Electrochemical biosensors for point-of-care testing

Point-of-care testing(POCT)is the practice of diagnosing and monitoring diseases where the patient is located,as opposed to traditional treatment conducted solely in a medical laboratory or other clinical setting.POCT has been less common in the recent past due to a lack of portable medical devices capable of facilitating effective medical testing.However,recent growth has occurred in this field due to advances in diagnostic technologies,device miniaturization,and progress in wearable electronics.Among these developments,electrochemical sensors have attracted interest in the POCT field due to their high sensitivity,compact size,and affordability.They are used in various applications,from disease diagnosis to health status monitoring.In this paper we explore recent advancements in electrochemical sensors,the methods of fabricating them,and the various types of sensing mechanisms that can be used.Furthermore,we delve into methods for immobilizing specific biorecognition elements,including enzymes,antibodies,and aptamers,onto electrode surfaces and how these sensors are used in real-world POCT settings.

Effectiveness of Co-Testing in Cervical Cancer Screening Program in Macao SAR

Background: Cervical cancer remains a significant public health concern in Macao SAR despite the implementation of a cervical cancer screening program and HPV vaccination. To improve early detection, Macao SAR introduced HPV DNA testing alongside cytology (co-testing) as the primary screening method in 2019. This study evaluates the effectiveness of co-testing in identifying cervical precancerous lesions (CIN2+) compared to cytology alone. Methods: We conducted a retrospective analysis of women aged 30 - 65 years who participated in the routine cervical cancer screening program in Macao SAR Primary Healthcare Centers from 2019 to 2022. Data from over 70,000 women were analyzed, comparing the detection rates of CIN2+ through co-testing and cytology alone. Women with abnormal cytology or positive HPV results were referred for colposcopy. Results: The introduction of co-testing led to a significant increase in the detection of CIN2+, particularly in women with atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance (ASCUS) or negative for intraepithelial lesion or malignancy (NILM) cytology results. Between 2019 and 2022, the percentage of women with ASCUS/NILM and any high-risk HPV (hrHPV) positive who were diagnosed with CIN2+ after colposcopy were 24%, 13%, 10% and 7.5% respectively. This highlights the ability of co-testing to identify high-risk individuals who would have been missed by cytology alone. Discussion: Our findings demonstrate the effectiveness of co-testing in improving the sensitivity of cervical cancer screening in Macao SAR. The inclusion of HPV DNA testing allows for better risk stratification of women with ASCUS/NILM cytology, leading to more targeted referrals for colposcopy and timely detection of precancerous lesions. The initial high positive rate in 2019 (24%) might be attributed to the small sample size and potentially reflects a backlog of undiagnosed cases prior to co-testing implementation. Conclusion: The implementation of co-testing in Macao SAR’s cervical cancer screening program significantly improves the early detection of precancerous lesions, particularly in women with ambiguous cytology results. This proactive approach contributes to reducing cervical cancer morbidity and mortality and improving women’s health outcomes in Macao SAR.

Detection of internal crack growth in polyethylene pipe using guided wave ultrasonic testing

Despite the success of guided wave ultrasonic inspection for internal defect detection in steel pipes,its application on polyethylene(PE)pipe remains relatively unexplored.The growth of internal cracks in PE pipe severely affects its pressure-holding capacity,hence the early detection of internal cracks is crucial for effective pipeline maintenance strategies.This study extends the scope of guided wave-based ultrasonic testing to detect the growth of internal cracks in a natural gas distribution PE pipe.Laboratory experiments and a finite element model were planned to study the wave-crack interaction at different stages of axially oriented internal crack growth with a piezoceramic transducer-based setup arranged in a pitch-catch configuration.Mode dispersion analysis supplemented with preliminary experiments was performed to isolate the optimal inspection frequency,leading to the selection of the T(0,1)mode at 50-kHz for the investigation.A transmission index based on the energy of the T(0,1)mode was developed to trace the extent of simulated crack growth.The findings revealed an inverse linear correlation between the transmission index and the crack depth for crack growth beyond 20%crack depth.

Effectiveness of colonoscopy,immune fecal occult blood testing,and risk-graded screening strategies in colorectal cancer screening

BACKGROUND Colorectal cancer(CRC)is one of the most common malignant tumors,and early screening is crucial to improving the survival rate of patients.The combination of colonoscopy and immune fecal occult blood detection has garnered significant attention as a novel method for CRC screening.Colonoscopy and fecal occult blood tests,when combined,can improve screening accuracy and early detection rates,thereby facilitating early intervention and treatment.However,certain risks and costs accompany it,making the establishment of a risk classification model crucial for accurate classification and management of screened subjects.AIM To evaluate the feasibility and effectiveness of colonoscopy,immune fecal occult blood test(FIT),and risk-graded screening strategies in CRC screening.METHODS Based on the randomized controlled trial of CRC screening in the population conducted by our hospital May 2020 to May 2023,participants who met the requirements were randomly assigned to a colonoscopy group,an FIT group,or a graded screening group at a ratio of 1:2:2(after risk assessment,the high-risk group received colonoscopy,the low-risk group received an FIT test,and the FITpositive group received colonoscopy).The three groups received CRC screening with different protocols,among which the colonoscopy group only received baseline screening,and the FIT group and the graded screening group received annual follow-up screening based on baseline screening.The primary outcome was the detection rate of advanced tumors,including CRC and advanced adenoma.The population participation rate,advanced tumor detection rate,and colonoscopy load of the three screening programs were compared.RESULTS A total of 19373 subjects who met the inclusion and exclusion criteria were enrolled,including 8082 males(41.7%)and 11291 females(58.3%).The mean age was 60.05±6.5 years.Among them,3883 patients were enrolled in the colonoscopy group,7793 in the FIT group,and 7697 in the graded screening group.Two rounds of follow-up screening were completed in the FIT group and the graded screening group.The graded screening group(89.2%)and the colonoscopy group(42.3%)had the lowest overall screening participation rates,while the FIT group had the highest(99.3%).The results of the intentional analysis showed that the detection rate of advanced tumors in the colonoscopy group was greater than that of the FIT group[2.76%vs 2.17%,odds ratio(OR)=1.30,95%confidence interval(CI):1.01-1.65,P=0.037].There was no significant difference in the detection rate of advanced tumors between the colonoscopy group and the graded screening group(2.76%vs 2.35%,OR=1.9,95%CI:0.93-1.51,P=0.156),as well as between the graded screening group and the FIT group(2.35%vs 2.17%,OR=1.09%,95%CI:0.88-1.34,P=0.440).The number of colonoscopy examinations required for each patient with advanced tumors was used as an index to evaluate the colonoscopy load during population screening.The graded screening group had the highest colonoscopy load(15.4 times),followed by the colonoscopy group(10.2 times),and the FIT group had the lowest(7.8 times).CONCLUSION A hierarchical screening strategy based on CRC risk assessment is feasible for screening for CRC in the population.It can be used as an effective supplement to traditional colonoscopy and FIT screening programs.

Is there a need for universal double reflex testing of HBsAg-positive individuals for hepatitis D infection?

Hepatitis D virus(HDV)can infect HBsAg-positive individuals,causing rapid fibrosis progression,early decompensation,increased hepatocellular carcinoma risk,and higher mortality than hepatitis B virus(HBV)mono-infection.Most countries lack high-quality HDV prevalence data,and the collection techniques employed often bias published data.In recent meta-analyses,HDV prevalence in HBsAg-positive patients reaches 5%-15%and is even significantly higher in endemic areas.Since HBV vaccination programs were implemented,HDV prevalence has decreased among younger populations.However,owing to immigrant influx,it has increased in some Western countries.The current practice of HDV screening in HBsAg-positive individuals is stepwise,based on physician’s discretion,and limited to at-risk populations and may require numerous visits.Double reflex testing,which includes anti-HDV testing in all HBsAg-positive individuals and then HDV RNA testing for anti-HDV-positive ones,is uncommon.Reflex testing can identify more HDV infection cases and link identified patients to further care and follow-up.Moreover,laboratory-based double reflex screening is less biased than physician-led testing.Therefore,health-care providers should learn about reflex testing,and federal and provincial hepatitis control programs should implement laboratory-based double reflex testing to obtain reliable HDV prevalence estimates.The test’s cost-effectiveness depends on the number of HBV-positive patients screened to identify one HDV-positive patient.Such testing may be viable in areas with low HBsAg but high HDV prevalence.However,its economic impact on areas with low HDV prevalence needs further study.

Introduction and Prospects of Gravity-1 Launch Vehicle’s Sea-Based Three Verticals Testing and Launch Mode

Gravity-1 was the world's first carrier rocket to adopt the sea-based “three vertical” testing launch mode. This article introduces the overall layout of the launch site and the workflow of rocket testing and launch for its maiden flight mission. The process of vertical assembly, vertical testing, vertical transportation, and sea-based hot launches are explained. Additionally, it provides an outlook on the improved “three vertical” testing and launch mode for future missions, such as land-based launches, rapid launches, and remote sea launches.

Analysis of Standards Establishment for the Testing of Electrical Appliances

As science and technology continue to develop,power equipment has become an indispensable part of industrial production and daily life.Whether it is the precise automation machinery utilized on production lines or the convenient electrical appliances found in households,their functionality relies heavily on electrical technology.Nonetheless,without stringent safety and performance assurances,these devices could potentially endanger lives and property.Thus,this paper explores the development strategy for establishing a standardized system within the electrical testing service industry,aiming to ensure safety and reliability.

Acoustic Non-Destructive Testing Technology in Concrete Bridge Inspection and Pile Foundation Detection

This article takes the actual construction project of a certain concrete bridge project as an example to analyze the application of acoustic non-destructive testing technology in its detection.It includes an overview of a certain bridge construction project studied and acoustic non-destructive testing technology and the application of acoustic non-destructive testing technology in actual testing.This analysis hopes to provide some guidelines for acoustic non-destructive testing of modern concrete bridge projects.

基于PCNN图像融合的ECT多相流测量系统设计

针对ECT在多相流测量过程中存在的成像质量不高、精度低、稳定性差等问题,提出并实现了基于PCNN图像融合的ECT多相流测量系统。系统采用模块化设计,主要包括阵列电极传感器模块、电容采集电路模块、上位机成像软件模块。文中设计改进的网络模型,将Tikhonov和Landweber算法的成像结果作为输入进行双通道融合成像,改善了传统算法存在的伪影、模糊的现象。实验结果表明:应用尼龙棒模拟气固两相流对系统进行测试,系统对于微小电容的测量具有良好的稳定性和准确性,通过系统的成像结果可以准确地分辨管道内不同介质的位置,其中对于流型的预测成功率为100%,相含率的测量误差在1%以内。

miR-223-3p与ECT2表达在食管鳞状细胞癌组织中的相关性及与其预后的关系

目的探讨miR-223-3p与ECT2表达在食管鳞状细胞癌中的相关性及与其预后的关系。方法纳入85例食管鳞状细胞癌的石蜡包埋食管鳞状细胞癌组织、相应的正常食管黏膜组织。实时荧光定量PCR检测miR-223-3p与ECT2 mRNA水平,Pearson相关系数分析miR-223-3p与ECT2 mRNA表达水平的相关性。Kaplan-Meier生存分析和Cox比例风险模型分析miR-223-3p、ECT2表达对食管鳞状细胞癌预后的影响。结果ECT2高表达食管鳞状细胞癌患者46例,ECT2低表达食管鳞状细胞癌患者39例。ECT2 mRNA表达水平食管鳞状细胞癌组织高于正常食管黏膜组织,miR-223-3p表达水平食管鳞状细胞癌组织低于正常食管黏膜组织。ECT2表达水平与肿瘤大小、分化程度、TNM分期、血管侵犯相关。miR-223-3p表达水平与肿瘤大小、分化程度、TNM分期、血管侵犯相关。此外,食管鳞状细胞癌中miR-223-3p与ECT2 mRNA表达存在相关性(ρ=-0.5223,P<0.0001),miR-223-3p与ECT2蛋白表达存在相关性(χ^(2)=21.56,P<0.0001)。Kaplan-Meier生存分析显示:TNM分期、淋巴结转移、神经侵犯、miR-223-3p表达水平、ECT2表达水平对食管鳞状细胞癌患者的总生存期有影响。Cox比例风险模型发现TNM分期、淋巴结转移、神经侵犯、miR-223-3p表达水平、ECT2表达水平对总生存期有影响。结论miR-223-3p与ECT2的表达水平在食管鳞状细胞癌中存在相关性。TNM分期、淋巴结转移、神经侵犯、miR-223-3p表达水平、ECT2表达水平可作为ESCC的独立预后因素。

玉米ECT家族成员的全基因组分析及非生物胁迫下的响应表达

ECT结构域蛋白家族作为一种重要的转录后调控因子,在调控m6A修饰中发挥重要功能,在植物正常生长发育和响应逆境胁迫时的基因表达调控中具有重要作用。为了研究ECT结构域蛋白家族在玉米(Zea mays L.)非生物胁迫下的生长发育与胁迫响应中的功能,本研究采用生物信息学方法鉴定到玉米ECT家族成员22个,并分析其序列和结构特征、染色体分布、启动子顺式作用元件、GO富集、蛋白质互作网络和系统发育进化关系,通过实时荧光定量PCR(qRT-PCR)分析了玉米ZmECTs在冷胁迫以及不同激素处理下的表达模式。结果表明,玉米ECT家族成员分布在10条染色体上,编码的蛋白质所含氨基酸残基数目为119~748 aa,相对分子量(MW)范围为13412.17~81823.70 Da,等电点(pI)范围为5.43~8.82,大部分蛋白定位在细胞核。在ZmECT家族中共鉴定到10个motif。顺式作用元件分析结果表明,ZmECT家族成员启动子包含多个与胁迫、激素和生长发育相关的响应元件。GO富集分析结果显示,ZmECT家族成员可能参与mRNA的剪接和维持RNA稳定性。蛋白质互作网络预测,ZmECT6是该家族蛋白的核心成员。系统进化树显示,ZmECT家族成员分为4组。qRT-PCR结果显示,经不同激素处理后,ZmECT家族成员表现出复杂的响应模式,部分ZmECT家族成员响应冷胁迫。本研究结果为玉米ECT基因后续的生物学功能解析及分子机制研究提供了参考。

Comparative Analysis of Machine Learning Models for PDF Malware Detection:Evaluating Different Training and Testing Criteria

The proliferation of maliciously coded documents as file transfers increase has led to a rise in sophisticated attacks.Portable Document Format(PDF)files have emerged as a major attack vector for malware due to their adaptability and wide usage.Detecting malware in PDF files is challenging due to its ability to include various harmful elements such as embedded scripts,exploits,and malicious URLs.This paper presents a comparative analysis of machine learning(ML)techniques,including Naive Bayes(NB),K-Nearest Neighbor(KNN),Average One Dependency Estimator(A1DE),RandomForest(RF),and SupportVectorMachine(SVM)forPDFmalware detection.The study utilizes a dataset obtained from the Canadian Institute for Cyber-security and employs different testing criteria,namely percentage splitting and 10-fold cross-validation.The performance of the techniques is evaluated using F1-score,precision,recall,and accuracy measures.The results indicate that KNNoutperforms other models,achieving an accuracy of 99.8599%using 10-fold cross-validation.The findings highlight the effectiveness of ML models in accurately detecting PDF malware and provide insights for developing robust systems to protect against malicious activities.

On Dynamic Channel Emulation in Sector MPAC for Over-the-Air Testing of Beamformed Massive MIMO Devices

In this article,novel emulation strategies for the sectored multiple probe anechoic chamber(SMPAC)are proposed to enable the reliable evaluation of the massive multiple-input multiple-output(MIMO)device operating at beamforming mode,which requires a realistic non-stationary channel environment.For the dynamic propagation emulation,an efficient closed-form probe weighting strategy minimizing the power angular spectrum(PAS)emulation errors is derived,substantially reducing the associated computational complexity.On the other hand,a novel probe selection algorithm is proposed to reproduce a more accurate fading environment.Various standard channel models and setup configurations are comprehensively simulated to validate the capacity of the proposed methods.The simulation results show that more competent active probes are selected with the proposed method compared to the conventional algorithms.Furthermore,the derived closedform probe weighting strategy offers identical accuracy to that obtained with complicated numerical optimization.Moreover,a realistic dynamic channel measured in an indoor environment is reconstructed with the developed methodologies,and 95.6%PAS similarity can be achieved with 6 active probes.The satisfactory results demonstrate that the proposed algorithms are suitable for arbitrary channel emulation.

通过卷积神经网络分析ECT成像和临床检验数据评估糖尿病视网膜病变和糖尿病肾病之间的相关性

目的从影像学和临床检验数据综合评估2型糖尿病患者(T2DM)中糖尿病肾病(DN)和糖尿病视网膜病变(DR)的相关性。方法选取2021年3月至2022年12月就诊于资阳市第一人民医院的T2DM患者600例,所有患者均行眼底照相和荧光素眼底血管造影检查,收集患者年龄、性别、T2DM持续时间、心血管疾病、脑血管疾病、高血压、吸烟史、饮酒史、体重指数、收缩压和舒张压等临床数据。测量空腹血糖、甘油三酯、总胆固醇、高密度脂蛋白胆固醇、低密度脂蛋白胆固醇、糖化血红蛋白、24 h尿白蛋白、尿白蛋白/肌酐、血肌酐和血尿素氮水平。采用Logistic回归分析与DR相关的危险因素。根据眼底图片进行DR分期,采用卷积神经网络(CNN)算法作为图像分析方法,通过ECT成像技术和临床检验数据评估DR和DN之间的相关性。结果采用CNN算法进行分析,无明显DR、轻度非增生型DR(NPDR)、中度NPDR、重度NPDR和增生型DR(PDR)组患者的DR和DN病变面积率均高于采用传统算法(TCM)的结果。随着DR的加重,患者血肌酐、血尿素氮、24 h尿白蛋白和尿白蛋白/肌酐均逐渐升高,无明显DR、轻度NPDR、中度NPDR、重度NPDR和PDR组患者的DN发生率分别为1.67%、8.83%、16.16%、22.16%和30.83%。Logistic回归分析结果显示,T2DM持续时间、吸烟史、糖化血红蛋白、总胆固醇、甘油三酯、高密度脂蛋白胆固醇、低密度脂蛋白胆固醇、24 h尿白蛋白、血肌酐、血尿素氮、尿白蛋白/肌酐、肾小球滤过率是DR的独立危险因素。肾动态ECT成像分析结果表明,随着DR的加重,肾血流灌注逐渐减少,从而导致肾过滤功能下降。结论在T2DM患者中,CNN算法早期应用于DR和DN图像的分析,将有助于提高DR和DN病变面积诊断准确性,随着DR病变的加重,DN的严重程度逐渐增加。

Unbound^(28)O,the heaviest oxygen isotope observed:a cutting-edge probe for testing nuclear models

The beyond-dripline oxygen isotopes^(27,28)O were recently observed at RIKEN,and were found to be unbound decaying into^(24)O by emitting neutrons.The unbound feature of the heaviest oxygen isotope,^(28)O,provides an excellent test for stateof-the-art nuclear models.The atomic nucleus is a self-organized quantum manybody system comprising specific numbers of protons Z and neutrons N.

Tensile strength and failure behavior of rock-mortar interfaces: Direct and indirect measurements

The tensile strength at the rock-concrete interface is one of the crucial factors controlling the failure mechanisms of structures,such as concrete gravity dams.Despite the critical importance of the failure mechanism and tensile strength of rock-concrete interfaces,understanding of these factors remains very limited.This study investigated the tensile strength and fracturing processes at rock-mortar interfaces subjected to direct and indirect tensile loadings.Digital image correlation(DIC)and acoustic emission(AE)techniques were used to monitor the failure mechanisms of specimens subjected to direct tension and indirect loading(Brazilian tests).The results indicated that the direct tensile strength of the rock-mortar specimens was lower than their indirect tensile strength,with a direct/indirect tensile strength ratio of 65%.DIC strain field data and moment tensor inversions(MTI)of AE events indicated that a significant number of shear microcracks occurred in the specimens subjected to the Brazilian test.The presence of these shear microcracks,which require more energy to break,resulted in a higher tensile strength during the Brazilian tests.In contrast,microcracks were predominantly tensile in specimens subjected to direct tension,leading to a lower tensile strength.Spatiotemporal monitoring of the cracking processes in the rock-mortar interfaces revealed that they show AE precursors before failure under the Brazilian test,whereas they show a minimal number of AE events before failure under direct tension.Due to different microcracking mechanisms,specimens tested under Brazilian tests showed lower roughness with flatter fracture surfaces than those tested under direct tension with jagged and rough fracture surfaces.The results of this study shed light on better understanding the micromechanics of damage in the rock-concrete interfaces for a safer design of engineering structures.

Why is early detection of colon cancer still not possible in 2023?

Colorectal cancer(CRC)screening is a fundamental tool in the prevention and early detection of one of the most prevalent and lethal cancers.Over the years,screening,particularly in those settings where it is well organized,has succeeded in reducing the incidence of colon and rectal cancer and improving the prognosis related to them.Despite considerable advancements in screening technologies and strategies,the effectiveness of CRC screening programs remains less than optimal.This paper examined the multifaceted reasons behind the persistent lack of effect-iveness in CRC screening initiatives.Through a critical analysis of current methodologies,technological limitations,patient-related factors,and systemic challenges,we elucidated the complex interplay that hampers the successful reduction of CRC morbidity and mortality rates.While acknowledging the ad-vancements that have improved aspects of screening,we emphasized the necessity of addressing the identified barriers comprehensively.This study aimed to raise awareness of how important CRC screening is in reducing costs for this disease.Screening and early diagnosis are not only important in improving the prognosis of patients with CRC but can lead to an important reduction in the cost of treating a disease that is often diagnosed at an advanced stage.Spending more sooner can mean saving money later.

Knowledge,attitudes and experiences of genetic testing for autism spectrum disorders among caregivers,patients,and health providers:A systematic review

BACKGROUND Several genetic testing techniques have been recommended as a first-tier diagnostic tool in clinical practice for diagnosing autism spectrum disorder(ASD).However,the actual usage rate varies dramatically.This is due to various reasons,including knowledge and attitudes of caregivers,patients,and health providers toward genetic testing.Several studies have therefore been conducted worldwide to investigate the knowledge,experiences,and attitudes toward genetic testing among caregivers of children with ASD,adolescent and adult ASD patients,and health providers who provide medical services for them.However,no systematic review has been done.AIM To systematically review research on knowledge,experiences,and attitudes towards genetic testing among caregivers of children with ASD,adolescent and adult ASD patients,and health providers.METHODS We followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Metaanalyses guidelines and searched the literature in three English language databases(PubMed,Web of Science,and PsychInfo)and two Chinese databases(CNKI and Wanfang).Searched literature was screened independently by two reviewers and discussed when inconsistency existed.Information on characteristics of the study,characteristics of participants,and main findings regarding knowledge,experience,and attitudes of caregivers of children with ASD,adolescent and adult ASD patients,and health providers concerning ASD genetic testing were extracted from included papers into a charting form for analysis.RESULTS We included 30 studies published between 2012 and 2022 and conducted in 9 countries.Most of the studies(n=29)investigated caregivers of children with ASD,one study also included adolescent and adult patients,and two covered health providers.Most(51.0%-100%)of the caregivers/patients knew there was a genetic cause for ASD and 17.0%to 78.1%were aware of ASD genetic testing.However,they lacked full understanding of genetic testing.They acquired relevant and necessary information from physicians,the internet,ASD organizations,and other caregivers.Between 9.1%to 72.7%of caregivers in different studies were referred for genetic testing,and between 17.4%to 61.7%actually obtained genetic testing.Most caregivers agreed there are potential benefits following genetic testing,including benefits for children,families,and others.However,two studies compared perceived pre-test and post-test benefits with conflicting findings.Caregivers concerns included high costs,unhelpful results,negative influences(e.g.,causing family conflicts,causing stress/risk/pain to children etc.)prevented some caregivers from using genetic testing.Nevertheless,46.7%to 95.0%caregivers without previous genetic testing experience intended to obtain it in the future,and 50.5%to 59.6%of parents previously obtaining genetic testing would recommend it to other parents.In a single study of child and adolescent psychiatrists,54.9%of respondents had ordered ASD genetic testing for their patients in the prior 12 mo,which was associated with greater knowledge of genetic testing.CONCLUSION Most caregivers are willing to learn about and use genetic testing.However,the review showed their current knowledge is limited and usage rates varied widely in different studies.

Design,fabrication,and testing of an X-band 9-MeV standing-wave electron linear accelerator

In this study,an X-band standing-wave biperiodic linear accelerator was developed for medical radiotherapy that can accel-erate electrons to 9 MeV using a 2.4-MW klystron.The structure works atπ/2 mode and adopts magnetic coupling between cavities,generating the appropriate adjacent mode separation of 10 MHz.The accelerator is less than 600-mm long and constitutes four bunching cells and 29 normal cells.Geometry optimizations,full-scale radiofrequency(RF)simulations,and beam dynamics calculations were performed.The accelerator was fabricated and examined using a low-power RF test.The cold test results showed a good agreement with the simulation and actual measurement results.In the high-power RF test,the output beam current,energy spectrum,capture ratio,and spot size at the accelerator exit were measured.With the input power of 2.4 MW,the pulse current was 100 mA,and the output spot root-mean-square radius was approximately 0.5 mm.The output kinetic energy was 9.04 MeV with the spectral FWHM of 3.5%,demonstrating the good performance of this accelerator.

A Review of Index Case Testing Induced Intimate Partner Violence and Electronic Management of Information in HIV Care

Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) is a form of Gender Base Violence (GBV) where an intimate partner perpetrates violence. In the HIV care continua which has the aim of achieving epidemic control based on the goals defined by UNAIDS, 95% of people living with HIV (PLHIV) have to know their HIV status, 95% initiated ARV treatment and 95% are virally suppressed in order to achieve epidemic control. One of the evidence-based strategies used for achieving an optimal number of PLHIV who know their HIV status is the Index Case Testing Strategy (ICT). While the ICT strategy helps the achievement of epidemic control, its implementation increases the incidence of IPV among either serodiscordant or concordant couples. Tackling information about IPV is very sensitive. A review of the literature on the management of HIV patient information has shown that shifting from paper-based management of HIV patient information to computerized Electronic Medical Records (EMR) systems, using software such as OPEN MRS has significantly improved the management of HIV patient information with high-level confidentiality of patient information. The reviews showed that the EMR systems put in place to manage HIV patient information need to integrate the stages used for the management of IPV among PLHIV.