bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Teaching presence in computer conferencing learning environments: Effects on interaction, cognition and learning uptake
Authors: Zhao Huahui , Sullivan Kirk P.H.
Published: December 2015

This exploratory study examined how the level and nature of teaching presence impacted two online forum discussions from three dimensions: participation and interaction, cognitive presence, and knowledge development via assimilating peer messages. Effects on participation and interaction were graphically depicted. Effects on cognitive presence and knowledge construction via assimilating messages were suggested via statistical analysis, followed by qualitative interpretations. Twenty‐six tertiary online learners with varied demographic backgrounds participated in the study for 6 weeks.

The results showed that the nature of teaching presence in the study, specified to teacher initiation, roles of teaching presence and means of making teaching presence, largely shaped the impact of teaching presence on learning. A higher level of teaching presence was observed to be associated with a lower level of student participation, peer interaction, cognitive presence and learning uptake. Based on the results, implications for integrating and researching teaching presence in computer conferences were provided.
Caution needed in altering the ‘optimum’ fluoride concentration in drinking water
Authors: Spencer A. John , Do Loc G.
Published: December 2015

The US Public Health Service has finalized its recommendation relating to community water fluoridation (Federal Panel on Community Water Fluoridation, US Department of Health and Human Services, 2015). It recommends an optimal concentration of 0.7 mg/l F based on their argument that this concentration provides the best balance of protection from dental caries while limiting the risk of dental fluorosis. The rationale for this recommendation can be questioned, particularly given the contrasting etiologies and impact on the community. Uncertainty surrounds the key evidence considered by the panel. This study argues that the panel should have exercised more caution and called for further research before reducing the ‘optimal’ concentration of fluoride in water supplies. Up‐to‐date data on caries and fluorosis trend by age group or birth cohort, analyses on attributable risk for fluorosis, data on individual and population impact of caries and fluorosis, water intake over an extended period across the seasons, and the curvilinear relationship of fluoride concentration in water supplies and caries protection would have all been desirable to inform the panel, given the foreshadowing of the recommendation in late 2011. Further, a wider range of policy directions to achieve the best balance of protection from dental caries while limiting the risk of dental fluorosis are available from the international literature. Assessment of these should have been more evident. There is a public health policy responsibility to monitor water fluoridation programs so as to achieve a near maximum reduction in dental caries without unacceptable levels of dental fluorosis. However, recommendations to alter existing policy need to be cognizant of the balancing of risk and protective exposures across the entire population and potentially all ages and to be based on recent data that are purposefully collected, critically analyzed and carefully interpreted.
Expanding the mutation and clinical spectrum of Roberts syndrome
Authors: Afifi Hanan H. , Abdel‐Salam Ghada M.H. , Eid Maha M. , Tosson Angie M.S. , Shousha Wafaa Gh. , Abdel Azeem Amira A. , Farag Mona K. , Mehrez Mennat I. , Gaber Khaled R.
Published: December 2015

Roberts syndrome and SC phocomelia syndrome are rare autosomal recessive genetic disorders representing the extremes of the spectrum of severity of the same condition, caused by mutations in ESCO2 gene. We report three new patients with Roberts syndrome from three unrelated consanguineous Egyptian families. All patients presented with growth retardation, mesomelic shortening of the limbs more in the upper than in the lower limbs and microcephaly. Patients were subjected to clinical, cytogenetic and radiologic examinations. Cytogenetic analysis showed the characteristic premature separation of centromeres and puffing of heterochromatic regions. Further, sequencing of the ESCO2 gene identified a novel mutation c.244_245dupCT (p.T83Pfs*20) in one family besides two previously reported mutations c.760_761insA (p.T254Nfs*27) and c.764_765delTT (p.F255Cfs*25). All mutations were in homozygous state, in exon 3. The severity of the mesomelic shortening of the limbs and craniofacial anomalies showed variability among patients. Interestingly, patient 1 had abnormal skin hypopigmentation. Serial fetal ultrasound examinations and measurements of long bones diagnosed two affected fetuses in two of the studied families. A literature review and case comparison was performed. In conclusion, we report a novel ESCO2 mutation and expand the clinical spectrum of Roberts syndrome.
A pilot single‐centre randomized trial assessing the safety and efficacy of lateral pararectus abdominis compared with transrectus abdominis muscle stoma placement in patients with temporary loop ileostomies: the PATRASTOM trial
Authors: Hardt J. , Seyfried S. , Weiß C. , Post S. , Kienle P. , Herrle F.
Published: December 2015

Aim

Transrectal stoma placement is considered the standard technique for positioning a stoma. A prospective series using a novel method of lateral pararectal stoma placement recently revealed a remarkably low stoma herniation rate. A randomized trial was conducted to compare the lateral pararectal with the transrectal stoma position with regard to parastomal herniation, stoma‐related morbidity and quality of life.

Method

Adult patients undergoing elective placement of a temporary loop ileostomy were eligible for inclusion. Patients were intra‐operatively randomized to undergo either a lateral pararectal or a transrectal ileostomy. The primary end‐point was the rate of parastomal herniation. Secondary end‐points included other stoma‐related complications and quality of life. Sample size calculation resulted in 54 patients having to be analysed to detect a difference of parastomal herniation of 30% with an 80% power and a 5% significance level. The trial was registered with the German Clinical Trials Register (registration number DRKS00003534).

Results

Between April 2012 and April 2014, 30 patients were randomized to each group. The incidence of parastomal herniation did not differ between the lateral pararectal (5 of 27) and the transrectal group (4 of 29; P = 0.725). There was also no significant difference regarding other stoma‐related complications and the EORTC quality of life scales C30 and CR29.

Conclusion

The incidence of parastomal herniation and other stoma‐related complications did not differ between the groups. However, due to the limited sample size a small difference in favour of one of the two stoma placement techniques cannot be entirely ruled out.
Service Composition and Execution Plan Generation of Composite Semantic WEB Services Using Abductive Event Calculus
Authors: Paulraj D. , Swamynathan S. , Chandran Daniel , Balasubadra K. , Prem M. Vigilson
Published: December 2015

Web Service composition is indispensable, as a single web service cannot satisfy the complex functional requirement of a user. The two key challenges of semantic web service composition are the discovery of the most relevant atomic services from the composite semantic web services and by no means we can assure the execution of the composed atomic services in a proper order. In this work, these two challenges are addressed, and a novel architecture is proposed for atomic service discovery, composition and automatic plan generation for the proper execution of its candidate services. The proposed architecture takes the advantage of abductive event calculus that uses abductive theorem prover to generate a plan for the proper order of execution of the atomic services. The research has found that the plan generated by the proposed architecture is sound and complete.
Predicting the Incremental Benefits of Online Information Search for Heterogeneous Consumers
Authors: Wang Hao , Guo Xunhua , Zhang Mingyue , Wei Qiang , Chen Guoqing
Published: December 2015

Consumer information search (CIS), the process by which a consumer browses and inspects a shopping environment for appropriate information to select a product or service from available options, has been a research focus in the context of online business. One of the key questions related to CIS is how to determine how much information to search (i.e., when to stop searching). Extensive literature on behavioral science has revealed that consumers often search either “too little” or “too much,” even with the help of existing consumer decision support systems (CDSSs). To address this issue, this article introduces a new method of CDSSs that provides effective estimation of incremental search benefits. The method, called the personalized distribution‐based prediction method (PDM), is developed from the perspective of machine learning and utilizes consumer preference information generated by collaborative filtering (CF) algorithms. In contrast to related methods that assume that all consumers follow the same distribution function in terms of product preference, the PDM method is designed to consider the diversified search behaviors of consumers through the incorporation of heterogeneous preference distribution functions. Experiments based on data provided by Netflix illustrate that the proposed method is effective and advantageous over existing applicable techniques. Theoretical analyses are also provided to explain the advantageous performance of PDM.
Vitamin D Attenuates Left Atrial Volume Changes in African American Males with Obesity and Prediabetes
Authors: Chacko Satish Jacob , Pauwaa Sunil , Barengolts Elena , Ciubotaru Irina , Kansal Mayank M.
Published: December 2015

Vitamin D deficiency is common among African Americans in the United States and is associated with increased cardiovascular disease risk. In this study, prediabetic African American males who were found to be vitamin D–deficient were randomized to vitamin D supplementation and assessed for changes in left atrial (LA) volume. Prediabetic African American males who were vitamin D–deficient (25(OH)D: 5.0–29 ng/mL) were randomized to high‐dose ergocalciferol or placebo. Echocardiography was performed at baseline and at 1 year. Ejection fraction (EF), septal and posterior wall thickness, LA area, LA length, LA volume, E, A, septal and lateral e' and a', deceleration time, and isovolumetric relaxation time were collected. Eighty‐one of 158 (51%) subjects received vitamin D2. Baseline characteristics were similar among both groups. In the placebo group, left atrial volume significantly increased on follow‐up (LA volume increased 6.3 mL, P = 0.0025). Compared with placebo group, the treatment group with ergocalciferol had attenuated increases in left atrial volume (LA volume increased 2.6 mL, P = 0.29). Changes in left atrial volume persisted when indexed to body surface area. There was no significant difference in other diastolic parameters and blood pressure between groups. In conclusion, vitamin D–deficient prediabetic African American males who were treated with high‐dose vitamin D2 were found to have attenuated increases in left atrial volume compared with controls over 12‐month follow‐up.
International Influences on Post‐Soviet Armenian Education
Authors: Terzian Shelley
Published: December 2015

This article analyses the most recent international influences on Armenian education, illustrating how international standards are driving post‐Soviet reform in the Armenian Secondary Schools. Since 1991, when Armenia became independent from the Soviet Union, organisations such as the World Bank and the Open Society Institute Assistance Foundation‐Armenia (OSIAF‐A) played a crucial role in creating and implementing the Armenian National Curriculum (Curriculum) and State Standards for Secondary Education throughout the education system. In addition, in 2005, the Armenian Government and the Ministry of Education signed the Bologna Process, affirming the alignment of higher education with the international standards of the EU.
The role of ubiquitin‐specific protease 14 (USP14) in cell adhesion‐mediated drug resistance (CAM‐DR) of multiple myeloma cells
Authors: Xu Xiaohong , Liu Jing , Shen Chaoyan , Ding Linlin , Zhong Fei , Ouyang Yu , Wang Yuchan , He Song
Published: December 2015

Objective

Cell adhesion‐mediated drug resistance (CAM‐DR) is one of the mechanisms underlying the drug resistance in multiple myeloma (MM). Ubiquitin‐specific protease 14 (USP14) is downregulated in the apoptotic model and upregulated in the adhesive model of MM. This study was undertaken to determine the role of USP14 in CAM‐DR of MM cells.

Methods

We examined the expression of USP14 in the apoptotic model of MM. The mechanism of USP14 in the process of apoptosis was further explored by flow cytometry assay and co‐immunoprecipitation. We then performed the cell co‐culture and adhesion assay and cell viability assay to investigate the effect of USP14 on adhesive rate and drug resistance in MM.

Results

We discovered that USP14 played a negative role in cell apoptosis, which is correlated with Bcl‐xl. Moreover, overexpression of USP14 in MM cell adhesion model could enhance the ability of cell adhesion by regulating Wnt‐signaling pathways, thereby promoting the CAM‐DR in MM.

Conclusion

USP14 participates in CAM‐DR of MM through acting as a bridge between Bcl‐xl apoptotic pathway and Wnt‐signaling pathways and may be represented as a good candidate for pursuing clinical trials in MM.
Effects of maternal dexamethasone treatment on pancreatic β cell function in the pregnant mare and post natal foal
Authors: Valenzuela O. A. , Jellyman J. K. , Allen V. L. , Holdstock N. B. , Fowden A. L.
Published: December 2015

Reasons for performing study

Synthetic glucocorticoids are used to treat inflammatory conditions in horses. In other pregnant animals, glucocorticoids are given to stimulate fetal maturation with long‐term metabolic consequences for the offspring if given preterm. However, their metabolic effects during equine pregnancy remain unknown.

Objective

Thus, this study investigated the metabolic effects of dexamethasone administration on pregnant pony mares and their foals after birth.

Study design

Experimental study.

Methods

A total of 3 doses of dexamethasone (200 μg/kg bwt i.m.) were given to 6 pony mares at 48 h intervals beginning at ≈270 days of pregnancy. Control saline injections were given to 5 mares using the same protocol. After fasting overnight, pancreatic β cell responses to exogenous glucose were measured in the mares before, during and after treatment. After birth, pancreatic β cell responses to exogenous glucose and arginine were measured in the foals at 2 and 12 weeks.

Results

In mares during treatment, dexamethasone but not saline increased basal insulin concentrations and prolonged the insulin response to exogenous glucose. Basal insulin and glucose concentrations still differed significantly between the 2 groups 72 h post treatment. Dexamethasone treatment significantly reduced placental area but had little effect on foal biometry at birth or subsequently. Foal β cell function at 2 weeks was unaffected by maternal treatment. However, by 12 weeks, pancreatic β cell sensitivity to arginine, but not glucose, was less in foals delivered by dexamethasone‐ than saline‐treated mares.

Conclusions

Dexamethasone administration induced changes in maternal insulin‐glucose dynamics, indicative of insulin resistance and had subtle longer term effects on post natal β cell function of the foals. The programming effects of dexamethasone in horses may be mediated partially by altered maternal metabolism and placental growth.
Cytotoxic, apoptotic, and sensitization properties of ent‐kaurane‐type diterpenoids from Croton tonkinensis Gagnep on human liver cancer HepG2 and Hep3b cell lines
Authors: Pham Minh Quan , Iscache Anne Laure , Pham Quoc Long , Gairin Jean Edouard
Published: December 2015

Human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common type of liver cancer, the second most common cause of death from cancer worldwide. A very poor prognosis and a lack of effective treatments make liver cancer a major public health problem, notably in less developed regions, particularly in eastern Asia. This fully justifies the search of new molecules and therapeutic strategies against HCC. Ent‐kaurane diterpenoids are natural compounds displaying a broad spectrum of potential therapeutic effects including anticancer activity. In this study, we analyzed the pharmacological properties of a family of ent‐kaurane diterpenoids from Croton tonkinensis Gagnep in human HepG2 and Hep3b cell lines, used as cellular reference models for in vitro evaluation of new molecules active on HCC. A structure‐related cytotoxicity was observed against both HCC cell lines, enlighting the role of the 16‐en‐15‐one skeleton of ent‐kaurane diterpenoids. Cytotoxicity was closely correlated to apoptosis, evidenced by concentration‐dependent subG1 cell accumulation, and increased annexin V expression. In addition, subtoxic concentration of ent‐kaurane diterpenoid dramatically enhanced the sensitivity of HCC cells to doxorubicin. All together, our data bring strong support to the potential interest of ent‐kaurane diterpenoids, alone or in combination with a cytotoxic agent, in cancer and more precisely against HCC.
Targeting myocardial reperfusion injuries with cyclosporine in the CIRCUS Trial – pharmacological reasons for failure
Authors: Monassier Laurent , Ayme‐Dietrich Estelle , Aubertin‐Kirch Gaëlle , Pathak Atul
Published: December 2015

The mitochondrial permeability transition (mPTP) is a key feature of cardiac cell death in ischaemia‐reperfusion injury (I/R). The mPTP blocker, cyclosporine A (CsA), has been shown to give protection against reperfusion‐induced myocardial necrosis and troubles generated by acute coronary artery repermeabilization. Nevertheless, the results of the CIRCUS trial (Does Cyclosporine Improve Clinical Outcome in ST‐Elevation Myocardial Infarction Patients) seem to go against this hypothesis. Pharmacological reasons linked to CsA pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics could be suggested. First, it could be explained by a limited diffusion of the drug in the area at risk, due to the only inclusion of patients with a TIMI 0 or 1 coronary blood flow in the anterior territory and the absence of collateral perfusion. Second, to explain a low tissue diffusion of the compound, blood cell capture and high metabolism could be suggested. Moreover, CsA is highly metabolized by cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4), a polymorphic enzyme leading to variations of Cmax and AUC between 10–20% in patients using CsA. Finally, CsA blocks calcineurin, a protein implied in I/R damage but calcineurin inhibition could contribute to protection towards I/R damage only when Rcan1, a calcineurin natural inhibitor, expression is low. The results of the CIRCUS trial are disappointing and could contribute to the withdrawal of the mPTP blockade pharmacological strategy as a way to protect the myocardium from I/R lesions. Nevertheless, many pharmacological insights could have contributed to an increased variability and, as a consequence, an important reduction of the pharmacological power of the study.
Analysis of mode II fractured surfaces of graphite/epoxy laminates using SEM and optical reflectivity methods
Authors: Wosu S. N. , Xie Q.
Published: December 2015

This paper presents a study of scanning electron microscope surface morphology and the reflectivity of the mode II fractured surface of graphite/epoxy laminates. A discrete number average method was developed for the quantitative characterization of hackles formation. The variation of hackle marks linear density with impact energy for end‐notch flexure and centre‐notch flexure for pure mode II loading were determined. The results indicated that hackles formation decreased with impact energy and the maximum hackles formation were observed at the centre area. Reflectivity was observed to be increased with the angle of reflection and decreased with impact energy, which is in agreement with the scanning electron microscope analysis. With the incident light scanned in the transverse direction, the intensity of the reflected light increases much more exponentially compared with along the fibre direction. Reflectivity in the fibre direction was clearly lower than in the transverse direction in the damaged area. The greater the damaged area, the less the intensity (reflectivity) of light reflected.
Associations between neurologic dysfunction and lesions in canine fucosidosis
Authors: Fletcher J. L. , Taylor R. M.
Published: December 2015

Canine fucosidosis in English Springer spaniels is the only animal model of the neurovisceral lysosomal storage disease fucosidosis available for preclinical therapeutic trials. For this reason, it is crucial to identify critical time points in disease progression, and if there are particular lesions associated with specific aspects of neurologic dysfunction. Historical records of 53 canine fucosidosis cases from 1979 to 2009 containing a neurologic dysfunction score assessing motor, behavioral and sensory dysfunction were interrogated by statistical analysis. Motor and behavioral dysfunction scores assessing gait deficits and apprehensive behavior first significantly increased at 12–17 months, and increased at each 6‐month interval thereafter. Sensory dysfunction scores, assessing hearing loss, balance and vision deterioration, did not significantly increase until 18–23 months, and coincided with a rapid decline in neurologic function. Regression analysis incorporating published neuropathology data, measured by image analysis, identified neuroinflammation and apoptotic cell death as significant informative predictors of increasing neurologic dysfunction. These findings indicate that the level of neuropathology required to induce consistent and conspicuous clinical signs in canine fucosidosis is reached by approximately 12 months of age in the absence of other disease processes. Significant association between neuroinflammation and apoptotic cell death also suggests that specifically targeting these lesions combined with enzyme replacement in future studies may reduce disease burden in fucosidosis. Overall, examining this historical clinical data to identify associations between the extent of neuropathology and degree of clinical dysfunction provides a useful reference tool for monitoring disease and evaluating therapeutic trials conducted in canine fucosidosis.
From the Margins to the Center: African American Women's and Gender History since the 1970s
Authors: Umoren Imaobong D.
Published: December 2015

African American women's and gender history emerged at the turn of the 20th century and developed in the wake of the civil rights, black power, and women's movements. Over the past five decades, the field has moved from the margins to the center of American history. This illustrative rather than exhaustive article examines the literature on African American women's and gender history since the 1970s. It argues that there have been two overlapping phases of African American women's and gender history. The first recovery phase focused on histories of slavery, black feminism, work, and activism. Many of these themes remained part of the second phase in African American women's and gender history that widened to focus on new themes, some of which emerged out of earlier methodologies. Moreover, this essay argues that emerging work is helping to connect the field to a wide array of topics, which promises to develop this increasingly interdisciplinary area of research.
The Implementation of Voting from Abroad: Evidence from the 2014 Turkish Presidential Election
Authors: Şahin‐Mencütek Zeynep , Erdoğan M. Murat
Published: December 2015

Voting from abroad (VFA) is a complex norm and practice due to the multilevel processes, structures and actors involved. This article explores the reasons behind the eventual adoption of this practice within the context of a long and well‐known history of emigration in Turkey. During the 2014 Turkish presidential election, emigrants from Turkey were finally allowed to participate from abroad even though legislation giving them this right has been in place since 1995. Based on archival research and fieldwork in Germany and the United States, this article discusses the varying relevance of three central explanatory factors to the implementation of VFA: emigrant lobbying, the electoral expectations of potential benefit by the governing party, and the presence of broader, state‐led diaspora engagement policies. The first of these is important but insufficient, whereas the second factor is necessary. Moreover, the presence of broader, state‐led diaspora engagement policies is a mediating factor. This article finds that specific actors like political parties may play the crucial role, highlighting the need for critical examination of their role in the implementation process.
Suicidality among Hong Kong nurses: prevalence and correlates
Authors: Cheung Teris , Lee Paul H. , Yip Paul S.F.
Published: December 2015

Aims

The study estimates the prevalence and examines the socio‐economic and psychological correlates of suicidality among professional nurses in Hong Kong.

Background

Suicide rates among middle‐aged employed groups have been increasing over the past few decades. There is a concern that medical occupational groups worldwide are at elevated risk of suicide. Nonetheless there are few population‐based studies of suicide dealing with working‐age Asian nurses.

Design

The study uses a cross‐sectional survey design.

Method

Data were collected in Hong Kong over 4 weeks from October–November 2013. Statistical methods including descriptive analysis and univariate and multivariate cumulative logit modelling were used to examine the weighted prevalence rates of past‐year suicidality and its associated factors in nurses.

Results

A total of 850 nurses participated in the study; 14·9% of participants had contemplated suicide while 2·9% had attempted suicide once or more in the past year. Women report suicidal thoughts or attempts more often than men. Religion, poor health, deliberate self‐harm, depressive symptoms and poor self‐perceived physical and mental health were significantly associated with nurses' suicidality.

Conclusions

Nurse professionals are not immune from mental health issues. Hong Kong's local health authority should put in place a raft of suicide prevention initiatives to promote mental wellness in the profession.
Empirical evolution of a framework that supports the development of nursing competence
Authors: Lima Sally , Jordan Helen L. , Kinney Sharon , Hamilton Bridget , Newall Fiona
Published: December 2015

Aim

The aim of this study was to refine a framework for developing competence, for graduate nurses new to paediatric nursing in a transition programme.

Background

A competent healthcare workforce is essential to ensuring quality care. There are strong professional and societal expectations that nurses will be competent. Despite the importance of the topic, the most effective means through which competence develops remains elusive.

Design

A qualitative explanatory method was applied as part of a mixed methods design.

Methods

Twenty‐one graduate nurses taking part in a 12‐month transition programme participated in semi‐structured interviews between October and November 2013. Interviews were informed by data analysed during a preceding quantitative phase. Participants were provided with their quantitative results and a preliminary model for development of competence and asked to explain why their competence had developed as it had.

Results

The findings from the interviews, considered in combination with the preliminary model and quantitative results, enabled conceptualization of a Framework for Developing Competence. Key elements include: the individual in the team, identification and interpretation of standards, asking questions, guidance and engaging in endeavours, all taking place in a particular context.

Conclusion

Much time and resources are directed at supporting the development of nursing competence, with little evidence as to the most effective means. This study led to conceptualization of a theory thought to underpin the development of nursing competence, particularly in a paediatric setting for graduate nurses. Future research should be directed at investigating the framework in other settings.
Examination of Several Physiological and Psychosocial Factors Potentially Associated With Masked Hypertension Among Low‐Risk Adults
Authors: Viera Anthony J. , Lin Feng‐Chang , Tuttle Laura A. , Olsson Emily , Girdler Susan S. , Hinderliter Alan L.
Published: December 2015

The authors examined the association of factors, in addition to prehypertensive office blood pressure (BP) level, that might improve detection of masked hypertension (MH), defined as nonelevated office BP with elevated out‐of‐office BP average, among individuals at otherwise low risk. This sample of 340 untreated adults 30 years and older with average office BP <140/90 mm Hg all had two sets of paired office BP measurements and 24‐hour ambulatory BP monitoring (ABPM) sessions 1 week apart. Other than BP levels, the only factors that were associated (at P<.10) with MH at both sets were male sex (75% vs 66%) and working outside the home (72% vs 59% for the first set and 71% vs 45% for the second set). Adding these variables to BP level in the model did not appreciably improve detection of MH. No demographic, clinical, or psychosocial measures that improved upon prehypertension as a potential predictor of MH in this sample were found.
Africa–EU Relations and Normative Power Europe: A Decolonial Pan‐African Critique
Authors: Staeger Ueli
Published: December 2015

The debate on NPE (Normative Power Europe) has flourished for more than a decade. NPE has shaped Africa–EU relations considerably, especially since the founding of the AU (African Union). Yet while the EU aspires to be a post‐imperial, normative power, this postcolonial critique suggests NPE is a neo‐Kantian, Eurocentric discourse that reinvigorates an outdated European moral paternalism. The article explores the role of NPE in Africa–EU relations through a Foucauldian conceptualization of knowledge in EU foreign policy, and insists particularly on how pan‐African regionalization and NPE led to unwarranted optimism about deploying European norms in Africa. To the contrary, a decolonial perspective reveals that AU–EU inter‐regional structural and organizational convergence enchains only frail normative convergence, which will diminish as the pan‐African project unfolds further.
Development and testing of two implementation tools to measure components of professional pharmacy service fidelity
Authors: Moullin Joanna C. , Sabater‐Hernández Daniel , García‐Corpas José P. , Kenny Patricia , Benrimoj Shalom I.
Published: December 2015

Rationale, aims and objectives

There is a need to evaluate both service process and implementation outcomes as professional services are being implemented into pharmacy practice. Fidelity is an implementation outcome, which may be used for service optimization, by associating service components to patient outcomes, as well as use in process evaluation. The objective of this study was to develop tools to measure components of fidelity, specifically, an adherence index (adherence of the service provider to the elements of the service) and a patient responsiveness scale for the professional pharmacy service,medication review with follow‐up.

Methods

The procedure described byDeVelliswas followed to develop the tools. An expert panel was used to create items and establish content validity. Primary data were collected from 190 service provider pharmacists from 128 pharmacies across 11 provinces ofSpain usingSpanish version tools as part of an ongoing implementation study (English translations appended to the online version of the article as supplementary material). An initial assessment of item functionality was performed using descriptive statistics and item discrimination for both tools. The patient responsiveness scale's internal consistency was confirmed by calculatingCronbach's alpha coefficient and inter‐item correlations. In addition, for the patient responsiveness scale, the number of factors to retain was based onKaiser criterion, parallel analysis andCattell's scree test and the number of items was optimized as guided by iterative exploratory factor analysis (EFA).

Results

Acceptability of both tools was high. An adherence index of 39 items was developed. After fiveEFAiterations, four items were removed, resulting in a reliable, 12‐item, two‐factor patient responsiveness scale, explaining 53.9% of total variance.

Conclusions

Two tools for measuring implementation fidelity, an adherence index and a patient responsiveness scale, have been developed and tested. Future assessment, in particular to establish criterion validity, is recommended.
Molecular characterization and expression pattern of dmrt1 in the immature Chinese sturgeon Acipenser sinensis
Authors: Leng X. Q. , Du H. J. , Li C. J. , Cao H.
Published: December 2015

In this study, the cDNA of dmrt1 gene from the Chinese sturgeon Acipenser sinensis was isolated and its expression pattern was characterized in different tissues of immature A. sinensis. By real‐time quantitative PCR (qrtPCR) analysis, the A. sinensis dmrt1 mRNA was detected mainly in gonad and with a higher level in the testis than the ovary, especially in 3 and 4 year‐old samples. This indicated that the dmrt1 expression exhibited gradual testis specificity with development. The subcellular localization analysis indicated that the Dmrt1 protein exists only in germ cells and not in somatic cells. These results suggest that A. sinensis dmrt1 might be a highly specific sex differentiation gene for testis development and spermatogenesis.
Enzymatic Extraction of Shea Butter: Optimization Study Using Response Surface Methodology
Authors: Ajala E.O. , Aberuagba F. , Olaniyan A.M. , Onifade K.R.
Published: December 2015

Enzymatic extraction of shea butter (SB) from its kernel was undertaken and characterized using standard methods. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) was used to determine the functional group of the extracted SB. In a preliminary study, SB was extracted using a mixture of enzymes, which had in equal proportion pectinase, α‐amylase, cellulase, glucoamylase and xylanase. The operating parameters of extraction temperature (50°C), time (180 min), water/seed ratio (6:1, w/w) and pH (5) were used for the study, which yielded 32.71% SB. However, using each of the enzymes for the extraction under the same operating parameters, pectinase yielded 31.40%, which was higher compared to the yield of other enzymes. Hence, pectinase was used to optimize the operating parameters using response surface methodology. A box behnken design was adopted to evaluate the effect of each of the parameters on percentage yield of SB. The result indicated that the parameters had significant effect on the yield of SB with R2, F and p value of 0.9994, 1,375.24 and 0.0001 respectively. The interactions of water/seed ratio with other parameters showed a significant effect at p < 0.0001. Based on this model, maximum yield of 42.95% SB was obtained at 50°C, 180 min and 7:1 water/seed ratio (w/w). The physico‐chemical properties of the extracted SB compared favorably well with SB extracted using other methods. The FTIR result indicated that the enzymatic treatment did not affect the chemical composition of the butter. Accordingly, enzymatic extraction can serve as a suitable method for SB extraction.

Practical Applications

The study investigated the effect of temperature, extraction time and water/seed ratio on yield of shea butter (SB) using enzymatic extraction method. The possible effect of the method on the quality of the SB was carried out. The study gave the optima operating conditions under which the optimum yield of SB can be obtained. This research finding revealed that the enzymatic extraction can replace solvent and traditional extraction of SB. The potential of this method of extraction is in term of high yield and maintenance of the physico‐chemical properties of the butter. The process therefore, can be employed in an industrial scale production of SB.
Physicochemical and Thermal Properties of Candy Crystals Prepared from Palmyra‐Palm Jaggery
Authors: Chauhan Leela , Prakash Kumar Satya , Srivastav P.P. , Bashir Khalid
Published: December 2015

Candy crystals prepared from palmyra palm were analyzed for various physical and chemical properties during processing. The scanning electron microscopy displayed smooth and clear crystals of varied sizes. As the temperature of the jaggery increased from 28C to 108.4C, there was a subsequent increase in the total soluble solids from 28.8 to 84°Brix. Thermal conductivity decreased from 0.44 to 0.14 W/mK, thermal diffusivity decreased from 0.31 × 10−6 to 0.05 × 10−6 m2/s and volumetric specific heat decreased from 1.35 × 103 to 0.64 × 103 kJ/m3⋅K. Thermal resistivity increased from 201.7 × 10−2 to 755.1 × 10−2 C⋅m/W. The maximum force taken as hardness was found to be 6,419 g. Power was found to be best for fitting the viscosity values (R2 = 0.93).

Practical Applications

The physicochemical properties, especially the crystalline structure of the foods, have much importance in the product quality and stability and mouth‐feel during consumption of the product. It was found that the physical and other engineering properties of the candy were temperature dependent. The effect of temperature on the density and viscosity could be very handy for preliminary equipment design. Palm jaggery is very valuable in terms of its health benefits, and this research will be very helpful for commercializing the jaggery‐based products.
A potential therapeutic effect of saikosaponin C as a novel dual‐target anti‐Alzheimer agent
Authors: Lee Tae Ho , Park Sungha , You Mi‐Hyeon , Lim Ji‐Hong , Min Sang‐Hyun , Kim Byeong Mo
Published: December 2015

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a chronic neurodegenerative disease and the risk of developing it increases with advancing age. In this study, we investigated the protective effects of saikosaponin C (SSc), one of the main bioactive components produced by the traditional Chinese herb, radix bupleuri, the root of Bupleurum falcatum, against AD in various neuronal models. Interestingly, we found that SSc has dual effects on AD by targeting amyloid beta (Aβ) and tau, two key proteins in AD. SSc significantly suppressed the release of both Aβ peptides 1–40 and 1–42 into cell culture supernatants, though it does not affect BACE1 activity and expression. SSc also inhibited abnormal tau phosphorylation at multiple AD‐related residues. Moreover, SSc seems to have beneficial effects on cellular tau function; it accelerated nerve growth factor‐mediated neurite outgrowth and increased the assembly of microtubules. In addition, SSc increased synaptic marker proteins such as synaptophysin and PSD‐95. Considering its various biological activities, our results suggest that SSc might be a novel therapeutic tool for treating human AD and other neurodegenerative diseases.

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Tau and amyloid beta are two key features in Alzheimer's disease. Saikosaponin C, an active component of Bupleuri Radix, inhibits abnormal tau phosphorylation and amyloid beta production, thereby promoting synaptic integrity. Saikosaponin C also prevents amyloid beta‐induced apoptosis in brain vascular endothelial cells. Therefore, Saikosaponin C may provide a new therapeutic strategy for treatment of neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's disease.
Architecture and functional ecology of the human gastrocnemius muscle‐tendon unit
Authors: Butler Erin E. , Dominy Nathaniel J.
Published: December 2015

The gastrocnemius muscle‐tendon unit (MTU) is central to human locomotion. Structural variation in the human gastrocnemius MTU is predicted to affect the efficiency of locomotion, a concept most often explored in the context of performance activities. For example, stiffness of the Achilles tendon varies among individuals with different histories of competitive running. Such a finding highlights the functional variation of individuals and raises the possibility of similar variation between populations, perhaps in response to specific ecological or environmental demands. Researchers often assume minimal variation in human populations, or that industrialized populations represent the human species as well as any other. Yet rainforest hunter‐gatherers, which often express the human pygmy phenotype, contradict such assumptions. Indeed, the human pygmy phenotype is a potential model system for exploring the range of ecomorphological variation in the architecture of human hindlimb muscles, a concept we review here.
Rectal indomethacin use in pain relief during hysterosalpingography: A randomized placebo controlled trial
Authors: Karaman Erbil , Çim Numan , Alkış İsmet , Yıldırım Abdullah , Yıldızhan Recep
Published: December 2015

Aim

To evaluate the effectiveness of a rectal nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drug (indomethacin) for pain relief during a hysterosalpingography (HSG).

Materials and Methods

This prospective, randomized study included 82 women divided randomly into two groups. The study group received self‐administered rectal indomethacin, while the control group received a placebo before the procedure. Degrees of pain were evaluated using the visual analog scale (VAS) at four different steps during the procedure and 30 min afterwards. The anxiety‐depression status of the patients was evaluated using a validated Turkish version of the Beck anxiety‐depression form before the procedure.

Results

There were no statistically significant differences in the demographic characteristics of patients. The mean pain scores during tenaculum application (step 2), cervical traction (step 3), contrast injection (step 4) and 30 min after the procedure, were significantly lower in the study than the control group (P < 0.05). Step 4 was the most painful in both groups (VAS scores 3.2 ± 0.6 study vs 5.3 ± 1.1 control). The mean pain score in step 4 for patients with abnormal HSG results was significantly higher than in patients with normal HSG results (P < 0.05). The mean anxiety and depression scores immediately before the procedure were not statistically different between the groups (P = 0.610 and P = 0.129, respectively).

Conclusion

Our study demonstrated a significant reduction in pain in patients who received a single rectal dose of indomethacin; therefore, we recommend the use of rectal indomethacin for reducing pain during a HSG procedure.
Perinatal and one‐year outcomes of non‐immune hydrops fetalis by etiology and age at diagnosis
Authors: Ota Shiyo , Sahara Jun , Mabuchi Aki , Yamamoto Ryo , Ishii Keisuke , Mitsuda Nobuaki
Published: December 2015

Aim

The prognosis for non‐immune hydrops fetalis (NIHF) is still poor despite progress in perinatal care. We have examined perinatal and 1‐year outcomes for NIHF in relation to gestational age at diagnosis and underlying etiology in order to identify predictors of mortality.

Methods

A retrospective review was conducted of 92 pregnancies with NIHF managed in hospital between 2000 and 2012. The gestational age at diagnosis, etiology, perinatal outcome, and 1‐year outcome were recorded, and their associations assessed.

Results

A total of 41 of 92 cases (45%) resulted in fetal death, 33 patients (36%) survived to 1 year, but only 15 of the 33 survivors were developmentally intact. Aneuploidy was the most common cause of NIHF (27%; 25/92). Of the 34 patients who were diagnosed before 22 weeks, 29 fetuses (85%) died, and four (12%) survived to 1 year without developmental delay. Meanwhile, of the 26 patients diagnosed after 30 weeks, 18 (69%) survived to 1 year. Of those 18, seven (27%) were developmentally intact. Approximately half of the pregnancies with cardiac anomalies (8/13) resulted in intrauterine fetal death (IUFD) or early neonatal death. Aneuploidy was associated with a high frequency of IUFD, and of the remaining five surviving newborns, three had developmental delay.

Conclusion

The prognosis for NIHF differs according to underlying etiology and gestational age at diagnosis. NIHF diagnosed early in gestation is associated with poor outcome. Knowledge of the primary etiology is important for counseling and therapy.
Detection of human papillomavirus infection in oral squamous cell carcinoma: a cohort study of Japanese patients
Authors: Kouketsu Atsumu , Sato Ikuro , Abe Satoko , Oikawa Mariko , Shimizu Yoshinaka , Takahashi Tetsu , Kumamoto Hiroyuki
Published: December 2015

Objective

Recent evidence suggests that human papillomavirus (HPV)‐related head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is a separate HNSCC subgroup with distinct epidemiology, histopathological characteristics, therapeutic response to chemotherapy and radiation, and clinical outcome. This study aimed to investigate the role of HPV infection in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) and the correlation between HPV infection, tumor suppressor protein p16 expression, and clinicopathological features in Japanese patients.

Methods

In total, 174 OSCC specimens were examined for p16 levels by immunohistochemistry, and p16‐positive OSCCs were analyzed for HPV DNA by in situ hybridization (ISH) and HPV genotypes by real‐time PCR. The results were evaluated for the association with clinicopathological characteristics of OSCC patients.

Results

Twenty‐four OSCC samples were found positive for p16 expression; all of them were well‐differentiated tumors. P16 immunoreactivity was significantly associated with the invasion depth and tended to correlate with sex, site in the oral cavity, stromal reaction, TNM stage, and survival. HPV DNA was detected in 13 of 24 (54%) p16‐positive OSCC by real‐time PCR; HPV 16, 18, and other high‐risk genotypes were the most prevalent. However, ISH failed to detect HPV DNA in p16‐positive OSCCs.

Conclusion

P16 immunoreactivity and HPV genotyping by real‐time PCR may be useful markers of HPV infection in OSCC. However, although HPV‐related OSCC showed good outcomes, HPV infection may have a minor role in oral oncogenesis in Japanese patients.