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Introduction: Laparoscopic Whipple’s pancreaticoduodenectomy (WPD) is one of the most advanced minimally invasive procedures. In recent years, with advancements in minimally invasive surgery, laparoscopic WPD has been increasingly adopted as a safe and feasible technique. This study aims to compare the short-term and long-term outcomes of laparoscopic WPD to open WPD in resectable ampullary, periampullary and head of pancreas malignancies. Patients and Methods: A retrospective analysis of a prospectively maintained database of patients who underwent WPD from January 2015 to January 2021 at the department of surgical gastroenterology in a tertiary care medical college hospital was conducted. Patient demographics and pre-operative details, intraoperative parameters (operating time and blood loss), post-operative length of hospital stay, median intensive care unit (ICU) stay, time to resume oral diet, post-operative complications, interventional procedures, mortality, 3-year survival, 3 year recurrence-free survival and overall survival were analysed. Results: Forty-two patients underwent WPD during our study period; 14 patients underwent laparoscopic WPD and 28 patients underwent open WPD. None required conversion. The majority of the patients had periampullary carcinoma in both the groups. Laparoscopic WPD showed a trend towards shorter ICU stays, hospital stays and surgical site infections (SSIs) compared to open WPD. The median operating time was significantly longer in the laparoscopic WPD group (380 min) compared to the open group (285 min). However, median blood loss was significantly lower in the laparoscopic group (250 mL vs. 300 mL). The pancreas-specific post-operative complications like delayed gastric emptying, post-operative pancreatic fistula or post-operative pancreatic haemorrhage did not differ significantly between the groups. All patients had R0 resection and the mean lymph node yield was comparable between the two groups (14.92 vs. 13.42). The reoperation rate or mortality rate did not show any statistical significance between the two groups. The overall survival was 46 months in the open group and 48 months in the laparoscopic group. Three‑year survival was 74.1% in the open WPD group and 69.2% in the laparoscopic group. Three‑year recurrence‑free survival was 55.5% in the open group and 69.23% in the laparoscopic group. Conclusion: Laparoscopic WPD appears to be safe and feasible, with similar short-term and long-term survival outcomes. With a trend favouring laparoscopic WPD in terms of blood loss, hospital and ICU stay and post-operative SSIs, it should be offered to selected patients when the expertise is available. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oral competence is an important functional component of all patients affected with oral cavity malignancy who are undergoing different treatment modalities. Our primary objectives were to assess and compare the functional outcomes of patients with carcinoma lip undergoing various therapeutic interventions at our institution on the basis of FIGS (Functional Intra Oral Glasgow Scale) and FLiGS (Functional Lip Glasgow Scale) scoring systems. Between January 2021 and April 2022, 23 patients who were histologically confirmed with carcinoma lip were included in our analysis on accrual and were followed up post treatment. A questionnaire was given to the patients translated into their native language, and the responses were analyzed based on the FIGS (Functional Intra Oral Glasgow Score) and FLiGS (Functional Lip Glasgow Scale). Total number of patients that underwent surgical intervention were 78.3% (n-18), and the patients who underwent concurrent chemo-radiotherapy were 21.7% (n-5). Based on the average FIGS and FLIGS scoring and on the responses given by the patients, primary closure and local flap reconstruction scored relatively better (FIGS 15/FLIGS 25) than other forms of reconstruction techniques. Patients undergoing forehead flap reconstruction had responded to have a poorer functional outcome (FIGS 12/FLIGS 22]. Patients undergoing concurrent chemo-radiotherapy also had poor functional outcomes due to post radiotherapy sequelae as per the scoring system. Oncological outcomes in oral cavity malignancies need to emphasize on the functional component of these patients. FIGS (Functional Intraoral Glasgow Scale) and FLiGS (Functional Lip Glasgow Scale) scoring systems are a simple tool that can assess the functional outcomes after various definitive therapeutic interventions for patients with carcinoma lip. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Reticulocytes are red blood cell precursors with an average lifespan of 1-2 days. Reticulocyte hemoglobin equivalent (Ret-He) is an early marker of iron deficiency (ID) erythropoiesis and reflects real-time information regarding the synthesis of young erythrocytes in the bone marrow. The objective of this study is to determine the diagnostic utility of Ret-He in patients having microcytic hypochromic anemia in comparison with serum ferritin and iron studies. Objectives: The objective of this study is to determine the diagnostic utility of the Ret-He parameter in patients having microcytic hypochromic anemia in comparison with the serum ferritin, iron studies and its role in routine hematological screening for nutritional deficiency anemia like ID. Design and Settings: The design involves observational study. Materials and Methods: A hospital-based observational study was carried out in a referral hospital. Hematological parameters were processed using Sysmex XN1000 (Sysmex Corporation, Kobe, Japan) analyzer and were compared with Serum iron studies using biochemistry analyzer (VITROS® 250 Chemistry System) from 201 participants who presented with microcytic hypochromic anemia. Main Outcome and Measures: Relationship of Ret-He parameter and its diagnostic utility for screening of iron-deficient states. Sample Size: The sample size was 201. Results: When serum ferritin is taken as "the gold standard" to detect ID, with Ret-He cutoff of 27.15 pg/cell, we found a statistically significant positive correlation between Ret-He and serum ferritin (P < 0.001). We found a sensitivity of 57.37% and specificity of 75.95% with area under the curve of 0.681, positive predictive value of 100%, negative predictive value of 3.8%, and accuracy of 62.19% for Ret-He in detecting ID anemia (IDA). Also found a statistically significant negative correlation between Ret-He and total iron binding capacity (P < 0.001). There was no statistical correlation between Ret-He and serum iron levels in our study. Conclusions: The present study suggests Ret-He is one of the better and more reliable hematological parameters indicating ID and, when used along with biochemical parameters like serum ferritin, can give valuable inputs in a better screening and diagnosis of IDA; hence proper treatment is possible. Limitations: The multicentric study is required to standardize Ret-He reference values, and follow-up to therapy of the subjects was not done. Additional hemoglobin variant analysis data would have been favorable to the study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We achieved a facile and scalable synthesis of N(2)-free C(3)-aryl isoindolinones in three steps from the corresponding phthalimides and electron-rich aromatic compounds. The reduction of one of the two carbonyls in N(2)-2-nitrobenzyl phthalimides with sodium borohydride followed by organo-catalysed (PTSA, 10 mol%) condensation with electron-rich aromatic compounds furnished C(3)-aryl isoindolinones. The subsequent removal of the 2-nitrobenzyl group under neutral photolytic conditions delivered N(2)-free C(3)-aryl isoindolinones in excellent overall yields. The intramolecular version of condensation delivered tetracyclic isoindolinones, for example nuevamine, in excellent yields with an extremely favourable E-factor, thus paving the way for the scalable and green synthesis of the alkaloid and its analogues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A facile and high-yielding synthesis of the hydrophobic and the hexane soluble H-cardanol incorporated C(3)-aminoisoindolinones has been successfully achieved. Additionally, the synthesis of the H-cardanol embedded tetracyclic C(3)-aminoisoindolinones has also been successfully achieved. The H-cardanol incorporated isoindolinones are low melting, lipophilic solids and readily soluble in hydrocarbon solvents - a property useful for topical administration of medicinal drugs. The UV-Vis spectra of the C(3)-aminoisoindolinones with two H-cardanol units do not indicate an intramolecular association between the two aromatic rings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the current work, light weight epoxy bio‐composites are created for low‐cost technological applications using luffa aegyptiaca fiber and biochar particles derived from coco husk (CHB). This study aims to evaluate the effects of CHB particles added at different concentrations (3 vol% and 5 vol%) on the dynamic mechanical, ballistic and tribology behavior of epoxy composites constructed from luffa aegyptiaca fiber with different fiber loading (20%, 30% and 40 vol%). The composites are prepared using hand layup process provided with post curing operation. The combination of 3 vol% CHB particles and 40 vol% luffa aegyptiaca fiber having the improved viscoelastic properties by means of high storage modulus (5.05 GPa) and low loss factor (0.31). Moreover, this composite shows better ballistic properties in terms of low velocity impact energy (17.1 J). The optical image of impact damage behavior shows minimum damage of impactor on the composite and penetration effect found to be lower. This luffa aegyptiaca fiber reinforced epoxy composite also shows the lowest value of coefficient of friction (COF) with 0.48 and the lowest specific wear rate of 0.011 mm3/Nm. These epoxy composites made from luffa aegyptiaca fiber and CHB particles may be useful in a variety of engineering applications that can use materials for manufacture sporting goods, home furnishings, food packaging, and transportation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the current work, the experiments on Careya Arborea (CA) fiber have been carried out for physio-chemical properties, thermal properties, and other characteristics. The chemical composition of CA fiber has been identified with rich content of cellulose (71.17%), lignin (14.95%), hemicellulose (27.86%), small amount of wax (0.18%) and ash (0.78%). CA fiber crystallinity index of 85.05% with crystalline size 7.40 nm is seen from XRD analysis. The surface morphology and roughness of the CA fiber have been investigated using scanning electronic microscopy and found an average diameter of 28 nm, Atomic force microscopy (AFM) with an average surface roughness of 33.458 nm and Energy dispersive X-ray micro analyzer to confirm the element configuration. Thermal properties of CA fiber were also measured by Thermogravimetry analysis and Differential scanning calorimeter analysis. The results showed the thermal stability of upto 248°C and degradation temperature of 385°C which is suitable for polymer composite fabrication. The chemical functional groups available in CA fiber were identified by FTIR. The density of the CA fiber was 1140 kg/m³ which is lower than the existing fibers and exhibited respectable tensile properties. The results were compared with latest natural fibers to discern the versatility in various applications such as aerospace, automotive and automobile industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

INTRODUCTION: Smoking appears to be as old as human civilization. Tobacco smoking was introduced into India by Portuguese traders during 1600 A.D. Its use and production proliferated to such a great extent that today India is the second largest producer of tobacco in the world. Cigarette smoking remains the leading cause of preventable premature morbidity and mortality in many countries around the world. AIM OF STUDY: To assess and compare efficacy of various available strategies of smoking cessation. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This is a randomized open label comparative intervention study conducted on patients attending Pulmonary Medicine Department (Both IP & OP) at Government General Hospital, Kurnool Medical College; Kurnool over a period of 1 year from December 2020 to November 2021. Patients were then divided into three groups randomly (90 in each group), using computer generated random number integers: Group A: Behavioural interventions (BI) N= 90, Group B: Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) N= 90 and Group C: Both BI+NRT N= 90. Results: About 74% of the subjects had initiated their habit of tobacco use at an early age between 15-20years. There was no statistically significant difference between study groups. For ease of communication and statistical analysis only values of 0 week, 3rd week, 6th week, 9th week and 12th week are taken here. For ease of communication and statistical analysis very low, low and moderate severity of dependence groups have been combined together as low and very high and high severity of dependence groups have been combined together as high and discussed. Conclusion: The quit rates at end of the study were 26.7% with NRT, 23.3% with BI and 33.3% with BI+NRT. The combination of modalities had better quit rates compared to other two groups. There was no statistically significant difference between groups with regards to reduction in craving as was evidenced by the mean QSU-B scores as well reduction in severity of dependence as was evidenced by the mean FTND scores. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biomaterials and technologies are encouraging tissue regeneration strategies to replace missing or damaged tissues. They possess special qualities that enable direct contact with living tissue without triggering unfavourable immune rejection reactions. Dental biomaterials are utilized in surgical treatments, endodontic materials, dental implants, and other restorative procedures as well as in orthodontic devices.There is a dire need to identify molecular and cellular level of materials interaction with dental tissues.Recent advances in dental biomaterials pertain to cell and gene mediating properties. Formulation of newer biomaterials to fulfil the incessant need is the need of the hour. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, we report a new methodology to access tetracyclic heterocyclic compounds incorporating fused isoindolinone and benzimidazoline or isoindolinone and quinazoline motifs. The palladium-(II) catalyzed intramolecular Buchwald-Hartwig C–N coupling involving the C(3) amino and the N(2) 2-bromophenyl groups provided coveted heterocycles in excellent yields. The methodology is versatile, highly efficient, and has a wide scope for the synthesis of a range of medicinally important tetracyclic C(3)-aminoisoindolinones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the current context, supercapatteries emerge as highly desirable candidates capable of merging both energy and power density within a single device. Battery-type metal oxide materials, combined with capacitive-based materials, stand out as promising candidates for high-performance supercapatteries. This investigation centers on the synthesis of nanocrystalline ZnMn 2 O 4 (ZMO) and CoMn 2 O 4 (CMO) through a straightforward hydrothermal method, followed by their physico-electrochemical characterization. Electrochemical analysis reveals that ZMO exhibits notably enhanced charge storage capability compared to CMO. This superiority can be attributed to favourable electro-structural properties, and stable redox chemistry of ZMO. The real-time performance of ZnMn 2 O 4 was further assessed by fabricating a hybrid asymmetric supercapattery device (ZnMn 2 O 4 ||NrGO), which achieves a specific capacity of 232 C g−1 at a current density of 1 A g−1. The hybrid asymmetric device underwent rigorous stability testing for 4000 cycles at a current density of 2 A g−1, showcasing remarkable performance with a 92 % retention of its initial capacity. The device demonstrated a power density of 980 W kg−1 and an energy density of 63 Wh kg−1, highlighting its considerable promise in the field. • ➢Spinel-based metal oxides (ZnMn 2 O 4 and CoMn 2 O 4) were synthesized using microwave and hydrothermal heating and their electrochemical performances are compared. • ZnMn 2 O 4 shown better charge storage property and rate capability than CoMn 2 O 4 due to difference in their spinel structures. • The full cell performance of ZnMn 2 O 4 (positive electrode) is evaluated fabricating a hybrid asymmetric device using NrGO as negative electrode. • The hybrid asymmetric supercapattery device (ZnMn 2 O 4.||NrGO) attains a power density of 980 W kg−1 while maintaining an energy density of 63 Wh kg−1 proving a potential practical charge storage device. • The plausible electrochemical mechanism occurs in two-electrode system is presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

C(3)‐Aminoisoindolinones have attracted the attention of medicinal chemists due to their unique and stable N−C−N substructure and possibilities for facile and scalable synthesis of combinatorial libraries. We discovered that para‐toluenesulfonic acid (PTSA), an organic protic acid, efficiently catalyzes condensation of isoindolinone‐3‐ols with primary and secondary amines to furnish C(3) N‐substituted isoindolinones in high yields. The N−C bond formation reaction is highly efficient and experimentally simple. The method replaces known transition metal catalysts involving Cu, Pt, Pd or Au. It works efficiently for both intra‐ and inter‐molecular variants. Furthermore, it is amenable for synthesis of C(3)‐aminoisoindolinones with free N(2) via photolytic deprotection of the 2‐nitrobenzyl group. We have demonstrated application of the method for synthesis of a variety of medicinally relevant bicyclic and tricyclic C(3)‐aminoisoindolinones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As there have been incorporated fundamental duties in Indian Constitution even though they were incorporated at a later stage after the passage of the Indian Constitution. The present paper is to make a critical analysis to measure the legal dimensions of the Fundamental Duties enshrined in Part IV-A of the Constitution of India. It is to know whether the incorporation of fundamental duties in the Indian Constitution is merely a formality or a serious work. It is also to know to what extent the Fundamental Duties are enforceable by Indian laws and whether there is enough instrumentality or machinery in the form of laws or other ways (extra-legal disciplines) to make them abided by the people. As these duties belong to citizens of India so this research work is to know why some of these duties or all cannot be followed by foreigners and by the State as well. It is to know whether merely legislations for the enforcement of fundamental duties are enough or some other ways like necessary public opinion and social climate which will give space for implementation of fundamental duties are also required. It is also to be acquainted with whether any other new duties can be added to Indian Constitution and what are the methods to get them enforced among the people of India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Efficient electrocatalysts are critical in the advancement of fuel cell technologies and should have superior activity for alcohol oxidation reactions (AORs). Herein, we report a facile one-pot method to synthesize platinum-bismuth nanoalloy (Pt–Bi) on reduced graphene oxide (RGO), enacting the methanol oxidation reaction (MOR) and ethanol oxidation reaction (EOR) in an acidic solution. The reduction of the Pt and Bi precursors is co-mediated via l -ascorbic acid and ethylene glycol (EG) to afford Pt–Bi nanoparticles with an average size of 5.6 nm highly dispersed on the surface of RGO. Pt–Bi nanoparticle decoration is confirmed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX). X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) results show the existence of the Pt–Bi metallic phase with minimal oxide. Electrochemical experiments using cyclic voltammetry (CV) reveal that the Pt–Bi/RGO catalyst is considerably more active than commercial Pt/C for AORs. Notably, the mass activity (J mass) of MOR is enhanced by 1.3-fold and EOR is enhanced by 2.3-fold, highlighting the influence of the Pt–Bi interfacial concept. Overall, the results suggest that Pt–Bi/RGO is a highly promising candidate for use in direct alcohol fuel cells. Schematic representation of the Pt–Bi/RGO electrocatalyst for methanol and ethanol direct oxidation reactions. [Display omitted] • Pt–Bi alloy on RGO synthesized successfully by a one-pot method. • Pt–Bi/RGO provides more active sites for methanol and ethanol electro-oxidation. • Bi enhances Pt–Bi nanoparticle CO tolerance for alcohol oxidation. • Pt–Bi/RGO shows mass activity of 0.458 and 0.384 mA μg⁻1-Pt for MOR and EOR. • Improved catalyst stability and activity due to Pt–Bi synergy on RGO support. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses that PRRT2 Gene Mutations in Indian Paroxysmal Kinesigenic Dyskinesia Patients. Topics discussed include Paroxysmal kinesigenic dyskinesia (PKD) is an involuntary movement disorder belonging to the category of Paroxysmal Dyskinesias(PDs); and PKD is one of the rare movement disorders characterized by brief, episodic hyperkinetic movement abnormalities like dystonia, chorea, hemiballismus, or with the combination.

Series compensation is generally used with long transmission lines to increase power transfer through the line and to enhance system stability. In the case of voltage source converter-based series flexible AC transmission system (FACTS) controller, an energy storage device can be incorporated at the DC bus which further improves control of real and reactive power flow. However, four-quadrant operation of FACTS controllers with energy storage device poses new challenges for the operation, control and protection of power system. Most commonly used protection scheme for long transmission lines, the distance relay, may not be reliable in case of lines compensated with series FACTS controllers. This paper proposes a new wavelet transform-based relay logic for fast and reliable detection, and classification of faults in a hybrid series-compensated long transmission line incorporating a passive series capacitor and static synchronous series compensator with energy storage device (SSSC-ES). The proposed relay logic is also able to accurately estimate the location of fault, and a wavelet transform-based boundary condition is used to discriminate between internal and external faults. It is shown through various simulation case studies that the four-quadrant operation of SSSC and fault resistance have negligible impact on the performance of the wavelet transform-based relay. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the title compound, C24H23N3O3S, the dihedral angle between the fused pyrazole and pyridine rings is 1.76 (7). The benzene and methoxy phenyl rings make dihedral angles of 44.8 (5) and 63.86 (5), respectively, with the pyrazolo[3,4-b] pyridine moiety. An intramolecular short SO contact [3.215 (2) A˚ ] is observed. The crystal packing features C—H...&#960 interactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We have achieved a simple and convenient synthesis of several C(4) substituted 5-ylidenepyrrol-(5H)-ones from 3-aryl/heteroaryl/alkyl 3-cyanopropionates and ethyl/methyl bromoacetates via a useful variation of the classical Blaise reaction. The products were further transformed to useful small organic molecules (SOMs). Studies on the reactivity of nitriles via intra and inter-molecular competition experiments showed that anchimeric assistance from the neighbouring and strategically located ester is crucial for higher reactivity of the nitrile in the 3-cyanopropionates towards the Blaise reaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the title compound, C18H18ClN3O2S, the dihedral angle between the fused pyrazole and pyridine rings is 3.81-(9)°. The benzene ring forms dihedral angles of 35.08-(10) and 36.26-(9)° with the pyrazole and pyridine rings, respectively. In the crystal, weak C-H···O hydrogen bonds connect molecules along [100]. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cardiac perfusion PET is increasingly used to assess ischemia and cardiovascular risk and can also provide quantitative myocardial blood flow (MBF) and flow reserve (MBFR) values. These have been shown to be prognostic biomarkers of adverse outcomes, yet MBF and MBFR quantification remains underutilized in clinical settings. We compare MBFR to traditional cardiovascular risk factors in a large and diverse clinical population (60% African-American, 35.3% Caucasian) to rank its relative contribution to cardiovascular outcomes. Major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), including unstable angina, non-ST and ST-elevation myocardial infarction, stroke, and death, were assessed for consecutive patients who underwent rest-dipyridamole stress 82Rb PET cardiac imaging from 2012–2015 at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania (n = 1283, mean follow-up 2.3 years). Resting MBF (1.1 ± 0.4 ml/min/g) was associated with adverse cardiovascular outcomes. MBFR (2.1 ± 0.8) was independently and inversely associated with MACE. Furthermore, MBFR was more strongly associated with MACE than both traditional cardiovascular risk factors and the presence of perfusion defects in regression analysis. Decision tree analysis identified MBFR as superior to established cardiovascular risk factors in predicting outcomes. Incorporating resting MBF and MBFR in CAD assessment may improve clinical decision making. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present paper discusses about a simple, precise and validated method for the determination of selegiline loaded solid lipid nanoparticles. The study was carried as per the parameters laid down in ICH guidelines. Maximum wavelength of selegiline in 8:2 methanol: chloroform mixture was selected at 258nm. The method was found to be linear in the range of 200µg/mL to 1000µg/mL with correlation coefficient R2 of 0.994. Method was successfully validating as per ICH guidelines. Moreover, this method was simple, sensitive and easy to apply and can be performed at laboratory scale. Hence, the proposed method can be used for analysis of determination of selegiline loaded solid lipid nanoparticles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The C(4) N‐heteroaryl 2‐amino‐3‐nitro‐4H‐chromenes are podophyllotoxin (POD) mimics as they possess the pharmacophore features of the anticancer natural product. We have achieved a facile synthesis of several such 4H‐chromenes by substitution of C(4) SMe in N‐alkyl 4‐(methylthio)‐3‐nitro‐4H‐chromen‐2‐amines with heteroaromatic amines like 2‐aminopyridines and 2‐aminopyrimidines. Resulting 4H‐chromenes were evaluated for anticancer activity against prostate and lung cancer cell lines. Two of the 4H‐chromenes showed significant anti‐cancer activity, even better than POD. Both of them were non‐toxic towards normal cell‐lines. In silico ADMET studies revealed drug‐likeliness of all the 4H‐chromenes. Molecular docking studies with αβ tubulin concurred with in vivo results and revealed that the 4H‐chromenes bind to the active site of POD. Molecular dynamics simulation studies on the complexes of αβ tubulin with the two best 4H‐chromenes revealed high stability. Overall, our studies revealed that the two 4H‐chromenes could act as lead compounds for further development of potent anticancer drugs. All the newly synthesized 4H‐chromenes were subjected to in vivo anti‐cancer activity against prostate and lung cancer cell lines. The studies revealed that two of them 18 q and 18 s exhibited IC50values better than POD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract An efficient and single-step iodine catalyzed and metal-free synthesis of di and tri-substituted 2-methylfuran derivatives were achieved from 1-popargyl-1,2-diols. Stereospecific synthesis of starting 1,2-diols was achieved by indium mediated Barbier type propargylation on corresponding keto-alcohols or by sodium borohydride mediated reduction of 2-hydroxy-2-propargyl ketones. The furan synthesis proceeded through iodine mediated 5-exo-trig cyclization, dehydration and reductive deiodination. The method was applied to the synthesis of 2-methylfuran fused to phenanthrene, pyrene and acenaphthylene rings. Graphical abstract Image 1 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A conceptually new synthesis of pyridine rings by a [C4 + CN] assembly has been developed by applying a vinylogous version of the classic Blaise reaction. The zinc-mediated reaction of (het)aryl or alkyl nitriles with ethyl-4-bromocrotonate provided a variety of C(6)-substituted pyridin-2-ones in a single-step. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cadmium is the toxic metal selected for adsorption in this study and adsorbent of interest was activated carbons prepared from Bauhinia Purpurea leaves as a plant biomass. Batch experimental studies conducted for the given adsorbent imparted that the experimental data were fitted very well with the Freundlich isotherm for the Cadmium adsorption process. The sorption kinetic studies for a given adsorbent indicated that the adsorption tends to follow the pseudo-second order. The suitability of kinetic models followed in the order by Second - order kinetic model > First - order model >Elovich model > Intra-particle diffusion model. The mean adsorption energy E value of Cadmium adsorption was decreased with increasing isothermal temperature (303-323K) from 1.936 to 1.79 kJ/mole. It was observed that the scope of an ordinary free energy credited to physical adsorption and the force of attraction between the adsorbate and adsorbent is very weak, therefore this type of adsorption can be easily reversed by heating or by decreasing the pressure. The characterization of metal-adsorbent interactions before and after adsorption was studied using SEM, FTIR and XRD techniques. FTIR spectrum of raw activated carbon of Bauhinia Purpurea leaves reveals that there were a large number of hydroxyl and carboxyl groups present on the surface of the adsorbent, which possibly reacted with metal ions in aqueous solution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A study examining the fatigue failure mechanism of self-piercing riveted (SPR) joints between aluminum alloy 6111-T4 and 5754-O is presented in this paper. In particular, the high-cycle fatigue behavior of the SPR joints in the lap-shear configuration is characterized. Experimental fatigue testing revealed that failure of SPR joints occurred because of cracks propagating through the sheet thickness at locations away from the rivet. In-depth postmortem analysis showed that significant fretting wear occurred at the location of the fatigue crack initiation. Energy dispersive X-ray of the fretting debris revealed the presence of aluminum oxide that is consistent with fretting initiated fatigue damage. High-fidelity finite element analysis of the SPR process revealed high surface contact pressure at the location of fretting-initiated fatigue determined by postmortem analysis of failed coupons. Furthermore, fatigue modeling predictions of the number of cycles to failure based on linear elastic fracture mechanics supports the conclusion that fretting-initiated fatigue occurred at regions of high surface contact pressure and not at locations of nominal high-stress concentration at the rivet. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Extramedullary plasmacytomas are rare solitary tumors consisting of neoplastic plasma cell proliferations other than bone. In contrast to the medullary plasmacytoma, which are localized to the bone, these tumors are localized to submucosal areas, with 80% of them occurring in the head and neck. These tumors do not usually disseminate, but may be locally aggressive and destroy adjacent structures. Here, we present a case report of extramedullary plasmacytoma of the buccal mucosa who has been treated surgically in our institution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Chronic hepatitis C virus ( HCV) infection is the leading cause of cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma ( HCC) in the United States ( US) and an emerging cause in China. Aim To compare the clinical characteristics of hepatitis C patients in the US and China, and factors influencing disease stage. Methods Prospective study of 2 cohorts of HCV patients recruited at 1 site in the US and 3 sites in China. Standardised questionnaire on risk factors and medical history were used and diagnosis of cirrhosis and HCC was based on pre-defined criteria. Results One thousand nine hundred and fifty seven patients (1000 US and 957 China) were enrolled. US patients were more likely to be men (61.4% vs 48.5%), older (median age 57 vs 53 years), obese (38.4% vs 16.8%) and diabetic (21.8% vs 10.8%). A significantly higher per cent of US patients had cirrhosis (38.2% vs 16.0%) and HCC (14.1% vs 2.7%). Investigator estimated time at infection in US was 10 years earlier than in Chinese patients but US patients were more likely to have advanced disease even after stratifying for duration of infection. Study site in the US, older age, truncal obesity, diabetes and prior HCV treatment were significant predictors of advanced disease on multivariate analysis. Conclusions HCV patients in the US had more advanced liver disease than those in China. We speculate that underlying fatty liver disease may be a major contributor to this difference, and management of glycometabolic abnormalities should occur in parallel with anti-viral therapy to achieve optimal outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We have achieved a facile synthesis of a combinatorial library of densely substituted pyrazolo[3,4-b]-4,7-dihydropyridines--the mimics of antigenital wart drug podophyllotoxin--from 5-aminopyrazoles and 4-(methylthio) 4H-chromenes. The C(4) pyrazolyl 4H-chromenes, which also possess structural features of podophyllotoxin, were isolable intermediates in the two-step, one-pot condensation. The condensation took place in a one-pot, multicomponent manner when 3-oxo-3-phenylpropanenitriles, hydrazine (precursors for 5-aminopyrazoles) and 4-(methylthio)-4H-chromenes were heated in refluxing ethanol. The condensation, however, stops at 4H-chromene stage when methyl hydrazine or phenylhydrazine were employed. Our findings offer an opportunity for synthesis of a combinatorial library of podophyllotoxin mimics, thus paving the way for discovery of lead candidates for cancer treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The synthesis of conformationally restricted and facially biased bridged morpholine derivatives fused to a phenanthrene ring system was prepared in a three-step sequence involving: (i) Voight rearrangement; (ii) stereoselective reduction of ketone and (iii) iodine mediated cyclisation, the α-allyl-α-hydroxy-ketones gave the corresponding bridged N-substituted morpholines. One of the bridged morpholine derivatives fused to a phenanthrene ring system was optically active. The NMR spectral analysis and theoretical studies show that substitution on nitrogen prefers exo-orientation, possibly to avoid steric interactions with the phenanthrene moiety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the postgenomic era, a new strategy for chemical dereplication of polyketide anti-infective drugs requires novel genomics and chromatographic strategies. An endosymbiotic fungal strain CLB38 was isolated from the root tissue of Combretum latifolium Blume (Combretaceae) which was collected from the Western Ghats of India. The isolate CLB38 was then identified as Emericella variecolor by its characteristic stellate ascospores culture morphology and molecular analysis of ITS nuclear rDNA and intervening 5.8S rRNA gene sequence. ITS2 RNA secondary structure modeling clearly distinguished fungal endosymbiont E. variecolor CLB38 with other lifestyles in the same monophyletic clade. Ethyl acetate fraction of CLB38 explored a broad spectrum of antimicrobial activity against multidrug resistant pathogens. Biosynthetic PKS type-I gene and chromatographic approach afford two polyketide antimicrobial compounds which identified as evariquinone and isoindolones derivative emerimidine A. MIC of purified compounds against test microorganisms ranged between 3.12 μg/ml and 12.5 μg/ml. This research highlights the utility of E. variecolor CLB38 as an anticipate source for anti-infective polyketide metabolites evariquinone and emerimidine A to combat multidrug resistant microorganisms. Here we demonstrates a chemogenomics strategy via the feasibility of PKS type-I gene and chromatographic approach as a proficient method for the rapid prediction and discovery of new polyketides compounds from fungal endosymbionts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Meiosis produces haploid gametes through a succession of chromosomal events, including pairing, synapsis, and recombination. Mechanisms that orchestrate these events remain poorly understood. We found that the SUMO (small ubiquitin-like modifier)–modification and ubiquitin-proteasome systems regulate the major events of meiotic prophase in mouse. Interdependent localization of SUMO, ubiquitin, and proteasomes along chromosome axes was mediated largely by RNF212 and HEI10, two E3 ligases that are also essential for crossover recombination. RNF212-dependent SUMO conjugation effected a checkpointlike process that stalls recombination by rendering the turnover of a subset of recombination factors dependent on HEI10-mediated ubiquitylation. We propose that SUMO conjugation establishes a precondition for designating crossover sites via selective protein stabilization. Thus, meiotic chromosome axes are hubs for regulated proteolysis via SUMO-dependent control of the ubiquitin-proteasome system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We have achieved a simple, facile and three-component synthesis of C8 and C9 alkyl/aryl C7-hydroxydibenzopyrans-6-ones involving C3-acyl coumarins, selective active methylene compounds and some methyl ketones (reagent/solvent) under basic (K 2 CO 3) conditions. Overall, our method worked by benzannulation of the existing coumarins. In this work, we used the 2-NB group (2-NB = 2-nitrobenzyl) as a surrogate for C7–OH to engineer the construction of the ring C of the 3-hydroxydibenzopyran-6-ones. Subsequently, the photolabile 2-NB was removed under neutral conditions to reveal the C3–OH. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

4 H-Chromene and 1,4-naphthoquinone systems are generally considered to be medicinally privileged scaffolds. We have designed novel conjugates that incorporated both these scaffolds, as such conjugates exhibit unique biological properties reflecting those due to individual units and collective presence. In this work, we have achieved facile, efficient, and high yielding synthesis of 19 such conjugates from readily available 2-alkylamino-4-methylsulfanyl-3-nitro-4 H-chromenes and 2-hydroxynaphthalene-1,4-dione. Highly polar nitroketene- O, N-acetal unit present in the conjugates is designed to prevent crossing blood brain barrier. We have conducted structure activity relationship (SAR) studies based on initial antimicrobial screening of a set of ten conjugates against three Gram positive bacteria [ Bacillus Subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA), Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)], one Gram negative bacteria ( Escherichia coli), and two fungi ( Aspergillus niger, Candida albicans). The SAR studies revealed that the conjugates with halogens at C(6) and C(8) positions of the 4 H-chromene ring having C(2)NMe group display impressive activity, almost equal to that of standard drugs. None of the conjugates, however, showed antimalarial activity, although they possess 2-hydroxy-1,4-naphthoquinone unit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We have achieved a facile and convenient synthesis of a variety of 3,5-dioxopentanoates (3,5-diketo esters) and 3-amino-5-oxopent-3-enoates by a zinc-mediated condensation of readily available 3-oxopropanenitriles (α-cyano ketones) with ethyl bromoacetate. The reaction is a variation on the classical Blaise reaction, tuned to the synthesis of trifunctional compounds having 3,5-diketo ester or 3-enamino 5-keto ester functional groups. Our studies revealed that the Blaise reaction on the nitrile occurs in preference to the Reformatsky reaction on the neighboring ketone when the two functional groups are in a geminal relationship, as found in α-cyano ketones, possibly due to zinc complexation leading to increased electrophilicity of the nitrile. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Activated carbons prepared from waste rubber tires (RTAC) are used as practical adsorbents for the speedy evacuation and quick adsorption of lead ions from the wastewater effluents. Batch studies were done to evaluate the performance of RTAC for the adsorption of Pb+2 from aqueous solutions at various process parameters of pH (2-5), metal ion concentration (100 - 200 mg/L), the mass of the adsorbent (0.025 - 0.1 g), average particle size (85 - 200 Mesh) and solution temperature (308 - 323 K) at a maximum equilibrium agitation time of 60 minutes in an orbital shaker at 200 RPM. Taking into account exploratory results, Maximum evacuation of lead onto RTAC as adsorbent by 97.55 %. Optimized the adsorption efficiency using Central Composite Design (CCD) at pH = 4.98, Initial concentration 140.01 mg/L, the mass of the adsorbent is 0.12 grams and temperature of the metal solution is 314.46. Experimentation led above optimum conditions, the value of 3.64 % deviation is obtained with proposed value. Adsorption isothermal data were easily interpreted by Langmuir, Freundlich, Redlich-Peterson and Dubinin-Radushkevich (D-R), a Langmuir model with maximum adsorption capacity of 125 mg/g of lead ions on RTAC and kinetic data were appropriately equipped with the pseudo-second-order kinetic model. Consequences of thermodynamic investigations, properties of ΔH°, ΔG° and ΔS° are -63.976 KJ/mole, -5.787 KJ/mole and -0.196 KJ/mole.K, demonstrates the adsorption process is exothermic nature, feasible and spontaneous at lower temperature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We have achieved a facile copper(II) bromide–catalyzed synthesis of 2,3,4-trisubtitued pyrrole incorporated into unsymmetrical triarylmethanes through direct replacement of hydroxyl group in the pyrrolyl phenyl methanol with electron-rich aromatic and heteroaromatic compounds. The newly developed method has been applied to a facile synthesis of a C2 symmetric bis-triarylmethane in which the two triarylmethanes were bridged through piperzine. The copper(II) bromide catalysis led to C-C bond formation at the C(5) position when the reacting partner was imidazole. In contrast, C-N bond formation took place with benzimdazole or 2-methylbenzimidazole. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Facile and efficient synthesis of N -alkyl-2,6-diphenylpiperidines (NADPPs) was achieved by reductive amination cyclization (RAC) reaction on 1,5-diketones using alkylammonium formate. The reaction is a useful extension of classical Leuckart reductive amination. The RAC reaction is convenient and product isolation is simple when conducted under microwave (MW) irradiation in polyethylene glycol-200 (PEG-200) medium. The N(1) alkyl groups in NADPPs prefer equatorial position in both solid and liquid states possibly due to favorable CH–π-interactions to evade unfavorable 1,3-diaxial interactions. Incisive analysis of 1 H NMR spectra of NADPPs showed that anisotropic effects of C(2) and C(6) phenyl rings are maximum on C(3)H of the alkyl chain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Voight reaction is for the transformation of secondary α-hydroxy ketones into corresponding α-amino ketones. Although discovered as early as 1886, it has not enjoyed wide popularity in organic synthesis, as it is applicable to only secondary α-hydroxy ketones. In terms of extending the applications of the reaction, we have shown that the reaction takes place on tert -α-hydroxy ketones also, particularly when present on rigid planar molecular frameworks like phenanthrene, pyrene and acenaphthylene. The reaction is not a simple substitution of the hydroxy group with amines, but goes through imine formation followed by 1,2-C migration. The reaction provides good opportunity for the synthesis of optically active α-amino ketones. We have achieved facile synthesis of some chromatographically separable and optically active tert -α-amino ketones by employing S -(−) or R -(+)-α-methylbenzylamines in the Voight amination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]