bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Improvement and Emergence of Insulin Restriction in Women With Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Goebel-Fabbri Ann E. , Anderson Barbara J. , Fikkan Janna , Franko Debra L. , Pearson Kimberly , Weinger Katie
Published: January 2011

OBJECTIVE

To determine the distinguishing characteristics of women who report stopping insulin restriction at 11 years of follow-up from those continuing to endorse insulin restriction as well as those characteristics differing in patients who continue to use insulin appropriately from new insulin restrictors.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

This is an 11-year follow-up study of 207 women with type 1 diabetes. Insulin restriction, diabetes self-care behaviors, diabetes-specific distress, and psychiatric and eating disorder symptoms were assessed using self-report surveys.

RESULTS

Of the original sample, 57% participated in the follow-up study. Mean age was 44 ± 12 years, diabetes duration was 28 ± 11 years, and A1C was 7.9 ± 1.3%. At follow-up, 20 of 60 baseline insulin restrictors had stopped restriction. Women who stopped reported improved diabetes self-care and distress, fewer problems with diabetes self-management, and lower levels of psychologic distress and eating disorder symptoms. Logistic regression indicated that lower levels of fear of weight gain with improved blood glucose and fewer problems with diabetes self-management predicted stopping restriction. At follow-up, 34 women (23%) reported new restriction, and a larger proportion of new insulin restrictors, relative to nonrestrictors, endorsed fear of weight gain with improved blood glucose.

CONCLUSIONS

Findings indicate that fear of weight gain associated with improved blood glucose and problems with diabetes self-care are core issues related to both the emergence and resolution of insulin restriction. Greater attention to these concerns may help treatment teams to better meet the unique treatment needs of women struggling with insulin restriction.
Monitoring of Individual Needs in Diabetes (MIND): Baseline Data From the Cross-National Diabetes Attitudes, Wishes, and Needs (DAWN) MIND Study
Authors: Snoek Frank J. , Kersch Nancy Y.A. , Eldrup Ebbe , Harman-Boehm Ilana , Hermanns Norbert , Kokoszka Andrzej , Matthews David R. , McGuire Brian E. , Pibernik-OkanoviĆ Mirjana , Singer Joelle , de Wit Maartje , Skovlund Søren E.
Published: January 2011

OBJECTIVE

To test the feasibility and impact of implementing the computer-assisted Monitoring of Individual Needs in Diabetes (MIND) procedure, which is aimed at improving recognition and management of the psychological needs of diabetic patients in routine care.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

The MIND study was implemented in diabetes clinics across eight countries as part of the annual review. The computerized assessment covered emotional well-being (World Health Organization 5 Well-Being Index), diabetes-related distress (Problem Areas in Diabetes), life events, and the patient’s agenda. Medical data were retrieved from the charts, and agreed-upon actions were recorded.

RESULTS

Of 1,567 patients monitored using the MIND, 24.9% had either likely depression or high diabetes-related distress; 5.4% had both. Over 80% of these patients were newly identified cases, and 41% of patients with depression were referred to a mental health professional.

CONCLUSIONS

Monitoring of well-being and diabetes-related distress as part of routine diabetes care is feasible and helps to identify and discuss unmet psychosocial needs.
Low-Dose Aspirin Therapy in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes and Reduced Glomerular Filtration Rate
Authors: Saito Yoshihiko , Morimoto Takeshi , Ogawa Hisao , Nakayama Masafumi , Uemura Shiro , Doi Naofumi , Jinnouchi Hideaki , Waki Masako , Soejima Hirofumi , Sugiyama Seigo , Okada Sadanori , Akai Yasuhiro ,   on behalf of the Japanese Primary Prevention of Atherosclerosis With Aspirin for Diabetes (JPAD) Trial Investigators
Published: January 2011

OBJECTIVE

Type 2 diabetes accompanied by renal damage is a strong risk factor for atherosclerotic events. The purpose of this study was to investigate the efficacy of low-dose aspirin therapy on primary prevention of atherosclerotic events in patients with type 2 diabetes and coexisting renal dysfunction.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

The Japanese Primary Prevention of Atherosclerosis With Aspirin for Diabetes (JPAD) trial was a prospective, randomized, open-label trial conducted throughout Japan that enrolled 2,539 type 2 diabetic patients without a history of atherosclerotic diseases. Patients were assigned to the aspirin group (81 mg/day or 100 mg/day) or the nonaspirin group and followed for a median of 4.37 years. The primary end points were atherosclerotic events of fatal and nonfatal ischemic heart disease, stroke, and peripheral arterial disease.

RESULTS

The analysis included 2,523 patients who had serum creatinine measured. In 1,373 patients with baseline estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) 60–89 mL/min/1.73 m2, the incidence of primary end points was significantly lower in the aspirin group than in the nonaspirin group (aspirin, 30/661; nonaspirin, 55/712; hazard ratio 0.57 [95% CI 0.36–0.88]; P = 0.011). Low-dose aspirin therapy did not reduce primary end points in patients with eGFR ≥90 mL/min/1.73 m2 (aspirin, 9/248; nonaspirin, 11/270; 0.94 [0.38–2.3]) or those with eGFR <60 mL/min/1.73 m2 (aspirin, 29/342; nonaspirin, 19/290; 1.3 [0.76–2.4]). The Cox proportional hazard model demonstrated a significant interaction between mild renal dysfunction (eGFR 60–89 mL/min/1.73 m2) and aspirin (P = 0.02).

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest a differential effect of low-dose aspirin therapy in diabetic patients with eGFR 60–89 mL/min/1.73 m2.
The DURAbility of Basal versus Lispro mix 75/25 insulin Efficacy (DURABLE) Trial
Authors: Buse John B. , Wolffenbuttel Bruce H.R. , Herman William H. , Hippler Stephen , Martin Sherry A. , Jiang Honghua H. , Shenouda Sylvia K. , Fahrbach Jessie L.
Published: January 2011

OBJECTIVE

This study compared the durability of glycemic control of twice-daily insulin lispro mix 75/25 (LM75/25: 75% insulin lispro protamine suspension/25% lispro) and once-daily insulin glargine, added to oral antihyperglycemic drugs in type 2 diabetes patients.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

During the initiation phase, patients were randomized to LM75/25 or glargine. After 6 months, patients with A1C ≤7.0% advanced to the maintenance phase for ≤24 months. The primary objective was the between-group comparison of duration of maintaining the A1C goal.

RESULTS

Of 900 patients receiving LM75/25 and 918 patients receiving glargine who completed initiation, 473 and 419, respectively, had A1C ≤7.0% and continued into maintenance. Baseline characteristics except age were similar in this group. Median time of maintaining the A1C goal was 16.8 months for LM75/25 (95% CI 14.0–19.7) and 14.4 months for glargine (95% CI 13.4–16.8; P = 0.040). A1C goal was maintained in 202 LM75/25-treated patients (43%) and in 147 glargine-treated patients (35%; P = 0.006). No differences were observed in overall, nocturnal, or severe hypoglycemia. LM75/25 patients had higher total daily insulin dose (0.45 ± 0.21 vs. 0.37 ± 0.21 units/kg/day) and more weight gain (5.4 ± 5.8 vs. 3.7 ± 5.6 kg) from baseline. Patients taking LM75/25 and glargine with lower baseline A1C levels were more likely to maintain the A1C goal (P = 0.043 and P < 0.001, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

A modestly longer durability of glycemic control was achieved with LM75/25 compared with glargine. Patients with lower baseline A1C levels were more likely to maintain the goal, supporting the concept of earlier insulin initiation.
Structured Self-Monitoring of Blood Glucose Significantly Reduces A1C Levels in Poorly Controlled, Noninsulin-Treated Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Polonsky William H. , Fisher Lawrence , Schikman Charles H. , Hinnen Deborah A. , Parkin Christopher G. , Jelsovsky Zhihong , Petersen Bettina , Schweitzer Matthias , Wagner Robin S.
Published: January 2011

OBJECTIVE

To assess the effectiveness of structured blood glucose testing in poorly controlled, noninsulin-treated type 2 diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

This 12-month, prospective, cluster-randomized, multicenter study recruited 483 poorly controlled (A1C ≥7.5%), insulin-naïve type 2 diabetic subjects from 34 primary care practices in the U.S. Practices were randomized to an active control group (ACG) with enhanced usual care or a structured testing group (STG) with enhanced usual care and at least quarterly use of structured self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG). STG patients and physicians were trained to use a paper tool to collect/interpret 7-point glucose profiles over 3 consecutive days. The primary end point was A1C level measured at 12 months.

RESULTS

The 12-month intent-to-treat analysis (ACG, n = 227; STG, n = 256) showed significantly greater reductions in mean (SE) A1C in the STG compared with the ACG: −1.2% (0.09) vs. −0.9% (0.10); Δ = −0.3%; P = 0.04. Per protocol analysis (ACG, n = 161; STG, n = 130) showed even greater mean (SE) A1C reductions in the STG compared with the ACG: −1.3% (0.11) vs. −0.8% (0.11); Δ = −0.5%; P < 0.003. Significantly more STG patients received a treatment change recommendation at the month 1 visit compared with ACG patients, regardless of the patient’s initial baseline A1C level: 179 (75.5%) vs. 61 (28.0%); <0.0001. Both STG and ACG patients displayed significant (P < 0.0001) improvements in general well-being (GWB).

CONCLUSIONS

Appropriate use of structured SMBG significantly improves glycemic control and facilitates more timely/aggressive treatment changes in noninsulin-treated type 2 diabetes without decreasing GWB.
Use of Dipeptidyl Peptidase-4 Inhibitors and the Reporting of Infections: A Disproportionality Analysis in the World Health Organization VigiBase
Authors: Willemen Marjolein J. , Mantel-Teeuwisse Aukje K. , Straus Sabine M. , Meyboom Ron H. , Egberts Toine C. , Leufkens Hubert G.
Published: January 2011

OBJECTIVE

Dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors are a new class of antidiabetic drugs. They inactivate incretin hormones but also have many other effects throughout the body, among which are effects on the immune system. This might result in an increased infection risk. This study assessed the association between use of DPP-4 inhibitors and the reporting of infections.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

A nested case-control was conducted using VigiBase, the World Health Organization-Adverse Drug Reactions (WHO-ADR) database. The base cohort consisted of ADRs for antidiabetic drugs (Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical code A10). Cases were defined as ADRs of infection according to the Medical Dictionary for Regulatory Activities (MedDRA) classification system. All other ADRs were considered controls. Reporting odds ratios (RORs) were calculated to estimate the strength of the association between different classes of antidiabetic drugs and the reporting of infections.

RESULTS

We identified 305,415 suspected ADRs involving antidiabetic drugs in 106,469 case reports, of which 8,083 involved DPP-4 inhibitors monotherapy. Overall, the reporting of infections was higher for patients using DPP-4 inhibitors compared with users of biguanides (ROR 2.3 [95% CI 1.9–2.7]). Reporting of upper respiratory tract infections (ROR 12.3 [95% CI 8.6–17.5]) was significantly associated with use of DPP-4 inhibitors.

CONCLUSIONS

This study indicates an increased reporting of infections, in particular upper respiratory tract infections, for users of DPP-4 inhibitors compared with users of other antidiabetic drugs. However, the limitations of spontaneous reporting systems (e.g., underreporting, the Weber-effect, reporting bias) should be taken into account. Therefore, further research is needed to evaluate this suspicion and the underlying mechanism.
Illness and Treatment Perceptions Are Associated With Adherence to Medications, Diet, and Exercise in Diabetic Patients
Authors: Broadbent Elizabeth , Donkin Liesje , Stroh Julia C.
Published: January 2011

OBJECTIVE

To investigate diabetic patients’ perceptions of illness and treatments, and explore relationships to adherence and blood glucose control.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Forty-nine type 1 and one hundred and eight type 2 diabetic patients completed questionnaires assessing illness perceptions, treatment beliefs, and adherence to medications, diet, and exercise. Blood glucose control was assessed from blood tests.

RESULTS

Patients rated medication more important than diet and exercise, and reported higher adherence to medications. Insulin was perceived as more helpful for diabetes, while antihypertensives and cholesterol medication were perceived more helpful for preventing heart problems. Perceptions were associated with adherence to insulin, cholesterol and antihypertensive medications, exercise, and diet. Blood glucose control in type 1 diabetic patients was associated with insulin adherence and perceived personal control, and in type 2 diabetic patients to being prescribed insulin or antihypertensives, and perceived personal control.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients hold specific mental models about diabetes treatments, which are associated with adherence.
Breastfeeding in Women With Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Sparud-Lundin Carina , Wennergren Margareta , Elfvin Anders , Berg Marie
Published: January 2011

OBJECTIVE

To identify predictive factors for initiation and maintenance of breastfeeding with a focus on mothers with type 1 diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

This is a prospective observation survey, using a case-control design, comparing the outcomes of 108 mothers with type 1 diabetes with 104 mothers without diabetes that were matched for parity and gestational age. Mother and infant outcomes were collected from medical records and through telephone interviews 2 and 6 months after delivery. Predictive factors were calculated by logistic regression analyses.

RESULTS

Mothers with diabetes were less likely to partly or exclusively breastfeed their children at 2 months (OR 0.42 [95% CI 0.18–0.96], P = 0.041) and 6 months (0.50 [0.27–0.90], P = 0.022) than mothers without diabetes. On multivariable analysis, type 1 diabetes did not remain an independent predictive factor. Instead, higher education level and breastfeeding at discharge from hospital were predictive factors for breastfeeding at 2 months postpartum. These variables as well as delivery >37 weeks and early breastfeeding predicted breastfeeding 6 months postpartum.

CONCLUSIONS

Factors associated with maternal diabetes, such as problems with establishing breastfeeding in the early postpartum period, affects the likelihood of long-term breastfeeding.
Sound of Silence
Authors: Ramchandra VG
Published: January 2011

DOI: 10.3126/hren.v8i3.4204Health Renaissance, September-December 2010; Vol 8 (No.3);139-141
Nerve Conduction Study in Healthy Individuals: a Gender Based Study
Authors: Thakur Dilip , Paudel BH , Bajaj BK , Jha CB
Published: January 2011

Background: Nerve conduction study (NCS) assesses peripheral nerve functions and has clinical implication. Objective: To study effect of gender on NCS variables in healthy adults. Settings and Design: Department of Physiology, B.P. Koirala Institute of Health Sciences, Dharan, Nepal. Material and Method: The study was done in 34 (m=19, 32±11 years; f=15, 32±12 years) consenting healthy adults. The compound muscle action potential (CMAP) and sensory nerve action potential (SNAP) were recorded. Statistical analysis: The effect of gender on NCS variables was analyzed using Mann Whitney U test. Results: Male vs. female: males had increased CMAP and F-wave latencies (ms) in all tested motor nerves. CMAP duration (ms) was longer in males (p<0.05) in all tested motor nerves: right median (5.9±1.3 vs. 4.92±0.65), left median (5.54±0.91 vs. 4.72±0.57), right ulnar (5.55±1.01 vs. 4.56±0.59), left ulnar (5.71±0.97 vs. 4.64±0.51), right tibial (6.58±0.95 vs. 5.95±0.71), and left tibial (6.98±1.31 vs. 6.21±0.78). Females showed higher sural SNAP amplitude (µV) (23.26±9.23 vs. 15.94±8.42). SNAP duration (ms) was longer in males: right ulnar (1.16±0.19 vs. 1.03±0.06). SNAP latencies (ms) were also longer in males: right sural (2.61±0.44 vs. 2.21±0.36). Males had greater height (165.9±4.74 vs. 149.3±7.24) and weight (60.4±7.2 vs. 53±7.2).Conclusion: Gender has definite effects on NCS variables. Males had higher CMAP amplitude, longer latencies and duration. SNAP latencies and duration were longer in males whereas amplitude was higher in females. Without adjustment for these factors, the sensitivity and specificity of NCS will decrease when using the same reference data in patients with different gender. Keywords: compound muscle action potential; gender; nerve conduction study; sensory nerve action potential DOI: 10.3126/hren.v8i3.4210Health Renaissance, September-December 2010; Vol 8 (No.3);169-175
People Living with HIV: Perceived Stress, Coping mechanism and Quality of life
Authors: Deo Binod Kumar , Shyangwa M Pramod , Shrestha Sarvagya N , Singh Jamnotri , Amaya Maw Naing
Published: January 2011

Background: People living with HIV appraise life as stressful. Such perception leads to maladaptive coping mechanisms which affect quality of life. Nepal has entered the stage of a 'concentrated' HIV epidemic. Objective: To assess level of stress among HIV positive persons, to find out their coping strategies, to appraise quality of life. Methodology: A cross sectional, descriptive study was conducted in different places namely Kathmandu, Pokhara, Bharatpur, Bhairawa, Nepalgunj and Dharan with quota sample 100,80,80,80,80 respectively. Snow bowling technique was used to collect 500 cases of age range 20-50 years over six months duration in 2006. Results: Of total 500;(55.4%) were male, 73.0% married and mainly from age range 25-32; of them 80.0% literate, 69.0% farmer. One third were sharing needles while 43.5% indulged in unsafe sex. About 53.0% persons reported in good financial condition as supported by different non governmental and international agencies while the main problems faced were opportunistic infection and social stigma. The average score on perceived stress scale was 25.5 out of 56; main coping mechanisms were planning for future, positive reinterpretation, growth and active coping. Over all quality of life was good among 31.0%, while physical health 58.0%, psychological health 43.0%, social relationship 44.0% and environment condition 32.0% was reported as good. Conclusion: Mostly married, literate, in age range20-35, usual mode of transmission was unsafe sex, average stressed, planning, active coping mechanisms and one third subjects expressed over all quality of life as good. Keywords: HIV; perceived stress; coping mechanisms; quality of life. DOI: 10.3126/hren.v8i3.4212Health Renaissance, September-December 2010; Vol 8 (No.3);181-185
Psychiatric Morbidity Pattern in a Health Camp in Eastern Nepal
Authors: Shakya Dhana Ratna
Published: January 2011

Introduction: Health camp is a strategy of mental health service delivery. The present study was conducted to find out psychiatric morbidity pattern seen in camp in a village of eastern Nepal. Method: Information about all relevent variables of the cases seen by a psychiatrist team in a specialty camp were recorded in a particular record-book. We used the ICD-10 for the diagnosis of mental and behavioral disorders. The data recorded were analysed using descriptive statistical measures. Result: Of 160 cases analysed, 106 (66.25%) were female. The most common age groups were 35-39 (20%), 20-24 (11.25%) and 40-44 (11.25%). The most common psychiatric diagnoses in the Nepalese camp setting were depressive, somatoform and anxiety disorders. Primary headaches and seizure disorders were also common. Four cases (2.5%) were acutely severe and were in the immediate need of intervention. Conclusion: Most common psychiatric diagnoses were mood, somatoform and anxiety disorders in Nepalese camp setting. Some require urgent attention and admission. This indicates a need for regular mental health camp programs in our set up. Keywords: Health camp; mental health service; Nepal; Psychiatric morbidity DOI: 10.3126/hren.v8i3.4213Health Renaissance, September-December 2010; Vol 8 (No.3);186-191
Dorsal Approach for Open Reduction of Complex Metacarpo-phalangeal Joint Dislocations
Authors: Chaudhury Pushupati , Kam N , Shrestha BP , Khanal GP , Maharjan R
Published: January 2011

Key words: Complex; Dorsal approach; Metacarpophalangeal JointDOI: 10.3126/hren.v8i3.4214Health Renaissance, September-December 2010; Vol 8 (No.3);192-195
Ethno-cultural diversity in home care work in Canada
Authors: Martin-Matthews Anne , Sims-Gould Joanie , Naslund John
Published: January 2011

Worldwide, immigrant workers are responsible for much of the care provided to elderly people who require assistance with personal care and with activities of daily living. This article examines the characteristics of immigrant home care workers, and the ways in which they differ from non-migrant care workers in Canada. It considers circumstances wherein the labor of care is framed by ethno-cultural diversity between client and worker, interactions that reflect the character of this ethno-cultural diversity, and the strategies employed by workers to address issues related to this diversity. Findings from a mixed methods study of 118 workers in the metropolitan area of Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, indicate that while the discriminatory context surrounding migrant home care workers persists, issues of ethno-cultural diversity in relationships are complex, and can also involve non-foreign born workers.

Multi-cultural home care is not always framed in a negative context, and there often are positive aspects.
A Maximum Entropy Modelling of the Rain Drop Size Distribution
Authors: Checa Ramiro , Tapiador Francisco J.
Published: January 2011

This paper presents a maximum entropy approach to Rain Drop Size Distribution (RDSD) modelling. It is shown that this approach allows (1) to use a physically consistent rationale to select a particular probability density function (pdf) (2) to provide an alternative method for parameter estimation based on expectations of the population instead of sample moments and (3) to develop a progressive method of modelling by updating the pdf as new empirical information becomes available. The method is illustrated with both synthetic and real RDSD data, the latest coming from a laser disdrometer network specifically designed to measure the spatial variability of the RDSD.
CCS Activities Being Performed by the U.S. DOE
Authors: Dressel Brian , Deel Dawn , Rodosta Traci , Plasynski Sean , Litynski John , Myer Larry
Published: January 2011

The United States Department of Energy (DOE) is the lead federal agency for the development and deployment of carbon sequestration technologies. Its mission includes promoting scientific and technological innovations and transfer of knowledge for safe and permanent storage of CO2 in the subsurface. To accomplish its mission, DOE is characterizing and classifying potential geologic storage reservoirs in basins throughout the U.S. and Canada, and developing best practices for project developers, to help ensure the safety of future geologic storage projects. DOE’s Carbon Sequestration Program, Regional Carbon Sequestration Partnership (RCSP) Initiative, administered by the National Energy Technology Laboratory (NETL), is identifying, characterizing, and testing potential injection formations. The RCSP Initiative consists of collaborations among government, industry, universities, and international organizations. Through this collaborative effort, a series of integrated knowledge-based tools have been developed to help potential sequestration project developers. They are the Carbon Sequestration Atlas of the United States and Canada, National Carbon Sequestration Database and Geographic System (NATCARB), and best practice manuals for CCS including Depositional Reservoir Classification for CO2; Public Outreach and Education for Carbon Storage Projects; Monitoring, Verification, and Accounting of CO2 Stored in Deep Geologic Formation; Site Screening, Site Selection, and Initial Characterization of CO2 Storage in Deep Geologic Formations. DOE’s future research will help with refinement of these tools and additional best practice manuals (BPM) which focus on other technical aspects of project development.
The Effectiveness of Tobacco Marketing Regulations on Reducing Smokers’ Exposure to Advertising and Promotion: Findings from the International Tobacco Control (ITC) Four Country Survey
Authors: Kasza Karin A. , Hyland Andrew J. , Brown Abraham , Siahpush Mohammad , Yong Hua-Hie , McNeill Ann D. , Li Lin , Cummings K. Michael
Published: January 2011

Exposure to tobacco product marketing promotes the initiation, continuation, and reuptake of cigarette smoking and as a result the World Health Organization Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO FCTC) has called upon member Parties to enact comprehensive bans on tobacco advertising and promotion. This study examines the immediate and long term effectiveness of advertising restrictions enacted in different countries on exposure to different forms of product marketing, and examines differences in exposure across different socioeconomic status (SES) groups. Nationally representative data from the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and the United States, collected from adult smokers between 2002 and 2008 using the International Tobacco Control Four Country Survey (ITC-4), were used in this study (N = 21,615). In light of the specific marketing regulation changes that occurred during the course of this study period, changes in awareness of tobacco marketing via various channels were assessed for each country, and for different SES groups within countries. Tobacco marketing regulations, once implemented, were associated with significant reductions in smokers’ reported awareness of pro-smoking cues, and the observed reductions were greatest immediately following the enactment of regulations. Changes in reported awareness were generally the same across different SES groups, although some exceptions were noted. While tobacco marketing regulations have been effective in reducing exposure to certain types of product marketing there still remain gaps, especially with regard to in-store marketing and price promotions.
(Benzoylamino)methyl 4-Acetyloxybenzoate
Authors: Popovski Emil , Mladenovska Kristina
Published: January 2011

(Benzoylamino)methyl 4-acetyloxybenzoate (3) was obtained in a reaction of benzamidomethylation of 4-acetyloxybenzoic acid (2) with (benzamidomethyl)­triethyl­ammonium chloride (1).
Irving-Williams Order in the Framework of Connectivity Index 3χv Enables Simultaneous Prediction of Stability Constants of Bivalent Transition Metal Complexes
Authors: Miličević Ante , Branica Gina , Raos Nenad
Published: January 2011

Logarithms of stability constants, log K1 and log β2, of the first transition series metal mono- and bis-complexes with any of four aliphatic amino acids (glycine, alanine, valine and leucine) decrease monotonously with third order valence connectivity index, 3χv, from Cu2+ to Mn2+. While stability of the complexes with the same metal is linearly dependent on 3χv, stability constants of Mn2+, Fe2+, Co2+, and Ni2+complexes with the same ligand show a quadratic dependence on 3χv. As Cu2+ complexes deviate significantly from quadratic functions, models for the simultaneous estimation of the stability constants, yielding r = 0.999 (S.E. = 0.05) and r = 0.998 (S.E. = 0.11), for log K1 and log β2, respectively, were developed only for Mn2+, Fe2+, Co2+, and Ni2+ complexes with amino acids.
Cross-Coupling Reactions as Valuable Tool for the Preparation of PET Radiotracers
Authors: Pretze Marc , Große-Gehling Philipp , Mamat Constantin
Published: January 2011

The increasing application of positron emission tomography (PET) in nuclear medicine has stimulated the extensive development of a multitude of new radiotracers and novel radiolabeling procedures with the most prominent short-lived positron emitters carbon-11 and fluorine-18. Radiolabeling with these radionuclides represents a remarkable challenge. Special attention has to be paid to synthesis time and specific labeling techniques due to the short physical half life of the respective radionuclides 11C (t1/2 = 20.4 min) and 18F (t1/2 = 109.8 min). In the past, numerous transition metal-catalyzed reactions were employed in organic chemistry, even though only a handful of these coupling reactions were adopted in radiochemical practice. Thus, the implementation of modern synthesis methods like cross-coupling reactions offers the possibility to develop a wide variety of novel radiotracers. The introduction of catalysts based on transition metal complexes bears a high potential for rapid, efficient, highly selective and functional group-tolerating incorporation of carbon-11 and fluorine-18 into target molecules. This review deals with design, application and improvement of transition metal-mediated carbon-carbon as well as carbon-heteroatom cross-coupling reactions as a labeling feature with the focus on the preparation of radiolabeled compounds for molecular imaging.
Antitrypanosomal Activity of Novel Benzaldehyde-Thiosemicarbazone Derivatives from Kaurenoic Acid †
Authors: Haraguchi Shirani K. , Silva Adriano A. , Vidotti Gentil J. , Dos Santos Phercyles V. , Garcia Francielle P. , Pedroso Raissa B. , Nakamura Celso V. , De Oliveira Cecília M. A. , Da Silva Cleuza C.
Published: January 2011

A series of new thiosemicarbazones derived from natural diterpene kaurenoic acid were synthesized and tested against the epimastigote forms of Trypanosoma cruzi to evaluate their antitrypanosomal potential. Seven of the synthesized thiosemicarbazones were more active than kaurenoic acid with IC50 values between 2-24.0 mM. The o-nitro-benzaldehyde-thiosemicarbazone derivative was the most active compound with IC50 of 2.0 mM. The results show that the structural modifications accomplished enhanced the antitrypanosomal activity of these compounds. Besides, the thiocyanate, thiosemicarbazide and the p- methyl, p-methoxy, p-dimethylamine, m-nitro and o-chlorobenzaldehyde-thiosemicarbazone derivatives displayed lower toxicity for LLMCK2 cells than kaurenoic acid, exhibing an IC50 of 59.5 mM.
Seasonal Variation in the Chemical Composition and Antimicrobial Activity of Volatile Oils of Three Species of Leptospermum (Myrtaceae) Grown in Brazil
Authors: Demuner Antonio Jacinto , Almeida Barbosa Luiz Claudio , Gonçalves Magalhaes Cassia , Da Silva Cleber Jose , Alvares Maltha Celia Regina , Lelis Pinheiro Antonio
Published: January 2011

This study investigates the seasonal variation of three species of Leptospermum (Myrtaceae) grown in Brazil. The chemical composition of the volatile oils of L. flavescens and L. petersonii did not show any significant seasonal variation in the major components, while for Leptospermum madidum subsp. sativum the levels of major constituents of the volatile oils varied with the harvest season. Major fluctuations in the composition of L. madidum subsp. sativum oil included α-pinene (0–15.2%), β-pinene (0.3–18.5%), α-humulene (0.8–30%), 1,8-cineole (0.4–7.1%) and E-caryophyllene (0.4–11.9%). Levels of β-pinene (0.3–5.6%), terpinen-4-ol (4.7–7.2%) and nerolidol (55.1–67.6%) fluctuated seasonally in the L. flavescens oil. In L. petersonii, changes were noted for geranial (29.8–32.8%), citronellal (26.5–33.9%) and neral (22.7–23.5%). The activity of the volatile oils against the tested bacteria differed, depending on season the oils were obtained. In general, the volatile oils were more active against Gram-positive bacteria.
New Strategies in the Development of Antimicrobial Coatings: The Example of Increasing Usage of Silver and Silver Nanoparticles
Authors: Knetsch Menno L. W. , Koole Leo H.
Published: January 2011

Bacterial infection from medical devices is a major problem and accounts for an increasing number of deaths as well as high medical costs. Many different strategies have been developed to decrease the incidence of medical device related infection. One way to prevent infection is by modifying the surface of the devices in such a way that no bacterial adhesion can occur. This requires modification of the complete surface with, mostly, hydrophilic polymeric surface coatings. These materials are designed to be non-fouling, meaning that protein adsorption and subsequent microbial adhesion are minimized. Incorporation of antimicrobial agents in the bulk material or as a surface coating has been considered a viable alternative for systemic application of antibiotics. However, the manifestation of more and more multi-drug resistant bacterial strains restrains the use of antibiotics in a preventive strategy. The application of silver nanoparticles on the surface of medical devices has been used to prevent bacterial adhesion and subsequent biofilm formation. The nanoparticles are either deposited directly on the device surface, or applied in a polymeric surface coating. The silver is slowly released from the surface, thereby killing the bacteria present near the surface. In the last decade there has been a surplus of studies applying the concept of silver nanoparticles as an antimicrobial agent on a range of different medical devices. The main problem however is that the exact antimicrobial mechanism of silver remains unclear. Additionally, the antimicrobial efficacy of silver on medical devices varies to a great extent. Here we will review existing antimicrobial coating strategies and discuss the use of silver or silver nanoparticles on surfaces that are designed to prevent medical device related infections.
Sensors Best Paper Award 2011
Authors: Han Ophelia
Published: January 2011

With the start of 2011, Sensors is instituting an annual award to recognize outstanding papers related to sensing technologies and applications that meet the aims, scope and high standards of this journal. We are pleased to announce the first “Sensors Best Paper Award” for 2011. Nominations were solicited from the Section Editor-in-Chiefs of Sensors, with all papers published in 2005 eligible for consideration. [...]
A Study of IEEE 802.15.4 Security Framework for Wireless Body Area Networks
Authors: Saleem Shahnaz , Ullah Sana , Kwak Kyung Sup
Published: January 2011

A Wireless Body Area Network (WBAN) is a collection of low-power and lightweight wireless sensor nodes that are used to monitor the human body functions and the surrounding environment. It supports a number of innovative and interesting applications, including ubiquitous healthcare and Consumer Electronics (CE) applications. Since WBAN nodes are used to collect sensitive (life-critical) information and may operate in hostile environments, they require strict security mechanisms to prevent malicious interaction with the system. In this paper, we first highlight major security requirements and Denial of Service (DoS) attacks in WBAN at Physical, Medium Access Control (MAC), Network, and Transport layers. Then we discuss the IEEE 802.15.4 security framework and identify the security vulnerabilities and major attacks in the context of WBAN. Different types of attacks on the Contention Access Period (CAP) and Contention Free Period (CFP) parts of the superframe are analyzed and discussed. It is observed that a smart attacker can successfully corrupt an increasing number of GTS slots in the CFP period and can considerably affect the Quality of Service (QoS) in WBAN (since most of the data is carried in CFP period). As we increase the number of smart attackers the corrupted GTS slots are eventually increased, which prevents the legitimate nodes to utilize the bandwidth efficiently. This means that the direct adaptation of IEEE 802.15.4 security framework for WBAN is not totally secure for certain WBAN applications. New solutions are required to integrate high level security in WBAN.
A Parkinson’s Disease Measurement System Using Laser Lines and a CMOS Image Sensor
Authors: Chang Rong-Seng , Chiu Jen-Hwey , Chen Fang-Pey , Chen Jyh-Cheng , Yang Jen-Lin
Published: January 2011

This paper presents a non-invasive, non-contact system for the measurement of the arterial dorsum manus vibration waveforms of Parkinson disease patients. The laser line method is applied to detect the dorsum manus vibration in rest and postural situations. The proposed measurement system mainly consists of a laser diode and a low cost complementary metal-oxide semiconductor (CMOS) image sensor. Laser line and centroid methods are combined with the Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) in this study. The shape and frequency and relative frequency of the dorsum manus vibration waveforms can be detected rapidly using our Parkinson’s disease measurement system. A laser line near the wrist joint is used as the testing line. The experimental results show an obvious increase in the amplitude and frequency of dorsum manus variation in the measured region in patients suffering from Parkinson’s disease, indicating the obvious effects of the disease. Both in postural and rest state measurements, as the patient disease age increases the vibration frequency increases. The measurement system is well suited for evaluating and pre-diagnosing early stage Parkinson’s disease.
Resonant Photonic Biosensors with Polarization-Based Multiparametric Discrimination in Each Channel
Authors: Magnusson Robert , Wawro Debra , Zimmerman Shelby , Ding Yiwu
Published: January 2011

In this paper, we describe guided-mode resonance biochemical sensor technology. We briefly discuss sensor fabrication and show measured binding dynamics for example biomaterials in use in our laboratories. We then turn our attention to a particularly powerful attribute of this technology not possessed by competing methods. This attribute is the facile generation of multiple resonance peaks at an identical physical location on the sensor surface. These peaks respond uniquely to the biomolecular event, thereby enriching the data set available for event quantification. The peaks result from individual, polarization-dependent resonant leaky modes that are the foundation of this technology. Thus, by modeling the binding event and fitting to a rigorous electromagnetic formalism, we can determine individual attributes of the biolayer and its surroundings and avoid a separate reference site for background monitoring. Examples provide dual-polarization quantification of biotin binding to a silane-coated sensor as well as binding of the cancer biomarker protein calreticulin to its monoclonal IgG capture antibody. Finally, we present dual-polarization resonance response for poly (allylamine hydrochloride) binding to the sensor with corresponding results of backfitting to a simple model; this differentiates the contributions from biolayer adhesion and background changes.
Cytoskeletal Dynamics: Concepts in Measles Virus Replication and Immunomodulation
Authors: Avota Elita , Gassert Evelyn , Schneider-Schaulies Sibylle
Published: January 2011

In common with most viruses, measles virus (MV) relies on the integrity of the cytoskeleton of its host cells both with regard to efficient replication in these cells, but also retention of their motility which favors viral dissemination. It is, however, the surface interaction of the viral glycoprotein (gp) complex with receptors present on lymphocytes and dendritic cells (DCs), that signals effective initiation of host cell cytoskeletal dynamics. For DCs, these may act to regulate processes as diverse as viral uptake and sorting, but also the ability of these cells to successfully establish and maintain functional immune synapses (IS) with T cells. In T cells, MV signaling causes actin cytoskeletal paralysis associated with a loss of polarization, adhesion and motility, which has been linked to activation of sphingomyelinases and subsequent accumulation of membrane ceramides. MV modulation of both DC and T cell cytoskeletal dynamics may be important for the understanding of MV immunosuppression at the cellular level.
Root system architecture of Kosteletzkya pentacarpos (Malvaceae) and belowground environmental influences on root and aerial growth dynamics
Authors: Halchak Jennifer L. , Seliskar Denise M. , Gallagher John L.
Published: January 2011

• Premise of the study: Root growth and architecture of Kosteletzkya pentacarpos and its response to nutrients and soil texture were studied to facilitate domestication of this plant as a biofuel crop (seeds for oil, stems for ethanol). Because it is salt tolerant, it does not compete with food crops for land.

• Methods: Four soil treatments in the bottom chambers of two‐chambered growing units (three nutrient levels in sandy loam and saline, dredged material) were used to test substrate influences on root structure and aerial growth in a greenhouse study. Simultaneously, underground reserves were determined by collecting aerial biomass of dark‐grown plants. Root cores (15 × 50 cm) were taken to determine root architecture of 2‐year‐old field‐grown plants.

• Key results: High nutrient availability increased the coarse root biomass (≥2 mm diameter) and increased capsule production. Plants grown in dredged sediment had no substantial growth differences from the controls. Underground reserves were significant. Field cores demonstrated that roots extended more than 50 cm with most of the coarse roots in the upper 20 cm and the coarse to fine root ratio decreasing with depth. Fine root surface area, measured using image‐analysis software, was substantially greater than many other crops, as was root mass density.

• Conclusions: Root architecture of K. pentacarpos and its responses to various nutrient levels and soil types demonstrate that it is a promising species for further development as a crop on coastal saline land including dredged material sites. Its perennial taproot system stores carbon and will perform buffer functions between upland and wetlands as sea level rises.
Angiosperm leaf vein patterns are linked to leaf functions in a global‐scale data set
Authors: Walls Ramona L.
Published: January 2011

• Premise of the study: Leaves are plants’ primary interface with the atmosphere and affect a range of ecological processes. Vein patterns are one of the most prominent aspects of leaf form, and the functional significance of different vein patterns is gaining increasing attention.

• Methods: Phylogenetic and standard ANOVA and regression were used to provide the first global‐scale, phylogenetically based test of relations between angiosperm vein patterns and leaf functional traits. Pagel's λ was used to test for phylogenetic signal in all traits.

• Key results: All leaf traits had significant phylogenetic signal. Significant phylogenetically based relations were found between secondary vein pattern and leaf functions, linking leaf form to the well‐known trade‐off between physiological activity and leaf life span. The relations between primary vein pattern and leaf functions were not found to be significant with phylogenetic tests, suggesting these relations may be the result of changes within a few lineages, followed by phylogenetic conservatism, rather than multiple instances of correlated trait evolution. The relation between minor vein density and maximum photosynthetic rate was found to be marginally nonsignificant with phylogenetic regression, which does not rule out coordinated evolution of hydraulic supply and demand.

• Conclusions: Although phylogenetic conservatism may weaken statistical relations between vein patterns and leaf functions, phylogenetic relations can provide a complementary source of information for inferring unmeasured values of leaf traits. Relations among vein patterns, leaf functions, and phylogeny will be valuable for estimating functional attributes of living and fossil plant species and communities.
Species delimitation and evolution in morphologically and chemically diverse communities of the lichen‐forming genus Xanthoparmelia (Parmeliaceae, Ascomycota) in western North America
Authors: Leavitt Steven D. , Johnson Leigh , St. Clair Larry L.
Published: January 2011

• Premise of the study: Accurate species delimitation is important for understanding the diversification of biota and has critical implications for ecological and conservation studies. However, a growing body of evidence indicates that morphology‐based species circumspection in lichenized fungi misrepresents fungal diversity. The foliose lichen genus Xanthoparmelia includes over 800 species displaying a complex array of morphological and secondary metabolite diversity.

• Methods: We used a multifaceted approach, applying phylogenetic, population genetic, and genealogical analyses to delimit species in a single well‐supported monophyletic clade containing 10 morphologically and chemically diverse Xanthoparmelia species in western North America. Sequence data from four ribosomal and two low‐copy, protein‐coding markers, along with chemical and morphological data were used to assess species diversity.

• Key results: We found that traditionally circumscribed species are not supported by molecular data. Rather, all sampled taxa were better represented by three polymorphic population clusters. Our results suggest that secondary metabolite variation may have limited utility in diagnosing lineages within this group, while identified populations clusters did not reflect major phylogeographic or ecological patterns.

• Conclusions: In contrast to studies revealing previously undiscovered fungal lineages masked within lichen species circumscribed by traditional morphological and chemical concepts, the present study suggests that species diversity has been overestimated in the species‐rich genus Xanthoparmelia.
Heavy atom effects in the Paternò–Büchi reaction of pyrimidine derivatives with 4,4’-disubstituted benzophenones
Authors: Kong Feng-Feng , Wang Jian-Bo , Song Qin-Hua
Published: January 2011

The regioselectivity and the photochemical efficiency were investigated in the Paternò–Büchi reaction of 1,3-dimethylthymine (DMT) and 1,3-dimethyluracil (DMU) with benzophenone (1b) and some 4,4’-disubstituted derivatives (dimethoxy (1a), difluoro (1c), dichloro (1d), dibromo (1e) and dicyano benzophenone (1f)) that gives rise to two regioisomeric oxetanes, 2 and 3. The regioselectivity (the ratio of 2/3) decreased gradually for both DMT/DMU photochemical systems from 1a to 1f. That is, a halogen atom as an electron-withdrawing group (EWG) has a pronounced effect on the regioselectivity. However, the photochemical efficiency of the 1e systems did not show the expected increase, but decreased relative to systems with 1b. Temperature effects on the regioselectivity of 1b–e systems showed some interesting features for systems with heavy atoms (including the 1d and 1e systems), such as higher inversion temperatures, and an entropy-controlled regioselectively whereas the regioselectivity for two other systems (1b and 1c) is enthalpy–entropy controlled. A heavy atom effect is suggested to be responsible for these unusual phenomena based on the triplet-diradical mechanism of the Paternò–Büchi reaction.
Photocycloaddition of aromatic and aliphatic aldehydes to isoxazoles: Cycloaddition reactivity and stability studies
Authors: Griesbeck Axel G , Franke Marco , Neudörfl Jörg , Kotaka Hidehiro
Published: January 2011

The first photocycloadditions of aromatic and aliphatic aldehydes to methylated isoxazoles are reported. The reactions lead solely to the exo-adducts with high regio- and diastereoselectivities. Ring methylation of the isoxazole substrates is crucial for high conversions and product stability. The 6-arylated bicyclic oxetanes 9a–9c were characterized by X-ray structure analyses and showed the highest thermal stabilities. All oxetanes formed from isoxazoles were highly acid-sensitive and also thermally unstable. Cleavage to the original substrates is dominant and the isoxazole derived oxetanes show type T photochromism.