Implementation Of Control Measures Research Articles

Bovine besnoitiosis: Assessment of the diagnostic accuracy of three different tests using a Bayesian latent class model approach and clinical characterization of the disease.

Bovine besnoitiosis, a disease caused by the tissue cyst-forming apicomplexan Besnoitia besnoiti, is re-emerging in Europe, leading to significant impairment of health and production, as well as economic losses. The early detection of the disease is of the utmost importance for the implementation of effective control measures, yet this is a challenge due to the lack of specific early clinical signs. The objectives of our study were 1) to estimate the diagnostic accuracy of three tests to detect B. besnoiti in naturally exposed cattle (histopathology-skin (HIS-SK); PCR-skin (PCR-SK); and parallel PCR of nasal and scleroconjunctival swabs (PCR-NS-SC)) using a Bayesian latent class model (BLCM) and 2) to describe the clinical presentation of besnoitiosis in the studied animals. The study involved 54 adult Limousin cattle. Biosecurity measures were assessed and scored as medium. At clinical examination, a sire was diagnosed with a form of besnoitiosis between the end of the acute phase and the beginning of the chronic phase. Furthermore, 29 animals displaying a subclinical infection, characterized by the presence of scleroconjunctival cysts, were identified. The PCR-SK and PCR-NS-SC were able to detect B. besnoitia. The diagnostic performance of PCR-SK, PCR-NS-SC and HIS-SK was evaluated. The BLCM indicated that HIS-SK had the highest specificity (99.1 %, 95 % posterior probability interval PI: 96-100 %), while PCR-SK and PCR-NS-SC demonstrated higher sensitivities (91.0 %, 95 % PI: 68-100 %, and 85.0 %, 95 % PI: 67-100 %, respectively). The study concludes that the use of a parallel PCR-NS-SC could represent a viable alternative for the early detection of B. besnoiti, providing a less invasive method to monitor and control bovine besnoitiosis at the herd level.

Stormwater controls for channel stability: Focusing on bed material transport prevents degradation.

The hydrologic benefits of catchment-scale implementation of stormwater control measures (SCMs) in mitigating the adverse effects of urbanization are well established. Nevertheless, recent studies indicate that the Unified Stormwater Sizing Criteria (USSC) regulations, mandating the combined use of distributed and storage stormwater controls, do not protect channel stability, despite their effectiveness in reducing runoff from impervious surfaces. The USSC are the basis of SCM design in 11 U.S. states and the District of Columbia. This study employed a calibrated, sequential modeling approach, which integrated a catchment-scale Storm Water Management Model (SWMM) with the Hydrologic Engineering Center River Analysis System (HEC-RAS), to evaluate the effectiveness of two alternative stormwater regulations in preventing channel erosion. A three-step methodology was developed using the calibrated SWMM and HEC-RAS models: (1) establish the pre-development scenario; (2) design SCMs for channel stability under design storm conditions; and, (3) assess regulation effectiveness through continuous simulations. The modeling results revealed that designing stormwater controls using the USSC increased sediment transport for the 1-, 2-, and 5-yr, 24-hr annual recurrence interval (ARI) design storms 2 to 2.7 times the pre-development conditions. SCM designs aimed at matching the sediment transport of the pre-development catchment reduced peak flows 30-70% and prevented knickpoint formation, as compared to designs based on hydrologic targets only. Study results demonstrate that to protect channels from degradation following urban development, the morphology and bed material of the receiving channel must be considered in the design of stormwater controls.

The development of rapid detection techniques for Alexandrium catenella.

Alexandrium catenella is an important toxic algal species in the Alexandrium genus, which can form toxic red tides in large numbers. The paralytic shellfish poisoning (PSP) produced by Alexandrium catenella can seriously endanger human health and threaten the production and development of the aquaculture and fishery industries. Therefore, it is important to explore and develop effective detection and early warning methods for toxic red tides. Traditional microscopy and molecular biology detection methods require specialized technicians and equipment, which are time-consuming and complicated to operate and cannot be adapted to the needs of rapid on-site detection. This study utilized the colloidal gold immunochromatography technique to prepare polyclonal and monoclonal antibodies against Alexandrium catenella, which were then assembled into colloidal gold test strips. These test strips enable rapid detection of Alexandrium catenella in aquatic environments and facilitate semi-quantitative analysis of its concentration. They allow for a quick assessment of whether the algal concentration in the environment has reached the baseline for red tide conditions, facilitating the timely implementation of preventive and control measures. This method holds significant practical importance and promising application prospects.

Assessment and management of occupational risks in industrial projects using the HAZID technique: a case study of chain dry boom crane in Yazd alloy steel oxygen plant project

Introduction: It is necessary to pay attention to the key role of chain dry boom crane in heavy industrial projects such as the steel industry, to identify and manage occupational risks related to it. This study was conducted with the aim of identifying, evaluating, and managing job risks associated with chain dry boom cranes in the Yazd Alloy Steel Oxygen Plant project using the HAZID technique and providing control strategies to reduce the risk level. Materials and Methods: This study was conducted qualitatively using the HAZID technique. The statistical population included 50 operators, managers, and project experts, and the required information was collected through semi-structured interviews and HAZID workshops. Identified risks were classified into three categories: technical, environmental and human and were evaluated using the risk matrix. Control measures to reduce risk were also proposed and implemented. Findings: In this research, occupational hazards associated with dry chain cranes were identified and classified into three main categories including technical hazards (40%), environmental hazards (30%) and human hazards (30%). Failure of hydraulic systems, failure of boom and safety equipment were considered as technical risks, dealing with high voltage power lines and inappropriate weather effects as environmental risks, and use of unauthorized operators and ignorance of safety principles were considered as human risks. Conclusion: The results of this research showed that after the implementation of control measures, the level of risk decreased significantly. Applying the HAZID technique in similar industrial projects can improve safety and prevent accidents by accurately identifying risks and providing preventive solutions.

Characteristics of humoral responses to the first coronavirus disease booster vaccine and breakthrough infection in central China: a multicentre, prospective, longitudinal cohort study.

The long-term immunogenicity, adverse effects, influencing factors, and protection from booster vaccines remain unclear. Specifically, little is known regarding the humoral immunity and breakthrough infections associated with COVID-19 booster immunization. Therefore, we evaluated the immunogenicity, reactogenicity, influencing factors, and protective effects of the first coronavirus disease booster vaccine 23 months before and after implementation of dynamic zero epidemic control measures among healthcare staff. We prospectively included 389 healthcare staff members in China with negative pre-enrolment severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 test results. Neutralising serum antibodies were evaluated every two months till 23 months post-booster vaccination. Breakthrough infection was recorded or confirmed by SARS-CoV-2 specific PCR testing via throat swabs from participants before and after dynamic zero epidemic control measures. At 15-30 days after vaccination, the mean concentration of the booster vaccine was 6.4 times above initial concentrations. Poorer antibody responses by booster vaccine correlated with male sex, longer post-booster duration, same-manufacturer vaccines, post-routine epidemic control measures implementation and intervals >210 days between primary and booster vaccinations. Higher breakthrough rates were associated with longer post-booster durations and post-routine epidemic control measures implementation but not associated with levels of neutralising antibodies after booster vaccination from participants. Adverse reactions were non-serious. These booster vaccine doses induced rapid, robust antibody responses, maintained for only 6-7 months. Neutralizing antibodies induced by breakthrough infection with SARS-CoV-2 were weaker than those induced by the first COVID-19 booster vaccine, predicting that antibodies induced by SARS-CoV-2 may be very different from those of other known infectious pathogens.

Rift Valley Fever in Rwanda Is Urging for Enhancing Global Health Security Through Multisectoral One Health Strategy.

Rift Valley fever (RVF) is a devastating zoonotic mosquito-borne viral hemorrhagic fever disease that threats human and animal health and biodiversity in Africa, including in Rwanda. RVF is increasingly outbreaking in Africa, leading to devastating impacts on health, socioeconomic stability and growth, and food insecurity in the region, particularly among livestock-dependent communi-ties. This systematic review synthesizes existing evidence on RVF's epidemiology, transmission dynamics, and the prevention and control measures implemented in Rwanda. Our findings high-light the rapidly increasing prevalence of RVF and the expansion of its geographical distribution and host range in Rwanda. Furthermore, the review reveals gaps in local evidence, including the existence of competent vectors of RVFV and the risk factors associated with the emergence and spread of RVF in the country. This underscores the urgent need for prospective research to inform evidence-based health policymaking, strategic planning, and the development and implementation of cost-effective preventive and control measures, including diagnosis and surveillance for early detection and response. It also calls for the institutionalization of a cost-effective, multisectoral, and transdisciplinary One Health strategy for reducing the burden and risk of climate climate-sensitive and zoonotic diseases, including RVF, in the country. We recommend exploring cost-effective human and/or animal vaccination mechanisms for RVF, integrating AI-powered drones into dis-ease vectors surveillance and control, and the routine implementation of genomics-enhanced xenosurveillance to monitor changes in pathogens and vectors dynamics in order to inform poli-cymaking and guide the control interventions.

Infection Control and Incentive Program for Long-Term Care Facilities

<p>新冠疫情對全球醫療體系和長期照護機構造成深遠影響，尤其在長期照護機構，住民多為老年人、共病或免疫力低下的群體，感染風險相對顯著增加。且近年長照機構迅速增加，現行醫療相關指引、政策又多從急性醫療開始規範、執行，但在長期照護機構執行上會有些困難，亦曾發生多起機構內群聚感染事件（如流感、COVID-19或是疥瘡）。故如何具備快速應對突發疫情的能力及工作負擔的同時，又能維持基本感染控制，便成為挑戰。感染管制是長期照護機構保障住民健康與機構穩定運營的基石，建議未來深化跨機構合作模式，以促進感染管制措施的全面落實，提升感染管制效能、減少群聚感染事件的潛在因子，實現更高的照護品質。</p> <p> </p><p>The COVID-19 pandemic has profoundly impacted global healthcare systems, particularly longterm care facilities. Residents inlong-term care facilities are predominantly elderly individuals, those with comorbidities or compromised immune systems, face heightened infection risks. With the rapid expansion of long-term care facilities in recent years, existing healthcare guidelines and policies, originally designed for acute care settings, often pose challenges for implementation in long-term care contexts. Several outbreaks of infectious diseases, such as influenza, COVID-19, and scabies, have been reported within these facilities.<br />As result,developing the capacity to swiftly respond to emergent epidemic while managing high workload and maintaining baseline infection control practices has thus become challenging. Infection control serves as the cornerstone for safeguarding resident health and ensuring the stable operation of long-term care facilities. Future efforts should focus on enhancing inter-institutional collaboration to facilitate comprehensive implementation of infection control measures, improve efficacy, and reduce outbreak risks, ultimately achieving higher care quality.</p> <p> </p>

Vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus – a study on its prevalence from different clinical samples in a rural medical college hospital

Background: Vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus (VRE) is an important cause of nosocomial infection with Enterococcus faecium causing most of the VRE infections. Widespread use of glycopeptides in health care facilities has led to the development of VRE and enterococcal infections with high-level resistance to aminoglycosides, beta-lactamase production and glycopeptide (including vancomycin) resistance are difficult to treat and often pose a therapeutic challenge to health care facilities. Aims and Objectives: This study aimed to determine the antibiotic susceptibility pattern of Enterococcus species from various clinical specimens and to find out the occurrence rate of vancomycin-resistant enterococci. Materials and Methods: This study was conducted at the Department of Microbiology of Tamralipto Government Medical College and Hospital, East Midnapore, West Bengal. A total of 688 clinical samples were the total sample size taken. Isolation and identification of Enterococcus spp. were done by standard microbiological procedures such as culture, Gram staining, and suitable biochemical tests were conducted. Antibiotic susceptibility testing was done by the Kirby–Bauers disc diffusion method on Mueller–Hinton agar and results were interpreted according to Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) guidelines 2023. Teicoplanin sensitivity was performed for those isolates showing resistance to vancomycin. For strains showing resistance to vancomycin by the Kirby–Bauers disc diffusion method, vancomycin minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) were performed by E-test (Hi media) with MIC breakpoints between 4 and 32 as per CLSI criteria. This was compared with the control strain of American Type Culture Collection Enterococcus faecalis 29212 as per CLSI 2023 guidelines. Results: A total of 48 Enterococcus isolates were obtained from 688 clinical samples; 31 (8.05%) were detected from 385 urine samples, 9 (6.72%) were detected from 134 blood samples, 5 (5.15%) were detected from 97 pus/wound swab, and 3 (4.17%) were detected from 72 bronchoalveolar lavage fluid samples. Among the 48 Enterococcus isolates, 13 (27.08%) were vancomycin-resistant out of which nine were E. faecalis and four were E. faecium. Enterococcus species showed maximum resistance toward ciprofloxacin followed by ampicillin and maximum sensitivity toward teicoplanin and linezolid. Conclusion: Implementation of strict infection control measures, antimicrobial policies, and proper surveillance are required to identify, contain, and treat VRE infections to reduce mortality and morbidity.

Whole-cell aptamer-based techniques for rapid bacterial detection: Alternatives to traditional methods.

Controlling the spread of bacterial infectious diseases is a major public health issue, particularly in view of the pandemic of bacterial resistance to antibiotics. In this context, the detection and identification of pathogenic bacteria is a prerequisite for the implementation of control measures. Current reference methods are mainly based on culture methods, which generate a delay in obtaining a result and requires equipment. Consequently, focusing on the detection of the whole bacterium represents a very attractive alternative, since no culture is required. Several techniques have already been deployed to identify whole-cell bacteria. In recent decades, growing interest in nucleic acid aptamers has emerged as a viable alternative to antibodies as recognition elements, offering preferable stability, cost-efficiency, good specificity and affinity. This review explores current alternative methods for the detection of whole-cell bacteria, with particular emphasis on aptamer-based assays. These assays have shown promising results in various transduction mechanisms, including optical, electrochemical, and mechanical approaches, enhancing their versatility in different diagnostic platforms. The integration of aptamers in these detection methods offers rapid, sensitive, versatile and portable solutions for pathogen identification, positioning them as valuable tools in the fight against bacterial infections.

Detection of Mycoplasma haemocanis and Candidatus Mycoplasma haematoparvum in shelter and pet dogs in Malaysia.

Canine haemotrophic mycoplasmosis is caused by mycoplasma haemopathogens, which includes Mycoplasma haemocanis (Mhc) and Candidatus Mycoplasma haematoparvum (CMhp). The Mhc and CMhp pose a health risk to dogs, particularly in immunocompromised and splenectomised dogs, as they lead to haemolytic anaemia. There is scarce information on the detection of Mycoplasma in dogs in Malaysia. Therefore, this study aims to detect the presence of Mycoplasma in the blood of shelter and pet dogs and identify associated risk factors in Malaysian dog populations. Blood samples from shelter dogs in Selangor (n = 71) and pet dogs in Johor Bahru (n = 169) were collected. Conventional polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used to detect Mycoplasma 16S rRNA. Overall, 21.7% of the tested samples were positive, with a higher prevalence among the shelter dogs (45.1%) than pet dogs (11.8%). The Mhc was the predominant species detected, with only one case of CMhp. Risk factors associated with Mycoplasma infection in shelter dogs included urban areas, and the presence of rodents, and wild animals, but no significant associations with tick infestations were detected. These findings necessitate the importance of Mycoplasma transmission dynamics among Malaysian dog populations to assist in the implementation of control measures.

Effect of Major Mycotoxins on Public Health Through the Consumption of Cheese Products.

Food safety is a key priority for public health. However, consumer demand for cheese products may expose the population to the risk of mycotoxicosis and cancer, among others. Acute mycotoxicosis and cancer are examples of linked disorders. Among the most frequent toxic agents that enter the human body through food consumption are mycotoxins. This review study highlights the significance of the impact of the most important mycotoxins on public health through the consumption of cheese products. Despite being a poor substrate for mycotoxin development, cheese products have been found to contain harmful toxins. Aflatoxin M1 (AFM1) and ochratoxin A (OTA) are the main mycotoxins in cheese products, and they are very harmful to human health. Adherence to legislative limits and the implementation of appropriate control measures by food business operators (FBOs) are considered necessary to protect consumers' health.

Asymptomatic Malaria Infection and Hidden Parasitic Burden in Gabonese Schoolchildren: Unveiling Silent Co-Infections in Rural and Urban Settings.

This study aimed to determine the prevalence of co-infection with malaria and intestinal parasites and assess its association with anemia in school-aged children from rural and urban settlements in Gabon. This cross-sectional study involved afebrile school children recruited at schools between May and June 2021. Blood and stool samples were collected from participants whose parents or legal guardians provided informed consent to participate in the study. Hemoglobin concentration (Hb) was measured using a HemoCue photometer (HemoCue 201, HemoCue, Angelholm, Sweden). Giemsa-stained blood films were examined to detect malaria parasites and any filarial infections, while the merthiolate-iodine concentration (MIC) method was used to identify intestinal parasitic infections (IPI). A total of four hundred and seventy (470) school-aged children were successfully enrolled in this study. The observed prevalence values were as follows: malaria infection at 69.6%, IPIs at 19.1%, filaria at 5.1%, Schistosoma infection at 15.0%, and anemia at 29.0%. Co-infections of malaria with IPIs, filaria, and Schistosoma were present in 12.3%, 4.7%, and 6.6% of the children, respectively. Malaria and filaria infections were associated with residing in Lastourville city (p < 0.05) and were also correlated with age (p < 0.05), whereas IPIs were associated with male gender and living in the city of Lastourville. Anemia was linked to malaria infection (p < 0.05) and was more prevalent among children living in rural areas. The findings of this study indicate that malaria, IPIs, and Schistosoma infections continue to pose a significant public health problem in the study area, even though only malaria infection appeared to be associated with anemia. Nevertheless, these results highlight the need for implementing control measures to reduce the prevalence of malaria, IPIs, filaria, and Schistosoma, particularly in Lastourville.

Epidemiology, clinical characteristics, and treatment outcomes of leishmaniasis in Qatar: A retrospective study

Background: Leishmaniasis is an emerging tropical infectious disease in Qatar. It is caused by the protozoan parasite of the Leishmania genus, which is endemic in many regions of the world, including the Middle East. In Qatar, there is limited data about this disease, which is hindering the efficient planning and implementation of disease prevention and control measures. Therefore, to address this knowledge gap, we conducted a retrospective study to gather information on the prevalence, clinical characteristics, as well as outcomes of leishmaniasis treatment. The primary objective of this study is to provide a comprehensive analysis of leishmaniasis cases in Qatar over seven years (2016–2022). The findings of this study offer valuable insights that can guide the development of a national registry and treatment program for leishmaniasis in Qatar. Methods: Using a retrospective cross-sectional study design, clinical and epidemiological data of all documented cases of leishmaniasis in Qatar between 2016 and 2022 were collected from electronic medical records at Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC). Results: A total of sixty-eight cases of leishmaniasis were detected in Qatar between 2016 and 2022. Males were predominant (69.12%) with a median age of 33 years. Our study revealed a higher incidence of leishmaniasis among individuals of Syrian nationality, followed by Pakistani and Sudanese, thus promoting further investigation into the underlying factors contributing to this health disparity. Our findings revealed important epidemiological trends, highlighted key clinical characteristics, identified risk factors associated with susceptibility to leishmaniasis, and reported treatment outcomes. Conclusion: This retrospective study presents the first comprehensive analysis of leishmaniasis in Qatar, shedding light on the epidemiology, clinical characteristics, and treatment outcomes of the disease. The data generated from this study can serve as a guide for authorities in establishing a national registry and treatment program for leishmaniasis in Qatar. Implementing these measures will contribute to the effective management and control of leishmaniasis, ultimately improving patient outcomes and public health in the country.

Risk-Based Approach as a Basic Element of the Tax Security of the States in the BRICS Countries

This study is devoted to a comparative analysis of different models of the risk-based approach used in tax administration in the BRICS countries. The risk-based approach is widely recognized as the fundamental basis for defining and legally consolidating the tasks of tax administration bodies in modern conditions. According to this approach, the objectives of the tax administration are to identify, prevent and minimize threats to tax security in the course of the implementation of the full range of administrative functions in the tax sphere, as well as to work towards overcoming the consequences of the realization of threats. The authors propose the following points for conducting a comparison of the BRICS countries using tax risk assessment: the implementation of risk assessment in the practice of tax administration and the quality of its legislative regulation, the impact of risk indicators on the behavior of taxpayers and the impact of risk indicators on the effective implementation of tax control measures. In general, there is a high degree of similarity among all aspects of the risk-based approaches adopted in the BRICS countries. However, the methods of implementation and levels of legal certainty in laws differ from country to country.

Spatial distribution and sequential sampling plan for Oligonychus punicae (Acari: Trombidiformes: Tetranychidae) on grapevine.

Sequential sampling plans are employed for the rapid characterization of infestations to facilitate decision-making. This study aimed to (i) investigate the spatial distribution of Oligonychus punicae (Hirst) in grapevine crops, (ii) determine the most representative branch, leaf, and leaf region for monitoring, and (iii) develop a sequential sampling plan for decision-making to control O. punicae in the table grape varieties Arra 15, BRS Vitória, Cotton Candy, Sugar Crisp, and Timpson at different phenological stages. O. punicae distribution was analyzed across all varieties and developmental stages. Notably, O. punicae distribution varied among the tested varieties, with no consistent pattern observed in branches and leaves. However, a distinct distribution pattern was evident within leaves, with larger populations concentrated in the central regions. The lower and upper economic thresholds implement control measures varied according to the phenological stage, with the lower thresholds (economic threshold) set at 36% and the upper thresholds (economic injury level) at 40%. Consequently, a minimum of 3 and maximum of 20 plants were sampled. Overall, this study provides a robust approach to optimizing resource allocation and minimizing the environmental impact of O. punicae management.

The CHIKUNGUNYA FEVER SURVEILLANCE, OUTBREAK INVESTIGATION, RESPONSE AND ITS DETERMINANTS FACTORS IN PESHAWAR, PAKISTAN: A DESCRIPTIVE AND UNMATCHED CASE-CONTROL STUDY

Background: Chikungunya is a viral disease transmitted by Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes. It is characterized by fever, joint pain, and rash. The first officially confirmed outbreak in Peshawar, Pakistan, was identified in Shamshatoo Camp, which is an Afghan refugee settlement, in 2024. The objective of this study was to identify the determinants of the outbreak, access the magnitude of the outbreak, and implement control measures. Methods: The study design was a descriptive study followed by an unmatched case-control study (1:1 ratio) conducted between October 10 and November 26, 2024. Data were collected by administering structured questionnaires, active case search, and review of health facility records. In all, 154 cases were recruited and an equal number of controls. Univariate and multivariable logistic regression were computed to determine the relationship between the outcome and associated factors. Mosquito breeding sites were noted in the environmental survey, and later, laboratory testing confirmed 14 positive chikungunya cases out of 43 samples. Results: During the outbreak a total of 416 cases were reported with the peak on November 1, 2024 (32 cases). Females constituted 55% of the total cases and the most affected group belonged to the age group 10–19 years. Other significant risk factors were the presence of mosquito larvae in households (OR 3.2; 95% CI 2.0–5.2), open storage containers for water (OR 3.0; 95% CI 2.0–4.9), and less use of mosquito protection measures (OR 3.4; 95% CI 1.7–6.8). Precaution measures on awareness against vector-borne diseases showed protective effects (OR 0.03; 95% CI 0.01–0.14). Conclusion: The outbreak was driven by inadequate mosquito control, favourable climatic conditions (20–30 °C), and community laxity in eliminating breeding sites. Targeted interventions, including vector control, health education, and distribution of insecticide-treated nets, contributed to the decline in cases. However, the absence of a dedicated health facility and poor health-seeking behaviour remain challenges. Comprehensive surveillance and community engagement are essential to prevent future outbreaks.

Vehicle Travel Time Prediction Based on SSA-LSTM

Highway travel time, defined as the time difference between a vehicle entering and exiting the highway, is primarily influenced by factors such as the highway's characteristics, current road conditions, and the driver's behavior. Travel time is a crucial parameter for assessing the operational state of a highway and serves as an important reference for both drivers when selecting routes and for traffic managers in implementing control measures. Therefore, predicting highway travel time is of significant importance. Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) is a type of recurrent neural network, an improved version of the traditional recurrent neural network, known for its excellent performance in predicting sequential data, such as time-series data on highway travel times. In operations research, search optimization algorithms have been a key area of focus in conjunction with machine learning. The Sparrow Search Algorithm (SSA), a relatively new search optimization algorithm, boasts high convergence speed and accuracy, along with strong global search capabilities, reducing the risk of getting trapped in local optima. This study utilizes vehicle entry and exit data collected by the ETC system at the Jin-Gang Expressway toll stations to analyze the highway's basic information. Building upon the traditional LSTM model, we integrate the SSA to optimize the LSTM model parameters. By using SSA to search for the optimal parameters, we form a new SSA-LSTM model. Finally, we apply this model to predict travel time data, showing a 120% improvement in prediction accuracy compared to the original LSTM model.

Maize Yield and Quality Response to Lepidoptera Pest Control in Different Periods in South China

Maize is a major cereal crop worldwide, and its stable production is essential for national and global food security. Pests are among the key factors affecting the yield and quality of maize. Therefore, it is crucial to evaluate the yield recovery and quality losses after implementing control measures against pests during different periods. In this study, we investigated the population dynamics of the main maize pests in South China and assessed the yield and quality of maize treated with measures for the effective control of these pests during different periods. The results showed that the fall armyworm (FAW), Spodoptera frugiperda, was the most severe pest of autumn maize. There was a 10.02% decrease in ear weight when no control measures were taken at the fourth-leaf stage, and there were 80.45% and 76.09% increases in the damage index when no control measures were taken at the tasseling and blister stages, respectively. Additionally, the tannin content in maize kernels increased by 26.28% when no pest control measures were taken throughout the entire growing period. These findings will increase farmers’ knowledge regarding the detrimental effects of the FAW and provide a theoretical basis for the reasonable and timely control of maize pests.

Antibiotic susceptibility testing and molecular characterization based on whole-genome sequencing of Streptococcus pneumoniae isolates from pediatric infections at the National Regional Medical Center of Southwest China during the COVID-19 pandemic

BackgroundStreptococcus pneumoniae is a transmitted respiratory pathogen that causes high morbidity and mortality in children, especially those under 5 years of age. During the implementation of population control measures for COVID-19 in mainland China, the Streptococcus pneumoniae detection rate in pediatric patients decreased. However, with the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic (2022), the incidence of pneumococcal disease (PD) and even invasive pneumococcal disease (IPD) began to rise again.MethodsThis study was conducted from August 2022 to September 2023 at a national regional medical center based mainly in West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University. The demographic and clinical characteristics of S. pneumoniae-infected pediatric patients were analyzed. All S. pneumoniae isolates were subjected to standardized clinical sample inoculation, culture, subculture, and identification procedures. Next-generation sequencing and analysis were used to determine serotypes and sequence types (STs) and evaluate antibiotic resistance- and virulence-related genes. Antimicrobial susceptibility was determined in AST dishes via the broth microdilution method.ResultsThe prevalent serotypes in the IPD patients were 14, 6A, and 23F, and the prevalent serotypes in the NIPD patients were 19F and 6A. A significant difference in the proportion of patients with serotype 14 was noted between the two groups. A total of 23 STs were identified and classified into 13 different GPSC lineages, including 4 novel STs (ST18449, ST18451, ST18464 and ST18466) and 1 novel allele (ddl1209). According to the interpretation breakpoints for non-meningitis infections, the resistance/nonsusceptibility rates of invasive isolates were as follows: penicillin (0.0%/8.3%), amoxicillin (0.0%/0.0%), cefotaxime (8.3%/16.6%), ceftriaxone (8.3%/8.3%), and cefepime (0.0%/8.3%). The resistance/nonsusceptibility rates of invasive isolates according to the meningitis breakpoints were as follows: penicillin (100.0%), cefotaxime (16.7%/33.4%), ceftriaxone (8.3%/50.0%), and cefepime (8.3%/66.7%). All the isolates were susceptible to rifampicin, levofloxacin, moxifloxacin, linezolid and vancomycin. In addition, the characteristics of the antibiotic resistance-related genes and virulence genes of serotype 19F were significantly different from those of the other serotypes.ConclusionThese data provide valuable information for understanding pediatric pneumococcal disease during the second outbreak of COVID-19 in Southwest China and will contribute to the prevention and treatment of S. pneumoniae infection.

Monitoring and Signaling of the Most Important Aphid Species in the Territory of Greater Poland and Silesia Provinces

Aphids are significant pests affecting crop yields both through direct feeding and as vectors of viruses. The monitoring focused on 10 of the most important aphid species. This study investigates the dynamics of aphid populations in two Polish regions, Winna Góra (Greater Poland Province) and Sośnicowice (Silesia Province), over a five-year period (2019–2023) using Johnson suction traps. Data collection covered species composition, migration timing, and seasonal variations in aphid abundance. Dominance patterns were assessed using a species-specific index, and inter-regional comparisons were analyzed through correlation and principal component analysis. Results indicate notable population peaks during autumn, suggesting this period is optimal for implementing control measures. The Johnson traps proved valuable for timely pest monitoring, offering predictive potential for future aphid migration, particularly in relation to virus-transmitting species critical to plants.