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Background: Exploring novel biomarkers for gastric cancer holds promise for enhancing patients' therapy and survival rates. lncRNAs and miRNAs have emerged as important biomarkers for various human cancers. However, the role of lncRNA RMST (RMST) in gastric cancer development and the mechanism underlying its function remains unclear. Results: Significant upregulation of RMST was observed in gastric cancer tumor tissues. RMST levels showed strong correlation with patients' lymph node metastasis and TNM stage and serving as a predictor of adverse prognosis RMST negatively regulated miR-204-5p, which in turn mediated the inhibitory effects of RMST knockdown on gastric cancer cell growth and metastasis. Conclusion: RMST served as both a prognostic biomarker and tumor promoter by modulating miR-204-5p. Inhibiting RMST could represent a novel and potential therapeutic strategy for gastric cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have been demonstrated to be involved in the pathogenesis of various human cancers. However, the role of microRNA-519a (miR-519a) in gastric cancer (GC) remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the clinical value and biological function of miR-519a in GC. Methods: The expression of miR-519a in GC tissues and cell lines was estimated by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. Survival analysis for GC patients was performed using the Kaplan-Meier method. Cox regression analysis was used to confirm the prognostic value of miR-519a. The biological function and potential targets of miR-519a in GC progression were assessed using cell experiments. Results: In this study, we found that miR-519a was an important tumor suppressor with downregulated expression in GC tissues and cells compared with that in normal controls (all p < 0.05). MiR-519a expression was inversely correlated with differentiation, lymph node metastasis, and the TNM stage of patients. Decreased miR-519a expression was associated with the poor overall survival of GC patients (log-rank p = 0.002) and served as an independent prognostic biomarker for the patients. The in vitro analyses indicated that miR-519a overexpression in GC cells resulted in inhibited cell proliferation, migration, and invasion, and IGFBP1 was determined to be a direct target of miR-519a. Conclusion: All the data in the present study revealed that the downregulated expression of miR-519a predicts the poor prognosis of GC and is involved in the regulation of GC progression. We consider that miR-519a may be a candidate therapeutic target for GC treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The migration behaviour of four photo-initiators (BP, EHA, MBP and Irgacure 907) was studied by ‘printing’ onto four different food-packaging materials (Kraft paper, white cardboard, Polyethylene (PE)-coated paper and composite paper) and tracking movement into the food simulant: Tenax-TA (porous polymer 2,6-diphenyl furan resin). The results indicated that the migration of the photo-initiators was related to the molecular weight and log Ko/wof each photo-initiator. At different temperatures, the migration rates of the photo-initiators were different in papers with different thicknesses. The amount of each photo-initiator found in the food was closely related to the food matrix. The Weibull model was used to predict the migration load into the food simulants by calculating the parametersτandβand determining the relationship of the two parameters with temperature and paper thickness. The established Weibull model was then used to predict the migration of each photo-initiator with respect to different foods. A two-parameter Weibull model fitted the actual situation, with some deviation from the actual migration amount. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

A low-cost and highly efficient biosorbent was prepared by loading zirconium(IV) onto ball-milled, ultrafine tea powder (UTP-Zr) for removal of fluoride from drinking water. To evaluate the fluoride adsorption capacity of UTP-Zr over a wide range of conditions, the biosorbent dosage, contact time, initial pH, initial fluoride concentration and presence of other ions were varied. UTP-Zr performed well over the considerably wide pH range of 3–10. The residual concentration of Zr in the treated water was below the limit of detection (0.01 mg/L). Fluoride adsorption by the UTP-Zr biosorbent followed the Langmuir model, with a maximum adsorption capacity of 12.43 mgF/g at room temperature. The fluoride adsorption kinetics fit the pseudo-second-order kinetic model. The synthesized biosorbent was characterized by BET, SEM, EDS, XRD and XPS to reveal how UTP-Zr interacts with fluoride. Results from this study demonstrated that UTP-based biosorbents will be useful and safe for the removal of fluoride from drinking water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Physalis pubescens and Physalis alkekengi, members of the Physalis genus, are valued for their delicious and medicinal fruits as well as their different ripened fruit colors—golden for P. pubescens and scarlet for P. alkekengi. This study aimed to elucidate the pigment composition and genetic mechanisms during fruit maturation in these species. Fruit samples were collected at four development stages, analyzed using spectrophotometry and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), and complemented with transcriptome sequencing to assess gene expression related to pigment biosynthesis. β-carotene was identified as the dominant pigment in P. pubescens, contrasting with P. alkekengi, which contained both lycopene and β-carotene. The carotenoid biosynthesis pathway was central to fruit pigmentation in both species. Key genes pf02G043370 and pf06G178980 in P. pubescens, and TRINITY_DN20150_c1_g3, TRINITY_DN10183_c0_g1, and TRINITY_DN23805_c0_g3 in P. alkekengi were associated with carotenoid production. Notably, the MYB-related and bHLH transcription factors (TFs) regulated zeta-carotene isomerase and β-hydroxylase activities in P. pubescens with the MYB-related TF showing dual regulatory roles. In P. alkekengi, six TF families—bHLH, HSF, WRKY, M-type MADS, AP2, and NAC—were implicated in controlling carotenoid synthesis enzymes. Our findings highlight the intricate regulatory network governing pigmentation and provide insights into Physalis germplasm's genetic improvement and conservation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The activation of ferroptosis presents a versatile strategy for enhancing the antitumor immune responses in cancer therapy. However, developing ferroptosis inducers that combine high biocompatibility and therapeutic efficiency remains challenging. In this study, we propose a novel approach using biological nanoparticles derived from outer membrane vesicles (OMVs) of Escherichia coli for tumor treatment, aiming to activate ferroptosis and stimulate the immune responses. Specifically, we functionalize the OMVs by anchoring them with ferrous ions via electrostatic interactions and loading them with the STING agonist-4, followed by tumor-targeting DSPE-PEG-FA decoration, henceforth referred to as OMV/SaFeFA. The anchoring of ferrous ions endows the OMVs with peroxidase-like activity, capable of inducing cellular lipid peroxidation by catalyzing H2O2 to •OH. Furthermore, OMV/SaFeFA exhibits pH-responsive release of ferrous ions and the agonist, along with tumor-targeting capabilities, enabling tumor-specific therapy while minimizing side effects. Notably, the concurrent activation of the STING pathway and ferroptosis elicits robust antitumor responses in colon tumor-bearing mouse models, leading to exceptional therapeutic efficacy and prolonged survival. Importantly, no acute toxicity was observed in mice receiving OMV/SaFeFA treatments, underscoring its potential for future tumor therapy and clinical translation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To explore the efficacy and safety of fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) as a treatment approach for ulcerative colitis (UC), a comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials was conducted. To collect and evaluate randomized controlled trials of high quality on FMT for UC, we searched a number of databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane, Embase, and Medline, for studies published between the establishment of the databases and March 2023. We conducted a meta-analysis of the studies using Review Manager software (version 5.4.1) to determine the differences in rates of remission and adverse reactions between the FMT group and the control group, utilizing the risk ratio (RR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) to combine our findings. A total of 13 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on the efficacy of FMT in patients with UC were included in the study, in which 580 patients participated, including 293 patients treated with FMT and 287 control subjects. Meta-analysis revealed that clinical remission was significantly better in the FMT group than in the control group [RR = 1.73; 95% CI = (1.41, 2.12); P < 0.00001]; endoscopic remission was significantly better in the FMT group than in the control group [RR = 1.74; 95% CI = (1.24, 2.44); P = 0.001]. Additionally, there were no significant differences in the incidence of adverse reactions between the two groups [RR = 1.00; 95% CI = (0.86, 1.15); P = 0.96]. Fecal microbiota transplantation has shown potential as a therapeutic intervention for inducing clinical remission in ulcerative colitis UC; nevertheless, the attainment of endoscopic remission and the maintenance of long-term remission continue to present challenges. Safety concerns persist throughout the treatment process, necessitating the implementation of measures to augment both safety and success rates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Fluoride exacerbates obesity in HFD fed mice, while shows limited effect in ND mice. • Fluoride induced obesity is mediated by gut microbiota and intestinal barrier. • Fluoride exacerbates the obesity in HFD mice through a TLR4-dependent mechanism. • Erysipelatoclostridium ramosum was identified as a crucial mediator of fluoride induced obesity. Fluoride is widely presented in drinking water and foods. A strong relation between fluoride exposure and obesity has been reported. However, the potential mechanisms on fluoride-induced obesity remain unexplored. Objectives and methods The effects of fluoride on the obesity were investigated using mice model. Furthermore, the role of gut homeostasis in exacerbation of the obesity induced by fluoride was evaluated. Results The results showed that fluoride alone did not induce obesity in normal diet (ND) fed mice, whereas, it could trigger exacerbation of obesity in high-fat diet (HFD) fed mice. Fluoride impaired intestinal barrier and activated Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) signaling to induce obesity, which was further verified in TLR4−/− mice. Furthermore, fluoride could deteriorate the gut microbiota in HFD mice. The fecal microbiota transplantation from fluoride-induced mice was sufficient to induce obesity, while the exacerbation of obesity by fluoride was blocked upon gut microbiota depletion. The fluoride-induced bloom of Erysipelatoclostridium ramosum was responsible for exacerbation of obesity. In addition, a potential strategy for prevention of fluoride-induced obesity was proposed by intervention with polysaccharides from Fuzhuan brick tea. Conclusion Overall, these results provide the first evidence of a comprehensive cross-talk mechanism between fluoride and obesity in HFD fed mice, which is mediated by gut microbiota and intestinal barrier. E. ramosum was identified as a crucial mediator of fluoride induced obesity, which could be explored as potential target for prevention and treatment of obesity with exciting translational value. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Yeast β-glucan intervention offers a promising strategy for managing colitis; however, the mechanisms remain unknown. In the present work, the protective effects of yeast β-glucan on DSS-induced colitis in mice was evaluated, focusing on its interaction with gut microbiota. The result showed yeast β-glucan significantly alleviated colitis symptoms, evidenced by reduced weight loss, lower disease activity index (DAI) scores, and minimized intestinal damage. It enhanced intestinal barrier integrity via upregulation of tight junction proteins, suppressed lipopolysaccharide (LPS) release, and decreased pro-inflammatory cytokines production. Additionally, yeast β-glucan boosted short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) production, and activated their receptors, increased the relative abundances of beneficial microbes like Lactobacillus and Lachnospiraceae_UCG-006. Transcriptomic analyses suggest that yeast β-glucan mitigates inflammation by downregulating gene expression related to IL-17 pathway. Our findings highlight potential of yeast β-glucan as a therapeutic agent for colitis through modulation of gut microbiota and inflammatory responses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Endemic fluorosis has gained increasing attention as a public health concern, and the escalating risk of colitis resulting from excessive fluoride intake calls for effective mitigation strategies. This study aimed to investigate the potential mechanisms underlying the alleviation of fluoride-induced colitis by Tea polysaccharides (TPS). Under conditions of excessive fluoride intake, significant changes were observed in the gut microbiota of rats, leading to aggravated colitis. However, the intervention of TPS exerted a notable alleviating effect on colitis symptoms. Antibiotic intervention and fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) experiments provided evidence that TPS-mediated relief of fluoride-induced colitis is mediated through its effects on the gut microbiota. Furthermore, TPS supplementation was found to modulate the structure of gut microbiota, enhance the relative abundance of Limosilactobacillus vaginalis in the gut microbiota, and promote the expression of short-chain fatty acid (SCFAs) receptors in colonic tissue. Notably, L. vaginalis played a significant role in alleviating fluoride-induced colitis and facilitating the absorption of butyric acid in the rat colon. Subsequent butyric acid intervention experiments confirmed its remarkable alleviating effect on fluoride-induced colitis. Overall, these findings provide a potential preventive strategy for fluoride-induced colitis by TPS intervention, which is mediated by L. vaginalis and butyric acid. [Display omitted] • Tea polysaccharides (TPS) significantly alleviate fluoride-induced colitis in rats. • TPS-mediated relief of fluoride-induced colitis is mediated through its effects on the gut microbiota. • Limosilactobacillus vaginalis is identified as a crucial mediator in alleviating fluoride-induced colitis by TPS. • TPS and L. vaginalis enhance the absorption of butyric acid and up-regulate the colonic expression of GPR41 and GPR43. • TPS holds promise as a preventive and therapeutic approach for fluoride-induced colitis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new zirconium and cerium-modified polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (NaCMC) film (PVA/CMC-Zr-Ce) was synthesized thru a high-speed shear-assisted method and its adsorption for the removal of fluoride was studied, in which the NaCMC provided –COONa for ion exchange between Na and Zr-Ce, thus the loading amount of Zr-Ce on films was accordingly increased. The morphology and structure of PVA/CMC-Zr-Ce were characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). Besides, the mechanical properties, water contact angle, and swelling ratio of film were also evaluated. The addition of high-speed shear improved the dispersion of the emulsion system, and PVA/CMC-Zr-Ce film with good adsorption performance and film stability was prepared. While, it was found that the adsorption capacity could reach 67.25 mg/g and equilibrium time could reach 20 min. The adsorption mechanism of PVA/CMC-Zr-Ce revealed that ion exchange between hydroxide and fluoride, electrostatic interactions and complexation were the dominating influencing factors. Based on these findings, it can be concluded that PVA/CMC-Zr-Ce film- synthesized with high-speed shear assistance technique is a promising adsorbent for fluoride removal from water. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Most studies focus on the geographically larger production areas in tea traceability. However, famous high‐quality tea is often produced in a narrow range of origins, which makes traceability a challenge. In this study, Taiping Houkui (TPHK) green tea of narrow geographical origin was rapidly identified using Fourier‐transform near‐infrared (FT‐NIR) spectroscopy. RESULTS: First, spectral information of 114 TPHK samples from four production areas was acquired. Second, the synthetic minority over‐sampling technique (SMOTE) was used to balance the sample data set, and three different spectral pre‐processing methods were compared. Third, three feature variable selection algorithms were used to obtain the pre‐processed spectral features. Finally, extreme learning machine (ELM) models based on the variables obtained from the selected features were established to trace the TPHK origin. The optimized ELM model achieves 95.35% classification accuracy in the test set. CONCLUSION: The present study demonstrates that the optimized variable selection method in combination with NIR spectroscopy represents a suitable strategy for tea traceability in narrow regions. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Food flavor is a vital contributor to food quality, while the food packaging material is one of important factors affecting its flavor. Currently, plastic packaging materials are widely used for food packaging (such as polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), and polyethylene terephthalate (PET), etc.), thus understanding the odor properties of plastic packaging materials and providing effective approaches to reduce the adverse effects are essential for manufacturers, which will be helpful to maintaining high quality and consumer acceptability of food flavor. This review will provide a comprehensive summary of the odors, sources, analytical techniques, food impacts and reduction approaches of food plastic packaging materials. The finding from 185 odor compounds in plastic food packaging indicates that aldehydes and ketones volatile compounds are the main sources of plastic odors. These compounds predominantly originate from plastic additives and can be released due to high temperatures and irradiation. Indeed, due to the low content of volatile compounds in plastics, the effective screening of odor compounds requires the integration of multiple extraction and evaluation methods, combined with high-resolution analytical techniques. In addition, the interaction between packaging materials and food can change food flavor. Therefore, this review emphasizes the factors influencing the retention, adsorption, and migration effects of packaging materials on food flavor, and suggests effective strategies to mitigate the adverse impact of packaging materials on food. [Display omitted] • The physicochemical characteristics and odor volatile compounds in food plastic packaging are summarized. • Aldehydes and ketones are key odor volatile compounds in plastic packaging materials. • The sources and analysis techniques of odor in plastic packaging are summarized. • The barrier, adsorption, and migration of plastic packaging in food applications are discussed. • The potential strategies are proposed to reduce the impact of packaging materials on food flavor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• In situ formation of fluorescent copolymer was an effective signal amplification. • HRP-triggered in situ immunoassay was used for the detection of two rodenticides. • This assay made a 6-fold improvement in IC 50 compared with colorimetric ELISA. • This assay realized the food analysis or poisoning diagnosis of two rodenticides. Bromadiolone and brodifacoum, the most frequently used anticoagulant rodenticides, are highly toxic and pose a threat to public health by causing food poisoning incidents. Here, we developed a fluorescence microplate immunoassay for facile and sensitive detection of bromadiolone and brodifacoum by introducing three commercial chemicals (p -phenylenediamine, polyethyleneimine, H 2 O 2) as a new substrate of horseradish peroxidase and then generating fluorescence signals based on an in situ fluorogenic reaction (detection time within 75 min). This assay exhibited higher efficiency in generating fluorescence signals, thereby exhibiting a 6-fold improvement in sensitivity compared with colorimetric ELISA. The limit of detection was 0.23–0.28 ng/mL (ng/g) for bromadiolone and 0.34–0.61 ng/mL (ng/g) for brodifacoum in corn and human serum, with recovery ratios higher than 82.3 %. These satisfactory results illustrated our proposed assay was a potential tool for food analysis and poisoning diagnosis caused by bromadiolone and brodifacoum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The fluorescent whitening agents (FWAs) could be used in polyethylene (PE) packaging to increase whiteness, little work is done to explore the pollution form PE additives to food. Therefore, this study investigated the migration of FWAs from PE food packaging to a fatty food simulant (corn oil) and aqueous ethanol food simulant. Using the determined migration data, both a Crank monolayer migration model based on Fick's second law and a Weibull migration model were established for the FWAs. We compared the applicability of the two models to the migration tendencies of the FWAs. Both models could describe the migration behaviors of the FWAs into corn oil, the Weibull model predictions were closer to the actual migration trends. The migration behaviors of the FWAs into 95% ethanol could only be described by Crank model. In the Weibull model, the values of the parameters τ and β were positively correlated with temperature and negatively correlated with the thickness of the food packaging. In the Crank model, the partition coefficient values were positively correlated with the boiling points and negatively correlated with the polarity values. The storage conditions of the food including temperature, the thickness of PE had a tremendous impact on the migration of the FWAs in the PE. We hope this study can promote a deeper understanding of additive pollution from packaging materials to food. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Previous work showed that the bioavailability of fluoride in dark tea was lower than NaF solution. However, limited information is available indicating the effects of tea components on the fluoride bioavailability. In this study, the effects of the components in tea on the bioavailability of fluoride were evaluated in the Caco‐2 cell line model. Additionally, the mechanism of effect of aluminium on fluoride transport was investigated. The result showed that 10–100 μm of epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) could not influence fluoride transport. Al3+ significantly decreased fluoride transport in both apical‐basolateral and basolateral‐apical directions. Moreover, aluminium could form different forms of aluminium fluoride complexes, which were transported through Caco‐2 cells by different pathways. F− transport was mainly dependent on the paracellular pathway and active transport involving Cl− channels. The paracellular pathway played a predominant role in transport of AlF3. The paracellular pathway and active transport both participated in AlF2+ transport. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The molecular motion of starch at different glycerol concentrations (0, 20, 50, and 80 %) was investigated using Electron Paramagnetic Resonance (EPR) spectroscopy. Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and 1H nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR) spectroscopy confirmed that hydroxyl groups at the C2 and C3 positions of glucose units in corn starch (CS), waxy corn starch (WCS), and high amylose corn starch (HCS) were labeled with 4-amino-TEMPO. The crystallinities of CS, WCS, and HCS after spin-labeling decreased from 30.68 % to 3.21 %, 39.36 % to 1.65 %, and 28.54 % to 8.08 %, respectively. The pseudoplastic fluid properties of the spin-labeled starch remained shear-thin at different glycerol concentrations. EPR revealed the fast- and slow-motion components of the spin-labeled starch molecules dispersed in water. At a glycerol concentration of 20 %, the slow-motion component disappeared, indicating a faster rotational motion of the starch chain segments. As the glycerol concentration increased to 50 and 80 %, the rotational motion slowed because of high viscosity. In particular, the mobility of the spin-labeled WCS chains increased owing to easier access of glycerol and water to the branched structure. This study directly observed the dynamics of the molecular behavior of starch in glycerol-water systems. • Spin-labeled starches were prepared using 4-amino-TEMPO. • Spin labels reacted with the hydroxyl groups of C2 and C3 on the glucose residues. • EPR spectra can qualitatively demonstrate starch chain segment motion. • Starch chain segments exhibit faster mobility in 20 % glycerol content. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A low-cost and highly efficient tea waste biosorbent was prepared by amine cross-linking and tested for its ability to remove phosphate and nitrate ions from aqueous solutions. The tea waste (TW) and the amine cross-linked tea waste (ACTW) were compared using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray powder diffractometry (XRD), energy dispersive spectrometry (EDS), Fourier-transformed infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The removal of nitrate and phosphate by both TW and ACTW were compared through a set of experiments that varied the adsorbent dosage, contact time, initial concentration of target ion and pH of the nitrate and phosphate solution. The results showed that TW had limited adsorption abilities for nitrate and phosphate, while ACTW showed considerable adsorption capacities for nitrate and phosphate over a wide pH range of 3–10. The adsorption could be explained by the Langmuir isotherm model. The maximum sorption capacity of ACTW for nitrate ions was 136.43 mg/g and for phosphate ions was 98.72 mg/g. These results revealed that the mechanism by which ACTW removes nitrate and phosphate ions might involve electrostatic attraction as well as ion-exchange. These results indicated that ACTW could serve as a novel biowaste material for the removal of nitrogen and phosphorus from eutrophic water. Unlabelled Image • Biowaste-based sorbent made for removal of nitrogen and phosphorus from water • Synthesized quaternary ammonium salt and chloroalkane loaded onto Tea Waste • Amine cross-linked tea waste adsorption ions over a pH range of 3.0–10.0 • ACTW adsorbed 136.43 mg/g nitrate and 98.72 mg/g phosphate ions from solution • Adsorption was through electrostatic attraction and ion-exchange. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fluorosis caused by consumption of dark tea is a major public health problem in the western part of China. In this study, the effects of milk powder, butter, and table salt on the bioavailability of the fluoride in an infusion of dark tea were investigated in a rat model. These substances were examined for their potential as dietary interventions to reduce the risk of tea-induced fluorosis. Fluoride was less bioavailable from the dark tea infusion than from a NaF solution. The addition of milk powder significantly decreased the amount of fluoride absorbed from the dark tea infusion and increased the amount of fluoride in fecal excretion. While butter had a limited effect on fluoride bioavailability, it prolonged the fluoride absorption period. The addition of 4 mg/mL table salt significantly increased the bioavailability of fluoride in the dark tea infusion. The addition of different flavor augmentations to a dark tea infusion had different effects on fluoride bioavailability. Therefore, dietary intervention may be a novel strategy for reducing fluorosis risk. • The bioavailability of fluoride in dark tea and NaF aqueous solution was evaluated. • Milk significantly reduced the bioavailability of fluoride in dark tea. • In rats, butter prolonged the absorption period of fluoride from dark tea. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Volatile and non-volatile metabolites were characterized and analyzed. • Different data fusion and feature extraction methods were investigated. • Common dimension was used to analyze block weights and visualize data. • Mid-level data fusion in the RBF-SVM model achieved 93.33% test set accuracy. • HS-SPME-GC–MS and NMR achieved synergy to obtain higher classification accuracy. The narrow geographical traceability of green tea is both important and challenging. This study aimed to establish multi-technology metabolomic and chemometric approaches to finely discriminate the geographic origins of green teas. Taiping Houkui green tea samples were analyzed by headspace solid-phase microextraction coupled with gas chromatography-mass spectrometry and 1H NMR of polar (D 2 O) and non-polar (CDCl 3). Common dimension, low-level and mid-level data fusion approaches were tested to verify if the combination of several analytical sources can improve the classification ability of samples from different origins. In assessments of tea from six origins, the single instrument data test set results in 40.00% to 80.00% accuracy. Data fusion improved single-instrument performance classification with mid-level data fusion to obtain 93.33% accuracy in the test set. These results provide comprehensive metabolomic insights into the origin of TPHK fingerprinting and open up new metabolomic approaches for quality control in the tea industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • 1H NMR spectroscopy was applied to the adulteration detection of huajiao. • Untargeted model achieves 100% accuracy in identifying huajiao adulteration types. • Targeted models can effectively quantify adulteration content. • Sn -3 triacylglycerol identified as a marker for huajiao adulterated edible oil. • The LOD and LOQ based on the sn -3 triacylglycerol were 0.11% and 0.37%. Huajiao is a highly valued spice that is susceptible to fraudulent adulteration, particularly the addition of edible oils to increase weight and improve color. Nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR) and chemometrics were used to analyze 120 huajiao samples adulterated with different types and levels of edible oils. Using untargeted data and partial least squares-discriminant analysis (PLS-DA), the discrimination rate between types of adulteration reached 100% accuracy, and the R2 value of the prediction set for the level of adulteration using the targeted analysis dataset combined with PLS-regression methods reached 0.99. Triacylglycerols, major components of edible oils, were identified as a marker of adulteration through the variable importance in projection of the PLS-regression. A quantitative method based on the sn -3 triacylglycerol signal was developed that can achieve a detection limit of 0.11%. Testing of 28 market samples showed adulteration with various edible oils, with adulteration rates ranging from 0.96% to 4.41%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

American ginseng is a valued medicinal and food homologous herbal, which geographical source governs its medicinal and economical values. This work aimed to identify the American ginseng from four regions (including Northeast provinces and Shandong province in China, America, and Canada) using ICP-MS and EA-IRMS. American ginseng harvested in China had significantly higher levels of the essential elements of K (18.7 g/kg), Ca (2.3 g/kg), Na (2.0 g/kg), Mg (1.9 g/kg), P (2.2 g/kg), Mn (59.6 mg/kg), and Cu (12.0 mg/kg), and lower levels of Fe (40.2 mg/kg), total Zn (18.1 mg/kg), B (16.5 mg/kg), and Mo (182.6 μg/kg) than those in America. Similarly, American ginseng harvested in Canada had significantly lower levels of the essential elements of Ca (1.2 g/kg), Fe (7.8 mg/kg), and B (16.5 mg/kg) than those in America. American ginseng from four regions had the significant difference in δ 15N value. The highest and lowest δ 15N values in American ginseng were found in Shandong (3.5‰) and the Canada (−4.4‰), respectively. Multi-elements and C/N stable isotope combined with SVM, LDA, RF, and FNN models gave the good classification for American ginseng from four regions. The best FNN model obtained the 100% accuracy. The results showed that elements and C/N stable isotope are the useful indictors to identify the geographical origin of American ginseng. • The origin of American ginseng using ICP-MS and EA-IRMS were first application. • The elements and C/N stable isotope were correlation with geographical factors. • Statistics allow an excellent separation of Chinese, Canadian and American samples. • Novel use of elements, δ 13C and δ 15N combined with FNN yielded 100% accuracy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Selenium is a trace element that is crucial for maintaining human health. Supplementing selenium through safe and effective dietary methods can effectively reduce diseases caused by selenium deficiency. The purpose of this experiment is to develop a convenient and effective selenium supplement suitable for adding oily foods. Selenium polysaccharides, Tween-80 and pectin were used to prepare W/O emulsion, and then the selenium-enriched oleogels were obtained by freeze-drying. The results showed that as the pectin content increased, the particle size of the emulsion gradually decreased, whereas the oil-binding capacity of the oleogels gradually increased, the viscosity and elasticity had an increasing trend. The preparation parameters of oleogels were optimized: The optimal preparation parameters of oleogels were 6:4 for volume ratio of oil/water, 6.5% of Tween-80, and 2% of pectin. The selenium-enriched oleogels showed a strong DPPH scavenging ability (96%). Additionally, Camellia oleifera oil added with selenium-enriched oleogels demonstrated that the selenium-enriched oleogels inhibited the amount of fatty acids released of the oil during in vitro digestion, whereas increased the relative amount of unsaturated fatty acids. This study provides an effective method for the production of novel oil-based supplements and facilitates the digestion of unsaturated fatty acids. • Safe and convenient selenium-enriched oleogels has been prepared. • Selenium-enriched oleogels showed good hardness, and oil binding capacity. • The optimized oleogels showed a strong DPPH scavenging ability. • The selenium-enriched oleogels lowered the fatty acids release. • The antioxidant oleogels raised unsaturated proportion during digestion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel and easily separable adsorbent in the shape of a membrane for the rapid removal of fluoride from water was prepared after testing Zr, La and La Zr to modify a chitosan/polyvinyl alcohol composite adsorbent (CS/PVA-Zr, CS/PVA-La, CS/PVA-LA-Zr). The CS/PVA-La-Zr composite adsorbent can remove a large amount of fluoride within 1 min of contact time, and the adsorption equilibrium can be reached within 15 min. The fluoride adsorption behavior of the CS/PVA-La-Zr composite can be described by pseudo-second-order kinetics and Langmuir isotherms models. The morphology and structure of the adsorbents were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The adsorption mechanism was studied using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and which showed that ion exchange occurred mainly with hydroxide and fluoride ions. This study showed that an easily operable, low-cost and environmentally friendly CS/PVA-La-Zr has the potential to remove fluoride effectively from drinking water in a short time. • CS/PVA-La-Zr rapidly removed more than 90 % fluoride in the first 1 min. • Lanthanum (III) and zirconium (IV) help in the removal of fluoride. • CS/PVA-La-Zr had short execution time and great potential in practical application. • Effective fluoride removal from water across a wide pH range of 3–8. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The geographical origin of black tea can affect commercial value and is highly susceptible to food fraud. In this study, nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy was used for untargeted metabolomics analysis of 219 black tea samples from seven major black tea producing regions in China (Anhui, Yunnan, Fujian, and Guangdong), India (Darjeeling and Assam) and Sri Lanka (Kandy). Black tea from different geographical origins can be distinguished according to the variety and processing, among which caffeine and alanine were identified as the main differential metabolites of the variety, theaflavin 3, 3′-digallate and succinic acid were identified as the main differential metabolites of the processing. Several machine learning algorithms were used to identify the origin of black tea, and the test set accuracy results showed that the nonlinear model random forest (92.7%) and support vector machine (91.8%) algorithms were better than the linear model linear discriminant analysis (86.3%) and K-nearest neighbor (86.3%). The random forest model screened 14 black tea geographical origin marker metabolites, such as caffeine, malic acid, lysine and β -glucose, and based on these marker metabolites, the chemical fingerprint pattern of origin was drawn. Black tea origin marker metabolites proved that variety contributed more to the origin metabolite fingerprint than processing. The results support that 1H NMR metabolomics combined with machine learning can be used as an effective tool for the construction of black tea chemical fingerprints for quality assessment and fraud detection. • 219 black tea samples were analyzed by 1H NMR and 42 metabolites were identified. • Machine learning models (LDA, KNN, SVM, RF) were used for origin identification. • The discriminant rate of the random forest model for tea from 7 origins was 92.7%. • Caffeine, malic acid, lysine, and β -glucose identified as major chemical markers of origin. • Chemical fingerprinting of black tea varieties, processing, and origin was established. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND Brick tea usually contains very high fluoride, which may affect human health. Biosorbents have received much attention for selective removal of fluoride because of low cost, environmental friendliness, and relative safeness. RESULTS In the present study, a highly selective fluoride tea waste based biosorbent, namely, aluminum (Al) oxide decorated tea waste (Tea-Al), was successfully prepared. The Tea-Al biosorbent was characterized by energy-dispersive spectrometry, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, powder X-ray diffraction and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopic analysis. The Tea-Al sample exhibited remarkably selective adsorption for fluoride (52.90%), but a weaker adsorption for other major constituents of brick tea infusion, such as catechins, polyphenols and caffeine, under the same conditions. Fluoride adsorption by Tea-Al for different times obeyed the surface reaction and adsorption isotherms fit the Freundlich model. In addition, the fluoride adsorption mechanism appeared to be an ion exchange between hydroxyl and fluoride ions. CONCLUSION Results from this study demonstrated that Tea-Al is a promising biosorbent useful for the removal of fluoride in brick tea infusion. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, porous corn starch was loaded with Zr, Al, Fe or La to produce the composites PS-Zr, PS-Al, PS-Fe and PS-La. Fluoride adsorption from water was tested at different biosorbent dosages, contact times, solution pH values and initial fluoride concentrations. The biosorbents were characterized by microscopy and spectroscopy. PS-Zr was shown superior defluoridation capacity over a pH range of 3.0–9.0. The adsorption process could be described by the Langmuir isotherm model and the Lagergren pseudo-second-order kinetic model. The maximum fluoride adsorption capacity calculated to be for PS-Zr was 25.41 mg/g. Our results revealed that PS-Zr could be employed as an effective biosorbent for removal of fluoride from drinking water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The widespread use of bromadiolone and brodifacoum poses a threat to public health and initiates poisoning incidents. Conventional colorimetric enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs) suffer from poor sensitivity, making it difficult to meet the trace detection of analytes. In this work, we constructed a sensitive and label-free fluorescence immunoassay based on the in situ formation strategy, for the quantification of bromadiolone and brodifacoum in biological and food samples. Alkaline phosphatase, an essential enzyme in ELISA, catalyzed the substrate sodium ascorbyl phosphate to L -ascorbic acid, which reacted with ο-phenylenediamine and triggered an in situ fluorescence signal with excitation/emission wavelengths of 350/430 nm. To reduce the reaction time, Fe3+ was utilized for the in situ immunoassay system. The fluorescence signal system was introduced to conventional ELISA without any label procedures, thus resulting in higher sensitivity with a 3.8-fold improvement in the half-maximal inhibitory concentration for bromadiolone, compared with colorimetric ELISA. The calculated limits of detection for bromadiolone and brodifacoum were 0.45–0.76 and 0.34–0.58 ng/mL (ng/g) in the human serum and corn samples, respectively, with recovery values ranging from 82.0 % to 93.1 %, and a coefficient of variation lower than 13.4 %. Due to its advantages of high sensitivity, cost-effectiveness, and easy substrate fabrication, this immunoassay may offer promise for applications in poisoning diagnosis and food analysis of bromadiolone and brodifacoum. • The signal transfer mechanism of in situ fluorescence immunoassay is explored. • The assay is applied for the simultaneous detection of bromadiolone and brodifacoum. • Oxidation action of Fe3+ reduces reaction time by 30 min in fluorescence immunoassay. • A 3.8-fold improvement for IC 50 is observed compared with colorimetric ELISA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of plant proteins as stabilizers for Pickering emulsions is attracting attention in the food industry. Herein, a protein extract with a high hydrophobic content (extraction ratio up to 21.6%) was obtained from the byproduct generated by the extraction of oil from Camellia oleifera. The effects of different oil-towater ratios and protein concentrations on the stability and rheological properties of the Pickering emulsions were investigated. A stabile emulsion that exhibited gel characteristics was made using an oil:water ratio of 6.5:3.5 and a protein concentration of 3%. The EGCG encapsulation efficiency of the Pickering emulsion was 82.3%. The emulsion remained stable during different environmental pressures (pH, ionic strength, heat, UV) and long-term storage, effectively protecting EGCG from chemical degradation in extreme environments. In vitro digestion results showed that the Pickering emulsion significantly delayed the release of EGCG from 80.52% to 26.81% and that the bioaccessibility of the EGCG was increased by 30.8% in the intestine when incorporated into the Pickering emulsion compared to free EGCG. This research indicates that Camellia oleifera seed cake could be used in plant-based protein emulsions for improved nutrient delivery. • The extraction rate of protein in Camellia oleifera seed cake reached 21.6%. • 3.0% COSCP concentration and 6.5:3.5 oil to water ratio can form Pickering emulsion. • The EGCG encapsulation efficiency of the Pickering emulsion reached 82.3%. • COSCP Pickering emulsion increased EGCG bioaccessibility by 30.8%. • COSCP Pickering emulsion can control the release of hydrophilic components. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a neutral lipid storage organelle, lipid droplets play fundamental roles in cell metabolism and growth. In this study, we developed three fluorescent probe targeting lipid droplets with D-A type structures based on naphthalimido derivatives, which were named as TPA-NDI-1 , TPA-NDI-2 and TPA-NDI-3. Interestingly, the three compounds exhibited polarity-sensitive properties which emitted greenyellow fluorescence in toluene and red fluorescence in dichloromethane. Meanwhile, they all possessed AIE effect in mixed solution of DMSO/H 2 O, which were suitable to intracellular lipid droplets imaging. Moreover, the three probes exhibited excellent pH and kinetic stability, low biotoxicity and large Stokes shift. All these properties suggest that the three compounds can be used as potential probes for lipid droplets visualized detection. Three D-A type molecules based on naphthalimido derivatives named as TPA-NDI-1 , TPA-NDI-2 and TPA-NDI-3 were obtained. They all possessed excellent AIE performance and polarity response ability caused by TICT originated the rational designed structure. The large Stokes shift, high pH and kinetic stability and specificity to LDs made them be suit for intracellular LDs visualized detection. [Display omitted] • Three D-A architecture molecules with AIE and TICT were obtained. • The target compounds possessed excellent lipid droplets targeting ability and polarity response performance. • The three lipid droplets probes exhibited large Stokes shift, high pH and kinetic stability and low biotoxicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chinese prickly ash, or huajiao (Zanthoxylum bungeanum Maxim), is the widely favored species of this spice by both the agricultural industry and the gourmet market. The geographic origin of the spice can add value, creating challenges for quality control and brand protection. In this study, 160 samples from four main production regions were analyzed by 1H NMR spectroscopy for the first time. Data analysis was performed based on 32 non-polar metabolites. Several machine learning algorithms were tested to build classification models. The best modeling results were obtained by using the non-linear discriminant random forest model, achieving an overall accuracy of 100% for the training set, 95.7% for the test set, and 87.5% for the blind dataset. The main marker compounds responsible for distinguishing these four origins were linalool, linalyl acetate, nonanal, and ocimene. This study provides a method to use 1H NMR combined with chemometrics to determine the origin of the huajiao. • First study of non-polar metabolites in huajiao samples using 1H NMR. • 160 huajiao samples were analyzed by 1H NMR and 32 metabolites were identified. • The discriminant rate (test set) of the random forest model for huajiao from 4 origins was 95.7%. • Linalool, linalyl acetate, nonanal, and ocimene identified as major chemical markers of origin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research explored the use of oleogel which was comprised of camellia oil instead of solid fat in ice cream, and not only optimized the process of oleogel ice cream production by single factor response surface experiment, but also characterized it. By comparing oleogel ice cream to two ice creams (camellia oil ice cream and butter ice cream), the results showed that the overrun rate of oleogel ice cream was higher than camellia oil ice cream, and the melting rate was lower than that of butter ice cream. Besides, the hardness of camellia oleogel ice cream was moderate, and the first dropping time of oleogel ice cream was no significant difference with the butter ice creams, whereas longer than that of camellia oil ice cream. Both the viscosity and fat globule instability of the oleogel ice cream was the highest. The unsaturated fatty acids (UFA) content of the oleogel ice cream was significantly increased compared with the butter ice cream. Overall, the comprehensive properties of oleogel ice cream were the best. This research expanded the application of oil gel and provided a reference for the development of ice cream products. [Display omitted] • The optimum processing parameters of oleogel ice cream were determined. • The fatty acids in oleogel ice cream were mainly unsaturated fatty acids. • The overall quality of oleogel ice cream was improved. • The sensory features of oleogel ice cream was readily acceptable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The geographical origin of American ginseng modelled using HS-GC-MS and HPLC. • Statistics combine with metabolite allow an excellent separation of PDO and non-PDO samples. • Novel use of aroma and saponin data combined with RF yielded 100% correct classification. • The statistical model is stable over years and can be used for routine analysis. American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius L.) is protected by Geographical Indications as harvested roots have different regional characteristics. The aim of this study was to distinguish 95 American ginseng samples from four origins (including America, Canada, Shandong province and the Northeast provinces in China), and to further discriminate samples harvested within the protected designation of origin (PDO) from those harvested in non-PDO regions. Two metabolomic methods were used to acquire qualitative data on the metabolites of American ginseng samples from different origins, namely high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and headspace-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (HS-GC-MS). There were significant differences in numerous metabolites, including volatile compounds and ginsenosides. American ginsengs from four different regions were discriminated based on 25 volatile compounds and 8 ginsenosides using linear discriminant analysis (LDA), which had a 96.8% accuracy and a 74.7% cross validation rate, and random forest (RF) modeling, which reached 100% accuracy using the training set and 92.9% accuracy using the testing set. The same 33 analytes combined with LDA and RF were compared for discrimination of PDO and non-PDO samples. The 100% accuracy was again obtained using the RF model, but only when using data from both HS-GC-MS and HPLC. The result showed that chemical composition combined with chemometric is effectively and accurately to study the origins of American ginseng. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Summarized the detection technology used in the identification of tea origin. • Summarized the application of chemometrics for authentication in tea. • Summarized the relevant factors affecting the identification of tea origin. • Prospected the application of rapid detection technology in tea discrimination. Tea is one of the most important beverages worldwide, is produced in several distinct geographical regions, and is traded on the global market. The ability to determine the geographical origin of tea products helps to ensure authenticity and traceability. This paper reviews the recent research on authentication of tea using a combination of instrumental and chemometric methods. To determine the production region of a tea sample, instrumental methods based on analyzing isotope and mineral element contents are suitable because they are less affected by tea variety and processing methods. Chemometric analysis has proven to be a valuable method to identify tea. Principal component analysis (PCA) and linear discriminant analysis (LDA) are the most preferred methods for processing large amounts of data obtained through instrumental component analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Volatile compounds were identified from 306 black teas using HS-GC/MS. • Forty-eight aroma compounds were common among global tea samples. • Full-spectrum GC/MS data was analyzed using k -Nearest Neighbor. • Discriminant rates of tea from 10 origins were 100%. • Geraniol to linalool ratio in black tea is key for identification of origin. Some black teas demand high market prices. Black tea samples (306) collected from 10 geographic origins, including China (Guxi, Likou, Jinzipai, Guichi, Dongzhi, Changning, Wuyishan, Shaowu), India (Darjeeling), and Sri Lanka (Kandy), were analyzed using headspace volatilization followed by GC/MS (HS-GC/MS). Forty-eight volatile compounds were identified. The aroma compounds were mainly identified as alcohols, aldehydes, ketones, and esters. Analysis of either full-spectrum data or 22 tea compounds shared among the samples with k -Nearest Neighbor (k -NN) and Random Forest (RF) models discriminated all origins at 100% using KNN and 95% with RF using either data set. The discrimination rates using 2 key aroma compounds (linalool and geraniol) by k -NN were 100% for nine origins, with the rate for Guxi area at 89%, because 3 samples were classified to Jinzipai. The findings support the use of HS-GC/MS combined with chemometrics as a tool to identify the origin of black tea. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of benzoxazole-pyridinium salt derivatives with two-photon excited fluorescence performance were synthesized and fully characterized. Among them, compounds 2 , 3 and 4 were the isomers with different positions of pyridine N, while compounds 4N , 4S , 4P , 4F and 4B were derived from compound 4 through anion exchanging reaction. Their photophysical properties had been systematically investigated, and the results indicated that the position of pyridine N and the type of anions had a significant influence on their optical properties and bio-imaging application. Transforming the position of pyridine N could affect their fluorescence quantum obviously; the maximum fluorescence quantum is 0.21 for compound 3 in DMF. Meanwhile, we found that the altering anions might be used to regulate their two-photon fluorescence performance, only compounds 4N , 4P and 4B possessed excellent two-photon excited fluorescence emissions, and the highest two-photon cross-section was 1868.69 GM for compound 4B in DMF. In addition, two-photon fluorescence cell imaging experiment demonstrated the potential bio-application of partial compounds with good photostability and low cytotoxicity. A series of water solubility of benzoxazole-pyridium salt derivatives including compounds 2 , 3 , 4 , 4N , 4F , 4P , 4S and 4B with excellent two-photon excited fluorescence performance were synthesized and applied in biological imaging. The structure-property relationship study showed that the position of pyridine N and the type of anions have a significant influence on their optical properties and bio-imaging application. [Display omitted] •The structure of target compounds was determined by HR MS with positive and negative ion model. •Counter anions had a influence on the two-photon excited fluorescence emissions. •The position isomerization of pyridine N affected their biological imaging performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Total of 22 and 2 metabolites for neonicotinoid and organophosphate were identified. • Targets and their metabolites were found mainly accumulated in the tea leaves. • Concentration of neonicotinoid is higher than that of organophosphate in tea plant. • Concentration of neonicotinoid' metabolite is much lower than that of organophosphate. • Toxicity of acephate and dimethoate in tea reached to1.5 and 3.7 folds on day 7. The absorption, distribution, metabolism and primary risk evaluation data of four neonicotinoids and two organophosphate insecticides in tea plant (Camellia sinensis L.) were compared. 22 neonicotinoid metabolites and 2 organophosphate metabolites were identified. The amount ratio of each neonicotinoid metabolite to its corresponding parent (M/P) was lower than 0.076 in the treated time. The organophosphates (omethoate and methamidophos) increased sharply, with M/P s as high as 1.111 and 0.612. The risks evaluation of insecticides and their metabolites in treated leaves on day seven showed that the chronic risk was from the lowest 0.0759 (clothianidin) to highest 43.6409% (dimethoate), and the acute risk was highest 0.0370 for all targets. The calculated combined toxicity of leaves treated with acephate reached 1.5 folds in mature, 1.5 folds in tender leaves than no metabolites, and which of dimethoate were 2.1 folds in mature and 3.7 folds in tender leaves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Camellia seed shell waste was calcined in the presence of ZrO 2 in one step. • Camellia seed shell biochar could adsorb fluoride after zirconium treatment. • ZrO 2 particles were loaded onto zirconium dioxide-biochar surface. • Zirconium dioxide-biochar had a high adsorption capacity over the pH 3–9. Zirconium dioxide-biochar (ZrO 2 /BC) with excellent fluoride adsorption properties, was successfully prepared by calcining the zirconium-impregnated byproduct from Camellia oleifera (C. oleifera) seed shell in a one-step method. Compared with C. oleifera seed biochar, the zirconium-impregnated C. oleifera seed shell biochar can effectively adsorb fluoride in water. The adsorption process is consistent with a pseudo second-order kinetic model and the Langmuir adsorption isotherm. Fluoride adsorption was tested in solutions ranging from pH to obtain the best pH value for adsorption. The fluoride adsorption mechanism was better understood by Zeta potential analysis. Thermodynamic studies indicated that the adsorption process was a spontaneous endothermic reaction. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Energy-Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analyses revealed that the morphology and crystal form of the ZrO 2 /BC were improved and that fluoride could be effectively absorbed. Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) were used to show how ZrO 2 affects the surface of the zirconium-biochar and to show that the fluoride was removed from the water by ion exchange. This work can not only effectively remove fluoride from the water, but also reuse waste C. oleifera seed to reduce environmental pollution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Roasted sunflower seeds contain high levels of unsaturated fatty acids, which are susceptible to oxidative rancidity when they are stored under inappropriate conditions. This lipid oxidation affects the quality of roasted sunflower seeds. Rancidity components (mainly including 11 aldehydes, 1 alcohol, 2 ketones, 1 acid and 1 furan) were identified in roasted sunflower seeds using HS-GC-MS-O (headspace-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry-olfactometry). Sunflower seeds harvested within the last year and those stored for one or two years were used to produce roasted sunflower seeds. The roasted sunflower seeds were stored at room temperature for 160 days and analyzed by HS-GC-MS-O. In roasted sunflower seeds, 16 rancidity compounds showed similar increasing trends with age of raw material, while the levels of the pyrazine compounds did not change during storage. Nonanal, hexanoic acid, 2,4-nonadienal, and heptanal were determined to be responsible for the off-flavor of the rancid products, and could be used to discriminate between final products made fresh and stored raw materials. • 16 rancidity compounds were identified in the accelerated rancidity roasted sunflower seeds sample. • There is no obviously change for pyrazine during rancidity of roasted sunflower seeds. • The oxidation behavior of roasted sunflower seeds made from different harvests year's materials was investigated. • The shelf-life of roasted sunflower seeds made from different harvests year's materials was significant difference. • Four markers can be used to discriminate produce made from raw martial of different storage time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chemical pesticides are commonly used during the cultivation of agricultural products to control pests and diseases. Excessive use of traditional pesticides can cause environmental and human health risks. There are ongoing searches for new plant-derived pesticides to reduce the use of chemical pesticides. In this study, tea saponin extracts of different purities were extracted from Camellia oleifera seeds using AB-8 macroporous resin and gradient elution with ethanol. The insecticidal effects of the tea saponin extracts were evaluated by contact toxicity tests and stomach toxicity tests using the lepidopteran pest of tea plantation, Ectropis obliqua. The total saponins extracted using 70% ethanol showed strong contact toxicity (LC50 = 8.459 mg/L) and stomach toxicity (LC50 = 22.395 mg/L). In-depth mechanistic studies demonstrated that tea saponins can disrupt the waxy layer of the epidermis, causing serious loss of water, and can penetrate the inside of the intestine of E. obliqua. After consumption of the tea saponins, the intestinal villi were shortened and the cavities of the intestinal wall were disrupted, which resulted in larval death. This study highlights the potential of tea saponins as a natural, plant-derived pesticide for the management of plant pests. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]