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High-entropy alloys (HEAs) are considered to be promising multifunctional electrocatalysts because of their diverse constituent elements, structural uniformity, and multiple active sites that can be applicable for various reactions. In this study, the Fe 20 Co 20 Ni 20 Cr 20 Mo 20 HEA was utilized as a substrate to rapidly synthesize a nanostructured porous film with a highly active HEA surface area via an electrochemical one-step dealloying method. The dealloyed HEA exhibited an excellent oxygen evolution activity, with a low overpotential of only 370 mV at 40 mA cm−2, which is lower than those of the commercial IrO 2 –RuO 2 –Ta 2 O 5 /Ti (500 mV) and IrO 2 –RuO 2 /Ti (542 mV) catalysts, and a Tafel slope of 119 mV dec−1. After synthesizing a nanostructured porous film through dealloying, the active surface area of the HEA increased by 30%. Following a 60-h stability test, the overpotential difference of the HEA before and after the stability test is less than 30 mV, signifying outstanding stability. The obtained results indicate that the prepared FeCoNiCrMo HEA is primarily composed of two phases, namely the σ phase and the face-centered cubic (FCC) phase. The uneven distribution of the corrosion-resistant element Cr in these phases resulted in significantly different corrosion rates for the two phases, wherein the FCC phase underwent preferential corrosion. Additionally, synergistic electronic coupling among the surface atoms of the nanostructured porous film further enhanced the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) performance. This electrochemical dealloying method demonstrated a high reproducibility and provided an effective pathway for optimizing OER catalysts. • Nanostructure was obtained on the dual-phase HEA surfaces via single-phase corrosion. • The uneven distribution of Cr led to divergent corrosion rates in the duplex phase. • The HEA after dealloying exhibited impressive oxygen evolution properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cuprous sulfide constitutes the primary component of copper concentrate and matte. Due to copper's sulfur-affinity characteristics, achieving one-step separation and recovery of copper and sulfur has always posed a challenge in copper metallurgy. Deep eutectic solvents (DESs) have emerged as environmentally friendly electrolytes for the separation and recycling of metals and their compounds. This study demonstrates the feasibility of dissolving Cu2S, reducing it to copper (Cu), and oxidizing it to sulfur (S) through electrolysis in Reline DES. Optimised electrolysis conditions of 1.2 V, 80 °C, and 6 hours result in the deposition of pure nano-sized copper particles, ranging from 100–200 nm, and the production of sulfur particles with an average size of around 5 μm. The crystalline structure of the anode product is identified as S12 and S6. When Cu2S is introduced into Reline, it dissolves [CuCl2]− without disrupting the structure of the choline ion (Ch+). Furthermore, a kinetic study reveals that higher temperatures promote the redox processes of [CuCl2]− Cu and S2− to S, enhancing the overall reaction rates. Additionally, the diffusion coefficient (D) of [CuCl2]− increases with rising temperatures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: With the increasing development of the surgical robots, the opto-mechatronic technologies are more potential in the robotics system optimization. The optic signal plays an important role in opto-mechatronic systems. This paper aims to present a review of the research status on fiber-optic-based force and shape sensors in surgical robots. Design/methodology/approach: Advances of fiber-optic-based force and shape sensing techniques in the past 20 years are investigated and summarized according to different surgical requirement and technical characteristics. The research status analysis and development prospects are discussed. Findings: Compared with traditional electrical signal conduction, the phototransduction provides higher speed transmission, lower signal loss and the immunity to electromagnetic interference in robot perception. Most importantly, more and more advanced optic-based sensing technologies are applied to medical robots in the past two decades because the prominence is magnetic resonance imaging compatibility. For medical robots especially, fiber-optic sensing technologies can improve working security, manipulating accuracy and provide force and shape feedback to surgeon. Originality/value: This is a new perspective. This paper mainly researches the application of optical fiber sensor according to different surgeries which is beneficial to learn the great potential of optical fiber sensor in surgical robots. By enumerating the research progress of medical robots in optimization design, multimode sensing and advanced materials, the development tendency of fiber-optic-based force and shape sensing technologies in surgical robots is prospected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Auxin is an important hormone in plants and the PIN-FORMED (PIN) genes are essential to auxin distribution in growth and developmental processes of plants. Peanut is an influential cash crop, but research into PIN genes in peanuts remains limited. Results: In this study, 16 PIN genes were identified in the genome of cultivated peanut, resolving into four subfamilies. All PIN genes were predicted to be located in the plasma membrane and a subcellular location experiment confirmed this prediction for eight of them. The gene structure, cis-elements in the promoter, and evolutionary relationships were elucidated, facilitating our understanding of peanut PINs and their evolution. In addition, the expression patterns of these PINs in various tissues were analyzed according to a previously published transcriptome dataset and qRT-PCR, which gave us a clear understanding of the temporal and spatial expression of PIN genes in different growth stages and different tissues. The expression trend of homologous genes was similar. AhPIN2A and AhPIN2B exhibited predominant expression in roots. AhPIN1A-1 and AhPIN1B-1 displayed significant upregulation following peg penetration, suggesting a potential close association with peanut pod development. Furthermore, we presented the gene network and gene ontology enrichment of these PINs. Notably, AhABCB19 exhibited a co-expression relationship with AhPIN1A and AhPIN1B-1, with all three genes displaying higher expression levels in peanut pegs and pods. These findings reinforce their potential role in peanut pod development. Conclusions: This study details a comprehensive analysis of PIN genes in cultivated peanuts and lays the foundation for subsequent studies of peanut gene function and phenotype. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the flocculation of Microcystis aeruginosa by steel slag and evaluated the safety of treated water. The results showed that algal cells at a steel slag dosage of 0.48 g L were effectively removed from two diluted algal solutions when their algogenic organic matter (AOM) contents were 3.54 and 5.81 mg L (referred to as S1 and S2) with algae removal rates of 93.8 and 92.6 %, respectively. Simultaneously, the concentrations of AOM were reduced in S1 and S2 with removal efficiencies of 72.6 and 70.2 %, respectively. Charge neutralisation and bridging were probably the mechanisms that accelerated the flocculation processes. However, AOM had a priority over the algae in the reaction with the steel slag by producing protein complexation, which adversely affected coagulation and increased coagulant demand. Increased K and AOM after flocculation indicated that cell damage occurred at a retention time of 36 h. However, acute toxicity test demonstrated that the inhibition rate did not significantly increase until the retention time reached 48 h. Overall, steel slag has a great potential as a low-cost alternative to control algal bloom and restore aquatic ecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Improving the biomineralization activity of Zr-based amorphous alloys is key to advancing their use in implant materials. A nanoscale 3D porous structure was synthesized on the surface of Zr-based amorphous alloy by electrochemical dealloying in a ChCl-Thi DES. Cu and Al have the lowest corrosion potential in the DES, so the main elements eluted during dealloying are Cu and Al. After dealloying, the surface of the Zr-based amorphous alloy remained essentially amorphous, and several crystalline phases of NiZr 2 , Al 3 Ti, and CuZr 2 formed simultaneously. Among the amorphous phases, Cu and Ni were present in the form of simple substances, while Zr, Al, and Ti were oxidized. The formation of the porous structure mainly included the two processes of pitting corrosion and dealloying. The pitting corrosion was controlled by Cl-, which can destroy the passivation film. In the dealloying process, thiourea played a leading role in the dissolution of active metals. A porous surface structure is beneficial for improving the biomineralization activity of Zr-based amorphous alloys. • A nanoscale 3D porous structure was synthesized on the surface of Zr-based amorphous alloy by electrochemical dealloying in a ChCl-thiourea DES. • A porous surface structure is beneficial for improving the biomineralization activity of Zr-based amorphous alloys. • It is different from aqueous solution that Cu have the lowest corrosion potential in ChCl-thiourea DES. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nutrient removal behaviors of four aquatic plant treatment systems ( Oenanthe javanica , Iris pseudacorus L., Canna lily , and Potamogeton crispus ) were systematically examined and compared. The kinetics of nutrient uptake were conducted with the standard depletion method. All four aquatic species exhibited a strong preference of ammonium nitrogen (NH 4 + -N) over nitrate nitrogen (NO 3 − -N) and nitrite nitrogen (NO 2 − -N). Main pathways of nutrient removal in the aquatic plant treatment system were examined in details. It was estimated that direct assimilation by plants accounted for 28.2–34.5% of N reduction and 25.2–33.4% of P reduction while substrate absorption accounted for 7.2–25.5% of N reduction and 7.3–25.0% of P reduction. The activity of urease and phosphatase in the substrates could indicate the aquatic plant treatment system’s capability for reducing TN and soluble P load. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

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

Abstract: Strontium ranelate (SrR) was an effective anti-osteoporotic drug to increase bone formation and decrease bone resorption. However, reports about the effect of SR on osteoblastic and adipocytic differentiation from bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMMSCs) are limited. The purpose of this study is to evaluate whether SrR affects the ability of BMMSCs to differentiate into osteoblasts or adipocytes. Rat BMMSCs were identified by flow cytometry and exposed to SR (0.1 and 1.0mMSr2+) under osteogenic or adipogenic medium for 1 and 2weeks. The proliferation and differentiation of BMMSCs were analyzed by MTT, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), Oil red O staining, quantitative real-time RT-PCR and Western blot assays. SrR significantly inhibited the proliferation, increased osteoblastic but decreased adipocytic differentiation of rat BMMSCs dose-dependently. In osteogenic medium, SrR increased the expression of ALP, the mRNA levels of Cbfa1/Runx2, bone sialoprotein, and osteocalcin by RT-PCR, and the protein levels of Cbfa1/Runx2 by Western blot. In adipogenic medium, SrR decreased the mRNA levels of PPARγ2, adipocyte lipid-binding protein 2 (aP2/ALBP), and lipoprotein lipase (LPL) by RT-PCR, and the protein expression of PPARγ in Western blot analysis. These results indicated that the effects of SrR to promote osteoblastic but inhibit adipocytic differentiation of BMMSCs might contribute to its effect on osteoporosis treatment. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

In this study, a nanoscale 3D porous structure is rapidly synthesized on the surface of a Zr-based BMG by dealloying in solutions containing Cl− and F−. The influence of the porous surface structure the electrolyte on the preparation of the porous surface structure is studied. The Zr-based BMG is more likely to be passivated when F− is added to the HCl solution. The corrosion potential gap between the five components in the alloy increases after the addition of F−. The phase transformation and structure formation of a Zr-based BMG during dealloying are studied. The main dissolved elements in the dealloying process are Zr, Ti, and Al. Cu 10 Zr 7 , Zr 2 Ni 7 and AlTi 3 are the main crystal phases after dealloying, but the Zr-based BMG remains dominated by amorphous phases. The formation of the porous structure can be divided into two stages, the pitting corrosion process and the dealloying process, and these two processes are dominated by Cl− and F−, respectively. A porous surface structure is beneficial to improve the biomineralization activity of Zr-based BMGs. • A method for quickly synthesizing porous structure on the Zr-based BMGs surface has been developed. • The main process of the porous structure formation is the pitting corrosion and the dealloying. • The porous structure is beneficial to improve the biomineralization activity of Zr-based BMGs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractGelatin has played a great potential in food preservation because of its low price and superior film forming characteristics. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the latest research progress and application of gelatin preservation technologies (film, coating, antifreeze peptide, etc.), discussing their preservation mechanisms and efficiency through the viewpoints of quality and shelf life of animal and aquatic products as well as fruits and vegetables. It showed that bioactive and intelligent gelatin-based films exhibit antibacterial, antioxidant, water resistance and pH responsive properties, making them excellent for food preservation. In addition, pH responsive properties of films also intuitively reflect the freshness of food by color. Similarly, gelatin and its hydrolysate can be widely used in antifreeze peptides to reduce the mass loss of food during freezing and extend the shelf life of frozen food. However, extensive works are still required to extend their commercial application values. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: D‐limonene is an important flavouring ingredient with a wide range of applications. However, its high volatility and low stability have severely impacted its application in the food industry. To address these limitations, temperature‐flavour release control system is expected to be established to reduce the loss of D‐limonene during processing and storage, as well as to control its release by temperature. The aim of the current study is to construct an oleogel system to encapsulate D‐limonene using carnauba wax as a gelling agent and palm oils (POs) as the base oil. POs with 24 °C, 38 °C, 42 °C, 48 °C, and 52 °C melting points were selected to systematically investigate the effects of the base oil melting point on the crystal morphology, interactions, physicochemical properties, microstructure, and D‐limonene release of the oleogels. The enthalpy of melting, enthalpy of crystallisation, hardness, stickiness, and gel strength increased in oleogels prepared using POs with a higher melting point. In addition, the oil‐binding capacity (OBC) (>95%) of the oleogels increased with the base oil melting point, while the fat crystal distribution became more homogeneous and denser. Based on the influence that extraction temperature has on the concentration of released D‐limonene (a lower concentration of aroma was released from high‐melting‐point POs oleogels at low temperatures (<1.9 mg mL−1), whereas the control group released >2.5 mg mL−1), suitable POs can be selected to achieve the release or retention of the aroma. These results demonstrate that a temperature‐responsive flavour delivery system can be prepared with different PO melting points. The molecular dynamics of flavour release revealed that storage temperature and fat crystalline state impact the cumulative release rate of D‐limonene. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

Key message: We developed a new method phenotypic recombination BSA/BSR (PR-BSA/BSR), which could simultaneously identify the candidate genomic regions associated with two traits in a segregating population. Bulked segregant analysis sequencing (BSA-seq) has been widely used for identifying the genomic regions affecting a certain trait. In this study, we developed a modified BSA/bulked segregant RNA-sequencing (BSR-seq) method, which we named phenotypic recombination BSA/BSR (PR-BSA/BSR), to simultaneously identify candidate genomic regions associated with two traits in a segregating population. Lateral branch angle (LBA) and flower-branch pattern (FBP) are two important traits associated with the peanut plant architecture because they affect the planting density and light use efficiency. We generated an F6 population (with two segregating traits) derived from a cross between the inbred lines Pingdu9616 (erect and sequential; ES-type) and Florunner (spreading and alternating; SA-type). The selection of bulks with extreme phenotypes was a key step in this study. Specifically, 30 individuals with recombinant phenotypes [i.e., spreading and sequential (SS-type) and erect and alternating (EA-type)] were selected to generate two bulks. The transcriptomes of individuals were sequenced and then the loci related to LBA and FBP were simultaneously detected via a ΔSNP-index strategy, which involved the direction of positive and negative peaks in the ∆SNP-index plot. The LBA-related locus was mapped to a 6.82 Mb region (101,743,223–108,564,267 bp) on chromosome 15, whereas the FBP-related locus was mapped to a 2.16 Mb region (117,682,534–119,846,824 bp) on chromosome 12. Furthermore, the marker-based classical QTL mapping method was used to analyze the PF–F6 population, which confirmed our PR-BSA/BSR results. Therefore, the PR-BSA/BSR method produces accurate and reliable data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Household air pollution (HAP) from indoor combustion of solid fuel is a global health burden that has been linked to multiple diseases including lung cancer. In Xuanwei, China, lung cancer rate for non-smoking women is among the highest in the world and largely attributed to high levels of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) that are produced from combustion of smoky (bituminous) coal. Alu retroelements, repetitive mobile DNA sequences that can somatically multiply and promote genomic instability have been associated with risk of lung cancer and diesel engine exhaust exposure. We conducted analyses for 160 non-smoking women in an exposure assessment study in Xuanwei, China with a repeat sample from 49 subjects. Quantitative PCR was used to measure Alu repeat copy number relative to albumin gene copy number (Alu/ALB ratio). Associations between clusters derived from predicted levels of 43 HAP constituents, 5-methylchrysene (5-MC), a PAH previously associated with lung cancer in Xuanwei and was selected a priori for analysis, and Alu repeats were analyzed using generalized estimating equations. A cluster of 31 PAHs reflecting current exposure was associated with increased Alu copy number (β:0.03 per standard deviation change; 95% confidence interval (CI):0.01,0.04; P -value = 2E-04). One compound within this cluster, 5-MC, was also associated with increased Alu copy number (P -value = 0.02). Our findings suggest that exposure to PAHs due to indoor smoky coal combustion may contribute to genomic instability. Additionally, our study provides further support for 5-MC as a prominent carcinogenic component of smoky coal emissions. Further studies are needed to replicate our findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

Background: Although titanium plates/screws are effective fixation methods (FM) after L-shaped osteotomy reduction malarplasty (LORM), the ideal FM remains controversial. This first finite element analysis (FEA) aimed to study the effect of various zygomatic body/zygomatic arch FM combinations and their placement vectors on the zygoma complex stability after virtual LORM under the effect of both average (150 N/mm2) and maximum (750 N/mm2) forces and three-dimensional (3D) mapping of stress and strain parameters distribution over the zygomatic bone, fixation methods, and total model. Results: The fixation methods about the short-arm of the L-shaped osteotomy showed lower stress, strain, and displacement values than those across the long-arm osteotomy site. Combined with any zygomatic arch fixation methods (ZAFm), the two bicortical screws group (2LS) on the zygomatic body osteotomy site resulted in smaller displacements and the lowest zygoma bone stress and displacement when combined with Mortice–Tenon structure (MT) as zygomatic arch fixation method. Applied forces caused statistically significant differences in zygomatic bone stress (P < 0.001 and P = 0.001) and displacement (P = 0.001 and P = 0.002). Conclusion: All FMs both on the zygomatic body and zygomatic arch provide adequate zygomatic complex stability after LORM. The 2LS group showed better resistance than rectangular plate (RP) and square plate (SP) with lower stress concentrations. The L-shaped plate with short-wing on the maxilla (LPwM) is more stable than having the short-wing on the zygoma bone (LPwZ). Future prospective clinical studies are required to validate the current findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This study aimed to investigate the safety, preliminary clinical experience, and technical advantages of double C-arm digital subtraction angiography -assisted portal vein puncture for transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt. Methods: Clinical data of 25 patients with portal hypertension caused by liver cirrhosis were retrospectively analyzed from January 2021 to June 2022. The fluoroscopy time, puncture time, mean portosystemic pressure gradient, dose area product, and intraoperative and postoperative complications were recorded. Results: Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt was performed in all 25 patients, with a success rate of 100%. The fluoroscopy time, puncture time, and dose area product were 33.6 ± 8.5 min, 9.1 ± 5.7 min, and 126 ± 53 Gy·cm2, respectively. The mean portosystemic pressure gradient decreased from 22.5 ± 6.3 mmHg to 10.5 ± 2.3 mmHg (p < 0.01). No serious intraoperative and postoperative complications were found. Conclusion: Double C-arm digital subtraction angiography-assisted portal vein puncture is safe and feasible in transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt operation. It can reduce the difficulty of the operation and possesses evident technical advantages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We aimed to prepare a new pH-sensing film based on the immobilization of purple cabbage anthocyanins (PCA) into Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) reinforced by cellulose nanocrystals (CNC). FT-IR, XRD and TGA were used to assess the intermolecular interactions and thermo-stability of films. The addition of CNC and PCA resulted in an enhancement in UV–vis barrier, mechanical properties and moisture resistance. Inclusion of PCA imparted intelligent properties to the films. PCA-loaded films displayed strong visually detectable colorimetric responses to pH (2−13) and volatile ammonia. When applied to monitor shrimp freshness at 4 °C, PVA/CNC films containing 0.6 % PCA exhibited conspicuous color fluctuations from purple to gray blue upon deterioration. As a result, PVA/CNC-PCA colorimetric films were considered as intelligent packaging labels with significant mechanical, water vapor barrier properties and pH-sensing qualities for visual quality evaluation of fresh seafood products. [Display omitted] • Versatile PVA/CNC-PCA intelligent films are fabricated successfully. • Good compatibility and strong interactions are observed among PVA, CNCs and PCA. • PCA film produce naked-eye detectable colorimetric response to pH and ammonia gas. • PVA/CNC-PCA III film display sensitive color response to shrimp spoilage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Mangiferin (MGF) is a phenolic compound isolated from mango, but its poor solubility significantly limits its use. In this study, MGF was embedded into the inner aqueous phase of W1/O/W2 emulsions. Firstly, the dissolution method of MGF was determined. MGF remained stable in solution with pH 13 at 30 min, and its solubility reached 10 mg mL−1. When the pH of MGF solutions was adjusted from pH 13 to pH 6, MGF did not immediately crystallise, providing sufficient time to construct the MGF‐loaded W1/O/W2 emulsions. Subsequently, the MGF‐loaded W1/O/W2 emulsions were constructed using polyglycerol polyricinoleate (PGPR) and calcium caseinate (CAS). The formation and stability of the W1/O/W2 emulsions were investigated. The MGF‐loaded W1/O/W2 emulsions stabilised with 1% PGPR and 1% – 3% CAS exhibited a low viscosity, limited loading capacity, and poor stability. Conversely, the MGF‐loaded W1/O/W2 emulsions stabilised by 3%PGPR–3%CAS exhibited optimal loading capacity (encapsulation efficiency = 95.31% and loading efficiency = 0.91%) and stability, which was attributed to the fact that high viscosity and gel state retarded the migration of inner aqueous phase. These results indicated that the W1/O/W2 emulsions stabilised by PGPR and CAS may be a potential alternative for encapsulating mangiferin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fruit of Pyrus ussuriensis Maxim. produces an intense aroma accompanied by elevated ethylene levels and fruit firmness loss. Although 1-methylcyclopropene (1-MCP) treatment is an effective method to delay fruit ripening, the effect on aroma of pear fruit remains unknown so far. In this study, fruit of ‘Ruanerli’ pear ( P. ussuriensis ) were treated by 1-MCP under room temperature, and then transferred to cold storage. Changes in the total volatile concentrations and the volatile composition were detected during storage. Although the amount of total volatiles increased during storage in 1-MCP treated fruit, concentrations of both total volatiles and esters were lower in 1-MCP treated fruit compared with control. The effect of 1-MCP on ester production was stronger than on aldehydes. Different transcript patterns of ester biosynthesis related genes were observed in 1-MCP treated fruit. During the storage period, the transcript levels of PuLOX s and PuAAT were inhibited dramatically in 1-MCP treated fruit. However, the transcript levels of PuADH s were not suppressed in treated pear fruit during storage. Treatment with 1-MCP effectively prolonged the storage time and delayed the fruit firmness loss in pear fruit. The lower content of total volatiles and esters may be ascribed to the suppression of PuLOX s and PuAAT genes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tapioca starch-water suspension was subjected to high speed jet (HSJ) treatment and the physical properties were investigated by Particle size analysis, Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and Scanning electron microscope (SEM). Particle size analysis revealed a significant increase in volume mean diameter from 17.00 to 40.35 μm. SEM studies showed that treated tapioca starch (TS) was prone to aggregate with each other and markedly damaged at starch granule surface which eventually disintegrated into gel-like structures at high pressure level. XRD patterns showed that all samples exhibited A-type and there was an evident loss of crystallinity after treated over 160 MPa. The TS showed similarity on FTIR spectral pattern but had different intensity in some peaks at increasing pressure. DSC analysis confirmed that TS was partly gelatinized after HSJ treatment, and the degree of gelatinization increased to 34.34 ± 1.0% when the pressure was 240 MPa. These results provided the basic information on the physical properties of TS treated at different pressures and indicated the potential possibility of HSJ for starch modification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fe3O4/cellulose composite, a novel microwave absorption material, was successfully synthesized by the surface-initiated free-radical polymerization. The broad absorption peak at ∼3000 cm−1indicated that the Fe3O4polymerized with nanoscale cellulose through hydrogen bonding and electrostatic interactions. Synthesized composite consists of two phases, matrix (cellulose) and substrate (Fe3O4) with a uniform distribution of Fe3O4nanoparticles in the matrix from SEM micrographs. Compared to other inorganic–organic composites, the composite showed a lowest density of 1.48 g/cm3, fulfilling the requirements of an excellent electromagnetic (EM)-wave absorbing material. The permeability and permittivity of the composite using 5 wt% initiator varied remarkably at ∼17 GHz, and the reflection loss value reached –13 dB at 17 GHz. The partial demagnetization caused by the uniform dispersion of Fe3O4nanoparticles enhanced the magnetic anisotropy of the composite, thus increasing the EM-wave absorption characteristics. The excellent physiochemical and microwave absorption properties could promote the development of EM-wave absorbing material consisting of inorganic–organic composites. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

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

Highlights: [•] We analyzed biochemical and physiological changes during ‘Pingxiangli’ pear ripening. [•] Aldehyde levels decreased and ester levels increased during fruit ripening. [•] Ethylene may regulate ester formation in climacteric pear fruit. [•] Increased ester production coincided with the ethylene peak during fruit ripening. [•] Expression of LOX, ADH, and AAT genes may be critical for ester production. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

A novel adsorbent based on iron oxide dispersed over activated carbon (AC) were prepared, and used for phosphate removal from aqueous solutions. The influence of pre-oxidation treatment on the physical, chemical and phosphate adsorption properties of iron-containing AC were determined. Two series of ACs, non-oxidized and oxidized carbon modified by iron (denoted as AC-Fe and AC/O-Fe), resulted in a maximum impregnated iron of 4.03% and 7.56%, respectively. AC/O-Fe showed 34.0%–46.6% higher phosphate removal efficiency than the AC-Fe did. This was first attributed to the moderate pre-oxidation of raw AC by nitric acid, achieved by dosing Fe(II) after a pre-oxidation, to obtain higher iron loading, which is favorable for phosphate adsorption. Additionally, the in-situ formed active site on the surface of carbon, which was derived from the oxidation of Fe(II) by nitric acid dominated the remarkably high efficiency with respect to the removal of phosphate. The activation energy for adsorption was calculated to be 10.53 and 18.88 kJ/mol for AC-Fe and AC/O-Fe, respectively. The results showed that the surface mass transfer and intra-particle diffusion were simultaneously occurring during the process and contribute to the adsorption mechanism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] A novel flavour microcapsule containing vanilla oil was developed. [•] A core–shell structure of flavour microcapsule was confirmed. [•] The thermostability of vanilla oil was obviously improved after encapsulation. [•] A long-term controlled release property of vanilla oil were achieved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bamboo shoots are widely used in food processing. Many ageing bamboo shoots, which are rich in dietary fiber and protein, contain crude fiber and are of bad taste. In recent years, the micronization technology has been applied in food industries. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of micronization on the physicochemical properties of dried bamboo shoots. In this study, the coarse powder was processed by vibrational micronization (with cooling system) after coarse grinding. The new technology, which is more efficient than ball grinding, was applied to obtain micronized power. By strong- and high- frequency vibration from an eccentric motor, the samples in the grinding chamber were fluidized under the combined effects of high intensity hit, cut and grind from grinder's rod and wall. Huge mechanical force was produced between grinding media and materials, while the cooling system controlled the grinding temperature. The micronized powders were obtained, their particle sizes, powder flowability, water holding capacity, and swelling were studied. The results indicated that the particle sizes of coarse powders become 18.67 μm and 10.35 μm after micronizing for 30 min and 60 min, respectively. The lightness index (L*) changed from 79 to 90, the yellow depth index (b*) was reduced from 23 to 11, and the red depth index (a*) reduced from 4 to 1. Thereby the colour of the micronized powder looked more uniform and brighter, which improves the appearance quality of bamboo shoots powder. The angles of repose of two kinds of ultrafine powders increased from 36.3° to 49.8° and 51.2°, respectively. The sliding angle increased from 50.8° to more than 69.6°. Both were significantly higher than those of coarse powders (P<0.05). The bulk density reduced from 0.37 to 0.26 g/mL, but no significant change was found for the rap density. This made the compressibility nearly doubled, which changed from 22.8 to 46.9 and 48.5, It is showed that the flow properties of powders were poor after micronization. Compared to coarse powder, water holding capacity of micronized powders was reduced from 5.75 to 3.71 g/g after micronized for 30 min, it further decreased to 3.35 g/g after 60 min micronization. The effect of micronization on oil holding capacity was smaller than water holding capacity. The oil holding capacity reduced significantly (P<0.05) from 2.2 to 1.75 g/g only after 60 min micronization. Micronization decreased the final swelling degree from 8.65 to 6.57 and 7.20 mL/g, but the swelling speed was significantly improved. The micronized powder (particle size of 10.35 μm) can reach to 3.63 mL/g in 15 min, while the shoot's coarse powder (particle size of 298 μm) was only 0.97 mL/g. The above properties suggest that the vibrational micronization is an effective technology. The micronized powder with many characteristic changes can be applied usefully in food industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Sorption-based processes are widely used in the wastewater treatment. We present results of a study contrasting the sorption behavior of several dissolved organic phosphorus (DOP) compounds and phosphate onto three ceramic sands with different physicochemical properties. The synthesized sorbent materials were characterized by nitrogen adsorption analyses, X-ray diffraction (XRD) and infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The DOP compounds were chosen to represent different molecular weights and structures. The effects of solution pH, P concentration and contact time on sorption capacity was investigated by kinetic and equilibrium sorption isotherm studies. The order of maximum sorption capacity observed for the three P compounds onto iron-doped ceramic sand samples, on a per gram dry weight basis, is phosphate (DIP)>β-glycerophosphate disodium salt hydrate (β-GP)>adenosine 5′-triphosphate disodium salt hydrate (ATP-P). Langmuir isotherm sorption equation well describes the experimental sorption isotherms. Kinetic studies revealed that the sorption process followed both pseudo-first order and pseudo-second order kinetic models. The iron-doped ceramic sand samples had a higher phosphorus removal capacity than the raw, which could be attributed to its better intra-particle diffusion and higher binding energy. P compound size and structure, and the nature of the sorbents all appear to play a role dictating relative sorption capacity. The sorption process was complex; both surface sorption and intra-particle diffusion were simultaneously occurring and contribute to the sorption mechanism. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Two series of activated carbons were prepared from Spartina alterniflora and from its anaerobically digested residue by H3PO4 activation at various process conditions, and used as adsorbents for the removal of cadmium (II) in aqueous solutions. The surface areas and pore volumes of carbons were derived from adsorption isotherms (N2 at 77K). The surface chemistry of carbons was investigated by infrared spectroscopy. Comparison study indicated that physicochemical properties of the activated carbons were strongly dependent not only on activation conditions but also on biopolymer contents of precursors. Several isotherm models were investigated and the adsorption isotherm data were best represented by the Langmuir isotherm model, with a maximum monolayer adsorption capacity of 47.85mg/g at 25°C. The results showed that the activated carbon produced from S. alterniflora could be employed as a promising adsorbent for removing cadmium (II) from aqueous solutions. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

A novel method to efficiently clean coal-dust-laden air method was proposed and its related equipment was developed. This method does not use conventional nozzles and filters, and has no requirements on the water quality of coal mine. It has strong adaptability and stable dust suppression efficiency. [Display omitted] During the green mining processes of coal energy, large amounts of coal-dust-laden air may be generated. This has caused serious health threats to mine workers. In this paper, a novel method for efficiently cleaning coal-dust-laden air was proposed. The method involved the use of air scrubbers composed of water inlet pipes, radial mixing impellers, water distribution plates, swirl vanes, and dehydrator. The radial mixing impellers were utilized to break up the water which flowed from the water inlet pipes to water distribution plates. As a result, water mist was formed, which then combined with the coal-dust-laden air, effectively sucking it using the negative pressure from the impeller rotation actions. The coal-dust-laden air and solid-liquid mixtures were moved along a certain trajectory by centrifugal force and gravity, and then discharged to the exterior. Experiments and field application processes were carried out in order to test the effectiveness of the proposed method. The experimental results showed that the dust removal efficiency of the method had reached 97.70 %. In addition, the proposed method was applied to a coal preparation plant in China's Shanxi Province. The test results indicated that the average concentrations of total dust and respirable dust were found to have decreased from 71.11 to 2.89 mg/m3 and from 47.675 to 1.958 mg/m3, which met the requirements of environmental standards. Therefore, since the proposed method had not used conventional nozzles and filters, and had no requirements regarding the water quality of the coal mine, it had displayed strong adaptability and stable dust removal efficiency. The results obtained in this study showed that this new method of cleaning coal-dust-laden air was a promising measure by which to significantly improve the working environments of coal mines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Nanoscale tapioca starch (NTS) was successfully developed by high‐speed jet in our previous study. In this study, the adsorption capacity of Cu2+ onto NTS was further discussed. The optimal adsorption conditions (pH, contact time, contact temperature, initial Cu2+ concentration, and adsorbent concentration), adsorption kinetics, isotherms, and thermodynamic were also evaluated. RESULTS: The results showed that NTS exhibited excellent performance in adsorption of Cu2+, with adsorption capacities of 122.31 mg g−1 for Cu2+ (pH 7, 0.04 g L−1, 0.2 g L−1, 313.15 K and 10 min). The pseudo‐second‐order and Langmuir isotherms models could be used to explain the adsorption kinetics and adsorption equilibrium, respectively. The thermodynamic results showed that the adsorption process was spontaneous and endothermic with an increase in entropy. Cu2+ was adsorbed onto NTS, which was confirmed by energy dispersive spectrometry analysis. CONCLUSION: These findings indicated that NTS might be an effective, environment‐friendly and renewable bio‐resource adsorbent for removing heavy metals in industrial effluent. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Food‐grade Pickering emulsions stabilised by plant protein have low toxicity. In this study, to explore the potential of Moringa seed residue protein (MSRP) as Pickering particles, MSRP was obtained from Moringa seed residue and used to fabricate emulsions at different pH and ionic strength. The molecular weight of MSRP ranged between 5 and 25 kDa. The particle diameter of MSRP with positive charge was > 233 nm. The highest MSRP solubility was achieved at pH 5 (206.89 mg g−1) and 0.2 M NaCl (202.55 mg g−1). MSRP generated an excellent interfacial layer as verified by confocal laser scanning microscope imaging, and had lower droplet size, and formed well‐developed elastic networks at pH 5 and 0.2 M NaCl. MSRP‐stabilised emulsion through steric hindrance, possessing excellent tolerance in salt (< 0.2M) and weakly acid (pH 5–7) environment. Our study finds MSRP can be used as potential Pickering particles applying in food and beverages industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to make clear the protein compositions of Sipunculus nudus and investigate its immune-related proteins, proteomic analysis was performed on body wall and coelomic fluid of Sipunculus nudus. A total of 1659 proteins were identified, and 539 proteins were differentially expressed in the coelomic fluid compared to those in the body wall, of which 415 proteins were up-regulated while 124 proteins were down-regulated. Gene Ontology (GO) analysis showed that the GO terms involved in the two parts of Sipunculus nudus were similar, with metabolic processes, catalytic activity and cell occupying the top categories of biological process, molecular function and cellular component, respectively. KEGG pathway analysis showed that 49 pathways in body wall and 48 in coelomic fluid were mapped respectively, and these pathways were mainly related to cellular processes, environmental information processing, genetic information processing and metabolism. The COG analysis showed that 757 proteins from body wall and 889 from coelomic fluid were classified into 26 COG categories, respectively. Pfam annotation revealed the mainly immune-related proteins contained in Sipunculus nudus , such as insulin-like growth factor binding protein, catalase, basement membrane proteoglycan, titin. Our research provides the first proteomic information of Sipunculus nudus , which contributes to the study of functional proteins in Sipunculus nudus and is of great significance for the application of Sipunculus nudus in functional foods and medicines. [Display omitted] • Proteomic was used to investigate the biological functions of Sipunculus nudus proteins. • A total of 1373 and 1566 proteins were respectively identified in BW and CF. • The identified proteins were mainly involved in catalytic activity and metabolic processes. • A solid foundation was laid for studying the functional proteins in Sipunculus nudus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To explore the physicochemical characters of barley grass, ultra‐micro‐crushing (UMC) technology combined with air drying or freeze drying was carried out. After barley grass was air‐dried at 70°C or freeze‐dried at 15°C, it was grinded for 30, 60, 90, and 120 min using UMC, respectively. After combined processing, moisture content, particle size, odor, color, microstructure, water and oil‐holding capacity, the content of flavonoid and chlorophyll, water activity, and sensory qualities were determined. The particle size of barley grass powder decreased, and lightness value was increased; water and oil‐holding capacity decreased significantly (p ≤.05), whereas swelling and dissolving capacity increased in the processed grass powder. On the other hand, the total flavonoid content increased significantly (p ≤.05). Barley grass odor features sulfide aroma, and its microstructure demonstrates lamellar morphology with some fewer fragmented pieces. The results suggested combined UMC at 90–120 min will be suitable for processing barley grass powder. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The fruits of wampee (Clausena lansium (Lour.) Skeels), which contain significant amounts of phenolics, are frequently applied as traditional medications to prevent or relieve inflammatory symptoms. Green honey wampee (GHW) is a local cultivar specially cultivated in Lianjiang City, Guangdong Province. This study aimed to investigate phenolic distribution profiles in the peels, seeds and pulp of GHW as well as elucidate the underlying molecular mechanisms of the effective compounds for anti-inflammatory activity. Phenolic compounds in the extract were identified through UPLC-MS/MS and their ability to alleviate inflammation was assessed using RAW 264.7 macrophages exposed to lipopolysaccharide. Among the three parts of GHW fruits, the total phenolic contents followed a descending order of peels > pulp > seeds. Additionally, eighty-six phenols were tentatively determined from the three parts, of which flavonoids accounted for the highest proportion. Furthermore, the phenolic extract of peels, seeds and pulp exhibited potential anti-inflammatory activity through the suppression effect on different pro-inflammatory mediators (NO, IL-6 and TNF- α). Among the three principal phenolic compounds (rutin, quercitrin, isorhamnetin-3- O -neohesperidoside) detected in GHW fruits, quercitrin was proved to be a more important anti-inflammatory compound inhibiting the iNOS and TNF- α mRNA expressions through the suppression effect on the phosphorylation of IκBα and ERK, belonging to the NF-κB and MAPK signaling pathway respectively. Not only wampee pulp but also its by-products like peels and seeds are able to be comprehensively utilized as immunomodulatory supplements for daily diets due to their rich phenolic contents. [Display omitted] • Flavonoid-enriched phenolic profiles were identified in GHW peels, seeds and pulp. • The total phenolic contents: peels > pulp > seeds. • Crude phenolic extract of three fractions reduced distinct inflammation cytokines. • Quercitrin was an important anti-inflammatory phenol in GHW fruits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • A glycoprotein (SGP1) was isolated from Sipunculus nudus for the first time. • SGP1 is a protein-dominate glycoprotein with O-glycosidic bonds containing 92.8% protein. • SGP1 was a predominantly β-sheet glycoprotein. • SGP1 exhibited strong immune-enhancing activity by promoting proliferation, phagocytosis and the secretions of NO, IL-1β, TNF-α and IL-6 on RAW264.7 cells. • SGP1 exerts immune-enhancing activity via NF-κB signaling pathway. Sipunculus nudus , an edible marine invertebrate, has long been used as traditional Chinese medicine in folk remedies. In order to assess the immunoregulatory activity of glycoproteins in Sipunculus nudus and conduct a structure–activity relationship, a glycoprotein (SGP1) with molecular mass of 9.26 kDa was purified from Sipunculus nudus , and its chemical structure as well as immune-enhancing activity was investigated in this study. Structure analysis revealed that SGP1, a protein-dominate glycoprotein with O-glycosidic bonds, contained 92.8 % protein and 3.1 % saccharide. GC–MS result indicated that the saccharide moieties of SGP1 basically consisted of lyxose (Lyx), xylose (Xyl) as well as glucose (Glu) at a molar proportion of 0.87:4.16:1.36. The fourier transform infrared specoscopy (FT-IR) result proved that SGP1 have a typical characteristic of glycoprotein. Besides, circular dichroism (CD) result showed that SGP1 contained 4.1 % α-helix, 42.5 % β-sheet, 21.4 % β-turn, and 32.0 % random coil, indicating it's mainly a β-sheet glycoprotein. The amino acid sequence of SGP1 shared a similarity to the Myohemerythrin (sp|Q5K473|HEMTM) with protein sequence coverage of 28.3 %. Moreover, the activity evaluation results showed that SGP1 exhibited significant immune-enhancing activity to the RAW 264.7 macrophages by promoting macrophages proliferation, enhancing phagocytic capacity, and simultaneously stimulating the secretions of nitric oxide (NO), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) via NF-κB pathways. In this study, SGP1 as a novel glycoprotein had an obvious immune-enhancing activity to macrophages, and thus could be applied in the functional foods as a potential immunopotentiator for the hypoimmune population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Microcystis aeruginosa (M. aeruginosa) blooms and Spartina alterniflora (S. alterniflora) invasion have caused serious damage to local ecological environment. This study validated the possibility of transforming the abandoned S. alterniflora into a biological resource to inhibit M. aeruginosa blooms through allelopathy. The results showed that the inhibitory effect became stronger with the increasing S. alterniflora concentration by decreasing chlorophyll a and weakening photosynthesis when S. alterniflora aqueous extract concentration was over 0.05 g/mL. The results of GC–MS showed that Cyclohexane, Heptane, 2-Cyclohexen-1-one, Hexadecanoic acid, 2,4-Di-tert-butylphenol and Hydrocinnamic acid may be the main allelochemicals. In addition, the S. alterniflora aqueous extract had little effect on the relative abundance and diversity of microbial communities in the culture system. This study provided a novel idea of controlling the M. aeruginosa blooms using the rapidly expanding S. alterniflora. Unlabelled Image • Effect of S. alterniflora extracts on M. aeruginosa blooms was investigated. • S. alterniflora extracts obviously inhibit M. aeruginosa by reducing photosynthesis. • Allelochemicals in S. alterniflora extracts were identified by GC–MS. • S. alterniflora extracts showed little effect on microbial community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Outdoor air pollution is a growing public health concern, particularly in urban settings. However, there are limited epidemiological data on outdoor air pollution in rural areas with substantial levels of air pollution attributed to solid fuel burning for household cooking and heating. Xuanwei and Fuyuan are rural counties in China where the domestic combustion of locally sourced bituminous ("smoky") coal has been associated with the highest lung cancer rates in China. We previously assessed indoor and personal air pollution exposures in this area; however, the influence of indoor coal combustion and household ventilation on outdoor air pollution has not been assessed. Therefore, we measured outdoor fine particulate matter (PM2.5), species of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) including naphthalene (NAP) and the known carcinogen benzo(a)pyrene (BaP), sulfur dioxide (SO2), and nitrogen dioxide (NO2) over two consecutive 24-h sampling periods in 29 villages. Just over half of the villages were revisited two to nine months after the initial sampling period to repeat all measurements. The overall geometric mean (GM) of outdoor PM2.5, BaP, NAP, and NO2 were 45.3 µg/m3, 9.7 ng/m3, 707.7 ng/m3, and 91.5 µg/m3, respectively. Using linear mixed effects models, we found that burning smoky coal was associated with higher outdoor BaP concentrations [GM ratio (GMR) = 2.79] and lower outdoor SO2 detection rates (GMR = 0.43), compared to areas burning smokeless coal. Areas with predominantly ventilated stoves (> 50% of stoves) had higher outdoor BaP (GMR = 1.49) compared to areas with fewer ventilated stoves. These results show that outdoor air pollution in a rural region of China was associated with the type of coal used for cooking and heating indoors and the presence of stove ventilation. Our findings suggest that efforts of household stove improvement to reduce indoor air pollution have resulted in higher outdoor air pollution levels. Further reducing adverse health effects in rural villages from household coal combustion will require the use of cleaner fuel types. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, tung oil was placed in different environments to observe the solidification behavior and explore the photocuring activity of tung oil. And the photocuring mochas of tung oil was revealed by measuring the FTIR spectrum, UV spectrum, peroxide value, and so on. The results showed that the photocurrent reaction process of tung oil mainly included oxidative polymerization and free radical polymerization, among which oxidase polymerization was the main reaction. Oxygen played a key role in the photocuring process of tung oil. The main function of oxygen was to form hydroperoxides with the free radicals formed after the reaction of hydrogen extraction of tung oil under UV light, which promoted the oxidative polymerization of tung oil. And the cationic photo initiator could greatly promote the photocuring of tung oil and the formed film had a good thermal stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Lifetime use of bituminous ('smoky') coal is associated with nearly a 100-fold higher risk of lung cancer mortality compared with anthracite ('smokeless') coal use in rural Xuanwei, China, among women. Risk of mortality from ischaemic heart disease (IHD) and stroke for these coal types has not been evaluated.Methods: A cohort of 16 323 non-smoking women in Xuanwei, who were lifetime users of either smoky or smokeless coal, were followed up from 1976 to 2011. We estimated hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) to evaluate lifetime use of coal types and stoves in the home in relation to risk of IHD and stroke mortality.Results: Among lifetime users of smokeless coal, higher average exposure intensity (≥4 tons/year vs <2.5 tons/year, HR = 7.9, 95% CI = 3.5-17.8; Ptrend =<0.0001) and cumulative exposure (>64 ton-years vs ≤28 ton-years, HR = 6.5, 95% CI = 1.5-28.3; Ptrend =0.003) during follow-up and over their lifetime was associated with increased IHD mortality, and ventilated stove use dramatically reduced this risk (HR = 0.2, 95% CI 0.1-0.5). Higher cumulative exposure to smoky coal during follow-up showed positive associations with IHD mortality, but the evidence for other metrics was less consistent compared with associations with smokeless coal use.Conclusions: Higher use of smokeless coal, which is burned throughout China and is generally regarded to be a cleaner fuel type, is associated with IHD mortality. Use of cleaner fuels or stove interventions may be effective in reducing the increasing burden of IHD in developing regions that currently rely on smokeless coal for cooking and heating. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to evaluate internal biomarkers and external estimation of exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) in a high cancer mortality area in southeast China and identify which of these showed a stronger association of PAH with cancer mortality. A retrospective death survey was conducted to determine the mortality rate of cancer. Cumulative and aggregate external exposures to PAHs of local residents were estimated by field sampling. Three regions in southwest China with gradient PAH exposure levels from high to low (H, M, and L) were selected in this study. Research participants were selected from these three regions using a statistical sampling method. To determine the internal exposure, urinary OH-PAHs were measured using the first morning urine samples. From the retrospective death survey, the highest age-standardized lung cancer mortality rate occurred in Region H (78 per 100,000 person-years), followed by that in Regions M (33 per 100,000 person-years) and L (15 per 100,000 person-years), and the rate was nearly four times China's national mortality rate (20 per 100,000 person-years). Residents estimated daily aggregate exposure doses per unit body weight to carcinogenic benzo(a)pyrene equivalent concentration were 159 ± 14 ng-kg−1-day−1, 7.41 ± 2.76 ng-kg−1-day−1, and 6.13 ± 2.89 ng-kg−1-day−1 in Region H, M, and L, respectively. The participants in Region M had the greatest urinary OH-PAH concentration (9.10 ± 4.92 μg-g−1 crt), followed by Region H (8.01 ± 4.22 μg-g−1 crt) and L (7.12 ± 3.10 μg-g−1 crt). The spatial difference in the total OH-PAHs was not statistically significant. Aggregate and cumulative exposure to 16 PAHs from external routes were found, and external exposure had a stringer relationship with lung cancer mortality than internal exposure. Unlabelled Image • Internal and external exposure to PAH with cancer mortality was evaluated in China. • Method used was retrospective population based field site death survey. • Aggregate and cumulative exposure estimation of 16 PAHs • This was first study on relationship between cancer mortality rate and biomarkers. • PAH external exposure levels had stronger relationship with lung cancer mortality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tapioca starch (TS) suspensions (10%, w/v) were subjected to high speed jet (HSJ) processing at 80, 120, 160, 200 and 240 MPa for one pass, and the effects of HSJ treatment on solubility, rheological, pasting, morphological and molecular properties were further investigated. Polarized light microscopy observation revealed TS was partly gelatinized, and the number and clarity of"Maltese cross" decreased with the increase of HSJ pressure. The solubility of TS was increased significantly from 1.59% (0 MPa) to 12.11% (240 MPa). Dynamic oscillation analysis showed that TS gels displayed less elastic and more liquid like after HJS treatment, and all samples displayed pseudo-plastic properties during flow properties analysis. Rapid Visco Analyser measurement indicated that treated samples showed significantly decreased in peak viscosity and exhibited a lower tendency towards retrogradation on cooling process compared to untreated TS. Size-exclusion chromatography analysis suggested that the degradation of TS happened during HSJ treatment, and the degradation was more prominent beyond 160 MPa. The results showed that the significant changed in physicochemical and structural properties of treated TS were related to its degradation. These observations would provide an alternative and environmentally approach for starch modification. Image 1 • The viscosity decreased after treated by high speed jet (HSJ). • HSJ treatment significantly improved the solubility of tapioca starch (TS). • HSJ treatment had an effective change in rheological properties of TS. • The degradation of TS happened, and it was more pronounced upon high pressure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Household air pollution (HAP) from indoor combustion of solid fuel is a global health burden linked to lung cancer. In Xuanwei, China, lung cancer rate for nonsmoking women is among the highest in the world and largely attributed to high levels of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) that are produced from combustion of smoky (bituminous) coal used for cooking and heating. Epigenetic age acceleration (EAA), a DNA methylation-based biomarker of aging, has been shown to be highly correlated with biological processes underlying the susceptibility of age-related diseases. We aim to assess the association between HAP exposure and EAA. We analyzed data from 106 never-smoking women from Xuanwei, China. Information on fuel type was collected using a questionnaire, and validated exposure models were used to predict levels of 43 HAP constituents. Exposure clusters were identified using hierarchical clustering. EAA was derived for five epigenetic clocks defined as the residuals resulting from regressing each clock on chronological age. We used generalized estimating equations to test associations between exposure clusters derived from predicted levels of HAP exposure, ambient 5-methylchrysene (5-MC), a PAH previously found to be associated with risk of lung cancer, and EAA, while accounting for repeated-measurements and confounders. We observed an increase in GrimAge EAA for clusters with 31 and 33 PAHs reflecting current (β = 0.77 y per standard deviation (SD) increase, 95 % CI:0.36,1.19) and childhood (β = 0.92 y per SD, 95 % CI:0.40,1.45) exposure, respectively. 5-MC (ng/m3-year) was found to be associated with GrimAge EAA for current (β = 0.15 y, 95 % CI:0.05,0.25) and childhood (β = 0.30 y, 95 % CI:0.13,0.47) exposure. Our findings suggest that exposure to PAHs from indoor smoky coal combustion, particularly 5-MC, is associated with GrimAge EAA, a biomarker of mortality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Solid fuel cooking stoves have been used as primary energy sources for residential cooking and heating activities throughout human history. It has been estimated that domestic combustion of solid fuels makes a considerable contribution to global greenhouse gas (GHG) and pollutant emissions. The majority of data collected from simulated tests in laboratories does not accurately reflect the performance of stoves in actual use. This study characterizes in-field emissions of fine particulate matter (PM2.5), carbon dioxide (CO2), carbon monoxide (CO), methane (CH4), and total non-methane hydrocarbons (TNMHC) from residential cooking events with various fuel and stove types from villages in two provinces in China (Tibet and Yunnan) in the Himalayan area. Emissions of PM2.5 and gas-phase pollutant concentrations were measured directly and corresponding emission factors calculated using the carbon balance approach. Real-time monitoring of indoor PM2.5, CO2, and CO concentrations was conducted simultaneously. Major factors responsible for emission variance among and between cooking stoves are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • OGD upregulates CYP4A expression and 20-HETE production in astrocytes. • Conditioned media from stimulated astrocytes promotes angiogenesis through 20-HETE. • HET0016 suppresses angiogenesis and worsens neurological outcomes 14 days poststroke. • 20-HETE mediates OGD activated VEGF and HIF-1α via JNK pathway in astrocytes. • HET0016 decreases VEGF and HIF-1α by inhibiting JNK pathway in ischemic brains. Abstract 20-Hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid (20-HETE), a cytochrome P450 4A (CYP4A) metabolite of arachidonic acid, is one of the primary eicosanoids in most of microcirculatory beds. Studies have indicated that 20-HETE has important functions in the modulation of vascular tone, ion transport, inflammation reaction, and cellular proliferation. Both we and others have demonstrated that 20-HETE plays an important role in acute phase of ischemic stroke. However, little is known about the effect of 20-HETE on recovery phase of stroke. Crosstalk between the cells within the neurovascular unit is increasingly suspected of playing critical roles in stroke recovery. We found that CYP4A is upregulated in astrocytes exposed to oxygen-glucose deprivation (OGD), which increases the production of 20-HETE that promotes endothelial cell proliferation, tube formation and migration. siRNA suppression of CYP4A or 20-HETE inhibitor prevents this effect. In a mouse model of transient focal cerebral ischemia, inhibition of CYP4A reduces peri-infact angiogenesis and worsens neurological deficits 14 days after stroke. We further showed that ischemia injury increases VEGF and HIF-1α expression in cell cultures and ischemic brains, which is negated by a 20-HETE inhibitor-HET0016. Lastly, we showed that JNK signaling pathway is a component of 20-HETE regulated ischemic angiogenesis after stroke. Taken together, we demonstrated a positive influence of 20-HETE in angiogenesis in later stage of stroke. These molecular and in vivo findings also support a previously undescribed mechanism of crosstalk between reactive astrocytes and endothelial cells wherein 20-HETE promotes neurovascular remodeling and functional recovery after ischemic stroke. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study aim was to investigate whether household bituminous ("smoky") coal use and personal exposure to combustion emissions were associated with immunologic/inflammatory marker levels. A cross-sectional study of healthy never-smoking women from rural Xuanwei and Fuyuan, China was conducted, which included 80 smoky coal and 14 anthracite ("smokeless") coal users. Personal exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and benzo[a]pyrene (BaP) was assessed using portable devices, while 67 circulating plasma immunologic/inflammatory markers were measured using multiplex bead-based assays. Multivariable linear regression models were employed to estimate associations between smoky coal versus smokeless coal use, indoor air pollutants, and immunologic/inflammatory markers. Six markers were altered among smoky coal users compared to smokeless coal, including significantly decreased interferon-inducible T-cell alpha chemoattractant (CXCL11/I-TAC), and increased serum amyloid P component (SAP). CXCL11/I-TAC was previously found to be reduced in workers exposed to high levels of diesel engine exhaust, which exhibits similar constituents as coal combustion emissions. Further, there was evidence that elevated PM2.5 and BaP exposure was associated with significantly diminished levels of the serum amyloid A (SAA); however, the false discovery rates (FDRs) were >0.2 after accounting for multiple comparisons. Inflammatory processes may thus mediate the carcinogenic effects attributed to smoky coal emissions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Estuarial saline wetlands have been recognized as a vital role in CO cycling. However, insufficient attention has been paid to estimating CO fluxes from estuarial saline wetlands. In this study, the static chamber-gas chromatography (GC) method was used to quantify CO budget of an estuarial saline reed ( Phragmites australis) wetland in Jiaozhou Bay in Qingdao City of Shandong Province, China during the reed growing season (May to October) in 2014. The CO budget study involved net ecosystem CO exchange (NEE), ecosystem respiration (R) and gross primary production (GPP). Temporal variation in CO budget and the impact of air/soil temperature, illumination intensity and aboveground biomass exerted on CO budget were analyzed. Results indicated that the wetland was acting as a net sink of 1129.16 g/mduring the entire growing season. Moreover, the values of R and GPP were 1744.89 g/m and 2874.05 g/m, respectively; the ratio of R and GPP was 0.61. Diurnal and monthly patterns of CO budget varied significantly during the study period. R showed exponential relationships with air temperature and soil temperature at 5 cm, 10 cm, 20 cm depths, and soil temperature at 5 cm depth was the most crucial influence factor among them. Meanwhile, temperature sensitivity (Q) of R was negatively correlated with soil temperature. Light and temperature exerted strong controls over NEE and GPP. Aboveground biomass over the whole growing season showed non-linear relationships with CO budget, while those during the early and peak growing season showed significant linear relationships with CO budget. This research provides valuable reference for CO exchange in estuarial saline wetland ecosystem. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]