Variations In Chemical Composition Research Articles

Seasonal Variations in Chemical Composition and Antibacterial and Antioxidant Activities of Rosmarinus officinalis L. Essential Oil from Southwestern Romania

Our study reports for the first time, over a 12-month period, the seasonal variations in chemical composition and antibacterial and antioxidant activity of Rosmarinus officinalis L. essential oil (RoEO) from Southwestern Romania (Oltenia region). To analyze the constituents of RoEO, a comprehensive gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) method was employed. The analysis aimed to identify and quantify the various components by comparing their mass spectra with reference spectra from the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Library 2020. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values of Staphylococcus aureus minimum were determined using the microdilution method (96-well plates). The antioxidant activity was analyzed using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS), and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) radical scavenging assays. This analysis provided a detailed profile of RoEO’s constituents, revealing significant monthly variations. Key compounds, such as camphor, eucalyptol, α-pinene, camphene, and α-myrcene, were quantified, alongside lesser-studied constituents like β-pinene, α-terpinene, linalool, terpinolene, and carvacrol. Comparisons were made with a reference sample from Tunisia. Oxygenated monoterpenes reach the highest concentration (56.82–66.94%), followed by monoterpene hydrocarbons (30.06–40.28%), sesquiterpene hydrocarbons (0.90–2.44%), and oxygenated sesquiterpenes (0.02–0.23%). Camphor was found in high concentrations ranging from 29.41% to 40.03%. 1,8-Cineole was another dominant compound, ranging from 13.07% to 16.16%, significantly lower compared to the Tunisian reference (52.77%). α-Pinene ranged from 11.36% to 19.33%, while α-myrcene ranged from 1.65% to 3.08%. Correlations between specific compounds and their bioactivity were explored to understand their contributions to the overall efficacy of RoEO. This comprehensive analysis provides valuable insights into the potential applications and seasonal variability of RoEO from Romania.

Pasteurized waste milk vs. milk replacer at the same crude protein:metabolizable energy ratio with different energy sources (fat vs. lactose) to pre-weaning Holstein calves: Effects on growth performance, feeding behavior, and health.

The improved growth performance of calves at weaning results from an effective pre-weaning feeding strategy. The type and pasteurization process of liquid feed are among the most variable feeding practices affecting calves' growth and health. In previous studies that compared waste milk (WM) vs. milk replacer (MR), little consideration has been given to the variations in chemical composition and feeding behavior between them, and there has been a lack of justification for the crude protein: metabolizable energy (CP:ME) ratio adopted. Hence, this study aimed to evaluate the effects of feeding pasteurized WM or MR differing in energy source (fat vs. lactose, respectively) with similar CP:ME ratio on intake, growth, feeding behavior, and health of newborn Holstein calves. Thirty-two male calves (4-d-old; 40.0 ± 0.58 kg BW) were assigned to the trial and randomly allocated to each liquid feed diet (WM or MR). Calves were housed in individual pens with free access to starter feed and fresh water. Calves were weaned on d 61 and assessed until d 101 as the postweaning period. WM-fed calves had greater total nutrient intake (DM, CP, EE, and ME), weight gain, final BW, skeletal growth parameters, and feed efficiency (d 30). Calves WM-fed sorted less against particles retained on the 2.36-mm sieve but more against particles retained on the sieve of 0.6 mm. In WM-fed calves, the sorting index decreased for feedstuff retaining on the bottom pan compared with MR-fed calves. Irrespective of the type of the liquid feed, all calves sorted for particles retaining on the sieve of 4.75 mm and the bottom pan, and against the particles that were retained on the sieves of 2.36- (MR-fed calves only), 1.18- and 0.6-mm. Starter feed nutrient intake and particle size intake from the sieves of 4.75-, 2.36-, and 1.18-mm increased in WM- vs. MR-fed calves. Eating rate and meal size but not meal frequency and length were greater in WM-fed calves, leading to higher pre- and post-weaning starter feed intake. Calves WM-fed spent less time eating and standing but more time ruminating and lying than MR-fed calves. Calves WM-fed had a lower likelihood of having elevated general appearance (score ≥2; hazard ratio = 2.79), diarrhea (score ≥3; hazard ratio = 1.35), and pneumonia (hazard ratio = 4.77). Calves WM-fed experienced shorter days with elevated general appearance, diarrhea, and pneumonia. Overall, feeding WM led to increased starter feed intake by boosting the eating rate and meal size, promoting greater growth than MR. Additionally, compared with MR, WM feeding increased time spent ruminating and lying and reduced susceptibility to diarrhea and pneumonia.

Sequential extraction and characterization of tea cell wall polysaccharides: Exploring the synergistic hypoglycemic potential with tea polyphenols via TGR5/GLP-1 pathway

Tea polyphenols (TP) and tea polysaccharides (TPS) are the two main hypoglycemic substances in tea. While the hypoglycemic activities of TPS and TP have been extensively reported, there remains a paucity of evidence regarding their synergistic regulation of hypoglycemic function. In this study, water-soluble polysaccharides and cell wall polysaccharides were firstly prepared from Yichang roasted green tea using sequential extraction method. Different types of tea polysaccharides, especially tea cell wall polysaccharides, exhibited diverse chemical compositions, molecular structures, and biological activities. The tea cell wall polysaccharides extracted with 4M NaOH (p4M-TPS) exhibited the highest inhibitory activity against different glycosidases. Furthermore, TPS (p4M-TPS) and TP (Epigallocatechin gallate, EGCG) were combined in different proportions to assess their hypoglycemic effect on hyperglycemic mice, and p4M-TPS-TP1:2 exhibited the most pronounced effect in promoting the expression of the TGR5/GLP-1 pathway to exert the synergistic anti-diabetic potential. This study firstly purified and characterized tea cell wall polysaccharide, and explored its potential hypoglycemic activity, thereby providing a valuable reference for the development of natural hypoglycemic functional products originating from tea active ingredients and their combinations, indicating the synergistic effect of tea active ingredients rather than just a single active ingredient.

Experimental Investigation of the Effect of Microstructure on Coalbed Methane Adsorption Characteristics Affected by Chemical Solvents.

Coalbed methane (CBM) reservoir modification based on chemical solvent treatment could change the coal microstructure, which further affects the adsorption capacity and flow characteristics of this clean energy. Coal samples were extracted by tetrahydrofuran (THF), carbon disulfide (CS2), and hydrochloric acid (HCl). Low-pressure nitrogen adsorption, carbon dioxide adsorption, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and methane isothermal adsorption test were adopted. The variations of pore structure and chemical composition in coal were evaluated by density functional theory, Barrett-Joyner-Halenda model, and peak fitting method, and their impacts on methane adsorption characteristics were studied. Results show that (1) the micropores less than 2 nm show a bimodal distribution. After acidification, micropore specific surface areas of coal samples I and II increase by 16.79% and 11.72%, respectively, while that of coal sample III-HCl decreases by 4.29% closely related to carbonate and silicate minerals in coal. Microporous specific surface areas of sample II-CS2 and III-CS2 affected by solvent rise by 4.28% and 4.17%, respectively. (2) Among the three original coal samples, the highest level of OH-OH hydrogen bonds content is observed. Solvents have a tendency to interact with -CH2 groups, which shorten the length of fat chains and increase the number of branched chains. THF tends to dissolve C-O-C groups and carbonyl C═O groups. Following CS2 treatment, samples II and III show 38.42% and 47.76% decrease in aromatic C═C area, respectively. (3) The methane adsorption capability in three coal samples is I > III > II. Except for sample I-HCl and sample III-THF, other coal samples have a lower methane adsorption capability than raw coal. Methane adsorption is reduced not just by a decrease in the number of micropores but also by aliphatic groups, aromatic structures, and oxygen-containing structures. Relevant results could deliver guiding significance for understanding methane adsorption and flow characteristics in coal after chemical solvent modification.

An Investigation into Empirical Equations for Predicting Density and Packing Density Parameters Across Diverse Chemical Compositions: A Theoretical Approach

This work investigates an empirical equation for predicting the density and packing density parameter for different chemical combinations. The empirical equation suggested by Makishima and Mackenzie (1973) was employed to calculate the values of Vi, which indicates the packing density parameter and the equation proposed by Inaba and Fujino (2010) was utilized to calculate the density values. To determine the density values accurately, Vi is essential. This research focuses on revisiting the density model established by Inaba and Fujino (2010) to increase its accuracy. It is found that the ionic packing ratio is approximately constant and independent of the chemical composition. For different categories of glasses, including silicate, tellurite, and phosphate. The density has been meticulously calculated. These calculations rely on compositional parameters such as molecular weight, molecular fractions, and notably, the ionic radius of various metals. Density values are fundamental to the theoretical examination of radiation properties in the Phy-x/PSD software. Utilizing advanced tools and software allows for the prediction of glass physical parameters, which are indispensable in the fields of optical devices and electronic materials. This research establishes a connection between the composition of oxide glasses and their density. Consequently, it enhances our understanding of the properties and behaviour of these materials.

Chemical Characterization and Antimicrobial Activity of Green Propolis from the Brazilian Caatinga Biome.

Green propolis, particularly from the unique flora of the Brazilian Caatinga biome, has gained significant interest due to its diverse chemical composition and biological activities. This study focuses on the chemical characterization and antimicrobial evaluation of Caatinga green propolis. Twelve compounds were isolated through different chromatographic techniques, including flavanones (naringenin, 7-O-methyleriodictyol, sakuranetin), flavones (hispidulin, cirsimaritin), flavonols (quercetin, quercetin-3-methyl ether, kaempferol, 6-methoxykaempferol, viscosine, penduletin), and one chalcone (kukulkanin B). Using liquid chromatography-quadrupole time-of-flight tandem mass spectrometry (LC-QToF-MS), a total of 55 compounds excluding reference standards were tentatively identified, which include flavonoids, phenolic acids derivatives, and alkaloids, with flavonols, flavanones, and flavones being predominant. Antimicrobial testing against pathogens revealed that the crude extract exhibited low inhibitory activity, against Gram-positive bacteria, including methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus faecium (VRE) (IC50: 148.4 and 120.98 µg/mL, respectively). Although the isolated compounds showed limited individual activity, a fraction containing sakuranetin and penduletin (Fraction 8) exhibited moderated activity against Cryptococcus neoformans (IC50: 47.86 µg/mL), while a fraction containing quercetin and hispidulin showed moderated activity against VRE (IC50: 16.99 µg/mL). These findings highlight the potential application of Caatinga green propolis as an antimicrobial agent, particularly against resistant bacterial strains, and underscore the importance of synergistic interactions between compounds in enhancing biological effects.

Use of Mineral Waste for the Production of Artificial Aggregates

Mineral waste represents the largest group of industrial waste, which constitutes a serious environmental and economic problem. This paper presents the phase and chemical susceptibility to leaching of coal mining wastes, steel and iron production slags, and non-ferrous metallurgical slags. These wastes, because of their properties, are used for the production of artificial aggregates. A detailed description of the slags’ properties (chemical and phase composition, technical characteristics, and releasability of constituents to the aquatic and soil environment) allows applications for such waste to be sought, which is beneficial for environmental and economic reasons. Coal mining wastes, slags from iron and steel production, and non-ferrous metallurgical slags are characterized by a variable chemical and phase composition, dominated by components with a relatively low degree of leaching, i.e., silicates, carbonates, sulphates, and intermetallic compounds. Therefore, these wastes are widely used for the production of artificial aggregates, perfectly meeting the requirements of the circular economy policy.

Variations in chemical compositions of titanite group minerals from ore skarnes in the Ladoga Lake Region (South Karelia, Russia)

Titanite, aluminium- and fluorine-enriched titanite, tin-bearing titanite and malayaite from ore skarns in the Ladoga Lake region were studied. Composition of these minerals from skarns with W-Zn-Pb-Bi (Latvasyrja, Jokiranta) and Sn-Zn-Cu-Fe-In (Pitkäranta Mining District) mineralization, related genetically to S-type and А-type granites, was analyzed. For the first time for ore deposits and occurrences in Karelia, there was detected titanite enriched in aluminum (Al2O3 5—7 wt%) and fluorine (~3 %). Isomorphic substitutions in titanite from skarns with different metallogenic specialization were considered. It is shown that the following isomorphic schemes are realized for studied titanite: (Al, Fe)3+ + F– ↔ Ti4+ + O2–; (Al, Fe)3+ + (OH)– ↔ Ti4+ + O2–, where Al ≥ Fe (skarns with W-Zn-Pb-Bi mineralization); and Sn4+ ↔ Ti4+ (skarns with Sn-Cu-Fe-Zn-In mineralization). The Sn-bearing titanite from Sn-bearing skarns nearly in all cases contains Fe, what it seems due to the high Fe# in rapakivi granites (containing biotite and other mafic minerals with Fe# 0.9) and the associated post-magmatic mineralization (columbite-(Fe), synchysite-(Fe), marmatite). The formation of titanite enriched in aluminum and fluorine was controlled by protolith and fluid compositions rather than temperature and pressure (≤500 ◦C, ≤5 kbar). Crystallization of this titanite in Jokiranta ore occurrences took place during a post-ore-forming process, potentially capable to the remobilization of base-metals ores.

Homogalacturonans and Hemicelluloses in the External Glands of Utricularia dichotoma Traps.

The Utricularia (bladderworts) species are carnivorous plants that prey mainly on invertebrates using traps (bladders) of leaf origin. On the outer surfaces of the trap, there are dome-shaped glands (capitate trichomes). Each such trichome consists of a basal cell, a pedestal cell, and a terminal cell. During the maturation of these external glands, there are changes in the cell wall of the terminal cell of the gland (deposited layers of secondary wall material). Thus, due to changes in the cell wall, these glands are excellent models for studying the specialization of cell walls. The main aim of this study was to check whether different cell wall layers in terminal gland cells have a different composition in the case of homogalacturonans (low-methylesterified HGs, fully de-esterified HGs, and galactan) and hemicelluloses (galactoxyloglucan, xyloglucan, and xylan). The antibodies were used against cell wall components (anti-pectins JIM5, JIM7, LM19, CCRC-M38, and LM5 and anti-hemicelluloses LM25, LM15, CCRC-M1, and CCRC-M138). The localization of the examined compounds was determined using immunohistochemistry techniques, Carbotrace 680, and Calcofluor White. Our study showed the presence of various components in the cell walls of external gland cells: methylesterified and demethylesterified homogalacturonans, galactan, xylan, galactoxyloglucan, and xyloglucan. In the terminal cell, the primary cell wall contains different pectins in contrast to the secondary wall material, which is rich in cellulose and hemicelluloses. We also found that the basal cell differs from the other gland cells by the presence of galactan in the cell wall, which resembles the epidermal cells and parenchyma of traps. A particularly noteworthy part of the cell wall functions as a Casparian strip in the pedestal cell. Here, we found no labeling with Carbotrace 680, possibly due to cell wall modification or cell wall chemical composition variation. We have shown that the apoplastic space formed by the cell walls of the terminal cell is mainly composed of cellulose and hemicelluloses (galactoxyloglucan and xyloglucan). This composition of the cell walls allows the easy uptake of components from the external environment. Our research supports the external glands' function as hydropotens.

Structural Optimization of Chalcogenide Thin Films for Enhancing the Threshold Switching Performance.

This study conducts a comprehensive investigation into the physical properties of germanium telluride (GeTe, GT) thin films and their associated electronic devices to establish fundamental relationships that are essential for achieving reliable threshold switching (TS) characteristics. Chemical composition variations in GT thin films significantly influence their crystallinity, atomic vibration modes, chemical binding status, bandgap, and distribution of electronic traps. The increase in the tellurium (Te) content results in elevated Urbach energy, subsequently reducing the effective bandgap energy. Excluding GT8, trap energy increases proportionally with increasing Te content. Correlating electrical properties with physical characteristics reveals key conditions necessary for stable TS behavior: maintaining amorphous crystallinity, optimizing the chemical composition of the GT layer, and ensuring an appropriate bandgap and trap energy. These findings underscore the importance of precise chemical composition control for reliable TS performance. Insights from this study can guide nanoscale analyses of bonding structures in Te-based binary TS systems and present opportunities for material optimization across various applications.

Assessing the processes behind planet engulfment and its imprints

Newly formed stars are surrounded by a protoplanetary disc composed of gas and dust, part of which ends up forming planets. During the system's evolution, some of the planetary material may end up falling into the host star and being engulfed by it, leading to potential variation in the stellar composition. The present study explores how planet engulfment may impact the chemical composition of the stellar surface and discusses what the rate of events with an observable imprint would be for Sun-like stars. We used data on the formation and evolution of 1000 planetary systems from the New Generation Planetary Population Synthesis (NGPPS) calculations by the Generation III Bern model to analyse the conditions under which planet engulfment may occur. Additionally, we used stellar models computed with Cesam2k20 (Code d’Evolution Stellaire Adaptatif et Modulaire) to account for how the stellar internal structure and its processes may affect the dilution of the signal caused by planet engulfment. Our results show that there are three different phases associated with different mechanisms under which engulfment events may happen. Moreover, systems that undergo planet engulfment are more likely to come from protoplanetary discs that are more massive and more metal-rich than non-engulfing systems. Engulfment events leading to an observable signal happen after the dissipation of the protoplanetary disc when the convective envelope of the stars becomes thinner. With the stellar convective layer shrinking as the star evolves in the main sequence, they display a higher variation of chemical composition. This variation also correlates with the amount of engulfed material. By accounting for the physical processes happening in the stellar interior and in the optimistic case of being able to detect variations above 0.02 dex in the stellar composition, we find an engulfment rate no higher than $20<!PCT!>$ for Sun-like stars that may reveal detectable traces of planet engulfment. Engulfment events that lead to observable variation in the stellar composition are rare due to the specific conditions required to result in such signatures.

The Effect of Chemical Composition on the Morphology of Pb/Zn-Containing Dust

Dust containing lead and zinc is a harmful contaminant, which causes serious harm to the natural environment and human health. At present, it is believed that the microscopic morphology of lead-zinc dust is intimately related to its biological toxicity. Chemical composition serves as a pivotal factor influencing the structural characteristics of dust. However, research on the impact of chemical composition variations on the microscopic morphology of dust containing lead and zinc remains inadequate. The particle size analysis reveals that as PbO content increases and ZnO content decreases, the particle size of the dust diminishes, but some samples exhibit a larger agglomeration structure. Combined with the results of the box number method, it is evident that at lower magnifications, an increase in PbO content leads to a decrease in image complexity and a loosening of aggregated structures. The similarity in pile shapes amplifies this trend, resulting in a decline in the box-counting dimension (D value) within the PbO/ZnO ratio range of 26.45 to 138, accompanied by an inverse change in the corresponding goodness of fit R-sq value. At the observation multiple of 30,000 times (30 K), smaller particles within the sample become visible, and the presence of relatively larger particles and complex sizes enhances the fractal characteristics of the sample, leading to a higher D value. Within the PbO/ZnO ratio range of 90/10 to 99/1, a coupling relationship exists between the chemical composition of the sample and the morphology of the dust. Specifically, the PbO/ZnO ratio exhibits a positive correlation with the D value. Conversely, the diversity of corresponding fractal features is negatively correlated with the D value. When the PbO content surpasses 99%, this correlation weakens, and the diversity of graphical representations displays an alternating pattern of growth and decrease. Notably, the D value and the goodness of fit (R-sq) of the D value are negatively correlated, indicating that as the complexity of the graph increases, the goodness of fit decreases.

Environmental Changes Recorded in Sedimentary Rocks in the Clay-Sulfate Transition Region in Gale Crater, Mars: Results From the Sample Analysis at Mars-Evolved Gas Analysis Instrument Onboard the Mars Science Laboratory Curiosity Rover.

The Curiosity rover explored the region between the orbitally defined phyllosilicate-bearing Glen Torridon trough and the overlying layered sulfate-bearing unit, called the "clay-sulfate transition region." Samples were drilled from the top of the fluviolacustrine Glasgow member of the Carolyn Shoemaker formation (CSf) to the eolian Contigo member of the Mirador formation (MIf) to assess in situ mineralogical changes with stratigraphic position. The Sample Analysis at Mars-Evolved Gas Analysis (SAM-EGA) instrument analyzed drilled samples within this region to constrain their volatile chemistry and mineralogy. Evolved H2O consistent with nontronite was present in samples drilled in the Glasgow and Mercou members of the CSf but was generally absent in stratigraphically higher samples. SO2 peaks consistent with Fe sulfate were detected in all samples, and SO2 evolutions consistent with Mg sulfate were observed in most samples. CO2 and CO evolutions were variable between samples and suggest contributions from adsorbed CO2, carbonates, simple organic salts, and instrument background. The lack of NO and O2 in the data suggest that oxychlorines and nitrates were absent or sparse, and evolved HCl was consistent with the presence of chlorides in all samples. The combined rover data sets suggest that sediments in the upper CSf and MIf may represent similar source material and were deposited in lacustrine and eolian environments, respectively. Rocks were subsequently altered in briny solutions with variable chemical compositions that resulted in the precipitation of sulfates, carbonates, and chlorides. The results suggest that the clay-sulfate transition records progressivelydrier surface depositional environments and saline diagenetic fluid, potentially impacting habitability.

Atomic Interaction S. aureus/Machined and Additive Manufacturing Ti-6Al-4V and Ti-35Nb-7Zr-5Ta Disks for Dental Implants.

The adhesion strength of a bacterial strain on a substrate influences colonization and biofilm development, so the biomolecular analysis of this interaction is a step that allows insights into the development of antifouling surfaces. As peri-implantitis is the main cause of failure of implant-supported oral rehabilitations and the dental literature presents gaps in the atomic bacteria/surface interaction, this study aimed to correlate the qualitative variation of roughness, wettability, chemical composition, and electrical potential of Ti-6Al-4V and Ti-35Nb-7Zr-5Ta (TNZT) disks obtained by machining (M) and additive manufacturing (AM) on the colonization and adhesion strength of S. aureus quantified by atomic force microscopy (AFM). The samples were evaluated for roughness, electrical potential, and S. aureus colonization and adhesion strength by specific methods in the AFM with subsequent analysis in the NanoScope software analysis, wettability by sessile drop method, and chemical composition by energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (EDX). Qualitative data were correlated with bacterial adhesion strength. The greater adhesion strength of S. aureus was observed in descending order for TNZT AM, TNZT M, Ti-6Al-4V AM, and Ti-6Al-4V M. This experimental invitro study allowed us to conclude that for the evaluated groups, the strength adhesion of S. aureus showed a linear relationship with roughness, and nonlinear for wettability, electrical potential, and S. aureus colonization on the surfaces evaluated. As for the two variation factors, type of alloy and manufacturing method, those that promoted the lowest bacterial adhesion strength were Ti-6Al-4V and M, possibly attributed to the synergistic modification of the evaluated surface properties. Thus, this study suggests S. aureus preferences for rough, hydrophilic surfaces with a greater electrical potential difference.

In-depth analysis of sintering, exposure time, and layer height (um) in LRS 3D printed devices with DLP

The technology of 3D printing, referred to as additive manufacturing, is widely acknowledged as a transformative innovation that has the potential to supplant traditional processing methods in numerous domains. The present study showcases a quantitative assessment of the mechanical properties of moon dust, also known as Lunar Regolith Simulants (LRS), printed through vat polymerization. In this study, we conduct a thorough investigation and explore the effects of layer height [LH] (LH = 10 μm, 20 μm, 30 μm, 40 μm, 50 μm, 60 μm]), exposure time [ET] (ET = 3000 ms, 5000 ms, 7000 ms, 11,000 ms), and sintering impact [1075 °C, 1082 °C, 1083 °C, 1085 °C, 1086 °C, 1087 °C, 1090 °C] on the mechanical properties of printed structures. Herein, we utilize a 55 % volume suspension of LRS to print rod and block configurations via digital light printing [DLP] that are subsequently consolidated through sintering in ambient air. This 55 % LRS via vat polymerization approach has not been previously reported. The morphology of the simulant powders exhibited irregular and angular features. Our experimental results show that a 30 um (LH) with (ET) 11,000 ms exhibits maximum compressive and flexural strength of 330 MPa and 100 MPa at 1085 °C. The sintering atmosphere greatly affects the microstructure, macroscopic features, and mechanical strength of 3D-printed LRS, which reveals diverse chemical compositions and underlying reaction mechanisms. This sintering process improves particle bonding, resulting in densification and reduced voids within the 3D-printed structure. It is essential to optimize the annealing parameters to achieve the desired strength while avoiding excessive sintering that may cause dimensional distortions or structural defects. This innovative approach opens new possibilities for future space exploration and extraterrestrial construction.

Evaluation of six phosphorus extraction methods for compliance testing of recycled P fertilizers

Phosphorus (P) recycling for fertilizer production addresses the dependency on phosphate rock and mitigates P losses to the environment. However, predicting plant-available P in recycled fertilizers is challenging due to their diverse chemical composition. This study aimed at identifying the most suitable P extraction method for fertilizer compliance testing, considering their correlation with actual fertilization efficiency, as well as their simplicity, throughput, recognition and cost. Studies on fertilizer P compliance testing often lack recommendations on minimum P extractability threshold values. Here, thresholds are calculated based on actual fertilization efficiency of a large, chemically diverse set of recycled P fertilizers, many of which are already marketed. Thirty recycled P fertilizers were extracted with H2O, neutral ammonium citrate (NAC), electro-ultrafiltration (EUF), ferrihydrite-filled membranes (iron bag; IB), sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3) and diffusive gradients in thin films (DGT). The mineral replacement value (MRV) of the fertilizer set was previously evaluated in three pot experiments at a fertilization rate of 50 mg kg−1 soil. MRV correlations with the extractions methods showed similar results for all besides H2O, which cannot be a reliable indicator for P availability. Fertilizers were classified as efficient or inefficient based on their MRV exceeding or falling below 60 % of the triple superphosphate reference value. The minimum P extractability threshold value (MPETV) for each method was based on the efficiency classification and it minimized the number of misclassified fertilizers. NAC, with a 60 % extractable minimum P threshold value, was the most adequate method for compliance testing, despite its overestimation of iron phosphate availability.

Variation in chemical composition of fresh and commercial Royal Jelly associated with international standards

The chemical composition of fresh (local) and commercial (imported) Royal Jelly (RJ) from Saudi Arabia was investigated. 10-hydroxydec-2-enoic acid (10-HDA), protein content, sugar profile, moisture content, pH, free acidity, electric conductivity (EC), and macro and micro-minerals were analyzed in both RJ groups. Most samples and about 50 % of fresh RJ samples showed 10-HDA and protein content percentages lower or higher than the international standard limits. Differences were significant (p < 0.0001) between fresh and commercial RJ samples in all tested parameters except moisture content. Furthermore, 29 percent of the commercial samples did not pass the 10-HDA standard limits. On the other hand, lactose, a non-RJ sugar, was detected in two commercial samples indicating some contamination or adulteration of these samples. The minerals Zinc (Zn), Iron (Fe), Copper (Cu), Aluminum (Al), Manganese (Mn), Phosphorous (P), Potassium (K), Magnesium (Mg), Sodium (Na), and Calcium (Ca) were detected in all samples. Zinc (Zn), Iron (Fe), Potassium (K), Magnesium (Mg), and Sodium (Na) were significantly higher in fresh RJ samples (P < 0.05). Sodium, potassium, and phosphorus demonstrated significantly higher occurrence in fresh RJ samples from Saudi Arabia and might be good candidates for its characterization. Although 10-HDA and protein ratios are important parameters of RJ authenticity, the current standards of both parameters (ISO,12824:2016) should be updated to cover occurrence limits worldwide. Moreover, mineral analyses might be useful to characterize RJ's originality and explore RJ's adulteration.

Harnessing the Phytochemistry Through Pesticidal Potential of Diverse Elsholtzia Species: A Path to Sustainable Agriculture.

This study investigates the phytochemical profiles and pesticidal activities of various Elsholtzia species, including E. ciliata, E. flava, E. fruticosa, and E. eriostachya, to discover their bioactive potential for sustainable pest management. Through comparative phytochemical analysis using GC-MS technique, key compounds in the essential oils were identified. The major components were thymoquinone (44.97 %) in E. ciliata, shisofuran (28.66 %) in E. flava, perillene (50.88 %) in E. fruticosa, and pinocarvone (42.41 %) in E. eriostachya. Despite variability in chemical composition, all species primarily contained oxygenated monoterpenes. The bioactivity of the oils was evaluated for their nematicidal and herbicidal bioassays. E. ciliata showed the highest egg hatching inhibition and juvenile mortality of M. incognita, while E. flava exhibited the lowest activity. For herbicidal activity, E. eriostachya achieved 96.70 % seed germination inhibition, 100 % root growth inhibition, and 95.56 % shoot growth inhibition. E. flava showed the lowest inhibition in germination, root length, and shoot length at 66.70 %, 81.56 %, and 85.28 %, respectively. The findings revealed significant variations in phytochemical composition and pesticidal efficacy, emphasizing the importance of species selection for pest management. This research highlights the bioactive potential of Elsholtzia species in sustainable pest management strategies.

Shaping Electronic Properties of Metal-Organic Frameworks for Energy Storage Applications

Metal-Organic Frameworks (MOFs) form through self-assembly between metal ions or clusters with multifunctional organic ligands carrying functional groups, resulting in intricate connected structures. Each constituent, whether metal nodes, connecting functional groups, or bridging organic ligands, imparts specific physical and chemical properties to the MOF, including band energy, charge transport characteristics, and photophysical behaviour. In addition, the crystalline structure of MOF defines the exciton transport and dynamic properties, [1] which are critical to evaluate in order to enhance the system’s performance when employed as electrode material or in storage applications including photonic, mechanical or thermal energy conversion. Hence, understanding the dynamic transport properties in MOFs is vital in order to develop real-world industrial-scale applications, where MOF film structures are particularly desired mainly because the pulverous nature of MOFs presents challenges, such as the gradual loss of active material that can undermine performance and conversion efficiencies.Our research aims to unravel the dynamic processes involved during photon- and mechanical energy storage in both, powdered MOFs and their film counterparts [2,3] for which an automated film-fabrication protocol has been developed (Figure 1). [4] We reveal that the efficiency and quantity of stored energy is intricately linked to factors including as the crystallite morphology and chemical composition. To elucidate these complex interdependencies and determine the timescales of dynamic processes during energy storage in crystalline MOFs, we utilize a diverse set of techniques available at facilities like the Elettra synchrotron and the free-electron laser FERMI in Italy. These techniques include time-resolved X-ray scattering, infrared and terahertz spectroscopy. Results show that the energy storage process of MOF powders can be accelerated from hours (>5 h) up to seconds (~6 sec) upon their fabrication as film structures, which additionally guarantee a fully reversible storage/release process initiated remotely. [2,3] Moreover, we show that the storage process rate can be tailored by adjusting the MOF's electronic properties through variations in chemical composition and thickness, [3] with implications for electrode materials and gas sequestration applications. [5]These findings provided valuable insights into energy storage dynamics in MOF systems, paving the way for a deeper understanding of similar or more advanced film systems and offering new avenues for research in this field.[1] Dincă M. and François Léonard, MRS Bulletin, 2016, 41, 854–857.[2] Klokic, S., Naumenko, D., Marmiroli B., Carraro, F., Linares Moreau, M., Dal Zilio, S., Birarda, G., Kargl, R., Falcaro, P., Amenitsch, H., Sci., 2022, 13, 11869-11877.[3] Klokic, S., Marmiroli B., Naumenko, D., Birarda, G., Dal Zilio, S., Velasquez-Hernandez, M.-J., Falcaro, P., Vaccari, L., Amenitsch, H., accepted in CrystEngComm, 2024.[4] Linares‐Moreau, M.; Brandner, L.; Kamencek, T.; Klokic, S.; Carraro, F.; Okada, K.; Takahashi, M.; Zojer, E.; Doonan, C.; Falcaro, P. Mater. Interfaces 2021, 8 (21), 2101039.[5] Klokic, S., Marmiroli B., Birarda, G., Holzer, P., Sartori, B., Asbaghi-NA, B., Dal Zilio, S., Vaccari, L., Amenitsch, H., submitted, April 2024. Figure 1

Optimized Cycling Stability of Single-Crystalline Na0.67Ni0.33Mn0.67O2 Cathode Material via Molten Salt Synthesis for Advanced Sodium-Ion Battery Applications

Recent advancements have highlighted the P2-layered Na0.67Ni0.33Mn0.67O2 (NNMO) cathode material as a leading candidate for next-generation sodium-ion batteries due to its superior specific capacity. Traditional solid-state synthesis methods, while straightforward and scalable, struggle with challenges such as achieving homogeneous atomic-level elemental distribution and mitigating the formation of intermediate phases during powder mixing. In contrast, the molten salt synthesis method offers a controllable and efficient alternative for producing uniform materials with varied chemical compositions and structures. In this study, we utilize sodium chloride as the molten salt flux, with Na2CO3, NiO, and Mn2O3 as reactants, to synthesize single-crystal MS-NNMO. This method yields an NNMO with an initial reversible capacity of 90.6 mAh g−1 at 0.1C across a voltage range of 2.0-4.2 V, demonstrating 88.5% capacity retention after 100 cycles. Long-term stability is further evidenced by an 83.9% capacity retention after 300 cycles at 1C. In full cell tests, MS-NNMO paired with a hard carbon anode shows 90.3% capacity retention after 200 cycles at 1C. Additionally, MS-NNMO exhibits exceptional bulk stability, with no impurity peaks detected after 1 hour of water exposure, underscoring its superior air stability. This work validates the molten salt method as an effective and scalable process for producing high-performance sodium-ion battery cathodes.