bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
«Actualizar tu sistema» aunque te quedes sin aire: la velocidad tecnológica como veneno de la sociedad digital
Authors: Foglia Efraín
Published: June 2024

Brianna Janel una influencer estadounidense, se quedó encerrada dentro de su automóvil Tesla. El vehículo smart, proyecto favorito del empresario neoconservador de Silicon Valley Elon Musk, necesitaba actualizar su sistema operativo y decidió hacerlo mientras la tiktoker estaba en el interior. Durante la actualización del sistema, el Tesla Model 3 se cerró automáticamente sin permitir salir a su conductora. Al parecer, el automóvil le advirtió que no detuviera la actualización, pues no era bueno para los procesos que necesitaba realizar el sistema operativo del vehículo. Ella decidió quedarse dentro sin pensar, al parecer, en las posibles consecuencias.
El dilema de las copias de seguridad en el delito de sabotaje contra datos informáticos en el derecho penal español
Authors: Requejo-Passoni Wendy
Published: June 2024

Esta investigación se centra en proporcionar una nueva perspectiva desde la cual examinar la respuesta dogmático-penal en casos de ciberincidentes, en los que la información afectada sea recuperable mediante copias de seguridad. Con este propósito se analizará el delito de sabotaje contra datos informáticos, conforme al artículo 264.1 del Código Penal español reformado por la Ley Orgánica 1/2015, en atención a las reformas legislativas comunitarias en materia penal y de ciberseguridad. Además, se explorarán diversas perspectivas doctrinarias y jurisprudenciales. Como se demostrará en este trabajo, la recuperabilidad del objeto material del delito convierte el supuesto fáctico descrito en un caso de atipicidad. Asimismo, en situaciones de pérdida total o parcial de la información, la reacción penal solo estará justificada si se cumple con el elemento típico de la doble gravedad, como consecuencia del sentido interpretativo restrictivo plasmado en el texto legal y a la política criminal de la Unión Europea en materia de ciberdelincuencia.
La reforma de la ley de mecenazgo y su impacto en la tributación de las operaciones de crowdfunding no lucrativo. Algunas cuestiones olvidadas
Authors: Casanellas Chuecos Montserrat
Published: June 2024

El Real Decreto-ley 6/2023, de 19 de diciembre ha introducido importantes modificaciones en la Ley 49/2002, de 23 de diciembre, de régimen fiscal de las entidades sin fines lucrativos y de incentivos fiscales al mecenazgo, texto normativo que constituye el único marco legal al que acudir para valorar la posible aplicación de algún incentivo fiscal a las actuaciones de crowdfunding no lucrativo. En este contexto, en el presente trabajo se analizan las reformas que tienen un impacto directo en este fenómeno y se apuntan cuestiones diversas que han quedado al margen pero que urge tomar en consideración en una futura regulación global del fenómeno.
A formação das famílias livres: Campinas, 1774-1850
Authors: Eduardo Teixeira Paulo
Published: June 2024

Em São Paulo, o aumento demográfico no século XVIII provocou a ocupação de novas porções do território, ampliando o espaço agrícola e empurrando progressivamente as fronteiras mais para o Oeste e para o Sul. Por trás desse aumento populacional, estava uma política colonial de povoamento, iniciada com a Restauração administrativa da Capitania de São Paulo, em 1765. Neste livro, Paulo Eduardo Teixeira elegeu a região de Campinas como lócus para seu estudo sobre a dinâmica demográfica em São Paulo, apontando as variáveis que interferiram e definiram a sociedade paulista no passado. A escolha desse município não foi aleatória. Ao longo de sua trajetória acadêmica, o autor dedicou parte de seus estudos a esse pequeno bairro da vila de Jundiaí que, no despontar do século XIX, tornou-se uma vila que atraiu os olhares de inúmeros migrantes. Tal conhecimento o aproximou das questões demográficas e, assim, Teixeira vislumbrou a oportunidade de estabelecer um diálogo profícuo sobre os sistemas demográficos no Brasil, principalmente porque para áreas de plantations isso ainda não foi realizado.
Aminoglycoside tolerance in Vibrio cholerae engages translational reprogramming associated with queuosine tRNA modification
Authors: Fruchard Louna , Babosan Anamaria , Carvalho Andre , Lang Manon , Li Blaise , Duchateau Magalie , Giai Gianetto Quentin , Matondo Mariette , Bonhomme Frederic , Hatin Isabelle , Arbes Hugo , Fabret Céline , Corler Enora , Sanchez Guillaume , Marchand Virginie , Motorin Yuri , Namy Olivier , de Crécy-Lagard Valérie , Mazel Didier , Baharoglu Zeynep
Published: June 2024

Tgt is the enzyme modifying the guanine (G) in tRNAs with GUN anticodon to queuosine (Q). tgt is required for optimal growth of Vibrio cholerae in the presence of sub-lethal aminoglycoside concentrations. We further explored here the role of the Q34 in the efficiency of codon decoding upon tobramycin exposure. We characterized its impact on the overall bacterial proteome, and elucidated the molecular mechanisms underlying the effects of Q34 modification in antibiotic translational stress response. Using molecular reporters, we showed that Q34 impacts the efficiency of decoding at tyrosine TAT and TAC codons. Proteomics analyses revealed that the anti-SoxR factor RsxA is better translated in the absence of tgt. RsxA displays a codon bias toward tyrosine TAT and overabundance of RsxA leads to decreased expression of genes belonging to SoxR oxidative stress regulon. We also identified conditions that regulate tgt expression. We propose that regulation of Q34 modification in response to environmental cues leads to translational reprogramming of transcripts bearing a biased tyrosine codon usage. In silico analysis further identified candidate genes which could be subject to such translational regulation, among which DNA repair factors. Such transcripts, fitting the definition of modification tunable transcripts, are central in the bacterial response to antibiotics.
Spatial periodicity in grid cell firing is explained by a neural sequence code of 2-D trajectories
Authors: Rebecca R.G. , Ascoli Giorgio A. , Sutton Nate M. , Dannenberg Holger
Published: June 2024

Spatial periodicity in grid cell firing has been interpreted as a neural metric for space providing animals with a coordinate system in navigating physical and mental spaces. However, the specific computational problem being solved by grid cells has remained elusive. Here, we provide mathematical proof that spatial periodicity in grid cell firing is the only possible solution to a neural sequence code of 2-D trajectories and that the hexagonal firing pattern of grid cells is the most parsimonious solution to such a sequence code. We thereby provide a teleological cause for the existence of grid cells and reveal the underlying nature of the global geometric organization in grid maps as a direct consequence of a simple local sequence code. A sequence code by grid cells provides intuitive explanations for many previously puzzling experimental observations and may transform our thinking about grid cells.
Does bumblebee preference of continuous over interrupted strings in string-pulling tasks indicate means-end comprehension?
Authors: Wen Chao , Lu Yuyi , Solvi Cwyn , Wang Cai , Wen Xiujun , Dong Shikui , Wen Junbao , Peng Fei , Chittka Lars
Published: June 2024

Bumblebees (
Bombus terrestris
) have been shown to engage in string-pulling behavior to access rewards. The objective of this study was to elucidate whether bumblebees display a means-end comprehension in string-pulling task. We presented bumblebees with tasks involving choosing between two options: one where a string is connected to an artificial flower containing a reward and the other involving interrupted strings. Surprisingly, bumblebees displayed a consistent preference for pulling connected strings over interrupted ones after training with a stepwise pulling technique. Intriguingly, when exposed to novel string colors, bees continued to exhibit a bias towards pulling the connected string. This suggests that bumblebees engage in featural generalization of the visual display of the string connected to the flower in this task. When the bumblebees were confronted with coiled connected strings during the testing phase, they failed to identify and reject interrupted strings. This finding underscores the significance of visual consistency in enabling the bumblebees to perform the task successfully. Our results suggest that bumblebees to distinguish between continuous strings and interrupted strings relies on a combination of image matching and associative learning, rather than means-end understanding. These insights contribute to a deeper understanding of the cognitive processes employed by bumblebees when tackling complex spatial tasks.
Mechanical forces pattern endocardial Notch activation via mTORC2-PKC pathway
Authors: Mu Yunfei , Hu Shijia , Liu Xiangyang , Tang Xin , Shi Hongjun
Published: June 2024

Notch signaling has been identified as a key regulatory pathway in patterning the endocardium through activation of endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in the atrioventricular canal (AVC) and proximal outflow tract (OFT) region. However, the precise mechanism underlying Notch activation remains elusive. By transiently blocking the heartbeat of E9.5 mouse embryos, we found that Notch activation in the arterial endothelium was dependent on its ligand Dll4, whereas the reduced expression of Dll4 in the endocardium led to a ligand-depleted field, allowing Notch to be specifically activated in AVC and OFT by regional increased shear stress. The strong shear stress altered the membrane lipid microdomain structure of endocardial cells, which activated mTORC2 and PKC and promoted Notch1 cleavage even in the absence of strong ligand stimulation. These findings highlight the role of mechanical forces as a primary cue for endocardial patterning and provide insights into the mechanisms underlying congenital heart diseases of endocardial origin.
The autophagy protein, ATG14 safeguards against unscheduled pyroptosis activation to enable embryo transport during early pregnancy
Authors: Popli Pooja , Oestreich Arin K , Maurya Vineet K , Rowen Marina N , Zhang Yong , Holtzman Michael J , Masand Ramya , Lydon John , Akira Shizuo , Moley Kelle H , Kommagani Ramakrishna
Published: June 2024

Recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL), characterized by two or more failed clinical pregnancies, poses a significant challenge to reproductive health. In addition to embryo quality and endometrial function, proper oviduct function is also essential for successful pregnancy establishment. Therefore, structural abnormalities or inflammation resulting from infection in the oviduct may impede the transport of embryos to the endometrium, thereby increasing the risk of miscarriage. However, our understanding of the biological processes that preserve the oviductal cellular structure and functional integrity is limited. Here, we report that Atg14-dependent autophagy plays a crucial role in maintaining the cellular integrity of the oviduct by controlling inflammatory responses, thereby supporting efficient embryo transport. Specifically, the conditional depletion of the autophagy-related gene,
Atg14
in the oviduct causes severe structural abnormalities compromising its cellular integrity leading to the abnormal retention of embryos. Interestingly, the selective loss of
Atg14
in oviduct ciliary epithelial cells did not impact female fertility, highlighting the specificity of ATG14 function in distinct cell types within the oviduct. Mechanistically, loss of
Atg14
triggered unscheduled pyroptosis via altering the mitochondrial integrity leading to inappropriate embryo retention and impeded embryo transport in the oviduct. Finally, pharmacological activation of pyroptosis in pregnant mice phenocopied the genetically induced defect and caused impairment in embryo transport. Together, we found that ATG14 safeguards against unscheduled pyroptosis activation to enable embryo transport from the oviduct to uterus for the successful implantation. Of clinical significance, these findings provide possible insights into the underlying mechanism(s) of early pregnancy loss and might aid in developing novel prevention strategies using autophagy modulators.
Fast grassland recovery from viable propagules after reintroducing traditional mowing management on a steep slope
Authors: Yamada Susumu , Yoshida Wakana , Iida Minori , Kitagawa Yoshiko , Mitchley Jonathan
Published: June 2024

Semi-natural grasslands on steep slopes often show high plant species diversity. These grasslands were traditionally maintained through mowing and/or grazing. The traditional management practices help to maintain species diversity, whereas land abandonment reduces diversity by increasing competition from dominant species and reducing seedling recruitment. The reintroduction of management can reverse species diversity declines, but suitable grassland restoration programs are scarce in Japan. To study the effect of short-term abandonment on seedling ecology, we monitored the vegetation of a Susogari grassland that had been abandoned for 3 years; the grassland occupies a steep slope (ca. 50°) on a hillside above paddy fields, and was traditionally mown. We monitored the vegetation before abandonment, in the 3rd year of abandonment, and in the 1st and 2nd years after restoration of mowing management. Emergence and survival of seedlings was monitored for 18 months after reintroduction of management. We monitored 1,183 seedlings of grassland species and non-target annuals in ten 1-m2 plots. After mowing was reintroduced, most grassland species reappeared or increased in the first and second years. Few seedlings of perennial plants and no seedlings of annuals flowered. An exotic species, Solidago altissima, had a lower survival rate (10%) than grassland species (>30%), and all but two grassland species survived over the 18-month period. Although vegetation composition was not fully recovered, our findings suggest that a steep slope acts as a strong filter that inhibits the establishment of non-target species while enhancing persistence of target grassland species.
Escala Tripartita de Autoritarismo de Derecha (ACT): Adaptación, Validación y Pruebas de Invarianza en Chile
Authors: Obreque Oviedo Patricia , Cárdenas Castro Manuel , Gallardo Cuadra Ismael
Published: June 2024

El concepto de autoritarismo ocupa un lugar importante en la psicología social, pero los principales instrumentos disponibles han evidenciado una serie de incongruencias. En un intento por superarlas se propone la Escala Tripartita de Autoritarismo de Derecha (ACT). La escala ACT considera las tres dimensiones que la componen como actitudes ideológicas diferentes entre sí, que expresan apoyo a estrategias que privilegian la seguridad colectiva, con base en una autoridad y orden colectivo, a expensas de la autonomía individual y libre expresión. El objetivo de este estudio fue adaptar y validar una versión abreviada de la ACT. La muestra (n=341) fue no probabilística por conveniencia, compuesta por residentes en diversas regiones de Chile. La escala fue traducida del inglés al español, retrotraducida y cotejada por expertos. Del total original de 36 ítems, fueron seleccionados 12, de acuerdo con criterios psicométricos, semánticos y de adecuación al contexto. Los resultados mostraron buenos indicadores psicométricos: índices de confiabilidad (α = 0,86 y ꞷ = 0,92) e índices de ajuste en el AFC que confirmaría la estructura de tres factores (2= 69,41, CFI = 0,98, TLI= 0,98, SRMR = 0,04, RMSEA = 0,04 y AIC = 13871,30). Los indicadores de las pruebas de invarianza según sexo permitirían afirmar que no se violan los supuestos hasta el nivel de invarianza estricta. Estos resultados apoyan que la ACT-12 es un instrumento útil para medir fenómenos sociopolíticos complejos ya que aporta evidencias de la validez del constructo.
Role of Mustard Seed Extract Based Hydrogel as an Adjunct to Non-surgical Periodontal Therapy in Chronic Periodontitis Patients: A Pilot Interventional Study
Authors: Bajpai Devika , Malaiappan Sankari
Published: June 2024

Introduction: Periodontitis is a chronic inflammatory disease that leads to the destruction of both the hard and soft tissues of the periodontium. Various herbal extracts can be used as a Local Drug Delivery (LDD) agent to suppress the inflammation caused by micro-organisms. Aim: To evaluate the effectiveness of a hydrogel based on mustard seed extract as an adjunct to Non-surgical Periodontal Therapy (NSPT) for the treatment of chronic periodontitis. Materials and Methods: This pilot interventional study was conducted at Saveetha Dental College and Hospitals, Chennai between June 2023 and July 2023. The study included a total of 30 participants diagnosed with chronic periodontitis who were divided into two groups: group A (n=15) received only Scaling and Root Planing (SRP), while group B (n=15) received SRP along with 0.5% mustard seed extract hydrogel. Baseline and two-week post-operative assessments included recording of Gingival Index (GI), Plaque Index (PI), and modified Sulcus Bleeding Index (mSBI). The data was analysed by Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS), software version 23.0 for windows. An independent t-test was conducted to assess significance between the two groups, while the comparison of baseline and post-operative variables within each group was done using a paired t-test. A p-value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: The mean age of study participants was 38.04±8.12 years in group A and 40.36±7.45 years in group B. The group treated with 0.5% hydrogel based on mustard seed extract exhibited a noteworthy enhancement in PI (p<0.05*). Intra-group comparisons revealed a significant difference in baseline and 2-week post-operative values for all parameters except mSBI in group A, although group B showed a significant difference for all the parameters (p<0.05*). Inter-group comparisons at two weeks showed statistically significant improvement in group B for PI but not for GI and mSBI. Conclusion: The supplemental application of 0.5% hydrogel derived from mustard seed extract alongside SRP yielded promising outcomes, suggesting a novel approach in the management of chronic periodontitis.
Effect of Soil Application of Cyazypyr 20% SC, New Anthranilic Diamide Insecticide against Whitefly, Bemisia tabaci Genn. in Brinjal
Authors: Chand P. , Mandal S. K. , Tiwari Abhishek Pati , Yadav Ankit
Published: June 2024

Brinjal Solanum melongena L. is an herbaceous, tropical perennial plant, belongs to the family Solanaceae which is grown for its edible fruit. Among the different major insect pests infesting brinjal, whitefly, Bemicia tabaci (Genn.), is very important under West Bengal condition. The experiment was conducted during the 2013 and 2014 in the University farm at Kalyani, West Bengal state of India. Cv ‘Muktakeshi’ was grown in plots measuring 5 m×5 m, at spacing of 1 m x 0.75 m with three replication. The plots were set out in a randomized block design with six treatments including an untreated check. Five doses of cyazypyr 20% SC (4.5 MAT ,6.0 MAT, 7.5 MAT, 9.0 MAT and, 12 MAT in both year 2013 and 2014) were sprayed every year for their efficacy, After 50 days of treatment cyazypyr 20% SC @ 9.0 and 7.5 MAT (3.33 and 6.87 whiteflies / 5 leaves, respectively) maintained their superiority in controlling whiteflies, while @ 6.0 and 4.5 MAT (7.93 and 8.40 whiteflies / 5 leaves, respectively) and this treatment failed to show any significant difference from untreated control.
Stability Indicating RP-HPLC Method Development and Validation for Imeglimin HCL in Pharmaceutical Dosage form
Authors: Adhao Vaibhav S. , Chaudhari Shreyash P. , Ambhore Jaya P.
Published: June 2024

Background: Imeglimin HCL is a medication used in pharmaceutical products. To ensure its quality and effectiveness, it's crucial to have a reliable method to measure its concentration in these products. High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) is a common technique for this purpose.
Objective: This study aimed to develop and validate a precise and accurate stability indicating HPLC method for measuring Imeglimin HCL in pharmaceutical formulations.
Methods: The method optimization process included selecting a suitable chromatographic column and determining the optimal mobile phase composition. A Credchrom C18 column (250mm x 4.6 mm x 5µm) was chosen, and a mobile phase consisting of Phosphate Buffer and acetonitrile (80:20, v/v) was identified as optimal. The selected conditions provided satisfactory resolution and a retention time of 2.5 minutes for Imeglimin HCL, with detection achieved at a wavelength of 241nm. Validation parameters, including linearity, precision, accuracy, limit of detection (LOD), and limit of quantification (LOQ), were thoroughly evaluated. Precision was assessed through %RSD values for repeatability and intra-day and inter-day precision. Accuracy was determined by % recovery, with values ranging from 98.00% to 102%. Subsequently, force degradation studies were conducted to further assess the method's stability.
Results: The developed RP-HPLC method exhibited excellent linearity (R^2 close to 1) and sensitivity, with LOD and LOQ values of 0.577722 μg/ml and 1.750673 μg/ml, respectively. Precision, as indicated by %RSD values, ranged from 0.994733 for repeatability to 0.988377–0.7480963 for intra-day precision and 0.988377–10.9883477 for inter-day precision. Accuracy, reflected by % recovery, was within acceptable limits (98.62–100.34%). These results, along with successful force degradation studies, confirmed the method's reliability and stability.
Conclusions: In conclusion, the developed RP-HPLC method offers a sensitive, precise, and accurate means for the estimation of Imeglimin HCL in pharmaceutical formulations. Its robustness and stability make it suitable for routine analysis in pharmaceutical laboratories, ensuring the quality and efficacy of Imeglimin-containing products.
Global Challenges Facing Plant Pathology: A Review on Multidisciplinary Approaches to Meet the Food Security
Authors: Kumar Ashwini , Mahanta Dibyajyoti , Dange Mohini M. , Trivedi Ayushi , Nandeha Nirjharnee
Published: June 2024

Plant disease outbreaks cause a decline in primary productivity and biodiversity, which negatively impacts the socioeconomic and environmental circumstances in the afflicted areas. They also pose significant threats to the environment's sustainability and the world's food security. Climate change increases the risk of outbreaks by altering host-pathogen interactions, altering the development of pathogens, and encouraging the emergence of new pathogenic strains. Changes in the range of pathogens can cause plant diseases to spread more quickly in new areas. In this review, we examine the potential effects of future climatic scenarios on plant disease pressures and the resulting effects on plant productivity in agricultural and wild environments. We study the effects of climate change, both now and in the future, on disease incidence and severity, pathogen biogeography, natural ecosystems, agriculture, and food production. To mitigate future disease outbreaks, we propose modifying the current conceptual framework and integrating eco-evolutionary theories into studies to improve our mechanistic comprehension and prediction of pathogen spread in future climates. We stress the need of an interface between science and policy that works closely with relevant intergovernmental organisations to provide effective monitoring and management of plant disease under future climate scenarios. This will be necessary to ensure long-term food and nutrient security as well as the sustainability of natural ecosystems.
Effect of Planting Geometry and Inorganic Fertilizers with Nano Urea Quality and Nutrient Uptake of Rice Crop (Oryza sativa L.)
Authors: Singh Manju , Singh A.K. , Azam Kamaran , Singh Vikash , Marufi Mohammad Nabi , Pandey Alok Kumar
Published: June 2024

The present investigation entitled “Influence of planting geometry and inorganic fertilizers with nano urea on productivity of rice crop (Oryza sativa L.).” was conducted at Agronomy Research Farm of Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology, Narendra Nagar (Kumarganj), Faizabad-224229 (U.P.) during Kharif seasons of 2022 and 2023. Fifteen treatment combinations comprised of three planting geometry C1 (20 cm × 10 cm), C2 (20 cm × 15 cm) and C3 (20 cm × 20 cm) in main plot with five fertility levels F1 - 100% RDF (150:60:40), F2 [100% RDF + Two foliar spray of nano urea @ 3000 ml ha-1(Tillering and Panicle initiation stage)], F3 [75% RDF + Two foliar spray of nano urea @ 3000 ml ha-1(Tillering and Panicle initiation stage)], F4 [50% RDF + Two foliar spray of nano urea @ 3000 ml ha-1(Tillering and Panicle initiation stage)] and F5 - Control [no fertilizers] were executed in split plot design keeping fertility levels in sub plot with three replications. The soil of experimental plot was silty loam in texture with low in orgainic carbon and nitrogen médium in phosphorus and high in potassium. The treatment combination C1 (20 cm × 10 cm) along with F2 [100% RDF + two foliar applications of nano urea at 3000 ml ha-1 (during Tillering and Panicle initiation stages)] demonstrated significantly elevated levels of quality and nutrient uptake, including protein content (%), yield (kg ha-1), NPK content (%), and NPK uptake (kg ha-1). This performance was comparable to the combination of C1 (20 cm × 10 cm) with F3 [75% RDF + two foliar applications of nano urea at 3000 ml ha-1 (during Tillering and Panicle initiation stages)], and notably surpassed other treatments. In summary, the utilization of C1 (20 cm × 10 cm) coupled with F2 [100% RDF + foliar spray of nano urea @ 3000 ml ha-1 (during Tillering and Panicle initiation stages)] exhibited superior outcomes across all parameters of quality and nutrient absorption, leading to increased rice crop yield and profitability over both study years.
Photoelectric Cooperative Induced Wetting on Aligned‐Nanopore Arrays for Liquid Reprography
Authors: Tian Dongliang , Zhai Jin , Song Yanlin , Jiang Lei
Published: September 2011

Surface wettability as a response to the cooperation of different stimuli has been intensively studied and provides more advantages than as a response to a single stimulus. Recently, we demonstrated the patterned wettability transition from the Cassie to the Wenzel state on a superhydrophobic aligned‐ZnO‐nanorod array surface via a photoelectric cooperative wetting process. However, the specific aligned‐nanorod array structure of such devices is easily damaged due to their low mechanical strength and cannot sustain multiple transfer printing. Meanwhile, the patterned wetting process is not easily controlled due to the air‐permeable structure of adjacent nanorods. As a result, in practice, it is difficult to apply liquid reprography on such a nanostructure. Here, we demonstrate photoelectric cooperative induced patterned wetting on the superhydrophobic aligned‐nanopore array surface of TiO2‐coated nanoporous AAO film, which has a high mechanical strength and excellent controllability. Liquid reprography is achieved through the patterned wetting process on the superhydrophobic aligned‐nanopore array surface, which is a new progression in liquid reprography, and is promising for gearing up the application of photoelectric cooperative liquid reprography.
Facile Synthesis and In‐Vitro Antimalarial Activity of Novel α‐Hydroxy Hydrazonates
Authors: Khankischpur Mehdi , Hansen Finn K. , Meurer Ronald , Mauz Tobias , Bergmann Baerbel , Walter Rolf D. , Geffken Detlef
Published: September 2011

A series of previously unreported α‐hydroxy hydrazonates were synthesized and tested for their antimalarial properties. Structure optimization of the antiplasmodially active α‐hydroxy hydrazonate III furnished derivatives with strong in‐vitro antimalarial activity against 3D7 strains of Plasmodium falciparum with IC50 values lower than 2.0 µM.
The potential of spatially resolved spectroscopy for monitoring angiogenesis in the chorioallantoic membrane
Authors: Verhoelst Eva , Bamelis Flip , Ketelaere Bart De , Trong Nghia Nguyen Do , Baerdemaeker Josse De , Saeys Wouter , Tsuta Mizuki , Decuypere Eddy
Published: September 2011

Over the last decade, the poultry sector has sought to develop ways to monitor chicken embryonic development as to optimize the incubation conditions. One of the parameters of development which may change under different incubation conditions is the angiogenesis in the chorioallantoic membrane (CAM). To be able to quantify these changes in the angiogenesis and detect long‐term effects on health, a non‐destructive technique is necessary. In this article, the first steps toward such a non‐destructive technique are successfully taken. A spatially resolved spectroscopy set‐up is built and tested for its potential to measure changes in angiogenesis with incubation time, and differences between a normal and hypercapnic incubation. In this first study, reflectance measurements are performed directly on the CAM as the eggshell considerably complicates the analysis. This issue should be addressed in future research to come to a really non‐destructive technique. An experiment was conducted in which one group was incubated under normal conditions, and another under early prenatal hypercapnic conditions (i.e., increased CO2 concentrations). The angiogenesis in the CAM was measured at embryonic day (ED) 10, 13, and 16. The measurements showed a clear blood spectrum with an increasing amount of blood in time, and significant differences in the reflectance as function of the source‐detector distances. However, no significant differences between the hypercapnia and the control group could be detected. © 2011 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog.,, 2011
Percutaneous atrial septal defect closure in a child with interrupted inferior vena cava: Successful femoral venous approach
Authors: Lowry Adam W. , Pignatelli Ricardo H. , Justino Henri
Published: September 2011

Interrupted inferior vena cava (IVC) with azygous continuation to the superior vena cava (SVC) is a relatively common systemic venous anomaly. This anomaly can occasionally complicate transcatheter intervention by rendering more difficult the usual direct route to the systemic venous atrium afforded by femoral venous access. We report our experience with successful transcatheter closure of a large residual atrial septal defect (ASD) using the femoral venous route in a 3‐year‐old patient with heterotaxy syndrome of left isomerism type, dextrocardia, partial atrioventricular canal defect, and interrupted IVC with azygous continuation to the SVC. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Selective Oxidation of D‐Galactose over Gold Catalysts
Authors: Kusema Bright T. , Campo Betiana C. , Simakova Olga A. , Leino Anne‐Riika , Kordás Krisztián , Mäki‐Arvela Päivi , Salmi Tapio , Murzin Dmitry Yu
Published: September 2011

The selective oxidation of D‐galactose to galactonic acid over Au/Al2O3 was studied isothermally in a semi‐batch shaker reactor under pH‐controlled conditions at atmospheric pressure. A series of Au/Al2O3 catalysts were prepared and calcined at different temperatures to achieve different gold‐particle sizes. The catalytic properties of the gold nanoparticles were affected by the cluster size. A detailed comparison of activity and selectivity of these catalysts was made, which demonstrated that Au/Al2O3 with a mean particle size of 2.6 nm exhibited the highest activity. The influence of the pH value of the reaction medium on the selective oxidation of D‐galactose was elucidated. Alkaline conditions were characterized by high catalyst activity and selectivity to aldonic acid. Inhibition of the catalytic activity was observed in the acidic medium. The intermediate species was present at low pH values, and this resulted in low conversion and selectivity to the main product, galactonic acid. The electrochemical potential of the catalyst was correlated to the catalytic activity.
Magnetic and Mechanical Anisotropy in a Manganese 2‐Methylsuccinate Framework Structure
Authors: Li Wei , Barton Phillip T. , Kiran M. S. R. N. , Burwood Ryan P. , Ramamurty U. , Cheetham Anthony K.
Published: September 2011

Hybrid inorganic–organic framework materials exhibit unique properties that can be advantageously tuned through choice of the inorganic and organic components and by control of the crystal structure. We present a new hydrothermally prepared 3D hybrid framework, [Mn(2‐methylsuccinate)]n (1), comprising alternating 2D manganese oxide sheets and isolated MnO6 octahedra, pillared via syn, anti–syn carboxylates. Powder magnetic characterization shows that the compound is a homospin MnII ferrimagnet below 2.4 K. The easy‐axis is revealed by single‐crystal magnetic susceptibility studies and a magnetic structure is proposed. Anisotropic elastic moduli and hardness, observed through nanoindentation on differing crystal facets, were correlated with specific structural features. Such measurements of anisotropy are not commonly undertaken, yet allow for a more comprehensive understanding of structure–property relationships.
Oligocholate Foldamers as Carriers for Hydrophilic Molecules across Lipid Bilayers
Authors: Zhang Shiyong , Zhao Yan
Published: September 2011

Three cholate foldamers were synthesized by the click reaction between an azide‐functionalized cholate trimer and different dialkynyl linkers. The foldamers were labeled with pyrene groups at the ends for their conformational study. The linkers between the two tricholate fragments were found to strongly influence the conformation of the foldamers in solution, as well as their ability to transport hydrophilic molecules across lipid bilayers. The folding of the oligocholates in mixed organic solvents was studied by fluorescence and UV/Vis spectroscopy. Although these molecules could not fold permanently in lipid bilayers, they were found to translocate carboxyfluorescein readily across by a carrier‐based mechanism. The transport is proposed to happen when the oligocholates adopt transiently folded structures with a hydrophobic exterior and a hydrophilic internal cavity. The transport rate strongly depended on the structure of the oligocholates and was sensitive even to the change of a single bond in a foldamer 3000 Da in MW. Better folded oligocholates in solution gave slower transport in the membranes.
A 5′‐Cap for DNA Probes Binding RNA Target Strands
Authors: Egetenmeyer Simone , Richert Clemens
Published: September 2011

Detecting short RNA strands with high fidelity at any of the bases of their sequence, including the termini, can be challenging, since fraying, wobbling, and refolding all compete with canonical base pairing. We performed a search for 5′‐substituents of oligodeoxynucleotides that increase base pairing fidelity at the terminus of duplexes with RNA target strands. From a total of over 70 caps, differing in stacking moiety and linker, a phosphodiester‐linked sequence of the residues ofL‐prolinol, glycine, and oxolinic acid, dubbedogOA, was identified as a 5′‐cap that stabilizes any of the four canonical base pairs, with ΔTmvalues of up to +13.1 °C for an octamer. At the same time, the cap increases discrimination against any of the 12 possible terminal mismatches, including mismatches that are more stable than their perfectly matched counterparts in the control duplex, such as A:A. A probe with the cap also showed increased selectivity in the detection of two closely related microRNAs, let7c and let7a, with a ΔTmvalue of 9.2 °C. Melting curves also yielded thermodynamic data that shed light on the uniformity of molecular recognition in the sequence space of DNA:DNA and DNA:RNA duplexes. Hybridization probes with fidelity‐enhancing caps should find applications in the individual and parallel detection of biologically active RNA species.
Capping Ligand Perturbed Slow Magnetic Relaxation in Dysprosium Single‐Ion Magnets
Authors: Bi Ye , Guo Yun‐Nan , Zhao Lang , Guo Yang , Lin Shuang‐Yan , Jiang Shang‐Da , Tang Jinkui , Wang Bing‐Wu , Gao Song
Published: September 2011

Single‐ion magnets 1 and 2 and their diamagnetic analogues 3 and 4 for magnetic‐site dilution were obtained through substitution of the coordinated water molecules of [Ln(TTA)3(H2O)2] (Ln=Dy (1, 2), Y (3, 4); TTA=4,4,4‐trifluoro‐1‐(2‐thienyl)‐1,3‐butanedionate) by 2,2′‐bipyridine (1, 3) and 1,10‐phenanthroline (2, 4) capping ligands. Their structures and magnetic properties were investigated with the goal of identifying features relevant to modulating relaxation dynamics of single‐ion magnets. The metal ions in all complexes adopt an approximately square‐antiprismatic (SAP) O6N2 coordination environment. The SAP polyhedrons for both 1 and 2 show slight longitudinal compression, while the coordination sphere of 1 deviates more from an ideal SAP than that of 2, as indicated by the skew angles of the SAP environment. The similar values of Ueff for the two magnetically diluted samples imply nearly the same distribution of low‐lying states for their DyIII centers, which is consistent with the slight axial contraction observed for 1 and 2 and further corroborated by ligand‐field analysis. The fast quantum tunneling rate τQTM of 1, which is about ten times faster than that of 2, can presumably be associated with the larger rotation of the SAP surroundings. This distortion may result in a significant transverse anisotropy terms, and thus strongly affect the dynamic behavior of the system.
Stereoselective metabolism of fenoxaprop‐ethyl and its chiral metabolite fenoxaprop in rabbits
Authors: Zhang Yanfeng , Li Xuefeng , Shen Zhigang , Xu Xinyuan , Zhang Ping , Wang Peng , Zhou Zhiqiang
Published: September 2011

The stereoselective metabolism of the enantiomers of fenoxaprop‐ethyl (FE) and its primary chiral metabolite fenoxaprop (FA) in rabbits in vivo and in vitro was studied based on a validated chiral high‐performance liquid chromatography method. The information of in vivo metabolism was obtained by intravenous administration of racemic FE, racemic FA, and optically pure (−)‐(S)‐FE and (+)‐(R)‐FE separately. The results showed that FE degraded very fast to the metabolite FA, which was then metabolized in a stereoselective way in vivo: (−)‐(S)‐FA degraded faster in plasma, heart, lung, liver, kidney, and bile than its antipode. Moreover, a conversion of (−)‐(S)‐FA to (+)‐(R)‐FA in plasma was found after injection of optically pure (−)‐(S)‐ and (+)‐(R)‐FE separately. Either enantiomers were not detected in brain, spleen, muscle, and fat. Plasma concentration–time curves were best described by an open three‐compartment model, and the toxicokinetic parameters of the two enantiomers were significantly different. Different metabolism behaviors were observed in the degradations of FE and FA in the plasma and liver microsomes in vitro, which were helpful for understanding the stereoselective mechanism. This work suggested the stereoselective behaviors of chiral pollutants, and their chiral metabolites in environment should be taken into account for an accurate risk assessment. Chirality, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Neuron numbers in the hypothalamus of the normal aging rhesus monkey: Stability across the adult lifespan and between the sexes
Authors: Roberts D.E. , Killiany R.J. , Rosene D.L.
Published: September 2011

Normal aging is accompanied by changes in hypothalamic functions including autonomic and endocrine functions and circadian rhythms. The rhesus monkey provides an excellent model of normal aging without the potential confounds of incipient Alzheimer's disease inherent in human populations. This study examined the hypothalamus of 51 rhesus monkeys (23 male, 18 female, 6.5–31 years old) using design‐based stereology to obtain unbiased estimates of neuron and glia numbers and the Cavalieri method to estimate volumes for eight reference spaces: total unilateral hypothalamus, suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN), supraoptic nucleus (SON), paraventricular nucleus (PVN), dorsomedial nucleus (DM), ventromedial nucleus (VM), medial mammillary nucleus (MMN), and lateral hypothalamic area (LHA). The results demonstrated no age‐related difference in neuron number, glia number, or volume in any area in either sex except the PVN of male monkeys, which showed a significant increase in both neuron and glia numbers with age. Comparison of males and females for sexual dimorphisms revealed no significant differences in neuron number. However, males had more glia overall as well as in the SCN, DM, and LHA and had a larger hypothalamic volume overall and in the SCN, SON, VM, DM, and MMN. These results demonstrate that hypothalamic neuron loss cannot account for age‐related deficits in hypothalamic function and provides further evidence of the absence of neurodegeneration and cell death in the normal aging rhesus monkey. J. Comp. Neurol. 520:1181–1197, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Cone outer segment extracellular matrix as binding domain for interphotoreceptor retinoid‐binding protein
Authors: Garlipp Mary Alice , Nowak Kevin R. , Gonzalez‐Fernandez Federico
Published: September 2011

Cones are critically dependent on interphotoreceptor retinoid‐binding protein (IRBP) for retinoid delivery in the visual cycle. Cone‐dominant vertebrates offer an opportunity to uncover the molecular basis of IRBP's role in this process. Here, we explore the association of IRBP with the interphotoreceptor matrix (IPM) of cones vs. rods in cone dominant retinas from chicken (Gallus domesticus), turkey (Meleagris gallopavo), and pig (Sus scrofa). Retinas were detached and fixed directly or washed in saline prior to fixation. Disassociated photoreceptors with adherent matrix were also prepared. Under 2 mM CaCl2, insoluble matrix was delaminated from saline washed retinas. The distribution of IRBP, as well as glycans binding peanut agglutinin (cone matrix) and wheat germ agglutinin (rod/cone matrix), was defined by confocal microscopy. Retina flat mounts showed IRBP diffusely distributed in an interconnecting, lattice‐like pattern throughout the entire matrix. Saline wash replaced this pattern with fluorescent annuli surrounding individual cone outer segments. In isolated cones and matrix sheets, IRBP colocalized with the peanut agglutinin binding matrix glycans. Our results reveal a wash‐resistant association of IRBP with a matrix domain immediately surrounding cone outer segments. The cone matrix sheath may be responsible for IRBP‐mediated cone targeting of 11‐cis retinoids. J. Comp. Neurol., 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Impact of Single Basepair Mismatches on Electron‐Transfer Processes at Fc‐PNA⋅DNA Modified Gold Surfaces
Authors: Hüsken Nina , Gębala Magdalena , Battistel Alberto , La Mantia Fabio , Schuhmann Wolfgang , Metzler‐Nolte Nils
Published: September 2011

Gold‐surface grafted peptide nucleic acid (PNA) strands, which carry a redox‐active ferrocene tag, present unique tools to electrochemically investigate their mechanical bending elasticity based on the kinetics of electron‐transfer (ET) processes. A comparative study of the mechanical bending properties and the thermodynamic stability of a series of 12‐mer Fc‐PNA⋅DNA duplexes was carried out. A single basepair mismatch was integrated at all possible strand positions to provide nanoscopic insights into the physicochemical changes provoked by the presence of a single basepair mismatch with regard to its position within the strand. The ET processes at single mismatch Fc‐PNA⋅DNA modified surfaces were found to proceed with increasing diffusion limitation and decreasing standard ET rate constants k0 when the single basepair mismatch was dislocated along the strand towards its free‐dangling Fc‐modified end. The observed ET characteristics are considered to be due to a punctual increase in the strand elasticity at the mismatch position. The kinetic mismatch discrimination with respect to the fully‐complementary duplex presents a basis for an electrochemical DNA sensing strategy based on the Fc‐PNA⋅DNA bending dynamics for loosely packed monolayers. In a general sense, the strand elasticity presents a further physicochemical property which is affected by a single basepair mismatch which may possibly be used as a basis for future DNA sensing concepts for the specific detection of single basepair mismatches.
Analytical Characteristics of Electrochemical Biosensor Using Pt‐Dispersed Graphene on Boron Doped Diamond Electrode
Authors: Song Min‐Jung , Kim Jong‐Hoon , Lee Seung‐Koo , Lim Dae‐Soon , Hwang Sung Woo , Whang Dongmok
Published: September 2011

An electrochemical biosensor was developed using Pt‐nanoparticles (Pt‐NPs) dispersed graphene based on a boron‐doped diamond thin film electrode. To compare its performances with those of other biosensors, glucose was used as a target analyte. This biosensor exhibited a wide linear range, a low detection limit and a higher sensitivity compared to other amperometric biosensors using graphene‐based electrodes. In addition, the biosensor promotes a direct electron transfer between the redox enzymes and the electrode surface and detects low concentration analytes. The excellent performance of the biosensor is attributed to the synergistic effect of the Pt‐NPs, graphene sheet and the BDD thin film. Therefore, it can be a promising application for electrochemical detection of analytes.
Direct Determination of Cadmium Traces in Natural Water by Adsorptive Stripping Voltammetry in the Presence of Cupferron as a Chelating Agent
Authors: Grabarczyk Malgorzata , Koper Anna
Published: September 2011

A sensitive, simple and fast adsorptive stripping voltammetric procedure for trace determination of cadmium in natural samples containing high concentrations of surface active substances and humic substances has been developed. The method is based on adsorptive accumulation of the Cd(II)‐cupferron complex onto a hanging mercury drop electrode, followed by the reduction of the adsorbed species by a voltammetric scan using differential pulse modulation. The detection limit was 3×10−10 mol L−1 (33.6 ng L−1) with an accumulation time 30 s. The procedure was applied to the determination of Cd(II) in natural water samples without any pre‐treatment with satisfactory results.
Influence of Methyl Substituent Position on Redox Properties of Nitroaromatics Related to 2,4,6‐Trinitrotoluene
Authors: Chua Chun Kiang , Pumera Martin
Published: September 2011

The environmental remediation of military installation sites is very important due to frequently large presence of carcinogenic derivatives of explosives in the ground and in ground waters. These nitroaromatic explosives and their derivatives are assessed by sensing devices. It is highly important to have insight on the reasons affecting the reduction potentials of these compounds. The redox properties of mono‐, di‐ and tri‐nitroaromatic compounds are studied with cyclic voltammetry at a glassy carbon electrode for comparison. We show that the presence of a methyl group in the aromatic system leads into more negative reduction potentials. The ease of nitro group reduction vary from meta>para>ortho positions relative to a methyl group. The redox properties were also studied at various pH ranging from 2 to 10. Acidic environments facilitated the reduction processes at lower potentials. These findings will have a profound influence upon understanding the processes during reductive decontaminations of the polluted sites as well as for construction of highly sensitive sensors for their determination.
Forecast Evaluation of Nonlinear Models: The Case of Long‐Span Real Exchange Rates
Authors: Pavlidis Efthymios G. , Paya Ivan , Peel David A.
Published: September 2011

This paper deals with the nonlinear modeling and forecasting of the dollar–sterling and franc–sterling real exchange rates using long spans of data. Our contribution is threefold. First, we provide significant evidence of smooth transition dynamics in the series by employing a battery of recently developed in‐sample statistical tests. Second, we investigate the small‐sample properties of several evaluation measures for comparing recursive forecasts when one of the competing models is nonlinear. Finally, we run a forecasting race for the post‐Bretton Woods era between the nonlinear real exchange rate model, the random walk, and the linear autoregressive model. The nonlinear model outperforms all rival models in the dollar–sterling case but cannot beat the linear autoregressive in the franc–sterling. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.