Detailed investigation of the binding abilities of the heterodomain of a multiHis cyclopeptide toward Cu(II) ions

Cyclopeptides hold significant relevance in various fields of science and medicine, due to their unique structural properties and diverse biological activities. Cyclic peptides, characterized by intrinsically higher conformational order, exhibit remarkable stability and resistance to proteolytic degradation, making them attractive candidates for developing targeted drug delivery systems. The aim of this work is to elucidate the unique coordination properties of the multi-His cyclic peptide with c(HDHKHPHHKHHP) sequence (HDCP - heterodomain cyclopeptide). This peptide, indeed, is able to form homo- and hetero-dinuclear complexes in a wide pH range, being thus a good chelator for Cu(II) ions. Herein, we present the results of a combined study, involving potentiometric, spectroscopic (UV-Vis, CD, and EPR), and computational investigations, on its coordination properties. To better understand the interaction pattern with Cu(II) metal ions, two other peptides, each one bearing only one of the two binding domains of HDCP are also considered in this study: c(HDHKHPGGKGGP) = CP1, c(GKGGKPHHKHHP) = CP2, which share sequence fragments of HDCP and allow separate investigations of its coordination domains.

Estimation of stability constants of Fe(III) with antibiotics and dissolved organic matter using a novel UV-vis spectroscopy method

Determining conditional stability constant (Kcond) is paramount in assessing complex stability, particularly in Fe(III) complexes that are prevalent in actual surface water and wastewater matrices. In this study, existing methods of Kcond determination were evaluated and a novel UV-Vis spectroscopy method was proposed based on the evaluation of these approaches. Model ligands (ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), nitrilotriacetic acid (NTA), and oxalic acid (OA)), as well as common antibiotics (kanamycin (Kana) and tetracycline (TTC)), were employed to determine the Kcond of the Fe(III)-ligand complexes under neutral conditions (pH 6.5). The obtained fitting results revealed that the logKcond were in the order of Fe(III)-EDTA (7.08) > Fe(III)-NTA (4.67) > Fe(III)-OA (4.32) > Fe(III)-TTC (4.28) > Fe(III)-Kana (3.07). In addition to these single ligands, the methodology was extended to the Fe(III) complexation with humic acid (HA), a complex mixture of organic components, where the fitting result indicated a logKcond of 5.02 M-1. The method's application domain was analyzed by numerical analysis and combined with experimental results. The findings demonstrate that the proposed methodology possesses satisfactory measurement capability for Kcond ranging from 103 to 107 M-1, suggesting its broad applicability to the majority of complexes. This method can provide valuable insights into the impact of Fe(III) complexes within the water matrix.

Turning chaotic sample group clusterization into organized ones by feature selection: Application on photodiagnosis of Brucella abortus serological test

Bovine brucellosis diagnosis is a major problem to be solved; the disease has a tremendous economic impact with significant losses in meat and dairy products, besides the fact that it can be transmitted to humans. The sanitary measures instituted in Brazil are based on disease control through diagnosis, animal sacrifice, and vaccination. Although the currently available diagnostic tests show suitable quality parameters, they are time-consuming, and the incidence of false-positive and/or false-negative results is still observed, hindering effective disease control. The development of a low-cost, fast, and accurate brucellosis diagnosis test remains a need for proper sanitary measures at a large-scale analysis. In this context, spectroscopy techniques associated with machine learning tools have shown great potential for use in diagnostic tests. In this study, bovine blood serum was investigated by UV-vis spectroscopy and machine learning algorithms to build a prediction model for Brucella abortus diagnosis. Here we first pre-treated the UV raw data by using Standard Normal Deviate method to remove baseline deviation, then apply principal component analysis - a clustering method - to observe the group formation tendency; the first results showed no clustering tendency with a messy sample score distribution, then we properly select the main principal components to improve clusterization. Finally, by using machine learning algorithms (SVM and KNN), the predicting models achieved a 92.5% overall accuracy. The present methodology provides a test result in an average time of 5 min, while the standard diagnosis, with the screening and confirmatory tests, can take up to 48 h. The present result demonstrates the method's viability for diagnosing bovine brucellosis, which can significantly contribute to disease control programs in Brazil and other countries.

The binding of nitrogen-donor ligands to the ferric and ferrous forms of cytochrome P450 enzymes

The cytochrome P450 superfamily of heme-thiolate monooxygenase enzymes can catalyse various oxidation reactions. The addition of a substrate or an inhibitor ligand induces changes in the absorption spectrum of these enzymes and UV-visible (UV-vis) absorbance spectroscopy is the most common and readily available technique used to interrogate their heme and active site environment. Nitrogen-containing ligands can inhibit the catalytic cycle of heme enzymes by interacting with the heme. Here we evaluate the binding of imidazole and pyridine-based ligands to the ferric and ferrous forms of a selection of bacterial cytochrome P450 enzymes using UV-visible absorbance spectroscopy. The majority of these ligands interact with the heme as one would expect for type II nitrogen directly coordinated to a ferric heme-thiolate species. However, the spectroscopic changes observed in the ligand-bound ferrous forms indicated differences in the heme environment across these P450 enzyme/ligand combinations. Multiple species were observed in the UV-vis spectra of the ferrous ligand-bound P450s. None of the enzymes gave rise to the isolation of a single species with a Soret band at ∼442-447 nm, indicative of a 6-coordinate ferrous thiolate species with a nitrogen-donor ligand. A ferrous species with Soret band at ∼427 nm coupled with an α-band of increased intensity was observed with the imidazole ligands. With some enzyme-ligand combinations reduction resulted in breaking of the iron‑nitrogen bond yielding a 5-coordinate high-spin ferrous species. In other instances, the ferrous form was readily oxidised back to the ferric form on addition of the ligand.

Characterizing the effects of stormwater runoff on dissolved organic matter in an urban river (Jiujiang, Jiangxi province, China) using spectral analysis

The effect of stormwater runoff on dissolved organic matter (DOM) in rivers is one of the central topics in water environment research. Jiujiang is one of the first cities established in the green development demonstration zone of the Yangtze River Economic Belt (Jiangxi Province, China). Three-dimensional excitation-emission matrix fluorescence with parallel factor analysis (3DEEM-PARAFAC) and ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) spectroscopy were used to explore the effects of runoff on organic matter in Shili River (Jiujiang, Jiangxi Province, China). The results show that the runoff led to an increase of some critical pollutants and DOM concentrations, especially in the middle reaches of the river. The concentration and relative molecular weight of DOM in water increased as a result of runoff. Three humic-like (C1-C3) and two protein-like (C4 and C5) components of DOM were identified using the PARAFAC model. The sources of the three humic-like components (C1, C2, C3) were consistent, unlike those of the protein-like component C4. Compared with the pre-rainfall period, the content of humus compounds flowing into the river through the early rainwater runoff was lower, which caused the relative content and proportion of humic substances little change and protein-like species increasing. The DOM mainly derived from autochthonous sources, and runoff had limited effect on its characteristics. Jiujiang is a key demonstration city for Yangtze River conservation. Rainwater runoff is one of the pollution sources of urban rivers, which leads to the deterioration of water quality and influences the distribution characteristics of DOM in water bodies. The PARAFAC components could adequately represent different indicators and sources of DOM in urban rivers, providing an important reference for urban river management.

Separation of the overlapped humic acid and BGP characteristic peaks using two-dimensional correlation fluorescence-UV-vis spectroscopy

Fluorescence spectroscopy has been widely used to detect polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in the environment. However, the interference of coexisting humic acids (HA) in the environment poses a great challenge to the qualitative and quantitative detection of PAHs using fluorescence spectroscopy. In this study, the spectral properties of benzo [ghi] perylene (BGP) and HA were investigated based on fluorescence and UV-vis spectroscopy combined with two-dimensional (2D) correlation analysis. Under the external disturbance of HA concentration, the homo-2D (fluorescence, UV-visible) correlation and hetero-2D fluorescence-UV-visible correlation spectral characteristics of the mixed samples of HA and BGP were studied, and the effect of HA on the fluorescence of BGP was investigated. It can be inferred that the fluorescence peak at 478 nm come from BGP, and the fluorescence peaks at 442 nm and 533 nm, UV absorption peak at 233 nm come from HA. Meanwhile, asynchronous two-trace two-dimensional (2T2D) fluorescence correlation slice spectra at 533 nm were obtained. The slice spectral intensity at 478 nm was extracted to quantify the BGP concentration in mixture. The results showed that the slice spectral intensity and BGP concentration had a good linear relationship with the coefficient of determination R² = 0.96. This research provides a way to further study the separation method of HA and PAHs or explore the correction method of the effect of HA on PAHs.

In-line monitoring of solid dispersion preparation in small scale extrusion based on UV-vis spectroscopy

The poor solubility of a large number of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) is a major challenge in pharmaceutical research. Therefore, the extrusion of amorphous solid dispersions (ASDs) is one promising approach to enhance the dissolution rate by molecularly dissolving the API in an amorphous carrier polymer. During ASD extrusion, crucial parameters as the dissolution of the API in the carrier polymer need to be monitored. Within this study, a small scale twin screw extruder was coupled with special ColVisTec UV-vis probes that are characterized by their small dimensions. This setup enables a systematic formulation design and optimization based on in-line monitoring of drug dissolution using small material quantities. In fact, sample quantities of about 5 mg were evaluated for each measurement, representing 50% of the material inside the die. The amount of undissolved drug particles was determined based on the lightness of the extrudates. It was shown that the temperature has a significant effect on the drug dissolution in the polymer. Furthermore, complete drug dissolution was shifted to lower temperatures if higher residence times were applied. Based on the courses of lightness, regime maps were modeled that specify the process conditions where ASDs are successfully manufactured.

Nitrosylation of ferric zebrafish nitrobindin: A spectroscopic, kinetic, and thermodynamic study

Nitrobindins (Nbs) are all-β-barrel heme-proteins present in all the living kingdoms. Nbs inactivate reactive nitrogen species by sequestering NO, converting NO to HNO₂, and isomerizing peroxynitrite to NO₃^- and NO₂^-. Here, the spectroscopic characterization of ferric Danio rerio Nb (Dr-Nb(III)) and NO scavenging through the reductive nitrosylation of the metal center are reported, both processes being relevant for the regulation of blood flow in fishes through poorly oxygenated tissues, such as retina. Both UV-Vis and resonance Raman spectroscopies indicate that Dr-Nb(III) is a mixture of a six-coordinated aquo- and a five-coordinated species, whose relative abundancies depend on pH. At pH ≤ 7.0, Dr-Nb(III) binds reversibly NO, whereas at pH ≥ 7.8 NO induces the conversion of Dr-Nb(III) to Dr-Nb(II)-NO. The conversion of Dr-Nb(III) to Dr-Nb(II)-NO is a monophasic process, suggesting that the formation of the transient Dr-Nb(III)-NO species is lost in the mixing time of the rapid-mixing stopped-flow apparatus (∼ 1.5 ms). The pseudo-first-order rate constant for the reductive nitrosylation of Dr-Nb(III) is not linearly dependent on the NO concentration but tends to level off. Values of the rate-limiting constant (i.e., k_lim) increase linearly with the OH^- concentration, indicating that the conversion of Dr-Nb(III) to Dr-Nb(II)-NO is limited by the OH^--based catalysis. From the dependence of k_lim on [OH^-], the value of the second-order rate constant k_OH- was obtained (5.2 × 10³ M^-1 s^-1). Reductive nitrosylation of Dr-Nb(III) leads to the inactivation of two NO molecules: one being converted to HNO_2, and the other being tightly bound to the heme-Fe(II) atom.

Measurement of kinetic isotope effects on peptide hydroxylation using MALDI-MS

Primary kinetic isotope effects (KIEs) provide unique insight into enzymatic reactions, as they can reveal rate-limiting steps and detailed chemical mechanisms. HIF hydroxylases, part of a family of 2-oxoglutarate (2OG) oxygenases are central to the regulation of many crucial biological processes through O2-sensing, but present a challenge to monitor due to the large size of the protein substrate and the similarity between native and hydroxylated substrate. MALDI-TOF MS is a convenient tool to measure peptide masses, which can also be used to measure the discontinuous kinetics of peptide hydroxylation for Factor Inhibiting HIF (FIH). Using this technique, rate data can be observed from the mole-fraction of CTAD and CTAD-OH in small volumes, allowing noncompetitive H/D KIEs to be measured. Slow dCTAD substrate leads to extensive uncoupling of O2 consumption from peptide hydroxylation, leading to enzyme autohydroxylation, which is observed using UV-vis spectroscopy. Simultaneously measuring both the normal product, CTAD-OH, and the uncoupled product, autohydroxylated enzyme, the KIE on the microscopic step of hydrogen atom transfer (HAT) can be estimated. MALDI-MS analysis is a strong method for monitoring reactions that hydroxylate peptides, and can be generalized to other similar reactions, and simultaneous kinetic detection of branched products can provide valuable insight on microscopic KIEs at intermediate mechanistic steps.

Effect of solvents and glutathione on the decomposition of the nitrosyl iron complex with N-ethylthiourea ligands: An experimental and theoretical study

Dinitrosyl iron complexes (DNICs) are a depot and potential source of free NO in organisms. Their synthetic analog, N-ethylthiourea DNIC [Fe(SC(NH₂)(NHC₂H₅))₂(NO)₂]⁺Cl^-∙[Fe(SC(NH₂)(NHC₂H₅))Cl(NO)₂]⁰ (complex 1), as cardioprotective and cytostatic agent is a promising prodrug for the treatment of socially relevant diseases. In this work, transformation mechanism of complex 1 has been studied in anaerobic aqueous solution (pH = 7.0), DMSO, and ethanol. It was shown that the solvent has a significant effect on the decomposition of complex. According to EPR-spectroscopy, only cationic part of complex is found upon its dissolution in water; only neutral part is retained in DMSO, and both fragments are present in ethanol. Effective generation of NO occurs in an aqueous solution. The structures of the decomposition products were proposed for all solvents, their UV-spectra and rate constants were calculated. From the experimental and theoretical data obtained, it follows that complex 1 is most stable in DMSO. Solutions of complex in a DMSO-water mixture can be used to improve its bioavailability in further in vitro and in vivo studies. Also, we have analyzed its interaction with glutathione (GSH), which can participate in the metabolism of this compound. This study shows that complex 1 reacts with GSH to form a new binuclear DNIC with two GS^--ligands. It was found that the resulting complex is a more prolonged NO-donor than the initial one: k = 6.1∙10^-3·s^-1 in buffer, k = 6.4∙10^-5 s^-1 with GSH. This reaction may prevent S-glutathionylation of the essential enzyme systems and is important for metabolism of complex, associated with its antitumor activity.

In-situ quantitative monitoring the organic contaminants uptake onto suspended microplastics in aquatic environments

Microplastics act as a source of organic contaminants in aquatic environments and thus affect their environmental fate and toxicity. Because of the weak and reversible interactions between microplastics and organic species, the organic coronas vary with their surrounding environments. Thus, in order to evaluate the possible environmental risks of microplastics, methods for evaluating the dynamic uptake of organic contaminants onto suspended microplastics in aquatic environments are greatly desired. In this work, a UV-vis spectroscopy-based approach was developed for in-situ monitoring organic contaminants uptake onto suspended microplastics after correcting the light scattering interference from microplastics suspensions and establishing the nonlinear relationship between concentration and light absorbance of organic species. The inverse adding-doubling method based on radiative transfer theory was adopted to correct the light scattering effect of suspensions. Then, the resulting mixed absorption spectra were decomposed to calculate the concentrations of the aqueous and adsorbed organic species simultaneously with a nonlinear calibration method. The uptake processes of bisphenol A and p-nitrophenol onto nylon 66 microparticles were monitored with this approach and confirmed by high-performance liquid chromatography analysis. The approach was validated by applying it to natural water samples, and the equilibrium adsorption capacity was found to be interfered mainly by the protein-like substances. This approach has high accuracy, good reproducibility, remarkable universality, and ease of handling, and also provides a potential tool for characterizing the corona formation process on suspended particles both in natural and artificial environments, such as eco-corona formation and engineering surface modification on nano/micro-particles.

Dinuclear platinum(II) complexes as the pattern for phosphate backbone binding: a new perspective for recognition of binding modes to DNA

The mechanism of action of most approved drugs in use today is based on their binding to specific proteins or DNA. One of the achievements of this research is a new perspective for recognition of binding modes to DNA by monitoring of changes in measured and stoichiometric values of absorbance at 260 nm. UV-Vis and IR spectroscopy, gel electrophoresis and docking study were used for investigation of binding properties of three dinuclear platinum(II) complexes containing different pyridine-based bridging ligands, [{Pt(en)Cl}₂(μ-4,4'-bipy)]Cl₂·2H₂O (Pt1), [{Pt(en)Cl}₂(μ-bpa)]Cl₂·4H₂O (Pt2) and [{Pt(en)Cl}₂(μ-bpe)]Cl₂·4H₂O (Pt3) to DNA (4,4'-bipy, bpa and bpe are 4,4'-bipyridine, 1,2-bis(4-pyridyl)ethane and 1,2-bis(4-pyridyl)ethene, respectively). In contrast to the system with well-known intercalated ligand (EtBr), covalently bound ligand (cis-Pt) and with minor groove binder (Hoechst 33258), which do not have significant differences in measured and stoichiometric values, the most pronounced deviations are recorded for two dinuclear platinum(II) complexes (Pt1 and Pt2), as a consequence of complex binding to the phosphate backbone and bending of DNA helix. The hydrolysis of complexes and changes in DNA conformation were also analysed as phenomena that may have an impact on the changes in absorbance.

A strategy for mitigating avian colibacillosis disease using plant growth promoting rhizobacteria and green synthesized zinc oxide nanoparticles

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ZnO-NPs showed strong antagonism against E. coli causing avian colibacillosis disease.

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The 90 mg/ml of ZnO-NPs was more effective.

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A combination of ZnO-NPs and Pseudomonas sp. show higher antagonism.

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Docking analysis exhibited that ZnO binds with PBP 6 protein receptor like other ligands.

Avian colibacillosis caused by the zoonotic pathogen Escherichia coli is a common bacterial infection that causes major losses in the poultry sector. Extracts of different medicinal plants and antibiotics have been used against poultry bacterial pathogens. However, overuse of antibiotics and extracts against pathogenic strains leads to the proliferation of multi-drug resistant bacteria. Due to their environmentally friendly nature, nanotechnology and beneficial bacterial strains can be used as effective strategies against poultry infections. Green synthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) from Eucalyptus globulus leaves was carried out in this study. Their characterization was done by UV–vis spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Fourier transmission infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) which confirmed their synthesis, structure, and size. In vitro, antimicrobial activities of plant leaf extract, ZnO-NPs, and plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) were checked against E. coli using well diffusion as well as disc diffusion method. Results proved that the antimicrobial activity of ZnO-NPs and PGPR strains was more enhanced when compared to eucalyptus leaf extract at 36 h. The maximum relative inhibition shown by ZnO-NPs, PGPR strains and eucalyptus leaf extracts was 88%, 67% and 58%, respectively. The effectiveness of ZnO-NPs was also increased with an increase in particle dose and treatment time. The 90 mg/ml of ZnO-NPs was more effective. PGPR strains from all over the tested strains, Pseudomonas sp. (HY8N) exhibited a strong antagonism against the E. coli strain as compared to other PGPR strains used in this study. However, combined application of PGPR (Pseudomonas sp. (HY8N)) and ZnO-NPs augment antagonistic effects and showed maximum 69% antagonism. The study intends to investigate the binding affinity of ZnO-NPs with the suitable receptor of the bacterial pathogen by in silico methods. The binding site conformations showed that the ligand ZnO binds with conserved binding site of penicillin-binding protein 6 (PBP 6) receptor. According to the interactions, ZnO-NPs form the same interaction pattern with respect to other reported ligands, hence it can play a significant role in the inhibition of PBP 6. This research also found that combining ZnO-NPs with Pseudomonas sp. (HY8N) was a novel and effective technique for treating pathogenic bacteria, including multidrug-resistant bacteria.

Selective, pH sensitive, "turn on" fluorescence sensing of carbonate ions by a benzimidazole

Anions play crucial roles in the sustenance of life on earth in many ways. Selective detection of specific anions is important in developing new diagnostic tools and therapeutics. A pH-sensitive & selective benzimidazole-based fluorescent sensor has been developed for rapid detection of carbonate ions which can detect carbonate ions in low nanomolar concentrations. NMR based experiments indicate direct interaction of benzimidazole imino protons with the carbonate ions leading to 1:1 ligand carbonate ion complexation events. This is one of the first reports of benzimidazole sensing carbonate ions with high selectivity which may have implications in disease prevention and toxicity assessment.

Simultaneous Determination of Metal Ions in Zinc Sulfate Solution Using UV-Vis Spectrometry and SPSE-XGBoost Method

Excessive discharge of heavy metal ions will aggravate environment pollution and threaten human health. Thus, it is of significance to real-time detect metal ions and control discharge in the metallurgical wastewater. We developed an accurate and rapid approach based on the singular perturbation spectrum estimator and extreme gradient boosting (SPSE-XGBoost) algorithms to simultaneously determine multi-metal ion concentrations by UV–vis spectrometry. In the approach, the spectral data is expanded by multi-order derivative preprocessing, and then, the sensitive feature bands in each spectrum are extracted by feature importance (VI score) ranking. Subsequently, the SPSE-XGBoost model are trained to combine multi-derivative features and to predict ion concentrations. The experimental results indicate that the developed “Expand-Extract-Combine” strategy can not only overcome problems of background noise and spectral overlapping but also mine the deeper spectrum information by integrating important features. Moreover, the SPSE-XGBoost strategy utilizes the selected feature subset instead of the full-spectrum for calculation, which effectively improves the computing speed. The comparisons of different data processing methods are conducted. It outcomes that the proposed strategy outperforms other routine methods and can profoundly determine the concentrations of zinc, copper, cobalt, and nickel with the lowest RMSEP. Therefore, our developed approach can be implemented as a promising mean for real-time and on-line determination of multi-metal ion concentrations in zinc hydrometallurgy.

Zinc oxide nanoparticles from Corydalis yanhusuo attenuated the mycoplasmal pneumonia in mice through inhibiting the MAPKs signaling pathway

BACKGROUND

The Mycoplasma pneumoniae (M.pneumoniae) was accounted to 3-10% of total pneumonia incidences. In recent decades, metallic nanoparticles were extensively examined as nano-antibiotics.

OBJECTIVE

In this investigation, we intended to inspect the therapeutic potential of Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) from (Corydalis yanhusuo) C. yanhusuo against the mycoplasma infected pneumonia in mice.

METHODOLOGY

The ZnONPs were formulated via green route technique and characterized by UV-vis spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared technique, and atomic force microscopy. The antimicrobial activity of formulated ZnONPs was tested by well diffusion method. The total protein, interleukin-1 (IL-1), interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-8 (IL-8), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) and transforming growth factor (TGF) status in the BALF of M. pneumonia infected animals were investigated via kit method. The expressions of ERK1/2, JNK1/2, and NF-κB were examined through the Western blotting. The Histopathological analysis of lung tissues of experimental animals was done.

RESULTS

The UV-vis spectroscopy and TEM examinations were proved the existence of CY-ZnONPs. The formulated CY-ZnONPs were displayed the potential antimicrobial activity. The supplementation of CY-ZnONPs were noticeably diminished the total protein and IL-6, IL-8, and TNF-α levels in the BALF of pneumonia mice. The ERK1/2, JNK1/2, and NF-κB expressions were appreciably diminished in the CY-ZnONPs supplemented mice. It also reduced the inflammatory cells penetration, and exhibited normal tissue arrangements in the lung tissues of pneumonia mice.

CONCLUSION

The findings of this investigation were proved that the synthesized CY-ZnONPs has the potential to ameliorate the M. pneumoniae infected pneumonia in investigational mice.

Model Optimization for the Prediction of Red Wine Phenolic Compounds Using Ultraviolet-Visible Spectra

The primary objective of this work was to optimize red wine phenolic prediction with models built from wine ultraviolet-visible absorbance spectra. Three major obstacles were addressed to achieve this, namely algorithm selection, spectral multicollinearity, and phenolic evolution over time. For algorithm selection, support vector regression, kernel ridge regression, and kernel partial least squares regression were compared. For multicollinearity, the spectrum of malvidin chloride was used as an external standard for spectral adjustment. For phenolic evolution, spectral data were collected during fermentation as well as once a week for four weeks after fermentation had ended. Support vector regression gave the most accurate predictions among the three algorithms tested. Additionally, malvidin chloride proved a useful standard for phenolic spectral transformation and isolation. As for phenolic evolution, models needed to be calibrated and validated throughout the aging process to ensure predictive accuracy. In short, red wine phenolic prediction by the models built in this work can be realistically achieved, although periodic model re-calibration and expansion from data obtained using known phenolic assays is recommended to maintain model accuracy.

Effects of photochemical and microbiological changes in terrestrial dissolved organic matter on its chemical characteristics and phytotoxicity towards cyanobacteria

Previous studies have shown that under laboratory conditions, dissolved organic matter (DOM) leached from plants can be differentially more phytotoxic to cyanobacteria, compared to green algae. This study examined how DOM source and transformation processes (microbial and photochemical) affect its chemical composition and phytotoxicity towards a cultured species of cyanobacteria (Raphidiopsis raciborskii) using a factorial experimental design. To complement cyanobacterial bioassays, the chemical composition and associated changes in DOM were determined using spectroscopic (nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and absorbance) and elemental analyses. Sunlight exposed DOM from leaves of the terrestrial plants, Casuarina cunninghamiana and Eucalyptus tereticornis had the most phytotoxic effect compared to DOM not exposed to sunlight. This phytotoxic DOM was characterised by relatively low nitrogen content, containing highly coloured and relatively high molecular mass constituents. Both mixed effect model and PCA approaches to predict inhibition of photosynthetic yield indicated phytotoxicity could be predicted (P < 0.001) based upon the following parameters: C: N ratio; gilvin, and lignin-derived phenol content of DOM. Parallel proton-detected 1D and 2D NMR techniques showed that glucose anomers were the major constituents of fresh leachate. With ageing, glucose anomers disappeared and products of microbial transformation appeared, but there was no indication of the appearance of additional phytotoxic compounds. This suggests that reactive oxygen species may be responsible, at least partially, for DOM phytotoxicity. This study provides important new information highlighting the characteristics of DOM that link with phytotoxic effects.

Trace Determination of Iron in Real Waters and Fruit Juice Samples Using Rapid Method: Optimized Dispersive Liquid-Liquid Microextraction with Synthesized Nontoxic Chelating Agent

The purpose of this research was to optimize a new method for preconcentration and determination of trace iron concentrations in aqueous solutions. For this purpose, a newly synthesized ligand, 3-(3-hydroxy-2-methyl-4-oxopyridin-1(4H)-yl) benzoic acid (3-OH-3-MOPBA), was used in the dispersive liquid-liquid microextraction (DLLME) method coupled with UV-vis spectroscopy. The experiments considering input variables of extractant volume, disperser volume, salt concentration, and pH were designed with the aid of central composite design (CCD). The results were analyzed using response surface methodology (RSM). The limit of detection (LOD) was found to be 4.0 μg L^-1 under the optimized conditions. A calibration curve with a good linearity (R² = 0.9986) was obtained over the concentration range of 15-800 μg L^-1. The relative standard deviations (RSD) were found to be around 2.1% (n = 7). The main advantages of the developed method are simple application, environment friendly, short time, and low cost which makes this method to be applied routinely for measuring iron in various water samples.

Variation in quantity and chemical composition of soil dissolved organic matter in a peri-urban critical zone observatory watershed in Eastern China

Soil organic matter plays a fundamental role in terrestrial ecosystems. However, little is known about the spectral characteristics and fluorescent components of soil dissolved organic matter (DOM) in peri-urban ecosystems and their influencing factors. In this study, we used the fluorescence excitation-emission matrix and parallel factor analysis (EEM-PARAFAC) to characterize soil DOM in a peri-urban Critical Zone Observatory watershed in Eastern China. Soil samples were collected at depths of 0-10 cm, 10-20 cm, and 20-40 cm from 82 sites (29 forest, 11 orchard, and 42 cropland). The results showed that soil organic carbon and water-soluble organic carbon content varied with land use type, and both were significantly higher in forest than cropland and orchard samples. Three fluorescent components, humic-, fulfic-, and protein-like substances, were derived from soil DOM using the PARAFAC model. All these components were distributed differently in the three land use types, as were their UV and fluorescence indices. The spatial distribution of soil DOM showed that the quantity and chemical composition of DOM were affected by environmental variables and human disturbance, among which pH and altitude significantly affected DOM content. Anthropogenic parameters such as distance to road and distance to town strongly influenced the chemical composition and characteristics of soil DOM. Negative correlations were observed between humic-like substances and distance to road or town, while positive correlations were observed between protein-like substances and these two parameters. These results demonstrate the pronounced influence of human activities on DOM composition and characteristics in the watershed area. The findings highlight the value of soil DOM characterization to better understand the origin, composition, and fate of DOM in soils in peri-urban critical zones.

Beer's law derived from electromagnetic theory

We present a rigorous derivation of Beer's law from electromagnetic theory which allows to establish the connection of wave optics and Maxwell's equations with quantitative UV/VIS and infrared spectroscopy. As a result of this derivation, the attenuation constant is shown to be a function of the index of refraction. For small concentrations and an index of refraction not very different from unity, however, the empirical law is retrieved. Only for very strong absorptions with attenuation constants beyond 10³ l/(mol·cm) and high concentrations, noticeable deviations from the empirical law and its linear concentration dependence are predicted to occur. The derivation is presented in a form, which is not only similar to that leading to the Clausius-Mossotti equation, but also shares the same starting point. Accordingly, it can easily be included in the curricula of physical chemistry.

On the encapsulation of Olsalazine by β-cyclodextrin: A DFT-based computational and spectroscopic investigations

In this work, the supramolecular host-guest interaction of the prodrug Olsalazine (OLZ) and β-Cyclodextrin (β-CD) was examined experimentally and computationally. Experimentally, employing the UV-Vis spectroscopic method in aqueous media at various pH's, results obtained using the Benesi-Hilderbrand approach demonstrated that OLZ can form supramolecular inclusion complex with β-CD with stoichiometric ratio of 1:1. Furthermore, these results revealed that the formation of OLZ: β-CD complexes exhibited insignificant pH dependency in the range 5-8 with an average binding constant (K_b) of approximately 1×10³M^-1. Computationally, geometry optimization of 1:1 OLZ: β-CD complexes was performed employing the ONIOM (DFT((ωB97XB)/6-31+G(d)),SQM(PM3)) approach. Obtained results demonstrated that OLZ: β-CD complex is stabilized by the formation of intermolecular hydrogen bonds with an average length of approximately 1.8Å. Additionally, the stability of OLZ: β-CD complex was demonstrated employing ADMP molecular dynamic simulations over a timeframe of 500fs. The molecularity of the supramolecular host-guest interaction between OLZ and β-CD is presented and interpreted in the essence of TD-DFT and molecular orbitals analyses.

Biodegradation of triphenylmethane dye crystal violet by Cedecea davisae

The present study focuses on the biodegradation of triphenylmethane dye crystal violet (CV) by Cedecea davisae. The degradation of CV was evaluated via ultraviolet absorbance at 254 nm (UV₂₅₄) and chemical oxygen demand (COD) removal, and the kinetics was used to evaluate the degradation efficiency. Intermediate products were analyzed via UV-vis spectroscopy (UV), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Results showed that C. davisae was able to decolorize the CV, and the maximum decolorization ratio reached 97%. COD reduction was observed after decolorization, with average removal rates of >90% after 48 h. Moreover, 50% of UV₂₅₄ can be removed after 14 h. The removal efficiency of CV by C. davisae followed first- and second-order reaction kinetics at temperature ranged from 20 °C to 40 °C and pH 4.0 to 6.0, respectively. By using UV, the peak representing the CV disappeared 14 h after CV decolorization, and the degradation of aromatic and naphthalene rings was attributed to the formation of a new metabolite. The FTIR spectra of metabolites showed that a new functional group of OH, CH, CH₂, CH₃, NH, CN, CN, or CO was produced. The chromatograms of HPLC recorded at 589 nm at retention time decreased and were not detected following incubation for 8 h by C. davisae.

X-ray Structure Elucidation of a Pt-Metalloporphyrin and Its Application for Obtaining Sensitive AuNPs-Plasmonic Hybrids Capable of Detecting Triiodide Anions

The development of UV–vis spectrophotometric methods based on metalloporphyrins for fast, highly sensitive and selective anion detection, which avoids several of the practical challenges associated with other detection methods, is of tremendous importance in analytical chemistry. In this study, we focused on achieving a selective optical sensor for triiodide ion detection in traces based on a novel hybrid material comprised of Pt(II) 5,10,15,20-tetra(4-methoxy-phenyl)-porphyrin (PtTMeOPP) and gold nanoparticles (AuNPs). This sensor has high relevance in medical physiological tests. The structure of PtTMeOPP was investigated by single crystal X-ray diffraction in order to understand the metal surroundings and the molecule conformation and to assess if it qualifies as a potential sensitive material. It was proven that the Pt-porphyrin generated 1D H-bond supramolecular chains due to the weak C-H···O intermolecular hydrogen bonding. The presence of ordered voids in the crystal encouraged us to use PtTMeOPP as the sensing material for triiodide ion and to enhance its potential in a novel AuNPs/PtTMeOPP hybrid by the synergistic effects provided by the plasmonic gold nanoparticles. The spectrophotometric sensor is characterized by a detection limit of 1.5 × 10⁻⁹ M triiodide ion concentration and a remarkable confidence coefficient of 99.98%.

Factorization of preparative protein chromatograms with hard-constraint multivariate curve resolution and second-derivative pretreatment

Current biopharmaceutical production heavily relies on chromatography for protein purification. Recently, research has intensified towards finding suitable solutions to monitoring the chromatographic steps by multivariate spectroscopic sensors. Here, hard-constraint multivariate curve resolution (MCR) was investigated as a calibration-free method for factorizing bilinear preparative protein chromatograms into concentrations and spectra. Protein elutions were assumed to follow exponentially modified Gaussian (EMG) curves. In three case studies, MCR was applied to chromatograms of second-derivative ultraviolet and visible (UV-vis) spectra. The three case studies consisted of the separation of a ternary mixture (ribonuclease A, cytochrome c, and lysozyme), multiple binary chromatography runs of cytochrome c and lysozyme, and the separation of an antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) from unconjugated immunoglobulin G (IgG). In all case studies, good estimates of the elution curves were obtained. R² values compared to off-line analytics exceeded 0.90. The estimated spectra allowed for protein identification based on a protein spectral library. In summary, MCR was shown to be well able to factorize protein chromatograms without prior calibration. The method may thus substantially simplify analysis of multivariate protein chromatograms with multiple co-eluting species. It may be especially useful in process development.

Authentication and discrimination of green tea samples using UV-vis, FTIR and HPLC techniques coupled with chemometrics analysis

Green tea is a popular beverage consumed worldwide. Its quality should be controlled adequately as the quality is influenced by several factors in addition to adulterations. This study aimed to develop a simple method for assessing the quality of green tea samples obtained from the South and the East Asian regions. The UV-vis, FTIR and HPLC data from 38 samples were subjected to multivariate analyses using the unsupervised recognition techniques comprising Hierarchical Cluster Analysis (HCA) and Principal Component Analysis (PCA). The model for their authentication was constructed and validated by applying the supervised recognition techniques as Soft Independent Modeling of Class Analogy (SIMCA) and Partial Least Square Discriminant Analysis (PLS-DA). The percentages of caffeine in the identified samples were determined using a validated HPLC assay in addition to in vitro determination of their antioxidant activity using DPPH radical-scavenging capacity assay. HCA and PCA based on UV data successfully distributed the tested samples into informative clusters. However, that obtained from visible data could only differentiate samples with respect to their powdered condition. On the contrary, PCA from FTIR and HPLC data could hardly discriminate any of the samples. The models constructed using SIMCA and PLS-DA showed a good class separation between the South and the East Asian samples. The percentages of caffeine in the identified samples and the IC₅₀ in DPPH assay are greatly diverse among all the tested samples. Thus, UV spectroscopy and chemometrics have provided a simple and quick tool for the quality control of commercial green tea samples.

A novel 4-phenyl amino thiourea derivative designed for real-time ratiometric-colorimetric detection of toxic Pb2

The objective of this study was to develop a ratiometric and colorimetric organic sensor for Pb²⁺ detection in environmental samples. A new probe 4-phenyl amino thiourea (PAT) was designed and synthesized using hydrazine hydrate and phenyl isothiocyanate as raw materials. After its structure was characterized and confirmed, its UV-vis spectral property was investigated in detail. PAT possesses a specifically real-time, ratiometric and colorimetric response to Pb²⁺ in dimethyl formamide (DMF)/H₂O (v/v = 9:1, pH = 7.0) within 18.0 s. There was little interference in the presence of some other common metal ions, such as Fe³⁺, Cd²⁺, Zn²⁺, Mg²⁺, Cr³⁺, Ca²⁺, Ba²⁺, Sn²⁺, Na⁺, Mn²⁺, Hg²⁺, and Pb²⁺. Under the optimized conditions (DMF/H₂O with v/v of 9:1, c_PAT = 1.0 × 10^-3 mol·L^-1, pH = 7.0), the present sensor PAT was successfully applied for Pb²⁺ determination in environmental water samples with satisfied recoveries (83.0%-106.0%) and analytical precision (≤7.2%). The recognition mechanism was confirmed to form a stable 1:1 six-member ring complex between the target dye and Pb²⁺ with a coordination constant of 4.96 × 10⁴.

Preparation and spectral properties of europium hydrogen squarate microcrystals

A simple scheme for preparation of europium hydrogen squarate octahydrate microcrystals, Eu(HSq)₃·8H₂O is demonstrated. The microcrystalline powders obtained have a potential application as non-centrosymmetric and UV radiation - protective hybrid optical material. The site-symmetry of the Eu - ion is C_2V or lower, obtained from diffuse reflectance spectra. The formation of europium hydrogen squarate is supported by IR - spectroscopy, UV-vis spectroscopy, chemical analysis and X-ray diffraction. A detailed analysis of the UV-vis and IR spectra of the micropowders prepared is presented.

A new method for determination of cocamidopropyl betaine synthesized from coconut oil through spectral shift of Eriochrome Black T

Cocamidopropyl betaine (CAPB) is a zwitterionic surfactant that is synthesized using coconut oil and usually supplied in form of an aqueous solution with 25-37% w/w. In this study, a novel method based on UV-visible spectroscopy is developed for an accurate determination of CAPB synthesized from coconut oil. Eriochrome Black T (EBT) as a specific color indicator was added to CAPB and a red shift and color change were observed. This shift leads in increasing wavelength selectivity of the method. The change in the color intensity depends on the concentration of CAPB. By measuring the absorbance of a solution containing CAPB, its concentration was measured. After optimizing all the effective parameters, CAPB was detected in commercial real samples. Using the proposed approach, limit of quantification (LOQ) and relative standard deviation (RSD) were obtained about 4.30×10^-5M and 4.8% respectively. None of unreacted materials or by-products, which were produced in the synthesis of CAPB, showed any interference in the determination of CAPB. This shows that the proposed method is specific and accurate, and can potentially be used for quantitative determination of CAPB in commercial samples with satisfactory results.

Experimental conditions affecting the kinetics of aqueous HCN polymerization as revealed by UV-vis spectroscopy

HCN polymerization is one of the most important and fascinating reactions in prebiotic chemistry, and interest in HCN polymers in the field of materials science is growing. However, little is known about the kinetics of the HCN polymerization process. In the present study, a first approach to the kinetics of two sets of aqueous HCN polymerizations, from NH₄CN and NaCN, at middle temperatures between 4 and 38°C, has been carried out. For each series, the presence of air and salts in the reaction medium has been systematically explored. A previous kinetic analysis was conducted during the conversion of the insoluble black HCN polymers obtained as gel fractions in these precipitation polymerizations for a reaction of one month, where a limit conversion was achieved at the highest polymerization temperature. The kinetic description of the gravimetric data for this complex system shows a clear change in the linear dependence with the polymerization temperature for the reaction from NH₄CN, besides a relevant catalytic effect of ammonium, in comparison with those data obtained from the NaCN series. These results also demonstrated the notable influence of air, oxygen, and the saline medium in HCN polymer formation. Similar conclusions were reached when the sol fractions were monitored by UV-vis spectroscopy, and a Hill type correlation was used to describe the polymerization profiles obtained. This technique was chosen because it provides an easy, prompt and fast method to follow the evolution of the liquid or continuous phase of the process under study.

Colloidal solution of silver nanoparticles for label-free colorimetric sensing of ammonia in aqueous solutions

Silver nanoparticles were synthesized in the presence of saccharides and ammonia (NH3) in the concentration range from 10-2 to 103 ppm to develop an optical sensor for NH3 in aqueous solutions. Ammonia affects the features of the nanoparticles obtained in a concentration-dependent manner as determined by UV-vis absorption analysis and TEM observations. Structural and morphological analysis provides the basis for the production of a colorimetric label-free sensor for ammonia. Overall, surface plasmon resonance increases when ammonia concentration rises, although the functional trend is not the same over the entire investigated ammonia concentration range. Three different ranges have been identified: very low ammonia concentrations from 0.01 to 0.2 ppm, high ammonia concentrations from 20 to 350 ppm and, most importantly, the intermediate or physiological range of ammonia from 0.5 to 10 ppm.

Formation, characterization and pH dependence of rifampicin: heptakis(2,6-di-O-methyl)-β-cyclodextrin complexes

Rifampicin (Rif) is a broad spectrum antibiotic used as a first line agent in the treatment of mycobacterial infections. However, its low solubility and reduced stability in water limit its bioavailability, thus requiring the use of complex formulations. Here, we present a systematic study of Rif in complex with a methylated cyclodextrin, heptakis(2,6-di-O-methyl)-β-cyclodextrin (DIMEB), in phosphate buffer using a combination of nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and steady-state UV-vis spectroscopic methods. An increase in the stability and solubility of Rif in complex with DIMEB was observed in buffered solutions (phosphate, PBS). At neutral pH the presence of three distinguishable binding sites was revealed, demonstrating that DIMEB forms predominantly a stable 1:1 (K∼3000M^-1) complex at the piperazine site of Rif, while at acidic pH the binding constant decreases significantly (K∼400M^-1) due to protonation of the piperazine, thus inducing a release of Rif. The reported results provide new and relevant information for the stability and solubility of Rif in aqueous solution when forming a complex with DIMEB. Furthermore they contribute to clarify Rif interactions with cyclodextrin carriers, thus providing the basis for the development of new methylated cyclodextrin that can efficiently encapsulate and deliver Rif and derivatives of its family.

Synthesis, spectroscopic characterization and thermogravimetric analysis of two series of substituted (metallo)tetraphenylporphyrins

Subsequent treatment of H₂TPP(CO₂H)₄ (tetra(p-carboxylic acid phenyl)porphyrin, 1) with an excess of oxalyl chloride and HNR₂ afforded H₂TPP(C(O)NR₂)₄ (R = Me, 2; iPr, 3) with yields exceeding 80%. The porphyrins 2 and 3 could be converted to the corresponding metalloporphyrins MTPP(C(O)NR₂)₄ (R = Me/iPr for M = Zn (2a, 3a); Cu (2b, 3b); Ni (2c, 3c); Co (2d, 3d)) by the addition of 3 equiv of anhydrous MCl₂ (M = Zn, Cu, Ni, Co) to dimethylformamide solutions of 2 and 3 at elevated temperatures. Metalloporphyrins 2a-d and 3a-d were obtained in yields exceeding 60% and have been, as well as 2 and 3, characterized by elemental analysis, electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESIMS) and IR and UV-vis spectroscopy. Porphyrins 2, 2a-d and 3, 3a-d are not suitable for organic molecular beam deposition (OMBD), which is attributed to their comparatively low thermal stability as determined by thermogravimetric analysis (TG) of selected representatives.

UV-vis spectroscopy and colorimetric models for detecting anthocyanin-metal complexes in plants: An overview of in vitro and in vivo techniques

Although anthocyanin (ACN) biosynthesis is one of the best studied pathways of secondary metabolism in plants, the possible physiological and ecological role(s) of these pigments continue to intrigue scientists. Like other dihydroxy B-ring substituted flavonoids, ACNs have an ability to bind metal and metalloid ions, a property that has been exploited for a variety of purposes. For example, the metal binding ability may be used to stabilize ACNs from plant food sources, or to modify their colors for using them as food colorants. The complexation of metals with cyanidin derivatives can also be used as a simple, sensitive, cheap, and rapid method for determination concentrations of several metals in biological and environmental samples using UV-vis spectroscopy. Far less information is available on the ecological significance of ACN-metal complexes in plant-environment interactions. Metalloanthocyanins (protocyanin, nemophilin, commelinin, protodelphin, cyanosalvianin) are involved in the copigmentation phenomenon that leads to blue-pigmented petals, which may facilitate specific plant-pollinator interactions. ACN-metal formation and compartmentation into the vacuole has also been proposed to be part of an orchestrated detoxification mechanism in plants which experience metal/metalloid excess. However, investigations into ACN-metal interactions in plant biology may be limited because of the complexity of the analytical techniques required. To address this concern, here we describe simple methods for the detection of ACN-metal both in vitro and in vivo using UV-vis spectroscopy and colorimetric models. In particular, the use of UV-vis spectra, difference absorption spectra, and colorimetry techniques will be described for in vitro determination of ACN-metal features, whereas reflectance spectroscopy and colorimetric parameters related to CIE L^*a^*b^* and CIE XYZ systems will be detailed for in vivo analyses. In this way, we hope to make this high-informative tool more accessible to plant physiologists and ecologists.

Assessment of organic pollution of an industrial river by synchronous fluorescence and UV-vis spectroscopy: the Fensch River (NE France)

To rapidly monitor the surface water quality in terms of organic pollution of an industrial river undergoing restoration, optical methods (UV-visible spectrometry and fluorescence) were applied in parallel to classical physical-chemical analyses. UV-visible spectra were analyzed using the maximum of the second derivative at 225 nm (related to nitrates), specific absorbance at 254 nm (SUVA₂₅₄), and the spectral slope between 275 and 295 nm (S _275-295) (related to the aromaticity and molecular weight of dissolved organic carbon). The synchronous fluorescence spectra (wavelength difference = 50 nm) exhibited a high variability in the composition of dissolved organic material between the upstream and downstream sections and also versus time. The principal components analysis of the entire set of synchronous fluorescence spectra helped to define three river sections with different pollution characteristics. Spectral decomposition was applied to the two most upstream sections: five fluorophores, classical in rivers impacted by domestic sewage and related to protein-like (λ _ex = 280 nm) and humic-like fluorescence (M-type with λ _ex ≈ 305-310 nm and C-type with λ _ex ≥ 335 nm), were identified. The irregular shape of the synchronous fluorescence spectra in the most downstream section is likely due to organic pollutants of industrial origin; however, their variability and the complexity of the spectra did not allow the further elucidation of their nature.

Preparation and characterization of novel double-decker rare-earth phthalocyanines substituted with 5-bromo-2-thienyl groups

BACKGROUND

A series of rare-earth bisphthalocyanines of praseodymium, samarium and gadolinium bearing 5-bromo-2-thienyl substituents were prepared for the first time.

RESULTS

Three bis[octakis(5-bromo-2-thienyl)] rare-earth metal(III) bisphthalocyanine complexes (Pr, Sm, Gd) were synthesized for the first time. The new compounds were characterized by UV-vis, NIR, FT-IR, mass spectroscopy and thermogravimetry as well as elementary analysis and electrochemistry. Production of singlet oxygen was also estimated using 9,10-dimethylanthracene method.

CONCLUSIONS

The bromine substituent causes significant changes in molecule paramagnetism, singlet oxygen production, HOMO position and spectral characteristics. The compounds in solutions exist in two forms (neutral and/or reduced) depending on the solvent and rare-earth metal. Moreover, the compounds exhibit much increased stability under acid conditions compared with non-brominated derivatives. Graphical abstract Prepared compounds for the study of their chemical and other properties.

The interaction of beta-lactoglobulin with ciprofloxacin and kanamycin; a spectroscopic and molecular modeling approach

A vast research has been conducted to find suitable and safe carriers for vital and pH-sensitive drugs including antibiotics. This article reports the use of easily accessible and abundant purified beta-lactoglobulin (β-LG) protein as the potential carrier of widely used Kanamycin (Kana) and Ciprofloxacin (Cip) antibiotics. Spectroscopic techniques (Fluorescence, UV-vis, Circular Dichroism) combined with molecular docking were used to determine the binding mechanism of these drugs. Fluorescence studies showed moderate binding affinity with the calculated binding constants K_Cip = 60.1 (±0.2) × 10³ M^-1 and K_kana = 2.5 (±0.6) × 10³ M^-1 with the order of Cip > Kana. Results of UV-vis were consistent with fluorescence measurements and demonstrated a stronger complexation for Cip rather than Kana. The secondary structure of β-LG was preserved upon interaction with Kana; however, a reduction in β-sheet content from 39.1 to 31.9% was convoyed with an increase in α-helix from 12.8 to 20.5% due to complexation of Cip. Molecular docking studies demonstrated that preferred binding sites of these drugs are not the same and several amino acids are involved in stabilizing the interaction. Based on the achieved results, Kana and Cip can spontaneously bind to β-LG and this protein may serve as their transport vehicle.

Thiol-thione tautomeric analysis, spectroscopic (FT-IR, Laser-Raman, NMR and UV-vis) properties and DFT computations of 5-(3-pyridyl)-4H-1,2,4-triazole-3-thiol molecule

In this study, the 5-(3-pyridyl)-4H-1,2,4-triazole-3-thiol molecule (C7H6N4S) molecule has been characterized by using FT-IR, Laser-Raman, NMR and UV-vis spectroscopies. Quantum chemical calculations have been performed to investigate the molecular structure (thione-thiol tautomerism), vibrational wavenumbers, electronic transition absorption wavelengths in DMSO solvent and vacuum, proton and carbon-13 NMR chemical shifts and HOMOs-LUMOs energies at DFT/B3LYP/6-311++G(d,p) level for all five tautomers of the title molecule. The obtained results show that the calculated vibrational wavenumbers, NMR chemical shifts and UV-vis wavelengths are in a good agreement with experimental data.

Pendant-drop method coupled to ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy: A useful tool to investigate interfacial phenomena

UV-vis spectroscopy is a powerful tool to investigate surface phenomena. Surface tension measurements coupled to spectroscopic techniques can help to elucidate how the interface organization influences the electronic properties of molecules. However, appreciable sample volumes are usually necessary to achieve strong signals during conduction of experiments. This study reports on the simultaneous acquisition of surface tension data and UV-vis spectra by axisymmetric drop shape analysis (ADSA) coupled to diffuse reflectance (DRUV) spectrophotometry using a pendant microliter-drop that requires small sample volumes and low analyte concentrations. Three example systems gave evidence of the applicability of this technique: (a) disaggregation of an organic dye driven by surfactant as a function of the surface tension and alterations in the UV-vis spectra, (b) activity of a glycosylphosphatidylinositol anchored enzyme estimated from formation of a colored product, and (c) interaction between this enzyme and biomimetic membrane systems consisting of dipalmitoylphosphaditylcholine and cholestenone. Apart from using smaller sample volume, this coupled technique allowed to investigate interfacial organization in the light of electronic spectra obtained in loco within a shorter acquisition time. This procedure provided precise interfacial information about static and dynamic systems. This has been the first study describing the kinetic activity of an enzyme in the presence of phospholipid monolayers through simultaneous determination of the surface tension and UV-vis spectra.

Ultrasound-based protein determination in maize seeds

The need for a simple and accurate method for protein estimation in alcoholic extracts led to the reexamination of the optimum conditions of a colorimetric assay based on the biuret reaction. Sonication time and the other experimental parameters were optimized after kinetics study on the extraction of either zein or total proteins. Zein extraction and purity were investigated by (1)H and (13)C NMR spectroscopy, SDS-PAGE electrophoresis, and UV-visible spectrophotometry (UV-vis). A zein assay was proposed, which involves the reaction of copper ions in copper phosphate powder with zein extracted in ethanolic solutions under strong alkaline environment. Furthermore, we extended this procedure to determine total proteins in maize samples simultaneously with their ultrasonic-assisted (US) extraction with an alkaline-alcoholic solution. Proteins in both types of extracts were well characterized by UV-vis spectroscopy. However, the 545 nm absorbance of the violet-colored supernatants which is proportional to the protein content was found to be the key parameter of the improved biuret-based protein assay. Comparison of values obtained by this procedure and by Micro-Kjeldahl method was in excellent agreement. A scaled-down procedure agreed well with the standard procedure. Enhanced accuracy and repeatability was found in protein determination in maize using the modified biuret method. The optimization of reagent concentrations and incubation times were studied as well.

The importance of extracellular speciation and corrosion of copper nanoparticles on lung cell membrane integrity

Copper nanoparticles (Cu NPs) are increasingly used in various biologically relevant applications and products, e.g., due to their antimicrobial and catalytic properties. This inevitably demands for an improved understanding on their interactions and potential toxic effects on humans. The aim of this study was to investigate the corrosion of copper nanoparticles in various biological media and to elucidate the speciation of released copper in solution. Furthermore, reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and lung cell (A549 type II) membrane damage induced by Cu NPs in the various media were studied. The used biological media of different complexity are of relevance for nanotoxicological studies: Dulbecco's modified eagle medium (DMEM), DMEM(+) (includes fetal bovine serum), phosphate buffered saline (PBS), and PBS+histidine. The results show that both copper release and corrosion are enhanced in DMEM(+), DMEM, and PBS+histidine compared with PBS alone. Speciation results show that essentially no free copper ions are present in the released fraction of Cu NPs in neither DMEM(+), DMEM nor histidine, while labile Cu complexes form in PBS. The Cu NPs were substantially more membrane reactive in PBS compared to the other media and the NPs caused larger effects compared to the same mass of Cu ions. Similarly, the Cu NPs caused much more ROS generation compared to the released fraction only. Taken together, the results suggest that membrane damage and ROS formation are stronger induced by Cu NPs and by free or labile Cu ions/complexes compared with Cu bound to biomolecules.

A comparison of antioxidative capacities of fruit juices, drinks and nectars, as determined by EPR and UV-vis spectroscopies

The differences in the Trolox Equivalent Antioxidant Capacity (TEAC) values at the same incubation time obtained by two different techniques: electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy and ultraviolet visible (UV-vis) spectroscopy, which use the same antioxidant-free radical reaction mechanism, were determined for fruit juices, nectars and drinks. For this study, the stable free radical 1,1-Diphenyl-2-picryl-hydrazyl (DPPH(•)) was used. The antioxidant capacity was presented in Trolox Equivalents, e.g., μM trolox per 100 ml of sample. All of the studied fruit juices, drinks and nectars showed antioxidative properties. Dependencies between TEAC values and the percent fruit content and sample color were observed for the studied beverages. It was found that EPR spectroscopy is the more adequate method for determining TEAC values for these kinds of samples.

Visible light absorption and photo-sensitizing properties of spinach leaves and beetroot extracted natural dyes

Herein, chlorophyll and betalain dyes are extracted from fresh spinach leaves and beetroots. Fourier transform infrared spectra are used to identify the characteristic peaks of the extracted dyes. UV-vis light absorption characteristics of the dyes and their mixed counterpart are investigated by varying their pH and temperature. These dyes are used as photo sensitizer for fabrication of zinc oxide photo-anode based dye sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). The photo-voltaic characteristics of the developed DSSCs are measured under simulated solar light (power of incident light 100 mW cm(-2) from Air Mass 1.5G). The solar to electric conversion efficiencies for the chlorophyll, betalain and mixed dye based solar cells are estimated as 0.148%, 0.197% and 0.294% respectively. The highest conversion efficiency for mixed dye based solar cell is attributed due to the absorption of wider range of solar spectrum.

Synthesis and spectroscopic properties of β-triazoloporphyrin-xanthone dyads

A novel series of β-triazoloporphyrin-xanthone conjugates and xanthone-bridged β-triazoloporphyrin dyads has been synthesized in moderate to good yields through Cu(I)-catalyzed Huisgen 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition reaction of copper(II) 2-azido-5,10,15,20-tetraphenylporphyrin or zinc(II) 2-azidomethyl-5,10,15,20-tetraphenylporphyrin with various alkyne derivatives of xanthones in DMF containing CuSO4 and ascorbic acid at 80 °C. Furthermore, these metalloporphyrins underwent demetalation under acidic conditions to afford the corresponding free-base porphyrins in good to excellent yields. After successful spectroscopic characterization, these porphyrins have been evaluated for their photophysical properties. The preliminary results revealed a bathochromic shift in the UV-vis and fluorescence spectra of these porphyrin-xanthone dyads.

Green synthesis of silver nanoparticles using Coffea arabica seed extract and its antibacterial activity

A novel green source was opted to synthesize silver nanoparticles using dried roasted Coffea arabica seed extract. Bio-reduction of silver was complete when the mixture (AgNO3+extract) changed its color from light to dark brown. UV-vis spectroscopy result showed maximum adsorption at 459 nm, which represents the characteristic surface plasmon resonance of nanosilver. X-ray crystal analysis showed that the silver nanoparticles are highly crystalline and exhibit a cubic, face centered lattice with characteristic (111), (200), (220) and (311) orientations. Particles exhibit spherical and ellipsoidal shaped structures as observed from TEM. Composition analysis obtained from SEM-EDXA confirmed the presence of elemental signature of silver. FTIR results recorded a downward shift of absorption bands between 800-1500 cm(-1) indicting the formation of silver nanoparticles. The mean particle size investigated using DLS was found to be in between 20-30 nm respectively. Anti-bacterial activity of silver nanoparticles on E. coli and S. aureus demonstrated diminished bacterial growth with the development of well-defined inhibition zones.

Synthesis, DNA binding and complex formation reactions of 3-amino-5,6-dimethyl-1,2,4-triazine with Pd(II) and some selected biorelevant ligands

With the purpose of studying the binding behavior of Pd(II) complexes with DNA as the main biological target, and their ability to penetrate reasonably into tumour cells and destroy their replication ability, Pd(ADT)Cl2 complex was synthesized and characterized, where ADT is 3-amino-5,6-dimethyl-1,2,4-triazine. Stoichiometry and stability constants of the complexes formed between various biologically relevant ligands (amino acids, amides, DNA constituents, and dicarboxylic acids) and [Pd(ADT)(H2O)2](2+) were investigated at 25°C and at constant 0.1moldm(-3) ionic strength. The concentration distribution diagrams of the various species formed are evaluated. Further investigation of the binding properties of the diaqua complex [Pd(ADT)(H2O)2](2+) with calf thymus DNA (CT-DNA) was investigated by UV-vis spectroscopy. The intrinsic binding constants (Kb) calculated from UV-vis absorption studies was calculated to be 2.00×10(3)moldm(-3). The calculated (Kb) value was found to be of lower magnitude than that of the classical intercalator EB (Ethidium bromide) (Kb=1.23(±0.07)×10(5)moldm(-3)) suggesting an electrostatic and/or groove binding mode for the interaction with CT-DNA. Thermal denaturation has been systematically studied by spectrophotometric method and the calculated ΔTm was nearly 5°C, supporting the electrostatic and/or groove binding mode for the interaction between the complex and CT-DNA.

Binding interaction between sorafenib and calf thymus DNA: spectroscopic methodology, viscosity measurement and molecular docking

The binding interaction of sorafenib with calf thymus DNA (ct-DNA) was studied using UV-vis absorption spectroscopy, fluorescence emission spectroscopy, circular dichroism (CD), viscosity measurement and molecular docking methods. The experimental results revealed that there was obvious binding interaction between sorafenib and ct-DNA. The binding constant (Kb) of sorafenib with ct-DNA was 5.6×10(3) M(-1) at 298 K. The enthalpy and entropy changes (ΔH(0) and ΔS(0)) in the binding process of sorafenib with ct-DNA were -27.66 KJ mol(-1) and -21.02 J mol(-1) K(-1), respectively, indicating that the main binding interaction forces were van der Waals force and hydrogen bonding. The docking results suggested that sorafenib preferred to bind on the minor groove of A-T rich DNA and the binding site of sorafenib was 4 base pairs long. The conformation change of sorafenib in the sorafenib-DNA complex was obviously observed and the change was close relation with the structure of DNA, implying that the flexibility of sorafenib molecule played an important role in the formation of the stable sorafenib-ct-DNA complex.

Spectrophotometric, voltammetric and cytotoxicity studies of 2-hydroxy-5-methoxyacetophenone thiosemicarbazone and its N(4)-substituted derivatives: a combined experimental-computational study

In this study, 2-hydroxy-5-methoxyacetophenone thiosemicarbazone (HMAT) and its novel N(4) substituted derivatives were synthesized and characterized by different techniques. The optical band gap of the compounds and the energy of HOMO were experimentally examined by UV-vis spectra and cyclic voltammetry measurements, respectively. Furthermore, the conformational spaces of the compounds were scanned with molecular mechanics method. The geometry optimization, HOMO and LUMO energies, the energy gap of the HOMO-LUMO, dipole moment of the compounds were theoretically calculated by the density functional theory B3LYP/6-311++G(d,p) level. The minimal electronic excitation energy and maximum wavelength calculations of the compounds were also performed by TD-DFT//B3LYP/6-311++G(d,p) level of theory. Theoretically calculated values were compared with the related experimental values. The combined results exhibit that all compounds have good electron-donor properties which affect anti-proliferative activity. The cytotoxic effects of the compounds were also evaluated against HeLa (cervical carcinoma), MCF-7 (breast carcinoma) and PC-3 (prostatic carcinoma) cell lines using the standard MTT assay. All tested compounds showed antiproliferative effect having IC50 values in different range. In comparison with that of HMAT, it was obtained that while ethyl group on 4(N)-substituted position decreased in potent anti-proliferative effect, the phenyl group on the position increased in anti-proliferative effect for the tested cancer cell line. Considering the molecular energy parameters, the cytotoxicity activities of the compounds were discussed.

Anaerobic co-digestion of food waste and landfill leachate in single-phase batch reactors

In order to investigate the effect of raw leachate on anaerobic digestion of food waste, co-digestions of food waste with raw leachate were carried out. A series of single-phase batch mesophilic (35±1°C) anaerobic digestions were performed at a food waste concentration of 41.8 g VS/L. The results showed that inhibition of biogas production by volatile fatty acids (VFA) occurred without raw leachate addition. A certain amount of raw leachate in the reactors effectively relieved acidic inhibition caused by VFA accumulation, and the system maintained stable with methane yield of 369-466 mL/g VS. Total ammonia nitrogen introduced into the digestion systems with initial 2000-3000 mgNH4-N/L not only replenished nitrogen for bacterial growth, but also formed a buffer system with VFA to maintain a delicate biochemical balance between the acidogenic and methanogenic microorganisms. UV spectroscopy and fluorescence excitation-emission matrix spectroscopy data showed that food waste was completely degraded. We concluded that using raw leachate for supplement water addition and pH modifier on anaerobic digestion of food waste was effective. An appropriate fraction of leachate could stimulate methanogenic activity and enhance biogas production.

UV-vis spectra as an alternative to the Lowry method for quantify hair damage induced by surfactants

It is well known that long term use of shampoo causes damage to human hair. Although the Lowry method has been widely used to quantify hair damage, it is unsuitable to determine this in the presence of some surfactants and there is no other method proposed in literature. In this work, a different method is used to investigate and compare the hair damage induced by four types of surfactants (including three commercial-grade surfactants) and water. Hair samples were immersed in aqueous solution of surfactants under conditions that resemble a shower (38 °C, constant shaking). These solutions become colored with time of contact with hair and its UV-vis spectra were recorded. For comparison, the amount of extracted proteins from hair by sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) and by water were estimated by the Lowry method. Additionally, non-pigmented vs. pigmented hair and also sepia melanin were used to understand the washing solution color and their spectra. The results presented herein show that hair degradation is mostly caused by the extraction of proteins, cuticle fragments and melanin granules from hair fiber. It was found that the intensity of solution color varies with the charge density of the surfactants. Furthermore, the intensity of solution color can be correlated to the amount of proteins quantified by the Lowry method as well as to the degree of hair damage. UV-vis spectrum of hair washing solutions is a simple and straightforward method to quantify and compare hair damages induced by different commercial surfactants.