Acid Value Research Articles

Similarity Analysis of Computer-Generated and Commercial Libraries for Targeted Biocompatible Coded Amino Acid Replacement

Many non-natural amino acids can be incorporated by biological systems into coded functional peptides and proteins. For such incorporations to be effective, they must not only be compatible with the desired function but also evade various biochemical error-checking mechanisms. The underlying molecular mechanisms are complex, and this problem has been approached previously largely by expert perception of isomer compatibility, followed by empirical study. However, the number of amino acids that might be incorporable by the biological coding machinery may be too large to survey efficiently using such an intuitive approach. We introduce here a workflow for searching real and computed non-natural amino acid libraries for biosimilar amino acids which may be incorporable into coded proteins with minimal unintended disturbance of function. This workflow was also applied to molecules which have been previously benchmarked for their compatibility with the biological translation apparatus, as well as commercial catalogs. We report the results of scoring their contents based on fingerprint similarity via Tanimoto coefficients. These similarity scoring methods reveal candidate amino acids which could be substitutable into modern proteins. Our analysis discovers some already-implemented substitutions, but also suggests many novel ones.

Analysis and Characterization of Pericopsis mooniana Seed Oil for Potential Applications in Cosmetics and Nutritional Supplements

Pericopsis mooniana is renowned for wood applications, while its bark and leaves find uses in ayurvedic medicine. The shifting of global cosmetic and nutritional supplement industries towards plant-based oils has led to explore novel sources. No prior studies were done on P. mooniana seed oil. Therefore this study aims to characterize the seed oil of P. mooniana by determining Fatty Acids (FA) composition as their methyl esters, nonpolar constituents in unsaponifiable matter, and other physio-chemcial properties. The oil was extracted using the soxhlet extraction method. Ash and moisture contents of seeds, Acid Value (AV), Iodine Value (IV), smoke point and thermal stability of oil were also determined. Prepared fatty acid methyl esters and chemical constituents in unsaponifiable matter were identified and quantified using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry method. Results indicated a substantial oil yield of 36.71± 0.01% with moisture content of 5.60 ± 0.19%, ash content of 3.65 ± 0.38%, AV of 2.97 ± 0.40 mg KOH/g, IV of 16.02 ± 0.14 g I2/100g, smoke point of 233.6 ± 8.57°C, decomposition temperature of 409.95 ± 1.74°C and yield of unsaponifiable matter of 1.35 ± 0.01%. The dominant FAs are oleic (41.02%) and linoleic (38.12%) acids. Major unsaponifiable matter constituents are squalene (4.01 mg/g), beta.-sitosterol (2.63 mg/g), stigmasterol (1.23 mg/g), phytol (1.45 mg/g), geranylgeraniol (1.03 mg/g) and amyrin (0.95 mg/g). Based on the finding of this study, it can be concluded that P. mooniana seed oil has the potential to be utilized in both cosmetic and nutritional supplement industries.

Structural diversity and distribution of NMCP-class nuclear lamina proteins in streptophytic algae.

Nuclear Matrix Constituent Proteins (NMCPs) in plants function like animal lamins, providing the structural foundation of the nuclear lamina and regulating nuclear organization and morphology. Although they are well-characterized in angiosperms, the presence and structure of NMCPs in more distantly related species, such as streptophytic algae, are relatively unknown. The rapid evolution of NMCPs throughout the plant lineage has caused a divergence in protein sequence that makes similarity-based searches less effective. Structural features are more likely to be conserved compared to primary amino acid sequence; therefore, we developed a filtration protocol to search for diverged NMCPs based on four physical characteristics: intrinsically disordered content, isoelectric point, number of amino acids, and the presence of a central coiled-coil domain. By setting parameters to recognize the properties of bona fide NMCP proteins in angiosperms, we filtered eight complete proteomes from streptophytic algae species and identified strong NMCP candidates in six taxa in the Classes Zygnematophyceae, Charophyceae, and Klebsormidophyceae. Through analysis of these proteins, we observed structural variance in domain size between NMCPs in algae and land plants, as well as a single block of amino acid conservation. Our analysis indicates that NMCPs are absent in the Mesostigmatophyceae. The presence versus absence of NMCP proteins does not correlate with the distribution of different forms of mitosis (e.g., closed/semi-closed/open) but does correspond to the transition from unicellularity to multicellularity in the streptophytic algae, suggesting that an NMCP-based nucleoskeleton plays important roles in supporting cell-to-cell interactions.

Composition of the Low Molecular Weight Metabolome of Potamogeton perfoliatus (Potamogetonaceae) as an Indicator of the Transformation of the Ecological State of the Littoral Zone

The composition and nature of changes in the low-molecular-weight metabolome (NM) of Potamogeton perfoliatus L., growing in 6 biotopes of Lake Ladoga with different types of the anthropogenic load has been analyzed. According to the research results, it was found that the total number of low molecular weight organic compounds (LMWOCs) in the P. perfoliatus NM composition is directly dependent on anthropogenic load, which is well marked by the development of cyanobacteria. The greater the intensity of pollution or eutrophication of waters, or the higher the number of cyanobacteria, the lower the total number of LMWOCs and their concentration. A strongly pronounced dependence of the total concentrations of groups of NM compounds on the anthropogenic disturbance of the biotope and the concentration of cyanobacteria was revealed. A decrease in the number, relative amount, total concentration of carboxylic acids, number and content of unsaturated fatty acids, and, at the same time, an increase in the composition and content of phenols and the total content of aldehydes and ketones depends on an increase in anthropogenic pressure. The specific composition of NM of pierced pondweed depends on its response to biotic and abiotic factors of the aquatic environment, including anthropogenic ones. The revealed features of the change in the composition of P. perfoliatus NM make it possible to use it as an integral indicator of the anthropogenic impact on the littoral biotopes of water bodies and the deterioration of their ecological state.

Phyotochemical Analysis of Bridelia scandens Willd a folk lore herbal drug a Review

Analytical study deals with the modern pharmaceutical analysis of the leaves of the drug. Here, organoleptic characters, physico-chemical parameters, UV spectrophotometric study, chromatographic study which were carried out for the standardization of both leaf powder and leaf oil samples are documented. The leaf powder sample of the plant yielded moisture, 10.1`%, ash, 6.65%, water soluble extractive 16.5% and methanol soluble extractive 22.3%. Whereas the leaf oil sample showed specific gravity 0.9650; refractive index 1.473; acid value 1.17; saponification value 241.4; ester value 240.23 and unsaponifiable matter 0.55%. UV spectrophotometric study of the leaf powder sample showed three absorptions peaks: the absorption being maximum at 218 nm followed by 272 nm and 666 nm. The spectra of the unsaponifiable matter of the leaf oil sample also showed three absorption peaks at 209 nm, 235 nm and 287 nm. Comparison of these two spectra reveals that their pattern is different. The chromatogram of both the samples obtained in day light showed 8 spots in the leaf powder sample and no spots in the other sample. On viewing under short wave UV radiation, the leaf powder sample revealed 3 spots and the other sample 2 spots. Among the spots the spot at Rf 0.66 was present in both the samples. After exposing to Iodine vapour almost all the spots viewed in day light were revealed in the first sample and 5 spots were found in the second sample. On spraying with vanillin sulphuric acid 6 spots were revealed in leaf powder sample and 5 spots in second sample. Among these 2 spots at Rf 0.46 and 0.66 were common in both the samples.

Volatile constituents, physicochemical properties and antibacterial activity of black and fresh garlic (Allium sativum L.)

Black garlic is produced from fresh garlic by heat treatment at a controlled temperature and humidity for a certain period of time. The processing conditions are responsible for a series of changes in the plant material that culminate in the alteration of its physicochemical and bioactive properties. This study evaluated the physicochemical properties of fresh and black garlic, as well as the chemical composition and antibacterial activity of their essential oils. Regarding the physicochemical parameters evaluated, there was a significant difference in all parameters, showing that black garlic bulbs had a lower pH, water activity, and L* and b* parameters and higher values of ash, acidity and proteins. The chemical characterization of the essential oils from two batches of fresh garlic (FG1 and FG2) and two batches of black garlic (BG1 and BG2) was carried out using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry and gas chromatography-flame ionization detector. In the case of fresh garlic essential oil, diallyl disulfide and diallyl trisulfide represented more than 70% of the chemical composition of the two batches evaluated. For black garlic essential oils, 4-methyl-1,2,3-trithiolane and 5-methyl-1,2,3,4-tetrathiolane were the main components. Both fresh and black garlic essential oils have been shown to be rich in organosulfur compounds. As for antimicrobial activity, the black garlic essential oil showed greater inhibitory and bactericidal potential against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa compared to fresh garlic. The black garlic essential oils evaluated are more promising for the microbiological control of food bacteria than those from fresh garlic.

Oral exposure to high concentrations of polystyrene microplastics alters the intestinal environment and metabolic outcomes in mice

IntroductionOral exposure to microplastics (MPs) is a global health concern. In our previous study, MPs induced glucose intolerance and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) under a high-fat diet-induced leaky gut syndrome (LGS). This study aims to evaluate the effects of high concentrations of MP on lipid metabolism under normal dietary conditions and to assess the changes in the intestinal tract resulting from MP exposure.MethodsC57BL6/J mice were fed a normal diet (ND) without polystyrene MPs (PS-MPs) or with PS-MPs (1000 µg/L or 5000 µg/L) for six weeks. Subsequently, intestinal permeability, gut microbiota, and metabolite levels in the serum, feces, and liver were determined.ResultsMice fed the ND showed no increase in intestinal permeability in either group. However, high MPs concentrations led to increased serum lipid levels and exacerbated fatty liver function. Oral exposure to MPs did not affect the number of innate lymphoid cells or short-chain fatty acids in the intestine. However, it increased the number of natural killer cells, altered the gut microbiota, induced inflammation, and modulated the expression of genes related to nutrient transport in the intestine. The severity of intestinal disturbance tended to worsen with dose.DiscussionDespite the absence of LGS, high concentrations of MPs induced dyslipidemia and NAFLD. Oral exposure to MPs triggered intestinal inflammation via natural killer cells, altered the gut microbiota, and modulated nutrient metabolism. Our study highlights the need for environmental measures to reduce oral MPs exposure in the future.

Determination of antioxidant activity in milk extracts with phosphomolibdate method

Antioxidants are mainly non-nutrient compounds in both human and animal feed, but have the antioxidant capacity in vitro to provide an artificial power index in preventing the destruction of cells and tissue potential by inhibiting nutrient oxidation. Milk contains lipophilic and hydrophilic antioxidants, which play a key role in maintaining. The efficiency of extraction for determining the antioxidant activity of milk corresponds to the method used for plant extraction. For this purpose, the phosphor molybdenum method based on the reduction of Mo (VI) in Mo (B) in samples of milk. Extracts obtained with methanol and ethanol, Soxlet method. Green complexes formed at acidic pH value, measurements of spectrophotometer (UV), λ = 695 nm. The values of milk samples are compared with respect to the calibration curve of gallic acid range (0.00 to 14.00 μg / ml, y = 0.0344 + 0.0519, R2 = 0.9709). The results of milk extract was concentration/ c = 3, 80; 2.35; 3.78; 4.85 / (μg / ml). The highest value of antioxidant activity in packs milk, which has 3.2% fat, also affects the fat and the presence of vitamin E, which found in fat droplets and has a synergistic effect with vitamin C. It concluded that the highest value of the total antioxidant activity in milk obtained from the first sample due to the use of several types of feed – alfalfa, two types of concentrated and straw, which proves the dependence of antioxidant activity on the impact of nutrients, that is, of their type and quantities.

Critical Indicators of Oxidative Stability of Confectionery Products

The article presents the results of accelerated tests of pastry biscuits with a mass fraction of fat of 17%, stored at two temperatures: +40°C and +50 °C, with a monthly assessment of indicators. The aim of the experiment was to establish critical organoleptic and physico-chemical parameters that allow an objective assessment of the processes of oxidative spoilage in confectionery products. Along with the standard indicators established by GOST R 70412 (1), the acid number and organoleptic characteristics were additionally determined according to the developed methodology using a point scale.

Protective effects of Bacillus velezensis on texture, physicochemical properties, and lipid oxidation of grass carp fillets during repeated freeze-thaw cycles.

Probiotics have excellent antioxidant and antibacterial effects and are also considered to be promising natural biological preservatives. This study examined the freeze-thaw stability of the antioxidant and antibacterial activity of probiotic Bacillus velezensis PJP10, and evaluated the effect of different concentrations of PJP10 (106, 107, and 108 CFU mL-1) on microbial growth, textural characteristics, physicochemical properties, and lipid oxidation of grass carp fillets during repeated freeze-thaw cycles. Freeze-thaw cycles had little effect on the antioxidant and antibacterial stability of PJP10. Treatment with the PJP10 strain slowed effectively the increase in Aeromonas spp. counts (ASC), pH, total volatile basal nitrogen (TVB-N), and thiobarbituric acid (TBA) values of the freeze-thaw fish fillets. It maintained the textural quality of fillets, inhibiting the reduction of hardness, springiness, gumminess, cohesiveness, chewiness, and resilience values, and reduced lipid oxidation, as evidenced by decreased carbonyl values and conjugated diene values after multiple freeze-thaw cycles. Probiotic B. velezensis PJP10 had protective effects on microbiological, textural, and physicochemical properties, and lipid oxidation of grass carp fillets during repeated freeze-thaw storage, suggesting a potential application of this strain in the freeze-thaw preservation of freshwater fish. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.

Oxidative Desulfurization of Dibenzothiophene Using Catalyst of NiO Impregnated on Magnetic Silica Sand from Parangtritis Beach

Oxidative desulfurization of dibenzothiophene (ODS-DBT) using catalyst of NiO impregnated on magnetic silica sand from Parangtritis beach (Ps) had been evaluated. The NiO-Ps catalyst was prepared using wet impregnation method with Ps to Ni (NO3)2·6H2O weight ratio of 1:1. The catalyst was calcined at a temperature of 400 °C for 5 h under flow of 20 mL min-1 of N2 gas. The ODS-DBT process was carried out using NiO-Ps catalyst on solution of n-hexane with a sulfur content of 500 ppm under variations of temperature, time, and H2O2 volume. The results of XRD and FTIR indicated the main minerals of Ps were quartz, alumina, and magnetite. The Ps and NiO-Ps had crystallinities of 59.97 and 70.32% with crystal sizes of 16.32 and 10.95 nm. The SEM-EDX and TEM analysis showed the surface of Ps was flat and NiO-Ps was rough. The BET-nitrogen absorption-desorption indicated the Ps and NiO-Ps were mesoporous materials with average pore diameters of 11.98 and 24.01 nm, total pore volumes of 0.008 and 0.057 cm3 g-1, and specific surface areas of 2.611 and 9.502 m2 g-1. The Ps and NiO-Ps have acidity values of 1.14 and 1.74 mmol g-1. The optimum desulfurization using NiO-Ps catalyst in the ODS-DBT was 79.40% obtained at a temperature, time, and H2O2 volume of 60 °C, 30 min, and 0.42 mL.

Standardization of Panchagavya for Enhanced Nutrient Content and Seed Germination in Sustainable Organic Farming

The detrimental effects of chemical-intensive agriculture have spurred interest in eco-friendly farming practices, particularly organic farming. Central to organic farming are organic manures, including various liquid organic formulations such as Panchagavya, which are rooted in Indigenous Technical Knowledge (ITK). Due to the variability in local production methodologies, there is a pressing need to standardize the production techniques of liquid organic manures, specifically Panchagavya, and to characterize their properties. The study standardizes Panchagavya production to reduce local variability. Eight ingredients were used, with 81 different combinations. Physical and chemical properties of prepared Panchagavya were analyzed, and principal component analysis was performed to determine optimal combinations for improved soil health and crop productivity. The nitrogen content of different combinations of Panchagavya ranged from 1.12% to 2.66%, phosphorus between 0.12% to 0.385%, potassium between 0.345% to 0.65%. The Ca content ranged between 186.3 mg L⁻¹ and 256.66 mg L⁻¹. Mg content the range was between 52.1 mg L-1 to 92.4 mg mg L-1, S varies between 0.08% and 0.3%, the Fe content in Panchagavya ranged from 49.7 mg L⁻¹ to 53.1 mg L⁻¹, Mn content ranged from 2.60 mg L⁻¹ to 5.05 mg L⁻¹, Zn content ranged from 4.1 mg L⁻¹ to 6.35 mg L⁻¹, and Cu content ranged from 12.50 mg L⁻¹ to 14.95 mg L⁻¹. with higher levels associated with increased quantities of cow urine, milk, curd, and ghee. Germination study indicated that Panchagavya positively affected seed germination and root growth increased from 3.45% to 114.66%. The growth hormone indole acetic acid values was between 56.6 µg mL⁻¹ and 104.19 µg mL⁻¹. Similarly, the gibberellic acid values ranged from 138.34 µg mL⁻¹ to 185.23 µg mL⁻¹. From the 81 treatment 10 best treatment was selected by principle component analysis of nutrient content of Panchagavya. Microbial analysis of selected Panchagavya demonstrated significant populations: bacteria (7.57 to 8.03 log cfu mL⁻¹), fungi (4.3 to 4.73 log cfu mL⁻¹), and actinomycetes (3.15 to 3.9 log cfu mL⁻¹). The presence of IAA and GA further substantiates its efficacy as an organic fertilizer. This research confirms that Panchagavya enhances nutrient content, microbial activity, and hormone levels, resulting in improved seed germination and root development. These findings highlight its potential as a sustainable alternative to chemical fertilizers, promoting organic farming practices and contributing to healthier soils.

Degradation of Argan Oils Used in Edible and Cosmetic Applications After Exposure to UV Light.

This study investigates for the first time the effects of UV light exposure on the chemical composition of artisanal and cold-pressed culinary and cosmetic argan oils, as well as their quality and biological activities. We ascertained the oxidative stability of both types of oil through measurements of the peroxide value, acidity, UV-spectrophotometric indexes (E232 and E270), and iodine value. Over the course of eight hours at room temperature, the impact of UV light on the breakdown of tocopherols, polyphenols, chlorophylls, and carotenoid pigments was examined. The findings showed that during photo-oxidation, acidity, peroxide value, and particular extinction coefficients (E232 and E270) gradually increased. On the other hand, a decline in the content of polyphenols, tocopherols, carotenoid, and chlorophyll was noted. Interestingly, iodine levels failed to improve. Although after an eight-hour degradation, the physicochemical profile of Argan oils remained exceptional. DPPH• (1,1-Diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl) antioxidant activity tests showed a gradual decrease in radical inhibition over time, which was attributed to lower levels of tocopherol and polyphenol. However, roasted oils showed antifungal action against Botrytis cinerea fungus, while Argan vegetable oils showed no activity against Escherichia coli, Microbacterium resistens, Staphylococcus saprophyticus, and Raoultella ornithinolytica, according to antimicrobial assays.

Exploring the Potential of Pangasius Catfish Oil as a Base Oil for Nanoemulsion Products: Optimization and Characterization

Pangasius catfish, also known as striped catfish, is a high-fat fish compared to other freshwater fish like snakehead fish and carp. The oil extracted from this fish contains unsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids that are beneficial for health. The quality of the oil is affected by the extraction method, especially the preliminary heating temperature for the extraction. Pangasius catfish oil contains omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) that have the potential to inhibit inflammation, hyperpigmentation, accelerate skin healing for topical applications, and act as a skin permeation enhancer and oil base for nanoemulsion due to its high oleic acid content. In this research, an experimental design was conducted on pangasius catfish oil extraction using the pressing method to optimize predetermined parameters using Response Surface Methodology (RSM). The factors considered for optimization included the quantity of water and extraction temperatures, with water content ranging from 50% to 150% (w/v) and extraction temperatures ranging from 25°C to 55°C. These ranges were intended to yield results and characterization values of oxidation parameters are tested according to the International Fish Oil Standard (IFOS) through tests including Acid Value (AV), Peroxide Value (PV), Anisidine Value (p-AnV), and Total Oxidation (TOTOX). Subsequently, the optimal conditions were confirmed to obtain the best fish oil results, which were achieved at 1.5 times the amount of pre-treatment water and a pre-treatment temperature of 55°C. The pangasius catfish oil obtained from the confirmation of optimal conditions is used as a raw material for producing nanoemulsions. The D-Optimal Mixture Design of Design Expert approach is utilized to formulate the nanoemulsion. The nanoemulsion formula containing 0.5% pangasius catfish oil was determined as the optimal formula according to the range of physical characteristics of the referenced nanoemulsion preparations with a desirability value of 0.974. This study has demonstrated the potential utility of pangasius catfish oil as a prominent base oil in nanoemulsion products.

Identify the Purity of Sesame Oil from Sesame Seeds (Sesamum indicum L.) and Analysis Using the ATR-FTIR Method

Sesame seeds (Sesamum indicum L.) are a plant that produces the most important and oldest oil known to man. Apart from being rich in nutrients, sesame consists of important functional components such as sesamin, sesamolin, sesamol, sesaminol, sesamolin phenol, and other lignan-like active ingredients and can trigger the motive to produce sesame oil by adulteration in order to achieve market desires. The aim of this research is to identify the purity of sesame oil and analyze it using the ATR-FTIR method to detect and prevent counterfeiting. Testing the characteristics of sesame oil can be adjusted to the quality requirements that have been set, one of which is the Indonesian National Standard (SNI) so that the quality of sesame oil circulating on the market is guaranteed. This research is non-experimental research. Sesame seed oil resulting from pressing is based on the test requirements of SNI 01-4468-1998 including the physico-chemical properties test. The results of the sesame seed oil profile are that the sesame seed oil extraction yield is 29.265%, the sesame oil is bright yellow in color, has a distinctive smell, specific gravity (20oC) 0.9237± 0.0057, refractive index 1.4702 ± 0.0005, peroxide value 2 ± 0.0577 meqO2/Kg, iodine value 107.1 ± 0.5773, and acid number 0.224 ± 0.0577. Based on the research results, it can be concluded that the pressed sesame seed oil has met the requirements of the SNI 01-4468-1998 test, and from the functional groups that appear in the ATR-FTIR it can be concluded that the pressed sesame oil contains methyl ester group compounds.

New fermented plant-based ingredients in sourdough breads enhanced nutritional value and impacted on gut microbiota

Two new recipes of baker's yeast bread fortified with fermented apple by-products and avocado or walnut were designed resulting in enhanced profiles of total free amino acids, in vitro protein digestibility (IVPD) and predicted glycemic index (pGI). Concurrently, pools of lactic acid bacteria and yeast were screened to select the most promising starters for sourdough preparation. The type II sourdough with Lactiplantibacillus plantarum CR1, Furfurilactobacillus rossiae CR5 and Saccharomyces cerevisiae E10 had the highest acidification and total free amino acids value, while resulting in bread with the highest IVPD and the lowest pGI.Sourdough breads were manufactured with the new recipes. They had improved protein digestibility and starch hydrolysis, and enhanced content of dietary fiber, phenolics and unsaturated free fatty acids. The impact of new fortified sourdough breads on colon microbial ecosystems was investigated by the Simulator of the Human Intestinal Microbial Ecosystem (SHIME®). The intake promoted the short-chain fatty acids synthesis and expanded several bacterial taxa with potential to exert beneficial activities. The synergic combination of sourdough fermentation and fortification with fermented plant-based matrices (including by-products) was a suitable strategy to promote better nutritional and digestibility properties in breads, and to promisingly address the modulation of gut microbiota.

The impact of replacing chemical nitrogen fertilizer with monosodium glutamate waste liquid residue on yield, quality, and carbon emission of rice production

Replacing chemical nitrogen (N) fertilizer with monosodium glutamate waste liquid residue (MSGWLR) is beneficial for achieving clean production in both the monosodium glutamate (MSG) industry and agriculture. However, the impact of this method on rice production and environment has not yet been clear. This study adopted field experiments to clarify the rice yield, quality and carbon emissions applying conventional application of chemical N fertilizer (CF), reduction of N fertilizer by 20% (N80%), based on reduction of chemical N fertilizer by 20% and replacing 50% chemical N fertilizer with MSGWLR (MSGWLR50%), and replacing 100% chemical N fertilizer (MSGWLR100%). The results showed that compared with CF treatment, MSGWLR100% showed no significant changes in rice yield, milling quality, fatty acid value, and taste quality. The chalkiness rate of rice significantly decreased, and the protein content significantly increased. On the other hand, the carbon emissions from rice production treated with MSGWLR100% were the lowest, with a 58.5% decrease in global warming potential (GWP) compared to CF treatment. This was mainly because MSGWLR100% treatment could provide rich and balanced nutrients for rice growth, and it did not promote greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from paddy field. At the same time, it effectively reduced the indirect carbon emissions in chemical fertilizer production by reducing chemical N fertilizer. Therefore, the MSGWLR100% fertilization treatment is beneficial for cleaner production in the MSG industry and rice cultivation.Graphical

Green energy using oscillatory baffled reactors: advances in biodiesel production from high free fatty acid karanja oil

Abstract The global demand for sustainable and ecologically friendly energy sources has spurred biodiesel research. Civilization, urbanization, and population growth have drastically boosted transportation energy consumption. Energy demand is causing fossil fuel crises. Replace petroleum diesel to solve energy and environmental problems. Biofuels have very vast scope in the area of energy sector. Karanja oil, derived from the seeds of the Karanja tree (Pongamia pinnata), is a promising biodiesel feedstock due to its high Free Fatty Acid content. This study uses Oscillatory Baffled Reactor (OBR) to produce biodiesel from Karanja oil. The feedstock is high-FFA Karanja oil trans-esterified in two steps. In OBR, reaction time is only 15 min, whereas in conventional reactor it takes 1–2 h to produce biodiesel. Optimizing biodiesel synthesis involved varying H2SO4 concentrations from 1 vol% to 5 vol% and 0.3 to1.0 wt% of NaOH concentration for first and second step respectively. Oil-to-alcohol molar ratios 1:6, 1:9 and 1:12. Optimization occurs at 1:12 oil-to-alcohol ratio, 1 vol% H2SO4 catalyst, and 0.6 wt% NaOH catalyst. Studies have also examined how catalyst concentration and oil: alcohol molar ratio affect biodiesel conversion and physical qualities such kinetic viscosity, specific gravity, and acid value. This study shows that OBR can increase biodiesel production from high-FFA Karanja oil, which further opens up opportunities for additional study and improvement.

Characterization and anti-aging activities of Haruan (Channa striata) fish oil

Haruan fish or snakehead fish (Channa striata) is a freshwater fish widely cultivated in Indonesia. Fish oils are believed to have some biological activities which are beneficial to human health, including antioxidant and antiaging activities. The objectives of this study are to determine the characteristics and yield of Haruan fish oil (HFO) using three extraction methods (steaming, maceration, and pressing), to determine radical scavenging activity (RSA) of fish oils using 2,2’-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radicals and 2,2'- azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS) radicals and to determine anticollagenase activity of HFO. The extraction of HFO from the flesh part using the steaming method resulted in the highest RSA values either using DPPH or ABTS radicals. HFO could inhibit the activity of collagenase by 26.87±0.391%. The highest yield of HFO was obtained using the steaming method, with extraction yields of flesh and offal of 2.02% and 2.05%, respectively. The acid values (AV) of HFOs obtained from different parts using the steaming method were 1.87±0.04 (flesh part), 1.88±0.07 (head) and 1.93±0.05 (offal). The saponification values (SV) of HFO using the same extraction method were 6.30±0.26, 6.17±0.07, and 6.30±0.23 for flesh, head and offal, respectively. The peroxide (PV) and iodine (IV) values were 85.37±2.86 and 198.51±7.68, 103.70±2.21 and 206.44±5.24, as well as 96.05±2.93 and 193.68±1.70, for flesh, head and offal, respectively. These parameters (AV, SV, PV and IV) met the requirements. Haruan fish oil has the potential to be developed as a source of the human diet.

Study of the Acidic, Basic, and Thermal Degradation Kinetics of Three Antihypertensive Drugs—Individually and in Combination

Background/Objectives: The importance of fixed-dose combinations (FDCs) for the treatment of hypertension is well established. However, from a stability perspective, FDCs present a challenge since the degradation of one active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) can be affected by the presence of another API. The aim of this study was to compare the degradation behaviors and evaluate the degradation kinetics of three antihypertensive drugs, perindopril tert-butylamine (PER), amlodipine besylate (AML), and indapamide (IND). Methods: The degradation processes were studied using the previously developed reverse phase high-performance liquid chromatographic (RP-HPLC) method after exposing each drug individually, as well as the combinations of two/three drugs, to different stress factors, such as light, oxidation, acidic, basic, or neutral pH values at different temperatures. Results: The results show that PER is most unstable under basic conditions and that AML displays a negative, while IND displays a positive effect, on PER stability when combined. AML is most affected by basic conditions and oxidation, and its stability is affected by both drugs positively; IND undergoes extreme photolysis, which is positively affected by AML but negatively by PER. Conclusions: Great care must be taken when formulating FDCs with these three drugs, as well as solutions or oral suspensions adjusted for geriatric or pediatric populations, since the stability of all three drugs is greatly affected by pH conditions, as well as light or oxidation factors and their interactions.