bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Self-Diffusion Coefficients of Each Component in Water+t-Butyl Alcohol and Water+t-Butylamine Binary Mixtures
Authors: Kipkemboi Pius Keronei , Easteal Allan James
Published: August 2006

The self-diffusion coefficients of water and of the organic component have been measured for H2O+t-butyl alcohol and H2O+t-butylamine mixtures over the whole composition range at 301 K, using the NMR spin-echo technique. In the water-rich region below 20 mol% of cosolvent, the self-diffusion coefficients of both components for each binary solvent system decrease rapidly with increasing cosolvent content. In cosolvent-rich mixtures with more than 50 mol% cosolvent, motions of water are evidently strongly correlated with those of cosolvent molecules. The semiempirical equation proposed by Albright relating the shear viscosity of a mixture to the diffusion coefficients of its components successfully predicts the general shape of the viscosity curve for each binary system. For the composition region above 50 mol% cosolvent the Albright equation gives calculated viscosities which agree well with observed values, but in the water-rich region there are significant deviations between the observed and calculated viscosities.
Direct Electrical Response between Glucose Oxidase and Poly(mercapto-p-benzoquinone) Films
Authors: Arai Gorou , Masuda Miwako , Yasumori Iwao
Published: August 2006

Glucose oxidase was immobilized in a conductive redox polymer, poly(mercapto-p-benzoquinone), by means of an electropolymerization of mercaptohydroquinone in the presence of the enzyme. A glassy carbon electrode coated with the resulting polymer film functioned well as a direct response type of glucose sensor, where the polymer chain served as a conductive molecular chain between the active center (FAD) in the enzyme and the substrate electrode. The sensor showed excellent selectivity and possessed good durability.
Analysis of the Valence X-Ray Photoelectron Spectra of Eight (–CH2–CHR–)n and Two (–CH2–C(CH3)R–)n Polymers by the Semi-Empirical HAM/3 MO Method Using the Trimer Model Molecules H–(–CH2–CHR–)3–H and H–(–CH2–C(CH3)R–)3–H
Authors: Aida Masayuki , Kaneda Yasuo , Kobayashi Naoya , Endo Kazunaka , Chong Delano P
Published: August 2006

The valence X-ray photoelectron spectra of ten polymers [(–CH2–CHR–)n (R = C6H5, OCH3, COCH3, COOH, COOCH3, OCOCH3, CONH2, C4H6NO (N-vinylpyrrolidone)) and (–CH2–C(CH3)R–)n (R = COOCH3 and CONH2)] were analyzed by a semi-empirical HAM/3 MO method using trimer model molecules [H–(–CH2–CHR–)3–H (R = C6H5, OCH3, COCH3, COOH, COOCH3, OCOCH3, CONH2, and C4H6NO (N-vinylpyrrolidone) and H–(–CH2–C(CH3)R–)3–H (R = COOCH3 and CONH2)], respectively. The calculated Al Kα photoelectron spectra were obtained using Gaussian functions of a fixed approximate linewidth (0.10 Ik; Ik = I′k − ΔW, where I′k is the vertical ionization potential of each MO and ΔW is an approximate shift to account for the work-function effects. We assumed that ΔW corresponds to the shift that we must apply before we could compare the calculated spectrum for a single model molecule with the observed spectrum for the solid. The theoretical spectra showed good agreement with the spectra of the polymers, as observed between 0—40 eV.
Tandem Intermolecular–Intramolecular Michael Addition of Bifunctional Hetero Nucleophiles to Polyfluoro-2-alkynoic Acids. Facile Synthesis of Polyfluoroalkylated Azaheterocycles
Authors: Funabiki Kazumasa , Tamura Kazushige , Ishihara Takashi , Yamanaka Hiroki
Published: August 2006

Polyfluoro-2-alkynoic acids, Rf–C≡C–COOH (1a—c: a, Rf = CHF2; b, Rf = CF3; c, Rf = CHF2CF2CF2), readily underwent an intermolecular–intramolecular Michael addition reaction with a variety of bifunctional azanucleophiles, such as RNHCH2CH2XH (R = H, Me; X = NH, S, O, NMe) and o-phenylenediamine, to give the corresponding carboxylated and/or decarboxylated 2-(polyfluoroalkyl)imidazolidine, thiazolidine, and oxazolidine derivatives in moderate to good yields.
Features of the Quantum Chain Process in the Photochemical One-Way Isomerization of 2-Anthrylethylenes
Authors: Karatsu Takashi , Tsuchiya Masami , Arai Tatsuo , Sakuragi Hirochika , Tokumaru Katsumi
Published: August 2006

Regarding 2-anthrylethylenes which undergo a photochemical cis-to-trans one-way isomerization, their preparative methods are presented. The isomerization of ArCH=CHPh and ArCH=CH(2-naphthyl) (Ar: 2-anthryl) proceeds through a quantum chain process slightly more efficiently than ArCH=CHtBu. The origin of the high efficiency in the quantum chain process of these ethylenes is discussed.
Enantioselective Synthesis of the Macrocyclic Pyrrolizidine Alkaloid Yamataimine
Authors: Niwa Haruki , Kunitani Kazuto , Nagoya Tomohiro , Yamada Kiyoyuki
Published: August 2006

Described is a short-step synthesis of optically active yamataimine, a 12-membered pyrrolizidine alkaloid of retronecine type. Methyl (1S,5R)-5-methyl-2-oxocyclopentanecarboxylate derived from (R)-(+)-pulegone was converted into the necic acid component required for the synthesis of yamataimine, in a nine-step sequence. Regioselective coupling of (+)-retronecine with the necic acid component via tin-mediated regioselective acylation followed by macrolactonization led to the first synthesis of (+)-yamataimine.
Stereoselective Syntheses of β-d-Ribonucleosides Catalyzed by the Combined Use of Silver Salts and Diphenyltin Sulfide or Lawesson’s Reagent
Authors: Shimomura Naoyuki , Matsutani Takafumi , Mukaiyama Teruaki
Published: August 2006

β-d-Ribonucleosides are stereoselectively synthesized in high yields from methyl 2,3,5-tri-O-benzoyl-β-d-ribofuranosyl carbonate and trimethylsilylated nucleoside bases by the use of [diphenyltin sulfide/silver salt] or [Lawesson’s reagent/silver salt] combined catalyst system under mild conditions.
Influence of a Neutral Terminal Ligand on the Structure and Redox Potential of the Hexamolybdenum(12+) Cluster Ion with Mixed Capping Ligand
Authors: Ebihara Masahiro , Kawamura Takashi , Isobe Kiyoshi , Saito Kazuo
Published: August 2006

A hexamolybdenum cluster complex of (n-Bu4N)2[(Mo6Br7S)Cl5(CH3CN)] was synthesized, and its crystal structure was determined. The Mo–Mo distance (2.637(7) Å) is similar to that of (Et4N)3[(Mo6Br7S)Cl6]. The oxidation potential is higher than that of [(Mo6Br7S)Cl6]3− by 0.21 V. The shift of potential may be caused by change of net charge of the cluster anion.
Voltammetric Behavior of Doubly-Bridged Dioxobis(dithiocarbamato)dimolybdenum(V) Complexes in Dichloromethane
Authors: Unoura Kei , Fukase Yoshihiro , Sato Yojiro , Chida Nobuyuki , Ogino Hiroshi
Published: August 2006

The electrochemical behavior of the di-μ-oxo, μ-oxo-μ-sulfido and di-μ-sulfido dinuclear molybdenum(V) complexes ligating a series of dithiocarbamates, [Mo2O4−nSn(R2dtc)2] (n = 0—2; R2dtc− = dithiocarbamate), was investigated in dichloromethane. Each complex undergoes a one-electron quasi-reversible reduction, followed by a homogeneous chemical reaction, except for the di-μ-sulfido complex [Mo2O2S2(Ph2dtc)2] which shows a complicated electrochemical process. The chemical stability of the one-electron reduction products of [Mo2O4−nSn(R2dtc)2] increases with increase in the number of bridging sulfides and in the electron-donating ability of the substituents on the dithiocarbamate ligands.
Synthesis of Indole from Aniline and Ethylene Glycol with Pb(II) Catalysts
Authors: Seto Takatoshi , Imanari Makoto
Published: August 2006

Various catalysts for the direct synthesis of indole from ethylene glycol and aniline have been reported. It was found that in Pb(II) catalysts, the selectivities of indole are greatly influenced by the ligands; some of these, such as PbI2-KI and PbI2-BaI2, provide indole in high yields. The catalytic activities of lead halides and binary systems were investigated regarding the effects of the ligands of Pb(II); recycling of the catalyst was tested.
Hydration Structure of Glycine Molecules in Concentrated Aqueous Solutions
Authors: Kameda Yasuo , Ebata Hidekazu , Usuki Takeshi , Uemura Osamu , Misawa Masakatsu
Published: August 2006

A radial distribution study for aqueous 5 mol% glycine solutions was carried out involving time-of-flight neutron diffraction measurements. An isotopic substitution technique was applied to both nitrogen and hydrogen atoms of the sample in order to determine the hydration structure around the amino group of the glycine molecules in an aqueous solution. It has been clarified that there exist 3.0 ± 0.6 water molecules coordinated to the amino group of a glycine molecule with intermolecular distances of rN···O = 2.85 ± 0.05 Å and rN···D = 3.25 ± 0.05 Å. These values suggest that a hydrogen bond is formed between the amino group of a glycine molecule and the nearest-neighbor water molecules in the aqueous glycine solution.
Theoretical Studies of Ammonia–Halogen and Methylamine–Halogen Complexes: Geometries, Harmonic Vibrational Frequencies and Their Infrared Intensities, and Excited States of Ammonia–Chlorine Monofluoride Complex
Authors: Kobayashi Takao , Matsuzawa Hidenori , Iwata Suehiro
Published: August 2006

The electron correlation effects for the geometry and stability of the ammonia–halogen (NH3–Cl2 and NH3–ClF) and the methylamine–halogen (CH3NH2–Cl2 and CH3NH2–ClF) are examined with ab initio molecular orbital calculations. The intermolecular distance, r(N–Cl), with the second order Møller–Presset (MP2) method are substantially shorten from the corresponding values with the self-consistent field (SCF) method. The halogen–halogen distance is slightly lengthened with the MP2 method from those determined with the SCF calculations. With the MP2 method the stabilization energies (ΔE) become large from those of the SCF calculation. Large high-frequency shifts for two intra CH3–NH2 coupled motions are found. The frequency shift and intensity change in the complex formation are mode-specific. The potential energy surfaces of the ground and low-lying excited states of NH3–ClF complex are calculated with the configuration interaction method. The first excited state is directly dissociated to NH3Cl + F. The charge-transfer excited state lies higher than the π* → σ* transition of ClF molecule, and is dissociated into NH3 + Cl + F. The NH3Cl (C3v symmetry), generated from the lowest excited states, is a stable radical. The reaction NH3Cl → NH2 + HCl is also endothermic, though the high barrier prevents the hydrogen shift to chlorine.
Conductometric Study of First and Second Ion Associations of Hexaamminecobalt(III) and Tris(ethylenediamine)cobalt(III) Ions with Sulfate Ions at Temperatures from 0 to 50 °C
Authors: Yokoyama Haruhiko , Kon Hiroyuki , Hiramoto Toshiaki , Shinozaki Kazuteru
Published: August 2006

Conductivity measurements for aqueous solutions of sulfates of hexaamminecobalt(III) ([Co(NH3)6]3+) and tris(ethylenediamine)cobalt(III) ([Co(en)3]3+) complexes have been made at various temperatures from 0 to 50 °C. The conductivity data were analyzed to obtain the first ion-association constants, but could not be completely explained if the second ion association (triple-ion formation between ion pair and sulfate ion) was not taken into consideration. The ion-association constants had minimum values at particular temperatures and were significantly larger than those predicted by electrostatic ion-association theories. Excess thermodynamic functions for the first ion association over the theoretical prediction were estimated and explained by assuming the ion–ion and ion–water hydrogen bonding. The excess entropy and enthalpy changes were significantly increased with increasing temperature, while the Gibbs free energy change was little dependent on temperature; these results were attributed to the destruction of bulk water structure with temperature. A similar contribution of hydrogen bonding was present in the second ion association besides the electrostatic interaction between the anion and the ion pair having a large dipole moment. The difference between [Co(NH3)6]3+ and [Co(en)3]3+ in hydrogen bonding is also discussed.
Adsorbed Hydrogen Effect on the Adsorption and Reactivity of N2 Molecules on Ru/MgO and Ru–Cs+/MgO: Hydrogen Dipole Effect Enhanced by Doped Cs+
Authors: Izumi Yasuo , Hoshikawa Masaki , Aika Ken-ichi
Published: August 2006

The effects of adsorbed hydrogen on the N2 adsorption and N2 isotope displacement rate on Ru/MgO and Ru–Cs+/MgO were investigated by FTIR. The H2 was found to be adsorbed dissociatively on on-top sites [1880w(sh), 1801w(sh), and 1717s cm−1], bridging sites [1550w and 1330w cm−1], and threefold sites [1120m and 933m cm−1] on Ru/MgO, and similarly on three kinds of adsorption sites on Ru–Cs+/MgO. The bridging hydrogen on Ru/MgO was thermally more stable than the other two. Molecular N2 could be adsorbed as an on-top form on Ru. By the small amount of preadsorbed H(a) [H(a)/Rusurf = 14%], the N2 isotope displacement rate 15N2(a) → 14N2(a) in 14N2 on Ru/MgO was largely reduced to 12%, and the reduction on Ru–Cs+/MgO was more serious (to 4%). The main factors of these reductions were interpreted as direct repulsion of H(a) and N2 on Ru/MgO and Ru-hydride dipole effect enhanced by doped Cs+ on Ru–Cs+/MgO. The common factors in N2 displacement reaction and the catalysis from N2 are discussed in terms of the hydrogen effect.
Relaxation of Polymer Chains Dissolved in the Liquid Phase of Membranes under a Pressure Gradient. III. Hydrogel Membranes of Poly(vinyl alcohol) and Poly(sodium l-glutamate)
Authors: Kiyono Ryotaro , Tasaka Masayasu , Nagura Masanobu
Published: August 2006

The dependence of the streaming potential across hydrogel membranes on time was measured. The gel membranes used were obtained by blending various amounts of poly(vinyl alcohol) and poly(sodium l-glutamate), which have different average molecular weights per cross-linked unit. The streaming potential increased rapidly just after applying a pressure difference and then increased gradually up to a steady-state value. The time dependence of the streaming potential was analyzed as the relaxation of the polymer chains dissolved in the liquid phase of the membrane. The relaxation for all the gel membranes consisted of a single component. The relaxation time was long if the gel had a large average molecular weight per cross-linked unit. The effects of cross-linking and the concentration of the external solution on the relaxation time are discussed.
Redox Potentials of Bromo- and Chloro(phthalocyaninato)bismuth(III) Complexes
Authors: Isago Hiroaki , Kagaya Yutaka
Published: August 2006

The redox potentials of the titled complexes, [Bi(pc)X] (pc2− = phthalocyaninate, C32H16N82−, and X = Cl− and Br−), in N,N-dimethylformamide solutions have been determined by cyclic voltammetry for the first time as phthalocyanine complexes of group-15 elements. The voltammograms of [Bi(pc)Cl] consisted of one oxidation (E1/2 = 0.36 V vs. ferrocene/ferricinium+) and two reduction couples (ca. −1.2 and ca. −1.0 V), each of which was a quasi-reversible one-electron process. The voltammograms of [Bi(pc)Br] were quite similar to those obtained with [Bi(pc)Cl], with the exception of the appearance of an additional irreversible anodic peak at 0.30 V, which could be attributable to the oxidation of non-ligand bromide, suggesting the dissociation of [Bi(pc)Br] into [Bi(pc)]+ and Br− in DMF. This is the first case in which [M(pc)X]-type (M = trivalent metal) complex dissociated into [M(pc)]+ and X− in solution.
Oxidation of Styrylpyridinium Dyes by Permanganate Ion
Authors: Dash Sukalyan , Mishra Bijay K
Published: August 2006

The oxidation of N-alkyl substituted styrylpyridinium bromides in both KMnO4 and cetyltrimethylammonium permanganate (CTAP) results in the formation of corresponding substituted benzaldehydes. The oxidation in aqueous medium is catalyzed by acid whereas in chloroform medium the reaction proceeds at neutral condition. However, the reaction proceeds through the same mechanism in both the media. The faster rate of oxidation in aqueous medium by KMnO4 than that in chloroform medium by CTAP has been rationalized through hydrophobic effect. The overall rate equation can be represented as rate = k[Substrate]1.5[Oxidant]−0.75 in aqueous medium and rate = k[Substrate]0.5[Oxidant]−1 in chloroform medium. From the substituent effect a transition state with low electron density at the olefinic carbon has been proposed.
Carbon Homologation of 1-Alkynes Using Alkoxymethyl Esters Mediated by Dichlorobis(trifluoromethanesulfonato)titanium(IV)
Authors: Tanabe Yoo
Published: August 2006

Various 1-alkynes were converted to 1-alkoxy-3-chloro-2-alkenes using alkoxymethyl esters and dichlorobis(trifluoromethanesulfonato)titanium(IV) [TiCl2(OTf)2, titanium(IV) bis(triflate)]. This carbon homologation proceeded in the case of not only simple 1-alkynes but also for several 3- or 4-dimethylcarbamoyloxy-, 5-benzoyloxy-, 5-phenoxycarbonyloxy-, and 5-methoxycarbonyloxy-1-alkynes. Among them, 3- and 4-dimethylcarbamoyloxy-1-butynes underwent the reaction without loss of their functionalities compared with the other oxy substrates. The stereoselectivity was Z predominant, especially in the case of the above mentioned 3-, 4-, and 5-oxy substituted 1-alkynes. Addition of TiCl4 to this system was somewhat effective for enhancing the Z ratios. Titanium(IV) bis(triflate) was the only effective catalyst among several Lewis acids such as AlCl3, TiCl4, SnCl4, ZnCl2, and Sn(OTf)2. As a functionalization of the obtained vinyl chloride, 3-chloro-4-dimethylcarbamoyloxy-1-methoxy-2-pentene was converted into the corresponding ketone using Hg(OCOCF3)2.
Total Synthesis of (+)-Paniculide A via a Catalytic Asymmetric Diels–Alder Reaction of a 3-Borylpropenoic Acid Derivative
Authors: Yamamoto Ichiro , Narasaka Koichi
Published: August 2006

(+)-Paniculide A, a highly oxidized sesquiterpene, has been synthesized enantioselectively starting from a cycloadduct, which was prepared from 3-(3-borylpropenoyl)-1,3-oxazolidin-2-one and 1-acetoxy-3-methyl-1,3-butadiene by a catalytic asymmetric Diels–Alder reaction.
Dehydrogenation of Ethylbenzene over Spinel Oxides
Authors: Jebarathinam N John , Eswaramoorthy M , Krishnasamy V
Published: August 2006

NiCr2O4, ZnCr2O4, CuCr2O4, CuAl2O4, and CuFe2O4 were prepared and characterized by XRD, DRS, and IR and by measurements of surface area, acidity, and electrical conductivity. XRD analysis indicates, that chromites, aluminate, and ferrite have normal, partially inversed, and inversed spinel structure, respectively. Electrical conductivity measurements show the existence of pair localized ions which are positive in chromites and negative both in aluminate and ferrite. The catalytic activity of chromites and aluminate are comparable and higher than that of ferrite in the conversion of ethylbenzene under all experimental conditions. However selectivity to styrene formation follows in the following order: ferrite > chromites > aluminate. The ratio of B/T (benzene/toluene) is more than unity over aluminate and less than unity over chromites and ferrite. Evolution of CO2 remains constant while that of C2H4 increased with increase in temperature keeping its formation always higher over aluminate. Measurements of acidity and basicity by TGA show the presence of basic sites on chromites, acidic sites on aluminate, and both sites on ferrite which influence the conversion of ethylbenzene to various products. The XRD pattern of spent catalysts indicate the appearance of metallic copper phase over CuCr2O4, CuFe2O4, and CuAl2O4. In the case of NiCr2O4 and ZnCr2O4 no significant difference is observed.
Comparison of the Oxidative Coupling Reactions of Benzene with Those of Methane of Rare Earth Oxide Catalysts
Authors: Sugiyama Shigeru , Ookubo Takashi , Shimodan Kazuaki , Hayashi Hiromu , Moffat John B
Published: August 2006

The oxidative coupling of benzene has been compared with that of methane on La2O3, CeO2, Pr6O11, and Sm2O3. At temperatures greater than 1048 K, the gas phase oxidative coupling of benzene appears to be predominant, while the oxidation occurs catalytically at 873 K. The conversion of benzene and of methane at 873 K follows the order of Sm2O3 > La2O3 > Pr6O11 > CeO2, suggesting that the abstraction of hydrogen from the aromatic and the saturated compounds depends primarily on the nature of the catalyst but not the reactant. Ancillary information has also been obtained from the results of XPS analyses of both fresh catalysts and those previously used in one of the reactions.
Reversed-Phase High-Performance Liquid-Chromatographic Behavior of Phthalic Acid and Terephthalic Acid in the pH Region around the Second pKa Values
Authors: Uno Bunji , Okumura Noriko , Kawai Satoshi
Published: August 2006

In a reversed-phase high-performance liquid-chromatographic analysis phthalic acid and terephthalic acid were observed as two clearly separated peaks with a mobile phase of pHs around the second pKa values involving the monoanion and dianion species.
A New Route for Protected Amino Alcohols from (R)-Glycidol. Copper(I) Mediated Alkylation of 4-Tosyloxymethyl-2-oxazolidinone
Authors: Iwama Seiji , Katsumura Shigeo
Published: August 2006

The reaction of (S)-4-tosyloxymethyl-2-oxazolidinone, which was synthesized from (R)-glycidol through (R)-4-benzoyloxymethyl-2-oxazolidinone, with various lithium dialkylcuprate(I)s in THF proceeded smoothly to afford the corresponding protected amino alcohol derivatives in good yield.
Schistosomiasis of the appendix in Maiduguri
Authors: Gali B M , Nggada H A , Eni E U
Published: August 2006

We retrospectively studied 27 histologically diagnosed cases of schistosomiasis of the appendix at the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital between January 1994 and December 2003. Of 1183 cases of appendices histologically examined, schistosomiasis was seen in 27 (2.3%).
TB patients' perspectives on integrated TB/HIV services in South Africa
Authors: Levin Lindsey , Irving Katharine , Dikgang Mogotsi , Punwasi Jayshina , Isaacs Mariam , Myer Landon
Published: August 2006

There are few data describing patients' attitudes towards the integration of antiretroviral therapy for HIV-infected patients into existing TB services. We investigated this issue among patients receiving TB treatment at a primary care facility in Cape Town, South Africa. Of 85 patients interviewed, the vast majority (92%, n = 78) stated they would be willing to attend an integrated TB/HIV service; perceived stigmatization of TB and HIV was a significant predictor of negative attitudes towards a combined TB/HIV programme (adjusted odds ratio, 19.90, P = 0.02). While integrated TB/HIV services appear generally acceptable in this setting, continuing efforts to combat stigmatization are necessary to ensure maximum uptake.
Pre- and post-directly observed treatment era in the management of TB: a teachiing hospital experience
Authors: Daniel O J
Published: August 2006

The study evaluated the effect of implementing the directly observed treatment (DOT) programme for the treatment of TB in a teaching hospital setting in Nigeria. A significant increase in treatment completion rate and reduction in mortality was observed. The expansion of the DOT programme is desirable to stem the increasing TB epidemic in the country.
Enterobius vermicularis causing symptoms of appendicitis in Nepal
Authors: Sah Shatrughan Prasad , Bhadani Punam Prasad
Published: August 2006

This study set out to determine the prevalence of Enterobius vermicularis in surgically removed appendices and to assess the possible relation of the parasite to acute appendicitis. All 624 surgically removed appendices received in the Department of Pathology, BPKIHS, Dharan, Nepal during 2½ years (August 1999–January 2002) were examined. E. vermicularis was identified in nine (1.62%) appendices from the patients with a clinical diagnosis of appendicitis. The parasite was most frequently seen in histologically normal appendices (6/71) and was rarely associated with histological change of acute appendicitis (3/539). No cases of E. vermicularis infestation occurred in appendices showing chronic inflammation or removed during the course of other surgical procedures. E. vermicularis was found more frequently in uninflamed and histologically normal appendices (8.45%) than those which were inflamed with histopathologic changes of acute appendicitis (0.56%). It may be a cause of symptoms resembling acute appendicitis although the mechanism for this does not involve mucosal invasion by the parasite.
Tele-treatment of patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)
Authors: Nijeweme-D'hollosy Wendy Oude , Janssen Emile P F , Veld Rianne M H A Huis In ‘T , Spoelstra Jos , Vollenbroek-Hutten Miriam M R , Hermens Hermie J
Published: August 2006

Management of patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) mainly consists of (psycho) social support and advice on activities of daily living. We evaluated the effects of tele-treatment in addition to the conventional method of care in four patients with ALS. A Web application was built with information about ALS and a link to the tele-treatment environment. The latter contained a chat room and a link to start personal computer (PC)-based videoconferencing with a rehabilitation physician. The effect on quality of care was evaluated by questionnaires and interviews. The interviews showed that patients were satisfied with tele-treatment and experienced a pleasant contact during teleconsultations. The rehabilitation physician experienced acceptance of tele-treatment by the patients and a decrease in the time needed for travelling. Tele-treatment was especially suitable for discussing the practical issues about ALS. On the other hand, psychosocial and emotional issues still needed to be discussed during traditional face-to-face contact. Therefore tele-treatment should only be given in addition to face-to-face contact, rather than as a replacement for it.
The use of information technologies for diagnosis in ophthalmology
Authors: Paunksnis Alvydas , Barzdziukas Valerijus , Jegelevicius Darius , Kurapkiene Skaidra , Dzemyda Gintautas
Published: August 2006

In 2003, a health IT programme for clinical decision support started in Lithuania. An initial goal was to create databases for ophthalmology images and to develop processing algorithms to extract diagnostically valuable information from images. We have investigated how vectors, consisting of the parameters derived from fundus images, are distributed and whether they form specific groups. When analysing the multidimensional patient data vectors, comprising all the 27 image parameters, it was impossible to separate the healthy eyes from the diseased ones. However, it was possible to simplify the system by eliminating redundant parameters and introducing new ones that represent a subset of parameters from the initial group. Thus it may prove possible to identify glaucoma using this system of parameters.
Chronic heart failure home-based management with a telecardiology system: A comparison between patients followed by general practitioners and by a cardiology department
Authors: Scalvini Simonetta , Zanelli Emanuela , Paletta Laura , Benigno Massimo , Domeneghini Diego , De Giuli Federica , Giordano Amerigo , Glisenti Fulvio
Published: August 2006

A group of patients with chronic heart failure (CHF) were followed by general practitioners (GPs) with a telecardiology system, and a second group of patients were followed by a home-based telemonitoring (HBT) protocol with medical and nursing supervision. The 212 GP patients were older than the 226 HBT patients, mostly women, with CHF secondary to chronic hypertension, less self-sufficient and with a non-optimized therapy. The mean number of telephone calls was 2.6 per patient in the GP group and 16.6 per patient in the HBT group (P<0.001). These preliminary data suggest the applicability and the efficacy of both management models for CHF patients.
Public perception of realtime information services for environmental monitoring and management of asthma
Authors: Bush Andrew , Karagiannis George E , Stamatopoulos Vasileios G , Kotis Takis
Published: August 2006

A questionnaire was distributed to asthma patients and relatives of paediatric patients in the Royal Brampton Hospital outpatient clinic in London during March 2003. The aim was to determine how well informed those affected by asthma and allergic diseases were, to find out the best medium for distributing relevant information (e.g. Internet, mobile phones) and to discover the type of information they wished to receive. A total of 298 questionnaires were distributed and all were completed (100% response rate). The level of education of the respondents was high and the majority lived outside the London area. The questionnaire showed that the respondents would like to be informed about a wide range of information related to monitoring and self-management of asthma. Avoidance measurements and prevention was the first choice, followed closely by information on substances, and the environment and allergies. The Internet was the preferred means of communication with an information service provider. The telephone was also popular, and more popular than the mobile phone. The majority of participants were not willing to pay for an information service.
Accident and emergency teleconsultation for primary care - a systematic review of technical feasibility, clinical effectiveness, cost effectiveness and level of local management
Authors: Brebner John A , Brebner Eileen M , Ruddick-Bracken Hugh
Published: August 2006

A systematic review of accident and emergency teleconsultation services was carried out. Studies (English language only) conducted worldwide and published between 1996 and 2003 were included. Evidence relating to technical feasibility, clinical effectiveness, cost effectiveness and level of local management was used as the main outcome measure. Thirty-one studies met the selection criteria. Only two studies were randomized controlled studies. All studies provided evidence that that the service was technically feasible. Of the studies, 97% suggested that the service was clinically effective; 48% (15) of the studies gave figures for the level of local management achieved. The range for local management was 35–100% with a mean of 76%. Only 23% of the studies provided evidence to suggest that the service was cost effective. The case for cost-effectiveness is far from proven and this area of research requires immediate attention if potential users are to be convinced of the value of telemedicine.
Telemedicine for diabetes support in family doctors’ practices: A pilot project
Authors: Bujnowska-Fedak Maria Magdalena , Puchała Edward , Steciwko Andrzej
Published: August 2006

A telemedicine support system for diabetes management was compared with standard monitoring of patients with diabetes. The telemedicine system was composed of two modules: a Patient Unit and a Medical Unit connected by the telecommunication network. The study involved 60 patients of family doctors’ practices in the Lower Silesia Region who were diagnosed with diabetes. There was no significant difference in haemoglobin A1c between telemonitoring and the traditional group of diabetic patients during the survey. The patients’ quality of life slightly improved in the telemonitoring (mean score 3.4) and the traditionally monitored group (mean score 3.2), but there was no significant difference between them. Most of the telemonitoring patients (75%) expressed the desire to continue with telemedicine support and nearly 60% of patients monitored with traditional methods wanted to be included in the telemedicine group. The system seems to be reliable, simple to use and friendly for the patients.
Artificial feedback for remotely supervised training of motor skills
Authors: Van Dijk Henk , Hermens Hermie J
Published: August 2006

Electromyographic (EMG) biofeedback can be used to train motor functions at a distance, which makes therapy at home a possibility. To enable patients to train properly without the presence of a therapist, artificial feedback is considered essential. We studied the combined effect of age and timing of artificial feedback on training muscle relaxation in 32 healthy subjects (younger: 20–35 years; older: 55–70 years). All subjects improved their performance significantly (F = 6.1, P < 0.001). The effect of different timing of feedback (feedback provided during or after performance) was similar in young and older adults. However, this conclusion should be interpreted with caution owing to the small sample size. It can be argued that the artificial feedback used was too complicated for older adults to interpret. When designing remotely supervised treatment programmes, one should consider carefully the way that artificial feedback is being applied as it may enable (elderly) subjects to train without the presence of a therapist.
A comprehensive e-education engine for a virtual diabetes centre
Authors: Thomson George A , Fernando Devaka J S , Bushby Phyllis , Meredith Suzanne , Thomson Anna K
Published: August 2006

It seems likely that the development of effective diabetes education for patients, carers and staff would prove highly cost-effective. Diabetes-e is an electronic diabetes encyclopaedia designed to provide comprehensive education to patients, carers (e.g. family, schools, care homes) and health professionals (specialist and non-specialist). In addition, educational media such as information leaflets (that can be printed during a consultation), streaming educational video and slide resource packs are available. Self-assessment questionnaires with feedback guide further education and facilitate targeted continuing professional development (CPD) for health professionals. The prototype has been developed with a particular emphasis on patient input. It is anticipated that Diabetes-e will be implemented across Central Nottinghamshire, including training of key personnel, by the end of 2005. The project has already gone live for insulin commencement.
A prospective case control study of the benefits of electronic discharge summaries
Authors: Kirby Jane , Barker Bethan , Fernando Devaka J S , Jose Mohan , Curtis Carmel , Goodchild Alison , Dickens Christopher , Olla Edward , Cooke Rachel , Idris Iskandar , Thomson George A
Published: August 2006

A system of electronic discharge summaries was developed. It replaced conventional discharge prescriptions and dictated discharge summaries. We conducted a prospective case-control study of 102 consecutive patients admitted to our hospital under the care of one consultant physician. Patients discharged after 1 December 2004 were discharged using the new computerised system (50 patients) while patients admitted under the same medical team, but to another ward were discharged using the conventional paper discharge system (52 patients). Patients in the electronic group and the conventional group were similar in age (mean 67 years versus 58 years, P>0.05) and duration of hospital stay (6 days versus 1 day, P>0.05). The mean time taken to produce an electronic discharge summary was immediate (0 days) which was significantly (P <0.0001) less than the mean time taken to produce a conventional discharge summary (80 days). Combining electronic discharge prescriptions with electronic summaries appears promising and merits further study.
Functional spliceosomal A complexes can be assembled in vitro in the absence of a penta-snRNP
Authors: Behzadnia Nastaran , Hartmuth Klaus , Will Cindy L. , Lührmann Reinhard
Published: August 2006

Two different models currently exist for the assembly pathway of the spliceosome, namely, the traditional model, in which spliceosomal snRNPs associate in a stepwise, ordered manner with the pre-mRNA, and the holospliceosome model, in which all spliceosomal snRNPs preassemble into a penta-snRNP complex. Here we have tested whether the spliceosomal A complex, which contains solely U1 and U2 snRNPs bound to pre-mRNA, is a functional, bona fide assembly intermediate. Significantly, A complexes affinity-purified from nuclear extract depleted of U4/U6 snRNPs (and thus unable to form a penta-snRNP) supported pre-mRNA splicing in nuclear extract depleted of U2 snRNPs, whereas naked pre-mRNA did not. Mixing experiments with purified A complexes and naked pre-mRNA additionally confirmed that under these conditions, A complexes do not form de novo. Thus, our studies demonstrate that holospliceosome formation is not a prerequisite for generating catalytically active spliceosomes and that, at least in vitro, the U1 and U2 snRNPs can functionally associate with the pre-mRNA, prior to and independent of the tri-snRNP. The ability to isolate functional spliceosomal A complexes paves the way to study in detail subsequent spliceosome assembly steps using purified components.
Pharmacokinetics of Mycophenolic Acid and Its Glucuronidated Metabolites in Stable Lung Transplant Recipients
Authors: Ting Lillian SL , Partovi Nilufar , Levy Robert D , Riggs K Wayne , Ensom Mary HH
Published: August 2006

Background:

Mycophenolic acid (MPA) is the active metabolite of mycophenolate mofetil, an immunosuppressive agent commonly used in solid organ transplantation. MPA is metabolized to the inactive metabolite 7-O-mycophenolic acid glucuronide (MPAG) and the active metabolite acyl glucuronide (AcMPAG). Pharmacokinetic profiling of MPA by determining AUC is a tool for determining drug exposure. Many studies, conducted primarily in kidney and some heart and liver transplant recipients, have shown wide interpatient variability in MPA's pharmacokinetic parameters. There have been few studies in the lung transplant group and, even though the lung is not involved in drug elimination, these patients may have different MPA pharmacokinetic characteristics.

Objective:

To characterize the pharmacokinetic parameters and metabolic ratios of MPA in stable adult lung transplant recipients.

Methods:

In an open-label manner, lung transplant recipients were recruited. Blood samples were obtained at 0, 0.3, 0.6, 1, 1.5, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, and 12 hours postdose. Plasma was separated and acidified for drug concentration analysis (MPA, MPAG, AcMPAG) by an HPLC–ultraviolet detection method. Conventional pharmacokinetic parameters were determined via noncompartmental methods.

Results:

There was large interpatient variability in all pharmacokinetic parameters of MPA, MPAG, and AcMPAG. Similar variability was observed after stratifying patients into concomitant medication groups: cyclosporine and tacrolimus. There was a trend for the tacrolimus group to have a higher dose-normalized AUC, higher AUC, lower apparent clearance, and lower AUC ratio of AcMPAG/MPA compared with the cyclosporine group. In addition, the cyclosporine group had a lower minimum concentration and higher AUC ratio of MPAG/MPA than did the tacrolimus group (p < 0.05).

Conclusions:

Because of the large interpatient variability in the pharmacokinetic parameters of MPA, MPAG, and AcMPAG, therapeutic drug monitoring of MPA and its metabolites in lung transplant recipients may be beneficial.
Evaluation of Clinical Pharmacy Services in a Hematology/Oncology Outpatient Setting
Authors: Shah Sachin , Dowell Jonathan , Greene Shane
Published: August 2006

Background:

The Veterans Affairs North Texas Health Care System in Dallas, TX, provides a unique opportunity for clinical pharmacists to work as providers. Even though clinical pharmacists are actively involved in patient care, many of their efforts remain undocumented, resulting in an underestimation of the importance of their services and missed opportunities for improvements and new directions.

Objective:

To document and evaluate the services of a hematology/oncology clinical pharmacy in the outpatient setting.

Methods:

Pendragon Forms 3.2 software was used to design the documentation template. The template was designed to collect diagnoses, supportive care issues, drug-specific interventions, and prescriptions written. This template was uploaded to the personal digital assistant (PDA) for documentation. Patient-specific information was documented in a password-protected PDA. Data collected from November 1, 2002, to October 31, 2003, were retrospectively analyzed.

Results:

Clinical pharmacists were involved in 423 patient visits for chemotherapy follow-up or disease management. Cancer diagnoses included colorectal (n = 99), multiple myeloma (59), non–small cell lung (56), chronic lymphocytic leukemia (44), myelodysplastic syndromes (22), and chronic myelogenous leukemia (19). During the 423 patient visits, 342 supportive care issues were addressed including anemia (34%), pain management (22%), constipation/diarrhea (15%), and nausea/vomiting (8%). Major drug-specific interventions included drug addition (41%), discontinuation (23%), and adjustment (21%). Four hundred forty-five prescriptions were filled, of which 181 were new and 150 were refilled.

Conclusions:

This is the first study, as of July 25, 2006, to document considerable contribution of an outpatient clinical pharmacist in direct cancer patient care. Although the disease management and supportive care issues addressed here may differ based on institution and patient population, the results of our study show that clinical pharmacists have ever-growing roles in the management of these patients.
Attitudes and Emotions of German Police Officers towards the Mentally Ill
Authors: Litzcke Sven Max
Published: August 2006

Police officers' attitudes and emotions regarding the mentally ill are examined. The results are compared with a socio-demographically similar sample of non-police officers. 207 participants were asked about their attitudes and emotions towards the mentally ill. Of the participants, 105 were police officers of Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg (Germany), 102 were civil servants. Social distance is greater when there is a concrete visual representation of the mentally ill person, ie in the movie clips, than when it is measured abstractly, which suggests that pencil-and-paper studies underestimate the extent of social distance towards the mentally ill. Police officers and non-police officers have similar attitudes towards the mentally ill. An exception is social distance towards mental patients. Police officers show a greater social distance towards the mentally ill, and a smaller social distance towards people who are emotionally upset but mentally healthy, than non-police officers. Frequently emotional reactions to mental patients are compassion, discomfort and the desire to help. Police officers feel significantly less insecure towards the mentally ill than non-police officers.
Unravelling the ‘Velcro Effect’: Is Deterring Assaults against the Police Indicative of a More Aggressive Style of Policing?
Authors: Buttle John. W.
Published: August 2006

The ‘Velcro Effect’ was proposed to explain how the mere threat of using incapacitant sprays deterred assaults against the police (Kaminski, Edwards, & Johnson, 1998). The deterrent capabilities of CS spray were used to legitimise its deployment against a background of critical media coverage. However, what Kaminski et al. failed to consider is that batons — and the police uniform — also deter assaults against the police. This suggests an alternative explanation for the ability to deter assaults against the police that centres on the actions of police officers rather than the characteristics ascribed to any single weapon. Based on a study of officers in one of the 43 police forces in England and Wales, this article argues that it is the officer's ability to appear competent and ready to fight that deters would-be assailants. Furthermore, it is argued that in order to deter would-be assailants, police officers have to adopt an aggressive demeanour that is far removed from that of the traditional image associated with routine policing in England and Wales.
Cops, Computers and the Curriculum
Authors: McCoy Mark R.
Published: August 2006

Computers have become an integral tool for use by police officers in performing their daily duties. However, little has been done to incorporate training on the use of these important tools in basic police academies and in-service training. This article details the need for integration of computer training in curricula of police academies to improve computer literacy among police officers. Models for successful curriculum integration are discussed and recommendations are provided for reducing the barriers to computer related training.
Stop and Search in 2004: A Survey of Police Officer Views and Experiences
Authors: Qureshi Faiza , Farrell Graham
Published: August 2006

The capacity to stop and search citizens is a key part of the police crime reduction repertoire. This study presents findings from a survey of all police officers at one police station in a southern English town in July 2004, looking at stop and search experiences plus a glimpse at officer views on the Criminal Justice Act 2003. The Act introduced a ‘major extension to the existing powers of stop and search’ (Home Office (as cited in Keogh, 2004)). However, fewer than half of officers reported having received any formal training on the changes to stop and search procedure, and fewer than 40 per cent of officers believed that changes introduced by the Criminal Justice Act 2003 had made stop and search ‘better’ from their perspective. Overall, and consistent with other research, a small proportion of officers made a disproportionate amount of each of stops, searches and arrests, which could have implications for training and resource allocation. Suggestions are made for further research to examine the impact of the Criminal Justice Act 2003 upon police stops and searches, and for research to examine crime reduction effectiveness.
Slit Proteins Regulate Distinct Aspects of Retinal Ganglion Cell Axon Guidance within Dorsal and Ventral Retina
Authors: Thompson Hannah , Camand Olivier , Barker David , Erskine Lynda
Published: August 2006

An early step in the formation of the optic pathway is the directed extension of retinal ganglion cell (RGC) axons into the optic fiber layer (OFL) of the retina in which they project toward the optic disc. Using analysis of knock-out mice andin vitroassays, we found that, in the mammalian retina, Slit1 and Slit2, known chemorepellents for RGC axons, regulate distinct aspects of intraretinal pathfinding in different regions of the retina. In ventral and, to a much lesser extent, dorsal retina, Slits help restrict RGC axons to the OFL. Additionally, within dorsal retina exclusively, Slit2 also regulates the initial polarity of outgrowth from recently differentiated RGCs located in the retinal periphery. This regional specificity occurs despite the fact that Slits are expressed throughout the retina, and both dorsal and ventral RGCs are responsive to Slits. The gross morphology and layering of the retina of theslit-deficient retinas is normal, demonstrating that these distinct guidance defects are not the result of changes in the organization of the tissue. Although displaced or disorganized, the aberrant axons within both dorsal and ventral retina exit the eye. We also have found that the lens, which because of its peripheral location within the developing eye is ideally located to influence the initial direction of RGC axon outgrowth, secretes Slit2, suggesting this is the source of Slit regulating OFL development. These data demonstrate clearly that multiple mechanisms exist in the retina for axon guidance of which Slits are an important component.