bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The effect of control measures on COVID-19 transmission in Italy: Comparison with Guangdong province in China
Authors: Liu Peiyu , He Sha , Rong Libin , Tang Sanyi 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
Background COVID-19 is spreading in many countries around the world. Italy is the hardest hit in Europe and its number of new infections is still increasing. This study aims to evaluate the reason for the rapidly growing epidemic in Italy.Methods We compared Italy’s data of outbreak and control measures with the province of Guangdong in China. Then, a modiﬁed SEIR model was applied to estimate the basic reproduction number. Finally, we utilized a time-dependent dynamic model to study the future disease dynamics in Italy.Results The comparison of speciﬁc measures implemented in the two places and the time when the measures were initiated shows that the prevention and control actions in Italy were not sufﬁciently timely and effective. Using a modiﬁed SEIR model, we estimated parameter values based on available cumulative data and calculate the basic reproduction number to be 4.32 before the national lockdown in Italy. Numerical simulations revealed that under a scenario in which very strict interventions are taken when the minimum contact rate is 1 with the exponential decreasing rate is 0.5 and the fast diagnosis rate is 0.5 with the exponential increasing rate is 0.5 (i.e. the test result will be available in two days). In this scenario, Italy will reach the peak (i.e. 23900) after 43 days.Conclusion This study suggests that Italy is currently in a very serious epidemic status since control measures such as blockade of schools, isolation, medical supports and media coverage are not sufﬁciently timely and effective.
Validation Of Nigerian Version Of The Modified Fall Efficacy Scale Among Community-dwelling Older Adults: A Validation Study
Authors: Okoye Emmanuel Chiebuka , Akosile Christopher Olusanjo , Maruf Fatai Adesina , Onwuakagba Ifeoma Uchenna , Urama Sunday Tobias 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
Background: Fear of falling (FOF) is a very pervasive problem among older adults. Consequently, many scales have been developed for its assessment. The Modified Fall Efficacy Scale (MFES) is one of the most popular FOF scales. The MFES was originally developed for use in developed countries, and thus may not be entirely suitable for use in developing countries due to cultural and environmental differences between the two country categories. This study was therefore designed to cross-culturally adapt and validate the MFES to Igbo culture and environment among community-dwelling older adults in Nnewi community using established guidelines.Methods : The original English version of the MFES (E-MFES) was translated, synthesized, back-translated, subjected to expert panel review, and pretested before producing the final Igbo version of the MFES (I-MFES). The E-MFES, the I-MFES and the Short Falls Efficacy International were randomly administered to consecutively recruited 109 consenting older adult residents of Nnewi (43.1% males; mean age=74.45±8.78 years). Obtained data was analysed using frequency counts, percentages, mean, standard deviation, Mann-Whitney U test, Spearman rank-order test, Cronbach’s alpha and principal component analysis at 0.05 level of significance.Results : All the 14 items on the E-MFES were retained on the I-MFES. There was no significant difference between the corresponding scores on the E-MFES and the I-MFES (p<0.05). The correlations between the corresponding scores on the I-MFES and the M-FES were all excellent (rho=0.97-1.00) indicating evidence of concurrent validity of the I-MFES. The correlation between the total scores on the I-MFES and the Short Falls Efficacy International was excellent (rho=9.3) indicating evidence of convergent validity. The Cronbach’s alpha value of the I-MFES is 0.97 showing evidence of excellent internal consistency.Conclusion : The I-MFES is a valid and reliable tool, and thus can be used as an outcome measure on Igbo older adults.
The pattern of gene copy number variations (CNVs) in hepatocellular carcinoma; in silico analysis
Authors: Ansari Hossein , Shahrisa Arman , Tahmaseby Maryam , Mohammadi Zahra , Carloni Vinicio , Asl Javad Mohammadi 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
Cancer-associated death is the second leading cause of death worldwide. Study of the involved molecular networks of cancers can identify the potential target for early diagnosis, efficient therapies, and predictive prognosis of patients with cancer. Copy number variations are one type of DNA mutations which has been connected with human cancers. The CNVs can be used to find the regions of the genome involved in cancer phenotypes. This study is aimed to perform genome-wide chromosomal CNVs in HCC samples to find hotspot regions of disease using in silico analysis. The obtained data showed that gain of chromosome 1q and loss of 8p were frequently observed in target cancerous tissues. All the gains and losses were associated with tumor grade and metastasis. However, the amplification of YY1AP1 (Yin Yang-1 Associated Protein 1) and deletion of CHMP7 (Charged Multivesicular Body Protein 7) were observed in most of patients. These expression levels of YY1AP1 and CHMP7 were also upregulated and downregulated in cancerous samples respectively. Additionally, these two genes interact with critical oncogene and tumor suppressor genes like MDM2 (Mouse double minute 2 homolog) and VHL (von Hippel-Lindau tumor suppressor) showing the potential of these genes in HCC pathogenesis. Based on the observed data we suggest the 1q and 8p as candidate regions for HCC for researches especially YY1AP1 and CHMP7 loci.
Kidney ventrally rotation technique in retroperitoneal robot-assisted partial nephrectomy for posterior hilar tumor: technical feasibility and preliminary results
Authors: Yin Xiaotao , Jiang Sinan , Shao Zhiqiang , Lu Yongliang , Guo Jiangxiang , Xiao Yi , Zhu Xiaoying , Yu Hualiang , Ma Han , Yang Yu , Gao Jiangping 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
Purpose: The retroperitoneal robotic assisted partial nephrectomy (RAPN) is suitable for tumors locating on the posterior side of the kidney. However, the posterior hilar tumor poses additional surgical challenge due to the special location and poor tumor exposure. A novel kidney ventrally rotation technique to overcome this difficulty during retroperitoneal RAPN was developed, and its efficacy was assessed in a consecutive case series.Methods: From April 2017 to April 2019, a total of 24 patients with posterior renal hilar tumor underwent retroperitoneal RAPN. The kidney ventrally rotation technique was applied in all these cases, which specialized in improving the exposure of posterior hilar tumor by rotating the kidney ventrally. Perioperative data was analyzed to evaluate the efficacy of this technique.Results: The mean tumor size was 4.3 ± 1.7 cm (range 2.5-8 cm), and the median R.E.N.A.L score was 9 (range 7-12). All the 24 patients underwent RAPN successfully without converting to open surgery or radical nephrectomy. The mean operation time was 80 ± 24 min, the mean estimated blood loss was 104 ± 65 ml, and the warm ischemia time was 17.4 ± 6.6 min. No sever complications occurred, and no positive surgical margin was found in all the malignant cases. After 14 months follow-up, no recurrence or metastasis occurred in all cases.Conclusion: Kidney ventrally rotation technique is safe and feasible for improving the exposure of posterior renal hilar tumor during retroperitoneal RAPN. It could be regarded as an efficient method for the management of posterior hilar tumor.KEYWORDS: robotic surgery; partial nephrectomy; posterior hilar tumor; retroperitoneal approach; kidney rotation
Prevalence and genotype distribution of HPV infection among 214,715 women from Southern China, 2012-2018: baseline surveys prior to mass HPV vaccination
Authors: Luo Lipei , He Ping , Liu Qiaotu , Jiang Yanghua , Zhang Yang-nan , Li Qingzhao , Li Qiu , Li Shengtao , Yang Fan , Ling Hua , Dai Xingui , Li Zhongyu , Chen Hongliang 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
Background : The epidemiology on the human papillomavirus (HPV) among females in Southern China is not well-established. Baseline data on the prevalence of HPV infection in China prior to mass prophylactic HPV vaccination would be useful. Thus, this study aimed to determine the type-specific HPV prevalence and distribution among females from Southern China prior to mass HPV vaccination.Methods : A retrospective cross-sectional study employing 214,715 women attending ChenZhou NO.1 People’s Hospital for cervical screening during 2012-2018 was conducted prior to widespread HPV vaccination. HPV genotype was detected using nucleic acid molecular diversion hybridization tests. The overall prevalence, age-specific prevalence, type distribution，and annual trend was analyzed.Results : The overall HPV prevalence was 18.71% (95% confidence interval [CI], 18.55%-18.88%) among Southern China females. During 2012–2018, the prevalence of HPV infection showed a downward tendency, from 21.63% (95% CI, 21.07%-22.20%) in 2012 to 18.75% (95% CI, 18.35%-19.16%) in 2018. Age-specific HPV distribution displayed a peak at young women aged less than 21 years (33.11%, 95% CI, 31.13%-35.15%), 20.07% ( 95% CI, 19.70%-20.44% ) among women aged 21-30 years, 17.29% (95% CI, 17.01%-17.57%) among women aged 31-40 years, 17.23% (95% CI, 16.95%-17.51%) among women aged 41-50 years, 21.65% (95% CI, 21.11%-22.20%) among women aged 51-60 years, and 25.95% (95% CI, 24.86%-27.07%) among women aged over 60 years. Of the 21 subtypes identified, the most three prevalent high-risk HPV (HR-HPV) genotypes were HPV52 (5.12%; 95% CI, 21.11%-22.20%), -16 (2.96%; 95% CI, 2.89%-3.03%), and -58 (2.51%; 95% CI, 2.44%-2.58%); the predominant low-risk HPV (LR-HPV) genotypes were HPV81 (1.86%; 95%CI, 1.80%-1.92%) and -6 (0.69%; 95% CI, 0.66%-0.73%) respectively. Incidence of HR-HPV only, LR-HPV only and mixed LR- and HR-HPV were 15.17%, 2.07% and 1.47% respectively. Besides, single HPV infection accounted for 77.30% of all positive cases in this study.Conclusions: This study highlights 1) a high prevalence of HPV infection among females with a decreasing tendency towards 2012-2018, especially for young women under the age of 21 prior to mass HPV vaccination; 2) HPV52, -16 and -58 were the predominant HPV genotypes, suggesting potential use of HPV vaccine covering these HPV genotypes in Southern China.
Risk Factors for Malaria Infection Prevalence and Household Vector Density between Mass Distribution Campaigns of Long-Lasting Insecticidal Nets in Northern Tanzania
Authors: Mosha Jacklin Franklin , Lukole Eliud , Charlwood J Derek , Wright Alexandra , Bullock Olivia , Manjurano Alphaxard , Kisinza William , Mosha Franklin W , Kleinschmidt Immo , Rowland Mark , Protopopoff Natacha 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
Background Long lasting insecticide nets (LLIN) are the intervention most widely deployed in Sub-Saharan Africa to prevent malaria. Recent reports indicate selection of pyrethroid insecticide resistance is widespread in mosquito vectors. This paper explores the risk factors associated with malaria infection prevalence and vector density between mass distribution campaigns of LLIN in Northern Tanzania. Methods A cross sectional malaria survey of 3,456 children was undertaken in 2014. Vector density was assessed using indoor light traps and outdoor tent traps. Anophelines were identified to species using PCR and tested for falciparum circumsporozoite protein. Logistic regression was used to identify household and environmental factors associated with malaria infection and vector density. Results LLIN use was 27.7%. Only 16.9% of households had sufficient nets to cover all sleeping places. Malaria infection was independently associated with access to LLIN (OR: 0.57; 95%CI 0.34 – 0.98), age group, altitude and house construction quality. LLIN less than 2 years old were more protective than older LLIN (53% vs 65% prevalence of infection); however, there was no evidence that LLIN in good condition (hole index <65) were more protective than LLIN which were more holed. Independent risk factors for vector density were consistent with malaria outcomes and included altitude, wind, livestock, house quality, open eaves and LLIN access. Indoor collections comprised 4.6% Anopheles funestus and 95.4% An. gambiae of which 4.5% were An. arabiensis and 93.5% were An. gambiae s.s . Conclusion Three years after the mass distribution campaign and despite top-ups, LLIN usage had fallen considerably. While children living in households with access to LLIN were at lower risk of malaria, infection prevalence remained high even among users of LLIN in good condition. While effort should be made to maintain high coverage between campaigns, distribution of just standard pyrethroid LLIN appears insufficient to prevent malaria transmission in this area of intense pyrethroid resistance.
Residual stress variation in SiCf/SiC composite during heat treatment and its effects on mechanical behavior
Authors: Chen Xiaowu , Cheng Guofeng , Zhang Junmin , Guo Feiyu , Zhou Haijun , Liao Chunjin , Wang Hongda , Zhang Xiangyu , Dong Shaoming 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
Residual stress originated from thermal expansion mismatch determines the mechanical properties of ceramic matrix composites (CMCs). Here, continuous SiC fiber reinforced SiC matrix (SiCf/SiC) composites were fabricated by nano-infiltration and transient eutectic-phase (NITE) method, and variation of residual stress in the constituent phases was investigated using high-temperature Raman spectrometer. With temperature increasing from room temperature to 1400°C, residual stresses of the matrix and the fiber decrease from 1.29 GPa to 0.62 GPa and from 0.84 GPa to 0.55 GPa in compression respectively, while that of the interphase decreases from 0.16 GPa to 0.10 GPa in tension. The variation of residual stress shows little effect in the tensile strength of the composites, while causes a slight decrease in the tensile strain. Suppression of fiber/matrix debonding and fiber pulling-out caused by the residual stress reduction in the interphase is responsible for the decreasing tensile strain. This work can open up new alternatives for residual stress analysis in CMCs.
New Mutation Sites of KIF21A Gene in Chinese Patients with Congenital Fibrosis of the Extraocular Muscles
Authors: Xia CuiRan , Li Danjie , Shi Ruilan , Nan Lianghuan , Hao Jing , Jia Yading 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
Background Congenital fibrosis of the extraocular muscles (CFEOM) is a rare hereditary nonprogressive disorder characterized by bilateral ptosis, with severely limited ocular motility. We report a new mutation site of KIF21A gene in a Chinese family with congenital fibrosis of the extraocular muscles type 1 (CFEOM1). Methods We conducted a retrospective study of case series. Standard ocular examinations were performed on 10 persons in a CFEOM1 family. Next-generation sequencing (NGS) was performed to sequence 828 genes related to oculopathy. To detect mutations, we determined the splice sites of the KIF21A gene. Results The five patients with CFEOM1 were found in the ten people of a Chinese family on three generations. A new KIF21A pathogenic SNP mutation site KIF21A-ex20 c.2821C> T (p.Arg941Trp) was identified by compared with human genome reference genes and Sanger sequencing. Conclusions A new KIF21A pathogenic SNP mutation site KIF21A-ex20 c.2821C> T (p.Arg941Trp) may be a major disease‑causing gene for the Chinese family with CFEOM1.
Ontogeny of hepatic metabolism in mule ducks highlights different gene expression profiles between carbohydrate and lipid metabolic pathways
Authors: Massimino William , Davail Stéphane , Seccula Aurélie , Andrieux Charlotte , Bernadet Marie-Dominique , Pioche Tracy , Ricaud Karine , Gontier Karine , Morisson Mireille , Collin Anne , Panserat Stéphane , Houssier Marianne 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
Background : The production of foie gras involves different metabolic pathways in the liver of overfed ducks such as lipid synthesis and carbohydrates catabolism, but the establishment of these pathways has not yet been described with precision during embryogenesis. The early environment can have short- and long-term impacts on the physiology of many animal species and can be used to influence physiological responses that is called programming. This study proposes to describe the basal hepatic metabolism at the level of mRNA in mule duck embryos in order to reveal potential interesting programming windows in the context of foie gras production. To this end, a kinetic study was designed to determine the level of expression of selected genes involved in steatosis-related liver functions throughout embryogenesis. The livers of 20 mule duck embryos were collected every four days from the 12 th day of embryogenesis (E12) until 4 days after hatching (D4), and gene expression analysis was performed. The expression levels of 50 mRNAs were quantified for these 7 sampling points and classified into 4 major cellular pathways. Results : Interestingly, most mRNAs involved in lipid metabolism are overexpressed after hatching (FASN, SCD1, ACOX1), whereas genes implicated in carbohydrate metabolism (HK1, GAPDH, GLUT1) and development (HGF, IGF, FGFR2) are predominantly overexpressed from E12 to E20. Finally, regarding cellular stress, gene expression appears quite stable throughout development, contrasting with strong expression after hatching (CYP2E1, HSBP1, HSP90AA1). Conclusion : For the first time we described the kinetics of hepatic ontogenesis at mRNA level in mule ducks and highlighted different expression patterns depending on the cellular pathway. These results could be particularly useful in the design of embryonic programming for the production of foie gras.
Analysis of spatio-temporal climate variability of a shallow lake catchment in Tanzania
Authors: Nyembo Latifa O. , Larbi Isaac , Rwiza Mwemezi J. 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
This study analyzed the trends and spatio-temporal variability in rainfall and temperature, and the length of the rainy season (LRS) in the Lake Manyara catchment, Tanzania, covering a period between 1988 and 2018 using stations and satellite climate product. The Mann-Kendall statistical test, Sen's slope estimator, and inverse distance weighting interpolation techniques were used to detect the trends, magnitude of trends and spatial distribution of rainfall and temperature. A modified Stern's method and water balance concept were used for rainfall onset, cessation and LRS analysis, while a standardized precipitation index (SPI) was used to investigate the wetness or dryness of the area. The results showed high variability and decreasing trend (4 mm/y) in annual rainfall, and non-significant increasing trend for minimum and maximum temperature. Rainfall increased from the western to the northern part of the catchment whereas a reversal pattern was noticed for temperature. The SPI shows a signal of normal condition (about 65%) for all stations – with few years showing evidence of wetter and drier conditions. The LRS showed a decreasing trend indicating a potential negative influence on rain-dependent activities. There is a need, therefore, for adaptation measures such as improving water productivity and irrigation at the farm and catchment level.
New insights in the use of a strong cationic resin in dye adsorption
Authors: Santander Paola , Oyarce Estefanía , Sánchez Julio 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
The adsorption of methyl orange (MO) in aqueous solution was evaluated using a cationic polymer (Amberlite IRA 402) in batch experiments under different experimental variables such as amount of resin, concentration of MO, optimum interaction time and pH. The maximum adsorption capacity of the resin was 161.3 mg g−1 at pH 7.64 at 55 °C and using a contact time of 300 min, following the kinetics of the pseudo-first-order model in the adsorption process. The infinite solution volume model shows that the adsorption rate is controlled by the film diffusion process. In contrast, the chemical reaction is the decisive step of the adsorption rate when the unreacted core model is applied. A better fit to the Langmuir model was shown for equilibrium adsorption studies. From the thermodynamic study it was observed that the sorption capacity is facilitated when the temperature increases.
Bioremediation of Simulated Textile Effluent by an Efficient Bio-catalyst Purified from a Novel Pseudomonas fluorescence LiP-RL5
Authors: Rathour Ranju K. , Sharma Vaishali , Rana Nidhi , Bhatia Ravi K. , Bhatt Arvind K. 
Published: April 2020

Background:
Microbial degradation of highly stable textile dyes, using lignin peroxidase,
is an eco-friendly, less expensive and much advantageous in comparison to the
chemical method.

Objective:
Biodegradation potential of lignin peroxidase (LiP), from Pseudomonas fluorescens
LiP-RL5, was enhanced after optimization and purification so as to use it as a potential
bioresource for the treatment of textile effluent.

Methods:
LiP producing bacterial isolate was primarily screened by methylene blue assay
followed by LiP assay. The standard protocol was used for purification of lignin peroxidase
and purified LiP was finally used for degradation of textile dyes.

Results:
57 bacterial isolates were screened for lignin peroxidase activity. Isolate LiP-RL5
showed maximum activity (19.8 ±0.33 %) in terms of methylene blue reduction in comparison
to others. Biochemical and molecular characterization of LiP-RL5 showed 99 % similarity
with P. fluorescens. Lignin peroxidase activity was increased by 50 % after optimization
of cultural conditions. Maximum enhancement in the activity was achieved when peptone
was used as a nitrogen source. LiP from P. fluorescens LiP-RL5 was further purified up to 2
folds. SDS-PAGE analysis revealed a single protein band of approximately 40 kDa. Enzyme
also showed high catalytic efficiency with Km= 6.94 mM and Vmax= 78.74 μmol/ml/min. Purified
enzyme was able to decolorize the simulated textile effluent up to 45.05 ±0.28 % after
40 minutes.

Conclusion:
: High catalytic efficiency of purified LiP from P. fluorescens LiP-RL5 suggests
its utility as a potential candidate for biodegradation of toxic dyes in the industrial effluent,
which could be successfully utilized for wastewater treatment at commercial level.
Detection and Control Bacteria Cause Grain Rot Burkholderia glumae on Rice
Authors: Syahri Syahri , Somantri Renny Utami , Sasmita Priatna 
Published: April 2020

Burkholderia glumae, before mid-2018, is categorized as plant quarantine pest A2 Group 1 that its existence has been detected in Indonesia. B. glumae has been known to spread in the central production of rice in Java, Sumatra, Borneo dan Sulawesi. This review aimed to explain the strategies for B. glumae detection through its characteristics and to prevent the divergence of this bacterium in Indonesia. The previous studies reported that the bacteria could reduce yield up to 75% and caused the decrease of weight-grain or the increase of empty grain. The disease intensity is affected by environmental and physiological factors such as warm temperature at nighttime and high rainfall intensity. The optimum temperature for the development of the disease is 30–35°C. Moreover, the pathogen could survive at a temperature of 41°C. The tropical area of 32-36°C are suitable for B. glumae. Recently, the effective control of the disease in the field has not been found yet. Meanwhile, early detection of the disease is not yet determined, even though it is necessary to prevent its spread in rice cultivation in Indonesia. Detection of the disease by Agricultural Quarantine Agency as a frontline is needed to check the entry of the disease carried by the import activities of the seed. Detection in the suspected field by protection institutes through frequent surveillance in central production areas of rice should be considered as an important task.. The effective techniques to prevent B. glumae are the use of resistant varieties, the practice of seed treatments (using antibacterial, bactericide, heat treatment or plant extract), and the application of oxolinic acid to the crops.