Home  About us  Contact
 

Active

Distribution by Scientific Domains
Medical Sciences30%
Chemistry25%
Life Sciences25%
Earth and Environmental Science4%
Humanities and Social Sciences4%
Polymers and Materials Science2%
Engineering2%
7 Other Domains8%
Distribution within Medical Sciences
Oncology & Radiotherapy6%
76 Other Subdomains88%

Kinds of Active

  • agent active
  • catalytically active
  • constitutively active
  • drug active
    		•
  • electrochemically active
  • enzymatically active
  • highly active
  • immunologically active
    		•
  • metabolically active
  • optically active
  • reproductively active
  • stereochemically active
    		•
  • transcriptionally active
  • very active

    • Terms modified by Active

  • active agent
  • active antiretroviral therapy
  • active area
  • active arthritis
  • active avoidance
  • active bacteria
  • active biomass
  • active bleeding
  • active carbon
  • active caspase
  • active catalyst
  • active catalytic species
  • active catalytic system
  • active cd
  • active cell
  • active center
  • active centre
  • active chain end
  • active channel
  • active choice
  • active citizenship
  • active comparator
  • active complex
  • active component
  • active compound
  • active condition
  • active conformation
  • active constituent
  • active continental margin
  • active control
  • active coping
  • active crohn's disease
  • active deformation
  • active derivative
  • active development
  • active device
  • active disease
  • active disperser
  • active dose
  • active drug
  • active ebv infection
  • active efflux
  • active element
  • active enantiomer
  • active engagement
  • active enzyme
  • active epilepsy
  • active episode
  • active epstein
  • active ester
  • active extract
  • active factor
  • active fault
    		•
  • active female
  • active field
  • active force
  • active form
  • active fraction
  • active galactic nucleus
  • active galaxy
  • active gene
  • active group
  • active groups
  • active growth
  • active hepatitis
  • active hydrogen
  • active ibd
  • active immunization
  • active individual
  • active infection
  • active inflammation
  • active inflammatory lesion
  • active ingredient
  • active inhibitor
  • active intermediate
  • active intervention
  • active investigation
  • active involvement
  • active labour market policy
  • active labour market programme
  • active layer
  • active learning
  • active learning experience
  • active lesion
  • active life
  • active lifestyle
  • active ligand
  • active lipid mediator
  • active listening
  • active lupus nephritis
  • active male
  • active man
  • active management
  • active market
  • active material
  • active mechanism
  • active medication
  • active member
  • active membrane
  • active metabolism
  • active metabolite
  • active methylene
  • active methylene compound
  • active methylene reagent
  • active microbial population
  • active mmp-2
    		•
  • active mode
  • active moiety
  • active molecule
  • active monomer
  • active movement
  • active muscle
  • active mutant
  • active n
  • active nanoparticle
  • active nest
  • active neuron
  • active nucleus
  • active ones
  • active only
  • active oxygen species
  • active part
  • active participant
  • active participation
  • active partnership
  • active patient
  • active people
  • active peptide
  • active period
  • active periodontal treatment
  • active pharmaceutical ingredient
  • active phase
  • active poly
  • active polymer
  • active power
  • active principle
  • active process
  • active products
  • active proliferation
  • active promoter
  • active property
  • active protein
  • active psa
  • active pulmonary tuberculosis
  • active rTM
  • active ra
  • active radiation
  • active range
  • active regimen
  • active region
  • active regions
  • active replication
  • active research
  • active response
  • active rhoa
  • active role
  • active secondary alcohol
  • active sensitization
  • active sensor
    		•
  • active set
  • active set strategy
  • active site
  • active site cleft
  • active site geometry
  • active site residue
  • active site serine
  • active site structure
  • active sle
  • active sleep
  • active smoker
  • active smoking
  • active source
  • active space
  • active space self-consistent field
  • active species
  • active stage
  • active star
  • active state
  • active strategy
  • active structure
  • active student
  • active subject
  • active substance
  • active support
  • active support training
  • active suppression
  • active surface area
  • active surveillance
  • active system
  • active systemic lupus erythematosus
  • active tectonics
  • active tension
  • active therapy
  • active tissue
  • active transport
  • active treatment
  • active treatment group
  • active treatment groups
  • active tuberculosis
  • active uc
  • active ulcerative colitis
  • active uptake
  • active use
  • active user
  • active viral replication
  • active vitamin d
  • active woman
  • active zone

    • Selected Abstracts

    Functional and geographical differentiation of candidate balanced polymorphisms in Arabidopsis thaliana

    MOLECULAR ECOLOGY, Issue 13 2009
    JENNIFER M. REININGA
    Abstract Molecular population genetic analysis of three chromosomal regions in Arabidopsis thaliana suggested that balancing selection might operate to maintain variation at three novel candidate adaptive trait genes, including SOLUBLE STARCH SYNTHASE I (SSI), PLASTID TRANSCRIPTIONALLY ACTIVE 7(PTAC7), and BELL-LIKE HOMEODOMAIN 10 (BLH10). If balanced polymorphisms are indeed maintained at these loci, then we would expect to observe functional variation underlying the previously detected signatures of selection. We observe multiple replacement polymorphisms within and in the 32 amino acids just upstream of the protein,protein interacting BELL domain at the BLH10 locus. While no clear protein sequence differences are found between allele types in SSI and PTAC7, these two genes show evidence for allele-specific variation in expression levels. Geographical patterns of allelic differentiation seem consistent with population stratification in this species and a significant longitudinal cline was observed at all three candidate loci. These data support a hypothesis of balancing selection at all three candidate loci and provide a basis for more detailed functional work by identifying possible functional differences that might be selectively maintained. [source]

    HIF-1, protein expression is associated with the environmental inflammatory reaction in Barrett's metaplasia

    DISEASES OF THE ESOPHAGUS, Issue 8 2009
    F. C. Ling
    SUMMARY The oxygen-regulated transcription factor subunit hypoxia inducible factor-1, (HIF-1,) is involved in angiogenesis, energy metabolism, cell survival, and inflammation. We examined the protein expression of HIF-1, within the progression of Barrett's sequence as well as the type and degree of the environmental inflammatory reaction. Squamous epithelium (SE), metaplastic, low- and high-grade dysplastic lesions, and tumor tissue of 57 resection specimens from patients with Barrett's adenocarcinoma were immunohistochemically analyzed. Active and chronic inflammatory reactions were classified according to the Updated Sydney System. HIF-1, protein expression increased significantly from SE to Barrett's metaplasia (BM) (P < 0.0001). From metaplasia through low- and high-grade dysplasia to cancer, no further increase could be detected. Active and chronic inflammation were also significantly different between SE and BM (P < 0.0001) but not during further progression in the sequence. HIF-1, protein expression did not correlate with histopathologic parameters or survival. HIF-1, protein expression pattern resembles the active and chronic environmental inflammatory reaction. All were significantly increased in metaplasia compared to SE without further change in tumor development. HIF-1, protein expression appears to be associated with inflammatory processes in the development of BM. [source]

    Modeling past and future alpine permafrost distribution in the Colorado Front Range

    EARTH SURFACE PROCESSES AND LANDFORMS, Issue 12 2005
    Jason R. Janke
    Abstract Rock glaciers, a feature associated with at least discontinuous permafrost, provide important topoclimatic information. Active and inactive rock glaciers can be used to model current permafrost distribution. Relict rock glacier locations provide paleoclimatic information to infer past conditions. Future warmer climates could cause permafrost zones to shrink and initiate slope instability hazards such as debris flows or rockslides, thus modeling change remains imperative. This research examines potential past and future permafrost distribution in the Colorado Front Range by calibrating an existing permafrost model using a standard adiabatic rate for mountains (0·5 °C per 100 m) for a 4 °C range of cooler and warmer temperatures. According to the model, permafrost currently covers about 12 per cent (326·1 km2) of the entire study area (2721·5 km2). In a 4 °C cooler climate 73·7 per cent (2004·4 km2) of the study area could be covered by permafrost, whereas in a 4°C warmer climate almost no permafrost would be found. Permafrost would be reduced severely by 93·9 per cent (a loss of 306·2 km2) in a 2·0 °C warmer climate; however, permafrost will likely respond slowly to change. Relict rock glacier distribution indicates that mean annual air temperature (MAAT) was once at least some 3·0 to 4·0 °C cooler during the Pleistocene, with permafrost extending some 600,700 m lower than today. The model is effective at identifying temperature sensitive areas for future monitoring; however, other feedback mechanisms such as precipitation are neglected. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source]

    Comparison of the Heavy Metal Biosorption Capacity of Active, Heat-Inactivated and NaOH-Treated Phanerochaete chrysosporium Biosorbents

    ENGINEERING IN LIFE SCIENCES (ELECTRONIC), Issue 1 2004
    E. Güri
    Abstract Three different kinds of Phanerochaete chrysosporium (NaOH-treated, heat-inactivated and active) biosorbent were used for the removal of Cd(II) and Hg(II) ions from aquatic systems. The biosorption of Cd(II) and Hg(II) ions on three different forms of Phanerochaete chrysosporium was studied in aqueous solutions in the concentration range of 50,700 mg/L. Maximum biosorption capacities of NaOH-treated, heat-inactivated and active Phanerochaete chrysosporium biomass were found to be 148.37,mg/g, 78.68,mg/g and 68.56,mg/g for Cd(II) as well as 224.67,mg/g, 122.37,mg/g and 88.26,mg/g for Hg(II), respectively. For Cd(II) and Hg(II) ions, the order of affinity of the biosorbents was arranged as NaOH-treated,> heat-inactivated,>,active. The order of the amount of metal ions adsorbed was established as Hg(II),>,Cd(II) on a weight basis, and as Cd(II),>,Hg(II) on a molar basis. Biosorption equilibriums were established in about 60,min. The effect of the pH was also investigated, and maximum rates of biosorption of metal ions on the three different forms of Phanerochaete chrysosporium were observed at pH,6.0. The reusability experiments and synthetic wastewater studies were carried out with the most effective form, i.e., the NaOH-treated Phanerochaete chrysosporium biomass. It was observed that the biosorbent could be regenerated using 10,mM HCl solution, with a recovery of up to 98%, and it could be reused in five biosorption-desorption cycles without any considerable loss in biosorption capacity. The alkali-treated Phanerochaete chrysosporium removed 73% of Cd(II) and 81% of Hg(II) ions from synthetic wastewater. [source]

    Preparation of Optically Active ,-Amino[3]ferrocenophanes , Building Blocks for Chelate Ligands in Asymmetric Catalysis

    EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF INORGANIC CHEMISTRY, Issue 23 2003
    Patrick Liptau
    Treatment of 1,1,-diacetylferrocene (4) with dimethylamine and TiCl4 yielded the unsaturated dimethylamino-substituted [3]ferrocenophane product 5. Its catalytic hydrogenation gave the corresponding saturated [3]ferrocenophane system 6 (trans/cis , 7:1). The rac -[3]ferrocenophane amine 6 was partially resolved (to ca. 80% ee) by means of L - or D - O,O, -dibenzoyltartrate salt formation. Treatment of 4 with the pure (R)- or (S)-methyl(1-phenylethyl)amine (8)/TiCl4 gave the corresponding optically active unsaturated [3]ferrocenophane amines (R)-(+)- 9 and (S)-(,)- 9, respectively. Their catalytic hydrogenation again proceeded trans -selectively, giving the corresponding saturated diastereomeric [3]ferrocenophane amines (1R,3R,5R)- 10a and (1S,3S,5R)- 10b [starting from (R)- 9], their enantiomers ent - 10a and ent - 10b were obtained from (S)- 9, but with a poor asymmetric induction (10a/10b < 2:1). Quaternization of 6 (CH3I) followed by amine exchange using (R)- or (S)-methyl(1-phenylethyl)amine (8), respectively, proceeded with overall retention. Subsequent chromatographic separation gave the pure diastereoisomers (1R,3R,5R)- 10a and (1S,3S,5R)- 10b [from (R)- 8, ent - 10a and ent - 10b from (S)- 8] in > 60% yield. Subsequently, the benzylic (1-phenylethyl) auxiliary was removed from the nitrogen atom by catalytic hydrogenolysis to yield the enantiomerically pure (> 98%) ([3]ferrocenophanyl)methylamines (1R,3R)- 11 and (1S,3S)- 11, respectively, which were converted into the corresponding dimethylamino-substituted [3]ferrocenophanes (1R,3R)- 6 and (1S,3S)- 6. Each enantiomer from the following enantiomeric pairs was isolated in its pure form and characterized by X-ray diffraction: (R)- 9/(S)- 9; (1R,3R,5R)- 10a/(1S,3S,5S)- 10a; (1R,3R,5S)- 10b/(1S,3S,5R)- 10b; (1R,3R)- 11/(1S,3S)- 11. (© Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2003) [source]

    Advances towards Highly Active and Stereoselective Simple and Cheap Proline-Based Organocatalysts,

    EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF ORGANIC CHEMISTRY, Issue 29 2010
    Francesco Giacalone
    Abstract Ten 4-acyloxy- L -prolines were screened as catalysts at loadings of 2,0.1 mol-% for the direct asymmetric aldol reaction in water by using variable amounts of water. Among them, a new catalyst, the L -proline carrying a trans -4-(2,2-diphenylacetoxy) group, and a catalyst previously synthesized by us, the L -proline carrying a trans -4-(4-phenylbutanoyloxy) group, were found to be excellent catalysts for the aldol reaction between cyclohexanone or cyclopentanone and substituted benzaldehydes when employed in only 1 and 0.5 mol-%,respectively, at room temperature without additives. For such catalysts, high turnover numbers were obtained, which are among the highest values obtained for enamine organocatalysis. Finally, these catalysts can be synthesized by direct O -acylation from inexpensive molecules and successfully used in scaled-up reactions. [source]

    Asymmetric Cyclopropanation of Optically Active (1-Diethoxyphosphoryl)vinyl p -Tolyl Sulfoxide with Sulfur Ylides: A Rationale for Diastereoselectivity

    EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF ORGANIC CHEMISTRY, Issue 4 2005
    Wanda H. Midura
    Abstract The title sulfoxide (S)-(+)- 1a was found to react with sulfur ylides affording the corresponding cyclopropanes in high yields. With fully deuterated dimethyl(oxo)sulfonium methylide, (CD3)2S(O)CD2, the cyclopropanation reaction occurred in a highly diastereoselective manner producing the cyclopropane 4a - d2 as a major diastereomer in which the newly formed quaternary ,-carbon atom is chiral due to isotopic substitution (CH2 vs. CD2). The diastereomer 4b - d2, having the opposite configuration at the ,-carbon atom, was obtained starting form the 2,2-dideuterio substituted vinyl sulfoxide, (S)-(+)- 1a - d2, and the nondeuterated ylide. The diastereomeric ratio in both reactions was found to be ca. 10:1. The reaction of (S)-(+)- 1a with diphenylsulfonium isopropylide yielded the cyclopropane (+)- 7 as a single diastereomer. X-ray structural studies of the crystalline 1-phosphorylvinyl sulfoxide 9 as well as density functional calculations (B3LYP/6-31G*) on (1-phosphoryl)vinyl sulfoxides revealed the origin of the experimentally observed diastereoselectivities and allowed us to propose a transition state model for the cyclopropanation reaction of chiral 1-phosphorylvinyl sulfoxides. (© Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2005) [source]

    A decline of linkage?

    EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF POLITICAL RESEARCH, Issue 6 2003
    Intra-party participation in Norway
    The decline in party membership in Western Europe is generally taken as an indicator of party transformation. This article looks beyond membership figures and asks whether membership decline should be interpreted to mean that the activities and motivation of the remaining members are changing. Hypotheses on changes in party activism and motivation for party membership are tested with data from the 1991 and 2000 Norwegian party member surveys. Rather than uncovering evidence of change, most analyses point to a remarkable level of stability. Active and passive members seem to have disappeared at about the same rate. The general diagnosis of party decline is neither improved nor aggravated, but the analysis casts doubt on propositions about the transformation of the grassroots organisation. The Internet is used by party office-holders and the young, but the grassroots rarely use the new technology for political purposes. The character of the representative and participatory linkages provided by parties has, however, changed as a consequence of a shrinking party membership. [source]

    Security Concentration and Active Fund Management: Do Focused Funds Offer Superior Performance?

    FINANCIAL REVIEW, Issue 1 2008
    Travis Sapp
    G11; G20 Abstract We examine gross fund returns based on the number of securities held and find no evidence that focused funds outperform diversified funds. After deducting expenses, focused funds significantly underperform. Controlling for various fund characteristics, fund performance is positively related to the fund's number of holdings both before and after expenses. We find evidence linking focused fund underperformance to agency and liquidity problems. Finally, the attrition rate of focused funds is higher than that of diversified funds. These results do not support the view that managers holding focused portfolios have superior stock-picking skills or that focused funds provide value to investors. [source]

    Active versus passive teaching styles: An empirical study of student learning outcomes

    HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT QUARTERLY, Issue 4 2009
    Norbert Michel
    This study compares the impact of an active teaching approach and a traditional (or passive) teaching style on student cognitive outcomes. Across two sections of an introductory business course, one class was taught in an active or "nontraditional" manner, with a variety of active learning exercises. The second class was taught in a passive or "traditional" manner, emphasizing daily lectures. Although the active learning approach does not appear to have improved overall mastery of the subject, we did find evidence that active learning can lead to improved cognitive outcomes in class-specific materials. The discussion emphasizes the role of delivery style on learning outcomes. [source]

    Active and passive behaviors of soft tissues: Pelvic floor muscles

    INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL FOR NUMERICAL METHODS IN BIOMEDICAL ENGINEERING, Issue 6 2010
    M. P. M. Pato
    Abstract A new active-contraction visco-elastic numerical model of the pelvic floor (skeletal) muscle is presented. Our model includes all elements that represent the muscle constitutive behavior, contraction and relaxation. In contrast with the previous models, the activation function can be null. The complete equations are shown and exactly linearized. Small verification and validation tests are performed and the pelvis is modeled using the data from the intra-abdominal pressure tests. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source]

    Highly Active and Selective Semihydrogenation of Alkynes with the Palladium Nanoparticles-Tetrabutylammonium Borohydride Catalyst System

    ADVANCED SYNTHESIS & CATALYSIS (PREVIOUSLY: JOURNAL FUER PRAKTISCHE CHEMIE), Issue 18 2009
    Junichi Hori
    Abstract Palladium nanoparticles are prepared from palladium(II) acetate and 2 equivalents of potassium tert -butoxide in the presence of 4-octyne. The palladium nanoparticles-tetrabutylammonium borohydride system shows excellent catalytic activity and selectivity in the semihydrogenation of alkynes to the [(Z)-]alkenes. The hydrogenation of 4-octyne is conducted with the catalyst system at a substrate-to-palladium molar ratio of 10,000,200,000 under 8,atm of hydrogen to give (Z)-4-octene in>99% yield. Isomerization and over-reduction of the Z -alkene are very slow even after consumption of the alkyne. [source]

    Organocatalysis in Natural Product Synthesis: A Simple One-Pot Approach to Optically Active ,-Diols

    ADVANCED SYNTHESIS & CATALYSIS (PREVIOUSLY: JOURNAL FUER PRAKTISCHE CHEMIE), Issue 18 2009
    Nikolaj Røjkjær Andersen
    Abstract Optically active ,-diols have been prepared using an organocatalytic one-pot approach from ,,,-unsaturated aldehydes using (E) -benzaldehyde oxime as nucleophile in an oxa-Michael reaction with subsequent in situ reduction or Grignard addition. With this protocol at hand, two biologically active compounds, an insect sex pheromone and a glycerol kinase substrate have been synthesized. [source]

    Continuous Hydrogen Generation from Formic Acid: Highly Active and Stable Ruthenium Catalysts

    ADVANCED SYNTHESIS & CATALYSIS (PREVIOUSLY: JOURNAL FUER PRAKTISCHE CHEMIE), Issue 14-15 2009
    Albert Boddien
    Abstract The ruthenium-catalyzed decomposition of formic acid was investigated with respect to continuous hydrogen generation and long-term stability of the catalytic systems. A highly active and stable system is presented, which was studied in batch and continuous modes for up to two months. The optimized catalyst system containing N,N -dimethyl- n -hexylamine with an in situ generated catalyst from (benzene)ruthenium dichloride dimer [RuCl2(benzene)]2 and 6 equivalents of 1,2-bis(diphenylphosphino)ethane (dppe) reached at room temperature a total turnover number (TON) of approximatly 260,000 with average turnover frequency (TOF) of about 900,h,1. Only hydrogen and carbon dioxide were detected in the produced gas mixture which makes this system applicable for direct use in fuel cells. [source]

    Highly Active, Well-Defined (Cyclopentadiene)(N-heterocyclic carbene)palladium Chloride Complexes for Room-Temperature Suzuki,Miyaura and Buchwald,Hartwig Cross-Coupling Reactions of Aryl Chlorides and Deboronation Homocoupling of Arylboronic Acids

    ADVANCED SYNTHESIS & CATALYSIS (PREVIOUSLY: JOURNAL FUER PRAKTISCHE CHEMIE), Issue 10 2009
    Zhong Jin
    Abstract A new class of well-defined N-heterocyclic carbene (NHC)-(cyclopentadiene)palladium chloride complexes such as CpPd(NHC)Cl wasw synthesized from the readily available starting NHC-palladium(II) chloride dimers. These air-stable, coordinatively saturated NHC-Pd complexes bearing the cyclopentadiene (Cp) unit exhibit high catalytic activity in the room temperature Suzuki,Miyaura and Buchwald,Hartwig cross-coupling reactions involving unactive aryl chlorides as the substrates. In addition, they are found to be extremely efficient catalysts in the deboronation homocoupling of arylboronic acids at room temperature. [source]

    Highly Active and Recyclable Heterogeneous Iridium Pincer Catalysts for Transfer Dehydrogenation of Alkanes

    ADVANCED SYNTHESIS & CATALYSIS (PREVIOUSLY: JOURNAL FUER PRAKTISCHE CHEMIE), Issue 1-2 2009
    Zheng Huang
    Abstract Pincer-ligated iridium complexes have proven to be highly effective catalysts for the dehydrogenation and transfer-dehydrogenation of alkanes. Immobilization onto a solid support offers significant potential advantages in the application of such catalysts particularly with respect to catalyst separation and recycling. We describe three approaches toward such immobilization: (i) covalent attachment to a Merrifield resin, (ii) covalent bonding to silica via a pendant alkoxysilane group, and (iii) adsorption on ,-alumina (,-Al2O3), through basic functional groups on the para- position of the pincer ligand. The simplest of these approaches, adsorption on ,-Al2O3, is also found to be the most effective, yielding catalysts that are robust, recyclable, and comparable to or even more active than the corresponding species in solution. Spectroscopic evidence (NMR, IR) and studies of catalytic activity support the hypothesis that binding occurs at the para- substituent and that this has only a relatively subtle and indirect influence on catalytic behavior. [source]

    New Simple Hydrophobic Proline Derivatives as Highly Active and Stereoselective Catalysts for the Direct Asymmetric Aldol Reaction in Aqueous Medium

    ADVANCED SYNTHESIS & CATALYSIS (PREVIOUSLY: JOURNAL FUER PRAKTISCHE CHEMIE), Issue 17 2008
    Francesco Giacalone
    Abstract New 4-substituted acyloxyproline derivatives with different hydrophobic properties of the acyl group were easily synthesized and used as catalysts in the direct asymmetric aldol reaction between cyclic ketones (cyclohexanone and cyclopentanone) and several substituted benzaldehydes. Reactions were carried out using water, this being the best reaction medium examined. Screening of these catalysts showed that compounds bearing the most hydrophobic acyl chains [4-phenylbutanoate and 4-(pyren-1-yl)butanoate] provided better results. The latter catalysts were successfully used in only 2 mol% at room temperature without additives to give aldol products in excellent stereoselectivities. These results demonstrate that derivatization of the proline moiety with the proper simple hydrophobic substituent in the 4-position can furnish highly active and stereoselective catalysts without the need of additional chiral backbones in the molecule. Finally, an explanation of the observed stereoselectivities in the presence of water is provided. [source]

    When Home Care Ends,Changes in the Physical Health of Informal Caregivers Caring for Dementia Patients: A Longitudinal Study

    JOURNAL OF AMERICAN GERIATRICS SOCIETY, Issue 5 2002
    Elmar Gräsel MD
    OBJECTIVES: To verify the change in health variables and parameters of health service utilization in a group of active caregivers for older persons with dementia in comparison with former caregivers who had ceased to provide home care for at least 6 months (death of the patient or institutionalized care). DESIGN: A prospective longitudinal study with 1-year follow-up. Active and former caregiver groups originated from a sample of active caregivers at baseline. SETTING: Participants were recruited mainly via advertisements placed in two magazines with large, nationwide circulation. The questionnaires were sent on request. PARTICIPANTS: Seven hundred twenty primary caregivers of dementia patients living in the community. All patients had a medical diagnosis of dementia and had a score of 20 or greater on the mental-mnestic disturbances factor of the Sandoz Clinical Assessment,Geriatric scale. Their care needs covered at least one of four activities of daily living (personal hygiene, eating, toilet use/excretion, mobility). After 12 months, 681 caregivers were reinterviewed. MEASUREMENTS: The physical complaints were assessed with the 24-item Giessen Symptom List (subscales: aching limbs, stomach complaints, heart complaints, physical exhaustion). Other key variables were the number of illnesses, number of somatic and psychotropic medications, and number of physician visits. RESULTS: Although the somatic symptoms of the active caregivers (n = 427) remained stable at a high level, they decreased significantly (24%) in the group of former caregivers (n = 121). Simultaneously, the number of visits former caregivers made to physicians almost doubled. The reason why home care was terminated (death or institutionalization) did not influence health variables or health service utilization. CONCLUSION: The physical health of former caregivers improves in the long term once they cease to provide home care. The fact that former caregivers go to the doctor much more frequently is to be interpreted as an indication that they take the time to attend to their own physical and medical needs. [source]

    The Comparison Between Active and Passive Types of Social Support: The Emotional Responses,

    JOURNAL OF APPLIED BIOBEHAVIORAL RESEARCH, Issue 2 2009
    Ai Ni Teoh
    Social support was manipulated in previous experimental studies in different ways, including active support and passive support. The present study compared the effects among active support, passive support, and alone conditions on emotional changes by randomly assigning 61 participants to either one of the support conditions. Consistent with the hypothesis, passive support produced a lower level of positive affect and attentive than active support and alone, reduced level of active than alone, as well as a decrease in determined and pleasantness appraisal than active support after a stressful task. Implications of the findings were discussed in terms of the definition of social support and the manipulation of social support in laboratory settings. [source]

    Active caspase-3 is required for osteoclast differentiation

    JOURNAL OF CELLULAR PHYSIOLOGY, Issue 3 2006
    K.H. Szymczyk
    Based on our earlier observation that caspase-3 is present in osteoclasts that are not undergoing apoptosis, we investigated the role of this protein in the differentiation of primary osteoclasts and RAW264.7 cells (Szymczyk KH, et al., 2005, Caspase-3 activity is necessary for RANKL-induced osteoclast differentiation. The Proceedings of the 8th ICCBMT). We noted that osteoclast numbers are decreased in long bones of procaspase-3 knockout mice and that receptor activator of NF-,B ligand (RANKL) does not promote differentiation of isolated preosteoclasts. In addition, after treatment with inhibitors of caspase-3 activity, neither the wild-type primary nor the RAW264.7 cells express TRAP or became multinucleated. We found that immediately following RANKL treatment, procaspase-3 is cleaved and the activated protein is localized to lipid regions of the plasma membrane and the cytosol. We developed RAW264.7 procaspase-3 knockdown clonal cell lines using RNAi technology. Again, treatment with RANKL fails to induce TRAP activity or multinucleation. Finally, we evaluated NF-,B in procaspase-3 silenced cells. We found that RANKL treatment prevented activation and nuclear translocation of NF-,B. Together these findings provide direct support for the hypothesis that caspase-3 activity is required for osteoclast differentiation. J. Cell. Physiol. 209: 836,844, 2006. © 2006 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source]

    The clinical and cultural factors in classifying low back pain patients within Greece: a qualitative exploration of Greek health professionals

    JOURNAL OF EVALUATION IN CLINICAL PRACTICE, Issue 3 2007
    Evdokia V. Billis MSc
    Abstract Rationale, aims and objectives, Identifying homogenous subgroups of low back pain (LBP) patients is considered a priority in musculoskeletal rehabilitation and is believed to enhance clinical outcomes. In order to achieve this, the specific features of each subgroup need to be identified. The aim of this study was to develop a list of clinical and cultural features that are included in the assessment of LBP patients in Greece, among health professionals. This ,list' will be, utilized in a clinical study for developing LBP subgroups. Methods, Three focus groups were conducted, each one comprising health professionals with homogenous characteristics and all coordinated by a single moderator. There were: 11 physiotherapists (PTs) with clinical experience in LBP patients, seven PTs specialized in LBP management, and five doctors with a particular spinal interest. The focus of discussions was to develop a list of clinical and cultural features that were important in the examination of LBP. Content analysis was performed by two researchers. Results, Clinicians and postgraduates developed five categories within the History (Present Symptoms, History of Symptoms, Function, Psychosocial, Medical History) and six categories within the Physical Examination (Observation, Neurological Examination, Active and Passive Movements, Muscle Features and Palpation). The doctors identified four categories in History (Symptomatology, Function, Psychosocial, Medical History) and an additional in Physical Examination (Special Tests). All groups identified three cultural categories; Attitudes of Health Professionals, Patients' Attitudes and Health System influences. Conclusion, An extensive Greek ,list' of clinical and cultural features was developed from the groups' analysis. Although similarities existed in most categories, there were several differences across the three focus groups which will be discussed. [source]

    A Lipoprotein-derived Antimicrobial Factor from Hen-egg Yolk is Active Against Streptococcus Species

    JOURNAL OF FOOD SCIENCE, Issue 8 2002
    D. Brady
    ABSTRACT: Oral administration of hen-egg yolk provides protection against specific pathogens. We examined the antibacterial activity of fractionated egg yolk against 2 pathogenic Streptococcus strains, using an in vitro assay. A water-soluble protein fraction (WSPF) of egg yolk consistently inhibited the growth of S. mutans by 25%. The WSPF treated with pancreatin demonstrated > 80% inhibition of bacterial growth. Growth of S. sanguis was completely inhibited. Gel filtration and ion exchange chromatography established that anti-Streptococcal activity resided with lipoproteins. Antibacterial activity was released by crude lipase or a combination of lipase and protease treatment of egg lipoproteins. Thus, hen-egg yolk lipoproteins are important molecules for lipid-mediated antimicrobial activity. [source]

    Cyclosporin A prevents calpain activation despite increased intracellular calcium concentrations, as well as translocation of apoptosis-inducing factor, cytochrome c and caspase-3 activation in neurons exposed to transient hypoglycemia

    JOURNAL OF NEUROCHEMISTRY, Issue 6 2003
    Michel Ferrand-Drake
    Abstract Blockade of mitochondrial permeability transition protects against hypoglycemic brain damage. To study the mechanisms downstream from mitochondria that may cause neuronal death, we investigated the effects of cyclosporin A on subcellular localization of apoptosis-inducing factor and cytochrome c, activation of the cysteine proteases calpain and caspase-3, as well as its effect on brain extracellular calcium concentrations. Redistribution of cytochrome c occurred at 30 min of iso-electricity, whereas translocation of apoptosis-inducing factor to nuclei occurred at 30 min of recovery following 30 min of iso-electricity. Active caspase-3 and calpain-induced fodrin breakdown products were barely detectable in the dentate gyrus and CA1 region of the hippocampus of rat brain exposed to 30 or 60 min of insulin-induced hypoglycemia. However, 30 min or 3 h after recovery of blood glucose levels, fodrin breakdown products and active caspase-3 markedly increased, concomitant with a twofold increase in caspase-3-like enzymatic activity. When rats were treated with neuroprotective doses of cyclosporin A, but not with FK 506, the redistribution of apoptosis-inducing factor and cytochrome c was reduced and fodrin breakdown products and active caspase-3 immuno-reactivity was diminished whereas the extracellular calcium concentration was unaffected. We conclude that hypoglycemia leads to mitochondrial permeability transition which, upon recovery of energy metabolism, mediates the activation of caspase-3 and calpains, promoting cell death. [source]

    Reducing the Incidence of Denture Stomatitis: Are Denture Cleansers Sufficient?

    JOURNAL OF PROSTHODONTICS, Issue 4 2010
    Anto Jose MSc
    Abstract Purpose:,Candida albicans is the predominant oral yeast associated with denture stomatitis. With an increasing population of denture wearers, the incidence of denture stomatitis is increasing. Effective management of these patients will alleviate the morbidity associated with this disease. The aim of this study was to examine the capacity of four denture cleansers to efficiently decontaminate and sterilize surfaces covered by C. albicans biofilms. Materials and Methods: Sixteen C. albicans strains isolated from denture stomatitis patients and strain ATCC 90028 were grown as mature confluent biofilms on a 96-well format and immersed in Dentural, MedicalÔ Interporous®, Steradent Active Plus, and Boots Smile denture cleansers according to the manufacturers' instructions or overnight. The metabolic activity and biomass of the biofilms were then quantified, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) used to examine treated biofilms. Results: Dentural was the most effective denture cleanser, reducing the biomass by greater than 90% after 20 minutes. Steradent Active plus was significantly more effective following 10-minute immersion than overnight (p < 0.001). All cleansers reduced the metabolic activity by greater than 80% following overnight immersion; however, Boots Smile exhibited significantly reduced metabolic activity following only a 15-minute immersion (p < 0.001). SEM revealed residual C. albicans material following Dentural treatment. Conclusions: This study showed that denture cleansers exhibit effective anti- C. albicans biofilm activity, both in terms of removal and disinfection; however, residual biofilm retention that could lead to regrowth and denture colonization was observed. Therefore, alternative mechanical disruptive methods are required to enhance biofilm removal. [source]

    Using the chronic care model to tackle depression among older adults who have long-term physical conditions

    JOURNAL OF PSYCHIATRIC & MENTAL HEALTH NURSING, Issue 3 2007
    P. MCEVOY phd bsc
    Effective psychological and pharmacological treatments are available, but for depressed older adults with long-term physical conditions, the outcome of routine care is generally poor. This paper introduces the chronic care model, a systemic approach to quality improvement and service redesign, which was developed by Ed Wagner and colleagues. The model highlights six key areas that need to be addressed, if depression is to be tackled more effectively in this neglected patient group: delivery system design, patient,provider relationships, decision support, clinical information systems, community resources and healthcare organization. Three influential programmes, the Improving Mood Promoting Access to Collaborative Treatment programme, the Prevention of Suicide in Primary Care Elderly Collaborative Trial, and the Program to Encourage Active, and Rewarding Lives for Seniors, have shown that when the model is adopted, significant improvements in outcomes can be achieved. The paper concludes with a case study, which illustrates the difference that adopting the chronic care model can make. Radical changes in working practices may be required, to implement the model in practice. However, Greg Simon, a leading researcher in the field of depression care, has suggested that there is already sufficient evidence to justify a shift in emphasis from research towards dissemination and implementation. [source]

    Identity Agents: Parents as Active and Reflective Participants in Their Children's Identity Formation

    JOURNAL OF RESEARCH ON ADOLESCENCE, Issue 3 2008
    Elli P. Schachter
    The paper introduces the concept of identity agents. This concept refers to those individuals who actively interact with children and youth with the intention of participating in their identity formation, and who reflectively mediate larger social influences on identity formation. This contrasts with the focus of mainstream research in the identity field that tends to portray adolescents as the sole reflective agents involved in mature identity development. The paper presents a theoretical analysis presenting the importance of the concept for the formulation of a comprehensive contextual theory of identity formation. The particulars of this concept are illustrated through the presentation of a qualitative report of religious parents actively encouraging their children's processes of identification, co-participating in their children's identity's formation, and reflectively deliberating their parental roles and goals in regards to this process. [source]

    Changes of gastric histology in patients with erosive oesophagitis receiving long-term lansoprazole maintenance therapy

    ALIMENTARY PHARMACOLOGY & THERAPEUTICS, Issue 1 2010
    M. M. Haber
    Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2010; 32: 83,96 Summary Background, Changes in gastric histology associated with long-term maintenance therapy with lansoprazole for erosive oesophagitis have not been well described. Aim, To evaluate the effect on gastric histology of long-term dose-titrated lansoprazole administered as maintenance therapy for up to 82 months in patients with erosive oesophagitis. Methods, Sequential gastric biopsy specimens were obtained for evaluation of histological changes and Helicobacter pylori infection status. Results, Active and chronic inflammation improved from baseline to final visit in a majority of patients receiving long-term therapy with lansoprazole, irrespective of baseline H. pylori infection status. Reductions in active inflammation in the gastric body and antrum were seen in 53% (17/32) and 67% (20/30) of H. pylori -positive patients, respectively, and in 88% (7/8) and 86% (12/14) of H. pylori -negative patients, respectively. Reductions in chronic inflammation in the gastric body and antrum were seen in 38% (12/32) and 47% (15/32) of H. pylori -positive patients, respectively, and in 58% (70/121) and 57% (68/120) of H. pylori -negative patients, respectively. No clinically meaningful increases in hyperplasia, dysplasia, neoplasia, intestinal metaplasia or atrophy were observed during the follow-up period. Conclusions, Lansoprazole administered as maintenance therapy for up to 6 years in patients with erosive oesophagitis demonstrated gastric mucosal safety and was well tolerated. [source]

    Community-based treatment for chronic hepatitis C in drug users: high rates of compliance with therapy despite ongoing drug use

    ALIMENTARY PHARMACOLOGY & THERAPEUTICS, Issue 1 2009
    M. WILKINSON
    Summary Background, Chronic hepatitis C infection is common in drug users. Treatment of injectors is possible under controlled conditions, but many have not yet been included in treatment programmes as there are concerns about their ability to comply with therapy. It is not known which factors influence compliance. Aim, To examine the hypothesis that active drug users would comply with anti-viral therapy if treatment was delivered in a convenient manner. Methods, We established a community-based treatment programme and offered anti-viral therapy to all drug users who wanted it. Few pre-treatment requirements were imposed and, by design, compliance with therapy was reviewed after 50 patients had completed treatment. Results, Of the 441 patients who were known to be HCV RNA positive and attended the specialist addiction services during the period of this study, eighty three patients considered therapy. Twenty patients did not undergo treatment: 14 declined and 6 had medical conditions that precluded it. In 60 episodes (58 patients) where treatment had been completed, compliance was greater than 80% and homelessness, active illicit drug use and pre-treatment antidepressant therapy were not associated with noncompliance. In 25 of 49 treatment episodes that were assessed 6 months after treatment cessation, a sustained virological response (51%) was seen. Conclusion, Active drug users using illicit drugs can be successfully treated in community-based clinics. [source]

    Alsterpaullone, a novel cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor, induces apoptosis by activation of caspase-9 due to perturbation in mitochondrial membrane potential,

    MOLECULAR CARCINOGENESIS, Issue 4 2003
    Tyler Lahusen
    Abstract The majority of human neoplasms have aberrations in the retinoblastoma pathway due to hyperactivation of cyclin-dependent kinases (CDK). Based on this observation, novel small molecules, such as flavopiridol and UCN-01, are being developed and are currently being tested in the clinic. Efforts to develop CDK modulators led us to the discovery of a novel class of CDK inhibitors, the paullones [Cancer Res 1999;59:2566]. Initial studies demonstrated that paullones inhibit CDKs in vitro, thereby blocking cell-cycle progression. However, the exact mechanism for the antiproliferative effects of paullones was never explored. In this report, we demonstrate for the first time that the most potent paullone, alsterpaullone (Alp), induced apoptosis and promoted loss in clonogenicity in the Jurkat cell line. Alp caused early activation of both caspase-8 and -9, leading to cleavage of caspase-3 and poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP). Moreover, apoptosis by Alp was not associated with loss in anti-apoptotic proteins such as XIAP or BCL-XL. Pre-incubation with cell-permeable inhibitors z-Asp(OMe)-Glu(OMe)-Val-Asp(Ome)-fluoromethylketone and benzyloxycarbonyl-Val-Ala-Asp (OMe)-fluoromethylketone (ZVAD) blocked Alp-induced apoptosis. Moreover, the general caspase inhibitor ZVAD blocked the cleavage and activation of most caspases tested except caspase-9. Studies of mitochondrial membrane potential also demonstrated that Alp is able to disrupt mitochondrial potential in the presence of ZVAD, suggesting that the activation of caspase-9 by Alp follows mitochondrial perturbation. Pre-incubation of Jurkat cells with ZVAD did not prevent the depletion of cyclin D3, loss of CDK, or cell-cycle arrest by Alp. In summary, these experiments suggest that Alp activates caspase-9 via mitochondrial perturbation. Active caspase-9 cleaves and activates caspase-8 and caspase-3, leading to apoptosis. In the presence of the general caspase inhibitor ZVAD, the cell-cycle effects of Alp are unaltered while apoptosis is blocked, suggesting that the CDK effects of Alp are not sufficient for Alp-induced apoptosis. Additional studies with paullones are warranted to further characterize their preclinical effects and to explore their potential use in the clinical setting. Published 2003 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source]

    Active and passive maternal smoking during pregnancy and the risks of low birthweight and preterm birth: the Generation R Study

    PAEDIATRIC & PERINATAL EPIDEMIOLOGY, Issue 2 2008
    Vincent W. V. Jaddoe
    Summary The objective of this study was to examine the associations between active and passive smoking in different periods of pregnancy and changing smoking habits during pregnancy, with low birthweight and preterm birth. The study was embedded in the Generation R Study, a population-based prospective cohort study from early fetal life onwards in Rotterdam, The Netherlands. Active and passive smoking were assessed by questionnaires in early, mid- and late pregnancy. Analyses were based on 7098 pregnant women and their children. Active smoking until pregnancy was ascertained and was not associated with low birthweight and preterm birth. Continued active smoking after pregnancy was also recorded and was associated with low birthweight (adjusted odds ratio 1.75 [95% CI 1.20, 2.56]) and preterm birth (adjusted odds ratio 1.36 [95% CI 1.04, 1.78]). The strongest associations were found for active maternal smoking in late pregnancy. Passive maternal smoking in late pregnancy was associated with continuously measured birthweight (P for trend <0.001). For all active smoking categories in early pregnancy, quitting smoking was associated with a higher birthweight than continuing to smoke. Tendencies towards smaller non-significant beneficial effects on mean birthweight were found for reducing the number of cigarettes without quitting completely. This study shows that active and passive smoking in late pregnancy are associated with adverse effects on weight and gestational age at birth. Smoking in early pregnancy only, seems not to affect fetal growth adversely. Health care strategies for pregnant women should be aimed at quitting smoking completely rather than reducing the number of cigarettes. [source]