Reaction of azole heterocycles with tris(dimethylamino)borane, a new method for the construction of tripodal borate-centred ligands.

Reaction of 2-mercapto-1-methylimidazole (methimazole) with tris(dimethylamino)borane, B(NMe2)3, provides the tetrahedral dimethylamine adduct of tris(methimazolyl)borane, [(Me2HN)B(methimazolyl)3]. By contrast, imidazole, 2-methylimidazole, 2-chloroimidazole and benzimidazole provide the homoleptic tetra-azolyl systems H[B(azolyl)4], and the same product is obtained even when a substoichiometric quantity of the heterocyle is employed. The change in reaction outcome is correlated with the variation of basic pKa for the heterocycles.

Emotional adjustment of adolescents and young adults with cystic fibrosis.

Twenty-seven adolescents and young adults with cystic fibrosis were studied to evaluate the phychological impact of this chronic illness. At first glance, most patients appeared to function adequately on a daily basis. However, four sources of psychological stress, leading to emotional disturbance, were identified: altered physical appearance causing distorted body images and denial of sexuality, strained interpersonal relationships resulting in isolation and mental strain, conflicts in upbringing, and increased awareness of the future and of death.