Confined self-assembly of S, O co-doped GCN short nanotubes/EG composite towards HMIs electrochemical detection and removal

In this paper, we prepared composites by confining S, O co-doped C₃N₄ short nanotubes (SOT) into the slit holes of expanded graphite (EG). The prepared SOT/EG composites had hierarchical pores. Macroporous and mesoporous were conducive to the permeation of heavy metal ions (HMIs) solution, while microporous were favorable for HMIs capture. In addition, EG had excellent adsorption and conductive properties. By leveraging their synergistic effect, SOT/EG composites could be used for electrochemical detection and removal of HMIs simultaneously. The excellent HMIs electrochemical detection and removal performances were due to the unique 3D microstructure and the increase of active sites such as S and O. When SOT/EG composites were prepared into modified electrodes, the limit of detections (LODs) of Pb²⁺ and Hg²⁺ were 0.038 and 0.051 μg L^-1 for simultaneous detection and 0.045 and 0.057 μg L^-1 for individual detection. When SOT/EG composites were used as adsorbents, the equilibrium adsorption capacity of Pb²⁺ and Hg²⁺ solution of 10 mg L^-1 could reach 228.0 and 313.1 mg g^-1, and the adsorption efficiency was above 90%. Due to the low raw materials cost and simple preparation method, SOT/EG composite is a very promising bifunctional material for HMIs electrochemical detection and removal.

Novel Uracil-Functionalized Poly(ionic liquid) Hydrogel: Highly Stretchable and Sensitive as a Direct Wearable Ionic Skin for Human Motion Detection

Conductive hydrogel-based ionic skins have attracted immense attention due to their great application prospects in wearable electronic devices. However, simultaneously achieving a combination of a single hydrogel system and excellent comprehensive performance (i.e., mechanical durability, electrical sensitivity, broad-spectrum antibacterial activity, and biocompatibility) remains a challenge. Thus, a novel poly(ionic liquid) hydrogel consisting of poly(acrylamide-co-lauryl methacrylate-co-methyl-uracil-imidazolium chloride-co-2-acryloylamino-2-methyl-1-propane sulfonic acid) (AAm-LMA-MUI-AMPS) was prepared by a micellar copolymerization method. Herein, MUI serves as a supramolecular crosslinker and conductive and bacteriostatic components. Owing to the multiple supramolecular crosslinks and hydrophobic association in the network, the hydrogel exhibits excellent mechanical properties (624 kPa of breaking stress and 1243 kPa of compression stress), skin-like modulus (46.2 kPa), stretchability (1803%), and mechanical durability (200 cycles under 500% strain can be completely recovered). Moreover, with the coordinated combination of each monomer, the hydrogel exhibits the unique advantage of high conductivity (up to 59.34 mS/cm). Hence, the hydrogel was further assembled as an ionic skin sensor, which exhibited a gauge factor (GF) of 10.74 and 7.27 with and without LiCl over a broad strain range (1-1000%), respectively. Furthermore, the hydrogel sensor could monitor human movement in different strain ranges, including body movement and vocal cord vibration. In addition, the antibacterial activity and biocompatibility of the hydrogel sensor were investigated. These findings present a new strategy for the design of new-generation wearable devices with multiple functions.

Anchored growth of highly dispersed LDHs nanosheets on expanded graphite for fluoride adsorption properties and mechanism

In this study, a new composite with layered double hydroxides (LDHs) anchored grown on expanded graphite (EG) interlayers was prepared by vacuum-assisted intercalation and hydrothermal method. Both sides of EG were completely covered by highly dispersed LDHs nanosheets and formed a sandwich-like structure. The unique structure made expanded graphite/layered double hydroxides (EG/LDHs) composites which had excellent F^- adsorption performance. The adsorption performance of F^- on EG/LDHs was evaluated, and the results indicated that the adsorption process was consistent with the pseudo-second-order kinetic model and the Langmuir model. Pseudo-second-order kinetic model indicated that the adsorption sites were the main factor in the adsorption process. Moreover, the maximum adsorption capacity (Q_m) reached 63.21 mg·g^-1 at 30 min at room temperature, which was better than most of the same type of adsorbents. The highly dispersed of LDHs anchored growth on EG overcame the disadvantage of aggregation, which exposed more adsorption sites and improved the removal efficiency of F^-. In addition, the effects of pH, anion interference, different water quality, and regeneration tests on the EG/LDHs composites were also analyzed, showing that the composites have good stability.

Micellization and thermodynamics study of ester functionalized picoline-based ionic liquid surfactants in water

A novel series of picoline-based ionic liquid surfactants, N-alkyoxycarbonyl-3-picoline bromides [C _n Empy][Br] (n = 10, 12, 14), have been synthesized. The thermal stability, aggregation behavior and surface activity of the synthetic ionic liquid surfactants were investigated systematically though a series of methods, such as thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), tensiometry and conductivity. The thermodynamics of micellization of the ionic liquid surfactants solution were studied by using the conductivity method in the temperature range 278.15-318.15 K. The surface activity parameters and thermodynamics parameters were derived, respectively. The enthalpy-entropy compensation effect was further discussed by using relative thermodynamics parameters. It was found that the [C _n Empy][Br] have moderate surface activity, and their critical micelle concentration (CMC) decreased with the ester-functionalized chain length and exhibited a U-shape with temperature. The calculation results of the thermodynamic parameters showed that the micellization processes of [C _n Empy][Br] were spontaneous, endothermic at low temperature and exothermic at higher temperature.

N-doped three-dimensional needle-like CoS2 bridge connection Co3O4 core-shell structure as high-efficiency room temperature NO2 gas sensor

The N-doped three-dimensional (3D) needle bridge connection core-shell structure N-CoS₂@Co₃O₄ synthesized in this work was prepared by simple hydrothermal and high-temperature vulcanization methods. The optimized N-CoS₂@Co₃O₄^-2 composite response to NO₂ is 62.3-100 ppm, a response time of 1.3 s, the recovery time of 17.98 s, the detection limit of 5 ppb and stability of as long as 10 weeks at room temperature (RT). Its excellent NO₂ sensing performance is attributed to the unique porous and bridge connection core-shell structure of the N-CoS₂@Co₃O₄^-2 with high specific surface area, interconnected internal channels, abundant exposed S edge active sites, and high catalytic performance promoted by N-doping. This simple manufacturing method of high-performance sensing materials paves the way for the design of N-doped bridge connection core-shell structures.

Enhanced room-temperature NO2 sensing properties of biomorphic hierarchical mixed phase WO3

WO₃ with a mixed phase (m-WO₃ and h-WO₃) was synthesized by facile hydrothermal and annealing methods using biomass carbon (Hemp stems) as a sacrificial template. The biomorphic hierarchical structure effectively enhanced the dispersion of WO₃ microspheres, which increased the contact area for the target gas molecule. The control of the mixed phase compositions was achieved by space confinement of biomass carbon and heat treatments. The synergistic effect of the mixed phase increased the mobility of carriers and promoted the separation and transport of electrons and holes. Thus, it improved the adsorption-diffusion capacity of NO₂ molecules and enhanced the sensor performance at lower operating temperature effectively. The B-WO₃-04 (450 °C, 4 h) exhibited an ultra-high response (R_a/R_g = 71.07) towards 100 ppm NO₂ gas with excellent repeatability and appreciable long-term stability at room temperature. The significant improvement of B-WO₃-04 gas sensing performance was mainly due to its unique hierarchical structure and the optimal proportion of the mixed phase composition.

Enhanced NO2 sensing performance of S-doped biomorphic SnO2 with increased active sites and charge transfer at room temperature

S-Doped biomorphic SnO₂ with active S-terminations and S–Sn–O chemical bonds has significantly improved gas sensing performance to NO₂ at room temperature.

Interlaboratory Evaluation of Two Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay Kits for the Determination of Crustacean Protein in Processed Foods

The labeling of foods containing material derived from crustaceans such as shrimp and crab is to become mandatory in Japan because of increases in the number of allergy patients. To ensure proper labeling, 2 novel sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kits for the determination of crustacean protein in processed foods, the N kit (Nissui Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd, Ibaraki, Japan) and the M kit (Maruha Nichiro Holdings, Inc., Ibaraki, Japan), have been developed. Five types of model processed foods containing 10 and/or 11.9 g/g crustacean soluble protein were prepared for interlaboratory evaluation of the performance of these kits. The N kit displayed a relatively high level of reproducibility relative standard deviation (interlaboratory precision; 4.08.4 RSDR) and sufficient recovery (6586) for all the model processed foods. The M kit displayed sufficient reproducibility (17.620.5 RSDR) and a reasonably high level of recovery (82103). The repeatability relative standard deviation (RSDr) values regarding the detection of crustacean proteins in the 5 model foods were mostly <5.1 RSDr for the N kit and 9.9 RSDr for the M kit. In conclusion, the results of this interlaboratory evaluation suggest that both these ELISA kits would be very useful for detecting crustacean protein in processed foods.

Intercalation of Bi2O3/Bi2S3 nanoparticles into highly expanded MoS2 nanosheets for greatly enhanced gas sensing performance at room temperature

Synthesizing a gas sensor based on heterostructured nanomaterials (NMs) via a controllable morphology by a facile hydrothermal method is an area of frontier research. In the present work, we designed a facile strategy to synthesize a controllable morphology and composition for three component heterojunctions (MoS₂-Bi₂O₃-Bi₂S₃) NMs using different hydrothermal reaction times. The Bi₂S₃ easily form as an intermediate phase due to the strong interaction of the Bi₂O₃ with MoS₂ nanosheets (NSs). The as fabricated heterojunctions MB-5 NMs exhibited a sensitive response to NO_x gas (R_a/R_g = 10.7 at 50 ppm), with an ultra-fast response time of only 1 s (s) at room temperature (RT) in air. The detection limit was predicted to be as low as 50 ppb. This sensational behaviour of the sensor reveals the outstanding morphological structure and synergistic effect of the MoS₂ NSs with Bi₂O₃ nanoparticles (NPs), which was realized by the flow of electrons across MoS₂-Bi₂O₃-Bi₂S₃ interfaces through band energy alignment.

Micellization, surface activities and thermodynamics study of pyridinium-based ionic liquid surfactants in aqueous solution

The micellization and surface activity properties of long-chain pyridinium ionic liquids n-alkyl-3-methylpyridinium bromide ([C_nmpy][Br], n: the carbon numbers of hydrophobic tails, n = 12, 14, 16) in aqueous solution were systematically investigated through electronic conductivity measurement, surface tension, and ultraviolet-absorption spectra. The surface chemical parameters and thermodynamics parameters were obtained. The [C_nmpy][Br] ionic liquids exhibit higher surface activities than conventional surfactants with corresponding alkyl chain lengths. The effects of inorganic salts (LiBr, NaBr, MgBr₂), organic alcohols (C₂H₅OH, C₃H₇OH, C₄H₉OH, C₅H₁₁OH) and temperature on the critical micelle concentration (CMC) values of [C_nmpy][Br] aqueous solutions were also investigated. The CMC values remarkably decreased with the addition of inorganic salts. The CMC values increased slightly in the presence of ethanol, but decreased gradually as the chain length of the alcohol increased. The CMC values assumed a trend of decreasing and then increasing with the increase of temperature. The calculation results of thermodynamic parameters show that both adsorption and micellization processes of [C_nmpy][Br] are spontaneous; the enthalpy of [C₁₂mpy][Br] is negative at 293.15 K and becomes negative with temperature increasing. For [C₁₄mpy][Br] and [C₁₆mpy][Br] this transition occurs at 288.15 K and the micellization process is entropy-driven in the investigated temperature range.

This paper contains details on the micellization, surface activity properties, thermodynamics and effects of additives of [C_nmpy][Br].

Design and fabrication of polypyrrole/expanded graphite 3D interlayer nanohybrids towards high capacitive performance

Polypyrrole/expanded graphite (PPy/EG) nanohybrids, with a hierarchical structure of a three dimensional EG framework with a thick PPy coating layer, have been synthesized via a vacuum-assisted intercalation in situ oxidation polymerization method. In the synthesis, pyrrole monomers were intercalated into the irregular pores of EG with the assistance of a vacuum pump. Subsequently, the intercalated pyrrole monomers assembled on both sides of the EG nanosheets and formed PPy by an in situ polymerization method. As electrode materials, the typical PPy/EG10 sample with an EG content of 10% had a high specific capacitance of 454.3 F g⁻¹ and 442.7 F g⁻¹ (1.0 A g⁻¹), and specific capacitance retention rate of 75.9% and 73.3% (15.0 A g⁻¹) in 1 M H₂SO₄ and 1 M KCl electrolytes, respectively. The two-electrode symmetric supercapacitor showed a high energy density of 47.5 W h kg⁻¹ at a power density of 1 kW kg⁻¹, and could retain superb stability after 2000 cycles. The unique self-supporting structure feature and homogeneous PPy nanosphere coating combined the contributions of electrochemical double layer capacitance and pseudo-capacitance, which made the nanohybrids an excellent electrode material for high performance energy storage devices.

Polypyrrole/expanded graphite nanohybrids with a hierarchical structure were synthesized as electrode materials, and showed outstanding energy storage performance.

[Mechanism of cell autophagy for regulating skeletal muscle wasting of rats after severe burns]

Objective: To investigate the mechanism of cell autophagy for regulating skeletal muscle wasting of rats after severe burns. Methods: Seventy-two Sprague-Dawley rats were collected and divided into sham injury group, simple burn group, burn+ phosphate buffer solution (PBS) group, and burn+ 3-methyladenine (3-MA) group according to the random number table, with 18 rats in each group. Rats in simple burn group, burn+ PBS group, and burn+ 3-MA group were inflicted with 30% total body surface area full-thickness scald (hereinafter referred to as burns). Rats in sham injury group were sham injured. Immediately after burns and fluid resuscitation, rats in burn+ PBS group were intraperitoneally injected with 1 mL PBS, and rats in burn+ 3-MA group were intraperitoneally injected with 1 mL 3-MA (125 g/L). On post injury day 3 and 7, the weights of anterior tibial muscle of right hind limbs and body of rats were measured to calculate percentage of anterior tibial muscle of right hind limbs weight. Protein expressions of microtubule related protein 1 light chain 3A (LC3A) and Beclin-1 of anterior tibial muscle were observed by immunofluorescence method and detected by Western blotting, and ratio of microtubule related protein 1 LC3A-Ⅱ to LC3A-Ⅰ was calculated. Data were processed with analysis of variance of factorial design, one-way analysis of variance, t-test and Bonferroni correction. Results: On post injury day 3 and 7, percentages of anterior tibial muscle of right hind limbs weight of rats in simple burn group were (0.148±0.009)% and (0.134±0.018)%, respectively, which were significantly lower than those in sham injury group [(0.203±0.009)%, (0.181±0.015)%, t=10.585, 4.913, P<0.01]. Percentages of anterior tibial muscle of right hind limbs weight of rats in burn+ 3-MA group were (0.187±0.004)% and (0.192±0.009)%, respectively, which were obviously higher than those in burn+ PBS group [(0.162±0.005)%, (0.167±0.005)%, t=9.564, 5.948, P<0.01]. On post injury day 3 and 7, protein expressions of Beclin-1 and microtubule related protein 1 LC3A of anterior tibial muscle of rats in simple burn group were significantly higher than those in sham injury group, while protein expressions of Beclin-1 and microtubule related protein 1 LC3A of anterior tibial muscle of rats in burn+ 3-MA group were significantly lower than those in burn+ PBS group. Ratios of microtubule related protein 1 LC3A-Ⅱ to LC3A-Ⅰ of anterior tibial muscle of rats in simple burn group were significantly higher than those in sham injury group (t=3.461, 3.353, P<0.05), while ratios of microtubule related protein 1 LC3A-Ⅱ to LC3A-Ⅰ of anterior tibial muscle of rats in burn+ 3-MA group were significantly lower than those in burn+ PBS group (t=3.129, 3.977, P<0.05). Conclusions: Cell autophagy induced by severe burns is involved in the process of skeletal muscle wasting of rats, and inhibition of cell autophagy may contribute to the remission of skeletal muscle wasting of rats induced by burns.

Ultrafast NH3 Sensing Properties of WO3@CoWO4 Heterojunction Nanofibres at Room Temperature

Highly selective detection, quick response times (<5 s), and superior response (|Rn – Ra|/Ra = 1.17) to NH3 gas, particularly at room temperature (RT), are still enormous challenges in gas sensor applications. In this paper, a rational design and facile synthesis for a NH3 sensor have been proposed. Massage ball-like WO3@CoWO4 (Co-W) nanofibres (NFs) were prepared by a facile one-step synthesis utilising an electrospinning approach, followed by appropriate calcination. A Co-W NF sensor with a Co-to-W atomic ratio of 3 : 10 (Co-W-3), which consisted of nano-sized WO3 protrusions (10–15 nm) on submicrometre-sized single crystal CoWO4 particles (100–150 nm) exhibited excellent gas-sensing properties at RT due to the single crystal CoWO4–CoWO4 homojunction structure and distinct massage ball-like WO3–CoWO4 heterojunction. The approach developed in this work will be important for the low-cost and large-scale production of a Co-W-3 ultrafast sensing material with highly promising applications in gas sensors.

Biocarbon-templated synthesis of porous Ni–Co-O nanocomposites for room-temperature NH3 sensors

Mesoporous nickel–cobalt oxide (Ni–Co-O) nanocomposites were fabricated using a mesoporous biocarbon material (BCM), resulting from hemp stem, as a template.

2D quasi-ordered nitrogen-enriched porous carbon nanohybrids for high energy density supercapacitors

Two-dimensional (2D) quasi-ordered nitrogen-enriched porous carbon (QNPC) nanohybrids, with the characteristics of an ultrathin graphite nanosheet framework and thick quasi-ordered nitrogen-doped carbon cladding with a porous texture, have been synthesized via an in situ polymerization assembly method. In the synthesis, the expandable graphite (EG) is enlarged by an intermittent microwave method, and then aniline monomers are intercalated into the interlayers of the expanded EG with the assistance of a vacuum. Subsequently, the intercalated aniline monomers could assemble on the interlayer surface of the expanded EG, accompanied by the in situ polymerization from aniline monomers to polyaniline. Meanwhile, the expanded EG could be exfoliated to graphite nanosheets. By subsequent pyrolysis and activation processes, the QNPC nanohybrids could be prepared. As supercapacitor electrodes, a typical QNPC12-700 sample derived from the precursor containing an EG content of 12%, with a high level of nitrogen doping of 5.22 at%, offers a high specific capacitance of 305.7 F g(-1) (1 A g(-1)), excellent rate-capability and long-term stability. Notably, an extremely high energy density of 95.7 Wh kg(-1) at a power density of 449.7 W kg(-1) in an ionic liquid electrolyte can be achieved. The unique structural features and moderate heteroatom doping of the QNPC nanohybrids combines electrochemical double layer and faradaic capacitance contributions, which make these nanohybrids ideal candidates as electrode materials for high-performance energy storage devices.

A novel gas sensor based on porous α-Ni(OH)2 ultrathin nanosheet/reduced graphene oxide composites for room temperature detection of NOx

Porous α-Ni(OH)₂ TNS/rGO composites have a sensitivity of 64.4% and a response time of 10.0 s to 97.0 ppm NO_x.

One-step synthesis of hierarchical Ni–Fe–Al layered double hydroxide with excellent sensing properties for NOx at room temperature

Hierarchical flower-like Ni–Al-layered and Ni–Fe–Al-layered double hydroxide intercalation compounds were synthesized and showed good sensing for NO_x at room temperature.

Designed Synthesis of In₂O₃ Beads@TiO₂-In₂O₃ Composite Nanofibers for High Performance NO₂ Sensor at Room Temperature

Porous single crystal In2O3 beads@TiO2-In2O3 composite nanofibers (TINFs) have been prepared via a facile electrospinning method. The beads were formed because of the existence of hemimicelles in pecursor solution. The formation of hemimicelles was attributed to the synergy of tetrabutyl titanate (TBT) and polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP). Abundant In(3+) ions were drawn toward the ketonic oxygen of PVP resulting in In(3+) ions aggregation. Compared with pristine In2O3 nanofibers (INFs), the as-prepared TINFs exhibited excellent properties for sensing NO2 gas at room temperature (25 °C). The enhanced sensing property was due to much absorbed oxygen and Schottky junctions between the porous single crystal In2O3 beads and the Au electrode of the sensor. The strategy for combining the unique In2O3 beads@TiO2-In2O3 nanofibers structure which possessed superior conductivity and sufficient electrons with the addition of TiO2 offered an innovation to enhance the gas sensing performance.

[Treatment of 568 patients with frostbite in northeastern China with an analysis of rate of amputation]

OBJECTIVE

To study the key points of treatment and amputation in patients with frostbite, so as to increase the successful rate of the treatment.

METHODS

Five hundred and sixty-eight patients with frostbite admitted to our department from January 2005 to December 2014. (1) For the patients admitted to our department within one week after injury, the frostbite wounds were soaked in 42 °C herbal fluid (twice per day, 30 min for each time) and irradiated with infrared or red light (three times per day, 40 min for each time) from the day of admission to the 7th day after injury. Meanwhile, treatment for improvement of microcirculation, vasodilation, and anti-infection were also given. Then they received infrared or red light irradiation to the wound sites. For the patients admitted to our department longer than one week after frostbite, the frostbite wounds were irradiated with infrared or red light, and treated with antibiotics if inflammation was found around the wound. Among all the patients, 5 cases suffered from frozen stiff, and they were given fluid resuscitation as well as above-mentioned treatments after admission. (2) All patients were given wound treatment immediately after admission. The superficial partial-thickness wounds and deep partial-thickness wounds of 264 patients were given routine dressing change. The full-thickness wounds in 79 patients were treated with exposure therapy after routine dressing change first, and then granulation tissue of these wounds were grafted with autologous thigh split-thickness skin grafts. After debridement and exposure therapy, amputation was done in 225 patients 3 to 4 weeks after injury when the underlying bone was exposed. In 4 patients with exposure of calcaneus, the wounds were covered with reverse sural nerve nutrient vessels island flap. Mean healing time of superficial partial-thickness wound and deep partial-thickness wound, survival rate of skin graft in full-thickness wound, and survival rate of flap covering wound deep to bone at the heel were all recorded. The amputation rate of patients injured in December, January, February, and other months, that of patients admitted shorter than 1 day after frostbite, 1 to 3 days after frostbite, longer than 3 days and shorter than or equal to 5 days after frostbite, and longer than 5 days after frostbite, that of patients caused by drunkenness, mental disorders, improper protection, going astray, and trauma including traffic accident etc., and that of patients treated with rewarming under room temperature, rubbing with snow, wrapping with quilt, and soaking in warm water before admission were all recorded and analyzed. Parts of the data were processed with χ(2) test.

RESULTS

All patients were survived after treatment. Average wound healing time of superficial partial -thickness wound and deep partial-thickness wound was respectively 10 and 23 days. The survival rate of skin graft on full-thickness wound was about 95%. Survival rate of flap on wound deep to bone at the heel was 100%. Amputation rates of patients injured in December and January were respectively 47.46% (84/177), 42.56% (103/242), and both were significantly higher than those of patients injured in February and the other months [respectively 29.55% (26/88), 13.11% (8/61), with χ(2) values from 42.595 to 220.900, P values below 0.01]. Amputation rate of patients with admission time shorter than 1 day after frostbite was 32.06% (84/262), which was obviously lower than that of patients with admission time from 1 to 3 days after frostbite, longer than 3 days and less than or equal to 5 days after frostbite, or longer than 5 days after frostbite [respectively 40.48% (68/168), 49.02% (50/102), 52.78% (19/36), with χ(2) values from 107.284 to 165.350, P values below 0.01]. Amputation rates of patients with frostbite occurring after getting drunkenness, mental disorders, and trauma including traffic accident etc. were respectively 42.06% (106/252), 43.48% (60/138), and 53.12% (17/32), and they were all significantly higher than those of patients with frostbite caused by improper protection and going astray [respectively 27.45% (28/102), 22.73% (10/44), with χ(2) values from 187.260 to 209.738, P values below 0.01]. Amputation rates of patients undergoing treatment of rewarming under room temperature, rubbing with snow, wrapping with quilt before admission were respectively 44.29% (62/140), 48.28% (84/174), and 35.38% (46/130), and they were significantly higher than the amputation rate of patients who received the treatment of soaking in warm water [23.39% (29/124), with χ(2) values from 97.364 to 136.189, P values below 0.01].

CONCLUSIONS

Early diagnosis and treatment, properly rewarming at early stage, and correct wound treatment are the key points for reducing amputation rate of patients after frostbite. Attention should be paid to the occurrence of frostbite in December and January, and also to protection of high-risk groups (patients with mental disorders and drunker).

Role of the heterojunctions in In2O3-composite SnO2 nanorod sensors and their remarkable gas-sensing performance for NO(x) at room temperature

Establishing heterostructures, as a good strategy to improve gas sensing performance, has been studied extensively. In this research, In2O3-composite SnO2 nanorod (ICTOs) heterostructures have been prepared via electrospinning, followed by calcination. It is found that In2O3 can improve the carrier density and oxygen deficiency of SnO2. In particular, the 3ICTO (Sn : In atom ratio of 25 : 0.3) nanorods with special particle distributions show an excellent sensing response towards different concentrations of NOx at room temperature. The highest sensing response is up to 8.98 for 100 ppm NOx with a fast response time of 4.67 s, which is over 11 times higher than that of pristine SnO2 nanorods at room temperature and the lowest detection limit is down to 0.1 ppm. More significantly, it presents good stability after 30 days for NOx of low concentration (0.1 ppm and 0.5 ppm). In addition, the rational band structure model combined with the surface depletion model which describe the NOx gas sensing mechanism of 3ICTO are presented. The 3ICTO nanorods may be promising in the application of gas sensors.

Si doped highly crystalline mesoporous In2O3 nanowires: synthesis, characterization and ultra-high response to NOx at room temperature

The synthesized INW-2 has an ultrathin surface layer and high density defects. The special structure offers available active centers for gas/surface reactions. INW-2 sensor possesses the ultrahigh response and selectivity to NOx at room temperature.

Development of double-decker pulse radiolysis

Double-decker pulse radiolysis (DDPR), which utilizes double-decker electron beams, was investigated to develop a new pulse radiolysis with a high time resolution. The double-decker electron beams were generated by injecting two UV pulses into a photocathode radio-frequency gun. In the pulse radiolysis, one electron beam was used as a pump beam, and the other was converted to a probe pulse. Finally, as its first application, the DDPR was successfully used for observing solvated electrons in water, with a 10%-90% rise time of 8.6 ps.

Abstract P3-15-05: Muscle and Joint Symptoms in Breast Cancer Patients Receiving Taxane-Based Chemotherapy

Background: Docetaxel, paclitaxel, and (nab)-paclitaxel are taxanes used in treating breast cancer at various stages. While fairly well tolerated, they can cause distressing side effects. Both the prevalence and severity of muscle and joint symptoms (M&JS) in patients receiving taxane-based chemotherapies are poorly documented. We prospectively investigated the prevalence and severity of M&JS in women receiving taxane chemotherapy for breast cancer.

Methods: A total of 275 taxane-naive patients were enrolled in the study. This analysis presents data for 95 patients. For three consecutive treatmentcycles patients completed a baseline questionnaire as well as a diary, days 1 through 7 and on days 14 and 21 following treatment. Patient interviews were done by telephone days 2 to 3, and days 5 to 7 following treatment. They were then contacted at approximately three month intervals for one year. Data collection and data entry are ongoing; long term follow-up will conclude in August 2010.

Results: The average age of patients was 53 years. Disease status was classified as early for 50%, locally advanced for 35.34 %, and metastatic for 15.51% of patients. Overall 41.4% and 39.6% of patients reported muscle and joint pain, respectively, in their diaries on days 1 to 7. Muscle pain was most commonly reported in the legs, back, and arms and joint pain in the knees, ankles, and hips. The pain was most often described as aching, tiring, nagging, exhausting, and tender. The following scores are derived from a 10 cm visual analog scale. Of those who experienced pain in the seven days after treatment, the mean rating for pain at its worst was 5.15 and 5.02 for muscle and joint pain, respectively. Pain at its least had an average rating of 3.42 and 3.41 for muscle and joint pain, respectively. With respect to interference, patients who experienced pain had a mean score of 5.39, 4.86, 5.5, 4.12, 5.36, and 5.44 for interference with basic activities in daily life, mood, working or housework, relationships, sleeping and enjoyment of life, respectively. One, 3, 6, 9 and 12 months after taxane treatment ended, 27.2% (22/81), 31% (13/42), 45.5% (20/44), 37.2% (16/43), and 26.9% (7/26) reported muscle pain, respectively. Joint pain was reported by 26% (21/81), 38.1% (16/42), 43.2% (19/44), 48.8% (21/43) and 34.6% (9/26) of patients 1, 3, 6, 9 and 12 months following treatment, respectively. Data entry and analysis is ongoing and the final analysis will report on pain in relation to the taxane used, steroid tapering, role of anti-hormonal therapy, and effect of menopause on incidence of M&JS.

Discussion: Our preliminary data analysis indicates incidence rates of M&JS higher than previously reported during taxane treatment, and persistence of symptoms in a large proportion of patients up to a year following therapy completion. High pain scores and considerable interference with many aspects of life were reported. This study confirms the significant burden of M&JS during taxane chemotherapy. Conclusions: M&JS during taxane treatment is a common occurrence, and is significantly debilitating to the women who experience it. More research should be done regarding preventative measures and treatment options.

Citation Information: Cancer Res 2010;70(24 Suppl):Abstract nr P3-15-05.

Amidation of single-walled carbon nanotubes by a hydrothermal process for the electrooxidation of nitric oxide

Single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) have been amidated by hydrothermal treatment with different aliphatic amines. The amido groups modified on the surface of the SWCNTs were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The electrooxidation of nitric oxide (NO) at the modified electrodes of amidated SWCNTs was investigated. The modified electrodes of amidated SWCNTs exhibited different electrocatalytic activity for NO when different aliphatic amines were being used. The electrode amidated by ammonia has the highest activity, which is 1.8 times value of the SWCNT modified electrode. The electrocatalytic activity of the amidated SWCNT modified electrodes depends on the length of the alkyl groups. The results demonstrate that hydrothermal treatment is an efficient way to modify SWCNTs with amines, and the reaction rate of NO electrooxidation can be changed by the amidation of SWCNTs.

Teaching paediatric dentistry by multimedia: a three-year report

Clinical cases can now be simulated utilising multimedia and used to teach case management to dental students. The modules developed should provide intellectual stimulation, user-interaction and immediate feedback, in addition to being intuitively navigated and user-helpful. Five paediatric dental case modules (early childhood caries, anterior trauma, anterior coronal fragment, anterior crossbite and dentigerous cyst) were created, installed in a multimedia presentation tool, PathFinder (from Westmead Hospital Dental Clinical School, New South Wales, Australia), and used to teach three classes of fourth year dental students at The University of Melbourne. Questionnaires, focus groups and a review were conducted by an external educational expert. Students responded anonymously to general learning questions and case specific questions using a five-point Likert scale (strongly agree to strongly disagree). Student responses indicated they were very enthusiastic about learning via multimedia, although a few students disliked this educational approach. Focus groups and external review indicated that the modules were navigated readily and were suitably interactive.

Esophagogastrostomy reconstruction after limited proximal gastrectomy

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Recent advances in diagnostic techniques have led to the detection of an increasing number of early gastric cancers in the upper third of the stomach. The objective of this study was to determine the most appropriate surgical treatment for these cancers.

METHODOLOGY

The clinicopathologic characteristics of 35 patients with early gastric cancer in the upper third of the stomach who underwent three different types of gastrectomies were reviewed retrospectively from hospital records between January 1992 and August 1999.

RESULTS

Patients undergoing limited proximal gastrectomy with esophagogastrostomy reconstruction had shorter operation times and less blood loss than those for patients undergoing total gastrectomy or proximal gastrectomy with jejunal interposition. No lymph node metastasis was identified in any of these patients. Heartburn due to reflux esophagitis was seen in a few patients of each group, but they were successfully treated by antacids. The extreme reduction in food intake volume was more frequently experienced in patients with total gastrectomy than those with both proximal gastrectomies. When mortality due to other disease was excluded, all patients survived without recurrence.

CONCLUSIONS

A limited proximal gastrectomy with esophagogastrostomy reconstruction decreased surgical risk and realized preservation of maximal function.

[The effectiveness of ozonated water for hand washing before surgery]

Using an ozonated water-dispensing machine for sterilization of hands (Mediaqua MA-III; Core Medical Co., Ltd, Tokyo, Japan), we investigated the effectiveness of ozonated water as a disinfectant for hand washing before surgery. The effectiveness of this new hand-washing method, using 4 ppm of ozonated water, which is expected to have a short-term bactericidal effect, and 0.2% benzalkonium chloride/83% ethanol solution (Welpas), which is expected to have a long-term bactericidal effect, was compared with that of the conventional hand-washing method (Fürbringer's method using a scrubbing agent containing povidone-iodine). The results showed no significant differences in the numbers of live bacteria and exponential reduction rates in live bacteria. Thus, this new method for hand washing using ozonated water is an effective method for sterilization of the hands before surgery.

Effect of Antioxidants on Radical-initiated Peroxidation of Retinal Homogenate

Purpose: To compare the effect of antioxidants on radical-initiated peroxidation of retinal homogenate.Methods: Lipid peroxides in bovine retinal homogenate were induced by 5 mM FeNO(3) (Fe), 25 mM 2, 2'-azobis(2, 4'-dimethylvaleronitrile) (lipid-soluble, AMVN) or 50 mM 2, 2'-azobis (2-amidinoprpane) dihydrochloride (water-soluble, AAPH) and the preventive effects of antioxidants were measured. Phosphatidylcholine hydroperoxide (PC-OOH) was analyzed with high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) as the endpoint biomarker.Results and Conclusion: Troglitazone, an oral hypoglycemic agent, inhibited PC-OOH production by Fe and AMVN. Therefore, it may be effective for protecting against oxidative stress on the inner surface plasma membranes and subcellular organelle. Quercetin has radical scavenging effects on both sides of the membrane, because it prevents PC-OOH production by AMVN or AAPH. These results demonstrate the usefulness of an in vitro screening test that can accurately and rapidly determine the capacity of an antioxidant against lipid peroxidation or oxidative stress. (Jpn Ophthalmol Soc 104:466-70, 2000)

Novel design of nonpeptide AVP V(2) receptor agonists: structural requirements for an agonist having 1-(4-aminobenzoyl)-2,3,4, 5-tetrahydro-1H-1-benzazepine as a template

The discovery of a series of nonpeptide arginine vasopressin V(2) receptor agonists is described. After identifying the aniline derivative 8 as our lead compound from the metabolites of compound 7 that showed antidiuretic activity by po administration to Brattleboro rats, improvements in the in vitro potency involving evaluations of the structural requirements for agonist action and optimizing the structure of the benzoyl moiety have been intensively undertaken. These studies led to compounds 16g, 19a, and 23b,h,i that show potent agonist activity for the V(2) receptor.

Age, strain, and semi-chronic hydergine treatment effects on motor activity and neuronal nucleic acid-protein metabolism in male mice

This study was designed to examine the effects of Hydergine (DHET), co-dergocrine mesylate, treatment on motor activity and neuronal nucleoprotein metabolism in several motor areas of the aging rodent brain, specifically the caudate-putamen (CP), the substantia nigra (SN), and the cerebral cortex layer V (CX). Three age groups of two different strains of mice were used which represented two different aging rates: DBA/2 male mice (short lived) and C57BL/6 male mice (long lived). A representative sample of each age group was injected (IP) daily with a single dose of either DHET (1 mg/kg) or vehicle (0.9% saline) solution for one month. Total spontaneous motor activity was measured using a File apparatus to assess the functional ability of the selected brain areas. Histochemical parameters measured included the relative RNA and protein contents from a homogeneous population of neurons within each nuclei. The RNA and protein contents were assessed with a scanning microdensitometer using azure B and Coomassie staining protocols, respectively. The results of this study provide evidence that DHET does have significant effects on neuronal functioning in the motor compartments studied at the behavioral as well as the histochemical level for DBA/2 male mice. The C57BL/6 strain showed parallel, but less significant, changes in the histochemical parameters and no statistical differences in motor activity. In addition, DHET treatment produced no sign of neurotoxicity within any of the brain nuclei in either strain.

[Effect of antioxidants on radical-initiated peroxidation of retinal homogenate]

PURPOSE

To compare the effect of antioxidants on radical-initiated peroxidation of retinal homogenate.

METHODS

Lipid peroxides in bovine retinal homogenate were induced by 5 mM FeNO3 (Fe), 25 mM 2, 2'-azobis(2,4'-dimethylvaleronitrile) (lipid-soluble, AMVN) or 50 mM 2,2'-azobis (2-amidinoprpane) dihydrochloride (water-soluble, AAPH) and the preventive effects of antioxidants were measured. Phosphatidylcholine hydroperoxide (PC-OOH) was analyzed with high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) as the endpoint biomarker.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSION

Troglitazone, an oral hypoglycemic agent, inhibited PC-OOH production by Fe and AMVN. Therefore, it may be effective for protecting against oxidative stress on the inner surface plasma membranes and subcellular organelle. Quercetin has radical scavenging effects on both sides of the membrane, because it prevents PC-OOH production by AMVN or AAPH. These results demonstrate the usefulness of an in vitro screening test that can accurately and rapidly determine the capacity of an antioxidant against lipid peroxidation or oxidative stress.

Characterization of a novel nonpeptide vasopressin V(2)-agonist, OPC-51803, in cells transfected human vasopressin receptor subtypes

We discovered the first nonpeptide arginine-vasopressin (AVP) V(2)-receptor agonist, OPC-51803. Pharmacological properties of OPC-51803 were elucidated using HeLa cells expressing human AVP receptor subtypes (V(2), V(1a) and V(1b)) and compared with those of 1-desamino-8-D-arginine vasopressin (dDAVP), a peptide V(2)-receptor agonist. OPC-51803 and dDAVP displaced [(3)H]-AVP binding to human V(2)- and V(1a)-receptors with K(i) values of 91.9+/-10.8 nM (n = 6) and 3.12+/-0.38 nM (n = 6) for V(2)-receptors, and 819+/-39 nM (n = 6) and 41.5+/-9.9 nM (n = 6) for V(1a)-receptors, indicating that OPC-51803 was about nine times more selective for V(2)-receptors, similar to the selectivity of dDAVP. OPC-51803 scarcely displaced [(3)H]-AVP binding to human V(1b)-receptors even at 10(-4) M, while dDAVP showed potent affinity to human V(1b)-receptors with the K(i) value of 13.7+/-3.2 nM (n = 4). OPC-51803 concentration-dependently increased cyclic adenosine 3', 5'-monophosphate (cyclic AMP) production in HeLa cells expressing human V(2)-receptors with an EC(50) value of 189+/-14 nM (n = 6). The concentration-response curve for cyclic AMP production induced by OPC-51803 was shifted to the right in the presence of a V(2)-antagonist, OPC-31260. At 10(-5) M, OPC-51803 did not increase the intracellular Ca(2+) concentration ([Ca(2+)](i)) in HeLa cells expressing human V(1a)-receptors. On the other hand, dDAVP increased [Ca(2+)](i) in HeLa cells expressing human V(1a)- and V(1b)-receptors in a concentration-dependent fashion. From these results, OPC-51803 has been confirmed to be the first nonpeptide agonist for human AVP V(2)-receptors without agonistic activities for V(1a)- and V(1b)-receptors. OPC-51803 may be useful for the treatment of AVP-deficient pathophysiological states and as a tool for AVP researches.

Synthesis of oligonucleotides containing a new azobenzene fragment with efficient photoisomerizability

The azobenzene derivatives possessing substituents of ROCH2CH2O- and-CH2CH2OR' or -CONHCH2CH2OR' at p,p'-positions, where R and R' are 4,4'-dimethoxytrityl and 2-cyanoethyl-N,N'-diisopropylphophoramidite, have been synthesized for linking two oligonucelotide segments. It has been found that the azobenzene linkers efficiently undergo trans-cis isomerization by exposing to UV light. The conversion efficiency showed slight dependence on structure or conformation of oligonucleotides attached to the azobenzene chromophore. The cis-form of the azobenzene in oligonucleotides was sufficiently stable at low temperature under dark. The present findings would open the way for light switch of nucleic acid structures.

[The efficacy and limitation of hepatic arterial infusion chemotherapy for colorectal liver metastases]

We investigated the efficacy and limitation of hepatic arterial infusion (HAI) chemotherapy for colorectal liver metastases. In terms of prophylactic HAI following curative resection of liver, the 5-year disease-free survival of HAI group (12 g of 5-FU administered in 6 weeks) was 66.7%, whereas that of randomly selected control group was 20.0%. The difference was statistically significant (p = 0.045). Recurrent disease was confirmed in three cases of HAI group (one in liver) and in 8 patients of the control group (6 in liver). However, the overall survival was not significantly different between the groups. Thus, the short-term HAI of 5-FU is effective in decreasing the recurrence of disease. As for the treatment of unresectable liver metastases, some patients received HAI of 5-FU (1,000-1,500 mg/w) showed prolonged survival with partial remission of the disease. However, the 1-, 2-, and 3-year cumulative survival of HAI group (n = 27) was 69.3, 34.1 and 11.4%, respectively, against 61.3, 22.6 and 9.4%, respectively, in the transarterial embolization (TAE) group (n = 31). Therefore it is important to estimate the effect in the early phase of HAI, and aggressively continue the treatment in selected patients for whom it is suitable.

[Pharmacological study of weekly docetaxel in patients with metastatic breast cancer]

A pharmacological comparison of weekly administrations of docetaxel (TXT) and standard/conventional TXT was carried out among patients with metastatic breast cancer. Fifteen patients were enrolled in this study of weekly TXT (TXT: 40 mg/body/week x 3 with 1 week interruptions in 10 patients) and standard TXT (TXT: 60 mg/m2/3 weeks in 5 patients). The median dose intensity (DI) of weekly TXT (20.63 mg/m2/week) was similar to that of standard TXT, and the median relative dose intensity (RDI) of weekly TXT was 0.98. The median area under the plasma concentration-time curve (AUC) of weekly TXT (1.20 micrograms.h/ml) was smaller than that of standard TXT (1.87 micrograms.h/ml). Therefore, there were remarkable decreases in both median percent of decrease in neutrophil counts and grade 3, 4 neutropenia with weekly TXT. These pharmacological data show that weekly TXT is a well-tolerated and feasible schedule for the treatment of metastatic breast cancer.

[A case of locally advanced breast cancer successfully treated with intra-arterial infusion chemotherapy of high-dose epirubicin]

A case of locally advanced breast cancer was treated with intra-arterial infusion chemotherapy using high-dose epirubicin. The 1st and 2nd cycle consisted of 210 mg (day 1, 4, 7) and 150 mg (day 1, 4, 7), respectively. After completion of 2 cycles of the regimen, remarkable loco-regional control and improved QOL were obtained. Leucopenia (nadir; 1,000/mm3) was the dose limiting factor, but well-tolerated with supportive therapy. The patient underwent salvage surgery and maintenance intra-venous chemotherapy (epirubicin; 30 mg/3 weeks). At this writing, the patient is enjoying favorable QOL. These findings suggested that this modality was effective for cases with exctensive loco-regional involvement.

Radon-222 and gamma ray levels associated with the collection, processing, transmission, and utilization of natural gas

The natural gas industry in British Columbia was investigated for exposure to radioactive contaminants such as radon-222 and lead-210. Radon activity associated with the gathering system ranged from 7-921 Bq/m3. The pipelines to the processing facility contained sludge that had a mean lead-210 activity of 0.494 Bq/g (0.379 standard deviation [SD]) and a mean radium-226 activity of 0.417 (0.398 SD). Within the processing facility the highest levels of radon were associated with propane production streams, and activities as high as 4958 Bq/m3 were found. Equipment handling these streams was also found to have a buildup of scale with lead-210, radium-224, and radium-226 activity. The transmission of salable gas to the consumer indicated a decrease in radon activity that was slightly lower than the estimated radon activity based on the half-life of radon, the distance from the production facility, and the speed of gas transmission. The risk of radon exposure to the worker was deemed well below the guidelines and would be controlled more than adequately by means of the occupational standards for the natural gas components. Gamma ray exposure was also well below the occupational standards. Radon exposure to the consumer was virtually nonexistent in the Vancouver region from both natural gas and propane. Although this might not be the case for consumers of propane closer to the production facilities, its contribution is likely to be minimal.

[Intra-arterial chemotherapy to improve quality of life in cases of unresectable advanced or recurrent breast cancer]

We performed repetitive intra-arterial infusion chemotherapy (I.A.) with epirubicin in order to improve the quality of life (QOL) in 3 cases with locally advanced or recurrent breast cancer which were diagnosed as surgically unresectable and seemed uncontrollable by outpatient systemic chemotherapy. The patients were admitted to our hospital for chest wall invasion, lymph node metastasis, bleeding, pain, or edema in upper extremity. Therapeutic effects included 1 case of CR and 2 cases of PR in the primary site, and similar effects were obtained in metastasized lymph nodes. We could perform mastectomy in both of the 2 cases with locally advanced cancer after I.A., Although leukocytopenia, which was the dose limiting factor in this regimen, was observed in all 3 cases, it was Grade 2 or 3 and recovered by G-CSF. With regard to their QOL, symptoms which had driven them to inpatient treatment remarkably improved in all of the cases. Thus, after 2 series of I.A. they could receive maintenance systemic chemotherapy as outpatients. Our findings showed that the I.A. as a local control treatment in patients with unresectable advanced or recurrent breast cancer is useful for the improvement of their QOL.

[Long-term survival in a case of multiple liver metastasis from postoperative gastric cancer effectively treated by hepatic intraarterial infusion chemotherapy using MMC and pirarubicin]

We experienced a case of multiple liver metastasis from postoperative gastric cancer who showed long-term survival with hepatic arterial infusion chemotherapy (HAI) of MMC and pirarubicin. A catheter was inserted into the hepatic artery, and 4 mg of MMC and 20 mg of pirarubicin were administered through an implantable port catheter every two to four weeks. The total dose of MMC and pirarubicin by the time of this report was 164 mg and 820 mg, respectively. The follow-up CT scan 2 months after the beginning of HAI showed a decrement of the liver tumors. The decrease rate at 12 and 17 months was 50% and 70%, respectively, which was diagnosed as partial response (PR). The therapeutic effect at 49 months is still PR without any sign of tumor enlargement of extra hepatic lesion.

[Effects of intravenous infusion of 5-FU and intraperitoneal injection of low-dose CDDP on 3 cases with ascites owing to peritonitis carcinomatosa of postoperative gastric carcinoma and debility]

We examined the effects of intravenous infusion of 5-FU and intraperitoneal injection of low-dose CDDP on 3 cases with ascites owing to peritonitis carcinomatosa of postoperative gastric carcinoma and debility. Intravenous infusion of 5-FU (250-1,000 mg/body) and intraperitoneal injection of CDDP (20-25 mg/body) carried out for 2-5 days. As a result, QOL of 3 cases was fairly improved. The PS (Performance Status) of 2 cases improved from Grade 4 to 2, and another one improved from Grade 4 to 3. Adverse effects of Grade 1 according to the WHO criteria were observed in 1 case (leukocytopenia and diarrhea). This palliative chemotherapy method appeared to be safe and effective for ascites due to peritonitis carcinomatosa of postoperative gastric carcinoma and debility.

[A CR case of amylase-producing tumor treated by hyperthermochemotherapy]

A 64-year-old female who was diagnosed with an amylase-producing tumor of unknown origin was treated by hyperthermochemotherapy. The patient was admitted with a complaint of abdominal fullness due to ascites. Laboratory examination showed high levels of serum amylase and tumor markers, including CA15-3, CA 125 and CA 72-4. Laparotomy showed peritoneal dissemination with histological findings of adenocarcinoma of unknown origin. After laparotomy, she was given hyperthermia combined with chemotherapy using carboplatin (CBDCA), mitomycin C (MMC) and doxifluridine (5'-DFUR). Hyperthermia (13.56 MHz radiofrequency for 40-50 min) was performed a total of six times within one and a half months. The total doses of CBDCA and MMC were 450 mg and 24 mg, respectively, and 600 mg of 5'-DFUR was orally administered every day. By these combined treatments, ascites disappeared and serum levels of amylase and all tumor markers were decreased and normalized. MRI and echo examination also showed complete disappearance of peritoneal metastasis. Two and a half years after the treatment, the patient is alive without any evidence of recurrence, which suggests that this combined therapy is one of the useful modalities for peritoneal dissemination as well as an inoperable tumor itself.

Solitary median maxillary central incisor, short stature, choanal atresia/midnasal stenosis (SMMCI) syndrome

This article describes a series of 21 consecutive cases, each involving a solitary median maxillary central incisor; the patients were seen in the Department of Dentistry or the Victorian Clinical Genetics Unit, Murdoch Institute, at the Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, from 1966 to 1997. The spectrum of anomalies and associated features present in these cases--solitary median maxillary central incisor, choanal atresia, and holoprosencephaly--is described, and the literature related to the features, including genetic studies in these conditions, is reviewed. We relate our findings in these cases to current knowledge of developmental embryology. It is hoped that the findings, together with our interpretation of them, will help to clarify understanding of solitary median maxillary central incisor syndrome. This syndrome was previously considered a simple midline defect of the dental lamina, but it is now recognized as a possible predictor of holoprosencephalies of varying degrees in the proband, in members of the proband's family, and in the family's descendants.

Orally active, nonpeptide vasopressin V2 receptor antagonists: a novel series of 1-[4-(benzoylamino)benzoyl]-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-benzazepines and related compounds

This paper describes a novel series of nonpeptide vasopressin V2 receptor antagonists. It has been demonstrated that the 1-[4-(benzoylamino)benzoyl]-2,3,4,5-1H-benzazepines and 1-[4-(benzoylamino)benzoyl]-2,3,4,5-1H-1,5-benzodiazepines show a high affinity for V2 (and V1a) receptors. Among the 1-[4-(benzoylamino)benzoyl]-2,3,4,5-1H-benzazepine series, compounds with an alkylamino group on the benzazepine ring have been shown to have oral activity. A lipophilic group at the ortho position on the terminal benzoyl ring is important for both high V2 receptor affinity and oral activity. On the basis of these favorable properties, clinical testing of 31b has begun for use as an oral and iv aquaretic agent.