bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gadolinium(III) Ion‐Selective Electrode Based on 3‐Methyl‐1H‐1,2,4‐triazole‐5‐thiol
Authors: Zamani Hassan Ali , Behmadi Hossein
Published: March 2012

The 3‐methyl‐1H‐1,2,4‐triazole‐5‐thiol (MTH) was used as a suitable ionophore for fabrication of a new gadolinium(III) ion selective potentiometric sensor. Nitrobenzene (NB) was used as plasticizing solvent mediator and sodium tetraphenyl borate (NaTPB) as an anion excluder. It displays a Nernstian response (19.8± 0.4 mV/decade) in the concentration range of 1.0×10-7 to 1.0×10-2 M with the detection limit of 7.3×10-8 M. The sensor has a very short response time (<10s) and can be used the pH range of 2.9‐8.4. electrode was successfully applied as an indicator for gadolinium determination in titration with EDTA.
Platinum Nanoparticles Loaded on Activated Carbon as Novel Adsorbent for the Removal of Congo Red
Authors: Ghaedi M. , Hossaini S. J. , Ramezani S.
Published: March 2012

Platinum nanoparticles loaded on activated carbon as novel adsorbent was successfully applied for efficient removal of congo red. The influences of effective parameters including contact time, pH and temperature, amount of adsorbents and concentration of initial dye on the efficiency of removal of congo red from aqueous solution were investigated. Adsorption experiments indicate that the extent of adsorption is strongly dependent on pH of solution. Thermodynamic parameters like Free energy of adsorption, enthalpy and entropy changes were calculated to know the nature of adsorption. The calculated values of free energy of adsorption (negative value) indicate that the adsorption process is spontaneous. The estimated values of enthalpy and entropy both show the positive sign, which indicate that the adsorption process is endothermic and the dye molecules are organized on the adsorbent surface in more randomly fashion than in solution. Fitting experimental data to different kinetic models including first order, pseudo second order and Elovich and intra‐particle diffusion models shows that the rate of dye adsorption follows pseudo second order model and involvement of intera‐ particle diffusion mechanism.
Early Intervention Combined with Targeted Treatment Promotes Cognitive and Behavioral Improvements in Young Children with Fragile X Syndrome
Authors: Winarni Tri Indah , Schneider Andrea , Borodyanskara Mariya , Hagerman Randi J.
Published: March 2012

Fragile X syndrome (FXS) is the most common inherited cause of intellectual disability due to an expansion in the full mutation range (>200 CGG repeats) of the promoter region of theFMR1gene leading to gene silencing. Lack of FMRP, a critical protein for dendritic spine formation and maturation, will cause FXS. Early environmental enrichment combined with pharmacological intervention has been proven to rescue dendritic spine abnormalities in the animal model of FXS. Here we report on 2 young children with FXS who were treated early with a combination of targeted treatment and intensive educational interventions leading to improvement in their cognition and behavior and a normal IQ.
Synthesis, Characterization, Biological Activity and DNA Binding Studies of Metal Complexes with 4‐Aminoantipyrine Schiff Base Ligand
Authors: Anupama B. , Padmaja M. , Kumari C. Gyana
Published: March 2012

A new series of transition metal complexes of Cu(II),Ni(II),Co(II), Zn(II) and VO(IV) have been synthesized from the Schiff base ligand (L) derived from 4‐amino antipyrine and 5‐ bromo salicylaldehyde. The structural features of Schiff base and metal complexes were determined from their elemental analyses, thermogravimetric studies, magneticsusceptibility, molar conductivity, ESI‐Mass, IR, UV‐VIS, 1H NMR and ESR spectral studies. The data show that the complexes have composition of ML2 type. The UV‐VIS, magnetic susceptibility and ESR spectral data suggest an octahedral geometry around the central metal ion. Biological screening of the complexes reveals that the Schiff base transition metal complexes show significant activity against microorganisms. Binding of Co(II) complex with calf thymus DNA (CT DNA) was studied by spectral methods.
Ab Initio Study of Atropisomers of Derivatives of N‐Benzyl‐2‐phenylpyridinium Ions
Authors: Nemati Firouzeh , Kiani Hossein
Published: March 2012

Ab initio calculation at RHF/6‐31G* level of theory for geometry optimization of conformers of N‐benzyl‐2‐phenylpyridinium ions are reported. The series of electron‐withdrawing and electron‐donating groups have been replaced by 3‐H phenyl and benzyl of N‐benzyl‐2‐phenylpyridinium ions and the energy difference between the syn‐ and anti‐ forms discussed in terms of π‐π stacking.
Transition Metal Complexes of Isonicotinoyl–hydrazone‐4‐diphenylaminobenzaldehyde: Synthesis, Characterization and Antimicrobial Studies
Authors: Mitu L. , Ilis M. , Raman N. , Imran M. , Ravichandran S.
Published: March 2012

A series of complexes of Cu(II), Ni(II), Co(II), Mn(II) and Cd(II) with Isonicotinoylhydrazone‐4‐diphenylaminobenzaldehyde (INHDAB) has been reported. The complexes have been characterized by analytical data, IR, UV‐Vis, NMR spectra, magnetic susceptibility values, thermal analysis and for the Cu(II) complex the ESR spectrum has been registered. The biological activity of these complexes were investigated against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Salmonella enteritidis and Shigella flexneri bacteria. The INHDAB ligand is coordinate at the metallic ions by oxygen amide (O=C) and the azomethine nitrogen.

Erratum to “Transition Metal Complexes of Isonicotinoyl–hydrazone-4-diphenylaminobenzaldehyde: Synthesis, Characterization and Antimicrobial Studies”dx.doi.org/10.1155/2012/759758
Phytochemical and Mineral Screening of Zanthoxylum Tetraspermum (W & A)
Authors: Narayanasamy K. , Ragavan B.
Published: March 2012

The present study reveals the phytochemical and mineral screening of Zanthoxylum tetraspermum W & A., a member of the family ‘Rutaceae’, which is used for treating microbial infections, antifungal activities and tooth ache. The preliminary screening of phytochemicals, thin layer chromatographic (TLC) profile of secondary metabolites and minerals from the stem bark of Zanthoxylum tetraspermum have shown the presence of various important secondary metabolites such as alkaloids, flavonoids, glycosides, Phenols, sterols, saponins, tannins in higher levels in hydroethnolic and aqueous extracts and some minerals in the plant extract. The generated data has provided the basis for its therapeutic value and can be used as a therapeutant.
Determination of Nd3+ Ions in Solution Samples by a Coated Wire Ion‐Selective Sensor
Authors: Zamani Hassan Ali
Published: March 2012

A new coated wire electrode (CWE) using 5‐(methylsulfanyl)‐3‐phenyl‐1H‐1,2,4‐triazole (MPT) as an ionophore has been developed as a neodymium ion‐selective sensor. The sensor exhibits Nernstian response for the Nd3+ ions in the concentration range of 1.0×10−6‐1.0×10−2 M with detection limit of 3.7×10−7 M. It displays a Nernstian slope of 20.2±0.2 mV/decade in the pH range of 2.7–8.1. The proposed sensor also exhibits a fast response time of ∼5 s. The sensor revealed high selectivity with respect to all common alkali, alkaline earth, transition and heavy metal ions, including members of the lanthanide family other than Nd3+. The electrode was used as an indicator electrode in the potentiometric titration of Nd(III) ions with EDTA. The electrode was also employed for the determination of the Nd3+ ions concentration in water solution samples.
Spectrophotometric Determination of Antidepressant Drug Duloxetine in Pharmaceutical Preparations using π‐Acceptors
Authors: Toker Sidika Ertürk , Önal Armagan
Published: March 2012

In this study, two simple and accurate spectrophotometric methods were presented for the determination of duloxetine hydrochloride (DLX) in pharmaceutical preparations. The methods were based on the reaction of DLX as n‐electron donor with 2,3‐dichloro‐5,6‐dicyano‐1,4‐benzoquinone (DDQ) and 7,7,8,8‐tetracyanoquinodimethane (TCNQ) as π‐acceptors to give highly colored complex species. The colored products were quantitated spectro‐photometrically at 477 and 841 for DDQ, TCNQ, respectively. All variables were studied in order to optimize the reaction conditions. Beer′s law was obeyed in the concentration ranges 10.0‐50.0 and 15‐60 μg mL−1 for DDQ and TCNQ method, respectively. The proposed methods have been successfully applied to the pharmaceutical analysis without any interference from excipients. The suggested procedures could be used for the determination of DLX in pharmaceutical preparations being sensitive, simple and selective.
Chemical Composition, Toxicity and Vasodilatation Effect of the Flowers Extract ofJasminum sambac(L.) Ait. “G. Duke of Tuscany”
Authors: Kunhachan Phanukit , Banchonglikitkul Chuleratana , Kajsongkram Tanwarat , Khayungarnnawee Amonrat , Leelamanit Wichet
Published: March 2012

Phytochemical analysis of the ethanolic Jasmine flower extract ofJasminum sambac(L.) Ait. “G. Duke of Tuscany” revealed the mixtures of coumarins, cardiac glycosides, essential oils, flavonoids, phenolics, saponins, and steroids. However, alkaloids, anthraquinones, and tannins were not detected. By intravenous injection at a single dose of 0.5 mL/mouse (15 mg) of the flower extract, no systemic biological toxicity demonstrated in ICR mice was observed. In Wistar rats, the LD50of the extract was higher than 5,000 mg/kg BW by oral administration. Vasodilatation effect of the 95% ethanolic extract on isolated aortic rats was also investigated. Compared with the control group, the Jasmine flowers extract in 0.05% DMSO clearly reduced tonus of isolated endothelium thoracic aortic rings preconstricted with phenylephrine (10−6 M), as a dose-dependent manner. Nevertheless, this pharmacological effect disappeared after the preincubation of the rings with atropine (10−6 M) or withNω-nitro-L-arginine (10−4 M). These are possibly due to the actions of the active components on the vessel muscarinic receptors or by causing the release of nitric oxide.
Adsorption Study of Cobalt on Treated Granular Activated Carbon
Authors: Hete Y. V. , Gholase S. B. , Khope R. U.
Published: March 2012

This study is carried out for the removal of cobalt from aqueous solution using granular activated carbon in combination with p‐nitro benzoic acid at temperature 25±1 °C. The adsorption isotherm of cobalt on granular activated carbon has been determined and the data fitted reasonably well to the Langmuir and Freundlich isotherm for activated carbon.
Acoustical Studies on the Ternary Mixture of 1, 4‐ Dioxane + Chloroform + Cyclohexane liquid Mixtures At 303.15, 308.15 and 313.15 K
Authors: Vanathi V. , Mullainathan S. , Nithiyanantham S.
Published: March 2012

Ultrasonic velocity, density and viscosity of the ternary mixture of 1, 4‐ dioxane + chloroform + cyclohexane, were measured at 303.15, 308.15 and 313.15 K. The thermodynamical parameters such as adiabatic compressibility (β), intermolecular free length (Lf), free volume (Vf), internal pressure (πi), acoustic impedance (Z), molar sound velocity (R) and molar compressibility (W) have been obtained from the experimental data for all the mixtures, with a view to investigate the exact nature of molecular interaction. Adiabatic compressibility and intermolecular free length decrease with increase in concentration and temperature. The other parameters show almost increasing concentration of solutes. These parameters have been further used to interpret the molecular interaction part of the solute and solvent in the mixtures.
Synthesis of 3‐(1, 3‐Diphenyl‐1H‐pyrazol‐4‐yl) Propanoic Acids Using Diimide Reduction
Authors: Deepa M. , Babu V. Harinadha , Parameshwar R. , Reddy B. Madhava
Published: March 2012

Pyrazole‐1H‐4‐yl‐acrylic acids (3a-j) were prepared from pyrazole‐1H‐4‐carbaldehydes which in turn were prepared by the Vilsmeier‐Haack reaction of phenyl hydrazone derivatives (1a-j). The reaction of pyrazole‐1H‐4‐yl‐acrylic acids to 3‐(1, 3‐diphenyl‐1H‐pyrazol‐4‐yl) propanoic acids (4a-j) was carried out using Pd‐charcoal and diimide methods and % yields were compared. Though the yields may be slightly less in diimide method, the method was found to be economical, highly effective with simple operating procedure.
Quality-Shaping Factors and Endodontic Treatment amongst General Dental Practitioners with a Focus on Denmark
Authors: Demant Sune , Markvart Merete , Bjørndal Lars
Published: March 2012

There is a gap between the endodontic outcome that can be achieved and the outcome observed on the basis of worldwide general dental practitioner data. The quality of root canal treatment (RCT) is shaped by the dentist's knowledge, attitude, and skills, but it may also be influenced by the patient's demands and degree of satisfaction. The topic has only been sparsely investigated. Although dental health has increased over the years in Denmark, the number of performed root fillings has also increased, probably because the number of tooth extractions have declined and more molar teeth have been treated. Caries appears to be the main cause for performing RCT and a preventive approach by employing stepwise excavation may reduce RCT, but this strategy does not remove the gap. Factors influencing RCT quality could be the status on adoption of nickel-titanium rotary technology, more focus on infection control (rubber dam use, knowledge of factors important for prognosis), as dentists often think that they are good at doing RCT, but often perform inadequately, an alteration of clinician's awareness of their performance in the context of dental practices, seems warranted. Finally, the development of new preventive modalities for pulp and apical inflammation are crucial.
Simulating Pattern-Process Relationships to Validate Landscape Genetic Models
Authors: Shirk A. J. , Cushman S. A. , Landguth E. L.
Published: March 2012

Landscapes may resist gene flow and thereby give rise to a pattern of genetic isolation within a population. The mechanism by which a landscape resists gene flow can be inferred by evaluating the relationship between landscape models and an observed pattern of genetic isolation. This approach risks false inferences because researchers can never feasibly test all plausible alternative hypotheses. In this paper, rather than infer the process of gene flow from an observed genetic pattern, we simulate gene flow and determine if the simulated genetic pattern is related to the observed empirical genetic pattern. This is a form of inverse modeling and can be used to independently validate a landscape genetic model. In this study, we used this approach to validate a model of landscape resistance based on elevation, landcover, and roads that was previously related to genetic isolation among mountain goats (Oreamnos americanus) inhabiting the Cascade Range, Washington (USA). The strong relationship between the empirical and simulated patterns of genetic isolation we observed provides independent validation of the resistance model and demonstrates the utility of this approach in supporting landscape genetic inferences.
Kinetics and Mechanism of Oxidation of t‐Butylbenzylamine by Diperiodatoargentate(III) in Aqueous Alkali
Authors: Angadi Mahantesh A. , Tuwar Suresh M.
Published: March 2012

t‐Butylbenzylamine (t‐BA) is used as a free base in the synthesis of salbutamol drug. Its mechanism of oxidation was proposed from kinetic studies. The kinetics of oxidation of t‐butylbenzylamine by diperiodatoargentate(III) (DPA) was studied spectrophotometrically by monitoring decrease in absorbance of DPA. The reaction was found to be first order each in [DPA] and [t‐BA]. The effect of alkali concentration in a wide range on rate of reaction was studied. The rate of reaction was found to be increased with increase in [OH–] in the lower range of [OH–], decreasing effect in the middle range and at higher range again increasing effect on rate of reaction was observed. The added periodate retarded the rate of reaction. The polymerization test revealed that oxidation was occurred with the intervention free radical. A suitable mechanism was proposed for a middle range of [OH–]. The active species of silver(III) periodate for all the three different stages of [OH–] are assayed. Rate law was derived and verified. The oxidative product of t‐BA was characterized by LC‐ESI‐MS spectra.
Modal Tilt/Translate Control and Stability of a Rigid Rotor with Gyroscopics on Active Magnetic Bearings
Authors: Dimond Timothy , Allaire Paul , Mushi Simon , Lin Zongli , Yoon Se Young
Published: March 2012

Most industrial rotors supported in active magnetic bearings (AMBs) are operated well below the first bending critical speed. Also, they are usually controlled using proportional, integral and derivative controllers, which are set up as modally uncoupled parallel and tilt rotor axes. Gyroscopic effects create mode splitting and a speed-dependent plant. Two AMBs with four axes of control must simultaneously control and stabilize the rotor/AMB system. Various analyses have been published considering this problem for different rotor/AMB configurations. There has not been a fully dimensionless analysis of these rigid rotor AMB systems. This paper will perform this analysis with a modal PD controller in terms of translation mode and tilt mode dimensionless eigenvalues and eigenvectors. The number of independent system parameters is significantly reduced. Dimensionless PD controller gains, the ratio of rotor polar to transverse moments of inertia and a dimensionless speed ratio are used to evaluate a fully general system stability rigid rotor analysis. An objective of this work is to quantify the effects of gyroscopics on rigid rotor AMB systems. These gyroscopic forces reduce the system stability margin. The paper is also intended to help provide a common framework for communication between rotating machinery designers and controls engineers
Revisiting Thyroid Hormones in Schizophrenia
Authors: Santos Nadine Correia , Costa Patrício , Ruano Dina , Macedo António , Soares Maria João , Valente José , Pereira Ana Telma , Azevedo Maria Helena , Palha Joana Almeida
Published: March 2012

Thyroid hormones are crucial during development and in the adult brain. Of interest, fluctuations in the levels of thyroid hormones at various times during development and throughout life can impact on psychiatric disease manifestation and response to treatment. Here we review research on thyroid function assessment in schizophrenia, relating interrelations between the pituitary-thyroid axis and major neurosignaling systems involved in schizophrenia’s pathophysiology. These include the serotonergic, dopaminergic, glutamatergic, and GABAergic networks, as well as myelination and inflammatory processes. The available evidence supports that thyroid hormones deregulation is a common feature in schizophrenia and that the implications of thyroid hormones homeostasis in the fine-tuning of crucial brain networks warrants further research.
Pulmonary Rehabilitation Using Modified Threshold Inspiratory Muscle Trainer (IMT) in Patients with Tetraplegia
Authors: Yasar Funda , Tasci Canturk , Savci Sema , Tozkoparan Ergun , Deniz Omer , Balkan Arzu , Bilgic Hayati
Published: March 2012

It is aimed to present the usefulness of inspiratory muscle trainer (IMT) in treatment of a 20-year-old male patient with diaphragmatic paralysis and tetraplegia due to spinal cord injury (SCI), and supporting effect of IMT in recovering from respiratory failure by rendering his diaphragm functions. The treatment was applied through the tracheostomy cannula by a modified IMT device. After applying IMT for three weeks, it was observed that the diaphragm recovered its functions in electromyography (EMG) test. As a result, in this study, we present a case where a patient could live without any respiratory device for the rest of his life with the help of modified IMT.
Identification of Histoplasma-Specific Peptides in Human Urine
Authors: Crockett David K. , Kushnir Mark M. , Cloud Joann L. , Ashwood Edward R. , Rockwood Alan L.
Published: March 2012

Histoplasmosis is a severe dimorphic fungus infection, which is often difficult to diagnose due to similarity in symptoms to other diseases and lack of specific diagnostic tests. Urine samples from histoplasma-antigen-positive patients and appropriate controls were prepared using various sample preparation strategies including immunoenrichment, ultrafiltration, high-abundant protein depletion, deglycosylation, reverse-phase fractions, and digest using various enzymes. Samples were then analyzed by nanospray tandem mass spectrometry. Accurate mass TOF scans underwent molecular feature extraction and statistical analysis for unique disease makers, and acquired MS/MS data were searched against known human and histoplasma proteins. In human urine, some 52 peptides from 37 Histoplasma proteins were identified with high confidence. This is the first report of identification of a large number of Histoplasma-specific peptides from immunoassay-positive patient samples using tandem mass spectrometry and bioinformatics techniques. These findings may lead to novel diagnostic markers for histoplasmosis in human urine.
Clarithromycin-Induced Long QT Syndrome: A Case Report
Authors: Cetin Mecnun , Yıldırımer Munevver , Özen Serkan , Tanrıverdi Sema , Coskun Senol
Published: March 2012

Long QT syndrome develops for a number of reasons. The number of non-antiarrhythmic drugs reported to induce QT interval prolongation with or without torsade de pointes continues to increase. Clarithromycin is a macrolide antibiotic being increasingly used for the treatment of atypical pneumonia. In this paper, we describe a patient who developed long QT prolongation syndrome after receiving clarithromycin for the treatment of atypical pneumonia.
Accidental Intrathecal Injection of Tranexamic Acid
Authors: Mahmoud Khaled , Ammar Amany
Published: March 2012

Tranexamic acid (TXA) is a popular antifibrinolytic drug that is commonly used in patients with bleeding disorder. Major morbidities and mortalities have been reported following inadvertent intrathecal injection of TXA. In this paper, inadvertent intrathecal injection of TXA has resulted from similarities in appearance between TXA and heavy bupivacaine 0.5% ampoules. The patient experienced severe pain in the back and gluteal region upon injection in association with systemic hypertension and tachycardia followed by generalized myoclonic seizures and ventricular fibrillation.
Study of Physicochemical Parameters of Groundwater Quality of Kopargaon Area, Maharastra State, India duringPre‐monsoon and Post‐monsoon Seasons
Authors: Dandwate Sunita R.
Published: March 2012

The physicochemical parameters were studied for water samples collected from different locations in Kopargaon area; It is one of the important taluka of Ahmednagar district, Maharastra state, India. The main purpose of the study was to ascertain the quality of water for drinking from selected locations. Assessment of water quality was done by comparing the parameters with standard values prescribed by different agencies. Most of the parameters were found within permissible limits of above standards. Correlation co‐efficient ‘r’ was calculated for these parameters.
A Validated RP‐HPLC Method for the Determination of Citrinin in Xuezhikang Capsule and other Monascus‐Fermented Products
Authors: Xue-Mei Li , Xing-Hai Shen , Lan Xue , Zhen-Wen Duan , Shu-Ren Guo
Published: March 2012

Citrinin is a toxic product usually produced during the Monascus fermentation. The presence of citrinin in xuezhikang capsule has been a concern due to its ingredient which is derived from monascus‐fermented rice. A rapid and sensitive RP‐HPLC method with fluorescence detection at λex = 331 nm and λem = 500 nm for analysis of citrinin in Monascus‐fermented products was developed to analyze citrinin in Monascus‐fermented products. The chromatography was performed with mobile phase containing acidified water and acetonitrile. The calibration curve was linear (r = 0.9999) over a range of 0.0107‐ 0.537 μg/mL. The limit of detection (LOD) and the limit of quantitation (LOQ) were 0.187 ng/mL and 0.6 ng/mL respectively. The analysis of xuezhikang capsules using the developed method suggested that the product does not contain detectable citrinin and the result has been further confirmed using independent LC‐MS/MS analysis. The proposed method has also been applied to analyze 11 samples of other Monascus‐fermented products. The results suggested that there were no detectable citrinin in 4 of the 11 samples, however citrinin with the levels between 0.10‐594 ng/kg has been detected in the other 7 samples. It indicates that the proposed method can also be applied to carry out the quantitative detection of citrinin for other Monascus‐fermented products.
Osteonevus of Nanta Presenting as Nodule over Left Eyebrow
Authors: Kamat Girish , Myageri Aneel , Rao Ravikala
Published: March 2012

Osteonevus of Nanta is a rare histopathological finding in which there is an ectopic bone formation in intradermal nevus. Very few cases have been reported so far in the literature. We present a case of osteonevus of Nanta, which occurred as a nodule over the left eyebrow in a 52-year-old female patient. Simple excision proved to be curative in the present case.
Spectrophotometric Determination of Zidovudine in Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms
Authors: Reddy J. Sudhakar , Ahmed MD. S. Maqsood , Chakravarthy I. E. , Prabhavathi K.
Published: March 2012

A simple, sensitive and economical spectrophotometric method has been developed for the determination of zidovudine in commercial dosage forms. The method was based on the formation of chloroform extractable complex of zidovudine with wool fast blue. The absorbance of the extractable ion pair complex is measured at the wavelength of maximum absorbance 590 nm against the reagent blank treated similarly. Statistical analysis proves that the proposed methods are reproducible and selective for the estimation of zidovudine in bulk drug and in its tablet dosage form.
SiC Devices for Renewable and High Performance Power Conversion Applications
Authors: Abuishmais Ibrahim , Undeland Tore M.
Published: March 2012

The unique properties of SiC devices enable substantial improvement of existing power conversion systems. SiC devices offer lower conduction and switching losses which increases converter efficiency. With high switching speed ability, employing SiC is expected to reduce weight and cost of conversion systems. This paper investigates the potential impact of SiC devices on renewable energy applications.
[Retracted] Removal of Lead from Synthetic Solutions by Protonated Teleosts Biomass
Authors: Aqeel Ashraf Muhammad , Jamil Maah Mohd. , Yusoff Ismail
Published: March 2012

Lead is considered as a general protoplasmic poison which is cumulative and slow acting. It is used in different industrial processes. Its contamination in water may cause serious environmental problems. So removal of lead from environment is very necessary. For its removal the most suitable and cheapest process is biosorption. It is a process of passive metal binding by biomass. The biosorbent used in this study is teleosts biomass (fish scales) collected from local market. The purpose of this study is to search the effect of acid treatment on biosorbent and to optimize conditions for the uptake capacity of biosorbent. The optimal conditions for the Pb2+ biosorption capacity of teleosts biomass (fish scales as waste of white meat) was investigated. For this purposes, the biomass was subjected to chemical treatments with mono, di and tri‐protic acids such as hydrochloric acid, sulphuric acid and phosphoric acid. Among the treatment methods used, the highest Pb2+ uptake was obtained with hydrochloric acid treatment of biomass. The effect of pH, biomass granular size, biomass concentration and initial Pb2+ ion concentration was studied. The highest Pb2+ removal (65.39%) was obtained at pH 4.0 for 50 mg L−1 initial lead ion concentration with biomass granular size 80 micron and concentration of 0.05 g. The uptake was 75.70 mg g−1. The equilibrium data were analyzed using the Langmuir and Freundlich adsorption isotherm. The characteristic parameters for each isotherm were determined. Both the isotherms provided the best correlation for Pb2+ on to the biomass. These results showed that teleosts biomass (fish scales) is a potential biomass to remove Pb2+ ions from synthetic solutions so also with lead contaminated water. These values can be compared with those observed for other biosorbents and it is considerably higher than the value obtained with the majority of the biosorbent.
An Efficient and Inexpensive Synthesis of 2‐Substituted Benzimidazoles in Water Using Boric Acid at Room Temperature
Authors: Karimi-Jaberi Zahed , Amiri Mohammad
Published: March 2012

2‐Substituted benzimidazoles have been synthesized in a one‐pot reaction from o‐phenylenediamine and aldehydes in the presence of boric acid in water at room temperature. The method was proved to be eco‐friendly, convenient and the products were isolated with good yields.
Synthesis and Fungicidal Activity of Pyrazolecarboxamide Containing α‐Aminoacetanilide Moiety
Authors: Fang Zhi-Yong , Jiang Hong , Ye Xiao-Dong
Published: March 2012

A series of pyrazolecarboxamides containing α‐aminoacetanilide moiety (4) were synthesized. These compounds were characterized by IR, MS and 1H NMR. Their fugicidal activities against Rhizoctonia solani, Sclerotinia sclerotiorum, Monilinia fructicola and Alternaria brassicae were evaluated. The results show that compound 4l and 4p, which bear only one electron‐donating group on the para‐position of phenyl or benzyl group, possessed excellent inhibitory activities against the above four fungi.
Synthesis and Characterization of Mono‐ and Bicycle Heterocyclic Derivatives Containing 1, 2,4‐Triazole, 1,3,4‐Thiadiazine and 1,3‐Thiazole Rings
Authors: Nami Navabeh , Forozani Mehdi , Khosravimoghadam Vida , Taherinasab Rahmatallah
Published: March 2012

Reaction of tartaric acid with thiocarbohydrazide (2) and thiosemicarbazide (6) afforded 1,2‐bis(4‐amino‐5‐mercapto‐4H‐1,2,4‐triazol‐3‐yl)‐ethane‐1,2‐diol (3) and 1,2‐bis(5‐mercapto‐4H‐1,2,4‐triazol‐3‐yl)‐ethane‐1,2‐diol (7). Reaction of compounds 3 and 7 with DMAD (dimethylacety lendi carboxylate) and DEAD (diethylacetylendicarboxylate) gave 1,2‐bis(7‐[(z)‐methoxycarbonylmethylen]‐5,6‐dihydro‐5H‐6‐one‐[1,2,4] riazolo[3,4‐b] [1,3,4] thiadiazin‐3‐yl)‐ethan‐1,2‐diol (4), 1,2‐bis(7‐[(z)‐ethoxycarbonylmethylen] ‐5,6‐dihydro ‐5H‐6‐one‐[1,2,4]triazolo[3,4‐b][1,3,4]thiadiazin‐3‐yl)‐ethan‐1,2‐ diol (5) and 1,2‐bis(6‐[(z)‐methoxycarbonylmethylen]‐5‐oxo‐[1,3]thiazolo[2,3‐c] [1,2,4]triazol‐3‐yl)‐ethan‐1,2‐diol (8) in good yields.
Determination of Mineral Elements of Some Coarse Grains by Microwave Digestion with Inductively Coupled Plasma Atomic Emission Spectrometry
Authors: Yang Li , Yan Qinghua , Cao Yinping , Zhang Huirong
Published: March 2012

To determinate the mineral elements contents in millet，maise，oat，buckwheat，sorghum and purple rice, microwave digestion procedure optimized was applied for digesting six coarse grains. Nineteen mineral element concentrations were determined by inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry (ICP‐AES). Results displayed the limits of detection (LODs) and the limits of quantification (LOQs) range from 0.0047 to 0.1250 μg/mL and 0.0155 to 0.4125 μg/mL. The relative standard deviations (RSDs) range from 0.83% to 5.03%, which showed that this proposed method was accurate and precise to detect mineral elements in coarse grains simultaneously. Correlation coefficients (r) were calculated in the range of 0.999096‐0.999989. The sufficient dada obtained described that the coarse grains selected were abundant in mineral element contents in the human body on daily diet. The success of combining the microwave digestion technology with the ICP‐AES was a simple and precise method to determine many mineral elements in coarse grains simultaneously.
The Psychotomimetic Nature of Dreams: An Experimental Study
Authors: Mason Oliver , Wakerley Dominic
Published: March 2012

Several theories promote the similarities between dreaming and psychosis, but this has rarely been tested empirically. We assessed dreaming and waking reality using the Psychotomimetic States Inventory, a measure of psychotic-like experience originally designed for drug studies. Twenty participants completed the measure in each of two dream conditions and one waking condition. Dreams were assessed upon waking naturally and also using a movement-activated (actigraph) alarm during the night. Overall, participants reported more quasipsychotic characteristics during dreams (in both conditions) than when awake. This was most marked for paranoia and delusional thinking, but differences were also seen for perceptual abnormalities, mania, and anhedonia. The quality of dream experience seems particularly similar to psychosis in sometimes being highly self-referential and having a paranoid content. Subjective changes to cognition and affect are consistent with alterations in prefrontal cortical activity during REM sleep that mirror those of schizophrenia.
Aqueous Polymerization of Acrylonitrile with Cerium(IV)‐ p‐Hydroxyacetophenone Redox System
Authors: Palanivelu M. , Mohamed K. E. N. Nalla , Nawaz M. Prem
Published: March 2012

Aqueous polymerization of acrylonitrile initiated by Ce(IV)/ p‐hydroxy acetophenone (Ce(IV) – HAP) was studied in aqueous solution of sulfuric acid at 40 °C. The rate of polymerization was investigated at various concentrations of monomer, initiator, activator, sulfuric acid and the effect of temperature of 30‐70 °C range was studied. The rate of polymerization is governed by the expression Rp = Kp [M]1.44 [Ce(IV)] 0.55 [HAP] 0.51. The activation energy of polymerization was found to be 17.9 kJ/mol. A probable mechanism consistent with the observed results is proposed and discussed.
Asystole following Reintubation during Suspension Laryngoscopy
Authors: Glassman Sheryl H. , Green Michael S. , Brodsky Melissa
Published: March 2012

Transient increase in heart rate and mean arterial pressure commonly occur during manipulation of the airway via direct laryngoscopy. This phenomenon is understood to be due to a sympathetic nervous system reflex causing an increase in plasma catecholamines. Rarely, severe bradycardia and possible asystole can occur following laryngoscopy. One previous report described asystole during suspension laryngoscopy after uneventful direct laryngoscopy. Here we report a case of asystole occurring at the time of reinsertion and cuff inflation of an endotracheal tube in a patient who had been hemodynamically stable during initial direct laryngoscopy and the ensuing suspension laryngoscopy. The asystole was immediately recognized and successful cardiopulmonary resuscitation was performed with the patient returning to baseline sinus rhythm. Cardiac arrest following laryngoscopy is rare. This case highlights the importance of continued vigilance even after the initial manipulations of the airway by both direct laryngoscopy and suspension laryngoscopy are to be performed. Identifying patients who may benefit from premedication with a vagolytic drug may prevent adversity. Preoperative heart rate analysis can identify patients with strong vagal tone.
Adaptive Control of a Fermentation Bioprocess for Lactic Acid Production
Authors: Petre Emil , Selişteanu Dan
Published: March 2012

This paper presents the design and the analysis of an indirect adaptive control strategy for a lactic acid production, which is carried out in continuous stirred tank bioreactors. Firstly, an indirect adaptive control structure based on the nonlinear process model is derived by combining a linearizing control law with a new parameter estimator. This estimator is used for on‐line estimation of the bioprocess unknown kinetics, avoiding the introduction of a state observer. Secondly, a tuning procedure of estimator design parameters is achieved by stability analysis of the control scheme. The effectiveness and performance of estimation and control algorithms are illustrated by numerical simulations applied in the case of a lactic fermentation bioprocess for which kinetic dynamics are strongly nonlinear, time varying, and completely unknown, and not all the state variables are measurable.
Pyridinedicarboxylic Acid Derivatives of Dichlorobis(cyclopentadienyl)titanium(IV)
Authors: Dixit Satish C. , Singh Rohit K.
Published: March 2012

Reactions of dichlorobis(cyclopentadienyl)titanium(IV) with pyridine dicarboxylic acids viz. quinolinic acid (QAH2), 2,4‐pyridine dicarboxylic acid (PAH2), isocinchomeronic acid (IAH2), cinchomeronic acid (CAH2) and dinicotinic acid (DAH2) were carried out in different stoichiometric ratios. Complexes of the type Cp2Ti(QAH)Cl, Cp2Ti(QAH)2, Cp2Ti(PAH)Cl, Cp2Ti(PAH)2, Cp2Ti(IAH)Cl, Cp2Ti(IAH)2, Cp2Ti(CAH)Cl, Cp2Ti(CAH)2, Cp2Ti(DAH)Cl and Cp2Ti(DAH)2 were obtained. These new complexes were characterized on the basis of their elemental analyses, electrical conductance, magnetic moment and spectral data.
Lower Extremity Cutaneous Lesions as the Initial Presentation of Metastatic Adenocarcinoma of the Colon
Authors: Rajan Dhyan , Shah Mitanshu , Raghavan Pooja , Mujeeb Shanza , Rashid Sadat , Desouza Aieska , Mustacchia Paul
Published: March 2012

Cutaneous metastases from colorectal cancers are rare and are usually present on the abdominal wall or previous surgical incision sites. Remote cutaneous lesions have been reported, however, often occur in the setting of widespread metastatic disease including other visceral secondaries. We present a case of lower extremity cutaneous metastases as the first sign of metastatic disease in a patient with adenocarcinoma of the colon. This case illustrates that new skin lesions may be the initial presentation of metastatic disease in a patient with a history of cancer.
Composition of soil nematode communities in native birch forests in Central Europe
Authors: Renčo Marek , Čermák Václav , Čerevková Andrea
Published: March 2012

Soil nematodes were studied in 27 birch forests in the Slovak and Czech Republics. A total of 66 nematode genera were found. The eudominant nematode genera were Rhabditis and Aphelenchoides, followed by dominant genera Cephalobus, Paratylenchus, Plectus, Helicotylenchus and Aglenchus. Nevertheless, only Rhabditis, Cephalobus, Plectus and Aphelenchoides were recorded in all investigated birch stands. The highest nematode abundance was recorded in the birch forest situated in the Drahanská Highland (the Czech Republic). All nematode trophic groups were present in the investigated birch forests, with bacteriovores being the dominant group, followed by plant-parasitic nematodes, fungal feeders, root-fungal feeders, omnivores and predators. Ecological evaluation of nematode communities based on ecological indices demonstrated that the conditions of the nematode communities in birch forests were rather stable with prevailing bacterial decomposition pathways, which reflects the dominance of bacteriovorous nematodes.
Effects on Meloidogyne incognita of chitinase, glucanase and a secondary metabolite from Streptomyces cacaoi GY525
Authors: Yoon Geun Young , Lee Yong Seong , Lee So Yeon , Park Ro Dong , Hyun Hae Nam , Nam Yi , Kim Kil Yong
Published: March 2012

Streptomyces cacaoi GY525, isolated from liquid compost containing crab shell powder, produced a secondary metabolite 3-benzyl-1,4-diaza-2,5-dioxobicyclo[4.3.0]nonane (BDDB) and lytic enzymes including chitinase and β-1,3-glucanase. To examine the effect of the bacterial culture filtrate (CF) and BDDB on mortality of second-stage juvenile (J2) and hatch inhibition of Meloidogyne incognita, different concentrations of them were added in 24-well plates containing ca 250 eggs and 250 J2, respectively. With increasing concentrations of CF and BDDB mortality of J2 increased while hatch decreased. In pot trials, tomato plants were treated with the GY525 culture (SC), culture medium (CM), commercial nematicide (5% ethoprophos) (CN) and combination of CN and SC (CN+SC). Tap water (TW) was used as a control. During the experimental periods, growth of tomato plants treated with SC markedly increased compared with TW and CN treatments. After 7 weeks the number of egg masses in TW was over 220, while that in SC was around 40 per plant. Population of J2 in soil and the number of egg masses in plant roots in SC, CN+SC and CN were significantly lower than those in TW and CM. Our results suggest that S. cacaoi GY525 has potential as a biological control agent against root-knot nematodes.
Nematodes in the heads of ants associated with sap flux and rotten wood
Authors: Köhler Arne
Published: March 2012

Ants from samples from ten sap fluxes and rotten wood accumulations were examined for the presence of nematodes. The arboreal ant, Lasius brunneus, was found in seven of the ten samples. In the heads of L. brunneus five nematode species were detected: Koerneria histophora, Diploscapter sp., Oscheius dolichurus, Diplogasteroides spengelii and Halicephalobus similigaster, the latter two species for the first time in ants. The occurrence of Koerneria histophora more frequently than described in the literature can be explained by its strong preference for sap fluxes and rotten wood. It is hypothesised that only ants which come into contact with sap flux or rotten wood carry K. histophora. Waving dauer juveniles of Diploscapter sp. and H. similigaster successfully infested not only ants, but also beetles (Tenebrio molitor) in controlled experiments. In two of 11 cases, a transfer of dauer juveniles between ant specimens by trophallaxis was observed. Diploscapter sp. and H. similigaster left infested ants when they were stored in a wet environment.
An evaluation of the implications of virulence in non-European populations of Globodera pallida and G. rostochiensis for potato cultivation in Europe
Authors: Hockland Sue , Niere Björn , Grenier Eric , Blok Vivian , Phillips Mark , den Nijs Loes , Anthoine Géraldine , Pickup Jon , Viaene Nicole
Published: March 2012

The potato cyst nematodes Globodera pallida and G. rostochiensis are listed in the EU Plant Health Directive 2000/29/EC and are also subject to the new EU Council Directive 2007/33/EC on the control of potato cyst nematodes, requiring unilateral suppression of these pests in Europe. At the same time there is also pressure to increase world trade in potatoes. Such pressure has to be balanced by the risks involved in the associated spread of these pests and subsequent problems in management. Populations of the potato cyst nematodes from outside Europe, in particular South America, which is considered the origin of G. pallida and G. rostochiensis, pose a risk to those European countries where limited genetic variability of these nematode species has been recorded. The development and usage of resistant cultivars under such conditions has formed a pivotal role in integrated management programmes in Europe. Molecular studies have shown that populations of G. pallida and G. rostochiensis from South America have a different genetic composition from those in Europe. The introduction of such populations would pose a threat to the use of resistant cultivars as a major tool in reducing the potential spread and damage caused by these species. At present, an inability to link precisely genetic variability to the virulence characteristics of a specific nematode population, and quickly identify the virulence status of intercepted populations for inspection purposes, strengthens the case for using plant health legislation to prevent their introduction.
Bursaphelenchus tadamiensis n. sp. (Nematoda: Aphelenchoididae), isolated from a stag beetle, Dorcus striatipennis (Coleoptera: Lucanidae), from Japan
Authors: Kanzaki Natsumi , Taki Hisatomo , Masuya Hayato , Okabe Kimiko
Published: March 2012

Bursaphelenchus tadamiensis n. sp. is described. The new species was isolated during a field survey of nematodes associated with stag beetles. It was recovered from the dissected body of a Dorcus striatipennis, from Tadami, Fukushima, Japan. The new species is medium sized for the genus, with males 486-772 μm and females 643-997 μm in body length, and has four lateral lines, six male genital papillae (P1 ventral single papilla is missing or vestigial), mitten-shaped spicule with clear dorsal and ventral limbs, rather large squared bursal flap, vulva lacking flap, female tail long, tapering and ventrally curved. Based upon its diagnostic morphological characters, the new species belongs to the B. fungivorus group and is close to B. thailandae, B. willibaldi and B. braaschae. It is distinguished from these three species by morphology of the male bursal flap and several morphometric values, e.g., the V value of B. tadamiensis n. sp. is clearly larger than that of the above three species. The molecular phylogenetic analyses inferred from near full-length SSU and D2/D3 LSU supported the morphological observations, i.e., the new species is molecularly similar to B. thailandae, B. willibaldi, B. braaschae and B. kiyoharai. The stag beetle association of the new species may be an accidental phoresy, although the nematode could be undergoing carrier (vector) switching, because only two adult (no dauer juveniles) individuals were isolated from only one of 100 beetles examined. The insect organ with which the nematode was associated is unknown.
Timing Perception in Paintings and Sculptures of Edgar Degas
Authors: Nather Francisco Carlos , Bueno José Lino Oliveira
Published: March 2012

Abstract

The impressionist artist Edgar Degas (1834-1917) is widely known for his artistic production dedicated to the representation of movement. Degas has done a careful study, realistically depicting the movement both in his paintings of scenes of horses, women bathing and dancing, and in his sculptures of dancers in various positions of classical ballet. Since movements exist only at the intersection space-time, and visual works of art exist only in physical spaces defined by the works themselves, this article discusses the perception of time in the work of Degas. Therefore, this paper emphasizes aspects of the representation of movement used by the artist and the implied relations of these aspects with the perception of time. The timing perception is addressed according to studies that revealed components of the subjective perception of time related to a meeting of an observer with a work of visual art (aesthetic episode).
Geographic and intrapopulational variation in colour and patterns of an aposematic toad, Melanophryniscus rubriventris (Amphibia, Anura, Bufonidae)
Authors: Bonansea Maria Ines , Vaira Marcos
Published: March 2012

The aposematic toad genusMelanophryniscusis a polymorphic group with noticeable variation in colour and pattern. Here, we objectively evaluate variation in spectral reflectance and quantify variation in patterning within and among populations of the speciesM. rubriventrisin NW Argentina. We conducted spectrophotometric analysis on 69 individuals and recorded dorsal and ventral pattern morphs of 727 individuals from six populations. We found high divergence in the reflectance spectra, the extent of brightly coloured areas, and the skin alkaloid profiles with no correlation among coloration varieties, alkaloid profiles, and the geographic distance between populations. Our analyses imply subdivision of sampled populations groupings based mostly on different dorsal colorations. Our results also reveal that populations with very similar patterns may differ markedly in colour and vice versa. It is striking that these aposematic toads show a pronounced variation in colour and patterning among and within populations showing individuals with a conspicuous bright dorsal colouration but also morphs with a rather cryptic black or drab colouration. However, the known presence of several alkaloids classes in all populations suggests that all morphs might be equally unpalatable.