bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring effectiveness of different health financing mechanisms in Nigeria; what needs to change and how can it happen?
Authors: Onwujekwe Obinna , Ezumah Nkoli , Mbachu Chinyere , Obi Felix , Ichoku Hyacinth , Uzochukwu Benjamin , Wang Hong
Published: September 2019

Background

Various attempts to examine health financing mechanisms in Nigeria highlight the fact that there is no single mechanism that fits all contexts and people. This paper sets out findings of an in-depth assessment of different health financing mechanisms in Nigeria.

Methods

The study was undertaken in the Federal Capital territory of Nigeria and two States (Niger and Kaduna). Data were collected through review of government documents, and in-depth interviews of purposively selected respondents. Data analysis was guided by a conceptual framework which draws from various approaches for assessing health financing mechanisms. Data was examined for current practices, what needs to change and how the change can happen.

Results

Health financing mechanisms in Nigeria do not operate optimally. Allocation and use of resources are neither evidence-based nor results-driven. Resources are not allocated equitably or in a manner that minimizes wastage and improves efficiency. None of the mechanisms effectively protects individuals/households from catastrophic health expenditure. Issues with social health insurance cut across legal frameworks and use of Health Maintenance Organisations (HMOs) as purchasers. The concomitant effect is that attainment of Universal Health Coverage is greatly compromised. In order to improve efficiency of health financing mechanisms, government needs to allocate more funds for purchasing health services; this spending must be based on evidence (strategic), and appropriately tracked. The legislation that established National Health Insurance Scheme should be amended such that social health insurance becomes mandatory for all citizens. Implementation of the latter should be complemented by revision of benefit package, strict oversight and regulation of HMOs.

Conclusion

In order to improve health financing in the country, legal and regulatory frameworks need to be revised. Efficient utilization of resources could be improved through strategic purchasing arrangements and strict oversight.
Immunosenescence and human vaccine immune responses
Authors: Crooke Stephen N. , Ovsyannikova Inna G. , Poland Gregory A. , Kennedy Richard B.
Published: September 2019

The age-related dysregulation and decline of the immune system—collectively termed “immunosenescence”—has been generally associated with an increased susceptibility to infectious pathogens and poor vaccine responses in older adults. While numerous studies have reported on the clinical outcomes of infected or vaccinated individuals, our understanding of the mechanisms governing the onset of immunosenescence and its effects on adaptive immunity remains incomplete. Age-dependent differences in T and B lymphocyte populations and functions have been well-defined, yet studies that demonstrate direct associations between immune cell function and clinical outcomes in older individuals are lacking. Despite these knowledge gaps, research has progressed in the development of vaccine and adjuvant formulations tailored for older adults in order to boost protective immunity and overcome immunosenescence. In this review, we will discuss the development of vaccines for older adults in light of our current understanding—or lack thereof—of the aging immune system. We highlight the functional changes that are known to occur in the adaptive immune system with age, followed by a discussion of current, clinically relevant pathogens that disproportionately affect older adults and are the central focus of vaccine research efforts for the aging population. We conclude with an outlook on personalized vaccine development for older adults and areas in need of further study in order to improve our fundamental understanding of adaptive immunosenescence.
Serum fibroblast growth factor 19 and endogenous islet beta cell function in type 2 diabetic patients
Authors: Tang Meng-jie , Su Jian‑bin , Xu Tian-li , Wang Xue‑qin , Zhang Dong-mei , Wang Xiao-hua
Published: September 2019

Background

Fibroblast growth factor 19 (FGF19) takes part in maintaining the balance of glycolipids and may be involved in regulating the secretory activity of islet beta cells in patients with type 2 diabetes. This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between the levels of serum FGF19 and endogenous islet beta cell function in type 2 diabetic patients.

Methods

Samples were obtained from 271 subjects: 85 drug-naïve type 2 diabetes participants exclusively on lifestyle intervention (N-DM group), 122 type 2 diabetes subjects previously used medications (DM group) and 64 normal controls (NC group). Serum FGF19 concentrations were measured by ELISA. The insulin sensitivity (MI), insulin secretion (AUCins/AUCglu) and insulin secretion-sensitivity index-2 (ISSI-2) were also measured in the N-DM and DM.

Results

Serum FGF19 levels decreased, in order, from the NC group [median (interquartile range), 245.03 (126.23–317.43) pg/mL] to the N-DM group [170.05 (89.01–244.70) pg/mL] and, finally, to the DM group [142.25 (55.55–187.58) pg/mL] (p for trend < 0.05). Among subjects in the DM group, there was a positive trend in the serum FGF19 concentration; plasma insulin levels at 60 min, 120 min (INS60, INS120, respectively); and area under the insulin curve (AUCins) at two points (r = 0.214, p = 0.025; r = 0.189, p = 0.048; r = 0.188, p = 0.049). However, the differences were no longer observed among the N-DM subjects. Simultaneously, the ISSI-2 was closely related to the serum FGF19 levels (r = 0.297, p = 0.002) among DM subjects. Furthermore, after adjusting for age, sex, duration, therapy and other clinical factors via multiple logistic regression analysis, ISSI-2 was a key independent factor in the levels of FGF19 (β = 0.281, t = 2.557, p = 0.013).

Conclusions

The serum FGF19 level has a close relation with endogenous beta cell function among DM subjects, as assessed by the ISSI-2. As ISSI-2 is higher in N-DM group, FGF19 may be a main protector in dysfunction of beta cell.
RNA-seq data of Ganoderma boninense at axenic culture condition and under in planta pathogen-oil palm (Elaeis guineensis Jacq.) interaction
Authors: Wong Mui Yun , Govender Nisha T. , Ong Chia Sui
Published: September 2019

Objective

Basal stem rot disease causes severe economic losses to oil palm production in South-east Asia and little is known on the pathogenicity of the pathogen, the basidiomyceteous Ganoderma boninense. Our data presented here aims to identify both the house-keeping and pathogenicity genes of G. boninense using Illumina sequencing reads.

Description

The hemibiotroph G. boninense establishes via root contact during early stage of colonization and subsequently kills the host tissue as the disease progresses. Information on the pathogenicity factors/genes that causes BSR remain poorly understood. In addition, the molecular expressions corresponding to G. boninense growth and pathogenicity are not reported. Here, six transcriptome datasets of G. boninense from two contrasting conditions (three biological replicates per condition) are presented. The first datasets, collected from a 7-day-old axenic condition provide an insight onto genes responsible for sustenance, growth and development of G. boninense while datasets of the infecting G. boninense collected from oil palm-G. boninense pathosystem (in planta condition) at 1 month post-inoculation offer a comprehensive avenue to understand G. boninense pathogenesis and infection especially in regard to molecular mechanisms and pathways. Raw sequences deposited in Sequence Read Archive (SRA) are available at NCBI SRA portal with PRJNA514399, bioproject ID.
Study on coloring method of airport flight-gate allocation problem
Authors: Li Hongyan , Ding Xianfeng , Lin Jiang , Zhou Jingyu
Published: September 2019

With the development of economy, more and more people travel by plane. Many airports have added satellite halls to relieve the pressure of insufficient boarding gates in airport terminals. However, the addition of satellite halls will have a certain impact on connecting flights of transit passengers and increase the difficulty of reasonable allocation of flight and gate in airports. Based on the requirements and data of question F of the 2018 postgraduate mathematical contest in modeling, this paper studies the flight-gate allocation of additional satellite halls at airports. Firstly, match the seven types of flights with the ten types of gates. Secondly, considering the number of gates used and the least number of flights not allocated to the gate, and adding the two factors of the overall tension of passengers and the minimum number of passengers who failed to transfer, the multi-objective 0–1 programming model was established. Determine the weight vector $w=(0.112,0.097,0.496,0.395)$
w
=
(
0.112
,
0.097
,
0.496
,
0.395
)
of objective function by entropy value method based on personal preference, then the multi-objective 0–1 programming model is transformed into single-objective 0–1 programming model. Finally, a graph coloring algorithm based on parameter adjustment is used to solve the transformed model. The concept of time slice was used to determine the set of time conflicts of flight slots, and the vertex sequences were colored by applying the principle of “first come first serve”. Applying the model and algorithm proposed in this paper, it can be obtained that the average value of the overall tension degree of passengers minimized in question F is 35.179%, the number of flights successfully allocated to the gate maximized is 262, and the number of gates used is minimized to be 60. The corresponding flight-gate difficulty allocation weight is $\alpha =0.32$
α
=
0.32
and $\beta =0.40$
β
=
0.40
, and the proportion of flights successfully assigned to the gate is 86.469%. The number of passengers who failed to transfer was 642, with a failure rate of 23.337%.
Adherence to antihypertensive medication in Russia: a scoping review of studies on levels, determinants and intervention strategies published between 2000 and 2017
Authors: Bochkareva Elena Viktorovna , Butina Ekaterina Kronidovna , Kim Irina Vitalievna , Kontsevaya Anna Vasilievna , Drapkina Oxana Mikhailovna , Leon David , McKee Martin
Published: September 2019

Background

Arterial hypertension (HT) is common in the Russian adult population, with half of affected individuals inadequately controlled. Low adherence to medication seems likely to be a factor. We report a scoping review of studies on adherence to antihypertensive therapy (AHT) in Russia to determine the extent of research undertaken, the frequency of adherence among adults diagnosed with HT, methodologies used in the studies, and their ability to describe determinants of adherence.

Methods

A scoping review of published studies that have assessed adherence to AHT in Russian HT patients searched the main Russian and international electronic databases eLIBRARY.ru, Russian Medicine, Embase, MEDLINE for full-text reports published in the Russian language between 2000 and 2017. The last search was on November 28, 2017. Among 520 reports identified, 31 were included in the review.

Results

Eighteen studies assessed adherence using the 4-item Morisky Medication Adherence Scale (MMAS-4); others used bespoke questionnaires or pill counts. 25 studies assessed levels of adherence, 11 examined its determinants, and 18 examined intervention strategies. The proportion of “adherent” patients varied from 11 to 44% using the MMAS-4, from 23 to 74% when using bespoke questionnaires, and from 5 to 43% when using pill counts. Adherence was associated with sociodemographic factors, access to free drugs provided through the Medicine Assistance Scheme (MAS), use of home blood pressure (BP) monitoring, anxiety, and comorbidity. There was no evidence that adherence was associated with income or physical activity. Evidence of an association between MAS, grade of HT, or experience of hypertensive crisis was inconclusive. Various methods to improve adherence were studied including patient education (improved from 1.8 to 3.9 points,p = 0.0002 or 2.80 to 3.79 points,p < 0.0001 measured by the MMAS-4), telephone reminders (p < 0.0001), training in home BP monitoring (p < 0.05), and use of fixed-dose combinations (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

The main determinants of adherence to AHT are sociodemographic characteristics, the severity of HT, and presence of comorbidity. Patient education and use of fixed-dose combinations of drugs were identified as most important for improving adherence. Most studies assessing adherence use self-reported methods so there is a need for greater use of objective methods.

Trial registration

This scoping review has not been registered.
Antibiotic prescribing in general medical and surgical specialties: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Charani E. , de Barra E. , Rawson T. M. , Gill D. , Gilchrist M. , Naylor N. R. , Holmes A. H.
Published: September 2019

Background

Qualitative work has described the differences in prescribing practice across medical and surgical specialties. This study aimed to understand if specialty impacts quantitative measures of prescribing practice.

Methods

We prospectively analysed the antibiotic prescribing across general medical and surgical teams for acutely admitted patients. Over a 12-month period (June 2016 – May 2017) 659 patients (362 medical, 297 surgical) were followed for the duration of their hospital stay. Antibiotic prescribing across these cohorts was assessed using Chi-squared or Wilcoxon rank-sum, depending on normality of data. The t-test was used to compare age and length of stay. A logistic regression model was used to predict escalation of antibiotic therapy.

Results

Surgical patients were younger (p < 0.001) with lower Charlson Comorbidity Index scores (p < 0.001). Antibiotics were prescribed for 45% (162/362) medical and 55% (164/297) surgical patients. Microbiological results were available for 26% (42/164) medical and 29% (48/162) surgical patients, of which 55% (23/42) and 48% (23/48) were positive respectively. There was no difference in the spectrum of antibiotics prescribed between surgery and medicine (p = 0.507). In surgery antibiotics were 1) prescribed more frequently (p = 0.001); 2) for longer (p = 0.016); 3) more likely to be escalated (p = 0.004); 4) less likely to be compliant with local policy (p < 0.001) than medicine.

Conclusions

Across both specialties, microbiology investigation results are not adequately used to diagnose infections and optimise their management. There is significant variation in antibiotic decision-making (including escalation patterns) between general surgical and medical teams. Antibiotic stewardship interventions targeting surgical specialties need to go beyond surgical prophylaxis. It is critical to focus on of review the patients initiated on therapeutic antibiotics in surgical specialties to ensure that escalation and continuation of therapy is justified.
Competition and bank profitability
Authors: Yuanita Nuraini
Published: September 2019

By issuing Indonesian Banking Architecture in 2004, the central bank of Indonesia has encouraged banking sector to consolidate. The aim of merger among others is to increase bank economies of scale. This study tries to look at the impact of merger bank on the bank performance by implementing structure conduct and performance hypothesis. Merger bank affects market structure. According to structure conduct and performance hypothesis, market structure affects bank behavior as well as bank performance. The result of this study suggests that an increase in market concentration causes a decrease in price. It shows that merger increase economies of scale so that bank can offer lower price. A decrease in price brings down bank profitability. Concentration ratio also can be used as competition measurement. It is known as a structural measure of competition. Using the structural measure, a lower competition that is shown by higher concentration ratio is associated with lower profitability. This research also analyses the relationship between competition and bank profitability using Lerner index as a non-structural measure of competition. The non-structural measure of competition shows that lower competition is associated with higher profitability. Hence, the structural measure of competition creates different result from the non-structural measure of competition.
A comprehensive assessment of demographic, environmental, and host genetic associations with gut microbiome diversity in healthy individuals
Authors:   The Milieu Intérieur Consortium, Scepanovic Petar , Hodel Flavia , Mondot Stanislas , Partula Valentin , Byrd Allyson , Hammer Christian , Alanio Cécile , Bergstedt Jacob , Patin Etienne , Touvier Mathilde , Lantz Olivier , Albert Matthew L. , Duffy Darragh , Quintana-Murci Lluis , Fellay Jacques
Published: September 2019

Background

The gut microbiome is an important determinant of human health. Its composition has been shown to be influenced by multiple environmental factors and likely by host genetic variation. In the framework of the Milieu Intérieur Consortium, a total of 1000 healthy individuals of western European ancestry, with a 1:1 sex ratio and evenly stratified across five decades of life (age 20–69), were recruited. We generated 16S ribosomal RNA profiles from stool samples for 858 participants. We investigated genetic and non-genetic factors that contribute to individual differences in fecal microbiome composition.

Results

Among 110 demographic, clinical, and environmental factors, 11 were identified as significantly correlated with α-diversity, ß-diversity, or abundance of specific microbial communities in multivariable models. Age and blood alanine aminotransferase levels showed the strongest associations with microbiome diversity. In total, all non-genetic factors explained 16.4% of the variance. We then searched for associations between > 5 million single nucleotide polymorphisms and the same indicators of fecal microbiome diversity, including the significant non-genetic factors as covariates. No genome-wide significant associations were identified after correction for multiple testing. A small fraction of previously reported associations between human genetic variants and specific taxa could be replicated in our cohort, while no replication was observed for any of the diversity metrics.

Conclusion

In a well-characterized cohort of healthy individuals, we identified several non-genetic variables associated with fecal microbiome diversity. In contrast, host genetics only had a negligible influence. Demographic and environmental factors are thus the main contributors to fecal microbiome composition in healthy individuals.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier NCT01699893
Process evaluation of text-based support for fathers during the transition to fatherhood (SMS4dads): mechanisms of impact
Authors: Fletcher Richard , Knight Tess , Macdonald Jacqui A. , StGeorge Jennifer
Published: September 2019

Background

There is growing evidence for the value of technology-based programs to support fathers to make positive transitions across the perinatal period. However, past research has focused on program outcomes with little attention to the mechanisms of impact. Knowledge of why a program works increases potential for replication across contexts.

Methods

Participants were 40 Australian fathers enrolled in the SMS4dads text-based perinatal support program (Mean age 35.11 (5.87). From a starting point between 16 weeks gestation and 12 weeks postpartum, they were sent a maximum of 184 text messages. An inductive approach was used to analyse post-program semi-structured interviews. The aim was to identify mechanisms of impact aligned to previously identified program outcomes, which were that SMS4dads: 1) is helpful/useful; 2) lessens a sense of isolation; 3) promotes the father-infant relationship; and 4) supports the father-partner relationship.

Results

We identified two types of mechanisms: four were structural within the program messages and five were psychological within the participant. The structural mechanisms included: syncing information to needs; normalisation; prompts to interact; and, the provision of a safety net. The psychological mechanisms were: increase in knowledge; feelings of confidence; ability to cope; role orientation; and, the feeling of being connected. These mechanisms interacted with each other to produce the pre-identified program outcomes.

Conclusions

If the current findings are generalisable then, future mobile health program design and evaluation would benefit from explicit consideration to how both program components and individual cognitive and behavioural processes combine to elicit targeted outcomes.
A probabilistic geologic model of the Krafla geothermal system constrained by gravimetric data
Authors: Scott Samuel W. , Covell Cari , Júlíusson Egill , Valfells Águst , Newson Juliet , Hrafnkelsson Birgir , Pálsson Halldór , Gudjónsdóttir María
Published: September 2019

The quantitative connections between subsurface geologic structure and measured geophysical data allow 3D geologic models to be tested against measurements and geophysical anomalies to be interpreted in terms of geologic structure. Using a Bayesian framework, geophysical inversions are constrained by prior information in the form of a reference geologic model and probability density functions (pdfs) describing petrophysical properties of the different lithologic units. However, it is challenging to select the probabilistic weights and the structure of the prior model in such a way that the inversion process retains relevant geologic insights from the prior while also exploring the full range of plausible subsurface models. In this study, we investigate how the uncertainty of the prior (expressed using probabilistic constraints on commonality and shape) controls the inferred lithologic and mass density structure obtained by probabilistic inversion of gravimetric data measured at the Krafla geothermal system. We combine a reference prior geologic model with statistics for rock properties (grain density and porosity) in a Bayesian inference framework implemented in the GeoModeller software package. Posterior probability distributions for the inferred lithologic structure, mass density distribution, and uncertainty quantification metrics depend on the assumed geologic constraints and measurement error. As the uncertainty of the reference prior geologic model increases, the posterior lithologic structure deviates from the reference prior model in areas where it may be most likely to be inconsistent with the observed gravity data and may need to be revised. In Krafla, the strength of the gravity field reflects variations in the thickness of hyaloclastite and the depth to high-density basement intrusions. Moreover, the posterior results suggest that a WNW–ESE-oriented gravity low that transects the caldera may be associated with a zone of low hyaloclastite density. This study underscores the importance of reliable prior constraints on lithologic structure and rock properties during Bayesian geophysical inversion.
Hepatic Gluconeogenic Response to Single and Long-Term SGLT2 Inhibition in Lean/Obese Male Hepatic G6pc-Reporter Mice
Authors: Inaba Yuka , Hashiuchi Emi , Watanabe Hitoshi , Kimura Kumi , Sato Makoto , Kobayashi Masaki , Matsumoto Michihiro , Kitamura Tadahiro , Kasuga Masato , Inoue Hiroshi
Published: September 2019

Sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitor (SGLT2i) consistently reduces blood glucose levels in type 2 diabetes mellitus but increases hepatic gluconeogenic gene expression and glucose production, offsetting its glucose-lowering effect. This study aimed to elucidate the effect of SGLT2i on hepatic gluconeogenic response and its mechanism in both insulin-sensitive and insulin-resistant states. A hepatic mouse model was generated to show liver-specific expression of Gaussia luciferase (GLuc) driven by the gluconeogenic enzyme gene G6pc promoter. Hepatic gluconeogenic response was evaluated by measuring plasma GLuc activity. SGLT2i was given to lean and obese mice in single gavage administration or 4-week dietary administration with controlled feeding every 3 hours. In lean mice, single-dose SGLT2i increased plasma GLuc activity from 2 hours after administration, decreasing blood glucose and plasma insulin from 1 to 2 hours after administration. In obese mice, which had higher plasma GLuc activity than lean ones, SGLT2i did not further increase GLuc activity despite decreased blood glucose and plasma insulin. Hepatic Akt and GSK3β phosphorylation was attenuated by single-dose SGLT2i in lean mice in accordance with the plasma insulin decrease, but not in obese mice. Long-term SGLT2i administration, which increased plasma GLuc activity in lean mice, decreased it in obese mice from 3 weeks after initiation, with increased hepatic Akt and GSK3β phosphorylation. In conclusion, single SGLT2i administration increases hepatic gluconeogenic response in lean insulin-sensitive mice, but not in obese insulin-resistant mice. Long-term SGLT2i administration relieves obesity-induced upregulation of the hepatic gluconeogenic response by restoring impeded hepatic insulin signaling in obese insulin-resistant mice.
A novel self-organizing embryonic stem cell system reveals signaling logic underlying the patterning of human ectoderm
Authors: Britton George , Heemskerk Idse , Hodge Rachel , Qutub Amina A. , Warmflash Aryeh
Published: September 2019

During development, the ectoderm is patterned by a combination of BMP and WNT signaling. Research in model organisms has provided substantial insight into this process, however, there are currently no systems to study ectodermal patterning in humans. Further, the complexity of neural plate border specification has made it difficult to transition from discovering the genes involved to deeper mechanistic understanding. Here, we develop an in vitro model of human ectodermal patterning, in which hESCs self-organize to form robust and quantitatively reproducible patterns corresponding to the complete medial-lateral axis of the embryonic ectoderm. Using this platform, we show that the duration of endogenous WNT signaling is a crucial control parameter, and that cells sense relative levels of BMP and WNT signaling in making fate decisions. These insights allowed us to develop an improved protocol for placodal differentiation. Thus, our platform is a powerful tool for studying human ectoderm patterning and for improving directed differentiation protocols.
Mechanical stress induces a scalable switch in cortical flow polarization during cytokinesis
Authors: Singh Deepika , Odedra Devang , Dutta Priyanka , Pohl Christian
Published: September 2019

During animal development, cells need to sense and adapt to mechanical forces from their environment. Ultimately, these forces are transduced through the actomyosin cortex. How the cortex simultaneously responds to and creates forces during cytokinesis is not well understood. Here we show that, under mechanical stress, cortical actomyosin flow can switch polarization during cytokinesis in the C. elegans embryo. In unstressed embryos, longitudinal cortical flow contributes to contractile ring formation, while rotational cortical flow is additionally induced in uniaxially loaded embryos, i.e. embryos compressed between two plates. Rotational flow depends on astral microtubule signals and is required for the redistribution of the actomyosin cortex in loaded embryos. Rupture of longitudinally aligned cortical fibers during cortex rotation releases tension, initiates orthogonal longitudinal flow and, thereby, contributes to furrowing in loaded embryos. Moreover, actomyosin regulators involved in RhoA regulation, cortical polarity and chirality are all required for rotational flow, and become essential for cytokinesis under mechanical stress. In sum, our findings extend the current framework of mechanical stress response during cell division and show scaling of orthogonal cortical flows to the amount of mechanical stress.
Cyclin-dependent kinase 1-mediated AMPK phosphorylation regulates chromosome alignment and mitotic progression
Authors: Stauffer Seth , Zeng Yongji , Santos Montserrat , Zhou Jiuli , Chen Yuanhong , Dong Jixin
Published: September 2019

AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), a heterotrimeric serine/threonine kinase and cellular metabolic sensor, has been found to regulate cell cycle checkpoints in cancer cells in response to energetic stress, to harmonize proliferation with energy availability. Despite AMPK's emergent association with the cell cycle, it still has not been fully delineated how AMPK is regulated by upstream signaling pathways during mitosis. We report, for the first time, direct CDK1 phosphorylation of both the catalytic α1 and α2 subunits, as well as the β1 regulatory subunit, of AMPK in mitosis. We found that AMPK-knockout U2OS osteosarcoma cells have reduced mitotic indexes and that CDK1 phosphorylation-null AMPK is unable to rescue the phenotype, demonstrating a role for CDK1 regulation of mitotic entry through AMPK. Our results also denote a vital role for AMPK in promoting proper chromosomal alignment, as loss of AMPK activity leads to misaligned chromosomes and concomitant metaphase delay. Importantly, AMPK expression and activity was found to be critical for paclitaxel chemosensitivity in breast cancer cells and positively correlated with relapse-free survival in systemically treated breast cancer patients.
Crystal and Electronic Structures of MgCo2−xMnxO4 as Cathode Material for Magnesium Secondary Batteries Using First-Principles Calculations and Quantum Beam Measurements
Authors: Ishibashi Chiaki , Mizutani Yusuke , Ishida Naoya , Kitamura Naoto , Idemoto Yasushi
Published: September 2019

The stable structure of the spinels MgCo2O4 and MgCo1.5Mn0.5O4, as Mg secondary battery cathode materials, was investigated by first-principles calculations. The calculated stable structures were compared with the crystal structures obtained by quantum beam measurements. The effect on the electronic structure of the substitution of Mn in MgCo2O4 was examined. Pair distribution function fitting of the normal spinel of MgCo1.5Mn0.5O4 gave a better agreement with experiments than that of MgCo2O4. It was found that Mg/Co cation mixing decreased by the substitution of Mn, as found for the Rietveld analysis of the synchrotron X-ray diffraction. From electron density analysis, it was expected that the Mn-O6 octahedra were more stable than the Co-O6 octahedra because Mn is more attracted to an O atom than a Co atom, that is, the Mn-O bond was stronger than the Co-O bond. The Mg in MgCo1.5Mn0.5O4 was more easily inserted and moved than in MgCo2O4 because the Mg-O bonds near Mn became weak. This fact is consistent with the fact that the first discharge capacity and cycling performance of MgCo1.5Mn0.5O4 were improved over those of MgCo2O4 in charge and discharge tests.
Conserved structure of the NPR1 gene distal promoter isolated from a chili pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) in West Sumatera
Authors: Jamsari Jamsari , Oktavioni Maythesya , Nova Bastian , Candra Ifan Aulia , Asben Alfi , Syukriani Lily
Published: September 2019

Background: The non-expressor of pathogenesis related gene 1 (NPR1) protein is one of the key regulators in the systemic acquired resistance plant defense system. The cis-acting elements of its distal promoter gene are characterized by salicylic acid inducing elements such as the W-box, RAV1AAT and ASF1, accompanied by enhancer and silencer elements. This study was aimed to isolate and characterize the distal promoter sequence of the NPR1 gene (PD_CbNPR1) from the chili pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) genotype Berangkai, a local genotype known to produce large yields, but is susceptible to viral infection. Elucidating its sequence structure will open a broad range of possibilities to engineer the NPR1 gene expression which is important to improve chili pepper resistant.

Methods: PCR-based cloning combined with a primer walking strategy was applied in this study. The BioEdit tool was used to edit the sequence and verify sequence integrity, while homology analysis was conducted with BLASTn searching. Identification of a cis-acting element was detected by PLACE, PlantCare, and PlantPAN.

Results: Isolation of the complete distal promoter sequence of PD_CbNPR1 produced a fragment 5,950 bp in size. BLASTn search analysis indicated that PD_CbNPR1 sequence is highly conserved (99% identity) showing only a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) (base substitution) compared with its reference sequence. Analysis using PLACE tools successfully identified nine cis-acting elements containing a W-box, WLE1, RAV1AAT, TATA-box, CAAT-box, GARE and GT1 with multi repeats and diverse motives, as well as enhancer and silencer elements, which is characterized by a CCAAT-box and GAGAAATT pattern, respectively.

Conclusion: The distal promoter of the NPR1 gene is highly conserved, showing only one SNP caused by one base substitution event.
Adaptation, fitness landscape learning and fast evolution
Authors: Reinitz John , Vakulenko Sergey , Grigoriev Dmitri , Weber Andreas
Published: September 2019

We consider evolution of a large population, where fitness of each organism is defined by many phenotypical traits. These traits result from expression of many genes. Under some assumptions on  fitness we prove that such model organisms  are capable, to some extent, to recognize the fitness landscape. That fitness landscape learning sharply reduces the number of mutations needed for adaptation. Moreover, this learning increases phenotype robustness with respect to mutations, i.e., canalizes the phenotype.  We show that learning and canalization work only when evolution is gradual. Organisms can be adapted to  many constraints associated with a hard environment, if that environment becomes harder step by step. Our results explain why evolution can involve genetic changes of a relatively large effect and why the total number of changes are surprisingly small.
Recent advances in understanding the role of phasic dopamine activity
Authors: Schultz Wolfram
Published: September 2019

The latest animal neurophysiology has revealed that the dopamine reward prediction error signal drives neuronal learning in addition to behavioral learning and reflects subjective reward representations beyond explicit contingency. The signal complies with formal economic concepts and functions in real-world consumer choice and social interaction. An early response component is influenced by physical impact, reward environment, and novelty but does not fully code prediction error. Some dopamine neurons are activated by aversive stimuli, which may reflect physical stimulus impact or true aversiveness, but they do not seem to code general negative value or aversive prediction error. The reward prediction error signal is complemented by distinct, heterogeneous, smaller and slower changes reflecting sensory and motor contributors to behavioral activation, such as substantial movement (as opposed to precise motor control), reward expectation, spatial choice, vigor, and motivation. The different dopamine signals seem to defy a simple unifying concept and should be distinguished to better understand phasic dopamine functions.
Costs and consequences of the Family Nurse Partnership (FNP) programme in England: evidence from the Building Blocks trial
Authors: Bell Kerry , Corbacho Belen , Ronaldson Sarah , Richardson Gerry , Hood Kerry , Sanders Julia , Robling Michael , Torgerson David J. ,   Building Blocks Trial Group
Published: September 2019

Background:The Family Nurse Partnership (FNP) is a licensed intensive home visiting intervention programme delivered to teenage mothers which was originally introduced in England in 2006 by the Department of Health and is now provided through local commissioning of public health services and supported by a national unit led by a consortium of partners. The Building Blocks (BB) trial aimed to explore the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of this programme. This paper reports the results of an economic evaluation of the Building Blocks randomised controlled trial (RCT) based on a cost-consequence approach.

Methods: A large sample of 1618 families was followed-up at various intervals during pregnancy and for two years after birth. A cost-consequence approach was taken to appraise the full range of costs arising from the intervention including both health and social measures of cost alongside the consequences of the trial, specifically, the primary outcomes.

Results: A large number of potential factors were identified that are likely to attract additional costs beyond the implementation costs of the intervention including both health and non-health outcomes.

Conclusion: Given the extensive costs and only small beneficial consequences observed within the two year follow-up period, the cost-consequence model suggests that the FNP intervention is unlikely to be worth the substantial costs and policy makers may wish to consider other options for investment.

Trial registration:ISRCTN23019866(20/04/2009)
Stress urinary incontinence in relation to pelvic floor muscle strength and associated factors in the third trimester of pregnancy: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Yunita Astrid , Priyatini Tyas
Published: September 2019

Background: Many predictors of stress urinary incontinence (SUI) during pregnancy have been investigated. However, no studies have specifically identified a cutoff for pelvic floor muscle (PFM) strength and associated factors that could predict SUI during pregnancy. The aim of this study was to identify the cutoff between PFM strength and SUI, late in the third trimester of pregnancy and associated factors in Indonesian women.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 142 women with a pregnancy of 36–40 weeks of gestational age at the Obstetrics and Gynecology clinic of Tebet Subdistrict Hospital, Jakarta, Indonesia. The data were collected through a medical interview, Questionnaire for Urinary Incontinence Diagnosis, physical examination, perineometer, and cough test.

Results: SUI was identified in 54.2% of the 142 women. PFM strength 25.5 cmH2O and estimated fetal weight (EFW) ³3,100 g were the factors with the greatest influence on SUI (odds ratio (OR) = 2.52, p = 0.021, and OR = 3.34, p = 0.001, respectively). For women with PFM strength £25.5 cmH2O and EFW ³3,100 g, the prediction for SUI was ~75.39%.

Conclusion: Weakening of the PFMs and EFW influence SUI. The cutoff values identified for both variables may be helpful for predicting SUI late in pregnancy.
Assessment of Informal Economy of Small Villages of the Republic of Khakasia
Authors: Субракова Людмила , Subrakova Ludmila
Published: September 2019

The informal economy is becoming more and more noticeable fact in the modern world. The study of the informal economy in developing and developed countries, in urban and rural areas, has broadened the understanding of this multifaceted phenomenon. But the informal economy of small villages remains unexplored. Small villages of the Republic of Khakassia were threatened with extinction due to low incomes, unemployment and lack of social infrastructure. Therefore, since 2013 the state programs for the preservation and development of small villages were started in the region, providing for the repair of roads and houses, the creation of improvement facilities, assistance to consumer cooperation. The economic activity of the inhabitants of small villages remains largely informal, but its volume was not estimated either by statistical observation or monitoring of the employment service. The purpose of this article is to assess the informal economy of small villages of the Republic of Khakassia as a potential for their development. To this end, the author proposes an estimation method based on official statistics and the state employment service using the balance method, modeling employment, determining the volume of the informal economy on the basis of gross value added. The realization of this potential is impossible without the support of households and entrepreneurship of small villages by the state and municipal authorities of the Republic of Khakassia. The article concluded that the growth rate of the informal economy of small villages in Khakassia converged with the regional economy growth rates, and the volume is comparable to the revenues of the municipal budget of one district. It is noted that the Republican program of preservation and development of small villages, aimed at maintaining their social sphere, had a positive impact on economic development, including the informal economy.
Setting up a nurse-led bowel ‘two week wait’ service
Authors: Bromley Rachael , Cock Karen
Published: September 2019

Patients who present to their GP with ‘red flag’ symptoms for possible bowel cancer (such as change in bowel habit or rectal bleeding) are urgently referred to an acute trust as a ‘2 week wait’ (2WW) patient and require assessment and investigation in an efficient and timely manner. The burden that is created by ever increasing numbers of referrals requires a service that is reliable and flexible in meeting demand. This article presents the development of a nurse-led 2WW service that was implemented as a direct result of this pressure. The development of the national guideline is discussed and the rationale for a nurse-led service is provided, along with the processes followed to ensure patient safety. The inclusion of a telephone side to service provision is also examined and the challenges faced by the team are discussed.
Sexual function after stoma formation in women with colorectal cancer
Authors: Tripaldi Ciara
Published: September 2019

Background:

stoma formation is performed on many women with colorectal cancer. The physical effects of this are well known and explained to patients by health professionals. Stoma formation also affects sexual function for a variety of emotional and physical reasons, but this appears to be inadequately discussed.

Aim:

this literature review examined women's experience of sexual function after stoma formation.

Method:

five electronic databases were searched for peer-reviewed studies in the English language. Ancestry searches were also performed on the reference lists of the literature identified in this search.

Findings:

three themes emerged from the review: bodily disturbance; intimate relationships; and devaluation of sexuality. Body image is significantly disturbed by stoma formation, affecting self-esteem and satisfaction with the self. Altered bodily function, with odour and sounds from the stoma bag, is distressing to women. Women find a stoma difficult to accept, and partners'/husbands' acceptance of it has a large impact on how they feel about themselves. Sexual function is commonly overlooked in clinical settings, with health professionals prioritising physical and mental health over sexuality.

Conclusions:

stoma formation commonly has negative effects on women's sexual function and these should be more thoroughly addressed in healthcare settings. All the publications the author found examined heterosexual relationships and the experience of homosexual women should be studied.
Consistency of Quaternion Matrix Equations $AX^{\star}-XB=C$ and $X-AX^\star B=C$
Authors: Liu Xin , Wang QingWen , Zhang Yang
Published: September 2019

For a given ordered units triple $\{q_1, q_2, q_3\}$, the solutions to the quaternion matrix equations $AX^{\star}-XB=C$ and $X-AX^{\star}B=C$, $X^{\star} \in \{ X , X^{\eta} , X^* , X^{\eta*}\}$, where $X^*$ is the conjugate transpose of $X$, $X^{\eta}=-\eta X \eta$ and $X^{\eta*}=-\eta X^* \eta$, $\eta \in \{q_1, q_2, q_3\}$, are discussed. Some new real representations of quaternion matrices are used, which enable one to convert $\eta$-conjugate (transpose) matrix equations into some real matrix equations. By using this idea, conditions for the existence and uniqueness of solutions to the above quaternion matrix equations are derived. Also, methods to construct the solutions from some related real matrix equations are presented.
Bactericidal and virucidal efficacies of food additive grade calcium hydroxide under various concentrations, organic material conditions, exposure duration, and its stability
Authors: Ruenphet Sakchai , Paditporn Kornkamon , Punyadarsaniya Darsaniya , Jantafong Tippawan , Takehara Kazuaki
Published: September 2019

Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the bactericidal and virucidal activity of food additive grade calcium hydroxide (FdCa(OH)2) under various concentrations, organic material conditions, and exposure duration including its stability. Materials and Methods: The FdCa(OH)2 powder as well as the 0.17% and 3% solutions were evaluated for bacteria and virus inactivating efficacies against Salmonella infantis (SI), Escherichia coli, Newcastle disease virus (NDV), and avian influenza virus (AIV), in the absence or presence of organic materials. In addition, the stability of FdCa(OH)2, was also examined using wet-dry conditions and under sunlight. Results: The FdCa(OH)2 powder could inactivate both NDV and AIV in the absence and presence of organic materials within a 3 min exposure period. The bactericidal efficacy using solution form revealed that 0.17% and 3% of FdCa(OH)2 could inactivate SI in the absence and presence of organic materials within 3 min of exposure. However, 3% of FdCa(OH)2 inactivated E. coli both with and without organic materials within 3min, while 0.17% required 5 min to be efficacious. The virucidal efficacy also showed that 0.17% FdCa(OH)2 could inactivate NDV in the absence and presence of organic materials within 10 min and 30 min, respectively. However, AIV inactivation was achieved within 30 sec under all conditions. In addition, under wet and dry conditions, FdCa(OH)2 powder demonstrated high efficacy when re-suspended at least 16 times for NDV and 7 times for AIV. Simultaneously, the FdCa(OH)2 powder retained its efficacy under the sunlight during up to 4 months for NDV and at least 6 months for AIV. Conclusion: The present study indicates that FdCa(OH)2 powder and solutions could inactivate SI, E. coli, NDV, and AIV while retaining good stability under challenging environmental conditions. Finally, the FdCa(OH)2 is safe for consumers because it is of food additive grade and can be useful as an alternative disinfectant, especially for biosecurity enhancement on and around poultry farms.