Understanding the chemical and mineralogical composition of commercial henna and jagua tattoos and dyes-a multi-analytical approach.

Temporary tattoos and dyes constitute a great analytical challenge in relation to the regulatory control of their ingredients. Most of these commercial products are not labeled according to their content and their chemical nature is highly diverse. Therefore, it is necessary to analyze these complex samples to evaluate the potential presence of metallic impurities, to ensure the safety of cosmetic products contributing to health protection. This study proposes a multi-analytical methodology, which includes handheld X-ray fluorescence (h-XRF) and X-ray diffraction (XRD), complemented by variable pressure scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy-dispersive X-ray spectrometry (VP-SEM-EDS) to fully characterize 34 commercial samples of jagua and henna tattoos and dyes. The approach allowed the identification of the main constituents providing complementary compositional data and differences between sample types were established. In addition, information on the degree of natural pigments homogeneity was also obtained. The results' discussion considering the current European cosmetics regulation may be useful to support the drafting of safety requirements and specific regulation.

Effect of different healing stages on stable isotope ratios in skeletal lesions.

INTRODUCTION: Physiological stress is one of the various factors that can have an impact on stable isotope ratios. However, its effect on bone collagen stable isotope ratios is still not fully understood. This study aims to build on previous research on how different disease stages may affect bone collagen stable isotope ratios. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Carbon (δ13 C) and nitrogen (δ15 N) isotope ratios were assessed in 33 skeletons that retained evidence of infectious disease and healed fractures. Samples were taken from active lesions (long bones n = 14; ribs n = 4), healed lesions (long bones n = 10; ribs n = 9), or a fracture callus (long bones n = 9; ribs n = 3). Results were compared to stable isotope ratios calculated for regions on these bones that did not retain evidence of disease or fracture. RESULTS: Long bones with active lesions had a significantly higher average δ15 N (δ15 N = 11.1 ± 0.9‰) compared to those without lesions (δ15 N = 10.7 ± 0.7‰; p = .02), while fracture calluses showed the largest range for both δ15 N and δ13 C. There were no significant differences in stable isotope ratios when compared between nonlesion and lesion sites in the ribs. DISCUSSION: The increase in δ15 N seen in active lesions, when compared with δ15 N from nonlesion regions on the same long bone, may be a consequence of altered protein metabolism. The high variability of δ15 N and δ13 C in fractures may be related to different healing stages of the calluses. This study suggests that stable isotope data can contribute information about diseases in the past, as well as an individual's response to diseases in the absence of modern medicine and antibiotics.

Shrouded in history: Unveiling the ways of life of an early Muslim population in Santarém, Portugal (8th- 10th century AD).

In around 716 AD, the city of Santarém, Portugal, was conquered by the Berber and Arab armies that swept the Iberian Peninsula and went on to rule the region until the 12th century. Archaeological excavations in 2007/08 discovered an Islamic necropolis (Avenida 5 de Outubro #2-8) that appears to contain the remains of an early Muslim population in Santarém (8th- 10th century). In this study, skeletal material from 58 adult individuals was analysed for stable carbon (δ13Ccol; δ13Cap), nitrogen (δ15N) and sulphur (δ34S) isotope ratios in bones, and stable oxygen (δ18O), carbon (δ13Cen) and radiogenic strontium (87Sr/86Sr) isotopes in tooth enamel. The results of this study revealed a dietary pattern of predominantly C3-plant and domestic C3-fed herbivore consumption during adulthood (δ13Ccol and δ15N, respectively) but a higher proportion of C4-plant input during childhood (δ13Cen) for some individuals-interpreted as possible childhood consumption of millet porridge, a common practice in North Africa-in those with unorthodox burial types (Groups 1 and 2) that was not practiced in the individuals with canonical burials (Group 3). In this first mobility study of a medieval Muslim population in Portugal, δ18ODW values revealed greater heterogeneity in Groups 1 and 2, consistent with diverse origins, some in more humid regions than Santarém when compared to regional precipitation δ18O data, contrasting the more homogenous Group 3, consistent with the local precipitation δ18O range. Ancient DNA analysis conducted on three individuals revealed maternal (mtDNA) and paternal (Y-chromosome) lineages compatible with a North African origin for (at least) some of the individuals. Additionally, mobility of females in this population was higher than males, potentially resulting from a patrilocal social system, practiced in Berber and Arab communities. These results serve to offer a more detailed insight into the ancestry and cultural practices of early Muslim populations in Iberia.

The chemistry behind the body art: unveiling the elemental profile and heavy metal content of natural tattoos and dyes by ICP-MS.

Temporary tattoos and dyes are increasing popularity as an alternative to permanent ones. However, knowledge on its elementary composition is scarce and, this scientific gap can potentially make them a source of heavy metal exposure on humans. The present research aimed to explore the possibility of using the inorganic chemical signature to characterize natural pigments-based products and to evaluate the heavy metal content in jagua temporary tattoos and henna temporary hair dyes and tattoos. Thirty-four different samples of commercial products were analyzed for the presence and quantity of eleven trace elements (Al, Cr, Mn, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, As, Cd, Ba, and Pb) by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). The overall mean concentrations varied between 0.02 and 973 µg g-1 in solid samples or 0.01-1878 µg g-1 for paste ones, wherein potential fake products were uncovered. None of the 34 samples considered comply with the current European Cosmetics Regulation. Samples were differentiated according to their Cr, Zn, Ba, and Pb content. The overall results revealed highly variable levels in the investigated samples, which leads us to suggest detailed quality controls of these materials, due the fact that their continued use can origin potential threat to human health.

Formulation of goat's milk yogurt with fig powder: Aromatic profile, physicochemical and microbiological characteristics.

Fig (Ficus carica L.) is an excellent source of sugars, dietary fibers, minerals, vitamins, organic acids and phytochemicals. The aim of the present work was to investigate the effect of fig powder supplement, as a natural sweetener and flavoring agent, on the physicochemical, microbiological and sensory characteristics of goat's milk yogurt. It aimed also to determine antioxidant capacity and volatile profile using gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) analysis. Pyrolysis-GC/MS (Py-GC/MS) was also used for the characterization of fig powder. Fig powder exhibited an important antioxidant activity against DPPH. Radical (IC50 = 1.92 ± 0.05 mg per mL). Volatile compounds, from several classes (acids, alcohols, aldehydes, esters, triterpenoids and others) were identified in fig powder. Py-GC/MS data revealed that degradation of fig powder macromolecules leaded to the formation of several aromatic and volatile compounds such as fatty acids, ketones, aromatic phenols, lactones among others. The addition of fig powder increased significantly (p < 0.05) the titrable acidity, the total solids, the carbohydrate content, and the total lactic acid bacteria count of yogurts. Likewise, fig powder supplement improved yogurt taste, texture and aroma and covered the unpleasant flavor of goat's milk. Thus, fig powder is a natural sweetener and flavoring agent that can be used to formulate a new stirred goat's yogurt of good quality.