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This study reports valuable information regarding the presence and concentration of a series of photoactive β‐carboline (βCs) alkaloids (norharmane, harmane, harmine, harmol, harmaline, and harmalol) and their distribution across the floral age and organs of Passiflora caerulea. UHPLC–MS/MS data reported herein reveal that the βCs' content ranged from 1 to 110 μg kg−1, depending on the floral organ and age. In certain physiologically relevant organs, such as anthers, βCs' content was one order of magnitude higher than in other organs, suggesting a special role for βCs in this specific organ. βCs' content also varied in a structure‐dependent manner. Alkaloids bearing a hydroxyl group at position C(7) of the main βC ring were present at concentrations one order of magnitude higher than other βC derivatives investigated. UV–visible and fluorescence spectroscopy of the flower extracts provided complementary information regarding other biologically relevant groups of chromophores (phenolic/indolic derivatives, flavonoids/carotenes, and chlorophylls). Since flowers are constantly exposed to solar radiation, the presence of photoactive βCs in floral organs may have several (photo)biological implications that are further discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

This study presents an integrated investigation of the Upper Triassic Potrerillos – Cacheuta lacustrine source rock in the Cuyo Basin of western Argentina. Data came from palynofacies analyses, organic petrography, Rock‐Eval pyrolysis and mineralogical studies based on X‐ray diffraction analyses. An 80 m thick outcrop section was studied and is interpreted to represent the transition from shallow‐lacustrine sediments influenced by fluvial discharges (uppermost Potrerillos Formation) to the deposits of a deep, permanent lake (Cacheuta Formation). Three palynofacies were defined. Palynofacies I is characterized by shallowing‐upward cycles with abundant woody material, and was deposited under an oxic, disturbed water column. Palynofacies II and III occur in laminated shales rich in amorphous organic matter (AOM) and freshwater algal material (Botryococcus) respectively, which were deposited under oxygen‐depleted conditions. In general, the detrital material present suggests an input derived from fluvial discharges; however, interbedded tuffs altered to analcime and smectite suggest the transformation of vitric material in pyroclastic ash under saline to alkaline water conditions. Kerogen Types II/III and III with high total organic carbon values indicate a moderate oil‐ and gas‐prone source rock whose thermal maturity varies from immature to the early oil window (Tmax: 430‐438 °C; vitrinite reflectance: 0.59‐0.67 % VRo; and thermal alteration index: 2‐2+). This study demonstrates the importance of palynofacies analyses for the interpretation of depositional changes and associated controls in lacustrine shale successions. When integrated with data from organic geochemistry, palynofacies analysis is an important tool in the evaluation of a source rock's thermal maturity and hydrocarbon generation potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Here, we provide mechanistic insight to the photocleavage of a compound in the folate family, namely pteroic acid. A bis‐decyl chain derivative of pteroic acid was synthesized, structurally characterized and photochemically investigated. We showed that, like folic acid, pteroic acid and the decylated derivative undergo a photocleavage reaction in the presence of H2O, while no reaction was observed in methanol solution. Furthermore, density functional theory calculations were carried out to predict relative stabilities of hypothetical mono‐, bis‐ and tris‐decylated pteroic acid derivatives to help rationalize the regioselectivity of the bis‐decyl pteroic acid product. Additionally, the lipophilicity of the bis‐decyl pteroic acid appears to confer a hydrophobic property enabling an interaction with biomembranes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Introduction/Aims: In traumatic nerve lesions (TNLs), motor unit potentials (MUPs) may be difficult to detect in early injury. Ultrasound‐guided electromyography (US‐EMG) can aid in identifying areas of muscle activation, but its sensitivity can be improved. In this study we compare the sensitivity of US‐EMG alone with US‐EMG after peripheral nerve stimulation (NC‐US‐EMG) to better identify active muscle regions. Methods: In this prospective study, 32 patients with severe TNLs were evaluated with standard EMG (ST‐EMG), US‐EMG, and NC‐US‐EMG at baseline (T0), after 2 to 3 months (T1), and after 5 to 6 months (T2). Results: NC‐US‐EMG was more sensitive in detecting MUPs compared with US‐EMG and ST‐EMG at T0 (19 patients vs 14 and 5 patients, respectively). In addition, both US‐guided techniques were more sensitive than ST‐EMG in detecting MUPs (ST‐EMG vs US‐EMG: P =.014; ST‐EMG vs NC‐US‐EMG: P =.003). At T1, ST‐EMG remained less sensitive NC‐US‐EMG (P =.019). No significant differences were observed among the three techniques at T2. Discussion: In the evaluation of severe TNLs, the combination of peripheral nerve stimulation and US increases the sensitivity of EMG for MUP detection at baseline and 2 to 3 months postinjury. See Editorial on pages 189‐190 in this issue [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

This article, titled "EP12.12: Agreement between two different devices for maternal hemodynamic evaluation," examines the agreement between two devices used for measuring maternal hemodynamics. The study included 172 patients, including healthy controls and those with small for gestational age fetuses and fetal growth restriction. The results showed poor correlation between the measurements from the two devices, except for heart rate. The authors emphasize the need for standardization when comparing data from different devices. [Extracted from the article] more...

In this work, two Bacillus strains isolated from honey (Bacillus subtilis subsp. subtilis C4; access code HQ828992) and from a waste of an artisanal tannery (Bacillus amyloliquefaciens B31; access code KP893752) were evaluated in order to determine their antibacterial activity against five enteropathogenic Escherichia coli strains. The number of viable cultivable cells of the different strains of E. coli analyzed was determined by plate count. The crude cell‐free supernatants of both Bacillus strains exerted anti‐E. coli activities, whereas only the lipopeptide fraction of B31 had significant E. coli inhibition. The lipopeptides produced by the Bacillus were analyzed using matrix‐assisted laser desorption–ionization mass spectrometry (MALDI MS). The analysis was conducted combining the profiles (fingerprints) of the lipopeptides mixture and the individual lipopeptide fragmentation (tandem mass spectrometry [MS/MS] mode), both obtained from the same lipopeptides mixture sample, for higher output. Data obtained from C4 and B31 revealed that surfactin homologues were the most abundant lipopeptides produced by both strains studied. Additionally, kurstakin, iturin, and fengycin homologues were detected. Using the MS/MS mode, it was demonstrated that isobar compounds belonging to different families were produced by each Bacillus strain (e.g., C‐16 bacillomycin D was detected in B31 samples, meanwhile C‐15 iturin C was detected in C4). MS/MS analysis contributed with relevant information about the type of lipopeptides synthesized by Bacillus strains studied in this work. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

The Triassic Cuyo rift Basin is one of the renowned petroleum systems in South America that records distinctive alluvial, lacustrine and fluvial settings with volcanic input. The present study focuses on the clay mineral assemblages that represent the syn‐rift to post‐rift fills. Four clay mineral assemblages are defined based on X‐ray diffraction, optical and electron microscopy analyses. The illite/mica‐dominated assemblage is documented in the syn‐rift I (Cerro de las Cabras Formation). Such mineral phases are inherited and derived from the erosion of pre‐rift units, suggesting that physical weathering associated with a warm and semi‐arid climate played a leading role in their occurrence. Authigenic smectite clays are diagnostic in organic‐lean mudstones of the syn‐rift II (lower Potrerillos Formation) which point to alteration of pyroclastic material under a warm and semi‐arid to humid climate. A warm and humid climate prevailed during the deposition of lacustrine hydrocarbon source rocks (upper Potrerillos and Cacheuta formations). Organic‐rich mudstones show the illite/mica–kaolinite–smectite assemblage in conjunction with amorphous organic matter and restricted terrigenous elements. Diagenetic kaolinite booklets and bipyramidal quartz are attributed to the acidification of pore‐water related to kerogen transformation during burial diagenesis. Vitrinite reflectance values (ca 0.63%) confirm that organic‐rich sediments reached the earliest oil window; however, smectite is devoid of illite layers throughout the Triassic succession, probably related to the absence of potassium in the system and the high crystallinity of the smectite, which delayed the transformation of smectite into mixed layers illite–smectite. Red mudstones of the post‐rift II (the fluvial‐lacustrine Rio Blanco Formation) show the kaolinite‐dominated assemblage where the authigenic kaolinite is interpreted to be derived from the alteration of volcaniclastic detritus and indicative of warm climate with markedly wet periods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Aim: The aim of the study was to evaluate the association between SARS‐CoV‐2 infection and serum hepatic biomarker levels among women with obstetric cholestasis. Methods: In this prospective study, we recruited all pregnant women admitted in our hospital with obstetric cholestasis. Among those with a concurrent SARS‐CoV‐2 infection, we evaluated the following serum hepatic biomarkers: aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and biliar acids (BA). Results: Among the 88 women enrolled in the study, 20 presented with a SARS‐CoV‐2 infection while 68 were negative. SARS‐CoV‐2 infected women were younger (mean age 30.5 ± 5.7 vs. 34.3 ± 5.4; p < 0.01) and in a greater percentage of non‐Caucasian ethnicity when compared to noninfected women (60.0% vs. 17.6%; p < 0.01). Regarding levels of hepatic biomarkers, they showed higher levels of AST (111.5 ± 134.1 vs. 37.3 ± 43.4 UI/L; p = 0.02), ALT (132.2 ± 115.7 vs. 50.5 ± 73.173.1 UI/L; p < 0.01), and BA (41.4 ± 46.8 vs. 18.4 ± 13.4 μmol/L; p = 0.04) compared to noninfected patients. No significant differences in maternal or fetal outcomes were found between infected and noninfected women. Conclusion: SARS‐CoV‐2 infection was associated with higher levels of liver enzymes in patients with obstetric cholestasis. This could be the result of a possible hepatic involvement in patients with SARS‐CoV‐2 infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Summary: Severe COVID‐19 is associated with a systemic inflammatory response and progressive CD4+ T‐cell lymphopenia and dysfunction. We evaluated whether platelets might contribute to CD4+ T‐cell dysfunction in COVID‐19. We observed a high frequency of CD4+ T cell–platelet aggregates in COVID‐19 inpatients that inversely correlated with lymphocyte counts. Platelets from COVID‐19 inpatients but not from healthy donors (HD) inhibited the upregulation of CD25 expression and tumour necrosis factor (TNF)‐α production by CD4+ T cells. In addition, interferon (IFN)‐γ production was increased by platelets from HD but not from COVID‐19 inpatients. A high expression of PD‐L1 was found in platelets from COVID‐19 patients to be inversely correlated with IFN‐γ production by activated CD4+ T cells cocultured with platelets. We also found that a PD‐L1‐blocking antibody significantly restored platelets' ability to stimulate IFN‐γ production by CD4+ T cells. Our study suggests that platelets might contribute to disease progression in COVID‐19 not only by promoting thrombotic and inflammatory events, but also by affecting CD4+ T cells functionality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

This article, published in the journal Ultrasound in Obstetrics & Gynecology, examines the association between adverse neonatal outcomes and maternal hemodynamics and biomarkers in small for gestational age (SGA) and fetal growth restriction (FGR). The study included pregnant individuals with a singleton non-anomalous SGA fetus between 32 and 36+6 weeks gestational age. The researchers found that estimated fetal weight (EFW) at inclusion, stroke volume, and sFlt-1 (a biomarker) were significantly associated with adverse neonatal outcomes. The addition of maternal biomarkers and hemodynamic variables improved the prediction of adverse neonatal outcomes. Overall, EFW was the strongest predictor of adverse neonatal outcomes in SGA and FGR pregnancies. [Extracted from the article] more...

Introduction: We investigated association between sociodemographic characteristics and COVID‐19 disease among pregnant women admitted to our unit, the largest high‐risk maternity unit in the Milan metropolitan area. Methods: Between March 1, 2020 and April 30, 2020, 896 pregnant women were admitted to our Institution and tested for COVID‐19. We collected information regarding their sociodemographic characteristics. Additional information on geographical area of residence, number of family members, number of family members tested positive for COVID‐19, and clinical data was collected for women tested positive for COVID‐19. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for the risk of developing COVID‐19 according to sociodemographic characteristics were estimated by unconditional logistic regression models. Results: Among the 896 women enrolled, 50 resulted positive for COVID‐19. Pregnant women aged ≥35 years had a significantly lower risk of developing the infection (crude OR = 0.29; 95% CI:0.16–0.55). Conversely, foreign women (crude OR = 3.32; 95% CI:1.89–5.81), unemployed women (crude OR = 3.09; 95% CI: 1.77–5.40), and women with an unemployed partner (crude OR = 3.16; 95% CI: 1.48–6.79) showed a significantly higher risk of infection. Ethnicity was positively associated with the risk of developing COVID‐19 (mutually adjusted OR = 2.15; 95% CI:1.12–4.11) in the multivariate analysis. Foreign women with COVID‐19 were more likely to have a lower education level (p < 0.01), to be unemployed (p < 0.01), and to live in larger families (p < 0.01) compared to Italian pregnant women. Conclusions: The socioeconomic conditions described are characteristic of immigration patterns in our metropolitan area. These factors may increase the risk of viral transmission, reducing the effectiveness of lockdown and social distancing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Cinnamic acid derivatives, particularly α‐cyano‐4‐hydroxycinnamic acid (E‐α‐cyano‐4‐hydroxycinnamic acid or (E)‐2‐cyano‐3‐(4‐hydroxyphenyl)prop‐2‐enoate; CHCA), have been extensively used especially for protein and peptide analysis. Together with the introduction of ionic liquid MALDI matrix (ILM) started the study of applications of IL prepared with CHCA and a counter organic base (ie, aliphatic amines) in which CHCA moiety is the chromophore responsible of UV‐laser absorption. Despite the extensive studies of norharmane (9H‐pyrido[3,4‐b]indole; nHo) applications as matrix and its peculiar basic properties in the ground and electronic excited state, nHo containing ILM was never tested in MALDI‐MS experiments. This pyrido‐indole compound was introduced as MALDI matrix 22 years ago for different applications including low molecular weight (LMW) carbohydrates (neutral, acidic, and basic carbohydrates). These facts encouraged us to use it as a base, for the first time, for ILM preparation. As a rational design of new IL MALDI matrices, E‐α‐cyanocinnamic acid.nHo and E‐cinnamic acid.nHo were prepared and their properties as matrices studied. Their performance was compared with that of (a) the corresponding IL prepared with butylamine as basic component, (b) the corresponding crystalline E‐α‐cyanocinnamic and E‐cinnamic acid, and (c) the classical crystalline matrices (2,5‐dihydroxybenzoic acid, DHB; nHo) used in the analysis of neutral/sulfated carbohydrates. The IL DHB.nHo was tested, too. Herein, we demonstrate the outstanding performance for the IL CHCA.nHo for LMW carbohydrate in positive and negative ion mode (linear and reflectron modes). Sulfated oligosaccharides were detected in negative ion mode, and although the dissociation of sulfate groups was not completely suppressed the relative intensity (RI) of [M − Na]− peak was quite high. Additionally, to better understand the quite different performance of each IL tested as matrix, the physical and morphological properties in solid state were studied (optical image; MS image). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Yerba mate (YM) is massively produced and consumed as an infusion in South America and spreading all over the world. This product is obtained from dried leaves of Ilex paraguariensis Saint Hilaire, mixed with fragments of dried branches (sticks). For its commercialization, YM must have a minimum percentage of leaves because its presence determines YM quality and price. Till today, a mechanical methodology to determine the relative amount of components (sticks, leaves, and powder) is used. There is not any modern analytical method that provides information for quick characterization of the YM components. Typical saponin fingerprints for leaves and sticks were found by using ultraviolet matrix‐assisted laser desorption ionization and ultraviolet laser desorption ionization mass spectrometry. Then, their possible application as useful tools for quick characterization of components of commercial YM (leaves and sticks) is presented. Furthermore, fingerprints obtained from authentic samples of Ilex paraguariensis and Ilex dumosa are also included and discussed. Each Ilex show typical saponin fingerprints for leaves and sticks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

The development of an acidic tissue environment is a hallmark of a variety of inflammatory processes and solid tumors. However, little attention has been paid so far to analyze the influence exerted by extracellular pH on the immune response. Tissue acidosis (pH 6.0 to 7.0) is usually associated with the course of infectious processes in peripheral tissues. Moreover, it represents a prominent feature of solid tumors. In fact, values of pH ranging from 5.7 to 7.0 are usually found in a number of solid tumors such as breast cancer, brain tumors, sarcomas, malignant melanoma, squamous cell carcinomas, and adenocarcinomas. Both the innate and adaptive arms of the immune response appear to be finely regulated by extracellular acidosis in the range of pH values found at inflammatory sites and tumors. Low pH has been shown to delay neutrophil apoptosis, promoting their differentiation into a proangiogenic profile. Acting on monocytes and macrophages, it induces the activation of the inflammasome and the production of IL-1β, while the exposure of conventional dendritic cells to low pH promotes the acquisition of a mature phenotype. Overall, these observations suggest that high concentrations of protons could be recognized by innate immune cells as a danger-associated molecular pattern (DAMP). On the other hand, by acting on T lymphocytes, low pH has been shown to suppress the cytotoxic response mediated by CD8+ T cells as well as the production of IFN-γ by TH1 cells. Interestingly, modulation of tumor microenvironment acidity has been shown to be able not only to reverse anergy in human and mouse tumor-infiltrating T lymphocytes but also to improve the antitumor immune response induced by checkpoint inhibitors. Here, we provide an integrated view of the influence exerted by low pH on immune cells and discuss its implications in the immune response against infectious agents and tumor cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Recombinant human growth hormone (rhGH) is used for the treatment of several pathologies, most of them related to growth. Although different expression systems can be used for its production, the milk from transgenic cows is one of the most interesting due to the high rhGH level achieved (5 g/L). We have designed and synthesized short peptides (9 or 10 amino acid long) using Fmoc chemistry and studied their ability to purify rhGH from milk once immobilized on an agarose support. Using spiked milk with the hormone as a sample, rhGH was purified with 88% yield and 92% purity in a single step with a fold purification of 4.5. © 2018 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 34:999–1005, 2018 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

In many amphibians, the granular glands can be grouped in special regions forming macroglands. This is the case of toads, characterized by the presence of a pair of parotoid macroglands, strategically located to give protection by poison release in case of attacks. The product secreted consists of a wide variety of chemical compounds including proteins, peptides, biogenic amines, toxic steroidal bufadienolides, and various alkaloids, depending on the species. In this work, using Rhinella arenarum, we have performed, for the first time, the matrix assisted-ultraviolet laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry and tandem mass spectrometry characterization of the components of the secretion used as crude material, just suspended in MeOH (or MeCN). The crude sample as a whole (whole suspension) was spotted on the matrix assisted-ultraviolet laser desorption plate for analysis. Electrospray ionization-Orbitrap was used for cross-checking experiments. The pattern of signals obtained at m/z ranges 600 to 800 and 1200 to 1600 could be assigned as the argininyl bufadienolide esters fingerprint characteristic of female and male. Variation patterns for gender (female, male), age (non-reproductive, reproductive), and season (non-reproductive, reproductive) are described. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Objectives: The value of salivary gland scintigraphy in the diagnosis of Sjögren's syndrome remains controversial. The primary aim of this study was to estimate the diagnostic accuracy of salivary gland scintigraphy in the diagnosis of Sjögren's syndrome among 237 patients with xerostomia. Methods: We retrospectively compared eight scintigraphy parameters between 106 Sjögren patients and 131 non‐Sjögren patients. Results: Seven of the eight parameters were significantly decreased in patients with Sjögren; however, their diagnostic accuracy was low, with areas under the curves (AUCs) ranging from 0.58 (95% CI 0.50‐0.65) to 0.63 (95% CI: 0.55‐0.70). The prestimulatory oral activity index allowed discrimination between primary and secondary Sjögren's syndrome (AUC 0.73, 95% CI: 0.62‐0.84), and the secretion velocity for parotid glands allowed discrimination between patients with Sjögren and burning mouth syndrome (AUC 0.71, 95% CI 0.59‐0.82). Conclusion: The accuracy of scintigraphy parameters for the diagnosis of Sjögren's syndrome among patients with xerostomia was low; however, some functional indices appeared to assist discrimination between primary and secondary SS patients and between subgroups of patients with different causes of xerostomia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Abstract: In the present work, we have synthesized and fully characterized the photophysical and photochemical properties of a selected group of N‐methyl‐β‐carboline derivatives (9‐methyl‐β‐carbolines and iodine salts of 2‐methyl‐ and 2,9‐dimethyl‐β‐carbolinium) in aqueous solutions, in the pH range 4.0–14.5. Moreover, despite the quite extensive studies reported in the literature regarding the overall photophysical behavior of N‐unsubstituted βCs, this work constitutes the first full and unambiguous characterization of anionic species of N‐unsubstituted βCs (norharmane, harmane and harmine), present in aqueous solution under highly alkaline conditions (pH > 13.0). Acid dissociation constants (Ka), thermal stabilities, room temperature UV–visible absorption and fluorescence emission and excitation spectra, fluorescence quantum yields (ФF) and fluorescence lifetimes (τF), as well as quantum yields of singlet oxygen production (ФΔ) have been measured for all the studied compounds. Furthermore, for the first time to our knowledge, chemometric techniques (MCR‐ALS and PARAFAC) were applied on these systems, providing relevant information about the equilibria and species involved. The impact of all the foregoing observations on the biological role, as well as the potential biotechnological applications of these compounds, is discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Although peptides are used as affinity chromatography ligands, they could be digested by proteases. Usually, peptide stability is evaluated in solution, which differs from the resin-bounded peptide behavior. Furthermore, the study of the degradation products requires purification steps before analysis. Here, we describe an easy method to assess immobilized peptide stability. Sample peptides were synthesized on hydroxymethylbenzamide-ChemMatrix resin. Peptidyl-resin beads were then incubated with solutions containing proteases. Peptides were detached from the solid support with ammonia vapor and analyzed by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization and electrospray ionization mass spectrometry, allowing the detection of the whole peptides as well as their C-terminal degradation products. The method allowed a fast evaluation of peptide ligand stability in solid phase towards proteases that may be present in the crude sample before their use as ligands in affinity chromatography. Copyright © 2017 European Peptide Society and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Introduction: Nerve ultrasound has been used increasingly in neurophysiology laboratories, but data on Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) are still limited, and no follow-up studies are available. Case Report: An 8-year-old boy was admitted with severe demyelinating GBS. Serial neurophysiological evaluations were performed initially and in follow-up. Ultrasound studies showed diffuse and heterogeneous nerve swelling and focal enlargement of single fascicles inside the nerve. Together with clinical and electrophysiological improvement, progressive normalization of ultrasound changes was seen. Conclusions: Ultrasound demonstrated structural nerve abnormalities in GBS. These changes normalized as the patient improved clinically and electrophysiologically. Further studies are needed to elucidate the diagnostic and prognostic value of ultrasound in GBS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Objective Rheumatoid factor (RF) is a well-established diagnostic and prognostic biomarker in rheumatoid arthritis (RA). However, ∼20% of RA patients are negative for this anti-IgG antibody. To date, only variation at the HLA-DRB1 gene has been associated with the presence of RF. This study was undertaken to identify additional genetic variants associated with RF positivity. Methods A genome-wide association study (GWAS) for RF positivity was performed using an Illumina Quad610 genotyping platform. A total of 937 RF-positive and 323 RF-negative RA patients were genotyped for >550,000 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). Association testing was performed using an allelic chi-square test implemented in Plink software. An independent cohort of 472 RF-positive and 190 RF-negative RA patients was used to validate the most significant findings. Results In the discovery stage, a SNP in the IRX1 locus on chromosome 5p15.3 (SNP rs1502644) showed a genome-wide significant association with RF positivity ( P = 4.13 × 10−8, odds ratio [OR] 0.37 [95% confidence interval (95% CI) 0.26-0.53]). In the validation stage, the association of IRX1 with RF was replicated in an independent group of RA patients ( P = 0.034, OR 0.58 [95% CI 0.35-0.97] and combined P = 1.14 × 10−8, OR 0.43 [95% CI 0.32-0.58]). Conclusion To our knowledge, this is the first GWAS of RF positivity in RA. Variation at the IRX1 locus on chromosome 5p15.3 is associated with the presence of RF. Our findings indicate that IRX1 and HLA-DRB1 are the strongest genetic factors for RF production in RA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Commercially harvested since ancient times, the highly valuable red coral Corallium rubrum (Linnaeus, 1758) is an octocoral endemic to the Mediterranean Sea and adjacent Eastern Atlantic Ocean, where it occurs on rocky bottoms over a wide bathymetric range. Current knowledge is restricted to its shallow populations (15-50 m depth), with comparably little attention given to the deeper populations (50-200 m) that are nowadays the main target of exploitation. In this study, red coral distribution and population structure were assessed in three historically exploited areas (Amalfi, Ischia Island and Elba Island) in the Tyrrhenian Sea (Western Mediterranean Sea) between 50 and 130 m depth by means of ROV during a cruise carried out in the summer of 2010. Red coral populations showed a maximum patch frequency of 0.20 ± 0.04 SD patches·m−1 and a density ranging between 28 and 204 colonies·m−2, with a fairly continuous bathymetric distribution. The highest red coral densities in the investigated areas were found on cliffs and boulders mainly exposed to the east, at the greatest depth, and characterized by medium percentage sediment cover. The study populations contained a high percentage (46% on average) of harvestable colonies (>7 mm basal diameter). Moreover, some colonies with fifth-order branches were also observed, highlighting the probable older age of some components of these populations. The Ischia population showed the highest colony occupancy, density and size, suggesting a better conservation status than the populations at the other study locations. These results indicate that deep dwelling red coral populations in non-stressed or less-harvested areas may diverge from the inverse size-density relationship previously observed in red coral populations with increasing depth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Introduction: Radial nerve lesions associated with humeral shaft fractures are the most common traumatic nerve lesions observed with long bone fractures. Secondary indirect posterior interosseous nerve (PIN) lesions can be associated with traumatic radial nerve palsy. The aim of this study was to identify cases of traumatic double-site radial nerve involvement through ultrasound (US).Methods: Patients with traumatic radial nerve lesions referred to our laboratory from January 2010 to January 2014 were evaluated.Results: Of the 35 patients, 18 had US evidence of a radial nerve lesion at the fracture site associated with secondary PIN involvement at the arcade of Frohse.Conclusions: Multiple-site nerve lesions are difficult to demonstrate through electrodiagnostic tests. In our case series, half of the patients with traumatic radial nerve damage had US evidence of PIN injury. Prospective studies with follow-up are needed to determine the clinical and prognostic relevance of this finding and the best therapeutic approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

The probe electrospray ionization (PESI) is an ESI-based ionization technique that generates electrospray from the tip of a solid metal needle. In the present work, we describe the PESI mass spectra obtained by in situ measurement of soybeans and several nuts (peanuts, walnuts, cashew nuts, macadamia nuts and almonds) using different solid needles as sampling probes. It was found that PESI-MS is a valuable approach for in situ lipid analysis of these seeds. The phospholipid and triacylglycerol PESI spectra of different nuts and soybean were compared by principal component analysis (PCA). PCA shows significant differences among the data of each family of seeds. Methanolic extracts of nuts and soybean were exposed to air and sunlight for several days. PESI mass spectra were recorded before and after the treatment. Along the aging of the oil (rancidification), the formation of oxidated species with variable number of hydroperoxide groups could be observed in the PESI spectra. The relative intensity of oxidated triacylglycerols signals increased with days of exposition. Monitoring sensitivity of PESI-MS was high. This method provides a fast, simple and sensitive technique for the analysis (detection and characterization) of lipids in seed tissue and degree of oxidation of the oil samples. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Longitudinal assessment of uterine artery Doppler studies in patients with APS under treatment as compared to normal controls. Results 43 out of 75 APS patients had a normal outcome with adequate compliance to treatment and were included in the analysis; an associated SLE was present in 11 of these patients. [Extracted from the article] more...

Short cyclic peptides have a great interest in therapeutic, diagnostic and affinity chromatography applications. The screening of 'one-bead-one-peptide' combinatorial libraries combined with mass spectrometry (MS) is an excellent tool to find peptides with affinity for any target protein. The fragmentation patterns of cyclic peptides are quite more complex than those of their linear counterparts, and the elucidation of the resulting tandem mass spectra is rather more difficult. Here, we propose a simple protocol for combinatorial cyclic libraries synthesis and ring opening before MS analysis. In this strategy, 4-hydroxymethylbenzoic acid, which forms a benzyl ester with the first amino acid, was used as the linker. A glycolamidic ester group was incorporated after the combinatorial positions by adding glycolic acid. The library synthesis protocol consisted in the following: (i) incorporation of Fmoc-Asp[2-phenylisopropyl (OPp)]-OH to Ala-Gly-oxymethylbenzamide-ChemMatrix, (ii) synthesis of the combinatorial library, (iii) assembly of a glycolic acid, (iv) couple of an Ala residue in the N-terminal, (v) removal of OPp, (vi) peptide cyclisation through side chain Asp and N-Ala amino terminus and (vii) removal of side chain protecting groups. In order to simultaneously open the ring and release each peptide, benzyl and glycolamidic esters were cleaved with ammonia. Peptide sequences could be deduced from the tandem mass spectra of each single bead evaluated. The strategy herein proposed is suitable for the preparation of one-bead-one-cyclic depsipeptide libraries that can be easily open for its sequencing by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionisation MS. It employs techniques and reagents frequently used in a broad range of laboratories without special expertise in organic synthesis. Copyright © 2014 European Peptide Society and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Poly[ N-(2-hydroxyethyl)-β-propylamide] oligomer is synthesized using a simple enzymatic procedure involving Candida antarctica lipase B. This novel compound is obtained by a green and chemoselective method from economic reactants in good yield. The β-peptoid oligomer is characterized by spectroscopic methods showing low molecular weight and low dispersity. Two derivatives of the β-peptoid oligomer are prepared by acetylation and by grafting polycaprolactone by ring opening polymerization from the pendant hydroxyl groups. These products are blended with polycaprolactone to make films by solvent casting. The inclusion of the acyl derivatives of the β-peptoid to polycaprolactone affects the morphology of the film yielding microstructured and nanostructured patterns. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Bifid median nerve is an anatomic variation that occurs in about 18% of patients with symptoms suggestive of carpal tunnel syndrome and in about 15% of symptom-free subjects. Reversed palmaris longus is a rare anatomic muscular variation. The simultaneous presence of a bifid median nerve and a reversed palmaris longus has been very rarely described, usually during surgical exploration or in cadavers. We present two cases where ultrasound showed the presence of both abnormalities, allowing a correct diagnosis and influencing the treatment plan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

ABSTRACT Bifid median nerve is an anatomic variation that occurs in about 18% of patients with symptoms suggestive of carpal tunnel syndrome and in about 15% of symptom-free subjects. Reversed palmaris longus is a rare anatomic muscular variation. The simultaneous presence of a bifid median nerve and a reversed palmaris longus has been very rarely described, usually during surgical exploration or in cadavers. We present two cases where ultrasound showed the presence of both abnormalities, allowing a correct diagnosis and influencing the treatment plan. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound 42:371-374, 2014 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

2,4-, 2,5-, 2,6- and 3,5-dihydroxyacetophenone ( DHA) used as matrices in matrix-assisted ultraviolet laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry ( UV- MALDI- MS) were studied by steady-state and transient absorption spectroscopy, together with DFT calculations at the B3 LYP level of theory. All compounds have low fluorescence quantum yields, possibly due to an efficient excited-state intramolecular proton transfer ( ESIPT). Laser flash photolysis ( LFP) results showed that, only for 2,4-DHA, a phototautomer could be detected at λ = 400 nm. Their photochemical stability in solution at different wavelengths and conditions was analyzed by UV-Vis and 1H nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H- NMR), together with thin layer chromatography and ultraviolet laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry ( UV- LDI- MS). Only 3,5- DHA showed decomposition when irradiated, probably because phototautomerization is not possible. Thermal stability studies of these compounds in solid state were also conducted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Successful application of matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) MS started with the introduction of efficient matrices such as cinnamic acid derivatives (i.e. 3,5-dimethoxy-4-hydroxycinnamic acid, SA; α-cyano-4-hydroxycinnamic acid). Since the empirical founding of these matrices, other commercial available cinnamic acids with different nature and location of substituents at benzene ring were attempted. Rational design and synthesis of new cinnamic acids have been recently described too. Because the presence of a rigid double bond in its molecule structure, cinnamic acids can exist as two different geometric isomers, the E-form and Z-form. Commercial available cinnamic acids currently used as matrices are the geometric isomers trans or E ( E-cinnamic and trans-cinnamic acids). As a new rational design of MALDI matrices, Z-cinnamic acids were synthesized, and their properties as matrices were studied. Their performance was compared with that of the corresponding E-isomer and classical crystalline matrices (3,5-dihydroxybenzoic acid; norharmane) in the analysis of neutral/sulfated carbohydrates. Herein, we demonstrate the outstanding performance for Z-SA. Sulfated oligosaccharides were detected in negative ion mode, and the dissociation of sulfate groups was almost suppressed. Additionally, to better understand the quite different performance of each geometric isomer as matrix, the physical and morphological properties as well as the photochemical stability in solid state were studied. The influence of the E/ Z photoisomerization of the matrix during MALDI was evaluated. Finally, molecular modeling (density functional theory study) of the optimized geometry and stereochemistry of E-cinnamic and Z-cinnamic acids revealed some factors governing the analyte-matrix interaction. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

This article attempts to present straightforward and easy-to-understand guidelines for the determination of element distribution in compounds lacking X-ray scattering contrast because they have similar electron counts. Different sources of anomalous dispersion correction terms (especially Δ f′ values) are compared with respect to their suitability, reliability and quality. Values from databases are compared with Δ f values calculated from fluorescence spectra and those refined from single-crystal diffraction data, using both reference crystals without scattering contrast problems and crystals containing elements with similar electron counts. The number of data sets required to determine reliably the element distribution and the optimum wavelengths to be used are discussed. Joint multiple data set refinements are suitable for the refinement of multiply mixed occupancies of elements lacking scattering contrast. The most straightforward method of obtaining Δ f′ values depends on the complexity of the problem to be solved and the precision required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

A new water-soluble complex, Re(CO)3(pterin)(H2O), was synthesized and characterized by 1H NMR and FTIR spectroscopy, and by a combination of three mass spectrometry techniques: MALDI, probe electrospray ionisation (PESI), and ESI. Because, unlike most metal-pterin complexes, the ReI complex is quite soluble in water, appropriate single crystals could be obtained for structural X-ray analysis. We report here the first solid state molecular structure containing a pterin ligand coordinated to the Re(CO)3 core. This determination revealed that strong H bonds between the hydrogen atom of the 2-amino group and crystallization water molecules give rise to a polymeric arrangement of Re(CO)3(pterin)(H2O) complexes in the lattice. Protonation studies in aqueous solutions of the ReI complex showed two acid-base equilibriums with p Ka1 = 3.9 and p Ka2 = 8.8. p Ka1 was assigned to the protonation equilibrium at N3 of the pterin ligand in the complex and p Ka2 could be ascribed to the deprotonation of a coordinated water molecule. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Introduction: Nerve involvement in immune-related neuropathies is non-homogeneous, and therefore characterization of ultrasound (US) abnormalities is difficult. We developed two measures to quantify US abnormalities in immune-related neuropathies. Methods: Intranerve cross-sectional area (CSA) variability for each nerve was calculated as: maximal CSA/minimal CSA. Internerve CSA variability for each patient was calculated as: maximal intranerve CSA variability/minimal intranerve CSA variability. Six patients underwent US evaluation of the median, ulnar, and fibular nerves, and the abnormalities were scored with our newly developed measures. Results: The new measures were applicable to all nerves and patients. The highest degree of intra- and internerve CSA variability was observed in multifocal motor neuropathy, consistent with the asymmetric characteristics of this neuropathy. Conclusions: The application of intra- and internerve CSA variability measures allows us to quantify the heterogeneity of nerves and nerve segments and identify different US patterns in diverse immune-related neuropathies. Muscle Nerve, 2012 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Native potato starch was acetylated and characterized. The influence of this chemical modification on different properties of the starch was studied. The characterization included the molecular weight, thermal properties, crystallinity, amylose content, swelling behavior, and pasting and rheological properties. The chemical modification induced small changes in the crystallinity of the starch and a reduction in the gelatinization heat and in the range of temperatures at which it took place. The amylose content was determined for acetylated and native potato starches. The swelling of native granules was higher than the swelling of acetylated potato starch. Regarding pasting behavior, the native and acetylated starches responded in similar ways to changes in the temperature and glycerol content. Finally, the acetylated starch was less pseudoplastic than the native starch. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2011 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...