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The use of polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) can help diminish fossil chemical dependency because it can partially replace petrochemical plastics due to its biodegradability and similar mechanical properties. However, its production costs are high compared with fossil-based plastics. Alternative carbon sources can be used in the fermentation media because they are renewable and low-cost. Vegetable oils are especially attractive due to their high carbon content, contributing to high production rates per gram of substrate. This work aimed to produce PHB from Cupriavidus necator LPB1421 using either corn or soybean oil as the sole carbon source. Urea was the best nitrogen source, enabling a DCW production of 4.35 g/L (corn oil) and 10.4 g/L (soybean oil). After media optimization, the DCW of corn oil reached 22.13 g/L, with 57.46% PHB accumulation (12.71 g PHB/L), whereas soybean oil led to a DCW of 19.83 g/L, with 54.91% PHB accumulation (10.89 g PHB/L). This media composition was employed in a kinetics assay, revealing similar fermentation parameters among both oils and a yield of 0.2118 g PHB/g for corn oil and 0.1815 g PHB/g for soybean oil. These results open the possibility of integrating PHB production with biofuel manufacturing in a bioethanol/biodiesel biorefinery concept. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nowadays, due to the harmful effects of chemical preservatives in food products and antibiotic resistance too, the efforts of researchers to use natural and safe antimicrobial compounds, including plant essential oils, have increased. In the present study, after collecting the Badrashboo plant from the fields around Urmia city and drying it, extracting the essential oil from the plant was carried out using a Clevenger device, and the antimicrobial effects of this essential oil against some Gram -positive and Gram -negative food - borne pathogenic bacteria were determined by methods: Disk Diffusion Agar (DDA), Well Diffusion Agar (WDA), Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), Minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) and interaction with four common broad -spectrum antibiotics including Vancomycin, Erythromycin, Chloramphenicol and Gentamicin were performed. The results of the DDA and WDA tests showed that the essential oil of Badreshbo had significant antimicrobial effects on all the tested bacteria in this study. The gram -positive bacteria were more sensitive than the gram -negative bacteria in front of this essential oil. The results of the MIC test of the essential oil for Salmonella typhimurium, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Shigella dysentery, Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus cereus, and Listeria monostogenes were 2.5, 1.25, 1.25, 0.625, 0.312, 1.25 and 1.25 mg/ml. The MBC of the mentioned strains were 5, 5, 2.5, 5, 2.5, 2.5, and 2.5 mg/mL, respectively. Also, the results of the study of the interaction effect of Badreshbo essential oil with the mentioned antibiotics indicate synergistic effects of the essential oil with all four antibiotics tested. Therefore, considering the significant antimicrobial effects observed for Badrashbo essential oil in this study, it can be used in the food and pharmaceutical industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the production of meat products, animal fats, which are rich mainly in saturated fatty acids, are used as a recipe ingredient. To improve the quality and fatty acid profile of meat products, it is possible to partially replace animal fat with vegetable oils. This approach aims to achieve a more favorable PUFA/SFA ratio and n-6:n-3 PUFA ratio, bringing them closer to the values recommended by nutritional organizations. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the impact of replacing 20% and 40% of animal fat with selected plant fats on the change in the fat fraction composition of liver pâté-type processed meat and its oxidative stability. Fatty acid content was analyzed in the oils purchased from retailers and in experimental samples. During refrigerated storage of the experimental sausages, changes in the content of primary (peroxide value (PV)) and secondary oxidation products (TBARS), as well as changes in sensory quality, were evaluated. The analysis included cross-sectional color, aroma, texture, saltiness, and taste. The study showed that replacing 20% of animal fat with vegetable oils resulted in products with high sensory attractiveness and oxidative stability, outperforming those with 40% replacement. Among the tested vegetable oils, samples with rapeseed oil demonstrated the highest oxidative stability and the most favorable, nutrition-recommendation-approaching n-6 to n-3 fatty acid ratio, compared with samples with flaxseed, corn, sunflower, and soybean oils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The fast detection of Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO) adulteration with poorer quality and lower price vegetable oils is important for the protection of consumers and the market of olive oil from fraudulent activities, the latter exhibiting an increasing trend worldwide during the last few years. In this work, two optical spectroscopic techniques, namely, Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) and UV-Vis-NIR absorption spectroscopy, are employed and are assessed for EVOO adulteration detection, using the same set of olive oil samples. In total, 184 samples were studied, including 40 EVOOs and 144 binary mixtures with pomace, soybean, corn, and sunflower oils, at various concentrations (ranging from 10 to 90% w/w). The emission data from LIBS, related to the elemental composition of the samples, and the UV-Vis-NIR absorption spectra, related to the organic ingredients content, are analyzed, both separately and combined (i.e., fused), by Linear Discriminant Analysis (LDA), Support Vector Machines (SVMs), and Logistic Regression (LR). In all cases, very highly predictive accuracies were achieved, attaining, in some cases, 100%. The present results demonstrate the potential of both techniques for efficient and accurate olive oil authentication issues, with the LIBS technique being better suited as it can operate much faster. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluated the antioxidant efficacy of ellagitannins from a pomegranate husk in preventing vegetable canola oil (VCO) oxidation during French fry preparation. Ellagitannins were extracted using 80% acetone, purified via Amberlite XAD-16 resin chromatography, and incorporated into VCO at 0.05%, 0.1%, and 0.2% concentrations. VCO oxidation was assessed at 145 °C, 160 °C, and 190 °C, with frying experiments conducted at 160 °C for five 10 min cycles. Primary lipid oxidation (peroxide values) was measured using the AOCS Cd 8-53 method, and molecular structural changes were analyzed by infrared spectroscopy. Results showed that ellagitannins significantly mitigated VCO oxidation across all temperatures, with 0.05% identified as the optimal concentration. This concentration reduced peroxide values to 4.66 ± 1.15 meq O/kg, remaining stable and below acceptable limits during frying. Infrared spectroscopy confirmed no significant structural changes in VCO. These findings highlight ellagitannins as effective antioxidants for enhancing VCO oxidative stability during frying, offering a natural, sustainable solution for improving oil quality and extending its usability in the food industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cutting fluid in the material processing process is effective in taking away the heat generated to reduce the cutting temperature, as well as reduce friction and wear to improve the surface performance of the material. It is the most basic and necessary component of the material manufacturing industry. However, mineral oil-based cutting fluids and their additives contain some substances that not only jeopardize human health but also pollute the environment, and a great number of researchers are working hand in hand to find green, environmentally friendly alternatives to traditional mineral oil-based cutting fluids. Among them, vegetable oil is a promising and viable alternative, and some safe nanomaterials have been developed as additives to prepare user-friendly and eco-friendly vegetable oil-based nano-cutting fluids. This paper reviews the formulation, characterization, and mechanism of vegetable oil-based cutting fluids and systematically discusses the application of vegetable oil-based nano-cutting fluids in turning, milling, grinding, and drilling. The results of the review show that high-performance vegetable oil-based nano-cutting fluids could be developed to help advance the realization of green manufacturing. Finally, possible directions for future research on plant-based nano-cutting fluids are proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The formation of biofilms occurs due to a group of bacteria gathering together. The increasing of cell density will stimulate chemical signals for bacteria to communicate through quorum sensing system. Quorum sensing plays a role for competition, virulence, resistance, and pathogenesis. Quorum sensing produces signaling response called as autoinducers. Gram‐negative bacteria produce N‐acyl‐L‐homoserine lactones as autoinducer, while quorum sensing in Gram‐positive bacteria produces autoinducing peptides. By looking at quorum sensing responses in bacterial pathogenesis and resistance, the study of natural antibiotic agents became a particular concern for researchers. This review summarizes the study of quorum sensing systems acting on Gram‐positive and Gram‐negative bacteria, the role of quorum sensing on biofilm formation by pathogenic bacteria, and the potential use of medicinal plants as natural anti–quorum sensing agents reviewed in vitro and in silico. The use of extracts from leaves, fruits, flowers, stems, and isolated compounds of some types of plants and essential oils has been successfully tested to have anti–quorum sensing activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to evaluate the oxidative stability and surface properties of cold-pressed vegetable oils using the Langmuir monolayer technique. Six oils—milk thistle, evening primrose, flaxseed, camelina sativa, black cumin, and pumpkin seed—were analyzed to investigate their molecular organization and behavior at the air/water interface, particularly after undergoing oxidation. The results showed that oils rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), such as flaxseed and evening primrose oils, formed monolayers with larger molecular areas and lower stability, which led to faster oxidative degradation, especially under thermal conditions. In contrast, pumpkin seed oil, with a higher content of saturated fatty acids (SFAs), formed more condensed and stable monolayers, enhancing its resistance to oxidation. Black cumin oil, with a balanced profile of SFAs and monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs), demonstrated similar stability. The Langmuir technique facilitated a detailed analysis of monolayer phase transitions: PUFA-rich oils transitioned more readily to less stable phases, while SFA-rich oils maintained durable, condensed structures. These findings underscore the utility of this method for assessing the oxidative stability of vegetable oils and highlight key parameters—such as surface pressure, molecular area, and elasticity modulus—that can support the optimization of oil storage and quality in the food industry and related sectors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Earias insulana Boisd. (Lepidoptera: Nolidae) is a major pest affecting cotton and other crops in Egypt, with insecticide resistance becoming a growing issue. This study investigates the potential of Croton tiglium oil and its nano-emulsion (CTNE) as an alternative bioinsecticide. It is the first study to examine the effects of these treatments on newly hatched E. insulana larvae and their impact on various developmental stages of the pest. The analysis revealed that C. tiglium oil contains several bioactive compounds that are toxic to E. insulana. The nano-emulsion (CTNE) showed excellent properties with small particle size and stability. Both C. tiglium oil and CTNE proved highly toxic to the larvae, affecting their growth and development. These treatments led to reduced larval and pupal weight, lower adult emergence, decreased reproductive capacity, and increased mortality. Additionally, the treatments caused delays in larval and pupal development. Histological and ultrastructural studies revealed significant damage to the midgut cells, including cell shrinkage, vacuolation, and detachment. Nuclear changes, such as chromatin condensation and damaged mitochondria, were observed, indicating that the treatments caused cell death. Overall, the findings suggest that C. tiglium oil and its nano-emulsion could be an effective and safe alternative to chemical insecticides for controlling E. insulana. Earias insulana Boisd. (Lepidoptera: Nolidae) is a major pest of cotton and other crops in Egypt, and the widespread use of insecticides has led to resistance. This study evaluates, for the first time, the bioactivity of Croton tiglium (Malpighiales: Euphorbiaceae) oil and its nano-emulsion (CTNE) against 25 newly hatched larvae of E. insulana Boisd. We assessed their biological effects across different developmental stages and performed histological and ultrastructural examinations. Gas–liquid chromatography (GLC) identified several bioactive compounds in C. tiglium oil crushed dry seeds, including fatty acids, hydrocarbons, and sterols. CTNE showed excellent quality with a zeta potential of −17.7 mV, an average particle size of 54.28 nm, and spherical droplets of 42.42 nm in diameter. The LC50 values for C. tiglium oil and CTNE were 9.02% and 2.70%, respectively. Both treatments significantly impacted the biological characteristics of E. insulana Boisd., including reduced larval and pupal weight, lower adult emergence, decreased fecundity, and increased mortality. Histologically, there was epithelial cell hypotrophy and detachment, while ultrastructural damage included chromatin condensation, nuclear envelope folding, and mitochondrial damage, indicating apoptotic degeneration. These findings suggest C. tiglium oil and CTNE as potential, safe alternatives to chemical insecticides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: This study investigates the factors influencing the effectiveness of transarterial bleomycin–lipiodol embolization (TACE) in managing giant hepatic hemangiomas. Through a retrospective analysis of 31 adult patients, the research identifies key factors associated with successful volume reduction post-treatment, such as higher bleomycin doses and extended follow-up periods. Notably, the study found no significant correlation between lesion location or preoperative size and clinical success, highlighting that TACE remains effective across varied lesion sizes. These findings suggest potential for tailored dosing and timing strategies in clinical practice to optimize outcomes, while the study encourages further investigation into refining TACE protocols. Introduction: Giant hepatic hemangiomas are challenging to manage, requiring effective therapeutic approaches. Transarterial bleomycin–lipiodol embolization (TACE) has shown promise as a treatment option, yet predictive factors for its success are not well defined. This study aimed to assess the efficacy of TACE for giant hepatic hemangiomas and identify factors influencing treatment outcomes. Methods: A retrospective analysis of 31 adult patients who underwent TACE with bleomycin and lipiodol between December 2014 and October 2022 was conducted. Clinical parameters including age, sex, hemangioma location, lesion size, bleomycin dose, number of TACE sessions, and follow-up duration were evaluated. The primary outcome was hemangioma volume reduction, with statistical analyses identifying factors associated with significant lesion regression. Results: Higher bleomycin doses and longer intervals from procedure to follow-up were positively correlated with hemangioma volume reduction, while variables such as patient sex and lesion location showed no statistically significant impact on clinical success. The findings suggest that increased bleomycin dosage and extended follow-up periods may enhance treatment efficacy. Conclusions: The study identifies bleomycin dose and follow-up duration as predictive factors for TACE success in treating giant hepatic hemangiomas, underscoring their role in optimizing therapeutic strategies. These insights contribute to improved treatment personalization for patients with giant hepatic hemangiomas and highlight the need for further prospective studies to validate and expand upon these findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lipids are intimately associated with skin condition. This review aims to discuss the function of linoleic acid (LA, 18:2, ω-6), an essential fatty acid, in skin health and hair growth. In skin, LA can be metabolized into ω-6 unsaturated fatty acid, oxidized derivatives and incorporated into complex lipid molecules, including ω-hydroxy-ceramides. Previous research has revealed that skin diseases including acne, atopic dermatitis and psoriasis are associated with disordered LA metabolism. Studies based on animal or skin cell models suggest that LA or LA-rich vegetable oils, topically applied, exhibit diverse biological activities, including the repair of the skin barrier, the promotion of wound healing, skin whitening, photoprotection, anti-inflammatory effects and the stimulation of hair growth. Moreover, the underlying mechanisms of LA's beneficial effects on skin are summarized. Further research on the correlation of LA metabolism and skin disorders, a deeper exploration of the mechanisms underlying the function of LA in skin management and more investigations of its clinical application are required to enhance the understanding and utilization of LA in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the application of supercritical carbon dioxide (CO2) for the extraction of essential oils from plant materials with anxiolytic potential, focusing on the leaves of burrito (Aloysia polystachya) and the seeds of sucupira-preta (Bowdichia virgilioides). The supercritical extraction technique was chosen for its ability to produce high-purity extracts without residual solvents and to reduce the environmental impact. This study evaluated the influence of temperature (40 °C, 50 °C, and 60 °C) and pressure (22 MPa, 25 MPa, and 28 MPa) on extraction efficiency using a 22 factorial design with triplicates at the central point. The maximum yields were 1.2% for burrito leaves and 4.2% for sucupira-preta seeds. Despite their relatively low yields, the extracts contained a diverse range of chemical compounds, including fatty acids (oleic, linoleic, and palmitic acids), squalene, β-carotene, vitamin E, and other bioactive molecules with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory properties. Statistical analysis demonstrated that pressure was the most influential factor affecting yield, whereas temperature played a secondary role. The Sovová kinetic model provided a good fit for the extraction curves, with determination coefficients (R2) above 0.95, thus validating the efficiency of the method. These results highlight the pharmaceutical potential of these extracts, particularly for therapeutic and anxiolytic purposes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Brassicas are considered the third most important source of vegetable oil globally. With the escalating production of Brassica varieties, there is growing demand for high-yielding genotypes. Doubled haploid (DH) techniques have become very popular in various Brassica breeding programs. Such DH techniques can play a significant role in plant breeding by accelerating the production of homozygous lines and increasing selection efficiency. Among these methods, isolated microspore culture stands out as the most effective, facilitating the generation of a higher number of embryos compared to conventional methods of plant breeding. Different chemical compounds such as herbicides, brassinosteroids, and polyethylene glycol have an antimitotic effect and have been found to generate DH plants and improve microspore embryogenesis in Brassica species. Colchicine and trifluralin have proven to be efficient chromosome-doubling agents as well as important supplements that can increase the rate of embryogenesis. This review serves as a comprehensive summary and effectiveness evaluation of the latest research findings in the Brassica oil crops to help increase efficiency of the future research focusing on DH methods and application of antimitotic agents in the various oilseed species of the genus Brassica. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To mitigate the effects of climate change, novel carbon capture technologies need to be developed. Since 2020, a new solution has been to adopt an energy-efficient combination of "amine blend + heterogeneous catalysts" in large CCUS demonstration plants. This study adopted the specific tri-solvent MEA-EAE-AMP and solid catalysts CaSO4, HND-580, and HND-8 in a novel bench-scale pilot plant with hot oil as the heat source. Three key parameters were investigated—absorption efficiency (AE), cyclic capacity (CC), and heat duty (HD)—to analyze the technology under a steady state. The results indicated that the solid acid significantly reduced αlean and the solid base increased αrich, while the CC was increased and HD was reduced to its minimum at 2.47 GJ/tCO2 and at optimized doses of the catalysts, 40 g CaSO4 and 100 HND-580. These results verified another energy-efficient solution that could be further scaled up into an industrial amine scrubbing pilot plant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Friction is an unfavourable phenomenon in deep-drawing forming processes because it hinders the deformation processes and causes deterioration of the surface quality of drawpieces. One way to reduce the unfavourable effect of friction in deep-drawing processes is to use lubricants with the addition of hard particles. For this reason, this article presents the results of friction tests of dual-phase HCT600X+Z steel sheets using the flat die strip drawing test. Sunflower oil and rapeseed oil with the addition of 1, 5 and 10 wt.% of silicon dioxide (SiO2) particles were used as lubricants. Tests were also carried out in dry friction conditions and lubricated conditions using SiO2-modified oils and oils without the addition of particles, as a reference. Tests were carried out at different pressure values between 2 and 8 MPa. The effect of friction on the change in sheet surface roughness was also examined. For the entire range of pressures analysed, pure sunflower oil showed lower efficiency in reducing the coefficient of friction compared to pure rapeseed oil. In the pressure range of 4–8 MPa, the lubricants with 5 wt.% and 10 wt.% of particles were more effective in reducing friction than the biolubricant with the addition of 1 wt.% of SiO2. The lowest average roughness was observed for lubrication with sunflower oil containing 5 wt.% of particles. In relation to rapeseed oil, the addition of 10 wt.% of SiO2 provided a sheet surface with the lowest average roughness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Researchers have considered medicinal oils to prevent and treat pediatric diseases. In the traditional Persian medicine (TPM) doctrine, anointment is widely used in order to avoid and treat diseases. This study aimed to evaluate and reconcile the uses of anointment in children in TPM and the new studies. Materials and Methods: Accordingly, TPM documents were scrutinized for anointments and their applications in pediatric disorders. Moreover, new studies were reviewed in Google scholar, PubMed, Medline, Scopus, and Web of Science until June 2022. Results: In the health preservation field, TPM scholars have recommended daily anointment with some oils like sweet almonds in the early months after birth to improve growth, strengthen the body, and prevent dry skin, and new studies have confirmed the effectiveness of some oils accordingly. In the treatment field, various oils are recommended, namely sweet almond oil for weight disorders, violet oil for insomnia, olive oil and chamomile oil for functional constipation, infantile colic and enuresis, and olive oil for diaper rash and atopic dermatitis and new studies have shown their effectiveness. Sweet almond, chamomile, violet, olive, and rose oils are among the most widely used oils in Persian medicine for children, which we have discussed in this study. Conclusion: Due to the non-invasive nature of anointment and the observation of minimal adverse effects in studies, it can be given attention for maintaining pediatric health and treating their diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we provide a revised insight into the performance of the ResNet50 model in identifying pests affecting oil palm plants. This issue is particularly critical due to the significance of monitoring and early detection of pests to enhance oil palm productivity. This study aims to assess and enhance the performance of the ResNet50 model in identifying pests that affect oil palm plants. We aim to explore how the integration of Depthwise Separable Convolution and the Convolutional Block Attention Module (CBAM) techniques can enhance the model's accuracy and capability in effectively identifying pest classes. This study employed an experimental approach utilizing ResNet50 as the foundational model. The impact of incorporating Depthwise Separable Convolution and the CBAM was assessed to evaluate its effect on model performance. The experiments were conducted using a dataset that featured a diverse array of images depicting oil palm pests. The assessment of model performance involved a detailed examination of the Confusion Matrix and the classification report. The results surprisingly showed significant improvements in accuracy, precision, recall, and F1-score. The improvement was observed in each pest class, with the best final result achieved by combining both techniques, resulting in an average accuracy of 99.07%. This study demonstrated that the addition of Depthwise Separable Convolution and CBAM techniques significantly enhanced the ResNet50 model's ability to classify pests in oil palm. The results are noteworthy. However, additional analysis is required to identify the factors contributing to specific misclassifications. Future recommendations include exploring additional model architectures and further evaluating the factors that influence model decisions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adding of vegetable oils to skincare products or the use of plant oils for oil care is a current trend. Therefore, the safety and functionality of vegetable oils are of great concern to consumers and cosmetics manufacturers. This study focused on three types of vegetable oils: sunflower oil (SO), andiroba oil (AO) and hydrogenated olive oil (HOO). We conducted a comprehensive evaluation of the oils, which encompassed their ability to protect mouse skin keratinocytes (XB-2) and mouse fibroblasts (NIH 3T3) from damage caused by the surfactant sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), their influence on the levels of filaggrin and collagen, their potential to aid in wound healing, and their effectiveness in anti-Staphylococcus aureus biofilm formation. The results showed that SO, AO and HOO at a concentration of 1.5 × 10-4% (v/v) have the ability to defend against SLS-induced cell damage, increase wound healing ability and the filaggrin and collagen content to XB-2 or NIH 3T3 cells. SO, AO and HOO at a concentration of 3.75 × 10-3% also have the anti-biofilm ability. Among the oils, AO can inhibit S. aureus biofilm composed of either polysaccharides or proteins. Therefore, the tested vegetable oils and can be applied to the cosmetics field as ingredients to repair damaged skin and preserve skin barrier stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The amount of saturated fat in cookies can be reduced by replacing margarine with oleogel, resulting in healthier products. In this study, the rheological and textural profile of cookies formulated with oleogel as the main margarine substitute was evaluated. Hemp seed vegetable oil was oleogelized with four types of waxes: beeswax (BW), carnauba wax (CW), candelilla wax (DW), rice bran wax (RW), and three oleogeling agents, sitosterol (S), pea protein (PP), and xanthan gum (XG), respectively. The textural and rheological properties of the oleogel dough samples were analyzed using the PertenTVT-6700 texturometer (Perten Instruments, Sweden) and the Haake rheometer. The results showed an increase in the hardness of cookie doughs with oleogels. The values of the elastic component (G′) and the viscous component (G″) increased, which means that the oleogels used affected the rheological behavior at 25 °C, causing an increase in the dough consistency. Sensory attributes, texture, and color parameters of cookies with oleogels were determined. The cookies' hardness increased significantly from 4409.83 ± 0.13 g (control sample) to 7085.33 ± 0.15 g in the cookie sample prepared with hemp oil sitosterol oleogel, whereas the sample with candelilla wax had the lowest hardness value of 4048.09 ± 0.14 g. The color of the oleogel cookies was darker than that of the control cookies. The cookie sample with hemp oil and beeswax oleogel was the most appreciated by the evaluators among the oleogel cookie samples. The findings suggest that hemp seed oil oleogel is an effective fat substitute in cookies, promoting the application of this vegetable oil in food products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bedaquiline is a drug used for the treatment of multidrug-resistant TB in adults and children that is currently only commercially available in tablet form. The present study was aimed at preparing nanoemulsion (NE) of BDQ using natural vegetable oils to deliver BDQ. The optimisation of surfactant mixtures was undertaken using Design of Experiments (DoE), specifically an optimal mixture design. The NEs were optimised while monitoring droplet size (DS), zeta potential (ZP), polydispersity index (PDI) and drug content (DC). The optimised NEs were further characterised using transmission electron microscopy, electrical conductivity, viscosity, pH and in vitro release studies. The optimised NE showed values of 191.6 nm ± 2.38 nm, 0.1176 ± 1.69, -25.9 mV ± 3.00 mV and 3.14 ± 0.82 mg/ml for DS, PDI, ZP and DC respectively. Furthermore, the TEM studies demonstrated the spherical shape of the optimised globules. The nanoemulsion was characterised by measuring its electrical conductivity, viscosity and pH which were determined as 53.1 µS/cm, 327 ± 3.05 cP and 5.63 ± 1.78, respectively. In conclusion, these NEs have great potential for improving solubility, drug delivery, and administration of BDQ. However, further studies are required to maximise the drug content and to demonstrate to what extent these NE have effect against MDR-TB. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic, inflammatory skin condition characterized by eczema lesions and dry, itchy skin. Recent guidelines for the management of AD emphasize the importance of using moisturizers in the management of AD. This study is a double‐blind clinical trial to determine the effectiveness of moisturizers containing anti‐inflammatory ingredients compared with moisturizers without anti‐inflammatory ingredients for skin hydration in mild to moderate adult AD patients for 14 days at the Dermatology and Venereology Outpatient Clinic at Dr. Soetomo General Academic Hospital. There was a significant difference (p < 0.05) at the baseline and day 14 skin hydration values in the experiment group with anti‐inflammatory ingredients (35.97 ± 6.04–66.06 ± 15.84) and the control group without anti‐inflammatory ingredients (40.74 ± 10.94–56.12 ± 8.34). After comparison, there was a significant difference (p < 0.05) in the skin hydration value between the experiment group and the control group on the 14th day. There was also a significant difference in the improvement of skin hydration outcomes between both groups (p < 0.05). The severity of the disease using Scoring Atopic Dermatitis (SCORAD) showed a significant difference (p < 0.05) between the experiment group and the control group after 2 weeks of intervention. The addition of anti‐inflammatory ingredients in the moisturizer, namely, shea butter, bacterial lysate, allantoin, bisabolol, Phragmites kharka extract, Poria cocos, and Mirabilis jalapa in a moisturizer containing occlusive (dimethicone), humectants (glycerin, saccharide, butylene glycol, and hyaluronic acid), and emollient (shea butter and squalane) was shown to be significantly better in improving skin hydration in patients with mild to moderate AD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Baghdad Science Journal is the property of Republic of Iraq Ministry of Higher Education & Scientific Research (MOHESR) and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The sensitivity of positron annihilation characteristics to changes in the molecular packing in network-forming polymers has been demonstrated since the early 1980s. Positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy (PALS) is a unique technique that can provide direct information on the free volume in polymers through the experimental parameters of the free volume hole distribution, their mean value, and volume fraction. This knowledge is currently applied for PALS investigations on the main processes that govern the molecular organization in some green polymers when subjected to different synthesis procedures or environmental conditions (humidity, physical aging, temperature). In this article, which includes a wide repertoire of works published in the last two decades, results of PALS studies on eco-sustainable polymer systems based on starch, chitosan, or vegetable oils, are analyzed and discussed. Many examples are taken from the direct experience of the authors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study is related to producing a set of fatty acid esters from different vegetable oils and C1–C12 alcohols. A total of 66 products were synthesized. The obtained esters were characterized by fatty acid composition, density, viscosity, saponification value, acid value, iodine value, low-temperature properties, and oxidative stability. It was established that the fatty acid composition, as well as alcohol, used has a significant impact on esters properties. Comparing physicochemical properties of fatty acid esters with existing standards and specifications, it was proposed to use esters for different industrial applications. In particular, rapeseed oil fatty acid methyl esters are an ideal candidate for application as biodiesel, while transesterification of soybean oil, sunflower oil, rapeseed oil, and coconut oil with higher alcohols led to products with promising properties as bio-lubricants. Castor oil alkyl esters could potentially be utilized as base oils due to their excellent viscosity and low-temperature properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The growing demand for sustainable and environmentally friendly fuels and the increasing need to diversify energy sources have stimulated significant research in the field of renewable motor fuels. Despite the progress made, there is still a need to expand the feedstocks, optimize technological pathways, and, in particular, conduct comprehensive studies of the compatibility of renewable components with traditional fuels. In light of the above, the authors propose optimizing the properties of renewable fuels by using new vegetable oils and alcohols for their synthesis. The work is focused on studying the basic physical–chemical properties of fatty acid esters and assessing the possibility of using them as renewable components of motor fuels. Renewable components were obtained via the esterification of selected plant oils (rapeseed oil, camelina oil, palm kernel oil, and coconut oil) with different alcohols (ethanol and isobutanol) with further vacuum distillation of esters. The influence of the structure and composition of renewable components on their physical–chemical properties was studied and substantiated. It shows how the carbon number distribution and double bonds in fatty acid radicals influence the properties of renewable components. The paper shows the impact of the type and structure of alcohol used for esterification on the properties of studied products. The regularities in the change in properties of renewable components depending on the composition of oils and alcohols are explained and substantiated from the point of view of physical chemistry and the basics of forces of intermolecular interactions. Renewable components were compared to the properties of conventional motor fuels (diesel fuel and jet fuel). Based on the level of component compatibility with petroleum fuels, recommendations for replacing or blending petroleum fuels with renewable components were proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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This review provides an overview of the main vegetable oils of different botanical origin and composition that can be used for frying worldwide (olive and extra-virgin olive oil, high-oleic sunflower oil, rapeseed oil, peanut oil, rice bran oil, sunflower oil, corn oil, soybean oil, cottonseed oil, palm oil, palm kernel oil and coconut oil) and their degradation during this process. It is well known that during this culinary technique, oil's major and minor components degrade throughout different reactions, mainly thermoxidation, polymerization and, to a lesser extent, hydrolysis. If severe high temperatures are employed, isomerization to trans fatty acyl chains and cyclization are also possible. The factors conditioning frying medium degradation are addressed, including oil composition (unsaturation degree, fatty acyl chain length and "free" fatty acid content, and presence of beneficial and detrimental minor components), together with frying conditions and food characteristics. Likewise, this review also tackles how the frying oil and other processing conditions may impact on fried food quality (oil absorption, texture, flavor and color). Finally, potential health implications of fried food consumption are briefly reviewed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, we present a unique system for identifying edible oils through the analysis of their thermophysical properties. The method is based on the use of active infrared thermography. The heating of the oils results from the optical absorption of laser radiation at a specified wavelength. This approach enables greater selectivity in differentiating between various types of edible oils, as the results depend not only on the thermal properties of the specific oils but also on their optical properties, which are uniquely characteristic of each oil. Additionally, the developed system provides a detailed visualization of spatial temperature gradients within the sample's volume, as well as their changes over time. It overcomes the limitations of other methods that determine only the thermal conductivity coefficients of oils through resistive heating of the sample. In this article, four types of vegetable oils (extra virgin olive oil, sesame oil, sunflower oil, and rapeseed oil) have been studied. Fatty acid analysis, differential scanning calorimetry, and UV-VIS spectroscopy have been used to determine the authenticity, moisture content, and optical properties of the studied samples. The developed system allows for the visualization and determination of the emerging temperature gradients in the sample volume. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Featured Application: 2-Ethylhexyl nitrate (EHN) has demonstrated its effectiveness as a low-viscosity, high-cetane (LVHC) solvent for reducing the viscosity of straight vegetable oils (SVO) while improving their cetane number. This allows for better performance in diesel engines with comparable power output and stable emissions. Additionally, EHN could be produced in a renewable way using green hydrogen and biomass-derived components to enhance its environmental sustainability, making it an ideal candidate for biofuel blends in diesel engines, offering a partial replacement for fossil diesel. This study evaluates the performance of biofuels created from triple blends of fossil diesel, sunflower or castor oil (SVOs), and 2-Ethylhexyl Nitrate (EHN), a low-viscosity, high-cetane (LVHC) solvent. EHN reduces the viscosity of SVOs to enable their use in conventional diesel engines without compromising fuel properties. The results show that the power output from these blends is similar to or greater than that of fossil diesel, with comparable fuel consumption. Furthermore, the blends significantly reduce emissions of carbon monoxide (CO) and soot, though NOx emissions are slightly higher due to the nitrogen content in EHN. However, NOx levels remain within permissible limits. The substitution of fossil diesel could be further enhanced if EHN were produced using green hydrogen and lignocellulosic biomass, making it a renewable and sustainable biofuel component. These findings support the potential of EHN/SVO biofuel blends to replace a significant portion of fossil diesel in conventional diesel engines while maintaining performance and reducing harmful emissions, except for a slight increase in NOx. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Atopic dermatitis is an inflammatory skin condition characterized by erythema, eruption, lichenification, and pruritus. Aged Camellia oleifera Abel oil, an effective empirical plant oil utilized by the Gannan Hakka people in China to alleviate the symptoms of atopic dermatitis. However, no scientific studies have been reported to prove whether this oil is truly effective. We conducted this study to confirm whether aged C. oleifera oil could alleviate the symptoms of 2,4-dinitrochlorobenzene (DNCB)-induced atopic dermatitis in mice. Differences in the thickness and weight of the right and left ears were measured. ELISA was used to determine the serum levels of the inflammatory factors IL-4, IgE, IFN-γ, and TNF-α. HE staining was performed to observe inflammatory cell infiltration in the mouse skin lesions. In addition, the metabolites of aged C. oleifera oils were analyzed, and molecular docking was used to assess the binding affinity of the major metabolites to filaggrin, a protein involved in skin barrier function. Animal studies showed that aged C. oleifera oil significantly improved the symptoms of atopic dermatitis. HE staining and measurement of inflammatory factor levels revealed similar results. A total of 41 metabolites were tentatively identified in the oil, with fatty acids emerging as the major metabolites. Molecular docking confirmed that the three most abundant fatty acids, i.e., oleic acid, n -hexadecanoic acid, and octadecanoic acid, bind well to filaggrin. Our results suggest that aged C. oleifera oils can be used to ameliorate the symptoms of atopic dermatitis. Fatty acids may be the major active metabolites responsible for the observed therapeutic effects by reducing transdermal water loss, increasing skin hydration, alleviating DNCB-induced skin barrier alterations, and eliminating itchy scratching caused by dry skin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant essential oils are volatile, lipophilic compounds extracted from aromatic plants, most of which possess potent antibacterial properties, and some also have antioxidant effects. Combining plant essential oils with active packaging materials to prepare antimicrobial packaging can realize the controlled delivery of essential oils to packaged food and enhance the performance of the packaging system, so as to achieve the purpose of maintaining the sensory quality of food and prolonging the shelf life of food. This paper reviews the construction of antibacterial film, antibacterial sachets and antibacterial absorbent pads containing plant essential oil, and summarizes their application effects in the preservation of livestock meat, aquatic products and flour products. Essential oils in antibacterial packaging migrate to packaged food through diffusion, and the migration rate and amount are affected by the type and composition of essential oils, packaging materials, packaging environment relative humidity and temperature and other factors. Antibacterial packaging containing plant essential oils can realize active quality preservation of packaged food, and has a wide application prospect in food storage and circulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Paper finishing, in particular, coating paper with desired barrier functions is well‐developed as of today. However, due to large amounts of material and process energy as well as the use of non‐renewable resources for such coatings, common technologies are not sustainable. Given the increasing importance of paper in manifold applications, more sustainable routes with low‐energy processes as well as biogenic material alternatives are highly needed. To address this challenge, a solvent‐free and material‐efficient approach is proposed to bio‐based paper coatings by depositing chia oil‐based plasma polymers using a jet‐induced sliding discharge concept at atmospheric pressure. Depending on the amount of coating and the paper porosity, this treatment retards water absorption. Coating visualization is enabled through confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Like chia oil, safflower oil, and olive oil show the ability to hydrophobize paper and the great potential within plasma polymerized vegetable oils to make the paper coating more sustainable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The use of plant essential oils as anesthetics for fish has gained increasing attention, but ethanol, often used as a co-solvent, presents certain limitations. Recently, Magnolia denudata essential oil (MDO) has emerged as a promising alternative for fish anesthesia and sedation. Methods and results: To further improve MDO anesthesia efficacy, this study developed nanoemulsion (NE) and self-microemulsifying drug delivery system (SMEDDS) formulations of MDO. Transmission electron microscopy and stability tests confirmed that both NE and SMEDDS possess smaller particle sizes and are stable under various temperature conditions. Anesthetic trials on fish demonstrated that these formulations reduced the time needed to induce anesthesia compared with the non-formulations. Additionally, physiological assessments of the fish gills showed that neither NE nor SMEDDS caused irreversible damage to respiratory function. Discussion: Overall, NE and SMEDDS present a safe and effective delivery system for MDO, enhancing its anesthetic properties while minimizing potential harm to aquatic organisms compared to traditional methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Fatty acids and monoglycerides from vegetable oils or animal fats are crucial in various industries. Monoglycerides, with their hydrophilic and hydrophobic properties, act as effective non‐ionic surfactants for oil‐in‐water emulsions. Scaling‐up the synthesis of biodegradable non‐ionic surfactants from natural sources presents challenges in maintaining physicochemical properties. This study investigates the scale‐up synthesis of biodegradable non‐ionic surfactants using sunflower oil and glycerol, focusing on properties like kinematic viscosity, acid number, and active matter content. Comparative experiments were conducted using different reactor sizes and configurations, evaluating the effects of reactor size, length‐to‐diameter (L/D) ratio, and mixer type. The results indicate that larger reactors generally reduce kinematic viscosity and active matter content. The geometric characteristics of the reactor significantly impact surfactant properties with variations in the RD/RH ratio affecting the active matter content and changes in the MPD/RD ratio influencing the water number. Based on our findings, the highest active matter content was achieved with an RD/RH ratio of 0.49 and an MPD/RD ratio of 0.95. A strong correlation was found between the active matter content and water solubility. The study underscores the importance of reactor design in optimizing surfactant properties when scaling‐up. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ompok bimaculatus is a commercially important food fish of Northeast India. For higher production of this species, the molecular mechanisms underlying its reproductive physiology is an important aspect to study. Vegetable oils are rich in ω3 and ω6 fatty acids and fat-soluble vitamins, that enhance reproductive performances. In the present study, O. bimaculatus were first fed with vegetable oil at 3, 5, 7 and 9% in the diet. The best treatment was determined by the analysis of relative fecundity, fertilisation rate, Gonadosomatic Index (GSI) and Hepatosomatic Index (HIS). Comparative transcriptomics analysis of gonadal tissues between control and best treatment was done using Illumina NextSeq500. The bioinformatics analysis by Trinity v2.11.0 and edgeR v3.32.1 identified 36 DEGs related to reproduction, those were later validated by qPCR analysis. The Differentially Expressed Genes (DEGs) revealed, regulation of Hypothalamic—pituitary—gonadal axis (HPG) axis through retinoid signalling pathway, IGF pathway and folliculogenesis pathway, including inhibitory effects of dietary vegetable oil on fish gonadal maturation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The seed kernel of Terminalia catappa Linn (T. catappa) is an underutilized plant food with promising potential. This study investigated the physicochemical properties, fatty acid composition, thermal behavior, and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectral characteristics of oils extracted from kernels of yellow and purple cultivars of T. catappa and proximate compositions of their defatted residues. The oils extracted through a cold press micro-expeller, differed in color, with yellow oil being lighter than purple oil. Both cultivars demonstrated high iodine values and lower saponification values. Thermal profiles displayed major exothermic and endothermic peaks associated with the crystallization and melting of triacylglycerols (TAGs). Both oils were rich in unsaturated fatty acids (USFAs), particularly oleic and linoleic acids, with palmitic acid being the predominant saturated fatty acid (SFA). FTIR spectra indicated the presence of functional groups such as methyl, methylene and esters representing the complex composition of the oils. Proximate composition analysis revealed that whole kernels were high in fat, while defatted residues were richer in protein and minerals. These findings suggest that T. catappa kernels from both cultivars were good sources of plant oils with potential for high-fat products, and defatted residues could be used in protein-rich supplements, offering diverse industrial applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: This study aimed to evaluate the active constituents and fumigation effectiveness of 16 distinct plant essential oils (EOs) on greater wax moth (GWM) eggs and fifth instar larvae. The results show that wintergreen, star anise, and clove oils exerted significant insecticidal effects on both GWM eggs and fifth instar larvae. Methyl salicylate and trans-anethole, which constitute 93.26% and 87.75% of wintergreen and star anise oils, respectively, function as the sole active ingredient of their respective oils. Eugenol, which constitutes 77.75% of clove oil, is primarily responsible for its insecticidal activity, although it is not the sole contributor. All these EO components exhibit significant insecticidal properties, with trans-anethole demonstrating the highest level of toxicity. Our research adds valuable insights to the literature by presenting the first investigation into the effectiveness of EOs for fumigating GWM eggs. Moreover, the results highlight the potential use of anise oil as a novel approach for managing GWM, thus offering a more efficient alternative to traditional methods. The greater wax moth (GWM, Galleria mellonella) is a prevalent pest of the honeybee and a significant risk to both honeybee populations and honeycomb storage. Research on the toxicity of essential oils (EOs) to GWM larvae has provided promising results, although their ovicidal effects and active ingredients require further study. Identifying effective plant compounds is essential for developing insecticides for GWM control. This study assessed the fumigation efficacy of 16 EOs on GWM eggs and fifth instar larvae and determined the effectiveness of these EOs and their primary components for fumigating fifth larvae. Wintergreen, star anise, and clove oils demonstrated significant insecticidal effects on GWM eggs and fifth instar larvae, resulting in a mortality rate exceeding 80% within 48 h. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis identified methyl salicylate (93.26%), trans-anethole (87.75%), and eugenol (77.75%) as the primary compounds in wintergreen, star anise, and clove oils, respectively. Further toxicity testing confirmed that these compounds were responsible for the observed insecticidal properties of the EOs. Notably, trans-anethole exhibited the lowest LC50 value (25.22 μL/L) against the fifth instar larvae of GWM and significant toxicity against GWM eggs and fifth instar larvae, suggesting its potential as a viable option for the future control of GWM populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Insecticide resistance is a prevailing global concern mandating the search for alternative control intervention and adopting innovative approaches such as insecticide coated curtains, insecticide-incorporated paints and the possibility of adulticidal trials using the ready-to-use humidifier. Objectives: This study critically tested the larvicidal, pupicidal and adulticidal validity of the two plant essential oils, African basil (Ocimum gratissimum) and pignut leave (Mesosphaerum suaveolens) on Cx. quinquefasciatus Methodology: Twenty, third instar larvae and pupae of Cx. quinquefasciatus were introduced into vials containing 1 ml and 0.5 ml of the essential oil in100 ml, 250 ml and 500 ml of water to form 0.01%, 0.001%, 0.002% 0.004% and 0.005% concentrations respectively. The exposure was done in triplicates. Mortality readings were taken at intervals of 10, 15, 20, 30, 40, 50, and 60 min adhering strictly to the WHO standard protocols. The highest concentrations, 0.01% (1 ml:100 ml) and 0.005% (0.5 ml:100 ml), were tried on adult mosquitoes in a 200 cm squared cage using ready-to-use humidifier. Results: Mean mortality was highest in larvae exposed to O. gratissimum. Pupicidal activities of O. gratissimum oil was higher than M. suaveolens. Adult mosquitoes exposed to 0.005% of both plant oils caused highest mortality. The differences between the mean mortalities were significant (p <.05). Lethal Concentration (LC50 and LC95) of O. gratissimum and M. suaveolens exposed to larvae were 0.011 and 0.021%, and 0.024 and 0.042% respectively. Similarly, for pupicidal exposure, LC50 and LC95 were 0.019 and 0.041%, and 0.041 and 0.072% respectively. O. gratissimum oil was more efficacious especially for larval control. Conclusion: Adulticidal efficacy of the essential oils can be enhanced through anticipated efforts towards emulsifying and synergizing them with other plant oils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neonatal hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) is a severe disease with a poor prognosis, whose clinical treatment is still limited to therapeutic hypothermia with limited efficacy. Perillyl alcohol (POH), a natural monoterpene found in various plant essential oils, has shown neuroprotective properties, though its effects on HIE are not well understood. This study investigates the neuroprotective effects of POH on HIE both in vitro and in vivo. We established an in vitro model using glucose deprivation and hypoxia/reperfusion (OGD/R) in PC12 cells, alongside an in vivo model via the modified Rice-Vannucci method. Results indicated that POH acted as an indirect antioxidant, reducing inducible nitric oxide synthase and malondialdehyde production, maintaining content of antioxidant molecules and enzymes in OGD/R-induced PC12 cells. In vivo, POH remarkably lessened infarct volume, reduced cerebral edema, accelerated tissue regeneration, and blocked reactive astrogliosis after hypoxic-ischemic brain injury. POH exerted antiapoptotic activities through both the intrinsic and extrinsic apoptotic pathways. Mechanistically, POH activated Nrf2 and inactivated its negative regulator Keap1. The use of ML385, a Nrf2 inhibitor, reversed these effects. Overall, POH mitigates neuronal damage in HIE by combating oxidative stress, reducing inflammation, and inhibiting apoptosis via the Nrf2/Keap1 pathway, suggesting its potential for HIE treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of pesticides causes significant environmental problems, which drives the search for natural and non-toxic alternatives. In this study, a glycolipid biosurfactant (BS), produced by the yeast Starmerella bombicola ATCC 22214, was utilized as an active ingredient in natural agricultural defensive blends. The mixtures were tested for their fungicidal potential against phytopathogenic fungi isolated from fruits such as papaya, orange, and banana, demonstrating strong inhibition of fungal growth. The genera Penicillium, Colletotrichum, and Aspergillus were the pathogens present in the deterioration of the fruits used in the experiment. The biosurfactant was produced in a fermenter, yielding 10 g/L and reducing the surface tension to 31.56 mN/m, with a critical micelle concentration (CMC) of 366 mg/L. Blends of BS with oleic acid (T1) and lemongrass oil (T2) were found to be effective in controlling fungi. Additionally, the phytotoxicity of these formulations was assessed using Cucumis anguria (gherkin) seeds, where the blend of BS with castor oil (T4) showed the best performance, promoting seed germination. These results indicate the potential of such mixtures as natural alternatives for fungal control in plants and for application in sustainable agricultural systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Geopolymers are a modern class of construction materials that show significant potential for sustainable development, especially through the use of industrial wastes such as fly ash. This study investigated the effect of different oil additives on the properties of fly ash-based geopolymers, with particular emphasis on the use of both new and used oils. Test samples were prepared using class F fly ash and a 10-molar solution of sodium hydroxide and an aqueous solution of sodium silicate. Oil additives were added at 5%, 10% and 15% by weight. The physical and mechanical properties of the samples were assessed by measuring density, thermal conductivity, compressive and flexural strength, and by analyzing porosity and microstructure. The results showed that oil additives significantly affected the pore structure and mechanical properties of the geopolymers. Furthermore, the type and condition of the used oil determined the mechanical properties, including compressive and flexural strength. Research indicates the possibility of using oils as additives to geopolymers, which helps improve their physical properties and promotes sustainable development through recycling oil waste. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The objective of this study was to study the insecticidal and repellent effect of the essential oil of the plant Eucalyptus camaldulensis Red Dehnh extracted by hydrodistillation method planted in the Ouargla region against the black aphid. Methods: The insecticidal effect of essential oils against aphid mortality by the introduction of bean leaflets in the different oily extracts with different concentrations and the count of dead individuals after 3, 6 and 24 h at the physiology laboratory in Ghardaïa University. Result: Through this study, the leaves treated with the major compounds of Eucalyptus camaldulensis essential oil such as Benzene, 1-methyl-4-(1-methylethyl) at 35 per cent concentration after 24 hours, a 65 per cent aphid mortality was recorded which is more effective compared to Sabinene and essential oils of Eucalyptus camaldulensis at different concentrations (5; 35% and 50 per cent). As for the repellent effect is 87 per cent after 6 hours for the pure essential oil of E. camaldulensis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study aimed to evaluate the effect of the dietary inclusion of silkworm (Bombyx mori) oil (SWO) in rabbit diets as a total replacement of sunflower oil on growth performance, carcase traits, total tract apparent digestibility (TTAD) and nutritive value of the diets. A total of n = 64 mixed-sex weaned rabbits (5-week-old) were pair-housed in cages and fed with a commercial diet containing 1.3% sunflower oil (control). From 7 to 10 weeks of age, two experimental groups were formed: half of the rabbits received a control diet, and the other half received a diet where the sunflower oil was replaced by the SWO. During the trial, growth parameters and feed intake were weekly recorded to calculate productive parameters. At 10 weeks of age, rabbits were slaughtered and dissected to determine carcase traits. In parallel to the growth trial, another twenty-four 55-day-old rabbits were individually housed in digestibility cages and randomly assigned to one of the two experimental groups (n = 12 rabbits/group) to study the TTAD and nutritive value of the diets. Overall, the dietary inclusion of SWO did not affect the in vivo performance and carcase traits of rabbits. Additionally, the TTAD of rabbits was unaffected by SWO inclusion, although the SWO diet exhibited lower digestible energy (DE) compared to the control diet (p <.05). These findings emphasise the importance of further investigating the nutritive value of SWO-supplemented diets in future studies. In conclusion, SWO can be considered a promising energy source for growing rabbits, an alternative to conventional vegetable oils. Highlights: Silkworm oil (SWO) is a feasible feedstuff for rabbit diets to substitute conventional energy sources. Total tract apparent digestibility of nutrients was not altered by the inclusion of SWO in growing rabbit diets. Growing rabbits fed with SWO as complete replacement sunflower oil showed satisfactory growth performance and carcase traits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]