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The composition and concentration of a low-molecular organic additive, leading to a significant improvement in the electrical properties of low-density polyethylene of high pressure grade 10,803-020, were experimentally determined. Phthalic anhydride and phthalic acid were used as modifying organic additives. The content of additives in the polyethylene of high pressure composition varied in the range of 0.01–0.1 wt%. It has been shown that the content of 0.05 wt% phthalic anhydride and phthalic acid in the composition polyethylene of high pressure (PEHP + 0.05 wt% PhAn + 0.05 wt% PhAc) is the optimal composition, since the electrical strength of the film has increased significantly. The dependences of the dielectric loss tangent and specific volumetric electrical resistance on temperature, as well as the kinetics of physicochemical changes in them under the influence of electrical discharges in air and UV irradiation, have been studied. It was established that the dielectric characteristics of the polymer composition PEHP + 0.05 wt% PhAn (storage life 40 years) changed slightly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The resistance of pests to common insecticides is a global issue that threatens food production worldwide. Diamide insecticides target insect ryanodine receptors (RyRs), causing uncontrolled calcium release from the sarcoplasmic and endoplasmic reticulum. Despite their high potency and species selectivity, several resistance mutations have emerged. Using a chimeric RyR (chiRyR) approach and cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM), we investigate how insect RyRs engage two different diamide insecticides from separate families: flubendiamide, a phthalic acid derivative, and tetraniliprole, an anthranilic compound. Both compounds target the same site in the transmembrane region of the RyR, albeit with different poses, and promote channel opening through coupling with the pore-forming domain. To explore the resistance mechanisms, we also solve two cryo-EM structures of chiRyR carrying the two most common resistance mutations, I4790M and G4946E, both alone and in complex with the diamide insecticide chlorantraniliprole. The resistance mutations perturb the local structure, directly reducing the binding affinity and altering the binding pose. Our findings elucidate the mode of action of different diamide insecticides, reveal the molecular mechanism of resistance mutations, and provide important clues for the development of novel pesticides that can bypass the resistance mutations. Pesticide resistance poses a serious threat to global food security. In this study, the authors show the mode of action of various diamide insecticides and elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying resistance mutations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, attention has been paid to the development of economically feasible strategies for enhanced remediation of anthracene and its conversion into biofuels. The strategies developed (B1, B2, B3, and B4) include bagasse and lipid-producing strain Rhodotorula mucilagenosa IIPL32 synthesizing surface active metabolites. The results indicate the highest production of surface-active metabolites in strategies B2, B3, and B4 along with a maximum biodegradation rate. GC–MS analysis affirmed the conversion of anthracene into phthalic acid in all the strategies. Biofuel quality of the lipid produced by the strain showed higher cetane number and improved cold flow property indicating the efficiency of the developed strategies for the production of commercial grade biodiesel. Furthermore, the phytotoxicity study of the spent wash revealed that 50% and 75% diluted spent wash were non-toxic and can be employed for ferti-irrigation. Thus, the study signifies the development of an economically feasible process that can be commercially employed in biofuel industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Increasing chemical pollution is a threat to sustainable water resources worldwide. Plastics and harmful additives released from plastics add to this burden and might pose a risk to aquatic organisms, and human health. Phthalates, which are common plasticizers and endocrine-disrupting chemicals, are released from polyvinyl chloride (PVC) microplastics and are a cause of concern. Therefore, the leaching kinetics of additives, including the influence of environmental weathering, are key to assessing exposure concentrations but remain largely unknown. We show that photoaging strongly enhances the leaching rates of di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) by a factor of 1.5, and newly-formed harmful transformation products, such as mono(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (MEHP), phthalic acid, and phthalic anhydride from PVC microplastics into the aquatic environment. Leaching half-lives of DEHP reduced from 449 years for pristine PVC to 121 years for photoaged PVC. Aqueous boundary layer diffusion (ABLD) is the limiting mass transfer process for the release of DEHP from pristine and photoaged PVC microplastics. The leaching of transformation products is limited by intraparticle diffusion (IPD). The calculated mass transfer rates can be used to predict exposure concentrations of harmful additives in the aquatic environment. The environmental weathering of plastics and the leaching kinetics of additives are key to assessing exposure concentrations. Here, the authors show that photoaging enhances the leaching rate of the common additive di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) by a factor of 1.5, and newly-formed harmful transformation products, such as mono(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (MEHP), phthalic acid, and phthalic anhydride, are released from PVC microplastics into the aquatic environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Objectives: Endocrine disruptors are ubiquitous agents in the environment and are present in everyday consumer products. These agents can interfere with the endocrine system, and subsequently the reproductive system, especially in pregnancy. An increasing number of studies have been conducted to discover and describe the health effects of these agents on humans, including pregnant women, their fetuses, and the placenta. This review discusses prenatal exposure to various endocrine disruptors, focusing on bisphenols, phthalates, organophosphates, and perfluoroalkyl substances, and their effects on pregnancy and fetal development. Methods: We reviewed the literature via the PubMed and EBSCO databases and included the most relevant studies. Results: Our findings revealed that several negative health outcomes were linked to endocrine disruptors. However, despite the seriousness of this topic and the abundance of research on these agents, it remains challenging to draw strong conclusions about their effects from the available studies. This does not allow for strong, universal guidelines and might result in poor patient counseling and heterogeneous approaches to regulating endocrine disruptors. Conclusions: The seriousness of this matter calls for urgent efforts, and more studies are needed in this realm, to protect pregnant patients, and ultimately, in the long term, society. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the appropriate polymer solutions were prepared to create chitosan/PVA blends. By altering the ratio of the ingredients, several chitosan/PVA mixtures were produced, as follows: 12% chitosan and 88% PVA, 40% chitosan and 60% PVA, and 15% chitosan and 85% PVA. To generate physically crosslinked hydrogels for the drug delivery of atenolol, several acid cross-linkers, such as fumaric acid and phthalic acid, were applied to the chitosan/PVA blends. The formulations included 15% chitosan and 85% PVA with 0.02% (0.0024, 0.0041, 0.02) mol of fumaric acid, as well as 15% chitosan and 85% PVA with 0.002, 0.003, and 0.0064 mol of phthalic acid. Using an ultraviolet-visible spectrophotometer, the chemical structures of the modified and unmodified chitosan (Chitosan/PVA) hydrogels were examined. Results regarding the formation of ionic cross-links between the protonated hydroxyl groups of the chitosan and the anionic functional groups of the cross-linking agent were established. The swelling ratio was determined for each hydrogel structure as a function of time in three distinct fluids with pH values of 2, 4, and 7.5, and at three distinct temperatures of 42°C and 44°C. The samples with the greatest swelling ratios were identified as PVA.PA0.002 (chitosan) and PVA.FA0.0024. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

STUDY QUESTION What is the longitudinal association between gestational phthalate exposure and in vivo placental outcomes? SUMMARY ANSWER Phthalates were adversely associated with placental microvasculature, stiffness, and presence of calcification, with different metabolites associated with different outcomes. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Phthalate exposure is ubiquitous and implicated as a contributor to adverse pregnancy outcomes, possibly through impacts on the placenta. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION A total of 303 women were recruited in early pregnancy and prospectively followed for up to eight visits across gestation in the Human Placenta and Phthalates study. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS At each visit, women provided urine samples and underwent placental ultrasounds. Urine was analyzed for 18 metabolites of phthalates and replacements. We took the geometric mean of repeated measurements to reflect pregnancy-averaged phthalate or replacement exposure for each participant (n = 303). Placental microvasculature, stiffness, and microcalcification presence were quantified from ultrasounds at each visit. Higher scores reflected worse placental function for all measures. Generalized linear mixed models were created to estimate the association between pregnancy-averaged exposure biomarker concentrations and repeated outcome measurements for microvasculature and stiffness. Gestational age at the time of calcification detection was modeled using Cox proportional hazards models. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Monocarboxyisononyl phthalate and summed di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate metabolites were associated with impaired microvasculature development, such that an interquartile range increase in concentration was associated with 0.11 standard deviation increase in the microvasculature ratio, indicating poorer vascularization (95% CI: 0.00, 0.22); 0.11 [95% CI: −0.01, 0.22], respectively. Monoethyl phthalate was associated with increased placental stiffness (0.09 [95% CI: −0.01, 0.19]) while summed di-iso-butyl phthalate metabolites and monobenzyl phthalate were associated with increased hazard of calcification detection (hazard ratios: 1.18 [95% CI: 0.98, 1.42]; 1.13 [95% CI: 0.96, 1.34]). LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Outcomes used in this study are novel and further investigation is needed to provide clinical context and relevance. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS We found evidence of associations between select phthalate biomarkers and various aspects of in vivo placental health, although we did not observe consistency across placental outcomes. These findings could illustrate heterogeneous effects of phthalate exposure on placental function. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This research was supported in part by the Intramural Research Program of the NIH, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (ZIA ES103344), and NIEHS T32ES007018. The authors declare that they have no competing interests to disclose. The findings and conclusions in this report are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the official position of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Use of trade names is for identification only and does not imply endorsement by the CDC, the Public Health Service, or the US Department of Health and Human Services. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The presented work presents the results of a study on the effect of small amounts of phthalic acid additives on dendrite formation in low-density polyethene (LDPE). Based on the results obtained, it is shown that the dendrite resistance of LDPE, as expected, increases with the introduction of 0.05 wt% phthalic acid. The established increase in dendrite resistance of LDPE with the introduction of phthalic acid can primarily be explained based on a decrease in inhomogeneities in the form of air pores as a result of accelerated structure formation and the emergence of a more homogeneous supramolecular structure. It was revealed that an increase in dendrite resistance correlates with an improvement in the dielectric characteristics of the composition. The influence of mechanical load on the development of dendrites in polymer dielectrics has been studied. As a result of studying the growth of dendrites in LDPE samples and its optimal composition subjected to unilateral stretching, it was found that under the influence of mechanical tensile stresses, the shape of the surface delimiting tree-like shoots changes, this surface is flattened in the direction of stretching. It has been shown that the rate of dendrite growth increases as mechanical tensile forces increase.

Abstract A new DES (MTPPBr-PHTH-DES) was prepared from a mixture of methyltriphenyl-phosphonium bromide (MTPPBr) and phthalic acid (PHTH). The eutectic point phase diagram showed that a one-to-one molar ratio of MTPPBr to PHTH is the optimal molar ratio for the synthesis of new DES. Then, it was characterized with various techniques such as FT-IR, TGA/DTA, densitometer, eutectic point, and NMR and used as a novel acid catalyst in the synthesis of pyrimido[4,5-d]pyrimidines and pyrano[3,2-c]chromes in solvent-free condition. Short reaction time, low temperature, high efficiency, green condition, and easy recycling and separation of the DES catalyst are among the most important features of the presented method.

This work presents the studies of a very strong hydrogen bond (VSHB) in biologically active phthalic acids. Research on VSHB comes topical due to its participation in many biological processes. The studies cover the modelling of intermolecular interactions and phthalic acids with 2,4,6-collidine and N,N-dimethyl-4-pyridinamine complexes with aim to obtain a VSHB. The four synthesized complexes were studied by experimental X-ray, IR, and Raman methods, as well as theoretical Car–Parrinello Molecular Dynamics (CP-MD) and Density Functional Theory (DFT) simulations. By variation of the steric repulsion and basicity of the complex' components, a very short intramolecular hydrogen bond was achieved. The potential energy curves calculated by the DFT method were characterized by a low barrier (0.7 and 0.9 kcal/mol) on proton transfer in the OHN intermolecular hydrogen bond for 3-nitrophthalic acid with either 2,4,6-collidine or N,N-dimethyl-4-pyridinamine cocrystals. Moreover, the CP-MD simulations exposed very strong bridging proton dynamics in the intermolecular hydrogen bonds. The accomplished crystallographic and spectroscopic studies indicate that the OHO intramolecular hydrogen bond in 4-nitrophthalic cocrystals is VSHB. The influence of a strong steric effect on the geometry of the studied cocrystals and the stretching vibration bands of the carboxyl and carboxylate groups was elaborated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polyethylene is a plastic pollutant impacting marine life, calling for advanced remediation methods such as biodegradation. However, there is actually limited information on polyethylene-degrading bacteria in the marine environment. Here, we studied bacterial degradation of polyethylene and associated phthalates additives using scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared, gel permeation chromatography and genomic and transcriptomic techniques. Results show that a deep-sea bacteria, Acinetobacter venetianus F1, can degrade 12.2% of polyethylene after 56 days, following the alkane metabolic pathway. Phthalates were also degraded via the metabolic pathways of benzoic acid and phthalic acid. This is first report of polyethylene-degrading bacteria from deep-sea environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The document is a contents list for the journal Chemical Communications. It provides a list of articles and their authors that are featured in the journal's latest issue. The articles cover a range of topics in the field of chemistry, including electrocatalytic water-to-oxygen conversion, catalyst development for oxidative dehydrogenation, and photomechanical properties in metal-organic crystals. The journal aims to connect the global chemistry community and invest its profits back into the field. [Extracted from the article]

An assembly between 1,4-dicarboxylbenzene-2,3-dithiol (H2dcbdt) and different transition metal ions successfully produced 2D metal–organic frameworks (M-dcbdt, M = Ni, Co or Fe) composed of unprecedented butterfly-shaped metal-bis(dithiolene) (MS4) linkers in one-pot fashion. Such strategy provides easier access to the [MS4]-rich network and lowers the prerequisite to explore their applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lanthanide metal–organic frameworks (Ln-MOFs) have unique advantages in sensing due to their excellent optical properties. In this study, we synthesized a dicarboxylic acid ligand with amide groups and successfully synthesized a novel two-dimensional (2D) MOF with the molecular formula C42H31EuN4O10 (Eu-MOF) by a solvothermal method. Single-crystal X-ray diffraction showed that amide groups are exposed on the outside of the two-dimensional coordination layer, with the possibility of recognizing specific molecules through hydrogen bonding interactions. The ligand's "antenna effect" enables Eu-MOF to emit a strong luminescence characterized by the "f–f" transition. Further studies have revealed that Eu-MOF could be used as a bifunctional fluorescent probe for the selective detection of benzaldehyde and Fe3+. The sensing mechanism has been analyzed in detail through powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD) analysis, UV-vis spectroscopy, fluorescence lifetime measurement, and density functional (DFT) theory calculation. This design and research can provide a reference for subsequent related work. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lanthanide metal–organic frameworks (Ln-MOFs) have unique advantages in sensing due to their excellent optical properties. In this study, we synthesized a dicarboxylic acid ligand with amide groups and successfully synthesized a novel two-dimensional (2D) MOF with the molecular formula C42H31EuN4O10 (Eu-MOF) by a solvothermal method. Single-crystal X-ray diffraction showed that amide groups are exposed on the outside of the two-dimensional coordination layer, with the possibility of recognizing specific molecules through hydrogen bonding interactions. The ligand's "antenna effect" enables Eu-MOF to emit a strong luminescence characterized by the "f–f" transition. Further studies have revealed that Eu-MOF could be used as a bifunctional fluorescent probe for the selective detection of benzaldehyde and Fe3+. The sensing mechanism has been analyzed in detail through powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD) analysis, UV-vis spectroscopy, fluorescence lifetime measurement, and density functional (DFT) theory calculation. This design and research can provide a reference for subsequent related work. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two new heteroleptic cobalt(III)dialkyldithiophosphate complex cations with a 1,2-bis(diphenylphosphino)ethane (dppe) ancillary ligand having formula [Co{S2P(OR)2}2(dppe)](B(C6H5)4) (R = –C2H5 (Co–Et); –CH(CH3)2 (Co–Pr)) have been synthesized and characterized spectroscopically as well as via single crystal X-ray diffraction analysis. The single crystal X-ray diffraction analyses reveal that the immediate geometries around Co(III) in both complexes are distorted octahedral, which are satisfied by four sulfur atoms of two dialkyldithiophosphate ligands and two phosphorus centers of the dppe ligand. These complex cations are neutralized by tetraphenyl borate B(C6H5)4 anions. The solid-state framework of both complexes are stabilized by C–H⋯π and C–H⋯C interactions. The nature of these interactions have been addressed with the help of Hirshfeld surface analysis, and percent contributions of pertinent interactions in the crystal structure of these complexes have been addressed using fingerprint plots. Both complexes have been used as heterogeneous electrocatalysts for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER). Results suggest that Co–Et is a better electrocatalyst for the OER, displaying an onset potential of 1.68 V and Tafel slope of 114 mV dec−1. Furthermore, in the homogeneous electrocatalysis of the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) using trifluoroacetic acid, the overpotential for Co–Et and Co–Pr have been 1.05 V and 0.92 V, respectively, with turnover frequencies of 1518 s−1 and 287.5 s−1, respectively. Overall, heterogeneous OER and homogenous HER results suggest that Co–Et can be used as an efficient molecular electrocatalyst for oxygen/hydrogen evolution reactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heavy metal pollution and toxicity from water resources have remained a great concern for the entire population. This research demonstrates the capability of carbon quantum dots (CQDs) for fluorescence-based heavy metal detection in different water resources using a fibre-optic spectrometer device. Two different types of CQDs phthalic acid and triethylenediamine (PT CQDs) and Folic acid (FCQDs) were synthesized using microwave irradiation and hydrothermal method, respectively. CQDs were characterized using several techniques such as TEM, EDX, XPS and FTIR. PTCQD and FCQDs both were tested for sensing capability in water reservoirs like household and river water. The results indicate that both CQDs were able to detect all six heavy metal ions (Pb2+, Co2+, Mn3+, Hg2+, Ni2+, Cr3+) tested in the study in the range of 0–100 µM. It was found that FCQDs show a three-fold higher sensitivity and greater resolution than PTCQDs for all the heavy metals samples. The CQDs' sensing capability shows that they can achieve a limit of detection in the range of 0.15–3 µM along with 100% accuracy in terms of recovery with minimal error, these results indicate that both CQDs have a tremendous potential to be used as a sensor for the detection of heavy metals even in complex water matrices. FCQDs show more sensitivity for all metals compared to PTCQDs and used in future as a sensing tool for heavy metal detection with better sensitivity and accuracy with less response time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The presented work presents the results of a study on the effect of small amounts of phthalic acid additives on dendrite formation in low-density polyethene (LDPE). Based on the results obtained, it is shown that the dendrite resistance of LDPE, as expected, increases with the introduction of 0.05 wt% phthalic acid. The established increase in dendrite resistance of LDPE with the introduction of phthalic acid can primarily be explained based on a decrease in inhomogeneities in the form of air pores as a result of accelerated structure formation and the emergence of a more homogeneous supramolecular structure. It was revealed that an increase in dendrite resistance correlates with an improvement in the dielectric characteristics of the composition. The influence of mechanical load on the development of dendrites in polymer dielectrics has been studied. As a result of studying the growth of dendrites in LDPE samples and its optimal composition subjected to unilateral stretching, it was found that under the influence of mechanical tensile stresses, the shape of the surface delimiting tree-like shoots changes, this surface is flattened in the direction of stretching. It has been shown that the rate of dendrite growth increases as mechanical tensile forces increase. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, we report the room temperature synthesis of a novel two-dimensional (2D) coordination polymer (CP) having the formula {[Cd(H-PCA)2(H2O)]·0.5(H2O)·0.5(CH3OH)}n (CP1), where H-PCA represents 4-pyrazolecarboxylate. The synthesis of CP1 was achieved through a one-pot reaction, involving the self-assembly of Cd(OAc)2·2H2O and the multitopic mixed N- and O-donor ligand, 4-pyrazolecarboxylic acid (H2-PCA), in methanol. This method demonstrated high yield and purity, enabling the facile production of multigram quantities of CP1 within a short timeframe. Notably, the synthetic procedure selectively deprotonates the carboxylic acid group while retaining the pyrazole moiety in its protonated form. CP1 has been thoroughly characterized using various analytical techniques, including single-crystal X-ray diffraction, FTIR spectroscopy, elemental analysis, scanning electron microscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, and powder X-ray diffraction. The structural analysis revealed that CP1 features a 3, 5-connected binodal net with the point symbol {4.5.6}{4.55.63.7}, leading to a unique -ths net topology. Through hydrogen bonding connections between adjacent 2D sheets, CP1 further extends into a three-dimensional (3D) supramolecular network due to the presence of coordinated water molecules and the protonated pyrazole group. Additionally, a 3D Hirshfeld Surface analysis accompanied by quantitative 2D fingerprint plots was also investigated to explore the intermolecular interactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The crystal structure of 2,3,5,6-tetraiodo-1,4-benzenedicarboxylic acid dihydrate is described and the following structural features are established by XRD: C8H6I4O6, M 705.73; monoclinic crystal system, P21/n space group; unit cell parameters: a = 5.78160(10) Å, b = 15.0976(2) Å, c = 17.3437(3) Å; α = 90°, β = 94.602(2)°, γ = 90°; V = 1509.02(4) Å3, Z = 4, ρcalc = 3.106 g/cm3. Some features of the thermolysis of terephthalic acid and its iodine derivatives are described. Diiodoterephthalic acid is the least thermally stable, tetraiodoterephthalic acid is the most stable. The iodinated terephthalic acids have similar heats of fusion. The largest amount of carbon residue is formed during the decomposition of 2,3,5,6-tetraiodo-1,4-benzenedicarboxylic acid. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A simple and rapid method using an energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence (EDXRF) spectrometer is developed for facilitating the analysis of aqueous as well as organic process stream solutions from a zirconium extraction facility for the quantification of zirconium oxide (ZrO2) and hafnium oxide (HfO2). Except for dilution, not much sample preparation is involved in the analysis and accordingly the experimental parameters are optimized. Calibrations are performed separately using a set of synthetic standard solutions of zirconium and hafnium prepared in nitric acid medium for aqueous samples and in TBP + kerosene medium for organic samples. Studies are carried out to examine the effect of free acidity, sample matrix, and sample volume on determination of Zr and Hf and optimization of these parameters has been carried out accordingly for regular analysis. Zirconium oxide (ZrO2) and hafnium oxide (HfO2) are calculated from the results for reporting purposes. The results from the EDXRF method are compared with those of a gravimetric (phthalic acid precipitation) method with respect to zirconium and ICP-AES method with respect to Hf. On comparison, the results are found to be in good agreement. Detection limits for the developed method are found to be 0.06 g L−1 for ZrO2 and 0.03 g L−1 for HfO2. The developed method is employed for the determination of ZrO2 up to 200 g L−1 and HfO2 up to 5 g L−1 in various process stream solutions from a zirconium extraction facility. A RSD of less than 3% has been achieved for ZrO2 and less than 5% has been achieved for HfO2 in this method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study investigated the impact of Saccharomyces cerevisiae fermentation on apricot kernel oil extraction and the resulting quality characteristics of the oil. The seed kernels underwent physicochemical and antioxidant studies after being separated, gelatinized, and fermented. The results revealed 43.6 % of oil yield by fermentation. The extracted oil had a lower acid value (3.74 mg KOH/g), and peroxide value (4.25 meq/kg). The investigation of additional oil properties was included, like iodine value (100.26 mg KOH/g), saponification value (190.5 mg KOH/g), specific gravity (0.919), viscosity (4.62), moisture content (0.592 %), and refractive index (1.4836), which signifies optimum physicochemical parameters of oil. As per the FTIR data, some distinct functional groups like C-H stretch and C O, C C, CH3, OH, and R-O-R esters were found in the extracted oil. The oil's fatty acid composition, with 50.47 % saturated, 22.23 % mono-unsaturated, and 35.13 % polyunsaturated fatty acids, enhances stability, oxidative resistance, and nutritional value, justifying its favorable physicochemical properties. The DPPH radical scavenging activity of the oil showed to have good antioxidant activity. Metabolic modeling of S. cerevisiae provided information about compounds received after fermentation. Hence, it can be concluded that fermentation is a suitable approach to extract apricot seed kernel oil with beneficial properties. [Display omitted] • Apricot seed kernel is a good source of oil, we can use it for multiple purposes. • Saccharomyces cerevisiae -based fermentation, we can get 43.6 % of oil. • Different beneficial fatty acids were obtained from this oil: Caprylic, Lauric, Margaric, Paullinic, Phthalic acid, etc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cystinuria is a genetic disorder, and in severe cases, it might lead to kidney failure. As an important biomarker for cystinuria, the level of arginine (Arg) in urine is a vital indicator for cystinuria screening. Therefore, it is urgently needed to detect Arg with high selectivity and sensitivity. In this work, a boric acid functionalized Zr-based metal–organic framework UiO-PhbA is prepared by grafting phenylboronic acid on UiO-66-NH2 through a Schiff base reaction using a covalent post-synthesis modification (CPSM) strategy. The prepared UiO-PhbA exhibits a sensitive and specific fluorescence "turn-on" response to Arg and can be exploited to detect Arg in human serum and urine samples with a broad linear range of 0.6–350 µM and low limit of detection (LOD) of 18.45 nM. This study provides a new and reliable rapid screening protocol for sulfite oxidase deficiency-related diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new DES (MTPPBr-PHTH-DES) was prepared from a mixture of methyltriphenyl-phosphonium bromide (MTPPBr) and phthalic acid (PHTH). The eutectic point phase diagram showed that a one-to-one molar ratio of MTPPBr to PHTH is the optimal molar ratio for the synthesis of new DES. Then, it was characterized with various techniques such as FT-IR, TGA/DTA, densitometer, eutectic point, and NMR and used as a novel acid catalyst in the synthesis of pyrimido[4,5-d]pyrimidines and pyrano[3,2-c]chromes in solvent-free condition. Short reaction time, low temperature, high efficiency, green condition, and easy recycling and separation of the DES catalyst are among the most important features of the presented method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalic acid (DEHP) pollutes the environment, and posing a significant risk to human and animal health. Consequently, a successful preventative strategy against DEHP-induced liver toxicity needs to be investigated. Morin hydrate (MH), a flavanol compound, possesses toxic preventive attributes against various environmental pollutants. However, the effects of MH have not been investigated against DEHP-induced liver toxicity. Female Swiss albino mice were divided into four groups: control, DEHP (orally administered with 500 mg/kg, DEHP plus MH 10 mg/kg, and DEHP plus MH 100 mg/kg for 14 days. The results showed that the MH treatment ameliorated the DEHP-induced liver dysfunctions by decreasing the alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), total bilirubin, liver histoarchitecture, fibrosis, and markers of oxidative stress. Furthermore, DEHP increased apoptosis, increased active caspase 3 and decreased B cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2) expression. However, the MH treatment showed a differential effect on these proteins; a lower dose increased, and a higher dose decreased the expression. Thus, a lower dose of MH could be involved in the disposal of damaged hepatocytes. Expression of Estrogen receptors alpha (ERα) also showed a similar trend with active caspase 3. Furthermore, the expression of Tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) and Nuclear factor-κβ (NF-κβ) were up-regulated by DEHP treatment, and MH treatment down-regulated the expression of these two inflammatory markers. Since this down-regulation of TNF-α and NF-κβ coincides with improved liver functions against DEHP-induced toxicity, it can be concluded that MH-mediated liver function involves the singling of TNF-α and NF-κβ. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phthalic acid esters (PAEs) are human made chemicals widely used as plasticizers to enhance the flexibility of plastic products. Due to the lack of chemical bonding between phthalates and plastics, these materials can easily enter the environment. Deleterious effects caused by this chemo-pollutant have drawn the attention of the scientific community to remediate them from different ecosystem. In this context, many bacterial strains have been reported across different habitats and Sphingobium yanoikuyae strain P4 is among the few psychrotolerant bacterial species reported to biodegrade simple and complex phthalates. In the present study, biodegradation of three structurally different PAEs viz., diethyl phthalate (DEP), di-isobutyl phthalate (DIBP), and butyl benzyl phthalate (BBP) have been investigated by the strain P4. Quantitative analyses through High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) revealed that the bacterium completely degraded 1 g/L of DEP, DIBP, and BBP supplemented individually in minimal media pH 7.0 within 72, 54, and 120 h of incubation, respectively, at 28 °C and under shake culture condition (180 rpm). In addition, the strain could grow in minimal media supplemented individually with up to 3 g/L of DEP and 10.0 g/L of DIBP and BBP at 28 °C and pH 7.0. The strain also could grow in metabolites resulting from biodegradation of DEP, DIBP, and BBP, viz. n-butanol, isobutanol, butyric acid, ethanol, benzyl alcohol, benzoic acid, phthalic acid, and protocatechuic acid. Furthermore, phthalic acid and protocatechuic acid were also detected as degradation pathway metabolites of DEP and DIBP by HPLC, which gave an initial idea about the biodegradation pathway(s) of these phthalates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dendrimers are potent nanocarriers in drug delivery systems because their structure can be precisely controlled. We previously reported that polyamidoamine (PAMAM) dendrimers that were modified with 1,2-cyclohexanedicarboxylic acid (CHex) and phenylalanine (Phe), PAMAM-CHex-Phe, exhibited an effective association with various immune cells, including T-cells. In this study, we synthesized various carboxy-terminal Phe-modified dendrimers with different linkers using phthalic acid and linear dicarboxylic acids to determine the association of these dendrimers with Jurkat cells, a T-cell model. PAMAM-n-hexyl-Phe demonstrated the highest association with Jurkat T-cells. In addition, dendri-graft polylysine (DGL) with CHex and Phe, DGL-CHex-Phe, was synthesized, and its association with Jurkat cells was investigated. The association of DGL-CHex-Phe with T-cells was higher than that of PAMAM-CHex-Phe. However, it was insoluble in water and thus it is unsuitable as a drug carrier. Model drugs, such as protoporphyrin IX and paclitaxel, were loaded onto these dendrimers, and the most model drug molecules could be loaded into PAMAM-CHex-Phe. PTX-loaded PAMAM-CHex-Phe exhibited cytotoxicity against Jurkat cells at a similar level to free PTX. These results suggest that PAMAM-CHex-Phe exhibited both efficient T-cell association and drug loading properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Melon is an important crop worldwide. However, this crop has many problems, such as high production costs, pests, diseases, and sensitivity to abiotic stresses. Among the diseases that negatively impact its production, vine decline disease (VDD), caused by the fungus Monosporascus cannonballus, is very dangerous because it affects the plant when the fruit is almost ready to be harvested, which causes huge losses to growers. In addition, this disease is widely spread in areas where melons are grown all over the world, and its control through soil fumigation is costly and polluting. Thus, cheap and sustainable ways to combat it must be found. Therefore, this study was conducted with the objectives of identifying and quantifying phenolic compounds produced during the interaction of melon plants with the fungus M. cannonballus, which can be useful in controlling VDD, ameliorating cultural practices of this crop, and consequently reducing production costs. Two varieties were grown and inoculated with the fungus M. cannonballus: TAM-Uvalde (susceptible) and USDA PI 124104 (resistant). Their roots were sampled before inoculating with the fungus (0 h) and 24, 48, and 72 h after inoculation. The root chemicals were then analyzed using high-performance liquid chromatography. Our results indicate that phthalic acid was induced in the roots after inoculation in both varieties, which suggests that it is produced by the plant as a defensive compound. Also, the production of phthalic acid varied over time according to the variety used, which suggests its allelopathic function. [Figure: see text] Copyright © 2024 The Author(s). This is an open access article distributed under the CC BY-NC-ND 4.0 International license.

To improve the solubility, a series of novel pharmaceutical salts prepared by ciprofloxacin as the active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) and phthalic acid and its isomers or substituted benzene carboxylic acids as the coformers were synthesized and structurally characterized. The solubility of these pharmaceutical salts is enhanced compared to the parent APIs. The solubility values of three benzene dicarboxylates of ciprofloxacin in phosphate buffer (pH = 6.8) are 20.5 times, 21.8 times, and 2.0 times that of ciprofloxacin, respectively. In particular, the solubility of ciprofloxacin salicylate hydrate has been dramatically improved (up to 349 times) in both neutral (1.45 and 1.32 mg mL−1 at pH 6.4 and 6.8, respectively) and acidic (13.96 mg mL−1 at pH 1.2) environments. Computational chemistry was employed to analyze the solubility of ciprofloxacin salts and elucidate the mechanisms underlying their enhanced solubility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Immobilization of imidazole molecules as proton carriers into MOFs to facilitate proton conduction is a general strategy for developing high proton conductive materials. Herein, we designed two imidazole substituted phthalic acid ligands and constructed two novel MOFs, {[Zr6(OH)16(H3L1)4]Cl8·20H2O}n [Zr-MOF; H3L1 = 2-(1H-imidazol-4-yl) methylaminoterephthalic acid] and {Gd(HCOO)(H2L2)2}n [Gd-MOF; H3L2 = 5-(1H-imidazol-4-yl)methylaminoisophthalic acid] and fully studied their porous nature, stability and water-assisted proton conduction. The resulting Zr-MOF exhibits a high proton conductivity of 1.82 × 10−2 S cm−1 at 98% RH and 80 °C, while Gd-MOF has a proton conductivity of 3.01 × 10−3 S cm−1 at 98% RH and 60 °C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Organic contaminants such as diesters of phthalic acid (PAEs) can be conveyed by microplastics in aquatic environment and constitute a relevant risk to marine organisms and humans that consume them. A method was developed for the identification and quantitative detection of 6 dimethyl phthalate (DMP), di-ethyl phthalate (DEP), di-n-butyl phthalate (DNBP), butyl benzyl phthalate (BBP), di-2-ethylesyl phthalate (DHEP), and di-n-octyl phthalate (DnOP). PAEs were then quantified in mesozooplankton, mollusk bivalves, and fish from the north-western Mediterranean Sea. Among all PAEs, DEHP was found in all zooplankton samples, in 30% of fish samples, and in 10% of bivalve samples. DBP was instead recovered in only 4% of samples (plankton and fish). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zinc metal–organic frameworks (Zn-MOFs) of phthalic acid (ZnPA) and nitro-phthalic acid (ZnNPA) microcrystalline particles were fabricated and utilized for the removal of organic cationic dyes (crystal violet (CV), methylene blue (MB) and rhodamine B (RhB)) from water. PXRD studies confirmed the formation of crystalline materials, and BET indicated the mesoporous structure. HR-SEM studies showed the rod and plate morphologies for ZnPA and ZnNPA, respectively. ZnPA revealed low adsorption of dyes (CV, 20%) whereas ZnNPA showed significantly enhanced dye adsorption (CV, 99%). In particular, ZnNPA exhibited higher adsorption of CV (99%) and MB dye (83%) compared to RhB (54%). Nevertheless, ZnNPA could not be reused due to strong adsorption of dyes. Hence, a natural binder was introduced by dipping ZnNPA into tea extract, which also showed high adsorption of CV and MB dyes. Kinetics of adsorption exhibited best fitting with the pseudo-second-order model, indicating strong interactions between the dyes and adsorbent. Adsorption isotherm fitting suggested a good correlation coefficient (R2) with the Freundlich model, suggesting multi-layer adsorption. Interestingly, ZnNPA showed high adsorption of CV and MB dyes across the pH range between 3.0 and 11.0. The binder-introduced ZnNPA adsorbent was easily regenerated and demonstrated three cycles of reusability without significant change in the dye adsorption. Thus, the present work indicated the role of functional groups in the ligand and binder for improving the dye adsorption characteristics of MOFs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aromatic acids are ubiquitous in seawater (SW) and can be transported to the atmosphere via sea spray aerosol (SSA). Despite their importance in affecting the global radiative balance, the contribution of marine aromatic acids and their transport mechanisms through SSA remain unclear. Herein, the distribution of particle size and number concentration of SSA produced in SW containing nine different aromatic acids (i.e., benzoic acids, benzenedicarboxylic acids, hydroxybenzoic acids, vanillic acid, and syringic acid) was studied using a custom-made SSA simulation chamber; moreover, the enrichment of aromatic acids in SSA and their emission flux to the atmosphere were analyzed. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images clearly revealed that aromatic acids can be transferred to the nascent SSA. Interestingly, the morphology associated with benzenedicarboxylic-acid-coated particles showed that aromatic acids can promote the growth of other surfaces of sea salt, thus making the sea salt core spherical. Aromatic acids showed a significant enrichment behavior at the air–sea interface, which clearly indicated that SSA represents a source of aromatic acids in the atmosphere. Vanillic acid had the largest global emission flux through SSA (962 tyr-1), even though its concentration in SW was lower. The calculated results indicated that the global annual flux of aromatic acids was affected not only by the concentration in SW, but also by their enrichment factor (EF). These data are critical for further quantifying the contribution of organic acids to the atmosphere via SSA, which may provide an estimate of the potential influence of the atmospheric feedbacks to the ocean carbon cycle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new type of titanium phthalate (Ti-PA) catalyst was prepared by exchange method of phthalic acid and isopropyl titanate, which is never been reported before. The Ti-PA catalyst was characterized by FT-IR, TG, Uv–vis, BET, SEM, and EDS. The Ti-PA catalyst shows good catalytic activity in the alcoholysis reaction of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and optimal experimental conditions for the alcoholysis process were optimized by response surface methodology; the Ti-PA catalyst provided a BHET yield of 81.98% for reaction lasting 3.98 h at 191 °C of 0.86% catalyst and 13.7 ml ethylene glycol; the model has good reliability. The kinetics and reaction mechanism of the process were explored and apparent activation energy is 75.52 kJ/mol. Finally, the good catalytic activity of Ti-PA was illustrated by comparing it with currently reported catalysts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The determination of phthalate ester concentrations in stored packaged water brands produced in Enugu State was carried out and the health risks evaluated. Packaged water samples were obtained in four batches from six sachet water and six bottled water factories, and stored outdoor for 1 month before analysis, while control samples were obtained and analysed immediately after purchase. Solvent extraction was carried out using dichloromethane, and phthalates concentrations were determined using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry. The range of limit of detection, recovery analysis and limit of quantitation were 0.001-0.002 mg/L, 81.26–91.47% and 0.003-0.006 mg/L respectively. The concentrations (µg/L) of DMP, BBP, MEHP, DBP and PADHE were<0.002–0.13, 0.41–1.84, <0.002–19.66, 0.76–4.22 and <0.002–0.81 in the bottled water and 0.11–0.36, <0.002–0.43, 0.21–5.75, 0.87–3.28 and <0.002–0.57 in the sachet water. Dimethyl phthalate (DMP) concentrations in the exposed and stored sachet water were significantly higher (P˂0.05) than that obtained from bottled water. There were also significantly higher (P<0.05) concentrations of Diethyl phthalate (DEP), Butyl benzyl phthalate (BBP), Di-butyl phthalate (DBP) and phthalic acid decyl hept-2-yl ester (PADHE), and pH in exposed sachet water than the control. Non-carcinogenic hazard quotient for phthalate esters in the packaged water samples was ˂1, which indicates no carcinogenic health risk. The contribution of individual phthalates to drinking water for Mono-2-ethylhexyl phthalate in both adults and toddlers exceeded the 0.5% TDI in some of the packaged water brands. Results suggest that increased concentrations of phthalate esters in the exposed packaged water samples were as a result of storage temperature, while the presence of phthalate esters in few of the control samples was probably from the packaging process. Although the levels of phthalates were low, regular consumption of packaged water could be detrimental to health of the general populace. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article presents partially bio‐based unsaturated polyester resins (UPR) based on 2,5‐furandicarboxylic acid (FDCA). Three different FDCA‐based resins are prepared, which are potentially suited as i) general purpose resin (composed of 1,2‐propylene glycol), ii) resin for pultrusion (composed of diethylene glycol and 1,2‐propylene glycol), and iii) resin for pipe liners (composed of neopentyl glycol and 1,2‐propylene glycol). The mechanical and thermal properties of the bio‐based UPR are systematically investigated and compared with analogous fossil‐based UPR composed of phthalic and isophthalic acid, signaling comparable or even better properties for the bio‐based resins depending on the application targeted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Symbiotic bacteria from seagrass and molluscs have the potential to be a source of secondary metabolites. Compounds from these secondary metabolites, such as natural food preservatives, can be used in the bioindustry sector. This research aims to identify the potential secondary metabolites from symbiotic bacteria in molluscs and seagrass that can support the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) public health program. The samples used in this study were symbiotic bacteria of mollusc from seagrass environments, symbiotic bacteria from seagrass, and seagrass samples. The seagrass samples were analysed phytochemically, while the symbiotic bacteria samples from molluscs and seagrass were tested for their antibacterial activity against food spoilage pathogens such as Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli using the disc diffusion method. Bacteria that showed potential antibacterial activity were identified using molecular methods, and the content of active compounds was analysed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The phytochemical analysis revealed that seagrass contains flavones, tannins, steroids, and compounds with potential antibacterial properties. GC-MS analysis indicated that seagrass is predominantly composed of unsaturated fatty acids, which have antimicrobial effects by damaging bacterial cell membranes and disrupting the function of enzymes essential for growth and reproduction. Ten symbiotic bacteria isolates demonstrated proteolytic, cellulolytic, and lipolytic enzyme activity, suggesting their potential as antibacterial agents due to their ability to break down cell walls. Molecular identification of selected bacteria revealed the presence of mollusc symbionts, including Vibrio owensii, Bacillus paramycoides, and Pseudoalteromonas flavipulchra. The symbiotic bacteria found in seagrass in this study included Bacillus velezensis, Bacillus paramycoides, Nocardiopsis alba, Nocardiopsis alba, Bacillus tropicus, Lysinibacillus fusiformis, and Bacillus tropicus. GC-MS analysis of selected symbiotic bacteria from seagrass showed that the dominant compound components were phthalic acid, bis(7-methyl octyl) ester (25.18, 43.84, 35.55 %), and trimethoxy-3-piperidyl-2,2'-binaphthalene-1,1',4,4'-tetrone (36.36, 47.71, 64.48 %). In conclusion, seagrass and its symbiotic bacteria, as well as symbiotic bacteria from molluscs living in seagrass, have the potential to serve as antibacterial agents and can be used as references for food preservatives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbonized polymer dots (CPDs) have received much attention in recent years owing to their cost‐effective synthesis, high resistance to photobleaching, environmental friendliness, and excellent biocompatibility. However, the aggregation‐induced fluorescence quenching is a great obstacle to its applications. In this work, the highly fluorescent CPDs are prepared by a facile hydrothermal method assisted by polyethylene glycol (PEG) as the surface passivation agent, where phthalic acid and ethylenediamine are used as carbon and nitrogen source, respectively. Meanwhile, five types of PEG species are applied to prepare five CPDs to investigate PEG on optical properties of the resultant CPDs, among which the best quantum yield reaches 57.0 %. The promising applications of CPDs as fluorescent inks, sensors, light emitting diodes, and UV shielding films have been demonstrated. Overall, our contribution here develops a facile and accessible route for the synthesis of CPDs and further demonstrates its versatile applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Farmacia is the property of Societatea de Stiinte Farmaceutice Romania 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 aims to solve the discharge of printing and dyeing reverse osmosis concentrate (PDROC) from a local printing and dyeing factory in Hangzhou, China. Electrochemical technique was used to treat the organic content of the concentrated wastewater. At the same time, the concentration levels of the target chemical species were double-checked using liquid–liquid extraction-gas chromatography–mass spectrometry and the UV–Vis spectroscopy. The findings revealed that the contaminants in the wastewater were primarily consisted of semi-volatile organic compounds such as long-chain alkanes, aromatics, and phthalates, with the concentration of dibutyl phthalate (DBP) being 64.4 µg/L. Decent removal efficiencies of chemical oxygen demand (COD) and DBP were observed after 3-h electro-degradation, which reached 73.6% and 45.8%, respectively. Additionally, the increment of current density and initial pH showed positive effects on the DBP degradation. Additionally, high current density and low starting pH are beneficial to DBP degradation. Furthermore, the by-products were analyzed by their MS spectrums to better understand the electro-degradation process of DBP, which primarily includes phthalic acid, ethane-1,1,2-tricarboxylic acid, hydroquinone, and oxalic acid, implying that the hydroxyl radicals (·OH) produced by electrolysis oxidized DBP in this solution via three proposed degradation pathways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three new d8- and d10-configuration based 1,1′-bis-(diphenylphosphino)ferrocene (dppf) appended thiosquarates complexes with general composition [M(mtsq)2dppf] (M = Ni2+ (NiL2); Zn2+ (ZnL2) and Cd2+ (CdL2)) (mtsq = 3-ethoxycyclobutenedione-4-thiolate) have been synthesized and characterized spectroscopically as well as in case of NiL2 by single crystal X-ray diffraction technique. The single crystal X-ray analysis reveals square planar geometry around Ni(II) in NiL2, where Ni(II) coordinates with two sulfur centres of two mtsq ligands in monodentate fashion and two phosphorus of a dppf ligand in chelating mode. The supramolecular architecture of NiL2 is sustained by intermolecular C–H⋯O interactions to form one-dimensional chain. Further, the application of these newly synthesized complexes as sensitizers and co-sensitizers/co-absorbents with ruthenium based N719 sensitizer in dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) have been explored. The DSSC set-up based on NiL2 offers best photovoltaic performance with photovoltaic efficiency (η) 5.12%, short-circuit current (Jsc) 11.60 mA cm−2, open circuit potential (Voc) 0.690 V and incident photon to current conversion efficiency (IPCE) 63%. In co-sensitized DSSC set-up, ZnL2 along with state-of-the-art N719 dye displays best photovoltaic performance with η 6.65%, Jsc 14.47 mA cm−2, Voc 0.729 V and IPCE 69%, thereby showing an improvement by 15.25% in photovoltaic efficiency in comparison to the photovoltaic efficiency of N719 sensitized DSSC set-up. Variation in co-sensitization behaviour have been ascribed to the differences in the excited state energy level of co-sensitizers. The ZnL2 and CdL2 have a higher energy level position than N719 dye, allowing efficient electron transfer to N719 during light irradiation, while excited state of NiL2 is lower than N719 dye, preventing photoexcited electron transfer to N719, resulting in its lowest overall efficiency among the three co-sensitized DSSC setups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polymer blend systems offer a versatile approach for tailoring the properties of polymer materials for specific applications. In this study, we investigated the compatibility of polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) and poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) blends processed using a twin‐screw extruder, with the aim of enhancing their compatibility. Phthalic anhydride (PAn) and phthalic acid (PAc) were used as potential compatibilizers at different concentrations to improve interfacial interactions between PBT and PEG. Blend morphologies were characterized using scanning electron microscopy, which revealed improved interfacial compatibility and reduced phase separation with the incorporation of small amounts of PAn and PAc. Differential scanning calorimetry analysis indicated changes in the melting temperature (Tm) and glass transition temperature (Tg) of the blends owing to the compatibilizing effects of PAn and PAc. Dynamic mechanical analysis further corroborated the influence of the compatibilizers on the Tg and viscoelastic behavior. Thermogravimetric analysis demonstrated enhanced thermal stability with the addition of either PAn or PAc. Rheological measurements indicated an increase in complex viscosity with increasing compatibilizer content, indicating improved compatibility. The degradation point (Td) of PBT/PEG blend increased from 158 to 200 and 319°C with the incorporation of 5 phr PAn and 2 phr PAc, respectively. Mechanical properties, including tensile strength, Young's modulus, and Izod impact strength, were evaluated. For instance, the tensile strength of PBT/PEG blend was enhanced from 43.5 to 48.7 and 49.7 MPa by incorporating 5 phr PAn and 2 phr PAc, respectively. However, the impact strength of PBT/PEG blend increased from 3.0 to 4.3 and 4.2 kJ/m2 with the addition of 1 phr PAn and 1 phr PAc, respectively. The findings demonstrated that adding 5 phr PAn or 2 phr PAc to the PBT/PEG blends was advantageous, achieving a harmony of performance benefits and compromises. Rheological observations contributed significantly to the mechanical and thermal properties. Overall, the study highlights the significance of utilizing PAn and PAc as effective compatibilizers for enhancing the properties of PBT/PEG blends, making them potential candidates for various applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new hydrazone Schiff base ligand was condensed from 2-hydroxy-3-methoxybenzaldehyde and pyrimidine-4-carbohydrazide {H2L = (E)-N′-(2-hydroxy-3-methoxybenzylidene)pyrimidine-4-carbohydrazide}, which was used to assemble two new Dy2 complexes Dy2L2(DMF)2(NO3)2 (1) and Dy2L2(DMF)2(AcO)2 (2). Notably, the coordinated anions have a subtle effect on the coordination configurations of the Dy3+ ions and the magnetic properties of the two Dy2 complexes. The Dy3+ ions in 1 and 2 have the same N2O5 coordination environment but show the triangular dodecahedron and the biaugmented trigonal prism coordination configurations, respectively. Magnetic measurements revealed that both 1 and 2 have intramolecular ferromagnetic interactions between the Dy3+ ions and show single-molecule magnet behaviors at 0 Oe, with Ueff/k values of 58.2 K for 1 and 59.9 K for 2. These magnetic properties may be explained by theoretical calculations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The presence of pharmaceutical emerging contaminants (PECs) in natural waters has drawn the attention of many Scientists worldwide. Reports on the presence of these contaminants in different water systems continue to increase over the last few decades. This provokes worry about their potential negative implications to biodiversity and humans and their accumulation over a long period of time due to their ability to biotransform and thus breaks down into metabolites that can be more bioactive than the drug itself. Additionally, they can potentially create physiological effects in humans at small doses. This research involved preliminary investigations on disposal practices of expired drugs by pharmacists within Kaduna Metropolis. Water and fish samples from river Kaduna were collected and prepared for GCMS analysis to detect the presence of PECs. Preliminary investigations on disposal practices of expired drugs by pharmacists within Kaduna metropolis revealed that about 60% of the pharmacists discard their expired products by either dumping in bin or burning; 20% reported to follow National (NAFDAC) guidelines while about 20% either refused to respond or were not aware about the disposal practices. The GC-MS results obtained for water sample revealed the presence of N-(3-methylbutyl) acetamide (335 g/L), acetic acid (81 g/L) and cyclopentaneundecanoic acid (140 g/L). Whereas in fish sample, 26-nor-5-cholesten-3-beta.-ol-25-one (400 g/kg), 1,3-benzene diol (160 g/kg), cyclopentaneundecanoic acid (170 g/kg) as well as N- (3-methylbutyl) acetamide (40 g/kg) were present. Some of the compounds found in relatively lower concentrations in the water sample were phthalic acid (27 g/L), guanidine (27 g/L), gluconic acid (17 g/L) and silver acetate (0.7 g/L) while in fish sample, hydroxylamine (3 g/kg), 1,5 heptadiene (12 g/kg) and silane (4 g/kg) were present. Most of the compounds detected are either esters, acids and alcoholic compounds. Studies on PECs in Nigeria are either ignored or limited especially in Northern part of the Country despite its occurrence in different locations and different environmental compartments with variations in concentrations. This research will create awareness and expose individuals and stakeholders to the potential negative effects of these contaminants. Pharmaceutical chemicals are very broad which include solvents, water, reactants and others. They are found in different environmental compartments. Many PECs are found in both the water and fish samples. Accumulation of these contaminants over time could be deleterious to life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) were typical environmental contaminants that accumulated continuously in sediment. Microbial degradation is the main way of PAH degradation in the natural environment. Therefore, expanding the available pool of microbial resources and investigating the molecular degrading mechanisms of PAHs are critical to the efficient control of PAH-polluted sites. Here, a strain (identified as Xanthobacteraceae bacterium) with the ability to degrade pyrene was screened from the rhizosphere sediment of Vallisneria natans. Response surface analysis showed that the strain could degrade pyrene at pH 5–7, NaCl addition 0–1.5%, and temperature 25–40 °C, and the maximum pyrene degradation (~ 95.4%) was obtained under the optimum conditions (pH 7.0, temperature 28.5 °C, and NaCl-free addition) after 72 h. Also, it was observed that the effect of temperature on the degradation ratio was the most significant. Furthermore, eighteen metabolites were identified by mass spectrometry, among which (2Z)-2-hydroxy-3-(4-oxo-4H-phenalen-3-yl) prop-2-enoic acid, 7-(carboxymethyl)-8-formyl-1-naphthyl acetic acid, phthalic acid, naphthalene-1,2-diol, and phenol were the main metabolites. And the degradation pathway of pyrene was proposed, suggesting that pyrene undergoes initial ortho-cleavage under the catalysis of metapyrocatechase to form (2Z)-2-hydroxy-3-(4-oxo-4H-phenalen-3-yl) prop-2-enoic acid. Subsequently, this intermediate was progressively oxidized and degraded to phthalic acid or phenol, which could enter the tricarboxylic acid cycle. Furthermore, the pyrene biodegradation by the strain followed the first-order kinetic model and the degradation rate changed from fast to slow, with the rate remaining mostly slow in the later stages. The slow biodegradation rate was probably caused by a significant amount of phenol accumulation in the initial stage of degradation, which resulted in a decrease in bacterial activity or death. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Egyptian Journal of Botany is the property of Egyptian National Agricultural Library (ENAL) 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 complete photocatalytic degradation of dibutyl phthalate (DBP) using ferroelectric doped‐bismuth ferrite‐ (BiFeO3; BFO) graphene oxide (GO) nanocomposites is achieved. The local ferroelectric properties of doped BFO photocatalysts supported onto GO is well‐utilized for photodegradation of pollutant. A complete photodegradation of DBP under ultraviolet light irradiation is achieved within 2.5 h, traced by gas chromatography. The best photocatalytic activity of Bi0.95Ag0.05Fe0.95Mn0.05O3‐GO (ABMGO) nanocomposite is attributed to its large intrinsic local ferroelectric polarization, which suppresses the recombination of photoinduced charge carriers and the presence of Ag+ and Mn4+ as new active sites on the large surface of ABMGO speeds up the photodegradation of DBP. The possible mechanism of photodegradation of DBP is presented using mass spectrometry includes several intermediate products; phthalic acid, benzoic acid, benzaldehyde, and hydroquinone and 3‐methyl butyric acid which are harmless for the environment compared to DBP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phenanthrene, one of the polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, is stubborn and persistent and exists widely in petroleum-contaminated soil. Filamentous fungi are good assistants to bacterial transport, by hyphae passing through soil pores and reaching further positions. An isolated bacterial strain, from the contaminated soil of the coking plant, was identified as Diaphorobacter and named LW2, which could use phenanthrene as the only carbon source and energy for its growth. LW2 could degrade phenanthrene in a wide range of pH, temperature and initial concentration. When pH was 6 and 10, the removal rate of phenanthrene was 38.59% and 76.44%, respectively, and the removal rate of phenanthrene was 68.25% at 15 ℃. And LW2 could degrade 86.64% phenanthrene when the initial concentration was 100 mg L−1. The detection of DI-N-octyl phthalate, phthalic acid and p-hydroxybenzoic acid revealed that the strain LW2 metabolised phenanthrene through the phthalic acid pathway. Meanwhile, swimming and swarming test results suggested that LW2 was motile. The auxiliary effect of Pythium ultimum on LW2 migration was assessed. In the presence of Pythium ultimum, LW2 could migrate within the range of centimters by its mycelium, which was also observed by fluorescence microscopy. Meanwhile, the degradation ability of LW2 after the migration was also explored. The results proved that the migration process had no significant effect on its degradation ability, and LW2 still showed good phenanthrene metabolism ability. This study provides more possibilities for the bioremediation of phenanthrene-contaminated soil by screening the degradation bacteria and testing the effect of fungi on its migration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Free acids commonly exist in anhydride and esters because they are unstable and tend to break down into free acids, which affect the quality of subsequent products in industrial production. Phthalic anhydride and ethyl acetate undergo hydrolysis reactions to form phthalic acid and acetic acid. A differential pulse voltammetry method for the determination of phthalic acid and acetic acid was developed with a bare glassy carbon electrode. Phthalic acid and acetic acid caused a new cathodic peak at more positive potential during the reduction of 1,4‐benzoquinone in acetonitrile or aqueous solution. The new peaks are attributed to the drastic increase in pH at the electrode surface caused by the consumption of protons in the benzoquinone reduction reaction. The peak current of the new cathodic peak was dependent on the concentration of phthalic acid and acetic acid but independent of BQ, phthalic anhydride, and ethyl acetate. This method does not cause hydrolysis of anhydride and ester because no external base is introduced. Furthermore, the method is sensitive, rapid, and does not require pretreatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article reports on the synthesis of nine promising new 1,3,4-thiadiazole derivatives based on 3-aminopyridones, containing various acidic linkers. The synthesis was carried out by cyclizing the corresponding thiohydrazides 4a–c and anhydrides of glutaric, maleic, and phthalic acids upon heating in acetic acid solution. The conducted bio-screening of the synthesized new 1,3,4-thiadiazole derivatives containing different acidic linkers (butanoic, acrylic, and benzoic acids) showed that they have significant inhibitory activity against α-glucosidase (up to 95.0%), which is 1.9 times higher than the value for the reference drug acarbose (49.5%). Moreover, one of the 1,3,4-thiadiazole derivatives with a benzoic acid linker—2-(5-((6-Methyl-2-oxo-4-(thiophen-2-yl)-1,2-dihydropyridin-3-yl)carbamoyl)-1,3,4-thiadiazol-2-yl)benzoic acid (9′b)—showed an IC50 value of 3.66 mM, nearly 3.7 times lower than that of acarbose (IC50 = 13.88 mM). High inhibitory activity was also shown by 1,3,4-thiadiazole derivatives with a butanoic acid linker (compounds 7b, 7c)—with IC50 values of 6.70 and 8.42 mM, respectively. A correlation between the structure of the compounds and their activity was also established. The results of molecular docking correlated well with the bioanalytical data. In particular, the presence of a butanoic acid linker and a benzoic fragment in compounds 7b, 7c, and 9b increased their binding affinity with selected target proteins compared to other derivatives 3–6 (a–c). Calculations according to Lipinski's rule of five also showed that the synthesized compounds 7b, 7c, and 9b fully comply with Ro5 and meet all criteria for good permeability and acceptable oral bioavailability of potential drugs. These positive bioanalytical results will stimulate further in-depth studies, including in vivo models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]