pH Meter Research Articles

Functional lumen imaging probe use in a high-volume practice: Practical and technical implications.

The functional lumen imaging probe (FLIP) is a Food and Drug Administration approved tool to aid the diagnosis and management of esophageal disorders. However, widespread adoption of FLIP remains limited and its utility in high-volume practices remains unclear. To analyze large sample data on clinical use of FLIP and provide insight on several technical aspects when performing FLIP. We conducted a retrospective comparative and descriptive analysis of FLIP procedures performed by a single provider at an academic medical center. There was a total of 398 FLIP procedures identified. Patient medical records were reviewed and data regarding demographics and procedural details were collected. Statistical tests, including chi-squared, t-test, and multivariable logistic and linear regression, were performed. There was an increase in FLIP cases with each successive time period of 13 months (n = 68, 146, 184, respectively) with notable rises specifically for indications of dysphagia and gastroesophageal reflux disease. There was a shift toward use of the longer FLIP balloon catheter for diagnostic purposes (overall 70.4% vs 29.6%, P < 0.01). Many cases (42.8%) were performed in conjunction with other diagnostics/interventions, such as dilation and wireless pH probe placement. Procedures were nearly equally performed with anesthesia vs moderate sedation (51.4% anesthesia), with no major complications. Patients who had anesthesia were less likely to have recurrent antegrade contractions [odds ratio (OR) = 0.4, 95%CI: 0.3-0.8] and were also more likely to have absent contractility (OR = 2.4, 95%CI: 1.3-4.4). FLIP cases have increased in our practice with expanding indications for its use. Given limited normative data, providers should be aware of several potential technical issues, including the possible impact of sedation choice when assessing esophageal motility patterns.

Effect of a brush tip on in-office bleaching gels in an attachable syringe: Hydrogen peroxide penetration, bleaching efficacy and amount of gel expended

ObjectiveEvaluate the penetration of hydrogen peroxide (HP) into the pulp chamber, bleaching efficacy (BE) and amount of gel expended during in-office bleaching using an applicator brush tip and conventional tip from different commercial brands. Materials and Methods104 human premolars were randomly distributed into thirteen groups (n = 8) according to the commercial brand: DSP White Clinic 35 % Calcium (DW), Nano White 35 % (NW), Total Blanc One-Step 35 % (TS), Whiteness HP Blue 35 % (WB), Potenza Bianco Pro SS 38 % (PB), Opalescence XTra Boost 40 % (OB), no bleaching (negative control), and application method: applicator brush tip and conventional tip for all groups. Initial HP concentration (%) was determined via titration and pH was measured with digital pH meter. Concentration (µg/mL) of HP into the pulp chamber was measured using UV–Vis spectrophotometry, the BE (ΔE*ab, ΔE00 and ΔWID) was evaluated with a digital spectrophotometer, and the amount of gel expended was evaluated using a precision analytical digital balance. Statistical analysis included two-way ANOVA, Tukey's, and Dunnett's test. Comparison between HP into the pulp chamber vs BE was performed with Person's correlation (α = 0.05). ResultsBrush tip demonstrated a low amount of HP in the pulp chamber compared to the conventional method for all bleaching gels (p < 0.0003), as well as lower amount of gel expended (p < 0.002). The brush tip did not result in a significant difference in BE compared to the conventional (p > 0.05). No correlations were found between both factors (p > 0.05). ConclusionBrush tip showed lower penetration of HP in the pulp chamber and a reduced volume of spent gel when compared to the conventional tip, for all commercial brands. Clinical relevanceBrush tip is recommended for bleaching gels in an attachable syringe due to its ability to reduce the penetration of HP into the pulp chamber and minimize the amount of bleaching gel used.

Physicochemical characterization, chemical composition and antioxidant activities of pyroligneous acids from cocktails of wood and agricultural residues from Ivory Coast

Physical, chemical characterization and antioxidant activities were assessed on six pyroligneous acids from four wood cocktails (WCV1, WCV2, WCV3, WCV4) and two types of agricultural residues (PA1, PA2) from Ivory Coast. Physical and chemical parameters of pyroligneous extracts were determined using a density meter, refractometer, pH meter, colorimetric titration, drying and sensory test. WCV2 alone simultaneously met all the standards set by the Japanese Pyroligneous Liquor Association, with a distinct smoky odour, a clear light-brown color, a pH of around 3, a density in the 1.010–1.020 g/mL range, and an ignition residue content of less than 0.2 %. In addition, WCV3, blackish in colour, had the highest Brix value (9) with a lower moisture content than the others (89.92 %), thus reflecting a high soluble tar content. Furthermore, all pyroligneous liquids had a high moisture content (89.92–99.08 %) and a low total acid content (0.90–2.10 %) compared with the literature. However, the results of GC-MS analysis revealed the presence of major compounds such as acetic acid, propionic acid, phenol, guaiacol and 3-methylphenol in the organic phase of pyroligneous extracts. FTIR analysis identified alkaloids, phenolic compounds and flavonoids in the aqueous phase of pyroligneous extracts. The presence of these compounds was confirmed by a phytochemical screening test. Finally, antioxidant activities with DPPH and ABTS methods showed that WCV2 had the best antioxidant properties due to its high guaiacol and syringol content. On the other hand, WCV3 showed a good antioxidant efficacy only by the DPPH method, probably due to its high flavonoid content.

Characterization of Anopheles Mosquitoes Larvae Breeding habitats in Selected Six Local Government Areas in Ekiti State, South-West Nigeria

This study explored the spatial distribution and attributes of Anopheles mosquito larvae breeding sites in six local government areas of Ekiti State, Nigeria. It employed a cross-sectional design, randomly sampling larvae habitats across three distinct locations, resulting in the assessment of a total of 18 breeding sites. The assessment of habitat characteristics and physico-chemical parameters of larvae breeding water-bodies was conducted through visual inspection and laboratory procedures, adhering to the standard protocol outlined by the World Health Organization (WHO). The objective of this study is to characteriseAnopheles mosquito larvae breeding habitats in six selected local government areas in Ekiti State using WHO protocol.. Two local governments were selected each from the three senatorial districts in the state and a survey was conducted to identify dams, rivers, swamps, marshlands, and temporary water ponds within each zone for Anopheles mosquito larvae using WHO protocols. Measurements of water temperature and pH were conducted twice in a week using a multi-parameter meter (PHB500- ww portable ph meter).Anopheles mosquito larvae were collected across the eighteen breeding sites in the selected six LGA in Ekiti using standard dipper, pasteur pipettes and scooping techniques and reared to adult in the laboratory. Most of the larvae habitats encountered were stagnant water bodies 10(56%) with the mean of 122.2 ± 41.20 followed by Tyre track 4(22%) with the mean of 129.8 ± 41.20, slowly flowing 2(11%) with the mean of 186.0 ± 16.97 and gutter 2(11%) with the mean of 170.0 ± 98.9. Types of breeding site across the six study area were all temporary sites 18(100%), more than half 13 (72%) of the habitats origin of water were natural, 11(61%) of the breeding habitats’ specific water body were stagnant water bodies. Furthermore, majority 14(78%) of the water bodies were polluted, 16(89%) were exposed to sunlight and it was also discovered that the all the breeding habitats across the six study area were around settlements (houses). Therefore physicochemical characteristics such as Temperature (r=0.896, p=0.016), pH (r=0.865, p=0.026) and Electrical conductivity (r=0.865, p=0.045) were significantly associated with larvae abundant with a strong positive correlation while the physicochemical characteristics such as DO and TDS were not significantly associated with larvae abundance .

Physicochemical Compatibility of Ceftolozane-Tazobactam with Parenteral Nutrition.

Ceftolozane-tazobactam (CT) is used for the treatment of complicated infections and for multidrug-resistant strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and extended-spectrum beta-lactamase-producing enterobacteria. In certain cases, simultaneous administration of CT and parenteral nutrition (PN) may be required, but compatibility of Y-site co-administration is unknown. The aim of this study was to analyse the physicochemical compatibility of CT Y-site administered with PN. We evaluated a protocolized PN approach for critical patients in our center. We studied both bolus infusion (2 g ceftolozane/1 g tazobactam in 1 h) and continuous infusion (CI) (6 g ceftolozane/3 g tazobactam) strategies. Samples were visually observed against light, microscopically inspected, and pH was analysed using a pH meter. The mean lipid droplet diameter (MDD) was determined via dynamic light scattering. CT concentration was quantified using HPLC-HRMS. No alterations were observed through visual or microscopic inspection. Changes in pH were ≤0.2, and changes in osmolarity were less than 5%. MDD remained below 500 nm (284.5 ± 2.1 for bolus CT and 286.8 ± 7.5 for CI CT). CT concentrations at t = 0 h and t = 24 h remained within prespecified parameters in both infusion strategies. CT is physiochemically compatible with PN during simulated Y-site administration at the tested concentration and infusion rates.

P-241 The in vivo human uterine pH and uterine fluid composition differs from pH and composition of clinically used in vitro preimplantation embryo culture media

Abstract Study question To study the pH and uterine fluid composition in the human uterus three days after a positive LH test or ovum pick-up. Summary answer The uterine pH three days after a positive LH test or ovum pick-up was 6.8. Concentrations of 37 components were determined in uterine fluid. What is known already In assisted reproductive technologies (ART), the in vitro culture of human preimplantation embryos is known to play a crucial role in the success of In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) treatments. It affects live birth rates and child outcomes such as birth weight. Numerous commercial embryo culture media are routinely used in clinical practice worldwide, but their composition is primarily based on laboratory-based clinical insights and experimental studies with animal models. Studies on the natural human preimplantation embryo environment during the physiologically relevant time of the menstrual cycle are limited. Study design, size, duration A cross sectional clinical study was conducted to study the uterine pH and the composition of human uterine fluid. The uterine pH was measured in 53 women on the third day after LH surge (N = 46) or ovum pickup (N = 7), as that time in the menstrual cycle is associated with endometrial receptivity for embryo implantation. Twenty-two samples of aspirated uterine fluid, that were collected at the same time, were analyzed for the concentrations of thirty-seven components. Participants/materials, setting, methods Healthy women of reproductive age with normal functional uterine anatomy were included. Uterine pH was determined using pH probe inserted through outer sheath of an Embryo Transfer (ET) catheter at the lithotomy position. Uterine fluid was then aspirated using a syringe connected to outer sheath of this ET catheter. Collected samples were analyzed using a Cobas 8000 chemistry analyser and ultra-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. Main results and the role of chance The mean pH in the uterine cavity on the third day after a positive LH test (6.75 ± 0.22) or ovum pick-up (6.82 ± 0.18) was clearly lower than the pH used in routine clinical practice for preimplantation embryo culture (pH 7.3 ± 0.1). Calcium, phosphate, lactate(L), pyruvate, albumin and 21 amino acids were present at different concentrations in human uterine fluid compared to most commonly used preimplantation embryo culture media. Immunoglobulins, citrulline, ornithine and uric acid were present in uterine fluid, but not in clinically used culture media. Limitations, reasons for caution As the uterine cavity is only one part of the reproductive tract, our measurements do not fully represent the complete in vivo environment of preimplantation embryo development. We only studied 37 components, recognizing that uterine fluid likely contains additional components. Wider implications of the findings The observed differences between the uterine pH and the composition of uterine fluid and the pH and composition of preimplantation embryo culture media used in routine clinical practice could be a starting point to further optimize in vitro embryo culture in ART treatments. Trial registration number Not applicable

Analysis of the Association between Stunting and Saliva Potential of Hydrogen (pH) in Preschool Children

Stunting can affect dental health due to changes in saliva content. Saliva that cannot work optimally will increase the risk of dental caries. The problem in this research is the high level of caries in preschool children at the DWP V Jatirejo Kindergarten. This study aims to determine the association between stunting and the potential of hydrogen (pH) in the saliva of preschool children at DWP V Jatirejo Kindergarten, Lekok District, Pasuruan Regency. The study design was an analytic observational with a cross-sectional approach, the sample in this study was 40 students who were determined using the Slovin formula with a proportional stratified random sampling technique. The stunting variable data collection method was measuring of Height/Age using microtoise and the saliva pH variable was measured using pH meters, and the data analysis techniques used the chi-squared test. Results: There is an association between stunting and the saliva pH in preschool children at DWP V Jatirejo Kindergarten. The Height/Age measurement results to determine the stunting status of respondents were found to be dominated by short height (stunted), and the saliva pH category of respondents was dominated by the acidic category.

Accuracy of pH strip testing and pH liquid testing versus standard pH meter of gastric contents in critically ill patients: a diagnostic accuracy study

ObjectiveThe utilisation of pH level measurements from gastric contents may indicate the preferred tip position of a nasogastric tube or monitor the efficacy of stress ulcer prophylaxis in critically ill...

Evaluation of the pH and Antibacterial Efficacy of Mineral Trioxide Aggregate With and Without the Incorporation of Titanium Tetrafluoride.

Introduction Microorganisms play an important role in causing inflammation in the pulp and periapical regions. Even after undergoing chemo-mechanical procedures during root canal treatment, bacteria may persist within dentinal tubules, posing a risk of disease recurrence. Mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA), introduced as a dental material, has been investigated as a potential antibacterial agent since its early use. Calcium and phosphorus are the primary ions in MTA, and their antibacterial characteristics are attributed to the release of calcium hydroxide through surface hydrolysis of calcium silicate components. Previous studies have shown that MTA has limited antimicrobial properties. Several alterations have been made to enhance the biological properties of MTA, such as incorporating nanoparticles made from silver, zinc, gold, and titanium. Therefore, in this study, titanium tetrafluoride (TiF4) was added to MTA in an effort to enhance its antimicrobial properties. Aim To compare and evaluate the antibacterial efficacy of MTA after the incorporation of TiF4. Materials and methods A total of 56 samples were made by mixing MTA with different weight proportions of TiF4 (1 wt%, 2 wt%, and 3 wt%). Out of these, 28 samples were taken to test each of the following properties: antibacterial efficacy and pH. The specimens were prepared using stainless steel molds of recommended dimensions for testing the pH. The pH was evaluated using a pH meter, and the antibacterial efficacy was assessed using the direct contact test. Data regarding the antibacterial efficacy and pH of MTA with various proportions of TiF4 were investigated for normality using the Kolmogorov-Smirnov test and assessed for normal distribution. The antibacterial properties among the four groups were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), followed by pairwise multiple comparisons using Tukey's Honest Significant Difference test. The level of statistical significance was determined at p ≤ 0.05. MTA, when incorporated with TiF4, showed enhanced antibacterial properties. Results On day 1, the group treated with MTA containing 3% TiF4 demonstrated the strongest antibacterial effectiveness, with a mean of 4.67 ± 0.04 colony-forming units (CFU)/mL × 10^8. However, the group treated with plain MTA had the lowest mean values, at 5.67 ± 0.25 CFU/mL × 10^8. On day 1, the MTA group with 3% TiF4 also had the highest mean pH values (11.90 ± 0.05), while the plain MTA group had the lowest mean pH values (11.64 ± 0.78). On day 7, the MTA group with 3% TiF4 had the highest pH value (12.85 ± 0.08), whereas the plain MTA group had the lowest pH value (11.92 ± 0.09). Conclusion The inclusion of TiF4 resulted in an augmentation of the antibacterial efficacy of MTA against Enterococcus faecalis (E. faecalis). Hence, the integration of TiF4 into MTA can be considered a promising development against E. faecalis during endodontic procedures.

Not all marketed skin cleansers' pH is optimal for atopic dermatitis.

Background: The normally acidic skin pH changes in atopic dermatitis (AD) to alkaline, which contributes to the associated skin-barrier dysfunction. Hence, acidic cleansers would be preferred, but such information is scarce. Objective: Guiding health-care providers and patients on selecting skin cleansers with a pH optimal for AD. Methods: A total of 250 products were tested: 37 soaps (32 bars, 5 liquid) and 213 syndets (14 bars, 199 liquid); 10% solutions were tested for pH by using a pH meter; pH values 6.65-7.35 were considered neutral. Results: The pH of the tested skin cleansers varied widely (3.59-10.83). All 37 soaps were highly alkaline. In the 14 syndet bars, the pH was neutral in 6, alkaline in 8, and acidic in none. In the 199 syndet liquids, the pH was acidic in 84.9%, neutral in 11.1%, and alkaline in 4.0%. The product's pH was disclosed in none of the 37 soaps and in only 32 syndets (15%) , of which 9 bars were labeled "balanced," whose measured pH was neutral in 6 and alkaline in 3. Of the other 23 syndets, the labeled pH was referred to as "balanced" in 20 whose measured pH was neutral in 2 (6.80, 6.88) and acidic in 18 (3.59-6.59). The pH in the other three syndets was 4.25-6.00. Conclusion: All tested soaps had undesirable pH, whereas 84.9% of the liquid syndets were acidic (which is desirable) and 11.1% were neutral (which could be acceptable). Only 12.8% of the products disclosed the pH, an issue in need of improvement.

The Association Between Dental Caries and Salivary Buffering Capacity in Syrian Patients Diagnosed with Sickle Cell Disease.

Background Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a genetic disorder caused by mutations in the HBB gene, resulting in the abnormal shape of red blood cells. This condition is accompanied by various oral manifestations including salivary gland dysfunction leading to a heightened susceptibility to dental caries. This disorder is primarily treated with hydroxyurea. This study aims to assess dental caries utilizing the decay, missing, filling teeth (DMFT) index and evaluate salivary buffering capacity in patients diagnosed with SCD (HbSS type). The study also aims to assess the relationship between DMFT and salivary buffering capacity. Additionally, the study aimed to find a correlation between treatment with hydroxyurea and changes in both dental caries and salivary buffering capacity. Methods This case-control study enrolled a total of 100 participants aged between 20 and 50 years. The participants were divided into two groups: the study group, which comprised 70 individuals diagnosed with SCD (HbSS type), who were asked to report their current use of hydroxyurea, and the control group, which included 30 healthy individuals. Dental caries were assessed using the DMFT index, while salivary buffering capacity was measured using a pH meter model 420A device. Results The study group exhibited a mean DMFT index value of 6.39 compared to 5.20 in the control group. This difference was statistically significant (P-value=0.037), indicating higher DMFT values among patients with SCD. Salivary buffering capacity was significantly lower in the study group compared to the control group, with average values of 6.47 and 6.88, (P-value=.022). Interestingly, the administration of hydroxyurea impacted salivary buffering capacity, resulting in lower values for individuals using the drug (P-value=0.039). Conversely, hydroxyurea did not have a significant effect on DMFT values (P-value=0.317). Conclusion SCD increases susceptibility to dental caries and is associated with significant changes in salivary composition. At the same time, the potential negative impact of hydroxyurea is acknowledged.

Pengaruh Penyimpanan Suhu Refrigerasi terhadap Karakteristik Fisik Organoleptik, Nilai pH, Cemaran Coliform dan Salmonella spp., Yoghurt Susu Kambing dengan Penambahan Tepung Bekatul Beras Merah

Yogurt is a fermented milk product made with the help of Lactic Acid Bacteria (LAB). Goat milk yogurt with the addition of red rice bran flour contains high antioxidants, making it very beneficial for health. This study aims to evaluate the effect of storage duration on the organoleptic physical characteristics, pH value, and contamination by Coliform and Salmonella spp. in goat milk yogurt with the addition of red rice bran flour. The study used 20 samples divided into five treatment groups based on storage duration (0, 1, 2, 3, and 4 weeks) at 4 ℃, with four repetitions. Each week, organoleptic physical characteristics were tested hedonically and hedonic quality assessed by 20 semi-trained panellists, pH measured with a digital pH meter, Coliform contamination tested using the Most Probable Number (MPN) method, and Salmonella spp. contamination tested using SSA media followed by TSIA media. Data analysis for organoleptic physical characteristics was conducted using the Kruskal-Wallis test followed by the Mann-Whitney test. Data analysis for pH and Coliform contamination was conducted using one-way ANOVA followed by the Tukey test. Data analysis for Salmonella spp. contamination was done descriptively. The results showed that the storage duration significantly affected the physical characteristics of appearance, taste, and aroma (p&lt;0.05) but did not significantly affect colour (p&gt;0.05). There were very significant differences in pH values and Coliform contamination (p&lt;0.01), whereas Salmonella spp. contamination was not affected by the storage duration. The conclusion of this study is that goat milk yogurt with the addition of red rice bran flour should be consumed within three weeks based on organoleptic physical characteristics, pH value, and levels of Coliform and Salmonella spp. contamination.

The Effect of Different Temperatures on Addition of Powdered Lactobacillus plantarum Dad-13 on Peanut Chocolate Jam Towards Total Lactic Acid Bacteria (LAB), Sublethal Injury, pH, and Total Acids

Lactobacillus plantarum Dad-13 is an indigenous probiotic that was isolated from Dadih. Peanut chocolate jam has the potential to be developed into a probiotic food product. However, peanut chocolate jam involves a heating process which can affect the number of probiotics and their metabolic processes. This research aims to determine the optimal temperature of L. plantarum Dad-13 probiotic powder in addition to peanut chocolate jam products. The different temperatures of probiotic powder L. plantarum Dad-13 addition at 30 oC, 40 oC, 50 oC, and 60 oC were used to measure total lactic acid bacteria (LAB), sublethal injury, pH value, and total acids. Total lactic acid bacteria and sublethal injury were measured by Total Plate Count (TPC), pH value was measured by pH meter and total acids were analyzed using the titration method. Results show significant differences (p&lt;0,05) on total lactic acid bacteria (LAB) and sublethal injury. Total lactic acid bacteria (LAB) resulting in a value of 8.04±0.02 to 7.67±0.05 and sublethal injury 0.04±0.01 to 0.26±0.03. Meanwhile, no significant differences (p&gt;0,05) in pH value (7.20±0.16 to 7.30±0.15) and total acids (0.09±0.01 to 0.08±0.01). The best temperature of L. plantarum Dad-13 probiotic powder addition on peanut chocolate jam was at 30–40 oC because it showed the highest amount of total lactic acid bacteria (LAB) and the least sublethal injury.

Evaluation and Comparison of Fracture Strength and Fluoride Releasing Properties of New Alkasite Materials with Conventional Restorative Material, Bulk Fill Composite and Glass Ionomer Cement: An In-Vitro Study.

This study aimed to evaluate and compare fluoride ion release by Cention-N (self-cure and light-cure) and conventional glass-ionomer cement (GIC) at different pH levels and time intervals. For fluoride release assessment, 240 samples (10 mm diameter, 2 mm height) of Cention-N and conventional glass-ionomer cement were created using rubber rings. Samples were stored in deionized water, and the cumulative fluoride ion release and change in pH were assessed using a spectrophotometer and pH meter, respectively, at the end of 7 days, 14 days, and 21 days. The obtained data were subjected to statistical analysis. All three samples exhibited very high fluoride release in an acidic medium compared to the neutral medium. Although GIC demonstrated superior fluoride release, Cention-N displayed adequate fluoride release over a longer duration. Within the limitations of this study, it can be concluded that both Glass ionomer cement and Cention-N showed an initial fluoride burst.

Signal-Sustained Imaging of Mitophagy with an Enzyme-Activatable Metabolic Lipid Labeling Probe

ABSTRACT Imaging of mitophagy is of significance as aberrant mitophagy is engaged in multiple diseases. Mitophagy has been imaged with synthetic or biotic pH sensors by reporting pH acidification en route delivery into lysosomes. To circumvent uncertainty of acidity-dependent signals, we herein report an enzyme-activatable probe covalently attached on mitochondrial inner membrane (ECAM) for signal-persist mitophagy imaging. ECAM is operated via ΔΨm-driven accumulation of Mito-proGreen in mitochondria and covalent linking of the trapped probe with azidophospholipids metabolically incorporated into the mitochondrial inner membrane. Upon mitophagy, ECAM is delivered into lysosomes and hydrolyzed by LNPEP/leucyl aminopeptidase, yielding turn-on green fluorescence that is immune to lysosomal acidity changes and stably retained in fixed cells. With ECAM, phorbol-12-myristate-13-acetate (PMA) was identified as a highly potent inducer of mitophagy. Overcoming signal susceptibility of pH probes and liability of ΔΨm probes to dissipation from stressed mitochondria, ECAM offers an attractive tool to study mitophagy and mitophagy-inducing therapeutic agents. Abbreviations: Baf-A1, bafilomycin A1; CCCP, carbonyl cyanide m-chlorophenylhydrazone; DBCO, dibenzocyclooctyne; ECAM, enzyme-activated probe covalently attached on mitochondrial inner membrane; GFP, green fluorescent protein; LAMP2, lysosomal associated membrane protein 2; LNPEP/LAP, leucyl and cystinyl aminopeptidase; PMA, phorbol-12-myristate-13-acetate; ΔΨm, mitochondrial transmembrane potential; RFP, red fluorescent protein; TPP, triphenylphosphonium.

Fluoride concentration and pH in bottled waters commercialized in Chile: Implications for oral health

An increased consumption of bottled water is overshadowing the traditional intake of tap water. Community water fluoridation is described an effective public measure for delivering fluoride (F) for dental caries prevention. Although community water fluoridation implementation varies regionally, it is desirable that our daily water contains optimal fluoride levels and a safe pH for dental health protection. Here, we determined F concentration and pH of commercially available bottled waters in Chile. Varieties (mineral, purified, and flavored) were obtained in duplicate from different batches. F and pH were measured using a calibrated F-specific ion electrode and pH meter, respectively. From 76 different brands, 100 % have F concentrations below the recommended range (0.6–1.0 ppm F), mineral water showing significantly higher levels (0.15±0.009; p<0.05) than purified (0.09±0.080), and flavored (0.07±0.063). Most brands exhibited levels below the critical pH for both enamel (71.05 %, n=54) and dentine (80.26 %, n=61). A 46.1 % (n=35) had values below pH 4. Flavored waters had significantly lower pH (3.19±0.12; p<0.05), than purified (6.16±2.81) and mineral (pH 6.21±2.59). The analyzed bottled water, regardless of type, lack sufficient F for caries prevention. Their low pH, particularly in flavored options, might be related to an increased risk of erosive tooth wear. Implementing fluoride and pH labeling is desirable to empower consumers to make informed decisions.

Effect of Salt Concentration and Fermentation Time In The Development of Anchovy (Stolephorus Sp) Bekasam as Tempura Raw Material

Purpose: This study aimed to analyze the effect of salt concentration and fermentation time on the chemical characteristics and lactic acid bacteria of anchovy bekasam, and the sensory evaluation of anchovy bekasam as a raw material for tempura. Methodology: The tests conducted included water content (thermogravimetry), pH (pH meter), fat content (soxhlet), bacterial count (TPC), and sensory evaluation (hedonic). The study used a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with two factors: salt concentration (15% and 20%) and fermentation time (4 days and 7 days).Results: The results indicated that both salt concentration and fermentation time significantly affected the water content, pH, and total lactic acid bacteria. The fat content was not significantly affected by the two factors but showed a decrease. Findings: Variations in salt concentration and fermentation time influenced the panelists' sensory preferences for color, aroma, taste, texture, and overall acceptability. The highest overall liking score was achieved by the sample with 15% salt concentration and 7 days of fermentation (K1L2). Novelty: This research provides insight into the optimal conditions for producing anchovy bekasam with desirable chemical and sensory properties, specifically for its use as a raw material for tempura. Originality: The study highlights the impact of different salt concentrations and fermentation times on both the chemical and sensory characteristics of bekasam, offering new information on improving its production process. Conclusions: The sample with 15% salt concentration and 7 days fermentation time yielded the most favorable results in terms of both chemical characteristics and sensory evaluation. Paper Type: Experimental Research Article Keywords: Bekasam; fish; fermentation; salt; tempura

Ultra-high sensitivity pH sensor based on vertical organic electrochemical transistors with extended gate.

Anultra-high sensitivity pH sensor based on vertical organic electrochemical transistors (vOECT) with extended gate was proposed. The vOECT, which exhibited high transconductance (gm), was forthe first time used in the preparation of apH sensor. The extended gate was modified by electrochemical deposition of polyaniline (PANI) using the cyclic voltammetry (CV) technique. Open circuit potential (OCP) measurements were used to optimize the scan rate, showing a super-Nernstian sensitivity at all scan rates. The pH sensor based on vOECT with extended gate was investigated at different pH levels, and it exhibited an ultra-high sensitivity of 3363.6 µA/pH in the pH range 5-9, which was about 36 times greater than the maximum current sensitivity (91 µA/pH) of other transistor-based pH sensors, to the best of our knowledge. This pH sensor performed excellently in terms of reversibility, long-term stability, and selectivity. To confirm the reliability of the pH sensor, we conducted measurements on real samples using this pH sensor and compared the results with those obtained from a standard pH meter. The ultra-high sensitivity pH sensor based on vOECT with extended gate offers a sensitive and promising alternative in environmental monitoring, food safety, chemistry, clinical diagnostics, and bio-sensing applications.

Comprehensive study on physico-chemical soil analysis for optimizing paddy (Oryza sativa L.) cultivation in Kamrup (Metro) district of Assam, India

Rice being the staple food in Assam, its productivity should be increased for the availability of the common people. The main objective of this study is to compare the qualities of soil samples and to correlate the results with the production (per year) of paddy (Oryza sativa) from 3 different studied areas. The soil samples were collected during March-May, 2023. The oven dry method and drying and weighing method are used to determine bulk and particle densities respectively. The electrical conductivity and pH of the soil samples are determined using a benchtop conductivity meter and pH meter. Walkley-Black chromic acid wet oxidation method and methylene blue method are used to determine the organic carbon and cation exchange capacity (CEC) of soil samples respectively. Nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium of the soil samples are estimated using the instrument Mridaparikshak. The moisture content, bulk density, particle density, soil porosity, cation exchange capacity (CEC), pH, electrical conductivity, nitrogen, P2O5, and K2O are observed in the range of 24.69 % to 39.42 %, 1.12 g cm-3 to 1.25 gcm-3, 1.83 gcm-3 to 1.99 g/cm-3, 33 to 43, 2.8 × 10-5mol dm-3to 11.7x10-5 mol dm-3, 7.4 to 8, 0.23 dS/m to 0.40 dS/m, 0.645% to 1.49%, 213.20 kg/ha - 235.14 kg/ha, 17.92 kg/ha - 20.44 kg/ha and 148.92 kg/ha -164.45 kg/ha respectively. The soil characterized by moisture content =27.52 %, bulk density=1.25 gcm-3, particle density =1.86 g cm-3, porosity =33%, cation exchange capacity =11.7 x 10-5 mol dm-3, pH {(1:5) at 210C} = 7.9, electrical conductivity = 0.40 dS/m, organic carbon =0.825 %, organic matter =1.42 %, N =235.14 kg/ha, P2O5 = 20.44 kg/ha and K2O =164.45 kg/ha showed good yield.

Morphological Sensitivity to pH of Silica and Chalk Nanocrystalline Self‐Organized Biomorphs

Inorganic–inorganic self‐organized composite architectures resulting from the chemical coupling of alkaline‐earth carbonate and polymeric silica are a promising alternative to organic‐based hybrid bio‐mimetic systems for developing innovative multi‐functional materials. Although the importance of pH in the generation of these structures reminiscent of primitive living organisms (and for this called biomorphs) is widely acknowledged, the effect of pH is generally investigated on the basis of starting pH value. This approach inadvertently neglects the important spatial and temporal pH gradients associated with biomorph nucleation and growth. A deep understanding of the role of pH on morphogenesis requires the ability to detect locally the pH in real‐time with a non‐invasive technique and correlate pH to the different stages of biomorphic growth. This aim is achieved by combining optical and fluorescence imaging. An accurately selected pH probe suitable for ratiometric pH measurement in the silica gel is exploited during a typical counter‐diffusion experiment. The results are compared with computer simulation of the synthesis of biomorphs by counter‐diffusion experiments. The results demonstrate the existence of two main morphogenetic regimes. Interestingly, the morphogenetic process controlling the complex shaping of biomorphs results to be independent of the silica speciation.