Search

Abstract: Mosquito saliva contains a number of immunogenic molecules that can induce allergic reactions in host animals. The oriental tiger mosquito, Aedes togoi (Theobald), feeds on both humans and animals and is also a vector of various pathogenic viruses. However, information on immunogenic antigens in the saliva of this mosquito species is scarce. In this study, we used immunohistochemical staining and confocal microscopy to determine the fine structure of the acini lobes of salivary glands of A. togoi. In addition, we identified proteins from salivary gland extracts that reacted to mouse immunoglobulin E in an immunoblot analysis. At least nine proteins, ranging in size from 10 to 145 kDa, bound to IgEs; a 33 and 57.5 kDa protein showed the strongest binding signal. Our results provide important information on the identities of potential allergens in mosquito saliva. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we examined the antibacterial activity of silver ion exchanged zeolite synthesized from Cheju Scoria. We synthesized zeolite in various NaOH concentrations, but zeolite synthesized in 4 M NaOH was most similar to type A zeolite. Using the synthesized zeolite, we prepared a silver ion exchanged zeolite for studies of antibacterial activity. Antibacterial tests using agar cultures of Escherichia coli ( E. coli), with silver ion exchanged zeolite showed a zone of inhibition colonies bacteria did not grow near silver ion exchanged zeolite. Furthermore, spectrophotometry demonstrated a significantly low absorbance of E. coli culture mediums when silver ion exchanged zeolite was included indicating that E. coli propagation was prevented. Through results of these experiments, we conclude that synthesized products with sodalite crystal can be synthesized from Scoria, and these are suitable to produce silver ion exchanged zeolite with antibacterial activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A method involving iron catalyzed acylative cleavage of cyclic and acyclic ethers with acyl/aroyl chlorides has been studied to produce chloroesters and esters respectively. Examination of the scope revealed that less electron rich alkyl group in unsymmetric, acyclic ether was acylated while the chloride derived from the counterpart moiety was volatile and difficult to isolate. In contrast, α-branched cyclic ethers were converted to the corresponding primary ester and secondary chloride. Steric hindrance of ether also plays an important role in acylative C–O bond cleavage. The mechanism of ether cleavage is proposed to involve a single electron initiated S N 1 dissociative pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The growth of nanocrystalline metal–organic frameworks (nMOFs)around metal nanocrystals (NCs) is useful in controlling the chemistryand metric of metal NCs. In this Letter, we show rare examples ofnMOFs grown in monocrystalline form around metal NCs. Specifically,Pt NCs were subjected to reactions yielding Zr(IV) nMOFs [Zr6O4(OH)4(fumarate)6, MOF-801; Zr6O4(OH)4(BDC)6(BDC = 1,4-benzenedicarboxylate),UiO-66; Zr6O4(OH)4(BPDC)6(BPDC = 4,4′-biphenyldicarboxylate), UiO-67] as a singlecrystal within which the Pt NCs are embedded. These constructs (Pt⊂nMOF)nanocrystalare found to be active in gas-phase hydrogenativeconversion of methylcyclopentane (MCP) and give unusual product selectivity.The Pt⊂nUiO-66 shows selectivity to C6-cyclic hydrocarbonssuch as cyclohexane and benzene that takes place with 100 °Clower temperature than the standard reaction (Pt-on-SiO2). We observe a pore size effect in the nMOF series wherethe small pore of Pt⊂nMOF-801 does not produce the same products,while the larger pore Pt⊂nUiO-67 catalyst provides the sameproducts but with different selectivity. The (Pt⊂nMOF)nanocrystalspent catalyst is found to maintain the originalcrystallinity, and be recyclable without any byproduct residues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/purpose Acne is a skin disease which accompanies pathological and morphological changes. Although acne severity is scored by clinicians based on pathological status, aesthetic aspect of acne symptom is also concerned by patients. This study was conducted to examine the usefulness of a 3 D image analysis method for the cosmetic efficacy evaluation of an anti-acne cream. Methods Twenty-one healthy volunteers with acne lesions were recruited for the study and treated with an 'anti-acne cream' for 4 weeks. Acne symptoms on the facial skin were graded by the visual evaluation of photographs taken before and after the treatment. Skin color of acne lesions was and measured by a spectrophotometer. In addition, a 3 D image analysis system was used to quantify skin surface roughness and acne volumes. Results Both visual and spectrophotometric assessments of acne lesions provided similar results indicating that the cream treatment improved acne symptoms significantly. The 3 D image analysis of acne lesions confirmed that the cream treatment decreased skin surface roughness and acne volumes. Conclusion The current study demonstrated that the 3 D image-based analysis of the skin may be useful for the quantification of acne symptoms of cosmetic relevance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A cold cathode fluorescent lamp (CCFL) and various color spectrum filters were used in the investigation of photoelectric characteristics of hydrogenated amorphous silicon thin film transistor(a-Si:H TFT). From the photo leakage currents of a-Si:H TFT for the transmitted backlights through the various color spectrum filters, it was possible to conclude the photo leakage currents are not directly related to the luminance of the transmitted backlights. The photoelectric characteristics were well described in terms of photon energy spectrums calculated from the photon energy and the energy transmittance of backlight through the color spectrum filters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the fabrication of transparent conductive oxide thin film transistor (TFT), an atomic layer deposited (ALD) zinc oxide (ZnO) and a cross-linked poly-vinyl-alcohol (c-PVA) were each used as active layer and gate insulating layer on poly-ethylene (PET) substrate respectively. Considering the transmittance and the deposition rate of the ALD ZnO at a low temperature without any damage on PET substrate, the ZnO layer was deposited at a temperature of 120°C on a spin-coated c-PVA layer. From the atomic force microscope (AFM) images, it was possible to conclude that the surface morphologies of ZnO deposited on a c-PVA layer was not inferior to those of ZnO deposited on bare-Si and that the c-PVA can be used as a gate insulator at 120°C. The fabricated ZnO TFT showed good electrical characteristics such as the mobility of 0.1 cm2/V · s, on-off current ratio of 4.5 × 104. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) derived from bone marrow are an important tool in tissue engineering and cell-based therapies because of their multipotent capacity. Majority of studies on MSCs have investigated the roles of growth factors, cytokines, and hormones. Antioxidants such as ascorbic acid can be used to expand MSCs while preserving their differentiation ability. Moreover, ascorbic acid can also stimulate MSC proliferation without reciprocal loss of phenotype and differentiation potency. In this study, we evaluated the effects of ascorbic acid on the proliferation, differentiation, extracellular matrix (ECM) secretion of MSCs. The MSCs were cultured in media containing various concentrations (0–500 μM) of l-ascorbate-2-phosphate (Asc-2-P) for 2 weeks, following which they were differentiated into adipocytes and osteoblasts. Ascorbic acid stimulated ECM secretion (collagen and glycosaminoglycan) and cell proliferation. Moreover, the phenotypes of the experimental groups as well as the differentiation potential of MSCs remained unchanged. The apparent absence of decreased cell density or morphologic change is consistent with the toxicity observed with 5–250 μM concentrations of Asc-2-P. The results demonstrate that MSC proliferation or differentiation depends on ascorbic acid concentration. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A spectrophotometric assay to determine peptide transport has been developed. Using two chromogenic peptide mimetics, l-phenylalanyl-l-2-sulfanilylglycine (PSG) and l-phenylalanyl-l-3-thiaphenylalanine (PSP), the peptide transport patterns in individual cell species can be evaluated effectively. After the addition of PSG to a HeLa cell suspension, sulfanilic acid accumulated progressively inside, but not outside, the cells, demonstrating that PSG was transported wholly intact. The addition of PSP to the same cell suspension was followed immediately by extracellular thiophenol production. Measurement of the rate of thiophenol release thereby provided direct determination of PSP transport. The thiophenol release was consistent with Michaelis–Menten kinetics, with a K m of 0.016mM and a V max of 5.07nmol/min (1×106 cells/ml, pH 7.4, 37°C). The resulting kinetic constants estimated were in agreement with values determined by single-substrate enzyme kinetics. Using PSP, transport kinetics of various dipeptides was examined by competitive spectrophotometry. As a result, dipeptides tested could be ranked in order of kinetic power for their transport. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Rosa rugosa is a medicinal plant known for its potential anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-cancer, and antimicrobial benefits. The pharmacological effects of Rosa rugosa extract on hair loss have not yet been documented. This research sought to assess the inhibitory effects and mechanisms of action of Rosa rugosa water extract (RWE) in a mouse model of dihydrotestosterone (DHT)-induced alopecia. The study was conducted using C57BL/6 mice, which were assigned to five groups: control, DHT-treated, Rosa rugosa water extract (RWE) at doses of 25 mg/kg and 100 mg/kg body weight, and bicalutamide-treated. To induce hair loss, dihydrotestosterone (1 mg/day per body weight) was administered via intraperitoneal injections, and dorsal hair removal was timed to align with the telogen phase. Each group received oral treatments for a period of 23 days. In this study, we assessed hair growth activity, examined histological changes, and performed immunoblot analysis. We noted improvements in hair length and thickness. Additionally, the protein expression of growth factors associated with hair growth, including vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), epidermal growth factor (EGF), and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), showed significant increases in the group treated with RWE. Additionally, treatment with RWE suppressed the protein expression of hair growth inhibitory factors, including dickkopf WNT signaling pathway inhibitor 1 (DKK1) and interleukin (IL)-6. Moreover, hair growth regulatory pathway related factors, including ERK, AKT, and GSK-3β, were activated. These findings indicate that RWE could serve as a promising natural therapy for preventing hair loss by enhancing the production of factors that promote hair growth while inhibiting those that suppress it. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Methanolic extracts of 15 traditional medicines used to treat Toxoplasma gondii were tested in vitro for their anti-T. gondii activity and cytotoxicity. The median effective concentration (EC50) values for the herbal extracts ranged from 0.11mg/mL to 2.28mg/mL. Significant anti-T. gondii RH strain activity was observed with Zingiber officinale extracts (EC50 =0.18mg/mL), which displayed a highly selective toxicity (selectivity=10.1). Sophora flavescens Aiton extracts also showed high anti-T. gondii activity (EC50 =0.20mg/mL) and a high selective toxicity (4.6). This indicates that Z. officinale and S. flavescens Aiton extracts may be sources of new anti-T. gondii compounds. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Microbes are critical contributors in main areas of biotechnology, including green, red, and white biotechnology. This is why the importance of the preservation of microbial resources cannot be emphasized enough. Culture collections are repositories not only for the preservation and maintenance of a large variety of microbial resources and the associated data but also for their distribution in a quality-controlled manner. The mission of culture collections facilitates and supports utilization of microbial resources for research, education, and industrial purposes. Led by the World Federation for Culture Collections, an international organization committed to fostering the activities of culture collections of microorganisms and cell lines, more than 850 culture collections from 80 countries and regions work together to ensure the perpetuation of microbial resources. In addition, domestic networks, such as Japan Society for Culture Collections and United States Culture Collection Network along with regional networks for Europe, Latin America, and Asia thrive to ensure the long-term viability of microbial resources. The Republic of Korea recently took the first step in networking through the coordination of six ministries which house nine national microbial culture collections. With an explosion in microbiome research and a dramatic increase in the number of microbiome samples, the considerable challenge of culture collections will therefore be implementing the biobanking infrastructure of microbiome samples. Creating a domestic network of national culture collections is a key factor in efficiently and comprehensively managing nation-led microbiome research projects, particularly resulting microbiome samples. In this context, this review aims to provide an overview of microbial culture collection network and their future role to address the challenge in the microbiome era. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Regioselective cleavage of cyclic and acyclic ethers in the presence of acid chlorides yields chloro-esters and nonchlorinated esters, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studies have been focused on natural products with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory activities, such as fucoidan. Many in vivo studies have evaluated the effect of fucoidan on tumor growth, diabetes, obesity, ischemia reperfusion, and oxidative stress. However, the effects of fucoidan on bacteria-induced gingival inflammation and periodontitis have not been reported. We previously characterized the anti-inflammatory effect of fucoidan in vitro . Here, we confirmed the anti-inflammatory activity of fucoidan in a macrophage cell line in terms of its inhibition of the expression of inflammatory mediators and pro-inflammatory cytokines. Additionally, we confirmed the ability of fucoidan to inhibit gingival inflammation, expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines, and neutrophil recruitment in the gingival tissue of mice injected with LPS prepared from P. gingivalis . Interestingly, however, fucoidan did not inhibit the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines in a P. gingivalis -infected mouse model of periodontitis. Additionally, fucoidan treatment did not lead to clearance of P. gingivalis or improvement of P. gingivalis infection-mediated bone loss in the periodontitis model. We conclude that fucoidan exerts anti-inflammatory effects in vitro and in vivo , together with a limited antibacterial effect in vivo . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background The Atopic Dermatitis Antecubital Severity ( ADAS) score is a new objective scale for the assessment of the severity of atopic dermatitis ( AD). It is calculated by multiplying the intensity of inflammatory signs by the size of an antecubital eczema lesion. Aim To test the validity, reliability, and sensitivity to changes of the ADAS score compared with those of the Eczema Area and Severity Index ( EASI) score. Methods Forty patients with AD were enrolled and treated with a moisturizer. At baseline, and in weeks 1 and 2, two independent evaluators measured the ADAS score, the EASI score, and the investigator's global assessment score rated on a six-point scale. Results The ADAS score showed a higher validity than the EASI score. The superiority of the ADAS to the EASI was prominent in mild AD. Inter-evaluator reliability was excellent in both the ADAS score and the EASI. The sensitivity to changes was higher in the ADAS score than in the EASI score. Conclusions The ADAS score may be used as a simple scoring system with good validity, reliability, and sensitivity to changes, especially in patients with mild-to-moderate AD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Catalyst consisting of hemin-encapsulated MOF and CNT (Hemin⊂MIL-88-NH 2 /CNT) is introduced. • Hemin⊂MIL-88-NH 2 /CNT shows higher catalytic activity than heme protein catalysts. • The sensitivity of Hemin⊂MIL-88-NH 2 /CNT was 0.538 μA μM−1 cm−2. • Hemin⊂MIL-88-NH 2 based catalyst can be used for the H 2 O 2 sensors. In this study, hemin that has excellent catalytic activity is adopted as a catalyst component and other materials, such as metal organic framework (MOF) and carbon nanotube (CNT), are further used to alleviate drawbacks of hemin, such as location issue and molecular aggregation. Based on that, a new catalyst consisting of hemin-encapsulated MOF and CNT is developed (Hemin⊂MIL-88-NH 2 /CNT). To evaluate its catalytic activity, colorimetric and electrochemical evaluations are conducted. When colorimetric method is used, Hemin⊂MIL-88-NH 2 /CNT shows good catalytic activity due to proper interaction between water media and amine bond of MOF. In electrochemical evaluations, Hemin⊂MIL-88-NH 2 /CNT has high sensitivity (0.538 μAμM−1cm−2) and low detection limit (0.06 μM) at 0.5–203 μM (R2 = 0.999). Even in amperometric response tests, when 10 μM H 2 O 2 is injected, Hemin⊂MIL-88-NH 2 /CNT shows a better response than other heme protein- based catalysts ((Hb, Mb and HRP)/CNT) by 2.06–3.26 times. In terms of stability, its catalytic activity is well preserved even under harsh pH and temperature conditions for a long time (89.5% of the initial value after 15 days). With that, it is confirmed that the Hemin⊂MIL-88-NH 2 /CNT as the catalyst for use in H 2 O 2 sensors is attractive and better than other heme proteins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multimetallic electrocatalysts have shown great potential to improve electrocatalytic performance, but their deteriorations in activity and durability are yet to be overcome. Here, metal‐organic fragments with adhesive excipient to realize high activity with good durability in oxygen evolution reaction (OER) are developed. First, a leaf‐like zeolitic–imidazolate framework (ZIF‐L) is synthesized. Then, ionized species in hydrogen plasma attack preferentially the organic linkers of ZIF‐L to derive cobalt–imidazole fragments (CIFs) as adhesive excipient, while they are designed to retain the coordinated cobalt nodes. Moreover, the vacant coordination sites at cobalt nodes and the unbound nitrogen at organic linkers induce high porosity and conductivity. The CIFs serve to stably impregnate trimetallic FeNiMo electrocatalysts (CIF:FeNiMo), and CIF:FeNiMo containing Fe contents of 22% and hexavalent Mo contents show to enable high activity with low overpotentials (203 mV at 10 mA cm−2 and 238 mV at 100 mA cm−2) in OER. The near O K‐edge extended X‐ray absorption fine structure proves further that high activity for OER originates from the partially filled eg orbitals. Additionally, CIF:FeNiMo exhibit good durability, as demonstrated by high activity retention during at least 45 days in OER. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) have introduced heterogeneity in their homogeneous matrix to create new functions that cannot be realized by each MOF individually. In this study, we chemically combined two different MOFs (UiO‐66 and HKUST‐1) in granola‐type granules (termed as HKUST‐1∧UiO‐66) to create a heterojunction of pores in nanocrystalline particles. The structure, morphology, elemental composition, and pore environment were characterized to confirm that two types of pores are in conjunction all over the HKUST‐1∧UiO‐66 granules. We found that the HKUST‐1∧UiO‐66 granules showed an enhanced CO2 sorption capacity than its constituents due to the complexity and the heterojunction of pores inside. Moreover, the HKUST‐1∧UiO‐66 granules present four and two times higher formaldehyde removal capacity than those of the HKUST‐1 and UiO‐66 samples, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the tunable magnetic exchange interactions between nearest neighbor moment carriers by exchange linker length or metal ions, metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) in general, and MOF‐74 in particular, have promising magnetic properties for novel industrial applications such as magnetic switchers, sensors, and multifunction devices in molecular spintronics. Hence, MOF‐74‐M [M2(C8H2O6)] (M = Fe, Co, Ni) possessing a 1D channel is prepared and experimentally examined to describe its diverse magnetic properties, depending on the metal cluster used. By exchanging the metal ion (Fe, Co, and Ni) in the metal cluster, the magnetic state of MOF‐74 is changed from ferromagnetic or antiferromagnetic to superparamagnetic. This phenomenon can be also confirmed by alternating current (AC)/direct current (DC) magnetic susceptibility and field‐dependent magnetization. Therefore, the intrinsic magnetic properties of MOF‐74‐M such as blocking temperature, Néel temperature, and interaction energy between metals in magnetic susceptibility tests can be elucidated. Moreover, the superparamagnetic behavior in this system is also observed in M–H curves and magnetic dynamics as single‐chain magnets. It is believed that MOF‐74‐M can be utilized for applications in which superconducting materials are required (e.g., memory‐storage devices). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sub‐nanometric particles (SNPs) of atomic cluster sizes have shown great promise in many fields such as full atom‐to‐atom utilization, but their precise production and stabilization at high mass loadings remain a great challenge. As a solution to overcome this challenge, a strategy allowing synthesis and preservation of SNPs at high mass loadings within multishell hollow metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) is demonstrated. First, alternating water‐decomposable and water‐stable MOFs are stacked in succession to build multilayer MOFs. Next, using controlled hydrogen bonding affinity, isolated water molecules are selectively sieved through the hydrophobic nanocages of water‐stable MOFs and transferred one by one to water‐decomposable MOFs. The transmission of water molecules via controlled hydrogen bonding affinity through the water‐stable MOF layers is a key step to realize SNPs from various types of alternating water‐decomposable and water‐stable layers. This process transforms multilayer MOFs into SNP‐embedded multishell hollow MOFs. Additionally, the multishell stabilizes SNPs by π‐backbonding allowing high conductivity to be achieved via the hopping mechanism, and hollow interspaces minimize transport resistance. These features, as demonstrated using SNP‐embedded multishell hollow MOFs with up to five shells, lead to high electrochemical performances including high volumetric capacities and low overpotentials in Li–O2 batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The first global workshop on implementation of the WHO guidelines on procedures and data requirements for changes to approved biotherapeutic products adopted by the WHO Expert Committee in 2018 was held in June 2019. The workshop participants recognized that the principles based on sound science and the potential for risk, as described in the WHO Guidelines on post-approval changes, which constitute the global standard for product life-cycle management are providing clarity and helping national regulatory authorities in establishing guidance while improving time-lines for an efficient regulation of products. Consequently, the regulatory situation for post-approval changes and guideline implementation is changing but there is a disparity between different countries. While the guidelines are gradually being implemented in some countries and also being considered in other countries, the need for regional workshops and further training on post-approval changes was a common theme reiterated by many participants. Given the complexities relating to post-approval changes in different regions/countries, there was a clear understanding among all participants that an efficient approach for product life-cycle management at a national level is needed to ensure faster availability of high standard, safe and efficacious medicines to patients as per the World Health Assembly Resolution 67.21. • WHO Guidelines constitute the global standard for product life-cycle management. • The Guidelines provide principles based on sound science and potential for risk. • The Guidelines help regulatory authorities in establishing national guidance. • Efficient approach for product life-cycle management at a national level is needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new fluorescent probe L fusing the rhodamine B scaffold with 2H‐benzo[b][1,4]oxazin‐3(4H)‐one moiety has been developed and applied as an acidic pH sensor. The ultraviolet (UV) and fluorescence spectra of the probe at different pH values were investigated in B–R buffer/MeOH (v: v = 3: 7). This probe showed increase of both the UV–Vis absorption and fluorescence emission from alkaline/neutral to acidic condition, reaching a strongest intensity at pH 2.13, but the intensities decreased when the pH decreased to 1.83. The color variation along the pH changes proved that the probe L can be used as a low‐cost optical sensor for the naked eye detection of proton in the present buffer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • A multi-dye (7-amino-4-methylcoumarin/resorufin) containing MOF was developed. • Dyes⊂MOF-801 enabled Cr 2 O 7 2− detection in the presence of interfering ions. • Dyes⊂MOF-801 showed selective removal of Cr 2 O 7 2− of 83 mg/g within 3 min. • Complete Cr 2 O 7 2− removal was confirmed immediately using ratiometric detection. Abstract Among the heavy metals commonly found in wastewater, Cr 2 O 7 2− is considered the most hazardous due to its high toxicity, carcinogenicity, and mutagenicity. Nevertheless, detection and removal of Cr 2 O 7 2− remains a serious challenge as it competes with other metal cations and anions in wastewater. Herein, self-calibration of the emission intensities at two different wavelengths was introduced to microporous media to facilitate the ratiometric detection and simultaneous removal of Cr 2 O 7 2− in the presence of excess interfering ions. Specifically, a multi-dye (7-amino-4-methylcoumarin and resorufin) containing metal-organic framework-801 (Dyes⊂MOF-801) was developed and tested for the detection and removal of Cr 2 O 7 2− from wastewater. Dyes⊂MOF-801 exhibited accurate detection of Cr 2 O 7 2− with high sensitivity in the presence of a 260-fold excess of potentially interfering ions. Its maximum removal capacity was 83 mg/g and was achieved within 3 min, even in the presence of excess metal ions and 10-fold excess concentrations of anions. In addition, the residual concentration of Cr 2 O 7 2− was simultaneously checked using ratiometric detection of Dyes⊂MOF-801, so that the removal of Cr 2 O 7 2− could be immediately confirmed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Synthesis of a variety of novel Z/E N‐(1‐chlorovinyl)formamides through Vilsmeier–Haack reaction starting from 2‐phenoxyethanamides with POCl3/DMF has been accomplished. The reactions introduced chlorine atom to the Cα‐position and phenoxy substitutions to the Cβ‐position of N‐vinylformamides, and the Z/E isomers of N‐(1‐chlorovinyl)formamide were isolated and characterized. In most cases, Z/E N‐(1‐chlorovinyl)formamides were both obtained; however, for the steric hindrance reason, the reaction starting from cyclohexylamine afforded sole Z isomer of N‐(1‐chloro‐2‐(2,4‐dichlorophenoxy)vinyl)‐N‐cyclohexylformamide as the highly regioselective product. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract In the present study, we investigated the diversity of pathogenic fungal strain isolated from infected Korean ginseng root rot and tested their morphology, molecular characterization, and pathogenic impact. From the results, we have identified different shapes of fungal conidia such as cylindrical, conical, bell and convex shape. The molecular identification of fungal strains was characterized based on partial ITS sequence analysis and it was published in National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Among them totally eleven strains, eight were pathogens, and three were endophytic strains. Our conclusions suggest that pathogenic fungi have different communities and structures than non-pathogenic fungi. Graphical abstract Image 1 Highlights • Eleven different pathogenic fungi species have been screened from the ginseng root rot. • The isolate have been characterized by molecular approach and sequence were submitted in NCBI. • Among eight stains have higher pathogenic impact. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract In the present study, we investigated the diversity of pathogenic fungal strain isolated from infected Korean ginseng root rot and tested their morphology, molecular characterization, and pathogenic impact. From the results, we have identified different shapes of fungal conidia such as cylindrical, conical, bell and convex shape. The molecular identification of fungal strains was characterized based on partial ITS sequence analysis and it was published in National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Among them totally eleven strains, eight were pathogens, and three were endophytic strains. Our conclusions suggest that pathogenic fungi have different communities and structures than non-pathogenic fungi. Graphical abstract Image 1 Highlights • Eleven different pathogenic fungi species have been screened from the ginseng root rot. • The isolate have been characterized by molecular approach and sequence were submitted in NCBI. • Among eight stains have higher pathogenic impact. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract We describe the rules for combining MOFs with molecular dyes via three different synthetic approaches, and the roles of the MOFs in various applications, including sensors, light emission lasers, and bio-related applications based on molecular dyes. Abstract Molecular dyes are popular in a variety of fields but present challenges that limit their use in a wide range of applications. Recently, the combination of molecular dyes with metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) has been considered as a promising solution to overcome these challenges, as the MOFs impart porosity to protect the constituent molecules, rigidity that stabilizes their structures, flexibility in designing their exterior and interior structures, and crystallinity that holds the molecules in a periodic arrangement. In this review, we describe the rules for combining MOFs with molecular dyes via three different synthetic approaches, and the roles of the MOFs in various applications, including sensors, light emission lasers, and bio-related applications based on molecular dyes. In particular, the key features of MOFs, namely, their porosity, designability, crystallinity, and robustness, are highlighted in conjunction with their effect in each molecular dye-based application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ginseng ( Panax ginseng ) is one of the most common medicinal herbs in Korea and the production of ginseng is affected by root rot diseases caused by fungal phytopathogens, which remain a threat for profitable agricultural productivity. In this study, seven fungal genera ( Ilyonectria sp. , Neurospora sp. , Cladosporium sp. , Eutypella sp. , Aschersonia sp., and Fusarium sp.) were isolated from infected ginseng root rot samples and examined for pathogenicity. Fungal pathogens were isolated by placing a small piece of infected ginseng root on potato dextrose agar, screened based on colony morphology, and identified based on 18s rRNA sequencing and phylogenetic analysis. Pathogenicity of the isolated fungal strains was evaluated based on pathogen penetration on the host surface that was documented by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). To isolate antagonistic strains, a total of 300 bacterial strains that were isolated from South Korean mine soil were screened using a dual culture assay. On screening, we found two potent antagonistic strains, Pseudomonas aeruginosa (D4) and Bacillus stratosphericus (FW3), that were identified based on molecular characterizations and shown to control isolated root rot fungal pathogens. Both strains were optimized for mycelial growth inhibition tests with different growth media and it was determined that nutrient broth is highly suitable for the antagonistic activity assay. In addition, both antagonistic strains were found to produce various bioactive metabolites. From our findings, the isolated P. aeruginosa and B. stratosphericus strains are excellent candidates to control ginseng root rot caused by pathogenic fungi. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pseudomonas and Bacillus species are attractive due to their potential bio-control application against plant bacterial pathogens . Pseudomonas aeruginosa strain D4 and Bacillus stratosphericus strain FW3 were isolated from mine tailings in South Korea. In these potent bacterial strains, we observed improved antagonistic activity against Pseudomonas syringae DC3000. These strains produced biocatalysts for plant growth promotion, and in vivo examination of Solanum lycopersicum included analysis of disease severity, ion leakage, chlorophyll content, and H 2 O 2 detection. In addition, regulation of the defense genes pathogen-related protein 1a (PR1a) and phenylalanine ammonia lyase (PAL) was compared with treated plants and untreated control plants. The results suggest that these two bacterial strains provide protection against plant pathogens via direct and indirect modes of action and could be used as a bio-control agent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context:Red ginseng (heat-processedPanax ginseng) is a well-known alternative medicine with pharmacological antidiabetic activity. It exerts pharmacological effects through the transformation of saponin into metabolites by the intestinal microbiota. Given that intestinal conditions and intestinal microflora vary among individuals, the pharmacological effects of orally administered red ginseng likely may vary among individuals. Objective:To overcome this variation and produce homogeneously effective red ginseng, we evaluated the antidiabetic effects of probiotic-fermented red ginseng in a mouse model. Materials and methods:The antidiabetic efficacy of orally administered probiotic-fermented red ginseng was assessed in ICR mice after induction of diabetes using streptozotocin (170 mg/kg body weight). Samples were given orally for 8 weeks, and indicators involved in diabetic disorders such as body weight change, water intake, blood glucose, glucose tolerance and various biochemical parameters were determined. Results:Oral administration of probiotic-fermented red ginseng significantly decreased the level of blood glucose of about 62.5% in the fasting state and induced a significant increase in glucose tolerance of about 10.2% compared to the control diabetic mice. Additionally, various indicators of diabetes and biochemical data (e.g., blood glycosylated haemoglobin level, serum concentrations of insulin, and α-amylase activity) showed a significant improvement in the diabetic conditions of the mice treated with probiotic-fermented red ginseng in comparison with those of control diabetic mice. Discussion and conclusion:Our results demonstrate the antidiabetic effects of probiotic-fermented red ginseng in the streptozotocin-induced mouse diabetes model and suggest that probiotic-fermented red ginseng may be a uniformly effective red ginseng product. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Red ginseng ( Panax ginseng C.A. Meyer) is the most widely recognized medicinal herb due to its remedial effects in various disorders, such as cancers, diabetes, and heart problems. In this study, we investigated the anticancer effect of fermented red ginseng extract (f-RGE; provided by Jeonju Biomaterials Institute, Jeonju, South Korea) in a parallel comparison with the effect of nonfermented red ginseng extract (nf-RGE; control) on several cancer cell lines-MCF-7 breast cancer cells, HepG2 hepatocellular carcinoma cells, and reprogrammed MCF-7 cells (mimicking cancer stem cells). Cells were cultured at various concentrations of RGE (from 0.5 up to 5 mg/mL) and their viabilities and proliferative properties were examined. Our data demonstrate the following: (1) nf-RGE inhibited cell viability at ≥1 mg/mL for MCF-7 cells and ≥2 mg/mL for HepG2 cells, (2) in the presence of a carcinogenic agent, 12- O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA), nf-RGE treatment in combination with paclitaxel synergistically decreased MCF-7 as well as HepG2 cell viability, (3) f-RGE (which contained a greater level of Rg3 content) more effectively decreased the viability of MCF-7 and HepG2 cells compared to nf-RGE, and (4) f-RGE appeared more potent for inhibiting cancerous differentiation of reprogrammed MCF-7 cells in a synergistic fashion with paclitaxel, especially in the presence of TPA, compared to nf-RGE. These findings suggest that f-RGE treatment may be more effective for decreasing cancer cell survival by inducing apoptotic cell death and also presumably for preventing cancer stem cell differentiation compared to nf-RGE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Porphyrin‐POSS hybrid: Porphyrin‐POSS molecular hybrid composites (see scheme; POSS = polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxanes) were synthesized and structurally characterized, allowing the realization of truly homogenous dispersion of basic functional building blocks between organic and inorganic components at the molecular level. These materials allow the optimization of aggregation/association behavior and thus the functional optical properties of the porphyrinato zinc compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have been implicated in the pathogenesis and progression of brain tumors. miR-21 is one of the most highly overexpressed miRNAs in glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), and its level of expression correlates with the tumor grade. Programmed cell death 4 (PDCD4) is a well-known miR-21 target and is frequently downregulated in glioblastomas in accordance with increased miR-21 expression. Downregulation of miR-21 or overexpression of PDCD4 can inhibit metastasis. Here, we investigate the role of heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein C1/C2 (hnRNPC) in the metastatic potential of the glioblastoma cell line T98G. hnRNPC bound directly to primary miR-21 (pri-miR-21) and promoted miR-21 expression in T98G cells. Silencing of hnRNPC lowered miR-21 levels, in turn increasing the expression of PDCD4, suppressing Akt and p70S6K activation, and inhibiting migratory and invasive activities. Silencing of hnRNPC reduced cell proliferation and enhanced etoposide-induced apoptosis. In support of a role for hnRNPC in the invasiveness of GBM, highly aggressive U87MG cells showed higher hnRNPC expression levels and hnRNPC abundance in tissue arrays and also showed elevated levels as a function of brain tumor grade. Taken together, our data indicate that hnRNPC controls the aggressiveness of GBM cells through the regulation of PDCD4, underscoring the potential usefulness of hnRNPC as a prognostic and therapeutic marker of GBM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Zinc oxide (ZnO) thin-film transistors (TFTs) with a cross-linked poly(vinyl alcohol) (c-PVA) insulator are fabricated on a polyethersulfone substrate. The ZnO film, formed by atomic layer deposition, shows a polycrystalline hexagonal structure with a band gap energy of about 3.37eV. The fabricated ZnO TFT exhibits a field-effect mobility of 0.38cm2/Vs and a threshold voltage of 0.2V. The hysteresis of the device is mainly caused by trapped electrons at the c-PVA/ZnO interface, whereas the positive threshold voltage shift occurs as a consequence of constant positive gate bias stress after 5000s due to an electron injection from the ZnO film into the c-PVA insulator. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

One of the critical issues hindering the commercialization of lithium–sulfur (Li–S) batteries is the dissolution and migration of soluble polysulfides in electrolyte, which is called the 'shuttle effect'. To address this issue, previous studies have focused on separators featuring specific chemical affinities or physical confinement by porous coating materials. However, there have been no studies on the complex effects of the simultaneous presence of the internal and interparticle spaces of porous materials in Li–S batteries. In this report, the stable Zr-based metal–organic frameworks (MOFs), UiO-66, have been used as a separator coating material to provide interparticle space via size-controlled MOF particles and thermodynamic internal space via amine functionality. The abundant interparticle space promoted mass transport, resulting in enhanced cycling performance. However, when amine functionalized UiO-66 was employed as the separator coating material, the initial specific capacity and capacity retention of Li–S batteries were superior to those materials based on the interparticle effect. Therefore, it is concluded that the thermodynamic interaction inside internal space is more important for preventing polysulfide migration than spatial condensation of the interparticle space. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The issues and demands for MOF commercialization are discussed. • Scalable MOF synthesis, recovery, drying, and post-processing processes are discussed. • Future applications that have significant potential for MOF commercialization are investigated. Progress in metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) has advanced from fundamental chemistry to engineering processes and applications, resulting in new industrial opportunities. The unique features of MOFs, such as their permanent porosity, high surface area, and structural flexibility, continue to draw industrial interest outside the traditional MOF field, both to solve existing challenges and to create new businesses. In this context, diverse research has been directed toward commercializing MOFs, but such studies have been performed according to a variety of individual goals. Therefore, there have been limited opportunities to share the challenges, goals, and findings with most of the MOF field. In this review, we examine the issues and demands for MOF commercialization and investigate recent advances in MOF process engineering and applications. Specifically, we discuss the criteria for MOF commercialization from the views of stability, producibility, regulations, and production cost. This review covers progress in the mass production and formation of MOFs along with future applications that are not currently well known but have high potential for new areas of MOF commercialization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Oenothera biennis (evening primrose) produces bioactive substances with a diverse range of pharmacological functions. However, it is currently unknown whether extract prepared from the aerial parts of O. biennis (APOB) can protect the skin against oxidative stress. Objective: The aim of this study is to investigate the protective effects of APOB against oxidative stress-induced damage in human skin keratinocytes (HaCaT) and elucidate the underlying mechanisms. Methods: We pretreated HaCaT cells with various concentrations of APOB or the antioxidant N-acetyl-L-cysteine before applying H2O2. We then compared the cell viability, intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, and DNA and mitochondrial damage between pretreated and untreated control cells using a range of assays, flow cytometry, and Western blot analysis and also examined the reducing power and DPPH free radical scavenging activity of APOB. Results: APOB pretreatment significantly increased cell viability, effectively attenuated H2O2-induced comet tail formation, and inhibited H2O2-induced phosphorylation of the histone γH2AX, as well as the number of apoptotic bodies and Annexin V-positive cells. APOB was found to have high reducing power and DPPH radical scavenging activity and also exhibited scavenging activity against intracellular ROS accumulation and restored the loss of mitochondrial membrane potential caused by H2O2. APOB pretreatment almost totally reversed the enhanced cleavage of caspase-3, the degradation of poly (ADP-ribose)-polymerase (PARP), DNA fragmentation that usually occurs in the presence of H2O2, and increased the levels of heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), a potent antioxidant enzyme that is associated with the induction of nuclear factor-erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2). Conclusions: APOB can protect HaCaT cells from H2O2-induced DNA damage and cell death by blocking cellular damage related to oxidative stress via a mechanism that affects ROS elimination and by activating the Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Developing MOF coating method using metal nanoparticle mediated nucleation. • MOF layers were coated on other nanocrystalline MOF particles having lattice parameter mismatched. • The MOF coated sample showed the unique H 2 O sorption behavior. • The MOF layer coating on other MOF particles efficiently captured formaldehyde and didn't release it reversely. The coating of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) has been desired to control the surrounding environment of the substrate and the pathway for the guest molecules approaching. Especially, the MOF layer coating on the other MOF nanoparticles has been challenging because of lattice mismatch and undesired homogeneous nucleation. In this report, we coated MOF layers on other nanocrystalline MOFs (nMOFs) using metal nanoparticle mediated nucleation method, and showed how this coating can be used for unique sorption behavior of H 2 O and efficient removal of trace formaldehyde existing in ppm level in air. Specifically, the layers of MOF-801 and UiO-66 were grown from the Pt nanoparticles attached on the particles of nUiO-66 and nMOF-801 to result final products of nMOF-801 ⊂ UiO-66 and nUiO-66 ⊂ MOF-801, respectively. We found that these samples of nUiO-66 ⊂ MOF-801 and nMOF-801 ⊂ UiO-66 present unusual H 2 O uptake behaviors originated from the sequence of condensation between inner and outer MOFs. These samples also captured 7 times higher amount of formaldehyde than an activated carbon and had high affinity to release less amount of formaldehyde even when its concentration outside is low. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a chemical equation related to the article "Smiles Rearrangement Based Practical One-Pot Synthesis of N-Alkyl/Aryl-6-aminoquinolines from 6-Hydroxylquinoline" by Y.S. Xie and others, published in the periodical "Bulletin of the Korean Chemical Society" in 2013.

Most of the synthesized compounds (V) show good inhibition against Gram positive bacteria and fungi. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]