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Introduction: Non-traumatic back pain constitutes roughly 5% of the admissions to emergency departments. This study seeks to compare the efficacy of intravenously administered paracetamol, dexketoprofen, and ibuprofen in patients with non-traumatic acute low back pain. Methods: This study was designed as a randomized, double-blinded investigation and carried out at a tertiary hospital. 210 eligible patients without trauma who presented with low back pain were recruited for the study and randomized into paracetamol (n = 71), dexketoprofen (n = 70), and ibuprofen (n = 69) groups. The measurements at 0, 15, 30 and 60 min were noted down by using a 100 mm VAS, and the relevant comparisons were made. Results: The VAS scores at 0 and 60 min in the paracetamol, dexketoprofen, and ibuprofen groups decreased on average by 40 mm, 42 mm, and 43 mm, respectively. The baseline and final pain scores of each drug group differed significantly (p < 0.05), though the between-group analysis revealed no significant difference (p > 0.05). Conclusion: Given the obtained data, we did not note a significant difference between intravenous paracetamol, dexketoprofen and ibuprofen with respect to pain efficacy in non-traumatic acute low back pain. Based on the patients' clinical conditions and histories, we concluded that the choice of medication might not change the efficacy of the treatment and patient comfort. © 2022 Elsevier Inc.

Purpose: The topical application of scalp-care cosmetics, infused with functional ingredients, can offer an optimal cosmetic approach to prevent problems associated with aging. In terms of the development of anti-aging cosmetics, we studied the use of acetyl hexapeptide-8 (AH-8) for improving elasticity of the scalp.Methods: Ampoules containing 3% and 5% concentrations of AH-8 as an active ingredient were prepared and their safety and efficacy were evaluated. HaCaT cells were used to evaluate the safety of AH-8 ampoules by measurement of in vitro cytotoxicity. In in vivo experiments, we tested the AH-8 ampoules by cumulative irritation test (CIT) on healthy adults, 20–50 years of age. Relative expressions of superoxide dismutase 2 (SOD2), forkhead box O1 (FOXO1), actinin alpha 1 (ACTN1), collagen type XVII alpha 1 chain (COL17A1), and integrin subunit beta 4 (ITGB4) were assessed using quantitative real-time PCR (Q-PCR).Results: AH-8 ampoules showed significant cytotoxicity to HaCaT cells in a dose-dependent manner. CIT assessment in 30 adults revealed no skin reactions to both 3% and 5% AH-8 ampoules. After treatment of HaCaT cells with the AH-8 ampoules, mRNA levels of SOD2 and FOXO1, which are directly implicated as antioxidant factors, were increased. Of the factors that improve elasticity, ACTN1 mRNA levels had the greatest increase when treated with the 5% AH-8 ampoules (1.75 µg/mL). Also, the AH-8 ampoules increased mRNA levels of COL17A1, and ITGB4 in HaCaT cells.Conclusions: In this study, we proved that 3% and 5% AH-8 ampoules are safe for use as a scalp-care cosmetic. AH-8 ampoule had efficacy in anti-aging and improving elasticity of the scalp. This comprehensive test showed that AH-8 can be developed as a cosmetic for anti-aging and improvement of scalp elasticity.

One ampoule of propofol is often divided into several syringes or is sometimes combined with other drugs that may lead to incompatibility and instability. A systematic review of literature (PubMed, Science Direct, and Google Scholar) identified 37 pieces of research which suggest that the data on propofol stability are limited. Results of all of the identified studies indicated that the stability of propofol is less than 24 hours. Additionally, the evidence shows that glass packaging as well as storing in cold and dark conditions promote stability. What is more, propofol was proved to be incompatible with 23 of the 36 drugs tested. In conclusion, there is a relatively small body of literature that measures the physical stability of propofol. The findings of this review recommend keeping propofol in glass and storing it no longer than 24 hours. Compatibility data must be considered in co-administrations with propofol.One ampoule of propofol is often divided into several syringes or is sometimes combined with other drugs that may lead to incompatibility and instability. A systematic review of literature (PubMed, Science Direct, and Google Scholar) identified 37 pieces of research which suggest that the data on propofol stability are limited. Results of all of the identified studies indicated that the stability of propofol is less than 24 hours. Additionally, the evidence shows that glass packaging as well as storing in cold and dark conditions promote stability. What is more, propofol was proved to be incompatible with 23 of the 36 drugs tested. In conclusion, there is a relatively small body of literature that measures the physical stability of propofol. The findings of this review recommend keeping propofol in glass and storing it no longer than 24 hours. Compatibility data must be considered in co-administrations with propofol.

The boundaries of the glass formation areas of quasiternary systems A І 2 S–В IV S 2 –P 2 S 5 (А I – Cu, Ag; В IV – Ge, Sn) have been established by the method of X-ray phase analysis. The compound GеS 2 can exist in a glass state, so that germanium disulphide acts as a glass former in quasi-triple systems. The glass semiconductor alloys have been synthesized by the single-temperature method from the elementary substances of copper (99.99 wt.%), silver (99.99 wt.%), germanium (99.9999 wt.%), tin (99.999 wt.%), red phosphorus (99.998 wt.%) and sulfur (purity 99.997 wt.%). Maximum synthesis temperature was 1173 K, followed by quenching of the ampoules in a saturated solution of sodium chloride with crushed ice. Glasses with a high content of phosphorus are easily hydrolyzed under the influence of moisture of the air. Diffractograms have been recorded on a diffractometer DRON 4-13, CuK α -radiation, range of angles 2θ=10÷50°, stepped scan 0,05o, exposure time 2 seconds. Amorphousness of the obtained alloys has been controlled visually by the fracture characteristic of the glass and with the help of X-ray diffraction studies. «Gallo» has been observed on all diffractograms of glass samples, presence of which indicates the absence of long-range order in the alloy structure. There are continuous bands of glass formation on the sides GeS 2 –P 2 S 5 in the studied germanium-containing systems А I 2 S–GеS 2 –P 2 S 5 . The obtained glasses have been transparent, yellow-red color with the fracture characteristic of the glass. The main factor is the tendency of GeS 2 and P 2 S 5 to the glass formation. There has been found that all samples have polycrystalline nature in the system Cu 2 S–GеS 2 . Only GeS 2 and Ag 2 GeS 3 have been obtained in the vitreous state from the cross section Ag 2 S–GeS 2 .The maximum content of Cu 2 S and Ag 2 S, which are a part of the glass in systems Сu(Ag) 2 S–GеS 2 –P 2 S 5 , is 10 and 70 mol.% accordingly. The areas of glass formation have been much smaller compared to similar germanium-containing in the state-containing systems of the glassformation area, which is associated with the strengthening of the metal component of the chemical bond by changing GeS 2 to SnS 2 . We observe only two areas of glass formation in quasi-triple systems Сu(Ag) 2 S–SnS 2 –P 2 S 5 which are on the side SnS 2 –P 2 S 5 : one in the area 5–15 mol.% P 2 S 5 , including approximately 5 mol.% Cu 2 S та Ag 2 S, the other – 35–65 mol.% P 2 S 5 , the maximum content of Cu 2 S and Ag 2 S is 13 and 4 mol.%.

BACKGROUND Postpartum haemorrhage (PPH) kits containing uterotonics are used on obstetric units for the timely management of PPH. Visible discolouration of ergometrine and ergometrine-oxytocin injections was observed in PPH kits stored in medical refrigerators on the obstetric unit at our hospital. AIM To investigate the stability of ergometrine and ergometrine-oxytocin injections in PPH kits under simulated clinical storage conditions and to determine the potency of ampoules quarantined from PPH kits on our obstetric unit. MATERIAL AND METHODS Ergometrine and ergometrine-oxytocin injection ampoules were stored exposed to and protected from light at 4°C and room temperature (25°C) for up to three months, and assayed by high-performance liquid chromatography. Stability was based on the time for the ergometrine or oxytocin concentration to fall to 90% of the original concentration (t90 ). The potency of quarantined discoloured ampoules also was determined. RESULTS Ergometrine was stable at both temperatures for >6 months, when stored protected from light in simulated clinical conditions. When exposed to light, ergometrine was stable for approximately 4 days at 25°C and 10 days at 4°C. Discoloured ergometrine and ergometrine-oxytocin injection ampoules were found to be

Background Glass ampoules are widely used to contain injection medications because of their properties. However, the existing literature reports that glass particle contamination is found in opening glass ampoules. To date, nursing practice standards on this issue have not gained attention in terms of the manual breaking methods generally used for opening ampoules in a clinical setting that can minimize the risk of glass particle contamination and, therefore, increase patient safety. Objective This study aimed to compare manual breaking methods commonly used to open ampoules in clinical practice that affected the number of glass particles and to identify the factors influencing glass particle contamination. Methods We used a comparative research design to evaluate the manual breaking methods for opening medication ampoules among 56 registered nurses from diverse clinical areas in a university hospital. Each participant broke 12 ampoules in two sizes using six methods, each method combined with wrapping material and one breaking direction. We measured the number of glass particles in five sizes for each method and the factors influencing glass particle contamination. Results In total, 449 of 672 ampoules were contaminated with glass particles. Breaking the ampoule with a cotton ball (partial ampoule neck wrapping) from an outward direction resulted in the fewest glass particles, while breaking the ampoule with a gauze pad (entire ampoule neck wrapping) from an inward direction resulted in the most glass particles. Breaking method, ampoule size and clinical experience significantly influence glass particle contamination (P Conclusions The method (wrapping technique and breaking direction) that nurses use to break ampoules affects the number of glass particles. Therefore, improving the standard guidelines for preparing medication injections and training in breaking methods for opening ampoules is essential.

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of various parameters on the stability of butorphanol tartrate injection and to screen the optimal packaging material. The effect of the headspace oxygen levels, ampoule color, manufacturer, and size on the stability of butorphanol tartrate formulation were evaluated. The headspace oxygen levels controlled by nitrogen purging were found to be particularly effective in improving stability of the butorphanol formulation, especially below 2%. Although it is a photolabile drug, butorphanol tartrate was getting degraded at much higher extent in amber color ampoules in comparison to clear ampoules. The degradation by oxidation was found to be a free radical-mediated process catalyzed by the presence of iron ions leached from the amber ampoules. The ampoule manufacturers also had a significant effect on the stability of butorphanol. Two-milliliter ampoules provided a better stability of the butorphanol tartrate injection than 1mL ampoules as 2-mL ampoules had the lower headspace oxygen level at the same level of oxygen content. The oxidation mechanism of the butorphanol tartrate injection was investigated under various conditions, which include iron powder spiking, removal of excipients, exposure to oxygen/nitrogen, exposure to stainless steel and at different pH. Iron powder spiking, presence of citric acid, exposure to oxygen, exposure to stainless steel, and high pH accelerated the oxidative degradation. The effect of oxygen, iron ion and citric acid is in agreement with a metal-catalyzed oxidation mechanism called Udenfriend reaction. Based on the formulation test results, limiting headspace oxygen level, ampoule color, manufacturer, size, controlling iron ion contamination, and pH are recommended for formulation development. In conclusion, it can be suggested that this study can lead to a better understanding of the degradation mechanism of butorphanol tartrate; hence, it would contribute to the development of butorphanol tartrate injection with improved stability. Virous packaging materials have different effects on the stability of butorphanol tartrate injection, and the leached iron of packaging ampoules and stainless steel can trigger Udenfriend reaction with butorphanol tartrate and citric acid (CA), which lead to the oxydative degradation of butorphanol tartrate injection.

cited By 0; International audience; Background: Syringes of ephedrine are usually prepared ahead of time in order to reduce the time to injection. Commercial pre-filled syringes of ephedrine have been introduced to minimize the amount of waste. Our primary objective was to determine the economic impact of commercial syringes. We hypothesized that costs could be reduced compared to standard syringes. Methods: Using data extracted from our medical records system, we retrospectively measured the total dose of ephedrine received per patient in 2013 to estimate the number of administered standard syringes. The proportion of administered standard syringes was calculated as the total number of administered standard syringes divided by the number of delivered ampoules in 2013. Thereafter, we calculated the annual cost difference as the difference between the cost for commercial syringes and the cost for standard syringes. Endpoints were calculated overall and for each operating room. Results: At least one dose of ephedrine was given in 19,422 patients (44,943 administrations). The overall proportion of administered standard syringes was estimated to 52.8%. The threshold proportion of administered standard syringes for which commercial syringes would add no extra cost was 20.4%. In 30/32 operating rooms, the proportion of administered standard syringes was higher than 20.4%. The overall cost increase with commercial syringes was estimated to 51,567 €. Among operating rooms, incremental costs varied between −703 and 5086 €. Conclusion: Based on our findings, pre-filled ephedrine commercial syringes do not appear to reduce costs. © 2016 The Acta Anaesthesiologica Scandinavica Foundation. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd

Seven laboratories from 5 different countries participated in the calibration of the 7th British Working Standard (BWS) for blood coagulation factors II, IX and X. The candidate, 15/182, was assayed for Factors II and X potencies against the 4th International Standard (IS) for Factors II and X, Concentrate (11/126) and for Factor IX potency against the 5th IS for Factor IX, Concentrate (14/148). Intra-laboratory GCVs for all 3 factors were less than 10%, with the majority less than 5%. Inter-laboratory GCVs were 3.4%, 3.2% and 2.3% for FII, IX and X respectively. All participants agreed with the value assigned and preparation 15/182 was established by NIBSC in October 2017 as the 7th BWS for FII, IX, X Concentrate with potencies of 6.0 IU/ampoule, 6.7 IU/ampoule and 4.9 IU/ampoule for FII, IX and X respectively.

We consider the axisymmetric problem of explosive compaction of a mixture from aluminum, sulfur and carbon placed into a cylindrical steel ampoule. The inert substance (graphite) is added to the mixture to avoid the reaction between aluminum and sulfur. We found the essential influence of the thickness of the explosive layer on the final result of explosive compaction. Insufficient thickness of explosives, as well as the excessive thickness may be a reason for an incompletely compacted final product or lead to the formation of cracks or damage.

Trilinolein, with or without additives, was placed in glass ampoules and subjected to thermal treatment at 180 °C or 240 °C for 8 h. Thermal treatment of trilinolein at 180 °C and 240 °C produced twice the amount of trans nonconjugated linoleic acids (NLAs) compared to conjugated linoleic acids (CLAs), and nitrogen stream reduced the amount of both trans NLA and CLA products. The presence of additives resulted in the suppression or induction of trans NLAs and CLAs, depending on the type of additive, the concentration of the additive, and the heating temperature. Our analysis indicates that TBHQ is an effective additive for reducing trans NLA formation and inducing trans CLA formation in frying oil. Glutathione and l -cysteine at 0.1% may also be used as additives for frying oil. At suitable concentrations, Fe 3+ and Al 3+ ions derived from oils can reduce trans NLAs and induce trans CLAs during frying.

Objective To ascertain patients and physician views regarding hazard and compliance of oral liquid Vitamin D glass ampoule and tablets. Methods This cross sectional survey was conducted from November 1st 2016 to 15th December 2016. Patients who were prescribed Vitamin D glass ampoule from oral route in last three months were included along with physicians who routinely prescribe vitamin D after taking informed consent. The participants were asked about injuries related to the use of glass ampoule, ease of using this from, after taste preference of tablet or injectable form as well as demography. Data was analysed with SPSS version 24.0. Results Total 182 patients were included in the study with mean ± SD age of 39.4 ± 12.4 years. Majority of patients, 80.2% (142) said they prefer oral tablet in preference to injectable ampule in oral form if given choice while prescribing Vitamin D. Moreover 66.7% (64) doctors prefer to prescribe tablet form of Vitamin D instead of injection as oral form for vitamin D deficiency among their patients. One third of patients, 33% (n=59) sustained injury while breaking the ampule which included minor self-controlled bleeding by glass particles in 50% (n=35). Less than half of doctors 46.9% (n=45) said they taught their patients about usage of injectable Vitamin D ampules. Conclusion Majority of patients prefer Vitamin D tablet instead of Oral liquid in glass ampoule if they got the choice among two. The results of this study provide important implications for our doctors about patients concern of hazard, after taste and compliance with orally administered Vitamin D glass ampoules.

Purpose: Avastin® (bevacizumab) is an anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) monoclonal antibody given as an off-label drug by intravitreal administration for treatment of ocular diseases. The drug's clinical application and its cost-benefit profile has generated demand for its division into single-use vials to meet the low volume and low-cost doses necessary for intraocular administration. However, the safety of compounding the drug in single-use vials is still under discussion. In this study, the stability and efficacy of Avastin® repacked in individual single-use glass vials and glass ampoules by external compounding pharmacies were evaluated. Methods: Polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (PAGE), size-exclusion chromatography (SEC), dynamic light scattering (DLS), and turbidimetry were selected to detect the formation of aggregates of various sizes. Changes in bevacizumab biological efficacy were investigated by using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Results: Repacked and reference bevacizumab showed similar results when analyzed by PAGE. By SEC, a slight increase in high molecular weight aggregates and a reduction in bevacizumab monomers were observed in the products of the three compounding pharmacies relative to those in the reference bevacizumab. A comparison of repacked and reference SEC chromatograms showed that the mean monomer loss was ≤1% for all compounding pharmacies. Protein aggregates in the nanometer- and micrometer-size ranges were not detected by DLS and turbidimetry. In the efficacy assay, the biological function of repacked bevacizumab was preserved, with

Polymer gel is widely used in water shut-off and profile control. For success of conformance treatment, it is very important to study the dynamic gelation process of polymer gel, especially in porous media. Based on the systems of HPAM/ phenol formaldehyde resin (PFR), the dynamic gelation process in porous media was studied in an unconsolidated sandpack of the circulating device. The results showed that dynamic gelation time was much longer than static gelation time in ampoule bottle and porous media. With permeability increasing or injected speed decreasing, the dynamic initial gelation time increased but the dynamic initial gelation time varied unconspicuously. In dynamic gelation process, the system of HPAM/ PFR could be injected into in-depth of reservoir more easily. The relationship between permeability and apparent viscosity was in accordance with equation y=a (1-e-bx). The apparent viscosity after dynamic gelation was in contrast with linear velocity of b.

IntroductionOxytocin, administered via injection, is recommended by WHO for the prevention and treatment of postpartum haemorrhage. However, the susceptibility of oxytocin injection to thermal degradation has led WHO and UNICEF to recommend cold-chain storage of all oxytocin products. Nevertheless, some oxytocin products supplied to the global market are labelled for storage at ≤25°C, often with a shorter shelf-life relative to products labelled for refrigeration. Differences in labelled storage requirements can lead to uncertainties among stakeholders around the relative stability of oxytocin products and specifically whether ≤25°C products are more resistant to degradation. Such confusion can potentially influence policies associated with procurement, distribution, storage and the use of oxytocin in resource-poor settings.ObjectivesTo compare the stability of oxytocin injection ampoules formulated for storage at ≤25°C with those labelled for refrigerated storage.DesignAccelerated and temperature cycling stability studies were performed with oxytocin ampoules procured by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) from four manufacturers.MethodUsing oxytocin ampoules procured by UNFPA, accelerated stability (up to 120 days) and temperature cycling (up to 135 days between elevated and refrigerated temperatures) studies were performed at 30°C, 40°C and 50°C. Oxytocin content was quantified using a validated HPLC-UV method.ResultsAll ampoules evaluated exhibited similar stability profiles under accelerated degradation conditions with the exception of one product formulated for ≤25°C storage, where the rate of degradation increased at 50°C relative to other formulations. Similar degradation trends at elevated temperatures were observed during temperature cycling, while no significant degradation was observed during refrigerated periods of the study.ConclusionOxytocin ampoules formulated for non-refrigerated storage demonstrated comparable stability to those labelled for refrigerated storage and should not be interpreted by stakeholders as offering a more stable alternative. Furthermore, these products should not be procured for use in territories with high ambient temperatures, where all oxytocin injection products should be supplied and stored under refrigerated conditions.

In electric furnaces destined for experimental geochemical investigations, a small temperature gradient (TG) always exists, and it is difficult to avoid it. In our electric furnaces (from bottom to top) the temperature rises in the lower part (TG = 0.25°/cm) and falls in the upper part (TG = -0.16°/cm). Long-term runs with quartz and water at 300 °C have shown the attainment of equilibrium at TG equal to -0.16°/cm. At TG equal to 0.25°/cm, the silica re- precipitated from the ampoule bottom onto its walls above the meniscus, and the aqueous silica concentration was reduced and became 300 times lower than quartz solubility. The obtained results were explained by the combined action of slow convection of water and thermal diffusion of silica. The efficient mechanism of fractionation revealed by us can be extended to other substances and has geochemical and technological importance.

Deferrioxamine, a bacterial hydroxamic siderophore having high binding affinity for Fe(III), is used in its immobilized form, as self-assembled monolayer on Au, for accumulation and recognition of Fe(III) from the solution phase. The accumulated Fe(III) is detected via both active mode based on faradaic reduction current of Fe(III), and inactive mode based on impedimetric effect of accumulated Fe(III) against redox reaction of a suitable probe. Appropriate electrochemical techniques, square wave voltammetry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, are used for the transduction of analytical signals obtained by this sensor. Then, the parameters influencing the sensor response are optimized. In the best conditions, a linear response, from 1.0×10−10 to 1.0×10−7 M Fe(III) in logarithmic scale with a detection limit of 2.0×10−11 M, and mean relative standard deviation of 1.7% for n=4 is observed. The results show that the sensor can be used for determination of Fe(III) in the presence of various inorganic ions and biological species. Validity of the method and applicability of the sensor are successfully tested by determination of Fe(III) in various real samples including plant tissue (corn leaves), industrial alloy (Ferrotitanium), and pharmaceutical samples (Venofer® ampoule, Ironorm® capsule, and V.M. Protein® powder).

Single crystals of Sr0.5CuZrSe3 (I), Ba0.5CuZrSe3 (II), SrCuYSe3 (III), and BaCuYSe3 (IV) are prepared by solid state reactions of stoichiometric amounts of Cu or Cu2Se (in case of (III)), Ba or BaSe (in case of (II)), and the remaining elements (sealed silica ampoules, 1.

The Hg-rich amalgams La11,7Hg44,03 (I), Nd11Hg44.5 (II), and Sm11Hg44.5 (III) are prepared by dissolving the lanthanoid metals in a Hg surplus (evacuated glass ampoule, 300 °C, 12 h) followed by removal of excess Hg via distillation.

Bar-shaped single-crystals of Ce11Ge3.73In6.27 are prepared by solid state reaction of a 11:3:7 molar mixture of Ce, Ge, and In (sealed Nb ampoule in silica jacket, 950 °C, 2 d).

Objective To compare sterility and microbial (bacteria and fungi) load in the outer part of hyperbaric bupivacaine (Neocaína®) in ampoule and bupivacaine in vial, in conventional and sterile pack formulations. Methods The sterile packs were divided into two groups: G1 (n=16) with ampoules and G2 (n=16) with vials. Conventional formulations were divided into two groups, being G3 (n=16) with ampoules and G4 (n=16) with vials. The ampoules and vials were opened and had their content drawn. The empty bottles were then placed in sterile plastic bags and sent for analysis of microbial load (bacteria and fungi) and sterility testing. Data were analyzed using the χ2 test with Yates correction, and 95% confidence interval. Results G1 and G2 showed no bacterial growth when compared to conventional groups (p

The new title compound is prepared by solid state metathesis reaction of MgCl2, GaN, Li3N, and Li3BN2 in the molar ratio of 3:1:1:1 (Nb ampule, 1100 °C, 48 h).

The novel ternary Zintl phase Li3NaGe2 is prepared by heating a stoichiometric mixture of the elements (Ta ampoule in evacuated silica tubes, 400 °C, 7 d; cooling at a rate of 0.5 °C/min).

LnCuGa3 (Ln: La—Nd, Sm—Gd) are prepared by either repeated arc melting of stoichiometric amounts of the elements or by induction heating (Ta ampoule, 1200—1350 °C, 50 min).

Twenty-eight new Heusler phases of title are prepared from the elements by induction heating (Nb ampoules, complex heating and annealing schedules).

Since Gd3BiO3 (I) is only observed as a minor impurity, Gd8Bi3O8 (II) is prepared by solid state reaction of a 1:1 molar mixture of GdBi and Gd2O3 (Ta ampoules in Mo susceptor under vacuum, 1300 °C, 24 h).

An electrochemical method is described for the voltammetric determination of isoproterenol in the presence of uric acid using p -chloranil-carbon nanotubes paste electrode. Cyclic voltammetric, chronoamperometric, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopic methods have used to investigate the suitability of p -chloranil as a mediator for the electrocatalytic oxidation of isoproterenol at pH = 10.5. Using differential pulse voltammetry, isoproterenol (ISPT) and uric acid (UA) in a mixture can be measured simultaneously and individually with a potential difference of 360 mV. The electrocatalytic currents increase linearly with ISPT and UA concentrations over the concentration ranges of 0.015–100 μmol L −1 ISPT and 3.0–310 μmol L −1 UA. The detection limits for ISPT and UA were equal to 0.009 and 2.3 μmol L −1 , respectively. The diffusion coefficient and the kinetic parameters such as electron transfer coefficient and heterogeneous rate constant were determined for ISPT, using the electrochemical approaches. The proposed method was successfully applied to the determination of isoproterenol in both ampoule and urine samples.

The processes of dehydration and rehydration of β-cyclodextrin were studied by analysis of the 1H NMR (nuclear magnetic resonance) line shape. Dehydration was carried in an open ampoule as a function of temperature and above 400 K total dehydration of β-cyclodextrin was observed. This result was confirmed by the thermogravimetry (TG) measurements. Rehydration was studied as a function of time at room temperature. After 40 days, β-cyclodextrin was found to absorb eight water molecules. The analysis of temperature changes in the shape of the 1H NMR line of β-cyclodextrin kept in a closed ampoule and its dielectric measurements provided information on the mobility of water molecules. The water molecules were found to perform complex molecular motions, that is, reorientational jumps below 200 K and additionally, translational motion (diffusion) above 200 K.

Objective Ketorolac added to tramadol as an injection mixture convenient for clinical use has been shown to be an effective balanced analgesic regimen in alleviating moderate-to-severe pain. However, analytical confirmation of the compatibility and stability of this combination is not available. This study examined the compatibility and stability of this combination. Methods Two different mixtures containing ketorolac tromethamine and tramadol hydrochloride were examined: ketorolac (10 mg/mL) and tramadol (33.3 mg/mL) prepared as injection concentrate in ampoule mingled together in the ratio of one ampoule to one ampoule; diluted ketorolac (2 mg/mL) and tramadol (20 mg/mL) prepared in saline infusion solution, with or without pH adjustment. The mixtures were visually inspected for precipitation and color change. Quantitative chemical analysis was performed on days 0, 1, 3 and 7 by high-performance liquid chromatography. Results When stored at room temperature under ambient light, the ketorolac (10 mg/mL)-tramadol (33.3 mg/mL) injection concentrate and ketorolac (2 mg/mL)-tramadol (20 mg/mL) solution, without pH adjustment and adjusted to pH 5–8, were physico-chemically stable, and neither visible precipitation nor loss of concentration was found. With the ketorolac (2 mg/mL)-tramadol (20 mg/mL) solution adjusted to pH 9, however, precipitation occurred immediately, resulting in a significant loss of tramadol. Conclusion This study suggests that a ready-to-use ketorolac-tramadol mixture, either undiluted or diluted in physiological saline solution, can be prepared, with a shelf life of at least 7 days when stored at room temperature under ambient light.

High-pure and single-phase PbI2 polycrystal was synthesized by Pb and I elements (99.9999%) according to the stoichiometry of PbI2 with excess of 0.3% Pb through modified two-zone vapor-transporting method (MTVM). The synthesis reaction was carried in a special quartz ampoule to prevent the ampoule exploding by controlling the temperature. With presynthesized polycrystal, an integral PbI2 single crystal with 15 mm in diameter and 25 mm in length was grown by vertical Bridgman method (VBM). The as-grown crystal was characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), ZC36 megger and Infrared (IR) spectrophotometers. XRD analysis indicated the structure of PbI2 crystal is 2H with hexagonal space group of , the lattice constants of a and c are 0.4560 nm and 0.6979 nm, respectively. The IR transmittance of a sample of 2.5 mm thickness is about 40% in the range from 4000 to 400 cm-1. Resistivity of the crystal is about 1013 Ωcm magnitude. These results demonstrate that the quality of the as-grown crystal is high enough for applications of room temperature nuclear radiation detectors.

The biological effect of Se and Cu²(+) on Escherichia coli (E. coli) growth was studied by using a 3114/3236 TAM Air Isothermal Calorimeter, ampoule method, at 37°C. From the thermogenesis curves, the thermokinetic equations were established under different conditions. The kinetics showed that a low concentration of Se (1-10 μg/mL) promoted the growth of E. coli, and a high concentration of Se (10 μg/mL) inhibited the growth, but the Cu²(+) was always inhibiting the growth of E. coli. Moreover, there was an antagonistic or positive synergistic effect of Se and Cu²(+) on E. coli in the different culture medium when Se was 1-10 μg/ml and Cu²(+) was 1-20 μg/ml. There was a negative synergistic effect of Se and Cu²(+) on E. coli when Se was higher than 10 μg/ml and Cu²(+) was higher than 20 μg/ml. The antagonistic or synergistic effect between Se and Cu²(+) on E. coli was related to the formation of Cu-Se complexes under the different experimental conditions chosen.

OBJECTIVE: To determine whether radiochemical purity is affected when 99mTc radiopharmaceuticals are prepared using sodium chloride injection from plastic ampoules that have been exposed to light. METHODS: Sodium chloride injection from plastic ampoules that were either exposed to light for 7 days or protected from light was used in the preparation of nine common 99mTc radiopharmaceuticals: albumin nanocolloid, exametazime, macrosalb, mebrofenin, medronate, pentetate, sestamibi, succimer and tetrofosmin. Five different batches of ampoules (exposed and unexposed) were used for each radiopharmaceutical. Radiochemical purity was measured by established analytical methods (thin-layer chromatography, liquid chromatography and nuclepore filtration) as specified in the European Pharmacopoeia or by the manufacturer. Analysis was performed within 1 h of preparation and at the products' expiries. RESULTS: The radiochemical purity of each 99mTc radiopharmaceutical was satisfactory when unexposed sodium chloride injection was used in its preparation. There was a significant difference between exposed and unexposed results (P < 0.05) for 99mTc exametazime (69.0 ± 9.3% vs. 88.6 ± 0.8%), 99mTc albumin nanocolloid (94.3 ± 1.1% vs. 98.8 ± 0.4%) and 99mTc macrosalb (84.0 ± 4.1% vs. 98.0 ± 2.2%) after preparation. Unsatisfactory radiochemical purity was the result of 99mTc pertechnetate impurity. The radiochemical purities of 99mTc albumin nanocolloid and 99mTc macrosalb increased over time and were satisfactory at their expiries. CONCLUSION: When 99mTc albumin nanocolloid, 99mTc macrosalb and 99mTc exametazime are prepared using sodium chloride injection from plastic ampoules that have been exposed to light, radiochemical purity is adversely affected. The other 99mTc radiopharmaceuticals tested are unaffected.

The biological effect of Ho3+ on Halobacterium halobium R1 growth was analyzed using the microcalorimetric method. Using the LKB-2277 Bioactivity Monitor with the ampoule method at 37°C, the thermogenic curves of the growth of H. halobium R1 were obtained. Then, the maximum power (P m) and the growth rate constants (k) were determined, and the values of P m and k were linked to the concentration of Ho3+. In all, the addition of Ho3+ cause a decrease in the maximum heat production and growth rate constants. To confirm the results, the shapes of H. halobium R1 cell addition with Ho3+ using a transmission electron microscope (TEM) were observed. According to the thermogenic curves and TEM photos of H. halobium R1 under different conditions, it is clear that the metabolic mechanism of H. halobium R1 growth has been changed with the addition of Ho3+.

The biological effect of Ho3+ on Halobacterium halobium R1 growth was analyzed by a microcalorimetric technique. By means of LKB-2277 Bioactivity Monitor, ampoule method at 37°C, we obtained the thermogenic curves of H. halobium R1 growth. To analyze the results, the maximum power (P m) and the growth rate constants (k) were determined, which show that values of P m and k are linked to the concentration of Ho3+. In all, the addition of Ho3+ causes a decrease of the maximum heat production and growth rate constants. For comparison, we observed the shapes of H. halobium R1 cell by means of transmission electron microscope (TEM). According to the thermogenic curves and TEM photos of H. halobium R1 under different conditions, it is clear that metabolic mechanism of H. halobium R1 growth has been changed with the addition of Ho3+.

The indium-rich intermetallic compounds SrRh2In8 and SrIrIn4 were synthesised from the elements in sealed tantalum ampoules in a high-frequency furnace. Both samples were investigated by X-ray powder and single crystal diffraction: CaCo2Al8 type, Pbam, a = 1617.0(3), b = 1387.4(3), c = 438.26(9) pm, wR2 = 0.0495, 1971 F2 values, 70 variables for SrRh2In8 and LaCoAl4 type, Pmma, a = 867.8(2), b = 432.33(9), c = 765.4(2) pm, wR2 = 0.0516, 692 F2 values, 24 variables for SrIrIn4. In both structures, the indium atoms build up two-dimensional networks of distorted triangles, squares, and pentagons in an AA stacking sequence. The resulting trigonal and square prismatic voids are filled by the transition metal and indium atoms, respectively. In SrIrIn4 the pentagonal prisms are occupied by strontium, while the latter are alternatingly occupied by strontium and indium in SrRh2In8. Together the transition metal and indium atoms build up complex three-dimensional [IrIn4] (261–288 pm Ir–In and 310–335 pm In–In) and [Rh2In8] (261–292 pm Rh–In and 290–348 pm In–In) networks in which the strontium atoms are located in distorted pentagonal tubes.

Thermogenic metabolic curves were determined by the ampoule method at 303 K using a TAM air isothermal microcalorimeter in mitochondria isolated from rice 9311 (Oryza sativa L). From the thermogenic curves the activity recovery rate constant k and the maximum heat power P m were obtained. Both were positively correlated to the protein content of rice mitochondria. The corresponding correlation coefficients were 0.9959 and 0.9950, respectively, indicating that the in vitro metabolic activity of mitochondria can be reliably expressed by these parameters. Addition of La (III) ions in concentrations ranging from 0 to 130 μg/mL resulted in significantly higher k and P m values. Concentrations from 140 to 180 μg/mL had the opposite effect. These results are consistent with previous reports on the effects of rare earth elements on plant growth. We propose that the lanthanum-induced change of mitochondrial metabolic activity is a possible mechanism by which La (III) ions influence indica rice 9311 growth.

Analytical studies were carried out, for the first time, to evaluate the use of N-bromosuccinimide (NBS) as an analytical reagent for the spectrophotometric determination of eleven therapeutically important fluoroquinolone antibiotics (FQA). The procedures involved the reaction of the FQA with NBS and subsequent measurement of the excess NBS by its reaction with p-phenylenediamine (PDA) to give a violet colored product that was measured at 530 nm. Different variables affecting the reaction (concentration of NBS, concentration of PDA, pH of reaction medium, reaction time, and the diluting solvents) were carefully studied and optimized. The molar ratio and mechanism of the reaction between each of the studied FQA with NBS were proposed using UV-vis, IR, and NMR techniques. Under the optimum reaction conditions, the analytical method was developed and validated. Beer's law was obeyed in the general concentration range of 3-25 microg/ml. The assay limits of detection and quantitation were 0.33-1.29 and 1.10-4.31 microg/ml, respectively. The precision of the method was satisfactory; the values of relative standard deviations did not exceed 2%. The proposed method was successfully applied to the analysis of the investigated FQA in their pure and pharmaceutical dosage forms without interference from the common excipients (label claim values were 99.85-100.17+/-0.13-0.59%). Interference from ascorbic acid, that is co-formulated as a stabilizer for the ampoule form, was avoided by its pre-oxidation with potassium bromate before applying the analytical procedure. The results obtained by the proposed method were comparable with those obtained by the official and reported methods.

Working cell banks (WCB's) are commonly applied to initiate cell culture manufacturing campaigns for production of recombinant or therapeutic proteins. These campaigns typically begin with inoculation of cells previously cryopreserved in cryovials or ampoules. The baseline process proceeds from thaw of cell bank cryovials to scaling up through the seed train and inoculum train, followed by fed-batch production. While cryovials are typically used in the development of WCB's and initiation of manufacturing campaigns, they are not optimal for the growing demands of commercial production. Cryovials are small on average (1-2mL/vial) and filling/removal is performed through an open screw cap. This process results in manual operations and the use of many culture vessels, resulting in the risk of contamination and potential campaign-to-campaign variability. Single-use (disposable) bags have been investigated more recently as a possible solution to minimize open handling steps and to shorten seed train scale-up. Bags offer larger storage volumes, but also come assembled with thermoplastic tubing for sterile connections. Wide-spread adoption of single-use bags for WCB applications has not been observed to this point as currently available tubing and connections can't hold up to the demands (break or can't be welded) when stored/transported at frozen or cryogenic (-196°C) temperatures. To overcome these challenges, novel thermoplastic tubing was developed to balance both the flexibility and robustness demands of cryogenic storage and tube welding characteristics necessary for sterile closed-system processing. The new FP-FLEX™ tubing can be frozen and maintained at cryogenic temperatures, thawed and sterile welded to other thermoplastic tubing (C-Flex®).

Polycrystalline Ce2Ru2Al is prepared by arc melting of the elements and subsequent annealing (evacuated quartz ampoules, 823 K, 30 d).

Er10Co1.3Al2.7 is prepared by arc melting of the elements followed by annealing (alumina crucible in evacuated silica ampoule, 1123 K, 1 week).

The new title compound is hydrothermally synthesized from a mixture of Ca(OH)2, UO3, SiO2, KOH, and H2O in a molar ratio of K:Ca:U:Si = 75:1:1:4 (gold ampule, 1400 bar, 550 °C, 4 d; 45% yield).

YAlC single crystals are prepared from Y, Al, and perylene as carbon source in a Mg flux (Nb ampoules, 670 °C, 7 d; cooling to 570 °C at a rate of 2 K/h).

[VO(N3)3] is prepared by a fluoride-azide exchange reaction between [VOF3] and Me3SiN3 in MeCN solution (evacuated Teflon FEP ampoule, -196 °C -20 °C, 2 h, 94% yield) and subsequent removal of volatiles in vacuum at -20 °C and 25 °C [caution: polyazides are extremely shock-sensitive and can explode violently].

Large single crystals of Ba2V(VO4)2(OH) (I) and Sr2V(VO4)2(OH) (II) are hydrothermally synthesized from mixtures of BaO or SrO, V2O3, V2O5, and aqueous NaOH as a mineralizer solution (Ag ampules, autoclave, 1.2 kbar, 650 °C, 10 d).

A black metallic single crystal of the title compound is synthesized from the elements using lithium metal as a flux (Nb ampule, 1250 °C, 72 h).

Cs8-xGa8-ySi38+y (I) is obtained from a stoichiometric reaction of the elements in a CsCl flux, whereas K8Zn3.5Si42.5 (II) and Rb7.9Zn3.6Si42.4 (III) are prepared using a combined KBr or RbCl /Zn flux (alumina crucible sealed in stainless steel ampoule, 1173 K, 1 h; cooling to 923 K with a rate of 0.3 K/min).

The title compounds are prepared from mixtures of the elements (Ta ampules, 1000—1200 °C, 1—8 d) and characterized by single crystal XRD.

Ce23Ru7Zn4 is obtained by melting of the elements in stoichiometric amounts (Nb ampoule, 1500 K, 10 min).

In this study, causes of collapsed bacterial cultures in glass ampoules observed after freeze-drying were investigated as well as the influence of collapse on residual moisture content (RMC) and viability. Also, the effect of heat radiation and post freeze-drying treatments on the RMC was studied. Cake morphologies of 21 bacterial strains obtained after freeze-drying with one standard protocol could be classified visually into four major types: no collapse, porous, partial collapse, and collapse. The more pronounced the collapse, the higher residual moisture content of the freeze-dried product, ranging from 1.53 % for non-collapsed products to 3.62 % for collapsed products. The most important cause of collapse was the mass of the inserted cotton plug in the ampoule. Default cotton plugs with a mass between 21 and 30 mg inside the ampoule did not affect the viability of freeze-dried Aliivibrio fischeri LMG 4414(T) compared to ampoules without cotton plugs. Cotton plugs with a mass higher than 65 mg inside the ampoule induced a full collapsed product with rubbery look (melt-back) and decreasing viability during storage. Heat radiation effects in the freeze-drying chamber and post freeze-drying treatments such as exposure time to air after freeze-drying and manifold drying time prior to heat sealing of ampoules influenced the RMC of freeze-dried products. To produce uniform batches of freeze-dried bacterial strains with intact cake structures and highest viabilities, inserted cotton plugs should not exceed 21 mg per ampoule. Furthermore, heat radiation effects should be calculated in the design of the primary drying phase and manifold drying time before heat sealing should be determined as a function of exposure time to air.