bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A computer‐enhanced pH study of theformaldehyde–sulphite clock reaction
Authors: Chau F. T. , Mok K. W.
Published: March 2007

The formaldehyde‐sulphite clock reaction was studied using an
Orion SA 720 pH/ISE meter interfaced to an IBM PC. The
laboratory software ‘ASYST’ was employed to facilitate data
acquisition and data treatment. Experimental pH profiles thus
obtained for the first time were simulated by invoking a theoretical
model based on the reaction mechanism suggested by Burnett [1].
The variation of rate constants with compositions of reaction
mixtures was also discuseed in light of the empirical expression
proposed by Bell and Evans [2] for instantaneous rate constant of
the clock reaction.
Spectrophotometric determination ofcreatinine by monosegmented continuous‐flow analysis
Authors: de Faria Lourival C. , Pasquini Celio
Published: March 2007

A monosegmented continuous‐flow system (MCFS) has been
evaluated for determination of creatinine in urine using the Jaffé
reaction. The analyser is compact and allows 130 determinations to
be performed per hour, with a relative standard deviation of the
peak height better than 1.5% (N =10). The results for real
samples agree with those obtained by. the standard manual Jaffé
procedure and with the kinetic automatic method.
Application and automation of flow injection analysis (FIA) using fastresponding enzyme glass electrodes to detect penicillin in fermentation broth andurea in human serum
Authors: Meier Helmut , Lantreibecq François , Tran-Minh Canh
Published: March 2007

An enzyme immobilization technique has been developed to
determine the concentration of biological compounds. This technique
has been applied to penicillinase and urease, which are crosslinked
as very fine films directly onto the sensitive ends of pH glass
electrodes, thereby dispensing with the need of an on‐line enzyme
reactor. The biosensor is incorporated in an FIA system within a
magnetically stirred detection cell. Penicillin‐V in fermentation
broth and urea in human serum samples were detected and the
results were compared with HPLC and spectrophotometric
methods. On‐line measurement is achieved through the automation
of this FIA system.
Evaluation of the performance ofmicroprocessor‐based colorimeter
Authors: Randhawa S. S. , Gupta R. C. , Bhandari A. K. , Malhotra P. S.
Published: March 2007

Colorimetric estimations have an important role in quantitative
studies. An inexpensive and portable microprocessor‐based colorimeter
developed by the authors is described in this paper. The
colorimeter uses a light emitting diode as the light source; a pinphotodiode
as the detector and an 8085A microprocessor. Blood
urea, glucose, total protein, albumin and bilirubin from patient
blood samples were analysed with the instrument and results
obtained were compared with assays of the same blood using a
Spectronic 21. A good correlation was found between the results
from the two instruments.
Computerized data treatment for an HPLC‐GFAAS system for the identification and quantification of trace element compounds
Authors: Kölbl G. , Kalcher K. , Irgolic K. J.
Published: March 2007

Liquid chromatographs, coupled with graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometers, have been widely used for the identification and quantification of trace element compounds. The quantification of the discontinuous signals from the spectrometer defining a chromatographic band is very much a matter of judgement and therefore prone to error. This paper describes a system which links a high‐performance liquid chromatograph via a ‘Brinckman’ flowthrough cup to a Hitachi Zeeman graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometer equipped with an autosampler. The introduction of aliquots from the column effluent and the analysis sequence is computer‐controlled through a home‐built interface. The signals from the spectrometer are passed through an analoguedigital converter and processed by selectable algorithms. The software offers a variety of options for processing the chromatographic data, such as data smoothing, Gaussian or spline interpolation, and trapezium or Simpson integration.

This system was used to separate and determine selenite and selenate in aqueous solution with absolute detection limits (3 σ) of 23 ng Se for selenite and 16 ng Se for selenate. This system can be adapted to other spectrometers, provided that the required connections to the electronics can be made.
An automated method for the determination of deoxyribonuclease activity as exemplified by fractionation of the components of the medicament Varidase®
Authors: Locke I. C. , Ramsey M. P. , Hill S. S. , Carpenter B. G.
Published: March 2007

The activity of most deoxyribonuclease enzymes can be monitored by measuring the change in absorbance at 260 nm which accompanies the breakdown of the double‐stranded structure of native DNA. An automated method for determining deoxyribonuclease activity, based on such an absorbance change, which can overcome problems of inhibition arising from the presence of inorganic cations, is described. Variations in inorganic cation concentration is a particular problem when measuring the activity of chromatographic fractions eluted via a salt gradient. A comparison is made between the automated and a manual method for the assay of deoxyribonuclease active constituents, of the medicament ‘Varidase’, eluted from a Cellex‐D (Bio‐Rad Laboratories Ltd) anionic exchange resin using a 0.05‐1.0 M sodium chloride gradient.
A portable battery‐powered flow injection monitor for the in situ analysis of nitrate in natural waters
Authors: Blundell N. J. , Hopkins A. , Worsfold P. J. , Casey H.
Published: March 2007

The design and performance of a portable, automated flow injection (FI)‐based photometric monitor are described. The system is controlled by an in‐house microcomputer system that enables the monitor (including a solid state detector) to operate from a 12 V battery supply. The monitor uses the cadmium reduction/diazotization method to analyse for nitrate with a linear range of 0 to 12 mg l-1 and a limit of detection of 0.05 mg l-1 (NO3‐N). The hardware and software design, monitor performance and results obtained during unattended operation are presented.
Fluorimetric methods for the measurement of intermediate metabolites (lactate, pyruvate, alanine, β‐hydroxybutyrate, glycerol) using a COBAS FARA centrifugal analyser
Authors: Monti L. D. , Sandoli P. E. , Costa S. , Phan V. C. , Piatti P. M.
Published: March 2007

Intermediate products of the metabolism of glucose, fat and amino‐acid are important in the evaluation of such metabolic disorders as diabetes mellitus, liver disease and metabolic acidosis. In the present study, methods for the measurement of intermediate metabolites (lactate, pyruvate, alanine, β‐hydroxybutyrate and glycerol) have been adapted to a fast centrifugal analyzer: the COBAS FARA. Correlation coeffcients rangedfrom 0.90 to 0.99, compared to established manual spectrophotometric methods. Within‐run coeffcients of variation (CVs) ranged between 2.9 and 8.8% at low levels, between 1.5 and 5.7% at medium levels and between 1.2 and 5.6% at high levels. Between‐run CVs were between 4.0 and 15.0% at low levels, between 1.7 and 7.0% at medium levels and between 1.3 and 2.7% at high levels. These fluorimetric assays for the determination of intermediate metabolites on COBAS FARA (Roche) have a good sensitivity and precision, are less costly than manual methods and can be used on a routine basis.
Enzyme reference materials: their place indiagnostic enzyrnology
Authors: Moss D. W.
Published: March 2007

Estimations of the activities of various enzymes in clinical samples
are routine tasks for clinical chemists. Most of this work is done
by automatic analysis. The reference ranges against which patients′
results are interpreted, however, have generally been defined in terms
of manual methods and the conditions of a manual method cannot
be reproduced in automated systems. This paper describes the
possibility of translating the results of enzyme analysis into a
common currency through the use of enzyme reference materials as
calibrators.
Bioanalytical automatlon: history and future plans
Authors: Farmen Raymond H.
Published: March 2007

Bioanalysis is determining the concentration of drugs and
metabolites in biological fluids (i.e. plasma and urine). During
the past 15 years tremendous advances in bioanalysis, for example
HPLC, auto injectors, data collection systems and robotics has
enabled the productivity of the bioanalyst to increase but it still
requires considerable manual intervention. This paper describes the
rationale, the justification and the plans Bristol‐Myers
Squibb has to completely automate the entire bioanalytical process.
The role of the automation development group in analyticalresearch and development at Dupont Merck
Authors: Lynch John C. , Green Jonathan S. , Hovsepian Paul K. , Reilly Kathleen L. , Short Joseph A.
Published: March 2007

Laboratory robotics has been firmly established in many non‐QC
laboratories as a valuable tool for automating pharmaceutical
dosage form analysis. Often a single project or product line is used
to justify an initial robot purchase thus introducing robotics to the
laboratory for the first time. However, to gain widespread acceptance
within the laboratory and to justify further investment in robotics,
existing robots must be used to develop analyses for existing manual
methods as well as new projects beyond the scope off the original
purchase justification. The Automation Development Group in
Analytical Research and Development is a team of analysts
primarily devoted to developing new methods and adapting existing
methods for the robot. This team approach developed the expertise
and synergy necessary to significantly expand the contribution of
robotics to automation in the authors′ laboratory.
Decentralized management of laboratory automation
Authors: Chambers Don
Published: March 2007

It is generally believed that successful robot users have dedicated
centralized robotic groups. While such a generalization holds some
merit historically, the availability of newer more user‐friendly robots
and workstations in recent years and a more computer‐literate work
force today is changing the way that automation can be managed.
Decentralization recognizes robots and workstations as additional
tools for all analysts, not a select few. Such an approach initiates
involvement and education of more staff with respect to automation.
This further ushers the development of automated methods instead
of the automation of manually‐developed methods. Decentralization
also provides local control of resources to address the priorities of
a specific functional group within the department. Both a vision of
the future, as well as a look at the past, should be considered when
determining how to manage robotic and other means of automation.
This paper discusses decentralized management of robots as
currently applied and envisioned in a large pharmaceutical
analytical R & D department.
IFCC methods for the measurement of catalytic concentration ofenzymes. Part 8. IFCC method for lactatedehydrogenase (L‐lactate: NAD+oxidoreductase, EC 1.1.1.27)
Authors: Bais Renze , Philcox Margaret
Published: March 2007

Human lactate dehydrogenase is a tetramer made up of two types
of subunits, either H (heart) or M (muscle). Combination of these
subunits gives rise to the five isoenzymes of lactate dehydrogenase
which are found in mammalian tissues. The relative proportions
of the individual isoenzymes found in serum of patients is related
to the severity of the lesion in the organ or tissue from which they
originate and the half‐life of the individual tissue‐specific enzymes.
Thus, one cannot predict the relative proportions of the different
isoenzymes in any one patient sample.

Lactate dehydrogenase catalyses the reversible oxidation of lactate
to pyruvate and either reaction can be measured readily. However,
in this method, the lactate to pyruvate reaction has been selected
because of the following reasons; the time‐course of the reaction is
more linear, the reaction results in an increase in absorbance and
optimization of substrates is possible (see appendix A).

The principles applied in the selection of the conditions of
measurement are those stated in previous publications by the IFCC’s
Committee on Enzymes [1]. Human serum and tissue extracts have
been used as the sources of enzymes. The final concentration of
substrates and the pH have been selected on the basis of experiments
and empirical optimization techniques and have been confirmed by
calculation from rate equations. The catalytic and physical
properties of the isoenzymes differ, but because of the importance of
the heart specific isoenzyme (LD1) in the assessment of coronary
heart disease and as a tumour marker, this method has been
optimized for this isoenzyme. However, the method is also suitable,
although less optimally, for the determination of the other
isoenzymes of lactate dehydrogenase which may be present in serum.
Automation of a fixed‐bedcontinuous–flow reactor
Authors: Alcántara R. , Canoira L. , Conde R. , Fernández-Sánchez J. M. , Navarro A.
Published: March 2007

This paper describes the design and operation of a laboratory plant
with a fixed‐bed continuous‐flow reactor, fully automated and
controlled from a personal computer. The automated variables
include two gas flows, one liquid flow, six temperatures, two
pressures, one circulation of a cooling liquid, and 10 electrovalves.
An adaptive‐predictive control system was used. The chemical
process chosen to run the automated reactor was the conversion of
methanol to gasoline over a ZSM‐5 catalyst. This is a highly
exothermal process, so a cascade control system had to be used to
control the reactor internal temperature. Pressure and weight hourly
space velocity (WHSV) were fixed at 1 arm and 1.5h-1
respectively. Accurate control (±0.2°C) of the reactor’s internal
temperature was achieved and repeatability for the conversion of
methanol to gasoline was good.
Positioning laboratory automation for today′s dynamic climate
Authors: Vogt D. G.
Published: March 2007

Laboratory automation has existed and matured at Eli Lilly and
Company for well over a decade. The author′s section serves as a
developer of laboratory automation systems for customers within
Lilly and embodies ‘robotic friendly’ laboratories with highly
technical and experienced personnel.
With several systems showing signs of age, second generation
‘smart systems’ have been developed and delivered during the last
three years. These systems were built with an ideology different
from previous systems. Upon their delivery, the ‘smart systems’
met the customer′s functional requirements but the overall acceptance
of this ideology is still being debated due to the perception of failure.
Much of this perception can be attributed to the delivery of a system
heavily dependent on system maintenance, something totally
unexpected by the customer. This paper discusses the ideology of
a‘smart systems’ and the results following implementation. The
events that led to the review and subsequent departure of the ‘smart
systems’ ideology are also described.
A PC‐controlled module system for automatic sample preparation and analysis
Authors: Einarsson Östen , Hansén Lars
Published: March 2007

A simple automatic analytical system, consisting of separate modules, for liquid chromatography has been constructed. The different parts of the automatic machine are an auto sampler, an auto dispenser, a selector valve with eight channels, a heater/cooler, a mixing chamber and a pressure air driven injector valve. The process was controlled by a PC from an easily changeable run protocol. The system was applied to analysis of primary amines. The analysis was performed as a pre‐column derivatization reaction of the amines and separation by isocratic reversed‐phase HPLC with fluorescent detection. Reproducibility and analytical precision have been studied. Comparison between automatically and manually made derivatization reaction and injection was also made. The automatic system was easy to handle, cost‐effective and gave good reproducibility.
A fully automated flow injection atomic absorption system for the determinationof copper traces in waters with on‐line pre‐concentration in an ion‐exchange column
Authors: Burguera J. L. , Burguera M. , Carrero P. , Marcano J. , Rivas C. , Brunetto M. R.
Published: March 2007

The paper describes the development of an automatic on‐line column
pre‐concentration technique using a time based‐flow injection atomic absorption spectrometry system. A manifold incorporating a micro‐column containing 25 mg of Dowex 50W‐X8 was used with a time‐based injector for the pre‐concentration and determination of
copper in natural and drinking waters. The system features depend on the alternate positions of a solenoid valve. The 3σ detection limits, enrichment factors, sampling frequency, relative standard deviations and linear calibration graphs were, respectively, in the range 0.6‐1.5 μg/l, 25‐60, 15‐30 measurements/h, 1.0‐3.1% and 1‐65 μg/ml for pre‐concentration times of 1 min. The procedure was successfully applied to a range of water samples and the accuracy was assessed through recovery experiments, the analysis of certified reference water samples and by independent analysis by
atomic absorption spectrometry with electrothermal atomization.
Atomic fluorescence determination of mercury in fresh water ecosystems
Authors: Knox Randy , Kammin William R. , Thomson David
Published: March 2007

This paper reports on an investigation into determining nanogram/l
quantities of mercury in marine and fresh water matrices using a cold vapour generation of mercury, followed by fluorescence detection. Samples were prepared for analysis using a free bromine oxidation technique. A high efficiency gas‐liquid separator was used
to enhance the detection of mercury. For fresh water, typical method detection limits (MDL) were determined at less than 1 nanogram/l (ng/l). For near shore seawater, the MDL was 1.2 ng/l. Method spikes, which were performed at 20 ng/l, showed mean recoveries
within US EPA Contract Laboratory Protocol (CLP) acceptance criteria. System blanks averaged 0.12 ng/l, and recoveries of NIST 1641c diluted to 29.4 ng/l averaged 93.4%. A number of local rivers and streams were sampled, and mercury was determined. All
results to date indicate mercury levels below the US EPA chronic water quality criteria for mercury.
Simultaneous spectrophotometric determination of copper(II), lead(II)and cadrnium(II)
Authors: Ren Shouxin , Gao Ling
Published: March 2007

The full spectrum technique in the fourier domain was studied for
simultaneous determination of Cu(II), Pb(II) and Cd(II) with 4‐(2‐pyridylazo) resorcinol (PAR). A program called SPGRFSQ. was designed to perform the calculations. Seven error functions were calculated for deducing the number of factors. Data reduction was performed using principal component analysis (PCA) algorithm. Experimental results showed the method to be successful even where there was severe overlap of spectra.
Evaluation of a random access analyser: BM/Hitachi 911
Authors: Kanluan Taweesook , Tangvarasittichai Surapon , Tangvarasittichai Orathai
Published: March 2007

The performance of Boehringer Mannheim′s BM/Hitachi 911 was evaluated for three months. The mean coeffcient of variation (CV) of the within‐run and between‐run imprecision of the 16 analytes were less than 1.16% (range 0.47‐2.38%) and 1.35% (range 0.62‐2.93,%), respectively. A linearity study for the various assays covered clinically important levels. No relevant drift was observed during an eight‐hour assay nor was any sample‐related carry‐over detected. In all cases, the regression analyses (slopes) of the results obtainedfrom BM/Hitachi 911 and 717 were between the extreme values of 0.94 and 1.05. During the three months of operation, no major problem was encountered. The BM/Hitachi 911 was found to be easily operated, to require minimal attention and simple daily maintenance during operation.
Signal enhancement techniques for chromatography detection systems
Authors: Jackson K. D. , Walton S. J. , Campbell D.
Published: March 2007

The Environmental Protection Act has created a growing need for the measurement and assessment of trace emissions to the environment. This encompasses three main areas of ground, water and the atmosphere. The need to achieve lower emissions has placed a large burden on analytical techniques, particularly in the areas of trace analysis to ppb and ppt levels. Chromatographic techniques are widely used for assessment and measurement of emissions in all three areas. Enhanced detectors using mass spectrometry principles are available to lower detection limits, but these are expensive. Standard chromatography detectors can be used for trace analysis, but this often leads to extensive sample preparation stages to achieve low detection limits. This paper describes the techniques developed by Thomas Swan & Company to introduce a cost effective way of lowering detection limits. The approach taken meets both BATNEEC and BPEO constraints.
Use of nitrous oxide as a purge gas for automated nitrogen isotope analysis by the Rittenberg technique
Authors: Mulvaney R. L. , Khan S. A. , Sims G. K. , Stevens W. B.
Published: March 2007

An apparatus that operates with an isotope‐ratio mass spectrometer to automatically perform nitrogen isotope analyses by the Rittenberg technique was modified to permit the use of nitrous oxide (N2O) instead of Freon (CCl2F2 or CHClF2) for the purging of air prior to hypobromite oxidation of ammonium‐N to N2 in a plastic microplate. Analytical performance was unaffected by the modifications. Up to 768 samples can be processed in a single loading, at a rate of 6 to 12 samples/h. Within the range of 0.2 to 20 atom % 15N, isotope‐ratio analyses of 50 to 200 μg of N using the automated Rittenberg apparatus (ARA) with a double‐collector mass spectrometer were accurate to within 0.7%, as compared to manual Rittenberg analyses of 1 mg of N using the same mass spectrometer with a dual‐inlet system. Automated analyses of 20μg of N were accurate to within 2%, and automated analyses of 10 μg of N were accurate to within 7%. The relative standard deviation for measurements at the natural abundance level (10 analyses, 20‐200 μg of N) was < 0.04 %.
1. The Data Librarian: laboratories today—the need for the Librarian
Authors: Liscouski Joe
Published: March 2007

This first part of ‘The Data Librarian’ describes the current situation in analytical laboratories and the need for the Data Librarian. The second part of the paper (Liscouski, J., 1997, Journal of Automatic Chemistry, 19, 199‐204) will examine the features of the Data Librarian.
pH electrode performance under automated management conditions
Authors: Comer J. E. A. , Hibbert C.
Published: March 2007

pH is frequently measured in laboratories, but to have confidence in the results it is necessary to know that it was measured properly. For an electrode to give accurate results it must be treated well and calibrated correctly. In this paper, an automated system for pH measurement is described; the system uses the operational pH scale and calibrates using two or three buffer solutions, taking proper account of the effects of temperature on the system. The system can be programmed with standard methods and procedures to ensure that the electrode gives the best possible performance. Calibrations and measurements within the system are reproducible, and the automated system is more robust than the manual pH meter, and requires less operator time.
Application of hand‐held mobility spectrometers as sensors in manufacturing industries
Authors: Allinson Graeme
Published: March 2007

Ion mobility spectrometers (IMS) are small, lightweight, extremely robust devices with low power requirements, no moving parts, no absolute requirement for gases or vacuums, that can be operated at ambient temperatures and pressures, and yet are capable of measuring vapour phase concentrations of organic chemicals at very low levels (sub‐μg/l). IMS are capable of analysing complex mixtures and producing a simple spectral output. Volatile components produce measurable negative and positive product ions in the spectrometer through chemical ionization. The spectra produced are essentially the vapour phase fingerprints of the target molecules/mixture. Quantitative data can be obtained provided instrument response is within the linear dynamic range of these instruments, but most practical applications of IMS have used the technology in a qualitative manner in situations which require just an above/below threshold or positive/negative response.

In the manufacturing industry there are many examples where the aroma/odour of raw materials has safety or product quality implications. IMS was not developed to replace traditional methods of analysis, e.g. GC/MS or sensory panels, but rather to provide a rapid, qualitative response complementary to more established methods. This paper reports on the use of a hand‐held ion mobility spectrometer to characterize the vapours produced by volatile organic compounds,fresh herbs and retail spice mixtures at ambient temperature and pressure. The results show that by monitoring in both ion acquisition modes, ion mobility spectrometers are capable of discriminating between a wide range of products.
Effects of experimental design on calibration curve precision in routine analysis
Authors: Pimentel Maria Fernanda , Neto Benício de Barros , Saldanha Teresa Cristina B. , Araújo Mário César Ugulino
Published: March 2007

A computational program which compares the effciencies of different experimental designs with those of maximum precision (D‐optimized designs) is described. The program produces confidence interval plots for a calibration curve and provides information about the number of standard solutions, concentration levels and suitable concentration ranges to achieve an optimum calibration. Some examples of the application of this novel computational program are given, using both simulated and real data.
Managing automation developrent in harmony with the rest of an international company—a QC laboratory manager′s perspective
Authors: Newton Paul
Published: March 2007

Significant opportunities and challenges are presented when transitioning from managing laboratory automation development of pharmaceutical products at a single site to collaborative management with multiple domestic and international sites. Prior to integrating Glaxo and Burroughs Wellcome about two years ago, each company had expertise in laboratory automation, but neither had a strategy for consistent business‐justified laboratory automation. The approach for international harmonization of automation development of pharmaceutical test methods that the integrated company has adopted is presented. Some items to consider before undertaking a company‐wide automation development harmonization programme are offered for consideration. Experiences encountered and future planned benefits are discussed.
Success is not necessarily automatic
Authors: Selkirk Alastair B.
Published: March 2007

There are a number of factors (planning, process optimization, organizational structure, people development and the need to see the total picture) that must be in place for automation to be as effective as possible. This paper discusses these factors and their relationship with automation. It evaluates less obvious areas associated with automation, as well as the more established ones, and discusses the premise that it is the integration of all these aspects that truly offers the biggest opportunities.
Simultaneous spectrophotometric determination of manganese, zinc and cobalt by kernel partial least–squares method
Authors: Gao Ling , Ren Shouxin
Published: March 2007

Simultaneous spectrophotometric determination of Mn, Zn and Co was studied by two methods, classical partial least‐squares (PLS) and kernel partial least‐squares (KPLS), with 2‐(5‐bromo‐2‐ pyridylazo)‐5‐diethylaminephenol (5‐Br‐PADAP) and cetyl pyridinium bromide (CPB). Two programs, SPGRPLS and SPGRKPLS, were designed to perform the calculations. Eight error functions were calculated for deducing the number of factors. Data reductions were performed using principle component analysis. The KPLS method was applied for the rapid determination from a data matrix with many wavelengths and fewer numbers of samples. The relative standard errors of prediction (RSEP) for all components with KPLS and PLS methods were the same (0.0247). Experimental results showed both methods to be successful even where there was severe overlap of spectra.
Diagnosis of infections in newborns using a new particle‐mediated immunoassay for serum C‐reactive protein
Authors: Kitahashi S. , Tatsumi N. , Tagawa S. , Matsui T. , Higashihata M. , Shintaku H. , Tomoda S. , Tsuda I.
Published: March 2007

C‐reactive protein (CRP) levels were measured using a new particle‐mediated immunoassay. Tests for precision and linearity of this method gave satisfactory results. The minimum sensitivity of the assay was 1 ng/ml. Interference by bilirubin (<220mg/l) and haemoglobin (<20g/l) was not observed. Using this method, CRP was assayed as a means of monitoring for infection in newborns up to 72 h after delivery. The pattern of time course elevation curves was similar for both groups (10 healthy subjects and 26 patients), but the serum CRP (ng/ml) of infected newborns rose significantly higher than in healthy subjects at 24 h after birth. The rate of increase of CRP (∆CRP; ng/ml/h) may be a more useful parameter to detect infection, since a significant change in ∆CRP was apparent only 12 h after birth. The reported method was reliable and the parameters obtained were considered clinically useful for early detection of infection.
High current–density anodic electrodissolution in flow–injection systems forthe determination of aluminium, copper and zinc in non–ferroalloys by flameatomic absorption spectrometry
Authors: Giacomozzi César Augusto , de Queiróz Roldão R. U. , Souza Ivan Gonçalves , Neto José Anchieta Gomes
Published: March 2007

An automatic procedure with a high current‐density anodic electrodissolution
unit (HDAE) is proposed for the determination of
aluminium, copper and zinc in non‐ferroalloys by flame atomic
absorption spectrometry, based on the direct solid analysis. It
consists of solenoid valve‐based commutation in a flow‐injection
system for on‐line sample electro‐dissolution and calibration with
one multi‐element standard, an electrolytic cell equipped with two
electrodes (a silver needle acts as cathode, and sample as anode),
and an intelligent unit. The latter is assembled in a PC‐compatible
microcomputer for instrument control, and for data
acquisition and processing. General management of the process is
achieved by use of software written in Pascal. Electrolyte
compositions, flow rates, commutation times, applied current and
electrolysis time were investigated. A 0.5 mol l-1 HN03 solution
was elected as electrolyte and 300 A/cm2 as the continuous current
pulse.

The performance of the proposed system was evaluated by
analysing aluminium in Al‐alloy samples, and copper/zinc in brass
and bronze samples, respectively. The system handles about 50
samples per hour. Results are precise (R.S.D. < 2%) and in
agreement with those obtained by ICP‐AES and spectrophotometry
at a 95% confidence level.
Sequential determination of free and total cyanide by flow injection
Authors: Martin Maria Angélica Bonadiman , Ganzarolli Edgard Moreira , Lehmkuhl Arilson , de Souza Ivan Gonçlves , de Queiróz Roldão Roosevelt Urzêdo
Published: March 2007

This study presents a flow injection system for the sequential
determination of free (CN-) and total (CN-+ HCN) cyanide
using a potentiometric method which employs two different processes for
the determination of these two chemical species. The first
process is based on direct detection of CN- using an ion‐selective
electrode for cyanide. In the second process, the sample is mixed
with acid, and the released HCN is transferred across a PTFE
membrane. The flow system employs three solenoid valves, a gas
diffusion chamber, an ion‐selective electrode, a potentiometer, and
a computer with an AID conversion card. A Turbo Pascal®
computer program automatically performs all the steps involved in
data acquisition and processing. The standard deviation for the
results obtained with the proposed method was 0.5%.
Virtual instrumentation forelectro–analytical measurements
Authors: Economou A. S. , Volikakis G. J. , Efstathiou C. E.
Published: March 2007

This paper deals with some applications of Virtual Instrumentation
to electroanalytical measurements. Virtual Instruments (VIs)
are software programmes that simulate the external appearance
and functions of a real instrument on the screen of a computer. In
this work, programmes have been developed to control the potential
of a working electrode (through a suitable potentiostat), acquire
the current response, process the acquired current signal, and
control a peristaltic pump and injection valve. The sequence of
operations was controlled by the VI. The programmes developed
have been applied to amperometric and voltammetric measurements
in static and flowing solutions. The Vl package that has been used
was Lab VIEW 4.0.1 from National Instruments.
A computer‐controlled multi‐electrode switch
Authors: Santos Fernando J. V. , Santos M. Soledade C. S.
Published: March 2007

A computer‐actuated switch was built to control, simultaneously, two automatic titration assemblies each consisting of an electrode pair and a burette, and using only one measuring device. This switch is modular, simple and versatile allowing easy adaptation and expansion; apart from its application in multiple‐titration systems, this device can also be used for standard addition analysis and multi‐component analysis using ion‐selective electrodes (ISE). The repeatability as well as the accuracy of the measurements made with this switch were ensured using high‐quality relays, and very high electrical insulation, attained through the use of two separate printed circuit boards (pcb) of good quality and careful design of these pcbs. This low‐cost multi‐electrode switch is controlled through the parallel port of a PC that collects the data via an inexpensive 12‐bit ADC board (8‐bit ISA type), and is easily programmable in any high‐level language. This type of device allows the collection of a large amount of data in relatively short periods, which can be analysed later allowing the choice of the best compromise of time versus accuracy for the study of any particular system.
Incidence and distribution of lower extremity deep venous thrombosis at indirect computed tomography venography in patients suspected of pulmonary embolism
Authors: Ghaye Benoît , Noukoua Charlemagne , Dondelinger Robert , Nchimi Alain
Published: March 2007

Indirect computed tomography (CT) venography reportedly provides high accuracy for detection of venous thrombosis in patients suspected of pulmonary embolism (PE). Nevertheless, the extent of the scanning range for lower limb and abdominal veins remains to be determined. It was the objective of this study to investigate the distribution of venous thrombosis in order to identify the most appropriate extent of scanning range when using CT venography. We reviewed 1,408 combined CT pulmonary angiographies (CTPA) and indirect CT venographies of the lower limbs, performed in patients suspected of PE. Percentage of venous thromboembolism (VTE), which includes PE and/or venous thrombosis was calculated. Location and the upper end of clots were recorded in 37 venous segments per patient from calf to diaphragm. PE, venous thrombosis and VTE, were found respectively in 272 (19.3%), 259 (18.4%) and 329 (23.4%) patients. Addition of CT venography to CTPA increased depiction of VTE in 17.3%.The upper end of venous thrombosis was located below the knee in 48%, between knee and inguinal ligament in 36% of the patients, and above the inguinal ligament in 15%.Ninety-six patients had thrombosis in a single vein, of which none occured above the iliac crests in a patient without PE at CTPA. In conclusion, when added to CTPA, optimal scanning of CT venography should extent from calves to the iliac crests in patients suspected of VTE.
Haemostatic changes related to fibrin formation and fibrinolysis during the first trimester in normal pregnancy and in recurrent miscarriage
Authors: Ramirez Ysabel , Nagaswami Chandrasekaran , Masova Leona , Pulido Anibal , Mora José , Muller Aixa , Arocha-Piñango Carmen , Weisel John , Marchi Rita
Published: March 2007

We have studied some biophysical properties of the fibrin network during the normal state of pregnancy and in patients with recurrent miscarriage (RM), in the first trimester of pregnancy. The fibrin polymerization process, followed by turbidity, showed that the rate of fibrin monomer assembly and the final turbidity was increased in the pregnant group (normal and with history of RM) compared to non-pregnant women (normal and RM), which is consistent with the increased fibrinogen concentration during pregancy. No changes were observed in the Darcy constant (Ks) of RM clots, pregnant or not; however, in pregnant control subjects the Ks increased (p=0.03).The fibrin lysis rate was increased in pregnant women compared to non-pregnant, being faster in women with RM. The rheological properties of the fibrin network in the non-pregnant group (control and RM patients) were similar; in the pregnant state, the fibrin network of the control group was 1.3 times stiffer compared to the control non-pregnant women, and almost unchanged in RM patients. In this study we have found changes in the clot structure that seem to be related to normal pregnancy and an increased rate of the fibrin lysis process in the RM patients, which may have clinical relevance.
Subclinical hypothyroidism and deep venous thrombosis
Authors: Romualdi Erica , Piantanida Eliana , Gerdes Victor , Büller Harry , Tanda Maria , Bartalena Luigi , Venco Achille , Ageno Walter , Squizzato Alessandro
Published: March 2007

Several in-vivo studies have shown a procoagulant state in both overt and subclinical hyperthyroidism and in subclinical hypothyroidism. Insofar, no clinical studies have ever evaluated the relationship between thyroid dysfunction and clinically deep venous thrombosis (DVT). A pilot cross-sectional study aimed at assessing the frequency of overt and subclinical thyroid dysfunction patients with DVT was carried out. Fifty consecutive adult outpatients with a previous diagnosis of provoked DVT (pDVT), and 50 consecutive adult outpatients with a previous diagnosis unprovoked DVT (unDVT),both of the lower legs,who were followed at the Thrombosis Unit of the University Hospital of Varese, Italy, were enrolled after written informed consent. Fifty subjects, in whom such a diagnosis could be ruled out, served as controls. In each patient serum free thyroxine (FT4), free triiodothyronine (FT3), thyrotropin (TSH), anti-thyroid peroxidase (AbTPO), and anti-thyroglobulin (AbTg) antibodies were assayed. Previously unrecognised subclinical hypothyroidism was diagnosed in seven (14.0%) unDVT patients, one (2%) pDVT patient, and one (2%) control (odds ratio at multivariate analysis, 5.54; 95% confidence interval, 0.6–52.6); one new case of subclinical hyperthyroidism was diagnosed in each group; only one case (in the control group) of clinical overt hyperthyroidism was observed. The prevalence of thyroid autoantibodies, including both euthyroid and subclinical hypothyroid patients, did not differ in the three groups.The results of this pilot study suggest an increased prevalence of subclinical hypothyroidism in patients with unDVT.The clinical relevance of these preliminary findings needs to be addressed in larger prospective studies.
The Participation of Mental Health Service Users in Ontario, Canada: A Canadian Application of the Consumer Participation Questionnaire
Authors: Grant Jill
Published: March 2007

Background: Ontario mental health policy calls for the participation of service users in mental health organizations, but no studies have examined the extent to which this is occurring.

Aims: This study measures the extent to which service users participate in Ontario, Canada community mental health organizations and measures the attitudes toward service user participation in planning and in employment.

Methods: Members of the Ontario Federation of Community Mental Health and Addictions Programs were invited to participate in a modified form of the Consumer Participation Questionnaire, created by Kent and Read (1998) for New Zealand.

Results: Participation in Ontario community mental health organizations was present in this order: planning, membership on boards of directors, attendance at staff training, policy, staff hiring, and teaching at staff training. Compared with New Zealand, the prevalence of participation was higher in Ontario, but attitudes toward participation were similar. The role with the highest prevalence of participation, planning, was the same for both locations.

Conclusions: An updated New Zealand study is called for, as is a more continuous method that includes various voices for measuring participation.
Mental Health Outcome Of Unilateral Lower Limb Amputee Soldiers In Two Districts Of Sri Lanka
Authors: Gunawardena Nalika , De A Senevirathne Rohini , Athauda Thamara
Published: March 2007

Background: Thousands of armed forces personnel in Sri Lanka have undergone lower limb amputations due to war injuries.

Aims: The aims were to describe the mental health outcome of unilateral lower limb amputee male soldiers of the Sri Lanka Army in comparison with nonamputee males and to identify factors affecting the mental health outcome.

Methodology: Selected amputee soldiers ( n = 461) and controls ( n = 461) were evaluated for psychological distress using self-administered versions of GHQ-30 and BSI. Alcohol and drug consumption patterns were compared. Probable addiction to alcohol and drugs were assessed using the CAGE questionnaire.

Results: A majority were below-knee amputees (413, 89.6%). Among amputee soldiers 36% were found to be psychologically distressed according to GHQ-30 while 13.4% were found to be psychologically distressed using BSI. Psychological distress was greater among amputee soldiers compared to controls (p < 0.001). Alcohol consumption and substance abuse were more common among amputees (p < 0.05), as was probable addiction to alcohol (p < 0.001). Being less than 30 years of age (OR =1.6, 95%CI(1.12–2.26)) was a factor influencing presence of psychological distress, characterized by psychological symptoms. Employment in the army adversely influenced psychological distress, characterized by psychological symptoms (OR = 2.35, 95%CI(2.0–3.64)) and by somatic symptoms (OR = 1.8, 95%CI(1.23–3.14)).

Conclusions: The study concluded that amputees have a comparatively poor mental health outcome, which could be improved by modifying some associated factors.
Long-Term Effects of Parenting and Family Characteristics on Delinquency of Male Young Adults
Authors: Hoeve Machteld , Smeenk Wilma , Loeber Rolf , Stouthamer-Loeber Magda , van der Laan Peter H. , Gerris Jan R. M. , Dubas Judith Semon
Published: March 2007

Drawing from the criminology literature and family studies, we investigated the long-term effects of established family risk factors and parenting styles on male young adult delinquency. We used data sets from two longitudinal studies, the Pittsburgh Youth Study ( N=474) and the Child-Rearing and Family in the Netherlands Study ( N=128), each with assessment periods covering at least 10 years. The lack of orderly and structured activities within the family during adolescence was a strong predictor of delinquency in young adulthood, once prior aggression and demographic variables were considered. No evidence was found for a relationship between authoritarian and authoritative parenting styles and later delinquency. Furthermore, previously identified family factors such as socioeconomic status, supervision, punishment and attachment were not related to delinquent behaviour in young adulthood.
Food Crime, Regulation and the Biotech Harvest
Authors: Walters Reece
Published: March 2007

This article focuses on the trade and regulatory practices of transgenic or genetically modified (GM) food, or what Pringle (2003) refers to as the ‘biotech harvest’. It explores issues of eco-crime and raises questions for environmental and transnational justice when corporations and government are complicit in acts of economic exploitation and illegality.
A CD99-related antigen on endothelial cells mediates neutrophil but not lymphocyte extravasation in vivo
Authors: Bixel M. Gabriele , Petri Björn , Khandoga Alexander G. , Khandoga Andrej , Wolburg-Buchholz Karen , Wolburg Hartwig , März Sigrid , Krombach Fritz , Vestweber Dietmar
Published: March 2007

CD99 is a long-known leukocyte antigen that does not belong to any of the known protein families. It was recently found on endothelial cells, where it mediates transendothelial migration of human monocytes and lymphocyte recruitment into inflamed skin in the mouse. Here, we show that CD99L2, a recently cloned, widely expressed antigen of unknown function with moderate sequence homology to CD99, is expressed on mouse leukocytes and endothelial cells. Using antibodies, we found that CD99L2 and CD99 are involved in transendothelial migration of neutrophils in vitro and in the recruitment of neutrophils into inflamed peritoneum. Intravital and electron microscopy of cremaster venules revealed that blocking CD99L2 inhibited leukocyte transmigration through the vessel wall (diapedesis) at the level of the perivascular basement membrane. We were surprised to find that, in contrast to CD99, CD99L2 was not relevant for the extravasation of lymphocytes into inflamed tissue. Although each protein promoted cell aggregation of transfected cells, endothelial CD99 and CD99L2 participated in neutrophil extravasation independent of these proteins on neutrophils. Our results establish CD99L2 as a new endothelial surface protein involved in neutrophil extravasation. In addition, this is the first evidence for a role of CD99 and CD99L2 in the process of leukocyte diapedesis in vivo.
Studies of c-Mpl function distinguish the replication of hematopoietic stem cells from the expansion of differentiating clones
Authors: Abkowitz Janis L. , Chen Jing
Published: March 2007

Three properties define hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs): their capacity for quiescence and long survival, their ability to self-renew, and their ability to give rise to a multilineage clone of differentiating and maturing blood cells. Although it is likely that different signals regulate these events, this has been difficult to dissect on a molecular level, since HSC division, their fate decisions, and the earliest differentiation events cannot be directly visualized. Our studies of c-Mpl, the cellular receptor for the cytokine thrombopoietin, suggest that c-Mpl does not control HSC numbers, as had been previously argued, but rather facilitates the early expansion of differentiating clones. These experiments provide a strategy to distinguish the actions of HSCs from earliest progenitor cells in vivo and demonstrate that a selective growth advantage at a level distal to HSC can result in a profound effect on multilineage hematopoiesis.