Abstract: A method and device for detecting cell vitality, i.e. determining whether cells are alive (vital) or dead (non-vital). The method includes detecting vitality of cells in a sample), including: providing a sample containing cells and a fluorescent dye; disposing a portion of the sample in a test volume between a pair of electrodes; applying a voltage across the pair of electrodes to generate an electric field across the portion of the sample; illuminating the test volume; measuring a fluorescence response from the test volume over a period of time after applying the voltage across the pair of electrodes; and detecting cells in the sample to be vital dependent on a change in their fluorescence response over the period of time.

Abstract: The invention provides a method for preparing activated charcoal from a precursor material comprising high mineral content plant or algal material by heating the precursor material under suitable conditions sufficient to produce activated charcoal therefrom. The invention also provides various applications of the activated charcoal per se.

Abstract: The invention provides a method for preparing activated charcoal from a precursor material comprising high mineral content plant or algal material by heating the precursor material under suitable conditions sufficient to produce activated charcoal therefrom. The invention also provides various applications of the activated charcoal per se.