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Value management (VM) and risk management (RM) both involve systematic team decision-making methodologies, but they are often used separately by construction professionals in real practices for different purposes. VM emphases the best project value, while RM is expected to minimize the project risks. The major difference between the two methodologies may lie in the function analysis phase of VM for identifying key functions of projects, and the risk analysis of RM for risk identification. Due to the complementary nature of the techniques involved in both forms of management, the integration of VM and RM has been advocated by scholars for about three decades to optimize the final outcome within limited time and resources. However, little attention has been paid to establishing the complex relationships between value-risk management (VRM) techniques and their outcomes. Therefore, this study aims to find an effective way to integrate VM and RM for enhancing final outcomes. A questionnaire survey was conducted to construction professionals with experience in VM and/or RM. Through various statistical analyses, including factor analysis, correlation, and multiple regression analysis, the findings indicate that (1) information and creativity techniques aided development techniques significantly; (2) presentation techniques are determined by information and function analysis techniques; (3) information techniques, risk analysis techniques, and development techniques enhance team and project performance in VRM workshops; and (4) function analysis techniques, risk analysis techniques, and development techniques can improve overall satisfaction on construction projects. To ensure risk minimization and value maximization in construction projects, VRM workshops should be harnessed and undertaken systematically and logically. Practical recommendations regarding sufficient information and discussion time for VRM participants are given to ensure stakeholders gain the comprehensive understanding of the peculiarity of the project at hand necessary to propel creative ideas and achieve the objectives of the workshop. In the real construction industry, it is time consuming and costly for project practitioners to conduct value management for enhancing project value and risk management to minimize impending risks separately. In this research, value management and risk management techniques were integrated in team decision-making process (value-risk management process) to help project practitioners make the best decisions with fewer risks logically for achieving the best project value. For enhancing final outcomes such as reducing project cost, facilitating team cooperation, and improving overall satisfaction, several practical recommendations are proposed for project practitioners to conduct the value-risk management process effectively: for example, allocating sufficient time for VRM practitioners to share and review information and identify possible risks, conducting function analysis training to the VRM practitioners, using risk analysis software during the VRM process, and requiring VRM practitioners work together to develop a comprehensive final report. The VRM participants need to use function analysis techniques to identify the key functions for value enhancement. The VRM workshop facilitator must be competent in all the techniques for applications on the project. In addition, the report should contain sufficient justifications such as calculations, possible cost-saving, advantages, and disadvantages of final ideas agreed upon by the VRM participants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF) is a refractory disease with high mortality, which is characterized by a pathophysiological process of inflammation-related dysfunction of energy metabolism. Jieduan-Niwan formula (JDNWF) is a eutherapeutic Chinese medicine formula for ACLF. However, the intrinsic mechanism of its anti-ACLF effect still need to be studied systematically. Purpose: This study aimed to investigate the mechanism of JDNWF against ACLF based on altered substance metabolic profile in ACLF the expression levels of related molecules. Materials and methods: The chemical characteristics of JDNWF were characterized using ultra performance liquid chromatography (UPLC) coupled with triple quadrupole mass spectrometry. Wistar rats subjected to a long-term CCL4 stimulation followed by a combination of an acute attack with LPS/D-GalN were used to establish the ACLF model. Liver metabolites were analyzed by LC–MS/MS and multivariate analysis. Liver function, coagulation function, histopathology, mitochondrial metabolic enzyme activity and mitochondrial damage markers were evaluated. The protein expression of mitochondrial quality control (MQC) was investigated by western blot. Results: Liver function, coagulation function, inflammation, oxidative stress and mitochondrial enzyme activity were significantly improved by JDNWF. 108 metabolites are considered as biomarkers of JDNWF in treating ACLF, which were closely related to TCA cycle. It was further suggested that JDNWF alleviated mitochondrial damage and MQC may be potential mechanism of JDNWF improving mitochondrial function. Conclusions: Metabolomics revealed that TCA cycle was impaired in ACLF rats, and JDNWF had a regulatory effect on it. The potential mechanism may be improving the mitochondrial function through MQC pathway, thus restoring energy metabolism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Belt and Road (B&R) initiative creates a highly competitive and dynamic environment and cooperation network for construction projects in specific regions. By using the experience of other countries, construction professionals can be well-equipped with management skills for solving intractable problems during the project management process of a construction project. Value management (VM) is a systematic team decision-making methodology used to achieve the best project value, but it is rarely applied in developing regions along the B&R. This study aims to identify critical success factors for the implementation of VM in construction projects in both developed and developing regions along the B&R. Six focus groups targeting three groups of regions were conducted, including advanced VM developed regions (Regions 1), advanced VM developing regions (Regions 2), and unadvanced VM developing regions (Regions 3). Three main groups of critical success factors were identified by using contextual analysis: technical process, team behaviors, and outcomes. By comparing VM in advanced VM regions (Regions 1 and Regions 2) and traditional team decision-making in unadvanced VM regions (Regions 3), the study revealed that (1) practitioners in Regions 1 applied VM to achieve project success with a logical process and positive team behaviors, although several problems were also encountered; (2) surprisingly, in some technical respects, VM practitioners in Region 2 performed better than those in Regions 1, but positive team behaviors were still not emphasized; and (3) inefficient traditional decision-making activities with illogical technical processes and negative team behaviors in Regions 3 often led to poor project outcomes. A propositional model is established based on the identified critical success factors and comparison results among the three groups of regions. Finally, several practical recommendations are proposed to ensure effective VM application and promotion in both developed and developing regions along the B&R. In the developing countries that participated in the Belt and Road initiative, poor performance is not uncommon for megaconstruction projects with multiple stakeholders due to poor problem-solving strategies. This research revealed that value management practitioners in developed regions could achieve good project outcomes by applying value management with a logical framework and positive team behaviors, but they have not yet found a good way to resolve problems in terms of time constraints, no follow-up actions, and duplicate information from the public. VM practitioners in some of the developing regions put much effort into VM application, but the poor function analysis and insufficient conflict management, commitment, and transparency still impacted the final project outcomes negatively. Various problems such as no information analysis, serious corruption, and limited participation were encountered in illogical traditional team decision-making activities in developing regions, which significantly destroyed stakeholder outcomes and project performance. This research explores the insufficient value management practices in both developed and developing regions along the B&R, which provides empirical evidence to constriction professionals to update their VM/traditional team decision-making strategies and find out the best ways to conduct VM logically and effectively for improving final project outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Daylily (Hemerocallis citrina Baroni) is an edible plant widely distributed worldwide, especially in Asia. It has traditionally been considered a potential anti-constipation vegetable. This study aimed to investigate the anti-constipation effects of daylily from the perspective of gastro-intestinal transit, defecation parameters, short-chain organic acids, gut microbiome, transcriptomes and network pharmacology. The results show that dried daylily (DHC) intake accelerated the defecation frequency of mice, while it did not significantly alter the levels of short-chain organic acids in the cecum. The 16S rRNA sequencing showed that DHC elevated the abundance of Akkermansia, Bifidobacterium and Flavonifractor, while it reduced the level of pathogens (such as Helicobacter and Vibrio). Furthermore, a transcriptomics analysis revealed 736 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) after DHC treatment, which are mainly enriched in the olfactory transduction pathway. The integration of transcriptomes and network pharmacology revealed seven overlapping targets (Alb, Drd2, Igf2, Pon1, Tshr, Mc2r and Nalcn). A qPCR analysis further showed that DHC reduced the expression of Alb, Pon1 and Cnr1 in the colon of constipated mice. Our findings provide a novel insight into the anti-constipation effects of DHC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF) is a critical and refractory disease and a hepatic disorder accompanied by immune dysfunction. Thus, it is essential to explore key immune-related genes of ACLF and investigate its mechanisms. We used two public datasets (GSE142255 and GSE168048) to perform various bioinformatics analyses, including WGCNA, CIBERSORT, and GSEA. We also constructed an ACLF immune-related protein–protein interaction (PPI) network to obtain hub differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and predict corresponding miRNAs. Finally, an ACLF rat model was established to verify the results. A total of 388 DEGs were identified in ACLF, including 162 upregulated and 226 downregulated genes. The enrichment analyses revealed that these DEGs were mainly involved in inflammatory-immune responses and biosynthetic metabolic pathways. Twenty-eight gene modules were obtained using WGCNA and the coral1 and darkseagreen4 modules were highly correlated with M1 macrophage polarization. As a result, 10 hub genes and 2 miRNAs were identified to be significantly altered in ACLF. The bioinformatics analyses of the two datasets presented valuable insights into the pathogenesis and screening of hub genes of ACLF. These results might contribute to a better understanding of the potential molecular mechanisms of ACLF. Finally, further studies are required to validate our current findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

(1) Background: Carbon quantum dots (CQDs) are a new class of carbon nanomaterials with favorable features, such as tunable luminescence, unique optical properties, water solubility, and lack of cytotoxicity; they are readily applied in biomedicine. (2) Methods: S, N co-doped CQDs were prepared to develop a highly selective and sensitive fluorescence technique for the detection of methotrexate (MTX). For this purpose, citric acid and thiourea were used as C, N, and S sources in a single-step hydrothermal process to prepare the S, N co-doped CQDs, which displayed remarkable fluorescence properties. (3) Results: Two optimal emissions were observed at the excitation/emission wavelengths of 320/425 nm, respectively. The two emissions were significantly quenched in the presence of MTX. Under optimal conditions, MTX was detected in the linear concentration range of 1–300 μmol/L, with the detection limit of 0.33 μmol/L. The sensing mechanism was due to the fact that the effect of the inner filter on MTX and S, N-CQDs causes fluorescence quenching. The contents of MTX in real medicine samples were evaluated with acceptable recoveries of 98–101%. (4) Conclusions: This approach has great potential for detecting MTX in pharmaceutical analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. This study aimed to observe the regulatory effects of astragaloside IV (AS-IV) on hyperglycemia-induced mitochondrial damage and mitophagy in Schwann cells and to provide references for clinical trials on AS-IV in the treatment of diabetic peripheral neuropathy. Methods. Schwann cells were grown in a high-glucose medium to construct an autophagy model; the cells were then treated with AS-IV and N-acetylcysteine (control) to observe the regulatory effects of AS-IV on oxidative stress and mitophagy. Results. AS-IV exhibited antioxidant activity and inhibited the overactivation of autophagy in Schwann cells, significantly reducing the level of reactive oxygen species and downregulating the expression of autophagy-related proteins (LC3, PINK, and Parkin) under hyperglycemic conditions, thereby exerting a protective effect on mitochondrial morphology and membrane potential. Conclusion. AS-IV can maintain the mitochondrial function of Schwann cells under hyperglycemic conditions by effectively alleviating oxidative stress and overactivation of mitophagy. The evidence from this study supports an AS-IV-based therapeutic strategy against diabetic peripheral neuropathy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphene has attracted attention in the field of lubrication based on its excellent properties. However, the difficulty of graphene dispersion in base oil hinders its development. In this paper, the effects of ionic liquid as additives on the dispersion and lubricating properties of graphene lubricants were investigated. Results showed that after adding ionic liquid, the graphene could be still stably dispersed in base oil even after 30 days. Molecular simulation study showed that ionic liquid tended to insert into graphene layers, and promoted the affinity of graphene and base oil. Then, the tribological friction behaviour of ionic liquid/graphene lubricants was investigated by concentration of ionic liquid, applied load and sliding velocity. Results showed that the friction and wear property was improved better after adding ionic liquid. This work provides a new method to enhance the stability of the graphene lubricating oil, and thus broaden the graphene in tribological application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. To determine the effects of TLN on glycolipid metabolism, oxidative stress, and intestinal flora in diabetic rat. Materials and Methods. Thirty-five male Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats (180–200 g) were divided into two groups. The normal group was fed a standard-chow diet, whereas, in the model group, diabetes was induced by intraperitoneal administration of streptozotocin (STZ) combined with a high-fat sucrose diet. Then, the model group was randomly allocated to four groups: DM (diabetes model) and TLNH (TLN high dose), TLNL (TLN low dose), and NAC (N-acetylcysteine). Rats in the TLNH, TLNL, and NAC groups were intragastrically administered TLN and NAC for 12 weeks. Subsequently, their weights, fasting glucose levels, serum lipids, serum insulin, serum ROS, and intestinal flora were determined. Results. The weight and intestinal flora abundance of the DM group were significantly lower than those of the normal group, whereas their total serum cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), serum reactive oxygen species (ROS), and serum insulin (INS) levels were significantly higher than those of the normal group. TC and LDL-C levels in the TLNL group and DM group were similar, whereas FBG, INS, and ROS levels in the TLNL group were obviously lower than those in the DM group. Compared with the DM group, there was a significant increase in intestinal flora abundance in the TLNL group. At the phylum level, the ratio of Firmicutes to Bacteroidetes (core microbiota) varied in all groups. However, in the DM group, Firmicutes abundance decreased, whereas that of Bacteroidetes increased. An opposite trend was observed in the TLN-treated groups. Conclusions. TLN, which showed a dose-dependent therapeutic effect, can effectively decrease serum lipid, serum insulin, blood glucose, and serum ROS levels. It can also rebalance the ratio of Firmicutes to Bacteroidetes. Furthermore, the low-dose TLN treatment was most efficacious. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. To determine the effects of TLN on glycolipid metabolism, oxidative stress, and intestinal flora in diabetic rat. Materials and Methods. Thirty-five male Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats (180–200 g) were divided into two groups. The normal group was fed a standard-chow diet, whereas, in the model group, diabetes was induced by intraperitoneal administration of streptozotocin (STZ) combined with a high-fat sucrose diet. Then, the model group was randomly allocated to four groups: DM (diabetes model) and TLNH (TLN high dose), TLNL (TLN low dose), and NAC (N-acetylcysteine). Rats in the TLNH, TLNL, and NAC groups were intragastrically administered TLN and NAC for 12 weeks. Subsequently, their weights, fasting glucose levels, serum lipids, serum insulin, serum ROS, and intestinal flora were determined. Results. The weight and intestinal flora abundance of the DM group were significantly lower than those of the normal group, whereas their total serum cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), serum reactive oxygen species (ROS), and serum insulin (INS) levels were significantly higher than those of the normal group. TC and LDL-C levels in the TLNL group and DM group were similar, whereas FBG, INS, and ROS levels in the TLNL group were obviously lower than those in the DM group. Compared with the DM group, there was a significant increase in intestinal flora abundance in the TLNL group. At the phylum level, the ratio of Firmicutes to Bacteroidetes (core microbiota) varied in all groups. However, in the DM group, Firmicutes abundance decreased, whereas that of Bacteroidetes increased. An opposite trend was observed in the TLN-treated groups. Conclusions. TLN, which showed a dose-dependent therapeutic effect, can effectively decrease serum lipid, serum insulin, blood glucose, and serum ROS levels. It can also rebalance the ratio of Firmicutes to Bacteroidetes. Furthermore, the low-dose TLN treatment was most efficacious. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new and efficient [5+1] annulation reaction for the first synthesis of 5,5‐disubstituted 4,5‐dihydropyrazolo[1,5‐a]quinazolines is described. This transition‐metal‐free tandem cyclization was performed with 5‐amino‐1H‐phenylpyrazole and readily available electron‐deficient olefinic ester. The reaction proceeds via an aza‐Michael addition/Truce‐Smiles rearrangement/SNAr cyclization pathway, which was verified by DFT calculations. The participation of Truce‐Smiles rearrangement is substrate dependent and could prompt the process of cascade reactions. It is also the first report of alkenes acting as one‐carbon synthons for [5+1] hetero‐annulations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Hydrogen bonds of cellulose might be cracked by two ways at different temperatures. • The O(3)H–O(5) bonds disruption could promote the dissolution at lower temperature. • The (O(2)H–O(6)) bonds might be responsible for dissolution at higher temperature. • Higher dissolving temperature might be a way to avoid cellulose degradation in ILs. Abstract Ionic liquids have been powerful solvents for cellulose. Mechanistic investigations of the dissolution processes have been extensively studied. In this paper, an experimental study has revealed that temperature also comes into play in cellulose dissolution. The supramolecular stuctrure of cellulose has been measured by X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, Solid-state CP/MAS 13C NMR, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and Gel permeation chromatography analysis, and the effects of temperature on hydrogen bonds of cellulose in ILs were investigated. These results indicated that hydrogen bonds of cellulose might be cracked by different ways at different temperature: The disruption of intramolecular hydrogen bonds (O(3) H-O (5)) could promote the dissolution process at lower temperature. And the disruption of intramolecular hydrogen bonds (O(2) H-O (6)) might be responsible for cellulose dissolution at higher temperature. It was suggested that higher dissolving temperature might be a way to avoid cellulose degradation with a high cellulose yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanocellulose from eucalyptus ( Eucalyptus robusta Smith ) pulp was extracted by simply disrupting the hydrogen bond network of celluloses with high pressure homogenization (HPH). It was found that nanocellulose was 20–100 nm in diameter, and presented a narrower molecular weight distribution, lower thermal stability and crystallinity index. Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) and solid state cross polarization magic angle spinning carbon-13 nuclear magnetic resonance (CP/MAS 13 C NMR) were used to confirm the physicochemical properties of nanocellulose, suggesting that intra-molecular hydrogen bonds are entirely maintained. Meanwhile, the feasibility of high pressure homogenization for different cellulosic biomass materials was investigated using comparison of eucalyptus pulp nanocellulose, sugarcane ( Saccharum officinarum ) bagasse nanocellulose and cotton ( Gossypium spp) nanocellulose. Results showed that eucalyptus pulp chains could be interrupted easily by the shearing forces for its harder texture, which was suited for high pressure homogenization. Other kinds of cellulose could also be well suited through controlling key parameters such as mechanical forces and treatment temperature in the process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to reveal the constipation-relieving role of chitosan (COS) with different molecular weights (1 kDa, 3 kDa and 244 kDa). Compared with COS3K (3 kDa) and COS240K (244 kDa), COS1K (1 kDa) more significantly accelerated gastrointestinal transit and defecation frequency. These differential effects were reflected in the regulation of specific gut microbiota (Desulfovibrio, Bacteroides , Parabacteroides and Anaerovorax) and short-chain fatty acids (propionic acid, butyric acid and valeric acid). RNA-sequencing found that the differential expressed genes (DEGs) caused by different molecular weights of COS were mainly enriched in intestinal immune-related pathways, especially cell adhesion molecules. Furthermore, network pharmacology revealed two candidate genes (Clu and Igf2), which can be regarded as the key molecules for the differential anti-constipation effects of COS with different molecular weights. These results were further verified by qPCR. In conclusion, our results provide a novel research strategy to help understand the differences in the anti-constipation effects of chitosan with different molecular weights. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to improve the bioactivities of the polysaccharide from Enteromorpha prolifera (PE), crude PE (Mw 1400 kDa) was degraded to low molecular weight polysaccharide (44 kDa) in the presence of hydrogen peroxide/ascorbic acid, followed by carboxymethylation. The reaction conditions for carboxymethylation of degraded polysaccharide (DPE) were optimized by Response Surface Methodology. The carboxymethyled degraded polysaccharide (CDPE) obtained under optimized conditions, with a degree of carboxymethylation of 0.849, was characterized by FT-IR and 13 C NMR. The molecular weight of CDPE was measured to be 53.7 kDa. CDPE was evaluated for its antioxidant activity by determining the ability to scavenge 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), hydroxyl and superoxide anion radicals, and by determining the ferric reducing power. The antioxidant activity of CDPE was found to be greatly improved in comparison with degraded polysaccharide (DPE) and crude polysaccharide from Enteromorpha prolifera (PE). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Liposarcoma is a rare malignant tumor type and surgical resection is the gold standard treatment. The present study reported on the case of a 51-year-old woman who presented with a mass in the left upper abdomen. Computed tomography revealed a 32-cm giant retroperitoneal liposarcoma. Complete tumor resection was performed without the removal of other organs. Postoperative pathological examination indicated retroperitoneal well-differentiated liposarcoma and immunohistochemistry revealed S-100(−), MDM2(+), vimentin(+), CDK4(+), p16(+) and STAT6(+) results. The patient recovered well after the surgery. Complete tumor resection during the first surgery is key to cure liposarcoma. The present case report will be helpful for clinical oncologists to fully understand giant retroperitoneal liposarcoma and treat it accordingly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Giant bladder stones are rare in younger patients. Herein, we report a case of acute renal failure in a 31-year-old male with a giant bladder stone. The patient presented with lower urinary tract symptoms and urinary retention with milky-white urine. An emergency suprapubic cystotomy was performed and an 11-cm oval, solid stone was removed. Post-operative creatinine levels progressively decreased to normal and the patient exhibited smooth urination and good recovery at follow-up. A comprehensive physical examination and thorough investigation of the patient's medical history are required during clinical evaluation, diagnosis and treatment, thus preventing misdiagnoses and ensuring prompt treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aimed to dissect the genetic basis of heterosis for grain yield and its components in maize ( Zea mays L.). Quantitative trait loci (QTL) and heterotic loci (HL) were analyzed using a set of 203 single segment substitution lines (SSSLs) and its testcross population in three environments. Forty-one QTL were identified as responsible for grain yield, ear length, ear diameter, row number, kernel number per row, and 100-kernel weight in the SSSLs population, and 17 QTL were conserved across the three environments. In the heterosis analysis, 36 HL were identified for grain yield and five yield-related traits in the test population in the three environments. Among the HL, only six (16.7 %) for ear length, kernel number per row, 100-kernel weight, and grain yield were consistent with the results of QTL mapping. In addition, 16.7 % of the heterotic loci showed a dominant effect and 83.3 % showed an over-dominant effect. The results implied that dominance and over-dominance were two important components of heterosis in maize grain yield and yield-related traits in the present testcross population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many real-world applications can be described as large-scale games of imperfect information, which require extensive prior domain knowledge, especially in competitive or human–AI cooperation settings. Population-based training methods have become a popular solution to learn robust policies without any prior knowledge, which can generalize to policies of other players or humans. In this survey, we shed light on population-based deep reinforcement learning (PB-DRL) algorithms, their applications, and general frameworks. We introduce several independent subject areas, including naive self-play, fictitious self-play, population-play, evolution-based training methods, and the policy-space response oracle family. These methods provide a variety of approaches to solving multi-agent problems and are useful in designing robust multi-agent reinforcement learning algorithms that can handle complex real-life situations. Finally, we discuss challenges and hot topics in PB-DRL algorithms. We hope that this brief survey can provide guidance and insights for researchers interested in PB-DRL algorithms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heterosis has been exploited to increase grain yield, quality, and resistance in many crops, and it plays an important role in plant breeding. However, the genetic mechanism of heterosis remains unclear. To dissect the genetic basis of heterosis, a set of 203 single segment substitution lines (SSSLs) was developed, and its test-cross population was used to identify heterotic loci (HL) for plant morphological traits in maize, including plant height (PH), ear height (EH), leaf number (LN), tassel main axis length (TMAL), and tassel branch number (TBN). A total of 41 QTLs and 37 HL were identified for five morphological traits in the test-cross population derived from the 203 SSSLs and the parent, Xu178. Nine HL for PH, nine HL for EH, seven HL for LN, seven HL for TMAL, and five HL for TBN were detected in three different environments, respectively. Eight HL, ph1a, ph1b, ph2, ph5, eh3a, eh3b, eh10, and tmal1b, were simultaneously detected in the three environments. Among the 37 HL, only 10 (27.03 %; for PH, EH, LN, and TBN) had a corresponding QTL (24.39 %) sharing the same chromosomal region. Of all the HL, 21.4 % showed dominance effects, 76.8 % showed over-dominance effects, and only one (1.8 %) showed a partial-dominance effect. This result illustrated that heterosis and performance was controlled by different genetic mechanisms, and over-dominance effects were the main contributors to heterosis for plant-related traits at the single-locus level in maize. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Threenew 4-hydroxy-2-pyridone alkaloids, arthpyrones A–C(1–3), were isolated from the sponge-derivedfungus Arthrinium arundinisZSDS1-F3. Their structureswere elucidated on the basis of spectroscopic analysis, CD spectra,quantum chemical calculation, and X-ray single-crystal diffractionanalysis. Compounds 1and 2possessed a2-pyridone core featured with a decalin moiety linked via a carboxidebridge bearing a novel oxabicyclo[3.3.1]nonane ring system rarelydiscovered in nature. A possible biosynthetic pathway for them wasproposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three new pyrazinoquinazoline indole glucosides ( 1 – 3 ) were isolated from the fungus Aspergillus fumigatus derived from the jellyfish Nemopilema nomurai . Compounds 1 – 3 represent the first examples of glycosidated fumiquinzoline-type alkaloids from nature. The structures of the compounds were elucidated by spectroscopic methods and ECD/TDDFT calculations. A possible biogenetic pathway was proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel biodegradable pH- and salinity-responsive cellulose copolymer was prepared by grafting 2-(Dimethylamino) ethylmethacrylate (DMAEMA) onto bagasse cellulose in ionic liquid. The grafting polymerization was achieved in 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride ([Bmim]Cl) under microwave irradiation. Copolymers were then characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction and thermo gravimetric analysis measurements. The results revealed that polymer chains had been successfully bonded to the cellulose backbone. Furthermore, the self-assembly of cellulose-g-DMAEMA copolymers at various salt concentrations and pH solution were investigated by means of swelling behavior measurement. It indicated that the copolymers presented dual pH and salinity-responsive properties. The synthetic strategy showed great potential in the modification of other cellulosic biomass to afford new biomaterials with desired properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Two new triterpenoids, 2α,3α,19α,23-tetrahydroxyurs-12,20(30)-dien-28-oic acid (1) and 2α,3α,19α-trihydroxyurs-12-en-28-oic acid-28-O-β-d-xylopyranosyl (1→2)-β-d-glucopyranoside (2), and a new acylated flavone glycoside, luteolin 3′-O-(6″-E-caffeoyl)-β-d-glucopyranoside (3), together with three known compounds (4–6), were isolated from the leaves of Callicarpa nudiflora Hook. Their structures were elucidated on the basis of spectroscopic data and chemical methods. Anti-platelet aggregation activities of these compounds were evaluated in vitro. Compounds 1 and 2 showed inhibitory effects on ADP-induced platelet aggregation with EC50 values of 9.48μM and 25.31μM, respectively. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Nanocellulose from sugarcane bagasse was isolated by high pressure homogenization in a homogeneous media. Pretreatment with an ionic liquid (1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride ([Bmim]Cl)) was initially involved to dissolve the bagasse cellulose. Subsequently, the homogeneous solution was passed through a high pressure homogenizer without any clogging. The nanocellulose was obtained at 80MPa for 30 cycles with recovery of 90% under the optimum refining condition. Nanocellulose had been characterized by Fourier transformed infrared spectra, X-ray diffraction, thermogravimetric analysis, rheological measurements and transmission electron microscopy. The results showed that nanocellulose was 10–20nm in diameter, and presented lower thermal stability and crystallinity than the original cellulose. The developed nanocellulose would be a very versatile renewable material. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A new isocoumarin, 7-hydroxyl-4-methyl isocoumarine (1), together with three known monoterpenes, (3R, 4R, 6S)-3, 6-dihydroxy-1-menthene (2), (+)-(1R, 3S, 4R, 6S)-6-hydroxymenthol (3) and 4-isopropyl-1-methylcyclohex-2-ene-1, 6-diol (4), was isolated from the methanol extract of Brickellia rosmarinifolia. The structures were determined by spectroscopic means. Compounds 1, 2, 3 and 4 showed antifungal activities against Colletotrichum musae and Peronophythora litchii in vitro. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A simple and sensitive colorimetric method for cysteine detection was established based on the carboxymethyl cellulose-functionalized gold nanoparticles (CMC-AuNPs). The nanoparticles were directly synthesized with sodium carboxymethyl cellulose by a simple approach, which would protect particles against salt-induced aggregation. Then the CMC-AuNPs solution exhibited a high colorimetric selectivity to cysteine. The assay results indicated that the introduction of cysteine could induce the aggregation of the colloidal solutions at the presence of sodium chloride, displaying changes in color and in UV–vis absorption spectra. Thus an exceptionally simple, rapid method for detecting cysteine was obtained at the linear range of 10.0–100.0μM with the relative coefficient of 0.997. The proposed method possessed the advantages of simplicity and sensitivity, and was applied to real urine sample detection. The results were satisfying and the proposed method was especially appropriate for detection of cysteine in biological samples. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A novel modified monolithic column with pH-responsive polymer chains was prepared by grafting methacrylic acid onto the poly(glycidyl methacrylate-co-ethylene dimethacrylate) monolith. The grafting polymerization was achieved in an in situ manner which was performed by pumping methacrylic acid directly through an acidic hydrolysis monolithic column using potassium peroxydisulfate initiated free-radical polymerization. The grafted monolithic column was demonstrated to be the pH-responsive to the pore structure and the chromatographic characterization. The permeability of the column and the retention factors of five benzene homologues decreased due to the conformational changes of the polymer chains when the pH of mobile phase increased from 4.5 to 7.5. Furthermore, the modified monolithic column was used as the pH-responsive stationary phase and exhibited an excellent separation of four basic proteins. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A new isoryanodane diterpene, 13-deoxyitol A (1), together with a known isoryanodane diterpene, itol A (2), was isolated from the methanol extract of the seeds of Itoa orientalis. Its structure was determined by spectroscopic means. Compounds 1 and 2 showed antifeedant and contact toxic activities against various insect pests. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: An on-line solid-phase extraction (SPE)-HPLC method was developed for simultaneous screening of nicardipine and amlodipine in human plasma. A short monolithic poly(glycidyl methacrylate-co-ethylene glycol dimethacrylate) [p(GMA-EDMA)]-based weak cation-exchange (WCX) column was prepared and employed as the selective extraction sorbent, which exhibited good permeability and biocompatibility. During the on-line SPE protocol, high-abundance proteins (human serum albumin, immunoglobulin G, immunoglobulin A and transferrin) and most matrixes in plasma were fast removed while nicardipine and amlodipine were effectively trapped on this monolithic column. Furthermore, the monolithic WCX sorbent could be continuously reused more than 300 times without obvious changes in analytes extraction and proteins cleanup. The proposed method was linear over a range of 0.5–50.0ngmL−1 for both analytes with a linear regression coefficient greater than 0.998, and the limit of detection (LOD) for each analyte was 0.2ngmL−1. Validation assays also demonstrated acceptable precision and adequate recovery for simultaneous quantitative screening of nicardipine and amlodipine in human plasma. Real plasma samples from hypertensive patients receiving a dosing of 5mg antagonists were examined by using the proposed method. Results indicated that the on-line SPE-HPLC method could be applied for simultaneously monitoring of nicardipine and amlodipine in clinical plasma samples. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

In this study, polydopamine-modified graphene oxide (PGO) nanomaterials were prepared based on the self-polymerization of dopamine in a weakly alkaline environment. In the friction experiment, the lubricants with 0.15 wt% PGO nanomaterials have optimal friction properties. Subsequently, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), X-ray energy spectroscopy (EDS), and laser Raman spectroscopy were performed on the wear scar. Compared to pure oil, the friction coefficient was reduced by 31%, and the trace width was reduced by 47.69%. In addition, molecular dynamics simulations showed that PGO has the lowest diffusion coefficient among n-hexadecane and the interaction energy between PGO and n-hexadecane molecules was the largest, and oil droplets containing PGO exhibited the best adsorption performance on the surface of the Si3N4/GCr15. The results showed that compared with other additives, PGO as a lubricant additive can play a significant role in reducing friction and anti-wear. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dixon surgery for rectal cancer can lead to severe intestinal narrowing and blockage that is difficult to treat with open surgery or colonoscopy. The aim of the present study was to develop a minimally invasive approach for treating rectal anastomotic atresia based on three cases that were managed with transurethral prostate resection instrumentation. Preoperative imaging determined the distance from the anastomotic closure to the anal margin, the length of the anastomotic closure and the degree of proximal intestinal dilation for all cases. During the procedure, the anastomotic site was visualized, and a circular electrode was used to excavate and open the blockage. Membrane-like closures were directly incised to achieve satisfactory results, with an anastomotic diameter >20 mm. Those cases with tubular atresia required an initial incision using the prostate resectoscope to relieve the obstruction, followed by radial incisions until achieving an anastomotic diameter >20 mm. At 3-6 months post-dilation, two of the patients with anastomotic atresia >20 mm had satisfactory bowel movements, whereas the remaining patient experienced tumor recurrence at the anastomotic site and discontinued treatment. This case series demonstrates the potential of transurethral prostate resection instrumentation as a safe and effective minimally invasive approach for rectal anastomotic atresia. Given that prostate resection instrumentation is readily available in hospitals in China, this approach is widely accessible to most patients. Furthermore, the technique leverages existing surgical technology and practices, requiring only a shift in the surgical site. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this article is to prepare graphene/polyimide composite materials for use as bearing cage materials, improving the friction and wear performance of bearing cages. Design/methodology/approach: The oil absorption and discharge tests were conducted to evaluate the oil content properties of the materials, while the mechanical properties were analyzed through cross-sectional morphology examination. Investigation into the tribological behavior and wear mechanisms encompassed characterization and analysis of wear trace morphology in PPI-based materials. Consequently, the influence of varied graphene nanoplatelets (GN) concentrations on the oil content, mechanical and tribological properties of PPI-based materials was elucidated. Findings: The composites exhibit excellent oil-containing properties due to the increased porosity of PPI-GN composites. The robust formation of covalent bonds between GN and PPI amplifies the adhesive potency of the PPI-GN composites, thereby inducing a substantial enhancement in impact strength. Notably, the PPI-GN composites showed enhanced lubrication properties compared to PPI, which was particularly evident at a GN content of 0.5 Wt.%, as evidenced by the minimization of the average coefficient of friction and the width of the abrasion marks. Practical implications: This paper includes implications for elucidating the wear mechanism of the polyimide composites under frictional wear conditions and then to guide the optimization of oil content and tribological properties of polyimide bearing cage materials. Originality/value: In this paper, homogeneously dispersed PPI-GN composites were effectively synthesized by introducing GN into a polyimide matrix through in situ polymerization, and the lubrication mechanism of the PPI composites was compared with that of the PPI-GN composites to illustrate the composites' superiority. Peer review: The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/ILT-12-2023-0415 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Liver fibrosis poses a significant global health risk due to its association with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and the lack of effective treatments. Thus, the need to discover additional novel therapeutic targets to attenuate liver diseases is urgent. Leucine-rich repeat containing 1 (LRRC1) reportedly promotes HCC development. Previously, we found that LRRC1 was significantly upregulated in rat fibrotic liver according to the transcriptome sequencing data. Herein, in the current work, we aimed to explore the role of LRRC1 in liver fibrosis and the underlying mechanisms involved. LRRC1 expression was positively correlated with liver fibrosis severity and significantly elevated in both human and murine fibrotic liver tissues. LRRC1 knockdown or overexpression inhibited or enhanced the proliferation, migration, and expression of fibrogenic genes in the human hepatic stellate cell line LX-2. More importantly, LRRC1 inhibition in vivo significantly alleviated CCl4-induced liver fibrosis by reducing collagen accumulation and hepatic stellate cells' (HSCs) activation in mice. Mechanistically, LRRC1 promoted HSC activation and liver fibrogenesis by preventing the ubiquitin-mediated degradation of phosphorylated mothers against decapentaplegic homolog (Smad) 2/3 (p-Smad2/3), thereby activating the TGF-β1/Smad pathway. Collectively, these results clarify a novel role for LRRC1 as a regulator of liver fibrosis and indicate that LRRC1 is a promising target for antifibrotic therapies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Main observation and conclusion: The enzyme AbyU catalyses a Diels‐Alder (DA) reaction during abyssomicin C biosynthesis. In this study, AbyU is shown to convert the native substrate of another Diels‐Alderase (DAase), AbmU, to a new abyssomicin derivative, abyssomicin 7. Abyssomicin 7 is a diastereomer of the AbmU‐derived, abyssomicin 6. Using structural analyses and site‐directed mutagenesis, we unveil the molecular basis for production of abyssomicin 7, instead of abyssomicin 6, within the AbyU active site. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To investigate the hemostatic effect of transanal prostatic resectoscope technology on massive rectal bleeding after transrectal prostate biopsy. Methods From May 2016 to March 2022, 483 patients underwent transrectal prostate biopsy, 5 patients of them had hemodynamic deterioration due to massive rectal bleeding within 3 to 8 hours after operation. After active rehydration and blood transfusion, transanal prostatic resectoscope technology was applied to check the biopsy region and coagulate the active bleeding point. After hemostasis, the anal tube was retained for drainage for 24 to 72 hours and then removed. Results The average bleeding volume was about 440 mL (400 mL -1 000 mL) ; Average blood transfusion volume; RBC 2. 0 U/case, homoplasma 520 mL/case; The average operation time was 25 minutes (20-30 minutes) ; Rebleeding, local infection, hyponatremia and hypokalemia was not observed; The mean hospital stay was 4. 5 days (3-7 days) . Conclusion Transanal prostatic resectoscope technology is an effective method for rapid control of massive rectal bleeding after transrectal prostate biopsy. This method has obvious advantages in direct vision, clea vision, visible bleeding point, accurate and reliable hemostasis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Daylily has sleep-improvement effects. • Integration of omics and targeted screening provide insights. • 728 metabolites, 539 targeted metabolites and 368 differentially genes were found. • Activity of daylily is mainly through neuroactive ligand-receptor interaction. Daylily (Hemerocallis citrina Baroni, HC) is an edible plant and is traditionally considered with potential to improve sleep. Herein, based on the Drosophila activity monitoring, metabolome, targeted screening and transcriptome, the material basis and mechanism of HC on sleep-improvement was investigated. The results showed that the aqueous extracts of HC (HAE) as well as the ethanol extracts (HEE) all prolonged the total sleep time of insomnia fruit flies, especially HEE-60 and HEE-95 exhibited more significant effects. In addition, 539 of 728 found metabolites were screened as potential sleep-improved metabolites, and quercetin, linoleic acid, phenethyl caffeate, L-methionine and γ-aminobutyric acid were considered as core active metabolites. Meanwhile, 368 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were revealed by transcriptomics analysis, and the neuroactive ligand-receptor interaction was deduced as the main pathway by KEGG pathway enrichment. Furthermore, nine DEGs located in this pathway, namely betaTry, deltaTry, gammaTry, epsilonTry, etaTry, iotaTry, lambdaTry, kappaTry and CG30031 were proven being up-regulated. All these results contribute to the development of HC-related functional foods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As an efficient, safe, and environmentally friendly technology, semiconductor photocatalysis has been widely used in the removal of antibiotics from wastewater. In this work, a novel Ag/BiOI/g‐C3N4 composite photocatalytic material, BiOI/g‐C3N4, g‐C3N4, and BiOI are prepared as the photocatalysts. The morphologies, chemical properties, and photocatalytic performances of the photocatalysts are characterized using scanning electron microscope, transmission electron microscope, X‐ray diffraction, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, Fourier‐transform infrared spectrometer, ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy (UV–Vis) diffuse reflectance spectra, and photoluminescence spectra. In addition, tetracycline hydrochloride (TC) and ceftiofur sodium aqueous solutions are used to simulate wastewater and the photocatalytic degradation performances of the photocatalysts are investigated and compared under visible light. Compared to g‐C3N4, BiOI, and BiOI/g‐C3N4, the Ag/BiOI/g‐C3N4 demonstrates superior performance, increasing the removal rates of TC and ceftiofur sodium to 85.6% and 90.2%, respectively. The photocatalytic mechanism of the Ag/BiOI/g‐C3N4 may involve the promotion of the visible light–harvesting ability and inhibition of the recombination of photogenerated electron/hole pairs. Furthermore, the primary active groups in the system are identified as superoxide radicals (·O2−) and hydroxyl radicals (·OH). Herein, some valuable insights into the development of innovative photocatalytic materials are offered for the effective removal of antibiotics from water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to prepare ZnFe2O4 nanospheres, sheet MoS2 and three ZnFe2O4@MoS2 core-shell composites with various shell thicknesses, and add them to the base oil for friction and wear tests to simulate the wear conditions of hybrid bearings. Design/methodology/approach: Through the characterization and analysis of the morphology of wear scars and the elemental composition of friction films, the tribological behavior and wear mechanism of sample materials as lubricant additives were investigated and the effects of shell thickness and sample concentration on the tribological properties of core–shell composite lubricant additives were discussed. Findings: The findings demonstrate that each of the five sample materials can, to varying degrees, enhance the lubricating qualities of the base oil and that the core–shell nanocomposite sample lubricant additive has superior lubricating properties to those of ZnFe2O4 and MoS2 alone, among them ZnFe2O4@MoS2-2 core–shell composites with moderate shell thickness performed most ideally. In addition, the optimal concentration of the ZnFe2O4@MoS2 lubricant additive was 0.5 Wt.%, and a concentration that was too high led to particle deposition and affected the friction effect. Originality/value: In this work, ZnFe2O4@MoS2 core–shell composites were synthesized for the first time using ZnFe2O4 as the carrier and the lubrication mechanism of core–shell composites and single materials were compared and studied, which illustrated the advantages of core–shell composite lubricant additives. At the same time, the influence of different shell thicknesses on the lubricant additives of core–shell composites was studied. Peer review: The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/ILT-12-2022-0367/ [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents chemical formulas for the article "Guignardins A-F, Spirodioxynaphthalenes from the Endophytic Fungus Guignardia sp. KcF8 as a New Class of PTP1B and SIRT1 Inhibitors" by D. Killander and others, published in the "European Journal of Organic Chemistry" in 2014.

According to the redox ability of dopamine in a weak alkaline environment, silver nanoparticles were uniformly loaded on the surface of polydopamine-modified graphene oxide (Ag/PGO). The results show that the base oil containing Ag/PGO nanoparticles exhibits a better tribological property than base oil. The maximum decrease in wear rate and friction coefficient at different temperatures amounted to 68% and 53.6%, respectively. The tribofilm containing C, O, N, and Ag exists and plays an important role in reducing friction and increasing wear resistance. Molecular dynamics simulations show that the microscopic oil film composed of Ag/PGO and n-hexadecane has low shear deformation during the shearing process, and the oil film has low interaction energy with the upper and lower shear walls. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: A sensitive and selective fluorescence-detection platform based on carbon quantum dots (CQDs) was designed and developed for the determination of methotrexate (MTX), for the purpose of minimizing the possible toxic threat of MTX in clinics. Methods: The approach was prepared for the first time by a simple, hydrothermal method, making the synthesis and modification processes realized in one step using polyethyleneimine (PEI), and the proposed PEI-CQDs were obtained with high fluorescence quantum yield (38%). Results: MTX was found highly responsive and effective in quenching the fluorescence of the PEI-CQDs, due to a suggested fluorescence resonance energy transfer mechanism or inner-filter effect. The linear range of MTX was between 1 and 600 μmol/L under optimum conditions, with a detection limit (LOD) as low as 0.33 μmol/L. Furthermore, the fluorescent method was established for the MTX assay, and satisfactory results were acquired in real-sample determination. The average labeled quantity was 98.2%, and the average added standard recovery was 100.9%. Conclusions: The proposed PEI-CQDs showed a remarkable potential for broad applications in biological molecule determination and environmental analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Jieduan-Niwan (JDNW) formula is a traditional Chinese medicine compound created by the famous Chinese medicine expert Professor Qian Ying, and has been used clinically for decades to treat acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF) and exhibits remarkable efficacy. However, the exact mechanism remains to be discovered. As an important hepatocyte damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMP) factor, high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) is a potential therapeutic target as an accelerator of ACLF in the pathogenesis. Therefore, the present study investigated whether JDNW inhibits the overexpression and cytoplasmic translocation of HMGB1 in ACLF liver tissue and alleviates its mediated oxidative stress and apoptosis. In vivo, an immune-induced ACLF rat model was established, and then treated with JDNW for 5, 10, and 15 d. The results showed that a large number of cytoplasmic translocations of HMGB1 occurred in the ACLF group. And there was an increase in the expression of HMGB1 in the M-5 d group. After the intervention of JDNW, the overexpression and translocation of HMGB1 were inhibited. In vitro, D-GaLN caused an increase in the expression and translocation of HMGB1 in L02 cells. Similar to the inhibitor of HMGB1, JDNW serum alleviated this kind of increase. Further tests showed that JDNW attenuated ACLF-related oxidative stress and apoptosis, and the inhibition was associated with the regulation of TLR-4/NF-κB signaling pathway. In conclusion, our present findings suggest that the therapeutic effect of JDNW on ACLF was associated with the inhibition of high expression and cytoplasmic translocation of HMGB1 during the acute injury phase, thus, attenuating oxidative stress injury and apoptosis induced by HMGB1/TLR-4/NF-κB pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As one of the most characteristic ingredients of glandular trichome secretions from Nicotiana tabacum L. (tobacco), natural cembrenediols, namely, (1S,2E,4S,6R,7E,11E)-2,7,11-cembratriene-4,6-diol (α-cembrenediol/α-CBD) and its C-4 epimer (β-cembrenediol/β-CBD), have attracted considerable attention for their potent antitumor, neuroprotective, antimicrobial, and other activities. Many researchers are committed to exploring the possibility of utilizing these two cembrenediols and their derivatives both in human medicine and in agricultural fungicides. To the best of our knowledge, this review is the first to provide a comprehensive summary of the chemical modifications and bioactivities of α- and β-CBD from their discovery to the present day; the review highlights their potential medicinal value for humans. The extensive references from 1962 to 2022 provided herein were systematically gathered from the SciFinder, Web of Science, and Google Scholar databases. We expect this review to assist in providing practical ideas for future drug development based on α- and β-CBD and in further facilitating the utilization of the tobacco cembrenediols. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanocelluloses were prepared from sugarcane bagasse celluloses by dynamic high pressure microfluidization (DHPM), aiming at achieving a homogeneous isolation through the controlling of shearing force and pressure within a microenvironment. In the DHPM process, the homogeneous cellulose solution passed through chambers at a higher pressure in fewer cycles, compared with the high pressure homogenization (HPH) process. X-ray diffraction (XRD) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) demonstrated that entangled network structures of celluloses were well dispersed in the microenvironment, which provided proper shearing forces and pressure to fracture the hydrogen bonds. Gel permeation chromatography (GPC), CP/MAS 13 C NMR and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) measurements suggested that intra-molecular hydrogen bonds were maintained. These nanocelluloses of smaller particle size, good dispersion and lower thermal stability will have great potential to be applied in electronics devices, electrochemistry, medicine, and package and printing industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The fruit of Clausena lansium (wampee) is popular in southern China and warm areas of the world. Our chemical study on the fruit yielded three jasmonoid glucosides, 12-β- d -glucopyranosyloxy-6- epi -7-isocucurbic acid-1,6-lactone ( 1 ), 12-β- d -glucopyranosyloxyjasmonic acid ( 2 ) and 12-hydroxyjasmonic acid ( 3 ), two sesquiterpenes, (+)-curcumen-12-oic acid ( 4 ) and (+)-( E )-α-santalen-12-oic acid ( 5 ), two coumarins, xanthotoxol ( 6 ) and indicolactone ( 7 ), in addition to 3,4-dihydroxybenzoic acid ( 8 ), 5-hydroxymethylfuraldehyde ( 9 ), isopropyl β- d -glucopyranoside ( 10 ) and stigmasterol ( 11 ). Their structures were determined by spectroscopic methods. Compound 1 was a new metabolite and the others excluding 6 were reported from the species for the first time. Compounds 1 – 7 were evaluated for antioxidant and antibacterial activities. Among them, compound 6 showed antioxidant activity in ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) and DPPH radical scavenging assays as well as antibacterial activity against Staphyloccocus aureus and Shigella dysenteriae , while compound 5 was active against Bacillus cereus . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of oleic acid on the superparamagnetic Fe3O4nanoparticles has been investigated in this study. The addition of oleic acid could improve the particle size distribution by the formed protective layer on the surface of Fe3O4nanoparticles. All of Fe3O4coated with oleic acid displayed superparamagnetic characterizations, and the interaction between two competing mechanisms, agglomeration and chelation, was discussed to explain the function of oleic acid. The optimal addition of oleic acid was fixed to be 4 wt%, which obtained the highest magnetization saturation value (Ms) of 82.066 emu/g. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]