Search

Objectives: White spot lesions are more susceptible to staining agents due to their porous structure. This study examines the impact of white spot lesion treatments on discoloration caused by pediatric supplements. Method and materials: Three treatments (fluoride, casein phosphopeptide-amorphous calcium phosphate [CPP-ACP], resin infiltration), a control, and their respective syrup-based subgroups (iron and black elderberry syrups) were established, each with eight teeth. Artificial white spot lesions were induced, and weekly applications of fluoride varnish, daily applications of CPP-ACP paste, or a single resin infiltration procedure were performed on the white spot lesions within the treatment groups over 4 weeks. Simultaneously, samples were exposed daily to iron or black elderberry syrups. Spectrophotometer measurements were taken at baseline, after demineralization (T0), and after 1 (T1), 2 (T2), and 4 weeks (T4). ΔE00 values were calculated. Statistical analysis was conducted using a three-way mixed-design ANOVA, with the significance level set at P = .05. Results: At T4, ΔE00 values from all groups exceeded the clinical acceptability limit of 1.8. At T2 and T4, the ΔE00 values obtained from the black elderberry syrup subgroups were significantly higher (P < .001). At T4, the highest ΔE00 values were seen in the CPP-ACP groups (P < .001). The lowest ΔE00 values at T2 and T4 were observed in the resin infiltration groups (P < .05). Conclusions: Supplements containing ferrous sulfate and black elderberry extract caused color changes in white spot lesions that exceeded the clinical acceptability limit. Resin infiltration of white spot lesions provides advantages over remineralization treatments, particularly in minimizing discoloration induced by pediatric supplements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article evaluated tooth discoloration after the use of calcium silicate-based materials to examine the effect of internal bleaching on tooth discoloration. The specimens were randomly divided into two experimental groups (n = 45) and a control group (n = 6). Cavities were filled with ProRoot MTA (Dentsply Sirona) in Group 1 and Biodentine (Septodont) in Group 2. Color measurements were taken with a spectrophotometer before and after the application of materials at 1 week, 13 weeks, and 6 months. After 6 months, Groups 1 and 2 were divided into three subgroups according to internal bleaching techniques. All color change ratios and lightness differences were calculated using the CIE L*a*b* system. Data were analyzed using repeated ANOVA and Kruskal-Wallis test (P = .05). There were statistically significant differences between Groups 1 and 2 at all time intervals (P < .05). Group 1 showed more discoloration than Group 2 (P < .05). There were no significant differences between the bleaching agents (P > .05). Additionally, specimens in both groups became lighter than their initial color (P < .05). Teeth treated with ProRoot MTA exhibited darkening at 1 week that increased over time, whereas those treated with Biodentine maintained the lightness for 6 months. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to clinically evaluate the effectiveness of two different at-home whitening protocols and to determine which is more effective: applying the whitening gel (16% carbamide peroxide) every 24 hours (Group A) or every 48 hours (Group B) for 2 weeks. Group C received a placebo gel (glycerin) without peroxide, which was applied every 24 hours for 2 weeks. The differences in terms of tooth sensitivity were also analyzed. A sample of 60 patients was divided into three groups of 20 patients. To compare the groups, color measurements were made using a spectrophotometer, and Student t test was used for independent samples. The confidence level was set at 95% (P ≤ .05). No statistically significant differences were found between Groups A and B (P > .05). The study concluded that 16% carbamide peroxide was equally effective when applied with either protocol and obtained the same results, but the 48-hour application protocol produced less sensitivity than the 24-hour application protocol. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The developments and innovations in green miniaturized technologies suggest that a complete miniature approach (MA) to determine organic carbon (OC) and phosphorus (P) in soils may enable handling a large number of samples. In comparison to the conventional approach (CA), this approach also reduces waste generation and analysis costs. Here we have miniaturized all the steps of the conventional analytical procedures for OC and P analysis and carried out an in-depth validation of MA on various aspects, including linearity, biases, precision, inaccuracy, and imprecision. This rigorous assessment aimed to delineate the effect of miniaturization on the quality of determination along with its associated benefits and limitations. The findings revealed a strong correlation between the MA and CA in the OC test, indicating an R2 >0.84, with the Deming regression producing a model equation demonstrating a highly significant slope and an intercept closely approximating zero. Similarly, the P values obtained by MA and CA exhibited a correlation with an R2 > 0.99, alongside the Deming regression displaying a minimal intercept and a slope approaching one. The Bland–Altman analysis indicated a mean bias of 0.01 (95% CI, −0.51 to 0.54) for OC values and −1.7 (95% CI, −9.04 to 5.57) for P values. This cross-validation study highlights the applicability and limitations of the MA in estimating OC and P levels across a diverse range of soils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acetamiprid is mainly used to control pests. However, the residues of acetamiprid have resulted in significant negative effects on mammals. Many researchers are working on developing acetamiprid detection methods. In our study, four truncated aptamers were designed based on the secondary structure of the original aptamer. Molecular docking simulation of truncated aptamers confirmed that all of the truncated aptamers bind to acetamiprid, and their binding sites were identified. The affinity, sensitivity, and specificity of these truncated aptamers were measured by a spectrophotometric method with gold nanoparticles (AuNPs). Acetamiprid aptamers with 17-mer (Apt-J2) and 16-mer (Apt-J4) were successfully obtained, which show higher detection sensitivity and satisfactory specificity. Additionally, a spectrophotometric detection route superior to the original aptamer was explored, and the linear ranges were from 1 to 70 μM and 0.5 to 40 μM, respectively. The truncated aptamers were applied to the analysis of lake water, indicating that the aptamers have potential for practical analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction Current standards for hemoglobin monitoring during air transports of U.S. combat wounded are invasive and intermittent. Fielded pulse co-oximeters can noninvasively measure total hemoglobin, but this parameter is not currently utilized. The primary objective of this study was to assess the percentage of vital sign measurements with successful capture of total noninvasive hemoglobin measurement using spectrophotometry-based technology for Hb (SpHb) measurements in healthy participants during training flights. Secondary objectives were to assess the feasibility of a novel electronic data capture mechanism from usual patient movement items and perform a pilot analysis of SpHb changes in healthy participants during transitions from ground to air transport. Methods We conducted a feasibility study enrolling healthy participants who had hemodynamic monitoring during usual U.S. Air Force Critical Care Air Transport (CCAT) flight training exercises from 2022 to 2023. Usual CCAT monitoring equipment and currently used Masimo Rainbow® pulse co-oximeters had the capability to measure SpHb. After each training exercise, the study team wirelessly downloaded case files from patient monitors utilizing the Battlefield Assisted Trauma Distributed Observation Kit (BATDOKTM) Case Downloader application. We then calculated point and precision estimates for the percentage of time for successful SpHb capture during the exercise and compared this to pulse oximetry (SpO2) capture. An a priori precision analysis for percentage of flight-time with successful SpHb data capture and descriptive statistics were performed. This study received Exempt Determination by the 59th Medical Wing IRB. Results We analyzed 26 records with mean monitoring durations of 94.5 [59.3-119.9] minutes during ground phases and 78.0 [59.9-106.5] minutes during flight phases. SpHb measures were successfully captured for 97.7% (n  = 4,620) of possible ground measurements and 97.2% (n  = 3,973) of possible in-flight measurements compared to 99.5% ground and 98.2% in-flight capture for SpO2. Mean intervals of missing SpHb data were 2 ± 5 minutes on the ground and 4 ± 6 minutes in-flight. Mean SpHb increased by 0.93 ± 0.96 g/dL during the ground phase, but had minimal changes during ascent, cruising altitude or descent. The BATDOKTM Case downloader completed transfer for all files. Conclusion Masimo Rainbow® SpHb pulse co-oximeters reliably captured continuous, noninvasive hemoglobin measurements using usual CCAT patient movement items in healthy participants during both ground and flight training. The BATDOKTM Case Downloader successfully imported case files from CCAT patient monitors. Mean SpHb measures had a small increase during the ground phase of monitoring followed by minimal changes when transitioning to flight altitude. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study is aimed at measuring nitrate levels in different vegetables from Tehran's markets that are consumed raw and fresh and to evaluate human health risk. Basil, parsley, radish leaves, cress, leek, radish, spring onion were randomly collected from local markets and the nitrate content was analysed by spectrophotometry. Average nitrate levels in the samples were 40.1, 45.2, 50.0, 51.8, 55.4, 90.2 and 110 mg kg−1 in parsley, leek, basil, radish leaves, cress, radish and spring onion, respectively. The average content in all samples was below Iranian standard limits. Tuber vegetables had significantly higher nitrate content than (green) leafy vegetables. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Iodide has long been recognized as an effective shape-directing agent for facilitating the growth of anisotropic noble metal nanostructures. However, little attention has been paid to the specific interaction between iodide and metal nanoparticles. In this study, we demonstrate the selective recognition of iodide in solution by the carbon-dot-gold nanoparticles (Cdot-AuNPs) ensemble. Irregularly-shaped AuNPs were generated through the reduction of HAuCl4 by citrate ions and stabilized by Cdot at ambient temperature. Upon the addition of iodide, the color of the solution changed from blue to red with the growth of AuNPs to semi-spherical nanoparticles, as confirmed by transmission electron microscopy. The selectivity test validated that only iodide could induce this specific visual response, highlighting a novel interaction mechanism between iodide and AuNPs. The recognition of iodide by this Cdot-AuNPs ensemble showed good resistance toward many environmentally relevant metal ions, particularly Ca2+, providing potential for the identification of iodide ions in real samples. Mixing tetrachloroauric acid, sodium citrate, and bee pollen-derived carbon dots (Cdot) at ambient temperature leads to the preparation of Cdot-AuNPs ensemble for the specific colorimetric recognition of iodide by reshaping the dimensions of the AuNPs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: High-flow nasal cannula (HFNC) systems employ different methods to provide aerosol to patients. This study compared delivery efficiency, particle size, and regional deposition of aerosolized bronchodilators during HFNC in neonatal, pediatric, and adult upper-airway and lung models between a proximal aerosol adapter and distal aerosol circuit chamber. METHODS: A filter was connected to the upper airway to a spontaneously breathing lung model. Albuterol was nebulized using the aerosol adapter and circuit at different clinical flow settings. The aerosol mass deposited in the upper airway and lung was quantified. Particle size was measured with a laser diffractometer. Regional deposition was assessed with a gamma camera at each nebulizer location and patient model with minimum flow settings. RESULTS: Inhaled lung doses ranged from 0.2-0.8% for neonates, 0.2-2.2% for the small child, and 0.5-5.2% for the adult models. Neonatal inhaled lung doses were not different between the aerosol circuit and adapter, but the aerosol circuit showed marginally greater lung doses in the pediatric and adult patient models. Impacted aerosols and condensation in the non-heated HFNC and aerosol delivery components contributed to the dispersion of coarse liquid droplets, high deposition (11-44%), and occlusion of the supine neonatal upper airway. In contrast, the upright pediatric and adult upper-airway models had minimal deposition (0.3-7.0%) and high fugitive losses (~24%) from liquid droplets leaking out of the nose. The high impactive losses in the aerosol adapter (56%) were better contained than in the aerosol circuit, resulting in less cannula sputter (5% vs 22%), fewer fugitive losses (18% vs 24%), and smaller inhaled aerosols (5 µm vs 13 µm). CONCLUSIONS: The inhaled lung dose was low (1-5%) during HFNC. Approaches that streamline aerosol delivery are needed to provide safe and effective therapy to patients receiving aerosolized medications with this HFNC system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Intrapulmonary percussive ventilation (IPV) is frequently used for airway clearance, together with delivery of aerosolized medications. Drug delivery via IPV alone increases with decreasing percussion frequency and correlates with tidal volume (VT), whereas drug delivery via IPV during invasive ventilation is not well characterized. We hypothesized that drug delivery via IPV-invasive ventilation would differ from IPV alone due to control of ventilation by invasive ventilation. METHODS: An adult ventilator circuit was used for IPV-invasive ventilation. A normal or a diseased lung model was configured to airway resistance of 5 cm H2O/L/s and lung compliance of 100 mL/cm H2O or to airway resistance of 20 cm H2O/L/s and lung compliance of 50 mL/cm H2O, respectively. The ventilator settings were the following: pressure control continuous mandatory ventilation mode, 10 breaths/min; PEEP, 5 cm H2O; ..., 0.21; inspiratory time, 1 s; no bias flow; and inspiratory pressure, 10 or 15 cm H2O for the normal or the diseased lung model, respectively, to reach VT 500 mL with IPV off. Albuterol nebulized from an IPV device was captured in a filter placed before the lung model and quantitated by spectrophotometry. RESULTS: The maximum efficiency of albuterol delivery via IPV-invasive ventilation was not different from that via IPV alone (mean ± SD of loading dose, 3.7 ± 0.2% vs 4.2 ± 0.3%, respectively; P = .12). The mean ± SD albuterol delivery efficiency with IPV-invasive ventilation was lower for the diseased lung model versus the normal model (1.6 ± 0.3% vs 3.2 ± 0.5%; P < .001), which increased with decreasing percussion frequency. In contrast, the mean ± SD was lower for the normal lung model versus the diseased model (401 ± 14 mL vs 470 ± 11 mL; P < .001). CONCLUSIONS: Albuterol delivery via IPV-invasive ventilation was modulated by percussion frequency but was not increased with increasing VT. The delivery efficiency was not sufficiently high for clinical use, in part due to nebulizer retention and extrapulmonary deposition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development and validation of two uncomplicated, selective, and non-extraction-based visible spectrophotometric methods was carried out for the quantification of a tricyclic antidepressant amitriptyline hydrochloride as pharmaceutical tablets as well as in its pure form. The methods rely on the formation of ion pair complexes between amitriptyline base and two acidic dyes, bromothymol blue and bromocresol purple, which were subsequently measured at 410 and 400 nm, respectively. The developed methods included numerous reaction variables that were examined and improved. Beer's law is applicable under optimal conditions for the bromothymol blue and bromocresol purple methods, respectively, over concentrations from 0.5 to 12.5 μg mL−1 and from 0.5 to 10.0 μg mL−1 amitriptyline hydrochloride. The computed values of molar absorptivity were 1.79 × 104 and 2.32 × 104 L.mol−1.cm−1 for bromothymol blue and bromocresol purple methods, respectively, with Sandell's sensitivity values of 0.0155 and 0.0119 μg cm−2. Both detection limits and quantification limits were computed and determined to be 0.55 and 1.67 μg mL−1 for bromothymol blue method, and 0.49 and 1.49 μg mL−1 for bromocresol purple method, respectively. The developed methods were successfully applied to estimate the concentration of amitriptyline hydrochloride in bulk form and commercial pills. Therefore, these methods demonstrate promising potential for testing this drug in labs for quality control. Spectrophotometric quantification of amitriptyline hydrochloride in pharmaceutical tablets: method development and validation [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Chinese Journal of Inorganic Analytical Chemistry / Zhongguo Wuji Fenxi Huaxue is the property of Beijing Research Institute of Mining & Metallurgy Technology Group and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Objective: Diabetic individuals have a higher probability of suffering from illness and death due to small blood vessel-related problems such as retinopathy, neuropathy, nephropathy, and stroke than other complications. There are many synthetic anti-diabetic agents available, but these can be expensive and have undesirable pathological effects. The enzyme α-amylase (hydrolase), catalyzes the hydrolysis of starch to maltose and glucose via the cleavage of α-1,4-glucosidic linkages. Diabetes mellitus patients may benefit from a therapeutic strategy that involves slowing the hydrolysis of starch by inhibiting the activity of α-amylase. Thus, looking for cost-effective, natural, and safe antidiabetic agents is essential. This study aims to screen phytoconstituents and evaluate the in-vitro and in-silico α-amylase inhibitory activity of the ethanolic extract of Adhatoda vasica leaves. Methods: The extraction of Adhatoda vasica leaves was performed using ethanol via the Soxhlet extraction process. Different concentrations (100 μg/mL to 1000 μg/mL) of ethanolic extract, Acarbose, and Sitagliptin, were prepared and evaluated for α-amylase inhibitory activity using the spectrophotometric method. Molecular docking (AutodockVina 1.2.0) and toxicity profiling (SToPToX web server) studies were performed. Results: The ethanolic extract of Adhatoda vasica leaves showed the highest percentage inhibition against α-amylase (56.763 ± 0.0035) at a concentration of 1000 μg/mL. The in-silico study supported this inhibitory activity. Vasicoline (C5) and Quercetin (C9), the active constitute of Adhatoda vasica, showed the best binding energies of −8.3 and −8.0 Kcal/mol, respectively against α-amylase enzyme (PDBID: 4W93). A toxicity study revealed the safety profile of the plant extract. Conclusion: It was concluded that Adhatoda vasica leaves possess some bioactive compounds that are responsible for controlling blood glucose levels, and their identification, purification, and isolation may lead to the development of new therapeutic agents with fewer side effects than the available drugs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractThis study presents a novel interdisciplinary approach for characterizing the optical properties of nanostructured silver films, combining methodologies from polarized light spectroscopy (PLS) and mobile app-based spectroscopic image detection. Silver nanofilms were deposited using electron beam evaporation (EBE) and subsequently analyzed for their absorbance across the visible light spectrum through PLS spectroscopy. The innovative aspect of this study lies in the validation of PLS spectral data using a mobile application developed with MIT App Inventor, which analyzes the intensity of light beams captured in images taken by a smartphone. The findings indicate that the silver nanofilm exhibits peak absorbance at approximately 400 nm within the violet region, corroborated by the mobile app’s data, which shows the lowest light intensity. However, discrepancies were observed from 500 to 600 nm, likely due to ambient light interferences and inherent optical phenomena such as diffraction, reflection, and refraction. Despite these deviations, the app’s readings closely align with the PLS data, supporting the film’s selective absorption properties. This study demonstrates the potential of this multidisciplinary technique in nanomaterial research, highlighting the application of nanotechnology in material science and the transformative potential of integrating software engineering for in-depth material characterization. These findings open avenues for advancements in both academic and practical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The combination of an optical probe and single-drop direct immersion microextraction (DI-SDME-OP) was used for the preconcentration and subsequent spectrophotometric determination of rhodamine 6G (Rh6G). The developed method is based on the formation of an ionic associate between Rh6G and picric acid at pH 3.0 and its extraction with amyl acetate. A microdrop of the organic phase was stably placed in the hole of an optical probe immersed in the sample solution. The absorbance of the extraction phase was monitored at 534 nm. The proposed method combines in a single step several stages of the analytical procedure, such as pre-concentration, phase separation, transfer of the extraction phase to the instrument and online measurement. The sensitivity of the proposed approach is not inferior to existing microextraction methods involving the combination of liquid-phase or solid-phase extraction with spectrophotometry or HPLC with a UV-Vis detector. The evaluation of the greenness of the developed method carried out by the AGREE method (0.58 points) showed that it outperforms other similar existing techniques using this parameter. The calibration plot for the determination of Rh6G by the DI-SDME-OP method was linear over the range of 10–500 nM with a correlation coefficient of 0.9956. The limit of detection was 3.4 nM. The accuracy and applicability of the method were evaluated by the determination of Rh6G in natural waters and lipstick. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Normal‐phase (NP) liquid chromatography is one of the most effective methods for separating isomers with sensitive structural features, including xanthophyll isomers. In this work, reverse‐phase (RP) and NP liquid chromatography (LC), with silica gel and diol phase, respectively, were evaluated for the separation of xanthophyll isomers. The results showed that RP LC with monomeric C18 phase not only poorly separate all xanthophyll isomers in egg yolk but also requires additional sample preparation to eliminate triacylglycerols in egg yolk. The diol phase of NP‐LC provided the highest efficiency for separating lutein, zeaxanthin, and their cis‐isomers with isocratic separation using mobile phases consisting of n‐hexane and polar modifiers (such as acetone, methyl tert‐butyl ether, or ethyl acetate). To determine the xanthophyll content, peak areas from LC and total absorbance from spectrophotometry measurements were used. The approach was applied to analyze the xanthophylls of nine commercial egg samples. The results revealed that five out of nine analyzed samples contained a high level of canthaxanthin, which contributes to color enhancement but not to prevent age‐related macular degeneration. Together, it shows that NP LC with diol phase combined with spectrophotometry is a powerful tool to monitor xanthophylls in eggs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Patients who undergo transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) may become pale during the early postoperative period. To clarify whether facial colors changed during the postoperative period, patients' skin color from before to 72 h after TAVI was measured spectrophotometrically. Factors associated with skin color were also investigated. Forehead skin color and vital signs were measured before TAVI and at 6, 18, and 72 h after TAVI in 11 patients scheduled for TAVI. Blood examinations were performed before and 18 and 72 h after TAVI. Skin color was assessed using a spectrophotometer and expressed as L* (lightness), a* (red/green), and b* (yellow/blue) according to the CIE1976L*a*b* color space. Skin lightness L* values increased at 6 and 18 h after TAVI and returned at 72 h after TAVI and a* values decreased at 6 h after TAVI. The b* values did not change perioperatively during TAVI. No associations were observed between the changes in skin color and changes in BP or laboratory data. The findings that the skin color became whitish and less reddish in the early postoperative period resembled that occurring during an acute inflammatory response. Observation of skin color is important to detect the possibility of postoperative complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A spectrophotometric method has been employed to study micellization of nonionic surfactants (NSs), namely, polyoxyethylated alkylphenols, Triton X-100 (TX-100) and Triton X-114 (TX-114), in aqueous solutions. The spectral characteristics have been calculated for the curves of light absorption by surfactant solutions in concentration ranges of 0.02–0.80 and 0.02–0.40 mmol/L for TX-100 and TX-114, respectively. The influence of the steps of scanning along the wavelength scale (0.1, 0.2, 0.5, and 1.0 nm) on the positions of the maxima and the intensities of the absorption has been studied. The optical density has been found to increase monotonically throughout the concentration range. It has been revealed that, at all scanning steps, a bathochromic shift is observed for the absorption maximum of the long-wavelength band (275 nm) by 1.5 and 2.0 nm for TX-114 and TX-100, respectively, at certain NS concentrations. The curve for the dependence of absorption maximum position on NS concentration exhibits a characteristic inflection, whose position depends on the scanning step. A new method has been proposed for the spectrophotometric determination of the critical micelle concentrations (CMCs) of TX-100 and TX-114 from the dependence of the position of the absorption maximum of the long-wavelength band in the electronic absorption spectrum on the surfactant concentration in an aqueous solution. It has been found that a scanning step of 0.1 nm is optimal for the graphical determination of CMC. The CMC values have been determined for TX-100 and TX-114. The obtained values have appeared to be consistent with the literature data and equal to (0.24 ± 0.02) and (0.20 ± 0.01) mmol/L, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective Background Methods Results Conclusions There is still disagreement about whether to routinely use spectrophotometry to detect xanthochromia in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) or whether visual inspection is adequate. We aimed to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of these methods in detecting an aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage in patients with sudden onset severe headache.When a patient presents to the emergency department with a headache for which there is suspicion of a subarachnoid hemorrhage, the gold standard to rule this out is to perform a CSF analysis for xanthochromia with or without spectrophotometry if the cranial non‐contrast computed tomography (CT) upon admission is negative.Having applied the gold standard, we retrospectively included patients with acute headache who underwent both CT scan and CSF spectrophotometry at our hospital in the period 2002–2020. Patients were excluded if the cranial CT was interpreted as positive, there was a bloody CSF, or if visual assessment data of the CSF was unavailable. We scrutinized the patients’ medical records and evaluated the benefit of spectrophotometry compared to visual inspection. The net bilirubin absorbance cut‐off for support of subarachnoid hemorrhage was set at >0.007 absorbance units. The spectrophotometry was also considered positive if the net bilirubin absorbance was ≤0.007 and net oxyhemoglobin absorbance was ≥0.1 absorbance units. We calculated and compared the sensitivity and specificity of CSF spectrophotometry and visual inspection of the CSF.In total, 769 patients, with a mean age of 42.3 ± (standard deviation [SD] = 17.3) years, were included. The headache onset was classified as a thunderclap headache in 41.5%, and 4.7% had a sudden loss of consciousness. Fifteen patients (2%) were finally diagnosed with a subarachnoid hemorrhage, six (0.8%) had an aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage, seven (0.9%) had a perimesencephalic hemorrhage, one (0.1%) had a cortical cerebral sinus venous thrombosis, and one (0.1%) had a spinal epidural hematoma. Four patients (0.5%) had a subarachnoid hemorrhage that was not detected by visual inspection, and two were caused by an aneurysmal rupture. One of these two patients died just before intervention, and the other underwent coiling for an anterior communicating aneurysm. The number needed for lumbar puncture to detect a subarachnoid hemorrhage was 51, but 128 to detect an aneurysmal hemorrhage. The corresponding numbers needed for CSF spectrophotometric analysis were 192 and 385, respectively. Spectrophotometry was positive in 31 patients (4.0%), of whom 18 (2.3%) also had visually detected xanthochromia (11 true positive). The mean net bilirubin absorbance in the 13 samples with visually clear CSF was 0.0111 ± (SD = 0.0103) absorbance units, compared to 0.0017 ± (SD = 0.0013) in the CSF with negative spectrophotometry. The corresponding figures for net oxyhemoglobin absorbance were 0.0391 ± (SD = 0.0522) versus 0.0057 ± (SD = 0.0081). The sensitivity of spectrophotometric xanthochromia detection was 100% (95% confidence interval [CI], 78–100), compared to 73% (95% CI, 45–92) for visual xanthochromia detection. The specificity of spectrophotometric xanthochromia detection was 98% (95% CI, 97–99) compared to 99% (95% CI, 98–100) for visual xanthochromia detection. Both methods had high negative predictive values: 100% (95% CI, 99.5–100) versus 99.5% (95% CI, 98.6–99.9), respectively.Both visual inspection and spectrophotometry have high diagnostic accuracy for detecting CSF xanthochromia, but the lower sensitivity of visual assessment makes it unreliable, and we recommend the use of spectrophotometry in clinical practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study was aimed at preparing stable dry adsorbed nanoparticles (DANs) of olanzapine (OLZ) loaded solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) for sustained release. OLZ SLNs were prepared by hot melt emulsification and ultrasonication using Precirol ATO 5 (PRE) as a solid lipid, combination of Kolliphor ELP (KELP) and Tween 80 (T80) as surfactants, after optimising formulation and process variables. The SLN system was subjected to evaluation of particle size, zeta potential, entrapment efficiency (EE), in-vitro drug release and ex-vivo intestinal permeability studies using the chicken intestinal segments (jejunum). Further, these SLNs were converted into stable DANs by adsorbing onto a Neusilin US2 (NUS2) and Avicel CL 611 (ACL) carriers using the granulation-evaporative drying method. The DANs were characterised for redispersion properties, in-vitro drug release, thermal behaviour, crystallinity, and morphology. The SLN and DAN had a particle size of 238.0 nm [0.274 polydispersity index (PdI)] and 302.4 [0.494 PdI] respectively. The zeta potentials of SLN and DAN were found to be −29.3 mV and −26.3 mV, respectively. The SLN had 67% EE, and showed a sustained drug release in various media. The highest permeability of SLNs was observed in ex-vivo permeation model compared to the OLZ suspension, indicating that SLNs have the potential to bypass hepatic metabolism. The adsorption of SLNs onto carriers was confirmed by surface morphology. The DAN had good flow properties and sustained drug release similar to that of SLNs. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns and endothermic peaks confirmed the complete encapsulation of actives in lipid matrices. The encapsulating of OLZ in SLNs and converting it into DAN showed a sustained release and adsorption technique that can be used for improving the stability of NLC dispersion. The DANs can be offered in dosage forms such as filling into sachets, capsules and compressed into tablets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Assess color alteration and hydrogen peroxide (HP) penetration in human and bovine teeth using various in‐office bleaching protocols with different application times. Materials and Method s : Thirty healthy human premolars and 30 healthy bovine incisors were divided into five groups and subjected to different bleaching protocols: 2 × 15 min, 1 × 30 min, 2 × 20 min, or 1 × 40 min, with a control group for each tooth type. All teeth were treated with 35% HP gel. Color alteration was measured using digital spectrophotometry before and 1 week after bleaching. HP concentration within the pulp was determined via UV–Vis spectrophotometry. Statistical analysis included one‐way ANOVA, Tukey's, and Dunnett's tests (α = 0.05). Results: All groups exhibited significant color alteration, with no statistically differences among them (p > 0.05). However, significant differences were observed when compared with their respective control groups (p < 0.05). HP penetration into the pulp was evident in all bleached teeth compared to the control groups (p < 0.05), with the 2 × 20 group showing the highest HP levels within the pulp cavity, irrespective of tooth type (p < 0.05). Conclusion: A simplified 1 × 30‐min protocol can be recommended as it effectively maintains color alteration and HP penetration, irrespective of whether human or bovine teeth. Clinical Significance: This study suggests that an in‐office dental bleaching protocol using a 1 × 30‐min session is recommended, as it ensures both effective color change and no increase in the amount of HP penetration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Valcamonica is an Italian Alpine valley that has been the transit route for people and goods in prehistoric, Roman, medieval, and modern times. This led to the presence of artefacts from different eras and/or the occurrence of artefacts made of non-coeval parts. This research reports the characterization of an artefact in the Museum of Breno (Brescia Province). It is surmised that the artwork is made of different and non-coeval parts. The aim of the research is to investigate the natural pigments dyeing the different parts of the artefact, to infer information also on the origin and the dating. The investigation is supported by different analytical techniques (microscopic, spectroscopic, chromatographic, and spectrometric evaluation). The artifact is an Imago Pietatis, with Christ emerging from the tomb with his open arms. Microscopic observation allowed a preliminary evaluation of the colouration and to hypothesize the pigments used. 1H NMR analysis and spectrophotometric analysis suggested the presence of Tyrian purple and logwood (Haematoxylum campechianum) in the background of the sacred image, that was probably a liturgical vestment dismembered and overdyed. It is very likely that the image was in use to a brotherhood of Disciplini, a secular congregation very active in Valcamonica whose activities consisted in praying for the dead and making processions. Our work was important for the narration of this artefact and could be useful for the reconstruction of the object in the original colours, for providing to the local stakeholders a suitable recognition for this historical discovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Foods contaminants pose a challenge for food producers and consumers. Due to its spontaneous formation during heating and storage, hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) is a prevalent contaminant in foods rich in carbohydrates and proteins. Colorimetric assays, such as the Seliwanoff test, offer a rapid and cost-effective method for HMF quantification but require careful optimization to ensure accuracy. We addressed potential interference in the Seliwanoff assay by systematically evaluating parameters like incubation time, temperature, and resorcinol or hydrochloric acid concentration, as well as the presence of interfering carbohydrates. Samples were analyzed using a UV–Vis spectrophotometer in scan mode, and data obtained were validated using HPLC, which also enabled quantification of unreacted HMF for assessing the protocol's accuracy. Incubation time and hydrochloric acid percentage positively influenced the colorimetric assay, while the opposite effect was observed with the increase in resorcinol concentration. Interference from carbohydrates was eliminated by reducing the acid content in the working reagent. HPLC analyses corroborated the spectrophotometer data and confirmed the efficacy of the proposed method. The average HMF content in balsamic vinegar samples was 1.97 ± 0.94 mg/mL. Spectrophotometric approaches demonstrated to efficiently determine HMF in complex food matrices. The HMF levels detected in balsamic vinegars significantly exceeded the maximum limits established for honey. This finding underscores the urgent need for regulations that restrict contaminant levels in various food products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Baccharis myriocephala is a carqueja species less studied than other Baccharis species. This study evaluated the chemical composition, toxicological and antioxidant potentials of the essential oils and infusions of B. myriocephala. Essential oils (hydrodistillation) and the volatile fractions of infusions (SPE) were analyzed by chromatographic techniques. The TPC and TFC of the infusions, and the antioxidant activities of essential oils and infusions were measured by spectrophotometry; their toxicological potentials were evaluated by Artemia salina bioassay (ASB). Twenty-eight terpenic compounds were identified in the essential oils, fourteen of them for the first time. Nine compounds were identified in the volatile fraction of the infusions, and seven of them were absent in essential oils. Infusions [IC50(DPPH) = 2.21 mg mL−1] are better antioxidants than the essential oils [IC50(DPPH) = 40.37 mg mL−1]. The essential oils were considered highly cytotoxic (LD50 = 26.64 μg mL−1), according to the ASB. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A simple and facile hydrothermal method was developed for the synthesis of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) adorned with two-dimensional (2D) heme-like Fe(III)-tetra(4-carboxyphenyl)-porphine (TCPP-Fe) metal-organic framework (MOF) nanocomposite. Notably, the synthesized hybrid nanomaterial (AuNPs/TCPP-Fe hybrid nanosheets) exhibited excellent peroxidase (POD)-like nanoenzymes activity and Raman activity under ultrasound (US) and near-infrared (NIR) irradiation at physiological pH conditions. A cascade colorimetric-SERS dual-mode method was developed for sensitive and rapid cholesterol determination based on the excellent POD-like properties and surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) activity of AuNPs/TCPP-Fe nanoenzymes. The TCPP-Fe nanoenzymes combined with cholesterol oxidase catalyze a cascade reaction to convert cholesterol to H2O2, which then oxidizes colorless, low Raman-activity 3,3′,5,5′-tetramethylbenzidine (TMB) to a blue, high-Raman-activity oxidation product (ox-TMB). The cholesterol in human serum of colorimetric-SERS was successfully assayed with good recovery from 97.8 to 103.7%. The study paves a new method for designing a nanocomposite-based SERS for biochemistry analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two mixed systems consisting of an anionic surfactant and a cationic surface-active ionic liquid were studied. The mixture of sodium octanesulfonate (SOS) and 1-decyl-3-methylimidazolium bromide ([C10mim]Br), and the mixture of SOS and 1-tetradecyl-3-methylimidazolium bromide ([C14mim]Br), were both investigated using surface tension measurement. The parameters, such as critical micelle concentration (cmc), surface tension at cmc (γcmc), surface pressure at cmc (Πcmc), maximum surface excess (Γmax) and minimum area per molecule (Amin), were obtained. The mixed micellar parameters including micellar mole fraction (X1m), micellar interaction parameters (βm) and activity coefficients (f1m), and f2m), were calculated by applying Rubingh's regular solution theory. The calculated parameters confirmed that there were strong synergy in all these mixed systems, and the interaction of SOS with [C14mim]Br was stronger than that with [C10mim]Br. Thermodynamic parameters for mixed monolayers and mixed micelles were calculated and discussed, which indicated that the mixed micelles were spontaneously formed and were thermodynamically stable systems. Turbidity measurement was conducted using spectrophotometry. The phase diagrams were plotted for each system based on visual observations and absorbance values. The mixed systems of SOS/[C10mim[Br and SOS/[C14mim[Br all exhibited three concentration regions: a low-concentration homogeneous solution region, a two-phase region, and a high-concentration homogeneous solution region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Laser ablation synthesis in a liquid environment is a green and low-cost technique that allows the preparation of nanostructures. In the last few decades, transition metal oxide nanostructures have attracted a great deal of attention from the research community due to their diversified applications. Tungsten and molybdenum oxides have tunable bandgaps and localized surface plasmon resonance peaks in the near-infrared region in reduced form, making them promising candidates for optical sensing, optical transistors, photothermal therapy, and photocatalysis. In this work, tungsten and molybdenum oxide nanoparticles are prepared in deionized water using pure tungsten and molybdenum metal sheets. XRD results showed the formation of tungsten and molybdenum oxide. SEM images showed that particles are spherical and have different sizes. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy results showed that the W+5 and Mo+5 oxidation states are present along with the W+6 and Mo+6 oxidation states, respectively, which indicate that the prepared WO3 and MoO3 oxides exist in reduced form. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Cigarette smoke is known to contain toxic heavy metals. In this study, heavy metal levels in the nasal turbinate tissues of smokers and nonsmokers were measured and compared with Inductively Coupled Plasma‐Mass Spectrometry (ICP‐MS). Methods: Forty patients who come to the Otorhinolaryngology outpatient clinic due to nasal obstruction and are given an appointment for partial turbinate reduction operation due to inferior turbinate hypertrophy, according to their smoking status, were divided into two groups: those who had smoked one pack/day for at least 10 years and those who had never smoked. The levels of heavy metals (Al, As, Ba, Cd, Cr, Co, Cu, Pb, Mn, Hg, Ni, Se, and Ag) were compared by ICP‐MS in nasal turbinate tissues. Results: Al (p = 0.002), Cr (p < 0.001), Co (p < 0.001), Ni (p = 0.001), Cu (p < 0.001), As (p < 0.001), Se (p < 0.001), Ag (p < 0.001), Cd (p = 0.001), Ba (p = 0.008), Hg (p < 0.001), and Pb (p < 0.001) values in the smoker group were found to be significantly higher than the values of nonsmokers. Although the Mn level was high in smokers, no significant difference was observed (p = 0.299). Conclusions: Smoking can cause nasal and sinus problems. In this study, we observed that the smoking group had significantly higher levels of almost all the heavy metals investigated in the nasal turbinate tissues. As smoking damages, the mucociliary system and the mucosa, heavy metals from cigarettes may accumulate further and cause harm to the nasal tissues. Level of Evidence: 3 Laryngoscope, 134:3562–3567, 2024 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The online detection of fertilizer solution information is a crucial link in the implementation of intelligent and precise variable fertilization techniques. However, achieving simultaneous rapid online detection of multiple fertilizer components is still challenging. Therefore, a rapid detection method based on spectrophotometry for qualitative and quantitative identification of four fertilizers (typical N, P, and K fertilizers: KNO3, (NH4)2SO4, KH2PO4, and K2SO4) was proposed in this work. Full-scan absorption spectra of fertilizer solutions at varying concentrations were obtained using a UV–visible/near-infrared spectrophotometer. By assessing the linear fit between fertilizer concentration and absorbance at each wavelength within the characteristic band, the characteristic wavelengths for KNO3, (NH4)2SO4, KH2PO4, and K2SO4 were identified as 214 nm, 410 nm, 712 nm, and 1708 nm, respectively. The identification method of fertilizer type and the prediction model of concentration were constructed based on characteristic wavelength and the Lambert–Beer law. Based on the above analysis, a four-channel photoelectric sensor was designed with four LEDs emitting wavelengths closely matched to characteristic wavelengths for fertilizer detection. A detection strategy of "qualitative analysis followed by quantitative detection" was proposed to realize the online detection of four fertilizer types and their concentrations. Evaluation of the sensor's performance showed its high stability, with an accuracy of 81.5% in recognizing fertilizer types. Furthermore, the relative error of the sensor detection was substantially less than ±15% for the fertilizer concentrations not exceeding 80 mg/L. These results confirm the capability of the sensor to meet the practical requirements for online detection of four fertilizer types and concentrations in the field of agricultural engineering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper presents the experimental study of the influence of a 50 Hz extremely-low-frequency (ELF) electromagnetic field (EMF) on the growth of microalgae Chlorella vulgaris in a BG11 culture medium. Comparative experimental determinations carried out under reference conditions (microalgae growth without exposure to EMF) and with exposure to a homogeneous 50 Hz EMF of various intensities highlighted the fact that EMF has a major impact on both the growth speed and the nitrogen and phosphorus content of the obtained algal mass. Through spectrophotometry and gravimetric determinations, it was found that the lag time was reduced from approximately 8 h (reference) to approximately 6 h for EMF of 2 V/m, 4.5 h for EMF of 5 V/m, 3.2 h for EMF of 10 V/m, and 2.5 h for EMF of 15 V/m. In the stimulation with 15 V/m EMF, the maximum biomass growth rate was 2.75 times higher than the reference, leading to a 2-fold increase in the rate of exhaustion of nutrients, especially phosphorus, in the culture medium. The specific chemical analyses for N-NO3, total nitrogen TNb, and total phosphorus Pt highlighted that the N-NO3 content of the culture medium decreased by 58 mg/L/day at 15 V/m EMF compared to 43 mg/L for the reference. The Pt content decreased to 90% depletion after approximately 80 h for the reference culture medium, versus only 48 h of growth with exposure to 15 V/m ELF. The TNb content of the algal suspension in BG11 under the influence of 15 V/m EMF for 96 h of growth increased 14 times compared to the reference. This shows that nitrogen metabolization in the dispersed air was significantly stimulated. It was also found that the 50 Hz EMF also influences the nitrogen and phosphorus content of the increased algal mass. The results show the potential of EMF stimulation of Chlorella vulgaris growth, leading to an increased efficiency of algae growth reactors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rasashastra, an Ayurvedic pharmaceutical branch, scientifically converts natural resources into palatable therapeutic dosage forms. Ayurvedic Marine Drugs (AMD) are mainly calcium carbonate/ calcite, but in Ayurvedic treatment modality they are uniquely used for several ailments. Moreover, their detailed microchemical compositions have seldom been reported. In this study, five raw materials, conch, oyster shell, cowry, coral, and pearl, their transitions during the manufacturing process, and the final drugs were analyzed for identification and quantitation of minor elements using a validated inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrophotometry method. All the five raw materials contained traces of Al, Ag, B, Ba, Cu, Co, Cr, Fe, Hg, Li, K, Mg, Mn, Na, Ni, Pb, S, Sr, Tl, and Zn. Interestingly, B, Co, Cr, Li, Mn, and Ni were absent in the finished products, whereas Pb and Hg exhibited a considerable decrement during the drug formation. The first three components of principal component analysis together explained 72.09% of variance. Raw AMD indicated positive factor scores, whereas their respective purified and incinerated forms exhibited negative scores. Cluster analysis derived a dendrogram typically forming incinerated AMD group but not for the raw forms. Coral with Mg as highest content was a remarkable outlier in both these analyses as compared to Na in others. In discriminant analysis of the presence/absence of elements and periodic table-based classifications, coral and pearl showed higher variation indicating as discriminants when equated with others. Periodic table-based classification was a better model for discrimination. Correlation analysis in both classifications revealed a strong correlation of conch with oyster shells and vice versa, cowry and pearl with oyster shell and a weak correlation of coral with pearl. Coral was a good predictor followed by conch, pearl, oyster shell, and cowry, sequentially, and can be considered a moderately sensitive but highly specific model. Thus, ICP-OES technique is highly precise and accurate for assessing the micro-composition of raw, in-process, and finished products to ensure their transitions, quality, and genuineness. Such characterized traditional medicines should be further investigated in depth for their mechanistic aspects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives Methods Results Conclusion Clinical Significance To evaluate the color‐match with extracted natural teeth of three single‐shade universal composites, a group‐shade universal composite, and a highly translucent‐shade conventional composite.Twenty extracted human teeth were divided into light‐ and dark‐shade groups (n = 10, LSG and DSG). A preparation was restored with the 3 single‐shade universal composites, OMNICHROMA (OMC), Admira Fusion x‐tra U (AFU), and Essentia U (ESU); a highly translucent‐shade conventional composite, Tetric EvoCeram T (TEC‐T); and two shades of a group‐shade universal composite—Filtek Universal Restorative (FUR A1 and A4). Composites were photopolymerized, polished, and stored in water for 24 h. The ΔE00 value between the unprepared and restored surfaces was obtained using a spectrophotometer. Composite placement and measurements were repeated three times per tooth. Color differences were statistically analyzed with the within‐between‐subjects t‐test and repeated‐measures analysis of variance (ANOVA), followed by post hoc pairwise comparisons with a Bonferroni adjustment (α = 0.05).There were no statistically significant differences between OMC and FUR (A1 and A4). AFU and ESU showed significantly higher ΔE00 values than OMC and TEC‐T (p < 0.05). Single‐shade composites exhibited significantly higher ΔE00 values in the DSG than in the LSG except ESU (p < 0.05). None of the composites satisfied the criteria for an acceptable match (ΔE00 >1.8).OMC showed the same color matching ability as a group‐shade universal composite. A highly translucent‐shade conventional composite and OMC exhibited better color matching ability than other single‐shade composites. Overall, single‐shade universal composites performed better in lighter‐shaded teeth.Single‐shade universal composites have the potential to reduce chair time by eliminating shade selection in cavities with lighter‐shade teeth. Highly translucent incisal conventional composites also may be used if the appropriate shade of composite is not available. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractA new method for separating and concentrating Rhodamine B (RhB) in cosmetics has been developed using nonanoic acid liquid-phase microextraction (NA-LPmE) with spectrophotometric determination. Nonanoic acid is a novel and environmentally friendly extractant that was used as a single component in the isolation. In contrast, supramolecular solvents and deep eutectic solvents are often combined as a mixture. The method is simple, quick, accurate, and environmentally friendly. The appropriate parameters (the volume of NA, pH, sample volume, and matrix effects) were optimized and these conditions resulted in a suitable linear range (20.5–1000 µg L−1), low detection limit (6.2 µg L−1), and high pre-concentration factor (40). The NA-LPmE method successfully extracted and determined RhB in several cosmetics and employs a small volume of green solvent with spectrophotometric determination and rapid analysis. The combination of nonanoic acid and RhB was used for the first time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ninhydrin reaction is commonly used for the detection of amino acids. However, in the literature, different conditions with respect to the buffer system, its pH and concentration, type of organic solvent, incubation time, and temperature, as well as the concentrations of the reagents, are described. To identify the most suitable conditions, colour development with reagents of varying compositions and different reaction temperatures and times were investigated using asparagine as a model amino acid. Asparagine was selected since it is one of the most abundant free amino acids in many types of samples. The optimal reaction mixture consisted of 0.8 mol L−1 potassium acetate, 1.6 mol L−1 acetic acid, 20 mg mL−1 ninhydrin and 0.8 mg mL−1 hydrindantin in DMSO/acetate buffer 40/60 (v/v) (final concentrations). The best reaction condition was heating the samples in 1.5 mL reaction tubes to 90 °C for 45 min. Afterwards, the samples were diluted with 2-propanol/water 50/50 (v/v) and the absorbance was measured at 570 nm. The proteinogenic amino acids showed a similar response except for cysteine and proline. The method was highly sensitive and showed excellent linearity as well as intra-day and inter-day reproducibility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metopimazine (MPZ) is a dopamine antagonist from the phenothiazine class of drugs. It has antiemetic properties and is used to treat nausea and vomiting, including those associated with cancer chemotherapy. We have proposed a new method for the quantitative determination of Metopimazine by spectrophotometry. The drug is determined using a difference spectrophotometric technique based on the absorbance of its previously prepared sulfoxide derivative (λmax = 355 nm, ε = 4.5 × 103 L/mol cm) relative to a solution of a non-derivatised drug. The sulfoxide derivative is formed quickly and quantitatively at room temperature by adding potassium caroate solution. The difference in the absorbance of solutions at 355 nm is proportional to the concentration of MPZ in the drug. The method is specific for an intact drug in the presence of oxidative and photochemical decomposition products and excipients. The linearity range is 0.9–30.0 μg/mL. Regression line equation: ΔA = 0.0061 × c (r = 0.999), where c is the MPZ concentration in μg/mL. The limit of quantitation, LOQ (10S), is 2.8 μg/mL. The possibility of quantitative determination of MPZ content in the bulk drug and tablets of Vogalen Lyok 7.5 mg with a relative standard deviation of 1.21% (δ = + 0.05%) and 1.38% (δ = – 0.67%), respectively, was shown. │δ│ < tα (0.95, n = 7) × RSD/√n, where δ = ( x ¯ –μ) × 100%/μ (μ—quantification data, given in the Certificate of Quality). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Medicinal plant-mediated combinational therapies have gained importance globally due to minimal side effects and enhanced treatment outcomes compared to single-drug modalities. We aimed to analyze the cytotoxic potential of each conventional treatment i.e., photodynamic therapy (PDT), chemotherapy (doxorubicin hydrochloride; Dox-HCl) with or without various concentrations of medicinal plant extracts (PE) on soft tissue cancer Rhabdomyosarcoma (RD) cell line. Methods: The Rhabdomyosarcoma (RD) cell line was cultured and treated with Photosensitizer (Photosense (AlPc4)), Chemo (Dox-HCl), and their combinations with different concentrations of each plant extract i.e., Thuja occidentalis, Moringa oleifera, Solanum surattense. For the source of illumination, a Diode laser (λ = 630 nm ± 1 nm, Pmax = 1.5 mW) was used. Photosensitizer uptake time (∼ 45 min) was optimized through spectrophotometric measurements (absorption spectroscopy). Drug response of each treatment arm was assessed post 24 h of administration using 3-(4, 5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2, 5- 5-diphenyl-2 H- tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. Results: PE-mediated Chemo-Photodynamic therapy (PDT) exhibited synergistic effects (CI < 1). Moreover, Rhabdomyosarcoma culture pretreated with various plant extracts for 24 h exhibited significant inhibition of cell viability however most effective outcomes were shown by low and high doses of Moringa oleifera compared to other plant extracts. Post low doses treated culture with all plant extracts followed by PDT came up with more effectiveness when compared to all di-therapy treatments. Conclusion: The general outcome of this work shows that the ethanolic plant extracts (higher doses) promote the death of cancerous cells in a dose-dependent way and combining Dox-HCl and photo-mediated photodynamic therapy can yield better therapeutic outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The influence of micellar systems based on cationic surfactants—gadolinium(III) and copper(II) complexes with alkylated 1,4-diazabicyclo[2.2.2]octane, 1-hexadecyl-4-aza-1-azoniabicyclo[2.2.2]octane bromide (ligand) and the conventional surfactant cetyltrimethylammonium bromide – on the solubility of the antimalarial drug artemisinin in water was studied by spectrophotometric method. A quantitative assessment of the solubilizing ability of surfactant aggregates was carried out. The value of the solubilization capacity of the systems was determined. The ligand has the greatest influence on the solubility of artemisinin, and, consequently, its bioavailability. The concentration of the drug increases up to 36 times in the presence of a relatively low surfactant content in the aqueous solution. The period of chemical stability of artemisinin in cationic surfactants solutions was determined. Aggregates formed in surfactant-artemisinin systems were characterized by dynamic and electrophoretic light scattering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A sensitive, easy, and low-cost method used in the determination of pure forms of losartan and mebeverine hydrochloride, also in pharmaceutical preparations with derivative spectrometry using UV-Vis technology. This method depends on measuring the first derivative of the spectrum using zero cross, peak to base line, and peak area. The linear range of concentrations used was equal to 2–14 ppm for losartan, whereas for mebeverine hydrochloride it was equal to 2–16 ppm in a mixture. For losartan, in the presence of mebeverine hydrochloride, 12 ppm by utilizing peak to baseline correlation coefficients 0.9984, 0.9994, and peak area 0.9972, whereas for mebeverine hydrochloride in the presence of losartan, 12 ppm by utilizing peak to fundamental correlation coefficients 0.9952, 0.9966, 0.9957, and peak area 0.9970, 0.9971, 0.9968, 0.9971. The limit of detection for each drug, losartan and mebeverine hydrochloride, is equal to 0.0113 ppm. The accuracy and precision of the method were estimated by calculating relative standard deviation (%RSD) values less than 3% while maintaining a recovery percentage of acceptable value. The proposed method proved effective and efficient at estimating both losartan and mebeverine hydrochloride, in the presence of the other in a mixture of the two without interference, despite the closeness of their spectral absorption peaks. There are no other more accurate methods for estimating the two in a mixture than the proposed method. The proposed method is considered one of the most direct and economical methods that do not require reagents or additional materials for conducting reactions and studying the optimal conditions for those interactions. Thus, it is considered one of the green chemistry techniques that reduce the use of chemicals and reagents in the process of estimating these drugs in a mixture and in a shorter period of time. The proposed method can be used to estimate the different properties in a mixture of the two compounds whose absorption spectra are close. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Betatrophin is a hepatokine that modulates hepatic glucose and lipid metabolism and contributes to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) pathogenesis. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the relationship between NAFLD and betatrophin levels in hypogonadal males. Methods: The study included 56 newly diagnosed hypogonadal males aged 18-60 and 60 eugonadal males of similar age and body mass index. All participants were assessed for anthropometric and metabolic parameters, liver function tests, and betatrophin levels. Transient elastography was used to evaluate liver steatosis [controlled attenuation parameter (CAP)] and fibrosis [liver stiffness measurement (LSM)]. Accordingly, hypogonadal and control groups were divided into NAFLD (n = 64) and non-NAFLD (n = 52). Results: Controlled attenuation parameter, LSM, waist circumference (WC), triglycerides (TG), IR index homeostasis model assessment (HOMA-IR), and betatrophin were significantly higher in the hypogonadal group than controls. Hepatic steatosis and fibrosis (67.9%-43.3%) were higher in hypogonadal males. Triglycerides, HOMA-IR, and betatrophin were higher, and total testosterone was significantly lower in the NAFLD group. Serum betatrophin was also significantly higher in patients with fibrosis than without. There was a significant positive correlation between WC, TG, HOMA-IR, betatrophin, and LSM and CAP. The predictive factors were TG (ß = 0.329, P < .001), betatrophin (ß = 0.221, P = .029), HOMA-IR (ß = 0.213, P = .019) for CAP, and betatrophin for LSM (ß = 0.466, P < .001). Conclusion: Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is more common in hypogonadal males than in eugonadal males. Betatrophin is an independent risk factor for developing and progressing NAFLD. However, more research is needed to explain the causal relationship between betatrophin and NAFLD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Colours relay information to conspecifics and predators unique to an environment and are shaped by natural selection favouring colours that enable higher fitness. For decades, ecologists have grappled with various methods of quantifying colour. Spectrophotometers offer precise and accurate data, but their high price limits accessibility. Here we test the validity of an accessible method of quantifying colour. We analysed photographs from four species of Anolis lizards from urban and forest habitats. We compared dewlap colour in order to determine if photographic analysis can detect inter- and intraspecific differences with the same power as a spectrophotometer. We hypothesized that photographs would capture colour data comparable to a spectrophotometer within the visible light range, and that habitat divergence would be associated with intraspecific differences in dewlap. We demonstrate, as hypothesized, that photographic colour data are consistent with spectrophotometer data and capable of differentiating dewlap variation within the visible light spectrum. Differences in colour between urban and forest populations were significant for some but not all species, and the part of the colour spectrum that shifted was not consistent across species. Our results support photographic analysis as an alternative for quantifying colour to study both inter- and intraspecific variation in visible colour. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Building upon foundational experiments in redox titration and spectrophotometry, this study outlines the design and execution of an innovative, comprehensive experiment framework for determining permanganate index (CODMn) in drinking water. Central to this approach is a student-focused methodology that enhances practical and inventive skills through comparative analysis of two distinct techniques. This process not only bridges gap between theoretical knowledge and experimental practice, but also integrates teaching with research to underscore the distinctions between conventional and novel methods, verified and innovative experiments, and between simulated and actual samples, showing the high order, innovation and challenge of experimental course. By emphasizing the dual nature and degree of experimental coursework and incorporating ideological and political elements, the experiment fulfills the fundamental mission of moral education. Additionally, the establishment of a procedural evaluation system enables a thorough and systematic assessment of the experimental activities, significantly contributing to the pedagogical process. This innovative experiment offers valuable insights in the reform of experimental teaching within the field of analytical chemistry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Statement of Problem: Limited evidence is available for the effect of chairside adjustment using rotary cutting instruments on the surface roughness and optical properties of different zirconia types. Purpose: To evaluate the effect of simulated adjustments on surface roughness and optical properties of different zirconia types. Materials and Methods: Three Partially Stabilized Zirconia (PSZ) types based on mole percent yttria (Y) concentration from the same manufacturer (Katana; Kuraray) were used: 3Y‐PSZ, 4Y‐PSZ, and 5Y‐PSZ. Thirty disk‐shaped specimens (Ø14 × 1.2 mm) from different zirconia types (N = 90) were prepared. Specimens were either left without adjustment (NA), adjusted with Dialite ZR finishing and polishing system (Brasseler) (APol), or adjusted with course diamond instruments only (ADia). The specimens were distributed into 9 groups (n = 10): Group 3Y‐PSZ/NA, Group 3Y‐PSZ/APol, Group 3Y‐PSZ/ADia, Group 4Y‐PSZ/NA, Group 4Y‐PSZ/APol, Group 4Y‐PSZ/ADia, Group 5Y‐PSZ/NA, Group 5Y‐PSZ/APol, and Group 5Y‐PSZ/ADia. The surface roughness of specimen was analyzed using an Atomic Force Microscope (AFM) (Bruker's Dimension Icon, Bruker) and Root Means Square (RMS) were recorded (nm). Surface Gloss (SG), Translucency Parameter (TP), and Contrast Ratio (CR) values of all groups were recorded using an integrating sphere spectrophotometer. Statistical analysis was performed using analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tukey's multiple comparison tests for pairwise comparisons at p < 0.05 and 95% confidence interval. Results: APol had no effect on the surface roughness (p = 0.88) while ADia had a significant negative effect (p < 0.05) despite the type of zirconia. Out of the three testes optical properties, only SG was negatively affected by ADia for all types of zirconia (p < 0.05). The two adjustment types did not affect the TP of all the tested zirconia (p = 0.91). The CR was not affected by the tested adjustments for all zirconia types (p = 0.726). Conclusion: Proper zirconia adjustment following a sequence of burs and polishers can maintain acceptable roughness and optical properties. Adjustment of zirconia with rough diamond can lead to deleterious effects and should be avoided. Clinical Significance: Chairside adjustment of zirconia could lead to rougher surface and unpredictable changes of surface gloss. Therefore, zirconia adjustment should be minimized to the greatest extent possible and a proper protocol should be followed if had to be done. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Evaluate the color and translucency of a nanoceramic resin subjected to hygiene practices and immersion in coffee over time. Materials and Methods: Specimens (n = 80, HT and LT, 0.5‐mm thick) of a nanoceramic resin were obtained and were divided in groups according to the simulated oral hygiene: no intervention (NT), brushing with an electric brush and water (BN), brushing with an electric brush and toothpaste for 10 s (BT), and immersion in mouthwash for 30 s (MW). Oral hygiene practices were repeated after staining in coffee solution for 15, 48, 336, 1440, 8640, and 35,040 min. Spectral wavelengths were recorded with a spectrophotometer at each time. ∆E00, ∆L′, ∆C′, ∆H′, and TP00 were calculated by CIEDE2000 and were evaluated by 2‐way ANOVA, repeated measures ANOVA, and Tukey's HSD test (α = 0.05). Results: ANOVA showed significance among factors for ΔE00 (p < 0.05), with higher ΔE00 for NT‐HT (11.7) and NT‐LT (11.2). After T6 (2‐year simulation), the lowest values were found for BT‐HT (5.3) and BT‐LT (4.9). All groups showed a reduction in lightness and translucency and increased chroma and hue. However, the smallest variations were found in the BT groups (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Brushing with toothpaste effectively minimized the color change of NCRs caused by coffee staining. Clinical Significance: Oral hygiene practices, such as brushing with toothpaste, might be important to minimize staining of nanoceramic resin restorations, especially in patients who frequently consume coffee. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Determination and evaluation active substances in chemical settings is extremely difficult, linked to chemical waste in water sewage, and may eventually have an influence on public health. As a result, efforts are being made globally to find other, perhaps less hazardous ways. Hereby, we aimed to determine two pharmaceutical products for the detection of phenylephrine hydrochloride and terbutaline sulphate using green chemistry. The procedure involves oxidizing phenylephrine hydrochloride and terbutaline sulphate using potassium permanganate as an oxidant and decolorizing the surplus of potassium permanganate in the reaction with Nile blue dye. The results confirmed that this method has provided easy and precise evaluation of phenylephrine hydrochloride and terbutaline sulphate at concentrations ranging from (0.4-4.5) µg /ml, with molar absorption capacity of (6.9x104 ) l‧mol-1 ‧cm -1 for phenylephrine hydrochloride and (1.44×105 ) l‧mol-1 ‧cm-1 for terbutaline sulphate. The methodologies have precisely determined the pharmaceutical dosage forms of the tested drugs, agreeing with previously tested and stated values and standard compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sea buckthorn and Japanese knotweed are known in many traditional medicine systems to be a great source of bioactive substances. This research aims to compare the bioactivity and protective effects of the phenolic extracts of leaves from sea buckthorn and roots and leaves from the Japanese knotweed on erythrocytes. The polyphenol composition of the extract was analyzed using UPLC-PDA-ESI-MS/MS. The extracts' toxicity and impact on the erythrocytes' osmotic fragility were measured spectrophotometrically. The antioxidant activity was determined based on the inhibition of oxidation of erythrocytes and their membrane induced by 2,2'-Azobis(2-methylpropionamidine) dihydrochloride (AAPH),measured spectrophotometrically and using fluorimetry. To find the possible mechanism of the extracts' action, extract-modified cells were observed under a microscope, and the potential localization of the extract's phytochemical composition was checked using fluorescent probes. The results showed that the used extracts are not toxic to erythrocytes, increase their osmotic resistance, and successfully protect them against free radicals. Extract components localize on the outer part of the membrane, where they can scavenge the free radicals from the environment. Altogether, the presented extracts can greatly protect living organisms against free radicals and can be used to support the treatment of diseases caused by excess free radicals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The complete role of factors contributing to the pathogenesis of childhood obesity remains to be fully elucidated. Limited research has addressed trace elements in the context of child obesity. Our objective was to assess trace element and lead (Pb), copper (Cu) (are toxic metal) levels in both healthy and obese children, and to investigate the potential correlations between these elements and obesity-related anthropometric measurements, lipid profiles, as well as insulin and glucose levels. Materials and Methods: Furnace atomic absorption spectrophotometry was employed to measure the concentrations of trace elements in the serum. Additionally, fasting glucose, insulin, and lipid levels were determined in obese children (body mass index ≥ 95th percentile for age and sex), along with 50 healthy children. Only the obesity group underwent an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT). Results: Significantly reduced levels of Fe, Mg, Zn, and Co were observed in obese children, whereas Cu, Pb, and Mn levels were elevated (P < .001, P <.001, P = .002, P = .008, P <.001, P = .001, P = .007, respectively). Significant positive correlations were found between the 2-hour glucose level in OGTT and Mn (P = .013), as well as between peak insulin and insulin levels at the 30th and 60th minutes, and Fe (P = .001, P = .025, P = .001). Conclusion: This study indicates that an imbalance in trace element levels and the accumulation of Pb may be associated with obesity, while levels of Mn and Fe may be linked to glucose intolerance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

EVOO is widely considered a superior edible oil due to its unique taste and aroma. Its consumption is associated with several health benefits, many of which are attributed to its phenolic compounds. This work involved the analysis of 203 EVOO samples using the official method recommended by the IOC (COI/T.20/Doc. No 29/Rev.1 2017) to determine their polyphenolic content. In addition, ultraviolet (UV) absorption spectroscopy has been applied to the same EVOO samples in combination with PLS regression to assess the polyphenolic content. This work demonstrates that ultraviolet absorption spectroscopy offers an efficient and cost-effective alternative. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two new triterpenes mayteneri A (1), mayteneri B (2), and seven known compounds (3-9) were isolated from stems of Maytenus hookeri Loes. The chemical structures of compounds 1 and 2 were established by 1D, 2D NMR, HRESIMS analysis, and calculating electronic circular dichroism (ECD). The structures of known compounds 3-9 were determined by comparison of their spectral with those reported. Compounds 4-7 showed significant inhibitory activity for NLRP3 inflammasome, with the IC50 values of 2.36–3.44 μM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The emergence of the multidrug-resistant bacteria strain has become a global world crisis. This study was designed to evaluate the antibiofilm and synergistic effects of Lippia multiflora leaf extracts on the activity of cefotaxime against the methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus). Methods: The synergistic effect of methanol and dichloromethane extracts on the bactericidal activity of cefotaxime was determined by using the antibiotic susceptibility test on agar medium. The antibiofilm activity of the extracts was measured by using the crystal violet method. The antioxidant potential of the extracts was assessed by using the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and Ferric Reduction Activity Potential (FRAP) methods. The main secondary metabolites groups were analyzed by using different standard analytical tests. The total phenolics and total flavonoids were quantified spectrophotometrically. Results: The methanol extract (final concentration of 100 µg/ml) inhibited the formation of bacterial biofilm more than salicylic acid (p<0.05). All extracts combined with cefotaxime (20 µg and 200 µg) showed good synergistic bactericidal effect on S. aureus with inhibitory diameters of up to 40 mm. The methanol extract showed higher total phenolics (462.20±10.90 mg EAG/g) and total flavonoids (26.20±0.20 mg EQ/g) contents than the dichloromethane extract (96.70±1.70 mg EAG/g and 8.00±1.20 mg EQ/g). Moreover, the methanol extract showed a higher FRAP reducing power (353.6± 4.17 mmol EQ/g) than the dichloromethane extract (385.3±7.01 mmol EQ/g). Qualitative phytochemical analysis showed the presence of tannins, flavonoids, terpenes and sterols in both extracts. Conclusion: These data showed that L. multiflora leaves contain effective antibacterial phytomolecules for combating bacterial resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The study investigated the relationship of gut microbiome features and sickness symptoms in kidney transplant recipients. Methods: Employing a prospective, longitudinal design, we collected data from 19 participants who had undergone living-donor kidney transplant at three timepoints (pre-transplant and 1 week and 3 months post-transplant). Sickness symptom data and fecal specimens were collected at each timepoint. Participants were grouped either as high or low sickness symptom severity at baseline. Shotgun metagenomics sequencing characterized gut microbial structure and functional gene content. Fecal microbial features, including alpha (evenness and richness within samples) and beta (dissimilarities between samples) diversity and relative abundances, were analyzed using R statistical packages. Cross-sectional and longitudinal analyses examined relationships between gut microbial features and sickness symptoms. Results: Although our exploratory findings revealed no significant differences in alpha and beta diversity between groups, the high-severity group showed lower microbial richness and evenness than the low-severity group. The high-severity group had enriched relative abundance of bacteria from the genera Citrobacter and Enterobacter and reduced relative abundance of bacteria from the genus Akkermansia across timepoints. No functional genes differed significantly between groups or timepoints. Conclusions: Kidney transplant recipients with high symptom burden displayed increased putative proinflammatory bacteria and decreased beneficial bacteria. This study provides an effect size that future large cohort studies can employ to confirm associations between gut microbial features and sickness symptom experiences in the kidney transplant population. The study findings also have implications for future interventional studies aiming to alleviate the sickness symptom burden in this population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]