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A scoping review of the levels, implementation strategies, enablers, and barriers to cervical, breast, and colorectal cancer screening among migrant populations in selected English-speaking high-income countries
Background Cancer remains one of the leading causes of mortality and morbidity worldwide with colorectal, cervical, and breast cancers accounting for significant proportion of preventable deaths. Early screening, diagnosis, and treatment could prevent many of these deaths. However, migrants face persistent disparities in the screening, early diagnosis, and treatment of these cancers. This study synthesizes evidence on cancer screening uptake, implementation strategies, as well as their enablers and barriers among migrants in English-speaking high-income countries (Australia, the USA, the UK, Canada, and New Zealand). Methods We conducted a scoping review of studies published in any language between 1 January 2015 and 31 December 2024. Studies were retrieved from four databases: PubMed, Scopus, Embase, and Web of Science. Search terms were developed based on four domains: types of cancer (colorectal, cervical, and breast), migrant populations, screening coverage, and country of residence. The uptake of cancer screening among migrants in selected countries was determined. A thematic analysis was conducted to analyze the data and identify key themes related to the implementation of cancer screening strategies, as well as their enablers and barriers. Results A total of 80 studies were included in the review. Migrants exhibited varied levels of utilization of cancer screening such as cervical cancer (41% − 84%), breast cancer (24%−87%), and colorectal cancer (4%−55%). Four themes related to the implementation of cancer screening strategies were identified: i) culturally tailored health education and communication, ii) trust-building initiatives with providers and health systems, iii) family and community support for acculturation and engagement, iv) awareness and knowledge on increased risk perception. Several barriers to the implementation of cancer screening strategies were identified, including lack of insurance, transportation challenges, difficulty in speaking and understanding English, inflexible work hours of health services, cultural taboos, stigma, poverty, and undocumented (illegal) status of migrants. Enablers of the implementation of cancer screening strategies included faith-based messaging on cancer screening, community partnerships, home-based fecal immunochemical test kits, availability of after-hours services, gender-concordant care, social networks, acculturation, and trust-building. Conclusions The uptake of cancer screening (breast, cervical, colorectal) varied and had low among migrants (e.g., refugees, culturally and linguistically diverse populations). Targeted, culturally tailored approaches, expanding interpreter services, and fostering cross-sector collaborations (e.g., linking screenings to cultural events) are essential for addressing disparities in cancer screening among migrants. Culturally sensitive and adaptive, equity-focussed interventions on cancer screening should be prioritized by ensuring sustained funding, disaggregated data collection on the uptake of cancers screening and design and implementation of programs on targeting diverse population groups.
Levitating platform could ride sunlight into the ‘ignorosphere’
Uniaxial compressive strength of cemented coal gangue backfill based on response surface methodology
Seroprevalence of antibodies against hepatitis A and E among the general population in 5 provinces, Lao People’s Democratic Republic: Variation according to location
Hepatitis A and E viruses (HAV and HEV) are transmitted through the faecal-oral route: via contaminated food, water, and contact with infected people and/or animals for HEV. Due to limited data from Lao People’s Democratic Republic (Lao PDR), we assessed HAV and HEV seroprevalence in the Lao general population. A cross-sectional study collected 2412 serum samples and demographic information from participants (5–93 years) across five provinces. Anti-HAV (IgM and IgG) and anti-HEV antibodies (IgG) were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (Dia.Pro). The overall seroprevalence of anti-HAV was 84.3% and anti-HEV was 57.9%. Seropositivity was associated with occupation, location, increasing age, ethnicity (only for anti-HAV) and sex (only for anti-HEV). The age at which 50% of the population was seropositive differed from 12 years (Oudomxay) to 26 years (Savannakhet and Vientiane) for anti-HAV and from 22 years (Savannakhet) to 49 years (Vientiane) for anti-HEV. The prevalence of double seropositivity was high overall (53.4%), particularly in Savannakhet and Champasack. These significant differences according to location and socio-demographics may be the result of variation of exposure to the viruses, such as through water, sanitation and hygiene-related risks, occupational exposure and animal contact. Further studies are warranted to identify the most important risks for transmission in Lao PDR in order to develop targeted public health interventions.
Spatial correlation in economic analysis of climate change
Structural variation in 1,019 diverse humans based on long-read sequencing
Abstract Genomic structural variants (SVs) contribute substantially to genetic diversity and human diseases 1–4 , yet remain under-characterized in population-scale cohorts 5 . Here we conducted long-read sequencing 6 in 1,019 humans to construct an intermediate-coverage resource covering 26 populations from the 1000 Genomes Project. Integrating linear and graph genome-based analyses, we uncover over 100,000 sequence-resolved biallelic SVs and we genotype 300,000 multiallelic variable number of tandem repeats 7 , advancing SV characterization over short-read-based population-scale surveys 3,4 . We characterize deletions, duplications, insertions and inversions in distinct populations. Long interspersed nuclear element-1 (L1) and SINE-VNTR-Alu (SVA) retrotransposition activities mediate the transduction 8,9 of unique sequence stretches in 5′ or 3′, depending on source mobile element class and locus. SV breakpoint analyses point to a spectrum of homology-mediated processes contributing to SV formation and recurrent deletion events. Our open-access resource underscores the value of long-read sequencing in advancing SV characterization and enables guiding variant prioritization in patient genomes.
Effects on muscular activity and usability of soft active versus rigid passive back exoskeleton during symmetric lifting tasks
FedNolowe: A normalized loss-based weighted aggregation strategy for robust federated learning in heterogeneous environments
Federated Learning supports collaborative model training across distributed clients while keeping sensitive data decentralized. Still, non-independent and identically distributed data pose challenges like unstable convergence and client drift. We propose Federated Normalized Loss-based Weighted Aggregation (FedNolowe) (Code is available at https://github.com/dongld-2020/fednolowe), a new method that weights client contributions using normalized training losses, favoring those with lower losses to improve global model stability. Unlike prior methods tied to dataset sizes or resource-heavy techniques, FedNolowe employs a two-stage L1 normalization, reducing computational complexity by 40% in floating-point operations while matching state-of-the-art performance. A detailed sensitivity analysis shows our two-stage weighting maintains stability in heterogeneous settings by mitigating extreme loss impacts while remaining effective in independent and identically distributed scenarios.
Dynamic removal of methylene blue and methyl orange from water using biochar derived from kitchen waste
Intergenerational instructional strategies and elderly preferences for digital applications: A Malaysian case study
Introduction As Malaysia transitions into an ageing society, older adults increasingly face challenges in acquiring digital literacy, which impacts their ability to engage with essential online services, financial transactions, healthcare applications and communication platforms. The percentage of individuals aged 65 and above in Malaysia rose from 7.2% in 2022 to 7.4% in 2023, highlighting the growing needs for digital inclusion among this demographic. While internet adoption among older individuals is increasing, many still struggle due to psychological, cognitive, and physical barriers. Factors such as low self-efficacy, fear of complexity, and age-related physical limitations hinder their effective use of digital applications. Despite government initiatives such as MyDigital and the Malaysia Digital Economy Blueprint, gaps in digital literacy persist among older adults. Research suggests that intergenerational programs (IPs), where younger individuals assist older adults in learning digital skills, can bridge this gap. These programs promote collaborative learning, reduce social isolation, and foster meaningful intergenerational relationships. However, existing instructional strategies within IPs often fail to accommodate the specific learning needs and preferences of older adults, limiting their effectiveness. Addressing these instructional gaps is essential to ensuring older adults’ successful integration into the digital world. Aims This study aims to investigate the preferences of older adult individuals in Malaysia regarding digital applications and to propose effective intergenerational instructional strategies that enhance their digital learning experiences. Methods This qualitative study explores older adults’ preferences for digital applications and their experiences with intergenerational instructional strategies in Malaysia. A total of 26 older adults and 13 young instructors participated in digital applications workshops at two Pusat Aktiviti Warga Emas (PAWE) centres on August, 2024. Older adults were paired with young instructors in small groups to guide them in using digital applications through hands-on learning. Data collection involved semi-structured interviews before and after the sessions, as well as observations. Thematic analysis is used to analyse interview data, identifying key insights into improving digital learning for older adults in Malaysia. Results The study, conducted at two PAWE centres in Perak, Malaysia, explored intergenerational digital learning between 26 older adults (ages 59–82) and 13 young instructors (ages 20–24). Findings highlight the importance of structured instructional strategies, including interactive learning, direct instruction, and clear communication, to enhance digital literacy among older adults. Personalized learning approaches, small group discussions, and adapting content to individual needs improve engagement and comprehension. Smartphone familiarity plays a key role, with participants favouring WhatsApp and Facebook for communication. Older adults face challenges such as fear of complexity, physical limitations, and security concerns, while young instructors benefit from training to improve communication and instructional skills. The program fosters confidence, intergenerational bonding, and digital inclusion, demonstrating the value of tailored learning strategies in bridging the digital divide.
Optimization of the microstructural, mechanical, and radiation shielding properties of Al-30B4C-25 W hybrid composites with Gd2O3 reinforcement
Infertility screening in unmarried women: A scoping review protocol
Objective This scoping review aims to systematically map the landscape of infertility screening in unmarried women. Introduction Infertility screening in unmarried women represents a significant and often neglected area within reproductive health. This population faces unique challenges and barriers, including social stigma, cultural norms, and limited access to care, making a comprehensive understanding of current screening practices essential. Inclusion criteria Study selection will be guided by the PCCT framework (Population, Concept, Context, and study type), considering diverse study designs (quantitative, qualitative, mixed-methods, reviews) and grey literature, focusing on infertility screening in unmarried women. Methods This scoping review will follow the PRISMA-ScR guidelines and utilize a 14-step framework based on Arksey and O’Malley’s methodology, incorporating enhancements by Tricco and Peters. A comprehensive search strategy will be employed, using controlled vocabulary and free-text method. Databases of Web of Science (ISI), PubMed, Scopus and search engines like Google Scholar will be searched, and supplemented by forward and backward citation tracking. Inclusion/exclusion criteria will be applied iteratively. Two independent reviewers will screen titles/abstracts and full texts, resolving disagreements through consensus or a third reviewer. Data will be charted using a predefined template, and findings will be presented in tables and diagrams, accompanied by a narrative synthesis. Discussion This scoping review will provide a comprehensive overview of the current state of knowledge regarding infertility screening in unmarried women, a significantly under-researched area. The findings will be critical for informing the development of culturally sensitive guidelines, targeted interventions, and future research to address the reproductive health needs of this underserved population.
Mechanism of parent-of-origin effects revealed by multi-omic data in euro-chinese hybrid pigs
Research on cause analysis and management of coal mine safety risk based on social network and bow-tie model
Abstract Accurate identification of coal mine safety risks is a crucial foundation for mitigating coal mine disasters. This study integrates social network analysis (SNA), the bow-tie model, and association rule mining to systematically analyze safety accident data from a coal mine. A total of 85 causative factors were extracted from 72 accidents and assessed through frequency, marginal influence, and centrality indicators to identify key risk contributors. The bow-tie model was employed to structure these causes into a safety risk control framework based on preventive and mitigation measures. Furthermore, the Apriori algorithm was applied to uncover hidden associations among gas safety risk factors, revealing critical compound relationships among factors such as inadequate safety management, insufficient inspections, high incidence of “three violations”, and poor safety education. The findings indicate that management and human-related factors, particularly the absence of effective safety management systems, safety violations, and inadequate training, are the primary contributors to accidents in coal mines. Consequently, it is imperative to address these issues collectively to ensure effective risk prevention in such environments. The coal mine safety risk causality control model established in conjunction with the butterfly diagram model holds significant theoretical and practical value for coal mine safety production.
Chronic kidney disease among HIV-positive Zambian adults with tenofovir-associated nephrotoxicity at University Teaching Hospital (UTH) in Lusaka
Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) is a nucleotide reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI) widely used in first-line antiretroviral therapy (ART). Despite its efficacy, TDF has been associated with nephrotoxicity, particularly in patients with renal impairment. It is with this background that most countries including Zambia are replacing TDF-based regimens with Tenofovir Alafenamide (TAF). This study aimed to determine the association between TDF-induced nephrotoxicity at three months and chronic kidney disease (CKD) within five years among people living with HIV (PLWH) in Zambia. A retrospective cohort study of 182 PLWH was conducted at the Adult Center for Infectious Disease Research (AIDC) in Lusaka, Zambia. The incidence of CKD and factors associated with its development in PLWH who initiated TDF were evaluated. Kidney function trends were monitored over five years. Statistical analysis, including the Mixed-Effect model, and the Cox Proportional Hazards Regression model, were conducted to assess the relationship between early nephrotoxicity and long-term CKD. A total of 63 (34.62%) out of 182 files showed that the patients developed CKD, contributing to a total person-time of 910 person-years. The incidence rate of CKD was 69.2 cases per 1000 person-years. The findings indicated a significant association between TDF-associated nephrotoxicity and the development of CKD within five years. The mixed-effects model accounted for population-level trends and individual variability, ensuring robust results. Findings showed that removing outliers made the model more representative, with a significant decline in kidney function over time. The Cox regression model identified male sex and baseline creatinine as substantial risk factors for CKD, with good model fit and discriminatory power. Given the findings, it is recommended that regular monitoring and early intervention strategies be reinforced for patients. Furthermore, continuous evaluation of kidney function over time is crucial to effectively manage and mitigate the risks associated with CKD in PLWH.
Accuracy of rubber-related deforestation maps
Geometrically insensitive deform-and-go liquid crystal elastomer actuators through controlled radical diffusion
A Monte Carlo simulation of gamma-ray backscattering from concrete shields coated with nanoparticle layers
The mitochondrial aspartate transporter Ucp4a regulates muscle aging and animal lifespan in Drosophila melanogaster
Mild distress of mitochondria extends animal lifespan, yet the underlying mechanisms are not completely understood. Here we screened mitochondrial proteins for effects on longevity and found that flies mutant in Uncoupling protein 4a (Ucp4a), which encodes a mitochondrial aspartate transporter, have extended lifespans. Tissue-specific experiments revealed knockdown of Ucp4a in muscles, but not neurons, fat, or intestine, to extend lifespan and also eliminate polyubiquitinated protein aggregates, which accumulate with aging and are associated with lifespan. These findings suggest a retrograde mitochondrial signaling process initiated by reduced cytosol aspartate level culminates in muscle protein aggregate removal and lifespan extension.