Powder Samples Research Articles

Einstein frequency of individual chalcogen bonds in Cu(In,Ga)Se2 and Cu(In,Ga)S2: Indicator of diffusion property of Cu, In, and Ga atoms

Elucidating the characteristics of the Cu-Se, In-Se, and Ga-Se bonds in chalcopyrite-type Cu(In,Ga)Se2-based semiconductors can aid the design and fabrication of highly efficient thin-film photovoltaic devices. In this study, we used extended X-ray absorption fine structure (EXAFS) analyses to evaluate the characteristics of chemical bonds in Cu(In,Ga)Se2 and Cu(In,Ga)S2 powder samples at low temperatures (10–300 K). The temperature dependence of the structural and vibrational disorder (Debye–Waller factor) provides the Einstein temperature of an individual bond in Cu(In,Ga)Se2-based materials. The analyzed Einstein temperature, which is proportional to the Einstein frequency, increased in the order of Cu–Se(S) < In–Se(S) ≤ Ga–Se(S), and the S-containing bond had a higher Einstein temperature than the corresponding Se-containing one. We also analyzed the effect of the Ga/(Ga + In) ratio on the Einstein temperature of each chemical bond. The force constant of the oscillator (i.e., the bond) was determined from the Einstein frequency using the reduced mass of the constituent atoms. The obtained bond properties were found to correlate with the diffusion characteristics of the constituent atoms in CuInSe2-based solar cell materials.

Investigation on nutritional compounds and toxic elements in dietary supplements from young green barley (Hordeum vulgare L.)

BackgroundYoung green barley is rich in nutrients and bioactive substances and hence is used for dietary supplement production. However, polluted environment and the use of pesticides can lead to the contamination of raw plant material. Purpose of the study1) determination of the young barley ingredients considered beneficial to the body (antioxidant activity, total polyphenols, phenolic acids, sodium, potassium, magnesium, calcium, iron, manganese, zinc); 2) assessment of the potential risk to human health posed by contaminants (pesticides, polycyclic aromatic compounds (PAHs), arsenic, cadmium, mercury, lead). Materialsdietary supplements containing green barley in a form of tablets, powders and juices. MethodsUltraviolet-visible (UV–Vis) spectrometry (determination of antioxidant activity and total polyphenols), atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS; used for element determination), liquid chromatography (phenolic acids, some pesticide analysis); gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (GC–MS; pesticide and PAH determination). Main findingsthe young barley powders were rich in macro- and microelements, particularly Fe and Mn, and could meet up to 20 % of the human requirements. However, they were also considerably contaminated with heavy metals and imidacloprid. The maximum levels established in European Union for examined substances were exceeded in the case of imidacloprid (6 samples of barley powders: P1, P2, P7-P10), PAH4 sum (one sample of barley powder - P10), and mercury (2 samples of barley powders: P6 and P12, 3 samples of tablets – T1, T2, T14). Calculated risk assessment also indicated that regular consumption of these dietary supplements could pose a significant health risk in case of arsenic. Conclusionsthe research suggests that although young barley powders exhibit a substantial amount of macro and microelements, and additional bioactive ingredients they may also be a potential source of some harmful substances such as heavy metals or pesticide residues.

Comparing the Photocatalytic Activity of Suspended and Floating Ag-decorated TiO2 for Dye Removal

We proposed a two-step synthesis process to fabricate floating TiO2 and Ag-decorated TiO2 (Ag/TiO2) photocatalysts. In the first step, an ultrasound-assisted sol-gel method followed by spray drying was adopted to synthesize powder photocatalysts. Next, the powder samples were immobilized onto a floating polyurethane foam (PUF) support with an ultrasound-assisted impregnation method. The photocatalytic activity of TiO2 and Ag/TiO2 was evaluated to remove methyl orange (MO) as a dye pollutant in two suspended and floating photocatalytic systems. Ag decoration on TiO2 improved the optical and textural properties by narrowing the bandgap energy to 2.9 eV and increasing the surface area from 10 m2/g to 30 m2/g. Ag/TiO2 exhibited higher photocatalytic activity compared to TiO2 for MO removal, which was 98% for suspended and 95% for floating catalysts under simulated sunlight irradiation. In addition, floating photocatalysts exhibited higher photocatalytic activity over five cycles of reuse. Floating Ag/TiO2@PUF maintained 89% of its initial photoactivity, while suspended Ag/TiO2 lost 50% after the five cycles. Moreover, we investigated the effect of operating conditions on the photocatalytic performance of floating Ag/TiO2@PUF. Optimal conditions for the complete removal of MO below detection limits were obtained as follows: Ag/TiO2@PUF loading = 0.4:200 g/mL, initial MO concentration = 5 mg/L, time = 90 min, and pH = 4 under simulated sunlight irradiation. This study highlights the potential of floating photocatalyst systems as a sustainable, reusable, and scalable approach for wastewater treatment, addressing challenges in catalyst recovery and efficiency under real-world conditions.

A novel PVDF film containing g-C3N4@MOF composite for efficient photoreduction of Cr(VI) under visible light

In this study, g-C3N4 was successfully synthesized and combined with MIL-88A to form a composite material (g-C3N4@MIL-88A composite, abbreviated as CNM). With the aid of the phase inversion method, CNM-PVDF composite films were synthesized, integrating various functional components. The CNM Z-scheme heterojunction efficiently harvests visible light, enhances interfacial separation, and suppresses the recombination of photogenerated charge carriers, resulting in significant photoreduction of Cr(VI) (94.01%). However, CNM composites in powder form tend to aggregate without stable support, complicating separation and recycling processes. To address this issue, PVDF is used to immobilize the photocatalyst. The results demonstrate that CNM-PVDF films exhibit superior photocatalytic reduction activity towards Cr(VI), achieving an efficiency of 90.4% under optimal conditions: 20 mg/L of Cr(VI), 3% CNM-PVDF, pH 3, and 180 min of irradiation. This study represents a significant advancement in developing and applying composite films, offering excellent photocatalytic performance. Unlike the powder sample (CNM), the CNM-PVDF composite can be easily recovered for four consecutive cycles, effectively overcoming the challenge of secondary pollution.

Using NMR linewidth broadening for magnetic characterization of micrometer-size particles in silicone matrix

Standard magnetization measurements on samples of small magnetic particles may generate conflicting results. We compare the mass magnetization of MgZn ferrite particles in a compressed bulk material and in dry powder and find that at low fields the values can differ by as much as 50%. We show here that embedding the particles in a silicone matrix and measuring the NMR linewidth in combination with simulations establishes a new method to evaluate the magnetization of the particles at different fields and temperatures. The NMR results agree with the direct magnetization measurements of the powder samples and the magnetization measurements of the particles embedded in silicone. This work is motivated, in part, by studies on using small magnetic particles as MRI temperature indicators, and we compare the effectiveness of these particles for low-field and high-field MRI thermometry.

Aerosol ignition in iron powder flames stabilized on a new type of jet-in-hot-coflow burner

A novel Jet-in-Hot-Coflow burner for the combustion of solid metallic particles is presented. This system features an electrically preheated coflow to ignite particles without the need for a pilot flame, mimicking exhaust gas recirculation, a method often used in industry to suppress NOx emissions and stabilize or control a combustion process. Two different iron powder samples with different particle size distributions were combusted, and their combustion products were analyzed using quantitative XRD to study the effect of particle size and interparticle heating on the ignition temperature of a suspension. It was found that a large fraction of the larger particles failed to ignite, probably due to insufficient heating during the residence time in the hot coflow. An increase in the dust concentration, expected to increase local temperatures and interparticle heating effects, did not significantly decrease the suspension ignition temperature for these powders.

Effect of a self-assembled 3D flower-like hierarchical architecture on the thermoelectric properties of Ag-doped Bi2S3.

Powder samples of Bi2S3 and Ag-doped Bi2S3 compounds were successfully synthesized via the solvothermal method. The synthesized powders were consolidated using the cold-press method and annealed at 300 °C for 3 h. The cross-sections of the consolidated samples exhibited a densely packed hierarchical architecture micro-flower-like morphology. The effect of Ag doping on the thermoelectric properties of the samples was systematically studied. The results showed that Ag doping had considerable effects on the morphology, leading to grain boundary scattering and point defects. The addition of 0.025% Ag led to an 81% enhancement in electrical conductivity (σ) at 550 K. However, a reduction in the Seebeck coefficient (S) was observed, and the power factor (S 2 σ) was enhanced. Owing to the scattering of all-scale phonons caused by the hierarchical architecture, a low thermal conductivity of 0.407 W m-1 K-1 at 483 K was obtained, which is one of the low values among the reported Bi2S3 materials. The maximum zT was obtained as 0.06 at 543 K for the 0.025% Ag-doped Bi2S3 sample.

Crystallographic Profiling, Core-Shell Electronic Configurations, and Investigations of Frequency-Dependent Dielectric Characteristics of Sb2O3-V2O5 Micro Ceramics

A series of V2-xSb2xO5-δ (Sb-V-O) ceramic powder samples with molar concentrations ranging from 0.05 to 0.08 were synthesized using a solid-state reaction method. Crystallographic analysis conducted through Rietveld refinement indicates that at a molar fraction of x=0.05, the orthorhombic V₂O₅ phase is observed. Conversely, at molar concentrations of x=0.06, 0.07, and 0.08, the orthorhombic phase of V2O5 and the tetragonal phase of SbVO4 are present simultaneously. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) was employed to ascertain the elemental oxidation states, revealing the presence of V5+, V4+, Sb3+ ions, and Sb0 metal atoms, along with O1s photoelectron peaks. The photoluminescence (PL) emission spectrum suggests transitions from a shallow donor level to the valance band. The room temperature AC conductivity and dielectric property results reveal a systematic decrease in the dielectric constant. The AC conductivity experimental data was accurately modeled using the Almond-West formalism, yielding high R2 values (0.9968–0.9986) and low chi-square errors (1.157×10⁻11–9.42×10⁻12) obtaining hopping frequency values for each composition (x = 0.05–0.08). AC conductivity (σac) decreased from 5.08×10⁻⁴ S/m to 2.40×10⁻⁴ S/m at 10 MHz, while DC conductivity (σdc) dropped from 7.22×10⁻⁵ S/m to 1.55×10⁻⁵ S/m. This reduction in conductivity is attributed to structural changes from Sb³⁺ substitution, which disrupts polaronic conduction by reducing the number of available O2⁻ ions and promoting SbVO₄ phase formation, hindering charge transport. The Sb₂O₃-V₂O₅ ceramics exhibit promising potential for energy storage applications, particularly in capacitors requiring high dielectric constants at low frequencies. At lower frequencies, grain boundaries inhibit conduction, enhancing dielectric constant values; at elevated frequencies, grain conduction predominates, lowering dielectric constant in accordance with Koop’s phenomenological theory, favoring applications in multi-layer ceramic capacitors. A notably higher dielectric loss factor (εr'') at low frequencies (10 Hz–1 kHz) indicates lossy behavior, beneficial for microwave absorption, while its stabilization above 10 kHz suggests minimal energy dissipation, ideal for high-frequency electronic and dielectric devices.

Fluoride Ion Conductor of Fluorosulfide with Double-Layer Honeycomb Structure

All-solid-state fluoride ion batteries (FIBs) have attracted considerable attention due to their high theoretical energy density and high safety compared with those of conventional lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) [1]. However, the practical application of FIB lacks suitable solid electrolyte with high ionic conductivity and wide electrochemical potential window at room temperature. In addition, most of the fluoride ionic conductors reported previously are limited to fluorides such as fluorite, tysonite-type, and perovskite-type structures [2]. Therefore, increasing the variations of crystal structures for fluoride ion conductors are expected.Fluorosulfides containing S2− and F− with largely different ionic radii are ideal for creating anion-ordered structures and expected to create fluoride ion conductors not found in reported fluoride[3]. In this study, we synthesized rare-earth fluorosulfides LaM 2F3S2 (M = Ba, Sr) and measured their ionic conductivity. Powder samples were weighed in stoichiometric ratio under an Ar atmosphere and pulverized by mortar mixing. The pelleted sample was placed in a Ta container, vacuum sealed using a quartz tube, and then calcined. The obtained samples were structurally evaluated by XRD measurement. For the evaluation of conductivity by the AC impedance method, the obtained powder was formed by isostatic pressing, sintered again, and Au electrodes were deposited on both sides as sintered specimens.In the crystal structure of these fluorosulfides, anion-ordered 2D crystal structures are formed, which cannot be achieved in a single anion compound. The F− conducting layer is a double-layer honeycomb structure, with F− conducting two-dimensionally via four-, six- and four-coordination sites. The conductivity at 100°C is in a order of 10-6 S cm-1, which is highest among mixed-anion compounds but is several orders of magnitude lower than previously reported single-anion compound. On the other hand, the activation energy was 0.50 eV, which is comparable to that of the fluorite-type structure Ba0.6La0.4F2.4. The material development of fluoride ion conductors using flurosulfide compounds is expected to increase crystal structure variations with fluoride-ion conduction pathways.

High Cycle Stability of Zinc Anode Battery Using Ni-Co Layered Double Hydroxide Cathode

The current storage battery market is dominated by water-based lead-acid batteries. Since lead-acid batteries are water-based, there is no risk of fire, and they are inexpensive and highly reliable storage batteries. In addition, lead, which is a toxic substance, can be used safely if recycled, so it has been used for a long time. However, in recent years, lead import regulations have become stricter and lead poisoning in developing countries has become a problem, and new storage batteries that can replace lead-acid batteries are required from a life cycle assessment perspective [1]. Therefore, in this study, we are considering a water-based storage battery that uses zinc as the negative electrode. Zinc is an abundant resource, non-toxic, and has a proven track record in practical batteries [2]. On the other hand, we are considering various materials for the positive electrode that can be driven by an aqueous electrolyte, but we have not yet found a material that achieves both a large capacity and good cycle performances. Therefore, the purpose of our research is to develop a positive electrode material that can be used successfully in combination with a zinc negative electrode. Here, we focused on the intercalation reaction, which performs redox by inserting and deintercalation ions without destroying the crystal structure, as a stable battery reaction. Furthermore, in order to realize the intercalation of hydroxide ions in alkaline electrolytes, we investigated layered double hydroxide (LDH) as a material that can reversibly incorporate anions. In LDH, the layer consisting of divalent and trivalent metal ions is positively charged, and anions are inserted between the layers to compensate for the increased positive charge. Taking advantage of this property, hydroxide ions can move between the layers and function as a positive electrode, thereby achieving high cycle stability for zinc negative electrode batteries.We will explain how to prepare LDH samples. This time, we chose hydrothermal synthesis to create a homogeneous and highly crystalline sample. First, cobalt nitrate hexahydrate, crystals of cobalt nitrate hexahydrate, and hexamethylenetetramine as a precipitant were mixed in a molar ratio of 2:1:1 and dissolved in 25 g of water. The solution was placed in a PTFE container, which was sealed with a metal container, and the synthesis was performed at 220°C for 24 hours. The resulting precipitate was filtered and dried to create a powder sample. Crystal structure analysis and charge/discharge tests were performed on the prepared samples. Crystal structure analysis was performed using X-ray diffraction (XRD). In the charge/discharge test, the positive electrode was made by sandwiching 10 mg of LDH between foamed Ni current collectors. The negative electrode was created by applying zinc oxide as an active material to 10 mAh/cm² using a current collector made of a thin and uniform layer of zinc formed by plating on a mesh. A nonwoven fabric separator was placed on the positive electrode side of the LDH, and a cellophane separator was placed on the negative electrode side. The electrode stack was introduced into an acrylic cell, and a 30wt% KOH aqueous solution was added to complete the device. The measurement conditions were to charge at 100mAh/g with a current of 5mA, and then discharge to 1.0V with a current of 5mA.From the diffraction pattern of the XRD measurement, we were able to confirm peaks at positions 003 and 006, which are derived from LDH. Next, we conducted a charge/discharge test, and the results shown in Figure (a) were obtained. The discharge efficiency was approximately 98%, confirming reversible charge and discharge behavior. Furthermore, the voltage position is different from the Ni-Zn battery, which was tested at a SOC of 0.85% and a current rate of 0.5C. From this, it is possible that even the same nickel material is a substance like this. Furthermore, looking at the cycle characteristics shown in Figure (b), it is confirmed that while the capacity of Ni-Zn batteries decreases around the 60th cycle, LDH-Zn operates stably for more than 100 cycles. Ta. Based on this, we believe that it is possible to create a zinc anode battery that has both a large capacity and good cycle performances by using LDH.[1] Songsak Srianujata, LEAD-THE TOXIC METAL TO STAY WITH HUMAN, The Journal of Toxicological Sience, Vol.23, Supplement II, (1998), 237-240[2]Wenxu Shang, Wentao Yu, Yongfu Liu, Ruixin Li, Yawen Dai, Chun Cheng, Peng Tan, Meng Ni，Rechargeable alkaline zinc batteries: Progress and challenges，Energy Storage Materials, 31, (2020), 44-57 Figure 1

3D characterisation of metal powders for additive manufacturing using Nano-CT and deep learning

ABSTRACT The geometrical properties of metal powders, the main raw material in additive manufacturing processes, can have a significant impact on the quality of the parts produced. Therefore, it is essential to characterise these powders effectively. Nano-computed tomography (Nano-CT) technology, with its high-resolution 3D measurement capability, is ideally suited to measure the geometrical characteristics of tiny powders. However, the current CT testing methods for metal powders has two main drawbacks. Firstly, it does not take into account the effect of particle adhesion. Second, it cannot achieve high-precision measurements of the internal pores of powders. To address these limitations, we propose a novel testing method for metal powders that utilises Nano-CT technology. The method first obtains highly dispersed powder samples through a specially sample preparation technique. Then, an improved U-shape networks with multi-level supervision are proposed to achieve high-precision segmentation of the internal pores of the powder. Ultimately, this paper achieves high-precision 3D characterisation of metal powders.

Unveiling the Contamination of Thiocyanate, Perchlorate, and Chlorate in Edible Microalgae: Detection, Distribution, and Risk Assessment in Sustainable Food Sources.

With the growing interest in microalgae as a sustainable food source, concerns about potential chemical contaminants in these products have emerged. In this study, a sensitive and reliable LC-MS/MS method was developed for the simultaneous detection of thiocyanate, perchlorate, and chlorate in edible microalgae samples. The method was validated with excellent linearity (R2 > 0.998), low detection limits (LOD: 1-8 μg/kg), quantification limits (LOQ: 4-26 μg/kg), and high recovery rates (75-101.9%) across different sample types. We collected a total of 77 microalgae products based on the available varieties in the market, including 43 Spirulina powder samples, 10 Chlorella powder samples, and 24 microalgae-based food products, sourced from key microalgae production regions in China. The contamination levels for thiocyanate (median: 1843.06-2645.72 μg/kg) and perchlorate (median: 23.29-31.4 μg/kg) were consistently quantitated in all samples, while chlorate concentrations showed greater variability (median: 18.94-160.21 μg/kg). Risk assessment revealed a significant dietary exposure risk to thiocyanate, with estimated daily intake (EDI) values exceeding the EPA's subchronic reference dose, whereas no significant risk was identified for perchlorate or chlorate. Monte Carlo simulations further supported the conclusion that perchlorate and chlorate posed minimal dietary risks, while thiocyanate exposure warrants concern. This study not only provides a foundational method for monitoring these contaminants in microalgae but also contributes critical data for future food safety standards and regulatory practices regarding edible microalgae products.

Determination of Minor and Trace Elements in Breast Milk of Lactating Mothers in Early Lactation from Tehran, Iran Using Neutron Activation Analysis Method.

This study aimed to evaluate the concentrations of both essential and non-essential elements in the breast milk of lactating mothers from Tehran, Iran, during the colostrum period. Neutron activation analysis (NAA) was used to measure the element concentrations. Additionally, the study assessed how these element concentrations were influenced by maternal factors such as age and economic status. Breast milk samples were collected from 95 lactating mothers, aged 18 to 41, during the early lactation phase, specifically within the colostrum period (2-7 days postpartum). The colostrum milk samples were freeze-dried, powdered, and irradiated at the Tehran Research Reactor for neutron activation analysis (NAA). This method was used to measure the concentrations of essential elements-calcium (Ca), potassium (K), sodium (Na), chlorine (Cl), and iodine (I)-as well as non-essential elements-aluminum (Al), bromine (Br), and rubidium (Rb). Descriptive statistics, including mean, median, maximum, minimum, and standard deviation, were calculated for each element. Statistical analyses, such as Pearson's correlation, were performed to assess relationships between the concentrations of various elements. Additionally, t-tests and p-values were employed to evaluate differences in element levels across maternal age groups (17-34 years vs. 35-45 years) and economic status (high/middle vs. low). The mean concentrations of the elements in dry breast milk powder samples were: Al = 6.9mg/kg, Br = 11.9mg/kg, Ca = 2.757mg/g, Cl = 7.836mg/g, I = 1.22mg/kg, K = 5.853mg/g, Na = 4.932mg/g, and Rb = 3.69mg/kg. Significant correlations were found between element pairs, such as Na-Cl, Br-Cl, Na-Br, Rb-K, and I-Cl. Maternal age significantly influenced bromine concentrations, with older mothers showing 22% higher Br levels (p = 0.038), while calcium levels were 15% lower but not statistically significant (p = 0.20). Maternal economic status significantly impacted calcium and potassium concentrations, with higher levels observed in mothers from better economic conditions (p = 0.02 and p = 0.025, respectively). This study highlights the elemental composition of breast milk samples of lactating mothers in Tehran and shows that maternal factors, such as age and economic status, can significantly influence the concentrations of specific elements in breast milk.

Bis(tricyclic) Aromatic Enes That Exhibit Efficient Fluorescence in the Solid State.

We report herein that bis(tricyclic) aromatic enes (BAEs) consisting of 6-6-6-membered frameworks such as acridine, xanthene, thioxanthene, and thioxanthene-S,S-dioxide act as a new class of organic luminophores that exhibit blue-to-green fluorescence in the solid state and in polymer film with good to excellent quantum yields. The BAEs were prepared by the palladium-catalyzed double cross-coupling reaction of phenazastannines or 10,10-dimethyl-10H-phenothiastannin with 9-(dibromomethylene)xanthene, 9-(dibromomethylene)thioxanthene, or 9-(dibromomethylene)-9H-thioxanthene-10,10-dioxide. Microcrystals or powder samples of the BAEs exhibited brilliant fluorescence with good to high quantum yields (Φ = 0.45-0.88). Furthermore, more efficient emission of blue-to-green light (Φ = 0.59-0.91) was observed for the BAEs dispersed in the poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) films. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations suggest that the photo-absorption of the (thio)xanthene moiety-containing BAEs proceeds via π-π* transitions, whereas the optical excitation of 10,10-dioxido-9H-thioxanthene moiety-containing BAEs involves an intramolecular charge transfer from the acridine/thioxanthene part to the electron-accepting 10,10-dioxido-9H-thioxanthene moiety.

Synthesis and investigation of optical properties and enhancement photocatalytic activity of TiO2–SnO2 semiconductor for degradation of organic compounds

Industrial wastewater treatment using UV irradiation in combination with oxidants or catalysts (TiO2) has attracted attention as a promising substitute for conventional methods. Studying the preparation and characterization of TiO2–SnO2 nanocomposites with different ratios, as well as their use in the enhanced photocatalytic degradation of acid red 37 dye in aqueous solution under UV irradiation as a model pollutant, are the goals of the research. The crystalline structures of the prepared nanomaterials were confirmed by XRD and the surface morphology of the samples was studied by TEM. The elemental compositions of the catalysts were confirmed by EDAX. The optical properties of the powder samples were analyzed with UV–Vis spectroscopy and their band gaps were estimated. The photocatalytic degradation was investigated using several advanced oxidation techniques using a batch photoreactor. The TiO2–SnO2 (90:10) nanocomposite showed the best degradation efficiency.

Antidiabetic Potential of Hylocereus Polyrhizus and Hylocereus Megalanthus Fruit Peel: An In vitro Study

ABSTRACT Background: Diabetes is a chronic metabolic condition affecting mainly carbohydrate metabolism. Dragon fruit is a commonly consumed fruit in Asia-pacific countries, with reported anti-diabetic potential. Objectives: The presents study explores the use of dragon fruit peel as an anti-diabetic supplement. Materials And Method: Fruit peels from two varieties (Red and Yellow) were evaluated for their ability to absorb glucose, inhibit glucose diffusion, and inhibit starch digestion using in vitro models. Result: Both red and yellow dragon fruit peel powder samples decreased starch digestion significantly compared to wheat bran and inhibited glucose diffusion, as indicated by the glucose dialysis retardation index (GDRI) values. Conclusion: The findings of the study indicate that both red and yellow dragon fruit peel possesses significant antidiabetic potential.

Phyotochemical Analysis of Bridelia scandens Willd a folk lore herbal drug a Review

Analytical study deals with the modern pharmaceutical analysis of the leaves of the drug. Here, organoleptic characters, physico-chemical parameters, UV spectrophotometric study, chromatographic study which were carried out for the standardization of both leaf powder and leaf oil samples are documented. The leaf powder sample of the plant yielded moisture, 10.1`%, ash, 6.65%, water soluble extractive 16.5% and methanol soluble extractive 22.3%. Whereas the leaf oil sample showed specific gravity 0.9650; refractive index 1.473; acid value 1.17; saponification value 241.4; ester value 240.23 and unsaponifiable matter 0.55%. UV spectrophotometric study of the leaf powder sample showed three absorptions peaks: the absorption being maximum at 218 nm followed by 272 nm and 666 nm. The spectra of the unsaponifiable matter of the leaf oil sample also showed three absorption peaks at 209 nm, 235 nm and 287 nm. Comparison of these two spectra reveals that their pattern is different. The chromatogram of both the samples obtained in day light showed 8 spots in the leaf powder sample and no spots in the other sample. On viewing under short wave UV radiation, the leaf powder sample revealed 3 spots and the other sample 2 spots. Among the spots the spot at Rf 0.66 was present in both the samples. After exposing to Iodine vapour almost all the spots viewed in day light were revealed in the first sample and 5 spots were found in the second sample. On spraying with vanillin sulphuric acid 6 spots were revealed in leaf powder sample and 5 spots in second sample. Among these 2 spots at Rf 0.46 and 0.66 were common in both the samples.

Update Granada–Amsterdam Light Scattering Database

We present an update to the Granada–Amsterdam Light Scattering Database (https://scattering.iaa.es/), which includes experimental data from both the IAA-Cosmic Dust Laboratory in Granada and the Amsterdam light scattering setup. The updated version features an expanded collection of samples and a more user-friendly interface. We have extended the size range of our mineral samples to mm-cm-sized single particles. Additionally, we have added the diffuse reflectance spectra of some of our powder samples and, from these spectra, obtained the corresponding refractive indices (200 nm–2000 nm). We have also incorporated synthetic scattering matrices defined across the entire scattering angle range (0° to 180°) for most of the powder samples contained in the database. Data in the database are freely available under the request of citation of this paper and the paper in which the data are published.

RECo-containing metal-organic frameworks based on 3-hydroxyisonicotinic acid: Proton conduction and magnetism

Three heterometallic metal-organic frameworks, namely, {RE2Co3L6(H2O)6}n (RE = Gd (1), Dy (2), Y(3)), have been hydrothermally synthesized based on rare-earth (RE) and transition metal ions and the organic ligand of 3-hydroxyisonicotinic acid (H2L). Single-crystal X-ray diffraction reveals that compounds 1‒3 are isomorphic and features three-dimensional (3D) porous structure. In compound 1, the Gd3+ ion is located in the C3 axis, and every two propeller-like {GdCo3} units are capped up and down to a {Gd6Co6} ring through twelve L2‒ ligands, giving rise to the formation of the cavities. Notably, three compounds display high thermal stability determined by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and good water stability proved by the well-matched of PXRD curves before and after soaked three samples in water for three days. AC impedance measurements exhibit the proton conductivities of compounds 1‒3 with powder samples are distinctly temperature and humidity dependent, and the values can reach 3.38×10‒5, 1.91×10‒5, and 2.23×10‒5 S cm‒1 at 98% RH and 338 K, respectively. Moreover, compounds 1‒3 display antiferromagnetic behaviours, and the magnetocaloric effect (MCE) study indicates that the entropy change (−ΔSm) of compound 1 is 7.1 J kg−1 K−1 at 7 K and 7 T. Compound 2 exhibits the slow magnetic relaxation behaviour.

An assessment of the prevalence of Aflatoxin M1 level in milk and milk powder based on high performance liquid chromatography and dietary risk assessment

Milk is susceptible to Aflatoxin M1 (AFM1) contamination, mainly through consumption of contaminated animal's feed. The natural occurrence of aflatoxin M1 (AFB1) has been surveyed in samples of milk and milk powder. Samples collected from different regions of Saudi Arabia during the period from 2013 to 2021 were subjected to high-performance liquid chromatography analysis, and (AFB1) was quantified with detection limits of 0.5 µg/kg. The Saudi Food and Drug Authority has taken strong actions to limit AFM1 contamination, increase aflatoxin control, and modify the regulations. A study analyzed 363 randomly collected milk samples (168 milk, 195 milk powder) from Saudi Arabia using LC-MS/MS. Out of the 363 samples, 20 were positive for AFM1, with 343 were within the limits. One out of the 168 milk samples and 19 out of the 195 milk powder samples exceeded the limits, with seven originating from Saudi Arabia. The highest AFM1 concentration (3.97 µg/kg) was found in the Saudi samples. Saudi Arabia's mycotoxin regulations significantly reduced AFM1 contamination in milk, which is not considered a serious health hazard.