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In this study, total phenolic contents and antioxidant activity were determined in various products made from two cultivars of jamman fruit (Eugenia jambolana) i.e. improved (V1) and indigenous (V2). Five products were made from each cultivar such as jam, squash, ready-to-drink juice, pulp powder and seed powder. Fruit cultivars were endogenous to the typical region of Sindh-Pakistan. Total phenolic contents were analyzed by Folin-Ciocalteu colorimetric method, whereas, the total antioxidant activity was analyzed by using the 2, 2-diphenil-1-picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging capacity (DPPH) assays. The highest total phenolic contents and antioxidants were observed in freeze dried seed powder while the lowest contents were found in squash.

To attain maximum recovery of useful compounds from slaughterhouse waste (Suet, Tongue, Pancreas) of selected ruminant (cow, goat, lamb, and bull), the fat extraction efficiency of popular methods was compared along with fatty acid (FAs) composition. Four selected methods including Soxhlet (SOX), acid hydrolysis, Bligh & dyer (B&D), and Folch (FOL) were assessed. After methylation, extracted lipids were analyzed by Gas chromatography for FA composition. Data indicated that all selected methods were significantly (p < 0.05) different from each other, particularly higher differences were noticed for low lipid-containing products (Tongue, Pancreas) as well as their respective FA Composition. Based on Analysis of Variance and Principal component analysis, the effective method for lipid and FA Composition analysis was the FOL method. The Soxhlet method was only effective for samples with high-fat content i.e., suet, while the B&D method gave comparatively low lipid content in analyzed samples. Hence based on the results, excellent fat and fatty acid extraction was achieved with the FOL method.

In the present study, As3+ imprinted polymer as an active detoxification material has been synthesized through microwave assisted preparation method. By inducing the microwave radiation during the polymerization process decreases the reaction time to about 10 folds than conventional method. The imprinted polymer is one of the best possible techniques for the removal of arsenic, and various other contaminants from drinking water. The SEM and FTIR analyses have been conducted to clarify microstructure, surface morphology and size distribution of the synthesized imprinted polymer. The main parameters affecting the pzc, pH, agitation time, shaking speed, concentration, the temperature of adsorbent and percent of sorption, have been examined and optimized by Taguchi design. Taguchi L9 orthogonal array was employed to optimize the important factors versus % sorption values with nine experimental runs at 3 levels. Moreover, to understand the reaction phenomenon Langmuir and Freundlich isotherms, kinetic models and thermodynamics of adsorption process were calculated. The relative selectivity coefficient of imprinted polymer for As3+/Cd2, As3+/Zn2+, As3+/Ni2+were respectively 45.93, 131.01, 262.63 times greater than for non-imprinted polymer. The limit of detections (LOD) and limit of quantification (LOQ) of the proposed procedure for As3+ ion was found to be 1.0 µg/L and 3.3 µg/L for the As3+ ion respectively, with the relative standard deviation (RSD) of 4%. The excellent adsorption performance along with their low cost and convenient synthesis makes this range of adsorbent highly promising for commercial applications in drinking water purification and water treatment.

Sensitive cathodic stripping voltammetric methods have been developed for two fluoroquinolone antibacterial drugs, norfloxacin and enoxacin. Dimethylformamide (DMF) and 0.1 M hydrochloric acid were used as media for norfloxacin and enoxacin respectively. Potassium chloride was used as base electrolyte. A reduction wave was observed for norfloxacin within the range of -1.02 to -1.13V and for enoxacin within -0.93 to -1.07V. Linear calibration ranges for norfloxacin and enoxacin were observed within 20-100μg/mL and 1-40μg/mL with detection limits of 10μg/mL and 50ng/mL respectively Relative standard deviations (RSD) for the analysis of 10μg/mL norfloxacin and 10μg/mL enoxacin (n=5) were observed 1.l% and 0.2%. The presence of glucose, lactose, sorbitol, gum arabic, starch, magnesium stearate, methylparaben and propylparaben did not affect the determination. The methods were used for the analysis of pharmaceutical preparations and quantitative recoveries were obtained with relative deviation within 1.6-4.75%.

Human body is greatly exposed to aluminum due to its high abundance in the environment. This nonessential metal is a threat to the patients of chronic renal disorders, as it is easily retained in their plasma and quickly accumulates in different tissues. Thus, there is great need to remove it from the aqueous environment. In this study, Al3+ imprinted semiinterpenetrating polymer network (semi-IPN)-based cryogel composite was prepared and applied for the purification of environmental and drinking water samples from aluminum. Poly (2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate) (pHEMA) discs were produced via cryogenic treatment and imprinted semi-IPN was introduced to the 3-(trimethoxysilyl) propyl acrylate-modified macroporous cryogel discs. The adsorption properties and selectivity of the aluminum (III) imprinted semi-IPN cryogel composite were studied in detail. The imprinted semi-IPN cryogel composite showed good selectivity towards aluminum (III) ions with the imprinting factor (IF) of 76.4 in the presence of competing copper (II), nickle (II), and iron (III) ions. The maximum adsorption capacity of 271 mu mol g(-1) was obtained for aluminum (III) at pH 7.0 within 10 min using imprinted semi-IPN cryogel composite. The good selectivity and reusability of aluminum (III)-imprinted semi-IPN cryogel composite makes this material an eligible candidate for the purification of drinking water from aluminum (III) leaving important minerals remained in the water.

Egusi seed shells (ESS) were used as precursor for the preparation of two activated carbons (ACs) following H3PO4 and ZnCl2 activation. The effect of factors controlling the preparation of ACs such as chemical activating agent concentration (2 - 10 M), activation temperature (400°C - 700°C) and residence time (30 - 120 min) were optimized using the Box-Behnken Design (BBD). The optimized activated carbons based H3PO4 (ACP) and ZnCl2 (ACZ) were characterized by N2 adsorption, elemental analysis, atomic force microscopy (AFM), Boehm titration and Fourier transformed infrared (FTIR) techniques. The specific surface area was found to be 1053.91 and 1009.89 m2·g-1 for ACP and ACZ respectively. The adsorbents had similar surface functionalities and were both microporous. The effect of various parameters such as initial pH, concentration, and contact time on the adsorption of nitrate ions on ACP and ACZ in aqueous solution was studied. ACZ demonstrated better adsorption capacity (8.26 mg·g-1) compared to ACP (5.65 mg·g-1) at the same equilibrium time of 20 min. The adsorption process was governed by a “physical interactions” phenomenon for both adsorbents.

Interfacial polymerization (IP) is recently evolved method to fabricate solvent resistant nanofiltration (SRNF) membrane. Herein the preparation of SRNF is presented which involves the polymerization of piperazine (PIP) and trimesoyl chloride (TMC) on the surface of inert support i.e. Celgard 2400. The extent of interfacial polymerization (IP) on Celgard 2400 membrane was examined afterwards by different analytical techniques including atomic force microscopy (AFM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Their outcome revealed obvious surface modification of Celgard 2400 with thin and homogenous polyamide layer. Furthermore, the sugar (dextrose, sucrose and raffinose) solutions were passed from SRNF membranes to calculate the molecular weight cutoff (MWCO). Based on sugar rejection, the value of MWCO of SRNF membranes come in the range of nanofiltration (> 300 Da). An economical, chemical resistant, homemade NF Cell was fabricated to conduct permeation study through these membranes. Effect of various reaction conditions i.e. monomer concentrations, curing temperature and reaction time on the synthesis of SRNF membranes was optimized. Bromothymol blue (BTB) was selected dye in ethanol to permeate across SRNF membranes. The rise in monomer concentrations augments the rejection of BTB thereby declining ethanol flux, owing to more even surface coverage of Celgard 2400 membrane. Moreover, the reaction time and curing temperature affect the BTB rejection and ethanol flux in the same way. The pore size in SRNF membranes was estimated theoretically by Hagen-Poiseuille as ~0.59 nm. In conclusion, PIP-TMC monomeric system synthesized stable, homogenous and effective SRNF membranes with distinct rejection and flux values.

In present work chitosan functionalized magnetic nanoparticles (CMNPs) were successfully prepared and investigated for the removal of Reactive Orange 107 dye (RO 107) from water. The chitosan was extracted from shrimp shells (Penaeus merguiensis) and was characterized by solubility test and fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Degree of deacetylation of chitosan was examined by 1H-NMR and potentiometric titration method. Thereafter, the chitosan was used for synthesis of CMNPs. The synthesized CMNPs were characterized by FTIR, scanning electron microscopy-energy dispersive spectroscopy (SEM-EDS), thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA) and atomic force microscopy (AFM). Effects of various variables such as contact time, pH, stirring speed, adsorbent dosage, temperature, and concentration of electrolyte on extraction efficiency were evaluated. Freundlich isotherm model fits better that shows the removal of RO 107 with CMNPs by multilayer adsorption behaviour. Furthermore, kinetic study showed that adsorption process followed pseudo-second order kinetic model regulated by chemisorption. Thermodynamic analysis explained that adsorption of RO 107 onto CMNPs was endothermic as well as spontaneous. The developed CNMPs were applied to environmental remediation of spiked RO 107 treated waste water samples with 96.20% removal potential, hence, offered an effective sorbent for removal of RO 107 contaminated water samples.

Herein we demonstrate a simplistic microwave assisted chemical precipitation approach regarding the synthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles. As-prepared ZnO nanoparticles (NPs) were characterized by UV–visible spectroscopy, Fourier transform infra-red spectroscopy, atomic force microscopy and x-ray diffractometry and scrutinized as photo-catalysts for degradation of 4-chlorophenol (4-CP) under sunlight. The study substantiated that 98.5% of 4-CP was degraded within 20 min in the absence of initiator like H2O2 which reflects an outstanding prospective use for ZnO NPs as photo-catalysts. The nanocatalysts were recycled four times and still showed catalytic efficiency up to 95.5% for degradation of 4-CP in the specified 20 min.

Anthocyanins ACNs are water soluble plant pigments having a vital role in plant physiology and human health Grewia asiatica L genus Tiliaceae is a fruit producing shrub originating from south Asia Pakistan India East Cambodia cultivated mainly for its comestible fruit and well reported diverse medicinal uses The current study was the first attempt to characterize ACNs from G asiatica native to Pakistan Results revealed that maximum anthocyanin extraction yield micro g g was obtained with acidified methanol as compared to other investigated solvents water methanol ethanol and their binary mixture Total seven ACNs were identified including non acylated delphinidin O glucoside peonidin O glucoside pelargonidin O malonyl glucoside acylated cyanidin peonidin and pelargonidin O rdquo acetylglucoside and pyranoanthocyanin Malvidin O glucoside pyruvic acid Among them cyanidin O quot acetylglucoside was the major ACN comprising micro g g of total ACNs composition followed by peonidin O glucoside consisting of micro g g and pelargonidin O rdquo acetyl glucoside micro g g Moreover the study of ACNs stability at the temperature deg C testified the better temperature tolerance by ACNs under dark at temperature ranging deg C Hence the results revealed that G asiatica is a potent fruit rich in ACNs and can be used as food colorant and nutraceutical

Poly(2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate-glycidyl methacrylate) [p(HEMA-GMA)] cryogel discs were prepared under sub-zero temperatures. Gelatin was attached covalently on the p(HEMA-GMA) cryogel discs and reversible immobilization of horseradish peroxidase (HRP) was performed. The p(HEMA-GMA) cryogel discs were characterized by swelling tests, scanning electron microscopy, and surface area measurements. HRP immobilization capacity of p(HEMA-GMA)/gelatin cryogel discs was 24.8 mg/g. Removal of phenol from aqueous solutions was performed using HRP immobilized p(HEMA-GMA)/gelatin cryogel. It was observed that within 2 h of contact time, the percentage of phenol removal reaches up to 91% in the presence of H2O2.

A monolithic column with high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with an ultraviolet detector was investigated for the determination of ochratoxin A in poultry feed. A systematic study was performed using solid phase extraction with a C-18 cartridge for sample pretreatment with three solvent systems. Ethyl acetate:methanol:formic acid (95:5:0.5) was found to be the most suitable. Pretreated samples were injected separately into packed and monolithic columns. The effects of the mobile phases on the chromatographic figures of merits were evaluated. Better peak symmetry, improved separation, and more theoretical plates were observed using an acetonitrile:water:formic acid (99:99:2) mobile phase. The repeatability and accuracy of the method were statistically evaluated and found to be satisfactory with a limit of detection of 40 mu gL(-1). The use of a monolithic column in conjunction with sample pretreatment provided good results for the determination of ochratoxin A in poultry feed.

The effect of different cooking methods (Raw, steaming, microwave cooking, baking, grilling, pan frying and deep frying) on proximate composition and fatty acid profile of Labeo calbasu fish species from Pakistan were analyzed to determine the nutritional qualities in terms of the long chain n-3 PUFA particularly EPA and DHA. In all cooking methods moisture content decrease and protein content increased as compare to raw sample. The moisture content of fish sample seemed to be inversely related to the total extractable lipid content. In steamed, microwave, baked, grilled and pan fried methods MUFA were the abundant fatty acids followed by SFA and PUFA. Deep fried fish sample had the opposite trend having highest PUFA as contrast to MUFA and SFA. Long chain n-3 PUFA were found higher in contrast to n-6 PUFA in all other cooking methods excluding deep frying. The results indicates that steamed and grilled cooking are the best cooking method for healthy eating as they contain more n-3 PUFA (EPA and DHA). Losses of n-3 content in pan fried and deep fried fish were higher than those of fish cooked by other methods.

Aim Calligonum polygonoides Linn. (Polygonaceae) is commonly known as ‘Phog’ contains number of phytochemical constituents' viz. flavonoids, alkaloids, proteins, tannins, steroids, phenols, carbohydrates, terpenoids etc. The aim of the present study was to isolate and characterize steroids from the roots of C. polygonoides. Method Methanol extract of the roots of plant was subjected to column chromatography and eluted with solvent mixtures of increasing polarity, composed of chloroform, chloroform–ethyl acetate mixtures and ethyl acetate to isolate phytochemical constituents. The identities of these compounds were checked by solubility, preliminary phytochemical test, melting point determination and TLC study. Finally the structure was elucidated by different chromatographic and spectroscopic methods. Results On the basis of chemical and spectral evidence and upon comparison with the literature data, the isolated compounds were identified as campesterol (1), stigmasterol (2), (3β,5α,24S)-stigmastan-3-ol (3) and stigmast-4-en-3-one (4). Conclusion The steroids were isolated from the roots of C. polygonoides may serve as a potential source of useful drugs in the near future. The steroids were isolated first time from this plant extract.

The aim of study is to investigate the removal ability of some natural adsorbents for fluoride ion from aqueous solution. The batch dynamic adsorption method was carried out at neutral pH as the functions of contact time, adsorbent dose, adsorbate concentration, temperature and effect of co-anions, which are commonly present in water. The sorption kinetics and equilibrium adsorption isotherms of fluoride on natural adsorbing materials had been investigated at afore-mentioned optimized. Equilibrium adsorption isotherms, viz., Freundlich and Langmuir isotherms were investigated. Lagergren and Morris-Weber kinetic equations were employed to find the rate constants. The negative enthalpy ΔH = -46.54 KJ·mol-1 and Gibbs free energy calculated was ΔG288-333—(2.07785, 3.08966, 4.1064, 4.90716 and 5.38036 KJ·mol-1) respectively, envisage exothermic and spontaneous nature of sorption.

The extracted oils from four apple seed varieties (Royal Gala, Red Delicious, Pyrus Malus and Golden Delicious) from Pakistan were investigated for their fatty acid profiles and lipid biactives by GC-MS. The oil contents in the seeds of the apple varieties ranged from 26.8-28.7%. The results revealed that linoleic acid (40.5-49.6%) was the main fatty acid in the Royal Gala, Red Delicious and Pyrus Malus seeds, and oleic acid (38.7-45.5%) was the main fatty acid in the Golden Delicious seeds. Palmitic acid (6.1-7.4%) and stearic acid (2.0-3.1%) were the dominant saturated fatty acids, besides the small amount of palmitoleic, heptadecanoic, linolenic, archidic, eicosanoic, and behenicacids. Sterols, tocopherols, hydrocarbons and some other minor components were also identified from the unsaponifiable lipid fraction. The variation among the results of both fatty acids and lipid bioactives for the four different varieties was assessed by principal component analysis, discriminant analysis and cluster analyses. The results conclude that both oil fractions could be applied as a useful tool to discriminate among the apple seed varieties.Se ha estudiado el perfil de ácidos grasos y lípidos biactivos mediante GC-MS del aceite extraído de semillas de cuatro variedades de manzanas de Pakistán (Royal Gala, Red Delicious, Pyrus Malus y Golden Delicious). El contenido de aceite en las semillas de las variedades de manzanas estudiadas oscilaron desde 26,8 hasta 28,7%. Los resultados mostraron que el ácido linoleico (40.5-49.6%) fue el principal ácido graso de las semillas de las variedades Royal Gala, Red Delicious y Pyrus Malus, y el ácido oleico (38,7-45,5%) fue el principal ácido graso de Golden Delicious. Los ácidos palmítico (6.1-7.4%) y esteárico (2,0-3,1%) fueron los ácidos grasos saturados predominantes, las semillas contenían también pequeñas cantidades de palmitoleico, heptadecanoico, linolénico, araquídico, eicosanoico, y behénico. Esteroles, tocoferoles, hidrocarburos, y otros componentes menores también fueron identificados a partir de la fracción insaponificable. La variación de los resultados de ambos, ácidos grasos y lípidos bioactivos, de cuatro variedades diferentes se evaluó mediante análisis de componentes principales, análisis discriminante y análisis de cluster. Los resultados concluyen que las dos fracciones lipídicas de semillas de manzanas podrían aplicarse como una herramienta útil para distinguir variedades.

Ber is a tropical fruit which grows from the tree species, Ziziphus mauritiana Lamk. The pericarp of this fruit is consumed either fresh or dried while its seeds are usually discarded as waste. The present study was undertaken to evaluate the antioxidant activity and phenolic content of the fruit, and to evaluate if any potential value-added phytochemicals can be extracted from seed waste. The edible portion of the fruit was extracted with 60% aqueous methanol by sonication and then assayed for total phenolic content, antioxidant activity, and individual phenolic compounds by HPLC-DAD. The seed oil extracted with n-hexane was assayed for fatty acid composition, sterols, and tocopherols content by GC-MS. The total phenolic content of the fresh fruit was 1.28 g/100 g gallic acid equivalent, with an antioxidant activity of 50.9 μmol/100 g quercetin equivalent by Folin-Ciocalteu and DPPH assays respectively. Hydroxybenzoic acid, vanillin, ortho- and para-coumaric acid, epicatechin, quercetin, and naringenin were tentatively identifi ed by matching retention time and UV spectra with those of commercial reference standards. GC-MS analysis of the TMS derivative of fruit extract showed the presence of following compounds: propanoic, hexanoic, heptanoic, octanoic, nonanoic, decanoic, dodecanoic, n-pentadecanoic, hexadecanoic, benzoic, and trihydroxybenzoic acids. In addition, D-fructose, galactofuranoside, gluconic acid, and β-sitosterol were also detected. In seed oil of ber, the fatty acids such as, hexanoic, octanoic, 7-octadecenoic, 9,12-octadecendoic, eicosanoic, 11-eicosenoic, and docosanoic acid with 7-octadecenoic acid, were found to make up 55% of total fatty acids. Squalene, γ-tocopherol and stigmasterol were identifi ed as minor constituents in the unsaponifi able fraction of seed oil. Current study shows that ber fruit is a good source of healthy phytochemicals. Original Paper Section: Food Quality and Functionality

This study was aimed to assess the adsorption and leaching potential of imidacloprid pesticide in column and field soil. To visibly understand these actions and factors affecting them, the experiments were carried out under laboratory and field conditions. Adsorption study was divided into kinetic and equilibrium sections. The evaluation of kinetic data was done through pseudo first and second order models. It was found that kinetic adsorption of imidacloprid on soil followed pseudo second order with rate constant value of 4.333 mg/g/h. Langmuir and Freundlich isotherms were used to explain equilibrium adsorption, from these isotherms it was evaluated that Freundlich isotherm was obeyed well with adsorption capacity of 2.190 - 4.573 mol/g. Leaching study was performed in laboratory using column made of poly-vinyl chloride having 30 cm length. Known amount of imidacloprid pesticide was applied to column left for adsorption and then eluted with 500 mL water in five equal portions. These water portions and soil of column which was divided into three sections were analyzed by HPLC. The result revealed that the concentration of imidacloprid was decreased from 0.481 ppm in first portion of water to 0.327 ppm in last portion of water while 0.783 ppm in first section of column soil to 0.038 ppm in last section of column soil. In field the leaching power of imidacloprid was observed up to 60 cm depth, its concentration decreased with soil depth. It was 3.311 ppm in first portion of soil and 0.357 ppm in last portion of soil. The leaching potential of imidacloprid pesticide up to 60 cm soil depth was due to less organic matter, sandy texture, alkaline pH, and low cation exchange capacity.

In the present study, the quality of frying oil, as affected by commercial pan fish frying, was investigated. The quality of fresh frying oil, null replenishment (NR) oil, and discarded frying oil were evaluated by drawing out the oil samples from the fryer at the initial stage, just before the addition of new frying oil for level make-up and used oil of the last frying cycle, respectively. The parameters used to assess the quality were the fatty acid composition including trans fatty acid (TFA), free fatty acid, and peroxide values of frying oil. Gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy (GC-MS) was used to examine fatty acids profiles of the frying oils. Trans fatty acid in fresh oils varied from 2.5%–3.8% (except oil-6, which contained 13%), whereas NR oils and discarded oils contained 5.6%–14.8% and 7.3%–20.8% trans fatty acids, correspondingly. Free fatty acid in fresh, NR, and discarded oils were 0.12%–0.24%, 0.22%–1.74%, and 0.80%–3.39%, respectively. Peroxide value in fresh, NR, and discarded oils were...

Summary A rapid and reliable analytical procedure has been developed for the separation and analysis of dioxouranium, thorium, gold, and mercury by micellar electrokinetic chromatography (MEKC) using bis(acetylacetone)ethylenediamine (H2AA2en) as complexing reagent. Under the optimized conditions (64 mm borate buffer containing 12.25 mm SDS and 13% acetonitrile, pH 8.0, 25 kV, 311 nm as detection wavelength) the ions were separated within 5.0 min. Linear dynamic ranges were 1–5, 8–42, 10–50, and 2–40 μg mL−1, respectively, for gold, mercury, thorium, and uranium and the respective detection limits were 0.66, 3.33, 1.6, and 3.3 μg mL−1. The applicability of method has been evaluated by application to uranium and thorium from ore samples.

A market based survey was carried out to evaluate the level of 26 pesticides in some commonly used fruits in Hyderabad region, Pakistan. Gas chromatography coupled with micro electron capture detector was used to assess the levels of pesticide residues. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) was also applied for the confirmation of results. Out of total 131 analyzed samples, 53 (40%) were found contaminated with pesticide residues while only 3 (2%) samples were exceeded the MRLs of some pesticides. Chlorpyrifos and dieldrin were detected in almost all analyzed samples. Residues of chlorpyrifos (1256 µg/kg) and endosulfan sulfate (1236 µg/kg) were found higher in orange and apple samples, respectively. The findings of this study provided important data about contamination of pesticide residue in some fruits sold in Hyderabad, Pakistan, and recommended that monitoring studies should be expanded to other fruits grown in different agro climatic regions, which may serve as basis for future policy about the standards and quality control of pesticides.

Eight species of freshwater fish from the Indus River were analyzed for their proximate composition and fatty acid (FA) profile. Differences were observed (P < 0.05) for moisture (59.95–79.45%), ash (0.05–4.95%), crude protein (17–20.09%) and lipid (0.85–18.32%) contents. The changes in FA profiles of fish species were significant (P < 0.05). The monounsaturated (MUFA) fatty acid content (24.55–48.35 g/100 g) was higher than the saturated fatty acid (SFA) (25.04–41.02 g/100 g) and polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) (15.72–35.34 g/100g). The predominant PUFAs were eicosapentaenoic acid (C20:5 n-3) and docosahexaenoic acid (C22:6 n-3). All of the fish species had n-3/n-6 within the recommended values (1–4), which confirms he importance of River Indus fish as a significant dietary source of n-3 PUFA.

Sensitive cathodic stripping voltammetric methods have been developed for two quinolone antibacterial drugs, pipemidic acid (PIP) and ofloxacin (OFL) using hanging mercury drop electrode as working electrode vs. Ag/AgCl reference electrode. The methods were developed for the determination of drugs individually as well as simultaneously. 0.1 M and 0.01 M hydrochloric acid was used as medium for PIP and OFL, respectively, 0.1 M potassium chloride was used as base electrolyte. Reduction waves were observed for PIP within −700 mV to −800 mV and for OFL within −1100 mV to −1200 mV. Linear calibration ranges for PIP and OFL were observed within 10–100 μg ml−1 with detection limits of 50 ng ml−1 and 1 μg ml−1, respectively. Relative standard deviations (RSD) for the analysis of 10 gµg ml−1 of PIP and OFL (n = 6) were 0.5% and 1.4%, respectively. The presence of glucose, lactose, sorbitol, gum arabic, starch, magnesium stearate, methylparaben and propylparaben did not affect the determinations of both PIP and OFL. The methods were used for the analysis of pharmaceutical preparations and the results indicated relative deviation of 0.5–5.5% from labeled values with RSD within 0.49–2.5%. PIP and OFL could also be determined simultaneously, and were determined from spiked human urine.

The sorption efficiency of chickpea husk of black gram variety (BGH), for the removal of organophosphorous pesticides (OPPs), i.e. triazophos (TAP) and methyl parathion (MP) from aqueous media has been investigated. Optimization of operating sorption parameters, i.e. particle size, sorbent dose, agitation time, pH, initial concentration of sorbates, and temperature has been studied. The sorption data fitted well to Freundlich, Langmuir and Dubinin–Radushkevich (D–R) sorption isotherms. The maximum sorption capacities of BGH for TAP and MP were calculated to be 3.5 ± 0.45 and 10.6 ± 0.83 mmol g −1 by Freundlich, 0.0077 ± 0.021 and 0.025 ± 0.0094 mmol g −1 by Langmuir and 0.48 ± 0.037 and 0.15 ± 0.077 mmol g −1 by D–R isotherms respectively, employing 0.2 g of sorbent, at pH 6, 90 min agitation time and at 303 K. Application of first order Lagergren and Morris–Weber equations to the kinetic data yielded correlation coefficients, close to unity and showed partial intra-particle diffusion. The negative values of thermodynamic parameters, i.e. Δ H (kJ mol −1 ), Δ S (J mol −1 K −1 ) and Δ G (kJ mol −1 ) indicate the exothermic and spontaneous nature of the sorption process. The sorbed pesticides were recovered by sonication with methanol, making the regeneration and reutilization of the sorbents promising. The investigated sorbent exhibited potential applications in water decontamination, treatments of industrial and agricultural waste waters and thus productively demonstrated viable use of agricultural waste material.

This study describes the use of banana peel, a commonly produced fruit waste, for the removal of Cd(II) from environmental and industrial wastewater. The banana peel was characterized by FT-IR and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) coupled with energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis. The parameters pH, contact time, initial metal ion concentration and temperature were investigated and found to be rapid ( approximately 97% within 10 min). The Langmuir adsorption isotherm was used to describe partitioning behavior for the system at room temperature. The value of Q(L) was found to be (35.52 mg g(-1)) higher than the previously reported materials. The binding of metal ions was found to be pH-dependent with the optimal sorption occurring at pH 8. The retained species were eluted with 5 mL of 5 x 10(-3)M HNO(3) with the detection limit of 1.7 x 10(-3)mg L(-1). Kinetics of sorption followed the pseudo-first-order rate equation with the rate constant k, equal to 0.13+/-0.01 min(-1). Thermodynamic parameters such as Gibbs free energy at 303K (-7.41+/-0.13 kJ mol(-1)) and enthalpy (40.56+/-2.34 kJ mol(-1)) indicated the spontaneous and endothermic nature of the sorption process. The developed method was utilized for the removal of Cd(II) ions from environmental and industrial wastewater samples using flame atomic absorption spectrophotometer (FAAS).

The fat contents of 12 brands of biscuits were extracted and evaluated for free fatty acids (FFA) and their fatty acid composition (FAC). The oil content and FFA varied from 13.7 to 27.6% and 0.2 to 1.0%, respectively. The FAC was analyzed by gas chromatography–mass spectroscopy with particular emphasis on trans fatty acids (TFA). Total saturated, unsaturated, cis-monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids were determined in the range of 37.9–46.9, 53.0–62.0, 12.3–43.7 and 0.1–9.2%, respectively. The high amount of TFA was observed in all biscuit samples and varied from 9.3 to 34.9%. The quantity and quality of the lipid fraction of the biscuits indicated that the all analyzed biscuits are a rich source of fat, saturated fatty acids and trans fatty acids, consequently not suitable for the health of consumers. The high content of trans fatty acids and palmitic acid also indicated that blends of RBD palm oil and partially hydrogenated oil had been used in the biscuit manufacturing.

Antioxidant potential of four Desi chickpeas (Cicer arietinum L.) varieties indigenous to Pakistan, namely Balksar 2000, CM98, Dasht and Winhar 2000, was evaluated. All studied varieties exhibited appreciable total phenolic content (0.92–1.12 mg gallic acid equivalents/g), total flavonoid content (0.79–0.99 mg catechin equivalent [CAE]/g) and condensed tannin content (0.58–0.69 mg CAE/g). In addition, antioxidant activities were tested using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical (1.05–1.24 µmol trolox/g), 2,2′-azinobis-(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (37.24–45.32 µmol trolox/g), ferric-reducing antioxidant power (0.73–0.90 mmol Fe2+equivalents/100 g) and oxygen radical-absorbing capacity (8.58–11.4 µmol trolox/g). All varieties exhibited appreciable antioxidant potential and significant differences (P

In the present studies chemically and thermally treated watermelon peels (TWMP) have been utilized for the removal of methyl parathion (MP) pesticide from water. The effect of process variables such as pH of solution, shaking speed, shaking time, adsorbent dose, concentration of solution and temperature have been optimized. Maximum adsorption (99 ± 1%) was achieved for (0.38–3.80) × 10−4 mol dm−3 of MP solution, using 0.1 g of adsorbent in 20 ml of solution for 60 min agitation time at pH 6. BET and SEM analysis have been carried out for the characterization of TWMP. Adsorption data has been analyzed by Freundlich, Langmuir and Dubinin–Radushkevich (D–R) adsorption isotherms. Lagergren, Morris–Weber and Reichenberg equations have been used for kinetic studies of adsorption process. Thermodynamic parameters ΔH, ΔS and ΔG have been calculated. Positive value of ΔH and negative value of ΔG show endothermic and spontaneous nature of adsorption respectively. The developed adsorption method has been employed to surface water samples with percent removal 99% ± 1.

The removal of Cd(II) using polystyrene foam chemically modified with 2,2′-bipyridine has been investigated. The modified polystyrene foam has been characterized by FT-IR spectroscopy, thermogravimetry, elemental analysis and scanning electron microscopy. The solid was employed as a Cd(II) adsorption from aqueous solutions at room temperature. The effects of several variables (pH, shaking speed, agitation time, metal concentration and presence of other ions in the medium) have been studied using batch technique. Flame atomic absorption spectrometry was used to determine the Cd(II) ion concentration in the filtrate after the adsorption process. Maximum sorption ⩾90% was achieved at pH 7 after 30 min of shaking time. Sorbed metal ions have been desorbed with 5 ml of 2 M HNO 3 with the detection limit of 16.7 ng ml −1 . The Langmuir, Freundlich and D–R isotherm equation were used to describe partitioning behavior of the system at room temperature. Kinetic and thermodynamic behavior of modified polystyrene foam for Cd(II) ion removal was also studied. Br − , PO 4 3− , Pb 2+ , Ni 2+ and Cr(VI) suppress the sorption to some extent. The possible sorption mechanism of Cd(II) ions onto modified sorbent is also discussed. Method was utilized to remove Cd(II) ions from aqueous media.

The physico-chemical characteristics of the seeds and seed oils of four citrus species, Mitha (Citrus limetta), Grapefruit (Citrus paradisi), Mussami (Citrus sinensis), and Kinnow (Citrus reticulata) were investigated. The hexane-extracted oil content of citrus seeds ranged from 27.0 to 36.5%. The protein, fiber and ash contents were found to be 3.9–9.6%, 5.0–8.5%, and 4.6–5.6%, respectively. The extracted oils exhibited an iodine value of 99.9–110.0; refractive index (40 °C), 1.4639–1.4670; density (24 °C), 0.920–0.941 mg/mL; saponification value, 180.9–198.9; unsaponifiable matter, 0.3–0.5%; acid value (mg KOH/g of oil), 0.5–2.2 and color (1-in. cell) 1.4–3.0R + 15.0–30.0Y. The oils revealed a good oxidative stability as indicated by the determinations of specific extinctions at 232 and 270 nm (2.3–4.4 and 0.6–0.9, respectively), p-anisidine value (2.2–3.2) and peroxide value (1.6–2.4 mequiv/kg of oil). The citrus seed oils mainly consisted of linoleic acid (36.1–39.8%). Other prominent fatty acids were palmitic acid (25.8–32.2%), oleic acid (21.9–24.1%), linolenic acid (3.4–4.4%), and stearic acid (2.8–4.4%). The contents of tocopherols (α, γ, and δ) in the oil were 26.4–557.8, 27.7–84.1, and 9.1–20.0 mg/kg, respectively. The results of the present study demonstrated that the seeds of citrus species investigated are a potential source of valuable oil which might be utilized for edible and other industrial applications.

Antioxidant activity of bran extracts from five wheat varieties indigenous to Pakistan, i.e. Punjab-96, Bhakkar-2002, Uqab-2000, SH-2002, and Pasban-90, has been evaluated. All the bran extracts exhibited appreciable total phenolic content (2.12–3.37 mg gallic acid equivalent/g bran), total flavonoid content (epicatechin equivalent 262–304 μg/g bran), chelating activity (ethylenediaminetetracetate equivalent 597–716 μg/g bran), 2,2′-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging activity (51–79%), ABTS radical cation scavenging activity (Trolox equivalent 27–36 μmol/g), oxygen radical absorbance capacity (97–123 μmol/g), and total anthocyanin content (30–38 mg/kg bran). Tocopherol (22–26 ppm) and tocotrienol content (59–74 ppm) were determined by RP-HPLC. For confirmation of tocopherol content, polarographic study was conducted, which further authenticated the results (21–25 ppm). All the varieties exhibited appreciable antioxidant potential and significant differences were observed among the varieties in different systems of antioxidant activity evaluation.

Sorptive potential of selected agricultural waste materials i.e. rice (Oryza sativa) bran (RB), bagasse fly ash (BFA) of sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum), Moringa oleifera pods (MOP) and rice husk (RH) for the removal of methyl parathion pesticide (MP) from surface and ground waters has been investigated. Optimization of operating parameters of sorption process, i.e. sorbent dose, agitation time, pH, initial concentration of sorbate, and temperature have been studied. The sorption data fitted to Freundlich, Langmuir and Dubinin-Radushkevich (D-R) sorption isotherms. The maximum capacities of RB, BFA, MOP and RH for MP were calculated to be 3.6+/-0.8, 5.3+/-1.4, 5.2+/-1.5 and 4.7+/-1.0 mmolg(-1) by Freundlich, 0.39+/-0.009, 0.39+/-0.005, 0.36+/-0.004 and 0.35+/-0.008 mmolg(-1) by Langmuir and 0.9+/-0.08, 1.0+/-0.10, 1.0+/-0.10 and 0.9+/-0.07 mmolg(-1) by D-R isotherms respectively, employing 0.1g of each sorbent, at pH 6, 90 min agitation time and at 303 K. Application of first order Lagergren and Morris-Weber equations to the kinetic data yielded correlation coefficients, close to unity. Thermodynamic parameters of sorption process, i.e. DeltaH, DeltaS and DeltaG were computed and their negative values indicated the exothermic and spontaneous nature of sorption process. The pesticide may be stripped by sonication with methanol, making the regeneration and reutilization of sorbents promising. The sorbents investigated exhibited their potential applications in water decontamination, treatment of industrial and agricultural waste waters.

Plant bioresources are relied upon as natural, inexpensive, and sustainable remedies for the management of several chronic diseases worldwide. Plants have historically been consumed for medicinal purposes based on traditional belief, but this trend is currently changing. The growing interest in the medicinal properties of plant bioresources stems from concerns of side effects and other adverse effects caused by synthetic drugs. This interest has yielded a better understanding of the roles of plant bioactive compounds in health promotion and disease prevention, including the underlying mechanisms involved in such functional effects. The desire to maximize the potential of phytochemicals has led to the development of "rich fractions," in which extracts contain bioactive compounds in addition to elevated levels of the primary compound. Although a rich fraction effectively increases the bioactivity of the extract, the standardization and quality assurance process can be challenging. However, the supercritical fluid extraction (SFE) system is a promising green technology in this regard. Future clinical and pharmacological studies are needed to fully elucidate the implications of these preparations in the management of human diseases, thereby fostering a move toward evidence-based medicine.

Molecularly imprinted particles embedded composite cryogel discs specific for alpha-cypermethrin and beta-cypermethrin were prepared. Two different types of imprinted particles were embedded into cryogel to prepare composite cryogels specific for two isomers of cypermethrin simultaneously. Adsorption studies revealed that MIP is extremely selective for alpha-cypermethrin and beta-cypermethrin with outstanding adsorption capacity. A sensitive analytical method comprising MISPE coupled with GC-MS has been developed to quantify trace levels of alpha-cypermethrin and beta-cypermethrin in real water matrices. The polymer showed fast kinetics and follows a pseudo-second-order kinetic model very well (R-2 = 0.9999). It shows excellent capacity towards alpha-cypermethrin and beta-cypermethrin with a higher total number of binding sites (N-t - 96 mu mol g(-1) for alpha-cypermethrin and 95 mu mol g(-1) for beta-cypermethrin). The MIP showed selectivity over the homologues of alpha-cypermethrin and beta-cypermethrin with imprinting factor (IF) 11.2, 10.0, 1.04 and 1.20 for alpha-cypermethrin, beta-cypermethrin, deltamethrin and permethrin, respectively. The developed MISPE method followed by GC-MS enhanced the sensitivity and selectivity of the assay. This method was successfully applied to samples of lake water for the determination of alpha-cypermethrin and beta-cypermethrin simultaneously. Moreover, the synthesized MIP can be easily regenerated and repeatedly used without loss of efficiency.

Bisphenol A (BPA) imprinted poly(ethylene glycol dimethacrylate-N-methacryloyl-L-phenylalanine-vinyl imidazole) [poly(EGDMA-MAPA-VI)] film deposition on a SPR sensor with improved efficiency is described in this paper. The molecularly imprinted SPR sensor was characterized by FTIR-ATR, atomic force microscopy and ellipsometry. A water-compatible molecularly imprinted film has been developed for rapid, sensitive, and label-free detection of BPA in aqueous solutions prepared in Milli Q water, tap water and synthetic wastewater. The real-time response allows the detection of BPA with concentrations ranging from 0.08 to 10 mu g L-1 with LOD and LOQ values of 0.02 and 0.08 mu g L-1 in Milli Q water, 0.06 and 0.2 mu g L-1 in tap water and 0.08 and 0.3 mu g L-1 in synthetic wastewater, respectively. A significant increase in sensitivity was therefore expected due to the use of the imprinted poly(EGDMA-MAPA- VI) thin film. The method showed good recoveries and precision for the samples spiked with BPA. The results suggest that the imprinted SPR sensing method can be used as a promising alternative for the detection of BPA. The sensor data fitted well with the Langmuir adsorption model. The selectivity studies showed that the imprinted cavities formed in the polymeric nanofilm recognize BPA preferentially rather than 4-nitrophenol, hydroquinone, phenol and 8-hydroxy quinoline with a relative selectivity coefficient of 2.5, 2.6, 2.7 and 2.5, respectively. The prepared BPA imprinted SPR sensor enables high sensitivity, label-free detection, real-time monitoring, low volume sample consumption, quantitative evaluation, and determination of kinetic rate constants very well. In addition, the SPR based BPA sensor is easy to use and can be a cost effective solution due to the reusability of the prepared sensor. Furthermore, the storage stability will be higher than antibody-based detection methods.

Because of increased safety concerns about synthetic antioxidants, exploitation of cheaper and safer sources of antioxidants based on natural origin is the focus of research nowadays. Rhazya stricta is a medicinally important plant native to South Asia. Extraction of antioxidants was carried out in different solvent systems, i.e., water, 80% methanol, 70% ethanol, and diethyl ether. The methanolic extract exhibited the highest total phenolic content among the extracts; therefore for further studies the methanolic extract was employed. Antioxidant activity measurement in the linoleic acid system, metal chelating activity, reducing power, scavenging effect on 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl free radical, and superoxide anion radical scavenging activity were taken as the parameters for assessment of antioxidant potential of methanolic extracts. Results were compared with alpha-tocopherol and the synthetic antioxidant butylated hydroxyanisole. The antioxidant potential of methanolic extracts of R. stricta leaves was comparable with previously exploited potent antioxidants and is strongly concentration dependent.

A simple and reliable method has been developed using packing waste material (Styrofoam) containing dithizone as a chelating agent, to concentrate ultratrace amounts of cadmium ions in aqueous solutions. After characterization, the static sorption behavior of Cd(II) ions onto modified sorbent has been investigated. The sorption has been optimized with respect to the pH, shaking speed and contact time between the two phases. Maximum sorption has been achieved from solution of pH 6–8 after 8 min of shaking time. Sorbed metal ions are desorbed with 5 ml of 0.2 M EDTA solution with the preconcentration factor of 40. The kinetics and thermodynamics of sorption are studied in detail. The kinetics follows the first order rate equation with the rate constant k , equal to (3.46 ± 0.17 min −1 ). The variation of equilibrium constant, K c , with temperature between 15 and 40 °C yields values of Δ H = 80.94 ± 4.95 kJmol −1 , Δ S = 290 ± 15.3 JmolK −1 and Δ G is between −3.96 and −10.88 kJmol −1 . The sorption data studied in the concentration range of 8.88 × 10 −7 mol l −1 to 4.44 × 10 −4 mol l −1 Cd(II) ions follows Langmuir, Freundlich, and Dubinin-Radushkevich isotherms at all temperatures investigated. The monitoring of the influence of diverse ions on the sorption of Cd(II) ions has revealed that only Pb(II) ions suppress the sorption to some extent. The possible sorption mechanism of cadmium(II) ions onto impregnated sorbent is also discussed. The sorption procedure is utilized to preconcentrate cadmium ions prior to their determination in human blood and pipe tobacco samples by atomic absorption spectrometry using direct and standard addition methods.

Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) based methods for the determination of two anti-diabetic drugs, i.e., metformin HCl and glimepiride in tablet formulation are described. The methods involve the use of carefully prepared KBr discs with standards and samples of metformin HCl and glimepiride. FTIR spectra were acquired in the mid IR region. Extraction and pre concentration procedures were totally avoided. For quantification of metformin HCl, a prominent IR band appearing at fixed location height 3173 cm-1 with two point baseline between 3550-2850 cm-1 and for glimepiride IR band at fixed location height 1708 cm-1 with two point baseline between 1800-1600 cm-1 were selected for Beer's law calibrations. For metformin HCl, calibrations were developed using standards in the range between 0.300 mg to 3.100 mg whereas for glimepiride, calibrations were developed using standards in the range between 0.400 mg to 2.450 mg. Accuracy and reproducibility of proposed methods were evaluated and found to be satisfactory with excellent regression coefficients, acceptable recoveries and low standard deviations. The FTIR methods were successfully applied for the quantification of pharmaceutical tablets formulation containing metformin HCl and glimepiride as active substances and the results were found to be comparable with the quoted values. Métodos baseados em espectroscopia de infravermelho com transformada de Fourier (FTIR) para a determinação de duas drogas anti-diabetes, i.e., metformina HCl e glimepirida em formulações de comprimidos, são descritos. Os métodos envolvem o uso de discos de KBr, cautelosamente preparados, com padrões e amostras de metformina HCl e glimepirida. Espectros de FTIR foram adquiridos na região de infravermelho média. A extração e pré-concentração foram evitadas. Para a quantificação da metformina HCl, uma banda de IR proeminente, com localização fixa em 3173 cm-1 com dois pontos na linha base, entre 3550-2850 cm-1 e para a glimepirida, uma banda com localização fixa em 1708 cm-1, com dois pontos na linha base, entre 1800-1600 cm-1 foram selecionados para a calibração usando a lei de Beer. Para a metformina HCl, desenvolveu-se calibrações usando padrões na faixa entre 0,300 mg a 3,100 mg, enquanto que para a glimepirida, as calibrações foram desenvolvidas usando padrões na faixa entre 0,400 a 2,450 mg. Precisão e reprodutibilidade dos métodos propostos foram avaliadas e classificadas como satisfatórias com coeficientes de regressão excelentes, recuperação aceitável e baixos desvios do padrão. Os métodos de FTIR foram aplicados com sucesso na quantificação de formulações de fármacos contendo metformina HCl e glimepirida como substâncias ativas e os resultados comparáveis aos valores citados.

A simple and reliable method has been developed using polymeric material containing phthalic acid as a chelating agent to concentrate ultratrace amounts of lead ions in aqueous solutions. After characterization by CHN, IR, and thermal studies, the static and dynamic sorption behavior of Pb(II) ions onto new synthetic resin has been investigated. The sorption has been optimized with respect to pH, shaking speed, and contact time between the two phases. Maximum sorption is achieved from solution of pH 5–8 after 10 min agitation time. The lowest concentration for quantitative recovery is 5.8 ng cm−3 with a preconcentration factor of ∼850. The kinetics of sorption follows the first-order rate equation with the rate constant k = 0.58 ± 0.04 min −1 . The variation of the equilibrium constant K c with temperature between 10 and 50 °C yields values of ΔH, 52.4 ± 1.65 kJ mol −1 , ΔS, 186 ± 5.21 J mol −1 K −1 , and Δ G 303 K , − 4.15 ± 0.002 kJ mol −1 . The sorption data of Pb(II) ions in the concentration range from 2.41 × 10 −6 to 1.44 × 10 −4 mol L −1 follows the Langmuir, Freundlich, and Dubinin–Radushkevich (D–R) isotherms at all temperatures investigated. The sorption of Pb(II) ions onto synthesized resin in the presence of common anions and cations has also been measured. The possible sorption mechanism of Pb(II) ions onto phthalic acid modified XAD-16 is also discussed. The sorption procedure is utilized to preconcentrate Pb(II) ions prior to their determination in automobile exhaust particulates by atomic absorption spectrometry using direct and standard addition methods.