Predicting plant disease epidemics using boosted regression trees

Plant epidemics are often associated with weather-related variables.It is difficult to identify weather-related predictors for models predicting plant epidemics.In the article by Shah et al.,to predict Fusarium head blight(FHB)epidemics of wheat,they explored a functional approach using scalar-on-function regression to model a binary outcome(FHB epidemic or non-epidemic)with respect to weather time series spanning 140 days relative to anthesis.The scalar-on-function models fit the data better than previously described logistic regression models.In this work,given the same dataset and models,we attempt to reproduce the article by Shah et al.using a different approach,boosted regression trees.After fitting,the classification accuracy and model statistics are surprisingly good.

Asymptotic Analysis of a Stochastic Model of Mosquito-Borne Disease with the Use of Insecticides and Bet Nets

Ross’ epidemic model describing the transmission of malaria uses two classes of infection, one for humans and one for mosquitoes. This paper presents a stochastic extension of a deterministic vector-borne epidemic model based only on the class of human infectious. The consistency of the model is established by proving that the stochastic delay differential equation describing the model has a unique positive global solution. The extinction of the disease is studied through the analysis of the stability of the disease-free equilibrium state and the persistence of the model. Finally, we introduce some numerical simulations to illustrate the obtained results.

Construction of Risk Assessment Application Model of Epidemic Disease in Large-scale Pig Farms

The application model of epidemic disease assessment technology for Web-based large-scale pig farm was expounded from the identification of epidemic disease risk factors, construction of risk assessment model and development of risk assessment system. The assessed pig farm uploaded the epidemic disease risk data information through on-line answering evaluating questionnaire to get the immediate evaluation report. The model could enhance the risk communication between pig farm veterinarian, manager and veterinary experts to help farm system understand and find disease risk factors, assess and report the potential high risk items of the pig farm in the three systems of engineering epidemic disease prevention technology, biological safety and immune monitoring, and promote the improvement and perfection of epidemic disease prevention and control measures.

Analysis on the Changes of Research Hotspots in the Prevention and Treatment of COVID-19 by Traditional Chinese Medicine Based on Knowledge Graph

Objective: To grasp the changing trend of research hotspots of traditional Chinese medicine in the prevention and treatment of COVID-19, and to better play the role of traditional Chinese medicine in the prevention and treatment of COVID-19 and other diseases. Methods: The research literature from 2020 to 2022 was searched in the CNKI database, and CiteSpace software was used for visual analysis. Results: The papers on the prevention and treatment of COVID-19 by traditional Chinese medicine changed from cases, overviews, reports, and efficacy studies to more in-depth mechanism research, theoretical exploration, and social impact analysis, and finally formed a theory-clinical-society Influence-institutional change and other multi-dimensional achievement systems. Conclusion: Analyzing the changing trends of TCM hotspots in the prevention and treatment of COVID-19 can fully understand the important value of TCM, take the coordination of TCM and Western medicine as an important means to deal with public health security incidents, and promote the exploration of the potential efficacy of TCM, so as to enhance the role of TCM in Applications in social stability, emergency security, clinical practice, etc.

Studies on pathogen of explosive epidemic disease of shrimp Ⅱ. Purification of pathogen

The pathogen of explosive epidemio disease of farmed Chinese shrimp (Penaeus chinensis ) was isolated and purified from the cephalothorax and hepatopancreas of diseased shrimps by means of different speeds of centrifugation and sucrose gradient ultracentrifugation. The results showed that same virus isolated from the diseased shrimps in various regions of China was a kind of baculovirus covered with envelope, which was 95 ~ 125 nm in diameter and 360 ~410 nm in length. The size of the capsid was 80 ~ 90 nm × 330 ~ 350 nm. The nucleic acid of the virus was demonstrated as DNA. The result of artificial infection demonstrated that the virus was the pathogen of explosive epidemic disease of farmed Chinese shrimp.

Advances in Application of Biosensing Technology in Detection of Animal Epidemic Diseases

The development of rapid and sensitive detection technologies for animal epidemic diseases is very important to early diagnosis and disease control. Biosensing technology is a novel biological detection technology developed in recent years and has been listed as one of the five medical inspection technologies in the 21＂ century, which is considered as a rapid and effective technology for detection and diagnosis of animal epidemic diseases. In this paper, the latest research progresses on the application of biosensing technology in detection of bacterial infectious diseases, viral infectious diseases and parasitic diseases were summarized.

Response to Epidemic Disease in Ancient China and its Characteristics

This article introduces the history of epidemic diseases in China and analyzes its characteristics.It aims to explore the relationships between human beings and nature,nation and society,which enlightened us to understand and recognize the influence factors and historical logic behind the history.

Epidemic Diseases and Chinese Medicine: Example of SARS and COVID-19: Part Two

Along with the legends about epidemic demons,China has developed over the centuries a medical approach to epidemic diseases based on the teachings of Hucng Di Nei Jing(《黄帝内经》Huangdi s Intermnal Classic),Nan Jing(《难经》Classic of Difficult Issues),and Shang Han Lun(《伤寒论》Treatise on Cold Damage).Other doctors and scientists participated in this evolution of knowledge,like Wang Shuhe(王叔和),Ge Hong(葛洪),Chao Yuanfang(巢元方),Sun Simiao(孙思邈),and Liu Wansu(刘完素).However,it was in the 17^th century,after the great break of the Song,Jin,and Yuan eras that an innovative spirit,Wu Youke(吴又可1582-1652)first foresaw the existence of microorganisms as we know them now.His Wen Yi Lun(《瘟疫论》Treatise on Pestilence)foreshadows an original approach to epidemic diseases,particularly emerging infectious diseases of the 21^st century.After them,traditional Chinese medicine developed a comprehensive method of diagnosing and treating of these diseases(Epidemic Diseases Theory瘟疫学说)within the School ofHeat Diseases(温病学派).In a third article,we will examine some applications in the treatment of the SARS 2003-2004 epidemic(非典型肺炎)and the current COVID-19(新型冠状病毒肺炎)pandemic.

Epidemic Diseases and Chinese Medicine:Example of SARS and COVID‑19:Part Two

Along with the legends about epidemic demons,China has developed over the centuries a medical approach to epidemic diseases based on the teachings of Huang Di Nei Jing(《黄帝内经》Huangdi’s Internal Classic),Nan Jing(《难经》Classic of Difficult Issues),and Shang Han Lun(《伤寒论》Treatise on Cold Damage).Other doctors and scientists participated in this evolution of knowledge,like Wang Shuhe(王叔和),Ge Hong(葛洪),Chao Yuanfang(巢元方),Sun Simiao(孙思邈),and Liu Wansu(刘完素).However,it was in the 17th century,after the great break of the Song,Jin,and Yuan eras that an innovative spirit,Wu Youke(吴又可1582–1652)first foresaw the existence of microorganisms as we know them now.His Wen Yi Lun(《瘟疫论》Treatise on Pestilence)foreshadows an original approach to epidemic diseases,particularly emerging infectious diseases of the 21st century.After them,traditional Chinese medicine developed a comprehensive method of diagnosing and treating of these diseases(Epidemic Diseases Theory瘟疫学说)within the School of Heat Diseases(温病学派).In a third article,we will examine some applications in the treatment of the SARS 2003–2004 epidemic(非典型肺炎)and the current COVID-19(新型冠状病毒肺炎)pandemic.

The application of the “Treatment in Accordance with Three Categories of Etiologic Factors” theory in the prevention and treatment of epidemic diseases in traditional Chinese medicine since the Ming and Qing Dynasties

“Treatment in accordance with three categories of etiologic factors”(consideration of the climatic and seasonal conditions,environment and individual’s constitution in the treatment of diseases),that is,treatment following time,place and individual,is one of the basic principles followed by Chinese medicine in the clinical treatment of diseases.This paper analyzes the similarities and differences in traditional Chinese medicine treatment of patients with epidemic diseases in different regions and periods since the Ming(1368-1644 C.E.)and Qing(1636-1912 C.E.)Dynasties.In addition,the theory of epidemic disease prevention and control based on the application of“treatment in accordance with three categories of etiologic factors”was discussed to inspire and guide the prevention and treatment of COVID-19.

A Review on Application and Development of General Prescriptions for Treating Epidemic Diseases in Traditional Chinese Medicine

In thousands of years'struggling against epidemic diseases,traditional Chinese medicine(TCM),with its unique and advantageous theories and methods,has protected prosperity of the Chinese nation,composing a brilliant chapter.There are many famous prescriptions and medicines for prevention and treatment of epidemic diseases in TCM.In view of characteristics of epidemic diseases,application of general prescriptions in fighting against epidemic diseases has its unique effects and advantages.Through combing and studying the application of TCM general prescriptions for treating epidemic diseases in different historical periods,summarizing experience and reflecting on lessons,this paper tries to define the concept of TCM general prescriptions for treating epidemic diseases,explore elements of their efficacy guarantee,analyze their advantages and limitations,as well as reveal their enlightenment significance and application prospects,or provide ideas and reference for clinical application.

Impact of H1N1, H7N9, ASFV, dengue virus and COVID-19 on pharmaceutical manufacturing firms' R&D investments and economic consequences: Evidence from China

Objective:To determine the impact of major disease epidemics on pharmaceutical manufacturing firms'Research&Development(R&D)investments and economic consequences.Methods:The sample consists of 1582 firm-year observations from 2009 to 2022 in China,of which,26.6%of pharmaceutical companies are involved in the diagnosis and treatment of prevalent diseases.Linear models using R&D investments,patent applications,operating performances and stock returns as dependent variables are constructed separately to examine the response of pharmaceutical companies to disease epidemics and the resulting economic consequences.Results:The prevalence of five major diseases led to a 17.5%increase in the amount of R&D investment and an 87.8%rise in the ratio of R&D investment to total assets by disease-related pharmaceutical companies,compared to unrelated pharmaceutical companies.Further evidence indicated that the patent applications for disease-related firms increased by 44.3%relative to unrelated firms after the epidemics.Though the impacts of the epidemics on firms’operating performances were insignificant in the short term,a major disease epidemic was associated with an increase in stock returns of 67.4%and 44.6%,respectively,as measured by the capital asset pricing model and Fama-French five-factor model.Additional analysis revealed that the impacts of the epidemics on R&D investments and patent applications were more pronounced for non-state-owned enterprises than state-owned enterprises.Conclusions:This study demonstrates that disease-related pharmaceutical firms respond to the disease epidemics through increasing R&D investment.More patent applications and higher market value are the main gains from the firms’increased investments in R&D following the epidemic,rather than the improvements of short-term operating performances.

传染病流行期间定点收治医院医疗废弃物的“闭环式”管理

介绍传染病流行期间定点收治医院医疗废弃物的“闭环式”收、储、运模式,以及气化式回转窑无害化处理的工艺特点,为其他医院的医疗废弃物处理提供参考。

Review of possible psychological impacts of COVID-19 on frontline medical staff and reduction strategies

Like soldiers,frontline medical staff provide a first line of defense and have played a critical role in responses to the outbreak of coronavirus disease-2019 in December 2019.It is important to acknowledge the considerable pressure placed on frontline medical staff in the face of a new type of coronavirus that is highly infectious and for which no specific treatment is available.Here,we review the various kinds of psychological problems afflicting frontline medical staff who are combatting the severe acute respiratory syndrome epidemic.These include anxiety,insomnia,depression,interpersonal difficulties,and post-traumatic stress disorder syndrome.We further present a summary of countermeasures for alleviating these problems based on our findings.These countermeasures include ensuring the provision of adequate protective gear for frontline medical staff,developing timely and clear guidelines,strengthening social support,and providing clear criteria and additional training,focusing on the choice of frontline medical staff.An understanding of the psychological impacts of an epidemic situation and of relevant countermeasures will contribute to reducing the psychological pressures on frontline medical staff.Consequently,they will be able to cope better with outbreaks of infectious diseases in the future,to reduce the psychological pressure of the front-line medical staff,and to improve the treatment level.

Decoding an Old 1907 Prescription of Dr.Ing Hay(“Doc Hay”):One of the Earliest Chinese Medicine Doctors in the United States

Objectives:Chinese medicine doctors have practiced in the United States since April of 1854,the world's first Chinese medicine doctor's memorial is Kam Wah Chung Museum in John Day,Oregon,U.S.,to commemorate Dr.Ing Hay(“Doc Hay”伍于念)and his business partner Lung On(梁光荣).There were few studies to explore Doc Hay's real practice and prescription,while most of papers focused on Doc Hay's legend life.This paper aims to analyze and interpret one of the intriguing herbal prescriptions that Doc Hay had hand-written.Materials and Methods:Dr.Arthur Yin Fan made an academic travel to Kam Wah Chung museum on August 5,2018 and examined the books and hand-written prescriptions of Doc Hay,which were not exhibited to the public at that time.This paper analyzes and interprets one of herbal prescriptions that Doc Hay had hand-written in 1907.Interpretation process included four steps:(1):Transform Doc Hay's hand-written prescription(with original herb names)to standard herb names in Chinese.(2):Induct and rearrange the herb name into groups based on herb property characteristics and then translate them into both PinYin names and English names.Analyzation of the prescription may include in what classic formula(s)routinely introduced in Chinese medicine textbooks.(3):Analyze the herbal action for each group and potential symptoms or conditions the patient may have had.An analysis of classic formula(s)used in the prescription may represent what clinical condition was being treated at that time.(4):Combine the analysis to give a comprehensive picture of the patient.Results:The prescription consists of 67 herbs,total 934.6 grams,and including Yin Qiao Powder(银翘散),Sang Ju Decoction(桑菊饮),Zhi Sou Powder(止嗽散),Qing Ying Decoction(清营汤),Xi Jiao Di Huang Decoction(犀角地黄汤),Long Dan Xie Gan Decoction(龙胆泻肝汤)and Chai Hu Shu Gan Powder(柴胡疏肝散).Speculation indicated that the prescription was for a patient who had obvious pulmonary infection accompanied by severe cough,and probably had prolonged pulmonary tuberculosis(TB)also with acute respiratory infection caused by other bacteria or viruses.Based on the analysis of composition of this prescription,it can be used for the treatment of epidemic diseases.Conclusion:The majority of herbs used in this prescription are commonly included in the herbal medicines in China used to effectively counter severe acute respiratory syndrome(SARS),H1N1 and currently COVID-19,it might be Doc Hay's basic formula for patients with“Spanish Flu”during the 1918-1920 pandemic.

Virtual orthopedic assessment:Main principles and specific regions

Telemedicine was originally created as a way to treat patients who were located in remote places far away from local health facilities or in areas with shortages of medical professionals.Telemedicine is still used today to address those problems,and is increasingly becoming a tool for convenient medical care.With the emergence of pandemics,telemedicine became almost a mandatory and valuable option for continuing to provide medical care in various specialties.As the threat of pandemic progress has continued for months and may continue for years,it is essential to validate existing tools to maintain clinical assessment and patient treatment to avoid negative consequences of the lack of medical follow-up.Therefore,the establishment of a virtual assessment technique that can be conducted effectively is of outmost importance as a way of adapting to the current situation.This study evaluated the role of telemedicine in the assessment of various orthopedic pathologies by means of a systematic virtual evaluation.

Adenocarcinoma of the Esophagogastric Junction:a New Topic for the Tumor Registry

Linzhou, Yangcheng, Shexian and Yangzhong counties are considered to be high-risk areas for esophageal carcinoma using traditional standards. However, based on the incidence of malignant tumors and death statistics from 1998-2002 in Chinese cities and counties, the incidence of esophageal carcinoma in these counties was not the most prominent. In these areas, the incidence of gastric cancer ranked first. So what are the differences between the above-mentioned areas and Changle in Fujina and Linqu in Shandong Province？ The authors have combined the defined norms for cardiac cancer, published by the WHO in 2000, with the epidemiological changes in high-risk areas of esophageal carcinoma. We propose to discuss the importance of cardiac cancer morbidity and death registration in tumor monitoring sites all over China, and to provide new views related to this topic of interest.

Association between population migration and epidemic control of coronavirus disease 2019

Dear Editor,In January 2020,a widespread outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19)occurred after the beginning of the largest annual migration in China,which is known as the Spring Festival migration.Starting in January 20,2020,the Chinese government took a series of unprecedented measures to contain the spread of COVID-19.Because of the role of Wuhan as a central transportation hub.

Genomic analysis,trajectory tracking,and field surveys reveal sources and long-distance dispersal routes of wheat stripe rust pathogen in China

Identifying sources of phytopathogen inoculum and determining their contributions to disease outbreaks are essential for predicting disease development and establishing control strategies.Puccinia striiformis f.sp.tritici(Pst),the causal agent of wheat stripe rust,is an airborne fungal pathogen with rapid virulence variation that threatens wheat production through its long-distance migration.Because of wide variation in geographic features,climatic conditions,and wheat production systems,Pst sources and related dispersal routes in China are largely unclear.In the present study,we performed genomic analyses of 154 Pst isolates from all major wheat-growing regions in China to determine Pst population structure and diversity.Through trajectory tracking,historical migration studies,genetic introgression analyses,and field surveys,we investigated Pst sources and their contributions to wheat stripe rust epidemics.We identified Longnan,the Himalayan region,and the Guizhou Plateau,which contain the highest population genetic diversities,as the Pst sources in China.Pst from Longnan disseminates mainly to eastern Liupan Mountain,the Sichuan Basin,and eastern Qinghai;that from the Himalayan region spreads mainly to the Sichuan Basin and eastern Qinghai;and that from the Guizhou Plateau migrates mainly to the Sichuan Basin and the Central Plain.These findings improve our current understanding of wheat stripe rust epidemics in China and emphasize the need for managing stripe rust on a national scale.

Pigsties near dwellings as a potential risk factor for the prevalence of Japanese encephalitis virus in adult in Shanxi,China

Background:The increasing trend of adult cases of Japanese encephalitis(JE)in China,particularly in northern China,has become an important public health issue.We conducted an epidemiological investigation in the south of Shanxi Province to examine the relationships between mosquitoes,Japanese encephalitis virus(JEV),and adult JE cases.Methods:Mosquito specimens were collected from the courtyards of farmers’households and pig farms in Shanxi Province.Mosquitoes were pooled,homogenized,and centrifuged.Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction(RT-PCR)was used to detect mosquito-borne arbovirus genes in homogenates.Specimens positive for these genes were inoculated into the baby hamster kidney cell line(BHK-21)to isolate virus.Minimum infection rate was calculated and phylogenetic analyses were performed.Results:A total of 7943 mosquitoes belonging to six species in four genera were collected;Culex tritaeniorhynchus accounted for 73.08%(5805/7943),C.pipiens pallens for 24.75%(1966/7943),and the remaining 3%(104/7943)consisted of Anopheles sinensis,Aedes vexans,Ae.dorsalis,and Armigeres subalbatus.Sixteen pools were positive for JEV based on RT-PCR using JEV pre-membrane gene nested primers.Phylogenetic analyses showed that all JEVs belonged to genotype I;two pools were positive using Getah Virus(GETV)gene primers.In addition,one JEV strain(SXYC1523)was isolated from C.pipiens pallens specimens.These results indicate that the minimum infection rate of JEV in mosquito specimens collected from the courtyards of farmers’households with pigsties was 7.39/1000;the rate for pig farms was 2.68/1000;and the rate for farmers’courtyards without pigsties was zero.Conclusions:The high-prevalence regions of adult JE investigated in this study are still the natural epidemic focus of JEV.Having pigsties near dwellings is a potential risk factor contributing to the prevalence of adult JE.To prevent the occurrence of local adult JE cases,a recommendation was raised that,besides continuing to implement the Expanded Program on Immunization for children,the government should urge local farmers to cease raising pigs in their own courtyards to reduce the probability of infection with JEV.