bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
La participación ciudadana en Bogotá, 1990-2010. Discursos, trayectorias, expectativas y limitaciones
Authors: Hernández Andrés
Published: June 2012

This article provides an analysis of three main trends and citizenship participation processes which have grown and expanded during the last two decades within the city: First are the concerns over the explosion of citizen participation spaces in district and local governments; second, a new form of social accountability and control; third is the growing presence of new social movements, in particular the environmentalist movement. These three processes coordinate to defend participatory democracy and citizen participation in public affairs and rescue the central role of civil society. This coordination is nevertheless apparent in many issues, conflicts, and spaces represented through different projects.
La ciencia política, ciencia noética del orden Una mirada crítica sobre su “objeto” de estudio
Authors: Cárdenas Támara Felipe , Suárez Rozo Luisa Fernanda
Published: June 2012

This work has the following fundamental purposes: i) to respond by way of a critical review to the statements on political science’s object of study made by Rodrigo Losada and Andrés Casas in their recently published book Enfoques para el análisis político. Historia, epistemología y perspectivas de la ciencia política (Approaches for Political Analysis. History, Epistemology and Perspectives of Political Science, 2008); ii) to reflect on the theoretical reductionism in the conceptualization of the object of study of political science, present in some contemporary schools of thought, and, iii) to suggest the need to expand our understanding of our political reality from the intellectual perspective proposed by Eric Voegelin, who argued that political science is a noetic scientific discipline centered on the study of order and the experience of order in societies and human cultures. The contribution of the article refers to the reconstitution and resignification of political science as a scientific noetic discipline and to the multiple transdisciplinary fields that such a condition makes possible.
The Relationship of School Breakfast to Psychosocial and Academic Functioning
Authors: Murphy J. Michael , Pagano Maria E. , Nachmani Joan , Sperling Peter , Kane Shirley , Kleinman Ronald E.
Published: June 2012

Objective

To determine if a relationship exists between participation in a school breakfast program and measures of psychosocial and academic functioning in school-aged children.

Methods

Information on participation in a school breakfast program, school record data, and in-depth interviews with parents and children were collected in 1 public school in Philadelphia, Pa, and 2 public schools in Baltimore, Md, prior to the implementation of a universally free (UF) breakfast program and again after the program had been in place for 4 months. One hundred thirty-three low-income students had complete data before and after the UF breakfast program on school breakfast participation and school-recorded measures, and 85 of these students had complete psychosocial interview data before and after the UF breakfast program. Teacher ratings of behavior before and after the UF breakfast program were available for 76 of these students.

Results

Schoolwide data showed that prior to the UF breakfast program, 240 (15%) of the 1627 students in the 3 schools were eating a school-supplied breakfast each day. Of the 133 students in the interview sample, 24 (18%) of the students ate a school-supplied breakfast often, 26 (20%) ate a school-supplied breakfast sometimes, and 83 (62%) ate a school-supplied breakfast rarely or never. Prior to the UF breakfast program, students who ate a school-supplied breakfast often or sometimes had significantly higher math scores and significantly lower scores on child-, parent-, and teacher-reported symptom questionnaires than children who ate a school-supplied breakfast rarely or never. At the end of the school term 4 months after the implementation of the UF breakfast program, school-supplied breakfast participation had nearly doubled and 429 (27%) of the 1612 children in the 3 schools were participating in the school breakfast program each day. In the interview sample, almost half of the children had increased their participation. Students who increased their participation in the school breakfast program had significantly greater increases in their math grades and significantly greater decreases in the rates of school absence and tardiness than children whose participation remained the same or decreased. Child and teacher ratings of psychosocial problems also decreased to a significantly greater degree for children with increased participation in the school breakfast program.

Conclusion

Both cross-sectional and longitudinal data from this study provide strong evidence that higher rates of participation in school breakfast programs are associated in the short-term with improved student functioning on a broad range of psychosocial and academic measures.
Association between body mass index and anti–citrullinated protein antibody–positive and anti–citrullinated protein antibody–negative rheumatoid arthritis: Results from a population‐based case–control study
Authors: Wesley Annmarie , Bengtsson Camilla , Elkan Ann‐Charlotte , Klareskog Lars , Alfredsson Lars , Wedrén Sara ,   for the Epidemiological Investigation of Rheumatoid Arthritis Study Group
Published: June 2012

Objective

Being overweight or obese is associated with many chronic diseases, but previous studies of the association with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) have shown inconsistent results. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between body mass index (BMI) and the risk of developing the 2 main subtypes of RA.

Methods

At inclusion, cases and controls answered questions about their weight and height and donated blood samples. The presence of antibodies to citrullinated protein antigens (ACPAs) was analyzed among 2,748 cases and 3,444 controls (28% men). Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) were calculated using conditional logistic regression.

Results

Compared to those with normal weight (BMI <25 kg/m2), the adjusted overall OR for developing ACPA‐negative RA was 1.1 (95% CI 0.9–1.3) for overweight individuals (BMI ≥25 to <30 kg/m2) and 1.4 (95% CI 1.1–1.9) for obese individuals (BMI ≥30 kg/m2). When stratified by sex, the OR for ACPA‐negative RA for obese women was 1.6 (95% CI 1.2–2.2), and there was no association between obesity and ACPA‐negative RA in men (OR 1.1, 95% CI 0.6–1.8). In obese men compared to men with normal weight, the OR for ACPA‐positive RA was 0.6 (95% CI 0.3–0.9), while there was no association between BMI and ACPA‐positive RA among women (OR 1.0, 95% CI 0.8–1.2).

Conclusion

Our findings show that obesity is associated with developing ACPA‐negative RA in women, and indicate an inverse association between BMI and ACPA‐positive RA in men.
Racial differences in foot disorders and foot type
Authors: Golightly Yvonne M. , Hannan Marian T. , Dufour Alyssa B. , Jordan Joanne M.
Published: June 2012

Objective

To describe racial differences in the frequency of structural foot disorders and pes planus and pes cavus foot types in a large cohort of African American and white men and women ages ≥50 years.

Methods

Of 1,695 Johnston County Osteoarthritis Project participants evaluated for foot disorders/types in 2006–2010, 4 with lower extremity amputation were excluded, leaving 1,691 available for analyses (mean age 69 years, mean body mass index [BMI] 31.5 kg/m2, 68% women, 31% African American). The most common foot disorders/types were identified using a validated foot examination. Each foot disorder/type was compared by race using logistic regression, controlling for age, BMI, and sex. Effect modification between race (African American versus white) and age, BMI (categorized as ≥30 kg/m2 [obese] or <30 kg/m2 [nonobese]), sex, and education was examined.

Results

Hallux valgus (64%), hammer toes (35%), overlapping toes (34%), and pes planus (23%) were common. Compared to whites, African Americans were almost 3 times more likely to have pes planus and were nearly 5 times less likely to have Tailor's bunions or pes cavus. Among the nonobese, African Americans were more likely than whites to have hallux valgus (adjusted odds ratio [ORadj] 2.01, 95% confidence interval [95% CI] 1.39–2.92), hammer toes (ORadj 2.64, 95% CI 1.88–3.70), and overlapping toes (ORadj 1.53, 95% CI 1.09–2.13).

Conclusion

Foot disorders are common among adults ages ≥50 years and differ by race. Future research is needed to determine the etiology of foot problems, especially those with racial differences, in order to inform prevention approaches.
Comparison of children with onset of juvenile dermatomyositis symptoms before or after their fifth birthday in a UK and Ireland juvenile dermatomyositis cohort study
Authors: Martin N. , Krol P. , Smith S. , Beard L. , Pilkington C. A. , Davidson J. , Wedderburn L. R. ,   Juvenile Dermatomyositis Research Group (JDRG)
Published: June 2012

Objective

To compare 2 groups of children with juvenile dermatomyositis (DM), those with onset of symptoms before their fifth birthday versus those whose disease begins either on or after their fifth birthday, and to assess whether age at onset is associated with differences in disease presentation, treatments received, or outcomes 2 years after diagnosis.

Methods

Data were analyzed on children recruited to a UK juvenile DM cohort study with a diagnosis of probable or definite juvenile DM and less than 12 months between diagnosis and recruitment.

Results

Fifty‐five (35%) of 157 children had onset of symptoms before their fifth birthday. At diagnosis, cutaneous ulceration was found in 32.7% of the younger group versus 11.8% of the older group (P = 0.003). Facial or body swelling was reported more often in the younger group, whereas headaches, alopecia, and Raynaud's phenomenon were all more frequently reported in the older group. At followup 2 years later, there were no important differences in outcomes between the groups. More than 90% of patients in both groups received both methotrexate and steroids. Twenty‐three percent of both groups remained on steroids 2 years after diagnosis.

Conclusion

Our study showed that children with juvenile DM with disease onset at age <5 years are more likely to present with ulcerative skin disease and edema. There were no clinically significant differences in outcomes between the 2 groups.
Peptide Targeted Lipid Nanoparticles for Anticancer Drug Delivery
Authors: Pearce Timothy R. , Shroff Kamlesh , Kokkoli Efrosini
Published: June 2012

Encapsulating anticancer drugs in nanoparticles has proven to be an effective mechanism to alter the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic profiles of the drugs, leading to clinically useful cancer therapeutics like Doxil and DaunoXome. Underdeveloped tumor vasculature and lymphatics allow these first‐generation nanoparticles to passively accumulate within the tumor, but work to create the next‐generation nanoparticles that actively participate in the tumor targeting process is underway. Lipid nanoparticles functionalized with targeting peptides are among the most often studied. The goal of this article is to review the recently published literature of targeted nanoparticles to highlight successful designs that improved in vivo tumor therapy, and to discuss the current challenges of designing these nanoparticles for effective in vivo performance.
Unprecedented Selective Oxidation of Styrene Derivatives using a Supported Iron Oxide Nanocatalyst in Aqueous Medium
Authors: Rajabi Fatemeh , Karimi Nafiseh , Saidi Mohammad Reza , Primo Ana , Varma Rajender S. , Luque Rafael
Published: June 2012

Iron oxide nanoparticles supported on mesoporous silica‐type materials have been successfully utilized in the aqueous selective oxidation of alkenes under mild conditions using hydrogen peroxide as green oxidant. The supported catalyst could be easily recovered after completion of the reaction and reused several times without any loss in activity (no metal leaching observed during the reaction), constituting a facile and straightforward example of aqueous oxidation chemistry promoted by iron‐based heterogeneous systems.
Carbon Nitride‐Catalyzed Photoredox CC Bond Formation with N‐Aryltetrahydroisoquinolines
Authors: Möhlmann Lennart , Baar Moritz , Rieß Julian , Antonietti Markus , Wang Xinchen , Blechert Siegfried
Published: June 2012

In this communication we describe the oxidative CC bond formation of tertiary amines with various nucleophiles under very mild and environmental friendly conditions by using mesoporous graphitic carbon nitride (mpg‐C3N4) semiconductor as a heterogeneous, metal‐free photosensitizer in combination with visible light and oxygen as the terminal oxidation agent. This system can be further combined with proline‐organocatalysis to achieve oxidative tandem photocatalysis, demonstrating a rich cascade of chemical possibilities of the current photosynthesis system.
Samarium‐Promoted Asymmetric Aldol–Tishchenko Reaction: Synthesis of Amino Acid‐Derived 4‐Amino‐1,3‐diols
Authors: Rodríguez‐Solla Humberto , Concellón Carmen , Tuya Paula , García‐Granda Santiago , Díaz M. Rosario
Published: June 2012

A samarium‐mediated novel synthesis of enantiopure 4‐amino‐1,3‐diols is carried out through a samarium‐promoted aldol–Tishchenko reaction starting from chiral α′‐amino‐α‐chloro ketones (derived from natural α‐amino acids) and aldehydes. The process takes place with moderate levels of stereoselectivity and in high yields. A mechanism is proposed to explain these results while the absolute configuration and structure of the aldol–Tishchenko adducts were established by X‐ray analysis. This method has also been utilized for the synthesis of enigmols, 1‐deoxysphingoid base analogues.
N‐Octanoyldimethylglycine Trifluoroethyl Ester, an Acyl Donor Leading to Highly Enantioselective Protease‐Catalysed Kinetic Resolution of Amines
Authors: Queyroy Severine , Vanthuyne Nicolas , Gastaldi Stéphane , Bertrand Michèle P. , Gil Gérard
Published: June 2012

The use of N‐octanoyldimethylglycine trifluoroethyl ester as acyl donor in the kinetic resolution of aliphatic amines catalysed by proteases led to enantiomeric ratios >200 in most cases. The resolutions mediated by Protex 6L were shown to be much faster than the resolutions achieved with the most efficient commercially available serine proteases, i.e., alkaline protease, Properase 1600L, and Subtilisin
Iron‐Catalyzed Synthesis of Allenes from 2‐Alken‐4‐ynoates and Grignard Reagents
Authors: Hata Takeshi , Iwata Satoshi , Seto Shumpei , Urabe Hirokazu
Published: June 2012

Treatment of 2‐alken‐4‐ynoates with methyl‐ or aryl‐Grignard reagents and iron(II) chloride (10 mol%) afforded 5‐methyl‐ or 5‐aryl‐3,4‐alkadienoates in good yields as a single isomer after aqueous work‐up. Likewise, (2‐alken‐4‐ynoyl)oxazolidinones afforded (5‐methyl‐3,4‐alkadienoyl)oxazolidinones. The aldol‐type reaction with acetone was also possible in place of the hydrolytic work‐up.
Phosphite‐Gold(I)‐Catalyzed [2+2] Intermolecular Cycloaddition of Enol Ethers with N‐Allenylsulfonamides
Authors: Suárez‐Pantiga Samuel , Hernández‐Díaz Cristina , Piedrafita María , Rubio Eduardo , González José M.
Published: June 2012

Addition of catalytic amounts of a phosphite‐based gold(I) catalyst efficiently triggers the intermolecular [2+2] cycloaddition of allenes and alkenes substituted by electron‐donor groups. The reaction is fast and furnishes cyclobutane derivatives in a stereoselective manner using low catalyst loadings. Besides, the same catalyst selectively affords homodimerization products from the starting allene, a process that may be conveniently fine tuned by addition of norbornene.
Gold(I)‐Catalyzed Intermolecular [2+2] Cycloadditions between Allenamides and Alkenes
Authors: Faustino Hélio , Bernal Paloma , Castedo Luis , López Fernando , Mascareñas José L.
Published: June 2012

3‐(Propa‐1,2‐dien‐1‐yl)oxazolidin‐2‐one works as an efficient two‐carbon partner in a variety of intermolecular gold‐catalyzed [2+2] cycloadditions to alkenes. The transformation represents a simple and practical entry to highly substituted cyclobutane derivatives and takes place with complete regio‐ and stereocontrol.
Intramolecular Azide‐Alkene 1,3‐Dipolar Cycloaddition/Enamine Addition(s) Cascade Reaction: Synthesis of Nitrogen‐Containing Heterocycles
Authors: de Miguel Irene , Herradón Bernardo , Mann Enrique
Published: June 2012

A cascade intramolecular azide‐alkene 1,3‐dipolar cycloaddition/1,2 enamine and/or 1,4 enamine addition reaction sequence has been developed, and provides access to a variety of nitrogen containing heterocycles from readily available ω‐azido alkenes.
Dithiolane‐Directed Tandem Oxidation/1,2‐Benzyl Migration of Tetramic Acids under Ambient Conditions
Authors: Li Yifei , Xu Xianxiu , Xia Chunyu , Pan Ling , Liu Qun
Published: June 2012

Reactions directly involving triplet oxygen are an important issue in organic and biological chemistry. We now report that exposure of tetramic acids in the open air (molecular oxygen) at room temperature can lead to the formation of succinimide derivatives in high to excellent yields via tandem oxidation/1,2‐benzyl migration. In this reaction, the dithiolane moiety plays a crucial role and succinimides are produced either in the presence or absence of dibutyl sulfide as reductant.
One‐Pot Cascade Reactions using Fructose‐6‐phosphate Aldolase: Efficient Synthesis of D‐Arabinose 5‐Phosphate, D‐Fructose 6‐Phosphate and Analogues
Authors: Sánchez‐Moreno Israel , Hélaine Virgil , Poupard Nicolas , Charmantray Franck , Légeret Bertrand , Hecquet Laurence , García‐Junceda Eduardo , Wohlgemuth Roland , Guérard‐Hélaine Christine , Lemaire Marielle
Published: June 2012

One‐pot multienzymatic reactions have been performed for the synthesis of 1‐deoxy‐D‐fructose 6‐phosphate, 1,2‐dideoxy‐D‐arabino‐hept‐3‐ulose 7‐phosphate, D‐fructose 6‐phosphate and D‐arabinose 5‐phosphate. The whole synthetic strategy is based on an aldol addition reaction catalysed by fructose‐6‐phosphate aldolase (FSA) as a key step of a three or four enzymes‐catalysed cascade reaction. The four known donors for FSA – dihydroxyacetone (DHA), hydroxyacetone (HA), 1‐hydroxy‐2‐butanone (HB) and glycolaldehyde (GA) – were used with D‐glyceraldehyde 3‐phosphate as acceptor substrate. The target phosphorylated sugars were obtained in good to excellent yields and high purity.
Nickel‐Catalyzed Cross‐Coupling of Arene‐ or Heteroarenecarbonitriles with Aryl‐ or Heteroarylmanganese Reagents through CCN Bond Activation
Authors: Liu Ning , Wang Zhong‐Xia
Published: June 2012

The nickel‐catalyzed cross‐coupling reaction of arene‐ or heteroarenecarbonitriles with aryl‐ or heteroarylmanganese reagents via CCN bond activation has been developed. Both electron‐rich and electron‐deficient nitriles can be employed as the electrophilic substrates. The reaction tolerates a range of functional groups and aromatic heterocycles.
Finite volume method for falling liquid films carrying monodisperse spheres in Newtonian regime
Authors: Bohorquez Patricio
Published: June 2012

A finite volume method is proposed to study the dynamics of unsteady, falling liquid films carrying monodisperse spheres in Newtonian regime under the action of gravity. The Navier–Stokes equations were rewritten to implement a numerical scheme with interface capturing capability, able to compute discontinuities in the solid volumetric concentration and free surface flows. The interface capturing property is checked with simple benchmarks, showing that experimental data for a vertical settler and the dynamics of the wetting front in a thin liquid film are reproduced with success. Also, the numerical scheme computes with accuracy Kapitza instability or viscous roll waves. This work concludes illustrating the applicability of the model to study viscous resuspension phenomenon in a unsteady, falling suspension film. © 2012 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 58: 2601–2616, 2012
Prevalence of dermatitis in the working population, United States, 2010 National Health Interview Survey
Authors: Luckhaupt Sara E. , Dahlhamer James M. , Ward Brian W. , Sussell Aaron L. , Sweeney Marie H. , Sestito John P. , Calvert Geoffrey M.
Published: June 2012

Background

Prevalence patterns of dermatitis among workers offer clues about risk factors and targets for prevention, but population‐based estimates of the burden of dermatitis among US workers are lacking.

Methods

Data from an occupational health supplement to the 2010 National Health Interview Survey (NHIS‐OHS) were used to estimate the prevalence of dermatitis overall and by demographic characteristics and industry and occupation (I&O) of current/recent employment.

Results

Data were available for 27,157 adults, including 17,524 current/recent workers. The overall prevalence rate of dermatitis among current/recent workers was 9.8% (range among I&O groups: 5.5–15.4%), representing approximately 15.2 million workers with dermatitis. The highest prevalence rates were among I&O groups related to health care. Overall, 5.6% of dermatitis cases among workers (9.2% among healthcare workers) were attributed to work by health professionals.

Conclusions

Dermatitis affected over 15 million US workers in 2010, and its prevalence varied by demographic characteristics and industry and occupation of employment. The prevalence rate of work‐related dermatitis based on the NHIS‐OHS was approximately 100‐fold higher than incidence rates based on the Bureau of Labor Statistics' Survey of Occupational Illness and Injury. Am. J. Ind. Med. 56:625–634, 2013. Published 2012. This article is a U.S. Government work and is in the public domain in the USA.
A comparison of organic matters responsible for immersed ultrafiltration membranes fouling in drinking water treatment
Authors: Qi Lu , Wang Hong‐chen , Zheng Xiang , Zhang Guang‐ming , Yu Guang‐hui , Li Gui‐bai
Published: June 2012

Membrane fouling caused by natural organic matter is an important problem in drinking water treatment. In this study, bench‐scale experiments using three different types of ultrafiltration (UF) membranes were carried out with the surface water of the Songhua River in China in order to investigate the effect of natural organic matter on membrane fouling. Organic matter that caused reversible and irreversible fouling in the filtration operation was desorbed from the fouled membranes and subjected to chemical fractionation and Fourier transform infrared analyses. These analyses revealed that hydrophilic organic matter accounted for the majority of both reversible and irreversible fouling, regardless of the type of membrane. Results also demonstrated that the type of organic matter responsible for fouling differed significantly and depended on the type of membrane. The main types of organic matter that caused reversible fouling were hydrophilic organic matter and hydrophobic acids, for the polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and polysulfone (PS) membranes and hydrophilic matter and weakly hydrophobic acids, for the polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) membrane. Hydrophobic acids were largely responsible for the irreversible fouling of PVDF membranes. The PVC membrane was more vulnerable to fouling because of the hydrophilic fraction, and the PS membrane was most easily fouled by the hydrophobic neutral fraction. © 2012 Curtin University of Technology and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Optimization and characteristics of preparing chitosan microspheres using response surface methodology
Authors: Zhou Xuan , Cheng Xiao Jie , Liu Wei Fang , Li Jing , Ren Li Hong , Dang Qi Feng , Feng Chao , Chen Xi Guang
Published: June 2012

In this study, response surface methodology (RSM) was employed to optimize preparation of chitosan microspheres (CMs). Firstly, Plackett–Burman design (PBD) was applied to screen out the factors, which influence preparation of CMs significantly. The results showed that the concentration of chitosan and acetic acid as well as the volume of toluene were the key factors. Then, steepest ascent experiment and Box–Behnken design were introduced to optimize the levels of the key factors. As a result, the appropriate conditions of preparing CMs were chosen as follows: 2% (w/v) chitosan, 1.7% (v/v) acetic acid, 7 mL span‐80, 488 mL toluene, 1100 rpm, 60 min (emulsification time), 10 mL formaldehyde, and 60 min (crosslinking time). Also, the morphology, size particle, and FTIR spectra of CMs were studied by scanning electron microscopy, small angle laser light scattering, and FTIR spectrometer. Results showed that CMs had quite smooth surface spherical and sharp size distribution, which indicated that the CMs were successfully prepared by W/O emulsification crosslinking method using RSM. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013
Synthesis and characterization of copolymeric aliphatic–aromatic esters derived from terephthalic acid, 1,4‐butanediol, and ε‐caprolactone by physical, thermal, and mechanical properties and NMR measurements
Authors: Wang Ching‐Huang , Tsai Ping‐Hsun , Kan Lou‐Sing , Chen C. Will
Published: June 2012

In this study, a series of aliphatic–aromatic poly(butylene terephthalate‐co‐ε‐caprolactone) (PBTCL) copolyesters were synthesized from various monomeric compositions of terephthalic acid (TPA), 1,4‐butanediol (BDO), and ε‐caprolactone (CL) in the presence of tetrabutyl titanate (Ti(Obu)4) and stannous octoate (Sn(Oct)2) as catalysts through a combination of polycondensation and ring opening polymerization. A significant increase in the melting temperature (Tm) of copolyesters was observed by increasing the TPA/(CL+TPA) molar ratio, starting from the low end (Tm 66.2°C) of pure poly‐ε‐caprolactone PCL upward. We found that PBTCL‐50, which has a TPA/(CL+TPA) 50% molar ratio and polycondensation at 260°C for 1.5 h, resulted in a proper Tm of 139.2°C that facilitates thermal extrusion from biomass or other biodegradable polymers of similar Tm. The number–average molecular weight (Mn) of 7.4 × 104 for PBTCL‐50 was determined from the intrinsic viscosity [η] by using the Berkowitz model of Mn = 1.66 × 105[η]0.9. Good mechanical properties of PBTCL‐50 have been shown by tensile stretching experiment that indicates tensile strength, elongation, and Young's modulus are 11.9 MPa, 132%, and 257 MPa, respectively. Polymers with aforementioned properties are suitable for manufacturing biodegradable plastic films for downstream agricultural applications or merely for trash bag. This article reveals that the PBTCL‐50 contains all five monomers with different molar ratios and characteristical linkages between each other. The novel structure was furthermore analyzed by 1H‐ and 13C‐NMR spectroscopy. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013
Investigation of temperature sensitivity behaviors of water soluble polyacrylamides
Authors: Uğuzdoğan Erdal , Denkbaş Emir Baki , Kabasakal Osman Sermet
Published: June 2012

Temperature sensitive polymers with a lower critical solution temperature (LCST) are used in a variety of industries such as the pharmaceutical, cosmetic, food, and paint. These polymers are generally of the poly(N‐alkylacrylamide) type, of which poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPA) is the most commonly used. More novel poly(N‐alkylacrylamide)s have also been the subject of much attention recently. In this study, N‐alkylacrylamides containing different alkyl groups were synthesized by nucleophylic substitution reactions of various amines with acryloyl chloride. They were polymerized using the solution polymerization method, and the temperature sensitivities of the polymers were investigated. For this purpose, three monomers, N,N‐diethylacrylamide, N‐cyclopropylacrylamide, and 4‐piperidineethanolacrylamide, were synthesized using diethylamine, cyclopropylamine, and 4‐piperidineethanol, as the amines, respectively. The obtained polymers, poly(N,N‐diethylacrylamide) (PDEA), poly(N‐cyclopropylacrylamide) (PCPA), and poly(4‐piperidineethanolacrylamide) (PPEA), were found to be thermoresponsive, particularly PPEA is a potential novel material that can be utilized as an alternative to the common temperature sensitive polymers. The effects of several conditions on the LCST and the critical flocculation temperature (CFT) of the polymers were also investigated. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013
Evaluation of a functionalized copolymer as adsorbent on direct dyes removal process: Kinetics and equilibrium studies
Authors: Muntean Simona Gabriela , Paska Oana , Coseri Sergiu , Simu Georgeta Maria , Grad Maria Elena , Ilia Gheorghe
Published: June 2012

Functionalized polymeric microbeads were investigated as adsorbent for the removal of three direct dyes from aqueous solutions. The effects of different experimental parameters, such as initial dye concentration, temperature, and solution pH on the adsorption process were investigated. The adsorption process can be conducted with very good result at normal working conditions: neutral pH and normal temperature. The maximum percentage removal obtained was 99.11% for the symmetrical disazo dye, 90.14% for asymmetrical disazo dye, and 98.53% for trisazo dye. The adsorption kinetics followed the pseudo‐second‐order equation for all three investigated dyes in all working conditions. The experimental data were fitted to Langmuir, Freundlich, Sips, and Redlich–Peterson isotherm models, and the best fit was obtained with Sips model. Thermodynamic parameters (ΔH°, ΔS°, and ΔG°) revealed that dye adsorption is an endothermic and spontaneous process. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013
Fabrication and characterization of HCl‐treated clinoptilolite filled ethylene vinyl acetate composite films
Authors: Mishra Ajay K. , Mishra Shivani B. , Mamba Bhekie B. , Dlamini Derrick S. , Mthombo Thabo S.
Published: June 2012

As received and HCl treated Clinoptilolite (C)‐ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) composites were prepared via the melt‐mixing technique, and extruded through a single‐screw extruder to obtain composite strips with an average thickness of 0.5 mm. The films were then characterized for their morphological, structural, thermal, and mechanical properties. Optical micrographs show that at higher C loading, the particles form large agglomerates, resulting in the formation of voids on the surface of the films. With increasing zeolite loading, the films become brittle, resulting in reduced Young's modulus. Acid treatment of the C tends to affect the crystal structure of the zeolite, resulting in poor tensile properties of the HCl‐treated zeolite‐filled EVA films. Addition of the zeolite also increased the crystallinity of the structure, acting as a nucleating agent in the EVA crystallization. Modeling of the tensile yield data with Pukanszky model indicate that there is poor interfacial adhesion between the polymer matrix and the filler particles. Thermal characterization studies showed that addition of the zeolites retarded the onset degradation temperature of EVA. However, degradation temperatures including Tmax and the final decomposed temperature were increased, suggesting improved thermal stability due to reduced inter‐chain mobility in the composite materials as a result of increased zeolite loading. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013
The Monks of Drepung Gomang Monastery: Impressions and Speculations on Alternative Models of Masculinity as they Relate to Resilience to Trauma
Authors: Sarin Madhu
Published: June 2012

As a practitioner of psychoanalysis and psychotherapy, I volunteered with the Tibetan Government in Exile in the field of mental health. In late 2006, the Tibetan Government in Exile approached me to evaluate and counsel monks who had left Tibet to get a monastic education at the Drepung Gomang Monastery in Mungod, Karnataka. I was struck by the resilience of these young men, despite the horrors they had survived in the process of trying to get this education in their own country, which is under occupation by the Chinese, and fleeing Tibet alone, during adolescence or as very young children. I want to offer some speculative impressions about my experiences and observations of the masculinity of these monks, which felt quite different from my experience with other men. This article attempts to make sense of my experience of their masculinity, and to account for the differences I observed, but could not fully understand. I offer some speculations about the relationship of their experience of masculinity, as an additional factor in their resilience to trauma.

Although the therapeutic encounter with them was the occasion to bring these differences to my attention they do not form the basis for my speculations. These are based on my understanding of masculinity as theorized by psychoanalysis, and what I have learned about the history, functioning and ideals, which inform Tibetan culture and the monastic order. I highlight two aspects of the masculinity of Buddhist monks from this tradition: one which comes from the Bodhisattva tradition and incorporates nurturing “feminine” qualities, and the second which involves sublimating and neutralizing “dangerous” “female” qualities into their attainment of higher spiritual ends. I speculate in the end on the ways in which an alternative experience of gender may be a contributing protective factor in the survival of violence and exile. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
When Father is Not There: The Absence of the Father as a Generating Factor of Violence
Authors: Botèro Hilda
Published: June 2012

“Where's dad?” When this restlessness is implanted into a child's psyche, an atmosphere of “unmet” need settles in. Physical and emotional mistreatment by the father profoundly affects the fetus and mother. There are several factors at play in this situation: infantile experiences, the father's past experiences and his own maltreatment. The physical and emotional absence of the father or their aggressive presence fosters a language of violence and destructiveness, “violence generates violence.”

What is the function of this actor in the grand scheme of life? If both parties lit the flame of life, both are responsible for it and both must recognize their functions in relation to their introjected parental objects. An infant, who is well nurtured in an established atmosphere where the prenatal functions/needs are positively met, will grow and mature with a sense of security and trust crucial for the development of his/her unique potential, physical growth, and intellectual achievement; furthermore this scenario will result in an independent, optimistic and benevolent nuclear family. The child's insertion in the community will be also free of suspicions and encourage its development. The community will have a function of patronage in relation to its members. This must serve as “good enough mothering” for its members.

Three clinical case studies of absent fathers will illustrate the dramatic situation of abandoned mothers and children. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
New vistas for treatment of obesity and diabetes? Endocannabinoid signalling and metabolism in the modulation of energy balance
Authors: Lipina Christopher , Rastedt Wiebke , Irving Andrew J. , Hundal Harinder S.
Published: June 2012

Growing evidence suggests that pathological overactivation of the endocannabinoid system (ECS) is associated with dyslipidemia, obesity and diabetes. Indeed, this signalling system acting through cannabinoid receptors has been shown to function both centrally and peripherally to regulate feeding behaviour as well as energy expenditure and metabolism. Consequently, modulation of these receptors can promote significant alterations in body weight and associated metabolic profile. Importantly, blocking cannabinoid receptor type 1 function has been found to prevent obesity and metabolic dysfunction in various murine models and in humans. Here we provide a detailed account of the known physiological role of the ECS in energy balance, and explore how recent studies have delivered novel insights into the potential targeting of this system as a therapeutic means for treating obesity and related metabolic disorders.
Quantitative analysis of acetaminophen and its six metabolites in rat plasma using liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: An Ji Hye , Lee Hwa Jeong , Jung Byung Hwa
Published: June 2012

Acetaminophen (APAP) is a widely used analgesic and antipyretic drug. It is mainly metabolized by phase 1 and 2 reactions in the liver, and thus it could be involved in many drug–drug interactions. Therefore, the study of APAP metabolism is important in toxicological and pharmacokinetic studies. The objective of this study was to develop a rapid and sensitive method for the determination of APAP and its six metabolites in rat plasma for the pharmacokinetic studies. APAP and its metabolites were separated through a Capcell Pak MGII C18 column and quantitated with a 16 min run in a triple‐quadruple mass spectrometer. The mobile phases were composed of 0.1% formic acid in either 95% water or 95% acetonitrile and analysis was performed twice in positive and negative modes. Validations such as accuracy, precision, recovery, matrix effect and stability were found to be within acceptance criteria of validation guidelines, indicating that the assay was applicable to the determination of the plasma concentrations of drug and its six metabolites. In conclusion, we developed an LC‐MS/MS method for the quantitative analysis of APAP and its six metabolites in rat plasma, and this method appears to be useful for pharmacokinetic/toxicokinetic studies of APAP and its metabolites in rats. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Preclinical pharmacokinetic analysis of armillarisin succinate ester in mouse plasma and tissues by LC–MS/MS
Authors: Chen Qinhua , Li Peng , Zhang Jinfeng , Zhu Jun
Published: June 2012

A liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) has been developed and validated to determine the concentration of armillarisin succinate ester in mouse plasma and tissues, used for preclinical evaluation. Bavachin was employed as the internal standard. Separation was performed on a 3.5 µm Zorbax SB‐C18 column (30 × 2.1 mm), with a mobile phase consisting of methanol and aqueous 20 mm ammonium acetate. Both analyte and internal standard were determined using electrospray ionization and the MS data acquisition was via selected ion monitoring in negative scanning mode. Quantification was performed using the transitions m/z 333 → 233 and 323 → 221 for armillarisin succinate ester and internal standard, respectively. The method was validated with respect to linearity, accuracy, precision, recovery and stability. This assay has been successfully applied to a pharmacokinetic and tissue distribution study after intravenous injection of ASE in mouse in a dose of 10 mg/kg. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Simultaneous determination of carisoprodol and aspirin in human plasma using liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry in polarity switch mode: application to a human pharmacokinetic study
Authors: Sreenivasulu Vudagandla , Ramesh Mullangi , Kumar Inamadugu Jaswanth , Babu Ravi Vasu , Pilli Nageswara Rao , Krishnaiah Abburi
Published: June 2012

A simple, sensitive and rapid LC‐MS/MS‐ESI method has been developed and validated for simultaneous quantification of the carisoprodol and aspirin in human plasma. Carisoprodol was detected in positive ion mode, whereas aspirin was detected in negative ion mode. Carbamazepine and furosemide were used as internal standards (IS) for quantification of carisoprodol and aspirin, respectively. The extraction procedure involves a liquid–liquid extraction method with ter‐butyl methyl ether. Chromatographic separation was achieved on a Zorbax XDB‐Phenyl (4.6 × 75 mm, 3.5 µm) column using an isocratic mobile phase (5 mm ammonium acetate:methanol, 20:80, v/v) at a flow rate of 0.8 mL/min with a total run time of 2.2 min. A detailed method validation was performed as per the FDA guidelines. The standard curves found to be linear in the range of 25.5–4900 and 15.3–3000 ng/mL for carisoprodol and aspirin, respectively. The results met the acceptance criteria. Carisoprodol and aspirin were found to be stable in various stability studies. The validated method was successfully applied to a pharmacokinetic study following co‐administration of carisoprodol (250 mg) and aspirin (75 mg) tablets by oral route to human volunteers. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Rapid LC‐MS/MS determination and pharmacokinetic application of linarin in rat plasma
Authors: Yan Chong , Liu Hongju , Lin Li
Published: June 2012

A sensitive, selective and robust liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC‐MS/MS) method was developed for the rapid determination of linarin in rat plasma. Separation of the analyte and warfarin as internal standard (IS) from 100 μL rat plasma was carried out by simple protein precipitation treatment. Chromatographic separation of the analyte was performed on a Diamonsil® C18 column (150 × 4.6 mm, 5 µm) using isocratic mobile phase consisting of methanol–0.5% formic acid (80:20, v/v). The flow rate was 0.6 mL/min and the total run time was not more than 4.0 min. The method was validated over a wide dynamic concentration range of 1.00–1000 ng/mL for linarin. The precision and accuracy values for linarin met the acceptance criteria according to US Food and Drug Administration guidelines. Linarin was stable in the stability studies including a long‐term test (−80°C for 43 days), a short‐term test (ambient for 2 h and autosampler for 8 h) and three freeze–thaw cycles (−80–25°C). The developed assay method was applied to the pharmacokinetic study in rats after a single intramuscular administration of 713 µg/kg linarin. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Anatomical planes: Are we teaching accurate surface anatomy?
Authors: Mirjalili S. Ali , McFadden Sarah L. , Buckenham Tim , Wilson Ben , Stringer Mark D.
Published: June 2012

Anatomical planes used in clinical practice and teaching anatomy are largely derived from cadaver studies. Numerous inconsistencies in clinically important surface markings exist between and within anatomical reference texts. The aim of this study was to reassess the accuracy of common anatomical planes in vivo using computed tomographic (CT) imaging. CT scans of the trunk in supine adults at end tidal inspiration were analyzed by dual consensus reporting to determine the anatomy of five anatomical planes: sternal angle, transpyloric, subcostal, supracristal, and the plane of the pubic crest. Patients with kyphosis, scoliosis, or abnormal lordosis, distorting space‐occupying lesions, or visceromegaly were excluded. Among 153 thoracic CT scans (mean age 63 years, 53% female), the sternal angle was most common at T4 (females) or T4/5 (males) vertebral level, and the tracheal bifurcation, aortic arch, and pulmonary trunk were most often below this plane. In 108 abdominal CT scans (mean age 60 years, 59% female), the subcostal and supracristal planes were most often at L2 (58%) and L4 (69%), respectively. In 52 thoracoabdominal CT scans (mean age 61 years, 56% female), the transpyloric plane was between lower L1 and upper L2 (75%); in this plane were the superior mesenteric artery (56%), formation of the portal vein (53%), tip of the ninth rib (60%), and the left renal hilum (54%), but the right renal hilum and gallbladder fundus were more often below. The surface anatomy of anatomical planes needs revising in the light of results from living subjects using modern imaging techniques. Clin. Anat. 25:819–826, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc
Assessment of diffraction‐enhanced synchrotron imaging for cartilage degeneration of the human knee joint
Authors: Li J. , Wilson N. , Zelazny A. , Meyer J. , Zhong Z. , Muehleman C.
Published: June 2012

Diffraction‐enhanced imaging (DEI) is a radiographic technology that harnesses the X‐ray refraction and scatter rejection properties that are not available with conventional radiography. Here, we test the efficacy of planar DEI to render images from which cartilage degeneration, characteristic of osteoarthritis, can be detected. DEI was carried out on human cadaveric intact knee joints at the X‐15 beamline at the National Synchrotron Light Source. The gross specimens and the DEI images were graded separately for levels of cartilage degeneration on six individual surfaces: anterior and posterior femoral and tibial on both medial and lateral sides. There was a significant correlation between the actual levels of cartilage degeneration and what was observed in their respective DEI images (P < 0.05) for all six articular surfaces. Some articular surfaces (patellar surfaces, in particular) could not be visualized because of overlap with superimposed bone. Sensitivity for the graded articular surfaces was 0.73 and specificity was 0.92 (Grade 0 being no lesion and Grades 1–6 being increasing gradations of lesions). Chondrocalcinosis was also observed in DEI images to a far greater extent compared with the conventional radiographs. DEI renders images that are significantly correlated with their actual gross morphology. Detection of lesions was better for more severe grades of degeneration than for partial focal lesions. Although some articular surfaces could not be visualized because of superimposed bone, we feel that DEI has potential for the diagnosis of cartilage lesions and chondrocalcinosis. Clin. Anat. 26:621–629, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Lichtabsorption durch Tryptophan aktiviert pflanzlichen UV‐B‐Rezeptor
Authors: Hille‐Rehfeld Annette
Published: June 2012

Pflanzen reagieren vielfältig auf Bestrahlung mit UV‐Licht: Die verstärkte Synthese von phenolischen Schutzpigmenten und DNA‐Reparaturenzymen wirkt Strahlenschäden entgegen, Veränderungen der Morphogenese erhöhen darüber hinaus die allgemeine Stresstoleranz. Die erforderlichen Veränderungen der Genexpression werden durch einen UV‐B‐Rezeptor besonderer Art eingeleitet, der das UV‐Licht mit Hilfe von Tryptophan‐Bestandteilen einfängt. Somit unterscheidet er sich grundlegend von den Photorezeptoren für sichtbares Licht, bei denen immer die lichtinduzierte chemische Modifikation eines Chromophors die Signaltransduktion einleitet.
Platin‐Recycling
Authors: Feil Sylvia
Published: June 2012

Fein verteiltes Platin ist der beste kathodische Katalysator in PEMBrennstoffzellen (proton‐exchange membrane). Allerdings ist der Platin‐Gehalt je Brennstoffzelle recht hoch. Der hohe Aufwand der Platin‐Gewinnung schlägt sich im Preis nieder. Das Edelmetall zu recyceln gelingt bislang nur durch schwierige, komplizierte Prozesse. Einen neuen Weg schlagen taiwanesische Chemiker vor: Sie setzen auf eine Elektrolyse mit ionischen Flüssigkeiten als Elektrolyt.
“Walter E. Richartz hat anders getickt als die anderen, aber sehr leise”
Authors: Hanuschek Sven
Published: June 2012

Ein Spaziergang durch das literarische Werk des Erzählers, Übersetzers, Chemikers, Experimentators und Alltags‐Surrealisten von Sven Hanuschek.

In diesem Beitrag steht der Schriftsteller W. E. Richartz im Mittelpunkt. Über den Chemiker berichtet Heribert Offermanns im voranstehenden Kurzaufsatz (S. 158–159).