Revolutionizing scandium detection in real samples: Unleashing the power of sol-gel-based optical sensor.

The development of a highly selective and ultra-sensitive optical sensor for detecting scandium (Sc3+) ions involves incorporating the reagent 2,3-dichloro-6-(3-carboxy-2-hydroxy-1-naphthylazo)quinoxaline (DCHNAQ) into a silica sol-gel thin film on a glass substrate. This innovative approach utilizes tetraethoxy-silane (TEOS) as the precursor, maintaining a sol-gel pH level of 4.5, a water-to-alkoxide ratio of 5:1, and a DCHNAQ concentration of 5.0 × 10-4 M. A detailed exploration of the impact of sol-gel parameters on the sensing capabilities of the developed sensor has been meticulously undertaken. This innovative sensor demonstrates remarkable selectivity in evaluating Sc3+ ions over a dynamic range of 7.5-170 ng/mL, with limits of quantification and detection recorded at 7.3 and 2.20 ng/mL, respectively. Consistent results are achieved with a minimal RSD of 1.47 and 0.94% for Sc3+ ions at 50 and 100 ng/mL, respectively, coupled with a swift response time of three min. Assessments of interference demonstrate a noteworthy preference for Sc3+ions, accomplished by enclosing DCHNAQ within the sol-gel framework and making optimal structural modifications to the doped sol-gel. The sensor offers straightforward regeneration using a 0.25 M EDTA solution, exhibiting complete reversibility. Comparative analysis with other methodologies underscores the efficacy in determining Sc3+ions in various reference materials, including plant leaves, fish, water, alloys, ores, and monazite samples.

A comparison of kinesio taping and classical massage in addition to cervical stabilization exercise in patients with chronic neck pain.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Studies comparing the effectiveness of kinesio taping (KT) and classical massage (CM) in chronic neck pain (CNP) are scarce. This study aimed to compare the effects of KT and CM in addition to cervical stabilization exercise (CSE) in patients with CNP. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Patients were randomly allocated to KT + CSE and CM + CSE groups. Disability with the Neck Disability Index (NDI), pain with the Visual Analog Scale, cervical range of motion with a goniometer, and quality of life (QoL) with the 36-Item Short-Form (SF-36) were assessed baseline and after a 4-week treatment. RESULTS: Improvement was observed in NDI and physical component scores of SF-36 in favor of the KT + CSE group and in rotation movements in favor of the CM + CSE group (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: In CNP, KT + CSE was superior in improving disability and QoL compared to CM + CSE, whereas CM + CSE was superior in increasing rotation movements compared to KT + CSE.

Conservative laparoscopic approach to adnexal torsion.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the conservative laparoscopic approach to adnexal torsion during reproductive age. METHODS: We present 18 patients with adnexal torsion between January 1997 and December 2005. Patients treated conservatively were controlled by ultrasonography during the postoperative period. RESULTS: Of 18 patients with adnexal torsion, 12 patients were treated by conservative laparoscopic surgery after detorsion, one patient with only tubal torsion had undergone laparoscopic salpengectomy. Laparoscopy was converted to laparotomy after laparoscopic detorsion in five cases. Of five patients in this group, four patients was performed cystectomy, one patient salpingo-oopherectomy. Conservative treatment was carried out in 16 of 18 cases with adnexal torsions. CONCLUSION: Conservative management is a safe way to preserve the ovarian function during the reproductive period.