Window Screens Research Articles

Diminished retinal microcirculation in mild preeclampsia without obvious retinopathy in high-altitude native Tibetans by OCTA

BackgroundTo investigate the retinal microcirculation in mild preeclampsia (PE) without obvious retinopathy in high-altitude native Tibetans by optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA). MethodsThis study enrolled 64 mild preeclamptic pregnant women without retinopathy (group PPW), 63 healthy pregnant women (group HPW), and 61 healthy non-pregnant women (group HNPW). All participants were high-altitude native Tibetans who underwent OCTA, retinal thickness (RT), vascular density (VD), perfusion density (PD) and foveal avascular zone (FAZ) parameters were measured in the macula. Differences in these parameters among the groups were compared, and the correlations of these parameters with blood pressure were evaluated. ResultsIn the entire macula, VD and PD were significantly lower in group PPW than in group HPW and HNPW (p < 0.05). In the subregions, VD was significantly different in fovea, parafovea and perifovea, PD was significantly different in parafovea and perifovea among the three groups (p < 0.05), the further pairwise comparisons showed VD and PD in parafovea and perifovea were lower in group PPW than in group HPW, and VD and PD in perifovea were lower in group PPW than in group HNPW (p < 0.05). RT and FAZ parameters did not differ among the groups (P > 0.05). VD and PD exhibited negative correlations with SBP and DBP (p < 0.05). ConclusionOCTA can objectively evaluate diminished microcirculation in mild PE without obvious retinopathy among high-altitude native Tibetans, and provide a crucial time window for early screening of PE-induced retinopathy.

Fourth-Generation HIV Rapid Tests: Enhanced Sensitivity and Reduced Diagnostic Window for HIV-1 Primary Infection Screening.

As most HIV rapid tests (HRT) detect only HIV-1/2 antibodies, their performance during primary HIV infection is poor. Determine HIV Early detect (Abbott) (Determine) is the only HRT with an HIV-1 p24-antigen detection, but the impact of this addition in shortening the diagnostic window remains unclear. A total of 183 HIV-1 primary infection samples were tested using the HRTs Determine and ONE STEP anti-HIV (1&2) Test (InTec Products) (One-Step). The pre-seroconversion subgroup was defined as p24-antigen positivity without Western blot nor Liaison XL (fouth generation enzyme immunoassay with distinct signal for p24-antigen and HIV-1 antibody) HIV-1 antibodies. Global sensitivity (95% CI) was 95% (91-97) for Determine versus 80% (74%-85%) for One-Step (difference p = 1.38e-06). Pre-seroconversion subgroup sensitivity was lower, at 71.9 (54.6%-84.4%) for Determine and 9.7% (3.3%-24.9%) for One-Step. Among the 45 samples with an HIV-1 infection date, no HRT was reactive up to 2 weeks. Between 2 and 3 weeks, Determine sensitivity was 78% (45%-95%) versus 56% (27%-81%) for One-Step. From 3 weeks to 1 month Determine sensitivity was 90% (62%-98%) and One-Step 45% (21%-72%). The last negative sample occurred at 3 weeks for Determine versus 70-90 days for One-Step. HRT with p24-antigen detection significantly shortens the diagnostic window from approximatively 3 months to 1 month. HRTs should be used with caution in the first month after HIV infection.

Experimental evaluation of subjective thermal perceptions for different local window screenings

In tropical climate, restricting convective gain while allowing cross ventilation creates paradoxical difficulty regarding indoor thermal comfort. Changing global climate gives new dimensions to the scenario results in subsequent pressure on increasing energy demand towards thermal comfort. Passive techniques can be a good way to dealt with the problem. However, occupants’ thermal perception may vary from person to person for a definite indoor environmental setup. Perception of subjective thermal comfort is crucial for human health and wellbeing which in turns effects performance. In the current study evaluation of subjective thermal performance regarding improved indoor thermal comfort has been studied for three different local window screening: i) plastic bottle with its wider face towards wind direction, ii) plastic bottle with its narrower face towards wind direction and iii) perforated bamboo screen. Six subjects: four female and two male (ages between 22-24), have been investigated for 30mins. in an experimental simulation chamber for three consecutive days. Questionnaire regarding thermal sensation and perception has been prepared to collect subjective response at 10mins. interval. From the experiment it is seen that subjective responses varies for different window screenings as well as for a specific indoor thermal condition created with definite screening. Subjects find the indoor environment comfortable for screening with plastic bottle with its wider face towards wind direction compared to other two. Bamboo screening has comparatively better performance than the screening plastic bottle with its narrower face towards wind direction. The current analysis only considers the thermal sensation of the subject and further extension of study considering factors like the subject's site-specific thermal sensation and other psychological effects can contribute towards improving indoor thermal comfort in tropics towards human health and wellbeing.

Effect of multi-modal input to the perception of sound quality

The perception of sound quality of car interior noise is treated. The decisive factor of sound quality is car interior noise itself but our percetion varies also by the symultaneous exposure of seat and steenring wheel vibrations and the moving seanary from the window screen. We have conducted subjective experiments on the perception of car interior noise unsing car simulator located inside the sound proof room to see the effect of seat and steering wheel vibration and moving sceenary to our perception on sound quality such as pleasantness, booming sensation and powefulness. As the results, the addition of moving sceenary and seat-floor vibration together with the steering wheel viration have significant effect to our perception of sound quality.

Diagnostic Transitions of Cystic Fibrosis and CRMS Compared After 12 Years of Newborn Screening in California

To compare the long-term diagnostic transitions for cystic fibrosis (CF) and CF-Related Metabolic Syndrome (CRMS) side-by-side during follow-up since the onset of newborn screening in California. Using real-world data, we conducted a retrospective cohort study to compare long-term observations of CRMS and CF in California and the diagnostic transitions from one to the other using clinical and diagnostic metrics. The California Genetic Disease Screening Program (GDSP) newborn screening for CF employs an immunoreactive trypsinogen tier-1 laboratory test, followed by molecular testing. This approach captures CF and CRMS, a diagnosis of "watchful waiting" among infants at risk for CF but with signs and symptoms that may emerge outside the screening window. Waiting entails periodic diagnostic reviews that can continue for many years; GDSP routinely conducts five years of follow-up for each child identified with a disorder. We utilized categorial logistic regression to compare the transitions with CRMS. After screening 5,944,700 newborns between July 2007 and July 2019, 694 CF cases and 1,258 CRMS cases were identified. Of the 1,258 CRMS cases, 66 (5.2%, 95% CI=3.9%,6.4%) transitioned from CRMS to CF (CRMS2CF) at a mean age of 3.3 years (median=2.9 years). CRMS2CF cases had longer follow-up periods and were more likely later to develop positive sweat chloride and fecal elastase test results after 6 months of life than other CRMS cases. These results suggest that children who have a CRMS2CF transition are more likely to develop positive biochemical markers than other CRMS patients and have few clinical indications during the first five years of follow-up.

Epidemiologic, clinicopathologic, and diagnostic findings in pet rabbits with myxomatosis caused by the California MSW strain of myxoma virus: 11 cases (2022-2023).

To determine epidemiologic features of naturally occurring myxomatosis in domestic rabbits in California and to characterize clinicopathologic and diagnostic findings. 11 client-owned rabbits, Oryctolagus cuniculus subsp domesticus. A prospective study of pet rabbits with myxomatosis seen at an exotic animal specialty clinic in Santa Cruz county, California, was conducted between January 1, 2022, and December 31, 2023. Rabbits were included in the study if they had bilateral blepharedema and were PCR positive for myxoma virus. All infected rabbits had spent time outdoors. Common clinical signs included bilateral blepharedema (11/11), anogenital edema (10/11), rectal temperature ≥ 39.7 °C (5/9), and sudden death (4/11). Eyelid biopsies from all rabbits (11/11) were positive for myxoma virus by qualitative PCR followed by Sanger sequencing (100% nucleotide identity to strain MSW, also known as California/San Francisco 1950 [Genbank accession KF148065]). Most rabbits had keratinocytes containing eosinophilic intracytoplasmic viral inclusions in biopsies of edematous skin (8/11) and lymphocyte necrosis in the spleen (10/11). Immunohistochemistry identified myxoma virus in samples of skin, heart, lung, ileum, spleen, and lymph node. Clinical signs of myxomatosis caused by the MSW strain of myxoma virus are distinctive but subtle. Cases occur regularly in the Santa Cruz and San Jose regions of California. As infection with this virus is almost 100% fatal and no vaccine is available in the US, owners of domestic rabbits in endemic areas should keep their pets indoors or behind mosquito screens. Myxomatosis is a reportable disease in the US, and the appropriate state or federal agencies should be contacted when outbreaks occur.

Malaria Prevention Strategies in Kalimantan, Indonesia: A Secondary Analysis of 2018 Basic Health Research Data

Background: Kalimantan remains malaria-endemic, particularly in rural areas, where prevention efforts face challenges such as insecticide resistance and limited healthcare access. Despite available measures like insecticide-treated nets, gaps in understanding individual and household prevention practices persist, especially in relation to demographics and effectiveness in reducing malaria transmission.Purpose: This study aimed to examine the individual and household-level malaria prevention strategies utilized in rural Kalimantan and evaluate their effectiveness in reducing malaria incidence.Methods: The study is a secondary analysis of the 2018 Basic Health Research. A total of 67,155 respondents in Kalimantan were analyzed including respondent characteristics, memories of malaria infection, and individual and household malaria prevention efforts. Bivariate regression and multivariable logistic regression were used in data analysis.Results: Older participants were less likely to report having malaria, although self-reported malaria rates were higher among older respondents compared to younger ones. Women reported lower malaria rates than men, especially in South Kalimantan. Agricultural workers showed a higher likelihood of reporting malaria than the jobless, though not statistically significant. In West Kalimantan, the use of bed nets was associated with higher self-reported malaria rates (OR=1.838, 95% CI:1.147–2.943). Short-term use of Insecticide Treated Nets showed varying odds across provinces: Central Kalimantan (OR = 3.659, 95% CI 1.378–9.717), South Kalimantan (OR = 10.811, 95% CI 3.649–32.030), East Kalimantan (OR = 2.615, 95% CI 1.041–6.567), and West Kalimantan (OR = 2.428, 95% CI 1.446–4.078). In all provinces, preventive measures such as coils or electric mats reduced self-reported malaria cases. The use of mosquito screens was effective in South Kalimantan (OR = 0.208, 95% CI 0.027–1.598), Central Kalimantan (OR = 0.365, 95% CI 0.120–2.181), and North Kalimantan (OR = 0.000, 95% CI 0.000–0.000). The multivariate model highlighted mosquito nets as the most effective household-scale prevention in nearly all Kalimantan provinces, except North Kalimantan.Conclusion: This study shows that individuals aged 25 and over, women, non-farmers, and those using insecticide-treated nets (ITNs) and other preventive measures, especially in rural areas, were less likely to report malaria, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions from local health authorities

A Simple Window Screen to Create Electric Discharges for Repelling and Exterminating Stable Flies and Houseflies in Cattle Barns

A Simple Window Screen to Create Electric Discharges for Repelling and Exterminating Stable Flies and Houseflies in Cattle Barns

Neutral‐Colored Transparent Radiative Cooler by Tailoring Solar Absorption with Punctured Bragg Reflectors

Abstract Daytime radiative cooling (DRC) has emerged as a promising method for temperature reduction of surfaces exposed to sunlight, without energy consumption. Despite advancements in DRC design, existing reflector‐based methodologies often lack transparency because of visible reflection, hindering the widespread application of this technology using glass. Efforts to address this challenge have led to the development of transparent radiative cooling (TRC), although efficient cooling during daylight remains challenging because of the dominant solar energy absorption. This paper proposes a novel TRC design comprising a polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) emitter atop a transparent dual‐reflector structure. An optimized Bragg reflector (OBR) and a 90 µm‐hole‐punctured Ag window screen reflector (WR) are used to reflect band A of the near‐infrared (NIR) spectrum (0.74 &lt; λ &lt; 1.4 µm) and the overall solar spectrum, respectively. During the daytime, the proposed TRC lowers the temperature by 22.1 °C through the transparent dual reflector system, compared to a PDMS‐coated glass. Thus, this approach optimizes the balance between solar reflection and visibility using a dual reflector, offering an optimal solution for applications requiring both cooling and transparency.

Patterns and predictors of malaria among head porters: a mobile population in Ghana

BackgroundHead porters popularly known as ‘Kayayeis in Ghana, face challenges in accessing essential health care services due to the mobile nature of their trade, low formal education, poor settlements, low-income among others. Kayayeis are predominantly females and form part of the mobile population who are at increased risk of malaria infection. Despite their increased risk of malaria, mobile populations are difficult to target for malaria interventions, hence serving as potential drivers of transmission even if malaria in the general population is controlled. The study, therefore, assessed the patterns and predictors of malaria among the Kayayei population in Ghana to inform policy decisions.MethodsA mixed methods study was conducted among Head-porters and their leaders in the three main hubs of Head-porters in Ghana; namely Accra, Kumasi, and Tamale. Blood samples were collected from participants and tested for malaria parasites using Rapid Diagnostic Test (RDT). Additionally, data including socio-demographics, malaria knowledge, attitude and practice were collected using a semi-structured questionnaire. Associations between malaria status and participants characteristics were determined by logistic regression (p < 0.05). Thematic analysis was used to analyse transcripts from the key informant interviews.ResultsOut of 754 head porters studied, 10.48% (79) tested positive for malaria. The majority 43.10% (325/754) of the head porters were twenty years and below, and most 67.11% (506/754) had no formal education. Nearly half (50.4%) were not on any health insurance. Receiving malaria education in the past 6 months [AOR = 0.48, (0.26–0.88), p-value 0.02], and having poor knowledge of malaria [AOR = 2.23, (1.26–4.27), p < 0.02], were the factors significantly associated with malaria infection.ConclusionThe prevalence of malaria among ‘Kayayei’s was estimated at 10.46%. A majority of them sleeps outside and in structures without mosquito screens. Receiving malaria education in the past 6 months reduced the odds of malaria infection whilst poor knowledge of malaria increased the odds of malaria infection among the porters. The authors recommend that the National Malaria Elimination Programme and partners should provide long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLIN) and other outdoor interventions for use by this special group. Designated state institutions should arrange free National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) registration for ‘Kayayeis’ to narrow the health access gap.

Effectiveness of housing design features in malaria prevention: architects’ perspective

Introduction: This research aimed to assess housing design consideration features and architects’ perceptions of their effectiveness in malaria prevention. Previous studies have highlighted various architectural design elements that can reduce mosquito entry into homes, thus contributing to malaria prevention. This study aims to build on these insights by evaluating specific design features and gathering professional opinions on their effectiveness.Methods: The methodological approach adopted was quantitative, with data collected using a structured questionnaire containing closed-ended questions and a checklist. The observation checklist was used to ascertain mosquito entry reduction features incorporated in 208 systematically selected houses in Garneton East, Kitwe, Zambia. Additionally, a structured questionnaire containing fourteen key design features identified from the literature was administered to 76 architects purposively sampled to establish their perceptions of the effectiveness of these design factors in malaria prevention. Data collected was analyzed using descriptive statistics and exploratory factor analysis.Results: The findings revealed that most houses needed to incorporate design features to reduce mosquito entry. The common features incorporated were ceilings (86.80%), screened air ventilation (59.80%), and window screens (54.40%). The use of window and door screens, as well as mosquito-repellent paint, were perceived as the most effective measures by the architects.Discussion: The results suggest a keen awareness among architects regarding the efficacy of certain design features in malaria prevention. Despite this awareness, the implementation of these features in actual housing designs needs to be improved. This indicates a need for greater effort and adaptation in building regulations to promote the use of mosquito entry reduction features. Enhancing housing designs with these features can significantly reduce malaria morbidity and mortality. Therefore, it is recommended that building regulations be updated to support and encourage the incorporation of mosquito entry reduction features in housing designs.

Malaria infection and associated household level risks in an urban and rural areas of West Bengal, India.

Malaria is one of the critical public health problems globally as well as in India. Recent times have seen an increase in the importance of the possible effects of environmental and demographic factors on the local transmission of malaria. We conducted a community-level study between urban and rural areas to find out the factors associated with malaria infection. A community-based observational cross-sectional study was conducted between October 2020 and September 2022 among 330 households from urban areas of Chetla, Kolkata and rural areas of Singur district of West Bengal state of India. Households were selected by two stage random sampling method. Study was done by face-to-face interview, review of medical records and observation of the households. SPSS software was used for data analysis. Multivariable logistic regression (hierarchical model) was done and p-value equal to or less than 0.05 was taken as significant. The prevalence of malaria infection among participants and household level risks of malaria infection were found to be 6.1%, 1.8% and 18.8%, 6.7%, respectively in the urban and rural areas. Significant predictors of malaria infection were households with ≥5 family members [AOR=2.91{CI (1.19-7.15)}], households not using any mosquito protective measures [AOR=3.71{CI (1.04-13.13)}], presence of mosquito breeding places [AOR=4.93{CI (1.53-15.93)}], absence of effective window screen [AOR=3.19{CI (1.16-8.71)}], absence of separate kitchen [AOR=2.38{CI (1.06-5.34)}], and inadequate lighting condition in the house [AOR=4.35{CI (1.78-10.64)}]. This study provides important insights into the epidemiology of malaria in a high and low-transmission setting in West Bengal, India. Intensified efforts strengthening community mobilization for preventing breeding places for mosquito. Policy should strengthen investment in housing programs that may complement reduction of malaria transmission. Disease reduction effects of Government and local non-governmental organizations should be directed towards those areas in order to decrease disease load.

Compliance of private ventilated improved pit latrines to odour and fly control guidelines: A technical audit in selected regions of Ghana

The ventilated improved pit (VIP) latrine offers a promising route to safely managed sanitation to many households in developing countries. However, some technical guidelines must be followed in order to realise the technology's advantage of odour and fly nuisance control. This study sought to audit private VIP latrines in selected regions of Ghana to assess their compliance to conventional technical guidelines and to understand the major factors that influence the latrine designs. An inspection checklist was developed to assess 296 private VIP latrines in the Central, Ashanti and Northern Regions of Ghana while semi-structured interviews were conducted among the latrine owners to enquire the factors that influenced the designs of their latrines. The results show that provision of a window in the superstructure (86 %), and the avoidance of an insect screen in the window(s) (77 %) were the most complied guidelines. The use of 150 mm diameter vent pipe was the least satisfied guideline (5 %). On the average, a latrine satisfied about half (3.6) of the technical guidelines that were assessed. The decision or advice of local artisans is the most influential factor in the design of the latrines. Cost was the least mentioned factor cited by the latrine owners. There is the need to establish information desks at the various Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs) to guide prospective owners on the proper design and construction of the VIP latrine. In addition, toilet construction should be incorporated in the curriculum for the basic training of building and construction students in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions in Ghana. Further research is required to ascertain the basis of the decisions of local artisans and the potential impact of the use of accessories that are ‘borrowed’ from the WC toilet on odour and fly control in the latrine.

Rapid entomological assessment in eight high malaria endemic regencies in Papua Province revealed the presence of indoor and outdoor malaria transmissions

Malaria in eastern Indonesia remains high despite significant reduction and elimination in other parts of the country. A rapid entomological assessment was conducted in eight high malaria endemic regencies of Papua Province, Indonesia, to expedite malaria elimination efforts in this region. This study aims to characterize specific, actionable endpoints toward understanding where and when malaria transmission is happening, where interventions may function best, and identify gaps in protection that result in continued transmission. The entomological assessment included identifying potential vectors through human landing catch (HLC), indoor morning and night resting collections, identification of larval sites through surveillance of water bodies, and vector incrimination toward understanding exposure to malaria transmission. Human landing catches (HLCs) and larval collections identified 10 Anopheles species, namely Anopheles koliensis, Anopheles punctulatus, Anopheles farauti, Anopheles hinesorum, Anopheles longirostris, Anopheles peditaeniatus, Anopheles tesselatus, Anopheles vagus, Anopheles subpictus and Anopheles kochi. The most common and abundant species found overall were An. koliensis and An. punctulatus, while An. farauti was found in large numbers in the coastal areas of Mimika and Sarmi Regencies. Vector incrimination on Anopheles collected from HLCs and night indoor resting demonstrated that An. koliensis and An. punctulatus carried Plasmodium in Keerom, Jayapura, and Sarmi Regencies. Analysis of HLCs for the most common species revealed that the An. koliensis and An. punctulatus, bite indoors and outdoors at equal rates, while An. farauti predominantly bite outdoors. Larval surveillance demonstrated that most water bodies in and surrounding residential areas contained Anopheles larvae. This study demonstrated indoor and outdoor exposure to mosquito bites and gaps in protection, enabling exposure to infectious bites in all regencies. This explains why current malaria control efforts focusing on indoor protection have failed to substantially reduce malaria incidence in the region. Optimization of insecticide-treated bed nets (ITNs), as well as installment of mosquito screens in houses, may further reduce indoor transmission. For outdoor transmission, the use of community-centric approaches to reduce or eliminate larval sources within and surrounding the village through the guidance of locally stationed entomologists, along with Social and Behavior Change mediated health education towards the local adoption of mosquito protection tools during outdoor activities, may reduce malaria transmission.

Simultaneous enhancements of UV-shielding properties and photostability of polyvinyl butyral by incorporation of MWCNTs

Polymer nanocomposites with proper reinforcement can simultaneously enhance both the UV-shielding and optical properties. Such composite materials are being investigated for many commercial applications, including automotive, window screens etc. However, the inherent challenge is maintaining transparency while using reinforcement to get better optical properties and UV resistance. In this study, Multiwall Carbon Nanotubes (MWCNTs) were reinforced for a range of content (0.5, 1.0, 1.5 and 2.0 wt%) in Polyvinyl Butyral (PVB) matrix to synthesize nanocomposite films for UV-shielding purposes. UV-shielding properties are enhanced as compared to PVB for all compositions. We were adding 0.5 wt% MWCNTs to PVB effectively improved UV wavelength blocking and slightly decreased visible light transparency. UV studies were performed in the 190–1100 nm wavelength range and the values of the absorption edge, direct and indirect bandgap energies and Urbach energy were evaluated. When 0.5 wt% MWCNTs were reinforced into the PVB, the direct and indirect bandgaps changed significantly from 4.50 to 4.91 eV–3.01 eV and 4.06 eV respectively, while the Urbach energy increased from 0.73 eV to 1.16 eV. These results show that the UV shielding and photostability of PVB nanocomposite films are significantly changed with the low dispersion of MWCNTs.

Improved efficiency of ion trapping time-of-flight mass spectrometry for the analysis of pesticide residues and mycotoxins at trace levels in baby food

The analysis of pesticide residues and mycotoxins in baby food demands exceptionally low limits of quantitation, necessitating the use of highly sensitive instruments capable of conducting trace analyses. High-resolution instruments typically fail to detect such low levels. However, the latest advancements in liquid time-of-flight technology, when coupled with ion trapping, enable ion enrichment, thereby improving detection levels. This allows for the analysis of these substances at low concentration levels, benefiting from enhanced mass accuracy. Additionally, the use of mass accuracy data helped eliminate matrix interferences, thereby enabling high-confidence identification. We developed a multi-residue method to analyse 219 pesticide residues and 9 mycotoxin residues in baby food matrices. Utilizing a QuEChERS-based extraction method, the samples were then analysed using an LC-ZenoTOF 7600 system with mass window screening acquisition. For pesticides, the limit of quantitation was 0.001–0.003 mg/kg for 81 % of the evaluated compounds, 0.005 mg/kg for 13 %, 0.010 mg/kg for 4 % and 0.020–0.030 for 2 %; good linearities were obtained at these levels. Apparent recoveries were evaluated at 0.003, 0.005, and 0.010 mg/kg. At the lowest recovery level, 93 % of compounds showed recoveries between 70 and 120 %. The rest of the compounds were in the range of 63–129 %, with relative standard deviation values below 20 %. For mycotoxins, the limits of quantitation ranged from 0.0001 to 0.100 mg/kg, with matrix-matched concentrations assessed within this range. Recoveries were evaluated at low concentration range (0.001–0.003 mg/kg) and high range (0.020–0.050) with apparent recoveries values between 92 and 140 %. Finally, a total of 31 commercial baby food samples were analysed using this method. The results indicated that 16 samples contained pesticide residues, while two samples were found to have mycotoxins.

Vectorial drivers of malaria transmission in Jabi Tehnan district, Amhara Regional State, Ethiopia

Among the factors affecting the effectiveness of malaria control is poor knowledge of the entomologic drivers of the disease. We investigated anopheline populations as part of a baseline study to implement house screening of windows and doors as a supplementary malaria control tool towards elimination in Jabi Tehnan district, Amhara Regional State of Ethiopia. The samples were surveyed monthly using CDC light traps between June 2020 and May 2021. Mosquito trap density (< 3 mosquitoes/trap) was low, however, with a high overall Plasmodium sporozoite rate (9%; indoor = 4.3%, outdoor = 13.1%) comprising P. falciparum (88.9%) and P. vivax (11.1%). Anopheles gambiae s.l., mostly An. arabiensis, comprised > 80% of total anopheline captures and contributed ~ 42% of Plasmodium-infected mosquitoes. On the other hand, morphologically scored Anopheles funestus s.l., constituting about 6% of anopheline collections, accounted for 50% of sporozoite-infected mosquitoes. Most of the infected An. funestus s.l. specimens (86.7%) were grouped with previously unknown or undescribed Anopheles species previously implicated as a cryptic malaria vector in the western Kenyan highlands, confirming its wider geographic distribution in eastern Africa. Other species with Plasmodium infection included An. longipalpis C, An. theileri, An. demillioni, and An. nili. Cumulatively, 77.8% of the infected mosquitoes occurred outdoors. These results suggest efficient malaria parasite transmission despite the low vector densities, which has implications for effective endpoint indicators to monitor malaria control progress. Additionally, the largely outdoor infection and discovery of previously unknown and cryptic vectors suggest an increased risk of residual malaria transmission and, thus, a constraint on effective malaria prevention and control.

Innovative launch collision avoidance (LCOLA) tool prioritizing accuracy, launch access and efficiency

A new Launch Collision Avoidance (LCOLA) analysis capability is presented. The method represents the combination of the patented algorithm developed by Analytical Graphics Inc. and implemented in its Launch Window Analysis (LWA) tool, together with a new LCOLA collision probability algorithm developed by COMSPOC Corporation to maximize launch window using responsive, comprehensive, and efficient LCOLA closure windows. The new tool works by assessing the underlying topography of the launch closure problem to identify and characterize all launch holds within the user-specified launch window rapidly and accurately without confining the launch operator to “top-of-the-minute” or other such constructs.This new LCOLA capability avoids the pitfalls of the typical “digitized” or “snapshot” launch window screening approach, where launch objects are compared against the on-orbit catalogue at a small launch “T-zero” step size.The new capability can detect launch closure holds based upon miss distance, collision probability or both. Prior to the probability calculation, each covariance is tested for positive definiteness and remediated if necessary. The tool's support for parallel processing, combined with its algorithmic efficiency, allow it to process all deployed objects. The tool aggregates all resulting launch holds into a concise report for the launch director and team.

Evaluation of Interactions between Malaria Vector Control Practices and Demographic Parameters in Selected Communities in Abia State, South-East, Nigeria

Malaria, transmitted by Anopheles mosquitoes has become a debilitating and burdensome disease in Sub-Saharan Africa and conventional practices such as Long-Lasting Insecticide Treated Nets (LLITNs), and Indoor Residual Spraying (IRS) and unconventional practices are usually employed as malaria vector control measures. Hence, the objective of this paper was to evaluate the interactions that exist between these control practices and demographic parameters in selected communities across Ikwuano, Osisioma and Ohafia Local Government Areas (LGAs) of Abia State, South-East, Nigeria using multi-stage sampling technique with five hundred and ten structured questionnaires. Data obtained reveals that the predominant control practices were IRS (325; 63.7%), although it was used in combination with other control methods. This was followed by screening of windows with net (221; 43.3%), whereas only a few respondents used LLITNs. Respondent’s LGA, level of education, type of dwelling structure and household size had significant relationship with most of the malaria vector control practices/perceptions (P &lt; 0.05). However, gender had no significant relationship with any of the malaria vector control practices/perceptions (P &gt; 0.05). Effectiveness (306; 60.0%) was the major reason behind choice of method practiced. Respondents also chose methods that were cheap (175; 34.3%) and prevented contact with mosquitoes (154; 30.2%), but attested to not being aware of any recent Government/Non-Governmental (NGO) mosquito control intervention (386; 75.7%). Considering the low ownership and usage of LLITNs in Abia, efforts should be made towards more distribution. Control programs are advised to consider LGA, level of education, household size, and type of dwelling structure during the design and deployment of interventions.

Transparent Nanofibrous Membranes with Optimized Optical Channel Structure for Window Screens

AbstractNanofibrous membranes, characterized by their flexibility, high porosity, and tunable structure, are emerging as a promising contender for advanced transparent materials with sufficient breathability and pliability. However, the considerable surface light reflection and internal light scattering of nanofibrous membranes pose a challenging task in achieving transparency. In this study, transparent nanofibrous membranes are fabricated by constructing a topological structure with optimized optical transmission channels, which provide the minimum equivalent thickness to minimize light loss in nanofibrous membranes. The resultant fabricated membrane exhibits a high light transmittance of up to 81%, along with a sufficient porosity of 84% and flexibility. Additionally, the membrane demonstrated effective PM0.3–10 removal efficiency (&gt;91%), low air pressure drops (&lt;110 Pa), high air permeability (≈104 mm s−1), and good waterproof performance. Therefore, the prepared transparent nanofibrous membrane may serve as a transparent air filtration window screen to enhance indoor comfort for people.