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Beyond visual perception, light has non-image-forming effects mediated by melanopsin-expressing, intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs). The present study first used multielectrode array recordings to show that in a diurnal rodent, Nile grass rats (Arvicanthis niloticus), ipRGCs generate rod/cone-driven and melanopsin-based photoresponses that stably encode irradiance. Subsequently, two ipRGC-mediated non-image-forming effects, namely entrainment of daily rhythms and light-induced arousal, were examined. Animals were first housed under a 12:12 h light/dark cycle (lights-on at 0600 h) with the light phase generated by a low-irradiance fluorescent light (F12), a daylight spectrum (D65) stimulating all photoreceptors, or a narrowband 480 nm spectrum (480) that maximized melanopsin stimulation and minimized S-cone stimulation (λmax 360 nm) compared to D65. Daily rhythms of locomotor activities showed onset and offset closer to lights-on and lights-off, respectively, in D65 and 480 than in F12, and higher day/night activity ratio under D65 versus 480 and F12, suggesting the importance of S-cone stimulation. To assess light-induced arousal, 3-h light exposures using 4 spectra that stimulated melanopsin equally but S-cones differentially were superimposed on F12 background lighting: D65, 480, 480 + 365 (narrowband 365 nm), and D65 - 365. Compared to the F12-only condition, all four pulses increased in-cage activity and promoted wakefulness, with 480 + 365 having the greatest and longest-lasting wakefulness-promoting effects, again indicating the importance of stimulating S-cones as well as melanopsin. These findings provide insights into the temporal dynamics of photoreceptor contributions to non-image-forming photoresponses in a diurnal rodent that may help guide future studies of lighting environments and phototherapy protocols that promote human health and productivity.

IntroductionGhana has made significant progress in reducing the transmission rate of lymphatic filariasis. However, very little progress has been made in the provision of morbidity management and disability prevention (MMDP) services, which is one of the key requirements for certification of elimination as a disease of public health importance. This study was designed to compare pre-post- intervention to determine the feasibility and effectiveness of a cascade training model for health worker capacity strengthening in Ghana, using the WHO recommended minimum intervention package to improve access to MMDP services.MethodsThis study used a quasi-experimental design to assess the impact of evidence-based training of patients with lymphatic filariasis (LF) in the Upper West region of Ghana. All lymphedema patients who were available at the time of data collection participated in the study before and after the training.ResultsThe mean age of respondents was 54.67 years (SD ± 16.89 years) at baseline and 54.70 years (SD ± 15.80 years) at evaluation. The majority (i.e., 76.30% at baseline and 80.50% at evaluation) of the respondents were female. Most of the respondents had not completed primary school (83.82% at baseline and 85.40% at evaluation). We found an improvement in the quality of life among LF patients, that is, the proportion of respondents who reported having a high quality of life increased from 2.9% at baseline to 20.12% at evaluation (p < 0.001). The lymphedema management practice of “hygiene/washing and drying of affected limb” was reported by 73.17% of respondents at evaluation compared with only 32.95% of respondents at baseline (p < 0.001). The acute attack management technique of “cooling the affected limb in cool water/cold compress” was reported by 70.15% of respondents at evaluation compared with 23.70% of respondents at baseline (p < 0.001).ConclusionThe research confirmed that LF-related perceptions remained generally the same at baseline and evaluation among community members. The implementation of the LF-related morbidity management (MMDP) project has led to a significant improvement in the morbidity management practices among patients at evaluation compared with baseline. Our findings also showed that self-care led to an improvement in patients’ quality of life. This justifies the need for investment in morbidity management interventions in endemic communities.

Abstract Background Prompt diagnosis and treatment of malaria prevents a mild case from developing into severe disease and death. Unfortunately, parasitological testing of febrile children is greater in the public and formal private sector than in the informal private sector where many patients with malaria-like symptoms first seek treatment. This study was aimed at improving implementation of the T3 policy among OTCMS using some interventions that could be scaled-up easily at the national level. Methods Interventions were evaluated using a two-arm, cluster randomized trial across 8 rural communities (4 clusters per arm), in two adjacent districts of Ghana. A total of 7 OTCMS in the intervention arm and 5 OTCMS in the control arm in the selected communities participated in the study. Five interventions were implemented in the intervention arm only. These were acquisition of subsidized malaria rapid diagnostic test (RDT) kits, training of OTCMS, supportive visits to OTCMS, community sensitization on malaria, and introduction of malaria surveillance tool. The primary outcome was the proportion of children under 10 years with fever or suspected to have malaria visiting OTCMS and getting tested (using RDT) before treatment. Secondary outcomes included OTCMS adherence to national malaria treatment guidelines and the recommended RDT retail price. Outcomes were measured using mystery client (an adult who pretends to be a real patient) surveys supplemented by a household survey. Proportions were compared using chi-square test or Fisher exact test. Results Following deployment of interventions, mystery client survey showed that OTCMS’ adherence to malaria protocol in the intervention arm increased significantly (p

Although the LiCoO2 (LCO) cathode material has been widely used in commercial lithium ion batteries (LIB) and shows high stability, LIB's improvements have several challenges that still need to be overcome. In this paper, we have studied the in-operando structural properties of LCO within battery cells using Bragg Coherent X-ray Diffraction Imaging to identify ways to optimise the LCO batteries' cycling. We have successfully reconstructed the X-ray scattering phase variation (a fingerprint of atomic displacement) within a ≈ (1.6 × 1.4 × 1.3) μm3 LCO nanocrystal across a charge/discharge cycle. Reconstructions indicate strained domains forming, expanding, and fragmenting near the surface of the nanocrystal during charging, with a determined maximum relative lattice displacements of 0.467 Å. While discharging, all domains replicate in reverse the effects observed from the charging states, but with a lower maximum relative lattice displacements of 0.226 Å. These findings show the inefficiency-increasing domain dynamics within LCO lattices during cycling. Although lithium cobalt(III) oxide (LCO) is a widely used and highly stable lithium-ion battery material, several challenges still need to be overcome. Here, the authors use in-operando Bragg Coherent X-ray Diffraction Imaging to visualize the structural properties of LCO in battery cells and identify inefficiency-increasing domain dynamics during cycling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With increasing medical knowledge, procedural, and diagnostic skills to learn, it is vital for educators to make the limited amount of teaching time available to students effective and efficient. Generative retrieval is an effective and efficient learning tool, improving long-term retention through the practice of retrieval from memory. Forty medical students were randomized to learn normal cardiovascular anatomy using transthoracic echocardiography video clips in a generative retrieval (GR) or standard practice (SP) group. GR participants were required to verbally identify each unlabeled cardiovascular structure after viewing the video. After answering, participants viewed the correctly labeled video. SP participants viewed the same video clips labeled with the correct cardiovascular structure for the same amount of total time without verbally generating an answer. All participants were tested for intermediate (1-wk), late (1-mo), and long-term (6- to 9-mo) retention of cardiovascular anatomy. Additionally, a three-question survey was incorporated to assess perceptions of the learning method. There was no difference in pretest scores. The GR group demonstrated a trend toward improvement in recall at 1 wk [GR 74.3 (SD 12.3); SP 65.4 (SD 16.7); P 0.10] and 1 mo [GR 69.9 (SD15.6); SP 64.3 (SD 15.4);P 0.33]. At the 6- to 9-mo time point, there was a statistically significant difference in scores [GR 74.3 (SD 9.9); SP 65.0 (SD 14.1); P 0.042]. At nearly every time point, learners had a statistically significantly higher perception of effectiveness, enjoyment, and satisfaction with GR. In addition to improved recall, GR is associated with increased perceptions of effectiveness, enjoyment, and satisfaction, which may lead to increased engagement, time spent studying, and improved retention.

Abstract Background The World Health Organization initiated test, treat, and track (T3) malaria strategy to support malaria-endemic countries in their efforts to achieve universal coverage with diagnostic testing, antimalarial treatment, and strengthening surveillance systems. Unfortunately, T3 is not adopted by over-the-counter medicine sellers (OTCMS) where many patients with malaria-like symptoms first seek treatment. Sub-Saharan African countries are considering introducing and scaling up RDTs in these outlets to reduce malaria burden. In this context, this study is aimed at improving implementation of the T3 among OTCMS using a number of intervention tools that could be scaled-up easily at the national level. Methods/design The interventions will be evaluated using a two-arm, cluster randomized trial across 8 rural communities (4 clusters per arm), in two adjacent districts (Fanteakwa North and Fanteakwa South districts) of Ghana. A total of 8 OTCMS in the intervention arm and 5 OTCMS in the control arm in the selected communities will participate in the study. In the intervention arm only, subsidized malaria rapid diagnostic test (mRDT) kits will be introduced after the OTCMS have been trained on how to use the kit appropriately. Supervision, technical assistance, feedbacks, and collection of data will be provided on a regular basis at the participating medicine stores. The primary outcome is the proportion of children under 10 years with fever or suspected to have malaria visiting OTCMS and tested (using mRDT) before treatment. Secondary outcomes will include adherence to national malaria treatment guidelines and recommended mRDT retail price. Outcomes will be measured using mainly a household survey supplemented by mystery client survey and a surveillance register on malaria tests conducted by the OTCMS during patient consultations. Data collected will be double entered and verified using Microsoft Access 2010 (Microsoft Inc., Redmond, Washington) and analyzed using STATA version 11.0. Discussion The trial will provide evidence on the combined effectiveness of provider and community interventions in improving adherence to the T3 initiative among OTCMS in rural Ghana. Ethical clearance NMIMR-IRB CPN 086/18-19 Trial registration ISRCTN registry ISRCTN77836926 . Registered on 4 November 2019.

Background Mass test, treat and track (MTTT) of malaria is ongoing in the Pakro sub district of Ghana. In the delivery of MTTT of malaria, community health volunteers are trained to routinely provide this service through a door-to-door strategy. Following the report of the first cases of COVID-19 in Ghana, we conducted this study to explore the effects of the pandemic on the implementation of the MTTT of malaria intervention. Methods Using qualitative methodology, we conducted ten focus groups discussions (FGDs) in eight communities: eight with community members (N = 49); one with health workers (N = 6), and one with MTTT of malaria volunteers. In addition, two in-depth interviews (IDI) were conducted, one with health worker and another with a health manager. All interviews were recorded, translated into English during transcription and analysed using QSR NVivo 12. Thematic content analysis was used in this study. Results The findings of the study showed an increase in the number of people reporting with complications of malaria in health facilities in the study communities during the COVID-19 period. Some participants were of the view that COVID-19 rumours and misinformation could largely be responsible for the low coverage and uptake of the MTTT of malaria intervention. To sustain the uptake of the MTTT intervention, community engagement strategies were employed to identify and respond to these rumours. Also, incentive schemes were introduced to encourage parents and children to participate in the MTTT intervention during this period of COVID-19. Conclusion Findings suggest that the COVID-19 pandemic has adversely affected the provision and uptake of malaria prevention and treatment services, especially the MTTT of malaria being implemented at the community level. These observations underscore the need to find innovative ways to address the challenges encountered in providing essential services during public health emergencies.

Abstract Background Global efforts to scale-up malaria control interventions are gaining steam. These include the use of Long-Lasting Insecticide Nets, Indoor Residual Spraying, Intermittent Preventive Treatment and Test, Treat and Track. Despite these, the drive for malaria elimination is far from being realistic in endemic communities in Africa. This is partly due to the fact that asymptomatic parasite carriage, not specifically targeted by most interventions, remains the bedrock that fuels transmission. This has led to mass testing, treatment and tracking (MTTT) as an alternative strategy to target asymptomatic individuals. We report the impact of MTTT on the prevalence of asymptomatic malaria parasitaemia over a one-year period in Ghana, hypothesizing that implementing MTTT could reduce the rate of asymptomatic parasitaemia. Methods A population of about 5000 individuals in seven communities in the Pakro sub-district of Ghana participated in this study. A register was developed for each community following a census. MTTT engaged trained community-based health volunteers who conducted house-to-house testing using RDTs every 4 months and treated positive cases with Artemisinin–based Combination Therapy. Between interventions, community-based management of malaria was implemented for symptomatic cases. Results MTTT Coverage was 98.8% in July 2017 and 79.3% in July 2018. Of those tested, asymptomatic infection with malaria parasites reduced from 36.3% (1795/4941) in July 2017 to 32.9% (1303/3966) in July 2018 (p = 0.001). Prevalence of asymptomatic parasitaemia among children under 15 years declined from 52.6% (1043/1984) in July 2017 to 47.5% (820/1728) in July 2018 (p = 0.002). Implementing MTTT significantly reduced asymptomatic parasitaemia by 24% from July 2017 to July 2018 after adjusting for age, ITN use and axillary temperature (OR = 0.76, CI = 0.67, 0.85 p ≤ 0.001). Conclusion This study has demonstrated that implementing MTTT is feasible and could reduce the prevalence of asymptomatic malaria parasitaemia in children under 15 years of age. Furthermore, the use of community-based health volunteers could ensure high coverage at lower cost of implementation. Trial registration NCT04167566, Date 14/11/2019. Retrospective registration.

Abstract Background Mass and continuous distribution channels have significantly increased access to insecticide-treated nets (ITNs) in Ghana since 2000. Despite these gains, a large gap remains between ITN access and use. Methods A qualitative research study was carried out to explore the individual and contextual factors influencing ITN use among those with access in three sites in Ghana. Eighteen focus group discussions, and free listing and ranking activities were carried out with 174 participants; seven of those participants were selected for in-depth case study. Focus group discussions and case study interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analysed thematically. Results ITN use, as described by study participants, was not binary; it varied throughout the night, across seasons, and over time. Heat was the most commonly cited barrier to consistent ITN use and contributed to low reported ITN use during the dry season. Barriers to ITN use throughout the year included skin irritation; lack of airflow in the sleeping space; and, in some cases, a lack of information on the connection between the use of ITNs and malaria prevention. Falling ill or losing a loved one to malaria was the most powerful motivator for consistent ITN use. Participants also discussed developing a habit of ITN use and the economic benefit of prevention over treatment as facilitating factors. Participants reported gender differences in ITN use, noting that men were more likely than women and children to stay outdoors late at night and more likely to sleep outdoors without an ITN. Conclusion The study results suggest the greatest gains in ITN use among those with access could be made by promoting consistent use throughout the year among occasional and seasonal users. Opportunities for improving communication messages, such as increasing the time ITNs are aired before first use, as well as structural approaches to enhance the usability of ITNs in challenging contexts, such as promoting solutions for outdoor ITN use, were identified from this work. The information from this study can be used to inform social and behaviour change messaging and innovative approaches to closing the ITN use gap in Ghana.

Background: Malaria remains a serious threat to children under 15 years of age in sub-Sahara Africa. Mass testing, treatment and tracking (MTTT) of malaria has been reported to reduce parasite load significantly. However, the impact of MTTT on the prevalence of febrile illnesses in children under 15 is not yet clear. This study explores the impact of MTTT complemented by prompt home-based management of malaria on febrile illnesses and their treatment in children under 15 years old. Methods: A cohort of 460 children under 15 years were recruited from the Pakro subdistrict in Ghana during a community-wide implementation of a quarterly MTTT intervention. The MTTT implementation involved testing all household members for malaria using RDTs, and positive cases were treated with Artemisinin-based combination therapy (ACT). Febrile illnesses among this cohort in the two weeks prior to the prevalence survey at baseline and endline were recorded to constitute date for analysis. Results: The prevalence of febrile illnesses, such chills, convulsion, fever, diarrhoea, headache, vomit, cough/rashes or stomachache, etc., were recorded). Asymptomatic parasitaemia prevalence at baseline was 53.3%, which dropped to 44.1% at evaluation. An overall decrease in the parasitaemia prevalence of 33.0% (OR = 0.67, CI = 0.50, 0.89) was observed at evaluation compared to baseline after adjusting for age, ITN use and temperature. A 67% decrease in severe anaemia cases (Hb < 7) was observed at evaluation. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that implementing MTTT complemented by home-based timely management of malaria does not only reduce febrile illnesses and for that matter malaria prevalence, but could also reduce severe anaemia in children under 15 years old.

Background: Ghana joined the Global Programme to Eliminate Lymphatic Filariasis (GPELF), established in the year 2000, with the aim of eliminating the disease as a public health problem through annual mass treatment of entire endemic populations. Since 2001, the country has implemented mass drug administration (MDA) in endemic districts, with great reductions in the population at risk for infection. However, in many districts, the elimination programme is faced with the presence of hotspots, which may be due in part to individuals not taking part in MDA (either intentionally or unintentionally) who may serve as reservoirs to sustain transmission. This paper compares the LF-related perceptions among individuals who regularly take the MDA drugs and those who seldom or never take part in the MDA in the Ahanta West Municipality of Ghana to determine community acceptable ways to implement an intervention aimed to track, engage, and treat individuals who regularly miss MDA or to test individuals who intentionally refuse MDA and treat them if positive for LF. Methods: This was a mixed method study employing questionnaire surveys and focus group discussions (FDG) for data collection. Survey participants were randomly selected from the 2019 treatment register to stratify respondents into treated and non-treated groups. FGD participants were selected purposively such that there are at least two non-treated persons in each discussion session. Results: Over 90% of the respondents were aware of the disease. Poor hygiene/dirty environment was wrongly reported by most respondents (76.8%) as the causes. MDA awareness was very high among both treated (96.9%) and non-treated (98.6%) groups. A low sense of vulnerability to LF infection was evident by a reduction in the number of people presenting clinical manifestations of the disease in communities. Slightly more, 65 (29.0%) of the non-treated group compared to the 42 (19.4%) treated group reported ever experiencing adverse effects of the MDA drugs. Barriers to MDA uptake reported in both groups were poor planning and implementation of the MDA, lack of commitments on the part of drug distributors, and adverse drug reactions. About 51% of the non-treated group reported never taking the drugs even once in the last five years, while 61% among the treated group took the MDA drug consistently in the past five years. Respondents in both groups believed that, when engaged properly, most non-treated persons will accept to take the drug but insisted community drug distributors (CDDs) must be trained to effectively engage people and have time for those they will be engaging in dialogue. The chiefs emerged as the most influential people who can influence people to take MDA drugs. Conclusions: The reduction in risk perception among respondents, adverse reactions and the timing of MDA activities may be influencing MDA non-participation in the study area; however, respondents think that non-treated individuals will accept the interventions when engaged properly by the CDDs.