Self-Assembled PdII6 Molecular Spheroids and Their Proton Conduction Property.

A series of molecular spheroids (SP1-SP4) was synthesized using pseudolinear bisimidazole and bisbenzimidazole donors in combination with Pd(NO3)2 acceptor via coordination-driven self-assembly. They were characterized by NMR and mass spectrometry, and the solid-state structures of SP1 and SP3 were confirmed by X-ray diffraction. Crystal packing revealed the presence of molecular channels with water molecules in the channels as proton source. All the systems showed proton conductivity across a wide range of temperature and relative humidity. Furthermore, the mode of proton conduction in these molecular spheroids was explored by performing a control experiment using 2,4-dinitrophenol molecule, which indicates that the proton conductivity in the present case increases with increasing surface area of these molecular spheroids.

Reversible Multistimuli Switching of a Spiropyran-Functionalized Organic Cage in Solid and Solution.

A spiropyran-decorated covalent organic cage (PC2) has been designed, employing dynamic imine chemistry followed by imine bond reduction. The molecule is capable of altering its color upon exposure to external stimuli such as heat and light. Construction of a 3D organic cage introduces a new piece to the system by swapping the closed form with the open form in the solid state with diverse color change. Moreover, this material has high chemical stability and is capable of reversible stimuli-responsive color change without any degradation for an extended period.

Versatility of Two Diimidazole Building Blocks in Coordination-Driven Self-Assembly.

A series of discrete molecular architectures was synthesized via self-assembly of two "linear" diimidazole donors [L1 = 1,4-di(1H-imidazol-1-yl)benzene and L2 = 1,1'-(2,5-dimethyl-1,4-phenylene)bis(1H-imidazole)] independently with cis-[(tmeda)Pd(NO3)2] [tmeda = N,N,N',N'-tetramethylethane-1,2-diamine], cis-[(tmeda)Pt(NO3)2], a diplatinum(II) acceptor (bisPt), and Pd(NO3)2. The donors L1 and L2 are isostructural with four hydrogens in the benzene ring of L1, whereas in L2 two of such hydrogens are substituted by methyl groups. The assemblies were characterized by NMR spectroscopy and electrospray ionization mass spectrometry analyses along with single-crystal structure determination of three of them. While the self-assembly of L1 with cis-[(tmeda)Pd(NO3)2] solely formed a [3 + 3] self-assembled molecular triangle (1), L2 with the same acceptor predominantly resulted in the formation of a [4 + 4] molecular square (3). Such a dramatic change in the final outcome in the coordination-driven self-assembly by simple alkyl substitution of isostructural donors is remarkable. Interestingly, self-assembly of L1 and L2 with analogous Pt(II) acceptor cis-[(tmeda)Pt(NO3)2] yielded mixtures of [3 + 3] triangle and [4 + 4] square, where the molecular triangles (4 and 6) were the predominant products in both the cases. The same donors in combination with a 0° acceptor bisPt independently formed the expected [2 + 2] metallo-macrocycles (8 and 9). Surprisingly, the macrocycle (9) involving L2 is found to exist in more than one conformation at room temperature. Moreover, the diimidazole donors formed unprecedented Pd6L12 molecular spheres (10 and 11) when they were separately treated with Pd(NO3)2. The imidazole moieties in the ligands are found to appear in versatile orientations in the synthesized molecules due to their rotational flexibility to produce required bite angles for the particular architecture.

Treatment of hemorrhoids with individualized homeopathy: An open observational pilot study.

AIM: Controversies and disagreement exist on conventional treatment strategies of hemorrhoids due to relapse, inefficacy, and complications. We intend to evaluate the role of individualized homeopathic treatment in hemorrhoids. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this prospective, open, observational trial, hemorrhoids patients were treated using five standardized scales measuring complaints severity and anoscopic score. It was conducted at two homeopathic hospitals in India, during from mid-July 2014 to mid-July 2015. Patients were intervened as per individualized homeopathic principles and followed up every month up to 6 months. RESULTS: Total 73 were screened, 52 enrolled, 38 completed, 14 dropped out. Intention to treat population (n: = 52) was analyzed in the end. Statistically significant reductions of mean bleeding (month 3: -21.8, 95% confidence interval [CI]: -30.3, -13.3, P: < 0.00001, d = 0.787; month 6: -25.5, 95% CI -35.4, -15.6, P: < 0.00001, d = 0.775), pain (month 3: -21.3, 95% CI -28.6, -14.0, P: < 0.00001, d = 0.851; month 6: -27.6, 95% CI -35.6, -19.6, P: < 0.00001, d = 1.003), heaviness visual analog scales (VASs) (month 3: -8.1, 95% CI -13.9, -2.3, P: = 0.008, d = 0.609; month 6: -12.1, 95% CI -19.1, -5.1, P: = 0.001, d = 0.693), and anoscopic score (month 3: -0.4, 95% CI -0.6, -0.2, P: < 0.0001, d = 0.760; month 6: -0.5, 95% CI -0.7, -0.3, P: < 0.0001, d = 0.703) were achieved. Itching VASs reduced significantly only after 6 months (-8.1, 95% CI -14.6, -1.6, P: = 0.017, d = 0.586). No significant lowering of discharge VASs was achieved after 3 and 6 months. CONCLUSION: Under classical homeopathic treatment, hemorrhoids patients improved considerably in symptoms severity and anoscopic scores. However, being observational trial, our study cannot provide efficacy data. Controlled studies are required. Trial Reg. CTRI/2015/07/005958.

Patients' preference for integrating homeopathy (PPIH) within the standard therapy settings in West Bengal, India: The part 1 (PPIH-1) study.

There is lack of studies assessing the preference of Indian patients for integration of homeopathy into standard therapy settings. The objectives of this study were to examine the knowledge, attitudes, and practice of homeopathy among Indian patients already availing homeopathy treatment and its integration into mainstream healthcare. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among adult patients attending the out-patients of the four government homeopathic hospitals in West Bengal, India. A self-administered 24-items questionnaire in local vernacular Bengali was developed and administered to the patients. A total of 1352 patients' responses were included in the current analysis. 40% patients thought that homeopathic medicines can be used along with standard therapy. 32.5% thought that homeopathic medicines might cause side effects, while only 13.3% believed that those might interact with other medications. Patients' knowledge ranged between 25.1 and 76.5% regarding regulations of practicing and safety of homeopathic medicine in India and abroad; while positive attitude towards the same ranged between 25.4 and 88.5%. 88.6% of the patients had favorable attitude toward integrated services. 68.2% of the patients used homeopathic medicines in any acute or chronic illness for themselves and 76.6% for their children. Preference for integrated services was significantly associated with better knowledge (P = 0.002), positive attitudes toward safety and regulations (P < 0.0001), and integration (P < 0.0001), but not with the level of practice (P = 0.515). A favorable attitude toward integrating homeopathy into conventional healthcare settings was obtained among the patients attending the homeopathic hospitals in West Bengal, India.

Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice Related to Diabetes Mellitus Among Diabetics and Nondiabetics Visiting Homeopathic Hospitals in West Bengal, India.

High prevalence of undiagnosed cases of diabetes mellitus and poor knowledge, awareness, and practice has increased premature death, costly complications, and financial burden. A cross-sectional survey was conducted in November 2014 on 273 diabetics and 355 nondiabetics in 3 government homeopathic hospitals in West Bengal, India. A self-administered questionnaire assessing knowledge, awareness, and practice related to diabetes was used. A total of 17.5% to 29.3% of the participants were aware of the normal blood sugar level. Lack of insulin, frequent urination, hypertension, and poor wound healing were identified most frequently as the cause, symptom, association, and complications. A total of 35.5% to 46.5% said that diabetes was preventable; 14.1% to 31.9% knew that diabetes was controllable rather than curable. Consumption of planned diet, avoiding sugar, and testing blood sugar were the most frequently identified components of healthy lifestyle, diabetic diet, and diagnostic domain. Diabetics had higher knowledge and awareness than nondiabetics (P < .0001); still the latter need to be made aware and knowledgeable to curtail the ever-increasing burden of diabetes.

A Pd8 Tetrafacial Molecular Barrel as Carrier for Water Insoluble Fluorophore.

A new carbazole-based tetraimidazole ligand 1,3,6,8-tetra(1H-imidazol-1-yl)-9-methyl-9H-carbazole (L) has been synthesized. The unsymmetrical nature of L as well as the rotational freedom of imidazole donor moieties around C-N bond make it a special building unit, which upon treatment with cis-(tmeda)Pd(NO3)2 produced an unprecedented single linkage-isomeric Pd8 tetrafacial molecular nanobarrel (PSMBR-1) [tmeda = N,N,N',N'-tetramethylethane-1,2-diamine]. Unlike closed architectures, open barrel architecture of water-soluble PSMBR-1 makes it an ideal host for some water insoluble polyaromatic hydrocarbons in aqueous medium; one such inclusion complex coronene⊂PSMBR-1 was characterized by X-ray diffraction study. Moreover, the potential application of PSMBR-1 as carrier in aqueous medium for the transportation of water insoluble fluorophore (perylene) for live cell imaging is explored.

Direct C-N Coupling in an in Situ Ligand Transformation and the Self-Assembly of a Tetrametallic [Ni(II)4] Staircase.

A [Ni(II)4] staircase complex was serendipitously prepared from the reaction of the binucleating Schiff base proligand 2,6-bis[[(3-hydroxypropyl)imino]methyl]-4-methylphenol (H3L2) and 3,5-dimethylpyrazole (Me2pzH) with nickel(II) nitrate in a reaction at room temperature, initially aimed to yield a dinuclear complex. From a room temperature metal ion/ligand reaction, the proligand H3L2 in situ transformed to modified forms HL3(2-) and HL4(2-), allowing the [Ni4] formation. Variable-temperature magnetic behavior of a [Ni4] complex reveals antiferromagnetic interactions with stabilization of a diamagnetic ground state (ST = 0).

Vascular transformation of bilateral cervical lymph node sinuses: a rare entity masquerading as tumor recurrence.

Vascular transformation of sinuses (VTS) is a rare and reactive vasoproliferative disorder infrequently affecting the cervical lymph nodes. It is characterized by effacement of nodal architecture by variable expansion of the subcapsular, intermediate, and medullary sinuses. We report a very rare and unique case of VTS in bilateral cervical lymph nodes along with angiolipomatous hamartoma in a postoperative patient of squamous cell carcinoma of buccal mucosa clinically masquerading as tumor recurrence. To the best of our knowledge, only 15 cases of VTS have been reported in cervical lymph nodes till date and associated angiolipomatous or angiomyomatous hamartoma-like area was noted only in two cases of cervical lymph node VTS.

Chronic lung disease and detection of pulmonary artery dilatation in high resolution computerized tomography of chest in chronic arsenic exposure.

Lung affection in chronic arsenicosis developing from chronic ingestion of arsenic contaminated groundwater has been known but little is known on its effect on pulmonary arterial system. A cross sectional study was carried out at two geographically similar areas and demographically similar populations with or without evidence of chronic arsenic exposure in West Bengal, India. The willing participants in both the groups with chronic respiratory symptoms were evaluated with High Resolution Computerized Tomography (HRCT) of Chest. Evaluation of High Resolution Computerized Tomography of chest followed clinical assessment of lung disease in194 and 196 subjects from the arsenic exposed and unexposed people; the former had a higher prevalence of cough OR(Odds Ratio) 3.23 (95% CI(Confidence Interval): 1.72-6.07) and shortness of breath OR1.76 (95% CI: 0.84-3.71), respectively. The arsenic exposed individuals showed higher score for bronchiectasis [mean ± SD(Standard Deviation)] as 2.41 ± 2.32 vs. 1.22 ± 1.48 (P <0.001), pulmonary artery branch dilatation (PAD) as 2.48 ± 2.33 vs. 0.78 ± 1.56, (P <0.001) and pulmonary trunk dilatation as 0.26 ± 0.45 vs. nil. Age-adjusted prevalence odds ratio (POR) for Pulmonary Artery Dilatation Found in HRCT comparing those exposed to arsenic (Group 1) to unexposed participants (Group 2) was found to be 6.98 (CI: 2.26-16.48). There was a strong dose-response relationship between the PAD (Pulmonary Artery Dilatation) and cumulative arsenic exposure. Pulmonary trunk and branch dilatation in chronic arsenicosis is a frequent abnormality seen in HRCT Chest of arsenicosis patients. The significance of such finding needs further investigation.

Hering's Law Assessment Tool revisited: introducing a modified novel version--Patients' Response Assessment Tool after Homeopathic Treatment (PRATHoT) in chronic cases.

Hering's Law Assessment Tool emerged as a systematic outcome assessment tool following homeopathic intervention. The authors intend to modify it and develop a new tool-Patient Response Assessment Tool after Homeopathic Treatment (PRATHoT)-in chronic cases through Delphi technique for systematic categorization of probable outcomes following individualized homeopathic treatment in chronic cases. The PRATHoT was drafted after literature review and iterative Delphi rounds with multidisciplinary expert panel, setting Fleiss κ of 0.41 to 1.00 a priori as the desired level of multirater agreement. Following pilot testing, the tool was implemented on 37 patients suffering from knee osteoarthritis over 6 months. Logistic regression analysis confirmed that higher PRATHoT score was significantly associated with achieving pain visual analogue scale responses from the second follow-up visit onwards (B = 0.037-0.066; SE = 0.021-0.036; P = .003-.048). The tool appeared to have acceptable psychometric properties; hence, it may be considered as a promising tool, amendable for further development.

Medicine prescription practices of homeopathic undergraduate students in West Bengal, India.

OBJECTIVE: To our knowledge, prescription of homeopathic medicines by homeopathic undergraduate students has not been studied before though it may possess serious implications. We aimed to determine the practice and attitudes of prescription by homeopathic undergraduate students. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was carried out involving all the students from four government homeopathic schools of West Bengal, India. Ethical requirements were ensured and data were collected using self-administered questionnaires. Chi-square tests and logistic univariate regression analyses were performed to identify associations and differences. RESULTS: A total of 328 forms were completed. Of these, 264 (80.5%) homeopathic undergraduate students admitted of prescribing medicines independently and most (40.5%) said that they did this 2-3 times a year. The most common reasons for this were 'urgency of the problem' (35.2%), 'previous experience with same kind of illness' (31.8%), and 'the problem too trivial to go to a doctor' (25.8%). About 63.4% of the students thought that it was alright to independently diagnose an illness while 51.2% thought that it was alright for them to prescribe medicines to others. Common conditions encountered were fever, indigestion, and injury. Students who prescribed medicines were more likely to belong to Calcutta Homeopathic Medical College and Hospital (odds ratio = 5.8; 95% confidence interval 2.247-14.972). Prescription by students gradually increased with academic years of homeopathic schools. Many students thought it was alright for students to diagnose and treat illnesses. CONCLUSION: Prescription of medicines by homeopathic undergraduate students is quite rampant and corrective measures are warranted.

A dodecanuclear copper(II) cage self-assembled from six dicopper building units.

Reaction of the dinucleating phenol-based ligand, H3bpmp (2,6-bis-[(3-hydroxy-propylimino)-methyl]-4-methyl-phenol), with Cu(2+) ions in the presence of a hybrid base (NEt3 and NaN3) necessary for the in situ generation of required numbers of hydroxido ions, results in the formation of a novel NO3(-) capped and HO(-) supported {Cu12} coordination complex {Cu6(µ3-OH)3(µ3-Hbpmp)3(µ3-NO3)}2(NO3)2(OH)2·2H2O·2MeOH (1). When the components are combined in right proportions (metal : ligand : NEt3 : NaN3 = 2 : 1 : 3 : 2) in MeOH, twelve Cu(2+) ions assemble in a cuboctahedral geometry, containing six square and eight triangular faces around a considerable void space. Six of the eight [Cu3] triangular faces are bound by the six Hbpmp(2-) ligands with six free pendant propanol arms around the central hexagonal plane. X-ray structure determination indicates new geometrical features for the core formation and reveals the face-capping potential of the H3bpmp ligand for the growth of a cuboctahedral coordination cage with the support of anions like HO(-) and NO3(-). The experimentally observed (J/kB = -173 K) strong antiferromagnetic coupling within the Cu12 complex has been justified by the DFT calculations.

Self-assembly of a [Ni8] carbonate cube incorporating four µ4-carbonato linkers through fixation of atmospheric CO2 by ligated [Ni2] complexes.

The communication reports the synthesis, characterization, and magnetic behavior of a novel µ4-carbonato supported and imidazole capped ligated nickel cage [Ni8(µ-H2bpmp)4(µ4-CO3)4(ImH)8](NO3)4·2H2O (1) through self-assembly of ligand bound ferromagnetic Ni2 building blocks. Structural analysis indicates newer geometrical features for the coordination cage formation and dominant interdimer antiferromagnetic coupling resulting in a diamagnetic ground state.

Medicine prescription practices of homeopathic undergraduate students in West Bengal, India / 中西医结合学报

To our knowledge, prescription of homeopathic medicines by homeopathic undergraduate students has not been studied before though it may possess serious implications. We aimed to determine the practice and attitudes of prescription by homeopathic undergraduate students.

A survey exploring research perception of homeopathic undergraduate students in West Bengal, India

Background: Prioritizing undergraduate research is emphasized to develop critical analytical skills and thinking, independent writing, future clinical practice, enhanced employability, and improved research productivity. Despite far reaching consequences, research perception of homeopathic undergraduate students has barely been investigated to date. Poor participation of homeopathic undergraduates in research is reflected by a single MEDLINE indexed publication with adequate students’ contribution in the last decade. We aimed to assess their knowledge and attitude towards research and to identify barriers towards successful conduct of research. Methods: Institutional cross-sectional survey was carried out during August-September, 2013 in the four Government undergraduate homeopathic schools in West Bengal, India involving 902 participants. A semi-structured questionnaire was developed for the purpose depending on earlier studies on medical undergraduates. 364 completed responses were analyzed in the end. Results: Study sample mostly spanned 18-25 years of age group (94%), belonged to urban families (44.8%), with no gender differences (almost 1:1) and no physicians in family (73.1%). Maximum complete responses were obtained from 3rd year students (61.5%) and students of Calcutta Homeopathic Medical College and Hospital (51.2%). In spite of willingness to participate and keeping a positive attitude towards research, current involvement, training, knowledge and awareness remained quite unsatisfactory. Lack of infrastructure was identified as the chief barrier towards research. Conclusion: Undergraduates had a positive attitude towards homeopathic research, but need a realistic understanding of the research process. Opportunities for research skill development are underdeveloped.

Introdução: Estimular a pesquisa no nível de graduação é considerado um recurso importante para o desenvolvimento da capacidade de análise e pensamento críticos, redação independente, prática clínica futura, melhorar as possibilidades de inserção no mercado de trabalho e a produtividade em pesquisa. Apesar dessas consequências de amplo alcance, a percepção sobre pesquisa de estudantes de graduação em homeopatia tem sido raramente investigada. A escassa participação em pesquisas de estudantes de graduação em homeopatia é evidenciado pelo achado de um único trabalho indexado em MedLine com expressiva participação de estudantes nos últimos 10 anos. O nosso objetivo consistiu em avaliar o conhecimento e atitude em relação à pesquisa e identificar as barreiras que impedem o sucesso na realização de pesquisas. Métodos: Um estudo transversal foi realizado entre agosto e setembro de 2013 nas quatro faculdades públicas de homeopatia na Bengala Ocidental, Índia, com um total de 902 participantes. Um questionário semiestruturado foi desenvolvido especificamente para este estudo baseado nos resultados de estudos anteriores realizados com estudantes de medicina. Um total de 364 questionários completos foi incluído na análise. Resultados: A maioria dos participantes tinha entre 18 e 25 anos de idade (94%), residia em áreas urbanas (44.8%) e não incluía médicos na família (73,1%). A amostra apresentou homogeneidade em relação ao sexo (quase 1:1). O maior número de questionários completos correspondeu a estudantes do 3o ano (61,5%) e da Faculdade e Hospital Homeopático de Calcutá (51,2%) [...] Conclusão: Os estudantes manifestaram atitude positiva em relação à pesquisa em homeopatia, porém precisam adquirir uma compreensão mais realista do processo de pesquisa. As oportunidades para desenvolvimento de competências de pesquisa são muito escassas.

Understanding of biostatistics among the homeopathic fresh graduates and post-graduate trainees in West Bengal, India

Background: A basic understanding of biostatistics is essential, both for designing quality research and evaluating medical literature. We evaluated the understanding of biostatistics and interpretation of research results among homeopathic fresh graduates’ (House Staffs; HSs) and postgraduate trainees’ (PGTs) in West Bengal, India. Methods: A cross-sectional survey of homeopathic HSs and PGTs in the four government homeopathic schools in West Bengal, India, using a pre-tested, valid and reliable biostatistics multiple choice knowledge, confidence and attitude test questionnaire. Results: Internal consistency of the used questionnaires was acceptable (Cronbach’s á = 0.611 – 0.672). Response rate was only 55.6%. Research journal reading habit was seriously lacking. No one had ever taken any research courses or possessed any advanced degrees or diplomas. The overall mean% correct on statistical knowledge was very poor, 1.0% (95% CI 0.1 – 1.9%) vs. 10.0% (95% CI 8.6 – 11.6%) for HSs and PGTs (P < 0.0001). Comparatively, higher knowledge scores were found in respondents from Mahesh Bhattacharyya Homeopathic Medical College and Hospital (P = 0.003). No one could interpret an unadjusted odds ratio, Kaplan-Meier analysis results, and determine strength of evidence for risk factors. Percentages of correct answers for all other knowledge-based questions ranged between only 2.7 – 9.5%. Respondents’ self-assessed confidence in ability to understand biostatistics ranged between 41 – 60%. Positive attitude towards biostatistics was elicited in 16 – 63% respondents. Conclusions: The respondents seriously lacked knowledge in biostatistics needed to interpret research results. Training programs needs to undergo massive and immediate transformation to include more effective biostatistics training in curricula to encourage meaningful research.

A survey exploring research perception of homeopathic undergraduate students in West Bengal, India

Background: Prioritizing undergraduate research is emphasized to develop critical analytical skills and thinking, independent writing, future clinical practice, enhanced employability, and improved research productivity. Despite far reaching consequences, research perception of homeopathic undergraduate students has barely been investigated to date. Poor participation of homeopathic undergraduates in research is reflected by a single MEDLINE indexed publication with adequate students’ contribution in the last decade. We aimed to assess their knowledge and attitude towards research and to identify barriers towards successful conduct of research. Methods: Institutional cross-sectional survey was carried out during August-September, 2013 in the four Government undergraduate homeopathic schools in West Bengal, India involving 902 participants. A semi-structured questionnaire was developed for the purpose depending on earlier studies on medical undergraduates. 364 completed responses were analyzed in the end. Results: Study sample mostly spanned 18-25 years of age group (94%), belonged to urban families (44.8%), with no gender differences (almost 1:1) and no physicians in family (73.1%). Maximum complete responses were obtained from 3rd year students (61.5%) and students of Calcutta Homeopathic Medical College and Hospital (51.2%). In spite of willingness to participate and keeping a positive attitude towards research, current involvement, training, knowledge and awareness remained quite unsatisfactory. Lack of infrastructure was identified as the chief barrier towards research. Conclusion: Undergraduates had a positive attitude towards homeopathic research, but need a realistic understanding of the research process. Opportunities for research skill development are underdeveloped. (AU)

Introdução: Estimular a pesquisa no nível de graduação é considerado um recurso importante para o desenvolvimento da capacidade de análise e pensamento críticos, redação independente, prática clínica futura, melhorar as possibilidades de inserção no mercado de trabalho e a produtividade em pesquisa. Apesar dessas consequências de amplo alcance, a percepção sobre pesquisa de estudantes de graduação em homeopatia tem sido raramente investigada. A escassa participação em pesquisas de estudantes de graduação em homeopatia é evidenciado pelo achado de um único trabalho indexado em MedLine com expressiva participação de estudantes nos últimos 10 anos. O nosso objetivo consistiu em avaliar o conhecimento e atitude em relação à pesquisa e identificar as barreiras que impedem o sucesso na realização de pesquisas. Métodos: Um estudo transversal foi realizado entre agosto e setembro de 2013 nas quatro faculdades públicas de homeopatia na Bengala Ocidental, Índia, com um total de 902 participantes. Um questionário semiestruturado foi desenvolvido especificamente para este estudo baseado nos resultados de estudos anteriores realizados com estudantes de medicina. Um total de 364 questionários completos foi incluído na análise. Resultados: A maioria dos participantes tinha entre 18 e 25 anos de idade (94%), residia em áreas urbanas (44.8%) e não incluía médicos na família (73,1%). A amostra apresentou homogeneidade em relação ao sexo (quase 1:1). O maior número de questionários completos correspondeu a estudantes do 3o ano (61,5%) e da Faculdade e Hospital Homeopático de Calcutá (51,2%) [...] Conclusão: Os estudantes manifestaram atitude positiva em relação à pesquisa em homeopatia, porém precisam adquirir uma compreensão mais realista do processo de pesquisa. As oportunidades para desenvolvimento de competências de pesquisa são muito escassas. (AU)

Understanding of biostatistics among the homeopathic fresh graduates and post-graduate trainees in West Bengal, India

Background: A basic understanding of biostatistics is essential, both for designing quality research and evaluating medical literature. We evaluated the understanding of biostatistics and interpretation of research results among homeopathic fresh graduates’ (House Staffs; HSs) and postgraduate trainees’ (PGTs) in West Bengal, India. Methods: A cross-sectional survey of homeopathic HSs and PGTs in the four government homeopathic schools in West Bengal, India, using a pre-tested, valid and reliable biostatistics multiple choice knowledge, confidence and attitude test questionnaire. Results: Internal consistency of the used questionnaires was acceptable (Cronbach’s á = 0.611 – 0.672). Response rate was only 55.6%. Research journal reading habit was seriously lacking. No one had ever taken any research courses or possessed any advanced degrees or diplomas. The overall mean% correct on statistical knowledge was very poor, 1.0% (95% CI 0.1 – 1.9%) vs. 10.0% (95% CI 8.6 – 11.6%) for HSs and PGTs (P < 0.0001). Comparatively, higher knowledge scores were found in respondents from Mahesh Bhattacharyya Homeopathic Medical College and Hospital (P = 0.003). No one could interpret an unadjusted odds ratio, Kaplan-Meier analysis results, and determine strength of evidence for risk factors. Percentages of correct answers for all other knowledge-based questions ranged between only 2.7 – 9.5%. Respondents’ self-assessed confidence in ability to understand biostatistics ranged between 41 – 60%. Positive attitude towards biostatistics was elicited in 16 – 63% respondents. Conclusions: The respondents seriously lacked knowledge in biostatistics needed to interpret research results. Training programs needs to undergo massive and immediate transformation to include more effective biostatistics training in curricula to encourage meaningful research.(AU)

Self-assembled tetra- and pentanuclear nickel(II) aggregates from phenoxido-based ligand -bound {Ni2} fragments: carboxylate bridge controlled structures.

Three different carboxylato bridges (R = C2H5, CF3, and PhCH2 in RCO2(-)) have been used to obtain the supramolecular aggregates [Ni5(µ-H2bpmp)2(µ3-OH)2(µ1,3-O2CC2H5)6]·2H2O·4DMF (1·2H2O·4DMF), [Ni4(µ3-H2bpmp)2(µ3-OH)2(µ1,3-O2CCF3)2](CF3CO2)2·H2O (2·H2O), and [Ni4(µ3-H2bpmp)2(µ3-OH)2(µ1,3-O2CCH2Ph)2](PhCH2CO2)2·4H2O (3·4H2O) (H3bpmp =2,6-bis-[(3-hydroxy-propylimino)-methyl]-4-methyl-phenol) from the hydroxido-bridged dinuclear motif [Ni2(µ-H2bpmp)(OH)](2+). These complexes have been characterized by X-ray crystallography and magnetic measurements. A change from propanoate group to trifluoroacetate and phenylaceate groups provided different course of cluster assembly based on Ni2(µ-H2bpmp)2 fragments. The {Ni5(µ3-OH)2(µ1,3-O2CC2H5)6}(2+) core in 1 contains five Ni(II) ions in an hourglass (pentanuclear vertex-shared double cubane) arrangement. These compounds are new examples of [Ni5] and [Ni4] complexes where aggregation of the building motifs are guided by the nature of the carboxylate anions, which allows an effective tuning of the self-aggregate process within same ligand environment. The study of the magnetic properties reveals that 1 exhibits an S = 3 ground state. Nevertheless, the magnetization increases above the expected saturation value of 6 µB at higher fields, because of the suppression of antiferromagnetic exchange between the central and peripheral Ni(II) ions. Complexes 2 and 3 exhibit ferromagnetic exchange interactions that result in the S = 4 ground state. Examination of AC magnetic susceptibility showed that complex 2 in finely ground form behaves as spin glass with the spin-freezing temperature of ∼5.5 K. This behavior was attributed to the collapse of the structure upon the loss of interstitial solvent. Such property was not observed for complex 3, in which the bulkier carboxylate ligands provide for a more robust crystal packing and larger separation between the [Ni4O4] clusters.