Interpretation of the quantum formalism and Bell's theorem

It is argued that quantum mechanics must be interpreted according to the Copenhagen interpretation. Consequently the formalism must be used in a purely operational way. The relation between realism, hidden variables, and the Bell inequalities is discussed. The proof of impossibility of local hidden-variables theories (Bell's theorem) is criticized on the basis that the quantum mechanical states violating local realism are not physically realizable states.Einstein had great difficulty in reaching a sharp formulation of Bohr's meaning. What hope then for the rest of us.—John S. Bell (Ref. 1, p. 189).     

On the Fredholm theory of Wiener-Hopf equations and the coupling method

The Fredholm properties of the Wiener-Hopf operator onL _p(⁺,^m) are investigated using the coupling method for solving operator equations. The theory applies to equations whose kernel is an element ofL ₁(,^mxm). As usual the determinant of the symbol is assumed to have no zeros on the real line. The method of analysis is independent of the realization theory for symbols that are analytic in a strip containing the real axis although in some sense closely related to it. The connection between the two methods is briefly analysed in the paper.     

Antioxidant and Protective Effects of <Emphasis Type="Italic">Schinus terebinthifolius</Emphasis> Raddi Against Doxorubicin-Induced Toxicity

Doxorubicin is an anticancer drug whose toxic effects on non-cancer cells are associated with increased oxidative stress. This study investigated the chemical composition, antioxidant activity of the methanolic extract of Schinus terebinthifolius Raddi leaves (MESL) as well as effects against doxorubicin-induced toxicity in human erythrocytes, K562 human erythroleukemia cells, and mouse hearts. The chemical composition indicated the presence of phenolic compounds, flavonoids, tannins, and ascorbic acid. MESL showed antioxidant activity by scavenging free radicals and inhibiting hemolysis and lipid peroxidation in human erythrocytes incubated with an oxidizing agent, and was able to increase the enzymatic activity of superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase in human erythrocytes, without influencing the activity of enzyme catalase. The increase of oxidative hemolysis and malondialdehyde levels in erythrocytes incubated with doxorubicin was reduced by treatment with MESL. The cytotoxic activity of doxorubicin in erythroleukemia cells treated with MESL was unmodified. Additionally, the extract protected mice against the doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity. In conclusion, the MESL exhibits antioxidant activity, reducing doxorubicin-induced oxidative stress without changing the anticancer action of the drug, and protects against doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity. Hence, these findings suggest that these effects are via anti-oxidative by inhibiting free radicals, decreased oxidative stress, and increased antioxidant enzyme activity.     

NbCl5 a multifunctional reagent for the synthesis of new halogenated aminoquinoline compounds through innovative one-pot reaction and the acidochromism effect

This paper describes an original one-pot way to synthesize nine new halogenated aminoquinoline derivatives using reactions conducted by niobium pentachloride. Subsequently, we describe an efficient and selective reduction reaction of nitroquinolines using niobium pentachloride and zinc, producing important compounds in the organic synthesis.The results showed that it is an important tool to synthesize these compounds, besides being time- and resources-saving and generating good yields. A quick study of acidochromism was performed.     

The Pre‐exponential Factor in Electrochemistry

Like many branches of science, not to mention culture in general, electrochemistry has a number of recurring topics: Areas of research that are popular for a certain time, then fade away as their possibilities seem to have been exhausted, only to return decades later as progress in experimental or theoretical techniques offer new possibilities for their investigation. A prime example are fuel cells, which have undergone five such cycles, but here we discuss a general concept of kinetics—the pre‐exponential factor of a rate constant—which has undergone two such cycles. The first cycle was in the 1950–1980s, when the methods of electrochemical kinetics were developed, and the interpretation was based on transition‐state theory. The second was triggered by the re‐discovery of Kramers theory for reactions in condensed phases. This Minireview will show that the time has come for a third cycle based on recent progress in electrocatalysis.     

Electrochemical and associated techniques for the study of the inclusion complexes of thymol and β-cyclodextrin and its interaction with DNA

Journal of Solid State Electrochemistry - Thymol, a potent agent for microbial, fungal, and bacterial disease, has low aqueous solubility and it is genotoxic, i.e., is capable of damaging...