Use Of Bottles Research Articles

Patterns of complementary feeding introduction and associated factors in a cohort of Brazilian infants

BackgroundUnderstanding the timing of food introduction in infants is essential for promoting optimal complementary feeding practices. However, existing studies often rely on cross-sectional data, limiting the ability to capture age-specific patterns. We aimed to describe food introduction during the first year of life by identifying patterns related to age at food introduction and associated factors in a cohort of Brazilian infants.MethodsData were collected through standardized questionnaires administered to mothers via face-to-face interviews during the infant’s first month of life and at 3, 6, 9, and 12 months of age. Additionally, two telephone interviews were conducted at 2 and 4 months of age. Information regarding food intake was assessed using a list of 48 foods, with two key aspects recorded: whether the food was introduced (yes/no) and the age at introduction. To define food introduction patterns, we employed k-means cluster analysis. Hierarchical Poisson multiple regression was employed to examine the associations between sociodemographic, biological, and healthcare factors and patterns of food introduction.ResultsThree distinct patterns were identified and named according to their main characteristics: Pattern 1 – “Low Infant Formula and Timely CF Introduction”; Pattern 2 – “High Infant Formula and Early CF Introduction”; and Pattern 3 – “High Infant Formula and Later Ultra-processed Food Introduction”. Breastfeeding at six months showed a positive association with Pattern 1 (PR = 1.40; 95% CI = 1.10–1.80), while bottle use at four months was negatively associated with Pattern 1 (PR = 0.68; 95% CI = 0.53–0.87). No variables studied exhibited an association with Pattern 2. For Pattern 3, higher prevalences were observed among children whose mothers were aged < 20 years (PR = 1.54; 95% CI = 1.13–2.01) or > 34 years (PR = 1.42; 95% CI = 1.04–1.93). Not receiving guidance on the recommended duration of breastfeeding and complementary feeding during prenatal care was associated with a higher prevalence of children in this pattern (PR = 1.35; 95% CI = 1.01–1.80).ConclusionsWe identified three distinct patterns of age at food introduction in the study population, although none perfectly aligned with Brazilian or WHO dietary recommendations. These findings underscore the need for targeted interventions to promote timely and healthy complementary feeding practices in Brazilian infants.

A-314 Influence of EDTA on TSH and 17-OHP in Newborn Screening: A Case Study

Abstract Background A 9-month-old infant presented with developmental motor delay. Comprehensive evaluation including microarray and brain MRI revealed no specific abnormalities except for hypotonicity. The patient's perinatal history, including newborn screening test (NST), showed no remarkable findings. Additionally, the infant exhibited facial dysmorphism and microcephaly, leading to another NST to explore potential metabolic diseases. Upon NST, Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone (TSH) levels were 1.86 and 1.27 mlU/L (duplicate testing results; reference value: &amp;lt;12 mlU/L), 17-Hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP) levels were 0.55 and 0.48 ng/mL (duplicate testing results; reference value adjusted for body weight: &amp;lt;5.0 ng/mL), and total Galactose (Gal) and Galactose-1-Phosphate (Gal-1-P) levels were 1.68 mg/dL (reference value: &amp;lt;8 mg/dL). Methods Upon inspection of the dried blood spot (DBS) sample, the DBS used for the tests partially appeared to be inadequately collected on the absorbent filter paper, which could cause errors related to the disc and specimen itself. Consequently, re-sampling and re-testing were necessary to ensure accuracy. A second NST was performed with the new DBS samples. In the second NST results, most parameters were within the allowable ranges. However, the TSH levels were notably below the detectable limit (&amp;lt;0.7 mlU/L), and the 17-OHP levels were significantly elevated at 332ng/mL, diverging markedly from the initial NST results. To ensure reliability of the measured test results, TSH levels were analyzed using both the existing PerkinElmer equipment and compared with results from a Cobas 8000 system (Roche) and mass spectrometry. Similarly, 17-OHP levels were also compared using mass spectrometry. Results Upon comparing the TSH results, both analytical methods (PerkinElmer and Roche) yielded identical outcomes. However, significant discrepancy was observed when compared to mass spectrometry results. Review of the relevant testing batches showed no significant quality control issues with the NST, leading to clinical suspicion of ethylene-diamine-tetraacetic acid (EDTA)-induced interference. According to existing literature, when NST are conducted using the lanthanide fluorescence method, distortions can occur in DBS containing EDTA, depending on the concentration of EDTA present. In such cases, the EDTA-induced interference may result in false-negative TSH and false-positive 17-OHP results. These discrepancies can be differentiated using standard MS/MS testing. With regards to our case, upon enquiry, the second DBS sample was revealed to be collected from an existing EDTA sample rather than directly from the patient. Thus, adequate DBS discs from the initial sample were obtained and re-analyzed for NST using mass spectrometry, with final results reporting no specific abnormalities. Conclusions The discrepancies observed in TSH and 17-OHP levels between the first and second set of DBS samples were found to be unrelated to other laboratory factors, such as quality control issues. Instead, they were conclusively identified as false-negative and false-positive results associated with interference due to the use of EDTA-containing collection bottles. Mass spectrometry analysis was able to confirm the interference. Clinical awareness should be promoted in order to prevent EDTA-induced interference in NST.

Resolving Tongue Entrapment: A Comprehensive Review with Case Report

AbstractObjectiveTo report a case of oral tongue entrapment due to a metal water bottle and review clinical considerations for managing this rare pathology.Study DesignCase report and literature review.SettingTertiary care hospital.MethodsA 6‐year‐old female presented with her tongue trapped in a threaded aluminum water bottle. Upon admission, her tongue was edematous and actively bleeding, though she was spontaneously breathing. A systematic review was then performed to document similar case studies found in the literature.ResultsEmergency removal of the foreign body was performed in the operating room using drill cutting burrs and metal shears. The bottle was successfully removed with minimal injury to the oral tongue. The patient required nasal intubation for seven days to allow the tongue edema to subside. Subsequent literature review identified 14 similar cases, with the vast majority occurring with similar brand of aluminum water bottle.ConclusionThe increasing use of reusable bottles may lead to a higher incidence of tongue entrapment cases. Awareness of this complication and appropriate management strategies are crucial to prevent severe outcomes in pediatric patients.

Measurement of microplastic release after use of polypropylene nasal irrigation bottles.

Microplastics from plastic materials can affect human health. This study aimed to assess their presence in nasal irrigation fluids obtained from reused bottles based on usage duration. Readily available nasal irrigation bottles made of polypropylene were purchased. Unused irrigation bottles served as controls. Bottles mimicking 1-, 3-, and 6-month reuse were prepared as test samples. Nasal irrigation fluid samples (n=12) were collected from each set of irrigation bottles: three from new control bottles and nine from bottles mimicking 1-, 3-, and 6-month reuse. Raman spectroscopy was employed to detect microplastics in the nasal irrigation samples; the results were compared according to the bottle use duration. An average of 33.00±20.42 (ea/300 mL) microplastic particles was detected in the nasal irrigation fluid from the control bottles relative to an average of 68.66±30.07, 261.66±20.59, and 204.33±52.16 (ea/300 mL) from bottles used for 1, 3, and 6 months, respectively. The majority of the detected microplastics were 10-100 μm in size and fragmentshaped in form. The predominant microplastic was polypropylene, indicating direct release from irrigation bottles. We found microplastics in nasal irrigation fluids, likely originating from the repeated use of nasal irrigation bottles. The quantity of microplastics was notably elevated in the samples obtained from bottles simulating 3 months of use compared to those in the control samples. Thus, we propose developing guidelines regulating the duration of nasal irrigation bottle usage to mitigate microplastic infiltration into the body through the sinonasal cavity.

Assessing Health and Environmental Risks: Educational Awareness on Plastic Usage and Solid Waste Disposal in Bahawalpur

The review paper explores the increasing challenges posed by plastic pollution and improper solid waste management in Bahawalpur. The population has continued to increase, and there is ever-increasing urbanization; this has contributed to the increase in plastic and solid waste production, such as the single use of plastic bags and bottles. These waste materials contribute to environmental degradation, affecting soil quality and contaminating water systems. Improper disposal contributes to public health challenges like respiratory and waterborne diseases and vector-borne ailments like malaria and dengue fever. A fully equipped waste management framework is needed to solve more problems in Bahawalpur; this leads to a filled drainage system, urban flooding, and the discharge of hazardous wastes. The review also explains the level of community health education used to ensure sustainable waste management practices are practiced. Hence, the paper encourages the involvement and expansion of community-based programs and public or private-founded collaboration to support and practice recycling and the appropriate management and minimization of single-use plastics. Smart solutions are also briefly touched upon as potential solutions, including implementing waste-to-energy plants and smart bins. Consequently, this review calls for enhanced stewardship, more specific to public sensitization against further pollution of Bahawalpur and other similar urban settings by plastic and solid waste.

Peran Ibu dalam Menumbuhkan Ekoliterasi pada Anak Kelompok B TKIT Azkia Aceh Besar

Growing awareness of loving the environment in early childhood is an investment for the future. When children are raised by taking care of the environment, the environment will take care of them in the future, and vice versa. The aim of this research is to analyze the role of mothers in fostering ecoliteracy in TKIT Azkia group B children. This research uses qualitative methodology. Data collection methods are interviews, observation and separate document analysis. The results of this research are that mothers provide examples and get children used to using enough water, turning off the water tap after use, cooking for children and providing tumblers for children to drink in, thus minimizing children's frequent snacks outside and the use of single-use plastic bottles.

Analyzing effects on anterior open bite in twins by PLS-SEM and sobel test

ObjectiveThis study aimed to assess the different pathways between predictor factors such as zygosity, atypical swallowing, mouth breathing, breastfeeding and bottle feeding related to anterior open bite (AOB) in twins.MethodsThe study was conducted in monozygotic (MZ) and dizygotic (DZ) twin children aged 3–15 years. AOB, atypical swallowing, mouth breathing, feeding type, duration of bottle use, and mouth opening status during sleep were recorded during oral examination. Partial least squares structural equation model (PLS-SEM) and sobel tests were performed to assess the total and indirect effects among the variables on AOB.ResultsA total of 404 children (29.2% MZ;70.8% DZ) participated in this study. The effect of zygosity on mouth breathing in the PLS-SEM model was statistically significant. Conversely, it was determined that mouth breathing effected that atypical swallowing (p = 0.001). Atypical swallowing triggered AOB (p = 0.001). The atypical swallowing has a mediation effect between AOB and mouth breathing (p = 0.020). Mouth breathing causes atypical swallowing and therefore indirectly increases the likelihood of AOB. While breastfeeding decreases AOB incidence (p = 0.023), bottle feeding increases AOB incidence (p = 0.046). The sobel tests show that the fully mediator variable feature of mouth breathing is statistically significant in the negative relation between zygosity and atypical swallowing.ConclusionThe PLS-SEM model showed that mouth breathing triggers atypical swallowing and atypical swallowing triggers AOB. As a result of this chain of relationships, an indirect effect of zygosity on AOB was observed. According to sobel tests, zygosity has an indirect effect on atypical swallowing through mouth breathing, while mouth breathing has a positive indirect effect on AOB through atypical swallowing.Clinical relevanceThis study identified the relationships between different factors and the presence of AOB. The findings of this study demonstrate in detail the relationships between AOB and zygosity, atypical swallowing, mouth breathing, breastfeeding and bottle feeding. Brestfeeding has a reducing effect on the frequency of AOB. Among the nutritional forms, breastfeeding ensures the proper development of the stomatognathic system by working the oro-facial muscles.

Desiri Naturals: sustainable agriculture and eco-friendly business

Learning outcomes After completion of the case study, the students will be able to critically analyze the business model of Desiri Naturals, analyze the pricing strategy of Desiri Naturals, examine the importance of experiential marketing in the success of an environment-friendly business, identify the challenges faced by new entrepreneurs and evaluate the sustainability practices of Desiri Naturals. Case overview/synopsis This case study discusses the business model of an environmentally friendly business. The challenges and obstacles faced by entrepreneurs are illustrated in this case. The entrepreneurs’ vision to provide chemical-free food is highlighted and their business operations as a means to fulfill this vision are explained. Desiri used an age-old bull-driven method of oil extraction (Ghana). Challenges in pricing due to the availability of low-priced mass-produced edible oil using the solvent extraction process are presented in this case. The entrepreneurs faced the pricing dilemma at the inception of the business, as oil produced using the natural cold pressing method cost three times the selling pricing of solvent-extracted oil. Innovative methods of experiential marketing such as Ghana tourism are explained in this case. This case study also explains the sustainable and natural farming techniques propagated through its network of farmers. This case study provides insights into the scalability of this model and the scope for employment generation in rural India. The environmentally friendly practices followed by Desiri, such as the use of glass bottles and reusable steel containers for packaging oil are emphasized. Finally, this case presents the marketing and operational challenges faced by entrepreneurs in their quest to expand their operations. Complexity academic level This case study can be used by postgraduate and undergraduate students studying marketing, entrepreneurship, sustainability and operations management courses in commerce and business management streams. Supplementary materials Teaching notes are available for educators only. Subject code CSS8: Marketing.

Commitment in Collaborative Policy Innovation: Socio-Economic Development of Coastal Area Coastal Border Area in Nunukan District North Kalimantan Province

Commitment is an attitude that reflects the extent to which an individual knows and is attached to his organization. This research aims to analyze the commitment of each stakeholder in an effort to reduce the use of plastic bottle waste in coastal areas which is used as a float for seaweed. This research uses descriptive qualitative research methods. The results of the research explain that the Nunukan district government is always trying to provide outreach to the community regarding the use of plastic bottle waste which has an impact on the environment. In this case on Affective Commitment It was explained that the Nunukan district government always innovates and supports the community and the private sector in developing innovations related to environmentally friendly or HDPE buoys. The government is currently committed to distributing 400,000 buoys to seaweed farmers by 2024, this will of course also have an impact on the situation. social and economic aspects of coastal communities. Furthermore Continuances Commitment It was explained that not only related to reducing the rate of plastic waste, the government and other stakeholders such as the Nunukan district CSR forum also always make efforts to provide assistance to the community through assistance with drilling wells and assistance related to the use of plastic bottles to be used as environmentally friendly floats. Then Normative Commitment shows that the government is working together with stakeholders in developing environmentally friendly buoy innovations to reduce the rate of use of used plastic bottles.

Kajian Perilaku RamahLingkungan Generasi Muda terkait Penggunaan Tumbler Ramah Lingkungan

Green environmental issues and Green awareness have become of interest throughout the world. By tending to use Green products, it has had a positive impact on the environment. In everyday use of Green tumblers as an effort to reduce the use of single-use bottles, can be said to have Green behavior. This research aims to find out how Green a person's behavior is seen from the use of a Green tumbler and whether there are differences between levels of Green and demographic factors including age, gender, highest level of education, and monthly income. This research was conducted on people in Semarang City who often use Green tumblers in their daily lives. The sample in this study was taken using the snowball sampling method and obtained 60 respondents. Snowball sampling was carried out by distributing questionnaires to Green tumbler users and through references from friends, relatives, and family. Data were analyzed using descriptive techniques to describe Green behavior based on respondents' perceptions. Then a Chi-Square test was carried out using IBM SPSS statistics 25. The results showed that most respondents belonged to the Greenest class, indicating a high level of Green behavior, with gender as the only demographic factor that showed a significant difference in the use of Green tumblers.

PEMBINAAN PEMBUATAN SABUN CAIR CUCI PIRING DARI MINYAK JELANTAH DI KELURAHAN MULYOREJO

Mulyorejo Village is an area in the Malang which is has many home industries particularly based on food and drink which is directly proportional with the waste namely waste cooking oil. Recently, the society discharged it directly to the environment. Therefore, it is important for the people of Mulyorejo Village to obtained skills in order to processing that waste. The community service that has been done is how to make liquid dishes soap from waste cooking oil. The active ingredient is potassium hydroxide. In addition, the training was conducted through the use of reuse bottles as a substitute for plastic packaging which can later be filled through refill station. The community service was held on October 6th, 2023 with 15 participants. Based on the results of the questionnaire, it can be seen that the mean value reaches 3.84 and the mode value of each question is 4.0. Thus, it can be informed that the training participants understand, feel the benefit and satisfied with the guidance of liquid dishes soap fabrication. The training participants also received materials and tools for refilling liquid dishes soap from the community service team which could be used to produce liquid dishes soap independently.

THE AESTHETICS OF SUSTAINABILITY: INCORPORATING PLASTIC RECYCLING INTO ART AND DESIGN EDUCATION

This study investigates the integration of environmental conservation principles in university craft and artistry design courses, focusing on the use of recycled plastic bottles. It examines how this innovative approach effectively incorporates environmental concepts into art education, enhancing student creativity and environmental awareness. Through observational methods, the study explores student behaviours in material selection, design processes, and the application of recycled materials, revealing a preference for using beverage plastic bottles for their accessibility and malleability. The study also highlights the role of art in promoting environmental consciousness. It suggests that such practices not only enhance technical and creative skills but also foster environmental responsibility among future designers. This research underscores the necessity of multidisciplinary approaches in art and design education, advocating for experiential learning methods and the use of digital platforms for resource sharing and creative expression. The study contributes to the discourse on sustainable design education, emphasizing the importance of nurturing environmentally responsible designers to address global environmental challenges.

The Contribution of Advertising to Sales Volume: A Case Study of MTN Uganda, Kasese Branch

This research investigates the impact of advertising on the sales volume of MTN Uganda Ltd, with a specific emphasis on the Kasese Municipality branch. The objective of the study was to comprehend the effects of advertising on customer buying behavior and its consequent effect on sales. A total of 50 respondents were surveyed, consisting of 30 men (60%) and 20 females (40%). The age distribution spanned from 18 to over 48 years, with the majority (40%) falling between the 18-27 age group. According to the report, Coca-Cola was the product that people drank the most, accounting for 36% of consumption. Fanta came in second place with 16% consumption, followed by Stoney with 12%. Advertising had a substantial effect on consumer purchasing choices, as 62% of participants acknowledged its impact. A comprehensive consensus, with a 100% agreement, was established on the robust correlation between advertising and sales volume. The primary characteristics discovered in the effect of advertising are high visibility (52%), quality impression (20%), attention-drawing strength (16%), and perceived size (12%). Furthermore, the research emphasized that cost, size, and design are crucial factors to be taken into account when developing advertising campaigns. Additional elements that influenced the sales volume were flavor, which accounted for 20% of the effect, advertising, which accounted for 24% of the impact, and availability, which accounted for 10% of the impact. The study revealed two main limitations: the high cost of advertising, accounting for 40% of the identified issues, and the use of recycled bottles, which constituted 20% of the limitations. To address these challenges, two potential solutions were proposed: the use of promotional tools, which accounted for 30% of the offered remedies, and the avoidance of recycled bottles, which also constituted 30% of the proposed solutions. The report asserts that advertising has a crucial function in augmenting the sales volume for MTN Uganda Ltd. The results emphasize the significance of efficient advertising tactics in influencing customer buying behavior and enhancing sales. Keywords: Advertising; Sales Volume; Consumer Behavior; MTN Uganda; Kasese Municipality

Herbal Plant Education and Hydroponic Training of Vertical and Wick System in Limited Space

The program "Empowering the Community of Simo Angin-Angin Village, Sidoarjo through the Use of Natural Materials to Achieve Health Independence" was implemented at the Simo Angin-Angin Village Hall, Krian District, Sidoarjo Regency in May-June 2023. This Community Empowerment Program (Community Service) carries a preventive and consists of a series of activities, including counseling about the use of natural materials based on the recommendations of the Koran, considering that the majority of Simo Angin-Angin village residents are Muslim. This activity also includes training in farming using the hydroponic method. The aim of this program is to strengthen health independence in Simo Angin-Angin Village in order to improve collective welfare. The Community Service program in Simo Angin-Angin Village was attended by 22 participants, consisting of health cadres and the general public. The implementation is divided into 2 stages, namely counseling regarding the Black Cumin herbal plant and training regarding vertical hydroponic procedures, as well as the use of plastic bottles with the Wick system. The evaluation results showed that participants' understanding was very good, with 95% of them achieving a score of 100, while 5% obtained a score of 80. The evaluation results of participant satisfaction with the implementation of the extension showed very good scores for the topic material and delivery of the material by resource persons on herbal plant education and hydroponic training. This Community Service activity provides skills for the community to grow crops on narrow land using a hydroponic system

Smart Water ATM with Arduino Integration, RFID Authentication, and Dynamic Dispensing for Enhanced Hydration Practices

This proposal outlines the development of a comprehensive solution to address hydration challenges through the creation of a Smart Water ATM with Arduino integration, RFID authentication, and dynamic dispensing capabilities. Traditional water dispensers often fall short in monitoring water intake and promoting optimal hydration practices. In response, our project aims to revolutionize hydration practices by integrating Arduino Mega and Uno boards into a Smart Water ATM with a Bottle Dispenser. This innovative system is designed to dispense specific water quantities based on user preferences, encourage the use of personal water bottles, display water temperature, and operate independently without the need for a water line connection. Prior to prototype fabrication, an extensive literature review and survey were conducted to understand existing water dispenser shortcomings and gather public perspectives in Singapore. The Smart Water ATM addresses identified issues by incorporating sensors to monitor water levels, dispense specific quantities, and measure water temperatures. The prototype fabrication involves designing a stainless-steel housing, 3D printing the Smart Water dispenser unit, and installing tanks, tubing, and electronic components. To enhance user interaction, the Smart Water ATM requires RFID authentication through Identity Cards, tracking daily water consumption. An LCD screen displays the dispensed water volume over the ATM’s lifespan, motivating users to be mindful of their water consumption and minimize wastage. Adjustments will be made for deployment in public spaces, such as train stations, where access to permanent water dispensers is limited. This proposal presents an innovative solution to promote enhanced hydration practices, encouraging users to adopt mindful water consumption habits.

In-situ synthesis of carbon-coated Mo2C: An exceptionally efficient and robust electrocatalyst for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER)

In the present work, the Mo2C electrocatalyst has been synthesized using waste plastic as carbon source. The use of plastic bottle has been chosen to reduce the cost of electrocatalyst as well to address the environmental issues caused due to these wastes. The pure phase sample was synthesized at 800 °C by carburizing MoO3 in an autoclave. The synthesized sample shows high activity towards HER with a lower Tafel slope of 85.7 mVdec−1. One of the exceptional features of the developed electrocatalyst is the long-term stability up to 7 days as determined by chronopotentiometry results. The improved activity and stability have been attributed to the presence of graphene like structures encapsulating the Mo2C particles. The presence of carbon also shows higher storage ability with an electrochemical double layer capacitance (EDLC, Cdl) of 91.0 μF. The synthesized sample shows an efficient and stable electrocatalyst towards HER.

The cost of keeping warm: a relationship between a rise in the cost of domestic energy and burn injuries caused by personal heating equipment

IntroductionDuring 2022–2023, the UK found itself in the midst of a domestic energy crisis, with the average domestic gas and electricity bill rising by 75% between 2019 and 2022. As a result, the use of hot water bottles, radiant heaters, and electric blankets increased. An unintended consequence of this may be an increase in burn injuries caused by misfortune, misuse, or the use of items in a state of disrepair. PurposeThe aim of this study was to explore any increase in referrals to a single burns centre in England for injuries caused by hot water bottles, radiant heaters, or electric blankets. MethodsThis was a retrospective study of a prospectively maintained database of referrals. All referrals between January 2022 and January 2023 were selected and compared with the same period from 2020–2021 (before the rise in energy prices). Referrals were screened for the terms “hot water bottle,” “electric heater,” “electric blanket,” and “heater.” Total referrals in each period, demographic data (age, gender), anatomical location and the mechanism of injury were compared between cohorts. ResultsWe found a statistically significant increase in the number of burns relating to heating implements between 2020/21 and 2022/23, rising from 54 to 81 (p = 0.03) – a 50% increase in injuries. Injuries in working age adults increased significantly (52% to 69%, p < 0.05). The most frequently injured area was the leg (30%) followed by the hand (18%). The commonest type of injury described was scald (72%). We found a moderately-strong correlation between the number of referrals and the average cost of energy in 2022–23. ConclusionThe number of injuries sustained by people using personal heating equipment is significantly increasing, which correlated with the rise in domestic energy prices. The most affected demographic appears to be working age adults, with wider implications around lost work-time yet to be explored. Further prospective, population-based work is indicated to assess the strength of the correlation seen in this study.

Environmental performance of different water bottles with different compositions: A cradle to gate approach

Plastic production has increased over the years and the packaging industry was responsible for 44% of the total plastic production. Polyethylene terephthalate (PET), due to its favorable properties, is one of the most used polymers in this sector.This study first aimed to compare the environmental performance related to the production of a novel recycled PET (rPET) form, namely, rPET flake, and then compare it with the production of virgin PET (vPET) and rPET pellet. Secondly, this study aimed to compare the environmental impacts of four water bottles with different compositions, namely, option A composed with only vPET, option B made with 50% vPET and 50% rPET pellet, option C made with 75% rPET pellet and 25% rPET flake, and option D made with 50% vPET, 25% rPET pellet and 25% rPET flake. Option A was designed as a single-use water bottle, while the remaining options (Options B, C and D) were thought to be reusable bottles, and for that reason were heavier and more robust compared to Option A. The environmental impact assessment followed the International Standard Rules of Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), and the impact assessment method used was the Environmental Product Declaration. Ecoibéria and Logoplaste provided the majority of the required data, and three functional units were considered. The first one was the production of 1 kg of PET, the second was the production of different water bottles, and finally, the third one was the consumption of 2 l of water with different water bottles. As a result, it was first observed that the production of rPET flake in comparison to vPET reduces, on average, 79% of the impacts, and rPET pellet reduces 10% of the impacts. Secondly, in the production of the different water bottles, Option A, the single-use bottle, presented the lowest environmental impacts in almost all categories. Finally, when taking into account the reusable factor, the use of single-use bottles presented the higher environmental impact in all categories, probably because of the dilution of the environmental impacts associated with the production of heavier and robust reusable bottles by the multiple times of uses of these bottles.

Plastic as a Soil Stabilizer

Soil stabilization is any process which improves the physical properties of soil, such as increasing shear strength, bearing capacity etc. which can be done by use of controlled compaction or addition of suitable admixtures like cement, lime and waste materials like fly ash, phosphogypsum etc. The cost of introducing these additives has also increased in recent years which opened the door widely for the development of other kinds of soil additives such as plastics, bamboo etc. This new technique of soil stabilization can be effectively used to meet the challenges of society, to reduce the quantities of waste, producing useful material from non-useful waste materials. Use of plastic products such as polythene bags, bottles etc. is increasing day by day leading to various environmental concerns.Therefore the disposal of the plastic wastes without causing any ecological hazards has become a real challenge. Thus using plastic bottles as a soil stabilizer is an economical utilization since there is scarcity of good quality soil for embankments. This project involves the detailed study on the possible use of waste plastic bottles for soil stabilization. The analysis was done by conducting plate load tests on soil reinforced with layers of plastic bottles filled with sand and bottles cut to halves placed at middle and one-third positions of tank.The comparison of test results showed that cut bottles placed at middle position were the most efficient in increasing strength of soil. The optimum percentage of plastic strips in soil was found out by California Bearing Ratio Test and using this percentage of plastic, plate load test was also performed. The size and content of strips of waste plastic bottles have significant effect on the enhancement of strength of the soil].

PERFORMANCE EVALUATION OF A PLASTIC BOTTLE-BASED SUBSURFACE IRRIGATION SYSTEM

Several attempts have been made by researchers for an efficient and cost-effective means of applying irrigation water, since traditional Surface irrigation system is becoming unsustainable due to water shortage. Adoption of most of these systems have failed because sophistication in design and complexity in setup. The use of recycled plastic bottles (PB) is another attempt at achieving a less complex system, yet promoting reuse of spent PB. Experimental Plot was set up in Samaru-Zaria, for a Subsurface irrigation system using recycled PB perforated at the base and connected to network of pipes. Evaluation of the system was carried out to determine the orifice size, orifice depth and the type of fertilizer application with the best agronomic yield parameters in RCBD design with sixteen (16) treatments replicated three (3) times. The results show the treatment with 3mm orifice size buried to 10mm depth with inorganic fertilizer performs best. The use of PB is therefore recommended for use in subsurface system to promote low-cost, less complex yet very effective water saving irrigation system.