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Microbe-produced molecules (xenometabolites) found in foods or produced by gut microbiota are increasingly implicated in microbe-microbe and microbe-host communication. Xenolipids, in particular, are a class of metabolites for which the full catalog remains to be elaborated in mammalian systems. We and others have observed that cis-3,4-methylene-heptanoylcarnitine is a lipid derivative that is one of the most abundant medium-chain acylcarnitines in human blood, hypothesized to be a product of incomplete β-oxidation of one or more odd-chain long-chain cyclopropane fatty acids (CpFAs). We deduced two possible candidates, cis-11,12-methylene-pentadecanoic acid (cis-11,12-MPD) and cis-13,14-methylene-heptadecanoic acid (cis-13,14-MHD). Authentic standards were synthesized: cis-11-pentadecenoic acid and cis-13-heptadecenoic acid were generated (using Jones reagent) from cis-11-pentadecene-1-ol and cis-13-heptadecene-1-ol, respectively, and these were converted to CpFAs via a reaction involving diiodomethane. Using these standards in mass spectrometry analyses, we determined the presence/absence of cis-11,12-MPD and cis-13,14-MHD in archived piglet biospecimens. Both CpFAs were detected in rectal contents of sow and soy-fed piglets. Archived mass spectra were analyzed post hoc from a second independent study that used tissue-specific catheterization to monitor net metabolite flux in growing pigs. This confirmed the presence of both CpFAs in plasma and revealed a significant net uptake of the odd-chain CpFAs across the splanchnic tissue bed and liver. The results confirm that the novel xenolipids cis-11,12-MPD and cis-13,14-MHD can be components of the mammalian lipidome and are viable candidate precursors of cis-3,4-methylene-heptanoylcarnitine produced from partial β-oxidation in liver or other tissues.

Paritaprevir is an orally bioavailable, macrocyclic drug used for treating chronic Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. Its structures have been elusive to the public until recently when one of the crystal forms is solved by microcrystal electron diffraction (MicroED). In this work, the MicroED structures of two distinct polymorphic crystal forms of paritaprevir are reported from the same experiment. The different polymorphs show conformational changes in the macrocyclic core, as well as the cyclopropyl sulfonamide and methyl pyrazinamide substituents. Molecular docking shows that one of the conformations fits well into the active site pocket of the HCV non-structural 3/4A (NS3/4A) serine protease target, and can interact with the pocket and catalytic triad via hydrophobic interactions and hydrogen bonds. These results can provide further insight for optimization of the binding of acyl sulfonamide inhibitors to the HCV NS3/4A serine protease. In addition, this also demonstrates the opportunity to derive different polymorphs and distinct macrocycle conformations from the same experiments using MicroED.

Fused bicyclic cyclopropanes were converted by Lewis acid‐catalysis with thioureas to furo‐, pyrano, and pyrrololactams with yields of up to 99 % and high diastereoselectivity. The formation of the title compounds, representing a formal [4+1]‐cycloaddition to a donor‐acceptor substituted cyclopropane, follows a cascade reaction involving SN1‐type ring‐opening addition and cyclization. Thiourea, being a cost‐effective and odorless reagent, acts as an N,N‐bis‐nucleophile to generate bicyclic compounds containing an N‐substituted γ‐lactam moiety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The direct diastereo‐ and enantioselective Ru(II)‐ catalyzed cyclopropanation reaction of alkenes with ((2‐diazo‐1,1‐difluoroethyl)sulfinyl)benzene was described. The desired enantioenriched PhSO2CF2‐cyclopropanes were obtained in high yields with high diastereo‐ and enantioselectivities in the presence of a chiral ruthenium complex Ru(II)‐Pheox (17–94% yields, >20:1 d.r. and 83:17–98:2 e.r.). The robustness of the approach was showcased and This methodology gave access to chiral 1,2‐trans difluoro‐methylcyclopropanes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A BF3 ·OEt2-promoted facile synthesis of cyclic amidines (2-amino-1-pyrrolines) has been developed via the (3+2)-cycloaddition of cyanamides with donor-acceptor cyclopropanes (DACs). In addition to this, the protocol has been successfully extended to construct a dimerized amidine derivative and gram-scale synthesis with great efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amino acids (AAs) are modular building blocks which nature uses to synthesize both macromolecules, such as proteins, and small molecule natural products, such as alkaloids and non‐ribosomal peptides. While the 20 main proteinogenic AAs display relatively limited side chain diversity, a wide range of non‐canonical amino acids (ncAAs) exist that are not used by the ribosome for protein synthesis, but contain a broad array of structural features and functional groups. In this communication, we report the discovery of the biosynthetic pathway for a new ncAA, pazamine, which contains a cyclopropane ring formed in two steps. In the first step, a chlorine is added onto the C4 position of lysine by a radical halogenase, PazA. The cyclopropane ring is then formed in the next step by a pyridoxal‐5′‐phosphate‐dependent enzyme, PazB, via an SN2‐like attack at C4 to eliminate chloride. Genetic studies of this pathway in the native host, Pseudomonas azotoformans, show that pazamine potentially inhibits ethylene biosynthesis in growing plants based on alterations in the root phenotype of Arabidopsis thaliana seedlings. We further show that PazB can be utilized to make an alternative cyclobutane‐containing AA. These discoveries may lead to advances in biocatalytic production of specialty chemicals and agricultural biotechnology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Small, strained carbocyclic systems have fascinated organic chemists from both a theoretical and synthetic standpoint. These systems often challenge conventional wisdom when it comes to molecular structure and tactics for chemical construction. The cyclopropyl motif is one such ring system that remains at the forefront of method development in the modern era. With the advent of an array of non‐traditional building blocks, a range of new cyclopropanation processes using one‐ and two‐electron strategies have been developed that not only overcome the synthetic shortcomings of classical approaches but also provide entry into a wide range of new classes of cyclopropanes. This review discusses recent advances in this area with an emphasis on their mechanistic underpinnings and potential applications. Additionally, a concise overview of the properties of and traditional approaches to cyclopropanes is provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transition metal‐catalyzed carbene transfer reactions have a century‐old history in organic chemistry and are a primary method for the synthesis of cyclopropanes. Much of the work in this field has focused on the use of diazo compounds and related precursors, which can transfer a carbene fragment to a catalyst with concomitant loss of a stable byproduct. Despite the utility of this approach, there are persistent limitations in the scope of viable carbenes, most notably those lacking stabilizing substituents. By coupling carbene transfer chemistry with two‐electron redox cycles, it is possible to expand the available starting materials that can be used as carbene precursors. In this Minireview, we discuss emerging catalytic reductive cyclopropanation reactions using either gem‐dihaloalkanes or carbonyl compounds. This strategy is inspired by classic stoichiometric transformations, such as the Simmons–Smith cyclopropanation and the Clemmensen reduction, but instead entails the formation of a catalytically generated transition metal carbene or carbenoid. We also present recent efforts to generate carbenes directly from methylene (CR2H2) groups via a formal 1,1‐dehydrogenation. These reactions are currently restricted to substrates containing electron‐withdrawing substituents, which serve to facilitate deprotonation and subsequent oxidation of the anion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A formal atom transfer radical [3+2] annulation (ATRAn) reaction between different homoallyl radical precursors and 1,1‐diborylethene was developed. It provides a rapid access to polysubstituted cyclopentanes containing a gem‐diboronic ester moiety. The synthetic utility of theses uniquely functionalized 5‐membered rings is highlighted by their easy conversion to attractive borylated building blocks such as 1‐borylated bicyclo[3.1.0]hexanes. The ATRAn reaction was extended to homopropagylic radicals giving access to unique allylic gem‐diboronic esters that could be used in allylboration of aldehydes. Furthermore, this work highlights that 1,1‐diborylethene represents a synthetic equivalent to ketene, a so far elusive radical trap due to its daunting reactivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article discusses the electrocatalytic synthesis of 1,2-dioxolanes from tetrasubstituted donor-acceptor cyclopropanes. The use of electrochemical activation allows for an alternative cleavage mode of C(sp3)-C(sp3) bonds, resulting in the formation of 1,2-dioxolanes. The study explores the optimization and reaction scope of this system, demonstrating the synthesis of 3,3,5,5-tetrasubstituted dioxolanes from various cyclopropanes. The proposed mechanism for this reaction is supported by previous studies on the electrochemical activation of donor-acceptor cyclopropanes. [Extracted from the article]

Efficient cyclopropanation reactions of aryl or styrylacetonitriles with vinyl selenones under mild conditions were described. By this approach, synthetically challenging 1‐vinylcyclopropane‐1‐carbonitriles were accessible in good yields. This methodology features the advantage of operational simplicity, broad substrate scope, good functional group tolerance, transition‐metal‐free conditions, mild temperature, and a high level of regio‐ and diastereo‐control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The previously unknown cyclopropane spiro-fused with isoxazol-5-one ((1RS,3SR)-1-(4-methylbenzyl)-7-phenyl-5-oxa-6-azaspiro[2.4]hept-6-en-4-one) was synthesized from benzylideneisoxazol-5-one in 34% yield via double methylene transfer from diazomethane. The structure of the compound was established based on 1H, 13C, and 2D NMR spectroscopy and high-resolution mass spectrometry, and confirmed by X-ray diffraction analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In nature and synthetic chemistry, stereoselective [2 + 1] cyclopropanation is the most prevalent strategy for the synthesis of chiral cyclopropanes, a class of key pharmacophores in pharmaceuticals and bioactive natural products. One of the most extensively studied reactions in the organic chemists arsenal, stereoselective [2 + 1] cyclopropanation, largely relies on the use of stereodefined olefins, which can require elaborate laboratory synthesis or tedious separation to ensure high stereoselectivity. Here, we report engineered hemoproteins derived from a bacterial cytochrome P450 that catalyze the synthesis of chiral 1,2,3-polysubstituted cyclopropanes, regardless of the stereopurity of the olefin substrates used. Cytochrome P450BM3 variant P411-INC-5185 exclusively converts (Z)-enol acetates to enantio- and diastereoenriched cyclopropanes and in the model reaction delivers a leftover (E)-enol acetate with 98% stereopurity, using whole Escherichia coli cells. P411-INC-5185 was further engineered with a single mutation to enable the biotransformation of (E)-enol acetates to α-branched ketones with high levels of enantioselectivity while simultaneously catalyzing the cyclopropanation of (Z)-enol acetates with excellent activities and selectivities. We conducted docking studies and molecular dynamics simulations to understand how active-site residues distinguish between the substrate isomers and enable the enzyme to perform these distinct transformations with such high selectivities. Computational studies suggest the observed enantio- and diastereoselectivities are achieved through a stepwise pathway. These biotransformations streamline the synthesis of chiral 1,2,3-polysubstituted cyclopropanes from readily available mixtures of (Z/E)-olefins, adding a new dimension to classical cyclopropanation methods.

[Display omitted] A silver phosphine complex (XantPhos)AgBr proved to be a cheap and readily accessible catalyst for bromofluoro- cyclopropanation of electron-rich alkenes with CFBr 2 CO 2 Na. Ozonolysis followed by treatment with NaHSO 3 was shown to be an effective protocol to purify gem -bromofluoro- cyclopropanes from unreacted alkene precursors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biosynthesis is an environmentally benign and renewable approach that can be used to produce a broad range of natural and, in some cases, new-to-nature products. However, biology lacks many of the reactions that are available to synthetic chemists, resulting in a narrower scope of accessible products when using biosynthesis rather than synthetic chemistry. A prime example of such chemistry is carbene-transfer reactions1. Although it was recently shown that carbene-transfer reactions can be performed in a cell and used for biosynthesis2,3, carbene donors and unnatural cofactors needed to be added exogenously and transported into cells to effect the desired reactions, precluding cost-effective scale-up of the biosynthesis process with these reactions. Here we report the access to a diazo ester carbene precursor by cellular metabolism and a microbial platform for introducing unnatural carbene-transfer reactions into biosynthesis. The α-diazoester azaserine was produced by expressing a biosynthetic gene cluster in Streptomyces albus. The intracellularly produced azaserine was used as a carbene donor to cyclopropanate another intracellularly produced molecule-styrene. The reaction was catalysed by engineered P450 mutants containing a native cofactor with excellent diastereoselectivity and a moderate yield. Our study establishes a scalable, microbial platform for conducting intracellular abiological carbene-transfer reactions to functionalize a range of natural and new-to-nature products and expands the scope of organic products that can be produced by cellular metabolism.

Trifluoromethyl-substituted cyclopropanes (CF3 -CPAs) constitute an important class of compounds for drug discovery. While several methods have been developed for synthesis of trans-CF3 -CPAs, stereoselective production of corresponding cis-diastereomers remains a formidable challenge. We report a biocatalyst for diastereo- and enantio-selective synthesis of cis-CF3 -CPAs with activity on a variety of alkenes. We found that an engineered protoglobin from Aeropyrnum pernix (ApePgb) can catalyze this unusual reaction at preparative scale with low-to-excellent yield (6-55 %) and enantioselectivity (17-99 % ee), depending on the substrate. Computational studies revealed that the steric environment in the active site of the protoglobin forced iron-carbenoid and substrates to adopt a pro-cis near-attack conformation. This work demonstrates the capability of enzyme catalysts to tackle challenging chemistry problems and provides a powerful means to expand the structural diversity of CF3 -CPAs for drug discovery.

The structure of the spirocyclic product obtained by reacting catechol with 1,1‐dichloro‐2‐(chloromethyl)cyclopropane is shown by NMR and X‐ray analysis to be that of a 2‐methylcyclopropene (MeCP), instead of the previously reported 2‐methylenecyclopropane (MCP) one. The study of the equilibration between the two isomeric forms by experimental and computational means (including both Density Functional Theory – DFT – and Coupled Cluster with single, double, and perturbative triple excitations – CCSD(T) – calculations) revealed that, at variance with most of the alkylidenecyclopropane/alkylcyclopropene systems described to date, for the compounds of the present study the MeCP derivative is more stable by≈ 2.5–3.0 Kcal mol−1 than the MCP one. The extension of the DFT and CCSD(T) study to other spiro‐MCP/MeCP pairs suggests that the origin of the unexpected shift of the equilibrium position can be tracked back to a combination of electronic and ring‐strain effects. These findings lead to re‐think a long‐standing, and substantially undisputed belief in the area of unsaturated cyclopropane derivatives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The cyclopropanation reaction of alkenes with photolytically‐generated chlorocarbenes from chlorodiazirines is reported as an effective way to prepare substituted 3‐chloro‐3‐aryl‐cyclopropanes. This practical and efficient approach allows the synthesis of various 3‐chloro‐3‐aryl‐cyclopropanes (32 examples) in continuous flow in 5‐minute residence time under light‐emitting diode (LED) irradiation. The conditions using 380 nm LED irradiation were successfully extended to the synthesis of substituted 3‐bromo‐3‐aryl‐cyclopropanes (3 examples). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Light‐mediated processes have received significant attention, since they have re‐surfaced unconventional reactivity platforms, complementary to conventional polar chemistry. γ‐Lactones and cyclopropanes are prevalent moieties, found in numerous natural products and pharmaceuticals. Among various methods for their synthesis, light‐mediated protocols are coming to the spotlight, although these are contingent upon the use of photoorgano‐ or metal‐based catalysts. Herein, we introduce a novel photochemical activation of iodo‐reagents via the use of cheap sodium ascorbate or ascorbic acid to enable their homolytic scission and addition onto double bonds. The developed protocol was applied successfully to the formal [3+2] cycloaddition for the synthesis of γ‐lactones, traditional atom transfer radical addition (ATRA) reactions and the one‐pot two‐step conversion of alkenes to cyclopropanes. In all cases, the desired products were obtained in good to high yields, while the reaction mechanism was thoroughly investigated. Depending on the nature of the iodo‐reagent, a halogen or a hydrogen‐bonded complex is formed, which initiates the process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A desilylation process of optically active silyl‐substituted gem‐difluorocyclopropanes with tetrabutylammonium fluoride (TBAF) showed a substantial reduction of enantiopurity of the resultant gem‐difluorocyclopropanes even at ambient temperatures. The electron‐withdrawing aryl substituent at the 3‐position in the 1‐silyl‐2,2‐difluorocyclopropane system accelerated the racemization, indicating a correlation with the stability of the anionic intermediates. The plausible racemization pathway through homolytic cleavage of the distal bond in gem‐difluorocyclopropane is inconsistent with the experimental results because the high energy of >34 kcal/mol is required for generating the open‐shell 2,2‐difluoropropane‐1,3‐diyl skeleton. The DFT studies using the anionic 2,2‐difluoromethyl‐3‐phenylcyclopropanylide intermediate supported the alternative isomerization pathway through the intramolecular migration of hydrogen and the resultant thermodynamically stable 2,2‐difluoromethyl‐1‐phenylcyclopropanylide anion could facilitate the racemization process at the stereocenter. Although the transition state indicated considerable activation energies, the high frequency of imaginary vibration should correlate with a barrier of a very narrow width enabling quantum tunneling under the H‐migration step. The observed isotope effect is compatible with the proposed mechanism through the intramolecular H‐migration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article discusses the synthesis of Schisandra nortriterpenoids (SNTs), which are biologically active compounds found in the dried fruits of Schisandra species used in traditional Chinese medicine. The focus is on the construction of the all-cis-substituted cyclopropane unit, which is a unique structure found in certain SNTs. The article describes different synthetic approaches and highlights the challenges in synthesizing these compounds. The authors successfully synthesized a possible common intermediate for SNTs containing an all-cis-substituted cyclopropane and are currently investigating the coupling of different fragments to construct the core structure of pre-schisanartanins. [Extracted from the article]

The review summarizes recent advances in the synthesis of 3-azabicyclo[3.1.0]hexane (3-ABH) derivatives that are heterocyclic systems often present in molecules capable of acting on various biological targets and actively used in drug design. Modern synthetic approaches to 3-ABH derivatives based on transition metal catalysis have been classified and analyzed, and mechanisms of the key processes have been considered. The examined approaches include the synthesis of 3-ABH by three- and five-membered ring fusion, as well as numerous one-pot syntheses from acyclic precursors via tandem cyclizations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Electroorganic synthesis is an environmentally friendly methodology for the oxidation and the reduction of organic compounds, since dangerous and toxic redox reagents are replaced by electric current, and the overall energy consumption is reduced. Although the electrochemical step is usually just one part of a multi-step sequence, it constitutes a key process for the generation of a variety of reactive intermediates. Therefore, organic electrochemistry often provides interesting and valuable alternatives to conventional synthetic methods and serves as a useful tool for an organic chemist. The unique electrocatalytic cascade and multicomponent transformations of CH-acids are discussed in this review. The review also reflects modern trends in the use of electrochemically induced chain reactions in cascade and multicomponent electroorganic synthesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BackgroundTreatment and prophylaxis options for neonatal HIV are limited. This study aimed to develop a population pharmacokinetic model to characterize the disposition of maraviroc in neonates to inform dosing regimens and expand available options.MethodsUsing maraviroc concentrations from neonates who received either a single dose or multiple doses of 8 mg/kg of maraviroc in the first 6 weeks of life, a population pharmacokinetic model was developed to determine the effects of age, sex, maternal efavirenz exposure and concomitant ARV therapy on maraviroc disposition. The final model was used in Monte Carlo simulations to generate expected exposures with recommended dosing regimens.ResultsA total of 396 maraviroc concentrations, collected in the first 4 days of life, at 1 week, at 4 weeks and at 6 weeks, from 44 neonates were included in the analysis. After allometrically scaling for weight, age less than 4 days was associated with a 44% decreased apparent clearance compared with participants 7 days to 6 weeks of life. There were no differences identified in apparent clearance or volume of distribution from ages 7 days to 6 weeks, sex, maternal efavirenz exposure or concomitant nevirapine therapy. Monte Carlo simulations with FDA-approved weight band dosing resulted in the majority of simulated patients (84.3%) achieving an average concentration of ≥75 ng/mL.ConclusionsWhile maraviroc apparent clearance is decreased in the first few days of life, the current FDA-approved maraviroc weight band dosing provides maraviroc exposures for neonates in the first 6 weeks of life, which were consistent with adult maraviroc exposure range. Maraviroc provides another antiretroviral treatment option for very young infants.

STUDY OBJECTIVES: Although obesity, asthma, and sleep-disordered breathing are interrelated, there is limited understanding of the independent contributions of body-mass index and pulmonary function on polysomnography in children with asthma. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective chart review on 448 7- to 18-year-old children with asthma who had undergone polysomnography testing between 1/2007-12/2011 to elucidate the association between spirometry variables, body-mass index, and polysomnography parameters, adjusting for asthma and antiallergic medications. RESULTS: Obese children had poorer sleep architecture and more severe gas exchange abnormalities compared to healthy weight children. Multivariate analysis revealed an independent association of body-mass index with sleep efficiency, with more light and less deep sleep in both obese and healthy-weight children, and with baseline oxygen saturation and oxygen nadir in obese children. In obese children, forced vital capacity was independently associated with less deep sleep (time in N3 sleep) as well as with oxygen nadir, while among healthy-weight children, forced expiratory volume directly correlated but forced vital capacity inversely correlated with deep sleep. In obese children, inhaled corticosteroid was associated with baseline oxygen saturation, and montelukast was associated with lower end-tidal carbon dioxide. In healthy-weight children, inhaled corticosteroid was associated with arousal awakening index, and montelukast was associated with light sleep. Antiallergic medications were not independently associated with polysomnography parameters. CONCLUSIONS: Pulmonary function, body-mass index, and asthma medications have independent and differing influences on sleep architecture and gas exchange polysomnography parameters in obese and healthy-weight children with asthma. Asthma medications are associated with improved gas exchange in obese children and improved sleep architecture in healthy-weight children with asthma. CITATION: Conrad LA, Nandalike K, Rani S, Rastogi D. Associations between sleep, obesity, and asthma in urban minority children. J Clin Sleep Med. 2022;18(10):2377-2385.

BackgroundA 4-month regimen containing rifapentine and moxifloxacin has noninferior efficacy compared to the standard 6-month regimen for drug-sensitive tuberculosis. We evaluated the effect of regimens containing daily, high-dose rifapentine on efavirenz pharmacokinetics and viral suppression in patients with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-associated tuberculosis (TB).MethodsIn the context of a Phase 3 randomized controlled trial, HIV-positive individuals already virally suppressed on efavirenz--containing antiretroviral therapy (ART) (EFV1), or newly initiating efavirenz (EFV2) received TB treatment containing rifapentine (1200 mg), isoniazid, pyrazinamide, and either ethambutol or moxifloxacin. Mid-interval efavirenz concentrations were measured (a) during ART and TB cotreatment (Weeks 4, 8, 12, and 17, different by EFV group) and (b) when ART was taken alone (pre- or post-TB treatment, Weeks 0 and 22). Apparent oral clearance (CL/F) was estimated and compared. Target mid-interval efavirenz concentrations were > 1 mg/L. Co-treatment was considered acceptable if > 80% of participants had mid-interval efavirenz concentrations meeting this target.ResultsEFV1 and EFV2 included 70 and 41 evaluable participants, respectively. The geometric mean ratio comparing efavirenz CL/F with vs without TB drugs was 0.79 (90% confidence interval [CI] .72-.85) in EFV1 and 0.84 [90% CI .69-.97] in EFV2. The percent of participants with mid-interval efavirenz concentrations > 1mg/L in EFV1 at Weeks 0, 4, 8, and 17 was 96%, 96%, 88%, and 89%, respectively. In EFV2, at approximately 4 and 8 weeks post efavirenz initiation, the value was 98%.ConclusionsTB treatment containing high-dose daily rifapentine modestly decreased (rather than increased) efavirenz clearance and therapeutic targets were met supporting the use of efavirenz with these regimens, without dose adjustment.Clinical trials registrationNCT02410772.

IntroductionContraceptive implants containing etonogestrel and levonorgestrel have emerged as popular contraceptive options among women in areas of high HIV burden in sub-Saharan Africa. However, recent pharmacokinetic data have shown drug-drug interactions between implants and efavirenz-containing antiretroviral therapy (ART), reducing the effectiveness of the implants. Here, we evaluated pregnancy incidence in 6-month intervals following implant initiation among women using efavirenz and contraceptive implants to assess whether the risk of breakthrough pregnancy is higher after specific periods of implant use.MethodsWe used data from a retrospective longitudinal analysis of women living with HIV ages 18-45 years in western Kenya who attended HIV-care facilities between 2011 and 2015. We used Cox proportional hazard models to compute hazard ratios (HRs) for breakthrough pregnancy by implant type and ART regimen. Depending on the model, we adjusted for socio-demographic and clinical factors, programme, site and interaction between calendar time and ART regimen. We utilized inverse probability weights (IPWs) to account for three sampling phases (electronic medical record [EMR], chart review and phone interview) and calculated overall parameter estimates.ResultsWomen contributed 14,768 woman-years from the largest sampling phase (EMR). The median age was 31 years. Women used etonogestrel implants for 26-69% of the time and levonorgestrel implants for 7-31% of the time, depending on the sampling phase. Women used efavirenz, nevirapine or no ART for 27-33%, 40-46% and 15-26% of follow-ups, respectively. When combining sampling phases, there was little evidence to suggest that the relative hazard of pregnancy among efavirenz-containing ART users relative to nevirapine-containing ART changed with length of time on implants: IPW-adjusted HR of 3.1 (CI: [1.5; 6.4]) at 12 months, 3.4 (CI: [1.8; 6.3]) at 24 months, 3.8 (CI: [1.9; 7.7]) at 36 months and 4.2 (CI: [1.6; 11.1]) at 48 months (interaction p-value = 0.88). Similarly, no significant change in HRs over time was found when comparing women not using ART to nevirapine-containing ART users (interaction p-value = 0.49).ConclusionsWe did not find evidence to suggest implants being more fallible from drug-drug interactions with efavirenz at later time intervals of implant use. Thus, we would not recommend shortening the duration of implant use or replacing implants sooner when concomitantly used with efavirenz.

BackgroundBurns are severe injuries often associated with impaired wound healing. Impaired healing is caused by multiple factors, including dysregulated inflammatory responses at the wound site. Interestingly, montelukast, an antagonist for cysteinyl leukotrienes and U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved for treatment of asthma and allergy, was previously shown to enhance healing in excision wounds and to modulate local inflammation.MethodsIn this study, the authors examined the effect of montelukast on wound healing in a mouse model of scald burn injury. Burn wound tissues isolated from montelukast- and vehicle-treated mice at various times after burn injury were analyzed for wound areas ( n = 34 to 36), reepithelialization ( n = 14), inflammation ( n = 8 to 9), and immune cell infiltration ( n = 3 to 6) and proliferation ( n = 7 to 8).ResultsIn contrast to previously described beneficial effects in excision wounds, this study shows that montelukast delays burn wound healing by impairing the proliferation of keratinocytes and endothelial cells. This occurs largely independently of inflammatory responses at the wound site, suggesting that montelukast impairs specifically the proliferative phase of wound healing in burns. Wound healing rates in mice in which leukotrienes are not produced were not affected by montelukast.ConclusionMontelukast delays wound healing mainly by reducing the proliferation of local cells after burn injury.Clinical relevance statementAlthough additional and clinical studies are necessary, our study suggests that burn patients who are on montelukast may exhibit delayed healing, necessitating extra observation.

The high cost of viral load (VL) testing limits its use for antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence support. A low-cost lateral flow urine tenofovir (TFV) rapid assay predicts pre-exposure prophylaxis breakthroughs, but has not yet been investigated in HIV treatment. We therefore evaluated its utility in a pilot cross-sectional study of TFV-containing ART recipients at an increased risk of virologic failure (VF). Participants who had a treatment interruption ≥30 days or had ≥1 episode of viremia (VL ≥400 copies/mL) in the previous year were recruited from a public health setting in Cape Town, South Africa. Self-reported adherence data were collected, the urine TFV assay performed, and concurrent TFV-diphosphate analyzed in dried blood spots. VL testing was done concurrently and, if viremic, genotypic HIV drug resistance testing was performed. Of 48 participants, 18 (37.5%) had VL (>400 copies/mL) at the time of the study, including 16 of 39 receiving efavirenz (EFV), 2 of 6 receiving protease inhibitors, and 0 of 3 receiving dolutegravir. Resistance testing succeeded in 17/18, of which 14 had significant mutations compromising ≥2 agents of the current EFV-based regimen. Of these 14, all had detected urine TFV. Urine TFV was undetectable in two out of three without regimen-relevant resistance; p = .02. In participants on EFV-based regimens returning to care, VF was largely due to viral resistance, where detectable urine TFV had 100% sensitivity (14/14 participants) in predicting resistance. Conversely, when undetectable, the urine-based assay could be used to preclude participants with poor adherence from undergoing costly HIV drug resistance testing.

A diastereo‐ and enantioselective synthesis of spirocyclopropylpyrazolones has been described through a Michael/alkylation cascade reaction of 4‐arylidenepyrazol‐5‐ones with diethyl 2‐bromomalonate catalyzed by (DHQ)2AQN. The reaction afforded selectively the corresponding spirocyclic compounds with 30–83% yield, diastereoselectivities ranging from 60:40 to >95:5 and 26–93% enantiomeric excess under mild reaction conditions. Moreover, we performed two selective transformations with the corresponding chiral compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reactions of dimethyl 2‐arylcyclopropane‐1,1‐dicarboxylates, used as representatives of D‐A cyclopropanes, with tropothione were carried out in the presence of scandium triflate as a catalyst, under mild conditions (CH2Cl2 solution, rt). The anticipated (8+3)‐cycloaddition products, cycloheptatriene fused thiopyrans, were obtained in good to excellent yields. Cycloadditions occurred with complete diastereoselectivity and in all cases single diastereomers were formed. Structures of isolated cycloadducts were established based on spectroscopic data and in two cases they were unambiguously confirmed by single crystal X‐ray diffraction analysis. In contrast to an analogous (8+3)‐cycloaddition reported for parent tropone, which was performed in the presence of Ni(ClO4)2, no 1,3‐H shift leading to products possessing a CH2 moiety located within the seven‐membered ring was observed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article provides a summary of recent advancements in high-order dipolar annulations (HODAs) of donor-acceptor cyclopropanes (DACs) and donor-acceptor cyclobutanes (DABs). These processes are used to construct highly functionalized medium-sized (hetero)cycles. The article highlights various annulation reactions, including (3+4) and (3+5) annulations, and discusses the catalysts and reaction conditions used. The authors suggest that future research in this field should focus on discovering new annulation modes and developing efficient chiral organometallic catalysts. [Extracted from the article]

The symposium on the chemistry of alkynes, allenes, and small rings was held on July 3–6, 2023 at St. Petersburg State University as part of the All-Russian conference with international participation "Ideas and Legacy of A.E. Favorsky in Organic Chemistry." Leading experts in the chemistry of alkynes, allenes, and small rings took part in the conference, recent advances in the chemistry of compounds of these classes were presented, and prospects for further development of this research field were discussed. Brief annotations of the reports made and references to the relevant publications of the authors are collected in the present review. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, we have disclosed a feasible approach to access oxygen bridged tricycle‐fused cyclopropane derivatives via visible light mediated photocatalyzed energy transfer process. This protocol describes one step multi‐fused ring formation under mild reaction conditions to furnish a wide range of the fused cyclopropane derivatives in moderate to high yields with excellent diastereoselectivities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A simple and convenient approach to the synthesis of the derivatives of unsymmetrical 1,1′-disubstituted cyclopropane-containing azinylferrocenes was suggested. A regioselective method for the Friedel—Crafts acylation of monoazinyl-substituted ferrocenes with a 4-chlorobutyryl chloride—AlCl3 mixture in CH2Cl2 under an inert atmosphere was elaborated. The acylation product on treatment with ButOK in DMSO readily underwent γ-elimination of HCl to give the corresponding cyclopropanes. The structures of the synthesized compounds were confirmed by IR spectroscopy, 1H and 13C spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, and X-ray diffraction analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The previously unknown cyclopropane spiro-fused with isoxazol-5-one ((1RS,3SR)-1-(4-methylbenzyl)-7-phenyl-5-oxa-6-azaspiro[2.4]hept-6-en-4-one) was synthesized from benzylideneisoxazol-5-one in 34% yield via double methylene transfer from diazomethane. The structure of the compound was established based on 1H, 13C, and 2D NMR spectroscopy and high-resolution mass spectrometry, and confirmed by X-ray diffraction analysis.

Fluorogenic bioorthogonal reactions enable biomolecule visualization in real time. These reactions comprise reporters that "light up" upon reaction with complementary partners. While the spectrum of fluorogenic chemistries is expanding, few transformations are compatible with live cells due to cross-reactivities or insufficient signal turn-on. To address the need for more suitable chemistries for cellular imaging, we developed a fluorogenic reaction featuring cyclopropenone reporters and phosphines. The transformation involves regioselective activation and cyclization of cyclopropenones to form coumarin products. With optimal probes, the reaction provides >1600-fold signal turn-on, one of the highest fluorescence enhancements reported to date. The bioorthogonal motifs were evaluated in vitro and in cells. The reaction was also found to be compatible with other common fluorogenic transformations, enabling multicomponent, real-time imaging. Collectively, these data suggest that the cyclopropenone-phosphine reaction will bolster efforts to track biomolecule targets in their native settings.

BackgroundAfter anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction, patient-reported outcomes are improved 10 years post-surgery; however, cytokine concentrations remain elevated years after surgery with over 80% of those with combined ACL and meniscus injuries having posttraumatic osteoarthritis (PTOA) within 10-15 years. The purpose of this multicenter, randomized, placebo-controlled trial is to assess whether a 6-month course of oral montelukast after ACL reconstruction reduces systemic markers of inflammation and biochemical and imaging biomarkers of cartilage degradation.MethodsWe will enroll 30 individuals undergoing primary ACL reconstruction to participate in this IRB-approved multicenter clinical trial. This trial will target those at greatest risk of a more rapid PTOA onset (age range 25-50 with concomitant meniscus injury). Patients will be randomly assigned to a group instructed to take 10 mg of montelukast daily for 6 months following ACL reconstruction or placebo. Patients will be assessed prior to surgery and 1, 6, and 12 months following surgery. To determine if montelukast alters systemic inflammation following surgery, we will compare systemic concentrations of prostaglandin E2, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1, and pro-inflammatory cytokines between groups. We will also compare degradative changes on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) collected 1 and 12 months following surgery between groups with reductions in early biomarkers of cartilage degradation assessed with urinary biomarkers of type II collagen breakdown and bony remodeling.DiscussionThere is a complex interplay between the pro-inflammatory intra-articular environment, underlying bone remodeling, and progressive cartilage degradation. PTOA affects multiple tissues and appears to be more similar to rheumatoid arthritis than osteoarthritis with respect to inflammation. There is currently no treatment to delay or prevent PTOA after ACL injury. Since there is a larger and more persistent inflammatory response after ACL reconstruction than the initial insult of injury, treatment may need to be initiated after surgery, sustained over a period of time, and target multiple mechanisms in order to successfully alter the disease process. This study will assess whether a 6-month postoperative course of oral montelukast affects multiple PTOA mechanisms. Because montelukast administration can be safely sustained for long durations and offers a low-cost treatment option, should it be proven effective in the current trial, these results can be immediately incorporated into clinical practice.Trial registrationClinicalTrials.gov NCT04572256 . Registered on October 1, 2020.

BackgroundPregnant women using antiretrovirals (ARVs) may have persistent vaginal viral shedding, which could be associated with sexual and perinatal HIV transmission. However, there are scant data on vaginal viral load (VVL) in pregnant women with undetectable plasma viral load (PVL).MethodsThis study was a post hoc analysis of an open-label randomized trial to evaluate the virologic response of 2 ART regimens. The participants were ART-naive women living with HIV initiating ART regimens between 20 and 36 weeks of pregnancy recruited at 19 clinical sites in 6 countries. Participants were randomized to receive 400 mg of raltegravir 2 times a day or 600 mg of efavirenz 4 times a day in addition to 150 mg of lamivudine and 300 mg of zidovudine 2 times a day. VVL and PVL tests were performed at every study visit. The primary outcome measures were HIV-1 PVL and VVL at maternal study week 4 and rates of perinatal HIV transmission.ResultsA total of 408 were enrolled, of whom 323 had VVL samples 4 weeks after enrollment and were included in this analysis. Among women with undetectable/nonquantifiable PVL during ART, the overall rate of quantifiable VVL at week 4 was 2.54% (7/275). Of the 275 with nonquantifiable PVL, 99.1% (115/116) and 96.2% (153/159) had nonquantifiable VVL in the efavirenz and raltegravir arms, respectively. None of the 7 women with quantifiable VVL at the week 4 study visit transmitted HIV to their infants.ConclusionsDetectable VVL in pregnant women with undetectable/nonquantifiable PVL while receiving ART was rare and not associated with perinatal HIV transmission.

In an analysis of randomized trials, use of efavirenz for treatment of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection was associated with increased suicidal thoughts/behaviors. However, analyses of observational data have found no evidence of increased risk. To assess whether population differences might explain this divergence, we transported the effect of efavirenz use from these trials to a specific target population. Using inverse odds weights and multiple imputation, we transported the effect of efavirenz on suicidal thoughts/behaviors in these randomized trials (participants were enrolled in 2001-2007) to a trials-eligible cohort of US adults initiating antiretroviral therapy while receiving HIV clinical care at medical centers between 1999 and 2015. Overall, 8,291 cohort participants and 3,949 trial participants were eligible. Prescription of antidepressants (19% vs. 13%) and injection drug history (16% vs. 10%) were more frequent in the cohort than in the trial participants. Compared with the effect in trials, the estimated hazard ratio for efavirenz on suicidal thoughts/behaviors was attenuated in our target population (trials: hazard ratio (HR) = 2.3 (95% confidence interval (CI): 1.2, 4.4); transported: HR = 1.8 (95% CI: 0.9, 4.4)), whereas the incidence rate difference was similar (trials: HR = 5.1 (95% CI: 1.6, 8.7); transported: HR = 5.4 (95% CI: -0.4, 11.4)). In our target population, there was greater than 20% attenuation of the hazard ratio estimate as compared with the trials-only estimate. Transporting results from trials to a target population is informative for addressing external validity.

By resorting to the principle of remote activation, we herein demonstrate the first photoredox catalyzed (3+3) dipolar cycloaddition of nitrones with aryl cyclopropanes. Key to the fidelity of the reaction resides in a facile manner of substrate activation by single‐electron transfer (SET) oxidation with photoredox catalysis, and the reaction takes place through a stepwise cascade encompassing a three‐electron‐type nucleophilic substitution triggered cyclopropane ring‐opening and a diastereoselective 6‐endo‐trig radical cyclization manifold. The reaction proceeds under mild conditions with excellent regio‐ and stereoselectivity, nicely complementing the well‐developed Lewis acid catalyzed cycloaddition of donor‐acceptor cyclopropanes. Other merits of the protocol include wide scope of aryl cyclopropanes with diversified substitution patterns and good functional‐group compatibility. A mechanism involving an aryl radical cation promoted remote activation mode was also proposed and supported by mechanistic experiments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nickel PyBox catalysts promote nucleophilic cyclopropanation reactions using CH2Cl2 as a methylene source and Mn as a stoichiometric reductant. The substrate scope includes a broad range of alkenes bearing electron‐withdrawing substituents, including esters, amides, ketones, nitriles, sulfones, phosphonate esters, trifluoromethyl groups, and electron‐deficient arenes. Enantioselective cyclopropanations of α,β‐unsaturated esters have been developed using chiral PyBox ligands. Mechanistic studies suggest the intermediacy of a (PyBox)Ni=CH2 species, which adds to the alkene by a stepwise [2+2]‐cycloaddition/C−C reductive elimination mechanism. DFT models provide a rationale for the nucleophilic character of the nickel carbene and the sense of enantioinduction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cyclopropane skeletons play a prominent role in the development of organic synthesis and pharmaceutical chemistry. Herein, we report the design and synthesis of a stable, multifunctional (diborylmethyl)iodide reagent (CHI(Bpin)2) for the photoinduced cyclopropanation of alkenes, providing an array of 1,2‐substituted cyclopropylboronates in good yields. This α‐haloboronic ester can be readily synthesized on a multigram scale from commercially available starting materials. Furthermore, the protocol displays high chemo‐ and diastereoselectivity, excellent functional‐group tolerance, and allows for late‐stage borylcyclopropanation of complex molecules. Mechanistic studies reveal that the borylcyclopropanation proceeds through a radical addition/polar cyclization pathway mediated by the photocatalyst fac‐Ir(ppy)3 and visible light. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cyclopropanes, cyclizations, dianions, regioselectivity, silyl enol ethers We studied cyclizations of free dianions with dielectrophiles, [6] cyclizations of dianions and other dinucleophiles with oxalic acid-bis(imidoyl)dichlorides, [7] cyclizations of oxime and hydrazine dianions, [8] and cyclizations of 1,3-dicarbonyl dianions with 1,2-dielectrophiles to give 2-(alkylidene)tetrahydrofurans. Keywords: cyclopropanes; cyclizations; dianions; regioselectivity; silyl enol ethers EN cyclopropanes cyclizations dianions regioselectivity silyl enol ethers 1765 1776 12 08/29/23 20230915 NES 230915 Graph 1 Introduction From 1998-2001, I carried out my habilitation, the first period of independent research in Germany, at the University of Göttingen under the mentorship of Prof. Armin de Meijere. Based on work of T. H. Chan and co-workers, we studied cyclizations of 1,3-bis(trimethylsilyloxy)-1,3-butadienes with silyl enol ethers to give salicylates, such as B C b . [Extracted from the article]

α,β‐Unsaturated enones possessing an unactivated olefin at the ϵ‐, ζ‐ or η‐position underwent an aluminum chloride‐promoted Conia‐ene‐related cyclization, affording unsaturated decalones or hexahydroindenones in generally good yields. Cyclopropanes could be used as olefin surrogates in this process, leading to the same bicyclic products in slightly improved efficiency as the result of 1,2‐ or 1,3‐hydroalkenylation reactions. This method provided an access to a whole range of bi‐ or tricyclic enone synthons, some of which were potentially useful as odorants or in the synthesis of biologically active molecules. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Flowers are the core reproductive structures and key distinguishing features of angiosperms. Flower opening to expose stamens and gynoecia is important in cases where pollinators much be attracted to promote cross-pollination, which can enhance reproductive success and species preservation. The floral opening process is accompanied by the coordinated movement of various floral organs, particularly petals. However, the mechanisms underlying petal movement and flower opening are not well understood. Here, we integrated anatomical, physiological, and molecular approaches to determine the petal movement regulatory network using rose (Rosa hybrida) as a model. We found that PETAL MOVEMENT-RELATED PROTEIN1 (RhPMP1), a homeodomain transcription factor (TF) gene, is a direct target of ETHYLENE INSENSITIVE3, a TF that functions downstream of ethylene signaling. RhPMP1 expression was upregulated by ethylene and specifically activated endoreduplication of parenchyma cells on the adaxial side of the petal (ADSP) base by inducing the expression of RhAPC3b, a gene encoding the core subunit of the Anaphase-Promoting Complex. Cell expansion of the parenchyma on the ADSP base was subsequently enhanced, thus resulting in asymmetric growth of the petal base, leading to the typical epinastic movement of petals and flower opening. These findings provide insights into the pathway regulating petal movement and associated flower-opening mechanisms.?.

In this article, we advance Rh-catalyzed hydrothiolation through the divergent reactivity of cyclopropenes. Cyclopropenes undergo hydrothiolation to provide cyclopropyl sulfides or allylic sulfides. The choice of bisphosphine ligand dictates whether the pathway involves ring-retention or ring-opening. Mechanistic studies reveal the origin for this switchable selectivity. Our results suggest the two pathways share a common cyclopropyl-Rh(III) intermediate. Electron-rich Josiphos ligands promote direct reductive elimination from this intermediate to afford cyclopropyl sulfides in high enantio- and diastereoselectivities. Alternatively, atropisomeric ligands (such as DTBM-BINAP) enable ring-opening from the cyclopropyl-Rh(III) intermediate to generate allylic sulfides with high enantio- and regiocontrol.

BackgroundSevere hepatotoxicity in people with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) receiving efavirenz (EFV) has been reported. We assessed the incidence and risk factors of hepatotoxicity in women of childbearing age initiating EFV-containing regimens.MethodsIn the Promoting Maternal and Infant Survival Everywhere (PROMISE) trial, ART-naive pregnant women with HIV and CD4 count ≥ 350 cells/μL and alanine aminotransferase ≤ 2.5 the upper limit of normal were randomized during the antepartum and postpartum periods to antiretroviral therapy (ART) strategies to assess HIV vertical transmission, safety, and maternal disease progression. Hepatotoxicity was defined per the Division of AIDS Toxicity Tables. Cox proportional hazards models were constructed with covariates including participant characteristics, ART regimens, and timing of EFV initiation.ResultsAmong 3576 women, 2435 (68%) initiated EFV at a median 121.1 weeks post delivery. After EFV initiation, 2.5% (61/2435) had severe (grade 3 or higher) hepatotoxicity with an incidence of 2.3 (95% confidence interval [CI], 2.0-2.6) per 100 person-years. Events occurred between 1 and 132 weeks postpartum. Of those with severe hepatotoxicity, 8.2% (5/61) were symptomatic, and 3.3% (2/61) of those with severe hepatotoxicity died from EFV-related hepatotoxicity, 1 of whom was symptomatic. The incidence of liver-related mortality was 0.07 (95% CI, .06-.08) per 100 person-years. In multivariable analysis, older age was associated with severe hepatotoxicity (adjusted hazard ratio per 5 years, 1.35 [95% CI, 1.06-1.70]).ConclusionsSevere hepatotoxicity after EFV initiation occurred in 2.5% of women and liver-related mortality occurred in 3% of those with severe hepatotoxicity. The occurrence of fatal events underscores the need for safer treatments for women of childbearing age.