bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
DETERMINASI PELUANG ADOPSI TEKNOLOGI BUDIDAYA TERNAK AYAM KUB DI PAPUA BARAT
Authors: Ijah Halijah , Altandjung Ririen Indriawaty
Published: May 2020

Pengkajian budidaya ayam KUB di Papua Barat telah dilakukan di KP Sorong, tahun 2017 yang hasilnya terbukti adaptif dengan kondisi setempat.  Makalah ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui peluang adopsi teknologi budidaya ternak ayam KUB tersebut di tingkat petani. Pengumpulan data dilakukan melalui survey dan observasi lapangan di perkampungan sekitar KP Sorong, yang melibatkan petani yang sudah mencoba mengikuti pemeliharaan ayam KUB yang bersumber dari KP Sorong. Data yang dikumpulkan meliputi karakteristik petani dan data tahapan budidaya yang dilakukan petani dalam membudidayakan ayam KUB serta respon petani terhadap ayam KUB. Bahasan diperkaya dengan data sekunder dan hasil tinjauan yang diperoleh melalui studi pustaka dan penelusuran online. Data yang terkumpul dianalisis secara deskriptif kualitati dan kuantitatif yang dipertajam dengan pendekatan SWOT. Hasil analisis memberikan gambaran bahwa pengembangan teknologi budidaya ayam KUB terbukti adaptif di Papua Barat, khususnya di perkampungan sekitar KP Sorong. Faktor-faktor yang diduga menjadi determinasi peluang adopsi teknologi budidaya ayam KUB di Papua Barat, antara lain terkait dengan adanya keharusan untuk memelihara ayam KUB secara intensif, dengan penyediaan pakan yang teratur. Persyaratan itu menuntut perlunya perubahan kebiasaan petani dari biasanya memelihara ayam apa adanya tanpa risiko menjadi kegiatan yang mengandung risiko. Untuk menangkap peluang pengembangan ayam KUB di Papua Barat diperlukan pendampingan teknologi yang intensif melibatkan peneliti dan penyuluh yang kompeten dalam penerapan teknologi budidaya ayam KUB.

Kata Kunci: Ayam KUB, adopsi, peluang, determinasi, SWOT.
Development of Elastic Drag Coefficient Model and Explicit Terminal Settling Velocity Equation for Particles in Viscoelastic Fluids
Authors: Xu Zhengming , Song Xianzhi , Zhu Zhaopeng
Published: May 2020

Viscoelastic fluids are frequently used as drilling or fracturing fluids to enhance cuttings or proppant transport efficiency. The solid transport performance of these fluids largely depends on the settling behaviors of suspended particles. Different from viscoinelastic fluids, the elastic and viscous characteristics of viscoelastic fluids both affect particle settling behaviors. In this study, to separately quantify the contribution degrees of the shear viscosity and fluid elasticity on the terminal settling velocity, we decompose the total drag force into a viscous drag force and an elastic drag force. Based on the experimental data from the available literature, it is concluded that the elastic drag force is a function of the fluid elasticity, particle diameter, particle terminal settling velocity, and density difference between the fluid and particle. The formula for the elastic drag force is determined on the basis of the force analysis, and a relationship between the elastic drag coefficient and particle Reynolds number (Re) is developed. An explicit equation that directly predicts the terminal settling velocity in viscoelastic fluids is determined by correlating the dimensionless particle diameter and Re. To validate the proposed model, a total of 108 settling experiments in viscoelastic fluids are conducted. The absolute percentage error (APE) between the predicted and measured terminal settling velocities is 15.26%, which indicates that the proposed explicit terminal settling velocity equation can provide satisfactory prediction accuracy of the terminal settling velocity for particles in viscoelastic fluids. Furthermore, an illustrative example is provided to show that the proposed model can be used to calculate the required fluid elasticity to obtain the desired terminal settling velocity when the fluid shear viscosity is fixed. The proposed models are valid with a consistency index range of approximately 0.16 to 1.2 Pa⋅sn, flow behavior index range of approximately 0.282 to 0.579, an Re range of approximately 0.005 to 30, and a fluid relaxation time range of approximately 0.183 to 110 seconds. This study can help operators choose proper drilling/fracturing fluids to enhance the cuttings/proppant transport and maximize drilling/fracturing performance.
Crack Propagation Hypothesis and a Model To Calculate the Optimum Water-Soaking Period in Shale Gas/Oil Wells for Maximizing Well Productivity
Authors: Guo Boyun , Shaibu Rashid , Hou Xuejun
Published: May 2020

Currently, researchers and the industry believe that water invasion into a shale matrix should dominate the process of water soaking before flowback of hydraulic fracturing fluids. Based on laboratory observations with Tuscaloosa marine shale (TMS) cores, we postulate a hypothesis that cracks are formed in shale formations during and after hydraulic fracture stimulation and that they later contribute to improved well productivity. The formation of cracks contributes to improving well inflow performance, while the cracks also draw fracturing fluid from the hydraulic fractures, reduce fracture width, and consequently lower well inflow performance. The trade-off between crack development and fracture closure allows for an optimum water-soaking time, which could potentially maximize well productivity. A mathematical model was developed to describe the dynamic propagation of cracks based on the capillary-viscous force balance. The effect of crack formation on the long-term well productivity was analyzed using a previously published mathematical model for well productivity. A combination of the crack propagation and the well productivity models for the first time provides a technique for predicting the optimum fluid soaking time before flowback of hydraulic fracturing fluids. Sensitivity analyses show that reducing the viscosity of fracturing fluid could potentially speed up the optimum water-soaking time, while lowering the water-shale interfacial tension (IFT) could potentially delay the optimum water-soaking time. Real-time shut-in pressure data can be used in the crack propagation model to “monitor” crack development and identify the optimum water-soaking time before the flowback of hydraulic fracturing fluids for maximizing well productivity and the gas/oil recovery factor.
Influence of Virtual Reality on Visual Parameters: Immersive Versus Non-Immersive Mode
Authors: Yoon Hyeon Jeong , Kim Jonghwa , Park Sang Woo , Heo Hwan
Published: May 2020

Background: To investigate the differences in refraction, accommodative factors, visual parameters, and subjective symptoms after using two types of virtual reality (VR) content with different depths perception.Methods: Twenty-three volunteers, who played VR games in two modes (immersive and non-immersive) for 30 min, were enrolled. Visual parameters were examined before and after using VR. Accommodative factors were measured using static and dynamic methods. Subjective symptoms were assessed using a questionnaire. Differences according to VR content were compared, and correlations between each visual parameter were analyzed.Results: There were no changes in refraction or accommodative factors after use of the VR. However, there was a significant increase in the near point of accommodation (NPA), the near point of convergence (NPC), and subjective symptom scores after using the immersive mode. Correlation analysis revealed a positive correlation between baseline values of near exophoria and mean accommodative lag of the dominant eye, and also revealed a negative correlation between NPA and mean accommodative lag in the non-dominant eye. Conclusions: The use of VR for 30 min increased NPA and NPC, especially after the immersive mode was used. In addition, higher exophoria and smaller NPA is associated with increased accommodative lag after using VR.
Effects of chalazion and its treatments on the meibomian glands: a nonrandomized, prospective observation clinical study
Authors: Li Junping , Li Dongping , Zhou Na , Qi Mengying , Luo Yanzhu , Wang Yuhong
Published: May 2020

Background: To observe the effects of chalazion and its treatments on meibomian gland function and morphology in the chalazion area. Methods: This nonrandomized, prospective observational clinical study included 58 patients (67 eyelids) who were cured of chalazion, including 23 patients (23 eyelids) treated with a conservative method and 35 patients (44 eyelids) treated with surgery. Infrared meibomian gland photography combined with image analysis by ImageJ software was used to measure the chalazion area proportion. Slit-lamp microscopy was employed to evaluate meibomian gland function, and a confocal microscope was used to observe meibomian gland acinar morphology before treatment and 1 month after complete chalazion resolution. Results: At 1 month after chalazion resolution, the original chalazion area showed meibomian gland loss according to infrared meibomian gland photography in both groups. In patients who received conservative treatment, the meibomian gland function parameters before treatment were 0.74±0.75, 0.48±0.67, and 1.22±0.60, respectively. One month after chalazion resolution, the parameters were 0.35±0.49, 0.17±0.49, and 0.91±0.60, respectively; there was significant difference (P<0.05). The proportion of the chalazion area before treatment was 14.90 (11.03, 25.3), and the proportion of meibomian gland loss at 1 month after chalazion resolution was 14.64 (10.33, 25.77); there was no significant difference (P>0.05). In patients who underwent surgery, the meibomian gland function parameters before surgery were 0.93±0.87, 1.07±0.70, and 1.59±0.76, respectively, and at 1 month after chalazion resolution, they were 0.93±0.82, 0.95±0.75, and 1.52±0.70, respectively; there was no significant difference (P>0.05). The proportion of the chalazion area before surgery was 14.90 (12.04, 21.6), and the proportion of meibomian gland loss at 1 month after chalazion resolution was 14.84 (11.31, 21.81); there was no significant difference (P>0.05). The acinar structure could not be observed clearly in the meibomian gland loss area in most patients. Conclusions: Chalazion causes meibomian gland loss, and the range of meibomian gland loss is not related to the treatment method but to the range of chalazion itself. A hot compress as part of conservative treatment can improve meibomian gland function at the site of chalazion in the short term.
Drp1 is widely, yet heterogeneously, distributed in the mouse central nervous system
Authors: Luo Ting-Ting , Dai Chun-Qiu , Wang Jia-Qi , Wang Zheng-Mei , Yang Yi , Zhang Kun-Long , Wu Fei-Fei , Yang Yan-Ling , Wang Ya-Yun
Published: May 2020

Objectives: Drp1 is widely expressed in the mouse central nervous system and plays a role in inducing the mitochondrial fission process. Many diseases are associated with Drp1 and mitochondria. However, since the exact distribution of Drp1 has not been specifically observed, it is difficult to determine the impact of anti-Drp1 molecules on the human body. Clarifying the specific Drp1 distribution could be a good approach to targeted treatment or prognosis.Methods: We visualized the distribution of Drp1 in different brain regions and explicated the relationship between Drp1 and mitochondria. GAD67-GFP knock-in mice were utilized to detect the expression patterns of Drp1 in GABAergic neurons. We also further analyzed Drp1 expression in human malignant glioma tissue. Results: Drp1 was widely but heterogeneously distributed in the central nervous system. Further observation indicated that Drp1 was highly and heterogeneously expressed in inhibitory neurons. Under transmission electron microscopy, the distribution of Drp1 was higher in dendrites than other areas in neurons, and only a small amount of Drp1 was localized in mitochondria. In human malignant glioma, the fluorescence intensity of Drp1 increased from grade I-III, while grade IV showed a declining trend. Conclusion: In this study, we observed a wide heterogeneous distribution of Drp1 in the central nervous system, which might be related to the occurrence and development of neurologic disease. We hope that the relationship between Drp1 and mitochondria may will to therapeutic guidance in the clinic.
The Analysis of Risk Factors to Hypotension Occurring after Caesarean Spinal Anesthesia for Parturients with Scarred Uterus
Authors: Chen Wei , Cao Ya , chen quan yong , Lu Yan , Wang Bing , Wang Hai , Ding Fang , Guo Ling
Published: May 2020

Backgroud：This study aims to discuss the risk factors to hypotension for caesarean parturients with scarred uterus when low dose of bupivacaine and sulfentanyl are used in spinal anesthesia. Methods：A total of 322 singleton-pregnancy parturients with scarred uterus who had been scheduled for caesarean spinal anesthesia were randomly sampled. The data about the basic information of the parturients, the gestation, the fetus and the anesthesia has been recorded and filed according to the clinical questionnaires about hypotension in caesarean section. The parturients whose systolic pressure drops below 90mmHG or decreases by 20% during the time from the completion of anesthesia until the delivery of infant were classified to be Group Hypotension (Group H) and the rest are in Group non-hypotension (Group N). This study analyzes the correlation of 39 factors to the occurrence of hypotension and then further analyzes the statistically significant factors through binary classification logistic regression.Results：Of the 322 sampled parturients, 148 parturients suffered hypotension. The incidence of hypotension in this study is 45.96%. The result of univariate analysis shows that the differences in the factors including height (p=0.005), post-pregnancy Body Mass Index (BMI) (p=0.00), weight gain in gestation (p=0.000), fundal height(p=0.047), fasting time (p=0.031), exercise history in gestation (p=0.006) and dermatomal level of analgesia (p=0.000) between two groups are statistically significant. The variables with statistical significance are analyzed by multivariate logistic regression model. The result shows that BMI in gestation (OR=1.146 95%, CI 1.041-1.262, p <0.05), weight gain in gestation (OR = 1.126 95%, CI 1.060-1.198, p <0.001), exercise history in gestation (OR = 0.399, 95% CI 0.205-0.778, p = 0.007), dermatomal level of analgesia (OR = 2.248, 95% CI 1.645-3.074, p <0.001) are risk factors to hypotension occurrence after caesarean spinal anesthesia for parturients with scarred uterus. Conclusion：The incidence of hypotension occurring after caesarean spinal anesthesia for parturients with scarred uterus is relatively high. Factors including post-pregnancy BMI, weight gain in gestation, exercise history in gestation and dermatomal level of analgesia after anesthesia are risk factors to hypotension occurring after caesarean spinal anesthesia for parturients with scarred uterus. The result plays an important role in predicting the occurrence of hypotension after spinal anesthesia by parturients with scarred uterus in clinic. Trial registration：Chinese Clinical Trial Registry(chiCTR-ROC-17011251)
Construction of a metastasis-associated ceRNA network reveals a prognostic signature in lung cancer
Authors: Cao Qing , Dong Zewen , Liu Shuzhen , An Guoyan , Yan Bianbian , LEI LEI
Published: May 2020

Background: Lung cancer is the most common cancer worldwide, and metastasis is the leading cause of lung cancer related death. However, the molecular network involved in lung cancer metastasis remains incompletely described. Here, we aimed to construct a metastasis-associated ceRNA network and identify a lncRNA prognostic signature in lung cancer.Methods: RNA expression profiles were downloaded from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. Gene Ontology (GO), Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analyses and gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) were performed to investigate the function of these genes. Using Cox regression analysis, we found that a 6 lncRNA signature may serve as a candidate prognostic factor in lung cancer. Finally, we used Transwell assays with lung cancer cell lines to verify that LINC01010 acts as a tumor suppressor.Results: We identified 1249 differentially expressed (DE) mRNAs, 440 DE lncRNAs and 26 DE miRNAs between nonmetastatic and metastatic lung cancer tissues. GO and KEGG analyses confirmed that the identified DE mRNAs are involved in lung cancer metastasis. Using bioinformatics tools, we constructed a metastasis-associated ceRNA network for lung cancer that includes 117 mRNAs, 23 lncRNAs and 22 miRNAs. We then identified a 6 lncRNA signature (LINC01287, SNAP25-AS1, LINC00470, AC104809.2, LINC00645 and LINC01010) that had the greatest prognostic value for lung cancer. Furthermore, we found that suppression of LINC01010 promoted lung cancer cell migration and invasion.Conclusions: This study might provide insight into the identification of potential lncRNA biomarkers for diagnosis and prognosis in lung cancer.
Moxibustion for Allergic Rhinitis: Protocol for Evidence-based Clinical Practice Guideline
Authors: Xiong Jun , Xiang Jie , Zhang Haifeng , Hua Fanghui , Huang Shouqiang , Fu Yong , Jiang Yunfeng , Zhou Xiaohong , Liao Kai , Xu Lingling
Published: May 2020

Introduction Allergic rhinitis(AR) is a widespread non-infectious inflammatory lesion of the schneiderian membrane. Moxibustion is a traditional Chinese treatment that can effectively treat AR. At present, there is a lack of guidelines to regulate the treatment of AR by moxibustion, so relevant clinical practice guideline (CPG) need to formulate.Methods and analysis The guideline will base on the Institute of Medicine (IOM), the World Health Organization(WHO) guideline handbook, the Grade of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE)，the Appraisal of Guidelines for Research & EvaluationⅡ (AGREEⅡ), Reporting Items for practice Guideline in HealThcare (RIGHT). We will set up the Guideline working group to identify questions in the form of Population, Intervention, Comparison, Outcomes (PICO). Then we will accomplish evidence retrieval, synthesis and evaluation. Experts will programme recommendations through 2-3 rounds of the Delphi method. We will also consider patient preferences and complete peer reviews.Results The study is not complete, so there are no results to report.Conclusions The guideline will make moxibustion more standardized and effective in the treatment of AR.Registration number IPGRP-2020CN012.
Multi-Energy System Based on Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion
Authors: Li Zhihao , Su Jiapeng , Yu Hui , Jin Anjun J. , Wang Jing
Published: May 2020

The ocean thermal energy is abundant and is ready for clean energy output. Firstly, the global total is about 40 billion kW. The ocean thermal energy conversion (OTEC) is clean and renewable, the power generation is stable, and the energy stored capacity is high. Active exploitation of ocean thermal energy resources is of great significance to realize the strategy of maritime power. Next, in view of the efficiency limit of a traditional OTEC, authors propose an approach of multi-energy complementary system to improve the system efficiency based on OTEC. This approach integrates solar energy, wind energy and energy storage into a complementary OTEC system; this complementary system sets parameters at the system level. For example, a 1 MW integrated power generation system is designed. Moreover, by calculating a theoretical model, researchers investigate the system with computer aided design and simulation. The efficiency of the complementary OTEC system with solar heating can reach 12.8% and the comprehensive efficiency can reach 18.6%. Furthermore, there are many favorable by-products of OTEC that are considered beneficial for the eco-system. Finally, in this paper, the basic principle and working process of the approach are analyzed, and the system efficiency is calculated. The results show that in comparison to the traditional OTEC, the complementary system can improve the ratio of power generation output efficiency, stability and ocean energy utilization.
Solar Driven Agricultural Greenhouse Integrated with Desalination System; Energy-Water-Food Nexus
Authors: Abdullahi Kabir , Salah Alaa , Fath Hassan
Published: May 2020

This study presents the effective performance of a sustainable solar driven agricultural greenhouse (GH) self-reliant of energy and irrigation water via desalination. The GH is furnished with infrastructures such as; (i) - an inlet condenser for cool air exchanger and partial water production, (ii) - an internal cavity for crop production (iii) - roof transparent solar distillers (TSD) for solar desalination and partial shading and (iv)- a thermal chimney for natural air ventilation. A mathematical model is developed to predict the performance of the sustainable GH system. A coupled approach of MATLAB/Simulink and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) based on three simulation models were used: solar radiation, thermal energy balance and CFD model. Two parametric studies were carried out. The first one analyzed the effects of different air velocity on the system thermal performance and natural ventilation rate. The second study assessed the effects of different covering material on the transmitted solar radiation. Results from the model shows that 8.5 MJ/m2.day of total solar radiation is transmitted into the GH. The greenhouse air temperature is lowered by 5 °C and humidified by 20%, to satisfy the required conditions necessary for plant growth. Maximum water yield of 11.5 L/m2.day was obtained, aided by the addition of Al-metal net. Additionally, 2.6 kWh/m2.day of power is consumed by the air-cooling condenser. At air velocity of 0.3 m/s, there is a natural tendency of air to flow by draft, due to air temperature difference of up to 4 °C. Furthermore, glass and EVA cover materials transmit 52 and 48% of solar radiation into the GH respectively. The proposed system will enable the parallel production of water and food and enhance economical plant productivity.
Prognostic value of an autophagy-related gene expression signature for endometrial cancer patients
Authors: Wang Hui , Ma Xiaoling , Liu Jinhui , Wan Yicong , Jiang Yi , Xia Yankai , cheng wenjun
Published: May 2020

Background: Autophagy is associated with cancer development. Autophagy-related genes play significant roles in endometrial cancer (EC), a major gynecological malignancy worldwide, but little was known about their value as prognostic markers. Here we evaluated the value of a prognostic signature based on autophagy-related genes for EC. Methods: First, various autophagy-related genes were obtained via the Human Autophagy Database and their expression profiles were downloaded from The Cancer Genome Atlas. Second, key prognostic autophagy-related genes were identified via univariat, LASSO, and multivariate Cox regression analyses. Finally, a risk score to predict the prognosis of EC was calculated and validated by using the test and the entire data sets. Besides, gene set enrichment and somatic mutation analyses were also used for these prognostic autophagy-related genes. Results: A total of 40 differentially expressed autophagy-related genes in EC were screened and five of them were prognosis-related (CDKN1B, DLC1, EIF4EBP1, ERBB2 and GRID1). A prognostic signature was constructed based on these five genes using the train set, which stratified EC patients into high-risk and low-risk groups (P<0.05). In terms of overall survival, the analyses of the test set and the entire set yielded consistent results (test set: p < 0.05; entire set: p < 0.05). Time-dependent ROC analysis suggested that the risk score predicted EC prognosis accurately and independently (0.674 at 1 year, 0.712 at 3 years and 0.659 at 5 years). A nomogram with clinical utility was built. Patients in the high-risk group displayed distinct mutation signatures compared with those in the low-risk group. Gene set enrichment analysis revealed high risk score was associated with tumor initiation and progression associated pathways. Conclusions: Based on five autophagy-related genes (CDKN1B, DLC1, EIF4EBP1, ERBB2 and GRID1), our model can independently predict the OS of EC patients by combining molecular signature and clinical characteristics.
Construction of prognostic predictor by comprehensive analyzing alternative splicing events for Colon adenocarcinoma
Authors: Qu Yaqi , Guo Peng , Zhang Le , Tian Lifei
Published: May 2020

Background Colon adenocarcinoma (COAD) is one of the most common malignant tumors with high incidence and mortality rates worldwide. Reliable prognostic biomarkers are needed to identify to guide clinical practice.Materials and Method Comprehensive gene expression with AS profiles for each patient were downloaded using SpliceSeq database from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). Cox regression analysis was conducted to screen prognostic AS events. R package “limma” was used to screen different expression genes (DEGs) between normal and tumor samples in COAD cohort. Venn plot analysis was performed between DEGs and prognostic AS events, the DEGs with prognostic AS events occurred(DEGAS) were obtained. Top 30 DEGAS in protein-protein interaction(PPI) analysis were bring in Cox proportional hazards regression to establish prognostic models.Results Totally, 350 patients were included in study. 22,451 AS events were detected. 2,004 AS events form 1439 genes showed as survival-associated AS events significantly. By overlapping the 1439 genes and 6455 DEGs, 211 DEGs with AS events were obtained. After construction of PPI, top 30 hub genes were included in multivariable analysis. Finally, a risk score based on 12 genes which associated with overall survival(OS) was established (P < 0.05). The area under the curve(AUC) is 0.782. And the risk score shows as an independent predictor (P < 0.001).Conclusions By exploring survival-associated AS events, a powerful prognostic predictor was built. We aim at proposing a novel method to provide treatment targets for COAD and guide clinical practice in the future.
Spatial Estimation of Soil Erosion Using RUSLE Modeling: A case study of Dolakha District
Authors: Thapa Pawan
Published: May 2020

Background: Soil erosion is one of the major causes of the topsoil loss, that decreases fertility in the agricultural land of a mountainous region. Spatial estimation of soil erosion is necessary for an agriculture-dependent country like Nepal for preparing erosion control plans. The purpose of this study was to estimate soil erosion of Dolakha using the Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation (RUSLE) model, which analyzes the effect of Land Use and Land Cover (LULC) and slope exposition on soil erosion.Results: The soil erosion rate had been categorized into 6 erosion classes based on the erosion severity, and 5.01% of the areas was found to be under extreme severe erosion risk (> 80 Mg ha-1yr-1) that need to address by decision-maker for reducing the risk of erosion. Followed by 10 % areas were classified under high to severe with rate of soil loss range from 10 to 80 Mg ha-1yr-1. While 15% and 70% areas were still remain in moderate and low risk zone respectively. The study demonstrated the northeastern part of district suffer high soil erosion risk due to steep slope and rugged landforms.Conclusions: The result produce spatial distribution of soil erosion over Dolakha, which can be applied for conservation and management planning processes, at the policy level, by land use planners and decision-makers.
Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of Pharmacy and Medical Students Regarding Self-Medication, A Study in Zabol University of Medical Sciences
Authors: Hashemzaei Mahmoud , Afshari Mahdi , Koohkan Zahra , Bazi Ali , Rezaee Ramin , Tabrizian Kaveh
Published: May 2020

Background: Self-medication is defined as using medicinal products to treat disorders or symptoms diagnosed by one-self. Although informed self-medication is one of the ways to reduce health care costs, inappropriate self-treatment can pose various risks including drug side effects, recurrence of symptoms, drug resistance, etc. The purpose of this study was to investigate the knowledge, attitude, and practice of pharmacy and medical students toward self-medication.Methods: This study was conducted in Zabol University of Medical Sciences during 2018. A sample of 170 pharmacy and medical students was selected. A standard three-part researcher-made questionnaire was designed to address students’ knowledge, attitude, and practice. Statistical analysis was performed in SPSS 25 software.Results: According to the results, 97 (57.1%) of the students had carried out self-medication within the past 6 months. Overall, the students used self-medication on average of 4.2 ± 2.9 times per year. Self-medication was more prevalent in male students (65.4%, P = 0.043). Cough and cold were the most common symptoms treated with self-medication (93.2%), and antibiotics (74.4%) were the most commonly used drugs. The primary information source used by the students was their previous physician prescription (47.4%). Medical students' attitude toward self-medication was more positive than that of pharmacy students (19.82 ± 4.84 vs. 21.67 ± 4.05, P = 0.033). Pharmacy students; however, showed higher levels of drug information (P < 0.001). There was a statistically significant association between the level of drug information and the rate of self-medication (P = 0.005). Disease recurrence was the most common negative complication of self-medication.Conclusion: There is a need to educate pharmacy and medical students regarding self-medication and its side effects. The high prevalence of self-medication and the overuse of antibiotics can pose a significant risk of drug resistance.
Identification and validation of an immune-related prognostic signature for hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Xia Xinxin , Liu Hui , Li Yuejun
Published: May 2020

Background: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the leading causes of cancer-related mortality. The immune system plays vital roles in HCC initiation and progression. The present study aimed to construct an immune-gene related prognostic signature (IRPS) for predicting the prognosis of HCC patients. Methods: Gene expression data were retrieved from The Cancer Genome Atlas database. Univariate Cox regression analysis was carried out to identify differentially expressed genes that associated with overall survival. The IRPS was established via Lasso and multivariate Cox regression analysis. Both Cox regression analyses were conducted to determine the independent prognostic factors for HCC. Next, the association between the IRPS and clinical-related factors were evaluated. The prognostic values of the IRPS were further validated using the International Cancer Genome Consortium (ICGC) dataset. Gene set enrichment analyses (GSEA) were conducted to understand the biological mechanisms of the IRPS.Results: A total of 62 genes were identified to be candidate immune-related prognostic genes. Transcription factors-immunogenes network was generated to explore the interactions among these candidate genes. According to the results of Lasso and multivariate Cox regression analysis, we established an IRPS and confirmed its stability and reliability in ICGC dataset. The IRPS was significantly associated with advanced clinicopathological characteristics. Both Cox regression analyses revealed that the IRPS could be an independent risk factor influencing the prognosis of HCC patients. The relationships between the IRPS and infiltration immune cells demonstrated that the IRPS was associated with immune cell infiltration. GSEA identified significantly enriched pathways, which might assist in elucidating the biological mechanisms of the IRPS. Furthermore, a nomogram was constructed to estimate the survival probability of HCC patients. Conclusions: The IRPS was effective for predicting prognosis of HCC patients, which might serve as novel prognostic and therapeutic biomarkers for HCC.
Epidemiological analysis of 67 local COVID-19 clusters in Sichuan Province, China
Authors: Mao Suling , Huang Ting , Yuan Heng , Li Min , Huang Xiaomei , Yang Changxiao , Zhou Xingyu , Cheng Xiuwei , Su Qian , Wu Xianping
Published: May 2020

Background This study was intended to investigate the epidemiological characteristics of COVID-19 clusters and the severity distribution of clinical symptoms of involved cases in Sichuan Province, so as to provide information support for the development and adjustment of strategies for the prevention and control of local clusters.Methods The epidemiological characteristics of 67 local clusters of COVID-19 cases in Sichuan Province reported as of March 17, 2020 were described and analyzed. Information about all COVID-19 clusters and involved cases was acquired from the China Information System for Disease Control and Prevention and analyzed with the epidemiological investigation results taken into account.Results The clusters were temporally and regionally concentrated. Clusters caused by imported cases from Wuhan and other provinces except Wuhan accounted for 73.13%; familial clusters accounted for 68.66%; the average attack rate was 8.54%, and the average secondary attack rate was 6.11%; the median incubation period was 8.5 d;a total of 28 cases met the criteria for incubation period determination, and in the 28 cases, the incubation period was > 14 d in 21.43% (6/28). a total of 226 confirmed cases were reported in the 67 clusters. Ten cases were exposed before the confirmed cases they contacted with developed clinical symptoms, and the possibility of exposure to other infection sources was ruled out; two clusters were caused by asymptomatic carriers; confirmed cases mainly presented with fever, respiratory and systemic symptoms; a gradual decline in the severity of clinical symptoms was noted with the increase of the case generation.Conclusions Population movement and gathering restrictions and strict close contact management measures will significantly contribute to the identification and control of cases. Transmission during the incubation period and asymptomatic infections have been noted. Studies on the pathogenicity and transmissibility in these populations and on COVID-19 antibody levels and protective effects in healthy people and cases are required.
Uterine Transcriptome Analysis Reveals Mechanism Underlying the Ultrastructure Differences of Eggshell in Young and Aged Laying Hens
Authors: Feng Jia , Zhang Hai-jun , Wu Shu-geng , Qi Guang-hai , Wang J.
Published: May 2020

Background: Lower eggshell quality in the late laying period leads to economic loss. It is a major threat to the quality and safety of egg products. Age-related variations in ultrastructure were thought to induce this deterioration. Eggshell mineralization is a highly complex process under precise regulation of genes and biological pathways in uterus of laying hens. Herein, we evaluated the physical, mechanical and ultrastructure properties of eggshell and conducted RNA sequencing to learn the transcriptomic differences in uterus between laying hens in the peak (young hens) and late phase (aged hens) of production.Results: The declined breaking strength and fracture toughness of eggshell were observed in aged hen group compared to those in young hen group, accompanied with ultrastructure variations including the increased thickness of mammillary layer and the decreased incidence of early fusion. During the initial stage of eggshell formation, a total of 183 differentially expressed genes (DEGs; 125 upregulated and 58 downregulated) were identified in uterus of laying hens in the late phase in relative to those at peak production. The DEGs annotated to Gene Ontology terms related to antigen processing and presentation were downregulated in aged hens compared to young hens. The contents of proinflammatory cytokine IL-1β in uterus were higher in aged hens relative to those in young hens. Besides, the genes of some matrix proteins potentially involved in eggshell mineralization, such as ovalbumin, versican and glypican 3, were also differentially expressed between two groups.Conclusions: Altered gene expression of matrix proteins along with the compromised immune function in uterus of laying hens in the late phase of production may conduce to age-related impairments of eggshell ultrastructure and mechanical properties. The current study enhances our understanding of the age-related deteriorations in eggshell ultrastructure and provides potential targets for improvement of eggshell quality in the late laying period.
The trend of morbidity and mortality of Coronavirus disease 2019 under the first-level public health emergency response in China
Authors: Xu Jingya , Lin Xiling , Pan Xiaowen , Huang Xin , Chen Ying , Zhou Enjie , Wu Zhaoyuan , Zou Yuxuan , Xu Feng , Ren Yuezhong , Shan Peng-Fei
Published: May 2020

Background The ongoing outbreak of Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has led to declaration of public health emergency of international concern by World Health Organization and the first-level public health emergency response in China. We aimed to share the Joint Prevention and Control Mechanism taken in Mainland China and evaluate the effectiveness.Methods A powerful Joint Prevention and Control Mechanism was adopted to fight against COVID-19 in Mainland China. Data were collected from the daily epidemic reports released by the national and provincial health commissions of China from January 21 to April 6, 2020. Global data were collected from daily situation reports by World Health Organization.Results As of April 6, 2020, there were 81,740 confirmed COVID-19 cases (32 new) in Mainland China. The case fatality ratio was 4.74% and 0.85% in and outside Hubei respectively. It is gratifying to see that there were up to 22 provinces reporting zero new infections, but it can’t be ignored that there were 1,196,651 confirmed cases (68,700 new) reported in over 221 countries and territories outside China and the total death number were 69,274, nowadays China is facing great challenges of imported cases.Conclusions Great achievements have been made in controlling the spread of COVID-19 in Mainland China, but it is still a major challenge worldwide. The comprehensive and powerful control measures taken by Mainland China have proved to be effective and might be applicable to other regions.
A SNP-Based Linkage Map and QTL Identification for Resistance to Yam Anthracnose Disease (YAD) in Water Yam (Dioscorea alata)
Authors: Darkwa Kwabena , AGRE Paterne , Olasanmi Bunmi , Kolade Olufisayo , Mournet Pierre , Lopez-Montes Antonio , Dekoeyer David , Adebola Patrick , Kumar Lava P. , Asiedu Robert , Asfaw Asrat
Published: May 2020

Background: Yam anthracnose disease (YAD) caused by Colletotrichum gloeosporioides is the primary cause of yield loss in water yam (Dioscorea alata), the widely cultivated species of yam. Development of resistant cultivars have been a prime target for sustainable management of anthracnose in water yam. Molecular breeding tools are required to expedite the development of improved yam varieties. QTL analysis using high density genetic maps serve as a powerful tool to discover key locations of quantitave traits. This study aimed at tagging quantitative trait loci (QTL) for anthracnose disease resistance in a bi-parental mapping population of D. alata.Results: In this study, two contrasting parents for yam anthracnose disease reaction and their 204 full- sib offspring were used to develop a high-density genetic linkage map with 3,257 SNP markers by the GBS technique. The total length of the consensus map was 1460.94 cM with an average of 163 markers per chromosome. Four QTLs were detected for anthracnose disease resistance in 4 locations on 3 chromosomes. The proportion of phenotypic variance explained by these QTLs ranged from 10 to 13%. Plant defense response genes including GDSL-like Lipase/Acylhydrolase, Protein kinase domain and F-box protein were also detected within the QTL regions. Conclusion: The results from the present study provide valuable insight into the genetic architecture of anthracnose resistance in water yam. The candidate markers and putative genes identified herewith form a relevant resource to apply marker-assisted selection as alternative to a conventional labor-intensive screening for anthracnose resistance in water yam.
Frequent birth-and-death events throughout perforin-1 evolution
Authors: Araujo-Voces Miguel , Quesada Victor
Published: May 2020

Background Through its ability to open pores in cell membranes, perforin-1 plays a key role in the immune system. Consistent with this role, the gene encoding perforin shows hallmarks of complex evolutionary events, including amplification and pseudogenization, in multiple species. A large proportion of these events occurred in phyla for which scarce genomic data were available. However, recent large-scale genomics projects have added a wealth of information on those phyla. Using this input, we annotated perforin-1 homologs in more than eighty species including mammals, reptiles, birds, amphibians and fishes. Results We have annotated more than 400 perforin genes in all groups studied. Most mammalian species only have one perforin locus, which may contain a related pseudogene. However, we found four independent small expansions in unrelated members of this class. We could reconstruct the full-length coding sequences of only a few avian perforin genes, although we found incomplete and truncated forms of these gene in other birds. In the rest of reptilia, perforin-like genes can be found in at least three different loci with important variations in the number of copies. Notably, mammals, non-avian reptiles, amphibians, and possibly teleosts share at least one perforin-1 locus as assessed by flanking genes. Finally, fish genomes contain multiple perforin loci with varying copy numbers and diverse exon/intron patterns. We have also found evidence for shorter genes with high similarity to the C2 domain of perforin in several teleosts. A preliminary analysis suggests that these genes arose at least twice during evolution from perforin-1 homologs. Conclusions The assisted annotation of new genomic assemblies shows complex patterns of birth-and-death events in the evolution of perforin. These events include duplication/pseudogenization in mammals, multiple amplifications and losses in reptiles and fishes and at least one case of partial duplication with a novel start codon in fishes.
Ultrasonographic diagnosis, classification, and treatment of cervical lymphatic malformation in paediatric patients: a retrospective study
Authors: Li Jiaoling , Zhong Wei , Geng Xiuping , Liu Xiaofang , Zhang Xiangxiang , Wang Yurun , Li Haibo
Published: May 2020

Background: To explore the imaging features, key diagnostic points, classification, treatment, and prognosis of cervical lymphatic malformation. Methods: Overall, 320 patients diagnosed with cervical lymphatic malformation were retrospectively analysed in our hospital between 1 January 2014 and 31 December 2017. Imaging modalities included colour Doppler ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging, and contrast-enhanced computed tomography. Cervical lymphatic malformations were classified by cyst diameter. Treatments included interventional therapy, surgery, and expectant treatment. Results: Cervical lymphatic malformation was identified in 320 of 1,192 patients with lymphatic malformation, the sensitivity of ultrasonographic diagnosis was 99.38% (318/320). Cervical lymphatic malformation was classified as mixed, macrocystic, and microcystic in 184 (57.5%), 117 (36.56%), and 19 (5.94%) patients, respectively. Sixty-four (20%), ten (3.12%), seven (2.19%), and three (0.94%) patients experienced intracystic haemorrhage, infection, concurrent intracystic haemorrhage and infection, and calcification, respectively. Among 260 (81.25%) patients who underwent interventional sclerotherapy, 163 (50.94%) received it once and 96 (30%) received it two or more times. Twenty-eight (8.75%), five (1.56%), and 27 (8.44%) patients underwent surgical resection, interventional sclerotherapy plus surgery, and expectant management, respectively. Conclusions: Ultrasonography is useful for diagnosing definitely cervical lymphatic malformation. Interventional therapy is the first choice for children with confirmed cervical lymphatic malformation.
Comparison of ‘Mental Training’ and Physical Practice in the Mediation of a Structured Facial Examination
Authors: Nelskamp Arne , Schnurr Benedikt , Sterz Jasmina , Lorenz Jonas , Sader Robert , Rüsseler Miriam , Seifert Lukas Benedikt
Published: May 2020

Background: The correct performance of a structured facial examination presents a fundamental clinical skill to detect facial pathologies. However, many students are not adequately prepared in this basic clinical skill. Many argue that the traditional ‘See One, Do One’ approach is not sufficient to fully master a clinical skill. ‘Mental Training’ has successfully been used to train psychomotor and technical skills in sports and other surgical fields, but its use in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery is not described. We conducted a fully randomized experiment to determine if ‘Mental Training’ was effective in teaching a structured facial examination.Methods: 67 students were randomly assigned to a ‘Mental Training’ and ‘See One, Do One’ group. Both groups received standardized video instruction on how to perform a structured facial examination. The ‘See One, Do One’ group then received 60 minutes of guided physical practice while the ‘Mental Training’ group actively developed a detailed, stepwise sequence of the performance of a structured facial examination and visualized this sequence subvocally before practicing the skill. Student performance was measured shortly after (T1) and five to ten weeks (T2) after the training by two blinded examiners (E1 and E2) using a validated checklist.Results: Groups did not differ in gender, age or in experience. The ‘Mental Training’ group averaged significantly more points in T1 (pE1 = 0.00012; pE2 = 0.004) and T2 (pE1 = 0.04; pE2 = 0.008) than the ‘See One, Do One’ group. The intragroup comparison showed a significant (pE1 = 0.0002; pE2 = 0.06) increase in knowledge in the ‘See One, Do One’ group, while the ‘Mental Training’ group maintained an already high level of knowledge between T1 and T2. Gender analysis showed a significant difference in favor of female students at T1 for Rater 1 (pE1 = 0.03).Discussion: ‘Mental Training’ is an efficient tool to teach and maintain basic clinical skills. In this study ‘Mental Training’ was shown to be superior to the commonly used ‘See One, Do One’ approach in learning how to perform a structured facial examination and should therefore be considered more often to teach basic surgical skills.