Ring-Opening Polymerization of -Lactide Catalyzed by Potassium-Based Complexes: Mechanistic Studies.

Two non-toxic potassium compounds, and , with a commercial oximate ligand have been prepared and fully spectroscopically characterized. Their activity as catalysts for the ring-opening polymerization (ROP) process of LLA has been studied, showing that they are extremely active and able to polymerize the monomer in a few minutes. For derivative , the presence of a crown ether in the potassium coordination sphere affects the nuclearity of the compound and consequently its solubility, with both aspects having an influence in the polymerization process.

Multimodal laser ablation/desorption imaging analysis of Zn and MMP-11 in breast tissues.

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are a family of zinc-dependent endopeptidases. The main functions of these metalloproteinases are the degradation of the stromal connective tissue and basement membrane components. Recent data from model systems suggest that MMPs are involved in breast cancer (BC) initiation, invasion, and metastasis.

Preparation of IrO2-Ta2O5|Ti electrodes by immersion, painting and electrophoretic deposition for the electrochemical removal of hydrocarbons from water.

After intense years of great development, the electrochemical technologies have become very suitable alternatives in niche markets like industrial wastewater reclamation and soil remediation. A key role to achieve a high efficiency in such treatments is played by the characteristics of the coating of the electrodes employed. This paper compares three techniques, namely immersion, painting and electrophoresis, for the preparation of IrO2-Ta2O5ǀTi, so-called dimensionally stable anodes (DSA(®)).

Activity of the external urethral sphincter evoked by genital stimulation in male rats.

Aims: To determine whether the external urethral sphincter (EUS) fasciculi of male rats respond to the mechanical stimulation of genital structures and to characterize the pattern of the electromyographic (EMG) activity of the three regions of the EUS: the cranial (CrEUS), the medial (MeEUS) and the caudal (CaEUS).

Methods: Electromyographic signals were recorded from the CrEUS, MeEUS and CaEUS regions of the male rat's EUS, before, during and after the mechanical stimulation of the urogenital structures.

Results: The CrEUS, MeEUS and CaEUS regions responded when brushing and squeezing the foreskin and glans as well as to penile and prostatic urethral distension.

Coital Urinary Incontinence Induced by Impairment of the Dorsal Nerve of the Clitoris in Rats.

Purpose: We determined the effect of chronic bilateral neurectomy of the dorsal nerve of the clitoris on urinary parameters and sexual behavior of conscious female rats.

Materials And Methods: A total of 18 anesthetized virgin female Wistar rats were used in this study, including 11 that underwent bilateral neurectomy of the dorsal nerve of the clitoris and 7 that underwent sham surgery. Urinary parameters were determined in awake animals preoperatively, and 3 and 10 days postoperatively.