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Excellent extraction ability and easy regeneration of the extractant are highly important for the recovery of acetic acid from water by solvent extraction. In this paper, the extraction capability ...

The modification of active sites in electrocatalysts is important for energy conversion and storage systems. Here, CoOx/N-doped graphene/polymeric carbon nitride (CoOx/NG/PCN) hybrid was prepared by thermal annealing method. The introduction of NG greatly prevented the aggregation of CoOx nanoparticles. Further doping PCN into CoOx/NG, CoOx/NG/PCN showed wrinkle and cross-linked structure. And the introduction of PCN can effectively increase the contents of pyridinic N and numbers of O defects to result in the improved oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER) performance. Detailed experiments suggested that the onset and half-wave potentials (Eonset and E1/2) of CoOx/NG positively shifted of 110 and 100 mV, respectively compared to pure CoOx nanoparticles. When further doping PCN into CoOx/NG, Eonset and E1/2 were further positively shifted of 40 and 110 mV, respectively. More importantly, such ORR activity exhibited comparative activity and even more superior stability and excellent methanol tolerance than commercial Pt/C. Additionally, the resulted CoOx/NG/PCN also showed superior OER activity. Compared with CoOx/NG and CoOx, the overpotential of CoOx/NG/PCN for 10 mA/cm2 current densities was decreased for 160 mV and 180 mV, respectively. Especially, the investigation herein may assist in a new insight to bond configurations modification of catalysts and can be extended to other catalytic systems.

The measurements of activity coefficients at infinite dilution ( γ i ∞ ) for 33 solutes including alkanes, cycloalkanes, alkenes, aromatic hydrocarbons, acetonitrile, acetone, tetrahydrofuran, ethyl acetate, 1,4-dioxane, chloromethanes, alcohols in the ionic liquid (IL) 1-propyl-3-methylimidazolium bromide, [PMIM][Br], were determined by gas-liquid chromatography at five temperatures at 10 K intervals in range of (323.15–363.15) K. The densities of [PMIM][Br] were measured at the temperature range from 323.15 K to 363.15 K. The gas-liquid partition coefficients, K L at infinite dilution from 323.15 K to 363.15 K and the fundamental thermodynamic functions, such as the partial molar excess enthalpies at infinite dilution ( H - i E , ∞ ), Gibbs free energies ( G - i E , ∞ ) and entropies ( T ref S - i E , ∞ ) were calculated at a reference temperature T r e f = 298.15. The Hildebrand’s solubility parameters of the IL [PMIM][Br] were also determined by the regular solution theory (RST) combined with Flory ‘‘combinatorial’’ equation. The values of selectivity and capacity for n-hexane ( i )/benzene ( j ), cyclohexane ( i )/benzene ( j ) at T = 323.15 K were calculated from γ i ∞ and compared to literature values for [Br]-based ILs for the same separation problems.

The development of new catalytic materials is conducive to solving the global energy crisis and environmental problems. In this work, multipurpose catalyst unsubstituted iron(II) phthalocyanine/car...

The activity coefficients at infinite dilution, γ i ∞ , for 33 solutes, including alkanes, cycloalkanes, alkenes, aromatic hydrocarbons, acetonitrile, acetone, tetrahydrofuran, ethyl acetate, 1,4-dioxane, chloromethanes, alcohols in the ionic liquid 1-hexyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride, [HMIM][Cl], were determined by gas–liquid chromatography at temperatures range of (313.15–363.15) K. The gas-liquid partition coefficients, K L were calculated for all solutes. The densities of [HMIM][Cl] were measured at the temperature range from 313.15 K to 363.15 K. The values of the partial molar excess enthalpies at infinite dilution H - i E , ∞ were derived fromthe temperature dependence of the γ i ∞ values. The entropies T ref S - i E , ∞ and Gibbs energies G - i E , ∞ of organic solutes in [HMIM][Cl] at a reference temperature T ref = 298.15 K were also calculated from the γ i ∞ values. The Hildebrand’s solubility parameters of the IL [HMIM][Cl] were also determined by the regular solution theory (RST) combined with Flory ‘‘combinatorial’’ equation. The values of selectivity and capacity for n-hexane ( i )/benzene ( j ), cyclohexane ( i )/benzene ( j ) were calculated from γ i ∞ and compared to literature values for [HMIM]-based or [Cl]-based ILs for the same separation problems.

Developing effective sensing method for trace analysis of ampicillin (AMP) is urgent and significant due to its residue possess serious threats to human health. Herein, a p-n heterojunction, on the basis of p-type BiFeO3 nanoparticles coupled n-typed ultrathin graphite-like carbon nitride (utg-C3N4) nanosheets, has been designed and synthesized via a simple electrostatic interaction strategy. Such p-n heterojunction has two advantages: one is capable to narrow the band gap of photoactive materials from 2.20 eV of BiFeO3 down to 2.04 eV of BiFeO3/utg-C3N4, leading to improve the efficiency of visible light utilization; and the other is to facilitate the charge separation rate, resulting in the boosted photoelectrochemical (PEC) performance of BiFeO3/utg-C3N4. Under visible light illumination, the photocurrent of the resulted BiFeO3/utg-C3N4 was 7.0-fold enhanced than that of pure BiFeO3 nanoparticles, and indeed 2.3-fold enhanced comparing to BiFeO3/bulk-C3N4. Based on excellent PEC properties of BiFeO3/utg-C3N4, an on-off-on PEC aptasensor was successfully fabricated for ampicillin (AMP) determination with highly selectivity and sensitivity. The fabricated PEC aptasensor exhibited excellent PEC performance with a broad linear in the range from 1 × 10–12 mol L–1 to 1 × 10−6 mol L–1 as well as a low detection limit of 3.3 × 10–13 mol L–1 (S/N = 3), and also good feasibility in real sample. The excellent analytical performance indicated that PEC aptasensor on the basis of the visible light driven BiFeO3/utg-C3N4 heterojunction can provide a promising biosensor platform for sensitive detection AMP in food and environment analysis.

The activity coefficients at infinite dilution ( γ i ∞ ), gas–liquid partition coefficients ( K L ) of organic solutes (n-alkanes, alkenes, alkyl benzenes, acetonitrile, acetone, tetrahydrofuran, ethyl acetate, chloromethanes, alcohols and 1,4-dioxane) in the ionic liquid 1-Hexyl-2,3-dimethylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate ([HMMIM][BF4]) have been measured using the gas–liquid chromatographic method (GLC) at five temperatures: 313.15 K, 323.15 K, 333.15 K, 343.15 K, 353.15 K. The density of [HMMIM][BF4], as a function of temperature, was determined in atmosphere. The values of the partial molar excess enthalpies at infinite dilution ( H ‾ i E , ∞ ) were derived from the temperature dependence of the In γ i ∞ values. The entropies ( T ref S ‾ i E , ∞ ) and Gibbs energies ( G ‾ i E , ∞ ) of organic solutes in [HMMIM][BF4] at a reference temperature T r ef = 298.15 K were calculated from the γ i ∞ values. The Hildebrand’s solubility parameters of the IL [HMMIM][BF4] were determined by the regular solution theory (RST) combined with Flory ‘‘combinatorial’’ equation. Selectivity ( S ij ∞ ) and capacity ( k j ∞ ) at infinite dilution at 323.15 K have been determined for n-hexane ( i )/benzene (j), cyclohexane ( i )/benzene (j). The results were analyzed in comparison to literature data for alkylimidazolium ionic liquids (ILs) with [ BF 4 ] - . The interaction between the IL and the individual solutes can be disclosed by the linear free energy relationship (LFER) analysis.

A series of multifunctional 3-piperazinecarboxylate sarsasapogenin derivatives were designed and synthesized against Alzheimer's disease (AD). The protection against H2O2-triggered oxidative stress in PC12 cells, and inhibition on LPS-induced NO production in RAW264.7 cell lines in vitro by these derivatives were firstly evaluated. Most of the compounds showed better antioxidant and antiinflammatory activities compared with sarsasapogenin, especially AA34 and AA36. Structure-activity relationships revealed that benzyl group, electron-donating group and intramolecular hydrogen bond might be beneficial to enhancing their neuroprotective activities. Moreover, Aβ42 was the optimum predicted target based on the high 3D molecular similarity between compound AA36 and caprospinol. In the following experiments, AA36 significantly protected PC12 cells from Aβ-induced damage and improved learning and memory impairments in Aβ-injected mice. Thus AA36 is regarded as a potent anti-AD agent and N-substituted piperazinecarboxylate can be served as a promising structural unit for anti-AD drug design.

Activity coefficients at infinite dilution ( γ i ∞ ) and (gas-liquid) partition coefficients ( K L ) for organic compounds (alkanes, alkenes, alkyl benzenes, acetonitrile, acetone, tetrahydrofuran, ethyl acetate, 1,4-dioxane, chloromethanes, and alcohols) in the ionic liquid (IL) 1-octyl-2,3-dimethylimidazolium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide ([OMMIM][NTf2]) have been measured by the gas-liquid chromatographic(GLC) method in the temperature range of (313.15 to 353.15) K. Density, ρ as a function of temperature for [OMMIM][NTf2] at pressure p = 101.3 kPa were measured. The values of the partial molar excess enthalpies at infinite dilution ( H ¯ i E , ∞ ) were derived from the temperature dependence of the γ i ∞ values. The entropies ( T r ef S ¯ i E , ∞ ) and Gibbs energies ( G ¯ i E , ∞ ) of organic solutes in [OMMIM][NTf2] at a reference temperature T r ef = 298.15 K were also calculated from the γ i ∞ values. The Hildebrand’s solubility parameters of the IL [OMMIM][NTf2] were also determined by the regular solution theory (RST) combined with Flory “combinatorial” equation. The linear free energy relationship (LFER) analysis of the results was performed to disclose molecular interactions operating between the IL and the individual solutes. Selectivity ( S i j ∞ ) and capacity ( k j ∞ ) at infinite dilution at 323.15 K have been determined for n-hexane ( i )/benzene ( j ), cyclohexane ( i )/benzene ( j ) and compared to literature values for [NTf2]-based ILs for the same separation problems. For three isomeric xylenes separation problems, S i j ∞ at 323.15 K was also obtained from the γ i ∞ values.

Activity coefficients at infinite dilution ( γ i ∞ ) and (gas–liquid) partition coefficients ( K L ) for organic compounds (alkanes, alkenes, alkyl benzenes, acetonitrile, acetone, tetrahydrofuran, ethyl acetate, 1,4-dioxane, chloromethanes, and alcohols) and water in the ionic liquid (IL) 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium perchlorate ([BMIM][ClO4]) have been measured by the (gas-liquid) chromatographic method in the temperature range of (303.15–353.15) K. Density, ρ as a function of temperature for [BMIM][ClO4] at pressure p = 101.3 kPa were measured. The values of the partial molar excess enthalpies at infinite dilution ( H ¯ i E , ∞ ) were derived from the temperature dependence of the γ i ∞ values. The entropies ( T ref S ¯ i E , ∞ ) and Gibbs free energies ( G ¯ i E , ∞ ) of organic solutes in [BMIM][ClO4] at a reference temperature T ref = 298.15 K were also calculated from the γ i ∞ values. The Hildebrand’s solubility parameters of the IL [BMIM][ClO4] were also determined by the regular solution theory (RST) combined with Flory ‘‘combinatorial’’ equation. Selectivity ( S ij ∞ ) and capacity ( k j ∞ ) at infinite dilution at 323.15 K have been determined for n-hexane (i)/benzene (j), cyclohexane (i)/benzene (j)). The results were analyzed in comparison to literature values for 1-buthyl-3-methylimidazolium-based ionic liquids (ILs) for the same separation problems. For three isomeric xylenes separation problems, selectivity at 323.15 K were also obtained from the γ i ∞ values.

Organic–inorganic hybrid adsorbents based on sepiolite and cellulose were prepared through an easy-to-handle procedure. Hydrogen-bonding existed between the silanol groups (Si–OH) on the sepiolite surface and the hydroxyl groups of the cellulose structure resulting in the formation of hybrid beads with good synergistic effects. Incorporation of the inorganic molecule sepiolite into the renewable polymer cellulose opened an opportunity for the development of alternative environment-friendly adsorbents with improved adsorption efficiency as well as enhanced thermal stability compared with neat cellulose beads. The utility of the obtained sepiolite/cellulose beads was demonstrated by investigating their performance for the removal of malachite green (MG). The maximum adsorption capacity of MG on sepiolite/cellulose beads was close to the calculated results from the Langmuir adsorption isotherm, and the adsorption kinetics followed well to the pseudo-second-order model.

Cyclophosphamide (CP) is a widely utilized chemotherapy drug. CP and its metabolite, acrolein, could induce hepatotoxicity. In this study, Cichorium glandulosum seed (CGS) effectively mitigated CP-induced hepatotoxicity in mice. Protection of cynarin, the major compound of CGS, against acrolein cytotoxicity in HepG2 cells was studied. Pretreatment with cynarin could improve cell survival against acrolein cytotoxicity. Cynarin restored the balance of glutathione (GSH) and reactive oxygen species (ROS), and inhibited mitochondrial depolarization. The kinetics of Nrf2 expression in cytosolic and nuclear fractions were observed after acrolein exposure. Intracellular Nrf2 expression was triggered within 6 h of exposure but did not translocate to the nucleus. Cynarin pretreatment ameliorated the expression and activity of GSH S-transferase and triggered Nrf2 nuclear translocation. In conclusion, treatment with CGS and cynarin protects liver injury against CP and acrolein hepatotoxicity via improvement of GSH activity and activation of the Nrf2 pathway.

Activity coefficients at infinite dilution ( γ i ∞ ) and gas-liquid partition coefficients (KL) for organic solutes: n-alkanes, alkenes, alkyl benzenes, acetonitrile, acetone, tetrahydrofuran, ethyl acetate, and chloromethanes in the ionic liquid (IL) 1-hexyl-2,3-dimethylimidazolium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide ([HMMIM][NTf2]) have been measured by the gas-liquid chromatographic method (GLC) in the temperature range of (313.15–353.15) K. The thermodynamic functions at infinite dilution as partial molar excess enthalpies at infinite dilution ( H ‾ i E, ∞ ) were derived from the temperature dependence of the γ i ∞ values. Gibbs energies ( G ‾ i E, ∞ ) and entropies ( T ref S ‾ i E, ∞ ) of organic solutes in [HMMIM][NTf2] at a reference temperature Tref = 298.15 K were also calculated from the γ i ∞ values. The solubility parameters of the IL [HMMIM][NTf2] were determined by two methods. Selectivity ( S ij ∞ ) and capacity ( k j ∞ ) at infinite dilution at 323.15 K have been determined for n-hexane (i)/benzene (j), cyclohexane (i)/benzene (j). The results were analyzed in comparison to literature data for alkylimidazolium-based ILs with [NTf2]−. For three isomeric xylenes separation problems, selectivity at 323.15 K were also obtained from the γ i ∞ values.

BACKGROUND Limited progress has been made in improving therapeutic outcomes for glioblastoma (GBM) patients. Enzastaurin (enza) is an oral PKC-β inhibitor that suppresses signaling through the PKC and PI3K/AKT pathways. Although enza did not significantly improve survival in a prior Phase 1/2 study, we have identified a novel genomic biomarker, DGM1, that may predict a response to enza in GBM. PRIMARY OBJECTIVE To assess whether enza added to temozolomide and radiation therapy (RT) improves overall survival (OS) in newly diagnosed GBM patients who possess the DGM1 biomarker. POPULATION Adults with newly diagnosed GBM regardless of DGM1 status who have undergone surgical resection and are candidates for chemoradiation. Approximately 318 patients will be enrolled. DGM1 status will be determined prior to analysis. DESIGN This is a randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled study. Patients will be stratified by MGMT and IDH1 status and by geographic region. Treatment will be divided into 3 phases. In the Concurrent Phase (6 weeks), patients will receive RT plus temozolomide and either enzastaurin or placebo. Patients will then enter the Single-Agent Phase and receive either enza or placebo (21-35 days). Then, patients will enter the Adjuvant Phase and receive temozolomide with either enza or placebo (6-12 cycles) followed by enza or placebo alone (to 24 cycles total). ANALYSIS The primary efficacy endpoint of OS will be analyzed using stratified log-rank test for all DGM1-positive randomized patients. The study has approximately 90% power to detect a HR of 0.63 assuming 196 OS events based on a 2.5% one-sided false positive error rate. Statistical significance would be achieved with an estimated observed HR < 0.76. Safety evaluation will include all patients receiving at least one dose of enza or placebo. If OS in DGM1-positive patients is statistically significant, OS in the overall population will be assessed.

Coptis chinensis inflorescence is traditionally used as tea and has been popular in the local market. C. chinensis inflorescence extract (CE) exhibits protective effects against carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced damage, but the underlying mechanism remains unclear. The main chemicals of CE were detected, purified, and identified in this study. CE and linarin could reverse changes in cell viability, decrease alanine aminotransferase and aspartate transaminase levels, and reduce reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation induced by CCl4 in HepG2 cells. CE and linarin could also phosphorylate mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) and up-regulate Kelth-like ECH-associated protein (Keap1). The pathways of MAPKs and Keap1 lead to the separation of Keap1 and nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 (Nrf2). Free Nrf2 transferred to the nucleus and enhanced the expression of phase II detoxification enzymes. This study provides a scientific basis for the use of C. chinensis inflorescence, which exhibits a hepatoprotective function, as a supplement in the food industry.

Activity coefficients at infinite dilution ( γ i ∞ ) for organic solutes: alkanes, alkenes, and alkyl benzenes in two ionic liquids (ILs) 1,3-dimethylimidazolium dimethylphosphate ([MMIM][DMP]) and 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium dimethylphosphate ([EMIM][DMP]) have been measured by the gas–liquid chromatographic method (GLC). The measurements were carried out in the temperature range of (313.15 to 363.15) K. The values of the partial molar excess enthalpies at infinite dilution ( H ‾ i E , ∞ ) were derived from the temperature dependence of the γ i ∞ values. The entropies ( T ref S ‾ i E , ∞ ) and Gibbs energies ( G ‾ i E , ∞ ) of organic solutes at a reference temperature Tref = 298.15 K were also calculated from the γ i ∞ values. Selectivity ( S ij ∞ ) and capacity ( k j ∞ ) at infinite dilution at T = 323.15 K have been determined for hexane (i)/benzene (j), cyclohexane (i)/benzene (j). The results were analyzed in comparison to literature data for other ILs with the [MMIM] and [EMIM] cations. For three isomeric xylenes separation problems, selectivity at T = 323.15 K were also obtained from the γ i ∞ values.

To systematically study the chemical constituents in Magnolia officinalis var. biloba fruits, nine phenylethanoid glycosides were isolated by solvent extraction, silica gel, and preparative high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Their structures were elucidated by 1D and 2D NMR analyses, including COSY, HMQC and HMBC correlations, and HPLC analysis of sugar residue. Nine phenylethanoid glycosides, namely, magnoloside Ia (1), magnoloside Ic (2), crassifolioside (3), magnoloside Ib (4), magnoloside IIIa (5), magnoloside IVa (6), magnoloside IIa (7), magnoloside IIb (8) and magnoloside Va (9), were first isolated from the n-butanol fraction of Magnolia officinalis var. biloba fruits alcohol extract. Free radical scavenging activities of the nine phenylethanoid glycosides were assessed using the DPPH, ABTS, and superoxide anion radical scavenging assays. Simultaneously, protective effects of all compounds against free radical-induced oxidative damage were evaluated by two different kinds of mitochondrial damage model. The protective effects were assessed by mitochondrial swelling, the formations of malondialdehyde (MDA) and lipid hydroperoxide (LOOH), the activities of catalase (CAT), glutathione reductase (GR) and superoxide dismutase (SOD). All phenylethanoid glycosides showed significant protective effects.

The infinite dilution activity coefficients ( γ i ∞ ) and gas–liquid partition coefficients (KL) of solutes in the ionic liquids (ILs) are important parameters of thermodynamic properties. They can evaluate the separation selectivity ( S ij ∞ ) of ILs and screen out suitable extractants for difficult separation systems. The retention times of solutes in IL 1-propyl-2,3-dimethylimidazolium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide [PMMIM][NTf2] were measured by gas chromatography (GC) to calculate the γ i ∞ and the ΚL values of organic solutes (eg. n-alkanes, alkyl benzenes, acetonitrile, tetrahydrofuran, ethyl acetate, etc.) in [PMMIM][NTf2] at 303.15 K-353.15 K. The density of [PMMIM][NTf2], as a function of temperature, was measured at p = 101.3 kPa. The values of the partial molar excess enthalpies at infinite dilution ( H - i E , ∞ ) were derived from the T dependence of the l n γ i ∞ . The entropies ( T ref S - i E , ∞ ) and Gibbs free energies ( G - i E , ∞ ) of organic solutes in [PMMIM][NTf2] at a reference temperature Τref = 298.15 K can be calculated from the γ i ∞ values. The Hildebrand’s solubility parameters of the IL [PMMIM][NTf2] were obtained from the regular solution theory (RST) combined with Flory “combinatorial” equation. At 323.15 K, the selectivity ( S ij ∞ ) of n-hexane (i)/benzene (j) and cyclohexane (i)/benzene (j) and the capacity ( k j ∞ ) at infinite dilution of benzene have been determined. The results were analyzed by comparing with literature data for alkylimidazolium-based ILs with [NTf2]−.

Ionic liquids are increasingly attracting the attention of researchers in both academia and industry. However, research into ionic liquids is mainly limited in chemistry, and the electromagnetic characteristics and microfluidic/optofluidic applications of ionic liquids have been rarely studied. Here, ionic liquids are used as a new type of fluid material for microfluidics/optofluidics, and the research on magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) microfluidic drive of ionic liquids is conducted using hydrophilic $[{\rm bmim}]{\rm BF}_{4}$ and hydrophobic $[{\rm bmim}]{\rm NTf}_{2}$ . The experimental study shows that ionic liquids can be driven by Lorentz force to induce laminar flow. The flow rates of $[{\rm bmim}]{\rm NTf}_{2}$ are 2.7 and 7.8 $\mu{\rm l}/{\rm s}$ at applied direct-current potentials of 6 and 8 V, respectively, in a 0.4-T magnetic field. The experimental results of the two ionic liquids and electrolytes are compared. Moreover, the experimental results are compared with the theoretical data calculated using a numerical simulation and Poiseuille's law, and the limitation of Poiseuille's law is pointed for the MHD drive. The conducted research can promote the application of ionic liquids in microfluidics or optofluidics. $\hfill{[2013\hbox{-}0323]}$

Activity coefficients at infinite dilution ( γ i ∞ ) and (gas + liquid) partition coefficients (KL) for organic solutes: alkanes, alkenes, alkyl benzenes, acetonitrile, acetone, tetrahydrofuran, ethyl acetate, and chloromethanes in the ionic liquid (IL) 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium methyl sulfate ([BMIM][CH3SO4]) have been measured by the (gas + liquid) chromatographic method in the temperature range of (313.15 to 363.15) K. The values of the partial molar excess enthalpies at infinite dilution ( H ‾ i E, ∞ ) were derived from the temperature dependence of the γ i ∞ values. The entropies ( T ref S ‾ i E, ∞ ) and Gibbs free energies ( G ‾ i E, ∞ ) of organic solutes in [BMIM][CH3SO4] at a reference temperature Tref = 298.15 K were also calculated from the γ i ∞ values. The solubility parameters of the IL [BMIM][CH3SO4] were also determined by the regular solution theory (RST). The linear free energy relationship (LFER) analysis of the results was performed to disclose molecular interactions operating between the IL and the individual solutes.

High quality impregnating pitch with low quinoline insoluble (QI) content and high coking value (CV) is required during the production of ultrahigh power graphite electrodes and C/C composites. High quality impregnating pitch using medium temperature coal tar pitch as raw material was prepared by a new route. The medium temperature pitch was first thermally treated to increase the CV and the β-resin content, then the QI was separated and removed by sedimentation with mixed solvent. For the traditional process technology, thermal polymerisation is operated after the removal of QI. The effects of sedimentation temperature, solvent ratio, aromatic/aliphatic ratio and sedimentation time on QI content, softening point (SP) and CV of impregnating pitch were discussed. The optimal process conditions were determined. The samples of high quality impregnating pitch with 82°C of SP, 52·22% of CV were obtained by adjusting the operating conditions. The CV of 52·22% was significantly ...

Supplementation with iron-fortified foods is an effective method for treating iron deficiency diseases. However, traditional iron agents used to treat anemia of inflammation (AI) have little effect. In this study, two types of iron liposomes, heme liposomes (HEME-LIP) and ferric citrate liposomes (FAC-LIP), were prepared by the rotary-evaporated film-ultrasonication method, and the encapsulation efficiencies, microstructures, size distributions and zeta potentials were assessed. Both types of iron liposomes showed stable physical characteristics. When used to treat rat models of AI, FAC-LIP and HEME-LIP could increase serum iron levels by 119% and 54% higher than did ferric citrate (FAC) and heme, respectively. Furthermore, the hepcidin, a key regulator of iron homeostasis was up-regulated by these iron liposomes, especially by HEME-LIP. These results indicate that the absorption of iron liposomes was improved over that of unencapsulated iron agents. Thus, iron liposomes may be used to fortify food in treating iron deficiency diseases, especially AI.

The black liquor contains a large amount of suspended solids, organic pollutants and toxic substances, the black liquor discharged directly into water bodies will lead to serious pollution. So we regards the alkaline pulping black liquor as a research object, using autoclave to heat the mixture of aluminum chloride and soda black liquor lignin. By changing the heating temperature and the pH before the heat treatment, we analyze the lignin and carbohydrates in the cooking liquid to study cleavage situation and the corresponding structural changes. The results show that the lignin content accompanied the increase in temperature, organic matter content decreased and part of the decomposition of organic matter. Without adjusting pH, the lignin content is small and ash (inorganic) content is higher.

The lignin will drag interference in the system of the sugar determination. Dual wavelength spectrophotometry can remove the interference when making use of the DNS to detect the reducing sugar content in the black liquor. After the analysis to the absorbency graphs of the lignin and the glucose dissolved in the DNS solution at specific wave length region in the ultraviolet-visible light, and the contrast between the coefficients of the relation curves between their absorbency and their concentration at specific wave length, the test wave length is intended to be 520 and 570nm. From the relation curves between the absorbency of the lignin and its concentration at 520nm and 570nm, the magnification coefficient of the differential signal were defined as K2=5.338, K1=3.288.The correction index k=1.2. Then the concentration c (g/L) of the glucose solution can be figured out through formula c=(S/k-0.0165)×M/0.821.Then a group of glucose solution with same glucose addition but different lignin addition had been measured. So this method is effective to detect the reducing sugar content in the black liquor.

On the basis of the quantitative structure-property relationship (QSPR) method and the quantum chemical descriptors including molecular van der Waals volume (Vmc), dipole moments (μ), the most negative formal charge in solute molecule (q-), and the most positive formal charge on a hydrogen atom in solute molecule (q+) of organic compounds, the values of activity coefficients at infinite dilution, , for 16 solutes in ionic liquid 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium diethylphosphate ([EMIM][DEP]) at 323.15 K were correlated with the descriptors. The result showed that the QSPR model had a good correlation and could successfully describe . The quantitative relationship between organic molecular structure and in [EMIM][DEP] was obtained and the correlation parameters were analyzed to understand the interactions that affect activity coefficients at infinite dilution.

Base on structural descriptors including dipole moments (μ), Energy gap (∆ε), hydration energy (∆H), and hydrophobic parameter lg P of 25 organic solutes, the quantitative structure-property relationship (QSPR) method was used to correlate the values of activity coefficients at infinite dilution, , for the solutes in ionic liquid 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate ([EMIM][BF4]) at 323.15 K. The result showed that the QSPR model had a good correlation and could successfully describe . The quantitative relationship between organic molecular structure and in [EMIM][BF4] was obtained and the correlation parameters were analyzed to understand the interactions that affect activity coefficients at infinite dilution.

A new intumescent flame-retardant (IFR) system consisting of expandable graphite (EG) and ammonium polyphosphate (APP) was applied in acrylonitrile–butadiene–styrene (ABS) resin. A synergistic effect between EG and APP on the flame retardancy of ABS was observed. Fixing the total loading of flame retardant at 15 wt %, the limited oxygen index (LOI) could reach 31 vol % at a weight ratio of 3 : 1 for EG and APP. While LOI values of EG- and APP-filled ABS were only 26.0 and 21.5 vol % at the same loading, respectively. The UL-94 vertical burning test suggested that samples with different ratios of EG and APP could all pass V-0 rating while the samples containing EG and APP alone only passed V-1 rating. Thermogravimetric analysis indicated that the addition of EG and APP (3 : 1 by weight) to ABS led to an increase in the amount of high-temperature residue by 11.8 wt %, and a decrease of mass loss rate by 0.7%/°C compared with pure ABS. Scanning electronic microscopy revealed a homogeneous compact intumescent char layer of ABS/EG/APP samples. Based on our experiment and combined with others' previous studies, the synergistic mechanism is inferred. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012

CoCO3 particles with diverse morphologies were successfully synthesized through a solvothermal method using cobalt salt and urea as the reactants with the assistance of sodium dodecylsulphonate. Co3O4 particles which kept the spherical morphology were obtained by a subsequent calcinating process at a series of temperatures from 350 to 550 °C. It is found that the average diameter of Co3O4 spheres decreases with the increase of calcination temperature. Additionally, the influence of solvent and sodium dodecylsulphonate on the product morphology has been employed, and a possible formation mechanism is also proposed. Thermogravimetric analysis reveals that Co3O4 microspheres show a potential application as catalyst in the thermal degradation of ammonium perchlorate.

The novel peanut-like Co3O4 were successfully synthesized through a simple solvothermal method employing cobalt nitrate, ethylene glycol, hexamethylenetetramine, and sodium dodecylsulphonate as the starting materials at different synthetic temperatures. The composition, morphology and structure of the product were characterized by X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The results showed that the final product was the cubic spinel of Co3O4 with peanut-like morphology. The thermogravimetric analysis technique indicated the peanut-like Co3O4 enhanced catalytic performance for ammonium perchlorate and is a promising candidate for catalytic application.

Metallopolymer nanocomposites has attracted much attention recently. The impregnation of organometallic compound from the supercritical solution into the polymer matrix has several advantages. The impregnation process isotherm of bis(2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-3,5-heptanedionato) (1,5-cyclooctadiene) ruthenium (II) (Ru(cod)(tmhd)2) into polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) film in supercritical carbon dioxide (scCO2) was investigated. The experiments for determining the isotherm were carried out at 40 °C and 10.34 MPa. It was found that the impregnation isotherm is linear up to the saturation concentration of the precursor in scCO2fluid phase. The slope of the linear curve defined equilibrium partition coefficient K provides a measure of the partitioning of Ru(cod)(tmhd)2between the PDMS film and scCO2fluid phase and it is constant under the same conditions. It showed that K is mainly govered by the density of scCO2and does not change much with temperature at a constant density of scCO2.

An emulsion polymerization method was employed to prepare pulverized expandable graphite (pEG)-poly(methyl methacrylate-acrylic acid) copolymer [(PMA)] composite particles, and then the pEG-P(MA) particles were used for a flame retardant of the rigid polyurethane foam (RPUF). Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy data demonstrated the existence of P(MA) in the pEG-P(MA) particles, and the result of the thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) indicated that the content of P(MA) was 24.3 wt %. Morphological observation showed that the pEG particles were encapsulated by a layer of polymer coating to form typical core–shell composite particles. Due to the possible reaction between COOH of pEG-P(MA) and R-CNO of isocyanate, the compatibility between the composite particles and the RPUF matrix was highly enhanced. In contrast to the pEG, the limiting oxygen index (LOI), the horizontal and vertical burning tests showed the pEG-P(MA) composite particles could improve the flame retardancy effectively. The improved flame retardancy of the RPUF matrix was attributed to the increased expansion volume ratio of pEG-P(MA) particles as exposed to fire. The dynamical mechanical analysis (DMA) showed that the incorporation of the core–shell particles could improve the storage modulus and tan δ of the RPUF composites. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2011

A silica supported Cu catalyst with good performance for ethylene glycol (EG) production was prepared by the hydrolysis of tetramethoxysilane (TMOS) in one phase solution using methanol as co-solvent, followed by the precipitation of copper on SiO2 by ammonia evaporation. XRD, SEM and TEM were carried out to characterize the structural and morphology properties of the catalyst. The results showed that Cu particles were homogeneously dispersed on the support and thus lead to the high catalytic performance.

The Cu/SiO 2 catalysts were in situ synthesized by the hydrolysis of tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS) in one phase solution using ethanol as co-solvent or TEOS/H 2 O two phases solution, followed by the precipitation of copper on SiO 2 by ammonia evaporation. In the hydrogenation of dimethyl oxalate, the catalyst prepared by one phase hydrolysis exhibited higher activity and ethylene glycol (EG) selectivity at lower temperature than that of two phases due to its larger BET surface area and multimodal pore distribution. At 488–503 K, the catalyst prepared in one phase solution with water/ethanol (W/E) volume ratio of 3:1 exhibited 90–95% EG selectivity, while catalyst prepared by two phase hydrolysis reached 90% EG selectivity only at 498–503 K.

In this study, magnetic microspheres Fe3O4 were fabricated by a simple microwave assisted-solvothermal method. The obtained products were characterized by X- ray diffraction [XRD], which exhibit the peaks of cubic phase magnetite iron oxide [Fe3O4]. The position and relative intensity of all diffraction peaks match well with those of the commercial magnetite powder (Aldrich catalog No. 31,006-9). semi electron microscopy [SEM], transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) techniques applied to study the structure, phase purity and morphology, respectively and obtained results show that particles are spherical in shape and each sphere consists of aggregation of many small spheres. On the basis of obtained experimental results possible formation mechanism was discussed.

In order to enrich the variety of copper sulfide and enhance its currently existing applications, CuS nestlike hollow spheres assembled by microflakes were successfully synthesized through an oil−w...

The activity coefficients at infinite dilution, γi∞, for 16 organic solutes, alkanes, alkenes, and alkyl benzenes in glycerol, have been measured by the gas−liquid chromatographic method at five temperatures from (303.15 to 343.15) K. The overall uncertainty was estimated to be about 5 %. The partial molar excess enthalpies at infinite dilution, HiE,∞, of the solutes in glycerol were also derived from the temperature dependence of the γi∞ values.

Phytochemical investigation of the radix of Angelica sinensis has led to the isolation two new ceramides, angelicamide A (1) and B (2), along with one known ceramide, (2S, 3S, 4R, 8E)-2-[(2′R)-2′-hydroxytetracosanoyl]-8-octadecene-1,3,4-triol (3). Their structures were determined by spectroscopic methods including IR, NMR (1D and 2D NMR) and MS. This is the first report on the occurrence of ceramides in the Angelica genus.

Lysozyme crystallization was conducted in the ionic liquid (IL) 1-butyl-3-methylimidizolium tetrafluoroborate ([BMIm][BF4]) with different buffer/IL proportions. It was found that the addition of [BMIm][BF4] could promote the crystallization process, during which more lager single crystals with controllable morphologies could be obtained due to the manageable crystal growth velocity. A probable explanation was proposed based on the influence of the ionic polarization and kinetics in the lysozyme crystallization. Moreover, the transform in coordination number and the relative growth rate of different crystal faces were discussed. (© 2008 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)

Densities and viscosities for the binary mixtures of H2O (1) + 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium trifluoromethanesulfonate ([BMIM][CF3SO3]) (2) were measured over the entire mole fraction range from (303.15 to 343.15) K at atmospheric pressure. Excess molar volumes and viscosity deviations as a function of mole fraction average were derived, and the results were fitted to the Redlich−Kister equation using a multiparametric nonlinear regression method. Estimated coefficients of the Redlich−Kister equation and standard error calculated from the Redlich−Kister equation to the experimental data are also presented. The results show that the densities and viscosities are dependent on water content and temperature.

Activity coefficients at infinite dilution γi∞ have been measured for 17 polar solutes (linear and branched C1 to C5 alcohols, acetonitrile, acetone, 1,4-dioxane, tetrahydrofuran, ethyl acetate, and chloromethanes) in the ionic liquid 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium trifluoromethanesulfonate ([BMIM][CF3SO3]) by the gas–liquid chromatographic method with the ionic liquid as the stationary phase. The measurements were carried out in the temperature range of (303.15 to 363.15) K. The partial molar excess enthalpies at infinite dilution HiE,∞ of the solutes in the ionic liquid were also derived from the temperature dependence of the γi∞ values.

Chemistry was developed to synthesize the title series of compounds. The ability of these novel ligands to bind to the glucocorticoid receptor was investigated. These compounds were also tested in a series of functional assays and some were found to display the profile of a dissociated glucocorticoid. The SAR of the 6,5-bicyclic series differed markedly from the previously reported 6,6-series. Molecular modeling studies were employed to understand the conformational differences between the two series of compounds, which may explain their divergent activity. Two compounds were profiled in vivo and shown to reduce inflammation in a mouse model. An active metabolite is suspected in one case.

Di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) is commonly employed as a plasticizer. We have found that exposure of human embryonic kidney cell line 293 (HEK-293) to DEHP resulted in a crucial dose-dependent increase of DNA strand breaks in a comet assay. To elucidate the role of glutathione (GSH) in the DNA damage, the cells were pretreated with buthionine-(S,R)-sulfoximine (BSO) and pretreated with N-acetylcysteine (NAC), a GSH precursor. Here we show that depletion of GSH in HEK-293 cells with BSO dramatically increased the susceptibility of HEK-293 cells to DEHP-induced DNA damage. Furthermore, when the intracellular GSH content was elevated by NAC, the DNA damage induced by DEHP was almost completely abolished. In addition, DEHP had effect on lysosomal or mitochondrial damage at high dose level. These results indicate that DEHP exerts genotoxic effects in HEK-293 cells, probably through DNA damage induced by oxidative stress; GSH is responsible for cellular defense against DEHP-induced DNA damage; lysosome and mitochondria may be the vital targets in DEHP-induced DNA damage.

Sterigmatocystin (STC) is a carcinogenic and mutagenic mycotoxin produced by fungi of many Aspergillus species. As a precursor of the aflatoxins, STC is a risk factor of liver cancer. The objective of this study is to investigate STC-induced DNA damage and underlying mechanisms. The single cell gel electrophoresis (SCGE) assay was applied to assess DNA damage induced by STC. To clarify the underlying mechanisms, we measured the intracellular generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) using dichlorofluorescein diacetate as a fluorochrome. The level of oxidative DNA damage was evaluated by immunocytochemical analysis of 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) and the acridine orange (AO) was used to measure the changes of lysosomal membrane stability. A significant dose-dependent increase of DNA strand breaks was found after treatment with STC (3 and 6 μM) respectively for 1 h. Increases in ROS level and the expression of 8-OHdG were also observed. A statistically significant increase in AO fluorescence intensity was observed in cells treated with STC (1.5, 3 and 6 μM) for 1 h. The DNA strand breaks induced by STC were almost prevented in cells pretreated with NH(4)Cl (10 mM) and NAC (10 mM) for 1 h. Our results thus indicated that STC exerts genotoxic effects on HepG2 cells, most likely through oxidative stress and lysosomal leakage.

Experimental data of densities and viscosities of propane-1,2,3-triol + ethane-1,2-diol binary mixtures were measured over the entire mole fraction range from (298.15 to 338.15) K at atmospheric pressure. Excess molar volumes as a function of mole fraction average have been obtained and fitted to the Redlich−Kister equation. Estimated coefficients of the Redlich−Kister equation and standard error calculated from the Redlich−Kister equation to the experimental data were also presented.

Experimental data of densities and viscosities of 1-propyl-2,3-dimethylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate ([PDMIM][BF4]) + H2O binary mixtures were measured over the entire mole fraction range from (298.15 to 343.15) K at atmospheric pressure. Excess molar volumes and viscosity deviations as a function of mole fraction average have been obtained and fitted to the Redlich−Kister equation. Estimated coefficients of the Redlich−Kister equation and standard error calculated from the Redlich−Kister equation to the experimental data were also presented.

We have refined the position of asebia locus by genotyping DNA from more than 600 backcross mice derived from asebia mouse and a genetically unrelated strain. One of the candidate genes in the locus is stearoyl-CoA desaturase (SCD). Previously two members of this gene family, namely SCD1 and SCD2, have been described. We have found, for the first time, that these SCD genes are expressed in skin. Moreover, we have identified a third species of SCD in the mouse skin. The most prominent SCD species is SCD1 in the mouse skin. The implications of this gene family to skin are discussed.

A novel series of selective ligands for the human glucocorticoid receptor is described. Structure–activity studies focused on variation of B-ring size, ketal ring size, and ketal substitution. These analogs were found to be potent and selective ligands for GR and have partial agonist profiles in functional assays for transactivation (TAT, GS) and transrepression (IL-6). Of these compounds, 27, 28, and 35 were evaluated further in a mouse LPS-induced TNF-α secretion model. Compound 28 had an ED50 of 14.1 mg/kg compared with 0.5 mg/kg for prednisolone in the same assay.

A new industrial production method of 2, 3-butanediol is discussed in this paper. C2-4 bio-polyol is prepared by combining biological fermentation and chemical cleavage, with corn starch as raw material. In this industrial method, high purity 2,3-butanediol can be obtained after distillation and purification. Low production cost of this method provides an effective support for 2, 3-butanediol large-scaled application.

To enrich the variety of zinc oxide, a facile trisodium citrate assisted alkaline precipitation route was developed to prepare ZnO hollow spheres with partial open gaps comprised of a mass of nanoparticles. The composition, morphology and structure of the product were characterized by X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The results showed that the final products were pure hexagonal phase (zincite), and the ZnO shell was composed of a polycrystalline aggregation of nanoparticles. Trisodium citrate played a crucial role as a capping agent in the formation of the ZnO hollow spheres. The ZnO with hollow morphology exhibited excellent gas response. This result indicated that the annealed ZnO with hollow sphere architecture is a promising candidate for gas sensing applications.