Sodium Bicarbonate Research Articles

Construction of Biogas Digester and Produce Biogas from Cow Dung and Chicken Droppings as an Alternative Source of Heat to the Existing LPG Gas

The study analyzed the compositions of cow dung and chicken droppings, revealing that cow dung has a higher proximate composition, containing more organic waste, leading to increased biogas output. Anaerobes break down raw materials through hydrolysis, acidification, and methanization processes. The densities of both materials were found to be different, with cow dung having a larger density than chicken droppings. This results in varying chances of becoming soluble in the digester's contents during fermentation periods. The calorific values of the two raw materials were 7.8 mj/kg for cow dung and 7.9 mj/kg for goat dung. Both materials have a high rate of biogas production and a decent calorific value. The pH values of the slurry for cow dung and chicken droppings were 7.8 and 7.9, respectively. For fermentation and regular gas generation, a pH of 7 to 8.5 is ideal. The modest pH variations between the two substrates might be explained by the type of organic feeds given to animals as ruminants. Gas production was usually started from the 5th day. The pH of the slurry was adjusted to the required value (5-8) by adding 1 N sodium bicarbonate solution. The daily production over 30 days' retention period for the slurry with different pH levels showed that biogas gas production was higher during initial days and decreasing gradually as the day passed. The maximum gas yield was obtained for pH 7 on the 16th day and 8th and 19th in 10 and 20% of cow dung and chicken droppings, followed by 33, 22, and 33, 38 ml for pH 5 on the 25th, 23rd, and 16th, 13th days in 10 and 20% of cow dung and chicken droppings, and 14, 22, and 15, 26.1 cm3 for pH 8 on the 20th, 23rd, and 11th, 18th days in 10 and 20% of cow dung and chicken droppings, respectively

Effects of Sodium Bicarbonate Ringer’s Solution Combined with Positive End-Expiratory Pressure on the Internal Environment of Patients Undergoing Bariatric Surgery: A Randomized 2 × 2 Factorial Design Pilot

BackgroundTo evaluate the influence of sodium bicarbonate Ringer’s solution (BRS) combined with positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) on the internal environment in patients who have undergone laparoscopic bariatric surgery.MethodsA total of 128 patients undergoing laparoscopic bariatric surgery were randomly divided into the control group (group C), the PEEP group (group P), the BRS group (group B), and the BRS combined with the PEEP group (group BP). The results of arterial blood gas analysis, including pH value, base excess (BE), concentrations of electrolyte, and lactate (Lac) were documented before intravenous infusion (T0) and 5 min after the surgery (T1). Additional metrics included tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) and were quantified before intravenous infusion and at 30 min post-surgery. The quality of recovery-15 questionnaire (QoR-15) scores were documented preoperatively (D0) and on the first (D1) and third (D3) days, postoperatively.ResultsThere was no significant interaction effect between the two factors of BRS and PEEP (p = 0.659). After the infusion of BRS, the pH level increased significantly at T2 (p < 0.05). Using PEEP during operation can increase PaO2 in patients with obesity (p < 0.05). The level of pH value is increased, and the concentrations of inflammatory factors are reduced due to the combination of BRS and PEEP (p < 0.05). Compared with group C, group BP exhibited an augmentation in QoR-15 (p < 0.05), and the recovery time of group BP was significantly shortened (p < 0.05).ConclusionsBRS combined with PEEP has been demonstrated to improve acid–base balance, reduce the inflammatory response, shorten the recovery time, and substantially enhance the quality of early postoperative recovery.

Sodium bicarbonate in metabolic acidosis: A never-ending story?

Sodium bicarbonate in metabolic acidosis: A never-ending story?

Development of immediate release tablet formulations of lornoxicam with hot melt extrusion-based three-dimensional printing technology

Introduction This study aims to develop immediate release tablet formulations of lornoxicam (LRX) using hot melt extrusion (HME)-based fused deposition modeling (FDM) focusing on the adjustment of drug release by arranging infill densities and evaluating microcrystalline cellulose II (MCC II) as a disintegrating agent for HME-FDM purposes. LRX is a poorly soluble drug that exhibits pH-dependent solubility with a high thermal degradation temperature. These characteristics make it an ideal model drug for the HME-based FDM technique. Methods Various filament formulations were extruded using an extruder, and suitable filaments were used to produce 3D-printed tablets. Filaments and tablets were characterized. Dissolution studies were performed on tablets with different infill densities. DSC, FTIR, XRD, and SEM analyses were conducted. Results Although the solubility of LRX increases with pH, disintegrating agents such as MCC II had a more significant effect on the dissolution of LRX than sodium bicarbonate, which was used as the alkalinizing pore-forming agent. Dissolution studies revealed that the dissolution of LRX was enhanced by tablet erosion. Tablet erosion increased as the infill density decreased, and an immediate release profile was reached with tablets having 25% infill density. Despite the availability of conventional immediate release LRX tablets, this newly developed formulation offers the potential to be modulated for personalized therapy via the 3D printing technique. Conclusion This study demonstrates the feasibility of HME-based FDM printing technology for producing immediate-release LRX tablets with consistent quality, highlighting the utilization of MCC II as a disintegrating agent that enhances LRX dissolution in this process.

Complexities, Benefits, Risks, and Clinical Implications of Sodium Bicarbonate Administration in Critically Ill Patients: A State-of-the-Art Review.

Sodium bicarbonate has been used in the treatment of different pathologies, such as hyperkalemia, cardiac arrest, tricyclic antidepressant toxicity, aspirin toxicity, acute acidosis, lactic acidosis, diabetic ketoacidosis, rhabdomyolysis, and adrenergic receptors' resistance to catecholamine in patients with shock. An ongoing debate about bicarbonate's efficacy and potential harm has been raised for decades because of the lack of evidence supporting its potential efficacy. Despite the guidelines' restrictions, sodium bicarbonate has been overused in clinical practice. The overuse of sodium bicarbonate could be because of the desire to correct the arterial blood gas parameters rapidly instead of achieving homeostasis by treating the cause of the metabolic acidosis. Moreover, it is believed that sodium bicarbonate may reverse acidosis-induced myocardial depression, hemodynamic instability, ventricular arrhythmias, impaired cellular energy production, resistance to catecholamines, altered metabolism, enzyme suppression, immune dysfunction, and ineffective oxygen delivery. On the other hand, it is crucial to pay attention to the potential harm that could be caused by excessive sodium bicarbonate administration. Sodium bicarbonate may cause paradoxical respiratory acidosis, intracellular acidosis, hypokalemia, hypocalcemia, alkalosis, impaired oxygen delivery, cerebrospinal fluid acidosis, and neurologic dysfunction. In this review, we discuss the pathophysiology of sodium bicarbonate-induced adverse effects and potential benefits. We also review the most recent clinical trials, observational studies, and guidelines discussing the use of sodium bicarbonate in different pathologies.

Acute Co-Ingestion of Caffeine and Sodium Bicarbonate on Muscular Endurance Performance.

Background: Caffeine and sodium bicarbonate individually enhance muscular endurance by delaying fatigue, but their combined effects have scarcely been studied. Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the acute effects of co-ingesting caffeine and sodium bicarbonate on muscular endurance at different loads in bench press and back squat exercises. Methods: Twenty-seven recreationally trained participants (female/male: 14/14; age: 23 ± 3.6 years) were randomized to four conditions in a double-blind, crossover design: (a) sodium bicarbonate and caffeine (NaHCO3 + CAF); (b) sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3); (c) caffeine (CAF); (d) placebo (PLA); ingesting 0.3 g/kg NaHCO3, 3 mg/kg caffeine or placebo (maltodextrin). Participants performed two muscle endurance tests on bench press and back squat exercises at 65% and 85% 1RM, performing as many repetitions as possible in one set until task failure. Results: CAF increased the number of repetitions (p < 0.001; ηp2 = 0.111), mean velocity (Vmean, p = 0.043, ηp2 = 0.16), and mean power output (Wmean, p = 0.034, ηp2 = 0.15) compared to placebo. These effects were observed in back squat exercise at 65%1RM in Vmean (3.7%, p = 0.050, g = 1.144) and Wmean (5.2%, p = 0.047, g = 0.986) and at 85%1RM in Vmean (5.4%, p = 0.043, g = 0.22) and Wmean (5.5%, p = 0.050, g = 0.25). No ergogenic effects were found in NaHCO3 + CAF) or NaHCO3 conditions. Conclusions: CAF increased muscular endurance performance in male and female participants by increasing the number of repetitions, mean velocity, and power output; however, when NaHCO3 was ingested, these effects were not detected.

Study on Preparation and Heat Insulation Properties of Solidified Foams for Forest Fire Prevention and Control

ABSTRACT For effective prevention and control of forest fires, a new type of solidified foam was prepared by using composite foaming agent, foam stabilizer, sodium silicate, sodium bicarbonate solution, loess and cement as raw materials. The optimal ratio of solidified foam surfactant, foam stabilizer, gel agent, crosslinking agent and powder was investigated experimentally. Its thermal insulation performance was tested and its thermal insulation mechanism was analyzed. The results showed that when the surfactant ratio was SDS: AES = 2:1, the concentration was 0.8%, the concentration of foam stabilizer dodecyl alcohol, gelling agent WG and crosslinking agent NaHCO3 were 0.08%, 10% and 2%, respectively. When the powder ratio is loess: cement = 4:6, water-cement ratio 0.6 and foam content 8 V, the comprehensive performance of solidified foam is the best. The solidified foam is heated at different temperatures, and the temperature rise is the slowest. When it is heated at 400°C, the highest temperature is 71.92°C, which is 75.89°C lower than the highest temperature of gel foam. The fire retardant material has excellent stability and can block heat for a long time. In the process of fire extinguishing, it can effectively isolate oxygen, reduce heat transfer efficiency, and inhibit the spread of fire.

Influence of Coir Fibre Preparation on Mechanical Properties of Coir Fibre/Epoxy Resin Composites

Polymer composites have been utilized across various industries, especially in transportation, for many years. With a growing emphasis on sustainable production resources, the industry increasingly favours composite materials reinforced with natural fibres or particles. Unlike conventional fibres such as glass, carbon, or aramid, natural fibres typically have low compatibility with polymer matrices, often necessitating pretreatment to enhance bonding. In this study, coir fibres were physically and chemically treated with sodium bicarbonate solutions at varying concentrations (5–15%) and immersion durations (0–5 days). The treated fibres were then mixed into epoxy resin and poured into moulds to produce test specimens for evaluating mechanical properties. The fibre content in the composites ranged from 10 to 20%. Statistical analysis revealed that immersion time significantly affects all mechanical properties tested (tensile modulus, tensile strength, strain, and impact strength). Solution concentration significantly influences tensile modulus and strain, while fibre content significantly affects tensile modulus and strength. The conducted optimization shows that the best mechanical properties are achieved with the minimum tested coir fibre content of 10%. Maximum stiffness and strength can be expected with the longest immersion time of 5 days in the highest solution concentration of 15%. The best strain and impact strength properties, however, are observed at the lowest solution concentration of 5%.

Efficacy of Dietary Supplementing Zeolite or Sodium Bicarbonate for Lactating Buffalos on Nutrient Digestibility, Milk Production and some Blood Minerals status

Efficacy of Dietary Supplementing Zeolite or Sodium Bicarbonate for Lactating Buffalos on Nutrient Digestibility, Milk Production and some Blood Minerals status

Poly l-Lactic Acid Nanofiber Membrane Effectively Inhibits Liver Cancer Cells Growth and Prevents Postoperative Residual Cancer Recurrence.

Electrospun nanocarrier systems, widely employed in the medical field, exhibit the capability to encapsulate multiple drugs and mitigate complications. Doxorubicin hydrochloride (DOX) represents a frequently utilized chemotherapeutic agent for liver cancer patients. Sodium bicarbonate (SB) serves to neutralize the acidic tumor microenvironment, while ibuprofen (IBU) attenuates inflammatory factor production. The combination of these three commonly used drugs facilitates antitumor efficacy and relapse prevention. Composite fibrous membranes were prepared by incorporating the antitumor drug DOX into MSN, which was then codispersed with IBU in a poly l-lactic acid (PLLA) electrospinning solution after acid sensitization using SB. The resulting membrane was characterized using transmission electron microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. The toxic effect of this fibrous membrane and its pro-apoptotic effect on tumor cells were evaluated, along with the expression of cell proliferation-related factors, immune/inflammatory factors, and apoptosis-related factors. Immunohistochemistry and HE staining confirmed its ability to inhibit recurrence of postoperative residual cancer without causing toxicity to vital organs. The PLLA-MSN@DOX-SB-IBU nanofibrous membrane not only mitigates the cardiotoxicity associated with DOX but also inhibits tumor cell proliferation and enhances the tumor microenvironment, demonstrating significant antitumor efficacy. Furthermore, it effectively prevents the recurrence of residual cancer postsurgery while exhibiting excellent biocompatibility. The PLLA-MSN@DOX-SB-IBU nanofibrous membrane demonstrates significant potential in impeding the progression of hepatocellular carcinoma and mitigating the recurrence of residual cancer following surgical intervention for hepatocellular carcinoma.

Elemental Sulfur/Selenium-Mediated Metal-Free Phosphinothioation and Phosphinoselenoation of Vinylsulfonium Salts with P-H Bonds.

An efficient and facile method has been developed for the construction of novel P-S-C and P-Se-C bonds by facilitating the three-component cross-coupling reaction of P-H bonds with elemental sulfur/selenium and vinylsulfonium salts, utilizing sodium bicarbonate as a base. This approach eliminates the need for the use of toxic and odorous active sulfur/selenium reagents and noble metals, thereby offering a new pathway for synthesizing S-phosphinothioates and Se-phosphinoselenoates via the organic conversion of inorganic sources. The reaction has showcased remarkable versatility in terms of substrate applicability, particularly for organophosphorus compounds containing P-H bonds and vinylsulfonium salt derivatives. The resulting phosphinothioation/phosphinoselenoation products can be obtained with high yield and regioselectivity. Additionally, a plausible reaction mechanism for this transformation has been proposed based on step-by-step control experiments and 31P NMR tracking analysis.

Gingival Margin Damage During Supragingival Dental Polishing by Inexperienced Operator-Pilot Study.

Supragingival polishing is a crucial part of nonsurgical periodontal therapy. In recent years, air polishing has been used for this purpose, introducing different polishing powders. The purpose of the following study was to investigate the damage to the gingival margin during air polishing by an inexperienced operator. Five porcine models were polished by means of three different polishing powders: calcium carbonate, sodium bicarbonate, and erythritol. Their impact on the gingival margin was examined by means of histological and scanning electron microscopical observations and compared to healthy samples and samples polished with a polishing brush and paste. The histological observations revealed superficial to minor lesions limited in the epithelium by all the groups tested. Both examination protocols demonstrated less invasiveness of the erythritol-based polishing powder. Within the limitations of the present study, it could be concluded that air polishing is a safe instrumentation method for periodontal therapy even in inexperienced hands when the exact protocol is followed. The erythritol-based polishing powder seems to provide less of an impact on the gingival margin.

Nito “Core” Fiber-Reinforced Epoxy Composites: Enhancing Properties with NaHCO&lt;sub&gt;3&lt;/sub&gt; Treatment

This study explores the use of sodium bicarbonate-treated Nito core fiber as a natural and eco-friendly alternative for fiber-reinforced composites to address the challenge of enhancing the mechanical properties of composite materials while also prioritizing environmental sustainability. Nito core fibers were treated with different concentrations of sodium bicarbonate, an economical and eco-friendly alternative to alkali treatment, to enhance its compatibility with various matrices. FTIR results showed that NaHCO3 treatment effectively removed and reduced some non-cellulosic components present in the Nito fiber such as hemicellulose and lignin. This resulted in the NaHCO3-treated fiber-epoxy composite showing better tensile strength and modulus of elasticity than the epoxy composite reinforced with untreated Nito fiber. The use of treated fiber, however, did not have a noticeable effect on the flexural strength and flexural modulus of the epoxy composite. The SEM images of the nito fiber-epoxy composites showed better fiber-matrix adhesion between the treated nito fiber and epoxy matrix. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) of nito fiber-epoxy composites shows that the thermal stability of the composite is mainly due to the presence of cellulose, which can also be enhanced by some lignin. This study, therefore demonstrates the potential of Nito ‘core’ fibers as a viable substitute for synthetic reinforcements that can contribute to the advancement of composite material technology that aligns with the global shift towards environmentally responsible manufacturing practices.

Cyanoacrylate Glue Burn Injury in 2 Years Old Child

Cyanoacrylate, a compound formed from formaldehyde and alkyl cyanoacetate, serves as a potent adhesive in daily life, cosmetics, medicine, and industry. Variants like methyl 2-cyanoacrylate and ethyl 2-cyanoacrylate are common for daily and industrial use, with butyl 2-cyanoacrylate preferred in surgery as an adhesive for its low toxicity. While typically safe for skin, frequent contact can lead to dermatitis, paronychia, and onycholysis. This case report highlights a superficial burn in a two-year-old child caused by cyanoacrylate adhesive. Such burns are rare but require attention. Treatment involves gently separating the adhesive from the skin using soapy water, followed by the use of acetone, petroleum jelly, 0.9% NaCl solution, or 5% sodium bicarbonate solution, followed by the use of pumice stone or nail file to remove residue. Preventive measures include careful glue placement to limit access, especially by children. Caution is crucial when handling cyanoacrylate adhesive near cotton or wool due to its adhesive properties. In summary, cyanoacrylate offers versatility but requires caution to prevent dermatological issues and burns, especially when catalysed by cotton.

A Comparative Study of the Effect of Adding Dexmedetomidine, Dexamethasone and Sodium Bicarbonate to Ropivacaine in Ultrasound Guided Supraclavicular Block on the Quality of the Block in Orthopedic Surgery

Background: Brachial plexus block, particularly the supraclavicular approach. The choice of local anesthetic and the addition of adjuvants can significantly impact the quality and duration of the block. This study aimed to compare the effects of three different additives dexmedetomidine, dexamethasone, and sodium bicarbonate when combined with ropivacaine in ultrasound-guided supraclavicular blocks. Methods: A double-blind randomized clinical trial was conducted with 103 patients undergoing upper limb orthopedic surgery. Patients were divided into four groups, and each group received one of the following combinations: ropivacaine with dexmedetomidine, ropivacaine with dexamethasone, ropivacaine with sodium bicarbonate, or ropivacaine alone (control). The onset and duration of motor and sensory blocks, complications, patient and surgeon satisfaction, and vital signs were assessed. Results: The study revealed that all additives, particularly dexmedetomidine, significantly influenced the onset and duration of motor and sensory blocks compared to the control group. Dexmedetomidine demonstrated the fastest onset and prolonged the block, while dexamethasone and sodium bicarbonate also had substantial effects. Importantly, the additives did not lead to an increase in complications, and patient and surgeon satisfaction remained consistent across all groups. Conclusion: The findings of this study suggest that dexmedetomidine is a promising adjuvant for enhancing the quality and duration of supraclavicular blocks.

PREPARATION AND EVALUATION OF BILAYER TABLET OF PARACETAMOL AND THIOCOLCHICOSIDE: A DUAL APPROACH FOR PAIN MANAGEMENT

The traditional drug delivery system is not much effective when treating pain. Consequently, there is a gap in the market for a delivery system that can provide a treatment for this disorder. The present study is based on the objective to develop dual release bilayer tablet designed by BBD approach. The bilayer tablet contained an immediate release layer of paracetamol and a sustained release layer of thiocolchicoside. The optimization of the bilayer tablet was done using a three-level, three-factor Box-Behnken design. A total of thirteen formulations of paracetamol and thiocolchicoside were developed based on the design composition of paracetamol, sodium starch glycolate and sodium bicarbonate for the IR layer and thiocolchicoside, HPMC and magnesium stearate for the SR layer respectively. The developed dual release layers were compressed to form a bilayer tablet. The initial characterization and drug-excipient interaction studies were performed initially using infra-red (IR) spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction studies (XRD). Formulations showing good micrometric properties, disintegration and drug release, were selected for final compression of bilayer tablets. Formulation F13 showed the fastest drug release (91.34%) at 60 minutes and quick disintegration time (97 s). The sustained release thiocolchicoside tablet layer (F11-F13) had a hardness that varied from 4.05 to 4.90kg/cm2. Formulation F5 had the highest hardness, whereas F6 showed the lowest hardness. The sustained release layer showing 98.21% of drug release after 10 hours was selected for the compression to bilayer tablet. The developed dual layer tablets were investigated for quality parameters like hardness, percentage friability, weight variation, disintegration and dissolution. A high level of patient compliance is ensured through the current design as the patient does not need to get out of bed at night to take the medication.

Analysis of urine pH and specific gravity in pasture sheep

AbstractUrine pH and specific gravity represent the routine objectively verifiable parameters in urinalysis. Urinalysis is presently an underutilised analytical tool in ovine medicine but holds the same potential for predictive, diagnostic and prognostic use in sheep as it does in human and small animal medicine. Urine pH and specific gravity were measured as a health screening tool to ascertain normal physiological ranges in sheep on free-range summer pastures with free access to drinking water. Both sexes, different ages and various breeds including Dorper, Karakul, Damara and cross-breeds were recruited into the study to investigate possible sources of variation. Experimental animals were selected through stratified random sampling using farm records from a population of 69 rams, 135 ewes and 115 lambs. Samples of urine were collected from 60 rams, 60 ewes and 60 lambs by free catch following induction of micturition by transient apnoea. Urine pH was measured by a pH metre whilst urine specific gravity was evaluated with an optical refractometer. The urine pH ranged from 6.81 to 9.08, with a mean of 8.52 ± 0.02 (se). Only one animal had a urine pH value below the existing reference level (7.4–8.5). Concurrent abnormalities of the urine in dipstick analysis included proteinuria and glucosuria. Urine specific gravity varied from 1.003 to 1.050 with a mean of 1.021 ± 0.001 (se). Four sheep, all of them lambs, had urine-specific gravity values above the existing reference level (1.015 to 1.045). The high urine specific gravity was associated with diverse pathological findings including proteinuria, pyuria and glucosuria as well as the presence of urine sediment. Urine pH was influenced by gender and breed and specific gravity by age. The results affirmed that sheep naturally produce alkaline urine and aciduria points to an underlying pathological problem. An association between high urine specific gravity and systemic/urinary system disorders was evident in lambs. Isosthenuria and hyposthenuria were frequently encountered in healthy adult sheep and were considered indices of positive water balance rather than renal dysfunction. Collated data confirmed existing reference levels but revised the upper limit of normal urine pH to 9 instead of 8.5, and the lower limit of normal urine specific gravity to 1.003 instead of 1.015.

The Impact of Stone Composition on Treatment Strategies for Patients with Urolithiasis: A Narrative Review.

Urolithiasis is a multifactorial condition where stone composition is critical in guiding treatment and prevention strategies. Advanced diagnostic techniques, such as infrared spectroscopy, provide precise stone analysis, enabling clinicians to tailor interventions based on specific stone types and associated metabolic abnormalities. Calcium oxalate monohydrate stones often require invasive approaches like percutaneous nephrolithotomy, while uric acid responds well to dissolution therapy. Cystine stones, linked to genetic cystinuria, necessitate lifelong management, including aggressive hydration, urinary alkalinization, and pharmacological treatments such as tiopronin. Stone composition significantly influences treatment decisions and recurrence prevention in urolithiasis. Integrating detailed compositional analysis into clinical practice enables personalized interventions, improving outcomes and reducing recurrence rates. Future research should focus on refining diagnostic techniques and exploring novel therapies to address the metabolic and environmental contributors to stone formation. Adopting a multidisciplinary, patient-centered approach is essential for advancing the management of urolithiasis.

Assessing groundwater quality in northern Algeria using geochemical and index approaches

This study aims to enhance understanding of the hydrogeochemical behavior of the aquifer by utilizing a water quality index in conjunction with hydrogeochemical analysis. The focus is on identifying the factors that control its chemical composition and influence its suitability for domestic use. Water samples were collected from twenty boreholes and analyzed for major ions, pH, and electrical conductivity during the dry and wet seasons. During the wet season, the water quality index indicated generally good chemical quality, with an average score of 96.12. This was categorized as Excellent (5%), Good (55%), and Poor (40%). In contrast, the dry season showed a slight deterioration in water quality, with an average score of 102.57, reflecting a distribution of Excellent (10%), Good (35%), and Poor (55%). Boreholes located in the western and central parts of the aquifer exhibited better chemical quality compared to those in the eastern part, which are considered unsuitable for human consumption due to their poor quality. The mineralization process is primarily attributed to the dissolution of dolomitic and evaporitic formations, resulting in various chemical facies. The dominant facies identified were calcium and magnesium bicarbonate (85%), followed by sodium bicarbonate (7.5%), calcium sulfate (5%), and sodium chloride (2.5%). This study underscores the critical need for sustainable management practices to protect groundwater quality in the Mitidja plain amid ongoing environmental challenges. Addressing these issues is essential for ensuring safe drinking water availability for local communities.

A forensic autopsy case of suicide using baking soda and citric acid in a bathtub.

A mixture of baking soda (sodium hydrogen carbonate) and citric acid is used for cleaning purposes, but, in recent years, this mixture has been introduced on the internet as a method for suicide. Here, we report a case in which the two agents were mixed in a bathtub to generate carbon dioxide (CO2). A man in his early 60s was found dead in his clothes in a bathtub with a lid. Postmortem changes were somewhat progressed, but only pulmonary edema was observed, with no injuries or lesions that could have led to cause of death, and no drug toxicants detected. Empty containers of baking soda (789g) and citric acid (850g) were found at the scene. We conducted a reproduction experiment showing that CO2 reached a lethal concentration (~ 60%) within 12s, but the O2 concentration was about 10%, which is not a lethal concentration. Therefore, it is highly likely that the man died of CO2 intoxication within a short period of time and before he would have suffered asphyxiation due to oxygen deficiency. Normally, this result can only be obtained with the cooperation of an investigative agency and a large-scale reproduction experiment, but we were able to diagnose the cause of his death, including a differential diagnosis of asphyxia due to oxygen deficiency, by means of a reproduction model at 1/35 scale that could easily be performed in the laboratory.