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Croton socotranus Balf.f. shrub is widely used traditionally in Asia as an anti-infective. The study was conducted for metabolite profiling, oral acute toxicity and antioxidant studies, antimicrobial activity and anticancer effect against human hepatoma (HepG2), breast cancer (MCF-7) and rhabdomyosarcoma (RD) cells. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis revealed the presence of 39 compounds, predominantly comprising fatty acids (57.76%), sesquiterpenes (24.56%) and triterpenes (9.54%). The n-hexane fraction exhibited promising antimicrobial activity and displayed a potent anti-tumour effect against HepG2, MCF-7 and RD cells with IC50 values of 3.4, 6.5 and 7.1 μg/mL, respectively. Histological examination revealed significant morphological changes consistent with the changes observed in the apoptotic mechanism of action. The molecular docking study provided insights into the rational binding modes of the identified compounds with phosphoinositide 3-kinase and poly(ADP-ribose)polymerase-1 enzymes. Our findings suggest the potential of C. socotranus as a valuable source of antimicrobial and anticancer agents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Salvia officinalis has been used for so many years as a traditional remedy and still used in pharmaceutical, cosmetics, and food industries, which made it an interesting subject for researcher of natural alternatives. Enhancing the value of Moroccan S. officinalis essential oil, which is grown at Sidi Taibi in the Rabat‐Salé‐Kénitra Region, was the goal of this project, through analyzing its chemical composition and assessing its insecticidal and antibacterial activities. This latter was estimated by comparison with the antibiotic ceftriaxone. The main components identified by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC‐MS) were camphor, eucalyptol (1,8‐cineole), α‐thujone, β‐thujone, ledol, and isoterpinolene with values of 19.72%, 15.64%, 15.05%, 9.74%, 7.27%, and 3.24%, respectively. A study of antibacterial activity revealed that while ceftriaxone seemed useless against the bacteria tested (all the bacteria proved resistant to the antibiotic), the essential oil of S. officinalis showed an inhibitory effect on the four bacteria tested, with MIC values ranging from 1/100 to 1/500 and a CMB value of 1/100. Using several dosages of pure essential oils (0, 1, 5, 10, and 20 μL), fumigant toxicity was ascertained. The mortality rate in individuals of Sitophilus oryzae and Rhyzopertha dominica reached a value of 100% when applying a dose of 10.00 μL/L of air to individuals of S. oryzae during 36 h of exposure and 24 h to individuals of R. dominica. The LC50 was determined at 2.51 and 6.02 μL/L for R. dominica and S. oryzae individuals successively, and the LC95 was determined at 5.45 and 12.61 μL/L of air over 12 h for R. dominica and S. oryzae individuals successively. Molecular docking analysis revealed ledol as a potent inhibitor of three key enzymes involved in the insecticidal effect of S. officinalis essential oil, mainly as an inhibitor of acetylcholinesterase (AChE), γ‐aminobutyric acid receptor (GABA), and ryanodine receptor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While ultra-high-resolution mass spectrometry has enabled the identification of the molecular composition of dissolved organic matter (DOM), elucidating its molecular structure remains a challenging endeavor. Here, two fulvic acids (FAs), one from river and the other from forest soil, were subjected to reduction using an optimized n-butylsilane (n-BS) reduction method. The reduction products were purified through a combination of liquid-liquid extraction and silica gel column chromatography, resulting in the separation into saturates, aromatics, and polar products. The polar products were analyzed by high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS), and the saturates and aromatics were analyzed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). HRMS results showed that the number of oxygen atoms and double-bond equivalent (DBE) values of FA decreased after reduction. GC-MS results revealed that a total of 270 hydrocarbon monomers were identified from the reduction products of a single sample, with the highest carbon number of cycloalkanes reaching C33. For the first time, steranes and hopanes were detected in the reduction products, potentially serving as evidence for the existence of carboxyl-rich alicyclic molecule (CRAM) precursors. Additionally, a significant number of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons were identified, and the potential sources of various compounds were preliminarily inferred based on their isomers. This study extends the knowledge of the possible backbone structure of the DOM and provides a new potential tool for investigating the origin and transformation mechanisms of DOM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The disposal of wastes into landfills, which has worsened the ecosystem, has made textile waste in the third world a major environmental problem. Textile waste is an environmental hazard as it biodegrades quickly and is improperly disposed of. This research is a demonstration of the study and application of textile waste pyrolysis as an innovative method for petrochemical generation for sustainable economic, technological and environmental advancement. The researchers converted textile waste (TEXW) into petrochemicals using pyrolysis. The obtained petrochemicals were fractionated after purification and characterisation using GC–MS while the physicochemical parameters of the fractionated liquid petrochemicals were analysed using standard methods. The results of the analysis showed that the liquid oil contains: carbamate (7.69%), silicic acid (4.73%), cyclotrisiloxane (4.09%), cyclohexane (7.47%), pro-2-ynyl-E-2-methylbut-2-enote (6.24%), cyclododecanol (3.95%), undec-10-ynoic acid (3.95%), 8,8-dimethylspirol-4,6-undecane-6,10-dione (3.47%), phenol (5.95%) and 1,2,5-oxadiazol-3-amine (3.85%). The results of the physico-chemical parameters of the liquid petrochemicals ranged: relative density (0.4250–0.8528 g/cm3), absolute viscosity (0.3436–0.8788 mPas), kinematic viscosity (0.4097–3.880 mm2/s), specific gravity at 15/15 °C (0.8528–0.9556 kg/m3) and flash point (15–20 °C). After blending, it was observed that a 20% v/v blend of the petrochemicals enhance the physicochemical properties of major petroleum products (PMS, kerosene, diesel). It could be concluded that the use of liquid petrochemicals for the enhancement of petroleum parameters would go a long way in alleviating basic cost associated with petroleum product production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are persistent environmental pollutants that have been used for various purposes. Although PFAS can pollute the environment in a variety of areas related to the use, storage, and disposal of their products, there are insufficient data on the extent of PFAS pollution outside industrialized countries with their manufacturing facilities. Most of the analyses depend on high-cost liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. In this study, we established a method to analyze ionic PFAS using gas chromatography–electron impact ionization–mass spectrometry with in-port arylation by diaryl iodonium. Extraction of PFAS from water samples was performed using solid phase extraction with reverse phase sorbent. Fourteen PFAS compounds could be detected from spiked water samples, and the detection limit ranged from 3.1 to 8.1 ng L−1. Using this method, we analyzed groundwater samples from Okinawa Island, Japan, and detected PFAS up to a total concentration of 1900 ng L−1. This method uses relatively inexpensive analytical equipment; hence, it can possibly enable surveys on PFAS contaminations in a wide range of regions and opportunities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A rapid analysis method for determination of hydrocarbon types in aviation turbine fuel was investigated in this study. A kind of reversible adsorption material packed as an unsaturated trap was used to separate saturated hydrocarbons and unsaturated hydrocarbons in the GC-MS system. No manual process or organic reagent was needed during the entire analysis process. The contents of 13 kinds of hydrocarbons, including paraffins, monocycloparaffins, dicycloparaffins, tricycloparaffins, monoolefins, cycloolefins, alkylbenzenes, CnH2n–8 aromatics, CnH2n–10 aromatics, naphthalenes, CnH2n–14 aromatics, CnH2n–16 aromatics, and CnH2n–18 aromatics were calculated by the characteristic mass fragments detected by MS with the modified matrices of ASTM D2425. The overall analysis time was less than 10 min. The precision of this test method has been conducted with 8 laboratories attended and 16 samples analyzed. The performance of this new method was demonstrated by comparing the results tested by ASTM D1319, ASTM D2425, and ASTM D6379. This rapid analysis method can provide hydrocarbon compositions of aviation turbine fuels or other liquid hydrocarbon samples within the same distillation range. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During a series of sampling conducted in Nobaria, El-Beheira, Egypt in 2022 and 2023, defoliation disorders were identified in tomato fields. Three soil samples were collected and subjected to fungal isolation and identification. Molecular analysis revealed the presence of three fungal species, namely Fusarium verticillioides, Fusarium proliferatum and Alternaria tenuissima, with their Genbank accession numbers being OP889680, OP889682 and OP886855, respectively. The efficacy of an effective microorganism (EM) product as an antifungal agent was screened and its bioactive substances were analyzed. The bioactive substances in the EM product included antioxidant compounds, such as phenolics (58 mg/mL) and tannins (17 mg/mL), which contributed to total antioxidant activity of 73% as measured by FRP, PMA and DPPH assays. The EM product was tested for its antifungal activity against the three isolated fungal pathogens. The sensitivity of A. tenuissima, F. verticillioides and F. proliferatum was assessed by measuring the colony growth when exposed to the EM product. It showed concentration-dependent growth inhibition, completely stopping growth at 7% concentration, with inhibition percentages of 93, 100 and 100% for each pathogen. Gene expression in treated fungi was studied, revealing down-regulation of the chitinase gene in F. verticillioides, F. proliferatum and A. tenuissima, compared to controls. Up-regulation of PR4 and PR5 genes was noted in F. verticillioides, while a significant up-regulation of peroxidase and PPO genes was observed in A. tenuissima. This suggests the EM product holds promise as a fungicide alternative. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An exploratory study was carried out to synthesize biodiesel from the wasted pomegranate seeds. It has been first and foremost explored and revealed as a novel feedstock for the development of biodiesel as an alternative fuel. The oil was extracted from dried pomegranate seeds using Soxhlet oil extraction techniques with the Taguchi L9 technique. The maximum 24% oil was extracted with a solvent-to-seed ratio of 2.5:1, extraction temperature of 60 °C, extraction time of 180 min., and evaporation temperature of 40 °C. The transesterification was carried out with 9-runs of Taguchi's techniques. The optimum process parameters such as molar ratio 6:1, catalyst concentration 1 mass%, reaction temperature 60 °C, and reaction time 60-min have recovered 94% FAME. The characterization of blends is to analyze their sustainability as an elective fuel with IS 1448 standard chromatography analysis, element analysis, and infrared spectroscopy. The thermogravimetric investigation uses TG–DSC, and TG–DTG techniques to study the thermal behavior, and combustion characteristics of blends. IS 1448 standard and elemental analysis is carried out to study the physicochemical properties and carbon, oxygen, hydrogen, nitrogen, and sulfur percentage. The POM biodiesel fulfills the requirement of IS 1448 standard. The B20 blend delivered a higher value of ignition index (1.16 × 10−4 to 2.37 × 10−4 min-1 °C-2) and comprehensive performance index (1.78 × 10−6 to 5.45 × 10−6 min-1 °C−3) which provides better ignition performance during combustion. The most effective method for turning agricultural waste into energy is this one. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The goal of the present investigation was to demonstrate the antibacterial activity of different solvent extracts (methanol, ethanol, cold aqueous and hot aqueous) of Crassocephalum crepidioides against ATCC bacterial cultures of Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and its antioxidant potential. Furthermore, the chemical constituents present in the extract was perused by Gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy (GC-MS), along with in vitro cytotoxicity assessment. All the extracts were shown to be sensitive against S. aureus, MRSA and P. aeruginosa except for the ethanolic extract which was resistant to P. aeruginosa. Of all the extracts, hot aqueous extract found to be the most effective. It was found that Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) value of hot aqueous extract against S. aureus, MRSA and P. aeruginosa were 5 mg/mL, 5 mg/mL and 40 mg/mL, respectively. DPPH results showed that C. crepidioides leaf extract has potent antioxidant activity with IC50 value of 57.9 µg/mL. 22 compounds were detected in hot aqueous extract through Gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy. The results of the cytotoxicity evaluation displayed that the IC50 value of the hot aqueous extract of C. crepidioides on Vero cell lines was 292 µg/mL. This study concludes that C. crepidioides leaf extract is non-toxic, has various bioactive components and strong antibacterial and antioxidant activities, thus making it a promising therapeutic agent for various biomedical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cuban grape and tropical fruit wines are well recognised by consumers at international events, but research on them is still scarce and necessary to improve wine quality. The work aimed to identify the aroma profile of six Cuban wines produced from grapes (Aramon and Parra grapes), papaya (Carica papaya L.), cherry (Prunus cerasus L.), elderberry (Sambucus nigra L.), cactus fruits (Pereskia aculeate L.) and star fruit (Averrhoa carambola L.). The free and glycosidically bound volatile compositions were studied by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). It was discovered, for the first time in Cuban wines produced from tropical grape varieties and fruits, the presence of alcohols, esters, acids, aldehydes, lactones, ketones, terpenes, and a variety of volatile phenols. The results obtained contribute to a better understanding of the quality of Cuban wines of locally high commercial demand. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For their pungency and tanginess, ginger rhizomes (Zingiber officinale) are often used in cooking. Ginger has long been used in traditional medicine and home remedies to treat pain and inflammation. This research tests Z. officinale (EOZ) essential oils' chemical composition, insecticidal, and antioxidant properties in vitro and in silico. EOZ yielded 0.69% of root mass with 23 chemicals. The main chemicals in EOZ were α-zingiberene (23.850%), Geranial (14.160%), and (E,E)-α-farnesene (9.980%). EOZ demonstrated noteworthy antioxidant activity in all tests, with an IC50 of 9.53 ± 0.41 mg/mL in the DPPH test and an EC50 of 87.46 ± 3.19 mg/mL in the FRAP system. The results indicate that EOZ has strong efficacy against C. maculatus, even at low concentrations (1.00 μL/100 g). Note that EOZ killed 20 ± 0% and 13.33 ± 4.44% of adult C. maculatus in inhalation and contact tests, respectively. High concentration (20.00 μL/100 g) resulted in 100% adult mortality in inhalation tests and 96.67 ± 4.44% mortality in contact testing. We then used molecular docking to identify EO major component binding modes by targeting insecticidal and antioxidant protein structures 1R20 and 1R4U. This research helps create insecticides and antioxidants from common ginger essential oil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this ongoing research is to investigate and assess the aqueous extracts, vegetable oil, and residual plant components derived from O. dillenii by use of HPLC, and GC-MS. Subsequent investigations employed colorimetric techniques to identify reducing and soluble sugars. We developed and validated an energy-dispersive X-ray fluorescence (EDXRF) method for determining the concentrations of essential chemical elements (O, C, Ca, Mg, K, S, P) in seeds, juice, and peel, as well as their residues. HPLC analysis yielded results indicating that extracts from O. dillenii seeds, juice, and peel from distinct regions (Oujda, Nador, and Essaouira) contained elevated concentrations of metabolites. Specifically, peel and juice extracts exhibited the highest levels of organic acids and betanin compared to O. dillenii seeds. Conversely, seed oils displayed a noteworthy tocopherol content, predominantly δ-tocopherol. Similarly, an examination of organic acid composition in juice, peel, and seeds from three different regions revealed their elevated levels. Citric acid and oxalic acid emerged as predominant components in the juice. Overall, Opuntia dillenii's physicochemical and phytochemical characterization improves in understanding its potential as a bioactive chemical promoter, which could lead to the creation of new medicinal medicines or functional food ingredients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study elucidated the optimization conditions, GC-MS analysis conditions, total antioxidant activity, and components closely related to antioxidant activity for supercritical extraction of active ingredients in Huoluo Xiaoling Dan (HLXLD). The yield, octyl acetate content, and total antioxidant activity of HLXLD under different conditions were obtained through orthogonal experiments, and the optimal supercritical extraction conditions were determined to be 45°C, 25 MPa, and 4 h. The supercritical extract was subjected to GC-MS analysis and matched with the WILEY and NIST databases, resulting in the qualitative identification of 37 chemical components with a matching degree above 60. The similarity evaluation system of traditional Chinese medicine fingerprint was used to evaluate all orthogonal experimental samples, with a similarity ranging from 0.522 to 0.989. Thirteen common characteristic peaks were selected, and the quantification of these peaks was performed using peak area normalization method. The combination of the content of common characteristic peaks in different samples and their total antioxidant activity was analyzed using multivariate statistical methods such as principal component analysis and multiple regression equation. It was found that five components, F3, F2, F5, F7 and F12, among the common characteristic peaks were closely related to antioxidant activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study involved the exploration of hydro-distilled essential oil (EsO) from the aerial parts of Cordia dichotoma fruits, stems, seeds and leaves via gas chromatography‒mass spectrometry. Approximately 33 volatile components were detected throughout the study. Almost 27 and 23 compounds (comprising 64.83% and 31.55%, respectively, of the total components) were detected in the fruits and stems, whereas 25 compounds (57.12% of the total components) were detected in the seeds, and 25 compounds (52.48% of the total components) were found in the leaves. The main components of the fruit oil were Nonanal (5.77%), Oleic acid (4.30%), β-Damascenone (4.12%), 3, 4-Dehydro-β-ionone (4.06%), Methyl jasmonate (3.32%), Sabinene (3.31%), Phytol (3.22%) and Vitispirane (3.11%). From stem oil, the major components were Nonanal (6.52%), Nonadecane (3.22%) and 2, 3-Octanedione (2.16%). Whereas, the major components of the seed oils were Nonanal (12.14%), Oleic acid (5.13%), Dihydroactindiolide (3.35%), 2-Methoxy-4-vinylphenol (3.18%), Dodecanoic acid (3.16%) and Methyl jasmonate (3.11%). Similarly, the major components of the leaf oils were 2, 4-di-t-Butylphenol (10.25%), 3-Methylnonane (4.73%), 2-Undecanol (4.64%), 3, 4-Dehydro-β-ionone (3.52%) and Nonanal (3.16%). These EsO were used for antibacterial activity against two bacteria i.e. E. coli (G-ve) and the S. aureus (G+ve) by disc diffusion method to determine the MIC (minimum inhibitory concentration) and MBC (maximum bactericidal concentration). However, among the four parts of C. dichotoma, fruit and seed EsO were highly effective against E. coli (MIC and MBC were 125 μg/mL, 1000 μg/mL respectively) compared to S. aureus (MICs of 250 and 500 μg/mL with an MBC of 1000 μg/mL) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gaultheria trichophylla Royle is a traditional treatment for inflammatory conditions including arthritis. The objective was to evaluate the anti-arthritic activity of the extracts and salicylate-rich fractions through adjuvant-induced arthritis, histopathological analysis, radiological imaging, hematological, biochemical parameters along with using bioinformatic tools. In vivo anti-arthritic efficacy of the extract and SRF (at 100, 200, 300, and 150 mg/kg doses) was assessed using healthy albino rats. Molecular docking of identified compounds along with network pharmacology analysis helped to determine the route of action of drug. Both the extract and SRF showed dose-dependent anti-arthritic activity by decreasing the joint diameter, increase in pain threshold and body weight compared with negative control group. Along with SRF (150 mg/kg), EEGT (300 and 200 mg/kg) shows significant (P < 0.01) anti-arthritic activity by lowering levels of WBC, platelets, serum C-reactive protein (CRP), and rheumatoid factor (RF) and raising levels of RBC and Hb. The modified biochemical measures (AST, ALT, ALP, and total protein level) further supported the anti-arthritic action. Histopathology and radiology study showed that EEGT (300 and 200 mg/kg), SRF (150 mg/kg) and diclofenac (10 mg/kg) inhibited joint destruction. GCMS analysis showed the presence of methyl salicylate, sitosterol, calcifediol, and ergosta-5,22-dien-3-ol, acetate as important bioactive constituents. Moreover, as the significant node in the pharmacology network and docking against TNF-α, a classical therapeutic target in RA showed potential of G. trichophylla in treatment of RA. The results showed that G. trichophylla have effectively reduced the inflammation of the joints. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Colorectal cancer is the second deadliest cancer worldwide. The side effects and resistance of existing chemotherapy drugs are the background for various studies looking for potential plant extracts as new anticancer agents. This study aims to determine the cytotoxic activity of simpor leaf extract from Belitung and its effect on apoptosis of WiDr colorectal cancer cells. The compound content in simpor leaf extract was analyzed using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS). The cytotoxic activity of simpor leaf extract at different concentrations (25, 50 and 100 ppm) was determined by the MTT test and apoptosis induction by Annexin V/PI flow cytometry analysis. Based on the GC-MS chromatogram results, 13 different compounds were detected. Analysis of the relationship between extract concentration and the percentage of WiDr cell inhibition showed that an extract concentration of 100 ppm was the concentration with the highest percentage of inhibition (20.12 % ± 4.99) compared to concentrations of 50 ppm (13.95 % ± 2.32) and 25 ppm (15.90 % ± 1.38) with an inhibitory concentration value (IC50) of simpor leaf extract of 10.45 ppm. Induction of WiDr cell apoptosis by the extract was influenced by the concentration of simpor leaf extract, which was increase in the percentage of apoptotic cells from 16 % at a concentration of 25 ppm to 70.5 % at a concentration of 100 ppm. The results of this study show that simpor leaf extract from Belitung is able to induce apoptosis in WiDr colorectal cancer cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: An increasing incidence of metabolic disorders emphasizes the need to explore natural treatments. Spirulina, a microalga with a rich nutrient profile, offers a promising solution for obesity, diabetes, and inflammation. This study provides a meticulous analysis of spirulina powder, evaluating its physicochemical attributes and technofunctional properties through the use of advanced analytical techniques. RESULTS: Spirulina powder demonstrated strong flowability, substantial water and oil absorption capacity, and moderate foaming characteristics. The ethanolic extract of spirulina was found to be a repository of phenolic (6.93 mg GAE/g) and flavonoid (7.17 mg QE/g) compounds, manifesting considerable antioxidant activity with a 58.49 g kg−1 inhibition of 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radicals. The extract also exhibited pronounced inhibitory effects on lipase and amylase enzymes, with inhibition percentages of 72.05 g kg−1 and 70.28 g kg−1, respectively, and displayed a glucose retention capacity of 1.28 mg dL−1 (68.52 g kg−1) in a dialysis membrane assay. These results suggest its efficacy in modulating obesity and glycemic control. The powder also showed a potent anti‐inflammatory response by mitigating protein denaturation. CONCLUSION: Spirulina powder is a potent natural agent with multiple health benefits, meriting its incorporation into functional foods. It could be suitable for application in the food industry, offering a natural strategy to combat metabolic diseases. This research adds to the scientific literature on spirulina, paving the way for future research into its utilization. © 2024 The Author(s). Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Birch tar was the first substance made by humans that is otherwise not available in nature. The oldest artefacts date to ~ 200 thousand years ago in Europe but birch tar becomes more frequent around 45 thousand years ago and even more so from the Mesolithic onwards. Their study has important implication for our understanding of evolutionary processes such as cognitive capacity and cultural evolution. What remains unknown is the overall molecular composition of birch tar. Several approaches based on gas chromatography-mass spectrometry have shown the potential of studying solvent soluble molecules to understand the botanical origin of different tars, their manufacturing techniques and their post-depositional alteration mechanisms. However, birch tar's soluble fraction cannot shed light on its mechanical properties. In this study, we conduct gas chromatography-mass spectrometry and spectroscopic analysis of seven bulk birch tar samples, including infrared band assignment and structural refinement of organic molecules in the insoluble fraction. We find that the overall proportion that cannot be analysed by gas chromatography accounts for 85–90% in birch tar. This phase consists of polymerised molecules with a structure analogous to asphaltenes but containing a significantly greater amount of oxygen-related functional groups. Our findings have implications for understanding the viscosity, adhesiveness and stiffness of birch tar and they call for caution in applying analytical techniques that only target soluble molecules in birch tar. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Cross River estuary is a coastal wetland in the south-eastern part of the Niger Delta region of Nigeria with its hydrological cycle largely dependent on precipitation. The purpose of this study was to determine the greenhouse gas (GHG) concentrations in water from selected wetlands in the Cross River estuary. Water samples were collected from the Ikang, Anantigha and Adiabo wetlands and the major GHGs were analysed using a gas chromatography coupled to a mass spectrometer. The mean concentration levels of carbon dioxide (CO2), nitrous oxide (N2O) and sulphur oxide (SO2) were measured in the water samples for both seasons. There was a significant difference in concentrations of all the greenhouse gases in the water samples for both seasons. The exceptions were: SO2 in Adiabo, CO2 in Anantigha and N2O in Ikang, which showed insignificant differences for both seasons. The water CO2 concentrations from the Adiabo wetland recorded the largest contribution of greenhouse gas levels, ranging between 6.88 ± 2.22 ppm and 11.02 ± 2.52 ppm. These levels were in the range of those reported in the Congo basin. The variation in concentrations could be due to location, hydrological characteristics, nutrient load injection or the nitrification and denitrification processes of wetlands. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study focused on the chemical composition and biological activities of the essential oil derived from Grewia bulot, a plant species known for its medicinal properties. The analysis of Grewia bulot essential oil revealed the presence of 78 constituents. The major compounds were α-cadinol (13.5%), 1,8-cineole (12.7%), 1,10-di-epi-cubenol (9.8%), epi-α-cadinol (6.7%), (E,E)-α-farnesene (5.9%), (E)-citral (4.0%), selin-11-en-4-α-ol (4.0%), citronellol isobutanoate (3.9%), and geranic acid (3.7%). The essential oil exhibited promising antioxidant potential with an IC50 value of 452.65 ± 28.40 µg/mL in DPPH model. This oil did not show NO production inhibitory effect in RAW 264.7 cells. In addition, the essential oil exhibited significant cytotoxicity against KB, Hep-G2, MCF-7, and SK-LU-1 cancer cell lines, with IC50 values ranging from 44.04 ± 1.47 to 74.20 ± 3.71 μg/mL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Iphiona grantioides (Boiss) Anderb. is a medicinal plant featuring several traditional uses. Nevertheless, this plant has not been widely investigated by modern medicinal chemistry yet, as also the properties of its extracts. In this study, we report the extraction of the essential oil by hydrodistillation from the leaves of I. grantioides. This was characterised by GC-MS analysis and ten chemical constituents were identified. Our findings demonstrate that the essential oil is effective in inhibiting the growth of bacterial strains, and of Klebsiela pneumonia and Staphylococcus aureus in particular. Additionally, its antioxidant properties were evaluated, and it showed radical scavenging activity in vitro. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The oral cavity is home to a large and diversified microbial flora, which plays an important role in the genesis of multiple diseases, including tooth decay. Indeed, tooth decay is the most common ailment in the world, with almost everyone having experienced it at least once in their lifetime. Examining plants used in traditional medicine is one of the research approaches used to discover novel, potent antibacterial chemicals with a broad spectrum of action, as present antibacterials have significant drawbacks. This study aims to examine the chemical composition of Algerian clove Syzygium aromaticum using GC-MS and to evaluate the antibacterial activity of the methanol extract against bacteria isolated from dental caries caused by Streptococcus spp. and Lactobacillus spp. The results show a strong extraction yield of 29.7%, with high amounts of polyphenols and flavonoids calculated at 178.82 mg GAEQ/g and 24.13 mg QEQ/g. The principal chemical elements of S. aromaticum peel methanol extract were identified as eugenol (61.23%) and eugenol acetate (26.45%) based on mass spectrum data and retention times. The methanol extract has a significant antibacterial effect against tested strains, with MICs ranging from 111.37 to 445.5 mg/mL. Higher concentrations of polyphenols resulted in a significant increase in inhibition zone diameter against S1 (r² = 0.94, p < 0.001), L3 (r² = 0.94, p < 0.001), L5 (r² = 0.93, p < 0.001), and L9 (r² = 0.96, p < 0.001). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Atlantic coastline of El-Jadida, Morocco, is renowned for its plentiful algae, especially brown seaweed, which is rich in active compounds known for their antifungal properties. This valuable resource offers an exciting opportunity to tackle the numerous challenges posed by invasive fungal infections, allergies, mycotoxin-related food poisoning, and drug-resistant strains. Underscoring the urgent need to explore alternative, sustainable, and environmentally friendly antifungal agents derived from algae. This study aimed to evaluate the antifungal activity of total alkaloids and phenolic-rich fractions derived from seven species of Pheophyceae: Sargassum muticum, Sargassum vulgare, Bifurcaria bifurcata, Cystoseira tamariscifolia, Cystoseira humilis, Laminaria ochroleuca, and Fucus spiralis against four fungi: airborne toxigenic isolates of Aspergillus westerdijkiae and Chaetomium globosum as well as nosocomial opportunistic isolates of Aspergillus nidulans and Scopulariopsis brevicaulis. The study also aimed to identify the most effective alga and its specific active compounds through LC–MS and GC–MS analysis. The invasive Sargassum muticum was chosen as the most potent alga in inhibiting the growth of mycelium. For the first time, the alkaloids palmatine and jatrorrhizine, along with caulerpin, have been identified. The chloroform fraction revealed the prevalence of phenolic compounds including, phenolic acids, flavonoids, and phlorotannins. The lowest minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs), with a maximum fungal load of 108 colony-forming unit (CFU), recorded ranged from 3.12 to 6.25 μg/mL by the phenolic-rich fraction against airborne toxigenic isolates, and from 100 to 200 μg/mL against nosocomial opportunistic isolates by the total alkaloids. In comparison, the positive control, ketoconazole, showed higher MICs and resistance against A. nidulans. The valorization of Sargassum muticum is proposed as a green strategy to preserve the ecological balance, combat antifungal resistance, and address public health challenges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cresol isomers are compounds known as environmental chemical contaminants, and they are widely distributed in smoked foods. Thus, the objective of this study was to develop a method based on solid–liquid extraction with low-temperature purification (SLE-LTP) and analysis by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC–MS) for quantification of three cresol isomers (o-cresol, m-cresol, and p-cresol) in smoked bacon samples. The SLE-LTP was optimized, validated, and compared with the QuEChERS method. The proposed method was selective after derivatization with BSTFA [N,O-Bis(trimethylsilyl)trifluoroacetamide], which achieved a limit of quantification of 53.3 μg kg−1, recoveries between 90 and 116%, relative standard deviation lower than 13%, negative matrix effects, and linearity in the range of 53.3 to 1332.5 μg kg−1 with coefficient of determination higher than 0.99 in matrix-matched calibration. The method was applied to quantify cresol isomers in five commercial samples of smoked bacon and the results showed concentrations between 62.1 and 1204 μg kg−1. Finally, the developed methodology is suitable for monitoring cresol isomers, which are present in high levels in smoked bacon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mango aroma and flavor are attributed to hundreds of volatile metabolites and their combinations, concentrations, and proportions, which give the fruits unique aromatic characteristics. This study evaluated the sensory characteristics and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in five dried mango varieties. The five dried mango types differed in VOC content and sensory characteristics. Dried Malika and Van Dyke mangoes were the most accepted by consumers, and CPAC 165/93 was the least accepted. The attributes "too weak" aroma and flavor, "not sweet enough," and "hard texture" negatively influenced the product's acceptance scores. A total of 149 volatile compounds were identified, with the highest levels belonging to the class of terpenes, aldehydes, and esters, and the following compounds were found at higher percentages: lactones in the Malika mango; acids, monoterpenes, and sesquiterpenes in the Van Dyke variety; esters and ketones in CPAC 165/93; alcohols in Amrapali; and aldehydes in Palmer. Principal component analysis (PCA) showed that the presence of compounds of the lactone and terpene classes positively influence the acceptance of the aroma and flavor of the dried mangoes, and the compounds of the ester and ketone classes contribute to the lower sensory acceptance of these attributes. Dried mangoes produced with the Malika and Van Dyke varieties were the most accepted by consumers; therefore, these varieties can be recommended for the food dehydration industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We developed a rapid and user-friendly method to detect bioactive terpenes in different Cannabis flower samples based on gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC–MS). We validated the method in terms of linearity, repeatability, detection and quantitation limits and recovery. We quantitatively determine the amounts of six terpenes in seven Cannabis samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Acta Prataculturae Sinica is the property of Acta Prataculturae Sinica Editorial Office and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

A simple method based on solid–liquid extraction with a low-temperature partition (SLE/LTP) and analysis by gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (GC–MS) was optimized and validated for determining residues of the pesticides triadimenol, flutriafol, λ-cyhalothrin, difenoconazole, and azoxystrobin in oat flour. A factorial design was employed to optimize the technique and establish the best conditions for the simultaneous extraction of the analytes. Acetonitrile-sample extraction and its 4 h freezing made it possible to recover the pesticides and clean the extracts in a single step. The limit of detection ranged from 1.72 to 12.9 μg kg−1, and the limit of quantification from 5.73 to 43.0 μg kg−1. These values are below the maximum residue limit (MRL) permitted by National legislation. The recovery percentage fell between 91.7 and 108%, with coefficients of variation under 12%. The validated method was applied to oat flour samples randomly acquired from the local market of Viçosa (Minas Gerais, Brazil) and no residues were detected. The SLE/LTP–GC–MS method proved simple, efficient, selective, and sensitive for determining pesticide residues from oat flour samples, offering a more simplified approach compared to techniques described in the literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Radish, considered a globally important crop, faces a severe threat from Alternaria blight. This pervasive and highly damaging disease causes black spots and blight on leaves in field conditions, resulting in reduced yield and seed quality. The study aimed to evaluate the antifungal potential of different wild botanicals against the Alternaria leaf blight pathogen through in vitro and in vivo studies and to analyze the phytochemicals using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC–MS). Among the fifty botanicals screened at 10% concentration against the pathogen, the aqueous extracts of Hemidesmus indicus, Lippia alba, Chromolaena odorata, and Solanum violaceum displayed the highest mycelial inhibition. Further in vitro evaluations of these four botanicals at different concentrations (2.5%, 5.0%, 7.5%, 10.0%, and 12.5%) revealed that at a 12.5% plant extract concentration H. indicus and L. alba exhibited the most effective inhibition of 82.96% and 76.60%, respectively, followed by C. odorata (71.93%) and S. violaceum (63.53%). Based on the promising in vitro results, these botanicals were assessed in pot experiments at 12.5% concentration. Among the four botanicals, the highest percentage of disease reduction was observed with H. indicus and L. alba, with 69.79% and 60.44%, respectively. Overall, the botanicals effectively reduced disease severity while increasing radish yield. GC–MS analysis of the phytochemicals revealed that the botanicals are composed of various bioactive compounds such as phenolics, flavonoids, saponins, and volatile compounds, which are known to exhibit antimicrobial activities. This study emphasizes the potential of botanicals as a natural alternative for managing fungal diseases, offering resilient and sustainable approaches to safeguard crops from destructive fungal infections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explores the application of chemotaxonomic methods to trace the geographic origin of wood used in paper production. Utilizing thermal desorption gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (TD-GC-MS) and principal component analysis (PCA), distinct chemical profiles were identified in both hydrophobic and hydrophilic extracts. Residual wood extractives, that are capable of origin differentiation, were found in acetone extracts of the CITES-protected genus ramin (Gonystylus Teijsm. et Binn. spp.), petroleum ether extracts of red meranti (Rubroshorea (Meijer) P.S.Ashton et J.Heck. spp.) and n-hexane extracts of teak (Tectona grandis L.f.) pulp. The PCA results demonstrate the potential of these chemical fingerprints to serve as reliable indicators of wood provenance, which could potentially be crucial for the practical execution of the European Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) and the US Lacey Act in the paper industry. Despite the promising findings for ramin and teak, the effectiveness of the method to distinguish the origin of red meranti pulps was limited in some cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Intersectional hybrids of Paeonia (Paeonia Itoh hybrids) have rich colours and strong fragrance, combining the advantages of sect. Moutan and sect. Paeonia, and have great economic value and development potential. However, there have been few studies on the floral fragrance components of intersectional hybrids of Paeonia. In this study, the types and contents of volatile components of 20 intersectional hybrids of Paeonia were conducted. A total of 53 floral volatiles were identified though gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) analysis, with linalool, nonanal and phenylethyl alcohol as the main floral components. Based on the compound contents and odour activity values (OAVs) analysis, the 20 cultivars were classified into four aroma types: a floral scent, a fresh floral scent, a floral with spicy scent and a fruity scent. ‘Magical Mystery Tour’ had the highest volatile compound contents and OAVs, and had potential for exploitation. This study provided a theoretical reference for the selection of parents for flower fragrance breeding of Paeonia Itoh hybrids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Asphalt releases a large number of irritating fumes during construction and use, which is a serious emission pollution that not only damages the atmospheric environment but also produces highly toxic and carcinogenic volatile organic compounds (VOCs), posing a health risk to human beings. In this study, a compound-doped modified bitumen for reducing VOC emission was prepared by using zeolite as the main adsorbent material, modified by hydrochloric acid, and LDHs as a synergistic adsorbent material. By determining its basic and rheological properties, the results show that the compounding of LDHs and HCL-modified zeolite added to asphalt can improve the high-temperature performance of asphalt binder, but at the same time, the anti-fatigue property will be decreased. By GC-MS experimental analysis, a total of 72.2% fewer volatile organic compounds (VOCs) were released by the compound modified asphalt compound than by virgin asphalt, which resulted in a significant reduction in asphalt fume emissions. It shows that the asphalt VOC molecules are well adsorbed by the porous adsorption of LDHs and zeolite materials, and it is also found experimentally that they inhibit the emission of VOCs through the blocking and adsorption effects. This study provides a scientific basis for inhibiting the emission of VOCs during asphalt pavement construction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Marjoram (Origanum majorana L.), also known as "sweet marjoram" or "sweet oregano" is a Mediterranean herbaceous perennial herb cultivated in Egypt and widely consumed as an herbal supplement for treatment of several ailments. The main goal of this study was to assess volatiles' variation in marjoram samples collected from two different widely consumed commercial products using two different extraction techniques viz. head space solid phase microextraction (HS-SPME) and petroleum ether using gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis and multivariate data analysis. A total of 20 major aroma compounds were identified in samples extracted with HS-SPME found enriched in monoterpene hydrocarbons and oxygenated compounds. The major volatiles included β-phellandrene (20.1 and 14.2%), γ-terpinene (13.4 and 11.7%), 2-bornene (12.3 and 11.5%), p-cymene (9.8 and 4.6%) terpenen-4-ol (16.4 and 7.5%), sabinene hydrate (16.02 and 8.8%) and terpineol (4.2 and 3.2%) in MR and MI, respectively. Compared with HS-SPME, 51 aroma compounds were identified in marjoram samples extracted with petroleum ether, found more enriched in aliphatic hydrocarbons (42.8 and 73.8%) in MR and MI, respectively. While a higher identification score was observed in the case of solvent extraction, SPME appeared to be more selective in the recovery of oxygenated terpenes to account more for marjoram aroma. Multivariate data analysis using principal component analysis (PCA) revealed distinct discrimination between volatile composition of both marjoram samples. The total phenolic and flavonoid contents in marjoram samples were at (111.9, 109.1 µg GA/mg) and (18.3, 19.5 µg rutin eq/mg) in MR and MI, respectively. Stronger antioxidant effects were observed in MR and MI samples with IC50 at 45.5 and 56.8 µg/mL respectively compared to IC50 6.57 µg/mL for Trolox as assayed using DPPH assay. Moderate anti-bacterial effect was observed in MR and MI samples and expressed as a zone of inhibition mostly against Bacillus subtilis (16.03 and 15.9 mm), B. cereus (12.9 and 13.7 mm), Enterococcus faecalis (14.03 and 13.97 mm), and Enterobacter cloacae (11.6 and 11.6 mm) respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Foeniculum vulgare Miller is a highly valued aromatic and nutritious plant. The unique compositions of its essential oil make it more valuable in the flavor, fragrance, and medicinal industries. However, the potential of superheated steam distillation for obtaining essential oils from its seeds has not been explored in detail. This study assessed the composition, yield, antimicrobial, and antioxidant activities of essential oils distilled from F. vulgare seeds using traditional hydrodistillation, steam distillation, and superheated steam distillation. Superheated steam distillation resulted in the maximum quantity of essential oil (5.24%) compared to steam (3.47%) and hydrodistillation (2.47%). Trans‐anethole, fenchone, estragole, and limonene were the main identified by GC–MS analysis in the essential oils, and these compounds were abundant in the essential oil produced by superheated steam distillation. Essential oil distilled by superheated steam distillation presented the highest antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Pastrulla multocida, Bacillus subtilis, and Escherichia coli. The highest antifungal activity against Aspergillus niger, Fusarium solani, Aspergillus flavus, and Alternaria alternate was also demonstrated by the same essential oil. These findings demonstrated the potential of superheated steam distillation as a highly effective and efficient technique for distilling high‐quality essential oils from Foeniculum vulgare Miller seeds. It is suitable for various applications in the food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phellinus igniarius is a medicinal fungus. Nonetheless, research on its water-soluble intracellular polysaccharides (IPSW-2 to 4) fractionation, structural elucidation, and antioxidant activity is limited. In this study, water-soluble intracellular polysaccharides (IPSW-2 to 4) were extracted and fractionated from P. igniarius mycelia, and their antioxidant and structural properties were assessed using GC-FID, GC-MS, FTIR, and NMR spectroscopy (1H and 13C). In the water-eluted P. igniarius polysaccharide fractions (IPS30W, IPS60W, and IPS80W) of anion-exchange chromatography, the polysaccharide content was 79.05%, 68.25%, and 62.06%, with higher yields of 25.07%, 21.38%, and 20.34%, respectively. In contrast, the salt (NaCl) elution fractions (IPS30S1, IPS60S1, IPS60S2, and IPS80S1) of anion-exchange chromatography had lower polysaccharide content and yield. Hence, water elution fractions (IPS30W, IPS60W, and IPS80W) were selected for further purification. After repeated purification using size-exclusion chromatography, IPSW-2 to 4 were obtained with a yield of 8% to 15.83%. The IPSW-2 to IPSW-4 structures were elucidated, and they showed no triple helical conformation. Based on periodate oxidation, Smith degradation, methylation analysis, and 1H and 13C NMR spectroscopy, the primary structures of IPSW-2, IPSW-3, and IPSW-4 were all glucan, with the main chain consisting of (1→6)-α-D-Glcp, (1→3,4)-α-D-Glcp, and (1→3, 6)-α-D-Glcp, with α-D-Glcp as a side chain. Finally, antioxidant analysis showed that IPS30W, IPS60W, and IPS80W were all more capable of scavenging superoxide anions than the polysaccharides of Phyllostachys (13.8%) and floribunda (15.1%) at the same concentration (0.40 mg/mL). This will serve as a guide for the development of functional foods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tea, one of the world's most consumed beverages, has a rich variety of sensory qualities such as appearance, aroma, mouthfeel and flavor. This review paper summarizes the chemical and volatile compositions and sensory qualities of different tea infusions including black, green, oolong, dark, yellow, and white teas based on published data over the past 4 years (between 2021 and 2024), largely focusing on the methodologies. This review highlights the relationships among the different processing methods of tea and their resulting chemical and sensory profiles. Environmental and handling factors during processing, such as fermentation, roasting, and drying are known to play pivotal roles in shaping the unique flavors and aromas of different types of tea, each containing a wide variety of compounds enhancing specific sensory characteristics like umami, astringency, sweetness, and fruity or floral notes, which may correlate with certain groups of chemical compositions. The integration of advanced analytical methods, such as high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS), with traditional sensory analysis techniques was found to be essential in the evaluation of the chemical composition and sensory attributes of teas. Additionally, emerging approaches like near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) and electronic sensory methods show potential in modern tea evaluation. The complexity of tea sensory characteristics necessitates the development of combined approaches using both analytical methods and human sensory analysis for a comprehensive and better understanding of tea quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Certain population in rural zones are still getting assistance from the traditional and folkloric medical systems. Before they cease to exist, this practice and knowledge need to be documented. Acorus calamus is a well-known aromatic herb with a rhizome that has been exhibited various therapeutic applications like gastroenteritis, antibacterial, antioxidant, antifungal, neuroprotective, antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and anti-asthmatic activity. In Siddha system, the thermally treated dried rhizome of A. calamus is generally used to cure gastrointestinal and neurological ailments occur especially in infants by mixing the powder of rhizome with milk, ghee, and water. In this study, we evaluate the effect of thermal treatment on screening of bioactive compounds from A. calamus rhizome. The dried rhizome was thermally treated at different temperatures and incubation periods followed by ethanol extraction for 12 h to obtain the bioactive compounds profile. The temperature was optimized to 500 °C for 100 s of incubation based on the number of identified compounds through GC–MS analysis. The optimized samples were further analyzed by using LC–MS/MS, FTIR, micro-Raman, DLS-zeta potential, and XRD. A number of sesquiterpenoids, alkaloids, fatty acids, amino acid derivatives, sterols, and glucosides were detected in the aforementioned methods. The difference was observed in the size and charge of thermally treated and control dried rhizome. This indicates the short time exposure of thermally treated rhizome to be enough to retrieve the major bioactive compounds and also has tremendous application to revert the ailments, over to dried control rhizome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Food & Fermentation Industries is the property of Food & Fermentation Industries and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

This study compares three Romanian Hyssopus officinalis species—H. officinalis f. ruber (HOR), H. officinalis f. albus (HOA), and H. officinalis f. cyaneus (HOC)—evaluating their chemical composition and biological activities, specifically protein denaturation, haemolysis inhibition, and antibacterial effects. Chemical profiles were determined using Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS). The species were cultivated at two distinct locations: the Didactic and Experimental Station DESUSVT and the Agricultural Research and Development Station Lovrin (ARDSL). This study investigates the correlation between chemical composition, biological activities, and local climate data at each site. The results show significant variations in chemical profiles, with species and cultivation location influencing the biological activities. H. officinalis f. albus (HOA) exhibited the strongest antimicrobial activity, particularly against Gram-positive bacteria. The molecular docking analysis highlighted key compounds, such as cyclohexene,4-isopropenyl-1-methoxymethoxymethyl and elemol, with binding solid affinities to microbial and inflammatory proteins. This study provides valuable insights into the chemical and biological properties of Hyssopus officinalis, emphasising its potential in combating microbial infections, protein denaturation, and haemolysis inhibition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Results Conclusion Brassica juncea L. (family Brassicaceae) or Indian mustard is a fast‐growing oilseed crop. Climate changes mean that it is very important to evaluate the effects of salinity stress on B. juncea. The aim of this study was therefore to show the metabolic effect of salinity stress on shoots and roots using two cultivation models – hydroponic and microplot – in different cultivars, including RH‐725 and RH‐761. Salinity levels of 5, 7.5, and 10 dS m⁻¹ were investigated, and compared with a control of 0 dS m⁻¹, using untargeted metabolomics with gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) post‐silylation, focusing on metabolic markers such as proline and glycine‐betaine.A total of 56 metabolites were identified, with the most prevalent classes belonging to sugars (8), followed by organic acids (13), amino acids (11), and fatty acids/esters (11). Shoots were found to have a higher sugar content than roots. Increases in unsaturated fatty acids were also associated with salinity stress, compared with a decrease in saturated fatty acids. Absolute levels of proline and glycine‐betaine correlated with salinity stress, with the largest increases detected in shoots grown under hydroponic conditions, particularly for the RH‐761 cultivar. Multivariate data analyses revealed that roots were more affected than shoots, regardless of cultivation model.These findings might explain the different metabolic behavior of B. juncea's roots and shoots under various levels of salinity, associated with higher levels of free sugars in shoots and lipids in roots. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims Limosilactobacillus reuteri ZJ625 and Ligilactobacillus salivarius ZJ614 are potential probiotic bacteria. The mechanisms of enhanced benefits by muti-strain probiotics are yet fully understood. We elucidated the influence of co-culturing on the metabolite profiles of Limosilactobacillus reuteri ZJ625 and Ligilactobacillus salivarius ZJ614 to decipher the impacts of co-culturing on metabolic interactions between the strains. Methods and results Limosilactobacillus reuteri ZJ625 and Ligilactobacillus salivarius ZJ614 were grown in single and co-cultures in defined media. Bacterial cell metabolites were extracted at the mid-stationary growth phase and analysed using two-dimensional gas chromatography–time-of-flight mass spectrometry (GC × GC–TOFMS). Mass-spectral data were preprocessed and analysed using unsupervised and supervised methods based on the group allocations. A total of 1387 metabolites were identified, with 18.31% significant metabolites (P  < 0.05) and 10.17% differential metabolites (P  < 0.05, variable importance on projection > 1). The differential metabolites identified include arabinofuranose, methyl-galactoside, N -acetylglutamic acid, phosphoric acid, and decanoic acid. The metabolites impacted carbohydrate and amino-sugar metabolism. Conclusion Co-culturing of Limosilactobacillus reuteri ZJ625 and Ligilactobacillus salivarius ZJ614 influenced the metabolite profiles of the strains and impacted metabolic/biosynthetic pathways, indicating cell-to-cell interactions between the strains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) is a biodegradable bio-plastic that can be produced by bacteria and used as a substitute for petrochemical plastics. Various sources of Poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) producing bacteria have been successfully studied. However, few bacteria from fish samples have been identified. More sources of Poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) producing bacteria need to be found to obtain potential bacteria. Therefore, it is necessary to carry out molecular identification of poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) producing bacteria isolated from Lutjanus sp. and determine the polymer content. The methods of this research include the isolation and screening of isolates of Poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) producing bacteria, molecular identification of Poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) producing bacteria, and production and determination of Poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) content using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GM-MS). The results indicate that during the bacterial screening stage, two isolates capable of producing Poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) were isolated from the intestine (UKA-2) and gill (IKA-4) of Lutjanus species. Molecular identification of UKA-2 and IKA-4 bacteria revealed their similarity to Enterobacter cloacae and Bacillus species. The Poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) content testing by GC-MS showed that the content value of UKA-2 was 1.39%, while IKA-4 had a content of 78%. This demonstrates the significant potential of the IKA-4 isolate, Bacillus sp. isolated from the gill of Lutjanus sp. to produce Poly(3-hydroxybutyrate). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Objectives: This study aimed to analyze the chemical composition and biological activities of Artemisia absinthium L. essential oil, focusing on its antioxidant and enzyme inhibition (α-amylase and urease) properties. Additionally, in vitro pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic evaluations were conducted through in silico molecular docking and BOILED-Egg models to assess its therapeutic potential and its potency in treating oxidative-stress-related diseases. Methods: The essential oil was isolated by the hydrodistillation (HD) of fresh plant material, and volatiles released from dried plant material were sampled via headspace solid-phase microextraction (HS-SPME), followed by a phytochemical profiling analysis through the GC-MS tool. Antioxidant capacity was assessed using DPPH, ABTS, FRAP, and nitric oxide scavenging assays, while enzyme inhibition activities were tested against α-amylase and urease. Molecular docking and BOILED-Egg models were used to evaluate compound interactions with NADPH oxidase and predict pharmacokinetic behavior, respectively. Results: HS-SPME and HD yielded 46 and 25 compounds, respectively, primarily terpenoids represented by camphor (26.4%) and cis-davanone (18.0%) in HS-SPME, while in the HD essential oil, cis-davanone (60.2%) and chamazulene (10.8%) were most prevalent. The antioxidant assays showed a strong activity, with a total antioxidant capacity of 821.8 mg ascorbic acid Eq/gm. The essential oil inhibited urease by 86.7% and α-amylase by 81.8%. Molecular docking showed strong binding affinities with NADPH oxidase, supporting the antioxidant results. Conclusions:A. absinthium EO demonstrated potent antioxidant and enzyme inhibitory activities, suggesting its therapeutic potential for treating enzyme-related disorders like diabetes mellitus and its possible use as a cure for many oxidative-stress-related diseases, thus validating the folkloric use of this plant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study employed proton transfer reaction mass spectrometry (PTR-MS) and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS) to identify and monitor volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in frying fumes generated during the deep frying of tempeh. The research aimed to assess the impact of frying conditions, including frying temperature, oil type, and repeated use cycles, on the formation of thermal decomposition products. A total of 78 VOCs were identified, with 42 common to both rapeseed and palm oil. An algorithm based on cosine similarity was proposed to group variables, resulting in six distinct emission clusters. The findings highlighted the prominence of saturated and unsaturated aldehydes, underscoring the role of fatty acid oxidation in shaping the frying fume composition. This study not only corroborates previous research but also provides new insights into VOC emissions during deep frying, particularly regarding the specific emission profiles of certain compound groups and the influence of frying conditions on these profiles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The potential of the green macroalga Ulva lactuca is increasingly recognized, not only for its environmental benefits, but also for its applications in various industries, including food, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. Given this insight, a comprehensive analysis of the chemical profile of U. lactuca from the Adriatic Sea was carried out. The hydrodistillate, rich in (Z,Z,Z)-hexadeca-7,10,13-trienal and hexadecanoic acid, underlines its importance for health-related uses, particularly in lipid metabolism and cellular integrity. Fatty acid analysis showed a predominance of palmitic acid and a favorable n-6/n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid ratio, suggesting that U. lactuca can make a valuable contribution to a balanced diet. In addition, essential amino acids, including leucine, valine, and isoleucine, support its use as a functional ingredient for muscle repair and metabolic health. The ethanol extract contained 56 compounds, including derivatives of fatty acids, phenolic acids, pigments, flavonoids, and steroids. Many of them, such as hexadecasphinganine, azelaic acid, 5-sulfosalicylic acid, and pheophytin a, have proven roles or potentials in promoting human health. These results confirm that U. lactuca is a rich source of bioactive compounds, emphasizing its potential in scientific research and its expanding industrial applications in health, nutrition, and cosmetics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The background and current studies in the area of fire investigation at the Turin Fire Department's Forensic Laboratory. It is uncommon to find an investigation facility, and even less often within fire brigade headquarters, that uses GC-MS and GC-TOF extensively to look for accelerants. During 16 years of intense effort, the Turin Fire Department in Italy accomplished various research projects on the identification of flame accelerants and more in fire residues. This collaborative effort between academics and firefighters is unique. It is based on the perspectives of individuals who often fight fires before going on to investigation. The article will outline the study that was done, explain how advances in instrumentation have produced ever-better outcomes and the next steps in the foreseeable future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Oryza coarctata (Roxb.), a mangrove plant in Bangladesh, was screened to identify active chemicals in the plant. • The phytochemical investigation, GC-MS, and HPLC analysis detected distinct phytochemicals. • The ethanol extract of O. coarctata showed marked antidiarrheal activities in vivo through a novel intestinal antisecretory mechanism. • Molecular docking and dynamics simulation revealed the structural stability of the complexes of selected phytochemicals, suggesting antidiarrheal activity through neprilysin inhibition. Plants are a rich source of medicinal compounds. The Sundarbans in Bangladesh, the largest deltaic swamp forest in the world, are home to many plant species, but research on the bioactivities of many of these plants is still lacking. The current study aims to explore the antioxidative and antidiarrheal effects of Oryza coarctata (common name: wild rice) and the responsible pharmacophores through in silico approaches. Ethanol extract of the experimental plant was subject to preliminary phytochemical screening, GC-MS, and HPLC analysis to identify secondary metabolites. In vitro antioxidant test and in vivo antidiarrheal assay was done. Moreover, molecular docking and dynamics simulation were performed on neprilysin protein to corroborate in vivo observational results. In the phytochemical tests, different secondary metabolites were found to be present. The result of the GC-MS ascertained 21 compounds having the highest yield of bicyclo[4.1.0]heptane-7-carboxylic acid-4-acetylphenyl ester (22.38%), and HPLC identified seven polyphenols with the most significant amount of (-) epicatechin (39.48 mg/100 g of dry extract). The quantitative measurement of total polyphenol, flavonoid, and terpenoid contents resulted in 158 mg GAE/g, 257 mg QE/g, and 19.85 mg UAE/g of dry extract. The SC 50 (50% scavenging capacity) of the extract in the DPPH and hydrogen peroxide scavenging assay was 56 µg/mL and 63.52 µg/mL as compared to 4 µg/mL and 11.07 µg/mL of ascorbic acid, respectively. The extract also posed ferric-reducing antioxidant capacity, which varied with concentration. In the acute toxicity study on mice, the extract produced no toxicity up to 3,000 mg/kg. The extract significantly (p<0.001) attenuated 72.59% and 79.04% diarrhea in castor oil- and 67.83% and 78.27% in magnesium sulfate-induced diarrheal models at 200 and 400 mg/kg oral doses in comparison to 83.88% reduction in castor oil- and 86.09% reduction in magnesium sulfate-induced model by the standard racecadotril at 20 mg/kg dose. In silico studies confirmed the structural stability of the docked complexes, and (-) epicatechin of all compounds revealed the best binding poses with the neprilysin (an enkephalinase) throughout a molecular dynamics simulation of 100 ns. Therefore, our findings provide a solid pharmacological basis for the antioxidant and antidiarrheal properties of O. coarctata and suggest that (-) epicatechin, 2,4-difluorobenzoic acid-2-propylphenyl ester (DE), bicyclo[4.1.0]heptane-7-carboxylic acid-4-acetylphenyl ester (BE), and 3-benzylsulfanyl-3-fluoro-2-trifluoromethyl-acrylonitrile (BA) could be the potential leads against neprilysin for antidiarrheal drug development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hibiscus is a charismatic genus of the Malvaceae family that is noted for its diversity, lacking identifiable characteristics for distinguishing its various species. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop authentication methods for genus delimitation and species delineation. The present study aims to discern the taxonomic relationships between the well-known, globally familiar, and economically important five Hibiscus species, namely: H. × rosa-sinensis, H. sabdariffa, H. schizopetalus, H. syriacus and H. tiliaceus based on traditional morphological and anatomical characteristics compared to the contemporary chemotaxonomy. In this context, the leaf-based methanolic extracts of the studied species were analyzed by Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometer (GC–MS) to estimate their secondary metabolites similarity. In addition, selected qualitative morphological and anatomical traits including leaf venation patterns, epidermal micromorphology, stomata types and trichomes diversity, petiole serial sectioning (outline, adaxial groove features, vasculature traces arrangement), and midrib characteristics of the studied species were investigated. The results of both chemotaxonomy and traditional taxonomy exhibited a remarkable agreement in the delineation of the five studied species. Specifically, the chemotaxonomy-based dendrogram separates the studied species into two main clusters with the H. sabdariffa as an outlier species in a single cluster and the remaining four species as another cluster with variant distances in its similarity indices. Similarly, the traditional morphological and anatomical characteristics revealed distinct traits for H. sabdariffa compared to the remaining four species. The findings of this study highlight the significance of integrating the structural features with phytochemicals profiling as a potential approach that could be harnessed for the delineation of the taxonomically challenging Hibiscus genus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sodium alkylbenzene sulfonates (ABS), or linear alkylbenzene sulfonates (LAS), are among the most common synthetic anionic surfactants and water pollutants, capable of causing both acute and chronic toxic effects on aquatic organisms. The selective determination of sodium alkylbenzene sulfonates as a distinct class of anionic surfactants in complex natural matrices is feasible by gas chromatography with mass spectrometric detection (GC–MS) in the form of linear alkylbenzenesulfonic acid methyl esters (LABSA ME). The behavior of LAS and LABSA ME was studied under ascending high-performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC) using Kieselgel 60 F254 and Sorbfil plates to purify extracts and preconcentrate analytes. A mixture of n-hexane with methanol (23 : 1, v/v) is proposed as a mobile phase. Under these conditions, sodium alkylbenzene sulfonates remain at the start line, while their derivatives (LABSA ME), obtained by methylation with trimethyl orthoformate in the presence of trifluoroacetic acid (yield η = 98%), form zones characterized by retention factors Rf of 0.62–0.71 on Kieselgel 60 F254 and Sorbfil plates, respectively. The repeatability of Rf values is characterized by a relative standard deviation of 6.1 and 5.9%, respectively (n = 16). The completeness of the extraction (95.0–100.0%) of analytes from the plates is noted using descending HPTLC with acetonitrile. The applicability of the HPTLC method for preconcentrating analytes and purifying extracts is demonstrated using real water samples. Using GC–MS with electron impact ionization, concentrations of sodium alkylbenzene sulfonates were found in water sampled from the southern basin of Lake Baikal at a depth of 400 m (0.24 ± 0.02 µg/L) and in water obtained from melting snow collected from the ice of the Krestovka River at its mouth near the settlement of Listvyanka (31.1 ± 1.0 µg/L). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Necrophagous flies, particularly blowflies, serve as vital indicators in forensic entomology and ecological studies, contributing to minimum postmortem interval estimations and environmental monitoring. The study investigates variations in the predominant cuticular hydrocarbons (CHCs) viz. n-C25, n-C27, n-C28, and n-C29 of empty puparia of Calliphora vicina Robineau-Desvoidy, 1830, (Diptera: Calliphoridae) across diverse environmental conditions, including burial, above-ground and indoor settings, over 90 days. Notable trends include a significant decrease in n-C25 concentrations in buried and above-ground conditions over time, while n-C27 concentrations decline in buried and above-ground conditions but remain stable indoors. Burial conditions show significant declines in n-C27 and n-C29 concentrations over time, indicating environmental influences. Conversely, above-ground conditions exhibit uniform declines in all hydrocarbons. Indoor conditions remain relatively stable, with weak correlations between weathering time and CHC concentrations. Additionally, machine learning techniques, specifically Extreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost), are employed for age estimation of empty puparia, yielding accurate predictions across different outdoor and indoor conditions. These findings highlight the subtle responses of CHC profiles to environmental stimuli, underscoring the importance of considering environmental factors in forensic entomology and ecological research. The study advances the understanding of insect remnant degradation processes and their forensic implications. Furthermore, integrating machine learning with entomological expertise offers standardized methodologies for age determination, enhancing the reliability of entomological evidence in legal contexts and paving the way for future research and development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]