Spectroscopy Methods Research Articles

LUMINESCENCE CHARACTERISTICS OF CASO4:TB,M (M=NA,K,RB) PHOSPHORS

In the present study, the investigation of complex luminescence terbium centres as well as the analysis of technological features of the synthesis of small-grained wide-gap CaSO :Tb3+ anhydrite phosphors containing 1% of Tb3+ and some amount of additional impurity ions (Na+, K+, Rb+) have been continued using the methods of optical and thermoactivation spectroscopy. Of particular interest was a contribution of calcium ions into formation of complex luminescence centres. Ca causes efficient dynamic hybridization of electronic states and influence on the formation of terbium and near-terbium electronic excitations. The excitation spectra of Tb3+-centre emission have been measured in the VUV spectral range at 77 or 300 K. The excitation band related to the lowest f–d transition of Tb3+ ions at ≈5.9 eV in CaSO4 undergoes broadening toward the long- wavelength side, when the radius of a charge compensator increases (K+→ Rb+). The band at 7.5–9 eV ascribed to the excitation of oxyanions has a different shape in CaSO4:Tb,K and CaSO4:Tb,Rb. Thermally stimulated luminescence (80–700 K) have been analyzed for a set of anhydrite phosphors previously irradiated by X-rays at 80 and 300 K. Keywords: CaSO , Tb3+, photoluminescence, thermoluminescence, vacuum ultraviolet spectroscopy.

Cloud point Extraction Of Methimazole By Direct (UV- Vis Spectrophotometer) And Indirect (Flame Atomic Absorption) methods

Abstract A new technique based on the formation of a chelate Methimazole-Fe(III) at 400 nm was used for the determination of Methimazole 114 as a surfactant in some pharmaceuticals using indirect flame atomic absorption spectroscopy (FAAS) and UV-visible methods based on Triton turbidity extraction. The optimal turbidity extraction temperature was 75.0°C after 25 min of extraction of the complex [MET-Fe(III)] with ethanol. The structure of the Methimazole-Fe(III) chelate was determined by the molar ratio method. A 1:1 L:M (ligand:metal) ratio was produced. The Beer law was employed in the concentration range of 2.5-30 and 2.5-32.5 g/mL for the UV and FAAS, respectively.. The limits of detection (LOD) and quantification (LOQ) were (0.3784) g/ml and (1.2612) g/ml, respectively, for these techniques. The technique has been approved and successfully used in the production of pharmaceutical preparations such as: B. Methimazole capsules sold in Iraq. The analytical results were validated by statistical and recycling studies with satisfactory results.

Synergistic catalysis of dual-sites promoted cycloaddition of CO2 with epoxides

This study explores the catalytic efficacy of fluorine-modified 1 wt% copper oxide on MCM-41 (F-1Cu/MCM-41) in carbon dioxide cycloaddition reactions. It delves into reaction mechanisms, active sites, and the practical applicability of the catalyst. Comprehensive examination through in situ diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transform spectroscopy and other analytical methods substantiated the role of halogen-modified mono-dispersed copper species in carbon dioxide activation and silicon hydroxide sites in epoxide activation, while underscoring the role of Lewis bases and Brønsted acids. Kinetic studies and density functional theory calculations pinpointed carbon dioxide activation as the pivotal step. Furthermore, the catalyst exhibited robust stability and efficiency in continuous flow experiments, sustaining a 99% selectivity towards cyclic carbonate over 150 h. An eco-friendly evaluation confirmed the sustainability of the process, emphasizing its minimal environmental footprint and high efficiency. These results establish fluorine-modified 1 wt% copper oxide on MCM-41 as a formidable candidate for industrial-scale cyclic carbonate production, due to its promising performance and sustainability.

Modified creatinine index as a marker of skeletal muscle mass in peritoneal dialysis patients.

Sarcopenia is common in peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients. Modified creatinine index (MCrI) by the Canaud's formula and single-pool Kt/V value is an accurate surrogate marker for muscle mass in hemodialysis patients. However, the method of calculation and validity of MCrI has not been tested in PD. In the exploratory cohort, we studied 138 consecutive patients converted from PD to hemodialysis. Their MCrI during PD, calculated by the Canaud's formula with total weekly Kt/V, and the conventional MCrI after conversion to HD, were compared by the Bland-Altman method. Their correlation with muscle mass as determined by bioimpedance spectroscopy and creatinine kinetic methods was explored. The result was then validated in a second cohort of 605 incident PD patients. In the exploratory cohort, the average bias of computing MCrI during PD and hemodialysis was 0.758mg/kg/day (95%CI -4.356 to 5.873mg/kg/day). The MCrI during PD significantly correlated with the muscle mass by creatinine kinetics (r=.684, P<.0001) and by bioimpedance spectroscopy (r=.641, P<.0001), but not with protein nitrogen appearance, overhydration, or adipose tissue mass, and the result was similar in the validation cohort. For incident PD patients, MCrI quartile was significantly associated with the risk of death from all cause in 12 months (Gray's test, P=.013) but not conversion to chronic hemodialysis (P=.14). In PD patients, MCrI computed by the Canaud's formula and total weekly Kt/V is a simple and reliable marker of skeletal muscle mass and may serve as a short-term prognostic indicator.

Direct synthesis of Cu-TiO&lt;sub&gt;2&lt;/sub&gt;-SBA-16 photocatalysts and its application for the oxidative desulfurization of fuel oil model

In this study, the Cu-TiO2-SBA-16 photocatalytic materials were successfully prepared by direct hydrothermal synthesis method. The products were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Ultraviolet–Visible Diffuse Reflectance Spectroscopy (UV-Vis DRS), energy dispersive X-ray (EDX), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), N2 adsorption–desorption isotherms, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) methods. The analysis illustrated that Cu-TiO2 nanocrystals were successfully incorporated into the SBA-16 mesopores. The photocatalytic activity of these Cu-TiO2-SBA-16 mesoporous materials have been tested by the oxidative desulfurization reaction of dibenzothiophene (DBT) using H2O2 as an oxidant under UV light irradiation. The results showed that the Cu-TiO2-SBA-16 mesoporous materials prepared at the Cu/Ti mole ratios of 0.05 showed higher photocatalytic activity than the rest due to the decrease in band gap energy.

Comparative Characteristics of Electrolyte Solutions Using Electrical Impedance Spectroscopy Method

Electrolyte solutions can conduct electric current and help maintain balance in the human body. This study compares the electrical impedance characteristics of various electrolyte solutions using the Electrical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS) method. Three types of electrolyte solutions were tested: NaCl solution, Ringer’s Lactate (RL) solution, and Simulated Body Fluid (SBF) solution with concentration variations of 20%, 40%, 60%, 80%, and 100%. Measurements were conducted over a frequency range from 1 Hz to 1 MHz to compare electrolyte solutions using a frequency of 10 kHz with an electric current of 50 μA. At a frequency of 10 kHz, a comparison of the three types of electrolyte solutions with concentration variations from 20% to 100% was made. The measurement result showed that the NaCl solution had an impedance value of 200Ω to 900Ω at high frequencies. The Ringer’s Lactate (RL) solution exhibited impedance variations with impedance values ranging from 800Ω to 300Ω, which is more complex due to the other hand, the Simulated Body Fluid (SBF) solution demonstrated impedance stability at high frequencies with impedance values ranging from 400Ω to 200Ω, indicating its electrical properties suitability with human body conditions. Each electrolyte solution has its characteristics in impedance values at a frequency of 10 kHz, which allows for comparing the three types of electrolyte solutions. For further research, additional studies could include impedance characteristics of electrolyte solutions to broaden understanding of their electrical properties, considering variations in frequency and current conditions to optimise impedance characteristic measurements for various electrolyte solutions.

Spectroscopic Method Development and Validation for Lasmiditan Quantification in Bulk and its Tablet Formulations

Spectroscopic Method Development and Validation for Lasmiditan Quantification in Bulk and its Tablet Formulations

Construction of Multi-Channel Radio Frequency Plasma Jet System in Atmospheric Pressure and the Diagnosis of Plasma Parameters and I-V Characteristics

In order to produce cold plasma at atmospheric pressure, a multi-channel RF, of (1, 2, 3, and 4 MHz) frequencies, plasma jet system is developed using argon as the working gas. This system consists of two parts, a multi-channel power supply (of a power of 100 W) and a plasma jet. A strong electric field is created that ionizes and excites argon ions. The I-V characteristics of the system and the electron temperature and density for different powers (20, 50, 70, and 80 W), gas flow rates (10, 20, 30, and 40 sccm) (standard centimeter cubic per minute) at different frequencies (1, 2, 3, and 4 MHz) are studied, using the optical emission spectroscopy method. This system can be used in medical applications and material treatment with high efficiency.

Analysis of Bacterial Characteristics Using the Electrical Impedance Spectroscopy Method

Microorganisms have various shapes, structures, and characteristics. This study uses the method of electrical impedance spectroscopy aimed at identifying and comparing the characteristics of Escherichia Coli, Salmonella Typhi, and Staphylococcus Aureus. Measurements from 1 Hz to 100,000 Hz show that Salmonella Typhi has the highest impedance value at low frequencies. In contrast, Escherichia Coli impedance decreases consistently, and Staphylococcus Aureus decreases sharply after 10 Hz. Significant changes are observed in the mid-frequency range of 100 Hz to 1000 Hz, with Salmonella Typhi showing the highest impedance values at 100 Hz compared to Staphylococcus Aureus and Escherichia Coli. At 100 Hz, Salmonella Typhi has the highest impedance value with a mass of 0,06 grams at approximately 39.000 Ohms, 0,08 grams at 35.000 Ohm, and 10 grams at 34.000 Ohm. This is followed by Staphylococcus Aureus, with a mass 0f 0,06 grams having an impedance value of 23.000 Ohms, 0,08 grams having a high impedance value of 31.000 Ohm, and 0,10 grams having an impedance value of 15.000 Ohm. Escherichia Coli, with a mass of 0.06 grams, has an impedance value of 9.000 Ohms, 0,08 grams with an impedance value of 5.000 Ohms, and 0,10 grams has an impedance value of 5.000 Ohms. Electrical Impedance Spectroscopy is effective for identifying and comparing Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureu, and Salmonella typhi as the intrinsic characteristics of bacterial cells more influence impedance than bacterial mass.

Using Nuclear Methods in X-ray Fluorescence Spectroscopy to Quantify Heavy Metals in Senegalese Powdered Milk: Improving Milk Safety

Applying X-ray fluorescence (XRF), this study investigated the elemental analysis and heavy metal contents in five Senegalese powdered milk samples (V1, L1, H1, G1, and D1). The primary focus was on Aluminum (Al), Calcium (Ca), Potassium (K), Phosphorous (P), and Chlorine (Cl), with special attention given to the compliance of these elements with safety standards. The analysis revealed that Aluminum was either absent or present in minimal quantities across all samples, suggesting that the powdered milk is largely free from this element. Calcium levels were found to be consistently higher than the Acceptable Maximum Level (AML) across all samples, with the H1 sample significantly exceeding the AML by approximately 11.1 times, with a concentration of 27,745.06 ± 310.16 ppm. This indicates a potential risk of excessive calcium intake from this sample. Potassium concentrations varied significantly; while the V1 sample remained within acceptable limits, the G1 sample exhibited potassium levels substantially above the AML, reaching 51,058.15 ± 456.13 ppm, which could pose health concerns if consumed in large quantities. Chlorine concentrations generally met the AML, except for the G1 sample, which slightly surpassed the limit at 3631.04 ± 31.23 ppm. The phosphorus content in the H1 sample was notably high, though further details are needed to fully assess its implications. The study underscores the necessity for continuous monitoring of heavy metal and elemental levels in powdered milk to ensure consumer safety.

Retrieval and Comparison of Multi-Satellite Polar Ozone Data from the EMI Series Instruments

The Environmental Trace Gases Monitoring Instrument (EMI) series are second-generation Chinese spectrometers on board the GaoFen-5 (GF-5) and DaQi-1 (DQ-1) satellites. In this study, a comparative analysis of EMI series data was conducted to determine the daily trend of ozone concentration changes owing to different transit times and to improve the overall quality and reliability of EMI series datasets. The daily EMI total ozone column (TOC) obtained using the Differential Optical Absorption Spectroscopy (DOAS) method were compared to vertical column density (VCD) gathered by the TROPOspheric Monitoring Instrument (TROPOMI). The results from October to November 2023 indicated a fine correlation (R = 0.98) between the daily EMI series data and a fine correlation (R ≥ 0.95) and spatial distribution closely resembling that of the TROPOMI TOCs. Furthermore, the EMI series data fusion results were highly correlated with TROPOMI TOCs (R = 0.99). Since the EMI series instruments had two different overpass times and the volume of available data at same pixel was increased by approximately three-fold, the temporal and spatial resolution was improved a lot. The results indicated that, compared to a single sensor, the EMI series DOAS TOCs generated more accurate and stable global TOC results and also enabled looking at the changes in the intraday TOCs. These outcomes highlight the potential of the EMI instruments for reliably monitoring the ozone variations in polar regions.

PRISM: three-dimensional sub-diffractive phase-resolved imaging spectroscopic method

We demonstrate a genuine method for three-dimensional pictorial reconstructions of two-dimensional, three-dimensional, and hybrid specimens based on confocal Raman data collected in a back-scattering geometry of a 532-nm setup. The protocol, or the titular PRISM (Phase-Resolved Imaging Spectroscopic Method), allows for sub-diffractive and material-resolved imaging of the object’s constituent material phases. The spacial component comes through either the signal distal attenuation ratio (direct mode) or subtle light-matter interactions, including interference enhancement and light absorption (indirect mode). The phase component is brought about by scrutinizing only selected Raman-active modes. We illustrate the PRISM approach in common real-life examples, including photolithographically structured amorphous Al2O3, reactive-ion-etched homoepitaxial SiC, and Chemical Vapor Deposition graphene transferred from copper foil onto a Si substrate and AlGaN microcolumns. The method is implementable in widespread Raman apparatus and offers a leap in the quality of materials imaging. The lateral resolution of PRISM is stage-limited by step motors to 100 nm. At the same time, the vertical accuracy is estimated at a nanometer scale due to the sensitivity of one of the applied phenomena (interference enhancement) to the physical property of the material (layer thickness).

Formation of a combined electron-hole emission state in the LiRbSO4 – Eu phosphor

In the irradiated phosphor 4 LiRbSO Eu , the mechanisms of formation of the induced or combined electron-emitting state at 3.1-2.94 eV were studied using optical and thermal activation spectroscopy methods. It has been shown experimentally that the combined electron-emitting state of the phosphor is formed from the electron states of impurity and intrinsic electron and hole trapping centers of 24Eu SO   and 34 4 SO SO . Electron and hole trapping centers are created by irradiating the phosphor with photons exceeding the width of the forbidden band of the matrix, where free electrons are created in the conduction band and a hole in the valence band. The trapping center is formed by the capture of free electrons by impurities and anionic complexes according to the reaction 3 2 Eu e Eu      ,2 34 4 SO e SO    . In one process with electron centers, holes in the form of 24SO are localized. Thus, impurity and intrinsic 2 4Eu SO   and 34 4 SO SO  electron-hole trapping centers are formed. Similarly, trapping centers are formed as a result of charge transfer from the excited anion of the 24SO complex to the 3Eu  impurities and to the neighboring 2 4 SO anions according to the reaction ( 2 3 O Eu   ) and ( 2 24O SO  ), and localized holes are also formed in one act along with it. Combined electron-emitting states consisting of impurity and intrinsic electron states are excited by photons with energies of ~4.0 eV and ~4.5 eV.

Maturity characterization and formation mechanisms of nano-scale anisotropic pyrobitumen based on atomic force microscopy (AFM)

Highly evolved pyrobitumen is an important and realistic object for maturity characterization of ancient and deeply buried organic matter, but measurement of its reflectance is challenging due to its strong optical anisotropy and nano-scale relief. Here we conducted a case study in the Sinian (Ediacaran) Dengying Formation of the Sichuan Basin, China. High-resolution, three-dimensional, morphological imaging by atomic force microscopy (AFM), laser Raman (LRM) spectroscopy, and reflectance studies were conducted on the reservoir pyrobitumen. Our results show that Young’s modulus and adhesion, which are mechanical maturity parameter, provides effective characterization of maturity. The increase in Young’s modulus of pyrobitumen lags that of the vitrinite, given that pyrobitumen is formed by oil cracking and is more hydrogen-rich than vitrinite. A quantitative relationship between Young’s modulus, adhesion and reflectance in bright and dark areas of pyrobitumen was established, which can be used for maturity characterization. The changes in Young’s modulus of the pyrobitumen is related to the condensation of organic matter and directional arrangement of microcrystals. Young’s modulus of organic matter is a robust mechanical maturity index at high organic matter maturity (Ro > 2.0 %), but it is important to pay attention to the influence of anisotropy. Compared to Young’s modulus, adhesion is less affected by anisotropy. The nano-mechanics such as Young’s modulus and adhesion will be new maturity indicator in addition to conventional optical and spectroscopic method. The nano-mechanical properties of organic matter are expected to be applied to maturity indicators and macerals classification in the field of organic petrology in the further research.

Unravelling of cellulolytic fungal consortium from humus soil for efficient lignocellulosic waste degradation

Cellulose is a complex polysaccharide composed of β 1, 4 glycosidic linkages and these linkages are broken down by a complex enzyme system called cellulase. Cellulase is an enzyme complex associated with β 1, 4 endoglucanase, β 1, 4 exoglucanase, and β glucosidase. The fungal strains were isolated from decomposed humus soil and screened for the best cellulolytic activity. Thirty-two isolates were screened among these; three were selected based on their morphological characters and hydrolytic capacity, viz, Cladosporium oxysporum N5, Aspergillus sigurros N6, and Cladosporium cladosporioides N12. Among these fungi, Cladosporium oxysporum N5 shows potential hydrolytic activity and was selected for optimization studies and evaluation of their cellulolytic capability. Cellulolytic strain Cladosporium oxysporum N5 produced maximum amount of cellulase enzyme at 5 days of incubation at 30 ℃ and pH 7, viz, β 1, 4 endoglucanase (167.83± U/ml), β 1, 4 exoglucanase (29.04± U/ml), and β glucosidase (34.07± U/ml). SEM coupled Energy dispersive X-ray and FTIR spectroscopy methods revealed the cellulose degradation efficiency of fungal cellulase by microscopic, elemental percentage, and functional group, respectively. An affordable and eco-friendly fungal-based cellulase that will boost industrially important commodity production such as food, beverages, pharmaceuticals, fertilisers, and biofuels.

Overview of the Design and Application of Dual-Signal Immunoassays

Immunoassays have been widely used for the determination of various analytes in the fields of disease diagnosis, food safety, and environmental monitoring. Dual-signal immunoassays are now advanced and integrated detection technologies with excellent self-correction and self-validation capabilities. In this work, we summarize the recent advances in the development of optical and electrochemical dual-signal immunoassays, including colorimetric, fluorescence, surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS), electrochemical, electrochemiluminescence, and photoelectrochemical methods. This review particularly emphasizes the working principle of diverse dual-signal immunoassays and the utilization of dual-functional molecules and nanomaterials. It also outlines the challenges and prospects of future research on dual-signal immunoassays.

Preparation of Mesoporous Analcime/Sodalite Composite from Natural Jordanian Kaolin

In this work, a meso-macroporous analcime/sodalite zeolite composite was produced by a hybrid synthesis process between a complex template method and hydrothermal treatment at 220 °C of naturally abundant kaolinitic-rich clay, using dodecyltrimethylammonium bromide as an organic soft template to enhance the mesoporous structure. The chemical and morphological properties of the developed zeolites composite were characterized using powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD), attenuated total Reflectance–Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), N2 adsorption/desorption; and scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive spectroscopy (SEM-EDS) methods were used to study the morphology, chemical composition and structure of the product. Two types of zeolite particles were obtained:(1) hollow microsphere with an attached analcime icositetrahedron of 30–40 µm in size and (2) sodalite microsphere with a ball-like morphology of 3–4 µm in size. Both N2 adsorption/desorption and surface area data confirmed the high potentiality of the produced zeolite composite to act as an excellent adsorbent to remove inorganic pollutants such as Cu, Cd, Cr, Ni, Zn, and Pb ions, organic pollutants such as dyes, phenolic compounds, and surfactants from water; and their high catalytic activity, especially in the oxidation reaction of volatile organic compounds. The catalytic activity and adsorption ability of the produced analcime/sodalite composite will be tested experimentally in future work.

Development and Validation of FTIR Spectroscopic Method for the Quantitative Estimation of Lornoxicam in Tablet Dosage Form.

Lornoxicam is available in the market as a solid dosage form, particularly tablets. Liquid chromatography has been the recommended assay procedure for lornoxicam in various pharmacopeias. While going through the literature, it was observed that for the analysis of lornoxicam, no FTIR based method was found. The present study involves the development of a novel, rapid, superior, labor-free, non-destructive, and economic FTIR-based analytical technique for the analysis of lornoxicam in both bulk and tablet formulations. International Council validated the method for Harmonization of Technical Requirements for Pharmaceuticals for Human Use (ICH) guidelines Q2A and Q2B in accordance with the United States Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) guidance and by United States Pharmacopoeia (USP). FTIR based method is extremely precise, quite linear, very accurate, and has adequate ruggedness. The developed method can be of potential use in the routine quantitative drug analysis of lornoxicam in the pharmaceutical industry for quality control purposes.

Research on electrical conductive properties of thulium-doped calcium zirconate solid electrolyte

To further investigate the electrochemical performance of Tm doped CaZrO3 electrolyte, the CaZr1−xTmxO3−α (x = 0, 0.025, 0.05, 0.075 and 0.1) solid electrolyte specimens were prepared by high temperature solid state method. The phase structure and microstructure of the electrolyte samples were analyzed by Raman spectrum, XRD and SEM. The electrical conductivity of the specimen was measured at the temperature of 673∼1373K in hydrogen-rich and oxygen-rich atmosphere by the two-terminal AC impedance spectroscopy method. The H/D isotope effect of the specimen at different temperature was tested to confirm the dominant conducting carrier in predetermined temperature and atmosphere. It is found that proton is the dominant charge carrier both in oxygen-rich and hydrogen-rich atmosphere at the lower temperature below 1073 K. However, at higher temperature above 1073K, the predominant charge carrier seems to be oxygen ion vacancy in hydrogen-rich, whereas to be electron hole in oxygen-rich atmosphere, based on the analysis of the atmospheric dependence of the electrical conductivity. Moreover, partial conductivities of conducting species, the active doping amount of Tm and the standard Gibbs free energy changes for interstitial proton production by dissolution of water and hydrogen in Tm doped electrolyte were estimated based on crystal defect chemistry theory.

LC-MS/MS Analysis of crude Flavonoid Compounds from &lt;i&gt;Justicia secunda&lt;/i&gt; from Democratic Republic of the Congo and evaluation of their antisickling Activity

&lt;i&gt;Justicia secunda&lt;/i&gt; Vahl (Acanthaceae) is a tropical herbaceous plant traditionally used by indigenous peoples of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) to treat symptoms associated with sickle cell disease (SCD), a genetic condition with life-threatening complications. Given the lack of side-effect-free drugs, alternative herbal therapies that can reduce or reverse red blood cell sickling may serve as safe and effective treatments. The primary objective of this study is to conduct a phytochemical screening of crude flavonoids extracted from &lt;i&gt;J. secunda&lt;/i&gt; using LC-ESI/MS/MS. &lt;i&gt;J. secunda&lt;/i&gt; extracts were evaluated for their phytoconstituents and anti-sickling properties. The anti-sickling properties were assessed through reverse sickling estimation, polymerization and oxidation inhibition, and osmotic fragility assays. Fractionation of the methanol extract and chemical profiling were performed by flash chromatography and high-performance thin-layer chromatography analysis respectively. Characterization and identification of the crude flavonoids were done using chromatography and spectroscopy methods. Chemical screening of crude flavonoids revealed the presence of 12 flavonoid O-glycosides based on one flavonol (methoxy-kaempferol) and two flavones (luteolin and apigenin). The crude flavonoid extracts demonstrated maximum reversal of sickled red blood cells (91.9 ± 0.8%), significant inhibition of hemoglobin polymerization (77.8 ± 7.6%) and hemoglobin S auto-oxidation (96.3 ± 0.2), and provided maximum protection of red blood cells against hyperhemolysis. The results validate the traditional use of &lt;i&gt;J. secunda&lt;/i&gt; and identify potential compounds for the development of novel anti-sickling agents.