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  • 14 Reads
Bionematicidal potential of undecanoic acid against plant root parasitic nematodes
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The growing demand for sustainable and cost-effective alternatives to synthetic nematicides has driven interest in naturally derived compounds with selective activity against plant-parasitic nematodes. In this study, we evaluated the bionematicidal potential of undecanoic acid, a naturally occurring medium-chain (C11) fatty acid, against two economically important root-knot nematodes: Meloidogyne ethiopica and M. graminicola. Direct contact bioassays demonstrated 100% mortality of both species within 24 hours of exposure to a 1 mg/mL concentration, confirming strong and rapid nematicidal activity. In contrast, exposure of a non-target, the free-living soil nematode Cephalobus sp., resulted in only ca. 40% mortality, suggesting a favorable degree of selectivity toward phytoparasites. Additionally, environmental fate modeling indicated a predicted distribution of this compound of ca. 62 % in soil, 20 % in air, and 16 % in water environmental compartments, consistent with its use as a soil-applied agent, while highlighting the need for environmental risk assessment under field conditions. As a naturally sourced compound, undecanoic acid offers advantages over synthetic nematicides, not only due to its biodegradability and potential reduced environmental impact, but also its lower cost compared to commercial pesticide active ingredients. The selective toxicity of undecanoic acid makes it a favorable candidate for integrated pest management (IPM) programs, particularly in low-input or organic systems. These results underscore the potential of this naturally occurring fatty acid as an effective and sustainable tool for nematode control. Further studies on formulation optimization, persistence, and field efficacy will be needed to fully realize its application in agricultural systems.

  • Open access
  • 4 Reads
Synthesis of biologically active arginine derivatives derived from salicylamide

Peptidomimetics represent a promising class of biologically active compounds with broad therapeutic potential.1 In general, peptidomimetics mimic the function of natural peptides in the human body while overcoming their limitations, such as low stability or poor bioavailability, thereby finding application in the treatment of various diseases.2,3 This study focuses on the synthesis of peptidomimetics derived from salicylic acid and arginine. Salicylic acid–based peptidomimetics have previously been synthesized by the Imramovsky research group and demonstrated both anticancer and antimicrobial activity.4–7 Peptidomimetics incorporating an arginine moiety exhibit a wide range of biological effects, including antimicrobial8, antiviral9, antifungal10, anticancer (e.g., cilengitide)11, and activity against cardiovascular (e.g., argatroban)12 and neurodegenerative diseases13,14. In this study, peptidomimetic compounds containing both a salicylic acid derivative and an arginine moiety were designed and synthesized. The synthetic route was based on the construction of the main peptidomimetic backbone via Steglich amidation15 and the side chain functionalization of arginine through ornithine guanidylation16. In total, 14 original compounds were synthesized throughout the synthetic route, including intermediates, key ornithine intermediates, and final peptidomimetics. The synthetic route consisted of 7 to 8 steps depending on the form of the final compound – dihydrochloride or (bis)trifluoroacetate. Specifically, 6 arginine-based peptidomimetics (7, 8, 9) and 2 key ornithine intermediates were obtained (5). The final compounds were fully characterized by means of 1H NMR, 13C NMR, 19F NMR, HRMS, and elemental analysis. In conclusion, the proposed synthetic route was repeatedly verified, and the target compounds were successfully prepared in a quality suitable for biological testing.

  • Open access
  • 5 Reads
A Novel Chalcone Derivative from the Ethyl acetate Fraction of Nelsonia canescens: Isolation and Structural Elucidation Techniques
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The increasing resistance of pathogens to conventional antibiotics has necessitated the search for novel antimicrobial agents from medicinal plants. Nelsonia canescens, a plant traditionally used in African and Asian in the management of diseases such as viral infections, cardiovascular, and inflammation, have been reported with antimicrobial activity, was investigated for its bioactive constituents. The whole plant was collected, air-dried, and extracted using 70% methanol. The crude methanol extract was partitioned into hexane, chloroform, ethyl acetate, and butanol fractions respectively. The ethyl acetate fraction was subjected to column chromatography and gel filtration, leading to the isolation of a compound coded A₁. The structure of compound A₁ was established through UV, FTIR, NMR (¹H, ¹³C, DEPT, COSY, HMQC, HMBC), and chemical tests. Compound A₁ was identified as 2', 4'-dihydroxy-3-ethanol-5-(1→4) glucose-rhamnose chalcone, a flavonoid derivative. Spectral analysis confirmed its structure, with key signals including olefinic protons (δ 6.30 and 7.62) in the trans configuration, aromatic protons, and sugar moieties. The compound exhibited a melting point of 105–107°C and was sparingly soluble in chloroform but fully soluble in methanol suggesting that the compound is highly polar in nature. This is the first report of isolation of 2', 4’-dihydroxy-3-ethanol-5-(1→4) glucose-rhamnose chalcone from Nelsonia canescens, and new to the genus contributing to the taxonomy of the plant. The compound’s structural features suggest potential bioactive properties, warranting further investigation into its pharmacological applications through in vitro and molecular docking studies.

  • Open access
  • 1 Read
Some reactions and properties of triethylammonium 2-oxo-1-(2-oxoindoline-3-ylidene)-2-phenylethane-1-thiolate

α-Thiocyanate carbonyl compounds occupy a special place in modern organic and heterocyclic chemistry, acting as highly reactive bifunctional synthons. Their unique value lies in the combination of an electrophilic carbonyl center and the rich reactive chemistry of the thiocyanate group (-SCN) separated by an activated α-carbon atom. This architecture determines their role as strategic intermediates for the construction of a wide range of sulfur-containing heterocyclic systems. Organic compounds that contain a thiocyanate group have been used as precursors for agrochemicals, dyes, and medicines. This fragment is an important functional group in several anticancer pharmaceuticals.

Previously, the reaction of thiocyanatoacetophenone (phenacyl thiocyanate) with isatin in the presence of triethylamine was described in the literature. We investigated the properties of the product, triethylammonium 2-oxo-1-(2-oxoindoline-3-ylidene)-2-phenylethane-1-thiolate. The resulting thiolate was introduced in the alkylation reaction, which proceeds regioselectively at sulfur atom. The structure of the products has been characterized by spectral methods, including Fourier IR spectrophotometry and 1H and 13C NMR spectroscopy. The agrochemical potential was also investigated. A study of the herbicide safening effect against herbicide 2,4-D on sunflower seedlings has shown that the compounds obtained exhibit sufficiently high activity and can be used as plant protection agents.

  • Open access
  • 1 Read
Physicochemical Integrity and Sensory Profiling of Algerian Honeys: Insights into Floral Diversity and Consumer Perception

This study presents a preliminary characterisation of 37 honey samples from western Algeria, encompassing a wide range of botanical origins such as lavender, rosemary, thyme, euphorbia, eucalyptus, sage, and multifloral varieties. A series of quality-related physicochemical parameters were determined, including moisture, pH, free acidity, electrical conductivity, hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF), proline, sugar profile (glucose, fructose, sucrose), optical rotation, and chromatic attributes (L*, a*, b*, chroma, and hue angle). All measured values complied with established European regulations, indicating overall product conformity. Notably, proline and HMF contents served as useful indicators of freshness and botanical authenticity. Colour variation among samples further reflected floral diversity. To assess consumer-relevant features, a sensory comparison was carried out between the Algerian honeys and four well-characterised Polish references. A dual sensory protocol was applied, combining a five-point hedonic test (evaluating taste, aroma, and colour preferences) and a Check-All-That-Apply (CATA) questionnaire using eleven sensory descriptors. While Polish honeys generally scored higher in hedonic ratings for taste and aroma, several Algerian samples displayed comparable consumer acceptance, particularly those derived from rosemary and multifloral sources. Multivariate analysis (PCA and hierarchical clustering) revealed three distinct sensory clusters, demonstrating the richness and differentiation of Algerian profiles. These findings highlight the promising positioning of Algerian honeys on international markets and support their inclusion in future food quality and labelling initiatives.

  • Open access
  • 13 Reads
Synthesis of amphiphilic organocatalysts derived from L-proline

Organocatalysis, as defined by MacMillan, involves the use of low-molecular-weight organic molecules as catalysts in organic reactions. In the 21st century, significant efforts have been made to develop more sustainable organocatalyzed processes, emphasizing the production of enantiomerically pure compounds while adhering to the 12 principles of Green Chemistry. Organocatalysts synthesized from L-proline have demonstrated effectiveness in catalyzing various asymmetric reactions. Additionally, the choice of reaction medium plays a crucial role; using environmentally friendly solvents, such as water or brine solutions, can facilitate the formation of stable emulsions that enhance the interaction between the organocatalyst and the reactants. This work describes the synthesis of two organocatalysts derived from L-proline through a five-step process. The resulting compounds are (S)-7-(pyrrolidin-2-yl)tridecan-7-amine and (S)-2-(7-azidotridecan-7-yl)pyrrolidine. These compounds have two key characteristics: they are pyrrolidine derivatives functionalized at the C-2 position and they possess aliphatic chains of six carbon atoms. The obtained products were characterized using ¹H-NMR, ¹³C-NMR, DEPT, COSY, HSQC, and HMBC, with the signals confirming their proposed structures. The compounds were achieved with overall yields of 37% and 5%, respectively. A significant advantage of these products is that they can be classified as amphiphilic catalysts due to the presence of both hydrophilic and hydrophobic components in their structures. This structural feature enables the catalysts to form stable emulsions, thus promoting organic reactions in aqueous media.

  • Open access
  • 3 Reads
New synthetic applications of 2-benzylidene-1-indanones: Synthesis of 4b,10,10a,11-tetrahydro-5H-indeno[1,2-H]quinoline and 1'-(diisopropylamino)-2,2'-spirobi[indene]-1,3'(1'H,3H)-dione

2-Benzylidene-1-indanones (BI) constitute a family of heterocyclic compounds with a wide range of pharmacological and material applications. Their structure and biological activity make them promising candidates for new bioactive entities and functional materials.

Preliminary results of new chemistry in this field are presented here, consisting of a) the transformation of (E)-2-(2-nitrobenzylidene)-2,3-dihydro-1H-inden-1-one (BI-NO2) into 4b,10,10a,11-tetrahydro-5H-indeno[1,2-b]quinoline (TIQ) and b) the transformation of methyl (E)-2- ((1-oxo-1,3-dihydro-2H-inden-2-ylidene)methyl)benzoate (MOIB) into 1'-(diisopropylamino)-2,2'-spirobi[indene]-1,3'(1'H,3H)-dione (DSI).

An acid-mediated aldolic condensation of 1-indanone with o-nitrobenzaldehyde provided BI-NO2, which, when subjected to catalytic hydrogenation, led directly to the tetracyclic quinoline TIQ, as could be established from its analytical and spectroscopic data. Its HRMS confirmed its molecular formula C16H15N, and its 13C NMR spectrum includes signals from 8 aromatic protons, as well as signals from 2 tertiary aliphatic carbons and 2 secondary aliphatic carbons.

The formation of this quinoline TQI must be the result of several successive spontaneous reactions.

On the other hand, basic-mediated aldolic condensation of 1-indanone with o-methoxycarbonylbenzaldehyde provided MOIB, which, when treated with LDA, led to the formation of the spiran derivative (DSI), whose molecular formula was confirmed from its HRMS, and its 13C NMR shows signals of 8 aromatic carbons, together with the signal of its spirocarbon and the signals of the two carbonyl carbons.

  • Open access
  • 2 Reads
DEVELOPMENT AND BIOLOGICAL EVALUATION OF NOVEL 1,3,4-THIADIAZOLE COMPOUNDS TARGETING TNF-Α IN CANCER TREATMENT
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In the pursuit of novel anticancer agents, a new series of 1,3,4-thiadiazole derivatives was designed and synthesized, aiming to inhibit tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), a pro-inflammatory cytokine implicated in cancer progression and metastasis. The synthesis involved the initial condensation of substituted anilines with chloroacetic acid to yield 2-(substituted phenylamino)acetic acids, which were then esterified and converted to hydrazides. Cyclization with carbon disulfide and further functionalization produced oxadiazole, thiadiazole, and triazole intermediates. Final thiadiazole-based derivatives (compounds 8a–8d) were obtained by alkylation with substituted phenacyl bromides.

These compounds were biologically evaluated for anticancer potential with specific focus on TNF-α inhibition, a critical target in inflammatory and tumorigenic signaling pathways. In silico docking and in vitro testing suggested strong binding affinities of the synthesized molecules to the TNF-α active site, indicating their possible role in downregulating pro-inflammatory responses associated with tumor development. Biological screening demonstrated promising cytotoxicity profiles in preliminary in vitro cancer models.

Structure-activity relationship (SAR) analysis revealed that electron-withdrawing groups (Cl and F) on the thiadiazole scaffold significantly enhanced TNF-α targeting and anticancer activity. These findings support the potential of these thiadiazole derivatives as promising anticancer agents targeting TNF-α.

Keywords: 1,3,4-thiadiazole; TNF-α inhibition; anticancer agents; synthesis; molecular docking

  • Open access
  • 2 Reads
Lignin-Catalyzed Synthesis of Phenoxyacetic Acid: A Green Approach to Functional Molecule Development
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Phenoxy acetic acid is common reagent which is synthesize by reaction of phenol and chloroacetic acid. This study underscores the importance of Phenoxy acetic acid derivatives as valuable building blocks for the development of functional molecules with diverse applications. Here we are utilizing the biowaste derived lignin (BDC) as catalyst. As the nature of lignin provides porous surface for reaction with mild acidic nature to occur and speed up the reaction. The catalyst was isolated and charecterise for its surface morphology by BET, SEM analysis. Phenoxyacetic acid (PAA) was synthesized from the reaction of phenol and chloro acetic acid in preents of lignin catalyst. The reaction obays the green protocol performed in water as solvent. It was noted the optimized conditions of reaction at ambient temperature range of 60-65o C and 10 mole % of catalyst. The reaction of phenol with chloroacetic acid under alkaline conditions yielding the product in the range of 78-82 %. The progress of the reaction was monitored by TLC (Toluene: MeoH 9:1). After completion of reaction in 20-40 minutes added 35 % HCl to get pH neutral. Further filter the reaction mixture to separate the catalyst. Collect filtrat and extract with benzene and vacuum distilled for desired product. Lignin as catalyst play important role in chemical reaction where rate of reaction depending on the surface area available at catalyst site.

  • Open access
  • 4 Reads
Nanostructured Algerian Coal: A Sustainable Carbon Source for Advanced Synthetic Applications

In response to the growing demand for sustainable and resource-efficient alternatives in synthetic chemistry, this study explores the untapped potential of Algerian coal as a renewable, nanostructured, carbon-rich material. Traditionally perceived as a fossil energy source, this indigenous and underutilized resource is revisited for its suitability in eco-friendly and advanced synthetic organic applications.

A comprehensive physicochemical characterization was carried out using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), X-ray Diffraction (XRD) with Rietveld refinement, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), and Raman Spectroscopy. The analyses revealed a heterogeneous, porous structure dominated by carbon (98.8%) and silica (1.2%), with nanocrystallites averaging ~18 nm in size. Raman spectroscopy confirmed the presence of both graphitic and disordered carbon domains—an ideal structural configuration for molecular adsorption, surface functionalization, redox reactivity, and catalytic activity.

These findings suggest a transformative role for Algerian coal as a sustainable feedstock in the design of porous nanocomposites, supramolecular carbon-based architectures, hybrid polymer systems, and smart functional materials. This study presents the first nanoscale investigation of this local raw material, opening new interdisciplinary perspectives for its integration into green synthetic processes and emerging materials chemistry.

By reimagining coal as a functional platform rather than merely a fuel, this research contributes to circular economy strategies and advances innovation within synthetic organic, environmental, and materials chemistry.

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