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BACKGROUND RESULTS CONCLUSION To date, cider production has primarily relied on Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Introducing novel non‐Saccharomyces yeasts can enhance the diversity of cider properties. Among these, the Metschnikowia genus stands out for its ability to produce hydrolytic enzymes that may impact the sensorial and technological properties of cider. This study focused on evaluating the impact of three Metschnikowia species – Metschnikowia koreensis (Mk), M. reukaufii (Mr), and M. pulcherrima (Mp) – which exhibit acid protease and esterase activity, on the quality enhancement of cider.The research findings indicate that the overall quality of cider produced through co‐fermentation with these species surpassed that of cider fermented with mono‐fermentation of S. cerevisiae (Sc). The cider fermented with the Sc + Mk combination exhibited the lowest levels of harsh‐tasting malic acid and higher levels of softer lactic acid. Sensory array analysis also demonstrated that the Sc + Mk fermented cider exhibited high sensor response values for compounds contributing to a complex overall olfactory composition and richness. Furthermore, the Sc + Mk fermented cider exhibited the highest total quantity and variety of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Specifically, the concentrations of phenethyl alcohol, 3‐methyl‐1‐butanol, ethyl octanoate, and decanoic acid were notably elevated in comparison with other groups.This study illustrates that Metschnikowia species, particularly M. koreensis, show significant potential as starters for cider due to their various technological properties, including acidity modulation, aroma enhancement, and color improvement. The findings of this study provide a foundation for improving cider quality by co‐fermenting S. cerevisiae with innovative starter cultures. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The investigation of the interplay between complex coacervate microdroplets and amphiphilic molecules offers valuable insights into the processes of prebiotic compartmentalization on the early Earth and presents a promising avenue for future advancements in biotechnology. Herein, the interaction between complex coacervate microdroplets and amphiphilic molecule (decanoic acid) is systematically investigated by varying charge strengths of negatively charged polyelectrolytes (DNA and PAA) and positively charged polyelectrolytes (PDDA and DEAE‐Dextran). It is found that the interaction between amphiphilic molecule and complex coacervate microdroplets depended on the delicate balance between the interaction between decanoic acid and polyelectrolyte and the interaction between two polyelectrolytes. The different spatial distribution of amphiphilic molecule can result in differences in the internal microenvironment, which can further alter the uptake or exclusion of small molecules and biomolecules with different charges and polarities and functional biological process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Medium‐chain fatty acids (MCFAs), particularly decanoic acid (C10) and octanoic acid (C8), have garnered attention in recent years for their potential antiepileptic properties. A previous study from our laboratory demonstrated that C10 targets the PPARγ nuclear receptor, increasing the activity of the antioxidant enzyme catalase and thereby possibly modulating peroxisomal content. Here, we examined markers of peroxisomal content and activity in response to C10 and C8 exposure in neuronal‐like SH‐SY5Y cells. SH‐SY5Y were treated with 250 mM C10 or C8 for a period of 6 days. Following this, biochemical markers of peroxisomal content and function were assessed, including acyl‐coA oxidase activity, peroxisomal gene expression and peroxisomal VLCFA β‐oxidation. Our findings revealed that C10 treatment augments acyl‐CoA oxidase 1 (ACOx1) activity by 129% in comparison to control cells. An exploration into genes related to peroxisomal biosynthesis showed 23% increased expression of PEX11α upon C10 exposure, implying peroxisomal proliferation. Furthermore, it was observed that C10 exposure not only elevated ACOx1 activity but also enhanced peroxisomal β‐oxidation of docosanoic acid (C22). Our findings bolster the premise that C10 functions as a peroxisome proliferator, influencing peroxisomal content and function. Further investigations are required to fully understand the mechanistic details as to how this may be beneficial in epilepsy and the potential implications with regards to peroxisomal disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research focuses on the development of thermochromic membranes made of cellulose acetate (CA) for temperature monitoring of sensitive food products. Two dual TC membranes developed for the control of different temperature ranges were formulated using a three‐component system: a leuco‐dye membrane (crystal violet lactone, CVL) integrated with an acidic membrane containing the color developer (salicylic acid) and the acidic solvent with different melting points (decanoic acid, DA, or methacrylic acid, MA). The CVL membrane, together with the DA membrane, showed an irreversible color change when exposed to 35°C, which was facilitated by the melting of DA. The CVL membrane also underwent an irreversible color change when exposed to 15°C together with the MA membrane. The membranes were characterized in detail using scanning electron microscopy. The evaluation of color changes, reproducibility, specificity, and stability ensured the practical suitability of these membranes. Overall, this innovative approach has proven to be a reproducible, sustainable, cost‐effective method to produce irreversible colorimetric temperature sensors. These sensors have significant potential for applications in the food and pharmaceutical industries and offer a promising way to improve product safety and quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The black soldier fly, Hermetia illucens, comes with big promises for industrial purposes since its larvae feed polyphagously on a broad spectrum of organic substrates. However, research focusing on adult flies is scarce, which is inconsistent with their reproductive relevance within the rearing cycle. In particular, directed oviposition is a challenge in artificial systems. Currently, decomposing organic matter is commonly used as oviposition substrate, which has extensive potential for improvement in view of the lack of standardization and the risk of microbial contamination. Here, we identified three fatty acids and one fatty acid methyl ester derived from the surface of old oviposition sites and targeted to elucidate their effect on preference behavior and oviposition site selection using Y‐olfactometry and prepared oviposition sites, respectively. Exposure to tetradecanoic acid attracted gravid females and stimulated oviposition most strongly, while decanoic acid demonstrated a repulsive effect. Females kept in mixed‐sex populations were attracted by tetradecanoic acid, resulting in a higher egg mass found in the compound box (3.0–11.4 fold), a ≥ 2.3 fold reduction of nonspecifically deposited eggs, and the highest total egg mass. Conversely, decanoic and dodecanoic acid caused females to lay a greater proportion of eggs nonspecifically outside both boxes. Our data suggest that fatty acids, especially tetradecanoic acid, are important cues for oviposition site selection in black soldier flies. In order to achieve a directed oviposition behavior, the role of further short‐ and long‐chain fatty acids as attractants should be examined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In glucose transporter 1 deficiency syndrome (Glut1DS), glucose transport into brain is reduced due to impaired Glut1 function in endothelial cells at the blood–brain barrier. This can lead to shortages of glucose in brain and is thought to contribute to seizures. Ketogenic diets are the first‐line treatment and, among many beneficial effects, provide auxiliary fuel in the form of ketone bodies that are largely metabolized by neurons. However, Glut1 is also the main glucose transporter in astrocytes. Here, we review data indicating that glucose shortage may also impact astrocytes in addition to neurons and discuss the expected negative biochemical consequences of compromised astrocytic glucose transport for neurons. Based on these effects, auxiliary fuels are needed for both cell types and adding medium chain triglycerides (MCTs) to ketogenic diets is a biochemically superior treatment for Glut1DS compared to classical ketogenic diets. MCTs provide medium chain fatty acids (MCFAs), which are largely metabolized by astrocytes and not neurons. MCFAs supply energy and contribute carbons for glutamine and γ‐aminobutyric acid synthesis, and decanoic acid can also block α‐amino‐3‐hydroxy‐5‐methyl‐4‐isoxazolepropionic acid glutamate receptors. MCTs do not compete with metabolism of ketone bodies mostly occurring in neurons. Triheptanoin, an anaplerotic but also gluconeogenic uneven MCT, may be another potential addition to ketogenic diets, although maintenance of "ketosis" can be difficult. Gene therapy has also targeted both endothelial cells and astrocytes. Other approaches to increase fuel delivery to the brain currently investigated include exchange of Glut1DS erythrocytes with healthy cells, infusion of lactate, and pharmacological improvement of glucose transport. In conclusion, although it remains difficult to assess impaired astrocytic energy metabolism in vivo, astrocytic energy needs are most likely not met by ketogenic diets in Glut1DS. Thus, we propose prospective studies including monitoring of blood MCFA levels to find optimal doses for add‐on MCT to ketogenic diets and assessing of short‐ and long‐term outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, a method for separating isopropanol from wastewater using hydrophobic deep eutectic solvents (DESs) synthesized from terpenes and capric acid was proposed. The distribution coefficient and selectivity value of isopropanol (IPA) in the solvents were determined by liquid–liquid extraction experiments, and the extraction performances of the solvents at different molar ratios and temperatures were studied. From the perspective of molecular dynamics simulations, the experimental results were verified by mechanism analysis, the contribution of hydrogen bond donors (HBDs) and hydrogen bond acceptors (HBAs) to the selective separation of isopropanol was explained. The interaction energies, radial distribution functions, normal density distribution, and mean square deviations between the atoms were used to analyze the interactions between the components of the DESs and IPA/water. It was observed that the DESs have a good extraction effect on IPA, which verifies the good application prospects of DESs in wastewater solutions containing alcohol compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The new derivatives of bis(2‐methyl‐1H‐indol‐3‐yl)methane are synthesized by employing decanoic acid to boost aldehyde reactivity via electrophilic activation. The reactions entail combining 2‐methyl‐1H‐indole with various aromatic, aliphatic, and heterocyclic aldehydes at room temperature for 24 h. The newly synthesized compound 4‐(bis(2‐methyl‐1H‐indol‐3‐yl)methyl)‐3‐bromophenol f) has been characterized through 2D structure elucidation. Chemo selectivity and mono selectivity have been explored. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Waxes play an important role in maintaining fruit quality and shelf‐life extension because they are naturally effective in blocking the migration of moisture. In this work, cuticular waxes from Physalis peruviana calyx (PPC) were extracted and characterised as potentially hydrophobic materials. Extraction was carried out using the Soxhlet technique with two non‐polar solvents, hexane and petroleum ether, and one polar solvent, ethanol. The extraction yield, lipid characterisation, and hydrophobic potential of cuticular waxes from PPC were analysed and compared using thin‐layer chromatography (TLC), attenuated total reflectance‐infrared spectroscopy (ATR‐IR), GC–MS chromatogram (FAMES), and wetting contact angle. Extraction using hexane was the most efficient method (yield of 9.61 ± 0.37%) for obtaining cuticular waxes with better hydrophobic properties, characterised by a contact angle of θC = 107.37 ± 1.0° and a hysteresis contact angle of 11° due mainly to the presence of functional groups desirable and characteristic of vegetable waxes. Greater texture homogeneity visualised using optical microscopy and the presence of capric acid (70.97%) as a major component of low‐molecular‐weight fatty acids were observed in this extract. Due to their biodegradable, potentially antifungal, and hydrophobic properties, cuticular waxes from PPC have the potential to replace synthetic waxes in industrial applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current research is oriented towards the development and assessment of the properties of the form‐stable phase change materials (PCMs), comprising of the thermoset polymer matrix (polyurethane, PU) enclosing capric acid (CA) as an active thermal energy storage (TES) component. The Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) and Field‐Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FE‐SEM) have been used to characterize the chemical nature and morphological details of the developed PU‐based PCMs (PUPCMs). TES attributes and thermal stability of the resultant PCMs are evaluated by thermo‐analytical techniques such as Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) and Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA). A thermal reliability test has been conducted to determine the phase change efficiency of the prepared PCMs. PUPCMs have been found to be suitable for TES applications, such as passive space heating or cooling building applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tunable solvents represent a new generation of environmentally friendly solvents with potential applications in the effective extraction of bioactive compounds, including supramolecular solvents (SUPRAS). This study aimed to optimize caffeine extraction from coffee processing wastewater (CWW) using SUPRAS of various compositions. An extreme vertices design was employed to evaluate the SUPRAS composition. The synthesis of SUPRAS involved two amphiphiles (1‐hexanol and decanoic acid) in hydro‐organic solutions of tetrahydrofuran (THF). A statistical modeling approach was used to characterize the process and determine the optimal conditions for potential scale‐up within the coffee processing industry. The results indicated that SUPRAS offer a promising alternative to traditional solvents for extracting caffeine from CWW. The highest experimental extraction rate (~ 62%) was achieved using a 15% 1‐hexanol in a hydro‐organic solution of THF (47% v/v). This mixture corresponded to the optimum predicted by a special cubic statistical model (R2 = 0.9367; Adj‐R2 = 0.8608, and RSME = 3.2795). The percentage of caffeine extracted from CWW is considered acceptable, given the compound's affinity for water and the rapid (1 min) and straightforward approach employed. Moreover, the use of SUPRAS reduced solvent consumption, and the proposed statistical model identified conditions that maximized caffeine extraction while minimizing THF usage. This method can potentially lower process costs and solvent consumption. For large‐scale extraction, centrifugation can be substituted with spontaneous sedimentation. Overall, these findings have significant implications for the valorization of CWW, providing a sustainable and efficient method for the extraction of valuable compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rhamnolipid, as a low‐toxic, biodegradable and environmentally friendly biosurfactant, has broad application prospects in many industries. However, the quantitative determination of rhamnolipid is still a challenging task. Here, a new sensitive method for the quantitative analysis of rhamnolipid based on a simple derivatization reaction was developed. In this study, 3‐[3′‐(l‐rhamnopyranosyloxy) decanoyloxy] decanoic acid (Rha‐C10‐C10) and 3‐[3′‐(2′‐O‐α‐l‐rhamnopyranosyloxy) decanoyloxy] decanoic acid (Rha‐Rha‐C10‐C10) were utilized as the representative rhamnolipids. Liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry and high‐performance liquid chromatography‐ultra violet results showed that these two compounds were successfully labeled with 1 N1‐(4‐nitrophenyl)‐1,2‐ethylenediamine. There was an excellent linear relationship between rhamnolipid concentration and peak area of labeled rhamnolipid. The detection limits of the Rha‐C10‐C10 and Rha‐Rha‐C10‐C10 were 0.018 mg/L (36 nmol/L) and 0.014 mg/L (22 nmol/L), respectively. The established amidation method was suitable for the accurate analysis of rhamnolipids in the biotechnological process. The method had good reproducibility with the relative standard deviation of 0.96% and 0.79%, respectively, and sufficient accuracy with a recovery of 96%–100%. This method was applied to quantitative analysis of 10 rhamnolipid homologs metabolized by Pseudomonas aeruginosa LJ‐8. The single labeling method was used for the quantitative analysis of multiple components, which provided an effective method for the quality evaluation of other glycolipids with carboxyl groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study presents a streamlined procedure for synthesizing bis(indolyl)methane derivatives using decanoic acid as a promoting medium. The reactions involve the addition of 2‐methyl‐1H‐indole with different aromatic aldehydes at room temperature for 24 h. Decanoic acid is effective for enhancing the reactivity of aromatic aldehydes through electrophilic activation. The new synthetic method yields pure compounds without requiring workup and purification. This method avoids metal‐containing catalysts and provides a simple, cost‐effective procedure with excellent yield. It is suitable for large‐scale synthesis and eliminates the use of corrosive acids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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A capillary electrophoresis‐mass spectrometry method was used to analyze naphthenic acids in produced water samples. It was possible to detect cyclopentanecarboxylic, benzoic, cyclohexanebutyric, 1‐naphthoic, decanoic, 3,5‐dimethyladamantane‐1‐carboxylic, 9‐anthracenecarboxylic, and pentadecanoic acids within ca. 13 min using a buffer composed of 40 mmol/L ammonium hydroxide, 32 mmol/L acetic acid and 20% v/v isopropyl alcohol, pH 8.6. The proposed method showed good repeatability, with relative standard deviation (RSD) values of 6.6% for the sum of the peak areas and less than 2% for the analysis time. In the interday analysis, the RSD values for the sum of the peak areas and migration time were 10.3% and 10%, respectively. The developed method demonstrated linear behavior in the concentration range between 5 and 50 mg/L for benzoic, decanoic, 3,5‐dimethyladamantane‐1‐carboxylic and 9‐anthracenecarboxylic acids, and between 10 and 50 mg/L for cyclopentanecarboxylic, cyclohexanebutyric, 1‐ naphthoic, and pentadecanoic acids. The detection limits values ranged from 0.31 to 1.64 mg/L. Six produced water samples were analyzed and it was possible to identify and quantify cyclopentanecarboxylic, benzoic, cyclohexanebutyric, and decanoic acids. The concentrations varied between 4.8 and 98.9 mg/L, proving effective in the application of complex samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: The southwestern United States is home to a variety of arthropods including Turkestan cockroaches, Blatta lateralis (Walker); hematophagous kissing bugs, Tritoma rubida (Uhler); and Arizona bark scorpions, Centruroides sculpturatus Ewing. These arthropods cause medical concern when they become established around homes and/or invade indoors. Traditionally, the management of these pests has relied primarily on the use of chemical insecticides; however, they offer poor prospects for control owing to their lack of efficacy as well as the effects of insecticides on humans and the environment. Botanical repellents are an option that has not been fully investigated for the management of these pests. Here, we investigated the behavioral responses of common urban pests of the southwestern USA to recently discovered coconut fatty acids (CFAs), to establish the potential use of these compounds as repellents. RESULTS: Fresh residues of CFA mixture (CFAm) and their constituents caprylic acid, capric acid, capric acid methyl ester, lauric acid, and lauric acid methyl ester, tested at a concentration of 1 mg cm−2, strongly repelled all arthropods. The repellent activity of CFAm lasted for at least 7 days, and the addition of lavender oil, used as an odor‐masking agent, did not decrease this effect. Concentrations of CFAm ten times lower (0.1 mg cm−2) still repelled Turkestan cockroaches, and concentrations 100 times lower (0.01 mg cm−2) repelled T. rubida and scorpions. CONCLUSIONS: CFAm and some of their constituents are efficacious, economical, and logistically feasible for inclusion in integrated pest management programs for these important urban pests of the southwestern USA. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The co‐evolution of peptide formation and membrane self‐assembly is considered an essential step in the origin of life. However, more research is required on both processes, particularly on the interaction between prebiotic simple fatty‐acid membranes and peptide synthesis. In this study, the sodium trimetaphosphate (P3m)‐activated peptide formation reaction of phenylalanine (Phe) in an alkaline decanoic acid‐decanol vesicle system was systematically investigated. The experimental results showed that peptide formation could competitively occur with N‐acyl amino acid (NAA) formation. NAA formation did not follow the traditional P3m‐activated peptide formation reaction involving the intermediate cyclic acylphosphoramidate (CAPA). Decanoic acid was activated by P3m to form a mixed anhydride, which then reacted with an amino acid to form the amide NAA. As a kind of membrane‐forming amphiphile, NAA can form vesicles independently and reduce the critical vesicle concentration of the fatty‐acid vesicles. Moreover, 11 other representative amino acids, namely alanine (Ala), aspartic acid (Asp), glutamic acid (Glu), glycine (Gly), isoleucine (Ile), leucine (Leu), proline (Pro), serine (Ser), threonine (Thr), valine (Val), and arginine (Arg), were selected for investigation. All of them reacted with decanoic acid to form NAA via the activation effect of P3m. The abovementioned mechanism involving P3m‐activated carboxylic acid has not been reported in the literature. Our experimental results indicate that the participation of decanoic acid in the P3m activation‐based peptide formation reaction system plays a significant role in the emergence of functionalized protocells. The P3m activation effect can provide diversified raw membrane materials to form and stabilize protocell membranes; moreover, the small peptides, such as Phe‐Leu, formed in the same reaction system can induce the amplification of primitive cells. This implies that synergistic symbiosis between membrane and peptide can be realized via the P3m activation effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, the effect of with and without phase change materials for long‐term heat storage of a salt gradient solar pond was investigated both experimentally and numerically. Some phase change materials, whose thermal values are close to the operating temperature of the solar pond were selected and examined from fatty acids (camphene, decanoic acid, and palmitic acids) and paraffin derivatives (paraffin wax, C20‐C33, and C16‐C28). A series of experimental studies were then performed with phase change temperature, latent heat and thermal stability, a differential scanning calorimetry, and a thermogravimetric analyzer for sheath, decanoic acid, and palmitic acid. The temperature and enthalpy curve of each phase change material was calculated by months and compared to the solar pond and the longest‐term heat storage was determined. Study shows that the maximum efficiency of the solar pond can be achieved with 24.58% Camphene in November and 22.57% Paraffin C20‐C33 in December. Thus, the camphene shows the best longest‐term heat storage performance thanks to its high melting temperature and density and latent fusion heat. It is one of the best suitable options to improve the heat storage performance of solar ponds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chemical signals are widespread in insects, but those resulting in interspecific communication (i.e., synomones) remain understudied. Here, we analysed chemicals left on substrates by two species of blow fly larvae, Lucilia sericata (Meigen) and Calliphora vomitoria (Linneaus) (Diptera: Calliphoridae), which can aggregate together on carrion. Using solid‐phase microextraction and dynamic headspace analysis, we identified six compounds common to both species: the decanoic, tetradecanoic, pentadecanoic, hexadecanoic and octadecanoic acids, and the 2‐ethylhexyl salicylate. We then tested the behavioural effects of the decanoic and pentadecanoic acids using binary‐choice experiments, along with the (Z)‐9‐tricosene, a pheromone found in many arthropods. The time spent by a larva and its average crawling speed were measured in two sides of an arena, where only one contained a compound at 0.25 or 25 μg/μl. No effect was observed when testing the decanoic acid. The pentadecanoic acid only reduced the speed of C. vomitoria larvae at 25 μg/μl. Finally, L. sericata larvae spent less time in the side containing the (Z)‐9‐tricosene at 0.25 μg/μl, whereas C. vomitoria spent more time and crawled faster in this side at 25 μg/μl. Although these results did not directly evidence synomones, they suggest that the (Z)‐9‐tricosene could regulate larval aggregations on carrion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Goat milk has balanced nutritional composition, is conducive to digestion and absorption, and does not easily lead to allergic reactions. However, the special goaty flavor in milk has seriously affected consumer acceptance. It is imperative to alleviate the goaty flavor in a safe and efficient way. Results: This study indicated that the supplementation of 6 g kg-1 β-cyclodextrin or 8 g kg-1 lactitol in goat milk significantly alleviated goaty flavor and improved sensory characteristics. Furthermore, the supplementation of β-cyclodextrin and lactitol had a synergistic effect in reducing the content of free fatty acids that cause goaty flavor. The content of caproic acid (C6 H12 O2), octanoic acid (C8 H6 O2), and decanoic acid (C10 H20 O2) decreased by 42.46%, 39.45%, and 46.41%, respectively, after a combined group was supplemented with 6 g kg-1 β-cyclodextrin and 7 g kg-1 lactitol, which was significantly lower than in groups given β-cyclodextrin or lactitol individually. Conclusion: This study provides a novel and effective approach to alleviate goaty flavor and promote the competitiveness of goat milk products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This experiment was conducted to investigate the effects of different dosages and types of medium‐chain fatty acids (MCFAs) on rumen fermentation in vitro under low‐ and high‐concentrate diets. For this purpose, two in vitro experiments (Exp.) were conducted. In Exp. 1, the concentrate–roughage ratio of the fermentation substrate [total mixed rations (TMR), dry matter (DM) basis] was 30:70 (low‐concentrate diet), while in Exp. 2, it was 70:30 (high‐concentrate diet). Three types of MCFAs with octanoic acid (C8), capric acid (C10), and lauric acid (C12) were added accounting for 1.5%, 6%, 9%, and 15% of the in vitro fermentation substrate weight (200 mg or 1 g, DM basis) based on control group, respectively. The results showed that the addition of MCFAs all could significantly reduce methane (CH4) production and the number of rumen protozoa, methanogens, and methanobrevibacter under the two diets with the dosages increased (p < 0.05). In addition, MCFAs had a certain degree of improvement on rumen fermentation and influenced in vitro digestibility under low‐ and high‐concentrate diets, and their effects were related to the dosages and types of MCFAs. This study provided a theoretical basis for the selection of types and dosages of MCFAs in ruminants production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The binary mixtures of choline chloride and a series of fatty acids such as Caprylic acid (C8), Capric acid (C10), Lauric acid (C12), Myristic acid (14), and Palmitic acid (C16) have been prepared. The structural and dynamical properties of the eutectic mixture with the constant molar ratio of Ch+Cl−: FAs=1 : 1 was evaluated at 353 K. To analyze the intermolecular interactions in the binary mixtures, the 100 ns MD simulation was implemented using the NPT ensemble. The structure and properties of the binary mixtures were investigated to understand their molecular interactions. The results confirmed that the interaction between chloride ions and fatty acids has played an important role in interrupting the main interaction between the acids in the pure state. However, Interactions between chloride anion and the hydroxyl group of cations are more weakened in the presence of FAs with a shorter chain length. It is well known that there is a similar relationship between the intermolecular interactions and dynamics properties in distinctive structures of DES. Therefore, the other theme of this study is exploring the possible effect of intermolecular interactions on the self‐diffusion coefficients of species and determining the fatty acids that have stronger interactions with choline chloride salt to form the eutectic solvents. The diffusion coefficient of species was calculated by Einstein's equations. The results of dynamics properties showed the strong Hydrogen bonding network of the binary mixture of Caprylic acid and Choline chloride strongly affects molecular migrations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The formulation of a novel functional juice, enriched with wheat germ powder and spirulina algae and based on cantaloupe and pear juice, was optimized by D‐optimal combined design. Firstly, sensory evaluation was performed by hedonic test to evaluate the organoleptic properties, and organoleptically desirable samples were screened for further experiments. Various chemical experiments including PH, acidity, formalin index, total phenol, flavonoids, antioxidant capacity, mineral contents (Fe, Zn, Ca, P, K, Mg, and Cu), and fatty acids profile were evaluated. The steady shear flow rheological test also was performed on the screened samples. The results of sensory evaluation showed that the samples containing 1% spirulina and wheat germ had the highest organoleptic score. The results of physicochemical tests on the selected samples showed that the addition of spirulina and wheat germ powder had little effect on pH, acidity, and formalin index but they affected brix, dry matter, and protein content. Also, the addition of spirulina and wheat germ powder, changed the amounts of antioxidant capacity (from 90 to 98%), total phenol (from 4 to 22 mg GAE/g), and flavonoid content (from 5 to 15 mg/L) in the functional beverages. Furthermore, the results of rheological tests showed that the addition of wheat germ powder in the functional fruit juices increased apparent viscosity however; spirulina did not affect important change in rheological properties. The GC‐Mass analysis presented fatty acid profiles of the functional beverages and confirmed the presence of polyunsaturated fatty acids (for example decanoic acid and heptadecanoic acid) in the samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Efficient and sustainable production of structured phospholipids (SPLs) enriched in medium‐chain fatty acids (MCFAs) in a heterogeneous manner is crucial for their potential applications in functional foods and drugs. Herein, for the first time, Zn‐ and Al‐incorporated SBA‐15 silicas were prepared by the coprecipitation method and further researched for catalytic synthesis of MCFA‐enriched SPLs through acidolysis reaction of natural phospholipids with capric or caprylic acid. RESULTS: The as‐prepared Zn‐ and Al‐incorporated SBA‐15 samples exhibited superior catalytic activities under mild experimental conditions (50 °C, 6 h) to commercial homogeneous Lewis acids and benchmark enzymes. Correspondingly, the capric acid and caprylic acid incorporations were respectively achieved up to ~40.25 ± 0.40% (or 35.08 ± 0.09%) and 37.26 ± 0.38% (or 33.02 ± 0.13%) for Zn‐ (or Al‐) incorporated SBA‐15 catalyst. Moreover, various methods such as scanning electron microscopy with energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectrometry, ultraviolet–visible diffuse reflectance spectroscopy and pyridine–Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy were utilized to characterize the two catalysts in order to elucidate the possible structure–performance relationship. Accordingly, the above‐mentioned satisfactory results are most probably due to the well‐ordered mesostructures and large amounts of active Lewis acid sites existing in the investigated materials. Noticeably, the two catalysts featured good separation and excellent recyclability as well. CONCLUSION: The Zn‐ and Al‐incorporated SBA‐15 catalysts studied in this work might shed light on novel, sustainable and economic alternatives for effective SPL production to diminish the applications of conventional homogeneous catalysts and biocatalysts in food industries. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND Palm kernel is the edible seed of the oil palm fruit obtained during the palm oil milling process. For efficient processing and storage, the moisture content of palm kernel must be reduced to an optimal level by drying. This study aimed to see how drying influenced the physical structure and physicochemical properties of palm kernel and oil. Before and after drying, the free fatty acid (FFA), color, fatty acid composition, Fourier transform infrared, thermal properties and structure of palm kernel were investigated. RESULTS: Results show that drying significantly (P < 0.05) reduced FFA and color of palm kernel oil. Drying also significantly affected (P < 0.05) composition of some fatty acids in palm kernel oil such as capric acid, lauric acid, myristic acid, palmitic acid and oleic acid. However, drying did not affect palm kernel and palm kernel oil functional groups and thermal properties. After drying, structural damage of palm kernel was observed. CONCLUSION: Based on these findings, the quality of kernel oil may be maintained after drying, and it can even be improved based on lower FFA content. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Purpose: AMPA receptors, which shape excitatory postsynaptic currents and are directly involved in overactivation of synaptic function during seizures, represent a well‐accepted target for anti‐epileptic drugs. Trans‐4‐butylcyclohexane carboxylic acid (4‐BCCA) has emerged as a new promising anti‐epileptic drug in several in vitro and in vivo seizure models, but the mechanism of its action remained unknown. The purpose of this study is to characterize structure and dynamics of 4‐BCCA interaction with AMPA receptors. Experimental Approach We studied the molecular mechanism of AMPA receptor inhibition by 4‐BCCA using a combination of X‐ray crystallography, mutagenesis, electrophysiological assays, and molecular dynamics simulations. Key Results: We identified 4‐BCCA binding sites in the transmembrane domain (TMD) of AMPA receptor, at the lateral portals formed by transmembrane segments M1–M4. At this binding site, 4‐BCCA is very dynamic, assumes multiple poses, and can enter the ion channel pore. Conclusion and Implications: 4‐BCCA represents a low‐affinity inhibitor of AMPA receptors that acts at the TMD sites distinct from non‐competitive inhibitors, such as the anti‐epileptic drug perampanel and the ion channel blockers. Further studies might examine the possibsility of synergistic use of these inhibitors in treatment of epilepsy and a wide range of neurological disorders and gliomas. LINKED ARTICLES: This article is part of a themed issue on Structure Guided Pharmacology of Membrane Proteins (BJP 75th Anniversary). To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v179.14/issuetoc [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mason bees (Megachilidae: Osmia) are alternative managed pollinators with the potential to supplement pollination by honey bees in many crops. However, challenges for their management in orchards still remain. If nesting conditions are not optimal, females can show high dispersion rates, which decrease their economic viability at commercial scales. One way to improve female retention is by offering attractive nesting substrates. We tested the effect of several combinations of substrate materials and shelter types, as well as an attractant compound, on the retention and performance of Osmia lignaria and O. cornifrons females. We compared nesting in three types of shelter (blue and white plastic totes and brown pine plywood), with cardboard tubes of four different diameters (5–8 mm), reeds, and wood blocks as substrates at an experimental farm orchard. In a separate experiment with plywood shelters and 7‐mm cardboard tubes, we tested an attractant spray based on decanoic acid (patent number US 9301521B2), a compound isolated from O. lignaria cocoons and expected to encourage females to nest in artificial cavities. In both experiments, O. cornifrons showed higher female retention than O. lignaria. The combination of plywood shelters with reeds had the highest nesting for both species, although O. cornifrons also readily used cardboard tubes of 5–6 mm diameter. The attractant spray increased nesting by O. cornifrons, but not by O. lignaria. We also found a significant interaction between the effect of the attractant and the year of the experiment, indicating that weather and other environmental variables could affect the efficacy of the attractant. Together, our results suggest that using the right combination of shelters and substrates, as well as the attractant spray, is an effective strategy to increase Osmia female retention for orchard pollination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

10‐Hydroxy‐2‐decenoic acid (10‐HDA) is a terminal hydroxylated medium‐chain α,β‐unsaturated carboxylic acid that performs various unique physiological activities and has a wide market value. Therefore, development of an environmentally friendly, safe, and high‐efficiency route to synthesize 10‐HDA is required. Here, the β‐oxidation pathway of Escherichia coli was modified and a P450 terminal hydroxylase (CYP153A33‐CPRBM3) was rationally designed to synthesize 10‐HDA using decanoic acid as a substrate via two‐step whole‐cell catalysis. Different homologues of FadDs, FadEs, and YdiIs were analyzed in the first step of the conversion of decanoic acid to trans‐ ‐2‐ decenoic acid. In the second step, CYP153A33 (M228L)‐CPRBM3 efficiently catalyzed the conversion of trans‐ ‐2‐ decenoic acid to 10‐HDA. Finally, 217 mg L−1 10‐HDA was obtained with 500 mg L−1 decanoic acid. This study provides a strategy for biosynthesis of 10‐HDA and other α, β‐unsaturated carboxylic acid derivatives from specific fatty acids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Capric acid (also known as decanoic acid or C10) is one of the fatty acids in the medium‐chain triglycerides (MCTs) commonly found in dietary fats. Although dietary treatment with MCTs is recently of great interest for the potential therapeutic effects on neuropsychiatric disorders, the effects of oral administration of C10 on behavior remain to be examined. This study investigated acute and chronic effects of oral administration of C10 on locomotor activity and anxiety‐like and depression‐related behaviors in adult male C57BL/6J mice. Methods: To explore the acute effects of C10 administration, mice were subjected to a series of behavioral tests in the following order: light/dark transition, open field, elevated plus maze, Porsolt forced swim, and tail suspension tests, 30 minutes after oral gavage of either vehicle or C10 solution (30 mmol/kg dose in Experiment 1; 0.1, 0.3, 1.0, 3.0 mmol/kg doses in Experiment 2). Next, to examine chronic effects of C10, mice repeatedly administered with either vehicle or C10 solution (0.3, 3.0 mmol/kg doses per day, for 21 days, in Experiment 3) were subjected to behavioral tests without oral administration immediately before each test. Results: The mice administrated with the high dose of C10 (30 mmol/kg) showed lower body weights, shorter distance traveled, and more anxiety‐like behavior than vehicle‐treated mice, and the results reached study‐wide statistical significance. The C10 administration at a lower dose of 0.3 mmol/kg had no significant effects on body weights and induced nominally significantly longer distance traveled than vehicle administration. Repeated administration of C10 at a dose of 3.0 mmol/kg for more than 21 days caused lower body weights and decreased depression‐related behavior, although the behavioral differences did not reach study‐wide significance. Conclusions: Although these results suggest dose‐dependent effects of oral administration of capric acid on locomotor activity and anxiety‐like and depression‐related behaviors, further study will be needed to replicate the findings and explore the underlying brain mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Triacylglycerols (TAGs) can be modified to increase the absorption of fatty acids, prevent obesity, and treat fat malabsorption disorders and metabolic diseases. Medium-long-medium (MLM)-type TAGs, which contain medium-chain fatty acids in the sn-1 and sn-3 positions of the glycerol backbone and a long-chain fatty acid in the sn-2 position, show particularly interesting nutritional characteristics. This study aimed to synthesize MLM-type TAGs by enzymatic acidolysis of grape seed oil with medium-chain capric acid (C10:0) in associated packed bed reactors. The reaction was carried out during 120 H, at 45 °C, using lipase from Rhizomucor miehei (Lipozyme® RM IM). The residence time distribution of reagents in the reactor was quantified to evaluate the reactor behavior and to diagnose the existence of preferential paths. The reaction progress was monitored by analyzing TAG composition and, at the steady state (after 48 H of reaction), the incorporation degree achieved a value of 39.91 ± 2.77%. To enhance the capric acid incorporation, an acidolysis reaction in associated packed bed reactors was performed. The results showed a good operational stability of the biocatalyst, revealing values of half-life 209.64 H, 235.63 H of packed bed and associated packed bed reactor, respectively, and a deactivation coefficient 0.0061 H-1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrophobic deep eutectic solvents (DESs) have emerged as excellent extractants. Their performance depends on the heterogeneous hydrogen bond environment formed by multiple hydrogen bond donors and acceptors. Understanding this heterogeneous hydrogen bond environment can help develop principles for designing high‐performance DESs for extraction and other separation applications. We investigate the structure and dynamics of hydrogen bonds in eight hydrophobic DESs formed by decanoic acid, menthol, thymol, and lidocaine using molecular dynamics simulations. The results show the diversity of hydrogen bonds in the eight DESs and their impact on diffusivity and molecular association. Each DES possesses four to six types of hydrogen bonds and one or two of them overwhelm the others in quantity and lifetime. The dominating hydrogen bonds determine whether the DESs are governed by intra‐ or inter‐component associations. The component diffusivity presents an inverse relationship with the hydrogen bond strength. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Dravet syndrome (DS) is a severe developmental and epileptic encephalopathy with early childhood onset. Patients with DS do not respond well to antiepileptic drugs and have only a few treatment options available. Here, we evaluated the effect of medium chain triglyceride (MCT) diet therapy in a mouse model of DS. Methods: Scn1aR1407X/+ DS mice were given diets supplemented with MCTs with varying ratios of decanoic (C10) and octanoic (C8) acid or a control diet for 4 weeks. Video monitoring was performed to evaluate spontaneous convulsive seizure frequency. Susceptibility to hyperthermia‐induced seizures was also examined. Medium chain fatty acids, and mitochondrial and antioxidant markers were assessed in brain homogenate. Results: Dietary intervention with MCTs significantly prolonged survival and reduced convulsive seizure frequency during the critical period of highest seizure occurrence in the Scn1aR1407X/+ DS mice. Moreover, MCT diet therapy showed protective effects against hyperthermia‐induced seizures. We demonstrated that coadministration of C10/C8 was effective at reducing both seizures and mortality, whereas C10 alone only reduced mortality, suggesting that the ratio of C10 to C8 in the MCT is an important factor for efficacy. When C10 and C8 are supplemented at an 80:20 ratio in the diet, C10 accumulates in the brain in high enough concentrations to enhance brain energy metabolism by both stimulating mitochondrial enrichment and increasing its antioxidant status. Significance: The results from this study indicate that MCT diet therapy may provide therapeutic benefits in DS. Future clinical studies would elucidate whether these positive effects are mirrored in human patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A simple supramolecular dispersive liquid‐liquid microextraction‐solidified floating organic drop (SMDLLME‐SFOD) method was developed for the separation and preconcentration of brilliant green (BG) before its spectrophotometric determination. The method is based on the extraction of ion‐pair of BG with sodium dodecyl sulfate into the coacervates made up of decanoic acid reverse micelles in the tetrahydrofuran‐water mixture. The influence of the effective parameters on the extraction of BG was investigated and optimized using response surface methodology. Under the optimized conditions, the calibration graph was linear in the range of 1.0–50.0 μg L−1 of BG. The limit of detection (LOD) and limit of quantification (LOQ) were 0.28 μg L−1 and 0.94 μg L−1, respectively. The repeatability expressed as the relative standard deviation for six replicate measurements at 5.0 μg L−1 BG was 3.6%. The method was successfully applied to the extraction and determination of BG in different water and fish samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An ecofriendly and efficient ultrasound‐assisted deep eutectic solvents dispersive liquid‐phase microextraction by solidifying the deep eutectic solvents‐rich phase was developed to determine azoxystrobin, fludioxonil, epoxiconazole, cyprodinil, and prochloraz in fruit juices and tea drinks by high‐performance liquid chromatography. A varieties of environmental hydrophobic deep eutectic solvents serving as extraction agents were prepared using L‐menthol and decanoic acid as hydrogen‐bond acceptor and hydrogen‐bond donor, respectively. The deep eutectic solvents were ultrasonically dispersed in sample solutions, solidified in a freezer and easily harvested. The main variables were optimized by one‐factor‐at‐a‐time and response surface test. The new method performs well with relative recovery of 71.75‐109.40%, linear range of 2.5‐5000 μg/L (r ≥ 0.9968), detection limit of 0.75‐8.45 μg/L, quantification limit of 2.5‐25 μg/L,, and inter‐ and intraday relative standard deviations below 13.53 and 14.84%, respectively. As for the extraction mechanism, deep eutectic solvents were disposed into many fine particles in the solution and captured the analytes based on the changes of particle size and quantity in deep eutectic solvents droplets after extraction. The environmental method can successfully detect fungicide residues in real fruit juices and tea drinks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many studies show that glucose metabolism in epileptic brain areas can be impaired. Energy is crucial to maintain normal brain function, including ion and neurotransmitter balances. Energy deficits can lead to disruption of ion gradients, which can trigger neuronal depolarization and generation of seizures. Thus, perturbed metabolic processing of glucose in epileptogenic brain areas indicates a specific nutritional need for people and animals with epilepsy, as they are likely to benefit from auxiliary brain fuels other than glucose. Ketogenic diets provide the ketone bodies acetoacetate and β‐hydroxybutyrate, which can be used as auxiliary fuel by the brain. In approximately 50% children and adults with certain types of epilepsy, who can tolerate and maintain these dietary regimens, seizure frequency can be effectively reduced. More recent data demonstrate that addition of medium chain triglycerides (MCTs), which provide the medium chain fatty acids octanoic and decanoic acid, as well as ketone bodies as auxiliary brain energy, can be beneficial in rodent seizure models, and dogs and humans with epilepsy. Here, this evidence is reviewed, including tolerance in 65% of humans, efficacy studies in dogs, possible anticonvulsant mechanisms of actions of MCTs, and specifically decanoic acid as well as metabolic and antioxidant mechanisms. In conclusion, MCTs are a promising adjunct to standard pharmacological treatment for both humans and dogs with epilepsy, as they lack central nervous system side effects found with current antiepileptic drugs. There is now a need for larger clinical trials in children, adults, and dogs to find the ideal composition and doses of MCTs and the types of epilepsy that respond best. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Candida biofilms are tolerant to conventional antifungal therapeutics and the host immune system. The transition of yeast cells to hyphae is considered a key step in C. albicans biofilm development, and this transition is inhibited by the quorum‐sensing molecule farnesol. We hypothesized that fatty acids mimicking farnesol might influence hyphal and biofilm formation by C. albicans. Among 31 saturated and unsaturated fatty acids, six medium‐chain saturated fatty acids, that is, heptanoic acid, octanoic acid, nonanoic acid, decanoic acid, undecanoic acid and lauric acid, effectively inhibited C. albicans biofilm formation by more than 75% at 2 µg ml−1 with MICs in the range 100–200 µg ml−1. These six fatty acids at 2 µg ml−1 and farnesol at 100 µg ml−1 inhibited hyphal growth and cell aggregation. The addition of fatty acids to C. albicans cultures decreased the productions of farnesol and sterols. Furthermore, down‐regulation of several hyphal and biofilm‐related genes caused by heptanoic or nonanoic acid closely resembled the changes caused by farnesol. In addition, nonanoic acid, the most effective compound diminished C. albicans virulence in a Caenorhabditis elegans model. Our results suggest that medium‐chain fatty acids inhibit more effectively hyphal growth and biofilm formation than farnesol. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polyphenols are phytochemicals that exist in grapes and are beneficial to human health. In this study, resveratrol, oxyresveratrol, and piceatannol in wine were extracted by deep eutectic solvent dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction (DES‐DLLME), and a method was established for quantifying these polyphenols by high‐performance liquid chromatography‐UV/Vis (HPLC‐UV/Vis). Several parameters pertaining to sample extraction, clean‐up, and concentration were optimized and verified with central composite design (CCD) using Design Expert 11. The optimized sample preparation parameters are as follows: the DES extraction solvent, tributylmethylammonium chloride/decanoic acid (1:3 M ratio); basic solvent, 1.3 mL of 5% potassium bicarbonate; volume of acetic anhydride, 250 μL; derivatization time, 5 min; dispersive solvent, methanol; ratio of extraction and dispersive solvents, 1:5.5; and salt, 1.0 g. Chromatographic separation by HPLC/UV–Vis was performed on an ACME C18 (4.6 mm id × 150 mm length, 5 μm particle size) column in gradient elution mode using water and 70% methanol. Under the established extraction and HPLC‐UV conditions, the limit of detection (LOD) and limit of quantitation (LOQ) of the three analytes in spiked samples ranged from 1.69 to 2.53 μg/L and 5.64 to 8.42 μg/L, respectively. Recovery studies were performed in low, medium, and high concentration ranges to establish a calibration curve, and the accuracy and precision in the working range were 95.1–108.0% and 1.3–6.7 RSD%, respectively. The calibration curves for quantitative analysis were obtained in the concentration ranges 5.6–56.4, 8.3–82.6, and 8.4–84.2 μg/L, with correlation coefficients (r2) ranging from 0.9947 to 0.9967. The proposed method was applied to the determination of polyphenols in wine samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: The volatile organic compounds (VOC) and sensory characteristics of milk and mozzarella from farms with different rearing systems were compared. Milk samples were taken from 9 intensive (INT) and 13 semi‐extensive farms (EXT) in the grazing period. VOC were analysed by SPME‐GC‐MS, and sensory evaluation was carried out by paired comparison. The volatile profiles of milks were significantly different: acetone and isopropyl alcohol characterised INT milk, pentanoic and decanoic acids, hexanal, ethylacetate, toluene, dimethyl sulphide characterised milk from EXT farms. Also mozzarella was discriminated by VOC, but only a few compounds derived from milk. Based on sensory evaluation, milk from the two sources can be distinguished by odour and colour, mozzarella only by colour. It was hypothesised that heating during the stretching phase caused volatilisation of many milk volatile compounds and formation new aroma active molecules that overcame the 'primary odours' of milk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, a novel quick, easy, cheap, effective, rugged, and safe technique with hydrophobic natural deep eutectic solvent as both extractant and analyte protectant was developed and combined with gas chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry to analyze pyrethroid residues in tomatoes. Eight hydrophobic natural deep eutectic solvents were first evaluated as analyte protectants and those with decanoic acid or lactic acid as hydrogen bond donor were demonstrated to be effective in compensating for the matrix effects of pyrethroids in the gas chromatography system. Hence, they were added to solvent standards for correcting the quantitation errors instead of matrix‐matched calibration standards. Then the abilities of these acid‐based deep eutectic solvents to extract pyrethriods from tomatoes were evaluated. Results showed the recoveries of all pyrethroids reached to over 80% with only 5 mL menthol:decanoic acid (1:1) used, and good phase separation was easily achieved without the addition of inorganic salt in the extraction step, indicating hydrophobic natural deep eutectic solvent could be a green substitute for acetonitrile in the quick, easy, cheap, effective, rugged, and safe extraction. Compared with the conventional method, the proposed protocol improved the recoveries, reduced the matrix effects, and simplified the extraction step, demonstrating to be an effective, fast, and green method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Our previous GWAS revealed 83 significant SNPs and 20 promising candidate genes associated with milk fatty acid traits in dairy cattle. Out of them, the carboxypeptidase M (CPM) gene contains a genome‐wide significant SNP, Hapmap49848‐BTA‐106779, which is strongly associated with myristic acid (C14:0; P = 0.0064). Herein, we aimed to confirm the genetic effects of CPM on milk fatty acids in Chinese Holstein. Seven SNPs were detected by re‐sequencing the sequences of entire exons and 3000 bp of up‐/downstream flanking regions of the CPM gene, of which three were in 5′ flanking region, one in the 3′ UTR and three were in the 3′ flanking region. Using the Haploview 4.1, we estimated the LD among the identified SNPs and found two haplotype blocks. With the animal model, we performed the SNP‐ and haplotype‐based association analyses, and observed that these SNPs and haplotype blocks mainly had strong genetic associations with medium‐chain saturated fatty acids (caproic acid, C6:0; caprylic acid, C8:0; capric acid, C10:0; and lauric acid, C12:0) (P < 0.0001–0.0257). In addition, using the Genomatix software, we predicted that three SNPs in the 5′ flanking region of CPM (g.45079507A>G, g.45080228C>A and g.45080335C>G) changed the transcription factor binding sites for PREF (progesterone receptor biding site), ZBRK1 (transcription factor with eight central zinc fingers and an N‐terminal KRAB domain), SOX9 (sex‐determining region Y‐box 9, dimeric binding sites), SOX6 (sex‐determining region Y‐box 6) and FOXP1‐ES (alternative splicing variant of FOXP1, activated in ESCs). Further, the dual‐luciferase reporter assay showed these three SNPs altered the transcriptional activity of CPM gene (P ≤ 0.0006). In summary, using the post‐GWAS strategy, we first confirmed the significant genetic effects of CPM with milk fatty acids in dairy cattle, and identified three potential causal mutations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The amino‐3‐hydroxy‐5‐methyl‐4‐isoxazolepropionic acid receptor (AMPAR) is increasingly recognized as a therapeutic target in drug‐refractory pediatric epilepsy. Perampanel (PER) is a non‐competitive AMPAR antagonist, and pre‐clinical studies have shown the AMPAR‐mediated anticonvulsant effects of decanoic acid (DEC), a major medium‐chain fatty acid provided in the medium‐chain triglyceride ketogenic diet. Methods: Using brain tissue resected from children with intractable epilepsy, we recorded the effects of PER and DEC in vitro. Results: We found resected pediatric epilepsy tissue exhibits spontaneous epileptic activity in vitro, and showed that DEC and PER inhibit this epileptiform activity in local field potential recordings as well as excitatory synaptic transmission. Interpretation: This study confirms AMPAR antagonists inhibit epileptiform discharges in brain tissue resected in a wide range of pediatric epilepsies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Zi goose is native to North‐east China and is noted for its high egg production. Alpha enolase (ENO1) is a glycolytic enzyme which functions as a plasminogen receptor in follicular granulosa cells (FGCs), with several studies showing that FGCs can support follicular development. By transfecting the ENO1 interfering plasmid (shRNA) into FGCs, ENO1 expression in these cells was downregulated, suggesting the successful knock‐down of ENO1 in these cells. In this knock‐down model, we detected 13 metabolites from FGCs using LC/MS. When compared with the non‐coding shRNA (NC) group, the lower level metabolites were (R)‐(+)‐citronellic acid, altretamine, 3‐hydroxycaproic acid, heptadecanoic acid, cholecalciferol vitamin D3, indole, benzoic acid, capric acid, caffeic acid, azelaic acid, 3,4‐dihydroxyhydrocinnamic acid and cholic acid, while oleic acid was detected at high levels. To further examine the results of metabolomics, six key metabolites were verified by gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry (GC‐MS). We found that vitamin D3, indole, benzoic acid, capric acid and cholic acid were significantly downregulated in the shRNA group, while oleic acid was significantly upregulated. This observation was consistent with the metabolomics data. Through these studies, we found that decreased ENO1 levels altered certain metabolite levels in FGCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of different processing methods namely enzymatic method using crude protease extract (CPE) from overripe pineapple, microwave‐assisted extraction (MAE) and ultrasound‐assisted extraction (UAE) methods on the recovery yield of virgin coconut oil (VCO) is evaluated. The physicochemical properties of VCOs namely color, iodine value (IV), refractive index, saponification value, moisture content, free fatty acid, p‐anisidine value, lipid peroxidation, fatty acid composition, triacylglycerol (TAG) composition, melting and crystallization profile are compared. The total phenolic compounds and scavenging activity of the extracted VCOs are also examined. Results reveal that enzymatic approach exhibits the highest VCO yield (77.7% ± 0.38) at 50 °C for 2 h, followed by MAE (58.6%±0.07), control without enzyme (24.1%±0.19) and UAE (24.1%±0.12). The physicochemical properties of the VCOs extracted are found to conform to APCC standards established except IV. The antioxidant activity of VCO extracted with CPE shows no significant difference with MAE and UAE methods (p > 0.05). Lauric acid appears to be the most abundant fatty acid detected in all VCO samples. Similar exotherms and endotherms are observed in both melting and crystallization profiles with two distinct peaks exhibited. The TAG compositions of the extracted VCOs are mainly LaLaLa, LaLaM, CLaLa, CCLa, and LaMM (C = Capric acid; La = Lauric acid; M = Myristic acid). Practical Applications: The results obtained from this study indicate that VCO extraction using CPE from overripe pineapple is feasible. The enzymatic extraction protocol presented here would be useful for VCO production at industrial scale with a promising oil yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: A new type of deep eutectic solvent based on three components using phosphate salts has been synthesized, characterized, and applied in the extraction of eight organothiophosphate pesticides from honey samples. In this study, the deep eutectic solvent was prepared from phosphocholine choline chloride as a hydrogen bond acceptor and dichloroacetic acid and decanoic acid as hydrogen bond donors. The method consisted of two steps in which initially the analytes were extracted from the samples into a water‐miscible organic solvent. In the second step, the extracted phase was mixed with the prepared deep eutectic solvent and the mixture was used in the following dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction method. RESULTS: The method was validated under optimal conditions, and it was found that it has low limits of detection (0.05–0.10 ng g−1) and quantification (0.19–0.36 ng g−1), good linearity (r2 ≥ 0.994), broad linearity (0.36–1000 ng g−1), and satisfactory repeatability (relative standard deviation ≤10% for intra‐ (n = 6) and inter‐day (n = 4) precisions at a concentration of 2 ng g−1 of each analyte). CONCLUSION: The proposed method was applied in different honey samples, and malathion was found at a concentration of 29 ng g−1 in one sample. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pretreatment followed by low‐temperature low humidity drying was explored for efficient dehydration of coriander foliage to retain its quality characteristics. Newton, Page, Handerson & Pabis, Logarithmic & Midilli and Kucuk models were used to study the drying kinetics. Hygienic shelf‐stable green dried coriander foliage (HSSGDCF) obtained was evaluated for their flavour, physico‐chemical, microbial and sensory qualities during storage at ambient (65% RH, 27 ± 1°C) and accelerated (92% RH, 37 ± 1°C) conditions for 90 days. Logarithmic model with higher (R2 = 0.9997) and lower root mean square error value (0.0050) showed the best‐fitted model. Major volatiles identified in HSSGDCF were decanal (5.103%), 2‐decenal (10.021%), dodecanal (7.314%), 2‐dodecenal (7.684%), tetradecanal (8.509%), 13‐tetradecenal (19.393%) and decanoic acid decyl ester (6.051%). Degradation of chlorophyll, carotenoid and colour values were higher at 37 ± 1°C during storage. HSSGDCF was found to be microbiologically safe and sensorily acceptable at the end of 90 days at 27 ± 1°C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: The effectiveness of mosquito repellents, whether applied topically on the skin or released from a wearable device, is determined by the evaporation rate. This is because a repellent has to be present in the form of a vapour in the vicinity of the exposed skin that needs protection. Therefore, gravimetric techniques were used to investigate the direct evaporation of selected liquid repellents, their permeation through polymer films, and their release from a microporous polyethylene matrix. RESULTS: Evaporation of a repellent into quiescent air is determined by its air permeability. This is a product of the vapour pressure and the diffusion coefficient, i.e. SA=PAsatDA. It was found that repellents could be ranked in terms of decreasing volatility as: ethyl anthranilate > citriodiol > dimethyl phthalate > N,N‐diethyl‐meta‐toluamide (DEET) > decanoic acid > ethyl butylacetylaminopropionate > Icaridin. Experimental SA values, at 50 °C, ranged from 0.015 ± 0.008 mPa m2 s−1 for the least volatile repellent (Icaridin) to 0.838 ± 0.077 mPa m2 s−1 for the most volatile (ethyl anthranilate). The release rate from microporous polyethylene strands, produced by extrusion‐compounding into ice water baths followed a similar ranking. These strands featured an integral skin‐like membrane that covered the extruded strands and controlled the release of the repellent at a low effective rate. CONCLUSION: The high thermal and thermo‐oxidative stability together with the low volatility of the mosquito repellents ethyl butylacetylaminopropionate and Icaridin make them attractive candidates for long‐lasting wearable mosquito‐repellent devices. Such anklets/bracelets may have utility for outdoor protection against infective mosquito bites in malaria‐endemic regions. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Regioselective hydroxylation on inactivated C−H bonds is among the dream reactions of organic chemists. Cytochrome P450 enzymes (CYPs) perform this reaction in general with high regio‐ and stereoselectivity (e. g. for steroids as substrates). Furthermore, enzyme engineering may allow to tune the properties of the enzyme. Regioselective hydroxylation of shorter or linear molecules (fatty acids), however, remains challenging even with this enzyme class, due to the high similarity of the substrate's backbone carbons and their conformational flexibility. CYPs hydroxylating fatty acids selectively in the chemically more distinct α‐ or ω‐ position are well described. In contrast, selective in‐chain hydroxylation of fatty acids lacks precedence. The peroxygenase CYP152A1 (P450Bsβ) is a family member that displays fatty acid hydroxylation at both, the α‐ and β‐position, with preference for the α‐position. Herein we report the influence of hydrophobic active site residues on the hydroxylation pattern of this enzyme. By site directed mutagenesis and combination of the libraries, double and triple mutation variants were identified, which hydroxylated decanoic acid (C10) with improved regio‐selectivity in the β‐position. Variants were identified with a 10‐fold increase of the β‐regioselectivity (expressed as α/β‐ratio) compared to the wild type. In total 103 variants of CYP152A1 (P450Bsβ) were investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Each year, thousands of patients die from antimicrobial‐resistant bacterial infections that fail to respond to conventional antibiotic treatment. Antimicrobial polymers are a promising new method of combating antibiotic‐resistant bacterial infections. We have previously reported the synthesis of a series of narrow‐spectrum peptidomimetic antimicrobial polyurethanes that are effective against Gram‐negative bacteria, such as Escherichia coli; however, these polymers are not effective against Gram‐positive bacteria, such as Staphylococcus aureus. With the aim of understanding the correlation between chemical structure and antibacterial activity, we have subsequently developed three structural variants of these antimicrobial polyurethanes using post‐polymerization modification with decanoic acid and oleic acid. Our results show that such modifications converted the narrow‐spectrum antibacterial activity of these polymers into broad‐spectrum activity against Gram‐positive species such as S. aureus, however, also increasing their toxicity to mammalian cells. Mechanistic studies of bacterial membrane disruption illustrate the differences in antibacterial action between the various polymers. The results demonstrate the challenge of balancing antimicrobial activity and mammalian cell compatibility in the design of antimicrobial polymer compositions. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Unlike for glucose, uptake of the brain's main alternative fuel, ketones, remains normal in mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Ketogenic medium chain triglycerides (kMCTs) could improve cognition in MCI by providing the brain with more fuel. Methods: Fifty‐two subjects with MCI were blindly randomized to 30 g/day of kMCT or matching placebo. Brain ketone and glucose metabolism (quantified by positron emission tomography; primary outcome) and cognitive performance (secondary outcome) were assessed at baseline and 6 months later. Results: Brain ketone metabolism increased by 230% for subjects on the kMCT (P <.001) whereas brain glucose uptake remained unchanged. Measures of episodic memory, language, executive function, and processing speed improved on the kMCT versus baseline. Increased brain ketone uptake was positively related to several cognitive measures. Seventy‐five percent of participants completed the intervention. Discussion: A dose of 30 g/day of kMCT taken for 6 months bypasses a significant part of the brain glucose deficit and improves several cognitive outcomes in MCI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The conversion of saturated fatty acids to high value chiral hydroxy‐acids and lactones poses a number of synthetic challenges: the activation of unreactive C−H bonds and the need for regio‐ and stereoselectivity. Here the first example of a wild‐type cytochrome P450 monooxygenase (CYP116B46 from Tepidiphilus thermophilus) capable of enantio‐ and regioselective C5 hydroxylation of decanoic acid 1 to (S)‐5‐hydroxydecanoic acid 2 is reported. Subsequent lactonization yields (S)‐δ‐decalactone 3, a high value fragrance compound, with greater than 90 % ee. Docking studies provide a rationale for the high regio‐ and enantioselectivity of the reaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]