bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ChemInform Abstract: Laccase‐Catalyzed Stereoselective Oxidative Ring Opening of 2,5‐Dialkylfurans into 2‐Ene‐1,4‐diones Using Air as an Oxidant.
Authors: Asta Chimene , Conrad Juergen , Mika Sabine , Beifuss Uwe
Published: February 2012

The laccase‐catalyzed ring cleavage of symmetrically and asymmetrically substituted 2,5‐dialkylfurans (I) yields (Z)‐enediones (II) in a diastereoselective manner.
ChemInform Abstract: Efficient Synthesis of Carbonyl Compounds: Oxidation of Azides and Alcohols Catalyzed by Vanadium Pentoxide in Water Using tert‐Butylhydroperoxide.
Authors: Alagiri Kaliyamoorthy , Prabhu Kandikere Ramaiah
Published: February 2012

Benzylic azides are conveniently oxidized to the corresponding acids or ketones.
ChemInform Abstract: Polymer‐Mounted N3=P(MeNCH2CH2)3N: A Green, Efficient and Recyclable Catalyst for Room‐Temperature Transesterifications and Amidations of Unactivated Esters.
Authors: Chintareddy Venkat Reddy , Ho Hung‐An , Sadow Aaron D. , Verkade John G.
Published: February 2012

The processes are investigated in the presence of azaphosphatranes (I) and (II).
ChemInform Abstract: Synthesis of Thiol Esters by the Reaction of Ricinoleic Acid with Thiols under Solvent‐Free Conditions.
Authors: Lara Renata G. , Rodrigues Dielson C. , Mendes Samuel R. , Panatieri Rodrigo B. , Jacob Raquel G. , Alves Diego , Lenardao Eder J. , Perin Gelson
Published: February 2012

The synthesis of thiol esters (III) and (VI) from aliphatic and aromatic carboxylic acids and aliphatic as well as aromatic thiols is studied.
ChemInform Abstract: An Efficient Catalytic Method for Fulvene Synthesis.
Authors: Coskun Necdet , Erden Ihsan
Published: February 2012

The pyrrolidine‐catalyzed condensation of carbonyl compounds with cyclopentadiene (I) proceeds readily for a wide diversity of aldehydes and ketones in methanol/water mixtures, affording the product fulvenes in reasonable yields simply by vacuum filtration.
ChemInform Abstract: Cobalt‐Catalyzed 1,4‐Hydrobutadienylation of 1‐Aryl‐1,3‐dienes with 2,3‐Dimethyl‐1,3‐butadiene.
Authors: Bohn Martin A. , Schmidt Anastasia , Hilt Gerhard , Dindaroglu Mehmet , Schmalz Hans‐Guenther
Published: February 2012

A new C—C bond formation is presented in the Co‐catalyzed reaction of arylbutadienes, e.g. (I), with dimethylbutadiene (II).
ChemInform Abstract: Lithium Perchlorate—Nitromethane‐Promoted Alkylation of Anilines with Arylmethanols.
Authors: Zhou Jun , Mao Hai‐Feng , Wang Lu , Zou Jian‐Ping , Zhang Wei
Published: February 2012

The selective formation of N‐alkylated anilines (III), double Friedel—Crafts alkylation products such as (IV) and (VI) or N—C‐alkylated compound (V) is achieved by changing the temperature, the stoichiometry of reactants, and the time.
ChemInform Abstract: C2‐Symmetric Pyrrolidine‐Based Chiral Ammonium Salts as a Phase‐Transfer Catalyst.
Authors: Ishikawa Tatsuya , Nagata Kazuhiro , Kani Sachiko , Matsuo Mamoru , Sano Daisuke , Kanemitsu Takuya , Miyazaki Michiko , Itoh Takashi
Published: February 2012

Pyrrolidinium salts, e.g. (I), are developed as novel chiral phase‐transfer catalysts with a more simplified structure.
ChemInform Abstract: Hydroxymethylation of α‐Substituted Nitroacetates.
Authors: Ji Cong‐Bin , Liu Yun‐Lin , Cao Zhong‐Yan , Zhang Yi‐Yu , Zhou Jian
Published: February 2012

A highly efficient procedure becomes possible by the use of paraformaldehyde under conditions A).
ChemInform Abstract: Convenient Synthesis and Isolation of Trifluoromethylthio‐Substituted Building Blocks.
Authors: Harsanyi Antal , Dorko Eva , Csapo Agnes , Bako Tibor , Peltz Csaba , Rabai Jozsef
Published: February 2012

The convenient and efficient protocol presented affords trifluoromethyl sulfides (III) in fair to good yields.
ChemInform Abstract: (E)‐Selective Isomerization of Stilbenes and Stilbenoids Through Reversible Hydroboration.
Authors: Gray Erin E. , Rabenold Lake E. , Goess Brian C.
Published: February 2012

A novel variant concerning hydroboration of stilbenes is developed and the process is applied to convert E/Z‐mixtures stereoselectively to the (E)‐isomers including the trimethyl derivative (Va) of resveratrol (Vb).
ChemInform Abstract: CuI/PPh3/PEG—Water: An Efficient Catalytic System for Cross‐Coupling Reaction of Aryl Iodides and Alkynes.
Authors: Chen Gong , Xie Jianwei , Weng Jiang , Zhu Xinhai , Zheng Zhanchao , Cai Jiwen , Wan Yiqian
Published: February 2012

Aryl iodides and terminal alkynes are coupled under microwave irradiation using the catalytic system CuI/PPh3/PEG—Water.
ChemInform Abstract: An Efficient Protocol for Copper‐Free Palladium‐Catalyzed Sonogashira Cross‐Coupling in Aqueous Media at Low Temperatures.
Authors: Marziale Alexander N. , Schlueter Johannes , Eppinger Joerg
Published: February 2012

Aryl iodides are more reactive than the bromides and various substrates can be successfully coupled under conditions A).
ChemInform Abstract: Ring Expansion of Cyclopropylbenzocyclobutenes En Route to Benzocycloheptenes.
Authors: Fukui Nobuaki , Hamura Toshiyuki , Ohmori Ken , Suzuki Keisuke
Published: February 2012

A facile synthesis of highly functionalized seven‐membered ring compounds is described.
ChemInform Abstract: Cationic Palladium(II)‐Catalyzed Synthesis of 2‐Substituted 3‐Hydroxymethylbenzo[b]furans.
Authors: Wang Huan , Han Xiuling , Lu Xiyan
Published: February 2012

Starting from readily accessible 2‐alkynylphenols and aldehydes, a novel process is developed which can be extended to other activated carbonyl compounds.
ChemInform Abstract: Iodine‐Catalyzed Conjugate Addition of Indoles onto En‐1,4‐dione: A Novel Synthesis of 3‐(1‐(1H‐Indol‐3‐yl)‐2‐oxo‐2‐phenylethyl)indolin‐2‐ones as Antibacterial and Antifungal Agents.
Authors: Reddy B. V. Subba , Rajeswari N. , Sarangapani M. , Reddy G. Roopa , Madan Ch. , Kumar K. Pranay , Rao M. Srinivasa
Published: February 2012

Some of the compounds synthesized show moderate antibacterial and antifungal properties.
ChemInform Abstract: A Tandem Route to the Synthesis of Carbazolo[1,2‐b]carbazoles.
Authors: Chaitanya T. Krishna , Nagarajan Rajagopal
Published: February 2012

Sequential Michael addition of 2‐methylindole to the carbazole‐type substrates (I), dehydration of the methyl group with the carbonyl group, and subsequent dehydration/ aromatization provides moderate yields of the title compounds (III), which represent the skeleton of carbazole alkaloids.
ChemInform Abstract: Design and Synthesis of 2‐(1,3‐Dioxoisoindolin‐2‐yl)‐N‐(4‐oxo‐2‐substitutedthiazolidin‐3‐yl) Acetamide Derivatives as Potential Anticonvulsant Agents.
Authors: Nikalje Anna Pratima G. , Khan Firoz Kalam , Ghodke Mangesh
Published: February 2012

Keeping in view the pharmacophoric requirement, the title derivatives (III) are synthesized by coupling the dioxoindolin moiety with the thiazolidinone nucleus, linked by an amide spacer.
ChemInform Abstract: A One‐Pot Efficient Four‐Component Reaction for the Synthesis of 2‐(Arylamino)‐2‐(5‐aryl‐1,3,4‐oxadiazol‐2‐yl)propyl Benzoate (or Acetate) Derivatives.
Authors: Ramazani Ali , Ahmadi Yavar , Malekzadeh Asemeh Mashhadi , Rezaei Aram
Published: February 2012

The multicomponent reaction between oxopropylbenzoate(acetate) (I), (VI), primary amines (II), (N‐isocyanimino)triphenylphosphorane (III), and aromatic carboxylic acids (IV) proceeds smoothly at room temperature under neutral conditions to afford the sterically congested oxadiazole derivatives (V) and (VII), resp.
ChemInform Abstract: Chiral Pyridin‐3‐ones and Pyridines: Syntheses of Enantiopure 2,4‐Disubstituted 6‐Hydroxy‐1,6‐dihydro‐2H‐pyridin‐3‐ones, 2,3‐Disubstituted 4‐Iodopyridines, and Enantiopure 2,3‐Disubstituted 4‐Pyridinemethanols.
Authors: Husain Irfan , Saquib Mohammad , Bajpai Vikas , Kumar Brijesh , Shaw Arun K.
Published: February 2012

A new route to enantiopure dihydropyridines of type (VI) and (XIII) is reported.
ChemInform Abstract: Broensted Acid‐Catalyzed Enantioselective Friedlaender Condensations: Achiral Amine Promoter Plays Crucial Role in the Stereocontrol.
Authors: Ren Lei , Lei Tao , Gong Liu‐Zhu
Published: February 2012

Use of 2‐naphthylamine as promoter in the enantioselective Friedlaender condensation of o‐aminobenzaldehydes with p‐substituted cyclohexanones provides access to tetrahydroacridine derivatives in high yields and excellent enantioselectivity (up to 95%).
ChemInform Abstract: Investigation Towards an Efficient Synthesis of Benzo[g]isoquinoline‐1,5,10(2H)‐triones.
Authors: Mbala Blaise Mavinga , Jacob Jan , Claes Pieter , Mudogo Virima , De Kimpe Norbert
Published: February 2012

A two‐step synthesis of trioxo‐tetrahydrobenzoisoquinolinecarboxylates (III) is achieved by oxidative coupling of dihydroxynaphthalenecarboxylate (I) with enaminoesters (II) followed by cyclization reaction.
ChemInform Abstract: Efficient Access to Novel Hexahydro‐chromene and Tetrahydro‐pyrano[2,3‐d]pyrimidine‐annulated Benzo‐δ‐sultones via a Domino Knoevenagel‐hetero‐Diels—Alder Reaction in Water.
Authors: Ghandi Mehdi , Mohammadimehr Elham , Sadeghzadeh Masoud , Bozcheloei Abolfazl Hasani
Published: February 2012

A one‐pot synthetic approach for the preparation of the title compounds in water under catalyst‐free conditions is reported.
ChemInform Abstract: Design of Potent and Selective GPR119 Agonists for Type II Diabetes.
Authors: Szewczyk Jason W. , et al. et al.
Published: February 2012

Dual termini optimization of a bis‐piperidine‐based GPR119 agonist affords an analogue possessing improved potency, selectivity, and formulation profile, but modest physical properties.
ChemInform Abstract: Design and Synthesis of Potent, Orally‐Active DGAT‐1 Inhibitors Containing a Dioxino[2,3‐d]pyrimidine Core.
Authors: Dow Robert L. , et al. et al.
Published: February 2012

An efficient homochiral synthesis of target compound (X) is described.
ChemInform Abstract: Design and Synthesis of Novel Pyrazole‐Based Lp‐PLA2 Inhibitors.
Authors: Wang Yi , Xu Weiren , Shao Hua , Xie Yafei , Wang Jianwu
Published: February 2012

A 10‐step convergent synthesis of a series of novel pyrazole‐based lipoprotein‐associated phospholipase A2 inhibitors (X) (5 examples) is described.
ChemInform Abstract: Lewis Acid Promoted Three‐Component Reactions of Propargylic Alcohols with 2‐Butynedioates and Secondary Amines.
Authors: Yin Guangwei , Zhu Yuanxun , Lu Ping , Wang Yanguang
Published: February 2012

The title reaction allows a new and efficient method to prepare functionalized dihydroazepines.
ChemInform Abstract: Asymmetric Synthesis of Enantiomerically Pure 1,4‐Di‐ and 1,1,4‐Trisubstituted Tetrahydro‐1H‐3‐benzazepines.
Authors: Sarkar Soumya , Schepmann Dirk , Wuensch Bernhard
Published: February 2012

Enantiomerically pure 3‐benzazepines such as (V), (XI), or (XIV) are prepared from tricyclic lactams (I) or (VI).
ChemInform Abstract: Catalyst‐Free Regioselective Hydrostannation of Arynes.
Authors: Spiteri Christian , Burnley James , Moses John E.
Published: February 2012

Arynes, generated in situ from o‐trimethylsilylphenyl triflates or anthranilic acid, undergo regioselective hydrostannation with tributyl‐ or triphenyltin hydride in one pot.
ChemInform Abstract: Synthesis and Bioactivities of Andrographolide Derivatives: New (—)‐Limonidilactone Analogues.
Authors: Xu Haiwei , Jiang Pingjuan , Li Weiyi , Wang Junfeng , Liu Hongmin
Published: February 2012

The key‐step of the respective syntheses is an oxo‐Michael addition reaction.
ChemInform Abstract: Selective Cholinesterase Inhibition by Lanostane Triterpenes from Fruiting Bodies of Ganoderma lucidum.
Authors: Lee IkSoo , Ahn BoRa , Choi JaeSue , Hattori Masao , Min ByungSun , Bae KiHwan
Published: February 2012

Two new lanostane triterpenes, methyl ganoderate A acetonide (I) and butyl ganoderate H (II) are isolated from the fruiting bodies of Ganoderma lucidum along with 16 known compounds.
ChemInform Abstract: Reproductive Regulating Pheromones of Queen Ant: A Short and Versatile Synthesis of 3,11‐Dimethylheptacosane (VII)
Authors: Lee Jinwoo , Lee Hwajong , Sohn Jeong‐Hun
Published: February 2012

involving metathesis reactions for the preparation of diene fragments (III) and (V) as the key steps
ChemInform Abstract: Thermoelectric Phenomena, Materials, and Applications
Authors: Tritt Terry M.
Published: February 2012

Review: 47 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Metallo‐Helical Complexes. Resolutely Pure Helices
Authors: Aldrich‐Wright Janice R.
Published: February 2012

Review: 13 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Supramolecular Coordination: Predesigned Metallacycles and Metallacages via Self‐Assembly
Authors: Stang Peter J.
Published: February 2012

Review: 63 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Asymmetric Catalysis with Peptides
Authors: Wennemers Helma
Published: February 2012

Review: 82 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Oligoazobenzenophanes — Synthesis, Photochemistry and Properties
Authors: Reuter Raphael , Wegner Hermann A.
Published: February 2012

Review: 67 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: New Carbon‐ and Sulfur‐Based Ligands in Catalysis
Authors: Dorta Reto
Published: February 2012

Review: 71 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Catalytic Enantioselective Allylation of Carbonyl Compounds and Imines
Authors: Yus Miguel , Gonzalez‐Gomez Jose C. , Foubelo Francisco
Published: February 2012

Review: 261 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Asymmetric Inverse‐Electron‐Demand Hetero‐Diels—Alder Reaction via Enamine‐Metal Lewis Acid Bifunctional Catalysis
Authors: Xu Zhenghu , Wang Hong
Published: February 2012

Review: ca. 50 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Modulation of the Catalytic Activity of Porphyrins by Lipid‐ and Surfactant‐Containing Nanostructures
Authors: Nantes Iseli L. , Duran Nelson , Pinto Sandra M. S. , da Silva Fabiana B. , de Souza Juliana S. , Isoda Noemia , Luz Roberto A. S. , de Oliveira Tiara G. , Fernandes Vinicius G.
Published: February 2012

Review: 82 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Transition Metal Nanoparticle Catalysis in Ionic Liquids
Authors: Scholten Jackson D. , Leal Barbara Caroline , Dupont Jairton
Published: February 2012

Review: 193 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Aqueous Solubility of Crystalline and Amorphous Drugs: Challenges in Measurement
Authors: Murdande Sharad B. , Pikal Michael J. , Shanker Ravi M. , Bogner Robin H.
Published: February 2012

Review: 91 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Conjugates of Abscisic Acid, Brassinosteroids, Ethylene, Gibberellins, and Jasmonates
Authors: Piotrowska Alicja , Bajguz Andrzej
Published: February 2012

Review: about 100 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: DNA Origami: A Quantum Leap for Self‐Assembly of Complex Structures
Authors: Toerring Thomas , Voigt Niels V. , Nangreave Jeanette , Yan Hao , Gothelf Kurt V.
Published: February 2012

Review: 76 refs.
Electrophoretic Deposition of a Reduced Graphene–Au Nanoparticle Composite Film as Counter Electrode for CdS Quantum Dot‐Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Zhu Guang , Pan Likun , Sun Hengchao , Liu Xinjuan , Lv Tian , Lu Ting , Yang Jie , Sun Zhuo
Published: February 2012

A reduced graphene (RG)‐Au nanoparticle composite film is successfully fabricated by electrophoretic deposition and used as counter electrode for quantum dot‐sensitized solar cells. The RG‐Au composite is prepared by one‐step microwave‐assisted reduction of chloroaurate in alkaline solution with graphite oxide dispersion. Under one sun illumination (AM 1.5 G, 100 mW cm−2), the cell with a RG‐Au counter electrode shows an energy conversion efficiency of 1.36 %, which is higher than those of cells employing conventional Pt or Au counter electrodes, due to the superior combination of highly catalytic Au nanoparticles and the conductive graphene network structure.
Water Oxidation by Electrodeposited Cobalt Oxides—Role of Anions and Redox‐Inert Cations in Structure and Function of the Amorphous Catalyst
Authors: Risch Marcel , Klingan Katharina , Ringleb Franziska , Chernev Petko , Zaharieva Ivelina , Fischer Anna , Dau Holger
Published: February 2012

For the production of nonfossil fuels, water oxidation by inexpensive cobalt‐based catalysts is of high interest. Films for the electrocatalysis of water oxidation were obtained by oxidative self‐assembly (electrodeposition) from aqueous solutions containing, apart from Co, either K, Li or Ca with either a phosphate, acetate or chloride anion. X‐ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) at the Co K‐edge revealed clusters of edge‐sharing CoO6 octahedra in all films, but the size or structural disorder of the Co‐oxido clusters differed. Whereas potassium binding is largely unspecific, CaCo3O4 cubanes, which resemble the CaMn3O4 cubane of the biological catalyst in oxygenic photosynthesis, may form, as suggested by XAS at the Ca K‐edge. Cyclic voltammograms in a potassium phosphate buffer at pH 7 revealed that no specific combination of anions and redox‐inactive cations is required for catalytic water oxidation. However, the anion type modulates not only the size (or order) of the Co‐oxido clusters, but also electrodeposition rates, redox potentials, the capacity for oxidative charging, and catalytic currents. On these grounds, structure–activity relations are discussed.
Dispersal limitation and the assembly of soil Actinobacteria communities in a long‐term chronosequence
Authors: Eisenlord Sarah D. , Zak Donald R. , Upchurch Rima A.
Published: February 2012

Abstract It is uncertain whether the same ecological forces that structure plant and animal communities also shape microbial communities, especially those residing in soil. We sought to uncover the relative importance of present‐day environmental characteristics, climatic variation, and historical contingencies in shaping soil actinobacterial communities in a long‐term chronosequence. Actinobacteria communities were characterized in surface soil samples from four replicate forest stands with nearly identical edaphic and ecological properties, which range from 9500 to 14,000 years following glacial retreat in Michigan. Terminal restriction fragment length polymorphism (TRFLP) profiles and clone libraries of the actinobacterial 16S rRNA gene were constructed in each site for phenetic and phylogenetic analysis to determine whether dispersal limitation occurred following glacial retreat, or if community composition was determined by environmental heterogeneity. At every level of examination, actinobacterial community composition most closely correlated with distance, a surrogate for time, than with biogeochemical, plant community, or climatic characteristics. Despite correlation with leaf litter C:N and annual temperature, the significant and consistent relationship of biological communities with time since glacial retreat provides evidence that dispersal limitation is an ecological force structuring actinobacterial communities in soil over long periods of time.
Amphiphilic EuDOTA‐Tetraamide Complexes Form Micelles with Enhanced CEST Sensitivity
Authors: Evbuomwan Osasere M. , Kiefer Garry , Sherry A. Dean
Published: February 2012

The synthesis and characterization of four new DOTA‐tetraamide ligands having variable alkyl chain lengths (C1, C12, C14, and C16) and their respective europium(III) complexes are reported. The three EuL complexes having long alkyl chains spontaneously form micelles of variable size. The critical micelle concentration differed for each complex (lower for the C16 complex than the C12 complex) while micelle size increased with increasing alkyl chain length. Chemical exchange saturation transfer (CEST) experiments showed that all four EuIII complexes displayed slow‐to‐intermediate water exchange kinetics. As expected, the CEST signals in these complexes decreased with increasing temperatures due to faster water exchange but, interestingly, the CEST signals for the C14 and C16 complexes approached a maximum near 25 °C consistent with exchange limited CEST at or near room temperature. The water residence lifetimes obtained by fitting the CEST spectra to the Bloch equations increased in parallel with an increase in alkyl carbon chain‐length. By comparisons with the monomethylamide complex, which served as control, the data illustrate that micelle formation serves to slow the rate of water exchange in these systems. The complex having the largest CEST effect per unit EuIII concentration (the C16 analog) had a detection limit of 5.3 μM. This represents an approximate 250‐fold increase in sensitivity relative to the monomethylamide control (detection limit ≈ 1.3 mM). These features highlight the potential of using micelle‐based systems such as these as paramagnetic chemical exchange saturation transfer (PARACEST) agents for molecular imaging by MRI.
Coupling of native IEF and extended X‐ray absorption fine structure to characterize zinc‐binding sites from pI isoforms of SOD1 and A4V pathogenic mutant
Authors: Chevreux Sylviane , Llorens Isabelle , Solari Pier Lorenzo , Roudeau Stéphane , Devès Guillaume , Carmona Asuncion , Testemale Denis , Hazemann Jean‐Louis , Ortega Richard
Published: February 2012

Extended X‐ray absorption fine structure (EXAFS) has already provided high‐resolution structures of metal‐binding sites in a wide variety of metalloproteins. Usually, EXAFS is performed on purified metalloproteins either in solution or crystallized form but purification steps are prone to modify the metallation state of the protein. We developed a protocol to couple EXAFS analysis to metalloprotein separation using native gel electrophoresis. This coupling opens a large field of applications as metalloproteins can be characterized in their native state avoiding purification steps. Using native isoelectric focusing, the method enables the EXAFS analysis of metalloprotein pI isoforms. We applied this methodology to SOD1, wild‐type, and Ala4Val mutant (A4V), a mutation found in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) because decreased Zn affinity to SOD1 mutants is suggested to be involved in the pathogenesis of this neurodegenerative disease. We observed similar coordination structures for Zn in wild‐type and mutant proteins, in all measured pI isoforms, demonstrating the feasibility of EXAFS on electrophoresis gels and suggesting that the Zn‐binding site is not structurally modified in A4V SOD1 mutant.
Bacterial diversity and functionalities in food fermentations
Authors: Ravyts Frédéric , Vuyst Luc De , Leroy Frédéric
Published: February 2012

Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) play a central role in several food fermentations, producing lactic acid besides other metabolic actions. Popular fermented foods that rely on the use of LAB include fermented meats, sourdoughs, and fermented dairy products. During fermentation, LAB are frequently accompanied by other microorganisms, such as coagulase‐negative staphylococci (CNS), yeasts, and filamentous fungi. Whereas fermentation was originally a spontaneous and empiric process, most industrial processes make now use of starter cultures to speed up the fermentation process and standardise the end products and to reduce the risks on misfermentation. A drawback of using commercial starter cultures is their suboptimal selection, which is often solely based on mere technological features. Currently, functional starter cultures are being developed to further optimise the process and to yield additional nutritional, safety, and quality benefits. Specific metabolic properties are being sought for, with a focus on novel, interesting molecules that may, for instance, inhibit undesirable microorganisms, display nutraceutical properties, or contribute to flavour and texture attributes.
Second primary lung cancer after head and neck squamous cell cancer: Population‐based study of risk factors
Authors: Milano Michael T. , Peterson Carl R. , Zhang Hong , Singh Deepinder P. , Chen Yuhchyau
Published: February 2012

Background

Patients with head and neck squamous cell cancer (HNSCC) are at risk of developing second primary lung cancer (SPLC).

Methods

Among 61,883 patients with HNSCC from the Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results (SEER) database, 4522 developed SPLC (any histology) ≥2 months after HNSCC. We correlated risk with demographic and tumor‐related parameters.

Results

The risk of SPLC after HNSCC was 5.8%, 11.4%, and 16.4% at 5, 10, and 15 years, respectively. From Cox regression, significantly adverse (p < .0001) risk factors for SPLC included: regional versus localized HNSCC stage (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.16), hypopharyngeal or supraglottic laryngeal site (HR = 1.57), increased age (HR = 1.26/decade), black race (HR = 1.27), and male sex (HR = 1.26). Glottic (HR = 0.75) and tonsillar or oral cavity sites (HR = 0.80) were associated with significantly (p < .0001) lower risks of SPLC.

Conclusion

From population‐based actuarial analyses, HNSCCs with more aggressive clinicopathologic features were more apt to develop SPLC, suggestive of similar environmental and/or host factors for these cancers. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2012
Stat3-mediated activation of microRNA-23a suppresses gluconeogenesis in hepatocellular carcinoma by down-regulating Glucose-6-phosphatase and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma, coactivator 1 alpha
Authors: Wang Bo , Hsu Shu-Hao , Frankel Wendy , Ghoshal Kalpana , Jacob Samson T.
Published: February 2012

Considerable effort has been made in elucidating the mechanism and functional significance of high levels of aerobic glycolysis in cancer cells, commonly referred to as the Warburg effect. Here we investigated whether the gluconeogenic pathway is significantly modulated in hepatocarcinogenesis, resulting in altered levels of glucose homeostasis. To test this possibility, we used a mouse model (mice fed a choline-deficient diet) that develops nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), preneoplastic nodules, and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), along with human primary HCCs and HCC cells. This study demonstrated marked reduction in the expressions of G6pc, Pepck, and Fbp1 encoding the key gluconeogenic enzymes glucose-6-phosphatase, phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase, fructose-1,6-phosphatase, respectively, and the transcription factor Pgc-1α in HCCs developed in the mouse model that correlated with reduction in serum glucose in tumor-bearing mice. The messenger RNA (mRNA) levels of these genes were also reduced by ≈80% in the majority of primary human HCCs compared with matching peritumoral livers. The expression of microRNA (miR)-23a, a candidate miR targeting PGC-1α and G6PC, was up-regulated in the mouse liver tumors as well as in primary human HCC. We confirmed PGC-1α and G6PC as direct targets of miR-23a and their expressions negatively correlated with miR-23a expression in human HCCs. G6PC expression also correlated with tumor grade in human primary HCCs. Finally, this study showed that the activation of interleukin (IL)-6-Stat3 signaling caused the up-regulation of miR-23a expression in HCC. Conclusion: Based on these data, we conclude that gluconeogenesis is severely compromised in HCC by IL6-Stat3-mediated activation of miR-23a, which directly targets PGC-1α and G6PC, leading to decreased glucose production. (HEPATOLOGY 2012;56:186–197)
Net groundwater inflow in an enclosed lake: from synoptic variations to climatic projections
Authors: Kirillin G. , Phillip W. , Engelhardt C. , Nützmann G.
Published: February 2012

Using lake Stechlin in northeastern Germany as an example of a small groundwater‐feed lake without surface inflows and outflows, we estimated the temporal scales and the variability ranges of the net groundwater contribution to the lake water budget. High‐resolution water level measurements by a bottom‐mounted pressure logger provided the background for the estimation of the total lake water budget. This method has demonstrated reliability for estimation of lake level variations during periods ranging from subdiurnal to perennial. The typical amplitudes of the synoptic‐to‐perennial variability characterizing the groundwater climate of lake Stechlin are estimated by comparing the two subsequent years 2006 and 2007; one of these years shows an extremely high, and the other an extremely low, annual precipitation–evaporation balance. The net groundwater flow, estimated as the difference between the total water budget and the precipitation–evaporation balance at the surface, revealed synoptic effects of lake water exfiltration into the groundwater aquifer following strong precipitation events. Perennial variations between wet and dry years superimposed seasonal oscillations. The probable origin of the latter is seasonality in the groundwater level on the watershed, although the exact amplitudes are subject to further quantification on account of seasonality in the evaporation estimation error. The results emphasize the non‐stationary behaviour of groundwater flow on timescales shorter than climatic ones. The analysis yielded a net quantitative relationship between groundwater flow and water balance at the lake surface: The water level changes in the lake due to evaporation and precipitation are damped to 60% because of the lake–groundwater exchange by means of intermittent infiltration and exfiltration events. Assuming the remaining 40% of the surface water budget may potentially result in perennial water level variability, we estimated an effect of the precipitation decrease on the lake water budget as predicted by the regional climate scenarios for the next century. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Comparability of cancer identification among Death Registry, Cancer Registry and Hospital Discharge Registry
Authors: Ji Jianguang , Sundquist Kristina , Sundquist Jan , Hemminki Kari
Published: February 2012

Registry‐based cancer incidence and mortality data are widely used for etiologic research, cancer control and health care monitoring and planning. The complete coverage of all cases is the key criteria of data quality but it is difficult to assess because the alternative sources of data may be flawed. The aim of our study was to examine, at a nationwide level, the completeness of the Swedish Cancer Registry (CR) regarding persons who died of cancer, based on the Cause of Death Registry (DR), and using the Hospital Discharge Registry (HDR) as an additional source of data. Individuals who died of cancer from years 1999 through 2008 recorded in DR were linked to CR and HDR. A total of 190,692 individuals were identified from DR with cancer as the underlying cause of death; the mean identification rate of concordant cancer in CR was 79.8%, depending on tumor site and age at death. Breast, bladder and prostate cancers showed the highest rate of identification, whereas bone, liver and pancreatic cancers showed the lowest rate of identification. CR had no records on 10.6% of cancer cases recorded in DR. Similarly, the identification rate in HDR was 84.5% for concordant cancer and with 9.6% of cases missing. Neither source reported cancers for 3.4% of cancer cases recorded in DR. In conclusion, some 10% of cancer deaths had no cancer records in CR or in HDR, and 3.4% were missing in both sources. The identification rate depended on tumor site, age at death and, to some extent, death outside hospital.
How should individuals with a false‐positive fecal occult blood test for colorectal cancer be managed? A decision analysis
Authors: Haug Ulrike , Knudsen Amy B. , Kuntz Karen M.
Published: February 2012

Several industrialized nations recommend fecal occult blood testing (FOBT) to screen for colorectal cancer (CRC), but corresponding screening guidelines do not specify how individuals with a prior false‐positive FOBT result (fpFOBT) should be managed in terms of subsequent CRC screening. Accordingly, we conducted a decision analysis to compare different strategies for managing such individuals. We used a previously developed CRC microsimulation model, SimCRC, to calculate life‐years and the lifetime number of colonoscopies (as a measure of required resources) for a cohort of 50‐year‐olds to whom FOBT‐based CRC screening is offered annually from 50 to 75 years. We compared three management strategies for individuals with a prior fpFOBT: (i) resume screening in 10 years with 10‐yearly colonoscopy (SwitchCol_long); (ii) resume screening in 1 year with annual FOBT (ContinueFOBT_Short) and (iii) resume screening in 10 years (i.e., the recommended interval following a negative colonscopy) with annual FOBT (ContinueFOBT_long). We performed sensitivity analyses on various parameters and assumptions. When using different management strategies for individuals with a prior fpFOBT, the variation in the number of life‐years gained relative to no screening was <2%, whereas the variation in the lifetime number of colonoscopies was 23% (percentages are calculated as the maximum difference across strategies divided by the lowest number across strategies). The ContinueFOBT_long strategy showed the lowest lifetime number of colonoscopies per life‐year gained even when key assumptions were varied. In conclusion, the ContinueFOBT_long strategy was advantageous regarding both clinical benefit and required resources. Specifying an appropriate management strategy for individuals with a prior fpFOBT may substantially reduce required resources within a FOBT‐based CRC screening program without limiting its effectiveness.
The association between two polymorphisms in the TS gene and risk of cancer: A systematic review and pooled analysis
Authors: Zhou Jue‐Yu , Shi Rong , Yu Hai‐Lang , Zeng Ye , Zheng Wen‐Ling , Ma Wen‐Li
Published: February 2012

Thymidylate synthase (TS) is an important enzyme involved in folate metabolism and catalyzes methylation of deoxyuridine monophosphate to deoxythymidine monophosphate, which is essential for DNA replication. Thymidylate synthase enhancer region (TSER) and TS1494del6, two functionally important and ethnically diverse polymorphisms mapping to its gene region, are the most extensively studied. Considering the potential influence of altering TS activity, it is plausible that TS polymorphisms might play a role in the development of cancer. Although the effects of TS polymorphisms on susceptibility to human cancer have been investigated in many studies, the results remain conflicting rather than conclusive. To resolve these conflicts, we performed a quantitative synthesis of the evidence on the association between these two polymorphisms and cancer risk, including 63 studies (19,707 cases and 27,398 controls) for TSER polymorphism and 39 studies (13,489 cases and 16,297 controls) for TS1494del6 polymorphism. Our meta‐analysis suggested that these two polymorphisms are not associated with cancer risk when all studies were pooled together. In the stratified analyses, we found that individuals with 2R/2R genotype had a significantly higher cancer risks among Asians (2R/2R vs. 3R/3R: odds ratio [OR] = 1.24, 95% confidence interval (95% CI) = 1.05–1.45; recessive model: OR = 1.23, 95% CI = 1.05–1.44). Further analyses revealed that 2R/2R genotype was significantly associated with an increased risk of gastroesophageal cancer among Asians, whereas it might provide protecting effects against colorectal cancer risk in a dominant genetic model for Caucasians. Additionally, TS1494del6 polymorphism may contribute to genetic susceptibility of breast cancer among Asians.
The prevalence of children affected by parental cancer and their use of specialized psychiatric services: The 1987 Finnish Birth Cohort study
Authors: Niemelä Mika , Paananen Reija , Hakko Helinä , Merikukka Marko , Gissler Mika , Räsänen Sami
Published: February 2012

The studies reporting population‐based estimates of the proportion of children with a parent suffering from cancer are very few. These children have been shown to suffer from psychological symptoms, but it is not known whether their use of psychiatric services is increased. Our study examined the prevalence of children affected by parental cancer at national level and whether these children use specialized psychiatric services more than their peers. The study is a retrospective population‐based registry study. All 60,069 children born in Finland in 1987 were followed up with various health and social registers from 1987 to 2008. The associations of parental cancer treatments with children's psychiatric service use were analyzed with logistic regressions. During the 21‐year follow‐up 3,909 (6.6%) of the children had a parent suffering from cancer. The children of the cancer patients used more specialized psychiatric care than their peers and the service use depended on parent's gender, as well as cohort members' gender and the age at occurrence. The combination of parental cancer and psychiatric disorder, whether the ill parent or spouse, increased the children's psychiatric service use even more. Children affected by parental cancer comprise a substantial part of the population in society using increased level of psychiatric services. Parental cancer is clearly an illness which has to be taken into account in planning child‐ and parenting‐focused prevention and promotion actions in adult health care. “Parent's cancer is like a tsunami which rolls over the whole family. If it struck a thousand families at the same time the whole healthcare system would be mobilized. But when it strikes one family at a time you are left alone with your children” (quote from a father during a family intervention). Weaver et al.1 have reported that 14% of all cancer survivors in the USA have minor dependent children, representing a population of about 1.58 million survivors and 2.85 million children. A significant part of working age population is thus struggling with concerns related to serious illness, parenting and the wellbeing of children.
Aberrant expression of nuclear vimentin and related epithelial–mesenchymal transition markers in nasopharyngeal carcinoma
Authors: Luo Weiren , Fang Weiyi , Li Siyi , Yao Kaitai
Published: February 2012

Expression of vimentin and the epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) markers E‐cadherin, β‐catenin is essential for the progression of various human cancers. Our study aimed to investigate the aberrant localization E‐cadherin, β‐catenin and vimentin, and their prognostic significance in 122 nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) patients by immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence. Our results showed that both membranous and cytoplasmic localization of E‐cadherin staining were associated with lymph node metastasis (p = 0.000 and 0.005, respectively) and clinical stage (p = 0.000 and 0.007, respectively). High cytoplasmic β‐catenin correlated significantly with larger tumor size (p = 0.020), lymph node metastasis (p = 0.000) and advanced clinical stage (p = 0.036). However, no significant difference was observed between membranous β‐catenin and clinicopathologic features (p ≥ 0.05). High nuclear vimentin expression correlated significantly with positive lymph node metastasis (p = 0.000) and advanced clinical stage (p = 0.000). Multivariate analysis showed that nuclear vimentin and cytoplasmic E‐cadherin were independent prognostic factors (p = 0.016 and 0.001, respectively), as well as M classification (p = 0.001). More importantly, patients with high coexpression of nuclear vimentin and cytoplasmic E‐cadherin had shorter survival time (p = 0.000). Furthermore, high coexpression of these two proteins was closely associated with lymph node metastasis (p = 0.000) and advanced clinical stage (p = 0.000). Our studies provide convincing evidence that EMT may play an important role in the biological progression of NPC, and nuclear vimentin and cytoplasmic E‐cadherin might have independent prognostic value in NPC patients and serve as novel targets for prognostic therapeutics.
Remarkable inhibition of mTOR signaling by the combination of rapamycin and 1,4‐phenylenebis(methylene)selenocyanate in human prostate cancer cells
Authors: Facompre Nicole D. , Sinha Indu , El‐Bayoumy Karam , Pinto John T. , Sinha Raghu
Published: February 2012

Preclinical studies and clinical analyses have implicated the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway in the progression of prostate cancer, suggesting mTOR as a potential target for new therapies. mTOR, a serine/threonine kinase, belongs to two distinct signaling complexes: mTORC1 and mTORC2. We previously showed that the synthetic organoselenium compound, p‐XSC, effectively inhibits viability and critical signaling molecules (e.g., androgen receptor, Akt) in androgen responsive (AR) and androgen independent (AI) human prostate cancer cells. On the basis of its inhibition of Akt, we hypothesized that p‐XSC modulates mTORC2, an upstream regulator of the kinase. We further hypothesized that combining p‐XSC with rapamycin, an mTORC1 inhibitor, would be an effective combinatory strategy for the inhibition of prostate cancer. The effects of p‐XSC and rapamycin, alone or in combination, on viability and mTOR signaling were examined in AR LNCaP prostate cancer cells and AI C4‐2 and DU145 cells. Phosphorylation of downstream targets of mTORC1 and mTORC2 was analyzed by immunoblotting. The interaction of mTORC1‐ and mTORC2‐specific proteins with mTOR was probed through immunoprecipitation and immunoblotting. p‐XSC inhibited phosphorylation of mTORC2 downstream targets, Akt and PCKα, and decreased the levels of rictor, an mTORC2‐specific protein, coimmunoprecipitated with mTOR in C4‐2 cells. The combination of p‐XSC and rapamycin more effectively inhibited viability and mTOR signaling in C4‐2, LNCaP and DU145 cells than either agent individually.
Modeling and optimization of membrane preparation conditions of the alginate‐based microcapsules with response surface methodology
Authors: Ma Ying , Zhang Ying , Zhao Shan , Wang Yu , Wang Siran , Zhou Yan , Li Na , Xie Hongguo , Yu Weiting , Liu Yang , Wang Wei , Ma Xiaojun
Published: February 2012

Microencapsulation has been a promising approach for drug delivery, cell implantation, cell‐based gene therapy and large‐scale cell culture. To make use of microcapsules more effectively, it is important to accurately construct the microcapsule membranes with desired properties including a certain thickness, strength, and so forth. To date single factor experiments have been widely used, however, they are time‐consuming to obtain the desired membrane preparation conditions. Response surface methodology (RSM) is a mathematical and statistical technique for building empirical models that gained importance for optimizing reacting conditions. In this study, three signifficant effect factors that affect alginate‐based microcapsule membrane properties, including membrane thickness, swelling degree, and mechanical stability, were determined with Plackett–Burman method, and then three empirical models were built to optimize the preparation conditions of the microcapsule membranes according to the responses of these three signifficant effect factors respectively with RSM. These models can be used to predict the characteristics of microcapsules under different membrane preparation conditions, which provide a guide for optimizing the microencapsulation technology. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A:, 2012.
Electrodeposition of hydroxyapatite coating on Mg‐4.0Zn‐1.0Ca‐0.6Zr alloy and in vitro evaluation of degradation, hemolysis, and cytotoxicity
Authors: Guan Ren‐Guo , Johnson Ian , Cui Tong , Zhao Tong , Zhao Zhan‐Yong , Li Xue , Liu Huinan
Published: February 2012

A novel biodegradable Mg‐4.0Zn‐1.0Ca‐0.6Zr (wt %) alloy was successfully produced using a series of metallurgical processes; including melting, casting, rolling, and heat treatment. The hardness and ultimate tensile strength of the alloy sheets increased to 71.2HV and 320 MPa after rolling and then aging for 12 h at 175°C. These mechanical properties were sufficient for load‐bearing orthopedic implants. A hydroxyapatite (HA) coating was deposited on the Mg‐4.0Zn‐1.0Ca‐0.6Zr (wt %) alloy using a novel coating process combining alkali heat pretreatment, electrodeposition, and alkali heat posttreatment. The microstructure, composition, and phases of the Mg‐4.0Zn‐1.0Ca‐0.6Zr (wt %) alloy and HA coating were characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDS), and X‐ray diffraction (XRD). The degradation, hemolysis, and cytocompatibility of the HA‐coated and uncoated Mg‐4.0Zn‐1.0Ca‐0.6Zr (wt %) alloy were studied in vitro. The corrosion potential (Ecorr) of Mg‐4.0Zn‐1.0Ca‐0.6Zr alloy (−1.72 V) was higher than Mg (−1.95 V), Mg‐0.6Ca alloy (−1.91 V) and Mg‐1.0Ca alloy (−1.97 V), indicating the Mg‐Zn‐Ca‐Zr alloy would be more corrosion resistant. The initial corrosion potential of the HA‐coated Mg alloy sample (−1.51 V) was higher than the uncoated sample (−1.72 V). The hemolysis rates of the HA‐coated and uncoated Mg‐4.0Zn‐1.0Ca‐0.6Zr (wt %) alloy samples were both <5%, which met the requirements for implant materials. The HA‐coated and uncoated Mg‐4.0Zn‐1.0Ca‐0.6Zr (wt %) alloy samples demonstrated the same cytotoxicity score as the negative control. The HA‐coated samples showed a slightly greater relative growth rate (RGR%) of fibroblasts than the uncoated samples. Both the HA‐coated and uncoated Mg‐4.0Zn‐1.0Ca‐0.6Zr (wt %) alloy provided evidence of acceptable cytocompatibility for medical applications. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A:, 2012.
Effect of different surface nanoroughness of titanium dioxide films on the growth of human osteoblast‐like MG63 cells
Authors: Vandrovcova Marta , Hanus Jan , Drabik Martin , Kylian Ondrej , Biederman Hynek , Lisa Vera , Bacakova Lucie
Published: February 2012

Cell behavior depends strongly on the physical and chemical properties of the material surface, for example, its chemistry and topography. The authors have therefore assessed the influence of materials of different chemical composition (i.e., glass substrates with and without TiO2 films in anatase form) and different surface roughness (Ra = 0, 40, 100, or 170 nm) on the adhesion, proliferation, and osteogenic differentiation of human osteoblast‐like MG63 cells. On day 1 after seeding, the largest cell spreading area was found on flat TiO2 films (Ra = 0 nm). On TiO2 films with Ra = 170 nm, the cell spreading area was larger and the number of initially adhering cells was higher than the values on the corresponding uncoated glass. On day 3 after seeding, the cell number was higher on the TiO2 films (Ra = 0 and 40 nm) than on the corresponding glass substrates and the standard polystyrene dishes. On day 7, all TiO2 films contained higher cell numbers than the corresponding glass substrates, and the cells on the TiO2 films with Ra = 40 and 100 nm also contained a higher concentration of β‐actin. These results indicate that TiO2 coating had a positive influence on the adhesion and subsequent proliferation of MG63 cells. In addition, on all investigated materials, the cell population density achieved on day 7 decreased with increasing surface roughness. The concentration of osteocalcin, measured per mg of protein, was significantly lower in the cells on rougher TiO2 films (Ra = 100 and 170 nm) than in the cells on the polystyrene dishes. Thus, it can be concluded that the adhesion, growth, and phenotypic maturation of MG63 cells were controlled by the interplay between the material chemistry and surface topography, and were usually better on smoother and TiO2‐coated surfaces than on rougher and uncoated glass substrates. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A:, 2012.
Size‐dependent cellular toxicity of silver nanoparticles
Authors: Kim Tae‐Hyun , Kim Meeju , Park Hyung‐Seok , Shin Ueon Sang , Gong Myoung‐Seon , Kim Hae‐Won
Published: February 2012

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have found a variety of uses including biomedical materials; however, studies of the cytotoxicity of AgNPs by size effects are only in the beginning stage. In this study, we examined the size‐dependent cellular toxicity of AgNPs using three different characteristic sizes (∼ 10, 50, and 100 nm) against several cell lines including MC3T3‐E1 and PC12. The cytotoxic effect determined based on the cell viability, intracellular reactive oxygen species generation, lactate dehydrogenase release, ultrastructural changes in cell morphology, and upregulation of stress‐related genes (ho‐1 and MMP‐3) was fairly size‐ and dose‐dependent. In particular, AgNPs stimulated apoptosis in the MC3T3‐E1 cells, but induced necrotic cell death in the PC12 cells. Furthermore, the smallest sized AgNPs (10 nm size) had a greater ability to induce apoptosis in the MC3T3‐E1 cells than the other sized AgNPs (50 and 100 nm). These data suggest that the AgNPs‐induced cytotoxic effects against tissue cells are particle size‐dependent, and thus, the particle size needs careful consideration in the design of the nanoparticles for biomedical uses. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A:, 2012.