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"n Normal 0 false false false EN-US X-NONE AR-SA MicrosoftInternetExplorer4 /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-priority:99; mso-style-qformat:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast; mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family:Arial; mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;} Background: Post-intubation tracheal stenosis is a serious problem and surgical resection is the method of choice in long segment tracheal stenosis treatment. The aim of this study was to review the results of surgical treatment of long segment post intubation tracheal stenosis and the role of bilateral hyoid bone cutting in supra- hyoid release technique."n"nMethods: Between 2004 to 2008, 14 patients with proximal long segment tracheal stenosis with resection of more than 40% of trachea length were evaluated regarding surgical technique and post-operative results."n"nResults: The mean age of patients was 22.2±0.4 years. Etiology in all patients were head trauma and prolonged intubation and all patients had tracheostomy at the time of trearment. Average time between surgery and first admission was 4.5±0.5 months. Average length of stenosis and resected segment were 3.6±0.5 and 4.3±0.5cm respectively. Average increased length of trachea after bilateral hyoid bone cutting was 1.1±0.3cm. Postoperative complications occurred in one patient with wound infection, and 4 patients had stenosis recurrence which was treated in 3 patients using multiple dilation. Quality of life 2 years after surgery in 71% of patients were classified in good and excellent group. We didn't have any mortality."n"nConclusion: Based on the fact that surgery is the best method of treatment in long and multi segment tracheal stenosis and tension in suture line is a serious problem, we recommend extended releasing technique including bilateral hyoid cutting in surgical treatment of these patients.

Vitamin B6 (VB6) is a member of the water-soluble B vitamins which have a vital performance in nervous system operating activities. VB6 is highly demanded to maintain excellent skin and immune systems in the human body. furthermore, VB6 is tremendously substantial in the functions of some enzymes that participate in the metabolism of proteins, amino acids, etc. The deficiency of VB6 will eventuate in anemic situations and may lead to permanent injuries in the brain. moreover, recent studies disclosed that adequate Vitamin B6 in the human body can decrease the intensity of illnesses such as diabetes, stress, etc., in patients with COVID-19 infections. Thus, the detection of VB6 from real samples is crucial to control the amount of this vitamin in biological fluids and to monitor the pharmaceutical dosage quality. Various analytical approaches have been employed for the VB6 detection in biological and pharmaceutical samples. Although biosensing and sensing approaches hold several obvious advantages such as simplicity, capability for miniaturization, quick response time, etc. from other analytical methods. Hence, through the last decades, designing and fabricating biosensors with sufficient sensitivity and selectivity have been investigated by many researchers in order to detect VB6. The purpose of this review is to illustrate the importance of diverse electrochemical and optical approaches for VB6 detection. Additionally, novel VB6 detection techniques based on electrochemical, optical, and conventional methods have been considerably discussed, and compared with each other. Furthermore, a comprehensive summary of the current limitations and future challenges in VB6 analysis are explained and also create a pathway for subsequent expansions and applications.

Naproxen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug used to treat nonrheumatic inflammation, migraine, and gout. Therefore, the determination of naproxen in pharmaceutical and biological samples is of particular importance. In the present work, SrTi 0.7 Fe 0.3 O 3 perovskite/Chitosan nanosheets were used to modify the surface of a glassy carbon electrode (GCE) for highly sensitive determination of naproxen. To ensure the successful synthesis of the perovskite nanosheets, morphological studies including scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) were carried out. The electrochemical investigations of naproxen on the modified surface of GCE were investigated and the limit of detection (LOD) and limit of quantification (LOQ) were acquired 0.50 and 1.67 μM, respectively. Additionally, the linear range (LR) of 1.99-130.84 μM was obtained for the oxidation of naproxen. The obtained results have been proved that the mentioned method is simple, sensitive, and specific with a short analysis time. The dominant analytical features of the designed sensor are possessing a low detection limit, excellent stability, repeatability, and high selectivity in the presence of naproxen. For investigation of the applicability of the designed assay in real sample analysis, human plasma samples have been examined and a recovery index was acquired 95%., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2024. Published by Elsevier Inc.)

Introduction: The endothelial cells derived from the human vein cord (HUVECs) are used as in-vitro models for studying cellular and molecular pathophysiology, drug and hormones transport mechanisms, or pathways. In these studies, the proliferation and quantity of cells are important features that should be monitored and assessed regularly. So rapid, easy, noninvasive, and inexpensive methods are favorable for this purpose., Methods: In this work, a novel method based on fast Fourier transform square-wave voltammetry (FFTSWV) combined with a 3D printed electrochemical cell including two inserted platinum electrodes was developed for non-invasive and probeless rapid in-vitro monitoring and quantification of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). The electrochemical cell configuration, along with inverted microscope images, provided the capability of easy use, online in-vitro monitoring, and quantification of the cells during proliferation., Results: HUVECs were cultured and proliferated at defined experimental conditions, and standard cell counts in the initial range of 12 500 to 175 000 were prepared and calibrated by using a hemocytometer (Neubauer chamber) counting for electrochemical measurements. The optimum condition, for FFTSWV at a frequency of 100 Hz and 5 mV amplitude, were found to be a safe electrochemical measurement in the cell culture medium. In each run, the impedance or admittance measurement was measured in a 5 seconds time window. The total measurements were fulfilled at 5, 24, and 48 hours after the seeding of the cells, respectively. The recorded microscopic images before every electrochemical assay showed the conformity of morphology and objective counts of cells in every plate well. The proposed electrochemical method showed dynamic linearity in the range of 12 500-265 000 HUVECs 48 hours after the seeding of cells., Conclusion: The proposed electrochemical method can be used as a simple, fast, and noninvasive technique for tracing and monitoring of HUVECs population in in-vitro studies. This method is highly cheap in comparison with other traditional tools. The introduced configuration has the versatility to develop electrodes for the study of various cells and the application of other electrochemical designations., Competing Interests: The authors declare that they have no competing interests., (© 2024 The Author(s).)

Introduction: Multifocal Langerhans' cell histocytosis is a rare condition that can affect multiple organs and manifest in various scenarios. While the condition is more commonly found in children, it can also occur in adults., Case Report: A 43-year-old female presented with refractory otorrhea and had a rubbery neck mass in the left mid-cervical area, as well as an itchy eczematoid lesion in the left parietal area. The otic lesion was eventually resected, and histopathologic examination confirmed the diagnosis of Langerhans histiocytosis., Conclusions: Although rare in adults, Langerhans histiocytosis should be considered as one of the differential diagnoses for ear canal polyps. If diagnosed, medical treatment should be pursued.

Bimetallic Ru-Ni nanoparticles was synthesized on the reduced graphene oxide decorated Ni foam (Ru-Ni/rGO/NF) by electroplating method to be utilized as the anode electrocatalyst for direct hydrazine-hydrogen peroxide fuel cells (DHzHPFCs). The synthesized electrocatalysts were characterized by X-ray diffraction, Field emission scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and Raman spectroscopy. The electrochemical properties of catalysts towards hydrazine oxidation reaction in an alkaline medium were evaluated by cyclic voltammetry, chronoamperometry, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. In the case of Ru 1 -Ni 3 /rGO/NF electrocatalyst, Ru 1 -Ni 3 provided active sites due to low activation energy (22.24 kJ mol -1 ) for hydrazine oxidation reaction and reduced graphene oxide facilitated charge transfer by increasing electroactive surface area (EASA = 677.5 cm 2 ) with the small charge transfer resistance (0.1 Ω cm 2 ). The CV curves showed that hydrazine oxidation on the synthesized electrocatalysts was a first-order reaction in low concentrations of N 2 H 4 and the number of exchanged electrons was 3.0. In the single cell of the of direct hydrazine-hydrogen peroxide fuel cell, the maximum power density value of Ru 1 -Ni 3 /rGO/NF electrocatalyst was 206 mW cm -2 and the open circuit voltage was 1.73 V at 55 °C. These results proved that the Ru 1 -Ni 3 /rGO/NF is a promising candidate for using as the free-binder anode electrocatalyst in the future application of direct hydrazine-hydrogen peroxide fuel cells due to its excellent structural stability, ease of synthesis, low cost, and high catalytic performance., Competing Interests: The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (© 2023 The Authors.)

For sensitive detection of the L-fuculokinase genome related to the Haemophilus influenzae (H. influenzae), this research work demonstrates the label-free electrochemical-based oligonucleotide genosensing assay relying on the performing hybridization process. To enhance the electrochemical responses, multiple electrochemical modifier-tagged agents were effectively utilized. For attaining this goal, NiCr-layered double hydroxide (NiCr LDH) has been synthesized and combined with biochar (BC) to create an efficient electrochemical signal amplifier that has been immobilized on the surface of the bare Au electrode. Low detection and quantification limits (LOD and LOQ) associated with the designed genosensing bio-platform to detect L-fuculokinase have been achieved to 6.14 fM and 11 fM, respectively. Moreover, the wide linear range of 0.1 to 1000 pM demonstrates the capability of the designed platform. Investigated were the 1-, 2-, and 3-base mismatched sequences, and the negative control samples clarified the high selectivity and better performance of the engineered assay. The values of 96.6-104% and 2.3-3.4% have been obtained for the recoveries and RSDs, respectively. Furthermore, the repeatability and reproducibility of the associated bio-assay have been studied. Consequently, the novel method is appropriate for rapidly and quantitatively detecting H. influenzae, and is considered a better candidate for advanced tests on biological samples such as urine samples., (© 2023. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag GmbH Austria, part of Springer Nature.)

In the present research work, the state-of-art label-free electrochemical genosensing platform was developed based on the hybridization process in the presence of [Fe(CN) 6 ] 3-/4- as an efficient redox probe for sensitive recognition of the miRNA-21 in human gastric cell lines samples. To attain this aim, perovskite nanosheets were initially synthesized. Afterward, the obtained compound was combined with the graphene oxide resulting in an effective electrochemical modifier, which was dropped on the surface of the Au electrode. Then, AuNPs (Gold Nano Particles) have been electrochemically-immobilized on perovskite-graphene oxide/Au-modified electrode surface through the chronoamperometry (CA) technique. Finally, a self-assembling monolayer reaction of ss-capture RNA ensued by the thiol group at the end of the probe with AuNPs on the modified electrode surface. miRNA-21 has been cast on the Au electrode surface to apply the hybridization process. To find out the effectiveness of the synthesized modifier agent, the electrochemical behavior of the modified electrode has been analyzed through DPV (differential pulse voltammetry) and CV (cyclic voltammetry) techniques. The prepared biomarker-detection bioassay offers high sensitivity and specificity, good performance, and appropriate precision and accuracy for the highly-sensitive determination of miRNA-21. Different characterization methods have been used, such as XRD, Raman, EDS, and FE-SEM, for morphological characterization and investigation of particle size. Based on optimal conditions, the limit of detection and quantification have been acquired at 2.94 fM and 8.75 fM, respectively. Furthermore, it was possible to achieve a wide linear range which is between 10 -14 and 10 -7 for miRNA-21. Moreover, the selectivity of the proposed biosensing assay was investigated through its potential in the detection of one, two, and three-base mismatched sequences. Moreover, it was possible to investigate the repeatability and reproducibility of the related bio-assay. To evaluate the hybridization process, it is important that the planned biomarker detection bio-assay could be directly re-used and re-generated.

Since the development of enzyme electrodes, the research area of glucose biosensing has seen outstanding progress and improvement. Numerous sensing platforms have been developed based on different immobilization techniques and improved electron transfer between the enzyme and electrode. Interestingly, these platforms have consistently used innovative nanostructures and nanocomposites. In recent years, layered double hydroxides (LDHs) have become key tools in the field of analytical chemistry owing to their outstanding features and benefits, such as facile synthesis, cost-effectiveness, substantial surface area, excellent catalytic performance, and biocompatibility. LDHs are often synthesized as nanomaterial composites or manufactured with specific three-dimensional structures. The purpose of this review is to illustrate the biosensing prospects of LDH-based glucose sensors and the need for improvement. First, various clinical and conventional approaches for glucose determination are discussed. The definitions, types, and various synthetic methodologies of LDHs are then explained. Subsequently, we discuss the various research studies regarding LDH-based electrochemical and optical assays, focusing on modified systems, improved electron transfers pathways (through developments in surface science), and different sensing designs based on nanomaterials. Finally, a summary of the current limitations and future challenges in glucose analysis is described, which may facilitate further development and applications., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2022 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Mycotoxins in food are hazardous for animal and human health, resulting in food waste and exacerbating the critical global food security situation. In addition, they affect commerce, particularly the incomes of rural farmers. The grave consequences of these contaminants require a comprehensive strategy for their elimination to preserve consumer safety and regulatory compliance. Therefore, developing a policy framework and control strategy for these contaminants is essential to improve food safety. In this context, sensing approaches based on metal-organic frameworks (MOF) offer a unique tool for the quick and effective detection of pathogenic microorganisms, heavy metals, prohibited food additives, persistent organic pollutants (POPs), toxins, veterinary medications, and pesticide residues. This review focuses on the rapid screening of MOF-based sensors to examine food safety by describing the main features and characteristics of MOF-based nanocomposites. In addition, the main prospects of MOF-based sensors are highlighted in this paper. MOF-based sensing approaches can be advantageous for assessing food safety owing to their mobility, affordability, dependability, sensitivity, and stability. We believe this report will assist readers in comprehending the impacts of food jeopardy exposure, the implications on health, and the usage of metal-organic frameworks for detecting and sensing nourishment risks.

The rapid expansion of the human population has given rise to new environmental and biomedical concerns, contributing to different advancements in the pharmaceutical industry. In the field of analytical chemistry over the last few years, layered double hydroxides (LDHs) have drawn significant attention, owing to their extraordinary properties. Furthermore, the novel advancement of LDH-based optical and electrochemical platforms to detect different pharmaceutical materials has acquired substantial attention because of their outstanding specificity, actual-time controlling, and user-friendliness. This review aims to recapitulate advanced LDHs-based optical and electrochemical sensors and biosensors to identify and measure important pharmaceutical compounds, such as anti-depressant, anti-inflammatory, anti-viral, anti-bacterial, anti-cancer, and anti-fungal drugs. Additionally, fundamental parameters, namely interactions between sensor and analyte, design rationale, classification, selectivity, and specificity are considered. Finally, the development of high-efficiency techniques for optical and electrochemical sensors and biosensors is featured to deliver scientists and readers a complete toolbox to identify a broad scope of pharmaceutical substances. Our goals are: (i) to elucidate the characteristics and capabilities of available LDHs for the identification of pharmaceutical compounds; and (ii) to deliver instances of the feasible opportunities that the existing devices have for the developed sensing of pharmaceuticals regarding the protection of ecosystems and human health at the global level., (Copyright © 2022 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Pesticides are primarily used in agriculture to increase crop yield because of their highly lucrative, stable structure and agricultural benefits such as eliminating fungi, plant diseases, pests and insects to regulate the growth of crops. Apart from their rebel design and agricultural benefits, pesticides have severe toxicity to a variety of other living organisms. Therefore, developing effective pesticide detection systems is an ongoing challenge. Multiple technologies that for the rapid, easy, sensitive, and selective detection of these neurotoxic compounds are in demand. This paper reviews the recent advances in sensing assays based on the metal-organic framework (MOF) structure for pesticide detection. We have reviewed state-of-the-art optical biosensors for in-place sensing that have the advantages of a simple protocol, simple manipulation, super sensitivity, wide linear range, and cost-effectiveness. These biosensors use chemiluminescence with a short sensing time and a highly sensitive luminescence sensor that enables real-time detection by easy smartphone pairing. For profitable platforms, the obstacles related to sample preparation and equipment cost can be overcome by employing electrochemical sensors. The intensity, impedance, and potential difference measurement techniques used in these biosensors allow for low detection limits and observable durations in water, agricultural, and food samples containing high levels of pesticides., (Copyright © 2022 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Up-to-date diagnostics is globally improved by point-of-care testing (POCT) analysis and bedside research works. Development in POCT analysis has been provided mostly by forward-looking engineering technology for biosensing and sensing assessments. Lately, lateral flow assays (LFAs) have attracted a lot of interest as a result of their noteworthy benefits including cost-effectiveness, better portability, being operator friendly and rapid detection. This technique has been employed broadly for monitoring diverse biomarkers linked to ultrasensitive detection of pathogenic bacteria, ecological monitoring, consumer protection, and infectious diseases. LFA analyses established on qualitative and optical outcomes have boosted the objectivity and data efficiency of the assessments. Therefore, developing novel methods with the capability of providing reliable and quantitative information regarding a target analyte in a model and preserving the qualities of LFAs is of great necessity. In this review, the main principles of LFAs, challenges, and prospects for more development in this field in sensing pathogenic bacteria have been summarized. Subsequently, visually-read LFAs improvement to further progressive platforms have been explored by considering the prospects of this very flexible method for ultrasensitive detection of pathogenic bacteria. In addition, novel labeling methodologies, electrochemical and optical transducers are described. Also, recent developments in these detection methods elements in combination with other considered approaches have been highlighted., (Copyright © 2022 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

The need for food and agricultural resources is constantly rising, resulting in pesticide poisoning and environmental hazards. Diverse technologies collaborate to develop effective biosensors for detecting different pesticides, as it is difficult to achieve an efficient mechanism to detect pesticides. Novel solutions to reduce the cost and time for preparing samples in pesticide detection are being developed using new technologies. Moreover, methods like electrochemical techniques and fluorescence spectroscopy are now being improved to increase the sensitivity and make the operation more convenient. This article reviews the remarkable evolution in the structure of various Layered Double Hydroxides (LDHs), their various synthesis techniques, and their uses in various fields, especially in biological applications to detect pesticides in diverse contaminated samples. LDHs are layered materials with special characteristics favorable for pesticide detection. LDHs, have recently aroused increasing interest in research. We also discuss the latest advances made in the emergent strategies for improving the antimicrobial activity of LDHs., (Copyright © 2022 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Zearalenone (ZEN), a significant class of mycotoxin which is considered as a xenoestrogen, permits, similar to natural estrogens, it's binding to the receptors of estrogen resulting in various reproductive diseases especially, hormonal misbalance. ZEN has toxic effects on human and animal health as a result of its teratogenicity, carcinogenicity, mutagenicity, nephrotoxicity, genotoxicity, and immunotoxicity. To ensure water and environmental resources safety, precise, rapid, sensitive, and reliable analytical and conventional methods can be progressed for the determination of toxins such as ZEN. Different selective nanomaterial-based compounds are used in conjunction with different analytical detection approaches to achieve this goal. The current review demonstrates the state-of-the-art advances of nanomaterial-based electrochemical sensing assays including various sensing, apta-sensing and, immunosensing studies to the highly sensitive determination of various ZEN families. At first, a concise study of the occurrence, structure, toxicity, legislations, and distribution of ZEN in monitoring has been performed. Then, different conventional and clinical techniques and procedures to sensitive and selective sensing techniques have been reviewed and the efficient comparison of them has been thoroughly discussed. This study has also summarized the salient features and the requirements for applying various sensing and biosensing platforms and diverse immobilization techniques in ZEN detection. Finally, we have defined the performance of several electrochemical sensors applying diverse recognition elements couples with nanomaterials fabricated using various recognition elements coupled with nanomaterials (metal NPs, metal oxide nanoparticles (NPs), graphene, and CNT) the issues limiting development, and the forthcoming tasks in successful construction with the applied nanomaterials., (Copyright © 2021 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Diverse chemicals and some physical phenomena recently introduced in nanotechnology have enabled scientists to develop useful devices in the field of food sciences. Concerning such developments, detecting foodborne pathogenic bacteria is now an important issue. These kinds of bacteria species have demonstrated severe health effects after consuming foods and high mortality related to acute cases. The most leading path of intoxication and infection has been through food matrices. Hence, quick recognition of foodborne bacteria agents at low concentrations has been required in current diagnostics. Lateral flow assays (LFAs) are one of the urgent and prevalently applied quick recognition methods that have been settled for recognizing diverse types of analytes. Thus, the present review has stressed on latest developments in LFAs-based platforms to detect various foodborne pathogenic bacteria such as Salmonella, Listeria, Escherichia coli, Brucella, Shigella, Staphylococcus aureus, Clostridium botulinum, and Vibrio cholera. Proper prominence has been given on exactly how the labels, detection elements, or procedures have affected recent developments in the evaluation of diverse bacteria using LFAs. Additionally, the modifications in assays specificity and sensitivity consistent with applied food processing techniques have been discussed. Finally, a conclusion has been drawn for highlighting the main challenges confronted through this method and offered a view and insight of thoughts for its further development in the future., (© 2022 Institute of Food Technologists®.)

Shigella dysenteriae, a gram-negative bacterium, which results in the most infectious of bacterial shigellosis and dysenteries. In this study, an innovative gene detection platform based on label-free DNA sequences was developed to detect Shigella dysenteriae in human plasma samples. The porous and honeycomb-like structure of biochar (BC) was first synthesized through a pyrolysis process. Then, the produced biochar was effectively decorated with flower-like MoS 2 nanosheets (MoS 2 /BC). The resulting nanocomposite was incorporated with Au nanoparticles (AuNPs) by applying chronoamperometry technique, and then the subsequent product including MoS 2 nanosheets, biochar and AuNPs were immobilized on the Au electrode surface and used for modifier agent in electrochemical bio-assays. Structural and morphological study of the synthesized compounds were investigated using various characterization methods such as FE-SEM, TEM, EDS, FTIR, and XRD. Various electrochemical techniques including cyclic voltammetry (CV) and Differential pulse anodic stripping voltammetry (DPASV) have been used to investigate the applicability of the fabricated genosensing bio-assay. Under optimal conditions, LOD and LOQ were calculated 9.14 fM and 0.018 pM respectively. In addition, a linear range from 0.01 to 100 pM was obtained for single stranded-target DNA (ss-tDNA), with R 2 of 0.9992. The recoveries ranged from 98.0 to 101.3%. The fabricated bio-detection assay demonstrated high selectivity for 1, 2, and 3 base mismatch sequences. In addition, a negative control of the gene detection platform which was performed to study selectivity was provided by ss-tDNA from Haemophilusinfluenzae, and Salmonella typhimurium. Moreover, it is important to mention that the organized bioassay is simply reusable and reproducible with the RSD% (relative standard deviation) ˂ 5 to next detection assays., (Copyright © 2021 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Monitoring of pathogenic bacteria plays a vital role in precluding foodborne disease outbreaks. In this research work, a genosensor based on innovative label-free DNA was developed for the detection of Salmonella. typhimurium (S. typhimurium) in the milk samples. To realize this objective, bimetallic Fe/Mn MOF is synthesized and mixed with methyl-β-cyclodextrin (MβCD) and AuNPs which are then stabilized on multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs), and the obtained nanocomposite is immobilized on the Au electrode surface. Different characterization methods such as FE-SEM, TEM, EDS, FTIR, and XRD were used for investigating the particle size and morphological features. Electrochemical and impedimetric techniques were used for exploring the applicability of the fabricated genosensor. Under optimal circumstances, LOD and LOQ have acquired at 0.07 pM and 0.21 pM. Moreover, an extensive linear range of 1 pM-1 μM was resulted for ss-tDNA (single-stranded target DNA), R 2 obtained 0.9991. The recoveries were obtained 95.6-104%. Great selectivity against one, two, and three-base mismatched sequences was also shown for fabricated biosensing assay. Furthermore, negative genosensing assay control for investigating selectivity was provided by the ss-tDNAs of Haemophilusinfluenzae and Shigella dysenteriae bacteria. Well-fabricated genosensing bio-assay represents better performance, great specificity, high sensitivity, increased active sites, and finally results in an increase in the electron transfer rate. It is to be noted that the organized genosensing bio-assay is capable of being re-used and re-generated in a straightforward manner to estimate the hybridization process., (Copyright © 2021 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Fumonisins (FBs) can be found extensively in feedstuffs, foodstuffs, and crops. The consumption of the fumonisin-contaminated corn can result in esophageal cancer. In addition, the secondary metabolites of fungi termed mycotoxins may have some adverse effects on animals and humans such as estrogenicity, immunotoxicity, teratogenicity, mutagenicity, and carcinogenicity. Hence, developing sensitivity techniques for mycotoxins determination is of great importance. This paper reports the latest developments of nanomaterial-based electrochemical biosensing, apta-sensing, sensing, and immunosensing analyses to detect fumonisins. A concise study of the occurrence, legislations, toxicity, and distribution of FBs in levels monitoring was done. The techniques, different detection matrices, and approaches to highly selective and sensitive sensing methods were reviewed. The review also summarizes the salient features and the necessity of biosensing assessments in FBs detection, and diverse immobilization techniques. Furthermore, this review defined the performance of various electrochemical sensors using different detection elements couples with nanomaterials fabricated applying different detection elements coupled with nanomaterials (metal oxide nanoparticles (NPs), metal NPs, CNT, and graphene), the factors limiting progress, and the upcoming tasks in successful aptasensor fabrication with the functionalized nanomaterials.

Patulin and Trichothecene as the main groups of mycotoxins in significant quantities can cause health risks from allergic reactions to death on both humans and animals. Accordingly, rapid and highly sensitive determination of these toxics agents is of great importance. This review starts with a comprehensive outlook regarding the characteristics, occurrence and toxic effects of Patulin and Trichothecene. In the following, numerous clinical and analytical approaches have been extensively discussed. The main emphasis of this review is placed on the utilization of novel nanomaterial based electrochemical sensing/biosensing tools for highly sensitive determination of Patulin and Trichothecene. Furthermore, a detailed and comprehensive comparison has been performed between clinical, analytical and sensing methods. Subsequently, the nanomaterial based electrochemical sensing platforms have been approved as reliable tools for on-site analysis of Patulin and Trichothecene in food processing and manufacturing industries. Different nanomaterials in improving the performance of detecting assays were investigated and have various benefits toward clinical and analytical methods. This paper would address the limitations in the current developments as well as the future challenges involved in the successful construction of sensing approaches with the functionalized nanomaterials and also allow exploring into core-research works regarding this area.[Formula: see text].

Viruses are responsible for multiple infections in humans that impose huge health burdens on individuals and populations worldwide. Therefore, numerous diagnostic methods and strategies have been developed for prevention, management, and decreasing the burden of viral diseases, each having its advantages and limitations. Viral infections are commonly detected using serological and nucleic acid-based methods. However, these conventional and clinical approaches have some limitations that can be resolved by implementing other detector devices. Therefore, the search for sensitive, selective, portable, and costless approaches as efficient alternative clinical methods for point of care testing (POCT) analysis has gained much attention in recent years. POCT is one of the ultimate goals in virus detection, and thus, the tests need to be rapid, specific, sensitive, accessible, and user-friendly. In this review, after a brief overview of viruses and their characteristics, the conventional viral detection methods, the clinical approaches, and their advantages and shortcomings are firstly explained. Then, LFA systems working principles, benefits, classification are discussed. Furthermore, the studies regarding designing and employing LFAs in diagnosing different types of viruses, especially SARS-CoV-2 as a main concern worldwide and innovations in the LFAs' approaches and designs, are comprehensively discussed here. Furthermore, several strategies addressed in some studies for overcoming LFA limitations like low sensitivity are reviewed. Numerous techniques are adopted to increase sensitivity and perform quantitative detection. Employing several visualization methods, using different labeling reporters, integrating LFAs with other detection methods to benefit from both LFA and the integrated detection device advantages, and designing unique membranes to increase reagent reactivity, are some of the approaches that are highlighted., Competing Interests: The authors have no conflict of interest to declare., (© 2021 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Porous Metal-Organic Frameworks (MOFs) have emerged as eye-catching materials in recent years. They are widely used in numerous fields of chemistry thanks to their desirable properties. MOFs have a key role in the development of bioimaging platforms that are hopefully expected to effectually pave the way for accurate and selective detection and diagnosis of abnormalities. Recently, many types of MOFs have been employed for detection of RNA, DNA, enzyme activity and small-biomolecules, as well as for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT), which are valuable methods for clinical analysis. The optimal performance of the MOF in the bio-imaging field depends on the core structure, synthesis method and modifications processes. In this review, we have attempted to present crucial parameters for designing and achieving an efficient MOF as bioimaging platforms, and provide a roadmap for researchers in this field. Moreover, the influence of modifications/fractionalizations on MOFs performance has been thoroughly discussed and challenging problems have been extensively addressed. Consideration is mainly focused on the principal concepts and applications that have been achieved to modify and synthesize advanced MOFs for future applications., (Copyright © 2021 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Background: The seizures, triggered by a loud sound in laboratory animals, are associated with the imbalance of the brain monoamines. Serotonin (5-HT) is regarded as one of the principal neurotransmitters to be involved in regulation of wide variety of physiological and psychological processes. Among the drugs that affect 5-HT synaptic transmission, the leading role is given to selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), such as fluoxetine., Aim: The aim of the study is to investigate the effects of fluoxetine on seizures in Wistar rats with high susceptibility to audiogenic stress., Methods: The study was performed on male Wistar rats. Before the experiments, the animals were tested for susceptibility to audiogenic seizures by exposure to a sound of 90-110 dB for 2 min in the soundproof box. The difference between congenital susceptibility to seizures served as a basis for dividing animals into two groups: Seizure-susceptible (SS) and seizure-tolerant (ST) rats. One hour before the experiment, the experimental animals were orally administered with fluoxetine, while the control rats were treated with distilled water. The effect of fluoxetine on the level of the biogenic amines in different regions of the brain was determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA)., Results: It has been shown that in 100% of the cases, the control SS rats, exposed to audiogenic stimulus, exhibited wild running around in circles and jumping as some of the signs of seizure responses that evolved into tonic-clonic seizures in 70% of the cases. As regards the experimental SS animals: Only in 60% of the cases (P<0.05), they exhibited wild running and flinch, which did not evolve into the tonic-clonic phase., Conclusion: Decreased manifestation of seizures in the experimental SS rats under acute administration of fluoxetine may be explained by highly distinctive repertoire and spatial distribution of 5-HT receptors in their brain structures in comparison to the ST rats., Relevance for Patients: The study of the monoaminergic mechanisms of seizure generation is of practical importance due to the existence of pharmacological agents, which selectively affect the activity of the monoaminergic systems of the brain, as well as the metabolism of the monoamines synthesized by them., Competing Interests: The authors claim that there are no conflicts of interest., (Copyright: © Whioce Publishing Pte. Ltd.)

Highly sensitive and rapid methods for the Ochratoxin A (OTA) detection as a main class of Ochratoxins (OT) in various food samples is significant. In the present review, novel OTA detection techniques based on electrochemical and conventional methods have been extensively explained, and also compared with each other in food samples. We classified the various electrochemical based techniques of OTA determination creatively into Impedimetric, Voltammetric, Amperometric and Electrochemiluminescence assays and their efficient comparison with conventional, and clinical methods including Capillary Electrophoresis (CE), High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC), Liquid Chromatography/Mass Spectroscopy (LC/MS), and Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) has been performed comprehensively. Moreover, structure, characteristics, and different types of OT and OTA are explained as extensively as possible. A summary of the current limitations and future challenges in OTA analysis are described, which efficiently provide a pathway for further developments and applications., (Copyright © 2021 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

An innovative label-free DNA genosensing assay based on a direct hybridization followed by DPASV in the presence of [Fe(CN) 6 ] 4-/3- was developed for recognizing the H. influenza genome in human plasma samples. To attain this objective, Zn-based MOF was synthesized and combined with carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), which were immobilized on the surface of Au electrode and AuNPs were immobilized on the Zn-based MOF/CMC/Au-modified electrode surface. The genosensing bio-assay provides high specificity, sensitivity, and good performance for the determination of L-fuculokinase gene from the Haemophilus influenza genome. Various characterization techniques were applied including Fe-SEM, EDS, FT-IR, and XRD for investigation of morphological features and particle size. Under optimal conditions LOD and LOQ were 1.48 fM and 3.23 fM, respectively. Moreover, a wide linear range was obtained ranging from 0.1 pM-10 nM for t-DNA. The recoveries and RSDs were 98.4-103% and 2.2-3.2, respectively. The fabricated biosensing assay presented high selective ability of one, two, and three-base mismatched sequences. In addition, negative control of the genosensing assay for investigation of the selectivity was performed by the t-DNAs of Salmonella typhimurium and Shigella flexneri bacteria. Likewise, reproducibility and repeatability of the related bio-assay were investigated. It is to be noted that the organized genosensing bio-assay can be straightforwardly reused and regenerated to assess the hybridization process.

Introduction: A new microfluidic-based method with electrochemical detection was developed for the simultaneous quantification of acetaminophen (AP) and phenylephrine (PHE) pharmaceuticals in the human blood and pharmaceuticals (e.g. tablet and drop). Methods: The separation was achieved on a SU8/glass microchip with a 100 µm Pt working electrode that was positioned out of the channel and 2-(N-morpholino) ethanesulfonic acid was used as a running buffer (pH 7, 10 mM). Home designed modulated high voltage power supply and dual time switcher was used for controlling the injection and separation of the analytes in the unpinched injection mode. Results: The injection was carried out using +750 V for 7 seconds, and the separation and detection voltages were set at +1000 V and +0.9 V, respectively. Critical parameters such as detection potential, buffer concentration, injection, and separation voltage were studied in terms of their effects on the resolution, peak height, and migration times. For each analyte, the correlation coefficients were over 0.99 (n = 6). The developed microchip was able to detect AP and phenylephrine simultaneously with the limit of detection of 7.9 and 5.2 (µg/mL) respectively for PHE and AP and excellent linear range of 10-200 (µg/mL). The recovery of the drugs ranged from 96% to 103%, while the repeatability of the method through inter- and intra-day was lower than 7%. Conclusion: The developed method offers several advantages, including easy sample pretreatment process, simplicity, very fast analysis compared to other typical chromatographic methods. Thus, the proposed microfluidic-based method is proposed to be used as a time- and cost-effective monitoring method for the analysis of AP and PHE., (© 2021 The Author(s).)

Objectives: Evaluate the effect of functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) for nasal polyposis on sleep efficiency and polysomnographic parameters., Subjects and Methods: This clinical trial was conducted on 15 patients with bilateral massive sinonasal polyposis who underwent FESS between August 2012 and September 2013. All participants were evaluated subjectively by employing the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) questionnaire and objectively (provided by polysomnographic parameters) before and 2 months after surgery., Results: The evaluation of subjective criteria of sleep quality assessed by PSQI showed significant improvement, particularly in nocturnal awakening (P = 0.002). However, Apnea Hypopnea Index (AHI) was not reduced significantly after surgery (P = 0.233). Among patients who had suffered from obstructive sleep apnea, AHI was improved in 7 patients, deteriorated in 3 patients, and did not change in 1 patient. Although the mean duration of REM sleep stage increased from 15.2 ± 10.7 to 18.9 ± 7.9, this change was not statistically significant. Furthermore, arousal index decreased dramatically from 31.6 to 17.1 (P = 0.02) and sleep efficiency index was improved after the surgery (P = 0.008)., Conclusions: This study documented the effect of resuming nasal cavity patency on improvement of sleep efficiency after FESS. In spite of insignificant effect of FESS on apnea index, alteration of other sleep parameters like arousal index following surgery may have a positive effect on sleep quality., (Copyright © 2019 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Introduction: Rhinosinus polyposis is associated with voice quality reduction. There has been little evidence about the efficacy of rhinosinus polyps surgery on patients' voice quality so far. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the nasality and acoustic voice changes after rhinosinus polyposis surgery., Materials and Methods: The population in this study composed of 30 eligible patients with rhinosinusitis and rhinosinus polyposiss. The functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) was the therapeutic intervention. Acoustic voice parameters were jitter (%), shimmer (db), noise to harmonic ratio (NHR), and fundamental frequency (F0) for the vowels [a, o, e, aa, ie, and ou]. For nasality evaluation, the articulation of vowel [a] was examined using nasometer device. The changes regarding the patients' voice were evaluated one day before and one month after the surgery., Results: The mean age of the participants was 41.2±14.3 years. Considering gender distribution, 20 (66.7%) subjects were men. After the operation, the nasality increased significantly from 40.8% to 74.3% (P<0.001). In addition, the findings revealed the increase of shimmer and F0 (P>0.05). On the other hand, jitter and NHR changes were insignificant., Conclusion: The findings of the current study showed that hyponasality decreased a month after the treatment of rhinosinus polyposis with FESS. However, the acoustic quality of voice had no significant changes after the surgery.

In this work, low cost α-MnO 2 nanowires and α-MnO 2 nanowires supported on carbon Vulcan (α-MnO 2 /C) have been synthesized via a simple and facile hydrothermal method for application in microbial fuel cells. The prepared samples have been characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman spectroscopy and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM). Electrocatalytic activities of the samples have been evaluated by means of cyclic voltammetry (CV), linear sweep voltammetry (LSV) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) in a neutral phosphate buffer solution. EIS was performed at different potentials to gain further insight into the kinetic properties of α-MnO 2 /C. Both catalysts were used in air cathode microbial fuel cells to achieve power densities of 180 and 111 mWm -2 for α-MnO 2 /C and pristine α-MnO 2 nanowires, respectively. α-MnO2/C functions as a good and economical alternative for Pt free catalysts in practical MFC applications, as shown by the findings of stability test and voltage generation cycles in long-term operation of MFC., (Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier B.V.)

Purpose: Electrochemical measurements have prompted the progress as a consequence of their affectability, cost-affectivity and comparatively short examination time. The aim of this study was the fast evaluation of the effect of chemotherapy compounds on the viability of lung cancer cells (A549) via electrochemical methods. Methods: Cyclic voltammetry (CV) was used as a primary method to distinguish between electrochemical behavior of normal and lung cancer cells. Differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) was employed as a complementary analyses method for the impact of doxorubicin (DOX) and Flavonoid modified drug (FMD) (US patent Application number: 62548886) on Lung cancer cells. Results: Only one oxidative peak, at approximately -0.15 V was detected through DPV method in cancer cell line. While a significant distinguish was not seen in CV. The current intensity (I) was decreased in cancer cells with increasing the DOX and FMD levels (t=99.027, α=0.05, P=0.0000), (t=135.513, α=0.05, P=0.0000), respectively. Conclusion: The movement of cancerous cells towards death through chemotherapy drugs such as DOX and FMD can make distinct and significant changes in the electrochemical behaviors of those cells.

High surface area nanoporous Cu film (NPCF) has been successfully synthesized using a hydrogen bubble dynamic template on the graphene nanosheets (GNs) modified glassy carbon electrode (GCE). The effect of different synthesis conditions such as applied potential and deposition time on the NPCF morphology was investigated. The structure and constituent of the NPCF-GNs/GCE were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive x-ray (EDX), X-ray diffraction (XRD), electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and electrochemical methods. The study on electrocatalytic performance of the NPCF-GNs/GCE demonstrated that this electrode has excellent catalytic activity toward nitrite oxidation. The quantitative measurement of nitrite by amperometric method showed a wide concentration range (0.1-100µmolL -1 ) with a detection limit and a sensitivity of 8.87 × 10 -8 molL -1 and 3.1 AL/molcm 2 , respectively. The excellent electrochemical response and high sensitivity of the proposed electrode were attributed to the 3D structure of NPCF and the synergic effect of NPCF and GNs. Furthermore, this electrode showed some other advantages including good repeatability, high reproducibility, long-term stability and anti-interference performance toward nitrite sensing. The applicability of the proposed electrode was proved by successful determination of nitrite in real samples (tap water, river water and sausage samples)., (Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

The development of analytical methods that respond to the emerging need to perform rapid 'in situ' analyses of human metabolic pathways (HMPs) demonstrates disposable screen-printed electrodes (SPEs) as an alternative to the traditional tools. In the kynurenine pathway, one of the important HMPs, increased production of kynurenine (Kyn) as a main catabolite of tryptophan (Trp) degradation is involved in the immuno-editing process supporting cancer cells in escaping from the human immune system. In the current study, we demonstrate the development of a screen-printed potentiometric immunosensor for in vitro evaluation of Trp consumption and Kyn production controlled by cancer cells in response to the activated T-lymphocytes. To engineer this immunosensor, uniform layer of carboxylated multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) was deposited on gold screen-printed electrode (AuSPE), and afterwards monoclonal antibody (mAb) specific to l-kynurenine was covalently conjugated with the MWCNT modified AuSPE. The engineered immunosensor was examined in monitoring Trp consumption and Kyn production in metastatic (Calu-6, NCI-H1299, and HT29) and nonmetastatic (HepG2 and 1321NI) cancer cell lines. Without applying preparation and separation steps, this Trp-Kyn immunosensor offers an improved limit of detection (0.5nM and 120nM for Kyn and Trp detection, respectively) and a broad linear range of detection (LRD: 0.001-1µM and 1-100µM for Kyn, and 0.1-300µM for Trp detection). However, this immunosensor was successfully used for in situ analysis of Kyn that are produced during immuno-editing process in cell culture media, and could reveal that Trp consumption and Kyn production by highly metastatic cancer cells (HT29) were significantly higher than nonmetastatic HepG2 cancer cells. Owing to the screen-printed nature, such kind of biosensors have capability of being integrated into lab-on-a-chip (LOC), microfluidics, and micro total analysis systems., (Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Acute invasive fungal rhinosinusitis (AIFRS) is a rapidly progressive life threatening infection that is seen most commonly among immunocompromised patients. We present a case series of 18 patients clinically and histopathologically diagnosed with AIFRS with a mean follow-up of 9.11 ± 2.51 months (range 6-17). Demographic data, apparent symptoms and signs, underlying disorders, and outcomes are discussed. The mean age was 39.56 ± 20.66 years (range 2-75). The most common underlying diseases were diabetes mellitus (50 %) and leukemia (44.44 %). Mucosal biopsy confirmed fungal invasion of the nasal mucosa in all cases. The main fungi were Rhizopus oryzae (55.56 %), Absidia mucor (16.67 %), and Aspergillus fumigatus (27.78 %). Headache and facial pain (77.8 %), facial paresthesia (55.6 %), and ophthalmoplegia (33.3 %) were the most common symptoms and signs. Computed tomography and endoscopic findings showed various stages of sinonasal (100 %), pterygopalatine fossa (55.56 %), orbital (44.45 %), and cerebral (5.56 %) involvement. All patients underwent serial surgical debridement (3.78 ± 1.80 times; range 2-8) simultaneously with systemic antifungal therapy and proper management of the underlying disease. The most extreme case with brain involvement survived and recovered with no evidence of recurrent disease following treatment. All patients were considered cured after two endoscopic negative histopathologic evaluations. Three patients (16.67 %) died, one from uncontrolled leukemia and two due to renal failure. AIFRS is a potentially fatal condition, however, early diagnosis and management of the underlying disease accompanied with systemic antifungal and aggressive serial surgical intervention appears to be effective in reducing mortality in most patients.

Bacterial infection is considered a predisposing factor for disorders of the biliary tract. This study aimed to determine the diversity of bacterial communities in bile samples and their involvement in the occurrence of biliary tract diseases. A total of 102 bile samples were collected during endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). Characterization of bacteria was done using culture and polymerase chain reaction-denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (PCR-DGGE) methods. Antimicrobial susceptibility of the isolates was determined based on the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) guidelines and identity of the nucleotide sequences of differentiated bands from the DGGE gels was determined based on GenBank data. In total, 41.2 % (42/102) of the patients showed bacterial infection in their bile samples. This infection was detected in 21 % (4/19), 45.4 % (5/11), 53.5 % (15/28), and 54.5 % (24/44) of patients with common bile duct stone, microlithiasis, malignancy, and gallbladder stone, respectively. Escherichia coli showed a significant association with gallstones. Polymicrobial infection was detected in 48 % of the patients. While results of the culture method established coexistence of biofilm-forming bacteria (Pseudomonas aeruginosa, E. coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Enterococcus spp., and Acinetobacter spp.) in different combinations, the presence of Capnocytophaga spp., Lactococcus spp., Bacillus spp., Staphylococcus haemolyticus, Enterobacter or Citrobacter spp., Morganella spp., Salmonella spp., and Helicobacter pylori was also characterized in these samples by the PCR-DGGE method. Multidrug resistance phenotypes (87.5 %) and resistance to third- and fourth-generation cephalosporins and quinolones were common in these strains, which could evolve through their selection by bile components. Ability for biofilm formation seems to be a need for polymicrobial infection in this organ.

Introduction: The coexistence of asthma and chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is more common than expected given their individual prevalence in the general population and may affect patient's quality of life. The aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of asthma in chronic rhinosinusitis in Mashhad, Northeast Iran., Materials and Methods: This study was performed in two university hospital from November 2012 for 12 months. In total, 153 patients with chronic rhinosinusitis were enrolled and referred to a particular pulmonologist for asthma evaluation., Results: The mean age of participants was 40.54±13.11 years, and 41.8% were male. In total, 63.4% of patients had the polypoid form of CRS. The proportion of patients in this study with asthma was 41.8%, compared with a general asthma prevalence in this region of 13.5%., Conclusion: There is a high prevalence of asthma among patients with CRS, but it often remains undiagnosed. Asthma in CRS patients should be diagnosed and treated in order to improve patient's quality of life. We recommend an evaluation of the lower airways in all of these patients as well as further studies in this field.

Analysis of L-tryptophan (Trp) in biological samples has great importance for biomedical studies. Amino acid tyrosine (Tyr) that usually coexist with Trp in biological fluids can significantly interfere with reliable determination of Trp. In the current study, we demonstrate the development of two ultra-sensitive electrochemical sensor and label-free aptasensor for selective analysis of Trp in biological samples (i.e., cow's milk and human plasma, saliva and urine samples). In addition, without using AgCl/KCl, an Ag pseudo-reference screen printed electrode (Ag-PR-SPE) was exploited as a reference electrode. To prepare the engineered Trp sensor/aptasensor, a gold SPE was first modified with multiwall carbon nanotube (MWCNT-AuSPE) and then armed with Trp aptamer molecules (Apt-MWCNT-AuSPE). The prepared sensors were characterized using constant current-potentiometric stripping analysis (CC-PSA) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). The MWCNT-AuSPE and Apt-MWCNT-AuSPE were compared with respect to the linear detection range, limit of detection (LOD), accuracy, precision, repeatability. MWCNT-AuSPE and Apt-MWCNT-AuSPE demonstrate fast near-Nernstian response for PSA of Trp over the concentration ranging from 1.0 × 10(-9) to 2.0 × 10(-4) mol L(-1) and 1.0 × 10(-11) to 1.0 × 10(-4) mol L(-1) with detection limits of 3.6 × 10(-10) mol L(-1) and 4.9 × 10(-12) mol L(-1), respectively. Common interfering species present in the biological fluids (i.e., tyrosine, uric acid, ascorbic acid) showed no effects on the determination of Trp using CC-PSA. MWCNT-AuSPE and Apt-MWCNT-AuSPE represented well reproducibility and great precision with relative standard deviation (RSD) of 2.9% and 5.3% respectively. In comparison with the MWCNT-AuSPE, Apt-MWCNT-AuSPE provided higher sensitivity, selectivity and accuracy of Trp detection in real samples. Based on these findings, we propose the developed Apt-MWCNT-AuSPE as a simple detection method for analysis of Trp in biological samples., (Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

In this paper, preparation, characterization and application of a new sensor for fast and simple determination of trace amount of diazepam were described. This sensor is based on Ag nanodendrimers (AgNDs) supported by graphene nanosheets modified glassy carbon electrode (GNs/GCE). The AgNDs were directly electrodeposited on the surface of electrode via potentiostatic method without using any templates, surfactants, or stabilizers. The structure of the synthesized AgNDs/GNs was characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis, X-ray diffraction (XRD) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) techniques. The nanodendrimers with tree-like and hierarchical structures have a fascinating structure for fabrication of effective electrocatalysts. The experimental results confirmed that AgNDs/GNs/GC electrode has good electrocatalytic activity toward the reduction of diazepam. A low detection limit of 8.56×10(-8)M and a wide linear detection range of 1.0×10(-7) to 1.0×10(-6)M and 1.0×10(-6) to 20×10(-6)M were achieved via differential pulse voltammetry (DPV). The proposed electrode displayed excellent repeatability and long-term stability and it was satisfactorily used for determination of diazepam in real samples (commercially tablet, injection and human blood plasma) with high recovery., (Copyright © 2015. Published by Elsevier B.V.)

Introduction: Adenotonsillar hypertrophy (AH) is considered the most common cause of upper respiratory tract obstruction among children. It results in a spectrum of symptoms from mouth breathing, nasal obstruction, hyponasal speech, snoring, and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) to growth failure and cardiovascular morbidity. Adenotonsillectomy is a typical strategy for patients with AH, but may lead to serious complications such as bleeding (4-5%) and postoperative respiratory compromise (27%), especially among young children, as well as recurrence of adenoid tissue (10-20%). Thus, non-surgical therapies have attracted considerable attention as an alternative strategy. The inflammatory mechanism proposed for AH has lead to the use of anti-inflammatory drugs to manage this condition. The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of chewable tablets of montelukast, a cysteinyl- leukotriene receptor antagonist, in children with AH., Materials and Methods: Sixty children between the ages of 4-12 years with >75% choanal obstruction on primary nasal endoscopy were recruited in this randomized, placebo-controlled trial and randomly divided into two groups. The study group was treated with montelukast 5 mg daily for 12 weeks while the control group received matching placebo for the same period of time. A questionnaire was completed by each child's parent/guardian to assess the severity of sleep discomfort, snoring, and mouth breathing before and after the intervention., Results: Adenoid size decreased in 76% of the study group compared with 3% of the placebo group after 12 weeks. A statically significant improvement was observed in the study group compared with the placebo group in terms of sleep discomfort, snoring, and mouth breathing. The symptoms average total score dropped from 7.7 to 3.3 in the study group, while in the placebo group the total score changed from 7.4 to 6.7., Conclusion: Montelukast chewable tablets achieved a significant reduction in adenoid size and improved the related clinical symptoms of AH and can therefore be considered an effective alternative to surgical treatment in children with adenoid hypertrophy.

Introduction: The incidence of malnutrition in hospitalized patients is reported to be high. In particular, patients with esophageal cancer are prone to malnutrition, due to preoperative digestive system dysfunctions and short-term non-oral feeding postoperatively. Selection of an appropriate method for feeding in the postoperative period is important in these patients., Materials and Methods: In this randomized clinical trial, 40 patients with esophageal cancer who had undergone esophagectomy between September 2008 and October 2009 were randomly assigned into either enteral feeding or parenteral feeding groups, with the same calorie intake in each group. The level of serum total protein, albumin, prealbumin, transferrin, C3, C4 and hs-C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), as well as the rate of surgical complications, restoration of bowel movements and cost was assessed in each group., Results: Our results showed that there was no significant difference between the groups in terms of serum albumin, prealbumin or transferrin. However, C3 and C4 levels were significantly higher in the enteral feeding group compared with the parenteral group, while hs-CRP level was significantly lower in the enteral feeding group. Bowel movements were restored sooner and costs of treatment were lower in the enteral group. Postoperative complications did not differ significantly between the groups. There was one death in the parenteral group 10 days after surgery due to myocardial infarction., Conclusion: The results of our study showed that enteral feeding can be used effectively in the first days after surgery, with few early complications and similar nutritional outcomes compared with the parenteral method. Enteral feeding was associated with reduced inflammation and was associated with an improvement in immunological responses, quicker return of bowel movements, and reduced costs in comparison with parenteral feeding.

Introduction: Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment is required in esophageal cancer due to its invasive nature. The aim of this study was to evaluate early post-esophagectomy complications in patients with esophageal cancer who received neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (NACR)., Materials and Methods: This randomized clinical trial was carried out between 2009 and 2011. Patients with lower-third esophageal cancer were randomly assigned to one of two groups. The first group consisted of 50 patients receiving standard chemoradiotherapy (Group A) and then undergoing surgery, and the second group consisted of 50 patients undergoing surgery only (Group B). Patients were evaluated with respect to age, gender, clinical symptoms, type of pathology, time of surgery, perioperative blood loss, and number of lymph nodes resected as well as early post-operative complicate including leakage at the anastomosis site, chylothorax and pulmonary complications, hospitalization period, and mortality rate within the first 30 days after surgery., Results: The mean age of patients was 55 years. Seventy-two patients had squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and 28 patients had adenocarcinoma (ACC). There was no significant difference between the two groups with respect to age, gender, time of surgery, complications including anastomotic leakage, chylothorax, pulmonary complications, cardiac complications, deep venous thrombosis (DVT), or mortality. However, there was a significant difference between the two groups regarding hospital stay, time of surgery, perioperative blood loss, and number of lymph nodes resected., Conclusion: The use of NACR did not increase early post-operative complications or mortality among patients with esophageal cancer.

Electrophoresis treatment was used to improve the function of a nano-TiO2 modified sol-gel electrode. Electrodes were prepared using TiO2 nanoparticles and fine graphite powder and then treated by electrophoresis. The developed electrode was employed for the detection of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) by following the decrease in the immobilised lactate peak current due to its LDH-mediated enzymatic oxidation. Detection was realised using square wave voltammetry (SWV). Experiments showed that the positive and negative heads of the electrophoresis-treated electrode displayed different activities, with the positive head response being remarkably improved. Parameters affecting the electrode response, such as applied potential value, electrophoresis time and percentage of TiO2, were investigated and optimised. The improved performance was dependent on TiO2 concentration as well as electrophoresis voltage and time. The prepared sensor, under optimised conditions, displayed a detection limit of 0.0073 U/μl for LDH.

Background and aims. Although salivary gland tumors are not very common, early diagnosis and treatment is crucial because of their proximity to vital organs, and therefore, determining the efficacy of new imaging procedures becomes important. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and color doppler ultrasonography parameters in the diagnosis and differentiation of benign and malignant salivary gland tumors. Materials and methods. In this cross-sectional study, color doppler ultrasonography and MRI were performed for 22 patients with salivary gland tumor. Demographic data as well as MRI, color doppler ultrasonography, and surgical parameters including tumor site, signal in MRI images, ultrasound echo, tumor border, lymphadenopathy, invasion, perfusion, vascular resistance index (RI), vascular pulse index (PI) were analyzed using Chi-square test, Fisher's exact test, and independent t-test. Results. The mean age of patients was 46.59±13.97 years (8 males and 14females). Patients with malignant tumors were older (P < 0.01). The most common tumors were pleomorphic adenoma (36.4%), metastasis (36.4%), and mucoepidermoid carcinoma (9%). Nine tumors (40.9%) were benign and 13 (59.1%) were malignant. The overall accuracy of MRI and color doppler ultrasonography in determining tumor site was 100% and 95%, respectively. No significant difference observed between RI and PI and the diagnosis of tumor. Conclusion. Both MRI and ultrasonography have high accuracy in the localization of tumors. Well-identified border was a sign of benign tumors. Also, invasion to adjacent structures was a predictive factor for malignancy.

The purpose of this study was to cephalometrically evaluate the facial soft-tissue characteristics of adolescent patients with bilateral cleft lip and palate (BCLP) and to compare them with a noncleft control group. Lateral cephalometric radiographs obtained from 56 adolescents with nonsyndromic BCLP (29 boys and 27 girls) were analyzed and compared with 67 control subjects (29 boys and 38 girls) who were matched for sex, age, and ethnicity. All patients had been operated on before the age of 2 years for the surgical repair of cleft lip and palate. None had received any orthopedic or orthodontic treatment. Independent-samples t test revealed that patients with BCLP significantly differed from the control group by having a flatter facial profile, thinner and more retruded nasal base, flatter nasal tip (in males), and reduced upper-lip length. Furthermore, thicker lower-lip pit, shallower mentolabial sulcus, and increased inclination angles of the upper and lower lips relative to the horizontal plane were observed in female patients compared with the normal group. The findings of the current study suggested that adolescent patients with BCLP showed several facial soft-tissue deformities when compared with normal individuals with the same age, sex, and ethnic origin. This study provides objective measures that could lead to better treatment planning and prediction of the need for corrective surgeries in patients with BCLP.

Allergic fungal sinusitis (AFS) is a noninvasive form of fungal rhinosinusitis with a prevalence of 6-9 % among all rhinosinusitis cases requiring surgery. The fungi causing AFRS have a great diversity and regional variation in the incidence of AFS has been reported worldwide. The aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of AFS among rhinosinusitis patients in the north east of Iran. In a prospective cross-sectional study 127 patients with sinonasal polyposis who were candidates for surgery were recruited. All cases were evaluated by sinonasal CT scan, Prick test for common regional allergens, total serum immunoglobulin E (IgE) level, and allergic mucin culture for fungi in suspected cases. Data analyses were done using SPSS version 13.0. Their mean age was 37.4 ± 11.6 years, the male-to-female ratio was 69/58. Eleven patients (9.45 %) met the AFS criteria. Nine cases had a positive culture for Aspergillus specimen and three for Alternaria. Prick test was positive for at least one allergen in 28 cases (22.05 %). The most common allergen was weed. The total IgE level was significantly higher in AFS patients. This study showed the prevalence of AFS among patients with nasal polyposis to be 9.45 %.

The aim of the present study was to investigate the prevalence of dental anomalies in a group of patients with cleft lip and palate (CL/P) in the northeast of Iran. Ninety-one patients referring to the Cleft Lip and Palate Clinic of Mashhad Dental School were enrolled and classified into right CL/P, left CL/P, and bilateral CL/P groups. Photographs, dental casts, and panoramic and periapical radiographs were retrieved, and dental anomalies were recorded. χ test was used to analyze the frequency of dental anomalies according to type of cleft and sex. Missing maxillary lateral incisors was the most frequent dental anomaly, which was slightly higher in the bilateral group (61.1%). There were significantly more cases of missing lateral incisors outside the cleft area in right CL/P (P = 0.015). Peg lateral incisors were observed in 33.3% of bilateral CL/P compared with 28% of right and 23.3% of left unilateral cases. The sample presented rotations of central incisors in the cleft area in 33.3% of bilateral clefts. In unilateral clefts, it occurred more frequently in the right side (48%). Sexual dimorphism appeared only for maxillary central incisor rotation in the cleft area, which showed significantly greater frequency in females (P = 0.025). Transposition of maxillary canine and first premolars was found in 5.5% of bilateral, 8% of right, and 3.3% of left unilateral clefts. The prevalence of dental anomalies in the studied sample seems to be higher than that reported in the normal population. More anomalies were observed at the cleft side. The frequency of most anomalies was not significantly different between the 2 sexes.