Crystal structure of 2-hydroxy-1-tosylindolin-3-yl- 2-naphthoate, C26H21N1S1O5

C26H21N1S1O5, monoclinic, P21/c (no. 14), a = 7.623(3) Å, b = 25.617(12) Å, c = 11.775(5) Å, β = 100.073(8)°, V = 2264.2(17) Å3, Z = 4, R gt (F) = 0.0470, wR ref (F 2) = 0.1365, T = 298(2) K.

Effects of phytosterol supplementation on growth performance, serum lipid, proinflammatory cytokines, intestinal morphology, and meat quality of white feather broilers

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of dietary phytosterol (PS) addition at different levels on growth performance, serum lipid, proinflammatory cytokines, intestinal morphology, and meat quality in broilers. A total of 600, 1-day-old male broilers were allocated into five groups with six replicates and were fed a basal diet supplemented with 0 (control group), 10, 20, 40, or 80 mg/kg PS for 42 days. Compared with the control group, the administration of PS at doses of 40 and 80 mg/kg significantly increased the average daily feed intake and average daily gain of broilers during the experimental period. Similarly, PS at a dosage of 20 and 40 mg/kg increased the concentrations of interleukin-1β, interferon-γ, interleukin-2, and interleukin-6 but decreased triglyceride, total cholesterol, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol content of serum (P < 0.05). Dietary PS at less than or equal to 40 mg/kg level increased (P < 0.05) villus height, and villus height to crypt depth ratio in the duodenum and ileum. Supplementing PS increased the pH value at 45 min post-mortem and decreased drip loss and shear force of breast muscle (P < 0.05). Dietary PS administration at 20 and 40 mg/kg decreased malondialdehyde accumulation but increased total antioxidant capacity and superoxide dismutase activity of breast muscle compared with the control group (P < 0.05). PS increased the concentrations of total amino acids and flavor amino acids as well as eicosapentaenoic acid, docosahexaenoic acid, and total polyunsaturated fatty acids but decreased saturated fatty acids in breast muscle (P < 0.05). It was concluded that dietary PS supplementation, especially at 40 mg/kg, could improve growth performance, serum lipid, proinflammatory cytokines, intestinal morphology, and meat quality in broilers, providing insights into its application as a potential feed additive in broiler production.

Crystal structure of 1‐tert‐butyl‐3‐(2,6‐diisopropyl‐4‐phenoxyphenyl)‐2-methylisothiourea, C24H34N2OS

C24H34N2OS, M = 398.59, orthorhombic, P212121 (no. 19), a = 11.0576(3) Å, b = 11.8406(3) Å, c = 18.0061(5) Å, V = 2357.51(11) Å3, Z = 4, R gt (F) = 0.0334, wR ref (F 2) = 0.0780, T = 170 K.

Crystal structure of (E)-N-(1-((2-chlorothiazol-5-yl)methyl)pyridin-2(1H)-ylidene)-2,2,2-trifluoroacetamide, C11H7ClF3N3OS

C11H7ClF3N3OS, monoclinic, C2/c (no. 15), a = 21.9623(8) Å, b = 9.7431(4) Å, c = 16.1379(5) Å, β = 132.0530(10)°, V = 2564.09(16) Å3, Z = 8, R gt (F) = 0.0456, wR ref (F 2) = 0.0938, T = 170 K.

[ETV6-rearranged low-grade sinonasal non-intestinal-type adenocarcinoma: a clinicopathological analysis]

Objective: To investigate the clinicopathologic features, immunophenotype, molecular genetic changes of ETV6-rearranged low-grade sinonasal non-intestinal-type adenocarcinoma (ETV6-RLGSNAC). Methods: Primary sinonasal epithelial malignant tumors were collected from January 2015 to January 2020 in the Department of Pathology, Eye, Ear, Nose and Throat Hospital affiliated to Fudan University. Through morphological observation, immunohistochemical detection and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), ETV6-RLGSNAC was screened out for clinicopathological feature analysis, and relevant literatures were reviewed. Results: There were 550 cases of primary sinonasal epithelial malignant tumors, among which 82 cases were adenocarcinoma. There were 29 cases of low-grade non-intestinal adenocarcinoma, only 3 cases of ETV6-RLGSNAC were screened out. Of the 3 patients, 2 cases were male and 1 case was female, with a mean age of 54 years (range 37-64 years). The main clinical manifestations were nasal stenosis, nasal obstruction and epistaxis. A neoplasm with smooth surfaces was observed under nasal endoscopy. Imaging showed an expansive mass in the sinonasal area. Gross examination showed gray-yellow cut surface with firm texture and a maximum diameter of 2-3 cm. Microscopically, tumors were non-encapsulated and well-circumscribed with expansive growth pattern. The tumor cells were small and mild, cylindrical and cuboidal, and arranged in regular glandular and trabecular patterns. The cytoplasm was eosinophilic and the nuclei were basally located with inconspicuous nucleoli. By immunohistochemistry (IHC), CK7, SOX-10, DOG1 and vimentin were positive and S-100 expressed in small clusters of cells in all cases. GCDFP-15, CD56, CK20, mammaglobin, TTF-1, NR4A3 were all negative. The Ki-67 value-added index of all cases was low (<5%). ETV6 gene rearrangement was confirmed in all the cases by FISH, and two cases had NTRK3 gene rearrangement. All three patients underwent radical resection after diagnosis, and one also had adjuvant radiotherapy. All three patients were available with a follow-up time of 12-25 months, and all were recurrence free. Conclusions: ETV6-RLGSNAC is a rare low-grade and newly named non-intestinal adenocarcinoma. The histomorphology is similar to other low-grade nasal sinonasal adenocarcinomas and some salivary gland tumors. IHC and FISH are useful for the diagnosis and differential diagnosis.

[Sinonasal renal cell-like adenocarcinoma: a clinicopathological analysis of five cases]

Objective: To investigate the clinicopathological features, immunophenotype, differential diagnosis and prognosis of sinonasal renal cell-like adenocarcinoma. Methods: Retrospective analysis was performed on the cases of sinonasal carcinoma from August 2014 to December 2018 at Eye, Ear, Nose and Throat Hospital, Fudan University. Renal cell-like adenocarcinoma was screened for clinicopathologic feature analysis, and relevant literatures were reviewed. Results: There were 460 cases of sinonasal carcinoma, among which 70 cases (15.2%) were adenocarcinoma, with five (1.1%) being renal cell-like adenocarcinomas. Four patients were male and one was female, with a mean age of 46.5 years (range 29-52 years). The main clinical manifestations were nasal obstruction and epistasis. A red polypoid mass was found under nasal endoscopy. Imaging showed nasal cavity and ethmoid sinus mass with invasion into surrounding structures and bone destruction. Microscopically, the tumor cells were arranged in nests, alveoli and microcapsules with abundant intervening capillaries, accompanied by hemorrhage. The cytoplasm of the cells was clear with low nuclear grade, and the nucleoli were inconspicuous. In some areas, the tumor invaded bone tissue. Immunohistochemical markers CKpan, CK7, CAⅨ, S-100 and vimentin were positive, with low Ki-67 proliferation index. RCC, CD10, PAX8, p63, SMA, HHF35, Calponin, CD117, TTF-1 and neuroendocrine markers Syn and CHG were all negative. EWSR1 and ETV6 gene rearrangements were not detected by FISH. All five patients underwent surgical resection after initial diagnosis. One patient underwent surgical resection after second recurrence and adjuvant radiotherapy, one patient received postoperative radiotherapy, one patient underwent surgical resection after recurrence, one patient had no recurrence and one patient received radiotherapy after recurrence. All five patients had no distant metastasis and survived without tumor up to December 2019. Conclusions: Primary sinonasal renal cell-like adenocarcinoma is a special subtype of low-grade non intestinal adenocarcinoma, with low incidence and inert biologic behavior. At present, most of the literatures are case reports. Before a diagnosis is made, other primary and metastatic clear cell tumors need to be excluded. Immunohistochemistry is helpful for diagnosis and differential diagnosis. Surgical resection is the mainstay of treatment, and may be supplemented by radiotherapy.

CpARF2 and CpEIL1 interact to mediate auxin-ethylene interaction and regulate fruit ripening in papaya

Papaya (Carica papaya L.) is a commercially important fruit crop. Various phytohormones, particularly ethylene and auxin, control papaya fruit ripening. However, little is known about the interaction between auxin and ethylene signaling during the fruit ripening process. In the present study, we determined that the interaction between the CpARF2 and CpEIL1 mediates the interaction between auxin and ethylene signaling to regulate fruit ripening in papaya. We identified the ethylene-induced auxin response factor CpARF2 and demonstrated that it is essential for fruit ripening in papaya. CpARF2 interacts with an important ethylene signal transcription factor CpEIL1, thus increasing the CpEIL1-mediated transcription of the fruit ripening-associated genes CpACS1, CpACO1, CpXTH12 and CpPE51. Moreover, CpEIL1 is ubiquitinated by CpEBF1 and is degraded through the 26S proteasome pathway. However, CpARF2 weakens the CpEBF1-CpEIL1 interaction and interferes with CpEBF1-mediated degradation of CpEIL1, promoting fruit ripening. Therefore, CpARF2 functions as an integrator in the auxin-ethylene interaction and regulates fruit ripening by stabilizing CpEIL1 protein and promoting the transcriptional activity of CpEIL1. To our knowledge, we have revealed a novel module of CpARF2/CpEIL1/CpEBF1 that fine-tune fruit ripening in papaya. Manipulating this mechanism could help growers tightly control papaya fruit ripening and prolong shelf life.

A novel fluorescent sensor for specific recognition of GSH based on the copper complex and its bioimaging in living cells

Given the important role of biothiols in various physiological processes, there is a need to develop novel fluorescent sensors for detecting them. Herein, a novel "on-off-on" fluorescent sensor (E)-N'-((7-(diethylamino)-2-oxo-2H-chromen-3-yl)methylene)-6-((quinolin-8-yloxy)methyl)picolinohydrazide (PQC) was synthesized and its absorbance and fluorescence properties were characterized. The sensor PQC could form a stable complex and showed a significant fluorescence quenching response to Cu²⁺ with a quenching efficiency of approximately 100%, and the PQC-Cu²⁺ complex showed a fluorescence enhancement response to GSH with a higher recovery rate of above 80% in a CH₃OH/HEPES (9:1 v/v, pH = 7.23) buffer system. Its detection limits were determined to be 0.17 μM for Cu²⁺ and 0.20 μM for GSH, and the binding stoichiometry of PQC-Cu²⁺ was determined to be 1: 1 by Job's plot method. Importantly, the sensor PQC can be used for filter paper strip tests and bioimaging in living cells.

A simple fluorescent probe for detection of Ag+ and Cd2+ and its Cd2+ complex for sequential recognition of S2

In this study, we designed and synthesized a simple probe 2-(8-((8-methoxyquinolin-2-yl)methoxy)quinolin-2-yl)benzo[d]thiazole (DQT) for detection of Ag⁺ and Cd²⁺ in a CH₃OH/HEPES (9 : 1 v/v, pH = 7.30) buffer system. Its structure was characterized by NMR, ESI-HR-MS and DFT calculations, and its fluorescence performance was also investigated. Probe DQT showed fluorescence quenching in response to Ag⁺ and Cd²⁺ with low detection limits of 0.42 μM and 0.26 μM, respectively. Importantly, the complexation of the probe with Cd²⁺ resulted in a red shift from blue to green, making it possible to detect Ag⁺ and Cd²⁺ by the naked eye under an ultraviolet lamp. The DQT-Cd²⁺ complex could be used for sequential recognition of S^2-. The recovery response could be repeated 3 times by alternate addition of Cd²⁺ and S^2-. A filter paper strip test further demonstrated the potential of probe DQT as a convenient and rapid assay.

A novel fluorescent chemosensor based on coumarin and quinolinyl-benzothiazole for sequential recognition of Cu2+ and PPi and its applicability in live cell imaging

In this study, a highly selective fluorescent sensor (E)-2-((2-(benzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)quinolin-8-yl)oxy)-N'-((7-(diethylamino)-2-oxo-2H-chromen-3-yl)methylene)acetohydrazide (TQC) was synthesized from 2-methylquinolin-8-ol and 4-(diethylamino)-2-hydroxybenzaldehyde and its structure was characterized by ¹H NMR, ¹³C NMR, ESI-HR-MS and density functional theory (DFT) calculation. Sensor TQC showed an obvious "on-off-on" fluorescence response to Cu²⁺ and PPi in a DMSO/HEPES (3:2 v/v, pH = 7.4) buffer system. The detection limits of sensor TQC were 0.06 μM to Cu²⁺ and 0.01 μM to PPi. In addition, sensor TQC showed a 1:1 binding stoichiometry to Cu²⁺ and TQC-Cu²⁺ complex showed a 2:1 binding stoichiometry to PPi. The optimum pH range of sensor TQC and TQC-Cu²⁺ was 3-8. Further studies demonstrated that sensor TQC could be made into test paper strips for the qualitative of Cu²⁺ and PPi and showed sequentially "on-off-on" fluorescent bio-imaging of Cu²⁺ and PPi in HeLa cells.

[SMARCB1 (INI1)-deficient sinonasal carcinoma: a clinicopathological analysis of six cases]

Objective: To study the clinicopathological features, diagnostic features and differential diagnoses of SMARCB1 (INI1)-deficient sinonasal carcinoma (SDSC). Methods: Six cases of SDSC diagnosed at Eye, Ear, Nose and Throat Hospital, Fudan University from 2016 to 2018 were retrieved; the clinical features, histomorphology, immunophenotype, radiology and outcome were analyzed with review of literature. Results: There were five men and one woman with age range of 37 years to 75 years (mean 56 years). One case was in stage T2, and 5 cases were in stage T4. Computer tomography and magnetic resonance imaging showed a mass occupying the sinonasal cavity with bone destruction in all six patients. Microscopically, the tumors had infiltrative margins. Four tumors were composed mostly of basaloid cells, which possessed high nuclear/cytoplasmic ratio,scant cytoplasm,and minimalnuclear pleomorphism; and the cells were arranged in sheets or nests in a desmoplastic stroma. Two tumors were composed of rhabdoid cells, which possessed abundant, eosinophilic cytoplasm and eccentric nuclei, often growing in a nests or sheets pattern. Immunohistochemical staining showed that 6/6 cases had complete loss of INI1, diffusely and strongly positive for CKpan, and were negative for S-100 and EBER ISH; 4/6 cases were focally positive for p63; 1/5 was focally positive for Syn and p16. The Ki-67 index was 30% to 70%. The follow-up period ranged 1-26 months, with one patient died of extensive metastases, one had local recurrence, and two had lymph node metastases; one was alive without disease, and one was lost to follow-up. Conclusions: SMARCB1 (INI1)-deficient sinonasal carcinoma is mostly aggressive, with rapid progression and poor prognosis. Histomorphological spectrum predominantly consists of basaloid type and rhabdoid type. The complete loss of nuclear expression of INI1 can help to distinguish this tumor from its many mimickers.

Total synthesis, structural revision and biological evaluation of γ-elemene-type sesquiterpenes

Total synthesis and absolute configuration confirmation of γ-elemene-type sesquiterpenes, which possess vast potential for biological activities, was investigated based on a convergent synthetic strategy. A key intermediate with all functional groups of this family of natural products was accessed by an intermolecular aldol reaction and then an acetylation of a known ketone (12) derived from commercially available verbenone. The versatile intermediate can be easily transformed into structurally different γ-elemene-type sesquiterpenes based on control of base-promoted cyclization manipulation in different solvents. The utility of this robust approach is illustrated by the first syntheses of elema-1,3,7(11),8-tetraen-8,12-lactam (4') and 8β-methoxy-isogermafurenolide (6a), as well as the syntheses of elem-1,3,7,8-tetraen-8,12-olide (3) and hydroxyisogermafurenolide (5) in only 6 or 7 steps. In addition, the structure of the reported 5βH-elem-1,3,7,8-tetraen-8,12-olide (1) was revised as elem-1,3,7,8-tetraen-8,12-olide (3) by comparison of their identified datum, and the absolute configuration of elema-1,3,7(11),8-tetraen-8,12-lactam was confirmed as 4'. Furthermore, the inhibitory effect of all synthesized natural compounds and their natural analogues on cancer cell proliferation was evaluated. Among them compounds 3, 4 and 4' were found to possess potent inhibitory activity against Kasumi-1 and Pfeiffer. Meanwhile, preliminary structure-activity relationships for these compounds are discussed.

Synthesis of Four Illudalane Sesquiterpenes Utilizing a One-Pot Diels-Alder/Oxidative Aromatization Sequence

The concise, divergent total syntheses of four illudalane sesquiterpenes using an indanone as the key intermediate are reported. The key elements in these total syntheses, which involve only four to six operational steps, consist of a Suzuki cross-coupling and a one-pot Diels-Alder/oxidative aromatization reaction.

Comparative proteomic analysis provides novel insights into the regulation mechanism underlying papaya (Carica papaya L.) exocarp during fruit ripening process

BACKGROUND

Papaya (Carica papaya L.) is a popular climacteric fruit, undergoing various physico-chemical changes during ripening. Although papaya is widely cultivated and consumed, few studies on the changes in metabolism during its ripening process at the proteasome level have been performed. Using a newly developed TMT-LCMS analysis, proteomes of papaya fruit at different ripening stages were investigated.

RESULTS

In total, 3220 proteins were identified, of which 2818 proteins were quantified. The differential accumulated proteins (DAPs) exhibited various biological functions and diverse subcellular localizations. The KEGG enrichment analysis showed that various metabolic pathways were significantly altered, particularly in flavonoid and fatty acid metabolisms. The up-regulation of several flavonoid biosynthesis-related proteins may provide more raw materials for pigment biosynthesis, accelerating the color variation of papaya fruit. Variations in the fatty acid metabolism- and cell wall degradation-related proteins were investigated during the ripening process. Furthermore, the contents of several important fatty acids were determined, and increased unsaturated fatty acids may be associated with papaya fruit volatile formation.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data may give an intrinsic explanation of the variations in metabolism during the ripening process of papaya fruit.

A qualitative proteome-wide lysine crotonylation profiling of papaya (Carica papaya L.)

Lysine crotonylation of histone proteins is a recently-identified post-translational modification with multiple cellular functions. However, no information about lysine crotonylation of non-histone proteins in fruit cells is available. Using high-resolution LC-MS/MS coupled with highly sensitive immune-affinity antibody analysis, a global crotonylation proteome analysis of papaya fruit (Carica papaya L.) was performed. In total, 2,120 proteins with 5,995 lysine crotonylation sites were discovered, among which eight conserved motifs were identified. Bioinformatic analysis linked crotonylated proteins to multiple metabolic pathways, including biosynthesis of antibiotics, carbon metabolism, biosynthesis of amino acids, and glycolysis. particularly, 40 crotonylated enzymes involved in various pathways of amino acid metabolism were identified, suggesting a potential conserved function for crotonylation in the regulation of amino acid metabolism. Numerous crotonylation sites were identified in proteins involved in the hormone signaling and cell wall-related pathways. Our comprehensive crotonylation proteome indicated diverse functions for lysine crotonylation in papaya.

A qualitative proteome-wide lysine crotonylation profiling of papaya (Carica papaya L.)

Lysine crotonylation of histone proteins is a recently-identified post-translational modification with multiple cellular functions. However, no information about lysine crotonylation of non-histone proteins in fruit cells is available. Using high-resolution LC-MS/MS coupled with highly sensitive immune-affinity antibody analysis, a global crotonylation proteome analysis of papaya fruit (Carica papaya L.) was performed. In total, 2,120 proteins with 5,995 lysine crotonylation sites were discovered, among which eight conserved motifs were identified. Bioinformatic analysis linked crotonylated proteins to multiple metabolic pathways, including biosynthesis of antibiotics, carbon metabolism, biosynthesis of amino acids, and glycolysis. particularly, 40 crotonylated enzymes involved in various pathways of amino acid metabolism were identified, suggesting a potential conserved function for crotonylation in the regulation of amino acid metabolism. Numerous crotonylation sites were identified in proteins involved in the hormone signaling and cell wall-related pathways. Our comprehensive crotonylation proteome indicated diverse functions for lysine crotonylation in papaya.

Correction: Total synthesis of natural products via iridium catalysis

Correction for ‘Total synthesis of natural products via iridium catalysis’ by Changchun Yuan et al., Org. Chem. Front., 2018, 5, 106–131.

Total synthesis of natural productsviairidium catalysis

An overview of the highlights in total synthesis of natural products using iridium as a catalyst is given.

Comparative transcriptomic analyses of normal and malformed flowers in sugar apple (Annona squamosa L.) to identify the differential expressed genes between normal and malformed flowers

BACKGROUND

Sugar apple (Annona squamosa L.), a popular fruit with high medicinal and nutritional properties, is widely cultivated in tropical South Asia and America. The malformed flower is a major cause for a reduction in production of sugar apple. However, little information is available on the differences between normal and malformed flowers of sugar apple.

RESULTS

To gain a comprehensive perspective on the differences between normal and malformed flowers of sugar apple, cDNA libraries from normal and malformation flowers were prepared independently for Illumina sequencing. The data generated a total of 70,189,896 reads that were integrated and assembled into 55,097 unigenes with a mean length of 783 bp. A large number of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified. Among these DEGs, 701 flower development-associated transcript factor encoding genes were included. Furthermore, a large number of flowering- and hormone-related DEGs were also identified, and most of these genes were down-regulated expressed in the malformation flowers. The expression levels of 15 selected genes were validated using quantitative-PCR. The contents of several endogenous hormones were measured. The malformed flowers displayed lower endogenous hormone levels compared to the normal flowers.

CONCLUSIONS

The expression data as well as hormone levels in our study will serve as a comprehensive resource for investigating the regulation mechanism involved in floral organ development in sugar apple.

Genome-wide analysis and characterization of Aux/IAA family genes related to fruit ripening in papaya (Carica papaya L.)

Background

Auxin/indole-3-acetic acid (Aux/IAA) family genes encode short-lived nuclear proteins that mediate the responses of auxin-related genes and are involved in several plant developmental and growth processes. However, how Aux/IAA genes function in the fruit development and ripening of papaya (Carica papaya L.) is largely unknown.

Results

In this study, a comprehensive identification and a distinctive expression analysis of 18 C. papaya Aux/IAA (CpIAA) genes were performed using newly updated papaya reference genome data. The Aux/IAA gene family in papaya is slightly smaller than that in Arabidopsis, but all of the phylogenetic subfamilies are represented. Most of the CpIAA genes are responsive to various phytohormones and expressed in a tissues-specific manner. To understand the putative biological functions of the CpIAA genes involved in fruit development and ripening, quantitative real-time PCR was used to test the expression profiling of CpIAA genes at different stages. Furthermore, an IAA treatment significantly delayed the ripening process in papaya fruit at the early stages. The expression changes of CpIAA genes in ACC and 1-MCP treatments suggested a crosstalk between auxin and ethylene during the fruit ripening process of papaya.

Conclusions

Our study provided comprehensive information on the Aux/IAA family in papaya, including gene structures, phylogenetic relationships and expression profiles. The involvement of CpIAA gene expression changes in fruit development and ripening gives us an opportunity to understand the roles of auxin signaling in the maturation of papaya reproductive organs.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12864-017-3722-6) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Invited Review Article: Tip modification methods for tip-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (TERS) and colloidal probe technique: A 10 year update (2006-2016) review

Engineering atomic force microscopy tips for reliable tip enhanced Raman spectroscopy (TERS) and colloidal probe technique are becoming routine practices in many labs. In this 10 year update review, various new tip modification methods developed over the past decade are briefly reviewed to help researchers select the appropriate method. The perspective is put in a large context to discuss the opportunities and challenges in this area, including novel combinations of seemingly different methods, potential applications of some methods which were not originally intended for TERS tip fabrication, and the problems of high cost and poor reproducibility of tip fabrication.

Identification, Expression and IAA-Amide Synthetase Activity Analysis of Gretchen Hagen 3 in Papaya Fruit (Carica papaya L.) during Postharvest Process

Auxin plays essential roles in plant development. Gretchen Hagen 3 (GH3) genes belong to a major auxin response gene family and GH3 proteins conjugate a range of acylsubstrates to alter the levels of hormones. Currently, the role of GH3 genes in postharvest physiological regulation of ripening and softening processes in papaya fruit is unclear. In this study, we identified seven CpGH3 genes in a papaya genome database. The CpGH3.1a, CpGH3.1b, CpGH3.5, CpGH3.6, and CpGH3.9 proteins were identified as indole-3-acetic acid (IAA)-specific amido synthetases. We analyzed the changes in IAA-amido synthetase activity using aspartate as a substrate for conjugation and found a large increase (over 5-fold) during the postharvest stages. Ascorbic acid (AsA) application can extend the shelf life of papaya fruit. Our data showed that AsA treatment regulates postharvest fruit maturation processes by promoting endogenous IAA levels. Our findings demonstrate the important role of GH3 genes in the regulation of auxin-associated postharvest physiology in papaya.

Transcriptome Analysis and Identification of Genes Associated with Floral Transition and Flower Development in Sugar Apple (Annona squamosa L.)

Sugar apple (Annona squamosa L.) is a semi-deciduous subtropical tree that progressively sheds its leaves in the spring. However, little information is available on the mechanism involved in flower developmental pattern. To gain a global perspective on the floral transition and flower development of sugar apple, cDNA libraries were prepared independently from inflorescent meristem and three flowering stages. Illumina sequencing generated 107,197,488 high quality reads that were assembled into 71,948 unigenes, with an average sequence length of 825.40 bp. Among the unigenes, various transcription factor families involved in floral transition and flower development were elucidated. Furthermore, a Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway enrichment analysis revealed that unigenes exhibiting differential expressions were involved in various phytohormone signal transduction events and circadian rhythms. In addition, 147 unigenes exhibiting sequence similarities to known flowering-related genes from other plants were differentially expressed during flower development. The expression patterns of 20 selected genes were validated using quantitative-PCR. The expression data presented in our study is the most comprehensive dataset available for sugar apple so far and will serve as a resource for investigating the genetics of the flowering process in sugar apple and other Annona species.

Genome-wide identification and characterization of auxin response factor (ARF) family genes related to flower and fruit development in papaya (Carica papaya L.)

Background

Auxin and auxin signaling are involved in a series of developmental processes in plants. Auxin Response Factors (ARFs) is reported to modulate the expression of target genes by binding to auxin response elements (AuxREs) and influence the transcriptional activation of down-stream target genes. However, how ARF genes function in flower development and fruit ripening of papaya (Carica papaya L.) is largely unknown. In this study, a comprehensive characterization and expression profiling analysis of 11 C. papaya ARF (CpARF) genes was performed using the newly updated papaya reference genome data.

Results

We analyzed CpARF expression patterns at different developmental stages. CpARF1, CpARF2, CpARF4, CpARF5, and CpARF10 showed the highest expression at the initial stage of flower development, but decreased during the following developmental stages. CpARF6 expression increased during the developmental process and reached its peak level at the final stage of flower development. The expression of CpARF1 increased significantly during the fruit ripening stages. Many AuxREs were included in the promoters of two ethylene signaling genes (CpETR1 and CpETR2) and three ethylene-synthesis-related genes (CpACS1, CpACS2, and CpACO1), suggesting that CpARFs might be involved in fruit ripening via the regulation of ethylene signaling.

Conclusions

Our study provided comprehensive information on ARF family in papaya, including gene structures, chromosome locations, phylogenetic relationships, and expression patterns. The involvement of CpARF gene expression changes in flower and fruit development allowed us to understand the role of ARF-mediated auxin signaling in the maturation of reproductive organs in papaya.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12864-015-2182-0) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

An entry to vinylcyclopropane through palladium-catalyzed intramolecular cyclopropanation of alkenes with unstabilized allylic tosylhydrazones

Intramolecular cyclopropanation of unstabilized allylic tosylhydrazones with different alkenes was developed in the presence of a Pd catalyst.

Asymmetric total synthesis of onoseriolide, bolivianine, and isobolivianine

In this article, we describe our efforts on the total synthesis of bolivianine (1) and isobolivianine (2), involving the synthesis of onoseriolide (3). The first generation synthesis of bolivianine was completed in 21 steps by following a chiral resolution strategy. Based on the potential biogenetic relationship between bolivianine (1), onoseriolide (3), and β-(E)-ocimene (8), the second generation synthesis of bolivianine was biomimetically achieved from commercially available (+)-verbenone in 14 steps. The improved total synthesis features an unprecedented palladium-catalyzed intramolecular cyclopropanation through an allylic metal carbene, for the construction of the ABC tricyclic system, and a Diels-Alder/intramolecular hetero-Diels-Alder (DA/IMHDA) cascade for installation of the EFG tricyclic skeleton with the correct stereochemistry. Transformation from bolivianine to isobolivianine was facilitated in the presence of acid. The biosynthetic mechanism and the excellent regio- and endo selectivities in the cascade are well supported by theoretical chemistry based on the DFT calculations.

Bioinspired total synthesis of bolivianine: a Diels-Alder/intramolecular hetero-Diels-Alder cascade approach

We report the first total synthesis of bolivanine in a 14-step pathway involving the synthesis of onoseriolide. Our synthesis features a palladium-catalyzed intramolecular cyclopropanation involving an allylic metal carbene and a Diels-Alder/intramolecular hetero-Diels-Alder cascade, allowing the single-step assembly of a tricyclic system with proper configuration. The synthetic efforts validate our modified biogenetic hypothesis and allow us to confirm the absolute configuration of bolivianine.

Solid state 27Al NMR investigation of Knight shift tensors of LnAl2 (Ln = Y, La and Lu) and correlation with DFT calculations

The atomic and electronic structures of LnAl(2) (Ln=Y, La and Lu) on Al sites were characterized by (27)Al solid state NMR spectroscopy. (27)Al isotropic metallic shifts have been determined in these cubic laves phases under both static and magic angle spinning (MAS) conditions. Based on band structure calculations, we found a strong correlation of (27)Al isotropic metallic shifts and s character of the density of states at the Fermi level on Al sites. We also found tetrahedral distortion of Al centered clusters, which can be well characterized by quadruple coupling constants and Knight shift anisotropy.

NMR signature of evolution of ductile-to-brittle transition in bulk metallic glasses

The mechanical properties of monolithic metallic glasses depend on the structures at atomic or subnanometer scales, while a clear correlation between mechanical behavior and structures has not been well established in such amorphous materials. In this work, we find a clear correlation of (27)Al NMR isotropic shifts with a microalloying induced ductile-to-brittle transition at ambient temperature in bulk metallic glasses, which indicates that the (27)Al NMR isotropic shift can be regarded as a structural signature to characterize plasticity for this metallic glass system. The study provides a compelling approach for investigating and understanding the mechanical properties of metallic glasses from the point of view of electronic structure.

Total synthesis of (±)-chloranthalactone A

A total synthesis of (±)-chloranthalactone A was completed. It features substrate-controlled epoxidation of ketone and highly diastereoselective intramolecular cyclopropanation to construct the cis, trans-3/5/6 tricyclic skeleton.

Isolation and characterization of phenolic compounds from the leaves of Salix matsudana

A bioassay-guided in vitro screen has revealed that a 70% methanol extract of the leaves of Salix matsudana shows considerable inhibitory activity against cyclooxygenases (COX-1 and COX-2). A subsequent phytochemical study led to the isolation of a new flavonoid, matsudone A (1), together with five known flavonoids--luteolin (2), isoquercitrin (3), 7-methoxyflavone (4), luteolin 7-O-glucoside (5), 4',7-dihydroxyflavone (6)--and two phenolic glycosides, leonuriside A (7) and piceoside (8). Their structures were elucidated on the basis of extensive 1D- and 2D-NMR studies, high resolution ESI mass spectroscopic analyses and comparisons with literature data. The isolated compounds 1-8 were tested for their inhibitory activities against COX-1 and COX-2. Compounds 1, 5 and 6 were found to have potent inhibitory effect on COX-2 and compounds 3-5 exhibited moderate inhibition against COX-1.

Whole-body positron emission tomography with 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose is an effective method to detect extra-pelvic recurrence in uterine sarcomas

PURPOSE OF INVESTIGATION

To assess the clinical use of F-18-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (FDG-PET) in the post-therapy surveillance of uterine sarcoma.

METHODS

Eight whole-body FDG-PET studies were performed in seven women with previously treated uterine sarcoma. Conventional image studies (computed tomography) and physical examinations were performed for follow-up. All FDG-PET studies were indicated to localize suspected recurrences noted by conventional methods.

RESULTS

The per case sensitivity of the FDG-PET studies and CT scans was 85.7% (6/7) and 100% (7/7), respectively (p = 0.174). FDG-PET was able to detect seven extrapelvic metastastic sites below the diaphragm (7/7, sensitivity: 100%), including the liver, spleen, paraaortic lymph node, spine and paracolic gutter, as well as pulmonary lesions in five patients, while the CT scan detected only three lesions (3/7, sensitivity: 42.9%; p = 0.070). FDG-PET detected only four recurrent pelvic lesions (4/6) and CT scan detected six (6/6) recurrent pelvic lesions (66.7% vs 100%, p = 0.455).

CONCLUSIONS

The FDG-PET showed a better detection rate than the abdominal CT scan for extrapelvic metastatic lesions and a similar detection rate as well as abdominal CT scan. FDG-PET can serve as a useful detection tool for patients with uterine sarcomas because nearly 80% of recurrence involve an extrapelvic site.

Autofluorescence reveals menstrual phase in the endometrium

OBJECTIVE

Tissue contains fluorophores that autofluoresce without additional dye or photosensitizer with the appropriate light excitation. This technique has been widely applied for discrimination between normal and precancerous tissue. The aim of this study was to explore the capability and reliability of autofluorescence phase determination in samples of human endometrium.

METHODS

A total of 70 measurement sites from 31 endometrial tissue samples from hysterectomy were enrolled. Xenon light (330 nm) was directed at the endometrial tissue and the resultant autofluorescence intensity recorded. Spectra were then grouped according to the proliferative and secretory phase, with multivariant analysis, partial least square (PLS) and analysis of variance (ANOVA) used for evaluation of the statistical significance of phase determination.

RESULTS

Both proliferative and secretory autofluorescence spectra showed a similar characteristic triple-peak curve shape pattern, however, each of the intensities at the three peaks between the two phases varied markedly (p < 0.01). PLS analysis confirmed that collagen, NADH and FAD autofluorescence were the principle determinants of endometrial spectrum; the sensitivity and specificity of phase determination by autofluorescent was 100% and 97%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Autofluorescence measurement provides real-time information on endometrial phase status and, based on our results, it appears reasonable to suggest that it may be promising as a clinical tool for prompt phase interpretation.

Presumed Stage IA primary epithelial ovarian carcinoma: the role of complete staging surgery

PURPOSE

Proper staging is warranted in any patient with primary epithelial ovarian carcinoma (PEOC), but sometimes it cannot always be performed. The prognosis of patients with and without complete staging surgery is to be determined.

METHODS

We retrospectively evaluated 61 patients with presumed Stage IA PEOC between January 1970 and December 1993. Inclusion criteria were: being referred patients; no ascites; an intact ovarian tumor without extra-spillage or rupture before, during or after operation; conventional regular exploratory laparotomy without urgency; more than a 5-year follow-up, except for recurrent diseases; a detailed pathology review; and no other systemic disease. Tumors of lower malignant potential (LMP) and cystectomy for removing tumor were excluded. Of the 61 patients, 17 patients received a close observation (Group A), and the others (44 patients) received a re-exploratory laparotomy to complete the staging surgery (Group B).

RESULTS

The mean follow-up time was 7.4 years, ranging between 5.4 and 11.1 years, in Group A, and 8.1 years, ranging from 5.6 to 12.7 years, in Group B. Two patients (11.8%) in Group A and seven patients (15.9%) in Group B suffered from recurrence. Two patients finally died of disease, and both were in Group B.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on the observation in this study that the recurrence rate of the two groups was not statistically different, close follow-up for patients with presumed Stage IA EOC, but without complete surgical staging surgery, might be acceptable when these patients are treated with postoperative adjuvant chemotherapy.

Radical hysterectomy: past, present, and future

After an analysis of 3,441 radical hysterectomies performed in our department, we found, after modification of the operative technique in 1983, the more lateral the excision the less the recurrence rate. The recurrence rate for Stage 1b-2a and Stage 2b patients comparing the years before 1983 to the years after decreased to 12.4% from 15.7% (158/1,006 vs 268/2,163; p = 0.009) in Stage 1b-2a and 24.6% from 55.8% (38/68 vs 47/191; p = 0.0007) in Stage 2b, respectively. With the modern trend of aspiring for an easier lifestyle, most physicians practice earlier. Therefore only very few physicians study radical hysterectomy. As the skill of surgery needs a longer period of education and training, it may only interest physicians who work with medical professionals as part of a team at a medical center. In the future, we should provide gynecological residents not only with a training program using the classic textbooks, but also with different points of view on changes and developments in radical hysterectomy. We hope to promote an attitude of offering patients access to different choices and opportunities of therapy. Radical hysterectomy is in fact a treatment option for patients with bulky cervical lesions and Stage 2b in particular.

Cytokeratin-19 associated with apoptosis and chemosensitivity in human cervical cancer cells

Cytokeratins are one group of intermediate filament proteins responsible for the integrity of cell structure, and have been recently reported to play a role in conferring a drug resistance phenotype. MAb Cx-99 is a monoclonal antibody exhibiting the specificity toward its corresponding antigen which was recently identified as the cytokeratin-19 protein. In the present study, we found that the level of cytokeratin-19 in cervical cancer cells could be decreased by incubation of cancer cells with MAb Cx-99. The reduction of cytokeratin-19 level had a killing effect on cervical carcinoma SIHA and HeLa S3 cell lines. The DNA ladder pattern, convoluted nuclei and blebbing morphology were observed with these cells after exposure to MAb Cx-99 for 72 h, suggesting that the cytotoxic mechanism of reduced cytokeratin-19 was mediated by induction of apoptosis. Moreover, the MAb Cx-99 treatment could increase the cytotoxicities of cancer chemotherapeutic agents such as cisplatin and vinblastine to both cervical carcinoma cell lines. The LD80 values were at least 15-fold reduced when cancer cells were treated with cisplatin or vinblastine in the presence of MAb Cx-99. These results suggest that the functional role of cytokeratin-19 was associated with the apoptosis prevention and drug resistance of cervical cancer cells.