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Appropriate hapten design and synthesis have been identified as critical steps to generate high-performance immunoreagents and to develop sensitive and selective immunoanalytical methods. Antibodies and immunoassays for the major mycotoxin zearalenone have been reported and marketed. However, zearalenone haptens have mostly been prepared by the oxime active ester technique, and hapten characterization has generally been poor or non-existent. In the present study, novel haptens of zearalenone with longer linkers and with alternative tethering sites have been designed for immunizing and assay conjugate preparation. All of these molecules were purified and spectroscopically verified, and a structure-activity relationship evaluation was carried out. This approach revealed that the hapten with the linker at the carbonyl group generated antibodies with a higher affinity than the hapten functionalized at the phenyl moiety. Antibodies produced with the latter hapten, on the other hand, showed lower cross-reactivity values to the major zearalenone metabolites. Finally, similar immunoassay sensitivity was achieved with all of the antibodies when heterologous haptens were employed. Furthermore, by altering the structure of the competing antigen, the immunoassay selectivity was modified. These results demonstrate that immunochemical methods for zearalenone rapid analysis can still be improved in terms of sensitivity and selectivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alternariol is a toxic secondary metabolite produced by Alternaria fungi. Nowadays, this mycotoxin can be found in many products of plant origin at concerning concentrations. The aim of the present study was to develop a highly sensitive and selective immunochemical method for the analysis of alternariol. To this end, hapten synthesis was carried out from the scratch and specific high-affinity monoclonal antibodies to alternariol were generated by using, for the first time, alternariol bioconjugates with unambiguous linker tethering sites. A novel indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay that incorporated a rationally designed heterologous conjugate was developed. The optimized assay showed an outstanding half-maximal inhibition concentration for alternariol below 0.04 ng/mL, and no cross-reactivity with alternariol monomethyl ether was observed. Very good recovery values and coefficients of variation were obtained from the analysis of alternariol-fortified fruit and cereal flour samples. Finally, alternariol was quantitatively determined in pears that had been previously infected with Alternaria alternata , showing excellent correlation with liquid chromatography results. [Display omitted] • A novel hapten with the linker at C-1 was designed for the mycotoxin alternariol. • Specific, high-affinity monoclonal antibodies to alternariol were generated. • A heterologous immunoassay was optimized for alternariol analysis. • The LOQ was 1 ng/mL for oats and buckwheat flour and 10 ng/mL for pears. • The immunoassay was statistically validated using pears infected with Alternaria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, a second generation of succinate-dehydrogenase-inhibitor (SDHI) fungicides has been introduced into the market for effective treatment of fruit and vegetable crops, with fluxapyroxad, boscalid, fluopyram, penflufen, bixafen, penthiopyrad, and isopyrazam being some of the members of this new class of agrochemical. We herein report the development of an analytical procedure for the determination of residues of these SDHI fungicides in food samples, based on a modification of the QuEChERS extraction method followed by ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled to tandem-mass-spectrometry determination. The proposed method reached limits of detection from 0.8 to 2.0 μg L−1. Apple, strawberry, tomato, and spinach samples were used as model samples. Spiked samples, from 10 to 1000 μg kg−1, were analysed by the proposed method and quantitative recoveries were obtained (from 81 to 115 % for apples, from 84 to 136 % for strawberries, from 84 to 135 % for tomatoes, and from 80 to 136 % for spinach), with precision better than 20 % in all cases. Thus, the proposed method can be used for the analysis of SDHI fungicide residues to efficiently ensure that marketed fruits and vegetables comply with the maximum residue levels established by competent authorities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Haptens, bioconjugates, and antibodies for highly sensitive immunochemical analysis of the new-generation fungicide penthiopyrad are described. Two haptens with equivalent carboxylated linkers were prepared, and the purified active esters were efficiently coupled to proteins. The results revealed slightly different antibody-eliciting capacities for the two synthetic derivatives. All of the produced antibodies were specific for penthiopyrad, and showed affinity values in the nanomolar range. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Quantum dots (QDs) are semiconductor nanoparticles with very interesting optical properties, like high quantum yield or narrow and size-tuneable fluorescence spectra. Current applications of QDs are widespread, their use as fluorescence labels in bioassays being one of the most promising. These nanoparticles are usually conjugated to highly specific biomolecules like antibodies, oligonucleotides, enzymes or aptamers to improve assay selectivity. In this review, QD surface passivation, conjugation to biomolecules, and purification strategies are discussed with special emphasis to the development of QD-based immunoassays for the detection of low molecular weight compounds given the relevance of this sort of analytes in health, food safety, pharmaceutical, or environmental monitoring areas. The aim of this review is to summarise the main achievements attained so far and to initialise researchers in the field of antibody-based assays employing QDs as labels, such as fluorescence-linked immunosorbent assay (FLISA), fluorescence (or Förster) resonance energy transfer (FRET), immunochromatographic methods, and immunosensors. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Boscalid is a modern, broad-spectrum carboxamide pesticide highly efficient against most fungal diseases affecting valuable crops. In this study, a boscalid-mimicking derivative with a six-carbon spacer arm replacing the chlorine atom at the pyridine ring of the target molecule was synthesized and coupled to carrier proteins. Following rabbit immunization, antibodies against this agrochemical were obtained for the first time, and they were characterised in terms of affinity and specificity, tolerance to solvents, and robustness to changes in buffer pH and ionic strength, using two assay formats. Both of the optimised immunoassays showed limits of detection below 0.1μg/L. Moreover, matrix effects of grape, peach, apple, and tomato juices were evaluated. Finally, a simple and easy procedure was set up for boscalid determination with spiked samples, affording limits of quantification of 10μg/L, a value well below the sensitivity levels required for monitoring campaigns of pesticide residue analysis in food. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Fenhexamid is a new-generation agrochemical extensively used nowadays to protect high valuable crops and fruits from fungus attacks. In this paper, the development of an indirect competitive immunoassay for the determination of fenhexamid residues in fruit samples is described. After optimisation of immunoreagent concentrations, the assay, based on monoclonal antibody FHo4#27, showed high sensitivity, and selectivity, with a limit of detection for fenhexamid standards in buffer of 0.04μg/L. The influence of several physico-chemical factors, including pH, ionic strength, solvent tolerance, and matrix interferences on the analytical parameters of the standard curve was studied. For spiked liquid food samples like grape must, just a direct 1:50 dilution in water was sufficient to attain recoveries between 100% and 110%. For kiwifruit and strawberry samples, a double extraction procedure with methanol is proposed in this study, which afforded recovery values that ranged between 103% and 116%. The limit of quantification of the developed assay was 5μg/kg for grape must, 10μg/kg for kiwifruits, and 25μg/kg for strawberries. The optimised assay was compared with a reference procedure based on liquid chromatography using incurred samples from the market, and an excellent correlation between both methods was found. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Immunoassays are nowadays being employed for rapid contaminant analysis in clinical, environmental, and agrochemical samples. A thorough characterization of the antibody‒antigen interaction can bring light to the immunoreagent selection process in order to develop sensitive and robust tests. Thus, determination of equilibrium and reaction rate constants is usually recommendable. However, this can be quite tricky for low molecular weight compounds, and competitive strategies are commonly followed to estimate apparent affinity values. In the present study, a collection of monoclonal antibodies to penthiopyrad was raised for the first time, and apparent equilibrium constants were assessed by the Langmuir model using three different competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay formats. The obtained K D values from antibody-coated assays were quite close to the corresponding K D values calculated from surface plasmon resonance (SPR) evaluation. These studies were employed to select a pair of immunoreagents for immunoassay development. The K D value for penthiopyrad of the selected antibody obtained by SPR was 0.28 nM. The optimized direct assay showed an IC 50 value for penthiopyrad of 0.42 nM (0.15 ng mL−1) in buffer. The limit of quantification for grape, must, and wine samples was 10 ng mL−1. An excellent correlation was found when immunochemical results were compared with those from LC-MS/MS. As an application case, it was determined that 58% of penthiopyrad was still found in wine after fermentation. Image 1 • The first monoclonal antibodies to penthiopyrad are herein reported. • Antibody-antigen reaction rate constants were determined by SPR. • Thermodynamic constants were estimated by different formats of competitive ELISA. • ELISA IC 50 values approach K D values under limiting immunoreagent concentrations. • A direct immunoassay was validated to measure penthiopyrad in grapes and wine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spirotetramat is employed worldwide to fight insect pests due to its high efficiency. This chemical is quickly metabolized by plants into spirotetramat-enol, so current regulations establish that both compounds must be determined in foodstuffs for monitoring purposes. Nowadays, immunochemical methods constitute rapid and cost-effective strategies for chemical contaminant analysis at trace levels. However, high-affinity binders and suitable bioconjugates are required. In this study, haptens with opposite functionalisation sites were synthesized in order to generate high-affinity monoclonal antibodies. A direct competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay with an IC50 value for the sum of spirotetramat and spirotetramat-enol of 0.1 μg/L was developed using selected antibodies and a novel heterologous bioconjugate carrying a rationally-designed hapten. Studies with fortified grape, grape juice, and wine samples showed good precision and accuracy values, with limits of quantification well below the maximum residue limits. Excellent correlation of results was observed with a standard reference chromatographic method. As a step forward, a lateral flow immunoassay was developed for onsite screening analysis of spirotetramat in wine. This assay was successfully validated according to Regulation 519/2014/EU for semi-quantitative methods at concentrations in line with the legal levels of spirotetramat and spirotetramat-enol in grapes, with a satisfactory false suspect rate below 2%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the original publication [[1]], Scheme 1 and Scheme 2 are misplaced due to mistakes in the publication process. Graph: Scheme 2 Synthesis of AL b -NHS ester. The correct schemes should be as follows: Graph: Scheme 1 Synthesis of AL a -NHS ester. [Extracted from the article]

Abstract In 2013, quinoxyfen was included in the list of priority hazard pollutants of the European Water Framework Directive due to its toxicity to aquatic organisms. However, few analytical methods for the analysis of this fungicide have been reported and no rapid immunochemical methods have been published so far. In the present study, immunoreagents for quinoxyfen analysis were generated for the first time and an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was developed. Two carboxylated derivatives of quinoxyfen were designed on the basis of the minimum energy conformation of the target compound. Active esters of those novel compounds were prepared using N , N ′-disuccinimidyl carbonate, and purified for covalent coupling to proteins. Matrix-assisted laser desorption mass spectrometry of the prepared bioconjugates showed optimum hapten-to-protein molar ratios. Moreover, high-affinity antibodies specific of quinoxyfen were raised. As proof of concept, an immunoassay was evaluated using a heterologous conjugate, which afforded sensitivity values in the low nanomolar range. Moreover, excellent recoveries and coefficients of variation were obtained from the analysis of environmental water samples fortified with quinoxyfen. A limit of quantification of 60 μg/L was determined. The prepared bioconjugates and antibodies could be valuable immunoreagents for the development of a variety of rapid immunosensors for quinoxyfen determination in environmental samples. Graphical abstract Image 1 Highlights • Quinoxyfen is a priority hazard pollutant in the European Water Framework Directive. • Functionalized derivatives were synthesized for covalent conjugation to proteins. • Bioconjugates and high-affinity antibodies specific of quinoxyfen were prepared. • A sensitive immunoassay (LOQ = 60 μg/L) was optimized and developed. • Precision and accuracy of the method were verified with environmental water samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Different highly selective sorbents have been evaluated for the treatment of food and biological samples to determine chloramphenicol residues by ion mobility spectrometry (IMS). Combination of a selective solid-phase extraction (SPE) and dispersive liquid-liquid microextraction allowed a highly sensitive determination of chloramphenicol in water, milk, honey, and urine samples. The performance of selective SPE supports such as immunoaffinity chromatography (IAC) and molecular imprinted polymers (MIP) have been compared in terms of selectivity, sensitivity, trueness, precision, and reusability. Quantitative recoveries were obtained for chloramphenicol residues, ranging from 91 to 123 % for water, from 99 to 120 % for skimmed milk, and from 95 to 124 % for urine using IAC-IMS and MIP-IMS methods. Quantitative recoveries (from 88 to 104 %) were also achieved for honey samples using IAC-IMS, but low recoveries were obtained using MIP-IMS. The limit of quantification was set at 0.1 μg L which is lower than the minimum required performance limit established by the EU. The proposed methodology is a simple and cost affordable alternative to chromatography methods for the highly sensitive and selective analysis of chloramphenicol residues in food and urine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The extreme specificity of immunoaffinity chromatography (IAC) columns coupled to the high sensitivity of ion mobility spectrometry (IMS) measurements makes this combination really useful for rapid, selective, and sensitive determination of a high variety of analytes in different samples. The capabilities of the IAC-IMS coupling have been highlighted under three different scenarios: (i) multiclass residue analysis using a single IAC column, (ii) multiclass residue analysis using stacked IAC columns, and (iii) isomer analysis. In the first case, the determination of three strobilurin fungicides – azoxystrobin, picoxystrobin, and pyraclostrobin – in water and strawberry juice was considered, obtaining limits of quantification (LOQs) from 11 to 63 μg L −1 . Recoveries from 96 to 106% for water, and from 67 to 104% for strawberry juice were obtained. In the second case, anilinopyrimidine compounds, including two analytes with similar drift time, were selectively retained in different IAC columns and analyzed after independent elution in commercial wine samples by IMS. LOQ values of 16, 14 and 12 μg L −1 were obtained for pyrimethanil, mepanipyrim, and cyprodinil, respectively. The obtained recoveries for wine samples spiked with 25 and 100 μg L −1 were from 82 to 123%. Additionally, the stacked IAC columns concept was applied to the separation of Z and E isomers of azoxystrobin that were selectively retained in specific IAC columns and quantified by IMS. Recoveries between 91 and 94% were obtained for both isomers in water samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: This paper describes the original synthesis of a functionalized derivative of the fungicide picoxystrobin and the generation of the first reported monoclonal antibodies against this strobilurin pesticide. The synthetic hapten was prepared by total synthesis from commercial chemicals and incorporating the spacer arm through a carbon–carbon single bond. Also, to obtain the immunogen, an uncommon hapten activation strategy based on N,N′-disuccinimidyl carbonate was employed, affording high activation yields and clean and reproducible coupling results. With these immunoreagents, two enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs) were developed: a competitive one-step assay using the antibody-coated direct ELISA format and a competitive two-step assay with the conjugate-coated indirect ELISA procedure. Both immunoassays were characterized in terms of sensitivity, selectivity, tolerance to solvents and matrix effects, achieving limits of detection below 0.2μgL−1. The optimized assays were used for the determination of picoxystrobin residues in beer, with recovery values ranging between 90 and 121% for the direct assay and from 79 to 122% for the indirect assay. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Immunochemical methods for mycotoxin analysis require antigens with well-defined structures and antibodies with outstanding binding properties. Immunoreagents for the mycotoxins alternariol and/or alternariol monomethyl ether have typically been obtained with chemically uncharacterized haptens, and antigen conjugates have most likely been prepared with mixtures of functionalized molecules. For the first time, total synthesis was performed, in the present study, to obtain two haptens with opposite linker attachment locations. The functionalized synthetic haptens were purified and deeply characterized by different spectrometric methods, allowing the preparation of bioconjugates with unequivocal structures. Direct and indirect competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays, using homologous and heterologous conjugates, were employed to extensively evaluate the generated immunoreagents. Antibodies with high affinity were raised from conjugates of both haptens, and a structure-activity relationship between the synthetic haptens and the specificity of the generated antibodies could be established. These results pave the way for the development of novel highly sensitive immunoassays selective of one or two of these Alternaria mycotoxins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mycotoxins represent a major concern for human and animal health because of their harmful effects and high occurrence in food and feed. Rapid immunoanalytical methods greatly contribute to strengthening the safety of our food supply by efficiently monitoring chemical contaminants, so high-affinity and specific antibodies have been generated for almost all internationally regulated mycotoxins. The only exception is patulin, a mycotoxin mainly produced by Penicillium expansum for which such a target has not yet been achieved. Accordingly, no point-of-need tests commonly used in food immunodiagnostics are commercially available for patulin. In the present study, three functionalized derivatives conforming to generally accepted rules in hapten design were firstly tested to generate suitable antibodies for the sensitive immunodetection of patulin. However, these conventional bioconjugates were unable to elicit the desired immune response, so an alternative strategy that takes advantage of the high electrophilic reactivity of patulin was explored. Patulin was reacted with 4-bromothiophenol, and the obtained adduct was used to produce antibodies with nanomolar affinity values. These results demonstrated for the first time that targeting the adduct resulting from the reaction of patulin with a thiol-containing compound is a promising approach for developing user-friendly immunoanalytical techniques for this elusive mycotoxin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • A novel alternariol hapten was designed for heterologous immunoassay development. • Two quick immunoassays were optimized for alternariol analysis in fruit juices. • The direct cELISA could determine alternariol at trace levels in 25 min. • The lateral-flow assay allowed alternariol detection at 4 ng/mL in 15 min. Alternariol is an emerging mycotoxin that may be present in many foods at relatively high concentrations. Therefore, sensitive analytical methods are needed to reduce human exposure to this secondary fungal metabolite. The aim of the present study was to develop alternative immunochemical methods for the rapid analysis of alternariol using novel homemade monoclonal antibodies. In this study, a direct competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay for alternariol is reported for the first time, with an IC 50 value and a detection limit of 0.020 ng/mL and 0.004 ng/mL, respectively. Under the optimized immunoassay conditions, alternariol could be accurately and precisely quantified in fruit juice samples in only 25 min. In addition, a nanoparticle-based lateral-flow immunochromatography assay with an IC 50 value and a visual detection limit of 0.24 ng/mL and 1 ng/mL, respectively, was developed. This immunoassay was validated according to European guidelines for portable semiquantitative analytical methods. Thus, juice samples with alternariol levels above 4 ng/mL were detected by this rapid method in only 15 min, with a negligible false suspect rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A direct competitive immunosensor for the electrochemical determination of Imidacloprid (IMD) pesticide on gold nanoparticle-modified screen-printed carbon electrodes (AuNP-SPCE) is here reported for the first time. Self-obtained specific monoclonal antibodies are immobilized on the AuNP-SPCE taking advantage of the AuNPs biofunctionalization abilities. In our biosensor design, free IMD in the sample competes with IMD conjugated with horseradish peroxidase (IMD-HRP) for the recognition by the antibodies. After that, 3,3′,5,5′-Tetramethylbenzidine (TMB) is enzymatically oxidized by HRP, followed by the oxidized TMB reduction back at the surface of the SPCE. This process gives an associated catalytic current (analytical signal) that is inversely proportional to the IMD amount. The main parameters affecting the analytical signal have been optimized, reaching a good precision (repeatability with a RSD of 6%), accuracy (relative error of 6%), stability (up to one month), selectivity and an excellent limit of detection (LOD of 22 pmol L−1), below the maximum levels allowed by the legislation, with a wide response range (50–10000 pmol L−1). The detection through antibodies also allows to have an excellent selectivity against other pesticides potentially present in real samples. Low matrix effects were found when analysing IMD in tap water and watermelon samples. The electrochemical immunosensor was also validated with HPLC-MS/MS, the reference method used in official laboratories for IMD analysis, through statistical tests. Our findings make the electrochemical immunosensor as an outstanding method for the rapid and sensitive determination of IMD at the point-of-use. Image 1 • Direct competitive immunosensor for electrochemical determination of IMD pesticide reported for the first time. • Self-obtained monoclonal antibodies are immobilized on AuNP-SPCE taking advantage of the AuNPs biofunctionalization abilities. • Excellent range of response, limit of detection, repeatability, accuracy, selectivity, long-term stability and low matrix effects. • Biosensor results are validated by HPLC-MS/MS analysis. • Outstanding method for rapid and sensitive determination of IMD at the point-of-use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Fluopyram regioisomeric haptens with opposite linker tethering sites were used. • High-affinity monoclonal antibodies to fluopyram were generated for the first time. • Two ELISAs were optimized for fluopyram analysis with LOD values below 0.05 µg L−1. • Immunoassay performance was verified in plum, grape, must, and wine samples. • Immunochemical results were validated with LC-MS using contaminated samples. Abstract Monoclonal antibody-based techniques have become a useful analytical technology in the agro-food sector. Nowadays, residues of the recently registered fungicide fluopyram are increasingly being found in quality control programs. In the present study, novel chemical derivatives of this pesticide were prepared and specific and high-affinity monoclonal antibodies to fluopyram were raised for the first time. Moreover, immunoassays to fluopyram were developed in two alternative enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay formats, using homologous and heterologous assay conjugates, with limits of detection below 0.05 µg L−1. The optimized immunoassays were applied to the analysis of fluopyram in fortified plums and grapes of four different varieties as well as in in-house prepared musts and wines. Recoveries were between 76.3% and 109.6% and coefficients of variation were below 20%. Quantification limits were well below the maximum residue limits. Immunoassay performance was statistically validated with a reference chromatographic technique using samples from fluopyram-treated plum and grape cultivars. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Early warning systems for monitoring toxic events may benefit from the availability of monoclonal antibodies enabling the sensitive and specific detection of anatoxin‐a, a cyanotoxin involved in numerous cases of animal poisoning resulting from toxic algal blooms in freshwaters. Through the synthesis of three functionalized derivatives of anatoxin‐a, we have succeeded in generating the first‐ever reported immunoreagents (bioconjugates and antibodies) suitable for the development of immunoanalytical approaches aimed at rapid and onsite detection of this harmful cyanotoxin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Early warning systems for monitoring toxic events may benefit from the availability of monoclonal antibodies enabling the sensitive and specific detection of anatoxin‐a, a cyanotoxin involved in numerous cases of animal poisoning resulting from toxic algal blooms in freshwaters. Through the synthesis of three functionalized derivatives of anatoxin‐a, we have succeeded in generating the first‐ever reported immunoreagents (bioconjugates and antibodies) suitable for the development of immunoanalytical approaches aimed at rapid and onsite detection of this harmful cyanotoxin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Early warning systems for monitoring toxic events may benefit from the availability of monoclonal antibodies enabling the sensitive and specific detection of anatoxin‐a, a cyanotoxin involved in numerous cases of animal poisoning resulting from toxic algal blooms in freshwaters. Through the synthesis of three functionalized derivatives of anatoxin‐a, we have succeeded in generating the first‐ever reported immunoreagents (bioconjugates and antibodies) suitable for the development of immunoanalytical approaches aimed at rapid and onsite detection of this harmful cyanotoxin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nowadays, instrumental methodologies and rapid bioanalytical techniques complement each other for the analysis of toxic chemical compounds. Fluxapyroxad was commercialized a few years ago as a fungicide and today it is being used worldwide to control a variety of pests. In the present study, the development of monoclonal antibody-based immunochemical methods for the analysis of this chemical in food samples was evaluated for the first time. Novel haptens were synthesized and protein bioconjugates were prepared. High-affinity and specific monoclonal antibodies to fluxapyroxad were generated from two haptens with alternative linker tethering sites. Haptens with linker site heterology and a structurally heterologous hapten with a minor modification of the molecule conformation and volume but with a significant alteration of the electronic density of the pyrazole moiety were evaluated for immunoassay development. Direct and indirect competitive immunoassays were characterized and optimized, showing IC50 values for fluxapyroxad of 0.14 and 0.05 ng mL−1, respectively. The combination of two heterologies was particularly adequate in the indirect format. The two developed immunoassays showed excellent recoveries and coefficients of variation in fluxapyroxad-fortified plums and four varieties of grapes. Finally, a good correlation was found between the indirect immunoassay and UPLC-MS/MS when fruit samples with incurred residues of fluxapyroxad were analyzed. These monoclonal antibody-based immunochemical methods hold great promise for fluxapyroxad monitoring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Boscalid is an agrochemical recently developed for crop protection and the most significant member of the succinate dehydrogenase inhibitor group of fungicides. In this study, a collection of high-affinity monoclonal antibodies was generated to boscalid. By using a series of haptens with a linker at alternative tethering sites of the boscalid framework, specific antibodies were isolated as well as antibodies that also recognized the main boscalid metabolite. Two immunoassays were developed using different ELISA formats. Optimized assays displayed very high sensitivities (limits of detection were near 0.01 µg/L). Trueness and precision for the determination of the target analyte in strawberry samples was evaluated. Moreover, immunoassay performance was validated with a reference chromatographic method using QuEChERS extracts of fruits from fungicide-treated crops. A monitoring study with strawberry samples from local markets was carried out by immunoassay, showing an occurrence of boscalid of 15% with a maximum residue concentration of 43 µg/kg. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Anatoxin-a and homoanatoxin-a are highly neurotoxic compounds produced by cyanobacteria, principally during surface water-blooms (SWBs). Owing to their powerful biological activity and unique structural characteristics, these natural alkaloids have been the subject of extensive research work in both pharmacological and synthetic studies. In this contribution we report a simple and efficient synthetic approach for the preparation of both the natural and unnatural enantiomers of these cyanotoxins, [(+)- 1 and (+)- 2 ] and [(−)- 1 and (−)- 2 ] respectively. Key features of this approach include: i) construction of the azabicyclic homotropane framework in both enantiomeric forms from cis -5,6-epoxycyclooctene, based on a microwave mediated epoxide ring opening reaction by a chiral benzyl amine followed by a transannular amine-alkene cyclization; ii) elaboration of the characteristic methyl or ethyl enone by means of a Sonogashira cross-coupling reaction of an enol-triflate with a C2 or C3 terminal alkyne, followed by a chemo- and regio-selective hydration of the resulting conjugated enyne group. Graphical abstract Image 1 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Specific monoclonal antibodies were coupled with magnetic Sepharose-based beads and used, for the first time. The methodology was applied to preconcentrate anatoxin-a from water and the later determination by ion mobility spectrometry (IMS). Dispersive magnetic immunoaffinity (d-MagIA) extraction methodology provided a limit of detection of 0.02 μg L −1 and a satisfactory precision with a relative standard deviation lower than 15%. Recoveries were evaluated at 0.5, 1.0 and 5.0 μg L −1 anatoxin-a with quantitative values from 91 to 115%. Additionally, isobaric interferences with phenylalanine were completely avoided by the use of the developed d-MagIA extraction coupled to IMS determinations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fluorescence polarisation immunoassays (FPIAs) based on monoclonal antibodies for detection of three strobilurin fungicides - kresoxim-methyl (KM), trifloxystrobin (TF) and picoxystrobin (PC), were developed and optimised. Fluorescein-labelled derivatives of target antigens (tracers) were synthesised and purified by thin-layer chromatography. Influence of tracer structures on the assay parameters was investigated. For KM and TF, the best assay performance was achieved with the homologous pairs of reagents. For the PC assay, the heterologous tracer, i.e. fluorescein-labelled derivative of TF, was used. The developed FPIAs were applied to the determination of KM, TF and PC in red wine. Most optimal sample preparation was achieved with cross-linked poly(vinylpyrrolidone) as a sorbent. This clean-up is simple, rapid and allows determination of all three strobilurin fungicides in one sample. Detection limits of the developed FPIAs in red wine were 28, 6 and 5 ng/mL for KM, TF and PC, respectively. Recovery in spiked samples averaged between 80% and 104%. Intra- and inter-assay coefficients of variance were less than 12%. The developed FPIA methods can be applied to screening of wine samples for KM, TF and PC residues without complicated cleanup. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mycotoxin monitoring is critical to ensure that foods are safe for human and animal consumption, so highly sensitive and selective detection methods are required by regulatory agencies. In this work, a new method for the analysis of patulin in fruit products was developed based on the high reactivity of the mycotoxin with sodium benzene-1,2- bis (thiolate). This previously unknown reaction occurs in buffered aqueous solution and results in a stable adduct that can be sensitively determined by tandem time-of-flight mass spectrometry. The proposed method is performed by a simple dilute-and-shoot procedure without the use of organic solvents and was able to determine patulin with an instrumental detection limit of 0.5 μg L−1. When the method was applied to the analysis of fortified apple and pear products, recovery values ranged from 95 to 100%. Finally, the applicability under real conditions was demonstrated by the successful analysis of reference and quality control materials. [Display omitted] • Monitoring of mycotoxins requires highly sensitive and selective methods. • The electrophilic properties of patulin are harnessed for detection. • The adduct is formed by reacting patulin with sodium benzene-1,2-bis(thiolate) in buffer. • No organic solvents and clean-up is required for patulin analysis. • The new method enables reliable patulin determination in food products at 10 μg L−1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Azoxystrobin, boscalid, cyprodinil, fenhexamid, and pyrimethanil are new generation fungicides extensively employed in order to combat diseases affecting vineyards worldwide. Owing to their physico-chemical characteristics, residues of these compounds on grapes are transferred to must and wine. In this study, a survey of the occurrence of these fungicides in international wines was carried out by using rapid antibody-based assays. Results are discussed as a function of wine type and sample geographical origin. 44.4% of the samples contained at least one of the targets (>10 μg L −1 ). Fungicide residue occurrences were 22.4%, 19.2%, 18.8%, 6.8%, and 1.2% for pyrimethanil, boscalid, fenhexamid, cyprodinil, and azoxystrobin, respectively, while residue contents higher than 100 μg L −1 were found in 8.4% of the samples. This study shows that contamination of commercial wines with pesticides is an issue of worldwide relevance with potential implications for consumer health and international trade. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cyprodinil is among the most common agrochemical residues found in highly perishable fruits, such as strawberries. In the present study, high-affinity monoclonal antibodies to this anilinopyrimidine fungicide were raised for the first time with the aim to produce valuable immunochemical analytical assays. Cyprodinil bioconjugates and the generated novel monoclonal antibodies were employed for sensitive competitive immunoassay development in two different formats. The limits of detection of the optimized assays were 20 and 30 ng L −1 for the indirect and direct assay, respectively. Influence over assay parameters of different physicochemical factors was studied. Strawberry samples were extracted following the recommended QuEChERS procedure for pesticide residues in food, and analyzed by the optimized immunoassays. Recoveries and coefficients of variation from fortified samples were within standard values. In addition, the obtained immunochemical results with naturally contaminated samples were statistically comparable, according to Deming regression analysis, to those of a reference chromatographic method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pyrimethanil is a widely used post-harvest fungicide whose residues are commonly found in fruits and vegetables. We herein report the synthesis of two new functionalized derivatives of pyrimethanil carrying an equivalent spacer arm at different positions of the molecule. The influence of the linker tethering site on the affinity of monoclonal antibodies was shown. Moreover, the development of competitive immunoassays in different formats and with high sensitivity to the target analyte – IC 50 values below 0.3 μg/L – is described. Optimized assays were characterized by the determination of the limit of quantification, trueness, and precision using water-diluted QuEChERS extracts of fruits and vegetables fortified with pyrimethanil. Finally, in-field treated and blind spiked strawberry, tomato, and cucumber samples were analyzed by the developed immunoassays and a reference chromatographic method. Using Deming regression analysis, we show that results from both methodologies were statistically comparable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bioconjugate preparation is a fundamental step for antibody generation and immunoassay development to small chemical compounds. For analytical targets holding in their structure an aryl halogen atom, cross-coupling reactions may be a simple and efficient way to obtain functionalized derivatives; thus offering great potential to elicit robust and selective immune responses after being coupled to immunogenic carrier proteins. However, substitution of the halogen atom by an aliphatic chain might eventually compromise the affinity and specificity of the resulting antibodies. In order to address this issue, proquinazid, a new-generation fungicide with outstanding performance, was chosen as model analyte. Two functionalized derivatives differing in spacer arm rigidity were synthesized by Sonogashira cross-coupling chemistry. These haptens were covalently coupled to bovine serum albumin and the resulting immunoconjugates were employed for rabbit vaccination. Antibodies were tested for proquinazid recognition by direct and indirect competitive immunoassay, and IC50 values in the low nanomolar range were found, thus demonstrating the suitability of this straightforward synthetic strategy for the generation of immunoreagents to compounds bearing an aryl halide. Following antibody characterization, competitive immunoassays were developed and employed to determine proquinazid residues in grape musts, and their analytical performance was satisfactorily validated by comparison with GC–MS. Besides having described the development of the first immunochemical method for proquinazid analysis, an efficient functionalization approach for analytes comprising aryl halides is reported. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cyprodinil is a new-generation anilinopyrimidine fungicide widely used in crop protection and frequently found in fruits. In this study, novel derivatives of cyprodinil with linker site heterologies were synthesized and employed in order to produce antibodies with enhanced affinity. Moreover, moiety-heterologous haptens were designed and prepared for assay sensitivity improvement. Two competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays for the analysis of this active substance were developed using direct and indirect formats, achieving IC 50 values around 0.15 μg/L. Analytical figures of merit and usability of the optimized assays were evaluated with wine and cider as model food processed matrices. The obtained recoveries were from 90% to 120%, and the limit of quantification was in the 1–5 μg/L range. Finally, a monitoring study ( n = 150) was performed to estimate the occurrence and the concentration of cyprodinil in commercial wine and cider products from different origins. We found that 28% of the analysed wine samples contained cyprodinil residues at levels higher than 5 μg/L. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] Two new monoclonal antibody-based immunoassays to trifloxystrobin were characterised. [•] An indirect assay for trifloxystrobin and its metabolite was developed. [•] Competitive ELISAs were validated with blind-spiked and in-field treated samples. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Boscalid is a modern agrochemical belonging to the so-called chemical class of succinate dehydrogenase inhibitor fungicides. With the aim of developing rapid analytical screening methods for this relevant compound, we herein report the synthesis of new boscalid mimics and the study of their suitability for the production of polyclonal antibodies. Aliphatic spacer arms equivalent in length and composition were tethered at two different aromatic rings of the target molecular structure. These haptens, besides being used for immunization, were employed in the development of heterologous competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (cELISAs) in order to improve assay detectability. Direct and indirect immunoassays were tailored and applied to the determination of samples with incurred boscalid residues. The assays were characterized in terms of sensitivity, specificity, trueness, and precision. Limit of quantification was established at 5 μg kg−1, coefficients of variation were lower than 20%, and recoveries from spiked samples ranged from 90 to 137%. Finally, ELISA performance was evaluated by Deming regression analysis with tomato and cucumber samples, selecting ultra-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry as the reference method. The results showed that the proposed cELISAs are useful for the routine determination of boscalid fungicides in foods with high-sample throughput and affordable cost. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] Seven functionalized regioisomeric derivatives of trifloxystrobin were synthesized. [•] Immunizing and assay conjugates were produced by a single coupling procedure. [•] A collection of monoclonal antibodies was generated. [•] Immunoreagents were evaluated by direct and indirect ELISA. [•] Fine specificity of antibodies was investigated using analogous compounds. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are nanomaterials with interesting emerging applications. Their properties make CNTs excellent candidates for use as new nanovehicles in drug delivery, immunization and diagnostics. In the current study, we assessed the immune-response-amplifying properties of CNTs to haptens by using azoxystrobin, the first developed strobilurin fungicide, as a model analyte. An azoxystrobin derivative bearing a carboxylated spacer arm (hapten AZc6) was covalently coupled to bovine serum albumin (BSA), and the resulting BSA–AZc6 conjugate was covalently linked to four functionalized CNTs of different shapes and sizes, varying in diameter and length. These four types of CNT-based constructs were obtained using efficient, fast, and easy functionalization procedures based on microwave-assisted chemistry. New Zealand rabbits and BALB/c mice were immunized with BSA–AZc6 alone and with the four CNT–BSA–AZc6 constructs, both with and without Freund's adjuvant. The IgG-type antibody responses were assessed in terms of the titer and affinity, paying special attention to the relationship between the immune response and the size and shape of the employed CNTs. Immunization with CNT–BSA–AZc6 resulted in enhanced titers and excellent affinities for azoxystrobin. More important, remarkable IgG responses were obtained even in the absence of an adjuvant, thus proving the self-adjuvanting capability of CNTs. Immunogens were able to produce strong anti-azoxystrobin immune responses in rabbits even when administered at a BSA–AZc6 conjugate dose as low as 0.05μg. The short and thick CNT–BSA–AZc6 construct produced the best antibody response under all tested conditions. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Strobilurins are a family of synthetic natural-derived pesticides widely used for fungi control in many crops. As part of a larger research project, a collection of monoclonal antibodies to one of the most relevant strobilurins, i.e. pyraclostrobin, has been generated using functionalized haptens with the spacer arm located at different sites. The toxophore aliphatic moiety, as observed with other strobilurins, and the planar aromatic two-ring system characteristic of this molecule were revealed as the best tethering sites for high-affinity monoclonal antibody production. A central derivatization position did not generate a good immune response, but such derivatives were useful as heterologous competitors in order to improve assay sensitivity. Direct and indirect assays were characterized in terms of solvent influence, pH, and ionic strength. Immunoassays with limits of detection below 0.1 μg/L were developed. A QuEChERS-based procedure was applied to the extraction of blueberry, strawberry, raspberry, peach, apricot, and plum jams. Clean acetonitrile extracts were properly diluted in water and analyzed by both optimized immunoassays with good accuracy and precision at levels covering the European maximum residue limits for those fruits. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Mepanipyrim is an anilinopyrimidine fungicide used worldwide for crop protection. With the aim of developing useful immunoreagents for mepanipyrim immunoanalysis, two new functionalized derivatives were prepared and antibodies were generated. Affinity and specificity were assessed by direct and indirect competitive ELISA using homologous and heterologous conjugates. Although all antibodies were selective for the target analyte, the immunizing hapten structure was revealed as a determinant for high-affinity antibody production (IC50 = 3 nM). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Rapid analytical methods enabling the determination of diverse targets are essential in a number of research areas, from clinical diagnostics to feed and food quality and safety. Herein, the development of a quantitative immunochromatographic assay for the detection of the synthetic phytoregulator forchlorfenuron (CPPU) is described. The competitive lateral flow immunoassay (LFIA) was based on the immobilization onto a nitrocellulose membrane of an ovalbumin–CPPU conjugate (test line) and on the use of an immunodetection ligand consisting of carbon nanoparticles labeled with an anti-CPPU monoclonal antibody through interaction with a secondary antibody. The presence of CPPU in horticultural samples was visually interpreted by the decrease in the black signal intensity of the test line, according to the competitive character of the format. The quantitative determination of the analyte was easily performed by a two-step procedure consisting of flatbed scanning of the strips followed by computer-based image analysis of the pixel gray volumes of the test lines. Under optimized conditions, the immunochromatographic test afforded a limit of quantification in buffer of 89ng/L. The accuracy of the strip test was assessed by the analysis of fruit samples with incurred residues, and the obtained results were compared with those derived from two reference methods, ELISA and HPLC. The LOQ of the CPPU-specific LFIA in kiwifruits and grapes was established at 33.4μg/kg. The excellent analytical performance of the developed strip test demonstrates the potential of immunochromatographic assays for the quantitative monitoring of small organic molecules in complex matrices. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Forchlorfenuron is a synthetic phytohormone with cytokinin-like activity used worldwide as a plant growth regulator to increase fruit size in a number of crops, mostly in kiwifruit and grape vines. A monoclonal antibody-based enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for the determination of forchlorfenuron has been characterized and optimized. The selected immunoreagents afforded a highly selective assay with a limit of detection of 10 ng L in buffer. This direct competitive ELISA was validated in terms of trueness, precision, and robustness using both commercial juice and whole fruit samples. Recoveries from fortified kiwifruit juices and white and red musts were between 97 % and 131 %, with relative standard deviations below 16 %. When homogenized whole fruits were analysed after acetonitrile extraction, recoveries between 96 % and 113 % were found, with a limit of quantification of 5 μg kg. The proposed immunoassay was validated by comparison with a reference chromatographic method using fruits from in-field treated grape and kiwifruit vines. Linear regression analysis of ELISA and HPLC-UV determinations showed an excellent correlation ( r = 0.998), whereas analysis of the slope (0.99 ± 0.01) and of the intercept (−1 ± 3) clearly proved that the developed competitive immunoassay provided results that were statistically comparable to those obtained by the instrumental method for the analysis of forchlorfenuron in fruits at trace levels. [Figure not available: see fulltext.] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Picoxystrobin is a new generation fungicide primarily developed to be used in cereal crops. In the present study a novel collection of specific monoclonal antibodies has been produced using different immunizing haptens based on a carboxy-functionalized identical spacer arm attached to alternative positions of the target pesticide molecule. Two competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays have been developed employing hapten heterology, one using the antibody-coated direct format and the other in the conjugate-coated indirect format. Both immunoassays have been characterized in terms of selectivity, solvent tolerance, and buffer conditions, affording similar limits of detection at or below 0.1 μg/L. Finally, the optimized assays were applied to the analysis of picoxystrobin in wheat, corn, oat, barley, and soybean flours. Average recovery values from spiked samples were between 84 and 115%. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The use of agrochemicals for crop protection may result in the presence of toxic residues in soils and aquatic environments, besides in foodstuffs. Most often just the parent compound is included in the definition of pesticide residue, even though chemicals resulting from biotransformation and degradation routes might also be of toxicological relevance. Azoxystrobin is a broad-spectrum systemic fungicide widely used worldwide to combat pathogenic fungi affecting plants. We herein report the synthesis and detailed chemical characterization of several of the most relevant metabolites and degradates of azoxystrobin. These compounds were further employed as ligands for screening a collection of monoclonal antibodies to azoxystrobin, which had been previously generated from haptens functionalized at different positions of the target chemical. As a result, an antibody was identified capable of binding, with subnanomolar affinity, not only azoxystrobin but also its main transformation products, such as the so-called acid and enol derivatives, as well as the azoxystrobin (Z)-isomer. The selected binder was demonstrated as a useful immunoreagent for the development of immunochemical assays as novel analytical tools for the qualitative determination of azoxystrobin and its metabolites and degradates. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Azoxystrobin is a modern strobilurin fungicide used around the world to combat prime diseases affecting highly valuable crops. Accordingly, residues of this chemical are frequently found in food, even though mostly under maximum tolerated levels. We herein describe the development of an indirect competitive immunoassay for the determination of azoxystrobin residues. A panel of monoclonal antibodies displaying subnanomolar affinity to azoxystrobin was generated using, as immunizing haptens in mice, four functionalized derivatives carrying the same spacer arm located at different rationally chosen positions. This collection of antibodies was thoroughly characterized with homologous and heterologous antigens, and the immunoassay consisting of monoclonal antibody AZo6#49 and the coating conjugate OVA–AZb6, which displayed an IC50 value of 0.102μgL−1 and a LOD of 0.017μgL−1, was eventually optimized. The response to different pH and ionic strength conditions of the specific assay was studied using a biparametric approach. In addition, the influence of Tween 20 and organic solvents over the assay parameters was also evaluated. After optimization, the developed immunochemical assay was applied to the analysis of azoxystrobin in spiked juices of relevant fruits and vegetables, showing excellent recoveries between 2 and 500μgL−1. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The relevance of the linker tethering site in haptens was investigated for antibody generation and immunoassay development. Three derivatives of the strobilurin fungicide picoxystrobin were synthesized with the same functionalized spacer arm located at three different positions. Protein conjugates of those haptens were employed as immunogens, and novel polyclonal antibodies were produced and characterized. All haptens afforded highly specific antibodies, but different affinities to the free analyte were observed among the obtained antisera. Next, competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays were studied in several formats, and site heterology was confirmed as an effective strategy for detectability improvement. An indirect heterologous immunoassay was eventually selected and optimized, showing a limit of detection for picoxystrobin of 0.02μg/L and a working range between 0.03 and 1.30μg/L. Finally, the developed extraction and analytical procedures revealed a practical limit of quantification of 5μg/kg for this fungicide in soybean sprouts, well below the maximum residue limits in the European Union. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Pyraclostrobin belongs to a new generation of fungicides widely used to preserve high valuable crops. In the present study, three monoclonal antibodies with different affinities to this modern strobilurin have been evaluated for their usefulness in the production of immunoaffinity columns suitable for the solid-phase extraction, concentration, and clean-up of residues from food commodities. Different immunosorbents were produced and characterized in terms of antibody immobilization efficiency, immunosorbent binding capacity, optimum elution conditions, and reusability. Covalent coupling of the antibodies to Sepharose–CNBr gel took place with high yield (over 90%), whereas the immunosorbent efficacy to retain the analyte (from 28 to 68%) was shown to depend on the amount and type of antibody immobilized on the support. As a matter of fact, columns prepared with the monoclonal antibody PYs5#14 were able to selectively bound up to 53μg of pyraclostrobin per gram of beads. Acetonitrile solutions were preferred over methanolic ones for analyte elution, and some immunosorbents could be reused at least 4–6 times provided that the amount of pyraclostrobin and the volume of sample did not overload the column. Effectiveness of the selected immunoaffinity column was evidenced by the development of an extraction procedure for pyraclostrobin residues from fruit juices and further determination by high-performance liquid chromatography with UV detection. A concentration factor of 50 times was achieved with the developed immunoaffinity column, which eventually resulted in a limit of quantification of 0.01mgL−1. Finally, quantitative recoveries were obtained on apple juice and red grape must samples spiked with pyraclostrobin from 0.01 to 1mgL−1. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The immune response to regioisomeric haptens of azoxystrobin with varied derivatization sites was studied. Based on the Sonogashira and Suzuki–Miyaura couplings and following a straightforward modular design, we have synthesized four haptens with the same linker anchored through C–C bonds and located at different sites of the molecule. The most stereoselective antibodies were produced from immunogens with the spacer arm at a distal position from the β-methoxyacrylate moiety characteristic of strobilurins. Moreover, we observed that assay cross-reactivity was reliant on the functionalization site of the competitor derivative. Finally, the antibody binding site was explored using synthetic chemical analogues. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

• ELISA and LFIA based on novel immunoreagents were developed for OTA detection in wine and must. • The ELISA allows the analysis of OTA at concentrations below the limit set by the EU (2 ng/mL). • The LFIA showed 80% and complete inhibition at 0.5 and 2 ng/mL, respectively. • LFIA was validated following EU Regulation 519/2014 for semi-quantitative screening methods. • The immunoassays are suitable for on-site monitoring of samples contaminated with OTA. Immunochemical methods are highly deployed in analytical laboratories worldwide for monitoring the incidence of mycotoxins in the food chain. Nevertheless, most conventional immunoassays for ochratoxin A (OTA), including commercial kits, show limitations to robustly determine this mycotoxin in grape-derived products below regulated levels (2 ng/mL). Herein, two rapid tests for sensitive OTA determination in wine and must were developed capitalizing on a collection of bioconjugates from innovative synthetic haptens and monoclonal antibodies with subnanomolar affinity. The ELISA (LOD = 8 pg/mL) showed excellent performance in recovery studies, and it was applied to survey commercial wines and musts for OTA contamination. Concerning LFIA, validation according to the Commission Regulation 519/2014 showed that samples exceeding 2 ng/mL were properly scored as uncompliant. More importantly, illegal samples provided a complete inhibition of the test signal, making this test an easy-to-use, rapid, and convenient screening method for in-house control of OTA in wineries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]