bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High-end spectroscopic diffraction gratings: design and manufacturing
Authors: Glaser Tilman
Published: February 2015

Diffraction gratings are key components for spectroscopic systems. For high-end applications, they have to meet advanced requirements as, e.g., maximum efficiency, lowest possible scattered light level, high numerical aperture, and minimal aberrations. Diffraction gratings are demanded to allow spectrometer designs with highest resolution, a maximal étendue, and minimal stray light, built within a minimal volume. This tutorial is intended to provide an overview of different high-end spectroscopic gratings, their theoretical design and manufacturing technologies.
Micro-optics and lithography simulation are key enabling technologies for shadow printing lithography in mask aligners
Authors: Voelkel Reinhard , Vogler Uwe , Bramati Arianna , Noell Wilfried
Published: February 2015

Mask aligners are lithographic tools used to transfer a pattern of microstructures by shadow printing lithography onto a planar wafer. Contact lithography allows us to print large mask fields with sub-micron resolution, but requires frequent mask cleaning. Thus, contact lithography is used for small series of wafer production. Proximity lithography, where the mask is located at a distance of typically 30–100 μm above the wafer, provides a resolution of approximately 3–5 μm, limited by diffraction effects. Proximity lithography in mask aligners is a very cost-efficient method widely used in semiconductor, packaging and MEMS manufacturing industry for high-volume production. Micro-optics plays a key role in improving the performance of shadow printing lithography in mask aligners. Refractive or diffractive micro-optics allows us to efficiently collect the light from the light source and to precisely shape the illumination light (customized illumination). Optical proximity correction and phase shift mask technology allow us to influence the diffraction effects in the aerial image and to enhance resolution and critical dimension. The paper describes the status and future trends of shadow printing lithography in mask aligners and the decisive role of micro-optics as key enabling technology.
The consequences of Petzval correction in lithographic designs
Authors: Shafer David
Published: February 2015

Several design examples show how correcting Petzval curvature in high NA lithographic designs leads to much of the design complexity. There are two cases in which much simpler designs are possible, neither of them practical with today’s technology. One is that of a curved object and/or image system, where no attempt at all is made to control Petzval curvature. The other case is where a diffractive surface is used in the design, which allows Petzval to be easily corrected in relatively simple designs. A very simple 1.1 NA all-refractive immersion design is shown that uses one diffractive surface.
Structural and morphological properties
of HA-ZnO powders prepared for biomaterials
Authors: Moldovan Marioara , Prodan Doina , Popescu Violeta , Prejmerean Cristina , Saroși Codruta , Saplonţai Monica , Țălu Stefan , Vasile Eugeniu
Published: February 2015

The purpose of this study was to investigate the
structural and morphological properties of hydroxyapatite
– zinc oxide (HA-ZnO) powders prepared to be used
in an endodontic sealer formulation. The HA-ZnO was
synthesized from hydroxyapatite (HA) in the presence
of zinc oxide (ZnO) sol. The starting reagents were CaO,
H3PO4 and a suspention of ZnO (25% in water). Following
precipitation, the obtained sol was subjected to heat
treatment at 110°C, 400°C, 850°C and 1050°C. The study
focused on the influence of the thermal treatment on the
cristallinity of precipitated powders. X-ray diffraction
was used in order to study the structural properties
of the obtained powder. Fourier Transform Infrared
Spectroscopy (FT-IR) was used in order to evaluate the
interactions between HA and ZnO. The morphology of the
samples was studied by Scanning Electron Microscopy
(SEM). Transmission Electron Microscopy and High
Resolution Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM,
HRTEM) were used for the determination of particle size
and fractal analysis. The fractal analysis of images using
the standard box-counting method is presented and the
results are discussed. It was demonstrated that the fractal
dimension analysis is a useful method to quantitatively
describe the complex microstructures and it can reveal the
relation between fractal parameters.
Nanocrystalline ferrites used as adsorbent in the
treatment process of waste waters resulted from
ink jet cartridges manufacturing
Authors: Voda Raluca , Negrea Adina , Lupa Lavinia , Ciopec Mihaela , Negrea Petru , Davidescu Corneliu Mircea , Butnariu Monica
Published: February 2015

Dye pollution in waste waters causes serious
environmental and health risk, legislation problems
and is a serious challenge to environmental scientists.
In this work the treatment of waste waters resulted
from ink jet cartridges manufacturing, using different
nanocrystalline ferrites MIIFe2O4 (MII = Mg, Cu) as
adsorbent materials, has been investigated. The ferrites
were obtained by thermal decomposition at 500°C of
the magnesium and copper ferrioxalate coordination
compounds. The nanocrystalline ferrites powder was
investigated by various methods such as XRD, IR,
SEM and EDX. The discoloration of the waste waters
has been spectrophotometrically studied. The ferrites
could be removed easily after adsorption by using
a magnetic filtration process. The results indicated that
the maximum adsorption efficiency was obtained after
60 min of treatment, magnesium ferrite showing a higher
efficiency than the copper ferrite in the treatment process
of waters resulted from ink jet cartridges manufacturing.
Corps de Siegel
Authors: Gaudron Éric , Rémond Gaël
Published: February 2015

Nous appelons corps de Siegel une extension algébrique du corps des nombres
rationnels sur laquelle un lemme de Siegel vaut. C’est classiquement le cas pour les
corps de nombres mais aussi pour le corps des nombres algébriques d’après Roy–Thunder et Zhang. Nous donnons de nouveaux exemples. Nous montrons aussi qu’il existe des corps qui ne sont pas de Siegel, à savoir les corps de degré infini
qui satisfont la propriété de Northcott, introduite par Bombieri–Zannier. Notre
démarche repose sur l’étude de plusieurs séries de minima successifs associés à un
espace adélique. Les différentes propriétés du corps se lisent sur des quantités
généralisant la constante d’Hermite. Dans le cas des nombres algébriques, nous
calculons leurs valeurs exactes.

We define a Siegel field to be a subfield K of
the algebraic numbers over which a Siegel lemma holds. Known examples
include number fields (classical geometry of numbers) and the field of
algebraic numbers itself (Roy–Thunder and Zhang). We investigate the
situation for other fields. We provide new examples such as real
algebraic numbers or Hilbert class fields towers, as well as
counterexamples. We also relate the Siegel condition to other
properties of K, for example the Northcott property introduced by
Bombieri–Zannier. For this we define several series of successive
minima for an adelic vector space over K, which give rise to diverse
numerical invariants of K (akin to Hermite’s constant). When K is
the field of algebraic numbers, we determine their exact values.
K-theoretic duality for hyperbolic dynamical systems
Authors: Kaminker Jerome , Putnam Ian F. , Whittaker Michael F.
Published: February 2015

The K-theoretic analog of Spanier–Whitehead duality for noncommutative

C
*

{C^{*}}

-algebras is shown to hold for the Ruelle algebras associated to irreducible Smale spaces. This had previously been proved only for shifts of finite type. Implications of this result as well as relations to the Baum–Connes conjecture and other topics are also considered.
Ultrasound-assisted green synthesis of silver nanoparticles and their incorporation in antibacterial cellulose packaging
Authors: Popov Vladimir , Hinkov Ivaylo , Diankov Svetlomir , Karsheva Maria , Handzhiyski Yordan
Published: February 2015

The antimicrobial activity of nanoparticles (NPs) depends of the surface area in contact with microorganisms. The large surface area of the nanoparticles enhances their interaction with the microbes. In this work, a green, simple, rapid, and efficient ultrasound-assisted reduction method for silver nanoparticles (AgNP) synthesis is presented. For the synthesis, an aqueous solution of silver nitrate, ethanol, and ammonia was used. The adopted method can be easily implemented for any kind of scientific or industrial application due to its cost-effective nature. The effect of sonication time on the nanoparticle formation was investigated. Silver nanoparticles were analyzed through transmission electron microscopy and UV-vis spectroscopy. Antimicrobial additives can be incorporated in mass in different matrixes (polymeric or cellulosic), which is a convenient methodology to achieve antimicrobial activity. In this work, silver nanoparticles were incorporated in cellulose using an ultrasonic bath technique. The most important aspect of cellulose containing silver nanoparticles prepared by this method is its high antimicrobial efficiency. The microbiological study was carried out by a standard agar technique. The analysis showed that cellulose with incorporated silver nanoparticles exhibited strong antimicrobial activity against
Functional quantization-based stratified sampling methods
Authors: Corlay Sylvain , Pagès Gilles
Published: February 2015

In this article, we propose several quantization-based stratified sampling methods to reduce the variance of a Monte Carlo simulation. Theoretical aspects of stratification lead to a strong link between optimal quadratic quantization and the variance reduction that can be achieved with stratified sampling. We first put the emphasis on the consistency of quantization for partitioning the state space in stratified sampling methods in both finite and infinite-dimensional cases. We show that the proposed quantization-based strata design has uniform efficiency among the class of Lipschitz continuous functionals.
Then a stratified sampling algorithm based on product functional quantization is proposed for path-dependent functionals of multi-factor diffusions. The method is also available for other Gaussian processes such as Brownian bridge or Ornstein–Uhlenbeck processes. We derive in detail the case of Ornstein–Uhlenbeck processes.
We also study the balance between the algorithmic complexity of the simulation and the variance reduction factor.
Postprandial decrease in LDL-cholesterol in men
with metabolic syndrome
Authors: Skoczyńska Anna , Turczyn Barbara , Wojakowska Anna , Kreczyńska Bogusława , Skoczyńska Marta , Wojtas Kamila
Published: February 2015

Background: In some epidemiological studies,
blood lipids are determined at non-fasting state, which
may impact cardiovascular risk estimation. The aim of
this study was to evaluate postprandial LDL-C changes in
men with newly diagnosed metabolic syndrome (MetSy).
Methods: 36 male patients were examined: 12 men with
and 24 men without MetSy. The fat tolerance test was
performed before and after a three-month hypolipidemic
treatment. Serum lipids were measured using routine
methods, lipid peroxides (LPO) colorimetrically, apoli-
poproteins A-I, B, and hsCRP immunoturbidimetrically.
Results: The postprandial increase in triglycerides was
associated with a decrease in LDL-C and a small decrease
in apo B. In men with MetSy, the mean change in LDL-C
(-19.5 ± 2.3 mg/dl) was greater than in healthy men (-5.7 ±
3.8 mg/dl). All lipid changes (ΔTG, ΔLDL-C and ΔLPO) were
linearly dependent on the postprandial non-LDL-choles-
terol. After three months of hypolipidemic treatment, in
all men with MetSy, the apoB/apoA-I ratio remained the
same as before the therapy. Conclusion: In men diagnosed
with MetSy, postprandial decreases in LDL-cholesterol
may cause underestimation of cardiovascular risk. After
three months of hypolipidemic treatment, there was only
a partial reduction in this risk, as the apoB/apoA-I ratio
remained the same.
Risk factors involved in orofacial cleft
predisposition – review
Authors: Kawalec Agata , Nelke Kamil , Pawlas Krystyna , Gerber Hanna
Published: February 2015

Clefts that occur in children are a special topic.
Avoiding risk factors, and also an early diagnosis of cleft
possibility can result in minimizing or avoiding them.
If on the other hand when clefts occur they require a
long-term, multistage specialized treatment. Etiology of
clefts seems to be related to many factors. Factors such
as genetic, environmental, geographic and even race
factors are important. Identification of risk factors can
lead to prevention and prophylactic behaviors in order
to minimize its occurrence. Exposure to environmental
factors at home and work that lead to cleft predisposition
should not be disregarded. It seems that before planning
a family it would be wise to consult with doctors of different
specializations, especially in high-risk families with
cleft history in order to analyze previous lifestyle. Clefts
are very common in hereditary facial malformations and
are causing a lot of other irregularities in the head and
neck region. In this paper after a brief papers review
authors present socio-geographic, environmental and
also work place related factors that are influencing pregnant
women condition and should be taken under serious
consideration.
Crystal structure of bis(μ2-S-(Z)-3-(hydroxido(phenyl)methylene)-1,1- diphenyl thioureaa-κO,S,S)hexacarbonyl dirhenium(I), C60H52N4O8Re2S2
Authors: Mukiza Janvier , Gerber Thomas I. A. , Hosten Eric C. , Betz Richard
Published: February 2015

C60H52N4O8Re2S2, monoclinic, P21/c (no. 14), a = 24.2146(6) Å, b = 8.9277(2) Å, c = 31.2847(7) Å, β = 118.864(2)°, V = 5923.1 Å3, Z = 4, Rgt(F) = 0.0360, wRref(F2) = 0.0786, T = 200 K.
Viscosity of Se–Te glass-forming system
Authors: Koštál Petr , Málek Jiří
Published: February 2015

This work is focused on viscosity of chalcogenide system Se–Te. Viscosity values of four glass-forming compositions in this system (containing 5, 10, 20 and 30 at.% of tellurium) were measured by penetration and parallel-plate method in the region of undercooled melt and glass. These results are combined with literature data for melt region. The kinetic fragility and viscosity glass transition temperature values obtained by different methods are calculated from measured data.
Technetium sulfide – formation kinetics, structure and particle speciation
Authors: German Konstantin E. , Shiryaev Andrey A. , Safonov Alexey V. , Obruchnikova Yana A. , Ilin Viktor A. , Tregubova Varvara E.
Published: February 2015

Technetium sulfide formation kinetics was studied in the pH range 8 − 12 in presence of Na2S and phosphate buffer
solution. The conditions for separation of Tc sulfide micro and nanoparticles were found with ultramicrocentifugation and the
values of Tc sulfide solubility were demonstrated to be dependent on the Na2S concentration as
C(Tc3S10+x
) =− 9E − 5 ln [Na2S] − 2 · 10
–5 M. The composition of Tc sulfide precipitate was
elucidated with EXAFS, RBS and chemical analyses as Tc3S10+x
or [Tc3(μ3 − S)(S2)3(S2)3/3]
n
in
agreement with recent Lukens data.
Funktionalisierung und Vernetzung von Poly(silylenmethylenen) Functionalization and Cross-Linking of Poly(silylenemethylenes)
Authors: Uhlig Wolfram
Published: February 2015

Functionalized 1,3-disilacyclobutanes (RSiX-CH2)2 have been prepared by protodesilylation of aminosubstituted 1,3-disilacyclobutanes with triflic acid and by conversions with nucleo­ philes. The ring-opening polymerisations of these compounds lead to novel high molecular weight poly(silylenemethylenes), which are characterized by a linear structure and alternating silicon and carbon atoms in the main chain. The hydrosilylation reaction between the poly(silylenemethylenes) (RSiH-CH2)n and (RSiVi-CH2)n results in a polymer network which may serve as an interesting preceramic material. The structures of the polymers were proven by NMR spectroscopy (29Si, 13C, 1H).
Formation and Crystal Structures of the Hydrates of 18-Crown-6 [1]
Authors: Albert Antje , Mootz Dietrich
Published: February 2015

The melting diagram of the system 18-crown-6/water has been set up and the existence of four binary hydrates confirmed. Crystal structures have been determined for three of these, in addition to that for the hexahydrate already published. The hydrates are monoclinic, a tetrahydrate (previously reported as a 4.5-hydrate) with space group P21/c and Z = 2 formula units per unit cell, an octahydrate with I2/a and Z = 4, and a dodecahydrate with P21/n and Z= 2. In each structure the crown ether molecule has the (pseudo) D3d conformation common for many of its complexes, and is immediately hydrogen-bonded by a group of four water molecules in a similar, characteristic pattern. In the tetrahydrate, with one of the waters disordered, the total connectivity is that of a 1D chain, while the overall structures of the octa-and dodecahydrate are 3D networks. Four of the six independent water molecules in the dodecahydrate are linked with each other into a rare 2D ice-like layer.
Staphyloferrin B, a Citrate Siderophore of Ralstonia eutropha
Authors: Münzinger Maik , Taraz Kambiz , Budzikiewicz Herbert
Published: February 2015

The structure and stereochemistry of the siderophore isolated from the culture medium of Ralstonia eutropha (formerly Alcaligenes eutrophus) could be elucidated as staphyloferrin B by spectroscopic methods and chemical degradation. The relationship of the three species of the new genus Ralstonia is reflected in the observation that all three form citrate sidero-phores.
Flavonoids as Chemotaxonomic Markers for Erythroxylum ulei
Authors: Johnson Emanuel L. , Schmidt Walter F.
Published: February 2015

Leaf extracts of Erythroxylum ulei O. E. Schulz, produced six O-conjugated flavonoids. Three of the flavonoid aglycones were isoflavones, two were isoflavanones and the remainder a flavonol (quercetin). The major glycosides of these flavonols included mono-and dirham-nosides, mono-glucosides and galactosides with either 3̕ 4̕, or 7 linkage or a combination thereof. The two isoflavanones, in addition to being glycosylated, possessed a methyl group at position 2 of the C-ring. These flavonoids may be used as chemotaxonomic markers for the taxon.
Molecular Dynamics Modellization and Simulation of Water Diffusion through Plant Cutin
Authors: Matas Antonio , Heredia Antonio
Published: February 2015

A theoretical molecular modelling study has been conducted for cutin, the biopolyester that forms the main structural component of the plant cuticle. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, extended over several ten picoseconds, suggests that cutin is a moderately flexible netting with motional constraints mainly located at the cross-link sites of functional ester groups. This study also gives structural information essentially in accordance with previously reported experimental data, obtained from X -ray diffraction and nuclear magnetic resonance experiments. MD calculations were also performed to simulate the diffusion of water mole­cules through the cutin biopolymer. The theoretical analysis gives evidence that water perme­ation proceedes by a “hopping mechanism”. Coefficients for the diffusion of the water molecules in cutin were obtained from their mean-square displacements yielding values in good agreement with experimental data.
Effects of Antifungal Compounds on Conidial Germination and on the Induction of Appressorium Formation of Magnaporthe grisea
Authors: Eilbert Frank , Thines Eckhard , Anke Heidrun
Published: February 2015

Appressorium formation in germinating conidia of Magnaporthe grisea was induced on a hydrophilic (noninductive) surface by antifungal compounds. Respiratory inhibitors or un­ coupling agents such as strobilurins, antimycin A , myxothiazol, rotenone, pterulone A , and oligomycin A were particularly effective whereas sodium cyanide had no effect. Cyclosporin A was effective only at high concentrations. These differentiation-inducing effects were only observed at subfungicidal concentrations at which more than 50% of the germinating conidia formed appressoria. Cycloheximide, nystatin, amphotericin B, and papulacandin A did not induce appressoria. Different strains of M. grisea displayed the same overall response to the inhibitors, varying merely in the percentage of appressoria formed. A combination of the respiratory inhibitors with 2-phenyl-4H -1-benzopyran-4-one (flavone), diphenyleneiodonium (DPI), or salicylhydroxamic acid (SHAM), compounds which interfere with the cyanide-resistant respiration, resulted in a higher sensitivity of the strains towards the respiratory inhibitors, but had no effect on appressorium formation.
Further Studies on Cytostatic Activity of Alkoxymethyl Purine and Pyrimidine Acyclonucleosides
Authors: Modrzejewska Hanna , Dramiński Marcin , Zgit-Wróblewska Anna , Greger Janusz
Published: February 2015

The influence of 14 acyclonucleosides1, derivatives of adenine, guanine, uracil and thymine on the phosphorylation of dAdo, dGuo, dCyd and dThd occurring in the cytosol of growing amelanotic melanoma transplanted to Syrian hamsters, as well as on inhibition of tumor growth were studied. From among the studied ACNs eight were tested earlier (Modrzejewska et al., 1996, The influence of alkoxymethyl purine and pyrimidine acyclonucleosides on growth inhibition of Kirkman-Robbins hepatoma and possible mechanism of their cytostatic activity, Z. Naturforch. 51c, 75 - 80 ) ; from among the newly synthesized ACNs, 1,3-N, N-diallyloxymethylthymine (AMT2), 1-N-allyloxymethyl-5,6-tetramethyIeneuracil (AMUTM ), and tested previously 1-N-allyloxymethylthymine (AMT1), administered i.p. in a dose of 0.2 mmol /kg body weight reduce the tumor mass from 0.98 g to 0.64 g ± 0.11 g (i.e. 35% ± 12% ). 48 hours after i.p. administration of the mentioned ACNs in the same dose a reduction of tumor mass is accompanied by the inhibition of dAMP, dGMP and dTM P synthesis. AMT1 inhibits dThd phosphorylation from 6.2 to 4.22; AMT2 suppresses dAdo, dGuo and dThd phosphorylation by, correspondingly, from 2.8 to 1.7, from 10.8 to 7.5 and from 6.2 to 4.2; AMUTM depresses dAMP synthesis from 2.8 to 1.6 (all data: μmol of 2’dNMP formed per mg of protein per min. × 10-4 ). None of the 14 studied acyclonucleosides influences dCMP synthesis. In vivo, after hydration of allyloxymethyl group to hydroxypropoxymethyl residue (having -CH2OH group), AMT1, AMT2 and AMUTM undergo phosphorylation to corresponding triphosphates. Phosphorylated ACNs are not incorporated into tumor DNA, however they inhibit dAdo, dGuo and dThd incorporation into DNA. It is concluded that ACN triphosphates are not substrates for DNA polymerase but, competing with dATP dGTP and dTTP, inhibit incorporation of these 2’dNTP into DNA and, in consequence, reduce tumor growth, which is presumed to be the main mechanism of cytostatic activity of the studied ACNs.
Study of the Topical Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Achillea ageratum on Chronic and Acute Inflammation Models
Authors: Gómez M. A. , Sáenz M. T. , García M. D. , Fernández M. A.
Published: February 2015

We have produced a chloroform extract from Achillea which includes stigmasterol and sitosterol. By comparing it with the pure compounds an anti-inflammatory effect (with mouse ears) is assumed.

The topical anti-inflammatory effect of the chloroform extract from Achillea ageratum (Asteraceae)and of stigmasterol and β-sitosterol, isolated of this extract has been evaluated, against to 12-0-tetradecanoylphorbol acetate (TPA )-induced mouse ear edema, using simple (acute model) and multiple applications (chronic model) of the phlogistic agent. Myeloperoxydase activity also was studied in the inflamed ears.

In the acute model the extract exerted a dose-dependent effect. All the doses assayed (1, 3 and 5 mg/ear) significantly reduced the edema (50% , 66% and 82 % , respectively). The isolated sterols stigmasterol and β-sitosterol (with doses of 0.5 mg/ear) had similar effect as the extract with doses of 1 and 3 mg (59% and 65% respectively).

In the chronic model the anti-inflammatory effect generally was a more moderate one. The highest dose of the extract decreased the edema reduction to 26% with the highest dose of the extract applied. With the compounds the effect decreased to 36% with stigmasterol, and 40.6% with β-sitosterol.

Myeloperoxydase activity (MPO ) was reduced by the extract and the compounds in the acute model, however, in the chronic edema, the enzyme inhibition was very weak with all treatments even with the standard substance.

These results indicate that the chloroform extract of Achillea ageratum and some of the its components stigmasterol and β-sitosterol are more effective as topical anti-inflammatory agents in acute than in the chronic process and their action is markedly influenced by the inhibition of neutrophil migration into inflamed tissue.
Sterol Composition of the Black Sea Sponges Hymeniacidon sanguinea (Grant) and Halichondria panicea (Pallas)
Authors: Elenkov Ivayh , Popov Simeon , Andreev Stoitze
Published: February 2015

The sterol composition of Hymeniacidon sanguinea and Halichondria panicea from the Black Sea was investigated. Both sponges contain similar mixtures of stanols and of dietary Δ5-sterols. Main sterols appeared to be C27-sterols, which could be connected with a common diet for the both sponges. Saturated short side chain sterols have been found in Hymeniaci­don sanguinea. Three of them were novel for sponges. A possibility for the transformation of some dietary sterols into stands is discussed.
Ecto-Phosphatase Activities on the Cell Surface of the Amastigote Forms of Trypanosoma cruzi
Authors: Meyer-Fernandes José Roberto , Silva-Neto Mario Alberto da , Soares Mirna dos Santos , Fernandes Eloise , Vercesi Anibal Eugênio , Oliveira Mécia Maria de
Published: February 2015

Live Trypanosoma cruzi amastigotes hydrolyzed p-nitrophenylphosphate (PNPP), phos-pho-amino-acids and 32P-casein under physiologically appropriate conditions. PNPP was hy­drolysed at a rate of 80 nmol ·mg -1 ·h -1 in the presence of 5 mм MgCl2, pH 7.2 at 30 °C. In the absence of Mg2+ the activity was reduced 40% and we call this basal activity. At saturating concentration of PNPP, half-maximal PNPP hydrolysis was obtained with 0.22 mм MgCl2· Ca2+ had no effect on the basal activity, could not substitute Mg2+ as an activator and in contrast inhibited the PNPP hydrolysis stimulated by Mg2+ (I50 = 0.43 mм ) . In the absence of Mg2+ (basal activity) the stimulating half concentration (S0. 5) for PNPP was 1.57 mм , while at saturating MgCl2 concentrations the corresponding S0.5 for PNPP for Mg2+-stimulated phosphatase activity (difference between total minus basal phosphatase activity) was 0.99 mм . The Mg-dependent PNPP hydrolysis was strongly inhibited by sodium fluoride (NaF), vanadate and Zn2+ but not by tartrate and levamizole. The Mg-independent basal phosphatase activity was insensitive to tartrate, levamizole as well NaF and less inhibited by vanadate and Zn2+. Intact amastigotes were also able to hydrolyse phosphoserine, phos-phothreonine and phosphotyrosine but only the phosphotyrosine hydrolysis was stimulated by MgCl2 and inhibited by CaCl2 and phosphotyrosine was a competitive inhibitor of the PNPP hydrolysis stimulated by Mg2+. The cells were also able to hydrolyse 32P-casein phosphorylated on serine and threonine residues but only in the presence of MgCl2. These results indicate that in the amastigote form of T. cruzi there are at least two ectophosphatase activities, one of which is Mg2+ dependent and can dephosphorylate phospho-aminoacids and phosphoproteins under physiological conditions.
Notes: Activation of Hematoporphyrin in Alternating Magnetic Field: Possible Implications for Cancer Treatment
Authors: Babincová Melánia , Sourivong Phoumyphone , Leszczynska Danuta
Published: February 2015

A new mechanism of cell damage by alternating mag­netic field with hematoporphyrin is described. C6 gli­oblastoma cell suspensions were exposed to an alternat­ing magnetic field with frequency 180 kHz up to 60 min in the presence of hematoporphyrin in H2O and in D2O . The results presented suggest that an alternating mag­netic field is able to activate hematoporphyrin, and this method may be a basis for cancer treatment.
Pyrrolizidine Alkaloids from Echium rauwolfii and Echium horridum (Boraginaceae)
Authors: El-Shazly Assem , Abdel-All M. , Tei Andreas , Wink Michael
Published: February 2015

Echimidine was isolated from Echium rauwolfii and Echium horridum and identified by MS, 1H-and 13C NMR as a major alkaloid. In addition, structures of 12 minor alkaloids were inferred from GLC and GLC-MS analyses: 7-angeloylretronecine, 7-tigloylretronecine, lycopsamine, 7-acetyllycopsamine, uplandicine, 7-angeloyllycopsamine, 7-tigloyllycopsamine, tigloyl isomer of echimidine, 7-angeloyl-9-(2-methylbutyryl)retronecine, 7-tigloyl-9-(2-methylbutyryl)retronecine, 7-angeloyl-9-(2,3-dihydroxybutyryl)retronecine, and 7-tigloyl-9-(2,3-dihydroxybutyryl)retronecine. Both species had similar alkaloid profiles. Alkaloid extracts exhibited antibacterial effects with a MIC of 1.7 mg/ml in E. coli. Microscopic examination of E. coli treated with different subtoxic alkaloid concentrations (13-52 μg/ml) revealed extensive filamentation.
Phytotoxic and Photosynthetic Activities of Maduramicin and Maduramicin Methyl Ester
Authors: Gutiérrez-Lugo Maria Teresa , Lotina-Hennsen Blas , Farrés Amelia , Sánchez Sergio , Mata Rachel
Published: February 2015

The polyether antibiotic maduramicin and its methyl ester derivative inhibited photophos­ phorylation and proton uptake in isolated spinach chloroplasts. Both compounds also en­ hanced basal and phosphorylating electron transport and stimulated Mg2+-dependent AT­ Pase activity, therefore, they behave as uncouplers of photophosphorylation being the methyl ester derivative more potent than the parent compound. On the other hand, maduramicin inhibited germination and radicle elongation of several crop and weed species. In addition, the antibiotic caused phytotoxic injury and fresh weight reduction to 4-to-6 week old seed­ lings of two weed and two crop species when applied at 10-4 ᴍ by foliar application in the greenhouse.
Molecular Cloning and Spatial Expression of an ApL1 cDNA for the Large Subunit of ADP-Glucose Pyrophosphorylase from Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Kleszkowski Leszek A. , Sokolov Lubomir N. , Luo Cheng , Villand Per
Published: February 2015

A cDNA, A p L 1a , corresponding to a homologue of the large subunit of ADP-glucose pyrophosphorylase (AG Pase), has been isolated/characterised by screening a cDNA library prepared from leaves of Arabidopsis thaliana, followed by rapid amplification of cDNA 3′-ends (3′-RACE). Within the 1685 nucleotide-long sequence (excluding polyA tail), an open reading frame encodes a protein of 522 amino acids (aa), with a calculated molecular weight of 57.7 kDa. The derived aa sequence does not contain any discernible transit peptide cleavage site motif, similarly to two other recently sequenced full-length Arabidopsis homo-logues for AGPase, and shows ca. 58–78 % identity to homologous proteins from other plants/tissues. The corresponding gene was found (rosette and stem leaves, stems, flowers and fruits), consistent with its critical role in starch synthesis in
Sex Attractant of the Rosy Russian Gypsy Moth (Lymantria mathura Moore)
Authors: Oliver James E. , Dickens Joseph C. , Zlotina Marina , Mastro Victor C. , Yurchenko Galina I.
Published: February 2015

We report identification of the sex attractant of the rosy Russian gypsy moth, Lymantria mathura Moore. Two compounds, Z,Z,Z-3,6,9-nonadecatriene 1 and its monoepoxide Z,Z-(9S,10R)-9,10-epoxy-3,6-nonadecadiene 4a, have been identified from abdominal tip ex­ tracts of female moths based on coupled gas chromatography/electroantennogram detector responses and dose response curves. Single cell recordings showed that only one of the mo­ noepoxide enantiomers (S,R) was active. In field tests, both the (S,R)-monoepoxide and the racemate were active. This type of pheromone system, unusual for a Lymantriid, is more typical of those found in the families Arctiidae, Noctuidae and Geometridae.
Study of Propolis by High Temperature High Resolution Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry
Authors: dos Santos Pereira Alberto , de Souza Ramos Mônica Freiman , Poças Elisa Suzana Carneiro , Dias Patricia Castro Moreira , dos Santos Elisabete Pereira , da Silva Joaquim Fernando Mendes , Cardoso Jari Nobrega , de Aquino Neto Francisco Radler
Published: February 2015

The underivatized hexane and acetone extracts of two propolis samples (from Brazil’s southwest) were analyzed by HT-HRGC (high temperature high resolution gas chromatogrphy) and HT-HRGC coupled to mass spectrometry (HT-HRGC-MS). Several compounds, including flavonoid aglycones, phenolic acids and high molecular weight compounds could be readily characterized in the crude extracts by HTHRGC-MS. HTHRGC and HTHRGC-MS were shown to be quick and informative tools for rapid analysis of crude extracts without need for prior derivatization and purification.
Phytochemical, Morphological, and Biological Investigations of Propolis from Central Chile
Authors: Valcic Susanne , Montenegro Gloria , Mujica Ana-Maria , Avila Guacolda , Franzblau Scott , Singh Maya P. , Maiese William M. , Timmermann Barbara N.
Published: February 2015

Propolis from Central Chile was investigated for its plant origin by microscopical analysis of pollen grains and leaf fragments found in the sample. The pollen grains that appear with significant higher frequency in the sample corresponded to four native and two introduced species, whereas leaf fragments corresponded to four native species. Seventeen phenolic com­ pounds that belong to the phenylpropane, benzaldehyde, dihydrobenzofuran, or benzopyran classes, were isolated from an organic extract that was found to have a moderate growth inhibitory activity against Mycobacterium avium , M. tuberculosis, and two strains of Staphylococcus aureus. The components responsible for activity were determined.
Antibacterial and Cytotoxic Natural and Synthesized Hydroquinones from Sponge Ircinia spinosula
Authors: Mihopoulos Nikos , Vagias Constantinos , Chinou Ioanna , Roussakis Christos , Scoullos Michael , Harvala Catherine , Roussis Vassilios
Published: February 2015

In order to check the structure-activity relationship and find more potent derivatives of the natural products 1 and 2 obtained from sponge Ircinia spinosula, a series of oxidation, hydrogenation, acetylation and methylation derivatives was prepared. All compounds (natural and synthetic ones) were screened for their cytotoxic and antibacterial activities. The biological studies showed a wide range of antibacterial activity even though only 2 and 2d showed a moderate cytotoxicity against the clone C98. The oxidation of the hydroquinone to quinone and the hydrogenation of the side-chain increased the antibacterial effect of the molecules.
A Joint Effect of Cationic and Anionic Amphiphilic Compounds on the Desorption of Calcium Ions from Lecithin Liposome Membranes
Authors: Kuczera Janina , Krai Teresa E. , Podolak Marian , Przestalski Stanisław
Published: February 2015

The aim of the work was to determine the synergism and antagonism of mixtures of the cationic amphiphilic compounds: N-benzyl-N,N-dimethyl-N-tetradecylammonium chloride (BD TA), N-benzyl-N,N-dimethyl-N-dodecylammonium chloride (BDDA), N-methyl-N-te-tradecyl-morpholinium bromide (MTM), N,N,N-trimethyl-N-tetradecylammonium bromide (TMTA) and those of tripropyltin chloride in a mixture with amphiphilic anionic compounds (a homologous series of sodium alkylsulfonates with n = 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12 and 14 alkyl carbon atoms) in the process of calcium ion desorption from liposome lecithin membranes. Radioactive labels and spin labels were used in the investigations.

All compounds studied caused an increase in the kinetic rate constant of calcium ion desorption from liposome membranes with increasing concentration. In case of mixtures containing cationic and anionic compounds both synergism and antagonism were observed. It was shown that the regulatory effect depended on the properties of both cationic and anionic compounds. A mixture of the most effective cationic compound (BDTA) with each of the anionic compounds decreased the effect. Mixtures of the remaining ammonium com­ pounds with sodium alkylsulfonates produced both synergism and antagonism. Anionic com­ pounds with short chains increased, and with longer chains decreased efficiency, while com­ pounds with comparable chains caused totally blocked desorption. A mixture of an organometallic compound having three short chains with anionic compounds gave a reversed effect: short-chain compounds caused a decreased and those with long-chains -increased efficiency of tripropyltin chloride.

Studies with spin labels supported the conclusion that the most important factor responsi­ ble for the regulatory effect is the molecular shape of the complexes formed in a mixture of both groups of compounds -a factor that determines membrane packing density
Strobilurin N and Two Metabolites Related to Chorismic Acid from the Fruit Bodies of Mycena crocata (Agaricales)
Authors: Buchanan Malcolm S. , Steglich Wolfgang , Anke Timm
Published: February 2015

Strobilurin N (1), a new member of the strobilurin family of antibiotics, has been isolated from the toadstool Mycena crocata, together with dehydrochorismic acid lactone (5) and 3-[1-carboxyvinyl)oxy]benzoic acid (6), which are closely related to chorismic acid (10). Their structures were determined mainly by 1H and 13C NMR spectroscopy. Interestingly, strobi­lurin N is the first strobilurin without antifungal activity
Organisation of Xanthophyll-Lipid Membranes Studied by Means of Specific Pigment Antisera, Spectrophotometry and Monomolecular Layer Technique Lutein versus Zeaxanthin
Authors: Gruszecki Wieslaw I. , Sujak Agnieszka , Strzalka Kazimierz , Radunz Alfons , Schmid Georg H.
Published: February 2015

The structure of the xanthophyll pigments lutein and zeaxanthin differs in the position of one double bond and refers to one of the ionon rings. Specific antibodies to zeaxanthin were used to analyse the localisation and orientation of these two xanthophyll pigments in lipid membranes formed with egg yolk lecithin. Bimolecular and monomolecular layers were used. Antibody-antigen interaction was demonstrated and analysed by the bathochromic shift of the absorption spectra of both pigments and by the increase of light-scattering of the pig- mented liposome suspension. It appeared that the extent of the spectral effects accompanying the interaction of the antiserum to zeaxanthin, injected to the liposome suspension which was pigmented with either zeaxanthin or lutein, was different in spite of their similar molecular structures. The results are interpreted in terms of a localisation and distribution of lutein, in the hydrophobic phase of liposomes within two essentially different pigment pools, one oriented horizontally and the other vertically with respect to the membrane plane. This inter- pretation is supported by the analysis of isotherms of the compression of monomolecular layers of lutein and zeaxanthin formed at the air-water interface and of mixed xanthophyll- lipid monolayers as well as by analysis of the penetration of antibody proteins dissolved in the subphase into the mixed xanthophyll-lipid films.
Influence of Climatic Factors on Annual Rings of Conifers
Authors: Ots Katri , Rauk Jtiri
Published: February 2015

Relationships of the width of annual rings of 75-85-year old Pinns sylvestris L. and Picea abies (L.) Karst, with average monthly temperature, amount of precipitation and a complex climatic indicator developed on their basis was studied against the background of pollution load in the zone influenced by a cement plant and in a control area. Multiple regression analysis (equations with two and three independent variables) showed a significant correlation between precipitation and temperatures with increment, especially for pine: however, the prediction capability of the models is modest, describing usually 35-40% of the variation in radial increment. The calculations suggest that precipitation amounts are more important and temperature parameters less important and can be replaced by one another in the models. A direct correlation with the pollution load can be observed: at probability (P) near zero the coefficients for precipitation were the highest (0.45-0.51) in the area strongly affected by the cement plant and the lowest (0.31 -0.35) in the weakly affected and control areas. In case of spruce shortage of air humidity during summer months was important for increment, especially so in the heavily polluted area.
High Activity of Binuclear Cobalt(II) Complex for Ethylene Evolution from 1-AminocycIopropane-1-carboxylic Acid in the Presence of Hydrogen Peroxide
Authors: Kobayashi Teruyuki , Sasaki Yumiko , Akamatsu Tetsuya , Ishii Toshihiro , Oda Yoshiaki , Masuda Hideki
Published: February 2015

The binuclear Co(II) and Mn(II) complexes with H5(HXTA). where H5(HXTA) repre­sents N,N′-(2-hydroxy-5-methyl-1,3-xylylene)bis(N-carboxymethylglycine), induced a strong ethylene evolution from 1-aminocyclopropane-l-carboxylic acid (ACC) in the presence of hydrogen peroxide, whereas activities of the corresponding Fe(III), Ni(II), and V(III) com­plexes were found negligible. Based on spectroscopic results and mass-spectral data it is proposed that a peroxide adduct of binuclear Co(II) (and Mn(II)) complex with η1-coordina­tion mode interacts with ACC, which is chelated to a binuclear cobalt complex leading to facile oxidative degradation of ACC and to evolution of ethylene.
Synergism Between Ethanolic Extract of Propolis (EEP) and Anti-Tuberculosis Drugs on Growth of Mycobacteria
Authors: Scheller Stan , Dworniczak Szymon , Waldemar-Klimmek Krystian , Rajca Marek , Tomczyk Anna , Shani Jashovam
Published: February 2015

Ethanolic extract of propolis exerts a strong anti-bacterial activity, in addition to antifungal. antiviral and antiprotozoal properties. In previous studies from these laboratories we have demonstrated that the intensity of the bactericidal activity of EEP is correlated with the virulence of the mycobacteria tested, and that EEP has a synergistic effect with antibiotics on growth of staphylococcus aureus. In the present study we investigated whether the same synergism and correlation exists between EEP and some anti-tuberculosis drugs on tubercu­losis mycobacteria with different degrees of virulence. Six standard strains and 11 wild strains of mycobacteria were exposed for 30 days to EEP, with or without streptomycin, rifamycin, isoniazid or ethambutol. Out of the 17 strains, 8 were resistant to at least two standard antibiotics, and were considered “multi-resistant strains”. The rest were either susceptible or resistant to only one of the antimycobacterial drugs. Antagonism was recorded only in one case, when Staphylococcus aureus were treated with a mixture of EEP and ethambutol, sug­gesting that a chemical bond could have been formed between this anti-tuberculosis anti­ biotic and one of the active components of the ethanol extract of propolis.
Detection of the Production of Reactive Oxygen Species by Neutrophils in Whole Blood: Modulation by Adamantanes and Triggering by Fe3+-ions
Authors: Schempp Harald , Albrecht-Goepfert Evelyn , Elstner Erich F.
Published: February 2015

Using indicators for the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) such as the a) OH- radical type (α-keto-γ-methiolbutyric acid. KMB) or b) hypochlorous acid (1-amino-cyclo- propvl-1-carboxylic acid, ACC) neutrophil activities can be both quantified and differentiated in whole blood via ethene production, Ethene is trapped in the head space of blood samples incubated in the presence of zymosan and the respective indicators, KMB or ACC. This procedure allows the detection of effects of aminoadamantanes (AAD) such as amantadine or memantine, compounds frequently used for the treatment of Morbus Parkinson and Morbus Alzheimer. In this report we describe the detection of OH-type oxidants produced by isolated activated neutrophils and whole blood. Immunomodulatory activities of AAD are deduced from the following observations: AAD-stimulated ethene formation from (KMB) as an indicator for production of OH′-type reactive oxygen species by zymosan-stimulated neutrophils (“respiratory burst”) is detectable with isolated neutrophils. In whole blood, how- ever, this reaction is only measurable in the presence of Fe-EDTA-complex. Stimulating effects of AAD are observed within a concentration range between 10-8 and 10-4 m with a maximum at 1 μΜ. Ethene release from (ACC) as indicator for the myeloperoxidase reaction after degranulation is not stimulated by AAD but inhibited at concentrations higher than 100 μΜ. The presented results suggest that submicromolar concentrations of AAD only stimulate the respiratory burst and apparently not degranulation of zymosan-prestimulated poly- morphonuclear neutrophils (PMN).
Sex Pheromone of the Brazilian Apple Leafroller, Bonagota cranaodes Meyrick (Lepidoptera, Tortricidae)
Authors: Eiras Alvaro E. , Kovaleski Adalecio , Vilela Evaldo F. , Chambon Jean P. , Unelius C. Rikard , Borg-Karlson Anna-Karin , Liblikas Ilme , Mozuraitise Raimondas , Bengtsson Marie , Witzgall Peter
Published: February 2015

The female sex pheromone of Bonagota (=Phthteochroa) cranaodes (Meyrick) is a blend of (E,Z)-3,5-dodecadienyl ajcetate (E3,Z5-12:Ac) and (Z)-9-hexadecenyl acetate (Z9-16:Ac) according to analysis of pheromone - gland extracts and field trapping in apple orchards. This is the first time that E3,Z5-12:Ac has been identified as a lepidopteran sex pheromone. Traps baited with 100 μg E3,Z5-12:Ac were attractive over 15 weeks in the field and were as effective as traps baited with virgin females. Addition of Z9-16:Ac to E3,Z5-12:Ac at ratio of 1:10 had a significantly increase of male moths. The addition of the Z,E and Z,Z isomers to rubber septa baited with E3,Z5-12:Ac did not modify B. cranaodes male attraction, but 10% of EE enhanced trap catch.
16α,19-Diacetoxy-ewf-kaurane, a New Natural Diterpene from the Exudate of Ozothamnus scutellifolius (Asteraceae)
Authors: Arriaga-Giner Fco. Javier , Rumbero Angel , Wollenweber Eckhard
Published: February 2015

Leaf and stem exudate of Ozothamnus scutellifolius, previously reported to contain 21 flavonoid aglycones, was now investigated for its terpenoid composition. Seven structurally related diterpenoids were identified. One of them, 16a,19-diacetoxy-enf-kaurane, is a novel natural product.
Some Lichen Products Have Antimicrobial Activity
Authors: Garcia Rowe J. , Garcia Gimenez M. D. , Saenz Rodriguez M. T.
Published: February 2015

Antimicrobial activity in some lichens from south Spain has been studied. Some lichenical substances are also identified. The structures of all compounds were elucidated by physical, spectral and chemical methods. A very high activity against Gram-positive bacteria has been observed in lichens containing usnic acid.