bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Insights into Nephrotic Syndrome in Pediarics: Case Series Analysis
Authors: Sireesha Vankodoth , Sultana Asiya , Sri P. Ramya , Mateen Ayesha , Shiva M. , Rao T. Rama
Published: May 2024

Nephrotic syndrome (NS) is one of the most common childhood kidney diseases. NS can affect children of any age from infancy to adolescence and predominantly occurs in the age group of 1–6 years. It is an illness caused by idiopathic diseases like minimal change nephrotic syndrome (MCNS) and focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS), membrane proliferative Glomerulonephritis, membranous Glomerulonephritis and is characterized by increased permeability across the glomerular filtration barrier. NS is classified as primary, secondary, and congenital. It consists of four clinical features like severe proteinuria, edema, hyperlipidaemia, hypoalbuminemia. The main cause of nephrotic syndrome are diseases associated with drugs and rarely genetic disorders. The pathogenesis of the disease affects various biological functions linked to loss of proteins negatively, which results in systemic complications which may be disease and drug-associated complications. Using drugs to treat NS leads to several complications which include improper growth, metabolism, behavior change inpatient. Itis a chronic relapsing disease for most of the steroid response drugs for treatment of nephrotic syndrome. Glucocorticoids, immunosuppressants and biological agents are used for the treatment of the diseases. In this case series, we presented a case series of nephrotic syndrome in pediatrics. Total 4 patients were taken into considerations. The patients came with a chief complaints of swelling of face, foamy urine, abdominal pain, dark coloured urine with decreased urine output, joint pains. The laboratory investigations for all the 4 patients showed that there were decrease in albumin levels (hypoalbuminemia), decrease in serum creatinine levels and protein in urine, although kidney biopsy couldn’t be perform but the diagnosis was made based on clinical and laboratory findings. The patients were mainly treated with prednisolone, pantoprazole, enalapril, nifedipine, amoxiclav, and even albumin transfusion were done. NS was successfully managed and fortunately the patients recovered.
Estimation Involving a Class of Special Arithmetical Functions
Authors: Yu Tingwei
Published: May 2024

The mean value estimation of arithmetical function is closely related to many problems in number theory. Let f be an arithmetical function satisfying some conditions. Let [r] be the integral part of r. This paper proves that the asymptotic expression $$S_f(y):=\sum_{n \leq y} f([y / n]) /\left([y / n]^{k-1}\right)\left(k \in \mathbb{N}^{+}\right)$$ and the error term of this asymptotic formula is \(\Omega\)(y). The arithmetical function in this paper satisfies certain conditions, and the Dirichlet hyperbolic principle is used in the proof of the conclusion. With the different values of the independent variable of the function, the function value of the arithmetical function is often irregular, and the property of the mean value of the arithmetical function is more regular than that of the arithmetical function itself. Therefore, with the help of the mean value estimation results of the arithmetical function, we can have a deeper understanding of the nature of the arithmetical function itself, and then provide ideas for solving more problems.
Effect of Aqueous Extract of Cannabis Sativa Leaf on the Motor Coordination Using the Hanging Wire and Open Field Neurobehavioural Tests in Male Wistar Rats
Authors: Demshimeno Paul, , Ukoha Ukoha , Aguwa Ugochukwu
Published: May 2024

Cannabis sativa is a commonly abused drug especially among younger people in society. The cerebellum is located at the back of the brain, immediately inferior to the occipital and temporal lobes within the posterior cranial fossa. The study was designed to show the effect of aqueous leave extract of cannabis sativa on the performance of male Wistar rats in the hanging wire and open field neurobehavioural tests. A total of 40 Wistar rats were used and grouped into five groups. Group I received distilled water for 28 days. Group II, III, IV and V served as the low, high, low dose recovery and high dose recovery group respectively. Group II were administered with 10mg/kg body weight of cannabis sativa leave aqueous extract for 28 days. Group III were administered with 20mg/kg body weight of cannabis sativa leave aqueous extract for 28 days. Group IV was administered with 10mg/kg body weight of cannabis sativa leave aqueous extract for 28days and were allowed for further 28 days without any administration while group V received 20mg/kg body weight of cannabis sativa for 28 days and were allowed for further 28days without administration. Group IV and V represent the recovery group. Group I, II and III were sacrificed a day after their last intubation. The result of the study showed that the administration of cannabis Sativa did not significantly change the outcome of the open field test at the final stage compared to the initial but group E showed significant decrease in hanging time following exposure to cannabis sativa. We can therefore conclude that administration of cannabis sativa at 10mg/kg and 20mg/kg for 28 days did not adversely affect rats performance in the neurobehavioural tests carried out.
Description of Wound Patterns on the Bodies of Murder Victims due to Blunt Violence at the Bhayangkara Tk General Hospital. I East Jakarta Police Health Center for the 2021 – 2022 Period
Authors: Angreni Frisca , Pellondo'u Theza Elizianno Andrew , Noor Aresta Redina
Published: May 2024

Murder is the behavior of a person or group of people that results in the loss of another person's life. Murder incidents can be motivated by various reasons so that someone plans or executes the murder of another person. Blunt trauma is a condition caused by mechanical violence from a blunt object. Blunt trauma can cause abrasions, contusions, lacerations, and fractures. This study aims to determine the pattern of wounds on the bodies of murder victims resulting from the blunt force at the Bhayangkara General Hospital Tk. I, Pusdokkes Polri, East Jakarta, for the period 2021 – 2022. This research uses a retrospective descriptive research method with a total sampling method using data from application letters for post-mortem and repertum and post-mortem et repertum for murder victims at the Pusdokkes Polri Hospital. The data results showed that there were 55 victims of murder due to blunt force, with the largest age distribution in the 31-40 year age group with 17 victims (30.9%). Based on gender, the highest number of victims were men - 28 victims (50.9%), while there were 27 victims (49.1%) for women. Based on the time group, the most incidents were found in 06.01-12.00 with 22 victims (40%). Based on the injury location group, the largest number of victims with injuries to the head and face was 51 victims (29.1%). Based on the type of violence, 41 victims (39.4%) had the most bruises on the head and face, 11 victims (47.8%) had the most bruises on the neck, and five victims had bruises on the shoulder (55.6%), at the chest location, the most abrasion wounds were found, namely ten victims (41.7%), at the back location there were nine victims (56.3%), at the stomach location the number of bruises was found at seven victims (58.3%), at the pelvic location there were abrasions and fractures each with one victim (50.0%), at the upper extremity location the most were bruises with 18 victims (40.9%), and at the location of the lower extremities found the highest number of bruises, namely 14 victims (41.2%).
Development and Performance Evaluation of Synbiotic Red Banana Yoghurt
Authors: N Harshapriya , H Manjunatha , B Rajunaik , A R Praveen , L Malashree , B Ramachandra
Published: May 2024

Aims: The present study aimed at the production of yoghurt with different levels of red banana pulp (5, 7.5, 10, 12.5, 15%)
Study Design: Development of red banana pulp incorporated probiotic yoghurt and its performance evaluation.
Place and Duration of Study: Department of Dairy Microbiology, Dairy Science College, Hebbal, Bengaluru, Karnataka Veterinary, Animal and Fisheries Sciences University, Bidar,
Karnataka, India. Between June 2022 and March 2023.
Methodology: The red banana pulp incorporated probiotic yoghurt was developed and subjected to sensory analysis by the panel of judges using 9-point hedonic scale, analyzed for milk set time, acidity and viability and the best combination was selected.
Results: The 10% concentration of red banana pulp was selected which showed 2.3 h of milk set time, acidity of 0.74% LA, viable log count/g was 9.50 and overall acceptability score was 8.25. The contaminants like coliforms and yeast and molds were absent. The 10% concentration showed no significant difference (P =.05) with the control sample in milk set time and acidity, while significant difference was observed in viability among the different concentrations. The samples were analyzed for synerisis which was 9.30%, water activity was 0.939, viscosity was 6.08cP and color intensity L* was 80.17, a* was -0.85 and b* was 8.68, for the developed red banana pulp incorporated probiotic yoghurt.
Conclusion: The developed product improves the acceptability and provides benefits of both probiotics and red banana for the consumers.
Identifying early signs of aggression: psychometric properties of the cardiff infant contentiousness scale
Authors: Hay Dale F. , Perra Oliver , Hudson Kathryn , Waters Cerith S. , Mundy Lisa , Phillips Rebecca , Goodyer Ian , Harold Gordon , Thapar Anita , van Goozen Stephanie
Published: October 2010

Our aim was to develop an age‐appropriate measure of early manifestations of aggression. We constructed a questionnaire about normative developmental milestones into which a set of items measuring infants' use of physical force against people and expressed anger were included. These items comprise the Cardiff Infant Contentiousness Scale (CICS). Evidence for the reliability and validity of the CICS is provided from analyses of a sample of N=310 British infants, assessed at a mean age of 6 months as part of a larger longitudinal study of the development of aggression. The informants' CICS ratings demonstrated reasonable levels of internal consistency and interrater agreement. Informants' ratings were validated by observations of infants' distress in response to restraint in a car seat. Longitudinal analyses revealed that contentiousness was stable over time and that contentiousness at 6 months predicted infants' later use of force with peers. When used in the company of other methods, the simple four‐item CICS scale could serve as a useful screen for early manifestations of aggressiveness in human infants. Aggr. Behav. 36:351–357, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Bulk Metallic Glass: The Smaller the Better
Authors: Kumar Golden , Desai Amish , Schroers Jan
Published: October 2010

Bulk metallic glasses (BMGs) are strong, highly elastic, and resistant to wear but still find limited utility due to their macroscopic brittle nature, high costs, and difficulty of processing, particularly when complex shapes are desired. These drawbacks can be mitigated when BMGs are used in miniature parts (< 1 cm), an application which takes advantage of BMGs' enhanced plasticity at small length scales as well the insignificant material cost associated with such parts. As an alternative to traditional metal processing techniques, thermoplastic forming (TPF)‐based microfabrication methods have been developed which can process some BMGs like plastics. In this article, we discuss the properties and fabrication of BMGs on minuscule length scales to explore their prospective application in small‐scale devices.
Enzyme Mimics Based Upon Supramolecular Coordination Chemistry
Authors: Wiester Michael J. , Ulmann Pirmin A. , Mirkin Chad A.
Published: October 2010

Recent advances in supramolecular coordination chemistry have allowed chemists to synthesize macromolecular complexes that exhibit various properties intrinsic to enzymes. This Review focuses on structures inspired by properties and functions observed in enzymes rather than precise models of enzyme active sites. These structures are synthesized using convergent, modular, and high‐yielding coordination‐chemistry‐based methods, which allow one to tailor the size, shape, and properties of the resulting complexes. Many of the structures discussed exhibit reactivity and specificity reminiscent of natural systems, and some of them have functions that exceed the natural systems which provided the inspiration for initially making them.
Poisoning Experiments Aimed at Discriminating Active and Less‐Active Sites of Silica‐Supported Tantalum Hydride for Alkane Metathesis
Authors: Saggio Guillaume , Taoufik Mostafa , Basset Jean‐Marie , Thivolle‐Cazat Jean
Published: October 2010

Only 50 % of the silica‐supported tantalum hydride sites are active in the metathesis of propane. Indeed, more than 45 % of the tantalum hydride can be eliminated by a selective oxygen poisoning of inactive sites with no significant decrease in the global turnover. Conversely, cyclopentane induces no such selective poisoning. Hence, the active tantalum hydride sites that show greater resistance to oxygen poisoning correspond to the νTaH bands of higher wavenumbers, particularly that at 1860 cm−1. These active tantalum hydride sites should correspond to tris‐ or monohydride species relatively far from silica surface oxygen atoms.
Catalytic Hydrogenation Using Abnormal N‐Heterocyclic Carbene Palladium Complexes: Catalytic Scope and Mechanistic Insights
Authors: Heckenroth Marion , Khlebnikov Vsevolod , Neels Antonia , Schurtenberger Peter , Albrecht Martin
Published: October 2010

Palladium complexes containing abnormally bound C4‐bound dicarbene ligands have been exploited for catalytic alkene hydrogenation. Comparison to normally C2‐bound homologues indicates that the carbene bonding mode critically influences the catalytic activity. Good catalytic performance in the hydrogenation of cis‐disubstituted olefins and non‐isomerizable terminal olefins under mild conditions (RT, 0.1 MPa H2) only occurs when the carbene is abnormally bound to the palladium center. Detailed mechanistic investigations using dynamic light scattering in connection with time‐dependent analysis of conversions, and also performance of substoichiometric catalytic experiments provide evidence that the catalysis is heterogeneous and that the abnormally bound carbene ligand has the role of an activator.
Synthesis and Structural Aspects of N‐Triflylphosphoramides and Their Calcium Salts—Highly Acidic and Effective Brønsted Acids
Authors: Rueping Magnus , Nachtsheim Boris J. , Koenigs René M. , Ieawsuwan Winai
Published: October 2010

Recently, 1,1′‐bi‐2‐naphthol (BINOL)‐based N‐triflylphosphoramides emerged as a new class of potent Brønsted acid catalysts. In this paper we describe the efficient synthesis of various BINOL‐based N‐triflylphosphoramides and their calcium salts. Furthermore, X‐ray crystal structure analysis combined with energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDX) measurements confirmed that the synthesised chiral N‐triflylphosphoramides are highly acidic metal‐free catalysts.
Consequences of the halloween nightmare: analysis of investorsõ response to an overnight tax legislation change in the canadian income trust sector
Authors: Glew Ian A. , Johnson Lewis D.
Published: October 2010

On October 31, 2006, the Canadian federal government announced increased taxation of income trusts, beginning in 2011. Using discounted cash flow analysis, we investigated timing of the market adjustment. Energy, utility, and business trust prices dropped by predicted amounts, indicating a rational market response. Following the announcement, however, affected sectors reacted differently: Energy and utility trusts were more likely to merge within their sectors while business trusts became private equity targets. The income trust case is a classic example of a natural event, and our results underscore the efficiency of Canadian capital markets. Copyright © 2010 ASAC. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Relationship between positive psychological capital and creative performance
Authors: Sweetman David , Luthans Fred , Avey James B. , Luthans Brett C.
Published: October 2010

Despite considerable attention to the creative process and its relationship with personal characteristics, there is no published study focused directly on the relationship between the recently recognized core construct of psychological capital (PsyCap) and creative performance. Drawing from a large (N = 899) and heterogeneous sample of working adults, this study investigates PsyCap and its components (i.e., efficacy, hope, optimism, and resilience) as predictors of creative performance. Overall PsyCap predicted creative performance over and above each of the four PsyCap components. Theoretical and practical implications of these findings are considered. Copyright © 2010 ASAC. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Twenty years of follow‐up of survivors of childhood osteosarcoma
Authors: Nagarajan Rajaram , Kamruzzaman Anmmd , Ness Kirsten K. , Marchese Victoria G. , Sklar Charles , Mertens Ann , Yasui Yutaka , Robison Leslie L. , Marina Neyssa
Published: October 2010

BACKGROUND:

Osteosarcoma survivors have received significant chemotherapy and have undergone substantial surgeries. Their very long‐term outcomes (20 year) are reported here.

METHODS:

The authors assessed the long‐term outcomes of 733 5‐year survivors of childhood osteosarcoma diagnosed from 1970 to 1986 to provide a comprehensive evaluation of medical and psychosocial outcomes for survivors enrolled in the Childhood Cancer Survivor Study (CCSS). Outcomes evaluated included overall survival, second malignant neoplasms (SMNs), recurrent osteosarcoma, chronic health conditions, health status (general and mental health and functional limitations), and psychosocial factors. Outcomes of osteosarcoma survivors were compared with general‐population statistics, other CCSS survivors, and CCSS siblings.

RESULTS:

Survivors had a mean follow‐up of 21.6 years. The overall survival of children diagnosed with osteosarcoma who survived 5 years at 20 years from original diagnosis was 88.6% (95% confidence interval [CI], 86.6%‐90.5%). The cumulative incidence of SMNs at 25 years was 5.4%, with a standardized incidence ratio of 4.79 (95% CI, 3.54‐6.33; P<.01). Overall, 86.9% of osteosarcoma survivors experienced at least 1 chronic medical condition, and >50% experienced ≥2 conditions. Compared with survivors of other cancers, osteosarcoma survivors did not differ in their reported general health status (odds ratio [OR], 0.9; 95% CI, 0.7‐1.2), but were more likely to report an adverse health status in at least 1 domain (OR, 1.9; 95% CI, 1.6‐2.2), with activity limitations (29.1%) being the most common.

CONCLUSIONS:

Childhood osteosarcoma survivors in this cohort did relatively well, considering their extensive treatment, but are at risk of experiencing chronic medical conditions and adverse health status. Survivors warrant life‐long follow‐up. Cancer 2011. © 2010 American Cancer Society.
Gemcitabine and docetaxel in metastatic, castrate‐resistant prostate cancer
Authors: Garcia Jorge A. , Hutson Thomas E. , Shepard Dale , Elson Paul , Dreicer Robert
Published: October 2010

BACKGROUND:

Docetaxel is the standard of care for patients with metastatic, castrate‐resistant prostate cancer (CRPC). Gemcitabine is a nucleoside analogue with broad antitumor activity. In a phase 2 study of combined docetaxel and gemcitabine, the authors assessed its safety and activity in patients with chemotherapy‐naive, metastatic CRPC.

METHODS:

Eligible patients had untreated, metastatic CRPC with radiologic and/or biochemical evidence of progression after antiandrogen withdrawal with castrate testosterone levels, an Eastern Cooperative Oncology performance status (ECOG PS) of 0 to 2, and adequate organ function; no previous chemotherapy was permitted. Patients received gemcitabine (800 mg/m2) Days 1 and 8 and docetaxel (75 mg/m2) on Day 8 every 21 days for a maximum of 6 cycles. Response was evaluated using Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors (RECIST) for measurable disease. A prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) response was defined as a decline ≥50% in baseline PSA level.

RESULTS:

Thirty‐five patients with chemotherapy‐naive, metastatic CRPC were enrolled. The median age was 67 years, and 60% of patients had an ECOG PS of 0. PSA responses were observed in 49% of patients. Among the patients who had measurable disease (n = 25), 3 patients (12%) had a confirmed, RECIST‐defined partial response (PR); 4 patients (16%) had an unconfirmed PR; and 15 patients (60%) achieved stable disease. The most common adverse events included grade 1 and 2 fatigue (69%), alopecia (80%), and nausea/vomiting (54%). No treatment‐related deaths were noted, but an unusually high incidence of grade 3 and 4 neutropenia was observed.

CONCLUSIONS:

The efficacy of combined gemcitabine and docetaxel in metastatic CRPC was similar to that observed with single‐agent docetaxel. In contrast to single‐agent docetaxel, the combination was moderately toxic and had an impact primarily on bone marrow reserve. Cancer 2011. © 2010 American Cancer Society.
Structural and reliability analysis of a patient satisfaction with cancer‐related care measure
Authors: Jean‐Pierre Pascal , Fiscella Kevin , Freund Karen M. , Clark Jack , Darnell Julie , Holden Alan , Post Douglas , Patierno Steven R. , Winters Paul C. ,   the Patient Navigation Research Program Group
Published: October 2010

BACKGROUND:

Patient satisfaction is an important outcome measure of quality of cancer care and 1 of the 4 core study outcomes of the National Cancer Institute (NCI)‐sponsored Patient Navigation Research Program to reduce race/ethnicity‐based disparities in cancer care. There is no existing patient satisfaction measure that spans the spectrum of cancer‐related care. The objective of this study was to develop a Patient Satisfaction With Cancer Care measure that is relevant to patients receiving diagnostic/therapeutic cancer‐related care.

METHODS:

The authors developed a conceptual framework, an operational definition of Patient Satisfaction With Cancer Care, and an item pool based on literature review, expert feedback, group discussion, and consensus. The 35‐item Patient Satisfaction With Cancer Care measure was administered to 891 participants from the multisite NCI‐sponsored Patient Navigation Research Program. Principal components analysis (PCA) was conducted for latent structure analysis. Internal consistency was assessed using Cronbach coefficient alpha (α). Divergent analysis was performed using correlation analyses between the Patient Satisfaction With Cancer Care, the Communication and Attitudinal Self‐Efficacy–Cancer, and demographic variables.

RESULTS:

The PCA revealed a 1‐dimensional measure with items forming a coherent set explaining 62% of the variance in patient satisfaction. Reliability assessment revealed high internal consistency (α ranging from 0.95 to 0.96). The Patient Satisfaction With Cancer Care demonstrated good face validity, convergent validity, and divergent validity, as indicated by moderate correlations with subscales of the Communication and Attitudinal Self‐Efficacy–Cancer (all P < .01) and nonsignificant correlations with age, primary language, marital status, and scores on the Rapid Estimate of Adult Literacy in Medicine Long Form (all P > .05).

CONCLUSIONS:

The Patient Satisfaction With Cancer Care is a valid tool for assessing satisfaction with cancer‐related care for this sample. Cancer 2011. © 2010 American Cancer Society.
Intolerance to tyrosine kinase inhibitors in chronic myeloid leukemia
Authors: Pinilla‐Ibarz Javier , Cortes Jorge , Mauro Michael J.
Published: October 2010

Tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) treatment targeting breakpoint cluster region‐Abelson murine leukemia virus, the cause of chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), has revolutionized therapy for patients with this disease. The majority of patients with CML maintain favorable responses with long‐term imatinib therapy; however, the availability of the second‐generation TKIs nilotinib and dasatinib limits the need for patients intolerant to imatinib to continue with therapy. Unfortunately, there is currently no standard definition of intolerance to imatinib. Common Toxicity Criteria for grading adverse events, designed to identify acute toxicities, are often used to determine intolerance. However, because CML therapies are long‐term, patient quality of life may provide a better measure of true intolerance. Several general methods of quantifying patient quality of life are in use for patients with CML, and a CML‐specific variant of the M. D. Anderson Symptom Inventory is in development. An appropriate and consistent definition of intolerance will provide clinicians with an algorithm for managing their patients with severe or chronic adverse events during treatment with imatinib. As more long‐term data become available for newer TKIs, the definition of intolerance in the context of CML treatment will continue to evolve to maximize the likelihood of durable responses and superior quality of life for patients. Cancer 2011. © 2010 American Cancer Society.
Single‐Molecule Fluorescence Coincidence Spectroscopy and its Application to Resonance Energy Transfer
Authors: Orte Angel , Clarke Richard W. , Klenerman David
Published: October 2010

The use of Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) as a tool to study biomolecules has been greatly enhanced by new advances in single‐molecule fluorescence (SMF) techniques. This has allowed new insights into the structure and dynamics of complex biomolecular machinery. However, there are still technical drawbacks in the application of conventional SMF–FRET. Herein, we review the use of single‐molecule coincidence spectroscopy to study FRET systems, an analytical variation of the conventional scheme, using one or two confocal lasers of different colours. We highlight the advantages of the coincidence spectroscopy and illustrate this with examples of its application to some biological systems of interest.
Synthesis, Structure, and Sensor Properties of Vanadium Pentoxide Nanorods
Authors: Grigorieva Anastasia V. , Badalyan Siranuysh M. , Goodilin Eugene A. , Rumyantseva Marina N. , Gaskov Alexander M. , Birkner Alexander , Tretyakov Yuri D.
Published: October 2010

Vanadium oxide nanorods were prepared by a hydrothermal route and then tested as a transducer for a resistive‐type gas sensor. The importance of control of pH and pressure during the synthesis of 1D crystals of vanadium oxide was demonstrated for the V2O5/ethanol mixture, which served as a precursor. As a gas sensor element, the nanorods demonstrated a stable response to triethylamine and weak sensor response to carbon monoxide with a short response time (as low as 32 s).
A3B‐Type Phthalocyanine‐Based Homoleptic Lanthanide(III) Double‐Decker π‐Radical Complexes Bearing Functional Hydroxy Groups: Synthetic Approach, Spectral Properties and Electrochemical Study
Authors: Pushkarev Victor E. , Tolbin Alexander Yu. , Borisova Nataliya E. , Trashin Stanislav A. , Tomilova Larisa G.
Published: October 2010

The sandwich lanthanide(III) complexes BnO,BuPc2Ln (BnO,BuPc = 2‐benzyloxy‐9,10,16,17,23,24‐hexa‐n‐butylphthalocyaninate; Ln = Eu, Lu) (1a, 1b) were obtained from [Ln(acac)3]·nH2O and BnO,BuPcH2 by heating these compounds in n‐hexadecanol, and then treating the reaction solution with H2SO4 to yield the corresponding neutral double‐decker complexes HO,BuPc2Ln (HO,BuPc = 9,10,16,17,23,24‐hexa‐n‐butyl‐2‐hydroxyphthalocyaninate) (2a, 2b), which are promising structural building blocks and stable phenolic hydroxy group containing π‐radical species. A combination of UV/Vis/NIR, NMR spectroscopy, MALDI‐TOF mass spectrometry, cyclic voltammetry and spectroelectrochemistry provided unambiguous characterization of the newly prepared bis(phthalocyanines), and also allowed their stability and behavior in solution to be investigated.
Cobalt‐Catalyzed C–N Bond‐Forming Reaction between Chloronitrobenzenes and Secondary Amines
Authors: Toma Gabriel , Yamaguchi Ryohei
Published: October 2010

Cyclic secondary amines react with mono‐ or dichloronitrobenzene in the presence of a catalytic amount of cobalt(II) chloride. Phosphane ligands are beneficial for the reaction, although the bite‐angle effect was not strong. The nitro‐substituted tertiary amines formed are important as bioactive compounds and can also be intermediates for the synthesis of substituted anilines. This work represents the first cobalt‐catalyzed approach to C–N bond‐forming reactions involving aromatic chlorides and cyclic secondary amines. The reaction is ortho‐ and para‐selective, with meta‐substituted halides being unreactive in this procedure.
An Efficient Synthesis of Polysubstituted Naphthalene Derivatives by Gold‐Catalyzed Cyclization of 1‐Arylalka‐2,3‐dienyl Acetates
Authors: Kong Wangqing , Fu Chunling , Ma Shengming
Published: October 2010

An efficient synthetic strategy to generate differently polysubstituted naphthalenes and iodonaphthalenes through a gold‐catalyzed cyclization reaction of 1‐arylalka‐2,3‐dienyl acetates was described. Due to the substituent loading capability of both the aromatic ring and the allene moiety, different substituents may be introduced to the different locations of the naphthalenes. A possible mechanism of the reaction involving the formation of alkenyl and naphthyl Au species was proposed on the basis of the mechanistic study.Iodination of the gold species afforded iodonaphthalenes, which are useful building blocks to introduce molecular complexity and diversity by coupling reactions.
Highly Sensitive and Selective Voltammetric Sensor Fullerene Modified Glassy Carbon Electrode for Determination of Cefitizoxime in Solubilized System
Authors: Jain Rajeev , Rather Jahangir Ahmad , Dwivedi Ashish , Vikas
Published: October 2010

The usefulness of fullerene modified glassy carbon electrode in mediating the reduction of cefitizoxime in solubilized system has been demonstrated. Due to the unique structure and extraordinary properties, fullerene shows higher catalytic efficiency towards cefitizoxime reduction. The kinetic parameters, electron transfer coefficient (α) and rate constant (K0) across the modified electrode are 0.37 and 0.1081/s respectively. The proposed square‐wave voltammetric method is linear over the concentration range 1.2–10.3 µg/mL. The limit of detection (LOD) is found 0.27 ng/mL. High sensitivity and selectivity together with low detection limit of the electrode response make it suitable for the determination of cefitizoxime.
Ultrasensitive Simultaneous Quantification of Nanomolar Level of Cd and Zn by Cathodic Adsorptive Stripping Voltammetry in Some Real Samples
Authors: Abbasi Shahryar , Farmany Abbas , Mortazavi Seyede Shima
Published: October 2010

A novel, simple and sensitive adsorptive stripping voltammetry method was developed for simultaneous determination of Cd and Zn using N‐Nitrozo‐N‐phenylhydroxylamine (Cupferron) as a selective complexing agent. Cadmium and zinc metals gave peaks that were distinctly separated by 450–1200 mV, allowing their determination over a wide range of concentrations. The influence of pH and the nature of supporting electrolytes, concentration of ligand, preconcentration time and applied potential were investigated. The detection limits were 0.058 ng/mL for Zn and 0.092 ng/mL for Cd, and the RSD at a concentration level of 50 ppb, were 1.8–2.1 % for both zinc and cadmium, respectively. The method was applied to the determination of cadmium and zinc in blood, drug, food and water samples with the satisfactory results.
Online immunoaffinity assay‐CE using magnetic nanobeads for the determination of anti‐Helicobacter pylori IgG in human serum
Authors: Stege Patricia W. , Raba Julio , Messina Germán A.
Published: October 2010

About two‐thirds of the world's population is infected with Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori). This Gram‐negative bacterium is the most important etiological agent of chronic active type B gastritis and peptic ulcer diseases. Conventional methods such as gastric biopsy, ELISA and culture, require a long time for the determination of H. pylori infections. Moreover, the antibodies in human serum sample are capable to react immunologically with the purified H. pylori antigens immobilized on different kinds of support like magnetic nanobeads. In this study, we have developed an online immunoaffinity assay‐CE to determine the concentration of anti‐H. pylori IgG using magnetic nanobeads as a support of the immunological affinity ligands and an LIF as a detector. The separation was performed in 0.1 M glycine–HCl, pH 2, as the background electrolyte. The linear calibration curve to predict the concentration of H. pylori‐specific immunoglobulin G antibodies in serum was produced within the range of 0.12–100 U/mL. The linear regression equation was i=492.86+96.03×Canti‐H. pylori, with the linear regression coefficient r2=0.999. The LOD calculated by fluorescence detection procedure was of 0.06 U/mL. The whole assay was done in no more than 35 min and it was entirely automatized. The development of immunoaffinity assay‐CE in this study demonstrates that there is a large possibility to introduce nanotechnology in several fields with significant advantages over the classic methodologies. Our proposition comprises the diagnosis and screening field.
The use of novel ionic liquid‐in‐water microemulsion without the addition of organic solvents in a capillary electrophoretic system
Authors: Cao Jun , Qu Haibin , Cheng Yiyu
Published: October 2010

In this work, a new ionic liquid‐in‐water (IL/W) microemulsion without requiring toxic organic solvents was investigated as a pseudostationary phase (PSP) in CE. As observed during the IL/W microemulsion system, a fast and an efficient separation of eight phenolic acids was achieved using 1‐butyl‐3‐methylimidazolivmhexa fluorophosphate (bmimPF6) as oil drops, Tween 20 as the surfactant, and borate as the BGE. The effects of oil phase, surfactant, buffer and pH on the separation were explored in detail to evaluate the novel PSP. In contrast, the detection efficiency of these same analytes was markedly decreased using oil‐in‐water (O/W) MEEKC. We have also validated the practicality of the IL/W microemulsion method by quantitative determination of acidic compounds in pharmaceutical injection. The results obtained indicated that an additional association between the IL cations and analytes tested seemed to play a prominent role in the separation mechanism exhibited by this novel PSP compared with the conventional O/W MEEKC.
Determination of inorganic ions in mineral water by gradient elution moving boundary electrophoresis
Authors: Flanigan Paul M. , Ross David , Shackman Jonathan G.
Published: October 2010

A sensitive method was developed for the determination of the major inorganic ions in commercial mineral waters using gradient elution moving boundary electrophoresis with capacitively coupled contactless conductivity detection. This application was the first to demonstrate the separation of cations and anions simultaneously using gradient elution moving boundary electrophoresis. Seven ionic analytes (calcium, chloride, magnesium, nitrate, potassium, sodium, and sulfate) were separated in less than 7 min with detection values in the low μmol/L to sub‐μmol/L range. Calculated values of the major ions in three commercial mineral waters were compared to reported values with good correlation. In another application, phosphate and arsenate were separated in less than 2 min with limits of detection of 300 and 140 nmol/L, respectively. For all standard analyses, the RSD for migration times and peak areas were under 3%.
Risk factors for dementia in patients over 65 with diabetes
Authors: Parikh Niraj M. , Morgan Robert O. , Kunik Mark E. , Chen Hua , Aparasu Rajender R. , Yadav Ravi K. , Schulz Paul E. , Johnson Michael L.
Published: October 2010

Objective

This study identified factors in patients with diabetes associated with risk of developing dementia.

Research Design and Methods

This retrospective, longitudinal study used a national cohort of US Veterans with diabetes 65 years or older to examine incidence of dementia over 2 years. A multivariable Cox regression model was used to estimate risk of developing dementia associated with sociodemographic factors, use of diabetes medications, and duration of diabetes.

Results

In all, 377 838 patients (average age, 75.53 ± 6.07 years) were studied. Over the 2 year follow‐up, 14 580 (3.85%) were diagnosed with dementia. Major risk factors for dementia were age >75 years (75–85 years, hazard ratio [HR] 2.092, 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.017–2.169; ≥85 years, HR 3.468, CI 3.274–3.672), race black versus white, HR 1.218, CI 1.164–1.274), Southern residence (HR = 1.181, CI 1.133–1.232), and diabetes duration (HR for 5 years or more, 1.428, CI 1.357–1.504). There was a reduced HR for dementia with use of an oral hypoglycemic agent (HR 0.940, CI 0.909–0.972) and HMG‐CoA reductase inhibitors (HR, 0.875, CI 0.846–0.906). There was no change in HR with insulin use (HR 1.024, CI 0.983–1.067).

Conclusions

Several important factors were identified that are associated with increased dementia risk, and two factors were identified that are associated with reduced risk. It will be important to ascertain whether risk‐factor modification reduces the HR for dementia in persons with diabetes, and to further examine effects of medication use for comorbid conditions. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Does a mandatory telemedicine call prior to visiting a physician reduce costs or simply attract good risks?
Authors: Grandchamp Chantal , Gardiol Lucien
Published: October 2010

This paper aims to estimate empirically the efficiency of a Swiss telemedicine service introduced in 2003. We used claims' data gathered by a major Swiss health insurer, over a period of 6 years and involving 160 000 insured adults.

In Switzerland, health insurance is mandatory, but everyone has the option of choosing between a managed care plan and a fee‐for‐service plan. This paper focuses on a conventional fee‐for‐service plan including a mandatory access to a telemedicine service; the insured are obliged to phone this medical call centre before visiting a physician. This type of plan generates much lower average health expenditures than a conventional insurance plan. Reasons for this may include selection, incentive effects or efficiency.

In our sample, about 90% of the difference in health expenditure can be explained by selection and incentive effects. The remaining 10% of savings due to the efficiency of the telemedicine service amount to about SFr 150 per year per insured, of which approximately 60% is saved by the insurer and 40% by the insured. Although the efficiency effect is greater than the cost of the plan, the big winners are the insured who not only save monetary and non‐monetary costs but also benefit from reduced premiums. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Can epigenetics solve the case of the midwife toad?—a comment on Vargas
Authors: Svardal Hannes
Published: October 2010

In a recent article in this journal, A. O. Vargas (2009. J Exp Zool B (Mol Dev Evol) 312:667–678) suggests to interpret the controversial midwife toad experiments of the early 20th century zoologist Paul Kammerer in the context of epigenetic inheritance. For information on Kammerer's work he resorts to a popular science book (Kammerer, '24. The Inheritance of Acquired Characteristics). However, the study of Kammerer's original publications reveals that there are substantial misunderstandings in Vargas' treatment of the subject. While Vargas' general idea—invoking epigenetic effects as an explanation of Kammerer's findings—remains attractive, at least two key aspects of his model need to be revised. Clarification of these issues is an important prerequisite for any experimental design with the aim to (dis)prove Kammerer and to establish a (potential) epigenetic basis of his observations about the mating behavior in midwife toads. J. Exp. Zool. (Mol. Dev. Evol.) 314B:625–628, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Platelet‐rich plasma (PRP) impairs the craniofacial bone repair associated with its elevated TGF‐β levels and modulates the co‐expression between collagen III and α‐smooth muscle actin
Authors: Giovanini Allan Fernando , Gonzaga Carla Castiglia , Zielak João Cesar , Deliberador Tatiana Miranda , Kuczera Juliane , Göringher Isabella , de Oliveira Filho Marco Antonio , Baratto‐Filho Flares , Urban Cícero Andrade
Published: October 2010

Transforming growth factor‐β (TGF‐β) is considered the main inducer of both the α‐smooth muscle actin (α‐SMA) phenotype and collagen synthesis and deposition and plays a significant role in the tissue repair and the development of fibrosis. Since the PRP constitutes an important source of TGF‐β and its efficacy on the craniofacial bone repair remains controversy, the aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of PRP in the presence of levels of TGF‐β on PRP samples, as well as in the presence of collagen III and α‐SMA+ cells, while comparing these results by means of a histomorphometric analysis of the bone matrix and fibrous deposition on the bone repair. Four bone defects of 16 mm2 were created on the calvarium of 21 rabbits. The surgical defects were treated with either particulate autograft, particulate autograft mixed with PRP and PRP alone. Animals were euthanized at 15, 30, and 45 days postoperative. Histomorphometric and immunohistochemical analyses were performed to assess repair time, as well as the expression of collagen III, and α‐SMA. The histomorphometric results demonstrated intensive deposition of fibrous tissue while hinder bone deposition occurred in PRP groups. These results coincided with higher values of the TGF‐β on the PRP sample, also larger occurrence of diffuse collagen III deposition and higher presence of α‐SMA+ cells spread among the fibrous tissue. Thus, the higher levels of TGF‐β associated with the both expression of collagen III and α‐SMA on defect treated with PRP suggest that its biomaterial induce an effect that can be considered similarly to a fibroproliferative disorder. © 2010 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 29:457–463, 2011
ESI‐MS & MS/MS Analysis of Poly(2‐oxazoline)s with Different Side Groups
Authors: Altuntaş Esra , Kempe Kristian , Crecelius Anna , Hoogenboom Richard , Schubert Ulrich S.
Published: October 2010

ESI‐Q‐TOF MS has been used for the detailed characterization of various poly(2‐oxazoline)s with different side groups (i.e. methyl, ethyl, 1‐ethylpentyl, phenyl, o‐difluorophenyl and p‐tert‐butylphenyl) to evaluate this method as structural characterization tool for the detailed analysis of poly(2‐oxazoline)s. The results obtained provided an understanding of the fragmentation of poly(2‐oxazoline)s, revealing the elimination of small molecules such as ethene and hydrogen in their fragmentation patterns, which are partially dependent on the side groups. Also, a McLafferty rearrangement can be a possible fragmentation route for these polymers. In detail, side group elimination was only observed for poly(2‐alkyl‐2‐oxazoline)s, but not for poly(2‐aryl‐2‐oxazoline)s.

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Novel Soluble Fluorene–Thienothiadiazole and Fluorene–Carbazole Copolymers for Optoelectronics
Authors: Cimrová Věra , Kmínek Ivan , Výprachtický Drahomír
Published: October 2010

Summary: Optical, photophysical, electrochemical and photoelectrical properties of novel soluble low‐bandgap fluorene – thienothiadiazole based copolymers (CHTF and CDTF) and luminescent fluorene – carbazole copolymers, (CFCzE and CFCZA) were studied. Fluorene – thienothiadiazole copolymers exhibit in thin films long‐wavelength absorption with maxima at 750 – 785 nm and possess low bandgap, high electron affinity and exhibit reversible electrochromic behaviour. Therefore they are of interest for electrochromic and photovoltaic applications. Spectroelectrochemical study was performed and optical switching was demonstrated. Photovoltaic devices with bulk heterojunction made of blends of copolymers and fullerene derivative [60]PCBM were prepared. The power conversion efficiency was 2–3%. On the other hand, the fluorene‐carbazole copolymers exhibit blue photoluminescence with high quantum efficiency in solution and also in thin films. Light‐emitting devices with intensive broad bluish‐green‐white emission were fabricated.
Functionalization Conditions of PLGA‐PEG‐PLGA Copolymer with Itaconic Anhydride
Authors: Michlovská Lenka , Vojtová Lucy , Mravcová Ludmila , Hermanová Soňa , Kučerík Jiří , Jančář Josef
Published: October 2010

Summary: Biodegradable thermosensitive triblock copolymers based on poly(ethylene glycol) and poly(lactic‐co‐glycolic acid) (PLGA‐PEG‐PLGA) prepared via ring opening polymerization were modified by itaconic anhydride (ITA), which gives copolymer both reactive double bonds and functional carboxylic acid groups essential for the reaction with biological active material. Functionalization conditions comprising ITA purification, temperature, time and presence of solvent were optimized with the respect to amount of end‐capped ITA. Maximum of 76.6 mol. % of bonded ITA were reached via “one pot” reaction in a bulk at 110 °C after 1.5 h. ITA functionalization thermally stabilized the original copolymer by increasing the initial degradation temperature Td from 284 °C to 294 °C and changing the negative glass transition temperature (Tg = ‐1.8 °C) to positive one up to 2.4 °C. The novel functionalized macromonomer can be cross‐linked either chemically or physically in order to produce new functionalized hydrogel network applicable as biomedical material in tissue engineering.
Photopolymer for Optical Holography and Holographic Interferometry
Authors: Květoň M. , Lédl V. , Havránek A. , Fiala P.
Published: October 2010

Summary: In our laboratory, we have continued in experimental study of acrylamide‐based photopolymer recording material. Our exposition and detection setup was used for real‐time measurements of a diffraction grating formation process. Based on the results of our measurements, the chemical composition of the material was modified to increase sensitivity, value of refractive index modulation and stability of the formed structure. Recently, the material has been successfully applied to holographic interferometry.
Synthesis and Characterization of Polypyrrole Nanoparticles and Their Nanocomposites with Poly(propylene)
Authors: Sevil Baytekin , Zuhal Küçükyavuz
Published: October 2010

Summary: Conducting polypyrrole (PPy) nanoparticles were synthesized via microemulsion polymerization. PP/PPy nanocomposites were prepared by melt‐mixing of polypyrrole with polypropylene (PP) and processed with injection molding. Tensile tests have revealed that increasing amount of PPy increased the strength and the stiffness of the nanocomposite while limiting the elongation of PP. Thermal gravimetric analysis has showed that incorporation of PPy nanoparticles has improved the thermal stability of the nanocomposites. Increasing amount of PPy nanoparticles increases the conductivity of nonconductive PP up to 2,4.10−4 Scm−1. The same techniques were used to characterize nanocomposites containing 2% w dispersant. Composites prepared with dispersant have involved smaller dimension PPy nanoparticles and exhibited improvement in some mechanical and thermal properties.