bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Triton-B-Catalyzed, Efficient, Solvent-Free Synthesis of Benzopyrans
Authors: Chaturvedi Devdutt , Chaturvedi Amit K. , Mishra Nisha , Mishra Virendra
Published: September 2012

A convenient and microwave-promoted novel protocol for the syntheses of diverse kinds of substituted benzopyrans from the corresponding variety of substituted hydroxy acetophenones and keto compounds using benzyltrimethylammonium hydroxide (Triton-B) under solvent-free conditions has been developed. This protocol is mild and efficient than the other reported methods.
Virgin Coconut Oil Supplementation Prevents Bone Loss in Osteoporosis Rat Model
Authors: Hayatullina Zil , Muhammad Norliza , Mohamed Norazlina , Soelaiman Ima-Nirwana
Published: September 2012

Oxidative stress and free radicals have been implicated in the pathogenesis of osteoporosis. Therefore, antioxidant compounds have the potential to be used in the prevention and treatment of the disease. In this study, we investigated the effects of virgin coconut oil (VCO) on bone microarchitecture in a postmenopausal osteoporosis rat model. VCO is a different form of coconut oil as it is rich with antioxidants. Three-month-old female rats were randomly grouped into baseline, sham-operated, ovariectomized control (Ovx), and ovariectomized rats fed with 8% VCO in their diet for six weeks (Ovx+VCO). Bone histomorphometry of the right femora was carried out at the end of the study. Rats supplemented with VCO had a significantly greater bone volume and trabecular number while trabecular separation was lower than the Ovx group. In conclusion, VCO was effective in maintaining bone structure and preventing bone loss in estrogen-deficient rat model.
Current Clinical Applications of Magnifying Endoscopy with Narrow Band Imaging in the Stomach
Authors: Li Hai-Yan , Ge Zhi-Zheng , Fujishiro Mitsuhiro , Li Xiao-Bo
Published: September 2012

Narrow band imaging (NBI), in conjunction with magnifying endoscopy (ME), has arisen more and more attention in the area of advanced endoscopy. By enhancing the mucosal microvascular architecture and surface pattern, it is feasible to use ME-NBI to identify subtle changes associated with gastric inflammation, atrophy, intestinal metaplasia, and early gastric cancer. The new technique thus plays a valuable role in therapeutic decision-making, endoscopic treatment process, postoperative evaluation, and follow-up examination. To date, many criteria or evaluation method of ME-NBI has been proposed. This paper aims to summarize the various diagnosing classifications and the current clinical applications of ME-NBI in the stomach.
Pertussis Epidemiology in Greece and Emerging Risk Groups during the Vaccination Era (1980–2008)
Authors: Theodoridou Maria , Dargenta Georgia , Aptouramani Maria , Papastergiou Panagiotis , Katsiaflaka Anna , Theodoridou Kalliopi , Hadjichristodoulou Christos
Published: September 2012

To study the epidemiology of pertussis in Greece and epidemiologic changes throughout a period of twenty-nine years, we conducted a retrospective analysis of available data of pertussis cases for the past twenty-nine years (1980–2008) and a prospective analysis of hospitalized pertussis cases from a children’s hospital in Athens for eight years (2001–2008). From 1980 through 2008, the incidence of pertussis in Greece declined from 11.2 to 0.05 cases per 100,000. Epidemic cycles occurring every 3 to 5 years were observed. Since pertussis circulation cannot be fully controlled by present immunization programs, efforts should be made to vaccinate infants at the recommended age, early diagnose, treatment as well as contact tracing of pertussis cases. Control of pertussis in social susceptible populations is necessary. A national program with adolescent and adult booster could decrease the circulation ofB. pertussis. Despite an overall decrease for pertussis cases, pertussis is still a present and future challenge of public health service in Greece.
Asymptotic Behavior of Approximated Solutions to Parabolic Equations with Irregular Data
Authors: Niu Weisheng , Li Hongtao
Published: September 2012

Let Ω be a smooth bounded domain in ℝN, (N ≥ 3). We consider the asymptotic behavior of solutions to the following problem ut − div(a(x)∇u) + λf(u) = μ  in  Ω × ℝ+, u = 0  on  ∂Ω × ℝ+, u(x, 0) = u0(x)  in  Ω, where u0 ∈ L1(Ω), μ is a finite Radon measure independent of time. We provide the existence and uniqueness results on the approximated solutions. Then we establish some regularity results on the solutions and consider the long‐time behavior.
Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor Gamma and Regulations by the Ubiquitin-Proteasome System in Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Stravodimou Athina , Mazzoccoli Gianluigi , Voutsadakis Ioannis A.
Published: September 2012

Pancreatic cancer is one of the most lethal forms of human cancer. Although progress in oncology has improved outcomes in many forms of cancer, little progress has been made in pancreatic carcinoma and the prognosis of this malignancy remains grim. Several molecular abnormalities often present in pancreatic cancer have been defined and include mutations in K-ras, p53, p16, and DPC4 genes. Nuclear receptor Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor gamma (PPARγ) has a role in many carcinomas and has been found to be overexpressed in pancreatic cancer. It plays generally a tumor suppressor role antagonizing proteins promoting carcinogenesis such as NF-κB and TGFβ. Regulation of pathways involved in pancreatic carcinogenesis is effectuated by the Ubiquitin Proteasome System (UPS). This paper will examine PPARγin pancreatic cancer, the regulation of this nuclear receptor by the UPS, and their relationship to other pathways important in pancreatic carcinogenesis.
Circular Temporary Labour Migration: Reassessing Established Public Policies
Authors: Zapata-Barrero Ricard , Faúndez García Rocío , Sánchez-Montijano Elena
Published: September 2012

Circular Temporary Labour Migration (CTLM) is being promoted as an innovative and viable way of regulating the flow of labour migrants. Based on a specific empirical case study, we identify an unexpected outcome of CTLM programmes: the emergence of a new empirical migrant category, the circular labour migrant, which is as yet theoretically unnamed and lacks recognition by public institutions. We argue that, to date, there have been two historical phases of circular labour migration: one with total deregulation and another with partial regulation, involving private actors supported by public institutions. In a developed welfare state context, it would be normatively pertinent to expect a step towards a third phase, involving the institutionalization of this new trend in mobility by the formulation of a public policy. Current legal, political, social, and economic frameworks have to be reassessed in order to recognise the category of the circular labour migrant.
A Strong Convergence Theorem for RelativelyNonexpansive Mappings and EquilibriumProblems in Banach Spaces
Authors: Yuan Mei , Li Xi , Li Xue-song , Liu John J.
Published: September 2012

Relatively nonexpansive mappings and equilibrium problems are
considered based on a shrinking projection method. Using properties of the generalized f‐projection operator, a strong convergence theorem for relatively nonexpansive mappings and equilibrium problems is proved in Banach spaces under some suitable conditions.
Robust Finite‐Time ℋ∞ Control for Uncertain Systems Subject to Intermittent Measurements
Authors: Deng Zhenghong
Published: September 2012

This paper investigates the robust finite‐time ℋ∞ controller design problem of discrete‐time systems with intermittent measurements. It is assumed that the system is subject to the norm‐bounded uncertainties and the measurements are intermittent. The Bernoulli process is used to describe the phenomenon of intermittent measurements. By substituting the state‐feedback controller into the system, a stochastic closed‐loop system is obtained. Based on the analysis of the robust stochastic finite‐time stability and the ℋ∞ performance, the controller design method is proposed. The controller gain can be calculated by solving a sequence of linear matrix inequalities. Finally, a numerical example is used to show the design procedure and the effectiveness of the proposed design methodology.
Vocal Cord Dysfunction: A Frequently Forgotten Entity
Authors: Campainha S. , Ribeiro C. , Guimarães M. , Lima R.
Published: September 2012

Vocal cord dysfunction (VCD) is a disorder characterized by unintentional paradoxical adduction of the vocal cords, resulting in episodic shortness of breath, wheezing and stridor. Due to its clinical presentation, this entity is frequently mistaken for asthma. The diagnosis of VCD is made by direct observation of the upper airway by rhinolaryngoscopy, but due to the variable nature of this disorder the diagnosis can sometimes be challenging. We report the case of a 41-year old female referred to our Allergology clinics with the diagnosis of asthma. Thorough investigation revealed VCD as the cause of symptoms.
Fludrocortisone Therapy in Renal Transplant Recipients with Persistent Hyperkalemia
Authors: Marfo K. , Glicklich D.
Published: September 2012

Hyperkalemia after kidney transplantation is a common electrolyte disturbance and the risk factors are multifactorial. Pharmacotherapeutic agents for chronic management of hyperkalemia in kidney transplant patients may be relatively contraindicated or provide suboptimal efficacy. Fludrocortisone, an endogenous mineralocorticoid mimics the actions of aldosterone, hence hyperkalemia reversal. We describe three- case series of persistent hyperkalemia with demonstrated benefit from fludrocortisone therapy. Our three renal transplant recipients with multiple emergency room visits for elevated serum potassium levels despite treatment with diuretics, sodium bicarbonate, and sodium polystyrene sulfonate responded well to fludrocortisones therapy. Upon fludrocortisone initiation and maintenance therapy, all three patients experienced a decline in serum potassium levels to normal reference range.
Ophthalmic Parasitosis: A Review Article
Authors: Nimir Amal R. , Saliem Ahmed , Ibrahim Ibrahim Abdel Aziz
Published: September 2012

Ocular parasitosis in human is more prevalent in geographical areas where environmental factors and poor sanitary conditions favor the parasitism between man and animals. Lesions in the eye can be due to damage directly caused by the infectious pathogen, indirect pathology caused by toxic products, or the immune response incited by infections or ectopic parasitism. The epidemiology of parasitic ocular diseases reflects the habitat of the causative parasites as well as the habits and health status of the patient. An ocular examination may provide clues to the underlying disease/infection, and an awareness of the possibilities of travel-related pathology may shed light on an ocular presentation. This paper is a comprehensive review of the parasitic diseases of the eye. The majority of the clinically important species of parasites involved in eye infection are reviewed in this paper. Parasites are discussed by the disease or infection they cause.
Troubleshooting Assistance Services in Community Wireless Networks
Authors: Kriz P. , Maly F.
Published: September 2012

We have identified new services intended for users and administrators of community wireless networks. Troubleshooting assistance services will assist the users during solution of communication problems, gathering data for expert analysis, informing the user about the state of the network (including outages), and so forth. Network administrators will be provided with a unique tool supporting the network analysis, operation, and development. We have mainly focused on the use cases and prerequirements—the problem of topology discovery.
D-Serine Production, Degradation, and Transport in ALS: Critical Role of Methodology
Authors: Crow John P. , Marecki John C. , Thompson Misty
Published: September 2012

In mammalian systems, D-serine is perhaps the most biologically active D-amino acid described to date. D-serine is a coagonist at the NMDA-receptor, and receptor activation is dependent on D-serine binding. Because D-serine binding dramatically increases receptor affinity for glutamate, it can produce excitotoxicity without any change in glutamateper se. D-serine is twofold higher in the spinal cords of mSOD1 (G93A) ALS mice, and the deletion of serine racemase (SR), the enzyme that produces D-serine, results in an earlier onset of symptoms, but with a much slower rate of disease progression. Localization studies within the brain suggest that mSOD1 and subsequent glial activation could contribute to the alterations in SR and D-serine seen in ALS. By also degrading both D-serine and L-serine, SR appears to be a prime bidirectional regulator of free serine levelsin vivo. Therefore, accurate and reproducible measurements of D-serine are critical to understanding its regulation by SR. Several methods for measuring D-serine have been employed, and significant issues related to validation and standardization remain unresolved. Further insights into the intracellular transport and tissue-specific compartmentalization of D-serine within the CNS will aid in the understanding of the role of D-serine in the pathogenesis of ALS.
Analysis of a T‐Frame Bridge
Authors: Lu Pengzhen , Li Fangyuan , Shao Changyu
Published: September 2012

The structural behavior of T‐frame bridges is particularly complicated and it is difficult using a general analytical method to directly acquire the internal forces in the structure. This paper presents a spatial grillage model for analysis of such bridges. The proposed model is validated by comparison with results obtained from field testing. It is shown that analysis of T‐frame bridges may be conveniently performed using the spatial grillage model.
Nonlinearities in Drug Release Process from Polymeric Microparticles: Long‐Time‐Scale Behaviour
Authors: Bacaita Elena Simona , Bejinariu Costica , Zoltan Borsos , Peptu Catalina , Andrei Gabriela , Popa Marcel , Magop Daniela , Agop Maricel
Published: September 2012

A theoretical model of the drug release process from polymeric microparticles (a particular type of polymer matrix), through dispersive fractal approximation of motion, is built. As a result, the drug release process takes place through cnoidal oscillations modes of a normalized concentration field. This indicates that, in the case of long‐time‐scale evolutions, the drug particles assemble in a lattice of nonlinear oscillators occur macroscopically, through variations of drug concentration. The model is validated by experimental results.
Hand Hygiene Practices among Medical Students
Authors: al Kadi Azzam , Salati Sajad Ahmad
Published: September 2012

Background. Hand hygiene is a cost-effective method in preventing infection transmission. Hand hygiene practices have been found to be faulty in most healthcare settings. We conducted a study to evaluate the awareness, and compliance of hand hygiene among undergraduate medical students during their clinical phase in Qassim College of Medicine, Saudi Arabia.Methods. A questionnaire based on World Health Organization’s concept of “Five Moments for Hand Hygiene” was used to evaluate the awareness of the indications for hand hygiene and compliance was observed during Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) sessions. Sixty students including thirty-six males (60%) and twenty-four females (40%) participated voluntarily in the study.Results. The average awareness regarding the positive indications of hand hygiene was 56%. Rest of the 44% of students were either not sure or unaware of the indications of hygiene. Only 29% of students were able to identify all the five indications for hand hygiene in the questionnaire. Compliance as assessed during OSCE sessions was only 17% with no significant difference between the genders.Conclusion. It was concluded that serious efforts are needed to improve the hand hygiene practices among medical students.
Ginsenoside Rb1 Prevents MPP+-Induced Apoptosis in PC12 Cells by Stimulating Estrogen Receptors with Consequent Activation of ERK1/2, Akt and Inhibition of SAPK/JNK, p38 MAPK
Authors: Hashimoto Ryo , Yu Jing , Koizumi Hideki , Ouchi Yasuyoshi , Okabe Tetsuro
Published: September 2012

Ginsenoside Rb1 shows neuroprotective effects in various neurons, including dopaminergic cells. However, the precise mechanisms of action are uncertain. In this paper, we examine whether Rb1 has a neuroprotective effect on MPP+-induced apoptosis and attempt to clarify the signaling pathway in PC12 cells. Apoptosis of PC12 cells was determined by DNA fragmentation assay, the activation of caspase-3, or by the inactivation of Bcl-xL. Rb1 inhibited MPP+-induced caspase-3 activation and DNA fragmentation and activated Bcl-xL in MPP+-treated PC12 cells. These antiapoptotic effect was abrogated in PC12 cells transfected with estrogen receptor siRNA. Levels of DNA fragmentation were increased by wortmannin or PD 98059, while they were decreased by SB 203580 or SP 600125 in MPP+-treated PC12 cells. Rb1 increased phosphorylation levels of ERK1/2 or Akt in MPP+-treated PC12 cells, while it reduced phosphorylated p38 or SAPK/JNK. The increased phosphorylation of ERK/1/2 or Akt by Rb1 was abrogated by estrogen receptor siRNA. Rb1-induced inhibition of SAPK/JNK or p38 phosphorylation was also abolished by estrogen receptor siRNA. These results suggest that ginsenoside Rb1 protects PC12 cells from caspase-3-dependent apoptosis through stimulation of estrogen receptor with consequent activation of ERK1/2 and Akt and inhibition of SAPK/JNK and p38.
A Rare Case of Antepartum Spontaneous Septostomy in a Monochorionic Diamniotic Twin Pregnancy
Authors: Chadha Rati , Lange Ian R. , Bratz Lisa , Cooper Stephanie L. , Roggensack Anne , Johnson Jo-Ann
Published: September 2012

Spontaneous septostomy in a monochorionic diamniotic twin pregnancy is a rare phenomenon. We present a case of monochorionic diamniotic twin pregnancy with an intact dividing membrane seen in the 1st half of the pregnancy. At 26 weeks, when she was assessed for preterm contractions, the dividing membrane was not documented, which suggested spontaneous septostomy. There had been no invasive procedures during the pregnancy. She subsequently delivered at 29 weeks, secondary to preterm labor. No dividing membrane was noticed at the time of caesarian section. Spontaneous septostomy can complicate the management of monochorionic diamniotic twins by creating a pseudomonoamniotic environment resulting in cord entanglement, and difficulty in the diagnosis and management of twin-twin transfusion syndrome. We believe that such a case should be managed as monochorionic monoamniotic twin gestation.
Fever following an Epidural Blood Patch in a Child
Authors: Hunyady Agnes I. , Anderson Corrie T. M. , Kuratani John D. , Kundu Anjana
Published: September 2012

There is increasing evidence that children suffer from the consequences of spontaneous or iatrogenic intracranial hypotension. Pediatric epidural blood patch is gaining popularity because of its ability to alter cerebrospinal fluid dynamics and to alleviate headaches attributed to low cerebrospinal fluid pressure. There is, however, still not enough data to document the safety profile of an epidural blood patch. Here we describe a case of a fever in a child temporally related to the administration of an epidural blood patch. This case depicts the dilemmas in making the diagnosis and instituting treatment for complications of this procedure in the pediatric population.
Numerical Studies for Fractional‐Order Logistic Differential Equation with Two Different Delays
Authors: Sweilam N. H. , Khader M. M. , Mahdy A. M. S.
Published: September 2012

A numerical method for solving the fractional‐order logistic differential equation with two different delays (FOLE) is considered. The fractional derivative is described in the Caputo sense. The proposed method is based upon Chebyshev approximations. The properties of Chebyshev polynomials are utilized to reduce FOLE to a system of algebraic equations. Special attention is given to study the convergence and the error estimate of the presented method. Numerical illustrations are presented to demonstrate utility of the proposed method. Chaotic behavior is observed and the smallest fractional order for the chaotic behavior is obtained. Also, FOLE is studied using variational iteration method (VIM) and the fractional complex transform is introduced to convert fractional Logistic equation to its differential partner, so that its variational iteration algorithm can be simply constructed. Numerical experiment is presented to illustrate the validity and the great potential of both proposed techniques.
Safety and Efficacy Profile ofEchinacea purpureato Prevent Common Cold Episodes: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial
Authors: Jawad M. , Schoop R. , Suter A. , Klein P. , Eccles R.
Published: September 2012

Objective. To investigate the safety (risk) and efficacy (benefit) ofEchinacea purpureaextract in the prevention of common cold episodes in a large population over a 4-month period.Methods. 755 healthy subjects were allocated to receive either an alcohol extract from freshly harvestedE. purpurea(95% herba and 5% root) or placebo. Participants were required to record adverse events and to rate cold-related issues in a diary throughout the investigation period. Nasal secretions were sampled at acute colds and screened for viruses.Results. A total of 293 adverse events occurred withEchinaceaand 306 with placebo treatment. Nine and 10% of participants experienced adverse events, which were at least possibly related to the study drug (adverse drug reactions). Thus, the safety ofEchinaceawas noninferior to placebo.Echinaceareduced the total number of cold episodes, cumulated episode days within the group, and pain-killer medicated episodes.Echinaceainhibited virally confirmed colds and especially prevented enveloped virus infections (P<0.05).Echinaceashowed maximal effects on recurrent infections, and preventive effects increased with therapy compliance and adherence to the protocol.Conclusions. Compliant prophylactic intake ofE. purpureaover a 4-month period appeared to provide a positive risk to benefit ratio.
A Derivation of the Nonlocal Volume-Averaged Equations for Two-Phase Flow Transport
Authors: Espinosa-Paredes Gilberto
Published: September 2012

In this paper a detailed derivation of the general transport equations for two-phase systems using a method based onnonlocalvolume averaging is presented. Thelocalvolume averaging equations are commonly applied in nuclear reactor system for optimal design and safe operation. Unfortunately, these equations are limited to length-scale restriction and according with the theory of the averaging volume method, these fail in transition of the flow patterns and boundaries between two-phase flow and solid, which produce rapid changes in the physical properties and void fraction. Thenon-localvolume averaging equations derived in this work contain new terms related withnon-localtransport effects due to accumulation, convection diffusion and transport properties for two-phase flow; for instance, they can be applied in the boundary between a two-phase flow and a solid phase, or in the boundary of the transition region of two-phase flows where thelocalvolume averaging equations fail.
Potential Role of Peptidylarginine Deiminase Enzymes and Protein Citrullination in Cancer Pathogenesis
Authors: Mohanan Sunish , Cherrington Brian D. , Horibata Sachi , McElwee John L. , Thompson Paul R. , Coonrod Scott A.
Published: September 2012

The peptidylarginine deiminases (PADs) are a family of posttranslational modification enzymes that catalyze the conversion of positively charged protein-bound arginine and methylarginine residues to the uncharged, nonstandard amino acid citrulline. This enzymatic activity is referred to as citrullination or, alternatively, deimination. Citrullination can significantly affect biochemical pathways by altering the structure and function of target proteins. Five mammalian PAD family members (PADs 1–4 and 6) have been described and show tissue-specific distribution. Recent reviews on PADs have focused on their role in autoimmune diseases. Here, we will discuss the potential role of PADs in tumor progression and tumor-associated inflammation. In the context of cancer, increasing clinical evidence suggests that PAD4 (and possibly PAD2) has important roles in tumor progression. The link between PADs and cancer is strengthened by recent findings showing that treatment of cell lines and mice with PAD inhibitors significantly suppresses tumor growth and, interestingly, inflammatory symptoms. At the molecular level, transcription factors, coregulators, and histones are functional targets for citrullination by PADs, and citrullination of these targets can affect gene expression in multiple tumor cell lines. Next generation isozyme-specific PAD inhibitors may have therapeutic potential to regulate both the inflammatory tumor microenvironment and tumor cell growth.
Synthesis of Adaptive Gain Robust Output Feedback Controllers for a Class of Lipschitz Nonlinear Systems with Unknown Upper Bound of Uncertainty
Authors: Oya Hidetoshi , Hagino Kojiro
Published: September 2012

We propose a new adaptive gain robust output feedback controller for a class of the Lipschitz nonlinear systems with unknown upper bound of uncertainty. The proposed adaptive gain robust output feedback controller is designed so as to reduce the effect of uncertainties and Lipschitz nonlinearities. In this paper, we show that sufficient conditions for the existence of the proposed adaptive gain robust output feedback controller are reduced to LMI conditions. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed robust output feedback controller is demonstrated by numerical simulations.
Systemic Treatment of Vitreous Inflammation
Authors: Christoforidis John B. , Chang Susie , Jiang Angela , Wang Jillian , Cebulla Colleen M.
Published: September 2012

Non infectious vitreous inflammation is often vision threatening and can be associated with potentially life-threatening systemic conditions. Treatment is often challenging as it involves systemic medications that can be associated with adverse effects. The classes of drugs are ever expanding and include corticosteroids, antimetabolites, alkylating agents, T-cell and calcineurin agents, biologic agents, and interferons. Each class of systemic therapy for non-infectious vitreous inflammation is reviewed. We discuss the mechanisms of action, usual clinical dosages, the specific conditions that are treated, the adverse effects, and usual course of treatment for each class of therapy.
Phosphine‐Free Palladium‐Catalyzed Direct C‐3 Arylation of 2‐Phenylimidazo[1,2‐a]pyridine Using Silver(I) Carboxylate
Authors: Kona Sridevi , Ravi Rama Suresh , Chakravarty Manab , Chava Venkata N. R.
Published: September 2012

Phosphine‐free palladium‐catalyzed direct arylation of 2‐phenyl‐imidazo[1,2‐a]pyridine has been developed with the concept of using silver(I) carboxylate. This protocol efficiently catalyzes the C‐H arylation of 2‐phenyl‐imidazo[1,2‐a]pyridine with aryl iodides to afford the corresponding 2‐phenyl‐3‐aryl‐imidazo[1,2‐a]pyridines in moderate to‐good yields.
Novel LC Method Development and Validation for Simultaneous Determination of Montelukast and Doxofylline in Bulk and Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms
Authors: Nirupa Gadapa , Siva Kumar A. , Tripathi Upendra M.
Published: September 2012

A novel rapid HPLC method was developed for simultaneous determination of montelukast and doxofylline in bulk and pharmaceutical dosage forms. Development of an analytical method for simultaneous estimation of drugs requires a lot of efforts and of course it is a challenging task. The method was developed by using C18 (150 mm × 4.6 mm, 5 μm) column; mobile phase consisting of methanol and phosphate buffer at pH 4.5; the flow rate of 1.0 mL/min and ultraviolet detection at 280 nm. Both drugs were sufficiently resolved having retention time of 4.7 min and 1.9 min for montelukast and doxofylline, respectively. The method was validated as per ICH Guidelines for various parameters like precision, linearity, accuracy, ruggedness, and robustness. The validated method was applied to the commercially available pharmaceutical dosage form and obtained the desired result.
Thermal Study of a Newly Synthesized Cu(II) Complex Binding to Bovine β‐Lactoglobulin
Authors: Divsalar Adeleh , Barzegar Lyla , Behbehani Gholamreza Rezaei
Published: September 2012

We have investigated the interactions between β‐lactoglobulin, BLG, and new synthesized Cu(II) complex (2,2′‐dibipyridine Cu(II) chloride) using isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC) methods at different temperatures of 298 and 310 K. The heats of BLG + Cu(II) interactions are reported and analyzed in terms of the extended solvation theory for calculation of binding and thermodynamic parameters of the interaction. The results suggested that binding of Cu(II) complex on BLG resulted in significant changes on the tertiary structure and conformation of protein via increasing of hydrophobicity and inducing partially unfolded structure in BLG which has a good agreement with the solvation parameters recovered by the extended solvation model suggesting destabilization of the protein.
On the Difference between Self‐Assembling Process of Monomeric and Dimeric Surfactants with the Same Head to Tail Ratio: A Lattice Monte Carlo Simulation
Authors: Behjatmanesh-Ardakani Reza , Farsad Maryam
Published: September 2012

Experimental data show that gemini surfactants have critical micelle concentrations that are almost tenfold lower than the CMCs of single chain ones. It is believed that the spacer groups play an important role in this subject. Short hydrophilic or long hydrophobic spacers can reduce CMC dramatically. In this paper, self‐assembling processes of double‐chain and one‐chain surfactants with the same head to tail ratio are compared. Dimeric chain structure is exactly double of single chain. In other words, hydrophilic‐lyophilic balances of two chain models are the same. Two single chains are connected head‐to‐head to form a dimeric chain, without introducing extra head or tail beads as a spacer group. Premicellar, micellar, and shape/phase transition ranges of both models are investigated. To do this, lattice Monte Carlo simulation in canonical ensemble has been used. Results show that without introducing extra beads as spacer group, the CMC of (H3T3)2 as a dimeric surfactant is much lower than the CMC of its similar single chain, H3T3. For dimeric case of study, it is shown that bolaform aggregates are formed.
Synthesis and Physicochemical Characterization of Chitin Derivatives
Authors: Uzun İlhan , Topal Giray
Published: September 2012

Firstly, chitin derivatives were synthesized. For this purpose, chitin was modified via ring‐opening reaction with cyclic anhydrides in lithium chloride/N,N‐dimethylacetamide. Then, chitin derivatives synthesized were characterized by FTIR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR, and U‐Vis spectroscopies and scanning electron microscopy. Thermogravimetric analysis was performed to investigate the thermal stability of chitin derivatives. Thermogravimetric analysis results showed that chitin modified with trimellitic anhydride is thermally more stable than chitin modified with phthalic anhydride. In addition, the electrical conductivity of chitin modified with phthalic anhydride and trimellitic anhydride was also measured. Electrical conductivity measurement results showed that the electrical conductivity of chitin modified with trimellitic anhydride (1.2 × 10−4 S cm−1) is higher than that of chitin modified with phthalic anhydride (9.2 × 10−5 S cm−1).
Copper, Zinc, and Cu/Zn Ratio in Transitional Cell Carcinoma of the Bladder
Authors: Golabek Tomasz , Darewicz Barbara , Borawska Maria , Socha Katarzyna , Markiewicz Renata , Kudelski Jacek
Published: September 2012

Introduction: Many epidemiological and experimental studies report a strong role of chemical carcinogens in the etiology of bladder cancer. However, involvement of trace elements in the tumorigenesis of transitional cell carcinoma of the bladder has been poorly investigated. The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between zinc, copper and bladder cancer. Materials and Methods: Zinc and copper concentration and Cu/Zn ratio in two 36-sample series of bladder cancer tissue and sera from patients with this neoplasm were matched with those of the control group. The amount of trace elements in every tissue sample was determined using atomic absorption spectrometry. This was correlated with tumor stage. Results: While the copper concentrations reached statistically higher values in the bladder cancer tissue, the zinc levels in the sera and bladder tissue of the patients with this carcinoma were substantially lower as compared to those of the control group. The serum Cu/Zn ratio was significantly higher in the bladder cancer group and this increase was greater in the patients with muscle-invasive neoplasm. Conclusions: The results obtained suggest a relationship between trace elements and the bladder cancer.
The effects of social power and disparagement humor on the evaluations of subordinates
Authors: Argüello Catalina , Willis Guillermo B. , Carretero-Dios Hugo
Published: September 2012

This article examines the effects of social power and disparagement humor on the evaluation of subordinates. According to prejudiced norm theory, it is proposed that powerful people, compared with the powerless, are more likely to negatively evaluate subordinates when exposed to disparagement humor against subordinates. To test this hypothesis, two studies were conducted. Study 1 (N = 116) aimed to analyze and select humorous material (neutral vs. disparagement humor against subordinates) that allowed us to test our hypothesis. Study 2 (N = 116) investigated the effect of the exposure to disparagement humor in people who hold or not a power position. Results showed an interaction between power and type of humor: when powerful people were exposed to disparagement humor they evaluated subordinates worse than the powerless, whereas when they were exposed to neutral humor there were no differences between groups. The implications of these results are discussed.
Power increases the reliance on first-impression thoughts
Authors: Briñol Pablo , Petty Richard E. , Stavraki Maria
Published: September 2012

The present research examines the effect of power in impression formation. In line with prior research on persuasion, we hypothesized that having power increases reliance on thoughts relative to being powerless. Participants in this experiment were first led to generate either positive or negative thoughts about a job candidate by providing them with a strong or weak vita. Following this manipulation, participants were instructed to remember episodes of their lives in which they either had power over others or others had power over them. Relative to powerless participants, those induced to feel powerful showed more reliance on the thoughts listed. As a consequence, the effect of the direction of the thoughts on subsequent judgments of the job candidate (including judgments of competence and warmth) was greater for participants with high, as opposed to low power. These results reveal for the first time that power can validate what people think about other people.
Direct debit or pay in person? Power, action, and goal maintenance
Authors: Guinote Ana , Ong Tiffanie
Published: September 2012

Power leads to action and facilitates goal pursuit. The present study examines the joint effects of power and action demands on the ability to maintain the pursuit of goals. It is proposed that the power advantage in goal pursuit is particularly pronounced when goal striving requires high level of activity. Participants were assigned to a powerful or a powerless role and pursued a goal either in a passive or in an active self-regulatory mode. Level of activity affected powerless but not powerful participants: powerless participants gave up goal pursuit earlier when the level of activity required to maintain the goal was high (i.e., showed the typical passive-option effect), whereas this was not the case for powerful participants. The implications of these findings are discussed.
Representaciones sociales del pasado: la dictadura militar argentina en la memoria colectiva
Authors: Arnoso-Martínez Maitane , Arnoso-Martínez Ainara , Pérez-Sales Pau
Published: September 2012

Este artículo analiza qué lugar ocupa la última dictadura militar argentina como acontecimiento histórico en la memoria colectiva (MC) de la población y las representaciones sociales de ésta en base a una muestra de población adulta de Jujuy (N = 452). De los resultados se desprende que la dictadura constituye un hecho central que evoca emociones de impotencia, tristeza y bronco1. Se deslegitima la teoría de los dos demonios o que el golpe fue la respuesta a una situación de guerra entre guerrilleros y Fuerzas Armadas, aun cuando persisten explicaciones legitimadoras entre las personas de derecha y con un bajo nivel de exposición a la violencia. Se detecta la persistencia de explicaciones basadas en la irracionalidad de la violencia, presentes en un porcentaje significativo de la población, principalmente con una ideología de centro y con una afectación secundaria, alertando sobre la importancia de explicar la lógica racional y sistemática de la violencia política. Los análisis clúster confirman que las respuestas cerradas y abiertas convergen en tres tipologías de respuestas y que éstas dependen de las experiencias de victimización y la ideología de las personas. La representación social del genocidio político, responsabiliza más al régimen y menos a las víctimas de la violencia, tiene más carga emocional, y es dominante en la izquierda y entre víctimas directas, siendo marginal entre las derechas.
Explorando los flancos de la lealtad: análisis de la estructura y significado de la dimensión normativa del compromiso organizacional
Authors: Arciniega Luis M. , González Luis
Published: September 2012

A pesar de la extensa validación transcultural del modelo de compromiso organizacional de Meyer y Allen (1991), han surgido ciertas dudas respecto a la independencia de los componentes afectivo y normativo y, también, sobre la unidimensionalidad de este último. Este estudio analiza la estabilidad de la estructura del modelo y examina el comportamiento de la escala normativa, empleando 100 muestras, de 250 sujetos cada una, extraídas aleatoriamente de una base de datos de 4.689 empleados. Los resultados muestran cierta estabilidad del modelo, y apoyan parcialmente a la corriente que propone el desdoblamiento del componente normativo en dos subdimensiones: el deber moral y el sentimiento de deuda moral.
Controlling others and controlling oneself: Social power and emotion suppression
Authors: Petkanopoulou Katerina , Willis Guillermo B. , Rodríguez-Bailón Rosa
Published: September 2012

Power is associated with living in reward-rich environments and causes behavioural disinhibition (Keltner, Grumfeld & Anderson, 2003). Powerful people also have greater freedom of emotional expression (Hecht & La France, 1998). Two studies were conducted with the aim of: a) analyzing the effect of dispositional power on emotion suppression, and b) exploring the simple and interaction effects of dispositional and situational power on emotion suppression. In a first correlational study, the power of individuals was found to be negatively correlated with emotion suppression. In a second experimental study, participants were assigned to a powerful or powerless position and negative emotions were induced with pictures. Participants were asked to suppress their emotions during the presentation of the pictures. Participants' emotion suppression was measured using the suppression subscale of the Emotion Regulation Questionnaire (Gross & John, 2003). Results showed that dispositionally powerless participants suppressed their emotions more than dispositionally powerful participants only when they were assigned to a low power position. These results are discussed.
Power: Its Social Psychology
Authors: Rodríguez-Bailón Rosa , Willis Guillermo B.
Published: September 2012

Power differences are an inherent feature of most organizations and relationships. However, little attention was devoted to their study within Social Psychology until the last two decades. In recent years, a group of scholars have tried to bring power to the forefront of research in Social Psychology studying its antecedents, effects, and psychological underpinnings. The results of their research have shown that power can have both positive and negative effects, and some moderators (e.g. its legitimacy and stability) tilt the balance toward one side or the other. The collection of studies included in this issue attempts to show the importance of the topic in current research in the area of Social Psychology.
Illegitimacy undermines leader creativity only under stable power
Authors: Sligte Daniel J. , Greer Lindred L. , de Dreu Carsten K. W.
Published: September 2012

Power hierarchies are ubiquitous in human societies and can improve behavioral coordination, efficiency and individual incentives to climb the hierarchical ladder. However, when power differentials lack legitimacy or are unstable, power struggles and conflict may emerge, as low power people may try to seize power. Power struggles and conflict at the interpersonal level can impede interpersonal cooperation, increase interpersonal competition, and distract individuals from the task at hand (Greer & Van Kleef, 2010). Here we examined the interactive effects of legitimacy and stability of power differences at an interpersonal level, and found that under power instability, legitimacy did not alter the creativity of highpower individuals. Under power stability, however, more creative insights were achieved when power was legitimate rather than illegitimate. Implications are discussed.
Protective factors, parenting and child abuse: An ecological model
Authors: Gaxiola-Romero José-Concepción , Frías-Armenta Martha
Published: September 2012

The aim of the study was to evaluate the protective effects of parenting on child abuse using the ecological theory of Bronfenbrenner. 183 mothers, living in Hermosillo Sonora, a north-western city of Mexico, with a history of abuse participated in the study. Results were analyzed using structural equation modelling, showing that the protective factor is made up of exosystem, microsystem, and ontosystem variables, history of child abuse affected k factor and this variable moderated the effects of protective factors. Child abuse was predicted by history of abuse and the protective factor affected parenting moderating the effects of the mothers' history of abuse.
Quality of life in residential environments
Authors: Perlaviciute Goda , Steg Linda
Published: September 2012

This paper proposes a different approach to study residential well-being, i.e. a quality of life (QoL) approach, that complements common approaches in this area. Under this approach, residential well-being is defined and studied as the extent to which important needs and values of residents are satisfied under given residential conditions. We argue that measuring QoL in a particular neighbourhood helps to assess residential well-being, to explain what determines residential well-being, and to identify which changes may improve residential well-being in that neighbourhood. In a study on the QoL of residents in Groningen (the Netherlands), we provided initial support for the applicability of the QoL measure to study residential well-being and demonstrated how the QoL approach may serve the functions discussed above.
Calidad de vida en entornos residenciales
Authors: Perlaviciute Goda , Steg Linda
Published: September 2012

Este artículo propone un enfoque diferente para el estudio del bienestar residencial, un enfoque centrado en la calidad de vida (CdV, QoL en inglés), y que complementa a otras perspectivas más comunes en esta área. Según este enfoque, el bienestar residencial se define y estudia como la medida en que se satisfacen las necesidades y valores de los residentes bajo determinadas condiciones residenciales. Argumentamos que la evaluación de la CdV en un barrio en concreto ayuda a evaluar el bienestar residencial, a explicar qué determina el bienestar residencial, y a identificar qué cambios pueden contribuir a la mejora del bienestar residencial en ese barrio. En un estudio sobre la calidad de vida de los habitantes de Groningen (Países Bajos), encontramos un apoyo inicial a la aplicabilidad de la evaluación de la calidad de vida al estudio del bienestar residencial, y demostramos la forma en que este enfoque puede cumplir las funciones mencionadas.
Factores protectores, estilos de crianza y maltrato infantil: un modelo ecológico
Authors: Gaxiola-Romero José-Concepción , Frías-Armenta Martha
Published: September 2012

El objetivo del estudio fue evaluar empleando la teoría ecológica de Bronfenbrenner, los efectos de factores protectores en la crianza y en el maltrato infantil. 183 madres con historia de abuso que viven en la ciudad de Hermosillo, Sonora, México aceptaron participar en el estudio. Los resultados fueron analizados empleando ecuaciones estructurales y muestran que el factor k modula los factores protectores. El abuso infantil con los hijos fue predicho por la historia de abuso de las madres y elfactor protector predijo los estilos de crianza amortiguando los efectos de la historia de abuso de las madres. Los resultados indican que la protección de la historia de abuso está relacionada con variables encontradas en el exosistema, microsistema y ontosistema.
La búsqueda de los posibles orígenes de una actitud favorable hacia la naturaleza
Authors: Roczen Nina , Duvier Caroline , Bogner Franz X. , Kaiser Florian G.
Published: September 2012

El objetivo de esta investigación era explorar empíricamente algunos de los posibles orígenes de una actitud favorable hacia la naturaleza, mediante el uso de datos retrospectivos y transversales. En dos estudios, examinamos el papel de las experiencias gratificantes en la naturaleza. En el estudio 1, basado en datos procedentes de entrevistas realizadas a cuatro estudiantes escogidos de una muestra más amplia de estudiantes anteriormente entrevistados (N = 217) de una escuela de Bavaria, Alemania, comprobamos si dos estudiantes cuyas actitudes hacia la naturaleza se habían identificado con anterioridad como marcadamente positivas recordaban más experiencias placenteras y/o reparadoras en la naturaleza que los dos estudiantes con actitudes menos favorables. Encontramos que los estudiantes con actitudes positivas hacia la naturaleza recordaban alrededor del doble de experiencias gratificantes en la naturaleza que los estudiantes con actitudes comparativamente menos favorables hacia la naturaleza. En el estudio 2, basado en los datos de una encuesta a 496 estudiantes de otras dos escuelas de gramática en Bavaria, Alemania, exploramos más a fondo las formas en que la facilidad de acceso a la naturaleza y el contacto con la naturaleza podrían haber contribuido al desarrollo de una actitud positiva hacia ella. Nuestro modelo teórico anticipaba que la facilidad de acceso a la naturaleza y el contacto con la naturaleza serían efectivas exclusivamente por medio de las experiencias gratificantes; en este trabajo confirmamos que tener experiencias gratificantes es un potente mediador, necesario para convertir el contacto con la naturaleza en una actitud favorable.