Role of twin boundaries on the vortex dynamics in YBa2_2Cu3_3O7_7

By means of a novel technique of rotating the applied current we have directly measured the influence of twin boundaries on the vortex motion in a YBa$_2$Cu$_3$O$_7$ single crystal. The results indicate that the effect of twin planes on the vortex dynamics starts to develop below a certain temperature, being responsible for an anisotropic viscosity in the vortex liquid state and a guided motion in the solid state.Comment: 4 pages, 4 figure

An Urban Forest Horizon Scan in Canberra, Australia. Report for the Clean Air and Urban Landscapes Hub

In attempting to glimpse the possible futures for the urban forest, insights can be gained into key current policy and research needs that will better prepare the urban forest, and its managers and users, for these future scenarios. The horizon scanning workshop provided the forum and opportunity for researchers and policy makers from a range of backgrounds to come together and for one day imagine scenarios for future forests. These discussions generated new conceptions of future cities and the roles of the urban forests within them. Discussions pointed to both opportunities and threats for urban forests, associated with technological developments, increasing climate change impacts, globalisation and population growth. These scenarios could be further developed to identify key research and policy priorities that can better prepare our cities to capitalise on the opportunities and manage the threats. The workshop also opened possibilities for increased transdisciplinary collaborations between workshop participants and their colleagues

Allylic Amines as Key Building Blocks in the Synthesis of ( E

Nucleophilic imine additions with vinyl organometallics have developed into efficient, high-yielding, and robust methodologies to generate structurally diverse allylic amines. We have used the hydrozirconation/transmetalation/imine addition protocol in the synthesis of allylic amine intermediates for peptide bond isosteres, phosphatase inhibitors, and mitochondria-targeted peptide mimetics. The gramicidin S-derived XJB-5-131 and JP4-039 and their analogues have been prepared on up to 160-g scale for preclinical studies. These (E)-alkene peptide isosteres adopt type II β-turn secondary structures and display impressive biological properties including selective reactions with reactive oxygen species (ROS) and prevention of apoptosis. © 2012 American Chemical Society

Large-scale asymmetric synthesis of the bioprotective agent JP4-039 and analogs

Chemical equations presented. JP4-039 is a novel nitroxide conjugate capable of crossing lipid bilayer membranes and scavenging reactive oxygen species (ROS). An efficient and scalable one-pot hydrozirconation- transmetalation-imine addition methodology has been developed for its asymmetric preparation. Furthermore, this versatile methodology allows for the synthesis of cyclopropyl and fluorinated analogs of the parent lead structure. © 2011 American Chemical Society