Gas Chromatograph-mass Spectrometer Research Articles

Measurement of Airborne Particles and Volatile Organic Compounds Produced During the Heat Treatment Process in Manufacturing Welding Materials

BackgroundThere is little information about the airborne hazardous agents released during the heat treatment when manufacturing a welding material. This study aimed to evaluate the airborne hazardous agents generated at welding material manufacturing sites through area sampling. Methodsconcentration of airborne particles was measured using a scanning mobility particle sizer and optical particle sizer. Total suspended particles (TSP) and respirable dust samples were collected on polyvinyl chloride filters and weighed to measure the mass concentrations. Volatile organic compounds and heavy metals were analyzed using a gas chromatography mass spectrometer and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer, respectively. ResultsThe average mass concentration of TSP was 683.1 ± 677.4 μg/m3, with respirable dust accounting for 38.6% of the TSP. The average concentration of the airborne particles less than 10 μm in diameter was 11.2–22.8 × 104 particles/cm3, and the average number of the particles with a diameter of 10–100 nm was approximately 78–86% of the total measured particles (<10 μm). In the case of volatile organic compounds, the heat treatment process concentration was significantly higher (p < 0.05) during combustion than during cooling. The airborne heavy metal concentrations differed depending on the materials used for heat treatment. The content of heavy metals in the airborne particles was approximately 32.6%. ConclusionsNanoparticle exposure increased as the number of particles in the air around the heat treatment process increases, and the ratio of heavy metals in dust generated after the heat treatment process is high, which may adversely affect workers' health.

Effects of ultraviolet and infrared radiation absence or presence on the aroma volatile compounds in winegrape during veraison

Light environmental factors have been identified to influence grape aromas greatly. Among them, the effect of non-visible light on grape aroma compounds has scarcely been investigated during grape growth and development. In the present study, ultraviolet (UV) or infrared (IR) radiation was eliminated in the grape bunch zone, and the grape bunches were irradiated with UV or IR light in vitro. The effect of UV and IR radiation on the grape aroma profile of the Cabernet Sauvignon variety was assessed by headspace solid phase microextraction gas chromatography mass spectrometer (HS-SPME GC–MS). A total of 16 aroma compounds were identified in the grape berries under UV radiation absence (UV-) or IR radiation absence (IR-). They were classified into aliphatic alcohols, aliphatic acids, benzenolds, aldehydes, and monoterpenes. A total of 23 aroma compounds were identified in the grape berries under UV radiation presence (UV+) or IR radiation presence (IR+), which were classified into aliphatic alcohols, aliphatic ketones, aliphatic esters, aliphatic acids, monoterpenes, aldehydes, volatile phenols, and other volatiles. Linalool and hexanal aroma compounds were the most responsive to UV- and UV+, according to OPLS-DA analysis. Hexanal was increased by UV- and decreased by UV+, thus was negatively correlated with UV radiation. Benzaldehyde and 2-decanone were also found as the main differing aroma compounds according to VIP scores in the IR- and IR+, respectively. The significant differences of aroma compounds in three UV and IR intensities were also observed by headspace gas chromatography-ion mobility spectrometry (HS-GC-IMS). The content of acetic acid, 2-methylbutanal, and pentanal were reduced with the radiation intensity increase, and the content of 2–3-butanedione, butyl acetate, and 1-hexanol was enhanced, especially with UV radiation. This study improves our understanding of the non-visible light role in volatile aroma compound accumulation and further expands on the useful wavelength for plant growth and development. Our study provides a theoretical basis for non-visible light field management and indoor plant growth applications.

Waste cooking oil processing over cobalt aluminate nanoparticles for liquid biofuel hydrocarbons production

The catalytic conversion of waste cooking oil (WCO) was carried out over a synthetic nano catalyst of cobalt aluminate (CoAl2O4) to produce biofuel range fractions. A precipitation method was used to create a nanoparticle catalyst, which was then examined using field-emission scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, energy dispersive X-ray, nitrogen adsorption measurements, high-resolution transmission electron Microscopy (HRTEM), infrared spectroscopy, while a gas chromatography-mass spectrometer (GC–MS) was used to analyze the chemical construction of the liquid biofuel. A range of experimental temperatures was looked at including 350, 375, 400, 425, and 450 °C; hydrogen pressure of 50, 2.5, and 5.0 MPa; and liquid hour space velocity (LHSV) of 1, 2.5, and 5 h−1. As temperature, pressure, and liquid hourly space velocity increased, the amount of bio-jet and biodiesel fractional products decreased, while liquid light fraction hydrocarbons increased. 93% optimum conversion of waste cooking oil over CoAl2O4 nano-particles was achieved at 400 °C, 50 bar, and 1 h−1 (LHSV) as 20% yield of bio-jet range,16% gasoline, and 53% biodiesel. According to the product analysis, catalytic hydrocracking of WCO resulted in fuels with chemical and physical characteristics that were on par with those required for fuels derived from petroleum. The study's findings demonstrated the nano cobalt aluminate catalyst's high performance in a catalytic cracking process, which resulted in a WCO to biofuel conversion ratio that was greater than 90%. In this study, we looked at cobalt aluminate nanoparticles as a less complex and expensive alternative to traditional zeolite catalysts for the catalytic cracking process used to produce biofuel and thus can be manufactured locally, which saves the cost of imports for us as a developing country.

Characterization of volatile organic compounds and submicron organic aerosol in a traffic environment

Abstract. Urban air consists of a complex mixture of gaseous and particulate species from anthropogenic and biogenic sources that are further processed in the atmosphere. This study investigated the characteristics and sources of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and submicron organic aerosol (OA) in a traffic environment in Helsinki, Finland, in late summer. The anthropogenic VOCs (aVOCs; aromatic hydrocarbons) and biogenic VOCs (bVOCs; terpenoids) relevant for secondary-organic-aerosol formation were analyzed with an online gas chromatograph mass spectrometer, whereas the composition and size distribution of submicron particles was measured with a soot particle aerosol mass spectrometer. This study showed that aVOC concentrations were significantly higher than bVOC concentrations in the traffic environment. The largest aVOC concentrations were measured for toluene (campaign average of 1630 ng m−3) and p/m xylene (campaign average of 1070 ng m−3), while the dominating bVOC was α-pinene (campaign average of 200 ng m−3). For particle-phase organics, the campaign-average OA concentration was 2.4 µg m−3. The source apportionment analysis extracted six factors for OA. Three OA factors were related to primary OA sources – traffic (24 % of OA, two OA types) and a coffee roastery (7 % of OA) – whereas the largest fraction of OA (69 %) consisted of oxygenated OA (OOA). OOA was divided into less oxidized semi-volatile OA (SV-OOA; 40 % of OA) and two types of low-volatility OA (LV-OOA; 30 %). The focus of this research was also on the oxidation potential of the measured VOCs and the association between VOCs and OA in ambient air. Production rates of the oxidized compounds (OxPR) from the VOC reactions revealed that the main local sources of the oxidation products were O3 oxidation of bVOCs (66 % of total OxPR) and OH radical oxidation of aVOCs and bVOCs (25 % of total OxPR). Overall, aVOCs produced a much smaller portion of the oxidation products (18 %) than bVOCs (82 %). In terms of OA factors, SV-OOA was likely to originate from biogenic sources since it correlated with an oxidation product of monoterpene, nopinone. LV-OOA consisted of highly oxygenated long-range or regionally transported OA that had no correlation with local oxidant concentrations as it had already spent several days in the atmosphere before reaching the measurement site. In general, the main sources were different for VOCs and OA in the traffic environment. Vehicle emissions impacted both VOC and OA concentrations. Due to the specific VOCs attributed to biogenic emissions, the influence of biogenic emissions was more clearly detected in the VOC concentrations than in OA. In contrast, the emissions from the local coffee roastery had a distinctive mass spectrum for OA, but they could not be seen in the VOC measurements due to the measurement limitations for the large VOC compounds. Long-range transport increased the OA concentration and oxidation state considerably, while its effect was observed less clearly in the VOC measurements due to the oxidation of most VOC in the atmosphere during the transport. Overall, this study revealed that in order to properly characterize the impact of different emission sources on air quality, health, and climate, it is of importance to describe both gaseous and particulate emissions and understand how they interact as well as their phase transfers in the atmosphere during the aging process.

Organochlorine pesticides and polychlorinated biphenyls in city drains in Makurdi, central Nigeria: Seasonal variations, source apportionment and risk assessment

A study of seasonal variation, sources and potential risks of organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in open city drains in Makurdi, Central Nigeria was carried out. OCPs and PCBs were quantified using gas chromatograph-mass spectrometer. The total (∑8OCPs) concentrations (ngL−1) of OCPs in water was 2.99 with a mean ± SD of 0.75 ± 0.12 during wet season, while during dry season, the values were 11.43 and 2.86 ± 1.54 respectively. In sediment, the total concentration (ngg−1) of OCPs was 5270.66 with a mean ± SD of 1756.89 ± 450.01 during wet season and a total concentration of 5837.93 and the mean ± SD of 1945.98 ± 646.04, during dry season. Source apportionment of OCPs suggested historic application of the pollutants. The total (∑7PCBs) concentration (ngL−1) of PCBs in water was 0.24 with a mean ± SD of 0.03 ± 0.02 during wet season and a total concentration of 0.61 with a mean ± SD of 0.09 ± 0.11 during dry season. The total concentration (ngg−1) of PCBs in sediment was 37.88, mean ± SD of 5.41 ± 5.93 during wet season and a total of 47.07 and mean ± SD of 6.72 ± 7.27 during dry season. Ecological risk assessment based on effect range low (ERL) and effect range median (ERM) or threshold effect level (TEL) and probable effect level (PEL) that ecological risks were possible for some OCPs in this study, which calls for source control and remediation of the affected sites. Toxicity equivalency (TEQ) of PCB-118, the dioxin-like congener, indicated that it was most harmful to humans/mammals followed by birds, then fish.

Abstract P3-03-06: A pilot study of personal care product use and exposure to environmental chemicals among Black and Hispanic breast cancer survivors

Abstract Objectives and rationale: Racial and ethnic minorities are disproportionately exposed to environmental chemicals that have been linked to cardiovascular disease, cognitive decline, metabolic disease, and premature mortality. Recent evidence suggests that personal care products are a source of such exposures and that these products are more frequently used among Black and Hispanic women. Minoritized populations also tend to experience worse breast cancer outcomes compared to White patients. However, few studies have examined personal care product use and environmental exposures among minority cancer survivors. The aim of the present study was to describe personal care product use and chemical exposures, including ambient and dermal sources of exposure, in a pilot study of Black and Hispanic breast cancer survivors. Methods: In November 2020 – December 2021, self-identified Black and Hispanic breast cancer survivors aged ≥21 years were recruited in Washington, DC and Hackensack, NJ. Eligible survivors had been diagnosed with primary Stage I-III breast cancer and had completed breast cancer treatment except endocrine therapy. Surveys collected data on demographics, breast cancer diagnosis, personal care product use, and potential covariates. Participants wore silicone wristbands for 1 week for passive sampling of environmental exposures. Extracts from the wristbands were assessed using a gas chromatograph-mass spectrometer to detect chemical exposures. Values were adjusted for wear time and wristband size to provide sample concentrations of detected chemicals. Results: Among the 25 study participants, 17 were Black and 8 were Hispanic, with a mean age of 58 years. Most survivors (58%) had been diagnosed with Stage I breast cancer. Survivors reported using perfume (52%), make-up (80%), and nail polish (68%) during the week, with common daily use of facial creams, lotions, or moisturizers (60%) and body creams, lotions, or moisturizers (68%). Drinking bottled water every day (64%) or most days (24%); eating prepared food from a fast food restaurant at least once per week (88%); and eating food reheated in a plastic container at least once per week (71%) were also prevalent. However, the majority of survivors reported never using pesticides indoors (76%) or outdoors (79%). The wristbands detected 60 distinct chemicals. On average, 21.8 chemicals were detected per wristband and 19 chemicals were detected in more than half of the samples. Exposure to flame retardants and pesticides was ubiquitous. All participants were exposed to chemicals found in personal care products and in commercial products. Several of the most commonly detected chemicals, including benzyl salicylate (a UV light absorber and fragrance), diisobutyl phthalate (a plasticizer), and lilial (a perfume), are biologically active compounds with potential genotoxic or endocrine effects. Discussion: Exposure to environmental chemicals was ubiquitous among Black and Hispanic breast cancer survivors in DC and New Jersey. Frequent use of personal care products and commercial products suggest an opportunity to reduce potentially harmful exposures. Future studies are needed to investigate the role of environmental chemicals in health outcomes among breast cancer survivors and whether environmental exposures contribute to cancer health disparities. Citation Format: Traci N. Bethea, Jennifer Hicks, Erin Speiser, Adana Llanos, Gail E. Starr, Chiranjeev Dash, Lucile L. Adams-Campbell. A pilot study of personal care product use and exposure to environmental chemicals among Black and Hispanic breast cancer survivors [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2022 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2022 Dec 6-10; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2023;83(5 Suppl):Abstract nr P3-03-06.

Chemical leaching from polyethylene mulching films to soil in strawberry farming

Mulching is a widely practiced agricultural technique able to boost crop productivity and to reduce weed growth and water evaporation. One of the most common materials used for mulching is polyethylene. Polyethylene films are known to contain phthalates, plasticizers recognized as endocrine disruptors, thus able to endanger the hormonal system. Only few data exist on the possible transfer of plasticizers from polyethylene mulching films to agricultural soil, especially in Europe, or on the potential implications for the environment and human health. In this study, we analyzed the occurrence of plasticizers such as phthalates and acetyl tributyl citrate from polyethylene mulching films and soil samples collected from strawberry fields where polyethylene films have been used. The samples were analyzed with a gas chromatograph-mass spectrometer and the results indicated that the soil exposed to polyethylene mulches contained a significantly higher concentration, compared to the control soil, of some of the most common plasticizers, including dibuthyl phthalate, benzylbutyl phthalate and acetyl tributyl citrate. These outcomes highlight the need to carry out further research to understand the potential risks that mulching practices can cause for the environment and human health.

Influence of octreotide on apoptosis and metabolome expression in lipopolysaccharide-induced A549 cells

Abstract Lung cancer shows a high rate of incidence and mortality. This study aimed to investigate the influence of octreotide (OCT) on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced apoptosis and metabolome expression in A549 cells. After A549 cells were treated by LPS or co-cultured with LPS and OCT, cell apoptosis was tested by flow cytometry, and gas chromatography-mass spectrometer (GC/MS) and high-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometer (LC/MS) were subjected to determine the differently expressed metabolites, and the interaction network was constructed. Results found that OCT promoted the apoptosis of A549 cells and significantly affected LPS-regulated cell apoptosis. Following the further investigation by orthogonal partial least squares discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA), the metabolites with different expression levels were obtained, and most of which belong to amino acids, phospholipids, organic acid, and saccharides. Fourteen components with the role of the marker metabolites included serotonin, indole, threonine, serine, glucose, phenylalanine, lactose, fumarate, 4-hydroxyphenyllactate, aspartate, asparagine, putrescine, proline, and succinate. It is indicated that OCT promotes apoptosis through five metabolism pathways and 14 key metabolism elements in A549 cells.

Physicochemical and microbiological characteristics of various stem bark extracts of Hopea beccariana Burck potential as natural preservatives of coconut sap

Abstract The bark of Hopea beccariana Burck is used to prevent damage to coconut sap. The purpose of this study was to determine the physicochemical and microbiological characteristics of various extracts of the bark of H. beccariana Burck as potential natural preservatives for coconut sap. The bark was extracted by maceration method for 24 h assisted by stirring using ethanol, methanol, n-hexane, and water at 60°C as solvent. The type of solvent used for extraction had a significant effect on the yield, total phenolic, total flavonoid, antioxidant activity, toxicity, and diameter of the inhibition zone against Lactobacillus plantarum. The highest yield was found in methanol extract at 22.34%, the highest total phenolic content was found in ethanol extract of 53.39 mg gallic acid equivalent/g extract, and the highest total flavonoid content was found in the aqueous extract at 60°C of 106.70 mg QE/g extract; all extracts have an IC50 value of 80.28–91.80 ppm (very strong antioxidant) and ascorbic acid of 5.78 ppm. Methanol extract is classified as very toxic with an LC50 of 38.21 ppm. The dominant compounds produced by gas chromatography–mass spectrometer were hexanedioic acid, bis(2-ethylhexyl) ester; ethyl oleate; 9-octadecenoic acid (Z)-, ethyl ester; and hexadecanoic acid, ethyl ester. The diameter of the inhibition zone for Saccharomyces cerevisiae was 13.50–14.72 mm, L. plantarum was 10.31–17.72 mm, and Leuconostoc mesenteroides was 13.25–18.06 mm. All extracts had minimum inhibitory concentration values of 2.5 mg/mL and minimum bactericidal concentration values of 2.5 mg/mL for n-hexane extract and 60°C water, while ethanol and methanol extracts had MBC values &gt;50 mg/mL.

Key odorant identification and odor treatment technology evaluation during the chemical synthesis process of typical pesticide

Odor pollution has become one of the important environmental problems in China. In this study, Gas Chromatography Ion Mobility Spectrometry (GC-IMS), Gas Chromatography Mass Spectrometer (GC-MS) and Flame Ionization Detector (FID) were combined to obtain comprehensive information of the odor produced during the production of Captan, a common pesticide, and to evaluate the efficiency of the odorant treatment techniques utilized by the manufacturer studied. Based on our findings, refining, an important phase during the production process of Captan, was found to be the most important factor in determining the type and the concentration of the odorant produced. Of the odorants found during the production process, perchloromethylmercaptan (CCl3SCl) and other chlorine-containing compounds are the key odorants during the production process based on the calculation of odor activity value (OAV). The current odorant treatment utilized by the manufacturer studied showed about 40 % removal rate. However, the odorant treatment produced a new odorant, dimethyl disulfide. Therefore, a much more targeted odorant treatment technique without the production of new odorants is desired and should be utilized.

Evaluation of hazards of electronic -cigarette’s liquid refill on testes of mice, complemented by histopathological and chromatographic analysis

ABSTRACT Electronic-cigarettes (e-cigarettes) are devices designed to become an alternative to classic cigarettes. Vaping of e-cigarettes and their recharge liquid have become extremely popular among the adolescents; however, its safety is not well established. Evaluation of the components of e-cigarette liquid and their potential effects on testis of adult male mice. This aim will be fulfilled by histological, ultrastructural, and immunohistochemical analysis of mice testis biopsies. Twenty mice were allocated into two groups of equal size. The control group was given regular saline, whereas the treated group was given e-liquid (contains 3 mg of nicotine/kg of body weight) both groups daily intraperitoneally injected for 3 weeks. Analysis of e-liquid by Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometric GC/MS demonstrated nicotine, phenol, vanillin, aldehydes, and pyrethroid insecticide. Evaluation of oxidative stress parameters revealed significant reduction of SOD and GPx. Histological results revealed a significant reduction in the height of seminiferous tubules, sloughing of spermatogenic cells, most cells being dark and pyknotic, and thickening of the interstitium with accumulation of PAS positive exudate. Most spermatogenic cells showed degenerative changes as rarefied cytoplasm, ill-defined electron-dense nuclei, and elongated spermatid showed deformity of ectoplasmic specialization. Immunohistochemical studies revealed a significant increase in caspase-3 positive cells and a significant reduction of area % of E-cadherin. The analysis of an available E-liquid demonstrated potentially harmful chemicals that are not shown in the labeling of the product. E-liquid appears to impair anti-oxidant defense and cause degenerative changes in the body and disruption of blood testes barrier BTB. So, e-cigarettes cannot be regarded as a non-harmful smoking replacement.

Separation and Analysis of Oxygen-Containing Compounds in a Shaanxi Middle/Low-Temperature Coal Tar.

A middle/low-temperature coal tar (M/LTCT) was obtained from a low-temperature carbonization plant in Shaanxi, China. The M/LTCT was separated into light components and coal tar pitch through extraction. A series of alkanes, aromatic hydrocarbons, oxygen-containing arenes (OCAs), and nitrogen-containing arenes were fractionated from light components by medium-pressure preparative chromatography with gradient elution using petroleum ether and ethyl acetate. They were analyzed using a gas chromatography-mass spectrometer (GC-MS) and a Fourier transform infrared spectrometer. The OCAs were analyzed by a Fourier transform Orbitrap MS (quadrupole exactive Orbitrap mass spectrometer), and the molecular distribution of the O 1-O 6 species was studied. OCAs are mainly oxygen-containing aromatic compounds, including aromatic phenols, furans, alkoxy aromatic hydrocarbons, aromatic ethers, aromatic aldehydes, aromatic ketones, and aromatic acids. The position of the oxygen atom on the aromatic ring and the condensation form of the aromatic ring are studied.

Pt–Co bimetals supported on UiO-66 as efficient and stable catalysts for the catalytic oxidation of various volatile organic compounds

Bimetallic catalysts exhibit excellent synergistic catalytic performance for volatile organic compounds (VOCs) oxidation. However, it remains challenging to design more active, selective, and stable bimetallic catalytic systems for the practical oxidation of various VOCs. Here, by integrating porous metal-organic frameworks as support, platinum as catalytic center, and cobalt as promoter, we obtained a synergistic and stable Pt–Co/UiO-66 catalytic system, with highly dispersed active sites for various VOCs oxidation. Pt–Co/UiO-66 exhibited better catalytic performances than monometallic constituents in toluene, n-hexane, and ethyl acetate oxidation. Besides, Pt–Co/UiO-66 showed high reusability, water or CO2 resistance, long-term activity over 120 h, and structural stability. Furthermore, the reaction pathway and mechanism of toluene oxidation were investigated by in-situ diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transform spectroscopy and online gas chromatography-mass spectrometer. We believe that this work will provide a useful idea for developing effective bimetallic catalysts in environmental catalysis.

Non-target scanning of organics from cooking emissions using comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography-mass spectrometer (GC×GC-MS)

Cooking emission is a major source influencing human health and air quality. To elucidate the emission pattern of cooking fumes, gaseous and particulate organics were sampled by Tenax TA desorption tubes and quartz filters, respectively. Organics were analyzed by a comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography-quadrupole mass spectrometer (GC × GC-qMS) coupled with a thermal desorption system (TDS). A non-target analysis was conducted identifying 166 (gas-phase) and 349 (particle-phase) compounds emitted from cooking fumes. We propose a four-step identification procedure, containing comparison with standards, homologs identification by selected ion chromatograms (SICs), searching spectrums in the National Institute of Standard Technology (NIST) library, and recognitions of unresolved complex mixtures (UCMs). The identified organics are then quantified or semi-quantified by surrogates in the same chemical class with an uncertainty of 27%. Intermediate volatility organic compounds (IVOCs) are extensively detected accounting for 20.5% and 81.4% of the total mass concentration and emission rates (ERs) in gas- and particle-phase samples. Aldehydes (30.6%) and acids (82.7%) dominate the mass concentration of organics in the gas- and particle-phase, respectively. Our work provides a detailed identification procedure in the non-target analysis and emphasizes the importance of IVOC measurement in cooking emissions.

Phytochemical, GC-MS, FTIR and Amino acid profile of methanol extract of Tetrapleura tetraptera fruit

The methanolic fruit extract of Tetrapleura tetraptera was analyzed for the presence of phytocompounds, their bioactivity, the functional groups involved in this activity, and its amino acid profile using standard procedures. Phytochemicals such as tannins, phenols, flavonoids, and alkaloids were identified as being highly present. Gas chromatographic-mass spectrometric (GC-MS) analysis identified 16 bioactive compounds, with 2-thiopheneethanol (58.77%) being the most abundant. Curcumin, with the most diverse pharmacological role, and other bioactive compounds such as cedren-13-ol, 8 (1.56%), N-benzyl stearamide (4.46%), a prominent fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) inhibitor; pthalic acid, butyl undecyl ester (1.49%); and phenol, 2, 6-bis (1,1 dimethyl ethyl) (1.46%), were also present. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) analysis confirmed the presence of alkanes, esters, benzene rings, aliphatic, sulfonic acid, and methylene chains. Also, the amino acid analysis of the T. tetraptera revealed that the fruit contains 18 amino acids. Leucine (4.20%), phenylalanine (3.37%), and valine (3.25%) were the most abundant essential amino acids identified, with glutamic (7.20%) and aspartic acid (5.61%) having the highest concentrations as non-essential amino acids. This therefore indicates that T. tetraptera fruit could be used as a pharmacological or therapeutic agent as well as a dietary condiment, particularly at this time when there is a demand for novel protein sources.&#x0D; Keywords: Tetrapleura tetraptera, phytochemicals, GC-MS, FTIR, amino acid, curcumin

Preparation and characterization of chitosan nanoparticles loaded with Athyrium sinense essential oil with antibacterial properties against Pectobacterium carotovorum subsp. carotovorum

Pectobacterium carotovorum subsp. carotovorum (Pcc) was a pathogen that could cause serious soft rot disease of Chinese cabbage. In order to control Pcc, Athyrium sinense essential oil-loaded chitosan nanoparticles (AEO-loaded CSNPs) was obtained by embedding the Athyrium sinense essential oil (AEO) in chitosan nanoparticles (CSNPs) through ion gel method, and it was characterized and further evaluated for the antibacterial properties. The results of gas chromatography-mass spectrometer (GC-MS) analysis showed that the main components of AEO were n-hexadecanoic acid (32.18%), linoleic acid (18.28%), phytol (8.67%), fitone (4.79%), α-linolenyl alcohol (2.54%), isophytol (2.04%) and hexadecanoic acid methyl (2.03%). When chitosan (CS)/AEO ratio was 1:0.25, zeta potential was 25.7 mv, entrapment efficiency (EE) was 48.43% and loading capacity (LC) was 6.23%. These indices reached the maximum value, showing that ratio of 1:0.25 was the optimal condition for the preparation of AEO-loaded CSNPs. Therefore, AEO-loaded CSNPs prepared by using CS/AEO ratio of 1:0.25 was used for further characterization. The AEO-loaded CSNPs observed by atomic force microscopy exhibited regular shapes. Thermogravimetric analysis, fourier transform infrared, and X-ray diffraction results indicated that AEO-loaded CSNPs were effectively loaded with AEO and AEO-loaded CSNPs were successfully prepared. Finally, the antibacterial properties of AEO-loaded CSNPs were evaluated by MIC and MBC, in vitro release (within 48 h), time-kill curve (within 60 h) and in vivo experiments (within 72 h). The MIC and MBC of AEO-loaded CSNPs were 0.16 mg/mL and 0.63 mg/mL, respectively. The MIC and MBC results indicated that AEO-loaded CSNPs effectively enhanced the antibacterial activity of AEO. In vitro release results indicated that AEO-loaded CSNPs was consistent with the behavior of Fickian release and had the excellent release properties. Time-kill curve results indicated that AEO-loaded CSNPs had the characteristics of sustainability and stability. In vivo experiments (incubation for 72 h at 28 °C) showed that preventive and therapeutic effects of AEO-loaded CSNPs were 82.5% and 80.43%, which indicated that CSNP system effectively improved the in vivo effects of AEO. In conclusion, AEO-loaded CSNPs could be used as an effective antibacterial agent to control Pcc.

Ultrasonic Extraction of Phenolic Compounds from Eggplant Peel and Formulation of Eggplant Peel Extract-Enriched Ice-Cream

In this study, ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) was used for the extraction of bioactive compounds from eggplant peels (EPP) and conditions were optimized by using response surface methodology (RSM). Methanol concentrations (60%, 70%, and 80%), time (30 min, 45 min, and 60 min), and temperature (30°C, 45°C, and 60°C) were selected as independent extraction parameters, whereas total anthocyanin content (TAC), DPPH inhibition, and total phenolic content (TPC) were response variables. The optimal extraction was at 45°C for 45 min of extraction time with 70% solvent which corresponded to TAC, TPC, and DPPH inhibition values of 7.94 mg/g, 7.03 mg GAE/g, and 94.8%, respectively. The optimized EPP extract was chemically characterized by a Fourier-transform infrared spectrometer (FTIR), high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), and a gas chromatography mass spectrometer (GCMS). The optimized extract was further evaluated for antioxidant and anticancer potential. For antioxidant and anticancer potential, the corresponding IC50 values of the EPP extract were 243.2 μg/ml and 1.52–1.99 mg/ml, respectively. Furthermore, the EPP extract significantly inhibited the migratory ability of cancer cells in a dose-dependent manner. Major components identified in the EPP extract were chlorogenic acid (261.76 mg/kg), benzoic acid (184.41 mg/kg), syringic acid (78.48 mg/kg), p-coumaric acid (49.59 mg/kg), cinnamic acid (32.17 mg/kg), quercetin (5.24 mg/kg), sinapic acid (5.14 mg/kg), and gallic acid (4.34 mg/kg). The EPP extract-enriched ice-cream showed high antioxidant potential and consumer acceptability than the blank ice-cream formulation. The EPP extract, due to its antioxidant and anticancer potential, can be used in the formulation of functional food products.

Phytol as a hepatoprotective compound in the leaves of Eichhornia crassipes

Water hyacinth is undoubtedly an environmental problem due to its invasiveness, but it also has some promising futures. It might be preferable to consider the specific attributes of each environment where the plant grows. When there are facilities available to fully utilize this plant's potential, efforts should be focused on maximizing its growth. It has been shown that secondary metabolites, such as phenolic and anti-oxidant components, play a crucial role in the chemical defenses of plants against invaded microscopic organisms. This test was conducted to analyze whether Eichhornia crassipes leaves contained antioxidants or the hepatoprotectant. The ethyl acetate-fractionated hydroethanolic extract was used for the analysis. Using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometer (GC-MS), and High-Pressure Liquid Chromatography, the bioactive components of the ethyl acetate fraction of the hydroethanolic extract of the leaves of E. crassipes (Mart.) Solms were analyzed. The GC-MS analysis of the extract revealed the presence of phytol, a constituent that is essential for hepatoprotection. The human body needs phytol for its benefits. Phytol may also be considered a potential new drug and treatment for hepatic dysfunction. The numerous substances found in plants used in traditional medicine can be used to treat several ailments. The majority of people follow traditional medicine, which contains substances derived from medicinal plants, is practiced. Therefore, research into these plants is necessary to better understand their characteristics, safety, and effectiveness. Hence, the present work aimed to evaluate the protective efficacy of the leaf extract of E. crassipes against fluoride-induced toxicity.

Quantitative assessments of GHG and VOCs emissions of asphalt pavement contained steel slag

Using steel slag aggregate in asphalt pavement is recognized as novel alternative to enhance the environmental benefits, however, lacking quantitative analysis on its air components emissions largely hinders the fulfilment of sustainable road development. The study conducted the comparative research for the steel slag and the natural aggregate asphalt pavement from asphalt volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The self-assembled gas generator and gas chromatography-mass spectrometer (GC–MS) were used to study the characteristics of asphalt VOCs. Moreover, the GHG emissions of asphalt pavement life cycle have been quantified with a prospective life cycle assessment (LCA). Different from traditional cognition, the research results showed that using steel slag aggregate in asphalt mixture would cause more asphalt VOCs and GHG emissions than natural aggregate in the life cycle of asphalt pavement. Specifically, comparing to the natural aggregate, the asphalt pavement contained steel slag aggregate generated extra 2 % to 30 % concentrations for primary VOCs components, and 11.86 t equivalent CO2 in the 20-year life cycle of asphalt pavement. The study provides valued reference for air pollution controlling and low-carbon development of asphalt pavement.

Experimental Study on Optimizing Steam Solvent Co-Injection Process in Akan Carbonate Oilfield

Steam solvent co-injection processes are generating considerable interest in terms of improving heavy oil upgrading in unconventional reservoirs. The characteristics of the opted solvents in the field have not been dealt with in depth. This paper presents a study on selecting the most optimal solvent for the Akan oilfield enhanced oil recovery (EOR). The first step in this work consisted of determining the Akan oil field viscosity, through an elemental and SARA analyses. Next, a set of physical and chemical methods was used to understand the mechanism of solvents’ effect on oil viscosity dynamics. The compositions of the used solvents were analyzed by a gas chromatography-mass spectrometer system equipped with a mass selective detector ISQ (USA). The evidence from the present study suggests that toluene and o-xylene are the most optimal solvents for enhancing the Akan oil recovery and reducing its viscosity. The obtained data demonstrated a higher efficiency of the used solvents on the oil viscosity reduction where the maximum oil viscosity reduction was observed in the presence of toluene, which led to a value of 178.1 mPa.s. Moreover, the obtained results reported that the solvent co-injection process efficiency increases gradually depending on the chemical composition of the used solvent, as witnessed by the obtained oil recovery factor (RF) values. It has been found that the oil recovery factor values during the capillary soaking in the presence of water was equal to 20%, in the presence of o-xylene it was equal to 61%, and in the presence of toluene, it was equal to 69%. Likewise, a similar efficiency behavior has been demonstrated during filtration experiments where water led to a 26% recovery factor, o-xylene to 69%, and toluene to 78%, meanwhile the solvent slug led to 65%. The results of this study would seem to suggest that the viscosity of the investigated oil decreases in the presence of aromatic solvents, such as toluene and o-xylene, as witnessed by the recovery factors they demonstrated. A consequence of these changes is the possibility that aromatic solvent molecules tend to separate the asphaltene layers and reduce the overlap between large asphaltene macromolecules, which leads to the dissociation of asphaltene aggregates.