bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Udviklingen i Danmarks grønne nettonationalindkomst, 1990-2020
Authors: Birch Sørensen Peter , Gravgård Pedersen Ole , Bredahl Jacobsen Jette
Published: April 2024

Artiklen sammenstykker resultaterne fra de øvrige artikler i dette temanummer til et samlet billede af udviklingen i Danmarks grønne nettonationalindkomst (GNNI). Det gøres ved at korrigere nationalregnskabets konventionelle forbrug og konventionelle opsparing for en række miljøomkostninger ved de økonomiske aktiviteter og samtidigt indregne værdien af naturens rekreative tjenester. Vi finder, at GNNI har udviklet sig nogenlunde parallelt med den konventionelle nettonationalindkomst (NNI) i perioden 1990-2020 med en niveauforskel, der har svinget omkring 200 mia. kr. i 2023-priser. NNI var dermed ca. 10 procent højere end GNNI mod slutningen af perioden, hvilket indikerer, at NNI indebærer en væsentlig overvurdering af Danmarks velstand, når man indregner velfærdstabet ved de løbende forureningsomkostninger og den løbende nedbrydning af naturkapital. Det omtrent konstante niveau for de reale forureningsomkostninger tyder på, at Danmark ikke har oplevet ”grøn vækst” i de sidste tre årtier, da væksten i den konventionelle nationalindkomst ikke er blevet ledsaget af mærkbart faldende miljøomkostninger.
The modern concept of public forest functions
Authors: Došenović Ljiljana
Published: April 2024

Forest, as one of the most complex and most important natural ecosystems, is characterized by numerous and very important characteristics that have permanently or current significance for human society, for life on earth and therefore we consider forest complexes as spatial functional components. The United Nations Environment Program (UNEP) and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) have jointly published a report entitled The State of the World’s Forests (SOFO 2020). From the functional aspect, forests have been defined as: areas of certain way and type of use, as well as roles in providing appropriate ecological conditions, primarly that forests supply the planet with water, that they are the key to combating climate change and biodiversity conservation, to provide more than 86 million jobs and support the existence of 880 million people worldwide. The Ministerial Conference on the Protection of Forests in Europe (MCPFE), a top-level policy initiative for the development of processes for the protection and sustainable management of forests since 1993, places urgent demands on forestry theory and practice and sector related to forestry planning. The explicit view (MCPFE) was that when planning and setting priorities, imponderable values of forests are given equal importance as values that produce financial effects. Therefore, when adopting planning settings related to forest valuation, cost-benefit analysis is necessary, where the benefits of forest complexes are an important input, especially in the closer zones of urban areas when it comes to social functions. Then in the process of planning forest management as an urban resource, the participation and influence of the local population is very important, because the goal is to recognize their participation and needs as primary, to harmonize with other plans, policies and finally with specific activities in the forest management process. The forest rarely has a single function. There are several, the same or different functional values. In that case, they can be either parallel functions, when the needs are stimulated by the same forest management measures, or opposite fonctions, when different procedures of harmonization with the goals and methods of forest management are required for their performance.
Use of biomass for biofuel production
Authors: Rakašćan Nikola , Ikanović Jela , Živanović Ljubiša , Milunović Igor , Popović Vera
Published: April 2024

Plant biomass is the largest renewable energy source. Republic of Srpska and the Republic of Serbia are among the top European countries in terms of the amount of available and unused biomass. Biogas is a product obtained by anaerobic decomposition of organic matter with the help of a complex of microorganisms in biogas power plants. All types of biomass which contains carbohydrates, proteins, fats, cellulose and hemicellulose can be used to obtain biogas. In theoretical terms, biogas can be produced from any substrate of organic origin. Also, there are possibilities to combine different types of substrates in one biogas plant. However, there are technical or economic limitations to this, which is why it is best to use several types of substrates of different origins in practice. Depending on the physical state, substrates are divided into solid and liquid. Liquid substrates include sewage and various wastewaters with a significant content of organic matter, while solid substrates include manure, various types of silage, food waste, solid organic municipal waste and other types of organic waste. The special importance of the production and use of biogas, as a type of renewable energy source, is the prevention of emissions of methane, a gas that increases the greenhouse effect (the intensity is 23 times higher than carbon dioxide). Also, the use of biogas as a fuel, most often produces electricity, and thus contributes to the realization of the set goals of greater use of renewable energy sources. An additional positive impact is the reduction of the spread of unpleasant odors, prevention of soil and groundwater pollution. Positive socioeconomic effects are also being achieved, rural development is being encouraged, and human and material resources are being used better at the local level. When studying the possibilities of biogas production, the quantities and prices of individual substrates are first considered. Their characteristics are analyzed, which determine the potential for biogas production, and thus the size of the biogas plant. Only a small part of the liquid and solid biomass in the fermentation plant is transformed into biogas. The rest of this process needs to be taken care of and used in an adequate way. The rest of the fermentation is aby-product in the production of biogas, and it is most often used as a fertilizer. It contains plant nutrients and organic matter, and by returning to agricultural areas, it contributes to preserving the fertility of the land. One of the ways to use the rest of the fermentation is to produce pellets or briquettes after separation and drying, and to use it as a solid fuel. Thanks to the development of new technologies for processing bio-waste into energy, the rate of increase in the use of alternative fuels is growing significantly.
IOI and Infra Finder
Authors: Tsang Emmy , Aspaas Per Pippin
Published: April 2024

Invest in Open Infrastructure (IOI) is a non-profit initiative specialising in undertaking research on infrastructure tailor-made for open science and in discussing their findings with stakeholders to increase the investment in, and adoption of, open infrastructure. With a team of eight based in Europe, the USA and Africa, IOI also supports the adoption of open infrastructure through research-based funding pilots such as the IOI Fund. Its most recent tool is a collaboratively developed, openly available database designed to help institutions identify and evaluate open infrastructure solutions. This database, the Infra Finder, at the time of its launch contains structured information on 57 infrastructure providers that can be compared in a side-by-side view.

First published online: April 23, 2024.
Discovery of a peculiar insular race of Ravenna nivea (Nire, 1920) (Lepidoptera: Lycaenidae) endemic to Yinggeling Mountain of Hainan, suggesting heterogeneous geological history of mountain formation of the island
Authors: Hsu Yu-Feng , Lo Yik Fui Philip , Lin Rung-Juen
Published: April 2024

A peculiar population of Ravenna nivea (Nire, 1920) was discovered from the Yinggeling Mountain Mass of central Hainan. Its wing pattern and COI barcode data show considerable distinction from other geographic populations of R. nivea, including that of Bawangling, approximately only 40 km away and also located in Hainan. The p-distance value of the COI barcode between the Yinggeling and Bawangling populations was 1.1%, considerably higher than the value (0.6%) between Bawangling population and populations in eastern China, where the subspecific name howarthi Saigusa, 1993 applies. The population is regarded as a distinct subspecies ngiunmoiae Lo & Hsu, subsp. nov. The distinctness and high degree of COI haplotype diversity of R. nivea found in Hainan and Taiwan suggest continental islands may serve as glacial refugees for the butterfly and other organisms during previous glaciations, and the presence of the relict populations of montane butterflies like R. nivea may provide useful clues towards a better understanding of the geological history of mountain formation within islands.
Mega sequía en La Ligua y la aspiración por la seguridad hídrica:
Authors: Otero Auristondo María José , Duarte Camila , Gutiérrez Natalie , Neira Francisca , Palma María Antonieta , Vidal Paz
Published: April 2024

Durante la última década, Chile ha experimentado una mega-sequía que ha agudizado los conflictos socioambientales debido a la inequidad en el acceso al agua en las zonas rurales de sus Valles Centrales. Estudios recientes han analizado el efecto combinado de los cambios climáticos y el consumo de agua en cuencas afectadas por la sequía. Sin embargo, los estudios sobre las respuestas comunales actuales e históricas a las sequías constituyen aspectos poco explorados.Por lo tanto, la comuna de La Ligua presenta un caso de estudio importante, ya que analizar los comportamientos adaptativos de sus comunidades a condiciones propensas a sequías podría indicar respuestas resilientes a los conflictos hídricos. Estos comportamientos, a largo plazo, tienen el potencial de revelar claves sociales chilenas para procesos como el Cambio Climático.Esta investigación se basa en metodologías mixtas, donde las entrevistas y los sistemas de información geográfica serán los métodos principales de recolección y análisis de datos. Se espera facilitar la identificación de un tipo particular de resiliencia asociada a las sequías, lo cual podría contribuir a rediseñar la política nacional de gestión del riesgo de sequía centrada en y desde los territorios para la seguridad hídrica.
Microbiological Evaluation of Paediatric Chronic Haematogenous Osteomyelitis in a Tertiary Care Hospital in Northern India and its Association with Radiological Appearance: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Peshin Chetan , Ratra Rohan , Juyal Anil
Published: April 2024

Introduction: Chronic osteomyelitis in the paediatric age group is a frequent complication of improperly treated acute haematogenous osteomyelitis, leading to devastating complications such as pathological fractures and deformities in affected children. There is a growing need to comprehend the disease process and develop improved treatment strategies. Aim: To evaluate bacterial culture and antibiotic sensitivity patterns in children and adolescents with chronic haematogenous osteomyelitis in North India and to explore associations between radiological patterns and antibiotic sensitivity. Materials and Methods: The present retrospective study was conducted in the Department of Orthopaedics of tertiary care centre, Himalayan Institute of Medical Sciences, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, North India, from July 2018 to June 2020. Total 100 children and young adolescents with chronic osteomyelitis who reported to OPD of hospital with pus discharge from an extremity persisting for more than six weeks, along with radiological features indicative of chronic osteomyelitis. Parameters such as site of infection, illness duration, blood parameters, bacteriological culture reports, etc., were examined. Radiological evaluation was performed using the Beit CURE (BC) classification. Data were analysed and represented in the form of frequencies and percentages. The Chi-square test was used to compare proportions, with significance set at p-value<0.05. Results: The median age of the study population was 13 years, there were 32 (32%) females and 68 (68%) males. The majority of cases (70%) belonged to the B1-B3 group. Staphylococcus aureus was responsible for 86 (86%) cases, followed by Pseudomonas aeruginosa in 7 (7%) cases. Out of the 86 Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) isolates, 58 (67.44%) were Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Multidrug resistance was observed among gram-negative species, as well. Pseudomonas aeruginosa showed resistance to fluoroquinolones in 4 (57%) cases, aminoglycosides in 2 (28%) cases, and carbapenem in 1 (14%) case, which is considered highly effective in treating serious infections caused by multidrug resistant Gram-negative species. No significant association was found between drug sensitivity patterns and radiological features in the present study. Conclusion: Staphylococcus aureus remains the most predominant organism isolated from deep tissue cultures. Among S. aureus isolates, MRSA was the most frequently identified. Identifying the causative organism may be challenging in some cases. Among cases where the offending microbe was identified, drug resistance was widespread among both Gram-negative and Gram-positive specimens. No significant relationship was found between the radiological appearance of infected bone and the pattern of antibiotic resistance.
СУБТРАКТИВНЫЙ ПРОЦЕСС ФОРМИРОВАНИЯ СИСТЕМЫ МЕТАЛЛИЗАЦИИ
Authors: Резванов А.А. , Серегин Д.С. , Гвоздев В.А. , Вишневский А.С. , Кузнецов П.И. , Морозов Е.Н. , Воротилов К.А. , Горохов С.А.
Published: April 2024

Исследован субтрактивный процесс создания системы металлизации интегральных схем. В качестве модельных использованы структуры с алюминиевыми и медными проводниками, имеющие различный шаг. Заполнение зазоров между проводниками проводилось методом химического осаждения из раствора. Сформированные органосиликатные слои обеспечивали полную или частичную планаризацию рельефа. Электрические измерения свидетельствовали о снижении ёмкости и токов утечек в структурах с нанопористыми диэлектрическими слоями.
Evaluation of the Microbiological Quality of Three Varieties of Kilichi Produced in Niger
Authors: Abdel-Kader Alio Sanda , Alio Almou Abdoulaye , Chaibou Yaou , Abdoulahi Mahamane Idi Issa , Seini Sabo Haoua , Hassimi Sadou
Published: April 2024

Kilichi is a food based on beef, mutton or goat meat that is processed by slicing, dressing, drying in the sun and applying spice porridge and roasting over a hot fire. Traditional processing conditions and practices for this product may pose risks of microbiological contamination and pose serious public health concerns.

The objective of this study was to assess the microbiological quality of Niger's kilichis. A total of twenty-two samples of kilichi of three variants (single kilichi "KS", archide kilichi "Kilichi Fari" and peanut paste kilichi with Jawa "Kilichi Ja"). Total Mesophilic Aerobic Flora (TMAF), total coliforms, faecal coliforms, Escherichia coli and Salmonella were determined after the preparation of the stock solutions, decimal dilution and seeding on selective media. The results showed that the samples of the kilichi coated with the peanut paste sauce are more loaded with sought-after sprouts. However, single kilichi is more loaded with faecal coliform, 3,52x106 CFU/ml; 2,11x105 CFU/ml and 1,17x106 CFU/ml for kilichi single, kilichi Fari and kilichi Ja respectively. These results show that the microbial load of kilichi samples is higher than the microbial criteria that cooked deli products must meet.
Problems Faced by the Consumers While Buying and Using the Electric Two Wheeler in Thrissur District, Kerala, India
Authors: K K Aswathy , K N Ushadevi
Published: April 2024

Aim: The study aimed to identify the problems faced by the consumers while buying and using the electric two wheeler.

Methodology: Data required for the study were collected from primary and secondary sources. The primary survey were conducted among the respondents through a pre-structured interview schedule during the month of May 2023. Secondary data were collected from websites, government reports and publications. A total of 30 respondents who are using electric vehicles were selected from Thrissur, using a random sampling method. The identified problems of consumers while buying and using electric vehicle are ranked by making use of Garrett’s Ranking Technique.

Results: Based on Garrett’s ranking, it can be seen that the major problems faced by the consumers while buying electric vehicle were high vehicle cost and the major problem faced by the consumers while using were lack of service centers and followed by lack of skilled labor (breakdown & maintenance).

Conclusion: The results of this study will aid marketers in understanding the problems of consumers. Understanding this would give marketers the ability to create and carry out their marketing strategies effectively, giving them a stronger competitive edge.
Biological, Serological and Molecular Characterization of Cucumber mosaic virus (CMV) Infecting Cucurbita moschata (Duchene ex. Poir) (Summer Squash) in Itu and Uyo Local Governments Areas, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria
Authors: Usanga Daniel A. , Owolabi Ayodeji T. , Eyong Oduba I.
Published: April 2024

Cucurbita moschata is an edible member of the family Cucurbitaceae. The plant is commonly observed showing typical virus-like symptoms during the growing season in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. A total of 7 leaf samples showing typical virus-like symptoms were collected from C. moschata in different locations in Itu and Uyo Local Government, Akwa Ibom State. All the virus isolates used in this study were sap transmissible with a wide host range. The virus isolates irrespective of the place of collection were transmitted in a fore-gut manner by A. spiraecola. Aphis citricida did not transmit the viruses. All the virus isolates reacted positively to cucumovirus polyclonal antibody in antigen coated plate-ELISA (ACP-ELISA). Gel electrophoresis of the cDNA of the virus isolates produced 500 base pairs typical of Cucumber mosaic virus. The gene sequence analysis revealed that all the isolates had sequence homology of 95% and above with Cucumber mosaic virus (CMV) and are therefore considered strains of CMV. The results also showed that CMV isolates investigated in this study shared common ancestry, though belonging to different clusters. The results also indicated that CMV could be widespread and therefore a threat to C. moschata production in Itu and Uyo Local Government Areas of Akwa Ibom State. This is the first report of CMV infecting C. moschata in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. Further work should be carried out to cover the entire state.
Phytochemistry and Evaluation of Acute Toxicity of Aqueous and Hydroethanolic Extracts of Pavetta corymbosa Leaves (Rubiaceae)
Authors: Patrice Miezan Bilé Aka , Yves Kouamé Yao , François Kouakou Yeboué Koffi , Blaise Kayo
Published: April 2024

Pavetta corymbosa (Rubiaceae) is a plant widely known in sub-Saharan Africa in the field of traditional medicine. It is used empirically against certain pathologies such as malaria, diabetes, hemorrhages and typhoid fever. However, there is no scientific data on its phytochemical and biological profile, so this study was carried out to research the chemical groups contained in the leaves of this plant and determine the toxicological parameters which would justify its use in traditional medicine. Several standard characterization methods were used for phytochemical screening of aqueous and   hydroethanolic extracts of Pavetta corymbosa leaves. The study of the acute toxicity of the two types of extracts from the leaves of this plant was carried out according to the OECD guideline 423 using Wistar rats. Phytochemical screening indicated the existence of polyphenols, saponosides, quinones, flavonoids, polyterpenes and sterols in the two types of extracts of this plant, which would justify its biological and pharmacological effects. The study of the acute toxicity of these two types of extracts, administered intraperitoneally to Wistar rats, showed no mortality of the rats. These toxicological results allow us to qualify the leaves of Pavetta corymbosa as being non-toxic, hence the interest in its use in traditional medicine against certain pathologies.
Amino Acid Compositions, In Vitro Antioxidant and Anti-diabetic Properties of Cookies from Wheat and Kidney Beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) Flour blends
Authors: Olowookere Dele Ayorinde , Malomo Sunday Abiodun
Published: April 2024

This study evaluated the in vitro antioxidant and antidiabetic activities of the cookies produced from wheat and kidney bean composite flours at different ratios viz: 100:0 (WKB 1), 80:20 (WKB 2), 60:40 (WKB 3), 40:60 (WKB 4), respectively. The proximate compositions of the composite flour blends improved during the baking process into cookie, most especially the crude fibre (12.09-13.73%) and crude protein (18-21%) contents, respectively. The amino acid profiles of the cookies were well established with high biological values (>70%) with good essential, non-essential and hydrophobic amino acids while glutamic acid was mostly abundant in the cookies. The in-vitro antioxidant properties of the cookie samples were more potent (~80%) when compared with a standard ascorbic acid, a well-known antioxidant. Besides, the in-vitro anti-diabetic properties of the cookie samples were revealed through their improved α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibition potentials (~70%) when compared with a standard acarbose, a well-known anti-diabetic drug. The weights (5.20-6.41 g), width (45.70-45.88 mm), thickness (5.03-5.06 mm) and spread ratio (11.89-12.26) of the cookies from the composite flours were significantly (P<0.05) comparable to the control (WKB 1) sample, respectively. This, however did not alter the organoleptic attributes of the composite cookie samples when compared to the commercial ones. We therefore concluded that the cookies rich in antioxidants and anti-diabetic potentials could be produced from wheat and kidney bean flour blends.
Iron Heterogeneity in Soil and its Relation to its Uptake by Water Leaf (Talinum Triangulaire L.)
Authors: Ogunlade-Anibasa, G.O.  , Aniki, S.O.  , Ameh, P.T.  , Igwemmar, N.C .
Published: April 2024

This study investigated the relationship between iron (Fe) heterogeneity in soil and Fe uptake by water leaf (Talinum triangulaire). A greenhouse pot experiment was conducted with water leaf grown under three treatments; control (0mg/kg Fe added), homogeneous (1000mg/kg Fe added), and heterogeneous (simulated realistic heterogeneity) for six weeks after initial establishment in the nursery for four weeks). At harvest, plant samples were cut, washed, dried, milled into powder and analyzed for iron concentrations using the Atomic Absorption Spectrometer (AAS) Thermos Fisher Scientific Model 3000 ICE after acid digest by Nitric acid (HNO3). The mean root Fe concentrations of the control, homogeneous and heterogeneous treatments were 1263 ±154mg/kg, 1504 ±178mg/kg and 1393mg/kg ±140mg/kg respectively. The mean shoot Fe concentrations of the control, homogeneous and heterogeneous treatments were 904 ±174u mg/kg, 1401±117 mg/kg and 1045 ±95 mg/kg respectively. There was no statistically significant difference (p >0.005) in shoot and root Fe concentration between treatments. However, the homogeneous treatment was 0.19 times higher than the control and 0.07 times higher than the heterogeneous treatment.  Iron level in the roots was 0.35 times high as the control and 0.25 times higher than the heterogeneous treatment. The Concentration factors for the control, homogeneous, and heterogeneous treatments were 0.1118, 0.1498 and 0.1258 respectively. The similarity in concentration factor between treatments showed that it is an accumulator of Fe and has the affinity for Fe irrespective of the varied soil concentrations. These findings indicate that water leaf possesses mechanisms enabling efficient Fe acquisition from variable soil conditions. Overall, the study provides initial evidence that water leaf is resilient to variability in soil Fe distribution, holding implications for its improved cultivation. However, further research on the specific genes and processes governing iron mobilization and uptake in water leaf is recommended.
Prevalence, Associated Factors and Treatment Outcomes of Laboratory-confirmed Pregnancy Malaria at Antenatal Care in Three Healthcare Facilities of Douala, Cameroon
Authors: Kuete Thomas , Essome Henri , Moche Larissa Boukam , Anabianina Nadège , Mangamba Christiane Keddy , Ekobo Albert Same
Published: April 2024

Pregnancy malaria is a life-threatening condition to the mother, the fetus and the newborn. Since the implementation of the World Health Organization’s recommendations of specific malaria control strategies to pregnant women in malaria endemic countries, evaluation studies are needed to assess the prevalence of malaria in pregnancy. This cross-sectional prospective study was therefore set to determine the prevalence and associated factors as well as the treatment outcomes of Plasmodium infection among pregnant women attending antenatal care in three hospitals of Douala in Cameroon.

Each volunteered pregnant woman received for antenatal care was questioned according to the study questionnaire to collect sociodemographic data, use of malaria prevention tools and pregnancy history. Then a laboratory test was carried for Plasmodium detection in the peripheral blood using microscopy and a HRP2-based rapid diagnostic test. Plasmodium carrying pregnant women were treated according to the national malaria program scheme followed by post-treatment follow-up. Data were processed and analyzed using SPSS.20 software. Association of Plasmodium infection with risk factors was analyzed as univariate using Pearson Chi-square and Fisher Exact tests considering a P-value < 0.05 as statistically significant.

A total of 487 pregnant women aged between 18 years and 42 years were included in the study. The prevalence of Plasmodium infection was 3.5% and 4.3% by malaria rapid diagnostic test and microscopy respectively. Only Plasmodium falciparum asexual stage was detected. Parasite loads were low.  Factors associated with Plasmodium falciparum higher prevalence were being less than 21 years old (0.02), not sleeping under mosquitoe net daily (p=0.04) and having fever during the pregnancy (p=0.04). Parenteral treatment with either artesunate, artemether or quinine sulfate showed good efficacy.

Conclusion: Pregnant women attending the antenatal cares harbored low Plasmodium infection prevalence and loads. Being of young age, not sleeping under mosquitoe bednet daily and having fever during the pregnancy were predictive Plasmodium falciparum. Plasmodium infected pregnant women were successfully treated with antimalarial medications recommended by the national Ministry of Public Health. The authors recommend increasing efforts by health authorities to strengthen malaria prevention in pregnant women through more adherence to sleeping under ITNs daily and taking IPT-sp as well as systematic detection of Plasmodium infection at each antenatal visit.
30 Jahre UNIDROIT Principles – Unifying the Commercial World — Zugleich Ankündigung einer gleichnamigen Konferenz in Hamburg am 6./7.6.2024
Authors: Brödermann Eckart
Published: April 2024

Anlässlich des 30. Geburtstags der erstmals 1994 veröffentlichten Unidroit Principles of International Commercial Contracts fasst dieser Beitrag ihre in weltweiter Praxis erprobte Doppelrolle zusammen (neben der Beeinflussung von nationalen Gesetzgebern): Als wählbare Rechtsregel, am besten in Kombination mit einer Schiedsklausel (Simplified Global Contracting), und als Auslegungshilfe für nationales Recht aufgrund ihrer Qualität als allgemeine Rechtsprinzipien des internationalen Vertragsrechts.
Scanning Kelvin Probe Microscopy on Bulk Heterojunction Polymer Blends
Authors: Maturová Klára , Kemerink Martijn , Wienk Martijn M. , Charrier Dimitri S. H. , Janssen René A. J.
Published: March 2009

Here, correlated AFM and scanning Kelvin probe microscopy measurements with sub‐100 nm resolution on the phase‐separated active layer of polymer‐fullerene (MDMO‐PPV:PCBM) bulk heterojunction solar cells in the dark and under illumination are described. Using numerical modeling a fully quantitative explanation for the contrast and shifts of the surface potential in dark and light is provided. Under illumination an excess of photogenerated electrons is present in both the donor and acceptor phases. From the time evolution of the surface potential after switching off the light the contributions of free and trapped electrons can be identified. Based on these measurements the relative 3D energy level shifts of the sample are calculated. Moreover, by comparing devices with fine and coarse phase separation, it is found that the inferior performance of the latter devices is, at least partially, due to poor electron transport.
Copper‐Catalyzed Preparation of γ‐Alkylidenebutenolides and Isocoumarins under Mild Palladium‐Free Conditions
Authors: Inack‐Ngi Samuel , Rahmani Raphaël , Commeiras Laurent , Chouraqui Gaëlle , Thibonnet Jérôme , Duchêne Alain , Abarbri Mohamed , Parrain Jean‐Luc
Published: March 2009

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A general and efficient copper(I)‐catalyzed cross‐coupling and heterocyclization reaction of terminal alkynes and β‐iodo‐α,β‐unsaturated acid derivatives has been developed under very mild conditions. This method provides easy access from good to excellent yields of a variety of 5‐ylidenebutenolides and 3‐substituted isocoumarins with excellent regio‐ and stereoselectivity. This procedure does not require the use of any expensive supplementary additives, and is palladium‐free.
Grandparental investment: The influence of reproductive timing and family size
Authors: Coall David A. , Meier Marc , Hertwig Ralph , Wänke Michaela , Höpflinger François
Published: March 2009

The influence that grandparents have on the life history traits of their descendants has been studied extensively. However, no attention has been paid to the potential influence a grandparent's own reproductive history has on the investment they make in their grandchildren. We use data from 658 Swiss grandchildren and 591 of their grandparents to investigate whether grandparents' reproductive scheduling and family size influence the amount of investment grandparents make in a focal grandchild (shared contacts, occasions to meet, activities, discussions, interests, and important roles the grandparent plays). Grandparents who were younger when they had their first child had more children and grandchildren; this relationship strengthened after controlling for grandparental age, sex, lineage, and education (all P < 0.001). Generally, having more children or grandchildren was associated with reduced levels of grandparental investment. After adjustment for a wide range of factors known to influence investment, having more children or grandchildren and having a first child or grandchild at a younger age were associated with reduced investment in 14 of 24 analyses (all P < 0.09). The association between reproductive scheduling and investment was partially mediated by the grandparent's family size. Interestingly, these relationships were only present in data reported from the grandchild's point of view, not the grandparent's. This analysis provides preliminary evidence that grandparents' reproductive strategies have consequences for the amount of investment they make in their grandchildren. These results are examined in terms of the trade‐offs between current and future reproduction and offspring quality and quantity. Am. J. Hum. Biol., 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Varicella zoster virus is not a disease‐relevant antigen in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Burgoon Mark P. , Cohrs Randall J. , Bennett Jeffrey L. , Anderson Sarah W. , Ritchie Alanna M. , Cepok Sabine , Hemmer Bernhard , Gilden Don , Owens Gregory P.
Published: March 2009

Herpesvirions and varicella zoster virus (VZV) DNA were recently reported in all 15 cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) samples from patients with relapsing‐remitting multiple sclerosis (MS) obtained within 1 week of exacerbation. Using identical electron microscopic and polymerase chain reaction techniques, including additional primer sets representing different regions of the VZV genome, we found no herpesvirions or VZV DNA in MS CSF or acute MS plaques. Although enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay analysis demonstrated a higher titer of VZV antibody in MS CSF than in inflammatory control samples, recombinant antibodies prepared from clonally expanded MS CSF plasma cells did not bind to VZV. VZV is not a disease‐relevant antigen in MS. Ann Neurol 2009;65:474–479
CCL21 overexpressed on lymphatic vessels drives thymic hyperplasia in myasthenia
Authors: Berrih‐Aknin Sonia , Ruhlmann Nathalie , Bismuth Jacky , Cizeron‐Clairac Géraldine , Zelman Einat , Shachar Idit , Dartevelle Philippe , de Rosbo Nicole Kerlero , Le Panse Rozen
Published: March 2009

Objective

Myasthenia gravis (MG), a neuromuscular disease mediated by anti‐acetylcholine receptor (AChR) autoantibodies, is associated with thymic hyperplasia characterized by ectopic germinal centers that contain pathogenic antibody‐producing B cells. Our thymic transcriptome study demonstrated increased expression of CCL21, a recruiter of immune cells. Accordingly, we are investigating its implication in MG pathogenesis.

Methods

The expression of CCL21 and its CCR7 receptor was analyzed by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay and fluorescence‐activated cell sorting, respectively. Chemotaxis of T and B cells to CCL21 was measured by transwell assay. The nature of the thymic cells overexpressing CCL21 was investigated by immunochemistry and laser‐capture microdissection combined with real‐time PCR.

Results

We demonstrate that CCL21 is overexpressed specifically in hyperplastic MG thymuses, whereas there is no variation in CCR7 levels on blood cells. We show that although CCL21 attracts both human T and B cells, it acts more strongly on naive B cells. CCL21 overexpression is normalized in corticoid‐treated MG patients, suggesting that targeting this chemokine could represent a new selective treatment, decreasing the abnormal peripheral lymphocyte recruitment. Moreover, we locate protein and messenger RNA overexpression of CCL21 to specific endothelial vessels. Investigation of the nature of these vessels demonstrated different angiogenic processes in MG thymuses: high endothelial venule angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis. Unexpectedly, CCL21 overexpression originates from afferent lymphatic endothelial vessels.

Interpretation

We postulate that thymic overexpression of CCL21 on specialized lymphatic vessels results in abnormal peripheral lymphocyte recruitment, bringing naive B cells in contact with the inflammatory environment characteristic of MG thymuses, where they can be sensitized against AChR. Ann Neurol 2009;66:521–531
Remission of epilepsy after two drug failures in children: A prospective study
Authors: Berg Anne T. , Levy Susan R. , Testa Francine M. , D'Souza Ramona
Published: March 2009

Objective

Determine the probability of a more than 1‐year remission after failure of a second drug in children prospectively followed from initial diagnosis of epilepsy and then from time of second drug failure. Identify prognostic factors for remission after second drug failure.

Methods

Of 613 children, 128 did not respond favorably to 2 drugs, had a trial of at least a third drug (median, 3), and were followed for more than 1 year (median, 10.1 years) since second drug failure. Product limit and proportional hazards techniques were used to analyze predictors of any 1‐year remission (Rem1) and 1‐ and 3‐year remission at last contact (Rem1/3‐LC).

Results

Seventy‐three patients (57%) had a remission. Repeated remissions and relapses were common. Only 48 (37.5%) achieved Rem1‐LC and 28 (23%) Rem3‐LC. Idiopathic epilepsy (Rem1: rate ratio [RR], 3.64, p < 0.0001; Rem1‐LC: RR, 2.57, p = 0.008) and seizure frequency (Rem1: RR, 0.76, p = 0.003; Rem1‐LC: RR, 0.82, p = 0.04 per increase in category) were the most robust predictors. Symptomatic cause was the only correlate of Rem3‐LC. Remission before second drug failure did not predict remission after second drug failure.

Interpretation

Remission after second drug failure is common but often temporary. Children who have not responded to two appropriate drugs should be carefully evaluated to maximize therapy and possibly considered for more aggressive treatments. Ann Neurol 2009;65:510–519
Crystal‐Structure Determination of Powdered Paramagnetic Lanthanide Complexes by Proton NMR Spectroscopy
Authors: Kervern Gwendal , D'Aléo Anthony , Toupet Loïc , Maury Olivier , Emsley Lyndon , Pintacuda Guido
Published: March 2009

Shifts for crystals: Solid‐state NMR spectroscopy can be used for structure determination of microcrystalline paramagnetic solids at natural isotopic abundance. The protocol makes use of paramagnetic effects, measured on suitably recorded 1H NMR spectra, to define the conformation of a molecule in the lattice and the intermolecular packing in the solid phase. The method is illustrated with a family of lanthanide compounds (see picture).

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Iterative In Situ Click Chemistry Creates Antibody‐like Protein‐Capture Agents
Authors: Agnew Heather D. , Rohde Rosemary D. , Millward Steven W. , Nag Arundhati , Yeo Woon‐Seok , Hein Jason E. , Pitram Suresh M. , Tariq Abdul Ahad , Burns Vanessa M. , Krom Russell J. , Fokin Valery V. , Sharpless K. Barry , Heath James R.
Published: March 2009

Special agents for protein capture: Iterative in situ click chemistry (see scheme for the tertiary ligand screen) and the one‐bead–one‐compound method for the creation of a peptide library enable the fragment‐based assembly of selective high‐affinity protein‐capture agents. The resulting ligands are water‐soluble and stable chemically, biochemically, and thermally. They can be produced in gram quantities through copper(I)‐catalyzed cycloaddition.

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Preparation a novel pH‐sensitive blend hydrogel based on polyaspartic acid and ethylcellulose for controlled release of naproxen sodium
Authors: Cao Hui , Zhu Jianting , Su Haijia , Fang Li , Tan Tianwei
Published: March 2009

Hydrogels based on pH‐sensitive polymers are of great interest as potential biomaterials for the controlled delivery of drug molecules. In this study, a novel, pH‐sensitive hydrogel was synthesized by poly(aspartic acid) (PASP) crosslinked with 1,6‐hexanediamine and reinforced with ethylcellulose (EC). The loading and release characteristics of naproxen sodium (NS) were studied. The PASP–EC blend hydrogels had pH‐sensitive characteristics and were strongly dependent on the pH value. The release kinetics for NS from the PASP–EC blend hydrogels and PASP hydrogel were evaluated in simulated gastric fluid (pH = 1.05) and simulated intestinal fluid (pH = 6.8) at 37°C. The results showed that the drug‐loaded hydrogels were resistant to simulated gastric fluid, and hence, they could be useful for oral drug delivery. Compared with the PASP hydrogel, the PASP–EC blend hydrogels showed a lower release rate of NS in the same pH conditions. It was evident that the presence of hydrophobic groups (EC) retarded the release of NS and led to sustained release. The kinetics of NS release from the drug‐loaded hydrogels conformed to the Korsmeyer–Peppas model. The release exponent of the model was 0.7291, which indicated multiple drug release. The PASP–EC blend hydrogels were biodegradable and pH sensitive; there would be a wide range of applications for them in controlled drug‐delivery systems. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2009
Latex film performance of styrene–acrylic particles functionalized with acrylic acid
Authors: Montesinos‐Gómez Rosa , Reynoso Rodolfo , Rodríguez‐Gómez Francisco J. , Reyes‐Mercado Yuri , Vázquez Flavio
Published: March 2009

Latex polymers are frequently used as substitutes for solvent‐borne coatings in environmental friendly technologies. However, the relationship between the copolymer composition and the latex film performance must be established. The preparation of a series of styrene–n‐butyl acrylate latexes functionalized with different amounts of acrylic acid through semicontinuous emulsion polymerization is presented. In this work, latexes were employed to study the modification of the latex film properties by the addition of acrylic acid during the polymerization; mainly, the adhesion to the substrate, the water vapor permeability, and the electrical film resistance were examined. The most advantageous acrylic acid content was established by a balance of the tested properties. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2009
Physiology of Aspergillus niger in oxygen‐limited continuous cultures: Influence of aeration, carbon source concentration and dilution rate
Authors: Diano A. , Peeters J. , Dynesen J. , Nielsen J.
Published: March 2009

In industrial production of enzymes using the filamentous fungus Aspergillus niger supply of sufficient oxygen is often a limitation, resulting in the formation of by‐products such as polyols. In order to identify the mechanisms behind formation of the different by‐products we studied the effect of low oxygen availability, at different carbon source concentrations and at different specific growth rates, on the metabolism of A. niger, using continuous cultures. The results show that there is an increase in the production of tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle intermediates at low oxygen concentrations. Indeed, at these conditions, a decrease in the mitochondrial respiratory chain activity leads to an accumulation of NADH and to a decreased ATP production which uncouples catabolism and anabolism, influences the intracellular pH and leads to production and excretion of organic acids. Moreover, mannitol is being produced in order to ensure reoxidation of NADH, and this is the main cellular response to balance the ratio NADH/NAD at low oxygen availability. Mannitol production is also coupled to low specific growth rate, which suggests a control of carbon catabolite repression on the mannitol pathway. The roles of two other polyols, erythritol and glycerol, were also investigated. Both compounds are known to accumulate intracellularly, at high osmotic pressure, in order to restore the osmotic balance, but we show that the efficiency of this system is affected by a leakage of polyols through the membrane. Biotechnol. Bioeng. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2009;103: 956–965. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Position‐Specific Incorporation of Fluorescent Non‐natural Amino Acids into Maltose‐Binding Protein for Detection of Ligand Binding by FRET and Fluorescence Quenching
Authors: Iijima Issei , Hohsaka Takahiro
Published: March 2009

FRETting about MBP: Position‐specific incorporation of fluorescent groups is a useful method for analysis of the functions and structures of proteins. Here we demonstrate that position‐specific incorporation of fluorescent non‐natural amino acids in response to expanded codons enables us to detect ligand‐binding activity of maltose‐binding protein (MBP) through fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) and ligand‐dependent fluorescence quenching.

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Position‐specific incorporation of fluorescent groups is a useful method for analysis of the functions and structures of proteins. We have developed a method for the incorporation of visible‐wavelength‐fluorescent non‐natural amino acids into proteins in a cell‐free translation system. Using this technique, we introduced one or two BODIPY‐linked amino acids into maltose‐binding protein (MBP) to obtain MBP derivatives showing ligand‐dependent changes in fluorescence intensity or intensity ratio. BODIPY‐FL‐aminophenylalanine was incorporated in place of 15 tyrosines, as well as the N‐terminal Lys1, and the C‐terminal Lys370 of MBP. Fluorescence measurements revealed that MBP containing a BODIPY‐FL moiety in place of Tyr210 showed a 13‐fold increase in fluorescence upon binding of maltose. Tryptophan‐to‐phenylalanine substitutions suggest that the increase in fluorescence was the result of a decrease in the quenching of BODIPY‐FL by tryptophan located around the binding site. MBP containing a BODIPY‐558 moiety also showed a maltose‐dependent increase in fluorescence. BODIPY‐FL was then additionally incorporated in place of Lys1 of the BODIPY‐558‐containing MBP as a response to the amber codon. Fluorescence measurements with excitation of BODIPY‐FL showed a large change in fluorescence intensity ratio (0.13 to 1.25) upon binding of maltose; this change can be attributed to fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) and maltose‐dependent quenching of BODIPY‐558. These results demonstrate the usefulness of the position‐specific incorporation of fluorescent amino acids in the fluorescence‐based detection of protein functions.
Analysis of the Indanomycin Biosynthetic Gene Cluster from Streptomyces antibioticus NRRL 8167
Authors: Li Chaoxuan , Roege Kathryn E. , Kelly Wendy L.
Published: March 2009

More than meets the I: The biosynthetic gene cluster for indanomycin was identified from Streptomyces antibioticus NRRL 8167. The framework of the indanomycins includes a tetrahydropyran and a central indane ring system. The final module of the indanomycin polyketide synthase possesses an unusual terminal module lacking an integrated thioesterase.

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Metabolites that harbor a core indane scaffold are found to have diverse biological properties. Indanomycin and related pyrroloketoindanes are ionophores and have demonstrated antiparasitic, insecticidal, and antibacterial activities. To understand the biochemical mechanisms guiding formation of the central indane ring, the biosynthetic gene cluster for indanomycin was identified from Streptomyces antibioticus NRRL 8167 and sequenced to ∼80 kb; this revealed five genes encoding subunits of a polyketide synthase (PKS) and 18 other open reading frames. The involvement of this cluster in indanomycin biosynthesis was confirmed by deletion mutagenesis. The indanomycin PKS lacks the expected thioesterase at the carboxy terminus of the final module, and instead appears to house an incomplete module containing an unusual cyclase domain. These findings now enable additional detailed genetic and biochemical studies of the mechanisms guiding the generation of pyrroloketoindanes.
Synthesis of α‐Stereogenic Amides and Ketones by Enantioselective Conjugate Addition of 1,4‐Dicarbonyl But‐2‐enes
Authors: Jiang Zhiyong , Yang Yuanyong , Pan Yuanhang , Zhao Yujun , Liu Hongjun , Tan Choon‐Hong
Published: March 2009

Constructing α‐stereogenic amides and ketones: The highly regioselective and enantioselective conjugate addition of 1,3‐dicarbonyl compounds to 1,4‐dicarbonyl but‐2‐enes has been developed with the chiral bicyclic guanidine as catalyst (ee values up to 97 %; see scheme).

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In the conjugate addition reaction of a α,β‐unsaturated compound, the new stereogenic center is created in the β‐position. In contrast, conjugate addition to 1,4‐dicarbonyl but‐2‐enes will generate an α‐stereogenic center with respect to one of the carbonyl groups, which informally, can be considered as an inversion of normal reactivity patterns or Umpolung. In this paper, we demonstrate that chiral bicyclic guanidine can catalyze the addition of 1,3‐dicarbonyl compounds to 1,4‐dicarbonyl but‐2‐enes [(E)‐4‐oxo‐4‐arylbutenamides and (E)‐4‐oxo‐4‐arylbutenones] with high regioselectivity and enantioselectivity (ee values up to 97 %).