Search

[Display omitted] • A facile strategy was developed to promote heat dissipation and noise reduction. • Heat-conducting elastic fiber sponges with boron nitride were first constructed. • Sponges exhibit good heat dissipation with thermal conductivity of 0.159 W m−1 K−1. • Elastic PU and crosslinking endow sponges with robust elastic and tensile properties. • Sponges can reduce noise by 28.3 dB with a high noise reduction coefficient of 0.64. Industrial and traffic noise has become increasingly serious with the progress of industrialization. Most existing noise-absorbing materials suffer from poor heat dissipation and insufficient low-frequency (<1000 Hz) noise absorption, which not only reduces working efficiency but also leads to safety risks. Herein, heat-conducting elastic ultrafine fiber sponges with boron nitride (BN) networks were prepared by integrating direct electrospinning and impregnation method. The large acoustic contact area of ultrafine fibers and the vibration effect of BN nanosheets in a three-dimensional direction endow fiber sponges with good noise reduction, which can reduce white noise by 28.3 dB with a high noise reduction coefficient of 0.64. Moreover, thanks to good heat-conducting networks composed of BN nanosheets and porous structures, the obtained sponges exhibit superior heat dissipation with thermal conductivity of 0.159 W m−1 K−1. Besides, the introduction of elastic polyurethane and following crosslinking endow the sponges with good mechanical properties, which have almost no plastic deformation after 1000 compressions, and the tensile strength and strain are as high as 0.28 MPa and 75%. The successful synthesis of heat-conducting elastic ultrafine fiber sponges overcomes poor heat dissipation and low-frequency noise reduction of noise absorbers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sheep birth and weaning weights indicate their growth and survival. Thus, identifying molecular genetic markers for early body weight is important in sheep breeding. Pleomorphic adenoma gene 1 (PLAG1) is important for regulating birth weight and body length in mammals; however, its relationship with sheep body weight remains unknown. Here, the 3′-untranslated region (3′-UTR) of the Hu sheep PLAG1 gene was cloned, single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were screened, genotype–early body weight relationships were analyzed, and the possible molecular mechanism was explored. PLAG1 3′-UTR sequences with five forms of base sequences plus poly(A) tails were detected in Hu sheep and the g.8795C>T mutation was identified. Luciferase reporter assay indicated that the g.8795C>T mutation influenced PLAG1 post-transcriptional activity. miRBase prediction showed that the g.8795C>T mutation was located in the miR-139 seed sequence binding region, and miR-139 overexpression significantly decreased both PLAG1-CC and PLAG1-TT activities. Moreover, the luciferase activity of PLAG1-CC was significantly lower than that of the PLAG1-TT, but miR-139 inhibition substantially increased both PLAG1-CC and PLAG1-TT luciferase activities, suggesting that PLAG1 is the target gene of miR-139. Thus, the g.8795C>T mutation upregulates PLAG1 expression by weakening its binding with miR-139, promoting PLAG1 expression, and increasing Hu sheep birth and weaning weights. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this manuscript, we study the inverse problem for identifying the initial value of a time-fractional diffusion equation in an axisymmetric region. This is an ill-posed problem, i.e., the solution does not depend continuously on the data. We choose the Landweber iterative regularization method to solve this problem. Under the a priori and the a posteriori regularization parameter choice rules, we present the error estimates between the regularization solutions and the exact solution. We present some examples to show this method's effectiveness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Enantioselective Ni‐catalyzed C(sp3)−H bond activation remains an elusive challenge. Herein, we used phosphine oxide‐ligated Ni−Al bimetallic catalyst to realize enantioselective Ni‐catalyzed aliphatic C(sp3)−H activation of formamides, providing a series of chiral N‐containing heterocycles in 40–95 % yield and 70–95 % ee. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Enantioselective Ni‐catalyzed C(sp3)−H bond activation remains an elusive challenge. Herein, we used phosphine oxide‐ligated Ni−Al bimetallic catalyst to realize enantioselective Ni‐catalyzed aliphatic C(sp3)−H activation of formamides, providing a series of chiral N‐containing heterocycles in 40–95 % yield and 70–95 % ee. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) is a commonly used emulsifier for the preparation of DL-lactide-co-glycolide (PLGA) and polylactic acid (PLA) microspheres with sustained-release profile. Although water-soluble PVA is normally considered to have low toxicity, monitoring residual level of PVAs is still necessary, especially for the chronic disease treatment medications containing PVA. In this study, a robust and validated method was developed for the determination of PVA using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and refractive index detector (RID). PVA in sustained-release microspheres containing PLGA, aripiprazole, mannitol, and PVA as active substances was analyzed by size exclusion chromatography (SEC) using acetonitrile/water/trifluoroacetic acid (TFA) (300 : 700 : 1; v/v/v) as mobile phase at a flow rate of 0.5 mL/min. The retention time was 11.2 min and PVA was well separated with other components with good linearity (r2 = 0.9997) in the range of 2.5∼75 μg/mL. The limit of detection (LOD) was 0.51 μg/mL and the limit of quantification (LOQ) was 2.53 μg/mL. The relative standard deviations of intra- and interday precision under different concentrations were not more than 2.1%, and the recoveries were all in the ranges of 95∼105%. The established method has been demonstrated to be accurate, precise, repeatable, specific, and robust and, therefore, suitable for routine analysis of PVA in not only pharmaceutical field but also food and textile industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A novel naphthalene based chemosensor SN was efficiently synthesized by one-step method, which can rapidly recognize Al3+by colorimetry and fluorescence dual channel and further continuously detect Fe3+in DMSO/H 2 O (9:1, V/V) with excellent selectivity and sensitivity. • The binding modes of SN to Al3+ and [ SN + Al3+] to Fe3+ were revealed by 1H NMR titration, HRMS, DFT and TD-DFT. • The SN and [ SN + Al3+] have been successfully used to identify Al3+ and Fe3+ in zebrafish organisms. A simple and rapidly responsive novel chemosensor SN (4-(((2-hydroxynaphthalen-1-yl)methylene)amino)-N-(pyrimidine-2-yl)benzenesulfonamide) was designed and synthesized using 2‑hydroxy‑1-naphthaldehyde as a fluorescent group and its structure was characterized by 1H NMR, 13C NMR and HRMS. Upon addition of only Al3+ in a mixed solvent system (DMSO/H 2 O, V/ V = 9:1), significant changes in UV–visible and fluorescence spectra were observed. At the same time, the solution exhibited noticeable color changes (from yellow to colorless) and fluorescence responses (from no fluorescence to blue fluorescence). The fluorescence chemosensor SN demonstrated excellent selectivity and sensitivity towards Al3+ with detection limits (LOD) of 1.174 × 10−8 M. Therefore, the SN chemosensor enables rapid and efficient detection of trace amounts of Al3+ in both environmental and biological settings through colorimetric and dual-channel fluorescence responses. Furthermore, under the same conditions, the in-situ generated [ SN + Al3+] system was used for relay detection of Fe3+ without the need for further optimization, purification, or separation steps. The experimental results showed that the addition of Fe3+ led to fluorescence quenching, eliminating interference from Al3+ during Fe3+ detection, and the detection limit was 1.85×10−8 M. In addition, the binding and sensing mechanism of chemosensor SN to Al3+ and [ SN + Al3+] to Fe3+were described in detail by 1H NMR titration experiment, HRMS, density functional theory (DFT) calculation and time-dependent density functional theory (TD-DFT). A novel chemical sensor SN based on naphthalene derivative was efficiently synthesized by one-step method, which can rapidly recognize Al3+by colorimetry and fluorescence dual channel and further continuously detect Fe3+in DMSO/H 2 O (V/ V = 9:1), which has excellent anti-interference and specific recognition ability. At the same time, the LOD of the sensor SN to Al3+ and [ SN + Al3+] to Fe3+ can reach 1.174 × 10−8 M and 1.85 × 10−8 M. In addition, based on job's plot experiments, 1H NMR titrations and HR-MS analyses, a plausible mechanism for the interaction of the sensor SN with Al3+ and [ SN + Al3+] with Fe3+ was proposed, and the above-mentioned sensing mechanism was further confirmed by DFT calculation. Meanwhile, the sensor SN and in situ generation [ SN + Al3+] have been successfully applied for the detection of Al3+ and Fe3+ in zebrafish organisms. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Focal liver lesions (FLLs) are a common form of liver disease, and identifying accurate pathological types is required to guide treatment and evaluate prognosis.To compare and analyze the application effect of contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) and conventional ultrasound (US) in the clinical diagnosis of focal liver lesions.A retrospective analysis was performed on 682 patients with space-occupying liver lesions admitted to our hospital between December 2015 and August 2021. Of these, 280 underwent CEUS-guided biopsies and 402 underwent conventional US biopsies, with the results of each biopsy subsequently compared between the two groups. The success rate and accuracy of the biopsies and their relationship with different pathological features were also analyzed.The success rate, sensitivity, diagnostic accuracy, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value of the CEUS group were significantly higher than those of the US group (P < 0.05). Lesion size accuracy in the CEUS group was significantly higher than that in the US group (89.29% vs. 40.55%; P < 0.05). Lesion type accuracy in the CEUS group was significantly higher than that in the US group (86.49% vs. 43.59%), and the difference between the two groups was statistically significant (P < 0.05). The logistic regression analysis indicated that malignant lesions, lesions ≥5 cm, and lesions ≤1 cm were independent factors affecting the success rate of the puncture procedure (P < 0.05).The sensitivity, specificity, and diagnostic accuracy of lesion size and type in the CEUS group were higher than those in the US group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pyrolysis is a promising technology to increase pore and fracture connectivity in oil shale and thereby accomplish commercial recovery of unconventional hydrocarbons. Herein, real-time oil shale pyrolysis dynamics are imaged at nanoscale via environmental scanning electron microscopy (imaging resolution of 58 nm/pixel, imaging speed of 1 frame per second, and heating temperature up to 750 °C). It is counterintuitively observed that 1) inorganic nano-fractures started to appear below 100 °C; 2) inorganic nano-fracture width had a non-monotonous relationship with temperature; and 3) organic kerogen areas decreased monotonously with increasing temperature. These findings will establish a standard benchmark for unconventional resource recovery, promote fundamental understanding of oil shale pyrolysis dynamics at nanoscale and provide key guidance on oil shale extraction at reservoir scale. • Real-time imaging of oil shale pyrolysis dynamics is performed at nanoscale • The initial appearance and growth of nano-fractures are observed below 100 °C • A non-monotonous relationship between nano-fracture width and temperature is identified [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two unexpected tetranuclear supramolecular boxes, [Zn4(L')4(CH3OH)2]·2CH3OH (1) and [Co4(L)2(L')2(CH3OH)2]·acetone (2), with M4(μ3-O)2(μ2-O)4 core were obtained through reacting coumarin Schiff base H2L (H2L = 4-hydroxy-3-((2-hydroxyphenyl-imino)-methyl)-2hchrome-2-one) with Zn(OAc)2·4H2O and Co(OAc)2·4H2O, respectively. Interestingly, the original ligand (H2L) has changed into a new structure (H2L') in the process of forming single crystals. The structures of 1 and 2 were characterized by X-ray single crystal diffraction. 1 and 2 are tetranuclear structures including four metal centers (Zn(II) or Co(II)), four completely deprotonated ligands (four new (L')2- in 1, two original (L)2- and two new (L')2- in 2), two coordinated methanol molecules and several crystalline solvent molecules. Significantly, due to the action of Zn(II) and Co(II), the original Schiff base H2L completely changed from coumarin skeleton to quinoline skeleton to form a new ligand (H2L') in 1, while in 2 half of the ligands H2L involved in coordination changed to H2L' configuration, the other half maintained the original structure. In 1, Zn1 ions are six-coordinate octahedral configuration and Zn2 are five-coordinate distorted square-pyramidal configuration with τ = 0.38. In 2, Co1 are six-coordinate octahedral configuration and Co2 are five-coordinate triangular bipyramidal configuration with τ = 0.66. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In gas geo-storage operations, the injected ex-situ gas will displace the in-situ formation brine and partially occupy the porous space of the target rock. In case of water-wet rock, the displaced formation brine re-imbibes into the in-situ porous space so that the system reaches thermodynamic equilibrium. This process, referred to as 'secondary imbibition (SI)', has important influences on the final gas geo-storage performance, as it determines gas loss (e.g., due to capillary forces, "residual trapping") and injection/withdrawal efficiency. Herein, a fundamental analysis of this SI process in a single capillary tube was performed. Thus, the modified Lucas-Washburn equation was applied to a theoretical analysis, and the effects of gas type, formation depth, organic acid concentration, carbon number, and silica nanofluid on the SI dynamics were assessed. It was found that the SI rate depended on gas type following the order H 2 , CH 4 , CO 2 , and that the SI rate increased with formation depth for H 2 and CH 4 , while it decreased for CO 2. Further, the adsorbed organic matter reduced the SI rate, while the silica nanofluid aging accelerated the SI rate. These insights will promote fundamental understanding of gas geo-storage processes. This work thus will provide useful guidance on gas storage capacity optimization and containment security evaluation. • The secondary imbibition (SI) rate follows the order H 2 , CH 4 , CO 2 at the same geological condition. • With an increasing formation depth, the SI rates for H 2 and CH 4 increase, while the SI rate for CO 2 decreases. • Organic matter adsorption reduces the SI rate and can reverse the SI direction. • Silica nanofluid aging increases the SI rate and can reverse the SI direction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heavy metal ions are common pollutants in water pollution. Amino acids, as important substances in organisms, participate in many life activities. The detection of heavy metal ions and amino acids with high selectivity and sensitivity is important. Therefore, based on H3L (H3L = 4,4′,4′′-triazine-2,4,6-tribenzoic acid) and Eu3+, an Eu-MOF was designed, synthesized and characterized. Single crystal structure analysis showed that the Eu-MOF was crystallized in the orthorhombic space group Fddd, and presents a three-dimensional (3D) porous network structure. The luminescence results show that the Eu-MOF has good luminescence stability. As a multifunctional luminescent sensor, the Eu-MOF can detect Fe3+, Cr2O72−, CrO42− and aspartic acid (Asp) in water systems with high sensitivity and selectivity, and the lowest detection limit (LOD) was 1.12 × 10−6 mol L−1, 1.95 × 10−6 mol L−1, 1.89 × 10−6 mol L−1 and 2.20 × 10−6 mol L−1, respectively. These results indicated that the Eu-MOF has potential application prospects in the detection of Fe3+, Cr2O72−, CrO42− and Asp in water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel colorimetric-fluorescent dual-mode sensing sensor JT5 was successfully synthesized, and exhibited red fluorescence enhancement effect and red colorimetric sensing, and excellent applicability through solid-state fluorescent strips and biological imaging experiments on zebrafish to highly sensitive monitoring Sn4+ ions. [Display omitted] • A novel and effective rhdamine B-based sensor JT5 successful development. • JT5 can serve as a fluorescent and colorimetric on-off sensor for Sn4+. • The sensor JT5 was successfully studied using fluorescence and colorimetric of the test strips. • Biomaging experiments for the sensor JT5 were conducted on zebrafish using a confocal microscope. A novel colorimetric-fluorescent dual-mode chemosensor (JT5) based on rhodamine B has been produced for monitoring Sn4+ in the DMSO/H 2 O (4:1, v/v) medium. It has high sensitivity, a low detection limit, a short response time (1 s) and high stability, and can still be maintained after two weeks with the red dual fluorescence/ colorimetric response. Enhancement of red fluorescence (591 nm) and red colorimetric (567 nm) response of JT5 by Sn4+ addition. The electrostatic potential of the sensor JT5 molecule was simulated to speculate on the sensing mechanism, and the IR, mass spectrometry and 1H NMR titration were utilized to further demonstrate that JT5 was coordinated to Sn4+ with a 1:1 type, the rhodamine spironolactam ring of JT5 opens up to form a penta-membered ring with Sn4+, meanwhile, its system may have chelation enhanced fluorescence (CHEF) effect. In addition, theoretical calculations were carried out to give the energy gaps of JT5 and [ JT5 + Sn4+] as well as to simulate the electronic properties of the maximal absorption peaks. Notably, the sensor JT5 was successfully applied to monitoring Sn4+ in zebrafish, and the JT5 -loaded filter paper provided a solid-state platform for detecting Sn4+ by both naked eye and fluorescent methods. In summary, this work contributes to monitoring Sn4+ in organisms and solid-state materials and promotes understanding of Sn4+ functions in biological systems, environments, and solid-state materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diquat (DQ) is a typical bipyridine herbicide widely used to control weeds in fields and orchards. The severe toxicity of diquat poses a serious threat to the environment and human health. Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) have received widespread attention due to their unique physical and chemical properties and applications in the detection of toxic and harmful substances. In this work, a two-dimensional (2D) Tb(III) functionalized MOF Tb(III)@ 1 (1 = [Cd(HTATB)(bimb)] n ·H 2 O (Cd-MOF), H 3 TATB = 4,4′,4″-triazine-2,4,6-tribenzoicacid, bimb = 1,4-bis((1H-imidazol-1-yl)methyl)benzene) has been prepared and characterized. Tb(III)@ 1 has excellent optical properties and high water and chemical stability. After the Tb(III) is fixed by the uncoordinated -COO- in the 1 framework, Tb(III)@ 1 emits the typical green fluorescence of the lanthanide ion Tb(III) through the "antenna effect". It is worth noting that Tb(III)@ 1 can be used as a dual emission fluorescence chemical sensor for the ratio fluorescence detection of pesticide DQ, exhibiting a relatively low detection limit of 0.06 nM and a wide detection range of 0–50 nM. After the addition of DQ, a rapid color change of Tb(III)@ 1 fluorescence from green to blue was observed due to the combined effects of IFE, FRET and dynamic quenching. Therefore, a simple test paper box has been designed for direct on-site determination of pesticide DQ. In addition, the developed sensor has been successfully applied to the detection of DQ in real samples (fruits a Yin-Xia Sun and Bo-Tao Ji contributed equally to this work and should be considered co-first authors.nd vegetables) with satisfactory results. The results indicate that the probe developed in this study has broad application prospects in both real sample detection and actual on-site testing. A two-dimensional (2D) Tb(III) functionalized metal organic framework Tb(III)@ 1 (1 = [Cd(HTATB)(bimb)] n ·H 2 O, H 3 TATB = 4,4′,4″-triazine-2,4,6-tribenzoicacid, bimb = 1,4-bis((1H-imidazol-1-yl)methyl)benzene) was reported. After the Tb(III) was fixed by the uncoordinated -COO- in the 1 framework, Tb(III)@ 1 emitted the typical green fluorescence of the lanthanide ion Tb(III) through the "antenna effect". It was worth noting that Tb(III)@ 1 could be used as a dual emission fluorescence chemical sensor for the ratio fluorescence detection of pesticide DQ. After the addition of DQ, there was a rapid color change of Tb(III)@ 1 fluorescence from green to blue. Therefore, a simple test paper box has been designed for direct on-site determination of pesticide DQ. In addition, the developed sensor has been successfully applied to the detection of DQ in real samples (fruits and vegetables) with satisfactory results. [Display omitted] • A two-dimensional (2D) Tb(III) functionalized metal organic framework Tb(III)@ 1 was reported. • Tb(III)@ 1 can be used as a dual emission fluorescence sensor for the ratio fluorescence detection of pesticide DQ. • Tb(III)@ 1 exhibited a relatively low detection line of 0.06 nM and a wide detection range of 0–50 nM. • A simple test paper box has been designed for direct on-site determination of pesticide DQ. • The developed sensor has been applied to the detection of DQ in real samples (fruits and vegetables) with satisfactory results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on tetraphenylethylene as the skeleton, two novel salamo-type fluorescent probes (TPES1 = 2-hydroxy-1-naphthaldehyde O-(3-(((-2-hydroxy-5-(1,2,2-triphenylvinyl)benzylidene)amino)oxy)propyl) oxime and TPES2 = bis(2-hydroxy-1-naphthaldehyde O-(3-(((2-hydroxy-5-(1,2,2-triphenylvinyl)benzylidene)amino)oxy)propyl) dioxime) were designed and synthesized. Through the colorimetric and fluorescence dual-channel modes, cyanide ions could be specifically recognized by the two probe molecules. Interestingly, the probes TPES1 and TPES2 exhibited completely different spectral behaviors during the recognition process. Of the two, the TPES1 molecule is a ratio-type fluorescent probe, and double fluorescence emission peaks appeared during the titration process. The reason for this phenomenon is due to the rotation of the C–C single bond in tetraphenylethylene, causing the solution system to contain molecules in two states. On the other hand, the TPES2 molecule is a fluorescence-enhanced probe that has undergone two reaction processes of deprotonation and addition reaction successively, causing the fluorescence intensity to increase continuously. Theoretical calculations indicated that the configuration of probe TPES1 is reversed after interacting with cyanide ions (CN−). By calculating the minimum detection limits of TPES1 and TPES2 to CN−, the LOD values were 8.56 × 10−8 M and 5.37 × 10−8 M, respectively. In addition, probe-based test strips have been prepared for quick and simple detection of cyanide ions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In H 2 , CO 2 and natural gas geo-storage, rock-fluid interfacial tension (γ r o c k − f l u i d ) is a key parameter which influences pore-scale fluid distribution and reservoir-scale gas storage capacity and containment security. However, γ r o c k − f l u i d data is seriously lacking because of the inability to measure this parameter experimentally. Therefore herein, a semi-empirical method is used to calculate γ r o c k − f l u i d at geo-storage conditions. Additionally, effects of organic acid and silica nanofluid on γ r o c k − f l u i d are studied. The following results are obtained. γ r o c k − g a s decreases with pressure, temperature, organic acid concentration and carbon number increase, while γ r o c k − H 2 O increases with organic acid concentration and carbon number increase; γ r o c k − g a s first increases and subsequently decreases with silica nanofluid concentration increase, while γ r o c k − H 2 O first decreases and then increases with silica nanofluid concentration increase; for same thermo-physical and rock surface chemistry conditions, γ r o c k − g a s follows the order H 2 > CH 4 > CO 2. These insights provide pivotal guidance on gas geo-storage and thus aids in the implementation of a more sustainable energy supply chain. [Display omitted] • γ rock−gas decreases with increasing pressure and organic acid concentration. • γ rock−gas first increases and then decreases with nanofluid concentration increase. • γ rock−gas follows the order H 2 > CH 4 > CO 2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents the design of a compact dual‐band bandpass filter (DB‐BPF) with flexible passband frequencies and sharp skirt. A pair of stub loaded stepped‐impedance resonators (SL‐SIRs) together with two different tri‐section stepped‐impedance resonators (TS‐SIRs) constitute this DB‐BPF. The low impedance sections of two SL‐SIRs and one TS‐SIR are realized by ring structure, on the one hand to acquire two independent resonant modes of SL‐SIRs, and on the other hand to let the harmonic mode of TS‐SIR be away from the upper passband. The cross coupling, the canceling effect of mixed electric and magnetic coupling (MEMC), and the virtual ground introduce the TZs, resulting in the sharp skirt property of proposed DB‐BPF. Step‐to‐step design process is given to guide the DB‐BPF design. As an example, a 0.9 / 1.8 GHz DB‐BPF is designed and fabricated. The fabricated sharp skirts DB‐BPF has a compact size of 0.079λg × 0.193λg, low passband loss of 0.84 / 0.98 dB and high band‐to‐band rejection of better than 40.6 dB. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Shaking in the early withering stage is a key process effecting the floral aroma of Hunan black tea. • Volatile compounds of dry tea, tea infusion and infused leaf of Hunan black tea were systematically analyzed. • A total of 81 differentially volatile compounds were identified in Hunan black teas. • Indole and methyl jasmonate were identified as key floral aroma compounds in Shaking Hunan black tea. Shaking is a key process effecting the floral aroma of Hunan black tea (HBT). In this study, the aroma composition of HBTs shaken in the early withering stage (ES1, ES1 + LS1, and ES2), shaken in the late withering stage (LS1), and not shaken (NS), and the identification of main floral aroma compounds were analyzed using sensory evaluation combined with gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC–MS), gas chromatography–olfactometry (GC-O), and aroma recombination experiments. Sensory evaluation results showed that the floral aroma of HBT shaken in the early withering stage was with high intensity, whereas HBT shaken in the late withering stage had low-intensity floral aroma. GC–MS identified a total number of 81 differential volatile compounds in HBT, including 30 esters, 18 aldehydes, 15 alcohols, 12 terpenes, 4 ketones, and 2 nitrogen-containing compounds. Further screening of important floral aroma differential compounds was performed using sensory-guided, odor activity value (OAV), and GC-O analysis, which identified three critical floral aroma differential compounds. Eventually, absolute quantification analysis and aroma recombination experiments confirmed that indole and methyl jasmonate were the most critical compounds of HBT determining floral aroma intensity. The findings of this study provide valuable guidance for the production of HBT with rich floral aroma attributes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • PG-based CPB was prepared with over three types of industrial solid wastes. • Effects of mix ratio and curing time for CPB properties were investigated. • Solid wastes composite binder can replace Portland Cement to reduce PC usage. • Dynamic leaching apparatus designed to verify contaminants' leaching behavior. • Mechanism of contaminants immobilization in CPB production was investigated. Cemented Paste Backfill (CPB) technology is considered as an effective method to solve the serious problems caused by the solid wastes' accumulation, and to mitigate the risk of mined-out areas. However, the serious influence on the environment and higher pro-treating costs of solid wastes limits their application in CPB. Meanwhile, due to the high carbon emissions and high costs of Portland cement, its use as a binder in CPB is also limited. This paper used raw phosphogypsum (PG) as filler. Yellow phosphorus slag (YPS), fly ash (FA), steel slag (SS), and Portland cement were mixed to make a composite binder. Solid wastes addition was ranged from 80% to 98%. The feasibility of CPB co-preparation with a high percentage of multi-source industrial solid waste was verified by analyzing the performance and environmental impact of CPB produced with different percentages of solid wastes. The results showed that a higher PG addition was harmful to the property of CPB, leading to a lower fluidity, longer setting time, and weaken strength. However, the development and use of composite binder offset those negative aspects effectively. Composite binder is a CaO-rich binder that provides an alkaline environment for hydration reactions which enhanced CPB strength. Because its unconfined compressive strength reached to 3.1 MPa ∼ 19.5 MPa after 60 d's curing. This will provide a highly strengthen support to the mine to be filled with CPB, thus hindering its re-collapse. The gradually increased hydration products observed from the microstructural characterization further corroborated the strength development path of the CPB. Moreover, the adsorption and precipitation process in the alkaline system contributed to the stabilization of the contaminants from those solid wastes. Therefore, the CPB technology based on the multi-source industrial solid waste is considered as a green, promising, and cost-saving choice on supporting safe mining and mitigating environmental pollution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Schiff base fluorescent probes with "turn-off" fluorescence mechanism can effectively detect Cu2+ ions. • Probe SY is a fluorescent probe with aggregation induced emission (AIE) characteristics. • Probe SY recognizes Cu2+selectively in aqueous solution. • Probe SY can applied to detect Cu2+ in tap water samples. • Probe SY has been good reversibility and recoveries. A highly selective Schiff-type fluorescent probe (SY) with aggregation-induced emission (AIE) characteristics was synthesized based on salicylaldehyde derivatives. With increasing water content, it exhibits good sensitivity and interference resistance for the detection of Cu2+ in mixed solvents (DMSO/H 2 O, v/ v = 3:2), and uses a fluorescence burst mechanism to rapidly analyze Cu2+ ions in aqueous media with a detection limit as low as 3.98 × 10−8 M, which is well below the permissible standard for Cu2+ (∼20 µM) in drinking water (WHO). Importantly, the probe has been successfully applied to the determination of Cu2+ in real water samples with good reversibility and recoveries ranging from 99.3% to 106.6% in tap water, and can also be used for the detection of Cu2+ ions under 365 nm UV light. In addition, the coordination pattern of the probe with Cu2+ was evaluated by mass spectrometry and working curves, and the stoichiometry of the probe and Cu2+ ions was determined to be 2:1. In addition, density functional theory (DFT) was performed to help understand the electronic nature of SY and Cu2+ complexation and chelation induced quenching mechanism. [Display omitted] A Schiff-type fluorescent probe (SY) was synthesized based on salicylaldehyde derivatives. It exhibits good selectivity and sensitivity to Cu2+ ions in mixtures of solvents (DMSO/H 2 O, v/v = 3:2) and has a "off" fluorescence mechanism. The detection limit was 3.98 × 10−8 M−1. Importantly, the coordination pattern of the probe to Cu2+ ions was evaluated by mass spectrometry and working curve, as well as DFT calculation, the stoichiometry of the probe and Cu2+ ions was determined to be 2:1. Additionally, the fluorescent probe may be utilized to detect Cu2+ ions in real water samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Identifying informative predictors in a high dimensional regression model is a critical step for association analysis and predictive modeling. Signal detection in the high dimensional setting often fails due to the limited sample size. One approach to improving power is through meta-analyzing multiple studies which address the same scientific question. However, integrative analysis of high dimensional data from multiple studies is challenging in the presence of between-study heterogeneity. The challenge is even more pronounced with additional data sharing constraints under which only summary data can be shared across dierent sites. In this paper, we propose a novel data shielding integrative large-scale testing (DSILT) approach to signal detection allowing between-study heterogeneity and not requiring the sharing of individual level data. Assuming the underlying high dimensional regression models of the data dier across studies yet share similar support, the proposed method incorporates proper integrative estimation and debiasing procedures to construct test statistics for the overall eects of specific covariates. We also develop a multiple testing procedure to identify significant eects while controlling the false discovery rate (FDR) and false discovery proportion (FDP). Theoretical comparisons of the new testing procedure with the ideal individual-level meta-analysis (ILMA) approach and other distributed inference methods are investigated. Simulation studies demonstrate that the proposed testing procedure performs well in both controlling false discovery and attaining power. The new method is applied to a real example detecting interaction eects of the genetic variants for statins and obesity on the risk for type II diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the lack of proper chiral ligands, enantioselective C(sp2)–H borylation has been a challenging goal for a long time. Recently, three different types of well‐designed chiral ligands were developed, not only addressing this challenge, but also providing a good inspiration for the future development of other asymmetric reactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ganorbifate A featuring an unprecedented 6/6/6/5/5 pentacyclic system, and ganorbifate B with an unusual 6/4/6/5/8/5 ring system were isolated from the fruiting body of Ganoderma orbiforme. Their structures were established using extensive spectroscopic analysis, including DFT calculations of NMR data and ECD spectra. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Uniparental disomy is the inheritance of a homologous chromosome pair or part of homologous chromosomes from only one parent. However, the clinical significance of uniparental disomy and the difference among the prognosis of involvement of different chromosomes remain unclear. Objective: To assess the associated prenatal ultrasound presentations and clinical outcomes of uniparental disomy on different chromosomes and to analyze the relationship between prenatal ultrasound markers and clinical outcomes. Study design: We retrospectively analyzed data from fetuses with uniparental disomy diagnosed using chromosome microarray analysis with the Affymetrix CytoScan HD array at our institution between January 2013 and September 2022. The relationship between prenatal ultrasound findings, the involved chromosome(s), and clinical outcomes was evaluated. Results: During the study period, 36 fetuses with uniparental disomy were diagnosed, and two cases were excluded for non-available postnatal data. Finally, 34 fetuses were included in our study, of which 30 (88.2%) had uniparental disomy occurring on a single chromosome, while four (11.8%) were identified with uniparental disomy on different chromosomes. The most frequently involved chromosomes were chromosomes 16, X and 2, which presented in 8 (23.5%), 5 (14.7%) and 4 (11.8%), respectively. Prenatal ultrasound abnormalities were detected in 21 fetuses, with the most common category being multiple abnormalities (12 (57.1%)). Fetal growth restriction was identified in 14 (41.2%) fetuses, all of which coexisted with other abnormal findings. The rate of adverse perinatal outcomes in patients with uniparental disomy and fetal abnormalities was significantly higher than those without abnormalities (76.2% versus 15.4%, P = 0.002). The incidence of fetal or neonatal death was significantly higher in fetuses with fetal growth restriction than those without (85.7% versus 30.0%, P = 0.004). Conclusions: The prognosis of fetuses with uniparental disomy combined with fetal abnormalities, especially fetal growth restriction, was much poorer than those without. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Twofold C−H annulation of readily available formamides and alkynes without built‐in chelating groups was achieved. Ni−Al bimetallic catalysis enabled by a bulky BINOL‐derived chiral secondary phosphine oxide (SPO) ligand proved to be critical for high reactivity and high selectivity. This reaction uses readily available formamides as starting materials and provides a concise synthetic pathway to a broad range of chiral ferrocenes in 40–98 % yield and 93–99 % ee. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Twofold C−H annulation of readily available formamides and alkynes without built‐in chelating groups was achieved. Ni−Al bimetallic catalysis enabled by a bulky BINOL‐derived chiral secondary phosphine oxide (SPO) ligand proved to be critical for high reactivity and high selectivity. This reaction uses readily available formamides as starting materials and provides a concise synthetic pathway to a broad range of chiral ferrocenes in 40–98 % yield and 93–99 % ee. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multiple lines of evidence indicate that immune system dysfunction has a role in Parkinson disease (PD); this evidence includes clinical and genetic associations between autoimmune disease and PD, impaired cellular and humoral immune responses in PD, imaging evidence of inflammatory cell activation and evidence of immune dysregulation in experimental models of PD. However, the mechanisms that link the immune system with PD remain unclear, and the temporal relationships of innate and adaptive immune responses with neurodegeneration are unknown. Despite these challenges, our current knowledge provides opportunities to develop immune-targeted therapeutic strategies for testing in PD, and clinical studies of some approaches are under way. In this Review, we provide an overview of the clinical observations, preclinical experiments and clinical studies that provide evidence for involvement of the immune system in PD and that help to define the nature of this association. We consider autoimmune mechanisms, central and peripheral inflammatory mechanisms and immunogenetic factors. We also discuss the use of this knowledge to develop immune-based therapeutic approaches, including immunotherapy that targets α-synuclein and the targeting of immune mediators such as inflammasomes. We also consider future research and clinical trials necessary to maximize the potential of targeting the immune system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

By integrating pump-probe ultrafast spectroscopy with diamond anvil cell (DAC) technique, we demonstrate a time-resolved ultrafast dynamics study on non-equilibrium quasiparticle (QP) states in Sr2IrO4under high pressure. On-site in situ condition is realized, where both the sample and DAC have fixed position during the experiment. The QP dynamics exhibits a salient pressure-induced phonon bottleneck feature at 20 GPa, which corresponds to a gap shrinkage in the electronic structure. A structural transition is also observed at 32 GPa. In addition, the slowest relaxation component reveals possible heat diffusion or pressure-controlled local spin fluctuation associated with the gap shrinkage. Our work enables precise pressure dependence investigations of ultrafast dynamics, paving the way for reliable studies of high-pressure excited state physics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A multifunctional fluorescent sensor Zn-MOF was successfully prepared by hydrothermal reaction, Zn2+ as node, 1,3,5-tris(1-imidazolyl)-benzene (L) and chiral ligands D(+)-camphoric acid (D-H 2 cam) as linkers. The study of fluorescence properties revealed that it was a multifunctional fluorescence sensor could not only be used to distinguish for HSO 4 −, but also could be used to detect acidic amino acids (Glu, Asp) and relay determination for basic amino acids (Arg, Lys). [Display omitted] • A multifunctional fluorescence sensor Zn-MOF is successfully synthesised. • It can be used to detection of HSO 4 −, acidic amino acids and relay recognition for basic amino acid. • This sensor is fast response, high selectivity, sensitivity, anti-jamming, and recyclability. A multifunctional fluorescent sensor Zn-MOF was successfully prepared by hydrothermal reaction, Zn2+ as node, 1,3,5-tris(1-imidazolyl)-benzene (L) and chiral ligands D(+)-camphoric acid (D-H 2 cam) as linkers. It had been characterized by single crystal X-ray diffraction (XRD), powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD), circular dichroism (CD), chromaticity coordinates (CIE) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The study of fluorescence properties revealed that the multifunctional fluorescent sensor Zn-MOF exhibited high selectivity and sensitivity to detect HSO 4 − or glutamate (Glu)/aspartic (Asp) by "Turn Off" the emission. Furthermore, the in situ generated [Zn-MOF + Glu/Asp] system was used for the relay detection of arginine (Arg)/lysine (Lys) without separation and purification and exhibited a new fluorescence "Turn On" signal under the same conditions. In addition, the sensing process possessed out-standing cost-saving, rapid responsiveness as well as recyclability in aqueous solution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • The reverse disproportionation process is proofed in transesterification system. • An existing conclusion about a constant rate of reverse disproportionation was break. • An more accurate information about the thermodynamic and kinetic was offered. • The available Sn-based intermediate is demonstrated to play a real catalytic role. Abstract The extensive researches about the thermodynamic and intrinsic kinetic of disproportionation reaction of methyl phenyl carbonate to diphenyl carbonate were investigated independently with dibutyltin oxide as a catalyst, at a temperature range of 433.15–473.15 K and different catalyst concentrations in a stirred batch reactor, for a deeper knowledge of reaction essence. This reaction was found endothermic and showed hardly any reaction in the absence of catalyst which indicate an inferior kinetic characteristics. The reaction rate increases with an increasing catalyst concentration until the concentration went to 8.08 × 10−4 mol mol−1. A possible mechanism involving an in-situ Sn-based species was proposed and finally verified by a good agreement between experimental and simulated data. The available Sn-based species was then demonstrated to play a real catalytic role by extra experiments. All results can also be further utilized to explore the essence of transesterification reaction network. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eleven new cyathane diterpenoids, designated cyafricanins A–K (1 − 11), were isolated from the culture broth of the baisidiomycete Cyathus africanus (Nidulariaceae, Bird's nest fungi). Their structures were elucidated by comprehensive analysis of their NMR and HRESIMS data. Cyafricanins A (1) was found to possess an unusual 3,4- seco ‑carbon skeleton. All compounds were evaluated for their neurotrophic activity in PC-12 cells and anti-neuroinflammatory activity in BV2 microglia cells. All of the diterpenoids showed nerve growth factor induced neurite outgrowth-promoting activity at concentration of 20 μM. Among them, cyafricanin B (2) and cyafricanin G (7) exhibited promising neurotrophic activity, and cyafricanin A (1) showed strong inhibitory effects on both inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) expression. Furthermore, molecular docking studies revealed that cyafricanin A (1) showed strong interactions with the iNOs protein in the active cavity. Unlabelled Image [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Highlights • CO 2 foam stabilized by regenerated cellulose was proposed for CQ reservoir, which provided an efficient method to prevent gas channeling. • The double layer model and dynamic light scattering method were applied to evaluate the foam aging process quantitatively. • The four stabilization mechanisms of regenerated cellulose was investigated systematically and proposed in the foam aging process. Abstract CO 2 foam was widely applied to enhance sweep efficiency through controlling gas breakthrough and channeling during the process of CO 2 flooding. However, the poor stability of conventional foam system under the harsh reservoir conditions restricted the enhanced oil recovery (EOR) performance of CO 2 foam. Therefore, the CO 2 foam reinforced by anionic-nonionic surfactant SS163 and the regenerated cellulose (RC) was developed; also its stability was compared with other foams (e.g. stabilized with SiO 2 , Al 2 O 3 , HPAM and stabilizer-free foam). The static and dynamic foam stability were evaluated by the modified Ross-Miles method, Warning Blender method, oscillation-shear-oscillation rheology. Furthermore, the foam aging rules were investigated via the multiple light scattering method and double-layer glass model. Upon that, the stabilization mechanism by RC was proposed and elucidated by the viscosity, storage and loss modulus, morphological inspection, SEM images and their correlation with foam stability. The results demonstrated that 1% SS163 + 1% RC CO 2 foam has the highest foam stability and regeneration capacity compared with other foams. The dynamic variations in the film thickness and diameter of the foam characterized four stages of RC reinforced CO 2 foam. The prolonged liquid drainage was attributed to the following four RC stabilization mechanisms: increased viscosity, the stabilization mechanism of RC aggregates, the liquid film ‘skeleton’ formed by RC, and the liquid storage effect of RC. In this work, we introduce the regenerated cellulose in the application of EOR and present the unique stabilization mechanism of RC on CO 2 foam. The interface stabilizing capacity, viscoelasticity, thickened behavior and sustainability of regenerated cellulose highlights the application potential in EOR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The control region of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) was obtained from 40 purebred Chinese Tibetan Mastiffs (TMs). Sequence structure and genetic diversity were analyzed, and a phylogenetic tree was constructed. The TM mtDNA control region was composed of ETAS (extended termination associated sequences), CD (a central domain) and CSBs (conserved sequenced blocks) and sequence length showed some diversity, which was mainly caused by the number of 10 nucleotide repeat units [5′-GTA CAC GT (G/A) C-3′] between CSB I and CSB II, which ranged from 27 to 35 among individuals. Seventy-five polymorphic sites were identified, which defined 37 haplotypes; the haplotype diversity was 0.990, and the nucleotide diversity was 1.201. Based on the control region sequences, Chinese TMs were divided into three categories, which were consistent with the origin and geographical classification of TMs. Phylogenetic analysis of 538-bp HVR-I sequences revealed that TMs were most closely related to Labrador Retrievers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A fluorescent chemosensor JT was designed and synthesised. • JT showed good selectivity and high sensitivity for Al3+ without Fe3+. • JT was successfully used for the relay detection of Fe3+. • JT and [JT + Al3+] showed fairly low detection limit. • JT was successfully utilized to detect Al3+ and Fe3+ in test strip and zebrafish experiments. A simple, fast responsive fluorescent chemical sensor for 3-aldehyde-4-hydroxyphenylpropylpyran-2-keto-4-hydroxybenzoyl (JT) was designed and synthesized, which was characterized by 1H NMR and MS. The fluorescent chemical sensor JT showed outstanding selectivity and high sensitivity for identifying Al3+ and the limit of detection (LOD) was 9.76 × 10−8 M in EtOH/H 2 O (9:1, v/v) system. Furthermore, the in situ generated [JT + Al3+] system was used for the relay detection of Fe3+ without separation and purification, and the experimental results showed a new fluorescence quenching signal under the same conditions and the LOD to Fe3+ was 5.21 × 10−7 M. In addition, density functional theory (DFT) calculations were carried out to obtain optimized structures and orbital energy for the chemical sensor JT, [JT + Al3+] and [JT + Fe3+] complexes. Moreover, the test strips experiments were given for rapid detection of Al3+ and continuous monitoring of Fe3+. Ultimately, it is worth mentioning that we have successfully achieved the recognition of Al3+ and relay identification Fe3+ by the sensor using zebrafish as a biological carrier, which indicate the sensor own excellent practical application prospect. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chemical demulsifiers were widely applied for demulsification of crude oil emulsions which were generally formed with natural stabilizers during the extraction. Based on our previous study of the light crude oil emulsions stability, the demulsification performance of four classes of nonionic poly(ethylene oxide) poly(propylene oxide) copolymer demulsifiers and sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) as well as their dynamic demulsification process on the W/O light crude oil emulsion were analyzed by the multiple light scattering method. The demulsification mechanism of these demulsifiers were illuminated by the measurement of dynamic interfacial tension (IFT), dynamic interfacial viscoelasticity, rupture rate and microscopic changes of oil film by single droplet method. The results have shown that demulsification performance doesn’t depend on IFT, though effective demulsifiers could have a lower IFT around 1 mN/m. Multiple light scattering data and dynamic IFT clarified the demulsification process of efficient demulsifiers, quick diffusion and adsorption of demulsifiers, palpable change in interfacial property, droplet coalescence and sedimentation. The capacities of demulsifiers to penetrate into the interface and to decrease the interfacial viscoelasticity were the dominating demulsification mechanisms. The quantitative interpretation of multiple light scattering data associated with the dynamic IFT and interfacial viscoelasticity illuminated the demulsification mechanism of different demulsifiers. The rupture rate and dynamic rupture process of the oil film between the aqueous phases also vividly showed the differences in demulsification process. The nonionic demulsifiers AR902 and PR929 with aromatic groups has the highest speed and best performance due to the similar aromatic groups with those in asphaltenes, which produced the least stable oil film. This study provides a valuable guideline for the selection of demulsifier for light crude oil emulsions and enhanced demulsification mechanism studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A Ni-Al bimetallic catalyzed enantioselective C-H exo-selective cyclization of imidazoles with alkenes has been developed. A series of bi- or polycyclic imidazoles with β-stereocenter were obtained in up to 98% yield and >99% ee. The bifunctional SPO ligand-promoted bimetallic catalysis proved to be critical to this challenging stereocontrol. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The mechanism for intermittent hypoxia (IH)-induced cardiomyopathy remains obscure. We reported the prevention of acute and chronic IH-induced cardiac damage by selective cardiac overexpression of metallothionein (MT). Herein we defined that MT-mediated protection from IH-cardiomyopathy is via activation of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), a critical redox-balance controller in the body. For this, mice were exposed to IH for 3 days (acute) or 4 or 8 weeks (chronic). Cardiac Nrf2 and MT expression in response to IH were significantly increased acutely yet decreased chronically. Interestingly, cardiac overexpression (Nrf2-TG) or global deletion of the Nrf2 gene (Nrf2-KO) made mice highly resistant or highly susceptible, respectively, to IH-induced cardiomyopathy and MT expression. Mechanistically, 4-week IH exposure significantly decreased cardiac Nrf2 binding to the MT gene promoter, and thus, depressed both MT transcription and translation in WT mice but not Nrf2-TG mice. Likewise, cardiac MT overexpression prevented chronic IH-induced cardiomyopathy and down-regulation of Nrf2 likely via activation of a PI3K/Akt/GSK-3β/Fyn-dependent signaling pathway. These results reveal an integrated relationship between cardiac Nrf2 and MT expression in response to IH -- acute compensatory up-regulation followed by chronic down-regulation and cardiomyopathy. Cardiac overexpression of either Nrf2 or MT offered cardioprotection from IH via complicated PI3K/Akt/GSK3B/Fyn signaling. Potential therapeutics may target either Nrf2 or MT to prevent chronic IH-induced cardiomyopathy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The produced fluid from reservoirs are generally in the form of emulsion with oil and water, in which indigenous components such as asphaltene, resin and wax can act as natural emulsifiers. In this study, water-in-oil emulsions were prepared with five light crude oils from CQ Oilfield respectively, and investigated to identify the indigenous stabilization mechanism based on a novel visualized method by in situ solvent-dissolution (ISV). The emulsion stability was studied by dehydration rate and droplet size via bottle test and microscope. Saturate-Aromatic-Resin-Asphaltene (SARA) separation, wax appearance temperature (WAT) measurement, and gas chromatography were applied to characterize the indigenous components in the crude oil. Colloid instability index was introduced to analyze the solubility of asphaltene. Furthermore, the stabilization mechanism of the oil emulsion was investigated by ISV method in both macroscopic and microscopic scales via dilution by n -heptane and toluene. The viscosity of oil, interfacial viscosity, interfacial storage and loss modulus were measured by rheometer to evaluate the contribution of the stabilizer quantitatively. The results showed that emulsion stability increased with the concentration of asphaltene, especially over a critical concentration. This ISV method provides a convincing approach to understand the indigenous stabilization mechanism of original crude emulsion vividly rather than that in the model emulsion. The interfacial viscosity, viscoelasticity or oil viscosity increased with asphaltene concentration in the crude oil. The strong elastic interface film formed with asphaltene restricted the droplet coalescence and controlled the stability of emulsions, which was found to be the crucial stabilization mechanism. Asphaltene and its concentration are the dominating factors of stability of these light crude oil emulsions. This work not only clearly clarifies the significant role of asphaltene in the stability of light crude oil emulsions, but also proposes a convenient in situ method to study the emulsion stabilization mechanism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Let σ = { σ | i ∈ I} be a partition of the set of all primes P, and let G be a finite group. A set H of subgroups of G is said to be a complete Hall σ-set of G if every member ≠ 1 of H is a Hall σ -subgroup of G for some i ∈ I and H contains exactly one Hall σ -subgroup of G for every i such that σ ∩ π( G) ≠ ∅. In this paper, we study the structure of G under the assuming that some subgroups of G permutes with all members of H. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The supramolecular interaction between cucurbit[7]uril (CB[7]) as the host and the anti-cancer drug methotrexate (MTX) as the guest was studied using fluorescence spectroscopy, UV–visible absorption spectroscopy, 1 H NMR, 2D NOESY, and theoretical calculations. The experimental results confirmed the formation of 1:2 inclusion complex with CB[7] and indicated a simple and sensitive competitive method for the fluorescence detection of MTX. It was found that the fluorescence intensities of CB[7]-palmatine, CB[7]-berberine and CB[7]-coptisine were quenched linearly upon the addition of MTX. The linear ranges obtained in the detection of MTX were 0.1–15 μg mL − 1 , 0.2–15 μg mL − 1 , and 0.4–15 μg mL − 1 with detection limits of 0.03 μg mL − 1 , 0.06 μg mL − 1 , and 0.13 μg mL − 1 , respectively. This method can be used for the determination of MTX in biological fluids. These results suggested that cucurbit[7]uril is a promising drug carrier for targeted MTX delivery and monitoring, with improved efficacy and reduced toxicity in normal tissues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Xianglian pill (XLP), a traditional Chinese formula, is widely used as treatment for ulcerative colitis (UC) in China. However, the mechanism of its therapeutic effect is still unclear. Our previous studies showed a low oral bioavailability and a predominant distribution of major XLP ingredients in the gut. In the present study, we aimed to explore the mechanism of action of XLP on UC with respect to the regulation of gut microecology. UC model rats established using 5% dextran sulfate sodium were treated with XLP. After the treatment period, bodyweight, colon length, histopathology, and inflammatory changes were evaluated. Further, changes in gut microbiota structure were detected via 16S rRNA sequencing, and microbial metabolites in feces were analyzed via a metabolomic assay. Antibiotic intervention and fecal microbiota transplantation were also employed to explore the involvement of gut microbiota, while the level of regulatory T cells (Tregs) in mesenteric lymph nodes was determined via flow cytometry. Transcriptome sequencing was also performed to determine colonic gene changes. XLP alleviated colonic injury, inflammation, and gut microbial dysbiosis in UC model rats and also changed microbial metabolite levels. Particularly, it significantly decreased succinate level in the tyrosine pathway. We also observed that fecal microbiota derived from XLP-treated rats conferred resilience to UC model rats. However, this therapeutic effect of XLP on UC was inhibited by succinate. Moreover, XLP increased the level of anti-inflammatory cellular Tregs via gut microbiota. However, this beneficial effect was counteracted by succinate supplementation. Further, XLP induced the differentiation of Treg possibly by the regulation of the PHD2/HIF-1α pathway via decreasing microbial succinate production. Our findings indicated that XLP exerts its therapeutic effects on UC mainly via the gut microbiota-succinate-Treg differentiation axis. [Display omitted] • The immunoregulatory effects of Xianglian pill (XLP) in ulcerative colitis rats are transmissible through gut microbiota. • XLP reduces gut microbial production of succinate. • Succinate inhibits the differentiation of regulatory T cells by PHD2/HIF-1α pathway, which inhibits the therapeutic effect of XLP on ulcerative colitis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The expeditious growth of modern transportation and industrialization has given rise to serious noise pollution, which has brought disaster to the world economy and human health. Most existing sound‐absorber with single pore structures suffer from large weight and the incidence and dissipation of noise that are difficult to be enhanced simultaneously. Herein, gradient‐structured elastic ceramic nanofiber aerogels with cellulose nano‐nets are successfully structured through step‐by‐step directional freeze‐casting technology, which has a gradient structure of "larger pore‐middle pore‐smaller pore" in the propagation direction of sound waves and dual nanofiber networks perpendicular to the direction of sound waves. The integration of gradient pore structures and dual nanofiber networks effectively improves the acoustic contact area of aerogels while increasing the acoustic incidence. The noise reduction coefficient of the obtained lightweight gradient aerogels (average density only 9 mg cm−3) reaches 0.58, and the low‐frequency air compressor noise can be reduced by 23.1 dB. Besides, the silica sol with hydrophobic groups endows gradient aerogels with good mechanics (plastic deformation only 5.7% after 1000 compressions) and superhydrophobic properties (water contact angle of ≈150°). The successful construction of gradient‐structured dual network nanofiber aerogels will offer new horizons for the upgrading of nextgen noise absorbers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An unexpected polyhydroxyl-bridged tetranuclear ZnII complex and a benzoquinone compound derived from metal-ion promoted reactivity of Schiff base ligands were synthesized and characterized. The reaction of zinc(II) acetate dihydrate with oxime-type Schiff base ligand HL1 [HL1 = 1-(3-((3,5-dibromosalicylaldehyde)amino)phenyl) ethan-1-one O-benzyl oxime] in methanol, acetone and acetonitrile resulted in the chemoselective cleavage of the C=N bond of the Schiff base HL1 and then the further addition of acetone to two salicylaldehyde molecules derived from cleavage of the C=N bond in situ α,α double aldol reaction promoted by ZnII ions. The newly formed ligands H4L2 coordinate to four ZnII ions forming a defect-dicubane core structure [ZnII 4(H2L2)2(μ3-OCH3)2(μ-OCH3)2(CH3OH)2] (1) bridged exclusively by oxygen-based ligands. The similar ligand HL3 [HL3 = 1-(3- ((3,5-dichlorosalicylaldehyde)amino)phenyl)ethan-1-one O-benzyl oxime)] was employed to react with CdII acetate dihydrate under the same reaction conditions. No aldol addition occurred but a unexpected benzoquinone compound 2,5-bis(((3-(1-((benzyloxy)imino)ethyl) phenyl)imino)methyl)-1,4-benzoquinone (2) formed. The results provided interesting insights into one-pot routes involving in situ reactions act as a strategy for obtaining a variety of polymeric/polynuclear complexes which are inconvenient to obtain from directly presynthesizing the ligands. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Diabetes is a major global public health problem driven by a high prevalence of metabolic risk factors. Objective: To describe the differences of metabolic risk factors of type 2 diabetes, as well as glycemic control and complicated diabetic complications between rural and urban Uygur residents in Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region of China. Methods: This comparative cross-sectional study, conducted among 2879 urban and 918 rural participants in Xinjiang, China, assessed the metabolic risk factors of diabetes and related complications differences between urban and rural settlements. Results: Compared to rural areas, urban participants had higher education level and more average income, little physical activity, less triglycerides and higher HDL-c (p < 0.05 respectively). Differences in metabolic risk factors by urban/rural residence included overweight or obesity, triglycerides (≥1.71mmol/l), HDL-c (< 1.04 mmol/l), alcohol intake, and physical inactivity (p < 0.01 respectively). There was significant difference regarding the prevalence of HbA1c >8% (48.1% versus 54.5%, p = 0.019) between rural and urban diabetic participants. No significant difference in the prevalence of type 2 diabetic complications between urban and rural participants (74.9% versus 72.2%; p = 0.263) was detected. Compared to rural participants, the most prevalent modifiable risk factors associated with diabetic complications in urban participants were obesity (BMI ≥ 28 Kg/m2), HDL-c (< 1.04 mmol/l), physical inactivity and irregular eating habits (p = 0.035, p = 0.001, p < 0.001, and p = 0.013, respectively). Conclusions: Urban settlers were significantly more likely to have metabolic risk factors highlighting the need for public health efforts to improve health outcomes for these vulnerable populations. Diabetes related complications risk factors were prevalent amongst rural and urban diabetes settlers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pregnancy is associated with significant adaptations in the maternal hemodynamics and arterial circulation, but the changes in the venous mechanisms during pregnancy are less clear. We hypothesized that pregnancy is associated with alterations in venous function, intracellular free Ca22+ concentration ([Ca22+]i), and Ca22+-dependent mechanisms of venous contraction. Circular segments of inferior vena cava (IVC) from virgin and late pregnant (Preg, day 19) Sprague-Dawley rats were suspended between two hooks, labeled with fura-2, and placed in a cuvet inside a spectrofluorometer for simultaneous measurement of contraction and [Ca22+]i (fura-2 340/380 ratio). KCl (96 mM), which stimulates Ca22+ influx, caused less contraction (35.6 ± 6.3 vs. 92.6 ± 19.9 mg/mg tissue) and smaller increases in [Ca22+]i (1.67 ± 0.12 vs. 2.19 ± 0.11) in Preg vs. virgin rat IVC. The α-adrenergic receptor agonist phenylephrine (Phe; 10-5 M) caused less contraction (23.8 ± 3.4 vs. 70.9 ± 12.9 mg/mg tissue) and comparable increases in [Ca22+]i (1.76 ± 0.10 vs. 1.89 ± 0.08) in Preg vs. virgin rat IVC. At increasing extracellular Ca22+ concentrations ([Ca22+]e) (0.1, 0.3, 0.6, 1, and 2.5 mM), KCl and Phe induced [Ca22+]e-contraction and [Ca22+]e-[Ca22+]i curves that were reduced in Preg vs. virgin IVC, supporting reduced Ca22+ entry mechanisms. The [Ca22+]e-contraction and [Ca22+]e-[Ca22+]i curves were used to construct the [Ca22+]icontraction relationship. Despite reduced contraction and [Ca22+]i in Preg IVC, the Phe-induced [Ca22+]i-contraction relationship was greater than that of KCl and was enhanced in Preg vs. virgin IVC, suggesting parallel activation of Ca22+-sensitization pathways. The Ca22+ channel blocker diltiazem, protein kinase C (PKC) inhibitor GF-109203X, and Rho-kinase (ROCK) inhibitor Y27632 inhibited KCl- and Phe-induced contraction and abolished the shift in the Phe [Ca22+]i-contraction relationship in Preg IVC, suggesting an interplay between the decrease in Ca22+ influx and possible compensatory activation of PKC- and ROCK-mediated Ca22+-sensitization pathways. The reduced [Ca22+]i and [Ca22+]i-dependent contraction in Preg rat IVC, despite the parallel rescue activation of Ca22+-sensitization pathways, suggests that the observed reduction in [Ca22+]i-dependent contraction mechanisms is likely underestimated, and that the veins without the rescue Ca22+-sensitization pathways could be even more prone to dilation during pregnancy. These pregnancy-associated reductions in Ca22+ entry-dependent mechanisms of venous contraction, if occurring in human lower extremity veins and if not adequately compensated by Ca22+-sensitization pathways, may play a role in pregnancy-related venous disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently, Dr. Paolo Davoli and his colleagues stated that the conclusions drawn by us were misleading from a mycotoxicological perspective, as they cast doubts on the edibility of a mushroom species ( Tricholoma terreum) that has been always recognized as safe. Unfortunately, they made a mistake, and seriously misinterpreted our data, which resulted in scepticism of our research. Saponaceolides B and M were tested for their stabilities heating directly on and boiling in water. It is undoubted that both saponaceolides B and M are capable of withstanding prolonged heating during cooking. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One new meroterpenoid, named hericenone K ( 11 ), along with 10 known compounds ( 1 – 10 ), ergosterol peroxide ( 1 ), cerevisterol ( 2 ), 3β,5α,9α-trihydroxy-ergosta-7,22-dien-6-one ( 3 ), inoterpene A ( 4 ), astradoric acid C ( 5 ), betulin ( 6 ), oleanolic acid ( 7 ), ursolic acid ( 8 ), hemisceramide ( 9 ), and 3,4-dihydro-5-methoxy-2-methyl-2-(4′-methyl-2′-oxo-3′-pentenyl)-9(7 H )-oxo-2 H -furo[3,4- h ]benzopyran ( 10 ), was isolated from the fruiting bodies of the mushroom Hericium erinaceus . Their structures were characterized on the basis of spectroscopic methods, as well as through comparison with previously reported data. Compounds 3 – 6 , 8 , and 9 were isolated from Hericium species for the first time. Compounds 10 and 11 was suggested to be racemic by the CD spectrum data and specific rotations, which ware resolved by chiral HPLC into respective enantiomers. Compounds 1 – 3 , (±)- 10 , (−)- 10 and (+)- 10 in the presence of NGF (20 ng/mL) exerted a significant increase in neurite-bearing cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two new 3,4-seco-lanostane-type triterpenes, named as 15α-hydroxy-3,4-seco-lanosta-4(28),8,24-triene-3,21-dioic acid (1), 5α-hydroxy-3,4-seco-lanosta-4(28),8,24-triene-3,21-dioic acid 3-methyl ester (2), and one new lanostane triterpene 15α-acetoxylhydroxytrametenolic acid (3) together with a known one versisponic acid D (4) were isolated from the fruiting bodies ofLaetiporus sulphureusvar.miniatus. Their structures were determined on the basis of extensive spectroscopic methods and comparison with reported data. All four compounds were evaluated for their cytotoxicities against five human cancer cell lines; however, none exhibited inhibitory effects. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Hunan black tea is well-known for its floral-honey aroma, but the volatile components responsible for the fragrance have not been elucidated yet. In this study, the volatile compounds in Hunan black tea were identified and quantified by the headspace solid-phase microextraction coupled with gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (HS-SPME-GC-MS). The results showed that 88 compounds were extracted and determined in Hunan black tea, including the dominant components Geraniol, phenethyl alcohol, phenylacetaldehyde, linalool, nonanal and other 5 aromatic compounds. Furthermore, the aroma-active compounds were identified by odor activity value (OAV). It was found that 24 aroma compounds, including geraniol with an OAV≥1 were regarded as the primary active aromatic compounds in Hunan black tea. Finally, partial least squares (PLS) regression analysis was employed and results revealed that Nonanal, trans -nerolidol, benzyl alcohol, and phenylethanol exhibit a positive correlation with the intensity of floral and sweet honey aromas. Overall, this study identified the volatile compounds responsible for the dominant floral-honey aroma in Hunan black tea. • Evaluation, screening, and ranking the floral-honey aroma in Hunan black teas by sensory analysis. • 88 compounds were extracted and determined in Hunan black tea. • Hunan black tea aroma dominated by 10 aromatic compounds. • 24 aroma substances were considered to be the primary active aromatic compounds. • Internal standards coupled with external standards were used to accurately quantify the content. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]