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Regional nerve blocks (NBs) mitigate the occurrence of postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) and postoperative delirium (POD) in adult patients undergoing thoracic surgery. This study aimed to determine the exact effect of NBs on POCD and POD. Electronic databases, including PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, Scopus, and Web of Science, were searched for studies. The primary outcome was the incidence of POD or POCD. The secondary outcome was pain scores assessed 24 and 48 h postoperatively. We calculated the log odds ratio (LOR) and standardized mean difference (SMD) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). The LOR was converted to an odds ratio (OR). In the analysis of 1010 patients from seven randomized controlled trials, POD and POCD rates were 14.1% and 16.7%, respectively, in the NB group, and higher, at 27.3% and 35.2%, in the control group. NBs reduced the incidence of POD (OR, 0.44; 95%CI 0.30 to 0.64; p < 0.001; I2 = 0.00%) and POCD (OR, 0.43; 95%CI 0.24 to 0.76; p < 0.001; I2 = 0.00%). NBs reduced pain scores at 24 h (SMD, −2.60; 95%CI −3.90 to −1.30, p < 0.001; I2 = 97.68%) and 48 h (SMD, −1.80; 95%CI −3.18 to −0.41, p = 0.01; I2 = 98.14%) postoperatively. NBs mitigated the occurrence of POD and POCD in adult patients after thoracic surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Emergence agitation or delirium can occur in pediatric patients after anesthesia. Dexmedetomidine is known to reduce the impairment of postoperative cognitive function. Aims: This study aimed to identify the role of intranasal administration of dexmedetomidine in lowering the development of emergence agitation or emergence delirium in pediatric patients after general anesthesia. Methods: Electronic databases, including PubMed, EMBASE, CENTRAL, Scopus, and Web of Science, were searched to identify studies. The primary outcome was the proportion of patients who underwent emergence agitation or emergence delirium after the surgery. Secondary outcomes included emergence time and incidence of postoperative nausea and/or vomiting. We estimated the odds ratio and mean difference with 95% confidence intervals for the determination of effect size using a random‐effects model. Results: In total, 2103 pediatric patients from 20 randomized controlled trials were included in the final analysis. The incidence of emergence agitation or emergence delirium was 13.6% in the dexmedetomidine group and 33.2% in the control group. The pooled effect size revealed that intranasal dexmedetomidine administration significantly reduced the incidence of postoperative emergence agitation or emergence delirium in pediatric patients undergoing surgery under general anesthesia (odds ratio 0.25, 95% confidence interval 0.18–0.34; p =.0000; I2 = 37.74%). Additionally, significant difference was observed in emergence time between the two groups (mean difference 2.42, 95% confidence interval 0.37–4.46; p =.021; I2 = 98.40%). Children in the dexmedetomidine group had a significantly lower incidence of postoperative nausea and/or vomiting than those in the control group (odds ratio 0.39, 95% confidence interval 0.24–0.64; p =.0002; I2 = 0.00%). Conclusions: Intranasal dexmedetomidine reduced the incidence of emergence agitation or emergence delirium in pediatric patients after general anesthesia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This meta-analysis aimed to determine whether peripheral nerve blocks (PNB) reduce postoperative delirium (POD) in elderly patients undergoing hip surgery. This study was registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO; CRD42022328320). The PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library databases were searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on 26 April 2022. A total of 19 RCTs with 1977 participants were included. Perioperative PNB lowered the POD incidence on the third postoperative day (OR: 0.59, 95% CI [0.40 to 0.87], p = 0.007, I2 = 35%), in patients without underlying cognitive impairment (OR: 0.47, 95% CI [0.30 to 0.74], p = 0.001, I2 = 30%), and when a fascia iliaca compartment block (OR: 0.58, 95% CI [0.37 to 0.91], p = 0.02, I2 = 0%) or a femoral nerve block (OR: 0.33, 95% CI [0.11 to 0.99], p = 0.05, I2 = 66%) were performed. The pain score was also reduced (SMD: −0.83, 95% CI [−1.36 to −0.30], p = 0.002, I2 = 95%) after PNB. Perioperative PNB can lower the POD incidence and pain scores up to the third postoperative day. However, considering the wide variety of PNBs performed, more trials are needed to identify the effects of each PNB on POD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The CDC73/HRPT2 gene, a defect which causes hyperparathyroidism–jaw tumor (HPT-JT) syndrome, encodes CDC73/parafibromin. We aimed to investigate whether CDC73 would be a target for ubiquitin–proteasome degradation. We cloned full-length cDNAs encoding a family of 58 ubiquitin-specific deubiquitinating enzymes (DUBs), also known as ubiquitin-specific proteases (USPs). Use of the yeast two-hybrid system then enabled us to identify USP37 as interacting with CDC73. The biochemical interaction between the USP37 and CDC73 and their reciprocal binding domains were studied. Co-localization of CDC73 and USP37 was observed in cells. CDC73 was found to be polyubiquitinated, and polyubiquitination of CDC73 was prominent in mutants. CDC73 was deubiquitinated via K48-specific ubiquitin chains by USP37, but not by the catalytically inactive USP37C350S mutant. Observation of the binding between deletion mutants of CDC73 and USP37 revealed that the β-catenin binding site of CDC73 and the ubiquitin-interacting motifs 2 and 3 (UIM2 and 3) of USP37 were responsible for the interaction between the two proteins. Moreover, these two enzymes co-existed within the nucleus of COS7 cells. We conclude that USP37 is a DUB for CDC73 and that the two proteins interact through specific domains, suggesting that USP37 is responsible for the stability of CDC73 in HPT-JT syndrome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As ecosystems face disruption of community dynamics and habitat loss, the idea of determining ahead of time which species can become extinct is an important subject in conservation biology. A species' vulnerability to extinction is dependent upon both intrinsic (life-history strategies, genetics) and extrinsic factors (environment, anthropogenic threats). Studies linking intrinsic traits to extinction risk have shown variable results, and to our knowledge, there has not been a systematic analysis looking at how demographic patterns in stage-specific survival and reproductive rates correlate to extinction risk. We used matrix projection models from the COMPADRE and COMADRE matrix databases and IUCN Red List status as our proxy of extinction risk to investigate if some demographic patterns are more vulnerable to extinction than others. We obtained data on demographic rates, phylogeny, and IUCN status for 159 species of herbaceous plants, trees, mammals, and birds. We calculated 14 demographic metrics related to different aspects of life history and elasticity values and analyzed whether they differ based on IUCN categories using conditional random forest analysis and phylogenetic generalized least square regressions. We mapped all species within the database, both with IUCN assessment and without, and overlaid them with biodiversity hotspots to investigate if there is bias within the assessed species and how many of the non-assessed species could use the demographic information recorded in COMPADRE and COMADRE for future IUCN assessments. We found that herbaceous perennials are more vulnerable when they mature early and have high juvenile survival rates; birds are more vulnerable with high progressive growth and reproduction; mammals are more vulnerable when they have longer generation times. These patterns may be used to assess relative vulnerability across species when lacking abundance or trend data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Identifying whether the demand for medical services is catered to is an important issue. Given that depression is a major contributor to the overall global burden of disease, it could affect the use of healthcare. This study aims to examine the association between the severity of new-onset depression and unmet healthcare needs among South Korean adults. Methods: Data from 15,588 participants, derived from the 2014, 2016, and 2018 Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, were examined. Only individuals who were not diagnosed with depression was included to exclude those who visited hospitals to treat depression or were experiencing unmet healthcare needs due to depression. Depression was measured using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 and unmet healthcare needs acted as the dependent variable. A multiple/multinomial logistic regression analysis was built to analyze the association between the variables. Results: Individuals with severe depression had a higher risk of having unmet healthcare needs compared to those without (men: adjusted OR = 2.05, 95% CI = 1.40–3.00; women: adjusted OR = 2.20, 95% CI = 1.72–2.82). White-collar men with severe depression also had a higher risk of having unmet healthcare needs (adjusted OR = 9.72, 95% CI = 4.73–20.00). Individuals with severe depression had a higher risk of having unmet healthcare needs due to economic hardship than those without depression (men: adjusted OR = 3.01, 95% CI = 1.76–5.14, women: adjusted OR = 2.93, 95% CI = 1.96–4.38). Conclusions: This study identified a significant relationship between the severity of new-onset depression and the risk of having unmet healthcare needs among South Korean adults. Our study suggests that having severe depression contributed to a higher risk of unmet healthcare needs. Proper care to manage depression can be promoted through future intervention programs that alleviate the risk of having unmet healthcare needs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Evaluating the stability of semiconductor photocatalysts is critical in the development of efficient catalysts. The morphological and microstructural behaviors of nanorod-shaped Bi2S3 semiconductors in aqueous solution were studied using a liquid cell transmission electron microscopy (TEM) technique. The rapid decomposition of Bi2S3 in water was observed under electron beam irradiation during TEM. Rounded bright spots due to a reduction in thickness were observed on the Bi2S3 nanorods at the initial stage of the decomposition, and rounded dark particles appeared outside of the nanorods in the solution, continuing the decomposition. This was confirmed by analyzing the atomic structure of the newly formed small particles, which consisted of an orthorhombic Bi2S3 phase. The stability-related decomposition of the Bi2S3 nanorods was demonstrated by considering the reduction and oxidation potentials of Bi2S3 in an aqueous solution. The effect of water radiolysis by the incident electron during TEM observations on the decomposition process was also determined by considering the time-dependent concentration behavior of the chemical species. Our study therefore reflects a novel route to evaluate the stabilities of semiconductor photocatalysts, which could ultimately solve a range of energy and environmental pollution problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Hydrangenol (HG) was isolated from the leaves of Hydrangea serrata. • HG restored the population of immune cells in the LPS-induced septic mouse model. • HG suppressed pro-inflammatory mediators in the intestinal tissue of septic mice. • HG improved damaged intestinal tight junction and gut dysbiosis in the septic mice. • HG has protective effects in the LPS-induced septic mouse model. Hydrangenol, a dihydroisocoumarin, isolated from the leaves of Hydrangea serrata , possesses anti-inflammatory, anti-obesity, and anti-photoaging activities. In this study, we investigated the protective effects of hydrangenol (HG) against lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced endotoxemia and elucidated the underlying molecular mechanisms of action in C57BL/6 mice. Oral administration of HG (20 or 40 mg/kg) significantly restored the survival rate and population of macrophages, T helper cells (CD3+/CD4+), and Th17 cells (CD3+/CD4+/CCR6+) in the spleens of mice with LPS-induced endotoxemia. HG suppressed the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin (IL)-6, IL-1β, and Interferon (IFN)-γ and the mRNA and protein expressions of inducible NO synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) in the intestine and lung of LPS-treated mice. Molecular data showed that HG ameliorated the activation of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) p65, signal transducers and activators of transcription 3 (STAT3), and c-Fos and c-Jun (AP-1 subunits) via the myeloid differentiation primary response 88 (MyD88) dependent toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) signaling pathway in the LPS-treated mouse intestines. HG treatment caused the recovery of LPS-induced impaired tight junction (occludin and claudin-2) protein and mRNA expressions. Furthermore, HG improved LPS-induced gut dysbiosis in mice. Taken together, our results suggest that HG protects against LPS-induced endotoxemia by restoring immune cells and the capacity of the intestinal barrier, reducing intestinal inflammation, and improving the composition of the gut microbiota. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Porphyra-334 is a kind of mycosporine-like amino acid absorbing ultraviolet-A. Here, we characterized porphyra-334 as a potential antiaging agent. An in vitro assay revealed that porphyra-334 dramatically promoted collagen synthesis in fibroblast cells. The effect of porphyra-334 on cell proliferation was dependent on the cell type, and the increase of cell viability by porphyra-334 was the highest in keratinocyte cells among the three tested cell types. An in vivo clinical test with 22 participants demonstrated the possible role of porphyra-334 in the improvement of periorbital wrinkles. RNA-sequencing using human follicle dermal papilla (HFDP) cells upon porphyra-334 treatment identified the upregulation of metallothionein- (MT-) associated genes, confirming the antioxidant role of porphyra-334 with MT. Moreover, the expression of genes involved in nuclear chromosome segregation and the encoding of components of kinetochores was upregulated by porphyra-334 treatment. Furthermore, we found that several genes associated with the hair follicle cycle, the hair follicle structure, the epidermal structure, and stem cells were upregulated by porphyra-334 treatment, suggesting the potential role of porphyra-334 in hair follicle growth and maintenance. In summary, we provided several new pieces of evidence of porphyra-334 as a potential antiaging cosmetic agent and elucidated the expression network in HFDP cells upon porphyra-334. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microwave‐powered cold plasma (CP) treatment was evaluated as a means to increase the antioxidant activity, water solubility, and dispersion stability of prickly pear cactus fruit (Opuntia ficus‐indica (L.) Mill.) extract. The extract (2 g) was treated at various CP generation powers and treatment times at 25 °C to 28 °C. The antioxidant activity of the prickly pear cactus fruit extract increased by 1.8% and 1.7% after CP treatment at 750 W for 40 min and 856 W for 36 min, respectively. Both the water solubility and dispersion stability (delta backscattering) of the extract increased by 2.4% and 0.1%, respectively, following CP treatment at 644 W for 36 min. These results suggest the potential of CP treatment to increase the applicability of the prickly pear cactus fruit extract and possibly other insoluble natural antioxidant compounds in foods by improving their antioxidant activities and solubility in water. Practical Application: Prickly pear cactus fruit is a functional food with a high antioxidant concentration. This study demonstrated that cold plasma treatment improved the water solubility and dispersion stability of prickly pear cactus fruit extract without altering or improving its antioxidant activity. The obtained results suggested the potential of applying cold plasma technology to improve the applicability of the extract, which is difficult to solubilize in food systems, to various processed foods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cord blood (CB) has been used as an alternative source for unrelated allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. To determine which assay was useful for predicting the successful outcome of CB transplantation, CBs were grouped according to the temperature (4 °C, 24 °C, and 37 °C) and time (24, 48, and 72 h) after collection. The viability, early apoptosis, and colony forming units (CFUs) were ascertained for the total nucleated cells (TNCs) and CD34+ cells; in addition, the engraftment of infused CD34+ cells in NSG mice was determined. The viability of the TNCs and CD34+ cells and total CFUs were significantly decreased whereas the early apoptosis was significantly increased in the 72 h group at 37 °C compared to that of the 24 h group at 24 °C. The viability and early apoptosis of the TNCs correlated with those of CD34+ cells. In addition, the viability and early apoptosis correlated with the number of granulocyte/monocyte progenitor CFUs. In transplanted NSG mice, the frequency of human CD45+ cells decreased in the 72 h group at 24 °C compared to that of the 24 h group at 24 °C and was negatively correlated with early apoptosis of TNCs and CD34+ cells. This study demonstrated that the early apoptosis of TNCs and CD34+ cells constitutes a useful marker for predicting the engraftment of HSCs and may provide helpful data for standard assessment regarding CB quality by analyzing the correlation between in vitro and in vivo assays using NSG mice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Brominated disinfection byproducts (Br-DBPs) may be generated in high concentrations during the chlorinated washing of brined kimchi cabbage (BKC) in kimchi manufacturing. However, the generation of these DBPs is not sufficiently understood. Therefore, in this study, we investigated the formation and speciation of the DBPs trihalomethanes (THMs) and haloacetic acids (HAAs) during the chlorinated washing process. The average bromide content in 22 salt products sourced from various regions of Korea was 1600 ± 468 mg/kg. Increasing bromide content shifted the speciation of DBPs from chlorinated to mixed bromochloro to brominated species, which would be more harmful than their chlorinated analogs. DBP formation during the washing of BKC at average bromide levels changed based on the brine salinity, salting temperature, and disinfectant type. Based on our findings, we recommend that low salinity and low temperature should be maintained during the salting of KC and that NaOCl should be used as the disinfectant rather than slightly acidic electrolyzed water during the chlorinated washing of KC to alleviate the formation of Br-DBPs. Moreover, we recommend the use of salts with low bromide levels for the salting of KC and the addition of a rinse step after chlorinated washing. [Display omitted] • Evaluation of DBP formation and speciation during kimchi manufacturing. • Bromide content in 22 salt products in Korea was 726–2340 mg/kg. • Brine salinity, salting temperature, and disinfectant type affect DBP formation. • NaOCl is a better disinfectant than SAEW for chlorinated washing. • Salts with low bromide levels are recommended based on study results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Finding N -acyl amino acid synthase (NAS) from soil metagenome clones. • Heterologous expression of the nasYPL gene conferred antibacterial activities. • nasYPL has antibacterial fractions identified N -acyl tyrosine, N -acyl phenylalanine, and N -acyl leucine. • Expression of nasYPL by host-specific manner may provide antibacterial characteristics. Abstract In an effort to isolate novel natural antibiotics, we searched for antibacterial long-chain N- acyl amino acid synthase (NAS) genes from 70,000 soil metagenome clones by Bacillus subtilis -overlaying screening. In an antibacterial cosmid clone, YS92B, a single gene nasYPL was responsible for the production of the Nas. nasYPL was 903 bp long, and the deduced amino acid sequence showed the highest 71% identity with a hypothetical protein from Massilia niastensis. Phylogenetic analysis demonstrated that NasYPL belongs to Group 1 Nas. Heterologous expression of the same nasYPL gene in Escherichia coli and two Pseudomonas strains (P. putida and P. koreensis) conferred antibacterial activities against Listeria monocytogenes , Staphylococcus epidermidis , and Bacillus subtilis. Mass spectral analysis of the antibacterial fractions identified 7 peaks corresponding to long-chain N- acyl tyrosine, 5 peaks to N -acyl phenylalanine, and 3 peaks to N -acyl leucine (or isoleucine) derivatives linked with 7 fatty acids, indicating enzymatic products derived by NasYPL. Therefore, NasYPL expression by host-specific manner may provide applicable antibacterial characteristics to biotechnologically important Pseudomonas strains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Effects of packaging parameters on the inactivation of Salmonella contaminating mixed vegetables in plastic packages using atmospheric dielectric barrier discharge cold plasma treatment (ADCPT) were investigated. The inactivation rate of indigenous aerobes of grape tomatoes in low density polyethylene packaging (1.2 log CFU/tomato) was higher than that in polyethylene terephthalate packaging (0.8 log CFU/tomato). Increasing oxygen concentration in the package headspace by 85% did not affect the Salmonella reduction rate. However, an increase in the volume ratio of headspace to sample from 30:1 to 43:1, a change from indirect treatment to direct treatment, and the use of secondary packaging led to an increase in the Salmonella reduction rates by 1.2, 2.3, and 0.7 log CFU/tomato, respectively. The water vapor permeability of the tested packages increased after ADCPT by 16.7–41.7%, while tensile properties, transparency, glass transition temperature, and surface morphology did not change. Differences in inactivation effects according to package shape were eliminated by shaking during treatment. The results demonstrated the packaging parameter-dependent efficacy of in-package ADCPT and effective ADCPT for mixed vegetable decontamination with minimal package property modification. Highlights • Atmospheric cold plasma (ACP) decontaminates mixed vegetables in plastic containers. • Effective container parameters include the kinds of plastics and package shape. • Effective treatment parameters are container shaking and sample–electrode distance. • Other key parameters are secondary packaging and headspace-sample volume ratio. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • A colorimetric sensor array was developed to classify different coffees. • The unique color profile for each coffee sample was obtained. • The samples were successfully distinguished according to their categories. • We demonstrated that the sensor array was useful for rapid discrimination of different coffees. Abstract A method based on colorimetric sensor array (CSA) was used to classify different coffees. The array was fabricated by printing twelve sensing materials selective to key coffee aroma odorants on a hydrophobic membrane. The unique color profile for each coffee sample was obtained, resulting in facile differentiation by the naked eye without any statistical analysis. The color responses of CSA were evaluated by principal component analysis and hierarchical cluster analysis to identify classification patterns of ground roasted coffee, espresso coffee, and aero-press coffee samples, and the samples were successfully distinguished according to their categories such as variety and roast degree of coffee beans or brewing procedure. The results of hierarchical cluster analysis and linear discriminant analysis using the CSA data obtained from sixty coffee samples demonstrate that the CSA is a potentially promising methodology for rapid discrimination of different coffees. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines college students’ global competence acquisition at a US and Korean university and assesses the effect of cross- and inter-cultural online projects implemented simultaneously at both universities. The data were collected through a pre- and post-survey of the participating students. The findings were as follows: (1) overall, the projects significantly increased students’ intercultural communication skills and knowledge of the other country, (2) among three antecedents, the global mass media had mixed effects on the global competence and the effect of the projects, (3) mass migration was identified as a significant influence on students’ global competence and the effect of the projects, and (4) language barriers, technology, and time differences were found to be the main challenges of the project. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gulfweed‐based edible materials were developed in forms of food film and coating. Gulfweed suspension was subjected to high‐pressure homogenization (HPH) at 103, 138, and 193 MPa with 1, 2, and 3 passes, and mixed with 14, 30, 50, and 70% (w/w gulfweed) glycerol and 1% (w/w gulfweed) polysorbate 20 to produce a film‐forming suspension. The particle size of the suspension decreased with increasing pressure from 103 to 193 MPa and pass number from 1 to 3. The HPH‐treated gulfweed suspension behaved like a pseudo‐plastic non‐Newtonian fluid. High pressure and pass number generally decreased the suspension viscosity. Uniformity and compactness of the films increased with increasing pressure. The optimal conditions for forming a film with high stretchability, low water vapor permeability, low and water solubility, as well as for preparing bright‐colored coated smoked salmon, were found to be 193 MPa, three passes of HPH, and a glycerol concentration of 70%. Coating smoked salmon with gulfweed suspension enhanced the redness without altering its texture and volatile properties. The method reported in this study may be useful for seaweed‐based edible film production, increasing their potential application to various food products like red meats. Practical Application: Seaweeds have high nutritional and functional values, but they are not commonly used as food materials owing to their appearance and size. Therefore, it is important to develop methods to utilize seaweeds by overcoming appearance and size limitations. A self‐standing film/coating using gulfweed was developed in this study, making use of commercially available high‐pressure homogenization technology. The method developed herein might enable increased applications of gulfweed and possibly other seaweeds to food products such as films, rolls, or coatings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hermetia illucens is a voracious insect scavenger, decomposing food waste efficiently. To survey novel hydrolytic enzymes, we constructed a fosmid metagenome library using unculturable intestinal microorganisms from H. illucens in our previous study (Lee et al., 2014). Functional screening of the library on carboxymethyl cellulose plates identified a fosmid clone the product of which displayed hydrolytic activity. Sequence analysis of the fosmid revealed a novel α-galactosidase gene, Agas2 . The Agas2 gene is composed of 2,007 base pairs encoding 668 amino acids with a deduced 25 amino acid N -terminal signal peptide sequence. The conceptual translation and domain analysis of Agas2 showed the highest sequence identity (84%) with the putative α-galactosidase of Dysgonomonas sp. HGC4, exhibiting well-conserved domain homology with glycosyl hydrolase family 97. Phylogenetic analysis indicated that Agas2 may be a currently uncharacterized α-galactosidase. The recombinant protein, rAgas2, was successfully expressed in E. coli . rAgas2 showed the highest activity at 40 °C and pH 7.0. It displayed great pH stability within a pH range of 5–11 for 15 h at 4 °C. rAgas2 was highly stable under stringent conditions, including polar organic solvents, non-ionic detergents, salt, and proteases. rAgas2 hydrolyzed α- d -galactose substrates, showing the maximum enzymatic activity toward p -nitrophenyl α- d -galactopyranoside (specific activity 128.37 U/mg). However, rAgas2 did not hydrolyze substrates linked with β-glucose moieties. Overall, Agas2 may be an attractive candidate for the degradation of α-galactose family oligosaccharides in high-salt, protease-rich and high-organic-solvent processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We developed a colorimetric sensor array (CSA) that is sensitive to highly contributory volatile compounds of coffee aroma for discrimination of coffee samples roasted to different roast degrees. Strecker aldehydes and α-diketones were significantly higher for the medium roast than the other roast degrees. The development of several sulfur compounds was pronounced in the medium-dark and dark roasts, except for dimethyl sulfide, which was only detected in the light roast. The CSA method coupled with principal component analysis or hierarchical cluster analysis successfully distinguished the roasted coffee samples according to roast degree. Partial least squares regression results showed that the CSA responses were well-correlated with the concentrations of volatile compounds in the coefficient of determination ( r p 2 ) range of 0.686–0.955. These results demonstrate that the CSA rapidly responded to coffee aroma compounds and was capable of predicting coffee aroma development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sub-10 nm-sized LiYF 4 :Yb,Tm/Er upconversion nanophosphors (UCNPs) and multicolor-emitting LiYF 4 :Yb,Tm,Er/LiGdF 4 core/shell (C/S) UCNPs were facilely synthesized by using rare earth-oleate (RE(oleate) 3 ) precursors. The size of LiYF 4 :Yb,Tm and LiYF 4 :Yb,Er UCNPs with single tetragonal phase was controlled in the range of 3.2–9.6 nm and 3.0–9.0 nm, respectivley, by varying reaction temperature from 230 to 320 °C under the use of RE(oleate) 3 precursors. The sub-10 nm-sized LiYF 4 :Yb(25%),Tm(0.5%)/LiGdF 4 (9.7 nm) and LiYF 4 :Yb(18%),Er(2%)/LiGdF 4 (9.5 nm) C/S UCNPs were successfully synthesized from ultrasmall LiYF 4 -based UCNP cores smaller than 5 nm in size. The blue- and green-emitting sub-10 nm-sized LiYF 4 :Yb,Tm/LiGdF 4 and LiYF 4 :Yb,Er/LiGdF 4 C/S UCNPs exhibited 566 and 48,245 times higher upconversion luminescence intensities than their core counterparts, respectivley, under excitation with 980 nm near infrared light. In addition, multicolor tunable sub-10 nm-sized LiYF 4 :Yb,Tm,Er/LiGdF 4 C/S UCNPs were synthesized and they emitted bright blue, sky blue, aquamarine, and green light by varying dopant composition (Tm and Er) and concentration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Base-catalyzed domino reaction between N -methylisatin and methyl propiolate afforded four diastereomeric dispiro-1,3-dioxolane bisoxindoles. The reaction mechanism involved sequential 1,2-addition of acetylide anion to the carbonyl group of isatin, 1,2-addition of the resulting oxyanion to a second molecule of isatin, and the final 5- exo - dig cyclization process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Prion propagation is mediated by the structural alteration of normal prion protein (PrPC) to generate pathogenic prion protein (PrPSc). To date, compounds for the inhibition of prion propagation have mainly been screened using PrPSc-infected cells. Real time–quaking-induced conversion (RT-QuIC) is one alternative screening method. In this study, we assessed the propagation inhibition effects of known anti-prion compounds using RT-QuIC and compared the results with those from a PrPSc-infected cell assay. Compounds were applied to RT-QuIC reactions at 0 h or 22 h after prion propagation to determine whether they inhibited propagation or reduced amplified aggregates. RT-QuIC reactions in presence of acridine, dextran sulfate sodium (DSS), and tannic acid inhibited seeded aggregation with sporadic Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease at 0 h. After treatment at 22 h, amplified fluorescence was decreased in wells treated with either acridine or tannic acid. Compound activities were verified by western blot of RT-QuIC products and in a dye-independent conversion assay, the Multimer Detection System. Protease K-resistant PrPSc fragments (PrPres) were reduced by DSS and tannic acid in the PrPSc-infected cell assay. Importantly, these inhibitory effects were similar despite different treatment times (0 h versus 3 days). Consequentially, RT-QuIC enabled the more specific classification of compounds according to action (i.e., inhibition of prion propagation versus reduction of amplified aggregates). RT-QuIC addresses the limitations of cell-based screening methods and can be used to further aid our understanding of the mechanisms of action of anti-prion compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Various dihydrofuranyl spirooxindoles have been synthesized via montmorillonite K-10-catalyzed propargylation of 1,3-dicarbonyl compounds with isatin-derived propargylic alcohols and subsequent base-mediated 5- exo-dig cyclization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article reports on the spirooxindoles which exist in natural substances and pharmaceutical compounds. Discussed is the synthesis of 2-aminothiophene derivative from the Morita-Baylis-Hillman (MBH) carbonate of benzaldehyde. Also discussed is the reaction of isothiocyanates in the presence of triphenylphosphine (PPh3).

The aim of this study was to develop a simple and rapid method based on colorimetric sensor array (CSA) for evaluation of warmed-over flavour (WOF) in cooked chicken. All samples were classified according to storage time by CSA coupled with principle component analysis (PCA) or hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA). The CSA data were used to establish prediction models with thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), pentanal, hexanal, or heptanal associated with WOF by partial least square regression (PLSR). For the TBARS model, the coefficient of determination ( r p 2 ) was 0.9997 in the prediction range of 0.28–0.69 mg/kg. In each of the models for pentanal, hexanal, and heptanal, all r p 2 were higher than 0.960 in the range of 0.58–2.10 mg/kg, 5.50–11.69 mg/kg, and 0.09–0.16 mg/kg, respectively. These results demonstrate that the CSA was able to predict WOF development and to distinguish between each storage time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a study on the synthesis of benzo[a]carbazoles derivatives from 2-arylindoles through sequential propargylation, propargyl-allenyl isomerization, and electrocyclization. Topics include the different methods on the synthesis of benzo[a]carbazoles and related derivatives, the reaction of β -(2-phenylindolyl) nitroalkane 3a- mediated cyclization and the typical reaction of various benzo[a]carbazoles.

The article discusses a study of an oxidative nucleophilic substitution of hydrogen (ONSH) reaction. The research analyzed an ONSH reaction of substrate 1 with indole (2a) in the presence of Cs2CO3 in dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) under O2 balloon atmosphere. The study observed a selective nucleophilic aromatic tele-substitution reaction in the reaction of 9-nitroanthracene with 2-naphthols, 1,3-cyclohexanediones, and phloroglucinol.

In this study, azidoformate (AF) is investigated as a reactive functional group to mediate noncatalytic C–H insertion reactions to interconnect polypropylene (PP) chains to generate long-chain branches (LCBs). 4,4′-Isopropylidenediphenyl azidoformate (DAF) with two terminal AF groups is synthesized, which is first mixed with propylene/α-olefin copolymer at 100 °C. Then, the prepared mixture with a predetermined amount of DAF is reactively melt mixed with PP at 165 °C. This unique two-step preparation strategy affords PP with prominent rheological properties of LCBs, e.g., shear thinning and strain hardening. The rheological characteristics are easily controlled by adjusting the amount of DAF to afford an effective tool to prepare high-melt-strength PPs. The strength of this strategy is distinct, including a simple/typical melt processing procedure, no degradation of PP chains, and no purification/solvent recycling steps. The C–H insertion capability of azidoformate groups suggests an expandability of this methodology as a platform technology to prepare modified polymers. • Long-chain branched polypropylene is prepared via reactive melt mixing procedures. • Noncatalytic C–H insertion capability of azidoformate is utilized. • Propylene/α-olefin copolymer is employed as a dispersant of di (azidoformate). • The amount of branches is controlled by adjusting the amount of di (azidoformate). • Elastic and strain hardening melt behaviors of the resulting polymer are observed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of bis-lactam-based molecules were synthesized and applied in organic field-effect transistors (OFETs) and organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs). Among the derivatives, 1,5-dioctyl-3,7-bis(9-phenyl-9 H -carbazol-2-yl)-1,5-naphthyridine-2,6-dione (NTD-pCz) exhibited the highest maximum hole mobility of 0.11 cm2 V−1 s−1, with on–off current ratios (I on / I off) of >105 in OFETs, which was attributed to NTD-pCz exhibiting the lowest reorganization energy, extended π-conjugation with a relatively small dihedral angle between the NTD core and the side group, and the strongest intermolecular interaction in the thin-film state. In addition, NTD-pCz exhibited the highest maximum external quantum efficiency of 3.56%, with a current efficiency of 9.95 cd A−1, when incorporated into nondoped OLEDs, which is ascribed to its excellent solid-state photoluminescence quantum yield of 83%. These results reveal the potential of NTD-based molecules for use in efficient next-generation multifunctional optoelectronic devices. • New 1,5-naphthyridine-2,6-dione (NTD) derivatives of bis-lactam core were synthesized. • The luminescence and charge transport properties were investigated in devices. • NTD-pCz exhibited the highest EL efficiency and hole mobility in OLEDs and OFETs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on the research "One-Pot Synthesis of Nitronaphthalenes from Morita-Baylis-Hillman Acetates and Primary Nitroalkanes via Sequential-Intramolecular Oxidative Nucleophilic Substitution of Hydrogen-E2 Elimination." Topics discussed include synthesis of naphthalenes by using sodium nitrite-mediated intramolecular Friedel-Crafts (IMFC) cyclization; reaction between MBH acetate of m-nitrobenzaldehyde and nitroethane; and E2 elimination of nitrous acid.

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are chemicals formed when muscle meat is cooked using high-temperature methods, such as grilling directly over an open flame. PAHs have been found to be mutagenic-that is, they cause changes in DNA that may increase the risk of cancer. We investigated the effects of grilling procedures on the level of 4 PAHs; benzo[a]anthracene (B[a]A), chrysene (Chr), benzo[b]fluoranthene (B[b]F), and benzo[a]pyrene (B[a]P). PAHs were extracted and determined by gas chromatography with mass detection (GC–MS). With regard to barbecuing successive meat samples with the same batch of burning charcoal, it was observed that stable combustion contribute to reduction of PAHs. Significant reductions in the sum of the four PAHs were observed through treatments which removed meat drippings and smoke with alternative grilling apparatus. The sums of 4 PAHs were reduced 48–89% with dripping removed and 41–74% with the smoke removal treatment in grilled pork and beef meats than conventional grilling. We investigated the components of meats drippings. The major constituent of meat dripping was fat. The most important factor contributing to the production of PAHs in grilling was smoke resulting from incomplete combustion of fat dripped onto the fire. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electrospray technique was used to prepare alginate beads with controllable size from about 200 μm to 1.3 mm by adjusting the working voltage. The encapsulation ability of alginate beads for gallic acid, a model hydrophilic phenolic compound, was investigated. Loading amount of gallic acid varied from 7 g/100 g–12 g/100 g among alginate beads samples. Fourier-transform infrared and differential scanning calorimetry result confirmed the inclusion of gallic acid. Moreover, no autoxidation of gallic acid was observed in the formulated alginate beads. Release profile result indicated that in simulated intestinal fluid the release was faster than that in gastric fluid. The release pattern was influenced by both loading amount of gallic acid and size of alginate beads. Our results suggest that alginate beads fabricated by electrospray method is a promising delivery system for water soluble phenolic compound like gallic acid. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Various dihydrobenzo[ c]azepines were synthesized in good yields via Pictet-Spengler cyclization protocol from tosylamide derivatives of Morita-Baylis-Hillman adducts and 1,3,5-trioxane. The synthesis was carried out in the presence of easily removable montmorillonite K-10 in short time in high yields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a study conducted by Ko Hoon Kim and colleagues which evaluates the efficiency of isothiocyanates (ITC) in organic synthesis. It mentions experimental procedures of synthesis, study of chemical compounds including benzene, thiourea, and acetate, and study on the scope of reaction and biological activity of ITC.

A letter to the editor is presented which discusses a study of the inhibition of melanogenesis by dopamine D4 receptor antagonist (DRD4A) through transcriptional downregulation of microphthalmia-associated transcription factor (MITF) through extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) pathways.

The article discusses the use of annulation strategy for synthesis of poly-substituted benzene from morita-baylis-hillman adducts. It analyses the importance of Moritaâ€Baylisâ€Hillman (MBH) adducts in organic synthesis, and refers to the synthesis of nicotinates by palladium-catalyzed consecutive 5-exo/3-exo cyclization and subsequent aromatization process.

An efficient stereoselective synthesis of ( E , Z )-3,4-dialkylidene- N -phenylpyrrolidine-2,5-diones from Morita–Baylis–Hillman carbonates and phenyl isocyanate has been developed. Synthetic usefulness of the compounds has been demonstrated by the preparation of 2,4,5-triphenylisoindole-1,3-diones and N -phenylbenzo[ f ]isoindole-1,3-dione derivatives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the studies conducted by the authors using the Morita-Baylis-Hillman (MBH) adducts of cinnamaldehydes, explaining that introduction of a primary amine such as benzylamine at the primary position of MBH acetate 1a could provide methyl tetrahydropyridine-3-carboxylate 2a. It details and summarizes the results of the examination of the reactions with some representative MBH acetates of α&#x03B2-unsaturated aldehydes 1a-e.

The article discusses a study regarding the synthesis of pyrrolo[3,2,1-ij]quinoline-1,2-diones via Intramolecular Friedel-Crafts (IMFC) approach. Topics include the deactivation of the benzene ring due to the presence of an electron-withdrawing carbonyl group, using the polyphosphoric acid (PPA) in examining the IMFC reaction, and the alkylation of isatins with cinnamyl bromide.

One new phenylglycoside, 1-hydroxy-3,4,5-trimethoxyphenyl-1-O-[6′-O-(4″-carboxy-1″ ,3″ ,5″ - trihydroxy)phenyl]-β-D-glucopyranoside ( 1), along with eight known ones, isosalicin ( 2), vanilloloside ( 3), (4-hydroxy-3,5-dimethoxyphenyl)methyl-β-D-glucopyranoside ( 4), crenatin ( 5), hydrageifolin I ( 6), tachioside ( 7), isotachioside ( 8), and koaburside ( 9), were isolated from the stems of Spiraea prunifolia var. simpliciflora. The chemical structures of these compounds were identified on the basis of spectroscopic data such as NMR, FAB-MS, and IR. All these compounds were isolated from this plant for the first time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cold atmospheric plasma (CAP) may have applications in treating various types of malignant tumors. This study assessed the anticancer effects of CAP using melanoma and colon cancer cell lines. CAP treatment significantly reduced the in vitro viability of melanoma and colon cancer cell lines and had a negligible effect on the viability of normal human melanocytes. Additionally, CAP and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitor had an additive anticancer effect in a CAP-resistant melanoma cell line. Reactive oxygen and nitrogen species known to be generated by CAP enhanced the anticancer effects of CAP and EGFR inhibitors. The in vivo anticancer activities of CAP were evaluated by testing its effects against syngeneic tumors induced in mice by melanoma and colon cancer cells. CAP treatment reduced tumor volume and weight in both cancer models, with the extent of tumor reduction dependent on the duration and number of CAP treatments. Histologic examination also revealed the tumoricidal effects of CAP in both tumor models. In conclusion, CAP inhibits the growth of mouse melanoma and colon cancer cell lines in vitro and shows tumoricidal effects against mouse models of melanoma and colon cancer in vivo. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Initial accumulation of some BAs occurred mainly owing to fish sauce. • Putrescine and tyramine accumulated rapidly upon fermentation. • Addition of 8% red pepper powder reduced the total BA content during fermentation. This study was aimed at evaluating the effect of basic ingredients (white radish, red pepper powder, garlic, ginger, Welsh onion, fish sauce, and sticky rice porridge) used for kimchi seasoning on the accumulation of biogenic amines (BAs) during kimchi fermentation. Initial accumulation of cadaverine, putrescine, histamine, 2-phenylethylamine, tyramine, and tryptamine occurred mainly owing to fish sauce. Putrescine and tyramine content increased rapidly, reaching 14–15-times the initial values after 7 days of fermentation. Total BA content of kimchi without fish sauce was 42–63% lower than that of kimchi with 5% fish sauce. Moreover, the total BA content of kimchi with 8% red pepper powder added was 25–44% lower than that of kimchi without it. These results show that addition of less fish sauce and more red pepper powder can effectively decrease the total BA content in kimchi. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The red alga Pachymeniopsis lanceolata, formerly known as Grateloupia lanceolata, is a component of the native algal flora of northeast Asia and has been introduced to European and North American waters. It has been confused with a cryptic species collected from Korea and Italy. Our analyses of rbcL, cox3 and ITS from P. lanceolata and this cryptic species has revealed two distinct entities, forming a clade, which were clearly separated from its congeners and positioned with other Asian species. Here, we describe the cryptic species as P. gargiuli sp. nov., a species that differs from others by molecular sequence and subtle anatomical characters. We hypothesize that P. gargiuli may have been recently dispersed by anthropogenic vectors, possibly at or near the same time as was P. lanceolata. Our cox3 data set revealed that one haplotype of P. gargiuli, shared between Korea and Italy, and two haplotypes of P. lanceolata, commonly occurring in Korea and USA, are invasive haplotypes. This is the first report of the utility of the mitochondrial coding cox3 sequences in red algae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Beech mushrooms ( L yophyllum ulmarium) consist of two varieties: brown ( BBM) and white ( WBM). The mushrooms contain ergosterol that can be converted to vitamin D2. WBM and BBM samples were exposed to light-emitting diode ( LED; red, yellow, green, blue, white and blue plus white) and fluorescent lamp ( FL) light by turning the light source on and off for 5 and 10 min, repetitively, for 10 days. LED exposure was more effective for fruit body development than FL exposure. Also, ergosterol contents in WBM exposed to yellow, green and blue LED (171.55, 155.66 and 160.21 mg/100 g, respectively) were significantly higher than those subjected to FL (143.58 mg/100 g). Therefore, considering ergosterol contents and growth of mushrooms together, yellow LED for WBM and blue LED for BBM were selected as the optimal treatments. LED treatment could be used as a new method to cultivate beech mushrooms for industrial production. Practical Application This study was conducted to examine the effects of a LED source on the ergosterol content and growth of white and brown beech mushrooms. Our study showed that LED exposure was more effective for fruit body development than FL exposure. Also, the ergosterol contents in both WBM and BBM exposed to yellow, green and blue LED were higher than those exposed to FL after 10 days. Based on the results in this study, LED treatment could be used as a new method to cultivate beech mushrooms for industrial production as it significantly increases ergosterol content and growth rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Accurate somatic mutation-calling is essential for insightful mutation analyses in cancer studies. Several mutation-callers are publicly available and more are likely to appear. Nonetheless, mutationcalling is still challenging and there is unlikely to be one established caller that systematically outperforms all others. Therefore, fully utilizing multiple callers can be a powerful way to construct a list of final calls for one's research. Results Using a set of mutations from multiple callers that are impartially validated, we present a statistical approach for building a combined caller, which can be applied to combine calls in a wider dataset generated using a similar protocol. Using the mutation outputs and the validation data from The Cancer Genome Atlas endometrial study (6,746 sites), we demonstrate how to build a statistical model that predicts the probability of each call being a somatic mutation, based on the detection status of multiple callers and a few associated features. Conclusion The approach allows us to build a combined caller across the full range of stringency levels, which outperforms all of the individual callers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] We achieved sugar content/composition in raw Korean edible plants using HPLC-ELSD. [•] Among all samples, significant quantities of fructose, glucose, and sucrose were observed. [•] Highest content of fructose (27.74g/100g), glucose (31.80g/100g), and sucrose (21.82g/100g). [•] Lowest content of fructose (0.20g/100g), glucose (0.68g/100g), and sucrose (0.23g/100g). [•] PLS-DA was performed to discriminate the analyzed samples. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Four types of cutting boards (wood, polyethylene, polypropylene and acrylic) were contaminated with grated fish fillet inoculated with Vibrio parahaemolyticus. To simulate a used cutting board, wood cutting boards were treated with sandpaper for 20 min in the same direction. The initial populations of V. parahaemolyticus without and with 3% (w/v) salt were 6.10 and 6.57 log cfu/g, respectively. After 1 h, levels of V. parahaemolyticus transferred to cutting board surfaces without and with 3% salt were 2.8-4.1 and 1.6-3.6 log cfu/g, respectively. Transfer levels of V. parahaemolyticus from the cutting boards to cucumber were 3.36 and 3.27 log cfu/unit area on the wood cutting boards at 25C indicating high levels could cross-contaminate to cucumber. For evaluation of cleaning methods, wiping with paper towels (dry, wetted with water, wetted with alcohol and wetted with chlorine) reduced levels of V. parahaemolyticus on the cutting boards to <2.38 log cfu/unit area. Washing with water was less effective at reducing levels of V. parahaemolyticus on cutting boards than towel wiping methods. However, a combined cleaning method with an alcohol paper towel and running water was the most effective at eliminating V. parahaemolyticus on the surface of cutting boards under normal use conditions. Practical Applications Vibrio parahaemolyticus infection has been implicated in a number of illness outbreaks linked to food consumption. When raw fish contaminated with V. parahaemolyticus is handled in the kitchen, the surface of cutting boards can be easily contaminated. We investigated levels of V. parahaemolyticus cross-contamination from grated fish fillet to cutting boards along with the effects of cleaning method for reducing V. parahaemolyticus. Although wiping with alcohol towel was effective, one-step cleaning methods did not completely eliminate attached V. parahaemolyticus on the cutting boards. Therefore, a combined cleaning method with an alcohol paper towel and running water was suggested as the most effective way to eliminate V. parahaemolyticus on the surfaces of cutting boards under normal use conditions. These results can be used to develop kitchen safety guidelines for preventing foodborne outbreaks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The anticancer drug methotrexate ( MTX) was successfully incorporated into the layered ceramic nanoparticles of layered double hydroxides ( LDHs). The prepared MTX- LDH two-dimensional nanoassemblies showed enhanced chemical and thermal stability of intercalated MTX molecules through the effective electrostatic interaction with ceramic LDH layers. And the surface charge of MTX- LDHs was determined to be highly positive whereas that of MTX is fairly negative. The anticancer effect of MTX- LDH compared with MTX was evaluated in the human osteosarcoma cell culture line SaOS-2, showing much faster drug efficacy with low concentration. The time-dependent cellular uptake of MTX determined by high performance liquid chromatography showed the much enhanced cellular drug concentration of MTX- LDH treated cancer cells than the MTX treated ones. The particle size of MTX- LDH nanoassemblies was estimated in various solutions such as saline, phosphate saline, and RPMI 1640 cell culture medium, showing that the hydrodynamic size maintains at ~100 nm, regardless of the suspension media. The positive surface charge and ~100 nm size of MTX- LDHs is considered to be the major factor in the high cellular uptake and enhanced drug efficacy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) are of great interest owing to their numerous existing and potential biomedical applications. To further explore the potential of MNPs in biomedical and other fields, we have designed and synthesized polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) polymer grafted Fe3O4 MNPs through glutaraldehyde (GLA) link. The success of this process has been ascertained using Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) analysis, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis. The FT-IR analysis of resultant MNPs show infrared peak characteristics of PVA. TGA analysis clearly shows two major stages of thermal degradation, one corresponding to organic phase of PVA and GLA and another corresponding to Fe3O4 nanoparticles. XRD results and SEM images further support the FT-IR and TGA results and confirm the presence of PVA layer surrounding Fe3O4 MNP surface. Under SEM examination, the magnetic cores exhibit somewhat irregular shapes varying from spherical, to oval to cubic. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]