Qualitative evaluation of ferritin in serum samples by Raman spectroscopy and principal component analysis.

Iron molecule is of great importance in the synthesis of hemoglobin which is essential for oxygen transport. Iron levels are quantified by accurately high sensitivity tests, such as serum ferritin (SF). However, common studies to quantify SF are long and strenuous (~ 5 h), for example enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

Cr localization and speciation in roots of chromate fed Helianthus annuus L. seedlings using synchrotron techniques.

In order to gain knowledge on the potential use of Helianthus annuus L. for the remediation of Cr(VI) polluted waters, hydroponics experiments were set up to determine Cr uptake and tolerance in different Cr(VI)-sulfate conditions, and Cr biotransformations. Results indicated that Cr(VI) promoted seed germination, and plant tolerance was higher at younger plant stages.

Gender difference in the gastric emptying measured by magnetogastrography using a semi-solid test meal.

Background/aims: evidence of gender-related differences in gastric emptying have been reported in the literature. Usually, those researches have focusing only with solid or liquid meal and invasive techniques. The objective of this study was to know the differences in the half time of gastric emptying and frequency of peristaltic contractions measured with magnetogastrography (MGG) on healthy subjects, using a semi-solid test meal.

Effects of anatomical position on esophageal transit time: a biomagnetic diagnostic technique.

Aim: To study the esophageal transit time (ETT) and compare its mean value among three anatomical inclinations of the body; and to analyze the correlation of ETT to body mass index (BMI).

Methods: A biomagnetic technique was implemented to perform this study: (1) The transit time of a magnetic marker (MM) through the esophagus was measured using two fluxgate sensors placed over the chest of 14 healthy subjects; (2) the ETT was assessed in three anatomical positions (at upright, fowler, and supine positions; 90 degrees , 45 degrees and 0 degrees , respectively).

Results: ANOVA and Tuckey post-hoc tests demonstrated significant differences between ETT mean of the different positions.

Blackberry (Rubus spp.): a pH-dependent oral contrast medium for gastrointestinal tract images by magnetic resonance imaging.

In this study, seven fruits have been tested on their magnetic properties, paramagnetic metal content and contrast enhancement in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of phantom and in vivo. Magnetic susceptibility was determined for the fruit pulps, as well as the contents of paramagnetic metals; iron, manganese and copper. The total content of these metals was 4.