bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Microglia depletion prior to lipopolysaccharide and paraquat treatment differentially modulates behavioral and neuronal outcomes in wild type and G2019S LRRK2 knock-in mice.
Authors: Dwyer Zach , Rudyk Chris , Situt Divya , Beauchamp Sheryl , Abdali Jawaria , Dinesh Anu , Legancher Nathalie , Sun Hongyu , Schlossmacher Michael , Hayley Shawn
Published: December 2019

Background: Substantial data have implicated microglial-driven neuroinflammation in Parkinson’s disease (PD) and environmental toxicants have been long expected as triggers of such inflammatory processes. Of course, these environmental insults act in the context of genetic vulnerability factors and in this regard, leucine rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2), may play a prominent role.Methods: We used a double hit, lipopolysaccharide (LPS; endotoxin) followed by paraquat (pesticide toxicant) model of PD in mice with the most common LRRK2 mutation G2019S, knockin mice and wild type littermates. In order to assess the contribution of microglia, we depleted these cells (through 14 days of the CSF-1 antagonist, PLX-3397) prior to LPS and paraquat exposure.Results: We found that the G2019S mice displayed the greatest signs of behavioral pathology, but that the PLX-3397 induced microglial depletion at the time of LPS exposure diminished toxicity and weight loss and blunted the reduction in home-cage activity with subsequent paraquat exposure. However, neither the PLX-3397 pre-treatment nor the G2019S mutation affected the LPS + paraquat induced loss of substantia nigra pars compacta (SNc) dopamine neurons or elevation of circulating immune (IL-6) or stress (corticosterone) factors. Intriguingly, microglial morphological ratings were basally enhanced in G2019S mice and the PLX-3397 pre-treatment reversed this effect. Moreover, PLX-3397 pre-treatment selectively elevated soluble a-synuclein and SIRT3 levels, while reducing SNc caspase-1 and 3, along with CX3CR1. Hence, the re-populated “new” microglia following cessation of PLX-3397 clearly had an altered phenotype or were immature at the time of sacrifice (i.e. after 11 days).Conclusions: Collectively, these findings suggest that G2019S knock-in and PLX-3397 microglial depletion at the time of LPS exposure affects behavioral, but not neurodegenerative responses to subsequent environmental toxin exposure.
Artemisinin protects against sepsis-associated encephalopathy by activating the AMPK axis in the microglia
Authors: Lin Shao-Peng , Wei Jue-Xian , Ye Shan , Hu Jiasong , Bu Jingyi , Zhu Lidong , Li Qi , Liao Haojun , Wu Yi , Lin Pei-Yi , Chen Sheng-Qiang , Chen Xiao-Hui
Published: December 2019

Background and purpose: Artemisinin has been in use as an anti-malarial drug for almost half a century in the world. There is growing evidence that artemisinin also possesses potent anti-inflammatory and immunoregulatory properties. However, the efficacy of artemisinin treatment in sepsis-associated encephalopathy (SAE) remains unknown. Here, we evaluate the possible protective effects and explore the underlying mechanism of action of artemisinin on SAE. Methods: Male C57BL/6mice were pretreated with either vehicle or artemisinin, and then injected with LPS to establish an animal model of SAE. The cognitive function was then assessed using the Morris water maze. Neuronal damage and neuroinflammation in the hippocampus were evaluated by immunohistochemical analysis. Additionally, the protective mechanism of artemisinin was determined in vitro. Results: The results showed that artemisinin preconditioning attenuated LPS-induced cognitive impairment, neural damage, and microglial activation in the mouse brain. Luminex liquid chip revealed that artemisinin could inhibit the pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines induced by LPS in the BV2 microglia cells. Meanwhile, artemisinin suppressed the migratory ability of BV2 cells. Western blot demonstrated that artemisinin promoted adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinaseα1 (AMPKα1) expression and suppressed nuclear translocation of NF-κB. Furthermore, knock-down of AMPKα1 markedly abolished the anti-inflammatory effects of artemisinin when exposed to LPS. Conclusion: Artemisinin is a potential therapeutic agent for SAE, and its effect was probably mediated by the activation of AMPKα1signalling pathway in microglia.
Comparative genomic and secretomic characterisation of endophytic Bacillus velezensis LC1 producing bioethanol from bamboo lignocellulose
Authors: Tang Hao , Li Yuanqiu , Zheng Li , Lei Lu , Yang Xiaowen , Luo Chaobing
Published: December 2019

Background: Compared to physical and chemical methods, microbial lignocellulosic degradation is a green process. Bacillus is an excellent organic matter degrader, and it has exhibited various abilities required for lignocellulose degradation, including the degradation of cellulose, hemicellulose and lignin. Several B. velezensis strains encode lignocellulosases. However, their usefulness based on their ability to transform biomass has not been appreciated. Genomic, comprehensive comparative genomic and secretomic analyses were used to clarify the lignocellulose-degrading potential of these bacteria, which is necessary for their future application.Results: In the present study, the complete genomes of 20 B. velezensis strains and an endophytic bacterium, B. velezensis LC1, were analysed to find common and unique genes encoding carbohydrate-active enzymes (CAZymes) and evaluate their potentials to degrade lignocellulose. By comparative whole genomic and CAZyomic analyses of all 21 strains, we identified genes of lignocellulolytic enzymes with the potential to degrade cellulose (GH5, GH30, GH4, GH1, GH16 and GH32) and hemicellulose (GH43, GH30, GH51, GH26 and GH53). Further identification of the secretome of B. velezensis LC1 by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) confirmed that a considerable number of proteins in the culture medium are involved in lignocellulose degradation, including endoglucanase, hemicellulases, and other related proteins. Moreover, assays of the activities of several lignocellulolytic enzymes including endoglucanase, exoglucanase, β-glucosidase, xylanase, lignin peroxidase, laccase, and manganese peroxidase show that these enzymes are more active in bamboo powder compared to glucose substrates. After a 6-day treatment, the degradation efficiencies of cellulose, hemicellulose and lignin from bamboo powder were 59.90%, 75.44% and 23.41%, respectively. The hydrolysate was subjected to ethanol fermentation with Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Escherichia coli KO11, yielding 10.44 g/L ethanol after 96 h.Conclusions: These findings indicate that Bacillus velezensis strains have the potential to degrade a range of polysaccharides in lignocellulosic biomass. One strain, B. velezensis LC1, efficiently degrades bamboo lignocellulose components, allowing for subsequent ethanol production.
Long-read sequencing of Chrysanthemum morifolium cv. ‘Hangju’ transcriptome reveals flavonoid biosynthesis and regulation
Authors: Wang Tao , Yang Feng , Guo Qiaosheng , Zou Qingjun , Zhang Wenyan , Zuo Lin
Published: December 2019

Background: The inflorescence of Chrysanthemum morifolium cv. ‘Hangju’ has been widely used in China due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. The biosynthesis and regulation of flavonoids, a group of bioactive components, in C. morifolium are poorly understood. Transcriptome sequencing is an effective method for obtaining transcript information. Therefore, single-molecule real-time (SMRT) sequencing was performed to obtain the full-length genes involved in flavonoid biosynthesis and regulation in C. morifolium.
Results: High-quality RNA was extracted from the inflorescence of C. morifolium at different developmental stages and used to construct two libraries (0-5 kb and 4.5-10 kb) for sequencing. Finally, 125,532 non-redundant isoforms with a mean length of 2,009 bp were obtained. Of these, 2,083 transcripts were annotated to pathways related to flavonoid biosynthesis, and 56 isoforms were annotated as CHS, CHI, F3H, F3’H, FNS Ⅱ, FLS, DFR and ANS genes. Based on gene expression levels at different stages, we predicted the major genes involved in flavonoid biosynthesis. By phylogenetic analysis, we found two candidate MYB transcription factors (CmMYBF1 and CmMYBF2) activating flavonol biosynthesis.
Conclusions: Based on the full-length transcriptomic data and further quantitative analysis, the major genes involved in flavonoid biosynthesis and regulation in C. morifolium were predicted in our study. The results provide a valuable theoretical basis for the introduction and cultivation of C. morifolium cv. ‘Hangju’.
Nurse practitioners in Swiss family practices as potentially autonomous providers of home visits: an exploratory study
Authors: Gysin Stefan , Bischofberger Iren , Meier Rahel , Vught Anneke van , Merlo Christoph , Essig Stefan
Published: December 2019

Background Swiss primary care is challenged by impending shortages of general practitioners (GPs) in rural areas and decreasing number of GP home visits. In Anglo-Saxon and many other countries, nurse practitioners (NPs) have been implemented and provide high quality, patient-centred home visits autonomously. In Switzerland, the NP role is new and there are currently only a handful of ongoing pilot projects in family practices. Hence, studies are lacking and data collection is challenging as NPs are not yet registered providers who could be identified in billing or health insurance data. Our aims were to gain insights in the frequency of home visits by NPs in Swiss family practices, and to determine their autonomy based on the required level of GP supervision during consultations.Methods We used consultation data from two pilot practices in rural Switzerland. In “Practice A”, the NP was in postgraduate education and data was gathered electronically between August 2017 and 2018. In “Practice B”, the NP had completed her education, and had two years of work experience as a NP when data was collected manually between April and June 2018. We used a coding system based on five levels of GP supervision to identify NP consultations and home visits, and to determine the NPs’ autonomy in each consultation.Results We analysed data from 1375 consultations. The share of home visits in all NP consultations was 17% in Practice A and 51% in Practice B. Both NPs had a higher share of autonomously conducted consultations during home visits than in the office. In Practice A, the proportion of consultations in which the NP was autonomous increased from 0% in the first month of her employment to 19% after 13 months of GP supervision. In Practice B, the NP was autonomous in about three-quarters of her consultations.Conclusions After completing postgraduate education with clinical supervision by GPs, and few years of practical experience in their role, NPs can reach a relatively high degree of autonomy and might pose a potential solution to the decreasing numbers of GP home visits in Swiss primary care.
Comparison of endoscopic ultrasound-guided hepaticogastrostomy and the antegrade technique: study protocol for a prospective, multicentre, randomised controlled trial
Authors: Liao Ye , Xiao Tingyue , Sheng Shiyun , Wu Yufan , Zhang Jingjing , Wang Sheng , Liu Xiang , Sun Siyu , Guo Jintao
Published: December 2019

Background: Endoscopic ultrasound-guided biliary drainage (EUS-BD) is used after failed endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography. Based on existing studies, intrahepatic (IH) approaches are suggested to be preferred in patients with a dilated IH bile duct. Both ultrasound-guided hepaticogastrostomy (EUS-HGS) and ultrasound-guided antegrade treatment (EUS-AG) are available IH approaches for patients with an unreachable papilla. However, a direct comparison between these two approaches is lacking. Therefore, we aim to evaluate and compare the safety and efficiency of EUS-HGS and EUS-AG in patients with an unreachable papilla. Methods: This is a prospective, randomised, controlled, multicentre study. One-hundred forty-eight patients from three hospitals who met the inclusion criteria will be randomly assigned (1:1) to undergo either EUS-HGS or EUS-AG for relief of biliary obstruction. The final study follow-up is scheduled at 1 year postoperatively. The primary endpoint is to compare the safety and efficiency of EUS-HGS and EUS-AG in patients with an unreachable papilla. The secondary endpoint is the overall survival rate of patients undergoing EUS-HGS and EUS-AG. The chi-square test, Kaplan-Meier methods, the log-rank test, and Cox regression analysis will be used to analyse the data. Discussion: To our knowledge, this is the first study to compare these two EUS-BD approaches directly using a multicentre, randomized, controlled trial design. The clinical economic indexes will also be compared, as they may also affect the patient’s choice. The result may contribute to establishing a strategic guideline for choosing IH EUS-BD approaches. Trial registration: Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR), ChiCTR1900020737; registered on 15 January 2019. http://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.aspx?proj=33672
Differences in gait analysis and clinical outcome after TightRope® or screw fixation in acute syndesmosis rupture: a prospective randomized trial
Authors: Doll Julian , Waizenegger Stefan , Bruckner Thomas , Schmidmaier Gerhard , Wolf Sebastian I. , Fischer Christian
Published: December 2019

Background: Ankle sprains and fractures are most common injuries in orthopedic and trauma surgery. The concurrent occurrence of syndesmosis ruptures in these injuries represents a more complex problem, as they often remain undetected. A proper and accurate treatment of isolated injuries of the syndesmosis is necessary to avoid long-term consequences. The most popular treatment option is a static screw fixation and the newly developed dynamic TightRope® (Arthrex, Naples, FL, USA). The aim of this study is to compare gait analysis, clinical and radiographic outcome after stabilization of an acute syndesmosis rupture with either a static implant (a 3.5mm metallic screw) or a dynamic device (TightRope®). Methods: This prospective, randomized, controlled, clinical non-inferiority trial will be carried out at the Center for Orthopedics, Trauma Surgery and Spinal Cord Injury of the University Hospital Heidelberg. Full-aged patients, who suffer from an acute syndesmosis rupture and who are undergoing surgery at our trauma center will be included in our study. The patients will be randomized to the different treatment options (screw fixation or “TightRope®”). Subsequent to the surgical treatment, all patients will receive the same standardized follow-up procedures including a gait analysis and MRI of the ankle at 6 months follow-up. The primary endpoint of the study is the successful healing of the syndesmosis and biomechanical investigation with gait analysis. Discussion: The results of the gait analysis from the current study will help to impartially and reliably evaluate the clinical and biomechanical outcome of both treatment options of acute syndesmosis ruptures. We hypothesize that the dynamic fixation provides an equivalent or better biomechanical, clinical and radiographic outcome in comparison to the screw fixation. Trial registration: German Clinical Trials Register (DRKS), ID: DRKS00013562, registered on 07.12.2017.
Current Status of Periodontal Disease in Adults in Takahagi, Japan:A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Sekino Satoshi , Takahashi Ryoichi , Numabe Yukihiro , Okamoto Hiroshi
Published: December 2019

Background: To date, a few studies documented the detailed periodontal conditions of a Japanese population. It is important to know if the awareness of Japanese nationals and dentists to oral hygiene and prevention of periodontal disease have improved when compared with the past in Japan for the development of future scenarios regarding prevention. The aim of this study was to investigate the severity, prevalence, and extent of periodontal disease in the adult population of the city of Takahagi, Japan. Results were also compared with those of an epidemiological study performed in Japan in the 1980s. Methods: A total of 582 inhabitants (aged 20 to 89 years) of Takahagi were randomly sampled, answered a comprehensive questionnaire and participated in clinical examinations performed by one examiner. Results: The mean percentages of tooth surfaces harboring plaque and exhibiting BOP were 59.5 ± 24.9% and 31.1 ± 21.1%, respectively. The mean PPD and CAL were 2.5 ± 0.5 mm and 2.9 ± 1.0 mm, respectively. Compared with results of the 1980s survey, the mean percentages of plaque and bleeding on probing were lower in the current population. The mean CAL and prevalence of attachment loss of ³5 mm in some age groups were higher in the current study than in the 1980s study. There were no statistically significant differences with respect to mean probing depth between 1980s and current in all age groups. Conclusions: Periodontal disease was still prevalent in current Japanese population even though some improvement occurred. Proper public health programs therefore need to be established.
Infection with the sheep gastrointestinal nematode Teladorsagia circumcincta increases luminal pathobionts
Authors: Cortes Alba , Wills John , Su Xiaopei , Hewitt Rachel , Robertson Jack , Scotti Riccardo , Price Dan , Bartley Yvonne , McNeilly Tom , Krause Lutz , Powell Jonathan , Nisbet Alasdair , Cantacessi Cinzia
Published: December 2019

Background The multifaceted interactions between gastrointestinal (GI) helminth parasites, vertebrate host gut microbiota and the immune system are emerging as a key area of research within the field of host-parasite relationships. In spite of the plethora of data available on the impact that GI helminths exert on the composition of the gut microflora, whether alterations of microbial profiles are caused by direct parasite-bacteria interactions or, indirectly, by alterations of the GI environment (e.g. mucosal immunity), remains to be determined. Furthermore, no data is thus far available on the downstream roles that qualitative and quantitative changes in gut microbial composition play in the overall pathophysiology of parasite infection and disease. Results In this study, we investigated the fluctuations in microbiota composition and local immune microenvironment of sheep vaccinated against, and experimentally infected with, the ‘brown stomach worm’ Teladorsagia circumcincta, a parasite of worldwide socio-economic significance. We compared gut microbial profiles with those obtained from groups of unvaccinated/infected and unvaccinated/uninfected animals. We show that alterations to the gut microbial composition are associated mainly with parasite infection, and that this involves the expansion of populations of bacteria with known pro-inflammatory roles that may contribute to the immunopathology of helminth disease. Using novel quantitative approaches for the analysis of confocal microscopy-derived images we also show that gastric tissue infiltration of T cells is driven by parasitic infection rather than anti-helminth vaccination. Conclusions Teladorsagia circumcincta infection leads to an expansion of potentially pro-inflammatory gut microbial species and abomasal T cells. This data paves the way for future experiments aimed at determining the contribution of the gut flora to the pathophysiology of parasitic disease, with the ultimate aim to design and develop novel treatment/control strategies focused on preventing and/or restricting bacterial-mediated inflammation upon infection by gastrointestinal helminths.
Adaptive Evolution after Gene Duplication in Maize
Authors: Wei Bin , Liu Hanmei , Xiao Qianlin , Wang Yongbin , Zhang Junjie , Hu Yufeng , Liu Yinghong , Yu Guowu , Li Yangping , Huang Yubi
Published: December 2019

Background: Gene duplication can provide genetic basis for the evolution. The neo/sub-functionalization of redundant copies can promote plant growth and development, improve environmental adaptability, and even form new species. Methods: We systematically identified the duplication genes and their origin of maize by comprehensively utilizing methods of homologous clustering, chromosomal collinearity, Ks analysis and phylogenetic analysis. The distinction of duplicated genes was analyzed by comparing the gene structure, sequence composition, expression, and functional differentiation. Results: More than 70% of the genes in the maize genome have been found to be duplication genes, and mainly derived from the whole-genome duplication (WGD). The gene structure of the WGD genes is more complex, with rich components and long CDS. The GC content of WGD genes contributes to the bimodal distribution, indicating that a part of the duplicated gene contains abundant GC bases. The expression level of WGD genes is high and possesses tissue-specificity. The functionally differentiated duplication genes are mainly involved in the growth and stress response of maize. Conclusions: The results of this study indicate that duplication genes produced by WGD provide new adaptability to maize growth, morphogenesis, and biotic and abiotic stress resistance, which are important to the evolution of maize.
Identification and molecular characterization of mutant line deficiency in three waxy proteins of common wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)
Authors: Liu Qian , Hu Yaping , Hu Mengyun , Sun Lijing , Chen Xiyong , Li Qianying , Wang Peinan , Wang Li-an , Zhang Yingjun , Li Hui
Published: December 2019

Background: Starch is the main component of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) grain and a key factor in determining wheat processing quality. The Wx gene encodes the granule bound starch synthase I (GBSS I) and is the sole gene responsible for amylose synthesis. Results: A waxy mutant (Wx-null) was isolated by screening M3 seeds derived from 1.0% EMS mutagenized materials with I2-KI staining of endosperm starch. SDS-PAGE electrophoresis confirmed that the Wx-null line lacked all three waxy proteins. DNA sequencing revealed three SNPs and a 3-bp InDel in the first exon, and a 16-bp InDel at the junction region of the first Wx-A1 intron from the Wx-null line. Six SNPs were identified in Wx-B1 gene of Wx-null line compared to the wild-type Gao 8901, including four missense mutations. One nonsense mutation was found at position 857 in the fourth exon, which resulted in a premature stop codon. Expression levels of Wx genes were dramatically reduced in the Wx-null line. Nonsense-mediated mRNA decay (NMD) may be triggered to degrade the non-functional Wx mRNA. There were no detectable differences in granule size and morphology between Wx-null and wild-type, but the Wx-null line contained a larger proportion of B-type starch granules. The amylose content of the Wx-null line (0.22%) was remarkably lower compared to the wild-type Gao 8901 (20.82%). Total starch is also lower in the Wx-null line. Conclusions: All three waxy proteins were non-functional in the Wx-null line. NMD may be the cause for reduced expression levels of Wx genes in the Wx-null line. The Wx-null line exhibited more B-type starch granules, dramatically lower amylose content, and decreased total starch. The Wx-null line may provide a potential waxy material with high agronomic performance in wheat breeding programs.
How do older adults understand and manage distress? A qualitative study
Authors: Moult Alice , Kingstone Tom , Chew-Graham Carolyn
Published: December 2019

Background Anxiety and depression are prevalent in older adults, however, older people may be reluctant to seek medical help and may manage their own mood problems. Due to stigma, older adults are more likely to perceive and/ or recognise their mood problems as distress. Whilst previous literature has focused on how younger adults self-manage mood problems, little research has explored how older people self-manage distress. The study reported here seeks to address this gap through qualitative methods. Methods This study was approved by Keele University’s ethical review panel. Older adults who self-identified as distressed, depressed or anxious within the previous 12 months were recruited from community groups in North Staffordshire, England. Data were generated through semi-structured interviews and analysed thematically using constant comparison methods. A public and patient involvement and engagement group contributed to development of the research questions and methods, and offered their perspectives on the findings. Results Data saturation was achieved after 18 interviews. Key themes were: experiences of distress, actions taken, help-seeking from healthcare services and perceptions of treatments offered in primary care. Various forms of loss contributed to participants’ distress. Participants initiated their own self-management strategies which included: pursuing independent activities, seeking social support and attending community groups and church. Five participants reported having consulted a GP when distressed but described a lack of acceptable treatments offered. Conclusions To support older adults who are distressed, primary care healthcare professionals need to explore patients’ existing ways of managing mood problems, provide information about a range of management options and consider the use of sign-posting older adults to community resources.
General practitioners’ management of patients with psychological stress: audit results from Denmark
Authors: Lykkegaard Jesper , Prior Anders , Rosendal Marianne
Published: December 2019

Background: In western countries, psychological stress is among the most common causes of long-lasting sick leave and a frequent reason to consult the general practitioner (GP). Aims: This study aimed to investigate how GPs manage patients with psychological stress and how the management is associated with the patient´s sex, the GP’s assessment of causality, and coexisting mental disorders. Design and setting: Audit of consecutive cases in Danish general practice. Methods: The GPs used electronic medical records to fill in a registration form for each 18-65-year-old patient with whom they had had at least one consultation regarding stress during the past six months. Only patients initially on the labour market were included. Results: Fifty-six GPs (61% women) identified 785 cases. The patients’ mean age was 44 years and 69% were women. The cause of stress was considered at least partially work-related in 69% of the cases and multifactorial in a third of cases. The management included sick leave (54%), talk therapy by the GP (47%), pharmaceutical treatment (37%), and referral to a psychologist (38%). Compared to women, stress in men was less often considered work-related (RR: 0.84, CI95%: 0.77-0.92) and men were less often sick-listed (RR: 0.83 CI95%: 0.73-0.96) but were more often prescribed tranquilizers (RR: 1.72 CI95%: 1.08-2.74). Conclusions: GPs’ management of patients with stress usually involve elements of talk-therapy, sick leave, referral to psychologist, and medication. Women and men with stress are perceived of and managed differently.
The effect of a centralization procedure for extruded lateral meniscus on load distribution in porcine knee joints at different flexion angles
Authors: Kubota Rei , Koga Hideyuki , Ozeki Nobutake , Matsuda Junpei , Kohno Yuji , Mizuno Mitsuru , Hisako Hisako , Sekiya Ichiro
Published: December 2019

Background: Meniscal extrusion results in loss of the ability to resist hoop strain and biomechanical overload on the joint articular surface. A centralization technique has been developed to overcome these problems. In this study, we analyzed the biomechanics of the extruded and centralized lateral meniscus (LM) in porcine knee joints at different flexion angles. Methods: Porcine knee joints (n=8) were set in the universal tester and each knee was tested under the following states: 1) intact; 2) extrusion—meniscal extrusion was created by resecting the posterior root of the LM and posterior synovial capsule; and 3) centralization—centralization was performed by two anchors inserted in the lateral tibial plateau. Deviation distance of the meniscus, contact pressure, and contact area in the anterior LM, middle LM, posterior LM, and the contact pressure of the tibial cartilage were evaluated with an axial compressive force of 200 N at knee flexion angles of 30°, 45°, 60°, and 90°. Results: The deviation distance of LM significantly increased in extrusion but was restored to the intact status after centralization at all angles. Both the contact pressure and area significantly decreased in extrusion and were restored after centralization close to the intact status in the anterior and middle LM; in the posterior LM, however, decreased contact pressure and area were not restored after centralization. The contact pressure of the tibial cartilage increased significantly in extrusion but decreased close to the intact status after centralization. Conclusions: This centralization procedure could reduce extrusion of the LM and restore the load-distributing function of the anterior-middle LM. However, the procedure itself could not restore hoop function in cases where the defect lies in the posterior LM.
Trends in Measles Cases in Bayelsa State, Nigeria: A Five-year Review of Case-based Surveillance Data (2014- 2018).
Authors: AWORABHI NENI , Numbere Tamunowari , Balogun Mohammed Shakir , Usman Aisha , Utulu Rowland , Ebere Nkechi , Omubo Wakiente , Stow Jones , Abba Shehu , Olorukooba Abdulhakim
Published: December 2019

Measles is a vaccine preventable, highly transmissible viral infection that affects mostly children under five years. It has been ear marked for eradication and Nigeria adopted the measles elimination strategies of the World Health Organization (WHO) African region to reduce cases and deaths. This study was done to determine trends in measles cases in Bayelsa State, to describe cases in terms of person and place, identify gaps in the case-based surveillance data collection system and identify risk factors for measles infection. We carried out a secondary data analysis of measles case-based surveillance data for the period of January 2014 to December 2018 obtained in Microsoft Excel from the State Ministry of Health. Cases were defined according the World Health Organization (WHO) standard case definitions. We calculated frequencies, proportions, estimated odds ratios (OR), 95% confidence intervals (CI) and multivariate analysis. A total of 449 cases of measles were reported. There were 245(54.6%) males, the most affected age group was 1-4 years with 288(64.1%) cases. Of all cases, 289(9.35%) were confirmed and 70 (48.27%) had received at least one dose of measles vaccine. There was an all-year transmission with increased cases in the 4th quarter of the year. Yenegoa Local Government Area had the highest number of cases. Timeliness of specimen reaching the laboratory and the proportion of specimens received at the laboratory with results sent to the national level timely was below WHO recommended 80%. Predictors of measles infection were, age less than 5 years (AOR: 0.57, 95% CI: 0.36-0.91) and residing in an urban area (AOR: 1.55, 95% CI:1.02-2.34). Measles infection occurred all-year round, with children less than 5 years being more affected. Measles case-based surveillance system showed high levels of case investigation with poor data quality and poor but improving indicators. Being less than 5 years was protective of measles while living in urban areas increased risk for infection. We recommended to state government to prioritize immunization activities in the urban centers, start campaigns by 4th quarter and continue to support measles surveillance activities while the federal government to strengthen regional laboratory capacities. Measles, Surveillance, Vaccination, Nigeria, Trend, Predictors
Rural Chronic Disease Research Patterns In The United Kingdom, United States, Canada, Australia And New Zealand: A Systematic Integrative Review
Authors: Disler Rebecca , Glenister Kristen , Wright Julian
Published: December 2019

Background People living in rural and remote communities commonly experience significant health disadvantages. Geographical barriers and reduced specialist and generalist services impact access to care when compared with metropolitan context. Innovative models of care have been developed for people living with chronic diseases in rural areas with the goal of overcoming these inequities. This review aims to describe the state of knowledge regarding innovative models of care and clinical outcomes for people living with chronic disease in rural areas in developed countries where a metropolitan comparator is included. Methods An integrative systematic review was undertaken. Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) method was used to understand data on clinical outcomes for people living with chronic disease in rural compared with metropolitan contexts and their models of care in Australia, New Zealand, United States, Canada and the United Kingdom Results Literature searching revealed 620 articles published in English between 1st January 2000 and 31st March 2019. 160 were included in the review including 68 from the United States, 59 from Australia and New Zealand (5), 21 from Canada and 11 from the United Kingdom and Ireland. 53% (84) focused on cardiovascular disease; 27% (43) diabetes mellitus; 8% (12) chronic obstructive pulmonary disease; and 13% (27) chronic kidney disease. Mortality was only reported in 10% (16) of studies and only 18% (29) reported data on Indigenous populations. Conclusions This integrated review reveals that the published literature on common chronic health issues pertaining to rural and remote populations is largely descriptive. Only a small number of publications focus on mortality and comparative health outcomes from health care models in both urban and non-urban populations. Innovative service models and telehealth are together well represented in the published literature but data on health outcomes is relatively sparse. There is significant scope for further directly comparative studies detailing the effect of service delivery models on the health outcomes of urban and rural populations. We believe that such data would further knowledge in this field and help to break the deadly synergy between increased rurality and poorer outcomes for people with chronic disease.
Classification of Andrographis paniculata extracts by HPLC fingerprint analysis and chemometrics
Authors: Rafi Mohamad , Devi Anggun Fenika , Syafitri Utami Dyah , Heryanto Rudi , Suparto Irma Herawati , Amran Muhammad Bachri , Rohman Abdul , Prajogo Bambang , Lim Lee Wah
Published: December 2019

Objective: Andrographis paniculata is widely used in Indonesia traditional medicines called jamu as an antidiabetic. The concentration of some chemical compound will be related to the level of therapeutic effect of A. paniculata and the solvent concentration for extraction affects the number of extracted chemical compound. Quality control method is needed to ensure the consistency level of chemical compound in A. paniculata. High-performance liquid chromatography fingerprint analysis combined with chemometrics was used for evaluation of sambiloto extract according to different solvent extraction. In addition, determination of the andrographolide (major bioactive compound in A. paniculata) and α-glucosidase inhibition activity were also performed. Result: Fingerprint chromatogram of A. paniculata extract with different solvent concentration have similar pattern with several typical peaks appear on each extract, only differ in the peak area and intensity value. Classification of each A. paniculata extract was done by using HPLC fingerprint and principal component analysis. Based on this classification, each extract is grouped in to their respective solvent extraction. The highest andrographolide content and α-glucosidase inhibition activity were in 50% ethanol extract and the lowest were in the water extract. HPLC fingerprint analysis could be used for identification of A. paniculata extract based on solvent extraction.
DEVELOPMENT OF THE CITY PUBLIC SERVICE MODEL ON THE BASIS OF INTEGRATED TRANSPORT FLOW INDICATORS
Authors: Kablak Nataliya , Golik Jolana , Kutsyna Iryna , Kis Nadia , Vodovozov Yevgeniy , Palant Oleksii
Published: December 2019

The problem of modeling public services based on architectural and planning decisions is considered, the role of traffic in the formation of a model of city services is analyzed. An integrated criterion for the quality of public services is proposed. A method has been developed for determining segmented public services taking into account the transport areas of the city, which will make it possible to evenly disperse public service centers. The basis is a socio-planning organization, as a material-spatial system containing anthropogenic and natural components – the territory and institutions where the functional processes that take place in the urban planning environment take place. The described model has certain versatility, and is simultaneously suitable for characterizing various categories of service institutions. Thus, the task of optimizing the quality of public services in the city is reduced to a mathematical model for which, by setting the basic design criteria, the optimal result can be obtained.

On the basis of a questionnaire survey and analysis of statistical data, calculation of traffic intensity, the demand and supply of the level of public services фre studied. The structural elements of this model: population, territory, transport and service institutions, are in dialectical interaction, which is described by the mathematical model in this study. The model is based on the calculation of the minimum population in the service area, which allows to have i-th type establishments using the social potential method, as well as a graph-analytical method in determining the optimal location of service institutions in the city.

As a result of the research, a conceptual model of public services for cities is built, a layout of supermarkets in the territory of Uzhhorod and distribution of service areas of these institutions is proposed. This optimization will ensure uniform domestic servicing of the territory, optimal performance indicators of service establishments and minimum average service radii of points.
SWOT-ANALYSIS OF MODELS OF ORGANIZATION OF PROVISION OF PRIMARY HEALTH CARE IN THE UNITED TERRITORIAL COMMUNITIES
Authors: Ursol Grigorii , Skrypnyk Alexandr , Vasylenko Olha
Published: December 2019

The article analyzes the strengths, weaknesses, potential opportunities and threats in the process of forming and making appropriate management decisions to integrate health facilities into united territorial communities (UTC) infrastructure, or other options, in the process of decentralization. The basic package of new legislative and regulatory documents has been worked out, which envisages radical changes and systemic reforms, decentralization of power - transfer from the executive bodies to local self-government bodies of a considerable part of powers, resources and responsibilities. A number of reform changes have been identified, which may lead to the expected institutional, organizational and structural-functional changes of the existing public health management system in Ukraine and changes in the individual functional characteristics of the entities of this system. The differences between medical reforms in terms of administrative reform, the role of UTC in this process, in relation to a number of other European countries are considered. On this basis, possible options for the development of events in the context of territorial governance of these processes in the system of health in Ukraine have been proposed. In order to continue scientific research in this direction, the next stage of the evolution of the formation and adoption of appropriate management decisions in the UTC is to consider the cooperation of the UTC in the creation of joint infrastructure medical facilities, their governing bodies, implementation of projects of activity, financing and maintenance.
RESULTS OF ANALYSIS AND FORECASTING OF THE MAIN FINANCIAL INDICATORS OF THE HEALTH INSURANCE MARKET DEVELOPMENT IN UKRAINE
Authors: Hala Liliia
Published: December 2019

In recent years Ukraine against the background of systemic crisis trying to reform socially-oriented areas of society, including voluntary health insurance, which must combine market and social burdens. Under these conditions, an important scientific and practical research is forecasting financial indicators of domestic insurance companies.

Aim. Conducting analysis and forecasting of the basic indicators that characterize the financial state of development of the domestic health insurance market.

Materials and methods. Research materials were selected from the official websites of the National Commission which carry out state markets regulation of financial services and the League of Insurance Organizations of Ukraine for 2009–2018 years. We used historical, analytical and comparative, systematic, logical, hypothetical-deductive, mathematical and statistical methods.

Results. To forecast the financial indicators of the health insurance market in Ukraine (gross insurance premiums and payments; operations transferred to reinsurance, including non-residents; net insurance premiums and payments) for 2019–2020 years; the time interval was set from 2009 year. According to the results of the calculations, we obtained regression models for different financial indicators (6 models). With the help of the selected mathematical tools, the main financial indicators of the market development for 2019–2020 years were forecasted. The analysis of the data revealed that the highest value growth rate (%) in 2020 year will be characteristic of reinsurance operations, including those transferred to non-residents (49.06 %) and the lowest - to gross insurance payments (14,41 %).

It is established that the indicator of net insurance payments since 2010 year has been steadily decreasing (from 78.19 %), and according to the forecasted data in 2019 year it may be equal to 46.77 %, and in 2020 year – 44.98 %, the trend will continue to decrease. However, this indicator since 2016 year (53.9 %) and the data forecast for 2019–2020 years are in the regulatory range (from 30.0 % to 60.0 % for different types of insurance activities).

Conclusions. According to the results of the research, it is established that in spite of the financial and economic crisis since 2014 year, the domestic health insurance market is characterized by positive dynamics of growth of the main financial indicators (gross insurance premiums and payments, net insurance premiums and payments). At the same time, there is a tendency to decrease the level (%) of net insurance payments indicator from 78.19 % in 2010 year to the forecast in 2020 year – 44.98 %.
STUDY OF THE EFFECTIVE VISCOSITY OF GELATINIIZED STARCH DISPERSIONS, BASED ON PHYSICALLY MODIFIED STARCHES, DEPENDING ON TECHNOLOGICAL FACTORS
Authors: Andreeva Svetlana , Kolesnikova Marina , Pyvovarov Yevgen , Khaustova Tetyana , Dikhtyar Aliona
Published: December 2019

The aim of the study is to investigate rheological properties of gelatinized starch dispersions, based on physically modified starches, depending on technological factors.

Realization of the research aim allows to get products (sauces, creams, fillers for confectionary products and so on), using physically modified starches, able to realize products with given structural-mechanical parameters of quality and safety; and also to provide the rational use of raw material resources, to decrease the labor capacity of the technological process of making culinary products.

There were analyzed modern development tendencies of technologies of physically modified starches and their use in food products technologies. Generalization of literary data became a base for using these starches in food products technologies, where the first turn attention is paid to the colloid stability of food systems.

Studies of the thermal stability of gelatinized starch dispersions determined that most stable in the cycle “heating-cooling-repeated heating” are gelatinized starch dispersions, based on physically modified starch “Prima”, which effective viscosity doesn’t essentially decrease after repeated heating. In gelatinized starch dispersions, based on physically modified starch «Endura» and «Indulge», repeated heating is also accompanied by the inessential viscosity decrease. Gelatinized starch dispersions, based on corn amylopectin starch, are not thermostable, and their effective viscosity essentially decreases at repeated heating. There are established regularities of the mechanical effect on structural-mechanical properties of gelatinized starch dispersions. It has been determined, that gelatinized starch dispersions, based on physically modified starches «Prima», «Endura» and «Indulge», demonstrate stable characteristics, as opposite to native starches at the mechanical effect.

The prospects of further studies in this direction are to investigate an influence of technological factors (change of рН medium, influence of enzymes, pectin substances, mineral salts) on structural-mechanical properties of gelatinized starch dispersions, based on physically modified starches.
STUDY OF MICROBIAL POLYSACCHARIDES’ IMPACT ON ORGANOLEPTIC AND PHYSICAL-CHEMICAL PARAMETERS OF PROTEIN-FREE AND GLUTEN-FREE FLOURY PRODUCTS
Authors: Mykhaylov Valerii , Samokhvalova Olga , Kucheruk Zinoviya , Kasabova Kateryna , Simakova Olga , Goriainova Iuliia , Rogovaya Alla , Choni Inna
Published: December 2019

The aim of the study is to investigate the influence of microbial polysaccharides (MPS): xampan, enposan and gellan on quality parameters of protein-free and gluten-free floury products that will widen the assortment of stiffeners of the microbial origin in technologies of gluten-free products.

The formation of the required quality indicators of gluten-free dietary bakery and floury confectionery, which should be made without wheat flour, is difficult due to the lack of gluten. The search for effective structure-forming agents in place of gluten proteins is ongoing. Properties of microbial polysaccharides are considered and the possibility of their use for gluten-free products is investigated. The influence of microbial polysaccharides (MPS) of xanthan, enposan and gellan on the organoleptic parameters of protein-free bread, based on corn starch and gluten-free muffins, based on wheat germ meal was investigated. Their specific volume is determined. The structural-mechanical properties of bread crumbs and muffins on an automated penetrometer in terms of compressibility are determined.

It is shown, that the use of MPS in certain quantities leads to the formation of susceptible organoleptic characteristics, increases the specific volume of products and ensure the elastic structure of the baked goods. All the investigated MPS have the same character of influence on certain indicators, but the greatest effect is revealed by xanthan, the least – by gellan
Ensino de gramática:
Authors: SALES RAFAELLA Silva
Published: November 2019

O artigo resulta de uma pesquisa que analisou os saberes e as práticas mobilizadas por um professor de língua portuguesa do 9º ano do ensino fundamental ao ensinar gramática/análise linguística. Apoiamo-nos, por um lado, em discussões sobre o ensino de gramática/análise linguística e, por outro, em reflexões referentes aos saberes e às ações docentes. Trata-se de um estudo qualitativo, desenvolvido por meio do uso dos seguintes procedimentos: seção de grupo focal, observação em sala de aula e entrevistas. Os dados analisados apontaram que as ações do professor observado ao ensinar gramática parecem ter recebido influência de suas experiências como aluno da Educação Básica e de experiências vividas no exercício da ação docente, que assumiam um peso maior que os conhecimentos das novas orientações para o ensino gramática a que teve acesso. Quanto ao uso do livro didático, o professor não se sujeitava ao que era apresentado, mas produzia encaminhamentos diferentes.