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This investigation delves into the development of cupric oxide functionalized activated carbon fabrics (ACF@CuO) as a filter material for self-decontaminating protective clothing designed to counter chemical warfare agents (CWAs). Three variants of samples were developed by controlling functionalization levels (7.5%, 13.0%, 16.0% w/w) through optimized precursor concentrations, integrating CuO particles onto ACF surfaces. Comprehensive analysis using techniques like FTIR, BET surface area, SEM, EDX, STEM, XRD, TGA, and XPS explored the material's properties. The studies concentrated on evaluating the performance through kinetic studies of self-detoxification of CWA Sarin (GB) using developed ACF@CuO materials analyzed by Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS). ACF@CuO with 16% w/w functionalization exhibited superior self-decontamination against GB, achieving 92.87% efficiency within 18 hours, in contrast to 26.55% for ACF alone. Additionally, materials were tested for tensile strength, air-permeability, and Sulfur Mustard breakthrough time (HDBTT) as per IS 17377:2020 standard. The material with 13% w/w functionalization emerged as the recommended filter layer for CWA protective clothing designed for defense and civilian safety applications. The significant improvements in the self-decontamination efficiency of the material were attributed to the synergistic effects of ACF's adsorption capabilities combined with the decontamination properties of CuO rod-shaped crystals embedded in the surface of ACF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ectomycorrhizal fungi in the genus Tuber form hypogeous fruiting bodies called truffles. Many Tuber species are highly prized due to their edible and aromatic ascomata. Historically, there has been attention on cultivating and selling European truffle species, but there is growing interest in cultivating, wild-harvesting, and selling species of truffles endemic to North America. North America has many endemic Tuber species that remain undescribed, including some that have favorable culinary qualities. Here, we describe two such Tuber species from eastern North America. Maximum likelihood and Bayesian phylogenetic analyses of ITS (internal transcribed spacer), tef1 (translation elongation factor 1-alpha), and rpb2 (second largest subunit of RNA polymerase II) sequences were used to place these species within a phylogenetic context. We coupled these data with morphological analyses and volatile analyses based on gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. Tuber cumberlandense, sp. nov. (previously referred to as Tuber sp. 66), is a member of the Rufum clade that has been opportunistically harvested for commercial sale from T. melanosporum orchards across eastern North America. Tuber canirevelatum, sp. nov. belongs in the Macrosporum clade and thus far is only known from eastern Tennessee, USA. Both new species were discovered with the assistance of trained truffle dogs. The volatile profiles of T. canirevelatum and T. cumberlandense were measured in order to characterize aromas based on the chemical compounds produced by these fungi. Ascomata from both species were enriched in acetone, dimethyl sulfide, 1-(methylthio)-1-propene, and 1-(methylthio)propane. In this work, we celebrate and encourage the use of trained truffle-hunting dogs for fungal biodiversity discovery and research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rationale: The early identification of children with poorly controlled asthma is imperative for optimizing treatment strategies. The analysis of exhaled volatile organic compounds (VOCs) is an emerging approach to identify prognostic and diagnostic biomarkers in pediatric asthma. Objectives: To assess the accuracy of gas chromatography–mass spectrometry–based exhaled metabolite analysis to differentiate between controlled and uncontrolled pediatric asthma. Methods: This study encompassed discovery (SysPharmPediA [Systems Pharmacology Approach to Uncontrolled Paediatric Asthma]) and validation (U-BIOPRED [Unbiased Biomarkers for the Prediction of Respiratory Disease Outcomes] and PANDA [Paediatric-Asthma-Non-Invasive-Diagnostic-Approaches]) phases. First, exhaled VOCs that discriminated degrees of asthma control were identified. Subsequently, outcomes were validated in two independent cohorts. Patients were classified as controlled or uncontrolled on the basis of asthma control test scores and the number of severe attacks in the past year. In addition, the potential of VOCs to predict two or more future severe asthma attacks in SysPharmPediA was evaluated. Measurements and Main Results: Complete data were available for 196 children (SysPharmPediA, n = 100; U-BIOPRED, n = 49; PANDA, n = 47). In SysPharmPediA, after randomly splitting the population into training (n = 51) and test (n = 49) sets, three compounds (acetophenone, ethylbenzene, and styrene) distinguished between patients with uncontrolled and controlled asthma. The areas under the receiver operating characteristic curves (AUROCCs) for training and test sets were, respectively, 0.83 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.65–1.00) and 0.77 (95% CI, 0.58–0.96). Combinations of these VOCs resulted in AUROCCs of 0.74 ± 0.06 (U-BIOPRED) and 0.68 ± 0.05 (PANDA). Attack prediction tests resulted in AUROCCs of 0.71 (95% CI, 0.51–0.91) and 0.71 (95% CI, 0.52–0.90) for the training and test sets. Conclusions: Exhaled metabolite analysis might enable asthma control classification in children. This should stimulate the further development of exhaled metabolite–based point-of-care tests in asthma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this research, for the first time, 16 polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in 33 types of honey samples have been analyzed using an efficient, sensitive and rapid high-density solvent-microextraction (HDS-ME) technique coupled to gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Important parameters in the extraction process were optimized using central composite design (CCD). Good linear relationships were chosen for 16 PAHs in the range of 1–200 ng g−1, with a correlation coefficient (R2) higher than 0.94. The limits of detection and limits of quantification were 0.3–0.8 ng g−1 and 0.9–2.4 ng g−1, respectively. The relative standard deviations for six similar analyses at the optimized point were less than 9%. The recoveries of the proposed method were obtained between 86% and 102%. High recovery, low consumption of the solvent, speed, ease of use and good elimination of matrix interference compared to other methods are the advantages of the proposed method. The performance of the present work was confirmed by the standard addition method and satisfactory results were obtained. The concentrations of PAHs in honey samples were found lower than 11 ng g−1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to inadequate treatment, diabetes mellitus, which is characterized by hyperglycemia, is a global health challenge that requires creative management techniques. This study explores the therapeutic potential of Abelmoschus esculentus L. Moench fruit extracts in diabetes, offering an ample approach includes phytochemical analysis, qualitative and quantitative assessments, antidiabetic efficacy, antioxidant potential, and in vivo and in vitro investigations. Thin‐layer chromatography (TLC), high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) were utilized to disclose the phytochemical profile of the fruit extracts, which indicated a diverse range of bioactive compounds. Four polyphenolic compounds including chlorogenic acid, quercetin, rutin, and morin were confirmed by HPLC fingerprinting, with rutin being the most prevalent. Qualitative analysis reveals the presence of carbohydrates, emodin, terpenoids, lignin, glycosides, and anthraquinones, while indicating the absence of amino acids, anthocyanins, phlobatannins, lactones, and leucoanthocyanins. Quantitative analysis reveals total phenolic, tannin, and flavonoid. In vitro assessments demonstrate the ability of the extracts to inhibit alpha amylase. Radical scavenging activities were evaluated through DPPH assay, underscoring their antioxidant capacity with high effect in methanol extracts. Additionally, the methanol extract decreased the blood glucose level of Type 2 diabetic mice. Notably, test samples stabilized blood glucose levels, reversed deviations in blood profile parameters, blood biochemistry, and regulated organ weight. Based on its antioxidant and antidiabetic effects, as well as positive effects on the physiology of Type 2 diabetic mice, A. esculentus emerges as an important nutraceutical vegetable. As an important nutraceutical vegetable, it holds promise for diabetes management. A. esculentus can be incorporated into dietary interventions for individuals with diabetes, harnessing its natural antioxidant and antidiabetic properties. Our findings validate the traditional use of A. esculentus in green therapeutics. In conclusion, A. esculentus emerges as a valuable ally in the fight against diabetes, bridging the gap between ancient wisdom and modern science. Further research and practical implementation are warranted to fully realize its potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Practical Application Unlike many commercial sweeteners for which sweetness dose‐response curves have been constructed, honey's sweetness has yet to be quantified. Honey differs from most commercial sweeteners in that it has a robust aroma; this aroma may impact its perceived sweetness. This study quantified the sweetness intensity and the impact of aroma on the perceived sweetness of four different honey varieties (clover, wildflower, alfalfa, and orange) compared to sucrose. Each sweetener evaluated was diluted to six concentrations in water ranging from 12.5 g/L to 125 g/L. Panelists (n = 55) rated the sweetness intensities with and without aroma, in replicate, on the Global Sensory Intensity Scale. Additionally, the volatile organic compounds in the honey samples were profiled using gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry (GC/MS) analysis. Honey and sugar were equivalently sweet at a given concentration (g/L), with aroma present (p = 0.251). Additionally, honey and sugar were not equivalently sweet without aroma; aroma significantly increased sweetness intensities for all sweeteners (p = 0.042) and especially honeys. In a 100 g/L solution, the aromas in honey increased its sweetness by 23%–43%, depending on the floral source. Compounds with sweet aroma characteristics were identified at high concentrations in all honey samples using GC/MS analysis, including furfural, benzaldehyde, benzene acetaldehyde, and dimethyl sulfide. Additionally, (S)‐limonene and toluene were present in high quantities in the orange and alfalfa samples. This study can inform appropriate honey usage levels and identify major volatiles that may enhance sweetness.Honey sweetness has not been determined quantitatively, despite the widespread use of honey among consumers and product formulators. Sweetness enhancement by honey aroma volatiles may support a reduction in added sugars while maintaining sweetness intensity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

MonoTrapTM was introduced in 2009 as a novel miniaturized configuration for sorptive sampling. The method for the characterization of volatile organic compound (VOC) emission profiles from hot mix asphalt (HMA) consisted of a two-step procedure: the analytes, initially adsorbed into the coating in no vacuum- or vacuum-assistance mode, were then analyzed following an automated thermal desorption (TD) step. We took advantage of the theoretical formulation to reach some conclusions on the relationship between the physical characteristics of the monolithic material and uptake rates. A total of 35 odor-active volatile compounds, determined by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry/olfactometry analysis, contributed as key odor compounds for HMA, consisting mainly of aldehydes, alcohols, and ketones. Chemometric analysis revealed that MonoTrapTM RGC18-TD was the better coating in terms of peak area and equilibrium time. A comparison of performance showed that Vac/no-Vac ratios increased, about an order of magnitude, as the boiling point of target analytes increased. The innovative hybrid adsorbent of silica and graphite carbon monolith technology, having a large surface area bonded with octadecylsilane, showed effective adsorption capability, especially to polar compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, a micro-solid-phase extraction technique employing polylactic acid (PLA)/ZnO-chitosan bio-nanocomposites was developed to isolate selected triazines from aqueous environments. Subsequently, the isolated analytes were injected into gas chromatography–mass spectrometry instrument following solvent desorption. The PLA bio-nanocomposites, incorporating varying concentrations of synthesized ZnO-chitosan, were fabricated utilizing the solvent casting method. The PLA/ZnO-chitosan bio-nanocomposites and ZnO-chitosan hybrid nanoparticles were analytically characterized by the use of field emission scanning electron microscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, tensile testing, and X-ray diffraction. Tensile tests showed that adding ZnO-chitosan hybrid nanoparticles to PLA increased both its tensile strength and elongation at break. Key parameters of the extraction process involving PLA/ZnO-chitosan bio-nanocomposites such as nanoparticle concentration, ionic strength, sample pH, extraction duration, and solvent choice were meticulously examined and optimized. The refined extraction device exhibited high sensitivity and rapidity, achieving analytical parameters with a detection limit ranging from 0.85 to 2.5 ng L−1 and a quantification limit between 5 and 10 ng L−1. Equilibrium was attained within 20 min. Over a concentration range of 10–1000 ng L–1, the method showed linearity, with a correlation value higher than 0.9997. Having a relative standard deviation between 4 and 8%, repeatability was confirmed at 100 ng L−1. Ultimately, the proposed extraction device's effectiveness was confirmed by successfully recovering specific analytes from natural water samples, with relative recovery percentages ranging from 98 to 102%, indicative of negligible matrix interference. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a complex disorder that impacts both the endocrine and metabolic systems, often resulting in infertility, obesity, insulin resistance, and cardiovascular complications. The aim of this study is to investigate the role of intestinal flora and its metabolites, particularly short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), in the development of PCOS, and to assess the effects of metformin therapy on these components. SCFA levels in fecal and blood samples from women with PCOS ( n = 69 ) and healthy controls ( n = 18 ) were analyzed using Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (GC/MS) for precise measurement. Fecal microbiota were quantitatively detected by real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). To assess the efficacy of six months of metformin treatment, changes in the microbiota and SCFAs in the PCOS group ( n = 69 ) were also evaluated. The results revealed that women with PCOS exhibited a significant reduction in beneficial bacteria (namely, the C. leptum group and Prevotella spp.) alongside a notable overgrowth of opportunistic microorganisms (C. perfringens, C. difficile, Staphylococcus spp., and Streptococcus spp.). An overproduction of acetic acid (AA, FC = 0.47 , p < 0.05 ) and valeric acid (VA, FC = 0.54 , p < 0.05 ) suggests a link between elevated SCFAs and the development of obesity and PCOS. Interestingly, AA in the bloodstream might offer a protective effect against PCOS by ameliorating key symptoms such as high body mass index ( r = − 0.33 , p = 0.02 ), insulin resistance ( r = − 0.39 , p = 0.02 ), and chronic inflammation. Although serum SCFA levels showed non-significant changes following metformin treatment ( p > 0.05 ), the normalization of AA in the gut underscores that metformin exerts a more pronounced effect locally within the gastrointestinal tract. Furthermore, the study identified the most effective model for predicting the success of metformin therapy, based on serum concentrations of butyric acid (BA) and VA, achieving a 91% accuracy rate, 100% sensitivity, and 80% specificity. These promising findings highlight the potential for developing targeted interventions and personalized treatments, ultimately improving clinical outcomes for women with PCOS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Soaking of soybeans is an essential step in tempe fermentation. Owing to the uncontrolled microflora, spontaneous soaking during tempe production leads to inconsistencies in tempe quality. Common methods to control it include the addition of acids or microbial starters. Despite knowing the benefits, their impact on tempe's composition was less understood. In this study, prior to tempe fungal fermentation, soybeans were soaked with Lactiplantibacillus plantarum NBRC 101978 and Pichia burtonii NBRC 0844. Tempe samples were subjected to comprehensive analysis using a widely targeted gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) metabolomics approach and evaluation of physical characteristics. A total of 100 metabolites of sugars, amino acids, fatty acids, and organic acids were annotated in all samples. Principal component analysis (PCA) explaining 47.6% of the variance showed that microbial interventions led to alterations in the metabolome of all samples, including the accumulation of amino acids in lactic acid bacteria (LAB)‐soaked soybean tempe and tyramine in yeast‐soaked soybean tempe. Unlike chemically added soaked soybean tempe, microbial intervention significantly reduced the relative intensity levels of several sugars by more than twofold. Furthermore, microbial interventions in the tempe‐soaking step significantly elevated the levels of bioactive metabolites more than twofold. The introduction of microbial interventions in the tempe‐soaking step also influences the physical characteristics of the end product. These findings merit further consideration for tempe development and the food industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The culture of a cyanobacterium 'Anabaena' sp. was isolated from alluvial meadow soils in the south of Russia and deposited in the IPPAS collection of cultures of microalgae and cyanobacteria, Timiryazev Institute of Plant Physiology, Russian Academy of Sciences, under the number IPPAS B-2020. Phylogenetic analysis showed that the studied strain belongs to a clade comprising the genera Sphaerospermopsis, Amphiheterocytum, Raphidiopsis, Wollea, and Neowollea, but cannot currently be assigned to any of them. The phytotoxicity and fungicidal and antioxidant activities of the strain were studied. The culture turned out to be non-toxic. Water–alcohol extract and biomass of 'Anabaena' sp. IPPAS B-2020 completely suppressed the micromycetes Fusarium culmorum, F. graminearum, and F. sporotrichioides with the maximum diameter of growth inhibition zone of 2.5 cm. The water extract of cyanobacteria 'Anabaena' sp. IPPAS B-2020 had a pronounced antioxidant activity (39.3%). Among the metabolites of 'Anabaena' sp. IPPAS B-2020, there were organic acids (citric, lactic, acetic), terpenes, alkanes, alcohols, and other low molecular weight organic compounds. The 'Anabaena' sp. IPPAS B-2020 culture is of interest for biotechnology as a producer of such important biologically active compounds as tributyl phosphate, D-limonene, squalene, and α-pinene. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Bisphenol A (BPA), an organic compound used to produce polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resins, has become a ubiquitous contaminant due to its high-volume production and constant release to the environment. Plant metabolomics can trace the stress effects induced by environmental contaminants to the variation of specific metabolites, making it an alternative way to study pollutants toxicity to plants. Nevertheless, there is an important knowledge gap in metabolomics applications in this area. Objective: Evaluate the influence of BPA in French lettuce (Lactuca Sativa L. var capitata) leaves metabolic profile by gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (GC–MS) using a hydroponic system. Methods: Lettuces were cultivated in the laboratory to minimize biological variation and were analyzed 55 days after sowing (considered the plant’s adult stage). Hexanoic and methanolic extracts with and without derivatization were prepared for each sample and analyzed by GC–MS. Results: The highest number of metabolites was obtained from the hexanoic extract, followed by the derivatized methanolic extract. Although no physical differences were observed between control and contaminated lettuce leaves, the multivariate analysis determined a statistically significant difference between their metabolic profiles. Pathway analysis of the most affected metabolites showed that galactose metabolism, starch and fructose metabolism and steroid biosynthesis were significantly affected by BPA exposure. Conclusions: The preparation of different extracts from the same sample permitted the determination of metabolites with different physicochemical properties. BPA alters the leaves energy and membrane metabolism, plant growth could be affected at higher concentrations and exposition times. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vitamin D is a hormone-like vitamin that plays a primary physiological role in regulating calcium metabolism. In addition to endogenous synthesis through sunlight exposure, dietary supplementation with vitamin D is indispensable for maintaining optimal vitamin D levels. To ensure precision and efficacy in quantifying daily vitamin D intake among the Japanese people, we established a method to measure vitamin D in food. This method optimizes instrument costs and streamlines cumbersome processes. Initially, thin-layer chromatography (TLC) was used to separate vitamin D from food samples, followed by a quantitative analysis using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) with deuterated vitamin D as an internal standard. Despite the elevated temperature conditions of GC-MS, which lead to the generation of thermal decomposition compounds, the method remains accurate and effective, with an limit of quantitation (LOQ) as low as 0.8 ng for vitamin D. Subsequently, we applied this method to quantify the vitamin D content in 120 meal samples. The meals, designed by a registered dietitian (RD), were served in the dormitory and cafeteria of a Japanese company. The total vitamin D content {mean ± standard deviation (SD)} was 14.7 ± 13.7 µg/day. The measured total vitamin D content in the meal samples, showing a congruent range of 15.7 ± 12.6 µg/day, closely aligned with the corresponding estimate derived from Excel Eiyou-kun. In summary, this study established a method using GC-MS to simultaneously measure vitamin D2 and D3 in meals, which may be suitable for analyzing food samples for their vitamin D content in large quantities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tissue contamination with persistent organic pollutants (POPs) in organisms proved possible to comprehensively characterize in a single test by combining gas chromatography and high-resolution accurate mass spectrometry. Adipose tissue samples were collected from two Caspian seals (Pusa caspica Gmelin, 1788) found dead on the Caspian Sea shore in 2020. Organochlorine pesticides, primarily DDT and HCH, and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) were major pollutants found in the Caspian seals. The distribution of metabolites indicated the absence of recent pesticide use. The PCB content was relatively high, but still at the lower limit of the range of values determined previously, as was also the case with pesticides. Chlordanes, polychlorinated naphthalenes, and polybrominated diphenyl ethers were detected in minor quantities and were therefore not considered to be major pollutants of the Caspian seal. The pollutant levels were below a threshold at which a distinct effect on seal health can be expected. High-resolution accurate mass (HRAM) spectrometry was found to provide a convenient tool for both targeted and nontargeted analyses of a wide range of organic pollutants in a single experiment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Main Conclusion: Microscopic analyses and chemical profiling demonstrate that the white rind phenotype in melon fruit is associated with the accumulation of n-alkanes, fatty alcohols, aldehydes and wax esters. Serving as an indicator of quality, the rind (or external) color of fruit directly affects consumer choice. A fruit’s color is influenced by factors such as the levels of pigments and deposited epicuticular waxes. The latter produces a white-grayish coating often referred to as “wax bloom”. Previous reports have suggested that some melon (Cucumis melo L.) accessions may produce wax blooms, where a dominant white rind color trait was genetically mapped to a major locus on chromosome 7 and suggested to be inherited as a single gene named Wi. We here provide the first direct evidence of the contribution of epicuticular waxes to the dominant white rind trait in melon fruit. Our light and electron microscopy and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC–MS) comparative analysis of melon accessions with white or green rinds reveals that the rind of melon fruit is rich in epicuticular waxes. These waxes are composed of various biochemical classes, including fatty acids, fatty alcohols, aldehydes, fatty amides, n-alkanes, tocopherols, triterpenoids, and wax esters. We show that the dominant white rind phenotype in melon fruit is associated with increased accumulation of n-alkanes, fatty alcohols, aldehydes and wax esters, which are linked with the deposition of crystal-like wax platelets on their surfaces. Together, this study broadens the understanding of natural variation in an important quality trait of melon fruit and promotes the future identification of the causative gene for the dominant white rind trait. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carvone, a natural monoterpene, has been identified in various plants, giving them a characteristic scent. Enantiomers (R-(–) and S-(+)) reveal specific biological activities that are successfully used in traditional medicine for their antifungal, antibacterial, antiparasitic, and anti-influenza properties. The presented paper is based on S-(+)-carvone, characterized by a specific caraway scent, which revealed rich biological activities both in vitro and in vivo. Thus, the aim of the study was to evaluate the potential anti-neurodegenerative activity of S-(+)-carvone, including in vitro experiments (butyrylcholinesterase inhibitory, neuro- and hepatotoxicity as well as neuro- and hepatoprotective activity), in vivo (memory acquisition, locomotor activity), and ex vivo (determination of S-(+)-carvone's level in tissues collected from mice). Results revealed the multidirectional character of S-(+)-carvone. It has been shown that S-(+)-carvone is capable of butyrylcholinesterase inhibition (40% for 0.025 mg applied onto the plate), and neuroprotection and hepatoprotection at selective concentrations against reactive oxygen species generation and lipid peroxidation along with non-hepatotoxicity character. Additionally, multiple-dose administration of the monoterpene at a dose of 100 mg/kg had a positive influence on memory acquisition. Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry analysis of the plasma and the brain showed that S-(+)-carvone can cross the blood–brain barrier and accumulate in the hippocampus (0.217 µg/mg of tissue), a crucial part of the brain associated with cognition and mental functions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim: Cryptosporidiosis is a major waterborne disease affecting ruminants and humans worldwide. It causes diarrhea and neonatal mortality in buffalo calves, and watery diarrhea and mortality in children and immunodeficient patients. This study aimed to investigate the efficacy of Myristica fragrans methanolic extract in treatment of C. parvum infection in comparison with nitazoxanide (NZX) (a Food and Drug Administration-approved drug control) in immunosuppressed and immunocompetent mice. Materials and Methods: One hundred laboratory-bred male Swiss albino mice were equally divided into immunocompetent and immunosuppressed groups. Each group was further divided into five subgroups: (1) non-infected and non-treated control, (2) infected and non-treated control (infected with Cryptosporidium parvum oocysts 3 × 10³ ), (3) NZX-treated (100 mg/kg, 200 µL/mouse), (4) M. fragrans Houtt. methanol extract-treated (500 mg/kg), and (5) combination-treated (NZX + M. fragrans extract). Number of oocysts/g of feces, serum immunoglobulin (Ig) G level, and interferon (IFN)-γ, and interleukin (IL)-4 levels were used to evaluate the therapeutic effect. Results: C. parvum oocyst shedding in stool samples was significantly decreased in all treatment groups, with 79.7%, 81.2 %, and 85.5 % reduction in immunocompetent mice treated with NZX, M. fragrans, and their combination, respectively. In immunosuppressed mice, oocyst shedding was reduced by 77.7%, 80.5 %, and 83.7 % upon NZX, M. fragrans, and their combination treatments, respectively. The serum IgG level was lowest in mice treated with a mixture of M. fragrans and NZX, followed by those treated with NZX, and was highest in mice treated with M. fragrans alone. Regarding cytokine levels, all groups treated with M. fragrans had low levels of IFN-γ and IL4 on day 21 post-infection. Conclusion: Collectively, the treatment of cryptosporidiosis with M. fragrans extract was successful in mice, as demonstrated by the measured parameters. M. fragrans reduced C. parvum oocyst shedding and serum IgG, IFN-γ, and IL-4 levels in immunocompetent and immunosuppressed mice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Grafting is a traditional research and crop production technique used to study the long-distance movement of molecules, reduce disease susceptibility, and improve yield, quality, and nutrient content. Tomato/potato grafts are rare examples of successful interspecies grafting, even resulting in commercially available products. Nevertheless, information on the effect of tomato on the quality parameters of potato tubers is scarce. In this study, the tomato cultivar 'Mobil' was grafted with the potato cultivars 'White Lady', 'Hópehely', and 'Désirée', and the phenotype, metabolite composition, and starch and protein contents of the tubers were analysed. Anthocyanins were isolated from the tuber skins, and the expression level of the transcription factor ANTHOCYANIN1 (StAN1) was evaluated. Out of the 112 identified metabolites, the concentrations of twelve compounds were altered in the same direction in all three cultivars. Compared to the self-grafted control, the starch content of tubers was increased in each cultivar, while the protein level remained unaltered in 'White Lady' and 'Hópehely'. The oval tubers became roundish. The tomato scion increased the anthocyanin content of 'Hópehely' and 'Désirée' tuber skins, which was correlated with the upregulation of StAN1 expression. These results indicate that tomato scion has a significant impact on the quality parameters of potato tubers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Ethion is an organophosphate used as an acaricide and insecticide, that is restricted worldwide. In Colombia, pesticide poisoning is the third most common cause of chemical intoxication. On 9 October 2022, an outbreak of ethion poisoning occurred in Pereira. The aim of this study was to describe the clinical and epidemiological characteristics of the outbreak. Methods: This is a descriptive study of an outbreak of organophosphate poisoning. The onset of symptoms occurred on 9 October 2022, following the consumption of empanadas. Information was collected on sociodemographic characteristics and clinical manifestations, as well as from paraclinical examinations. Data were obtained from clinical histories, field epidemiological investigations, and inspection visits. Food samples were collected for analysis by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Attack rates, proportions, and measures of central tendency, dispersion, and position were calculated. Results: The case definition was met by 37 individuals with a median age of 30 years; all presented with muscarinic symptoms, 29 patients presented with nicotinic symptoms, and 20 patients presented with neurological symptoms. Males were the most affected (57%), and the most common time of symptom onset was 10:00 am. Twenty-three patients (62%) required intensive care unit admission, of whom 14 (38%) required mechanical ventilation. No deaths were reported. Erythrocyte acetylcholinesterase activity was reduced in all patients. Ethion was detected in mass-prepared maize and empanadas at concentrations greater than 0.1 mg/kg. The consumption of empanadas was identified as the common source. Discussion: In Colombia, pesticide poisonings are the third most common type of poisoning caused by chemical substances reported to the National Health Institute through the National Public Health Surveillance System. In the present outbreak, ethion was in empanadas, likely due to contamination of cooking oil. Conclusions: We describe a large ethion-contaminated food poisoning outbreak reported in Colombia. The main symptoms were muscarinic, and the main treatment measures employed were atropine and respiratory support. Increased awareness of pesticide poisoning and training for food handlers are needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Methyltrimethoxysilane (MTMS) modified tin dioxide microspheres (MTMS/SnO2) were prepared by a facile hydrothermal method and heated reflux reaction strategy. The characterization results indicate that the modification of MTMS induced the formation of a hydrophobic network within the composites, while maintaining abundant adsorbed oxygen species. Subsequently, the MTMS/SnO2 microspheres were used as a solid-phase microextraction (SPME) coating for the efficient extraction and sensitive determination of trace polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in aqueous solutions coupled to gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. MTMS/SnO2 coating exhibited superior extraction performances for PCBs compared with commercial SPME and pure SnO2 microspheres coatings, owing to the hydrophobic crosslinking and adsorbed oxygen-enhanced hydrogen bonding. The proposed analytical method presented respectable linearity in the concentration range 0.25–1000 ng L−1, with low limits of detection varying from 0.036 to 0.14 ng L−1 for seven PCBs and excellent precision, with relative standard deviations of 5.7–9.8% for a single fiber and 8.2–13.1% for five fibers. Finally, the proposed method was successfully used for determination of PCBs in real water with recoveries ranging from 75.8 to 115.6%. This study proposed a new type SPME coating of MTMS/SnO2 microspheres, which extended the potential of SnO2 in capturing and determining organic pollutants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A rapid method is developed for the determination of bisphenol A (BPA) in ethanolic extracts by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS). The GC–MS method has acquired reference status in accredited analytical laboratories in identifying contaminant impurities in food and alcohol products. Bisphenol A is used as a monomer in the production of a number of plastics and epoxy resins; in its free form, it can be contained in quantities exceeding the permissible level in food containers. Bisphenol A can accumulate in a human body and cause harmful health effects. The studies were performed on an Agilent 8890 gas chromatograph equipped with a mass selective detector model 5977B and a 30 m long Ultra ALLOY®-5 UA5-30M-0.25F capillary column. Optimal modes for the determination of bisphenol A in ethanolic extracts were selected. The direct determination of BPA in ethyl solutions without derivatization using GC–MS can be recommended for the development of procedures for monitoring the quality and safety of food packaging, monitoring BPA in alcohol-containing liquids, as well as in forensic medical examination as a reference procedure to confirm the reliability of BPA identification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: This study investigated the effects of reducing sugars and protein‐to‐sugar ratios on generating volatile compounds from nutritional yeast hydrolysates after Maillard reaction. Nutritional yeast extract (NYE) was cleaved using Flavourzyme® at an enzyme‐to‐substrate ratio of 0.5% w/w, followed by heat treatment with varying concentrations of reducing sugars (i.e., hexoses: glucose and fructose and pentoses: xylose and ribose). The results showed that pentoses generate higher numbers and concentrations of volatiles than hexoses, especially furans, Strecker aldehydes, and sulphur‐containing compounds such as dimethyl disulphide. However, hexoses produced higher concentrations of pyrazines. Strecker aldehydes and pyrazines served as key aroma‐active compounds in meat aroma. Likewise, sulphur‐containing compounds played an important role in meat aroma due to their low detection threshold. The results showed that reducing sugars significantly impacts the volatile profile of NYE, potentially influencing the formation of meaty aroma compounds. These findings demonstrate the potential of MRPs to enhance meaty flavours due to the presence of volatile compounds with characteristics of cooked meat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phytoncides and aromatherapy scents mainly derive from plant secondary metabolites and are now well known for their health benefits. In this study, we analyzed the chemical composition of the leaf-derived essential oil of Liquidambar formosana (Altingiaceae) using GC-MS; we also investigated the VOCs released from L. formosana leaves and the leaf essential oil at different temperatures by means of headspace gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (HS-GC-MS). Regarding the VOCs of the leaves, monoterpenes predominated the VOCs at both temperatures, mainly comprising sabinene, followed by γ-terpinene, α-terpinene, and α-pinene. The intensity of the leaf VOCs at 50 °C was nearly three times higher than that at 25 °C; the emission of monoterpenes significantly increases at higher environmental temperatures. The VOC emissions of oxygenated monoterpenes from the leaf essential oil increased at higher temperatures (50 °C), especially those of terpinen-4-ol. Our results reveal that HS-GC-MS can be used to conveniently and directly analyze the VOCs emitted from L. formosana leaves and their essential oils and to evaluate the influence of temperature on the composition of the VOCs of specimens. These VOC studies will assist in the sustainable development and utilization of L. formosana trees for forest therapy, as well as the use of their leaf essential oil for aromatherapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ferromanganese formations are widespread in the Earth's aquatic environment. Of all the mechanisms of their formation, the biogenic one is the most debatable. Here, we studied the Fe-Mn crusts of hydrothermal fields near the underwater volcano Puy de Folles (rift valley of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge). The chemical and mineralogical composition (optical and electron microscopy with EDX, X-ray powder diffraction, X-ray fluorescence analysis, Raman and FTIR spectroscopy, gas chromatography—mass spectrometry (GC-MS)) and the magnetic properties (static and resonance methods, including at cryogenic temperatures) of the samples of Fe-Mn crusts were investigated. In the IR absorption spectra, based on hydrogen bond stretching vibrations, it was concluded that there were compounds with aliphatic (alkane) groups as well as compounds with double bonds (possibly with a benzene ring). The GC-MS analysis showed the presence of alkanes, alkenes, hopanes, and steranes. Magnetically, the material is highly coercive; the blocking temperatures are 3 and 13 K. The main carriers of magnetism are ultrafine particles and X-ray amorphous matter. The analysis of experimental data allows us to conclude that the studied ferromanganese crusts, namely in their ferruginous phase, were formed as a result of induced biomineralization with the participation of iron-oxidizing and iron-reducing bacteria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work focuses on the profiling of semiochemicals (SCS) from Callosobruchus maculatus, Sitophilus oryzae and Tribolium castaneum by headspace solid-phase microextraction (HS-SPME) coupled with gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) technique. Totally, 6, 9 and 8 volatile compounds (VCS) were detected from C. maculatus, S. oryzae and T. castaneum, respectively. As a result of pherobase analysis and preference bioassay, stearic acid (C. maculatus); nonanal, lauric acid and stearic acid (S. oryzae); stearic acid (T. castaneum) were identified as new SCS that could be useful for integrated pest management (IPM) practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fungicides are an indispensable tool in plant disease control. Various modes of action (MOAs) have been identified in different fungicides to suppress plant pathogens. The combined use of fungicides with distinct MOAs has been recommended to prevent the development of pathogen resistance. In studying MOAs, metabolomics has been proven to be a robust and high-throughput method. Because metabolites are unique and distinct depending on the biological activities of an organism, MOAs can be identified and classified by establishing metabolic fingerprinting and metabolic profiles. Similarly, if fungicide resistance is developed in a pathogen, the metabolome will change, which can be identified. In this review, we have discussed the principles and advanced applications of metabolomics in the study of MOAs and resistance mechanisms of fungicides, and the potential of metabolic data in understanding the interaction between fungicides and pathogens. Challenges are also discussed in the application of metabolomics, improvement of the study on the mechanism of fungicides in their functions against pathogens and advancing the development of novel fungicides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study is focused on the optimization and application of an analytical methodology for the determination of 15 selected pesticides in three substrates during the vinification process. QuEChERS extraction was used followed by GC-MS to develop a simple and rapid method for the determination of these compounds. The optimized methodology was validated, providing for all selected pesticides excellent linearity, recoveries ranging between 60.9% and 95.0% and LOQs lower than 50 ng g−1 f for all substrates. The developed methodology was tested on real samples of grapes, must and wine obtained from a winery in the Epirus region. The results indicated the existence of some of the selected pesticides at comparatively low levels in contrast to the valid MRLs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, headspace solid-phase microextraction coupled with gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (SPME-GC-MS) and odor activity value (OAV) analysis were used to investigate the changes in aroma components of Baiyaqilan oolong tea before and after roasting. The results showed large differences in the types and contents of aroma components in Baiyaqilan tea before and after roasting. The major aroma components before roasting included geraniol, dehydrolinalool, cis-bergamotene, phenylethanol, phenylacetaldehyde, cis-jasmone and geranyl acetone. The major aroma components after roasting included geraniol, dehydrolinalool, oxopholone, cis-jasmone, geranylacetone, cis-coumarin, phenylethanol, phenylacetaldehyde, safranal, trans-2-decenal, oxoisophorone, cis-bergamotene, cosmene, cis-linalool oxide, and 2-pentylfuran. The changes in aroma of Baiyaqilan tea after roasting were attributed to mechanisms such as volatilisation of low-boiling substances, conversion of α-lonone, thermal decomposition of glycosides, oxidation of alcohols, peroxidative decomposition of lipids, and conversion of terpenes and alcohols, resulting in the production of oxopholone, cis-linalool oxides, and 2-pentylfuran as well as a substantial increase in the contents of safranal, trans-2-decenal and cosmene. In summary, this study revealed that the roasting process produced aroma components, altering the aroma profile of oolong tea, and for the first time it was found that the roasting process could lead to the production of the key aroma components including oxopholone. These results provide a reference for in-depth understanding of the effect of the roasting process on the aroma components of oolong tea.

To investigate the distribution of flavor components in Luzhou-flavor base baijiu from different aged cellars, the aroma components in 18 samples of Luzhou-flavor base baijiu from three cellars of different ages were identified and quantified by direct injection (DI), liquid-liquid extraction (LLE) or vortex-assisted surfactant-enhanced emulsification liquid-liquid microextraction (VSLLME) combined with gas chromatography (GC) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The differences in flavor among different base baijiu samples was analyzed by chemometrics methods such as principal component analysis (PCA), partial least squares-discriminant analysis (PLS-DA), and Spearman’s correlation coefficient. The results suggested that 151, 154 and 159 volatile compounds were identified in base baijiu from freshly prepared cellar and those aged over 30 and 100 years. In total, 148 aroma compounds were common to the three base baijiu, accounting for 93.1% of the total number of identified compounds. The quantitative analysis of 61 major aroma compounds showed that the concentrations of ethyl caproate, ethyl butyrate, hexanoic acid, butyric acid and acetic acid in base baijiu from each cellar exceeded 100 mg/L. The concentration of ethyl caproate was the highest, ranging from 1 156.4 to 2 142.2 mg/L. Chemometric results indicated that the flavor similarity of base baijiu between the new and over-30-year-old cellars was higher when compared with the cellar aged over 100 years. This findings further strengthen the baijiu industry’s conventional knowledge of the influence of cellar age on the flavor of Luzhou-flavor baijiu.

In this study, blackberry juice was fermented with Lactobacillus plantarum P-S1016. The growth kinetic parameters of this strain were determined, and the organic acids and flavor substances of fermented blackberry juice were analyzed. Besides, its flavor quality was tested using an electronic tongue (E-tongue). The protective effect of fermented blackberry juice against corticosterone-induced injury in PC12 cells was investigated by measuring cell viability, reactive oxygen species (ROS) level, apoptosis rate, and mitochondrial membrane potential. The results showed that the growth kinetic model of L. plantarum P-S1016 had excellent goodness of fit with a determination coefficient (R2) of 0.943, and the bacterial concentration reached a maximum value of 9.40 (lg (CFU/mL)) at 29.28 h. The contents of lactic acid and succinic acid in fermented blackberry juice were 38.99 and 3.30 mg/mL, respectively, and the contents of esters, alcohols, acids, and other flavor components increased compared with those in fresh blackberry juice, with alcohols accounting for the highest proportion (33.28%) of the total, followed by alkanes (29.80%); the saltiness of blackberry juice was significantly reduced after fermentation. In addition, fermented blackberry juice at concentrations of 50 and 200 µg/mL significantly increased the survival rate of cells induced by corticosterone by (1.48 ± 0.07) and (1.60 ± 0.01) folds, reduced intracellular ROS levels, late apoptosis rate and the proportion of necrotic cells, and inhibited the decrease of mitochondrial membrane potential. In conclusion, blackberry juice fermented with L. plantarum P-S1016 has good taste and flavor quality and strong neuroprotective potential. It is expected to become a new functional natural plant-based beverage, which is important for improving the edible properties and functional value of blackberry fresh fruits.

Background and Aim: Cryptosporidiosis is a major waterborne disease affecting ruminants and humans worldwide. It causes diarrhea and neonatal mortality in buffalo calves, and watery diarrhea and mortality in children and immunodeficient patients. This study aimed to investigate the efficacy of Myristica fragrans methanolic extract in treatment of C. parvum infection in comparison with nitazoxanide (NZX) (a Food and Drug Administration-approved drug control) in immunosuppressed and immunocompetent mice. Materials and Methods: One hundred laboratory-bred male Swiss albino mice were equally divided into immunocompetent and immunosuppressed groups. Each group was further divided into five subgroups: (1) non-infected and non-treated control, (2) infected and non-treated control (infected with Cryptosporidium parvum oocysts 3 × 103), (3) NZX-treated (100 mg/kg, 200 μL/mouse), (4) M. fragrans Houtt. methanol extract-treated (500 mg/kg), and (5) combination-treated (NZX + M. fragrans extract). Number of oocysts/g of feces, serum immunoglobulin (Ig) G level, and interferon (IFN)-γ, and interleukin (IL)-4 levels were used to evaluate the therapeutic effect. Results: C. parvum oocyst shedding in stool samples was significantly decreased in all treatment groups, with 79.7%, 81.2 %, and 85.5 % reduction in immunocompetent mice treated with NZX, M. fragrans, and their combination, respectively. In immunosuppressed mice, oocyst shedding was reduced by 77.7%, 80.5 %, and 83.7 % upon NZX, M. fragrans, and their combination treatments, respectively. The serum IgG level was lowest in mice treated with a mixture of M. fragrans and NZX, followed by those treated with NZX, and was highest in mice treated with M. fragrans alone. Regarding cytokine levels, all groups treated with M. fragrans had low levels of IFN-γ and IL4 on day 21 post-infection. Conclusion: Collectively, the treatment of cryptosporidiosis with M. fragrans extract was successful in mice, as demonstrated by the measured parameters. M. fragrans reduced C. parvum oocyst shedding and serum IgG, IFN-γ, and IL-4 levels in immunocompetent and immunosuppressed mice.

Short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) are involved in important physiological processes such as gut health and immune response, and changes in SCFA levels can be indicative of disease. Despite the importance of SCFAs in human health and disease, reference values for fecal and plasma SCFA concentrations in healthy individuals are scarce. To address this gap in current knowledge, we developed a simple and reliable derivatization-free GC-TOFMS method for quantifying fecal and plasma SCFAs in healthy individuals. We targeted six linear- and seven branched-SCFAs, obtaining method recoveries of 73–88% and 83–134% in fecal and plasma matrices, respectively. The developed methods are simpler, faster, and more sensitive than previously published methods and are well suited for large-scale studies. Analysis of samples from 157 medically confirmed healthy individuals showed that the total SCFAs in the feces and plasma were 34.1 ± 15.3 µmol/g and 60.0 ± 45.9 µM, respectively. In fecal samples, acetic acid (Ace), propionic acid (Pro), and butanoic acid (But) were all significant, collectively accounting for 89% of the total SCFAs, whereas the only major SCFA in plasma samples was Ace, constituting of 93% of the total plasma SCFAs. There were no statistically significant differences in the total fecal and plasma SCFA concentrations between sexes or among age groups. The data revealed, however, a positive correlation for several nutrients, such as carbohydrate, fat, iron from vegetables, and water, to most of the targeted SCFAs. This is the first large-scale study to report SCFA reference intervals in the plasma and feces of healthy individuals, and thereby delivers valuable data for microbiome, metabolomics, and biomarker research.

In this study, an analytical method based on gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) was developed for the simultaneous determination of 8 common psychoactive substances derived from cathinone compounds in tea. Extraction, clean-up and chromatographic and mass spectrometric conditions were optimized. As a result, an alkaline solution containing methanol was selected as the extraction solvent, and the extract was cleaned up on an HLB solid-phase extraction (SPE) cartridge filled with N-propylethylenediamine (PSA) and separated on a DB-17MS capillary column (30 m × 0.25 mm, 0.25 μm). The mass spectrometer was operated using an electrospray ionization (EI) source in the selected ion monitoring (SIM) mode. The calibration curves showed good linearity for the 8 analytes in the concentration range of 0–200 μg/L, with correlation coefficients (r2) higher than 0.998. The limits of detection (LOD, RSN = 3) and limits of quantification (LOQ, RSN = 10) were 7 and 25 μg/kg, respectively. The recoveries from negative samples spiked at 1 ×, 2 × and 10 × LOQ were in the range of 67.2%–117.6%, with relative standard deviations (RSD) of 4.3%–12.3% (n = 6). In summary, this method has good stability and high sensitivity, and is suitable for simultaneous determination of the psychoactive substances derived from cathinones in tea.

This study analyzed and compared the effects of different drying methods on the volatile composition and aroma characteristics of Osmanthus fragrans extract and absolute oil. The volatile composition was determined by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and partial least squares-discriminant analysis (PLS-DA), relative odor activity value (ROAV), aroma profile radar and principal component analysis (PCA) were employed to determine the effect of different drying methods on the volatile aroma components of O. fragrans extract and absolute oil. The results showed that a total of 113 volatile components were identified. The types and concentrations of volatile components were significantly different among samples (P < 0.05). Through PLS-DA analysis, 36 volatile marker substances were selected using the cut-off of variable importance in the projection (VIP) score greater than 1, and the accuracy of predictive discrimination of O. fragrans extract and absolute oil prepared by different drying methods was 99.6%. The ROAV and aroma radar plots showed that dihydro-β-ionone, linalool, nonanal, β-ionone, and dihydro-β-iononeone contributed significantly to the aroma of O. fragrans extract and absolute oil, being responsible for the floral, woody, and fruity aromas. Notably, the extract from freeze-dried O. fragrans exhibited a more intense aroma. PCA analysis indicated that freeze-drying contributed to improving the aroma quality of O. fragrans extract and absolute oil. The results of this study provide theoretical support for process optimization and quality improvement of O. fragrans extract products.

An untargeted metabolomic analysis of five Eucalyptus species was used to compare their chemical profiles. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) along with multivariate analyses including principal component analysis (PCA) and hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA) were applied to assess variations in the leaf chemical profiles of E. maidenii F. Muell, E. robusta Smith, E. citriodora Hook (syn Corymbia citriodora), E. tereticornis Smith and E. camaldulensis Dehnh. In total, 299 relevant metabolites were identified and subjected to statistical analyses in order to detect either the major common metabolites of the genus or the specific compounds contributing to the characteristic chemical composition of each species. Organic acids, nitrogenous compounds, and phenolic constituents were the main discriminatory groups between the investigated eucalypts. The cluster analysis revealed that fatty acids and fatty alcohols were more concentrated in the leaves of E. citriodora and distinguished it from other species, whereas sugars, polyols, and glycosides were characteristic to E. camaldulensis.

Abstract The profiles of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in selected heat-processed meat and fish were evaluated to determine the potential health risk associated with consumption. The samples were analysed using a gas Chromatography-Mass spectrometer. Different concentrations of individual PAHs were detected in the samples, with the smoked samples having the highest concentrations. The total PAHs (mg/kg) in smoked samples were 2.763 ± 0.185 (game meat), 1.618 ± 0.102 (mackerel fish), and 1.718 ± 0.129 (catfish), whereas levels (mg/kg) in grilled samples were 0.771 ± 0.049 (chicken) and 0.911 ± 0.053 (fish). The total carcinogenic PAH (PAH7) concentrations (mg/kg) in grilled chicken and fish and smoked (game meat, mackerel fish, and catfish) samples were 0.231, 0.294, 0.440, 0.309, and 0.332, while their total PAH8 concentrations were 0.356, 0.371, 0.537, 0.465, and 0.476 respectively. The non-carcinogenic PAH risk estimations, both individually (hazard quotient) and cumulatively (hazard index), were below 1 in all the samples. The mean concentrations of PAH markers B[a]P and the PAH4 were above the EU limits in both the smoked and the grilled samples tested. This implies that exposure to high levels of these PAHs through regular consumption of these products may increase the risk of developing certain types of cancer and other health issues. The smoked fishes has the lowest MOE values for the PAH8 compared to the other samples. The margin of exposures (MOEs), carcinogenic toxic equivalent (TEQ), and excess cancer risk (ECR) also indicated that frequent consumption of smoked fish (mackerel or catfish) by an adult of 70 kg body weight above the reported intake rate of 0.0019 kg/AME/day for a prolonged period may have higher cancer risks than in other samples. Smoked game meat had the highest PAH16 level, but indicated a relatively lower risk level, possibly because of its relatively low intake rate (0.0004 kg/AME/day).

The thermal stability of dibenzo-21-crown-7 (DB21C7) and its solution in 1,2-dichloroethane (DCE) after contact with nitrogen dioxide, which is a product of nitric acid degradation, was studied. It is shown that exothermic processes accompanied by the release of gaseous products are observed in inert and oxidizing atmosphere. The compounds formed after contact with nitrogen dioxide were determined by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. Differences in gaseous products in the temperature range of 300℃ were defined for the initial crown ether and for DB21С7 and its solution in DСE after contact with NO2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aims: Caffeine is a xanthine alkaloid found naturally in plants. Caffeine has cardiotonic and stimulant effects in humans and animals. For this reason, caffeine is on the monitoring list for human sports and is listed as a feed contaminant in horse racing. The aim of this study was to develop a rapid, practical, and specific method for the determination of caffeine in horse urine. Methods: In the new method, the pH of the sample was adjusted by the addition of phosphate buffer, and after solid phase extraction, it was dissolved in methanol before being analysed by gas chromatography mass spectrometry without derivatization. The method was validated according to the European Commission’s 2002/657/EC criteria. Results: The effects of different cartridge brands, pH, and elution solution were determined. Intraday and interday CV% values are 2.8 and 5.2 for the International Residue Limit (IRL), respectively. Five levels (blank, 0.5xIRL, IRL, 1.5xIRL, and 2xIRL) were used in constructing the curve, and the R2 value was greater than 0.99. The analysis run was 11.8 min. The decision limit (CCα) was determined to be 56.7 ng/mL due to IRL. The detection limit of the method was calculated to be 3.3 ng/mL. The method was determined to be robust according to changes in extraction pH, phosphate buffer concentration, centrifugation time, hexane volume in the wash step, different grades of methanol, inlet temperature, and operator. Conclusion: The applicability of the method was demonstrated by analysing positive and negative horse urine samples. Validation parameters showed the method to be selective, specific, and easy to apply. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Exploring potential medicinal value from production waste of Chinese herbal medicine and realizing its resourceful utilization is an important way to enhance income and alleviate poverty. • Essential oils from the branches, leaves, flowers and fruits of finger citron were studied for composition and antioxidant activity. • Extraction rate and relative content of essential components of young leaf essential oil were high and antioxidant capacity was moderate. • Young leaves could be preferred in the late development of finger citron non-medicinal parts to develop by-products such as finger citron essential oil perfume and fragrance. The finger citron (Citrus medica L.var. sarcodactylis Swingle) is a both medicinal and edible species specified by the China Ministry of Health, It is also a regional medicinal plant grown in Chinaʼs Chongqing Municipality. We explored the utilization value of flower, leaf, and branch resources of non-medicinal sections of finger citron of Chongqing origin and identified variations in its yield, content, and antioxidant activity in essential oils in several organs. From several finger citron organs, essential oils were extracted using ultrasonic-assisted steam distillation, and their essential components were identified using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC–MS). To assess antioxidant properties of various finger citron organs, DPPH free radical scavenging rate, ABTS free radical scavenging rate, and total reducing power of essential oils were determined. A total of 71 chemical components were discovered, and a cluster heat map revealed that d-limonene, Citral, (Z)-3,7-dimethylocta-2,6-dienal, γ-Terpinene, O Cymene, and Ocimene were the most significant components and that their composition and concentration in essential oils of different organs varied substantially, with the average total amount in the four major organs in descending order: branches (79.34 %), leaves (73.40 %), flowers (68.85 %), and dried fruits (55.69 %). Finger citron's non-medicinal sections and organs' essential oils exhibited some level of antioxidant activity. The maximal clearance rate of the final flower group was 19.26 % when the essential oil concentration of each group was 4.0 mg·mL−1 for the assessment of DPPH free radical scavenging activity. DPPH free radical clearance rates of the bud group, initial flower group, full flower group, final flower group, branch group, and young leaf group were significantly different from the medicinal parts dried fruits group (P < 0.05), whereas there was no significant difference in the old leaf group (P > 0.05). When the essential oil concentration of each group was 0.10 mg·mL−1 for the ABTS radical scavenging ability measurement, the bud group had the highest scavenging rate of 32.24 %, and significant differences in the ABTS radical scavenging rates of the bud group, primary flower group, full flower group, final flower group, and branch group were observed when compared to the dried fruits group (P < 0.05). Between the young leaf and old leaf groups, there was no significant difference (P > 0.05). When the essential oil concentration was 3.0 mg·mL−1 for the measurement of overall reduction capacity, the old leaf group's highest absorbance value was 0.310. and the total reduction capacity of the bud group, first flower group, complete flower group, last flower group, branch group, young leaf group, and old leaf group substantially differed from the dried fruits (P < 0.05). This study provides a reference for the formation of "green" concurrent consumption and development of medicinal and non-medicinal elements of Chinese medicinal materials as well as theoretical support for the diverse utilization of finger citron resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The list of standard abbreviations for JDS is available at adsa.org/jds-abbreviations-24. Nonstandard abbreviations are available in the Notes. Short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) content in milk may have been underestimated due to the neglect of the esterified SCFA content and the lack of an accurate detection method, especially for C1:0, C2:0, and C3:0 SCFA. In this study, an accurate GC-MS profiling method was established for 10 SCFA. A 2-step esterification, including alkaline saponification (60°C for 30 min) and acid-catalyzed esterification (80°C for 150 min) in water/isopropyl/hexane (1:2:1, volume ratio), was found to be the most suitable for the quantification of esterified and nonesterified SCFA analysis. The validation results demonstrate satisfactory linearity, sensitivity, matrix effects, precision, and accuracy. The recoveries of nonesterified and esterified SCFA ranged from 82.78% to 112.49%, respectively. Human milk is distinguished from cow milk by its higher C1:0 and C2:0 content and lower C4:0 and C6:0 content. This method successfully accomplished qualitative and quantitative estimation of all 10 SCFA in milk, including both nonesterified and esterified SCFA. Furthermore, whether our method is applicable for the determination of SCFA in serum, rumen fluid, and feces remains to be explored. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Barley flour, known to be rich in various phytochemicals, has been demonstrated to improve the technological and nutritional properties of pasta; however, its volatile profile, on which its aromatic properties depend, also plays an important role in the acceptance of barley‐enriched pasta. In the present work, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) of semolina doughs enriched with different percentages of barley and of the related pasta were characterized by solid phase micro‐extraction (HS‐SPME) coupled to gas‐chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC–MS), and evaluated using a multivariate statistical approach, including principal component analysis (PCA), cluster heatmaps, Pearson's and Spearman's correlations, and partial least squares correlation (PLSC). RESULTS: The effects of single raw materials, and their interactions, were studied to establish their importance in the volatile profile of the samples, and the correlation between the dough VOCs and the processed product VOCs was assessed. The presence of barley flour markedly affected the volatile profile in comparison with the dough obtained with only durum wheat. For alcohols, esters, terpenes, and some aldehydes there was a clear correlation with the percentage of barley. For some of the VOCs, on the other hand, a strong dependence on the ingredients interaction effect due to the mixing stage has been demonstrated. CONCLUSION: The heatmaps allowed a good graphical visualization of the relationship between molecules and barley percentage, offering the possibility to select the best one according to the desired volatolomic footprint. Pasta with 40% of barley was demonstrated to give pasta with the most complex volatile profile. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The growing demand for alternative sources of non-animal proteins has stimulated research in this area. Mushrooms show potential in the innovation of plant-based food products. In this study, the aim was to develop prototype fish fillets analogues from Pleurotus ostreatus mushrooms applying enzymatic treatment (β-glucanase and transglutaminase-TG). A Plackett–Burman 20 experimental design was used to optimize forty variables. Oat flour (OF) exerted a positive effect on the hardness and gumminess texture parameters but a negative effect on cohesiveness and resilience. Soy protein isolate (SPI) exhibited a positive effect on elasticity, gumminess and chewiness, while acacia gum had a negative effect on elasticity, cohesiveness and resilience. After sensory analysis the assay with 1% cassava starch, 5% OF, 5% SPI, 0.1% transglutaminase (240 min/5 °C), 1% coconut oil, 1% soybean oil, 0.2% sodium tripolyphosphate, 0.6% β-glucanase (80 °C/10 min) and without β-glucanase inactivation was found to exhibit greater similarity to fish fillet. The classes hydrocarbons, alcohols and aldehydes are the predominant ones in aromatic profile analysis by chromatography and electronic nose. It is concluded that a mushroom-based analogue of fish fillet can be prepared using enzymatic treatment with TG. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In response to growing concerns regarding the environmental impact and the development of resistance to synthetic fungicides, researchers have undertaken investigations into natural alternatives for managing plant diseases caused by various fungi. This study investigates the antifungal properties of aqueous extracts and essential oils from Moroccan Rosmarinus officinalis, Origanum compactum, and Origanum majorana leaves against ten phytopathogenic fungi. The essential oils of the plants were extracted by hydrodistillation employing the Clevenger apparatus, and aqueous extracts were obtained through the infusion process. The antifungal efficacy of the extracts was assessed against ten phytopathogenic fungi utilising the poisoned food technique. The chemical composition of the essential oils was determined through GC-MS. Biochemical analyses were conducted to identify the phytochemical compounds responsible for the antifungal efficacy observed in the EOs and aqueous extracts. The essential oil extracts derived from Origanum compactum and Origanum majorana leaves exhibited potent antifungal properties against all tested fungi, with notably low IC50 values. While Rosemary essential oil displayed moderate activity. The aqueous extracts exhibited weak activities against all tested fungal strains. The GC-MS analysis revealed that 1.8-cineole accounted for 49.93% of the essential oil of Rosemary, pulegone (26.79%) of the essential oil of Compact Oregano, and carvacrol (61.66%) of the essential oil of Marjoram. The results of the biochemical analysis have shown that the extracted samples contain important components, specifically polyphenols, flavonoids, saponins, and catechic tannins. This study has showcased the promising potential of essential oils and aqueous extracts derived from Moroccan plants to effectively combat fungal diseases in plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The low molecular weight metabolome (LMWM) of Lobelia dortmanna L. (Campanulaceae, Magnoliophyta)—a relic aquatic macrophyte listed in the Red Data Books of the Russian Federation and the Republic of Belarus—has been studied for the first time using the GC/MS technique. This macrophyte grows in oligotrophic lakes in the northwest of Vologda oblast, Russia. We have discovered 127 volatile low molecular weight organic compounds (VOCs), and 13 of the main ones accounted for 77.23% of the overall VOC content (198.75 µg/g of dry plant mass). The main components of the LMWM are represented by carboxylic acids and hydrocarbons. The presence of a large number of biologically active metabolites with a high concentration in L. dortmanna LMWM may indicate a significant effect of this plant on the hydrobiocenoses of the littoral zone of oligotrophic lakes. Further research into the LMWM of aquatic macrophytes in oligotrophic lakes, a valuable renewable resource, is needed to assess the background characteristics of the natural environment for the more effective monitoring of the ecological status of water bodies in northwestern Russia and rational use of their biological resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The composition and nature of changes in the low-molecular-weight metabolome (LMWM) of Potamogeton perfoliatus L. growing in six biotopes of Lake Ladoga with different types of anthropogenic load have been analyzed. According to the results, it is found that the total number of low-molecular-weight organic compounds (LMWOCs) in the P. perfoliatus LMWM composition is directly dependent on anthropogenic load, which is well marked by the development of cyanobacteria. The greater the intensity of pollution or eutrophication of waters, or the higher the number of cyanobacteria, the lower the total number of LMWOCs and their concentration. A strongly pronounced dependence of the total concentrations of groups of LMWM compounds on the anthropogenic disturbance of the biotope and the concentration of cyanobacteria is revealed. A decrease in the number, relative amount, total concentration of carboxylic acids, and number and content of unsaturated fatty acids and an increase in the composition and content of phenols and the total content of aldehydes and ketones depends on an increase in anthropogenic pressure. The specific composition of the LMWM of claspingleaf pondweed depends on its response to biotic and abiotic factors of the aquatic (including anthropogenic) environment. The features of the change in the composition of the P. perfoliatus LMWM make it possible to use it as an integral indicator of the anthropogenic impact on the littoral biotopes of water bodies and the deterioration of their ecological state. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the chemical compositions of rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis Spenn.) and sweet marjoram (Origanum majorana L.) essential oils, both individually and in various blend ratios, were investigated by using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry. Their antifungal activities were also determined against the potato rubbery rot disease agent, Geotrichum candidum, under in vitro and in vivo conditions. Camphor (20.69%) and terpinen-4-ol (35.13%) were determined as primary constituents in rosemary and sweet marjoram essential oils, respectively. Sweet marjoram and rosemary essential oils completely inhibited mycelial growth of G. candidum at 55.0 and 65.0 µL/Petri concentrations, respectively. Essential oils at these concentrations were found as fungicidal. Notably, a synergistic fungicidal antifungal effects were also observed in essential oil blends. Blend of sweet marjoram and rosemary essential oil in a 3:1 ratio (O75R25) significantly enhanced antifungal activity at the relatively lower concentration (45.0 µL/Petri). Microscopic observations revealed structural deformations in exposed hyphae, including cytoplasmic coagulation and vacuolization. Essential oil blend (O75R25), sweet marjoram and rosemary essential oils completely inhibited the disease lesion caused by G. candidum on potato tubers at concentrations of 100.0, 125.0, and 150.0 µL/L air, respectively. These findings emphasized that essential oil blends of rosemary and sweet marjoram have synergistic antifungal potential and can be used as effective biofungicides against plant fungal diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cervical cancer (CC) remains a major health concern globally, much of the brunt of which is experienced by the low- and middle-income countries where screening in terms of cytology and DNA genotyping for the high-risk oncogenic subtypes of the human papilloma virus (hr-HPV) is either inadequate or performed rather late. In this study, we aimed to determine biomarkers or panels of biomarkers that are capable of diagnosing the precancerous cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) stages from healthy and CC patients via untargeted gas chromatography–mass spectrometry-based metabolomics. Various cross-comparisons were conducted from which differential metabolites were identified. The underlying metabolic pathways based on the differential metabolites identified from the various cross-comparisons mainly related to amino acids biosynthesis and metabolism and steroid hormone biosynthesis. From all cross-comparisons, two common metabolites namely, 2-methyl-1-propylamine (also known as isobutylamine) and estrone were found to possess excellent to good diagnostic abilities, especially in distinguishing the early stages of CIN (CIN I, CIN II) from healthy women and CC patients. These findings have clinical significance in the sense that, once validated the 2-biomarker panel could be adopted in clinical practice for early diagnosis of CIN and invasive carcinoma. This would therefore inform the choice of treatment to be initiated by the clinician. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The object of this research is the polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in sediments along Shatt Al-Arab estuary, Iraq. The study examines the problem of river PCB pollution. PCB effects on humans include cancer, impaired reproduction, neuro-developmental effects in infants, immunotoxicity and endocrine disruption. PCBs lead to liver damage and stimulate changes in the DNA sequence. The Shatt Al-Arab Estuary is formed in southern Iraq near Al-Qurna city after the confluence of the Tigris and Euphrates Rivers. The Shatt Al-Arab Estuary region is shared between Iraq and Iran. The Estuary receives pollutants when it is passing during Basrah City regions, due to industrial, agricultural and human activities which discharge the pollutants to the Estuary without treatment. The concentrations of Σ13 PCBs compound in sediment samples were determined and analyzed at each site by using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS, Agilent). Six sites were chosen along Shatt Al-Arab Estuary. They are Al-Qurna (S1), Al-Deer (S2), Al-Qarma (S3), Al-Ashar (S4), Abi Al-Khasib (S5) and Al-Fao (S6), at Basrah city, south of Iraq. Sediment samples were collected seasonally, starting from Autumn season on September 2019 to summer season on July 2020. The Σ13 (PCB-18, PCB-29, PCB-31, PCB-28, PCB-44, PCB-52, PCB-101, PCB-141, PCB-149, PCB-138, PCB-153, PCB-189, and PCB-194) concentrations at the sediment samples ranged from 4.48 ng/g in Al-Deer site during summer season to 27.75 ng/g in Al-Ashar site during winter season for all selected sites. The Al-Deer site were found to have the lowest mean of PCBs its 0.345 ng/g and Al-Ashar site were found to have the highest mean of PCBs its 2.135 ng/g. PCBs concentrations in sediment samples during autumn, winter, spring and summer seasons ranged from 7.75 to 21.68 ng/g, 16.25 to 27.75 ng/g, 7.28 to 22.01 ng/g and 4.48 to 14.41 ng/g, respectively. The congener distribution patterns in these samples indicate the dominance highly chlorinated congeners (tri- and hexa-PCBs) in comparison with remaining others PCBs congeners. This project is the first of its kind in Basrah and all Iraq that reports PCB concentrations in the region and is considered a baseline study and can be used for subsequent studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Angomonas deanei belongs to Trypanosomatidae family, a family of parasites that only infect insects. It hosts a bacterial endosymbiont in a mutualistic relationship, constituting an excellent model for studying organelle origin and cellular evolution. A lipidomic approach, which allows for a comprehensive analysis of all lipids in a biological system (lipidome), is a useful tool for identifying and measuring different expression patterns of lipid classes. The present study applied GC-MS and NMR techniques, coupled with principal component analysis (PCA), in order to perform a comparative lipidomic study of wild and aposymbiotic A. deanei grown in the presence or absence of FBS. Unusual contents of branched-chain iso C17:0 and C19:0-cis-9,10 and-11,12 fatty acids were identified in A. deanei cultures, and it was interesting to note that their content slightly decreased at the log phase culture, indicating that in the latter growth stages the cell must promote the remodeling of lipid synthesis in order to maintain the fluidity of the membrane. The combination of analytical techniques used in this work allowed for the detection and characterization of lipids and relevant contributors in a variety of A. deanei growth conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although men's attraction to women's body odour has been suggested to vary over the ovulatory cycle, peaking around the fertile window, we still lack methodologically robust evidence corroborating this effect. Further, the chemical underpinnings of male preference for the odour of ovulating women remain unknown. Here, we combined perceptual and chemical analyses to investigate the axillary odour of naturally cycling women over 10 days, covering the gradual change in fertility across the ovulatory cycle with a focus on fertile days. The fertile state was confirmed by urinary ovulation tests as well as salivary oestradiol and progesterone levels. Men rated the scent of unfamiliar women, resembling a first encounter. We used multivariate analyses to relate variation in both odour ratings and chemical composition to female conception probability, temporal distance to ovulation and ovarian hormone levels. Our results provide no evidence that males prefer the odour of fertile women. Furthermore, the volatile analysis indicated no link between axillary odour composition and current fertility status. Together, our results showed no convincing support for a chemical fertility cue in women's axillary odour, questioning the presence of olfactory fertility information that is recognizable during first encounters in modern humans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]