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Yi C, Zhang Z, Huang T, Xiao H. Identification of liquor adulteration by Raman spectroscopy method based on ICNAFS. SPECTROCHIMICA ACTA. PART A, MOLECULAR AND BIOMOLECULAR SPECTROSCOPY 2024; 312:124068. [PMID: 38417234 DOI: 10.1016/j.saa.2024.124068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Revised: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/01/2024]
Abstract
The health of consumers can be impacted by the additives placed into the liquor. To address the issues of poor accuracy, low reliability, and complex operational procedures in identifying adulteration in existing liquor, an improved convex non-negative matrix factorization (ICNAFS) with an adaptive graph constraint for unsupervised feature extraction is proposed in this paper, with the goal of achieving rapid identification of adulteration in liquor by Raman spectroscopy through dimensionality reduction. For the sake to streamline the calculation process for effective feature extraction and increase the accuracy of the analyzed model, the proposed ICNAFS method incorporates two fundamental models, such as ridge regression and convex non-negative matrix factorization (NMF). In particular, dimensionality reduction of the original spectrum is initially conducted using Principal Component Analysis (PCA), Sequential Projection Algorithm (SPA), Convex Non-Negative Matrix Factorization with an Adaptive Graph Constraint (CNAFS), and ICNAFS respectively. k-means is subsequently employed to merge the four models for clustering analysis. The results suggest that the accuracy of the presented ICNAFS-assisted k-means model is higher than the other techniques, with a clustering accuracy of 98.67%, exhibiting a 4% improvement over the existing CNAFS, through examination of 150 sets of tainted liquor data from five categories of samples. This demonstrates the potency of the proposed ICNAFS-assisted k-means clustering model in conjunction with Raman spectroscopy as a method for detecting tainted liquor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cancan Yi
- Key Laboratory of Metallurgical Equipment and Control Technology, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, Wuhan 430081, China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Mechanical Transmission and Manufacturing Engineering, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430081, China; Precision Manufacturing Institute, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430081, China.
| | - Zhenyu Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Metallurgical Equipment and Control Technology, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, Wuhan 430081, China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Mechanical Transmission and Manufacturing Engineering, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430081, China; Precision Manufacturing Institute, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430081, China
| | - Tao Huang
- Key Laboratory of Metallurgical Equipment and Control Technology, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, Wuhan 430081, China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Mechanical Transmission and Manufacturing Engineering, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430081, China; Precision Manufacturing Institute, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430081, China
| | - Han Xiao
- Key Laboratory of Metallurgical Equipment and Control Technology, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, Wuhan 430081, China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Mechanical Transmission and Manufacturing Engineering, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430081, China; Precision Manufacturing Institute, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430081, China
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Mullin A, Scott M, Vaccaro G, Floresta G, Arillotta D, Catalani V, Corkery JM, Stair JL, Schifano F, Guirguis A. Benzodiazepine Boom: Tracking Etizolam, Pyrazolam, and Flubromazepam from Pre-UK Psychoactive Act 2016 to Present Using Analytical and Social Listening Techniques. PHARMACY 2024; 12:13. [PMID: 38251407 PMCID: PMC10801481 DOI: 10.3390/pharmacy12010013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2023] [Revised: 01/01/2024] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The designer benzodiazepine (DBZD) market continues to expand whilst evading regulatory controls. The widespread adoption of social media by pro-drug use communities encourages positive discussions around DBZD use/misuse, driving demand. This research addresses the evolution of three popular DBZDs, etizolam (E), flubromazepam (F), and pyrazolam (P), available on the drug market for over a decade, comparing the quantitative chemical analyses of tablet samples, purchased from the internet prior to the implementation of the Psychoactive Substances Act UK 2016, with the thematic netnographic analyses of social media content. METHOD Drug samples were purchased from the internet in early 2016. The characterisation of all drug batches were performed using UHPLC-MS and supported with 1H NMR. In addition, netnographic studies across the platforms X (formerly Twitter) and Reddit, between 2016-2023, were conducted. The latter was supported by both manual and artificial intelligence (AI)-driven thematic analyses, using numerous.ai and ChatGPT, of social media threads and discussions. RESULTS UHPLC-MS confirmed the expected drug in every sample, showing remarkable inter/intra batch variability across all batches (E = 13.8 ± 0.6 to 24.7 ± 0.9 mg; F = 4.0 ± 0.2 to 23.5 ± 0.8 mg; P = 5.2 ± 0.2 to 11.5 ± 0.4 mg). 1H NMR could not confirm etizolam as a lone compound in any etizolam batch. Thematic analyses showed etizolam dominated social media discussions (59% of all posts), with 24.2% of posts involving sale/purchase and 17.8% detailing new administration trends/poly-drug use scenarios. Artificial intelligence confirmed three of the top five trends identified manually. CONCLUSIONS Purity variability identified across all tested samples emphasises the increased potential health risks associated with DBZD consumption. We propose the global DBZD market is exacerbated by surface web social media discussions, recorded across X and Reddit. Despite the appearance of newer analogues, these three DBZDs remain prevalent and popularised. Reporting themes on harm/effects and new developments in poly-drug use trends, demand for DBZDs continues to grow, despite their potent nature and potential risk to life. It is proposed that greater controls and constant live monitoring of social media user content is warranted to drive active regulation strategies and targeted, effective, harm reduction strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony Mullin
- Psychopharmacology, Drug Misuse & Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield AL10 9AB, UK; (A.M.); (M.S.); (G.V.); (G.F.); (V.C.); (J.M.C.); (J.L.S.); (F.S.)
| | - Mark Scott
- Psychopharmacology, Drug Misuse & Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield AL10 9AB, UK; (A.M.); (M.S.); (G.V.); (G.F.); (V.C.); (J.M.C.); (J.L.S.); (F.S.)
| | - Giorgia Vaccaro
- Psychopharmacology, Drug Misuse & Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield AL10 9AB, UK; (A.M.); (M.S.); (G.V.); (G.F.); (V.C.); (J.M.C.); (J.L.S.); (F.S.)
| | - Giuseppe Floresta
- Psychopharmacology, Drug Misuse & Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield AL10 9AB, UK; (A.M.); (M.S.); (G.V.); (G.F.); (V.C.); (J.M.C.); (J.L.S.); (F.S.)
- Department of Drug and Health Sciences, University of Catania, 95131 Catania, Italy
| | - Davide Arillotta
- School of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Florence, 50121 Florence, Italy;
| | - Valeria Catalani
- Psychopharmacology, Drug Misuse & Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield AL10 9AB, UK; (A.M.); (M.S.); (G.V.); (G.F.); (V.C.); (J.M.C.); (J.L.S.); (F.S.)
| | - John M. Corkery
- Psychopharmacology, Drug Misuse & Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield AL10 9AB, UK; (A.M.); (M.S.); (G.V.); (G.F.); (V.C.); (J.M.C.); (J.L.S.); (F.S.)
| | - Jacqueline L. Stair
- Psychopharmacology, Drug Misuse & Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield AL10 9AB, UK; (A.M.); (M.S.); (G.V.); (G.F.); (V.C.); (J.M.C.); (J.L.S.); (F.S.)
| | - Fabrizio Schifano
- Psychopharmacology, Drug Misuse & Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield AL10 9AB, UK; (A.M.); (M.S.); (G.V.); (G.F.); (V.C.); (J.M.C.); (J.L.S.); (F.S.)
| | - Amira Guirguis
- Pharmacy, Medical School, The Grove Extension, Swansea University, Swansea SA2 8PP, UK
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Angerer V, Schmid Y, Franz F, Gnann H, Speer JM, Gnann A, Helmecke S, Buchwald A, Brandt SD, Passie T, Liechti ME, Auwärter V. Acute psychotropic, autonomic, and endocrine effects of 5,6-methylenedioxy-2-aminoindane (MDAI) compared with 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) in human volunteers: A self-administration study. Drug Test Anal 2023. [PMID: 38056906 DOI: 10.1002/dta.3622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2023] [Revised: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023]
Abstract
The acute psychoactive, autonomic, and endocrine effects of the new psychoactive substance (NPS) 5,6-methylenedioxy-2-aminoindane (MDAI; 3.0 mg/kg, range 180-228 mg) were investigated in six healthy volunteers (four males, two females) in a non-blinded fashion without placebo. Subjective, cardiovascular, and endocrine responses were compared with two different doses of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) (75 mg and 125 mg) described in previously published placebo-controlled studies, which used identical outcome measures including Visual Analogue Scales (VAS), the Adjective Mood Rating Scale (AMRS), and the 5 Dimensions of Altered States of Consciousness (5D-ASC) scale. MDAI was well tolerated and produced subjective effects comparable with those of 125 mg MDMA. MDAI increased blood pressure similar to 125 mg MDMA but did not increase heart rate or body temperature. MDAI increased cortisol and prolactin levels and could be detected in serum about 20 min post ingestion and remained detectable at least for 4 days. In urine, MDAI was detectable over a period of at least 6 days. Further clinical investigations are warranted to assess whether MDAI could serve as drug with medicinal properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Verena Angerer
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Yasmin Schmid
- Psychopharmacology Research, Division of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Department of Biomedicine and Department of Clinical Research, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Florian Franz
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | | | | | | | | | - Armin Buchwald
- Institute for Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Simon D Brandt
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, UK
| | - Torsten Passie
- Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
- Dr. Senckenberg Institute for History and Ethics in Medicine, Goethe-University Frankfurt/Main, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Matthias E Liechti
- Psychopharmacology Research, Division of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Department of Biomedicine and Department of Clinical Research, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Volker Auwärter
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
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Gozdzialski L, Wallace B, Hore D. Point-of-care community drug checking technologies: an insider look at the scientific principles and practical considerations. Harm Reduct J 2023; 20:39. [PMID: 36966319 PMCID: PMC10039693 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-023-00764-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2022] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Drug checking is increasingly being explored outside of festivals and events to be an ongoing service within communities, frequently integrated within responses to illicit drug overdose. The choice of instrumentation is a common question, and the demands on these chemical analytical instruments can be challenging as illicit substances may be more complex and include highly potent ingredients at trace levels. The answer remains nuanced as the instruments themselves are not directly comparable nor are the local demands on the service, meaning implementation factors heavily influence the assessment and effectiveness of instruments. In this perspective, we provide a technical but accessible introduction to the background of a few common drug checking methods aimed at current and potential drug checking service providers. We discuss the following tools that have been used as part of the Vancouver Island Drug Checking Project in Victoria, Canada: immunoassay test strips, attenuated total reflection IR-absorption spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy from powder samples, surface-enhanced Raman scattering in a solution of colloidal gold nanoparticles, and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Using four different drug mixtures received and tested at the service, we illustrate the strengths, limitations, and capabilities of such instruments, and expose the scientific theory to give further insight into their analytical results. Each case study provides a walk-through-style analysis for a practical comparison between data from several different instruments acquired on the same sample. Ideally, a single instrument would be able to achieve all of the objectives of drug checking. However, there is no clear instrument that ticks every box; low cost, portable, rapid, easy-to-use and provides highly sensitive identification and accurate quantification. Multi-instrument approaches to drug checking may be required to effectively respond to increasingly complex and highly potent substances demanding trace level detection and the potential for quantification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lea Gozdzialski
- Department of Chemistry, University of Victoria, Victoria, V8W 3V6, Canada
| | - Bruce Wallace
- School of Social Work, University of Victoria, Victoria, V8W 2Y2, Canada
- Canadian Institute for Substance Use Research, University of Victoria, Victoria, V8W 2Y2, Canada
| | - Dennis Hore
- Department of Chemistry, University of Victoria, Victoria, V8W 3V6, Canada.
- Canadian Institute for Substance Use Research, University of Victoria, Victoria, V8W 2Y2, Canada.
- Department of Computer Science, University of Victoria, Victoria, V8W 3P6, Canada.
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Mullin A, Scott M, Vaccaro G, Gittins R, Ferla S, Schifano F, Guirguis A. Handheld Raman Spectroscopy in the First UK Home Office Licensed Pharmacist-Led Community Drug Checking Service. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:4793. [PMID: 36981705 PMCID: PMC10049009 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20064793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Revised: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Across the world, the interest in point-of-care drug checking as a harm-reduction intervention is growing. This is an attempt to improve intelligence about current drug trends and reduce drug-related morbidity and mortality. In the UK, drug-related harm is increasing exponentially year after year. As such, specialist community treatment services are exploring new methods to improve engagement with people who use drugs (PWUD), who may require support for their problematic drug use. This need has driven the requirement to pilot an on-site, time-responsive, readily available drug-checking service at point-of-support centres. In this study, we piloted the UK's first Home Office-licensed drug-checking service that was embedded into a community substance-misuse service and had all on-site analysis and harm-reduction interventions led and delivered by pharmacists. We report on the laboratory findings from the associated confirmatory analysis (UHPLC-MS, GC-MS, and 1H NMR) to assess the performance of the on-site hand-held Raman spectrometer and outline the challenges of providing real-time analysis of psychoactive substances in a clinical setting. Whilst acknowledging the limitation of the small sample size (n = 13), we demonstrate the potential suitability of using this technology for the purposes of screening substances in community-treatment services. Portability of equipment and timeliness of results are important and only very small samples may be provided by people who use the service. The challenges of accurately identifying substances from complex mixtures were equally found with both point-of-care Raman spectroscopy and laboratory confirmatory-analysis techniques. Further studies are required to confirm these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony Mullin
- Department of Clinical, Pharmaceutical and Biological Science, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield AL10 9AB, UK
| | - Mark Scott
- Department of Clinical, Pharmaceutical and Biological Science, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield AL10 9AB, UK
| | - Giorgia Vaccaro
- Department of Clinical, Pharmaceutical and Biological Science, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield AL10 9AB, UK
| | - Rosalind Gittins
- Clinical Department, WDP-Westminster Drug Project, 18 Dartmouth St., London SW1H 9BL, UK
| | - Salvatore Ferla
- Pharmacy, Medical School, The Grove Extension, Swansea University, Swansea SA2 8PP, UK
| | - Fabrizio Schifano
- Department of Clinical, Pharmaceutical and Biological Science, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield AL10 9AB, UK
| | - Amira Guirguis
- Department of Clinical, Pharmaceutical and Biological Science, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield AL10 9AB, UK
- Pharmacy, Medical School, The Grove Extension, Swansea University, Swansea SA2 8PP, UK
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Kranenburg RF, Ramaker HJ, van Asten AC. Portable near infrared spectroscopy for the isomeric differentiation of new psychoactive substances. Forensic Sci Int 2022; 341:111467. [PMID: 36154979 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2022.111467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2022] [Revised: 09/01/2022] [Accepted: 09/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Rapid and efficient identification of the precise isomeric form of new psychoactive substances (NPS) by forensic casework laboratories is a relevant challenge in the forensic field. Differences in legal status occur for ring-isomeric species of the same class, thus leading to different penalties and judicial control. Portable systems such as near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy recently emerged as suitable techniques for the on-scene identification of common drugs of abuse such as cocaine, MDMA and amphetamine. This way, the overall forensic process becomes more efficient as relevant information on substance identity becomes available directly at the scene of crime. Currently, no NIR-based applications exist for the rapid, on-scene detection of NPS isomers. Herein, we present the differentiation of cathinone and phenethylamine-type NPS analogues based on their NIR spectrum recorded in 2 seconds on a portable 1350 - 2600 nm spectrometer. A prior developed data analysis model was found suitable for the identification of the methylmethcathinone (MMC) isomers 2-MMC, 3-MMC and 4-MMC. In 51 mixtures and 22 seized casework samples, the correct isomeric form was detected in all cases except for a few mixtures with an active ingredient content of 10 wt%. These results show the feasibility of on-site NPS detection as presumptive test performed directly at the scene of crime with a small size NIR-spectrometer. Additionally, in the illicit drug analysis laboratory the combination of NIR and GC-MS analysis might be suitable for robust identification of NPS isomers and analogues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruben F Kranenburg
- Dutch National Police, Unit Amsterdam, Forensic Laboratory, Kabelweg 25, Amsterdam 1014 BA, the Netherlands; Van 't Hoff Institute for Molecular Sciences, University of Amsterdam, Postbus 94157, Amsterdam 1090 GD, the Netherlands.
| | - Henk-Jan Ramaker
- TIPb, Koningin Wilhelminaplein 30, Amsterdam 1062 KR, the Netherlands
| | - Arian C van Asten
- Van 't Hoff Institute for Molecular Sciences, University of Amsterdam, Postbus 94157, Amsterdam 1090 GD, the Netherlands; Co van Ledden Hulsebosch Center (CLHC), Amsterdam Center for Forensic Science and Medicine, Postbus 94157, Amsterdam 1090 GD, the Netherlands
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Kranenburg RF, Ou F, Sevo P, Petruzzella M, de Ridder R, van Klinken A, Hakkel KD, van Elst DM, van Veldhoven R, Pagliano F, van Asten AC, Fiore A. On-site illicit-drug detection with an integrated near-infrared spectral sensor: A proof of concept. Talanta 2022; 245:123441. [DOI: 10.1016/j.talanta.2022.123441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2022] [Revised: 03/24/2022] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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Porcu S, Tuveri E, Palanca M, Melis C, La Franca IM, Satta J, Chiriu D, Carbonaro CM, Cortis P, De Agostini A, Ricci PC. Rapid In Situ Detection of THC and CBD in Cannabis sativa L. by 1064 nm Raman Spectroscopy. Anal Chem 2022; 94:10435-10442. [PMID: 35848818 PMCID: PMC9330313 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.2c01629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
![]()
The need to find a rapid and worthwhile technique for
the in situ
detection of the content of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and
cannabidiol (CBD) in Cannabis sativa L. is an ever-increasing problem in the forensic field. Among all
the techniques for the detection of cannabinoids, Raman spectroscopy
can be identified as the most cost-effective, fast, noninvasive, and
nondestructive. In this study, 42 different samples were analyzed
using Raman spectroscopy with 1064 nm excitation wavelength. The use
of an IR wavelength laser showed the possibility to clearly identify
THC and CBD in fresh samples, without any further processing, knocking
out the contribution of the fluorescence generated by visible and
near-IR sources. The results allow assigning all the Raman features
in THC- and CBD-rich natural samples. The multivariate analysis underlines
the high reproducibility of the spectra and the possibility to distinguish
immediately the Raman spectra of the two cannabinoid species. Furthermore,
the ratio between the Raman bands at 1295/1440 and 1623/1663 cm–1 is identified as an immediate test parameter to evaluate
the THC content in the samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefania Porcu
- Department of Physics, University of Cagliari, S.p. no. 8 Km 0700, 09042 Monserrato, CA, Italy
| | - Enrica Tuveri
- Scientific Investigation Department (RIS) of Cagliari, Via Ludovico Ariosto, 24, 09129 Cagliari, CA, Italy
| | - Marco Palanca
- Scientific Investigation Department (RIS) of Cagliari, Via Ludovico Ariosto, 24, 09129 Cagliari, CA, Italy
| | - Claudia Melis
- Scientific Investigation Department (RIS) of Cagliari, Via Ludovico Ariosto, 24, 09129 Cagliari, CA, Italy
| | | | - Jessica Satta
- Department of Physics, University of Cagliari, S.p. no. 8 Km 0700, 09042 Monserrato, CA, Italy
| | - Daniele Chiriu
- Department of Physics, University of Cagliari, S.p. no. 8 Km 0700, 09042 Monserrato, CA, Italy
| | - Carlo Maria Carbonaro
- Department of Physics, University of Cagliari, S.p. no. 8 Km 0700, 09042 Monserrato, CA, Italy
| | - Pierluigi Cortis
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Cagliari, Via Sant'Ignazio 13, 09123 Cagliari, CA, Italy
| | - Antonio De Agostini
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Cagliari, Via Sant'Ignazio 13, 09123 Cagliari, CA, Italy
| | - Pier Carlo Ricci
- Department of Physics, University of Cagliari, S.p. no. 8 Km 0700, 09042 Monserrato, CA, Italy
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Kimani MM, Smith SW, Lanzarotta A, Brueggemeyer JL, Batson JS. Screening suspect pharmaceuticals for illicit designer benzodiazepines using raman, SERS, and FT-IR prior to comprehensive analysis using LC-MS. Forensic Sci Int 2022; 338:111390. [PMID: 35870307 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2022.111390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2022] [Revised: 07/11/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The emergence of illicit designer benzodiazepines with high dependency and no approved clinical use are of great US public health concern. Due to the increasing numbers of illicit designer benzodiazepines encountered in the US supply chain, there is a need to develop robust analytical methods that can rapidly detect these chemicals. Suspect counterfeit tablets, powders, or liquid formulations were first screened using Raman spectroscopy and surface-enhanced Raman scattering spectroscopy (SERS) for the presence of legal or illicit benzodiazepines, and then further analyzed using Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy and liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometric detection (LC-MS). Several microextraction procedures were developed and used to extract benzodiazepines from samples prior to SERS, FT-IR, and LC-MS analysis. Conventional Raman analyses using handheld Raman spectrometers afforded the ability to examine samples through enclosed plastic bags but were only able to detect high concentrations of various benzodiazepines in the suspect samples. The developed SERS methods were sufficient for detecting at least one benzodiazepine in the low-dose suspect samples, thereby allowing prioritization using other analytical tools that require more sample preparation and time-consuming analyses. The use of FT-IR spectroscopy coupled with extraction and spectral subtraction was found to be selective to multiple benzodiazepines and various excipients in the analyzed samples. This study demonstrated that the developed SERS and FT-IR procedures could be used in satellite laboratories to screen suspect packages at ports of entry and prioritize samples for additional laboratory-based analyses in an effort to prevent dangerous and illicit pharmaceutical products from reaching the US supply chain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin M Kimani
- US Food and Drug Administration, Office of Regulatory Affairs, Office of Regulatory Science, Forensic Chemistry Center, Cincinnati, OH 45237, USA.
| | - Skyler W Smith
- US Food and Drug Administration, Office of Regulatory Affairs, Office of Regulatory Science, Forensic Chemistry Center, Cincinnati, OH 45237, USA
| | - Adam Lanzarotta
- US Food and Drug Administration, Office of Regulatory Affairs, Office of Regulatory Science, Forensic Chemistry Center, Cincinnati, OH 45237, USA
| | - Jana L Brueggemeyer
- US Food and Drug Administration, Office of Regulatory Affairs, Office of Regulatory Science, Forensic Chemistry Center, Cincinnati, OH 45237, USA
| | - JaCinta S Batson
- US Food and Drug Administration, Office of Regulatory Affairs, Office of Regulatory Science, Forensic Chemistry Center, Cincinnati, OH 45237, USA
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Compounding Tailored Veterinary Chewable Tablets Close to the Point-of-Care by Means of 3D Printing. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14071339. [PMID: 35890235 PMCID: PMC9315874 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14071339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2022] [Revised: 06/21/2022] [Accepted: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Certain patient populations receive insufficient medicinal treatment due to a lack of commercially available products. The number of approved veterinary products is limited, making animals a patient population with suboptimal medicinal treatments available. To answer to this unmet need, compounding and off-label use of human-marketed products are practiced. Both of which have a significant risk of preparation errors. Hence, there is a dire demand to find and implement a more automated approach to the accurate, precise, and rapid production of veterinary dosage forms close to the point-of-care. This study aimed to assess the use of semi-solid extrusion-based 3D printing for the preparation of tailored doses of theophylline in the form of a chewable dosage form suitable for veterinary use. This study proved that semi-solid extrusion-based 3D printing could successfully be utilized to manufacture pet-friendly, chewable theophylline-loaded tablets. The prepared dosage forms showed a high correlation (R2 = 0.9973) between the designed size and obtained drug amount and met the USP and Ph. Eur. content uniformity criteria. Furthermore, the stability study showed the dosage form being stable and able to be used for up to three months after printing.
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Van Echelpoel R, Kranenburg RF, van Asten AC, De Wael K. Electrochemical detection of MDMA and 2C-B in ecstasy tablets using a selectivity enhancement strategy by in-situ derivatization. Forensic Chem 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.forc.2021.100383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
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Kranenburg RF, Ramaker H, Sap S, Asten AC. A Calibration Friendly Approach to Identify Drugs of Abuse Mixtures with a Portable Near‐Infrared Analyzer. Drug Test Anal 2022; 14:1089-1101. [PMID: 35098685 PMCID: PMC9305489 DOI: 10.1002/dta.3231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2021] [Revised: 01/23/2022] [Accepted: 01/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Both the increasing number and diversity of illicit‐drug seizures complicate forensic drug identification. Traditionally, colorimetric tests are performed on‐site, followed by transport to a laboratory for confirmatory analysis. Higher caseloads increase laboratory workload and associated transport and chain‐of‐evidence assurance performed by police officers. Colorimetric tests are specific only for a small set of drugs. The rise of new psychoactive substances therefore introduces risks for erroneous results. Near‐infrared (NIR)‐based analyzers may overcome these encumbrances by their compound‐specific spectral selectivity and broad applicability. This work introduces a portable NIR analyzer that combines a broad wavelength range (1300–2600 nm) with a chemometric model developed specifically for forensic samples. The application requires only a limited set of reference spectra for time‐efficient model training. This calibration‐light approach thus eliminates the need of extensive training sets including mixtures. Performance was demonstrated with 520 casework samples resulting in a 99.6% true negative and 97.6% true positive rate for cocaine. Similar results were obtained for MDMA, methamphetamine, ketamine, and heroin. Additionally, 236 samples were analyzed by scanning directly through their plastic packaging. Also here, a >97% true positive rate was obtained. This allows for non‐invasive, operator‐safe chemical identification of potentially potent drugs of abuse. Our results demonstrate the applicability for multiple drug‐related substances. Ideally, the combination of this NIR approach with other portable techniques, such as Raman and IR spectroscopy and electrochemical tests, may eventually eliminate the need for subsequent laboratory analysis; therefore, saving tremendous resources in the overall forensic process of confirmatory illicit drug identification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruben F. Kranenburg
- Dutch National Police, Unit Amsterdam, Forensic Laboratory, Kabelweg 25 Amsterdam BA The Netherlands
- Van’t Hoff Institute for Molecular Sciences University of Amsterdam Amsterdam GD The Netherlands
| | | | - Sharon Sap
- Dutch Customs Laboratory, Kingsfordweg 1 Amsterdam GN The Netherlands
| | - Arian C. Asten
- Van’t Hoff Institute for Molecular Sciences University of Amsterdam Amsterdam GD The Netherlands
- Co van Ledden Hulsebosch Center (CLHC), Amsterdam Center for Forensic Science and Medicine, Postbus 94157 Amsterdam GD The Netherlands
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13
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Li C, Han D, Wu Z, Liang Z, Han F, Chen K, Fu W, Han D, Wang Y, Niu L. Polydopamine-based molecularly imprinted electrochemical sensor for the highly selective determination of ecstasy components. Analyst 2022; 147:3291-3297. [DOI: 10.1039/d2an00351a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
An electrochemical sensor based on molecularly imprinted polydopamine (MIP@PDA) for detecting the main components of ecstasy, MDA and MDMA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Li
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Sensing Materials & Devices, Center for Advanced Analytical Science, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, c/o School of Civil Engineering, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou 510006, PR China
| | - Dongfang Han
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Sensing Materials & Devices, Center for Advanced Analytical Science, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, c/o School of Civil Engineering, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou 510006, PR China
| | - Zhifang Wu
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Sensing Materials & Devices, Center for Advanced Analytical Science, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, c/o School of Civil Engineering, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou 510006, PR China
| | - Zhishan Liang
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Sensing Materials & Devices, Center for Advanced Analytical Science, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, c/o School of Civil Engineering, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou 510006, PR China
| | - Fangjie Han
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Sensing Materials & Devices, Center for Advanced Analytical Science, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, c/o School of Civil Engineering, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou 510006, PR China
| | - Ke Chen
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Sensing Materials & Devices, Center for Advanced Analytical Science, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, c/o School of Civil Engineering, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou 510006, PR China
| | - Wencai Fu
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Sensing Materials & Devices, Center for Advanced Analytical Science, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, c/o School of Civil Engineering, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou 510006, PR China
| | - Dongxue Han
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Sensing Materials & Devices, Center for Advanced Analytical Science, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, c/o School of Civil Engineering, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou 510006, PR China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Psychoactive Substances Monitoring and Safety, Anti-Drug Technology Center of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou 510230, PR China
| | - Yukai Wang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Psychoactive Substances Monitoring and Safety, Anti-Drug Technology Center of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou 510230, PR China
| | - Li Niu
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Sensing Materials & Devices, Center for Advanced Analytical Science, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, c/o School of Civil Engineering, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou 510006, PR China
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14
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Evans-Nguyen K, Stelmack AR, Clowser PC, Holtz JM, Mulligan CC. FIELDABLE MASS SPECTROMETRY FOR FORENSIC SCIENCE, HOMELAND SECURITY, AND DEFENSE APPLICATIONS. MASS SPECTROMETRY REVIEWS 2021; 40:628-646. [PMID: 32722885 DOI: 10.1002/mas.21646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2019] [Accepted: 02/24/2020] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Mass spectrometry is commonly used in forensic chemistry laboratories for sensitive, definitive analysis. There have been significant efforts to bring mass spectrometry analysis on-site through the development of ruggedized, fieldable instruments. Testing samples in the field is of particular interest in forensic science, homeland security, and defense applications. In forensic chemistry, testing seized drugs in the field can significantly improve efficiencies in processing of related criminal cases. The screening of passengers and luggage at transportation hubs is a critical need for homeland security for which mass spectrometry is well suited to provide definitive answers with low false positive rates. Mass spectrometry can yield reliable data for military personnel testing sites for potential chemical weapons release. To meet the needs of the forensic and security communities fieldable mass spectrometers based on membrane inlet systems and hybrid gas chromatography systems have been developed and commercialized. More recently developed ambient ionization mass spectrometry methods can eliminate the time, equipment, and expertise associated with sample preparation, and so are especially appealing for on-site analysis. We describe the development of fieldable mass spectrometry systems, with emphasis on commercially available systems that have been deployed for on-site analysis of seized drugs, chemical warfare agents, explosives, and other analytes of interest to the forensic and security communities. © 2020 John Wiley & Sons Ltd. Mass Spec Rev.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenyon Evans-Nguyen
- Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Physics, University of Tampa, Tampa, FL
| | | | | | - Jessica M Holtz
- Department of Chemistry, Illinois State University, Normal, IL
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15
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Kranenburg RF, Verduin J, de Ridder R, Weesepoel Y, Alewijn M, Heerschop M, Keizers PH, van Esch A, van Asten AC. Performance evaluation of handheld Raman spectroscopy for cocaine detection in forensic case samples. Drug Test Anal 2021; 13:1054-1067. [PMID: 33354929 PMCID: PMC8248000 DOI: 10.1002/dta.2993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2020] [Revised: 12/18/2020] [Accepted: 12/20/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Handheld Raman spectroscopy is an emerging technique for rapid on-site detection of drugs of abuse. Most devices are developed for on-scene operation with a user interface that only shows whether cocaine has been detected. Extensive validation studies are unavailable, and so are typically the insight in raw spectral data and the identification criteria. This work evaluates the performance of a commercial handheld Raman spectrometer for cocaine detection based on (i) its performance on 0-100 wt% binary cocaine mixtures, (ii) retrospective comparison of 3,168 case samples from 2015 to 2020 analyzed by both gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and Raman, (iii) assessment of spectral selectivity, and (iv) comparison of the instrument's on-screen results with combined partial least square regression (PLS-R) and discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) models. The limit of detection was dependent on sample composition and varied between 10 wt% and 40 wt% cocaine. Because the average cocaine content in street samples is well above this limit, a 97.5% true positive rate was observed in case samples. No cocaine false positives were reported, although 12.5% of the negative samples were initially reported as inconclusive by the built-in software. The spectral assessment showed high selectivity for Raman peaks at 1,712 (cocaine base) and 1,716 cm-1 (cocaine HCl). Combined PLS-R and PLS-DA models using these features confirmed and further improved instrument performance. This study scientifically assessed the performance of a commercial Raman spectrometer, providing useful insight on its applicability for both presumptive detection and legally valid evidence of cocaine presence for law enforcement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruben F. Kranenburg
- Forensic LaboratoryDutch National Police, Unit AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
- Van't Hoff Institute for Molecular SciencesUniversity of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Joshka Verduin
- Forensic LaboratoryDutch National Police, Unit AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
- Van't Hoff Institute for Molecular SciencesUniversity of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Renee de Ridder
- Forensic LaboratoryDutch National Police, Unit AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Yannick Weesepoel
- Wageningen Food Safety ResearchWageningen University and ResearchWageningenThe Netherlands
| | - Martin Alewijn
- Wageningen Food Safety ResearchWageningen University and ResearchWageningenThe Netherlands
| | | | - Peter H.J. Keizers
- National Institute of Public Health and the Environment (RIVM)BilthovenThe Netherlands
| | | | - Arian C. van Asten
- Van't Hoff Institute for Molecular SciencesUniversity of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
- Co van Ledden Hulsebosch Center (CLHC), Amsterdam Center for Forensic Science and MedicineAmsterdamThe Netherlands
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16
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MDPV "high-responder" rats also self-administer more oxycodone than their "low-responder" counterparts under a fixed ratio schedule of reinforcement. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2021; 238:1183-1192. [PMID: 33484299 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-021-05764-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2020] [Accepted: 01/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
RATIONALE Oxycodone is one of the most commonly prescribed and most frequently abused opioid analgesics, yet little is known regarding individual vulnerabilities to oxycodone abuse. The synthetic cathinone 3,4-methylenedioxypyrovalerone (MDPV) has been shown to produce a "high-responder" phenotype characterized by increased drug intake and responding during periods of signaled drug unavailability (e.g., during post-infusion timeouts) in ~ 40% of male Sprague-Dawley rats. This phenotype also transfers to other psychostimulants (e.g., cocaine and methamphetamine), but it is unknown whether this phenotype transfers to other (non-stimulant) drugs of abuse. OBJECTIVES The present study aimed to (1) reestablish the "high-responder" phenotype in male Sprague-Dawley rats (n = 11) that acquired self-administration of MDPV (0.032 mg/kg/inf) on a fixed ratio 1 (FR1) schedule of reinforcement and (2) compare full dose-response curves for MDPV and oxycodone self-administration under an FR5 schedule of reinforcement. RESULTS MDPV was ~ 3-fold more potent at maintaining peak levels of behavior and resulted in greater overall drug intake than oxycodone. High levels of timeout responding were noted in a subset of rats that acquired MDPV self-administration ("high-responders", n = 5), and the FR5 dose-response curve for MDPV was shifted upward for these rats relative to their "low-responder" (n = 6) counterparts. "High-responders" also self-administered more infusions of oxycodone under an FR5 schedule of reinforcement than "low-responders"; however, this was not coupled with increased levels of timeout responding. CONCLUSIONS The present data suggest that a subset of individuals with a history of using synthetic cathinones may be particularly vulnerable to the abuse of oxycodone.
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Gonçalves JL, Alves VL, Aguiar J, Caldeira MJ, Teixeira HM, Câmara JS. Structure Assignment of Seized Products Containing Cathinone Derivatives Using High Resolution Analytical Techniques. Metabolites 2021; 11:144. [PMID: 33673683 PMCID: PMC7997216 DOI: 10.3390/metabo11030144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2021] [Revised: 02/22/2021] [Accepted: 02/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The innovation of the new psychoactive substances (NPS) market requires the rapid identification of new substances that can be a risk to public health, in order to reduce the damage from their use. Twelve seized products suspected to contain illicit substances were analyzed by attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR), gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (GC-MS), and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR). Synthetic cathinones (SCat) were found in all products, either as a single component or in mixtures. Infrared spectra of all products were consistent with the molecular structure of SCat, showing an intense absorption band at 1700-1674 cm-1, corresponding to the carbonyl stretching, a medium/strong peak at 1605-1580 cm-1, indicating stretching vibrations in the aromatic ring (C=C) and bands with relative low intensity at frequencies near 2700-2400 cm-1, corresponding to an amine salt. It was possible to identify a total of eight cathinone derivatives by GC-MS and NMR analysis: 4'-methyl-α-pyrrolidinohexanophenone (MPHP), α-pyrrolidinohexanophenone (α-PHP), 3-fluoromethcathinone (3-FMC), methedrone, methylone, buphedrone, N-ethylcathinone, and pentedrone. Among the adulterants found in these samples, caffeine was the most frequently detected substance, followed by ethylphenidate. These results highlight the prevalence of SCat in seized materials of the Portuguese market. Reference standards are usually required for confirmation, but when reference materials are not available, the combination of complementary techniques is fundamental for a rapid and an unequivocal identification of such substances.
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Affiliation(s)
- João L. Gonçalves
- CQM—Centro de Química da Madeira, Campus Universitário da Penteada, Universidade da Madeira, 9020-105 Funchal, Portugal; (V.L.A.); (J.A.)
| | - Vera L. Alves
- CQM—Centro de Química da Madeira, Campus Universitário da Penteada, Universidade da Madeira, 9020-105 Funchal, Portugal; (V.L.A.); (J.A.)
| | - Joselin Aguiar
- CQM—Centro de Química da Madeira, Campus Universitário da Penteada, Universidade da Madeira, 9020-105 Funchal, Portugal; (V.L.A.); (J.A.)
| | - Maria J. Caldeira
- Laboratório de Polícia Científica da Polícia Judiciária, Novo edifício-sede da Polícia Judiciária, Rua Gomes Freire, 1169-007 Lisboa, Portugal;
| | - Helena M. Teixeira
- Instituto Nacional de Medicina Legal e Ciências Forenses, I.P., Polo das Ciências de Saúde (Polo III), Azinhaga de Santa Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal;
- Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de Coimbra, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, Celas, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - José S. Câmara
- CQM—Centro de Química da Madeira, Campus Universitário da Penteada, Universidade da Madeira, 9020-105 Funchal, Portugal; (V.L.A.); (J.A.)
- Faculdade de Ciências Exatas e da Engenharia, Campus da Penteada, Universidade da Madeira, 9020-105 Funchal, Portugal
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18
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Rose AR, Staretz ME, Joshi M, Wood M, Brettell TA. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry of eight aminoindanes: 2-Aminoindane, N-methyl-2-, 5-methoxy-, 5-methoxy-6-methyl-, 4,5-methylenedioxy-, 5,6-methylenedioxy- and 5-iodo-2-aminoindane, and rasagiline. RAPID COMMUNICATIONS IN MASS SPECTROMETRY : RCM 2021; 35:e9207. [PMID: 34599535 DOI: 10.1002/rcm.9207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2021] [Revised: 09/29/2021] [Accepted: 10/01/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
RATIONALE Aminoindanes are one class of many new psychoactive substances that have emerged over the last decade. Analogues of 2-aminoindane (2-AI) are being encountered in crime laboratories and analytical data for most aminoindanes are limited. Interpretation and optimization of gas chromatography-mass spectrometry data will enhance reliability in characterizing aminoindanes. METHODS This study focuses on the electron ionization mass spectrometric fragmentation of eight aminoindane analogues and the gas chromatographic separation of these eight aminoindane analogues using four different column stationary phases, Rxi®-1Sil MS, Rxi®-5Sil MS, Rxi®-35Sil MS, and Rxi®-624Sil MS. Split injection (25:1) was utilized and each column had the same configuration (30 m × 25 mm × 0.25 μm), with the exception of the Rxi®-624Sil MS column (30 m × 25 mm ×1.4 μm). RESULTS Mass spectra showed strong molecular ions for all aminoindanes, except for rasagiline that produced a uniquely abundant [M - 1] ion. Other characteristic fragmentation that was present for all the aminoindanes included indane and indene ions (m/z 115-117), the tropylium ion (m/z 91), and subsequent loss of diene to produce smaller ions that followed: phenyl (m/z 77), cyclopentadienyl (m/z 65), cyclobutadienyl (m/z 51), and cyclopropenyl (m/z 39). CONCLUSIONS Separation of eight aminoindanes was optimized, and linear retention indices were determined for the compounds on four capillary columns. Based on the retention data, all eight aminoindanes were resolved on an Rxi®-624Sil MS column. Each aminoindane exhibited unique fragmentation ions in the mass spectra to distinguish between similar analogues. The results of this study will strengthen the analytical profiles of 2-AI and seven analogues, assisting forensic scientists in their analysis and identification of these substances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amber R Rose
- Forensic Science Program, Department of Chemical and Physical Sciences, Cedar Crest College, Allentown, PA, USA
| | - Marianne E Staretz
- Forensic Science Program, Department of Chemical and Physical Sciences, Cedar Crest College, Allentown, PA, USA
| | - Monica Joshi
- Department of Chemistry, West Chester University, West Chester, PA, USA
| | - Matthew Wood
- Ocean County Sheriff's Department, Toms River, NJ, USA
| | - Thomas A Brettell
- Forensic Science Program, Department of Chemical and Physical Sciences, Cedar Crest College, Allentown, PA, USA
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19
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Liu CM, He HY, Xu L, Hua ZD. New qualitative analysis strategy for illicit drugs using Raman spectroscopy and characteristic peaks method. Drug Test Anal 2020; 13:720-728. [PMID: 33142047 DOI: 10.1002/dta.2963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2020] [Revised: 10/30/2020] [Accepted: 10/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Performing fast qualitative identification of seized illegal drugs by Raman spectroscopy is challenging due to fluorescence interference as well as chemical complexity. Spectrometers with 785-nm excitation, 1,064-nm excitation, and sequentially shifted excitation (SSE) were compared for their effect on fluorescence reduction. The characteristic peaks method, which is independent of cutting agents, was tested as a new strategy to broaden the application of the Raman technique. The suitability of the characteristic peaks method was fully examined by analyzing a large amount of seized illegal drugs, including 72 methamphetamine hydrochloride (concentration range of 13.9%-99.4%), 68 ketamine hydrochloride (17.7%-99.8%), 176 heroin hydrochloride (5.2%-79.5%), 51 cocaine hydrochloride (21.1%-94.5%), and 33 cocaine base (30.9%-92.5%) samples. The results showed that seized methamphetamine, ketamine, and cocaine samples had no or little fluorescence. Hence, in regard to detection of these samples, the advantage of using 1,064-nm excitation and SSE compared with 785-nm excitation was quite limited. Regarding the heroin samples, a significant improvement of the "high" confident positive detected rate was evident for 1,064 nm excitation (60.8%) and SSE (61.4%), compared with 785-nm excitation (13.1%). However, it was also seen that even if 1,064-nm excitation and SSE were applied, the fluorescence of heroin samples was still unable to be fully overcome. By using the characteristic peaks method, low LOD results of 5%-20% were acquired for 40 types of drug mixtures, and lower LODs were obtained for the 60% of the drug mixtures compared with library searching method. Raman spectroscopy in conjunction with the characteristic peaks method was shown to be fast, simple, accurate, and sensitive in the qualitative analysis of seized drug samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cui-Mei Liu
- Key Laboratory of Drug Monitoring and Control, Drug Intelligence and Forensic Center, Ministry of Public Security, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Hong-Yuan He
- College of Investigation, People's Public Security University of China, Beijing, 100038, China
| | - Lin Xu
- College of Investigation, People's Public Security University of China, Beijing, 100038, China
| | - Zhen-Dong Hua
- Key Laboratory of Drug Monitoring and Control, Drug Intelligence and Forensic Center, Ministry of Public Security, Beijing, 100193, China
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20
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Liu CM, Xu L, He HY, Jia W, Hua ZD. Discrimination of phenethylamine regioisomers and structural analogues by Raman spectroscopy. J Forensic Sci 2020; 66:365-374. [PMID: 32986857 DOI: 10.1111/1556-4029.14563] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2020] [Revised: 08/04/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
In this study, the Raman spectra of 21 phenethylamines were obtained using far-red excitation (785 nm). The distinguishing ability of Raman for phenethylamines, especially for phenethylamine regioisomers and structural analogues, was investigated. Here, the evaluation of a cross section of Raman spectra demonstrated that all types of phenethylamines were distinguishable, even for certain structural analogues with high spectrum similarity. Raman exhibited high distinguishing ability for phenethylamine regioisomers that differ in the substitution position of halogen, methoxy, alkyl, or other substituted groups; as well as for structural analogues containing different groups, such as furanyl, 2,3-dihydrofuranyl, halogen, and alkyl substituted at the same position. The Raman spectra for homologues with differences in only a methyl group were found to be highly similar; however, their spectra demonstrated small but detectable differences. Four analogue mixtures and 59 seized samples were also analyzed to study the practical use of the Raman method in forensic field. 95% of the seized samples were correctly identified, which significantly validated the ability of Raman method in identifying the correct isomers. Accordingly, this study provides a non-destructive, high-throughput and minimal sample preparation technique for the discrimination of phenethylamines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cui-Mei Liu
- Key Laboratory of Drug Monitoring and Control, Drug Intelligence and Forensic Center, Ministry of Public Security, Beijing, China
| | - Lin Xu
- College of Forensic Science, People's Public Security University of China, Beijing, China
| | - Hong-Yuan He
- College of Forensic Science, People's Public Security University of China, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Jia
- Key Laboratory of Drug Monitoring and Control, Drug Intelligence and Forensic Center, Ministry of Public Security, Beijing, China
| | - Zhen-Dong Hua
- Key Laboratory of Drug Monitoring and Control, Drug Intelligence and Forensic Center, Ministry of Public Security, Beijing, China
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21
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Kranenburg RF, Verduin J, Weesepoel Y, Alewijn M, Heerschop M, Koomen G, Keizers P, Bakker F, Wallace F, van Esch A, Hulsbergen A, van Asten AC. Rapid and robust on-scene detection of cocaine in street samples using a handheld near-infrared spectrometer and machine learning algorithms. Drug Test Anal 2020; 12:1404-1418. [PMID: 32638519 PMCID: PMC7590077 DOI: 10.1002/dta.2895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2020] [Revised: 07/03/2020] [Accepted: 07/06/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
On‐scene drug detection is an increasingly significant challenge due to the fast‐changing drug market as well as the risk of exposure to potent drug substances. Conventional colorimetric cocaine tests involve handling of the unknown material and are prone to false‐positive reactions on common pharmaceuticals used as cutting agents. This study demonstrates the novel application of 740–1070 nm small‐wavelength‐range near‐infrared (NIR) spectroscopy to confidently detect cocaine in case samples. Multistage machine learning algorithms are used to exploit the limited spectral features and predict not only the presence of cocaine but also the concentration and sample composition. A model based on more than 10,000 spectra from case samples yielded 97% true‐positive and 98% true‐negative results. The practical applicability is shown in more than 100 case samples not included in the model design. One of the most exciting aspects of this on‐scene approach is that the model can almost instantly adapt to changes in the illicit‐drug market by updating metadata with results from subsequent confirmatory laboratory analyses. These results demonstrate that advanced machine learning strategies applied on limited‐range NIR spectra from economic handheld sensors can be a valuable procedure for rapid on‐site detection of illicit substances by investigating officers. In addition to forensics, this interesting approach could be beneficial for screening and classification applications in the pharmaceutical, food‐safety, and environmental domains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruben F Kranenburg
- Dutch National Police, Unit Amsterdam, Forensic Laboratory, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.,Van't Hoff Institute for Molecular Sciences, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Joshka Verduin
- Dutch National Police, Unit Amsterdam, Forensic Laboratory, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.,Van't Hoff Institute for Molecular Sciences, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Yannick Weesepoel
- Wageningen Food Safety Research part of Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, the Netherlands
| | - Martin Alewijn
- Wageningen Food Safety Research part of Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, the Netherlands
| | | | - Ger Koomen
- Dutch Customs Laboratory, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Peter Keizers
- National Institute of Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Bilthoven, the Netherlands
| | - Frank Bakker
- National Institute of Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Bilthoven, the Netherlands
| | - Fionn Wallace
- Netherlands Forensic Institute (NFI), Den Haag, the Netherlands
| | | | | | - Arian C van Asten
- Van't Hoff Institute for Molecular Sciences, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.,Co van Ledden Hulsebosch Center (CLHC), Amsterdam Center for Forensic Science and Medicine, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
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22
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Guirguis A, Gittins R, Schifano F. Piloting the UK's First Home-Office-Licensed Pharmacist-Led Drug Checking Service at a Community Substance Misuse Service. Behav Sci (Basel) 2020; 10:E121. [PMID: 32722508 PMCID: PMC7465824 DOI: 10.3390/bs10080121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2020] [Revised: 07/12/2020] [Accepted: 07/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
(1) Introduction: Drug-related deaths in the UK are at concerning high levels. The unknown content and purity of illicit substances can cause unpredictable adverse effects and thus a public health risk with no sign of abating. On-site drug checking is a public health strategy that has previously been implemented, predominantly in festival settings, but without Home Office licensing. (2) Aims: The aim of this study was to pilot the UK's first pharmacist-led, Home Office-licensed community drug checking service. (3) Methods: A bespoke protocol incorporating legally, professionally and ethically binding documents was implemented. This free, confidential service ran between February and March 2019, was available to anyone over 18 who were purposefully recruited, gave informed consent and agreed to relinquish their drug sample. Samples were checked on-site within an established Substance Misuse Service (SMS) using a handheld Raman spectrometer to determine likely drug content and adulterants. In parallel, participants completed a questionnaire about their substance use and the drug sample(s) being tested. A pharmacist-led multidisciplinary approach was adopted to discuss the analytical findings. Informed by the results of the analysis and the questionnaire, people who used the service received tailored harm reduction advice. (4) Results and Discussion: The pilot operated for a total of four days over four weeks. Eleven people visited and relinquished a total of thirteen samples. Half of the participants had previously overdosed and were known to the SMS. Seventy per cent were male, all were White British individuals, 30% were employed and two people disclosed visiting from another nearby town. Samples included what was thought to be heroin, synthetic cannabinoids, stimulants, benzodiazepines and LSD and none required activation of the "alerts cascade" process. Most participants drank alcohol regularly and the concomitant use of traditional illicit drugs and prescribed medication (including opioids, anxiolytics and antidepressants) with sedating profiles was common. Given some of the ethical decisions and interpretation of the results, specialist pharmacist involvement was deemed essential. (5) Conclusions: This pilot demonstrated the proof-of-concept that a pharmacist-led Home Office-licensed drug checking service can be successfully implemented in community SMSs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amira Guirguis
- Swansea University Medical School, Institute of Life Sciences, Swansea University, Swansea SA2-8PP, Wales, UK
- Psychopharmacology, Drug Misuse and Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield AL10-9AB, UK;
| | - Rosalind Gittins
- Humankind Charity, Inspiration House, Unit 22, Bowburn North Industrial Estate, Durham DH6 5PF, UK
| | - Fabrizio Schifano
- Psychopharmacology, Drug Misuse and Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield AL10-9AB, UK;
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Metternich S, Fischmann S, Münster-Müller S, Pütz M, Westphal F, Schönberger T, Lyczkowski M, Zörntlein S, Huhn C. Discrimination of synthetic cannabinoids in herbal matrices and of cathinone derivatives by portable and laboratory-based Raman spectroscopy. Forensic Chem 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.forc.2020.100241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
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Quinn M, Brettell T, Joshi M, Bonetti J, Quarino L. Identifying PCP and four PCP analogs using the gold chloride microcrystalline test followed by raman microspectroscopy and chemometrics. Forensic Sci Int 2020; 307:110135. [DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2019.110135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2019] [Revised: 12/16/2019] [Accepted: 12/20/2019] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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Lanzarotta A, Witkowski M, Batson J. Identification of Opioids and Related Substances using Handheld Raman Spectrometers. J Forensic Sci 2019; 65:421-427. [PMID: 31643087 DOI: 10.1111/1556-4029.14217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2019] [Revised: 09/10/2019] [Accepted: 09/30/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
This study describes the performance of handheld Raman devices for detecting one hundred opioids and related substances including fentanyl and several analogs. Using a single "parent" device, signatures (spectra) with excellent signal-to-noise ratios were generated using <5 mg of most compounds. The signatures were added to a method (library), which was electronically transferred to three "daughter" devices. The devices were able to discriminate different salt forms and isomers. On average, the daughter devices yielded a true-positive rate of 97.3% for generating an alarm for opioids and were 93.3% effective for correctly identifying the opioid. The devices yielded true-negative, false-positive and false-negative rates of 100%, 0%, and 2.7%, respectively, where false negatives were due to weak signal and fluorescence. These data demonstrate that the parent-daughter electronic transfer method was successful and effective, which permits the ability to develop methods in the laboratory that can be seamlessly pushed out to field devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam Lanzarotta
- Forensic Chemistry Center, Office of Regulatory Science, Office of Regulatory Affairs, U.S. Food & Drug Administration, Cincinnati, OH, 45237
| | - Mark Witkowski
- Forensic Chemistry Center, Office of Regulatory Science, Office of Regulatory Affairs, U.S. Food & Drug Administration, Cincinnati, OH, 45237
| | - JaCinta Batson
- Forensic Chemistry Center, Office of Regulatory Science, Office of Regulatory Affairs, U.S. Food & Drug Administration, Cincinnati, OH, 45237
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Yen YT, Chen TY, Chen CY, Chang CL, Chyueh SC, Chang HT. A Photoluminescent Colorimetric Probe of Bovine Serum Albumin-Stabilized Gold Nanoclusters for New Psychoactive Substances: Cathinone Drugs in Seized Street Samples. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2019; 19:E3554. [PMID: 31443204 PMCID: PMC6721205 DOI: 10.3390/s19163554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2019] [Revised: 08/12/2019] [Accepted: 08/13/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Screening of illicit drugs for new psychoactive substances-namely cathinone-at crime scenes is in high demand. A dual-emission bovine serum albumin-stabilized gold nanoclusters probe was synthesized and used for quantitation and screening of 4-chloromethcathinone and cathinone analogues in an aqueous solution. The photoluminescent (PL) color of the bovine serum albumin-stabilized Au nanoclusters (BSA-Au NCs) probe solution changed from red to dark blue during the identification of cathinone drugs when excited using a portable ultraviolet light-emitting diodes lamp (365 nm). This probe solution allows the PL color-changing point and limit of detection down to 10.0 and 0.14 mM, respectively, for 4-chloromethcathinone. The phenomenon of PL color-changing of BSA-Au NCs was attributed to its PL band at 650 nm, quenching through an electron transfer mechanism. The probe solution was highly specific to cathinone drugs, over other popular illicit drugs, including heroin, cocaine, ketamine, and methamphetamine. The practicality of this BSA-Au NCs probe was assessed by using it to screen illicit drugs seized by law enforcement officers. All 20 actual cases from street and smuggling samples were validated using this BSA-Au NCs probe solution and then confirmed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The results reveal this BSA-Au NCs probe solution is practical for screening cathinone drugs at crime scenes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yao-Te Yen
- Department of Forensic Science, Ministry of Justice Investigation Bureau, Xindian District, New Taipei City 23149, Taiwan.
- Department of Chemistry, National Taiwan University, Taipei 10617, Taiwan.
| | - Ting-Yueh Chen
- Department of Forensic Science, Ministry of Justice Investigation Bureau, Xindian District, New Taipei City 23149, Taiwan
| | - Chun-Yu Chen
- Department of Chemistry, National Cheng-Kung University, Tainan 70101, Taiwan
| | - Chi-Lun Chang
- Department of Forensic Science, Ministry of Justice Investigation Bureau, Xindian District, New Taipei City 23149, Taiwan
| | - San-Chong Chyueh
- Department of Forensic Science, Ministry of Justice Investigation Bureau, Xindian District, New Taipei City 23149, Taiwan
| | - Huan-Tsung Chang
- Department of Chemistry, National Taiwan University, Taipei 10617, Taiwan
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Antonides LH, Brignall RM, Costello A, Ellison J, Firth SE, Gilbert N, Groom BJ, Hudson SJ, Hulme MC, Marron J, Pullen ZA, Robertson TBR, Schofield CJ, Williamson DC, Kemsley EK, Sutcliffe OB, Mewis RE. Rapid Identification of Novel Psychoactive and Other Controlled Substances Using Low-Field 1H NMR Spectroscopy. ACS OMEGA 2019; 4:7103-7112. [PMID: 31179411 PMCID: PMC6547625 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.9b00302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2019] [Accepted: 03/19/2019] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
An automated approach to the collection of 1H NMR (nuclear magnetic resonance) spectra using a benchtop NMR spectrometer and the subsequent analysis, processing, and elucidation of components present in seized drug samples are reported. An algorithm is developed to compare spectral data to a reference library of over 300 1H NMR spectra, ranking matches by a correlation-based score. A threshold for identification was set at 0.838, below which identification of the component present was deemed unreliable. Using this system, 432 samples were surveyed and validated against contemporaneously acquired GC-MS (gas chromatography-mass spectrometry) data. Following removal of samples which possessed no peaks in the GC-MS trace or in both the 1H NMR spectrum and GC-MS trace, the remaining 416 samples matched in 93% of cases. Thirteen of these samples were binary mixtures. A partial match (one component not identified) was obtained for 6% of samples surveyed whilst only 1% of samples did not match at all.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lysbeth H Antonides
- School of Science and the Environment, Division of Chemistry and Environmental Science, Manchester Metropolitan University, John Dalton Building, Chester Street, Manchester M1 5GD, U.K
| | - Rachel M Brignall
- Oxford Instruments, Tubney Woods, Abingdon, Oxfordshire OX13 5QX, U.K
| | - Andrew Costello
- Greater Manchester Police, Openshaw Complex, Lawton Street, Openshaw, Manchester M11 2NS, U.K
- MANchester DRug Analysis and Knowledge Exchange (MANDRAKE), Manchester Metropolitan University, John Dalton Building, Chester Street, Manchester M1 5GD, U.K
| | - Jamie Ellison
- School of Science and the Environment, Division of Chemistry and Environmental Science, Manchester Metropolitan University, John Dalton Building, Chester Street, Manchester M1 5GD, U.K
- Greater Manchester Police, Openshaw Complex, Lawton Street, Openshaw, Manchester M11 2NS, U.K
- MANchester DRug Analysis and Knowledge Exchange (MANDRAKE), Manchester Metropolitan University, John Dalton Building, Chester Street, Manchester M1 5GD, U.K
| | - Samuel E Firth
- School of Science and the Environment, Division of Chemistry and Environmental Science, Manchester Metropolitan University, John Dalton Building, Chester Street, Manchester M1 5GD, U.K
| | - Nicolas Gilbert
- School of Science and the Environment, Division of Chemistry and Environmental Science, Manchester Metropolitan University, John Dalton Building, Chester Street, Manchester M1 5GD, U.K
- MANchester DRug Analysis and Knowledge Exchange (MANDRAKE), Manchester Metropolitan University, John Dalton Building, Chester Street, Manchester M1 5GD, U.K
| | - Bethany J Groom
- School of Science and the Environment, Division of Chemistry and Environmental Science, Manchester Metropolitan University, John Dalton Building, Chester Street, Manchester M1 5GD, U.K
| | - Samuel J Hudson
- School of Science and the Environment, Division of Chemistry and Environmental Science, Manchester Metropolitan University, John Dalton Building, Chester Street, Manchester M1 5GD, U.K
| | - Matthew C Hulme
- School of Science and the Environment, Division of Chemistry and Environmental Science, Manchester Metropolitan University, John Dalton Building, Chester Street, Manchester M1 5GD, U.K
- MANchester DRug Analysis and Knowledge Exchange (MANDRAKE), Manchester Metropolitan University, John Dalton Building, Chester Street, Manchester M1 5GD, U.K
| | - Jack Marron
- School of Science and the Environment, Division of Chemistry and Environmental Science, Manchester Metropolitan University, John Dalton Building, Chester Street, Manchester M1 5GD, U.K
- MANchester DRug Analysis and Knowledge Exchange (MANDRAKE), Manchester Metropolitan University, John Dalton Building, Chester Street, Manchester M1 5GD, U.K
| | - Zoe A Pullen
- School of Science and the Environment, Division of Chemistry and Environmental Science, Manchester Metropolitan University, John Dalton Building, Chester Street, Manchester M1 5GD, U.K
| | - Thomas B R Robertson
- School of Science and the Environment, Division of Chemistry and Environmental Science, Manchester Metropolitan University, John Dalton Building, Chester Street, Manchester M1 5GD, U.K
| | - Christopher J Schofield
- Greater Manchester Police, Openshaw Complex, Lawton Street, Openshaw, Manchester M11 2NS, U.K
- MANchester DRug Analysis and Knowledge Exchange (MANDRAKE), Manchester Metropolitan University, John Dalton Building, Chester Street, Manchester M1 5GD, U.K
| | | | - E Kate Kemsley
- Quadram Institute Bioscience, Norwich Research Park, Norwich NR4 7UA, U.K
| | - Oliver B Sutcliffe
- School of Science and the Environment, Division of Chemistry and Environmental Science, Manchester Metropolitan University, John Dalton Building, Chester Street, Manchester M1 5GD, U.K
- MANchester DRug Analysis and Knowledge Exchange (MANDRAKE), Manchester Metropolitan University, John Dalton Building, Chester Street, Manchester M1 5GD, U.K
| | - Ryan E Mewis
- School of Science and the Environment, Division of Chemistry and Environmental Science, Manchester Metropolitan University, John Dalton Building, Chester Street, Manchester M1 5GD, U.K
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Zou Y, Chen H, Li Y, Yuan X, Zhao X, Chen W, Cao F, Cai N, Huang X, Yang F, Liu W. Synthesis of mesoporous-silica coated multi-branched gold nanoparticles for surface enhanced Raman scattering evaluation of 4-bromomethcathinone. JOURNAL OF SAUDI CHEMICAL SOCIETY 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jscs.2018.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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Schifano F, Chiappini S, Corkery JM, Guirguis A. Assessing the 2004-2018 Fentanyl Misusing Issues Reported to an International Range of Adverse Reporting Systems. Front Pharmacol 2019; 10:46. [PMID: 30774595 PMCID: PMC6367955 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2019.00046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2018] [Accepted: 01/14/2019] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective: A recent, global, increase in the use of opioids including the prescribing, highly potent, fentanyl has been recorded. Due its current popularity and the potential lethal consequences of its intake, we aimed here at analyzing the fentanyl misuse, abuse, dependence and withdrawal-related adverse drug reactions (ADRs) identified within the European Medicines Agency (EMA), the United Kingdom Yellow Card Scheme (YCS), and the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) databases. Methods: Descriptive analysis of both ADRs and related cases. Results: The analysis of fentanyl-related misuse, abuse, dependence and withdrawal cases reported during years 2004-2018 to the EMA, the YCS, and the FAERS showed increasing levels overtime, specifically, EMA-related data presented two peaks (e.g., in 2008 and 2015), whilst the FAERS dataset was characterized by a dramatic increase of the ADRs collected over the last 18 months, and particularly from 2016. Some 127,313 ADRs (referring to n = 6,161 patients/single cases) related to fentanyl's misuse/abuse/dependence/withdrawal issues were reported to EMA, with 14,287 being judged by the reporter as "suspect." The most represented ADRs were: "drug dependence "(76.87%), "intentional product misuse" (13.06%), and "drug abuse" (7.45%). Most cases involved adult males and the concomitant use of other prescribing/illicit drugs. A range of idiosyncratic (i.e., ingestion/injection of transdermal patches' fentanyl) and very high-dosage intake cases were here identified. Significant numbers of cases required either a prolonged hospitalization (192/559 = 34.35%) or resulted in death (185/559 = 33.09%). Within the same time frame, YCS collected some 3,566 misuse/abuse/dependence/withdrawal ADRs, corresponding to 1,165 single patients/cases, with those most frequently reported being "withdrawal," "intentional product misuse," and "overdose" ADRs. Finally, FAERS identified a total of 19,145 misuse/abuse/dependence/withdrawal-related cases, being "overdose," withdrawal, and "drug use disorder/drug abuse/drug diversion" the most represented ADRs (respectively, 43.11, 20.80, and 20.29%). Conclusion: Fentanyl abuse may be considered a public health issue with significant implications for clinical practice. Spontaneous pharmacovigilance reporting systems should be considered for mapping new trends of drug abuse.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Stefania Chiappini
- Psychopharmacology, Drug Misuse and Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, United Kingdom
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Gerace E, Seganti F, Luciano C, Lombardo T, Di Corcia D, Teifel H, Vincenti M, Salomone A. On-site identification of psychoactive drugs by portable Raman spectroscopy during drug-checking service in electronic music events. Drug Alcohol Rev 2019; 38:50-56. [PMID: 30614092 DOI: 10.1111/dar.12887] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2018] [Revised: 10/02/2018] [Accepted: 11/25/2018] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION AND AIMS Hundreds of new psychoactive substances (NPS) have burst into the marketplace, making both the scientific community and people who use drugs lacking of adequate information about their diffusion and effects. In this scenario, drug-checking services have been recently proposed to assist harm reduction policies and provide a global description of the circulating drugs. DESIGN AND METHODS The results obtained by a portable Raman spectroscopy device on 472 alleged drugs within the first formal implementation of drug checking in Italy, are reported. The testing was made through a plastic bag held by the applicant and containing the alleged drug. The substance identification was executed by comparison with a spectral library. RESULTS Illicit substances were detected in 304 samples. Findings included MDMA (106 samples), ketamine (87 samples), cocaine (51 samples), amphetamine (47 samples), methamphetamine (two samples), heroin (two samples) and NPS (nine samples). Two samples were identified as precursors of psychoactive substances. Identification of a non-controlled substance occurred in 38 samples. Output of inconclusive result was recorded from 128 samples tested on-site, from which the applicant allowed us to collect a small portion in 68 cases, for a delayed laboratory analysis by GC-MS or LC-MS/MS. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS Drug checking by Raman spectroscopy proved effective to identify psychoactive drugs including NPS and track the drug distribution in various recreational settings. The field testing activity revealed the presence of several NPS in the nightlife scenario, often in replacement of traditional illicit drugs, thus posing a high overdose risk and a life-threatening situation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enrico Gerace
- Regional Antidoping and Toxicology Center "A. Bertinaria", Turin, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Seganti
- Regional Antidoping and Toxicology Center "A. Bertinaria", Turin, Italy
| | - Clemente Luciano
- Regional Antidoping and Toxicology Center "A. Bertinaria", Turin, Italy
| | - Tonia Lombardo
- Regional Antidoping and Toxicology Center "A. Bertinaria", Turin, Italy
| | - Daniele Di Corcia
- Regional Antidoping and Toxicology Center "A. Bertinaria", Turin, Italy
| | | | - Marco Vincenti
- Regional Antidoping and Toxicology Center "A. Bertinaria", Turin, Italy.,Department of Chemistry, Universiy of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Alberto Salomone
- Regional Antidoping and Toxicology Center "A. Bertinaria", Turin, Italy.,Department of Chemistry, Universiy of Turin, Turin, Italy
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Guirguis A. New psychoactive substances: a public health issue. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHARMACY PRACTICE 2018; 25:323-325. [PMID: 28895252 DOI: 10.1111/ijpp.12313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Amira Guirguis
- Psychopharmacology, Drug Misuse and Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, and School of Life and Medical Sciences, Department of Pharmacy, Pharmacology and Postgraduate Medicine, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, UK
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Khandasammy SR, Fikiet MA, Mistek E, Ahmed Y, Halámková L, Bueno J, Lednev IK. Bloodstains, paintings, and drugs: Raman spectroscopy applications in forensic science. Forensic Chem 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.forc.2018.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
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Exploration of the Use of New Psychoactive Substances by Individuals in Treatment for Substance Misuse in the UK. Brain Sci 2018; 8:brainsci8040058. [PMID: 29601550 PMCID: PMC5924394 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci8040058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2018] [Revised: 03/27/2018] [Accepted: 03/28/2018] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Substance misuse services need to meet the growing demand and needs of individuals using new psychoactive substances (NPS). A review of the literature identified a paucity of research regarding NPS use by these individuals and UK guidelines outline the need for locally tailored strategies. The purpose of this qualitative study was to identify and explore key themes in relation to the use of NPS by individuals receiving community treatment for their substance use. Electronic records identified demographics and semi-structured interviews were undertaken. A thematic analysis of transcripts identified a variety of substance use histories; 50% were prescribed opiate substitutes and 25% used NPS as a primary substance. All were males, age range 26–59 years (SD = 9), who predominantly smoked cannabinoids and snorted/injected stimulant NPS. The type of NPS used was determined by affordability, availability, side-effect profile and desired effects (physical and psychological: 25% reported weight loss as motivation for their use). Poly-pharmacy, supplementation and displacement of other drugs were prevalent. In conclusion, NPS use and associated experiences vary widely among people receiving substance use treatment. Development of effective recovery pathways should be tailored to individuals, and include harm reduction strategies, psychosocial interventions, and effective signposting. Services should be vigilant for NPS use, “on top” use and diversion of prescriptions.
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Guillou C, Reniero F, Vicente JL, Holland M, Kolar K, Chassaigne H, Tirendi S, Schepers H. Collaboration of the Joint Research Centre and European Customs Laboratories for the Identification of New Psychoactive Substances. Curr Pharm Biotechnol 2018; 19:91-98. [PMID: 29792142 PMCID: PMC6110040 DOI: 10.2174/1389201019666180523122717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2018] [Revised: 02/14/2018] [Accepted: 04/20/2018] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The emergence of psychoactive designer drugs has significantly increased over the last few years. Customs officials are responsible for the control of products entering the European Union (EU) market. This control applies to chemicals in general, pharmaceutical products and medicines. Numerous products imported from non-EU countries, often declared as 'bath salts' or 'fertilizers', contain new psychoactive substance (NPS). REVIEW These are not necessarily controlled under international law, but may be subject to monitoring in agreement with EU legislation. This situation imposes substantial challenges, for example, for the maintenance of spectral libraries used for their detection by designated laboratories. The chemical identification of new substances, with the use of powerful instrumentation, and the time needed for detailed analysis and interpretation of the results, demands considerable commitment. The EU Joint Research Centre endeavors to provide scientific support to EU Customs laboratories to facilitate rapid identification and characterisation of seized samples. In addition to analysing known NPS, several new chemical entities have also been identified. Frequently, these belong to NPS classes already notified to the European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction (EMCDDA) by the European Early- Warning System (EWS). CONCLUSION The aim of this paper is to discuss the implementation of workflow mechanisms that are in place in order to facilitate the monitoring, communication and management of analytical data. The rapid dissemination of this information between control authorities strives to help protect EU citizens against the health risks posed by harmful substances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claude Guillou
- Address correspondence to this author at the European Commission, Directorate General Joint Research Centre, Directorate F - Health, Consumers and Reference Materials via E. Fermi, 2749, I-21020 Ispra (VA) - Italy; Tel: +39 0332 785678; E-mail:
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Calvo-Castro J, Guirguis A, Samaras EG, Zloh M, Kirton SB, Stair J. Detection of newly emerging psychoactive substances using Raman spectroscopy and chemometrics. RSC Adv 2018; 8:31924-31933. [PMID: 35547469 PMCID: PMC9085863 DOI: 10.1039/c8ra05847d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2018] [Accepted: 09/06/2018] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
A novel approach for the identification of New Psychoactive Substances (NPS) by means of Raman spectroscopy coupled with Principal Components Analysis (PCA) employing the largest dataset of NPS reference materials to date is reported here. Fifty three NPS were selected as a structurally diverse subset from an original dataset of 478 NPS compounds. The Raman spectral profiles were experimentally acquired for all 53 substances, evaluated using a number of pre-processing techniques, and used to generate a PCA model. The optimum model system used a relatively narrow spectral range (1300–1750 cm−1) and accounted for 37% of the variance in the dataset using the first three principal components, despite the large structural diversity inherent in the NPS subset. Nonetheless, structurally similar NPS (i.e., the synthetic cannabinoids FDU-PB-22 & NM-2201) grouped together in the PCA model based on their Raman spectral profiles, while NPS with different chemical scaffolds (i.e., the benzodiazepine flubromazolam and the cathinone α-PBT) were well delineated, occupying markedly different areas of the three-dimensional scores plot. Classification of NPS based on their Raman spectra (i.e., chemical scaffolds) using the PCA model was further investigated. NPS that were present in the initial dataset of 478 NPS but were not part of the selected 53 training set (validation set) were observed to be closely aligned to structurally similar NPS within the generated model system in all cases. Furthermore, NPS that were not present in the original dataset of 478 NPS (test set) were also shown to group as expected in the model (i.e., methamphetamine and N-ethylamphetamine). This indicates that, for the first time, a model system can be applied to potential ‘unknown’ psychoactive substances, which are new to the market and absent from existing chemical libraries, to identify key structural features to make a preliminary classification. Consequently, it is anticipated that this study will be of interest to the broad scientific audience working with large structurally diverse chemical datasets and particularly to law enforcement agencies and associated scientific analytical bodies worldwide investigating the development of novel identification methodologies for psychoactive substances. A novel approach for the identification of New Psychoactive Substances (NPS) by means of Raman spectroscopy coupled with Principal Components Analysis (PCA) employing the largest dataset of NPS reference materials to date is reported here.![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesus Calvo-Castro
- Department of Pharmacy
- Pharmacology and Postgraduate Medicine
- School of Life and Medical Sciences
- University of Hertfordshire
- Hatfield
| | - Amira Guirguis
- Department of Pharmacy
- Pharmacology and Postgraduate Medicine
- School of Life and Medical Sciences
- University of Hertfordshire
- Hatfield
| | - Eleftherios G. Samaras
- Department of Pharmacy
- Pharmacology and Postgraduate Medicine
- School of Life and Medical Sciences
- University of Hertfordshire
- Hatfield
| | - Mire Zloh
- Department of Pharmacy
- Pharmacology and Postgraduate Medicine
- School of Life and Medical Sciences
- University of Hertfordshire
- Hatfield
| | - Stewart B. Kirton
- Department of Pharmacy
- Pharmacology and Postgraduate Medicine
- School of Life and Medical Sciences
- University of Hertfordshire
- Hatfield
| | - Jacqueline L. Stair
- Department of Pharmacy
- Pharmacology and Postgraduate Medicine
- School of Life and Medical Sciences
- University of Hertfordshire
- Hatfield
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Guirguis A, Corkery JM, Stair JL, Kirton SB, Zloh M, Schifano F. Intended and unintended use of cathinone mixtures. Hum Psychopharmacol 2017; 32. [PMID: 28657191 DOI: 10.1002/hup.2598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2016] [Revised: 03/22/2017] [Accepted: 03/23/2017] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Cathinones are one of the most popular categories of new psychoactive substances (NPS) consumed. Cathinones have different pharmacological activities and receptor selectivity for monoamine transporters based on their chemical structures. They are incorporated into NPS mixtures and used with other NPS or 'traditional' drugs. Cathinone use represents significant health risks to individuals and is a public health burden. METHODS Evidence of poly-NPS use with cathinones, seizure information, and literature analyses results on NPS mixtures was systematically gathered from online database sources, including Google Scholar, Scopus, Bluelight, and Drugs-Forum. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION Results highlight the prevalence of NPS with low purity, incorporation of cathinones into NPS mixtures since 2008, and multiple members of the cathinone family being present in individual UK-seized samples. Cathinones were identified as adulterants in NPS marketed as being pure NPS, drugs of abuse, branded products, herbal blends, and products labelled "not for human consumption." Toxicity resulting from cathinone mixtures is unpredictable because key attributes remain largely unknown. Symptoms of intoxication include neuro-psychological, psychiatric, and metabolic symptoms. Proposed treatment includes holistic approaches involving psychosocial, psychiatric and pharmacological interventions. CONCLUSION Raising awareness of NPS, education, and training of health care professionals are paramount in reducing harms related to cathinone use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amira Guirguis
- School of Life and Medical Sciences, Department of Pharmacy, Pharmacology & Postgraduate Medicine, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, UK.,Psychopharmaology, Drug Misuse, & Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, UK
| | - John Martin Corkery
- School of Life and Medical Sciences, Department of Pharmacy, Pharmacology & Postgraduate Medicine, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, UK.,Psychopharmaology, Drug Misuse, & Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, UK
| | - Jacqueline Leslie Stair
- School of Life and Medical Sciences, Department of Pharmacy, Pharmacology & Postgraduate Medicine, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, UK.,Psychopharmaology, Drug Misuse, & Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, UK
| | - Stewart Brian Kirton
- School of Life and Medical Sciences, Department of Pharmacy, Pharmacology & Postgraduate Medicine, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, UK.,Psychopharmaology, Drug Misuse, & Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, UK
| | - Mire Zloh
- School of Life and Medical Sciences, Department of Pharmacy, Pharmacology & Postgraduate Medicine, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, UK.,Psychopharmaology, Drug Misuse, & Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, UK
| | - Fabrizio Schifano
- School of Life and Medical Sciences, Department of Pharmacy, Pharmacology & Postgraduate Medicine, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, UK.,Psychopharmaology, Drug Misuse, & Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, UK
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