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Phytochemical analysis of eight Genista L. taxa (Fabaceae) from natural populations in Bosnia and Herzegovina Original Scientific Article

Pustahija, F., Bašić, N., Starčević, M., Subašić, M., Boškailo, A., Parić, A., Hukić, E.

DOI: 10.35666/2232-7266.2023.61.01

UDK: 547[582.916.26:543.063] (497.6)

Abstract: Phytochemical analysis of aerial parts of eight autochthonous Genista L. taxa (brooms; Fabaceae; G. germanica, G. januensis, G. pilosa, G. radiata, G. sagittalis, G. sericea, G. sylvestris ssp. dalmatica and G. tinctoria) from natural populations in Bosnia and Herzegovina was performed in this study. Using fast phytochemical methods, for the first time, emodin was identified in the genus; coumarins, fatty acids, saponins, steroids, tannins and terpenoids in some taxa, but also the presence of phenolic compounds or the absence of anthocyanins in all studied taxa. The analysis of total phenol (TPC), flavonoid (TFC), phenolic acids (TPA) and alkaloid (TA) contents and antioxidant activity (DPPH), determined by spectrophotometry method, indicated the existence of differences between the studied taxa (p<0.01). The taxa differed significantly from each other in TPA and TA, and the least in terms of antioxidant activity. There is a positive correlation between TPA, TPC and TFC in one hand, and TA and antioxidative activity in other (p<0.01). The Euclidean dendrogram indicates two main clusters: the first cluster includes G. januensis and G. pilosa, and the second is derived from the remaining six taxa. Obtained PCA clusters were more diffused than those generated by Euclidean distance dendrogram but in a good agreement with them. The obtained data indicate the need for further phytochemical and pharmacological research of the genus Genista, as a very interesting source of natural active compounds, as well as population research with special emphasis on the influence of microclimate on SMs content.

Bulletin of the Chemists and Technologists of Bosnia and Herzegovina 61, 1-9.

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GHG emissions in the current and future MSW management system in Zvornik, Bosnia and Herzegovina  Original Scientific Article

Bjelić, D., Malinović, B., Nešković Markić, D., Gegić, B.

DOI: 10.35666/2232-7266.2023.61.02

Abstract: Each and every step in the process of municipal solid waste (MSW) management generates the greenhouse gases (GHG). Therefore, it is imperative to focus on MSW from the source to the final waste disposal in order to decrease the negative impact on the environment. This study aims to calculate the GHG emissions at the present moment (Status Quo) for waste management as well as on the improved MSW management that should be implemented in this local community by 2027 (Scenario 2027). To visualize waste streams in these two scenarios, the STAN 2.5 software was used, and for the calculation of GHG emissions in the City of Zvornik, the IWM-2 software was used. The MSW management Status Quo is basically characterized by the collection communal of waste and its deposition on the landfill without a degasification system and landfill gas treatment. The guidelines and recommendations for MSW management improvement, Scenario 2027 propose the establishment of separate collections of secondary raw materials and biodegradable waste, and improved collection and treatment of landfill gas at the landfill site. The implementation of these measures would result in a reduction of approximately 40% in GHG emissions compared to the Status Quo. The most significant impact would be realized in the environment due to the collection and treatment of landfill.

Bulletin of the Chemists and Technologists of Bosnia and Herzegovina 61, 11-19.

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Cyclosporine A concentrations in blood measured with the immunoassays on Roche e601® and ADVIA Centaur XP® analysers-what is the extent of the agreement? Original Scientific Article

Tijanić, A., Beletić, A., Stanković, S.

DOI: 10.35666/2232-7266.2023.61.03

UDK: 577.1[57.087.3:612.11]

Abstract: Monitoring of cyclosporine A (Cs A) concentrations is inevitable for efficient and safe immunosuppression. Currently, immunoassays are the most often used method. The study compared the Cs A concentrations in EDTA-blood samples of 50 patients, measured on Roche e601® and ADVIA Centaur XP® analyzers. The Cs A concentrations on e601® were between 30.00 and 573.00 ng/mL. On Centaur XP® they were in the range 30.2-395.2 ng/mL. For all data the correlation coefficient (95% confidence interval (CI)) was 0.98 (0.97-0.99), while in the groups with concentrations below and above 100 ng/mL it was 0.90 (0.74-0.93) and 0.98 (0.94-0.99), respectively. The slope (95% CI) in the Passing-Bablok analysis on all results was 0.73 (0.67-0.83), and the intercept (95% CI) was 12.53 (6.66-17.78). In the group with results below 100 ng/mL, the slope was 0.92 (0.77-1.12) and the intercept 3.05 (from -8.45 to 12.09). For the Cs A concentrations above 100 ng/mL the slope was 0.71 (0.64-0.84) and the intercept 9.31 (from -8.86 to 24.27). The proportional and systematic errors were present in a wide range of Cs A concentrations measured on the evaluated analyzers. The concordance was satisfactory for concentrations below 100 ng/mL. 

Bulletin of the Chemists and Technologists of Bosnia and Herzegovina 61, 21-24.

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Leachate of landfill Smiljevići (Sarajevo, BiH) and their environmental statusOriginal Scientific Article

Mahmutović, O., Prazina, N.

DOI: 10.35666/2232-7266.2023.61.04

UDK: 543.31[628.3:504](497.6 Smiljevići)

Abstract: Leachates are produced as a filtrate from waste landfills as a result of highly polluted waters. Organic substances that are mostly present are: phenolic compounds, halogen organic substances, oils and fats. The presence of nitrogen substances is significant, followed by phosphoric substances, sulfates, chlorides, and heavy metals. Sanitary landfill "Smiljevići", created 60 years ago, is placed on the hill area of Novi Grad municipality, Sarajevo. In that time area around landfill was very sparsely populated. Following the legislative, the leachate from the Smiljevići landfill does not have a good environmental status. On the other hand, according to global - typical values, contaminant concentrations are much closer to low than average values. The content of contaminants with long retention in nature and tendency to bioaccumulation is within legal limits. Most parameters that exceed the permitted values include usually biodegradable compounds that the stream of the river Bosnia can absorb better than the small ecosystem of the Lepenički creek. The problem is further aggravated bz the fact that the area surrounding the creek is now relatively densely populated, the stream has a small water capacity, especially in the summer, and the contaminants are mostly volatile. Finally, this problem also can be attributed to irresponsible activity of urban planning.

Bulletin of the Chemists and Technologists of Bosnia and Herzegovina 60, 25-31.

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Preliminary archaeometry investigation of artifacts from the Medieval Bosnian town of Dubrovnik (Ilijaš, BiH) Original Scientific Article

Olovčić, A., Ramić, E., Ostojić, J., Bujak, E.

DOI: 10.35666/2232-7266.2024.63.01

UDK: 543:903.2(497.6 Ilijaš)

Abstract: The aim of this paper was to analyse archaeological artifacts found in the medieval town of Dubrovnik, near Sarajevo, using FAAS and SEM-EDS techniques. A total of 11 samples of different types were chosen: ceramic sherds, an iron nail, slag, and a piece of brocade thread. The results of the ceramic samples showed high levels of iron and manganese, most probably due to the geological bedding of the location. Trace amounts of chromium, copper, nickel, lead, and zinc further support this assumption, which means that the clay used to make ceramic was supplied in the vicinity of Dubrovnik. A painted sample of green ceramic had high levels of lead, suggesting that this metal was deliberately added to strengthen the properties of the vessel. SEM-EDS measurements of the slag showed the presence of As, Hg and Sn, and one possible explanation is that they were used in gold or silver refining processes, which according to historical reports were performed in Dubrovnik. A piece of golden thread has proven useful in determining the time frame of its origin. EDS measurement showed that the type of the manufacturing process used in the production of this golden thread did not exist before the 14th century.

Bulletin of the Chemists and Technologists of Bosnia and Herzegovina 63, 01-10

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Inventory of Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers (PBDEs) in the Transport Sector in Bosnia and Herzegovina  Original Scientific Article

Džajić-Valjevac, M., Markotić, E., Maretić Tiro, M., Merzić, A.

DOI: 10.35666/2232-7266.2024.63.02

Abstract: Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) are flame retardants whose use is restricted to industrial production in line with the Stockholm Convention due to their persistence and toxicity. Some congeners were restricted in 2009, while the decaBDE restriction entered into force in 2017. Selected plastic products containing PBDEs are still widely used and may potentially impact human health and the environment. This paper investigates the presence of the PBDEs in transport vehicles and related wastes in BiH during 2020. The applied estimation method was proposed by the Secretariat of the Stockholm Convention, including a calculation based on the statistical data at the national level and literature data on PBDE concentration in the different vehicle types. It has been estimated that the most PBDEs come from the old transport vehicles that are still in use (4,582.72 kg), while the amount of PBDEs in imported vehicles and end-of-life vehicles is at a low level, 6.10 kg and 213.30 kg, respectively. Inadequate disposal of old vehicles has been identified as a significant environmental threat in Bosnia and Herzegovina related to PBDE contamination. 

Bulletin of the Chemists and Technologists of Bosnia and Herzegovina 63, 11-17

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Correlations of total phenolics and antioxidant activity in royal jelly from Bosnia and Herzegovina Original Scientific Article

Toromanović, J., Medunjanin, D., Dizdar, M., Buza, N., Trešnjo, A., Tahirović, I.

DOI: 10.35666/2232-7266.2024.63.03

UDK: 638.162:577.1(497.6)

Abstract: In this study, the total phenolics content (TPC), and antioxidant activity against hydroxyl (AA_OH^·) and peroxyl (AA_ROO^·) free radicals in centrifuged (low molecular weight fractions, LM) and uncentrifuged (the bulk of low molecular weight and high molecular weight, LM+HM fractions) samples of fresh royal jelly (RJ) from Bosnia and Herzegovina (B&H), as well as correlations between these parameters were determined. For determination of the TPC, spectrophotometric method with gallic acid (GA) as the standard was used. For the determination of AA, the oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) assay with catechin as the standard was used. The highest TPC expressed in equivalent mass of GA per mass of RJ (LM+HM fractions) was found in the sample from Kalinovik, 5.54±0.76 mg GAE/g, and in the sample from Bosanska Krupa, 4.07±0.04 mg GAE/g for LM phenolics of RJ. The highest AA_OH^·expressed as mmol catechin equivalents (CE) per mass of LM+HM fraction of RJ was found in the sample from Cazin 58.15±1.55 mM CE/g, and in the sample from Ključ, 58.15±0.81 mM CE/g for LM fraction. The highest AA_ROO^· per mass of LM+HM fraction of RJ was found in the sample from Bosanska Krupa, 8.04±0.04 mM CE/g, in which also found the highest AA_ROO^·for LM fractions, 7.58±0.39 mM CE/g.  There were very high positive correlations between AA_OH^·_(LM+HM), as well as AA_OH^·_(LM)) and TPC_(LM+HM), as well as TPC_(LM) (Pearson correlations (P.c.)). It was moderate positive correlation AA_OH^·_(HM)to TPC_(HM). Also, there were weak positive correlations between AA_(ROO^·_)(LM+HM), as well as AA_(ROO^·_)LM and TPC_(LM+HM), as well asTPC_(LM), and weak negative correlation AA_(ROO^·_)(HM) to TPC_(HM). Based on a very high TPC and significant AA, it can be concluded that RJ from B&H is a good source of natural antioxidants and is an important dietary supplement.

Bulletin of the Chemists and Technologists of Bosnia and Herzegovina 632, 19-24

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Metal Desorption from the Lichen Evernia prunastri (L.) Ach. Using Simulated Acid Rain pH Solutions Original Scientific Article

Ramić, E., Huremović, J., Žero, S.

DOI: 10.35666/2232-7266.2024.63.04

UDK: 543[582.29:551.577.13]

Abstract: In this study, the content of Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, Pb, and Zn in washed and unwashed lichen Evernia prunastri (L.) Ach. was determined. Solutions similar to acid rain (H₂SO₄–HNO₃–(NH₄)₂SO₄–NH₄NO₃) with pH 2.02. 2.55, 3.61, 4.33, and 5.15 were used to investigate the desorption of metals from washed lichen Evernia prunastri. The metal analysis was conducted by flame atomic absorption spectrometry (FAAS). Content of Fe and Pb was higher in unwashed lichen, Mn and Ni were similar in washed and unwashed lichen, and Cr, Cu, Cd, and Zn were higher in the washed lichen sample. Using solution with pH 2.02, the percentage of desorbed Cu, Mn, Cd, and Zn was higher than 95%, while for Pb it was ~ 80%. Mn was desorbed in a mass percentage higher than 79%  in all simulated acid rain solutions, while the percentage of Cr desorption was less than 1%. Solutions with pH 3.61, 4.33, and 5.15 desorbed all metals except Mn in a percentage lower than 68%. The results indicate that the lichen Everina prunastri can become a secondary environment pollutant and that the mass percentage of desorbed metals depends on the strength of the bond between the metal and the components of the lichen tissue or cell wall, as well as on the pH value of the precipitation with which the lichen comes into contact.

Bulletin of the Chemists and Technologists of Bosnia and Herzegovina 63, 25-30

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Modification of the Surface of Objects for the Aviation Industry by the Procedure of Hard Chrome Plating Original Scientific Article

Šestan, I., Ristić, Z., Ćatić, S., Ahmetović, M., Lukić, B. 

DOI: 10.35666/2232-7266.2024.63.05

UDK: 620.196[669.268:661.875'027.1]

Abstract: In the paper, the quality of the hard chrome plating on standard steel plates and shroud-fuel nozzle used in the aviation industry was examined, where the thickness of the coating, hardness, microscopic structure and resistance to bending were determined. The entire galvanization process involved chemical, electrochemical and mechanical preparation of the examined parts prior to chromating, while the chromating itself took place in a solution of chromic acid. The aim of the work is to obtain high-quality hard chrome coatings through the process of reparation of worn shroud-fuel nozzle, which will be able to replace commercial new parts in terms of quality and characteristics. Also, taking into account that some parts are no longer even commercially available, the reparation procedure should enable extended use of the same parts.

Bulletin of the Chemists and Technologists of Bosnia and Herzegovina 63, 31-37

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Evaluation of Antioxidant, Antibacterial and Cytotoxic Effects of Pink Pepper Fruit Essential Oil Original Scientific Article

Horozić, E., Ademović, Z., Dautović, E., Kolarević, L., Cilović Kozarević, E., Karić, E., Ibišević, M., Huseinović, E., Husejnagić, D.

DOI: 10.35666/2232-7266.2024.62.01

UDK: 547.913:582.672

Abstract: Pink pepper is classified into the Californian/Peruvian type (Schinus molle) and the Brazilian type (S. terebinthifolia). According to studies, pink pepper extracts and essential oils have shown anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, genotoxic and antidiabetic properties in in vitro and in vivo studies. The results of bioactivity tests vary depending on the geographical origin of the pepper. In this paper, the cytotoxic, antioxidant and anti-bacterial effects of the essential oil of the commercial pink pepper fruit from the Tuzla market were investigated. To assess the cytotoxic potential, a tetrazolium salt reduction (MTT) viability assay was performed. The antioxidant potential was examined spectrophotometrically, using DPPH and FRAP methods. Diffusion techniques were used to evaluate the antibacterial activity of the essential oil. Using GC/MS, 24 components of red pepper essential oil were identified, of which α-pinene, α-phellandrene, δ-3-carene and D-limonene dominate. The studied pink pepper essential oil inhibited the cell proliferation in the HeLa cell line, causing a dose-dependent cytotoxic effect (IC₅₀=389.46 µg/mL). The essential oil inhibits DPPH radicals. The reducing ability is relatively weak. For the essential oil, an extremely good ability to inhibit the growth of the bacteria used in this study was confirmed. These results indicate a very high potential of essential oil of pink pepper fruit as an inhibitor of pathogenic organisms.

Bulletin of the Chemists and Technologists of Bosnia and Herzegovina 62, 01-06

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The inhibitory properties of the boiling extracts from Malus sylvestris andSyringa vulgaris flowers on the corrosion of stainless steel in sulphuric acid medium  Original Scientific Article

Oo Z. Y. M., Nikolaychuk P. A.

DOI: 10.35666/2232-7266.2024.62.02

Abstract: The inhibitory properties of the Malus sylvestris flower and Syringa vulgaris flower boiling extracts against the stainless steel EN Fe37-3FN corrosion in 0.5 M sulphuric acid medium were studied using electrochemical methods, including open circuit potential measurement, potentiodynamic polarisation and EIS. The addition of 10 mg/l of the Malus sylvestris flower extract slows the corrosion by 15%, and that of of 10 g/l – by 65%, while the addition of 10 mg/l of the Syringa vulgaris flower extract slows the corrosion by 30%, and that of of 1 g/l and more – by 65%. The Langmuir absorption model describes the adsorption of the components of the extracts on a surface of the steel, and the adsorption is physical in its nature. The Malus sylvestris flower and Syringa vulgaris flower extracts reveal themselves as interesting and environmentally safe substances for the steel corrosion rate reduction in acidic environments.

Bulletin of the Chemists and Technologists of Bosnia and Herzegovina 62, 07-12

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Binding constants and in silico analysis of albumin interaction with phenolic acids and flavonoids Original Scientific Article

Kristić, D., Dizdar, M., Ćavar Zeljković, S., Kopečny, D.,  Topčagić, A.

DOI: 10.35666/2232-7266.2024.62.03

UDK: 547.962.3:547.588.3

Abstract: : In this study, fluorescence techniques were utilized to investigate the interactions of selected phenolic acids (PAs) and flavonoids (FLs) with bovine serum albumin (BSA) under physiological conditions. The binding of PAs/FLs with BSA was investigated at three temperatures: 292, 303 and 310 K. From the obtained spectra, the Stern-Volmer constant (K_sv), bimolecular quenching constant (k_q), binding constants (K_b), and binding site number (n) constants were calculated. Presented results indicate that fluorescence quenching of BSA in the presence of phenolic acids/flavonoids is a static quenching process. The strongest static binding occurs during the formation of the BSA-pHBA (p-hydroxybenzoic acid) complex (k_q = 57.1×10¹² M^-1 s^-1 at 292 K), and BSA-Que (quercetin) complex (k_q = 42.8×10¹² M^-1 s^-1 at 292 K). The structure of PAs/FLs was revealed to significantly affect the binding/quenching process and additionaly, fluorescence resonance energy transfer studies confirmed the static nature of this process. The results of synchronous fluorescence spectra suggest changes in the microenvironment of tyrosine. Three-dimensional spectra showed changes related to the backbone structures of the protein chain (caused by the π-π∗transition of the carbonyl group). Furthermore, thermal denaturation was performed by nano differential scanning fluorimetry (nanoDSF) and transition temperature (T_m) values for BSA complexes with PAs/FLs are slightly lower than T_m for BSA, except T_m for BSA complexes with kaempferol and chrysine. According to in silico analysis, theoretically, caffeic acid and quercetin showed the best binding position with albumin (4F5S).

Bulletin of the Chemists and Technologists of Bosnia and Herzegovina 62, 13-24

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Application of hydrophobic solvents based on L-menthol, as greener alternatives to classical solvents for Pb(II) ions extraction Original Scientific Article

Suljkanović, M., Suljagić, J., Bjelić, E, Mandžukić, A.

DOI: 10.35666/2232-7266.2024.62.04

UDK: 547[544.722.132:541.8]

Abstract: Deep eutectic solvents (DESs) as a new-generation of solvents are receiving increasing attention as environmentally friendly solvents in various analytical techniques. These solvents are new generation solvents, and based upon what they are derived from, they can be the safest, cheapest, and most effective extraction methods available. With DES, the extraction efficiency and metal ion recycling are significantly improved. In this work, the potential application of these solvents for the extraction of Pb(II) ions was investigated. For that purpose, hydrophobic DESs (HDESs), based on L-menthol as H-acceptor and decanoic acid as H-donor, were prepared at molar ratios of acceptor to donor of 1:1 and 1:2. In the optimized extraction procedure, the Pb(II) ions were extracted into the organic phase with the efficiency of  94.3% and 97.3% for 1:1Men:DecA and 1:2 Men: Dec A, respectively. The results also showed that unlike of  classical liquid-liquid extraction methods, in the original solutions, counterions are not required to transfer the analyte to the hydrophobic phase. Furthermore, no ligands were required to transfer the  analyte ions to the HDES phase: the results show that the extraction efficiency of 1:1 HDES decreased to 88.65% in the presence of 18C6, and to 96.5% for 1:2 HDES. Comparable results for HDES (1:1 Men: DecA) extraction efficiency in the proposed method with the efficiency of 1,2-dichloroethane and chloroform in classical methods (96.7% and 92%, respectively), without counterions and without the requirement for ligands as carriers, make this HDES-based extraction method simpler, less expensive, and most importantly, more environmentally friendly.

Bulletin of the Chemists and Technologists of Bosnia and Herzegovina 62, 25-30

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The relationship between the physical and lipid characteristics of eggs from hens that were fed a diet supplemented with fat Original Scientific Article

Ohran, H., Hodžić, A., Semić, A., Ajanović, A., Crnkić, Ć.

DOI: 10.35666/2232-7266.2024.62.05

UDK: 577.1:637.41

Abstract: The aim of this study was to investigate the potential correlations between certain physical and lipid characteristics of eggs from hens fed diets supplemented with three different types of fat. A six-week-last experiment was conducted on 45 Brown Lohman laying hens, 56 weeks of age. Animals were randomly divided into three groups of 15, and fed one of three experimental diets supplemented with either 3% of fish oil, palm olein, and lard. Samples of 10 eggs per group were collected at the start and at the end of the experiment to determine four physical and six lipid characteristics in boiled eggs. The supplementation of the hens' diet with fat at significantly affected the physical characteristics of the The biggest impact on such finding for total sample of investigated eggs had palm olein as a supplement in hen diet. Among the three investigated fat supplements, the addition of 3% lard to the laying hen diet resulted in the smallest total number of significant correlations between investigated physical and lipid traits. Comparing the end to the start of our experiment, supplementation of hen diet with fat decreases the number of correlations among egg physical and lipid characteristics, what can be considered as a positive result from both egg producer and consumer interests.

Bulletin of the Chemists and Technologists of Bosnia and Herzegovina 62, 31-38

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Evaluation of Nicotine Transdermal Patches Available on the Domestic Market  Original Scientific Article

Uzunović, A., Mlivo, E., Pilipović, S., Šljivić Husejnović, M., Šapčanin, A., Pilipović, B.

DOI: 10.35666/2232-7266.2025.64.01

UDK: 543:613.84

Abstract: The use of transdermal patches with nicotine is a better way to quit smoking because it ensures a similar concentration of nicotine in the blood as when smoking and reduces the morning desire for a cigarette. The aim of this work was to analyze the behavior of the matrix with the active substance under conditions that are close to skin conditions. A total of 3 samples were collected from local market. The analysis was performed after 0.5, 1, 4, 10, 16 and 24 hours for each sample. The concentration of released nicotine for samples at 50 RPM ranged in the following range: sample 1 43.87 %-115.23 %; sample 2 40.56 %-114.70 %; sample 3 43.53 %-117.13 %. The concentration of released nicotine for the samples at 100 RPM ranged in the following range: sample 1 45.14 %-120.82 %; sample 2 49.05 %-120.79 %; sample 3 44.73 %-118.51 %. It was determined that most of the nicotine is released already after 4 hours. The samples also show very similar concentration results after 10 hours, and for all three samples the result was 0.096 mg/ml.

Bulletin of the Chemists and Technologists of Bosnia and Herzegovina 64, 01-05

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Bioeconomy and the Modern Challenge of Sustainable Production and Consumption of Biomass and Biofuels  Original Scientific Article

Papuga, S., Djurdjevic, M., Kotur, M.

DOI: 10.35666/2232-7266.2025.64.02

Abstract: The bioeconomy encompasses the whole economy’s reliance on biological and renewable resources, appears as a response to the global challenges confronting the present civilization. This paper explains the genesis of this concept, focusing particularly on its fundamental components, i.e. the sustainable utilization of biomass and the production of biofuels. It offers an overview of global policies and strategies in this domain, alongside the potential applications of biomass. A large number of studies highlight the great potential of biomass, surpassing the current human needs. However, its application has to be examined through three aspects: supply, demand and sustainability. The increase in biofuel production also imposes challenges such as the competitive use of land for biomass and food production, which is a particular problem, and in this regard, various technologies have been developed that use inedible biomass in the production of biofuels and valuable chemicals. Recognizing the importance of the bioeconomy, as an inevitable element in achieving sustainable development, the European Union adopted a strategy and action plan for the bioeconomy in 2012. Also, many countries that are important players in the global economy, such as the United States, Germany, Canada, Japan, etc. have adopted their national strategies that promote the bioeconomy. It is clear that there is a global interest in research and investment in supply chains for biomass and biofuels, which gives an optimistic picture of the future use of biomass as the basis of a future global bioeconomy.

Bulletin of the Chemists and Technologists of Bosnia and Herzegovina 64, 07-22

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New insight into the geochemical behavior of alkali and alkaline earth metals in a frequently subsampled clay pit sample with and without Al-normalization Original Scientific Article

Jurković, J.*, Sijahović, E., Bašić, F.

DOI: 10.35666/2232-7266.2025.64.03

UDK: 552.23[543:546]

Abstract: Clays are fine-particle-size materials (less than 2 μm) comprised mainly of clay minerals, which are hydrated aluminum silicates with associated alkali and alkaline earth elements. The small particle size and complex porous structure result in a high specific surface area, which allows strong physical and chemical interactions with dissolved species. Metals can also be incorporated within the clay structure, which can be made of octahedral and/or tetrahedral sheets. Depending on the composition of the tetrahedral and octahedral sheets, the layer will have no charge or will have a net negative charge. If the layers are charged, this charge is balanced by interlayer cations. The recent research of metals in clays mainly focused on heavy metals, while investigations of light metals are rather rare. For the investigation of the behavior of alkali and alkaline earth metals in clay samples, 110 subsamples of cored samples were taken. The total contents of potassium (K), magnesium (Mg), calcium (Ca), sodium (Na), strontium (Sr), and barium (Ba) were determined using inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES). Descriptive statistics were conducted using maximum, minimum, average, and median values. Correlation and PCA analysiswith and without Al-normalization were calculated to determine the different behavior of metals, The contents of metals lie in the following sequence: K>Mg>Ca>Na>Ba>Sr. The highest correlation between metals was found between Mg and K (r=0.87) and Ba and Sr (r=0.65). PCA analysis revealed two subgroups: 1) K, Mg, Na. 2) Ba, Sr. After the Al normalization was applied, Ba and Sr showed the highest correlation (r=0.81). Ca did not significantly contribute to any of the PCA subgroups, suggesting a possible different source and behavior.

Bulletin of the Chemists and Technologists of Bosnia and Herzegovina 64, 23-31

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Antioxidant Properties of Alien Plant Species: Assessing Phenolic and Flavonoid Content, Antioxidant, Oxidant Capacities, and Antimicrobial Activity Proceedings

Burović, S., Pašić, L., Madacki-Todorović, K. Sarajlić, N., Galijašević, S.

DOI: 10.35666/2232-7266.2025.64.04

UDK: 542.943'78:634-1/-2

Abstract: Alien plant species pose significant threats to natural ecosystems due to their adaptability and invasive potential. In this study, the antioxidant activity of 13 alien and invasive plant species was investigated, regarding their total phenolic content, flavonoid content, total antioxidant capacity, total oxidant capacity, and antimicrobial activity. Plant tissues were macerated, evaporated to dryness, and the extracts were dissolved in water. Total phenolic content ranged from 6.55 mg GAE/g extract to 30.82 mg GAE/g extract. Flavonoid content spanned from 3.04 mg Quercetin/g extract to 40.81 mg Quercetin/g extract. The total antioxidant capacity ranged between 662 CEAC µM and 1540 CEAC µM. Total oxidative capacity can be correlated to the abiotic stress. Rhus typhina L. and Impatiens balfourii Hooker f., exhibited positive total oxidant capacity values of 122.56 ± 7.85 µM H₂O₂ Equiv./L and 141.38 ± 4.33 µM H₂O₂ Equiv./L, respectively. These two species also showed the highest total antioxidant capacity that were 1190,06 ± 137,36 CEAC µM for Rhus typhina L and 1540,34 ± 270,84 for CEAC Impatiens balfourii Hooker f. The results suggest that the extraction solvent significantly affects the antioxidant capacity, with ethanol generally providing higher extraction efficiency for many species. The antimicrobial activity was determined against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Proteus mirabilis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Candida albicans. Rhus typhina L was active against E. coli and P. mirabilis.

This data indicates that plants increased antioxidant defense systems against abiotic stresses. Clearly, the correlation between total oxidant capacity and total antioxidant capacity values in plants is a valuable factor indicating the mechanism of the plant defense. 

Bulletin of the Chemists and Technologists of Bosnia and Herzegovina 64, 33-42

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Content of Total Phenolics, Total Flavonoids and Vitamin C, and Antioxidant Activity of Selected Raspberry Varieties Proceedings

Topčagić, A., Muftić-Brdar, D. , Klepo, L., Mujezin, A., Toromanović, J., Tahirović, I.

DOI: 10.35666/2232-7266.2025.64.05

UDK:582.711.712:577.164.2(497.6 Cazin)

Abstract: This paper presents the study of total phenolics (TPs), total flavonoids (TFs), vitamin C and antioxidant activity (AA) of fruits and juices of raspberry varieties from the area of the municipality of Cazin. Five raspberry varieties (Fertodi, Meeker, Polka, Tulameen, and Willamette) grown according to the integral concept, as well as one sample of the Willamette variety grown as a hobby within the homestead - semi-intensive concept (W-sc) were analyzed. The TPs (before and after precipitation with formaldehyde) were quantified using the Folin-Ciocalteu method with gallic acid (GA) as a standard. The TFs were calculated from the difference between the TPs before and after precipitation. To determine the content of vitamin C, L-ascorbic acid (AsA) was utilized as a standard. In addition, the AA of the raspberry samples was tested using the ABTS radical scavenging method, using trolox (T) as a standard. The highest TPs content in fresh raspberry fruits (f.f.) was shown by the Tulameen variety (1608.77 mg GAE/100 g), while the W-sc sample showed the highest TPs content (1417.65 mg GAE/100 mL) among fresh raspberry juices (f.j.). The Tulameen variety had the highest TFs in f.f. (1513.81 mg GAE/100 g) and the Willamette variety in f.j. (789.99 mg GAE/100 mL). The highest content of vitamin C was shown by the variety Meekerin both tested raspberry fractions (45.87 mg AsAE/100 g in f.f., and 37.42 mg AsAE/100 mL in f.j.). All samples exhibited AA, whereby the best AA was shown by the Fertodi variety (7.60 mM TE/g) for f.f. samples, while the Meeker variety had the highest value of AA (6.26mM TE/mL) among f.j. samples.

Bulletin of the Chemists and Technologists of Bosnia and Herzegovina 64, 43-48

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