Current Analytical Chemistry - Online First
Description text for Online First listing goes here...
41 - 60 of 88 results
-
-
Characterization of Lithium-containing Fly Ash Derived from Coal-fired Power Plants in Guizhou Province, China
Authors: Xiwei Mu, Longjiao Lv, Xiru Cao, Jingfeng Liu, Fayue Li, Chunying Liu, Yuting Ren, Cao Ban, Bozhi Ren, Shengjiao Xu, Zhengchuan Wu and Guocheng ZhuAvailable online: 29 January 2025More LessBackgroundCoal-fired power plants, such as those located in Guizhou, are generating substantial amounts of fly ash. This fly ash is rich in lithium, a highly valuable metal utilized in numerous industrial applications. Effective extraction of these metals necessitates a thorough understanding of their characteristics within the fly ash.
MethodsMultiple analytical techniques were used to study fly ash's physicochemical properties. Meanwhile, wet magnetic separation and acid-base methods are employed to separate its mineral phases.
ResultsThe fly ash mainly contains mullite, glass, and iron microspheres, showing spherical particle morphology. It's rich in O, Si, Al, Fe, C, and oxides like SiO2, Al2O3, Fe2O3. Most particles are smaller than 20 μm. Lithium in the ash existed as Li-O-M compounds, mainly in the non-magnetic and glass phases.
ConclusionOverall, these findings have deepened our understanding of fly ash and the distribution of lithium within it, providing a foundation for the recovery of lithium and other valuable elements.
-
-
-
Isolation of Hemolymph-derived Antifungal Product from Marine Crab Dromia dehaani
Available online: 27 January 2025More LessBackgroundCrab hemolymph are rich in medicinally important secondary metabolites.
ObjectivesThe objective of this study was to isolate, identify, and establish the crab hemolymph-derived secondary metabolites for the antifungal activity.
MethodsSeveral brachyuran crabs were investigated against 10 pathogenic strains. The disc diffusion method was used to investigate hemolymph extracts to identify potential brachyuran crabs showing antifungal activity. The moderately purified hemolymph was taken for RP-HPLC using a C-18 column. The obtained GC-MS-NIST formula/compound details were used to unveil the possible structures of obtained compounds. Individual compounds were confirmed by comparing the obtained structures with 1H NMR & 13C NMR results. The isolated Sparsomycin was subjected to a molecular docking Crystal Structure of Fungal RNA Kinase (PDB ID: 5U32).
ResultsNotably, most of the crab species in this study exhibited activity against various strains of fungi. The current findings demonstrated that the hemolymph of the crab Dromia dehaani exhibits broad-spectrum activity against pathogenic fungi. The D. dehaani showed the uppermost antimicrobial activity, and the most potent extracts obtained from the sponge crab, D. dehaani, displayed activity against several fungal organisms that included Candida albicans and Aspergillus niger. D. dehaani was selected for detailed investigations as the hemolymph of D. dehaani has the potential to be developed as an anti-microbial agent to treat infections.
ConclusionThe compounds isolated, identified, and established as antifungal agents could be the future drugs for restricting major fungal infections.
-
-
-
Comparative Analysis of Essential Oil Composition in Pinus sylvestris, Leucadendron argenteum, Impatiens balsamina and Abies sibirica
Authors: Arun Gopinath and Sangilimuthu Alagar YadavAvailable online: 24 January 2025More LessBackgroundEssential oil components play an important role in food flavoring industries and chemical industries. Essential oil from Pinus sylvestris (pine oil, scotch pine oil, Turpentine Oil), Leucadendron argenteum (silver fir needle oil), Impatiens balsamina (balsam fir needle oil), and Abies sibirica (siberianfirn needle oil) contains numerous active ingredients that help to develop drug preparation.
ObjectiveTo compare the phytoconstituents present in the essential oil of Pinus sylvestris (wood, cone, needle), Leucadendron argenteum (needle), Impatiens balsamina (needle) and Abies sibirica (needle).
MethodsThis study concentrates on analyzing the natural flavor in six essential oils of Pinus sylvestris (wood, cone, needle), Leucadendron argenteum (needle), Impatiens balsamina (needle), and Abies sibirica (needle) subjected to gas chromatography analysis with the condition of 40ºC for 2 min, 40ºC to 180ºC @ rate 15 ºC; 180ºC to 230ºC at 10ºC/min and final hold at 230ºC for 2 min. AFID detector was used.
ResultsThe results showed the presence of several organic flavoring compounds, especially terpenes and terpenoids. Alpha pinene are the major flavoring molecules present in all the selected oils with a higher percentage. Alpha pinene (60.25% and 50.37%) was found to be highest in turpentine and scotch pine oils respectively. Alpha terpineol (51.73%), limonene (34.33%), beta-pinene (36.12%), and bornyl acetate (35.94%) were found higher levels in Pinus sylvestris, Leucadendron argenteum, Impatiens balsamina and Abies sibirica respectively. Alpha-pinene, beta-pinene, alpha terpineol, beta phellandrene, alphafenchene, borneol, limonene, camphene, bornyl acetate, myrcene, and delta 3 carene are the most common phytocompounds found in the essential oils.
ConclusionAlpha pinene, beta pinene, and limonene were present in all four plants Pinus sylvestris, Leucadendron argenteum, Impatiens balsamina and Abies sibirica and also utilized in aromatherapy and the perfume industry.
-
-
-
Assessing the Removal of Ciprofloxacin from Aqueous Solutions by Basil Seed
Authors: Taj Gul, Laiq Jan, Muhammad Tariq Shah, Jehangir Khan, Kiramat Khan, Awais4, Shahab Khan, Sami Ullah, Dalia Fouad and Farid S. AtayaAvailable online: 23 January 2025More LessIntroductionThis study introduces basil seeds as a novel, low-cost, and environmentally friendly adsorbent for the removal of ciprofloxacin from aqueous solutions. The primary innovation of this work lies in the use of readily available basil seeds, which have not been widely explored for this purpose, to achieve high adsorption capacity and efficiency.
MethodThe adsorption process was systematically optimized by adjusting parameters such as time, temperature, pH, and ciprofloxacin concentration, with results showing maximum adsorption at 40 minutes, 70°C, and pH 7. Additionally, the study investigates the influence of interfering factors like competing ions and organic matter in water, providing a more realistic assessment of the material’s effectiveness.
ResultThe findings demonstrate that basil seeds offer a promising alternative to conventional adsorbents, presenting both environmental and economic advantages for water treatment applications.
ConclusionThis work significantly advances current knowledge by proposing a sustainable solution for pharmaceutical pollutant removal from contaminated water.
-
-
-
Assessment of Biochemical Markers of Bone Turnover and their Association in Iraqi Thalassemia Patients
Authors: Zainab Alhani and Mohamed BouazizAvailable online: 22 January 2025More LessBackgroundThalassemia syndromes are heterogeneous groups of inherited anemia. Managing these conditions often requires regular blood transfusions, which can lead to complications, such as iron overload and bone disorders. This study aimed to examine the biochemical markers of bone turnover in thalassemia patients and investigate their associations in the Iraqi cohort.
MethodThe study involved 45 thalassemia patients and 45 healthy control subjects. Fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF-23), phosphorus, vitamin D, vitamin K, matrix Gla protein (MGP), and parathyroid hormone (PTH) were measured by ELISA kit, and the level of calcium ion was determined by atomic absorption spectrometry technique.
ResultsThe results demonstrated that the levels of FGF-23 and phosphorus were considerably higher in patients with thalassemia than in control (p=0.0001**). Conversely, the levels of vitamin D (p=0.005**), vitamin K (p=0.0002**), MGP (p=0.0003**), and PTH (p=0.0001**) were significantly lower in thalassemia patients compared to control subjects. Furthermore, no significant difference in calcium levels between the two groups (p-value = 0.465) was observed. The association of bone biochemical markers demonstrated that FGF-23 has a positive significant correlation with phosphorous and is inversely correlated with vitamin D, PTH, vitamin K, and MGP. Moreover, PTH has a positive significant correlation with vitamin D, vitamin K, and MGP. However, it has a significant negative correlation with PTH and phosphorous.
ConclusionThese findings show that patients with thalassemia display biochemical markers associated with bone and cardiovascular disorders, indicating the need for specialized medical treatments for this patient population.
-
-
-
Microbial Communities in Coastal Salt Marshes Along the Southeast Coast of China and their Effects on Carbon Storage
Authors: Chunguang Lv, Yan Li, Huining Zhang, Chenyi Wang, Min Ren and Chiqian ZhangAvailable online: 22 January 2025More LessBackgroundWetlands are vital carbon sinks, with coastal salt marshes being particularly effective in carbon sequestration. Understanding how different vegetation types influence soil carbon storage and microbial composition can enhance our knowledge of these ecosystems’ roles in global carbon cycling.
MethodsThis study investigates soil physicochemical properties, soil carbon storage, and microbial community composition and diversity at three depths (10, 30, and 60 cm) in five salt marsh plots from five coastal salt marshes: Bare flat (a non-vegetated marsh) and plots dominated by Imperata cylindrica, Solidago canadensis, Suaeda spp., and Phragmites australis. Carbon storage was evaluated by measuring soil organic carbon (SOC) content. At the same time, high-throughput sequencing was employed to analyze microbial communities, aiming to elucidate their relationships with soil carbon storage and wetland vegetation.
ResultsThe average SOC contents in the five plots were in the order of S. canadensis (13.33 g·kg–1) > Bare flat (11.45 g·kg–1) > Suaeda spp. (8.10 g·kg–1) > I. cylindrica (6.15 g·kg–1) > P. australis (5.80 g·kg–1). S. canadensis and Bare flat marshes had the highest carbon content, which is mainly attributed to the presence of the most abundant carbon-fixation microbes, Fulvivirgaceae (family) and Acidobacteria RB41 (genus), in the soil of these two plots. Both organic and dissolved organic carbon contents at 10 cm were higher than those at the other two depths for all five marshes.
ConclusionThe Bare flat exhibited strong carbon sequestration capability, second only to the invasive S. canadensis plot among the five plots surveyed. It also showed the highest microbial abundance and the greatest number of carbon-sequestration-related functional genes. The S. canadensis plot exhibited the lowest microbial community diversity and abundance despite having the highest carbon storage capacity. As an invasive species, S. canadensis should be removed to mitigate its ecological impact.
-
-
-
Physicochemical, Pharmacognostical, Phytochemical, Heavy Metal and Pesticidal Residue Analysis of Angelica glauca Edgew roots: An Approach to Establish Quality Standards Using Advanced Analytical Techniques
Authors: Arun Kumar Mishra and Sarvesh Kumar PaliwalAvailable online: 20 January 2025More LessBackgroundAngelica glauca (AG) (family Apiaceae) is used by tribes as a spice and to treat various diseases. Before consumption, effective measures must be used for quality control tests. This study establishes quality standards for A. glauca. The study analyses A. glauca roots for physico-chemical, pharmacognostic, phytochemical, heavy metals, pesticidal residue, microbial load, and aflatoxin.
MethodsThe standard procedure was used for powder microscopy and physiochemical parameters. Multiple culture media were used to measure microbial load. Aflatoxins were estimated using HPLC. Mercury, arsenic, lead, cadmium, chromium, and nickel were estimated using graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry. To identify 87 pesticide residues in A. glauca roots, LC-MS was used.
ResultsOn root powder microscopy, parenchymatous cells packed with yellow material, capillaries with reticulate thickenings, and simple oval to circular starch grains were found. Foreign matter, LOD, total ash, and extractive values were all within range. Salmonela, Pseudomnas, and Coliform (E. coli) were absent. The total viable aerobic bacterial count was 1.14 x 103 cfu/ml, compared to 1.0 x 105 permitted. Aflatoxins were absent in all samples. Heavy metal levels met the FSSR 2011 maximum residue standard for foods not specified. All 87 pesticides in the crude sample were below detection limits, indicating the safety and quality of the A. glauca root sample.
ConclusionThe current findings can be utilized in quality control procedures and to assess the quality of A. glauca samples before incorporating them into formulations. Phytochemical tests, heavy metal analysis, and pesticide residue contents can be used to assess quality before using A. glauca raw materials.
-
-
-
Sorption Preconcentration of Heavy Metals on Graphene Oxide for Analysis of Waters by Electrothermal Vaporization ICP-OES
Available online: 20 January 2025More LessBackgroundHeavy metals (HMs) such as Cr, Hg, Pb, etc., are major threats to human health due to their toxic and carcinogenic properties. So, the determination of HMs concentrations in waters is an actual and important task.
MethodsIn this paper, the method includes a preliminary concentration of HMs and other analytes (Ag, Au, Ba, Be, Bi, Cr, Hg, In, Pb, Sn, and Zn) from water solutions on the graphene oxide and subsequent analysis of slurries of sorbent by electrothermal vaporization inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ETV-ICP-OES) is developed for the first time.
ResultsThe high efficiency of analytes sorption on graphene oxide made it possible to significantly increase the sensitivity of the analysis. The limits of detection of Ag, Au, Ba, Be, Bi, Cr, Hg, In, Pb, Sn, and Zn from 0.7 to 300 ng L-1 are achieved for ETV-ICP-OES analysis. The use of electrothermal vaporization for sample introduction allows the analysis of sorbent suspensions and avoids the desorption stage, reduces sample dilution, increases the preconcentration factor, and improves limits of detection (LODs) of analytes by 2-33 times compared to routine inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry analysis (ICP-OES) with sorption preconcentration.
ConclusionFor Ba, Be, Bi, Cr, In, Pb, Sn, and Zn ETV-ICP-OES provides LODs from 2 to 33 times lower compared to conventional ICP-OES analysis with sorption preconcentration due to higher preconcentration factor and transport efficiency of introducing of the analytes concentrates into the ICP. The developed method was applied to the analysis of real tap and mineral water samples. The results of analysis by ETV-ICP-OES with preconcentration of trace elements and ICP-OES were in good agreement. As a result of lower LODs of analytes, ETV-ICP-OES analysis provides the determination of concentrations of Ba, Bi, Sn, and Pb in tap and mineral water samples.
-
-
-
Potentiometric Ion-selective Electrode for the Determination of Antazoline in Different Formulations and Biological Fluids Using Biomimetic Receptors
Authors: Ola G. Hussein, Yasmin Rostom, Amr M. Mahmoud, Mohamed Abdelkawy, Mamdouh R. Rezk and Dina A. AhmedAvailable online: 16 January 2025More LessBackgroundTraditional analysis techniques usually involve separation and pre-treatment steps prior to analysis, resulting in time and solvent consumption. In contrast, a potentiometric ion selective electrode is a simple, environmentally friendly, and cost-effective technique that is used as an alternative analytical technique, utilizing the efficacy of potentiometric sensors used in stability research and quality control investigations.
MethodsAn innovative Antazoline selective membrane sensor was constructed and evaluated to detect Antazoline in its pure form, eye drop formulations, degradation products, and biological fluid. Sensor fabrication was achieved using potassium tetrakis borate and polyvinyl chloride polymeric matrix plasticized with 2-nitrophenyl octyl ether and using calix[8]arene (CX8) as an ionophore. A comparative potentiometric study was implemented using two sensors, one using an ionophore and the other lacking the ionophore.
ResultsLinear responses of Antazoline were obtained utilizing sensors 1 and 2 in concentration ranges of 1.0×10-2 to 1.0×10-7 mole/L and 1.0×10-2 to 1.0×10-6 mole/L, correspondingly. Nernstian slopes of 58.486 and 51.2 mV/decade over pH 8.0 were attainted using 1 and 2 sensors, respectively.
ConclusionThe proposed method was applied to determine antazoline without any need for any pretreatment or separation steps in both formulated eye drops Trillerg® sterile ophthalmic solution and Otrivine- Antistin® Eye Drops as well as in rabbit aqueous humor and the presence of its degradation products. Estimation of the method's greenness was confirmed using several assessment tools.
-
-
-
Cd2+ Mediated AuNCs for Simultaneous Detection of L-cysteine and Homocysteine
Authors: Huiru Zheng, Yi Xiao, Shengda Qi and Honglin ZhaiAvailable online: 15 January 2025More LessBackgroundL-cysteine (L-Cys) and homocysteine (Hcy) are the most representative of biothiol, which exist widely in organisms. L-Cys is one of the essential amino acids, which can be absorbed from protein-rich food and plays a considerable role in various physiological processes. Hcy is a vital intermediate in normal mammalian metabolism of methionine but does not occur in the diet. Therefore, it is significant to exploit a rapid and sensitive strategy to measure L-Cys and Hcy.
MethodsHerein, we designed an “on-on” fluorescent platform for detecting L-Cys and Hcy with gold nanoclusters (AuNCs) as probes. During the sensing process, cadmium ions (Cd2+) acted as mediating substances to connected AuNCs and L-Cys (or Hcy), and triggered aggregation-induced emission (AIE) effect.
ResultsThe linear ranges achieved with fluorimetry of L-Cys and Hcy were 0.1-10.0 μM and 0.1-20.0 μM, respectively. Moreover, this fluorescent probe was successfully used to determine the L-Cys concentration in actual samples, and showed excellent recovery.
ConclusionFurthermore, the mechanism for sensing L-Cys and Hcy has been exhaustively investigated.
-
-
-
Optimizing Pregnancy-related Nausea: Central Composite Design for Fast Relief Buccal Films
Authors: Ankita Wal, Dhruv Dev, M M Rekha, Rohit Kumawat, Manmeet Singh, M Ravi Kumar and Pranay WalAvailable online: 15 January 2025More LessBackgroundNausea and vomiting are common responses to various factors like gastrointestinal disorders, motion sickness, pregnancy, medications, infections, and severe pain. Treatment includes antiemetic medications, hydration, dietary adjustments, rest, and, in severe cases, medical intervention to address underlying causes.
ObjectiveThe present research aims at formulating buccal Promethazine with polymers like HPMCE15 and sodium alginate hence relief from the condition of nausea and vomiting in pregnancy.
MethodsA variety of PMT buccal films (PBF), comprising varying HPMC E15 and sodium alginate, incorporating PMT (25 mg) in keeping with the method recommended via Design Expert Software, have been fabricated using the solvent casting approach. The design expert software 11.0 trial version was used for statistical analysis of the responses.
ResultsThe results showed PMT's compatibility with excipients, preserving the drug's functional groups. The films were neutral, and flexible, with uniform thickness and good swelling, especially in sodium alginate-rich films. They had consistent drug content, and mucoadhesion time and strength increased with HPMC E15 concentration. In vitro tests revealed a 40% burst release in 10 minutes, followed by varied release rates based on polymer composition.
ConclusionThe optimized buccal films showed greater flexibility and a promising balance between swelling, which is necessary for drug release, and mucoadhesion, which prolongs mucosal contact. The buccal films' optimized features suggest that controlled and prolonged release could improve Promethazine absorption and therapeutic efficacy. The ease of administration and longer mucosal retention period may improve patient compliance and experience.
-
-
-
Impact of the Extraction Method and Solvent on the Phenolic Compound Content and Antioxidant Potential of the Aerial Part of Ephedra altissima: In vitro and In silico Studies
Available online: 13 January 2025More LessBackgroundDespite the widespread use of Ephedra altissima plant in traditional Algerian medicine, the biological potential of this species has still not been well explored.
ObjectiveThis study, for the first time, focused on determining the effect of extraction methods and solvents on the phenolic content and antioxidant ability of the aerial part of Ephedra altissima.
MethodsExtraction was carried out by maceration and Soxhlet using the solvents H2O, Methanol/H2O and Petroleum ether. The chemical profile of E. altissima was determined by a qualitative HPLC/UV–Visible, and the antioxidant potential was evaluated by in vitro and in-silico studies.
ResultsThe aqueous extract obtained by maceration exhibited the greatest total phenol content, while the petroleum ether prepared by Soxhlet extraction demonstrated the highest total flavonoid and condensed tannin contents. The HPLC profile showed the presence of a variety of phenolic compounds. The in-vitro assay results indicated good antioxidant potential. Gallic acid and sinapic acid were highlighted as the most potent antioxidants in the Soxhlet hydro-methanolic and petroleum ether extracts, respectively, according to the machine learning model. Molecular docking predicted the possible antioxidant potential of E. altissima phytocompounds by the interaction with human peroxiredoxin 5, and epicatechin was the most effective ligand. Molecular dynamics simulations confirmed the stability of the epicatechin-Prdx5 complex. Multivariate analysis was used to categorize the Ephedra altissima extracts into three groups according to their phenolic compound content and in vitro antioxidant ability.
ConclusionOverall, the results of the present study revealed that the choice of solvent and extraction technique directly influence the biomolecule content and bioactivity of Ephedra altissima aerial part extracts.
-
-
-
Poly-(2-aminothiophenol) Functionalized Petroleum Coke for Fast Simultaneous Sequestration of Cd(II) and Pb(II) Ions from Industrial Effluents
Authors: Amr A. Yakout, Sultan G. Almalki and Wael H. AlshitariAvailable online: 13 January 2025More LessBackgroundNowadays, the challenge between clean water production and promoting an eco-friendly sorbent for the simultaneous fast and efficient removal of heavy metal ions is a hot topic and has attracted much attention.
ObjectiveThe objective of this study was to fabricate a novel material (PATP@PET) by incorporating poly-(2-amino thiophenol; PATP) into the matrix of Saudi Arabian petroleum coke (PET) for simultaneous fast and efficient removal of heavy metal ions.
MethodThe FTIR, EDX, SEM, and XRD techniques assessed the chemical structure and surface morphology of the thio-functionalized petcoke. The effects of medium pH, mass dosage of sorbent, metal ion concentration, and coexisting ions were investigated and optimized using batch sorption.
ResultThe excellent sorption capacity of PATP@PET sorbent towards the divalent lead and cadmium ions (98.44% and 312.5 mg.g-1 for Pb(II) and 90.15% and 217.4 mg.g-1 for Cd(II)) was realized by strong complex formation with the sulfur atoms of green petcoke and the thiol groups of poly-2-aminothiophenol moieties. The adsorption equilibrium data was best fitted to the pseudo-second-order kinetic model and Langmuir adsorption isotherm. The reusability performance was tested for 10 cycles, and the simultaneous removal of Pb(II) and Cd(II) ions from industrial effluents was accomplished in 30 minutes with 100% removal efficiency at pH 6-7.
ConclusionPTAP-PET also demonstrated amazing performance for Cd(II) and Pb(II) removal in industrial wastewater samples. Subsequently, PTAP-PET contributes to developing fast, efficient, low-cost water remediation solutions for heavy metal ions that can potentially be translated into industrial-scale applications.
-
-
-
Assessment of the Physicochemical, Microbial Quality, and Consumer’s Perceptions Regarding Packaged Milk Available in the Local Markets of Karachi, Pakistan
Authors: Rafat Amin, Haadia Tauseef, Arooba Aziz, Sadaf Khan, Tehseen Fatima and Hira Fatima WaseemAvailable online: 10 January 2025More LessBackgroundMilk, an essential part of diet is comprised of all indispensable nutrients. However, it proves to be beneficial only if it is available in its pure form.
ObjectiveThe current study aimed to evaluate packaged milk samples collected from local markets of Karachi and to assess level of consumer awareness about health risks associated with substandard milk consumption.
MethodsPackage milk samples were assessed collectively for physical parameters, and microbial load. Seventeen colour-based chemical tests were also conducted to detect different dyes, preservatives, and other added chemicals as adulterants in milk. A household-based community survey was conducted to evaluate consumer’s preferences regarding packaged milk consumption.
Results97% of tested milk samples were observed to have added solids and water in them. Chemical adulterants in tetra packaged milk were detected in order of Glucose > cane sugar, Vegetable fat > Formalin, >Artificial colour > Neutralizer > Detergent >Urea, Annatto dye > starch. For the household-based survey, a total of 266 respondents were interviewed. Although 61.7% of respondents preferred pasteurized milk, potential customer satisfaction with the quality of pasteurized milk was 74.4%. Multivariate analysis showed that customer satisfaction regarding pasteurized milk was significantly associated with the preference of customer [Odds Ratio (OR)=4.18, p=0.004], buying factors like price, offers, and discounts (OR=6.92, p=0.014), quality and availability (OR=4.81, p=0.003), and experienced negative health effects (OR=0.26, p=0.002).
ConclusionThe study concluded that more than 70% of the packaged milk samples were adulterated with detergents, artificial flavors and glucose which signify the compromised quality of the packaged milk and their products. Strict regular quality checks should be established and closely monitored by regulatory authorities and the government.
-
-
-
Colorimetric Determination of Ascorbic Acid Using Peroxidase Activity of Allium Sativum (Garlic) Extract
Authors: Maryam Saadat, Jamal Hallajzadeh, Elhameh Nikkhah and Sadegh SeidiAvailable online: 10 January 2025More LessBackgroundDetection and determination of ascorbic acid (AA) or vitamin C as a potent antioxidant substrate in commercial samples have an emerging significance. In relation to the colorimetry of ascorbic acid, the use of organometallic networks as enzyme peroxidase mimics has been reported many times, which is not cost-effective for commercialization. Therefore, this research, for the first time, examined the peroxidase behavior using garlic extract without additional extraction and purification steps. Peroxidase behavior was examined to measure ascorbic acid.
MethodsIn this research work, firstly, allium sativum (AS) extract was prepared simply by crushing, stirring, and sonicating garlic bulbs in water. It exhibited peroxidase activity, which enabled the oxidation of 3, 30, 5, and 50-tetramethylbenzidine (TMB) in the presence of H2O2 to generate blue-colored oxidized TMB (ox-TMB) with a sharp absorption peak at 6526 nm. In continuation, the ox-TMB could be reduced by the addition of AA to the TMB+H2O2 system, leading to a decrease in absorbance and the fading of the blue color. Determination performance was accomplished after optimization of several factors, such as pH, time, TMB, and AS concentration.
ResultsThe results showed that the decrease in absorbance (ΔA) after AA addition was in a good linear relationship with AA concentration in the range of 9.46-155.24 µM, with a low detection limit of 0.0223 µM. The feasibility of this approach was also assayed in commercial orange drinks and effervescent tablets of vitamin C with a 97.70%-110.17% recovery.
ConclusionFinally, a sensitive and simple colorimetric sensor for the detection of AA using AS extract as a biocatalyst was developed.
-
-
-
FRET-based Ratiometric Fluorescent Probes for Enzyme Detection: Current Insight
Authors: Janhavi Rathod and Atul SherjeAvailable online: 10 January 2025More LessOver the decade many types of fluorescent sensors have been developed for detecting diverse types of analyte. The sensors developed using the phenomenon of fluorescence provide high sensitivity, selectivity, for the analyte that they are being developed for. This has led to a huge increase in development of sensors for biomarkers that are particularly of importance for early detection or diagnosis of life threatening diseases. In addition to the advantages of Fluorimetry there is continuous research going on to create sensors that are easy to construct, reproducible, cost and time efficient, along with maintaining sensitivity enough for accurate determination of the analyte of interest. As the research advanced, the dyes used as simple sensors were replaced with other molecules as a substrate for biomarker or other analyte sensing. Additionally, early scientists used single emission sensors for detection of analyte. Further, the single emission sensors were evolved to dual emission and then further advancement led to innovation of ratiometric sensors. These ratiometric sensors provide good internal standard referencing system which gives them good sensitivity as compared to other luminescent sensors. Through this review we aim to provide useful information on the subject of FRET, ratiometric fluorescence analysis, the types of materials used for developing the sensors and examples of biosensors used for enzyme detection.
-
-
-
Modeling for Copper Recovery from E-Waste by Using Machine Learning Technique: An Approach for the Circular Economy
Authors: Sunil Kumar Srivastava and Rahul ShrivastavaAvailable online: 07 January 2025More LessBackgroundCopper, a precious metal in e-waste, presents a substantial economic opportunity. The study estimates that ~322000 tons of copper are discarded annually worldwide as e-waste. Given the significant financial value of copper, its recovery from e-waste is beneficial and crucial. This process also plays a pivotal role in waste management and recycling hazardous waste. The potential reduction in e-waste in landfills is a direct result of this strategic approach to waste management, offering a more sustainable and optimistic outlook for the future. This research paves the way for a future where e-waste is no longer a burden on our environment.
MethodologyThis study is structured around a robust two-step process. It begins with an experiment focused on copper recovery using hydrometallurgical methods. The modeling leverages the power of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning techniques to predict copper recovery from e-waste. This innovative approach not only promises but also has the potential to revolutionize the field of copper recovery, inspiring further innovation and progress.
ResultsThe model was developed using an Artificial Neural Network (ANN) and a Boosting Algorithm (BA). Based on four crucial variables (H2SO4, H2O2, Solid/Liquid ratio, and Reaction Time), this model provides a comprehensive understanding of Cu recovery. H2SO4 is a crucial component during the leaching process; H2O2 facilitates Cu oxidation, the Solid/Liquid ratio affects the efficiency, and Reaction Time determines the completion of the process. The ANN and BA-based models yield satisfactory results in Cu recovery, achieving over 94% yield under optimized conditions.
ConclusionThe model developed in this study can potentially revolutionize copper recovery. By automating the process, we can significantly reduce the stress of copper mining, which relieves the environment. We can also promote a circular economy, offering a promising future for sustainable copper recovery. This could be a game-changer in the field of waste management and recycling.
-
-
-
Preparation of Photoelectrodes of Pd/Ag/TiO2 NTs and Photoelectrocatalytic Degradation of Tylosin
Authors: Haina Bai, Guangqin Ren, Congze Liu, Xinyan Wang, Jian Zhang and Rui LiAvailable online: 07 January 2025More LessIntroductionIn this study, aiming to solve the problem of difficult recovery of powder catalysts in the treatment of antibiotic wastewater by photocatalytic technology, titanium dioxide nanotubes (TiO2 NTs) photoelectrodes were prepared on titanium sheet substrates by anodic oxidation method.
MethodsThe precious metals Pd and Ag were introduced to be co-deposited, which realized the effective transfer of photogenerated electrons between the semiconductor and the precious metals and remarkably improved the photoelectrocatalytic activity of the photoelectrodes.
ResultsThe experimental results showed that the prepared Pd/Ag/TiO2 NTs composite photoelectrode achieved a removal efficiency of 79.51% for tylosin (TYL) within 240 min, which was significantly better than that of the pure TiO2 NTs (1.42-fold) and Ag/TiO2 NTs (1.05-fold) photoelectrodes. Electrochemical analyses demonstrated that the loading of Ag and Pd on the surface of TiO2 NTs can effectively promote the transport and separation of photogenerated charge carriers, thus improving the photoelectrocatalytic performance. In addition, the degradation process of TYL and the dynamic changes of intermediates were deeply analyzed with the help of three-dimensional fluorescence spectroscopy (3D EEMs) and two-dimensional correlation spectroscopy (2DCOS) techniques.
ConclusionThis study provides not only an expanded application of solid catalysts in photoelectrocatalytic treatment of antibiotic wastewater but also new insights for further investigation of the co-deposition of precious metals to improve photoelectrodes.
-
-
-
Jellyfish Collagen as a Promising Source for Nutraceutical and Biomedical Applications
Authors: Saira James and Supriya TilviAvailable online: 07 January 2025More LessJellyfish blooms have become increasingly common worldwide, driven by climate change, eutrophication, and the jellyfish’s unique life cycle. The rich protein derived from these resources notably, jellyfish collagen (JFC) and its hydrolysates (JFCH) peptides stands out as promising, sustainable alternatives to traditional collagen sources like bovine and rat tail collagen. Notably, JFC carries a reduced risk of prion and viral contamination, making it a safer option for diverse applications. As a fundamental collagen form, JFC is compatible with various cell types, enhancing its utility across multiple domains. Furthermore, JFCH peptides act as potent bioactive ingredients, especially in the food industry, where their high antioxidant properties are valued in nutraceutical formulations. Immunological research also suggests that JFC can promote immunoglobulin production and stimulate cytokine synthesis, revealing its potential for immune system support. Due to its versatility, JFC can facilitate the growth of various human cell types, positioning it as an effective biomaterial for wound care, tissue engineering, cartilage regeneration, drug delivery, and cell culture applications. This review highlights recent advancements in JFC and JFCH applications across nutraceuticals, immunology, wound healing, tissue engineering, and regenerative medicine in —those not extensively covered in previous literature.
-
-
-
Next Generation Diagnostics: Exploring the Potential of Microfluidic Devices
Available online: 06 January 2025More LessIn recent years, microfluidics systems have emerged as powerful tools for biological analysis, integrating entire analytics protocols into a single chip platform. This article aims to review recent developments in microfluidics systems for diagnostics applications, focusing on genes, proteins, and cells. By categorizing fluids- manipulating mechanisms and biological detection approaches, the articles provide an in-depth discussion of microfluidics-based diagnostics systems, including materials and manufacturing techniques. The integration of microfluidics systems with diagnostics shows promise for the development of practical point- of-care devices. The identification and monitoring of Variants of Concern (VOCs) and Variants of Interest (VOIs) by WHO have significant implications for diagnostics, public health measures, and vaccine development. Continuous, sequencing and adaptation of diagnostic tests are essential for managing the impact of variants on diagnostics and public health measures while advancing vaccine research and development.
-