Perspectives for utilization of green liquor dregs: Considerations for future studies.

This study investigates the supercritical carbon dioxide (ScCO2) extraction method for obtaining chemical profiles and biological activities of four Helichrysum species: Helichrysum italicum (Roth) G. Don, Helichrysum plicatum DC., Helichrysum sanguineum (L.) Kostel. and Helichrysum stoechas (L.) Moench. ScCO2 extraction is regarded as an efficient and environmentally friendly technique for producing high-quality plant extracts; however, comparative data on bioactivity and chemical composition among Helichrysum species remain limited. Aerial parts of the species were collected and extracted using ScCO2 at 20 MPa and 40 °C. The extracts were analyzed for chemical composition and phenolic profiles, and their antioxidant, α-glucosidase inhibitory and antimicrobial activities were evaluated. The highest extraction yield was obtained from H. italicum (28.7 g kg-1), whereas H. stoechas showed the lowest yield (10.4 g kg-1). Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis identified (Z)-13-octadecenal (0-27.11%) and 9-octadecenoic acid (33.18-58.79%) as the dominant constituents across the species, indicating a clear prevalence of unsaturated fatty acids in ScCO2 extracts. Phenolic composition varied among species, with luteolin identified as the predominant compound in all extracts. Helichrysum plicatum exhibited the highest antioxidant capacity based on 2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (i.e. ABTS)•+ radical scavenging activity [i.e. extract concentration providing 50% inhibition (IC50)], whereas H. sanguineum showed the strongest α-glucosidase inhibitory activity (IC50). Antimicrobial assays demonstrated moderate to strong inhibitory effects against both bacterial and yeast strains. Furthermore, ADMET analysis indicated favorable acute toxicity and pharmacokinetic profiles for major phytochemicals, and molecular docking revealed that luteolin, epicatechin and chlorogenic acid exhibited the most favorable binding affinities with selected target proteins. The results demonstrate that ScCO2 extracts of Helichrysum species possess notable bioactive properties, with significant interspecific variation in chemical composition and biological activity, highlighting their potential for pharmaceutical and cosmetic applications. © 2026 Society of Chemical Industry.

•Laser ablation in acetylene forms Cu–C composite nanostructures in one step.•Surface SEY depends on both nanostructure and chemical composition.•Laser treatment allows the reduction of SEY from 2.2 down to 1.2.•Electron conditioning reduces SEY to 0.61 via chemical bond changes.•Carbon-oxide bond reduction is key to SEY suppression after conditioning. The functionality of surfaces is dependent on two characteristic properties: surface topography and chemical composition. For instance, the secondary electron yield (SEY) of metal surfaces can be adjusted by surface nanostructures or by altering the surface composition. In this study, the two concepts are combined in a one-step process. Reactive Laser ablation based nanostructuring of copper surfaces in a carbon-containing atmosphere was performed, which results in the formation of a metal-particle carbon composite layer. Copper was irradiated with IR ps laser radiation (λ = 1030 nm, Δtp = 10 ps, frep = 100 kHz, Φacc = 2300 J/cm2) in an acetylene atmosphere. The process results in the production of a nanostructured surface with a significant carbon content. The resultant maximum SEY (δmax) depends on the treatment parameters and on the storage time of the copper surface in air after the laser treatment process. The δmax of the laser treated copper surface was 1.2 after two weeks storage and increased to 1.4 after one year storage, while an electron conditioning (electron energy: 250 eV, electron dose: 3⋅10-2C/mm2) after the one year allows δmax reduction down to 0.61. The results show that besides the topography the chemical composition plays an important role for the resulting SEY. In particular, the modification induced by electron conditioning results in a chemical reduction of the carbon-oxide bonds.

Tracking the photooxidation products of primary plastic pellets (nurdles) in seawater.

Niobium pentoxide addition to 3D printing resin-based composites.

Evaluation of carotenoid bioaccumulation in black soldier fly, Hermetia illucens (Diptera: Stratiomyidae), and its influence on nutritional characteristics and antioxidant capacity.

Biogas potential of flax straw (L. usitatissimum) in Canadian Prairies: Composition, degradation, and microbial dynamics

Determination of standardized mineral availability in different corn sources for broilers and establishment of prediction models.

The objective of this study was to assess the effects of alkaline twin-screw extrusion pretreatment on sugarcane bagasse (SCB), including the extraction yield, solid residue chemical composition, and mechanical and water resistance properties of the resulting binderless self-bonded materials made by thermocompression. The parameters investigated were the NaOH concentration in relation to the dry SCB flow rate (0–10% [ w /w]), the screw rotation speed (150–250 rpm) and the effects of a washing step after pretreatment. Soluble molecule extraction from SCB was maximal at a 5.5% ( w /w) NaOH concentration, and the extraction yield increased when the screw rotation speed was reduced. The addition of NaOH reduced the mechanical action of the extruder and fiber defibration, but enhanced the chemical action on the fibers through the cleavage of covalent bonds within the lignocellulosic structure, resulting in increased extraction of molecules. Alkaline pretreatment modified the extrudate chemical composition, leading to increased hemicellulose and lignin solubilization and deacetylation, which resulted in a decline in the mechanical properties and water resistance of the materials obtained. The addition of a washing step removed the residual NaOH and water-soluble molecules in the extrudates, while slightly reducing thickness swelling in the final materials. Material made from the extrudate produced in the presence of 1% ( w /w) NaOH followed by a washing step had superior water resistance and good mechanical properties. The characteristics of the material obtained under these specific conditions were: 1486 kg/m 3 density, 53.8 MPa flexural strength, 5.5 GPa flexural modulus, 76% water absorption and 69% thickness swelling. • Alkaline extrusion pretreatment with NaOH was performed on sugarcane bagasse. • NaOH addition increased the cleavage of covalent bonds within the lignin-carbohydrate complex. • Alkaline pretreatment reduced mechanical action and fiber defibration. • Lower screw rotation speed improved L/S separation and extraction yield. • NaOH pretreatment reduced strength and water resistance of the final materials.

Chemical composition, bioactivity, and applications of Pandanus amaryllifolius leaves: A comprehensive review

Most studies of the chemical ecology of plant-pollinator interactions emphasize the role of pollinator-mediated selection in shaping floral scent composition. Nevertheless, phylogeny may constrain the metabolic pathways underlying these profiles, thereby influencing the evolutionary trajectory of the emitted signals. To investigate whether phylogenetic history constrains plant chemical communication, we used the obligate fig-fig wasp mutualism. We collected floral scents from receptive figs of 32 Ficus species, representing diverse lineages across tropical and subtropical regions, using dynamic headspace extraction. Chemical compositions were analyzed via gas chromatography-mass spectrometry and evaluated for the phylogenetic signal using multivariate analyses. Our results revealed a strong phylogenetic signal in the volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted by receptive figs. Conversely, using the same analysis, we found no relationship between the scent profile and the pollinator phylogeny. Our findings demonstrate, across diverse Ficus lineages, that phylogenetic constraints play a significant role in the diversification of VOC signals emitted by receptive flowers, suggesting constraints in the biosynthetic pathways of volatile compounds.

Disinfection of medical devices is crucial to patient safety. However, an incorrect selection of disinfectant can damage the material surface and impact its performance. Ti-Zr-Cu-Pd bulk metallic glasses (BMGs) show considerable potential for biomedical use, however standard sterilisation protocols remain undeveloped. This study evaluates the effects of common clinical disinfection solutions, including NaOH, NaClO, and Virkon®, on Ti-Zr-Cu-Pd BMGs, to assess their impact on surface characteristics (chemical composition, surface free energy) and on biocompatibility (pre-osteoblast cells behaviour). The findings aim to inform practical guidelines for safe and effective cleaning and sterilisation of devices that contain these alloys. • BMGs are now used as medical devices and need disinfection in surgical settings. • Cleaning routines with generic solutions can be inappropriate and damage substrates. • Disinfection protocols are undeveloped for TiZrCuPd Bulk Metallic Glasses. • Non-chlorinated disinfectants are recommended for TiZrCuPd BMGs. • Commercial grade hydroxides or hypochlorites are strongly discouraged.

The black soldier fly (BSF) (Hermetia illucens) has gained global economic relevance as a sustainable resource for animal feed, organic waste bioconversion, and the production of nutrient-rich frass for agricultural use. Its ability to convert low-value waste streams into high-value proteins, lipids, and fertilisers makes BSF a key component of emerging circular-economy models. However, the influence of vegetableand fruit waste (VFW) substrates on insect performance, nutrient composition, frass quality, and economic efficiency remains poorly defined. This study evaluated five substrate levels obtained by mixing laying hen feed with VFW at 0%, 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100%, assessing their effects on the growth performance, body measurements, chemical composition, frass characteristics, and economic traits of BSF larvae and prepupae. The results showed that up to 75% VFW can be used to rear BSF up to 23days of age without compromising growth traits. Substrate reduction ranged from 67.2% to 89.4%, and larval-to-prepupal conversion increased with feed intake. VFW level significantly affected larval and prepupal nutrient profiles, including dry matter, crude protein, ether extract, nitrogen-free extract, and chitin. Frass from the 100% VFW substrate exhibited the highest nutrient concentration, although this inclusion level impaired feed conversion due to elevated fibre content. Economic analysis indicated that using VFW can reduce substrate costs without negatively affecting revenue. Overall, a VFW inclusion level of up to 75% is recommended as the optimal balance between insect growth efficiency, nutrient recycling, and frass fertilising potential.

Matrix-dependent modulation of chemical composition, volatile profile, and biological activity of kombucha beverages from different tea types.

• Broken Orange Pekoe emerged as the best overall tea leaves for tea concentrate. • TPC, DPPH, and Tannins were the strongest predictors of sensory attributes. • SVR Outperformed XGB and RF in Predicting Sensory Quality. This study investigated physicochemical, biochemical, microbiological, and sensory changes in seven tea concentrate types during 30-day frozen storage (-18°C), and developed machine learning models to predict sensory quality from chemical parameters. Tea concentrates prepared from FBOP, FP, BOP, GBOP, CD, RD, and PF leaves underwent progressive transformations: total phenolic content declined 19–30%, theaflavins decreased 70–80%, while highly polymerized substances increased 7–15%. Sample 3 (Broken Orange Pekoe) achieved the highest sensory scores (38.76/45, "Excellent") through balanced polyphenol retention, while Sample 7 exhibited the poorest performance (35.31/45, "Moderate") due to severe degradation. All samples remained microbiologically safe (bacterial/fungal counts <10⁵ CFU/mL, no E. coli). Support Vector Regression demonstrated robust predictive capacity (R²=86.83–98.73%) for estimating sensory attributes from chemical composition. SHAP analysis revealed that total phenolic content, DPPH, and tannins consistently dominated sensory predictions, while theaflavins, despite traditional emphasis, showed relatively lower importance in concentrated matrices. This suggests polymerized phenolic products compensate for theaflavin loss during storage. The findings indicate that rapid chemical assays (TPC, DPPH, tannins) could serve as proxies for sensory assessment, potentially reducing reliance on resource-intensive sensory panels for quality monitoring.

The growing environmental concerns regarding petroleum-based plastics have accelerated research into sustainable, alternative materials such as bioplastics or biopolymers. Gelatin-starch blend bioplastics (SPBBs) have gained momentum in research as a possible solution due to their biodegradability, biobased resource and potential for many applications. However, the structural and functional properties of SPBBs, such as barrier performance and rigidity properties, depend on the starch source and the formulation method. This study focuses on characterising SPBBs from potato, tapioca, sago and swamp taro. The aim was to assess the influence of starch composition, evaluated by amylose and amylopectin % ratio, with a specific interest in the relationship between chemical composition and functional properties of the materials. Methods including Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray Diffraction (XRD), goniometry, water vapour permeability (WVP), oxygen permeability, and Dynamic Mechanical Analysis (DMTA) were used to evaluate the biopolymer’s structural integrity, composition and barrier properties. The results revealed no significant variation in amylose to amylopectin ratios and subtle differences in starch profiles; however, once incorporated with the other materials, homogenised profiles were seen. XRD analysis showed distinct polymorphic structures in the raw starches. However, the incorporation of gelatine disrupted the starch structures and inhibited the gelatine’s triple helix reconstitution. Surface Free Energy (SFE) analysis showed that potato SPBB demonstrated wettable potential; in contrast, lower SFE and critical surface tension (CST) values of sago SPBB indicated more hydrophobic surfaces, which is ideal for food packaging. The assessed barrier properties showed that SPBBs have good water barrier properties but poor oxygen permeabilities. DMTA results indicated that tapioca SPBB had the highest rigidity, while sago SPBB had properties more suitable for shock-absorbing material applications. Further research is needed to enhance the specific properties of these polymers for particular applications. • XRD identifed starch polymorphism and demonstrate starch alteration in starch-protein bioplastics. • FTIR confirmed homogenous blending of starch, gelatine, glycerol and water. • Sago SPBBs were most hydrophobic, impacting potential uses. • Tapioca SPBB showed the best relative performance among tested starches for oxygen-sensitive packaging. • Surface behaviour varied by starch types, possibly affecting the potential food contact.

Nocardia-derived metabolites as promising antibacterial and larvicidal agents against Anopheles stephensi (Diptera: Culicidae).

Bi-transition metal ions (Zn Ni) co-doping on the structural, optical, photodegradation using methylene blue dye, and antibacterial activity of FeMnO3 nanostructures

The lack of rapid screening and selection criteria limits the use of low–purity and common clays as supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs). Here the potential suitability as SCMs of 73 clays from 27 different geological formations, was investigated. Neither chemical composition nor kaolinite content were appropriate criteria to infer the calcined clays pozzolanic reactivity, which is the recommendation in existing guidelines. Clays exhibiting a total clay mineral content of ≥40 wt%, and a mica content below 60 wt% in the clay mineral fraction present moderate to high pozzolanic reactivity when calcined at 800 °C. Low–purity clays derived from kaolinitic Carboniferous formations, such as the Etruria and Pennine Coal Measures, consistently exhibited higher pozzolanic reactivity, compared with younger or marine–derived clays, particularly those from Jurassic, Cretaceous, and Quaternary aged-units. This new knowledge provides a novel guideline for the exploration and sourcing of promising clays for SCMs production globally.

Mold powders are essential in continuous casting of steel as they serve as a lubricant, protect the steel from oxidation, provide thermal insulation, absorb impurities, and control heat transfer between steel and mold. Industrial mold powders comprise various constituents and raw materials with distinct mineralogical and crystallographic features. This study presents a framework for accurate quantitative mineralogical analysis of SiO 2 –CaO–CaF 2 –Na 2 O–Al 2 O 3 mold powders for peritectic steel grades. Advanced characterization techniques, including Scanning Electron Microscopy based Automated Mineralogy (SEM–AM), image analysis, and Electron Probe Microanalyzer (EPMA) were employed to identify and quantify mineralogical species. Quantitative X-Ray powder Diffraction (QXRD) was applied to determine amorphous content and crystalline phases, further confirming the mineralogy. A reference powder with known composition was prepared in the laboratory to validate the characterization techniques. Accurate analysis methods for bulk chemical composition measurements are proposed including X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF), Fluorine Ion Selective Electrode (FISE), Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (F-AAS), and combustion analysis (LECO) with expansion of Simultaneous Thermal Analysis with Mass Spectrometry (STA–MS) to investigate free carbon and carbon-bearing components. Results demonstrate that this multimethodological framework is suitable for characterizing and quantifying raw materials with sufficient accuracy despite material complexity. Mineralogical analysis identified feldspars, pyroxenes, melilites, fluorides, carbonates, oxides, silicates, amorphous phases, and a free carbon source as the main constituents, and specific ratios of these raw materials are described. This work establishes quantitative mineralogical and chemical methodology that enables a more fundamental link between initial mold powder composition and thermophysical behavior. • The study introduces a multimethodological framework combining automated scanning electron microscopy, electron probe microanalysis, and quantitative X-ray diffraction with complementary chemical analysis techniques for full quantitative characterization of industrial mold powders. • Industrial mold powders have complex mineralogy, including wollastonite, fluorite, amorphous slag, sodium‑calcium double carbonates, feldspars, pyroxenes, melilites, and free carbon. • Validation with a laboratory reference powder confirms the accuracy of the quantitative approach. • The framework improves accuracy compared to single-method approaches and supports development of mold powders for continuous casting in steelmaking.