bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Best proximity point theorems for α-nonexpansive mappings in Banach spaces
Authors: Kong Dezhou , Liu Lishan , Wu Yonghong
Published: September 2015

In this paper, we discuss sufficient and necessary conditions for the existence of best proximity points for non-self-α-nonexpansive mappings in Banach spaces. We obtain convergence results under some assumptions, and we prove the existence of common best proximity points for a family of non-self-α-nonexpansive mappings.
Development of an itraconazole-loaded gelatin microcapsule with enhanced oral bioavailability: physicochemical characterization and in-vivo evaluation
Authors: Li Dong Xun , Park Young-Joon , Oh Dong Hoon , Joe Kwan Hyung , Lee Jung Hoon , Yeo Woo Hyun , Yong Chul Soon , Choi Han-Gon
Published: September 2015

Objectives

The aim of this study was to develop a novel itraconazole-loaded gelatin microcapsule without ethanol with enhanced oral bioavailability.

Methods

Various gelatin microcapsules were prepared using a spray-drying technique. Their physicochemical properties, dissolution, characteristics and pharmacokinetics in rats were evaluated and compared with those of a commercial product.

Key findings

The gelatin microcapsule at a weight ratio for itraconazole/gelatin/citric acid of 1 : 3 : 0.3 was spherical in shape with a smooth surface and inner hole, and gave a maximum drug solubility of about 700 μg/ml. The gelatin microcapsule dramatically increased the initial dissolution rate of itraconazole compared with a commercial product in simulated gastric fluids (pH 1.2). Moreover, at the same dose as the commercial product, it gave significantly higher initial plasma concentrations, Cmax and AUC of itraconazole in rats than did the commercial product, indicating that providing the drug in the gelatin microcapsule caused enhanced absorption in rats. At half dose, it gave similar AUC, Cmax and Tmax values to the commercial product, suggesting that it was bioequivalent to the commercial product in rats.

Conclusions

The itraconazole-loaded gelatin microcapsule without ethanol developed using a spray-drying technique at half the dose of the commercial product can deliver itraconazole in a pattern that allows fast absorption in the initial phase, making it bioequivalent to the commercial product.
Pretreatment with the ciclosporin derivative NIM811 reduces delayed neuronal death in the hippocampus after transient forebrain ischaemia
Authors: Hokari Masaaki , Kuroda Satoshi , Iwasaki Yoshinobu
Published: September 2015

Objectives

There have been several previous studies showing that ciclosporin, a ligand for cyclophilin D (CypD), reduces mitochondrial permeability transition (mPT) and ameliorates delayed neuronal death. NIM811 is a non-immunosuppressive ciclosporin derivative that also inhibits mPT, but has significantly less cytotoxicity than ciclosporin. Actually, in animal experiments, several investigators have reported that NIM811 ameliorates central nervous system disorders, such as traumatic brain injury, transient focal cerebral ischaemia and spinal cord injury. Therefore, we evaluated whether the ciclosporin derivative, NIM811 reduces mPT and ameliorates delayed neuronal death in the hippocampal CA1 sectors in mice when subjected to transient forebrain ischaemia.

Methods

Male C57BL/6 mice were treated with 50 mg/kg ciclosporin, 10, 50 or 100 mg/kg NIM811 or phosphate-buffered saline. At 30 min post-injection, all mice were subjected to 20 min bilateral common carotid artery occlusion (BCCAO). To estimate delayed neuronal death, the sections were prepared for HE staining and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP end-labelling (TUNEL) staining at 72 h after 20 min BCCAO. Furthermore, using 5,5′,6,6′-tetrachloro-1,1′,3,3′-tetraethylbenzimidazolocarbocyanine iodide (JC-1) staining technique, we evaluated whether NIM811 (1, 10, 100 or 1000 μm) inhibited mPT in the neurons exposed to 100 μm glutamate.

Results

Both delayed neuronal injury and apoptosis in the hippocampal CA1 sectors were significantly ameliorated at 72 h after transient forebrain ischaemia in the mice treated with 100 mg/kg NIM811 or 50 mg/kg ciclosporin. The treatments with 100 μm and 1000 μm NIM811 significantly inhibited the reduction of mitochondrial membrane potential in the neurons exposed to 100 μm glutamate.

Conclusions

These findings strongly suggest that NIM811 inhibits mPT and ameliorates delayed neuronal death in mice subjected to transient forebrain ischaemia.
Imidazole inhibits B16 melanoma cell migration via degradation of β-catenin
Authors: Jeong Yun-Mi , Li Hailan , Kim Su Yeon , Yun Hye-Young , Baek Kwang Jin , Kwon Nyoun Soo , Kim Dong-Seok
Published: September 2015

Objectives

In the present study, we determined whether or not imidazole affects B16 murine melanoma cell migration to prevent melanoma metastasis.

Methods

To determine the effects of imidazole on melanoma cell migration, B16 cells were treated with imidazole at various concentrations, and the migration was measured using a scratch migration assay.

Key findings

Imidazole did not exhibit cytotoxic effects on B16 cells at a concentration below 100 μm. The anti-migratory activity of imidazole was determined by the scratch migration assay. Our results showed that imidazole significantly inhibits B16 cell migration. It is known that the Wnt/β-catenin signalling pathway regulates the progression of melanocytic tumours and determines the prognosis in cutaneous melanomas. Western blot analysis demonstrated that imidazole increases phosphorylation of β-catenin and subsequent degradation of β-catenin. Moreover, inhibition of melanoma cell migration by imidazole was restored by MG132, a proteasome inhibitor, via inhibition of β-catenin degradation.

Conclusions

Imidazole inhibits B16 cell migration through β-catenin degradation, suggesting that imidazole is a potential candidate for the treatment of metastatic melanoma.
Cardioprotective effect of matrine on isoproterenol-induced cardiotoxicity in rats
Authors: Li Xiaobing , Zhou Ru , Zheng Ping , Yan Lin , Wu Yang , Xiao Xu , Dai Guidong
Published: September 2015

Objectives

This study was designed to explore the effect and mechanism of matrine, an active component of Chinese traditional medicine, on isoproterenol-induced acute cardiotoxicity in rats.

Methods

Acute myocardial injury was induced in rats by daily subcutaneous injection of isoproterenol (85 mg/kg) for two days. Haemodynamic and biochemical parameters were measured and histopathological examination was performed.

Key findings

Chronic oral administration of matrine (50, 100 or 200 mg/kg per day for 10 days) significantly reduced the release of lactic dehydrogenase, glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase and creatine kinase after isoproterenol-induced myocardial ischaemic injury, improved the left ventricular (LV) dysfunction, including increased LV systolic pressure (LVSP), maximum rate of developed LV pressure (LV dP/dtmax) and minimum rate of developed LV pressure (LV dP/dtmin), increased the activity of superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione peroxidase, and also decreased the content of the lipid peroxidation product malondialdehyde in plasma and myocardial tissues in rats. Acute oral administration of matrine at a dose of 100 or 200 mg/kg for two days also had a cardioprotective effect on this rat model. The protective role of matrine on isoproterenol-induced myocardial damage was further confirmed by histopathological examination. There were no significant changes in heart rate and blood pressure in all experimental groups.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that matrine has a significant cardioprotection against isoproterenol-induced cardiotoxicity through its antioxidant property.
Nasal absorption and local tissue reaction of insulin nanocomplexes of trimethyl chitosan derivatives in rats
Authors: Jintapattanakit Anchalee , Peungvicha Penchom , Sailasuta Achariya , Kissel Thomas , Junyaprasert Varaporn Buraphacheep
Published: September 2015

Objectives

The objective of this work was to explore the potential and safety of trimethyl chitosan (TMC) and PEGylated TMC for improved absorption of insulin after nasal administration.

Methods

The nasal absorption of insulin nanocomplexes of TMC or PEGylated TMC was evaluated in anaesthetized rats. Concomitantly, the histopathological effects of these nanocomplexes on rat nasal mucosa were studied using a perfusion fixation technique.

Key findings

All insulin nanocomplexes containing TMC or PEGylated TMC showed a 34–47% reduction in the blood glucose concentration, when the insulin absorption through the rat nasal mucosa was measured indirectly. In addition, the relative pharmacodynamic bioavailability (Fdyn) of the formulations was found to be dependent upon the charge ratio of insulin and polymer, regardless of polymer structure. The Fdyn apparently decreased with increasing charge ratio of insulin : polymer. Although acute alterations in nasal morphology by the formulations were affected by the charge ratio of insulin and polymer, the formulation of insulin/PEGylated TMC nanocomplexes was shown to be less toxic to the nasal epithelial membrane than insulin/TMC nanocomplexes.

Conclusions

PEGylated TMC nanocomplexes were a suitable absorption enhancer for nasal delivery of insulin.
Inhibition of human liver microsomal CYP by nateglinide
Authors: Takanohashi Toshiyuki , Kubo Satoru , Nakayama Akira , Mihara Ryuichi , Hayashi Masahiro
Published: September 2015

Objectives

Nateglinide is metabolized by CYP2C9 and CYP3A4, therefore drug–drug interactions through cytochrome P450 (CYP) inhibition may occur. In this study, we examined the inhibitory effects of nateglinide and its major metabolite N-[trans-4-(1-hydroxy-1-methylethyl)-cyclohexanecarbonyl]-d-phenylalanine (M1) on various CYP isoforms in human liver microsomes.

Methods

We used typical substrates (7-ethoxyresorufin for CYP1A1/2, tolbutamide for CYP2C9, S-mephenytoin for CYP2C19, bufuralol for CYP2D6, chlorzoxazone for CYP2E1 and midazolam for CYP3A4) in the evaluation of the inhibitory effects, and examined the possibility of mechanism-based inhibition (MBI) by evaluating the influence of pre-incubation in the inhibition.

Key findings

The results showed that nateglinide inhibited CYP2C9 and CYP2C19 with an IC50app (apparent value of the 50% inhibitory concentration) of 125 μmol/l and 946 μmol/l, respectively, while M1 did not inhibit any of the CYP isoforms. The inhibition constant (Ki) value of the inhibitory effect of nateglinide on CYP2C9 and the 1 + Iin,max,u/Ki value were estimated (where Iin,max,u= the maximum unbound concentration of nateglinide). The 1 + Iin,max,u/Ki value was 1.02 (close to 1), suggesting a low risk of drug–drug interactions. The influence of pre-incubation on the inhibition by nateglinide of CYP3A4, CYP2C9 and CYP2C19 was examined. The results revealed that the inhibition of CYP by nateglinide was not influenced by pre-incubation, and that the possibility of MBI is very low.

Conclusions

The possibility of drug–drug interactions involving nateglinide that might be attributable to CYP inhibition is low.
Acute withdrawal induced by adenosine A1-receptor activation in isolated guinea-pig ileum: role of opioid receptors and effect of cholecystokinin
Authors: Marini Pietro , Romanelli Luca , Valeri Daniela , Tucci Paolo , Valeri Pacifico , Palmery Maura
Published: September 2015

Objectives

In isolated guinea-pig ileum, the μ-opioid acute withdrawal response is under control of several neuronal systems, including the κ-opioid and the A1-adenosine systems, which are involved in the μ-withdrawal response inhibitory control. After μ-opioid system stimulation, indirect activation of both κ-opioid and A1-adenosine systems is prevented by the peptide cholecystokinin-8 (CCk-8). Guinea-pig ileum exposed to A1-adenosine agonist (CPA), shows a withdrawal contracture precipitated by the A1-adenosine antagonist (CPT). We investigated this response.

Methods

We investigated the involvement of the opioid system in the A1-adenosine acute withdrawal response in guinea-pig ileum, the potential induced cross-dependence between the A1 and the opioid system and also the interaction between the CCk-8 and A1 systems.

Key findings

We found that in the guinea-pig ileum preparation exposed to CPA, μ- and κ-opioid antagonists increased the withdrawal response to CPT. Tissues exposed to CPA showed a contractile response to the opioid receptor antagonist naloxone only after complete removal of the A1-agonist. In the presence of CPA, the response to CCk-8 was inhibited while a significant increase in CPT response intensity was observed.

Conclusions

In guinea-pig ileum, stimulation of the A1 system indirectly activates both μ- and κ-opioid systems; this indirect activation is significantly, albeit not completely, antagonised by CCk-8. Cross dependence between A1 and opioid systems was also observed.
Influence of penetration enhancers on topical delivery of 5-aminolevulinic acid from bioadhesive patches
Authors: Morrow Desmond I J , McCarron Paul A , Woolfson A David , Juzenas Petras , Juzeniene Asta , Iani Vladimir , Moan Johan , Donnelly Ryan F
Published: September 2015

Objectives

The inclusion of chemical penetration enhancers in a novel patch-based system for the delivery of 5-aminolevulinic acid (ALA) was examined in vitro and in vivo. Poor penetration of ALA has been implicated as the primary factor for low response rates achieved with topical ALA-based photodynamic therapy of thicker neoplastic lesions, such as nodular basal cell carcinomas.

Methods

Several chemical permeation enhancers (dimethylsulfoxide, Labrafac CC, Labrafac PG and Labrafil M1944CS) were incorporated into bioadhesive patches tailored to deliver 19 mg ALA/cm2.

Key findings

In-vitro depth penetration studies into excised porcine skin showed that high concentrations of ALA (>9 μmol/cm3) could be delivered to a depth of 1.875 mm. However, inclusion of permeation enhancers did not significantly increase ALA delivery, relative to the control (P > 0.05). In-vivo studies were in strong agreement with in-vitro results, with formulations containing chemical enhancers showing no improvement in delivery compared with the control.

Conclusions

The patches designed in this work are suited to defineable ALA delivery without the need to immobilise patients for up to 6 h, as is common with the cream-under-occlusion approach. Overall, permeation enhancers were not found to markedly enhance the topical delivery of ALA. However, chemical penetration enhancers may have a greater effect on the delivery of more lipophilic ALA prodrugs, which are thought to primarily permeate the stratum corneum via the intercellular pathway.
Effect of lipopeptides and iontophoresis on aciclovir skin delivery
Authors: Nicoli Sara , Eeman Marc , Deleu Magali , Bresciani Eleonora , Padula Cristina , Santi Patrizia
Published: September 2015

Objectives

Lipopeptides are compounds derived from microorganisms that exhibit pronounced surface and emulsifying activity. The ability of lipopeptides to interact with stratum corneum lipids makes them candidates as transdermal penetration enhancers. We have investigated the potential of two lipopeptides, fengycin and surfactin, to act as enhancers for the transdermal penetration and skin accumulation of aciclovir.

Methods

To investigate a possible synergistic effect, surfactin and fengycin were associated with anodal iontophoresis. Permeation experiments were performed using vertical diffusion cells and pig ear skin as barrier. Differential scanning calorimetry was used to study the interaction between fengycin and stratum corneum lipids.

Key findings

The results obtained indicated that surfactin and fengycin were not suitable to enhance aciclovir flux across the skin, not even when associated with iontophoresis. Aciclovir flux was slightly decreased in passive conditions and unchanged (fengycin) or decreased (surfactin) in anodal iontophoretic conditions. When applied in passive conditions, fengycin and surfactin increased aciclovir concentration in the epidermis by a factor of 2.

Conclusions

Surfactin and fengycin did not enhance aciclovir transport across the skin (not even when associated with iontophoresis) although they increased aciclovir concentration in the epidermis by a factor of 2.
In-vitro transdermal penetration of cytarabine and its N4-alkylamide derivatives
Authors: Legoabe Lesetja J , Breytenbach Jaco C , N'Da David D , Breytenbach J Wilma
Published: September 2015

Objectives

The aim of this study was to synthesise and determine the transdermal penetration of cytarabine alkylamide derivatives and assess the correlation of flux with physicochemical properties.

Methods

The alkylamide derivatives of cytarabine were synthesised by acylation at the N4-amino group by the mixed anhydride method. The in-vitro permeation studies were performed using the Franz diffusion cell methodology. Furthermore, partition coefficients (n-octanol–water) and aqueous solubility of the N4-alkylamide derivatives of cytarabine were determined in order to obtain information about their lipophilicity and hydrophilicity.

Key findings

The N4-alkylamides of cytarabine (acetyl, butanoyl, hexanoyl, octanoyl, and decanoyl derivatives) showed decreased hydrophilicity and increased lipophilicity. The log D values of the alkylamides were higher than that of the parent compound and increased linearly as the alkyl chain lengthened. N4-hexanoyl-4-amino-1-[(2R,3S,4R,5R)-3,4-dihydroxy-5-(hydroxymethyl)oxolan-2-yl] pyrimidin-2-one) showed the highest median steady-state flux (Jss) of 89.0 nmol/cm2 per h in the series, which shows a high statistical difference with the parent compound flux value (3.70 nmol/cm2 per h).

Conclusions

The prodrug approach appears to be a promising strategy for the enhancement of transdermal penetration of cytarabine.
Stability of sodium valproate tablets repackaged into dose administration aids
Authors: Llewelyn Victoria K , Mangan Martina F , Glass Beverley D
Published: September 2015

Objectives

Since sodium valproate, a commonly used antiepileptic drug, has been reported to be unstable in the presence of moisture, our objective was to investigate the effect of repackaging into dose administration aids.

Methods

Sodium valproate 100 mg immediate-release tablets were repackaged and stored for 56 days at accelerated conditions (40°C/75% relative humidity), room temperature (25°C) and under refrigeration (2–8°C). Samples were analysed at 3, 7, 10, 14, 21, 35, 49 and 56 days to determine chemical stability using high-performance liquid chromatography, while physical testing included assessment of weight changes and dissolution behaviour.

Key findings

The results revealed that the sodium valproate content in the tablets remained within the acceptable range of 90–110% under all storage conditions for 56 days. Physical stability, however, was not maintained, with a total weight gain of 12.36% under accelerated conditions over the 56 days. Samples stored under all conditions showed variable dissolution compared to the controls, with the amount of sodium valproate in solution following 45 min of dissolution testing below 75% for half of all the intervals determined.

Conclusions

Repackaging sodium valproate tablets into dose administration aids results in unacceptable weight variation and changes in the dissolution profiles.
Effects of myricetin, an antioxidant, on the pharmacokinetics of losartan and its active metabolite, EXP-3174, in rats: possible role of cytochrome P450 3A4, cytochrome P450 2C9 and P-glycoprotein inhibition by myricetin
Authors: Choi Dong-Hyun , Li Cheng , Choi Jun-Shik
Published: September 2015

Objectives

The effects of myricetin, a natural flavonoid, on the pharmacokinetics of losartan and its active metabolite, EXP-3174, were investigated in rats. Losartan and myricetin interact with cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymes and P-glycoprotein, and the increase in the use of health supplements may result in myricetin being taken concomitantly with losartan as a combination therapy to treat or prevent cardiovascular diseases.

Methods

The pharmacokinetic parameters of losartan and EXP-3174 were determined after oral administration of losartan (9 mg/kg) to rats in the presence or absence of myricetin (0.4, 2 and 8 mg/kg). The effects of myricetin on P-glycoprotein as well as CYP3A4 and CYP2C9 activity were also evaluated.

Key findings

Myricetin inhibited CYP3A4 and CYP2C9 enzyme activity with a 50% inhibition concentration of 7.8 and 13.5 µm, respectively. In addition, myricetin significantly enhanced the cellular accumulation of rhodamine 123 in MCF-7/ADR cells overexpressing P-glycoprotein in a concentration-dependent manner. The pharmacokinetic parameters of losartan were significantly altered by myricetin compared with the control. The presence of myricetin (2 or 8 mg/kg) increased the area under the plasma concentration–time curve of losartan by 31.4–61.1% and peak plasma concentration of losartan by 31.8–50.2%. Consequently, the absolute bioavailability of losartan in the presence of myricetin increased significantly (P < 0.05, 2 mg/kg; P < 0.01, 8 mg/kg) compared with the control. There was no significant change in the time to reach the peak plasma concentration, apparent volume of distribution at steady state or terminal half-life of losartan in the presence of myricetin. Furthermore, concurrent use of myricetin (8 mg/kg) significantly decreased the metabolite–parent area under the plasma concentration–time curve ratio by 20%, implying that myricetin may inhibit the CYP-mediated metabolism of losartan to its active metabolite, EXP-3174.

Conclusions

The enhanced bioavailability of losartan may be mainly due to inhibition of the CYP3A4- and CYP2C9-mediated metabolism of losartan in the small intestine or in the liver, and the P-glycoprotein efflux pump in the small intestine by myricetin.
Selective Direct N-Alkylation of Amines with Alcohols using Iron(III) Phthalocyanine Chloride under Solvent-Free Conditions
Authors: Minakawa Maki , Okubo Masataka , Kawatsura Motoi
Published: September 2015

Direct N-alkylation of amines with alcohols in the presence of iron(III) phthalocyanine chloride as a catalyst in solvent-free conditions under microwave irradiation afforded the corresponding N-alkylamines in moderate to high yield with excellent selectivity.
Kinetic Study on Solid-Phase Reduction of Silica-Supported Nickel Oxide Species
Authors: Yamashita Shohei , Yamamoto Yusaku , Katayama Misaki , Inada Yasuhiro
Published: September 2015

The X-ray absorption fine structure (XAFS) spectroscopy was used to analyze the chemical state conversion of the Ni species in SiO2-supported Ni catalysts which were prepared by the impregnation method with various Ni loadings. The in situ XAFS measurements revealed that the calcined NiO species was quantitatively reduced by H2 to Ni(0) at around 580 K, and the formed Ni(0) species was reversibly and gradually oxidized by O2 up to 873 K. The transmission electron microscopy observation clarified that the Ni(0) particle size was dependent on the Ni loading. The dynamic observations using the time-resolved dispersive XAFS technique showed that the reduction process could be described by the first-order kinetics on the Ni species, which was different from the reduction kinetics of supported PdO species, which is a divalent metal oxide for the same family element. The different reduction kinetics is ascribed by the different atomic arrangement in the crystal structure between NiO and PdO.
Unit 3. Venous leg ulceration: effective management
Authors: Vowden Peter
Published: September 2015

Peter Vowden outlines key recommendations for effective leg ulcer assessment and management with reference to recent international consensus statements and guidelines
Unit 5. How to undertake a Doppler ultrasound
Authors: Young Trudie
Published: September 2015

Chronic venous leg ulceration is a symptom of an underlying disease process. Effective treatment depends on an accurate assessment, including the measurement of ankle brachial pressure index
Unit 2. Optimising inhaled therapy
Authors: Bostock-Cox Beverley
Published: September 2015

Appropriate use of inhaled therapy is essential to optimising quality of life. Practice nurses are ideally placed to offer support to patients
Unit 4. Reducing COPD exacerbations
Authors: Scullion Jane , Holmes Steve
Published: September 2015

The impact of exacerbations of COPD on patient quality of life can be huge. Practice nurses can help manage them with effective strategies.
Reaching parents effectively
Authors: Howard Emma
Published: September 2015

After a tough period for Alfreton Grange School, a clear focus was needed on rebuilding relationships with parents. Emma Howard explains some of the ‘quick wins’ that have been essential to this goal
Key Elements Supporting Goal Attainment for Transition-Age Young Adults: A Case Study Illustration From Project TEAM
Authors: Levin Melissa R. , Kramer Jessica M.
Published: September 2015

Project TEAM empowers trainees with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) to identify and respond to environmental barriers and includes an individualized component in which trainees work towards a goal. During individualized planning sessions and a community-based outing, the licensed professional follows a 5-step process to scaffold support. This case study explores how 2 transition-age trainees (male, age 19, ID; and female, age 18, Asperger's syndrome) progressed through Project TEAM's individualized component and identifies key elements that supported their achievement of community participation and postsecondary education goals. The 5-step process and the incorporation of universally designed materials appear to support goal attainment. Additional elements that may contribute to success include peer mentors, experiential learning opportunities, and individualized supports from the licensed professional.
Complex Jacobi Matrices and Gauss Quadrature for Quasi-definite Linear Functionals
Authors: Pozza Stefano , Pranić Miroslav , Strakoš Zdenek
Published: September 2015

The Gauss quadrature can be formulated as a method for approximation of positive definite linear functionals. The underlying theory connects several classical topics including orthogonal polynomials and (real) Jacobi matrices. In the poster we investigated the problem of generalizing the concept of Gauss quadrature for approximation of linear functionals which are not positive definite. We showed that the concept can be generalized to quasi-definite functionals and based on a close relationship with orthogonal polynomials and complex Jacobi matrices.
Lessons from a Federal Grant for School Diversity: Tracing a Theory of Change and Implementation of Local Policies
Authors: DeBray Elizabeth , McDermott Kathryn , Frankenberg Erica , Blankenship Ann Elizabeth
Published: September 2015

In 2009, the U.S. Department of Education made grants to eleven school districts under the Technical Assistance for Student Assignment Plans (TASAP) program. The impetus for the program came from the Council of Great City Schools, which was concerned that school districts would respond to a recent Supreme Court decision by dismantling policies with integrative aims. We analyze the design of the TASAP program, its implementation by the USED, and how the grantee districts used the funds, and find that TASAP’s effects were mixed. Five districts represented examples of “successful” implementation, using the grant funds in ways that prioritized diversity. Six demonstrated “subverted” implementation, using funds in ways that met local needs but moved away from the diversity goal.
The effect of motivational music on wingate anaerobic test performance
Authors: Işık Özkan , Ersöz Yasin , Pazan Murat , Ocak Yücel
Published: September 2015

The aim of this study is to examine the effect of the motivational music on the Wingate Anaerobic Test (WAnT) performance. 16 male students who studied at School of Physical Education and Sports, Kocatepe University participated in the study voluntarily. After demographic characteristics of the voluntaries [age, height, body weight (BW), body mass index (BMI)] were measured without music (pre-test) and with motivational music [>120 bpm (beats per minute)] conditions (post-test). For the analyses of the data; Wilcoxon Rank Test was used in order to detect the difference among the variables. As a result of the measurements taken in with and without music conditions; it was found out that there was a statistically significant difference on behalf of condition with music in terms of maximum anaerobic power (MaxAP), maximum anaerobic capacity (MAC), relative anaerobic power (RAP), relative anaerobic capacity (RAC) and fatigue index (FI) values (p<0,05), while there was no statistically significant difference in terms of minimum anaerobic power (MinAP) values (p>0,05). It was determined that the motivational music has positive effects on the WAnT performance. However; although it was seen that motivational music increased the WAnT performance, we were of the opinion that this effect emerged thanks to the increased psycho-physiological factors caused by music.
On Volterra functions and Ramanujan integrals
Authors: Garrappa Roberto , Mainardi Francesco
Published: September 2015

Volterra functions were introduced at the beginning of the twentieth century as solutions of some integral equations of convolution type with logarithmic kernel. Since then, few authors have studied this family of functions and faced with the problem of providing a clear understanding of their asymptotic behavior for small and large arguments. This paper reviews some of the most important results on Volterra functions and in particular collects, into a quite general framework, several results on their asymptotic expansions; these results turn out to be useful not only for the full understanding of the behavior of the Volterra functions but also for their numerical computation. The connections with integrals of Ramanujan type, which have several important applications, are also discussed.
Biofortification of maize with micronutrients
by Spirulina
Authors: Tuhy Łukasz , Samoraj Mateusz , Witkowska Zuzanna , Chojnacka Katarzyna
Published: September 2015

The aim of the present work was to examine the effect of the application of Spirulina platensis post-extraction residues enriched with Zn(II), Mn(II), Cu(II) via biosorption as micronutrient fertilizer for the biofortification of maize grains with micronutrients in field tests. As a nominal dose 2.5 kg ha-1 of zinc, 1.0 kg ha-1
of manganese and 0.5 kg ha-1 of copper were applied. The preparation was applied also in higher doses (150%, 200%) to investigate agronomic biofortification of maize grains.

In field trials, obtained grain yield (7.2 Mg ha-1 for Spirulina 100%) was higher than in control group (6.2 Mg ha-1) and commercial reference product (6.6 Mg ha-1). For the same dose of micronutrients, their bioavailability was higher for bio-preparations than for reference fertilizer. The highest content of micronutrients delivered to plants (2.15 mg kg-1 – Cu, 7.07 mg kg-1 – Mn, 29.0 mg kg-1 – Zn) was observed for maize grains fertilized with preparation of Spirulina 150%, which signifies that biofortified maize grain was obtained.
Corn grains biofortified with micronutrients can be used as staple food or feed preventing from micronutrient malnutrition. The application of micronutrient biocomponents based on Spirulina biomass allows to manufacture a valuable fertilizer with bioavailable micronutrients.
Effect of rifampicin pretreatment on the oral bioavailability of domperidone in healthy human volunteers
Authors: Devandla Adukondalu , Yamsani Shravan Kumar , Yamsani Madhusudan Rao
Published: September 2015

Background: Increased exsorption of domperidone was observed from different parts of the small intestine of the rat after pretreatment with rifampicin by the everted sac method. Based on the in vitro studies the effect of rifampicin pretreatment on the pharmacokinetics of domperidone was investigated in eight healthy male volunteers.

Methods: After an overnight fast, 20 mg domperidone was administered to the volunteers, either alone or after 6 days pretreatment with a once daily dose of 600 mg rifampicin. Serum concentrations of domperidone were estimated by reverse phase HPLC. Pharmacokinetic parameters were determined based on non-compartmental model analysis using the computer program kinetica.

Results: Rifampicin pretreatment decreased Cmax, AUCo-∞, AUMC, MRT and t1/2 by 25.11%, 37.76%, 64.97%, 43.71% and 44.48%, respectively. This may be due to increased induction of cytochrome P450 enzymes and/or increased expression of P-glycoprotein.

Conclusions: This interaction may have clinical significance when domperidone is co-administered with rifampicin in chronic treatment conditions, such as tuberculosis, leprosy and other infections of joints, bones, etc.
Surface characterization of trimethoxysilane-containing high-solid hydroxyl acrylic resin films
Authors: Zhu Fang , Zhang Gaoyong , Hong Xinlin , Dong Jinfeng
Published: September 2015

In recent years, organosilane-containing copolymers have attracted much attention in antifouling coatings, automotive coatings, fiber, composite materials, biomedical materials, and latex and protection coatings against corrosion owing to their excellent weathering and low surface energy. Trimethoxysilane-containing high-solid hydroxyl acrylic resin used for automotive coatings was prepared by in situ free radical polymerization. The surfaces of the resin film were characterized by solid surface energy, atomic force microscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) measurements. With the increase in silicone content from 0 to 2.5 wt.%, the surface energy of trimethoxysilane-containing hydroxyl acrylic copolymer films decreased from 49 to 40 mN/N and the surface roughness (Rms) on the surface of thin films increased from 0.427 to 0.887 Å. The XPS result indicated that the surface accumulation phenomena of silicone occurred in the surface of the thin films. The phenomena can explain the reason why the incorporation of trimethoxysilane (MPS) into acrylic copolymer by in situ polymerization can decrease its surface energy and increase its outdoor weathering.
A Dual Polarized Ultra-Wideband Slot Antenna Using Stepped Microstrip Feed Structure
Authors: Ram Krishna R. V. S. , Kumar Raj
Published: September 2015

In this paper, a printed slot antenna for ultra-wideband dual polarization is proposed and experimentally demonstrated. The slot is L-shape and its two arms are individually microstrip fed for producing the orthogonal polarizations. The slot arms and the microstrip feed lines are step sectioned for wideband impedance matching. For isolation purpose, a slant narrow metallic stub is inserted at the junction of the slot arms. The antenna has an impedance bandwidth of 118% (3.1–12 GHz) and isolation of around 20 dB over most of the band. The radiation patterns are nearly omnidirectional with a peak gain varying from 3 to 6 dBi. For assessing the diversity performance of the antenna, the envelope correlation coefficients are computed from the simulated and measured S-parameters and found to be within acceptable limits. With a compact, single substrate design, the antenna is expected to be useful for printed circuit ultra wideband applications requiring dual polarization features.
Pragmatics and mindreading: Forward and backward inferences in shared intentional contexts
Authors: Mazzone Marco
Published: September 2015

The general hypothesis discussed here is that pragmatic understanding is embedded in a more general understanding of action. To this purpose I first summarize ideas from Grice, Levinson and relevance theorists, all contributing to the view that utterance understanding is based on inferential recognition of the speakers’ communicative goals, and that this process may be affected backwards by expectations about non-communicative goals. I also provide reasons to think that the double dynamic of forward and backward inferences described by relevance theorists is present in action execution and observation as well, and that we construe shared intentional contexts which automatically mesh ours and others’ goals. Finally, the suggestion is made that, in order to account for the full contribution of mindreading to utterance understanding, Relevance Theory needs to consider not only the comprehension procedure in itself, but also the way in which it interacts with other external mechanisms.
Using the Bootstrap to Account for Linkage Errors when Analysing Probabilistically Linked Categorical Data
Authors: Chipperfield James O. , Chambers Raymond L.
Published: September 2015

Record linkage is the act of bringing together records that are believed to belong to the same unit (e.g., person or business) from two or more files. Record linkage is not an error-free process and can lead to linking a pair of records that do not belong to the same unit. This occurs because linking fields on the files, which ideally would uniquely identify each unit, are often imperfect. There has been an explosion of record linkage applications, particularly involving government agencies and in the field of health, yet there has been little work on making correct inference using such linked files. Naively treating a linked file as if it were linked without errors can lead to biased inferences. This article develops a method of making inferences for cross tabulated variables when record linkage is not an error-free process. In particular, it develops a parametric bootstrap approach to estimation which can accommodate the sophisticated probabilistic record linkage techniques that are widely used in practice (e.g., 1-1 linkage). The article demonstrates the effectiveness of this method in a simulation and in a real application.
Models for Combining Aggregate-Level Administrative Data in the Absence of a Traditional Census
Authors: Yildiz Dilek , Smith Peter W.F.
Published: September 2015

Administrative data sources are an important component of population data collection and they have been used in census data production in the Nordic countries since the 1960s. A large amount of information about the population is already collected in administrative data sources by governments. However, there are some challenges to using administrative data sources to estimate population counts by age, sex, and geographical area as well as population characteristics. The main limitation with the administrative data sources is that they only collect information from a subset of the population about specific events, and this may result in either undercoverage or overcoverage of the population. Another issue with the administrative data sources is that the information may not have the same quality for all population groups. This research aims to correct an inaccurate administrative data source by combining aggregate-level administrative data with more accurate marginal distributions or two-way marginal information from an auxiliary data source and produce accurate population estimates in the absence of a traditional census. The methodology developed is applied to estimate population counts by age, sex, and local authority area in England and Wales. The administrative data source used is the Patient Register which suffers from overcoverage, particularly for people between the ages of 20 and 50.
A Bayesian Approach to Population Estimation with Administrative Data
Authors: Bryant John R. , Graham Patrick
Published: September 2015

The article describes a Bayesian approach to deriving population estimates from multiple administrative data sources. Coverage rates play an important role in the approach: identifying anomalies in coverage rates is a key step in the model-building process, and data sources receive more weight within the model if their coverage rates are more consistent. Random variation in population processes and measurement processes is dealt with naturally within the model, and all outputs come with measures of uncertainty. The model is applied to the problem of estimating regional populations in New Zealand. The New Zealand example illustrates the continuing importance of coverage surveys.
Perrault syndrome with growth hormone deficiency: a rare autosomal recessive disorder
Authors: Agrawala Ritesh K. , Choudhury Arun K. , Mohanty Binoy K. , Baliarsinha Anoj K.
Published: September 2015

Perrault syndrome is a rare genetically heterogeneous autosomal recessive group of disorders described in 1951 by Perrault as gonadal dysgenesis with deafness. Here we present a rare case of sporadic Perrault syndrome with short stature and growth hormone deficiency (GHD). Although there was a report on partial GHD in Perrault, our case is a first of its kind with documented GHD (Nishi Y, Hamamoto K, Kajiyama M, Kawamura I. The Perrault syndrome: clinical report and review. Am J Med Genet 1988;31:623–9). We report this case because of the rarity of keeping this condition as a differential diagnosis while evaluating for short stature with amenorrhea.
Effects of adolescence-onset hypogonadism on metabolism, bone mineral density and quality of life in adulthood
Authors: Tam Friederike I.W. , Huebner Angela , Hofbauer Lorenz C. , Rohayem Julia
Published: September 2015

In a cross-sectional study of 54 patients with adolescence-onset hypogonadism (33 females, 21 males; age range: 19–40 years), medical care, quality of life, and health status were assessed. Most patients had received adequate medical care with short cumulative periods of interruption of hormone replacement. The prevalence of the metabolic syndrome was 27% in females and 19% in males. In comparison to the general population, females had both a lower bone mineral density (dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, Z-score=−0.8, p<0.001) and a higher prevalence of obesity (age 19–29 years: study population 35%, general population 4%). The body fat percentage (dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry) was significantly elevated (age 19–29 years: females Z-score=+1.8, p<0.001, males Z-score=+2.4, p=0.001). Quality of life (SF-36) was normal. Despite adequate treatment, patients with early-onset hypogonadism are prone to develop signs and symptoms consistent with inadequate hormone replacement. A successful transition from pediatric to adult medicine seems important to optimize treatment outcomes.
Evaluation of measured postpartum blood loss after vaginal delivery using a collector bag in relation to postpartum hemorrhage management strategies: a prospective observational study
Authors: Bamberg Christian , Niepraschk-von Dollen Katja , Mickley Laura , Henkelmann Anne , Hinkson Larry , Kaufner Lutz , von Heymann Christian , Henrich Wolfgang , Pauly Franziska
Published: September 2015

To evaluate the incidence of postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) and severe PPH via routine use of a pelvic drape to objectively measure blood loss after vaginal delivery in connection with PPH management.

This prospective observational study was undertaken at the obstetrical department of the Charité University Hospital from December 2011 to May 2013 and evaluated an unselected cohort of planned vaginal deliveries (n=1019 live singletons at term). A calibrated collecting drape was used to meassure blood loss in the third stage of labor. PPH and severe PPH were defined as blood loss ≥500 mL and ≥1000 mL, respectively. Maternal hemoglobin content was evaluated at admission to delivery and at the first day after childbirth.

During the study period, 809 vaginal deliveries were analysed. Direct measurement revealed a median blood loss of 250 mL. The incidences of PPH and severe PPH were 15% and 3%, respectively. Mean maternal hemoglobin content at admission was 11.9±1.1 g/dL, with a mean decrease of 1.0±1.1 g/dL. Blood loss measured after vaginal delivery correlated significantly with maternal hemoglobin decrease.

This study suggests that PPH incidence may be higher than indicated by population-based data. Underbuttocks drapes are simple, objective bedside tools to diagnose PPH. Blood loss should be quantified systematically if PPH is suspected.
Perception and Adoption of Change Management in Information Institutions: A Study from Croatia
Authors: Dukić Gordana
Published: September 2015

This paper explores the way in which professional staff employed in information institutions perceive changes and different aspects of change management. The research focuses on Croatian libraries, museums and archives, as public and non-profit organizations. The influence of five background variables (institution, gender, age, level of education, and position) was examined in the analysis. The results show that professionals are only partially satisfied with the changes in their institutions. The type of institution they work in, and the position in the management structure proved to be strong predictors of differences in satisfaction ratings. Factor analysis has revealed three factors: change management mechanisms, impact of change on users and local community, and importance and necessity of change. These factors represent the underlying constructs of the professional staff’s perceptions of change and change management. With respect to the background variables, employees generally have similar attitudes toward the latent factors. They are aware that change is important and that well managed changes improve effectiveness and efficiency. However, from their responses, it is clear that change management is not performed properly. Based on the extracted factors, the survey subjects are classified into four clusters. The study highlights some critical areas of change management in information institutions. Since theory and practice of change management in such organizations have been largely disregarded, the paper contributes to a better understanding of these issues.
School Libraries in South Africa and the Post-2015 Millennium Development Goals (MDGs)
Authors: Fombad Madeleine , Jiyane Glenrose V.
Published: September 2015

Although 2015 marks the target year for attaining the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and the United Nations member states are in the process of defining a global development framework to succeed these goals, the MDGs nevertheless remain a development tool for countries’ wider development planning frameworks. In South Africa, various sectors, institutions and organisations are making efforts to attain these goals. Accordingly, the library and information sector is well placed to contribute towards the realisation of the MDGs, as libraries provide a critical support structure for education, economic development and poverty eradication. As time runs out in terms of meeting the 2015 deadline, this paper seeks to demonstrate that school libraries may be instrumental in influencing the pace and extent of progress needed to realise the MDGs beyond 2015. The research on which this article is based adds to the body of knowledge advocating the importance of libraries in realising the MDGs. It will also generate insights for policymakers on the important role of school library in development.
A Brief Survey of the Book Trade in the Ottoman Empire
Authors: Erünsal İsmail E.
Published: September 2015

Although we have a PhD thesis (