Objectives: Virtual laboratory simulations (VLSs) are computer-based tools that offer unlimited application options in scientific, medical, and engineering fields. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether VLSs are efficient learning tools and how these simulations can be integrated into laboratory practice in medical laboratory education. Methods: In this pre-test/post-test control group study, 32 volunteers were randomly assigned to either experimental or control groups. The experimental group performed laboratory simulations based on biochemistry and microbiology and then completed a self-report survey to evaluate their satisfaction and beliefs about simulations. Results: In the experimental group, post-test scores of each simulation were significantly elevated compared to pre-test scores; however, pre- and post-test scores of control group were statistically the same. The experimental group agreed that these simulations should be applied before theoretical lectures and laboratory practices. They also highlighted that translating from English to their native language creates difficulties in applying and understanding the simulation. Conclusions: We emphasized that VLSs are excellent learning tools that increase not only the knowledge but also the self-motivation and focus of the students. Based on feedbacks, native language options are necessary to enable the students to achieve equality of opportunity in education.

In this study, novel double molecular imprinted nanoparticles (DMIP nanoparticles) with multi-functional monomers were prepared for adsorption of salmeterol xinafoate (SAM) and fluticasone propionate (FLU) drugs. For this purpose, SAM and FLU imprinted poly (2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate-N-methacryloyl-(L)-alanine-N-methacryloyl-(L)-histidine) [p(HEMA-MAAL-MAH)] nanoparticles were synthesized by surfactant-free emulsion polymerization method. After the characterization, adsorption conditions were optimized, and the adsorption kinetics parameters were also calculated. In the selectivity experiments, budesonide (BS) and formoterol fumarate (FF) drugs were used as competitive drugs. These novel development DMIP nanoparticles have the potential for use in many different areas, for purposes such as drug release, separation, and purification.

Salmeterol xinafoate (SAM) and fluticasone propionate (FLU) are one of the drug combinations used together in the treatment of lung diseases such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The aim of this study is to investigate the usability of novel dual molecular imprinted nanoparticles (poly(2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate-N-methacryloyl-(L)-alanine-N-methacryloyl-(L)-histidine) [p(HEMA-MAAL-MAH)], abbr. DMIPNPs) as a controlled drug release systems. In this study, SAM and FLU drugs were chosen as model drugs because they are used in the treatment of these diseases. DMIPNPs were prepared by surfactant-free emulsion polymerization method and characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and fourier transform infrared spectrometer (FTIR). In in vitro drug release experiments, drug release conditions were optimized. SAM and FLU release from DMIPNPs experiments were also performed in the simulated lung fluid (SLF). The amount of released SAM and FLU were found as 4.79 and 5.68 mg/g in the SLF medium at the end of 48 h, respectively. The release kinetics of SAM and FLU from DMIPNPs were calculated in the SLF medium. The release of SAM and FLU was determined to be compatible with the Higuchi release models. According to these results, these DMIPNPs, dual-template molecular imprinted nanoparticles with dual monomers, are promising materials that can be used in the controlled release of two different drugs. Graphical abstract