bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ChemInform Abstract: Stereoselective Conjugate Addition of Halide Anions to Acetylenic Carbonyl Compounds Promoted by Lanthanoid Reagents.
Authors: FUJIWARA T. , TANAKA A. , UKAJI Y.
Published: May 2016

The alkynyl ketones (Ia) and (Ib) and the propiolic amide (Ic) are treated with sodium iodide, chlorotrimethylsilane, and cerium trichloride to form the β‐iodo α,β‐unsaturated carbonyl compounds (II) or (III).
ChemInform Abstract: Epoxidation of α,β‐Unsaturated Ketones Using Dialkylzinc‐Oxygen Reagents.
Authors: YAMAMOTO K. , YAMAMOTO N.
Published: May 2016

Cyclohexenone (I) reacts with diethylzinc (II) and oxygen to give the epoxide (III), together with minor amounts of 3‐ethylcyclohexanone (IV).
ChemInform Abstract: Diastereoselective Synthesis of γ‐Lactones by the Aldol‐Type Reaction of Ethyl 2,2‐Dialkoxycyclopropanecarboxylates with Aldehydes.
Authors: SAIGO K. , SHIMADA S. , HASHIMOTO Y. , HASEGAWA M.
Published: May 2016

The 2,2‐dialkoxycyclopropanecarboxylates (III) are cleaved and coupled with the aldehydes (IV) in the presence of titanium tetrabromide, yielding the hydroxy diesters (V) which are subjected to base(or acid)‐induced cyclization to form the γ‐lactones (VI) and (VII) with predominance of the cis‐substituted isomers (VI).
ChemInform Abstract: Synthesis of 5a,10b‐Dihydro‐5a,10b‐butanodibenzo(2,3;4,5)furo(2,3‐b)furan.
Authors: KOZLIKOVSKII YA. B. , CHERNYAEV B. V. , MYSHKO YU. V.
Published: May 2016

In the presence of Al(OPh)3 the reaction between phenol (I) and cyclohexane‐1,2‐dione (II) affords the title compound (III) in fair yield.
ChemInform Abstract: Synthesis of 4‐(N,N‐Dimethylaminoethyl)‐1,2,3,4‐tetrahydrocarbazole. Molecular Structure and Reactivity of the 1,2‐Dihydrocarbazol‐4(3H)‐one and Derivatives.
Authors: RODRIGUEZ J.‐G. , TEMPRANO F. , ESTEBAN‐CALDERON C. , MARTINEZ‐RIPOLL M.
Published: May 2016

Reaction of phenylhydrazine (II) with cyclohexanedione (I) yields the hydrazone (III) (yield given in g) in two crystalline forms the Fischer reaction of which leads to the title compound (IV) (space group Pna21 with Z=4).
ChemInform Abstract: Aromatic vs Diene Reactivity of 2(1H)‐Pyridinone and Its Derivatives.
Authors: YADLA R. , REHMAN H. , RAO J. M. , MAHESH V. K.
Published: May 2016

The pyridinone (I) does not undergo Diels‐Alder reaction with alkynes, e.g. (II).
ChemInform Abstract: Intramolecular Diels‐Alder Reactions of Pyrimidines: Synthesis of Tricyclic Anellated Pyridines.
Authors: STOLLE W. A. W. , MARCELIS A. T. M. , KOETSIER A. , VAN DER PLAS H. C.
Published: May 2016

Compounds of type (I), available starting from 2‐chloropyrimidine, are converted to the acetylenes (III).
ChemInform Abstract: Intramolecular Diels‐Alder Reactions of Quaternary Pyrazinium Salts and Protonated Pyrazinium Cations. Synthesis of Anellated Pyridinium Salts and Anellated Pyridines.
Authors: GEURTSEN B. , DE BIE D. A. , VAN DER PLAS H. C.
Published: May 2016

Treatment of the pyrazine (I) according to A) gives directly the bicyclic analogue of (III); attempts to quaternize (Id) fail.
ChemInform Abstract: Chemistry of Thienopyridines. Part 36. Further Studies on Nitration in the Thieno(2,3‐b)‐ and Thieno(3,2‐b)pyridine Systems.
Authors: KLEMM L. H. , JOHNSTONE S. , SUR S. K. , MUCHIRI D. R.
Published: May 2016

Nitration of thieno(3,2‐b)pyridine oxide (I) is accompanied by N‐deoxygenation to yield the 3,7‐dinitro derivative (II), whereas nitration of 7‐nitrothieno(3,2‐b)pyridine oxide (III) with a large excess of nitrating agent introduces a second nitro group to yield the 3,7‐dinitro derivative (IV).
ChemInform Abstract: Synthesis and Properties of Some 1,4‐Dioxan‐2‐ylheterocumulenes.
Authors: KRASAVTSEV I. I. , KOROTKII YU. V. , LOZINSKII M. O.
Published: May 2016

The reaction between 2‐chloro‐1,4‐dioxane (I) and potassium thiocyanate (II) proceeds smoothly to yield 2‐isothiocyanato‐1,4‐dioxane (III).
ChemInform Abstract: Imidazo(1,2‐b)pyridazines. Part 6. Syntheses and Central Nervous System Activities of Some 6‐(Alkoxy‐ and methylthio‐phenoxy and methoxybenzylthio)‐3‐methoxy‐2‐phenyl(substituted phenyl and pyridinyl)imidazo(1,2‐b)pyridazines.
Authors: BARLIN G. B. , DAVIES L. P. , IRELAND S. J. , NGU M. M. L.
Published: May 2016

Forty‐four title compounds are synthesized, e.g. by the methods exemplified in the scheme for (VI) or (IX), and tested for their ability to inhibit GABA‐stimulated 3H‐diazepam binding to rat brain plasma membranes.
ChemInform Abstract: Synthesis and Anticonvulsant Activity of a Novel Series of N‐Substituted 4,6‐Diaryl‐3‐pyridazinones.
Authors: COUDERT P. , RUBAT C. , COUQUELET J. , FIALIP J. , BASTIDE P. , PRIVAT A. M.
Published: May 2016

A large variety of title compounds such as (I) are prepared by known or common methods.
ChemInform Abstract: Synthesis of Novel Dihydrothiazolo(3,2‐a)pyrimidinone Derivatives.
Authors: SELBY T. P. , SMITH B. K.
Published: May 2016

Condensation of the 2‐mercaptopyrimidine (I) with ethyl bromocrotonate (II) yields a mixture of the thiazolo(3,2‐a)pyrimidine (III) and the tricyclic product (IV), whereas treatment of (I) with 4‐bromocrotononitrile (V) gives the thiazolo(3,2‐a)pyrimidine (VI) as the sole product.
ChemInform Abstract: Synthesis and Biological Properties of 3‐Methyl‐10‐propargyl‐5,8‐dideazafolic Acid.
Authors: JONES T. R. , BETTERIDGE R. F. , NEWELL D. R. , JACKMAN A. L.
Published: May 2016

The title compound (VIa) is efficiently accessible by the method shown in the scheme; further attempted approaches fail in their last stages.
ChemInform Abstract: Versatile Chemistry of Quinoxaline Leading to Quinoid and Indigoid Chromophors. Part 3. Synthesis with 1‐Methylquinoxalinium Toluene‐4‐sulfonate.
Authors: SCHELZ D.
Published: May 2016

Dimerization of the 1‐methylquinoxalinium salt (I) in the presence of 4‐methylthiophenol leads to the formation of a compound which probably has the structure (IV).
ChemInform Abstract: Synthesis and Antimicrobial Activity of New Substituted 10‐Methyl‐1,2‐dihydro‐1‐oxo‐1,2,4‐triazino(4,5‐a)indoles.
Authors: RAJUR S. B. , MERWADE A. Y. , BASANAGOUDAR L. D. , KULKARNI P. V.
Published: May 2016

The indolecarboxylates (I) react with hydrazine hydrate (II), yielding the carbohydrazides (III) which undergo cyclocondensation reaction with the ortho esters (IV), forming the triazinoindoles (V).
ChemInform Abstract: 2‐Benzazepines. Part 10. New d‐Fused 2‐Benzazepines.
Authors: WALSER A. , TODARO L.
Published: May 2016

The preparations of further pyrano(3,2‐d)(2)benzazepines and related compounds are described.
ChemInform Abstract: Conversion of Lactones into Substituted Cyclic Ethers.
Authors: TSUSHIMA K. , ARAKI K. , MURAI A.
Published: May 2016

The lactones (Ia) ‐ (Ic) and (Ie) are consecutively treated with lithium hexamethyldisilazide and N‐phenyltriflimide (II), forming the enol triflates (III).
ChemInform Abstract: An Electron‐Rich (4)Radialene.
Authors: FRONDA A. , MAAS G.
Published: May 2016

Catalytic decomposition of the non‐stable silane (III) prepared as shown results in the formation of the tricyclic compound (IV) (space group C2/c, Z=4) whose four‐membered ring is folded at an angle of 35.0°.
ChemInform Abstract: Synthesis and Characterization of Copper(II) and Nickel(II) Complexes of 4‐Alkyldithioate‐5‐hydroxy‐3‐methyl‐1‐phenylpyrazoles.
Authors: MAURELIA R. , LEON G. , OLIVA A.
Published: May 2016

Seven complexes of type (I) are prepared by mixing a water solution of the metal acetate with an alcoholic solution of the appropriate ligand at 50 °C (yields: 62‐93%).
ChemInform Abstract: Controlled Synthesis of Some Mixed Diimine Ruthenium(II) Complexes.
Authors: JIBRIL I. , AKASHEH T. S. , SHRAIM A. M.
Published: May 2016

Mixed complexes analogous to (III) with 2,2'‐bipyrazine ligands instead of bipy are prepared similarly in yields of 26 and 24%.
ChemInform Abstract: (C N)‐Chelate, N,N′‐Bridged Dimeric Palladium Complexes Derived from Hydrazones Ph‐C(R)=N‐N′HPh. X‐Ray Structure of Cyclic (Pd(o‐C6H4‐C(R)=N‐N′Ph)L)2 (R: Me, L: P(OMe)3).
Authors: ESPINET P. , GARCIA G. , HERRERO F. J. , JEANNIN Y. , PHILOCHE‐LEVISALLES M.
Published: May 2016

The monomeric chelate Pd(II) complexes (III) are prepared as shown for the derivatives (IIIa)‐(IIId).
ChemInform Abstract: Separation of Peptide Diastereomers by Reversed‐Phase HPLC and Its Applications. Part 3. Sar‐L‐Phe‐OMe, an Improved Derivatization Reagent for Chiral Separation of N‐(Benzyloxycarbonyl)amino Acids by Reversed‐Phase High‐Performance Liquid Chromatography.
Authors: YAMADA T. , SHIMAMURA M. , MIYAZAWA T. , KUWATA S.
Published: May 2016

In contrast to the reagent described in the preceding abstract, its sarcosine analogue permits the successful chiral separation of various aromatic amino acids.
ChemInform Abstract: Stereoselective Synthesis of γ‐Aminocarboxylates.
Authors: REETZ M. , ROEHRIG D. +
Published: May 2016

A method is reported which allows the transformation of the α‐amino acid derivatives (I) into γ‐amino acid esters containing a new stereocenter.
ChemInform Abstract: Sintering of a Ceramic at Very Low Temperatures.
Authors: JAIN H. , PARKASH O. , XU M. Y.
Published: May 2016

It is demonstrated that sintering of high purity alumina can be initiated at temp. lower that 150 °C by using neutron irradiation (> 1 MeV, total dose of 4.3·1018 n/cm2).
ChemInform Abstract: Alkyl, Alkenyl, Aryl, Acyl and Sulfonyl Isocyanates Containing Phosphorus
Authors: KOZHUSHKO B. N. , LOMAKINA A. V. , SHOKOL V. A.
Published: May 2016

Review: (143 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Shilajit. Part 4. Chemistry of Two Bioactive Benzopyrone Metabolites.
Authors: GHOSAL S. , LAL J. , SINGH S. K. , KUMAR Y. , SOTI F.
Published: May 2016

The isolation and structure of the reactive benzopyrone (I), a crucial intermediate to the bioactive dibenzopyrones (II) from shilajit, a panacea in oriental medicine, as well as the synthesis of (IIc) are described.
Cellular and molecular mechanisms regulating neuronal growth by brain‐derived neurotrophic factor
Authors: Gonzalez Andres , Moya‐Alvarado Guillermo , Gonzalez‐Billaut Christian , Bronfman Francisca C.
Published: May 2016

Brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and its receptors TrkB and p75 regulate dendritic and axonal growth during development and maintenance of the mature nervous system; however, the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying this process are not fully understood. In recent years, several advances have shed new light on the processes behind the regulation of BDNF‐mediated structural plasticity including control of neuronal transcription, local translation of proteins, and regulation of cytoskeleton and membrane dynamics. In this review, we summarize recent advances in the field of BDNF signaling in neurons to induce neuronal growth. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Molecular Basis for Differential Recognition of G‐Quadruplex versus Double‐Helix DNA by Bis‐Phenanthroline Metal Complexes
Authors: Rigo Riccardo , Bianco Sara , Musetti Caterina , Palumbo Manlio , Sissi Claudia
Published: May 2016

1,10‐Phenanthroline (Phen) derivatives are attractive ligands to provide metal complexes that are selective for different DNA secondary structures. Herein, we analyze the binding processes of two bis‐Phen analogues and their NiII complexes toward double‐stranded DNA and telomeric G‐quadruplex DNA by calorimetric and spectroscopic techniques. The free ligands can adapt to both DNA arrangements. Conversely, metal ion coordination produces an increase in ligand affinity for the tetrahelical structure, whereas it dramatically decreases binding to double‐stranded DNA as a result of distinct binding modes on the two templates. In fact, NiII complexes effectively stack on the G‐quadruplex terminals, with an entropic loss counterbalanced by favorable enthalpy changes, whereas they cause a conformational reshaping of the double‐helix form with a substantial decrease in the binding free energy. Consistently, no NiII–DNA ionic pair has ever been identified. These results provide a rationale for the selective recognition of distinct DNA arrangements in view of targeted pharmacological applications.
Second‐opinion interpretations of neuroimaging studies by oncologic neuroradiologists can help reduce errors in cancer care
Authors: Hatzoglou Vaios , Omuro Antonio M. , Haque Sofia , Khakoo Yasmin , Ganly Ian , Oh Jung Hun , Shukla‐Dave Amita , Fatovic Robin , Gaal Joshua , Holodny Andrei I.
Published: May 2016

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to investigate the utility and clinical impact of second‐opinion interpretations of outside neuroimaging studies by oncologic neuroradiologists at a National Cancer Institute–designated cancer center.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective analysis of initial outside and second‐opinion radiology reports from 300 computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging studies and identified cases with discrepancies between the two reports. An adult neuro‐oncologist, pediatric neuro‐oncologist, and head and neck surgeon reviewed each pair of discrepant reports based on their area of expertise, patient age, and the type of study performed. The clinicians were blinded to the origin of each report and recorded whether the differences in the reports would have led to a change in patient management and/or disease staging. Histopathologic analysis, clinical assessment, and/or minimum 3‐month imaging follow‐up served as the reference standards to establish which of the 2 reports was correct.

RESULTS

Among the 283 cases that met our study criteria, there were 55 neuroimaging studies with disagreements (19%) between the initial outside report and second‐opinion interpretation. Patient management and/or disease stage would have been altered in 42 of 283 cases (15%) based on report differences as determined by the 2 neuro‐oncologists and the surgeon participating in the study. Sufficient follow‐up was available in 35 of 42 cases (83%). The second‐opinion interpretation was correct 100% of the time (35/35).

CONCLUSION

Second‐opinion interpretations of neuroimaging studies by subspecialized oncologic neuroradiologists provide added value by reducing error and optimizing the care of cancer patients. Cancer 2016. © 2016 American Cancer Society. Cancer 2016;122:2708–2714. © 2016 American Cancer Society.
Parental preparedness for late effects and long‐term quality of life in survivors of childhood cancer
Authors: Greenzang Katie A. , Cronin Angel M. , Mack Jennifer W.
Published: May 2016

BACKGROUND

Parents of children with cancer desire information regarding the late effects of treatment. In the current study, the authors assessed parents' preparedness for late effects at least 5 years after their child's diagnosis.

METHODS

A cross‐sectional survey was conducted of all eligible parents of children with cancer between April 2004 and September 2005 at Dana‐Farber/Boston Children's Cancer and Blood Disorders Center within 1 year of diagnosis, and a follow‐up questionnaire was administered at least 5 years later.

RESULTS

Approximately 66% of parents of children who were still living, and who were able to be contacted, completed the follow‐up questionnaire (91 of 138 parents). Approximately 77% of respondents (70 of 91 respondents) were parents of disease‐free survivors and 23% (21 of 91 respondents) were parents of children with recurrent disease. The majority of parents believed they were well prepared for their child's oncology treatment (87%), but fewer felt prepared for future limitations experienced by their children (70%; P = .003 using the McNemar test) or for life after cancer (62%; P<.001). On bivariable analysis among parents of disease‐free survivors, parents were more likely to believe themselves to be prepared for future limitations when they also reported that communication with the oncologist helped to address worries regarding the future (odds ratio, 4.50; P = .01). At the time of diagnosis, both parents and physicians underestimated a child's risk of future limitations; 45% of parents and 39% of clinicians predicted future limitations in physical abilities, intelligence, or quality of life, but at the time of the follow‐up questionnaire >5 years later, 72% of children experienced limitations in at least 1 domain.

CONCLUSIONS

Parents believe themselves to be less prepared for survivorship than for treatment. High‐quality communication may help parents to feel more prepared for life after cancer therapy. Cancer 2016;122:2587–94. © 2016 American Cancer Society.
Predicting advanced neoplasia at colonoscopy in a diverse population with the National Cancer Institute colorectal cancer risk‐assessment tool
Authors: Ladabaum Uri , Patel Ashley , Mannalithara Ajitha , Sundaram Vandana , Mitani Aya , Desai Manisha
Published: May 2016

BACKGROUND

Tailoring screening to colorectal cancer (CRC) risk could improve screening effectiveness. Most CRCs arise from advanced neoplasia (AN) that dwells for years. To date, no available colorectal neoplasia risk score has been validated externally in a diverse population. The authors explored whether the National Cancer Institute (NCI) CRC risk‐assessment tool, which was developed to predict future CRC risk, could predict current AN prevalence in a diverse population, thereby allowing its use in risk stratification for screening.

METHODS

This was a prospective examination of the relation between predicted 10‐year CRC risk and the prevalence of AN, defined as advanced or multiple (≥3 adenomatous, ≥5 serrated) adenomatous or sessile serrated polyps, in individuals undergoing screening colonoscopy.

RESULTS

Among 509 screenees (50% women; median age, 58 years; 61% white, 5% black, 10% Hispanic, and 24% Asian), 58 (11%) had AN. The prevalence of AN increased progressively from 6% in the lowest risk‐score quintile to 17% in the highest risk‐score quintile (P = .002). Risk‐score distributions in individuals with versus without AN differed significantly (median, 1.38 [0.90‐1.87] vs 1.02 [0.62‐1.57], respectively; P = .003), with substantial overlap. The discriminatory accuracy of the tool was modest, with areas under the curve of 0.61 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.54‐0.69) overall, 0.59 (95% CI, 0.49‐0.70) for women, and 0.63 (95% CI, 0.53‐0.73) for men. The results did not change substantively when the analysis was restricted to adenomatous lesions or to screening procedures without any additional incidental indication.

CONCLUSIONS

The NCI CRC risk‐assessment tool displays modest discriminatory accuracy in predicting AN at screening colonoscopy in a diverse population. This tool may aid shared decision‐making in clinical practice. Cancer 2016. © 2016 American Cancer Society. Cancer 2016;122:2663–2670. © 2016 American Cancer Society.
Analytical validity of a microRNA‐based assay for diagnosing indeterminate thyroid FNA smears from routinely prepared cytology slides
Authors: Benjamin Hila , Schnitzer‐Perlman Temima , Shtabsky Alexander , VandenBussche Christopher J. , Ali Syed Z. , Kolar Zdenek , Pagni Fabio ,   Rosetta Genomics Group, Bar Dganit , Meiri Eti
Published: May 2016

BACKGROUND

The majority of thyroid nodules are diagnosed using fine‐needle aspiration (FNA) biopsies. The authors recently described the clinical validation of a molecular microRNA‐based assay, RosettaGX Reveal, which can diagnose thyroid nodules as benign or suspicious using a single stained FNA smear. This paper describes the analytical validation of the assay.

METHODS

More than 800 FNA slides were tested, including slides stained with Romanowsky‐type and Papanicolaou stains. The assay was examined for the following features: intranodule concordance, effect of stain type, minimal acceptable RNA amounts, performance on low numbers of thyroid cells, effect of time since sampling, and analytical sensitivity, specificity, and reproducibility.

RESULTS

The assay can be run on FNA slides for which as little as 1% of the cells are thyroid epithelial cells or from which only 5 ng of RNA have been extracted. Samples composed entirely of blood failed quality control and were not classified. Stain type did not affect performance. All slides were stored at room temperature. However, the length of time between FNA sampling and processing did not affect assay performance. There was a high level of concordance between laboratories (96%), and the concordance for slides created from the same FNA pass was 93%.

CONCLUSIONS

The microRNA‐based assay was robust to various physical processing conditions and to differing sample characteristics. Given the assay's performance, robustness, and use of routinely prepared FNA slides, it has the potential to provide valuable aid for physicians in the diagnosis of thyroid nodules. Cancer Cytopathol 2016;124:711–21. © 2016 Rosetta Genomics. Cancer Cytopathology published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of American Cancer Society.
Organization of the connections between claustrum and cortex in the mouse
Authors: Wang Quanxin , Ng Lydia , Harris Julie A. , Feng David , Li Yang , Royall Josh J. , Oh Seung Wook , Bernard Amy , Sunkin Susan M. , Koch Christof , Zeng Hongkui
Published: May 2016

The connections between the claustrum and the cortex in mouse are systematically investigated with adeno‐associated virus (AAV), an anterograde viral tracer. We first define the boundary and the three‐dimensional structure of the claustrum based on a variety of molecular and anatomical data. From AAV injections into 42 neocortical and allocortical areas, we conclude that most cortical areas send bilateral projections to the claustrum, the majority being denser on the ipsilateral side. This includes prelimbic, infralimbic, medial, ventrolateral and lateral orbital, ventral retrosplenial, dorsal and posterior agranular insular, visceral, temporal association, dorsal and ventral auditory, ectorhinal, perirhinal, lateral entorhinal, and anteromedial, posteromedial, lateroposterior, laterointermediate, and postrhinal visual areas. In contrast, the cingulate and the secondary motor areas send denser projections to the contralateral claustrum than to the ipsilateral one. The gustatory, primary auditory, primary visual, rostrolateral visual, and medial entorhinal cortices send projections only to the ipsilateral claustrum. Primary motor, primary somatosensory and subicular areas barely send projections to either ipsi‐ or contralateral claustrum. Corticoclaustral projections are organized in a rough topographic manner, with variable projection strengths. We find that the claustrum, in turn, sends widespread projections preferentially to ipsilateral cortical areas with different projection strengths and laminar distribution patterns and to certain contralateral cortical areas. Our quantitative results show that the claustrum has strong reciprocal and bilateral connections with prefrontal and cingulate areas as well as strong reciprocal connections with the ipsilateral temporal and retrohippocampal areas, suggesting that it may play a crucial role in a variety of cognitive processes. J. Comp. Neurol. 525:1317–1346, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A Detailed Analysis of the Morphology of Fibrils of Selectively Mutated Amyloid β (1–40)
Authors: Adler Juliane , Baumann Monika , Voigt Bruno , Scheidt Holger A. , Bhowmik Debanjan , Häupl Tilmann , Abel Bernd , Madhu Perunthiruthy K. , Balbach Jochen , Maiti Sudipta , Huster Daniel
Published: May 2016

A small library of rationally designed amyloid β [Aβ(1–40)] peptide variants is generated, and the morphology of their fibrils is studied. In these molecules, the structurally important hydrophobic contact between phenylalanine 19 (F19) and leucine 34 (L34) is systematically mutated to introduce defined physical forces to act as specific internal constraints on amyloid formation. This Aβ(1–40) peptide library is used to study the fibril morphology of these variants by employing a comprehensive set of biophysical techniques including solution and solid‐state NMR spectroscopy, AFM, fluorescence correlation spectroscopy, and XRD. Overall, the findings demonstrate that the introduction of significant local physical perturbations of a crucial early folding contact of Aβ(1–40) only results in minor alterations of the fibrillar morphology. The thermodynamically stable structure of mature Aβ fibrils proves to be relatively robust against the introduction of significantly altered molecular interaction patterns due to point mutations. This underlines that amyloid fibril formation is a highly generic process in protein misfolding that results in the formation of the thermodynamically most stable cross‐β structure.
Habitat augmentation drives secondary invasion: an experimental approach to determine the mechanism of invasion success
Authors: O'Loughlin Luke S. , Green Peter T.
Published: May 2016

The entry of secondary invaders into, or their expansion within, native communities is contingent on the changes wrought by other (primary) invaders. When primary invaders have altered more than one property of the recipient community, standard descriptive and modeling approaches only provide a best guess of the mechanism permitting the secondary invasion. In rainforest on Christmas Island, we conducted a manipulative field experiment to determine the mechanism of invasion success for a community of land snails dominated by non‐native species. The invasion of rainforest by the yellow crazy ant (Anoplolepis gracilipes) has facilitated these land snails, either by creating enemy‐free space and/or increased habitat and resources (in the form of leaf litter) through the removal of the native omnivorous‐detritivorous red land crab (Gecarcoidea natalis). We manipulated predator densities (high and low) and leaf litter (high and low) in replicated blocks of four treatment combinations at two sites. Over the course of one wet season (five months), we found that plots with high leaf litter biomass contained significantly more snails than those with low biomass, regardless of whether those plots had high or low predation pressure, at both the site where land crabs have always been abundant, and at the site where they have been absent for many years prior to the experiment. Each site was dominated by small snail species (<2 mm length), and through handling size and predation experiments we demonstrated that red crabs tend not to handle and eat snails of that size. These results suggest that secondary invasion by this community of non‐native land snails is facilitated most strongly by habitat and resource augmentation, an indirect consequence of red land crab removal, and that the creation of enemy‐free space is not important. By using a full‐factorial experimental approach, we have confidently determined—rather than inferred—the mechanism by which primary invaders indirectly facilitate a community of secondary invaders.
Carnation‐like CuO Hierarchical Nanostructures Assembled by Porous Nanosheets for Nonenzymatic Glucose Sensing
Authors: Zhang Wenli , Li Rong , Xing Lu , Wang Xing , Gou Xinglong
Published: May 2016

Carnation‐like CuO hierarchical nanostructures assembled by ultrathin porous nanosheets were successfully fabricated via a facile solvothermal route followed with heat treatment. As‐prepared CuO nanostructures exhibited excellent catalytic activity toward glucose oxidation in the absence of any enzymes. Under the optimized conditions, the CuO‐based enzymeless glucose sensor showed high sensitivity of 3.15 mA mM−1 cm−2, low limit of detection (98 nM, S/N=3), good reproducibility, excellent selectivity and long‐time stability. The superb nonenzymatic glucose sensing performance of the CuO hierarchical nanostructures was attributed to the highly catalytically active sites at the edges and basal planes of the CuO nanosheets, facile transportation of analytes through the abundant mesopores and macropores, robust and stable hierarchical structure. Moreover, the CuO‐based enzymeless glucose sensor showed high accuracy and reliability in comparison with clinical glucometer for quantitative determination of glucose in human blood serum samples.
Neurobehavioral radiation mitigation to standard brain cancer therapy regimens by Mn(III) n‐butoxyethylpyridylporphyrin‐based redox modifier
Authors: Weitzel Douglas H. , Tovmasyan Artak , Ashcraft Kathleen A. , Boico Alina , Birer Samuel R. , Roy Choudhury Kingshuk , Herndon James , Rodriguiz Ramona M. , Wetsel William C. , Peters Katherine B. , Spasojevic Ivan , Batinic‐Haberle Ines , Dewhirst Mark W.
Published: May 2016

Combinations of radiotherapy (RT) and chemotherapy have shown efficacy toward brain tumors. However, therapy‐induced oxidative stress can damage normal brain tissue, resulting in both progressive neurocognitive loss and diminished quality of life. We have recently shown that MnTnBuOE‐2‐PyP5+ (Mn(III)meso‐tetrakis(N‐n‐butoxyethylpyridinium ‐2‐yl)porphyrin) rescued RT‐induced white matter damage in cranially‐irradiated mice. Radiotherapy is not used in isolation for treatment of brain tumors; temozolomide is the standard‐of‐care for adult glioblastoma, whereas cisplatin is often used for treatment of pediatric brain tumors. Therefore, we evaluated the brain radiation mitigation ability of MnTnBuOE‐2‐PyP5+ after either temozolomide or cisplatin was used singly or in combination with 10 Gy RT. MnTnBuOE‐2‐PyP5+ accumulated in brains at low nanomolar levels. Histological and neurobehavioral testing showed a drastic decrease (1) of axon density in the corpus callosum and (2) rotorod and running wheel performance in the RT only treatment group, respectively. MnTnBuOE‐2‐PyP5+ completely rescued this phenotype in irradiated animals. In the temozolomide groups, temozolomide/ RT treatment resulted in further decreased rotorod responses over RT alone. Again, MnTnBuOE‐2‐PyP5+ treatment rescued the negative effects of both temozolomide ± RT on rotorod performance. While the cisplatin‐treated groups did not give similar results as the temozolomide groups, inclusion of MnTnBuOE‐2‐PyP5+ did not negatively affect rotorod performance. Additionally, MnTnBuOE‐2‐PyP5+ sensitized glioblastomas to either RT ± temozolomide in flank tumor models. Mice treated with both MnTnBuOE‐2‐PyP5+ and radio‐/chemo‐therapy herein demonstrated brain radiation mitigation. MnTnBuOE‐2‐PyP5+ may well serve as a normal tissue radio‐/chemo‐mitigator adjuvant therapy to standard brain cancer treatment regimens. Environ. Mol. Mutagen. 57:372–381, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Combined Calcium Looping and Chemical Looping Combustion for Post‐Combustion Carbon Dioxide Capture: Process Simulation and Sensitivity Analysis
Authors: Duhoux Benoit , Mehrani Poupak , Lu Dennis Y. , Symonds Robert T. , Anthony Edward J. , Macchi Arturo
Published: May 2016

In this work, a combined calcium looping and chemical looping combustion (CaL–CLC) technology is simulated at thermodynamic equilibrium conditions and the results in terms of efficiency, power production, and solids circulation rates are compared with the case of using CaL alone. In addition, a new solids looping configuration in the CaL–CLC process is proposed with the purpose of mitigating the loss of calcium oxide conversion after high cycle numbers. Simulations show an improved process efficiency of the CaL–CLC method compared with CaL alone (34.2 vs. 31.2 % higher heat value) and an increased power output (136 vs. 110 MWe additional power) due to the higher energy requirement to preheat the reactants. A sensitivity analysis of the process operating parameters highlights the particular importance of the temperature difference between reactors, which has a strong impact on the required mass of solids circulating in the loops. Finally, partial carbon dioxide capture scenarios are considered and indicate that lower capture levels are suitable to match regulation targets.
Anode‐Supported Solid Oxide Fuel Cell Achieves 70 000 Hours of Continuous Operation
Authors: Blum Ludger , de Haart L. G. J. , Malzbender Jürgen , Margaritis Nikolaos , Menzler Norbert H.
Published: May 2016

Global climate challenges necessitate the development of technologies that reduce civilization's dependence on non‐renewable resources. Very promising in this respect are solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs). However, their high operating temperatures have imposed a variety of practical limitations, and therefore a major focus in recent years has been on new materials and optimized microstructures. Here, we report the results of a long‐term test using a short stack with anode‐supported cells based on standard materials, and we attained a continuous operation time of 70 000 h (eight years)—the longest operation time ever reached for this technology. This result offers the best prospect for the realization of stable and robust SOFC technology.
Epigenetic regulation of SMARCB1 By miR‐206, ‐381 and ‐671‐5p is evident in a variety of SMARCB1 immunonegative soft tissue sarcomas, while miR‐765 appears specific for epithelioid sarcoma. A miRNA study of 223 soft tissue sarcomas
Authors: Sápi Zoltán , Papp Gergő , Szendrői Miklós , Pápai Zsuzsanna , Plótár Vanda , Krausz Thomas , Fletcher Christopher D.M.
Published: May 2016

Complete/partial loss of SMARCB1 nuclear‐immunopositivity is characteristic of a certain subset of soft tissue sarcomas (STSs). Our previous work showed that oncomiRs‐206,‐381, and 671‐5p could silence the SMARCB1 mRNA and protein expression and that they display significant overexpression in epithelioid sarcomas (ESs). MiR‐765 was overexpressed too, but functionally was inactive in the silencing. In the current work, using quantitative PCR, we conducted a miRNA study of 51 ESs, 20 rhabdoid tumors (RTs), 20 synovial sarcomas (SSs), 15 malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors (MPNSTs), 11 myoepithelial carcinomas (MECs), and 10 extraskeletal myxoid chondrosarcomas (EMCSs) with complete/partial loss of SMARCB1 nuclear immunostain, in contrast to controls (SMARCB1‐immunopositive) of 96 STSs, 13 melanomas and 10 sarcomatoid carcinomas. The SMARCB1 genetic status of ESs was determined by MLPA and FISH. A subset of ESs (5/51) showed biallelic deletion of SMARCB1 with no overexpression of any miRNA, suggesting these tumors could be the counterpart of pediatric RT, at least genetically. Another subset (5/51) was genetically either intact or monoallelic deleted with at least threefold overexpression of one of miR‐206,‐381,‐671‐5p, suggesting epigenetic regulation only. 39/51 ESs had a biallelic deletion (>20% by FISH and/or by MLPA) but with overexpressed miR‐206,‐381, and 671‐5p, suggesting intratumoral heterogeneity, i.e., both genetic and epigenetic regulation. At least threefold overexpression of one of miR‐206,‐381, and 671‐5p was detected in all MPNSTs, EMCSs, SSs and 7 MCs. Except for ESs, four SSs and one MPNST, there was no event above threefold overexpression of miR‐765 among all 195 tested tumors. Our results suggest a general role of miR‐206,‐381, and 671‐5p in SMARCB1 gene silencing of ES, MC, EMCS, MPNST and SS. In the future, miR‐765 could possibly be a diagnostic tool for ES because of its 97% specificity and 80% sensitivity. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
White matter deficits mediate effects of prenatal alcohol exposure on cognitive development in childhood
Authors: Fan Jia , Jacobson Sandra W. , Taylor Paul A. , Molteno Christopher D. , Dodge Neil C. , Stanton Mark E. , Jacobson Joseph L. , Meintjes Ernesta M.
Published: May 2016

Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders comprise the spectrum of cognitive, behavioral, and neurological impairments caused by prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE). Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) was performed on 54 children (age 10.1 ± 1.0 years) from the Cape Town Longitudinal Cohort, for whom detailed drinking histories obtained during pregnancy are available: 26 with full fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) or partial FAS (PFAS), 15 nonsyndromal heavily exposed (HE), and 13 controls. Using voxelwise analyses, children with FAS/PFAS showed significantly lower fractional anisotropy (FA) in four white matter (WM) regions and higher mean diffusivity (MD) in seven; three regions of FA and MD differences (left inferior longitudinal fasciculus (ILF), splenium, and isthmus) overlapped, and the fourth FA cluster was located in the same WM bundle (right ILF) as an MD cluster. HE children showed lower FA and higher MD in a subset of these regions. Significant correlations were observed between three continuous alcohol measures and DTI values at cluster peaks, indicating that WM damage in several regions is dose dependent. Lower FA in the regions of interest was attributable primarily to increased radial diffusivity rather than decreased axonal diffusivity, suggesting poorer axon packing density and/or myelination. Multiple regression models indicated that this cortical WM impairment partially mediated adverse effects of PAE on information processing speed and eyeblink conditioning. Hum Brain Mapp 37:2943–2958, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Magnetoencephalographic signatures of insular epileptic spikes based on functional connectivity
Authors: Zerouali Younes , Pouliot Philippe , Robert Manon , Mohamed Ismail , Bouthillier Alain , Lesage Frédéric , Nguyen Dang K.
Published: May 2016

Failure to recognize insular cortex seizures has recently been identified as a cause of epilepsy surgeries targeting the temporal, parietal, or frontal lobe. Such failures are partly due to the fact that current noninvasive localization techniques fare poorly in recognizing insular epileptic foci. Our group recently demonstrated that magnetoencephalography (MEG) is sensitive to epileptiform spikes generated by the insula. In this study, we assessed the potential of distributed source imaging and functional connectivity analyses to distinguish insular networks underlying the generation of spikes. Nineteen patients with operculo‐insular epilepsy were investigated. Each patient underwent MEG as well as T1‐weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) as part of their standard presurgical evaluation. Cortical sources of MEG spikes were reconstructed with the maximum entropy on the mean algorithm, and their time courses served to analyze source functional connectivity. The results indicate that the anterior and posterior subregions of the insula have specific patterns of functional connectivity mainly involving frontal and parietal regions, respectively. In addition, while their connectivity patterns are qualitatively similar during rest and during spikes, couplings within these networks are much stronger during spikes. These results show that MEG can establish functional connectivity‐based signatures that could help in the diagnosis of different subtypes of insular cortex epilepsy. Hum Brain Mapp 37:3250–3261, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Intestinal‐type sinonasal adenocarcinomas: The road to molecular diagnosis and personalized treatment
Authors: Hoeben Ann , van de Winkel Linda , Hoebers Frank , Kross Kenneth , Driessen Chantal , Slootweg Pieter , Tjan–Heijnen Vivianne C. G. , van Herpen Carla
Published: May 2016

Background

Sinonasal intestinal‐type adenocarcinomas (ITACs) are epithelial tumors of the nasal cavity and the paranasal sinuses, often related to professional exposure to organic dust, mainly wood or leather. It is a rare cancer. If resectable, surgery is the treatment of choice. Postoperative radiotherapy is often indicated to increase local control. Systemic treatment (chemotherapy, targeted agents, or immunotherapy) of irresectable ITACs and/or metastasized disease is less standardized.

Methods

Articles on ITAC histopathology, molecular profile, and current treatment options of this specific tumor were identified and reviewed, using the electronic databases Pubmed, Medline, Cochrane, and Web of Science.

Results

This article reviews what is currently known on the histopathology, tumorigenesis, molecular characteristics, and standardized treatment options of ITAC.

Conclusion

More translational research is needed to identify druggable targets that may lead to a personalized treatment plan in order to improve long‐term outcome in patients with locally advanced and/or metastasized ITAC. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 38: First–1570, 2016
Metastases to nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses
Authors: López Fernando , Devaney Kenneth O. , Hanna Ehab Y. , Rinaldo Alessandra , Ferlito Alfio
Published: May 2016

The sinonasal cavities are rare locations for metastases. Metastases to these locations are usually solitary and produce similar symptoms to those of a primary sinonasal tumor. Nasal obstruction and epistaxis are the most frequent symptoms. The maxillary sinus is most frequently involved. The most common primary tumor sites to spread to this region originate in the kidney, breast, thyroid, and prostate, although any malignancy could potentially lead to a metastasis to the paranasal sinuses. The patient's prognosis is usually poor because of the fact that the sinonasal metastasis is usually associated with widespread disseminated disease. In the majority of patients, palliative therapy is the only possible treatment option. Nevertheless, whenever possible, surgical excision either alone or combined with radiotherapy may be useful for palliation of symptoms and, rarely, to achieve prolonged survival. This review considers the most interesting cases reported in the literature that presents metastases to the sinonasal cavities. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 38: 1847–1854, 2016
Evidence of perturbed germinal center dynamics, but preserved antibody diversity, in end‐stage renal disease
Authors: Assing Kristian , Nielsen Christian , Jakobsen Marianne , Scholze Alexandra , Nybo Mads , Soerensen Grete , Mortensen Sussie , Vejen Knud , Barington Torben , Bistrup Claus
Published: May 2016

Introduction

End‐stage renal disease (ESRD) is associated with increased infectious susceptibility and with reduced vaccine responses consistent with compromised humoral immunity. Whether the compromised humoral immunity is due to reduced antibody diversity (reduced somatic hypermutation [SHM]) or altered germinal center (GC) dynamics is not known. The GC‐derived chemokine CXCL13 as well as peripheral T follicular helper cells (pTFH) reflect GC dynamics, but have, similar to SHM, never been characterized in relation to ESRD.

Methods

Serum CXCL 13 was determined by ELISA. PTFH were flow‐cytometrically defined as CD4+ CD45RA− CCR7+ CXCR5+ lymphocytes. Apoptotic lymphocyte subsets were in addition annexin V+. SHM was determined, by next‐generation sequencing and bioinformatics, as nucleotide mutations within the IgG VH (comprising the important antigen‐binding domains of IgG, CDR1, and CDR2).

Results

Elevated CXCL13 levels characterized ESRD (n = 19; [median] 90 pg/ml, P < 0.01) (controls, n = 18; 62 pg/ml). ESRD pTFH frequencies (n = 19; 11.6% [of CD4+ memory T cells], P < 0.02*, *Bonferroni corrected) (controls, n = 22; 14.9%) and concentrations (n = 19; 0.03 × 109/L, P < 0.02*) (controls, n = 22; 0.07 × 109/L) were reduced. ESRD pTFH were more apoptotic (n = 9; 25.7%, P = 0.04*) (controls, n = 10; 15.9%). SHM did not discriminate between ESRD (n = 10; 7.4%, P = 0.21) and controls (n = 10; 8.4%).

Conclusions

Elevated CXCL13 levels, reduced pTFH levels, and increased pTFH apoptosis suggest that perturbed GC dynamics, and not reduced antibody diversity, underlie the diminished vaccine responses and the compromised humoral immunity in ESRD. However, largely preserved SHM provides a rationale for pursuing vaccination in relation to ESRD.
Circulating serum irisin levels in obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Shoukry Amira , Shalaby Sally M. , El‐Arabi Bdeer Shereen , Mahmoud Amira A. , Mousa Mayada M. , Khalifa Ashraf
Published: May 2016

Irisin is an exercise‐regulated myokine inducing browning of white adipose tissue and has gained interest as a potential new strategy to combat obesity and its associated disorders, such as type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). The aim of this study is to evaluate the circulating serum irisin levels in obesity and T2DM and also to elucidate possible relationships between serum irisin levels with anthropometric and metabolic parameters of obesity and T2DM. One hundred fifty newly diagnosed T2DM patients as well as 150 nondiabetic control subjects were enrolled in this study. Nondiabetic controls were then stratified according to their body mass index (BMI) into three subgroups; lean, overweight, and obese. Serum irisin levels were evaluated by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Serum irisin levels were significantly decreased in T2DM patients compared with nondiabetic controls. Obese nondiabetic controls had significantly higher serum irisin levels compared with lean nondiabetic controls. In both nondiabetic controls and T2DM patients, serum irisin was significantly positively correlated with BMI (r = 0.985, P < 0.001 and r = 0.218, P = 0.007, respectively), fat mass (r = 0.959, P < 0.001 and r = 0.202, P = 0.013, respectively), fat‐free mass (r = 0.606, P < 0.001 and r = 0.194, P = 0.017, respectively), fat‐free mass index (r = 0.820, P < 0.001 and r = 0.179, P = 0.028, respectively), waist‐to‐hip ratio (r = 0.880, P < 0.001 and r = 0.194, P = 0.017, respectively), fasting insulin (r = 0.989, P < 0.001 and r = 0.207, P = 0.011, respectively), and HOMA‐IR (r = 0.989, P < 0.001 and r = 0.185, P = 0.023, respectively), whereas; significantly negatively correlated with insulin sensitivity (r = −0.992, P < 0.001 and r = −0.187, P = 0.022, respectively). In this study, we demonstrated that circulating serum irisin levels were increased in obese nondiabetic subjects, while decreased in T2DM patients. Moreover, serum irisin levels were correlated with anthropometric and metabolic markers of obesity and T2DM. © 2016 IUBMB Life, 68(7):544–556, 2016
A New Method of Using Polyethylene Glycol (PEG) Precipitation of Macroprolactin to Detect Genuine Hyperprolactinemia
Authors: Chen Yongjian , Wang Huan , Yang Wei , Jin Weidong , Yu Wenge , Wang Wei , Zhang Kailin , Song Guangzhong
Published: May 2016

Background

The most commonly used method of polyethylene glycol (PEG) precipitation for macroprolactinemia (MP) screening has some significant drawbacks. The aim of this study was to establish a new method using PEG for precipitation of macroprolactin (macroPRL) to detect genuine hyperprolactinemia (genuine HP).

Methods

The optimal PEG concentration for precipitation and the effect of PEG on the precipitation of PRL were analyzed to establish and optimize our PEG precipitation method. The PRL recovery rate and genuine HP detection rate were compared between our method and MP screening method.

Results

About 25% PEG6000 was determined to be the optimal PEG concentration for precipitation. Along with an increase in protein concentration in the PRL calibration solution, the PRL recovery rate after precipitation decreased gradually. The PRL recovery rate increased when the precipitation was carried out with diluted PRL calibration solution; the recovery rate reached greater than 90% after a 5‐fold dilution of the calibration solution. The genuine HP detection rate and PRL recovery rate using our diluted serum PEG precipitation method were significantly higher than those obtained with the MP screening method. Our method successfully detected 31 cases of genuine HP, which was significantly higher than the detection rate obtained using the MP screening method (25 cases; P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Precipitation using 5‐fold diluted serum with 25% PEG6000 can effectively reduce the macroPRL concentration, increasing the PRL recovery rate and detection rate of genuine HP after precipitation, which is an effective and convenient method for the detection of genuine HP.