bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cost‐effectiveness evaluation of clobetasol propionate shampoo (CPS) maintenance in patients with moderate scalp psoriasis: a Pan‐European analysis
Authors: Papp K. , Poulin Y. , Barber K. , Lynde C. , Prinz J.C. , Berg M. , Kerrouche N. , Rives V.P.
Published: October 2011

Background  Scalp psoriasis is a difficult to treat and usually chronic manifestation of psoriasis. The CalePso study showed that CPS (Clobex® Shampoo) in maintenance therapy of scalp psoriasis (twice weekly) significantly increases the probability of keeping patient under remission during 6 months, compared with vehicle (40.3% relapses vs. 11.6% relapses, ITT).

Objective  The objective of the study was to assess the cost‐effectiveness of a maintenance therapy with CPS vs. its vehicle in nine European countries.

Methods  A 24‐week decision tree model was developed with 4‐weekly time steps. The considered population has moderate scalp psoriasis successfully treated with a daily application of CPS up to 4 weeks. Data were taken from the CalePso study and from national experts’ recommendations for alternative treatment choices, with their probabilities of success taken from literature to develop country‐specific models. Health benefits are measured in disease‐free days (DFD). The economic analysis includes drug and physician costs. A probabilistic sensitivity analysis (PrSA) assesses the uncertainty of the model.

Results  Depending on the country, the mean total number of DFDs per patient is 21–42% higher with CPS compared with vehicle, and the mean total cost is 11–31% lower. The mean costs per DFD are 30–46% lower with CPS compared with the vehicle. The PrSA showed in 1000 simulations that CPS is more effective vs. vehicle in 100% of the cases and less expensive than its vehicle in 80–99% of the cases.

Conclusion  This model suggests that CPS is cost‐effective in maintaining the success achieved in moderate scalp psoriasis patients.
Reliability and validity of the Japanese version of the Agitated Behaviour in Dementia Scale in Alzheimer's disease: three dimensions of agitated behaviour in dementia
Authors: TORII Katsuyoshi , NAKAAKI Shutaro , BANNO Koichi , MURATA Yoshie , SATO Junko , TATSUMI Hiroshi , YAMANAKA Katsuo , NARUMOTO Jin , MIMURA Masaru , AKECHI Tatsuo , FURUKAWA Toshi A.
Published: October 2011

Background:  Agitation in dementia seriously affects not only patients' quality of life (QOL), but also caregivers' QOL. Thus, an appropriate assessment of agitated behaviour in dementia is needed for clinical management. We developed the Japanese version of the Agitated Behaviour in Dementia scale (ABID), examined its reliability and validity, and carried out its factor analysis to elucidate its factor structure.

Methods:  The Japanese version of the ABID was given caregivers of 149 Japanese patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD). The internal‐consistency, test–retest reliability and concurrent validity of the Japanese version of the ABID were then examined. A factor analysis was used to examine the agitated behavioural dimensions underlying ABID.

Results:  The Japanese version of the ABID showed an excellent internal reliability for both frequency ratings (Cronbach's α= 0.89) and reaction ratings (Cronbach's α= 0.92), and an excellent test–retest reliability for both frequency ratings and reaction ratings. The total score for the frequency ratings of the ABID was significantly associated with the Cohen‐Mansfield Agitation Inventory (CMAI), and the total score for the reaction ratings of the ABID was significantly associated with the Zarit Burden Interview. The factor analysis showed three subtypes: physically agitated behaviour, verbally agitated behaviour and psychosis symptoms.

Conclusions:  The Japanese version of the ABID promises to be useful for assessing agitated behaviour in patients with AD. Importantly, understanding these subtypes of agitated behaviour might have implications for individualized treatment plans.
Recurrent cholecystitis in an elderly mentally retarded patient with pica
Authors: MIYAKAWA Koichi , ITO Masanobu , HATTA Kotaro , ETO Ko , ARAI Heii
Published: October 2011

The case of a 64‐year‐old patient with pica and severe mental retardation who was admitted to our hospital for treatment of recurrent cholecystitis is reported. Abdominal ultrasound showed sludge in the gallbladder, but no stones. Abdominal CT revealed a foreign body in the duodenum resembling a suction cup of the type commonly used in kitchens and bathrooms. The object could not be removed because it was deeply embedded in the hypertrophic intestinal mucosa. A nasogastric tube was inserted for feeding, since the object impeded the passage of solid foods. The patient's fever and abdominal pain subsequently resolved, and laboratory data improved. The indwelling feeding tube prevented recurrence of cholecystitis. Since pica is common not only in patients with mental retardation but also in dementia patients, the present case may also relate to the treatment of acute abdominal conditions in dementia patients.
A Reconstruction for the Late Paleozoic Tectonic Evolution of the Tekes Daban Area, Western Tianshan Mountains: Evidence from Unconformities
Authors: LI Yongjun , YANG Gaoxue , WANG Xiaogang , ZHANG Tianji , LIU Xiaoyu , YANG Mingyi , TONG Liming
Published: October 2011

The identification of unconformities is the key to reconstructing tectonic evolution, revealing crust movement and establishing tectonic cycle. For a long time, there were some controversial issues on the episodes of Variscan cycle (especially on the period of Carboniferous‐Permian stages) of the Tianshan area. The essential questions fall on the numbers and property of unconformities in this area, for example, in the western Tianshan area. Previous research only recognized three or four fold movements. Detailed regional geological mapping of 1:50000 in the Tekes Daban area, western Tianshan have allowed us to characterize the seven unconformities within the Carboniferous‐Permian strata and understand its implications for tectonic reconstruction of the Tianshan orogen. Seven angular unconformities, which indicate that seven tectonic episodes occurred in the Late Paleozoic Period, were identified in this area. Therein, the newly discovered unconformities based on the angle‐unconformity between the Dongtujinhe and Keguqinshan Formations, and angle‐unconformity between the Wulansayi and Wulang Formations, respectively indicates the Tekes episode and Gongliu episode. The unconformity between the Dongtujinhe and Yishijilike Formations is angle‐unconformity instead of parallel unconformity indentified by previous research, so the former Bogda ascending can be revised as Bogda movement. Therefore, these newly identified seven episodes, including the Tekes episode, suggest that there are seven tectonic movements in the Tianshan area at least. This has significant implications for reconstruction of the Late Paleozoic tectonics in the Tianshan Area, NW China.
Water Role and Its Influence on Hydrogen Isotopic Composition of Natural Gas during Gas Generation
Authors: LI Jijun , LU Shuangfang , WU Wei , XUE Haitao , XU Qingxia , GENG Jie , YU Yinghua
Published: October 2011

In order to discuss the role and influence of water during the generation of natural gas, the participation mechanism of water during the evolution of organic matter and its influences were summarized. In addition, we carried out an anhydrous cracking experiment of oil extracted from the Feixianguan Formation source rock in a closed system, which led to the establishment of the kinetic models for describing carbon and hydrogen isotopic fractionation during gas generation from organic matter. The models were calibrated and then applied to the northeastern Sichuan Basin. By combining a series of gas generation experiments from octadecane pyrolysis without water or with distilled water in varying mass proportions, several results were proved: (1) the hydrogen isotopic composition of natural gas becomes lighter with the participation of formation water; (2) we can quantitatively study the hydrogen isotopic fractionation with the kinetic model for describing carbon isotopic fractionation; (3) more abundant and reliable geological information can be obtained through the combined application of carbon and hydrogen isotopic indices.
Quick and simple method for increasing the reduced albumin fraction in human serum albumin preparations by using stronger neo‐minophagen C
Authors: Sakata Masahiro , Kawaguchi Takumi , Taniguchi Eitaro , Abe Mitsuhiko , Koga Hironori , Sata Michio
Published: October 2011

Aim:  Serum albumin exists in both oxidized and reduced forms. Reduced albumin shows higher antioxidative effects; however, the percentage of reduced albumin is low in human serum albumin (HSA) preparation. Stronger neo‐minophagen C (SNMC) containing cysteine, a nucleophilic amino acid, has the potential to control the redox state of albumin. The aim of this study was to develop a method for increasing the fraction of reduced albumin in HAS preparation using SNMC.

Methods:  Human serum albumin preparations were purchased from four different manufacturers. As a reducing agent, SNMC (50, 100, or 200 µL) was added to 62.5 mg of each HSA preparation, and the mixture was incubated at room temperature for 10–480 min. The percentages of reduced albumin were determined by high‐performance liquid chromatography.

Results:  The percentage of reduced albumin in the HSA preparation significantly increased 15 min after treatment with 200 µL of SNMC (manufacturer A; 27.7 ± 0.18% vs. 78.7 ± 0.36%, P < 0.01), and a dose‐dependent relationship was observed between the increase in the percentage of reduced albumin and dose of SNMC. Similar results were obtained with the other three HSA preparations. The percentage of reduced albumin reached its peak at 15 min after mixing SNMC with an HSA preparation, and then gradually decreased with duration, irrespective of the dose of SNMC.

Conclusions:  We devised a method for increasing the reduced albumin fraction in an HSA preparation by using SNMC. We also determined the time‐and dose‐differences in the effect of SNMC on redox state of HSA.
Transcending Nationalist Divides: Religious Reconciliation as the Basis for a One‐State Solution in Israel/Palestine
Authors: Wender Andrew M.
Published: October 2011

Nationalism's inability to yield peacefully coexisting forms of political identity in Israel/Palestine has persisted for more than a century. This is so whether one refers to strands of secular nationalism that composed predominating, modern historical foundations for Israeli and Palestinian political consciousness, or subsequent forms of nationalism that have become intertwined, ever more, with religion. Further, nationalism's failure to foster a way out of the Israel/Palestine impasse infects not only the familiar (but increasingly problematic) “two‐state” solution but also the contested (but perhaps more productive) “one‐state” solution.

The one‐state solution has tended to involve a secular approach, for example, the binational variety emblematized by Edward Said, or, alternatively, a nonbinary democratic state where equal citizenship is not contingent on distinct forms of identity. However, the untapped promise of the one‐state solution could be better actualized with ingredients for the construction of citizenship that, in a real, spiritual sense, transcend the limiting divisions of nationalism. Specifically, shared religious roots, including the modes of reconciliation integral to the three Abrahamic traditions—Judaism, Christianity, and Islam—most directly ensnared within the Israel/Palestine bind might offer a more fruitful basis for coexistence.
The Turkish–Armenian Rapprochment Processes: A Case Study Approach
Authors: Kalpakian Jack , Ipek Volkan
Published: October 2011

Using a case study approach, this study examines Turkish and Armenian attempts at constructing a more positive relationship. It argues that the two countries need to look at what binds them in a web of mutual responsibility toward each other as states first. The only legal link between the two countries is the Treaty of Kars, which updated an earlier treaty. Given that the TARC and the Turkish–Armenian accords were both failures, this article argues that Armenia and Turkey need to litigate their differences on the basis of their only binding agreement.
Effects of Mixing Using Side Port Air Injection on a Biomass Fluidized Bed
Authors: Deza M. , Heindel T. J. , Battaglia F.
Published: October 2011

Fluidized beds are being used in practice to gasify biomass to create producer gas, a flammable gas that can be used for process heating. However, recent literature has identified the need to better understand and characterize biomass fluidization hydrodynamics, and has motivated the combined experimental-numerical effort in this work. A cylindrical reactor is considered and a side port is introduced to inject air and promote mixing within the bed. Comparisons between the computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations with experiments indicate that three-dimensional simulations are necessary to capture the fluidization behavior of the more complex geometry. This paper considers the effects of increasing side port air flow on the homogeneity of the bed material in a 10.2 cm diameter fluidized bed filled with 500-600 μm ground walnut shell particles. The use of two air injection ports diametrically opposed to each other is also modeled using CFD to determine their effects on fluidization hydrodynamics. Whenever possible, the simulations are compared to experimental data of time-average local gas holdup obtained using X-ray computed tomography. This study will show that increasing the fluidization and side port air flows contribute to a more homogeneous bed. Furthermore, the introduction of two side ports results in a more symmetric gas-solid distribution.
Numerical Evaluation of Stiffness and Energy Absorption of a Hybrid Unidirectional/Random Glass Fiber Composite
Authors: Yang Wensong , Pelegri Assimina A.
Published: October 2011

A finite element method is employed to numerically evaluate the stiffness and energy absorption properties of an architecturally hybrid composite material consisting of unidirectional and random glass fiber layers. An ls-dyna finite element model of a composite hollow square tube is developed in which the position of the random fiber layers varies through the thickness. The assessment of the stiffness and energy absorption is performed via three-point impact and longitudinal crash tests at two speeds, 15.6 m/s (35 mph) and 29.0 m/s (65 mph), and five strain rates, ɛ· = 0.1 s−1, 1 s−1, 10 s−1, 20 s−1, and 40 s−1. It is suggested that strategic positioning of the random fiber microstructural architecture into the hybrid composite increases its specific absorption energy and, therefore, enhances its crashworthiness. The simulation data indicate that the composite structure with outer layers of unidirectional lamina followed by random fiber layers is the stiffest due to the considerable superior specific energy absorption of the random fiber micro-architecture. Moreover, it is illustrated that the specific energy absorption increases with the increased ratio of impact contact area over cross-section area. Of all the parameters tested the thickness of the unidirectional laminate on the specific energy absorption does not appear to have a significant effect at the studied thickness ratios.
Fabrication of a blue organic light-emitting diode with a novel thermal deposition boat
Authors: Lee Sangmin , Tang Ching W.
Published: October 2011

A highly efficient blue phosphorescent organic light emitting diode (PhOLED) is fabricated by using a novel thermal deposition boat. The boat has two unique features: indirect deposition rate control and fast rate response. With these features, a compact combinatorial evaporation source module is constructed, which utilizes only limited space and enables the fabrication of OLED devices of complex architectures. The deposition rate using this newly designed boat can be controlled within 5% accuracy and the rate response is sufficiently fast that it is particularly useful for producing emitting layers with a linearly graded composition. Two blue PhOLED devices with different architecture in the emitting layer are fabricated with the new boat. The device with a linearly graded mixed host shows higher efficiency than the device with a uniformly mixed one, indicating the advantage of gradual interface change.
Megavoltage cone beam CT near surface dose measurements: potential implications for breast radiotherapy
Authors: Quinn Alexandra , Holloway Lois , Cutajar Dean , Hardcastle Nicholas , Rosenfeld Anatoly , Metcalfe Peter
Published: October 2011

Purpose:

Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) is fast becoming standard on modern linear accelerators. CBCT increases the dose to regions within and outside the treatment field, potentially increasing secondary cancer induction and toxicity. This study quantified megavoltage (MV) CBCT skin dose and compared it to skin dose delivered during standard tangential breast radiotherapy.

Method:

Dosimetry was performed both in‐ and out‐of‐field using thermoluminescent dosimeters (TLDs) and a metal‐oxide‐semiconductor‐field‐effect‐transistor (MOSFET) detector specifically designed for skin dosimetry; these were placed superficially on a female anthropomorphic phantom.

Results:

The skin dose from a single treatment fraction ranged from 0.5 to 1.4 Gy on the ipsilateral breast, 0.031–0.18 Gy on the contralateral breast, and 0–0.02 Gy in the head and pelvic region. An 8 MU MV CBCT delivered a skin dose that ranged from 0.02 to 0.05 Gy in the chest region and was less than 0.01 Gy in the head and pelvis regions. One MV CBCT per fraction was found to increase the out‐of‐field skin dose from both the CBCT and the treatment fields by approximately 20%. The imaging dose as a percentage of treatment doses in the ipsilateral breast region was 3% for both dosimeters.

Conclusion:

Imaging increases the skin dose to regions outside the treatment field particularly regions immediately adjacent the target volume. This small extra dose to the breasts should be considered when developing clinical protocols and assessing dose for clinical trials.
Asteroid 21 Lutetia: Low Mass, High Density
Authors: Pätzold M. , Andert T. P. , Asmar S. W. , Anderson J. D. , Barriot J.-P. , Bird M. K. , Häusler B. , Hahn M. , Tellmann S. , Sierks H. , Lamy P. , Weiss B. P.
Published: October 2011

A spacecraft flyby of an asteroid reveals a high-density body that is more like a planetesimal than a rubble pile.
BRCA1 Tumor Suppression Depends on BRCT Phosphoprotein Binding, But Not Its E3 Ligase Activity
Authors: Shakya Reena , Reid Latarsha J. , Reczek Colleen R. , Cole Francesca , Egli Dieter , Lin Chyuan-Sheng , deRooij Dirk G. , Hirsch Steffen , Ravi Kandasamy , Hicks James B. , Szabolcs Matthias , Jasin Maria , Baer Richard , Ludwig Thomas
Published: October 2011

The properties of breast cancer susceptibility protein required for tumor suppression have been explored.
The Underlying Issue
Mother
Caring for 7 Billion

Christophe Fauchere, director

Tiroir A Films Productions, Denver, CO, 2011. 55 minutes. www.motherthefilm.com
Authors: Vignieri Sacha
Published: October 2011

The film encourages viewers to engage with the consequences of the continuing increase in our numbers.
Dismay, Confusion Greet Human Stem Cell Patent Ban
Authors: Vogel Gretchen
Published: October 2011

The European Union's Court of Justice ruled last week that processes and products that involve human embryonic stem cells are not patentable.
U.K. Scientific Papers Rank First in Citations
Authors: Marshall Eliot , Travis John
Published: October 2011

Two reports out last week confirm the United Kingdom's reputation for achieving a wide scientific impact with a relatively modest use of public funds.
Step by Step, NIF Researchers Trek Toward the Light
Authors: Clery Daniel
Published: October 2011

Like wilderness explorers, physicists at the National Ignition Facility seek the most direct path to their goal: an implosion that releases more energy than it consumes.
SYBR Green-Based Real-Time Reverse Transcription-PCR for Typing and Subtyping of All Hemagglutinin and Neuraminidase Genes of Avian Influenza Viruses and Comparison to Standard Serological Subtyping Tests
Authors: Tsukamoto Kenji , Javier Panei Carlos , Shishido Makiko , Noguchi Daigo , Pearce John , Kang Hyun-Mi , Jeong Ok Mi , Lee Youn-Jeong , Nakanishi Koji , Ashizawa Takayoshi
Published: October 2011

Continuing outbreaks of H5N1 highly pathogenic (HP) avian influenza virus (AIV) infections of wild birds and poultry worldwide emphasize the need for global surveillance of wild birds. To support the future surveillance activities, we developed a SYBR green-based, real-time reverse transcriptase PCR (rRT-PCR) for detecting nucleoprotein (NP) genes and subtyping 16 hemagglutinin (HA) and 9 neuraminidase (NA) genes simultaneously. Primers were improved by focusing on Eurasian or North American lineage genes; the number of mixed-base positions per primer was set to five or fewer, and the concentration of each primer set was optimized empirically. Also, 30 cycles of amplification of 1:10 dilutions of cDNAs from cultured viruses effectively reduced minor cross- or nonspecific reactions. Under these conditions, 346 HA and 345 NA genes of 349 AIVs were detected, with average sensitivities of NP, HA, and NA genes of 10
1.5
, 10
2.3
, and 10
3.1
50% egg infective doses, respectively. Utility of rRT-PCR for subtyping AIVs was compared with that of current standard serological tests by using 104 recent migratory duck virus isolates. As a result, all HA genes and 99% of the NA genes were genetically subtyped, while only 45% of HA genes and 74% of NA genes were serologically subtyped. Additionally, direct subtyping of AIVs in fecal samples was possible by 40 cycles of amplification: approximately 70% of HA and NA genes of NP gene-positive samples were successfully subtyped. This validation study indicates that rRT-PCR with optimized primers and reaction conditions is a powerful tool for subtyping varied AIVs in clinical and cultured samples.
Disseminated Mycobacterium chelonae Infection in a Patient Receiving an Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Inhibitor for Advanced Head and Neck Cancer
Authors: Bark Charles M. , Traboulsi Rana S. , Honda Kord , Starnes Autumn M. , Jacobs Michael R. , Rodriguez Benigno
Published: October 2011

We report a case of disseminated cutaneous
Mycobacterium chelonae
infection in a patient with head and neck cancer on salvage chemotherapy, including the epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitor cetuximab.
Mycobacterium chelonae
should be considered in the differential diagnosis of cutaneous infections in cancer patients receiving epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitors.
Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification Assays for Detecting Shiga Toxin-Producing Escherichia coli in Ground Beef and Human Stools
Authors: Wang Fei , Jiang Lin , Ge Beilei
Published: October 2011

Shiga toxin-producing
Escherichia coli
(STEC), encompassing
E. coli
O157 and non-O157 STEC, is a significant cause of food-borne illnesses and deaths in the United States and worldwide. Shiga toxins (encoded by
stx
) and intimin (encoded by
eae
) are important virulence factors for STEC strains linked to severe human illnesses such as hemorrhagic colitis and hemolytic-uremic syndrome. In this study, the
stx
1
,
stx
2
, and
eae
genes were chosen as targets to design loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) assays for the rapid, specific, sensitive, and quantitative detection of STEC strains. The assay performances in pure culture and spiked ground beef and human stools were evaluated and compared with those of quantitative PCR (qPCR). No false-positive or false-negative results were observed among 90 bacterial strains used to evaluate assay specificity. The limits of detection for seven STEC strains of various serogroups (O26, O45, O103, O111, O121, O145, and O157) were approximately 1 to 20 CFU/reaction in pure culture and 10
3
to 10
4
CFU/g in spiked ground beef, which were comparable to the results of qPCR. Standard curves generated suggested good linear relationships between STEC cell numbers and LAMP turbidity signals. When applied in ground beef samples spiked with two low levels (1 to 2 and 10 to 20 CFU/25 g) of STEC cultures, the LAMP assays achieved accurate detection after 6 to 8 h enrichment. The assays also consistently detected STEC in human stool specimens spiked with 10
3
or 10
4
CFU/0.5 g stool after 4 h enrichment, while qPCR required 4 to 6 h. In conclusion, the LAMP assays developed in this study may facilitate rapid and reliable identification of STEC contaminations in high-risk food commodities and also facilitate prompt diagnosis of STEC infections in clinical laboratories.
A Vaccinia Virus-Driven Interplay between the MKK4/7-JNK1/2 Pathway and Cytoskeleton Reorganization
Authors: Pereira Anna C. T. C. , Leite Flávia G. G. , Brasil Bruno S. A. F. , Soares-Martins Jamaria A. P. , Torres Alice A. , Pimenta Paulo F. P. , Souto-Padrón Thaïs , Traktman Paula , Ferreira Paulo C. P. , Kroon Erna G. , Bonjardim Cláudio A.
Published: October 2011

Viral manipulation of transduction pathways associated with key cellular functions such as survival, response to microbial infection, and cytoskeleton reorganization can provide the supportive milieu for a productive infection. Here, we demonstrate that vaccinia virus (VACV) infection leads to activation of the stress-activated protein kinase (SAPK)/extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) 4/7 (MKK4/7)–c-Jun N-terminal protein kinase 1/2 (JNK1/2) pathway; further, the stimulation of this pathway requires postpenetration, prereplicative events in the viral replication cycle. Although the formation of intracellular mature virus (IMV) was not affected in MKK4/7- or JNK1/2-knockout (KO) cells, we did note an accentuated deregulation of microtubule and actin network organization in infected JNK1/2-KO cells. This was followed by deregulated viral trafficking to the periphery and enhanced enveloped particle release. Furthermore, VACV infection induced alterations in the cell contractility and morphology, and cell migration was reduced in the JNK-KO cells. In addition, phosphorylation of proteins implicated with early cell contractility and cell migration, such as microtubule-associated protein 1B and paxillin, respectively, was not detected in the VACV-infected KO cells. In sum, our findings uncover a regulatory role played by the MKK4/7-JNK1/2 pathway in cytoskeleton reorganization during VACV infection.
Control of the stirred flow reactor in unstable state control through step changes in the volume of the reaction mixture
Authors: Horák Josef , Jiráček František , Sojková Zina
Published: October 2011

Possibilities of the control of an adiabatic stirred flow reactor with an exothermic first order reaction in unstable state are studied. The control is studied both on the linearized mathematical model and on the model reaction of oxidation by hydrogen peroxide catalyzed by ferric ions. The control is based on step changes in the volume of the reaction mixture at constant conditions at the reactor inlet. The aim is stabilization of the outlet degree of conversion of the reactant. From the theoretical study on the mathematical model resulted that control of the reactor by step changes of the volume can be a very simple and effective method of control in the unstable steady state. The results of theoretical studies have been verified experimentally.
Statistical pressure characteristics in modelling of gas-liquid reactors
Authors: Čermák Jan , Kaštánek František , Havlíček Antonín
Published: October 2011

The integral characteristics (average porosity and product kLa) and the fluctuating component of static pressure inside the gas-liquid system were measured in two types of column reactors with different gas distributors. It has been determined that at the same gas velocity in the reactor with a Venturi tube as the gas distributor the mean porosities are about 1.5 times greater than with the sieve plate reactor. To this corresponds, especially, at small gas flow rates even higher ratio of coefficients kLa. Standard deviation of pressure fluctuations becomes with the Venturi tube reactor for orders of magnitude greater then with the sieve plate reactor. The analysis of pressure fluctuations has demonstrated that in the reactor with the Venturi tube the decisive portion of fluctuation output corresponds to frequencies within the band 10-30 Hz, while in the reactor with the given type of the sieve plate to the band 0-10 Hz. In the reactor with the Venturi tube formation of surface waving has no considerable effect on flow of the gas phase, though the amplitudes in both types of reactors are comparable.
The emission spectroscopy of some elements in high-temperature flames
Authors: Pištěková Marie , Jambor Jaroslav , Otruba Vítězslav , Sommer Lumír
Published: October 2011

The emission of atoms of a large number of elements in laminar high-temperature acetylene-N2O, H2-N2O, H2-O2, acetylene-air, and H2-air flames was studied; of these the most suitable are flame mixtures containing N2O. Methods were developed for determining Ca, Sr, Ba, for Cu, Cr, Mn and Ni in steels and for Cu, Fe, Mn and Ni in aluminium alloys using an acetylene-N2O flame. A small chemical interference for the matrix elements was found provided that a monochromator with good resolution and with a small amount of scattered light was employed. These conditions are fulfilled by most modern atomic absorption instruments with which comparable results are obtained.
Quantitative relationships between structure and fibrinolytic activity in the series of α-methyl-β-arylpropionic acids
Authors: Kuchař Miroslav , Rejholec Václav , Roubal Zdeněk , Němeček Oldřich
Published: October 2011

A series of α-methyl-β-arylpropionic acids I was prepared both by hydrogenation of corresponding α-methylcinnamic esters and by decarboxylation of α-carboxy-α-methyl-β-arylpropionic acids. The substances were tested in the form of cyclohexylammonium salts as activators of fibrinolysis and inhibitors of heat denaturation of serum albumin. Similarly as in the series of isomeric β-aryl-n-butyric acids correlation analysis indicated that both activities are mainly affected by the lipophilic character of the aromatic substituents and that the electronic effects are statistically insignificant. From the comparison of the regression relationships in both series of acids it is evident that neither activity is affected by a change in the structure of the side chain. For the estimation of the lipophilicity of 3,4-dialkoxy derivatives the parameters π were used which were obtained by reverse phase partition chromatography on silica gel thin layer.
Hog pancreatic α-amylase. Preparation and characterization
Authors: Kluh Ivan
Published: October 2011

Crystalline α-amylase (EC 3.2.1.1) was prepared from hog pancreas. The preparation obtained was resolved into two isozymes by chromatography on DEAE-cellulose. The molecular weight (51 500), amino acid composition, and terminal groups of both isozymes were determined. Both isozymes have a single polypeptide chain containing 460-465 amino acid residues. The amino acid composition of both isozymes is similar. None of them has a free N-terminal end group. Both isozymes are C-terminated with leucine. The molecule of each isozyme is cross-linked by 5 disulfide bonds and contains two sulfhydryl groups.
On the synthesis of the compound Ge3Bi2S6
Authors: Juříček Vítězslav , Frumar Miloslav
Published: October 2011

The preparation of the recently reported compound Ge3Bi2S6 was studied. From the results of differential thermal analysis and Debye-Scherrer and microstructural analyses it follows that no compound Ge3Bi2S6 is formed in the system GeS-Bi2S3. Heterogeneous mixtures, predominantly of germanium disulfide and metallic bismuth, resulted from all syntheses.
The stability constants of copper(I) phosphineacetates
Authors: Podlahová Jana , Podlaha Jaroslav
Published: October 2011

Systems containing univalent copper, phosphineacetic acid HnL with the general formula Ph3-nP(CH2COOH)n (n = 1-3) and acetonitrile in a concentration necessary for stabilizing free copper(I) were studied by potentiometry with copper amalgam and glass indicating electrodes. The measurements were carried out in water and in 50 v/v % dioxan at 25 °C and I = 0.1 (NaClO4). Consecutive formation of complexes with CuI : Ln- = 1 : 1, 1 : 2, 1 : 3 and 1 : 4, whose stability decreases slightly with an increasing number of acetate groups in the ligand and from 50% dioxan to water, was found in all systems. In these complexes the ligands are coordinated through the phosphorus atom alone. The acetonitrile completes the coordination sphere of copper in complexes with L/Cu < 4.
The IR laser stimulated decomposition of 1,3-butadiene
Authors: Engst Pavel , Pola Josef , Horák Milan
Published: October 2011

Gaseous 1,3-butadiene (pressure range 600-700 Torr) gives under irradiation with cw CO2 laser (output power 18 W) products of dimerization and decomposition - 4-vinylcyclohexene, 1-butene and aromatic hydrocarbons. The observation indicates radical mechanism of the decomposition and manifests importance of the absorbed energy transfer through intermolecular collisions.
Fluorescence of some simple umbelliferone derivatives
Authors: Mikeš Vladimír
Published: October 2011

The absorption and fluorescence spectra of umbelliferone were studied; it was found that in the excited state the basicity of the α-pyrone part of the molecule increases to such an extent that it exceeds that of the phenolate oxygen of the molecule. This is responsible for the neutral nondissociated form of umbelliferone being only in nonpolar medium which prevents the dissociation of the phenolic group in the excited state. In nonpolar medium, umbelliferone behaves as a substance with closely lying π → π* and n → π* transitions. Hydrogen bonds affect the fluorescence of 7-methoxycoumarin so that the π → π* transition is preserved as the lowest excited singlet state.
Determination of the vapours of organic substances and inorganic aerosols in non-corrosive gases by gas chromatography; Quantitative dynamic sorption of vapours through a column of granulated sorbent - Mecklenburg's equation
Authors: Vaněček Miloslav , Waldman Michael
Published: October 2011

The conditions of quantitative dynamic sorption of organic solvent vapours from inert gases on a column (6 mm diameter) of granulated (1.0-1.2 mm) active charcoal were investigated. The dependence of the time of quantitative sorption on the height of the sorbent column, on physico-chemical properties and the concentration of adsorbate, and on the flow rate of the analyzed gas was followed by recording breakthrough curves. For the evaluation of the efficiency of sorbent columns the equation of dynamic inefficiency of the column was proposed by means of which Mecklenburg's equation was extended to the form enabling the calculation of minimum height of the sorbent bed for the required time of sampling at a given flow rate of the analyzed gas, maximum permissible flow rate of the analyzed gas for the required time of sampling by a column of a given height, and maximum permissible times of the sampling by a column of a given height, for a given flow rate of the analyzed gas. Maximum permissible times of vapour sampling of some organic solvents are calculated for concentrations Cg ⪬ 10-2Cg0, where Cg0 is the concentration corresponding to the saturated vapour pressure, a column 2 cm high (225 mg of active charcoal) for flow rates 50, 250, 500, and 1 000 cm3 min-1 and minimum height of the sorbent column for vapour sampling for the periods of 10, 20, 40 and 60 min for a flow rate of 500 3 min-1. Conditions are given for the determination of the vapours by sampling through a column 2 cm high.
Isolation of carboxypeptidase N by affinity chromatography on column of CNBr-activated Sepharose with immobilized antibody
Authors: Simonianová Eva , Petáková Marie
Published: October 2011

The isolation of rat serum carboxypeptidase N (EC 3.4.2.2) by affinity chromatography on a column of CNBr-activated Sepharose with immobilized antibody is described. The ligands used were either rabbit antiserum to rat carboxypeptidase N or the IgG fraction prepared from this serum. The coupling of the isolated antibodies to CNBr-activated Sepharose increased the capacity of the column approximately three times. The specific activity of the enzyme prepared by this method was 109-times higher than the activity of the serum. Analysis of the final product by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis showed carboxypeptidase N and traces of albumin.
Heat and momentum transfer in the wall region of a cylindrical vessel mixed by a turbine impeller
Authors: Fořt Ivan , Placek Jiří , Strek Frederyk , Jaworski Zdislaw , Karcz Joana
Published: October 2011

Velocity and temperature fields have been described in the wall region of a cylindrical vessel equipped with radial baffles mixed by a standard six-blade disc turbine impeller under the turbulent regime of the flow in a homogeneous Newtonian charge. The results of experiments offer conclusions regarding the mechanism of the turbulent flow in individual subregions of the wall region together with the method of description of the flow in these regions as a sequence of impinging wall turbulent streams. Based on the theory of analogy the results on the turbulent heat and momentum transfer have been compared and confirm validity of the Chilton-Colburn analogy in which the characteristic quantities for the calculation of the local friction factor are parameters of the wall region flow - the characteristic velocity and the characteristic thickness of the wall region.
The flow of liquid in a stream from the standard turbine impeller
Authors: Fořt Ivan , Möckel Hans-Otto , Drbohlav Jan , Hrach Miroslav
Published: October 2011

Profiles of the mean velocity have been analyzed in the stream streaking from the region of rotating standard six-blade disc turbine impeller. The profiles were obtained experimentally using a hot film thermoanemometer probe. The results of the analysis is the determination of the effect of relative size of the impeller and vessel and the kinematic viscosity of the charge on three parameters of the axial profile of the mean velocity in the examined stream. No significant change of the parameter of width of the examined stream and the momentum flux in the stream has been found in the range of parameters d/D ##m <0.25; 0.50> and the Reynolds number for mixing ReM ##m <2.90 . 101; 1 . 105>. However, a significant influence has been found of ReM (at negligible effect of d/D) on the size of the hypothetical source of motion - the radius of the tangential cylindrical jet - a. The proposed phenomenological model of the turbulent stream in region of turbine impeller has been found adequate for values of ReM exceeding 1.0 . 103.
Hydrosilylation of dialkenyl sulphides
Authors: Voronkov Michail G. , Chvalovský Václav , Kirpichenko Svetlana V. , Vlasova Natalia N. , Bolshakov Sergei T. , Kuncová Gabriela , Keiko Vladimir V. , Tsetlina Elena O.
Published: October 2011

Hydrosilylation of divinyl and diallyl sulphide by triethyl- and triethoxysilane catalyzed by H2PtCl6.6 H2O and [RhCl{P(C6H5)3}3] has been studied. With divinyl sulphide the addition of X3SiH (X = C2H5 or OC2H5) across the double bond proceeded to a negligible extent, the main reaction route being the cleavage of the =CH-S bond. The course of the reaction of diallyl sulphide depended strongly upon the catalyst and the starting silicon hydride. In the presence of both catalysts triethoxysilane adds to diallyl sulphide to form a mixture of both isomeric monoadducts (β and γ) in relative amounts depending upon the catalyst. Contrary to this, the γ-adduct is formed solely in the chloroplatinic acid catalyzed hydrosilylation of the above compound by triethylsilane whereas the cleavage of the C-S bond is predominant reaction in the presence of the rhodium catalyst. Some further side reactions are also reported.
Photolysis of quinonediazides in alcohols and in water
Authors: Řehák Viktor , Poskočil Jaroslav , Majer Jaroslav , Dvořáček Ivo
Published: October 2011

The photolysis of 9,10-phenanthrenequinonediazide and 1,2-naphthoquinonediazide derivatives was studied; the spectral changes occurring during the photolysis and the quantum yields for various excitation wavelengths were measured, the order of the reaction was determined, and the effect of the exciting radiation intensity on the photolysis rate was investigated. A likely explanation of the different quantum yields in water and in ethanol is presented.
ESR study of anion radicals produced in cathodic reduction of 2-furfural derivatives
Authors: Staško Andrej , Pelikán Peter , Tomanovič František , Pätoprstý Viliam
Published: October 2011

Furfural and its derivatives are reduced reversibly to the corresponding anion radicals during polarography in dimethylformamide. These radicals have been studied by ESR, and analysis of their spectra has been carried out. The calculated splitting constants and half-wave potentials (INDO method) agree well with the experiment. The maximum spin density of the unpaired electron has been found for the aldehydic proton of the furfural anion (aH = 1.01 mT), the values for the remaining protons of furane ring being smaller (aH3 = 0.115 mT, aH4 = 0.49 mT, and aH5 = 0.64 mT). Introduction of nitro group in 5 position of furfural results in a marked shift of spin density of the nitrogen atom (aN = 0.533 mT) and decrease of density at the aldehydic proton (aH = 0.334 mT). Chenges of half-wave potentials of the individual furfural derivatives correlate well with changes in the respective Hammett constants of the substituents.
Synthesis of phosphoramidate analogs of ribodinucleoside phosphates
Authors: Azhayev Alexei V. , Krayevsky Alexander A. , Smrt Jiří
Published: October 2011

Cytidine 5'-phosphate (Ia) reacts with 1,1'-carbonyldiimidazole under the formation of 2',3'-O-carbonylcytidine 5'-phosphorimidazolidate (IIa) which affords (by the action of 3'-amino-3'-deoxyadenosine (IIIa)) 3'-deoxyadenosine-3'-amidophosphoryl-(3' → 5')-cytidine (IVa) and (by the action of 3'-amino-3-deoxy-N6-dimethyladenosine (IIIc)) 3'-deoxy-N6-dimethyladenosine-3'-amidophosphoryl-(3' → 5')-cytidine (IVc). Starting from adenosine 5'-phosphate (Ib) and 3'-amino-3'-deoxycytidine (IIIb) or the substance IIIc, 3'-deoxycytidine-3'-amidophosphoryl-(3' → 5')-adenosine (IVb) or 3'-deoxy-N6-dimethyladenosine-3'-amidophosphoryl-(3' → 5')-adenosine (IVd) were prepared. 6-Azauridine (V) was transformed, by the action of triphenylphosphine, lithium azide and carbon tetrabromide, followed by the action of triphenylphosphine and ammonia, to 5'-amino-5'-deoxy-6-azauridine (VI). The substance VI was transformed by the action of 2',3'-O-carbonyl-adenosine 5'-phosphorimidazolidate (IIb), to adenylyl-(5' → 5')-5'-amino-5'-deoxy-6-azauridine (VII). The compound IVb is not degraded by snake venom and spleen phosphodiesterases and is degraded by pancreatic ribonuclease to adenosine and the compound IIIb. The compound VII is degraded by snake venom phosphodiesterase to adenosine and the compound VI.
Preparation of cellulose derivatives for affinity chromatography and immobilization of enzymes. Activation by epichlorohydrin
Authors: Kučera Jiří
Published: October 2011

Cellulose derivatives were prepared by bonding aliphatic and aromatic diamines and amino acids to cellulose via epichlorohydrin. The immobilization of enzymes on these derivatives was tested with amylase. The use of the cellulose derivatives in affinity chromatography was essayed in experiments with the bonding of p-chloromercuribenzoate and with affinity chromatography of amylolytic enzymes. The results are comparable with those obtained supports activated by cyanogen bromide.
Simultaneous correlation of vapour-liquid equilibrium and heats of mixing and prediction of excess heat capacities. The systems benzene-n-alcohols and cyclohexane-n-alcohols
Authors: Dohnal Vladimír , Vinš Jaroslav , Holub Robert
Published: October 2011

The Wilson, the enthalpic Wilson and the Orye equations were used for the simultaneous correlation of extensive data sets on VLE and heats of mixing of eight binary systems hydrocarbon-n-alcohol, viz. benzene-methanol, -ethanol, -n-propanol, -n-butanol, cyclohexane-ethanol, -n-propanol, -n-butanol and n-heptane-ethanol. The expected quadratic temperature dependence of parameters of these equations makes a good simultaneous description possible of excess free enthalpy and heat of mixing as a function of temperature. The Wilson equation gives demonstrably the best description of the experimental data. All the equations were as well used to predict excess heat capacities for the systems listed and the confidence intervals were estimated for the predicted results. The comparison with experimental data for four of these systems shows that the predicted excess heat capacities are in general in good agreement with the experiment; however, the Wilson equation yielded again the best results.
Zur Frage des zweiten und dritten Depassivierungspotentials bei der Lochfrasskorrosion des Eisens und seiner Legierungen
Authors: Toušek Jaromír
Published: October 2011

Gegenstand dieser Arbeit ist im Grund des Erloschens der Lochfrasskorrosion beim zweiten Depass vierungspotential und seinem neuerlichen Entstehen beim dritten Depassivierungspotential zu finden. Als Ursache der Anderung in der Lochfrassgeschwindigkeit beim zweiten Depassivierungspotential wird die Oxydation des nichtpassiven, die Oberflache der aktiven Lochfrassstellen bedeckenden Oxidfilms zu passiven angenommen. Die Oxydation ist bedingt durch an der Elektrodenoberflache adsorbierten Wassermolecule, die in der Hydratationssphare der Anionen gebunden sind. Beim dritten Depassivierungspotential sinkt mit Rucksicht auf die erhohte Adsorption die Geschwindigkeit dieser Oxydation auf den Nullwert, die Bildung des Passivfilms endet und der Lochfrass beginnt demzufolge wiederum einzusetzen.
Oxidation kinetics of trans-aqua-bis(ethylenediamine)-isothiocyanatocobalt(III) ion with peroxodisulphate
Authors: Volárová Olga , Holba Vladislav
Published: October 2011

Oxidation kinetics of trans-aqua-bis(ethylenediamine)cobalt(III) ion with peroxodisulphate have been investigated in 0.01M-HClO4 medium within the ionic strength and temperature intervals 0.0411 to 0.4415M and 315.5 to 336.9 K, respectively. From the temperature dependence of the rate constants extrapolated to zero ionic strength the extrapolated values of thermodynamic activation parameters have been calculated. The data obtained by investigation of the primary salt effect have been confronted with relations valid for ionic reactions.
A gas chromatographic study of the adsorption of alkanes and alkenes on graphitized thermal carbon black
Authors: Feltl Ladislav , Smolková Eva , Skurovcová Marcela
Published: October 2011

The adsorption of C5-C10 n-alkanes and 1-alkenes on Sterling MT graphitized thermal carbon black was studied over a temperature interval from 175 to 215 °C. Specific retention volumes Vg and Vs were calculated from the experimental retention times and the differential heats of adsorption were obtained by linear regression from their temperature dependence. The standard changes in the chemical potential and entropy were further calculated for the substances studied. The precision of the measurement of the chromatographic data was checked in relation to the precision and accuracy of the calculated thermodynamic quantities. On the basis of the experimental results, the effect of the adsorbate contribution to the thermodynamic adsorption quantities was evaluated and compared with theoretical assumptions.
Synthesis of [1-β-mercaptopropionic acid, 8-D-arginine]vasopressin (DDAVP) in solid phase. Simple optimalization
Authors: Krchňák Viktor , Zaoral Milan
Published: October 2011

A series of solid-phase syntheses of the protected precursor II of DDAVP was carried out. Experimental conditions were developed under which practically pure II can reproducibly be obtained in yields better than 60%. The protected precursors of DDAVP obtained by liquid- and solid-phase synthesis and DDAVP samples obtained from these precursors were undistinguishable by conventional analytical or pharmacological assays.