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BACKGROUND: Across sub-Saharan Africa, mid-level healthcare managers oversee implementation of national guidelines. It remains unclear whether leadership and management training can improve population health outcomes. METHODS: We sought to evaluate leadership/management skills among district-level health managers in Uganda participating in the SEARCH-IPT randomised trial to promote isoniazid preventive therapy (IPT) for persons with HIV (PWH). The intervention, which led to higher IPT rates, included annual leadership/management training of managers. We conducted a cross-sectional survey assessing leadership/management skills among managers at trial completion. The survey evaluated self-reported use of leadership/management tools and general leadership/management. We conducted a survey among a sample of providers to understand the interventions impact. Targeted minimum loss-based estimation (TMLE) was used to compare responses between trial arms. RESULTS: Of 163 managers participating in the SEARCH-IPT trial, 119 (73%) completed the survey. Intervention managers reported more frequent use of leadership/management tools taught in the intervention curriculum than control managers (+3.64, 95% CI 1.98-5.30, P < 0.001). There were no significant differences in self-reported leadership skills in the intervention as compared to the control group. Among providers, the average reported quality of guidance and supervision was significantly higher in intervention vs control districts (+1.08, 95% CI 0.63-1.53, P = 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: A leadership and management training intervention increased the use of leadership/management tools among mid-level managers and resulted in higher perceived quality of supervision among providers in intervention vs control districts in Uganda. These findings suggest improved leadership/management among managers contributed to increased IPT use among PWH in the intervention districts of the SEARCH-IPT trial.

Training district-level health officers and other mid-level health system managers revealed multiple contextual factors across political, administrative, and social axes affecting tuberculosis (TB) and TB control in Uganda. Individual relationships between local health, political, and media leaders affect efforts to inform the public and provide services, yet greater administrative coordination between national-level logistics, implementing partner funding, and local needs is required. Social challenges to TB control include high population mobility, local industries, poverty with high-density living and social venues, and misinformation about TB. Capitalizing on implementation knowledge and sharing data can overcome social geographic challenges to TB-prevention planning through strategic healthcare capacity-building at the district level.

Sabila Moses,1 Ezekiel Mupere,2 Joan Nangendo,1 Fred C Semitala,3 Joan N Kalyango,1 Saul Chemonges,4 Patience A Muwanguzi,5 Achilles Katamba6 1Clinical Epidemiology Unit, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda; 2Department of Peadiatric and Child Health, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda; 3Department of Internal Medicine, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda; 4Department of UQ VETS- Small Animal Hospital, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia; 5Department of Nursing, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda; 6Department of Medicine, Makerere University, Kampala, UgandaCorrespondence: Sabila Moses, Email sabilamoses84@gmail.comBackground: Uganda faces a significant dual challenge with tuberculosis (TB), ranking among these countries most affected by the disease worldwide. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends isoniazid preventive therapy (IPT) for managing latent TB. However, the adherence to IPT in military settings remains under-explored in Uganda. This study aims to assess IPT adherence and identify its predictors among soldiers undergoing HIV antiretroviral therapy at a General Military Hospital in Uganda.Methodology: We conducted a cross-sectional study involving 300 HIV-positive soldiers receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART) at the General Military Hospital in Uganda. Due to the small sample size, we employed a consecutive sampling method. We utilized descriptive statistics and modified Poisson regression model for prevalence of IPT adherence and associated factors respectively.Results: Among the 300 clients, the prevalence of isoniazid preventive therapy (IPT) was 94.7%, 95% CI: 92.1– 97.2; adherence to IPT was associated with being aged ≥ 50 years, with a prevalence ratio (PR) of 1.061 and 95% CI: 1.01– 1.12; being married, with a PR of 1.438, 95% CI:1.12– 1.84; having social support, with a PR of 1.498, 95% CI:1.17– 1.92; and having social support played a significant role in IPT adherence among married participants, with a PR of 0.817,95% CI:0.72– 0.93.Conclusion: To enhance adherence to isoniazid preventive therapy among young soldiers with HIV, targeted interventions are crucial, as older individuals tend to adhere better. Implementing marital support programs and strengthening community engagement can bolster adherence through social support networks. Educational campaigns should focus on the importance of IPT, while regular follow-ups will ensure effective monitoring and support. Further research is needed to explore how social support can mitigate stigma associated with HIV. The findings highlight the importance of improving IPT adherence among married soldiers and suggest that this approach could be effective in other low-resource settings.Keywords: IPT, adherence, TB, HIV, soldiers, ART

Inflammatory pseudotumors (IPTs) of the spleen are rare and have often been reported to be associated with Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). Radiographically differentiating IPTs of the spleen from other malignant tumors is challenging, and splenectomy is often performed as a definitive treatment. We report a case of an EBV-associated splenic IPT in a male patient in his 70s. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) revealed a splenic mass that increased from 2.4 cm to 3.9 cm in diameter over one year. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed that the mass showed a slightly high intensity on T1-weighted images and heterogeneous low intensity on T2-weighted images. On dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI, the mass showed weak and gradual inhomogeneous enhancement. A 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) positron emission tomography/CT demonstrated increased FDG uptake in the mass. Splenectomy was performed and the pathological diagnosis was EBV-associated IPT. EBV-associated splenic IPT can mimic malignant tumors on imaging, making it challenging to differentiate them from other splenic diseases.

BACKGROUND: Across sub-Saharan Africa, mid-level healthcare managers oversee implementation of national guidelines. It remains unclear whether leadership and management training can improve population health outcomes. METHODS: We sought to evaluate leadership/management skills among district-level health managers in Uganda participating in the SEARCH-IPT randomised trial to promote isoniazid preventive therapy (IPT) for persons with HIV (PWH). The intervention, which led to higher IPT rates, included annual leadership/management training of managers. We conducted a cross-sectional survey assessing leadership/management skills among managers at trial completion. The survey evaluated self-reported use of leadership/management tools and general leadership/management. We conducted a survey among a sample of providers to understand the intervention’s impact. Targeted minimum loss-based estimation (TMLE) was used to compare responses between trial arms. RESULTS: Of 163 managers participating in the SEARCH-IPT trial, 119 (73%) completed the survey. Intervention managers reported more frequent use of leadership/management tools taught in the intervention curriculum than control managers (+3.64, 95% CI 1.98–5.30, P < 0.001). There were no significant differences in self-reported leadership skills in the intervention as compared to the control group. Among providers, the average reported quality of guidance and supervision was significantly higher in intervention vs control districts (+1.08, 95% CI 0.63–1.53, P = 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: A leadership and management training intervention increased the use of leadership/management tools among mid-level managers and resulted in higher perceived quality of supervision among providers in intervention vs control districts in Uganda. These findings suggest improved leadership/management among managers contributed to increased IPT use among PWH in the intervention districts of the SEARCH-IPT trial.

Introduction: The rapid spread of COVID-19 worldwide within 2 months demonstrated the vulnerability of the world's population to infectious diseases. In 2015, the Global Antimicrobial Resistance and Use Surveillance System (GLASS) was launched to combat antimicrobial resistance (AMR). However, there has been no comprehensive assessment of the decade-long global battle against AMR based on GLASS data. Methods: South Korea established Kor-GLASS (Korean-GLASS) to proactively monitor data quality and enable international collaborations. A unique feature of Kor-GLASS is the quality control center (QCC), which uses network hubs and ensures standardized, high-quality data through interlaboratory proficiency testing (IPT) and external quality assessment (EQA). In addition, the QCC multifaceted endeavors for integrated data quality management. Results: Since 2020, high-quality AMR data have indicated fluctuating antibiotic resistance rates in South Korea. This trend does not align with the decrease in antibiotic usage seen in humans but coincides with non-human antibiotic sales, indicating a need for greater monitoring of non-human antibiotic resistance. Comprehensive and robust management taking account of the intricate interplay among humans, animals, and the environment is essential. Kor-GLASS has been expanded into a "One Health" multiagency collaborative initiative. Discussion: Although a standardized solution is not suitable for all countries, it must alignwith the local context and international standards. A centralized top-down management structure such as that of the QCC is essential to ensure continuous data quality coordination. Sustained efforts and surveillance systems are crucial for monitoring and managing AMR and safeguarding human health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tension wood is a specialized xylem tissue associated with gravitropism in angiosperm trees. However, few regulators of tension wood formation have been identified. The molecular mechanisms underpinning tension wood formation remain elusive. Here, we report that a Populus KNOTTED-like homeobox gene, PagKNAT2/6b , is involved in tension wood formation and gravity response. Transgenic poplar plants overexpressing PagKNAT2/6b displayed more sensitive gravitropism than controls, as indicated by increased stem curvature. Microscopic examination revealed greater abundance of fibre cells with a gelatinous cell wall layer (G-layer) and asymmetric growth of secondary xylem in PagKNAT2/6b overexpression lines. Conversely, PagKNAT2/6b dominant repression plants exhibited decreased tension wood formation and reduced response to gravity stimulation. Moreover, sensitivity to gravity stimulation showed a negative relationship with development stage. Expression of genes related to growth and senescence was affected in PagKNAT2/6b transgenic plants. More importantly, transcription activation and electrophoretic mobility shift assays suggested that PagKNAT2/6b promotes the expression of cytokinin metabolism genes. Consistently, cytokinin content was increased in PagKNAT2/6b overexpression plants. Therefore, PagKNAT2/6b is involved in gravitropism and tension wood formation, likely via modulation of cytokinin metabolism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Tuberculosis (TB) remains a significant public health concern globally, particularly in regions with a high prevalence of HIV/AIDS. In Tanzania, the co-occurrence of TB and HIV poses a substantial challenge to healthcare systems. Isoniazid Preventive Therapy (IPT) has become an important intervention to mitigate the risk of TB infection among individuals living with HIV. Despite its proven efficacy, the extent of knowledge, attitude, and practice of healthcare workers (HCWs) in Tanzania is not well-documented. This study aimed to evaluate the levels of knowledge, attitude, and practice regarding IPT among healthcare workers. Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out among healthcare workers working at TB/HIV clinics in 12 regions of Tanzania mainland. A semi-structured questionnaire was administered to the respondents consisting of social demographic characteristics, knowledge, attitude, and practice questions. Data were analyzed using Stata version 14.0. Results: A total of 464 respondents were interviewed, with 282 (60.8%) being female. The mean age was 36.4 years (SD = 11.0). Among the interviewed, 255 (55.0%) were nurses. Regarding knowledge, attitude, and practice on IPT, 217 (46.8%), 220 (47.0%), and 422 (90.9%) respondents respectively demonstrated adequacy in these domains. Factors such as gender, university education, professional role in healthcare practice, cumulative work experience of one year or more, tenure at a TB/HIV clinic of one year or longer, and attendance at IPT-related training emerged as significant determinants. These factors influence respondents' knowledge, attitude, and practice towards IPT. Conclusion: The findings underscored a notable knowledge gap and a less favourable attitude towards IPT among HCWs, despite commendable practices. Addressing this disparity through targeted training interventions for healthcare workers holds promise for enhancing their understanding and attitude toward IPT, thereby fostering increased acceptance and utilization of this preventive therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background The World Health Organization recommends that Isoniazid Preventive Therapy (IPT) should be administered to all People living with Human immunodeficiency virus (PLHIV) not currently suffering from tuberculosis (TB) to reduce the incidence of the same. The objectives of this study were to determine the incidence of PLHIV who contracted TB after receiving 6 months of IPT (followed up for ≥ 2 years), the incidence of PLHIV who developed tuberculosis when not on IPT, and the occurrence of adverse drug reactions due to IPT. Methods A Retrospective Cohort study was conducted in two ART centers in Mangalore, which included PLHIV who had completed 6 months of IPT from January 2017 to May 2018 and were followed up until May 2020; patients in the comparison group consisted of those attending ART centers during the same period who did not receive IPT. These data were retrieved from the case files of these patients from June to November 2020, entered into MS Excel, and analyzed using statistical package for social science (SPSS) version 25. Results The study included 1014 patients: 525 (51.8%) received IPT and 489 (48.2%) did not. Eight (1.5%) patients developed TB after IPT completion compared to 32 (6.5%) patients who developed TB from the non-IPT group. There was a 77% reduction in the incidence of developing TB in those patients who received IPT as compared to those who haven’t receive IPT (RR of 0.23, p value Conclusions This study indicated that the completion of IPT significantly reduced the TB burden, showing significant protection against TB for a minimum duration of 2 years. Thus, implementation of IPT should be strengthened, and strict compliance should be ensured to reduce TB infection among PLHIV.

Purpose: The volume of arthroscopic hip surgery has increased dramatically in recent years with iliopsoas tendinitis (IPT) being one of the most common complications of this procedure. The purpose of this study is to investigate the prevalence of post-operative IPT in patients who undergo arthroscopic hip surgery with capsular closure using absorbable versus non-absorbable suture. Methods: This is a single center, single surgeon, retrospective analysis performed between August 2007 and May 2023 comparing two cohorts who underwent hip arthroscopy. Patients were divided into those who underwent surgery with capsular closure using absorbable (Vicryl®, Johnson and Johnson, New Brunswick, NJ) suture and those who underwent capsular closure with non-absorbable suture (Suturetape, Arthrex, Naples FL). All patients who underwent primary or revision hip arthroscopy and were at least 2 months post-operation were initially included in the study. Results: Between August 2007 and May 2023 a total of 1513 hip arthroscopy surgeries were performed. Within this cohort, 1421 hips underwent hip arthroscopy with non-absorbable suture and 64 hips underwent surgery with absorbable suture. There was no significant difference between the proportion of IPT in the non-absorbable cohort (2.3%) versus the absorbable cohort (1.6%) (P = 0.669). Conclusion: Capsular closure with Absorbable sutures was non-inferior to capsular closure with non-absorbable sutures with respect to the proportion of post-operative IPT following hip arthroscopy for FAI. Additionally, the proportion of post-operative IPT was found to be significantly higher in patients undergoing revision versus primary hip arthroscopy, regardless of capsular closure suture type. Level of evidence: IV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Approximately 32 million pregnant women are at risk of malaria with up to 10,000 maternal deaths and 200,000 neonates at risk annually. Intermittent Preventive Treatment (IPT) with sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine (SP) is recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) to reduce disease in pregnancy and adverse maternal and newborn outcomes. At least three doses of SP should be taken by pregnant women during antenatal consultation (ANC) beginning from the thirteenth week of pregnancy till parturition. The aim of this study was to assess uptake of IPT during pregnancy and risk factors for maternal anaemia and infant birth weight in Dschang, West region of Cameroon. Methods A total of 380 consenting pregnant women at delivery were recruited in a cross- sectional prospective survey between January to December 2021. Data on ANC attendance, total dose of IPT and history of malaria were abstracted from hospital ANC records while socio-demographic characteristics, bed net use and obstetrics history of each participant were also recorded through an interview. Further, blood samples were collected from the intervillous space for assessment of maternal anaemia and microscopic parasitology. Nested PCR based on amplification of the Plasmodium 18S sRNA was carried out to detect submicroscopic infection. IPTp coverage was calculated per WHO recommendation and the prevalence of anaemia and low birth weight were estimated as proportions in the total sample of pregnant women and live births, respectively. Crude and adjusted odds ratios and their 95% confidence intervals were used to estimate associations between pregnancy outcomes considered and risk factors in specific and general models. A p

Social dysfunction plays a critical role in the development and maintenance of depression in both adolescents and adults. Interpersonal psychotherapy (IPT) and interpersonal psychotherapy for depressed adolescents (IPT-A) are effective, evidence-based, and time-limited treatments for depression that aim to mitigate depressive symptoms by strengthening an individual’s interpersonal relationships and skills. Though the efficacy of IPT/IPT-A has been well established, we are just beginning to know how biological systems are implicated in its success. In this scoping review, we examine the extant literature on biological mechanisms and predictors of IPT/IPT-A treatment efficacy. Overall, seven studies were identified that consider biological processes in the context of evaluating IPT/IPTA, and the studies that were conducted are typically preliminary in nature. Notably, there is some evidence showing that the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis, various frontal and limbic brain regions, and behavioral indexes that represent brain functioning are associated with changes in IPT/IPT-A or predictive of IPT/IPT-A outcomes. We also consider consequences for treatment and future research. The hope is that a better understanding of how and for whom IPT/IPT-A works can optimize the success of the treatment in reducing an individual’s depressive symptoms.

Over the last decade, remarkable progress has been made in our understanding the phytohormones, cytokinin's (CKs) biosynthesis, perception, and signalling pathways. Additionally, it became apparent that interfering with any of these steps has a significant effect on all stages of plant growth and development. As a result of their complex regulatory and cross-talk interactions with other hormones and signalling networks, they influence and control a wide range of biological activities, from cellular to organismal levels. In agriculture, CKs are extensively used for yield improvement and management because of their wide-ranging effects on plant growth, development and physiology. One of the primary targets in this regard is cytokinin oxidase/dehydrogenase (CKO/CKX), which is encoded by CKX gene, which catalyses the irreversible degradation of cytokinin. The previous studies on various agronomically important crops indicated that plant breeders have targeted CKX directly. In recent years, prokaryotic clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/CRISPR-associated protein 9 (Cas9) system has been increasingly used in editing the CKO/CKX gene and phenomenal results have been achieved. This review provides an updated information on the applications of CRISPR-based gene-editing tools in manipulating cytokinin metabolism at the genetic level for yield improvement. Furthermore, we summarized the current developments of RNPmediated DNA/transgene-free genomic editing of plants which would broaden the application of this technology. The current review will advance our understanding of cytokinins and their role in sustainably increase crop production through CRISPR/Cas genome editing tool. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Little is known about isoniazid preventive therapy (IPT) completion rates among children or adolescents compared to adults living with HIV in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Methods: We conducted a retrospective cohort analysis including children, adolescents, and adults living with HIV who were treated at FHI360 and partners‐implemented HIV care programs at six health zones in Kinshasa, DRC, from 2004 to 2020. The primary outcome was the proportion of children, adolescents versus adults who did complete 6 months of daily self‐administered IPT. Log‐binomial regression assessed independent predictors of IPT non‐completion and Kaplan–Meier technique for survival analysis. Results: Of 11,691 eligible patients on ART who initiated IPT, 429 were children (<11 years), 804 adolescents (11–19 years), and 10,458 adults (≥20 years). The median age was 7 (IQR: 3–9) years for children, 15 (IQR: 13–17) years for adolescents, and 43 (35–51) years for adults. Among those who were initiated on IPT, 5625 out of 11,691 people living with HIV (PLHIV) had IPT completion outcome results, and an overall 3457/5625 (61.5%) completion rate was documented. Compared to adults, children and adolescents were less likely to complete IPT [104/199 (52.3%) and 268/525 (51.0%), respectively, vs. 3085/4901 (62.9%)]. After adjustment, the only independent predictors for IPT non‐completion were health zone of residence and type of ART regimen. Kaplan–Meier analysis showed comparable poor survival among patients who completed IPT versus those who did not (p‐value for log‐rank test, 0.15). Conclusions: The overall sub‐optimal IPT completion rate in adults as well as children/adolescents in this setting is of great concern. Prospective studies are needed to elucidate the specific barriers to IPT completion among children, adolescents, and adults in DRC as well as the scale‐up of evidence‐informed interventions to improve IPT completion, such as adoption of shorter TB preventive regimens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Approximately 32 million pregnant women are at risk of malaria with up to 10,000 maternal deaths and 200,000 neonates at risk annually. Intermittent Preventive Treatment (IPT) with sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine (SP) is recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) to reduce disease in pregnancy and adverse maternal and newborn outcomes. At least three doses of SP should be taken by pregnant women during antenatal consultation (ANC) beginning from the thirteenth week of pregnancy till parturition. The aim of this study was to assess uptake of IPT during pregnancy and risk factors for maternal anaemia and infant birth weight in Dschang, West region of Cameroon. Methods: A total of 380 consenting pregnant women at delivery were recruited in a cross- sectional prospective survey between January to December 2021. Data on ANC attendance, total dose of IPT and history of malaria were abstracted from hospital ANC records while socio-demographic characteristics, bed net use and obstetrics history of each participant were also recorded through an interview. Further, blood samples were collected from the intervillous space for assessment of maternal anaemia and microscopic parasitology. Nested PCR based on amplification of the Plasmodium 18S sRNA was carried out to detect submicroscopic infection. IPTp coverage was calculated per WHO recommendation and the prevalence of anaemia and low birth weight were estimated as proportions in the total sample of pregnant women and live births, respectively. Crude and adjusted odds ratios and their 95% confidence intervals were used to estimate associations between pregnancy outcomes considered and risk factors in specific and general models. A p < 0.05 was considered significant. The R software (V4.1.4) was used for all analyses. Results: A majority of pregnant women was aged between 24 and 34 years old (59.2%) and had secondary education (58.8%). Uptake of ≥ 3 IPTp was 64.99% with 77.20% of all who received at least one IPTp doses taking a mix of SP and DP or DP alone in successive ANC contacts. Those with four or more ANC contacts (73.42%) were more likely to have received at least one IPTp. Furthermore, 13.9% of live births had low birthweights (BW < 2500 g) and one in four parturient women with moderate anaemia by WHO criteria. Microscopy (blood smear examination) and PCR-based diagnosis revealed between 0% and 1.57% of parasite-infected placental samples, respectively. Reported malaria in pregnancy predicted maternal anaemia at birth but not birth weight. Only gestational age (< 37 weeks) and bed net use (< 5 months) significantly predicted infant birth weight at delivery. Conclusion: The uptake of WHO recommended IPT doses during pregnancy was moderately high. Reported malaria in pregnancy, poor bed net coverage, gestational age less than 37 weeks adversely affect maternal haemoglobin levels at birth and infant birth weight. Asymptomatic and submicroscopic placental parasite infections was found at low prevalence. Together these results highlight the importance of maintaining aggressive measures to prevent malaria in pregnancy and protect the health of mother and baby. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to present an evidence-based guideline for primary teeth with deep caries or trauma requiring vital pulp therapies (VPT). Methods: A systematic review/meta-analysis on vital primary teeth resulting from trauma or caries was conducted using GRADE to assess the certainty of evidence for clinical recommendations. A decision tree was provided for choosing VPTs. Results: No articles on trauma VPT were found. For VPT in primary teeth with deep caries, indirect pulp treatment (IPT) or pulpotomy using the calcium silicate cement (mineral trioxide aggregate [MTA] or Biodentine®) show increased success over using direct pulp capping (DPC) and other pulpotomies. Different liners do not affect IPT success (high certainty) or DPC capping agents' success (very low certainty) after 24 months. It is strongly recommended, with high certainty from 24-month data, that calcium silicate cement pulpotomy is preferred over formocresol, ferric sulfate, zinc oxide eugenol pulpotomy, and other pulpotomies. Using selective caries removal and IPT for deep caries is strongly recommended with moderate certainty over complete and stepwise removal. Statistically, this results in significantly fewer pulp exposures. No caries removal and Hall technique crown may be used when indicated (moderate certainty at 24 months). For vital primary incisors with deep caries, pulpotomy was significantly better statistically than pulpectomy. Teeth diagnosed with/without reversible pulpitis pain showed comparable success after 12 months of treatment by IPT or calcium silicate cement pulpotomy. The following had little or no significant effect on MTA pulpotomy success: coronal pulp removal methods; irrigation solution; method to control hemorrhage; base over MTA; treatment in one or two visits; anterior or posterior teeth. Conclusions: Indirect pulp treatment or calcium silicate cement pulpotomy is likely to increase vital pulp therapy success over other VPTs such as direct pulp capping and other pulpotomies after 24 months (moderate certainty). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Social dysfunction plays a critical role in the development and maintenance of depression in both adolescents and adults. Interpersonal psychotherapy (IPT) and interpersonal psychotherapy for depressed adolescents (IPT-A) are effective, evidence-based, and time-limited treatments for depression that aim to mitigate depressive symptoms by strengthening an individual's interpersonal relationships and skills. Though the efficacy of IPT/IPT-A has been well established, we are just beginning to know how biological systems are implicated in its success. In this scoping review, we examine the extant literature on biological mechanisms and predictors of IPT/IPT-A treatment efficacy. Overall, seven studies were identified that consider biological processes in the context of evaluating IPT/IPTA, and the studies that were conducted are typically preliminary in nature. Notably, there is some evidence showing that the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis, various frontal and limbic brain regions, and behavioral indexes that represent brain functioning are associated with changes in IPT/IPT-A or predictive of IPT/IPT-A outcomes. We also consider consequences for treatment and future research. The hope is that a better understanding of how and for whom IPT/IPT-A works can optimize the success of the treatment in reducing an individual's depressive symptoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BackgroundPediatric tuberculosis (TB), human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), and TB-HIV co-infection are health problems with evidence-based diagnostic and treatment algorithms that can reduce morbidity and mortality. Implementation and operational barriers affect adherence to guidelines in many resource-constrained settings, negatively affecting patient outcomes. This study aimed to assess performance in the pediatric HIV and TB care cascades in Mozambique.MethodsA retrospective analysis of routine PEPFAR site-level HIV and TB data from 2012 to 2016 was performed. Patients 0-14 years of age were included. Descriptive statistics were used to report trends in TB and HIV indicators. Linear regression was done to assess associations of site-level variables with performance in the pediatric TB and HIV care cascades using 2016 data.ResultsRoutine HIV testing and cotrimoxazole initiation for co-infected children in the TB program were nearly optimal at 99% and 96% in 2016, respectively. Antiretroviral therapy (ART) initiation was lower at 87%, but steadily improved from 2012 to 2016. From the HIV program, TB screening at the last consultation rose steadily over the study period, reaching 82% in 2016. The percentage of newly enrolled children who received either TB treatment or isoniazid preventive treatment (IPT) also steadily improved in all provinces, but in 2016 was only at 42% nationally. Larger volume sites were significantly more likely to complete the pediatric HIV and TB care cascades in 2016 (p value range 0.05 to

Background: Gaps in Tuberculosis Preventive Treatment (TPT) cascade among household contacts (HHCs) of Tuberculosis patients are often attributed to the knowledge gaps among the HHCs. Objectives: To examine the factors affecting the uptake of IGRA testing among HHCs of drug-susceptible, pulmonary TB patients registered between January and May 2023 in Kolar district, Karnataka using Health Belief model and qualitative interviews. Methodology: Between April and June 2023, 196 HHCs of 70 registered TB patients were included in the mixed methods study. Using a four-point Likert scale questionnaire, adult HHCs were interviewed regarding their knowledge of TB disease, perceived susceptibility and severity of TB Infection, benefits, and barriers in testing for TB Infection (IGRA) and cues for action. Mann Whitney U test was used to compare the scores of those who were tested and those who were not. Further, reasons for not undergoing IGRA testing were also assessed qualitatively. Results: Among 196 HHC, 45 were children under 5 years. IGRA testing had been done in 47% (71/151) of eligible HHCs. Among adult HHC, self- perceived and Index case-attributed susceptibility score was significantly associated with testing; while perceived severity scores, knowledge and perceived benefit scores were not. Major themes in barriers to testing were misinterpretation of ‘TB Infection’, selective testing of HHCs, delayed contact tracing, lack of logistics and lack of planning and coordination. TPT was given to 84% (38/45) under five HHCs. Major cue for TPT provision was availability of TPT, followed by caregiver’s perceived susceptibility. Conclusion: Perceived susceptibility of HHC to TB infection is often misinformed. Group counselling of HHCs, provision of IGRA at doorstep and a well-established referral system will improve the uptake of IGRA.

This paper presents a solution to a limitation of wireless power transfer that arises when using two D-shaped transmitter and receiver coils. Double D, or DD, coils are well known to have a polar, directional magnetic field, which increases the misalignment tolerance in one of the directions. The misalignment tolerance is nonsymmetric, and it is significantly better in one of the directions, which can also be considered a shortcoming. An additional shortcoming of the DD coil is that it is dependent on the rotation around the z-axis, due to the directional magnetic field. This is not a problem when using classic planar spiral coils, which do not generate a directional magnetic field. Therefore, DD coils are not suitable for applications in which the z-axis orientation is not determined and fixed to specific angle and direction. This paper presents a unique design of a transmitter coil, based on a double DD coil. The transmitter coil consists of two DD coils which are perpendicular to each other. The proposed transmitter structure can excite the receiver DD coil in a way that the efficiency of the power transfer is the highest, regardless of the orientation. The proposed transmitter structure can, therefore, solve the problem with rotation of a single DD coil. The proposed system structure was tested on the small-scale experimental setup. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Early in the history of cytokinins, it was clear that Zea mays seeds contained not just trans-zeatin, but its nucleosides and nucleotides. Subsequently, both pods and seeds of legumes and cereal grains have been shown to contain a complex of cytokinin forms. Relative to the very high quantities of cytokinin detected in developing seeds, only a limited amount appears to have been translocated from the parent plant. Translocation experiments, and the detection of high levels of endogenous cytokinin in the maternal seed coat tissues of legumes, indicates that cytokinin does not readily cross the maternal/filial boundary, indicating that the filial tissues are autonomous for cytokinin biosynthesis. Within the seed, trans-zeatin plays a key role in sink establishment and it may also contribute to sink strength. The roles, if any, of the other biologically active forms of cytokinin (cis-zeatin, dihydrozeatin and isopentenyladenine) remain to be elucidated. The recent identification of genes coding for the enzyme that leads to the biosynthesis of trans-zeatin in rice (OsCYP735A3 and 4), and the identification of a gene coding for an enzyme (CPN1) that converts trans-zeatin riboside to trans-zeatin in the apoplast, further cements the key role played by trans-zeatin in plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Medical interventions have improved the lives and wellbeing of prematurely born infants and their families,however, mental health interventions among these families have yet to become more widely implemented. Approximately 10 % of the population in the United States is born prematurely, with a higher incidence among families of color. Parents of premature babies face several challenges that negatively influence their mental health, their ability to bond with their babies, and ultimately their children's development. In addition to the biological impairment that certain premature babies face, their experience of medical interventions at such a young age increases their caregiving needs. This paper aims to review the literature about caregivers' attachment representation and sensitivity and its impact on caregivers' behaviors and infant attachment. It also overviews effective early interventions emphasizing the caregiver--infant relationship treatment guided by the principles of Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health due to the reverberating influence of prematurity in the whole family. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Objective: Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT) is an evidence-based therapy. There have been increasing demand and training opportunities of IPT in China. Reviewing current evidence on its use in Chinese patients can help us understand the applicability of IPT in China and identify knowledge gaps to encourage and better future research in this field. Method: We did a comprehensive search of three major electronic databases: PubMed (English), Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) and WanFang Data (Chinese). We examined overall study design, outcome measures, data analyses and other parameters. We only selected articles of Randomized Clinical Trials (RCT) for this review. All study findings were grouped and summarized per psychiatric diagnoses. The meta-analysis and forest plots were performed whereas studies could be combined. Results: After a full text review of 132 articles, 40 were selected for the final review. Comparing with control groups, evidences supported the efficacy of IPT in Chinese patients with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), Postpartum depression, Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), Social Anxiety Disorder, Post Stress Traumatic Disorder (PTSD), and Post-psychotic Depression. It was also beneficial to college students and Chinese first-time mothers. Meta-analysis using a random-effects model consistently yielded significant score differences between the IPT and control groups (p < 0.0001) on MDD. Conclusion: This systematic review has identified the current best evidence for IPT efficacy in Chinese population. The findings support IPT as an effective treatment in Chinese with certain psychiatric conditions, consistent with those from many other studies throughout the world. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wireless power transmission (WPT) is popular and gaining technology finding its application in various fields. The power is transferred from a source to an electrical load without the need of interconnections. Wireless power transmission (WPT) is useful to power electrical devices where physical wiring is not possible or inconvenient. The technology uses the principle of mutual inductance. One of the future applications finds in automotive sector especially in Electric Vehicles. This project deals with research and development of wireless charging systems for Electric vehicles using wireless transmission. The main goal is to transmit power using resonance coupling and to build the charging systems. The systems deal with an AC source, transmission coil, reception coil, converter and electric load which are battery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, an inductive power transfer (IPT) system without compensation elements is presented for small house appliances. The proposed system's transmitter side is an independent induction heating cooktop. IPT can be achieved when the kettle with the receiving coils is placed on the transmitter coil. The coils are designed with a high coupling coefficient. The magnetic system model consisting of aligned transmitter and receiver coils is created in the Maxwell program. In the created model, the analysis depends on the air gap and frequency, which are the variables that affect the wireless power transfer. The electronic circuit simulation uses the coil model to examine the system's dynamic behavior. The design of the transmitter/receiver coils of the IPT system is made with a cylindrical coil with a diameter of 145 mm, taking into account that it is compatible with the dimensions of the existing kettle and induction heating cooktops coil. A half-bridge series resonant converter circuit is used to adjust the power transferred to the load. To verify the simulation results and test the designed system, an experimental circuit using a 2200 W kettle is carried out. In the experiments, the air gap between the coils is kept constant at 7 mm, and measurements are taken for different powers. Experimental results confirm the magnetic model and simulation results. As a result, wireless power transfer is realized in a wide range without loss of performance in the kettle. System efficiency is greater than the 90% specified in the Ki cordless kitchen standard, and the harmonic currents drawn from the mains are lower than the values determined by the IEC 61000-3-2 standard. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper explored perceptions of the environmental impacts of informal public transport (IPT) in Ibadan, Nigeria and Nairobi, Kenya. Based on a questionnaire survey supplemented by exploratory factor analysis the results revealed unanimous agreement that IPT hubs and the infrastructure around them are perceived as having adverse impacts on local people and their environment. There exist statistically significant differences on the perceptions, including the latent factors underpinning them, at city level and across respondent's backgrounds. The findings imply significant scope for urban planning practice and policy-making to find systematic methods to integrate the knowledge about IPT's perceived environmental impacts, from all urban citizens, as a means to pro-actively enhance their rights and inclusiveness. This will ameliorate a planning culture that often ignores the realities and concerns of the marginalised. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High misalignment-insensitive capacity is of great importance for inductive power transfer (IPT) systems. A hybrid topology based on a parameter optimization design method is presented to obtain constant current output regardless of the coupling and load. DDQ coils are employed to protect against system key parameter changes, and a particle swarm optimization (PSO) method has been presented to achieve a nearly constant current output without using complex control schemes. A hybrid IPT system using DDQ coils has been built. The experimental results verify that the current fluctuation is within 5% when the load varies from 5 Ω to 10 Ω within 50% misalignment of the coupling pads. Moreover, the maximum system DC–DC efficiency is up to 91%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inflammatory pseudotumor is a rare benign tumor that can occur at various body sites. Due to its rare occurrence and histological variety radiological data is heterogeneous and limited.

Cytokinin is a major phytohormone that has been used in agriculture as a plant-growth stimulating compound since its initial discovery in the 1960s. Isopentenyl transferase (IPT) is a rate-limiting enzyme for cytokinin biosynthesis, which is produced by plants as well as bacteria including both plant pathogenic species and plant growth-promoting bacteria (PGPB). It has been hypothesized that there may be differences in IPT function between plant pathogens and PGPB. However, a comprehensive comparison of IPT genes between plant pathogenic and PGPB species has not been performed. Here, we performed a global comparison of IPT genes across bacteria, analyzing their DNA sequences, codon usage, phyletic distribution, promoter structure and genomic context. We found that adenylate type IPT genes are highly specific to plant-associated bacteria and subdivide into two major clades: clade A, largely composed of proteobacterial plant pathogens; and clade B, largely composed of actinomycete PGPB species. Besides these phylogenetic differences, we identified several genomic features that suggest differences in IPT regulation between pathogens and PGPB. Pathogen-associated IPTs tended to occur in predicted virulence loci, whereas PGPB-associated IPTs tended to co-occur with other genes involved in cytokinin metabolism and degradation. Pathogen-associated IPTs also showed elevated gene copy numbers, significant deviation in codon usage patterns, and extended promoters, suggesting differences in regulation and activity levels. Our results are consistent with the hypothesis that differences in IPT regulation and activity exist between plant pathogens and PGPB, which determine their effect on plant host phenotypes through the control of cytokinin levels.

This paper describes the control of a wireless power transfer system using a double DD coil structure, when the transmitter and the receiver coil are rotated to one another. WPT systems using single DD coils are rotationally dependent, due to the directional magnetic field generated by the DD transmitter coil. This rotational dependance can be mitigated by using a different transmitter structure. One such possibility is the usage of the double DD coil on the transmitter and the receiver sides. A double DD coil includes two directional DD coils, which can be excited separately. The coils inside the coil structure are perpendicular to one another, which allows higher power density and additional rotation tolerance. The proposed system was tested on a low power laboratory experimental setup. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Individuals living with Parkinson's disease (PD) experience interpersonal stressors that contribute to depressive risk. Interpersonal psychotherapy (IPT) emphasizes the bidirectional relationship between interpersonal stressors and mood may therefore be a suitable treatment for PD-depression. The primary aim of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of delivering 12 sessions of IPT to depressed PD patients and explore the need for modifications. A secondary aim was to obtain descriptive information about efficacy outcomes. The study used a pre-post design without a comparison group. Participants were 12 PD patients with a major depressive disorder. IPT was well accepted and tolerated by patients and required minimal modifications. Compliance with session attendance and completion of study questionnaires were excellent and treatment satisfaction was high. Depression scores declined from baseline to endpoint, with 7 patients meeting criteria for remission at endpoint. Findings are encouraging and a larger randomized controlled trial is currently underway to ascertain if IPT is an efficacious treatment for PD-depression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Chile demand for specialist care following exposure to interpersonal violence (IPV) in youth far exceeds capacity. Group interventions may improve access to care for youth. To evaluate the effectiveness and acceptability of two low-intensity group interventions: Trama Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT); Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT); and treatment as usual, Art therapy-based support (ATBS). Outcomes measured were post-traumatic stress symptoms, depression, interpersonal functioning and affect regulation. Participants and Setting. Participants were 67 Chilean youth aged 13–17 years, victims of IPV on a waiting list to receive specialist individual intervention. Using a randomised controlled trial design, participants were randomly assigned to one of the interventions. Self-report measures were completed at 5 timepoints between baseline and follow up eight weeks after intervention ended. Dropout rates and attendance were also analysed. TF-CBT showed significant decreases for PTSD (d = 0.91) and depression (d = 0.77) symptoms, sustained at follow-up with affect regulation problems also showing significant decrease from baseline (d = 0.43). IPT showed significant decreases in PTSD symptoms (d = 0.64) and affect regulation problems (d = 0.66), both sustained at follow-up. ATBS showed statistically significant decrease for PTSD (d = 0.79) and interpersonal problems (d = 0.65) but only change in PTSD was sustained at follow-up. There were no significant differences in dropout or attendance between the interventions. Group interventions provide a viable and effective first-phase option for reducing psychological distress in IPV-exposed youth in high-demand contexts. Effectiveness may be further improved through the more active involvement of parents and carers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Early in the history of cytokinins, it was clear that Zea mays seeds contained not just trans-zeatin, but its nucleosides and nucleotides. Subsequently, both pods and seeds of legumes and cereal grains have been shown to contain a complex of cytokinin forms. Relative to the very high quantities of cytokinin detected in developing seeds, only a limited amount appears to have been translocated from the parent plant. Translocation experiments, and the detection of high levels of endogenous cytokinin in the maternal seed coat tissues of legumes, indicates that cytokinin does not readily cross the maternal/filial boundary, indicating that the filial tissues are autonomous for cytokinin biosynthesis. Within the seed, trans-zeatin plays a key role in sink establishment and it may also contribute to sink strength. The roles, if any, of the other biologically active forms of cytokinin (cis-zeatin, dihydrozeatin and isopentenyladenine) remain to be elucidated. The recent identification of genes coding for the enzyme that leads to the biosynthesis of trans-zeatin in rice (OsCYP735A3 and 4), and the identification of a gene coding for an enzyme (CPN1) that converts trans-zeatin riboside to trans-zeatin in the apoplast, further cements the key role played by trans-zeatin in plants.

Background: Administration of intermittent preventive treatment (IPT) in pregnancy is recommended for all pregnant women living in areas of stable malaria transmission. In order to increase the chances of a parturient receiving adequate number of IPT in pregnancy, World Health Organization (WHO) now recommends that it should be commenced from second trimester and given every month (at least 4 weeks apart) until the time of delivery, however, this recommendation is not being practiced by all doctors attending to pregnant women. Objective: To determine the conformity of Doctors to monthly prescription of IPT till delivery. Materials and Methods: This was a cross-sectional survey of antenatal clinic Doctors’ prescription of IPT during pregnancy in Enugu state. Information obtained included the socio-demographic characteristics of the Doctors, knowledge of IPT in pregnancy for malaria and implementation of the new IPT policy. A P-value of

Malignant pleural effusion (MPE) is a common complication in the late stage of malignant tumors. The appearance of MPE indicates that the primary tumor has spread to the pleura or progressed to an advanced stage. The survival time of the patients will be significantly shortened, with a median survival of only a few months. There are a variety of traditional treatments, and their advantages and disadvantages are relatively clear. There are still many problems that cannot be solved by traditional methods in clinical work. The most common one is intrapleural perfusion therapy with chemotherapy drugs, but it has a large side effect of chemotherapy. At present, with the development of medical technology, there are a variety of treatment methods, and many innovative, significant and valuable treatment methods have emerged, which also bring hope for the treatment of refractory and recurrent MPE patients. Several clinical trials had confirmed that drug-carrying microparticles has less adverse reactions and obvious curative effect. However, there is still a long way to go to completely control and cure MPE, and the organic combination of clinical work and scientific research results is needed to bring dawn to refractory MPE patients.

Accessibility in the education system for the Disabled (OKU) at the tertiary level has become the talk and attention at the university level to raise awareness of this group. Awareness of the disabilities of this group is very important in fighting for their rights and giving them equal opportunities. This study is a necessary problem in academics in creating awareness of the needs of the disabled in Institutions of Higher Learning (IPT). This study uses a qualitative research method of in-depth interviews with eleven (11) respondents consisting of six (6) academic students who teach students with disabilities and five (5) students with disabilities using the categories of visual impairment, hearing and other categories. Competency study in two IPTs at the Selangor International Islamic University College (KUIS) and the Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah Polytechnic. The findings obtained from the search for academic students in IPT are still at a low level. This is because there is still a lack of knowledge and needs required when dealing with students with disabilities in IPT. So in this study, the researcher will unravel the challenges and energy of teachers in realizing special education at the IPT level. This is because of the increasing number of disabilities, therefore, it is very important for more intervention programs and comprehensive discussions supported to increase awareness of relationships in the community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BackgroundIn a recent trial of intermittent preventive treatment in pregnancy (IPTp) in Uganda, dihydroartemisinin-piperaquine (DP) was superior to sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine (SP) in preventing maternal and placental malaria.MethodsWe compared genotypes using sequencing, fluorescent microsphere, and quantitative polymerase chain reaction assays at loci associated with drug resistance in Plasmodium falciparum isolated from subjects receiving DP or SP.ResultsConsidering aminoquinoline resistance, DP was associated with increased prevalences of mutations at pfmdr1 N86Y, pfmdr1 Y184F, and pfcrt K76T compared to SP (64.6% vs 27.4%, P < .001; 93.9% vs 59.2%, P < .001; and 87.7% vs 75.4%, P = .03, respectively). Increasing plasma piperaquine concentration at the time of parasitemia was associated with increasing pfmdr1 86Y prevalence; no infections with the N86 genotype occurred with piperaquine >2.75 ng/mL. pfkelch13 propeller domain polymorphisms previously associated with artemisinin resistance were not identified. Recently identified markers of piperaquine resistance were uncommon and not associated with DP. Considering antifolate resistance, SP was associated with increased prevalence of a 5-mutation haplotype (pfdhfr 51I, 59R, and 108N; pfdhps 437G and 581G) compared to DP (90.8% vs 60.0%, P = .001).ConclusionsIPTp selected for genotypes associated with decreased sensitivity to treatment regimens, but genotypes associated with clinically relevant DP resistance in Asia have not emerged in Uganda.