bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
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

Abstract
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

Abstract
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

Abstract
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

Abstract
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

Abstract
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

Abstract
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.
Count copula regression model using generalized beta distribution of the second kind
Authors: Safari-Katesari Hadi , Zaroudi Samira 
Published: June 2020

Abstract
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

Abstract
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

Abstract
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.
High Performance Thin Layer Chromatography (HPTLC) for the Investigation of Medicinal Plants
Authors: Gökbulut Alper 
Published: June 2020

Background:
Chromatographic techniques, such as TLC basically and HPLC, GC,
HPTLC, equipped with various detectors are most frequently used for the qualitative and quantitative
examination of herbals.

Method:
An overview of the recent literature concerning the usage of HPTLC for the analysis of
medicinal plants has been carried out.

Results:
During the last decade/s, HPTLC, a modern, sophisticated, and automatized TLC technique
with better and advanced separation efficiency, detection limit, data acquisition, and processing, has
been used for the analysis of herbal materials and preparations since the rapid development of technology
in chromatography world. HPTLC with various detectors is a powerful analytical tool, especially
for the phytochemical applications, such as herbal drug quantification and fingerprint analysis.

Conclusion:
In this review, a latest perspective has been established and some of the previous studies
were summarized for the usage of HPTLC in the analysis of herbal remedies, dietary supplements,
and nutraceuticals.
High Parasitic Contamination of Soil Samples in the North of Iran: A Potential Risk of Parasitic Infection for Tourists
Authors: Haghparast-kenari Beheshteh , Nayeri Tooran , Sarvi Shahabeddin , Rahimi Mohammad Taghi , Ahmadpour Ehsan , Sharif Mehdi , Daryani Ahmad 
Published: June 2020

Background:
Soil-transmitted parasites (STPs) are significant intestinal parasites that infect
humans and animals and impose considerable burdens on human society and animal husbandry
industries. Therefore, the present study aimed to determine the prevalence of parasitic elements
of soil samples collected from the north of Iran.

Methods:
A total of 256 soil samples were collected from public parks, public places, vegetable
gardens, sand heaps, and shadow areas near houses in the north of Iran and examined using the sucrose
flotation method.

Results:
Out of 256 examined samples, 131 (51.2%) showed parasitic contamination, including larvae
(43%), oocysts (14.1%), and different eggs (6.6%). According to the results, the most and least
common parasites observed in the samples were larvae (43%), as well as Toxascaris leonina, and
Trichuris trichiura (0.4%), respectively. Moreover, the most and least contaminated locations were
sand heaps (62.5%) and shadow areas near houses (45.6%), respectively. Regarding cities,
Behshahr (68.3%) and Sari (67.5%) had the highest contaminated soil samples, whereas Chalus
(37.5%) showed the lowest contamination. On the other hand, rural samples showed more contamination
compared to urban areas (P< 0.05).

Conclusion:
The findings of the present study indicate that the overall prevalence of STPs in examined
areas and highly contaminated soil samples can be considered as a potential source of human
contamination particularly tourists with STPs.
Analisis kesiapan mahasiswa jurusan pendidikan fisika menggunakan e-learning dalam situasi pandemi Covid-19
Authors: Setiaji Bayu , Dinata Pri Ariadi Cahya 
Published: June 2020

Efektivitas dari penerapan e-learning di perguruan tinggi pada situasi pandemi Covid 19 dipengaruhi beberapa faktor. Faktor yang paling penting adalah kesiapan mahasiswa menggunakan ­e-learning dalam proses perkuliahan. Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui tingkat kesiapan mahasiswa pendidikan fisika dalam menggunakan e-learning. Dengan mengetahui tingkat kesiapan mahasiswa, dosen dan pemangku kebijakan dapat mempersiapkan kebijakan pengembangan lebih lanjut. Metode yang digunakan adalah survei. Kesiapan mahasiswa menggunakan e-learning diukur dengan menggunakan angket kesiapan mahasiswa. Angket kesiapan mahasiswa yang dikembangkan berdasarkan pada instrumen model Aydin dan Tasci. Angket kesiapan mahasiswa ini memiliki 25 pernyataan dengan 4 indikator. 75 mahasiswa pendidikan fisika dilibatkan dalam penelitian ini. Hasil pengisian angket dianalisis dengan menggunakan metode suksesif interval kemudian dikategorikan ke dalam skala penilaian kesiapan e-learning. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa mahasiswa Jurusan Pendidikan Fisika UNY termasuk dalam kategori siap pada 3 indikator dan tidak siap pada 1 indikator. Hal ini dapat dijadikan evaluasi bagi para dosen dan pemangku kebijakan agar kesiapan mahasiswa dapat lebih ditingkatkan. Analysis of e-learning readiness on physics education students during Covid-19 pandemic AbstractThe effectiveness of e-learning implementation in University during Covid-19 Pandemic is depending on several factors. The most important factor is the readiness of students using e-learning in the studying process. The aim of this research is to know physics education student’s readiness in using e-learning. By knowing student’s e-learning readiness, lecturer and stakeholders would be able to prepare further development of e-learning. The method in this research is survey method. Student’s e-learning readiness is measured by using student’s e-learning readiness questionnaire. This questionnaire is developed based on Aydin and Tasci Model. This questionnaire has 25 statements and 4 indicators. 75 students involved in this research. The results are analyzed using successive interval method then categoryzed using e-learning readiness scale. The results show that Physics Education Students of UNY are ready in 3 indicators and not ready in only 1 indicator. This result could be an evaluation for lecturers and stakeholders to increase student’s e-learning readiness.
An Analysis of Artistic Diversity in Hybrid Art Practice among Malaysian Artists
Authors: Anak Michael Valerie , Abd Rahman Khairul Aidil Azlin , Abdul Shukor Shureen Faris , Mohd Ali Noor Azizi 
Published: June 2020

This research objective is to analyze the artistic diversity in hybrid art practice among selected Malaysian artists. The paper examines the process of making hybrid artworks where focusing on media diversity and experiment activity. The researchers had used cluster sampling and twenty artists involved to answer the questionnaires. The researchers used bar graph and Principal Component Analysis to analyze the artistic diversity in Hybrid Art. The finding of media diversity shows that Malaysian artists are focusing on mixed media, strength and equipment. Besides, the artists are focusing on subject matter, experiment, influence and research for the finding of experiment activity.
Keywords: Collaboration, experiment activity, media diversity, hybrid approach.
eISSN: 2398-4287 © 2020. The Authors. Published for AMER ABRA cE-Bs by e-International Publishing House, Ltd., UK. This is an open access article under the CC BYNC-ND license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/). Peer–review under responsibility of AMER (Association of Malaysian Environment-Behaviour Researchers), ABRA (Association of Behavioural Researchers on Asians) and cE-Bs (Centre for Environment-Behaviour Studies), Faculty of Architecture, Planning & Surveying, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Malaysia. DOI: https://doi.org/10.21834/ebpj.v5iSI1.2307
Efek integrated nutrition programme terhadap profil lipid dan komposisi tubuh pada remaja obes
Authors: Ardiaria Martha , Kustanti Erin Ratna , Sulistiani Ria Purnawian , Noer Etika Ratna 
Published: June 2020

The effect of integrated nutrition programme on lipid profile and body composition among adolescent obesityBackground: Obesity is a serious public health issue increasingly in the adolescent. Obesity in adolescence will continue into adulthood and lead to later health problems. The adolescent has high food dense calories which high fat and low in fiber that can trigger obesity. Integrated Nutrition Programme (INP) is an intervention model for obesity with an emphasis on a low-calorie diet, low fat, high fiber, moderate physical activity, and nutrition counseling.Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the effect of INP on lipid profile and body composition in obese adolescents.Methods: Quasi-experimental study pre-post trial design with a total of subjects 18 obese adolescents. Duration of intervention in subjects for four weeks with a hypocaloric diet, low fat, high fiber, and prepared by a dietician. Moderate exercise and dietary counseling were conducted on the subject regularly. Bodyweight (BW) and waist circumference (WC) were monitored once a week. Food record intake is done before and during the intervention.Results: The mean weight loss of 1.55 kg. There is a difference in mean BW, WC, and BMI (p<0.01), whereas there were no significant differences in lipid profiles and body composition between before and after the intervention.Conclusions: INP can significantly affect weight loss, BMI, and WC as well as a significant increase in physical activity.