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Severe burn patients frequently suffer from 1,25-Dihydroxyvitamin D3 (1,25-[OH]2-D3) deficiency. In this study, we investigated the effect of 1,25-[OH]2-D3 on early mortality post severe burn and potential underlying mechanisms. Our results indicate that 1,25-[OH]2-D3 significantly reduced early mortality in mice post severe burn injury. A decrease in serum lipopolysaccharide levels and an increase in serum superoxide dismutase activity were found after administration of 1,25-[OH]2-D3. Furthermore, 1,25-[OH]2-D3 demonstrated protective effects on both intestinal and lung histology and ameliorated lung inflammation. Its anti-inflammatory effect was further confirmed in airway epithelial cells. In conclusion, our study provides evidence that 1,25-[OH]2-D3 has a significant impact on the reduction of early mortality post severe burn injury, possibly through its ability to alleviate endotoxemia, oxidative stress, and inflammation. Our findings highlight the potential of 1,25-[OH]2-D3 to protect the intestinal mucosal barrier in the early stage following major burn injury and opens up new avenues for clinical application of 1,25-[OH]2-D3 in burn patients. [Display omitted] ● 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 significantly reduced early mortality in mice post severe burn injury.1,25-[OH]2-D3 markedly reduced early mortality in mice post severe burn injury. ● A decrease in serum lipopolysaccharide levels and an increase in serum superoxide dismutase activity were found after administration of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3. 1,25-[OH]2-D3 markedly reduced early mortality in mice post severe burn injury. ● 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 demonstrated protective effects on both intestinal and lung histology and ameliorated lung inflammation. 1,25-[OH]2-D3 had protective effects on both intestinal and lung histology and ameliorated lung inflammation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

1,4-butanediol (BDO) can be produced by the biotechnological route; however, the process of separating BDO from fermentation broths is energy-intensive due to its high boiling point and complete miscibility with water, which motivates to propose separation routes that involve energy savings. Therefore, an aqueous two-phase system was proposed for the recovery of BDO from aqueous solutions using K 2 CO 3 as a phase-forming agent, without the need for additional solvent. The liquid-liquid equilibrium of the system K 2 CO 3 + BDO + H 2 O was determined at 25 °C and the ENRTL-RK thermodynamic model was used to correlate the experimental data and perform the process simulation in Aspen Plus. Applying this technique, it was possible to concentrate a BDO solution from 12.5% w/w to 84.58% w/w in a liquid-liquid extraction stage with a recovery of 99.59%. Therefore, K 2 CO 3 is a dehydrating agent that could be used for the recovery of BDO obtained by fermentation. [Display omitted] • The liquid-liquid equilibrium of the ternary system K 2 CO 3 +BDO+H 2 O was determined. • K 2 CO 3 is a dehydrating agent for the recovery of BDO from aqueous solutions. • Increasing the amount of K 2 CO 3 improves purity, recovery and partition coefficient. • Salt recovery represents the main consumption of energy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Commercially available azo radical compounds provide efficient initiation of many chemical reactions. However, such energetic azo group initiators have thermal stability issues at ambient or even sub-ambient temperatures. Azo decomposition initiated by heat and/or light can generate significant amounts of nitrogen gas with rapid pressure increases, presenting a safety challenge for shipping, storage and usage. In this study, three azo nitrile compounds were examined using various thermal calorimetry techniques with only 5 mg to 1 g scale samples. We obtained calorimetric data on exothermic activity and gas generation. The testing results were subsequently analyzed by using differential iso-conversional methods to obtain key decomposition kinetics parameters, including activation energy and pre-exponential factor. The model was then validated and utilized for prediction of several key safety parameters for scale-up applications, including Self-Accelerating Decomposition Temperature (SADT), Time to Maximum Rate (TMR), temperature profiles at iso- or non-isothermal conditions for shelf-life evaluation, adiabatic temperature rise, and rate of pressure increase. For compounds such as 2,2'-azobis-(2,4-dimethylvaleronitrile) and 1,1'-azobis(cyclohexane-1-carbonitrile) which went through phase transitions associated with thermal decomposition, the thermal decomposition behavior of liquid and solid state was found to differ in characteristic. This methodology for thermal decomposition kinetics assessment enables safe storage, handling, and scale-up process preparation. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

1,4-Dioxane is a toxic chemical that is used in the chemical industry. The limit concentration of 1,4-dioxane in environment was set at 0.3 mg/kg. Here, for efficient degradation of 1,4-dioxane, combined use of a stripping column and a continuous stirred tank reactor (CSTR) is proposed. The stripping column concentrates 1,4-dioxane, and photo-Fenton reaction in the CSTR decomposes 1,4-dioxane by OH radicals generated by an ultraviolet lamp. In the photo-Fenton reaction, the pseudo-first-order reaction constant was determined to be 1.88 × 10−4 1/s at 318 K. The separation coefficient of 1,4-dioxane, the ratio of the concentrations at the top and bottom of the stripping column, was approximately 500–2700 depending on the heat supplied to the column. The optimum combination of the stripping column and CSTR was investigated on the basis of three proposed models. The order of degradation in the CSTR followed by concentration in the stripping column, along with circulation from the top of the column to the CSTR, gave an overall reaction percentage of 99.9%. From energy calculation, a higher separation coefficient (α) decreased the total heat duty from 4.5 × 104 J/min at α = 640–1.2 × 104 J/min at α = 2400. A stripping column for concentration of 1,4-dioxane combined with a CSTR for photo-Fenton reaction shows potential for efficient degradation of 1,4-dioxane. [Display omitted] • 1,4-Dioxane is toxic requiring the process for removal. • Combined use of a stripping column and a CSTR is proposed for degradation of 1,4-dioxane. • The order of degradation in the CSTR and stripping column with circulation through CSTR gave an overall reaction percentage of 99.9%. • Higher separation coefficient decreased the total heat duty from 4.5 × 104 J/min at α = 640–1.2 × 104 J/min at α = 2400. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, an MXene-based photocatalyst, ARTM to regenerate NADH without electron mediator is reported. The ARTM was able to achieve a regenerated NADH yield of 65 % within 50 min in the absence of electron mediator, with a 1,4-NADH selectivity of 90.8 %. The turnover frequency (TOF) of 1,4-NADH was as high as 0.148 h−1, which was 74 and 148 times higher than that of A-TiO 2 and R-TiO 2 , respectively. The synergetic effect between anatase/rutile TiO 2 phase junction (ART-PJ) and TiO 2 @Ti 3 C 2 T x heterojunction (TM-HJ) facilitates the efficient carriers separation and NADH regeneration. Enzymatic assay and HNMR revealed that the incorporation of Ti 3 C 2 T x promoted the highly selective generation of 1,4-NADH. DFT calculation elucidated that this could be attributed to the end-on adsorption of the nicotinamide ring of NAD+. Subsequently, an electron mediator free photoenzyme cascade catalysis system was constructed, which could effectively promote CO 2 photoreduction to formate (594 μ mol g−1 h−1). [Display omitted] • Engineering an MXene-based photocatalyst containing ART-PJ and TM-HJ. • A high regeneration activity and selectivity of 1,4-NADH was obtained without electron mediator. • An electron mediator free photoenzymatic CO 2 reduction system was constructed. • The mechanism of Photo-enzyme cascade catalytic reaction has been elucidated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Direct conversion of succinic acid to 1,4-butanediol (1,4-BDO) in water was studied. • Over Ru deposited on oxygen-vacant zirconia, high yield 1,4-BDO (90%) was resulted. • Zrδ+ center adjacent to the O v sites activated the γ-butyrolactone ring-opening reaction. • Participation of H in water molecules occurred by hydrogen-shuttling mechanism. • The catalyst was active until six run and coke formation was negligible. The direct conversion of succinic acid to 1,4-butanediol (1,4-BDO) in water was investigated using Ru deposited on oxygen-vacant zirconia (Ru–O v ZrO x) as the catalyst. 1,4-BDO was produced in high yield (89.5 %) and space–time yield (0.19 h−1) at 200 °C. The proximity of Ru to O v ZrO x stabilized the nanosized Ru0 particles, enabled hydrogen spillover, increased the acidity of the catalyst, and achieved intermediate adsorption. The Zrδ+ center (2 ≤ δ < 4)—which featured abundant Lewis acid sites and was adjacent to the O v sites—activated the γ-butyrolactone ring-opening reaction via a route involving 2-hydroxytetrahydrofuran formation. The electron-rich Ru0 center facilitated heterolytic hydrogen dissociation, and the dissociated H– and H+ ions traveled to the Zrδ+ sites and water molecules via hydrogen-shuttling mechanism. Moreover, the weakly bonded hydrogen actively participated in the hydrodeoxygenation and hydrogenation of intermediates to 1,4-BDO. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • A NIR fluorescent probe was synthesized with fluorescent emission at 695 nm and Stoke's shift as large as 260 nm. • 1,3,4-Thiadiazole is a wonderful unit for ESIPT and ICT process and a good identify group for mental ions. • Probe could identify Cu2+ over other analytes with high sensitivity, fast response within 30 s and low detection limit (0.026 μM). • Probe was suitable to assay the Cu2+ level in wine, fruits and herbs. Fluorescent probe L-I was synthesized to demonstrate that 1,3,4-thiadiazole is an attractive moiety and could be utilized as positive hydrogen bond acceptor for excited state intramolecular proton transfer (ESIPT) processes, guider of electrons movement for intramolecular charge transfer (ICT) process and identify group for mental ions. Furthermore, dicyanoisophorone framework was employed to improve the fluorescence characteristics and near-infrared (NIR) fluorescent emission at 695 nm accompanied by a Stoke's shift as large as 260 nm was obtained. L-I could selectively detect Cu2+ over other analytes taking advantages of high sensitivity, fast response within 30 s and low detection limit (0.026 μM). More important, L-I exhibited good performance for detection of Cu2+ in actual water samples, food products, traditional Chinese medicine and for cell imaging which demonstrates practical significance in the fields of environmental monitor, food safety and biotechnology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Some novel 1,2,3-triazole-based pleuromutilin derivatives were designed. Compound 7c displayed antibacterial activities against S. aureus, MRSA and S. epidermidis with MIC values 0.062 μg/mL, and molecular modeling was performed to further investigate the mechianism. • A series of novel 1,2,3-triazole-based pleuromutilin derivatives were synthesized. • Compound 7c displayed highest potency with MIC values 0.0625 μg/mL against S. aureus , MRSA and S. epidermidis. • Killing kinetics test revealed that tested compound displayed concentration-dependent effect. • Molecular docking showed that three strong hydrogen bonds were formed between 7c and ribosomal residues. A novel class of pleuromutilin derivatives possessing 1,2,3-triazole as the linker connected to phenyl analogues were designed. The antibacterial properties of the prepared compounds were assessed in vitro against five strains (E. coli, S. aureus, S. epidermidis, and E. faecalis). Most of the tested compounds displayed potent antibacterial activities against gram-positive bacteria and 14-O-[2-(4-((2,4-dinitrophenoxy)-methyl-1H-1,2,3-triazol-1-yl) acetamide)-2-methylpropan-2-yl) thioacetyl]mutilin (7c) exerted antibacterial activities against S. aureus, MRSA and S. epidermidis with MIC values 0.0625 μg/mL, representing 64-fold, 4-fold and 8-fold higher than tiamulin respectively. Compound 6e , 7c and 8c were chosen to carry out killing kinetics, which exhibited concentration-dependent effect. Subsequently, molecular modeling was conducted to further explore the binding of compound 6e, 7a, 7c, 8c and tiamulin with 50S ribosomal subunit from deinococcus radiodurans. The investigation revealed that the main interactions between compound 7c and the ribosomal residues were three hydrogen bonds, π-π, and p-π conjugate effects. Additionally, the free binding energy and docking score of 7c with the ribosome demonstrated the lowest values of −11.90 kcal/mol and −7.97 kcal/mol, respectively, consistent with its superior antibacterial activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Kinetic models were developed for the vapor phase hydrogenolysis of glycerol in a fixed bed down flow tubular reactor over a highly stable bi-functional Cu-Zn/MgO catalyst. The kinetic experiments were conducted at atmospheric pressure, at different temperatures (200–220 °C), and contact time (W/F Go) (101.5–609 kgcat. h kmol−1), respectively. The Langmuir-Hinshelwood-Hougen-Watson (LHHW) and Eley-Rideal (ER) type kinetic models were tried considering a two-step glycerol dehydration-hydrogenation process. The model equations were solved in MATLAB by using the ode23 function and the kinetic parameters were optimized by using the genetic algorithm optimization technique. The activation energy for the dehydration and hydrogenation steps was found to be 57.73 ± 10 kJ/mol and 156.71 ± 10 kJ/mol from LHHW kinetic model and 82.6 ± 8.3 kJ/mol and 146.2 ± 3.9 kJ/mol from ER kinetic model, respectively. Results demonstrated that both the models were fitted very well with the experimental data generated. However, the parity plots of the simulated and experimental partial pressure of glycerol, acetol, and 1,2-PD suggested that ER model was more appropriate as compared to the LHHW model. [Display omitted] • A kinetic study on the vapor phase hydrogenolysis of glycerol was performed. • LHHW and ER kinetic models were developed. • The kinetic parameters were optimized by a genetic algorithm. • LHHW and ER model were fitted well with experimental results. • The energy barrier for dehydration was less as compared to hydrogenation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study introduces a novel Cu-based catalyst for the selective hydrogenolysis of glycerol to 1,2-propanediol, synthesized by impregnating mesoporous γ-alumina with Cu and Fe. Characterization was performed using various analytical methods, and tests were conducted in a tubular continuous reactor under specific conditions. Iron was found to have multiple modifying effects, influencing the modification of Cu clusters on the catalyst surface and the radial Cu concentration profile inside the particles. A low Fe/Cu ratio resulted in an almost egg-shell Cu profile, whereas higher Fe levels produced a more uniform distribution. Interestingly, minor Fe additions led to larger Cu clusters, while higher amounts resulted in smaller clusters and decreased glycerol conversion. The effect of Fe on Cu clusters size, acid sites concentration, and Cu radial profile, as well as the influence of these parameters on the glycerol conversion and selectivity towards 1,2-PD are discussed in this study. [Display omitted] • Mechanically resistant, cheap and very effective Cu based catalyst for the selective hydrogenolysis of glycerol. • Selectivity to 1,2-propanediol above 90 % was achieved. • Activity enhancement by modification with Fe addition was described and clarified in detail. • The catalyst has industrial potential for phasing out fossil resources and substituting with renewables. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accumulating evidence strongly support the key role of NLRP3-mediated pyroptosis in the pathogenesis and progression of vascular endothelial dysfunction associated with diabetes mellitus. Various studies have demonstrated that the activation or upregulation of Silent Information Regulation 2 homolog 2 (SIRT2) exerts inhibitory effect on the expression of NLRP3. Although 1,8-cineole has been found to protect against endothelial dysfunction and cardiovascular diseases, its role and mechanism in diabetic angiopathy remain unknown. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the ameliorative effect of 1,8-cineole through SIRT2 on pyroptosis associated with diabetic angiopathy in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) and to elucidate the underlying mechanism. The findings revealed that 1,8-cineole exhibited a protective effect against vascular injury and ameliorated pathological alterations in the thoracic aorta of diabetic mice. Moreover, it effectively mitigated pyroptosis induced by palmitic acid-high glucose (PA-HG) in HUVECs. Treatment with 1,8-cineole effectively restored the reduced levels of SIRT2 and suppressed the elevated expression of pyroptosis-associated proteins. Additionally, our findings demonstrated the occurrence of NLRP3 deacetylation and the physical interaction between NLRP3 and SIRT2. The SIRT2 inhibitor AGK2 and siRNA-SIRT2 effectively attenuated the effect of 1,8-cineole on NLRP3 deacetylation in HUVECs and compromised its inhibitory effect against pyroptosis in HUVECs. However, overexpression of SIRT2 inhibited PA-HG-induced pyroptosis in HUVECs. 1,8-Cineole inhibited the deacetylation of NLRP3 by regulating SIRT2, thereby reducing pyroptosis in HUVECs. In conclusion, our findings suggest that PA-HG-induced pyroptosis in HUVECs plays a crucial role in the development of diabetic angiopathy, which can be mitigated by 1,8-cineole. [Display omitted] • 1,8-Cineole suppresses PA-HG-induced pyroptosis in HUVECs. • 1,8-Cineole inhibits NLRP3 acetylation via SIRT2. • 1,8-Cineole ameliorates diabetic angiopathy by activating SIRT2/NLRP3 pathways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aloe barbadensis popularly known as Aloe vera is an extensively cultivated medical herb that is significantly affected by phytopathogenic fungal infestations worldwide. Huge economic losses occur due to leaf spot disease caused by Alternaria spp. The use of different fungicides to manage this disease has harmful impacts on both the environment and the pharmacologically valuable components of Aloe vera. In this study, the antifungal activities and mechanism of 1,8-cineole, a major component of Eucalyptus globulus essential oil (EGO) was investigated as the potential substitute for synthetic fungicides against Alternaia tenuissima. 1,8-cineole at a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 5 µL mL−1 significantly reduced the ergosterol biosynthesis, along with weak cellular membrane, stunted germ tube development with hampered cell wall rigidity. At the gene level, the elevated expression of NADPH oxidase A (NoxA) gene in fungus treated with 1,8-cineole resulted in an increased production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) that triggered cellular damage, leading to the successful mitigation of the phytopathogen. Furthermore, 1,8-cineole downregulated genes related to chitin synthase, ergosterol synthase, cellulase production, glycosyl hydrolase, RhO1 G protein (Rho1), cyclic AMP-dependent protein kinase subunit 1 (AAPK1), and glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GADPH) which validated its detrimental effect on A. tenuissima. To further confirm the proposed antifungal mechanism, docking simulations were run between 1,8-cineole and a potential antifungal target glucosamine-6-phosphate synthase that revealed an efficient interaction with the designed protein model. Consequently, this research offers promising prospects for developing sustainable methods for safeguarding crops through the use of bioactive phyto compounds. [Display omitted] • First report on antifungal effect of Eucalyptus globules oil against Alternaria tenuissima. • 1, 8-cineole identified as a major bioactive molecule of the oil through GC-MS analysis. • 1, 8-cineole effects the expression of virulence and structural genes of A. tenuissima. • Glucosamine-6-phosphate synthase was found as potential target of 1,8-cineole through docking. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Supramolecular gels with metal ion-responsiveness are an important kind of smart materials due to their potential application in environmental monitoring. In this study, a novel l -glutamine-contained 1,8-naphthalimide derivative (NDG) has been designed and synthesized as an organogelator. NDG could self-assemble into stable supramolecular organogels in different kind of solvents, and the gelation process showed bright blue aggregation-induced emission (AIE). The self-assembly behavior, morphology and structure of NDG gels were thoroughly studied by various techniques. Interestingly, the obtained NDG organogel exhibited a fluorescence "turn-off" response for Fe3+ and formed a stable metallogel NDG -Fe3+. The detection limit (LOD) of NDG in diluted solution and gel states for Fe3+ was calculated to be 30.8 nM and 11.5 nM, respectively, indicating high sensitivity. In addition, the blue fluorescence emission of the gel system was restored in the presence of ascorbic acid and then quenched again with oxygen, which showed reversible fluorescence sensing effect and employed as a logic gate at the molecular level. Furthermore, xerogel-based film of NDG emitted strong blue emission and could be utilized as paper-based chemosensor to detect Fe3+. And also, the NDG gel had potential application in fluorescence display material. [Display omitted] • A l -glutamine-contained 1,8-naphthalimide gelator was synthesized with AIE effect. • The organogel exhibited a fluorescence response for Fe3+ by gel-gel transition. • The gel system was potentially constructed as a molecular logic gate. • Paper-based gel film was used in Fe3+ recognition and as display material. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

1,8-Cineole is a bicyclic monoterpene widely distributed in the essential oils of various medicinal plants, and it exhibits significant anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities. We aimed to investigate the therapeutic effect of 1,8-cineole on anti-Alzheimer's disease by using transgenic Caenorhabditis elegans models. Our studies demonstrated that 1,8-cineole significantly relieved A β 1–42 -induced paralysis and exhibited remarkable antioxidant and anti-A β 1–42 aggregation activities in transgenic nematodes CL4176, CL2006 and CL2355. We developed a 1,8-cineole/cyclodextrin inclusion complex, displaying enhanced anti-paralysis, anti-A β aggregation and antioxidant activities compared to 1,8-cineole. In addition, we found 1,8-cineole treatment activated the SKN-1/Nrf-2 pathway and induced autophagy in nematodes. Our results demonstrated the antioxidant and anti-Alzheimer's disease activities of 1,8-cineole, which provide a potential therapeutic approach for Alzheimer's disease. [Display omitted] • Cineole exhibits anti-AD and antioxidant activity likely via SKN-1 and autophagy. • Cineole/cyclodextrin inclusion complex displays enhanced pharmacological activity. • Cineole and its inclusion complex provide a potential therapeutic approach for AD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the critical importance of designing an appropriate immobilized carrier and method for free lipase to ensure exceptional biological catalytic activity and stability was emphasized. Covalent organic frameworks (COF-1) were synthesized as a novel porous carrier with an azine structure (-C N-N C-) through the condensation of hydrazine hydrate and benzene-1,3,5-tricarbaldehyde at room temperature. Simultaneously, Rhizomucor miehei lipase (RML) was immobilized within the COF-1 carrier using an in-situ aqueous phase method. Characterization of the carrier and RML@COF-1 and evaluation of the lipase properties of RML and RML@COF-1 through p -Nitrophenyl palmitate hydrolysis were conducted. Additionally, application in the synthesis of 1, 3-dioleoyl-2-palmitoylglycerol (OPO) was explored. The results showed that RML@COF-1 exhibited a high enzymatic loading of 285.4 mg/g. Under 60℃ conditions, the activity of RML@COF-1 was 2.31 times higher than that of free RML, and RML@COF-1 retained 77.25% of its original activity after 10 cycles of repeated use, indicating its excellent thermal stability and repeatability. Under the optimal conditions (10%, 1:8 PPP/OA, 45℃, 5 h), the yield of OPO reached 47.35%, showcasing the promising application prospects of the novel immobilized enzyme synthesized via in-situ aqueous phase synthesis for OPO preparation. • Novel RML@COF-1 was synthesized by in-situ aqueous phase method at room temperature. • RML @ COF-1 has a high enzyme loading of 285.4 mg / g. • RML @ COF-1 was innovatively applied to the synthesis of OPO structured lipids. • RML@COF-1 could retain 77.25% of the original activity after ten recycles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this experimental work, triphenylbenzene/polymethylmethacrylate (TPB/PMMA) based thin films were deposited using a spin coating to examine their structural, optical, and electrical properties. The deposited thin film has a crystalline nature with an average crystalline size of 27.12 nm, and a dislocation density of 7.1 × 10−4 nm−2. The absorption spectra of TPB, PMMA, and TPB-PMMA films lie in the range of 200 nm–500 nm with an optical bandgap of 3.85 eV, for TPB-PMMA. The PL spectra of pure TPB thin film give a constant emission at 360 nm, which is independent of the excitation wavelength in the range of 310 nm–340 nm. The excitation-dependent behaviors for both pure TPB and TPB-PMMA were observed in terms of intensity that first increases and gives maximum intensity for the excitation wavelengths of 328 nm and 315 nm, respectively. From CIE coordinates, it was observed that the TPB-PMMA thin film gives a constant deep blue emission. The effect of TPB-PMMA percentage was examined with the help of IV studies, and at 20 % TPB: PMMA, the presence of more TPB molecules was observed resulting in a smaller distance between molecules and a larger number of available paths for current flow. Further, with a rise in temperature from 303K to 353K, the thermal stability of the TPB-PMMA thin film was excellent, and it kept the ohmic behavior. The examined optical bandgap of TPB-PMMA thin film falls within the range that is appropriate for OLEDs with emission in the blue region. In addition, the excellent structural and electrical properties of TPB-PMMA make it a suitable candidate for optoelectronic devices. [Display omitted] • Triphenylbenzenes based TPB-PMMA thin films were examined with a polymer matrix. • The deposited thin film has a crystalline nature (examined using XRD) along with uniform deposition observed from FESEM. • The absorption bands were present in the UV range and the optical bands are found to be less than that of pure PMMA and TPB. • I-V properties of TPB-PMMA show Ohmic behavior in the temperature range 303K–353 K. • The bandgap of TPB-PMMA thin film are suitable for such as OLED with emission in the blue region and others. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The best photocatalytic removal of DCE is achieved by 0.01 %Sr/TiO 2. • 0.01 %Cr promotes the visible light and blue-light driven photocatalytic activity. • Photocatalytic activity is declined in the absence of O 2. 1,2-dichloroethane/DCE, a volatile organic compounds (VOCs), can carry out damage to human health and be emitted from various industrial activities. Therefore, development of an eco-friendly process for removal of DCE is critical to improve the air quality index and further protect human health. Photocatalytic activity has been recognized as an efficient strategy in removing various types of VOCs. Owing to its compatibility to be conducted under mild condition, photocatalytic reaction is also favorable. Performance of TiO 2 , a widely applied photocatalyst, can be improved by the doping of various metal elements, like Sr and Cr. Besides, the doping process might also promote the suitability of photocatalyst to be operated under visible light. This study explored performance of various ratios of Sr/TiO 2 and Cr/TiO 2 under illumination of UV light. 0.01 %Sr/TiO 2 achieved the best DCE removal and was further applied examination using various temperatures, along with concentration of DCE and O 2. The presence of O 2 played an important role during the photocatalytic reaction. Characterization, reaction kinetics study, and analysis of byproducts were also investigated in this study. A short-extended assessment was also applied to examine the performance under blue light and white light illumination. Contrary, Cr performed the best DCE photocatalytic removal under the supply of visible light. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We propose a facile strategy to synchronously achieve surface reconstruction and grain boundary healing by using 1,3-propylene diamine (PDA) post-treatment on CsPbI 3 film. Consequently, the inverted PDA-based CsPbI 3 device yields a champion PCE of 20.02% with significantly improved long-term storage stability and operational stability. [Display omitted] • The PDA can break the soft CsPbI 3 structure in the shallow surface. • PDA passivates defect sites on the surface and grain boundaries of CsPbI 3 films. • The inverted CsPbI 3 device with PDA achieves a champion efficiency of 20.02%. • The long-term storage and operational stability are significantly improved. Cesium lead iodide (CsPbI 3) perovskite has gained considerable attentions due to its unique photoelectric properties. However, numerous defects are inevitably existed on the surface and grain boundaries (GBs) of CsPbI 3 resulting from the rapid crystallization and growth progress. Herein, different from the traditional ammonium salt treatment mechanism, we propose a facile strategy to synchronously achieve surface reconstruction and grain boundary healing by using 1,3-propylene diamine (PDA) post-treatment on CsPbI 3 film. It is discovered that the PDA with suitable concentration can preferentially invade the defect sites of surface and GBs of CsPbI 3 film, thereby break the soft perovskite structure in the shallow surface. With further low temperature annealing treatment, the broken CsPbI 3 surface would undergo rapid secondary crystal growth to acquire smoother and blurred morphology with reduced GBs and pinholes, primarily derived from the strong interaction between the highly active amino groups of liquid PDA and Pb of perovskite. Meanwhile, the residual PDA molecules mainly anchor at the surface and GBs, and thus connect neighboring perovskite grains, coordinate uncoordinated sites to effectively passivate defects, and also resist the external invasions. Consequently, the inverted PDA-based CsPbI 3 device yields a champion PCE of 20.02% with significantly improved long-term storage stability and operational stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd) are common heavy metal pollutants that are often found in the soil in soybean agricultural production, adversely impacting symbiotic nitrogen fixation in soybean nodules. In this study, the exposure of soybean nodules to Pb and Cd stress was found to reduce nitrogenase activity. Shifts in the RNA methylation profiles of nodules were subsequently examined by profiling the differential expression of genes responsible for regulating m6A modifications and conducting transcriptome-wide analyses of m6A methylation profiles under Pb and Cd stress condition. Differentially methylated genes (DMGs) that were differentially expressed were closely related to reactive oxygen species activity and integral membrane components. Overall, 19 differentially expressed DMGs were ultimately determined to be responsive to both Pb and Cd stress, including Glyma.20G082450, which encodes GmAMT1;1 and was confirmed to be a positive regulator of nodules tolerance to Pb and Cd. Together, these results are the first published data corresponding to transcriptome-wide m6A methylation patterns in soybean nodules exposed to Cd and Pb stress, and provide novel molecular insight into the regulation of Pb and Cd stress responses in nodules, highlighting promising candidate genes related to heavy metal tolerance, that may also be amenable to application in agricultural production. Lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd) are prevalent heavy metal pollutants in soil, and pose a major threat to crop production, food security and human health. Here, MeRIP-seq approach was employed to analyze the regulatory network activated in soybean nodules under Pb and Cd stress, ultimately leading to the identification of 19 shared differentially expressed DMGs. When overexpressed, GmATM1;1 was found to enhance the Pb and Cd tolerance of soybean nodules. These results provide a theoretical basis for studies on tolerance to heavy metals in symbiotic nitrogen fixation, and provide an approach to enhancing Pb and Cd tolerance in soybean production. [Display omitted] • Pb and Cd stress causes decrease in the number of infected cells in soybean nodule. • 19 common differentially expressed DMGs under Pb and Cd stress in soybean nodule. • Soybean nodule had more hypermethylated genes after Cd treatment compared to Pb stress. • Overexpression of GmAMT1;1 enhances Pb and Cd tolerance in soybean root nodules. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An experiment was conducted to evaluate effects of dietary energy level and 1,3-diacylglycerol (DAG) on growth performance and carcass characteristics in broilers. A 2 3 2 completely randomized factorial arrangement was used in this study with Cobb standard or reduced levels of dietary energy and inclusion of DAG at 0 or 0.1%. For the standard-energy group, ME was formulated to 3,000, 3,100, and 3,150 kcal/kg for starter (day 0–7), grower (day 8–21), and finisher (day 22–42) periods, respectively. In the reduced-energy diet, ME was reduced by 75 kcal/kg for each period. A total of 640 1-day-old Cobb500 male broilers were randomly placed into 4 treatments with 8 replicate pens of 20 birds each. At day 43, 8 birds from each pen were selected for carcass yield. A reduction of dietary energy decreased (P , 0.05) BW gain and increased (P , 0.05) feed conversion ratio compared with the standard-energy group during 0 to 35 and 0 to 42 D. Inclusion of DAG at 0.1% increased (P , 0.05) BW gain during 0 to 35 and 0 to 42 D and decreased (P , 0.05) feed conversion ratio during 0 to 35 D compared with the reduced-energy group. There were interactions between DAG and energy level on most carcass weight parameters (P , 0.05). The interaction effects suggested reduced-energy group without adding DAG had a negative effect on the carcass parameters compared with standard-energy control group. Adding 0.1% DAG to the reduced-energy diet was able to improve the carcass parameters through increasing live weight. It is concluded that reduction of dietary energy level and crude fat reduced performance and DAG supplementation could improve performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

1,4-butanediol (1,4-BDO) is a significant non-natural chemical with diverse applications in various fields, particularly in the production of biodegradable plastic products as an essential monomer. The conversion of starch-based sugars using microbial cell factories provides a green alternative for the production of 1,4-BDO, but was limited by the low efficiency and high production cost. In this work, the classic CoA-dependent 1,4-BDO synthesis pathway was exogenously introduced into Escherichia coli , but the titer of 1,4-BDO was only 0.72 g/L using glucose as the substrate. The poorly expressed enzymes and the ineffective distribution of central carbon flux were considered the main limiting factors. Combined genetic manipulation of the synthesis pathway and bioprocess engineering, glycerol was proven to be a more favorable feedstock for 1,4-BDO synthesis, and a novel pathway functioned by carboxylic acid reductase could achieve one-step catalysis from 4-hydroxybutyric acid to 4-hydroxybutyraldehyde, which avoided the rate-limiting steps involved by hydroxybutyrate CoA transferase (Cat2) and alcohol dehydrogenase (Bld). The titer of 1,4-BDO reached 1.31 g/L and 1.07 g/L in the novel pathway using pure glycerol and the industrial by-product crude glycerol as the substrate, respectively. The fed-batch fermentation was finally conducted, and the titer of 1,4-BDO was increased to 5.75 g/L with a yield of 143.75 mg/g glycerol. Our work removed the bottleneck of the 1,4-BDO synthesis pathway by introducing carboxylic acid reductase and effectively converted crude glycerol to 1,4-BDO, which enabled us to build a sustainable microbial cell factory to cost-efficiently produce 1,4-BDO as well as other biochemicals from crude glycerol. [Display omitted] ● Glycerol was proven to be a favorable feedstock for 1,4-butanediol synthesis. ● The rate-limited steps in the CoA-dependent synthesis pathway were modified. ● The carboxylic acid reductase-functioned pathway was proven to be efficient. ● Crude glycerol indicated a promising potential for 1,4-butanediol production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The synthesis of glycols from the CO 2 -assisted hydration of epoxides is highly significant in terms of both CO 2 utilization and the production of fine chemicals. Significant effort has been devoted to designing effective catalysts. However, the gas–liquid mass transfer of this process, which is critical for the efficiency of the transformation, has received less attention. In this study, propylene glycol (PG) was synthesized with high efficiency through the CO 2 -assisted hydration of propylene oxide (PO) using a jet loop reactor (JLR). A systemic investigation of the influence of the reaction conditions was carried out with respect to reaction temperature, CO 2 pressure, and catalyst concentration. Under optimal reaction conditions, the CO 2 -assisted hydration of PO proceeded efficiently with a low H 2 O:PO molar ratio of 1:1, producing PG with a high selectivity of 99% and full conversion of PO. Notably, the JLR exhibited higher efficiency and product selectivity than a stirred-tank reactor, demonstrating its superior advantage in facilitating gas–liquid mass transfer. [Display omitted] • Intensified gas-liquid mass transfer efficiency with a jet loop reactor. • PG selectivity up to 99% at low water/epoxide molar ratio of 1/1. • In-situ IR monitored reaction process of CO 2 -assisted hydration of PO. • Superior efficiency and selectivity in jet loop reactor than stirred-tank reactor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Complexes 1 and 2 have the same spatial configuration, and complex 1 and 2 are Z-shaped chain structure, while complex 3 is a linear chain structure. • Complex 2 exhibits ferromagnetic behavior. • Complex 4 exhibits antiferromagnetic behavior. In order to further enrich the research on the synthesis of complexes with terpyridine ligand and transition metals, in this work, 4′-(4-(1H-imidazol-1-yl)phenyl)-2,2′:6′,2′'-terpyridine (Iptpd), 1,2-benzenedicarboxylic acid (1,2-BA) were used to construct metal complexes with Cd2+, Zn2+, Mn2+ and Co2+ by solvothermal reaction, and five complexes were constructed, namely, [Cd(Iptpd)(NO 3) 2 ] n (1), [Mn(Iptpd)(NO 3) 2 ] n (2), [Zn(Iptpd) (NO 3) 2 ·2H 2 O] n (3), [Mn(Iptpd)(1,2-BA)] 2 (4) and [Co 3 (Iptpd) 2 (1,2-BA) 2 (NO 3) 2 ·10H 2 O] n (5); Single crystal x-ray diffraction analyses reveal that complexes 1, 2, 3 and 5 have one-dimensional chain structure, 4 is a binuclear structure. In addition, Luminescence behavior of complexes 1 and 3 , magnetic properties of complexes 2 and 4 were investigated. The fluorescent test result shows that complex 1 and 3 have weak fluorescence performance and the fluorescence intensity is lower than that of ligand; The magnetic results indicate that complex 2 has ferromagentic property and 4 has antiferromagentic property. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrazine (N 2 H 4), as a highly reducing agent and reactive base, is extensively utilized in chemical, pharmaceutical and agriculture fields. However, the high toxicity of N 2 H 4 poses significant risks to human health and can lead to severe ecological contamination. Consequently, it is of significant to develop a tool for the detection of N 2 H 4 in the environment fields and in vivo. Herein, three 1,8-naphthalimide-triphenylamine-based red-emitting fluorescence probes (TSY-1 , TSY-2 and TSY-3) have been developed for the detection of N 2 H 4 in actual water sample and in vivo by coupling of 1,8-naphthalimide derivatives with the electron-withdrawing groups (1,3-indandione, malononitrile, and 2-benzothiazolethonitrile) through a N 2 H 4 responsive C C bond. Significant fluorescence quenching of three probes was observed on account of the responses toward N 2 H 4. The detection limits of TSY-1 , TSY-2 and TSY-3 for N 2 H 4 were calculated to be 0.2 μM, 0.4 μM and 54 μM, respectively. Utilizations of probe-based test paper strips to qualitatively detect N 2 H 4 in actual water sample by "naked-eye" colorimetry were demonstrated. Additionally, quantitative determination of N 2 H 4 in actual water samples was successfully achieved by the smartphone-based standard curves. Additionally, the applications of TSY-1 , TSY-2 and TSY-3 in fluorescence imaging N 2 H 4 in vivo are also demonstrated. [Display omitted] • Three red emitting probes are developed for high selective and sensitive detection of N 2 H 2 in water of wide pH range. • Probe-based test paper strips for "naked-eye" detection of N 2 H 4 level in real-world water samples are obtained. • Determination of N 2 H 4 in real-world water samples is achieved by the smartphone-based approach. • Applications of the three probes in fluorescence imaging of N 2 H 4 in vivo are demonstrated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Molecular modulating have recently emerged as an effectual strategy for ameliorating the performance and stability of perovskite solar cells (PSCs). However, to date cage polyamine with nitrogen heterocyclic porous structure is rarely used as the modulator. Herein, a cage polyamine molecule 1,4-diazabicyclo[2.2.2]octane (DABCO) as modulator is intercalated into the buried interface between electron transport layer and perovskite layer. The situation of the perovskite bottom layer is ascertained by peeling off the buried interfaces. The intercalation of DABCO not only passivates the defect, resulting in a 54 % decrease in trap-state density; but also assists the crystal growth of perovskite, relieves lattice tensile stress; as well as optimizes the energy level alignment of the functional layers. As a result, the DABCO optimized PSC achieves a power conversion efficiency of 23.6 % along with excellent stability, compared to 20.5% for the pristine PSC. The research provides a typical molecular modulating to utilize cage polyamine in PSCs. [Display omitted] • A cage polyamine molecule DABCO is intercalated into the buried interface of PVK/ETL. • The state of the perovskite bottom layer is ascertained by peeling off the PVK/ETL. • DABCO modification passivates defect and decreases trap-state density by 54 %. • DABCO relieves lattice stress and optimizes the layer's energy alignment. • DABCO optimized PSC gets an efficiency of 23.6 %, compared to 20.5 % for pristine PSC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] A composite material based on polyvinyl chloride and a 1,8-naphthalimide derivative containing an azadithia-15‑crown-5 ether receptor showed a fluorescent response to silver cations in an aqueous solution at low concentrations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Ethnopharmacological relevance Plant species Rosmarinus officinalis L. (Lamiaceae; Synonyms: Salvia rosmarinus Schleid. and Rosmarinus angustifolius Mill.) is a herb widely used worldwide. In local and traditional medicine, its used for inflammation-related diseases. Currently, studies report anti-inflammatory activity in its essential oil (EORO). However, to better understand EORO's anti-inflammatory activity its necessary to understand its phytochemistry and the signaling pathways affected by it. Hence, this review aimed to describe EORO phytochemical profile, ethnopharmacological uses, some biological activities of EORO will be described but emphasizing its anti-inflammatory potential and possible mechanisms of action involved. Materials and methods The research was performed using the databases Medline, Embase, BVS Regional Portal, Science Direct, CAPES Journals, and Scopus; using the keywords " Rosmarinus officinalis ", "anti-inflammatory" and "essential oil". Additional information was gathered from related textbooks, reviews, and documents. Results and discussion Until now about 150 chemical compounds were identified in EORO samples, more frequently reported molecules were 1,8-cineole, α-pinene, and camphor. Studies suggest that the anti-inflammatory activity of EORO occur mainly through inhibition of NF-κB transcription and suppression of arachidonic acid cascade. Its antioxidant activity also aids by preventing injury caused by the reactive species of inflammation; its smooth muscle relaxant activity contributes to ameliorating airway inflammatory diseases. Lastly, toxicity assessments indicate low toxicity to EORO. Conclusions Current evidence indicates anti-inflammatory activity in EORO, supporting its ethnopharmacological uses in inflammatory-related diseases, and potential future applications. However, although considerable acute inflammatory models were tested, more chronic inflammatory models are needed; clinical studies are still absent, this may be due to the high doses needed for essential oils to exert pharmacological effects, but recent studies show this issue can be bypassed using the oil formulated as nanoemulsions to improve its bioavailability. Graphical abstract fx1 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Duckweed (Lemna gibba) was investigated for the treatment of wastewater containing 1,4-dioxane (e.g., polyester industry wastewater). Three continuous flow duckweed-pond systems (DWP), i.e., one pond, two ponds, and three ponds, were operated achieving different hydraulic retention time (HRT) of 2, 4 and 6 d, respectively. Results indicated that DWP3 is the most efficient one in 1,4-dioxane and NH 4 -N removals from wastewater. 1,4-dioxane and NH 4 -N removal efficiencies by DWP3 (56.9 ± 25% and 87.2 ± 7.1%, respectively) were slightly higher than that obtained by DWP2 (44.8 ± 19.6% and 81.9 ± 8.6%, respectively). It was found that, at DWP3, the pH value was reduced from 8.80 to 7.45, the dissolved oxygen (DO) was increased from 3.5 ± 1.9 to 7.5 ± 3 mg/L, and the concentration of total dissolved solids (TDS) was decreased from 921.5 ± 120.6 to 837.6 ± 83.6 mg/L. Eventually, duckweed (Lemna gibba) is effective to remove 1,4-dioxane from wastewater, representing an eco-friendly, effective and low operation and maintenance costs technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a key parameter affecting the biochemical reaction of cells, the change of polarity also affects some important biological processes of cells. However, there are very few polarity probes for Golgi apparatus. In this work, coumarin or 1,8-naphthalimide were chosen as the fluorophores for their excellent optical property. Based on the combination of amide and long carbon chain, three Golgi polarity probes with different emission regions were designed and synthesized. Among them, Golgi-Blue and Golgi-Green inherited the blue and green fluorescence of the parents, respectively; while after the introduction of dicyanoisophorone unit to the 1,8-naphthalimide, Golgi-Red achieved near infrared emission (700–750 nm). Moreover, the three probes were sensitive to the polarity of solution. Interestingly, the fluorescence of Golgi-Blue and Golgi-Green decreased whereas that of Golgi-Red first enhanced gradually and then weakened with the increase of polarity, which was caused by the configuration change of the ground and excited state to induce twisted intramolecular charge transfer (TICT) in 1,4-dioxane and elucidated by means of density functional theory. Cell experiments showed that the three probes could quickly and accurately target Golgi apparatus and monitor the changes of Golgi polarity. The results may help in the early diagnosis of polar-related diseases. [Display omitted] • Three coumarin or 1,8-naphthalimide derivatives were synthesized. • The three probes could rapidly target to the Golgi apparatus and test polarity. • The red polarity probe had the opposite property to the other two. • This work filled the gap in the blue and green channels of Golgi polarity probes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

New Approach Methodologies (NAMs) are being widely used to reduce, refine, and replace, animal use in studying toxicology. For respiratory toxicology, this includes both in silico and in vitro alternatives to replace traditional in vivo inhalation studies. 1,3-Dichloropropene (1,3-DCP) is a volatile organic compound that is widely used in agriculture as a pre-planting fumigant. Short-term exposure of humans to 1,3-DCP can result in mucous membrane irritation, chest pain, headache, and dizziness. In our previous work, we exposed differentiated cells representing different parts of the respiratory epithelium to 1,3-DCP vapor, measured cytotoxicity, and did In Vitro to In Vivo Extrapolation (IVIVE). We have extended our previous study with 1,3-DCP vapors by conducting transcriptomics on acutely exposed nasal cultures and have implemented a separate 5-day repeated exposure with multiple endpoints to gain further molecular insight into our model. MucilAir™ Nasal cell culture models, representing the nasal epithelium, were exposed to six sub-cytotoxic concentrations of 1,3-DCP vapor at the air-liquid interface, and the nasal cultures were analyzed by different methodologies, including histology, transcriptomics, and glutathione (GSH) -depletion assays. We observed the dose-dependent effect of 1,3-DCP in terms of differential gene expression, change in cellular morphology from pseudostratified columnar epithelium to squamous epithelium, and depletion of GSH in MucilAir™ nasal cultures. The MucilAir™ nasal cultures were also exposed to 3 concentrations of 1,3-DCP using repeated exposure 4 h per day for 5 days and the histological analyses indicated changes in cellular morphology and a decrease in ciliated bodies and an increase in apoptotic bodies, with increasing concentrations of 1,3-DCP. Altogether, our results suggest that sub-cytotoxic exposures to 1,3-DCP lead to several molecular and cellular perturbations, providing significant insight into the mode-of-action (MoA) of 1,3-DCP using an innovative NAM model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A convenient and selective approach to 13,17-secoestra-1,3,5(10)-trien-17-oic acid [N'-arylcarbothioamido]hydrazides and hybrid molecules containing secosteroid and 1,2,4-triazole fragments was disclosed and these novel types of secosteroids were screened for cytotoxicity against hormone-dependent human breast cancer cell line MCF-7. Most of secosteroid–1,2,4-triazole hybrids showed significant cytotoxic effect comparable or superior to that of the reference drug cisplatin. Hit secosteroid–1,2,4-triazole hybrids 4b and 4h were characterized by high cytotoxicity and good selectivity towards MCF-7 breast cancer cells. PARP cleavage (marker of apoptosis) and ERα and cyclin D1 downregulation were discovered in MCF-7 cells treated with lead secosteroid–1,2,4-triazole hybrid 4b. The synthesized secosteroids may be considered as new promising anticancer agents. [Display omitted] • Secosteroid thiosemicarbazides and secosteroid–1,2,4-triazoles were synthesized. • A number of obtained compounds showed good cytotoxicity for MCF-7 cancer cells. • Hit compounds 4b and 4h superior to the reference drug cisplatin. • Hit compound 4b caused PARP cleavage and ERα and cyclin D1 downregulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two fluorescent sensors based on 1,10-phenanthroline, 2-(2-fluorophenyl)-1 H -imidazo[4,5- f ][1,10]phenanthroline (L1) and 2-(2-iodophenyl) -1 H -imidazo[4,5- f ][1,10]phenanthroline (L2) were designed and synthesized for sensitive and selective detection of Zn2+ in methanol, test paper and actual water samples. The results of strip test and real water sample test showed that sensors 1 and 2 have potential application in environmental metal ion recognition and detection. [Display omitted] • Two fluorescent sensors were designed and synthesized for sensitive and selective detection of Zn2+ in methanol, test paper and actual water samples. Synthesis of two fluorescent sensors based on 1,10-phenanthroline, 2-(2-fluorophenyl)-1H-imidazo[4,5-f][1,10]phenanthroline (L1) and 2-(2-iodophenyl)-1H-imidazo[4,5-f][1,10]phenanthroline (L2). Their recognition of Fe3+, Co2+, Ni2+, Zn2+, Cd2+, Cu2+, Mn2+, Eu3+, K+, Ca2+, Na+, Mg2+, Cr3+, Ag+, Hg2+, and Fe2+ was investigated using UV–vis absorption and fluorescence emission spectroscopy, and the results showed that L1 and L2 could be detected by significant fluorescence enhancement and naked eye color changes to achieve the identification of Zn2+. The high sensitivity of L1 and L2, with detection limits as low as 0.092 uM and 0.12 uM, respectively, indicates that the sensors have the ability to detect trace amounts of Zn2+. The binding stoichiometry ratio of L1-Zn2+ and L2-Zn2+ was determined by the Job's plot method to be 3:1. In addition, the test strip test and the actual water sample test showed their potential application in environmental ion identification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

No consensus has been reached about the best treatment method of plantar fasciitis and the results of the treatment methods have been inconsistent. The objective of the present study was to compare the therapeutic effects of extracorporeal shock wave therapy, platelet-rich plasma injection, local corticosteroid injection, and prolotherapy for the treatment of chronic plantar fasciitis using a randomized, controlled, prospective study. We performed a randomized controlled prospective clinical study of 4 groups. The first group received extracorporeal shock wave therapy, the second group received prolotherapy, the third group received platelet-rich plasma injection, and the fourth group received a local corticosteroid injection. The study included 158 consecutive patients with a diagnosis of chronic plantar fasciitis with a symptomatic heel spur. The clinical outcomes were assessed using the visual analog scale and Revised Foot Function Index. At the end of the follow-up period, the mean visual analog scale scores for all 4 groups were similar to the mean visual analog scale scores before treatment. At the end of the follow-up period, no significant improvement was noted in the Revised Foot Function Index score in any of the groups. The corticosteroid injection was more effective in the first 3 months and extracorporeal shock wave therapy was an effective treatment method in the first 6 months in regard to pain. The corticosteroid injection lost its effectiveness during the follow-up period. The effect of prolotherapy and platelet-rich plasma was seen within 3 to 12 months; however, at the 36-month follow-up point, no differences were found among the 4 treatments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A fast-switching all-solid state symmetrical electrochromic device was successfully fabricated using poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene)-poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) as electrode and a poly(ionic liquid) based on 1,2,3-triazole with oxyethylene spacer as solid electrolyte. PEDOT:PSS solution was spincoated on ITO glass and annealed to obtain the electrode layers. Two different types of electrolyte were synthesized via copper-catalyzed alkyne-azide cycloaddition (CuAAC) using novel azide/alkyne-terminal monomers. These newly developed main-chain 1,2,3-triazole-based poly(ionic liquid)s having variable spacer length underwent quaternization using methyl iodide and subsequently allowed to make anion exchange with lithium bis(trifluoromethane)sulfonimide salt to obtain PILs with remarkable properties. The PIL bearing [–(CH 2 CH 2 O) 6 –] spacer showed a conductivity of 1.20 × 10 −4 S cm −1 which is at par with best side-chain PILs in literature and it efficiently switches an electrochromic device (ECD) with 22% optical contrast from its transparent state to a colored state in 2.5 s and 3.2 s to return to its bleached state. Likewise, it exhibits excellent thermal and mechanical stability that is ideal for practical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent studies highlighted that hydrophobic microorganisms played key roles in VOC removal performance of two-phase partitioning bioreactors (TPPBs). The objective of this study was to evaluate the performance of a hydrophobic mixed culture for 1,2-dichloroethane (1,2-DCA) biodegradation in both batch and TPPB tests. The hydrophobic mixed culture with cell surface hydrophobicity of 79% was acclimated from an activated sludge able to efficiently degrade 1,2-DCA as sole carbon and energy source. It was primarily composed of Xanthobacter genus (62%). Nearly complete degradation with coefficients of 0.80 mgCO2 mg1,2-DCA-1 and 0.66 mgCl- mg1,2-DCA-1 was achieved for a wide range of 1,2-DCA concentrations (114.1-1141.5 mg L-1) in the presence of silicone oil. The maximum specific growth rate was 0.247 h-1 which was approximately two times the values of previous pure strains. The two-phase partitioning airlift bioreactors inoculated with the hydrophobic mixed culture was robust against step changes of gas flow rates and spike changes of inlet 1,2-DCA concentrations. All data proved the potential of the hydrophobic mixed culture for toxic-VOC removal in the TPPBs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Achilles tendon ruptures can be either surgically or conservatively treated with either early functional mobilization or cast immobilization. The purpose of the present study was to conduct a meta-analysis comparing the effect of early versus late weightbearing in conservatively treated adult patients, including only randomized controlled trials (RCTs). The primary endpoint was rerupture, and the secondary endpoints were strength, quality of life during treatment, range of motion, deep venous thrombosis, return to sports, and return to work. The search for studies was conducted using PubMed, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled trials. A search was performed, and 2 reviewers independently screened the studies by title, abstract, and, finally, by reading the full text. Four studies met the inclusion criteria. The reference lists of the included studies were scanned and 1 additional RCT study was included. The critical appraisal skills program checklist was applied for study appraisal. A statistician performed the data management and analysis. No statistically significant differences were found between the 2 treatment groups concerning rerupture ( p = .796), return to sports ( p = .455), or return to work ( p = .888). One RCT found 1 case of deep venous thrombosis in the late weightbearing group. One RCT reported significant improvement in quality of life and one reported a significantly improved range of dorsiflexion in the early weightbearing group. No statistically significant difference was found between early and late weightbearing with conservative treatment regarding the rerupture rate. The results of the other outcomes were limited by the low number of studies included in the present meta-analysis. Larger randomized studies are needed to investigate these outcomes. From the results in the present study, we would recommend early weightbearing when an Achilles tendon rupture is treated conservatively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Trace elements such as copper and cobalt have been associated with virus-host interactions. However, studies to show the effect of conjugation of copper(II) or cobalt(III) metal centers to thiosemicarbazone ligand(s) derived from either food additives or mosquito repellent such as 2-acetylethiazole or citral, respectively, on Zika virus (ZIKV) or dengue virus (serotype 2; DENV2) infections have not been explored. In this study, we show that four compounds comprising of thiosemicarbazone ligand derived from 2-acetylethiazole viz., (E)-N-ethyl-2-[1-(thiazol-2-yl)ethylidene]hydrazinecarbothioamide (acetylethTSC) (compound 1), a copper(II) complex with acetylethTSC as a ligand (compound 2), a thiosemicarbazone ligand-derived from citral (compound 3) and a cobalt(III) complex with a citral-thiosemicarbazone ligand (compound 4) increased DENV2 and ZIKV replication in both mosquito C6/36 cells and human keratinocytes (HaCaT cells). Treatment of both cell lines with compounds 2 or 4 showed increased dengue viral titers at all three tested doses. Enhanced dengue viral plaque formation was also noted at the tested dose of 100 μM, suggesting higher production of infectious viral particles. Treatment with the compounds 2 or 4 enhanced ZIKV and DENV2 RNA levels in HeLa cell line and primary cultures of mouse bone marrow derived dendritic cells. Also, pre- or post treatments with conjugated compounds 2 or 4 showed higher loads of ZIKV or DENV2 envelope (E) protein in HaCaT cells. No changes in loads of E-protein were found in ZIKV-infected C6/36 cells, when compounds were treated after infection. In addition, we tested bis(1,10-phenanthroline)copper(II) chloride ([Cu(phen) 2 ]Cl 2 , (compound 5) and tris(1,10-phenanthroline)cobalt(III) chloride ([Co(phen) 3 ]Cl 3 , (compound 6) that also showed enhanced DENV2 loads. Also, we found that copper(II) chloride dehydrate (CuCl 2 ·2H 2 O) or cobalt(II) chloride hexahydrate (CoCl 2 ·6H 2 O) alone had no effects as “free” cations. Taken together, these findings suggest that use of Cu(II) or Co(III) conjugation to organic compounds, in insect repellents and/or food additives could enhance DENV2/ZIKV loads in human cells and perhaps induce pathogenesis in infected individuals or individuals pre-exposed to such conjugated complexes. Importance Mosquito-borne diseases are of great concern to the mankind. Use of chemicals/repellents against mosquito bites and transmission of microbes has been the topic of interest for many years. Here, we show that thiosemicarbazone ligand(s) derived from 2-acetylethiazole or citral or 1,10-phenanthroline upon conjugation with copper(II) or cobalt(III) metal centers enhances dengue virus (serotype 2; DENV2) and/or Zika virus (ZIKV) infections in mosquito, mouse and human cells. Enhanced ZIKV/DENV2 capsid mRNA or envelope protein loads were evident in mosquito cells and human keratinocytes, when treated with compounds before/after infections. Also, treatment with copper(II) or cobalt(III) conjugated compounds increased viral titers and number of plaque formations. These studies suggest that conjugation of compounds in repellents/essential oils/natural products/food additives with copper(II) or cobalt(III) metal centers may not be safe, especially in tropical and subtropical places, where several dengue infection cases and deaths are reported annually or in places with increased ZIKV caused microcephaly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An optimal outcome of surgical treatment for a syndesmotic injury depends on accurate reduction and adequate fixation. It has been suggested that the use of a reduction clamp for reduction of the syndesmosis results in better reduction and a lower rate of redisplacement than manual reduction. However, these concepts have never been scientifically evaluated. We compared these 2 methods in a prospective randomized trial. A total of 85 acute ankle rotational fractures combined with syndesmotic injury were randomized to syndesmosis reduction with either a reduction clamp or manual manipulation. Reduction of the syndesmosis was assessed radiographically by measuring the tibiofibular clear space, tibiofibular overlap, and the medial clear space immediately postoperatively and at the final follow-up examination. Ankle joint range of motion, visual analog scale score, Olerud–Molander ankle scoring system, and complications were obtained at the last follow-up visit to assess the clinical outcomes. Of the 3 radiographic measurements, the tibiofibular clear space and tibiofibular overlap differed significantly between the 2 groups ( p < .05). The clinical outcomes did not differ significantly between the 2 groups ( p > .05). Although differences were found in the radiographic measurements, most syndesmoses in both groups were within the normal range at the final follow-up visit, and the 2 methods of syndesmosis reduction provided similar clinical outcomes. Accordingly, the results of the present study suggest that both of these methods are effective and reliable for reduction of the syndesmosis in rotational ankle fractures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

1,8-Cineole, the main component of volatile oil in aromatic plants, has diverse pharmacological properties, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer properties. Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a common microvascular complication of diabetes mellitus (DM). Here, we investigated the protective effect of 1,8-cineole on DR and found that 1,8-cineole treatment could alter the expression of several genes in both high glucose (HG)-induced ARPE-19 cells and retinal tissues of DM mice, as well as inhibit ferroptosis. Subsequent investigations into the molecular mechanisms underlying this inhibition revealed that expression of thioredoxin-interacting protein (TXNIP) was significantly upregulated while that of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPAR-γ) was significantly downregulated in HG-induced ARPE-19 cells, and treatment with 1,8-cineole could effectively reverse these changes. Treatment with a PPAR-γ pharmacological agonist (rosiglitazone), alone or combined with 1,8-cineole, significantly inhibited the transcription of TXNIP and ferroptosis in HG-induced ARPE-19 cells. Conversely, pretreatment with GW9662, a PPAR-γ inhibitor, upregulated the transcription and expression of TXNIP in HG-induced ARPE-19 cells; 1,8-cineole failed to reverse this upregulated expression. To explore these relationships, we constructed a PPAR-γ adenovirus shRNA to elucidate the effect of 1,8-cineole on the negative regulation of TXNIP by PPAR-γ. Taken together, the present findings indicate that HG-induced ferroptosis in retinal tissue plays an essential role in the pathogenesis of DR, which can be ameliorated by 1,8-cineole. [Display omitted] • 1,8-Cineole inhibits ferroptosis and prevents disruption of the outer blood retinal barrier in diabetic mice. • 1,8-Cineole inhibits high glucose (HG)-induced tight junction loss in vitro. • 1,8-Cineole suppresses HG-induced ferroptosis in retinal pigment epithelial cells. • 1,8-Cineole ameliorates diabetic retinopathy by activating PPAR-γ/TXNIP pathways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway is aberrantly activated in most colorectal cancers. High-dose 1,25(OH)2D3 has anticancer effect by regulating Wnt signal pathway. However, it is not clear whether high-dose of 1,25(OH)2D3 have an effect on normal cells. The aim of the present study was to investigate the mechanism of high-dose 1,25(OH)2D3 on the Wnt signaling pathway in bovine intestinal epithelial cells. The potential mechanism of action was investigated after knockdown and overexpression of the Wnt pathway inhibitor, DKK2 , in intestinal epithelial cells by observing the effects of 1,25(OH)2D3 on proliferation, apoptosis, pluripotency and the expression of genes related to the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. In the present study, we introduced the method of isolation and culture of primary bovine intestinal epithelial cells. After cells were treated with 50 ng/mL 1,25(OH)2D3 or DMSO for 48 h, total RNA was extracted, and six differentially expressed genes, including SERPINF1, SFRP2, SFRP4, FZD2, WISP1 and DKK2 were identified by transcriptome sequencing, which were related to Wnt signaling pathway. To further explore the mechanism of 1,25(OH)2D3 on the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, we constructed knockdown and overexpression plasmids of DKK2. After transfecting these plasmids into bovine intestinal epithelial cells, we measured the expression of DKK2 mRNA and protein through GFP expression, qRT-PCR and western blot analyses to verify the transfection efficiency. In addition, the CCK-8 assay was used to detect the cell proliferation rate after transfection. Subsequently, the transfected cells were treated with 1,25(OH)2D3 for 48 h, and the proliferation- (Ki67 and PCNA), apoptosis- (Bcl-2, p53, casp3 and casp8), pluripotency- (Bmi-1, Lrig1, KRT19 and TUFT1) and Wnt/ β-catenin signaling pathway- related genes (LGR5 , DKK2 , VDR, β- Catenin, SFRP2, WISP1 and FZD2) were detected by qRT-PCR and western blot analyses. Our results showed that the expression trend of some genes in bovine intestinal epithelial cells under high-dose 1,25(OH)2D3 was consistent with the sequencing results, including SFRP2 (P < 0.001), SFRP4 (P < 0.05), FZD2 (P < 0.01), WISP1 (P < 0.001) and DKK2 (P < 0.001). In addition, knockdown of DKK2 inhibited cell proliferation (P < 0.01), but DKK2 overexpression promoted cell proliferation (P < 0.01). Compared to the control group, 1,25(OH)2D3 promoted the expression of Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway-related proteins in bovine intestinal epithelium, thus maintaining intestinal homeostasis in normal intestinal epithelium. In addition, knockdown and overexpression of DKK2 indicated that 1,25(OH)2D3 weakened the inhibitory effect of DKK2 on the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. Together, these results suggest that high-dose 1,25(OH)2D3 has no killing effect on normal intestinal epithelial cells and regulates Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway through DKK2. • Take the primary cells of domestic cattle as the test material. • Select intestinal epithelial cells in a healthy physiological state. • Focus on wnt antagonist DKK2 through the analysis of transcriptome sequencing results. • The regulatory mechanism of VD3 on wnt antagonist DKK2 was studied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

1,3-Diketone is a promising oil-based superlubricity material on steel surfaces. However, the achievement of its superlubricity is limited within a particular range of load and velocity. In this study, silica nanoparticles were modified by surface-coated polydopamine and stably dispersed in 1,3-diketone oil as the additive. It suggests that functionalized silica nanoparticles deposited on the steel substrate and repaired the surface pits, which enhanced the superlubricity of EPND with shorter running-in time and smaller wear. Such assistance became more significant for the operation at a higher load or a lower velocity. With the controlled size of wear debris, the superlubricity region of 1,3-diketone could break through its original load (e.g., 16–43 N) and velocity (200–100 mm/s) boundaries. [Display omitted] ● Stable dispersion of functionalized silica nanoparticles in EPND oil. ● Enhanced superlubricity of EPND with shorter running-in time and smaller wear. ● Enlarged superlubricity region of EPND to a higher load or a lower velocity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous studies have shown that inflammatory process contributes to the pathogenesis of cardiac damage induced by diabetes mellitus. However, the underlying mechanisms and strategies to alleviate inflammatory injury in the diabetic heart are not fully elucidated. In this study, we investigated the potential role and related mechanism of bamboo leaf extract (BLE) on diabetes-induced cardiac fibrosis in rats. Diabetes was induced by streptozocin (STZ) in rats, blood glucose and glycosylated hemoglobin A1c (HbAlc) were measured. Super oxide dismutase (SOD) activity and malondialdehyde (MDA) level in rat heart homogenates were tested using special kits. Cardiac function was evaluated by echocardiography, and myocardial histology was detected by hematoxylin eosin (HE) staining and Masson’s trichrome staining. Furthermore, expression of transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), interleukin 6 (IL-6) and Cleaved-cysteinyl aspartate-specific proteinase-3 (Cleaved-caspase-3), and the activity of nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) were examined by western blot analysis. From the data, we found that the BLE treatment inhibits oxidative stress and improved cardiac function in STZ-induced diabetic rats. BLE treatment significantly ameliorated diabetes-induced myocardial morphological changes and cardiac inflammation. Moreover, the protein levels of TGF-β1, IL-6,Cleaved-caspase-3 and the nuclear transcription of NF-κB in the hearts were markedly reduced in diabetic rats result from BLE treatment. In conclusion, this study suggested that BLE ameliorates cardiac fibrosis in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats, and this protective effect possibly through inhibiting inflammation, oxidative stress and apoptosis. BLE might serve as a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of the cardiac fibrosis in diabetic patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Postoperative anemia following elective arthroplasty can lead to prolonged hospital stay and delays in rehabilitation and is often poorly tolerated in patients with cardiovascular disease. Tranexamic acid (TXA) has been shown to reduce perioperative blood loss in total knee arthroplasty (TKA). However, questions over its optimal route of administration remain.Methods: A double-blinded, placebo, multicentered, randomized, controlled trial investigating the efficacy of topical and systemic routes of a single intraoperative dose (1.5 g) of TXA was conducted. Patients undergoing primary, unilateral TKA were screened for eligibility. Eligible patients were consecutively enrolled from 5 New Zealand centers between July 2014 and November 2015. Three prospective groups running in parallel (topical TXA [tTXA], systemic TXA [sTXA], and placebo) were investigated for a primary outcome of estimated perioperative blood loss. An intention-to-treat analysis was used to compare outcomes between the study groups (P value <.05).Results: One hundred and thirty-four patients across the 5 hospitals were recruited into the study. Estimated blood loss was equivalent in the 2 treatment groups, sTXA (749 mL [95% confidence interval, 637-860]) and tTXA (723 mL [620-826]). Compared to the placebo group (1090 mL [923-1257]), blood loss was significantly lower in both treatment groups (P = .001 and P = .0003, respectively). There were no significant differences in secondary outcomes, including rates of symptomatic deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism (P = .759).Conclusion: In the setting of elective TKA, a single 1.5-g dose of tTXA given intraoperatively either systemically or topically effectively reduces blood loss without an increase in complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present randomized prospective study, 2 different surgical techniques of endoscopic plantar fascia release were compared. Of 547 patients with a diagnosis of plantar fasciitis, 46 with no response to conservative treatment for ≥6 months were included. Of the 46 patients, 5 were lost to follow-up. In group 1 (n = 21), plantar fascia release was performed using a deep fascial approach (DFA), and in group 2 (n = 20), the superficial fascial approach (SFA) with a slotted cannula technique was used. Patients were evaluated using the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society Ankle Hindfoot scale and visual analog scale at baseline and 3 weeks and 3, 6, and 12 months after the initial surgery. At the final follow-up appointment, the Roles-Maudsley score was used to determine patient satisfaction. At the final follow-up examination, the mean American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society Ankle-Hindfoot scale scores had increased from 53.12 to 83.68, with a decrease in the mean visual analog scale score from 7.95 to 1.65 noted. According to the Roles-Maudsley score, the success rate after 1 year was 90.47% for DFA group, 95% for the SFA group, and 92.68% for all patients. Although no significant difference was found between the final functional scores, better early postoperative scores were found in the SFA group. The mean duration of the procedure was measured as 27.22 ± 9.41 minutes overall, 35 ± 5.62 minutes in the DFA group, and 19.05 ± 4.01 minutes in the SFA group. Two early and two late complications occurred in the DFA group with none reported in the SFA group. In conclusion, the SFA is a faster and safer method of endoscopic plantar fascia release with better early postoperative scores. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The goal of the present study was to perform a systematic review of the published data on talar neck fractures for a better understanding of the postoperative clinical outcomes using open reduction and internal fixation stratified by Hawkins type. A PubMed search was performed using the keywords “talar,” “neck,” and “fracture.” This search identified 209 potential studies, which were reviewed to yield 16 studies that met the criteria. The surgical outcomes of talar neck fractures stratified by the Hawkins classification analyzed in the present study were as follows: American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society scale score was 77.00 for type I, 86.10 for type II, 68.30 for type III, 68.30 for type IV, and 76.50 for all talar neck fractures. Avascular necrosis presented in 0.00% of type I fractures, 15.91% of type II fractures, 38.89% of type III fractures, 55.00% of type IV fractures, and 26.47% of all fractures. Osteoarthritis presented in 25.00% of type I fractures, 41.33% of type II fractures, 54.23% of type III fractures, 72.73% of type IV fractures, and 51.69% of all fractures. Subtalar arthritis presented in 0.00% of type I fractures, 54.29% of type II fractures, 46.43% of type III fractures, 45.45% of type IV fractures, and 44.97% of all fractures. The malunion prevalence was 13.29% and the nonunion prevalence was 3.97% for all fractures. Type II fractures were the most common (50.88%) fracture type reported in the reports reviewed in the present study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of alkynyl maleimides were prepared via one-step cross-coupling reaction using bromomaleimide and acetylenes under the Sonogashira conditions, affording 1-((4- methoxyphenyl)-3-alkynes)-1H-pyrrole-2,5-diones in good to high yields. These products were subsequently converted in the corresponding 1,2,3-triazole using conventional click chemistry approach. The alkynyl maleimide compound (8g) crystallized in the triclinic space group P1 with unit cell parameters α= 5.3692(6), b=9.2513(10), c = 10.3070(11) Å, a=85.349(4), b =86.892(4), c =86.892(4)°, V =507.31(10) ų, and Z= 1. In the crystal the molecules are stacked parallel to the c axis and held together through a C-H···π and a C-H···O interaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although custom design offers an opportunity for synthesizing molecules with desired emission characteristics, compared with single-state emission, underdeveloped methodologies pose a significant challenge to accessing and further tailoring of dual-state emission. Herein, we report 1,8-naphtholactam (Np) and its derivatives, which not only function as efficient dual-state emitters but also as excellent building blocks for tunable dual-state emitters. By adjusting the π-conjugated donor substituent, bright emission from cyan to red can be facilely tailored in both solution and the solid state, resulting in an approximative full-color emission. Structural analysis reveals that the lactam group of Np works as a two-fold functional unit, simultaneously guaranteeing molecular rigidity for solution emission and hydrogen-bond-modulated packing without detrimental long-range π-π stacking for solid emission. Theoretical calculations corroborate the experimental results and efficient red bioimaging of Human hepatocellular carcinomas (HepG2) cells is achieved after the incubation with an Np derivative. Therefore, our lactam substitution strategy is a new route suitable for achieving efficient and tunable dual-state emitters. We demonstrated a lactam node hydrogen-bonding strategy for achieving highly efficient and tunable dual-state emitters based on the 1,8-naphtholactam skeleton substituted with different π-electron donor moieties. [Display omitted] • Highly efficient and tunable dual-state emitters were constructed from the 1,8-naphtholactam (Np). • The lactam nodes act as two-fold functional units for their dual-state emission behavior. • Efficient red cell imaging was demonstrated after the incubation with Np derivative. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) is a key regulator in the microbiome-gut-brain axis, and AhR-active microbial metabolites modulate multiple neuronal responses. We recently demonstrated that 3,3'-diindolylmethane (DIM) and 1,4-dihydroxy-2-naphthoic acid (DHNA), two selective AhR modulators (SAhRMs), act as antidepressants in female mice. Thus, to examine the role of intestinal AhR in depression, anxiety, and spatial learning, this study employed transgenic mice in which the AhR was knockout only in the intestinal epithelium (AhRΔIEC). Additionally, this study examined whether the antidepressant effects of dietary DIM and DHNA is mediated by intestinal AhR. AhRΔIEC and WT female mice were fed daily with vehicle, 20 mg/kg DIM or DHNA for three weeks prior to four weeks of unpredictable chronic mild stress (UCMS). Mice were examined for weight gain, anhedonia-like behavior (sucrose preference test), anxiety levels (open field, light/dark, elevated plus maze, novelty-induced hypophagia, and marble burying tests), and spatial learning (Morris water maze). UCMS reduced weight gain in AhRΔIECs, but not WTs. Moreover, UCMS initially reduced sucrose preference in both AhRΔIECs and WTs, but over 4 weeks of UCMS, AhRΔIECs develop resilience to UCMS-induced anhedonia. Additionally, AhRΔIECs exhibit slightly reduced anxiety in certain tests and faster spatial learning. DIM and DHNA acted as antidepressants in both AhRΔIECs and WTs. Thus, this study suggests that intestinal AhR plays differential roles, mitigating stress effects on weight gain, and increasing stress effects on mood. However, the site of antidepressant action of SAhRMs, such as DIM and DHNA, is not dependent on the expression of intestinal AhR. [Display omitted] • UCMS reduces weight gain in AhRKOs, but not WTs. • AhRKOs, but not WTs, develop resilience to the anhedonic effects of UCMS. • AhRKOs exhibit slightly reduced anxiety and faster spatial learning. • Intestinal AhR plays differential role in the effects of stress on weight and mood. • The antidepressant effect of AhR ligands is not mediated via intestinal AhR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Leaf extracts of Pterocarpus santalinoides DC are traditionally used to ameliorate ageing-related ailments such as heart and liver diseases, and have been reported to be protective against toxic injuries to the liver. This study aimed to isolate and characterize the hepatoprotective/hepatotherapeutic principle in the methanol leaf extract of P. santalinoides. Fresh leaves of P. santalinoides were dried under shade and ground into powder. The ground leaves (2 Kg) were extracted with 80% methanol by maceration. Fractionation was carried out using column and thin layer chromatography techniques. Bioassay of fractions and sub-fractions was done using carbon tetrachloride (CCl 4)-induced hepatotoxicity model in albino rats. Phytochemical analysis was carried out on the active compound. Characterization and structural elucidation of the active compound using high performance liquid chromatography and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy was done. Extraction yielded 260 g dry extract. Six fractions (F1, F2, F3, F4, F5 and F6) were obtained after column and thin layer chromatography, with F6 (R f = 0.78; Yield = 2.13 g) being the most active hepatotherapeutic fraction that significantly (p < 0.05) lowered serum ALT activity and increased serum albumin levels in CCl 4 -induced hepatopathy in albino rats. Further separation of F6 yielded four sub-fractions (F6 1, F6 2 , F6 3 and F6 4), of which F6 1 with an R f of 0.85 and a yield of 30.0 mg was isolated as the active hepatotherapeutic compound. Stiasny and ferric chloride test of F6 1 showed the presence of tannins in the fraction. Characterization of F6 1 revealed 1, 3-di-ortho-galloyl quinic acid. The hepatoprotective/hepatotherapeutic principle in the methanol extract of the leaves of P. santalinoides was identified as 1, 3-di-ortho-galloyl quinic acid. [Display omitted] • Leaves of Pterocarpus santalinoides are traditionally used to treat liver diseases. • The hepatotherapeutic principle in P. santalinoides methanol leaf extract was isolated. • Fraction 6 & sub-fraction 6 1 of extract were hepatotherapeutic in hepatopathic rats. • The hepatotherapeutic principle (sub-fraction 6 1) is 1, 3-di-O-galloyl quinic acid. • This is the first report of such bioassay-guided isolation & characterization of 1, 3-di-O-galloyl quinic acid from Pterocarpus santalinoides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbonaceous materials have emerged as a method of persulfate activation for remediation. In this study, persulfate activation using powdered activated carbon (PAC) was demonstrated at temperatures relevant to groundwater (5–25 °C). At room temperature, increasing doses of PAC (1–20 g L-1) led to increased persulfate activation (3.06 × 10-6s-1 to 2.10 × 10-4 with 1 and 20 g L-1 PAC). Activation slowed at lower temperatures (5 and 11 °C); however, substantial (>70 %) persulfate activation was achieved. PAC characterization showed that persulfate is activated at the surface of the PAC, as indicated by an increase in the PAC C:O ratio. Similarly, electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy studies with a spin trapping agents (5,5-dimethyl-1-pyrroline N-oxide (DMPO)) and 2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidine (TEMP) revealed that singlet oxygen was not the main oxidizing species in the reaction. DMPO was oxidized to form 5,5-dimethylpyrrolidone-2(2)-oxyl-(1) (DMPOX), which forms in the presence of strong oxidizers, such as sulfate radicals. The persulfate/PAC system is demonstrated to simultaneously degrade both perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and 1,4-dioxane at room temperature and 11 °C. With a 20 g L-1 PAC and 75 mM persulfate, 80 % and 70 % of the PFOA and 1,4-dioxane, respectively, degraded within 6 h at room temperature. At 11 °C, the same PAC and persulfate doses led to 57% dioxane degradation and 54 % PFOA degradation within 6 h. Coupling PAC with persulfate offers an effective, low-cost treatment for simultaneous destruction of 1,4-dioxane and PFOA. [Display omitted] • Persulfate is activated by powder activated carbon (PAC) at temperatures less than 25 °C. • Co-contaminants 1,4-dioxane and perfluorooctanoic acid are degraded at relevant temperatures. • Targeted and non-targeted mass spectrometry are used to establish PFOA degradation mechanism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]