bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Integrasi Prediksi Musim dengan Model Simulasi Tanaman untuk Penentuan Waktu Tanam Padi
Authors: Surmaini Elza , Hadi Tri Wahyu , Subagyono Kasdi , Syahputra M. Ridho
Published: June 2020

Abstrak. Penyesuaian waktu tanam merupakan upaya dengan biaya yang paling efisien untuk meningkatkan produktivitas, menstabilkan, bahkan meningkatkan ketahanan pangan. Integrasi prediksi curah hujan musim dengan model simulasi tanaman dapat digunakan untuk memberikan rekomendasi waktu tanam padi dengan hasil yang optimal. Dua tahap analog digunakan untuk memprediksi curah hujan harian untuk satu musim tanam. Analog tahap pertama untuk memprediksi curah hujan harian untuk 120 hari. Tahap kedua mencari satu analog terbaik prediksi sekuens curah hujan 120 hari. Basis data hasil tanaman padi periode 1982-2009 dengan interval harian dibangun menggunakan model simulasi tanaman. Rekomendasi waktu tanam ditentukan berdasarkan perubahan hasil dibandingkan dengan waktu tanam awal. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa prediksi curah hujan musim dengan lead time 6-9 bulan menggunakan metode downscaling dengan dua tahap analog dapat memperpanjang lag prediksi 2 bulan sebelum tanam sehingga dapat digunakan untuk peringatan dini. Integrasi prediksi curah hujan musim dengan model simulasi tanaman dapat memberikan informasi selang waktu tanam yang berpotensi untuk mendapatkan hasil yang lebih tinggi. Prediksi waktu tanam dalam bentuk selang waktu diperlukan petani , karena berbagai faktor non teknis yang menyebabkan penanaman tidak dapat dilakukan pada rekomendasi waktu tertentu. Informasi tersebut dapat digunakan oleh pengambil kebijakan dan penyuluh untuk rekomendasi kepada petani tentang waktu tanam dengan hasil padi yang lebih tinggi.

Abstract. Adapting planting time is a very cost-efficient way to increase crop productivity and stabilise or even increase food security. Linking seasonal rainfall prediction with crop simulation model is used to evaluate planting date with optimal rice yield. We used a two step analogue method. The first step is to predict 30 daily rainfall analogues for the next 120 days. The second step is to look for best analogue of 120 day rainfall prediction. Daily planting dates were simulated within 1982-2009 using crop simulation model. The second step is to determine the best analoque for the 120 day sequence. Planting time recommendation is adjusted using the difference between the earliest and later planting dates.The result concluded that 6-9 lead time seasonal rainfall prediction using two step analogue could increase lead time 2 months prior to planting time, therefore can be use for early warning. Linking season rainfall prediction with crop simulation model to adjust interval of planting time that provide higher rice yield. Farmers need that interval, due to non-technical factors are caused crop could not planted timely as recommended. In addition, the recommendation of planting time should be used by decision makers and extension workers to recommend appropriate planting time with higher yield to the farmers.
Assessment of Temperature Effects in Interior Orientation Parameters Calibration of Optoelectronic Devices
Authors: Starasotnikau M. A.
Published: June 2020

A digital micromirror device (DMD) micromirrors periodic spatial structure is a measuring scale in interior orientation parameters calibration of optoelectronic devices problems, when using a DMD as a testobject. It is important that DMD micromirrors periodic spatial structure remains constant. Change in a DMD micromirrors spatial structure may occur due to heating. In addition to heating a DMD, an optoelectronic device photodetector is also subject to heating and, accordingly, change in its spatial structure. It is necessary to estimate change in a spatial structure of DMD micromirrors and an optoelectronic device photodetector.

A DMD micromirrors spatial drift and a DMD micromirrors spatial drift together with a digital camera photodetector pixels spatial drift for operation 4 h are analyzed. The drift analysis consisted in the points array position assessing formed by a DMD and projected onto a digital camera. When analyzing only a DMD micromirrors drift, a digital camera was turned on only for shooting time for exclude digital camera influence. A digital camera did not have time to significantly heat up, during this time. After a digital camera it cooled to a room temperature.

Average drift of all DMD micromirrors determines the accuracy of interior orientation parameters calibration of optoelectronic devices using a DMD in time. Maximum drift of all micromirrors after switching on is observed. Minimum DMD warm-up time is 60 min for average drift of all micromirrors less than 1 μm is necessary. Minimum DMD warm-up time is 120 min when using a DMD together with a digital camera is necessary.

A DMD expansion uniformity determines the accuracy of interior orientation parameters calibration of optoelectronic devices using a DMD, because irregular expansion disturbs micromirrors periodicity. The average change in distance of neighboring points is less than 0.1 μm for every 20 min.

Thus, a DMD can be used as a test-object in interior orientation parameters calibration of optoelectronic devices. The results can be used as compensation coefficients of change in DMD micromirrors spatial structure due to temperature effects during operation, if more accurate are necessary.
Surface Eddy Current Probes: Excitation Systems of the Optimal Electromagnetic Field (Review)
Authors: Halchenko V. Ya. , Trembovetskaya R. V. , Tychkov V. V.
Published: June 2020

Development of technical tools with improved metrological and operational characteristics is the actual problem of the eddy current testing. Ensuring the optimal distribution of the electromagnetic excitation field in the testing zone carries out confident detection of the defects and determination of their geometrical parameters by means of eddy current testing. The purpose of the work was to conduct an analysis of scientific and technical information in the field of eddy current testing to study of the use of electromagnetic excitation fields with a priori specified properties, as well as to generalize and systematize the accumulated experience and approaches to conduct theoretical research in this direction.

A review of publications in the field of non-destructive electromagnetic testing devoted to the improvement of the excitation systems of eddy current flaw probes was carried out. The authors considered approaches in which a uniform distribution of the electromagnetic field on the control object surface was achieved by linear and non-linear optimal synthesis of excitation systems, provided the immobility of the probe relative to the testing object. Analysis of eddy current probe designs with a homogeneous excitation field created by circular, rectangular tangential and normal coils, as well as by creating a rotational excitation field was carried out. The authors studied designs of the excitation coils of probes with fields of complex configuration characterized by the original fractal geometry which can increase the probability of identifying defects that were not amenable to detection by classical probes.

Studies that suggested the formation of optimal configuration fields in a given area using magnetic cores, field concentrators made of conductive materials and specially shaped screens were analyzed. The authors studied approaches to the implementation of the optimal synthesis of excitation systems of probes with uniform sensitivity in the testing zone using surrogate optimization for cases of moving testing objects taking into account the speed effect.

The experience, as well as the results of theoretical studies devoted to the problem of designing eddy current probes with uniform sensitivity in the testing zone due to the uniform density distribution of the induced currents flowing in the object were generalized and systematized. As a result, the classification of probes on a number of features that characterize the excitation systems was proposed.
Understanding Family Caregivers’ Needs to Support Relatives with Advanced Progressive Disease at Home: An Ethnographic Study in Rural Portugal
Authors: Teixeira Maria Joao Cardoso , Abreu Wilson , Costa Nilza , Maddocks Matthew
Published: June 2020

Background: Family caregivers play an important role supporting their relatives with advanced progressive disease to live at home. There is limited research to understand family caregiver needs over time, particularly outside of high-income settings. The aim of this study was to explore family caregivers’ experiences of caring for a relative living with advanced progressive disease at home, and their perceptions of met and unmet care needs over time.
Methods: An ethnographic study comprising observations and interviews. A purposive sample of 10 family caregivers and 10 relatives was recruited within a rural area in the north of Portugal. Data were collected between 2014-16 using serial participant observations (n=33) and in-depth interviews (n=11). Thematic content analysis was used to analyse the data.
Results: Five overarching themes were yielded: (1) provision of care towards independence and prevention of complications; (2) perceived and (3) unknown caregiver needs; (4) caregivers’ physical and emotional impairments; and (5) balancing limited time. An imbalance towards any one of these aspects may lead to reduced capability and performance of the family caregiver, with increased risk of complications for their relative. However, with balance, family caregivers embraced their role over time.
Conclusions: These findings enhance understanding around the needs of family caregivers, which are optimally met when professionals and family caregivers work together with a collaborative approach over time. Patients and their families should be seen as equal partners. Family-focused care would enhance nursing practice in this context and this research can inform nursing training and educational programs.
Reducing Barriers to Post-9/11 Veterans’ Use of Programs and Services as They Transition to Civilian Life
Authors: Morgan Nicole R. , Aronson Keith R. , Perkins Daniel F. , Bleser Julia A. , Davenport Katie , Vogt Dawne , Copeland Laurel A. , Finley Erin P. , Gilman Cynthia L.
Published: June 2020

Background - Numerous programs exist to support veterans in their transitions to civilian life. Programs are offered by a host of governmental and non-governmental stakeholders. Veterans report encountering many barriers to program participation. This was the first study to identify barrier reduction strategies offered by programs that post-9/11 veterans report using, determine which strategies veterans use and value, and to examine veteran characteristics that impact their odds of using programs that offer barrier reduction strategies. Method - This study reflects findings from the first wave of data collection of The Veterans Metrics Initiative, a longitudinal study examining the military-to-civilian reintegration of post-9/11 veterans. Veterans were asked to indicate which programs they had used. The websites of these programs were coded for the barrier reduction components. Veterans also indicated which barrier reduction components they found most helpful in meeting their reintegration goals. Results - Of 9,566 veterans who participated in Wave 1 data collection, 84% reported using a program that offered at least one barrier reduction component. Barrier reduction components included tangible supports (e.g., scholarships, cash), increased access to programs, decreased stigma, and encouraged motivation to change. Although only 4% of programs that were used by veterans focused on helping them obtain Veterans Administration benefits, nearly 60% of veterans reported that this component was helpful in reaching their goals. Access assistance to other resources and supports was also reported as a helpful barrier reduction component. For instance, approximately 20% of veterans nominated programs that offered transportation. The study also found evidence of a misalignment between the kinds of barrier reduction components veterans valued and those which programs offered. Veterans from the most junior enlisted ranks, who are at most risk, were less likely than those from other ranks to use barrier reduction components. Conclusions – Despite the evidence that barrier reduction components enhance access to programs and contribute to program sustainability, many programs used by post-9/11 veterans do not offer them. There is also a misalignment between the barrier reduction strategies veterans value and the strategies offered by programs. Veteran serving organizations should increasingly implement barrier reduction strategies that veterans value.
The evaluation of the reporting quality of observational studies in Master of Public Health’s dissertations in China
Authors: Dai ShuangYang , Zhou Xiaobin , Xu Hong , Li Beibei , Zhang JinGao
Published: June 2020

Backgrounds Master of public health (MPH) plays an important role in Chinese medical education, and the dissertations is an important part of MPH education. In MPH dissertations, most are observational studies. Compared with randomized controlled trial (RCT), observational studies are more prone to information bias. So, the reporting of the observational studies should be transparent and standard. But, no research on evaluating the reporting quality of the MPH dissertation has been found.Methods A systematic literature search was performed in the Wanfang database from January 1, 2014 to May 31, 2019. The Strengthening the Reporting of Observation Studies in Epidemiology (STROBE) statement was adopted to evaluate the reporting quality of the selected studies. Articles that met the following criteria were selected: (1) observational studies, including cross-sectional studies, case-control studies, and cohort studies; (2) original articles; (3) studies on humans, including both adults and children.Results The Median of compliance to individual STROBE items was 74.79%. The mean (standard deviation) of STROBE score was 14.29 (1.84). Five items/sub-items were 100% reported (“reported” and “partly reported” were combined): background, objectives, study design, report numbers of individuals at each stage, and key result. Fifteen items/sub-items were reported by 75% or more. Reporting of methods and results was often omitted: missing data (6.67%), sensitivity analyses (3.63%), flow diagram (15.15%), and absolute risk (0%). Logistic regression analysis indicated that cohort studies (OR=3.41, 95% CI=1.27-9.16), funding support (OR=4.37, 95% CI=1.27-9.16) and more published papers during postgraduate period (OR=3.46, 95% CI=1.40-8.60) were related to high reporting quality.Conclusion In short, the reporting quality of observational studies in MPH’s dissertations in China is suboptimal. However, it’s necessary to improve the reporting of method and results sections. We recommend that authors should be stricter to adhere STROBE statement when conducting observational studies.
Genome-wide identification and characterization of cucumber bHLH family genes and the functional characterization of CsbHLH041 in NaCl and ABA tolerance in Arabidopsis and cucumber
Authors: Li Jialin , Wang Ting , Han Jing , Ren Zhonghai
Published: June 2020

Background: The basic/helix-loop-helix (bHLH) transcription factor family exists in all three eukaryotic kingdoms as important participants in biological growth and development. To date, the comprehensive genomic and functional analyses of bHLH genes has not been reported in cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.). Results: Here, a total of 142 bHLH genes were identified and classified into 32 subfamilies according to the conserved motifs, phylogenetic analysis and gene structures in cucumber. The sequences of CsbHLH proteins were highly conserved based on the results of multiple sequence alignment analyses. The chromosomal distribution, synteny analysis, and gene duplications of these 142 CsbHLHs were further analysed. Many elements related to stress responsiveness and plant hormones were present in the promoter regions of CsbHLH genes based on a cis-element analysis. By comparing the phylogeny of cucumber and Arabidopsis bHLH proteins, we found that cucumber bHLH proteins were clustered into different functional clades of Arabidopsis bHLH proteins. The expression analysis of selected CsbHLHs under abiotic stresses (NaCl, ABA and low-temperature treatments) identified five CsbHLH genes that could simultaneously respond to the three abiotic stresses. Tissue-specific expression profiles of these five genes were also analysed. In addition, 35S:CsbHLH041 enhanced the tolerance to salt and ABA in transgenic Arabidopsis and in cucumber seedlings, suggesting CsbHLH041 is an important regulator in response to abiotic stresses. Lastly, the functional interoperability network among the CsbHLH proteins was analysed. Conclusion: This study provided a good foundation for further research into the functions and regulatory mechanisms of CsbHLH proteins and identified candidate genes for stress resistance in cucumber.
MMP-13 Enzyme and pH Responsive Theranostic Nanoplatform for Osteoarthritis
Authors: lan qiumei , Chen Haimen , Pang Yunfen , Xiong Feng , Shen Chong , Qin Zainen , Zheng Li , Zhao Jinmin
Published: June 2020

Stimulus-responsive therapy permits precise control of therapeutic effect only at lesion of interest, which determines it a promising method for diagnosis and imaging-guided precision therapy. The acid environment and overexpressed matrix metalloproteinases-13 (MMP-13) are typical markers in osteoarthritis (OA), which enables the development of stimulus-responsive drug delivery system with high specificity for OA. We herein demonstrate a nano-micelle based stimuli-responsive theranostic strategy with reporting and drug release controlled by acidic PH and MMP-13 for OA therapy. Such nanoplatform is incorporated with a motif specifically targeting on cartilage, a motif responsive to matrix metalloproteinases-13 to specifically report OA condition and biodynamics of nano-micelles, an anti-inflammatory drug (e.g., psoralidin (PSO)) from traditional Chinese medicine, and a biocompatible polymeric skeleton for sustainable drug release in response to the acidic OA condition. The high effectiveness of this targeted precision therapy is demonstrated comprehensively by both in vitro and vivo evidences.
Global health systems partnerships: A mixed methods analysis of HPV vaccine delivery network actors in Mozambique
Authors: Soi Caroline , Shearer Jessica , Chilundo Baltazar , Muchanga Vasco , Matsinhe Luisa , Gimbel Sarah , Sherr Kenneth
Published: June 2020

Global health partnerships have expanded exponentially in the last two decades with Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance considered the model’s pioneer and leader because of its vaccination programs’ implementation mechanism. Gavi, relies on diverse domestic and international partners to carry out its programs in low- and middle-income countries under a Partnership Engagement Framework (PEF). We harnessed an established partnership evaluation framework, to conduct an in-depth examination of Mozambique’s Gavi driven partnership network which delivered the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine during the demonstration phase. Methods We utilized mixed methods to assess five partnership dimensions. Qualitative tools gauged contextual factors, prerequisites, partner performance and practices while a social network analysis (SNA) survey measured the partnership structure and perceived added value in terms of effectiveness, efficiency and country ownership. The 40 key informants who were interviewed included frontline ministry of health workers, ministry of education staff and supporting partner organization members, of whom 34 participated in the social network analysis survey. Results SNA measures for partnership structure revealed a partnership network characterized by high overall connectivity. Reachability 100% and average distance 2.5 scores were high, features that are favorable for rapid and widespread diffusion of information that is needed for engaging and handling multiple implementation scales. High SNA effectiveness and efficiency measures for structural holes (85%) and low redundancy (30%) coupled with high mean perceived effectiveness (97.6%) and efficiency (79.5%) outcome scores were observed. Additionally, the tie strength average score of 4.1 on a scale of 5 denoted high professional trust. These are all markers of a partnership where disparate institutions and organizations worked in a collaborative environment in which each entity’s comparative advantage was leveraged. Lower perceived outcome scores for country ownership (24%) were found with the challenges of working with out-of-country partners being prominently cited by study participants as reasons. Conclusions While there is room for improvement on the country ownership aspects of the partnership, the expanded, diverse and inclusive collaboration of institutions and organizations that implemented the Mozambique HPV vaccine demonstration project was effective and efficient and we recommend that the country adapt a similar model during the national scale up.
Development and external validation of a nomogram for predicting the effect of tumor size on survival of patients with perihilar cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Zhang Yaodong , Wu Zhengshan , Wang Xing , Li Changxian , Chang Jiang , Jiang Wangjie , Wang Hongwei , Wang Yirui , Li Xiangcheng
Published: June 2020

Background: The effect of tumor size on account of the long-term survival results in perihilar cholangiocarcinoma (PCCA) patients has remained a controversial debate. It is urgent necessary to identify the optimal cutoff value of tumor size in PCCA and integrate tumor size with other prognostic factors into a nomogram to improve the predictive accuracy of the prognosis of patients with PCCA. Methods: 363 PCCA patients underwent surgical resection were extracted from the Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results (SEER) database. X-tile program was used to identify the optimal cutoff value of tumor size. A nomogram including tumor size was established to predict 1-, 3- and 5-year cancer-specific survival (CSS) based on the independent risk factors chosen by Kaplan-Meier methods and multivariable cox regression models. The precision of the nomogram for predicting survival was validated internally and externally. Results: PCCA patients underwent surgical resection were classified into 1-19 mm, 20-33 mm and ³34 mm subgroup based on the optimal cutoff for tumor size in terms of CSS. And we noticed that more larger tumor size group had worse tumor grade, advanced T stage, more positive regional lymph nodes and more frequency vascular invasion. The nomogram according to the independent factors was well calibrated and displayed better discrimination power than 7 th Tumor-Node-Metastasis (TNM) stage systems. Conclusions: The results demonstrated that the larger the tumor size was, the worse the survival would be. The proposed nomogram, which outperforms the conventional TNM staging system, showed consistently reliability and clinically practicality for predicting the prognosis of PCCA patients.
Relationship between neuropsychology, clinical traits, psychopathology and attitudes towards change in eating disorders
Authors: Mata-Saenz Beatriz , Rodríguez-Cano Teresa , Muñoz-Martínez Victoria Eugenia , Beato-Fernández Luis
Published: June 2020

Background: The interest of research on the neuropsychological characteristics of eating disorders (EDs) has primarily focused on inhibitory control, set-shifting and central coherence, as well as attention bias and decision making. These neuropsychological aspects may also influence attitudes towards therapeutic change and be related to a more severe clinical status. The objective of this paper was to analyse the relationship of psychopathological and clinical variables with neuropsychological characteristics of patients with EDs and to determine possible influence of these variables on patients’ attitude towards change. Methods: An observational analytical cross-sectional study was performed. The participants were 74 consecutive outpatients who received treatment at an ED unit during a 6-month period. They were assessed using clinical (Psychiatric Status Rating Scale, modified) and neuropsychological tests (Letter Number Sequencing test; Stroop test; Symbol Digit Modalities Test; Rey-Osterrieth Complex Figure Test). They were asked to complete several self-report psychopathological questionnaires (Body Shape Questionnaire; Eating Disorders Inventory; Beck Depression Inventory; State-Trait Anxiety Inventory; Dissociative Experiences Scale; Attitudes Towards Change in Eating Disorders Scale), but 23 participants (31.08%) did not return them. Descriptive statistics and multivariate analysis were performed to study the relationships between clinical and psychopathological neuropsychological variables.Results: Nineteen patients (25.68%) were diagnosed with restricting anorexia nervosa (AN), 19 (25.68%) with purging AN, 14 with bulimia nervosa (18.92%), 9 with binge eating disorder (12.16%) and 13 with ED not otherwise specified (17.57%). There were no significant differences among the groups in the scores on neuropsychological tests. BMI was related to the majority of the neuropsychological scores. “Precontemplation” was related to copy time (B=3.56; 95% CI (0.82-6.29), p<0.01) and memory time (B=-2.31; 95% CI (-4.58-(-0.05)); p<0.05). “Contemplation” was related to copy time (B=1.43; 95% CI (0.42-2.45); p<0.01) and style (B= -14.01; 95% CI (-24.98-(3.04)); p<0.01). “Decision” was related to working memory (SpanLN), the quantitative copy score, order and style.Conclusions: In EDs, neuropsychological dysfunction could be associated with decreased motivation to change. Hence, a comprehensive therapeutic framework should be established with the aim of providing neurocognitive training in addition to conventional therapy. This approach could enhance acknowledgment of the problem and improve the decisional balance.
The Effect of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia in People with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, Pilot RCT Part II: Diabetes Health Outcomes
Authors: Alshehri Mohammed , Alothman Shaima A. , Alenazi Aqeel M. , Rucker Jason L. , Phadnis Milind A. , Miles John M. , Siengsukon Catherine F. , Kluding Patricia M.
Published: June 2020

Background: Previous studies have shown the negative impact of sleep disturbances, specifically insomnia symptoms, on glucose metabolism for people with type 2 diabetes (T2D). People with insomnia symptoms are at risk of poor glycemic control and suboptimal diabetes self-care behavior (DSCB). Investigating the impact of a safe and effective intervention for individuals with T2D and insomnia symptoms on diabetes’ health outcomes is needed. Therefore, the aim of this exploratory study is to examine the effects of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I) on glycemic control, DSCB, and fatigue. Methods: Twenty-eight participants with T2D and insomnia symptoms, after passing an eligibility criteria at a medical research center, were randomly assigned to CBT-I (n=14) or Health Education (HE; n=14). The CBT-I and HE groups received 6 weekly one-hour sessions. This Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT) used a non-inferiority framework to test the effectiveness of CBT-I. Validated assessments were administered at baseline and post-intervention to assess glycemic control, DSCB, and fatigue. A Wilcoxon signed-rank test was utilized to compare within-group changes from baseline to post-intervention. A Mann-Whitney test was utilized to measure the between-group differences. Linear regression was used to assess the association between the blood glucose level and the number of days in the CBT-I group. Results: The recruitment duration was from October 2018 to May 2019. A total of 13 participants completed the interventions in each group and are included in the final analysis. No adverse events, because of being a part of this RCT, were reported. CBT-I participants showed significantly greater improvement in glycemic control, DSCB, and fatigue. There was a significant association between the number of days in the CBT-I intervention with the blood glucose level before bedtime (B=-0.56, p=.009) and after awakening in the morning (B=-0.57, p=.007). Conclusions: This study demonstrated a clinically meaningful effect of CBT-I on glycemic control in people with T2D and insomnia symptoms. Also, CBT-I positively impacted daytime functioning, including DSCB and fatigue. Future research is needed to investigate the long-term effects of CBT-I on laboratory tests of glycemic control and to understand the underlying mechanisms of any improvements.Trial registration: Clinical Trials Registry (NCT03713996). Registered 22 October 2018, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03713996
COVID-19: A scoping review
Authors: Berhe Brhane , Legese Haftom , Degefa Hagos , Adhanom Gebre , Gebrewahd Aderajew , Mardu Fitsum , Tesfay Kebede , Kahsu Getachew , Welay Miglas , Negash Hadush
Published: June 2020

Background: Globally, the novel coronavirus is a pandemic disease causing severe human infections. The severe acute respiratory syndrome 2 is causing severe and life-threatening complications. Methods: A scoping review was conducted following the methodological framework. In this scoping review, 70 records as of May 21, 2020, were included and discussed to better understand the current updates of the virus. PubMed, BioRxiv, MedRxiv, Global Health and google scholars were searched comprehensively for articles, preprints, grey literature, reports, conference proceedings and expert information. Studies conducted in human and published in the English language were included in the review. All the findings and statements of the review regarding the outbreak are based on published data.Results: We identified 408 records, of which 70 studies met the inclusion criteria. We synthesized the data from the included records and deep insights were extracted. The impact of the outbreak is worsening due to overcrowding, presence of asymptomatic carriers, scarcity of test kits, the immune escaping ability of the virus and lack of community awareness.Conclusions and recommendations: Due to the fast-spreading nature of the severe acute respiratory syndrome 2 the prevention and control strategies become challenging. It is imposing social, psychological, and socio-economic impacts. Adherence to physical distancing, quarantining suspects, using personal protective equipment, health education and introducing appropriate handwashing practices, avoiding contact with animals, improved control, and prevention strategies are recommended.
Correlation between immunity from BCG and the morbidity and mortality of COVID-19
Authors: Wickramasinghe Dakshitha , Wickramasinghe Nilanka , Kamburugamuwa Sohan Anjana , Arambepola Carukshi , Samarasekera Dharmabandhu N
Published: June 2020

Background To investigate the association between parameters indicating immunity from BCG at country level (presence of BCG vaccination policy, BCG coverage, age-specific incidence of tuberculosis(TB)) and the morbidity and mortality of COVID-19. Methods Country-specific data for COVID-19 cases and deaths, demographic details, BCG coverage and policy, age-specific TB incidence and income level were obtained. The crude COVID-19 cases and deaths per 100,000 population were calculated and assessed against the parameters indicating immunity from BCG using linear regression analysis. Results Univariate analysis identified higher income level of a country to be significantly associated with COVID-19 cases (p<0.0001) and deaths (p<0.0001) but not with its case fatality rate. The association between COVID-19 and TB was strongest for TB incidence in patients >65-years (Cases(rs=-0.785,p=0.0001)) and deaths (rs=-0.647,p=0.0001).Multivariate analysis identified the higher income level of a country and not having a universal BCG vaccination policy to affect the COVID-19 cases. The deaths were inversely affected by the presence of BCG vaccination policy and coverage; and positively by the TB incidence in patients >65-years. Conclusion Significant inverse correlations observed between cases and deaths of COVID-19 and BCG related parameters highlights immunity from BCG as a likely explanation for the variation in COVID-19 across countries.
Age-Structured Model for COVID-19: Effectiveness of Social Distancing and Contact Reduction
Authors: Kimathi Mark , Mwalili Samuel , Ojiambo Viona , Gathungu Duncan
Published: June 2020

Background: Coronavirus disease 2019 is caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2. The disease has spread to almost every country in the world. Kenya reported its first case on 13th of March 2020. From 16th March 2020, the country instituted various social distancing strategies to reduce the transmission and flatten the epidemic curve. These strategies include school closure, dusk-to-dawn curfew, and travel restriction across counties, especially Nairobi, Mombasa and Kwale. An age-structured compartmental model was developed to assess the impact of non-pharmaceutical interventions on severity of infections, hospital demands and deaths. Methods: The population is divided into four age-groups and for each age-group there are seven compartments, namely: susceptible , exposed, asymptomatic, mild, severe, critical, death and recovered. The contact matrices between the different ages are integrated into an age-structured deterministic model via the force of infection. This model is represented by ordinary differential equations and solved using Runge–Kutta methods, with suitable model parameters. Simulation results for the unmitigated and mitigated scenarios were depicted, for the different age-groups. Results: The 45% reduction in contacts for 60-days period resulted to between 11.5-13% reduction of infections severity and deaths, while for the 190-days period yielded between 18.8-22.7% reduction. The peak of infections in the 60-days mitigation was higher and happened about 2 months after the relaxation of mitigation as compared to that of the 190-days mitigation, which happened just a month after mitigation were relaxed. Low numbers of cases in children under 15 years was attributed to low susceptibility of persons in this age-group. High numbers of cases are reported in the 15-29 years and 30-59 years age bands since these individuals have wider interaction spheres, and they form a significant percentage of Kenya population. Conclusion: Two mitigation periods, considered in the study, resulted to reductions in severe and critical cases, attack rates, hospital and ICU bed demands, as well as deaths, with the 190-days period giving higher reductions. The study revealed the age-dependency of the key health outputs.
The Status and Associated Factors of Early Childhood Caries among 3- to 5-year-old Children in Guangdong, Southern China: A Provincial Cross-sectional Survey
Authors: Li Jianbo , Fan Weihua , Zhou Yueshan , Wu Linmei , Liu Wei , Huang Shaohong
Published: June 2020

Background: Dental caries of deciduous teeth (Early Childhood Caries, ECC) has become a crucial oral health problem over the decades in China. The aim of this study was to examine the prevalence and severity of ECC among preschool children from Guangdong Province, Southern China. In addition, to assess the association of ECC with reported oral health-related behaviors.Methods: A cross-sectional survey was carried out in Guangdong Province by means of an equal-sized, stratified, multistage random sampling method. According to the standard for clinical dentition examination of the WHO 2013 criteria, the presence of ECC was determined by the dmft (decayed-missing-filled tooth) index using a CPI (Community Periodontal Index) probe. A questionnaire about caries-related factors was completed by each of the participants’ parents or grandparents through a face-to-face and one-on-one interview. Then, t-test, Chi2 tests, One-Way ANOVA served for statistical analysis, and logistic regression analysis as well as covariance analysis were executed to identify potential associated factors for ECC.Results: There were 2592 3- to 5-year-old preschool children. The prevalence (% dmft >0) of ECC was 68.3 (95% CI: 66.5-70.1), the mean dmft was 4.36 (95% CI: 4.17-4.55), and the filled rate was 1.2%. In multivariable modeling, associated factors for both prevalence and mean dmft were older age, rural areas, consumption of sweets before sleep, dental visit history, low household income, and low parental education level. Initiating toothbrushing after 3 years of age and being exclusively/ predominantly breastfed indicated only the prevalence; being female and frequently consuming sweetened milk/powdered milk indicated only the mean dmft.Conclusions: The preschool children in Guangdong Province experienced a significant amount of ECC. More attention should be given to children’s dental health for deciduous teeth. Associated factors for ECC included demographics, oral health measures, dietary factors, and socioeconomic factors.
Use of MicroRNA Expression Profile For The Discrimination of Multiple Primary Lung Cancers From Intrapulmonary Metastasis
Authors: Zhou Xudong , Huang Jian , Xia Jie
Published: June 2020

Background: The increasing number of patients with multifocal lung cancers (MFLCs) complicates tumor, node, and metastasis (TNM) staging and treatment assignments. Clinical guidelines, comprehensive histologic subtyping (CHS) and molecular analyses are available to help distinguish multiple primary lung cancers (MPLCs) from intrapulmonary metastasis (IPM). However, these guidelines and criteria are difficult to apply and often lead to conflicting results. Methods: We enrolled 44 patients with MFLCs, 32 of whom had tumors with the same histology. We assessed their statuses using existing guidelines, which led to integrated results. Twelve patients with lymph-node metastasis (LNM) were selected for comparison. Results: The sum of the differences of five microRNAs (miRNAs) in matched tumors was evaluated by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). All 12 patients with LNM showed a sum of differences of < 9 in terms of miRNA expression between primary tumors and LNM. According to the integrated analysis, seven patients were diagnosed with definite MPLCs, which were newly classified as MPLCs according to the miRNA criteria. Four patients with “no definite conclusion” according to the integrated analysis were newly classified by the miRNA criteria. The results between the integrated analysis and the miRNA criteria were contradictory in 7 patients and consistent in 14 patients. Conclusions: A gold standard has yet to be developed for MPLCs. However, currently, an analysis of the miRNA expression profile is a useful way to distinguish MPLCs from intrapulmonary metastasis.
Using the Delphi Technique to Determine Objectives and Topical Outline for a Pharmaceutical Care Course: An Experience from the Cuban Higher Education System
Authors: Martínez-Sánchez Alina M.
Published: June 2020

Background: How implement pharmaceutical care in pharmacy curriculum remains a recurring question at the pharmacy education setting. The purpose was to define course objectives and topic outline for a pharmaceutical care course in a pharmacy curriculum. Methods: A two-round modified Delphi process was used to obtain opinions from assessment experts on the objectives and topic outline for a pharmaceutical care course in a pharmacy curriculum. Pharmacy Professors from Cuban, European, Latin American and North American universities were invited to participate in the study. A number of 15 experts was considered. Issues addressed included: about the theoretical program foundation; recommended for teaching literature; instructional and educational objectives of the programme; teaching methods; knowledge, skills and professional values considered; and students performance assessment. Results: Responses were received from 15 panel experts. The experts made ​​recommendations regarding the relation between the topic and objectives, and referred to the literature, suggesting that texts in the Spanish language should be included in the program. Consensus was achieved for 100% of the proposed items. The final list was composed of 10 objectives for three subjects. The added items included a basic text in Spanish and some papers published in this language were considered as part of the complementary bibliography. The design objectives were updated to ensure that they correspondent to the topics designed for each course. Suggestions related to the relationship between objectives and topics were identified. Conclusion: The process identified a consensus for course objectives and topics for a pharmaceutical care course. The Delphi method can be an effective means for the definition and validation of objectives and topics outline to implement pharmaceutical care in a pharmacy curriculum
15-year Follow-up of Comparing Mastoscopic and Conventional Axillary Dissection in Breast Cancer: A Multicentres, Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Luo Chengyu , Cao Guang , Guo wenbin , Yang Jie , Sun Qiuru , Wei Wei , Wu Suhua , Fang Shubing , Zeng Qingliang , Zhao Zhensheng , Meng Fanjie , Huang Xuandong , Zhang Xianlan , Li Ruihua , Ma Xiufeng , Luo Chaoying , Yang Yun
Published: June 2020

Backgroud: Longer follow-up was necessary to testify the exact value of mastoscopic axillary lymph node dissection (MALND).Methods：From January 1, 2003 to December 31, 2005,1027 patients with operable breast cancer were randomly assigned to two groups: MALND and CALND. 996 eligible patients were enrolled. The end points are disease free survival and overall survival.Results：The final cohort of 996 patients was followed for an average of 184 months. The distribution of all events was fairly similar between two groups of patients. The incidence of local in-breast events did not differ in a significant manner between two cohorts. Similarly, the rate of distant metastases was not significantly different with 30.0% in MLND and 32.6% in CALND. And no significant difference was observed in other primary tumor between two groups (p=0.46). Patients who remain alive with no event comprise a total of 37.2% in MALND and 35.4% in CALND. Other primary cancers and deaths from other causes were distributed equally between two groups. The 15-year disease-free survival rates were41.1 percent for the MALND group and 39.6 percent for the CALND group (p=0.79). MALND was found to be not inferior for overall survival (P =0.54). The 15-year overall survival rates were 49.5 percentafter MALND and 51.2 percentafter CALND (p=0.86). Probability of overall survival was not significantly different between two groups.Conclusions：MALND does not increase unfavorable events, and also does not affect the long-term survival of patients. Therefore, MALND should be one of the preferred approaches for breast cancer surgery.
Effect of Sterilized Rumen Fluid Supplementation Ways in Lactation Period on Rumen Microflora of Calves after Weaning
Authors: Lin Xueyan , Zhang Tian , Jiang Yue , Hou Qiuling , Wang Yun , Hu zhiyong , Wang zhonghua
Published: June 2020

Background: The presence of the rumen makes the ruminant special, and the rumen flora has an important influence on the ruminant. The rumen is not fully developed in young ruminants. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of supplemental feeding of rumen fluid from high-yielding dairy cows with suckling calves on rumen microflora after weaning. For the experiment, 12 newborn Holstein male calves with the same feeding environment and similar ages were selected. They were randomly divided into 3 groups, with 4 in each group. The three treatments were: addition of sterilized rumen fluid to milk (Group M), addition of sterilized rumen fluid to starter feed (Group S), and a normal fed control group (Group C). The growth performance indices and blood indices were measured, and rumen fluid samples were collected after weaning. Furthermore, 16S rDNA sequencing and LC-MS metabolome detection were performed.Results: Compared with the control group, the growth performance of group S was significantly increased, and the difference between group M and group C was not significant. For the immune indicators in the blood, group M showed a greater difference from group C; the blood-related and energy-related indicators were less different between the two test groups and the control group. For the rumen fluid microbiome and metabolome detection, both groups M and S showed significant differences from group C.Conclusions: The microflora and metabolites were different due to different supplementary feeding methods. Metabolites with differential levels were mainly involved in metabolic pathways such as amino acid metabolism, nucleotide metabolism, and carbohydrate metabolism.
Identification of a metabolism-related gene expression prognostic model in endometrial carcinoma patients
Authors: Jiang Pinping , Sun Wei , Shen Ningmei , Huang Xiaohao , Fu Shilong
Published: June 2020

Background: Metabolic abnormalities have recently been widely studied in various cancer types. This study aims to explore the expression profiles of metabolism-related genes (MRGs) in endometrial cancer (EC). Methods: We analyzed the expression of MRGs using The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) data to screen differentially expressed MRGs (DE-MRGs) significantly correlated to EC patients’ prognosis. Functional pathway enrichment analysis of DE-MRGs were investigated. LASSO algorithm and Cox regression analysis were performed to select MRGs closely related to EC patients’ outcomes. A prognostic signature was developed and the efficacy were validated in part of and the entire TCGA EC cohort. Moreover, we developed a comprehensive nomogram including the risk model and clinical features to predict EC patients' survival probability.Results: Forty-seven differentially expressed MRGs (DE-MRGs) were significantly correlate to EC patients’ prognosis. Functional enrichment analysis showed these MRGs were highly enriched in amino acid, glycolysis, and glycerophospholipid metabolism. Nine MRGs were screened out to closely relate to EC patients’ outcomes, which are CYP4F3, CEL, GPAT3, LYPLA2, HNMT, PHGDH, CKM, UCK2 and ACACB. Based on nine DE-MRGs, we developed a prognostic signature and its efficacy in part of and the entire TCGA EC cohort was validated. The nine-MRGs signature was independent of other clinical features, and could effectively distinguish high- or low-risk EC patients and predicted patients' OS. The nomogram showed excellent consistency between prediction and actual survival observation. Conclusions: The MRG prognostic model and the comprehensive nomogram could guide for precise outcom predicting and rational therapy in clinical practice.