bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of different methods of temperature measurement in children
Authors: Pavlovic Momcilo , Radlovic Nedeljko , Lekovic Zoran , Berenji Karolina
Published: April 2009

Introduction The consequences of failing to notice fever in children can be serious. On the other hand, false positive reading can result in unnecessary investigation or diagnostic approach. The aim of this study was to compare different ways of body temperature measurement. Material and methods This prospective study was carried out on Pediatric Department of General Hospital in Subotica during 10 months (March-December 2006). In 263 children aged 1 month to 18 years of age, the body temperature was obtained from 4 measurement sites: tactile assessment, forehead and ear by electronic thermometer, rectal temperature in small children (up to 2 years of age) or axillar temperature in older children by mercury thermometer. Tympanic thermometry was considered as a standard for fever detection. Results The sensitivity of rectal temperature to detect fever is 46.67%, while specificity is 92.19%. The sensitivity of fever detection by electronic thermometry on the forehead is lower according to rectal thermometry - 36.08%, while specificity is 95.18%. The lowest values of sensitivity are recorded in axillar thermometry (35.82%), specificity is 90.20%. The correlation coefficient is higher between tympanic and rectal temperature measurement (r=0.5076, p<0.0005), than between tympanic and forehead measurements (r=0.5076, p<0,0005), while the lowest was between tympanic and axillar measurement sites (r=0.4933, p<0.0005). Conclusions The results of our study and literature data show that the most accurate methods of thermometry are rectal measurement of body temperature in small children and tympanic thermometry in children over 2 years of age.
Research of the quality of life of schizophrenic patients in Belgrade
Authors: Opalic Petar , Femic Natasa
Published: April 2009

First of all, it was pointed to the specificity of the quality of life of psychiatric patients, primarily to the fact that the very poor mental state significantly reduces the life satisfaction. Then, an overview of results of general research of quality of life among schizophrenic patients was presented, in relation to their conditions of treatment, cultural setting, influence of socio-demographic and other factors. The very research was conducted on the sample of 80 subjects treated under the diagnosis of schizophrenia at the Institute of Mental Health in Belgrade - treated as out-patients in the day-hospital. The controls were 80 healthy subjects employed with a Health-care center in Belgrade. The statistical significance calculations of differences were related to replies to the instrument's questions - the instrument being a combination of Lancashire and Manchester Questionnaire. The questions referred to 15 features, classified according to five dimensions of quality of life (physical and medical; psychological and psychopathological; economic; relational and social; and axiological and transcendental dimension), and we arrived at the following: In terms of statistical significance, schizophrenic patients, in comparison to healthy controls confirmed taking medicaments significantly more often, that is, confirmed feeling as being chronic patients, suffering due to their bad disposition, fear and having hallucinations. The schizophrenic subjects, also confirmed something very interesting - that they were satisfied with their housing conditions and income. On the other hand, healthy controls, statistically speaking, replied significantly more often that they were satisfied with their sexual relations and relations with their friends, as well as that they were significantly more satisfied with their cultural and social activities. The results of our research were also commented on in relation to the social and other factors, and were compared to the results of similar researches.
Clinical importance of Clostridium difficile finding in hospitalized patients
Authors: Kocic Branislava , Stojanovic Predrag
Published: April 2009

Introduction Clostridium difficile infections predominatelly occur among hospitalized patients. The aim of this study was to evaluate the importance of finding the isolate of Clostridium difficile cultured from the stool of hospitalized patients. Material and methods Material consisted of 100 patients with at least one liquid stool samples and control group with form stool. Every patient spent minimum 48h in hospital before the sampling. The material was immediately cultured on mediums for isolation of enteric pathogens, and on selective CCFA medium (Biomedics) for Clostridium difficile in anaerobic condition. Diagnosis of Clostridium difficile toxin in stool samples was achieved by ELISA-RIDASCREEN Clostridium difficile Toxin A/B test (R-Biopharm). Results One-hundred forty one stool samples of patients in Clinical Center Nis were cultivated and examined for C. difficile. The bacteria was isolated in seven patients from the clinical group. In four (57.14%) patients, the presence of C. difficile toxin in stool was established. The bacteria was diagnosed from the stool samples of five patients from the control group, but the toxin was not found in their stool samples. Discussion The results performed at the Institute for Public Health Nis are in accordance with previously published results that all patients with positive findings of Clostridium difficile toxin in stool samples were on antibiotic treatment longer than 14 days. By analyzing the patient's stay in hospital and duration of antibiotic treatment, we observed the statistically significant difference in findings between the patients with CDAD and the patients from the control group with positive bacteria. Conclusion The study confirms the importance of finding Clostridium difficile associated disease in four (4%) hospitalized patients.
Type of Vegetarian Diet, Body Weight, and Prevalence of Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Tonstad Serena , Butler Terry , Yan Ru , Fraser Gary E.
Published: April 2009

OBJECTIVE

We assessed the prevalence of type 2 diabetes in people following different types of vegetarian diets compared with that in nonvegetarians.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

The study population comprised 22,434 men and 38,469 women who participated in the Adventist Health Study-2 conducted in 2002–2006. We collected self-reported demographic, anthropometric, medical history, and lifestyle data from Seventh-Day Adventist church members across North America. The type of vegetarian diet was categorized based on a food-frequency questionnaire. We calculated odds ratios (ORs) and 95% CIs using multivariate-adjusted logistic regression.

RESULTS

Mean BMI was lowest in vegans (23.6 kg/m2) and incrementally higher in lacto-ovo vegetarians (25.7 kg/m2), pesco-vegetarians (26.3 kg/m2), semi-vegetarians (27.3 kg/m2), and nonvegetarians (28.8 kg/m2). Prevalence of type 2 diabetes increased from 2.9% in vegans to 7.6% in nonvegetarians; the prevalence was intermediate in participants consuming lacto-ovo (3.2%), pesco (4.8%), or semi-vegetarian (6.1%) diets. After adjustment for age, sex, ethnicity, education, income, physical activity, television watching, sleep habits, alcohol use, and BMI, vegans (OR 0.51 [95% CI 0.40–0.66]), lacto-ovo vegetarians (0.54 [0.49–0.60]), pesco-vegetarians (0.70 [0.61–0.80]), and semi-vegetarians (0.76 [0.65–0.90]) had a lower risk of type 2 diabetes than nonvegetarians.

CONCLUSIONS

The 5-unit BMI difference between vegans and nonvegetarians indicates a substantial potential of vegetarianism to protect against obesity. Increased conformity to vegetarian diets protected against risk of type 2 diabetes after lifestyle characteristics and BMI were taken into account. Pesco- and semi-vegetarian diets afforded intermediate protection.
Bioresorbable carbonated hydroxyapatite Ca10−xNax(PO4)6−x(CO3)x(OH)2 powders for bioactive materials preparation
Authors: Kovaleva Elena , Shabanov Maxim , Putlyaev Valery , Tretyakov Yury , Ivanov Vladimir , Silkin Nikolay
Published: April 2009

The purpose of this work was to find and investigate a correlation between the carbonate ion content in crystalline lattice and defect structure, and solubility of the materials; finally, to prepare the materials under study for in vitro tests. Various techniques, such as XRD, FTIR, TEM, FESEM/EDX, TG/DTA, AES (ICP), wet chemical analysis, Ca-ionometry, microvolumetric analysis of evolved CO2, BET adsorption, were applied to determine the efficiency of carbonate substitution, and to quantify the elemental composition, as well as to characterize the structure of the carbonated hydroxyapatite and the site(s) of carbonate substitution,. It was shown that AB-type substitution prevails over other types with the carbonate content increase. According to in vitro tests, the bioactivity of the samples is correlated with the carbonate content in carbonate-doped hydroxyapatite due to accumulation of defects in carbonated hydroxyapatite nanocrystals.
Photocatalytic properties of Ru-doped titania prepared by homogeneous hydrolysis
Authors: Houšková Vendula , Štengl Václav , Bakardjieva Snejana , Murafa Nataliya , Tyrpekl Václav
Published: April 2009

Nanocrystalline titania particles doped with ruthenium oxide have been prepared by the homogenous hydrolysis of TiOSO4 in aqueous solutions in the presence of urea. The synthesized particles were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), High Resolution Transmission Electron Microscopy (HRTEM), Selected Area Electron Diffraction (SAED) and Nitrogen adsorption-desorption was used for surface area (BET) and porosity determination (BJH). The photocatalytic activity of the Ru-doped titania samples were determined by photocatalytic decomposition of Orange II dye in an aqueous slurry during irradiation at 365 nm and 400 nm wavelengths.
Health Status of Beef Cows and their Calves in the Czech Republic
Authors: Slavík Petr , Illek Josef , Brix Michal , Musilová Lucie , Rajmon Radko , Klabanová Petra , Jílek František
Published: April 2009

The objective of this study was to assess the health status and the most common health problems occurring in beef cattle in the Czech Republic. Thirty five beef herds of different breeds were monitored from 1 January to 31 December 2006. The health status of 4872 animals (2601 cows and 2271 of their calves) was analyzed. Herds of up to 50 cows and those over 50 cows were evaluated both separately and together. Farm management data were collected by means of a questionnaire completed by the farmers. Both geographic and herd characteristics were evaluated, as well as the course of calving, mortality and morbidity in calves, and disease occurrence in cows. Calving was unassisted in about 80% of the cows, and the conception rate was approximately 90%. More difficult courses of calving were reported from the small herds than from the large ones (p < 0.001). Total calf losses were 10% on the average. Most calf deaths occurred during the first week of life (p < 0.01), the most common cause of death being diarrhoea (p < 0.001). The situation was similar in large and small herds. Diarrhoea was also most often diagnosed in those calves that survived the early life stage. At the age of 120 days, the calves that had suffered from diarrhoea showed a lower body weight by 12.6 kg than the calves of the same age from the same herd that did not have diarrhoea. The occurrence of diarrhoea in small and large herds was 12.1% and 6.7% per herd, respectively (p < 0.05). Also, other health disorders were more often reported from small herds, in calves as well as in adult cows (p < 0.001).
Effects of Gamma-Irradiation on Microbial Contamination and on Histological Changes of Muscle in Poecilia reticulata
Authors: Beňová Katarína , Dvořák Petr , Halán Miloš , Kaleničová Zuzana , Sehnálková Hedviga , Cigánková Viera
Published: April 2009

This study describes the effect of gamma-irradiation on the microbial skin and organ contamination and on the histological changes of fish skeletal musculature. The aquarium fish Poecilia reticulata were exposed to the radiation effect of 60Co at the doses of 20 and 30 Gy (11.36 Gy/min). Frequent intravital haemorrhages were observed from day 8 after the exposure. A general long-term body fading appeared from day 10 to day 30 of the experiment. Microbiological and histological examinations were done on days 7, 14, 21 and 28. Individual muscle cells were bound together into fascicles surrounded by connective tissue. No significant morphological changes were observed on skeletal muscle cells, except for more watery connective tissue. The presence of Escherichia coli and Aeromonas hydrophila was proved in the body surface samples and in aquarium water based on the microbiological test. A moderate increase of the number of E. coli and A. hydrophila was observed in the intestines in both exposed groups (20 and 30 Gy) depending on the time that elapsed from the exposure (from 1 × 101 to 6 × 103 CFU). However, the heart, liver and musculature remained sterile. No microbial contamination of musculature was found for the intravital ionizing radiation dose of 30 Gy even for the single specimen killed on day 28 from the exposure.
Improving Impact Studies of Teachers’ Professional Development: Toward Better Conceptualizations and Measures
Authors: Desimone Laura M.
Published: April 2009

The author suggests that we apply recent research knowledge to improve our conceptualization, measures, and methodology for studying the effects of teachers’ professional development on teachers and students. She makes the case that there is a research consensus to support the use of a set of core features and a common conceptual framework in professional development impact studies. She urges us to move away from automatic biases either for or against observation, interviews, or surveys in such studies. She argues that the use of a common conceptual framework would elevate the quality of professional development studies and subsequently the general understanding of how best to shape and implement teacher learning opportunities for the maximum benefit of both teachers and students.
Energy-efficient Area Coverage by Sensors with Adjustable Ranges
Authors: Zalyubovskiy Vyacheslav , Erzin Adil , Astrakov Sergey , Choo Hyunseung
Published: April 2009

In wireless sensor networks, density control is an important technique for prolonging a network's lifetime. To reduce the overall energy consumption, it is desirable to minimize the overlapping sensing area of the sensor nodes. In this paper, we study the problem of energy-efficient area coverage by the regular placement of sensors with adjustable sensing and communication ranges. We suggest a more accurate method to estimate efficiency than those currently used for coverage by sensors with adjustable ranges, and propose new density control models that considerably improve coverage using sensors with two sensing ranges. Calculations and extensive simulation show that the new models outperform existing ones in terms of various performance metrics.
New Materials in Memory Development Sub 50 nm: Trends in Flash and DRAM
Authors: Kuesters Karl Heinz , Beug Marc Florian , Schroeder Uwe , Nagel Nicolas , Bewersdorff Ulrike , Dallmann Gerald , Jakschik Stefan , Knoefler Roman , Kudelka Stephan , Ludwig Christoph , Manger Dirk , Mueller Wolfgang , Tilke Armin
Published: April 2009

New materials are of key importance for scaling memories in the sub 50 nm generations. Currently high‐k materials and metal gates are investigated for usage in Flash and DRAM memory. However, the requirements in the applications are different, leading to different material combinations. This paper gives an overview on new materials with focus on memory applications.
Advanced Experimental and Simulation Approaches to Meet Reliability Challenges of New Electronics Systems
Authors: Vogel Dietmar , Auersperg Jürgen , Michel Bernd
Published: April 2009

This paper focuses on some advanced aspects of physics of failure approaches. Tracing of failure modes under realistic loading is a key issue to separate relevant failure sites to be studied in more detail. In the past design of experiment (DoE) tools have been developed to handle this problem. They allow to optimize design and/or material selection with respect to different failure mechanisms and sites. The application of these methods is demonstrated by optimizations performed for fracture problems. Interface fracture has been chosen as one of the most important failure mechanisms. Finally, local stress and strain measurement tools developed over the past years are presented at the end of the paper. They are tools to validate simulation results and therefore the underlying mechanical modeling. Namely, local stress measurement tools under development are needed to make realistic assumptions of loading conditions and to provide residual stress data for FEA.
A generic feasibility study of batch reactive distillation in hybrid configurations
Authors: Stéger C. , Lukács T. , Rév E. , Meyer M. , Lelkes Z.
Published: April 2009

A new graphical feasibility method is developed to investigate batch reactive distillation processes in middle vessel column. The suggested methodology can deal with fully reactive, nonreactive, and complex column configuration. A new formulation is suggested to describe the composition profiles in the reactive sections. Its application has made possible to develop a generic feasibility methodology containing the same model equations independently of the presence or absence of reaction. By combining the reactive and nonreactive models, not only the fully reactive and fully nonreactive but also hybrid configurations can be studied. Feasibility criteria related to the hybrid configurations are also presented. Application of the new methodology is demonstrated on the production of ethyl acetate in batch reactive distillation. Five configurations are found feasible; pure EtOAc is produced as distillate, and pure H2O is produced at the bottom. In each case, continuous feeding of AcOH is necessary. © 2009 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2009
Sex determination of adolescent skeletons using the distal humerus
Authors: Rogers Tracy L.
Published: April 2009

Accurate determination of the sex of immature skeletal remains is difficult in the absence of DNA, due to the fact that most sexually dimorphic features of the human skeleton develop as secondary sex characteristics during adolescence. Methods of assessment of adult skeletons cannot reliably be applied to adolescent skeletons because of the transitional nature of the skeleton at puberty and the variability of the adolescent growth spurt. The purpose of this work was to evaluate the accuracy of Rogers's method of morphological sex determination using the distal humerus (Rogers: J Forensic Sci 44 (1999) 55–59) to assess the sex of adolescent skeletons. The sample consists of 7 documented adolescent skeletons from the Christ Church Spitalfields collection at the British Museum of Natural History and 35 from the Luis Lopes skeletal collection housed in the National History Museum (Museu Bocage) of the University of Lisbon, Portugal. Ages range from 11 to 20 years. The technique achieved an accuracy of 81% on the combined sample of 42. This method can be applied to adolescent skeletons once the trochlea begins fusing to the humeral diaphysis, which occurred by age 11 years in the test samples. Am J Phys Anthropol 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Habitual throwing and swimming correspond with upper limb diaphyseal strength and shape in modern human athletes
Authors: Shaw Colin N. , Stock Jay T.
Published: April 2009

Variation in upper limb long bone cross‐sectional properties may reflect a phenotypically plastic response to habitual loading patterns. Structural differences between limb bones have often been used to infer past behavior from hominin remains; however, few studies have examined direct relationships between behavioral differences and bone structure in humans. To help address this, cross‐sectional images (50% length) of the humeri and ulnae of university varsity‐level swimmers, cricketers, and controls were captured using peripheral quantitative computed tomography. High levels of humeral robusticity were found in the dominant arms of cricketers, and bilaterally among swimmers, whereas the most gracile humeri were found in both arms of controls, and the nondominant arms of cricketers. In addition, the dominant humeri of cricketers were more circular than controls. The highest levels of ulnar robusticity were also found in the dominant arm of cricketers, and bilaterally amongst swimmers. Bilateral asymmetry in humeral rigidity among cricketers was greater than swimmers and controls, while asymmetry for ulnar rigidity was greater in cricketers than controls. The results suggest that more mechanically loaded upper limb elements––unilaterally or bilaterally––are strengthened relative to less mechanically loaded elements, and that differences in mechanical loading may have a more significant effect on proximal compared to distal limb segments. The more circular humerus in the dominant arm in cricketers may be an adaptation to torsional strain associated with throwing activities. The reported correspondence between habitual activity patterns and upper limb diaphyseal properties may inform future behavioral interpretations involving hominin skeletal remains. Am J Phys Anthropol 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Palladium(II) and platinum(II) complexes of (1R,2R)‐(−)‐1,2‐diaminocyclohexane (DACH) with various carboxylato ligands and their cytotoxicity evaluation
Authors: Al‐Allaf Talal A.K. , Rashan Luay J. , Ketler Gerhard , Fiebig Heinz‐Herbert , Al‐Dujaili Amar H.
Published: April 2009

Several palladium(II) and platinum(II) complexes analogous to oxaliplatin, bearing the enantiomerically pure (1R,2R)‐(−)‐1,2‐diaminocyclohexane (DACH) ligand, of the general formula {MX2[(1R,2R)‐DACH]}, where M = Pd or Pt, X $= {1 \over 2}$ (COO)2, ${1 \over 2}$ CH2(COO)2, , , ${1 \over 2}${1,1′‐C5H8(CH2COO)2}, ${1 \over 2}$[1,1′‐C6H10(CH2COO)2], ${1 \over 2}$[1,1′‐(COO)2ferrocene], , , , MeCOO and Me3CCOO, were synthesized. All the complexes prepared were characterized physicochemically and spectroscopically. Some selected complexes were screened in vitro against several tumor cell lines and the results were compared with reference standard drug, oxaliplatin. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Missing the target: A reply to Koehler & Macchi (2009)
Authors: Newell Ben R. , Mitchell Chris J. , Hayes Brett K.
Published: April 2009

Koehler and Macchi 2009 criticize the experiments presented in Newell, Mitchell, and Hayes 2008 as being “virtually irrelevant” to exemplar cuing theory. This reply addresses that interpretation and argues that the experiments dealt with issues at the heart of the theory and provided evidence highly relevant to understand how people think about low‐probability events. The role of the ‘target’ in probabilistic statements is examined, highlighting the need for further theoretical and empirical clarification of the concept. The remaining specific criticisms raised in the commentary are discussed as well. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Nested effects models for learning signaling networks from perturbation data
Authors: Fröhlich Holger , Tresch Achim , Beißbarth Tim
Published: April 2009

Targeted gene perturbations have become a major tool to gain insight into complex cellular processes. In combination with the measurement of downstream effectsviaDNA microarrays, this approach can be used to gain insight into signaling pathways.Nested Effects Modelswere first introduced by Markowetzet al. as a probabilistic method to reverse engineer signaling cascades based on the nested structure of downstream perturbation effects. The basic framework was substantially extended later on by Fröhlichet al., Markowetzet al., and Tresch and Markowetz. In this paper, we present a review of the complete methodology with a detailed comparison of so far proposed algorithms on a qualitative and quantitative level. As an application, we present results on estimating the signaling network between 13 genes in the ER‐α pathway of human MCF‐7 breast cancer cells. Comparison with the literature shows a substantial overlap.
Randomized clinical trial of antibiotic therapy versus appendicectomy as primary treatment of acute appendicitis in unselected patients
Authors: Hansson J , Körner U , Khorram-Manesh A , Solberg A , Lundholm K
Published: April 2009

Background

A trial in selected men suggested that antibiotic therapy could be an alternative to appendicectomy in appendicitis. This study aimed to evaluate antibiotic therapy in unselected men and women with acute appendicitis.

Methods

Consecutive patients were allocated to study (antibiotics) or control (surgery) groups according to date of birth. Study patients received intravenous antibiotics for 24 h and continued at home with oral antibiotics for 10 days. Control patients had a standard appendicectomy. Follow-up at 1 and 12 months was carried out according to intention and per protocol.

Results

Study and control patients were comparable at inclusion; 106 (52·5 per cent) of 202 patients allocated to antibiotics completed the treatment and 154 (92·2 per cent) of 167 patients allocated to appendicectomy had surgery. Treatment efficacy was 90·8 per cent for antibiotic therapy and 89·2 per cent for surgery. Recurrent appendicitis occurred in 15 patients (13·9 per cent) after a median of 1 year. A third of recurrences appeared within 10 days and two-thirds between 3 and 16 months after hospital discharge. Minor complications were similar between the groups. Major complications were threefold higher in patients who had an appendicectomy (P < 0·050).

Conclusion

Antibiotic treatment appears to be a safe first-line therapy in unselected patients with acute appendicitis. Registration number: NCT00469430 (http://www.clinicaltrials.gov).
Meta-analysis of defunctioning stomas in low anterior resection for rectal cancer
Authors: Tan W S , Tang C L , Shi L , Eu K W
Published: April 2009

Background

A defunctioning stoma is frequently created to minimize the impact of any subsequent anastomotic leak after a low rectal anastomosis. This review evaluates the need for routine stoma formation.

Methods

A meta-analysis was performed of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and non-randomized studies with an interventional group evaluating the need for a defunctioning stoma after low anterior resection for rectal cancer. Primary outcomes analysed included clinical anastomotic leak rate, reoperation rate and mortality related to leak.

Results

Four RCTs and 21 non-randomized studies, with 11 429 patients in total, were analysed. Meta-analysis of the RCTs showed a lower clinical anastomotic leak rate (risk ratio (RR) 0·39 (95 per cent c.i. 0·23 to 0·66); P < 0·001) and a lower reoperation rate (RR 0·29 (0·16 to 0·53); P < 0·001) in the stoma group. Meta-analysis of the non-randomized studies showed a lower clinical anastomotic leak rate (RR 0·74 (0·67 to 0·83); P < 0·001), lower reoperation rate (RR 0·28 (0·23 to 0·35); P < 0·001) and lower mortality rate (RR 0·42 (0·28 to 0·61); P < 0·001) in the stoma group.

Conclusion

A defunctioning stoma decreases clinical anastomotic leak rate and reoperation rate. It is recommended after low anterior resection for rectal cancer.
Studies on the influence of esterase inhibitor to the pharmacokinetic profiles of oseltamivir and oseltamivir carboxylate in rats using an improved LC/MS/MS method
Authors: Chang Qi , Chow Moses S. S. , Zuo Zhong
Published: April 2009

Oseltamivir (O), an ethyl ester prodrug of oseltamivir carboxylate (OC), is currently the drug of choice for avian influenza. Previous studies have found that the addition of esterase inhibitor can inhibit the metabolism of O to OC in plasma samples. The current study aims to evaluate the impact of dichlorvos on the rat plasma concentrations of O and OC and subsequent effect on their pharmacokinetics. The plasma samples of rats after oral administration of O were divided into two equal portions for treatment with/without dichlorvos. O and OC plasma concentrations were analyzed by a sensitive and specific LC/MS/MS method, using cephalexin as internal standard for both two analytes. The samples were extracted with an MCX cartridge and separated on a Nova‐Pak CN HP column eluted with a mobile phase of 0.15% formic acid in 50% methanol. The results showed that dichlorvos significantly inhibited further hydrolysis of O to OC during the period of rat plasma sample treatment. A significant difference in the pharmacokinetic parameters of O (except forTmaxandt1/2,λz)was found when the plasma samples were treated with dichlorvos. The use of dichlorvos is recommended in all rat studies which require plasma concentration determination of O and OC. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Determination of purine contents of alcoholic beverages using high performance liquid chromatography
Authors: Kaneko Kiyoko , Yamanobe Tomoyo , Fujimori Shin
Published: April 2009

The purine contents of alcoholic beverages were determined in order to utilize them in the dietary care of gout and hyperuricemia. In the management of these diseases, restriction of both alcohol and purine intake are important. The method employed in this study is a quantitative determination of purine contents by HPLC. Alcoholic beverages were hydrolyzed to corresponding purine bases, which were then separated by HPLC, and base peaks were identified using an enzymatic peak‐shift technique. This method is sufficiently accurate and reproducible to examine the purine contents of various alcoholic beverages that patients consume. Purine contents were as follows: spirits, 0.7–26.4 µmol/L; regular beer, 225.0–580.2 µmol/L; low‐malt beer, 193.4–267.9 µmol/L; low‐malt and low‐purine beer, 13.3 µmol/L; other liquors, 13.1–818.3 µmol/L. Some local and low‐alcohol beers were found to contain about 2.5 times more purines than regular beer. As some alcoholic beverages contain considerable amounts of purines, we recommend that excess consumption of these beverages be avoided. These data should be useful in the management of hyperuricemia and gout, not only for patients but also for physicians. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Interrelating within the families of young psychotherapy outpatients
Authors: Kalaitzaki Argyroula E. , Birtchnell John , Nestoros Joannis N.
Published: April 2009

Interrelating is a combination of relating to and being related to by another. The Couple's Relating to Each Other Questionnaires (CREOQ) and the Family Members Interrelating Questionnaires (FMIQ) measure negative forms of both self and other relating, across a close/distant and an upper/lower axis. These were used to measure the interrelating between the parents of young adults, and between young adults and their parents, in a sample of young, Greek, psychotherapy outpatients and a comparable sample of non‐ patients. In a proportion of both samples, the interrelating of the young adults was compared with that of a well sibling. The patients' parents were significantly more distant towards each other than those of the non‐patients. The interrelating between the patients and their parents was markedly worse than that between the non‐patients and their parents. It was also markedly worse between the patients and their parents than between the siblings and their parents. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Some Aspects of Reactive Complex Plasmas
Authors: Berndt J. , Kovačević E. , Stefanović I. , Stepanović O. , Hong S. H. , Boufendi L. , Winter J.
Published: April 2009

Reactive plasmas are nowadays widely used for technological applications. The spontaneous formation and growth of dust is a phenomenon frequently observed in such plasmas. The formation of dust particles has been observed in a great variety of different discharge types and in different kind of gases or gas mixtures. Due to the large variety of different phenomena that can be observed in reactive complex plasmas this article will address some selected (general) problems and examples that are specific for the physics and chemistry of such systems. These examples concern the formation and growth of dust particles in reactive plasmas, the mechanisms responsible for that growth processes, the spatial distribution of the dust particles within the discharge, the response of the plasma to the formation and growth of dust particles and some technological aspects (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Predictive value of hematological and phenotypical parameters on postchemotherapy leukocyte recovery
Authors: Bononi A. , Lanza F. , Ferrari L. , Gusella M. , Gilli G. , Abbasciano V. , Campioni D. , Russo A. , Menon D. , Albertini F. , Stievano L. , Barile C. , Crepaldi G. , Toso S. , Ferrazzi E. , Pasini F.
Published: April 2009

Background:

Grade IV chemotherapy toxicity is defined as absolute neutrophil count <500/μL. The nadir is considered as the lowest neutrophil number following chemotherapy, and generally is not expected before the 7th day from the start of chemotherapy. The usual prophylactic dose of rHu‐G‐CSF (Filgrastim) is 300 μg/day, starting 24–48 h after chemotherapy until hematological recovery. However, individual patient response is largely variable, so that rHu‐G‐CSF doses can be different. The aim of this study was to verify if peripheral blood automated flow cytochemistry and flow cytometry analysis may be helpful in predicting the individual response and saving rHu‐G‐CSF.

Methods:

During Grade IV neutropenia, blood counts from 30 cancer patients were analyzed daily by ADVIA 120 automated flow cytochemistry analyzer and by Facscalibur flow cytometer till the nadir. “Large unstained cells” (LUCs), myeloperoxidase index (MPXI), blasts, and various cell subpopulations in the peripheral blood were studied. At nadir rHu‐G‐CSF was started and 81 chemotherapy cycles were analyzed. Cycles were stratified according to their number and to two dose‐levels of rHuG‐CSF needed to recovery (300–600 vs. 900–1200 μg) and analyzed in relation to mean values of MPXI and mean absolute number of LUCs in the nadir phase. The linear regressions of LUCs % over time in relation to two dose‐levels of rHu‐G‐CSF and uni‐multivariate analysis of lymphocyte subpopulations, CD34+ cells, MPXI, and blasts were also performed.

Results:

In the nadir phase, the increase of MPXI above the upper limit of normality (>10; median 27.7), characterized a slow hematological recovery. MPXI levels were directly related to the cycle number and inversely related to the absolute number of LUCs and CD34+/CD45+ cells. A faster hematological recovery was associated with a higher LUC increase per day (0.56% vs. 0.25%), higher blast (median 36.7/μL vs. 19.5/μL) and CD34+/CD45+ cell (median 2.2/μL vs. 0.82/μL) counts.

Conclusions:

Our study showed that some biological indicators such as MPXI, LUCs, blasts, and CD34+/CD45+ cells may be of clinical relevance in predicting individual hematological response to rHu‐G‐CSF. Special attention should be paid when nadir MPXI exceeds the upper limit of normality because the hematological recovery may be delayed. © 2009 Clinical Cytometry Society
Kidney injury, electrolyte and acid‐base abnormalities associated with use of alternative medicine products
Authors: Ifudu Onyekachi , Friedman Eli A.
Published: April 2009

Alternative medicine treatment, defined broadly as the use of unproven therapies is increasingly popular in the United States. An estimated 40% of the population resorted to alternative medicine regimens in 1999 for either preventive, palliative, or therapeutic purposes. Alternative medicine products are characterized as untested remedies, containing unverified ingredients whose side effect profile is not defined. Their sale to the public is not regulated.

The kidneys, as excretory organs for drugs and toxins are susceptible to injury from toxicity imparted by untested and unregulated products. This reality is particularly pertinent to patients with compromised kidney function from prevalent disorders such as diabetes or hypertension. Chronic kidney disease (CKD), as defined by The National Kidney Foundation is a major public health problem in the United States, affecting over 20 million people.

Because, in the early stages, no symptoms attributable to CKD may be evident, the majority of those with CKD are unaware of their renal disorders. This lack of awareness of renal injury predisposes persons with early CKD to the potential harmful consequences of alternative medicine products.

We describe a patient requiring hospitalization for severe symptomatic electrolyte abnormalities after ingesting alternative medicine products, detailing literature reports of kidney injury, acid‐base, and electrolyte abnormalities associated with use of alternative medicine products.
Isomeric Preference in Complexes of Palladium(II) with Chelating P,N‐Donor Ligands
Authors: del Campo Olga , Carbayo Arancha , Cuevas José V. , García‐Herbosa Gabriel , Muñoz Asunción
Published: April 2009

Square‐planar complexes [PdCl{κ2‐(RN = CHC6H4PPh2)R′}] (R′ = Cl; R = 4‐CH3C6H4, 1a; R = 2‐CH3OC6H4, 1b; R = 2‐HOC6H4, 1c; R′ = CH3; R = 4‐CH3C6H4, 2a; R = 2‐CH3OC6H4, 2b; R = 2‐HOC6H4, 2c) have been prepared and characterized. In complexes 2a–c only formation of one isomer was observed. The Pd–methyl bond arranges in a cis position to the phosphane fragment of the P,N chelating ligand. Reaction of complexes 2a–c in acetonitrile with AgBF4 led to removal of the chlorido ligand and coordination of acetonitrile for 2a. However, for 2b and 2c coordination of the oxygen was observed and the chelating P,N ligands became tricoordinate. DFT calculations developed on models of the complexes displayed that the isomer with the methyl ligand coordinated in the cis position to the phosphane ligand were harder (or had a bigger HOMO/LUMO gap)(© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2009)
Structures, Redox and Spectroscopic Properties of PdII and PtII Complexes Containing an Azo Functionality
Authors: Roy Sayak , Hartenbach Ingo , Sarkar Biprajit
Published: April 2009

The complexes [PdCl2(pap)] (1) and [PtCl2(pap)] (2; pap = 2‐phenylazopyridine) were synthesized by treating PdCl2 or K2PtCl4, respectively, with pap and characterized by 1H NMR spectroscopy and elemental analysis. Both these complexes, together with the previously reported complex [(az)Pd(μ‐Cl)2Pd(az)] (3; az = azobenzene), were also characterized by X‐ray crystallography. The structures of 1, 2, and 3 show a slightly elongated N–N azo double bond due to back‐donation from the metal centers and a twisting of the uncoordinated part of the ligands with respect to the rest of the molecule. Cyclic voltammetry of 1, 2, 3, and the related complex [(az)Pt(μ‐Cl)2Pt(az)] (4) shows reduction processes which are reversible for 1 and 2 but irreversible for 3 and 4. The first reduction of 1 and 2 leads to radical complexes, and EPR spectroscopy shows the spin to be predominantly located on the azo part of the complexes. The radical complex 2·– shows an unprecedented 195Pt hyperfine coupling constant and g anisotropy for such PtII radical species. The UV/Vis spectroscopy results for all the complexes are also discussed.(© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2009)
Syntheses, Crystal Structures and Adsorption Properties of Ultramicroporous Coordination Polymers Constructed from Hexafluorosilicate Ions and Pyrazine
Authors: Uemura Kazuhiro , Maeda Akihisa , Maji Tapas Kumar , Kanoo Prakash , Kita Hidetoshi
Published: April 2009

Three novel coordination polymers based on M2+ (M = Cu, Zn), pyrazine (pyz) and the SiF62– ion, [Cu(SiF6)(pyz)(H2O)2]n (1a), {[Cu(SiF6)(pyz)3]·2H2O}n (1b blabla 2H2O) and {[Zn(SiF6)(pyz)2]·2MeOH}n (2 blabla 2MeOH), have been synthesized and characterized by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction analyses. Compound 1a forms straight one‐dimensional chains of–Cu(OH2)2–pyz–, which are bridged by SiF62– ions to produce two‐dimensional sheets. Compound 1b blabla 2H2O forms straight two‐dimensional sheets of –Cu(pyz)2–pyz– chains bridged by SiF62– ions, where perpendicularly protruding pyz planes are stacked to produce a three‐dimensional framework with 2.5 × 2.2 Å2 pores. In compound 2 blabla 2MeOH, grids of [Zn(pyz)2]n are bridged by SiF62– ions axially coordinating to Zn2+ ions to produce an open three‐dimensional framework. The 4.5 × 4.5 Å2 pores in 2 blabla 2MeOH are surrounded by pyz panels, and they remain intact after removal of solvents to give [Zn(SiF6)(pyz)2]n (2). The permanent porosity of 2 was characterized by adsorption studies with solvent vapours such as MeOH (kinetic diameter 3.8 Å), EtOH (4.3 Å), iPrOH (4.7 Å) and Me2CO (4.7 Å), showing a size‐exclusive effect at around 4.7 Å. Furthermore, the H2 adsorption/desorption isotherm of 2 at 77 K shows a sharp uptake with a slight hysteresis loop, which is attributed to both the small size of the pore and the interaction between H2 molecules and fluorine (SiF62–) atoms that are exposed on the pore surfaces. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2009)
Brønsted Acid or Solid Acid Catalyzed Aza‐Diels–Alder Reactions of Methylenecyclopropanes with Ethyl (Arylimino)acetates
Authors: Zhu Zhi‐Bin , Shao Li‐Xiong , Shi Min
Published: April 2009

Brønsted acid (TfOH) or solid acid (montmorillonite K‐10) catalyzed aza‐Diels–Alder reactions of methylenecyclopropanes with ethyl (arylimino)acetates were shown for the construction of the tetrahydroquinoline skeleton with the untouched cyclopropyl group in the 3,3′‐position. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2009)
Geomorphological evidence towards a de‐glacial control on volcanism
Authors: Carrivick Jonathan L. , Russell Andrew J. , Rushmer E. Lucy , Tweed Fiona S. , Marren Phillip M. , Deeming Hugh , Lowe Oliver J.
Published: April 2009

A number of theoretical, conceptual and numerical models exist for de‐glacial controls on volcanism, but geological evidence is scarce. We describe and explain a regional topographic and geomorphic expression of sub‐glacial volcanism, namely that at Kverkfjöll, Iceland. This area comprises a series of parallel sub‐glacially‐erupted volcanic edifices, which together give excellent 3D geological exposure. These ridges are orientated north‐south or along the most probable line of LGM ice margin retreat. We combine topographic and geomorphic observations to explain the changing style of volcanism in space, and attribute this to the recession and downwasting of the LGM ice sheet. Specifically, we observe that there is no spatial pattern to pillow lava edifice heights or volumes, indicating that fissure eruptions beneath the LGM ice sheet were of similar dynamics in space. However, hyaloclastite and hyalotuff deposits are restricted to proximal and high elevation positions. Furthermore, lithofacies are split by erosional contacts and hyalotuffs are faulted and intruded. These observations together suggest that as the overlying ice sheet became thinner volcanic activity became more explosive. Volcanic activity also appears to have ‘retreated’ towards the Kverkfjöll central volcano. Glacial outburst floods or ‘jökulhlaups’ were prevalent during de‐glaciation, partly because sub‐glacial meltwater could not be impounded due to the high gradient bedrock topography. For northern Iceland, our proposed sequence of landscape development suggests two major glacial advances during the Holocene, at least one of which at Kverkfjöll probably coincided with volcanic activity and a jökulhlaup. Future work should look to establish an absolute dating control and/or chronology. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The role of stem cell transplantation in the management of chronic lymphocytic leukaemia
Authors: Tam Constantine S. , Khouri Issa
Published: April 2009

The majority of patients diagnosed with chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) will ultimately die of their disease. Stem cell transplantation (SCT) remains the only treatment modality capable of cure, but has traditionally been associated with very high morbidity and mortality. We review the results of myeloablative autologous and allogeneic SCT in CLL, discuss the evolution of the new non‐myeloablative approaches, and make recommendations for when SCT should be considered in patients with CLL. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Biocompatibility of surfactant‐templated polyurea–nanoencapsulated macroporous silica aerogels with plasma platelets and endothelial cells
Authors: Yin Wei , Venkitachalam Subramaniam M. , Jarrett Ellen , Staggs Sarah , Leventis Nicholas , Lu Hongbing , Rubenstein David A.
Published: April 2009

The recently synthesized polyurea‐nanoencapsulated surfactant‐templated aerogels (X‐aerogels) are porous materials with significantly improved mechanical strengths. Surface‐wise they resemble polyurethane, a common biocompatible material, but their biocompatibility has never been investigated. As lightweight and strong materials, if X‐aerogels also have acceptable biocompatibility, they may be used in many implantable devices. The goal of this study was to investigate their biocompatibility toward platelets, blood plasma, and vascular endothelial cells, in terms of cell activation and inflammatory responses. Platelets were incubated with X‐aerogel and platelet activation was measured through CD62P and phosphatidylserine expression. Platelet aggregation was also measured. Contact with X‐aerogel did not induce platelet activation or impair aggregation. To determine X‐aerogel‐induced inflammation, plasma anaphylatoxin C3a level was measured after incubation with X‐aerogel. Results showed that X‐aerogel induced no changes in plasma C3a levels. SEM and SDS–PAGE were used to examine cellular/protein deposition on X‐aerogel samples after plasma incubation. No structural change or organic deposition was detected. Furthermore, X‐aerogel samples did not induce any significant changes in vascular endothelial cell culture parameters after 5 days of incubation. These observations suggest that X‐aerogels have a suitable biocompatibility toward platelets, plasma, and vascular endothelial cells, and they have potential for use in blood implantable devices. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 2010
Response of mid‐latitude North Pacific surface temperatures to orbital forcing and linkage to the East Asian summer monsoon and tropical ocean–atmosphere interactions
Authors: Yamamoto Masanobu
Published: April 2009

We present a palaeoceanographic perspective of the North Pacific during the last two glacial cycles based on U‐derived palaeotemperature records of IMAGES Core MD01‐2421 off the coast of central Japan and cores from the Ocean Drilling Program (ODP) Sites 1014 and 1016 off the coast of California. The sea surface temperature (SST) differences between ODP Sites 1014 and 1016 (ΔSSTnortheastern Pacific (NEP) = SSTODP1014 – SSTODP1016) indicate the intensity of the California Current. Comparison of ΔSSTNEP and the SST from Core MD01‐2421 revealed anti‐phase variation; high ΔSSTNEP (indicating weakening of the California Current) corresponded to low SST at the Japan margin (indicating the southward displacement of the north‐western Pacific subarctic boundary and weakening of the Kuroshio Extension), and vice versa. This finding suggests that the intensity of the North Pacific subtropical gyre circulation has varied in response to precessional forcing and that this response has been linked with changes in tropical ocean–atmosphere interactions. In the precessional cycle, the SST variation derived from Core MD01‐2421 lags ca. 2.5–4 ka behind the variations shown by Hulu and Sanbao stalagmite δ18O records and by the pollen temperature index from Core MD01‐2421, suggesting out‐of‐phase variations of the North Pacific subtropical gyre circulation and the East Asian summer monsoon. These findings indicate that the behaviour of interactions between tropical ocean–atmosphere dynamics and the East Asian summer monsoon may have varied in response to the precessional cycle. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.