Total Nitrite Research Articles

Application a solar-powered sediment lifting device in silver barb fish culture

ABSTRACT This study assessed the effectiveness of a solar-powered sediment lifting device (SSLD) in a fish pond. The experiment was conducted by installing the SSLD in a pond with silver barb (Barbonymus gonionotus) for 150 days. The study showed that total ammonia nitrogen and nitrite in the pond without the SSLD were significantly higher than in the pond with the SSLD (p < .05). The total nitrogen, total phosphorus, total organic matter, and total organic carbon in the sediments, were significantly higher in the pond without the device than in the pond with the SSLD (p < .05). Weight gain and daily weight gain of the fish in the pond with the SSLD were higher than in the pond without the device (p < .05). This experiment revealed that installing the SSLD in fish pond culture decreases total organic matter in the water and sediments of the pond.

Selecting effluent outfall location in small rivers using proper water quality models based on effluent and local characteristics

ABSTRACT This study presents a methodology to determine the appropriate location for effluent disposal in a low-flow river using numerical modelling, via a case study of a river located in Southern Brazil, considering disposal of landfill leachate with known characteristics. There are four key steps: 1) a principal component analysis (PCA) for a set of representative parameters; 2) a decision flowchart for proper water quality models; 3) a modified Water Quality Index (WQI) using the resulting concentrations and 4) simulation on 1D and 2D models and WQI calculation and evaluation. The PCA highlights eight relevant parameters: ammonia (NH3), chloride (Cl−), biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), total phosp horus, nitrite (NO2 −), nitrate (NO3 −), dissolved oxygen (DO) and total dissolved solids. Two models were considered suitable: HEC-RAS (1D) and SisBaHiA (2DH). After simulating the parameters in both models, a WQI was calculated for each location. Both HEC-RAS and SisBaHiA lead to the same effluent outfall location, showing that spatial discretisation does not affect the results.

Therapeutic potential of flavonoids in ovalbumin induced asthma in mice model.

Desmodium triquetrum DC (Fabaceae) is a plant commonly used in Indian traditional medicine to treat allergies. Asthma is a severe condition, with an estimated 300 million deaths annually, which could increase to 400 million by 2025. Flavonoids, a class of compounds found in many plants, have been found to have beneficial effects in treating asthma. In this study, researchers focused on three flavonoids, Baicalein, Naringin, and Neohesperidin, derived from Desmodium triquetrum DC, to investigate their potential as a treatment for asthma. The study used an aerosolized ovalbumin-induced asthma model to evaluate the effects of the flavonoids on various substances in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, including total differential leukocyte, nitrite, nitrate, TNF, IL-4, and IL-13. The researchers also measured the levels of myeloperoxidase and malondialdehyde in the lungs. The results showed that ovalbumin-induced airway hyper-responsiveness led to a significant increase in pro-inflammatory cytokine levels. However, the flavonoids significantly decreased the severity of airway inflammation. Histopathology results also supported the effectiveness of the flavonoids. These findings suggest that these flavonoids could be a supplementary and alternative treatment for asthma by inhibiting the pro-inflammatory pathway. The findings suggest that the isolated compounds have the potential to act cumulatively to decrease the levels of the tested cytokines, normalize eosinophil and activated lymphocyte counts, and significantly reduce MPO and MDA. This indicates a possible respiratory mechanism of action for the drugs.

Ingested nitrate and nitrite and end-stage renal disease in licensed pesticide applicators and spouses in the Agricultural Health Study

BackgroundNitrate and nitrite ingestion has been linked to kidney cancer, possibly via the endogenous formation of carcinogenic N-nitroso compounds. These exposures might also contribute to end-stage renal disease (ESRD).ObjectivesWe investigated associations of drinking water nitrate and dietary nitrate and nitrite intakes (total and by food type) with incident ESRD in the Agricultural Health Study. We also explored modifying effects of vitamin C and heme iron intake, which may affect endogenous nitrosation.MethodsWe performed complete case analyses among private pesticide applicators and their spouses. We obtained water nitrate estimates for participants whose primary drinking water source at enrollment (1993−1997) was public water supplies (PWS) or private wells (N = 59,632). Average nitrate concentrations were computed from historical data for PWS users and predicted from random forest models for private well users. Analysis of dietary nitrate and nitrite was restricted to the 30,177 participants who completed the NCI Dietary History Questionnaire during follow-up (1999−2003). Incident ESRD through 2018 was ascertained through linkage with the U.S. Renal Data System. We estimated adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) and 95%CI for associations of tertiles (T) of exposure with ESRD overall and explored effects in strata of vitamin C and heme iron intake.ResultsWe identified 469 incident ESRD cases (206 for dietary analysis). Water nitrate and total dietary nitrate/nitrite were not associated with ESRD, but increased ESRD was associated with nitrate and nitrite from processed meats. We found apparent associations between nitrite and ESRD only among participants with vitamin C <median (T3 vs. T1 HR: 2.26, 95%CI: 1.05, 4.86) and with heme iron ≥median (T3 vs. T1 HR: 1.73, 95%CI: 0.89, 3.39).SignificanceESRD incidence was associated with dietary nitrate/nitrite from processed meat among all study participants and with total dietary nitrite among participants with lower vitamin C or higher heme iron intake.Impact statementThere are few well-established environmental risk factors for end-stage renal disease (ESRD), a worldwide public health challenge. Ingestion of nitrate and nitrite, which may lead to endogenous formation of carcinogenic N-nitroso compounds, has been linked to some cancers and chronic diseases. We investigated these exposures in relation to ESRD in an agricultural cohort. ESRD incidence was associated with dietary nitrate/nitrite from processed meat and with total dietary nitrite among subgroups with lower vitamin C or higher heme iron intake. This study provides preliminary evidence that points to dietary nitrite and possibly dietary nitrate intake as a potential contributor to ESRD.

Oxalis corniculata and Ficus religiosa mitigates rotenone-induced Parkinson’s disease in Swiss Albino mice: Mechanistic insights and therapeutic potential

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder distinguished by the presence of progressive deterioration of the nervous system and is prevalent among the elderly population. The pathological hallmark of PD involves the accumulation of the protein alpha-synuclein and neuronal inflammation, which leads to the degeneration of dopaminergic (DAergic) neurons. In the present study, neuroprotective effect of combinational extract of Ficus religiosa (F. religiosa) and Oxalis corniculata (O. corniculata) L. in a mouse PD model. By giving Rotenone (ROT) on alternate days subcutaneously for 21 days, a disease model was generated. Extracts were administered individually as well as in combination orally 1 hour before ROT (1.5 mg/kg, s.c.) administration. On day 22nd, after sacrificing of animals neurochemical assays [total protein content (TPC), malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), nitrite (NO)], neurotransmitter analysis, and histology of the brain were performed. Results of the study showed a significant increase in the level of TPC, CAT, SOD, GSH, and dopamine in substantia nigra and a significant reduction of MDA, NO, and glutamate after administration of F. religiosa and O. corniculata in combination (200 + 500 mg/kg, p.o.) in a ROT induced model. This study demonstrated that a combination of F. religiosa and O. corniculata improved motor symptoms and reduced dopaminergic neuron death in mice challenged with ROT.

Evaluation of physical and chemical characteristics of wastewater and sludge of Zahedan urban wastewater treatment plant for reuse

Following the water shortage in the world, the use of wastewater as a sustainable resource has been considered in large volume. The study conducted to evaluate the physical and chemical characteristics of the wastewater and sludge of the Zahedan urban wastewater treatment plant showed that the wastewater and sludge treatment system of the treatment plant has high efficiency and effectiveness in removing the investigated parameters. The investigated parameters in the effluent included Chemical oxygen demand (COD), Biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), and Total suspended solids (TSS), turbidity, temperature, nitrate, nitrite, phosphate, pH, zinc, cobalt, lead and copper. Also, the investigated parameters in the sludge included Mixed liquor suspended solids (MLSS), Mixed liquor volatile suspended solids (MLVSS), pH, electrical conductivity and heavy metals. The results showed that the average concentration of metals in the treated effluent is Zn > Mn > Cu > Pb > Ni > Cr > Cd ،and Chemical oxygen demand and Biochemical oxygen demand in the effluent of this treatment plant are on average 171 and 44.4 mg/L, respectively, and its discharge in surface water is limited, but it can be applied for agriculture. Also, the purified sludge had the necessary standards and could be used as soil or household fertilizer and compost for agricultural land.

Pollution level in Domas coastal waters based on some water quality parameters

The coastal area of Banten Bay has a high population and industrial growth, which can harm the aquatic environment. Domas coastal waters are one of the water areas located on the east coast of Banten Bay. This study aims to determine the water pollution level in Domas coastal waters, Banten Bay, based on water quality parameters. This study was conducted from August 2021 to January 2022 at six sites. The data were compared with the quality standards for marine biota based on Indonesian Government Regulation No. 22 of 2021, and the quality status based on the Nemerow Pollution Index according to the Decree of the Minister of Environment No. 115 of 2003. The values of each parameter during the research were temperature (29.27-29.80°C), turbidity (4.62-22.13 NTU), total suspended solid (12.72-69.07 mg L-1), pH (7), dissolved oxygen (6.32-6.63 mg L-1), salinity (30.67-31.67 ppt), ammonia (0.15-0.44 mg L-1), nitrite (0.03-0.08 mg L-1), nitrate (1.23-1.66 mg L-1), and total phosphate (0.11-0.15 mg L-1). The results of this study showed that Domas coastal waters have been indicated to be moderately polluted (5.7-5.9).

Design of equilibrium modified atmosphere packaging for postharvest cabbages preservation based on introducing available active sites into film materials as gas transport channels

This work aims to explore an available avenue to design an equilibrium modified atmosphere packaging (EMAP) by the modification of gas permeability of material. In this work, the introduction of available active sites endowed materials with adjustable gas permeability properties. With varying concentrations of the resulting materials with various gas permeability, the CO2 and O2 gas permeability of the blending films were modified at the range of 3.92 ∼ 17.84 barrier and 0.65 ∼ 3.46 barrier, respectively. On this basis, the films were used as EMAP to preserve postharvest cabbages. The results indicated that each EMAP achieved an equilibrium atmosphere containing 6.8 % ∼ 3.8 % CO2 and 2.1 % ∼ 5.2 % O2 within 15 h and maintained it continuously. In these atmosphere, the respiratory rate of the preserved cabbages was significantly inhibited, thereby delaying the deterioration of their storage quality. As the results, sensory scores of the preserved samples were maximally maintained. Declines of color indexes and texture indexes were obviously inhibited. Chemical variations in chlorophyll content, total phenolics content, total flavonoids content, ascorbic acid and nitrite content were significantly suppressed. The overall findings revealed that this method is suitable and promising to develop EMAP for the postharvest vegetables.

Assessment of surface water quality: Case study of Oued Fez catchment areas (Morocco)

Under sustainable development conditions, water quality and quantity play a crucial role in meeting basic human needs. To meet the growing demand for water, surface water quality management is an important aspect. Consequently, water quality must be monitored and assessed via the use of innovative techniques, such as water quality index (SEQ-Water).For that purpose, water quality of Oued Fez catchment areas was evaluated according to Moroccan water quality guidelines by using the weighted quality index (SEQ-Water), physicochemical parameters, trace elements and bacteriological characterization. Five Sites were chosen after a diagnosis based on different criteria such as activity and density of population. These sites were Amont oued Fez (S1), Oued Fez (S2), Oued Ljawahir (S3), Oued Tgat (S4) and Oued Ain Smen (S5). Physicochemical quality was determined by evaluating Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD), total Kjeldhal nitrogen (NTK), suspended solids (SS), nitrates (NO3-), nitrites (NO2-), ammonium (NH4+), sulphates (SO42-), total phosphorus (TP) and trace elements (Cr, Cd, Cu, Ni, Co, Pb and Zn). Bacteriological analyses were carried out by testing enumeration of total coliforms (TC) and fecal coliforms (FC).Except Oued Ain Smen, physico-chemical parameters exceed by far the Moroccan standards of surface water quality. High concentrations of Se, Cd, Pb and As were detected. Fecal and total coliforms were also present at all sites, and varied from 1150 CF/100 mL to 100,000 CF/100 mL. All results were statistically validated with a p value < 0.05. Overall quality of the water sites assessed basing on the concept of the weight quality index, showed high pollution of the Oued Fez catchments. System based on the concept of the weighted quality index (SEQ-Water) is a suitable method to monitor point sources of pollution in surface water, and could provide a crude guideline for selecting the priorities of possible preventative measures in the proper management of the surface water resources.To summarize, it would be dangerous to use water from these rivers for domestic and agricultural purposes without some form of physical and chemical treatment. Sensitization of the authorities on the extent of water pollution of this Oued and the harmful consequences for man and the ecosystem should be urgent and mandatory.

Growth Performance of Critically Endangered Hypselobarbus pulchellus in Biofloc Systems with Various C/N Ratios

Background: Biofloc technology relies on adding a carbon source to maintain optimal carbon to nitrogen ratio for transforming the waste into microbial biomass that aquatic animals can use. In the present study, the growth performance of the critically endangered Hypselobarbus pulchellus in biofloc-based seed rearing with different Carbon to Nitrogen ratio was studied. Methods: Healthy early fry (0.01 g) was randomly stocked into 15 circular FRP tanks (1000 L) at a density of 100 individuals/m3 and reared for 90 days. The carbon to nitrogen ratios of 5:1(CN5), 10:1(CN10), 15:1(CN15) and 20:1(CN20) were maintained using jaggery without considering carbon content derived from the feed and the control group received no additional source of carbon. Result: The results indicated that H. pulchellus had better growth performance in biofloc systems having higher C/N ratios. The highest weight gain (0.48±0.01 g) and weight gain percentage (3931.15±120.68%) and specific growth rate (4.11±0.03% per day) were found in the CN10 group (P less than 0.05), followed by CN15 and CN20, while the control group values were lowest. In terms of survival, all treatments had high survival rates ranging from 92% to 94.67%, with no significant variations (P greater than 0.05). The CN10, CN15 and CN20 treatments had significantly higher amylase, protease and lipase activities than control (P less than 0.05). Moreover, the immunological and antioxidant activity increased with CN ratios. The CN10, CN15 and CN20 groups had significantly lower total ammonia nitrogen, nitrite and nitrate levels than control group (P less than 0.05). Overall, this study suggests that C/N ratios of 10:1 to 20:1 are optimal for rearing H. pulchellus fingerlings from early fry, with 10:1 presenting the best growth results.

Effects of environmentally relevant concentrations of micro(nano)plastics on aquatic microorganisms: Changes in potential function but not in overall composition

Micro(nano)plastics (MNPs) are a growing problem as persistent environmental pollutants. Here, we investigated the impact of MNPs on microorganisms in aquatic microbial floc exposed to NPs (80 ​nm) and MPs (8 ​μm) for 35 days. Water quality indicators were tested weekly and microbiological analyses were conducted on Day 7 and 28 after exposure. The results showed that there were significant differences in the levels of total ammonia nitrogen or nitrite between the MNPs groups and the control group, spanning from Day 7 to Day 28. For the microbial response, microbial community richness in the NPs and MPs groups were significantly increased at Day 7. Functional prediction showed that the relative abundances of bacteria associated with the “Forms Biofilms”, “Potentially Pathogenic”, “Plastic Degradation” and nitrogen cycle processes were significantly different after MNPs exposure. The results suggest that MNPs had no significant effect on the microbial diversity of mature microbial flocs. Findings suggest MPs could cause an increase in the relative abundance of potentially pathogenic bacteria, while NPs do not. In addition, stress associated with MNPs affected the nitrogen cycle of microorganisms, and NPs exerted greater impacts than MPs. Findings from this study further our understanding of the impact of MNPs at environmentally relevant concentrations on microorganisms in aquatic ecosystems.

Study on Nutrients Concentration Trends in Tukad Badung River Toward Nutrient Recovery Potential

This study addresses the urgent concern of water quality degradation resulting from untreated domestic wastewater discharge, with a specific focus on nutrient trends within an aquatic ecosystem. The investigation centres on ammonium (NH4 +) as a significant contaminant sourced from residual foods, hygiene practices, and fertilizers, known for its association with eutrophication—characterized by excessive algae growth and oxygen depletion. The study aims to offer comprehensive insights by meticulously analysing water quality parameters across six distinct sampling points. Data collection encompassed total suspended solids (TSS), ammonia (NH4 +), nitrite (NO2 −), nitrate (NO3 −), total phosphate (PO4 −), and total nitrogen (TN). Notable variations were observed: TSS concentrations ranged from 9.00 mg/L to 20.00 mg/L, NH4 + concentrations spanned 0.00 mg/L to 1.96 mg/L, NO2- and NO3 − levels varied from 0.00 mg/L to 0.16 mg/L and 1.19 mg/L to 1.91 mg/L, respectively, PO4 3- content ranged from 0.01 mg/L to 0.65 mg/L, and TN concentrations fluctuated between 1.36 mg/L and 3.31 mg/L. These findings underscore the complexity of water quality dynamics and highlight the need for integrated management strategies to mitigate nutrient pollution’s impact on aquatic ecosystems.

Characterization of the physicochemical Properties, bacterial community and non-volatile profiles of fermented Yu jiangsuan by Weissella cibaria and Lactobacillus plantarum

Yu jiangsuan (YJS) is a unique traditional fermented condiment in China. Physicochemical, bacterial communities, and non-volatile properties were examined in inoculation Autochthonous Weissella cibaria and Lactobacillus plantarum. The results indicated that inoculation samples did well in shortening fermentation time; amino acid nitrogen (AN) and TCA-soluble peptide contents of fermented YJS were 10.8% and 17.4% higher than those of naturally fermented YJS, respectively. However, its total volatile base nitrogen (TVB-N), thiobarbituric acid (TBARS), and nitrite were only 74.3%, 87.2% and 83.6% of those of naturally fermented YJS. In addition, the dominant bacterial genera were Lactobacillus, Weissella and Pectobacterium, whose contributions were 41.2%, 20.3% and 5.5%, respectively. Moreover, 26 significantly differential metabolites were identified, and involved in 10 metabolic pathways. The decomposition of substrates and the formation of differential metabolites in YJS were primarily centered on the TCA cycle and the metabolism of carbohydrates. Therefore, this study is conducive to discovering the bacterial community structure and metabolite composition of probiotic inoculated YJS fermentation, as well as the potential value of core functional bacteria genera in controlling YJS production in industry.

The Water Chemistry Quality of the Ex-sand Mining Sites in Gantar District, West Java, for Freshwater Fish Cultivation

Sand mining activities in Gantar District, Indramayu Regency, West Java, have changed water morphology and quality. Many ex-sand mining areas have left large ponds that have not been utilized optimally by the community around the mining area. The research aims to analyze the suitability of water quality in the ex-sand mining area for freshwater fish cultivation. Observations in three water ponds in Bantarwaru Village, Gantar District, in August 2022. Water quality measurements in situ and the laboratory. Water quality parameters observed in situ measured temperature, water depth, brightness, dissolved oxygen (DO), and pH. Laboratory measurements included TSS, TDS, BOD, COD, and chemical elements such as total phosphate, nitrate, nitrite, ammonia, sulfate, and iron. The data obtained were analyzed descriptively by making comparisons with the standard water quality based on standards of Government Regulation Number 22 of 2021 concerning Management of Water Quality and Control of Water Pollution. To find out how suitable the suitability for freshwater fish farming is. Suitability analysis using the weighting and scoring method. The scoring results for ex-sand mining ponds for freshwater fish farming are 81–91% and classified as moderately to highly suitable. This score is good for freshwater fish cultivation.

Culture condition optimization of naturally lacto-fermented cucumbers based on changes in detrimental and functional ingredients.

A two-step trial was used to optimize the culture condition of naturally lacto-fermented cucumbers. In the first trial, changes in pH values and total biogenic amines were measured to optimize the pickling juice formula. A 15% crystal sugar solution with low-salt brine at 4°C was proved to be the best formula. In the second trial, pH values, organic acids, total phenolics, flavonoids, saponins and free amino acids, as well as biogenic amines and nitrites under the optimal pickling formula were measured. The optimal fermentation day was suggested at around 8days. During the cucumber's fermentation process, the pH value was quickly lowered to <4.6. Meanwhile, the functional ingredients increased significantly. In contrast, total biogenic amines and nitrites did not exceed the risk limit, evidencing the safety and functional characteristics for the naturally lacto-fermented cucumbers. The two-step trial has evidenced the possibility to develop desirable lacto-fermented cucumbers.

Assessment of hydrogeochemistry in groundwater using water quality index model and indices approaches

Groundwater resources around the world required periodic monitoring in order to ensure the safe and sustainable utilization for humans by keeping the good status of water quality. However, this could be a daunting task for developing countries due to the insufficient data in spatiotemporal resolution. Therefore, this research work aimed to assess groundwater quality in terms of drinking and irrigation purposes at the adjacent part of the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant (RNPP) in Bangladesh. For the purposes of achieving the aim of this study, nine groundwater samples were collected seasonally (dry and wet season) and seventeen hydro-geochemical indicators were analyzed, including Temperature (Temp.), pH, electrical conductivity (EC), total dissolved solids (TDS), total alkalinity (TA), total hardness (TH), total organic carbon (TOC), bicarbonate (HCO3−), chloride (Cl−), phosphate (PO43−), sulfate (SO42−), nitrite (NO2−), nitrate (NO3−), sodium (Na+), potassium (K+), calcium (Ca2+) and magnesium (Mg2+). The present study utilized the Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment water quality index (CCME-WQI) model to assess water quality for drinking purposes. In addition, nine indices including EC, TDS, TH, sodium adsorption ratio (SAR), percent sodium (Na%), permeability index (PI), Kelley's ratio (KR), magnesium hazard ratio (MHR), soluble sodium percentage (SSP), and Residual sodium carbonate (RSC) were used in this research for assessing the water quality for irrigation purposes. The computed mean CCME-WQI score found higher during the dry season (ranges 48 to 74) than the wet season (ranges 40 to 65). Moreover, CCME-WQI model ranked groundwater quality between the “poor” and “marginal” categories during the wet season implying unsuitable water for human consumption. Like CCME-WQI model, majority of the irrigation index also demonstrated suitable water for crop cultivation during dry season. The findings of this research indicate that it requires additional care to improve the monitoring programme for protecting groundwater quality in the RNPP area. Insightful information from this study might be useful as baseline for national strategic planners in order to protect groundwater resources during the any emergencies associated with RNPP.

Preeklamptik Anne ve Bebeklerinde Asimetrik Dimetil Arjinin ve Oksidan/Antioksidan Düzeyi

Aim: It is thought that asymmetric dimethyl arginine(ADMA) level is significantly higher in pregnant&#x0D; women with preeclampsia compared to healthy pregnant women, ADMA elevation develops before&#x0D; the clinical signs of preeclampsia, and ADMA plays a role in the pathogenesis of preeclampsia. In this&#x0D; study, it was aimed to investigate whether serum ADMA, total nitrite and nitrate (NOx), arginine and&#x0D; total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and levels in placenta samples taken from healthy and preeclamptic&#x0D; pregnant women and their babies are associated with preeclampsia, whether preeclampsia can be&#x0D; detected beforehand with these markers, and whether possible problems that may develop in the&#x0D; mother and baby can be prevented as a result.&#x0D; Material and Methods: 62 pregnant women and their babies who were followed up in Zonguldak&#x0D; Bülent Ecevit University obstetrics service are divided two groups; 31 preeclamptic pregnant and babies&#x0D; (Group I), formed Patient group; 31 pregnant and babies without preeclampsia (Group II), formed&#x0D; Control Group. Blood samples were obtained from mothers before birth, from the cord during birth, from&#x0D; babies in first 24 hours after birth and placenta samples were obtained from each pregnant to evaluate&#x0D; in the study. Age, weight, initial pregnancy state, pregnancy period, systolic and diastolic blood pressure&#x0D; levels of mothers with and without pre-eclampsia diagnosis, while birth weights, genders, problems and&#x0D; complications during treatment process, clinic and laboratory properties, prognosis, ADMA, arginine,&#x0D; NOx and TAC levels of babies were examined in this study.&#x0D; Results: There was no significant difference between two groups about antenatal factors that effect&#x0D; on prognosis. In the comparison of blood values, ADMA level of preeclamptic group was significantly&#x0D; higher (p

Long-term effective remediation of black-odorous water via regulating calcium nitrate sustained-release.

Nitrate addition is reported as a cost-effective method for remediating black-odorous water, which is mainly induced by the deficiency of electron acceptor. However, excessive release of nitrate and lack of long-term effectiveness significantly limited the application of direct nitrate dosing technology. Herein, for remediating black-odorous water, we constructed a nitrate sustained-release ecological concrete (ecoN-concrete), in which calcium nitrate (Ca(NO3)2) was dosed into concrete block to regulate the release of nitrate. The results showed that chemical oxygen demand (COD), turbidity, ammonia, phosphate, and sulfate were significantly removed in an ecoN-concrete-contained reactor fed with black-odorous water, and its removal efficiency was largely dependent on Ca(NO3)2 dosage. Meanwhile, the released nitrate was lower than 25% of its total dosage and nitrite was lower than 1.5mg/L during 14days remediation. After three recycles, the removal efficiencies of COD and turbidity by using ecoN-concrete were still more than 85%, indicating an excellent nitrate sustained-release performance of ecoN-concrete, which can be applied for preventing water re-blackening and re-stinking. Further investigation illustrated that the ecoN-concrete (1) decreased the abundance of Desulfovibrio, Desulfomonile, and Desulforhabdus in the phylum of Desulfobacterota to alleviate the odorous gas production and (2) significantly increased the abundance of Bacillus and Thermomonas, which utilized the released-nitrate for consuming organic matters and ammonia. This study provided an artful Ca(NO3)2 dosing strategy and long-term effective method for black-odorous water remediation.

Mechanistic Protective Effect of Cilostazol in Cisplatin-Induced Testicular Damage via Regulation of Oxidative Stress and TNF-α/NF-κB/Caspase-3 Pathways.

Despite being a potent anticancer drug, cisplatin has limited applicability due to its adverse effects, such as testicular damage. Consequently, reducing its toxicity becomes necessary. In this study, a selective phosphodiesterase-3 inhibitor, cilostazol, which is used to treat intermittent claudication, was examined for its ability to abrogate cisplatin-induced testicular toxicity. Its ameliorative effect was compared to that of two phosphodiesterase inhibitors, tadalafil and pentoxifylline. The study also focused on the possible mechanisms involved in the proposed protective effect. Cisplatin-treated rats showed a significant decrease in sperm number and motility, serum testosterone, and testicular glutathione levels, as well as a significant elevation in malondialdehyde, total nitrite levels, and the protein expression of tumor necrosis factor-alpha, nuclear factor-kappa β, and caspase-3. These outcomes were confirmed by marked testicular architecture deterioration. Contrary to this, cilostazol, in a dose-dependent manner, showed potential protection against testicular toxicity, reversed the disrupted testicular function, and improved histological alterations through rebalancing of oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis. In addition, cilostazol exerted a more pronounced protective effect in comparison to tadalafil and pentoxifylline. In conclusion, cilostazol ameliorates cisplatin-induced testicular impairment through alteration of oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptotic pathways, offering a promising treatment for cisplatin-induced testicular damage.

Novel Gastroprotective and Thermostable Cocrystal of Dimethyl Fumarate: Its Preparation, Characterization, and In Vitro and In Vivo Evaluation.

Crystallization has revolutionized the field of solid-state formulations by modulating the physiochemical and release profile of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). Dimethyl fumarate (DF), an FDA-approved first-line drug for relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis, has a sublimation problem, leading to loss of the drug during its processing. To tackle this problem, DF cocrystal has been prepared by using solvent evaporation technique using nicotinamide as a coformer, which has been chosen based on in silico predictions and their ability to participate in hydrogen bonding. Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR), powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and sublimation analysis have characterized the cocrystal and its thermostability. Comparative analysis of the release profile has been done by the dissolution and pharmacokinetic study of DF and its cocrystal. Formulated cocrystal is noncytotoxic, antioxidant and inhibits interleukin-6 and tissue necrosis factor-α in peripheral blood mononuclear cells induced by lipopolysaccharide. We have obtained a thermostable cocrystal of DF with a similar physicochemical and release profile to that of DF. The formulated cocrystal also provides a gastroprotective effect which helps counterbalance the adverse effects of DF by reducing lipid peroxidation and total nitrite levels.