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Phytochemical study on 90% ethanol extract from the green walnut husks of Juglans mandshurica Maxim. resulted into the isolation of three undescribed triterpenoids, juglansmanoids A–C (1–3). Structural elucidation of all the compounds were performed by spectral methods such as 1D and 2D (1H-1H COSY, HMQC, and HMBC) NMR spectroscopy, in addition to high resolution mass spectrometry. The isolated components were evaluated in vitro for anti-hyaluronidase activities. As a result, triterpenoid 1 exhibited potent anti-hyaluronidase activity (IC50 = 9.78 μg/ml) three times more than the positive control drug oleanolic acid (IC50 = 40.12 μg/ml). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Copyright of Shipin Kexue/ Food Science is the property of Food Science Editorial Department and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

As the famous white porcelain kilns in ancient China, Xing Kiln and Ding Kiln have similarity appearance because they have similarities of modeling and firing methods of utensils during their development, but their colors are still described through eye observation, and no scientific comparative analysis has been conducted. Colorimetry has the advantage of quantitative analysis in studying the color of ceramic compared with the traditional naked eye observation description. Therefore, the representative samples of white porcelain of Xing and Ding Kilns from Tang Dynasty to Jin Dynasty were selected for colorimetric analysis with CIE. The color similarity and changes of the two kilns in different times were analyzed, the results showed that appearance color of the samples from the Xing and Ding Kilns are similar to that observed by the naked eye. Moreover, the results show two different color types of the samples in the Tang dynasty from both Ding and Xing kilns. Type II is typical of northern white porcelain as previous studies, but type I is closer to greenish white porcelain. They were found, and this was supposed to be the result of Ding Kiln's imitation of the Xing Kiln in its early days. However, since Xing Kiln has been discontinued in Song Dynasty, only type II was found in the white porcelain of Xing Kiln and Ding Kiln after Tang Dynasty. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Chinese Institute of Food Science & Technology / Zhongguo Shipin Xuebao is the property of Journal of Chinese Institute of Food Science & Technology Periodical Office and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

According to ancient literature, Prunella vulgaris L. (P vulgaris) alleviates mastitis and has been used in China for many years; however, there are no relevant reports that confirm this or the mechanism of its efficacy. To explore the anti-acute mastitis effect and potential mechanism of P vulgaris extract. First, the active ingredients and targets of P vulgaris against mastitis were predicted using network pharmacology. Next, the relevant active ingredients were enriched using macroporous resins and verified using UV and UPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS. Lastly, a mouse model of acute mastitis was established by injecting lipopolysaccharides into the mammary gland and administering P vulgaris extract by oral gavage. The pathological changes in mammary tissue were observed by HE staining. Serum and tissue inflammatory factors were measured by ELISA method. MPO activity in mammary tissue was measured using colorimetry and MPO expression was detected by immunohistochemistry. The expression of tight junction proteins (ZO-1, claudin-3, and occludin) in mammary tissue was detected by immunofluorescence and Western blot. iNOS and COX-2 in mammary tissue were detected by Western blot. MAPK pathway and NF-κB pathway related proteins were also detected by Western blot. Network pharmacology predicted that phenolic acids and flavonoids in P vulgaris had anti-mastitis effects. The contents of total flavonoids and total phenolic acids in P vulgaris extract were 64.5% and 29.4%, respectively. UPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS confirmed that P vulgaris extract contained phenolic acids and flavonoids. The results of animal experiments showed that P vulgaris extract reduced lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammatory edema, inflammatory cell infiltration, and interstitial congestion of mammary tissue. It also reduced the levels of serum and tissue inflammatory factors TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β, and inhibited the activation of MPO. Furthermore, it downregulated the expression of MAPK and NF-κB pathway-related proteins. The expressions of ZO-1, occludin, and claudin-3 in mammary gland tissues were upregulated. P vulgaris extract can maintain the integrity of mammary connective tissue and reduce its inflammatory response to prevent acute mastitis. Its mechanism probably involves regulating NF-κB and MAPK pathways. [Display omitted] • Phenolic acids and flavonoids in P vulgaris may be effective ingredients of Prunella vulgaris L for anti-mastitis. • Experimental evidence supports P vulgaris as a potential remedy for acute mastitis. • UPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS confirms phenolic acids and flavonoids in P vulgaris extract. • P vulgaris extract can improve the inflammatory reaction in the mammary gland tissue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Sex hormones are strongly linked to the occurrence and development of diabetes, and influence glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels in diabetic population; but, the relationship between sex hormones and HbA1c in non-diabetic population remains unknown. This study aimed to explore the extent of influence of sex hormones on HbA1c levels in non-diabetic population. Methods: A total of 1409 non–diabetic subjects, including 601 men and 808 postmenopausal women were recruited from Shanghai community. HbA1c was detected using high performance liquid chromatography, and hemoglobin level was determined by sodium lauryl sulfate colorimetry. Serum estradiol (E2), total testosterone (TT), and sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) were measured by chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassays. Results: The level of HbA1c was 5.6 (5.4–5.9) % in all subjects, with 5.6 (5.4–5.8) % in men and 5.7 (5.5–5.9) % in postmenopausal women. After adjusting for age, body mass index (BMI), and hemoglobin, E2 was positively correlated with HbA1c in men (r = 0.122, P =.003), and SHBG was inversely correlated with HbA1c (r = − 0.125, P <.001) in women. Other hormones were not correlated with HbA1c (all P >.05). Multivariate linear regression analysis showed that, except for traditional factors, such as age, hemoglobin, and BMI, E2 was another determinant of HbA1c (standardized β = 0.137, P =.003) in men; besides, in women, SHBG was another determinant of HbA1c (standardized β = − 0.178, P <.001), except for age and systolic blood pressure. Conclusion: After controlling for confounding factors, two sex hormones, as E2 and SHBG could influence HbA1c levels in non-diabetic population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Material degradation has marked impact on the long-term properties and service life of membrane structures. This study is aimed at assessing and understanding the deterioration in visual aspect, surface microstructure, and mechanical properties of a polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) polymer after engineering applications. Three groups of PVDF-coated fabrics were removed from different membrane structures in China, which have been used for 15, 16, and 19 years, respectively. Firstly, spectrocolorimetry tests were carried out to determine the evolution of chromaticity and lightness. Other methods such as contact angle and thickness measurements were used to characterize the physical properties. Then, surface morphology was observed by using scanning electron microscope (SEM) technology. Moreover, a series of uniaxial tensile tests and tearing tests were performed to obtain the mechanical indicators including uniaxial tensile strength, strain at break, tearing strength, and uniaxial elastic modulus. In order to further study the degradation mechanism, infrared spectroscopy was used to characterize the molecular structure of aged fabrics. Finally, Principal Component Analysis (PCA) provided a comprehensive description of correlations between surface microstructure, physical properties, and mechanical properties. This paper offers a further understanding of the design, qualification, and durability evaluation of membrane structures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of China Textile Leader is the property of China Textile Information Center and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of China Brewing is the property of China Brewing Editorial Office and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Introduction: The objective of the present study was to investigate the influence of cigarette smoking on serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) calcium levels in Chinese heavy smokers. Methods: One hundred and sixty-seven male subjects were divided into non-smokers (95) and heavy smokers (72). Serum and CSF calcium concentrations were assayed. Smoking status was recorded and the degree of nicotine dependence (FNTD) was assessed by questionnaire. Analysis of variance was performed to assess the differences among dichotomous groups. Partial correlations between calcium level and FNTD scores were calculated. Results: In this population-based study, heavy smokers had significantly lower serum calcium levels than did non-smokers (p <.01). There was no difference in CSF calcium levels between heavy smokers and non-smokers. The average number of cigarettes smoked per day contributed to the decreased serum calcium levels in heavy smokers, while the age of smoking onset and smoking years did not affect serum levels within the smoker group. Furthermore, serum calcium levels negatively correlated with FNTD items 1, 4, 5, 6 and total scores; however, no correlation between CSF calcium levels and FNTD scores was found. Conclusions: Serum calcium levels decreased significantly in Chinese heavy smokers and were associated with the average number of cigarettes smoked per day and the degree of nicotine dependence in heavy smokers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ｃｏｎｔｅｎｔｓ ｏｆ ｆａｔｔｙ ａｃｉｄｓ ａｎｄ ｏｘａｌｉｃ ａｃｉｄ ｉｎ ｔｈｅ ｓｔｅｍｓ ａｎｄ ｌｅａｖｅｓ ｏｆ ｐｕｒｓｌａｎｅ (Ｐｏｒｔｕｌａｃａ ｏｌｅｒａｃｅａ) ｆｒｏｍ ｔｅｎ ｄｉｆ￣ ｆｅｒｅｎｔ ｓｏｕｒｃｅｓ ｗｅｒｅ ｄｅｔｅｒｍｉｎｅｄ ｂｙ ｇａｓ ｃｈｒｏｍａｔｏｇｒａｐｈｙ ａｎｄ ｃｏｌｏｒｉｍｅｔｒｙ. Ｔｈｅ ｒｅｓｕｌｔｓ ｗｅｒｅ ａｓ ｆｏｌｌｏｗｓ: (１) Ｔｈｅ ｃｏｎｔｅｎｔｓ ｏｆ ｆａｔｔｙ ａｃｉｄｓ ａｎｄ ｏｘａｌｉｃ ａｃｉｄ ｉｎ ｔｈｅ ｓｔｅｍｓ ａｎｄ ｌｅａｖｅｓ ｏｆ ｔｅｎ ｄｉｆｆｅｒｅｎｔ ｇｅｎｏｔｙｐｅｓ ｏｆ ｐｕｒｓｌａｎｅ ｓｈｏｗｅｄ ｓｉｇｎｉｆｉｃａｎｔ ｄｉｆｆｅｒｅｎｃｅｓ. (２) Ｃｏｍｐａｒｅｄ ｗｉｔｈ ｔｈｅ ｌｅａｖｅｓ, ｔｈｅ ｃｏｎｔｅｎｔ ｏｆ ｆａｔｔｙ ａｃｉｄｓ ｉｎ ｔｈｅ ｓｔｅｍｓ ｗａｓ ｒｅｌａｔｉｖｅｌｙ ｌｏｗ. Ｐｏｌｙｕｎｓａｔｕｒａｔｅｄ ｆａｔ￣ ｔｙ ａｃｉｄｓ ｗｅｒｅ ｄｏｍｉｎａｎｔ ｉｎ ｔｈｅ ｓｔｅｍｓ ａｎｄ ｌｅａｖｅｓ ｏｆ ｐｕｒｓｌａｎｅ. Ｔｗｏ ｋｉｎｄｓ ｏｆ ｐｏｌｙｕｎｓａｔｕｒａｔｅｄ ｆａｔｔｙ ａｃｉｄｓ, ω￣３ ａｎｄ ω￣６ ｆａｔｔｙ ａｃｉｄｓ ｗｅｒｅ ｄｅｔｅｃｔｅｄ, ｗｈｉｃｈ ａｃｃｏｕｎｔｅｄ ｆｏｒ ６２.７１％－７０.９１％ ａｎｄ ９.３０％－１３.３１％ ｉｎ ｔｈｅ ｌｅａｖｅｓ, ２６.０４％－３６.０２％ ａｎｄ ３１.６１％－４３.１９％ ｉｎ ｔｈｅ ｓｔｅｍｓ ｏｆ ｔｈｅ ｔｏｔａｌ ｃｏｎｔｅｎｔｓ ｏｆ ｆａｔｔｙ ａｃｉｄｓ ｉｎ ｐｕｒｓｌａｎｅ, ｒｅｓｐｅｃｔｉｖｅｌｙ. Ａｍｏｎｇ ｔｈｅｍ, ｔｈｅｒｅ ｗｅｒｅ ｓｉｇ￣ ｎｉｆｉｃａｎｔｌｙ ｈｉｇｈｅｒ ｃｏｎｔｅｎｔｓ ｏｆ w￣３ ｆａｔｔｙ ａｃｉｄｓ ｉｎ ｔｈｅ ｌｅａｖｅｓ ｏｆ ‘Ｊｉｎｈｕ, Ｃｈｉｎａ ｌｏｃａｌ’ ａｎｄ ‘Ｎａｎｙａｎｇ, Ｃｈｉｎａ ｌｏｃａｌ’ ａｎｄ ｔｈｅ ｓｔｅｍｓ ｏｆ ‘Ｊｉｎｈｕ, Ｃｈｉｎａ ｌｏｃａｌ’, ｃｏｍｐａｒｅｄ ｗｉｔｈ ｏｔｈｅｒ ｇｅｎｏｔｙｐｅｓ ｉｎ ｔｈｅ ｓａｍｅ ｏｒｇａｎ. Ｔｈｅ w￣６/ w￣３ ｒａｔｉｏｓ ｏｆ ｄｏｍｅｓｔｉｃ ｐｕｒｓ￣ ｌａｎｅ ｇｅｎｏｔｙｐｅｓ ｗｅｒｅ ｓｉｇｎｉｆｉｃａｎｔｌｙ ｌｏｗｅｒ ｔｈａｎ ｔｈｏｓｅ ｏｆ ｆｏｒｅｉｇｎ ｇｅｎｏｔｙｐｅｓ, ｅｓｐｅｃｉａｌｌｙ ｉｎ ｔｈｅ ｓｔｅｍｓ. (３) Ｔｈｅ ｏｘａｌｉｃ ａｃｉｄ ｃｏｎ￣ ｔｅｎｔｓ ｉｎ ｔｈｅ ｓｔｅｍｓ ｏｆ ｐｕｒｓｌａｎｅ ｗｅｒｅ ｓｉｇｎｉｆｉｃａｎｔｌｙ ｈｉｇｈｅｒ ｔｈａｎ ｔｈｏｓｅ ｉｎ ｔｈｅ ｌｅａｖｅｓ. Ｏｘａｌｉｃ ａｃｉｄ ｗａｓ ｆｏｕｎｄ ｓｉｇｎｉｆｉｃａｎｔ ａｃｃｕ￣ ｍｕｌａｔｉｏｎ ｉｎ ｔｈｅ ｓｔｅｍｓ ｏｆ ‘Ｓｈａｎｄｏｎｇ, Ｃｈｉｎａ ｌｏｃａｌ’, ‘Ｉｒａｎ’ ａｎｄ ‘Ｐａｋｉｓｔａｎ’. Ａｎｄ ｔｈｅｒｅ ｗａｓ ｎｏ ｓｉｇｎｉｆｉｃａｎｔ ｄｉｆｆｅｒｅｎｃｅ ｉｎ ｏｘａｌｉｃ ａｃｉｄ ｃｏｎｔｅｎｔｓ ｉｎ ｔｈｅ ｓｔｅｍｓ ｏｆ ｏｔｈｅｒ ｇｅｎｏｔｙｐｅｓ. Ｔｈｅｒｅｆｏｒｅ, ｐｕｒｓｌａｎｅ ｉｓ ｓｕｉｔａｂｌｅ ｆｏｒ ｅａｒｌｙ ｈａｒｖｅｓｔ. Ｐｕｒｓｌａｎｅ ｆｒｏｍ ‘Ｊｉｎ￣ ｈｕ, Ｃｈｉｎａ ｌｏｃａｌ’ ａｎｄ ‘Ｎａｎｙａｎｇ, Ｃｈｉｎａ ｌｏｃａｌ’, ｅｓｐｅｃｉａｌｌｙ ‘Ｊｉｎｈｕ, Ｃｈｉｎａ ｌｏｃａｌ’ ｉｓ ａ ｋｉｎｄ ｏｆ ｐｕｒｓｌａｎｅ ｗｏｒｔｈｙ ｏｆ ｒｅｓｅａｒｃｈ ｆｕｒｔｈｅｒ ａｎｄ ｒｅｃｏｍｍｅｎｄａｔｉｏｎ ｆｏｒ ｇｅｎｅｒａｌｉｚａｔｉｏｎ. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ethnopharmacological relevance Atherosclerosis (AS) is the major pathogenic component of coronary artery and cardiovascular disease. Studies have increasingly focused on natural medicines that have lipid-lowering, anti-inflammatory, and endothelial–protection activities. Black mulberry fruits are traditionally used in Uyghur folk medicine for the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular diseases in southern Xinjiang region of China. However, its underlying mechanisms remain unknown. Thus, our objective was to explore the effects and underlying mechanisms of ethanol extract of black mulberry (EEBM) in experimental atherosclerotic rats. Materials and methods The black mulberry fruit was extracted with acid ethanol and chromatographed on an AB-8 macroporous resin to obtain EEBM. Atherosclerotic rats were divided into five groups: normal, model, model plus simvastatin (5 mg/kg d·body weight), and model plus low-dose and high-dose EEBM groups (105 and 210 mg/kg d·body weight, respectively). Serum lipid profiles were measured by an automatic biochemistry analyser. The activities of anti-oxidative enzymes were determined using the chemical colorimetric method. Pathological changes in liver and arteries were examined by hematoxylin and eosin (H&E), and the intima-media thickness was measured. Results The high-dose EEBM group showed significantly reduced total cholesterol, triglyceride, and low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol levels, as well as atherogenic index. Furthermore, treatment with high-dose EEBM markedly decreased malondialdehyde content and enhanced anti-oxidative enzyme activities. Histopathological examination showed that EEBM attenuated hepatic steatosis and reduced intima-media thickness and arterial atherosclerotic lesions in atherosclerotic rats. These results suggest that EEBM suppressed atherosclerosis development in atherosclerotic rats by regulating lipid metabolism abnormalities, enhancing anti-oxidative activities, and reducing atherosclerotic lesions, which could be attributed to anthocyanins (23.75%), or the cooperative action of anthocyanins, polyphenols (2.95%), and flavonoids (0.94%). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ethnopharmacological relevance Astilboides tabularis has a long history of usage as the functional food with the effect of adjunctive therapy of diabetic in northeast of China. The present study was undertaken to assess anti-diabetic activity of the aqueous extract of leaves of A. tabularis and provided experimental evidence for the clinical usage of A. tabularis in the treatment of diabetes mellitus. Materials and methods The aqueous extracts of leaves of A. tabularis (EAT) were orally administered at 300 and 600 mg/kg dose to epinephrine-induced and alloxan-induced diabetes mice. Hypoglycemic effects, change in body weight, water intake, food intake, lipid profile and lipid peroxidant were assessed. Furthermore, the main chemical components of EAT were isolated and high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis was employed to identify the phytochemical composition of the plant extract. The finally, total flavonoids content and total phenolic content were quantified by colorimetric assay. Results EAT showed a significant reduction in blood glucose level at both 300 and 600 mg/kg (ig). In addition, EAT also exhibited a profound antioxidant effect for increasing SOD and GSH-px activity and decreasing TBARS activity at both low and high dose. Furthermore, EAT also could significantly decrease the contents of TC and TG. The 8 main constituents of EAT are also isolated and characterized and the content of total flavonoid and total phenolic are 22% and 25% in EAT respectively. Conclusion The present investigation revealed that EAT possess potent anti-diabetic activity and polyphenol compounds may be the main active ingredients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A sesquiterpene coumarin, sinkiangenorin E, consisting of a novel bicyclo[4.3.1]decane-type sesquiterpene system, was isolated from the seeds ofFerula sinkiangensis. The structure of sinkiangenorin E including the relative stereochemistry and the absolute configuration was elucidated on the basis of spectroscopic data. The new compound showed cytotoxic activity against AGS cells (IC50, 12.7 μM) and inhibiting effect against influenza A H1N1(IC50, 4.0 μM), which provided important clues for the study on the bioactivities of this type of sesquiterpene coumarins. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Four new dianthrone glycosides, named polygonumnolides C1-C4 (1–4), were isolated from the dried roots ofPolygonum multiflorumThunb, together with two known emodin dianthrones (5–6). Their hepatotoxicities were evaluated against L-02 cell lines. Compounds1–4showed weak hepatotoxicity against L-02 cell lines with IC50values of 313.05, 205.20, 294.20, and 207.35 μM, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Purpose: Currently, obesity has become a worldwide health problem. Adipocyte differentiation is closely associated with the onset of obesity. Our previous studies suggested that persimmon tannin might be a potent anti-adipogenic dietary bioactive compound. However, the mechanism of persimmon tannin on adipocyte differentiation is still unknown. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of persimmon tannin on adipogenic differentiation in 3T3-L1 preadipocytes and the underlying mechanisms. Methods: Adipogenic differentiation was induced by cocktail in the presence or absence of persimmon tannin. Intracellular lipid accumulation was determined by Oil red O staining and enzymatic colorimetric methods. Gene expression and protein levels were measured by real time RT-PCR and Western blot. Results: Persimmon tannin inhibited intracellular lipid accumulation markedly, and the inhibitory effect was largely limited to the early stage of adipocyte differentiation. Persimmon tannin suppressed the expression of C/EBPα and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ (PPARγ), significantly. Furthermore, genes related to lipogenesis, such as sterol regulatory element-binding protein 1, were down-regulated by persimmon tannin. In addition, adipocyte fatty acid binding protein (aP2), which is a target gene of PPARγ, was suppressed by persimmon tannin notably. Correspondingly, the expression of miR-27a and miR-27b were up-regulated by persimmon tannin from Day 2 to Day 8 significantly. Conclusion: Persimmon tannin inhibited adipocyte differentiation through regulation of PPARγ, C/EBPα and miR-27 in early stage of adipogenesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tet is a type of alkaloid extracted from Stephania tetrandra, and it has recently been demonstrated that Tet can protect against inflammation and free radical injury and inhibit the release of inflammatory mediators. The present study was designed to observe the protective effect of Tet on sodium taurocholate-induced severe acute pancreatitis (SAP). The rat model of SAP was induced by retrograde bile duct injection of sodium taurocholate and then treated with Verapamil and Tet. The results showed that Tet can reduce NF-κB activation in pancreas issue, inhibit the SAP cascade, and improve SAP through inducing pancreas acinar cell apoptosis and stabilizing intracellular calcium in the pancreas, thus mitigating the damage to the pancreas. Our study revealed that Tet may reduce systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) and multiple organ dysfunction syndromes (MODS) to protect against damage, and these roles may be mediated through the NF-κB pathway to improve the proinflammatory/anti-inflammatory imbalance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recineckea carnea and Tupistra chinensis collected from the Guizhou province (China) were evaluated in this study. Petroleum ether fractions from the two herbs were subjected to gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis; 10 species, which were fatty acids or aliphatic esters, were identified. The antimicrobial activities of a variety of extracts were evaluated against four microorganisms. The methanol extract (ME), chloroform fraction, and ethyl acetate fraction from T. chinensis exhibited antimicrobial activities comparable to standard antibiotics, whereas none of the investigated extracts from R. carnea demonstrated any antimicrobial activities. The antioxidant potential was evaluated in vitro using ferric-reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) and the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazil (DPPH) radical method. The FRAP value of the ME from T. chinensis (4.19±0.088 mmol/g) was found to be significantly higher than the analogous extract from R. carnea (2.39±0.092 mmol/g); the EC50 of the ME from R. carnea (0.32±0.011 mg/mL) was found to be significantly higher than that of T. chinensis (0.30±0.015 mg/mL). Total phenolic content was estimated by the Folin-Ciocalteu's colorimetric method. A positive correlation was found between total phenolic content and antioxidant activities (FRAP value and the reciprocal of EC50). The results suggested that the phenolic compounds contributed significantly to the antioxidant capacity of R. carnea and T. chinensis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Anthocyanin biosynthesis in red sarcocarp hawthorn formation have not been reported. • 21 anthocyanin metabolites expressed differently between red sarcocarp cultivar 'Xinglongzirou' and white sarcocarp cultivar 'Bairangmian'. • Structural genes Cp4CLL7, CpDFR , and CpLAR and transcription factors CpERF1B, CpARF7, CpIAA27, CpMYB4 , and CpbHLH18 involved in hawthorn anthocyanin biosynthesis were firstly identified. The red sarcocarp hawthorn (Crataegus pinnatifida) 'Xinglongzirou' (XZ) is the unique red sarcocarp resource among the cultivated hawthorn varieties in China, which has important production and breeding value and is also an important material for the research of hawthorn anthocyanin biosynthesis. So far, no genes related to anthocyanin biosynthesis in hawthorn have been reported. In this study, anthocyanins and the genes responsible for their synthesis were identified by comparing the red 'Xinglongzirou' and white 'Bairangmian' sarcocarp varieties. Sarcocarp color measurement and phenotype observation revealed that anthocyanin biosynthesis began 90 days after full-bloom (DAFB90), color turning at DAFB110, and maturation at DAFB150. Liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry identified 21 anthocyanin metabolites expressed differently between 'Xinglongzirou' and 'Bairangmian' (P < 0.05). Transcriptome analysis at DAFB90, DAFB110, and DAFB150 identified three structural genes (Cp4CLL7, CpDFR , and CpLAR) and five transcription factors (CpERF1B, CpARF7, CpIAA27, CpMYB4 , and CpbHLH18) involved in hawthorn anthocyanin biosynthesis and red sarcocarp formation. The candidate genes and transcription factors identified in this study will provide an important reference for the research of anthocyanin biosynthesis and transcription regulatory mechanism in red sarcocarp hawthorn. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Four new sesquiterpenes (1–4), together with four known compounds (5–8), were isolated from the stems of Pogostemon cablin (Blanco.) Benth. Their chemical structures were elucidated by means of spectroscopic methods, including 1D and 2D NMR, HRESIMS, IR, and UV. Hepatoprotective activities of these compounds were investigated, by studying the protective effect on HL-7702 cellular injury induced by dl-galactosamine. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Ethnopharmacologica relevance: Picrasma quassiodes (D. Don) Benn. (PQB) is a widely used herbal medicine used for gastroenteritis, snakebite, infection and hypertension in China. The aim of the study was to investigate the possible antihypertensive mechanisms on spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) of the extract from Picrasma quassiodes (D. Don) Benn. Materials and methods: In the in vivo study, extract from Picrasma quassiodes (D. Don) Benn. at the dose of 50, 100, 200mg/kg and captopril (12.5mg/kg) were administrated to different group of SHR rats by gavage for six consecutive weeks after the blood pressures were firstly measured. At the end of the study, rats serum nitric oxide (NO) was measured by the nitrate reductase method; superoxide dismutase (SOD) and malondialdehyde (MDA) activities were measured by the colorimetric method; the expression of aorta endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) was measured by immunohistochemical analysis. Results: The results showed that the oral administration of PQB could lower the systolic blood pressure (SBP) of SHR rats. In addition, the serum level of NO in SHR treated with PQB (100 and 200mg/kg) was increased dramatically (P<0.05, P<0.01), but administration with captopril had no significant effect. The expression of aorta eNOS was markedly increased when treated with PQB. The serum SOD levels were increased with treatment of PQB (100 and 200mg/kg; P<0.05, P<0.01). All the effects of these parameters were comparable to that of the SHR control group. Conclusions: Our results disclosed that PQB is effective to lower blood pressure of SHR, its antihypertensive effect is probably associated with lowering oxidative stress by reducing SOD activity, preserving endothelial function and increasing the expression of eNOS to regulate NO and directly relax artery. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Chemical investigation of 50% ethanol eluate fraction of macroporous resin for the flower of Datura metel L. collected in Jiangsu province of China resulted in the isolation of two novel naturally occurring norwithasteroids, baimantuoluoline I (1) and baimantuoluoside J (2). Their structures were elucidated as 5α, 6β, 12β-trihydroxy-1-oxo-2-en-ergosta-21,24;22,29-diepoxy-26-carboxylic acid (1) and 5α, 6/3,12/3,25-tetrahydroxy-l-oxo-2-en-ergosta-21,24;22,29-diepoxy-26-carboxylic acid (2) on the basis of extensive spectroscopic analysis, including ID, 2D-NMR, and HR-ESI-MS. According to the literatures, this study represents the first report of the norwithasteroids in the side chain with unusual six- and seven-membered ether rings instead of those with an unmodified skeleton (δ-lactone or δ-lactol side chain) and a modified skeleton (γ-lactone or γ-lactol side chain) in the family of withanolides. Meanwhile, compounds 1 and 2 were evaluated for their immunosuppressive activity against mice splenocyte proliferation in vitro. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Decursin (D), purified from Angelica gigas Nakai, has been proven to exert neuroprotective property. Previous study revealed that D reduced Aβ25-35-induced cytotoxicity in PC12 cells. Our study explored the underlying mechanisms by which D mediates its therapeutic effects in vitro. Pretreatment of cells with D diminished intracellular generation of ROS in response to Aβ25-35. Western blot revealed that D significantly increased the expression and activity of HO-1, which was correlated with its protection against Aβ25-35-induced injury. Addition of ZnPP, an HO-1 competitive inhibitor, significantly attenuated its protective effect in Aβ25-35-treated cells, indicating the vital role of HO-1 resistance to oxidative injury. Moreover, D induced Nrf2 nuclear translocation, the upstream of HO-1 expression. While investigating the signaling pathways responsible for HO-1 induction, D activated ERK and dephosphorylated p38 in PC12 cells. Addition of U0126, a selective inhibitor of ERK, blocked D-induced Nrf2 activation and HO-1 induction and meanwhile reversed the protection of D against Aβ25-35-induced cell death. These findings suggest D augments cellular antioxidant defense capacity through both intrinsic free radical scavenging activity and activation of MAPK signal pathways that leads to Nrf2 activation, and subsequently HO-1 induction, thereby protecting the PC12 cells from Aβ25-35-induced oxidative cytotoxicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to elucidate the antitumor activity of norcantharidin (NCTD) against human mantle cell lymphoma (MCL). Cell proliferation and apoptosis were examined by MTS and flow cytometry. Caspase-3, -8, and -9 activities were detected with a colorimetric caspase protease assay. Apoptotic proteins --including PARP, cyclin Dl, Bcl-2 family proteins, XIAP, and cIAP I -- were studied by western blot. The phosphoinositide 3 kinase (PI3K) inhibitor LY294002 was used to investigate the involvement of the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway. In vivo studies were performed using Z138 cell xenografts in nude mice. NCTD inhibited proliferation and induced apoptosis of Z138 and Mino cells, both in vitro and in vivo. PI3Kp100α and p-Akt expressions were downregulated by NCTD treatment. NCTD downregulated NF-kB activity by preventing NF-kB phosphorylation and nuclear translocation. This effect was correlated with the suppression of NF-kB-regulated gene products, such as cyclin Dl, BAX, survivin, Bcl-2, XIAP, and cIAP. This phenomenon was blocked by the PI3K inhibitor LY294002. Our results demonstrated that NCTD can induce growth arrest and apoptosis in MCL cells and that the mechanism may involve the PI3K/Akt/NF-kB signaling pathway. NCTD may have therapeutic and/or adjuvant therapeutic applications in the treatment of MCL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To investigate the molecular mechanisms by which Qianliening Capsule (前列宁胶囊, QC) treats benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Methods: Human prostate stromal cell line WPMY-1 was treated with 0, 1, 3 and 5 mg/mL of QC for 24, 48 and 72 h, respectively, in the presence of 10 ng/mL basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF). The viability of WPMY-1 cells was determined by 3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. Cell morphology was observed by phase-contrast microscopy. 4′,6-diamidino-2-phenylindole (DAPI) staining and fluorescence activated cell sorting (FACS) analysis with Annexin-V/propidium iodide (PI) staining were performed to determine cell apoptosis. The loss of mitochondrial membrane potential was examined by FACS analysis with 5,5′,6,6′-tetrachloro-1,1′,3,3′-tetraethylbenzimidazolyl-carbocyarine iodide (JC-1) staining. Activation of caspase-3 and -9 was evaluated by colorimetric assay. The mRNA and protein expression levels of Bcl-2 and Bax were measured by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and Western blotting, respectively. Results: Upon bFGF stimulation, the viability of WPMY-1 cells was increased to 122%-118% compared with the control cells ( P <0.05). However, treatment with 1-5 mg/mL of QC for 24, 48 and 72 h decreased the viability of bFGF-stimulated cells to 80%-92%, 59%-82%, 36%-62% compared with the untreated cells ( P <0.05). In addition, QC treatment reduced WPMY-1 cell density in a dose-dependent manner. Moreover, QC treatment dose-dependently induced the loss of plasma membrane asymmetry, the nuclear condensation and fragmentation, collapse of mitochondrial membrane potential, activation of caspase-9 and caspase-3, and increase of pro-apoptotic Bax/Bcl-2 ratio. Conclusion: Promoting mitochondrion-dependent apoptosis of prostate stromal cells might be one of the mechanisms by which QC treats BPH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT The aim of this research was to use sensory analysis and colorimetric sensors to evaluate four Chinese traditional vinegars. Firstly, sensory analysis was performed by descriptive tests. An evaluation card for vinegar sensory analysis was set up. Four traditional vinegar groups can be clearly identified by sensory panelists from principal component analysis results. Secondly, 23 chemoresponsive dyes and seven pH dyes were selected, and a 5 × 6 colorimetric sensor array was used to measure the four traditional vinegars. With cluster analysis, all samples were assembled 'Zhenjiang Vinegar,''Shanxi Vinegar,''Sichuan Vinegar' and 'Zhejiang Vinegar' when the similarity was 12. Thirdly, the correlation between the sensory analysis and the colorimetric sensor analysis was taken into account. These works showed that sensory analysis and colorimetric sensor analysis were both good in identifying different vinegars although they did not correlate with each other. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS An evaluation card was set up for sensory evaluation. Thirteen descriptive attributes belong to three distinct classes and their scores were first reported in this article. The evaluation card could be used for quality control of vinegar by sensory analysis in Vinegar Company in China. The colorimetric sensor array system which was set up in this article could also be used in the Chinese vinegar quality control. This article also gives an approach for studying the traditional food in China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Investigation of characteristic constituents of Salicornia bigelovii Torr. led to isolation of two new 30-nortriterpenoid glycosides, Bigelovii A (1), Bigelovii B (2), together with two known 30-nortriterpenoid glycosides 3–4 and three known oleanane-type triterpenoid glycosides 5–7. The structures of new compounds were elucidated by extensive 1D and 2D NMR, and MS spectroscopic analysis, and chemical evidences. All compounds were isolated for the first time from Chenopodiaceae. Thus compounds 1–4 were evaluated for their cytotoxicity and compouds 1, 3 showed moderate activity against four cell lines, HL-60 (promyelocytic leukemia), MCF-7 (breast carcinoma), HepG2 (liver carcinoma) and A549 (lung carcinoma), with IC50 values of 6.18, 78.08, 13.64 and >100μM for 1; 31.87, >100, ~100, >100μM for 3, respectively. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Two new cycloartane glycosides were isolated from the aerial parts of Thalictrum fortunei (Ranunculaceae). The chemical structures of these compounds were elucidated as 3-O-β-d-glucopyranosyl (1 → 4)-β-d-fucopyranosyl-(22S,24Z)-cycloart-24-en-3β,22,26,30-tetraol 26-O-β-d-glucopyranoside and 3-O-β-d-glucopyranosyl (1 → 4)-β-d-fucopyranosyl-(22S,24Z)-cycloart-24-en-3β,22,26,29-tetraol 26-O-β-d-glucopyranoside by extensive 1D and 2D NMR methods, HR-ESI-MS, and hydrolysis. Their cytotoxic activities toward human hepatoma Bel-7402 cells, human colon carcinoma LoVo cells, and human non-small-cell lung cancer NCIH-460 cells were evaluated by MTT assay, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

In vitro anti-allergic screening of medicinal herbal extracts revealed that the EtOAc extract of the rhizoma of Kadsura coccinea inhibited nitric oxide (NO) production in a lipopolysaccharide and recombinant mouse interferon-γ activated murine macrophage-like cell line, RAW264.7. Further fractionation of the EtOAc extract led to the isolation of two new dibenzocyclooctadiene lignans kadsuralignan G (1) and kadsuralignan L (2), and three known analog compounds. The absolute stereostructures were established by circular dichroism spectra. Both 1 and 2 showed moderate NO production inhibitory activities. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Aims: The purpose of this study was to discuss how the environmental inputs and anthropogenic activities impact bacterial communities in the sediments of a shallow, eutrophic and temperate freshwater lake. Methods and Results: Sediment cores were collected from Lake Dongping, located in Taian, Shandong, China. All samples were processed within 4 h of collection. Total nitrogen, total phosphorus (TP), total organic carbon, ammonium nitrogen and nitrate nitrogen content of samples were measured by Kjeldahl determination, sulphuric acid-perchloric acid digestion and molybdenum blue colorimetry, potassium dichromate titration, Nessler's reagent colorimetric and the phenol disulphonic acid colorimetric method, respectively. Seasonal and temporal diversity of sediment bacterial communities at six stations in Lake Dongping were investigated using molecular approaches (terminal restriction fragment length polymorphism and 16S rDNA clone libraries). Noticeable seasonal and temporal variations were observed in bacterial diversity and composition at all six stations. Sediment bacterial communities in Lake Dongping belonged to 16 phyla: Proteobacteria (including α-Proteobacteria, β-Proteobacteria, δ-Proteobacteria, ε-Proteobacteria, γ-Proteobacteria), Acidobacteria, Planctomycetes, Bacteroidetes, Firmicutes, Verrucomicrobia, Nitrospira, Chloroflexi, Gemmatimonadetes, Chlorobi, Cyanobacteria, Deferribacteres, Actinobacteria, OP8, Spirochaetes and OP11. Members of β-, δ- and γ-Proteobacterial sequences were predominant in 11 of 12 clone libraries derived from sediment samples. Sediment samples collected at stations 1 and 4 in July had the greatest bacterial diversity while those collected at station 2 in October had the least diversity. TP concentration was significantly correlated with the distribution of bacterial communities. Conclusions: Our results suggested that different environmental nutrient inputs contribute to seasonal and temporal variations of chemical features and bacterial communities in sediments of Lake Dongping. TP concentration was significantly correlated with the distribution of bacterial communities. Significance and Impact of the Study: This study has an important implication for the optimization of integrated ecosystem assessment of shallow temperate freshwater lake and provides interesting information for the subsequent of the ecosystem. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Ethnopharmacological relevance: The genus Paeonia (Paeoniaceae), is one of the most important source of crude drugs in traditional Chinese medicine and investigation on many species is large. Up to now studies on Paeonia rockii, one of the eight species recognized in the section Moutan, are very limited. Aim of the study: This research aimed to investigate the composition of Paeonia rockii roots and to evaluate the in vitro free-radical scavenging and antifungal activities of a polar extract (PPR) and its major constituents. Materials and methods: PPR was obtained from defatted dried roots of Paeonia rockii using MeOH as extraction solvent. Its n-BuOH soluble portion (PPR-B) was purified by Sephadex LH-20 followed by RP-HPLC to give nineteen compounds belonging to the classes polyphenols, monoterpenes and triterpenes. Their structure were spectrally characterized (UV, 1D and 2D NMR, MS). The polyphenols content of PPR and PPR-B was examined by the Folin–Ciocalteau colorimetric assay and HPLC method. Both extracts (PPR and PPR-B) and their major constituents were tested for the free-radical scavenging activity by DPPH-test, and for the antifungal activity by three methods (micro-broth dilution method, XTT assay and Candida albicans morphological analysis). Results: 5-Butylhydroxy-γ-lactone (1), and ethyl-arabinopyranoside (2) have been isolated for the first time as naturally occurring compounds and taxifolin (3) was reported for the first time in Paeonia spp. Nine polyphenols, four monoterpenes and three triterpenes were also identified. Both the extracts PPR and PPR-B had high polyphenol content, and high concentration of gallic acid derivatives and paeoniflorin, chemotaxonomic characteristic markers of the genus. PPR, gallic acid and methyl-gallate displayed high potency in scavenging free-radicals (DPPH test, EC50 13.3, 1.2, 1.9μg/ml, respectively). Both the extracts and gallic acid individually showed an interesting antifungal property (MIC50 at 24h 25, 0.9 and 30μg/ml, respectively) and notably, a combination of paeoniflorin/gallic acid (MIC50 =0.5+20μg/ml, respectively) was more active than the single compound in inhibiting Candida growth. Conclusion: The polar methanolic extract (PPR), its n-BuOH soluble fraction and constituents of Paeonia rockii were extensively investigated. Both extracts and some of their compounds have the ability to scavenge free-radicals and to inhibit Candida albicans growth. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Aim of the study: The Bi-Qi Capsule (Bi-Qi) has been used in clinic as prescribed drug for the treatment of rheumatic arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and other osteoarticular diseases about 20 years in China. Pharmacological and clinical studies have confirmed the anti-inflammatory and analgesic action of Bi-Qi in vivo. However, its anti-inflammatory molecular mechanism is still unclear. The objective of the study is to reveal the anti-inflammatory molecular mechanism of Bi-Qi which would form an additional proof to the traditional experience of Bi-Qi in clinical administration. Materials and methods: The aqueous extract of Bi-Qi was used to evaluate the anti-inflammatory action in murine macrophage cell line RAW 264.7 treated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Cell viability was evaluated by MTT assay. Production of nitric oxide (NO) and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) were measured by the Griess colorimetric method and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), respectively. Protein expression levels of cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2) were monitored by cell-based ELISA. Proteome profiler array was analyzed to evaluate 40 cytokines at protein level. In addition, interleukin 6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) synthesis were analyzed using ELISA to confirm the result of the Proteome profiler array. The gene expression levels of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), COX-2, TNF-α, IL-6, and interleukin 1β (IL-1β) were detected by quantitative real-time reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (real-time RT-PCR). Results: Bi-Qi significantly decreased the production of NO, PGE2, and inhibited the protein expression of COX-2. The Proteome profiler array showed that eight protein cytokines were down-regulated and six protein cytokines were up-regulated by Bi-Qi. Furthermore, the results of TNF-α and IL-6 protein expression analyzed by ELISA were similar to those of Proteome profiler array. The results of real-time RT-PCR demonstrated that iNOS, COX-2, TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-1β gene expression were also significantly reduced by Bi-Qi. Conclusion: These results suggested that the anti-inflammatory molecular mechanism of Bi-Qi might be the results from modulating the LPS-mediated NO–iNOS pathway, COX-2 pathway via inhibition of iNOS, COX-2, TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-1β expression in activated macrophages. In addition, these results provided evidence to understand the therapeutic effects of Bi-Qi on various inflammatory diseases, e.g. rheumatoid arthritis, rheumatic arthritis and other osteoarticular diseases. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Two new ent-kaurene diterpenoids, 15α-acetoxyl-6,11α-epoxy-6α-hydroxy-20-oxo-6,7-seco-ent-kaur-16-en-1,7-olide (1), 15α-hydroxy-20-oxo-6,7-seco-ent-kaur-16-en-1,7α(6,11α)-diolide (2), together with ten known compounds (5–14) were isolated from the leaves of Isodon rubescens. Their structures were elucidated mainly by various spectroscopic techniques and finally confirmed by single-crystal X-ray diffraction. Compounds 1, 2, 8 and 12 were evaluated for their cytotoxicities against EC-1, U87, A549, MCF-7 and Hela cell lines. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The first stilbene possessing a γ-aminobutyric acid lactam function, artocarpene (1), and a new flavanone, 2-hydroxynaringenin 4′-O-β-d-glucopyranoside (2), were isolated from the stems of Artocarpus nitidus subsp. lingnanensis along with four known compounds, 2-hydroxynaringenin (3), oxyresveratrol (4), 3,4′,5-trihydroxy-3′-prenylstilbene (5) and norartocarpetin (6). Their structures were elucidated on the basis of spectroscopic data. Compounds 1 exhibited weak antioxidant activity and 2 displayed weak cytotoxicity against human lung cancer A549 cell line. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Tripterygium Glycosides (TG) is effective in the treatment of patients with a variety of inflammatory and autoimmune diseases, especially rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in clinical. Wilforlide A (T1) serves as a quality control standard of TG that be listed in Drug Standard of Ministry of Public Health of the People''s Republic of China. The pharmacologic actions of T1 remain to be unidentified. In this paper, we studied the anti-inflammatory and immune suppressive effect of T1, and compared it with Triptolide (TP), which believed to be the major active component of TG. Carrageenan-induced rat pedal swelling, tampon-induced rat granulation, and mice ear inhibition rate of swelling trail results show that high-dose T1 has obvious anti-inflammatory effect. Colorimetric detection contents of hemolysin, carbon elimination from plasma of mice, mice delayed hypersensitivity immune, and organ index were measured. The results show that T1 has no significant immune suppressive activity, and there has a significant difference with TP and TG. Therefore, we think the content of TP also should be controlled as a supplement standard in order to ensure safe and effective medication. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Two new C28 sterols with a cyclopentane ring at C-22 and 26, alkesterol A (1) and alkesterol B (2), along with β-sitosterol (3), were isolated from the berries of Physalis pubeacens L. (cape gooseberry). The structures of the new compounds were established by HR-EI-MS, 1D and 2D (1H-1H COSY, HSQC, HMBC) NMR experiments. The known compound was identified by comparison of spectral data with published references. The two new compounds showed some cytotoxic activities by MTT assay. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim of the study: Drynaria fortunei J. Sm. is one variety of the traditional Chinese medical herb Gusuibu. This study was aimed to evaluate the effects of water extracts of Kunze on regulation of osteoblast maturation and its possible mechanisms. Materials and methods: Primary osteoblasts prepared from neonatal rat calvarias were exposed to the water extracts of Kunze (WEK), and the cytotoxicity was assayed. Osteoblast maturation was evaluated by analyzing cell mineralization. RT-PCR was executed to determine the effects of WEK on regulation of osteoblast differentiation-related gene expression. Nitrosative stress and apoptotic cells were quantified using flow cytometry. Results: Exposure of rat calvarial osteoblasts to WEK did not affect cell viability, but significantly promoted osteoblast mineralization. WEK induced osteoprogenitor proliferation-related insulin-like growth factor-1 mRNA, but did not affect collagen type 1 mRNA expression. Treatment with WEK likewise induced the expression of matrix maturation-related bone morphogenetic protein (BMP)-2 and BMP-6 mRNA. Consequently, WEK enhanced the levels of mineralization-related alkaline phosphatase, ostepontin, and osteocalcin mRNA in osteoblasts. In addition, exposure of osteoblasts to WEK alleviated nitrosative stress-caused apoptotic insults. Conclusions: This study shows that WEK can promote osteoblast maturation by regulating bone differentiation-related gene expression and defending against nitrosative stress-induced apoptotic insults. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Ethnopharmacological relevance: San-ao Decoction (SA) is a classical prescription, clinically employed to treat asthma in Chinese medicine. Aim of study: The present study was designed to examine whether SA has a protective effect on normal human bronchial epithelium modeled by interleukin-4 (IL-4), in association with eotaxin-3. Materials and methods: SA is made of three traditional Chinese medicines: Herba Ephedrae, Semen Armeniacae amarum and Radix Glycyrrhizae. Apoptosis was measured by fluorescence microscopy and flow cytometry with IL-4 activated NHBE. In addition, eotaxin-3 mRNA''s expression was detected by RT-PCR in NHBE stimulated with IL-4. Results: Fluorescence microscopy and flow cytometry showed that IL-4-induced normal human bronchial epithelium (NHBE) apoptosis, while SA decreased the apoptosis of NHBE with IL-4 stimulation. RT-PCR showed no expression or low expression of eotaxin-3 mRNA on NHBE, IL-4 enhanced the eotaxin-3 mRNA''s expression, and that could be decreased by SA. Conclusions: The results indicate that SA can decrease NHBE''s damage and inflammation through reducing eotaxin-3 mRNA expression. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Nitrite is one of the most common carcinogens in daily food. Its simple, rapid, inexpensive, and in-field measurement is important for food safety, based on the requirements of the standard from Codex Alimentarius Commission and China. Using polyacrylonitrile (PAN) and thin layer silica gel (SG), p-aminophenylcyclic acid (SA) and naphthalene ethylenediamine hydrochloride (NEH), as carriers and chromogenic agents, respectively, PAN-NSS as nitrite color sensor is proposed. After fixing and protecting of SA and NEH with layer-upon-layer PAN, the validity period of the test paper can be prolonged from 7 days to more than 30 days. The reproducibility of PAN-NSS preparation is ensured by electrospinning. Combined with PAN-NSS, deep convolutional neural network (DCNN) and APP as a visual monitoring platform, which has the functions of rapid sampling, data processing and transmission, intuitive feedback, etc., and provides a fully integrated detection system for field detection., (Copyright © 2021 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Baijiu is a distilled liquor of great importance in the food industry. Various aroma types, brands, and grades of Baijiu have filled the market; thus, discrimination for quality control is required. Herein, we constructed a novel colorimetric sensor array based on the redox reaction between silver nitrate and o-phenylenediamine or its derivatives for the discrimination of carbonyl flavor compounds (CFCs) and Baijius. The specific colored products were changed by CFCs depending on the influence of silver nanoparticle aggregation and chemical reactions. The array was used to qualitatively and quantitatively identify 21 CFCs with fast response (<14 min), wide linear range (0.025-25 mmol/L), and low detection limits (<60 μmol/L, 29 nmol/L for carboxylic acids). Finally, the array was successfully applied to the discrimination of 56 Baijius. The method proposed in this study is simple, fast, reliable, and has good application potential for the visual determination of Chinese Baijiu., (Copyright © 2021 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Herein, a dual-mode method based on fluorescent and colorimetric sensor was developed for determination of organophosphate pesticides (OPs). In this study, indoxyl acetate (IDA) was hydrolyzed by esterase into indophenol. Indophenol leads to changes in fluorescence signal and aggregation of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs); ultimately changing the color from red to blue. When OPs exist, the formation of indophenol was inhibited. With increasing the concentrations of OPs, the enhancement rate of fluorescence signal decreases, and the color change of AuNPs weakened gradually. The assay was applied for determination of dichlorvos, trichlorfon, and paraoxon, and the limits of detection (LODs) were 0.0032 mg/kg, 0.0096 mg/kg, and 0.0074 mg/kg (fluorometric assay), and 0.0120 mg/kg, 0.0224 mg/kg, and 0.0106 mg/kg (colorimetric assay), respectively. Finally, such a convenient and sensitive sensing assay was successfully applied for quantification of OPs in pear and Chinese cabbage with good recoveries ranged between 80.19 and 116.93%., (Copyright © 2021 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Precise measuring of urban façade color is necessary for urban color planning. The existing manual methods of measuring building façade color are limited by time and labor costs and hardly carried out on a city scale. These methods also make it challenging to identify the role of the building function in controlling and guiding urban color planning. This paper explores a city-scale approach to façade color measurement with building functional classification using state-of-the-art deep learning techniques and street view images. Firstly, we used semantic segmentation to extract building façades and conducted the color calibration of the photos for pre-processing the collected street view images. Then, we proposed a color chart-based façade color measurement method and a multi-label deep learning-based building classification method. Next, the field survey data were used as the ground truth to verify the accuracy of the façade color measurement and building function classification. Finally, we applied our approach to generate façade color distribution maps with the building classification for three metropolises in China, and the results proved the transferability and effectiveness of the scheme. The proposed approach can provide city managers with an overall perception of urban façade color and building function across city-scale areas in a cost-efficient way, contributing to data-driven decision making for urban analytics and planning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Arsenic contaminations in waters are concerned worldwide. This research was to examine an in situ method of aqueous binding concentration and diffusion (ABCD) technique with an aqueous solution of metal immobilized polycationic polymer (MIP) as a binding phase and a dialysis membrane as a diffusive layer to pre-concentrate trace arsenate in lake waters. Although the maximum binding capacity of arsenate to MIP was influenced by the presence of anions in water, the binding phase was capable of pre-concentrating arsenate in lake water. This in situ pre-concentration technique was combined with light emitting diodes (LED) for semi-on line detection of trace arsenate in waters. The system was eventually validated in lake waters in lab and in natural lake waters in China. In this work, new colorimetric method for detection of arsenate in the binding phase has been developed to minimize the potential spectra interferences of silicates, phosphates and other oxyanions. Potassium iodide was used to reduce arsenate to arsenite before the solution was mixed with the colour generation reagent of RhodamineB., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2020 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

For simultaneous and quantitative prediction of three toxic heavy metal residues (Pb, Cd and Hg) in fish, the novel and low‐cost colorimetric sensors array was fabricated. Forty eight fish samples (Carassius carassius) retailed in Zhenjiang, China, were used. Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry was employed as the reference analytical method. The partial least square regression (PLS) and extreme learning machine (ELM) respectively were comparatively used for data modeling. Results showed that the ELM models built were better than the PLS models with correlation coefficient in the prediction set for Pb, Cd, and Hg as 0.854, 0.83, and 0.845 respectively; while, the corresponding root mean squares error were 0.102 mg/kg, 0.026 mg/kg, and 0.016 mg/kg respectively. This work demonstrates that the developed artifical gustatory system has a great potential in the simultaneous and quantitative prediction of heavy metal residues in fish and could be used perhaps for other fish products. Practical applications: Fish is an important food commodity worldwide. It is very vital to monitor heavy metals residues in raw fishes to guarantee food safety. Traditional analytical methods for heavy metals determination in fish are quite cumbersome and usually expensive. The novel low‐cost and simple colorimetric sensors array based on pyridylazo and porphyrin indicators has been developed in the present study. Results showed that, photoelectric electronic tongue based on colorimetric sensors coupled with extreme learning machine model has a great potential in the simultaneous and quantitative prediction of toxic heavy metal residues in fish. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Buckwheat products are receiving increasing attention because of their high nutritive values and significant health-promoting properties. In the present study, 15 buckwheat products grown in different parts of China were investigated. Representative common or tartary buckwheat samples were further subjected to soaking, roasting, microwave cooking, boiling and steaming treatments. Colorimetric analyses and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analyses were performed to determine the phenolic profiles and antioxidant capacities of the raw and thermally processed buckwheat samples, respectively., Results: Tartary buckwheat exhibited a remarkably higher total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), 2-diphenyl-1-picryhydrazyl (DPPH) free radical scavenging activity and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) compared to common buckwheat, although there were no significant differences between their 2,2'-azino-di-(3-ethylbenzthiazoline sulfonic acid) (ABTS) free radical scavenging capacity. All thermal treatments, particularly microwave cooking, contributed to the greatest losses of phenolics and antioxidant capacities in the common buckwheat samples, whereas boiling and steaming usually resulted in the lowest losses. For the tartary buckwheat samples, all thermal treatments (except roasting), especially boiling and steaming, led to significant increases in TPC, TFC, DPPH free radical scavenging activity, FRAP and ABTS free radical scavenging capacity. However, HPLC analyses indicated that all thermal treatments, especially microwave cooking, gave rise to the greatest losses of the total content of 14 phenolic acids and three flavonoids, whereas boiling led to the lowest losses., Conclusion: Both steaming and boiling treatments are recommended when preparing common or tartary buckwheat food products because they can minimize thermal degradation or promote their phenolic compounds and antioxidant capacities to the greatest extent. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry., (© 2019 Society of Chemical Industry.)

The importance of phenolic compounds for responding to various environmental conditions has been widely emphasized. However, the role of interactions between polyphenols and ecological factors, especially C, N, and P stoichiometry was little studied. Here, 15 sites across five provinces of Pinus bungeana in temperate regions of China were studied. The results showed that the higher values of total phenolic contents (TPC) of leaf and litter were distributed among the north distribution area of P. bungeana, lower values were in the south, whereas soil TPC were contrary to leaf and litter TPC. The stepwise regression, path analysis and decision index of path analysis for leaf TPC and ecological factors showed that altitude had the most direct impact on leaf TPC. Moreover, the principal determinants of leaf, litter and soil TPC were soil C/P ratios, longitude, and soil N/P ratios, respectively. In addition, the leaf, litter and soil TPC of P. bungeana were limited by soil C/N ratios, mean annual temperature, and soil P, respectively. Overall, our study provided evidence that ecological factors affected strongly the leaf, litter and soil TPC of P. bungeana., (© 2019 Wiley-VHCA AG, Zurich, Switzerland.)

Green, simple and quick melamine sensing assays for highly efficient detection of melamine down to nM level have been reported. Biopolyphenols (rutin & curcumin) were used as reducing and stabilizing agents for the synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). The synthesis of AgNPs was confirmed by FTIR, UV-Visible, XRD and HRTEM-EDS analysis. The biopolyphenols reduced AgNPs were well dispersed and spherical in shape. However, the presence of melamine in the reaction medium disrupted their synthesis. This may be attributed to interaction of melamine with Ag + ions and biopolyphenols. At low concentration of melamine, pale red colored solution was obtained owing to formation of aggregated mass of AgNPs, whereas, at high concentration of melamine, colorless solution was obtained indicating disruption in synthesis of AgNPs. The presented protocol was proposed in light of optical responses, UV-Visible plots and HRTEM-EDS analysis. Using the sensor assays, good limit of detection, 0.01 ppm (79 nM) and 0.24 ppm (1900 nM) by Ag-Rutin and Ag-Curcumin respectively, were obtained. The detection limits offered by both sensing assays were quite lower than safety level recommended by regulatory bodies (20 μM in the USA and EU, 8 μM for infant formula in China). The sensing assays displayed good selectivity as well as sensitivity. The proposed sensor was successfully deployed for detection of melamine in raw milk samples., (Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)