In this work, we have tested two commercially available polymeric films: one with natural porosity (polyvinylidene difluoride - PVDF) and the other modified to include micropores (ethylene-vinyl acetate - EVA) created through needle puncturing. Subsequently, these films were successfully employed for the miniaturization of the electrified liquid-liquid interface formed between water and 1,2-dichloroethane solutions. The geometry of the membranes was assessed with confocal microscopy, the aqueous phase wettability was evaluated with a drop-shape analyzer whereas their ability to support the electrified liquid-liquid interfaces was followed with ion transfer voltammetry.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFThis work compares the electroanalytical performance of two electroanalytical systems based on (1) the glassy carbon electrode (GCE), and (2) the electrified liquid-liquid interface (eLLI), for the detection of fluoroquinolone antibiotic-danofloxacin (DANO). Our aim was to define the optimal conditions to detect the chosen analyte with two employed systems, extract a number of electroanalytical parameters, study the mechanism of the charge transfer reactions (oxidation at GCE and ion transfer across the eLLI), and to provide physicochemical constants for DANO. Detection of the chosen analyte was also performed in the spiked milk samples.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFBackground And Purpose: This study aimed to investigate the reproducibility of a novel approach using 3D printed brachytherapy applicators for the treatment of skin cancer. Specifically, we aimed to assess the accuracy of applicator placement and to minimize the existence of air gap pockets between the applicator and the patient's skin.
Materials And Methods: A total of 20 patients plans diagnosed with skin cancer were enrolled in this study.
Brachytherapy is a type of radiation therapy, in which a radiation source is placed directly or close to a tumor. It is commonly used to treat skin cancer, and enables precise irradiation treatment of affected area (planning target volume - PTV) while minimizing exposure dose to surrounding healthy tissue (organs at risk - OARs). Recently, the use of 3D printing has begun revolutionizing brachytherapy, as it allows manufacturing of custom-designed applicators for unique shape of skin topography, tumor, and surrounding tissues.
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