies the need for methods enabling their quantitative and time-resolved monitoring in vivo, in the perspective to profile tissues of individual patients. However, current ROS detection methods do not provide these features. Here, we propose a new method based on the imaging of lanthanide-ion nanoparticles (GdVO4:Eu), whose photoluminescence is modulated by the surrounding ROS concentration. We monitored their luminescence after intradermic injection in a mouse ear submitted to an inflammation-inducing topical stimulus. Based on this approach, we quantified the ROS concentration after inflammation induction and identified a two-step kinetics of ROS production, which may be attributed to the response of resident immune cells and their further recruitment at the inflammation locus.
Millimeter field-of-view miniature two-photon microscopy for brain imaging in freely moving mice
Authors: Zhao Chunzhu , Zhu Yufei , Zhang Dong , Fu Qiang , Pan Mingjie , Wu Runlong , Wang Aimin , Cheng Heping
Published: September 2023

Development of miniature two-photon microscopy (m2PM) has made it possible to observe fine structure and activity of neurons in the brain of freely moving animals. However, the imaging field-of-view of existing m2PM is still significantly smaller than that of miniature single-photon microscopy. Here we report that, through the design of low-magnification objective, large field-of-view scan lens and small tilt angle microscanner, a 2.5-g m2PM achieved a field-of-view of 1000 × 788 µm2, comparable to that of a typical single-photon miniscope. We demonstrated its capability by imaging neurons, dendrites and spines in the millimeter field-of-view, and simultaneous recording calcium activities, through a gradient-index lens, of approximately 400 neurons in the dorsal hippocampal CA1 in a freely moving mouse. Integrated with a detachable 1.2-g fast z-scanning module, it enables a 1000 × 788 × 500 µm3 volumetric neuronal imaging in the cerebral cortex. Thus, millimeter FOV m2PM provides a powerful tool for deciphering neuronal population dynamics in experimental paradigms allowing for animal’s free movement.
Improved long pulse excitation infrared nondestructive testing evaluation
Authors: Miao Zhifei , Wu Dan , Gao Yuan , Wang Yifan
Published: September 2023

In this paper, an improved long-pulse excitation infrared nondestructive testing method is proposed, and a homogeneous pulse thermography (HPT) system is built. Based on the proposed new pulse excitation system, the problem of uneven heating in pulsed infrared non-destructive testing (NDT) has been effectively improved, and the signal-to-noise ratio of thermal images has been improved. Finally, the results of the experimental analysis and discussion show that the improved pulsed infrared NDT system greatly improves the defect detection rate and the reliability of the quantitative analysis of defect depth compared with the traditional pulsed detection system.
Multiwavelength camouflage metamaterials with adjustable emissivity
Authors: Gao Huixuan , Liang Yuzhang , Huang Yuhang , Huang Hui , Li Rui , Peng Wei
Published: September 2023

Metamaterials-based multispectral camouflage has attracted growing interest in most fields of military and aerospace due to its unprecedented emission adjustability covering an ultra-broadband spectral range. Conventional camouflage mainly concentrates on an individual spectral range, e. g. either of visible, mid-wavelength-infrared (MWIR) or long-wavelength-infrared (LWIR), which is especially incapable of self-adaptive thermal camouflage to the changing ambient environment. Here, we theoretically demonstrate a multispectral camouflage metamaterial consisting of a four-layer titanium/silicon/vanadium dioxide/ titanium (Ti/Si/VO2/Ti) nanostructure, where the background temperature-adaptive thermal camouflage is implemented by exploiting the switchable metal/dielectric state of the phase-changing material VO2 for regulating the infrared emissivity of the designed metamaterial, whilst visible color camouflage is also achieved by tuning thickness of middle Si layer to match the background’s appearance. It has been shown that the designed metamaterial with the dielectric state of VO2 enables thermal camouflage of high background temperature by increasing the thermal emission (average emissivity of 0.69/0.83 for MWIR/LWIR range), meanwhile, the metamaterial of the metallic state of VO2 for low background temperature thermal camouflage stemming from low emission (average emissivity of 0.29 for both MWIR/LWIR range) due to high infrared reflection. Furthermore, the designed metamaterial structural color is robust for a phase change switching. This proposed adaptive camouflage provides a potential strategy to broaden dynamical camouflage technology for further practical application in the fields of military and civilian.
Time-resolved photoluminescence analysis of ceramic Ce:GAGG scintillators
Authors: Park Chansun , Kim Sangsu , Melis Alima , Seo Jiwon , Cho Shinhaeng , Yeom Jung-Yeol
Published: September 2023

This paper introduces the characteristics and efficiency of post-treatment methods for enhancing the timing resolution of ceramic Ce:GAGG scintillators. The thermal annealing and surface treatments were included to analyze their impact on time-resolved photoluminescence (TRPL) and thermoluminescence (TL) characteristics. Optical properties were improved by suppressing nonradiative recombination due to the reduced surface defects, while heat-treatment removes traps as confirmed by TL measurements. TRPL decay characteristics revealed that samples treated with mechanical polishing followed by heat treatment exhibited the best scintillation performance, with a slow component of 272.3 ns. These findings will aid in developing techniques for improving the luminescence of other inorganic scintillators.
Simple and low-latency multipoint-to-point aggregation architecture using commercial optical transceivers for uplink fronthaul
Authors: Gao Wanchao , Zhong Linsheng , Dai Xiaoxiao , Cheng Mengfan , Deng Lei , Yang Qi , Liu Deming
Published: September 2023

The increasing demand of real-time applications poses a huge challenge to building next-generation radio access network (NG-RAN) with higher stability and lower system complexity. Parallel signal detection (PSD), which aggregates signals of different intermediate frequencies (IFs) on different wavelengths with a single photodiode (PD), becomes a promising candidate for uplink mobile fronthaul with the advantage of low-latency. However, high requirements on the transmitters inhibit the large-scale deployment of radio units (RU). In this paper, we propose an economical, low-latency, multipoint-to-point (MP2P) uplink fronthaul architecture capable of aggregating four end-users with commercial 25G-class optical modules and a single PD. With delta-sigma modulation (DSM), commercial off-the-shelf optical modules can replace analog transmitters in traditional systems. As a demonstration, we aggregated 4 × 380.16-MHz 5 G new radio (NR) orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) signals in an IF band with a fixed interval of 400 MHz over 20 km fiber with 4 users.
Optimal weak measurement scheme for chiral molecular detection based on photonic spin Hall effect
Authors: Tang Tingting , Shen Ke , Li Jie , Liang Xiao , Tang Yujie , Li Chaoyang , He Yu
Published: September 2023

In this paper, we propose a precision method to measure the chiroptical signal of Artemisinin solutions using the photonic spin Hall effect (PSHE) on the Ce:YIG-YIG-SiO2 structure as a probe. The effects of transmission distance, incident angles, applied magnetic fields of different directions, and beam waist of light on the weak measurement system are analytically investigated through simulations. It is found that decreasing the beam waist of the incident spot, increasing the incident angle, increasing the transmission distance, and adding a longitudinal magnetic field is conducive to enhancing the amplification transverse shift of PSHE, thus the measurement sensitivity is greatly improved. Based on the optimal weak measurement scheme, the detection limit for concentration measurement of artemisinin based on optical rotatory (OR) was reduced to 0.05 mg/ml. The measurement precision of the OR angle has been improved to 10−7 rad.
Deep learning enhanced achromatic imaging with a singlet flat lens
Authors: Hu Shanshan , Xiao Xingjian , Ye Xin , Yu Rongtao , Chu Yanhao , Chen Ji , Zhu Shining , Li Tao
Published: September 2023

Correction of chromatic aberration is an important issue in color imaging and display. However, realizing broadband achromatic imaging by a singlet lens with high comprehensive performance still remains challenging, though many achromatic flat lenses have been reported recently. Here, we propose a deep-learning-enhanced singlet planar imaging system, implemented by a 3 mm-diameter achromatic flat lens, to achieve relatively high-quality achromatic imaging in the visible. By utilizing a multi-scale convolutional neural network (CNN) imposed to an achromatic multi-level diffractive lens (AMDL), the white light imaging qualities are significantly improved in both indoor and outdoor scenarios. Our experiments are fulfilled via a large paired imaging dataset with respect to a 3 mm-diameter AMDL, which guaranteed with achromatism in a broad wavelength range (400-1100 nm) but a relative low efficiency (∼45%). After our CNN enhancement, the imaging qualities are improved by ∼2 dB, showing competitive achromatic and high-quality imaging with a singlet lens for practical applications.
Quantitative phase imaging based on motionless optical scanning holography
Authors: Yoneda Naru , Matoba Osamu , Saita Yusuke , Nomura Takanori
Published: September 2023

Optical scanning holography (OSH) can be applied to 3D fluorescent imaging. However, the optical setup for OSH is complicated due to the requirement of a phase shifter, a 2D mechanical scanner, and an interferometer. Although motionless optical scanning holography (MOSH) can overcome the problem, quantitative phase imaging (QPI) has not yet been realized because MOSH can only obtain incoherent holograms. If QPI in MOSH is realized, MOSH can be applied to various applications. In this Letter, MOSH-based QPI (MOSH-QPI) is proposed. In addition, a simple description of a coherent mode of OSH is presented. In the proof-of-principle experiment, the spatially divided phase-shifting technique is applied to reduce the number of measurements. The feasibility of MOSH-QPI is confirmed by measuring a phase distribution of a microlens array. MOSH-QPI is also applied to measure practical samples, and its results are compared with the experimental results of the conventional one using a Mach–Zehnder interferometer.
Pushing photon-pair generation rate in microresonators by Q factor manipulation
Authors: Chen Nuo , Wang Zijie , Wu Jingpeng , Li Hanghang , He Shiqi , Fan Zhuang , Fan Yunru , Zhang Xinliang , Zhou Qiang , Xu Jing
Published: September 2023

Photon pairs generated by employing spontaneous nonlinear effects in microresonators are critically essential for integrated optical quantum information technologies, such as quantum computation and quantum cryptography. Microresonators featuring high-quality (Q) factors can offer simple yet power-efficient means to generate photon pairs, thanks to the intracavity field enhancement. In microresonators, it is known that the photon-pair generation rate (PGR) is roughly proportional to the cubic power of the Q factor. However, the upper limit on PGR is also set by the Q factor: a higher Q factor brings a longer photon lifetime, which in turn leads to a lower repetition rate allowing for photon flow emitted from the microresonator, constrained by the Fourier-transform limit. Exceeding this limit will result in the overlap of photon wave packets in the time domain, thus degrading the quantum character of single-photon light beams. To push the limit of PGR in a single resonator, we propose a method by harnessing the resonance linewidth-manipulated microresonators to improve the maximum achievable photon repetition rate while keeping the power efficiency. The maximum achievable PGR and power efficiency are thus balanced by leveraging the combination of low and high-Q resonances.
A systematic review of clinical health conditions predicted by machine learning diagnostic and prognostic models trained or validated using real-world primary health care data
Authors: Abdulazeem Hebatullah , Whitelaw Sera , Schauberger Gunther , Klug Stefanie J.
Published: September 2023

With the advances in technology and data science, machine learning (ML) is being rapidly adopted by the health care sector. However, there is a lack of literature addressing the health conditions targeted by the ML prediction models within primary health care (PHC) to date. To fill this gap in knowledge, we conducted a systematic review following the PRISMA guidelines to identify health conditions targeted by ML in PHC. We searched the Cochrane Library, Web of Science, PubMed, Elsevier, BioRxiv, Association of Computing Machinery (ACM), and IEEE Xplore databases for studies published from January 1990 to January 2022. We included primary studies addressing ML diagnostic or prognostic predictive models that were supplied completely or partially by real-world PHC data. Studies selection, data extraction, and risk of bias assessment using the prediction model study risk of bias assessment tool were performed by two investigators. Health conditions were categorized according to international classification of diseases (ICD-10). Extracted data were analyzed quantitatively. We identified 106 studies investigating 42 health conditions. These studies included 207 ML prediction models supplied by the PHC data of 24.2 million participants from 19 countries. We found that 92.4% of the studies were retrospective and 77.3% of the studies reported diagnostic predictive ML models. A majority (76.4%) of all the studies were for models’ development without conducting external validation. Risk of bias assessment revealed that 90.8% of the studies were of high or unclear risk of bias. The most frequently reported health conditions were diabetes mellitus (19.8%) and Alzheimer’s disease (11.3%). Our study provides a summary on the presently available ML prediction models within PHC. We draw the attention of digital health policy makers, ML models developer, and health care professionals for more future interdisciplinary research collaboration in this regard.
Vitamin D deficiency and SARS‑CoV‑2 infection: A retrospective case–Control study with big-data analysis covering March 2020 to March 2021
Authors: Neira Álvarez Marta , Navarro Jiménez Gema , Anguita Sánchez Noemi , del Mar Bermejo Olano Mª , Queipo Rocio , Benavent Núñez María , Parralejo Jimenez Alejandro , López Yepes Guillermo , Sáez Nieto Carmen
Published: September 2023

Background

Vitamin D may have immunomodulatory functions, and might therefore play a role in the pathogenesis of acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection. However, no conclusive evidence exists regarding its impact on the prevalence of this infection, the associated course of disease, or prognosis.

Objective

To study the association between SARS-CoV-2 infection and vitamin D deficiency in patients attending a tertiary university hospital, and to examine the clinical course of infection and prognosis for these patients.

Methods

This non-interventional, retrospective study, which involved big-data analysis and employed artificial intelligence to capture data from free text in the electronic health records of patients diagnosed with SARS-CoV-2, was undertaken at a tertiary university hospital in Madrid, Spain, between March 2020 and March 2021. The variables recorded were vitamin D deficiency, sociodemographic and clinical characteristics, course of disease, and prognosis.

Results

Of the 143,157 patients analysed, 36,261 had SARS-CoV-2 infection (25.33%) during the study period, among whom 2,588 (7.14%) had a vitamin D deficiency. Among these latter patients, women (OR 1.45 [95%CI 1.33–1.57]), adults over 80 years of age (OR 2.63 [95%CI 2.38–2.91]), people living in nursing homes (OR 2.88 [95%CI 2.95–3.45]), and patients with walking dependence (OR 3.45 [95%CI 2.85–4.26]) appeared in higher proportion. After adjusting for confounding factors, a higher proportion of subjects with SARS-CoV-2 plus vitamin D deficiency required hospitalisation (OR 1.38 [95%CI 1.26–1.51]), and had a longer mean hospital stay (3.94 compared to 2.19 days in those with normal levels; P = 0.02).

Conclusion

A low serum 25(OH) vitamin D concentration in patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection is significantly associated with a greater risk of hospitalisation and a longer hospital stay. Among such patients, higher proportions of institutionalised and dependent people over 80 years of age were detected.
Use of sera cell free DNA (cfDNA) and exovesicle-DNA for the molecular diagnosis of chronic Chagas disease
Authors: Lozano Noelia , Samblas Mercedes Gomez , Calabuig Eva , Giménez Martí María José , Gómez Ruiz Maria Dolores , Arce José Miguel Sahuquillo , Sequera-Arquelladas Sergio , Moreno José Miguel Molina , Trelis M. , Osuna Antonio
Published: September 2023

Chagas disease, a neglected tropical disease, is now considered a worldwide health concern as a result of migratory movements from Central and South America to other regions that were considered free of the disease, and where the epidemiological risk is limited to transplacental transmission or blood or organ donations from infected persons. Parasite detection in chronically ill patients is restricted to serological tests that only determine infection by previous infection and not the presence of the parasite, especially in patients undergoing treatment evaluation or in newborns. We have evaluated the use of nucleic acids from both circulating exovesicles and cell-free DNA (cfDNA) from 50 samples twice randomly selected from a total of 448 serum samples from immunologically diagnosed patients in whom the presence of the parasite was confirmed by nested PCR on amplicons resulting from amplification with kinetoplastid DNA-specific primers 121F-122R. Six samples were randomly selected to quantify the limit of detection by qPCR in serum exovesicles. When the nucleic acids thus purified were assayed as a template and amplified with kinetoplastid DNA and nuclear satellite DNA primers, a 100% positivity rate was obtained for all positive samples assayed with kDNA-specific primers and 96% when SAT primers were used. However, isolation of cfDNA for Trypanosoma cruzi and amplification with SAT also showed 100% positivity. The results demonstrate that serum exovesicles contain DNA of mitochondrial and nuclear origin, which can be considered a mixed population of exovesicles of parasitic origin. The results obtained with serum samples prove that both cfDNA and Exovesicle DNA can be used to confirm parasitaemia in chronically ill patients or in samples where it is necessary to demonstrate the active presence of the parasite. The results confirm for the first time the existence of exovesicles of mitochondrial origin of the parasite in the serum of those affected by Chagas disease.
Phenotypic and genotypic drug susceptibility patterns of Mycobacterium tuberculosis isolates from pulmonary tuberculosis patients in Central and Southern Ethiopia
Authors: Tilahun Melaku , Wegayehu Teklu , Wondale Biniam , Gebresilase Tewdros Tariku , Gebreyohannes Tesfaye , Tekola Abraham , Alemu Mekdes , Neway Sebsib , Adnew Bethlehem , Nassir Maeruf Fetu , Kassahun Yonas , Aseffa Abraham , Bobosha Kidist
Published: September 2023

Introduction

The persistence of tuberculosis (TB) infection in some patients after treatment has highlighted the importance of drug susceptibility testing (DST). This study aimed to determine the drug susceptibility patterns of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M. tuberculosis) isolates from pulmonary TB (PTB) patients in Central and Southern Ethiopia.

Methods

A health institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted between July 2021 and April 2022. Sputum samples were collected from newly diagnosed smear microscopy and/or Xpert MTB/RIF-positive PTB patients. The samples were processed and cultivated in Lowenstein-Jensen (LJ) pyruvate and glycerol medium. M. tuberculosis isolates were identified using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) based region of difference 9 (RD9) deletion typing. Phenotypic DST patterns of the isolates were characterized using the BACTEC MGIT™ 960 instrument with SIRE kit. Isoniazid (INH) and Rifampicin (RIF) resistant M. tuberculosis isolates were identified using the GenoType® MTBDRplus assay.

Results

Sputum samples were collected from 350 PTB patients, 315 (90%) of which were culture-positive, and phenotypic and genotypic DST were determined for 266 and 261 isolates, respectively. Due to invalid results and missing data, 6% (16/266) of the isolates were excluded, while 94% (250/266) were included in the paired analysis. According to the findings, 14.4% (36/250) of the isolates tested positive for resistance to at least one anti-TB drug. Gene mutations were observed only in the rpoB and katG gene loci, indicating RIF and high-level INH resistance. The GenoType® MTBDRplus assay has a sensitivity of 42% and a specificity of 100% in detecting INH-resistant M. tuberculosis isolates, with a kappa value of 0.56 (95%CI: 0.36–0.76) compared to the BACTEC MGIT™ DST. The overall discordance between the two methods was 5.6% (14/250) for INH alone and 0% for RIF resistance and MDR-TB (resistance to both INH and RIF) detection.

Conclusion

This study reveals a higher prevalence of phenotypic and genotypic discordant INH-resistant M. tuberculosis isolates in the study area. The use of whole-genome sequencing (WGS) is essential for gaining a comprehensive understanding of these discrepancies within INH-resistant M. tuberculosis strains.
Tight bounds for the median of a gamma distribution
Authors: Lyon Richard F.
Published: September 2023

The median of a standard gamma distribution, as a function of its shape parameterk, has no known representation in terms of elementary functions. In this work we prove the tightest upper and lower bounds of the form 2−1/k(A+k): an upper bound withA=e−γ(withγbeing the Euler–Mascheroni constant) and a lower bound withA=log(2)-13. These bounds are valid over the entire domain ofk> 0, staying between 48 and 55 percentile. We derive and prove several other new tight bounds in support of the proofs.
Population pharmacokinetics of voriconazole and the role of CYP2C19 genotype on treatment optimization in pediatric patients
Authors: Hu Lin , Huang Shiqiong , Huang Qi , Huang Juanjuan , Feng Zeying , He Gefei
Published: September 2023

The aim of this study was to evaluate factors that impact on voriconazole (VRC) population pharmacokinetic (PPK) parameters and explore the optimal dosing regimen for different CYP2C19 genotypes in Chinese paediatric patients. PPK analysis was used to identify the factors contributing to the variability in VRC plasma trough concentrations. A total of 210 VRC trough concentrations from 91 paediatric patients were included in the study. The median VRC trough concentration was 1.23 mg/L (range, 0.02 to 8.58 mg/L). At the measurement of all the trough concentrations, the target range (1.0~5.5 mg/L) was achieved in 52.9% of the patients, while subtherapeutic and supratherapeutic concentrations were obtained in 40.9% and 6.2% of patients, respectively. VRC trough concentrations were adjusted for dose (Ctrough/D), with normal metabolizers (NMs) and intermediate metabolizers (IMs) having significantly lower levels than poor metabolizers (PMs) (PN-P < 0.001, PI-P = 0.039). A one-compartment model with first-order absorption and elimination was suitable to describe the VRC pharmacokinetic characteristics. The final model of VRC PPK analysis contained CYP2C19 phenotype as a significant covariate for clearance. Dose simulations suggested that a maintenance dose of 9 mg/kg orally or 8 mg/kg intravenously twice daily was appropriate for NMs to achieve the target concentration. A maintenance dose of 9 mg/kg orally or 5 mg/kg intravenously twice daily was appropriate for IMs. Meanwhile, PMs could use lower maintenance dose and an oral dose of 6 mg/kg twice daily or an intravenous dose of 5mg/kg twice daily was appropriate. To increase the probability of achieving the therapeutic range and improving efficacy, CYP2C19 phenotype can be used to predict VRC trough concentrations and guide dose adjustments in Chinese pediatric patients.
Parental knowledge, attitudes, and practices towards childhood fever among South-East and East Asian parents: A literature review
Authors: Ng Hoi Lam , Li Huiyuan , Jin Xiaohuan , Wong Cho Lee
Published: September 2023

Aim

The aim of this literature review was to identify, summarize, and critically appraise available empirical articles on the knowledge, attitudes, and practices towards childhood fever management among South-East and East Asian parents.

Design

A literature review following PRISMA.

Methods

Articles were limited to those available in the English language. Articles had to be empirical studies that used a qualitative or quantitative research design with full-text available; focus on parental knowledge, attitudes, and practices towards fever; and be published in South-East and East Asia. Searches were conducted with CINAHL, PubMed and Scopus from inception to June 2022, and eleven articles were included after removing duplicates and excluding irrelevant articles.

Results

Narrative synthesis was conducted according to four themes: source of fever information, knowledge level, attitudes, and practices towards childhood fever. Parents showed different fever knowledge needs and various information-seeking behaviors. A low level of fever knowledge was revealed in terms of temperature, fever causes, potential harms and influencing factors. South-East and East Asian parents mainly reported anxiety, concerns and fever phobia. Fever assessment methods and fever management strategies varied based on parents’ cultural background and beliefs.

Conclusions

The findings of this review highlight that inadequacy of fever knowledge and negative attitudes towards childhood fever exist in South-East and East Asian parents. Parents have diverse cultural practices during their children’s febrile episodes. However, some of them conflict with current medical guidelines, as they prioritize fever and body temperature reduction. This raises questions about their effectiveness and safety. Although some of them are medically discouraged, there are others that have been proven beneficial for the symptomatic relief of childhood fever. The results indicate an urgent need to develop a cultural-sensitive educational intervention for childhood fever management among South-East and East Asian parents. Unified educational interventions are needed to address parental concerns and fever-related knowledge needs.
Optimizing the internal phase reference to shape the output of a multimode optical fiber
Authors: Collard Liam , Piscopo Linda , Pisano Filippo , Zheng Di , De Vittorio Massimo , Pisanello Ferruccio
Published: September 2023

Pre-shaping light to achieve desired amplitude distributions at the tip of a multimode fiber (MMF) has emerged as a powerful method allowing a wide range of imaging techniques to be implemented at the distal facet. Such techniques rely on measuring the transmission matrix of the optically turbid waveguide which scrambles the coherent input light into an effectively random speckle pattern. Typically, this is done by measuring the interferogram between the output speckle and a reference beam. In recent years, an optical setup where the reference beam passes through the MMF has become an attractive configuration because of the high interferometric stability of the common optical path. However, the merits and drawbacks of an internal reference beam remain controversial. The measurement of the transmission matrix is known to depend on the choice of internal reference and has been reported to result in “blind spots” due to phase singularities of the reference beam. Here, we describe how the focussing efficiency of the calibration can be increased by several percent by optimising the choice of internal reference beam.
Utilization of digital tools to enhance COVID-19 and tuberculosis testing and linkage to care: A cross-sectional evaluation study among Bodaboda motorbike riders in the Nairobi Metropolis, Kenya
Authors: Karanja Simon , Aduda Jane , Thuo Reuben , Wamunyokoli Fred , Oyier Philip , Kikuvi Gideon , Kissinger Henry , Gachohi John , Mburugu Patrick , Kamau David , Matheri Joseph , Mwelu Susan , Machua Joseph , Amoth Patrick , Mariga Denver , Were Ian , Mohamed Musa , Kimuyu Judith , Saigilu Samson , Wangeci Rose , Mubadi Kevin , Ndung’u Joseph , Suleiman Khairunisa , Kadam Rigveda , Akugizibwe Paula
Published: September 2023

Kenya has registered over 300,000 cases of COVID-19 and is a high-burden tuberculosis country. Tuberculosis diagnosis was significantly disrupted by the pandemic. Access to timely diagnosis, which is key to effective management of tuberculosis and COVID-19, can be expanded and made more efficient through integrated screening. Decentralized testing at community level further increases access, especially for underserved populations, and requires robust systems for data and process management. This study delivered integrated COVID-19 and tuberculosis testing to commercial motorbike (Bodaboda) riders, a population at increased risk of both diseases with limited access to services, in four counties: Nairobi, Kiambu, Machakos and Kajiado. Testing sheds were established where riders congregate, with demand creation carried out by the Bodaboda association. Integrated symptom screening for tuberculosis and COVID-19 was conducted through a digital questionnaire which automatically flagged participants who should be tested for either, or both, diseases. Rapid antigen-detecting tests (Ag-RDTs) for COVID-19 were conducted onsite, while sputum samples were collected and transported to laboratories for tuberculosis diagnosis. End-to-end patient data were captured using digital tools. 5663 participants enrolled in the study, 4946 of whom were tested for COVID-19. Ag-RDT positivity rate was 1% but fluctuated widely across counties in line with broader regional trends. Among a subset tested by PCR, positivity was greater in individuals flagged as high risk by the digital tool (8% compared with 4% overall). Of 355 participants tested for tuberculosis, 7 were positive, with the resulting prevalence rate higher than the national average. Over 40% of riders had elevated blood pressure or abnormal sugar levels. The digital tool successfully captured complete end-to-end data for 95% of all participants. This study revealed high rates of undetected disease among Bodaboda riders and demonstrated that integrated diagnosis can be delivered effectively in communities, with the support of digital tools, to maximize access.
Study on dynamic response characteristics of impact of freeze-thaw saturated marble in plateau area
Authors: Huang Wuhu , Yin Jiandong , Li Xianglong , Hou Defeng , Wang Jianguo , Zhang Zhiping , Zuo Ting , Jian Ximing , Li Wendong , Yang Yang
Published: September 2023

To study the effects that the perennial freeze–thaw environment exerts on the dynamic mechanical properties of marble, which characterizes the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, impact tests were conducted, and saturated marble was utilized; thus, we analyzed the effect of different loading rates on its dynamic compressive strength, fragmentation pattern, and energy-absorbing density. The results indicate the following: (1) When 42.02s-1≤ε˙≤ 49.20s-1, the degree of fragmentation and the fractal dimension of saturated state marble is greater than that of the dry state marble; whenε˙<42.02s-1orε˙>49.20s-1, the dry state marble exhibits greater fragmentation than the saturated marble; (2) When the saturated state marble is subjected to a specific fractal dimension, the energy-absorbing density of the marble that characterizes the saturated state is great compared with the dry state, and when the fractal dimension increases, the energy-absorbing densities that characterize the two states gradually converge. (3) The effect of water on the mechanical properties of marble has an obvious rate dependence, showing a weakening effect at low strain rates and a strengthening effect at high strain rates. In regard to the analysis pertaining to the dynamic fracture mechanism of marble under the influence of the freeze-thaw environment that characterizes the plateau, the aforementioned experimental results exhibit considerable significance.
TGF-β1 activates neutrophil signaling and gene expression but not migration
Authors: Hein Lauren E. , SenGupta Shuvasree , Gunasekaran Gaurie , Johnson Craig N. , Parent Carole A.
Published: September 2023

Tumor-associated neutrophils are found in many types of cancer and are often reported to contribute to negative outcomes. The presence of transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) in the tumor microenvironment reportedly contributes to the skewing of neutrophils to a more pro-tumor phenotype. The effects of TGF-β on neutrophil signaling and migration are, however, unclear. We sought to characterize TGF-β signaling in both primary human neutrophils and the neutrophil-like cell line HL-60 and determine whether it directly induces neutrophil migration. We found that TGF-β1 does not induce neutrophil chemotaxis in transwell or underagarose migration assays. TGF-β1 does activate canonical signaling through SMAD3 and noncanonical signaling through ERK1/2 in neutrophils in a time- and dose-dependent manner. Additionally, TGF-β1 present in the tumor-conditioned media (TCM) of invasive breast cancer cells results in SMAD3 activation. We discovered that TCM induces neutrophils to secrete leukotriene B4 (LTB4), which is a lipid mediator important for amplifying the range of neutrophil recruitment. However, TGF-β1 alone does not induce secretion of LTB4. RNA-sequencing revealed that TGF-β1 and TCM alter gene expression in HL-60 cells, including the mRNA levels of the pro-tumor oncostatin M (OSM) and vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA). These new insights into the role and impact of TGF-β1 on neutrophil signaling, migration, and gene expression have significant implications in the understanding of the changes in neutrophils that occur in the tumor microenvironment.
Caregivers’ use of herbal and conventional medicine to treat children with sickle cell disease at Jinja Regional Referral Hospital, Eastern Uganda: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Apolot Consiliate , Obakiro Samuel Baker , Mukunya David , Olupot-Olupot Peter , Matovu Joseph K. B.
Published: September 2023

Background

Evidence suggests use of herbal and conventional medicines in the treatment of Sickle Cell Disease (SCD). We examined factors associated with caregivers’ use of combined herbal and conventional medicine to treat children with SCD.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted at Jinja Regional Referral Hospital between January and March 2022. Caregivers of children with SCD aged 1 to 18 years attending the Sickle Cell Clinic were interviewed using structured questionnaires. We collected data on caregivers’ socio-demographic characteristics, perceptions of and intentions to use either or both therapies, self-reported use of either or both therapies and community and health-related factors. A multivariable logistic regression model was computed to assess the factors independently associated with caregivers’ use of combined therapy, using Stata version 15.0.

Results

372 caregivers were interviewed. On average, respondents were aged 34.3 years (Standard Deviation [SD]: ±9.8 years). 37% (n = 138) of the caregivers reported the use of both herbal and conventional medicine, 58.3% (n = 217) reported use of only conventional medicine, while 4.6% (n = 17) reported use of herbal medicine only. Higher odds of using combination therapy were found in caregivers aged 60+ years (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 11.8; 95% CI: 1.2, 115.2), those with lower secondary education (AOR = 6.2; 95% CI: 1.5, 26.0), those who believed in the safety of herbal medicine (AOR = 3.3; 95% CI: 1.5, 7.6) and those who thought that use of both therapies were safe (AOR = 7.7; 95% CI: 3.5, 17.0).

Conclusion

More than one-third of the caregivers reported use of combined herbal and conventional medicine, most of whom were older (>60%) and had lower secondary education. There is need for targeted health promotion to educate caregivers about the dangers of using both herbal and conventional medicines in treating children with SCD.
Comprehensive tool for a phase compensation reconstruction method in digital holographic microscopy operating in non-telecentric regime
Authors: Bogue-Jimenez Brian , Trujillo Carlos , Doblas Ana
Published: September 2023

Quantitative phase imaging (QPI) via Digital Holographic microscopy (DHM) has been widely applied in material and biological applications. The performance of DHM technologies relies heavily on computational reconstruction methods to provide accurate phase measurements. Among the optical configuration of the imaging system in DHM, imaging systems operating in a non-telecentric regime are the most common ones. Nonetheless, the spherical wavefront introduced by the non-telecentric DHM system must be compensated to provide undistorted phase measurements. The proposed reconstruction approach is based on previous work from Kemper’s group. Here, we have reformulated the problem, reducing the number of required parameters needed for reconstructing phase images to the sensor pixel size and source wavelength. The developed computational algorithm can be divided into six main steps. In the first step, the selection of the +1-diffraction order in the hologram spectrum. The interference angle is obtained from the selected +1 order. Secondly, the curvature of the spherical wavefront distorting the sample’s phase map is estimated by analyzing the size of the selected +1 order in the hologram’s spectrum. The third and fourth steps are the spatial filtering of the +1 order and the compensation of the interference angle. The next step involves the estimation of the center of the spherical wavefront. An optional final optimization step has been included to fine-tune the estimated parameters and provide fully compensated phase images. Because the proper implementation of a framework is critical to achieve successful results, we have explicitly described the steps, including functions and toolboxes, required for reconstructing phase images without distortions. As a result, we have provided open-access codes and a user interface tool with minimum user input to reconstruct holograms recorded in a non-telecentric DHM system.