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Agsu town is an Azerbaijan's recently excavated, important archaeological site, considered a crossroads of commercial routes since the ancient times between China, Asia Minor and Europe. For this reason, the area is rich in different typologies of artifacts with various provenances such as stone objects, glazed pottery and coins. The excavations indicated the presence of workshops specialized in various spheres of metallurgy, as well as of dye-works. A non-invasive or, at least, micro-destructive multi-technique approach was applied for the characterization of eight archaeological pottery fragments taken from Agsu Site (Azerbaijan) dated back XIX century A.D.. At different spatial scales, a combination of complementary optical microscopy (OM), scanning electron microscopy - energy dispersive spectroscopy (SEM-EDS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and prompt gamma activation analysis (PGAA) was applied. The proposed study is aimed at addressing issues such as the characterization of raw materials, the determination of manufacturing, the reconstruction of the firing technology, the identification of the pigments used for decoration and the formulation of a first hypothesis about provenance of the artifacts considered the scarce studies about it in literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Micro-destructive and non-destructive X-Ray fluorescence techniques and scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy-dispersive spectrometry have been applied for the analysis of ten samples of Hellenistic black-varnished pottery, coming from archaeological excavations in Syracuse and Adrano (South Italy, Sicily). Micro-morphological and compositional investigations, together with statistical data processing, have shown several differences among the varnishes of the specimen found in the two sites. In particular, Syracuse varnishes are characterised by a more homogeneous composition and well-defined raw materials, whereas Adrano samples show a higher variability, probably linked to the use of different raw materials and the poorer quality of the varnish as well. The obtained results attest that, as Syracuse black pottery is concerned, the production technique is at an advanced level, whereas Adrano manufacture seems to be less specialised. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The preciousness of historical artifacts leads to the performance of nondestructive and/or microdestructive analyses, especially when the archeological finds are stored in museums. The PXRF spectrometry represents a powerful technique for the chemometric study of the materials, in alternative to the more usual destructive X-ray-based methods. A large set of limestones belonging to several formations cropping out in the Hyblean area (south-eastern Sicily, Italy) was analyzed by means of a PXRF instrument. The main goal was to test the PXRF potentiality for the discrimination of rocks with similar features and to create a chemical database of carbonate rocks, which were commonly used in the past in the manufacturing of sculptures and stone artifacts. Fluorescence data were processed by means of multivariate statistical analysis. In particular, principal components analysis and linear discriminant analysis were applied. The results allowed us to classify the samples belonging to different formations and to distinguish different rock typologies within each formation. Finally, the investigation showed that the analytical PXRF data can be suitable for a substantial characterization of stone materials and this could be extended to museum materials belonging to cultural heritage. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Here, a novel strategy of formulating efficient polymeric carriers based on the already described INU-IMI-DETA for gene material whose structural, functional, and biological properties can be modulated and improved was successfully investigated. In particular, two novel derivatives of INU-IMI-DETA graft copolymer were synthesized by chemical functionalisation with epidermal growth factor (EGF) or polyethylenglycol (PEG), named INU-IMI-DETA-EGF and INU-IMI-DETA-PEG, respectively, in order to improve the performance of already described "inulin complex nanoaggregates" (ICONs). The latter were thus prepared by appropriately mixing the two copolymers, by varying each component from 0 to 100 wt% on the total mixture, named EP-ICONs. It was seen that the ability of the INU-IMI-DETA-EGF/INU-IMI-DETA-PEG polymeric mixture to complex siGL3 increases with the increase in the EGF-based component in the EP-ICONs and, for each sample, with the increase in the copolymer:siRNA weight ratio (R). On the other hand, the susceptibility of loaded siRNA towards RNase decreases with the increase in the pegylated component in the polymeric mixture. At all R values, the average size and the zeta potential values are suitable for escaping from the RES system and suitable for prolonged intravenous circulation. By means of biological characterisation, it was shown that MCF-7 cells are able to internalize mainly the siRNA-loaded into EGF-decorated complexes, with a significant difference from ICONs, confirming its targeting function. The targeting effect of EGF on EP-ICONs was further demonstrated by a competitive cell uptake study, i.e., after cell pre-treatment with EGF. Finally, it was shown that the complexes containing both EGF and PEG are capable of promoting the internalisation and therefore the transfection of siSUR, a siRNA acting against surviving mRNA, and to increase the sensitivity to an anticancer agent, such as doxorubicin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the general processability of cannabidiol (CBD) in colloidal lipid carriers was investigated. Due to its many pharmacological effects, the pharmaceutical use of this poorly water-soluble drug is currently under intensive research and colloidal lipid emulsions are a well-established formulation option for such lipophilic substances. To obtain a better understanding of the formulability of CBD in lipid emulsions, different aspects of CBD loading and its interaction with the emulsion droplets were investigated. Very high drug loads (>40% related to lipid content) could be achieved in emulsions of medium chain triglycerides, rapeseed oil, soybean oil and trimyristin. The maximum CBD load depended on the type of lipid matrix. CBD loading increased the particle size and the density of the lipid matrix. The loading capacity of a trimyristin emulsion for CBD was superior to that of a suspension of solid lipid nanoparticles based on trimyristin (69% vs. 30% related to the lipid matrix). In addition to its localization within the lipid core of the emulsion droplets, cannabidiol was associated with the droplet interface to a remarkable extent. According to a stress test, CBD destabilized the emulsions, with phospholipid-stabilized emulsions being more stable than poloxamer-stabilized ones. Furthermore, it was possible to produce emulsions with pure CBD as the dispersed phase, since CBD demonstrated such a pronounced supercooling tendency that it did not recrystallize, even if cooled to −60 °C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) have the potential to enhance the systemic availability of an active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) or reduce its toxicity through uptake of the SLNs from the gastrointestinal tract or controlled release of the API, respectively. In both aspects, the responses of the lipid matrix to external challenges is crucial. Here, we evaluate the effects of lyophilization on key responses of 1:1 beeswax–theobroma oil matrix SLNs using three model drugs: amphotericin B (AMB), paracetamol (PAR), and sulfasalazine (SSZ). Fresh SLNs were stable with sizes ranging between 206.5–236.9 nm. Lyophilization and storage for 24 months (4–8 °C) caused a 1.6- and 1.5-fold increase in size, respectively, in all three SLNs. Zeta potential was >60 mV in fresh, stored, and lyophilized SLNs, indicating good colloidal stability. Drug release was not significantly affected by lyophilization up to 8 h. Drug release percentages at end time were 11.8 ± 0.4, 65.9 ± 0.04, and 31.4 ± 1.95% from fresh AMB-SLNs, PAR-SLNs, and SSZ-SLNs, respectively, and 11.4 ± 0.4, 76.04 ± 0.21, and 31.6 ± 0.33% from lyophilized SLNs, respectively. Thus, rate of release is dependent on API solubility (AMB < SSZ < PAR). Drug release from each matrix followed the Higuchi model and was not affected by lyophilization. The above SLNs show potential for use in delivering hydrophilic and lipophilic drugs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanotechnology-based development of drug delivery systems is an attractive area of research in formulation driven R&D laboratories that makes administration of new and complex drugs feasible. It plays a significant role in the design of novel dosage forms by attributing target specific drug delivery, controlled drug release, improved, patient friendly drug regimen and lower side effects. Polysaccharides, especially chitosan, occupy an important place and are widely used in nano drug delivery systems owing to their biocompatibility and biodegradability. This review focuses on chitosan nanoparticles and envisages to provide an insight into the chemistry, properties, drug release mechanisms, preparation techniques and the vast evolving landscape of diverse applications across disease categories leading to development of better therapeutics and superior clinical outcomes. It summarizes recent advancement in the development and utility of functionalized chitosan in anticancer therapeutics, cancer immunotherapy, theranostics and multistage delivery systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite the nowadays available plentitude of strategies to selectively introduce functional surface modification of liposomes, in preclinical research this process is still primarily performed after liposomal preparation utilizing comprised activated phospholipids with functionalized head groups. However, because these activated lipids are present during the liposomal preparation process, they can cross-react with incorporated drugs, especially the particularly often utilized active esters and maleimide groups. Macromolecular drugs, being composed of amino acids, are particularly prone to such cross-reactions due to their often multiple reactive functionalities such as amino and disulfide groups. To demonstrate this impact on the formulation in liposomal surface modification, we assessed the extent of cross-reaction during the liposomal preparation of two activated phospholipids with typically used head group functionalized phospholipids, with the two peptide drugs vancomycin and insulin comprising disulfide and amino functionalities. Both drugs revealed a considerable fraction of covalent modification (estimated 2 to 12%) generated during the liposome preparation process with comprised activated lipids. Modification of the active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) was determined by high-resolution mass spectrometric analysis. These findings clearly demonstrate the non-negligibility of potential cross reactions using the post preparation liposomal surface modification strategy in preclinical research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The scientific investigation of the techniques employed by the artist, such as composition of the paints, color palette, and painting style represents a fundamental pre-requisite in order to develop proper conservation and restoration strategies. In this context, the combined use of non-destructive, non-invasive in situ image and chemical analyses was here successfully employed for the investigation of the XVIII century Madonna della Lettera panel painting from the ancient Basilian abbey of Santa Maria di Bordonaro in Messina (Italy). The used techniques were visible, infrared (IR) and false-color infrared (FCIR) photography, X-ray radiography, X-ray fluorescence (XRF) and Raman spectroscopy. The goal was to obtain accurate information on materials and techniques originally used and possible later interventions, with particular regard to the nature of the painting materials. From the results, details of the artwork useful for restoration and conservation procedures were revealed. The identification of most of the artist's palette was also achieved: Prussian blue for blue color, lead white for white, umber for the brown, cinnabar for the red, and carbon black for the black color. The composition of different preparatory substrates was also investigated. The obtained results, other than constituting a crucial step for future restoration works, can be at the same time useful for the dating of the painting, that does not report the date and the artist's signature. Unlabelled Image • A non-invasive, in situ investigation was performed on the XVIII century Madonna della Lettera painting (Messina, Italy). • The diagnostic analysis was based on visible, IR, FCIR photography, X-ray radiography, XRF and Raman techniques. • Details of the artwork useful for restoration and conservation procedures were revealed. • The identification of most of artist's palette was achieved. • The obtained information revealed useful for future restoration works and for the dating of the painting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanoemulsions are submicron-size colloidal systems that have the ability to encapsulate, protect, and deliver active ingredients. They have been used in the pharmaceutical, cosmetics, and food industries to improve the absorption of drugs by the skin or via the gastrointestinal tract, aide in food conservation, and treat skin problems. To proper formulate a nanoemulsion, it is important to know the characteristics of its components (aqueous and oil phases, surfactants and additives), as well as the influence on the production method that will be used. This study investigates the influence of aqueous phase composition, stability and particle size in an oil-and-water nanoemulsion formation. By using a low energy method, the purified water was exchanged for different commercial mineral water and saline solutions, and the results of stability, particle size, pH and conductivity tests, were compared. These results show that the minerals present in commercial waters may alter the particle size, pH and conductivity values of nanoemulsions, as well as their stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nonenzymatic and rapid monitoring of uric acid levels is of great value for early diagnosis, prevention, and management of oxidative stress–associated diseases. However, fast, convenient, and low‐cost uric acid detection remains challenging, especially in resource‐limited settings. In this study, a novel and rapid biosensing approach was developed for the simultaneous visualization and quantification of uric acid levels by using the unique surface plasmon resonance and photothermal property of 4,5‐diamino‐2‐thiouracil (DT)‐capped gold nanoparticles (AuNPs). With the presence of uric acid, DT‐capped AuNPs rapidly aggregated, and a visible color/photothermal change was used for uric acid quantification within 15 min. The limit of detection was determined to be 11.3 and 6.6 μM for the dual‐mode biosensor, leveraging the unique structure of DT to optimize reaction kinetics. Moreover, the sensor exhibited excellent anti‐interference capabilities and demonstrated potential for detecting a wide range of uric acid concentrations in complex samples, thereby reducing the need for extensive sample dilution and complex material synthesis procedures. Furthermore, validation against gold standard testing indicates that this biosensor could serve as a highly sensitive assay for quantifying uric acid levels in point‐of‐care applications, particularly in resource‐limited settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, an assessment of the natural radioactivity level, radon exhalation, metal contamination, and mineralogy of a granodiorite rock sample from Stilo, in the Calabria region, Southern Italy is presented as a case study. This rock was employed as a building material in the area under study. The specific activity of 226Ra, 232Th and 40K natural radioisotopes was assessed through high-purity germanium (HPGe) gamma-ray spectrometry. Then, several indices such as the absorbed gamma dose rate (D), the annual effective dose equivalent (AEDE), the activity concentration index (ACI) and the alpha index (Iα), were quantified to determine any potential radiological health risk related to radiation exposure from the analyzed rock. Furthermore, E-PERM electret ion chambers and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) measurements were carried out to properly quantify the radon exhalation rate and any possible metal pollution, respectively. In particular, to further address metal pollution factors, the geo-accumulation index (Igeo) was calculated to properly address the toxicity levels of the ecosystem originating from the detected metals. Finally, with the aim of successfully discriminating the provenance of such naturally occurring radionuclides, a combined approach involving X-ray diffraction (XRD) and µ-Raman spectroscopy was employed for the identification of the main radioisotope-bearing minerals characterizing the investigated granodiorite. The results achieved in this case study can be taken as the basis for further inquiries into background levels of radioactivity and chemical contamination in natural stone employed as building materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present paper, we report on a recent ultraviolet (UV) Raman study in conjunction with an FTIR absorbance investigation by using synchrotron radiation techniques, performed on wall paintings samples of frescoes, stored in the charming sites of San Gennaro and San Gaudioso Catacombs (Naples, Italy). The main goal was the analysis of the pigmenting materials in order to characterize the pigmenting agents and the binders used by the artists. In this frame, the combined use of both complementary SR-based techniques played a fundamental role. In addition, in principle the characterization of the pigmenting matter could be useful for reproducing similar materials in accordance with the ancient recipes to use in any restoration process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article the evaluation of the radon content in drinking water samples from the province of Reggio Calabria (Calabria, Southern Italy), is reported. In particular, the 222Rn activity concentration was measured by using the Liquid Scintillation Counting (LSC) PerkinElmer Tricarb 4910 TR setup, and it was compared with the parameter value (100 Bq L-1) reported in the Italian Legislative Decree 28/2016. The annual effective dose for the population of the investigated areas, due to the ingestion of 222Rn dissolved in water, was then evaluated only in those cases in which the parameter value was exceeded. Noteworthy, results reported in this paper represent a main reference for the investigated areas and constitute a baseline for future investigations regarding background radioactivity levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]