Search Results (567)

Gas chromatography with mass spectrometry (GC-MS) is a common analytical technique used for identifying and quantifying drugs of abuse, as well as their metabolites, extracted from biological samples. Depending on the properties of the analyzed compounds, particularly in the case of metabolites, derivatization is often necessary. In this article, we will address the definition, properties, sample preparation, and GC-MS analysis of the most common drugs of abuse in their native (seized) form and their metabolites in biological samples (urine, blood, hair, and tissue). Drugs that will be described are: amphetamines and their derivatives, cannabinoids, cocaine, opioids, lysergide (LSD), benzodiazepines, gamma-hydroxybutyric acid (GHB), phencyclidine (PCP), mescaline, psilocin, and psilocybin. The literature review showed that the analysis of the drugs of abuse requires a simple extraction procedure and analysis with or without derivatization. However, the analysis of the metabolites requires removing the interferences from the matrix (proteins, other compounds, water, and other species that may interfere with the analysis or contaminate the GC-MS). This review article will provide insights into the available procedures for sample preparation and analytical methods, helping authors gain the necessary information and select the desired procedure for analysis. Full article

This article describes a new software architecture for the non-invasive detection of canine leishmaniasis disease. The proposed platform combines gas-sensing technologies, artificial intelligence (AI), and modular cloud-based software components to identify disease-specific volatile organic compounds (VOCs) found in dog breath and hair samples. The system, which has a multi-tier architecture that includes data collection, pre-processing, machine learning-based analysis, diagnosis-request processing, and user interfaces for veterinarians, faculty researchers, and dog owners, has been integrated into a Li-ion Power website plug-in. The primary goal of implementing the proposed platform is to detect parasites at any point they are infectious to a host. This includes detecting parasites at all stages of their life cycle, where they can infect a new host. In addition, this is crucial for accurate diagnosis, effective treatment, and preventing further transmission. Full article

Background/Objectives: Variations in hair length are observed in many dog breeds, as determined by the canine FGF5 gene. Long-haired Akitas, which are disqualified under breeding standards of Akitas, are sometimes born to short-haired parents and may have been subjected to treatments compromising animal welfare. Here, we aimed to identify an FGF5 variant associated with hair coat variations in Akitas in Japan, and to assess how welfare of this breed can be improved by carefully planned breeding. Methods: DNA samples were obtained from 60 Akitas in 2021 (modern Akitas) and 73 Akitas in the 1970s and the 1980s (classic Akitas). Sanger sequencing was performed on all exons and exon–intron junctions of the FGF5 gene to determine the causative variant of long hair in Akitas. A real-time PCR assay was developed to genotype FGF5:c.578C>T in modern and classic Akitas. Using 54 dogs from modern Akitas, scores (1 to 10) of hair length were compared among the three genotypes (C/C, C/T, and T/T). Results: Sanger sequencing revealed that the canine FGF5:c.578C>T variant was associated with long hair in Akitas in Japan. Genotyping revealed that the frequency of the mutant T allele was 0.350 in modern Akitas, which was significantly higher (p < 0.001) than in classic Akitas (0.212). The three genotypes were not in Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium (HWE) in modern Akitas but were in HWE in classic Akitas. There were significant differences in hair length scores among the three genotypes (p < 0.001) and between the C/C and C/T genotypes (p < 0.005). There was no significant difference in the scores between male and female dogs. Conclusions: This study revealed that a causative variant that determines the long hair trait of Akitas in Japan was the FGF5:c.578C>T variant, which was inherited in an incompletely dominant manner. Akita dog breeders were more likely to select heterozygous C/T dogs based on the appearance of the hair coat for breeding dogs with an ideal fluffy hair coat. This might result in a high mutant T allele frequency and the production of undesired long-haired Akitas with T/T, which may create welfare problems. Genetic testing for this variant is necessary to improve welfare and conserve the Akita breed. Full article

Mineral imbalances in livestock can critically impair growth, immunity, and productivity. Yaks inhabiting the Qinghai–Tibetan Plateau face unique environmental challenges, including high-altitude-induced nutrient variability. This study investigated the status of mineral elements and their correlations with altitude in healthy yak calves across five regions in Ganzi Prefecture, located at elevations ranging from 3100 to 4100 m. Hair and serum samples from 35 calves were analyzed for 11 essential elements (Na, K, Ca, Mg, S, Cu, Fe, Mn, Zn, Co, and Se). The results revealed widespread deficiencies. Key deficiencies were identified: hair Na and Co were significantly below references value (p < 0.05), and Se was consistently deficient across all regions, with deficiency rates ranging from 35.73% to 56.57%. Serum Mg and Cu were generally deficient (Mg deficiency > 26% above 3800 m). S, Mn (low detection), and Co were also suboptimal. Serum selenium deficiency was notably severe in lower-altitude areas (≤59.07%). Significant correlations with altitude were observed: hair sodium levels decreased with increasing altitude (r = −0.72), while hair manganese (r = 0.88) and cobalt (r = 0.65) levels increased. Serum magnesium deficiency became more pronounced at higher elevations (r = 0.58), whereas selenium deficiency in serum was more severe at lower altitudes (r = −0.61). These findings indicate prevalent multi-element deficiencies in yak calves that are closely linked to altitude and are potentially influenced by soil mineral composition and feeding practices, as suggested by previous studies. The study underscores the urgent need for region-specific nutritional standards and altitude-adapted mineral supplementation strategies to support optimal yak health and development. Full article

Research results suggest the potential of topical adenosine as a hair-promoting agent. The aim of this study was to examine the available clinical evidence of the efficacy of topical adenosine products in hair loss. This systematic review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA and PICO guidelines and included articles indexed in PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. The strength of evidence was assessed according to the GRADE system. Wherever feasible, data were extracted for a meta-analysis. Among 8625 articles returned by the query, 7 clinical trials were identified of topical adenosine (lotion, shampoo) in hair loss. They unanimously reported on a reduction in hair loss and increase in hair density (strength of evidence very low to moderate). A meta-analysis of three eligible trials showed a tendency to increased hair density (OR = 1.03, 95% CI: 0.89–1.20, p = 0.68), an increase in thick hair (OR = 1.4, 95% CI: 0.82–2.38, p = 0.21) and a decrease in thin hairs (OR = 0.93, 95% CI: 0.61–1.43, p = 0.75) after 6 months of alopecia treatment with a 0.75% adenosine lotion. The results from clinical trials published until now suggest that topical adenosine increases hair thickness, reduces excessive hair loss, stimulates hair regrowth, and increases hair density. The overall strength of evidence remains low due to flawed design and small sample sizes in most trials. Nevertheless, topical adenosine products seem worth trying, especially in the case of contraindications or adverse effects to approved medicinal products for hair loss. Further, better designed trials of adenosine in hair loss are warranted. Full article

Background and purpose: Indigenous people in the Brazilian Amazon are exposed to mercury by eating methylmercury-contaminated fish. The lack of information on the health effects of prolonged exposure to mercury hinders the implementation of mitigation programs offered by the Brazilian government. This article aims to evaluate the studies that have investigated mercury exposure in indigenous people living in the Brazilian Amazon. Methods: A scoping review of the literature was conducted from studies published between 1995 and 2024 in Portuguese, English, and Spanish that evaluated mercury (Hg) concentrations in hair samples in indigenous people from the Brazilian Amazon. Results: Using total mercury (TotalHg) values in hair samples, we analyzed exposure levels, prevalence, and toxic effects. We found 15 epidemiological studies with a cross-sectional design and sample sizes ranging from 31 to 910 participants. Four studies involved children and mothers, four of which were associated with clinical outcomes and three of which analyzed genetic polymorphism. Most of the communities evaluated had a high prevalence of mercury exposure, showing levels ranging from 0.8 to 83.89 µg/g, and the highest average TotalHg concentration was found among the Kayabi. Mercury was associated with hypertension, cognitive disorders, worse mental health indicators and central and peripheral neurological disorders. Conclusions: It is concluded that indigenous people in the Brazilian Amazon experience exposure levels that are causing damage to their health, and control measures must be adopted to prevent the situation from worsening. Full article

Hair, as a non-invasive biospecimen, retains metabolic deposits from sebaceous glands and capillaries, reflecting substances from the peripheral circulation, and provides valuable biochemical information linked to phenotypes, yet its application in animal disease research remains limited. This work applied ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS) to compare the hair metabolomic characteristics of healthy forest musk deer (FMD, Moschus berezovskii) and those diagnosed with hemorrhagic pneumonia (HP), phytobezoar disease (PD), and abscess disease (AD). A total of 2119 metabolites were identified in the FMD hair samples, comprising 1084 metabolites in positive ion mode and 1035 metabolites in negative ion mode. Differential compounds analysis was conducted utilizing the orthogonal partial least squares–discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA) model. In comparison to the healthy control group, the HP group displayed 85 upregulated and 92 downregulated metabolites, the PD group presented 124 upregulated and 106 downregulated metabolites, and the AD group exhibited 63 upregulated and 62 downregulated metabolites. Functional annotation using the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) indicated that the differential metabolites exhibited significant enrichment in pathways associated with cancer, parasitism, energy metabolism, and stress. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis revealed that both the individual and combined panels of differential metabolites exhibited area under the curve (AUC) values exceeding 0.7, demonstrating good sample discrimination capability. This research indicates that hair metabolomics can yield diverse biochemical insights and facilitate the development of non-invasive early diagnostic techniques for diseases in captive FMD. Full article

This study focuses on the stabilization of a natural hair dye derived from Lawsonia inermis L. (henna) and Indigofera suffruticosa (indigo). Although various formulations already exist, they are designed for immediate use and cannot be stored. Lawsonia, a primary component of the dye, tends to degrade after release. To ensure its stability, freeze-drying was implemented as a protective measure. Colorimetric analysis confirmed the dye’s ability to maintain an intense, uniform coloration even after multiple washing cycles. Stability tests demonstrate that freeze-drying effectively enhances the dye’s stability and capacity to retain its physical properties and color under various environmental conditions, demonstrating its potential for long-term use. The dye’s pH (5.05) aligns with the natural pH of hair, promoting cuticle sealing and improving hair health. Cytotoxicity tests confirmed the dye’s safety, showing no harmful effects. Gray hair exhibited a total color difference (ΔE) of 64.06 after the initial application, using natural gray hair as a reference. By the third application, ΔE increased to 69.86 and gradually decreased to 68.20 after 15 washing cycles, highlighting its long-term durability. Gray hair exposed to 720 h of UV radiation showed a ΔE of 17.34, whereas dyed gray hair exhibited a ΔE of 2.96 compared to non-UV-exposed samples. This indicates superior resistance to color degradation in dyed hair. Also, SEM imaging revealed the dye’s restorative effects, progressively improving hair cuticle structure with each application. Full article

The inhibition of steroid 5-alpha reductase (S5AR), a key mechanism for managing dihydrotestosterone-dependent conditions, has been demonstrated in teak (Tectona grandis L.f.) leaf extracts. Our recent clinical study confirmed the effectiveness of a hair growth formulation containing teak leaf extract in males with androgenic alopecia. However, significant variability in S5AR inhibitory activity among teak leaf samples from different regions underscores the need for quality control of raw materials. This study applied a metabolomics approach to investigate the influence of leaf age, harvesting period, and geographic origin on chemical composition and S5AR inhibitory activity, as well as to identify active S5AR inhibitors. Geographic origin emerged as the primary determinant of variations in chemical profiles and S5AR inhibitory activity. Using orthogonal partial least squares analysis, six diterpenoid S5AR inhibitors were identified, including four compounds reported for the first time as S5AR inhibitors: rhinocerotinoic acid, 7-oxo-8-labden-15-oic acid, 8-hydroxy-labd-13-en-15-oic acid, and a novel diterpene, 7-hydroxy-labd-8,13-dien-15-oic acid. These findings highlight the potential of metabolomics as a powerful tool for discovering bioactive compounds and optimizing raw material selection. By prioritizing proven geographic sources, consistent bioactivity can be achieved, supporting the therapeutic potential of teak leaves in managing S5AR-related conditions. Full article

The effects of 1-N-naphthylphthalamic acid (NPA) applied as an aqueous solution on uncooled grape hyacinth (Muscari armeniacum) bulbs were investigated, focusing on histological measurements and the determination of various metabolites in developing roots. M. armeniacum bulbs were kept for a defined number of days in distilled water (control) or aqueous NPA solutions, and then 2 cm sections of root tips were taken for histological measurements. Longitudinal and cross sections were taken in these root pieces, followed by measurements of their basic parts and microscopic images. Determinations of polar compounds by GC/MS and phenolic metabolites by HPLC/MS/MS were carried out in freeze-dried root samples. NPA inhibited the growth of the roots and caused swelling of their elongation parts, as well as changes in the dimensions of other parts of the roots and disruption of the gravitropic direction of their growth. However, NPA did not affect leaf growth and the amino acid, organic acid, and major carbohydrate content in the roots, but increased the level of unknown saccharides, probably oligofructans. The decrease in the contents of many phenolic compounds observed in our study under the influence of NPA may indicate that this could be one of the symptoms/causes of root growth disorders. In turn, the reduction in polyphenol levels may have been related to an increase in the number and length of root hairs. Full article

Background: Over the last 30 years, stress and anxiety in children have risen exponentially, especially as a result of school expectations. As no studies have examined the effect of increased outdoor recess on children’s chronic stress levels, this preliminary work focused on comparing hair cortisol concentration (HCC) scores of elementary children who received varied amounts of daily recess. Methods: HCC scores were collected from 4th grade elementary children (N = 130) from three intervention schools (45 min daily recess) (N = 64; M = 35; F = 29) and three control schools (30 min daily recess) (N = 66; M = 31; F = 35). Results: A two-way ANOVA, F(1, 123) = 5.47, p = 0.021, ω² = 0.034, showed that the intervention group reflected lower HCC levels (marginal M = 5.69, 95% CI [−1.92, 13.30]) than the control group (marginal M = 18.22, 95% CI [10.83, 25.61]). Post hoc analysis revealed an estimated marginal mean difference of −12.53 (SE = 5.36, p = 0.021). Sample t-tests compared HCC levels against the pre-COVID normative value of 7.5 pg/mg. The intervention group HCC mean (M = 5.85, SD = 6.26) was significantly lower than the normative value, t(61) = −2.08, p = 0.042. The control group’s mean HCC (M = 18.22, SD = 41.39) was significantly higher than the normative value, t(64) = 2.09, p = 0.041. Conclusions: Increasing daily recess may contribute to lower chronic stress levels among 4th grade children. With obesity and mental health disorders on the rise and American students’ academic performance on the decline, these pilot results cannot be overlooked or dismissed. Full article

Considering the controversial findings in the existing literature, this study aimed to deepen the knowledge about Hair Cortisol Concentration (HCC) in dogs by evaluating the influence on HCC of some factors related to dogs and guardians. Hair was collected from two groups: 128 Healthy Dogs (HD) and 25 dogs with a primary Chronic Gastroenteric Disease (CGD). Guardians of HD filled in a questionnaire, including dogs and respondents’ demographic information, and the perceived welfare and behaviour of the dog. HCC were measured with an enzyme immunoassay kit. A Wilcoxon rank-sum test was conducted to compare HCC in HD and CGD. For HD, a multiple linear regression and an ordinary logistic regression were performed with the dependent variable being HCC and the independent variables being dog and guardian characteristics and the questionnaire evaluations. HCC was statistically lower in CGD (medians: 4.79 versus 6.41 pg cortisol/mg hair; W = 961, p < 0.001). A positive association between HCC and guardian’s age was found (β: 0.012; t-value = 3.205; p < 0.01). Previous literature has shown that several factors can affect HCC in dogs; however, given the controversial results, a large sample and a multiparametric analysis, as in this study, can advance knowledge and highlight newly investigated factors. This study revealed the importance of also considering factors related to the guardian and the possibility that multiple factors interact and collectively influence HCC. Full article

Trace elements, which may have harmful health effects, are present in the environment at varying concentrations. In Albania, data on exposure risks are limited. This study aimed to assess and compare the concentrations of various trace elements (aluminum, arsenic, boron, calcium, cadmium, chromium, copper, iron, potassium, magnesium, manganese, nickel, lead, and zinc) in the hair of cattle and sheep raised in Central Albania (Tirana and Elbasan Counties). Hair samples were collected from 25 cattle and 25 sheep per county and analyzed using inductively coupled plasma–optical emission spectroscopy. Zinc concentrations were significantly higher in cattle than in sheep (p = 0.029), while no differences were observed between counties (p > 0.05), indicating similar environmental conditions. Copper (17.84, 95%CI: 13.63–16.34 and 15.84, 95%CI: 14.00–17.69 mg/kg in cattle, and 15.58, 95%CI: 13.61–17.56 and 14.14, 95%CI: 12.07–16.20 mg/kg in sheep, in Elbasan and Tirana County, respectively), arsenic (2.08, 95%CI: 1.45–1.21 and 1.51, 95%CI: 1.19–1.81 mg/kg in cattle, 1.73, 95%CI: 1.38–2.07 and 1.39, 95%CI: 1.02–1.75 mg/kg in sheep, in Elbasan and Tirana County, respectively), and cadmium (2.36, 95%CI: 1.63–2.07 and 2.00, 95%CI: 1.68–2.32 mg/kg in cattle, 2.00, 95%CI: 1.59–2.40 and 1.71, 95%CI: 1.39–2.02 mg/kg in sheep, in Elbasan and Tirana County, respectively) concentrations exceeded the values reported in the literature, likely due to contamination from local mining and metal processing activities. Further research is needed to determine the sources of contamination and assess potential risks to animal and human health. Full article

Background: Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a leading global cause of mortality. The role of calcium (Ca), a key metabolic and structural element, in atherosclerosis and inflammation remains unclear. Ca influences immune cell function and is a component of atherosclerotic plaques. Hair analysis reflects long-term mineral exposure and may serve as a non-invasive biomarker. Objectives: This pilot study aimed to investigate the association between hair Ca levels and acute coronary syndrome (ACS), and to evaluate correlations with the Systemic Inflammatory Index (SII), Systemic Inflammatory Response Index (SIRI), and selected CAD risk factors. Methods: Ca levels were measured in hair samples from patients undergoing coronary angiography for suspected myocardial infarction. Associations with ACS diagnosis, Syntax score, SII, SIRI, and CVD risk factors were analyzed. Results: Serum calcium levels were not significantly associated with the presence of acute coronary syndrome (ACS) (p = 0.392) or with its clinical subtypes, including ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), non-ST-elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI), and unstable angina (UA) (p = 0.225). Diagnosis of ACS was linked to higher SII (p = 0.028) but not SIRI (p = 0.779). Ca levels correlated negatively with Syntax score (R = −0.19, p = 0.035) and SII (R = −0.22, p = 0.021) and positively with HDL-C (R = 0.18, p = 0.046). Conclusions: Hair calcium content may reflect subclinical inflammation and CAD severity. Although no direct link to ACS was observed, the associations with SII, HDL-C, and Syntax score suggest a potential diagnostic role which should be further explored in larger, well-controlled studies. Full article

Toxic elements are considered a significant threat to public health in oil-producing countries. Western Kazakhstan is experiencing serious environmental problems due to the development of the oil and gas industry. This study aimed to assess the concentrations of toxic trace elements—aluminum (Al), arsenic (As), beryllium (Be), cadmium (Cd), mercury (Hg), and lead (Pb)—in the hair of children residing in Kazakhstan’s oil and gas-producing region, and to evaluate the relationship between the concentration of toxic elements and the remoteness of their residence from oil and gas fields. A cross-sectional analysis was conducted involving 1595 school-aged children. Element levels in hair samples were quantified using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). The association between trace element concentrations and residential distance from oil and gas fields was examined across three distance-based groups and further analyzed through multiple linear regression. The highest concentration of Al = 4.824 μg/g and Hg = 0.096 μg/g was found in the hair of children living close to oil and gas fields (0–16 km). A decrease in levels of Al (−0.072 (CI: −0.109; −0.036)) and Hg (−0.293 (CI: −0.343; −0.243)) is associated with increasing distance from oil and gas fields. As, Cd, and Pb had the lowest median concentrations in the hair of children living near oil and gas fields (0.030, 0.010, and 0.122 µg/g, respectively). There is a tendency for levels of As, Cd, and Pb to increase with distance from the fields (0.064 (CI: 0.039; 0.089), 0.093 (CI: 0.045; 0.141), and 0.244 (CI: 0.202; 0.287), respectively). Our findings indicate the need for biomonitoring of toxic elements to determine long-term temporal trends in the influence of toxic trace elements on the health of the child population of Western Kazakhstan. Full article