bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The viability of self-employment for individuals with disabilities in the United States: A synthesis of the empirical-research literature
Authors: Yamamoto Scott , Unruh Deanne , Bullis Michael
Published: December 2019

The lack of employment opportunities and stable employment for individuals with disabilities continues to pose personal and societal difficulties and challenges. Moreover, research and government statistics have consistently reported that individuals with disabilities have lower employment wages and benefits than individuals without disabilities, as well as limited opportunities for promotion and career advancement. Not surprisingly, individuals with disabilities also experience persistently higher poverty rates. While much is known in the empirical-research literature about individuals with disabilities who work for someone else, much less is known about individuals in self-employment. Some anecdotal information suggests that self-employment may be a way to improve these outcomes. In the present paper, we reviewed, analyzed, and synthesized the findings of empirical-research studies on self-employment of individuals with disabilities in the United States. We found that successful self-employment is defined in financial and non-financial terms and is largely influenced by three factors: individual characteristics, level of supports, and accountability systems. Because of the small number of U.S. research studies on self-employment, however, our conclusions are tentative. Further empirical research is needed, focusing especially on long-term outcomes. Implications for researchers, individuals with disabilities, and other stakeholders are discussed in conclusion.
Beyond yellow ribbons: Are employers prepared to hire, accommodate and retain returning veterans with disabilities?
Authors: Rudstam Hannah , Strobel Gower Wendy , Cook LaWanda
Published: December 2019

Are employers ready to hire, retain and accommodate veterans with disabilities (VWDs) returning from engagements in Iraq and Afghanistan? A survey of 1,083 human resource professionals examined employer readiness in three areas: knowledge, beliefs/willingness and actions/practices, with an emphasis on the signature disabilities of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI). Overall, employers surveyed did have willingness to employ VWDs and saw some benefits in doing so. Yet, they had key knowledge gaps around accommodating workers with PTSD and TBI and around disclosure issues. In the area of respondent willingness to employ VWDs, findings indicated most employers believed VWDs would benefit their organizations and would perform as well as other workers. Yet, they believed employing VWDs would involve more costs and more of a manager's time and were largely unsure if workers with PTSD were more likely than others to be violent in the workplace. Respondents' actions/practices indicated that the majority were not using recruitment or other resources specific to VWDs and had scant experience in accommodating workers with PTSD and TBI. Implications of these findings are discussed in terms of research and application to impact employer knowledge, willingness and practices around employing VWDs.
The IPS fidelity scale as a guideline to implement Supported Employment
Authors: Knaeps Jeroen , DeSmet Ann , Van Audenhove Chantal
Published: December 2019

Objective: Despite the wish of many people with SMI to work in a competitive job, employment rates are low. IPS is more effective than other vocational rehabilitation methods in achieving employment and its use should be extended to bridge the gap between user wish and reality. This study measures possibilities to implement IPS in Flanders, by investigating current use, barriers and facilitators across a wide range of services. Method: Semi-structured interviews with 17 vocational rehabilitation agencies were conducted, using the IPS Fidelity Scale and a list of open-ended questions on perceived barriers and opportunities. Results were analyzed via thematic analysis. Results: Results show an overall lack of implementation of IPS in Flanders, especially on the four core elements for which most evidence exists. An external style of attributing barriers to environment factors or client characteristics is apparent which could lead to a sense of resignation among counselors. Conclusions: The use of the IPS fidelity scale and open-ended questions has provided concrete levers to prepare for implementation: a strong leadership in the agencies to encourage optimism towards regular employment for people with SMI; closer co-operations between employment agencies, care agencies and employers; and a more facilitating legislation concerning using IPS.
Job tenure and quality of work life of people with psychiatric disabilities working in social enterprises
Authors: Lanctôt Nathalie , Corbière Marc , Durand Marie-José
Published: December 2019

Psychiatric disabilities may impact employment outcomes, particularly job tenure. However, little is known about the role of quality of work life (QWL) on an individual's ability to maintain his/her employment, particularly in the context of social enterprises. This study examines the impact of QWL on maintaining employment for people with psychiatric disabilities working in social enterprises. A prospective study was undertaken with 67 persons with psychiatric disabilities working in social enterprises. Participants were asked to fill out a battery of questionnaires that assessed QWL, self-esteem as a worker, job satisfaction, severity of symptoms, and general quality of life. Directors of human resources were contacted at six-month follow-up in order to obtain information regarding job tenure. Survival analysis was conducted using Kaplan-Meier curve and Cox regression to assess the risk of job termination and identify predictors. Eighty-nine percent (N = 60) of participants maintained their job during the follow-up period. Cox regression showed that individuals who have a higher QWL have a diminished risk of employment termination. This study demonstrated the important role that QWL may have on job tenure for people with psychiatric disabilities working in social enterprises. Interventions aimed at improving QWL should be offered to increase job tenure.
The experiences of people who re-enter the workforce following discharge from a forensic hospital
Authors: Tregoweth Jenni , Walton Jo Ann , Reed Kirk
Published: December 2019

There is scant reference to employment or community adjustment skills within the forensic psychiatry literature, and little evidence illustrating the experiences of people who are recipients of forensic psychiatric care. Situated within a New Zealand context, this article is drawn from a hermeneutic study that explored the return-to-work experiences of individuals following their discharge from long-term forensic hospitalisation. Their experiences are revealed within eleven essential themes. The study findings suggest that employment provides opportunities to build skills, stamina and collegial regard, thereby enhancing self-satisfaction and family esteem. Being bolstered by work accomplishments co-exists with on-the-job challenges largely concerned with stamina, stigma, social isolation and disclosure. Implications for forensic and vocational rehabilitation include the need for practitioner/client collaboration in (a) developing disclosure contingency plans, (b) sourcing alternative social opportunities and (c) designing dynamic return-to-work plans centred on clinical and practical supports such as effective medication regimes and negotiating workplace accommodations.
Methadone maintenance and Special Community Employment schemes: A study of Irish participants' views
Authors: Van Hout Marie Claire , Bingham Tim
Published: December 2019

Specialist vocational training for ex-drug users include employment skills training, supported placements and therapeutic work programmes. The research was peer led by Client Forum representatives of five ‘Special Community Employment’ schemes and aimed to explore participant experiences of Methadone Stabilization; ‘Special Community Employment’ schemes, and Vocational Outcomes. A Client Forum consultation (n = 11) and Client Forum representative focus groups (n = 2) were used to finalize interview questions. In depth interviews with a convenience sample of participants from ‘Special Community Employment’ schemes (n = 25) were conducted. Content and thematic analysis of narratives was undertaken with Client Forum (n = 11) interpretative support. The findings are indicative of ‘Special Community Employment’ schemes offering methadone maintenance participants' the opportunity to commence recovery, engage in vocational training and reintegrate into the community. However, participation in these schemes appeared restrictive and operated primarily as therapeutic medium, with little individual vocational care planning, training or supported work placements. Many participants reported leaving these schemes unqualified, unemployed and experiencing little aftercare. The research underscores the need for extensive revision of ‘Special Community Employment’ schemes within an interagency approach, so as to provide specific therapeutic supports dependent on individual recovery stage, and client specific vocational training needs, certification, work placement and supportive aftercare.
The Apple iPod Touch as a vocational support aid for adults with autism: Three case studies
Authors: Gentry Tony , Lau Stephanie , Molinelli Alissa , Fallen Amy , Kriner Richard
Published: December 2019

Personal digital assistants (PDAs) offer task management and organizational features that may be utilized to help people with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) function more successfully in the workplace. Additionally, onboard video cameras and add-on software applications provide rich opportunities for the implementation of personalized vocational supports for individual workers. This article reports on three cases of workers with ASD who have been trained to use Apple iPod Touch PDAs as vocational supports in the workplace, resulting in improved functional performance and reduced behavioral challenges.
The economics of supported employment: What new data tell us
Authors: Cimera Robert Evert
Published: December 2019

This paper reviews the literature on the economics of supported employment. By comparing results from research conducted prior to, and after, 2000, several important findings were identified. The first was that individuals with disabilities fare better financially from working in the community than in sheltered workshops, regardless of their disability. This is especially true given that the relative wages earned by supported employees have increased 31.2% since the 1980s while the wages earned by sheltered employees have decreased 40.6% during the same period. Further, supported employment appears to be more cost-effective than sheltered workshops over the entire “employment cycle'' and returns a net benefit to taxpayers.
Prevocational services and supported employment wages
Authors: Nazarov Zafar E. , Golden Thomas P. , Schrader Sarah von
Published: December 2019

Using an observational approach, we investigate the relationship between the receipt of prevocational services and subsequent hourly wages of consumers participating in supported employment programs. To evaluate the potential impact of these services on wages of consumers, we use six years (2005–2010) of data from of the New York Integrated Supported Employment Report (NYISER) data management system. Results indicate that receipt of prevocational services has a negative correlation with hourly wages of consumers. This finding suggests that prevocational services may have detrimental effects on providers' and consumers' expectations on consumers' work ability and productivity resulting in reduced hourly wages. Furthermore, participation in prevocational services may serve as a signal to employers about consumer's productivity.
Employment histories among patients with borderline personality disorder symptomatology
Authors: Sansone Randy A. , Leung Justin S. , Wiederman Michael W.
Published: December 2019

Whereas past research has characterized the course of symptoms in borderline personality disorder, functionality with regard to employment is less well-known. In this study, we examined 324 internal medicine outpatients with regard to employment history and borderline personality disorder symptomatology, using two self-report measures. In comparison with participants who did not exceed the cut-off scores on either measure of borderline personality disorder, those who did had a greater number of jobs since age 18, were employed less overall since age 18, were more likely to be paid “under the table”, and were more likely to be fired from a job. In the subsample with borderline personality disorder symptomatology, there were few employment differences between those with versus without past histories of psychiatric hospitalization. Findings suggest that individuals with borderline personality symptomatology do not fare as well with employment as their non-borderline peers.
Synthesis, characterization and mechanism of formation of 6-substituted nido-B10H13 decaboranes by the opening reaction of closo-decahydrodecaborate [B10H10]2− cage
Authors: Naoufal Daoud , Laila Zahra , Yazbeck Ogaritte , Hamad Hussein , Ibrahim Ghassan , Aoun Riman , Safa Ali , EL Jamal Mohieddine , Kanj Ali
Published: December 2019

The synthesis of new 6-LB10H13 (L = ligand) derivatives of decaborane B10H14 with different ligands was achieved by the opening cage reaction of closo-decahydrodecaborate (NH4)2B10H10 in the presence of a strong acid (HNO3 or H2SO4) in organic solvents (hexane or benzene derivatives). This reaction was performed by varying different factors: the acid strength, the solvent polarity, the equivalent amounts of (NH4)2B10H10 with respect to the acid used (1/4 or 1/6) and the reaction time (30 minutes to 24 hours). Nitric acid forced hexane solvent to play the role of ligand whereas sulfuric acid did not. The reaction of (NH4)2B10H10 with HNO3 in hexane produced 6-(C6H13)B10H13 and [B9H13NO3]−. The reaction of (NH4)2B10H10 with H2SO4 in aromatic solvent L (benzene, toluene, o-xylene and m-xylene) produced 6-LB10H13 and 6-(HO3SO)B10H13 as major products with B6H10 and [B9H14]− as minor products. All these derivatives were characterized by 11B NMR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR and negative ESI. This study elucidated some facts and ideas that were not clear concerning the mechanism of opening reaction of closo-[B10H10]2−.
Effect of calcination temperature on the structure of CuxCo1-xAl2O4 blue ceramic nano-pigment
Authors: Hashemian Saeedeh , Salehifar Hamila , Shamsi Ali
Published: December 2019

The effect of copper doping on the cobalt ferrite was investigated. Ceramic, pigment, nanoparticles of composition, CuxCo1-xAl2O4 (x = 0.0–1), were prepared using a chemical co-precipitation method. The effect of calcination temperature on the structure of the materials was investigated at 200, 500, 900 and 1200°C. The ceramic pigments were characterized by XRD, FTIR, TEM, UV-vis and colorimetric methods. The XRD patterns displayed the characteristic peaks of the spinel structure and cubic unit cell. The XRD results at 200, 500, 900 and 1200°C showed that the cobalt spinel phase formed at 500°C. The FTIR spectra displayed vibrations which were ascribed to the spinel structure. Particle sizes were determined by TEM to be 140 nm and 70 nm for CoAl2O4 and Cu0.5Co0.5Al2O4, respectively. The UV-vis spectra had three bands attributed to the Co2+ spin transitions in tetrahedral sites. The calorimetric data confirm the formation of sky blue pigments with highly negative b* values.
The reaction of British Anti-Lewisite (dimercaprol) with As(III), Sb(III), and Bi(III) oxides and salts
Authors: Ioannou Panayiotis V. , Vachliotis Dimitris G. , Kouli Ourania
Published: December 2019

The α,β-dithiol 2,3-dimercapto-1-propanol (dimercaprol or British Anti-Lewisite, BAL) reacts with AsCl3, in a 1:1 molar ratio, giving the expected cyclic adduct 1 but with As2O3 and with AsCl3, in 2:3 As/BAL molar ratios, gave gums composed of many compounds. BAL reacts with Sb2O3 in DMSO but the products could not be isolated. With SbCl3 two products 2 and 3 have been isolated in 1:1 and 2:3 Sb/BAL molar ratios. Bi2O3 in 1:1 and 2:3 molar ratios gave compounds 4 and 5. However, BiCl3 and Bi(NO3)3·5H2O in either 1:1 or 2:3 stoichiometries gave compounds 6 and 7, respectively, indicating that the >Bi-Cl and >Bi(NO3) bonds were not reactive towards excess BAL. The 1H and 13C NMR spectra of the Sb(III) and Bi(III) complexes in DMSO-d6 revealed broad signals attributed to the quadrupole relaxation of Sb and Bi nuclei. No relaxation was observed for the arsenic complex 1 in CD3OD. Other properties of the complexes are presented and discussed.
Syntheses, structures and catalase-like activities of mono-, tri- and pentanuclear Cu(II), Cu(II)-Co(II) complexes with cyanide and ONO tridentate oxime ligand
Authors: Karipcin Fatma , Cülü Burçin , Sharma Saroj K. , Qanungo Kushal
Published: December 2019

A novel cyanide containing mononuclear copper(II) oxime complex K[CuL(CN)] (1) was synthesized as a starting material to make new polynuclear complexes. Trinuclear complexes K2[{CuL(NC)}2(ML)] (M = Co(II) (2), Cu(II) (3) and pentanuclear complexes K2[{CuL(NC)}4M] (M = Co(II) (4), Cu(II) (5)) of 4-(2-amino-4-methylphenolisonitrosoacetyl)biphenyl (H2L) have been synthesized and characterized by elemental analysis, molar conductance, FT-IR, magnetic data. The lowest energy model structures of the ligand and its mononuclear Cu(II) complex have been determined by MOPAC 2007 program using PM6 method. Catalytic activities of the complexes for the disproportionation of hydrogen peroxide were investigated in the presence of imidazole. The multinuclear Cu(II)-Co(II) complexes (2, 4) display efficiency in disproportion reactions of hydrogen peroxide producing water and dioxygen in catalase-like activity.
New organocobaloximes with biphenylglyoxime ligands: Synthesis, spectroscopic and structural characterization
Authors: Erdem-Tuncmen Mukadder , Karipcin Fatma
Published: December 2019

New organocobaloximes of the types, [RCo(HL)2H2O] and [RCo(HL)2APy] (R=izopropyl and benzyl, H2L1=4-(4-chlorophenylamino)biphenylglyoxime, H2L2=4-(naphtyl-1-amino)biphenylglyoxime, APy=2-acetyl pyridine) have been synthesized and characterized by elemental analysis, magnetic susceptibility, molar conductivity, 1H-NMR, FT-IR, ICP-OES data. In addition, the thermal decomposition of complexes with H2L2 was studied in nitrogen atmosphere. The magnetic susceptibilities of the complexes indicated that they are diamagnetic (low-spin d6 octahedral).
Sensitive spectrophotometric determination of cypermethrin in its formulations, water and environmental samples
Authors: Gouda Ayman A. , Al Mazroai Laila S.
Published: December 2019

Three sensitive spectrophotometric methods were developed for the determination of cypermethrin in insecticidal formulations and environmental samples. The methods were based on the hydrolysis of cypermethrin with ethanolic KOH to form 3-phenoxy benzaldehyde. The resultant aldehyde group was condensed with 4-aminobenzoic acid in acidic medium to form red color product having λmax of 500 nm (Method A), condensed with anthranilic acid in presence of basic medium to form orange red color product having λmax of 482 nm (method B) or condensed with 4-chlorophenyl hydrazine to form purple color product having λmax of 550 nm (method C). The color derivatives were stable for 7, 8 and 10 days for methods A, B and C, respectively. The Beer's law was obeyed over the concentration range of 40–1200, 50–1500 and 50–2000 ng mL−1 for methods A, B and C, respectively. The molar absorptivity and Sandell's sensitivity, detection and quantification limits were calculated. The proposed methods have been applied for the analysis of cypermethrin in its formulations, water (tap and river), grain (rice and wheat), vegetables and fruits samples.
Preparation, crystal structure, and thermal decomposition of the novel bridged bimetallic complex [CuNa2(μ-cyan-N)4(H2O)6]n(cyan-N = isocyanurate, C3H2N3O3−) based on cyanuric acid
Authors: Xue Lin-Jun , Bi Yan-Gang , Wu Bi-Dong , HaoQiu  , You-ZhiMa  , Yang Li , Zhang Tong-Lai
Published: December 2019

The bridged bimetallic compound [CuNa2(μ-cyan-N)4(H2O)6]n contains two metal ions, μ-cyan-N (cyan-N = isocyanurate, C3H2N3O3−) and water molecule and was characterized by elemental analysis, FT-IR spectroscopy and Single-Crystal X-ray diffraction. The crystal data of [CuNa2(μ-cyan-N)4(H2O)6]n: triclinic P-1(2), a = 6.6953(12) Å, b = 10.4322(17) Å and c = 10.4390(15) Å. The central Cu2+ is surrounded by two kinds of centrosymmetric molecules, cyan-N and H2O. There are two phenomena to be noted. The length of Na1-O3 is 2.3136(11)Å, shorter than Na1-O5 (2.5445(12)Å) and the length of O5-C17(1.2283(15)Å) is longer than O3-C18(1.2235(15)Å). The differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) analysis shows that [CuNa2(μ-cyan-N)4(H2O)6]n decomposes in two steps, the first peak temperature is 228.9°C (exothermic process) and the second peak temperature is 399.3°C (endothermic process).
Study the structural, optical and electrical properties of sprayed Zinc oxide (ZnO) thin films before and after annealing temperature
Authors: Aoun Yacine , Benhaoua Boubaker , Gasmi Brahim , Benramache Said
Published: December 2019

Zinc oxide (ZnO) thin films were deposited on glass substrates by spray pyrolysis technique by decomposition of zinc acetate dihydrate in ethanol. The ZnO thin films were deposited at 350°C and annealed at 500°C for 2 h. The substrate was R217102 glass in a size of 30 cm × 7.5 cm × 0.1 cm. The films exhibited a hexagonal wurtzite structure with a strong (002) preferred orientation. The higher value of crystallite size (20.29 nm) was attained with films annealed at 500°C, probably due to improvement of the crystallinity of the films with heating. The average transmittance of the films, by UV-Vis, was over of 95 %. The band gap energy varied from 3.279 to 3.288 eV for the non-annealed and annealed films, respectively. The electrical resistivity was measured to be 0.4 Ω.cm.
Physico-chemical properties of carbohydrate polymer coatings for slow release urea industry
Authors: Naz M.Y. , Sulaiman S.A.
Published: December 2019

It has been estimated that 20–70% of the used urea escapes to the environment which not only harms the environment but also reduces the urea efficiency. The urea performance can be enhanced by applying the coatings and controlling the nutrients release. For this purpose, different organic and inorganic materials are being used in urea coating industry. Most of them are either expensive or unfriendly to the environment and remind us to work on their alternatives. Being cheap and eco-friendly materials, the modified starches may also be used as a potential coating material for slow release urea. Therefore, in this study, cassava starch was reacted and modified with urea and di-sodium tetraborate. The resulting starchy solution was used to coat the urea granules of 3.45 mm size. The FTIR spectroscopy was used to study the reaction mechanism. The coated and uncoated urea was further characterized for surface morphology, coating hardness and dissolution rate. The SEM images revealed that the surface of the coated urea was denser and smoother as compared with the uncoated urea. The coated surfaces were also found uniform, hard, compact and water resistant. The overall nutrients release time of the coated urea was 3 times higher when compared with uncoated urea. It was concluded that the surface hardness of coated urea strongly depends on the coating composition and thickness.
Reactions of tris(trimethylsilyl)aluminum with aniline and	2,6-diisopropylaniline
Authors: Fan Maomin , Duesler Eileen N. , Nöth Heinrich , Paine Robert T.
Published: December 2019

The 1:1 combination of (Me $_{3}$ Si) $_{3}$ Al • OEt $_{2}$ with the primary aryl amine, aniline, in hexane at 23°C shows no evidence for the generation of an acid-base adduct. However, under reflux, the combination produces Me $_{3}$ SiH and a mixture of cis and trans isomers of a dimeric aminoalane, [(Me $_{3}$ Si) $_{2}$ AlN(H)(C $_{6}$ H $_{5})$ ] $_{2}$ (1). In refluxing toluene, the same reagent combination evolves Me $_{3}$ SiH with formation of a cubane-like iminoalane, [(Me $_{3}$ Si)AlNPh] $_{4}$ (2). In contrast, the 1:1 combination of (Me $_{3}$ Si) $_{3}$ Al • OEt $_{2}$ with sterically more crowded 2,6-diisopropylaniline in hexane at 23°C leads to an adduct, (Me $_{3}$ Si) $_{3}$ Al • N(H) $_{2}$ (2,6-iPr $_{2}$ C $_{6}$ H $_{3}$ ) (3). Reflux of a toluene solution of 3 results in Me $_{3}$ SiH elimination with formation of a trimeric iminoalane, [(Me $_{3}$ Si)AlN(2,6- $i$ Pr $_{2}$ C $_{6}$ H $_{3}$ )] $_{3}$ (4). A low level impurity of 2,4-diisopropylaniline in 2,6-diisopropylaniline gives a dimeric aminoalane, [(Me $_{3}$ Si) $_{2}$ AlN(H)(2,4-i Pr $_{2}$ C $_{6}$ H $_{3}$ )] $_{2}$ (5). The molecular structures of 1, 2, 4 and 5 were determined by single crystal X-ray diffraction methods, and the reaction pathways are compared with the reactions of (Me $_{3}$ Si) $_{3}$ Al • OEt $_{2}$ and the primary borazinylamine, (H $_{2}$ N)B $_{3}$ (Me) $_{2}$ N $_{3}$ Me $_{3}$ .
On the use of organotin reagents for the preparation of partially esterified glycerol and meso-erythritol
Authors: Ioannou P.V. , Tsivgoulis G.M.
Published: December 2019

The use of dibutylstannylene ketals of two polyhydric alcohols is explored with the aim at the regiospecific preparation of partially esterified glycerol and meso-erythritol. The mono-dibutylstannylene ketal of glycerol with palmitoyl chloride gave both 1,3-diglyceride and 1-monoglyceride. The mono- and the bis-dibutylstannylene ketals of meso-erythritol with palmitoyl chloride under 1 : 1 and 1 : 2 mole ratios, respectively, gave the same product, 1,2,4-tripalmitoyl-meso-erythritol, while the bis-dibutylstannylene ketal of meso-erythritol and palmitoyl chloride (1 : 1 mole ratio) gave tri- and di-esters of meso-erythritol. The probable paths to these products are discussed.
Synthesis, crystal structure and thermal decomposition of a novel environmentally friendly energetic cesium compound, [Cs2(HTNR)(OH)(H2O)]n
Authors: Zhang Jian-Guo , Wang Kun , Li Zhi-Min , Zheng Hong , Zhang Tong-Lai , Yang Li
Published: December 2019

A novel energetic cesium compound based on trinitroresorein, [Cs2(HTNR)(OH)(H2O)]n (H2TNR: 2,4,6-trinitroresorcinol) has been synthesized by the reaction of cesium nitrate and styphnic acid. The molecular structure was characterized by using X-ray diffraction analysis, elemental analysis and FT-IR analysis. The crystalline material is monoclinic with space group P2(1)/c and the empirical formula is Cs2C6H5N3O10. The unit cell parameters are: a = 6.843(1) Å, b = 10.185(2) Å, c = 19.026(4) Å, β = 96.21(1)°, V = 1318.21(40) Å3, Z = 4, Dc = 2.746 Mg/m3, Mr = 544.95, F(000) = 1008, μ(Mo Kα) = 5.588 mm−1. The thermal decomposition mechanism of the compound was studied by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and thermo-gravimetric derivative (TG-DTG) techniques. At the linear heating rate of 10°C/min, the thermal decomposition of the compound finally evolved CsCN and other gas products, which indicated three decomposition processes between 60 and 500°C.
Synthesis, characterization, 81Br NMR and structural calculation of two new mixed anionic haloborate ionic liquids
Authors: Ghammamy Shahriar , Mehrani Kheyrollah , Sahebalzamani Hajar , Banibairami Tahmineh
Published: December 2019

Two new ionic liquids compounds: tetrapropylammonium bromotrifluoroborate [(C3H7)4N][BF3Br]; (1) and tetrabutylammonium bromotrifluoroborate [(C4H9)4N][BF3Br]; (2) were prepared using one-step reactions. The two new ionic liquids were characterized by IR, 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR, 81Br-NMR and 19F-NMR. The 81Br chemical shifts were 92, 89 and the 19F chemical shifts were 113.4, 113.1 for 1 and 2, respectively. Some physical properties such as density and solubility have been measured for these compounds. The densities of 1 and 2 were 1.018 and 1.023, respectively. The compounds were studied computationally at B3LYP/LANL2DZ level of theory. The optimized structures were in good agreement with the available experimental results.
Synthesis and structural characterization of biologically active organometallic silicon and tin compounds derived from new triazole Schiff bases
Authors: Singh Kiran , Puri Parvesh , Kumar Yogender , Sharma Chetan
Published: December 2019

This article describe the syntheses and characterization of some new diorganosilicon(IV) and diorganotin(IV) complexes having general formulae R2MCl(L1) (1a, 1b), R2M(L1)2 (1c, 1d) R2MCl(L2) (2a, 2b), and R2M(L2)2 (2c, 2d). The compounds were synthesized from the reaction of R2MCl2 with new Schiff bases (HL1-2) in 1 : 1 and 1 : 2 molar ratios, where M=Si and Sn, R=CH3. The Schiff bases HL1 and HL2 have been prepared by the reaction of 3-bromobenzaldehyde with 4-amino-5-mercapto-s-triazole and 4-amino-5-mercapto-3-methyl-s-triazole, respectively. The new Schiff bases and their metal complexes have been characterized by elemental analysis, molar conductance and spectroscopic studies including UV, IR, 1H, 13C, 29Si and 119Sn NMR spectroscopy. On the bases of these studies, the resulting complexes are proposed to have trigonal bipyramidal (compounds 1–4) and octahedral geometries (compounds 5–8). In vitro activities of ligands and their metal complexes against some Gram positive (Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus subtilis), Gram negative (Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa) bacteria and fungi (Aspergillus Niger and A. Flavus) have been carried out. The antimicrobial data reveals that the organometallic compounds are superior to the free ligands and their toxicity has increased as per the increase in concentration.
Synthesis, spectroscopic and antimicrobial studies of zinc(II) derivatives with Schiff bases derived from 2-hydrazino-5-[substituted phenyl]-1,3,4-oxadiazole
Authors: Singh A.K. , Pandey O.P. , Sengupta S.K.
Published: December 2019

Zn(II) complexes have been synthesized by reacting zinc acetate with Schiff bases derived from 2-hydrazino-5-[substituted phenyl]-1,3,4-oxadiazole and appropriate aldehyde (benzaldehyde/2-hydroxyacetophenone) and indoline-2,3-dione. All these complexes are soluble in DMF and DMSO. Low molar conductance values indicate that they are non electrolytes. Elemental analysis suggests that the complexes have 1 : 2 stoichiometry of the type [ZnL'2(OOCCH3)2.2H2O], [ZnL2.2H2O] (L' = Schiff bases derived from 2-hydrazino-5-[substituted phenyl]-1,3,4-oxadiazole and benzaldehyde; LH = Schiff bases derived from 2-hydrazino-5-[substituted phenyl]-1,3,4-oxadiazole and 2-hydroxyacetophenone/indoline-2,3-dione) and they were characterized by IR, 1H NMR and 13C NMR. All these Schiff bases and their complexes have also been screened for their antibacterial (Bacillus subtilis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Salmonella typhi and Streptococcus pyogenes) antifungal activities (Colletrotrichum falcatum, Aspergillus niger, Fusarium oxysporium and Carvularia pallescence) by reported method.
Layers of a cobalt(II) thenoyl-β-diketonato complex by supramolecular recognition
Authors: Al-Anber Mohammed , Ecorchard Petra , Rüffer Tobias , Lang Heinrich
Published: December 2019

The cobalt(II) complex [Co(tta)2(H2O)2] (3) was prepared by the reaction of [Co(OAc)2·4H2O] (2) (OAc = O2CMe) with two equivalents of 1-(2-Thenoyl)-3,3,3-trifluoroacetone (H-tta, 1). Replacement of the aqua ligands in 3 was possible by addition of methanol giving [Co(tta)2(HOMe)2] (4). On gentle heating metal-organic 3 to 134–165°C, complex [Co­(tta)2] (5) was formed. The structure of 4 in the solid state was determined by single X-ray structure analysis. Crystal data for C18H18CoF6O6S2 are: a = 10.3502(7), b = 10.3589(8), c = 11.7177(10) Å, α = 97.376(7), β = 114.807(7), γ = 97.950(6)°, space group P-1, Z = 2, and dcalc = 1.705 mg/m3. Complex 4 possesses a distorted octahedral coordination sphere at cobalt, whereby the coordination sites are occupied by two chelated tta ligands and two cis-coordinated methanol molecules. Formation of intermolecular MeO–H${\cdots}$Odiketonate hydrogen bridges resulted in the setup of a 1D chain. Through additional π–π interactions between thiophene rings of individual chains a band structure along the crystallographic b axes is generated.
Five-times-sit-to-stand test in children with cerebral palsy: Reliability and concurrent validity
Authors: Kumban Wannisa , Amatachaya Sugalya , Emasithi Alongkot , Siritaratiwat Wantana
Published: December 2019

Background/Purpose:

Five-times-sit-to-stand test (FTSST) is a reliable tool for measuring lower limb functional strength and balance ability. However, reports of the reliability of FTSST in children with cerebral palsy have been scarce. The purposes of this study were (1) to investigate the test-retest and inter-rater reliability of the FTSST and (2) to investigate the correlation between the FTSST and standard functional balance tests in children with cerebral palsy.

Study Design:

Cross-sectional study.

Materials and Methods:

Thirty-three school children aged from 6 to 18 years with Gross motor functional classification system expanded and revised version (GMFCS-E&R) level I to III were recruited. Reliability of the FTSST and concurrent validity between FTSST and Timed up and go test (TUG) and Berg balance scale (BBS) were determined using the Pearson product moment correlation.

Results:

The intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC) for test-retest and inter-rater reliability of FTSST were 0.91 and 0.88 respectively. FTSST showed moderate correlation with TUG ( r = 0.552, P < 0.01) and with BBS ( r = −0.561, P < 0.01).

Conclusion:

FTSST is a reliable assessment tool and correlates with functional balance ability tests in children with mild to moderate cerebral palsy.
Comparison of gait training versus cranial osteopathy in patients with Parkinson's disease: A pilot study
Authors: Müller Thomas , Pietsch Angela
Published: December 2019

Background:

A physiotherapy subtype is gait training (GT), which aims on correction of posture and gait re-education in patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD). Osteopathy in the cranial field (OCF) is a gentle manual method to treat dysfunctions of the central nervous system. Therapists may employ GT and OCF to bypass deficient basal ganglia dysfunction, which causes gait disturbances in PD.

Objectives:

Objectives of this pilot study were to demonstrate the efficacy of both procedures on gait and to compare their effects within a cross over design.

Methods:

18 PD patients received on two subsequent days one GT- and one OCF session each. The ten meter walking test (WT) was performed before and after each therapeutic intervention.

Results:

GT reduced the number of steps but not the interval in the WT. OCF declined the period but not the step frequency in the WT. The computed differences of WT outcomes before and after each intervention did not vary between both methods. Both sessions together shortened the interval but not number of steps in the WT.

Conclusion:

GT improves walking behaviour with a specific focus on an optimised performance of the necessary movement sequences regarding their accuracy and amplitude. As OCF decreased the interval, it ameliorates speed of motion execution during gait. GT and OCF enhance different aspects of gait in PD.
Validity and reliability of a new test for Turkish-speaking aphasic patients: Ege Aphasia Test
Authors: Calis Funda Atamaz , On Arzu Yagiz , Durmaz Berrin
Published: December 2019

Due to the fact that the phonetic, morphological and syntactic structures of the Turkish language differ significantly from other European languages, the translated forms of the currently available aphasia assessment batteries are not adequate for Turkish-speaking aphasic patients. The aim of this study was to assess the validity and reliability of the Ege Aphasia Test that we have developed. The test, which includes the 8 subtests of praxia, spontaneous language, auditory and verbal comprehension, repetition, naming, reading, writing and calculating, was applied into 100 aphasic patients, 40 dysarthric patients and 40 healthy subjects. All test-retest intra-class correlation coefficients were found to be excellent (ICC = 0.99). The Cronbach's coefficients ranged from 0.71 to 0.91. All the subtests showed significantly greater scores in aphasic patients ( p < 0.05). Significant correlations were found between the subtests and corrected total score ( p < 0.05). Finally, the Ege Aphasia Test has an acceptable validity and reliability. It seems to be a promising battery for evaluation of aphasia in the Turkish language, which is spoken mainly in Turkey and in the surrounding regions. We believe that this study will pioneer the development of aphasia rehabilitation in these countries and contribute to future studies.
Predictors of functional outcome in Saudi Arabian patients with stroke after inpatient rehabilitation
Authors: Abdul-sattar Amal B. , Godab Tarek
Published: December 2019

Purpose:

To identify the possible factors influencing functional outcome of stroke patients after inpatient rehabilitation.

Methods:

One hundred and eighty patients with stroke consecutively admitted for inpatient stroke rehabilitation was studied. Demographic and stroke characteristics, impairment (National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale), disability level (Functional Independence Measure [FIM]), psycho-emotional state (Geriatric Depression Scale-15 [GDS-15]), cognitive function (Mini Mental State Evaluation [MMSE]), and preexisting medical conditions were recorded at admission. The main measure of functional outcome was the discharge FIM score. The univariate and multiple linear regression analyses were performed.

Result:

The Mean admission total FIM score was 64.8 ± 22.4 and the mean discharge total FIM score was 84.0 ± 23.0, with this gain being highly significant (P < 0.001). Univariate analyses indicated that the significant factors influencing functional outcome of stroke patients at discharge from rehabilitation included age, total FIM score at admission, severity of stroke, recurrent stroke, cognitive impairment, and depression. However, in multiple linear regression analyses, age was not significant predictor.

Conclusion:

Age predicts the function outcome to lesser extent than other covariate. The admission total FIM score, cognitive condition, depression, and stroke severity are predictors of functional outcome of stroke patients after inpatient rehabilitation.
Tolerance and effectiveness of a new dynamic hand-wrist orthosis in chronic stroke patients
Authors: Andringa Aukje S. , Van de Port Ingrid G.L. , Meijer Jan-Willem G.
Published: December 2019

Purpose:

To evaluate tolerance of a new dynamic hand-wrist orthosis and effectiveness on the prevention of progressive wrist contracture and spasticity after stroke.

Method:

Chronic stroke patients (N = 6) with upper limb spasticity, who had not been able to endure a static orthosis, were provided with a custom-made dynamic orthosis. Tolerance of the orthosis was evaluated by the daily wearing time, and self-reported pain and spasticity. Effectiveness was measured by contracture of wrist and finger flexor muscles, upper limb spasticity and use of spasticity treatment. Outcome measures were collected at time of fitting of the dynamic orthosis (baseline) and after three and six months.

Results:

Five patients could endure the dynamic orthosis without discomfort for 6 hours daily during the 6-month period. Self-reported spasticity and pain decreased significantly (p < 0.05) compared to wearing the static orthosis. In comparison to baseline, the maximum passive wrist extension increased significantly from −29° to −12° (p < 0.05). Although, no significant change in spasticity was measured, the use of Botulinum Toxin injections decreased for two patients.

Conclusions:

The majority of the included chronic stroke patients tolerated the new dynamic orthosis for at least 6 hours daily and the use significantly reduced wrist contractures in a 6-month period.
Biomechanical muscle stimulation and active-assisted cycling improves active range of motion in individuals with Parkinson's disease
Authors: Corbett Duane B. , Peer Kimberly S. , Ridgel Angela L.
Published: December 2019

Background:

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a neurological disorder which often results in joint rigidity, bradykinesia and decreased range of motion (ROM). Segmental biomechanical muscle stimulation (BMS) can increase ROM in healthy young adults. However, acute effects on ROM in PD have not been examined.

Objective:

To examine whether BMS and active-assisted cycling (AAC) of the legs results in acute changes in ROM in PD.

Methods:

Seventeen individuals with PD completed four sessions. Subjects first came to the lab ‘on’ PD medications and completed baseline assessments. During session 2, subjects were ‘off’ PD medications and watched a video describing the interventions. In the 3rd and 4th visits, subjects were ‘off’ medications and the order of AAC or BMS was counterbalanced. Shoulder and hip ROM was measured prior to and immediately after each intervention and hip kinematics were examined during over-ground walking.

Results:

There was a significant improvement in hip and shoulder ROM after BMS and AAC. Hip velocity during over-ground walking improved after BMS but not after AAC.

Conclusions:

Single bouts of BMS and AAC have a positive effect on ROM and hip velocity during over-ground walking. This suggests that BMS and AAC may be altering central motor control processes.
Validity and responsiveness of the German version of the Motor Activity Log for the assessment of self-perceived arm use in hemiplegia after stroke
Authors: Meier Khan Christine , Oesch Peter
Published: December 2019

Background:

Rehabilitation of patients after stroke requires valid and responsive assessments for arm and hand function to determine the effectiveness of rehabilitative interventions. The Motor Activity Log (MAL) aims to assess self-perceived arm and hand use after stroke. Its clinimetric properties are incomplete and contradictory.

Objective:

To investigate internal consistency, concurrent validity and responsiveness of the German MAL-30 in patients after stroke with minimal to moderate arm and hand function.

Methods:

42 patients were included in this longitudinal prospective cohort study. Internal consistency was determined in a complete-case analysis with Cronbach's α. Concurrent validity was assessed with Spearman' rho by comparing the German MAL-30 with Wolf Motor Function Test, Chedoke McMaster Stroke Assessment, isometric elbow, shoulder and grip strength at baseline, post-treatment and 6 month follow-up. Responsiveness was determined separately for lower and higher arm and hand function by calculating the standardized response mean.

Results:

Internal consistency was excellent (Cronbach's α = 0.94–0.99), concurrent validity good to excellent (Spearman's rho = 0.64–0.99). Responsiveness was high for both functional levels from baseline to discharge (SRM = 0.93–1.43) and to follow-up (SRM = 0.95–1.34).

Conclusion:

The German MAL-30 is a valid and responsive assessment for self-perceived arm and hand use after stroke even when function is low.
Do motor impairments detected on onset of multiple sclerosis suggest an early second attack? A prospective study
Authors: Kalron Alon , Dvir Zeevi , Gurevich Michael , Achiron Anat
Published: December 2019

Background:

Factors determining the clinically isolated syndrome (CIS) patient's likelihood of developing multiple sclerosis (MS) are important for the clinician who needs to identify patients warranting immunomodulatory treatments.

Objective:

To determine whether motor abnormalities found during the initial demyelinating event imply an increased risk of a second event within the first year.

Methods:

Fifty-two early onset CIS patients, volunteered to participate in the prospective study. Motor parameters collected at onset included gait, balance, lower limb peak isometric strength and fatigue index parameters. At the end of one year, patients were subdivided into two groups, those who had experienced a second demyelinating attack suggestive of MS and those who maintained their clinical status.

Results:

Forty-nine patients were included in the final analysis. Within the first year, 24 patients experienced a second attack, while 25 maintained their neurological status. Patients who suffered a second demyelinating attack, demonstrated reduced overall lower limb peak strength compared with patients who maintained their clinical status (411.9 (S.E. = 32.1) vs. 514.8 (S.E. = 34.1). No differences were observed between groups in gait and balance parameters.

Conclusion:

An initial demyelinating event characterized by reduced lower limb strength can possibly suggest an increased risk of an early second attack.
Trunk muscle activity during walking in persons with multiple sclerosis: The influence of body weight support
Authors: Swinnen Eva , Baeyens Jean-Pierre , Pintens Seppe , Van Nieuwenhoven Johan , Ilsbroukx Stephan , Clijsen Ron , Buyl Ronald , Goossens Maggie , Meeusen Romain , Kerckhofs Eric
Published: December 2019

Background:

Although the trunk is important for maintaining balance during walking only very limited information about the trunk muscle activity during walking with body weight support (BWS) is reported in literature.

Objective:

The aim of this study was to measure the effect of BWS on the trunk muscle activity during treadmill walking.

Methods:

14 persons with multiple sclerosis and 14 healthy persons walked on a treadmill with 0%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 50% and 70% BWS. Bilateral EMG measurements (surface electrodes) on the m. rectus abdominis, m. obliquus externus, m. erector spinae and m. multifidus were performed. The maximal muscle activation was presented as a percentage of a performance related reference contraction. A repeated measures ANOVA with simple contrasts was applied (SPSS20).

Results:

In general when comparing walking with BWS with walking with 0% BWS there is an increase in m. obliquus externus activity and a decrease in back muscle activity. With increasing percentages of BWS an increase in activity of the abdominal muscles and a decrease in back muscle activity was found, with most changes in high percentages BWS.

Conclusion:

Based on the results, it is recommended to decrease the percentage BWS as fast as possible beneath 30% BWS.
The effects of speed-dependent treadmill training and rhythmic auditory-cued overground walking on gait function and fall risk in individuals with idiopathic Parkinson's disease: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Harro Cathy C. , Shoemaker Michael J. , Frey Oksana J. , Gamble April C. , Harring Kendra B. , Karl Katherine L. , McDonald Jeffrey D. , Murray Carolyn J. , Tomassi Erika M. , Van Dyke Jasmine M. , VanHaistma Rachel J.
Published: December 2019

Objectives:

The purpose of this randomized controlled study was to examine and compare the immediate and retention effects of speed-dependent treadmill training (SDTT) and rhythmic auditory-cued (RAC) overground walking on gait function and fall risk in individuals with Parkinson's disease (PD).

Methods:

Twenty participants (mean age 66.1 yrs) with idiopathic PD were randomized into either SDTT (n = 10) or RAC (n = 10) progressive, interval-based locomotor training protocols. Immediate and retention training effects on gait function and fall risk were measured by comfortable and fast gait speed (CGS, FGS), 6-Minute Walk Test (6MWT), and Functional Gait Assessment (FGA).

Results:

Immediate within-group training effects revealed significant gains in CGS, 6MWT, and FGA for the RAC group, and in FGS, 6-MinuteWalk Test, and FGA for the SDTT group. Retention effects were found at 3-month follow-up for all gait measures in the RAC group, and for FGS and FGA in the SDTT group. No statistically significant differences in immediate or retention training effects on gait measures were found between groups.

Conclusions:

Externally-cued locomotor training with progressive and interval-based speed challenges, either with RAC overground or on a treadmill, produced significant improvements in walking speed, endurance, and dynamic balance during walking.