bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Forced Degradation and Photodegradation Studies of Pyrrolo[3,4-c]pyridine-1,3-dione Derivatives as Analgesic Active Compounds Using HPLC, UV and IR Spectrometry, and HPLC/MS Methods
Authors: Muszalska Izabela , Ciemniejewski Michał P , Lesniewska Monika A , Szkatuła Dominika , Malinka Wiesław
Published: October 2015

The stress and accelerated tests as well as photostability analysis in solutions and the solid phase of three selected derivatives of pyrrolo[3,4-c]pyridine-1,3-dione were carried out according the International Conference on Harmonization guidelines. For observation of the degradation of tested compounds, the RP-HPLC method was used. The study included the effect of temperature, relative humidity, water, H+ and OH– ions, hydrogen peroxide, and light (6.0 × 106, 1.2 × 106 lux·h) on the stability of pyrrolo[3,4-c]pyridine-1,3-dione derivatives. Studies have shown that these derivatives are photolabile, extremely unstable in an alkaline medium, labile in an acidic medium, and stable in a neutral medium. Their sensitivity to oxidizing agents depends on the chemical structure. The shortening of the aliphatic chain leads to an increase in the sensitivity to hydrolytic and oxidizing factors. The presence of the 1,3,4-tetraisoquinoline group promotes an increase in the susceptibility to photodegradation. The introduction of a carbonyl group to the aliphatic chain and the tetrafluoromethyl group to the phenyl ring stabilizes the molecule in the case of hydrolysis and oxidation and also increases sensitivity to light. The analysis of observed photodegradation products using the HPLC-diode array detector, HPLC/MS, and UV and IR spectrometry techniques showed degradation targeted at the breaking of the pyrrolo[3,4-c]pyridine-1,3-dione, piperazine, and/or tetrahydroisoquinoline rings.
Electrochemical Determination of Uric Acid at CdTe Quantum Dot Modified Glassy Carbon Electrodes
Authors: Pan Deng , Rong Shengzhong , Zhang Guangteng , Zhang Yannan , Zhou Qiang , Liu Fenghai , Li Miaojing , Chang Dong , Pan Hongzhi
Published: October 2015

Cyclic voltammetry and differential pulse voltammetry were used to investigate the electrochemical behavior of uric acid (UA) at a CdTe quantum dot (QD) modified the glassy carbon electrode (GCE). CdTe QDs, as new semiconductor nanocrystals, can greatly improve the peak current of UA. The anodic peak current of UA was linear with its concentration between 1.0 × 10–6 and 4.0 × 10–4 M in 0.1 M pH 5.0 phosphate buffer solution. The LOD for UA at the CdTe electrode (1.0 × 10–7 M) was superior to that of the GCE. In addition, we also determined the effects of scan rate, pH, and interferences of UA for the voltammetric behavior and detection. The results indicated that modified electrode possessed excellent reproducibility and stability. Finally, a new and efficient electrochemical sensor for detecting UA was developed.
HPLC and HPLC/MS/MS Studies on Stress, Accelerated and Intermediate Degradation Tests of Antivirally Active Tricyclic Analog of Acyclovir
Authors: Lesniewska Monika A , Dereziński Paweł , Klupczyńska Agnieszka , Kokot Zenon J , Ostrowski Tomasz , Zeidler Joanna , Muszalska Izabela
Published: October 2015

The degradation behavior of a tricyclic analog of acyclovir [6-(4-MeOPh)-TACV] was determined in accordance with International Conference on Harmonization guidelines for good clinical practice under different stress conditions (neutral hydrolysis, strong acid/base degradation, oxidative decomposition, photodegradation, and thermal degradation). Accelerated [40 ± 2°C/75% ± 5% relative humidity (RH)] and intermediate (30 ± 2°C/65% ± 5% RH) stability tests were also performed. For observation of the degradation of the tested compound the RP-HPLC was used, whereas for the analysis of its degradation products HPLC/MS/MS was used. Degradation of the tested substance allowed its classification as unstable in neutral environment, acidic/alkaline medium, and in the presence of oxidizing agent. The tested compound was also light sensitive and was classified as photolabile both in solution and in the solid phase. However, the observed photodegradation in the solid phase was at a much lower level than in the case of photodegradation in solution. The study showed that both air temperature and RH had no significant effect on the stability of the tested substance during storage for 1 month at 100°C (dry heat) as well as during accelerated and intermediate tests. Based on the HPLC/MS/MS analysis, it can be concluded that acyclovir was formed as a degradation product of 6-(4-MeOPh)-TACV.
Simultaneous Detection of Genetically Modified Organisms in a Mixture by Multiplex PCR-Chip Capillary Electrophoresis
Authors: Patwardhan Supriya , Dasari Srikanth , Bhagavatula Krishna , Mueller Steffen , Deepak Saligrama Adavigowda , Ghosh Sudip , Basak Sanjay
Published: October 2015

An efficient PCR-based method to trace genetically modified food and feed products is in demand due to regulatory requirements and contaminant issues in India. However, post-PCR detection with conventional methods has limited sensitivity in amplicon separation that is crucial in multiplexing. The study aimed to develop a sensitive post-PCR detection method by using PCR-chip capillary electrophoresis (PCR-CCE) to detect and identify specific genetically modified organisms in their genomic DNA mixture by targeting event-specific nucleotide sequences. Using the PCR-CCE approach, novel multiplex methods were developed to detect MON531 cotton, EH 92-527-1 potato, Bt176 maize, GT73 canola, or GA21 maize simultaneously when their genomic DNAs in mixtures were amplified using their primer mixture. The repeatability RSD (RSDr) of the peak migration time was 0.06 and 3.88% for the MON531 and Bt176, respectively. The RSD (RSDR) of the Cry1Ac peak ranged from 0.12 to 0.40% in multiplex methods. The method was sensitive in resolving amplicon of size difference up to 4 bp. The PCR-CCE method is suitable to detect multiple genetically modified events in a composite DNA sample by tagging their event specific sequences.
Comparative Evaluation of Veriflow®Listeria monocytogenes to USDA and AOAC Culture Based Methods for the Detection of Listeria monocytogenes in Food
Authors: Joelsson Adam C , Brown Ashley S , Puri Amrita , Keough Martin P , Gaudioso Zara E , Siciliano Nicholas A , Snook Adam E
Published: October 2015

Veriflow®Listeria monocytogenes (LM) is a molecular based assay for the presumptive detection of Listeria monocytogenes from environmental surfaces, dairy, and ready-to-eat (RTE) food matrixes (hot dogs and deli meat). The assay utilizes a PCR detection method coupled with a rapid, visual, flow-based assay that develops in 3 min post PCR amplification and requires only 24 h of enrichment for maximum sensitivity. The Veriflow LM system eliminates the need for sample purification, gel electrophoresis, or fluorophore-based detection of target amplification, and does not require complex data analysis. This Performance Tested MethodSM validation study demonstrated the ability of the Veriflow LM method to detect low levels of artificially inoculated L. monocytogenes in seven distinct environmental and food matrixes. In each unpaired reference comparison study, probability of detection analysis indicated no significant difference between the Veriflow LM method and the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and Inspection Service Microbiology Laboratory Guidebook 8.08 or AOAC 993.12 reference method. Fifty strains of L. monocytogenes were detected in the inclusivity study, while 39 nonspecific organisms were undetected in the exclusivity study. The study results show that Veriflow LM is a sensitive, selective, and robust assay for the presumptive detection of L. monocytogenes sampled from environmental, dairy, or RTE (hot dogs and deli meat) food matrixes.
Interaction between Human Serum Albumin and Different Anatase TiO2 Nanoparticles: A Nano-bio Interface Study
Authors: Vergaro Viviana , Carlucci Claudia , Cascione Mariafrancesca , Lorusso Caterina , Conciauro Francesca , Scremin Barbara Federica , Congedo Paolo Maria , Cannazza Giuseppe , Citti Cinzia , Ciccarella Giuseppe
Published: October 2015

In this investigation, differently shaped and surface functionalized TiO2 anatase nanoparticles and human serum albumin (HSA) were selected to study protein-nanoparticles interaction both in a solution and on flat surfaces, thereby mimicking a medical device. Anatase nanocrystals were characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) surface analysis and dynamic light scattering (DLS). The protein-nanoparticles' interactions and their eventual reversibility were studied by pH dependent ζ- potential measurements in different media: ultra-pure water, a phosphate buffer simulating physiological conditions and in a culture medium supplemented with foetal bovine serum. The protein corona masking effect was evidenced and the interaction HSA-nanocrystals resulted irreversible. The interaction HSA-silicon supported TiO2 nanocrystals films was studied by atomic force microscopy (AFM), and resulted driven by the substrate hydrophilicity degree plus was different for the diverse range of nanocrystals tested. Surface roughness measurements showed that on some of the nanocrystals, HSA were arranged in a more globular manner. A lower protein affinity was found for nanocrystals that had a smaller primary particle size, which may correspond to their higher biocompatibility. This nano-bio interface research aimed to study the HSA protein-TiO2 anatase nanocrystals under conditions similar to those for in vitro and in vivo toxicity analyses.
Relações Brasil-África e geopolítica do Atlântico Sul
Authors: Alves Penha Eli
Published: October 2015

Livro faz uma retomada das relações entre o Brasil, a África e o Atlântico Sul, abordando a “Pax Lusitana” e o período colonial; as transformações do poder marítimo contemporâneo; as estratégias marítimas das grandes potências no Atlântico-Sul; as formulações geopolíticas brasileiras sobre o Atlântico Sul, dentre outros assuntos relevantes. Para finalizar, Relações Brasil-África apresenta o cenário atual da cooperação Sul-Atlântica, o “despertar” da África, a diplomacia do “pragmatismo responsável”, os conflitos, interações e relações comerciais no Atlântico Sul, inclusive a parceria Brasil-Nigéria, o estabelecimento da Zona de Paz e a Organização do Tratado do Atlântico.
Size-tunable palladium nanoparticles synthesized using the solution plasma process and their electrocatalytic activities
Authors: Jo Yu-Geun , Kim Sung-Min , Lee Sang-Yul
Published: October 2015

In this work, for fuel cell applications, size-tunable Pd nanoparticles were synthesized by adjusting the applied voltage in a range from 2.4 to 3.2 kV in solution plasma. The crystalline structure and morphology of the size-tuned Pd nanoparticles were examined using X-ray diffractometer (XRD) and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM). The results revealed that the size of the Pd nanoparticles could be varied by tuning the Pd concentration in the plasma, which could be achieved by changing the applied voltages. The size of the Pd nanoparticles gradually decreased with increasing voltage, and the smallest Pd nanoparticles of 4.7 nm in diameter were observed at the highest voltage of 3.2 kV. According to the cyclic voltammetry and chronoamperometry tests, the Pd nanoparticles of 5.7 nm in diameter exhibited the enhanced catalytic activity and durability for methanol oxidation since the Pd surface was less covered by OH species.
The nonlinear variation of drought and its relation to atmospheric circulation in Shandong Province, East China
Authors: Li Baofu , Chen Zhongsheng , Yuan Xingzhong
Published: October 2015

Considerable attention has recently been devoted to the linear trend of drought at the decadal to inter-decadal time scale; however, the nonlinear variation of drought at multi-decadal scales and its relation to atmospheric circulation need to be further studied. The linear and nonlinear variations of the Palmer drought severity index (PDSI) in Shandong from 1900 to 2012 and its relations to the Pacific decadal oscillation (PDO), El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO), Siberian high (SH) and Southern Oscillation (SO) phase changes from multi-scale are detected using linear regression, the Mann–Kendall test, ensemble empirical mode decomposition (EEMD) and the Pearson correlation analysis method. The results indicate that the PDSI shows no statistically significant linear change trend from 1900 to 2012; however, before (after) the late 1950s, PDSI shows a significant upward (downward) trend (P< 0.01) with a linear rate of 0.28/decade (−0.48/decade). From 1900 to 2012, the PDSI also exhibits a nonlinear variation trend at the inter-annual scale (quasi-3 and quasi-7-year), inter-decadal scale (quasi-14-year) and multi-decadal scale (quasi-46 and quasi-65-year). The variance contribution rate of components from the inter-annual scale is the largest, reaching 38.7%, and that from the inter-decadal scale and multi-decadal scale are 18.9% and 19.0%, respectively, indicating that the inter-annual change exerts a huge influence on the overall PDSI change. The results also imply that the effect of the four atmospheric circulations (PDO, ENSO, SH, SO) on PDSI at the multi-decadal variability scale are more important than that at the other scales. Consequently, we state that PDSI variation at the inter-annual scale has more instability, while that at the inter-decadal and multi-decadal scale is more strongly influenced by natural factors.
Genetic analysis of Thai cattle reveals a Southeast Asian indicine ancestry
Authors: Wangkumhang Pongsakorn , Wilantho Alisa , Shaw Philip J. , Flori Laurence , Moazami-Goudarzi Katayoun , Gautier Mathieu , Duangjinda Monchai , Assawamakin Anunchai , Tongsima Sissades
Published: October 2015

Cattle commonly raised in Thailand have characteristics ofBos indicus(zebu). We do not know when or how cattle domestication in Thailand occurred, and so questions remain regarding their origins and relationships to other breeds. We obtained genome-wide SNP genotypic data of 28 bovine individuals sampled from four regions: North (Kho-Khaolampoon), Northeast (Kho-Isaan), Central (Kho-Lan) and South (Kho-Chon) Thailand. These regional varieties have distinctive traits suggestive of breed-like genetic variations. From these data, we confirmed that all four Thai varieties areBos indicusand that they are distinct from other indicine breeds. Among these Thai cattle, a distinctive ancestry pattern is apparent, which is the purest within Kho-Chon individuals. This ancestral component is only present outside of Thailand among other indicine breeds in Southeast Asia. From this pattern, we conclude that a uniqueBos indicusancestor originated in Southeast Asia, and native Kho-Chon Thai cattle retain the signal of this ancestry with limited admixture of other bovine ancestors.
Combining environmental suitability and population abundances to evaluate the invasive potential of the tunicateCiona intestinalisalong the temperate South American coast
Authors: Januario Stella M. , Estay Sergio A. , Labra Fabio A. , Lima Mauricio
Published: October 2015

The tunicateCiona intestinalisis an opportunistic invader with high potential for causing economic losses in aquaculture centers. Recent phylogenetic and population genetic analysis support the existence of a genetic complex described asC. intestinaliswith two main dominant species (sp A and B) occurring worldwide. In Chile, the species has been observed around 30°S of latitude, but no official reports exist for the presence ofC. intestinalisin southern regions (above 40°S), where most of the mollusk aquaculture centers are located. Here, we used occurrences from multiple invaded regions and extensive field sampling to model and validate the environmental conditions that allow the species to persist and to find the geographic areas with the most suitable environmental conditions for the spread ofC. intestinalisin the Chilean coast. By studying the potential expansion ofC. intestinalissouthward in the Chilean Coast, we aimed to provide valuable information that might help the development of control plans before the species becomes a significant problem, especially above 40°S. Our results highlight that, by using portions of the habitat that are apparently distinguishable, the species seem to be not only genetically distinct, but ecologically distinct as well. The two regional models fitted for sp A and for sp B showed disagreement on which sections of Chilean coastline are considered more suitable for these species. While the model for sp A identifies moderately to highly suitable areas between 30° and 40°S, the model for sp B classifies the areas around 45°S as the most appropriate. Data from field sampling show a positive linear relationship between density ofC. intestinalisand the index of suitability for sp A in aquaculture centers. Understanding the relation of the distinct species with the surrounding environment provided valuable insights about probable routes of dispersion in Chile, especially into those areas considered suitable for aquaculture activities but where the species has not yet been recorded. We discuss the implications of our findings as a useful tool to anticipate the invasion of such harmful invasive species with regard to the most relevant environmental variables.
Magmatic consequences of the transition from orthogonal to oblique subduction in Panama
Authors: Rooney Tyrone O. , Morell Kristin D. , Hidalgo Paulo , Fraceschi Pastora
Published: October 2015

The closure of the Central American Seaway is linked with tectonic and magmatic processes that have controlled the evolution of the Isthmus of Panama. We focus on the terminal stages of arc activity in the Central Panama region, and present new geochemical data from ∼9 Ma explosive silicic volcanism preserved in three syngenetic tuff beds from the Gatun. The magmatic evolution of the Gatun Formation is controlled by a series of magma mushes where pyroxene is the dominant early forming mafic mineral, with amphibole appearing only relatively late in the fractionation sequence. Our data show Gatun lavas exhibit a strong subduction signature, consistent with plate reconstruction models showing arc‐normal subduction from Costa Rica to Panama pre‐8.5 Ma. However, large ion lithophile elements are depleted in the Gatun Formation in comparison to other regional suites, indicative of a lower flux of subduction fluid to the Gatun Formation mantle source, which is explained by a shift toward magma generation by decompression following the collision of the arc with South America. Oblique subduction commencing ∼8.5 Ma resulted in the shutdown of normal arc activity throughout Panama. We interpret subsequent regional Quaternary adakitic volcanism as a response to this oblique subduction. The now more refractory mantle wedge required greater fluid flux in order to melt. The resultant volatile‐rich melts were more prone to deep fractionation of amphibole and garnet cumulates forming adakites. Deep fractionation was potentially enhanced by changing stress regimes on the upper plate caused by oblique subduction.
Distributed subglacial discharge drives significant submarine melt at a Greenland tidewater glacier
Authors: Fried M. J. , Catania G. A. , Bartholomaus T. C. , Duncan D. , Davis M. , Stearns L. A. , Nash J. , Shroyer E. , Sutherland D.
Published: October 2015

Submarine melt can account for substantial mass loss at tidewater glacier termini. However, the processes controlling submarine melt are poorly understood due to limited observations of submarine termini. Here at a tidewater glacier in central West Greenland, we identify subglacial discharge outlets and infer submarine melt across the terminus using direct observations of the submarine terminus face. We find extensive melting associated with small discharge outlets. While the majority of discharge is routed to a single, large channel, outlets not fed by large tributaries drive submarine melt rates in excess of 3.0 m d−1 and account for 85% of total estimated melt across the terminus. Nearly the entire terminus is undercut, which may intersect surface crevasses and promote calving. Severe undercutting constricts buoyant outflow plumes and may amplify melt. The observed morphology and melt distribution motivate more realistic treatments of terminus shape and subglacial discharge in submarine melt models.
Millennial‐scale oscillations between sea ice and convective deep water formation
Authors: Saha Raj
Published: October 2015

During the last ice age there were several quasiperiodic abrupt warming events. The climatic effects of the so‐called Dansgaard‐Oeschger (D‐O) events were felt globally, although the North Atlantic experienced the largest and most abrupt temperature anomalies. Similar but weaker oscillations also took place during the interglacial period. This paper proposes an auto‐oscillatory mechanism between sea ice and convective deep water formation in the North Atlantic as the source of the persistent cycles. A simple dynamical model is constructed by coupling and slightly modifying two existing models of ocean circulation and sea ice. The model exhibits mixed mode oscillations, consisting of decadal‐scale small‐amplitude oscillations and a large‐amplitude relaxation fluctuation. The decadal oscillations occur due to the insulating effect of sea ice and leads to periodic ventilation of heat from the polar ocean. Gradually, an instability builds up in the polar column and results in an abrupt initiation of convection and polar warming. The unstable convective state relaxes back to the small‐amplitude oscillations from where the process repeats in a self‐sustained manner. Freshwater pulses mimicking Heinrich events cause the oscillations to be grouped into packets of progressively weaker fluctuations, as observed in proxy records. Modulation of this stable oscillation mechanism by freshwater and insolation variations could account for the distribution and pacing of D‐O and Bond events. Physical aspects of the system such as sea ice extent and oceanic advective flow rates could determine the characteristic 1500 year time scale of D‐O events. The model results with respect to the structure of the water column in the Nordic seas during stadial and interstadial phases are in agreement with paleoproxy observations.
Copper(I)‐Catalyzed Reductive Cross‐Coupling of N‐Tosylhydrazones with Amides: A Straightforward Method for the Construction of C(sp3)N Amide Bonds from Aldehydes
Authors: Xu Peng , Han Fu‐She , Wang Yan‐Hua
Published: October 2015

A method for the one‐pot synthesis of substituted amides from aldehydes and amides is presented. Namely, condensation of aldehydes with N‐tosylhydrazide generated the N‐tosylhydrazones which were then reductively cross‐coupled in situ with primary or secondary amides in the presence of a copper catalyst to afford secondary or tertiary amides, respectively. The reaction proceeded efficiently for a wide range of aldehydes and amides under the optimized conditions, i.e., 10 mol% of tetrakis(acetonitrile)copper(I) tetrafluoroborate [Cu(CH3CN)4BF4], 1 mol% of tetra‐n‐butylammonium iodide [(n‐Bu)4NI], and sodium hydroxide [NaOH] as base in tetrahydrofuran (THF) at 80 °C. As a result, the method provides a straightforward route for the synthesis of substituted amides from readily available aldehydes via a transition metal‐catalyzed C(sp3)N amide bond forming reaction.

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Biodegradable and Renal Clearable Inorganic Nanoparticles
Authors: Ehlerding Emily B. , Chen Feng , Cai Weibo
Published: October 2015

Personalized treatment plans for cancer therapy have been at the forefront of oncology research for many years. With the advent of many novel nanoplatforms, this goal is closer to realization today than ever before. Inorganic nanoparticles hold immense potential in the field of nano‐oncology, but have considerable toxicity concerns that have limited their translation to date. In this review, an overview of emerging biologically safe inorganic nanoplatforms is provided, along with considerations of the challenges that need to be overcome for cancer theranostics with inorganic nanoparticles to become a reality. The clinical and preclinical studies of both biodegradable and renal clearable inorganic nanoparticles are discussed, along with their implications.
Hodgkin lymphoma: MOPP chemotherapy to PD‐1 blockade and beyond
Authors: Ansell Stephen M.
Published: October 2015

Hodgkin lymphoma is a rare lymphoid malignancy affecting ∼9,200 new patients in the United States annually. Progress in the management of this disease over the past 50 years has been remarkable and the prognosis of this malignancy has changed from a uniformly fatal process to one in which the vast majority of patients are expected to be cured. This remarkable progress has been due to the use of combination approaches incorporating chemotherapy and radiation therapy, and now more recently antibody‐drug conjugates and immune checkpoint inhibitors. The goal for the future is to develop treatment combinations that successfully treat all patients and markedly decrease the long‐term side effects. Am. J. Hematol. 91:109–112, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Melanopsin retinal ganglion cell loss in Alzheimer disease
Authors: La Morgia Chiara , Ross‐Cisneros Fred N. , Koronyo Yosef , Hannibal Jens , Gallassi Roberto , Cantalupo Gaetano , Sambati Luisa , Pan Billy X. , Tozer Kevin R. , Barboni Piero , Provini Federica , Avanzini Pietro , Carbonelli Michele , Pelosi Annalisa , Chui Helena , Liguori Rocco , Baruzzi Agostino , Koronyo‐Hamaoui Maya , Sadun Alfredo A. , Carelli Valerio
Published: October 2015

Objective

Melanopsin retinal ganglion cells (mRGCs) are photoreceptors driving circadian photoentrainment, and circadian dysfunction characterizes Alzheimer disease (AD). We investigated mRGCs in AD, hypothesizing that they contribute to circadian dysfunction.

Methods

We assessed retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness by optical coherence tomography (OCT) in 21 mild‐moderate AD patients, and in a subgroup of 16 we evaluated rest–activity circadian rhythm by actigraphy. We studied postmortem mRGCs by immunohistochemistry in retinas, and axons in optic nerve cross‐sections of 14 neuropathologically confirmed AD patients. We coimmunostained for retinal amyloid β (Aβ) deposition and melanopsin to locate mRGCs. All AD cohorts were compared with age‐matched controls.

Results

We demonstrated an age‐related optic neuropathy in AD by OCT, with a significant reduction of RNFL thickness (p = 0.038), more evident in the superior quadrant (p = 0.006). Axonal loss was confirmed in postmortem AD optic nerves. Abnormal circadian function characterized only a subgroup of AD patients. Sleep efficiency was significantly reduced in AD patients (p = 0.001). We also found a significant loss of mRGCs in postmortem AD retinal specimens (p = 0.003) across all ages and abnormal mRGC dendritic morphology and size (p = 0.003). In flat‐mounted AD retinas, Aβ accumulation was remarkably evident inside and around mRGCs.

Interpretation

We show variable degrees of rest–activity circadian dysfunction in AD patients. We also demonstrate age‐related loss of optic nerve axons and specifically mRGC loss and pathology in postmortem AD retinal specimens, associated with Aβ deposition. These results all support the concept that mRGC degeneration is a contributor to circadian rhythm dysfunction in AD. ANN NEUROL 2016;79:90–109
A Green's function approach to modeling molecular diffraction in the limit of ultra‐thin gratings
Authors: Brand Christian , Fiedler Johannes , Juffmann Thomas , Sclafani Michele , Knobloch Christian , Scheel Stefan , Lilach Yigal , Cheshnovsky Ori , Arndt Markus
Published: October 2015

In recent years, matter‐wave diffraction at nanomechanical structures has been used by several research groups to explore the quantum nature of atoms and molecules, to prove the existence of weakly bound molecules or to explore atom‐surface interactions with high sensitivity. The particles' Casimir‐Polder interaction with the diffraction grating leads to significant changes in the amplitude distribution of the diffraction pattern. This becomes particularly intriguing in the thin‐grating limit, i.e. when the size of a complex molecule becomes comparable with the grating thickness and its rotation period comparable to the transit time through the mask. Here we analyze the predictive power of a Green's function scattering model and the constraints imposed by the finite control over real‐world experimental factors on the nanoscale.

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Loading of Vesicles into Soft Amphiphilic Nanotubes using Osmosis
Authors: Erne Petra M. , van Bezouwen Laura S. , Štacko Peter , van Dijken Derk Jan , Chen Jiawen , Stuart Marc C. A. , Boekema Egbert J. , Feringa Ben L.
Published: October 2015

The facile assembly of higher‐order nanoarchitectures from simple building blocks is demonstrated by the loading of vesicles into soft amphiphilic nanotubes using osmosis. The nanotubes are constructed from rigid interdigitated bilayers which are capped with vesicles comprising phospholipid‐based flexible bilayers. When a hyperosmotic gradient is applied to these vesicle‐capped nanotubes, the closed system loses water and the more flexible vesicle bilayer is pulled inwards. This leads to inclusion of vesicles inside the nanotubes without affecting the tube structure, showing controlled reorganization of the self‐assembled multicomponent system upon a simple osmotic stimulus.
Thermally Tunable Hydrogels Displaying Angle‐Independent Structural Colors
Authors: Ohtsuka Yumiko , Seki Takahiro , Takeoka Yukikazu
Published: October 2015

We report the preparation of thermally tunable hydrogels displaying angle‐independent structural colors. The porous structures were formed with short‐range order using colloidal amorphous array templates and a small amount of carbon black (CB). The resultant porous hydrogels prepared using colloidal amorphous arrays without CB appeared white, whereas the hydrogels with CB revealed bright structural colors. The brightly colored hydrogels rapidly changed hues in a reversible manner, and the hues varied widely depending on the water temperature. Moreover, the structural colors were angle‐independent under diffusive lighting because of the isotropic nanostructure generated from the colloidal amorphous arrays.
Sultones and Sultines via a Julia–Kocienski Reaction of Epoxides
Authors: Smith Geoffrey M. T. , Burton Paul M. , Bray Christopher D.
Published: October 2015

The development of the homologous Julia–Kocienski reaction has led to the discovery of two new reaction modes of epoxides with sulfones. These pathways allow rapid and direct access to a range of γ‐sultones and γ‐sultines.
Structure and properties of polylactide toughened by polyurethane prepolymer
Authors: Zhang Xu , Koranteng Ernest , Wu Zhengshun , Wu Qiangxian
Published: October 2015

In this study, polyurethane prepolymer (PUP) was prepared by the reaction of Poly‐1,4‐butylene glycol adipate diol (PBA) and 4,4′‐Methylenedi‐p‐phenyl diisocyanate (MDI). The as‐prepared PUP was then blended with Polylactide (PLA), and the impact of the PUP on the blends regarding their structure and properties were thoroughly analyzed. Also, PLA was blended with PU powder without isocyanate groups (NCO) as an important control sample (PLAPW) to study the interface interaction of the blends. Obvious yield and neck stretch were obtained after the addition of PUP, and the elongation ratio at break increased from 2.9% to 231.5%. In contrast, the mechanical properties of PLAPW decreased significantly mainly due to the simple physical blending of the polymers without the formation of covalent bonds. Also, the results of the FTIR, SEM, DSC, and DMA analysis showed that the reactions of NCO groups in PUP with the terminal hydroxyl or carboxyl groups in PLA significantly improved the compatibility of the PUP and PLA blend. Compared to pristine PLA, the highest decomposition temperature of the PLA and PUP blend (PLAPU) increased from 359.3°C to 362.6°C. Additionally the thermal stability and mechanical properties of the blended materials were exceedingly improved even with only 5% of PUP in the blended materials. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2016, 133, 42983.
Impact of number of [18F]fluorodeoxyglucose-PET-positive lymph nodes on survival of patients receiving neoadjuvant chemotherapy and surgery for oesophageal cancer
Authors: Miyata H , Yamasaki M , Makino T , Tatsumi M , Miyazaki Y , Takahashi T , Kurokawa Y , Takiguchi S , Mori M , Doki Y
Published: October 2015

Background

[18F]fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG)-PET has been used to evaluate the response of primary tumours to neoadjuvant therapy for oesophageal cancer. The clinical significance of the number of PET-positive nodes before and after therapy has not been investigated previously.

Methods

[ 18F]FDG-PET was performed before and 2–3 weeks after completion of neoadjuvant chemotherapy to identify the number of PET-positive nodes, and these numbers were assessed in relation to metabolic changes in the primary tumour.

Results

Of 302 patients in total, 90 had no PET-positive nodes, 83 had one, 59 had two and 70 patients had three or more positive nodes before therapy. After treatment, the numbers were: none in 207 patients, one in 59, two in 20 and three or more in 16 patients. The number of PET-positive nodes after treatment was influenced by both the number of PET-positive nodes before therapy and the response to preoperative therapy, and correlated with the number of metastatic lymph nodes. Overall survival was longer in patients who had no PET-positive nodes after treatment than in those who had one or more. Multivariable analysis identified the numbers of PET-positive nodes before and after chemotherapy as independent prognostic factors, together with clinical response, tumour depth and lymph node involvement.

Conclusion

The number of PET-positive nodes after treatment correlated with survival in patients with oesophageal cancer who underwent neoadjuvant chemotherapy.
The need to belong and self‐disclosure in positive word‐of‐mouth behaviours: The moderating effect of self–brand connection
Authors: Sicilia Maria , Delgado‐Ballester Elena , Palazon Mariola
Published: October 2015

Word of mouth (WOM) is an important information source for consumers. Nowadays, many consumers promote and spread the word about their preferred brands, thereby influencing others' attitudes and behaviours. Based on a social behaviour perspective and the need to belong theory, this research proposes that the individual's need to belong and the individual's level of self‐disclosure increase their probability of engaging in positive WOM behaviour. The moderating role of self–brand connection in the aforementioned relationships is also analysed. In the study conducted, users of a well‐known baby food brand (n = 851) were surveyed. The results revealed that the individuals' need to belong fostered the desire to talk to others about their preferred brand. A negative moderating effect of self–brand connection was also observed. As the connection with the brand is lower, the motivation to engage in positive WOM will be more related to personal characteristics, such as their need to belong and level of self‐disclosure. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Specificity of Lipoprotein Chaperones for the Characteristic Lipidated Structural Motifs of their Cognate Lipoproteins
Authors: Mejuch Tom , van Hattum Hilde , Triola Gemma , Jaiswal Mamta , Waldmann Herbert
Published: October 2015

Lipoprotein‐binding chaperones mediate intracellular transport of lipidated proteins and determine their proper localisation and functioning. Understanding of the exact structural parameters that determine recognition and transport by different chaperones is of major interest. We have synthesised several lipid‐modified peptides, representative of different lipoprotein classes, and have investigated their binding to the relevant chaperones PDEδ, UNC119a, UNC119b, and galectins‐1 and ‐3. Our results demonstrate that PDEδ recognises S‐isoprenylated C‐terminal peptidic structures but not N‐myristoylated peptides. In contrast, UNC119 proteins bind only mono‐N‐myristoylated, but do not recognise doubly lipidated and S‐isoprenylated peptides at the C terminus. For galectins‐1 and ‐3, neither binding to N‐acylated, nor to C‐terminally prenylated peptides could be determined. These results shed light on the specificity of the chaperone‐mediated cellular lipoprotein transport systems.
Matrix‐based three‐dimensional culture of buffalo mammary epithelial cells showed higher induction of genes related to milk protein and fatty acid metabolism
Authors: Shandilya Umesh K. , Sharma Ankita , Sodhi Monika , Kapila Neha , Kishore Amit , Mohanty Ashok , Kataria Ranjit , Malakar Dhruva , Mukesh Manishi
Published: October 2015

Demanding transcriptomic studies in livestock animal species could be replaced by good in vitro models mimicking the function of mammary gland. Mammary epithelial cells (MEC) are the functional unit of the mammary gland. Extracellular matrix is known to be a key factor providing normal homeostasis in three‐dimensional (3D) environment as important signals are lost when cells are cultured in two‐dimensional (2D) environment. The aims of this study were to establish a buffalo mammary epithelial cells (BMECs) in 3D culture using extracellular matrix and to determine whether such a 3D culture model has different expression pattern than 2D counterpart. The purified MEC generated after several passages were used to establish 3D culture using Geltrex matrix. The expression of milk casein genes viz., alpha S1‐casein (CSN1S1), alpha S2‐casein (CSN1S2), beta‐casein (CSN2), kappa‐casein (CSN3); and fatty acid metabolism genes viz., butyrophilin (BTN1A1), glycerol‐3‐phosphate acyltransferase (GPAM), fatty acid‐binding protein 3 (FABP3), and stearoyl‐CoA desaturase (SCD) was assessed in 3D culture in comparison to traditional monolayer culture using qRT‐PCR. Notable morphological differences were observed for BMECs grown in 3D culture in comparison to 2D culture. Morphologically, epithelial structures grown in Geltrex matrix (3D) environment showed enhanced functional differentiation in comparison to 2D culture. In 3D culture, lumen and dome‐like structures were formed by day 5, whereas polarized acinus‐like structure were formed within 15 days of culturing. The expression data showed higher mRNA induction of milk casein and fatty acid metabolism genes in 10‐day‐old 3D BMECs culture in comparison to 2D monolayer culture. The result suggests that 3D organization of epithelial cells has favorable effect on induction of milk and fatty acid metabolism‐related genes. Therefore, matrix‐based 3D culture of MEC that recapitulate the structural and functional context of normal tissues could provide a better in vitro model to understand the mammary gland functioning of buffaloes.
Unwinding DNA and RNA with Synthetic Complexes: On the Way to Artificial Helicases
Authors: Gasiorek Martin , Schneider Hans‐Jörg
Published: October 2015

Synthetic helicases can be designed on the basis of ligands that bind more strongly to single‐stranded nucleic acids than to double‐stranded nucleic acids. This can be achieved with ligands containing phenyl groups, which intercalate into single strands, but due to their small size not into double strands. Moreover, two phenyl rings are combined with a distance that allows bis‐intercalation with only single strands and not double strands. In this respect, such ligands also mimic single‐strand binding (SSB) proteins. Exploration with more than 23 ligands, mostly newly synthesised, shows that the distance between the phenyl rings and between those and the linker influence the DNA unwinding efficiency, which can reach a melting point decrease of almost ΔTm=50 °C at much lower concentrations than that with any other known artificial helicases. Conformational pre‐organisation of the ligand plays a decisive role in optimal efficiency. Substituents at the phenyl rings have a large effect, and increase, for example, in the order of H<F<Cl<Br, which illustrates the strong role of dispersive interactions in intercalation. Studies with homopolymers revealed significant selectivity: for example, with a ligand concentration of 40 μM at 35 °C, only GC double strands melt (ΔTm=48 °C), whereas the AT strand remains untouched, and with poly(rA)–poly(rU) as an RNA model one observes unfolding at 29 °C with a concentration of only 30 μM.
Aromatic Sulfonium Polyoxomolybdates: Solid‐State Photochromic Materials with Tunable Properties
Authors: Kumar Ashwani , Devi Manisha , Mamidi Narsimha , Gonsalves Kenneth E. , Pradeep Chullikkattil P.
Published: October 2015

A new aromatic sulfonium counter‐ion motif for polyoxometalate (POM) clusters with potential for structural and electronic fine‐tuning has been designed. Its two derivatives 4‐hydroxyphenyl dimethylsulfonium triflate (HPDST) and 4‐(allyloxy)phenyl dimethylsulfonium triflate (APDST) exhibit ionic liquid behaviors under ambient conditions. HPDST and APDST are used to develop a series of aromatic sulfonium POM hybrids (HPDS/APDS)n[XMo12O40] (HPDS and APDS are the cations of HPDST and APDST, respectively; X=P or Si; n=3 or 4), which are tested for photochromic behavior. On exposure to UV light, these POM hybrids undergo color change from yellow to green/blue. The coloration kinetics half lives (t1/2) are less for APDS‐based hybrids than for HPDS‐based hybrids, suggesting that alkyl substitution on the phenolic group helps to fine‐tune the electron availability on the sulfonium moiety and hence to control the photochromic behavior of the POM hybrids. The t1/2 values of these hybrids are considerably lower than those of the reported aliphatic sulfonium POM hybrids. We have also demonstrated the application of photoreduced POM hybrids as catalysts for the reduction of 4‐nitrophenol to 4‐aminophenol.
Risk Assessment of Aquifer Salinization in a Large‐Scale Coastal Irrigation Scheme, Italy
Authors: Zaccaria Daniele , Passarella Giuseppe , D'Agostino Daniela , Giordano Raffaele , Solis Samuel Sandoval
Published: October 2015

This paper describes a study conducted on a coastal agricultural area of southern Italy to assess the impending risk of aquifer degradation related to intensive groundwater pumping by farmers. It occurs that farmers rely on groundwater pumping to offset the inadequate irrigation delivery service provided by the local water management agency. The study area is intensively farmed by small land‐holding growers with high‐value horticultural crops, whose irrigation deliveries are supplied by a gravity‐fed water distribution system operated by a local water users' organization. The soil and aquifer degradation hazards were appraised using a simplified environmental risk assessment procedure that allowed identifying the risk‐generating processes, assessing the magnitude of impacts, and estimating the overall risks significance. The investigations revealed significant aquifer salinity increase during the past years. The stakeholders' perspective on agricultural water use was collected through field interviews, and was framed using a fuzzy cognitive map, which revealed the farmers' propensity to pump groundwater rather than rely on rotational deliveries from the surface distribution system. Finally, some preliminary risk mitigation options were appraised by exploring the growers' response to possible changes of irrigation deliveries by the water users' organization. The presented study consisted of multi‐annual observations, data analysis, and modeling efforts, which jointly proved to be useful to analyze the main drivers to stakeholders' decisions and their long‐term impacts on water resources use and management.
The impact of stage, grade, and mucinous histology on the efficacy of systemic chemotherapy in adenocarcinomas of the appendix: Analysis of the National Cancer Data Base
Authors: Asare Elliot A. , Compton Carolyn C. , Hanna Nader N. , Kosinski Lauren A. , Washington Mary Kay , Kakar Sanjay , Weiser Martin R. , Overman Michael J.
Published: October 2015

BACKGROUND

Adenocarcinomas of the appendix represent a heterogeneous disease depending on the presence of mucinous histology, histologic grade, and stage. In the current study, the authors sought to explore the interplay of these factors with systemic chemotherapy in a large population data set.

METHODS

Patients in the National Cancer Data Base (NCDB) who were diagnosed with mucinous, nonmucinous, and signet ring cell‐type appendiceal neoplasms from 1985 through 2006 were selected. Multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression models were developed.

RESULTS

A total of 11,871 patients met the inclusion criteria for the current study: 50.3% had mucinous neoplasms, 40.5% had nonmucinous neoplasms, and 9.2% had signet ring cell‐type neoplasms. The 5‐year overall survival (OS) stratified by grade was similar among patients with American Joint Committee on Cancer stage I to stage III disease but not for those with stage IV disease. The median OS for patients with stage IV mucinous and nonmucinous tumors was 6.4 years and 2.3 years, respectively, for those with well differentiated histology (P<.0001) and was 1.5 years and 0.8 years, respectively, for those with poorly differentiated histology (P<.0001). In multivariable modeling for stage I to III disease, adjuvant chemotherapy improved OS for both mucinous and nonmucinous histologies, with hazard ratios (HRs) of 0.78 (95% confidence interval [95% CI], 0.68‐0.89 [P = .0002]) and 0.83 (95% CI, 0.74‐0.94 [P = .002]), respectively. For patients with stage IV disease, systemic chemotherapy significantly improved OS for those with nonmucinous (HR, 0.72; 95% CI, 0.64‐0.82 [P<.0001]) but not mucinous (HR, 0.95; 95% CI, 0.86‐1.04 [P = .2) histologies, although this was grade‐dependent. The median OS for chemotherapy versus no chemotherapy was 6.4 years versus 6.5 years (P value not significant) for patients with mucinous, well‐differentiated tumors and 1.6 years versus 1.0 years (P = .0007) for patients with mucinous, poorly differentiated tumors.

CONCLUSIONS

Adjuvant chemotherapy demonstrated a significant OS benefit regardless of histology. However, for patients with stage IV disease, the benefit of systemic chemotherapy varied by tumor histology and grade, with patients with well‐differentiated, mucinous, appendiceal adenocarcinomas deriving no survival benefit from systemic chemotherapy. Cancer 2016;122:213–221. © 2015 American Cancer Society.
An enhanced role for palliative care in the multidisciplinary approach to high‐risk head and neck cancer
Authors: Schenker Yael , Arnold Robert M. , Bauman Julie E. , Heron Dwight E. , Johnson Jonas T.
Published: October 2015

Patients with advanced head and neck cancer encounter a tremendous health care burden. Even successful therapy may leave patients with treatment‐related toxicity. Early evaluation and assistance by palliative care services can improve outcomes.
On the Energetics of Ions in Carbon and Gold Nanotubes
Authors: Mohammadzadeh Leila , Goduljan Aleksej , Juarez Fernanda , Quaino Paola , Santos Elizabeth , Schmickler Wolfgang
Published: October 2015

We investigate the insertion of halide and alkali atoms into narrow single‐walled carbon nanotubes with diameters <9 Å by density functional theory; both chiral and non‐chiral tubes are considered. The atoms are stored in the form of ions; the concomitant charge transfer affects the band structure and makes originally semiconducting tubes conducting. The electrostatic interaction between a charge and the walls of the tube is explicitly calculated. The insertion energies and the positions of the ions are determined by a competition between electrostatic energy and Pauli repulsion. For comparison, we consider ions in gold nanotubes. Alkali ions follow the same principles in gold as in carbon tubes, but chloride is specifically adsorbed inside gold tubes.