Sodium Bicarbonate Research Articles

Cost analysis study of price variation among the various brands of proton pump inhibitors available in Benghazi-Libya

Background: A large proportion of patients in developing countries have to pay out of pocket for their medications. The prices of different brands of the same medications vary considerably and may vary from one community pharmacy to another. This study was undertaken to evaluate the variation in costs of proton pump inhibitors (PPI) and histamine H2-receptor antagonists available in Libya. Methods: Prices of various brands of PPI and various formulations were collected from four community pharmacies in the city of Benghazi. Both cost ratio and percentage variation were calculated and compared for various brands of the same strength and number of tablets, capsules, injections, or syrups. Results: The highest cost ratio and percentage price variation were found with omeprazole 20 mg, followed by omeprazole 40 mg. Other significant cost variations (>100%) were seen with pantoprazole 40 mg, Downoprazol (omeprazole + sodium bicarbonate) 40 mg, and esomeprazole 40 mg. Ampoules of omeprazole, cimetidine, and ranitidine had cost ratios of 1:1.7, 1:1.7, and 1:1.8, and cost variation ratios of 71.4, 66.7, and 75, respectively. Variations in prices of PPI and histamine H2 antagonists from the same manufacturer between different community pharmacies were common. The highest percentage cost variation (100) was seen with omeprazole 20 mg. Conclusions: Due to political instability, the prices of all drugs are controlled by importing private companies and the owners of community pharmacies instead of governmental authorities, that leads to cost variations. Therefore, the health authorities exert strict control on pricing of medications.

Determination of carbonation depth and pH in concrete containing crystalline waterproofing agents using the endoscopic method

The monitoring of the carbonation process plays a key role in monitoring the health of reinforced concrete structures. In this study, the carbonation depth of concrete was measured using image processing and endoscopic methods, which relied on the pH level of the concrete containing crystalline waterproofing material. The results show that the carbonation depth and pH of the concrete were estimated by the nondestructive endoscopic method-based graphical user interface, with a high accuracy of 0.99. Furthermore, it was observed that crystalline waterproofing material increased the carbonation depth of concrete. Due to the lack of direct contact between the water molecules and the Na2O, the crystalline structure could not form sufficiently to prevent CO2 penetration. This phenomenon caused porosity in the mortar, a decrease in the velocity of the ultrasonic sound, and thus a loss of strength. However, a slight increase in compressive strength after carbonation was attributed to the sodium bicarbonate filling in the voids as a result of the reactions between Na2O, water molecules, and CO2.

The Effects of Extrusion Temperature and Sodium Bicarbonate Foaming Agent on Density and Tensile Properties of Kenaf Fibre-Reinforced Biocomposites

The Effects of Extrusion Temperature and Sodium Bicarbonate Foaming Agent on Density and Tensile Properties of Kenaf Fibre-Reinforced Biocomposites

Subsurface flow pathway and hydrochemistry of a geographically isolated depression wetland in the Serra Geral Diabase Formation, São Paulo State, Brazil

Connectivity among water bodies is crucial for hydrological and ecological processes and fundamental for water management. Hydrochemistry and potentiometric studies on an isolated wetland allow to assess landscape influence, flow pathways, and subsurface connection. This study focuses on an isolated wetland over diabase on a topographic depression, with no visible river connection, and aims to determine the influence of rainfall and landscape on water composition and investigate subsurface flow toward the Santa Gertrudes stream. Water levels were monitored, and samples were collected from four wells during wet and dry seasons. Physical and chemical water parameters were measured, and ion concentrations determined. Pearson’s correlations highlighted codependence between physical and chemical parameters and ions and Piper’s diagram classified water composition. Six potentiometric maps were generated using interpolated hydraulic loads from monitoring campaigns. The findings show fluctuations in water level (0.11 to 0.93 m during wet periods and 1.25 to 1.79 m during dry periods), indicating rainwater directly affects water availability. Water composition was categorized as Sodium Bicarbonate and electrical conductivity values (greater than 100 µS/cm) may indicate that upstream wells are retaining salts from the surrounding crops. Strong positive correlation between sodium, bicarbonate and carbonate, and sulfate with electrical conductivity suggests simultaneous release of ions due to rock and soil mineral alteration. Potentiometric data reinforce the hypothesis of a subsurface connection between the studied area and the Santa Gertrudes stream. Future studies could benefit from expanding the monitoring network to include more GIWs and applying additional methods, such as isotope tracers.

Effect of Compressive Modulus of Porous PVA Hydrogel Coating on the Preventing Adhesion of Polypropylene Mesh.

PP mesh is a widely used prosthetic material in hernia repair. However, visceral adhesion is one of the worst complications of this operation. Hence, an anti-adhesive PP mesh is developed by coating porous polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) hydrogel on PP surface via freezing-thawing process method. The compressive modulus of porous PVA hydrogel coating is first regulated by the addition of porogen sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3) at various quality ratios with PVA. As expected, the porous hydrogel coating displayed modulus more closely resembling that of native abdominal wall tissue. In vitro tests demonstrate the modified PP mesh show superior coating stability, excellent hemocompatibility, and good cytocompatibility. In vivo experiments illustrate that PP mesh coated by the PVA4 hydrogel that mimicked the modulus of native abdominal wall could prevent adhesion effectively. Based on this, the rapamycin (RPM) is loaded into the porous PVA4 hydrogel coating to further improve anti-adhesive property of PP mesh. The Hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) and Masson trichrome (MT) staining results verified that the resulting mesh could alleviate the inflammation response and reduce the deposition of collagen around the implantation zone. The biomimetic mechanical property and anti-adhesive property of modified PP mesh make it a valuable candidate for application in hernioplasty.

Effects of Fungicides on Fungal Development, Conidiophore Morphology, and Conidial Releases from Single Strawberry Powdery Mildew Colonies Assessed Using an Electrostatic Technique

We evaluated the effects of fungicides on strawberry powdery mildew (PM) fungus, Podosphaera aphanis, using an electrostatic technique. Thirty-six fungicides were sprayed on single colonies of P. aphanis on leaves of strawberry seedlings (Fragaria × ananassa Duchesne ex Rozier). Colony development varied depending on the tested fungicides. Particularly, pyraziflumid, triflumizole, triforine, polyoxin, sodium hydrogen carbonate + copper wettable powder, and flutianil + mepanipyrim were highly effective for reducing colony development. P. aphanis colonies were histochemically stained to observe the morphological characteristics of fungal cells forming normal and abnormal conidiophores. Abnormal conidiophores were classified into seven types based on their morphological and cytological characteristics. Finally, asexual conidia were collected from single P. aphanis colonies on the leaves spray-treated with fungicides using a dielectrically polarized insulator plate (electrostatic spore collector); conidia attracted to the insulator plates were counted using a high-fidelity digital microscope. Most tested fungicides highly inhibited the production and/or germination of asexual conidia. The germination of asexual conidia was observed only in thiophanate-methyl (methyl benzimidazole carbamates fungicides; MBC fungicides) and azoxystrobin (quinone outside inhibitors; QoI fungicides). Assessing with the electrostatic technique, we clarified that P. aphanis has developed resistance to both thiophanate-methyl and azoxystrobin. Thus, the methodological assessment analyzing the colony development and the number of conidia released from single colonies will be helpful information for screening effective fungicides.

Characteristics of soy films as affected by transglutaminase cross-linking and inclusions of pectin and protein enhancers.

Previously, we showed that water extract (soymilk, except pH was increased to 8 from 6.5) of whole soybean could be used directly as a raw material for producing edible soy films by deposition of the film-forming solution (soy extract with enhancers). However, the strength of such soy films needed improvement because they were weak. The purpose of this study was to investigate how transglutaminase (TG) cross-linking reactions and film enhancers, including pectin (low- and high-methoxyl pectin), whey protein isolate (WPI), and soy protein isolate (SPI), improve the physical properties of soy films. Soy films prepared with TG had tensile strength (TS) of 3.01MPa and puncture strength (PS) of 0.78MPa, which were higher by as much as 51% and 30% than that of soy films without TG treatment, respectively. Pectin showed significant effects on the mechanical properties of TG-added soy films in terms of TS, PS, and % elongation. On the other hand, only TS and PS were increased by the addition of WPI or SPI. Heat curing had a significant effect on soy film's physical properties. TG treatment significantly reduced film solubility when soaked in water and various levels of acid (vinegar) and base (baking soda) solutions. Under the experimental conditions of 35 unit TG and 28min of reaction, the degrees of cross-linking were evidenced by the disappearance of individual protein subunits, except the basic subunit of glycinin, and the reduction of 21% of lysine residues of the proteins. HIGHLIGHTS: Edible soy films were made with transglutaminase and about 21% lysine cross-linked. The mechanical strength of soy films was increased by incorporating film enhancers. Transglutaminase enhanced the mechanical properties of soy films.

Fabricating porous adsorbent coatings using resin curing method: A comprehensive experimental investigation

This study investigates a novel stereolithography-based technique using ultraviolet (UV) light and photopolymer resin to fabricate porous and robust MIL-101 (Cr) adsorbent layers. A unique acid-base reaction step is integrated to control the void size of the adsorbent layer. To prepare the slurry, ingredients are mixed in specific ratios, comprising photopolymer resin (50–55 %), sodium bicarbonate (20–23 %), and MIL-101 (Cr) (23–30 %). Afterward, the slurry-coated samples are treated with concentrated Hydrochloric acid (HCl, 12 M or 36.5 %) and are cured using UV light after controlled delays, forming a porous adsorbent layer. The adsorbent layers are experimentally characterized as a function of the initial slurry recipe and the time delay between acid treatment and UV curing. Furthermore, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy-dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS) are used to analyze the coated layers. Water isotherm experiments are performed to test the coated layers performance for both MIL-101 (Cr) powders and coated samples. The void size volume fraction for coated samples is found to vary between 22 % and 42 %, and maximum void size is observed for 27 % adsorbent and 4 seconds time delay. Such a comprehensive characterization provides a rapid and efficient alternative to conventional adsorbent structuring methods for fabricating adsorbent layers.

Appraising water resources for irrigation and spatial analysis based on fuzzy logic model in the tribal-prone areas of Bangladesh.

The lack of quality water resources for irrigation is one of the main threats for sustainable farming. This pioneering study focused on finding the best area for farming by looking at irrigation water quality and analyzing its location using a fuzzy logic model on a Geographic Information System platform. In the tribal-prone areas of Khagrachhari Sadar Upazila, Bangladesh, 28 surface water and 39 groundwater samples were taken from shallow tube wells, rivers, canals, ponds, lakes, and waterfalls. The samples were then analyzed for irrigation water quality parameters like electrical conductivity (EC), total dissolved solids (TDS), sodium adsorption ratio (SAR), soluble sodium percentage (SSP), residual sodium bicarbonate (RSBC), magnesium hazard ratio (MHR), Kelley's ratio (KR), and permeability index (PI). Fuzzy Irrigation Water Quality Index (FIWQI) was employed to determine the irrigation suitability of water resources. Spatial maps for parameters like EC, KR, MH, Na%, PI, SAR, and RSBC were developed using fuzzy membership values for groundwater and surface water. The FIWQI results indicate that 100% of the groundwater and 75% of the surface water samples range in the categories of excellent to good for irrigation uses. A new irrigation suitability map constructed by overlaying all parameters showed that surface water (75%) and some groundwater (100%) in the northern and southwestern portions are fit for agriculture. The western and central parts are unfit for irrigation due to higher bicarbonate and magnesium contents. The Piper and Gibbs diagram also indicated that the water in the study area is magnesium-bicarbonate type and the primary mechanism of water chemistry is controlled by the weathering of rocks, respectively. This research pinpoints the irrigation spatial pattern for regional water resource practices, identifies novel suitable areas, and improves sustainable agricultural uses in tribal-prone areas.

EXPANSION OF THE RANGE OF YEAST-FREE BAKERY PRODUCTS MADE USING FERMENTED DAIRY PRODUCTS

Traditionally, biological methods are used to leaven dough semi-finished products in the production of bakery products. However, today consumers are increasingly including yeast-free bakery products in their diet. Given the growing demand for yeastfree bakery products, it is advisable to expand the range of products in this category. To ensure the formation of a developed crumb in yeast-free bakery products, chemical leavening agents are used in their production. Yeast-free bakery products were made using various fermented dairy products: ayran (2,0% fat), kefir (2,5% fat), bifidoyogurt (1,5% fat), and ryazhenka (4,0% fat). To determine the most effective fermented dairy product for the production of high-quality yeast-free bakery products, trial baking was conducted. Experimental dough samples were kneaded using two types of chemical leavening agents - sodium bicarbonate and ammonium carbonate. The dough was prepared using the straight dough method. The duration of dough resting after kneading was 20-30 minutes. The dough pieces were shaped into "okrayets" (small loaves): the dough was rolled to a thickness of 1,5 cm and the dough pieces were cut out with a cutter, placed on a sheet, and baked in a rack oven at 200-240°C for 16-18 minutes. The research results established that it is advisable to use ryazhenka in the production of yeast-free bakery products using fermented dairy products. At the same time, sodium bicarbonate should be included in the recipe to leaven the crumb. Such a product had the highest comprehensive quality index. Based on organoleptic and microbiological indicators, the product was found to have a shelf life of no more than 48 hours. To improve the taste and aromatic properties of the product, 3% malted barley extract and 4% white crystalline sugar were included in its composition. The developed yeast-free okrayets with ryazhenka was characterized by a higher content of bisulfitebinding substances, indicating an improved aroma of the product and a darker color of the crust and crumb. The developed product meets the body's needs for proteins by 31,5%, fats by 10,5%, carbohydrates by 49,0%, and dietary fiber by 18,3%.

13-Week Repeated Oral Toxicity and Toxicokinetic Studies of Rabeprazole Sodium and Sodium Bicarbonate Combination in Dogs.

The subchronic toxicity and toxicokinetics of a combination of rabeprazole sodium and sodium bicarbonate were investigated in dogs by daily oral administration for 13 consecutive weeks with a 4-week recovery period. The dose groups consisted of control (vehicles), (5 + 200), (10 + 400), and (20 + 800) mg/kg of rabeprazole sodium + sodium bicarbonate, 20mg/kg of rabeprazole sodium only, and 800mg/kg of sodium bicarbonate only. Esophageal ulceration accompanied by inflammation was observed in only one animal in the male (20 + 800) mg/kg rabeprazole sodium + sodium bicarbonate group. However, the severity of the ulceration was moderate, and the site of occurrence was focally extensive; thus, it was assumed to be a treatment-related effect of rabeprazole sodium + sodium bicarbonate. In the toxicokinetics component of this study, systemic exposure to rabeprazole sodium (AUClast and Cmax at Day 91) was greater in males than females, suggesting sex differences. AUClast and Cmax at Day 91 were increased compared to those on Day 1 in a dose-dependent manner. A delayed Tmax and no drug accumulation were observed after repeated dosage. In conclusion, we suggest under the conditions of this study that the no-observed-adverse-effect level (NOAEL) of the combination of rabeprazole sodium + sodium bicarbonate in male and female dogs is (10 + 400) and (20 + 800) mg/kg, respectively.

High Energy Pulsed Laser Beam to Produce a Thin Layer of Crystalline Silver without Heating the Deposition Substrate and Its Catalytic Effects

Crystalline silver thin layers were obtained using high-energy pulsed laser ablation without the heating of the deposition substrate. The fluid Plateau–Rayleigh (PRI), Rayleigh–Taylor (RTI), and Richtmyer–Meshkov (RMI) instabilities, as well as the crown splash induced during the pulsed laser deposition (PLD) in the high energy regime, resulting in ring and pearl-shaped structures, offer the benefit of an increased sorption surface. These morphological structures obtained for the silver thin layers make them of interest for catalytic applications. This study addresses both fundamental and applied issues on the morphological structures obtained for the silver thin layers and their catalytic function in organic processes. In this sense, the catalytic action of the thin silver layer was highlighted by modifications of the Reactive Blue 21 dye (C.I.) in an aqueous solution with sodium bicarbonate. Specific investigations and analyses were carried out using electron microscopy and elemental analysis (SEM-EDX), atomic force microscopy (AFM) and profilometry, mass spectrometry, ablation plasma diagnosis, diffractograms (XRD), as well as IR spectroscopy (FTIR). In addition to the experimental investigation and analyses, the simulation of the ionization energy threshold was conducted in COMSOL for complementary evaluation on the involved processes and phenomena.

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.

Groundwater and Dissolved Gases Geochemistry in the Pesaro-Urbino Province (Northern Marche, Central Italy) as a Tool for Seismic Surveillance and Sustainability

The Pesaro-Urbino province (PUP) (northern Marche, central Italy) is one of the most seismically active areas in Italy, with the most recent earthquakes (5.2 and 5.5 Mw) having occurred on 9 November 2022 with an epicenter located in the Adriatic Sea. A detailed geochemical and isotopic characterization of 87 groundwaters (and dissolved gases) circulating in the PUP was carried out to (i) unravel the geochemical processes controlling the water circulation, (ii) investigate the interplay between deep originated fluids and shallow aquifers, (iii) evaluate the reliability of specific geochemical parameters as tracers for seismic activity, and (iv) select the most suitable sampling sites to deploy a monitoring network to highlight possible compositional changes related to the regional and local tectonic activity. The geochemical dataset includes waters showing five different hydrochemical compositional facies: (i) calcium bicarbonate with low Total Dissolved Solids (TDS); (ii) calcium bicarbonate with relatively high concentrations of sulfate (>200 mg/L); (iii) sodium bicarbonate with pH > 8.8; (iv) calcium sulfate; (v) sodium chlorine. Two distinct groups of dissolved gases can be recognized: (a) N2-dominated gases with N2/Ar ratios similar to those of Air-Saturated Water (ASW); (b) CO2- and CH4-rich gases associated with high TDS and springs rich in S-bearing reduced species. The isotopic values of δ13C-CO2 and δ13C-CH4 suggest a predominant biogenic origin for both species with a negligible contribution from deep-seated fluids. The Ca-HCO3(SO4), Ca(Na)-SO4(Cl), and Na-HCO3 waters, being likely related to deep hydrological pathways, are the best candidates to be included in the monitoring network in the Pesaro-Urbino province. This will be of paramount importance in addressing the challenge of unravelling fluid geochemical precursors of earthquakes, thus increasing and improving seismic surveillance practices and hazard mitigation.

Navigating methotrexate toxicity: Examining the therapeutic roles of folinic acid and glucarpidase.

Methotrexate (MTX) toxicity varies depending on factors such as dosing frequency (acute or repeated), dosage (low or high) and the administration route (oral, parenteral or intrathecal). Renal impairment can trigger or exacerbate MTX toxicity. Acute oral low-dose MTX (LDMTX) overdoses seldom lead to toxicity due to the saturable maximal bioavailable dose, but toxicity risks increase with repeated low doses (>3 days), high-dose MTX (HDMTX) or intrathecal poisoning. Folinic acid shares MTX transporters in the gut and cells and bypasses the MTX-induced dihydrofolate reductase inhibition. The required folinic acid dosage differs for low-dose and high-dose MTX toxicities. Acute LDMTX poisoning rarely requires folinic acid, while chronic LDMTX poisoning needs low-dose folinic acid until cellular function is restored. In HDMTX toxicities, early intravenous folinic acid administration is recommended, with dose and duration being guided by MTX concentrations and clinical improvement. In intrathecal MTX poisoning, folinic acid should be administered intravenously. Glucarpidase, a recombinant bacterial enzyme, has a high affinity for MTX and folate analogues in the intravascular or intrathecal systems. It decreases serum MTX concentrations by 90%-95% within 15 min. Its primary indication is for intrathecal MTX poisoning. It is rarely indicated in HDMTX toxicity unless patients have renal injury. However, there is no literature evidence supporting its use in HDMTX poisoning. Its use is limited by its significant cost and lack of availability. Haemodialysis can be potentially useful for MTX removal in cases where glucarpidase is not available. Additionally, fluid hydration, renal support and urine alkalinization are important adjunctive therapies for managing MTX toxicities.

Hydrogeochemical evolution and isotopic characteristics of groundwater-surface water interaction processes within the Kawere catchment and its hydrogeotechnical implication on pit slope stability at the Nsuta mine, Ghana

In geo-hazard prone heterogenous mining terrain with multiple geological structures, surface water may interact with its underlying groundwater system conveying large quantities of water to deeper aquifers, which could undoubtedly lead to pit-inflows and slope stability challenges for any close-by mining operation. A total of forty-three (43) water samples were collected from the atmosphere, surface, subsurface and the pit-water during dry and wet seasons, respectively to identify pit-inflow origin using hydrogeochemical evolution paths and end member mixing analysis of the major ions at the only manganese mine in Nsuta, Ghana. The major ions order was Na2+>Ca2+>Mg2+>K+ for cations and anions' order was HCO3− > SO42− > Cl−. The identified hydrogeochemical facies and proportions are Ca–HCO3- (68.75%), Ca–Cl2 (18.75%) and mixed Ca–Mg–Cl (12.5%) in the dry season and mixed Ca–Na–HCO3 (54%) followed by Ca–HCO3 (46%) in the wet season. Na+ is the preeminent cation whilst HCO3− is the preeminent anion. Saturation Index (SI) of carbonate and evaporate minerals, particularly calcite, identified groundwater-surface water (GW-SW) exchange flux pathways in the study area, and thus establishing geochemical modeling as a robust tool for identifying GW-SW exchange flux pathways in riverine and aquifer systems. The isotopic composition of the various water samples is depleted having strong mixing relationship of R2 = 0.96%, suggesting the waters have same origin with low d-excess indicating rainfall under lower humidity. End member mixing analysis suggested GW-SW interaction with the surface water contributing an average of 87% to groundwater in the mine pit during the dry season. The generally low hydrogeochemical and isotopic evidence of the various water sources indicate homogeneity pointing to the existence of GW-SW interaction. The fast-movement of the exchange flux has widened flow path leading to pit slope stability issues and huge pit-inflows. Therefore, the mine managers, stakeholders, and decision makers are strongly advised to promptly integrate hydrogeotechnical assessments into their operations as a sustainable remedial measure. This will enable them to continuously reduce the potentiometric head of the groundwater system and ensure cost-efficient mining activities. It is essential to take these actions due to the mine's location within two river stream catchments.

Sustainable brine management: Unlocking magnesium and calcium for improved carbonation in the modified Solvay process

The extensive utilization of Reverse Osmosis (RO) in water desalination has led to the production of high-salinity brine, which poses significant environmental and societal challenges. This study presents an effective approach for the recovery of calcium and magnesium from real local RO brine. This method, serving as the initial step in a multi-treatment process, aims to efficiently manage brine and mitigate CO2 emission. Experimental outcomes demonstrate that a decarbonization pre-treatment, achieved through acidification, utilizes a near-stoichiometric ratio of sodium hydroxide to magnesium (2:1). This process, along with gradual addition of alkaline solution and adequate settling time, effectively removes more than 98 % of magnesium. Additionally, it precipitates high-purity magnesium hydroxide solids with large particles sizes (193.6 µm). In the subsequent soda ash stage, more than 97 % of calcium is successfully removed, yielding calcium carbonate with 95 % purity. Preliminary assessments of revenue generated from these products offer economic justifications for Zero Liquid Discharge implementation. Furthermore, Aspen Plus simulation for the carbonation process using the modified Solvay process revealed the significant benefits of the pretreatment process. This enhances sodium conversion efficiency, improves the production of sodium bicarbonate, and reduces impurities. These findings underscore the importance of Ca2+ and Mg2+ separation steps in improving the carbonation process.

Mechanistic study of cefixime degradation with an atmospheric air dielectric barrier discharge – Influence of radical scavengers and metal ion catalyst

The ineffective removal of antibiotic residues and their metabolites by conventional wastewater treatment setups lead to their continuous discharge into the environment, causing risks to both aquatic life and human health. This study explored the use of a non-thermal plasma (NTP) generated by atmospheric air for the degradation of cefixime (CFX), a widely consumed and recalcitrant antibiotic. This study achieved a complete degradation of CFX using an NTP technology in 8 min treatment time at 6 kV and 20 kHz applied AC voltage and frequency, respectively using a high voltage alternating current power supply unit. An energy yield of 0.42 g/kWh was estimated. The degradation of the pollutant was influenced by solution flow rate, applied voltage and the solution characteristics. Five degradation by-products were identified based on quadrupole time-of-flight (Q-TOF) mass spectrum (MS) analysis and a possible degradation pathway for the pollutant was proposed. Also, radical scavenger experiments were set up to understand the specific chemical species facilitating CFX degradation. The effect of Fe2+ catalyst on the degradation of CFX was investigated in the aqueous solution. This low-cost metal ion catalyst has been known to improve the degradation of organic compounds by facilitating the oxidizing power of H2O2. Considering this, a new idea was examined in this study which was the degradation of the antibiotic in the presence of both Fe2+ catalyst and some radical scavengers (iso-propyl alcohol – IPA, tert-butyl alcohol – TBA, and sodium hydrogen carbonate – NaHCO3). When Fe2+ was introduced into CFX solutions containing TBA, IPA and NaHCO3, respectively, the degradation and kinetics increased by at least 33 %. In these mixed additives, the degradation of the pollutant was enhanced by the consumption of H2O2.

Oral alkalinizing supplementation suppressed intrarenal reactive oxidative stress in mild-stage chronic kidney disease: a randomized cohort study.

The beneficial effects of oral supplements with alkalinizing agents in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) have been limited to the severe stages. We investigated whether two types of supplements, sodium bicarbonate (SB) and potassium citrate/sodium citrate (PCSC), could maintain renal function in patients with mild-stage CKD. This was a single-center, open-labeled, randomized cohort trial. Study participants with CKD stages G2, G3a, and G3b were enrolled between March 2013 and January 2019 and randomly assigned by stratification according to age, sex, estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), and diabetes. They were followed up for 6months (short-term study) for the primary endpoints and extended to 2years (long-term study) for the secondary endpoints. Supplementary doses were adjusted to achieve an early morning urinary pH of 6.8-7.2. We observed renal dysfunction or new-onset cerebrovascular disease and evaluated urinary surrogate markers for renal injury. Overall, 101 participants were registered and allocated to three groups: standard (n = 32), SB (n = 34), and PCSC (n = 35). Two patients in the standard group attained the primary endpoints (renal stones and overt proteinuria) but were not statistically significant. There was one patient in the standard reduced eGFR during the long-term study (p = 0.042 by ANOVA). SB increased proteinuria (p = 0.0139, baseline vs. 6months), whereas PCSC significantly reduced proteinuria (p = 0.0061, baseline vs. 1year, or p = 0.0186, vs. 2years) and urinary excretion of 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine (p = 0.0481, baseline vs. 6months). This study is the first to report supplementation of PCSC reduced intrarenal oxidative stress in patients with mild-stage CKD.

Effects of incorporating cellulose fibers from Yucca treculeana L. on the thermal characteristics of green composites based on high-density poly-ethylene: An eco-friendly material for cleaner production

This work has developed advanced technical applications in clean production based on a biocomposite high-density polyethylene (HDPE) reinforced cellulosic Yucca treculeana L. fibers (YTFs) from agriculture waste leaves. Once the extraction was complete, the fibers were chemically treated with a low concentration (3% for 4 h) of sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO₃) to remove impurities from their surface and increase their adhesion capacity. Furthermore, this work aimed to understand how adding YTFs (10%, 20%, and 30%) influences the dynamic properties of the polymer-based clean production biocomposites. The impact of the additions on the damping behavior in terms of loss modulus (E″), storage modulus (E′), glass transition temperature (Tg), and loss factor (tanδ) of YTFs/HDPE biocomposites was evaluated at a frequency of 1 Hz using the dynamic mechanical analysis. In particular. According to the results, E′ is significantly improved by adding YTFs. Furthermore, to reach a Tg of about 80 °C, YF30/HDPE offers a tanδ of 0.164, an E′ of 2491 MPa, and an E″ of 223 MPa. Scanning electron microscope images reveal a fiber-polymer interface that adheres firmly to the HDPE matrix. This study highlights the promising potential of YF/HDPE biocomposites as sustainable and cost-effective replacements for conventional materials in diverse applications. Indeed, given its load-bearing capacity and recyclability, this type of biocomposites would be a wise choice for manufacturing automotive interior trim, sporting goods, and eco-friendly building materials. Further research and development could optimize the properties of these biocomposites and extend their use to various cleaner production industries.