Artículos (Química Analítica)
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Artículo Montmorillonite-Supported PdO/ZnO Heterointerfaces for Enhanced Ciprofloxacin Removal from Water(Springer, 2026-07-24) Filho, Adilson José Neres; Albuquerque, Willams Apolo; Paula-Alves, Ellyson Sergio; Romaguera-Barcelay, Yonny; Orta Cuevas, María del Mar; Trigueiro, Pollyana; Peña García, Ramón Raudel; Química AnalíticaPersistent antibiotics such as ciprofloxacin (CIP) require treatment materials that couple pollutant adsorption, efficient photoinduced charge utilization, and structural stability during aqueous operation. In this work, zinc oxide (ZnO) was incorporated into montmorillonite and subsequently coupled with PdO to obtain PdO–ZnO heterointerfaces within a claysupported framework for CIP removal under UV irradiation. X-ray diffraction identified wurtzite ZnO and montmorillonite as the major crystalline phases. Nitrogen adsorption–desorption showed mesoporosity, with a specific surface area of 23 m2 g−1 and pore volume of 0.127 cm3 g−1 for the PdO-free composite, and 21–22 m2 g−1 with 0.113–0.123 cm3 g−1 after PdO inclusion. The average pore diameter increased from ~ 14 nm to ~ 21–23 nm. Diffuse reflectance UV–visible spectroscopy indicated a small but systematic band gap decrease from 3.196 to 3.137 eV with increasing PdO content. Under UV irradiation at 0.5 g L−1 catalyst, 20 mg L−1 CIP, and pH 6, the composite with the highest PdO loading (ZMP5) achieved ~ 90% removal within 120 min and the highest pseudo-first-order rate constant (0.01257 min−1), whereas the other compositions fell in the 0.00833–0.00978 min−1 range. Scavenger experiments reduced total removal from ~ 90 to ~ 81–85%, supporting parallel oxidative pathways involving superoxide-related routes, hydroxyl radicals, and photogenerated holes. Reuse tests showed total removal decreasing from 90 to 31% over four cycles, driven by adsorption loss (51 to ~ 1%) while the photocatalytic contribution remained comparatively less affected (39–30%). Post-reuse scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, and Raman spectroscopy indicated preserved lamellar morphology and retained Zn and Pd signals, consistent with structural stability of the oxide–clay architecture. These results show that PdO loading can tune adsorption–photocatalysis coupling in a montmorillonite-supported ZnO framework while preserving the textural and structural features required for repeated aqueous operation.
Artículo Sustainable bacterial cellulose-chitosan composite: A novel approach for the treatment of osteochondral defects(Elsevier, 2026-12) Castillejo, Ana; Martínez Muñoz, Guillermo; Delgado Pujol, Ernesto J.; Casado Jurado, David; Rodríguez Lucena, David; Vázquez Cabello, Juan; Pérez Bernal, Juan Luis; Beltrán, Ana M.; Villalobo Polo, Eduardo; Begines Ruiz, Belén; Torres Hernández, Yadir; Alcudia Cruz, Ana; Química Orgánica y Farmacéutica; Ingeniería y Ciencia de los Materiales y del Transporte; Citología e Histología Normal y Patológica; Química Orgánica; Química Analítica; Microbiología; Ministerio de Ciencia, Innovación y Universidades (MICIU). España; Agencia Estatal de Investigación. EspañaThe treatment of osteochondral defects remains one of the most significant challenges in regenerative medicine due to the limited self-repair capacity of articular cartilage. This study proposes a multidisciplinary approach through the design and fabrication of an innovative biphasic scaffold (BS) that integrates a porous commercially pure titanium (c.p. Ti) substrate with a sustainable chitosan-bacterial cellulose (CS-BC) biocomposite. The metallic phase, produced via the space-holder technique with 60 vol% porosity, was engineered to replace damaged subchondral bone, while the biopolymeric phase was optimized to replicate the viscoelastic and biological performance of cartilage. To prevent post-operative infections that may lead to implant rejection, the scaffolds were functionalized with silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) through a dual incorporation approach involving both bulk loading and surface adsorption. Experimental results identified composite 11 (3% w/v CS, 10% w/w BC) as the most promising candidate, achieving a 99% crosslinking degree and a swelling capacity of approximately 400%. Mechanical characterization revealed that the inclusion of 10% w/w bacterial cellulose enhanced the elastic strain capacity to 9.7%, significantly improving the material's resilience compared to pure chitosan counterparts. Microbiological assays demonstrated sustained antibacterial efficacy against E. coli for up to 21 days and against S. aureus for at least 5 days. Furthermore, SEM analysis confirmed the successful infiltration of the biocomposite into the titanium pores, resulting in a unified hybrid platform that mimics the biomechanical and biofunctional requirements of native joint tissue. This synergistic system offers a promising solution for the long-term functional regeneration of complex osteochondral lesions.
Artículo Effect of Nb 5+ Doping on Structural, Electronic, and Antibacterial Properties of Hydroxyapatite(American Chemical Society, 2026-05-25) Araujo, Rafael; Menezes de Oliveira, André Luiz; Kennedy, Brendan James; Silva Maia, Ary; Castellano, Lúcio; Correia Sampaio, Fábio; Medina-Carrasco, Santiago; Orta Cuevas, María del Mar; Gardênnia Fonseca, Maria; Química AnalíticaHerein, we address the limited understanding of how Nb5+ doping governs the defect chemistry and structural characteristics of hydroxyapatite (Hap) and demonstrate its use to tailor their functionalities. Niobium-doped Haps (HapNbx) were synthesized using the coprecipitation method, with Nb doping concentrations of x = 1, 3, 5, 7, and 10 mol %. The effect of dopant concentration on the structural and electronic properties of the samples was systematically investigated and correlated with their functionalities. Structural characterization and Rietveld refinements revealed that single-phase apatite-structured materials were obtained up to 7 mol % Nb, whereas phase segregation occurred at 10 mol %. Incorporation of Nb5+ into the Hap lattice was revealed by Raman, UV−vis, and XPS spectroscopic analyses and further confirmed by XANES spectroscopy at the P K edge and Nb L-edge. XPS analysis indicated the presence of this cationic species on the surface, and XANES probed the preferential coordination sites for Nb5+ cations. The antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli was evaluated, and the sample containing 5 mol % Nb demonstrated a promising inhibitory effect. Our findings reveal that Nb5+ preferentially occupies the 7-coordinate Ca(II) sites in the Hap lattice, thereby modifying the structural and electronic properties of HapNbx compounds, affecting their biocidal function.
Artículo Occurrence and distribution of emerging contaminants in surface water and biota: An integrated analytical-statistical assessment(Elsevier, 2026-07) Díaz Montaña, Enrique Jacobo; Domínguez-Gil, Sofía; Hinojosa Hidalgo, María Gracia; Aparicio Ruiz, Ramón; Morales Millán, María Teresa; Química Analítica; Nutrición y Bromatología, Toxicología y Medicina Legal; AGR104: Proyecto Sexia; AGR258: Alimentos Funcional es e Investigación ToxicológicaPharmaceuticals and pesticides are key contaminants of emerging concern (CECs) that threaten aquatic ecosystems due to their high mobility and persistence. Accurate environmental monitoring requires robust analytical strategies supported by rigorous statistical validation. This study presents a novel analytical-statistical framework for CEC quantification, evaluating different linear model fitting, matrix effects, and calibration methodologies: post-sample treatment standard addition (ESAC) and ESAC with internal standards (ISC). Our findings demonstrate that weighted least squares (WLS) regression provided the most accurate model fitting. The ISC methodology, combined with WLS, outperformed other approaches in linearity and validation parameters, effectively minimizing matrix interference. This validated framework was subsequently applied to surface water and biota samples. Surface water analysis revealed significant anthropogenic pressure linked to tourism and maritime activities. In certain areas the level of pharmaceuticals was lower (8.4 μg kg⁻¹ ), in contrast to pesticides (6.2 μg kg⁻¹ ). Among biota, crabs exhibited the highest bioaccumulation (334 μg kg⁻¹ ), followed by adult mussels (247 μg kg⁻¹ ); notably, no direct correlation with trophic levels was observed. These results confirm that the proposed ISC-WLS approach provides a reliable and high-precision tool for the environmental assessment of CECs in complex matrices.
Artículo Inter-laboratory validation of newly formulated reference materials for olive oil sensory analysis(CSIC, 2025) Bendini, Alessandra; Barbieri, S.; Aparicio Ruiz, Ramón; Koidis, A.; Bubola, K.B.; Bucar-Miklavcic, M.; Lacoste, F.; Tibet, U.; Winkelmann, O.; Garcia-González, D.L.; Toschi, T.G.; Química AnalíticaAmong the available reference materials (RMs) for virgin olive oil (VOO) sensory analysis, it could be very useful to include: i) a suitable training of sensory assessors and ii) the determination of the validity of the sensory evaluation. In this study, an inter-laboratory validation of RMs for the winey-vinegary and rancid defects in VOOs, developed in the framework of the OLEUM project is carried out. RMs were firstly olfactory certified by six panels, subsequently assessed during the pre-trial phase and finally, re-evaluated in twelve sensory laboratories. The RMs were defined as appropriate by the majority of panellists interviewed and the participant panels reached a satisfactory agreement on the intensity of the main perceived defect. The results confirmed that the adoption of the proposed RMs could enhance the tasters’ skills in recognizing and quantifying sensory attributes in VOOs by comparing their judgment to the “assigned values” of RMs.
Artículo Opening borders. Part One: The White Paper on the Pharmacy Degree: destination or point of departure. Quo vadis, Pharmacy?(Real Academia Nacionald e Farmcia, 2025) García Asuero, Agustín; Química AnalíticaThe Spanish Pharmacy Faculties, both public and private, worked together, under the auspices of the National Agency for Quality Assessment and Accreditation (ANECA), to prepare a White Paper on the Pharmacy Degree, within the framework of the European Higher Education Area (EHEA). This study reviews the terms of the project, as set by existing European directives, and indicates the references adopted as guides and models. These include the following: the Advisory Committee on Pharmaceutical Training of the European Union; the Consultative Group of Vancouver (WHO); the Vienna Statement of Good Pharmacy Education Practice (FIP); the Statements of General Principles of the Pharmaceutical Profession drawn up by the General Council of the Official Colleges of Pharmacy in Spain, as well as the Statements of La Laguna and Malta of the European Association of Faculties of Pharmacy (EAFP) and of the Pharmaceutical Group of the European Union (PGEU). The White Paper pays special attention to the interfaces with computing, molecular biology, and hospital pharmacy so that they are incorporated into the curricula as new material and, if necessary, as descriptors. Indeed, regulation CIN/2137/2008 is a projection and reflection of the proposal set out in the White Paper and is a substantial advance from the perspective of consolidated or newly acquired professional competences for pharmacy, in accordance with the new roles oriented towards the patient, which are being assigned to the profession. Finally, using historical connotations, the past role and the future direction of the pharmacy profession are considered, emphasizing the value of the pharmaceutical sciences, as well as the richness and interdisciplinary character of both the studies and profession of pharmacy.
Artículo From alkalis of commerce to iodometric methods: an annotation on the development of titrimetric analysis(Real Academia Nacional de Farmacia, 2025-10-30) Sáez Plaza, Purificación; Martín Bueno, Julia; García Asuero, Agustín; Química AnalíticaThis paper provides an overview of some of the early history of titrimetric analysis, focusing on the contribution of pharmacists to this field.
Artículo Bile acid metabolism and signaling in xenobiotic-induced liver injury. Attenuating effect of a selenium-enriched diet(Elsevier, 2026-05) Baig, Ayesha; Aranda Merino, Noemí; Ramos Payán, María Dolores; Abril, Nieves; García Barrera, Tamara; Fernández Torres, Rut; Bello López, Miguel Ángel; Química Analítica; Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación (MICIN). España; Agencia Estatal de Investigación. EspañaEnvironmental exposure to complex chemical mixtures threatens metabolic health by disrupting the liver–gut microbiota axis. This study assesses a multi-pollutant cocktail (PC) comprising As, Cd, Hg, diclofenac and flumequine, on bile acid (BA) homeostasis in mice and evaluates the protective potential of dietary selenium. PC exposure induced mortality and body-weight loss despite sublethal individual doses, suggesting synergistic toxicity. Selenium supplementation, however, attenuated weight loss and partially reduced mortality. Hepatic profiling showed that antibiotic-induced microbiota depletion sharply reduced taurocholic acid, whereas PC exposure increased total hepatic BAs. However, selenium normalized total BAs and partially restored secondary species. Cholic acid remained stable, while PC exposure nearly depleted glycocholic and deoxycholic acids and increased taurodeoxycholic acid, a shift associated with colorectal and lung pathologies. These findings suggest xenobiotic-mediated disruption of BA conjugation and dysregulation of nuclear receptors, potentially predisposing to hepatic steatosis. Collectively, these findings support selenium as a nutritional strategy to mitigate antibiotic-induced dysbiosis and PC-induced hepatotoxicity, preserving metabolic integrity under chemical stress.
Artículo Carvacrol incorporated on raw and acid-activated vermiculites and their antibacterial evaluation(Elsevier, 2026-05-16) Souza, José de; Gomes Oliveira, Lucilane; Oliveira, Luis Humberto de; Anteveli Osajima, Josy; Cavalcanti Silva-Filho, Edson; Medina-Carrasco, Santiago; Orta Cuevas, María del Mar; Fonseca, María Gardênnia; Química Analítica; Universidad de SevillaThe incorporation of bioactive species in clay minerals has been applied to produce materials with antimicrobial action. In this study, a clay mineral was acid activated with 1 and 2 mol L 1 nitric acid resulting in porous matrixes. Pristine and acid activated samples reacted with carvacrol, a natural phenolic monoterpene with antimicrobial properties, and the antimicrobial activity was evaluated against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli using the agar diffusion test. Oil release of the samples was also monitored until 72 h PBS buffer. Solids were characterized by X-ray diffractometry, infrared absorption spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectronic spectroscopy, thermogravimetry, Zeta potential, N2 adsorption/desorption measurements, CHN elemental analysis and scanning electron microscopy. XRD patterns and the Zeta potential results suggested the presence of the oil on the surface of the matrixes and CHN indicated a higher amount of oil was obtained for activated clay minerals (0.51 and 0.67 mmol of carvacrol per gram of solid activated at 1 and 2 mol L 1 nitric acid, respectively). The higher inhibition diameter values for were 13, 27 and 32 mm against S. aureus by pristine and acid activated samples prepared with higher amount of carvacrol. All oil loaded samples released in PBS buffer solution at pH 7.4 until 72 h and higher values were 5.2 and 8.1% for samples prepared at 1 and 2 mol L 1 nitric acid, respectively. After 72 h, a slow release of the essential oil was observed. Results indicated good incorporation of the carvacrol in the surface of the acid activated clay samples and improvement of the intibacterial activity of the solids resulted of the carvacrol.
Artículo Bio-engineered plant-based emulgels for chia oil: Interfacial–rheological insights(Elsevier, 2026-03-01) Fernández-Andújar, J.; Santos García, Jenifer; Ramos Payán, María Dolores; Trujillo-Cayado, Luis Alfonso; Química Analítica; Ingeniería Química; Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación (MICIN). España; Junta de Andalucía; European Union (UE)The present study involved the engineering of chia-oil emulsions and emulsions using phycocyanin and sorghum flour as plant emulsifiers, and psyllium as a structuring agent. A central composite design was used to evaluate the protein ratio, the ultrasonication amplitude, and the total emulsifier concentration. The response-surface analysis identified an optimum at approximately 30S/70P and 45 % amplitude, which in turn guided the development of the emulgel. The incorporation of psyllium resulted in the transformation of emulsions into shear-thinning emulgels. In emulsions, the consistency index exhibited an increase from 5.03 to 25.32 mPa⋅sⁿ as the flow index decreased from 0.31 to 0.01. A comparable trend was observed in dispersions. The results obtained from the small-amplitude oscillations confirmed the hypothesis that G′>G″ across all frequencies, and weak-gel formation was observed even at 0.5 wt. % psyllium. There was a significant improvement in physical stability, as evidenced by a substantial decrease in the Turbiscan Stability Index. FESEM revealed a fiber-like matrix embedding droplets at 1 % psyllium, consistent with enhanced viscoelasticity and reduced mobility. The results indicate that secondary ultrasonic homogenization and the appropriate combination of emulsifiers and stabilizers are crucial to obtain emulsions and emulgels with optimal physicochemical properties. This suggests that these combinations may be beneficial for the development of more sustainable food products in the future.
Artículo Relationship between lattice strain, defect redistribution, and photocatalytic response in Cr³+/Al³+ co-doped ZnO micro–nanostructured systems(Elsevier, 2026-06-15) Sales, Débora A.; Jerônimo, Aimée Giovanna; Romaguera-Barcelay, Y.; Orta Cuevas, María del Mar; Almeida, Luciano C.; Viana, Bartolomeu Cruz; Peña-García, Ramón R.; Química Analítica; FQM410: Análisis Estructural y Composicional AplicadoThe controlled modification of semiconductor oxides via aliovalent co-doping has emerged as a powerful strategy for tailoring structural and electronic behavior in functional nanomaterials. This study correlates the structural strain and defect redistribution induced by aliovalent Cr–Al co-doping in ZnO with the resulting photocatalytic kinetics, focusing on the Zn1-x-yCrxAlyO compositions with (x, y) values of (0.00, 0.00), (0.03, 0.01), and (0.03, 0.03). X-ray diffraction analysis, along with Rietveld refinement, confirmed that the wurtzite structure was preserved. The results showed a systematic reduction in crystallite size, decreasing from 103.0 nm in the undoped sample to 71.0 nm and 56.2 nm in the co-doped materials. Additionally, there was an increase in microstrain, rising from 0.122% to as high as 0.316%. Raman spectroscopy revealed progressive shifts in phonon frequencies, indicating lattice distortion. Ultraviolet-visible diffuse reflectance spectroscopy showed a narrowing of the band gap from 3.157(1) eV to 3.130(1) eV. Additionally, Photoluminescence deconvolution revealed a redistribution of optically active defects, with the VZn-related emission contribution (integrated area fraction) increasing from 41% (undoped ZnO) to 79% (Zn0.96Cr0.03Al0.01O). The Zn0.96Cr0.03Al0.01O sample exhibited mesoporosity with a surface area of 9.4 m2 g−1 and achieved 89% discoloration of Reactive Black 5 under ultraviolet irradiation in 120 min, outperforming the higher Al-loaded material (85%). Kinetic analysis followed a pseudo-first-order model, with rate constants of 0.0163 min−1 and 0.0117 min−1, respectively. Reactive species quenching identified valence-band holes and hydroxyl radicals as the dominant oxidative agents. Reusability tests demonstrated a gradual decrease in discoloration efficiency from 89% to 71% and 48% after three consecutive cycles, while X-ray diffraction confirmed the structural stability of the wurtzite lattice throughout the recycling process. These results clarify how aliovalent co-doping governs the interplay between lattice distortion, defect chemistry, and charge carrier behavior in ZnO, providing a well-defined structure–property correlation that is essential for rational design of high-performance semiconductor oxide materials.
Artículo Influence of agricultural residues on the formation of TiO₂ phases: Real-time in situ X-ray diffraction monitoring in a reaction chamber(Elsevier, 2026-05-01) Feitosa, Rodrigo P.; Ahmed, Abdullah A. A.; Peña García, Ramón; Fonseca, Maria Gardênnia; da Silva Filho, Edson C.; Medina Carrasco, Santiago; Orta Cuevas, María del Mar; Osajima, Josy A.; Química Analítica; Universidad de Sevilla; FQM410: Análisis Estructural y Composicional AplicadoThis study investigates the influence of agricultural residues on the structural evolution of titanium dioxide (TiO₂) synthesized through a green route using rice husk (C1), sugarcane bagasse (C2), and coconut husk (C3) ashes. Real-time in situ X-ray diffraction (XRD) was employed to monitor phase transitions during controlled heating up to 900 °C, enabling quantitative tracking of anatase–rutile transformation and crystallite growth by Rietveld refinement. At 800 °C, pure TiO₂ was predominantly rutile (≈94.3%) with only ≈5.7% anatase, whereas C1–TiO₂ and C2–TiO₂ retained ∼50% anatase (49.7% and 51.0%, respectively), and C3–TiO₂ remained anatase-rich (70.1%) due to concurrent formation of priderite (27.8%) and ramsdellite (1.6%). The incorporation of siliceous ashes (C1 and C2) delayed rutile nucleation and reduced crystallite coarsening, indicating that SiO₂ and mineral components hinder atomic diffusion and stabilize anatase at higher temperatures. In contrast, coconut ash (C3) promoted the formation of secondary titanate phases (priderite and ramsdellite), leading to distinct multiphase kinetics. These results demonstrate that the chemical nature of agro-industrial ashes can be used to modulate TiO₂ microstructure and phase stability. The findings provide a quantitative framework for engineering sustainable TiO₂ materials, where the choice of agricultural residue enables control over anatase retention or rutile formation, with direct implications for photocatalytic and surface-active applications.
Artículo Design and application of a TiO2/clay/Ag hybrid nanocomposite for environmental remediation of cytotoxic pharmaceuticals(Springer Nature, 2026-02-12) Atawa, Oumaima; García-Criado, Noelia; Martín Bueno, Julia; Santos Morcillo, Juan Luis; Aparicio Gómez, Irene; Alonso Álvarez, Esteban; Hamdi, Noureddine; Química Analítica; Ministerio de Ciencia, Innovación y Universidades (MICIU). España; Universidad de SevillaThe contamination of water by cytostatic drugs poses a significant ecological risk. This study presents a novel TiO2/clay/Ag catalyst, synthesized through a simplified sol–gel method, and applied for the efficient removal of etoposide (ETP) from aqueous environments. A thorough characterization of the catalyst’s structural and morphological properties was carried out using various analytical techniques (XRD, FTIR, SEM, EDX, XPS). Several parameters, such as contact time, photocatalyst dosage, pH, and drug concentration, were studied. Under visible light irradiation, complete degradation (100%) of ETP molecules was achieved within 30 min. The degradation process followed pseudo-first-order kinetics. The catalyst’s remarkable reusability is another key strength, as it showed excellent performance over five consecutive cycles, confirming its long-term applicability. In addition to its environmental sustainability and economic feasibility, this material demonstrated exceptional performance when applied to real environmental samples (surface water, incoming and outgoing wastewater). These findings suggest the catalyst’s potential as a powerful, eco-friendly, and scalable approach to reducing pharmaceutical contamination in water.
Artículo Carbamazepine Uptake and Metabolization by Lavandula Dentata, Juncus Sp., and Salicornia Europaea(Elsevier, 2025-07-31) Barreales Suárez, Sofía; Bello López, Miguel Ángel; Fernández Torres, Rut; Química AnalíticaIntroduction: Software has been used to predict metabolic pathways for possible ‘expected’ and ‘unexpected’ metabolites based on their m/z and fragmentation patterns from lowand high-fragmentation mass spectra of plants subjected to carbamazepine uptake has been used. Methods: Three plants with high prevalence in the natural protected area of Doñana National Park (Spain) were irrigated with three aqueous carbamazepine solutions (10 ng‧mL-1, 700 ng‧mL,-1 and 10 μg‧mL-1). Periodically, stems, leaves, and roots were sampled and analyzed. Total carbamazepine uptake throughout the assay was evaluated and discussed, demonstrating a clear dependence on plant species/part, irrigation solution concentration, and assay duration. Additionally, chromatographic analysis was performed using a quadrupole time-of-flight (Q-TOF) mass spectrometer, recording simultaneous low and high-fragmentation mass spectra for further computational processing with MetabolynxTM software. Results: Confirmation was achieved by analyzing the high-energy spectra obtained at the characteristic retention times and fragmentation pattern of each compound. Discussion: Several potential carbamazepine metabolites corresponding to various metabolic pathways were identified, and, where possible, their relative abundances was discussed. Conclusion: The use of computational tools like MetabolynxTM has proven to be useful for studies involving the identification of metabolites and/or the confirmation of metabolic pathways in the studied plants.
Artículo Can the use of aquatic non-native species across Europe mitigate their environmental impact?(Elsevier, 2025-07) Dobrzycka-Krahel, Aldona; Román Hidalgo, Cristina; Química AnalíticaAccording to conservation science, non-native species in aquatic environments are species that are introduced by humans outside of their natural habitats. They alter ecosystem and biodiversity. In particular, invasive non-native species constitute a major risk that can threaten not only biodiversity and ecosystem, but also the economy and human health. The consequences of this invasive species presence require positive management actions including utilization of these species. The usual practice adopted against the unwanted presence of invasive non-native aquatic species in the environment is their eradication. However, non-native aquatic species, often dangerous to other species or to the environment, may be beneficial to humans. Controlling non-native aquatic species populations by reducing their numbers via utilization is an economically viable way by turning the species into resources rather than simply trying to eradicate them. The harnessing of non-native aquatic species (especially invasive non-native aquatic species) is still limited and needs to be extensively researched. Therefore, the aim of this work is to discuss the favorable and responsible use of non-native aquatic species for human consumption and industry as an alternative to their elimination. In this respect, different approaches to the use of these species are described and reviewed, and their potential for future applications in the context of mitigation of environmental impact is additionally analyzed.
Artículo Phenols and saliva effect on virgin olive oil aroma release: A chemical and sensory approach(Elsevier, 2024-03-30) Díaz Montaña, Enrique Jacobo; Brignot, Hélène; Aparicio Ruiz, Ramón; Thomas-Danguin, Thierry; Morales Millán, María Teresa; Química Analítica; Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación (MICIN). España; Junta de AndalucíaThe sensory perception of virgin olive oil is complex and produced mainly by phenols and volatiles. These compounds are affected by the interaction with other components of the oil matrix and by biological factors. The aim of the work was to study the saliva effect and/or the presence of phenols on the release of 12 volatiles, using different olive oil matrices and volatile concentrations, and applying Solid Phase Microextration-Gas Chromatography-Flame Ionization Detection, Proton Transfer Reaction-Mass Spectrometry and sensory analysis. The volatile concentrations in the headspace showed significant differences (p < 0.05) between the different matrices, being easily detected the effect exerted by phenols and biological components from 3.8 mg/Kg. The results showed that the presence of unsaturation in the volatile molecules affect their release, being lower the concentration of saturated volatiles released in presence of phenols. All the compounds were in higher concentration in the headspace of the olive oil-phenol-saliva matrix.
Artículo Aula invertida en el aprendizaje activo de la Química Analítica(Real e Ilustre Colegio Oficial de Farmacéuticos, 2024-06) Díaz Montaña, Enrique Jacobo; Lobo Prieto, Ana; Tena Pajuelo, Noelia; Baca Bocanegra, Berta; Nogales Bueno, Julio; Jara Palacios, Mª José; Aparicio Ruiz, Ramón; Orta Cuevas, María del Mar; Hernanz Vila, María Dolores; Morales Millán, María Teresa; Química Analítica; AGR104: Proyecto Sexia; FQM347: Análisis Aplicado; FQM410: Análisis Estructural y Composicional AplicadoLa metodología de la clase invertida ha ganado relevancia en la última década ya que permite poner el foco de atención del aprendizaje en el alumno, pasando a ser parte activa de su formación. La clase invertida ha sido utilizada en áreas de difícil aprendizaje, haciendo que los alumnos se sientan más motivados y posicionándose como una metodología esencial para un entorno educativo de calidad. El objetivo de este trabajo fue implementar la clase invertida en la asignatura Química Analítica Aplicada del Grado en Farmacia para mejorar la adquisición-retención de conocimientos, las habilidades para resolver problemas analíticos y la capacidad metacognitiva de los estudiantes. Este estudio se llevó a cabo en un primer curso (2021/2022), denominado grupo control, en el que se impartió la asignatura de forma tradicional y un segundo curso (2022/23), o grupo experimental, que se dividió en pequeños subgrupos de 3-4 estudiantes para que trabajasen de forma colaborativa y cooperativa. Al grupo experimental se le facilitó información y bibliografía adecuadas para que pudieran prepararse los temas y casos correspondientes y exponerlos, posteriormente, a sus compañeros. La adquisición-retención de conocimientos y la habilidad para resolver problemas analíticos se evaluó en base a los resultados académicos obtenidos por el alumnado. Por otro lado, al final del curso, a los alumnos del grupo experimental se les realizó una encuesta subjetiva y anónima que permitiese valorar la motivación por la asignatura, el grado de satisfacción con la actividad y la capacidad metacognitiva. Los resultados mostraron una disminución del absentismo de un 12,7 %. Asimismo, los estudiantes del grupo experimental mostraron un grado de interés y satisfacción por la actividad de un 90 % y entre un 90,9-93,2 % mostró una alta metacognición al ser capaces de valorar una forma de aprender frente a otra y saber identificar la mejor metodología para su aprendizaje.
Artículo Micro-matrix solid-phase dispersion method for the multiresidue determination of tetracycline antibiotics and their transformation products in radish(Elsevier, 2026-05) García-Criado, Noelia; Martín Bueno, Julia; Santos Morcillo, Juan Luis; Aparicio Gómez, Irene; Alonso Álvarez, Esteban; Química Analítica; Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación (MICIN). España; Ministerio de Ciencia, Innovación y Universidades (MICIU). España; FQM344: Análisis Químico Industrial y MedioambientalParent tetracyclines and their transformation products can be present in vegetables growth in soils amended with manure, treated sewage sludge, or irrigated with reclaimed urban wastewater. The presence of some tetracycline antibiotics and transformation products is already regulated in foodstuffs of animal origin but not yet in vegetables. In this paper, an analytical method is proposed for the determination of seven parent tetracycline antibiotics and six transformation products. Selected transformation products correspond to epimers and dehydration products, which have been reported to be the most toxic ones. The proposed method is based on miniaturized matrix solid-phase dispersion (μ-MSPD) method combined with online solid-phase extraction–liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (online SPE–LC–MS/MS) determination. The method has been validated in radish edible parts (leaves and bulb), to be used for food monitoring, and in roots, to be used in pollutant plant uptake and translocation studies. Proposed method provides MQLs lower than 5ngg⁻¹ dw, accuracy in the range 85–100%, and RSD% lower than 5.5%, for most of the compounds and matrices. Application of the method to radish samples revealed the presence of transformation products of tetracycline antibiotics even in samples where their respective parent compound was not detected. Greenness assessment, using ComplexGAPI and AGREEprep Green Analytical Chemistry metrics, revealed the highest greenness degree of the proposed method in comparison to other methods reported in literature for determination of tetracycline antibiotics in vegetables.
Artículo Bio-engineered plant-based emulgels for chia oil: Interfacial–rheological insights(Elsevier, 2026-06) Fernández-Andújar, J.; Santos García, Jenifer; Ramos Payán, María Dolores; Trujillo-Cayado, Luis Alfonso; Química Analítica; Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación (MICIN). España; Junta de Andalucía; European Commission (EC). Fondo Europeo de Desarrollo Regional (FEDER); FQM291: Análisis Químico; TEP943: Reología Aplicada. Tecnología de ColoidesThe present study involved the engineering of chia-oil emulsions and emulsions using phycocyanin and sorghum flour as plant emulsifiers, and psyllium as a structuring agent. A central composite design was used to evaluate the protein ratio, the ultrasonication amplitude, and the total emulsifier concentration. The response-surface analysis identified an optimum at approximately 30S/70P and 45 % amplitude, which in turn guided the development of the emulgel. The incorporation of psyllium resulted in the transformation of emulsions into shear-thinning emulgels. In emulsions, the consistency index exhibited an increase from 5.03 to 25.32 mPa·sⁿ as the flow index decreased from 0.31 to 0.01. A comparable trend was observed in dispersions. The results obtained from the small-amplitude oscillations confirmed the hypothesis that G′>G″ across all frequencies, and weak-gel formation was observed even at 0.5 wt. % psyllium. There was a significant improvement in physical stability, as evidenced by a substantial decrease in the Turbiscan Stability Index. FESEM revealed a fiber-like matrix embedding droplets at 1 % psyllium, consistent with enhanced viscoelasticity and reduced mobility. The results indicate that secondary ultrasonic homogenization and the appropriate combination of emulsifiers and stabilizers are crucial to obtain emulsions and emulgels with optimal physicochemical properties. This suggests that these combinations may be beneficial for the development of more sustainable food products in the future.
Artículo White Grape Cell Walls as Fining Agents in Red Wine: Mechanistic Insights from ATR-FTIR Spectroscopy(MDPI, 2026-03-17) Gómez Pérez, Julia; Baca Bocanegra, Berta; Hernández Hierro, José Miguel; Beć, Krzysztof B.; Huck, Christian Wolfgang; Nogales Bueno, Julio; Nutrición y Bromatología, Toxicología y Medicina Legal; Química Analítica; Junta de Andalucía; Programa Iberoamericano de Ciencia y Tecnología para el Desarrollo, CYTEDThe fining of red wines is a crucial process for enhancing their sensory quality, involving the elimination of compounds that compromise stability or generate undesirable attributes. Against the backdrop of growing interest in sustainable and allergen-free alternatives, this study examines the potential of using cell wall material from white grape pomace (Zalema, Pedro Ximénez and Moscatel varieties) as fining agents in red wine. Cell wall samples were isolated and characterised using attenuated total reflectance Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR). PCA applied to the cell wall spectra revealed homogeneous matrices dominated by structural polysaccharides, including cellulose, hemicellulose, lignin, pectins and arabinogalactans. Following the fining treatments, significant differences were observed in the generated sediments compared to the control, primarily due to signals attributable to phenols, proteins, and carbohydrates. This demonstrates the active involvement of these compounds in the formation of precipitates. The results confirm that the composition of the cell wall favours interaction with phenols and proteins in wine, thereby contributing to their elimination. Overall, this work demonstrates the potential of cell wall material from white grape pomace as plant-based oenological fining agents, providing new insights into the molecular mechanisms of action.
