bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Molecular epidemiology of a fatal sarcoptic mange epidemic in endangered San Joaquin kit foxes (Vulpes macrotis mutica)
Authors: Rudd Jaime L. , Clifford Deana L. , Cypher Brian L. , Hull Joshua M. , Riner A. Jane , Foley Janet E.
Published: June 2020

Background: In 2013, sarcoptic mange, caused by Sarcoptes scabiei mites, precipitated a catastrophic decline of the formerly stable urban population of endangered San Joaquin kit foxes ( Vulpes macrotis mutica ) in Bakersfield, California, USA. In 2019, a smaller sarcoptic mange outbreak affected kit foxes 58 km southwest of Bakersfield in the town of Taft, California. To determine whether the Taft outbreak could have occurred as spillover from the Bakersfield outbreak and whether epidemic control efforts must involve not only kit foxes but also sympatric dogs ( Canis lupus familiaris ), coyotes ( Canis latrans ), and red foxes ( Vulpes vulpes ), we evaluated genotypes and gene flow among mites collected from each host species.Methods: We used 10 Sarcoptes microsatellite markers (SARM) to perform molecular typing of 445 S. scabiei mites collected from skin scrapings from twenty-two infested kit foxes, two dogs, five coyotes, and five red foxes from Bakersfield, Taft, and other nearby cities.Results: We identified 60 alleles across all SARM loci; kit fox- and red fox-derived mites were relatively monomorphic, while genetic variability was greatest in Bakersfield coyote- and dog-derived mites. AMOVA analysis documented distinct mite populations unique to hosts, with an overall F ST of 0.467. The lowest F ST (i.e. closest genetic relationship, F ST = 0.038) was between Bakersfield and Taft kit fox-derived mites while the largest genetic difference was between Ventura coyote- and Taft kit fox-derived mites (F ST = 0.843).Conclusion: These results confirm the close relationship between the Taft and Bakersfield outbreaks. The Sarcoptes host specificity suggests that, although an inter-species spillover event likely initiated the kit fox mange outbreak, mite transmission is now primarily intraspecific. Therefore, any large-scale population level intervention should focus on treating kit foxes within the city.
Point prevalence mapping reveals hotspot for onchocerciasis transmission in the Ndikinimeki Health District (Centre Region, Cameroon)
Authors: Aza’ah Afor René , Sumo Laurentine , Ntonifor Ngum Helen , Bopda Jean , Heumou Rolph Bamou , Djeunga Hugues Nana
Published: June 2020

Background
Ivermectin-based preventive chemotherapy is distributed annually to all at risk eligible individuals to fight onchocerciasis. Data reporting the impact of mass ivermectin administration on onchocerciasis transmission are scanty, and it is tricky to appreciate the progress towards elimination and engage adapted corrective measures. To fill that gap in the Centre Region in Cameroon, this study aimed at assessing onchocerciasis endemicity level in the Ndikinimeki Health District after almost three decades of mass treatments.
Methods
As part of a cluster-based cross-sectional survey, all volunteers aged ≥ 5 years were (i) interviewed on their compliance to ivermectin over the past five years and (ii) underwent clinical (nodule palpation and visual search for onchocercal lesions) and parasitological examinations (skin snip) for onchocerciasis.
Results
The overall O. volvulus prevalence was 7.0% (95% CI: 5.2–9.3), significantly higher in the communities Kiboum 1 and Kiboum 2 compared to the other communities (highest prevalence in Makénéné Town Water: 8.5%; 95% CI: 2.3–20.4) (Chi-square = 51.314; df = 11; p = 0.0001). The proportion of systematic non compliers was relatively high (23.3%; 95% CI: 19.9–27.1) among individuals interviewed. In the sentinel sites (Kiboum communities), river blindness prevalence decreased from 95.2% (95% CI: 88.3–98.1) to 23.7% (95% CI: 14.7–36.0) thanks to 28 years of annual ivermectin but was still meso-endemic to onchocerciasis.
Conclusions
After almost three decades of preventive chemotherapy, onchocerciasis is now hypo-endemic in the Ndikinimeki Health District. However, transmission is ongoing, with a potential hotspot near Kiboum 1 and Kiboum 2 known as first line communities (closest to breeding sites of the vector). Alternative or complementary strategies to annual ivermectin appear compulsory to accelerate the momentum towards onchocerciasis elimination.
Immunomodulatory and Anti-psoriatic Effects of Herbal Formula SC-E1 on Imiquimod-induced Psoriasis in Mice
Authors: Lee Ju-Hee , Ahn Jung Yun , Koo Deog-Bon , Lim Chi-Yeon , Kim Chang-Hyun
Published: June 2020

Background: Psoriasis is a chronic and relapsing inflammatory autoimmune skin disease. We recently reported that SC-E1 has various beneficial biological effects, including anti-inflammatory activity in an in vitro experimental study. Therefore, SC-E1 has been expected as complementary and alternative medicines for various inflammatory autoimmune skin diseases, including psoriasis. In this study, we investigated the potential anti-psoriatic effect of SC-E1 using an imiquimod (IMQ)-induced skin inflammation in mice and explored the mechanism underlying those actions. Methods: Psoriatic dermatitis was induced by repeated challenges with IMQ on the backs of C57BL/6 mice. SC-E1 (250 mg/kg, 500 mg/kg, and 1000 mg/kg) was administered to the mice orally once a day by oral gavage needle for 5 days before and together with IMQ application for another 7 days (totally 12 days of treatment). The anti-psoriatic effects of SC-E1 were evaluated by dermatitis score, skin histology, and immunological parameters. In addition, the mechanisms responsible for the immunomodulatory effect of SC-E1 were examined using p38 MAPK, IκBα, and NF-κB.Results: We found that SC-E1 (500 mg/kg) or SC-E1 (1000 mg/kg) pretreatment ameliorated the development of IMQ-induced skin inflammation in mice. Histological analysis revealed a reduction of epidermal thickening, hyperkeratosis, and inflammatory cell infiltration in SC-E1 (500 mg/kg) or SC-E1 (1000 mg/kg) pretreatment. Moreover, SC-E1 (500 mg/kg) or SC-E1 (1000 mg/kg) pretreatment effectively attenuated production of Th1 cytokines (TNF-a, IFN-g) and Th17 cytokines (IL-17A and IL-23) in the serum and dorsal skin induced by IMQ in mice. SC-E1 (500 mg/kg) or SC-E1 (1000 mg/kg) pretreatment also inhibited splenomegaly. In addition, SC-E1 inhibited the expression of inflammatory modulators, such as p38 MAPK, IκBα, and NF-κB in the skin of mice induced by IMQ. Conclusion: Our present study demonstrated that the immunomodulatory mechanism underlying the anti-psoriatic effect of SC-E1 on IMQ-induced in mice may be attributed to the inhibition of production of various systemic proinflammatory mediators via a mechanism that may involve the inhibition of MAPK and NF-κB signaling pathway. Based on the results we suggest that SC-E1 could be considered as an anti-psoriatic agent for the prevention or treatment of inflammatory autoimmune skin diseases including psoriasis.
A 3-year Longitudinal Study of the Effects of Physical Activity and Sedentary Behaviors on Childhood Obesity in China: The Childhood Obesity Study in China Mega-Cities
Authors: Sun Xiaomin , Zhao Bingtong , Liu Jin , Wang Yun , Xu Fei , Wang Youfa , Xue Hong
Published: June 2020

Objectives: Examine school children’s physical activity (PA) and sedentary behaviors (SB) during 2015-2017 and study their effects on children’s weight status and their relevant gender differences in China. Methods: This open cohort study included students from 5 major cities (Beijing, Shanghai, Xi’an, Nanjing, and Chengdu) across China. Data were collected from students in 2015, 2016, and 2017 (n = 5,535) and from their parents and school personnel. Children’s weight, height, and waist circumference were measured. SB and PA factors were evaluated using questionnaires. Mixed effects models examined the relationship between weight status and PA/SB-associated factors using this longitudinal data. Results: These children had high rates of obesity (12.4%, 95% CI 11.6%-13.3%) and central obesity (28.1%, 95% CI 26.9%-29.3%) during 2015-2017. Boys were more likely to be obese (16.5% vs. 8.4%) and central obese (36.3% vs. 19.8%) and spent more time in screen viewing than girls (hours/week ± SD: 2015, 1.8 ± 2.5 vs. 1.5 ± 2.0; 2016, 2.0 ± 2.4 vs. 1.8 ± 2.5; 2017, 1.7 ± 2.3vs. 1.4 ± 2.1 hours/week). Those who walked ＜ 5 minutes on their average daily walk to school were more likely to be obese (OR: 1.96, 95% CI 1.03-3.73) than those who spent ≥ 15 minutes on walking to school. When stratified by gender, this higher risk was only observed in girls (OR: 3.01, 95% CI 1.09-8.35). Children who spent more time in screen viewing were more likely to be obese (OR: 1.13, 95% CI 1.06-1.21) and have central obesity (OR: 1.05, 95% CI 1.02-1.09). The association for obesity was consistent in boys and girls (boys, OR: 1.15, 95% CI 1.05-1.25; girls, OR: 1.12, 95% CI 1.00-1.24). Conclusions: More screen time and less active time were risk factors for developing obesity in urban Chinese children. The associations varied by gender.
Identification of an autophagy-related gene expression prognostic model in endometrial carcinoma patients
Authors: Jiang Pinping , Sun Wei , Shen Ningmei , Wang Qiang , Wang Shouyu , Fu Shilong
Published: June 2020

Background

Autophagy, as a lysosomal degradation pathway, has been reported to be involved in various pathologies, including cancer. However, the expression profiles of autophagy-related genes (ARGs) in endometrial cancer (EC) remain poorly understood.
Methods

In this study, 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. Gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) 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

Ninety-four ARGs significantly dysregulated in EC samples compared with the normal control samples. Functional enrichment analysis showed these differentially expressed ARGs (DE-ARGs) were highly enriched in apoptosis, P53 signaling pathway, and various cancer development. Among the 94 DE-ARGs, we subsequently screen out four-ARGs closely related to EC patients outcomes, which are ERBB2, PTEN, TP73 and ARSA. Based on the expression and coefficiency of 4 DE-ARGs, we developed a prognostic signature and further validated its efficacy in part of and the entire TCGA EC cohort. The four ARGs signature was independent of other clinical features, and was proved to effectively distinguish high- or low-risk EC patients and predicted patients' OS accurately. Moreover, the nomogram showed the excellent consistency between the prediction and actual observation in terms of patients' 3- and 5-year survival rates.
Conclusions

It was suggested that the ARG prognostic model and the comprehensive nomogram may guide the precise outcome prediction and rational therapy in clinical practice.
Development and validation of a questionnaire to assess facilitators and barriers to physical activity for patients with rheumatoid arthritis, axial spondyloarthritis or psoriatic arthritis
Authors: DAVERGNE Thomas , Moe Rikke H , Fautrel Bruno , Gossec Laure
Published: June 2020

Objectives: The objective was to develop and validate a self-administered questionnaire to identify in people with Inflammatory arthritis (IA) Facilitators And Barriers to Physical activity (PA): the IFAB questionnaire. Methods: The development of the questionnaire included a systematic review of barriers and facilitators to PA to identify key themes, face validity assessment by 11 experts and cognitive debriefing with 14 patients. The psychometric properties of the questionnaire were assessed by convergent validity (Spearman correlation) against the modified Health Assessment Questionnaire (mHAQ), the Fear-Avoidance Beliefs Questionnaire subscale for PA and the Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia, internal consistency (Cronbach α) in 63 IA patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) or psoriatic arthritis (PsA). Reliability and feasibility were assessed in 32 IA patients. Results: The questionnaire comprises 10 items: 4 assessing either barriers or facilitators, 3 assessing barriers and 3 assessing facilitators. The items are related to: psychological status (N=6), social support (N=2), disease (N=1), environmental factors (N=1). In the validation study of 63 patients: 26 RA, 24 axSpA, 13 PsA; mean age 52.8 (standard deviation 16.5) years, mean disease duration 12.5 (12.3) years, 53% women. The questionnaire was correlated (r=0.24) with mHAQ. Internal consistency (Cronbach α 0.69) and reliability (interclass coefficient 0.79 [95% confidence interval 0.59; 0.88]) were satisfactory, as was feasibility (missing data 12%, mean completion time <5 minutes).Conclusion: The questionnaire allows the assessment of barriers and facilitators to PA in patients with IA. This questionnaire may guide targeted interventions to increase levels of PA in these patients.
The lncRNA-MALAT1/miR-126-5p Axis Promotes Growth and Metastasis of Gastric Cancer through Regulation of VEGFA
Authors: Hu Zhi-Li , Hu Yang-zhi , Li Qing , Liao Tian-you , Jiang Hai-ping
Published: June 2020

Background: It has been reported that reduction of miR-126 can promote the progression of gastric cancer (GC). However, the regulation of miR-126 in GC is still unclear. This study aims to explore the correlation between lncRNA MALAT1 and miR-126 in gastric cancer and disclose the underlying mechanisms.Methods: We analyzed the correlation of MALAT1 levels and clinical features by analysis of bioinformatic data and human samples. Then we down-regulate the expression of MALAT1 in AGS cells and examined the characteristics of cell proliferation, cycle, apoptosis, migration, invasion, and the effect on miR-126 as well as VEGFA and signaling pathway. In addition, we demonstrated the role of MALAT1/miR-126 axis in GC with dual-luciferase reporter gene assay and treatment of miR-126 inhibitor.Results: The expression of MALAT1 was higher in cancer tissues than para-cancer tissues. In addition, high MALAT1 level suggested greater malignancy and poorer prognosis. Down-regulating the expression of MALAT1 in AGS cells inhibited cell proliferation, migration, and invasion by targeting VEGFA, which is consistent with up-regulation of miR-126. According to dual-luciferase reporter gene assay and treatment of miR-126 inhibitor, we demonstrated that MALAT1 down-regulated miR-126 in GC, which leads to the up-regulation of VEGFA and activation of mTOR signaling pathway.Conclusions: MALAT1/miR-126 axis promotes growth and metastasis of gastric cancer through regulation of VEGFA via mTOR signaling pathway.Fund This article is supported by Science and Technology Funding Project of Hunan Province, China (No.2017SK4010)
Exploring the Effect of Problem Based Facilitatory Teaching Approach on Motivation to Learn in Nursing Education: A Quasi-Experimental Study of Nurse Students in Tanzania
Authors: Millanzi Walter Cleophace , Kibusi Stephen M.
Published: June 2020

Background: Currently, there has been a progressive shortage of not only the number of frontline healthcare providers but also a decline in the quality of nursing care. Reports about unethical and illegal practices, under standard care and malpractices are not uncommon around the globe. There is a growing concern to rethink the approaches on how nurses are prepared, explore, and test novel approaches for delivering the nursing curricula. This study tested the effect of Problem Based Facilitatory Teaching Approach on motivation to learn among nursing students in Tanzania, higher learning institutions. Methods: A pre-post test controlled quasi-experimental study of purposively selected 401 participants was conducted between February and June 2018. The Auditing Inventory developed by the researcher measured FPBE and Questionnaire titled Motivation to Learn Strategies in Nursing was adopted to measure the motivation to learn, respectively. Statistical Product for Service Solutions software program version 23 was use to perform analysis. Descriptive analysis was performed to analyze sociodemographic. The t-tests were performed to determine mean score differences of the levels of motivation to learn between groups. Regression analysis was performed to determine the association between variables. This study was not a clinical randomized controlled trial and thus it has not been identified in the title and no summary of trial design, methods, results, and conclusion. Results: Findings revealed that 65.8% of the study participants were males. The post-test results on Intrinsic motivation to learn indicated higher mean scores changes (p<0.01). Participants in an intervention group were 1.720 (AOR) times more likely to develop intrinsic motivation to learn than the control group (p<0.05). Moreover, FPBE was less times likely to enhance Extrinsic motivation to learn (AOR = 0.676, p>0.05) and Amotivation (AOR = 0.538, p>0.05) in learning among nurse students respectively respectively. Conclusion: FPBE had a positive effect on the intrinsic motivation to learn than conventional teaching pedagogy. Thus, FPBE has the potential to positively change the spectrum of nursing competency and quality of care. Recommendations were given based on the findings.
Surface Deformation Evolution in the Pearl River Delta Between 2006 and 2011 Estimated from the ALOS1/PALSAR
Authors: Li Genger , Feng Guangcai , Xiong Zhiqiang , Liu Qi , Xie Rongan , Zhu Xiaoling , Luo Shuran
Published: June 2020

This study monitors the land subsidence of the whole Pearl River Delta (PRD) (area: ~40,000 km2) in China using the ALOS1/PALSAR data (2006-2011) and the SBAS-InSAR method. We also analyze the relationship between the subsidence and the coastline change, river distribution, geological survey data as well as the geomorphology data. The results show that (1) the land subsidence with the average velocity of 50 mm/year occurred in the low elevation area in the front part of the delta and the coastal area; (2) the areas along rivers also suffered from surface subsidence, due to the fragile geological structure and frequent human interference; (3) the geological evolution is the intrinsic factor of the surface subsidence in the PRD, but human interference (reclamation, ground water extraction and urban construction) extend the subsiding area and accelerate the subsiding rate. This study would provide technique supports for the surface deformation and disaster warning in delta regions.
High Trophinin‑Associated Protein Expression and Its Role in Prognosis of Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Wang Ruobing , Jiao Yan , Li Yanqing , Wang Yueyuan , Li Yang , Hua Fang , Liu Yahui
Published: June 2020

Background: Trophinin‑associated protein (TROAP) was known as the tastin, which originally recognized as a cytosolic protein involved in embryo implantation. Increasing studies have revealed that high expression of TROAP is related with poor outcomes in cancers. However, there have been few studies on the correlation of TROAP and pancreatic cancer. This study aimed to explore the prognostic significance of TROAP in pancreatic cancer by mining the data collected from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) dataset. Methods: Clinical information and the RNA expression data were obtained from the TCGA dataset. The correlations between clinical information and TROAP mRNA expression were performed by chi-square and Fisher exact tests. Univariate Cox analyses were used to filter the potential prognostic factors. The correlations between TROAP expression and clinical characteristics of patients with pancreatic cancer were confirmed by multivariate Cox analyses.Results: Analysis of tumor data showed that high expression of TROAP was correlated with poor outcomes in pancreatic cancer patients. Univariate and multivariate Cox analyses demonstrated that TROAP mRNA expression played an important role in shorting overall survival (OS) and relapse-free survival (RFS), which might serve as the useful biomarker and prognostic factor for pancreatic cancer. Conclusions: TROAP was an independent risk factor for pancreatic cancer. TROAP has the potential to be a biomarker, especially in predicting prognosis.
Impact of intratumor heterogeneity on diffusion-weighted MRI as a prognostic indicator in lower rectal cancer
Authors: Kudou Michihiro , Nakanishi Masayoshi , Kuriu Yoshiaki , Arita Tomohiro , Shimizu Hiroki , Kiuchi Jun , Kosuga Toshiyuki , Konishi Hirotaka , Shiozaki Atsush , Kubota Takeshi , Fujiwara Hitoshi , Okamoto Kazuma , Goto Mariko , Yamada Kei , Otsuji Eigo
Published: June 2020

Background

Diffusion-weighed MRI (DWI) has the potential to reveal intra-tumor pathological heterogeneity consisting of the stroma. The present study investigated the value of intra-tumor heterogeneity evaluated by DWI for predicting the survival of patients with lower rectal cancer (LRC).
Methods

A total of 172 LRC patients underwent radical surgery between 2009 and 2017. Patients with T1 tumors, distant metastasis, and no pre-operative MRI were excluded. Fifty-eight cases were targeted. Intra-tumor heterogeneity on DWI was quantified by an image analysis (MRI heterogeneous score of DWI: mrHSD). All enrolled cases were divided into two groups (high and low groups) according to median mrHSD.
Results

Median mrHSD was 0.457 (0.170–0.823), with a higher score indicating a more heterogeneous pattern on DWI. The frequency of a clinical diagnosis of lymph node metastasis and extramural vascular invasion was higher in the high group. Three-year overall survival (OS) and relapse-free survival (RFS) rates were significantly higher in the low group than in the high group (OS: 100% vs 84.6%, p = 0.012; RFS: 85.9% vs 55.6%, p = 0.027). A univariate analysis of RFS showed that the RFS rates of poorly differentiated LRC, a positive circumferential resection margin on MRI, and high mrHSD were worse (p = 0.097, 0.086, and 0.049). A multivariate analysis revealed that high mrHSD tended to be an independent factor for predicting post-operative recurrence (HR: 2.836, p = 0.060).
Conclusion

The quantitative evaluation of intratumor heterogeneity on DWI has potential as an imaging biomarker for predicting post-operative recurrence.
A Feasibility Study of an Intervention for Structured Preparation Before Detoxification in Alcohol Dependence: the SPADe Trial Results
Authors: KOUIMTSIDIS Christos , Houghton Ben , Gage Heather , Notley Caitlin , Maskrey Vivienne , Clark Allan , Holland Richard , Lingford-Hughes Anne Anne , Punukollu Bhaskar Bhaskar , Touray Morro Morro , Duka Theodora
Published: June 2020

BackgroundIndividuals who are ‘moderately’ or ‘severely’ dependent consume alcohol at levels that are likely to have a severe impact on their own health and mortality, the health and behaviours of others (family members), and to have economic and social implications. Treatment guidelines suggest that treatment needs to be planned with medically assisted withdrawal (also referred to as detoxification), and aftercare support. Treatment outcomes are poor with low proportions engaging in after care and high relapse rates. An approach of structured preparation before alcohol detoxification (SPADe) put emphasis on introducing lifestyle changes, development of coping strategies for cravings, stress and emotions as well as introducing changes to the immediate family and social environment in advance of alcohol cessation. Such a pre-habilitation paradigm compliments the established treatment approach. The key research question was: can we design a large scale, randomised controlled trial (RCT) that will answer whether such an approach is more effective than usual care in helping individuals to maintain longer periods of alcohol abstinence?MethodsThis is a pragmatic, parallel, two-arm, feasibility RCT comparing the clinical and cost-effectiveness of SPADe and usual care against usual care only in maintaining alcohol abstinence in adults with alcohol dependence receiving care in two community services in London. The trial follows the guidelines of phase 2 of the Medical Research Council (MRC) for complex interventions. ResultsWe were able to recruit 48/50 participants during a period of 9 months. Retention in the trial was 75%. Treatment compliance was overall 44%. Data completion for the primary outcome was 65%, 50% and 63% at 3, 6 and 12 months respectively. The intervention group had more days abstinent in the previous 90 days at the 12 months (n=54.5) versus control (n=41.5). DiscussionThe results of this feasibility trial indicate that with the appropriate modifications, a full multi centred trial would be possible to test the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of a pre- habilitation approach such as the SPADe group intervention in addition to usual care against usual care only.Trial RegistrationName of registry: ISRCTN; Trial Registration Number: 14621127; Date of Registration: 22/02/2017; URL of trial registry record: http://www.isrctn.com/ISRCTN14621127
Marker assisted development and characterization of non-GM herbicide tolerant Near Isogenic Lines of a mega Basmati rice variety, “Pusa Basmati 1121”
Authors: Grover Nitasha , Kumar Aruna , Yadav Ashutosh Kumar , S. Gopala Krishnan , Ellur Ranjith Kumar , Bhowmick Prolay Kumar , Vinod K.K. , Bollinedi Haritha , Nagarajan M. , Viswanthan C. , Sevanthi Amitha Mithra V. , Singh Nagendra Kumar , Mohapatra Trilochan , Singh Ashok Kumar
Published: June 2020

Background
Direct-seeded rice (DSR) is a potential technology for sustainable rice farming as it saves water and labor. However, higher incidence of weed under DSR limits productivity. Therefore, there is a need to develop herbicide tolerant (HT) rice varieties.
Results
We used marker assisted backcross breeding (MABB) to transfer a mutant allele of Acetohydroxy acid synthase (AHAS) gene, which confers tolerance to imidazolinone group of herbicides from the donor parent (DP) “Robin” into the genetic background of an elite popular Basmati rice variety Pusa Basmati 1121 (PB 1121). Foreground selection was done using the AHAS gene linked Simple Sequence Repeat (SSR) marker RM6844 and background selection was performed using 112 genome-wide SSR markers polymorphic between PB 1121 and Robin. Phenotypic selection for agronomic, Basmati grain and cooking quality traits in each generation was carried out to improve the recovery of recurrent parent phenome (RPP). Finally, a set of 12 BC4F4 near isogenic lines (NILs), with recurrent parent genome (RPG) recovery ranging from 98.66 to 99.55% were developed and evaluated. PB 1121-HT NILs namely 1979-14-7-33-99-10, 1979-14-7-33-99-15 and 1979-14-7-33-99-66 were found superior to PB 1121 in yield with comparable grain and cooking quality traits and herbicide tolerance similar to Robin.
Conclusion
Overall, the present study reports successful development of non-GM HT NILs in the genetic background of popular Basmati rice variety PB 1121 by introgression of mutated AHAS allele. This is the first report of the development of HT rice in India. Superior NILs are being evaluated in the national Basmati trials, the release of which is likely to provide a viable option for the adoption of DSR technology in Basmati rice cultivation.
Forecasting the Stability of COVID-19 on Indian Dataset with Prophet Logistic Growth Model 
Authors: Phutela Nishtha , Bakshi Arushi G , Gupta Sunil , Gabrani Goldie
Published: June 2020

Recently COVID-2019, a highly infectious disease has been declared as Pandemic by WHO, and since then the researchers all over the world are making attempts to predict the likely progression of this pandemic using various mathematical models. In this paper, we are using logistic growth model to find out the stability of this pandemic and Prophet Model to forecast the total number of confirmed cases that would be caused by COVID-19 in India.
Investigating the Role of Environmental Transmission in COVID-19 Dynamics: A Mathematical Model Based Study
Authors: ELmojtaba Ibrahim M. , Al-Musalhi Fatma , Al-Ghassani Asma , Al-Salti Nasser
Published: June 2020

A mathematical model with environmental transmission has been proposed and analyzed to investigate its role in the transmission dynamics of the ongoing COVID-19 outbreak. Two expressions for the basic reproduction number R0 have been analytically derived using the next generation matrix method. The two expressions composed of a combination of two terms related to human to human and environment to human transmissions. The value of R0 has been calculated using estimated parameters corresponding to two datasets. Sensitivity analysis of the reproduction number to the corresponding model parameters has been carried out. Existence and stability analysis of disease free and endemic equilibrium points have been presented in relation with the obtained expressions of R0. Numerical simulations to demonstrate the effect of some model parameters related to environmental transmission on the disease transmission dynamics have been carried out and the results have been demonstrated graphically.
The covid-19 pandemic in Low- and Middle-Income Countries, who carries the burden? Review of mass media and publications from six countries
Authors: Chackalackal Dhia Joseph , Al-Aghbari Ahmed Asa'ad , Jang Su Yeon , Ramirez Tatiana Rivera , Vincent Jose , Joshi Anand , Banjara Megha Raj , Asaga Peter , Sanchez Rocio Cardenas , Carrillo Maria Angelica , Villa Juan Manuel , Monsalve Sonia Diaz , Kroeger Axel
Published: June 2020

Rich countries used in the Covid-19 pandemic lockdown and physical distancing policies for transmission control. However, are these measures also suitable in countries with a fragile economy resting mainly on the informal sector? The impact of lockdown measures in disadvantaged population strata in six Low- and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs) was reviewed using i) systematic review of 17 published papers and ii) review of 90 media reports. Those who most suffered from the lockdown were migrants, workers in the informal sector (which is huge), small businesses, slum dwellers, women and elderly revealing the social, cultural and economic inequalities of societies. Financial and food support for the poor was inadequate and sometimes mismanaged. In the better organized societies, the resilience was stronger (South Korea, Kerala/India) but also here the poor had to suffer most. It is strongly recommended that outbreak response strategies should particularly focus on the poor and vulnerable population.
Multilevel modelling of malaria risk in children under five years old in Nigeria
Authors: Oguoma Victor M , Anyasodor Anayochukwu E , Adeleye Adeniyi O , Eneanya Obiora A , Mbanefo Evaristus C
Published: June 2020

Background:Malaria remains a major public health threat in sub-Saharan Africa. Despite efforts to eradicate the disease in Nigeria, it is still a major cause of morbidity and mortality; especially among children under five (U5) years. This study assessed individual, household, and community risk factors for malaria in Nigerian children U5 years of age.Methods:Data from the Nigerian Malaria Health Indicator Survey 2015 were pooled for analyses. This comprised of national survey of 329 clusters. Children aged 6-59 months who were tested for malaria using microscopy were retained. Multilevel logit model accounting for sampling design was used to assess individual, household and community factors associated with malaria parasitaemia. Results:A total of 5742 children were assessed for malaria parasitaemia with overall prevalence of 27% (95% CI 26-28%). Plasmodium falciparum constituted 98% of the Plasmodium species. There was no significant difference in parasitaemia between older children, and those ≤12 months. In adjusted analyses, rural living, Northwest region, household size of >7, dependence on river and rain water as primary water source were associated with higher odds of parasitaemia; while higher wealth index, all U5s who slept under bed net and dependence on packaged water were associated with lower odds of parasitemia.Conclusion:Malaria remains a substantial public health burden in Nigeria, especially in U5 children, despite sustained investment in malaria control and prevention. A quarter of the overall national burden are in the U5s. Across the six geopolitical zones, the highest burden was in children living in poorest rural households.
Epidemiological, clinical characteristics of coronavirus-infected disease (COVID-19) among sample of Iranian community: funding from survey in central of Iran
Authors: Araban Marzieh , Karimy Mahmood , Mesri Mehdi , Armoon Bahram , Koohestani Hamid Reza , Azani Hadi
Published: June 2020

BackgroundNew Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is the main pathogens that primarily target the human respiratory organization, represents a public health emergency and global concern. The present study aimed to investigate the epidemiological, clinical characteristics of coronavirus-infected disease (COVID-19) in Saveh city, of Iran, in 2020.MethodIn this descriptive-analytical research, 1142 patients suspected of having coronavirus, participated. Data collection was performed using interviews, inserting information into the researcher-made questionnaires, and using the information in patients' medical records. Data were analyzed by SPSS 21 using Chi-square, independent sample t tests, Fisher's Exact Test, and regression analysis.Resultsmultivariate logistic regression models revealed that among clinical symptoms and patents characteristics, some variables were significant predictors of death: Intubation (OR = 8.82; 95% CI: (5.15-15.63), PO2 rate (OR = 2.48; 95% CI: (1.51-4.08), Diabetes (OR = 1.88; 95% CI: (1.00-3.54), Shortness of breath (OR = 1.70; 95% CI: (1.02-2.82). Almost half of the patients (48.3%) had a history of chronic disease, cardiovascular disease (CVD) (12.8%), diabetes (11.6%), and high blood pressure (9.7%) were the primary chronic disease among patients.ConclusionConsidering the results of the study, designing and implementing targeting and tailoring health education programs for all groups of the community and especially for susceptible people such as elderly and patients with chronic disease, are highly recommended. All in all, risk communication programs regarding COVID-19 might be a priority for responsible agencies.
The impact of China’s lockdown policy on the incidence of CoVID-19: An Interrupted time series analysis
Authors: Molefi Mooketsi , Tlhakanelo John , Phologolo Thabo , Hamda Shimeles G. , Masupe Tiny , Tsima Billy , Setlhare Vincent , Mashalla Yohana , Wiebe Douglas
Published: June 2020

BackgroundPolicy changes are often necessary to contain the detrimental impact of epidemics such as the coronavirus disease (COVID-19). China imposed strict restrictions on movement on January 23rd, 2020.Interrupted time series methods were used to study the impact of the lockdown on the incidence of COVID-19. MethodsThe number of cases of COVID-19 reported daily from January 12thto March 30th, 2020 were extracted from the World Health Organization (WHO) COVID-19 dashboard ArcGIS® and matched to China’s projected population of 1 408 526 449 for 2020 in order to estimate daily incidences. Data were plotted to reflect daily incidences as data points in the series. A deferred interruption point of 6thFebruary was used to allow a 14-day period of diffusion. The magnitude of change and linear trend analyses were evaluated using the itsafunction with ordinary least-squares regression coefficients in Stata® yielding Newey-West standard errors.ResultsSeventy-eight (78) daily incidence points were used for the analysis, with 11(14.10%) before the intervention. There was a daily increase of 163 cases (β=1.16*10-07, p=0.00) in the pre-intervention period. Although there was no statistically significant drop in the number of cases reported daily in the immediate period following 6thFebruary 2020 when compared to the counterfactual (p=0.832), there was a 241 decrease (β=-1.71*10-07, p=0.00) in cases reported daily when comparing the pre-intervention and post-intervention periods. A deceleration of 78(47%) cases reported daily. ConclusionThe lockdown policy managed to significantly decrease the incidence of CoVID-19 in China. Lockdown provides an effective means of curtailing the incidence of COVID-19.
Withanolides from Withania somnifera as an immune booster and their therapeutic option against COVID-19
Authors: Khanal Pukar , Patil B. M. , Pasha Ismail , Dey Yadu Nandan , Chand Sharad
Published: June 2020

Aim: The present study aimed to investigate the withanolides as an immune system booster and anti-viral agents against the coronavirus.Materials and Methods: Reported withanolides from Withinana somnifera were retrieved from the open-source database i.e. ChEBI, PCIDB and Dr. Duke's Phytochemical and Ethnobotanical Databases. Their protein-based targets were predicted using DigepPred and the protein-protein interaction was evaluated using STRING. Similarly, the drug-likeness score of individual compounds was predicted using MolSoft and intestinal absorptivity was predicted using the boiled-egg model. The network among the compounds, proteins, and modulated pathways was constructed using Cytoscape and the docking was performed using autodock4.0.Results: Withanoloid Q was predicted to modulate the highest number of proteins, showed positive human intestinal absorption and had the highest druglikeness score. Similarly, combined network interaction identified withanolide Q to target the highest number of proteins; RAC1 was majorly modulated and regulating Fluid shear stress and atherosclerosis as a majorly regulated pathway. Similarly, Withanolide D and Withanolide G were predicted to have the better binding affinity with PLpro, Withanolide M with 3clpro, and Withanolide M with spike protein based on binding energy and number of hydrogen bond interactions. Conclusion: Among the multiple withanolides from Withania somnifera, withanolide-D, -G, -M, and -Q were predicted as a lead hit based on druglikeness score, modulated proteins, and docking score to boost immune system and inhibit the COVID infection.
Clinical characteristics and survival analysis in critical and non-critical patients with COVID-19 in Wuhan, China: a single-center retrospective case control study
Authors: Tian Ran , Wu Wei , Wang Chunyao , Pang Haiyu , Zhang Zhiyu , Xu Haopeng , Luo Qingfeng , Gao Peng , Shi Jihua , Li Wenbin , Qian Hao , Guo Fan , Li Taisheng , Liu Zhengyin , Wang Jinglan , Zhou Xiang , Qin Yan , Yan Xiaowei , Zhang Shuyang
Published: June 2020

Since the outbreak of COVID-19 in China at the end of 2019, the world has experienced a large-scale epidemic caused by the SARS-CoV-2. Epidemiological and clinical course of COVID-19 patients have been reported, but there have been few analyses about the characteristics, predictive risk factors and outcomes of critical patients. In this single-center retrospective case-control study, 90 adult inpatients hospitalized at Tongji Hospital (Wuhan, China) were included. Demographic, clinical, laboratory test and treatment data were obtained and compared between critical and non-critical patients. We found that compared with non-critical patients, the critical patients had higher SOFA score and qSOFA scores. Critical patients had lower lymphocyte and platelet count, elevated D-dimer, decreased fibrinogen, and elevated high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) and interleukin-6(IL-6). More critical patients received treatment including antibiotics, anticoagulation, corticosteroid and oxygen therapy than non-critical ones. Multivariable regression showed higher qSOFA score and elevation of IL-6 were related to critical patients. Antibiotic usage and anticoagulation were associated with decreased in-hospital mortality. And critical grouping contributed greatly to in-hospital death. Critical COVID-19 patients have a more severe clinical cours. qSOFA score and elevation of IL-6 are risk factors for critical condition. Non-critical grouping, positive antibiotic application and anticoagulation may be beneficial for patient survival.
CT features of COVID-19 patients with two consecutive negative RT-PCR tests after treatment
Authors: Fu Zhao , Tang Ningning , Chen Yanqing , Ma Longbai , Wei Youyong , Lu Yumin , Ye Kun , Liu Hang , Tang Fen , Huang Guangyi , Yang Yingxia , Xu Fan
Published: June 2020

Purpose: The objective of this study is to expound the CT features of COVID-19 patients whose nucleic acid tests converted to negative after treatment.Materials and Methods: We retrospectively reviewed 46 COVID-19 patients with two consecutive negative RT-PCR tests after treatment. The cases were divided into moderate group and severe/critical group according to disease severity. Clinical and CT scanning data were collected. CT signs of pulmonary lesions and the score of long involvement were expounded.Results: 39 moderate cases and 7 severe/critical cases were included. All moderate patients showed peripheral lesions while severe/critical cases exhibited both central and peripheral lesions with all lobes involvement. Ground glass opacity (GGO) and mixed GGO were observed. Aberrant pulmonary interstitium manifested as reticular and thin linear pattern. Thickened blood vessels and pleural thickening were found. Pulmonary fibrosis, annular thickening of the bronchial wall, bronchiectasis, air bronchogram and small amount of bilateral pleural effusion were observed in severe/critical patients. The severe/critical group showed higher CT score of involvement.Conclusions: Pulmonary lesions persisted even after twice consecutive nucleic acid tests converted to negative. We strongly recommended regular follow-up of CT scans after nucleic acid tests conversion. Evaluation of complete remission should base on chest CT.
THE IMPORTANCE OF SOCIAL NETWORKS AS A TOOL FOR EMPLOYER BRANDING FROM THE VIEWPOINT OF SLOVAK CONSUMERS
Authors: Nadanyiova Margareta , Paurova Veronika
Published: June 2020

Social networks are a phenomenon that has become a regular part of life for the majority of consumers and they spend much of free time there. With the increasing popularity of social networks, the possibilities of their use are also expanding. Recently, the trend of social networks has also penetrated into the personnel marketing. Due to the current situation on the labour market, in addition to traditional techniques, companies have begun to use the tools of the social networks to recruit employees and build their employer brands. The aim of this article is to define the theoretical basis of social networks and their usage in employer branding from the viewpoint of domestic (Slovak) and foreign authors. This includes an analysis of the practical usage of social networks in employer branding. The secondary data for the analysis were obtained from annual companies reports, statistical tables and published professional publications. In order to determine the perception of social networks as a tool for employer branding, a questionnaire survey was conducted among Slovak people. General scientific methods were applied for the processing of the data, as well as mathematical methods to evaluate the data, collated from the results of the questionnaire survey. Based on this, benefits of social networks and their usage in employer branding are highlighted.
HOFSTEDE’S CULTURE VALUES SURVEY IN ALBANIAN PRIVATE HOSPITALS
Authors: Gjana Irma , Hysa Xhimi
Published: June 2020

The purpose of this paper is to highlight the changes that Albanian cultural dimensions’ scores have undergone over time. Hofstede’s Value Survey Module 2013 (VSM 2013) has been applied to examine the six dimensions of culture; power distance, individualism, masculinity, uncertainty avoidance, long term orientation and indulgence. The survey data (N=387) was collected in the two largest private hospitals in Albania. Globalization, technological developments, economical flourishing and crisis, war and peace, influence the shifting of national cultural dimensions’ scores toward negative or positive values [1]. In this study we aim to show the shifting of Albanian culture value scores in time, and compare the results with the ones predicted by the researchers of the field. The results obtained show a negative shift on Albanian culture dimension score of power distance, individualism, long term orientation and indulgence, and a positive shift on masculinity and uncertainty avoidance values. Implications for researchers of the field are discussed in the paper.
Count copula regression model using generalized beta distribution of the second kind
Authors: Safari-Katesari Hadi , Zaroudi Samira
Published: June 2020

Modelling claims severity for obtaining insurance premium is one of the major concerns of the insurance industry. There is a considerable amount of literature on the actuarial application of the copula model to calculate the pure premium. In this paper, we model claims severity for computing the pure premium in the collision market by means of the count copula model. Moreover, we apply a regression model using a generalized beta distribution of the second kind (GB2) to compute the premium for an average claim and the conditional computation for all coverage levels. Like many other researchers, we assume that the number of accidents is independent from the size of claims. For real data application, we use a portfolio of a major automobile insurer in Iran in 2007-2008, with a subsample of 59,547 policies available in their portfolio. We then proceed to compare the estimated premiums with the real premiums. The results demonstrate that there is strong positive dependency between the real premium and the estimated one.
On the choice of the number of Monte Carlo iterations and bootstrap replicates in Empirical Best Prediction
Authors: Chwila Adam , Żądło Tomasz
Published: June 2020

Empirical Best Predictors (EBPs) are widely used for small area estimation purposes. In the case of longitudinal surveys, this class of predictors can be used to predict any given population or subpopulation characteristic for any time period, including future periods. Generally, the value of an EBP is computed by means of Monte Carlo algorithms, while its MSE is usually estimated using the parametric bootstrap method. Model-based simulation studies of the properties of the predictors require numerous repetitions of the random generation of population data. This leads to a question about the dependence between the number of iterations in all the procedures and the stability of the results. The aim of the paper is to show this dependence and to propose methods of choosing the appropriate number of iterations in practice, using a set of real economic longitudinal data available at the United States Census Bureau website.
Statistical properties and different methods of estimation for extended weighted inverted Rayleigh distribution
Authors: Yadav Abhimanyu Singh , Singh S. K. , Singh Umesh
Published: June 2020

The aim of this paper is to introduce a new weighted probability distribution to model the non-monotone failure rate pattern for survival data. The proposed distribution is generalized by considering inverted Rayleigh distribution as a baseline distribution called an extended weighted inverted Rayleigh distribution. Different statistical properties such as moment, quantile function, moment generating function, entropy measurement, Bonferroni and Lorenz curve, stochastic ordering and order statistics have been derived. Different estimation procedures have also been discussed to estimate the unknown parameters of the proposed probability distribution. The Monte Carlo simulation study has been conducted to compare the performances of the proposed estimators obtained through various methods of estimation. Finally, two real data sets have been used to show the applicability of the proposed model in a real-life scenario.