bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Soil Fertility Mapping using Geo-spatial Technique for Khapradih Farm, DKS College of Agriculture and Research Station, Bhatapara, Chhattisgarh, India
Authors: Ratre Gulshan Kumar , Thakur D. S. , Ayam G.P. , Savu Rama Mohan
Published: July 2024

The present study aimed to assess various chemical properties and available macro and micronutrients in the soil. Collection of 101 geo-referenced soil surface samples at 100-meter intervals of the Khapradih Farm of DKS College of Agriculture & Research Station, district Balodabazar-Bhatapara of Chhattisgarh state and examined in the laboratory for pH, electrical conductivity (EC), organic carbon (OC), and available macro-nutrients (N, P, K, S) and micro- nutrients (Fe, Mn, Cu, Zn, B). The results showed that the soil was generally neutral in pH, with a range of 5.7 to 7.6. The electrical conductivity indicated non-saline, varying from 0.11 to 0.26 dSm-1. Available nutrients were categorized as low, medium, or high based on nutrient index values. The study revealed that the soil in the area had low levels of available N and S, medium levels of available P and K, and high levels of available Fe, Mn, and Cu. Zn was found to be in the medium category, while B was low. Significant correlations were observed between various physico-chemical properties and available macro and micro nutrients. Using ArcGIS 10.4.1, thematic maps were created, representing the spatial distribution of soil properties and nutrient status. Based on these findings, fertilizer recommendations were developed for major crops grown in the area, resulting in enhanced crop productivity. The study concludes that GPS and GIS-based tools are valuable for soil fertility mapping, monitoring, and site-specific nutrient management, leading to sustainable and optimal crop yields.
Evaluation of the Performance of Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus l. Moench) Genotypes for Growth, Yield, and Quality Parameters
Authors: Veeresh  , Y. Pampanna , Diwan J. R. , H Ashok, , Patil M. G.
Published: July 2024

The present investigation was carried out to evaluate the performance of okra genotypes for growth, yield and quality parameters. Okra is often cross-pollinated and is grown primarily for its fruits, which have various culinary uses. Tender fruits are commonly boiled or used in sliced and fried dishes. Okra fruits are also dried in the sun, canned, or dehydrated for preservation during the off-season. The study was carried out at New Orchard, Main Agricultural Research Station, UAS, Raichur, during late Kharif 2021-22 using thirty-one genotypes (including the check variety Arka Anamika) and laid out in Randomized Block Design (RBD) with three replications. The analysis of variance revealed significant differences (p < 0.05) among genotypes for all traits studied. Genotype OPL-2127 recorded the highest plant height (96.52 cm), stem girth (14.26 mm), number of leaves per plant (23.20), leaf area index (3.08), number of nodes per plant (13.60), chlorophyll content (59.61 SPAD readings), fruit length (18.69 cm), fruit yield per plant (293.53 g), fruit yield per hectare (16.4 t) and it is found to be superior over the other okra genotypes under the study. The highest fruit girth (41.36 mm) was noted in the genotypes OPL-2108. The genotype OPL-2119 recorded the minimum number of days to 50 per cent flowering (38.00) which indicates the earliness of the genotypes. OPL-2023 recorded the highest fibre content (16.09 %). The genotypes OPL-2127, OPL-2121, OPL-2116, OPL-2115 and OPL-2113 were found to be superior okra genotypes for yield and quality and they can be used in future breeding and crop improvement program.
Exploring Natural Solutions: Botanical Approaches for Controlling Early Blight in Tomato Plants under Laboratory Conditions
Authors: Dole Priyanka , Chavan Digvijay Rajaram , Joshi Mukta , Mhaske Shriram Mahadev
Published: July 2024

Around the world, Alternaria solani is the culprit behind the deadly and devastating early blight of tomatoes. To control the mycelial growth of A. solani in this investigation, a concentration of 10% for each plant extract was examined using the poison food technique. In comparison to the control, the pathogen mycelial growth was greatly suppressed by all examined extracts. With a 90.54% inhibition at 10% concentration, garlic clove extract proved to be the most successful of the extracts. Other extracts that showed promise were neem leaf extract (87.83%), ginger (83.78%), eucalyptus (75.67%), bael (71.67%), onion bulb extract (68.67%), and ashwagandha (63.51%). On the other hand, with a mycelial growth of 35 mm and 52.70% inhibition, lantana proved to be the least successful. After seven days of incubation at 24°C, the chemical fungicide mancozeb proved to be the most effective overall, offering a 93.24% inhibition at a 0.25% dose. Chemicals pose health dangers even though farmers use them extensively to control tomato rot. This study provides useful information for farmers by highlighting appropriate plant extracts as less risky substitutes for treating tomato early blight.
An Economic Analysis of Credit Utilization Pattern and Credit Gap for Grape Cultivation and Value Addition (Raisin Making) in Vijayapura District of Karnataka, India
Authors: Biradar Asha , Tevari Prabhuling , Lokesh G B , Beeraladinni Devendra , Kammar Shivanand
Published: July 2024

Credit is an important factor triggering agricultural growth when it is utilized properly. The present study aims to analyze the credit utilization pattern and credit gap for grape cultivation and value addition (raisin making) in Vijayapura district, which is having the highest area under grape cultivation in Karnataka state. As the grape requires high maintenance expenses, its economic analysis is of great importance in its present status. The primary data was collected from 90 respondent grape farmers in the study area. The finding of the study revealed that the sample farmers borrowed an average of ₹ 1,46,883 from all the institutional sources for grape cultivation, and the utilization of borrowed institutional credit for grape production was ₹ 1,09,376 (74.5%), and ₹ 37,507 (25.5%) of borrowed institutional credit was diverted for raisin production. For raisin making the sample farmers borrowed a total of ₹ 1,67,372 in credit from non-institutional sources in the study area. ₹ 138,440 (82.72%) of borrowed non-institutional credit was utilized for raisin making and ₹ 28,932 (17.28%) of borrowed credit was diverted other purposes by the sample farmers. The total credit gap was found to be 58.49, 59.97, and 59.12 per cent from commercial banks, regional rural banks, and cooperative bank/societies respectively. The findings also indicated that the sample farmers used the borrowed institutional and non-institutional credit more effectively to increase their revenue, diverting it less often for other uses. Many farmers do not receive institutional credit in an adequate quantity, at the appropriate time, or at a reasonable cost. Therefore, there is a need to focus on existing access and the quantum of formal credit used for agricultural purposes by different farmers in rural areas of Vijayapura district.
Verfassungs- und sozialrechtliche Überlegungen zu den geplanten sektorenübergreifenden Versorgungseinrichtungen
Authors: Deister Sören
Published: July 2024

Die Forderung nach einer „Überwindung“ der Sektorengrenzen oder zumindest „Verzahnung“ der im deutschen Gesundheitswesen traditionell getrennten Sektoren ambulanter und stationärer Gesundheitsversorgung gehört zum Standardrepertoire gesundheitspolitischer Reformpapiere. Sie ist gut begründbar, da die getrennten Planungssysteme und Versorgungspfade eine kontinuierliche Gesundheitsversorgung erschweren und mit vermeidbarem Aufwand verbunden sind. Die Reformen der jüngeren Zeit haben die strikte Trennung überwiegend im Sinne einer Erweiterung der ambulanten Behandlungsmöglichkeiten von Krankenhäusern gelockert. Mit den „sektorenübergreifenden Versorgungseinrichtungen“ des Entwurfs zum Krankenhausversorgungsverbesserungsgesetz (KHVVG) wird ein Versuch der lokalen Bündelung stationärer, vertragsärztlicher und (alten-)pflegerischer Versorgung in einer neuen Art von Krankenhaus unternommen. Der folgende Beitrag stellt zunächst den Reformvorschlag dar (I.) und untersucht sodann zentrale verfassungsrechtliche (II.) Probleme.
Verfassungsbeschwerde: Alle Wege führen nach Luxemburg? Überlegungen zur Vorlagepflicht bei den Verrechnungspreisen im Lichte von BVerfG, Urt. v. 8.11.2023 – 2 BvR 1079/20
Authors: Heidecke Björn , Kircher Markus , Marburg Conrad
Published: July 2024

Das BVerfG hat nun schon zweimal eine Entscheidung des BFH zu Verrechnungspreisen aufgehoben, weil das Recht auf den gesetzlichen Richter verletzt wurde. Ein weiteres Verfahren zu diesem Thema ist beim BVerfG anhängig. Nach Auffassung des EuGH ist eine diskriminierende Verrechnungspreisanpassung bei grenzüberschreitenden Sachverhalten zwar vertretbar, aber nur, wenn die Korrektur verhältnismäßig und auf das Erforderliche beschränkt ist. Hierbei muss dem Steuerpflichtigen die Möglichkeit eingeräumt werden, wirtschaftliche Gründe für eine Abweichung vom Fremdvergleich vorzubringen. Dies ist in den ergangenen BFH-Entscheidungen nicht passiert. Wir kommen zu dem Ergebnis, dass in Zukunft noch mehr Verrechnungspreisfälle beim EuGH landen werden, sofern die deutschen Gerichte sich nicht mit der Frage befassen, welche wirtschaftlichen Gründe eine Abweichung vom Fremdvergleich legitimieren. Dies ist nach unserer Einschätzung nicht nur auf Finanzierungsbeziehungen beschränkt.
Teilerledigung: Gemischte Kostenentscheidung des Berufungsgerichts in der Revision — Auswirkungen auf die Berufung bei Teilerledigung im ersten Rechtszug?
Authors: Gehle Burkhard
Published: July 2024

Am Rande einer aktuellen Entscheidung v. 21.3.2024 - III ZR 70/23 (ebenso III ZR 70/21 und III ZR 72/23) zu den wirtschaftlichen Überprüfungs- und Ermittlungspflichten des Anlagevermittlers (insoweit abgedruckt in MDR 2024, 709) hat sich der BGH mit praxisrelevanten Aspekten der Kostenentscheidung nach Teilerledigung befasst (Rz. 33 bzw. 32 und 33 - insoweit nicht abgedruckt in der MDR) und folgendes festgehalten: Erlässt das Berufungsgericht nach übereinstimmender Teilerledigung eine in deren Umfang auf § 91a Abs. 1 S. 1 ZPO beruhende gemischte Kostenentscheidung und führt die (zugelassene) Revision zur Aufhebung und Zurückverweisung, wird die Kostenentscheidung, soweit sie den obsiegenden Beteiligten beschwert, auch dann in vollem Umfang aufgehoben, wenn der Revisionsantrag diesen Teil ausnimmt. Es obliegt alsdann dem Berufungsgericht, die auf der Teilerledigung beruhende Kostenentscheidung unter Beachtung der insoweit nicht eröffneten Nachprüfung in die abschließende gemischte Kostenentscheidung einzubeziehen. Der folgende Beitrag stellt die Entscheidung in den Rahmen der Rechtsprechung zur Behandlung von Teil-Kostenentscheidungen nach § 91a ZPO durch den BGH und geht der Frage nach, ob aus der Anwendung des § 308 Abs. 2 ZPO für den vergleichbaren Fall der Berufung gegen ein erstinstanzliches Urteil, das eine teilweise auf § 91a ZPO beruhende gemischte Kostenentscheidung enthält, Schlüsse zu ziehen sind.
Dipolarization fronts as a consequence of transient reconnection: In situ evidence
Authors: Fu H. S. , Cao J. B. , Khotyaintsev Yu. V. , Sitnov M. I. , Runov A. , Fu S. Y. , Hamrin M. , André M. , Retinò A. , Ma Y. D. , Lu H. Y. , Wei X. H. , Huang S. Y.
Published: November 2013

Dipolarization fronts (DFs) are frequently detected in the Earth's magnetotail from XGSM = −30 RE to XGSM = −7 RE. How these DFs are formed is still poorly understood. Three possible mechanisms have been suggested in previous simulations: (1) jet braking, (2) transient reconnection, and (3) spontaneous formation. Among these three mechanisms, the first has been verified by using spacecraft observation, while the second and third have not. In this study, we show Cluster observation of DFs inside reconnection diffusion region. This observation provides in situ evidence of the second mechanism: Transient reconnection can produce DFs. We suggest that the DFs detected in the near‐Earth region (XGSM > −10 RE) are primarily attributed to jet braking, while the DFs detected in the mid‐ or far‐tail region (XGSM < −15 RE) are primarily attributed to transient reconnection or spontaneous formation. In the jet‐braking mechanism, the high‐speed flow “pushes” the preexisting plasmas to produce the DF so that there is causality between high‐speed flow and DF. In the transient‐reconnection mechanism, there is no causality between high‐speed flow and DF, because the frozen‐in condition is violated.
Westward traveling surges: Sliding along boundary arcs and distinction from onset arc brightening
Authors: Lyons L. R. , Nishimura Y. , Gallardo‐Lacourt B. , Zou Y. , Donovan E. , Mende S. , Angelopoulos V. , M. Ruohoniemi J. , McWilliams K.
Published: November 2013

After onset, auroral brightening rapidly spreads azimuthally along the onset arc, typically, but not always, extending substantially farther westward than eastward. Expansion‐phase auroras also expand poleward and can contact an arc along the auroral poleward boundary. For such events, we find that poleward expansion of the region of active aurora accelerates after contact, forming a bulge region that protrudes into the preexisting polar cap and expands westward as the westward traveling surge. This westward motion is slower than, and initiates later than, the azimuthal spreading of the onset arc brightening. The poleward boundary arc remains connected to the surge as the surge slides along the equatorward moving edge of the boundary arc, and this connection appears to set off the westward traveling, poleward protruding activity of the surge via localized polar cap flow adjacent to the boundary arc. Ground magnetic signatures show a relatively weak H component depression moving westward with the onset arc brightening, and a delayed substantially larger depression moving with the westward propagating surge that must be associated with a substantially larger westward ionospheric current. The clear distinction between onset arc brightening and the westward traveling surge seen in auroral and magnetometer current signatures implies that their underlying processes are very different. Evidence suggests that flow channels adjacent to the boundary arc possibly feed surge development. These results are consistent with current wedge formation being more associated with post‐onset activity than with onset, and with flow channels from the polar cap being important for surge/bulge development.
Tectonic control on 10Be‐derived erosion rates in the Garhwal Himalaya, India
Authors: Scherler Dirk , Bookhagen Bodo , Strecker Manfred R.
Published: November 2013

Erosion in the Himalaya is responsible for one of the greatest mass redistributions on Earth and has fueled models of feedback loops between climate and tectonics. Although the general trends of erosion across the Himalaya are reasonably well known, the relative importance of factors controlling erosion is less well constrained. Here we present 25 10Be‐derived catchment‐averaged erosion rates from the Yamuna catchment in the Garhwal Himalaya, northern India. Tributary erosion rates range between ~0.1 and 0.5 mm yr−1 in the Lesser Himalaya and ~1 and 2 mm yr−1 in the High Himalaya, despite uniform hillslope angles. The erosion‐rate data correlate with catchment‐averaged values of 5 km radius relief, channel steepness indices, and specific stream power but to varying degrees of nonlinearity. Similar nonlinear relationships and coefficients of determination suggest that topographic steepness is the major control on the spatial variability of erosion and that twofold to threefold differences in annual runoff are of minor importance in this area. Instead, the spatial distribution of erosion in the study area is consistent with a tectonic model in which the rock uplift pattern is largely controlled by the shortening rate and the geometry of the Main Himalayan Thrust fault (MHT). Our data support a shallow dip of the MHT underneath the Lesser Himalaya, followed by a midcrustal ramp underneath the High Himalaya, as indicated by geophysical data. Finally, analysis of sample results from larger main stem rivers indicates significant variability of 10Be‐derived erosion rates, possibly related to nonproportional sediment supply from different tributaries and incomplete mixing in main stem channels.
In vivo baseline measurements of hip joint range of motion in suspensory and nonsuspensory anthropoids
Authors: Hammond Ashley S.
Published: November 2013

Hominoids and atelines are known to use suspensory behaviors and are assumed to possess greater hip joint mobility than nonsuspensory monkeys, particularly for range of abduction. This assumption has greatly influenced how extant and fossil primate hip joint morphology has been interpreted, despite the fact that there are no data available on hip mobility in hominoids or Ateles. This study uses in vivo measurements to test the hypothesis that suspensory anthropoids have significantly greater ranges of hip joint mobility than nonsuspensory anthropoids. Passive hip joint mobility was measured on a large sample of anesthetized captive anthropoids (nonhuman hominids = 43, hylobatids = 6, cercopithecids = 43, Ateles = 6, and Cebus = 6). Angular and linear data were collected using goniometers and tape measures. Range of motion (ROM) data were analyzed for significant differences by locomotor group using ANOVA and phylogenetic regression. The data demonstrate that suspensory anthropoids are capable of significantly greater hip abduction and external rotation. Degree of flexion and internal rotation were not larger in the suspensory primates, indicating that suspension is not associated with a global increase in hip mobility. Future work should consider the role of external rotation in abduction ability, how the physical position of the distal limb segments are influenced by differences in ROM proximally, as well as focus on bony and soft tissue differences that enable or restrict abduction and external rotation at the anthropoid hip joint. Am J Phys Anthropol 153:417–434, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Well‐Defined Metal–Organic Framework Hollow Nanocages
Authors: Zhang Zhicheng , Chen Yifeng , Xu Xiaobin , Zhang Jingchao , Xiang Guolei , He Wei , Wang Xun
Published: November 2013

Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) have demonstrated great potentials in a variety of important applications. To enhance the inherent properties and endow materials with multifunctionality, the rational design and synthesis of MOFs with nanoscale porosity and hollow feature is highly desired and remains a great challenge. In this work, the formation of a series of well‐defined MOF (MOF‐5, FeII‐MOF‐5, FeIII‐MOF‐5) hollow nanocages by a facile solvothermal method, without any additional supporting template is reported. A surface‐energy‐driven mechanism may be responsible for the formation of hollow nanocages. The addition of pre‐synthesized poly(vinylpyrrolidone)‐ (PVP) capped noble‐metal nanoparticles into the synthetic system of MOF hollow nanocages yields the yolk–shell noble metal@MOF nanostructures. The present strategy to fabricate hollow and yolk–shell nanostructures is expected to open up exciting opportunities for developing a novel class of inorganic–organic hybrid functional nanomaterials.
Improved Glucose‐Neopentyl Glycol (GNG) Amphiphiles for Membrane Protein Solubilization and Stabilization
Authors: Cho Kyung Ho , Bae Hyoung Eun , Das Manabendra , Gellman Samuel H. , Chae Pil Seok
Published: November 2013

Membrane proteins are inherently amphipathic and undergo dynamic conformational changes for proper function within native membranes. Maintaining the functional structures of these biomacromolecules in aqueous media is necessary for structural studies but difficult to achieve with currently available tools, thus necessitating the development of novel agents with favorable properties. This study introduces several new glucose‐neopentyl glycol (GNG) amphiphiles and reveals some agents that display favorable behaviors for the solubilization and stabilization of a large, multi‐subunit membrane protein assembly. Furthermore, a detergent structure–property relationship that could serve as a useful guideline for the design of novel amphiphiles is discussed.
Systematic review of emergency laparoscopic colorectal resection
Authors: Harji D P , Griffiths B , Burke D , Sagar P M
Published: November 2013

Background

Laparoscopic surgery (LS) has become standard practice for a range of elective general surgical operations. Its role in emergency general surgery is gaining momentum. This study aimed to assess the outcomes of LS compared with open surgery (OS) for colorectal resections in the emergency setting.

Methods

A systematic review was performed of studies reporting outcomes of laparoscopic colorectal resections in the acute or emergency setting in patients aged over 18 years, between January 1966 and January 2013.

Results

Twenty-two studies were included, providing outcomes for 5557 patients: 932 laparoscopic and 4625 open emergency resections. Median (range) operating time was 184 (63–444) min for LSversus 148 (61–231) min for OS. Median (range) length of stay was 10 (3–23) and 15 (6–33) days in the LS and OS groups respectively. The overall median (range) complication rate was 27·8 (0–33·3) and 48·3 (9–72) per cent respectively. There were insufficient data to detect differences in reoperation and readmission rates.

Conclusion

Emergency laparoscopic colorectal resection, where technically feasible, has better short-term outcomes than open resection.
Cortical morphology in children with alcohol‐related neurodevelopmental disorder
Authors: Rajaprakash Meghna , Chakravarty M. Mallar , Lerch Jason P. , Rovet Joanne
Published: November 2013

Introduction

It is well established that individuals exposed to alcohol in utero have reduced cortical grey matter volumes. However, the candidate determinants of these reductions, cortical thickness (CT) and surface area (SA), have not been investigated exclusively in alcohol‐related neurodevelopmental disorder (ARND), the most prevalent fetal alcohol spectrum disorder subgroup that lacks the characteristic facial dysmorphology.

Methods

T1‐weighted magnetic resonance imaging scans were obtained from 88 participants (8–16 years), 36 diagnosed with ARND and 52 typically developing controls. Scans were submitted to the CIVET pipeline (version 1.1.10). Deformable models were used to construct the inner white matter surfaces and pial surfaces from which CT and SA measures were derived. Group differences in cortical volume, CT, and SA were computed using a general linear model covaried for age, sex, and handedness.

Results

Global cortical volume reductions in ARND did not reflect CT, which did not differ between groups. Instead, volume decreases were consistent with global SA reductions in bilateral frontal and temporal as well as right occipital regions. Local reductions in SA were observed in the right superior temporal gyrus and the right occipital‐temporal region.

Conclusion

Results suggest that in ARND, prenatal alcohol exposure perturbs global SA to a greater degree than CT, particularly in the right temporal lobe.
Timeliness of second opinion appointed doctors' assessments of treatment plans for patients detained in medium security hospitals in London, UK
Authors: Murphy Paula , Ajaz Ali
Published: November 2013

Background

Mental health legislation in England & Wales requires assessment by a second opinion appointed doctor (SOAD) to safeguard the rights of patients detained in a hospital under this law if they are either refusing certain treatments or are deemed incapable of consenting to them.

Aims

Our aim was to evaluate timeliness of SOAD assessments.

Method

Data were collected from the Mental Health Act administrator on all SOAD requests in 1 year for all in‐patients in two English medium security hospital units.

Results

One hundred and six patients required a SOAD assessment during the 1‐year period examined, of a combined resident total of 295, as did a further 14 patients who had been discharged from hospital and were subject to a community treatment order. About half of the inpatients were seen by a SOAD within 30 days and a further quarter within 60 days, but the remaining quarter waited up to 150 days or more.

Discussion and implications

These results suggest that in these trusts, unlikely to be atypical, neither patients nor clinicians are being adequately protected by legal safeguards on decisions to treat with medication (or electroconvulsive therapy) in the event of impaired competence for decisions about mental health treatments.

There should be clear standards for the appropriate length of time from referral to assessment by an independent doctor (SOAD).

Compliance with standards should be transparent, so anonymised data on the matter should be routinely collected and stored by health trust Mental Health Act offices.

Data should be monitored at agreed intervals by an independent body.

Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Self‐Assembled Selenium Monolayers: From Nanotechnology to Materials Science and Adaptive Catalysis
Authors: Romashov Leonid V. , Ananikov Valentine P.
Published: November 2013

Self‐assembled monolayers (SAMs) of selenium have emerged into a rapidly developing field of nanotechnology with several promising opportunities in materials chemistry and catalysis. Comparison between sulfur‐based self‐assembled monolayers and newly developed selenium‐based monolayers reveal outstanding complimentary features on surface chemistry and highlighted the key role of the headgroup element. Diverse structural properties and reactivity of organosulfur and organoselenium groups on the surface provide flexible frameworks to create new generations of materials and adaptive catalysts with unprecedented selectivity. Important practical utility of adaptive catalytic systems deals with development of sustainable technologies and industrial processes based on natural resources. Independent development of nanotechnology, materials science and catalysis has led to the discovery of common fundamental principles of the surface chemistry of chalcogen compounds.
Synthesis and Photophysics of a New Family of Fluorescent 9‐Alkyl‐Substituted Xanthenones
Authors: Martínez‐Peragón Ángela , Miguel Delia , Jurado Rocío , Justicia José , Álvarez‐Pez José M. , Cuerva Juan M. , Crovetto Luis
Published: November 2013

9‐Alkyl xanthenones with different aliphatic pendant groups have been easily prepared by means of nucleophilic addition of the corresponding Grignard derivative to a tert‐butyldimethylsilyl ether (TBDMS)‐protected 3,6‐dihydroxy‐xanthenone. The photophysical behavior of the new dyes has been explored by using absorption, steady‐state‐, and time‐resolved fluorescence measurements. We determined the equilibrium constants, visible spectral characteristics, fluorescence quantum yield, and decay times. Remarkably, they retain similar fluorescent properties of fluorescein including the characteristic phosphate‐mediated excited‐state proton‐transfer (ESPT) reaction. 6‐Hydroxy‐9‐isopropyl‐3H‐xanthen‐3‐one (5) was investigated in living cells; it presented a good permeability and efficient accumulation inside the cytosol. For the first time, we reported that the requirement of an aryl group at C‐9 is no longer needed and new fluorescent sensors can be therefore easily developed.
Asymmetric α‐Hydroxylation of a Lactone with Vinylogous Pyridone by Using a Guanidine–Urea Bifunctional Organocatalyst: Catalytic Enantioselective Synthesis of a Key Intermediate for (20S)‐Camptothecin Analogues
Authors: Watanabe Tatsuya , Odagi Minami , Furukori Kota , Nagasawa Kazuo
Published: November 2013

We have developed a catalytic asymmetric synthesis of (S)‐4‐ethyl‐6,6‐(ethylenedioxy)‐7,8‐dihydro‐4‐hydroxy‐1H‐pyrano[3,4‐f]indolizine‐3,10(4H)dione (5 a), a synthetic intermediate for (20S)‐camptothecin analogues. A key step in this synthesis is an asymmetric α‐hydroxylation of a lactone with a vinylogous pyridone structure (8 a) by using a guanidine–urea bifunctional organocatalyst. The present oxidation was successfully applied to the synthesis of C20‐modified derivatives of (+)‐C20‐desethylbenzylcamptothecin (13).
Performance Evaluation of Protective Clothing Against Toxic Industrial Chemicals
Authors: Fernández José Francisco , Nierobisch Paul , Niemeyer Bernd
Published: November 2013

There are two possible solutions to avoid skin resorption of toxic industrial chemicals (TIC). An impermeable overgarment provides effective and reasonable protection, but it is naturally not breathable and presupposes physical stress for the wearer and thus limited work capabilities. In contrast, a semipermeable overgarment containing an adsorption layer currently based on activated carbon is more suitable, because it allows the transfer of corporal heat and dissipates perspiration from the skin. However, it cannot provide the same level of protection against all kinds of TIC. Consequently, an evaluation of the performance of a commercially available overgarment is presented in this study.
Palladacycle‐Catalyzed Carbonylation of Aryl Iodides or Bromides with Aryl Formates
Authors: Chen Guangwei , Leng Yuting , Yang Fan , Wang Shiwei , Wu Yangjie
Published: November 2013

An efficient palladacycle‐catalyzed aromatic carbonylation reaction of aryl formates with aryl iodides or bromides has been developed. Commercially available and easily prepared aryl formates were employed as carbonyl sources without the use of external carbon monoxide. The present catalytic system shows broad functional group tolerance and affords aryl benzoate derivatives in good to excellent yields.
Supramolecular Micelles and Reverse Micelles Based on Cyclodextrin Polyrotaxanes
Authors: Jin Qiao , Liu Gongyan , Ji Jian
Published: November 2013

A new supramolecular self‐assembly approach to construct micelles and reverse micelles was reported. Double‐hydrophilic block copolymers poly(ethylene oxide)‐b‐poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) (PEO‐b‐PNIPAAm) was synthesized via atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) using PEO macroinitiator. Because of the lower critical solution temperature (LCST) phase behavior of PNIPAAm, PEO‐b‐PNIPAAm block copolymers self‐assembled to form PNIPAAm‐core micelles at 40°C. The PNIPAAm‐core micelles were disassembled to unimers when the temperature was decreased to 25°C. But the addition of α‐cyclodextrins (α‐CDs) could induce the formation of PNIPAAm‐shell micelles because of the "channel‐type" crystallities induced by PEO/α‐CDs polyrotaxanes. The assembly and disassembly procedure of micelles and reverse micelles were investigated by dynamic light scattering (DLS), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), 1H NMR and transmission electron microscopy (TEM).
Eg5 restricts anaphase B spindle elongation in mammalian cells
Authors: Collins Elizabeth , Mann Barbara J. , Wadsworth Patricia
Published: November 2013

During anaphase, overlapping antiparallel microtubules in the spindle interzone elongate and contribute to chromosome segregation. Kinesin‐5 family members are required for spindle elongation in some cells, but in other cases they restrict elongation acting like a brake. To determine how kinesin‐5 contributes to spindle elongation in mammalian cells, we treated LLC‐Pk1 epithelial cells with small molecule inhibitors of the mammalian kinesin‐5, Eg5, at anaphase onset and measured the rate and extent of spindle pole separation using multidimensional tracking of centrosomes in cells expressing GFP‐γ‐tubulin. Centrosome separation was biphasic, with an initial fast phase followed by a slower phase. Treatment with the small molecule inhibitor, STLC, which weakens the interaction of Eg5 with microtubules, resulted in an increase in the rate of centrosome separation. Conversely, treatment with FCPT, which induces a rigor‐like interaction of Eg5 with microtubules, reduced the rate of spindle elongation. In control cells, GFP‐Eg5 was localized to spindle microtubules and accumulated in the interzone as anaphase progressed. Spindle fluorescence of GFP‐Eg5 was decreased following treatment with STLC and increased in cells treated with FCPT. In anaphase cells, cortical dynein increases and rocking motion of spindle poles was detected consistent with the possibility that dynein mediates spindle elongation. In summary, our results demonstrate that Eg5 is not required for spindle elongation, and in fact, restricts the rate of spindle elongation in mammalian cells. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
I spy with my little eye: Typical, daily exposure to faces documented from a first‐person infant perspective
Authors: Sugden Nicole A. , Mohamed‐Ali Marwan I. , Moulson Margaret C.
Published: November 2013

Exposure to faces is known to shape and change the face processing system; however, no study has yet documented infants' natural daily first‐hand exposure to faces. One‐ and three‐month‐old infants' visual experience was recorded through head‐mounted cameras. The video recordings were coded for faces to determine: (1) How often are infants exposed to faces? (2) To what type of faces are they exposed? and (3) Do frequently encountered face types reflect infants' typical pattern of perceptual narrowing? As hypothesized, infants spent a large proportion of their time (25%) exposed to faces; these faces were primarily female (70%), own‐race (96%), and adult‐age (81%). Infants were exposed to more individual exemplars of female, own‐race, and adult‐age faces than to male, other‐race, and child‐ or older‐adult‐age faces. Each exposure to own‐race faces was longer than to other‐race faces. There were no differences in exposure duration related to the gender or age of the face. Previous research has found that the face types frequently experienced by our participants are preferred over and more successfully recognized than other face types. The patterns of face exposure revealed in the current study coincide with the known trajectory of perceptual narrowing seen later in infancy.© 2013 The Authors. Developmental Psychobiology Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Dev Psychobiol 56: 249–261, 2014.
Birth, survival and differentiation of neurons in an adult crustacean brain
Authors: Kim Youngmi Faith , Sandeman David C. , Benton Jeanne L. , Beltz Barbara S.
Published: November 2013

Life‐long neurogenesis is a characteristic feature of many vertebrate and invertebrate species. In decapod crustaceans, new neurons are added throughout life to two cell clusters containing local (cluster 9) and projection (cluster 10) interneurons in the olfactory pathway. Adult‐born neurons in clusters 9 and 10 in crayfish have the anatomical properties and chemistry of mature neurons by 6 months after birth. Here we use 5‐bromo‐2′‐deoxyuridine (BrdU) incorporation to pulse label mitotically active cells in these cell clusters, followed by a survival time of up to 8 months, during which crayfish (Cherax destructor) were sacrificed at intervals and the numbers of BrdU‐labeled cells quantified. We find a decrease in the numbers of BrdU‐labeled cells in cell cluster 10 between the first and second weeks following BrdU exposure, suggesting a period of cell death shortly after proliferation. Additional delayed cell divisions in both cell clusters are indicated by increases in labeled cells long after the BrdU clearing time. The differentiation time of these cells into neurons was defined by detection of the first immunoreactivity for the transmitter SIFamide in cluster 10 BrdU‐labeled cells, which begins at 4 weeks after BrdU labeling; the numbers of SIFamide‐labeled cells continues to increase over the following month. Experiments testing whether proliferation and survival of Cluster 10 cells are influenced by locomotor activity provided no evidence of a correlation between activity levels and cell proliferation, but suggest a strong influence of locomotor activity on cell survival. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Develop Neurobiol 74: 602–615, 2014
Lanthanoid Tetramethylaluminates and Their Paramagnetic NMR Parameters
Authors: Nieland Anja , Mix Andreas , Neumann Beate , Stammler Hans‐Georg , Mitzel Norbert W.
Published: November 2013

Tris(tetramethylaluminate)s of the lanthanoids cerium (1), holmium (2), and erbium (3) were synthesized by treating lanthanoid amide complexes of the type [Ln(NMe2)3(LiCl)3] with an excess amount of AlMe3. These compounds were characterized by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction, elemental analysis, and NMR spectroscopy. Paramagnetic NMR spectroscopic studies were undertaken to investigate the influence of the compounds on the solvent chemical shifts. NMR parameters for the 1H, 13C, and 27Al nuclei of all the reported lanthanoid tris(tetramethylaluminate)s were measured. The reactions of tris(tetramethylaluminate)s of samarium and holmium with an excess amount of tetrahydrofuran led to [LnMe2(thf)5][AlMe4] {Ln = Ho (4), Sm (5)}. NMR spectroscopic investigations of the paramagnetic holmium and samarium methyl compounds (i.e., 4, 5) as well as the known diamagnetic analogue [YMe2(thf)5][AlMe4] revealed methyl group exchange processes in solution.
Coordination Behaviour of a Hexadentate 1,1′‐Ferrocenylene‐Bridged Bisphosphole towards Coinage Metal Centres
Authors: Orthaber Andreas , Borucki Stefan , Shen Wenting , Réau Regis , Lescop Christophe , Pietschnig Rudolf
Published: November 2013

We describe the synthesis of a ferrocenylene‐bridged bis[2,5‐bis(2‐pyridyl)]phosphole ligand that shows additional rotational degrees of freedom relative to its previously described p‐phenylene‐bridged congener. The coordination behaviour of this ferrocenylene‐based bis‐N,P,N pincer towards coinage metal centres MI with M = Cu and Au was explored, revealing different coordination modes with and without involvement of N donation. Upon coordination of AuI metal centres, different isomers of a bimetallic AuI complex were isolated in the crystalline solid state that showed (or did not) intramolecular aurophilic interaction. Aurophilic as well as Au–N interactions have been investigated by means of ab initio calculations.
Late‐Stage β‐Epimerization. A Stereodivergent to Stereoconvergent Relay to the First Total Synthesis of (+)‐Murolic Acid
Authors: Fernandes Rodney A. , Patil Pradnya H. , Chowdhury Asim K.
Published: November 2013

The first total synthesis of (+)‐murolic acid is accomplished in 17 steps from ester 9 in 14.8 % overall yield. The key steps involve asymmetric dihydroxylation, orthoester Johnson–Claisen rearrangement and α‐methylenation using Stiles reagent. A beneficial late stage β‐epimerization reverted a stereodivergent relay to a stereoconvergent completion of an efficient synthesis of (+)‐murolic acid.
Influence of sodium chloride on hydrophobic adsorption of PEGylated lysozyme
Authors: Werner Albert , Blaschke Tim , Hasse Hans
Published: November 2013

Interaction of macromolecules in aqueous salt‐containing solution with a hydrophobic adsorbent is studied by adsorption equilibrium measurements and by independent isothermal titration calorimetry. The macromolecules are native as well as mono‐, di‐, and tri‐PEGylated lysozyme and four pure PEGs. The hydrophobic adsorbent is Toyopearl PPG‐600M. The salt is sodium chloride. The sodium chloride concentration in the aqueous 25 mM sodium phosphate buffer is varied from 2000 to 4500 mM at pH 7.0 and 25°C. PEGylation of the lysozyme is carried using 5 and 10 kDa PEG chains. The molar enthalpy of adsorption is calculated from the adsorption equilibrium and the calorimetric data. The results show that the adsorption of the PEGylated lysozyme is caused by both the interaction of the lysozyme and the interaction of the PEG chains with the adsorbent, respectively, but the interaction of the lysozyme is stronger than that of PEG. The comparison of the results of the present study on the influence of sodium chloride with a corresponding study on the influence of ammonium sulfate shows that the adsorption mechanism changes upon the variation of the salt. The knowledge of the adsorption mechanisms supports the systematic development of chromatographic purification steps.
Oocyte quality in mice is affected by a mycotoxin‐contaminated diet
Authors: Hou Yan‐Jun , Xiong Bo , Zheng Wei‐Jiang , Duan Xing , Cui Xiang‐Shun , Kim Nam‐Hyung , Wang Qiang , Xu Yin‐Xue , Sun Shao‐Chen
Published: November 2013

Mycotoxins, such as deoxynivalenol (DON), zearalenone (ZEN), and aflatoxin (AF), are commonly found in many food commodities and may impair the growth and reproductive efficiency of animals and humans. We investigated the effects of a mycotoxin‐contaminated diet on mouse oocyte quality. Maize contaminated with DON (3.875 mg/kg), ZEN (1,897 μg/kg), and AF (806 μg/kg) was incorporated into a mouse diet at three different levels (0, 15, and 30% w/w). After 4 weeks, ovarian and germinal vesicle oocyte indices decreased in mycotoxin‐fed mice. Oocytes from these mice exhibited low developmental competence with reduced germinal vesicle breakdown and polar body extrusion rates. Embryo developmental competence also showed a similar pattern, and the majority of embryos could not develop to the morula stage. Actin expression was also reduced in both the oocyte cortex and cytoplasm, which was accompanied by decreased expression of the actin nucleation factors profilin‐1 and mDia1. Moreover, a large percentage of oocytes derived from mice that were fed a mycotoxin‐contaminated diet exhibited aberrant spindle morphology, a loss of the cortical granule‐free domain, and abnormal mitochondrial distributions, which further supported the decreased oocyte quality. Thus, our results demonstrate that mycotoxins are toxic to the mouse reproductive system by affecting oocyte quality. Environ. Mol. Mutagen. 55:354–362, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Salinity influences on the uptake of silver nanoparticles and silver nitrate by marine medaka (Oryzias melastigma)
Authors: Wang Jian , Wang Wen-xiong
Published: November 2013

With increasing use of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), concerns about their potential deleterious effects on aquatic ecosystems have increased. Most previous studies have focused on the toxicity of AgNPs while their bioavailability has been seldom investigated. The present study examined the effects of salinity on the aggregation kinetics as well as the bioavailability of commercial 80-nm citrate-coated AgNPs (c-AgNPs) in the presence or absence of a nonionic surfactant (Tween 20) to marine medaka (Oryzias melastigma). In addition, the uptake of soluble Ag was quantified for comparison and for deducting the uptake of soluble Ag during AgNP exposure by applying a biokinetic model. The authors found that the addition of Tween 20 immediately slowed down the process of aggregation of AgNPs, and an elevated amount of Tween 20 (20 µM) kept AgNPs well dispersed, even in the 30-psu salinity medium. Uptake rate constants (ku) of AgNPs were less than half the soluble Ag at low salinities (1 psu and 5 psu), while limited bioavailability of c-AgNPs was observed at high salinities (15 psu and 30 psu). However, the Tween 20–stabilized AgNPs (t-AgNPs) were accumulated by medaka at comparable rates as the soluble Ag, indicating the importance of dispersion for bioavailability of AgNPs in a highly ionic environment. The present study provided the first insight of the bioavailability of AgNPs to fish in a high-ionic environment. More studies are needed to gain a full understanding of bioavailability of AgNPs in marine environments. Environ Toxicol Chem 2014;33:632–640. © 2013 SETAC
Impact of imidacloprid on Daphnia magna under different food quality regimes
Authors: Ieromina Oleksandra , Peijnenburg Willie J.G.M. , de Snoo Geert , Müller Jutta , Knepper Thomas P. , Vijver Martina G.
Published: November 2013

Aquatic ecosystems are characterized by fluctuating conditions that have direct effects on aquatic communities but also indirect influences such as changing the toxicity of chemicals. Because the effect of food quality on pesticide toxicity has rarely been studied, in the present study Daphnia magna juveniles supplied with 4 different food quality levels were exposed to a range of imidacloprid concentrations for 21 d. Food quality was expressed as carbon:phosphorus ratios of algae Pseudokirchneriella subcapitata (C:P 35, C:P 240, C:P 400, and C:P 1300). Survival, growth rates, and reproduction of D. magna were monitored, and the combined effects of imidacloprid exposure and the phosphorus content of algae were analyzed. A stronger effect on survival was observed at the P-deficient diet (C:P 1300), confirmed by lower 10% effect concentration (EC10) values at days 7, 9, 15, and 21 compared with diets with higher phosphorus contents. Similarly, the growth rate was reduced when D. magna were supplied with algae of low phosphorus content at imidacloprid exposure conditions. The highest reproductive output was observed for D. magna fed the optimal phosphorus diet (C:P 240), both at control and exposed conditions. Poor food quality increased the sensitivity of nontarget species to pesticide exposure, potentially leading to an underestimation of adverse effects on aquatic communities in the field. Environ Toxicol Chem 2014;33:621–631. © 2013 SETAC
Algal growth stimulation and toxicity in response to exposure to the new insensitive military high-nitrogen energetic triaminoguanidinium-1-methyl-5-nitriminotetrazolate
Authors: Stanley Jacob K. , Biedenbach James M. , Russell Amber L. , Bednar Anthony J.
Published: November 2013

Triaminoguanidinium-1-methyl-5-nitriminotetrazolate (TAG-MNT) is a nitrogen-rich energetic compound being developed as a potential component of insensitive munition formulations. The purpose of the present study was to assess the toxicity of TAG-MNT to the green alga Pseudokirchneriella subcapitata as well as to determine whether the high N content of TAG-MNT could result in increased algal growth in aquatic systems and potentially contribute to eutrophication using a 96-h algal growth bioassay in N-limited test media. Results were compared with algal exposures to current-use energetics 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT) and royal demolition explosive (RDX). The TNT exposure resulted in a lowest-observed-adverse-effect concentration (LOAEC) for algal growth of 1.72 mg/L and a 50% inhibition concentration (IC50) and 95% confidence limits of 0.972 mg/L (0.955, 0.973). The RDX algal growth LOAEC was 0.10 mg/L, and the RDX IC50 was 0.635 (0.416, 0.875). Neither TNT nor RDX exposure resulted in stimulation of algal growth. In repeated testing, TAG-MNT exposure resulted in LOAECs of 0.55 and 5.20 mg/L. Stimulation of algal growth was observed at 0.06 mg/L at a mean increase of 163.2% (± 71.7) relative to the control in TAG-MNT test A and at the 0.005 mg/L treatment at a mean increase of 174.3% (± 59.9) in TAG-MNT test B. The authors' results indicate the potential for high-N energetics to significantly stimulate algal growth at low concentrations in N-limited systems. Environ Toxicol Chem 2014;33:616–620. © 2013 SETAC. This article is a US Government work and is in the public domain in the USA.