bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The application of human capital theory in vocational rehabilitation for individuals with mental illness
Authors: Gao Ni , Gill Kenneth J. , Schmidt Lisa T. , Pratt Carlos W.
Published: December 2019

Human Capital Theory posits that investment in education and job training increase employability among the general labor force. This study examined the applicability of Human Capital Theory to an explanation of employment outcomes of individuals with psychiatric illness. The employment rates of participants with mental illness and participants with equivalent human capital but not disability were compared. The study also explored whether human capital variables predicted employability. The study found that participants with mental illness achieved similar re-employment rates within six-months of becoming unemployed when compared to their counterparts with no reported disability. Additionally, later onset of mental illness predicted higher employment rates. Severity of psychiatric symptoms was not predictive of employment rates. These findings suggest that human capital variables are correlated with employment outcomes among persons with mental illness. They also suggest that assisting mental health consumers in the pursuit of education and job training may improve their employability which can lead to financial independence and community integration. The findings also support the development and implementation of Supported Education to assist consumers to succeed in education and job training.
Vocational interventions and supports following job placement for persons with traumatic brain injury
Authors: Hart Tessa , Dijkers Marcel , Whyte John , Braden Cynthia , Trott Charlotte T. , Fraser Robert
Published: December 2019

Previous research on vocational rehabilitation after traumatic brain injury (TBI) has suggested that coaching and other services provided following job placement are particularly important for successful work re-entry in this population. Methods of defining and measuring these services are needed to estimate more precisely their effects on vocational outcomes. In this study we developed a measure of the type, amount, and location of post-placement interventions that could be completed by treaters in “real time”. Treatment was measured prospectively for 6 months after job placement for 65 people with moderate to severe TBI treated at 5 TBI Model System centers. Centers were found to differ substantially in the amount and location of treatment provided following job placement; centers providing more intensive treatment and treatment at the workplace also served more severely impaired clients at a longer interval after injury. Within centers, participants’ cognitive speed and emotional distress predicted certain aspects of amount and type of treatment provided. Three-fourths of the sample were still working at the placement job after 6 months. Due to the confounding between case mix and treatment variables, unique effects of treatments on outcomes could not be determined.
Use of psychological tests within vocational rehabilitation
Authors: Donoso Oscar A. , Hernandez Brigida , Horin Elizabeth V.
Published: December 2019

This study examined the testing practices of 150 professionals who conduct psychological assessments for the vocational rehabilitation (VR) system. A convenience sample, participants represented five large and culturally diverse states (i.e. California, Florida, Illinois, New York, and Texas). They responded to a semi-structured, online survey that was created by the authors to examine testing practices. Results indicated that (a) the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale and Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory ranked highly in terms of use; (b) the overall test ranking, for the most part, did not vary based on participants’ demographic and professional characteristics; (c) neuropsychological instruments were commonly endorsed; and (d) projectives were not commonly used. Although findings corroborate prior research with regards to continued use of “popular” instruments, they also suggest increased use of psychometrically sound tests.
Using a dynamic systems approach to investigating postsecondary education and employment outcomes for transitioning students with disabilities
Authors: Williamson Robert L. , Robertson Janna S. , Casey Laura B.
Published: December 2019

Successful postsecondary employment and furthering one’s education are two areas important to students with disabilities as they exit the public education system. These outcomes represent the results of numerous, interacting variables in each student’s life. For this reason, the study of these interacting variables merit using a more dynamic, systems-based perspective. This perspective allows for the examination of possible correlating characteristics as a system of interdependent variables. This study sought to understand how certain measured, interrelated characteristics of transition may be correlated to successful employment and/or postsecondary education outcomes for students with disabilities using this systems approach. The participants were high school graduates from a large mid-south school district who were receiving special education services. Results indicated that characteristics related to personal care and independent living, both correlated with successful participation in postsecondary education. No models in this study related to successful postsecondary employment. Differences between outcomes when variables are studied as dynamic entities versus when they are studied in isolation gives additional insight into the transition process and how best to prepare students for postsecondary success.
Effect of job skills training on employment and job seeking behaviors in an American Indian substance abuse treatment sample
Authors: Foley K. , Pallas D. , Forcehimes A.A. , Houck J.M. , Bogenschutz M.P. , Keyser-Marcus L. , Svikis D.
Published: December 2019

Employment difficulties are common among American Indian individuals in substance abuse treatment. To address this problem, the Southwest Node of NIDA’s Clinical Trials Network conducted a single-site adaptation of its national Job Seekers Workshop study in an American Indian treatment program, Na’Nizhoozhi Center (NCI). 102 (80% men, 100% American Indian) participants who were in residential treatment and currently unemployed were randomized to (1) a three session, manualized program (Job seekers workshop: JSW) or (2) a 40-minute video on how to interview for a job (Job Interviewing Video: JIV). Outcomes were assessed at 3-month follow up: 1) number of days to a new taxed job or enrollment in a job-training program, and 2) total hours working or enrolled in a job-training program. No significant differences were found between the two groups for time to a new taxed job or enrollment in a job-training program. There were no significant differences between groups in substance use frequency at 3-month follow-up. These results do not support the use of the costly and time-consuming JSW intervention in this population and setting. Despite of the lack of a demonstrable treatment effect, this study established the feasibility of including a rural American Indian site in a rigorous CTN trial through a community-based participatory research approach.
Employment funding for intellectual/developmental disability systems
Authors: Hall Allison Cohen , Freeze Suzzanne , Butterworth John , Hoff David
Published: December 2019

Funding is a central tool for improving the quality and range of employment service options. While outcome-based funding models are more common in the Vocational Rehabilitation system, there is a need for funding structures in intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) service systems that signal a clear preference for high-quality, cost-effective integrated employment outcomes. In an environment of increasing fiscal demands and limitations, and expansion of self-directed services and individualized budgeting, state IDD systems must engage in rate-setting and funding discussions that are rooted in their priorities and long-term goals. This paper explores rate-setting methodologies, rate structures, and incentives for integrated employment, and the relationship between funding, policies, and priorities. A detailed analysis within five states yields lessons for other state IDD systems as they contend with evolving funding structures that respond to fiscal pressures and demands. Implications include the need for funding to be seamless, goal-focused, and connected to and consistent with larger systems strategies.
Factors associated with employment among veterans with spinal cord injury
Authors: Ottomanelli Lisa , Sippel Jennifer L. , Cipher Daisha J. , Goetz Lance L.
Published: December 2019

The purpose of the present study was to investigate predictors of competitive employment after a spinal cord injury (SCI) among veterans. This study retrospectively examined return to work after SCI, types of jobs held, and variables that were associated with return to work. The present sample included 238 veterans receiving healthcare at one of several Veteran Affairs Medical Centers. Data were obtained through subject interviews and chart extraction. Subjects were also administered the Veterans RAND 36-Item Health Survey (VR-36), Quick Inventory for Depressive Symptomatology – Self Report (QIDS-SR), and Craig Handicap Assessment Reporting Technique (CHART). Results revealed that 34.5% of our study sample was employed at some point after SCI. Employed subjects had significantly higher scores on two of the CHART subscales (Mobility and Occupation) than unemployed subjects, but there were no significant differences among subjects on the QIDS or the VR-36. Receipt of social security benefits was a significant disincentive for employment, but receipt of Veterans disability benefits was not. Education, gender, ethnicity, level and severity of injury were not significant predictors of employment status after SCI, after controlling for demographic variables. Clinical implications of these findings may be that vocational rehabilitation interventions that focus on rapid re-entry to the workforce using existing skill sets may maximize post-SCI employment.
Consumer perspectives on reasons for unsuccessful VR case closure: An exploratory study
Authors: Rogers Nikki L. , Embree Jared A. , Masoudi Navid , Huber Mary , Ford Jo Ann , Moore Dennis
Published: December 2019

Unsuccessful case closure contributes not only to great financial loss for the federal/state vocational rehabilitation (VR) system but also to consumer disappointment. There is a lack of research on factors related to unsuccessful closure. In this mixed design study, VR consumers from eight states were randomly selected following the Longitudinal Study of the Vocational Rehabilitation Services (LSVRS) weighting schemes. Consumers (n = 111) and matched counselors (n = 54) were asked to identify factors they thought contributed to the unsuccessful closure. Consumer most commonly reported reasons were disability severity (48%), no jobs were available (37%), lack of additional services (33%), and missed appointments (30%). Counselors cited missed appointments (61%), followed by consumers' not being ready for work and disability severity (both 52%), and service refusal (41%). Contrary to our hypotheses, transportation, potential benefit loss, and substance use disorders were not among the most frequent factors cited in unsuccessful closure by either consumers or counselors. The results of this study can assist administrators and vocational counselors in addressing the needs of their consumers. The single most important factors identified by matched consumers and counselors (n = 54 each) were not significantly different and both parties identified disability severity as the most common primary factor in unsuccessful case closure.
Predicting vocational rehabilitation outcomes of young adults with specific learning disabilities: Transitioning from school to work
Authors: Gonzalez Rene , Rosenthal David A. , Kim Jeong Han
Published: December 2019

Individuals with specific learning disabilities are a heterogeneous group with varied academic challenges and cognitive processing challenges. The manifestations of specific learning disabilities interfere with the acquisition of academic skills and impede vocational success. This study analyzed the Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA) case service report (RSA-911) data for fiscal year (FY) 2007 to examine effects of demographic characteristics and employment outcomes of persons with specific learning disabilities. The RSA-911 FY 2007 dataset was examined via the chi-squared automatic interaction detector (CHAID) analysis. The CHAID analysis was utilized to extract predictive information for rehabilitation outcomes for individuals with specific learning disabilities. The exhaustive CHAID analysis allowed the segmentation of the large group of people into homogeneous subgroups (i.e., end groups). Results illuminate those demographic characteristics most salient to successful rehabilitation outcomes for consumers with specific learning disabilities. The chi-squared automatic interaction detector (CHAID) analysis indicated that public support significantly enhanced competitive employment outcomes.
Teaching post 9/11 student-veterans with symptoms of PTSD: The influence of faculty perceptions and self-efficacy
Authors: Barnard-Brak Lucy , Bagby Janet Hall , Jones Natalie , Sulak Tracey
Published: December 2019

With the recent authorization of the GI bill and the continued military presence in Iraq and Afghanistan, institutions of higher education in the United States are expected to experience an influx of returning student-veterans, many who may have symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The purpose of the current study was to examine faculty perceptions of returning student-veterans who may have symptoms of PTSD. We surveyed 596 faculty members as to their views of serving in the military, the United States' involvement in the Iraq/Afghanistan wars and perceptions of their ability or self-efficacy to address the special needs of combat veterans in the classroom. Results indicate that faculty perceptions about current military conflicts and the military itself may be associated with their self-efficacy to teach and work with returning student-veterans in the classroom.
Special education teachers serving students with autism: A descriptive study of the characteristics and self-reported knowledge and practices employed
Authors: Hendricks Dawn
Published: December 2019

Autism now affects a significant number of students in schools. The purpose of this study was to survey special education teachers who serve students with autism to 1) determine teacher, environmental, and student related characteristics; 2) identify the self-reported knowledge of effective teaching practices; and 3) identify the self-reported implementation of effective teaching practices. The study was conducted with special education teachers employed in Virginia using a web-based survey titled the Needs Assessment of Special Educators who Serve Students with Autism. Respondents included 498 special education teachers with a wide array of qualifications and experience including licensure status, years of teaching and area of endorsement. Results provide a description of teacher characteristics that directly impact instructional delivery as well as information regarding self-rated knowledge and implementation of efficacious strategies. Information from this study can be used to improve service delivery to students with autism by informing policy and directing and enhancing teacher professional development initiatives at the preservice and inservice levels.
Assessing the relationship between AgrAbility projects and state Vocational Rehabilitation Services
Authors: Mathew Samuel N. , Field William E. , Etheridge Steven
Published: December 2019

As a federal-state partnership to rehabilitate individuals with mental and physical disabilities, Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) Services operate under state oversight in all states of the USA. State and Regional AgrAbility Projects (SRAP) and the lead agency National AgrAbility Project (NAP) are funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to assist in the rehabilitation of farmers, ranchers, and agricultural workers with disabilities across the country and have regular interaction with VR regarding services provided to customers. AgrAbility projects currently operate in 24 states. This study was intended to assess the benefits and challenges of this association from the perspective of the SRAP personnel and was conducted through telephone interviews with SRAP service providers based on a prepared questionnaire. The questions focused on the current status as well as expectations regarding future relationships as seen by AgrAbility staff. The results from the study revealed that interaction in each state is different but all have demonstrated benefits for clientele. The different perspectives and unique experiences of study participants can be used to enhance future relationships between the agencies and provide better service for customers.
Employment considerations for individuals with psychiatric disabilities and criminal histories: Consumer perspectives
Authors: Tschopp Molly K. , Perkins David V. , Wood Heather , Leczycki Aneta , Oyer Laura
Published: December 2019

The purpose of this qualitative project was to explore employment-related considerations through the perspectives of supported employment consumers with both psychiatric disabilities and criminal offense histories. Fourteen individuals participated in semi-structured interviews. Resulting themes included the importance of nonvocational services; relationship between mental illness and criminal activity; impact of mental illness and offense history on employment; helpful elements of supported employment; and recovery and advice to others. These findings help to explain how supported employment can mitigate social underachievement and social decline in an especially high need population.
Facilitators and barriers to integrated employment: Results of focus group analysis
Authors: Rosenthal David A. , Hiatt Emma K. , Anderson Catherine A. , Brooks Jason , Hartman Ellie C. , Wilson Matthew T. , Fujikawa Mayu
Published: December 2019

The current study examined narrative data from a series of semi-structured focus groups in order to identify and examine the proficiencies and deficiencies in practice competencies specific to job functions in the changing practice environment of vocational rehabilitation (VR). Focus groups were conducted with members of organizations, individual service providers, as well as consumers and their families, and data were gathered to determine the potential barriers to employment and service needs of individuals with the most significant disabilities living in Wisconsin. Three major domains identified by the comprehensive needs assessment are employment knowledge, systems interactions and navigation, and consumer needs. Recommendations are aimed at increasing opportunities for community-based employment for persons with disabilities, increasing communication between consumers and service providers, and most importantly, eliminating financial disincentives that promote facility based employment.
The impact of agency organisation and natural support on supported employment outcomes
Authors: Beyer Stephen
Published: December 2019

Data was collected on nine supported employment agencies over one financial year on staffing ratio, staff qualifications, job finding approach, management structure, supervision arrangement, referral and funding sources, and typicalness of jobs and job placement approaches, replicating elements of Mank et al. (1997). Data was also collected on individual client wage and hours worked outcomes. An ANOVA revealed strong differences among agencies in hours worked, wages in the extent to which they acquired Job Acquisition, Compensation packages, Work Roles and Orientation and induction and programmes that were typical for the company they were placing into. An ANOVA on hours worked, wages earned and typicalness in these key processes revealed a significant independent effects of management model and job finding approach. Stepwise regression analysis was used to quantify the impact on wage and hours worked outcomes of management model. Job coach approach, staff ratio and typicalness in these four key areas. Significant Beta coefficients were found between monthly wage and hours worked and typicalness of Compensation, Work Roles and Orientation scores. Management model impacted only on monthly wages.
Negotiating reasonable workplace accommodations: Perspectives of employers, employees with disabilities, and rehabilitation service providers
Authors: Gold Paul B. , Oire Spalatin N. , Fabian Ellen S. , Wewiorski Nancy J.
Published: December 2019

Providing reasonable workplace accommodations for employees with disabilities has been associated with enhanced job tenure, performance, and satisfaction. However, employers have struggled to effectively meet employee accommodation requests, and few studies have specifically examined how employees and employers negotiate requests. In this exploratory focus group study, we asked three key stakeholder groups – employers, employees with disabilities, and vocational rehabilitation service providers – “What helps and hinders requesting, negotiating, implementing, and evaluating workplace accommodations for employees with disabilities?” From our grounded theory analysis, we found that, although employers' and employees' perceptions about negotiating accommodations converged in several ways (e.g., employees presenting credible requests to employers to improve job performance), they differed sharply on their expectations of each other (e.g., costs of accommodations versus moral obligations to provide them). Such divergence requires that employers and employees with disabilities should become more aware of each other's perspectives, and more educated about how accommodation requests ought to be managed to improve job retention, reduce turnover costs, and decrease the likelihood of litigation. Based on findings of our small study, we offer a modest recommendation: educational interventions should be specifically tailored to each stakeholder group's roles according to major thematic areas of credibility, trust, and obligations.
Behind closed doors: Assessing individuals from diverse backgrounds
Authors: Horin Elizabeth V. , Hernandez Brigida , Donoso Oscar A.
Published: December 2019

This study surveyed 150 professionals on testing considerations made for clients' race/ethnicity and disability when (a) selecting tests, (b) administering tests, and (c) interpreting and writing results. Participants, who tested for the vocational rehabilitation system, completed a semi-structured survey online. Results indicated that they were more likely to consider clients' disability when selecting tests than race/ethnicity. During test administration, the majority reported not making adaptations or modifications (thus adhering to standardized instructions). However, participants were likely to factor clients' race/ethnicity and disability when interpreting results and writing reports. Content coding of open-ended responses revealed concerns when testing individuals who did not speak English fluently. An important area of research considering demographic shifts occurring in the United States, findings suggest the need to develop evidence-based practices when assessing culturally diverse populations.
Influence of social welfare and the pensions system in work and access to employment by people with disabilities
Authors: de Urríes F.B. Jordán , Verdugo M.A. , Benito M.C.
Published: December 2019

Background: The population of people with disabilities (PWD) in Spain, according to available data reveals high rates of unemployment (20.34%) and, more alarmingly, a low rate of paid work within this collective at 35.5%. One of the possible causes of this low level of work may be related to the receipt of allowances that would seem to have an inhibiting effect on employment. Specific aims: The aim of this project was to investigate the effects of receiving an allowance on work and employment in PWD. We also studied compatibility between non-contributory allowances and work. Method: This involved working with a sample of 2,259 PWD nationwide, these mainly being men (57.61%). The methodology used was both quantitative and qualitative. Findings: The study results showed that people who receive an allowance, whether contributory or non-contributory, reveal unemployment rates higher than in the remainder of PWD. Similarly, recipients of allowances are mainly inactive while PWD not in receipt of an allowance are mainly active. Discussion: While the pension system is necessary, this must be very flexible in compatibility with the job and be accompanied by incentive measures for access.
SiO2 template-derived polyurethane and alumina nanoparticle-polyurethane lithium ion separator membranes
Authors: Yang Jianzhong , Barbarich Thomas J. , Barron Andrew R.
Published: December 2019

Alumina nanoparticle (alumoxane) doped polyurethane films were prepared by the template directed synthesis method with highly controlled physical dimensions and tested as a Li-ion battery separator. Monodispersed silica spheres are used as a template around which polyurethane monomer is infiltrated and cross-linked by UV light (320 nm). The silica is subsequently removed by etching to leave an alumina NP doped polyurethane membrane. The choice of substitutent on the alumina nanoparticle [methoxy(ethoxyethoxy)acteic acid (MEEA), acetic acid, and lysine] was chosen to alter the surface properties of the polyurethane. The MEEA-alumoxane doped membranes were characterized by SEM, and the conductivity of the electrolyte in the separators was measured using AC impedance spectroscopy. The MacMullin number for all of the template directed polyurethane separators was greater than that of the commercial porous membrane suggesting that despite a high pore volume the conductivity is limited by the size of the interconnects.
Synthesis, structure, thermal behavior and energetic properties of a new 2D polymeric Ba(II) compound with tetrazole-1-acetic acid
Authors: Huang Hui-Sheng , Li Zhi-Min , Zhang Guo-Tao , Zhang Tong-Lai , Zhang Sheng-Tao , Yang Li , Zhang Jian-Guo , Zhou Zun-Ning
Published: December 2019

A new energetic Ba(II) coordination polymer [Ba(tza)2]n (where tza = tetrazole-1-acetic acid anion) was synthesized and characterized by X-ray single crystal diffraction, elemental analysis and IR spectroscopy. In the molecule, the central Ba(II) cation was coordinated by eight carboxylic O atoms from six different tza ions. Quadridentate tza anion bridged three various Ba(II) atoms and formed a 2D supramolecular network. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and thermogravimetric - differential thermogravimetric (TG - DTG) analyses were applied to assess the thermal decomposition behavior. The kinetic parameters were obtained by non-isothermal reaction kinetics, and the Arrhenius equation can be expressed as lnk = 22.47 – 291 × 103/RT. Critical temperature of thermal explosion, thermodynamic parameters, energy of combustion, enthalpy of formation and sensitivities of [Ba(tza)2]n were measured or calculated to argue that as a potential energetic material.
Synthesis, spectroscopic characterization and antitumor activity of new metal complexes of isonicotinoylhydrazide oxime
Authors: El-Tabl Abdou S. , Abd El-Waheed Moshira M. , Shakdofa Mohamad M.E. , Abou El-Fadl Nahla A.
Published: December 2019

A new series of manganese(II), cobalt(II), nickel(II), copper(II), zinc(II) cadmium(II) and mercury(II) complexes of N′-(3-(hydroxyimino)-4-oxopentan-2-ylidene) isonicotinoylhydrazide (H2L) have been prepared and characterized by elemental and thermal (DTA and TGA) analyses, IR, UV-VIS, 1H-NMR, ESR, mass spectroscopy, magnetic susceptibility, and conductivity. Molar conductance in DMF solution indicated that the complexes are nonelectrolytes. IR spectral data showed that the ligand is either neutral bidentate, (4), neutral tridentate, (3) and (12) or monobasic tridentate (2), (5)-(11). The ESR spectra of solid copper(II) complexes (2), (4), (11) and (12) showed g‖ > g⊥ > ge, indicating a distorted octahedral structure and the presence of the unpaired electron in a d(x2-y2) orbital. However, copper(II), manganese(II) and cobalt(II) complexes (3), (6) and (8), respectively, had isotropic spectra. Complexes (2), (3), (4), (5), (7), (11) and (12) demonstrated potential antiproliferative activity against the growth of human breast cancer tumor cell line MCF-7.
Synthesis and Biocide Activity of Polymers Based on Poly(hydroxy styrene) and Poly(hydroxy styrene-co-2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate)
Authors: Kenawy El-Refaie , El-Shanshoury Abd El-Raheem R. , Omar Shaker Nihal , El-Sadek Baheya Mohamed , Khattab Abeer H.B. , Elzatahry Ahmed
Published: December 2019

In the present work new biocidal polymers were synthesized based on linear poly(hydroxy styrene) and poly(hydroxy styrene co-2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate). The polymer and the copolymer were modified by chloroacetylation with chloroacetyl chloride and were further modified by quaternization with triethylamine, triphenylphosphine, and tributylphosphine. The modified polymers, and copolymers were characterized by elemental analyses, IR, and 1H-NMR. The biocidal activities of the compounds were evaluated against E. coli, Staph. aureus, P. aeruginosa, Serratia sp, Kelbsiella sp. and C. albicans. The modified polymers and copolymers had biocidal activity. The toxicity analysis of the most active polymers or co-polymers to Artemia salina was also determined. It differed according to the polymer or co-polymer and its concentration.
Phytochemical analysis of biologically active constituents of medicinal plants
Authors: Morsy Nagy
Published: December 2019

Plants are a source of many drugs such as antispasmodics, emetics, antimicrobials, antipyretics, antidiarrheals, antioxidants, and antitumor agents. A large number of the plants are claimed to possess valuable properties in traditional medicine and are also used extensively by tribal people worldwide. Research has emphasized the evaluation and characterization of various plants and plant constituents against a number of diseases. Detection, estimation and extraction of the bioactive plant constituents have always been a challenging task. This review will provide an overview of the simple and reliable methods of qualitative and quantitative determination of the most common classes of medicinal compounds. It gives a valuable guide to biologically active constituents and methods to investigate the importance of a plant as a source of biologically active compounds.
A new catalytic-spectrophotometry method for sensitive determination of Acid Red 18 in water samples using silver nanoparticles
Authors: Farmany Abbas , Sahraei Reza , Mortazavi Seyede Shima , Hashemi Ehsan
Published: December 2019

A simple and sensitive kinetic spectrophotometric method for the determination of nanomolar level of Acid Red 18, based on the catalytic effect of silver nanoparticles on the oxidation of Acid Red 18 by potassium periodate is described. The reaction rate was monitored spectrophotometrically by measuring the decrease in absorbance of Acid Red 18 at 505 nm. The detection limit of the method was 0.18 ng/mL and the linear range was between 0.5–485 ng/mL. The effects of acidity, concentration of reactants, reaction time, and external ions were also discussed. The optimum reaction conditions were fixed and some kinetic parameters determined. The relative standard deviation for the determination of Acid Red 18 at the concentration of 100 ng/mL was calculated to be 0.998 % (n = 10). The method has been successfully applied to the determination of Acid Red 18 in city, tap, and river water samples.
Coordination behaviour of N′1,N′4-bis((1,5-dimethyl-3-oxo-2-phenyl-2,3-dihydro-1H-pyrazol-4-yl)methylene) succinohydrazide toward transition metal ions and their antimicrobial activities
Authors: EL Saied Fathy A. , Shakdofa Mohamad M.E. , El Tabl Abdou S. , Abd Elzaher Mokhles M.
Published: December 2019

Complexes of Cu(II), Ni(II), Co(II), Mn(II), Zn(II) and Fe(III) with N′1,N′4-bis((1,5-dimethyl-3-oxo-2-phenyl-2,3-dihydro-1H-pyrazol-4-yl)methylene) succinohydrazide are reported and characterized using various analytical and spectroscopic techniques like 1H NMR-, mass-, IR-, ESR-, UV-Vis. spectra, magnetic moment and molar conductivity measurements as well as elemental and thermal analyses. The ligand behaves as a dibasic hexadentate N2O4 bonded covalency via the enolic carbonyl oxygen of hydrazide moiety and coordeinated via carbonyl oxygen of antipyrine moiety and azomethine nitrogen atoms. Based on magnetic and electronic spectra data a distorted octahedral geometry around the metal ions has been proposed. The ESR spectrum of copper(II) complexes (3) showed axial symmetry with $\text{g} \parallel \ge \text{g}\bot \ge {\rm g_e}$ , indicating a distorted octahedral structure and presence of the unpaired electron in d(x2-y2) orbital. The antimicrobial activities results of the metal complexes 2, 3, 4, 5, 8, 11, 13 and 16 show that, all these complexes exhibit moderate to mild inhibitory effects aganist Bacillus subtilis, Escherichia Coli and Aspergillus niger while the parent ligand is inactive. This enhancement may be attrubied to their structures which possess an additional C = N bond. Moreover, coordination reduces the polarity of the metal ion mainly because of the partial sharing of its positive charge with the donor atom within the chelate ring system, which formed during the coordination. This process, in turn, increases the lipophilic nature of the central metal atom, which favors its permeation more efficiently through the lipid layer of the microorganism thus destroying them more aggressively.
Preparation of 2,4,6-trisphosphinyl-1,3,5-triazine (1,3,5-triazinetriphosphonic acid)
Authors: Ioannou Panayiotis V.
Published: December 2019

The reaction of excess tris(trimethylsilyl) phosphite with cyanuric chloride produced the ester 2,4,6-trisdi(trimethylsilyloxyphosphinyl)-1,3,5-triazine. After partial purification the ester was methanolysed to the free acid 2,4,6-trisphosphinyl-1,3,5-triazine in good to excellent yields. Some properties of the acid are described.
Hydrothermal preparation and characterization of a rare example of sodium tetracarboxylate polymer with bridging water
Authors: Tabatabaee Masoumeh , Ahmadi Mahdi , Parvez Masood
Published: December 2019

A 3D coordination polymer, Na2(μ8-btaH2)(μ2-H2O)2n (1) (btaH4 = benzene-1,2,4,5-tetracarboxylic acid) was hydrothermally synthesized and characterized by elemental analysis and X­ray diffraction studies. Compound 1 crystallizes in the triclinic P–1 space group. The Na+ ions are linked together with μ8-btaH22− and μ2-H2O bridging ligands. The btaH22− units are bound to eight Na+ ions. The Na atoms are seven-coordinate with three oxygen atoms of three individual btaH22− ions, two oxygen atoms form one bidentate btaH22− ligand, and two oxygen atoms from bridging water molecules. An interesting intramolecular hydrogen bond is present between protonated and deprotonated carboxylate groups (O4–H···O2). Its length is 2.3991(17) Å with 172(2)° angle and the proton is located near the center of the bond (O4–H 1.11(3) Å and H···O 1.29(3) Å).
Metal complexes of hydrazones and their biological, analytical and catalytic applications: A review
Authors: Shakdofa Mohamad M.E. , Shtaiwi Majed H. , Morsy Nagy , Abdel-rassel Tayseer M.A.
Published: December 2019

This is the first comprehensive review of the biological activity of hydrazone-transition metal complexes. Hydrazone complexes gained much attention because of their antifugial, antibacterial anticonvulsant, and analgesic, antiinflammatory, antimalarial, antimicrobial, antituberculosis, anticancer, and antiviral activities. Additionally, some of the hydrazone complexes were used in treatment of iron overload diseases. One application, which reflects the importance of hydrazone complexes, is their use in detection and determination of metals and some organic constituents in pharmaceutical formulations. This review will provide an overview of the biological, analytical and catalytic applications of this category of complexes.
Synthesis and characterization of new types of aluminum and gallium complexes stabilized by bifunctional ligands
Authors: Vengoechea-Gómez Fabio A. , Cortes-Llamas Sara A. , Muñoz-Hernández Miguel-Ángel
Published: December 2019

Novel mononuclear metal complexes with the general formula {[(NC4H3)2CH2–CNNC6H2(R2)]MMe2} (M=Ga, R=H (1); M=Al, R=Me (2)) and {[(OC4H2CH3)2CH2–CNNC6H4]MMe3} (M=Ga (3); M=Al (4)) results when benzimidazole derivatives ligands are mixed with trimethylaluminum and trimethylgallium. The X-ray crystal structures of 1 and 4 are described. The structural data revealed that 1 is a mononuclear gallium compound with the pendant pyrrol moiety coordinated to the metal center, while 4 is a mononuclear aluminum complex that does not show any kind of interaction between the pendant furan moiety and the aluminum center.
Removal of Acid Red 151 from water by adsorption onto nano-composite MnFe2O4/kaolin
Authors: Hashemian Saeedeh
Published: December 2019

The adsorption of Acid Red 151 (AR151) from water was determined for kaolin, MnFe2O4 and MnFe2O4/kaolin magnetic nano-composite. MnFe2O4 and MnFe2O4/kaolin were prepared using a simple chemical co-precipitation procedure. The MnFe2O4/kaolin composite was prepared with Mn : Fe : kaolin mass ratios of 1 : 1 : 10, 1 : 1.5 : 10 and 1 : 2 : 10. The adsorption capacity increased in 1 : 2 : 10 Mn : Fe : kaolin. Powder XRD and SEM were used to characterize the sorbents. The spinel magnetic phase is present in the MnFe2O4. The AR151 adsorption is strongly dependent on pH and increases with increasing acidity with a maximum at pH 2. The adsorption capacity of the composite is greater than that of natural kaolin and MnFe2O4. The adsorption was not affected by the presence of chloride, but was significantly affected by sulfate. The adsorption kinetics of AR151 on kaolin and ferrite powder are similar, but the adsorption of AR151 on the MnFe2O4/kaolin composite is much more rapid and occurs within 2–5 min of contact. The adsorption process follows pseudo-second order kinetics. The solid magnetic composite could be conveniently recovered after adsorption.
Mono- and heterodinuclear indium compounds of multidentate schiff bases; syntheses, characterization and their antibacterial activity
Authors: Sharma Priyanka , Sharma Jyoti , Singh Yashpal
Published: December 2019

Some new indium compounds of bifunctional tridentate Schiff bases have been synthesized by the reactions of In(OPri)3 with corresponding ligands in 1 : 2 molar ratio in refluxing benzene. Equimolar reactions of these mononuclear indium compounds with B(OPri)3 yield heterodinuclear compounds. These newly synthesized compounds have been characterized by elemental analyses and molecular weight measurements. Their plausible structures have been proposed on the basis of IR and NMR (1H, 13C, 11B) and FAB-Mass spectral studies. Antibacterial activities of Schiff base ligands and their corresponding mononuclear compounds have been screened against gram positive E. coli and gram negative Pseudomonas with promising results.
Novel organophosphorus compounds; synthesis, spectroscopy and X-ray crystallography
Authors: Shariatinia Zahra , Sohrabi Marzieh , Yousefi Mohammad , Koval Tomas , Dusek Michal
Published: December 2019

New organophosphorus compounds with formula C6H5C(O)NHP(O)(2,4-OCH3-C6H3-NH)2 (1), CCl3C(O)NHP(O)(Cl)[N(C2H5)2] (2) and CF3C(O)NHP(O)(C6H5)2 (3) were synthesized and characterized by 1H, 13C, 31P NMR, IR spectroscopy and elemental analysis. The 31P{1H} NMR spectra indicate the most up field P atom in 2 exhibiting the most electron donation of the Cl atom which is due to its resonance effect. Among compounds 1–3, the ν(P=O) of 2 is the weakest while its ν(C=O) is the strongest one. This indicates that between two resonance forms (OH)C=N-P(O) (I) and O=CN-P(OH) (II), the interaction II is more preferred in 2. The structure of compound 4, P(O)(NC4H8N-C6H5)3, was determined by X-ray crystallography. In this molecule, a one dimensional polymeric chain is produced in the crystalline lattice by intermolecular weak C-H...O hydrogen bonds.
Synthesis, characterization and biological activity of a new long-chain imine ligand and some transition metal complexes in solvent-free conditions
Authors: Elmali Fikriye Tuncel , Sütay Berkay , Ozbek Berna , Demirhan Nebahat
Published: December 2019

A new N-alkyl long-chain alkyl imine ligand (N-dodecyl-N1-dacanimine) has been synthesized by the reaction of dodecylamine (laurylamine) with decanal in molar 1 : 1 ratio and its Cu(I), Cu(II), Ni(II) and Co(II) complexes have been prepared under solvent-free conditions. The newly synthesized compounds have been verified by FTIR, UV-vis. and mass spectra. All of the compounds were tested for antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 6538, meticillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) ATCC 33591, Staphylococcus epidermidis ATCC 12228, Escherichia coli ATCC 8739, Klebsiella pneumoniae ATCC 4352, Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 1539, Proteus mirabilis ATCC 14153 and the yeast, Candida albicans ATCC 10231. Among the compounds, the ligand was found the most active compound against all strains. The Cu(II)complex exhibited very strong antibacterial activity against bacteria except for Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 1539, Proteus mirabilis ATCC 14153. Also, all compounds showed very strong antifungal effects against C. albicans ATCC 10231.
Indium(III) hetero-ligand complexes containing 1,10-phenanthroline, chloride, acetonitrile and dimethyl sulfoxide: Crystal structure determination, and luminescent properties
Authors: Abedi Anita , Amani Vahid , Safari Nasser
Published: December 2019

[In(Me2phen)Cl3(DMSO)]·DMSO complex (1) (Me2phen is 5,6-dimethyl-1,10-phenanthroline and DMSO is dimethyl sulfoxide) and [In(Ph2phen)Cl3(CH3CN)] complex (2) (Ph2phen is 4,7-diphenyl-1,10-phenanthroline) were prepared from the reaction of 5,6-dimethyl-1,10-phenanthroline and 4,7-diphenyl-1,10-phenanthroline with InCl3·4H2O in methanol, respectively. Both complexes were characterized by IR, UV-Vis, NMR and luminescence spectroscopy and their structures were studied by the single-crystal diffraction method. In the crystal structure of complex 1, there are intra- and intermolecular C-H${\cdots}$Cl and C-H${\cdots}$O hydrogen bonds and π−π contacts. In complex 2, there are intermolecular C-H${\ldots}$Cl hydrogen bonds. The luminescence emission spectra of Me2phen and 1, and Ph2phen and 2, were obtained in DMSO and CH3CN at room temperature, respectively. The shapes of the emission spectra for Me2phen, Ph2phen, 1 and 2 are similar but the luminescent emission of complexes of 1 and 2 are weaker than those of free Me2phen and Ph2phen ligands. There are red shifts of the emission energies of the Ph2phen ligand after coordination to In(III) for complex 2.
A retrospective study of Staphylococcus aureus bacteraemia in an Irish neonatal unit
Authors: O' Connell K. , Grundy K. , Woolhead E. , Clarke T. , Bennett D. , Cafferkey M.T.
Published: December 2019

Staphylococcus aureus bloodstream infection in neonates is associated with a high risk of mortality. The aim of this study was to describe the incidence and epidemiology of Staphylococcus aureus bacteraemia in our unit. We retrospectively reviewed Staphylococcus aureus bloodstream infections in our neonatal unit at the Rotunda Hospital, Dublin, Ireland over a 7-year period using both laboratory and clinical data. We noted a high incidence of methicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA) bacteraemia of 7.3 per 1,000 admissions. The majority of these (89%) were hospital-acquired and the source was deemed to be venous catheter-related in 47% neonates. Several measures were instituted to address the issue of MSSA bacteraemia on the unit including the introduction of line care bundles and screening for MSSA with decolonisation of carriers. Conclusions: We observed a high incidence of MSSA bacteraemia in our unit correlating with an increasingly busy unit and sub-optimal staffing levels. Root cause analysis revealed inadequate documentation of venous catheter insertion and line maintenance. There was a reduction in the number of MSSA bacteremias in 2010 following multiple interventions. Continued surveillance will reveal in time whether the observed reduction in the number of MSSA bacteremias is sustained.
Can Doppler studies predict mortality in fetuses with congenital hydrocephalus?
Authors: Sallout B.I. , Shakeel F.H. , Mirza A.M. , Aboulahia M.M.
Published: December 2019

Objectives: To evaluate the changes in middle cerebral artery (MCA) Doppler blood flow in fetuses with congenital hydrocephalus in relationship with perinatal mortality. Methods: This a prospective study conducted in King Fahad Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia from January 2008 to December 2010. All fetuses diagnosed with congenital hydrocephalus had detailed morphology scans. The associated congenital anomalies, cortical mental thickness measurement, and MCA Doppler abnormalities ware marked. Perinatal mortality rates were evaluated in relation to those three findings. The main outcome measures were MCA Doppler changes and perinatal mortality rate. Results: We managed 116 cases of congenital ventriculomegaly and hydrocephalus (35 cases with mild ventriculomegaly, 29 cases with severe ventriculomegaly, and 52 cases with hydrocephalus). The birth incidence of congenital hydrocephalus was 3.52 per 1,000 live births and the total perinatal mortality rate was 40.4% (21/52). Out of 52 cases of hydrocephalus, 9 fetuses were diagnosed with abnormal MCA Doppler (absent or reverse diastolic flow). All nine fetuses died before the age of 24 hours. Abnormal MCA Doppler and a cortical mental thickness measurement of less than 10 mm were significantly associated with higher perinatal mortality rates with a relative risk of 4.42 and 3.58 respectively. The association of congenital hydrocephalus with other congenital anomalies was not statistically associated with higher perinatal mortality. Conclusion: Congenital Hydrocephalus is a common abnormality that is associated with high perinatal mortality. Abnormal MCA Doppler blood flow appears to be a marker of poor prognosis and high perinatal mortality.
Retinopathy of prematurity: Where are we today?
Authors: Pierog A.A. , Mansour S.E. , Volpe M.V.
Published: December 2019

The purpose of this review is to discuss the history and pathogenesis of retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) and how this information currently impacts the understanding of risk factors for this complication of preterm birth. Aspects of retinal development, ROP development and progression, treatment, relevant basic science and clinical research studies are reviewed. Evolving knowledge in this field underscores the absolute necessity to reinforce the need for close follow-up of infants with ROP or a history of ROP to insure best visual outcomes into adulthood for children born prematurely.
Severe but reversible neonatal neurological dysfunction associated with in utero exposure to Sibelium (flunarizine dihydrochloride
Authors: Kilani R.A.
Published: December 2019

Sibelium is a Ca++ channel blocker used as a prophylactic treatment of migraine. No published data exist on the effect of Sibelium on the human fetus during pregnancy or newborn infant following delivery. We report two female siblings who were exposed to Sibelium during fetal life. Both were born with severe neurological depression requiring mechanical ventilation for 5 and 7 days. The findings consisted of hypotonia, hypoventilation/apnea, absent spontaneous movements, absent neonatal reflexes, contractures and skin edema. All the neurological abnormalities reversed by 5 to 7 days. The use of Sibelium during pregnancy can be associated with significant and severe, but reversible, neurological manifestations. The long term effect on neurological development remains concerning but unknown.