Harmful plasticizers
Two scientists from Uludag University in Turkey have examined the potential transfer of harmful phthalates from toys onto the skin of children via sweat.
Two scientists from Uludag University in Turkey have examined the potential transfer of harmful phthalates from toys onto the skin of children via sweat.1 Using an artificial sweat formula of sodium chloride, urea and lactic acid they extracted di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalates using GC–MS following activated carbon enrichment of samples.
The ultimate analytical conditions for the simultaneous determination of analyte from spiked artificial sweat was: pH (3.1), activated carbon amount (1.4 g L−1), adsorption time (55 min) and elution solvent (chloroform). These conditions were applied to study the migration of di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate from three different children’s toys into artificial sweat. The detection limit of the method was 13.8 μg L−1, while the relative standard deviation value for the analysis of 100 µg L−1 (%) of the analyte was below 3.7% (n = 5).
The team concluded that their method will allow the transfer of di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalates from toys to sweat to be estimated in future studies and risk assessments.
1. Elif Tümay Özer and Seref Güçer, Polymer Testing, 31(3), 474–480 (2012).
This story originally appeared in The Column. Click here to view that issue.
The Next Frontier for Mass Spectrometry: Maximizing Ion Utilization
January 20th 2025In this podcast, Daniel DeBord, CTO of MOBILion Systems, describes a new high resolution mass spectrometry approach that promises to increase speed and sensitivity in omics applications. MOBILion recently introduced the PAMAF mode of operation, which stands for parallel accumulation with mobility aligned fragmentation. It substantially increases the fraction of ions used for mass spectrometry analysis by replacing the functionality of the quadrupole with high resolution ion mobility. Listen to learn more about this exciting new development.
Liquid Chromatography to Analyze Vitamin D Proteins in Psoriasis Patients
January 21st 2025Can a protein involved in delivering Vitamin D to target tissues have an altered serum profile in psoriasis patients with cardiovascular disease? Researchers used liquid chromatography (LC) to help find out.
The Complexity of Oligonucleotide Separations
January 9th 2025Peter Pellegrinelli, Applications Specialist at Advanced Materials Technology (AMT) explains the complexity of oligonucleotide separations due to the unique chemical properties of these molecules. Issues such as varying length, sequence complexity, and hydrophilic-hydrophobic characteristics make efficient separations difficult. Separation scientists are addressing these challenges by modifying mobile phase compositions, using varying ion-pairing reagents, and exploring alternative separation modes like HILIC and ion-exchange chromatography. Due to these complexities, AMT has introduced the HALO® OLIGO column, which offers high-resolution, fast separations through its innovative Fused-Core® technology and high pH stability. Alongside explaining the new column, Peter looks to the future of these separations and what is next to come.
A Guide To Finding the Ideal Syringe and Needle
January 20th 2025Hamilton has produced a series of reference guides to assist science professionals in finding the best-suited products and configurations for their applications. The Syringe and Needle Reference Guide provides detailed information on Hamilton Company’s full portfolio of syringes and needles. Everything from cleaning and preventative maintenance to individual part numbers are available for review. It also includes selection charts to help you choose between syringe terminations like cemented needles and luer tips.
