bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Role of Mitral Annular Systolic Velocity in The Evaluation of Left Atrial Appendage Function in Mitral Stenosis
Authors: Majumder AAS , Tanveer MS , Reza AQM , Chowdhury AW , Shahabuddin M
Published: August 2011

Background : Mitral stenosis (MS) is the most common valvular heart disease. Thromboembolism is one of the most important complications of MS, especially when it is associated with atrial fibrillation (AF).Patients with sinus rhythm (SR) are also sussceptible to this complication when it is associated with left atrial appendage (LAA) dysfunction .LAA dysfunction is an independent predictor of thromboembolism in mitral stenosis. Objectives: To investigate whether there is a relation between mitral annular velocities obtained by Doppler tissue imaging (DTI) and LAA function determined by transoesophageal echocardiography (TEE) and to determine if the annular velocities can predict the presence of the inactive LAA in MS. Methods: Sixty MS patients were evaluated by transthoracic echocardiography and all patients underwent transesophageal echocardiography. The annular systolic (S-wave) and diastolic (Emand Am-waves) velocities were recorded. Inactive LAA was defined as LAA emptying velocity <25 cm/sec. Patients were divided into three groups; group AI (n = 18): sinus rhythm (SR) and LAA emptying velocity e”25 cm/sec, group AII (n =22): SR and LAA emptying velocity <25cm/sec and group B (n = 20): atrial fibrillation. Results: Thrombus was detected in 14 patients and spontaneous echo contrast (SEC) was detected in 48 patients. Both S-wave and peak LAA emptying velocities were decreasing, while SEC frequency and density were increasing from group A to group B. There was a positive correlation between LAA emptying vs. S-wave and LAA emptying vs. Am velocities (p < 0.001, r = 0.708 and p< 0.001, r=0.495). Multivariate regression analysis showed that only S-wave is the independent predictor of inactive LAA (p = 0.001, odds ratio = 0.133, 95% CI = 0.032–0.556). In patients with SR, the cutoff value of S-wave was 14 cm/sec for the prediction of the presence of inactive LAA (sensitivity: 92.3%, specificity: 95.3%). Conclusions: S-wave is an independent predictor of inactive LAA and a useful parameter in estimating inactive LAA in MS with SR.. Key words: Mitral stenosis, Left atrial appendage function, Annular systolic velocityDOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/cardio.v1i1.8201 Cardiovasc. j. 2008; 1(1) : 26-33
Carotid Duplex Ultrasound Findings in Patients with Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)- A Study in 50 Cases
Authors: Bari MS , Kabir MS , Ali MA , Alam SAN , Majumder AAS , Mohibullah AKM , Islam MN
Published: August 2011

Background: Patients with angina pectoris or myocardial infarction are more likely to experience stroke. Ischaemic stroke has been found to develop in approximately 2-5% of patients in the first 1- 2 weeks after myocardial infarction Methods: Fifty patients with coronary artery disease admitted to the National Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases (NICVD), Dhaka, were screened for presence of carotid atherosclerosis by duplex ultrasound study during the period of July 98 to August 98. Results: Carotid lesion were found in 34 patients (68%) and normal carotids found in 16 patients (32%). Age range of patients with and without carotid lesions was 56±5.39 yrs and 47±7.91 yrs respectively. Out of 34 patients, 30 were male (88.2%) and 4 were female (11.7%). 29 patients (85.3%) were smokers, 22 patients (64.7%) were hypertensive and 9 patients (26.4%) were diabetic. Dyslipidaemia was found in 16 patients (47%) and a history of transient ischaemic attack (TIA) was found in 10 patients (29.4%). A coexistent CAD on coronary (CAG) was found in 31 patients (91.1%). Conclusion: Cortaid duplex ultrasound study findings of atherosclerotic lesions in Carotid arteries are good predictors of CAD.Keywords: Carotid atherosclerosis, Carotid duplex ultrasound, Coronary artery disease. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/cardio.v1i1.8203 Cardiovasc. j. 2008; 1(1) : 44-47
Short Term Outcome of Patients with Acute Myocardial Infarction Preceded by Angina
Authors: Ahmed AFK , Choudhury AK , Khan A , Ali M , Zaher A
Published: August 2011

Background: It has been reported that acute myocardial infarction preceded by angina has favorable short term outcome. To validate this in our setting, this study was undertaken in National Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases. Method: This is a prospective and observational study. 100 patients were evaluated for the short term outcomes of patients of AMI preceded by angina. Result : Observation showed that patients of AMI preceded by angina has less damage of the myocardium as evident by lower CK-MB values and better preservation of left ventricular function. It has also been shown that early complications like death, VT & VF, asystole, CHB, acute LVF, cardiogenic shock were significantly lower in patients of AMI preceded by angina than those without angina. Conclusion: It is observed that incidence of previous angina is an important independent predictor of outcome of the patients with myocardial infarction. Key words: AMI, Angina, Ischaemic heart Disease DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/cardio.v1i1.8204 Cardiovasc. j. 2008; 1(1):48-52
Diagnostic and Therapeutic Value of Cardiac Scan: First Experience of Utility and Prosfect of MPI in Bangladesh
Authors: Azam A , Majumder AAS , Hossain N , Ahsan NAK , Jahan WA , Sabur A , Ahmed S , Khan JH , Chowdhury AW , Mohibullah AKM
Published: August 2011

Background: Cardiac Scan (MP-SPECT) is a widely utilized noninvasive imaging modality for diagnosis, prognosis, and risk stratification of coronary artery disease. In Bangladesh it is a recently introduced test and there is no study upon it. Considering this ground the study is perform on Bangladeshi patients. Methods: 100 referral patients underwent MPI for evaluation of perfusion status of myocardium. The patients either of suspected IHD or diagnosed case of IHD were referred from different cardiology unit or surgery unit of NICVD. Technetium 99m (99"Tc) isotopes and tetrofosmin used in the same day stress and rest protocol. Result: The commonest findings observed in this present analysis were the early age group patients mostly of female having DCM, but the later age group of patients are of both male and female having Angina Pectoris, OMI and ICM. The referral patients by cardiologists or cardiac surgeons are mostly limited to the pre therapeutic evaluation rather than diagnostic indication. The most common indication is the evaluation of myocardial viability and aim of subsequent treatment. Conclusion: Analysis of perfusion status, decision of subsequent treatment either by medicine or CABG, conform the usually described pattern in western literature. Keywords: Myocardial viability, Cardiac Scan (Synoname: WI, MP-SPECT, Thallium Scan). MPIDOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/cardio.v1i1.8205  Cardiovasc. j. 2008; 1(1) : 53-58
Severe Valvular Aortic Stenosis and Homozygous Familial Hypercholesterolemia in a 8 Year Old Female Child - Case Report
Authors: Razzaque S-K A , Islam MS , Haque A , Shariar A , Alam MJ , Harun JIMA , Islam F , Saha SK , Hossain MK
Published: August 2011

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/cardio.v1i1.8208 Cardiovasc. j. 2008; 1(1) : 115-116
Anomalous Origin of Left Coronary Artery from Pulmonary Trunk in an Adult Patient A Rare Occurrence
Authors: Chowdhury AW , Muttalib MA , Baqui MA , Dutta S , Alam MM , Shakawatullah M , Mondol DK , Islam SS , Shahidullah MS , Kamal A HM
Published: August 2011

Anomalous origin of coronary arteries is a rare cause of cardiac disease. One of the very rare coronary anomalies is origin of left main coronary artery from pulmonary trunk. Most of these patients die in the first year of life and only 10-15% survive in adulthood. We are reporting a rare case of anomalous origin of left coronary artery from pulmonary artery who survives into sixth decade of life. Key words: Anomalous origin of coronary artery, Pulmonary artery, Left coronary artery DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/cardio.v1i1.8209 Cardiovasc. j. 2008; 1(1) : 117-121
Combined Carotid Endarterectomy and Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting : Review
Authors: Alam SAN
Published: August 2011

Considerable progress has been made over the last 2 decades in diagnosing and treating patient with ischaemic heart and atherosclerotic carotid diseases. Next to operative mortality, an irreversible perioperative cerebrovacular accident is the most dreaded perioperative complication of myocardial revacularisation; primarily because of the devastating consequences to the patient and because of the significantly increased cost of hospitalization and post hospital care. Perioperative stroke following coronary artery bypass grafting increasingly concerns the cardiac surgeon, because the average age of coronary bypass patients continues to rise and with it the risk of stroke. This article will elaborate the relationship of carotid artery disease to perioperative neurologic complications following myocardial revacularisation, evaluate treatment options and provide guidelines on optimum patient selection and timing for each intervention either isolated or in combination. Key words: CABG, Carotid artery stenosis, Carotid endarterectomy DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/cardio.v1i1.8210 Cardiovasc. j. 2008; 1(1) : 59-63
Coronary Artery Disease in Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease - A Review
Authors: Faruque M , Islam AEM M , Rashid MA , Haque MS , Rahman F , Kibria MG , Khan HILR
Published: August 2011

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/cardio.v1i1.8212Cardiovasc. j. 2008; 1(1) : 97-104
Ebsteins Anomaly Corrected by Tissue Valve: Case Report
Authors: Sabur SAMA , Rashid Z , Fazel A , Chowdhury MMG , Zaman M , Haq N , Badruddoza M , Kabir H , Ali A , Salam ABM , Razzak SK
Published: August 2011

Ebstein’s anomaly is a rare form of congenital heart disease with incidence of 1% of all congenital heart diseases. There are two modes of surgical correction of Ebstein’s anomaly: either biventricular repair with or without tricuspid valve replacement, or palliative univentricular repair consisting of bidirectional Glenn shunt or Fontan procedure. We treated a case of severe form of Ebstein’s anomaly with ASD secundum with WPW syndrome. Radiofrequency ablation was done to treat WPW syndrome preoperatively. Celermajer’s index is a prognostic indicator for tricuspid valve repair or replacement. On 04.03.08 tricuspid valve was replaced with 31 mm Carpentier-Edwards bovine pericardial valve under cardiopulmonary bypass. Postoperative period was uneventful. Follow up echo done on 01.06.08 which revealed normally functioning tissue valve found in tricuspid position TR Grade I. So, in conclusion, preoperative evaluation and workout of Celermajer’s index is essential before surgical intervention for decision of tricuspid valve repair or replacement. Last but not the least, any event of arrhythmia should be properly evaluated.Key words: Ebstein’s anomaly, WPW (Wolff- Parkinson-White) Syndrome, Celermajer’s index, Tissue valve. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/cardio.v1i1.8213 Cardiovasc. j. 2008; 1(1) : 112-114
Peripheral Vascular Stents in Clinical Practice
Authors: Hossain GMM
Published: August 2011

The development of endovascular stents has been a major advance in the treatment of vascular diseases. Endovascular interventions are quickly replacing bypass surgery and endarterectomy as the primary treatment options for stenotic peripheral arterial lesions. Studies using stents in the carotid and iliac arteries have shown acceptable clinical outcome. In this review the basic aspects of different stents are discussed. Key words: Peripheral vascular diseases, Vascular stents, Peripheral angioplasty DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/cardio.v1i1.8215 Cardiovasc. j. 2008; 1(1) : 81-83
Surface Flux Modeling for Air Quality Applications
Authors: Pleim Jonathan , Ran Limei
Published: August 2011

For many gasses and aerosols, dry deposition is an important sink of atmospheric mass. Dry deposition fluxes are also important sources of pollutants to terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. The surface fluxes of some gases, such as ammonia, mercury, and certain volatile organic compounds, can be upward into the air as well as downward to the surface and therefore should be modeled as bi-directional fluxes. Model parameterizations of dry deposition in air quality models have been represented by simple electrical resistance analogs for almost 30 years. Uncertainties in surface flux modeling in global to mesoscale models are being slowly reduced as more field measurements provide constraints on parameterizations. However, at the same time, more chemical species are being added to surface flux models as air quality models are expanded to include more complex chemistry and are being applied to a wider array of environmental issues. Since surface flux measurements of many of these chemicals are still lacking, resistances are usually parameterized using simple scaling by water or lipid solubility and reactivity. Advances in recent years have included bi-directional flux algorithms that require a shift from pre-computation of deposition velocities to fully integrated surface flux calculations within air quality models. Improved modeling of the stomatal component of chemical surface fluxes has resulted from improved evapotranspiration modeling in land surface models and closer integration between meteorology and air quality models. Satellite-derived land use characterization and vegetation products and indices are improving model representation of spatial and temporal variations in surface flux processes. This review describes the current state of chemical dry deposition modeling, recent progress in bi-directional flux modeling, synergistic model development research with field measurements, and coupling with meteorological land surface models.
Crystal Structure Characterization of Natural Allantoin from Edible Lichen Umbilicaria esculenta
Authors: Xu Baojun , Sung Changkeun , Han Byunghee
Published: August 2011

In China, Korea, and Japan, Umbilicaria esculenta is considered as both food and medicinal resources from lichen. In the current study, a prismatic crystal was first isolated from edible lichen U. esculenta via solvent fractionation. The structure of the crystalline compound was elucidated as allantoin using single-crystal X-ray crystallographic and spectroscopic techniques. In light of the wide use of synthesized allantoin in cosmetic industry as a skin protectant, the biological origin of the allantoin isolated from natural food stuff edible lichen has great potential to be developed into functional cosmetics. Current findings also provided useful information for ecologists to further explore the role of lichen and allantoin in nitrogen metabolism.
Genetic Risk Assessment of a Threatened Remnant Population of Hairy Prairie-Clover (Dalea villosa var. villosa) in the Canadian Prairie
Authors: Fu Yong-Bi , Peterson Gregory W. , Richards Ken W.
Published: August 2011

Hairy prairie-clover [Dalea villosa (Nutt.) Spreng. var. villosa] is a threatened Canadian wildflower. To facilitate the efforts of conserving this threatened plant, amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) technique was applied to assess genetic diversity in a remnant hairy prairie-clover population in the Canadian Prairie. Three AFLP primer pairs were employed to genotype 610 individual plants from the population and 15 plants from a North Dakota composite population, and 100 polymorphic AFLP bands were analyzed. The assayed plants displayed 23% AFLP variation present between the remnant population and the North Dakota composite population, but maintained a high level (91%) of AFLP variation within patches of the remnant population. The individual genetic distinctiveness measured by average AFLP dissimilarity was positively associated with latitude and negatively with elevation. The among-patch AFLP variation was significantly related to inter-patch distance, indicating local genetic differentiation within the remnant population. However, the proportions of within-patch AFLP variation were not associated with any patch characteristics assessed (i.e., patch size, perimeter, nearest neighbor distance, mean inter-patch distance). No fine-scale genetic structure was found within three large patches, suggesting little genetic correlations present for plants five meters apart. Some genetically distinctive and diverse patches were also identified. These findings indicate that the genetic risk of the remnant hairy prairie-clover population in the Canadian Prairie is low.
No Evidence for Temporal Variation in a Cryptic Species Community of Freshwater Amphipods of the Hyalella azteca Species Complex
Authors: Dionne Kaven , Vergilino Roland , Dufresne France , Charles François , Nozais Christian
Published: August 2011

The co-occurrence of cryptic species of Hyalella amphipods is a challenge to our traditional views of how species assemble. Since these species have similar morphologies, it is not evident that they have developed phenotypic differences that would allow them to occupy different ecological niches. We examined the structure of a community of Hyalella amphipods in the littoral zone of a boreal lake to verify if temporal variation was present in relative abundances. Morphological and molecular analyses using the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase I (COI) gene enabled us to detect three cryptic species at the study site. No temporal variation was observed in the community, as one cryptic species was always more abundant than the two others. The relative abundances of each species in the community appeared constant at least for the open-water season, both for adult and juvenile amphipods. Niche differences are still to be found among these species, but it is suggested that migration from nearby sites may be an important factor explaining the species co-occurrence.
Science for Trade-Offs Between Conflicting Interests in Future Forests
Authors: Nordin Annika , Larsson Stig , Moen Jon , Linder Sune
Published: August 2011

Forests deliver multiple ecosystem services to society. Management of forests must be able to deal with trade-offs when the delivery of different ecosystem services comes in conflict with each other. The research program Future Forests (http://www.futureforests.se) attempts to form a scientific basis for managing such trade-offs between conflicting interests in northern boreal forests. Some key characteristics of the research program are interdisciplinary and participatory research and a clear communication agenda for stakeholders. This paper gives a brief overview of the underlying ideas behind the program, and an introduction to the papers published in this Special Issue.
The Dental Aesthetic Index and Dental Health Component of the Index of Orthodontic Treatment Need as Tools in Epidemiological Studies
Authors: Cardoso Chrystiane F. , Drummond Alexandre F. , Lages Elisabeth M.B. , Pretti Henrique , Ferreira Efigênia F. , Abreu Mauro Henrique N.G.
Published: August 2011

The present study assesses the validity and reproducibility of two occlusal indices for epidemiological studies—the Dental Aesthetic Index (DAI) and the Dental Health Component of the Index of Orthodontic Treatment Need (DHC-IOTN) for the identification of orthodontic treatment needs. The total of 131 study models was examined by an examiner (orthodontic specialist) for the determination of the DAI and DHC-IOTN. Thirty days later, further assessment was performed to determine the reproducibility. The duration of each exam was measured in seconds with a stopwatch. The indices were compared by a panel of three experts in orthodontics to evaluate validity. The intra-examiner reliability evaluation resulted in an intraclass correlation coefficient of 0.89 for the DAI (95% CI = 0.64 to 1.0) and 0.87 for the DHC-IOTN (95% CI = 0.56 to 0.96). The time spent on the evaluation of the DHC-IOTN was less than the time spent on that of the DAI (P < 0.001). The accuracy of the indices, as reflected by the area under the receiver-operating characteristic curve, was 61% for the DAI (95% CI = 51 to 70; p = 0.037) and 67% for the DHC-IOTN (95% CI = 58 to 77; p = 0.001). Both indices presented good reproducibility and validity.
Investigation of the Structure Requirement for 5-HT6 Binding Affinity of Arylsulfonyl Derivatives: A Computational Study
Authors: Hao Ming , Li Yan , Li Hanqing , Zhang Shuwei
Published: August 2011

5-HT6 receptor has been implicated in a series of diseases including anxiety, depression, schizophrenia and cognitive dysfunctions. 5-HT6 ligands have been reported to play a significant role in the treatment for central nervous system (CNS) diseases. Presently, a large series of 223 5-HT6 ligands were studied using a combinational method by 3D-QSAR, molecular docking and molecular dynamics calculations for further improvement of potency. The optimal 3D models exhibit satisfying statistical results with r2ncv, q2 values of 0.85 and 0.50 for CoMFA, 0.81 and 0.53 for CoMSIA, respectively. Their predictive powers were validated by external test set, showing r2pred of 0.71 and 0.76. The contour maps also provide a visual representation of contributions of steric, electrostatic, hydrophobic and hydrogen bond fields as well as the prospective binding models. In addition, the agreement between 3D-QSAR, molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulation proves the rationality of the developed models. These results, we hope, may be helpful in designing novel and potential 5-HT6 ligands.
Comparative Clinical Study of Bactigras and Telfa AMD for Skin Graft Donor-Site Dressing
Authors: Muangman Pornprom , Nitimonton Sooksan , Aramwit Pornanong
Published: August 2011

The Bactigras® paraffin tulle coated with chlorhexidine is normally used for the treatment of donor-site wounds in burn patients who received split-thickness skin grafts in several centers. It has some disadvantages, such as adhesion to wound surfaces and pain from the irritation caused by this dressing. The Telfa AMD®, a non-adherent wound dressing which consists of absorbent cotton fibers impregnated with polyhexamethylene biguanide enclosed in a sleeve of thermoplastic polymers, is a new option for donor-site wound care which causes less adherence to the wound. The purpose of this study was to compare clinical efficacy of these two dressings for the management of donor-site wounds. Thirty-two patients who received split-thickness skin grafts by donor site harvesting from the thigh were enrolled in this study and randomized into two groups receiving either the Bactigras® or the Telfa AMD® wound treatment. Re-epithelialization, pain, infection and cost-effectiveness analyses were compared between both groups. The results showed that there was no significant difference in age, area of donor sites or length of hospital stays between the groups (p > 0.05). However, the day of re-epithelialization (≥90%) was significantly shorter in patients treated with the Telfa AMD® compared to the Bactigras® group (14.00 ± 3.05 vs. 9.25 ± 1.88 days for Bactigras® and Telfa AMD® groups, respectively, p < 0.001). The average pain score was also significantly lower in the Telfa AMD® group (1.57 ± 0.55 vs. 4.70 ± 1.16, p < 0.001). There was no difference in the cost of treatment between the groups (4.64 ± 1.97 vs. 5.72 ± 2.54 USD, p = 0.19). This study indicated that the Telfa AMD® was an effective dressing for the treatment of donor-site wounds.
Influence of Porcine Intervertebral Disc Matrix on Stem Cell Differentiation
Authors: Salzig Denise , Schmiermund Alexandra , Gebauer Elke , Fuchsbauer Hans-Lothar , Czermak Peter
Published: August 2011

For back disorders, cell therapy is one approach for a real regeneration of a degenerated nucleus pulposus. Human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSC) could be differentiated into nucleus pulposus (NP)-like cells and used for cell therapy. Therefore it is necessary to find a suitable biocompatible matrix, which supports differentiation. It could be shown that a differentiation of hMSC in a microbial transglutaminase cross-linked gelatin matrix is possible, but resulted in a more chondrocyte-like cell type. The addition of porcine NP extract to the gelatin matrix caused a differentiation closer to the desired NP cell phenotype. This concludes that a hydrogel containing NP extract without any other supplements could be suitable for differentiation of hMSCs into NP cells. The NP extract itself can be cross-linked by transglutaminase to build a hydrogel free of NP atypical substrates. As shown by side-specific biotinylation, the NP extract contains molecules with free glutamine and lysine residues available for the transglutaminase.
Large-Scale Growth of Tubular Aragonite Whiskers through a MgCl2-Assisted Hydrothermal Process
Authors: Ren Minyan , Dong Changyin , An Changhua
Published: August 2011

In this paper, we have developed a facile MgCl2-assissted hydrothermal synthesis route to grow tubular aragonite whiskers on a large scale. The products have been characterized by powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), optical microscopy, and scanning electronic microscopy (SEM). The results show the as-grown product is pure tubular aragonite crystalline whiskers with a diameter of 5–10 mm and a length of 100–200 mm, respectively. The concentration of Mg2+ plays an important role in determining the quality and purity of the products. Furthermore, the method can be extended to fabricate CaSO4 fibers. The high quality of the product and the mild conditions used mean that the present route has good prospects for the growth of inorganic crystalline whiskers.
Green Synthesis and Antibacterial Effect of Silver Nanoparticles Using Vitex Negundo L.
Authors: Zargar Mohsen , Hamid Azizah Abdul , Bakar Fatima Abu , Shamsudin Mariana Nor , Shameli Kamyar , Jahanshiri Fatemeh , Farahani Farah
Published: August 2011

Different biological methods are gaining recognition for the production of silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs) due to their multiple applications. One of the most important applications of Ag-NPs is their use as an anti-bacterial agent. The use of plants in the synthesis of nanoparticles emerges as a cost effective and eco-friendly approach. In this study the biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles using Vitex negundo L. extract and its antimicrobial properties has been reported. The resulting silver particles are characterized using transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and UV–Visible (UV-Vis) spectroscopic techniques. The TEM study showed the formation of silver nanoparticles in the 10–30 nm range and average 18.2 nm in size. The XRD study showed that the particles are crystalline in nature, with a face centered cubic (fcc) structure. The silver nanoparticles showed the antimicrobial activity against Gram positive and Gram negative bacteria. Vitex negundo L. was found to display strong potential for the synthesis of silver nanoparticles as antimicrobial agents by rapid reduction of silver ions (Ag+ to Ag0).
Fast Method for Synthesis of Alkyl and Aryl-N-Methylnitrones
Authors: Yavuz Serkan , Ozkan Hamdi , Colak Naki , Yildirir Yilmaz
Published: August 2011

A simple, fast, efficient and eco-friendly procedure was developed for the synthesis of alkyl and aryl-N-methylnitrones. The corresponding nitrones of aromatic aldehydes, aliphatic aldehydes and alicyclic carbonyl compounds were prepared from N-methylhydroxylamine hydrochloride and Na2CO3-Na2SO4 by simply grinding at room temperature without using solvent.
Group 11 Metal Compounds with Tripodal Bis(imidazole) Thioether Ligands. Applications as Catalysts in the Oxidation of Alkenes and as Antimicrobial Agents
Authors: Liu Fangwei , Anis Reema , Hwang Eunmi , Ovalle Rafael , Varela-Ramírez Armando , Aguilera Renato J. , Contel María
Published: August 2011

New group 11 metal complexes have been prepared using the previously described tripodal bis(imidazole) thioether ligand (N-methyl-4,5-diphenyl-2-imidazolyl)2C(OMe)C(CH3)2S(tert-Bu) ({BITOMe,StBu}, 2). The pincer ligand offers a N2S donor atom set that can be used to coordinate the group 11 metals in different oxidation states [AuI, AuIII, AgI, CuI and CuII]. Thus the new compounds [Au{BITOMe,StBu}Cl][AuCl4]2 (3), [Au{BITOMe,StBu}Cl] (4), [Ag{BITOMe,StBu}X] (X = OSO2CF3- 5, PF6- 6) and [Cu{BITOMe,StBu}Cl2] (7) have been synthesized from reaction of 2 with the appropriate metal precursors, and characterized in solution. While attempting characterization in the solid state of 3, single crystals of the neutral dinuclear mixed AuIII-AuI species [Au2{BITOMe,S}Cl3] (8) were obtained and its crystal structure was determined by X-ray diffraction studies. The structure shows a AuIII center coordinated to the pincer ligand through one N and the S atom. The soft AuI center coordinates to the ligand through the same S atom that has lost the tert-butyl group, thus becoming a thiolate ligand. The short distance between the AuI-AuIII atoms (3.383 Å) may indicate a weak metal-metal interaction. Complexes 2-7 and the previously described CuI compound [Cu{BITOMe,StBu}]PF6 (9) have been evaluated in the oxidation of biphenyl ethylene with tert-butyl hydrogen peroxide (TBHP) as the oxidant. Results have shown that the AuI and AgI complexes 4 and 6 (at 10 mol % loading) are the more active catalysts in this oxidative cleavage. The antimicrobial activity of compounds 2-5, 7 and 9 against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria and yeast has also been evaluated. The new gold and silver compounds display moderate to high antibacterial activity, while the copper derivatives are mostly inactive. The gold and silver complexes were also potent against fungi. Their cytotoxic properties have been analyzed in vitro utilizing HeLa human cervical carcinoma cells. The compounds displayed a very low cytotoxicity on this cell line (5 to 10 times lower than cisplatin) and on normal primary cells derived from C57B6 mouse muscle explants, which may make them promising candidates as potential antimicrobial agents and safer catalysts due to low toxicity in human and other mammalian tissues.
Computational and Spectral Investigation of 5,12-Dihydro-5,12-ethanonaphthacene-13-carbaldehyde
Authors: Karama Usama , El-Azhary Adel A. , Almansour Abdulrahman I. , Al-Kahtani Abdulla A. , Al-Turki Turki M. , Jaafar Mohammed H.
Published: August 2011

A conformational search of 5,12-dihydro-5,12-ethanonaphthacene-13-carbaldehyde predicted the presence of twelve conformations. The geometry of the twelve conformations established at the B3LYP/6-31G* level showed only six unique ones. Vibrational frequencies were calculated at the B3LYP/6-31G* level. The calculated vibrational frequencies enabled us to interpret the appearance of two bands corresponding to the C=O stretching mode of 5,12-dihydro-5,12-ethanonaphthacene-13-carbaldehyde. The first band corresponded to the 5,12-dihydro-5,12-ethanonaphthacene-13-carbaldehyde structure where the aldehyde group O atom was above the benzene or naphthalene ring. The other band was due to the O atom of the aldehyde group pointing out of the benzene or naphthalene ring.
A Biomimetic Chitosan Derivates: Preparation, Characterization and Transdermal Enhancement Studies of N-Arginine Chitosan
Authors: Lv Hui-Xia , Zhang Zhen-Hai , Wang Xiao-Pan , Cheng Qing-Qing , Wang Wei , Huang Xu-Hui , Zhou Jian-Ping , Zhang Qiang , Hou Lu-Lu , Huo Wei
Published: August 2011

A novel arginine-rich chitosan (CS) derivates mimicked cell penetration peptides; N-Arginine chitosan (N-Arg-CS) was prepared by two reaction methods involving activated L-arginine and the amine group on the chitosan. FTIR spectra showed that arginine was chemically coupled with CS. Elemental analysis estimated that the degrees of substitution (DS) of arginine in CS were 6%, 31.3% and 61.5%, respectively. The drug adefovir was chosen as model and its permeation flux across excised mice skin was investigated using a Franz diffusion cell. The results showed that the most effective enhancer was 2% (w/v) concentration of 10 kDa N-Arg-CS with 6% DS. At neutral pH, the cumulative amount of adefovir permeated after 12 hours was 2.63 ± 0.19 mg cm−2 which was 5.83-fold more than adefovir aqueous solution. Meanwhile N-Arg-CS was 1.83, 2.22, and 2.45 times more effective than Azone, eucalyptus and peppermint, respectively. The obtained results suggest that N-Arg-CS could be a promising transdermal enhancer.
HPLC and GC-MS Determination of Bioactive Compounds in Microwave Obtained Extracts of Three Varieties of Labisia pumila Benth.
Authors: Karimi Ehsan , Jaafar Hawa Z.E.
Published: August 2011

Microwave extraction of phytochemicals from medicinal plant materials has generated tremendous research interest and shown great potential. This research highlights the importance of microwave extraction in the analysis of flavonoids, isoflavonoid and phenolics and the antioxidant properties of extracts from three varieties of the Malaysian medicinal herb, Labisia pumila Benth. High and fast extraction performance ability, equal or higher extraction efficiencies than other methods, and the need for small samples and reagent volumes are some of the attractive features of this new promising microwave assisted extraction (MAE) technique. The aims of the present research were to determine the foliar phenolics and flavonoids contents of extracts of three varieties of L. pumila obtained by a microwave extraction method while flavonoid, isoflavonoid and phenolic compounds were analyzed using RP-HPLC. Furthermore, the antioxidant activities were measured by the DPPH and FRAP methods and finally, the chemical composition of the crude methanolic extracts of the leaves of all three varieties were analyzed by GS-MS.
Spontaneous Vesicles Modulated by Polymers
Authors: Velázquez M. Mercedes , Valero Margarita , Ortega Francisco
Published: August 2011

Vesicles are widely used in technological applications including cosmetic products, in microencapsulation for drug delivery, as anticancer agents and in the technology of adhesives, paints and inks. The vesicle size and the surface charge are very important properties from a technological point of view. Thus, the challenge in formulation is to find inexpensive stable vesicles with well-defined sizes and to modulate the surface charge of these aggregates. In this work we analyze the effect of different polymers on the structural properties of vesicles of the biodegradable surfactant sodium bis(2-ethyl-hexyl) sulfosuccinate, Aerosol OT. Using fluorescence, conductivity, electrophoretic mobility and dynamic light scattering measurements we study the effect of the polymer nature, molecular weight and polymer concentration on the stability and the vesicle size properties. Results demonstrate that it is possible to modulate both the size and the electric surface charge of spontaneous vesicles of Aerosol OT by the addition of very small percentages of poly(allylamine) and poly(maleic anhydride-alt-1-octadecen).
A Review of Optical NDT Technologies
Authors: Zhu Yong-Kai , Tian Gui-Yun , Lu Rong-Sheng , Zhang Hong
Published: August 2011

Optical non-destructive testing (NDT) has gained more and more attention in recent years, mainly because of its non-destructive imaging characteristics with high precision and sensitivity. This paper provides a review of the main optical NDT technologies, including fibre optics, electronic speckle, infrared thermography, endoscopic and terahertz technology. Among them, fibre optics features easy integration and embedding, electronic speckle focuses on whole-field high precision detection, infrared thermography has unique advantages for tests of combined materials, endoscopic technology provides images of the internal surface of the object directly, and terahertz technology opens a new direction of internal NDT because of its excellent penetration capability to most of non-metallic materials. Typical engineering applications of these technologies are illustrated, with a brief introduction of the history and discussion of recent progress.
A Biomimetic Sensor for the Classification of Honeys of Different Floral Origin and the Detection of Adulteration
Authors: Zakaria Ammar , Shakaff Ali Yeon Md , Masnan Maz Jamilah , Ahmad Mohd Noor , Adom Abdul Hamid , Jaafar Mahmad Nor , Ghani Supri A. , Abdullah Abu Hassan , Aziz Abdul Hallis Abdul , Kamarudin Latifah Munirah , Subari Norazian , Fikri Nazifah Ahmad
Published: August 2011

The major compounds in honey are carbohydrates such as monosaccharides and disaccharides. The same compounds are found in cane-sugar concentrates. Unfortunately when sugar concentrate is added to honey, laboratory assessments are found to be ineffective in detecting this adulteration. Unlike tracing heavy metals in honey, sugar adulterated honey is much trickier and harder to detect, and traditionally it has been very challenging to come up with a suitable method to prove the presence of adulterants in honey products. This paper proposes a combination of array sensing and multi-modality sensor fusion that can effectively discriminate the samples not only based on the compounds present in the sample but also mimic the way humans perceive flavours and aromas. Conversely, analytical instruments are based on chemical separations which may alter the properties of the volatiles or flavours of a particular honey. The present work is focused on classifying 18 samples of different honeys, sugar syrups and adulterated samples using data fusion of electronic nose (e-nose) and electronic tongue (e-tongue) measurements. Each group of samples was evaluated separately by the e-nose and e-tongue. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and Linear Discriminant Analysis (LDA) were able to separately discriminate monofloral honey from sugar syrup, and polyfloral honey from sugar and adulterated samples using the e-nose and e-tongue. The e-nose was observed to give better separation compared to e-tongue assessment, particularly when LDA was applied. However, when all samples were combined in one classification analysis, neither PCA nor LDA were able to discriminate between honeys of different floral origins, sugar syrup and adulterated samples. By applying a sensor fusion technique, the classification for the 18 different samples was improved. Significant improvement was observed using PCA, while LDA not only improved the discrimination but also gave better classification. An improvement in performance was also observed using a Probabilistic Neural Network classifier when the e-nose and e-tongue data were fused.
A Study Using a Monte Carlo Method of the Optimal Configuration of a Distribution Network in Terms of Power Loss Sensing
Authors: Moon Hyun Ho , Lee Jong Joo , Choi Sang Yule , Cha Jae Sang , Kang Jang Mook , Kim Jong Tae , Shin Myong Chul
Published: August 2011

Recently there have been many studies of power systems with a focus on “New and Renewable Energy” as part of “New Growth Engine Industry” promoted by the Korean government. “New And Renewable Energy”—especially focused on wind energy, solar energy and fuel cells that will replace conventional fossil fuels—is a part of the Power-IT Sector which is the basis of the SmartGrid. A SmartGrid is a form of highly-efficient intelligent electricity network that allows interactivity (two-way communications) between suppliers and consumers by utilizing information technology in electricity production, transmission, distribution and consumption. The New and Renewable Energy Program has been driven with a goal to develop and spread through intensive studies, by public or private institutions, new and renewable energy which, unlike conventional systems, have been operated through connections with various kinds of distributed power generation systems. Considerable research on smart grids has been pursued in the United States and Europe. In the United States, a variety of research activities on the smart power grid have been conducted within EPRI's IntelliGrid research program. The European Union (EU), which represents Europe’s Smart Grid policy, has focused on an expansion of distributed generation (decentralized generation) and power trade between countries with improved environmental protection. Thus, there is current emphasis on a need for studies that assesses the economic efficiency of such distributed generation systems. In this paper, based on the cost of distributed power generation capacity, calculations of the best profits obtainable were made by a Monte Carlo simulation. Monte Carlo simulations that rely on repeated random sampling to compute their results take into account the cost of electricity production, daily loads and the cost of sales and generate a result faster than mathematical computations. In addition, we have suggested the optimal design, which considers the distribution loss associated with power distribution systems focus on sensing aspect and distributed power generation.
HTLV-1 and Innate Immunity
Authors: Journo Chloé , Mahieux Renaud
Published: August 2011

Innate immunity plays a critical role in the host response to a viral infection. The innate response has two main functions. First, it triggers effector mechanisms that restrict the infection. Second, it primes development of the adaptive response, which completes the elimination of the pathogen or of infected cells. In vivo, HTLV-1 infects T lymphocytes that participate in adaptive immunity but also monocytes and dendritic cells that are major players in innate immunity. Herein, we will review the interplay between HTLV-1 and innate immunity. Particular emphasis is put on HTLV-1-induced alteration of type-I interferon (IFN-I) function. In vitro, the viral Tax protein plays a significant role in the alteration of IFN synthesis and signaling. Despite this, IFN-I/AZT treatment of Adult T‑cell Leukemia/Lymphoma (ATLL) patients leads to complete remission. We will discuss a model in which exogenous IFN-I could act both on the microenvironment of the T-cells to protect them from infection, and also on infected cells when combined with other drugs that lead to Tax down-regulation/degradation.
Recent developments in gold-catalyzed cycloaddition reactions
Authors: López Fernando , Mascareñas José L
Published: August 2011

In the last years there have been extraordinary advances in the development of gold-catalyzed cycloaddition processes. In this review we will summarize some of the most remarkable examples, and present the mechanistic rational underlying the transformations.
Article Commentary: Reactivated Hepatitis B Due to Medical Interventions: The Clinical Spectrum Expands
Authors: Perrillo Robert P
Published: August 2011

Reactivated hepatitis B is a potentially serious disorder that can result in liver failure and death. It has been described with a wide variety of immunosuppressive interventions, such as cancer chemotherapy, anti-rejection drugs and the use of tumour necrosis factor-α inhibitors and monoclonal antibody to B-cell antigen. It now appears reasonable to consider transarterial chemoembolization (TAC) for hepatocellular carcinoma as an additional medical intervention associated with hepatitis B reactivation. Pre-emptive antiviral treatment of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) carriers can prevent serious complications arising from immunosuppressive-induced viral reactivation. Specific recommendations for antiviral prophylaxis in HBsAg carriers undergoing TAC should be added to international management guidelines.
Remarques préliminaires sur la démocratie administrative
Authors: Auby Jean-Bernard
Published: August 2011

Après avoir exposé les concepts et les justifications mobilisés par thème de la démocratie administrative, l’article examine les mécanismes concrets qui l’incarnent ainsi que ses potentialités de développement. Il en questionne enfin les vertus mais aussi les limites.
La démocratie administrative dans la théorie du droit public : retour sur la naissance d'un concept
Authors: Daugeron Bruno
Published: August 2011

La notion de démocratie administrative, présentée comme une réponse à la crise de la démocratie dite « représentative », ne s’est pas toujours dressée tout armée dans les esprits comme on pourrait être spontanément porté à le croire. Elle est également moins récente qu’on ne le pense d’ordinaire. Elle est le produit d’une histoire et de glissements de sens directement en lien avec les transformations du gouvernement représentatif. Elle est fort problématique du double point de vue historique et de la théorie juridique de l’État et les difficultés qu’elle pose ne sont donc pas seulement celles de sa réalisation mais commencent avec le recours au mot démocratie.
L'administration consultative, élément constitutif ou substitut de la démocratie administrative ?
Authors: Le Clainche Michel
Published: August 2011

L’administration consultative et la démocratie administrative ont en commun la notion de représentation et le principe de participation aux décisions. L’administration consultative offre un potentiel de plus en plus large d’associations des citoyens, notamment dans ses formes nouvelles dont le modèle est le Grenelle de l’environnement. Mais ces procédures de consultation demeurent très encadrées juridiquement et l’administration conserve le contrôle du processus. En définitive, l’administration consultative ne peut être assimilée à une procédure démocratique mais elle participe à l’instauration d’un climat favorable à la démocratie.
L'apport de la jurisprudence de la cour européenne des droits de l'homme en matière de démocratie administrative
Authors: Flauss Jean-François
Published: August 2011

Bien que relativement tardive et inégale, la contribution de la jurisprudence de la Cour européenne des droits de l’homme à la démocratie administrative est tangible. Elle concerne, tout d’abord et en substance, le droit des administrés à la transparence administrative, au travers davantage d’un droit à obtenir la communication de documents qu’un droit de l’administration de produire une information à destination du public. Elle concerne ensuite le droit des administrés de participer aux procédures administratives décisionnelles, par le bais, au départ, de la théorie des garanties procédurales inhérentes aux droits et libertés énoncés par la Convention, puis, par glissements successifs, par le truchement de garanties substantielles.
De la démocratie administrative à la démocratie sanitaire dans le secteur public de la santé
Authors: Aïdan Géraldine
Published: August 2011

La relation individuelle patient-médecin se révèle être un champ de recherche particulièrement éclairant pour analyser le rapport entre démocratie sanitaire et démocratie administrative dans le secteur public de la santé. Si la démocratie sanitaire apparaît ici comme une forme de démocratie administrative, elle en constitue, dans une certaine mesure, un dépassement, renforçant alors le rééquilibrage de la relation Administration-administré.
La pratique des consultations sur Internet par l'administration
Authors: Belrhali-Bernard Hafida
Published: August 2011

Les consultations sur internet connaissent un réel développement favorisé par deux facteurs : dans une démarche de simplification du droit, elles apparaissent comme un substitut aux consultations institutionnelles en France et, en tant que consultations ouvertes, elles font l’objet d’une incitation forte au niveau international. Toutefois, envisager l’essor durable de ces consultations nécessite de répondre à deux interrogations qui prennent en compte les risques qu’elles présentent : quelles limites fixer à leur égard et quel droit leur appliquer ?