bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modeling Fluid Flow in Tight Unconventional Reservoirs: Nano Scale Mobility/Trapability Mechanistic Approach!
Authors: Belhaj Hadi , Qaddoura Rabab , Ghosh Bisweswar , Saqer Rana
Published: October 2019

Fluid flow through UCRs (Unoconventional Reservoirs) is governed by several mechanisms such as viscous, convection (comprises of diffusion and advection), sorption (comprises of absorption and adsorption), capillary and inertial forces taking places in two different domains - inorganic (rock) domain and organic (kerogen) domain. These mechanisms act in two main pore scale levels, Micro- and Nano-pores, in addition to the Macro scale level considered to host the flow within fractures and fissures whenever encountered (naturally existing or induced). This research aims at building a comprehensive model, based on thorough understanding of these fluid flow complexities of UCRs. The developed modeling technique assumed to predict fluid flow by coupling the effect of both displacement and trapability forces and relating these forces within the three pore scale levels (Macro, Micro and Nano). A fundamental model for the above mentioned mechanisms has been established. Sensitivity study to determine the contributions of these specific mechanisms along with a criterion to develop tight UCRs is presented.

A new and unique flow behavioral model to enable predicting flow characteristics through tight UCRs within nanopores has been established. This model will be used in estimating realistic hydrocarbon-in-place, reserves, and profiling production performance using different potential methods. This research has the following specific outcomes: (1) Comprehensive workflow and methods of UCR characterization. (2) A model to predict the fluid flow behavior through UCRs. (3) A criterion to predict the effects of different flow parameters (displacement & trapability) on fluid flow behavior in UCRs. (4) A new field-development scheme suitable for tight UCRs.
Oriented Perforation using Tubing Conveyed Perforating TCP Gun with Dynamic Underbalance DUB as Sand Control Method in Low Angle Wells, Offshore Sarawak, Malaysia.
Authors: A Rahman Adib Mahfuz , Bakar Hasmizah , Daly Kerry Gordon , Naharindra Adhi , Kumar Suman , Baharuddin Nurbaiti , Ibrahim Ahmed Abdelatty
Published: October 2019

The use of oriented perforation as a means of sand control technique has been adopted by many operators in industry. Two low angle wells completed in D field offshore Sarawak, Malaysia with moderate to weak rock strength quality required this method not only to limit the sand production but also to sustain the minimum production of 2500bopd each. Based on onset sand production analysis, reservoir M is predicted to have sand production in the direction of a maximum stress of 135degrees from true north. The wells then are suggested to be shot 0-180degree parallel to maximum stress and it saved the expense of no installation of downhole sand exclusion. This paper outlines the perforation analysis conducted to design the optimum perforation using Tubing Conveyed Perforating (TCP) Gun with Dynamic Underbalance (DUB) that effectively clean the newly created perforations. The operational approach applied to overcome the challenge of achieving desired orientation in almost vertical deviation wells by positioning electronic gyroscope siting on Universal Bottom Hole Orientation (UBHO) sub is also discussed in this paper. The available centralization solutions in market are limited to 30° degrees well inclination with 5°accuracies at three times more cost than conventional TCP. The proposal of oriented perforation at both slanted wells significantly saved lot of project economic and proved as effective sand control method, so far the production target is achieved and maintained with no record of sand production at field.

Two newly drilled and completed wells located in offshore Sarawak, Malaysia required oriented perforation with dynamic underbalance using Tubing Conveyed Perforating (TCP) guns. The reservoir quality was weak to moderate rock strength with expected sand production in the direction of a maximum stress (135 degrees from true north) within the nearly vertical wellbore. To limit the sand production, the requirement was to shoot 0-180 degree guns parallel to maximum stress, to save the expense of any sand exclusion method. Another requirement was to use Dynamic Underbalance (DUB) to properly clean perforations, reduce skin, and maximize production. The objective was to achieve a minimum production of 2500 BPD.

From Geo-mechanic study, in deviated well, the orientation of perforation is aligned with the trend of maximum horizontal stress. Based on breakout analysis, Shmax direction is 135° from the North. The expected production rate can be achieved with Oriented Perforation even at 0 deg phasing and PI reduced from 55 STB/day/psi to 38 STB/day/psi based on Figure 1 below. The studies conducted on Field D available data concluded that sanding risk is very low with Cased & Oriented Perforation strategy.
The association between symptoms of depression during pregnancy and low birth weight:a prospective study
Authors: Li Xiu xiu , Gao Rui , Dai Xiaowei , Liu Hong , Zhang Jinxin , Liu Xuemei , Si Dongmei , Deng Te , Xia Wei
Published: October 2019

Abstract
Objectives
Most studies have showed that maternal depression is associated with pregnancy complications. However, there were limited evidences in Chinese population. We examined the associations of the antenatal depression symptoms with pregnancy outcomes, especially for low birth weight.
Methods
A total of 1377 singleton pregnant women were recruited from Nanshan Maternity & Child Healthcare Hospital of Shenzhen in this prospective cohort study. Depression symptoms were assessed by the Edinburgh postnatal depression scale (EPDS) questionnaire in the second trimester of gestation; cut-points for the indication of antenatal depression were ≥12 scores in this study. Sociodemographic data, life-style and pregnancy outcomes were collected through Shenzhen Maternity & Child Healthcare database. The risks of adverse outcomes in patients with depression were determined by multivariate logistic regression and represented as odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs).
Results
Of the 1377 subjects, the prevalence of antenatal depression was 19.1%. The EPDS scores were 13.8±2.0 and 6.5±2.9 ( P <0.001) in subjects with and without antenatal depression, respectively. After adjustment for maternal age, education, parity, pre-pregnancy body mass index (BMI), residential area, fetal gender, an EPDS score≥12 (versus. <12) was associated with an increased risk for low birth weight (odds ratio: 2.05, 95% CI: 1.12-4.64), but not for preterm birth, large for gestational age, small for gestational age and macrosomia.
Conclusion Pregnant women presenting antenatal depressive symptoms are at elevated risk of low birth weight. Mental health problems of pregnancy should be addressed for the prevention of low birth weight.
Potential for non-combustible nicotine products to reduce socioeconomic inequalities in smoking: a systematic review and synthesis of best available evidence
Authors: Lucherini Mark , Smith Katherine , Hill Sarah
Published: October 2019

Background: While some experts have emphasised the potential for e-cigarettes to facilitate cessation among smokers with low socioeconomic status (SES), there is limited evidence of their likely equity impact . We assessed the potential for electronic cigarettes and other non-combustible nicotine-containing products (NCNPs) to reduce inequalities in smoking by systematically reviewing evidence on their use by SES in countries at stage IV of the cigarette epidemic.
Methods: Ten electronic databases were searched in February 2017 using terms relating to e-cigarettes, smokeless tobacco and nicotine replacement therapy (NRT); and SES. We included studies published since 1980 that were available in English and examined product use by SES indicators such as income and education. Data synthesis was based on those studies judged to be of medium- to high-quality using guidelines adapted from the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme.
Results: We identified 54 studies describing NCNP use by SES across 12 countries, of which 27 were judged of sufficient quality to include in data synthesis. We found mixed patterns of e-cigarette current use by SES, with evidence of higher use among low-income adults but unclear or mixed findings by education and occupation. In contrast, smokeless tobacco current use was consistently higher among low SES adults. There was very limited evidence on the SES distribution of NRT in adults and of all NCNPs in young people.
Conclusions: The only NCNP for which there are clear patterns of use by SES is smokeless tobacco, where prevalence is higher among low SES groups. While this suggests a potentially positive impact on inequalities in smoking (if NCNP use displaces smoked tobacco use), this has not been seen in practice. These findings do not support the suggestion that e-cigarettes have the potential to reduce social inequalities in smoking, since i) current evidence does not show a clear trend of higher e-cigarette use in population groups with higher tobacco consumption, and ii) the experience of smokeless tobacco suggests that – even where NCNP use is higher among low SES groups – this does not necessarily replace smoked tobacco use in these groups.
Digital anatomical study of screw placement for quadrilateral plate through the middle window of ilioinguinal approach
Authors: Zhao Bei , Mu Weidong
Published: October 2019

Background Screw placement directly for quadrilateral plate fractures of the acetabulum is very difficult. This study was performed to simulate the surgical procedure and try to obtain effective and safe screw angles through the middle window of ilioinguinal approach in Chinese patients. Methods We randomly collected the pelvic computed tomography (CT) scans of 50 adults. DICOM-formatted CT-scan images were imported into Mimics software. The three-dimensional reconstruction (3D) digital model of the semi-pelvic was established. In the coronal and sagittal planes, a 3.5 mm cylinder was used to simulate the pathway of the screw from the designated insertion point. The angles of insertion and intersex differences were explored by statistical analyses. Results The screws could be inserted via four angles: medial inclination, lateral inclination, anterior inclination and posterior inclination. The mean minimum medial inclination angle (MIMIA) of insertion point A was 4.96°±1.11° in males and 8.66°±3.40° in females, and the intersex difference was significant. The mean minimum medial inclination angle (MIMIA) of insertion point C was -5.31°±3.69° in males and 1.75°±8.95° in females, and the intersex difference was significant. There were no differences in all the angles between males and females in insertion point B. Conclusions Preoperative measurement and calculation by digital tools before the screw placement for quadrilateral plate fractures of the acetabulum are feasible. Double cortical screws could be placed safely through the middle window of ilioinguinal approach to increase the stability of acetabulum.
Growth Inhibitory Effect of Fibroblast Growth Factor Peptide Antagonist on Mouse Model Breast Tumor through ERK/MAPK and PI3K/AKT Signaling Pathways
Authors: jafarzadeh mehrzad , Mousavizadeh Kazem , Bahremani Mohammad hashemi , Asghari S.mohsen
Published: October 2019

Background In the majority of cancers, metastasis of tumor cells is main cause of treatment failure. The current research investigated the effectiveness basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) peptide developed to inhibit tumor growth in 4T1 metastatic breast cancer through the PI3K/AKT and ERK/MAPK signal transduction pathways. In BALB/c mice, the tumor was induced through 4T1 tumor graft. Administration of the peptide was done one time a day at various doses of 1, 2.5, or 10 mg/kg over 14 days. After two weeks, the designed peptide injected .After the treatment period, the mice underwent surgery, and tumors were used for the Immunohistochemistry, Apoptosis, and western blot examinations.Results Based on one-way ANOVA and p ≤0.05, findings showed that the P-AKT and p-ERK contents in tumors treated with peptide reduced in two mentioned signaling pathways and the peptide injection were effective in reducing or inhibiting tumor growth.Conclusion Our findings showed that in the two signal transduction pathways, the P-AKT and p-ERK levels were significantly different from the negative control group.
Prevalence, antimicrobial susceptibility and plasmid profiling of Vibrio spp. isolated from cultured groupers in Peninsular Malaysia
Authors: Amalina Nor Zulkiply , Santha Silvaraj , Zulperi Dzarifah , Amal MNA , Yusof Mohd Termizi , Zamri-Saad Mohd , Ina-Salwany Md Yasin
Published: October 2019

Background: Numerous prevalence studies of Vibrio spp. infection in fish have been extensively reported worldwide, including Malaysia. Unfortunately, information on the prevalence of Vibrio spp. in groupers (Epinephelus spp.) is limited. In this study, groupers obtained from nine farms located at different geographical regions in Malaysia were sampled for the presence of pathogenic Vibrio spp. and their susceptibility profiles against seven antibiotics. Results: Out of 270 grouper samples, 195 (72%) were detected with the presence of Vibrio spp. Vibrio communis showed highest prevalence in grouper (28%), followed by V. parahaemolyticus (25%), V. alginolyticus (19%), V. vulnificus (14%), V. rotiferianus (3%), Vibrio sp. (3%), V. campbellii (2%), V. mytili (2%), V. furnissii (2%), V. harveyi (1%), V. tubiashii (1%), V. fluvialis (0.3%) and V. diabolicus (0.3%). Assessment on the antibiotic susceptibility profiles of the Vibrio spp. revealed that majority of the isolates were susceptible to tetracycline, streptomycin, erythromycin and bacitracin, but resistance to ampicillin, penicillin G and vancomycin. The mean MAR index of the Vibrio isolates was 0.51, with 85% of the isolates showed MAR index value of higher than 0.2. Results indicate that the Vibrio spp. were continuously exposed to antibiotics. Furthermore, the plasmid profiles of Vibrio spp. showed that 38.7% of the isolates harbored plasmid with molecular weight of more than 10 kb, while 61.3% were without plasmid. During curing process, Vibrio spp. lost their plasmid, but remained resistant to ampicillin, penicillin G, bacitracin and vancomycin while a few isolates remained resistant to erythromycin, streptomycin and tetracycline.The results suggested that the resistance to antibiotics in isolated Vibrio spp. might be due to chromosomal and plasmid borne. Conclusions: This study demonstrates the prevalence of Vibrio spp. in groupers and the distribution of multidrug resistance strains that could be of concern to the farmers in Malaysia. In addition, data from this study can be further used in fish disease management plan.
Genome-wide identification of diacylglycerol acyltransferases (DGAT) family genes influencing milk production traits in buffalo
Authors: Liu Jiajia , Wang Zhiquan , Li Jun , Li Hui , Yang Liguo
Published: October 2019

Background: The diacylglycerol acyltransferases (DGAT) are a vital group of enzymes in catalyzing triacylglycerol biosynthesis. DGAT genes like DGAT1 and DGAT2 , have been identified as two functional candidate genes affecting milk production traits, especially for fat content in milk. Buffalo milk is famous for its excellent quality, which is rich in fat and protein content. Therefore, this study aimed to characterize DGAT family genes in buffalo and to find candidate markers or DGAT genes influencing lactation performance. Results: We performed a genome-wide detection and identified eight DGAT genes in buffalo. All the DGAT genes classified into two distinct clades (DGAT1 and DGAT2 subfamily) based on their phylogenetic relationships and structural features. Chromosome localization displayed eight buffalo DGAT genes distributed on five chromosomes. Collinearity analysis revealed that the DGAT family genes were extensive homologous between buffalo and cattle. Afterward, we discovered genetic variants loci within the genomic regions that DGAT genes located in buffalo. Eight haplotype blocks were constructed and were associated with buffalo milk production traits. Single marker association analyses revealed four most significant single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) mainly affecting milk protein percentage or milk fat yield in buffalo. Genes functional analysis indicated that these DGAT family genes could influence lactation performance in the mammal through regulating lipid metabolism. Conclusion: In the present study, we performed a comprehensive analysis for the DGAT family genes in buffalo, which including identification, structural characterization, phylogenetic classification, chromosomal distribution, collinearity analysis, association analysis, and functional analysis. These findings provide useful information for an in-depth study to determine the role of DGAT family gens play in the regulation of milk production and milk quality improvement in buffalo. Keywords: DGAT family, DGAT1, DGAT2 , Milk production traits, Buffalo genome
Rapid genomic DNA variation in newly hybridized carp lineages derived from Cyprinus carpio (♀) × Megalobrama amblycephala (♂)
Authors: Luo Kaikun , Wang Shi , Fu Yeqing , Zhou Pei , Huang Xuexue , Gu Qianhong , Li Wuhui , Wang Yude , Hu Fangzhou , Liu Shaojun
Published: October 2019

Background: Distant hybridization can generate changes in phenotypes and genotypes that lead to the formation of new hybrid lineages with genetic variation. In this study, based on the establishment of two bisexual fertile carp lineages, including the improved diploid common carp (IDC) lineage and the improved diploid scattered mirror carp (IDMC) lineage, from the interspecific hybridization of common carp (Cyprinus carpio, 2n = 100) (♀) × blunt snout bream (Megalobrama amblycephala, 2n = 48) (♂), provided a good platform to investigate the relationship of genetic and variation between the parents and their hybrid progenies. Result: In this study, we investigated the genetic variation of 12 Hox genes in the two types of carp lineages derived from common carp (♀) × blunt snout bream (♂). Hox gene clusters were abundant in the first generation of IDC, but most were not stably inherited in the second generation. In contrast, we did not find obvious mutations in Hox genes in the first generation of IDMC, and almost all the Hox gene clusters were stably inherited from the first generation to the second generation of IDMC. Interestingly, we found obvious recombinant clusters of Hox genes in both carp lineages, and partially recombinant clusters of Hox genes were stably inherited from the first generation to the second generation in both types of carp lineages. On the other hand, some Hox genes were gradually becoming pseudogenes, and some genes were completely pseudogenised in IDC or IDMC. Conclusions: Our results provided important evidence that distant hybridization produces rapid genomic DNA changes that may or may not be stably inherited, providing novel insights into the function of hybridization in the establishment of improved lineages used as new fish resources for aquaculture.
Shedding light: A phylotranscriptomic perspective illuminates the origin of photosymbiosis in marine bivalves
Authors: Li Jingchun , Lemer Sarah , Kirkendale Lisa , Bieler Rüdiger , Cavanaugh Colleen , Giribet Gonzalo
Published: October 2019

Background Photosymbiotic associations between metazoan hosts and photosynthetic dinoflagellates are crucial to the trophic and structural integrity of many marine ecosystems, including coral reefs. Although extensive efforts have been devoted to study the short-term ecological interactions between coral hosts and their symbionts, long-term evolutionary dynamics of photosymbiosis in many marine animals are not well understood. Within Bivalvia, the second largest class of mollusks, obligate photosymbiosis is found in two marine lineages: the giant clams (subfamily Tridacninae) and the heart cockles (subfamily Fraginae), both in the family Cardiidae. Morphologically, giant clams show relatively conservative shell forms whereas photosymbiotic fragines exhibit a diverse suite of anatomical adaptations including flattened shells, leafy mantle extensions, and lens-like microstructural structures. To date, the phylogenetic relationships between these two subfamilies remain poorly resolved, and it is unclear whether photosymbiosis in cardiids originated once or twice.Results In this study, we establish a backbone phylogeny for Cardiidae utilizing RNASeq-based transcriptomic data from Tridacninae, Fraginae, and other cardiids. A variety of phylogenomic approaches were used to infer the relationship between the two groups. Our analyses found conflicting gene signals and potential rapid divergence among the lineages. Overall, results support a sister group relationship between Tridacninae and Fraginae, which diverged during the Cretaceous. Although a sister group relationship is recovered, ancestral state reconstruction using maximum likelihood-based methods reveals two independent origins of photosymbiosis, one at the base of Tridacninae and the other within a symbiotic Fraginae clade.Conclusions The newly revealed common ancestry between Tridacninae and Fraginae brings a possibility that certain genetic, metabolic, and/or anatomical exadaptation existed in their last common ancestor, which promoted both lineages to independently establish photosymbiosis, possibly in response to the modern expansion of reef habitats.
A novel insight into nitrogen and auxin signaling in lateral root formation in tea plant [Camellia sinensis (L.) O. Kuntze]
Authors: Hu Shunkai , Yang Yiqing , Zhang Mi , Xuan Wei , Zou Zhongwei , Arkorful Emmanuel , Chen Yi , Ma Qingping , Jeyaraj Anburaj , Chen Xuan , Li Xinghui
Published: October 2019

Lateral roots (LRs) are the main organ for tea plant to absorb soil moisture and nutrients. Tea plant (Camellia sinensis) is one of the most popular non-alcoholic beverage worldwide. LRs formation and development are limited by the nitrogen and auxin signaling pathway. In order to understand the function of auxin and nitrogen in LRs formation and development, transcriptome analysis was applied to investigate the differentially expressed genes involved in LRs of tea plant treated with indole-3-butyric acid (IBA), N-1-naphthylphthalamic acid (NPA), low and high nitrogen concentration. A total of 296 common differentially expressed genes were mainly identified and annotated to four signaling pathways, such as nitrogen metabolism, plant hormone signal transduction, Glutathione metabolism and transcription factors. RNA-sequencing results revealed that majority of differentially expressed genes play important roles in nitrogen metabolism and hormonal signal transduction. Low nitrogen condition induced the biosynthesis of auxin and accumulation of genes expression; thus, regulated lateral roots formation. Furthermore, metabolisms of cytokinin and ethylene biosynthesis were also involved in lateral roots development. Transcription factors like MYB genes also contributed to the lateral roots formation of tea plants through secondary cell wall biosynthesis. Reversed phase ultra performance liquid chromatography (RP-UPLC) results showed that the auxin concentration in lateral roots was increased, while the nitrogen level decreased. Thus, tea plant LRs formation could be induced by low nitrogen concentration via auxin biosynthesis and accumulation. This study provides new insights into the mechanisms associated with nitrogen-auxin signaling pathways to regulate LRs formation and arises new clues for the efficient utilization of nitrogen in tea plant at the genetic level
Absence of reproduction-immunity trade-off in male Drosophila melanogaster evolving under differential sexual selection
Authors: Syed Zeeshan Ali , Arun Manas Geeta , Gupta Vanika , Dhiman Aatashi , Nandy Bodhisatta , Prasad Nagaraj Guru
Published: October 2019

Background: The theory of trade-off suggests that limited resources should lead to trade-off in resource intensive traits such as, immunity related and sexually selected traits in males. Alternatively, sexual exaggerations can also act as an honest indicator of underlying immunocompetence, leading to positive correlations between these traits. Evidences in support of either hypothesis in invertebrates is equivocal. Whereas several studies have addressed this question, few have used naturally occurring pathogens and realized post infection realized immunity (e.g., survivorship) to assay the fitness correlations between these two sets of traits.
Results: Adopting an experimental evolution approach, we evolved replicate populations of Drosophila melanogaster under differential sexual selection (high and low) regimes for over a hundred generations and found the following in virgin and mated males in three separate assays:
Post infection survivorship against two natural pathogens - Pseudomonas entomophila (Pe) and Staphylococcus succinus (Ss): Mated males survived better against Pe, but were no different than virgins against Ss.

Bacterial clearance ability against a third natural pathogen Providencia rettgeri (Pr): Mated males had significantly lower CFUs than virgins.

However, sexual selection history had no effect on realized immunity of either virgin or mated males.
Conclusion: We show that while mating can affect realized immunity in a pathogen specific way, sexual selection did not affect the same. The results highlight that complex polygenic traits such as immunity and reproductive traits not necessarily evolve following a binary trade-off model. We also stress the importance natural pathogens while studying sexual selection-immunity correlations.
Comprehensive analysis of codon usage pattern of whole genome in protozoa, Stylonychia lemnae
Authors: Wang Ying , Yao Lin , Fan Jinfeng , Zhang Xueying , Guo Changhong , Chen Ying
Published: October 2019

Background: Codon usage pattern is an important evolutionary feature in genomes widely observed in many organisms. Stylonychia lemnae is a classical model single-celled eukaryote, and a quintessential ciliate typified by dimorphic nuclei: a germline micronucleus and a vegetative macronucleus. Analysis of codon usage pattern of S. lemnae macronucleus genome helps in understanding evolution at molecular level and acquires signiﬁcance in mRNA translation, design of transgenic and new gene discovery.
Results: The codons of the macronucleus genome sequence of S. lemnae were analyzed and 20,750 coding sequences (CDS) were screened. The overall codon usage of S. lemnae is similar and slightly biased. The value of effective number of codons (ENC) showed that the overall extent of codon usage bias in S. lemnae is relatively high. Nucleotide analysis showed that the overall codon usage is biased toward A- and U-ending codons. The phylogenetic analysis indicated that ciliate is independent evolutionary origins from a common ancestor. The RSCU analysis showed that the codon usage pattern of S. lemnae is more similar to that of Thtrahymana thermophila and Paramecium caudatum . Correlation analysis, ENC-GC 3S plot, and PR2 plot indicated that the codon usage patterns of S. lemnae are not only influenced by mutational pressure but also by natural selection, but neutrality plot analysis showed that the latter plays a major role.
C onclusions : Codon usage patterns in eukaryotes are not determined by translational efficiency, but also are determined by the genome. Our study is the ﬁrst attempt to evaluate the codon usage pattern of S.lemnae macronucleus genome to better understand the evolutionary changes. These results built the base for further research on the molecular evolution of S. lemnae .
A causal model of public health administration, need for mental health care, and mental health status associated with mental health service utilization among Asian immigrant employees after ASEAN community’s policy
Authors: Kaewanuchit Chonticha , Sawangdee Yothin
Published: October 2019

Background One important outcome national and international migration is the development of economies and societies worldwide. A rapid change amongst Asian immigrant employees who were working and settling down in Thailand, especially, Burmese, Lao, and Cambodian was that it lead to poor physical health and mental health. It lead into an incremental need for a system of public health administration because of the difficulties in accessing both the health service and beneficial health information after ASEAN community’s policy. The aim of this research was to analyze a causal model of public health administration, the need for mental health care, and mental health status associated with mental health service utilization among Asian immigrant employees after ASEAN community’s policy. Methods This study was conducted using a cross-sectional survey with 400 Asian immigrant employees. They were Burmese (200 cases), Lao (100 cases), and Cambodian (100 cases) in 2017. Measures included general characteristics, public health administration, the need for mental health care, and mental health status associated with mental health service utilization. A causal model for mental health service utilization among Asian immigrant employees were verified using path analysis. Result s Public health administration, the need for mental health care, and mental health status in each group all have a direct effect on mental health service utilization. Public health administration among Asian immigrants employees following the ASEAN community policy had the most direct effect on mental health service utilization with a standardized regression weight of 0.758 (p-value < 0.01). The ASEAN community policy; a mediator of this research, also had a direct effect on mental health service utilization. Conclusion This research demonstrates that Public health administration was an important factor related to mental health service utilization among Asian immigrants employees following the ASEAN community policy. It also recommends using qualitative methods for further research among Asian immigrant employees who are from developing countries. Key words: Public health administration; Need for mental health care; Mental health status; Asian immigrant employees; Mental health service utilization Trial Registration Number: The Thai Clinical Trials Registry code, Thailand was TCTR20170713001.
Knowledge of malaria prevention and control methods and associated factors among rural households in West Belesa district, North West Ethiopia, 2019.
Authors: Aragie Tsigie Baye
Published: October 2019

Introduction: In Ethiopia malaria is one of the top ten leading causes of morbidity and mortality.The two major malaria prevention services implemented in Ethiopia are targeted Indoor Residual Spray (IRS) with insecticides and distribution of Long Lasting Insecticidal Nets (LLIN). Community knowledge towards prevention and control methods had been proven to play important role for the implementation of effective and sustainable interventions against malaria. This information is limited in the study area regarding to knowledge and practice on malaria prevention and control. This study aimed to assess knowledge towards malaria prevention and control methods and its associated factors among households in West Bellessa district, 2019. Methods: Community based cross-sectional mixed quantitative and qualitative study was conducted from April to June 2019 in West Bellessa district, Amhara region, North West Ethiopia. Multistage sampling was used to select an estimated sample size of 770. Pretested structured questionnaire was used for the quantitative component and semi-structured questionnaire for qualitative one. Quantitative data were coded and entered using Epi info software version 7 and exported to SPSS version 20 for analysis. Binary logistic regression model was fitted to identify the associated factors. Odds Ratio (OR) with 95 % Confidence Interval (CI) was used to assess the strength of association. The qualitative data transcribed manually in thematic approach. Result: A total of 770 subjects were included in this study with 99.5% response rate. Of the total respondents 75.6% had good compressive knowledge about malaria prevention measures. Poorest wealth quintiles [AOR= 0.40, 95% CI: 0.23, 0.73], poor wealth quintiles [AOR= 0.38, 95% CI: 0.21, 0.70], and medium wealth quintiles [AOR= 0.41, 95% CI: 0.22, 0.75], living in Menti Kebele [AOR= 3.01, 95% CI 1.87, 5.15], living in Abay tera kebele [AOR= 2.03, 95% CI 1.23, 3.34] were significantly associated with compressive knowledge about malaria prevention control.Conclusion: In overall there was relatively high knowledge of malaria prevention and control measures. There was decrement in the effect of LLIN and IRS as compared with the previous brands. Wealth index and respondents living kebele are predictors for malaria prevention knowledge of malaria.
Transcript profiles of stria vascularis in models of Waardenburg syndrome
Authors: Chen Linjun , Wang Yi , Chen Lei , wang Fangyuan , Ji Fei , Sun Wei , Zhao Hui , Han Weiju
Published: October 2019

Background: Waardenburg syndrome is a common syndromic hereditary deafness disease caused by stria vascularis dysfunction. However, the genetic pathway affecting stria vascularis development is still not clear. In this paper, the transcript profile of stria vascularis of Waardenburg syndrome was studied using Mitf-M mutant pigs and mice models. GO analysis was performed to identify the differential gene expression caused by Mitf-M mutation. Results: There were over than one hundred genes mainly found in tyrosine metabolism, melanin formation and ion transportations showed significant changes in both models. In addition, there were some spiced specific gene changes in the stria vascularis in the mouse and porcine models. The expression of tight junction-associated genes, including Cadm1, Cldn11, Pcdh1, Pcdh19 and Cdh24 genes , were significantly higher in porcine models compared to mouse models. Vascular-related and ion channel-related genes in the stria vascularis were also shown significantly difference between the two species. The expression of Col2a1, Col3a1, Col11a1 and Col11a2 genes were higher and the expression of Col8a2, Cd34 and Ncam genes were lower in the porcine model compared to mouse model. In both models, Trpm1, Kcnj13, and Slc45a2 genes were both affected by the Mitf-M mutation. In the pig models, the expression of Kcnn1, Clcn2 and Trpm4 genes were higher than the mouse model; whereas the expression of Trpm7, Kcnq1 and Kcnj8 genes were higher in the mouse models than the pig models. However, there was no significant difference in the morphology of the stria vascularis between these two models. Conclusions: Our data suggests that there is a significant difference on the gene expression and function between these two models.
Medically Underserved Community Integrative Health Education And Interprofessional Practice Model With First Year Physician Assistant, Physical Therapy, And Occupational Therapy Students
Authors: Beck Barbra , Boos Karene , Bright Elizabeth , Leveille Wendie , Vega Amy , George Thomas E St. , Ruggeri Barbara , Hopp Jane
Published: October 2019

Background This study presents a unique combined approach to integrative health education and interprofessional practice in primary care with first-year health science graduate students.Methodology Physician assistant, physical therapy, and occupational therapy students participated in an integrative health interprofessional curriculum and collaborated with Hispanic seniors in a medically underserved community while working on interprofessional teams. Impact on students’ knowledge and attitudes related to integrative health and interprofessional practice are assessed.Results Following exposure to the year-long curriculum, students demonstrated significant improvements in their knowledge of and attitudes towards integrative health and in their attitudes and perceived skills related to interprofessional practice.Conclusions Results suggest that the combined integrative health and interprofessional practice approach in a medically underserved community was successful in positively affecting related knowledge, attitudes, and skills. Further study related to longitudinal results is recommended.
Significance of genetic counseling and prenatal diagnosis on α2 codon 30 (-GAG) (HBA2: c.91_93delGAG) mutation
Authors: Guan Zhiyang , Zhong Zeyan , He Hailin , Chen Dan , Zhong Guoxing , Yang Kunxiang , Chen Jianhong
Published: October 2019

Background : Non-deletional hemoglobin (Hb) H disease is the severest form of α- thalassemia ( thal ) compatible with post-natal life, which is caused by the interaction of an α-globin gene mutation with α 0 -thal. Therefore, it is important to identify rare α-globin gene mutations for the prevention of severe form of non-deletional Hb H disease . Methods: In all, 61,796 samples were characterized at our center. Common α- and β- thalassemia mutations were detected by routine DNA analysis (gap-PCR and PCR-RDB ). The DNA sequencing of α-globin genes was performed to identify the unknown mutation. Statistical analyses were conducted using SPSS 19.0 statistical software. Results: Of the 61,796 samples, eight were identified as α2 codon 30 (-GAG) ( HBA2 : c.91_93delGAG) mutation s, and of these, four had coinheritance with - - SEA deletion Patients with the heterozygous α2 codon 30 (-GAG) ( HBA2 : c.91_93delGAG) mutation had significantly lower levels of MCV and MCH than healthy individuals ( p < 0.01), and coinheritance with - - SEA deletion aggravated the α-thal phenotype , associated with severe Hb H disease . Moreover, a significant difference in the clinical severity was found in the Hb H disease patients with the same genotype.Conclusions: This finding is of great significance for clinicians to provide accurate genetic counseling , particularly prenatal diagnosis and establish a rigorous diagnostic procedure .
Evaluation of bat-related knowledge, perceptions, and practices in an urban community: A strategy for Conservation Biology and health promotion
Authors: Santos Norlan de Jesus , Paz Elen Santos da , Carneiro Ianei de Oliveira , Franke Carlos Roberto
Published: October 2019

The aim of this ethnozoological study was to identify variables related to knowledge, perceptions, and practices associated with the occurrence of bats in an urban area. We carried a retrospective observational study with residents of 31 cases and 178 control households. We defined the cases as households where accidents occurred from 2012 to 2015, according to official health records. The control households have no accident record in the same area. We conducted data collection through a semi-structured questionnaire and performed descriptive analyses and proportion (chi-square) to identify differences between the responses of cases and controls. We have identified important gaps in relation to basic knowledge, good practices, and the importance of bats to public health. These findings should be targeted for intervention and correction by environmental educators and health managers aimed at reducing the risk of accidents with bats and zoonosis, mainly rabies.
Effect of polythene pot thickness on seedling growth of Chrysophyllum albidum G. Don (Ericales: Sapotaceae)
Authors: Ojo M. O. , Adeniran T.
Published: October 2019

The study investigated the response of tree seedlings to different pot thickness. Chrysophyllum albidum G. Don (Ericales: Sapotaceae) seedlings were subjected to four treatments, T1 = 0.01 mm pot polythene thickness, T2 = 0.02 mm polythene pot thickness, T3 = 0.03 mm polythene pot thickness, T4 = 0.04 mm pot polythene thickness, 0.01 mm served as control. There were four treatments replicated five times making a total of twenty seedlings altogether. The experiment was arranged in Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD). Growth parameters assessed fortnightly were plant height (cm), stem diameter (mm) and number of leaves. Soil temperature of each treatment at different time intervals were also monitored and recorded. Data recorded were analyzed using descriptive statistics and analysis of variance (ANOVA). The result showed that T1 had the best performance in terms of plant height and stem diameter while equal number of leaves were recorded in all the treatments. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) showed that there were no significant differences among treatments at 5% level of significance. This indicates that polythene pot thickness of 0.01 mm-0.04 mm can be used to raise C. albidum seedlings at the nursery stage. Soil temperature increases with polythene pot thickness. Hence, T4 gave the highest soil temperature of 36.7 oC. Soil temperature and seedlings growth increases with polythene pots thickness. For optimum growth and development of C. albidum seedlings in the nursery 0.01 mm polythene pot should be used.
Effect of temperature on seed germination of Bombax costatum Pellegr. & Vuill. (Malvales: Malvaceae) from Ondo and Oyo States, Nigeria
Authors: Ojo M. O.
Published: October 2019

Effect of temperature on seed germination of Bombax costatum Pellegr & Vuill. (Malvales: Malvaceae), from four provenances in South Western Nigeria was investigated. A set of three replicates of 25 seeds per provenance were used for the experiment which was laid in a completely randomized block design. The seeds were exposed to fire temperature regimes for germination tests: 28 oC, 20 oC, 5 oC, 35 oC and 20 oC. Seed germination was recorded for 4 weeks. Data obtained were subjected to analysis of variance. Result showed that significant differences in seed germination under varying temperature regimes (P < 0.05). Interaction effect between temperature and provenances was not significant (P < 0.05). Seeds placed in ambient temperature had the highest mean number of germination (20.75) while the least mean value (0.17) was observed for cold room (-20 oC). B. costatum seeds should be exposed to ambient temperature so as to promote seed germination.
Arbuscular mycorrhizal association and dependency determined the pioneer plant community, diversity structure and plant cover in two river bank under same climate
Authors: Ghosh Somdatta , Kuila D. , Verma N. K.
Published: October 2019

Early colonization of plants in an area is influenced mostly by climatic, edaphic and phytogeographic factors. As arbuscular mycorrhizae (AM) was associated with early invasion of land plants on earth, AM may have some role in defining the first seral community in any land. Two riverbanks were selected to study their pioneer plant community structure with species composition and diversity, soil characters and arbuscular mycorrhizal association; and correlations among these factors. Species composition, diversity and richness indices, active AM association of early colonizing plant species, soil texture, moisture, pH and E.C in two river banks differed. Similarity index for plant species between the two communities was poor. Diversity and richness indices were high in K site while evenness was high in R site. AM colonization and spore density correlated highly with plant cover and frequency in both riverbanks. Soil moisture showed a strong negative impact on mycorrhization, soil organic carbon showed little. Soil pH showed varied correlation in different sites. Early colonizing plants in R site with silt-loam soil with high moisture level are found poorly mycotrophic or nonmycotrophic; though plant cover correlated highly with mycotrophy in both sites. Plants in sandy soil of K site are highly mycotrophic and with high arbuscular and vesicular colonizations. The distribution of frequency in R site is highly deviated from Raunkiuer’s frequency class; in K site it is rather stable. The soil condition is only key factor to determine plant composition and plant-mycorrhizal relations influencing colonization of early seral community.
Nutritional value and safety of air potato Dioscorea bulbifera L. fermented with Pleurotus ostreatus and Calocybe indica
Authors: Bolaniran Tolulope , Ogidi Clement Olusola , Akinyele Bamidele Juliet
Published: October 2019

The proximate, minerals, antinutrient and amino acid contents of the unfermented air potato (UAP), fermented air potato (APF), fermented air potato with Pleurotus ostreatus (APP) and fermented air potato with Calocybe indica (APC) were carried out using standard methods. The biosafety of the samples was also determined using Wistar rats. APP has the highest crude fiber (11.61%) and protein content (20.44%). APF has the highest moisture content of 12.95%, while UAP has the highest carbohydrate content of 71.46%. The mineral composition (mg/g) of samples revealed that APP has the highest Zn (1.21), Fe (7.53) and Mn (0.78%). APC has the highest Ca (71.31%), Mg (4.76) and K (60.65), while APF has the highest Cu (1.72%), Ni (0.38%), Cr (0.65%), Cd (0.29) and Pb (25.16). Unfermented air potato (UAP) contains the highest amount of phenols, tannin and saponin with the values of 1.16 mg/g, 2.50 mg/g and 2.57 mg/g, respectively. APP has the highest flavonoid (2.77 mg/g) and alkaloids (3.05 mg/g) and significantly different (p < 0.05) from other samples. Essential and non-essential amino acid detected in unfermented and fermented air potato ranged from 0.70 to 10.81 mg/g. Hematological and histopathological studies revealed no adverse effect on the blood and organs of the rats. The fungal mycelia enhanced the nutritional contents of fermented air potato. Hence, bioactive compounds in air potato can be of exploited and supplemented into food products.
Digenean parasites of the Family Lecithodendriidae (Luhe, 1901) Odhner, 1901 infecting the frog Hoplobatrachus tigerinus (Anura: Dicroglossidae) of the Western Ghats, Wayanad Region, India
Authors: Shinad Keloth , Prasadan Puthanpurayil Kandambeth
Published: October 2019

Three species of digenean parasites, Pleurogenoides euphlycti, P. wayanadensis and Meharorchis ranarum of the frog Hoplobatrachus tigerinus (Anura, Dicroglossidae) from the Wayanad Region of the South Western Ghats are reported in this paper. Multiple infections were also recorded during the study. Prevalence of infection of P. euphlycti, P. wayanadensis and M. ranarum were 15.15%, 9.09% and 12.12%, respectively, and the intensity of infection were 5.2, 7.3 and 8, and the mean abundance were 0.78, 0.66 and 0.96, respectively. Mean abundance is an indication of the dispersion of parasites among hosts. The mean abundance and the intensity were at the maximum level in M. ranarum infection and that of prevalence of infection was at the maximum level in of P. euphlycti infection.
The Role of Social Context in the Talent Development Process at the Higher Education Level
Authors: Eddles-Hirsch Katrina
Published: October 2019

This small-scale study addresses the limited research available on the lifeworld experiences of gifted tertiary level students. Whilst there is a wealth of research on the experiences of gifted students at the primary and secondary school level, not much is known about the learning experiences of gifted undergraduates. This study seeks to give a voice to gifted undergraduates through a phenomenological framework, which is a methodology that allows the perceptions of the participant rather than that of outside researchers to take precedence. Four gifted graduates (2 male and 2 female) who attended a small, urban university in New South Wales and had achieved in the top 2% of their cohort were selected for this study. Participants described the types of learning environments that had supported their talent development such as mentorship and cross level classes, as well as types of social contexts that impeded the talent development process. Different types of social coping strategies were also uncovered. One interesting outcome of this study was the finding that many of the social coping strategies used by gifted students at the high school level were still in operation at the tertiary level. The implications of this study should help educators at the tertiary level better understand how to support the talent development process and develop optimal learning environments for their gifted student populations.