bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Organometallic Rhenium Complexes Divert Doxorubicin to the Mitochondria
Authors: Imstepf Sebastian , Pierroz Vanessa , Rubbiani Riccardo , Felber Michael , Fox Thomas , Gasser Gilles , Alberto Roger
Published: January 2016

Doxorubicin, a well‐established chemotherapeutic agent, is known to accumulate in the cell nucleus. By using ICP‐MS, we show that the conjugation of two small organometallic rhenium complexes to this structural motif results in a significant redirection of the conjugates from the nucleus to the mitochondria. Despite this relocation, the two bioconjugates display excellent toxicity toward HeLa cells. In addition, we carried out a preliminarily investigation of aspects of cytotoxicity and present evidence that the conjugates disrupt the mitochondrial membrane potential, are strong inhibitors of human Topoisomerase II, and induce apoptosis. Such derivatives may enhance the therapeutic index of the aggressive parent drug and overcome drug resistance by influencing nuclear and mitochondrial homeostasis.
Gold‐Catalyzed Highly Selective Photoredox C(sp2)−H Difluoroalkylation and Perfluoroalkylation of Hydrazones
Authors: Xie Jin , Zhang Tuo , Chen Fei , Mehrkens Nina , Rominger Frank , Rudolph Matthias , Hashmi A. Stephen K.
Published: January 2016

The first gold‐catalyzed photoredox C(sp2)−H difluoroalkylation and perfluoroalkylation of hydrazones with readily available RF−Br reagents is reported. The resulting gem‐difluoromethylated and perfluoroalkylated hydrazones are highly functionalized, versatile molecules. A mild reduction of the coupling products can efficiently produce gem‐difluoromethylated β‐amino phosphonic acids and β‐amino acid derivatives. In mechanistic studies, a difluoroalkyl radical intermediate was detected by an EPR spin‐trapping experiment, indicating that a gold‐catalyzed radical pathway is operating.
A Synthetic Glycopeptide Vaccine for the Induction of a Monoclonal Antibody that Differentiates between Normal and Tumor Mammary Cells and Enables the Diagnosis of Human Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Palitzsch Björn , Gaidzik Nikola , Stergiou Natascha , Stahn Sonja , Hartmann Sebastian , Gerlitzki Bastian , Teusch Nicole , Flemming Peer , Schmitt Edgar , Kunz Horst
Published: January 2016

In studies within the realm of cancer immunotherapy, the synthesis of exactly specified tumor‐associated glycopeptide antigens is shown to be a key strategy for obtaining a highly selective biological reagent, that is, a monoclonal antibody that completely differentiates between tumor and normal epithelial cells and specifically marks the tumor cells in pancreas tumors. Mucin MUC1, which is overexpressed in many prevalent cancers, was identified as a promising target for this strategy. Tumor‐associated MUC1 differs significantly from that expressed by normal cells, in particular by altered glycosylation. Structurally defined tumor‐associated MUC1 cannot be isolated from tumor cells. We synthesized MUC1–glycopeptide vaccines and analyzed their structure–activity relationships in immunizations; a monoclonal antibody that specifically distinguishes between human normal and tumor epithelial cells was thus generated.
Stereoselective Arene‐Forming Aldol Condensation: Synthesis of Configurationally Stable Oligo‐1,2‐naphthylenes
Authors: Lotter Dominik , Neuburger Markus , Rickhaus Michel , Häussinger Daniel , Sparr Christof
Published: January 2016

Structurally well‐defined oligomers are fundamental for the functionality of natural molecular systems and key for the design of synthetic counterparts. Herein, we describe a strategy for the efficient synthesis of individual stereoisomers of 1,2‐naphthylene oligomers by iterative building block additions and consecutive stereoselective arene‐forming aldol condensation reactions. The catalyst‐controlled atropoenantioselective and the substrate‐controlled atropodiastereoselective aldol condensation reaction provide structurally distinct ter‐ and quaternaphthalene stereoisomers, which represent configurationally stable analogues of otherwise stereodynamic, helically shaped ortho‐phenylenes.
Light‐Harvesting Systems Based on Organic Nanocrystals To Mimic Chlorosomes
Authors: Chen Peng‐Zhong , Weng Yu‐Xiang , Niu Li‐Ya , Chen Yu‐Zhe , Wu Li‐Zhu , Tung Chen‐Ho , Yang Qing‐Zheng
Published: January 2016

We report the first highly efficient artificial light‐harvesting systems based on nanocrystals of difluoroboron chromophores to mimic the chlorosomes, one of the most efficient light‐harvesting systems found in green photosynthetic bacteria. Uniform nanocrystals with controlled donor/acceptor ratios were prepared by simple coassembly of the donors and acceptors in water. The light‐harvesting system funneled the excitation energy collected by a thousand donor chromophores to a single acceptor. The well‐defined spatial organization of individual chromophores in the nanocrystals enabled an energy transfer efficiency of 95 %, even at a donor/acceptor ratio as high as 1000:1, and a significant fluorescence of the acceptor was observed up to donor/acceptor ratios of 200 000:1.
Pd Nanocubes@ZIF‐8: Integration of Plasmon‐Driven Photothermal Conversion with a Metal–Organic Framework for Efficient and Selective Catalysis
Authors: Yang Qihao , Xu Qiang , Yu Shu‐Hong , Jiang Hai‐Long
Published: January 2016

Composite nanomaterials usually possess synergetic properties resulting from the respective components and can be used for a wide range of applications. In this work, a Pd nanocubes@ZIF‐8 composite material has been rationally fabricated by encapsulation of the Pd nanocubes in ZIF‐8, a common metal–organic framework (MOF). This composite was used for the efficient and selective catalytic hydrogenation of olefins at room temperature under 1 atm H2 and light irradiation, and benefits from plasmonic photothermal effects of the Pd nanocube cores while the ZIF‐8 shell plays multiple roles; it accelerates the reaction by H2 enrichment, acts as a “molecular sieve” for olefins with specific sizes, and stabilizes the Pd cores. Remarkably, the catalytic efficiency of a reaction under 60 mW cm−2 full‐spectrum or 100 mW cm−2 visible‐light irradiation at room temperature turned out to be comparable to that of a process driven by heating at 50 °C. Furthermore, the catalyst remained stable and could be easily recycled. To the best of our knowledge, this work represents the first combination of the photothermal effects of metal nanocrystals with the favorable properties of MOFs for efficient and selective catalysis.
Ruthenium‐Catalyzed C−C Bond Cleavage of 2H‐Azirines: A Formal [3+2+2] Cycloaddition to Fused Azepine Skeletons
Authors: Li Tengfei , Xu Fen , Li Xincheng , Wang Chunxiang , Wan Boshun
Published: January 2016

2H‐azirines can serve as three‐atom synthons by C−C bond cleavage, however, it involves a high energy barrier under thermal conditions (>50.0 kcal mol−1). Reported is a ruthenium‐catalyzed [3+2+2] cycloaddition reaction of 2H‐azirines with diynes, thus leading to the formation of fused azepine skeletons. This approach features an unprecedented metal‐catalyzed C−C bond cleavage of 2H‐azirines at room temperature, and the challenging construction of aza‐seven‐membered rings from diynes. The results of this study provide a new reaction pattern for constructing nitrogen‐containing seven‐membered rings and may find applications in the synthesis of other complex heterocycles.
The Total Synthesis of Inostamycin A
Authors: Yu Guangri , Jung Byunghyuck , Lee Hee‐Seung , Kang Sung Ho
Published: January 2016

The first total synthesis of inostamycin A is described. With efficient and stereoselective synthetic routes to aldehyde 3 and ketone 4 developed through asymmetric aldol reactions, addition reactions and reduction, and with chiral building blocks, the two large fragments were coupled with remarkable anti stereoselectivity and efficiency by aldol condensation. The coupling reaction provided the complete carbon skeleton with all the requisite functional groups and stereogenic centers for inostamycin A. The two quaternary carbons at C20 and C16 of ketone 4 were elaborated in a highly stereocontrolled manner by addition reactions of the transmetallated 5 to ethyl ketone 6 and the transmetallated 7 to methyl ketone 8, respectively, in which the use of LaCl3 for transmetallation was critical for high coupling efficiency.
Synthesis of Strained γ‐Lactams by Palladium(0)‐Catalyzed C(sp3)−H Alkenylation and Application to Alkaloid Synthesis
Authors: Holstein Philipp M. , Dailler David , Vantourout Julien , Shaya Janah , Millet Anthony , Baudoin Olivier
Published: January 2016

A variety of strained α‐alkylidene‐γ‐lactams were synthesized by palladium(0)‐catalyzed intramolecular C(sp3)−H alkenylation from easily accessible acyclic and monocyclic bromoalkene precursors. These lactams are valuable intermediates for accessing various classes of mono‐ and bicylic alkaloids containing a pyrrolidine ring, as illustrated with the synthesis of an advanced model of the marine natural product plakoridine A and of the indolizidine alkaloid δ‐coniceine.
The Chiropteran Brain Database: Volumetric Survey of the Hypophysis in 165 Species
Authors: Bhatnagar Kunwar P. , Smith Timothy D. , Rai Shesh N. , Frahm Heiko D.
Published: January 2016

For nearly two decades, a database of brain structures from a large sample (272 species) of chiropterans has been widely accessible and used for socioecological analyses of mammals. However, this database remains incomplete since the hypophysis has not been measured. Since this glandular/neural structure has reproductive significance to chiropterans as for other mammals, this investigation was carried out using serial coronal sections of bat brains comprising the Heinz Stephan collection, Düsseldorf, Germany. Complete serially sectioned brains were examined in 313 individuals (165 species, 15 families). Using a well‐documented method, hypophyseal volumes were determined from every fourth or sixth section in each individual. The strongest correlation was between body weight and the hypophysis (R2 = 0.887) and its various components as well as between body weight and adenohypophysis (R2 = 0.830) and neurohypophysis (R2 = 0.925). Correlations were also strong for brain weight‐adenohypophysis (R2 = 0.817) and brain weight‐ neurohypophysis (R2 = 0.911). Results indicated that: (1) in regression analyses, hipposiderids stand apart as having relatively large adenohypophysis; (2) analysis of residuals generated using least‐squares regression of hypophyseal components suggests a trend among microchiropterans where females have a relatively larger adenohypophysis than males. However, this difference is only statistically significant in the largest samples: Phyllostomidae and Vespertilionidae. Pteropodids do not appear to follow this trend. Our findings suggest both phylogenetic and sexual differences in the adenohypophysis in particular, and indicate the need for investigation of larger samples by species, especially those best understood in reproductive and social biology. Anat Rec, 299:492–510, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Synthesis of Asymmetric Anthracene Derivatives and Their Application for Blue Organic Light‐emitting Diodes
Authors: Choi In‐Su , Jeong Myoung‐Hoon , Lee Seon Hee , Park Myung Hwan , Chung Yongseog
Published: January 2016

Aryl‐substituted asymmetric anthracene blue host materials, 10‐naphthalene‐2‐yl‐9‐phenyl‐2‐triphenylsilylanthracene (6) and 9‐(4‐(tert‐butyl)phenyl)‐10‐(2‐methyl‐5‐(naphthalen‐1‐yl)phenyl)anthracene (7) were synthesized and characterized. Asymmetric anthracene derivatives 6 and 7 possessed high thermal stabilities that are suitable as emitting layer materials for blue organic light‐emitting device. The electroluminescence emission maximum of BD‐142‐doped (7 wt %) two devices exhibited at 464 nm (for 6) and 472 nm (for 7), respectively. All devices showed good performances as blue host materials. The 7‐based device especially displayed higher device performances in terms of brightness (L
max = 37 090 cd/m2), luminous current density (7.26 cd/A), and external quantum efficiencies (5.80%) than those of 6‐based device.
Determination of cuticular and internal fatty acids of Chorthippus brunneus males and females using HPLC‐LLSD and GC–MS
Authors: Gołębiowski Marek , Cerkowniak Magdalena , Ostachowska Aleksandra , Boguś Mieczysława I. , Stepnowski Piotr
Published: January 2016

Insects are of growing significance in veterinary medicine and human healthcare; therefore, an understanding of their biology is very important. The cuticular and internal fatty acid compositions of Chorthippus brunneus males and females have been studied for the first time. The lipids of males and females were separated into classes of compounds using high‐performance liquid chromatography with a laser light scattering detector. The free fatty acid (FFA) fractions obtained by HPLC were silylated and then analyzed by GC–MS. The cuticular lipids of males contained 15 saturated, four unsaturated with even‐numbered and two unsaturated with odd‐numbered carbon chains, FFAs ranging from C8 to C25. The major free fatty acids in males were C16 (20.8%), C18:2 (8.5%), C18:1 (32.9%) and C18 (24.4%). The cuticular lipids of females contained 17 saturated, four monounsaturated and two diunsaturated free fatty acids ranging from C8 to C30. The major cuticular fatty acids in females were C16 (25.1%), C18:2 (6.2%), C18:1 (23.7%) and C18:0 (33.2%). The internal FFAs of males consisted of 20 compounds ranging from C8 to C26. Four of these compounds were detected as major compounds: C16 (14.1%), C18:2 (21.6%), C18:1 (38.0%) and C18 (22.5%). Among 18 internal free fatty acids of females, C16 (22.3%), C18:2 (10.9%), C18:1 (40.2%) and C18 (20.5%) were the most abundant compounds. The following cuticular fatty acids present in the lipids of females were absent in the lipids of males: C26, C27 and C30. On the other hand, only C24 was absent from the cuticular lipids of females. Only C10 and C24 internal fatty acids present in the lipids of males were absent in the lipids of females. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A case of organized arachnoid cyst with repeated hemorrhage
Authors: Kobayashi Atsushi , Nagashima Goro , Noda Masayuki , Kato Akihito , Morishima Hiroyuki , Koike Junki
Published: January 2016

Key Clinical Message

Hemorrhage sometimes occurs within arachnoid cysts, however, organized arachnoid cysts has not been reported. We speculate the previous invasive stress or some kind of infection may have triggered the formation of the organized membrane, which may have formed via a similar mechanism to that for organized chronic subdural hematomas.
Effects of Hexane in Supercritical Fluid Chromatography for the Separation of Enantiomers
Authors: Wu Haihong , Yu Stanley , Zeng Lu
Published: January 2016

Supercritical fluid chromatography (SFC), operated in conventional mode, is normally recognized as normal phase chromatography, and uses a solvent combination of supercritical CO2 and alcohols to separate compounds. Hexane, a commonly used solvent in normal phase liquid chromatography (NP‐LC), is rarely used in SFC and, in some cases, is added to the organic modifiers to increase liquid content in order to achieve better efficiency in preparative SFC for poorly retained compounds. Although hexane is believed to have similar solvent strength to that of supercritical CO2, its effects on the enantioseparation in SFC is largely unknown. To understand the chromatographic effects of an apolar solvent, such as hexane in SFC, we compared the chromatographic behaviors of 35 chiral compounds using a parallel SFC method under traditional SFC mode of only “pure” alcohol‐CO2 to that of hexane‐assisted SFC (HA‐SFC), which uses mixtures of alcohol and hexane (as cosolvents) and CO2. We observed that, in some cases, hexane behaves just like supercritical CO2, where replacement of a portion of CO2 with hexane does not significantly change retention times or resolution of the peaks. In many cases, however, addition of hexane in mobile phases does affect chromatographic behavior of one or both enantiomers. Such effects might provide opportunities for separation of some enantiomers. Chirality 28:192–198, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Heavy oil recovery using ASP flooding: A pore‐level experimental study in fractured five‐spot micromodels
Authors: Sedaghat Mohammad , Mohammadzadeh Omid , Kord Shahin , Chatzis Ioannis
Published: January 2016

Although alkaline‐surfactant‐polymer (ASP) flooding has proven efficient for heavy oil recovery, the displacement mechanisms and efficiency of this process should be discussed further in fractured porous media. In this study, several ASP flooding tests were conducted in fractured glass‐etched micromodels with a typical waterflood geometrical configuration, i.e. five‐spot injection‐production pattern. The ASP flooding tests were conducted at constant injection flow rates but different fracture geometrical characteristics. The ASP solutions consisted of five polymers, two surfactants, and three alkaline types. It was found that using synthetic polymers, especially hydrolyzed polyacrylamide with high molecular mass, as well as cationic surfactant increases the ultimate recovery. The location of the injection well with respect to the fracture system plays a significant role in the ASP flooding performance, i.e. an increase in the angle associated with the longitudinal extension of fractures with respect to the main flow direction resulted in enhanced oil recovery and also postponed the wetting phase breakthrough time. Mechanistic study of this displacement process revealed that dispersive and diffusive behaviour of the ASP front enhanced the fluid transport from fracture to matrix and increased the microscopic displacement efficiency. Emulsification and coalescence mechanisms were responsible for ASP frontal advancement. Residual oil in the invaded region, which was observed in the form of discontinuous oil ganglia dispersed in the invaded pore bodies or in the form of pendular bridges formed around some of the solid particles, was mobilized in the form of oil wads through the droplets of the displacing phase.
Gender, Racial, and Health Insurance Differences in the Trend of Implantable Cardioverter‐Defibrillator (ICD) Utilization: A United States Experience Over the Last Decade
Authors: Patel Nileshkumar J. , Edla Sushruth , Deshmukh Abhishek , Nalluri Nikhil , Patel Nilay , Agnihotri Kanishk , Patel Achint , Savani Chirag , Patel Nish , Bhimani Ronak , Thakkar Badal , Arora Shilpkumar , Asti Deepak , Badheka Apurva O. , Parikh Valay , Mitrani Raul D. , Noseworthy Peter , Paydak Hakan , Viles‐Gonzalez Juan , Friedman Paul A. , Kowalski Marcin
Published: January 2016

Prior studies have highlighted disparities in cardiac lifesaving procedure utilization, particularly among women and in minorities. Although there has been a significant increase in implantable cardioverter‐defibrillator (ICD) insertion, socioeconomic disparities still exist in the trend of ICD utilization. With the use of the Nationwide Inpatient Sample from 2003 through 2011, we identified subjects with ICD insertion (procedure code 37.94) and cardiac resynchronization defibrillator (procedure code 00.50, 00.51) as codified by the International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification. Overall, 1 020 076 ICDs were implanted in the United States from 2003 to 2011. We observed an initial increase in ICD utilization by 51%, from 95 062 in 2003 to 143 262 in 2006, followed by a more recent decline. The majority of ICDs were implanted in men age ≥65 years. Implantation of ICDs was 2.5× more common in men than in women (402 per million vs 163 per million). Approximately 95% of the ICDs were implanted in insured patients, and 5% were used in the uninsured population. There has been a significant increase in ICD implantation in blacks, from 162 per million in 2003 to 291 per million in 2011. We found a significant difference in the volume of ICD implants between the insured and the uninsured patient populations. Racial disparities have narrowed significantly in comparison with those noted in earlier studies and are now more reflective of the population demographics at large. On the other hand, significant gender disparities continue to exist.
Techniques for studying protein trafficking and molecular motors in neurons
Authors: Feng Shanxi , Arnold Don B.
Published: January 2016

This review focused on techniques that facilitated the visualization of protein trafficking. In the mid‐1990s the cloning of GFP allowed fluorescently tagged proteins to be expressed in cells and then visualized in real time. This advance allowed a glimpse, for the first time, of the complex system within cells for distributing proteins. It quickly became apparent, however, that time‐lapse sequences of exogenously expressed GFP‐labeled proteins can be difficult to interpret. Reasons for this include the relatively low signal that comes from moving proteins and high background rates from stationary proteins and other sources, as well as the difficulty of identifying the origins and destinations of specific vesicular carriers. In this review a range of techniques that have overcome these issues to varying degrees was reviewed and the insights into protein trafficking that they have enabled were discussed. Concentration will be on neurons, as they are highly polarized and, thus, their trafficking systems tend to be accessible for study. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Round cell sarcoma with CIC‐DUX4 gene fusion: Discussion of the distinctive cytomorphologic, immunohistochemical, and molecular features in the differential diagnosis of round cell tumors
Authors: Chebib Ivan , Jo Vickie Y.
Published: January 2016

BACKGROUND

Undifferentiated round cell sarcomas are a heterogeneous group, and include tumors that resemble the Ewing sarcoma family. Although a subset defined by recurrent CIC‐DUX4 gene fusion has been recently characterized, data regarding the cytomorphologic features are currently limited. Two recent fine‐needle aspiration (FNA) cases prompted review of the spectrum of round cell tumors in the differential diagnosis to determine distinctive diagnostic features.

METHODS

Two genetically confirmed FNA cases were identified. Cytomorphologic features were evaluated on FNA smears and hematoxylin and eosin‐stained cell block and concurrent needle biopsy sections, and immunohistochemical studies performed on cell block and biopsy sections were reviewed.

RESULTS

The 2 patients were a 24‐year‐old man with a posterior mediastinal mass and a 69‐year‐old woman with a gluteal mass. FNA smears were cellular with tumor cells present in large groups and singly dispersed. Tumor cells had large, round‐to‐ovoid, hyperchromatic nuclei with irregular membranes, frequent large nucleoli, and a moderate amount of vacuolated cytoplasm. Both cases demonstrated necrosis, and one case had prominent myxoid stroma. Immunohistochemistry demonstrated focal‐to‐multifocal CD99 positivity and diffuse nuclear staining for WT1; staining for cytokeratin, desmin, S‐100, CD34, CD45, and TdT were negative. Fluorescence in situ hybridization demonstrated CIC‐DUX4 fusion in both cases.

CONCLUSIONS

CIC‐DUX4 round cell sarcoma differs from Ewing sarcoma in that it has more atypical cytologic features and lacks the diffuse membranous CD99 staining pattern characteristic of Ewing sarcoma. The differential diagnosis is broad, and requires the judicious use of ancillary studies. Focal‐to‐multifocal CD99 immunoreactivity and diffuse nuclear WT1 positivity is characteristic of CIC‐DUX4 sarcoma, and should prompt molecular testing. Cancer Cytopathol 2016;124:350–61. © 2016 American Cancer Society.
Facilitating visual surveillance with motion detections
Authors: Qi Man
Published: January 2016

Visual surveillance is playing an ever increasing role in criminal detection because of a rapid deployment of surveillance cameras. Motion detection, which refers to the process of detecting a change in the position of an object in relation to the background or the change in the background in relation to the object, has become one of the enabling techniques to facilitate visual surveillance. This paper parallelizes a motion detection algorithm using a cluster of inexpensive computing devices. Custom region of interest is implemented to enhance the performance and accuracy of the motion detection algorithm. The performance of the parallelized algorithm is evaluated from both the scalability in computation and the accuracy in motion detection. Performance evaluation results show that the enhanced algorithm achieves higher accuracy in motion detection with reduced execution times in computation. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
On the existence of chaos in the electronically adjustable structures of the state variable filters
Authors: Petrzela Jiri
Published: January 2016

As demonstrated in the paper, chaotic motion can appear in state variable filters, that is, common network structures dedicated for analog signal processing. In particular, two Kerwin–Huelsman–Newcomb biquadratic filtering sections are considered for theoretical, numerical and experimental analysis. Mathematical models are designed, and conditions for evolution of typical strange attractors are provided. The corresponding largest Lyapunov exponent is calculated and visualized as a function of internal system parameters and the shape of input harmonic waveform. Mutual connection between the mathematical model and the real lumped electronic circuit is discussed in detail. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Diagnostic clues for FNA diagnosis of intranodal palisaded myofibroblastoma, a rare benign lesion, an introspective case report
Authors: Sood Neelam
Published: January 2016

Intranodal palisaded myofibroblastoma (IPM) is a benign entity, characterized by intranodal proliferation of cells of myofibroblastic origin. It has five distinct histologic features: compressed remnants of lymphoid tissue at the periphery, spindle cells with nuclear palisading, intralesional hemorrhage, amianthoid fibers, and intracellular and extracellular fuchsinophilic bodies. The spindle cells are SMA and vimentin (IHC) positive and are negative for S 100, and has a low proliferative index. Cytologic diagnosis of this lesion is a diagnostic challenge and has to be differentiated from other stroma rich lesions including schwannoma. The FNA smears were reviewed after histopathology to look for any specific features. This report highlights the variable character of spindle cells, presence of unique “amanthiod fibers” and blood vessel within cell clusters in MGG stained FNA smears, which can be a useful diagnostic clue. This observation is being reported for the first time. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2016;44:317–323. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
High diagnostic accuracy of core needle biopsy of soft tissue tumors: An institutional experience
Authors: Colletti Shanna M. , Tranesh Ghassan A. , Whetsell Chantel R. , Chambers Larissa N. , Nassar Aziza
Published: January 2016

Background

Core needle biopsy (CNB) has been suboptimal in the subclassification and grading of mesenchymal tumors. Recent advances in molecular diagnostics have shown promise in improving this area. The institutional experience with CNBs of soft tissue lesions on cytology cases and correlated histologic follow‐up has been evaluated. It also addressed the advantageous use of ancillary techniques, including immunohistochemistry and molecular studies.

Methods

Archived cytologic CNB material and reports of patients with soft tissue lesions were retrieved and CNB results with final resection results were compared. Cases were re‐reviewed and data were analyzed with descriptive statistics.

Results

From archived data, 215 cases were extracted of 99 female and 116 male patients (mean [range] age, 59.9 [12–95] years). Categories were malignant (n = 157), suspicious (n = 16), and benign (n = 42). In total, 161 (74.9%) had subsequent surgical resection—130 were malignant; 8, suspicious; and 23, benign. Of the malignant or suspicious cases, 138 had follow‐up histologic resections, with 97.9% concordance. The most common malignant tumor was liposarcoma (n = 41; 29.7%), followed by undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma (30; 21.7%). Of benign tumors, 23 (54.8%) had follow‐up surgical resection. Low‐grade gastrointestinal stromal tumor was the most common benign tumor (26.1%), followed by fibromatosis (21.7%). Cytohistologic correlation for all categories showed 96.9% concordance. Molecular ancillary studies correctly classified malignant tumors in 37 (26.8%) of the 138 cases.

Conclusion

CNB is a reliable modality for evaluating soft tissue neoplasms, with high histologic concordance rate. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2016;44:291–298. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Using Africa's protected area network to estimate the global population of a threatened and declining species: a case study of the Critically Endangered White‐headed Vulture Trigonoceps occipitalis
Authors: Murn Campbell , Mundy Peter , Virani Munir Z. , Borello Wendy D. , Holloway Graham J. , Thiollay Jean‐Marc
Published: January 2016

The White‐headed Vulture Trigonoceps occipitalis (WhV) is uncommon and largely restricted to protected areas across its range in sub‐Saharan Africa. We used the World Database on Protected Areas to identify protected areas (PAs) likely to contain White‐headed Vultures. Vulture occurrence on road transects in Southern, East, and West Africa was adjusted to nests per km2 using data from areas with known numbers of nests and corresponding road transect data. Nest density was used to calculate the number of WhV nests within identified PAs and from there extrapolated to estimate the global population. Across a fragmented range, 400 PAs are estimated to contain 1893 WhV nests. Eastern Africa is estimated to contain 721 nests, Central Africa 548 nests, Southern Africa 468 nests, and West Africa 156 nests. Including immature and nonbreeding birds, and accounting for data deficient PAs, the estimated global population is 5475 ‐ 5493 birds. The identified distribution highlights are alarming: over 78% (n = 313) of identified PAs contain fewer than five nests. A further 17% (n = 68) of PAs contain 5 ‐ 20 nests and 4% (n = 14) of identified PAs are estimated to contain >20 nests. Just 1% (n = 5) of PAs are estimated to contain >40 nests; none is located in West Africa. Whilst ranging behavior of WhVs is currently unknown, 35% of PAs large enough to hold >20 nests are isolated by more than 100 km from other PAs. Spatially discrete and unpredictable mortality events such as poisoning pose major threats to small localized vulture populations and will accelerate ongoing local extinctions. Apart from reducing the threat of poisoning events, conservation actions promoting linkages between protected areas should be pursued. Identifying potential areas for assisted re‐establishment via translocation offers the potential to expand the range of this species and alleviate risk.
Molecular and iridescent feather reflectance data reveal recent genetic diversification and phenotypic differentiation in a cloud forest hummingbird
Authors: Ornelas Juan Francisco , González Clementina , Hernández‐Baños Blanca E. , García‐Moreno Jaime
Published: January 2016

The present day distribution and spatial genetic diversity of Mesoamerican biota reflects a long history of responses to habitat change. The hummingbirdLampornis amethystinusis distributed in northern Mesoamerica, with geographically disjunct populations. Based on sampling across the species range using mitochondrialDNA(mtDNA) sequences and nuclear microsatellites jointly analysed with phenotypic and climatic data, we (1) test whether the fragmented distribution is correlated with main evolutionary lineages, (2) assess body size and plumage color differentiation of populations in geographic isolation, and (3) evaluate a set of divergence scenarios and demographic patterns of the hummingbird populations. Analysis of genetic variation revealed four main groups: blue‐throated populations (Sierra Madre del Sur); two groups of amethyst‐throated populations (Trans‐Mexican Volcanic Belt and Sierra Madre Oriental); and populations east of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec (IT) with males showing an amethyst throat. The most basal split is estimated to have originated in the Pleistocene, 2.39–0.57 million years ago (MYA), and corresponded to groups of populations separated by theIT. However, the estimated recent divergence time between blue‐ and amethyst‐throated populations does not correspond to the 2‐MYneeded to be in isolation for substantial plumage divergence, likely because structurally iridescent colors are more malleable than others. Results of species distribution modeling and Approximate Bayesian Computation analysis fit a model of lineage divergence west of the Isthmus after the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM), and that the species’ suitable habitat was disjunct during past and current conditions. These results challenge the generality of the contraction/expansion glacial model to cloud forest‐interior species and urges management of cloud forest, a highly vulnerable ecosystem to climate change and currently facing destruction, to prevent further loss of genetic diversity or extinction.
Synthesis of Ugi 4‐CR and Passerini 3‐CR Adducts under Mechanochemical Activation
Authors: Polindara‐García Luis A. , Juaristi Eusebio
Published: January 2016

The successful application of a mechanochemical activation strategy that employs high‐speed ball milling (HSBM) conditions for isocyanide‐based multicomponent reactions (IMCRs) was developed. The syntheses of valuable Ugi (by a liquid‐assisted grinding process) and Passerini (under solvent‐free conditions) adducts were achieved by using this method. The protocol disclosed herein allows for the modular synthesis of various compounds according to green chemistry principles, specifically, environmentally friendly conditions, high atom economy, and the absence of toxic byproducts.
A Blockwise Approach to the Synthesis of (1→2)‐Linked Oligosac­char­ides Corresponding to Fragments of the Acid‐Stable β‐Mannan from the Candida albicans Cell Wall
Authors: Karelin Alexander A. , Tsvetkov Yury E. , Paulovičová Ema , Paulovičová Lucia , Nifantiev Nikolay E.
Published: January 2016

Oligomannosides comprising short β‐(1→2)‐oligomannosyl blocks attached through a glycoside bond to an α‐(1→2)‐linked oligomannoside are a constituent of side chains of the mannan from the Candida cell wall. This type of oligomannoside is known as an acid‐stable β‐mannan and corresponds to the antigenic factor 6. In this communication, we report a convergent blockwise synthesis of four spacer‐armed oligomannosides of this type including from 1 to 4 β‐mannosyl and 2–3 α‐mannosyl residues. β‐(1→2)‐Oligomannosyl thioglycosides and sulfoxides containing up to four mannose units were employed for introduction of β‐oligomannoside sequences. The efficiency of β‐mannosylation with mono‐ and oligomannoside donors was shown to depend more on the structure of the reaction partners than on the applied activation protocol. The oligomannosides obtained will be used to prepare various molecular tools for investigation of the Candida cell wall.
Synthesis of 2,3‐Disubstituted Quinazolinone Derivatives through Copper Catalyzed C–H Amidation Reactions
Authors: Kotipalli Trimurtulu , Kavala Veerababurao , Janreddy Donala , Bandi Vijayalakshmi , Kuo Chun‐Wei , Yao Ching‐Fa
Published: January 2016

The synthesis of quinazolinone derivatives was achieved from 2‐iodobenzamide derivatives and various benzylamines, allylamine, and cinnamylamine derivatives through a one‐pot copper‐catalyzed reaction. In this reaction, the amine component (benzylamine/allylamine/cinnamylamine) is N‐arylated with 2‐iodobenzamide derivatives through Ullman coupling, followed by an intramolecular C–H amidation in the presence of copper catalyst.
Foodomics imaging by mass spectrometry and magnetic resonance
Authors: Canela Núria , Rodríguez Miguel Ángel , Baiges Isabel , Nadal Pedro , Arola Lluís
Published: January 2016

This work explores the use of advanced imaging MS (IMS) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques in food science and nutrition to evaluate food sensory characteristics, nutritional value and health benefits. Determining the chemical content and applying imaging tools to food metabolomics offer detailed information about food quality, safety, processing, storage and authenticity assessment. IMS and MRI are powerful analytical systems with an excellent capability for mapping the distribution of many molecules, and recent advances in these platforms are reviewed and discussed, showing the great potential of these techniques for small molecule‐based food metabolomics research.
Integrative transcriptomic and proteomic analysis of the mutant lignocellulosic hydrolyzate‐tolerant Rhodosporidium toruloides
Authors: Qi Feng , Zhao Xuebing , Kitahara Yuki , Li Tian , Ou Xianjin , Du Wei , Liu Dehua , Huang Jianzhong
Published: January 2016

The oleaginous yeast Rhodosporidium toruloides has been considered as an economical lipid producer because it transforms carbohydrates from lignocellulosic hydrolyzate into triglycerides; however, R. toruloides cannot survive in hydrolyzate due to the inhibitors co‐produced by hydrolysis. We have previously reported a plasma mutagenesis‐generated mutant strain M18 that had strong tolerance for the stress environments of hydrolyzate. Here, we applied transcriptomic and proteomic approaches to analyze the global metabolic responses to the stress in hydrolyzate of R. toruloides and elucidate the tolerant mechanism of the mutant strain. The results showed that 57% genes matched and correlated well with their corresponding proteins. Five hundred and seven genes and 366 proteins had their transcription and expression levels changed, respectively, and 39 key genes with significantly changed transcription and expression levels (≥5‐fold changes) were identified. The results demonstrated that four cellular processes and their key genes are likely related to the mechanism of tolerance of M18 strain. Enhanced expression of the key genes in R. toruloides could improve the cellular stress tolerance to lignocellulosic hydrolyzate, while the altered expression of most key genes is probably not caused by mutagenesis, but induced by stressful environments of the hydrolyzate.
High‐Precision Modeling and Optimization of Cogeneration Plants
Authors: Chen Stephanie , Wassel Dennis , Büskens Christof
Published: January 2016

Cogeneration is important to help save on the use of conventional energy resources because it reduces the primary energy consumption for generating useful energy. However, cogeneration plants can be even more efficient if mathematical optimization is used, based on a very precise simulation of the behavior of the plant. We present a new method to model cogeneration plants. It is very precise, and the evaluations of the models are very fast, which enables the use of sequential quadratic programming (SQP)‐based optimization algorithms, and reduces operational costs and emission of CO2. Additionally, the method can be used on different plants and the models can be adapted to the current situation of the plant in real time. Furthermore, an input data reduction has been developed to improve the computational time even further. It also gives a quick overview of the correlations over large amounts of data, which can have 100 000×300 and more data points.
Geomorphic influence on small glacier response to post‐Little Ice Age climate warming: Julian Alps, Europe
Authors: Colucci Renato R.
Published: January 2016

The evolution of glaciers and ice patches, as well as the equilibrium‐line altitude (ELA) since the Little Ice Age (LIA) maximum were investigated in the Julian Alps (south‐eastern European Alps) including ice masses that were previously unreported. Twenty‐three permanent firn and ice bodies have been recognized in the 1853 km2 of this alpine sector, covering a total area in 2012 of 0.385 km2, about one‐fifth of the area covered during the LIA (2.350 km2). These features were classified as very small glaciers, glacierets or ice patches, with major contribution to the mass balance from avalanches and wind‐blown snow. Localized snow accumulation is also enhanced in the area due to the irregular karst topography. The ice masses in the region are at the lowest elevations of any glaciers in the Alpine Chain, and are characterized by low dynamics. The ELAs of the two major LIA glaciers (Canin and Triglav) have been established at 2275 ± 10 m and 2486 ± 10 m, respectively, by considering the reconstructed area and digital elevation model (DEM) and using an accumulation area ratio (AAR) of 0.44 ± 0.07, typical of small cirque glaciers. Changes in the ELA and glaciers extension indicate a decoupling from climate. This is most evident in the smallest avalanche‐dominated ice bodies, which are currently controlled mainly by precipitation. The damming effect of moraine ridges and pronival ramparts at the snout of small ice bodies in the Julian Alps represents a further geomorphological control on the evolution of such ice masses, which seem to be resilient to recent climate warming instead of rapidly disappearing as should be expected. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Toxicological and ecotoxicological risk-based prioritization of pharmaceuticals in the natural environment
Authors: Guo Jiahua , Sinclair Chris J. , Selby Katherine , Boxall Alistair B.A.
Published: January 2016

Approximately 1500 active pharmaceutical ingredients are currently in use; however, the environmental occurrence and impacts of only a small proportion of these have been investigated. Recognizing that it would be impractical to monitor and assess all pharmaceuticals that are in use, several previous studies have proposed the use of prioritization approaches to identify substances of most concern so that resources can be focused on these. All of these previous approaches suffer from limitations. In the present study, the authors draw on experience from previous prioritization exercises and present a holistic approach for prioritizing pharmaceuticals in the environment in terms of risks to aquatic and soil organisms, avian and mammalian wildlife, and humans. The approach considers both apical ecotoxicological endpoints as well as potential nonapical effects related to the therapeutic mode of action. Application of the approach is illustrated for 146 active pharmaceuticals that are used either in the community or in hospital settings in the United Kingdom. Using the approach, 16 compounds were identified as a potential priority. These substances include compounds belonging to the antibiotic, antidepressant, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, antiobesity, and estrogen classes as well as associated metabolites. In the future, the prioritization approach should be applied more broadly around the different regions of the world. Environ Toxicol Chem 2016;35:1550–1559. © 2016 SETAC
Formation mechanism of the global Dupal isotope anomaly
Authors: Zhang Zhen , Li Sanzhong , Suo Yanhui , Somerville I. D. , Li Xiyao
Published: January 2016

The Dupal anomaly has been a frequently discussed feature since it was first proposed three decades ago. We here limit the distribution of the Dupal anomaly based on more than 10 000 Sr–Nd–Pb isotopic composition analyses and classify the anomaly into three types, located in three different oceans and with different mechanisms of formation. The Dupal anomaly in the East Asian Continental Margin subduction zone is related to enriched mantle II, which may originate from the recycling of the subducting plate or continental mantle. The high μ and enriched mantle I are the reason for the Dupal anomaly in the Pacific Ocean, which is related to the superplume. However, the source of the Dupal anomaly in the Indian Ocean and the Southern Atlantic Ocean is a mixture of enriched mantle I and enriched mantle II, and they come from the African superplume and the recycling of subcontinental mantle or continental crust of Gondwana. In consideration of all the above factors, we suggest that the superplume from the core–mantle boundary, the recycling subducting plate and continental mantle are the main characteristics of the global Dupal anomaly. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Natural history and management of esophagogastric varices in chronic noncirrhotic, nontumoral portal vein thrombosis
Authors: Noronha Ferreira Carlos , Seijo Susana , Plessier Aurelie , Silva‐Junior Gilberto , Turon Fanny , Rautou Pierre‐Emmanuel , Baiges Anna , Bureau Christophe , Bosch Jaime , Hernández‐Gea Virginia , Valla Dominique , García‐Pagan Juan‐Carlos
Published: January 2016

In patients with chronic noncirrhotic, nontumoral portal vein thrombosis (PVT), the usually recommended strategy for endoscopic screening and management of varices is the same as in cirrhosis. However, the efficacy of this policy in patients with PVT is unknown. We assessed the course of gastroesophageal varices in a large cohort of patients with chronic PVT. Patients prospectively registered in two referral centers for vascular liver disorders were eligible for the study. Endpoints were development and growth of varices and the incidence and outcome of portal hypertension‐related bleeding. Included were 178 patients with chronic PVT. Median follow‐up was 49 (1‐598) months. Variceal bleeding was the initial manifestation in 27 (15%) patients. Initial endoscopy in the remaining 151 patients showed no varices in 52 (34%), small esophageal varices in 28 (19%), large esophageal varices (LEVs) in 60 (40%), and gastric varices without LEVs in 11 (7%). Ascites and splenomegaly were independent predictors for the presence of varices. In patients without varices, the probability of developing them was 2%, 22%, and 22% at 1, 3, and 5 years, respectively. In those with small esophageal varices, growth to LEVs was observed in 13%, 40%, and 54% at 1, 3, and 5 years, respectively. In patients with LEVs on primary prophylaxis, probability of bleeding was 9%, 20%, and 32% at 1, 3, and 5 years, respectively. Nine (5%) patients died after a median 51 (8‐280) months, only one due to variceal bleeding. Conclusions: The course of varices in chronic noncirrhotic, nontumoral PVT appears to be similar to that in cirrhosis; using the same therapeutic approach as for cirrhosis is associated with a low risk of bleeding and death. (Hepatology 2016;63:1640‐1650)
Health service utilization and access to medicines among Syrian refugee children in Jordan
Authors: Doocy Shannon , Lyles Emily , Akhu‐Zaheya Laila , Burton Ann , Weiss William
Published: January 2016

Background

With over one million Syrian refugee children in the region, we undertook this study to characterize care‐seeking behaviors and health service utilization for child refugees with the aim of informing humanitarian programming for non‐camp settings in Jordan.

Methods

A survey of Syrian refugees living outside of camps in Jordan was conducted using a 125 × 12 cluster design with probability proportional to size sampling to obtain a representative sample. The questionnaire focused on access to health services, including a module on care seeking for children.

Results

Care seeking was high with 90.9% of households with a child less than 18 years seeking medical care the last time it was needed. Households most often sought care for children in the public sector (54.6%), followed by private (36.5%) and charity sectors (8.9%). Among child care seekers, 88.6% were prescribed medication during the most recent visit, 90.6% of which obtained the medication. Overall, 49.4% of households reported out‐of‐pocket expenditures for either the consultation or prescribed medications at the most recent visit (mean $US21.1 and median $US0).

Conclusions

Syrian refugees had good access to care for their sick children at the time of the survey; however, this has likely deteriorated since the survey because of the withdrawal of free access for refugees. The number of refugees in Jordan and relative accessibility of care has resulted in a large burden on the health system; the Jordanian government will require additional support if current levels of health access are to be maintained for Syrian refugees. © 2016 The Authors. The International Journal of Health Planning and Management published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.