bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genome-wide association mapping reveals potential novel loci controlling stripe rust resistance in a Chinese wheat landrace diversity panel from the southern autumn-sown spring wheat zone
Authors: Wang Yuqi , Yu Can , Cheng Yukun , Yao Fangjie , Long Li , Wu Yu , Li Jing , Li Hao , Wang Jirui , Jiang Qiantao , Li Wei , Pu Zhien , Qi Pengfei , Ma Jian , Deng Mei , Wei Yuming , Chen Xianming , Chen Guoyue , Kang Houyang , Jiang Yunfeng , Zheng Youliang
Published: September 2020

Background: Stripe rust, caused by the fungal pathogen Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici (Pst), is a serious foliar disease of wheat. Identification of novel stripe rust resistance genes and cultivation of resistant varieties are considered to be the most effective approaches to control this disease. In this study, we evaluated the infection type (IT), disease severity (DS) and area under the disease progress curve (AUDPC) of 143 Chinese wheat landrace accessions for stripe rust resistance. Assessments were undertaken in five environments at the adult-plant stage with Pst mixture races under field conditions, in addition, IT was assessed at the seedling stage with two prevalent Pst races (CYR32 and CYR34) under controlled greenhouse conditions. Results: Seventeen accessions showed stable high-level resistance to stripe rust across all environments under field tests, while four accessions showed resistance to the Pst races CYR32 and CYR34 at the seedling stage. Combining phenotypic data from the field and greenhouse trials with 6404 markers covering the whole genome, we detected 17 quantitative trait loci (QTL) on 11 chromosomes for IT associated with seedling resistance and 15 QTL on seven chromosomes for IT, final disease severity (FDS) or AUDPC associated with adult-plant resistance. Four stable QTL detected on four chromosomes, which explained 9.99%–23.30% of the phenotypic variation, were simultaneously associated with seedling and adult-plant resistance. Integrating a linkage map of stripe rust resistance in wheat, 27 QTL overlapped with previously reported genes or QTL, while four and one QTL conferring seedling and adult-plant resistance respectively were mapped distantly from previously reported stripe rust resistance genes or QTL and may be novel resistance loci. Conclusions: Our results provided an integrated view of stripe rust resistance resources in a Chinese wheat landrace diversity panel from the southern autumn-sown spring wheat zone. The identified resistant accessions and resistance loci will be useful in the ongoing effort to develop new wheat cultivars with strong resistance to stripe rust.
Molecular epidemiology and risk factors of Stenotrophomonas maltophilia infections in a Chinese teaching hospital
Authors: Duan Zhongliang , Qin Juanxiu , Liu Yao , Li Cui , Ying Chunmei
Published: September 2020

Background: Stenotrophomonas maltophilia (S. maltophilia) is an important opportunistic pathogen that can be isolated in hospitals. With the abuse of broad spectrum antibiotics and invasive surgical devices, the rate of S. maltophilia infection is increasing every year. This study was an epidemiological analysis of the clinical and molecular characteristics of S. maltophilia infection in a Chinese teaching hospital. The goal was to obtain a comprehensive understanding of the status of S. maltophilia infection to provide strong epidemiological data for the prevention and treatment of S. maltophilia infection.Results: A total of 93 isolates from Renji Hospital affiliated with the Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine were included, in which 62 isolates were from male patients. In addition, 81 isolates were isolated from sputum samples. A total of 86 patients had underlying diseases. All patients received antibiotics. Multilocus sequence typing (MLST) analysis indicated that 61 different sequence types (STs) were found (including 45 novel STs), and MLST did not show significantly dominant STs. Pulsed field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) results showed that 93 isolates could be divided into 73 clusters, and they also showed weak genetic linkages between isolates. The resistant rates to trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (TMP/SMX) and levofloxacin were 9.7% and 4.3%, respectively, and all isolates were susceptible to minocycline. Four virulence gene’s loci Stmpr1, Stmpr2, Smf-1, and Smlt3773 were positive in 79.6%, 91.4%, 94.6%, and 52.7% of the isolates, respectively. Three biofilm genes rmlA, spgM, and rpfF were positive in 82.8%, 92.5%, and 64.5% of the isolates, respectively. Mean biofilm forming level of OD492 was 0.54 ± 0.49. We did not find any significant difference between different genders and different age-groups. We retrospectively analyzed data from patients in the intensive care unit (ICU) and the control group. The independent risk factors of those who were infected in the ICU included immunosuppression and the increased antibiotic usage.Conclusions: Most of the patients had prior medical usage histories and baseline diseases. The positive rate of virulence genes was high, the drug resistance rate of S. maltophilia was low, and the biofilm formation ability was strong. The increased use of antibiotics was an independent risk factor for S. maltophilia infection, which should receive more attention. No obvious clonal transmissions were found in the same departments.
Partnership for Research on Ebola VACcination (PREVAC): protocol of a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled phase 2 clinical trial evaluating three vaccine strategies against Ebola in healthy volunteers in four West African countries
Authors: Badio Moses , Lhomme Edouard , Kieh Mark , Beavogui Abdoul Habib , Kennedy Stephen B , Doumbia Seydou , Leigh Bailah , Sow Samba O , Diallo Alpha , Fusco Daniela , Kirchoff Matthew , Termote Monique , Vatrinet Renaud , Wentworth Deborah , Esperou Helène , Lane H Clifford , Pierson Jerome , Watson-Jones Deborah , Roy Céline , D'Ortenzio Eric , Greenwood Brian , Chêne Genevieve , Richert Laura , Neaton James D , Yazdanpanah Yazdan
Published: September 2020

IntroductionThe Ebola virus disease (EVD) outbreak in 2014–2016 in West Africa was the largest on record and provided an opportunity for large clinical trials and accelerated efforts to develop an effective and safe preventative vaccine. Multiple questions regarding the safety, immunogenicity, and efficacy of EVD vaccines remain unanswered. To address these gaps in the evidence base, the Partnership for Research on Ebola Vaccines (PREVAC) trial was designed. This paper describes the design, methods, and baseline results of the PREVAC trial and discusses challenges that led to different protocol amendments.MethodsThis is a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled phase 2 clinical trial of three vaccine strategies against the Ebola virus in healthy volunteers 1 year of age and above. The three vaccine strategies being studied are the rVSVΔG-ZEBOV-GP vaccine, with and without a booster dose at 56 days, and the Ad26.ZEBOV,MVA-FN-Filo vaccine regimen with Ad26.ZEBOV given as the first dose and the MVA-FN-Filo vaccination given 56 days later. There have been 4 versions of the protocol with those enrolled in Version 4.0 comprising the primary analysis cohort. The primary endpoint is based on the antibody titer against the Ebola virus surface glycoprotein measured 12 months following the final injection.ResultsFrom April 2017 to December 2018, a total of 5,002 volunteers were screened and 4,789 enrolled. Participants were enrolled at 6 sites in four countries (Guinea, Liberia, Sierra Leone, and Mali). Of the 4,789 participants, 2,560 (53%) were adults and 2,229 (47%) were children. Those < 18 years of age included 549 (12%) aged 1 to 4 years; 750 (16%) 5 to 11 years; and 930 (19%) aged 12–17 years. At baseline, the median (25th, 75th percentile) antibody titer to Ebola virus glycoprotein for 1,090 participants was 72 (50, 116) EU/mL.DiscussionThe PREVAC trial is evaluating - placebo-controlled - two promising Ebola candidate vaccines in advanced stages of development. The results will address unanswered questions related to short- and long-term safety and immunogenicity for three vaccine strategies in adults and children.Trial registrationClinicaltrials.gov, NCT02876328. Registred 23 August 2016, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02876328
Genome-wide in silico identification and expression analysis of beta-galactosidase family members in sweetpotato [Ipomoea batatas (L.) Lam.]
Authors: Hou Fuyun , Qin Zhen , Du Taifeng , Xu Tao , Li Aixian , Dong Shunxu , Ma Daifu , Wang Qingmei , Li Zongyun , Zhang Liming
Published: September 2020

Background: Sweetpotato (Ipomoea batatas (L.) Lam.) serves as an important food source for human beings. β-galactosidase (bgal) is a glycosyl hydrolase involved in cell wall modification, which plays essential roles in plant development and environmental stress adaptation. However, the function of bgals genes in sweetpotato has yet to be reported.Results: In this study, 17 β-galactosidase genes (Ibbgal) were identified in sweetpotato, which were classified into seven subfamilies using interspecific phylogenetic and comparative analyses. The promoter regions of Ibbgals harbored several stress, hormone and light responsive cis-acting elements. Quantitative real-time PCR results displayed that Ibbgal genes had the distinct expression patterns across different tissues and varieties. Moreover, the expression profiles under various hormonal treatments, abiotic and biotic stresses were highly divergent in leaves and root. Conclusions: These findings suggest that Ibbgals may involve in plant development and stress responses through regulating the metabolism of cell wall polysaccharides.
The COVID-19 pandemic in Norway and Sweden – threats, trust, and impact on daily life: A comparative survey
Authors: Helsingen Lise , Refsum Erle , Gjøstein Dagrun Kyte , Løberg Magnus , Bretthauer Michael , Kalager Mette , Emilsson Louise
Published: September 2020

Background: Norway and Sweden have similar populations and health care systems, but different reactions to the COVID-19 pandemic. Norway closed educational institutions, and banned sports and cultural activities; Sweden kept most institutions and training facilities open. We aimed to compare peoples’ attitudes towards authorities and control measures, and perceived impact of the pandemic and implemented control measures on life in Norway and Sweden.Methods: Anonymous web-based surveys for individuals age 15 or older distributed through Facebook using the snowball method, in Norway and Sweden from mid-March to mid-April, 2020. The survey contained questions about perceived threat of the pandemic, views on infection control measures, and impact on daily life. We performed descriptive analyses of the responses and compared the two countries.Results: 3,508 individuals participated in the survey (Norway 3000; Sweden 508). 79% were women, the majority were 30-49 years (Norway 60%; Sweden 47%), and about 45% of the participants in both countries had more than four years of higher education.Participants had high trust in the health services, but differed in the degree of trust in their government (High trust in Norway 17%; Sweden 37%). More Norwegians than Swedes agreed that school closure was a good measure (Norway 66%; Sweden 18%), that countries with open schools were irresponsible (Norway 65%; Sweden 23%), and that the threat from repercussions of the mitigation measures were large or very large (Norway 71%; Sweden 56%). Both countries had a high compliance with infection preventive measures (> 98%). Many lived a more sedentary life (Norway 69%; Sweden 50%) and ate more (Norway 44%; Sweden 33%) during the pandemic. Conclusion: Sweden had more trust in the authorities, while Norwegians reported a more negative lifestyle during the pandemic. The level of trust in the health care system and self-reported compliance with preventive measures was high in both countries despite the differences in infection control measures.
Knowledge, attitudes, anxiety, and preventive behaviours towards COVID-19 among health care providers in Yemen: an online cross-sectional survey
Authors: Alrubaiee Gamil Ghaleb , Al-Qalah Talal Ali Hussein , Al-Aawar Mohammed Sadeg A.
Published: September 2020

Background: The current rapid prevalence of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic over the world is associated with a considerable level of scared, anxiety, and panic among the public, in particular, healthcare providers (HCPs) as the most vulnerable group at risk for SARS-CoV-2 infection. To protect and enhance HCPs' capacity to carry out their duties in responding to COVID-19, healthcare authorities should keep them away from stress and anxiety and improve their knowledge, attitude, and practice towards COVID-19 to ensure their compliance with infection control precautions. Therefore, this study aimed to explore knowledge, attitudes, anxiety, and preventive behaviours among Yemeni HCPs towards COVID-19. Methods: A descriptive, web-based-cross-sectional study was conducted among 1231 Yemeni HCPs. The COVID-19 related questionnaire was designed using Google forms. The responses were coded and analyzed using the software package (IBMSPSS), version 22.0. Descriptive statistics and Pearson's correlation coefficient test were also used in this study. A p-value of < 0.05 levels with a 95% confidence interval was considered as statistically significant. The data collection started on 22nd April 2020, at 6 PM and closed on 26th April 2020 at 11 AM. Results: The results indicated that out of 1231 of the HCPs participating in this study, 61.6% were male and 67% were in the age group of 20 to 30 years old with a mean of 29.29±6.75. Most of them (86%) had a bachelor's degree or above and had 10 years of working experience or less (88.1%). Besides, although 57.1% of the respondents obtained their information via social and news media and 60.0% had never attended lectures/discussions about COVID-19, the results revealed that the majority of respondents had an adequate level of knowledge, an optimistic attitude, moderate anxiety, and high performance in preventive behaviours (69.8%, 85.10%, 51.0& 87.70%, respectively) toward the COVID-19 pandemic. Conclusion: Although the Yemeni HCPs exhibited an adequate level of knowledge, an optimistic attitude, moderate anxiety, and high performance in preventive behaviours toward the COVID-19 pandemic, the results showed gaps in some themes, particularly in their knowledge and attitude on the COVID-19 pandemic which needs to be updated or refreshed.
Use of Spinal Anaesthesia in Neonates and Infants in Antananarivo, Madagascar: A Retrospective Descriptive Study
Authors: Randriamizao Harifetra Mamy Richard , Rakotondrainibe Aurelia , Razafindrabekoto Lova Dany Ella , Ravoaviarivelo Prisca Funken , Rajaonera Andriambelo Tovohery , Andriamanarivo Mamy Lalatiana
Published: September 2020

Objective: The aim of this study was to present the first cases of spinal anesthesia, in newborns and infants, preterm / ex-prematures, in order to determine its feasibility and its potential harmlessness, in Antananarivo – Madagascar. Indeed, spinal anesthesia is a low cost technique and can limit respiratory complications, postoperative apnea a contrario with pediatric general anesthesia which can lead to perioperative risks.Results: In a retrospective, descriptive, seven-year (2013 to 2019) period study, conducted in the University Hospital Joseph Ravoahangy Andrianavalona, 69 patients’ data files planned to have spinal anesthesia were recorded. These pediatric patients were predominantly male (sex ratio = 2.8) and 37 [28 - 52] days old. The smallest anesthetized child weighed 880g; the youngest was 4 days old. Twenty-seven (27) of them were premature and 20.3% presented respiratory diseases. They were mostly scheduled for hernia repair (90%). Spinal anesthesia was performed, with a Gauge 25 Quincke spinal needle, after 2 [1 - 2] attempts with hyperbaric bupivacaine of 4 [3.5 - 4] mg. Failure rate was 5.8%. The heart rate was stable throughout perioperative period and no complications were observed.
Compensation Models for Community Health Workers: Comparison of Legal Frameworks across Five Countries
Authors: Ballard Madeleine , Westgate Carey , Alban Rebecca , Choudhury Nandini , Adamjee Rehan , Schwarz Ryan , Bishop Julia , McLaughlin Meg , Flood David , Finnegan Karen , Rogers Ash , Olsen Helen , Johnson Ari , Palazuelos Daniel , Schechter Jennifer
Published: September 2020

Background: Despite the life-saving work they perform, community health workers (CHWs) have long been subject to global debate about their remuneration. There is now, however, an emerging consensus that CHWs should be paid. As the discussion evolves from whether to financially remunerate CHWs to how to do so, there is an urgent need to better understand the types of CHW payment models and their implications. Methods: This study examines the legal framework on CHW compensation in five countries: Brazil, Ghana, Nigeria, Rwanda, and South Africa. In order to map the characteristics of each approach, a review of the regulatory framework governing CHW compensation in each country was undertaken. Law firms in each of the five countries were engaged to support the identification and interpretation of relevant legal documents. To guide the search and aid in the creation of uniform country profiles, a standardized set of questions was developed, covering : (i) legal requirements for CHW compensation, (ii) CHW compensation mechanisms, and (iii) CHW legal protections and benefits. Findings: The five countries profiled represent possible archetypes for CHW compensation: Brazil (public), Ghana (volunteer-based), Nigeria (private), Rwanda (cooperatives with performance based incentives) and South Africa (hybrid public/private). Advantages and disadvantages of each model with respect to (i) CHWs, in terms of financial protection, and (ii) the health system, in terms of ease of implementation, are outlined.Conclusions: While a strong legal framework does not necessarily translate into high-quality implementation, it is the first necessary step. Certain approaches to CHW compensation - particularly public-sector or hybrid models with public sector wage floors - best institutionalize recommended CHW protections. Political will and long-term financing often remain; removing ecosystem barriers - such as multilateral and bilateral restrictions on the payment of salaries - can help governments institutionalize CHW payment.
Updates on malaria epidemiology and profile in Cabo Verde from 2010 to 2019: The goal of Elimination
Authors: DePINA Adilson José , Stresman Gillian , Barros Helga Sofia Baptista , Moreira António Lima , Dia Abdoulaye Kane , Furtado Ullardina Domingos , Faye Ousmane , Seck Ibrahima , Niang El Hadji Amadou Niang
Published: September 2020

Background: Located in West Africa, Cabo Verde is an archipelago consisting of nine inhabited islands. Malaria has been endemic since the settlement of the islands during the 16th century and is poised to achieve malaria elimination in January 2021. The aim of this research is to characterise the trends in malaria cases from 2010 to 2019 in Cabo Verde as the country transitions from endemic transmission to elimination and prevention of reintroduction phases. Methods: All confirmed malaria cases reported to the Ministry of Health between 2010 and 2019 were extracted from the passive malaria surveillance system. Individual-level data available included age, sex, municipality of residence, and the self-reported countries visited if travelled within the past 30 days, therby classified as imported. Trends in reported cases were visualised and multivariable logistic regression used to assess risk factors associated with a malaria case being imported and differences over time.Results: A total of 814 incident malaria cases were reported in the country between 2010 and 2019, the majority of which were Plasmodium falciparum. Overall, prior to 2017, when the epidemic occurred, 58.08% (95% CI: 53.56-64.59) of infections were classified as imported, whereas during the post-epidemic period, 93.33% (95% CI: 86.97-99.70) were imported. The last locally acquired case was reported in January 2018. Imported malaria cases were more likely to be 25-40 years old (AOR: 15.14, 95% CI: 5.86-39.15) compared to those under 15 years of age and more likely during the post-epidemic period (AOR: 56.12; 95% CI: 13.97-225.49) and most likely to be reported on Sao Vicente Island (AOR=4256.9, 95% CI=260-6.96e+4) compared to Boa Vista. Conclusions: Cabo Verde has made substantial gains in reducing malaria burden in the country over the past decade and are poised to achieve elimination in 2021. However, the high mobility between the islands and continental Africa, where malaria is still highly endemic, means there is a constant risk of malaria reintroduction. Characterisation of imported cases provides useful insight for program and enables better evidence-based decision-making to ensure malaria elimination can be sustained.
Inflammatory potential of the diet and risk of sarcopenia and its components
Authors: Bagheri Amir , Soltani Sanaz , Hashemi Rezvan , Heshmat Ramin , Motlagh Ahmadreza Dorosty , Esmaillzadeh Ahmad
Published: September 2020

Background: Despite a large body of evidence on the link between dietary inflammatory index (DII) and several chronic conditions, limited data are available about the association of DII and sarcopenia. This study aimed to examine the relationship between inflammatory potential of the diet (as measured by DII) and sarcopenia and its components among community-dwelling elderly population.Methods: This population-based cross-sectional study was performed in 2011 among 300 elderly people (150 men and 150 women) aged ≥55 years, who were selected using cluster random sampling method. Dietary assessment was done using a pre-tested food frequency questionnaire. Energy-adjusted DII was calculated based on earlier studies. Sarcopenia and its components were determined based on the European Working Group on Sarcopenia (EWGSOP) definition.Results: Mean age of study participants was 66.7 ± 7.7 y. Subjects in the highest tertile of DII score (i.e. those with a more pro-inflammatory diet) were more likely to be older (P=0.02). The prevalence of sarcopenia (P=0.016) and low muscle mass (P=0.041) was significantly higher among subjects in the top tertile compared with those in the bottom tertile of DII. After adjustment for potential confounders, those with the highest DII were 2.18 times (95% CI: 1.01-4.74) more likely to have sarcopenia than those with the lowest DII. With regard to components of sarcopenia, subjects in the top tertile of DII had not significantly greater odds of low muscle mass (OR: 1.38; 95% CI: 0.72-2.63), abnormal handgrip strength (OR: 0.97; 95% CI: 0.49-1.89), and abnormal gait speed (OR: 1.61; 95% CI: 0.84-3.08) than those in the bottom tertile.Conclusions: In conclusion, a diet with more pro-inflammatory potential was associated with a greater odds of sarcopenia. Further studies are required to confirm these findings.
COVID-19 and information - communication technology: Common components in an interactive framework for predicting, preventing, controlling and monitoring the new COVID-19 disease
Authors: Yazdani Azita , Sharifian Roxana , Ravangard Ramin , dashti seyedeh fatemeh , Shukohifar Marzieh , Gholampour Yousef , zahmatkeshan maryam
Published: September 2020

BackgroundSince there is no specific treatment for coronavirus, there is an urgent need for global monitoring of people with Covid-19. The use of e-health services should be compatible with the diagnosis and control of the outbreak of zoonotic infectious diseases. The aim of this study is to provide a conceptual model based on health information technology services for Covid-19 disease management.MethodsThe present study is an applied descriptive study that was performed on a cross-sectional basis in a COVID-19 Center Hospital in Fars province of IRAN country in April 2020. The main tool of this research is a questionnaire that has been compiled by reviewing related articles in databases and surveying with experts in order to determine the necessary services in the management and control model of the prevalence of Covid19 disease. Then, in order to determine the necessary services in the conceptual model, this questionnaire was given to various specialists in the COVID-19 Center Hospital. Finally, based on the results of the questionnaire, a comprehensive conceptual model for the management and control of COVID 19 diseases is presented.ResultsThe proposed model consisted of three layers of cloud computing, fog and data acquisition. All services were approved by the surveyed participants. Among the services, Tele- monitoring for home quarantine, Electronic self-assessment, Telepsychology of patients in home and hospital quarantine, Tele prescription, Tele- information Tele- training have the highest agreement rate. proposed model is an integrated model. The innovation that can be mentioned in this research is the use of priority queue service as a service of the fog layer.ConclusionInformation communication technology tools have an important role in all aspects of contagious diseases management.
Sex Differences in Clinical Characteristics and Risk Factors for Disease Severity of Hospitalized Patients with COVID-19 in Beijing
Authors: Wang Jingjing , Su Yunjuan , Wang Qi , Cao Ying , Wang Aibin , Ding Rui , Xie Wen
Published: September 2020

Background: Recent studies reported that sex differences in patients with coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19). However the predictive value of sex differences in disease severity were less studied by previous scholars. Methods: All adults (≥18 years) diagnosed with COVID-19 and admitted to Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University (admission date from January 13 to March 19, 2020) were included in samples. Data analyzed in this study included epidemiological, demographic, comorbidities, initial symptoms and signs, laboratory findings, imaging study, disease severity and in-hospital mortality. Results: A total of 185 inpatients were enrolled in the study, among whom 95 patients are males (51.4%). The mean age of all patients was 41 years. Based on the hospital record, the duration from symptoms initiation to hospital admission was longer for men than that for women. Moreover, the mean BMI of males was relatively higher compared to females (25.45vs22.29, p<.001). In addition, the proportion of male patients with CHD, NAFLD, smoking and drinking history was higher than females. During the hospital stay, compared to female patients, male patients were more prone to develop symptoms such as high fever, cough, and chill. Higher levels of AST, CK, CRP and FIB were also observed in male patients. Following this fact, more patients with abnormal CT activities, severe and critical symptoms were developed in male group than females. However, there was no difference in complications and outcome between two groups. By analyzing data comprehensively, we found out that age (analyzed in quartiles, OR: 1.087; 95% CI: 1.038–1.139; p <.001) and BMI (OR: 1.250; 95% CI: 1.046–1.493; p =.014) could be used to help predict disease severity. ﻿Conclusions: In this cohort of hospitalized patients in Beijing, male patients developed more clinical symptoms, obtained more abnormal laboratory test results, and showed higher rates in severity of COVID-19. Other than that, the severity of COVID-19 was positively correlated with age and BMI independently.
Analysis on the First Tear Film Break-up Point in Sjögren's Syndrome and non-Sjögren's Syndrome Dry Eye Patients
Authors: Zhao Songjiao , Le Qihua
Published: September 2020

Background：Tear film instability plays an important role in the course of Sjögren's Syndrome dry eye (SSDE) even though it is generally classified as aqueous-deficient dry eye. The measurement of the first tear film break-up point (FTBUP) helps to evaluate the most unstable position of the tear film on ocular surface. We aim to investigate the first tear film break-up point (FTBUP) in Sjögren's Syndrome dry eye (SSDE) and non-Sjögren's Syndrome dry eye (NSSDE) patients, and explore its correlation with dry eye indices.Methods: Twenty-two SSDE patients (44 eyes) and 22 NSSDE patients (44 eyes) were enrolled in the study. Oculus Keratograph K5M was used to measure the FTBUP, the first and average non-invasive keratographic breakup time (f-NIKBUT and av-NIKBUT), and meibomian gland dropout. Other tests of tear film were also performed including Ocular Surface Dryness Index (OSDI), Schirmer I test, fluorescein break-up time and corneal fluorescein staining. One-way ANOVA with Bonferroni adjustment was used to compare dry eye indices. The locations of the FTBUP were compared between SSDE and NSSDE patients using chi-square test. The correlations between the FTBUP and ocular symptoms and signs were investigated using Pearson’s correlation coefficient test.Results: The FTBUP occurred at the supranasal quadrant in 12/88 eyes, supratemporal quadrant in 8/88 eyes, inferonasal quadrant in 34/88 eyes, and inferotemporal quadrant in 34/88 eyes. The percentage of the FTBUPs occurring at the inferior cornea was significantly higher in the SSDE group than in the NSSDE group (86.3% vs 68.1%, P=.042). Moreover, FTBUP was more frequently observed in the temporal area in SSDE patients with positive corneal fluorescein staining, as opposed to the nasal area in SSDE patients with negative corneal staining(P=.032). Conclusion: Tear film was more unstable in the inferior cornea than other areas of cornea in both SSDE and NSSDE patients. The location of the FTBUP in SSDE patients had a close relationship with cornea fluorescein staining.
The Psychological Effect of COVID-19 and Lockdown on the Population: Evidence from Italy
Authors: Delmastro Marco , Zamariola Giorgia
Published: September 2020

The COVID-19 pandemic and the lockdown measures adopted to prevent the spread of the disease had a huge impact on a personal, social, and economic level for the world population. In Europe, Italy was one of the frontrunner countries dealing with an emergency that significantly affected people’s lives. Previous research on the psychological impact of the pandemic revealed an increase in anxiety, depression, and feelings of distress; however, these studies were conducted on non-representative samples of the population reached through social media channels, a method that is likely to lead to many forms of statistical and methodological bias. For the first time to our knowledge, we measured depressive symptoms on 6,700 Italian individuals, representative of the Italian population in terms of age, gender, and geographical areas revealing higher scores of depressive symptoms in females, younger adults, people reporting professional uncertainty and lower socio-economic status. A positive correlation was also found for individuals living alone, those who could not leave home for going to work, and people with a case of COVID-19 in the family, whereas the region of residence was not a significant predictor of depressive symptoms. These findings underline the importance of considering the psychological effects of COVID-19 and providing support to individuals seeking mental health care.
Predictive Control of Aerial Swarms in Cluttered Environments
Authors: Soria Enrica , Schiano Fabrizio , Floreano Dario
Published: September 2020

Classical models of aerial swarms often describe global coordinated motion as the combination of local interactions that happen at the individual level. Mathematically, these interactions are represented with Potential Fields. Despite their explanatory success, these models fail to guarantee rapid and safe collective motion when applied to aerial robotic swarms flying in cluttered environments of the real world, such as forests and urban areas. Moreover, these models necessitate a tight coupling with the deployment scenarios to induce consistent swarm behaviors. Here, we propose a predictive model that combines the local principles of potential field models with the knowledge of the agents’ dynamics. We show that our approach improves the speed, order, and safety of the swarm, it is independent of the environment layout, and scalable in the swarm speed and inter-agent distance. Our model is validated with a swarm of five quadrotors that can successfully navigate in a real-world indoor environment populated with obstacles.
Can CPAP machines be repurposed to solve the ventilator shortage?
Authors: Nguyen Johnny , Kesper Karl , Kräling Gunter , Birk Christian , Mross Peter , Hofeditz Nico , Höchst Jonas , Lampe Patrick , Penning Alvar , Leutenecker-Twelsiek Bastian , Schindler Carsten , Buchenauer Helwig , Geisel David , Sommer Caroline , Henning Ronald , Wallot Pascal , Wiesmann Thomas , Beutel Björn , Schneider Gunter , Castro-Camus Enrique , Koch Martin
Published: September 2020

The worldwide shortage of medical-grade ventilators is a well-known issue, that has become one of the central topics during the COVID-19 pandemic. Given that these machines are expensive and have long lead times, one approach is to vacate them for patients in critical conditions while patients with mild to moderate symptoms are treated with stripped-down ventilators. We propose a mass-producible solution that can create such ventilators with minimum effort. The central part is a module that can be attached to CPAP machines and repurpose them as low-pressure ventilators. Here, we describe the concept and first measurements which underline the potential of our solution. Our approach may serve as a starting point for open-access ventilator technologies.
Structural insights into decreased affinity of SARS-CoV-2 to ACE2 by steroids
Authors: Mansouri Alireza , Kowsar Rasoul , Sadeghi Khaled , Miyamoto Akio
Published: September 2020

The novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) presently poses significant concerns around the world. Latest reports show that the degree of disease and mortality of COVID-19 infected patients may vary from gender to gender with a very high risk of death for seniors. Clearly, different levels of sex steroid hormones are found in both men and women. It was hypothesized that sex steroid hormones estradiol (E2), progesterone (P4), and testosterone (T) may change the interaction of coronavirus spike protein with angiotensin converting enzyme-2 (ACE2, which is the major SARS-CoV-2 cell entry receptor.) in the presence or absence of dexamethasone (DEX, the potential anti-inflammatory agents). Data showed that E2 was more strongly to interact with the main protease of the coronavirus, while T had the lowest affinity for coronavirus spike protein than E2 and P4. The binding energy of the spike protein to ACE2 was increased in the presence of five molecules of each steroid; the greatest increase was observed by DEX and E2. The binding free energy of the spike protein to ACE2 was the highest in the presence of both E2 and DEX molecules. Together, the interaction between spike protein and ACE2 can be disrupted by female sex steroid hormone E2 and to a greater extent by E2 and anti-inflammatory DEX, in part explaining the lower incidence of COVID-19 infection in women than men. The potential use of E2 and DEX to reduce coronavirus attachment to ACE2 in the early phase of the coronavirus invasion needs to be clinically investigated.
WITHDRAWN: A Randomized Controlled Study Of Favipiravir Vs Hydroxychloroquine In COVID-19 Management: What Have We Learned So Far?
Authors: Dabbous Hany M , El-Sayed Manal H. , Assal Gihan El , Elghazaly Hesham , Ebeid Fatma FS , Sherief Ahmed F. , Elgaafary Maha , Fawzy Ehab , Hassany Sahar M , Riad Ahmed R , TagelDin Mohamed A.
Published: September 2020

Background: Favipiravir is considered a potential treatment for COVID-19 due its efficacy against different viral infections. We aimed to explore the safety and efficacy of favipiravir in treatment of COVID-19 mild and moderate cases.Methods: A randomized-controlled open-label interventional phase 3 clinical trial [NCT04349241]. 100 patients were recruited from 18thApril till 18thMay. 50patients received favipiravir 3200mg at day1 followed by 600mg twice (day2-day10). 50patients received hydroxychloroquine 800mg at day1 followed by 200mg twice (day2- 10) and oral oseltamivir 75mg/12hour/day for 10 days. Patients were enrolled from Ain Shams University Hospital and Assiut University Hospital.Results: Both arms were comparable as regards demographic characteristics and comorbidities. The average onset of SARS-CoV-2 PCR negativity was 8.1 and 8.3 days in HCQ-arm and favipiravir-arm respectively. 55.1% of those on HCQ-arm turned PCR negative at/or before 7th day from diagnosis compared to 48% in favipiravir-arm (p=0.7). Four patients in FVP arm developed transient transaminitis on the other hand heartburn and nausea were reported in about 20 patients in HCQ-arm. Only one patient in HCQ-arm died after developing acute myocarditis resulted in acute heart failure. Conclusion: Favipiravir is a safe effective alternative for hydroxychloroquine in mild or moderate COVID-19 infected patients.
Fair allocation of potential COVID-19 vaccines using an optimization-based strategy
Authors: Munguía-López Aurora del Carmen , Ponce-Ortega José María
Published: September 2020

The fair allocation of resources among multiple stakeholders in any area is a complex challenge for decision-making. This paper presents an optimization strategy for the allocation of COVID-19 vaccines, when they are available, through different fairness schemes (social welfare, Nash, Rawlsian justice, and social welfare II scheme). The applicability of the proposed model is illustrated using the case study of Mexico, including the states of the country as stakeholders. We involve several parameters to guide the allocation, such as the size, risk profiles, and fraction of vulnerable groups in the population. Furthermore, different scenarios of the availability of potential COVID-19 vaccines were evaluated. The social welfare approach is the most commonly used scheme for the allocation of resources. However, we demonstrate that this scheme yields non-unique or multiple solutions (through the social welfare II approach). These social welfare approaches provide inequalities in the allocations that become critical when resources are scarce. Specifically, the social welfare scheme favors large stakeholders (greater population) in all scenarios. We also observe how the complexity of the allocation increases with the higher availability of vaccines. Hence, it is important to consider allocation schemes to identify fair solutions.
COVID-19 outbreak and Urban dynamics: Regional variations in India
Authors: Gupta Devarupa , Biswas Dibyendu , Kabiraj Pintu
Published: September 2020

India was the second highest COVID-19 affected country in the world with 2.1 million cases by 11th August. This study focused on the spatial transmission of the pandemic among the 640 districts in India over time, and aimed to understand the urban-centric nature of the infection. The connectivity context was emphasized that possibly had inflicted the outbreak. Using the modes of transmission data for the available cases, the diffusion of this disease was explained. Metropolitans contributed three-fourths of total cases from the beginning. The transport networks attributed significantly in transmitting the virus from the urban containment zones. Later, there was a gradual shift of infections from urban to rural areas; however, the numbers kept increasing in the former. The massive reverse migration after lockdown spiked the infected cases further. Districts with airports reported more with influx of international passengers. A profound east-west division in April with higher infections in the southern and western districts existed. By mid-May eastern India saw a steep rise in active cases. Moran’s I analysis showed a low autocorrelation initially which increased over time. Hotspot clustering was observed in western Maharashtra, eastern Tamil Nadu, Gujarat and around Kolkata by the second week of August. The diffusion was due to travel, exposure to infected individuals and among the frontline workers. Spatial regression models confirmed that urbanization was positively correlated with higher incidences of infections. Transit mediums, especially rail and aviation were positively associated. These models validated the crucial role of spatial proximity in diffusion of the pandemic.
Testing the backbone of the healthcare system: a prospective serological-epidemiological cohort study of healthcare workers in rural Germany.
Authors: Hoffmann Stephanie , Spallek Jacob , Gremmels Heinz-Detlef , Schiebel Juliane , Hufert Frank
Published: September 2020

Healthcare workers are of a high priority in SARS-CoV-2 pandemic and epidemiological control strategies due to their relevance for the healthcare system and high exposure levels that might result in symptomatic and asymptomatic courses. Aim of this study is to assess the prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 infections in a cohort of 171 healthcare workers in a standard care hospital in a rural German area. The outcomes are monthly measures of antibody prevalence over a 6-month period. Using univariate statistics, baseline characteristics will be analysed considering risk groups, exposure history, test frequencies, symptoms, and antibody distribution.At T0 tests for qualitative detection of antibodies (Ig) against SARS-CoV-2 revealed a seroprevalence of 1.3%.The data contribute to the understanding of the virus spread in a particularly exposed population group and will be relevant for management of the pandemic. Longitudinal analyses will reveal the progression of seroprevalence of antibodies and immunity over the time.
A NEW RATIO ESTIMATOR: AN ALTERNATIVE TO REGRESSION ESTIMATOR IN SURVEY SAMPLING USING AUXILIARY INFORMATION
Authors: Subzar Mir , Maqbool S. , Raja T. A. , Sharma Prayas
Published: September 2020

The most dominant problem in the survey sampling is to obtain the better ratio estimators for the estimation of population mean or population variance. Estimation theory is enhanced by using the auxiliary information in order to improve on designs, precision and efficiency of estimators. A modified class of ratio estimator is suggested in this paper to estimate the population mean. Expressions for the bias and the mean square error of the proposed estimators are obtained. Both analytical and numerical comparison has shown the suggested estimator to be more efficient than some existing ones. The bias of the suggested estimator is also found to be negligible for the population under consideration, indicating that the estimator is as good the regression estimator and better than the other estimators under consideration.
Integrated Reporting and Investment: How are They Related?
Authors: Martanti Bernadeta Susilo , Hermanto Dessy Astuti , Noviyanti Elin , Andriany Windy Rizkika
Published: September 2020

The research aimed to explore how integrated reporting potentially impact the investor decision within mandatory and voluntary regulation. The method used was exploration of arguments from several researchers, either from theoretical and empirical basis, or literature review.  The method of this qualitative research was dividing the literature into categories which in this research would be mandatory and voluntary regulations. The sub categories were divided by two countries which were Africa and The United States as research objects. The result and discussion were integrated reporting increases the value relevance of information produced by the company and underline the way companies create a value over the short until long term by informing business model, corporate strategy, and forecasting view. The result shows that Integrated Reporting will be more useful if the Government mandates the regulation like in Africa. It is considered that when Integrated Reporting potentially impacts the investors’ decision assured by professional services, these disclosures will be more accurate and reliable. A contribution for the government to create a clear regulation of the integrated report and provide an assurance service to assure the accuracy of information in the Integrated Report will be our expectation.
Medicinal Plants and Bioactive Compounds for Diabetes Management: Important Advances in Drug Discovery
Authors: Shanmugam Kondeti R. , Shanmugam Bhasha , Subbaiah Ganjikunta V. , Ravi Sahukari , Reddy Kesireddy S.
Published: September 2020

Background :

Diabetes is a major public health problem in the world. It affects each and every part
of the human body and also leads to organ failure. Hence, great progress is made in the field of herbal medicine
and diabetic research.

Objectives:

Our review will focus on the effect of bioactive compounds of medicinal plants which are used to
treat diabetes in India and other countries.

Methods:

Information regarding diabetes, oxidative stress, medicinal plants and bioactive compounds was collected
from different search engines like Science direct, Springer, Wiley online library, Taylor and francis, Bentham
Science, Pubmed and Google scholar. Data was analyzed and summarized in the review.

Results:

Anti-diabetic drugs that are in use have many side effects on vital organs like heart, liver, kidney and
brain. There is an urgent need for alternative medicine to treat diabetes and their disorders. In India and other
countries, herbal medicine was used to treat diabetes. Many herbal plants have antidiabetic effects. The plants
like ginger, phyllanthus, gymnea, aswagandha, aloe, hibiscus and curcuma showed significant anti-hyperglycemic
activities in experimental models and humans. The bioactive compounds like Allicin, azadirachtin, cajanin,
curcumin, querceitin, gingerol possess anti-diabetic, antioxidant and other pharmacological properties.
This review focuses on the role of bioactive compounds of medicinal plants in the prevention and management
of diabetes.

Conclusion:

Moreover, our review suggests that bioactive compounds have the therapeutic potential against diabetes.
However, further in vitro and in vivo studies are needed to validate these findings.
Significance of Green Synthetic Chemistry from a Pharmaceutical Perspective
Authors: Ahsan Haseeb , Islam Salman Ul , Ahmed Muhammad Bilal , Lee Young Sup , Sonn Jong Kyung
Published: September 2020

Background:

Conventional practices of synthesis, manufacturing, and processing have led to severe
adverse consequences for living beings and the environment.

Objectives:

Although medications cannot be replaced, the methods of synthesizing, manufacturing, and processing
them can be changed and/or replaced. This paper explains the significance of green chemistry practices in
the pharmaceutical industry. It emphasizes that we must replace conventional drug synthesis, processing, and
manufacturing techniques with greener ones that are cost-effective, sustainable, environment-friendly, and profitable.

Discussion:

This paper comprises five sections. Section 1 is an introduction to green chemistry and its correlation
with the pharmaceutical industry. Section 2 discusses the metrics necessary to measure the greenness of a
process. Section 3 is about solvents used in the pharmaceutical industry, hazards, safety status, and environmental
effects, including the ozone depletion potential. Section 4 explains catalytic amidation reactions because
amides are one of the most commonly occurring functional groups with pharmacological activity. Section 5 discusses
successful cases of converting conventional synthesis of active pharmaceutical ingredients and/or their
intermediates to greener, sustainable alternatives.

Conclusion:

A balance is necessary between profits, processes, consumers, and the environment to ensure the
survival of all stakeholders and decrease the environmental burden of pharmaceuticals. Incentives such as green
chemistry awards should be endorsed and encouraged, in addition to making green chemistry part of tertiary education.
In addition, changes to rules and regulations for drug approval in the context of green chemistry principles
are necessary in order to preserve our planet for future generations.