Improving the Monophenolic Yield of Lignin Depolymerization in Dualistic Aprotic Solvent System by Organic Solvent Fractionation.

Converting lignin into aromatic chemicals is a promising strategy for the high-value utilization of lignocellulosic feedstock. However, the inherent heterogeneity of lignin poses a significant obstacle to achieving efficient conversion and optimal product yields within bio-refinery systems. Herein, we employed a one-step fractionation method to enhance lignin homogeneity and utilized the THF/DMSO-EtONa (tetrahydrofuran/dimethyl sulfoxide-sodium ethoxide) system to depolymerize the fractionated lignin. Three protic and three aprotic solvents were used for fractionation. The impact of the solvent properties on the structure and the depolymerization efficiency of the fractionated lignin was investigated. Methanol-fractionated lignin generated the benzoic acid compounds with a yield of 30 wt%, 50 % higher than that of the unfractionated lignin. The polarities (δP), hydrogen bonding abilities (δH), and viscosities (η) of selected protic solvents showed strong linear correlation with molecular weight (Mw), polymer dispersity index (PDI), and syringyl/guaiacyl ratio (S/G ratio) of the fractionated lignin, as well as the total yield of benzoic acid compounds derived from the ß-O-4 bond cleavage. This study elucidates the relationship between solvent properties and lignin structure and proposes a promising approach for refining lignin to enhance utilization efficiency, thereby presenting a potential strategy for value-added application of complex lignin polymers.

Cellulose nanocrystal/graphene oxide one-dimensional photonic crystal film with excellent UV-blocking and transparency.

Achieving excellent ultraviolet (UV) blocking properties and maintaining high light transmittance are highly challenging. In this study, a facile and green polymer-assisted vacuum filtration strategy was used to prepare cellulose nanocrystal (CNC) one-dimensional photonic crystal (1DPhC) films with excellent UV-blocking performance and good transparency. The polymer-assisted self-assembly behaviors of CNC and the hydrogen bonding interaction between CNC, polyethylene glycol (PEG), and graphene oxide (GO) drive the homogeneous distribution and parallel alignment of GO. The UV absorption of GO and high reflection of UV resulting from the chiral nematic structure of CNCs result in excellent UV-blocking and high visible light transmission. Besides, the strong hydrogen bonding interaction among CNC, PEG, and GO endows the films with obviously increased mechanical properties. The UV-blocking and the transparency of the CNC composite films could reach 98.3 % and 60.5 %, respectively. Besides, the strain at break of the composite film reached 1.72 ± 0.11 %, which was 535.94 % of neat CNC films. The CNC composite films present great potential in the field of UV-blocking glass, sensors, anti-counterfeiting measures, radiation protection, and so on.

The trait co-variation regulates the response of bryophytes to nitrogen deposition: A meta-analysis.

The nitrogen deposition has the potential to alter the trait composition of plant communities by affecting the fitness and physiological adaptation of species, consequently exerting an influence on ecosystem processes. Despite the importance of bryophytes in nutrient and carbon dynamics across different ecosystems, there is a lack of research examining the relationship between nitrogen deposition and the co-variation of bryophyte traits. To address this gap, a meta-analysis was conducted using data from 27 independent studies to investigate potential associations between trait co-variation of bryophytes and nitrogen deposition. The results revealed that interspecific variability regulates the influence of nitrogen deposition on bryophytes by affecting trait co-variation. Multiple correspondence analysis identified six combinations of closely related traits. For example, species with unbranched main stems frequently exhibit robust leaf midribs, leading to leaf wrinkling and leaf clasping around the stem as a response to water loss. Some weft or mat species tend to obtain resources (nitrogen) through their scale hairs on the main stem. Some species with narrow leaves require leaf teeth to maintain a normal leaf shape. The subgroup analyses indicated that certain traits, including unbranched main stem, changes in leaf morphology, robust leaf midrib, main stem without scale hairs, narrow leaf, leaf margin with teeth, undeveloped apophysis, and erect capsule minimize interaction with pollutants and represent a resource strategy. Conversely, functional traits representing a resource acquisition strategy, such as branched main stem, no changes in leaf morphology, short and weak leaf midrib, main stem with scale hairs, broad leaf, leaf margin without teeth, developed apophysis, and non-erect capsule increase pollutant exposure. Overall, our results suggest that anthropogenic global change may significantly impact bryophytes due to changes in their individual physiology and colony ecological indicators caused by increased nitrogen deposition.

Synergy of Single Atoms and Lewis Acid Sites for Efficient and Selective Lignin Disassembly into Monolignol Derivatives.

Lignin is the most abundant aromatic polymer from the natural and renewable lignocellulosic biomass resource. Developing highly efficient catalysts for lignin depolymerization to produce valuable monophenols with high yield and selectivity remains a desirable but challenging target in this field. Here, we design a synergistic catalyst combining atomically dispersed Mo centers and Al Lewis acid sites on a MgO substrate (Mo1Al/MgO) for the depolymerization of Eucalyptus lignin via the ß-aryl ether bond cleavage. A near-theoretical monophenol yield of 46% with an ultrahigh selectivity of 92% for coniferyl and sinapyl methyl ether, as well as good cycling durability, was achieved simultaneously by Mo1Al/MgO in an inert N2 atmosphere. First-principles calculations and control catalytic experiments confirmed the synergistic catalysis mechanism between Mo1-O5 single-atom centers and the neighboring Al Lewis acid sites with the participation of a methanol solvent. This study validates the feasibility of designing better-performing catalysts with synergistic multiactive sites for the efficient and selective disassembly of complex renewable biopolymers into highly value-added products with lower cost and greater security.

Targeted release of soybean peptide from CMC/PVA hydrogels in simulated intestinal fluid and their pharmacokinetics.

Carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC)/polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) hydrogels loaded with soybean peptide (SPE) were fabricated via a freeze-thaw method. These hydrogels conquer barriers in simulated gastric fluid (SGF), and then release SPE in simulated intestinal fluid (SIF). The results of in vitro SPE release from these hydrogels showed that in SGF only a little of the SPE released, but in SIF the SPE was completely released. The released SPE had scavenging rates for DPPH and ABTS free radicals of 41.68 and 31.43 %. The pharmacokinetic model of SPE release from the hydrogels in SIF was studied. When the hydrogels are moved from SGF to SIF, the sorption of the shrinkage hydrogel network is entirely controlled by stress-induced relaxations. There are swollen and shrunken regions during SPE release. For SPE release into the SIF, SPE has to be freed from the weak bonds in the swollen regions by changes in the conformation of CMC and PVA. The release rate of SPE was found to be governed by the diffusion and swelling rate of the shrinkage hydrogel network. The Korsmeyer-Peppas equation diffusion exponents (n) for SPE release from the hydrogels are >2.063, indicating a super case II transport. These data demonstrate CMC/PVA hydrogels have potential applications in oral peptide delivery.

Anxiolytic and antidepressant effects of agarwood inhalation and its mechanism / 中国中药杂志

This study used m-chloropheniperazine(MCPP) and chronic unforeseeable mild stress(CUMS) to induce the rat models of anxiety and depression, respectively. The behaviors of rats were observed by the open field test(OFT), light-dark exploration test(LDE), tail suspension test(TST), and forced swimming test(FST), and the antidepressant and anxiolytic effects of agarwood essential oil(AEO), agarwood fragrant powder(AFP), and agarwood line incense(ALI) were explored. The enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay(ELISA) was used to determine the levels of 5-hydroxytryptamine(5-HT), glutamic acid(Glu), and γ-aminobutyric acid(GABA_A) in the hippocampal area. The Western blot assay was used to determine the protein expression levels of glutamate receptor 1(GluR1) and vesicular glutamate transporter type 1(VGluT1), exploring the anxiolytic and antidepressant mechanism of agarwood inhalation. The results showed that compared with the anxiety model group, the AEO, AFP, and ALI groups decreased the total distance(P<0.05), decreased the velocity of movements(P<0.05), prolonged the immobile time(P<0.05), and reduced the distance and velocity of the rat model of anxiety in the dark box(P<0.05). Compared with the depression model group, the AEO, AFP, and ALI groups increased the total distance and average velocity(P<0.05), reduced the immobile time(P<0.05), and reduced the forced swimming and tail suspension time(P<0.05). In terms of transmitter regulation, the AEO, AFP, and ALI groups decreased the level of Glu in the rat model of anxiety(P<0.05) and increased the levels of GABA_A and 5-HT(P<0.05), while the AEO, AFP, and ALI groups all increased the level of 5-HT in the rat model of depression(P<0.05) and decreased the levels of GABA_A and Glu(P<0.05). At the same time, the AEO, AFP, and ALI groups all increased the protein expression levels of GluR1 and VGluT1 in the hippocampus of the rat models of anxiety and depression(P<0.05). In conclusion, AEO, AFP, and ALI exert anxiolytic and antidepressant effects, and the mechanism might be related to the regulation of the neurotransmitter and the protein expression of GluR1 and VGluT1 in the hippocampus.

Association Between Daily Executive Function and Core Symptoms， Attention Deficit-Hyperactivity Symptoms in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder / 中山大学学报(医学科学版)

ObjectiveTo explore the association between daily executive function and core symptoms， the symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder （ADHD） in children with autism spectrum disorder （ASD）， and the moderating effect of theory of mind and other cognitive abilities on this association. MethodsChildren aged 6-12 years with ASD were recruited， and 86 children were identified according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Wechsler Intelligence Test for Children， Fourth Edition （WISC-Ⅳ）， Strange Story Test （SST） and Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function （BRIEF） were used to evaluate children's cognitive ability. Swanson Nolan and Pelham-Version Ⅳ Scale （SNAP-Ⅳ）， Social Responsiveness Scale （SRS）， and Repetitive Behavior Scale-Revise （RBS-R） were used to assess the severity of ADHD symptoms， social impairment， and repetitive stereotyped behavior. Multiple linear regression was used to explore the association between daily executive function and ADHD symptoms， social impairment， repetitive stereotyped behaviors. ResultsAfter controlling for the score of strange stories， verbal comprehension index （VCI） and other factors， the full scale score and each index of BRIEF were positively correlated with full scale score of SNAP （b = 0.619-0.741， b’ = 0.637-0.755）， SRS （b = 0.928-1.200， b’ = 0.417-0.513） and RBS-R （b = 0.326-0.525， b’ = 0.339-0.520） in children with ASD （P< 0.05）， and the SNAP total score was more strongly correlated with the full scale BRIEF score and each index score （b’ = 0.637-0.755，P< 0.01）. In addition to daily executive function， strange stories score （b = -2.218- -1.839） and age （b = 3.181-4.037） were also the important factors affecting the social function of children with ASD （P< 0.01）. There were no moderating effects of strange stories score and age on the association between BRIEF score and full scale score of SNAP， SRS， and RBS-R（P> 0.05）. ConclusionThe deficits of daily executive function in school-aged ASD children are significantly associated with core symptoms and ADHD symptoms， and the association is independent of other cognitive domains， such as theory of mind and verbal comprehension intelligence quotient.

Analysis of electrophysiological characteristics and influencing factors of peripheral neuropathy in Parkinson's disease / 中华老年医学杂志

Objective:To analyze the electrophysiological characteristics and influencing factors of peripheral neuropathy in Parkinson's disease(PD)patients.Methods:Totally 68 PD patients and 30 controls were selected for neuroelectrophysiological evaluation, including items such as limb motor nerve terminal latency(LP)and amplitude and sensory nerve conduction velocity(SCV)and amplitude.Age, sex, serum folate, vitamin B 12, homocysteine and hemoglobin levels were also recorded for the two groups.The Hoehn-Yahr scale was used to assess patients and levodopa daily doses and levodopa equivalent daily doses were calculated.According to the criteria for neuroelectrophysiological abnormalities, 31 PD patients were found to have peripheral neuropathy and 37 PD patients did not have peripheral neuropathy. Results:In PD patients, a total of 952 peripheral nerves were examined, with 21.7% having motor nerve involvement(118/544)and 72.8%(297/of 408)having sensory nerve involvement.In the control group, a total of 420 peripheral nerves were examined, with 4.2%(10/240)having motor nerve involvement and 26.1%(47/180)having sensory nerve involvement.Compared with the control group, the wave amplitudes of motor nerve terminals were reduced in the PD group for the ulnar nerve( t=2.172/2.345, right/left), median nerve( t=2.104/2.543, right/left), and tibial nerve( t=2.340/2.444, right/left)(all P<0.05); compared with the control group, the wave amplitudes of sensory nerve terminals of the ulnar nerve( Z=3.535/3.439, right/ left), median nerve( Z=3.076/2.937, right/left), and peroneal nerve( Z=2.795/2.795, right/left)were all reduced in the PD group(all P<0.05); compared with the control group, sensory conduction velocities of the ulnar nerve( t=2.326/2.487, right/left), median nerve( t=3.269/2.386, right/left), and peroneal nerve( t=2.551/2.418, right/left)were prolonged(all P<0.05). The rate of abnormalities with the sensory nerve terminal wave amplitude( χ2=149.814, P<0.001)was higher than that of abnormalities with motor nerve terminal wave amplitude in PD patients; the rate of abnormalities with the sensory nerve terminal wave amplitude( χ2=58.364, P<0.001)was higher than that of abnormalities with sensory conduction velocities.Logistic regression analysis showed that increased folic acid( OR=0.825, 95% CI: 0.637-0.990)and vitamin B 12( OR=0.996, 95% CI: 0.991-1.000)were protective factors for PD peripheral neuropathy; H-Y score, levodopa daily dose( OR=1.009, 95% CI: 1.003-1.015), and increased homocysteine( OR=1.151, 95% CI: 1.041-1.273)were risk factors for PD peripheral neuropathy.After excluding confounding factors, H-Y classification( OR=3.213, 95% CI: 1.342-7.713)remained an independent risk factor for peripheral nerve injury in PD patients. Conclusions:In PD patients with peripheral neuropathy, both motor nerves and sensory nerves are involved, sensory nerves are more significantly involved, and axonal damage is more important than myelin loss; increased H-Y classification is an independent risk factor for peripheral nerve injury in PD patients.

Study on the Mechanism of Sugemule-4 Decoction in Treating Insomnia by LC-MS and Network Pharmacology / 世界科学技术-中医药现代化

Objective To rapidly identify and assign the chemical components in Sugemule-4 decoction by using UPLC Orbitrap Exploris MS/MS,and then conduct network pharmacological analysis,and clarify the anti-insomnia effect of Sugmule-4 decoction.Methods ACQUITY UPLC BEH C18(2.1 mm×100 mm,1.7 μm)Chromatographic column,with 0.1％formic acid aqueous solution(A)-0.1％formic acid acetonitrile solution(B)as mobile phase gradient elution.Flow rate:0.5 mL·min-1,injection volume:5 μL.Under the control of the control software(Xcalibur,Thermo Fisher Scientific),the primary and secondary mass spectrometry data are collected based on the FullScan-ddMS2 function.Combined with the self-built database and online database,the chemical components in Sugemule-4 decoction are identified by accurate relative molecular weight,fragment ion information,pyrolysis pattern and comparison of control samples.The identified chemical components were analyzed by network pharmacology,and the targets of drug and insomnia were obtained from TCMSP,SwissTargetPrediction,GeneCards,OMIM,TTD,DrugBank and DisGeNET databases respectively,and the intersection target was obtained;Protein interaction analysis was performed through STRING database.Use Metascape platform to analyze GO function and KEGG pathway,and predict the mechanism of Sugmule-4 decoction in treating insomnia.To determine the anti-insomnia effect of Sugmule-4 decoction,SD rats were divided into normal control group(K),model group(M),Sugmule-4 decoction group(S)and Anshenbunao liquid group(A).After chronic unpredictable mild stress and PCPA were used for modeling,the rats were given corresponding drugs by gavage for 7 days,then the open field text was conducted to observe the general state and behavioral changes,and detection of AChE,5-HT,and GABA levels in serum and brain tissue of rats in each group using ELISA method.Results 136 components were identified from Sugemule-4 decoction,including 37 terpenoids,34 alkaloids,26 flavonoids,20 phenylpropanoids,14 phenolic acids and 5 amino acids.The results of network pharmacology analysis show that the mechanism of Sugemule-4 decoction in treating insomnia is mainly achieved by its components such as Romucosine D,Nornantenine,Nuciferine,and(R)-ar Turbone acting on targets such as ACHE,ADORA2A,and CHRM1 through signal pathways such as Neuroactive ligand-receptor interaction,synaptic signaling,and trans synaptic signaling.This is a multi component-multi target-multi signal pathway joint implementation process.The results of pharmacodynamic experiment showed that Sugmule-4 decoction and Anshenbunao liquid could revise the general state and behavioral changes of insomnia model rats,increase the content of AChE,5-HT and GABA in serum(P<0.01).Conclusion This study comprehensively reflects the chemical components of Sugmule-4 decoction,and preliminarily summarizes the mass spectrum decomposition characteristics of various chemical components.The network pharmacology and pharmacodynamics experiments show that Sugmule-4 decoction has significant anti-insomnia effect,which provides a reference basis for the quality control and mechanism study of Sugmule-4 decoction.

Isolation and identification of dominant strains in the fermentation process of HuaFengDan YaoMu and investigation of their growth under different temperature and pH value / 中成药

AIM To isolate and identify the dominant strains in the fermentation process of the HuaFengDan YaoMu,and to investigate the effects of different temperatures and pH values upon their growth.METHODS During the 0-6 weeks fermentation process of HuaFengDan YaoMu in the selective medium,the cultured bacteria,the molds and the yeasts had the colonies counted,and the dominant strains isolated and purified,particularly the dominant bacteria and fungi determined by 16S rDNA and 26S rDNA sequences.The optimal growth temperature and pH value of Bacillus aryabhattai,Debaryomyces hansenii,Aspergillus oryzae were investigated respectively.RESULTS HuaFengDan YaoMu found its bacterial counts increased from 0 to 4 weeks and stabilized from 4 to 6 weeks;its yeast counts increased during 0-3 weeks,and decreased continuously during 4-6 weeks;and its mold counts remained unchanged at 0 week,but increased steadily from 1 to 4 weeks,and decreased at 5 to 6 weeks of the fermentation.In the fermentation process of HuaFengDan YaoMu,the dominant strains of Bacillus aryabhattai,Debaryomyces hansenii and Aspergillus oryzae,identified and screened out by the phylogenetic tree,adapted best to the growth temperature of 35℃,25-30℃and 35℃,at pH value of 8,6 and 7,respectively.CONCLUSION In the fermentation process of HuaFengDan YaoMu,the dominant microorganisms of Bacillus aryabhattai,Debaryomyces hansenii,Aspergillus oryzae are identifiable and separable.

Construction and empirical study of the evaluation index system for the reform of salary system in public hospitals / 中华医院管理杂志

Objective:To construct an evaluation index system for the reform of public hospital salary system and conduct empirical research, for reference in deepening the reform of public hospital salary system.Methods:Based on the building blocks of health systems and the Guiding Opinions on Pilot Work of Public Hospital Salary System Reform (Human Resources and Social Security Ministry 〔2017〕 No. 10), a preliminary index system was constructed. And the expert consultation method was used to determine the evaluation index system for public hospital salary system reform. The authors selected representative hospitals in Chaoyang district of Beijing with reform experiences of such salary system, and applied this index system for empirical research. Objective indexes were extracted from the hospital information system, which were used to evaluate relevant data before the reform (from 2016 to 2017) and after the reform (from 2018 to 2019); a questionnaire was customized based on the subjective indexes in the index system, which was used for a questionnaire survey on hospital staff, outpatient patients, and inpatients. A descriptive analysis was made on such indexes as hospital revenue and expenditure, medical expenses, salary levels, and satisfaction. The comparison of relevant data before and after the reform was conducted using one-way ANOVA. Results:This study constructed a public hospital salary system reform evaluation system, comprising 4 first-level indexes, 8 second-level indexes, and 38 third-level indexes. second-level indexes were salary level and structure, salary governance and information construction, health manpower and service provision, medical products and technology. There were 28 objective indexes and 10 subjective ones. The evaluation results of 4 representative public hospitals showed that the proportion of labor costs, hygiene materials income, treatment income, nursing income, and physician service fees to the total income increased as compared to that before the reform, with statistical significance ( P<0.05); The average medical expenses of discharged patients and the proportion of drug income (excluding traditional Chinese medicine slices) to total income decreased compared to that before the reform, and the difference was statistically significant ( P<0.05); The difference between the average medical expenses per outpatient visit and the proportion of surgical income to total income was not statistically significant ( P>0.05). There was no statistically significant difference in salary levels among employees of different genders, seniority, and educational backgrounds ( P>0.05). On the other hand, there was a statistically significant difference in salary levels among employees of different ages, majors, professional and technical titles, and employment types ( P<0.05). The actual salary of 636 employee was only 56.26% of the expected salary, and their total score of salary satisfaction was (3.33 ± 0.86) points. The scores of public service motivation, medical service quality, and job satisfaction were (3.52 ± 0.78) points, (3.91 ± 0.77) points, and (3.72 ± 0.65) points, respectively. The satisfaction scores of outpatient and inpatient patients were (4.64 ± 0.23) and (4.82 ± 0.45), respectively. Conclusions:The evaluation system for the reform of the salary system in public hospitals constructed in this study can comprehensively evaluate the effectiveness of hospital reform from a multidimensional perspective, combining quantitative and qualitative, subjective and objective aspects. It proves scientific and practical.

Genome-wide identification of bZIP family genes and screening of candidate AarbZIPs involved in terpenoid biosynthesis in Artemisia argyi / 中国中药杂志

Artemisia argyi is an important medicinal and economic plant in China, with the effects of warming channels, dispersing cold, and relieving pain, inflammation, and allergy. The essential oil of this plant is rich in volatile terpenoids and widely used in moxi-bustion and healthcare products, with huge market potential. The bZIP transcription factors compose a large family in plants and are involved in the regulation of plant growth and development, stress response, and biosynthesis of secondary metabolites such as terpenoids. However, little is known about the bZIPs and their roles in A. argyi. In this study, the bZIP transcription factors in the genome of A. argyi were systematically identified, and their physicochemical properties, phylogenetic relationship, conserved motifs, and promoter-binding elements were analyzed. Candidate AarbZIP genes involved in terpenoid biosynthesis were screened out. The results showed that a total of 156 AarbZIP transcription factors were identified at the genomic level, with the lengths of 99-618 aa, the molecular weights of 11.7-67.8 kDa, and the theoretical isoelectric points of 4.56-10.16. According to the classification of bZIPs in Arabidopsis thaliana, the 156 AarbZIPs were classified into 12 subfamilies, and the members in the same subfamily had similar conserved motifs. The cis-acting elements of promoters showed that AarbZIP genes were possibly involved in light and hormonal pathways. Five AarbZIP genes that may be involved in the regulation of terpenoid biosynthesis were screened out by homologous alignment and phylogenetic analysis. The qRT-PCR results showed that the expression levels of the five AarbZIP genes varied significantly in different tissues of A. argyi. Specifically, AarbZIP29 and AarbZIP55 were highly expressed in the leaves and AarbZIP81, AarbZIP130, and AarbZIP150 in the flower buds. This study lays a foundation for the functional study of bZIP genes and their regulatory roles in the terpenoid biosynthesis in A. argyi.

Puerarin inhibits inflammation and lipid accumulation in alcoholic liver disease through regulating MMP8 / 中国天然药物

Alcoholic liver disease (ALD) is a growing global health concern, and its early pathogenesis includes steatosis and steatohepatitis. Inhibiting lipid accumulation and inflammation is a crucial step in relieving ALD. Evidence shows that puerarin (Pue), an isoflavone isolated from Pueraria lobata, exerts cardio-protective, neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant activities. However, the therapeutic potential of Pue on ALD remains unknown. In the study, both the NIAAA model and ethanol (EtOH)-induced AML-12 cell were used to explore the protective effect of Pue on alcoholic liver injury in vivo and in vitro and related mechanism. The results showed that Pue (100 mg·kg-1) attenuated EtOH-induced liver injury and inhibited the levels of SREBP-1c, TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-1β, compared with silymarin (Sil, 100 mg·kg-1). In vitro results were consistent within vivo results. Mechanistically, Pue might suppress liver lipid accumulation and inflammation by regulating MMP8. In conclusion, Pue might be a promising clinical candidate for ALD treatment.

Isolation, Characterization, and Depolymerization of l-Cysteine Substituted Eucalyptus Lignin.

Lignin condensation reactions are hard to avoid or control during separation, which is a deterrent to lignin isolation and post-conversation, especially for the full utilization of lignocelluloses. Selective protection of ß-aryl ether linkages in the isolation process is crucial to lignin valorization. Herein, a two-step acid/alkali separation method assisted with l-cysteine for eucalyptus lignin separation is developed, and the isolated l-cysteine lignins (LCLs) are comprehensively characterized by 2D NMR, 31P NMR, thioacidolysis, etc. Compared to the two-step control treatment, a much higher ß-O-4 content is preserved without reducing the separation efficiency assisted by l-cysteine, which is also significantly higher than alkali lignin and kraft lignin. The results of hydrogenolysis show that LCLs generate a much higher monomer yield than that of control sample. Structural analysis of LCLs suggests that lignin condensation reaction, to some extent, is suppressed by adding l-cysteine during the two-step acid/alkali separation. Further, mechanistic studies using dimeric model compound reveals that l-cysteine may be the α-carbon protective agent in the two-step separation. The role of l-cysteine in the two-step lignin isolation method provides novel insights to the selective fractionation of lignin from biomass, especially for the full valorization of lignocellulosic biomass.

Identification of Andrographis Herba and its common products using mini-barcode / 中国天然药物

Andrographis Herba, the aerial part of Andrographis paniculata (Burm. f.) Wall. ex Nees (Acanthaceae), has a wide geographic distribution and has been used for the treatment of fever, cold, inflammation, and other infectious diseases. In markets, sellers and buyers commonly inadvertently confuse with related species. In addition, most Chinese medicinal herbs are subjected to traditional processing procedures, such as steaming and boiling, before they are sold at dispensaries; therefore, it is very difficult to identify Andrographis Herba when it is processed into Chinese medicines. The identification of species and processed medicinal materials is a growing issue in the marketplace. However, conventional methods of identification have limitations, while DNA barcoding has received considerable attention as a new potential means to identify species and processed medicinal materials. In this study, 17 standard reference materials of A. paniculata, 2 standard decoctions, 27 commercial products and two adulterants were collected. Based on the ITS2 sequence, it could successfully identify A. paniculata and adulterants. Moreover, a nucleotide signature consisting of 71 bp was designed, this sequence is highly conserved and specific within A. paniculata while divergent among other species. Then, we used these new primers to amplify the nucleotide signature region from processed materials. In conclusion, the DNA barcoding method developed in the present study for authenticating A. paniculata is rapid and cost-effective. It can be used in the future to guarantee the quality of Andrographis Herba of each regulatory link for clinical use.

Screening of reference genes for quantitative real-time PCR in Artemisia argyi / 中国中药杂志

Artemisia Argyi Folium, a traditional Chinese medicine of important medicinal and economic value, sees increasing demand in medicinal and moxibustion product market. Screening stable and reliable reference genes for quantitative real-time PCR(qRT-PCR) is a prerequisite for the analysis of gene expression in Artemisia argyi. In this study, eight commonly used reference genes, Actin, 18s, EF-1α, GAPDH, SAND, PAL, TUA, and TUB, from the transcriptome of A. argyi, were selected as candidate genes. The expression of each gene in different tissues(roots, stems, and leaves) of A. argyi and in leaves of A. argyi after treatment with methyl jasmonate(MeJA) for different time(0, 4, 8, 12 h) was detected by qRT-PCR. Then, geNorm, NormFinder, BestKeeper, ΔCT, and RefFinder were employed to evaluate their expression stability. The results demonstrated that Actin was the most stable reference gene in different tissues and in leaves treated with MeJA, and coming in the second was SAND. Furthermore, the expression of DXS and MCT which are involved in terpenoid backbone biosynthesis was detected in different tissues and after MeJA treatment. The results showed that the expression patterns of DXS and MCT in different tissues and under MeJA treatment calculated with Actin and SAND as internal reference genes were consistent, which validated the screening results. In conclusion, Actin is the most suitable reference gene for the analysis of gene expression in different tissues of A. argyi and after MeJA treatment. This study provides valuable information for gene expression analysis in A. argyi and lays a foundation for further research on molecular mechanism of quality formation of Artemisia Argyi Folium.

Development and application of blood donor role identity scale (BDRIS) / 中国输血杂志

【Objective】 To further determine the relationship between blood donor role cognition and blood donation behavior, then prepare of blood donor role identity scale(BDRIS). 【Methods】 The preparation of the scale was divided into five stages. It includes literature retrieval, expert interview, construction of the basic framework of the scale, scale test and statistical index test. The study focused on items selection, dimensions identification, measurement reliability, content and structural validity. 【Results】 The blood donor role identity scale consisted of 35 items. Exploratory factor analysis divided the items into six common factors, including role identity, role expectation, current situation of blood collection and supply, role conflict, external reward and blood donation experience. The α of scale was 0.840. 【Conclusion】 The reliability and validity of the scale meet the basic measurement requirements, and the framework of the blood donor role scale is basically formed. It can be used as one of the means to explore the ways and mechanisms of the role identity of blood donors in blood donation behavior.

Green approach to produce xylo-oligosaccharides and glucose by mechanical-hydrothermal pretreatment.

A pretreatment method combining ball-milling, ultrasound, and hydrothermal treatment was developed to produce xylooligosaccharides (XOS) and glucose with a high yield from corn stover. Under optimal conditions, the yield of XOS reached 80.40%, and the functional XOS (X2-X4) took up to 26.97%. Small amount of inhibitors were formed during the hydrothermal process. Enzymatic hydrolysis of the hydrothermally pretreated residue gave 92.60% yield of glucose, leaving lignin as the final residue which accounted for 66.82% of native lignin. The correlations between the yield of glucose and the physio-chemical properties of corn stover, such as crystalline index, particle size, and the removal of xylan, were established to understand the recalcitrance removal during the pretreatment process. Results demonstrate that this combined pretreatment method is a green and effective process to selectively separate the hemicellulose fractions and improve both production of XOS and glucose yield.

Predictive value of neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio in 90-day risk of death in patients with cardioembolic stroke / 中风与神经疾病杂志

@#Objective　To explore the predictive value of neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (NLR) on the 90 day mortality risk of patients with cardiogenic cerebral embolism (CE).Methods　245 patients with cardiogenic cerebral embolism were analyzed retrospectively.Demographic data,vascular risk factors,laboratory tests and end point events were collected.The patients were divided into survival group and death group according to whether or not there were end-point events.Multifactor logistic regression was used to analyze the influencing factors of endpoint events,to draw ROC curve,and to evaluate the predictive value of NLR on endpoint events.Results　Of the 245 cases included in the analysis,145 survived and 100 died.Compared with the survivors,the age,hyperlipidemia,atrial fibrillation,mRS score,white blood cell count,glutathione aminotransferase and neutrophil score in the death group were significantly higher (P<0.01),and there was no significant difference in gender,hypertension,diabetes,family history,smoking,alcohol consumption,red blood cell count,hemoglobin and other blood indicators between the two groups(P>0.05).Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that age,atrial fibrillation,hyperlipidemia and NLR were independent risk factors for 90-day death.ROC shows AUC=0.7558.When the optimal cutoff value of NLR was 5.65,the sensitivity was 68.0%,and the specificity was 76.6%.Conclusion　The increase of NLR at admission is a high risk factor for 90 day death in patients with cardiogenic cerebral infarction,and it has a good predictive value for 90 day death.

Analysis of influencing factors of fatigue in Parkinson’s disease / 中风与神经疾病杂志

@#To analyze the influencing factors and clinical significance of fatigue in patients with Parkinson’s disease（PD）. Methods 155 patients with PD were selected from the Department of Neurology of the Second Affiliated Hospital of Baotou Medical College from January 2019 to December 2020.According to the fatigue severity scale（FSS），59 patients in the PD non fatigue group（FSS>4 points） and 96 patients in the PD fatigue group（FSS≤4 points）. Unified Parkinson’s disease rating scale Part III（MDS-UPDRS Ⅲ）、Hoehn-Yahr（H-Y）、Hamilton Depression Scale（HAMA）17，Hamilton Anxiety Scale（HAMD）14,Parkinson’s disease Sleep Scale（PDSS） Chinese version，simple mental state scale and so on. The physical fatigue and mental fatigue of PD patients were scored by fatigue Scale-14（fs-14）. The total scores of tremor items and postural abnormalities gait disorders were calculated according to the items of MDS UPDRS Ⅱ～Ⅲ. Results Compared with the non fatigue group，the mds-updrs Ⅲ，H-Y score，HAMA，HAMD and course of disease in the fatigue group were increased，and the PDSS was decreased（P<0.05）. Mds-updrs Ⅲ score（OR=1.105，P=0.011） and depression（OR=1.160，P=0.028） were independent risk factors for fatigue. Mental fatigue was positively and strongly correlated with HAMD（rs=0.792）；physical fatigue was positively and strongly correlated with mds-updrs Ⅲ（rs=0.645），total score of postural abnormalities gait disorders（rs=0.659），HAMA（rs=0.654） and H-Y score（rs=0.674），which was positively and strongly correlated with PDSS（rs=-0.674） negative strong correlation. Conclusion The incidence rate of fatigue in PD patients is high，and is associated with motor symptoms，sleep disorders，anxiety and depression.