Determination Of pH Research Articles

Fabrication and Characterization of Tolnaftate Loaded Topical Nanoemulgel for the Treatment of Onychomycosis

The core objective of this work was to formulate nanoemulgel containing tolnaftate loaded for sustained delivery of the treatment of onychomycosis. Onychomycosis was not regarded as a serious infection until quite recently. The oral antifungal therapy for onychomycosis usually lasts long and brings a set of adverse effects, especially hepato-toxicity and drug interactions. The incidence of onychomycosis in with more prevalent in warm humid climates topical therapy is usually prescribed only in mild cases. It prevails among around 5% of the total world population and affects toenails much more than fingernails. The incidence of onychomycosis with more prevalent in warm humid climates so an attempt has been made to develop nanoemulsion containing tolnaftate. Formulations were optimized by factorial design. Developed formulations were evaluated and characterized for drug content-96.72, in-vitro release study-68.42%, SEM study. Based on the drug content, in-vitro release study, and SEM study, the optimized formulation was converted into nanoemulgel. The developed topical nanoemulgel was evaluated for the determination of pH 6.60, determination of spreadability 17.77 g.cm/sec, measurement of viscosity 12350 cp, drug content Study 96.52%, in-vitro drug release study 70.42% found to be effective and producing a sustained effect.

Formulation and Characterization of Piroxicam Emulgel for Topical Drug Delivery

The aim and objective of this research work was to formulate and evaluate Piroxicam Emugel for topical drug delivery. Various concentration of gelling agent were used for preparation of Piroxicam Emugel along with emulsifiers Tween-80 and Span-80 with glycerine as a humectants. The Clove oil and eucalyptus oil were used as permeation enhancer. The formulated Emulgel was characterized for their physical appearance, pH determination, spreadability, extrudability, drug content, in vitro drug release and stability studies. According to our results, the range of pH of the formulations was from 5.6±0.2 to 6.8±0.3 for final batches which is considered acceptable. Formulation F3, F4, F6 and F7 spreadability was found to be 32.03 ± 0.54 g.cm/sec, 30.79±0.2 g.cm/sec, 26.41±0.51 g.cm/sec and 30.44±0.6 g.cm/sec respectively. The Formulation F5 and F8 was prepared with higher concentration of carbopol i.e. 1.5 g were of in stiff category and the spreadabilty value found to be 18.14±0.36 g.cm/sec and 20.30±0.34 g.cm/sec respectively. The percentage swelling index was (F5, F6, F7 and F8) found to be 44.24 %, 27.35%, 31.98 % and 46.38 respectively. Extrudability of Formulation F5 and F8 was less i.e. 17.32± 0.5 gm/cm2 and 20.39±0.58 gm/cm2 respectively as containing higher concentration of polymer. Formulation F3, F4, F6, F7 having optimum concentration of polymer extrudability was good i.e. 30.47±0.52 gm/cm2, 27.39±0.6 gm/cm2, 29.49±0.56 gm/cm2 and 26.90±0.6 gm/cm2 respectively. Extrudability was decreased with an increase in concentration of Carbopol. Invitro drug release (98.45% in 8h) from the Emulgel, batch F7 was concluded as optimized batch. Drug release was in following order F5< F1< F3< F2< F4< F8 < F6 < F7. Presence of two Penetration enhancer’s Clove oil and Eucalyptus oil has resulted in better performance as compared to other formulations. All these developed emugel formulation have acceptable physical properties, hence F7 can be considered as the optimized formulation. From this research, the formulated Emulgel of Piroxicam would be an effective alternative to conventional delivery of Piroxicam for the management of pain and inflammation.

A Divergent Selection on Breast Meat Ultimate pH, a Key Factor for Chicken Meat Quality, is Associated With Different Circulating Lipid Profiles.

Background: Chicken meat has become a major source of protein for human consumption. However, the quality of the meat is not yet under control, especially since pH values that are too low or too high are often observed. In an attempt to get a better understanding of the genetic and biochemical determinants of the ultimate pH, two genetic lines of broilers were divergently selected for low (pHu−) or high (pHu+) breast meat pHu. In this study, the serum lipidome of 17-day-old broilers from both lines was screened for pHu markers using liquid-chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (LC-HRMS). Results: A total of 185 lipids belonging to 4 groups (glycerolipids, glycerophospholipids, sterols, sphingolipids) were identified in the sera of 268 broilers from the pHu lines by targeted lipidomics. The glycerolipids, which are involved in energy storage, were in higher concentration in the blood of pHu− birds. The glycerophospholipids (phosphatidylcholines, phosphatidylethanolamines) with long and polyunsaturated acyl chains were more abundant in pHu+ than in pHu− while the lysophosphatidylcholines and lysophosphatidylethanolamines, known to be associated with starch, were observed in higher quantity in the serum of the pHu− line. Finally, the concentration of the sterols and the ceramides, belonging to the sphingolipids class, were higher in the pHu+ and pHu−, respectively. Furthermore, orthogonal partial least-squares analyses highlighted a set of 68 lipids explaining 77% of the differences between the two broilers lines (R2Y = 0.77, Q2 = 0.67). Among these lipids, a subset of 40 predictors of the pHu value was identified with a Root Mean Squared Error of Estimation of 0.18 pH unit (R2Y = 0.69 and Q2 = 0.62). The predictive model of the pHu value was externally validated on 68 birds with a Root Mean Squared Error of Prediction of 0.25 pH unit. Conclusion: The sets of molecules identified will be useful for a better understanding of relationship between serum lipid profile and meat quality, and will contribute to define easily accessible pHu biomarkers on live birds that could be useful in genetic selection.

ANALISIS PENANGANAN HASIL TANGKAPAN NELAYAN YANG DIDARATKAN DI TEMPAT PENDARATAN IKAN BEBA KABUPATEN TAKALAR

The decline in quality and high post-harvest damage are caused by, among others, the way of catching, poor handling methods, the length of the supply chain, the inadequacy of handling facilities. The way fish are handled both on the ship and in the fish landing is directly related to the quality of the fish. This research was carried out for eight months, namely from April to December 2020, at the Beba Fish Landing Site (TPI) in Takalar Regency. The study aims to analyze the quality level of fish and how to handle fish caught by fishermen landed at TPI Beba Takalar. This research was conducted by survey method through direct observation of fish landed by fishermen at TPI Beba Takalar. The types of fish selected are 10 types of fish that are predominantly landed at the study site. The survey was conducted to collect data on fish quality quality by observing the pH parameters and organoleptic properties of fish including eye conditions, gills, odor, and texture. Observations were also made on how fish were handled in TPI. The data analysis carried out is the determination of pH and organoleptic properties. The results showed that the average organoleptic test results in sample fish were values of 7-8, these values showed that the quality of fish freshness was still good. Meanwhile, the results of measuring the average pH of fish 6.5 - 7.0 show that fish still have good freshness quality. The way the fish handling is carried out at the Beba Landing Site still generally uses coarse ice with improper handling methods.

Determination and Correlation of pH and Electrical Conductivity of Assosa Agricultural Research Center Sites Soil

Soil pH has high impact on soil biogeochemical processes in the natural environment. Soil pH is thus referred to as the "master soil variable" because it influences a plethora of soil biological, chemical, and physical properties as well as processes that affect plant growth and biomass yield. Having the correct pH is crucial for the healthy plant growth as it will affect the amount of nutrient available to plants. This study was carried out to determine the soil pH and electrical conductivity value in acidic soil and their correlation. The soil samples were collected at two research sites at depth of 0 - 20cm. The study showed that electrical conductivity parameter had significant negative correlation to soil pH with R2 = 0.8183.

Toward Better Characterization of a Free-Base Nicotine Fraction in e-Liquids and Aerosols

Given that nicotine salts are a growing market, methods are needed to characterize nicotine forms in e-cigarette vaping products. By lowering the free-base nicotine fraction (αfb) in favor of protonated forms, the addition of organic acids to the e-liquid mix greatly modulates nicotine pharmacokinetics and improves vapers' craving. This research investigated (1) the performance of pH measurement, liquid-liquid extraction (LLE), and acid/nicotine molar ratio calculation methods for αfb estimation in 6 nicotine benzoate and nicotine salicylate e-liquids and (2) nicotine protonation in the aerosol post vaporization. Aerosols were generated with a JUUL device and another mod-pod on a vaping machine to assess device effects. E-liquid and aerosol samples were then analyzed after further analytical optimization of previous methods and careful consideration of biases. Globally, performances were comparable between methods. αfb accounted for less than 5% of nicotine content regardless of experimental conditions. αfb were consistent between e-liquids and aerosols irrespective of e-cigarette devices. Hence, e-liquids are adequate surrogates for aerosols, facilitating the establishment of regulations. pH measurement is one of the most used methods and enables the establishment of relative scales for e-liquid classification but lacks automation possibility. Until now, the extent of sample dilution remained arbitrary. The dilution factor was fixed at 10, as usually achieved, since no effect of dilution was noted. pH values ranged from 5.3 to 6.3 in accordance with the literature. By contrast, LLE relies on the specificity of organic solvent for free-base nicotine extraction, causing discrepancies in previous studies. Here, the results were similar to αfb values from pH determination. Yet, LLE presented the highest variability and was the most time-consuming protocol. Finally, αfb calculation from molar ratio was the most robust and versatile method. Estimations can be made in silico from reported composition data and/or after liquid chromatography routine analysis.

Development and characterization of niosomal gel of fusidic acid: in-vitro and ex-vivo approaches

ABSTRACT Niosomes are multilamellar vesicles that efficiently deliver active substance into skin systemic circulation or skin layers. They are used in topical drug delivery system to enhance the skin permeation of active substance. So, the prime objective of this study was to develop a niosomal gel of fusidic acid to increase its skin permeation. Different formulations of niosomes of fusidic acid were designed by varying the cholesterol to surfactant ratio. Formulations containing fusidic acid, cholesterol, dihexadecyl pyridinium chloride, Span 60, or Tween 60 were prepared by thin film hydration method in rotary evaporator. The thin film formed in rotary flask was hydrated by phosphate buffer saline of pH 7.2. The niosomes formed were characterized through entrapment efficiency, size, polydispersity index (PDI), and zeta potential. The S3 formulation containing span 60 showed the highest entrapment efficiency (EE) of niosomes, so it was incorporated into Carbopol gel. Determination of pH, spreadability, rheological, and ex vivo permeation studies was conducted of niosomal gel. The results of ex vivo permeation studies showed high permeation of fusidic acid when gel was applied to an albino rat skin. According to the results and previous studies of niosomes, it can be concluded that niosomes enhanced the permeation of fusidic acid through the skin.

Determination of free chlorine concentration and pH of the water using neural network based colorimetric method

Determination of free chlorine concentration and pH of the water using neural network based colorimetric method

The Formulation and Antioxidant Activity Test of Binahong (Anredera cordifolia) Leaves Extract Lotion

Background: With current wide range of scientific research regarding the benefits of antioxidants, many has tried to invent new sources of this compound. The use of plant-based source for antioxidants recently become more and more popular, and one of these plants is Binahong (Anredera cordifolia). The leaves of these plant had been analyzed before to contain antioxidant compound. Objective: This research aimed to test, based on previous claim of antioxidant activity of Binahong (Anredera cordifolia) leaves. Methods: The lotion used was formulated using Tween 60 and Span 60 as its emulgator. After test, it was determined that the emulsion type is water in oil (w/o). Before Binahong Leaves extract were incorporated, the lotion was tested for physical stability including organoleptics, emulsion type, pH determination, homogeneity, and viscosity. Results: The analysis for antioxidant activity by DPPH method of Binahong leaves extract with various concentrations of 12,5 μg/mL, 25 μg/mL, 50 μg/mL, 100 μg/mL, 200 μg/mL, 400 μg/mL, yield a value of IC50 822.22 µg/mL (mild antioxidant activity level). This result corroborates previous findings with the same result. Meanwhile, the lotion containing Binahong leaves extract with various concentrations of 25 μg/mL, 50 μg/mL, 100 μg/mL, 200 μg/mL, 400 μg/mL, 800 μg/mL were analyzed with same method and yield a value of IC50 27041.50 µg/mL. Conclusion: The result proved there was a further loss of antioxidant activity after the extract were incorporated into lotion. Keywords: Formulation, Anredera cordifolia, Antioxidant, Antioxidant Lotion, Binahong,

How radiolysis impacts astatine speciation?

This work deals with the impact of chloroform radiolysis on astatine chemistry. Astatine-211 is a promising radionuclide for the targeted alpha therapy of cancers. Yet, the production of 211At based radiopharmaceuticals is often complicated by radiolysis due to its own decay, leading to solvent degradation and then impacting astatine chemical state and radiolabeling efficiency. A better understanding of the radiolysis phenomenon is thus necessary. Two experiments are performed: (1) pH measurement during the At extraction in chloroform medium, (2) pH determination calculated from the HCl chemical yield which is obtained during the radiolysis of chloroform medium by γ-ray.In both cases, the pH values are determined at 2.0 ± 0.5. Then, it is possible to predict the acidic conditions during the 211At production by HCl radiolytic yield determination. This work demonstrated that the radiolysis induced by At during its production in CHCl3 medium should be taken into account as it has a significant effect on acid-basic conditions.The work helps understanding the mechanisms of production of a major impurity generated from 211At radiolysis in chloroform which alters its radiochemistry, allowing for the identification of solutions to counteract these unwanted effects.

Utility of Vaginal pH as Point of Care Test for Detection of Bacterial Vaginosis

Abstract Background & objectives: Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a Reproductive tract infection (RTI) among young sexually active women with high prevalence. It is associated with complications related to pregnancy and an increased risk of acquiring STDs. This poses a need for cost-effective detection of BV in low resource settings. Hence, we propose to study the utility of vaginal pH determination for the detection of BV. Material & Methods: This is a single center, 1 year cross-sectional study. Swabs were collected from 250 non-pregnant women attending the out-patient department of Obstetrics and Gynecology with vaginal discharge as a predominant symptom with or without backache and abdominal pain. Vaginal pH determination, Gram stain, wet mount, Whiff test, and Amsel’s criteria were used for BV detection. Results: 250 study participants with vaginal discharge suggestive of BV were analyzed. Vaginal pH was significantly higher in women with BV with the mean pH being 6.2. Vaginal pH >4.5 had a sensitivity of 85% and specificity of 66% to detect BV. The Whiff test had the least sensitivity. Clue cells and Amsel’s criteria of ≥ 3 were significant for BV. A combination of pH and Whiff test performed better had high sensitivity and specificity. Conclusions: A combination of pH determination and the Whiff test serves as a low-cost alternative in resource-poor settings for detection of BV. Though Clue cells and Amsel’s criteria ≥ 3 were most sensitive and specific, they cannot be used in low resource settings. Vaginal pH alone can be used to detect BV in areas of low prevalence.

Quantifying dietary acid load in U.S. cancer survivors: an exploratory study using NHANES data

BackgroundDiet is an important determinant of systemic pH and acid–base regulation. A frequent consumption of acid-inducing foods (including processed meats and cheese) combined with a low intake of base-inducing foods (such as fruits, legumes and vegetables) increases Dietary Acid Load (DAL), which has been associated with an increased risk for certain cancers. DAL also appears to be of paramount importance in cancer survivors, in whom it was associated with increased mortality and poor overall physical health. Literature on DAL in cancer survivors, however, is scarce and limited to a few studies.MethodsUsing cross-sectional data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys (NHANES), we sought to quantify DAL in U.S. cancer survivors and contrasted the results to the general population. DAL was estimated using established formulas (Potential Renal Acid Load (PRAL) and Net Endogenous Acid Production (NEAP)).ResultsOur study comprised 19,413 participants, of which 1444 were self-reported cancer survivors. Almost 63% of cancer survivors were female (weighted proportion) with a mean age of 61.75 (0.51) years. DAL scores were consistently higher in cancer survivors (as compared to the general population) after adjustment for confounders in multivariate regression models. These differences, however, were not statistically significant (p = 0.506 for NEAPF, 0.768 for PRALR and 0.468 for NEAPR, respectively). Notably, DAL scores were positive throughout (> 0 mEq/d) in cancer survivors, suggesting an acidifying diet. Specific examples include mean PRALR scores > 11 mEq/d in cancer survivors aged 55 years and mean NEAPF scores > 50 mEq/d in cancer survivors aged 40–60 years).ConclusionsThe acidifying diet in this sample of cancer survivors warrants caution and requires further investigation. Comparably high DAL scores have been associated with adverse health outcomes and an increased mortality in previous studies in breast cancer survivors. Thus, increased awareness as well as additional clinical trials in this field are urgently warranted.

Use of first bicarbonate after out-of-hospital cardiac arrest to predict mortality

Abstract Funding Acknowledgements Type of funding sources: None. Background Recovered out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) is associated with high morbidity and mortality. Having prognostic tools within the first hours of admission to hospital is critical. The pH is a widespread arterial blood gas marker, but the influence of its respiratory/metabolic components has not yet been established. Purpose The objective of the study is to analyze the utility of first bicarbonate measure as a predictor of in-hospital mortality after OHCA. Methods This is a prospective observational study carried out on survivors to the initial phase of an OHCA, who were admitted to the Acute Cardiovascular Care Unit of our single terciary center. Clinical characteristics and initial blood gas data were analyzed. The primary objective was in-hospital mortality. Results A total of 50 patients were included (2019-2021), of which 40% died during the course of the hospitalization. First pH determination showed significant differences between survivors and dead. Of its two components, the bicarbonate was lower in the patients who died (13.93 ± 3.01 vs. 18.48 ± 4.15, p <0.001) while the CO2 partial pressure (PCO2) did not show differences (53.89 ± 14.43 vs. 50.31 ± 13.07, p = 0.377). A ROC analysis was performed, and the bicarbonate had the best AUC as a mortality predictor (0.819, CI 95% 0.695-0.944, p<0.0001), compared to lactate (0.793, CI 95% 0.663-0.923, p=0.001) and pH (0.781, CI 95% 0.650-0.913, p=0.001). The best cut-off value for bicarbonate was 16.5 mmol / L (Log-rank < 0.0001), with a sensitivity of 84% and a specificity of 79% to predict survival. Conclusions Bicarbonate was the best initial predictor of mortality after an OHCA, above pH, which, although being a good predictor, is potentially altered by PCO2 (which was not a good predictor).

Compatibility and Stability of Ten Commonly Used Clinical Drugs in Pediatric Electrolyte Supplements Injection

ObjectivePediatric electrolyte supplements injection is mainly used to supplement heat and body fluid, and commonly used in pediatrics. Its compatibility and stability with common clinical drugs such as antibiotics was rarely reported to ensure the children’s safety and the rational use of drugs. The aim of the present study was to investigate physical and chemical stability of pediatric electrolyte supplements injection mixed with ten commonly used clinical drugs.MethodsAccording to clinical drug concentration, we mix the pediatric electrolyte supplements injection mixed with ten drugs. The compatible solutions were withdrawn at certain time intervals (0, 0.5, 1, 2, 4, 6 hours) after mixing and tested by description, insoluble particles detection, pH determination and high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) assay of active ingredient as measures of physicochemical compatibility.ResultsNo obvious appearance changes were observed when mixing. Furthermore, over the 6 hours post-preparation period the pH values were within the requirements of each drug quality standard and the number of insoluble particles (≥10 and ≥25μm) met requirements of Chinese Pharmacopeia (Edition 2020) except for mezlocillin sodium for injection. The percentages of the initial concentrations maintained at a minimum of 97% in the mixtures within 6 hours.ConclusionsNine commonly used clinical drugs remained stable in the pediatric electrolyte supplements injection for 6 hours at 25°C and avoiding from light. Mezlocillin sodium for injection was not recommended to be combined with electrolyte supplement injection for children because its insoluble particles exceed the standard.

Experimental long-term sub-normothermic machine perfusion for non-allocable human liver grafts: first data towards feasibility

Summary Background Patients with end-stage liver disease can only be cured by liver transplantation. Due to the gap between demand and supply, surgeons are forced to use expanded criteria donor (ECD) organs, which are more susceptible to ischemia–reperfusion injury (IRI). Therefore, enhanced storing techniques are required. Machine perfusion (MP) has moved into the spotlight of research because of its feasibility for investigating liver function prior to implantation. However, as the perfect MP protocol has not yet been found, we aimed to investigate the potential of sub-normothermic (SN)MP in this field. Methods Non-allocable human livers were subjected to 24 h of SNMP at 21 °C after delivery to the study team. Perfusion was performed with Custodiol® (Dr. Franz Köhler Chemie, Bensheim, Germany) or Belzer MPS® (Bridge to Life Europe, London, UK) and perfusate liver parameters were determined. For determination of biliary conditions, pH, glucose, and HCO3- levels were measured. Results Liver parameters were slightly increased irrespective of perfusate or reason for liver rejection during 24 h of perfusion. Six livers failed to produce bile completely, whereas the remaining 10 livers produced between 2.4 ml and 179 ml of bile. Biliary carbonate was increased in all but one liver. The bile-glucose-to-perfusate-glucose ratio was near 1 for most of the organs and bile pH was above 7 in all but one case. Conclusion This study provides promising data on the feasibility of long-term SNMP as a tool to gain time during MP to optimize ECD organs to decrease the gap between organ demand and supply. Long-term (24 h) sub-normothermic liver machine perfusion seems to be possible, although some adjustments to the protocol might be necessary to improve the general outcome. This has so far been shown for normothermic machine perfusion, bearing some drawbacks compared to the sub-normothermic variant.

Maize starch derived boron doped carbon spheres via facile solvothermal route as the photoluminescence sensor for determination of pH and Cr(VI)

In this work, a kind of boron doped carbon spheres (B-CSs) was successfully synthesized utilizing maize starch as carbon source and boric acid as dopant via facile solvothermal method. The chemical structure of the prepared B-CSs was systemically investigated by TEM, FT-IR, XRD, XPS and EDS. The synthesized B-CSs feature spherical structure with average size of ∼254 nm and exhibit strong photoluminescence (PL) with maximum emission at a wavelength of ∼453 nm under irradiation at 350 nm, leading to a quantum yield of 6.2%. Furthermore, the aqueous pH and Cr(VI) has a significantly various impact on the PL intensity of B-CSs, which can be flexibly utilized as the PL sensor for detection aqueous pH and Cr(VI) in aqueous. Particularly, the B-CSs have a desirable sensitivity and selectivity for detection of Cr(VI) with a low detection limit of ∼0.34 μmol l−1. Conclusively, our work provides a novel and dual-functional fluorescent sensor for detection of the pH and toxic metal ions in water environment.

Simple and Multivariate Linear Regression Models for pH Conversion Between Measurement Techniques

ABSTRACT Conversions of soil pH values between different methods are required for the standardization of data from international scientific literature, soil test reports and soil databases. All commonly employed matrices (H2O, 0.01 M CaCl2 and 1 M KCl) and relevant soil:solution ratios (1:1, 1:2.5, 1:4 and 1:5) used for pH measurement have yet to be compared using the same sample dataset. The combined effects of soil physiochemical properties on the accuracy and parsimony of soil pH conversions have also not been thoroughly examined. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the mathematical relation between the most common methods of pH determination. A diverse set of soil samples (n = 57) dominated by low-activity clays were used to calibrate simple and multilinear pH conversion models. The combined effects of soil texture, carbon content and salinity on model parsimony and accuracy were critically evaluated. All pH determination methods were found to be highly reproducible and relatable to one another. It was found that simple linear equations are the most effective means of converting pH values (r2 = 0.77–0.97; RMSE = 0.12–0.32), considering the trade-off between model complexity and accuracy. Simple direct conversion factors are not deemed sufficiently accurate for the purpose of agricultural management recommendations.

Formulation and evaluation of different hydrogels loaded with Florite®-based etodolac adsorbate: In vitro and in vivo correlation

Owing to its poor solubility and oral bioavailability, etodolac (ETD), a selective COX-2 inhibitor, was formulated in high-dose oral tablets, which affect the gastrointestinal tract and cause a peptic ulcer and bleeding. Therefore, the topical administration of such a drug is an alternative route of administration. In the present work, we aimed to increase the solubility and enhance the dissolution rate of ETD through its adsorption on the surface of an inert adsorbent carrier, Flourite R (FR). Three ratios of ETD:FR were 1:1, 5:1, and 10:1, w/w. The ETD-FR adsorbates were characterized and evaluated, using different techniques such as X-ray and DSC. Three different gelling bases were used to construct the different hydrogel systems loaded with the medicated adsorbates. The hydrogel systems were subjected to different physicochemical characterizations, such as visual inspection, pH determination, and the studies of viscosity, spreadability, and extrudability. Moreover, the in vitro release and in vivo anti-inflammatory effects on rats were studied and correlated. The results revealed that the solubility of ETD adsorbates was significantly improved, with an excellent dissolution rate of 100% was achieved within 5 minutes compared to its original dissolution profile of 50% after 3 h. The data output of the DSC and X-ray indicated the conversion of ETD from the crystalline form into an amorphous one via the adsorption process had a major role in ETD improvement solubility. The hydrogels’ bases-incorporated ETD-adsorbates were significantly providing a remarkable improvement of its in vitro release rates compared to the plain ETD. The in vivo anti-inflammatory activities of constructed hydrogel systems were recorded at higher values compared with indomethacin capsules, with an extended duration of action (8 h). In conclusion, the obtained data confirmed that the modified hydrogel systems are promising vehicles for topical application of ETD in an effective and safe manner.

“Counting drops and observing color”: Teachers’ and students’ first experiences in small-scale chemistry practicum of acid-base solutions

This research introduced small-scale chemistry practicum techniques on the concept of acid-base identification, determination of pH with indicators, and neutralization reactions with the concept of titration. This research aims to reveal teachers’ and students’ first experiences in small-scale chemistry practicum. This research is action research to introduce a small-scale practicum technique for the solution of minimizing chemical tools and materials, as well as the availability of space for school chemistry practicum. This study involved 26 teacher participants and 36 student participants. The data collected in the form of quantitative data related to teacher responses to small-scale chemistry practicum workshops and student responses to small-scale chemistry practicum in the pilot class. The instrument used is an activity response questionnaire. Qualitative data is collected through observation, interviews, and documentation. The practicum involves qualitative observations and quantitative calculations. The qualitative aspect relates to the observation of color changes that occur in the mixture of solutions made from acid and alkaline solutions with a certain composition. Teachers got a lot of inspiration in terms of practicing chemistry with fewer material requirements, as well as modifying the tools used for laboratory activities. The tool and material box package illustrated to them that practicum activities do not have to be carried out in a laboratory room, but can also be practiced in conventional classrooms, even done independently by students at home. Students have a unique experience in the process of counting the number of droplets because it requires concentration and careful observation.

Reduced dietary acid load in U.S. vegetarian adults: Results from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey.

Dietary acid load (DAL) is an important determinant of systemic pH and acid–base homeostasis. Diets abundant in acidogenic foods, such as meat and meat products, induce a low‐grade metabolic acidosis state that has been associated with cardiovascular disease, type‐2‐diabetes, and an increased cancer risk. Fruits and vegetables have alkalizing properties and beneficially affect DAL. It has thus been suggested that a plant‐based diet (restricting or excluding animal products) may be a powerful tool in reducing DAL; yet studies in that particular field are scarce. To explore these associations in greater detail, we examined DAL in self‐identified vegetarians from the United States National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2007–2010). We compared dietary intake and two widely used markers of DAL (PRAL (potential renal acid load) and NEAP (net endogenous acid production; NEAPF and NEAPR)) among 8,398 nonvegetarians and 191 lacto‐ovo‐vegetarians with reliable dietary intake aged 18 years or older. Vegetarians had a more favorable body mass index and consumed fewer calories (1862.31 kcal/d) than nonvegetarians (2041.12 kcal/d). Vegetarians consumed fewer protein (34.17 g/1000 kcal) and phosphorus compared to nonvegetarians (39.50 g of protein/1000 kcal) but had a higher intake of magnesium and potassium. Nonvegetarians exhibited higher median DAL scores (PRAL: 11.90 mEq/d, NEAPF: 53.59 mEq/d, NEAPR: 55.67 mEq/d) than vegetarians (PRAL: −0.44 mEq/d, NEAPF: 39.60 mEq/d, NEAPR: 41.30 mEq/d). Vegetarians had more favorable DAL scores compared to nonvegetarians in this descriptive epidemiologic study. Future (interventional) trials are warranted to examine the varying acid load in different plant‐based dietary patterns.