Chemical Analysis Research Articles

Dielectrophoresis: Measurement technologies and auxiliary sensing applications.

Dielectrophoresis (DEP), which arises from the interaction between dielectric particles and an aqueous solution in a nonuniform electric field, contributes to the manipulation of nano and microparticles in many fields, including colloid physics, analytical chemistry, molecular biology, clinical medicine, and pharmaceutics. The measurement of the DEP force could provide a more complete solution for verifying current classical DEP theories. This review reports various imaging, fluidic, optical, and mechanical approaches for measuring the DEP forces at different amplitudes and frequencies. The integration of DEP technology into sensors enables fast response, high sensitivity, precise discrimination, and label-free detection of proteins, bacteria, colloidal particles, and cells. Therefore, this review provides an in-depth overview of DEP-based fabrication and measurements. Depending on the measurement requirements, DEP manipulation can be classified into assistance and integration approaches to improve sensor performance. To this end, an overview is dedicated to developing the concept of trapping-on-sensing, improving its structure and performance, and realizing fully DEP-assisted lab-on-a-chip systems.

Kaempferol derivatives from Hippophae rhamnoides Linn. ameliorate H2O2-induced oxidative stress in SH-SY5Y cells by upregulating Nrf2.

As a medicinal and edible food, Hippophae rhamnoides Linn. subsp. sinensis Rousi is plenty of bioactive secondary metabolites including flavonoids and their derivatives, which have a certain protective effect on oxidative damage. The present study isolated three new kaempferol derivatives (compound 1-3), named Hippophandine A-C, from H. rhamnoides seed residue. The structures of Hippophandine A-C were explicated by HR-ESI-MS, NMR, and chemical analyses. Hippophandine A-C (1, 5, and 10 µM) were used to attenuate H2O2-induced cell death in SH-SY5Y and explore the mechanism in oxidative damage. The results elucidated that Hippophandine A-C reduced MDA, and increased the relative SOD, GSH, CAT contents, Nrf2 and HO-1 expression in H2O2-induced SH-SY5Y.

Translational PK/PD framework for antibody-drug conjugates to inform drug discovery and development.

(171/200)ADCs represent a transformative class of medicine that combines the specificity of monoclonal antibodies with the potency of highly cytotoxic agents through linkers, aiming to enhance the therapeutic index of cytotoxic drugs. Given the complex molecular structures of ADCs, combining the molecular characteristics of small-molecule drugs and those of large-molecule biotherapeutics, there are several unique considerations when designing nonclinical-to-clinical PK/PD translation strategies.This complexity also demands a thorough understanding of the ADC's components-antibody, linker, and payload-to the overall toxicological, PK/PD, and efficacy profile. ADC development is a multidisciplinary endeavor requiring a strategic integration of nonclinical safety, pharmacology, and PK/PD modeling to translate from bench to bedside successfully.The ADC development underscores the necessity for a robust scientific foundation, leveraging advanced analytical and modeling tools to predict human responses and optimize therapeutic outcomes.This review aims to provide an ADC translational PK/PD framework by discussing unique aspects of ADC nonclinical to clinical PK translation, starting dose determination, and leveraging PK/PD modeling for human efficacious dose prediction and potential safety mitigation.

Chemical Potential Analysis as an Alternative to the van't Hoff Method: Hypothetical Limits of Solar Thermochemical Hydrogen.

The van't Hoff method is a standard approach for determining reaction enthalpies and entropies, e.g., in the thermochemical reduction of oxides, which is an important process for solar thermochemical fuels and numerous other applications. However, by analyzing the oxygen partial pressure pO2, e.g., as measured by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), this method convolutes the properties of the probe gas with the solid-state properties of the examined oxides, which define their suitability for specific applications. The "chemical potential method" is here proposed as an alternative. Using the oxygen chemical potential ΔμO instead of pO2 for the analysis, this method does not only decouple gas-phase and solid-state contributions but also affords a simple and transparent approach to extracting the temperature dependence of the reduction enthalpy and entropy, which carries important information about the defect mechanism. For demonstration of the approach, this work considers three model systems; (1) a generic oxide with noninteracting, charge-neutral oxygen vacancy defects, (2) Sr0.86Ce0.14MnO3(1-δ) alloys with interacting vacancies, and (3) a model for charged vacancy formation in CeO2, which reproduces the extensive experimental TGA data available in the literature. The reduction behavior of these model systems obtained from the chemical potential method is correlated with simulated results for the thermochemical water splitting cycle, highlighting the exceptional behavior of CeO2, which originates from defect ionization. The theoretical performance limits for solar thermochemical hydrogen within the charged defect mechanism are assessed by considering hypothetical materials described by a variation of the CeO2 model parameters within a plausible range.

Designing a Phenalenyl-Based Dinuclear Ni(II) Complex: An Electrocatalyst with Two Single Ni Sites for the Oxygen Evolution Reaction (OER).

A new dinuclear Ni(II) complex 1, [Ni2II(dtbh-PLY)2], is synthesized from 9-(2-(3,6-di-tert-butyl-2-hydroxybenzylidene)hydrazineyl)-1H-phenalen-1-one, dtbh-PLYH2 ligand, and structurally characterized by various analytical tools including the single-crystal X-ray diffraction (SCXRD) technique. In the solid state, both Ni(II) metal centers in complex 1 exist in a distorted square planar geometry and display the presence of rare Ni···H-C anagostic interactions to form a one-dimensional (1-D) linear motif in the supramolecular array. Complex 1 is further stabilized in the solid state by π-π-stacking interactions between the highly delocalized phenalenyl rings. The redox features of complex 1 have been analyzed by the cyclic voltammetry (CV) technique in solution as well as in the solid state, revealing the crucial involvement of both the Ni(II) metal centers for undergoing quasi-reversible oxidation reactions on the application of an anodic sweep. A complex 1-modified glassy carbon electrode, GC-1, is employed as an electrocatalyst for oxygen evolution reaction (OER) in 1.0 M KOH, giving an OER onset at 1.45 V, and very low OER overpotential, 300 mV vs the reversible hydrogen electrode (RHE) to reach 10 mA cm-2 current density. Furthermore, GC-1 displayed fast OER kinetics with a Tafel slope of 40 mV dec-1, a significantly lower Tafel slope value than those of previously reported molecular Ni(II) catalysts. In situ electrochemical experiments and postoperational UV-vis, Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR), scanning electron microscopy-energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDS), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) studies were performed to analyze the stability of the molecular nature of complex 1 and to gain reasonable insights into the true OER catalyst.

A comparative study of the hypolipidemic effects and mechanisms of action of Laminaria japonica- and Ascophyllum nodosum-derived fucoidans in apolipoprotein E-deficient mice.

The structural characteristics of fucoidans exhibit species and regional diversity. Previous studies have demonstrated that Laminaria japonica- and Ascophyllum nodosum-derived fucoidans have type I and type II fucosyl chains, respectively. These chemical differences may contribute to distinct hypolipidemic effects and mechanisms of action. Chemical analysis demonstrated that the percentage contents of sulfate, glucuronic acid, and galactose were higher in L. japonica-derived fucoidans than those of A. nodosum-derived fucoidans. In hyperlipidemic apolipoprotein E-deficient mice, both A. nodosum- and L. japonica-derived fucoidans significantly decreased the plasma and hepatic levels of total cholesterol and triglyceride, leading to the reduction of atherosclerotic plaques. Western blotting experiments demonstrated that these fucoidans significantly enhanced the expression and levels of scavenger receptor B type 1, cholesterol 7 alpha-hydroxylase A1, and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR)-α, contributing to circulating lipoprotein clearance and fatty acid degradation, respectively. Differentially, L. japonica-derived fucoidan significantly increased the LXR/ATP-binding cassette G8 signaling pathway in the small intestine, as revealed by real-time quantitative PCR, which may lead to further cholesterol and other lipid excretion. Collectively, these data are useful for understanding the hypolipidemic mechanisms of action of seaweed-derived fucoidans, and their potential application for the prevention and/or treatment of atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases.

Evaluation of long-term properties and life cycle assessment of alkali-activated concrete with varying fiber inclusions

The potential for using alkali-activated concrete (AAC) as a sustainable substitute for Portland cement (PC) concrete is a topic of ongoing research interest. The uncertainties in the raw material composition, the reportedly low tensile strength of AAC, and the lack of relevant standard codes of practice further inhibit wider industrial usage of AACs. Fiber inclusions reportedly enhance the tensile properties of traditional PC concrete. However, there is no long-term data available for fiber-reinforced alkali-activated concrete (FRAAC) mixtures. Hence, the present study is aimed at investigating the long-term mechanical properties of ambient-cured FRAAC with GGBS as the sole precursor. Four different types of fibers, viz., steel (SF), polyvinyl alcohol (PVAF), polypropylene (PPF) and glass (GF) are used in this research as reinforcements in AAC. Tests for compressive strength (fc′), splitting tensile strength (fsp) and flexural strength (fr) are conducted for FRAAC containing varying fiber contents of 0.1–0.3%. The findings demonstrated that fiber additions do not have any noticeable influence on the compressive strength of AAC. However, relative to the plain mix, the fsp and fr of FRAACs were enhanced by up to 32% and 29%, respectively. The formation of the hardened calcium aluminosilicate matrix and evolution of the fiber-matrix bonding over time was evident from the scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images. The related molecular bonds over a period of 7-d to 360-d was identified through mineralogical and chemical analyses. Furthermore, to validate its environmental sustainability, life cycle assessments were conducted. The AACs exhibited at least 43% lesser impacts than PC concrete on the ecosystem. FRAACs had only slightly higher (≤ 7% increase across all fiber types) impacts than plain AAC.

Attention towards chemistry agnostic and explainable battery lifetime prediction

Predicting and monitoring battery life early and across chemistries is a significant challenge due to the plethora of degradation paths, form factors, and electrochemical testing protocols. Existing models typically translate poorly across different electrode, electrolyte, and additive materials, mostly require a fixed number of cycles, and are limited to a single discharge protocol. Here, an attention-based recurrent algorithm for neural analysis (ARCANA) architecture is developed and trained on an ultra-large, proprietary dataset from BASF and a large Li-ion dataset gathered from literature across the globe. ARCANA generalizes well across this diverse set of chemistries, electrolyte formulations, battery designs, and cycling protocols and thus allows for an extraction of data-driven knowledge of the degradation mechanisms. The model’s adaptability is further demonstrated through fine-tuning on Na-ion batteries. ARCANA advances the frontier of large-scale time series models in analytical chemistry beyond textual data and holds the potential to significantly accelerate discovery-oriented battery research endeavors.

Technical and Enviro-economic Analysis of a 0.78 kWp PV System

Aim: To determine the technical, economic and environmental performance analysis of an installed PV backup system. Study Design: To attain this goal, analysis were performed using a freely available PVSyst 6.7.0 software tool. Economic evaluation was performed using respective present worth of individual component prices. Environmental performance comparison is made between the PV system and diesel generator when each is used as an independent backup system. Input in-situ measured data were determined, measured and keyed into the tool. Place and Duration of Study: The system is installed in an institutional building in a tropical climatic zone with coordinates 0.42 N and 35.03 E. The system was studied for a period of one year where data was collected and recorded for techno-enviroeconomic analysis. Methodology: The system consists of four PV modules rated at 0.78 KWp, charge controller and an inverter unit and battery bank, and is utilized as a power backup system to supply electricity whenever power failure occurs, which is frequent and real in Kenya. The techno-enviroeconomic performances analysis of the system were evaluated using the PVSyst software, a freely available design and analytical tool, where input data were measured and recorded at the site. Results: The performance analysis of the system showed that PV array efficiency of 13.24%, FF of 0.68, CF of 21.23%, and PR of 73.63% and generated electrical energy of 1092 kWh/year. The LCOE of PV electricity was 0.059 $/kWh, while total saving of CO2 emission in tons of CO2 was 9.0 tCO2 with LCE value of 331 gCO2/ kWh. Conclusion: Techno- enviroeconomic performance results of the studied PV system show that the system can contribute significantly to the mitigation of CO2 emission. This work also could be helpful for consumers and policy makers in the choice of renewable based or fossil based backup generation systems.

Enhancing workplace spirituality for higher education academicians through human resource practices

PurposeThis study investigates how human resource training and development (HRTD) shapes workplace spirituality in higher education. It delves into key factors impacting spirituality among academics, such as colleague support and e-learning initiatives. Through analytical tools like percentage analysis and Garret ranking, it divides workplace spirituality in academia, exploring the HR strategies that induce it.Design/methodology/approach(a) Type of research – Descriptive research (b) Area of research – The present study is taken up by the academicians as a respondent in selected colleges in Salem district. (c) Sampling technique – Simple random method was adopted. (d) Sources of data collection – The study comprises mixed data method that both types of data were adopted. (i) Primary data – Researcher conducted data by selecting a representative sample of the teaching faculties from various institutions employed in higher education in Salem. (ii) Secondary data – It is mostly gathered through content found on websites. (e) Method of data collection – Structured questionnaires were employed in this research to acquire the data needed for the investigation. Every item it is rated through five-point scale of with 1 denoting “Strongly Agree” to “Strongly Disagree,” this includes questions about the job, coworkers, seniors and training. (f) Research tools used – Descriptive statistics, Friedman test and Garret ranking.FindingsFindings highlight the significance of encouraging colleagues, workplace development and online learning in fostering workplace spirituality. Faculty encouragement emerges as the most impactful HR practice, while development initiatives improve the reputation of training for new aspects. Notably, online training significantly affects workplace spirituality, increasing the influence of cultural training.Research limitations/implicationsImplications for future research arise, suggesting potential models for studying workplace spirituality in academia and sparking curiosity about the connection between HR practices and spirituality.Practical implicationsFrom a practical viewpoint, the study offers actionable insights for authorities to improve workplace spirituality by supporting colleagues and emphasizing growth strategies. It outlines clear steps for organizations to create more spiritually enriching work environments.Social implicationsSocially, the study advocates for healthier work cultures that impact society's perspective on work–life balance and employee well-being. It promotes positive work environments that benefit both individuals and society.Originality/valueThis paper's originality lies in its focus on how HRTD contributes to workplace spirituality in higher education. It emphasizes supporting colleagues, fostering growth and utilizing e-learning, offering unique insights into spirituality at work. The methodology, using structured questionnaires and statistical analysis among faculty, provides a distinct approach to studying this area.

Holding the harasser responsible: Implications of identifying sexual harassment that includes abuse of power and quid pro quo elements as sexual corruption

AbstractThis article argues that a perpetrator‐based definition of sexual harassment that highlights corrupt aspects of sexual harassment may contribute to a shift in focus from the experience of the harassed, to the actions of the harasser. This argument is based on an analysis of testimonies of sexual harassment from the #metoo call by the Swedish police in 2017, which reference abuse of power and quid pro quo elements. By introducing the recently developed analytical framework of ‘sexual corruption’, we show how a perpetrator‐based definition of sexual harassment may contribute to attributing responsibility to harassers. Identifying sexual harassment that includes the abuse of power and quid pro quo elements as corruption centers on the role of the abuse of power and, thus, the responsibility of the person abusing their position of power. Moreover, this shift bypasses discussions of whether or not the situation was experienced as ‘unwelcome’ by the harassed, the severity of the act, and questions of coercion and consent. Identifying instances of sexual harassment that include the abuse of power and quid pro quo elements as corruption also closes off attempts to portray it in terms of ‘jokes’ or banter, which is common in the police context. The article contributes with analytical tools that enable a shift from tracing the experience of the harassed to centering on the actions and responsibility of the harasser.

Static and dynamic strength properties of highly structured clay-rich diatomite in Shengzhou, China

Diatomite is a widespread geological substance found in coastal and lake areas worldwide. Although diatomites are increasingly used in geotechnical engineering construction, a significant knowledge gap exists regarding their mechanical responses to static and dynamic loadings, particularly in high-speed railway projects. This study investigates the static and dynamic behaviors of diatomites through extensive experiments, considering both natural and remolded states. It focuses on representative diatomite specimens obtained from the Shengzhou region in China, an area intersected by the Hang-Shao-Tai high-speed railway. The results of uniaxial compression and undrained triaxial shear tests show that the structural degradation of diatomite significantly impacts its stress-strain responses, failure patterns, and mechanical parameters under static and dynamic loading conditions. The structural effects of natural diatomite tend to degrade as the confining pressure level increases, resulting in corresponding changes in its mechanical parameters. Undrained triaxial shear tests conducted on natural diatomite reveal that the inclinations of the shear band closely correspond to those predicted by the Mohr-Coulomb solution. Additionally, we present a modified hyperbolic-type model to evaluate the damping ratio of diatomites. Furthermore, a power-law model based on Hardin's formula was used to predict the maximum shear modulus of diatomites under varying stress levels and void ratios. Microstructural and chemical analyses were conducted using scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction to gain insights into the observed structural effects at the microscale.

Effect of Fiber and Insect Powder Addition on Selected Organoleptic and Nutritional Characteristics of Gluten-Free Bread

A wide range of gluten-free bakery products are already available on the market. However, they often have a low proportion of fiber and inferior sensory properties when compared to classic baked goods. The aim of this work was to evaluate the influence of the addition of different types of fiber and insect powder on selected organoleptic and nutritional properties of gluten-free pieces of bread and to reformulate a recipe for gluten-free bread. Twenty experimental samples were prepared with different types and percentages of fiber, either alone or in combination. Sensory analysis, instrumental texture analysis, and chemical analyses, including predicted glycemic index, were carried out. A total of 16 of the 24 fiber-enriched samples received an average or slightly above-average rating. The samples containing the fiber mixture without insect powder and the sample containing 9% flaxseed performed best in the overall evaluation. The combination of different types of plant fibers simultaneously with the incorporation of insect powder in a low concentration appears to be advantageous, both from the viewpoint of sensory acceptability and also from the viewpoint of the potential for increasing the polyphenol content and antioxidant capacity. This study lists the sensorially acceptable range of fiber concentrations, which can be a guide for the bakery industry.

AN ANALYSIS OF MICRO-NUTRIENTS COMPOSITION OF COCOYAM (COLOCASIAE ESCULENTA) AND SWEET POTATO (IPOMOEA BATATAS L) LEAVES IN MELON SOUP

The study ascertained the micro-nutrient composition of cocoyam and sweet potato leaves in melon soups. The study was conducted to identify vitamins and mineral composition in three types of melon soups. The instrument adopted for the study was laboratory analysis of food nutrients using official methods of Association of Official Analytical Chemists. The data for micro nutrients were collected in triplicates from the melon soups in the food analysis laboratory, raw triplicate values of each micro nutrient in the soups were collected and analyzed using ±SD and ANOVA statistics to test the hypotheses 1 – 4. The findings revealed that cocoyam and sweet potato leaves melon soups are as rich as fluted pumpkin leaf melon soup in micro nutrients, such as vitamin A (Iµ) 16.03: 16.80 while fluted pumpkin 19.88; vitamin C (mg) 26.30: 36.89 while fluted pumpkin 28.46; folic acid (mg) 33.44: 40.64 while fluted pumpkin 46.73 among others. For minerals- Na (mg) 29.80: 26.16 while fluted pumpkin 34.19; Fe (mg) 1.41: 1.60 while fluted pumpkin 1.24 K (mg) 36.08: 46.46 while fluted pumpkin 34.57; Ca (mg) 11.19: 8.10 while fluted pumpkin 5.88; Mg (mg) 4.62: 3.53 while fluted pumpkin 2.63 among others. The study also showed that there was a significant difference between the mean values of the micro-nutrients analysis. The study recommended that, the consumption of cocoyam and sweet potato leaves should be encouraged by families in the country, as well be made available in the open market same way the popular vegetables are sold such as fluted pumpkin (Ugu) leaf.

Enhancing Sensitivity and Selectivity in Pesticide Detection: A Review of Cutting-Edge Techniques.

The primary goal of our review was to systematically explore and compare the state-of-the-art methodologies employed in the detection of pesticides, a critical component of global food safety initiatives. New approach methods in the fields of luminescent nanosensors, chromatography, terahertz spectroscopy, and Raman spectroscopy are discussed as precise, rapid, and versatile strategies for pesticide detection in food items and agroecological samples. Luminescent nanosensors emerge as powerful tools, noted for their portability and unparalleled sensitivity and real-time monitoring capabilities. Liquid and gas chromatography coupled to spectroscopic detectors, stalwarts in the analytical chemistry field, are lauded for their precision, wide applicability, and validation in diverse regulatory environments. Terahertz spectroscopy offers unique advantages such as noninvasive testing, profound penetration depth, and bulk sample handling. Meanwhile, Raman spectroscopy stands out with its nondestructive nature, its ability to detect even trace amounts of pesticides, and its minimal requirement for sample preparation. While acknowledging the maturity and robustness of these techniques, our review underscores the importance of persistent innovation. These methodologies' significance extends beyond their present functions, highlighting their adaptability to meet ever-evolving challenges. Environ Toxicol Chem 2024;00:1-17. © 2024 The Authors. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of SETAC.

Testing non-destructive spectrometric methods for the identification and distinction of archaeological pine wood tar and birch bark tar

Archaeological findings prove the appearance and use of birch bark tar since the Middle Palaeolithic. The production and use of birch bark tar and pine wood tar has overlapped since at least the late Neolithic, but probably for much longer. The reliable chemical identification of such archaeological tar residues can offer valuable insights into, for example, ancient technical complexity, trade and culture. In this context, the scarcity of these mainly organic residue findings in the archaeological record bears the need for non-destructive analytical tools. However, there is currently no systematic proposed way for this purpose. We aim here to verify the organic nature and test the reliability of the identification of archaeological pine wood tar and birch bark tar with a combination of SEM-EDS, FTIR microspectroscopy in reflectance mode and XRD. We examined a set of experimental adhesive replicas of pine tar and birch tar in pristine form, but also after a three-year-long weathering experiment. Additionally, we studied a set of archaeological samples, consisting of Mesolithic bone/antler points with adhering hafting residues, form the Dutch North Sea. This research shows that degradation negatively influences the reliable verification and identification of the organic residue constituents significantly. SEM-EDS as a starting point of analysis verifies the residue’s organic nature, but it cannot be used to identify birch or pine tar. XRD can identify crystalline additives in the adhesive mixture, like ochre and wax, as well as phases related to the artefact’s environment of burial and provenance. Micro-FTIR is also capable of verifying the organic matter of the residue constituents. The differentiation of birch and pine tars is hindered by vibrational modes occurring in neighbouring wavenumbers for both tars, and by the limited research on degradation markers indicative of thermal treatment to prove tar production. Until reference collections also account for degradation and include a wide variety of adhesives, results of FTIR collected in reflectance mode are best treated with some caution.

Dams trigger exponential population declines of migratory fish.

The impact of dams on global migratory fish stocks is a major challenge and remains seriously underestimated. China has initiated a dozen fish rescue programs for the dams on the Yangtze River, focusing on five flagship species-Chinese sturgeon, Chinese paddlefish, Yangtze sturgeon, Chinese sucker, and Coreius guichenoti. Despite 40 years of effort, these five fishes are on the verge of extinction. Here, we propose an analytical tool that includes a framework of fish migration taxonomy and six life cycle models, the concepts of invalid stock and the dam impact coefficient, and a simplified population model. We then clarify the migration patterns and life cycles of these fishes and show that the Yangtze dams have severely disrupted the life cycle integrity of these species, causing seven types of invalid stocks and their exponential population declines. Last, we discuss six scientific misjudgments underpinning the fish rescue programs and recommend reforms to China's fish rescue strategy.

Development of Nd doped AlFeO3 electrode material for supercapacitor applications

The development of metal oxides nanoscale structures with enhanced chemically active surfaces, faster ion/charge transport kinetics with shorter ion-diffusion paths is demand in the field of supercapacitor. The issue of transition metal oxides has been successfully resolved through the utilization of metal doping, which concurrently enhances surface area, accelerates ion migration and enhances thermal and structural stability. The Nd doped AlFeO3 electrode substance fabricated hydrothermal process for electrochemical properties. The different analytical tools determined physical and electrochemical characteristics of prepared electrode material. Nd@AlFeO3 electrode material demonstrates specific capacitance of 1326 F/g at 1 A/g measured from galvanostatic charging/discharging plot which maintains remarkable stability after 5000th cycles. The Nyquist plot determines lower charge transfer resistance of Nd@AlFeO3 electrode material (1.15 Ω). The Nd@AlFeO3 electrode material exhibited improved electrochemical properties which makes it promising candidate for integration into supercapacitor devices.

Biomarkers of mussel exposure to Vibrionaceae: A review

AbstractFor more than a century, bacterial infections caused by Vibrio spp. have affected various species of mussels around the world, with limited insights into the responses implemented by mussels against these infections. A combination of chemical analyses and carefully selected biological endpoints from haemolymph and tissues can be used to identify the welfare status of mussels and potentially protect aquatic ecosystems from catastrophic health threats. Recent developments in biomarker identification tools, such as omics and bioinformatics, have been successfully applied to evaluate the effect of environmental pollutants and other chemicals on mussels. However, the application of biomarkers to assess mussel health is limited. This review describes the available scientific literature on biomarker research for Vibrio-mussel interactions, and those aspects related to mussel health and disease assessment, grouped as biomarkers of exposure, effects, and susceptibility. From the review, it is clear that when integrated biomarkers are used, they can provide a deeper understanding of the relative health and potential susceptibility of mussels for better management practices. Furthermore, health biomarker data can be used to build resilience in mussels against climate change conditions, strengthen biosecurity management programs, improve farming and processing efficiency, and add value in terms of market-desirable traits. These data hold promise for advancing sustainability efforts within the aquaculture industry. Graphical abstract

PUMPKIN AND PASTEL WINE, A FRUIT AND A LEGUME OF THE CUCURBITACEES FAMILY IN GREEN CIRCULAR ECONOMY WITH ZERO WASTE

This study explores the viability of watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) and pumpkin (Cucurbita pepo subsp. Pepo) as unconventional sources for sustainable winemaking, contributing to a zero-waste circular economy in viticulture. The research employs a multidimensional methodology encompassing chemical analyses, sensory evaluations, and environmental impact assessments to scrutinize the entire lifecycle of wine production. The findings reveal watermelon wine's superiority, boasting a 14° alcohol content, while pumpkin wine ranges at 11°. Both wines maintain physico-chemical and organoleptic attributes, with minimal alterations in micronutrient content. The compost generated from processing waste contains essential nutrients for plant growth. Comparative analysis underscores the advantageous nature of this compost, laying the foundation for sustainable winemaking practices in Madagascar and illuminating the untapped potential of tropical fruits in the global viticultural landscape. This study, pioneering the valorization of unconventional fruit and vegetable in Madagascar, strives to contribute to the discourse on environmentally conscious winemaking, fostering a paradigm shift toward ecologically harmonious practices in the agro-industrial sector.