The colorless copper(I) cluster [CuN(Si(CH(3))(3))(2)](4), which contains a square-planar Cu(4)N(4) core, phosphoresces in CH(2)Cl(2) solution (lambda(max), 512 nm; lifetime, 30 &mgr;s) and in the solid state at room temperature. Its electronic absorption spectrum in CH(2)Cl(2) consists of two intense bands at 283 and 246 nm; these transitions, as well as the phosphorescence, are likely to involve population of MOs reflecting substantial Cu.Cu interactions. Solid [CuN(Si(CH(3))(3))(2)](4) luminesces with approximately the same spectrum as that of the CH(2)Cl(2) solutions. At 77 K, the solid-state luminescence red-shifts slightly (lambda(max), 524 nm) and narrows substantially (fwhm, 2400 cm(-)(1); vs 3500 cm(-)(1) at 300 K); the emission lifetime in glassy Et(2)O solution is 690 &mgr;s. X-ray analysis of crystals of [CuN(Si(CH(3))(3))(2)](4) at 130 and 296 K shows that, although the previously reported structure solution (in space group I2/m, with the molecules on 2/m sites; Eur. J. Solid State Inorg. Chem. 1992, 29, 573-583) is approximately correct, the lattice is actually primitive, P2/n, and the only crystallographically required symmetry element for the molecule is a 2-fold axis. C(24)H(72)Cu(4)N(4)Si(8): monoclinic, space group P2/n, Z = 2. At 130 K, a = 9.285(3) Å, b = 13.393(3) Å, c = 17.752(5) Å, and beta = 90.53(2) degrees. [At 296 K, a = 9.3773(4) Å, b = 13.5836(7) Å, c = 17.814(2) Å, and beta = 90.207(7) degrees.] At 130 K, the Cu and N atoms in the cluster are planar within 0.007 Å, and the Cu-N and Cu.Cu distances are 1.917(4)-1.925(4) and 2.6770(7)-2.6937(7) Å, respectively. Despite the low volatility of the compound, it can be used as a precursor for chemical vapor deposition (CVD) of copper metal, under H(2) carrier gas, with both source and substrate at ca. 200 degrees C. Smaller amounts of Cu metal films are also deposited when the substrate temperature is as low as 145 degrees C (in the dark) or 136-138 degrees C (under Pyrex-filtered Xe arc lamp illumination). Thus, Cu CVD with this precursor shows slight photochemical enhancement.

ACTRN12609000696291.

BackgroundCalcaneal apophysitis, also commonly known as sever’s disease, is a condition seen in children usually aged between 8–15 years. Conservative therapies, such as taping, heel lifts and orthotic intervention are accepted management practices for calcaneal apophysitis, though there is very little high quality research examining the efficacy of such treatment modalities. Previous narrative literature reviews and opinion pieces provide some evidence for the use of heel raises or orthoses. The aim of this manuscript was to complete a systemic review on the treatment options for calcaneal apophysitis as measured by pain reduction and maintenance of physical activity.MethodsA search strategy completed by two reviewers examined nine databases from inception to May 2012. Search terms included heel pain, children, adolescent, calcaneal apophysitis, sever’s disease, treatment, and management (full text publications, human studies). Systematic reviews, randomised control trials, case series, and case studies were included. The reference lists of the selected articles were also examined. The methodology, quality and risk of bias was examined and assessed using the PEDro scale.ResultsNine articles were retrieved including three clinical trials involving randomisation, two case series, two retrospective case reviews, and two case reports. Effect size calculations and a meta analysis were unable to be completed due to the limited data reported within the literature. Numerous treatment options were reported throughout the literature, though few were examined against a control or alternate treatment option in well-designed trials. The limited evidence indicated that orthoses provided greater short-term pain relief than heel raises. Health practitioners should view these results with caution, as there were apparent methodological problems with the employed study design and limited follow-up of participants.ConclusionThere is limited evidence to support the use of heel raises and orthoses for children who have heel pain related to calcaneal apophysitis. Further research is needed to generate higher quality evidence with larger sample sizes, and validated measures of pain and function to establish effective treatment approaches for children with calcaneal apophysitis.

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