Rapid Screening Method Research Articles

A Rapid and Scalable Multiplex PCR-Based Next-Generation Amplicon Sequencing Method for Familial Hypercholesterolemia Genetic Screening.

Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) is a frequently underdiagnosed genetic disorder characterized by elevated low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels. Genetic testing of LDLR, APOB, and PCSK9 genes can identify variants in up to 80% of clinically diagnosed patients. However, limitations in time, scalability, and cost have hindered effective next-generation sequencing of these genes. Additionally, pharmacogenomic variants are associated with statin-induced adverse effects in FH patients. To address these challenges, we developed a multiplex primer-based amplicon sequencing approach for FH genetic testing. Multiplex primers were designed for the exons of the LDLR, APOB, and PCSK9 genes, as well as for pharmacogenomic variants rs4149056 (SLCO1B1:c.521T > A), rs2306283 (SLCO1B1:c.388A > G), and rs2231142 (ABCG2:c.421C > A). Analytical validation using samples with known pathogenic variants and clinical validation with 12 FH-suspected probands were conducted. Library preparation was based on a bead-based tagmentation method, and sequencing was conducted on the NovaSeq 6000 platform. Our approach ensured no amplicon dropouts, with over 100× coverage on each amplicon. Known variants in 2 samples were successfully detected. Further, we identified one heterozygous LDLR (p.Glu228Ter) variant and 2 homozygous cases of LDLR (p.Lys294Ter) and LDLR (p.Ser177Leu) variants in patients. Pharmacogenomic analysis revealed that overall 3 patients may require reduced statin doses. Our approach offered reduced library preparation time (approximately 3 h), greater scalability, and lower costs (under $50) for FH genetic testing. Our method effectively sequences LDLR, APOB, and PCSK9 genes including pharmacogenomic variants that will guide appropriate screening and statin dosing, thus increasing both efficiency and affordability.

Rapid and convenient screening method based on single-chain variable fragments for the detection of restricted monensin in chicken muscle

A colloidal gold immunochromatographic assay (CGIA) based on single-chain variable fragments (scFvs) has been successfully developed for the detection of monensin (MON). Colloidal gold probes were conjugated to anti-MON scFvs through electrostatic interaction, with the conjugated objects serving as the visual signals. The detection lines were formed by capturing the antibody with MON-OVA. This assay offers a rapid detection time of 15 min, a wide linear range from 2.19 to 10.76 ng mL−1, and boasts high accuracy, precision, and an absence of cross-reactivity. By homology modeling and molecular docking, we predicted the interaction patterns between the scFv and monensin, and the amino acid residues involved in the recognition of MON by the antibody were analyzed. These key amino acid sites are presumed integral to ligand recognition per current interaction models. This hypothesis was confirmed by computer-aided alanine scanning mutation, MM/P(G)BSA molecular dynamics simulation, and in vitro binding experiments. In this study, we successfully developed the scFvs-based CGIA system for rapid and easy quantification of monensin, providing a simple, efficient routine detection of chicken muscle samples.

Developing a machine learning-based rapid visual screening method for seismic assessment of existing buildings on a case study data from the 2015 Gorkha, Nepal earthquake

Developing a machine learning-based rapid visual screening method for seismic assessment of existing buildings on a case study data from the 2015 Gorkha, Nepal earthquake

Using AURAP Method in Determination of Building Earthquake Risk

Major earthquakes in our country cause heavy damages especially to buildings. Damage to buildings adversely affects people and their settlements. There are many factors that cause damage to buildings. The most important of these are the lack of engineering services and incorrect applications at the construction site. It is vital to identify any problems with buildings in advance. To do this, time is the most important concept. Rapid screening methods are advantageous in terms of time in determining the earthquake performance of buildings. Rapid screening methods are frequently used in highly urbanized areas. Rapid screening methods are of great benefit in classifying buildings according to their risk status. Düzce suffered heavy losses in the August 17, 1999 Marmara and November 12, 1999 Düzce Earthquakes. After the earthquake, there have been positive developments towards reconstruction in Düzce. However, there are still neighborhoods in the city where pre-earthquake constructions are dense. Among these neighbourhoods, Burhaniye District is connected to Düzce centre. Burhaniye neighborhood is a place where there are many buildings before 1999. In this study, the application and results of the AURAP Method, one of the rapid scanning methods, in a building built in 1979 in the Burhaniye District in the center of Düzce, will be explained.

Development of surface droplet evaporation-based sensing platform for screening lipase inhibitors

The development of new types of sensing platforms with excellent performance is always appealing. In this report, we demonstrate a low-cost and user-friendly sensing platform based on drying of the aqueous droplet on the surface. The principle relies on the transduction of the surfactant concentration into the area of the dried droplet on the surface. The screening of a lipase inhibitor is demonstrated as an example. When triacylglycerols (GT) and lipase are mixed, the aqueous droplet produces a large dried area on the surface. This phenomenon is attributed to the production of sodium oleate due to the enzymatic digestion of GT by lipase. It results in reduction of the surface tension and causes wetting and spreading of the droplet, leaving a large dried area on the surface. However, in the presence of orlistat, a lipase inhibitor, a small dried area is obtained due to the inhibition of lipase activity by orlistat. Using this method, the lipase inhibitor can be readily and effectively screened. Compared to previous studies, this method is simple, rapid, low-cost and avoids the use of labelled molecules and complex instrumentation, with an IC50 value of 0.59 ± 0.09 μM for orlistat. In addition, it also works well with a portable microscope and a smartphone interface for data analysis. Overall, this study provides a new method for rapid and cost-effective screening of lipase inhibitors.

Analysis and identification of the main antimicrobial metabolites of Lactobacillus plantarum LPZN19

BackgroundLactobacillus plantarum can produce many secondary metabolites, some of which have antibacterial effects. This study aimed to explore the main antimicrobial metabolites of Lactobacillus plantarum LPZN19. ResultsThe results of antibacterial activity after fermentation for different durations showed that the metabolites from the LPZN19 cell-free supernatant (LCFS) after 24 h had the strongest antibacterial activity, which was confirmed by the highest contents of organic acids and fatty acids in the LCFS after 24 h. Lactic acid, phenyllactic acid, malic acid, aspartic acid, dodecanoic acid and propionic acid were the main differentially abundant metabolites. LCFS was separated by semi-preparative liquid chromatography to obtain 4 antibacterial parts, mainly organic acids such as lactic acid, glycolic acid, and citric acid, and fatty acids such as stearic acid, palmitic acid, and octanoic acid. In addition, fatty glycerides and amino acids with antimicrobial activity were included. ConclusionsOur findings indicate that the main antimicrobial metabolites of L. plantarum LPZN19 include organic acids, fatty acids, fatty glycerides and some amino acids with antimicrobial activity, which not only clarifies the main antimicrobial metabolites of L. plantarum LPZN19 but also provides an effective method for rapid screening of antimicrobial substances.How to cite: Wang Y, Xu Y. Analysis and identification of the main antimicrobial metabolites of Lactobacillus plantarum LPZN19. Electron J Biotechnol 2024;71. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ejbt.2024.05.005.

Update on RYR1-related myopathies.

RYR1-related myopathy (RYR1-RM) is a group of myopathies caused by mutations in the RYR1 gene, which encodes the ryanodine receptor 1 (RYR1). This review discusses recent advances in the clinical features, pathology, pathogenesis, and therapeutics of RYR1-RM. Although treatments such as salbutamol, pyridostigmine, and N-acetylcysteine have been explored as potential therapies for RYR1-RM, none have been conclusively proven to be effective. However, recent clinical trials of Rycal ARM210 in patients with RYR1-RM have shown promising results, including reduced fatigue and improved proximal muscle strength.Recent advances in three-dimensional structural analysis of RYR1 channels, facilitated by cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM), have elucidated the distinct molecular mechanisms underlying RYR1 functionality. Additionally, high-throughput screening methods, including FRET-based and endoplasmic reticulum Ca 2+ -based assays, have been successful in identifying potential candidates for the treatment of RYR1-RM. Recent advances in clinical and pathological understanding have provided new insights into RYR1-RM. Novel pathomechanisms elucidated by cryo-EM and rapid screening methods have led to the identification of several promising drug candidates. We are hopeful about the potential of Rycal, other new drugs, and gene therapy, offering a promising outlook for the future.

Rapid Identification of the Spruce Bark Beetle <i>Ips typographus</i> (Linnaeus) Basing on a New Amplification and Analysis Platform

Insects, one of the major disturbance agents, are regarded as a big challenge to forests. Bark beetles (Coleoptera: Curculionidae: Scolytinae) are among the most destructive pests around the world. The European spruce bark beetle <i>I. typographus </i>(Linnaeus) is considered the most dangerous species to mature spruce forests throughout Eurasia. In order to improve efficiency, accuracy, and operability of identification, a rapid, simple, highly sensitive and specific screening method is in urgent need. In this study, a rapid classification approach for <i>I. typographus</i> was established based on the enzyme-mediated duplex exponential amplification (EmDEA) amplification and analysis platform. The method development process consists of target gene selection, primer design, primer screening, and method validation. Parameter analysis demonstrated that this new method has a detection limit of 1.96×103 copies/μL, which is comparable to conventional molecular tools such as PCR. Stable repeatability and high specificity were confirmed by testing 5 samples of <i>I. typographus</i> and 4 related beetles. Besides, this screening protocol was easy to use, and could be completed in 30 min. With the advantage of isothermal amplification, this method could be further applied in non-laboratory scenarios such as port rapid screening and wild survey. This rapid screening method for <i>I. typographus</i> is believed to assist precise prediction and efficient prevention of exotic insect species.

A deep learning drug screening framework for integrating local-global characteristics: A novel attempt for limited data

At the beginning of the "Disease X" outbreak, drug discovery and development are often challenged by insufficient and unbalanced data. To address this problem and maximize the information value of limited data, we propose a drug screening model, LGCNN, based on convolutional neural network (CNN), which enables rapid drug screening by integrating features of drug molecular structures and drug-target interactions at both local and global (LG) levels. Experimental results show that LGCNN exhibits better performance compared to other state-of-the-art classification methods under limited data. In addition, LGCNN was applied to anti-SARS-CoV-2 drug screening to realize therapeutic drug mining against COVID-19. LGCNN transcends the limitations of traditional models for predicting interactions between single drug targets and shows new advantages in predicting multi-target drug-target interactions. Notably, the cross-coronavirus generalizability of the model is also implied by the analysis of targets, drugs, and mechanisms in the prediction results. In conclusion, LGCNN provides new ideas and methods for rapid drug screening in emergency situations where data are scarce.

Detection of Urinary Analytes due to Schistosoma haematobium Infection among School Children for Possible Application in Screening for Urinary Schistosomiasis

Study’s Novelty/Excerpt This study introduces an approach for the rapid screening and diagnosis of urinary schistosomiasis using urinalysis in remote communities, where advanced diagnostic techniques are often unavailable. By analyzing 600 school children across six Local Government Areas in Kaduna State, Nigeria, the research highlights significant associations between urinary schistosomiasis and specific urinalysis indicators, such as leukocytes, proteinuria, and micro-hematuria. This method not only demonstrates the feasibility of immediate treatment initiation but also underscores the potential for preventing the chronicity and further community spread of the disease, addressing a critical gap in current public health strategies for rural settings. Full Abstract Urinary schistosomiasis is a disease that has persisted for a long time among children in Nigeria and other African countries. The persistence of schistosomiasis in people living in rural communities is attributed to the abundance of unsafe water bodies where both children and adults engage in activities such as irrigation, bathing, fishing, washing, or fetching water for domestic use. The lack of adequate community-based screening and treatment of infected cases has contributed to the continuous spread of schistosomiasis from endemic communities to new areas. Urinalysis can serve as a rapid method for screening for urinary schistosomiasis among populations in remote locations, enabling immediate treatment and the prevention of its transmission. In this study, 600 school children who gave their consent were enrolled across six Local Government Areas in Kaduna State, Nigeria. A fresh 10mL urine sample was collected from each subject, and eleven analytes were immediately determined upon submission using urine reagent test strips (SG11100-Uric 11V, Guilin Zhonghui Technology Co., Ltd, China). The urine samples underwent centrifugation at 3000 revolutions per minute for 5 minutes, and the sediment from each sample was examined microscopically for Schistosoma haematobium eggs. The data were analyzed statistically at a 95% confidence interval using IBM SPSS Version 23. The overall prevalence of urinary schistosomiasis among the children in the six LGAs of Kaduna State was 6.8%, with heavy infections at 2.2% and light infections at 4.7%. Significant associations were found between urinary schistosomiasis and the presence of leukocytes (18.5%, χ2=47.596, df=1, P=0.000, OR=8.822), proteinuria (23.1%, χ2=17.287, df=1, P=0.000, OR=4.959), and micro-hematuria (49.3%, χ2=213.184, df=1, P=0.000, OR=63.695). This study demonstrates that urinalysis can be effectively utilized for screening urinary schistosomiasis in remote communities where advanced techniques like microscopy may not be available, facilitating prompt treatment initiation. Therefore, early detection and treatment are crucial in preventing the chronicity and community spread of the disease.

VmmScore: An umami peptide prediction and receptor matching program based on a deep learning approach

Peptides, with recognized physiological and medical implications, such as the ability to lower blood pressure and lipid levels, are central to our research on umami taste perception. This study introduces a computational strategy to tackle the challenge of identifying optimal umami receptors for these peptides. Our VmmScore algorithm includes two integral components: Mlp4Umami, a predictive module that evaluates the umami taste potential of peptides, and mm-Score, which enhances the receptor matching process through a machine learning-optimized molecular docking and scoring system. This system encompasses the optimization of docking structures, clustering of umami peptides, and a comparative analysis of docking energies across peptide clusters, streamlining the receptor identification process. Employing machine learning, our method offers a strategic approach to the intricate task of umami receptor determination. We undertook virtual screening of peptides derived from Lateolabrax japonicus, experimentally verifying the umami taste of three identified peptides and determining their corresponding receptors. This work not only advances our understanding of the mechanisms behind umami taste perception but also provides a rapid and cost-effective method for peptide screening. The source code is publicly accessible at https://github.com/heyigacu/mlp4umami/, encouraging further scientific exploration and collaborative efforts within the research community.

ULTRASONOGRAPHY IN THE INVESTIGATION OF TEMPOROMANDIBULAR JOINTS: PROBLEMS AND PROSPECTS

Ultrasonography (USG) can be considered as a useful method for rapid screening of patients with suspected temporomandibular disorders (TMDs). It is necessary to select USG parameters of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and the masticatory muscles (MM) with unambiguous interpretation and to standardize them (determine the norm and reference points of measurement). Purpose of the study. To review the ultrasonographic parameters of the TMJ and masticatory muscles MM with unambiguous interpretation. Materials and methods. An analysis of the literature was carried out by processing scientific and metric bases, from which 26 articles were selected. Results. During the USG examination of the TMJ and MM, various parameters are determined, which can be conditionally divided into parameters with an unambiguous interpretation, and those that cause controversy. Based on the analysis of the scientific and practical literature, as well as our own experience, USG parameters with an unambiguous interpretation were selected, namely, the width of the joint space, the amplitude of condylar translation, the thickness of the MM at rest and during compression, the percentage of thickening of MM, the position of the articular disc when closed and open mouth, movement of the condyle during opening and closing the mouth, clarity and uniformity of the width of the subchondral-cartilaginous complex of the condyle. Conclusions. The literature review indicates an urgent need to standardize the USG protocol for TMJ and masticatory muscle examination by unifying clinically important USG parameters, determining their norm and gender characteristics.

Prevalence and Rapid Screen Method of Diagnostic Criteria for Psychosomatic Research Syndromes in Human Papillomavirus-Infected Patients

Introduction: The early and rapid identification of psychosomatic symptoms is crucial to prevent harmful outcomes in patients with human papillomavirus (HPV) infection in busy comprehensive clinics. This study aimed to explore the prevalence and rapid screening method of the Diagnostic Criteria for Psychosomatic Research-revised (DCPR) syndromes in patients with HPV infection. Methods: A total of 504 participants underwent a clinical assessment that included DCPR, Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, fifth edition (DSM-5), the Social Support Rating Scale (SSRS), the Simplified Coping Style Questionnaire (SCSQ), fear of disease, sociodemographic and clinical characteristics. The prevalence of DCPR syndromes and DSM-5 diagnoses were compared between the HPV-positive and negative patients using χ2 tests. We explored the rapid screen indicator through multiple logistic regression analyses of the participants’ psychosocial factors, sociodemographic and clinical characteristics. Results: The incidence of DCPR syndromes in HPV-positive patients (56.6%) was significantly greater than that in HPV-negative patients (17.3%) and DSM-5 diagnoses (8.5%) in the HPV-positive group. Health anxiety, irritable mood, type A behavior, and demoralization were the most common psychosomatic syndromes in HPV-positive patients. As the degree of fear increased from 0 to 5 to 10, the risk of DCPR increased from 1.27 (95% CI: 0.21–7.63) to 3.24 (score range: 1–5, 95% CI: 1.01–10.39) to 9.91 (score range: 6–10, 95% CI: 3.21–30.62) in the HPV-positive group. Conclusion: The degree of fear, as an independent risk factor, could be used to quickly screen outpatients with a high risk of DCPR syndrome among women with HPV infection.

Fast, Easy, and Comprehensive Techniques for Microscopic Observations of Fungal and Oomycete Organisms Inside the Roots of Herbaceous and Woody Plants.

The roots of herbaceous and woody plants growing in soil are complex structures that are affected by both natural and artificial fungal colonization to various extents. To obtain comprehensive information about the overall distribution of fungi or oomycetes inside a plant root system, rapid, effective, and reliable screening methods are required. To observe both fine roots, i.e., a common site for penetration of fungi and oomycetes, and mature roots, different techniques are required to overcome visual barriers, such as root browning or tissue thickening. In our protocol, we propose using fast, cost-effective, and non-harmful methods to localize fungal or oomycete structures inside plant roots. Root staining with a fluorescent dye provides a quick initial indication of the presence of fungal structures on the root surfaces. The protocol is followed by clearing and staining steps, resulting in a deeper insight into the root tissue positioning, abundance, and characteristic morphological/reproductive features of fungal or oomycete organisms. If required, the stained samples can be prepared by using freeze-drying for further observations, including advanced microscopic techniques. Key features • The protocol enhances tissue-clearing techniques employing KOH or NaOH and is applicable to a broad range of roots from different plant species. • Hydroxides are mixed with hydrogen peroxide to obtain an efficient bleaching solution, which effectively clears roots without causing significant tissue damage. • The protocol could also be used for staining of fungi or oomycetes localized both on the root surface or inside the root tissues. • Simple combination of non-fluorescent methyl blue and fluorescent solophenyl flavine dyes allows the observation of fungal organisms in both brightfield and fluorescence microscopy.

Early fetal sex determination using a fluorescent DNA nanosensing platform capable of simultaneous detection of SRY and DYS14 sequences in cell-free fetal DNA

Early fetal sex determination is of crucial importance in the management of prenatal diagnosis of X-linked genetic abnormalities and congenital adrenal hyperplasia. The development of an efficient and simple method for high-sensitivity, affordable, and rapid screening of cell-free fetal DNA (cffDNA) is crucial for fetal sex determination in early pregnancy. In this study, single- and dual-fluorophore DNA biosensors based on multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) were fabricated for the individual and simultaneous detection of the SRY gene and DYS14 marker in cffDNA obtained from maternal plasma samples. This nanosensing platform is based on the immobilization of single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) probes, labeled with ROX or FAM fluorophores, on MWCNT, resulting in the quenching of fluorescence emission in the absence of the targets. Upon the addition of the complementary target DNA (ctDNA) to the hybridization reaction, the fluorescence emission of fluorophore-labeled probes was significantly recovered to 79.5 % for ROX-labeled probes (i.e. SRY-specific probes), 81.5 % for FAM-labeled probes (i.e. DYS14-specific probes), and 65.9 % for dual-fluorophore biosensor compared to the quenching mode. The limit of detection (LOD) for ROX, and FAM was determined to be 4.5 nM, and 7.6 nM, respectively. For dual-color probes, LOD was found to be 5.4 (ROX) and 9.2 nM (FAM). Finally, the clinical applicability of the proposed method was confirmed through the detection of both biomarkers in maternal plasma samples, suggesting that the proposed nanosensing platform may be useful for the early detection of fetal sex using cffDNA.

Flow cytometer for a dilution-free measurement approach with sample recollection.

Blood testing using flow cytometry is a common and rapid method for the initial screening and diagnosis of patients. Measurements are often combined with other scientific techniques, and analyzed samples are commonly diluted and discarded afterward. When the sample is recollected instead, sample dilution is a challenge when the sample is intended or needed for additional measurements. Therefore, it is advantageous to recollect the undiluted sample. In order to enable measurements of the same undiluted sample aliquot, we designed and constructed a purpose-built flow cytometer. Our instrument employs syringes, acoustic focusing, and an open fluidics system to recollect and reuse the unadulterated sample. The cytometer is compact, which reduces sample consumption. It acquires forward, sideward, and fluorescence signals, offering opportunities for diverse measurement approaches. In particular, our cytometer has been designed to be ready for additional downstream analysis of cells, e.g., applying mass spectrometry, magnetic resonance spectroscopy, or other analytical tools. This study presents results on instrument performance, a comparison with a cytometer that uses standard hydrodynamic focusing, and a proof of concept for multiple measurements.

A compact breath breathalyzer for identifying the non-alcoholic fatty liver disease biomarker

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a prevalent chronic liver disease worldwide. Currently, its diagnosis relies primarily on imaging and histological examinations, which are invasive and prone to misdiagnosis in the early stage. To address these limitations, detection and analysis of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in human breath can be a rapid and non-invasive screening method for NAFLD. In this study, a compact breath breathalyzer was developed, utilizing a miniaturized gas chromatography chip with the STM32 microcontroller as the main control chip to manage airflow, temperature, and receive terminal signals from the photoionization detector. In the experiment, a gas mixture comprising five VOCs (pentane, acetone, toluene, octane, and decane) was selected as the simulated typical disease biomarkers in human breath to investigate the breathalyzer's performance and optimize testing conditions for multi-polar and wide-boiling-range breath samples. Results show that the breathalyzer can detect low-boiling components (< 100°C) such as the isoprene and acetone, with a detection limit less than 50 ppb which are two commonly biomarkers of NAFLD. Furthermore, breath samples were collected from 35 non-diseased individuals, and NAFLD early-stage patient samples were simulated by increasing the isoprene concentration by 10 ppb. Convolutional neural network (CNN) were used to identify the VOC signatures in gas chromatograms with predictive accuracy of 85% for the classification model. Therefore, the compact breath breathalyzer has potential application in the rapid and early screening of NAFLD.

The value of abPG-SGA in the nutritional risk screening of patients with malignant tumors.

Nutritional risk screening 2002 (NRS2002) is a commonly used tool for screening the risk of malnutrition in hospitalized patients, while patient-generated subjective global assessment (PG-SGA) is a nutritional assessment tool for malignant tumor patients. However, there are still gaps in the rapid nutritional risk screening methods for cancer patients. We aimed to evaluate the value of abridged scored patient-generated subjective global assessment (abPG-SGA) for nutritional risk screening and prognosis in cancer patients. The NRS 2002 and abPG-SGA scores of 100 malignant tumor patients hospitalized in our department in December 2020 were collected. Take NRS2002 ≥ 3 as the positive standard (risk of malnutrition). Data were analyzed using Kappa test, ROC curves, cut-off values and Kaplan-Meier. In the screening of 100 patients, 25.0% of patients were at risk of malnutrition (NRS2002), abPG-SGA yielded a sensitivity and specificity of 92.0% and 72.0%, respectively (area under curve [AUC] = 0.884, cut-off value ≥ 4.5); In the screening of patients with digestive system malignancies, 22.6% of patients were at risk of malnutrition (NRS2002), and the sensitivity and specificity of abPG-SGA were 91.67% and 87.80%, respectively (AUC = 0.945, cut-off value ≥ 5.5). The results of survival analysis showed that the overall survival (OS) of patients with abPG-SGA ≥ 5 and < 5, NRS2002 ≥ 3 and abPG-SGA < 5, NRS2002 < 3 and abPG-SGA ≥ 5 were significantly different (P < .0001), the OS of patients with NRS2002 ≥ 3 and abPG-SGA ≥ 5, NRS2002 < 3 and abPG-SGA < 5 were not significantly different (P > .05). Like NRS2002, abPG-SGA can also be used for malnutrition screening and prognosis judgment in cancer patients. It can quickly screen out cancer patients who may be at risk of malnutrition and facilitate the development of nutritional assessments.

Pomegranate molasses authentication using hyperspectral imaging system coupled with automatic clustering algorithm.

Pomegranate molasses is made from concentrated pomegranate juice with nothing added. Due to its nutritional value, limitation in production, and high production cost, this product may be adulterated by date syrup. This study was done to differentiate various types of pomegranate molasses and investigate the possibility of nonauthenticity detection in pomegranate molasses samples using the hyperspectral imaging (HSI) technique compared with physicochemical measurement analysis. The physicochemical properties (brix index, sucrose, acidity, ash content, pH, and formalin index) of 24 samples were measured as the reference analysis method, and it was found that the formalin index was a good factor for pomegranate molasses authenticity evaluation. Additionally, an HSI system (400-1000nm) was used as a nondestructive and rapid screening method to capture spectral data of the samples. The evolutionary wavelength selection algorithm was applied to select effective wavelengths in sample clustering based on the obtained Davies-Bouldin index. Next, principal component analysis was used to visually interpret the spectral data of the sample when using the selected wavelengths and the whole spectra of the samples. Finally, an automatic clustering algorithm by the artificial bee colony as an unsupervised method was developed for the clustering of the authentic and nonauthentic samples. The method did not need descriptively labeled samples and obtained agreed satisfactorily with the degree of nonauthenticity in the samples. This study showed that the developed HSI technique coupled with an automatic clustering algorithm could detect date syrup nonauthenticity in pomegranate samples from the level of 5% adulteration.

Rapid and simultaneous analysis of monoiodoacetic acid and inorganic iodine in drinking water by capillary electrophoresis-inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry

Monoiodoacetic acid (MIAA) is a disinfection by-product formed during water disinfection through the oxidation of iodide, followed by a reaction with natural organic matter. It exhibits high toxicity and strong mutagenicity and is potentially carcinogenic to humans. Therefore, the simultaneous detection of MIAA and inorganic iodine can enable the safety assessment of drinking water and expand the study of the dynamic transformation process between the two forms. Currently, there is a lack of efficient and rapid universal screening methods for MIAA and inorganic iodine. In this work, a simple and efficient method was developed to combine capillary electrophoresis with inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry using a spray-efficient nebulizer interface for the speciation analysis of I− , IO3− , and MIAA. The method is based on qualitative analysis of retention time and quantitative determination using peak area. The detection limits of the three iodine forms were 0.16 μg L−1, 0.40 μg L−1, and 1.22 μg L−1, respectively. By coupling two instruments, the method combines the advantages of rapidity and accuracy with high injection efficiency. It is also more environmentally friendly as it does not require complex pre-treatment and avoids the use of toxic organic compounds. The accuracy of this method has been validated through the incorporation of authentic samples, paving the way for its deployment in the risk assessment of substantial volumes of drinking water and the expansion of the novel approach for further investigation into the genesis and transformation of MIAA.