Crystal Morphology Research Articles

Synthesis of ZnO NWs via Thermal Evaporation Technique

Zinc oxide nanowires ZnONWs were successfully synthesized on glass slides. The synthesis was conducted firstly by the deposition of 12 µm a thin film of Zn metal by thermal evaporation. Secondly,the coated film was annealed at a temperature of 600 ºC in air for four hours to grow the ZnO nanowires. It have been observed that the produced nanowires were grown in a vertical orientation and having a high density, very long, and a minimal aspect ratio. The crystal structure and morphology of ZnO nanowires were investigated with X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The UV-visible spectrophotometer was also used to calculate the optical parameters from the absorption spectrum and show a band gap energy around 3.25 eV. The crystal structure of the material was revealed to be polycrystalline with a preferred orientation in the direction of [101]. Small average crystallite size was calculated about 17nm The wires can be measured to have a length of around 10 µm with diameters ranging from 50 to 100 nm. This could be used for gas sensor applications. In addition, this ZnONWs structure has a maximum transmittance (100%) which can be a good candidate for many optoelectronic apllications.

Enhanced carbon sequestration via phosphogypsum utilization in conjunction with concrete wastewater treatment

The simultaneous utilization of concrete wastewater (CW) and phosphogypsum (PG) to mineralize CO2 for carbon reduction is a green and low-carbon treatment method. In this work, the combined carbonation process of CW and PG and the role of ammonia as an additive were investigated. The addition of ammonia balances the excess anions, inhibits CaCO3 resolvation, and enhances the gas–liquid mass transfer. The higher pH and ionic strength of CW help to accelerate the PG dissolution and increase the PG conversion rate. Simultaneously, a decalcification efficiency of 100 % for CW and a PG conversion rate of 98.00 % were achieved. This process resulted in a CO2 capture of 215.76 g CO2/kg PG, with the pH of the synergistically treated wastewater ranging from 6.43 to 7.54. Additionally, the common ionic effect of Ca2+ and SO42−, the salting effect of CW, and the salting-out effect of CO2 influenced the reaction. The formation of vaterite under pressurized conditions was primarily governed by pH, which played a key role in determining the crystal morphology. The interaction between CW and PG was further confirmed in 5 L scale-up experiments, during which ammonia recycling was also achieved. This study fully utilized CW, combining it with PG to efficiently repurpose wastewater and solid waste for resource recovery.

Application Of Vanadyl Alkoxoacetylacetonate In Formation Of v2O5 Electrochromic Films

Crystal structure, morphology and electrochromic properties of V2O5 film, prepared using vanadyl alkoxoacetylacetonate as precursor, were studied. We have shown that the obtained vanadium pentoxide contains significant amount of V4+ cations, which is indicated by low electron work function among other things. This results in material possessing anodic electrochromism – coloring upon oxidation – with rapid bleaching process (1 s upon necessary potential application). Anodic coloration is observed in the whole visible light spectrum, as well as in near IR region up to 1100 nm. Obtained data show high prospects for approach to formation of V2O5-based films using vanadyl acetylacetonate as precursor and application of such films as components of smart windows and displays, optical properties of which could be controlled by electrical current application.

Comparison and mechanism study on solidification of loose pisha sandstone by indigenous bacteria and sporosarcina pasteurii

Pisha sandstone is a kind of sandstone which is easy to collapse by water in Shanxi, Shaanxi and Inner Mongolia of China, and suffers from hydraulic erosion all the year round. In recent years, some scholars have used microbial induced calcium carbonate precipitation (MICP) technology to solidify Pisha sandstone to improve the water erosion resistance of Pisha sandstone. However, for the climate environment with low average temperature in Pisha sandstone area, the commonly used Sporosarcina pasteurii are not well adapted. The purpose of this study is to use the indigenous strainsto solidify the loose Pisha sandstone, and to compare the growth adaptability, mechanical properties and water erosion resistance of the solidified layer with Sarcina pasteurii at different temperatures, and to explore the mechanism of different temperatures and strains affecting the microbial solidification of Pisha sandstone from the micro scale. At the same time, a mixed bacterial liquid solidification test was also set up. The results showed that the solidified thickness of indigenous strains was 4.65 % higher than that of Sporosarcina pasteurii, and the thickness and strength of mixed strains were increased by 19.57 % and 36.62 %, respectively. The growth and solidification effect of indigenous strains were less affected by low temperature. Compared with Sporosarcina pasteurii, at low temperature, the bacterial concentration decrease of indigenous strains was reduced by 26.13 %, the thickness loss of solidified layer was reduced by 13.04 %, and the strength loss of solidified layer was reduced by 13.39 %. The effect of low temperature on the growth of bacteria is mainly reflected in affecting the maximum concentration of bacteria and the growth rate. The effect on MICP mainly reflected in affecting the life activities of bacteria and the crystal form and morphology of calcium carbonate. The research results provide a theoretical basis for the MICP technology application of indigenous strains and multi-strains in Pisha sandstone area soil reinforcement and solidification slope.

Molybdenum Disulfide Induced Phase Control Synthesis of Multi‐dimensional Co3S4‐MoS2 Heteronanostructures via Cation Exchange

AbstractPhase control over cation exchange (CE) reactions has emerged as an important approach for the synthesis of nanomaterials (NMs), enabling precise determination of their reactivity and properties. Although factors such as crystal structure and morphology have been studied for the phase engineering of CE reactions in NMs, there remains a lack of systematic investigation to reveal the impact for the factors in heterogeneous materials. Herein, we report a molybdenum disulfide induced phase control method for synthesizing multidimensional Co3S4‐MoS2 heteronanostructures (HNs) via cation exchange. MoS2 in parent Cu1.94S‐MoS2 HNs are proved to affect the thermodynamics and kinetics of CE reactions, and facilitate the formation of Co3S4‐MoS2 HNs with controlled phase. This MoS2 induced phase control method can be extended to other parent HNs with multiple dimensions, which shows its diversity. Further, theoretical calculations demonstrate that Co3S4 (111)/MoS2 (001) exhibits a higher adhesion work, providing further evidence that MoS2 enables phase control in the HNs CE reactions, inducing the generation of novel Co3S4‐MoS2 HNs. As a proof‐of‐concept application for crystal phase‐ and dimensionality‐dependent of cobalt sulfide based HNs, the obtained Co3S4‐MoS2 heteronanoplates (HNPls) show remarkable performance in hydrogen evolution reactions (HER) under alkaline media. This synthetic methodology provides a unique design strategy to control the crystal structure and fills the gap in the study of heterogeneous materials on CE reaction over phase engineering that are otherwise inaccessible.

Composition analysis of β-(In x Ga1-x )2O3 thin films coherently grown on (010) β-Ga2O3 via mist CVD

ABSTRACT This study investigates the compositional analysis and growth of β-(In x Ga1-x )2O3 thin films on (010) β-Ga2O3 substrates using mist chemical vapor deposition (CVD), including the effects of the growth temperature. We investigated the correlation between In composition and b-axis length in coherently grown films, vital for developing high-electron-mobility transistors and other devices based on β-(In x Ga1-x )2O3. Analytical techniques, including X-ray diffraction (XRD), reciprocal space mapping, and atomic force microscopy, were employed to evaluate crystal structure, strain relaxation, and surface morphology. The study identified a linear relationship between In composition and b-axis length in coherently grown films, facilitating accurate composition determination from XRD peak positions. The films demonstrated high surface flatness with root-mean-square roughness below 0.6 nm, though minor relaxation and granular features emerged at higher In compositions (x = 0.083) at the growth temperature of 750°C. XRD results revealed that lattice relaxation were observed at a growth temperature of 700°C despite low In composition. In contrast, at 800°C, the In composition was higher than at 750°C, and coherent growth was achieved. The surface morphology was the flattest at 750°C. These findings indicate that the growth temperature plays a crucial role in the mist CVD growth of β-(In x Ga1-x )2O3 thin films. This study offers insights into the relationship between In composition and lattice parameters in coherently grown β-(In x Ga1-x )2O3 films, as well as the effect of growth conditions, contributing to the advancement of ultra-wide bandgap semiconductor device development.

Tuning Crystal Morphology in MOFs for Improved Hydrogen Storage

Tuning Crystal Morphology in MOFs for Improved Hydrogen Storage

Synthesis and structural identification of 3,6-Bis(3,5- dimethylpyrazol-1-yl)-1,2,4,5-tetrazine (BDT)

3,6-Bis(3,5-dimethylpyrazol-1-yl)-1,2,4,5-tetrazine (BDT) has emerged as a key intermediate for accessing other promising tetrazine-based high-energy-density compounds. The study presented the step-by-step process of synthesizing BDT while thoroughly analyzing and investigating its crystal structure. The chemical structure of BDT was characterized using spectroscopic techniques such as FT-IR, 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR, and data from PXRD and CCDC 254069. BDT was analyzed using various theoretical techniques, such as 2D fingerprint and Hirshfeld surface. The morphology of the BDT crystals was evaluated through optical microscope images. The results show that BDT crystallizes in a monoclinic space group P21/c, with four molecules per unit cell (Z=4) with the calculated lattice parameters as follows: a = 11.37 Å, b = 16.67 Å, c = 7.74 Å. The proportion of interactions of N...H and H...H of the total Hirshfeld surface area of BDT were 31.9% and 45.7%, respectively. ESP's maximum negative and positive values are -212.9 kJ.mol-1 and 65.6 kJ.mol-1, respectively.

Interface-driven microwave absorption enhancement in Mn-optimized Co2FeAl1-xMnx Heusler alloys

To address the urgent need for efficient and stable electromagnetic wave absorbing materials for electromagnetic interference (EMI) protection, we synthesized Co2FeAl1−xMnx Heusler soft magnetic alloys using a high-energy planetary ball milling method. We comprehensively analyzed their structural characteristics, surface morphology, magnetic properties, and electromagnetic parameters to explore their potential in electromagnetic wave absorption. The results show that incorporating manganese (Mn) significantly changes the alloys' crystal structure, surface morphology, and magnetic properties, greatly enhancing their wave absorption performance. The Mn doping specifically alters the surface morphology, which plays a crucial role in influencing the wave absorption characteristics of the Heusler alloys. When the Mn content increased to 25 %, the sample exhibits superior wave absorption, achieving the maximum reflection loss of −44.83 dB at 13.68 GHz with a thickness of 1.5 mm and an effective absorption bandwidth of 5.52 GHz. With a significant increase in the aspect ratio and noticeable changes in surface morphology, the sample with 75 % Mn content shows exceptional performance with an effective absorption bandwidth of 5.68 GHz, representing the highest effective absorption bandwidth in single-phase Heusler alloys. The Mn doping strategy effectively improves the material's impedance matching by adjusting its permittivity and permeability, facilitating multiple polarization relaxation mechanisms and significantly enhancing the alloys' electromagnetic wave absorption efficiency. Our study provides detailed experimental data for optimizing the electromagnetic wave absorption characteristics of Heusler alloys, verifies their practical application potential, and paves the way for developing new high-performance electromagnetic wave absorbing materials.

Palaeobiological and geochemical aspects of reptilian coprolites from a Maastrichtian Deccan volcano-sedimentary intertrappean deposit of central India

Cretaceous-Paleogene coprolite (fossilized faecal matter) records are significant in terms of providing direct palaeobiological evidence (from inclusions) in order to understand the diet of producer animal(s). In the past >150 years, research investigations (in India) have focussed on the Maastrichtian Type-A coprolite morphotype. Consequently, little information is available on the overall assemblage of Indian Maastrichtian vertebrate coprolites in terms of their morphological diversity, chemical composition, biotic-abiotic inclusions in the context of producer linkage(s) and geographic distribution within the Deccan volcano-sedimentary infra- and intertrappean deposits of India. Therefore, we present a detailed record of a coprolite assemblage from the Maastrichtian intertrappean deposits of Lotkheri, central India. This coprolite assemblage comprises five morphotypes based on their geometry, surface, and internal textures. Morphological considerations and biotic inclusions suggest that reptiles were the most likely producers of these ichnofossils. The associated faunal remains of reptiles (mainly chelonians and crocodilians) support this hypothesis. Dentalites or bite traces of Garfish (genus Lepisosteus) observed on the external surface of a few coprolite specimens (studied herein) are a rarity in the global fossil records. The analytical evidence confirm the phosphatic composition of the coprolites with the unique presence of three distinct morphologies (i.e. spherical, rods, and needles) of apatite crystals. Finally, we provide the chemical nature and plausible mechanism of apatite crystal formation via the chemical processes undergoing during the biomineralization of these crystals observed within coprolites.

Enhanced UV photodetector using Mg-doped ZnO sub-micro tube films synthesized through laser-assisted chemical bath growth

This study presents the fabrication of MgxZn(100-X)O thin films (TFs) with Mg concentration levels (x) of 0.5 at%, 1.0 at%, 1.5 at%, and 2.0 at% on glass substrates using the novel laser-assisted chemical bath growth (LACBG) method, aimed at investigating their photo-response for potential UV photodetector applications. Utilizing a continuous wave semiconductor laser with a 444.5 nm wavelength, 1 W power, and 6 min of irradiation, the LACBG method successfully produced high-quality Mg-doped ZnO TFs. These films were deposited on glass substrates coated with silver (Ag) to serve as electrode contacts for constructing a metal-semiconductor-metal (MSM) UV photodetector. The structural, optical, and electrical properties of the TFs were thoroughly analyzed. X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were employed to examine the crystal microstructures and surface morphologies, revealing vertically aligned hexagonal symmetrical sub-micro tubes. In contrast, energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis confirmed successful Mg incorporation into the ZnO lattice. UV–visible absorbance spectra indicated a blue shift in the absorption edge and increased band gap energy from 3.24 eV to 3.67 eV with rising Mg content. The UV photodetectors, particularly those with 2.0 at% Mg-doped ZnO TFs, demonstrated significantly enhanced UV responsiveness attributed to optical confinement, high surface-to-volume ratio, and superior structural quality. Performance metrics for the 2.0 at% Mg-doped ZnO TFs included a responsivity of 10.60 A/W, external quantum efficiency of 34.10, specific detectivity of 2.25 × 107 Jones, noise equivalent power of 5.34 × 10−11 W, rise time of 86.9 ms, and decay time of 324.4 ms. These findings underscore the potential of Mg-doped ZnO TFs for high-performance UV photodetection applications. The novelty of this study lies in utilizing LACBG to achieve high-quality Mg-doped ZnO TFs, offering a cost-effective, low-temperature method that enhances UV photodetector performance.

Effective removal of Pb(II) ions using Fe3O4/MgO adsorbent: A comprehensive study  

The effective removal of heavy metal ions, particularly Pb(II), from contaminated water sources remains a pressing environmental concern. This study explores the potential of Fe3O4/MgO nanocomposites as an efficient adsorbent for selective Pb(II) removal. The Fe3O4/MgO nanocomposite was synthesized using a controlled sol-gel method and characterized using various techniques. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis confirmed the presence of cubic MgO and cubic Fe3O4. Pb(II) adsorption induced a crystallographic transformation, forming hexagonal Mg(OH)2 crystals, indicating interaction with the adsorbent. Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) analysis revealed pyramid-like and irregular crystal morphologies. Pyramid-like structures provided a larger surface area and active sites for effective Pb(II) interaction, while irregular crystal particles, representing magnetic Fe3O4, contributed to stability and dispersibility. Vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM) results confirmed superparamagnetic behaviour with a saturation magnetization of 32.02 emu g-1, indicating potential for magnetic separation and recovery in various wastewater treatment applications. Adsorption experiments utilized optimized conditions: an initial concentration of 600 mg L-1, adsorbent dosage of 0.25 g L-1, pH of 7, and 120 minutes of reaction time. The Fe3O4/MgO nanocomposite exhibited exceptional performance with a remarkable 99.98% removal efficiency and a high adsorption capacity of 2399.44 mg g-1. These impressive results underscore the outstanding adsorption potential of the nanocomposite. Adsorption kinetics followed the pseudo-second-order model (R2 = 0.99), confirming suitability for Pb(II) removal. The Freundlich model indicated a heterogeneous surface with different adsorption sites. Overall, the Fe3O4/MgO nanocomposite exhibits potential as a cost-effective, environmentally friendly adsorbent for removing Pb(II) ions, providing a promising solution for water purification and environmental remediation.

Dy3+ doped Zn0.66Mg0.3Al2O4 nanophosphor for high dose radiation thermoluminescence dosimetric applications

Zinc Magnesium Aluminate doped with Dysprosium (Zn (1-x-y) Mg(y)Al2O4:x Dy (x=0.04 and y=0.3 mol%)) was prepared using the solution combustion synthesis method. The prepared phosphor was characterized using energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, and Fourier transform infrared, respectively, to study crystal structure, surface morphology, and vibrational properties. The thermoluminescence peak temperatures were 250°C, 248°C, and 246°C at irradiating doses of 600–1000 Gy, respectively. Through the computation of the activation energy (E), order of kinetics (b), and frequency factor (s−1), the kinetic parameters were assessed using the TL glow curve. It is observed from the TL dose-response curve that the intensity rises nearly linearly for all doses between 600 and 1000 Gy. Nanophosphor Zn0.66Mg0.3Al2O4:0.04Dy shows almost linear dose-response for a dose range of 600–1000 Gy and an optimum activation energy (E) of 0.93–0.97 eV, which makes it suitable for high-dose radiation thermoluminescence dosimetric applications.

Formation of flake-like DAAF crystals with tunable size realized on a microfluidic platform for binder-free initiator explosives

Flake-like energetic crystal has a great potential to achieve initiator explosive with high reactivity, low initiation threshold, high safety, and facile post-processing, but it has been limited for 3,3′-diamino-4,4′-azoxyfurazan (DAAF) by the difficulties in controlling crystal morphology. Here reported is a microfluidic preparation of flake-like DAAF crystals (f-DAAF) with tunable size by combined effect of the adding of facet-controlling agent (nigrosin alcohol soluble) and tuning of the external crystallization conditions. The results show that the crystal system of f-DAAF belong to monoclinic system, the (−201) facet is the largest exposed face. The f-DAAF possess high crystallinity, tunable flake aspect ratio from 6.15 to 66.8 and specific surface area from 2.57 to 5.67 m2·g−1. Molecular dynamics simulations were performed to investigate the selective interactions between the two molecules (facet-controlling agent and solvent) and different crystal faces of DAAF in a real experiment environment. Combined with the experimental results, a possible growth mechanism of the flake-like morphology was discussed. It is found that the f-DAAF not only possess lower impact sensitivity itself, but also can reduce the impact sensitivity of other explosives with high impact sensitivity. The electric explosion derived flyer initiation experiments show that the initiation sensitivity of f-DAAF is much lower than that of raw DAAF in micron size, and comparable to that of ultrafine DAAF. This work demonstrates the promising application potential of f-DAAF as high-performance initiator explosives with low initiation threshold and high safety, and also provides an effective way for their preparation.

In Situ Stimulus Response Study on the Acetylene/Ethylene Purification Process in MOFs.

Efficient removal of acetylene (C2H2) impurities from polymer-grade ethylene (C2H4) in a simple, clean manner remains a challenging goal in industry. The use of porous materials such as metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) is promising for this aim but the acquisition of high purification performance is still hindered by few knowledge on the purification process because the previous conclusions were derived basically from the non-breakthrough tests or ignored the influence of structural difference (crystal structure, morphology, or defect). Here we propose an unprecedented in situ stimulus response strategy to minimize the influence of structural difference, obtain the gas-loading crystal structures of the same MOF before and after light or heat stimulation, directly observe the evolution of pore charge distribution and pore×××gas interactions under light/heat induction, and finally summarizes the favorable structure for highly efficient purification of C2H4. This study opens a new route to understand the relationship between the structure and separation performance for porous materials.

Green synthesis of novel Z-scheme SnS2/HAp nanocomposite using Ocimum tenuiflorum leaf extract and investigation of its photocatalytic activity.

The present study focuses on the green synthesis of a novel Z-scheme SnS₂/HAp photocatalyst using Ocimum tenuiflorum (tulsi) leaf extract as a stabilizing agent. This approach not only emphasizes sustainability but also adds value to waste by extracting hydroxyapatite (HAp) from Labeo rohita fish scales, addressing the challenge of their disposal. The synthesized photocatalyst was thoroughly characterized using a range of analytical techniques to evaluate its crystal structure, optical properties, morphology, and elemental composition. The photocatalytic activity of the SnS₂/HAp composite was assessed through the degradation of gentian violet (GV) dye, a representative organic pollutant. Various reaction parameters were optimized to enhance the degradation efficiency, and the photocatalyst's performance was further tested across different water matrices. Under optimal conditions, the SnS₂/HAp photocatalyst achieved a maximum photodegradation efficiency of 97.49% with a rate constant of 0.0494min- 1 for GV dye. Additionally, it exhibited an efficiency greater than 70% against other emerging pollutants via advanced oxidation processes (AOP). The enhanced photocatalytic activity was attributed to the formation of a Z-Scheme heterojunction between SnS2 and HAp, which enhanced the charge separation efficiency and delayed the charge recombination. The study also demonstrated the photocatalyst's remarkable reusability, maintaining high performance over five cycles and across various water environments. This highlights its potential as a sustainable solution for the removal of organic pollutants from aqueous streams. Finally, a Z-scheme electron transport mechanism is proposed to explain the photodegradation process of GV dye using the SnS₂/HAp photocatalyst.

In Situ Stimulus Response Study on the Acetylene/Ethylene Purification Process in MOFs

Efficient removal of acetylene (C2H2) impurities from polymer‐grade ethylene (C2H4) in a simple, clean manner remains a challenging goal in industry. The use of porous materials such as metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) is promising for this aim but the acquisition of high purification performance is still hindered by few knowledge on the purification process because the previous conclusions were derived basically from the non‐breakthrough tests or ignored the influence of structural difference (crystal structure, morphology, or defect). Here we propose an unprecedented in situ stimulus response strategy to minimize the influence of structural difference, obtain the gas‐loading crystal structures of the same MOF before and after light or heat stimulation, directly observe the evolution of pore charge distribution and pore×××gas interactions under light/heat induction, and finally summarizes the favorable structure for highly efficient purification of C2H4. This study opens a new route to understand the relationship between the structure and separation performance for porous materials.

Frozen dough steamed products: Deterioration mechanism, processing technology, and improvement strategies.

Fresh dough products lead to instability in product quality, high production costs, and more production time, which seriously affects the industrial production of the food industry. The frozen dough technology mitigates the problems of short shelf-life and easy deterioration of quality during storage and transportation. It has shown a series of advantages in large-scale industrialization, high-quality standardization, and chain operation. However, the further development of frozen dough is restricted by the deterioration of the main components (gluten, starch, and yeast) caused by freezing. This review summarizes the main production process of frozen steamed bread and buns, and the deterioration reasons for the main component of frozen dough. The improvement mechanisms of raw ingredients, processing technology, processing equipment, and additives on frozen dough quality were analyzed from the perspective of improving gluten network integrity and yeast freeze tolerance. From prefermented frozen raw to steamed products without thawing has become the preferred production process to improve production efficiency. Wheat flour mixed with other flour can maintain the gluten network continuity of frozen dough. The freeze tolerance of yeast was improved by treatment with yeast suspension, yeast cell encapsulation, screening hybridization, and genetic engineering. Process optimization and new technology-assisted fermentation and freezing effectively reduce freezing damage. Various additives improve the freeze resistance of the gluten-starch matrix by promoting protein cross-linking and inhibiting water migration. In addition, ice structural proteins and ice nucleating agents have been proven to change the growth morphology and formation temperature of ice crystals. More new technologies and additive synergies need to be further explored.

β-carotene and resveratrol loaded glycerol monostearate-based oleogels: Physicochemical characterization at low gelation concentrations

Oleogels are semi-solid systems that can function both as replacers of trans and saturated fats and/or as carriers of lipophilic bioactive compounds. However, bioactive compounds can affect the structure of the oleogel matrix and this effect depends on the properties of such compounds. Therefore, the aim of this study was to develop oleogels loaded with β-carotene (BC) or resveratrol (R), with low concentrations of glycerol monostearate (GMS, 2–5 wt%) and sunflower oil as organic solvent. The gels were characterized by polarized light microscopy, rheological measurements, differential scanning calorimetry, oil binding capacity and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. At higher GMS concentrations, stronger oleogels and higher temperatures associated with transitions (sol–gel/gel–sol and crystallization/melting) were observed. The incorporation of bioactive compounds modified the gelation behavior. BC weakened the oleogel structure during the transient molecular organization of GMS, whereas R increased the dynamic moduli. BC also caused slight oil release at lower concentrations, while R improved retention. The high hydrophobicity of BC may be disturbing the solubility balance of the system, while R has phenolic hydroxyl groups that may strengthen hydrogen bonds. However, there were no considerable changes in mechanical properties after storage. We hypothesize that the molecular organization of GMS over time may be masking the modifications that bioactive compounds cause in mechanical properties. In fact, changes in the structure were revealed, as the addition of BC or R changed the morphology of the three-dimensional network crystals. Thus, the results can contribute to the rational choice of system components using low concentrations of oleogelator, as the composition of the bioactive compound exerts influence on the modulation of lipid matrices.

Antiurolithic activity of Zaleya pentandra (L.) C Jeffrey in ethylene glycol-induced calcium oxalate crystal rat model; A scientific validation of traditional use for kidney stone prevention

Ethnopharmacological relevanceTraditional herbal remedies have been used for treating nephrolithiasis, but the relevant scientific evidence is limited. Zaleya pentandra (L.) C. Jeffrey is traditionally used for the prevention of kidney stones in various cultures. However, its efficacy has not been scientifically studied. Aim of the studyThis study aimed to investigate the antiurolithic activity of Zaleya pentandra, and validate its traditional used for preventing kidney stones. Materials and methodsThe crude ethanolic extract of Z. pentandra (Zp.Crd) was evaluated through in vitro and in vivo studies. In vitro experiments assessed its impact on crystal count and morphology in metastable calcium oxalate solutions. In vivo studies involved diuretic and ethylene glycol-induced calcium oxalate crystal formation in male Wistar rats. ResultsZp.Crd transforms calcium oxalate crystals from harmful calcium oxalate monohydrate (COM) to calcium oxalate dihydrate (COD). In vivo, Zp.Crd exhibited dose-dependent (30–300 mg/kg) diuretic activity in rats by significantly increasing urinary sodium (Na+) and potassium (K+) excretion, similar to the standard diuretic hydrochlorothiazide (HCT). In the urolithiasis model, Zp.Crd exhibited dose-dependent antiurolithic effects by reducing kidney crystals and significantly altering lithogenic factors induced by ethylene glycol, including crystalluria, oxaluria, calcium, creatinine, and urea, in the urine and serum of treated rats. Zp.Crd also exhibited antioxidant effects, effectively combating oxidative lithogenic stress in rats. ConclusionZp.Crd has been shown to demonstrate antiurolithic activity against CaOx stones through CaOx crystal inhibition, diuretic activity, antioxidant properties, hypocalciuric effects, and hypercitrauric actions. The findings underscore Zp.Crd's potential as a viable alternative or supplemental therapy to current urolithiasis treatments, paving the door for further clinical trials and its inclusion into modern medical practices.