bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Nutraceutical Bioavailability Classification Scheme: Classifying Nutraceuticals According to Factors Limiting their Oral Bioavailability
Authors: McClements David Julian , Li Fang , Xiao Hang
Published: February 2015

The oral bioavailability of a health-promoting dietary component (nutraceutical) may be limited by various physicochemical and physiological phenomena: liberation from food matrices, solubility in gastrointestinal fluids, interaction with gastrointestinal components, chemical degradation or metabolism, and epithelium cell permeability. Nutraceutical bioavailability can therefore be improved by designing food matrices that control their bioaccessibility (B*), absorption (A*), and transformation (T*) within the gastrointestinal tract (GIT). This article reviews the major factors influencing the gastrointestinal fate of nutraceuticals, and then uses this information to develop a new scheme to classify the major factors limiting nutraceutical bioavailability: the nutraceutical bioavailability classification scheme (NuBACS). This new scheme is analogous to the biopharmaceutical classification scheme (BCS) used by the pharmaceutical industry to classify drug bioavailability, but it contains additional factors important for understanding nutraceutical bioavailability in foods. The article also highlights potential strategies for increasing the oral bioavailability of nutraceuticals based on their NuBACS designation (B*A*T*).
Molecular Mechanisms in Genetically Defined Autoinflammatory Diseases: Disorders of Amplified Danger Signaling
Authors: de Jesus Adriana Almeida , Canna Scott W. , Liu Yin , Goldbach-Mansky Raphaela
Published: February 2015

Patients with autoinflammatory diseases present with noninfectious fever flares and systemic and/or disease-specific organ inflammation. Their excessive proinflammatory cytokine and chemokine responses can be life threatening and lead to organ damage over time. Studying such patients has revealed genetic defects that have helped unravel key innate immune pathways, including excessive IL-1 signaling, constitutive NF-κB activation, and, more recently, chronic type I IFN signaling. Discoveries of monogenic defects that lead to activation of proinflammatory cytokines have inspired the use of anticytokine-directed treatment approaches that have been life changing for many patients and have led to the approval of IL-1-blocking agents for a number of autoinflammatory conditions. In this review, we describe the genetically characterized autoinflammatory diseases, we summarize our understanding of the molecular pathways that drive clinical phenotypes and that continue to inspire the search for novel treatment targets, and we provide a conceptual framework for classification.
The Rise and Spread of Suicide Bombing
Authors: Horowitz Michael C
Published: February 2015

This article reviews the existing literature, mostly from political science, on suicide bombing. A prominent weapon in the toolkit of violent nonstate actors for a generation, suicide bombing generates a significantly larger number of casualties per attack than other uses of force by terrorist groups, insurgents, and others. Scholars tend to agree that no single reason leads individuals to become suicide bombers. Moreover, groups use suicide bombing for strategic reasons—although whether suicide bombing campaigns make groups more likely to achieve their goals is unclear. Scholars continue to disagree about what drives groups to adopt or eschew suicide bombing, including the role of religion. Although groups that are more religious are significantly more likely to adopt suicide bombing, the underlying cause and its relationship to particular religious ideologies (such as Salafi Jihadi movements) versus the structure of religious groups remain matters of contention.
The Far-Reaching Impact of Job Loss and Unemployment
Authors: Brand Jennie E.
Published: February 2015

Job loss is an involuntary disruptive life event with a far-reaching impact on workers' life trajectories. Its incidence among growing segments of the workforce, alongside the recent era of severe economic upheaval, has increased attention to the effects of job loss and unemployment. As a relatively exogenous labor market shock, the study of displacement enables robust estimates of associations between socioeconomic circumstances and life outcomes. Research suggests that displacement is associated with subsequent unemployment, long-term earnings losses, and lower job quality; declines in psychological and physical well-being; loss of psychosocial assets; social withdrawal; family disruption; and lower levels of children's attainment and well-being. Although reemployment mitigates some of the negative effects of job loss, it does not eliminate them. Contexts of widespread unemployment, although associated with larger economic losses, lessen the social-psychological impact of job loss. Future research should attend more fully to how the economic and social-psychological effects of displacement intersect and extend beyond displaced workers themselves.
Screening and Monitoring Coeliac Disease: Multicentre Trial of a New Serum Antibody Test Kit
Authors: Devine Peter L. , Birrells Geoffrey W. , Golder Jeffrey P. , Marsh Michael N. , Morgan Shethah , Chang Grace , Gillis David , Hobson Peter , Robertson Peter , Whybint Ross , Skerritt John H.
Published: February 2015

A multicentre trial was conducted to evaluate a new test for anti‐gliadin antibodies (AGA) in serum (Coeliac Screening Kit, CSK, Medical Innovations Limited, Artarmon, NSW, Australia). The te st showed excellent reproducibility for both anti‐gliadin IgA and IgG detection. The average intraassay coefficient of variation (CV) was 3.0% for IgA and 2.4% for IgG (n=6), while the
average interassay CV was 6.4% for IgA and 4.3% for IgG (n=3). By defining a positive te st as both IgA and IgG elevated, a sensitivity of 93% in untreated coeliacs (n=75) was observed. The corresponding specificities in healthy adults (n=130) and healthy children (n=77) were >99% and 100% respectively, while in patients with other gastrointestinal disorders (disease controls) the specificity was 94% (n=129). The test was also useful in monitoring patients, with anti‐gliadin IgA and IgG falling for up to a year after commencing a gluten‐free diet (GFD) (12 adults). In some patients however, antibody levels did not reach the normal cutpoint after many months on a GFD, which may reflect the patients ′ poor adherence to their gluten free diet. The test was superior to the Pharmacia anti‐gliadin ELISA, and should be useful as an aid to the diagnosis of coeliac disease, as well as in the follow‐up of treated patients.
The World‐Wide Web: An Interface between Research and Teaching in Bioinformatics
Authors: Aiton James F.
Published: February 2015

The rapid expansion occurring in World‐Wide Web activity is beginning to make the concepts of ‘global hypermedia’ and ‘universal document readership’ realistic objectives of the new revolution in information technology. One consequence of this increase in usage is that educators and students are becoming more aware of the diversity of the knowledge base which can be accessed via the Internet. Although computerised databases and information services have long played a key role in bioinformatics these same resources can also be used to provide core materials for teaching and learning. The large datasets and arch ives th at have been compiled for biomedical research can be enhanced with the addition of a variety of multimedia elements (images. digital videos. animation etc.). The use of this digitally stored information in structured and self‐directed learning environments is likely to increase as activity across World‐Wide Web increases.
Coefficients of Relationship by Isonymy among Scottish Males with Multiple Primary Cancers
Authors: Holloway Susan M.
Published: February 2015

Patients with heritable cancer syndromes often develop multiple primary cancers (mpc) affecting one or more organs or tissues. However, it is less clear whether the presence of mpc in a patient implies that genetic factors have an important role in aetiology. We have investigated this by comparing the surname distributions of 11205 males with mpc on the Scottish Cancer Register, with corresponding distributions in male controls and in males with individual cancers, by calculating coefficients of relationship by isonymy. Our results suggest that although genetic factors may have a role in the aetiology of mpc, particularly if the cancers affect different tissues or organs, their effect is small compared with that of environmental factors.
Generalized Well-Posedness for Symmetric Vector Quasi-Equilibrium Problems
Authors: Zhang Wei-bing , Huang Nan-jing , O’Regan Donal
Published: February 2015

We introduce and study well-posedness in connection with the symmetric vector quasi-equilibrium problem, which unifies its Hadamard and Levitin-Polyak well-posedness. Using the nonlinear scalarization function, we give some sufficient conditions to guarantee the existence of well-posedness for the symmetric vector quasi-equilibrium problem.
Future Therapies of Wet Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Authors: Ishikawa Makoto , Jin Daisuke , Sawada Yu , Abe Sanae , Yoshitomi Takeshi
Published: February 2015

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of blindness in the elderly population, and the prevalence of the disease increases exponentially with every decade after the age of 50 years. While VEGF inhibitors are promising drugs for treating patients with ocular neovascularization, there are limitations to their potential for improving vision in AMD patients. Thus, future therapies are required to have the potential to improve visual outcomes. This paper will summarize the future strategies and therapeutic targets that are aimed at enhancing the efficacy and duration of effect of antiangiogenic strategies.
Direct Effects of (−)-Epicatechin and Procyanidin B2 on the Respiration of Rat Heart Mitochondria
Authors: Kopustinskiene Dalia M. , Savickas Arunas , Vetchý David , Masteikova Ruta , Kasauskas Arturas , Bernatoniene Jurga
Published: February 2015

Flavonol (−)-epicatechin and its derived dimer procyanidin B2, present in high amounts in cocoa products, have been shown to exert beneficial effects on the heart and cardiovascular system; however, their mechanism of action has not been fully elucidated. We studied effects of (−)-epicatechin and procyanidin B2 on the oxidative phosphorylation of isolated rat heart mitochondria. (−)-Epicatechin and procyanidin B2 had stimulating effect (up to 30% compared to control) on substrate-driven (State 2) mitochondrial respiration. Their effect was dependent on the respiratory substrates used. (−)-Epicatechin at higher concentrations (from 0.27 µg/mL) significantly decreased (up to 15%) substrate- and ADP-driven (State 3) mitochondrial respiration in case of pyruvate and malate oxidation only. Procyanidin B2 (0.7–17.9 ng/mL) inhibited State 3 respiration rate up to 19%, the most profound effect being expressed with succinate as the substrate. (−)-Epicatechin at concentrations of 0.23 µg/mL and 0.46 µg/mL prevented loss of the cytochromecfrom mitochondria when substrate was succinate, supporting the evidence of membrane stabilizing properties of this flavonol. Thus, both (−)-epicatechin and procyanidin B2 directly influenced mitochondrial functions and the observed effects could help to explain cardiometabolic risk reduction ascribed to the consumption of modest amounts of cocoa products.
Intrasplenic Arterial Aneurysms during Pregnancy
Authors: Abu-khalaf Mahmoud M. S. , Al-Ameer Sokiyna M. , Smadi Moath M. , Qatawneh Ayman , Smara Osama A. , Hadidy Azmy T.
Published: February 2015

Splenic artery aneurysms account for about 60% of all visceral aneurysms. Pregnancy is a risk factor for splenic artery aneurysms rupture with high maternal mortality and fetal loss. Intrasplenic arterial aneurysms are extremely rare and have not been reported to be associated with pregnancy. This report presents a 34-year-old woman during the second trimester, admitted with severe left upper quadrant and left shoulder pain. She had two uncomplicated intrasplenic aneurysms. Splenectomy was done. She delivered a full term healthy girl. This is the first report of acute abdomen during pregnancy caused by intrasplenic artery aneurysms with maternal and fetal survival.
Validation of Health Extension Workers Job Motivation Scale in Gamo-Gofa Zone, Southern Ethiopia: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Mohammed Shikur , Tilahun Marelign , Kote Mesfin , Mama Mohamedaman , Tamiru Dessalegn
Published: February 2015

Introduction. Well-trained and highly motivated community health workers are critical for delivery of community-based health care services. Understanding what motivates especially community health care providers for better community health requires the use of psychometrically reliable and valid scale. This study was conducted to validate job motivation scale in Gamo Gofa Zone, Southern Ethiopia. Methods. A cross-sectional study was conducted in 150 health care posts in Gamo Gofa Zone, from February 01, 2013, to March 01, 2013. A total of 301 participants responded to questionnaires asking about sociodemographic characteristics and job motivation. Exploratory factor analysis with principal component extraction and varimax with Kaiser Normalization rotation were employed to develop scales for job motivation. Eigenvalues greater than 1 were used as criterion of extraction. Items with item factor loadings less than 0.4 and double loaded items were dropped. Alpha and exploratory factor analyses were examined to test reliability and validity of the scale. Results. During exploratory factor analysis eight factors emerged from the three dimensions of job motivation scale, namely, educational career, workload, financial incentive, supervisor encouragement, community recognition, access to infrastructure, living condition, and better achievement in work. The factor loadings of the items in each dimension ranged from 0.58 to 0.83. Crobach’s alpha of the scales ranged from 0.79 to 0.90. To check validities of the scales developed in this study, the previous studies conducted to develop job motivation scale were used. Conclusion. Although the present scale has the potential to measure the job motivation of health extension workers and it is low in cost and easy to administer and analyze, it should be field-tested at different settings.
Cicatricial Ectropion Secondary to Psoriatic Arthritis
Authors: Gracitelli Carolina P. B. , Osaki Tammy Hentona , Valdrighi Natalia Yumi , Viana Giovanni André Pires , Osaki Midori Hentona
Published: February 2015

Ectropion is characterized by the eversion of the eyelid margin and the consequent exposure of the conjunctiva and cornea. The shortening of the anterior lamella of the lid causes cicatricial ectropion. We described a case of skin pathology causing cicatricial ectropion. The case is about a 68-year-old woman with a 2-year history of psoriatic arthritis. She complained of eyelid tearing and redness for two years. Due to the psoriasis, she presented a very dry skin, also in the periocular region, resulting in cicatricial ectropion. A skin graft was indicated to correct the eyelid malposition. Careful investigation should be performed in patients who have a skin disease that can lead to cicatricial ectropion.
Effect of TLR4/MyD88 Signaling Pathway on Expression of IL‐1β and TNF‐α in Synovial Fibroblasts from Temporomandibular Joint Exposed to Lipopolysaccharide
Authors: Lin Xuefen , Kong Jingjing , Wu Qingting , Yang Yingying , Ji Ping
Published: February 2015

Accumulating evidence from previous studies suggested that interleukin‐1 (IL‐1β) and tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α) play an important role in pathogenesis of temporomandibular disorders (TMD). However, the cell surface receptors and the intracellular signal pathways leading to these cytokines expression are not fully understood. In the current study, we investigated the roles of Toll‐like receptor 4 (TLR4) and its adaptor myeloid differentiation factor 88 (MyD88) in the expression of IL‐1β and TNF‐α in synovial fibroblasts (SFs) separated from rat temporomandibular joint (TMJ) with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) stimulation. The results showed that treatment with LPS could increase TLR4, MyD88, IL‐1β, and TNF‐α expression at both mRNA and protein levels. In addition, increased expression of IL‐1β and TNF‐α could be blocked by treatment with TAK‐242, a blocker of TLR4 signaling, and also by MyD88 inhibitory peptide (MIP). These findings suggested that maybe TLR4/MyD88 signal transduction pathway participates in enhanced expression of IL‐1 and TNF‐α in patients with TMD. The activation of TLR4/MyD88 signal transduction pathway which results in production of proinflammatory factors may play a role in the pathogenesis of TMD.
Predicting Psychotic-Like Experiences during Sensory Deprivation
Authors: Daniel Christina , Mason Oliver J.
Published: February 2015

Aims. This study aimed to establish the contribution of hallucination proneness, anxiety, suggestibility, and fantasy proneness to psychotic-like experiences (PLEs) reported during brief sensory deprivation.Method. Twenty-four high and 22 low hallucination-prone participants reported on PLEs occurring during brief sensory deprivation and at baseline. State/trait anxiety, suggestibility, and fantasy proneness were also measured.Results. Both groups experienced a significant increase in PLEs in sensory deprivation. The high hallucination prone group reported more PLEs both at baseline and in sensory deprivation. They also scored significantly higher on measures of state/trait anxiety, suggestibility, and fantasy proneness, though these did not explain the effects of group or condition. Regression analysis found hallucination proneness to be the best predictor of the increase in PLEs, with state anxiety also being a significant predictor. Fantasy proneness and suggestibility were not significant predictors.Conclusion. This study suggests the increase in PLEs reported during sensory deprivation reflects a genuine aberration in perceptual experience, as opposed to increased tendency to make false reports due to suggestibility of fantasy proneness. The study provides further support for the use of sensory deprivation as a safe and effective nonpharmacological model of psychosis.
Evolution of Metabolic Abnormalities in Alcoholic Patients during Withdrawal
Authors: Vandemergel X. , Simon F.
Published: February 2015

Chronic alcohol intoxication is accompanied by metabolic abnormalities. Evolution during the early withdrawal period has been poorly investigated. The aim of this study was to determine the evolution of metabolic parameters during alcohol withdrawal.Patients and Methods. Thirty-three patients admitted in our department for alcohol withdrawal were prospectively included.Results. Baseline hypophosphatemia was found in 24% of cases. FEPO4 was reduced from 14.2 ± 9% at baseline to 7.3 ± 4.2% at day 3 (P<0.01). FEPO4 inversely correlated with albuminemia (rs = −0.41,P= 0.01). CPK level was 124 ± 104 IU/L in men and 145 ± 85 IU/L in women (nl<308and <192 IU/L, resp.), 7% and 28% of patients having a CPK level >nl, respectively. No correlation was found between the sodium and CPK levels (P=0.75) nor between the CPK level and the amount of alcohol ingested (rs = 0.084,P=0.097). Baseline urate level was elevated and returned to normal after three days. Baseline magnesium concentration was normal and stable over time.Conclusion. Chronic alcohol intoxication was accompanied by phosphaturia, rapidly reversible after alcohol withdrawal and inversely correlated with albuminemia, slight hyponatremia, low levels of 25 hydroxy vitamin D, elevated CPK level in about 30% of women, and hyperuricemia with rapid normalization.
Trigger Points: An Anatomical Substratum
Authors: Akamatsu Flávia Emi , Ayres Bernardo Rodrigues , Saleh Samir Omar , Hojaij Flávio , Andrade Mauro , Hsing Wu Tu , Jacomo Alfredo Luiz
Published: February 2015

This study aimed to bring the trapezius muscle knowledge of the locations where the accessory nerve branches enter the muscle belly to reach the motor endplates and find myofascial trigger points (MTrPs). Although anatomoclinical correlations represent a major feature of MTrP, no previous reports describing the distribution of the accessory nerve branches and their anatomical relationship with MTrP are found in the literature. Both trapezius muscles from twelve adult cadavers were carefully dissected by the authors (anatomy professors and medical graduate students) to observe the exact point where the branches of the spinal accessory nerve entered the muscle belly. Dissection was performed through stratigraphic layers to preserve the motor innervation of the trapezius muscle, which is located deep in the muscle. Seven points are described, four of which are motor points: in all cases, these locations corresponded to clinically described MTrPs. The four points were common in these twelve cadavers. This type of clinical correlation between spinal accessory nerve branching and MTrP is useful to achieve a better understanding of the anatomical correlation of MTrP and the physiopathology of these disorders and may provide a scientific basis for their treatment, rendering useful additional information to therapists to achieve better diagnoses and improve therapeutic approaches.
Laparoscopic Excision of Coexisting Left Tubal and Right Pseudotubal Pregnancy after Conservative Management of Previous Ectopic Pregnancy with Methotrexate: An Unusual Clinical Entity
Authors: Xiromeritis Panayotis , Margioula-Siarkou Chrysoula , Miliaras Dimosthenis , Kalogiannidis Ioannis
Published: February 2015

Tubal pregnancy concerns 97% of all ectopic pregnancies. Treatment can be either surgical (salpingostomy or salpingectomy) or medical (methotrexate administration). We present a case of a pseudotubal pregnancy after methotrexate treatment of a previous ectopic pregnancy. A37-year-old woman was diagnosed with ectopic pregnancy in the left Fallopian tube. A year ago, she had an ectopic pregnancy in the right tube, which was successfully treated with intramuscular methotrexate. During laparoscopy, two tubal masses were revealed, one in each Fallopian tube, and bilateral salpingectomy was performed. Histological analysis confirmed tubal pregnancy in the left Fallopian tube and presence of endosalpingitis in the right tube with no signs of chorionic villi. The optimal management of such cases has not yet been clarified. However, evaluation of tubal patency after a medically treated ectopic pregnancy would permit proper counsel of the patient on her fertility options, in order to choose the appropriate method of conception to achieve and accomplish a future pregnancy.
Feasibility of Endoscopic Resection for Sessile Nonampullary Duodenal Tumors: A Multicenter Retrospective Study
Authors: Park Sung Min , Ham Joo Ho , Kim Byung-Wook , Kim Joon Sung , Kim Chang Whan , Kim Jin Il , Lim Chul Hyun , Oh Jung Hwan
Published: February 2015

Objectives. Sessile nonampullary duodenal tumors (SNADTs) are relatively rare and endoscopic resection of these lesions is considered more challenging than in other parts of the gastrointestinal tract. The aim of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of endoscopic resection for SNADT.Methods. Medical records including endoscopic resection for SNADT from July 2002 to July 2013 from 5 centers affiliated to The Catholic University of Korea were reviewed retrospectively. Demographic features and clinical outcomes such as complete resection and complications were analyzed.Results. A total of 56 lesions from 54 patients were enrolled in this study. Forty-five lesions were resected by endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR), 6 lesions by endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD), and 5 lesions by simple polypectomy. Histologic examination after endoscopic resection revealed adenocarcinoma in 2, low grade adenoma in 25, high grade adenoma in 11, and carcinoid tumor in 18 lesions.En blocresection rates and histological complete resection rates were 78.6% (44/56) and 80.0% (28/35), respectively. Bleeding which required additional endoscopic intervention occurred in 1.8% (1/56) and perforation in 7.1% (4/56). There was no procedure-related mortality.Conclusions. Endoscopic resection techniques including ESD might be safe and effective modalities for the management of SNADT.
Wettability Studies Using Zeta Potential Measurements
Authors: Bassioni Ghada , Taha Taqvi Syed
Published: February 2015

Wettability studies have been carried out on reservoir rocks using different techniques such as the Amott-Harvey method, the USBM method, and the contact angle method, all with limitations. In this study, the wettability is studied by discussing the surface charge using zeta potential measurements. The study relies on the finding that carbonated reservoir rocks, consisting of CaCO3mainly, are positively charged and their surface has the potential to adsorb significant quantities of anions. Moreover, heavy fractions such as asphaltenes are reported to remain afloat depending on dispersive forces present in the oil and its various fractions. Experiments are carried out on aqueous limestone suspension with the addition of crude oil. The experiment is repeated with the use of polymeric inhibitors, A and B. The zeta potential is found to alter depending on the sequence of polymeric inhibitor in oil/water addition. The inhibitor is found to adsorb on the limestone surface, with a net negative charge, causing repulsion between crude oil and the inhibitor and, hence, preventing the deposition of heavy fractions and particularly asphaltenes. This study gives a comprehensive insight on the mechanism of polymeric inhibitor interaction with the surface and the effect of wettability on its performance.
Messaging Attacks on Android: Vulnerabilities and Intrusion Detection
Authors: Hamandi Khodor , Salman Alaa , Elhajj Imad H. , Chehab Ali , Kayssi Ayman
Published: February 2015

Currently, Android is the leading mobile operating system in number of users worldwide. On the security side, Android has had significant challenges despite the efforts of the Android designers to provide a secure environment for apps. In this paper, we present numerous attacks targeting the messaging framework of the Android system. Our focus is on SMS, USSD, and the evolution of their associated security in Android and accordingly the development of related attacks. Also, we shed light on the Android elements that are responsible for these attacks. Furthermore, we present the architecture of an intrusion detection system (IDS) that promises to thwart SMS messaging attacks. Our IDS shows a detection rate of 87.50% with zero false positives.
Synthesis, Crystal Structure, and DFT Calculations of 1,3-Diisobutyl Thiourea
Authors: Altaf Ataf A. , Shahzad Adnan , Gul Zarif , Khan Sher A. , Badshah Amin , Tahir Muhammad N. , Zafar Zafar I. , Khan Ezzat
Published: February 2015

1,3-Diisobutyl thiourea was synthesized and characterized by single crystal X-ray diffraction. It gives a monoclinic (α=γ= 90 andβ  ≠90) structure with the space group P21/c. The unit cell dimensions area= 11.5131 (4) Å,b= 9.2355 (3) Å,c= 11.3093 (5) Å,α= 90°,β= 99.569° (2),γ= 90°,V= 1185.78 (8) Å3, andZ= 4. The crystal packing is stabilized by intermolecular (N–H⋯S) hydrogen bonding in the molecules. The optimized geometry and Mullikan's charges of the said molecule calculated with the help of DFT using B3LYP-6-311G model support the crystal structure.
Synthesis, Characterization, and Antibacterial Activities of Novel Sulfonamides Derived through Condensation of Amino Group Containing Drugs, Amino Acids, and Their Analogs
Authors: Abdul Qadir Muhammad , Ahmed Mahmood , Iqbal Muhammad
Published: February 2015

Novel sulfonamides were developed and structures of the new products were confirmed by elemental and spectral analysis (FT-IR, ESI-MS,1HNMR, and13CNMR). In vitro, developed compounds were screened for their antibacterial activities against medically important gram (+) and gram (−) bacterial strains, namely,S. aureus,B. subtilis,E. coli, andK. pneumoniae. The antibacterial activities have been determined by measuring MIC values (μg/mL) and zone of inhibitions (mm). Among the tested compounds, it was found that compounds 5a and 9a have most potent activity againstE. coliwith zone of inhibition:31±0.12 mm (MIC: 7.81 μg/mL) and30±0.12 mm (MIC: 7.81 μg/mL), respectively, nearly as active as ciprofloxacin (zone of inhibition:32±0.12 mm). In contrast, all the compounds were totally inactive against the gram (+)B. subtilis.
A Peer Health Educator Program for Breast Cancer Screening Promotion: Arabic, Chinese, South Asian, and Vietnamese Immigrant Women’s Perspectives
Authors: Crawford Joanne , Frisina Angela , Hack Tricia , Parascandalo Faye
Published: February 2015

This study explored Arabic, Chinese, South Asian, and Vietnamese immigrant women’s experiences with a peer health educator program, a public health program that facilitated access to breast health information and mammography screening. Framed within critical social theory, this participatory action research project took place from July 2009 to January 2011. Ten focus groups and 14 individual interviews were conducted with 82 immigrant women 40 years of age and older. Qualitative methods were utilized. Thematic content analysis derived from grounded theory and other qualitative literature was employed to analyze data. Four dominant themes emerged:Breast Cancer Preventionfocused on learning within the program,Social Supportprovided by the peer health educator and other women,Screening Services Access for Womencentered on service provision, andProgram Enhancementsrelated to specific modifications required to meet the needs of immigrant women accessing the program. The findings provide insights into strategies used to promote breast health, mammography screening, and the improvement of public health programming. Perceived barriers that continue to persist are structural barriers, such as the provision of information on breast cancer and screening by family physicians. A future goal is to improve collaborations between public health and primary care to minimize this barrier.
Self-Inflicted Needle Injuries to the Eye: A Curing Pain
Authors: Amiri Shahrokh , Arfaei Asghar , Farhang Sara
Published: February 2015

There are few reports of severe self-injury to eyes in patients with schizophrenia. We report on a 41-year-old woman, primarily visiting for symptoms of endophthalmitis resulting from self-inflicted needles. Further evaluations established the diagnosis of schizophrenia because of arguing and commenting on auditory hallucinations and negative symptoms including social isolation, decreased self-care, blunt affect, and a monotone voice. The patient had been suffering from auditory hallucinations for several years and found relief in bodily pain caused by needles. The patient received 6 mg of risperidone. Hallucinations were resolved and self-injury behaviour was not repeated.
Second-Generation Antipsychotic Drugs in Anorexia Nervosa: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Dold Markus , Aigner Martin , Klabunde Megan , Treasure Janet , Kasper Siegfried
Published: February 2015

Background: Second-generation antipsychotic drugs (SGAs) are increasingly administered to achieve weight gain in anorexia nervosa. In this meta-analysis, we aimed to determine if any evidence for this treatment option can be derived from randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Methods: Based on the ‘World Federation of Societies of Biological Psychiatry (WFSBP) Guidelines for the Pharmacological Treatment of Eating Disorders', a systematic update literature search was applied to identify all RCTs investigating the efficacy, acceptability, and tolerability of SGAs in anorexia nervosa in comparison to placebo/no treatment. The primary outcome was weight gain measured by mean change in body mass index (BMI). Secondary outcomes were mean changes in Yale-Brown-Cornell Eating Disorders Scale (YBC-EDS) total score and Eating Disorders Inventory (EDI) total score and premature discontinuation of treatment. Employing a random-effects model standardized mean differences based on Hedges's g and Mantel-Haenszel risk ratios were calculated. Results: Seven RCTs (n = 201) investigating olanzapine (N = 4), quetiapine (N = 2), and risperidone (N = 1) were included. We found no statistically significant between-group differences for mean BMI change when pooling the SGAs (N = 7, n = 161; Hedges's g = 0.13, 95% CI: -0.17 to 0.43; p = 0.4) and when examining the individual drugs. Furthermore, the SGAs failed to differentiate statistically significantly from placebo/no treatment for all secondary outcomes. Conclusions: Based on the current evidence, pharmacological treatment of anorexia nervosa with SGAs cannot be generally recommended although some individuals or subgroups of patients might benefit from an antipsychotic medication. Further research is required to identify which patients will likely benefit from such a treatment option.
Treating Treatment-Resistant Patients with Panic Disorder and Agoraphobia Using Psychotherapy: A Randomized Controlled Switching Trial
Authors: Gloster Andrew T. , Sonntag Rainer , Hoyer Jürgen , Meyer Andrea H. , Heinze Simone , Ströhle Andreas , Eifert Georg , Wittchen Hans-Ulrich
Published: February 2015

Background: Nonresponsiveness to therapy is generally acknowledged, but only a few studies have tested switching to psychotherapy. This study is one of the first to examine the malleability of treatment-resistant patients using acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT). Methods: This was a randomized controlled trial that included 43 patients diagnosed with primary panic disorder and/or agoraphobia (PD/A) with prior unsuccessful state-of-the-art treatment (mean number of previous sessions = 42.2). Patients were treated with an ACT manual administered by novice therapists and followed up for 6 months. They were randomized to immediate treatment (n = 33) or a 4-week waiting list (n = 10) with delayed treatment (n = 8). Treatment consisted of eight sessions, implemented twice weekly over 4 weeks. Primary outcomes were measured with the Panic and Agoraphobia Scale (PAS), the Clinical Global Impression (CGI), and the Mobility Inventory (MI). Results: At post-treatment, patients who received ACT reported significantly more improvements on the PAS and CGI (d = 0.72 and 0.89, respectively) than those who were on the waiting list, while improvement on the MI (d = 0.50) was nearly significant. Secondary outcomes were consistent with ACT theory. Follow-up assessments indicated a stable and continued improvement after treatment. The dropout rate was low (9%). Conclusions: Despite a clinically challenging sample and brief treatment administered by novice therapists, patients who received ACT reported significantly greater changes in functioning and symptomatology than those on the waiting list, with medium-to-large effect sizes that were maintained for at least 6 months. These proof-of-principle data suggest that ACT is a viable treatment option for treatment-resistant PD/A patients. Further work on switching to psychotherapy for nonresponders is clearly needed.
Underdiagnosis of Obstructive Sleep Apnoea in Peripheral Arterial Disease
Authors: Pizarro Carmen , Schaefer Christian , Kimeu Irene , Pingel Simon , Horlbeck Fritz , Tuleta Izabela , Nickenig Georg , Skowasch Dirk
Published: February 2015

Background: Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) has interdependently been related to the onset and progression of a large portion of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disorders. In due consideration of OSA-mediated endothelial dysfunction, its impact on peripheral artery disease is conceivable, but undefined. Objectives: The aim of this study was to identify the prevalence of OSA in a lower extremity artery disease (LEAD) study population. Methods: A total of 91 patients receiving in- and outpatient treatment for LEAD were included in this prospectively conducted trial. In addition to an angiological examination, all patients underwent nocturnal screening for sleep-disordered breathing by use of SOMNOcheck micro® (SC micro) and - depending on the results obtained - polysomnography. Results: Patients were principally late middle-aged (69.3 ± 10.8 years), male (71.4%) and slightly overweight (BMI 26.8 ± 3.9). Overnight screening determined a sleep apnoea prevalence of 78.0%, of which 90.1% exhibited a predominantly obstructive genesis. The mean apnoea-hypopnoea index (AHI; events/h) and oxygen desaturation index (events/h) averaged 11.8 ± 13.4 and 8.9 ± 14.2, respectively. The individual AHI categories of non-pathological (<5), mild (5 to <15), moderate (15 to <30) and severe sleep apnoea (≥30) accounted for 22.0, 59.3, 13.2 and 5.5%, respectively. A distributive examination of AHI within LEAD severity groups evinced a significant association (p = 0.047). In cases of at least moderate sleep apnoea (AHI ≥15) polysomnography was performed (n = 17, 18.7% of the whole collective). Correlative analysis revealed a significant correlation between values obtained by SC micro recording and polysomnography, establishing the diagnostic accuracy of the screening results. Conclusions: OSA exhibits an important prevalence of 70.3% in LEAD patients with prior undiagnosed sleep-disordered breathing, indicating major OSA unawareness in this cardiovascular cohort. However, the impact of OSA treatment on LEAD propagation remains to be determined.
The Impact of Individualized Interaction on the Quality of Life of Elderly Dependent on Care as a Result of Dementia: A Study with a Pre-Post Design
Authors: de Vocht Hilde M. , Hoogeboom A.M.G. Marcella , van Niekerk Bob , den Ouden Marjolein E.M.
Published: February 2015

Background: The aim was to assess the impact of a one-to-one 30-min individualized interaction per day on the behavior and quality of life of care-dependent residents with dementia. Methods: In a pre-/post-test study, 15 care-dependent residents with dementia (mean age 88.8 years, 86.7% women) were included. Resident behavior was measured using video observation and quality of life using Qualidem. Health care professionals (n = 13) and direct relatives (n = 4) were interviewed about the effect of the intervention. The effect of the intervention was analyzed using the Friedman analysis of variance. Results: The video observation showed that maintaining eye contact, touching, responding to speaking, tracking observable stimuli and asking questions about the activity significantly increased during the intervention. These findings were supported by interviews with nurses who described experiences of making human-to-human contact with the residents. No significant overall changes were found in quality of life. These findings were partially supported by interviews with health care professionals and relatives as some perceived effects beyond the 30-min intervention. Conclusions: Interaction offered on a one-to-one basis tailored to individual preferences significantly improved positive interactive behavior of care-dependent residents with dementia during the intervention. Surveys revealed no significant overall effect of the intervention. The interviews indicated there might be effects beyond the intervention for some residents.
Is There Any Relationship between Plasma Pentraxin 3 Levels and Gestational Diabetes Mellitus?
Authors: Yildirim Melahat , Simavli Serap Aynur , Uysal Derbent Aysel , Kaygusuz Ikbal , Uysal Sema
Published: February 2015

Background: Pentraxin 3 (PTX3) is a novel vascular inflammatory marker which increases in vascular events such as diabetes mellitus. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between serum PTX3 levels and gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). Methods: This prospective observational study was comprised of 88 pregnant women with singleton pregnancies. The subjects were classified into 3 groups according to their response to a 50-gram glucose challenge test (GCT) and a 100-gram oral glucose tolerance test: control group (n = 28), impaired glucose tolerance group (n = 30), and GDM group (n = 30). Serum PTX3 levels were measured to examine the relationship between GDM and GCT values. Results: Significant differences in PTX3 levels were observed among the 3 groups in the sample (F = 7.598; p = 0.001). The mean PTX3 value was found to be significantly higher in the GDM group (3.17 ± 1.16 ng/ml) than in the control group (2.20 ± 0.83 ng/ml; p = 0.001). A significant positive correlation between PTX3 and GCT values was detected (r = 0.289; p = 0.008). Conclusion: Maternal serum PTX3 levels were found to be significantly related to high blood glucose levels. This may be an indicator of vascular pathology in GDM around the time of an oral glucose tolerance test.
Spontaneous Regression of Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Its Imaging Course Leading to Complete Disappearance
Authors: Okano Akihiro , Ohana Masaya
Published: February 2015

Spontaneous regression of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a rare phenomenon. We followed a detailed clinical course of a spontaneous and complete disappearance of HCC during a short interval. A 73-year-old man with hepatitis B virus infection presented with a 15-mm mass in the right anterior superior segment of the liver. The mass was diagnosed as HCC by imaging findings. We found an elevated serum α-fetoprotein (AFP) level of 748 ng/ml. The tumor regressed to 6 mm on imaging examination, and the AFP serum level decreased to 87.8 ng/ml 1 month after the diagnostic hepatic angiography. Therefore, the patient was followed up without any treatment for HCC. The tumor disappeared 5 months later when the AFP serum level was 5.0 ng/ml. The diagnostic hepatic angiography might have had some effect on the spontaneous regression of HCC in the present case.
Febrile Neutropenia in a Metastatic Melanoma Patient Treated with Ipilimumab - Case Report
Authors: Woźniak Sebastian , Mackiewicz-Wysocka Małgorzata , Krokowicz Łukasz , Kwinta Łukasz , Mackiewicz Jacek
Published: February 2015

Background: Ipilimumab is a fully human monoclonal antibody (mAb) targeting cytotoxic T-lymphocyte antigen-4 (CTLA-4). Ipilimumab is currently approved in the U.S. and Europe for the treatment of metastatic melanoma in the first- and second-line treatment. Treatment with ipilimumab is linked to immune-related adverse events (irAEs) occurring in the majority of patients. These specific AEs include dermatitis, gastrointestinal disorders (diarrhea, colitis), hepatitis, hypophysitis, hypothyroidism, neuropathy, and iritis/inflammation of the ciliary body. Case Report: We report a case of febrile neutropenia with agranulocytosis in the blood smear of a 35-year-old metastatic melanoma patient treated with ipilimumab 3 mg/kg. Conclusion: This AE was probably caused by antineutrophil antibodies associated with ipilimumab treatment. To our knowledge this is the first case report of febrile neutropenia in a metastatic melanoma patient treated with ipilimumab 3 mg/kg.
A Case of a Vitreomacular Traction-Associated Macular Microhole in an Eye with Focal Choroidal Excavation
Authors: Fukumoto Masanori , Morishita Seita , Okuda Yoshitaka , Suzuki Hiroyuki , Sato Takaki , Kida Teruyo , Ikeda Tsunehiko
Published: February 2015

Purpose: It was the aim of this study to report a case of a vitreomacular traction-associated macular microhole (MMH) in an eye with focal choroidal excavation (FCE) detected by spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT). Patients and Methods: A 38-year-old Japanese female presented to our clinic complaining of metamorphopsia in her left eye. The patient then underwent SD-OCT as well as a routine ophthalmological examination. She had a previous history of a macular hole in her right eye that had been successfully treated by pars plana vitrectomy. Results: Upon initial examination, her best-corrected visual acuity was 20/25 in the left eye with a refractive error of -10.25 diopters. Examination by SD-OCT revealed an MMH with an outer retinal defect adjacent to the FCE. SD-OCT also revealed an intraretinal cystoid space in the macula with vitreous attachment around the foveal center. Conclusions: The findings of this report show that variable changes are likely to be associated with FCE. However, the etiology of FCE has yet to be fully elucidated and careful observation is necessary in cases of FCE.
Abordagens pedagógicas e sua relação com as teorias de aprendizagem
Authors: Peres Cristiane Martins , Vieira Marta Neves Campanelli Marçal , Altafim Elisa Rachel Pisani , Mello Michela Bianchi de , Suen Kemen Samder
Published: February 2015

A prática docente demanda o conhecimento de como o indivíduo aprende, como se origina e se desenvolve o aprendizado e como se transforma em experiência significativa de aprendizagem. O objetivo deste artigo é apresentar as concepções teóricas sobre o processo de aprendizagem dos indivíduos e sua relação com as abordagens pedagógicas adotadas nos modelos de cursos de graduação. Nesse sentido, os modelos pedagógicos foram agrupados de forma sintetizada, em modelos que se distinguem por estarem centrados no professor; no estudante; no saber; no meio de comunicação ou na técnica; no contexto social e na interação. Foram apresentadas algumas das principais vertentes discutidas na área da Psicologia do Desenvolvimento Humano, que influenciaram as tendências pedagógicas, como a Inatista, a Ambientalista/Behaviorista, e as Interacionistas. Discute a necessidade das práticas educativas serem conceitualmente fundamentadas.
Ambiente educacional
Authors: Troncon Luiz Ernesto de Almeida
Published: February 2015

O ambiente educacional pode ser definido como um conjunto de elementos que circunda o educando, que nele deve necessariamente se inserir e que o inclui, quando vivencia os processos de ensino e aprendizado. Existem evidências variadas de que o ambiente educacional encontrado pelos educando tem impacto no seu rendimento acadêmico, bem como na sua satisfação com o processo educativo e dão boa medida da sua importância e justificam o seu estudo, no sentido de melhor conhece-lo e poder aperfeiçoa-lo. Os componentes do ambiente educacional são de natureza material, relacionados aos aspectos fisiológicos do educando e de caráter afetivo, relacionados às suas necessidades e respostas emocionais. O ambiente educacional é determinado por fatores ligados à instituição e, em especial, ao professor, que se caracteriza como o principal elemento na sua manutenção e aprimoramento. Uma variedade de instrumentos tem sido descritos para a avaliação do ambiente educacional, que deve ter o sentido de obter informações sobre este importante determinante do aprendizado e do desenvolvimento do estudante. Estas informações podem subsidiar a tomada de medidas visando o aperfeiçoamento do ambiente educacional, o que resulta em aumento da qualidade dos processos educativos.
Trabalho em pequenos grupos: dos mitos à realidade
Authors: Costa Manuel João
Published: February 2015

O trabalho em pequenos grupos está presente em muitas agendas para a reforma da educação e tem vindo a transformar-se numa espécie de mito. De facto, é generalizada a crença na eficácia e na infalibilidade de organizar os alunos em grupos para atingir objetivos específicos ou para desenvolver certos tipos de atividades. Essa crença carece de sustentação empírica tendo mesmo sido batizada como “o romance das equipes”. É necessário e urgente entender o que caracteriza um grupo eficaz e quais as circunstâncias necessárias para garantir tal eficácia, de forma a evitar erros comuns em muitas reformas académicas. Por exemplo, é inadequado adotar de raíz o trabalho em pequenos grupos numa disciplina, usando os materiais, a organização das atividades letivas e a avaliação desenhada para um modelo tradicional da disciplina. A adoção de trabalho em pequenos grupos deve respeitar um conjunto de princípios essenciais e garantir as condições apropriadas para o transformação dos grupos em equipas eficazes. Este artigo apresenta uma revisão crítica e avaliação do uso de pequenos grupos na educação, identifica os fatores-chave no trabalho em grupo pequenos e discute o papel da aprendizagem em pequenos grupos no ensino superior. Para o efeito, percorre alguma da evidência decorrente de pesquisa sobre a eficácia do trabalho em pequenos grupos.