Journal of Analytical Techniques and Research
Journal of Analytical Techniques and Research is an open access, peer reviewed biannual journal publish articles related to the ever expanding latest research on analytical techniques. Some of the topics includes; analytical characterization of bio and nano materials, instrumental developments for analytics, bioassays, clinical pathology, chemical and pesticide testing, analysis of pharmaceuticals including raw materials, in-line testing and finished products, testing of food products and beverages and in several other fields which require quantitative analysis of samples. All the papers are checked for plagiarism and are peer-reviewed before publication.
Quantitative In Silico Analytical Chemistry for Drug Discovery: From Ion-Ion Interaction to COVID-19 Variants Transmissibility and the Binding Inhibitors
Since a new coronavirus (COVID-19) was found in December 2019, more than 40 variants have been identified and spread around the world and causing pandemonium. The urgent requirement for new vaccines and drugs has been demanded. Various drug candidates have been screened using computational chemistry methods. The main-flame computer can handle the auto-docking of proteins with various compounds from the data bank; however, we have to consider that amine and carboxy groups should be ionized and the phenolic hydroxy group may be in molecular form. The properties of bio-mimic ion-exchange groups are quantitatively described using simple model ion exchangers docking with analytes whose properties are easily characterized from their structure. Furthermore, the solvent and ion contributions to molecular interaction between the ion-exchange group and an analyte were quantitatively analyzed. The fundamental in silico analysis of molecular interactions between small molecules was expanded to analyze protein and substrate interactions, quantitative analysis of selective enzyme reaction, such as alanine racemase, serine racemase, alcohol dehydrogenase, cinnamyl alcohol dehydrogenase, D-amino acid oxidase, and D-aspartic acid oxidase. Proteins soften their stereo structures, collect various substrates, and tighten the complex structure to metabolize the substrates. Or the substrates tighten the complex structure and freeze the enzyme activity. The ion-ion interaction site is the major substitute recognition center and the enzyme selectivity is related to the electron localization degree. Further study for protein-protein interactions is applied to analyzing COVID-19 transmissibility as the molecular interaction energy value differences. Indeed, the most contributed interaction was ion-ion interaction, and the strength was quantitatively obtained as electrostatic energy value difference. The strongest interaction energy value was obtained between Omicron BA2 S-RBD and ACE-2. In addition, The ideal binding inhibitors of S-RBD with ACE-2 were acidic compounds that should be adsorbed at the S-RBD contact site with ACE-2 but not inhibit ACE-2 activity. The most effective binding inhibitors were ionized-carboxy compounds including natural compounds. Analytical chemistry means the analysis of chemistry. It is not limited only to measurements of amounts and involves analyses of chemical phenomena based on the chemical structures and properties like organic and biochemistry. The basic interaction mechanisms are supposed to be simple, and the selectivity is qualitatively explained as "like dissolves likes". The developed fundamental technical method is described in part in this tutorial review for targeting to understand the COVID-19 mutant's transmissibility and designing the binding inhibitors based on ion-ion interaction.
Copyright (c) 2026 Journal of Analytical Techniques and Research
Evaluation of Antioxidant Activity and Phytochemicals Properties of Methanol Extract Centella asiatica Leaves
Centella asiatica is an herbaceous plant commonly known as Gotu Kola and belongs to Apiaceae family. It is found in most tropical and subtropical countries growing in swampy areas. It is a tasteless, odourless plant and it is traditionally used for the treatment of a wide variety of disorders. Its leaves and roots are used as vegetables and for medicinal purposes. Knowledge of their contributions to human nutrition and contents of bioactive components is lacking and has limited their use. Therefore, this study evaluated the Nutrients content and phytochemical composition of Centella asiatica leaves using standard methods. The result of proximate composition revealed moisture (13.10 ± 1.07%), ash (16.5 ± 0.45%), protein (8.35 ± 1.28%), lipid (1.20 ± 0.10%), fiber (17.00 ± 1.87%) and carbohydrate (43.81 ± 0.70%) contents. Physicochemical results revealed Saponification value of 238.43 mg/KOH. Fatty acid composition revealed a high concentration of palmitic acid (55.70%) as saturated and Linoleic acid (17.50%) as unsaturated fatty acids; while amino acid composition showed high level of glutamate (13.389 g/100 g) as nonessential and Histidine (11.64 g/100 g) as essential amino acids respectively. The phytochemical composition revealed the presence of bioactive compounds such as; Proanthocyanin (11.964 µg/g), Rutin (11.8883 µg/g), Nanngenin (3.0122 µg/g),Quinine (10.4490 µg/g), Flav-3-ol(2.5900 µg/g), Spartein (3.0122 µg/g), Phenol (18.8713 µg/g), Flavonones (2.1836 µg/g), Steroids (18.8974 µg/g), Kaempferol (0.7273 µg/g), Phytate (1.6851 µg/g), Naringenin (2.7523 µg/g), Resveratol (10.8596 µg/g), Tannin (4.4377 µg/g) and Ribalinidine (3.0500 µg/g). The presence of these nutrients and bioactive phytochemicals in Centella asiatica leaves makes them useful in pharmaceutical and food industries.
Serum Alpha-Fetoprotein and Its Association with Glycemic Control, Liver Enzymes, and Renal Function among Adult Patients: A Cross-Sectional Study
Background: Serum alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) is widely used as a tumor marker, particularly in hepatocellular carcinoma; however, its levels may be influenced by non-malignant metabolic and biochemical factors. The relationship between AFP and glycemic status, liver enzymes, and renal function remains incompletely understood. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the association between serum AFP levels and glycemic control, liver enzymes, and renal function among adult patients. Methods: This analytical cross-sectional study was conducted among 200 adult patients (130 males, 70 females) from January to December 2024 at a tertiary-level cancer hospital. Biochemical parameters including fasting blood glucose, liver enzymes, renal function markers, lipid profile, and hematological indices were analyzed. AFP levels were measured using immunoassay techniques. Data were expressed as mean ± standard deviation, and correlation analysis was performed to assess associations between AFP and other variables. A p-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: The mean AFP level was 18.72 ± 96.45 ng/mL, showing a highly skewed distribution. Significant positive correlations were observed between AFP and fasting blood glucose (r = 0.28, p = 0.002), ALT (r = 0.32, p < 0.001), AST (r = 0.25, p = 0.004), creatinine (r = 0.19, p = 0.021), and urea (r = 0.22, p = 0.011). Abnormal AFP levels were more frequent among females (38.6%) compared to males (22.3%), while renal abnormalities were more prevalent in males. Conclusion: Serum AFP levels are significantly associated with metabolic, hepatic, and renal parameters. These findings suggest that AFP elevation may reflect underlying metabolic and organ dysfunction rather than malignancy alone, highlighting the need for cautious clinical interpretation
pXRF, Raman, and Multivariate Analysis Aiming to Discriminate Among Different Kinds of Marble Fragments of “Hygeia” Sculpture from Museu de Arte de São Paulo Assis Chateaubriand’s Collection
The marble statue of Hygeia (1st–2nd centuries AD), part of the collection of the Museu de Arte de São Paulo Assis Chateaubriand (MASP), is believed to have undergone extensive restoration in 18th-century Rome. The sculpture, composed of 185 fragments and measuring 161 cm in height, represents a complex assemblage of original ancient elements and later additions. In this study, a fully non-destructive analytical approach combining portable X-ray fluorescence (pXRF), Raman spectroscopy, and multivariate statistical analysis was applied to investigate the material composition of selected fragments. Twenty regions of the statue were analyzed in situ and compared with three reference marbles of known provenance: Paros, Pentelikon, and Thasos. Elemental and molecular data were evaluated using Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and Hierarchical Cluster Analysis (HCA). The multivariate results consistently separate the analyzed regions into two main groups, in agreement with independent stylistic and archaeological assessments. Furthermore, the combined spectroscopic and statistical evidence indicates compositional affinity with Paros and Pentelikon marbles, while allowing Thasos marble to be excluded. These results demonstrate that the integration of non-invasive spectroscopic techniques with multivariate analysis is an effective strategy for addressing questions of material characterization and restoration history in archaeological sculptures when sampling is not permitted.
Confocal Raman Spectroscopy Analysis of Biochemical Modifications in Diabetic Nails Induced by Photobiomodulation
Chronic hyperglycemia in diabetic patients can affect all body tissues, including peripheral tissues such as nails and hair. Nails are vital protective structures for the feet and hands, particularly in diabetic individuals who often experience impaired wound healing. Therefore, maintaining healthy nails is crucial for protecting these parts of the body. It is well-documented that the nails of diabetic patients undergo physicochemical changes due to the glycation of keratin. In this context, the objective of the present study is to utilize photobiomodulation (PBM) therapy to restore the biochemical integrity of healthy nails, thereby enhancing protection for diabetic patients. For this study, 30 healthy participants and 30 participants with type II diabetes (DM2) underwent PBM therapy twice a week, totaling 10 sessions. The point contact technique was used at two points located in the medial and lateral regions of the base of the nail on the fifth finger of the left hand. PBM was performed using low-intensity laser equipment, class B, with a Gallium-Aluminum Arsenide Diode (GaAlAs) semiconductor (808 nm; 100 mW; 4 J; 40 sec.; continuous). Nail fragments from the distal region were collected before (T0) and after (T2) therapeutic treatment. Biochemical changes attributed to PBM were measured using Confocal Raman Spectroscopy, with a Horiba confocal Raman spectrometer, model Xplorer, coupled to a laser with a wavelength of 785 nm and a power of approximately 15 mW. Spectral changes related to the biochemical components of the nail, such as keratin, disulfide bonds, and tyrosine, were evident after PBM. Additionally, changes were observed in the peak areas of 1654 cm-1 (α-helix) and 1622 cm-1 (β-sheet), which are protein markers for the groups investigated.
Asbestos and Anti-Asbestos Activism: Medical, Economical and Political Aspects
Potential health damage due to asbestos exposure has been evaluated using information from the mid-20th century and earlier, when exposures of workers and residents were greater. A linear no-threshold model has been applied, although its relevance is unproven. The fibers get into the air due to erosion of surface deposits and industries unrelated to asbestos. If looked for, the fibers are often found postmortem. The research is associated with bias: attributing malignancy to asbestos when fibers are found, although causality remains unproven. A history of professional exposure does not necessarily prove a cause-effect relationship. Asbestos bans weaken defenses, enhance damage from fires, terrorism and armed conflicts. Potential toxicity of serpentine and amphibole asbestos is analyzed here. Many animal experiments indicate similar levels of toxicity, while epidemiological studies of humans witness in favor of higher toxicity of amphiboles. This can be partly attributed to a bias in the latter study type. Epidemiological research in humans will not provide much information on low-dose impact. Reliable results can be obtained in large-scale lifelong bioassays with inhalation of fibers comparable to professional exposures.
Production of High Molecular Weight Hyaluronic Acid via Recombinant Bacillus subtilis 1A752
This study aimed to synthesize hyaluronic acid (HA) using a non-pathogenic recombinant bacterial host, Bacillus subtilis 1A752. The HA synthase (hasA) gene, originally isolated from Streptococcus equi subsp. zooepidemicus, was introduced into B. subtilis 1A752. This host strain naturally contains functional analogs of the Streptococcus genes hasB, hasC, and hasD, namely tuaD, gtaB, and gcaD. The hasA gene (or operon) was amplified from S. zooepidemicus genomic DNA using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and subsequently cloned into B. subtilis 1A752 through recombinant DNA technology. The engineered strain was then employed for HA production, followed by deproteinization of the product using the Sevag method and quantification via the Carbazole assay. The purified HA was characterized further through chromatographic techniques, with its molecular structure verified using Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) and Attenuated Total Reflection-Fourier Transform Infrared (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopy. The viscosimetric analysis determined the intrinsic viscosity (ηi) and molecular weight, ranging from 1.7 to 2.7 MDa. The synthesized HA exhibits promising potential for pharmaceutical, biomedical, and cosmetic applications with its high molecular weight and non-pathogenic production platform.
Copyright (c) 2025 Journal of Analytical Techniques and Research
Importance of Calibrating Analytical Equipment for Detecting and Quantifying Degradation Byproducts of C4F7N/CO2/O2 Gas Mixtures Insulation Fluid
In the past few years, the C4F7N/CO2/O2 gaseous blend has been recognized as the best promising alternatives to SF6 gas, allowing to keep the minimum dimensional and environmental footprint of high voltage power transmission equipment’s versus other alternatives. In the event of extreme thermoelectric stress, similar to SF6 the gas mixture undergoes dissociation and produces a diverse range of byproducts in various concentrations. Analytical technologies such as gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) are the key devices that can have the accurate estimation of qualitative and quantitative measurements of byproduct gas samples. Analysis of the arced gas sample reveals a range of byproducts, including CO, CF4, C2F6, C3F8, C2F4, C3F6, COF2, CF3CN, C2F6CN, CF2=CF-CN, (CN)2, CF3-N=CF2, CF(CF3)2-CO-NH2, and (CH3)2SiF2 that can be found as trace-level. However, due to the limited availability of standard gas in the market, only five gases, CF4, C2F6, C3F8, CF3CN, and COF2 were selected as standard for quantification. In our GC-MS method development, achieving complete peak separation was not possible due to the potential matrix effect of the sample. However, the peak area corresponding to the molecular ion of CF4, C2F6, C3F8, CF3CN, and COF2 was carefully determined, and the regression curve was plotted for each molecule individually. In COF2 results, the standard deviation was 69%, which led us to develop the FTIR methodology for COF2 with the classical least squares (CLS) method, in which the standard deviation drops to 4% from 69%.
Global Optimization Theories and Techniques for COVID-19
As the COVID-19 pandemic has caused enormous damage to society, economy and public health security, it is crucial to combat the epidemic and allocate social and health resources effectively. Global optimization algorithms are extensively used in many domains to find optimal solutions to complex problems. Thus, a survey of three typical global optimizations applied on the COVID-19 pandemic is timely. This article is structured into three typical global optimization algorithms - Genetic Algorithm, Particle Swarm Optimization, and Cat Swarm Optimization - and summarizes the framework models and practical applications, as well as other optimization methods that may be applied to COVID-19. Finally, current unresolved challenges and future research opportunities to be explored are summarized.
Introducing a new contextual system-theory, with focus on analysis of biological systems, give a guideline of how to explore complex systems. It is written not only for scientists, therefore I try to describe part of the way understanding complexity as an intuitive approach. This will also help scientists to get a deeper and more complete understanding of complex systems. Some definitions and rules may seem at first simple and obvious, but practiced in a multidimensional complex surrounding, one will see the difficulties. Even without mathematization or computer modeling a multidimensional sub space, which we try to describe phenomenologically for approaching the understanding, will need a lot of training not getting lost in the multidimensional world. Some of the chapters here and in following publications of this series are written for specialists, but we always come back to the essence of a phenomenological description. Concepts like Symbolic programming, Object oriented modeling, simulation, optimizing as well as experimental mathematical approaches and using new ways of artificial intelligence are the described tools to “unpuzzle” complex scenarios. The whole world interferes in many dimensions with the little world around us. If we do not want to destroy it with our one- dimensional solutions, we need to look at its problems in a new way. The present living in today’s global world is more complex than ever and complexity will increase dramatically in the future. We ourselves still tend to think linearly looking for simple answers. Our brain likes to live in the Stone Age where our horizon had a radius of several kilometers, but the influences to our lives and the related interconnections do not end in the next village or the next kingdom. The whole world interferes in many dimensions with the little world around us. If we do not want to destroy our world with our simple views and one-dimensional solutions, we need to learn to look at it and its problems in a new way. The comparison between the described approach of the contextual system theory and others are part of one of the last publications of this series of articles. Aside of their solutions, which will be taken into account as examples to describe complex systems, other approaches will then be discussed.
LEAD IN GAME MEAT A Study of Bioaccessibility of Lead Metal Fragments
The presence of metal lead fragments in the tissue around the wound channel can be observed in animals killed with lead-based bullets. These parts are normally discarded as food but a limited number of fragments may be consumed accidentally. A number of studies are performed to estimate mean lead metal contamination in game meat harvested with rifle and is assumed that all lead metal fragments to its total weight that may accidentally be left in the edible muscle tissue, will be dissolved to an absorbable lead compound which can be taken up by the body severely increasing B-Pb level. When blood lead level, B-Pb, is an important biomarker for dietary exposure from lead several studies have been conducted comparing blood lead levels in hunters with similar population groups who do not eat wild game. Even taking into account environmental and social conditions, eating habits and lead related occupations or hobbies, few conclusions can be drawn concerning risk assessment. This because lead pathways in general as well as the actual bioaccessibility of any metal lead accidently ingested, and the actual absorbable (bioavailable) fraction of this, are not compared or taken into account. The aim of this study was, by mean of in-vitro gastrointestinal simulation (IVG), to experimentally examine what percentage of any metal lead fragments present in tissue from a severely contaminated wound channel is converted to water soluble bioaccessible lead salts in the human gastrointestinal tract. Results obtained show that less than 2 % of all present lead metal fragments in raw meat from wound channel are converted to bioaccessible form in the human GI tract. Using this knowledge of the percentage of bioaccessible lead released, the impact on human blood lead levels from known or estimated contamination of lead metal in food can be easily calculated with use of Carlisle and Wade (1992) empirical equation for dietary exposure adopted by CONTAM panel 2010 using Slope Factor Models and absorption fractions.
Why Wuhan? What the Circumstantial Evidence Says About the Origins of COVID-19
In the absence of direct evidence on the immediate origins of the novel coronavirus, COVID-19, the theories of the case are based on circumstantial evidence. The identification of the first cluster of cases in a wet market in Wuhan naturally focused attention on the leap from animal to human having taken place there. The proximity to the wet market of a biological lab naturally prompted a theory of a lab leak. After it was determined that there were earlier cases than those associated with the wet market, the circumstantial evidence for both these theories was undermined. Meanwhile, irrefutable evidence emerged that the virus mutates readily and gains function on its own. There were no wet markets or biological labs associated with the emergence of the European strain that devastated Italy and Spain and later New York. Nor was there a wet market or biological lab in Kent where the UK strain that devastated that country later emerged. The same is true for Manaus in Brazil whence P1 emerged in a population in which three-quarters of the people had antibodies against previous strains, not to mention South Africa, or India where later and more virulent versions emerged. In this context, the key piece of circumstantial evidence becomes timing. Epidemiological modeling dates the start of the outbreak in Wuhan to the window between mid-October and mid-November. The 7th World Military Games held from 18 to 27 October 2019 in Wuhan, which brought together nearly 10,000 athletes from over 100 countries, took place in this window. Importantly, this period witnessed elevated numbers of hospital visits in Wuhan and web searches for symptoms also associated with COVID-19. The games thus provided a unique opportunity for a mutation, possibly through recombination, a well-established property of coronaviruses, which then launched the COVID-19 pandemic proper. The departing athletic teams then carried the virus to Europe, explaining the parallel timing: even as the first identification of a novel disease in Wuhan was made on 27 December when three connected cases of unknown pneumonia were reported, retrospective forensic analysis identified a patient in France with COVID-19, also on 27 December 2019. A number of other studies suggest the virus had already spread internationally prior to its identification in Wuhan. The WHO mission investigating the origins of COVID-19 left open this avenue as a possibility. The circumstantial evidence powerfully supports the hypothesis that the Wuhan virus was in fact the first variant.
Zebrafish Model of tcn2 Deletion Reveals New Molecular Insights into the Role of Vitamin B12 in Embryonic Development
Background: Vitamin B12 (B12) is one of the key co-factors in One-Carbon Metabolism pathway, and its dysregulation is associated with various clinical conditions including congenital malformations, neural tube defects, and low birthweight, etc. However, the underlying molecular mechanism is scarcely studied. Objective: This study investigated the role of B12 in early embryonic development by generating a knockout of transcobalamin 2 (tcn2), a B12 transporter in zebrafish. Methods: We generated tcn2-/- zebrafish by creating premature stop codons in exon 7 and confirmed by qRT-PCR and immunoblotting. Phenotypic changes were captured; growth and survival assays were conducted at different developmental stages. B12 supplementation assay was conducted by rearing tcn2-/- embryos in embryo-medium containing 10 µM cyanocobalamin. RNA-sequencing data was generated in triplicates in embryos at 1-cell and 24 hpf stages, with and without B12 supplementation. Genes with log2FC ≥ 0.6 and adjusted p-value ≤ 0.01 were considered differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and proceeded for functional annotation and enrichment analysis. Results: The F1 tcn2-/- embryos grew normally. However, the F2 tcn2-/- embryos remained unhatched, showed delayed somitogenesis, curved or deformed tails, abnormal yolk extension, pericardial and yolk sac edema, etc. and ~70% were dead by 4 dpf. The abnormalities were partially ameliorated by B12 supplementation throughout developmental stages. Transcriptome analysis identified DEGs enriched in pathways including spliceosome, ribosome biogenesis, branched-chain amino acid degradation, lysosome, iron homeostasis, metabolic and immune response pathways, etc. We observed dysregulated expression of many genes with epigenetic functions including sfswap, ctcf, mettl3, alkbh5, and hdac, etc., in the 1-cell tcn2-/- embryos. Notably, B12 supplementation restored expression of many DEGs indicating a potential role of B12 in transcriptional regulation during embryonic development. Conclusion: Our study delineates the importance of B12 during embryonic development and provides interesting insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying the observed phenotypic changes.
Copyright (c) 2024 Journal of Analytical Techniques and Research
From One to Millions: The Revolution of Combinatorial Chemistry
Combinatorial chemistry revolutionized discovery by enabling the rapid synthesis and screening of vast libraries containing millions of unique compounds. This review explores the core principles of library creation, including combinatorial explosion and parallel synthesis techniques like solid-phase and parallel synthesis. We discuss the advantages and limitations of this approach, highlighting its impact on accelerating discovery timelines in drug discovery, materials science, and beyond. Future advancements in automation, high-throughput screening, and computational modeling are poised to further enhance the power of combinatorial chemistry, driving innovation across diverse scientific fields.
Sustainable Lithium and Cobalt Recovery from Spent Lithium-ion Batteries: Best Practices for the Future. A review
Spent lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) are becoming increasingly common due to their widespread use in various energy-related applications. These batteries contain valuable metals such as cobalt (Co) and lithium (Li), which are in high demand and have limited long-term supply. To recover these valuable metals and avoid environmental pollution, the recycling of spent LIBs using different methods, including hydrometallurgy, pyrometallurgy, direct recycling, and biohydrometallurgy (bioleaching), has been widely explored. Each method has advantages and disadvantages in terms of cost-effectiveness and the recovery of Co and Li from spent LIBs. Thus, a comprehensive and critical analysis of recent studies on the performance of different recycling methods for the extraction of Co and Li from spent LIBs is necessary for the development of novel and practical strategies for effective metal extraction. Specifically, this review focuses on the current advancements in the application of existing recycling methods and emerging recycling technologies in terms of sustainability, efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and environmental friendliness for the recovery of Co and Li from spent LIBs. This review also identifies standardization of LIB design, automation of disassembly of SLIBs and involvement of artificial intelligence/machine learning in the recycling process as some of the best practices for the sustainable recovery of valuable metals from SLIBs and the minimization of pollution from SLIBs.
Study of the Toxicity and Antiviral Effect of Natural Compounds Extracted from Pseudospinx Tetrio and Allamanda Cathartica on Sars-Cov-2 Infection
Very present in the Caribbean, the leaves of Allamanda cathartica L. and the caterpillar Pseudospinx tetrio, are unexploited resources. However, they are known to have an interesting antimicrobial activity. In this short communication, we propose a way of valorization of these resources. Indeed, the antiviral effect conferred by the molecules extracted from Allamanda cathartica L. leaves and caterpillars are tested against a virus that has become strongly known in 2019, the SARS-CoV-2. Preliminary results against this virus are promising and highlighted by biological tests performed on organic or aqueous extracts.
Enhanced Oxygen Tolerance in CO2 Electroreduction to Formic Acid on SnO2/CN Catalyst through Alkali-Heat Treatment
The electro-reduction of carbon dioxide (eCO2RR) to formic acid (HCOOH) is very selective while employing the composite catalyst tin oxide/carbon nitride (SnO2/CN). However, the abundance of O2 and the minimal level of CO2 in industrial exhaust gases prevent the catalyst's electrocatalytic activity. The current study employs alkali-heat intervention in the CN payload manufacturing process to increase the electrocatalytic yield and O2 tolerance of SnO2/CN. XPS spectroscopy found that alkali-heat therapy enhances CO2 adsorption and raises the alkaloid level of composite catalyst by revealing a greater percentage of CN's surface amino groups. The improved metal-support contact allowed electrons to flow from the nitrogen of alkali heated CN to tin (Sn), resulting in exceptionally electron-rich Sn species nuclei that facilitated CO2 activation and reduction. A CO2 temperature-designed desorption study showed that the catalyst and CO2 bond more strongly after alkali-heat treatment. A multi-component competitive adsorption curve study indicated more advantages to the alkali-heat process for CO2/O2 separation. Electrolytic studies demonstrated a faradaic efficiency (FE) of 90.5% for HCOOH at a potential of -1.5V (vs. Ag/AgCl) after two hours with alkali heated SnO2/CN. Even in the presence of simulated industry exhaust gas FEHCOOH was 69.4%, showing greater oxygen endurance than untreated SnO2/CN.
Interaction between PSD 95 and TRPV4 through PDZ Domain Controls TRPV4’s Localization and Activity
The TRPV4 cation channel, is expressed in a broad range of tissues where it participates in generation of Ca2+ signal and/or depolarization of membrane potential. Here, we identified post synaptic density protein 95 (PSD95) as an interacting protein of this epithelial Ca2+ channel using confocal microscopy analysis and immunological assay. Using co-immunoprecipitation assays, we demonstrated that PSD95 was part of the TRPV4 protein complex. PSD95 protein was specifically associated with the C-terminal tail of TRPV4 to form a complex. A TRPV4 tail deletion mutant (ΔDAPL871: 4d) exhibited a diminished capacity to bind PSD95. Confocal microscopy analysis suggested that apical localization of TRPV4 required PSD95–TRPV4 interaction. Our data clearly suggest that formation of a complex between TRPV4 and PSD95 can regulate TRPV4 membrane localization. Both TRPV4 Ca2+ channel and its autophagy activity of 4d were reduced by more than 80% compared to those of the TRPV4 wild type. Our observation suggests that PSD95–TRPV4 complex plays crucial roles in routing TRPV4 to the apical plasma membrane and maintaining its authentic Ca2+ channel and biological function.
Assessment General Anxiety Disorder among University Students during the COVID-19 Pandemic in Sudan
Introduction: COVID-19 disease and its preventive measures are likely to increase anxiety levels among individuals. Methodology: A cross-sectional study conducted among Sudanese university students in August 2020. Generalized anxiety disorder scale (GAD-7) was used to assess the anxiety level through an online questionnaire. We used a simple random sampling technique, sample size was 664, and the collected responses an 847 with 98.7 response rate. The data analyzed by Statistical Package for the Social Science (SPSS) version 20. Result: Among the participants, 558 (65.8%) were female, Female: Male ratio 1 :1.9 ,569 (67.2%) were living in urban areas and 682 (80.4) were worrying about the academic delay. Minimal, mild, moderate and severe anxiety were reported by 307 (35.8%), 350 (40.8%), 118 (13.8%) and 72 (8.4%) of the respondents, respectively. There was powerful statistically significant association between the variables and anxiety levels (p=.000). Conclusion: The study was one of the earliest studies to explore the anxiety levels and association factors on students in the initial stage of COVID_19 in Sudan. Furthermore, the findings can be used at the government and university levels to build strategies that will reduce anxiety among university students in a similar pandemic in the future.
Application of Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy to determine Mineral and Heavy Metal distribution level of Medicinal Plants
This study was done to apply the technique of atomic absorption spectrophotometery in the field of pharmacy to ensure the quality and purity of herbal plant material. In this regard samples of Justicia adhatoda were collected, dried, weighted, digested and analyzed using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer for their mineral contents (Copper, Chromium, Zinc, Cobalt, and Iron) as well as toxic heavy metal (Lead and Cadmium) contamination. A comparative study of two different sample preparation techniques i.e. dry ashing and wet digestion protocols was carried out in order to observe the effects of sample pre treatment on the qualitative and quantitative analysis prior to atomic absorption spectroscopic analysis. After spectroscopic analysis statistical evaluation of the data was performed using. On the basis of statistical evaluation using t-test (p<0.05), it was concluded that wet digestion method was found more significant for the analysis of Pb, Cu, Zn, Ni, and Fe. Moreover another comparison was also performed among 3 different samples collected from three various sites of Karachi city to detect changes in metallic composition. Application of one way ANOVA followed by Duncan test indicated no significant difference in Pb, Cd, and Zn concentrations collected from all three zones(p<0.05). It can be concluded that atomic absorption spectroscopy can successfully utilized to monitor toxic metal contamination as well as to determine essential metal profile in herbs.
Copyright (c) 2023 Journal of Analytical Techniques and Research
Design of an Advanced Plasmonic Sensor (Consisting of A Quadrilateral Cavity, Three Rings with Different Dimensions and Two Waveguides) Using Refractive Index Change
Using two metal insulated metal waveguides (MIM) and five resonator (a quadrilateral cavity and three rings with different dimensions), we design a plasmonic refractive index sensor. Using the time domain finite difference method, we examine and analyze the sensor performance (numerical analysis) and using the transmission line model method, we theoretically examine the performance of the sensor By summarizing these two methods and calculating the sensitivity coefficient S, quality coefficient Q and figure of merit (FOM), a plasmonic sensor with good performance is obtained. Using the supermods of the resonators, we will achieve a stable wavelength spectrum and a suitable and stable sensitivity coefficient spectrum. Challenges and changes that occur in different modes of this sensor will lead to a balanced and relatively good structure. This designed sensor can be useful in the development of integrated optical circuits.
Plasmon-Induced Flexibility and Refractive Index Measurement in A Sensor Designed by a Cavity, Two Rings, Two Teeth and Two Plasmonic Waveguides
In this research, we design a plasmonic refractive index sensor and examine it numerically, using transparency, refractive index, sensitivity, FOM fit shape and Q quality factor, to optimize and improve performance quality. We will be. To design the structure of this sensor, we use two plasmonic waveguides, a cavity, two rings and two teeth. The resonant wavelengths and refractive index of the resonators are investigated and simulated by the finite difference time domain (FDTD) method, and we draw the obtained diagrams using MATLAB software. After completing the sensor design, due to the fact that the amplifiers are very sensitive to changes in the refractive index, so by changing the refractive index and changing the dimensions of the structure, we can weaken or strengthen the passage coefficient in the resonant modes. These plasmonic sensors with a simple frame and high optical resolution can be used to measure refractive index in the medical, chemical and food industries.
Dynamic Regulation of MALAT1 in Leader Cell Formation and Collective Cancer Invasion
The primary mechanism in cancer metastasis, collective invasion is becoming more widely recognized. Leader cells are specially trained cancer cells that invading the tumors. They are crucial in establishing invasion pathways, organizing follower cells, and facilitating the survival of cancer cells throughout the metastatic cascade. To aid group invasion, these leader cells activate a variety of mechanical, genomic, and metabolomic pathways. Leader cell development and function are influenced by stromal cells, matrix properties, genetic and epigenetic factors, and more.
Conventional Frontal Air Sinus Imaging in Personal Identification among Adult Bangladeshi
The frontal air sinuses are essential for anatomists, radiologists, anthropologists, dentists, and clinicians to diagnose diseases. Identifying unknown persons, sex differentiation, and age determination are vital in forensic investigations because individuals' frontal air sinus characteristics make the frontal bone unique for every individual. This study aimed to determine differences in frontal air sinus width by height ratio among Bangladeshi adults. In the Department of Anatomy of Dhaka Medical College, Bangladesh, a cross-sectional analytical study was done by applying conventional and purposive sampling techniques. This study was conducted from January 2016 to December 2016. The analysis was performed on 100 radiographs of the Caldwell view of the skull of adult Bangladeshis. Out of 100 radiographs, 50 were male, and 50 were female. The Caldwell radiograph of the frontal air sinus of the selected individual was collected and viewed on the x-ray view box, traced on a transparent graph paper sheet placed on each radiograph film, and the linear measurements of frontal air sinus height and width were obtained from each radiograph by counting the boxes of transparent graph paper sheet. Then the ratio of width by size was calculated by dividing the width of the frontal air sinus by the height of the frontal air sinus individually. Unpaired Student's t-test and paired Student's t-test were done for statistical analysis of the results. The adult male left frontal air sinus width by height ratio was significantly higher than the right frontal air sinus width by height ratio, but adult female shows that right frontal air sinus width by height ratio was higher than the left frontal air sinus width by height ratio, which was not significant. Both right frontal air sinus and left frontal air sinus width by height ratio were higher in males than females, which was highly significant. The result demonstrates that the cost-effective, non-invasive, and widely applicable Caldwell view radiological morphometric analysis of frontal air sinus can be used to identify an unknown person due to the unique morphological value of the frontal air sinus in every individual.
Phenotypic variability in expressivity and deleterious capability of the homozygous UGT1A1*28 genotype
Background : The UGT1A1*28 polymorphism (rs3064744) is responsible for Gilbert's Syndrome (GS) and is characterized by allelic variability based on TA repeats in the TATA sequence of the UGT1A1 gene promoter, whose alleles 7TA and 8TA are associated with elevated bilirubin, as well as an increased risk of certain neoplasms and adverse reactions to the chemotherapy Irinotecan. In contrast, the existence of hyperbilirubinemia has been considered a preventive factor for certain cardiovascular and oncological pathologies. We analyzed the allelic distribution of the UGT1A1 allele in the Valencian population with hyperbilirubinemia and Valencian patients diagnosed with digestive neoplasms; we studied their biochemical profiles, specifically comparing individuals with the UGT1A1*28 genotype in homozygosis of both groups. Methods : We collected a sample of 1,358 individuals: 621 patients with suspected GS (cases) and 737 individuals affected by one oncological disease (possible reference population). After extracting DNA, samples were analyzed the number of TA repeats by both Sanger sequencing and fragment analysis technique. In addition, the clinical history and set of analytical parameters of 242 patients carrying the genotype UGT1A1*28 in homozygosis were reviewed, with special attention to the consecutive measurement of bilirubin levels. Results : The differences in the distribution of the UGT1A1*28 genotypes in both groups, heterozygous and homozygous, were statistically significant; the homozygous UGT1A1*28 genotype reached 55.4% among patients with suspected GS. Severe H-W E deviations were observed in this group (OR: 45.37), while in cancer patients they were distributed according to the H-W E balance. Bilirubin levels in the group of homozygous UGT1A1*28 individuals among oncology patients were lower, showing a higher risk (OR: 2.86) in males. <stro
The Most Cited Articles in Neuroimaging for Depression: A Bibliometric Analysis of the Top 100 Most Highly Cited Articles Between 1992 and 2020
Objectives: The goal of this study was to assess the current state and trends in neuroimaging for depression over the last four decades, using bibliometric analysis to give researchers fresh ideas for the future study area. Methods: The Web of Science Core Collection was used to pull papers about neuroimaging for depression published between 1992 and 2021. We utilized the included articles to look at data on neuroimaging and depression publications, countries, institutions, cited journals, cited authors, cited references, keywords, and citation bursts. Results: From 1992 to 2021, 5153 publications were pulled. In these last four decades, we selected the most prestigious journals, countries, institutions, and authors in neuroimaging modalities in depression. The keyword "major depression disorder" came in first for research discoveries with the most elevated citation burst. "Neuroimaging," "depression," "bipolar," "unipolar," and "anxiety" were the five hot themes in neuroimaging on depression. Conclusions: The findings of this bibliometric analysis provide insight into current research patterns in neuroimaging for depression, as well as the present status and trends of the last four decades, which may aid investigators in determining the field's current status hotspots, and frontier tendencies.
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UPLC-MS analysis of characterization of bioactive compounds produced by endophytic Bacillus tequilensis ALR-2 from Aloe vera plant
Endophytic Bacillus tequilensis ALR-2 isolated from Aloe vera plant, was found to have antimicrobial activities attributed to a series of lipopeptide antibiotics and biosurfactants produced. Partial-purification of ethylacetate extracts by column chromatography revealed that fraction SF5 (5mg mL-1) effectively inhibited Bacillus cereus and Staphylococcus aureus (28.6±0.5 and 30.3±0.5 mm zone of inhibition, respectively), and was significantly more effective than the standard antibiotics Ciprofloxacin (5μg) (23.6 ±0.5 and 18.6 ±0.5 mm, respectively) and Kanamycin (30μg) (20.3 ±0.5 and 13.6 ±0.5 mm, respectively). UPLC-MS analysis of SF5 showed three series of ion peaks. The quadrupole-orthogonal ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometer revealed [M+H]+ of 678.4601; 679.4690 and 680.5076 which corresponded to the oligopeptide antibiotic monamycin (mol. wt. 677.84). The [M+H]+ of 1119.8870; 1120.8992 and 1121.9119 corresponded to antibiotic complex 61-26 (mol. wt. 1120.348), a lipopeptide. The third peak of [M+H]+ of 1356.0151 and 1358.0664 could not be classified to existing known compounds in the literatures.
Assessment of the Agglutination Test for the Identification of Staphylococcus Aureus Isolates
Background: Staphylococcus aureus are among the most important and several pathogens in human infections. Objectives: The objectives of this study are to evaluate the efficacy of the agglutination test in the detection of Staphylococcus aureus in the laboratory and to identify the factors associated with staphylococcal infections. Methods: It is a prospective study of 100 isolates of staphylococci in a period of nine months from May 2021 to January 2022 in the University Hospital of Befelatanana. Results: Among of the 100 isolates of staphylococci, 49 (49%) were represented by Staphylococcus aureus. Concerning the prediction performance of the agglutination test, it has a sensitivity of 93.8%, a specificity of 100%, a positive predictive value of 100% and a negative predictive value of 94.7%. Concerning the associated factors, the men (63%) (p=0.002), the patients aged 40 to 59 years (63%) (p=0.3; NS) and with suppuration (75%) (p=0.004) were the most affected by Staphylococcus aureus. Moreover, Staphylococcus aureus was often identified in pus samples (72.4%) (p=0.0009). Conclusion: In brief, agglutination test is a good test and can replace the standard gold test for the detection of Staphylococcus aureus.
Comparison of Bis-Plus-D and API 20 Strep for the Identification of Streptococci in the Laboratory of the University Hospital of Befelatanana Antananarivo Madagascar
Background: In medical analysis laboratories, techniques for identifying bacteria are currently becoming more and more numerous. The objective of this study is to compare the Bis-Plus-D and the API 20 Strep for the identification of streptococci Methods: During the study period, 22 Gram-positive coci isolates were identified using Api 20 Strep and Bis-Plus-D. Results: During the study period, 22 isolates of streptococci were identified simultaneously using Bis-Plus-D and Api 20 Strep. The streptococci identified were represented by Streptococcus anginosus, Streptococcus agalactiae, Streptococcus uberis, Enterococcus columbae, Streptococcus pyogenes, Streptococcus constellatus, Enterococcus durans Enterococcus casseliflavus, Enterococcus faecalis and Enterococcus faecium. This study showed 50% of discordant results between Bis-Plus-D and Api 20 Strep. Regarding the bacterial identification qualities, they were all excellent (100%) for Api 20 Strep. For Bis-Plus-D, the identification qualities were excellent for 36.4% of bacteria, very good for 36.4% of bacteria, good for 22.7% of bacteria and intermediate for 4.5% of bacteria. Concerning the probability scores for exact identification of bacteria, they vary between 82% to 100% for Api 20 Strep and between 62.6% to 99.9% for Bis-Plus-D. Conclusion: Api 20 Strep remains the best identification bacterial system and can be used by all bacteriology laboratories for good identification of bacterial species.
One for All and All in One: Modified Silica Kit-based Protocol for simultaneous sample-specific Extraction of DNA from a Variety of Source Materials
Protocols utilized for the extraction of DNA vary significantly with regards to steps involved and duration of the overall procedure due to materialspecific requirements for ensuring the highest possible yield in recovery of DNA. This variation mostly affects aspects of sample preparation and digestion steps required to release the DNA from the sample material. In contexts such as the development of new PCR-based assays- which always includes a test of species-specificity- reference samples from a number of species are utilized, requiring extraction of DNA from a variety of source materials, each with their specific conditions for effective isolation of DNA. The method presented here follows the strategy of synchronizing sample material-specific aspects such as sample preparation and digestion in such a way that one common protocol can be utilized for the actual extraction and purification of the DNA, allowing for an overall more efficient extraction process, while maintaining optimized conditions for DNA recovery.