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Antonio ADS, Wurzler GT, Bhering CDA, de Oliveira AS, Cohen LSDA, de Oliveira MAM, de Aquino Neto FR, Vanini G. Qualitative transformations of street-seized ecstasy over a decade: A case study in Rio de Janeiro (Brazil). J Forensic Sci 2024. [PMID: 38691107 DOI: 10.1111/1556-4029.15536] [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: 01/09/2024] [Revised: 03/24/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024]
Abstract
The illegal drug market is constantly evolving, with new drugs being created and existing ones being modified. Adulterants are often added to the mix, and the primary substance may be secretly replaced by a new one. Once-known tablets can now be vastly different from what they are sold as, all due to the pursuit of profit and evasion of current drug regulations. These alterations in drug composition pose a threat to society, as their effects are still not well understood. Therefore, it is crucial for police intelligence and public health development to obtain the chemical profiles of illicit drugs. This study presents the chemical fingerprinting of ecstasy tablets seized in the state of Rio de Janeiro (Brazil) between 2012 and 2021. The tablet samples were weighed, extracted, diluted with methanol, and acidified before analysis using gas chromatography high-resolution mass spectrometry and attenuated total reflection Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The major constituents found were MDMA and clobenzorex, with fewer occurrences of MDA, MDEA, and 2C-B. The results also indicate that the occurrence of mega-events in the study location impacted the chemical fingerprints of ecstasy. A total of 27 combinations of cutting agents, including caffeine, ephedrine, and anesthetics, were identified. Samples composed of clobenzorex were observed throughout the evaluated period in areas near highways, suggesting that this product is mainly used by truck drivers. These findings can help police intelligence units anticipate the behavior of the illicit market during major events, identify traffic routes, and support public health initiatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ananda da Silva Antonio
- Instituto de Química, Núcleo de Análises Forenses (NAF) - Laboratório de Apoio Ao Desenvolvimento Tecnológico (LADETEC), Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Gleicielle Tozzi Wurzler
- Instituto de Química, Núcleo de Análises Forenses (NAF) - Laboratório de Apoio Ao Desenvolvimento Tecnológico (LADETEC), Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Cecília de Andrade Bhering
- Instituto de Química, Núcleo de Análises Forenses (NAF) - Laboratório de Apoio Ao Desenvolvimento Tecnológico (LADETEC), Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Adriana Sousa de Oliveira
- Secretaria de Estado de Polícia Civil (SEPOL), Instituto de Criminalística Carlos Éboli (ICCE), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Luciana Silva do Amaral Cohen
- Secretaria de Estado de Polícia Civil (SEPOL), Instituto de Criminalística Carlos Éboli (ICCE), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Marco Antônio Martins de Oliveira
- Secretaria de Estado de Polícia Civil (SEPOL), Instituto de Criminalística Carlos Éboli (ICCE), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
- Instituto de Química, GQA, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói, RJ, Brazil
| | - Francisco Radler de Aquino Neto
- Instituto de Química, Núcleo de Análises Forenses (NAF) - Laboratório de Apoio Ao Desenvolvimento Tecnológico (LADETEC), Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Gabriela Vanini
- Instituto de Química, Núcleo de Análises Forenses (NAF) - Laboratório de Apoio Ao Desenvolvimento Tecnológico (LADETEC), Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
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Diniz MCC, de Moura F, Machado Y, Coelho Neto J, Piccin E. A simple, quick and non-destructive approach for sampling drugs of abuse in tablets and blotter for qualitative analysis by paper spray mass spectrometry. ANALYTICAL METHODS : ADVANCING METHODS AND APPLICATIONS 2023; 15:6259-6265. [PMID: 37955245 DOI: 10.1039/d3ay01393f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2023]
Abstract
This study presents the development of a simple, fast, and inexpensive approach for the direct analysis of new psychoactive substances (NPS) in seized tablets and blotter paper, with improved sample preservation and increased analytical frequency. Paper triangles were gently rubbed against the surface of the samples containing synthetic drugs and then subjected to analysis by paper spray ionization mass spectrometry (PS-MS). Seized samples containing lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) and several other substances from the classes of amphetamines, N-benzyl-substituted phenethylamines, synthetic cathinones, and synthetic cannabinoids, were analysed. Three types of paper were tested (filter paper, blotter paper, and synthetic paper) and several combinations of spray solvents were studied for the optimization. All samples were weighed and photographed before and after sequences of analysis in order to attest to the sample preservation. The results revealed that the approach is excellent for sample preservation, with less than 5% of mass loss even after 27 consecutive analyses. Moreover, no significant signal decreases were observed in mass spectrometry (MS) even after the experiments. It was possible to unequivocally identify illicit substances from seized samples (pills and blotter paper). By overcoming the solubilization and wet extraction process used for sample preparation, the waste was restricted to a volume of only 10 μL of solvent for the PS-MS analysis. The main advantage of our approach over existing methods is the sample preparation, which is simple and quick since the samples are just rubbed against the PS paper. This brings enormous benefits in terms of analytical frequency, economy of time and low consumption of solvents. Another important point is that the sample can remain intact for further analysis, which is crucial in forensic analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariana C C Diniz
- Departamento de Química, Instituto de Ciências Exatas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Antônio Carlos Ave., 6627, CEP 31270-901, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Fabiana de Moura
- Departamento de Química, Instituto de Ciências Exatas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Antônio Carlos Ave., 6627, CEP 31270-901, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
- Departamento de Química, Centro Federal de Educação Tecnológica de Minas Gerais, Amazonas Ave., 5253, CEP 30421-169, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Yuri Machado
- Seção Técnica de Física e Química Legal, Divisão de Laboratórios, Instituto de Criminalística, Superintendência de Polícia Técnico-Científica, Polícia Civil de Minas Gerais, Augusto de Lima Ave., 1833, CEP 30110-017, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil.
| | - José Coelho Neto
- Seção Técnica de Física e Química Legal, Divisão de Laboratórios, Instituto de Criminalística, Superintendência de Polícia Técnico-Científica, Polícia Civil de Minas Gerais, Augusto de Lima Ave., 1833, CEP 30110-017, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil.
- Departamento de Física, Instituto de Ciências Exatas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Antônio Carlos Ave., 6627, CEP 31270-901, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Evandro Piccin
- Departamento de Química, Instituto de Ciências Exatas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Antônio Carlos Ave., 6627, CEP 31270-901, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
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Macedo AA, Arantes LC, Pimentel DM, de Deus Melo T, Magalhães de Almeida Melo L, Alves de Barros W, Rocha CM, de Fátima Â, Pio Dos Santos WT. Comprehensive detection of lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) in forensic samples using carbon nanotube screen-printed electrodes. ANALYTICAL METHODS : ADVANCING METHODS AND APPLICATIONS 2023; 15:5837-5845. [PMID: 37874181 DOI: 10.1039/d3ay01385e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2023]
Abstract
Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) is a prevalent psychoactive substance recognized for its hallucinogenic properties, often encountered in blotter papers for illicit consumption. Given that LSD ranks among the most widely abused illicit drugs globally, its prompt identification in seized samples is vital for forensic investigations. This study presents, for the first time, an electrochemical screening method for detecting LSD in forensic samples, utilizing a multi-wall carbon nanotube screen-printed electrode (SPE-MWCNT). The LSD detection process was optimized on SPE-MWCNT in a phosphate buffer solution (0.1 mol L-1, pH 12.0) using square wave voltammetry (SWV). The combined use of SPE-MWCNT with SWV displayed robust stability in electrochemical responses for both qualitative (peak potential) and quantitative (peak current) LSD assessment, with a relative standard deviation (RSD) of less than 5% across the same or different electrodes (N = 3). A linear detection range was established between 0.16 and 40.0 μmol L-1 (R2 = 0.998), featuring a low limit of detection (LOD) of 0.05 μmol L-1. Interference studies with twenty-three other substances, including groups of phenethylamines typically found in blotting papers (e.g., NBOHs and NBOMes) and traditional illicit drugs, were performed, revealing a highly selective response for LSD using the proposed method. Consequently, the integration of SPE-MWCNT with SWV offers a robust tool for qualitative and quantitative LSD analysis in forensic applications, providing rapid, sensitive, selective, reproducible, and straightforward preliminary identification in seized samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Alves Macedo
- Departamento de Química, Universidade Federal dos Vales do Jequitinhonha e Mucuri, Campus JK, Diamantina, 39100000, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
| | - Luciano C Arantes
- Laboratório de Química e Física Forense, Instituto de Criminalística, Polícia Civil do Distrito Federal, 70610-907, Brasília, Distrito Federal, Brazil
| | - Dilton Martins Pimentel
- Laboratório Integrado de Pesquisas do Vale do Jequitinhonha, Pró-Reitoria de Pesquisa e Pós-Graduação, Universidade Federal dos Vales do Jequitinhonha e Mucuri, CampusJK, 39100000 Diamantina, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Tifany de Deus Melo
- Departamento de Farmácia, Universidade Federal dos Vales do Jequitinhonha e Mucuri, Campus JK, 39100000, Diamantina, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Larissa Magalhães de Almeida Melo
- Departamento de Química, Universidade Federal dos Vales do Jequitinhonha e Mucuri, Campus JK, Diamantina, 39100000, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
| | - Wellington Alves de Barros
- Departamento de Química, Instituto de Ciências Exatas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, 31270-901, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Cláudia Mancilha Rocha
- Departamento de Química, Instituto de Ciências Exatas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, 31270-901, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Ângelo de Fátima
- Departamento de Química, Instituto de Ciências Exatas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, 31270-901, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Wallans Torres Pio Dos Santos
- Departamento de Química, Universidade Federal dos Vales do Jequitinhonha e Mucuri, Campus JK, Diamantina, 39100000, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
- Laboratório Integrado de Pesquisas do Vale do Jequitinhonha, Pró-Reitoria de Pesquisa e Pós-Graduação, Universidade Federal dos Vales do Jequitinhonha e Mucuri, CampusJK, 39100000 Diamantina, Minas Gerais, Brazil
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Herian M, Świt P. 25X-NBOMe compounds - chemistry, pharmacology and toxicology. A comprehensive review. Crit Rev Toxicol 2023; 53:15-33. [PMID: 37115704 DOI: 10.1080/10408444.2023.2194907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/29/2023]
Abstract
Recently, a growing number of reports have indicated a positive effect of hallucinogenic-based therapies in different neuropsychiatric disorders. However, hallucinogens belonging to the group of new psychoactive substances (NPS) may produce high toxicity. NPS, due to their multi-receptors affinity, are extremely dangerous for the human body and mental health. An example of hallucinogens that have been lately responsible for many severe intoxications and deaths are 25X-NBOMes - N-(2-methoxybenzyl)-2,5-dimethoxy-4-substituted phenethylamines, synthetic compounds with strong hallucinogenic properties. 25X-NBOMes exhibit a high binding affinity to serotonin receptors but also to dopamine, adrenergic and histamine receptors. Apart from their influence on perception, many case reports point out systemic and neurological poisoning with these compounds. In humans, the most frequent side effects are tachycardia, anxiety, hypertension and seizures. Moreover, preclinical studies confirm that 25X-NBOMes cause developmental impairments, cytotoxicity, cardiovascular toxicity and changes in behavior of animals. Metabolism of NBOMes seems to be very complex and involves many metabolic pathways. This fact may explain the observed high toxicity. In addition, many analytical methods have been applied in order to identify these compounds and their metabolites. The presented review summarized the current knowledge about 25X-NBOMes, especially in the context of toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monika Herian
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Paweł Świt
- Institute of Chemistry, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
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Gallart-Mateu D, Béjar-Grimalt J, Esteve-Turrillas F, Armenta S, Garrigues S, de la Guardia M. A synergetic approach based on infrared spectroscopy and ion mobility spectrometry for the analysis of seized blotters: Boosting performance. Microchem J 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.microc.2022.107810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
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