In this work, a synthetic strategy based on the reaction of 5-bromo-2-(4-fluorophenyl)-4-methyl-2H-1,2,3-triazole with various thioaromatic derivatives were applied to afford a series of thioether derivatives of 1,2,3-triazole-N-oxides in yields of 52–80%. The obtained compounds were shown to be characterized by low cytotoxicity towards human embryonic kidney (HEK293) cells with IC50 values ranging from 128 to 76 µM and high toxicity towards malignant rhabdomyosarcoma cancer (Rd) cells with IC50 values ranging from 93 to 22 µM. These compounds were screened for the ability to induce nitric oxide production in cells via DAF-FM fluorescence. Several compounds demonstrated a twofold increase in nitric oxide levels relative to the control. Two leader molecules demonstrating the lowest cytotoxicity values and the effect on nitric oxide production in rhabdomyosarcoma cells were identified. Thus, the method could be considered as a convenient one for qualitative or semi-quantitative determination of nitric oxide in a screening process of large number of compounds to define lead molecules capable of influencing nitric oxide production.

This editorial continues to address the important role of graphical representations in scientific communication, emphasizing the need for accessible and effective figures. Although visualizations are crucial for presenting complex data, they are often created without considering the principles of clear data storytelling. To address this issue, we propose four new web-based applications that expand the visualization toolkit for academic authors. These tools include a versatile Heatmap Generator for matrix data, a comprehensive Min/Max Analyzer for statistical summaries, a Histogram and Distribution Visualizer for univariate and bivariate analysis, and a Speed Graph Generator for presenting performance metrics. Each application is designed with a focus on accessibility, user-centered design, and analytical precision. They allow researchers to transform raw data into compelling visual stories, enhancing both clarity and impact of their research.

The increasing demand for biodiesel has prompted the investigation of low-quality feedstocks, such as used cooking oil (UCO), as an alternative to refined vegetable oils. Nevertheless, the high free fatty acid (FFA) content, typically indicated by the acid value, in these feedstocks poses challenges in the conventional biodiesel production process using homogeneous alkaline catalysts. This study investigates the use of zeolite-based catalysts, ZSM-5 and HY, for the esterification of UCO to produce biodiesel feed. The catalysts were analyzed through techniques such as X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Brunauer-Emmett-Teller - Barrett-Joyner-Halenda (BET-BJH), and NH3-probed temperature-programmed desorption (NH3-TPD). XRD analysis revealed distinct crystal structures for the catalysts, with ZSM-5 exhibiting an orthorhombic MFI structure and HY displaying a cubic Faujasite structure. N2 physisorption analysis showed the presence of micropores and narrow mesopores in the catalysts, with HY exhibiting a peak at 2.5-5 nm pore sizes and a shoulder at 5-10 nm. NH3-TPD analysis indicated that all catalysts possess weak, moderate, and strong acid sites, with ZSM-5 having a higher acid density compared to HY. The effects of catalyst type, molar ratio, catalyst dosage, and reaction temperature on the esterification process were systematically studied. ZSM-5 demonstrated superior performance with a 61.07% FFA conversion rate, while HY achieved a slightly lower conversion rate of 57.64%. This study highlights the potential of zeolite-based catalysts in the sustainable production of biodiesel from low-grade feedstocks, contributing to the development of cost-effective and environmentally friendly processes.

PLA- and PHB-based films were plasticized with triacetin (TA), triethyl citrate (TEC), tributyl-o-acetyl citrate (TBAC) in concentrations ranging from 1 to 10 wt.%. We found that introduction of TA and TEC affected the surface of PLA films, leading to the formation of closed pores and cavities, whereas TBAC did not noticeably affect the surface. Upon plasticization, the elongation at break of PLA films increased up to 30-fold. The introduction of plasticizers caused less than a two-fold change in the values for PHB films. The plasticized PLA and PHB films were characterized by lower melting points (around 143–144 °C and 166–167 °C, respectively) compared to the non-plasticized films (147 °C and 168 °C). Following incubation in aqueous model solutions (5% sodium chloride, 2% citric acid, 0.3% lactic acid), the plasticizers gradually migrated from the films into the environment, reaching 0.0034 mg∙mg–1. This migration led to a reduction in the films' mechanical properties: at pH 6.0, the tensile strength and elongation at break decreased by a factor of 1.3–1.5, while at pH 2.6, a fivefold decrease was observed. The shelf life of chicken fillets was extended up to one week without any obvious change in sensory characteristics. The plasticizer was detected in chicken fillets at a very low concentration (approximately 2.1 µg/g) on day 3 but was no longer detectable by day 7 of the experiment.

We extend our sincere gratitude to the scientists and subject-matter experts contributing to Chimica Techno Acta for their valuable time and expertise in reviewing submitted manuscripts. Their dedicated efforts are essential in upholding the journal's rigorous peer-review standards, which are fundamental to the quality and integrity of our published research. The Editorial Board acknowledges the following reviewers...

Unsaturated γ-lactams (3-pyrrolin-2-ones) are an important class of five-membered nitrogen-containing heterocycles that play a significant role as structural motifs in numerous natural products and synthesized compounds with a wide range of biological activities. These motifs are also successfully used as intermediates in organic transformations and allow access to more diverse compounds and previously inaccessible structures. In this work, method for the synthesis of two types of novel heterocyclic compounds containing an unsaturated γ-lactam ring and two sulfur atoms was developed. Reactive and easily available substrates of 5-methoxy-2(5H)-furanone series were involved into the reactions with ammonia and benzylamine and converted into the corresponding dithioderivatives of 5-hydroxy-3-pyrrolin-2-one, difficult to access by other methods. The molecular and crystal structures of four novel sulfur-containing compounds were characterized by single-crystal X-ray diffraction. These heterocyclic systems are promising candidates for further functionalization and biological screening.

The variety of citation styles used in academic publications poses a significant formatting challenge for authors. Although reference managers (EndNote, Zotero, Mendeley, Citavi, and etc.) are essential for organizing references and creating bibliographies, they often have difficulty handling textual nuances when reformatting existing bibliographies automatically. To address this specific issue, the editorial board of Chimica Techno Acta introduces the Citation Style Constructor as a free web application designed for reformatting tasks. This tool allows users to either select a predefined citation style (GOST, ACS, RSC, or CTA) or create a completely custom format, customizing the sequence, punctuation, and typography of each bibliographic element. The program processes uploaded reference lists using advanced DOI searching and intelligent metadata analysis from Crossref, including accurate processing of journal title abbreviations, author names, manuscript titles, and page ranges. A key advantage over simple converters is the ability to export and reuse custom style settings. The output is a formatted DOCX file with preserved hyperlinks and includes integrated bibliographic analysis, providing information on the composition of the reference list. While the effectiveness of the tool depends on the quality of the source metadata, it offers a powerful and accessible solution that complements traditional reference managers. It simplifies the critical step of reformatting references for journal publications and promotes stylistic consistency and efficiency in manuscript preparation.

This study reports the fabrication and characterization of aluminum-functionalized graphene oxide (GO–Al) composite membranes for solid polymer electrolyte applications. The aim of this work is to investigate how aluminum functionalization modifies the interlayer structure of graphene oxide membranes and influences ion transport behavior. Graphene oxide was synthesized via the Tour method and functionalized with Al³⁺ ions derived from AlCl₃ at different loadings of 3.52, 14.68, and 25.93 wt%. Intercalation of trivalent aluminum ions induced an expansion of the GO interlayer spacing from 0.8125 to 0.8278 nm and promoted the conversion of epoxy (C–O–C) groups into hydroxyl (C–OH) and carboxyl (C–OOH) groups through the formation of stable Al–O–C coordination bonds. These structural modifications enhanced membrane hydrophilicity, structural stability, and ion transport capability. Raman spectroscopy revealed increased structural disorder, while thermogravimetric analysis indicated improved thermal stability with reduced total weight loss. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy demonstrated a significant enhancement in ionic conductivity from 0.282 to 0.553 S·m⁻¹, attributed to Grotthuss-type ion hopping through hydrated transport pathways. Among the investigated compositions, the GO–Al 25.93% membrane exhibited the most favorable balance between interlayer expansion, defect structure, and ionic transport performance, highlighting its potential as a solid polymer electrolyte.

The paper presents the results of the study on an electrochemical solid electrolyte sensor with a diffusion barrier for simultaneous measurements of carbon (II) oxide and moisture concentrations in the initial gaseous mixture for the carbon oxide conversion into hydrogen. The sensor is composed of two electrochemical cells made of commercial stabilized zirconium dioxide of the 90 mol.% ZrO2 +10 mol.% Y2O3 composition. One electrochemical cell performs carbon oxide content measurements in the initial gas mixture, and another cell determines the humidity of the same gas mixture. Both electrochemical cells operate in an amperometric mode. We obtained dependences of the limiting sensor current both on the carbon oxide and on the moisture concentrations in the gas mixture, as well as the temperature dependences of the limiting currents within the range of 650–750 оС. The sensor dynamic characteristics for the measurement of carbon oxide concentration and moisture at the temperature of 700 оС were obtained. The sensor possesses a satisfactory determination rate and high reproducibility at the operating temperature of 700 oС.

Betulin, a lupane-type triterpenoid, is of growing interest as an active component of veterinary and feed formulations. For such complex matrices, robust and traceable analytical methods are required to control the betulin content and ensure product quality. In this work, a simple and rapid reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) method was developed and validated for the quantitative determination of betulin in an oil-in-water emulsion-based feed additive. Chromatographic separation was performed on a C18 column using an acetonitrile–water (80:20, v/v) mobile phase in the isocratic mode at 35 °C, with a flow rate of 0.35 mL/min and UV detection at 210 nm; the total run time does not exceed 3 min. Quantification was carried out by external calibration using a certified betulin reference over the concentration range relevant to the declared product content. The method was validated in accordance with national metrological guidelines with respect to selectivity, linearity, accuracy, precision, range, and robustness. The results demonstrate excellent linearity, satisfactory precision, and recoveries close to 100%, as well as the absence of matrix interferences. The developed RP-HPLC procedure is suitable for routine quality control of the novel feed additive and can be adapted to other betulin-containing products.