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Purpose: Anaerobic-anoxic-aerobic process is one of the biological removal processes of nutrients in wastewater treatment. Phosphorus removal by biological method is a new and developed technique that is done by changing the design of suspended growth systems. Methods: This is a cross-sectional descriptive study, which is a pilot workshop based in the first module, and chemistry, physics and microbiological tests were carried out at the wastewater treatment plant laboratory in one of the cities (Pardis) of Tehran province in 2020–2021 during a period of 12 months. Was completed. In this research, a total of 500 samples were taken from raw wastewater, aeration pond, effluent, secondary sedimentation and return activated sludge. Results: In this research, the internal decay coefficient and the growth efficiency coefficient are equal to d−1 0.1264 and 0.6579 gVSS/gCOD, respectively. And the maximum specific rate of consumption of food substance and the semi-saturation constant of food substance respectively were gCOD/gVSS.d 3.3467 gCOD/m 25.305. If the specific rate of consumption of food substance or efficiency factor in our research is 0.27 gCOD/gVSS.d and the semi-constant Ks saturation equal to 27.9 gCOD/m has been obtained, this actually shows that the organic matter (COD) in the waste water of Pardis city had a higher degradability (sbCOD). Conclusion: According to the obtained results, the synthetic coefficients in the Lineweaver–Burk and Hanes models are suitable, but in the Hofstee model, the amount of K and Kd is less than the optimal amount for the proper exploitation of the pilot. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the current investigation, MnFe 2 O 4 /ZIF-8 nanocomposite was generated as a magnetic nanoadsorber using the extract of Dracocephalum plant and characterized by XRD, FTIR, VSM, BET, FESEM, EDS-mapping, TEM, XPS, TPD-NH 3 , and TGA analyses. Also, to determine its efficiency in the adsorption process of tetracycline, the effect of pH (3–9), nanocomposite dose (0.025–2 g/L), initial pollutant concentration (5–100 mg/L), contact time (5–200 min), and temperature (5–50 °C) were studied. The results of the morphological properties of the magnetic nanocomposite confirmed the spherical shape of this nanoadsorber with an average size of 54 ± 31 nm. BET analysis showed that modification of MnFe 2 O 4 material with ZIF-8 as a new nanoadsorber leads to excellent modification of S BET (143.8 m2/g) and V Total (0.44 cm3/g). The highest removal efficiency of tetracycline in optimal conditions (pH = 7, contact time = 120 min, nanocomposite dose = 1.5 g/L, and temperature = 20 °C for a tetracycline concentration of 20 mg/L) was 90.11%. As the temperature increased, the removal efficiency increased from 40.46% to 95.06% during 120 min, which indicates that the adsorption reaction is endothermic. In addition, the data obtained from the isotherms of Langmuir (R2 = 0.958), Freundlich (R2 = 0.534), and Temkin (R2 = 0.747) showed that the tetracycline adsorption is monolayer and on the homogeneous surface of the synthesized magnetic nanoadsorber. The elimination process of tetracycline by nanoadsorber followed the pseudo-second order model (R2 = 0.998). Investigating the effect of interfering ions also confirmed the decrease in the adsorption efficiency. Also, the investigation of the reusability of the synthesized magnetic nanoadsorber in tetracycline adsorption indicates that after eight cycles, the efficiency decreases by %16.51. According to the results, the magnetic nanocomposite synthesized in this work can be a suitable and economical adsorber for the removal of tetracycline from aqueous environments. [Display omitted] • Adsorption of TC on the MnFe 2 O 4 /ZIF-8 nanocomposite in neutral environment. • 16% decrease in efficiency of MnFe 2 O 4 /ZIF-8 adsorbent during 8 cycles. • Very high resistance of MnFe 2 O 4 /ZIF-8 adsorbent against high temperatures. • High efficiency of adsorbent in removal of TC in the presence of interfering ions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present work, the biomass of Aspergillus flavus (AF) was modified using magnetic nanoparticles MnFe 2 O 4 and metal-organic framework of ZIF-67, and its ability to remove tetracycline antibiotic (TCH) was investigated. With the help of physicochemical tests, AF biomass modification with ZIF-67 and MnFe 2 O 4 magnetic nanoparticles was confirmed. Based on the BET value, AF-MnFe 2 O 4 -ZIF-67 (139.83 m2/g) has a higher surface value than AF (0.786 m2/g) and AF/MnFe 2 O 4 (17.504 m2/g). Also, the magnetic saturation value revealed that the modified biomass can be isolated from the treated solution using a simple magnetic field. Maximum TCH elimination (99.04%) using AF-MnFe 2 O 4 -ZIF-67 was obtained at pH 7, adsorber mass of 1 g/L, adsorption time of 40 min, and TCH content of 10 mg/L. The thermodynamic study indicated that the TCH abatement using the desired composite is spontaneous and exothermic. The experimental results showed that the adsorption process is compatible with the pseudo-second-order kinetic and Freundlich model. The maximum adsorption capacity for AF, AF-MnFe 2 O 4 , and AF-MnFe 2 O 4 -ZIF-67 was quantified to be 9.75 mg/g, 25.59 mg/g, and 43.87 mg/g, respectively. The reusability of the desired adsorbers was examined in up to 8 steps. The outcomes showed that the adsorbers can be used several times in TCH elimination. The provided composite can remove TCH from hospital wastewater, so it can be suggested for use in water and wastewater treatment works. • The A. flavus biomass was modified with MnFe 2 O 4 and ZIF-67 to remove tetracycline. • The magnetic sorbent was stable as it was reutilized 8 times with efficiency >86%. • The adsorbent had good efficiency in the presence of cations (Na+, K+, and Ca2+). • Tetracycline adsorption obeyed pseudo-first order and Freundlich models (R2 > 0.9). • > 99% of tetracycline was removed at pH 7, sorbent mass of 1 g/L, and time 40 min. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Working in hot and humid environments can jeopardize the health and safety of the workers and reduce their efficiency. Different physical, environmental, and human factors can influence the risk level of working in these atmospheres. Therefore, the risk assessment of such atmospheres must be carried out from a holistic point of view. This paper aims to introduce a novel risk assessment and prioritization model, using hybrid AHP and VIKOR methods in a fuzzy environment. The AHP method was adopted to determine the importance (weight) of the risk influencing parameters. Also, the VIKOR as a compromise solution method was applied to rank the different working stations against the risk criteria. Fuzzy set theory was used to handle the inherent ambiguity and vagueness of the data encountered in the evaluation process. Furthermore, the fuzzy TOPSIS was adopted to further represent the efficacy of the proposed model. To demonstrate the applicability of the model, a small size foundry shop was selected as the real case and a sensitivity analysis was performed to confirm the validity of the model. The results revealed that the "Environment" has the most contribution to the risk level of hot environments (WE = 0.615). That is followed by "Temperature" (WDBT = 0.268), "Air velocity" (WAV = 0.170), "Safety training" (WST = 0.161), "Mean radiant intensity" (WMRT = 0.110), "Humidity" (WH = 0.066), "Seniority structure" (WSS = 0.063), "Work intensity" (WWI = 0.058), "PPE" (WPPE = 0.047), "Work nature" (WPPE = 0.034), and " Work duration" (WT = 0.022), in sub-factors. Using the F-VIKOR method, the "melting furnace" workstation was determined as the compromise solution with the index value of Q = 1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phthalic acid esters (PAEs) are byproducts released from various sources, including microplastics, cosmetics, personal care products, pharmaceuticals, waxes, inks, detergents, and insecticides. This review article provides an overview of the literature on PAEs in landfill leachates, exploring their identification, occurrence, characteristics, fate, and transport in landfills across different countries. The study emphasizes the influence of these substances on the environment, especially on water and soil. Various analytical techniques, such as GC-MS, GC-FID, and HPLC, are commonly employed to quantify concentrations of PAEs. Studies show significant variations in levels of PAEs among different countries, with the highest concentration observed in landfill leachates in Brazil, followed by Iran. Among the different types of PAE, the survey highlights DEHP as the most concentrated PAE in the leachate, with a concentration of 89.6 μg/L. The review also discusses the levels of other types of PAEs. The data shows that DBP has the highest concentration at 6.8 mg/kg, while DOP has the lowest concentration (0.04 mg/kg). The concentration of PAEs typically decreases as the depth in the soil profile increases. In older landfills, concentrations of PAE decrease significantly, possibly due to long-term degradation and conversion of PAE into other chemical compounds. Future research should prioritize evaluating the effectiveness of landfill liners and waste management practices in preventing the release of PAE and other pollutants into the environment. It is also possible to focus on developing efficient physical, biological, and chemical methods for removing PAEs from landfill leachates. Additionally, the effectiveness of existing treatment processes in removing PAEs from landfill leachates and the necessity for new treatment processes can be considered. [Display omitted] • Landfill leachates, which are a significant source of emerging pollutants, specifically phthalic acid esters, were reviewed. • The concentrations of phthalates in leachates were mapped across different countries using GIS software. • The study examined the influence of landfill age on the levels of phthalic acid esters in water. • Insights into the types and concentrations of phthalic acid esters found in both leachate and soil were provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A saline landfill leachate was treated by ultraviolet/ultrasonic/proxymonosulfate. • Maximum treatment was attained at pH 3, 4 mM proxymonosulfate, and 150 min time. • The COD value was reduced from 2450 mg/L to 983 mg/L. • The quantity of all elements (except Pb, As, and Ca) increased after treatment. • Organic compounds were identified before and after leachate treatment by GC-Mass. Landfill leachate, as a complex medium with a high concentration of organic and mineral materials, is a serious problem for the environment. In the current study, the saline landfill leachate of Bushehr coastal city (Iran) was treated using ultraviolet/ultrasonic waves/peroxymonosulfate system. The initial TOC and TDS of the studied leachate was 915 mg/L and 7390 mg/L, respectively. The system had the maximum efficiency at conditions of pH 3, peroxymonosulfate (PMS) of 4 mM, and reaction time of 150 min. Based on the findings, the initial ratio of BOD 5 /COD (0.66) was reduced to 0.38 using the developed system. After treatment of the landfill leachate at the optimal condition, the values of COD, BOD 5 , and UV 254 were reached to 983 mg/L, 348 mg/L, and 10.16 cm−1, respectively. The concentration of all studied elements (except Pb, As, and Ca) increased after purification. According to the GC-mass spectrometry, the molecular weight and concentration of organic matter in raw leachate were higher than that of the treated one. The studied system had an energy consumption value of 86 kW·h/m3 for the treatment of landfill leachate. The results confirm the effectiveness of the ultraviolet/ultrasonic waves/PMS system for the treatment of high saline landfill leachate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Leaf and bark of trees are tools for assessing the effects of the heavy metals pollution and monitoring the environmental air quality. The aim of this study was to evaluate the presence of Ni, Pb, V, and Co metals in four tree/shrub species ( Conocarpus erectus , Nerium oleander , Bougainvillea spectabilis willd, and Hibiscus rosa-sinensis ) in the heavily industrial zone of Asaloyeh, Iran. Two industrial zones (sites 1 and 2), two urban areas (sites 3 and 4), and two rural areas (sites 5 and 6) in the Asaloyeh industrial zone and an uncontaminated area as a control were selected. Sampling from leaf and bark of trees was carried out in spring 2016. The metals content in the washed and unwashed leaf and bark was investigated. The results showed that four studied metals in N. oleander , C. erectus, and B. spectabilis willd in all case sites were significantly higher than that of in the control site (p < 0.05). The highest concentration of metals was found in sites 3, 4, and 6; this was due to dispersion of the pollutants from industrial environments by dominant winds. The highest comprehensive bio-concentration index (CBCI) was found in leaf (0.37) and bark (0.12) of N. oleander . The maximum metal accumulation index (MAI) in the samples was found in leaf of N. oleander (1.58) and in bark of H. rosa-sinensis (1.95). The maximum bio-concentration factor (BCF) was seen for cobalt metal in the N. oleander leaf (0.89). The nickel concentration in washed-leaf samples of C. erectus was measured to be 49.64% of unwashed one. In general, the N. oleander and C. erectus species were found to have the highest absorption rate from the atmosphere and soil than other studied species, and are very suitable tools for managing air pollution in highly industrialized areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Discharging of non-treated oily sludge from oil refineries has undesirable impacts on the environment. In this research, the biotreatment of total petroleum hydrocarbons (TPHs) from Abadan Petroleum Refinery, Iran was done using co-composting method. A 5 kg mixture of oily sludge and compost (oily sludge: compost ratios 1:0, 1:0.1, 1:0.3, 1:0.5, and 1:0.7 w/w) and a bulking agent of wheat straw were used as treatments. All treatments were placed in a wooden box inside a laboratory and aerated every 2-3 days by mixing during two months of the experiments. The variation of TPHs concentration, bacterial density, C/N ratio, pH, and temperature were assessed during the 63 days- experiments. Results showed that the majority of TPHs of samples was removed at first 30 days. The maximum TPHs removal (65%) was obtained in the sludge: compost = 1:0.5 at the operation time of 63 day. The significant different between removal efficiency of oily sludge: compost ratios and the control sample (p value < 0.05) indicated the appropriate density of TPHs degrader-bacteria in treated samples. The highest variation in C/N ratio was observed 15± 0.58 in the oily sludge: compost = 1:0.1. At the beginning of experiments, the pH values of all treatments was alkaline, but became neutral at the end of the reaction time. The TPHs degradation kinetic for all oily sludge: compost ratios followed pseudo second-order model. In general, co-composting has high efficiency in oily sludge remediation and can be potentially applied as a simple and cost-effective approach for remediation of oily sludge. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study compared the sun- and oven-dried powdered Malva sylvestris for removing Cu(II) from aqueous solution. The fresh and Cu-loaded adsorbents characteristics were analyzed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, Brunauer-Emmett-Teller testing and scanning electron microscopy. The studied parameters that affect adsorption capacity were pH (2-7), initial copper concentration (50-150 mg/L), contact time (3-60 min), adsorbent dosage (1-20 g/L) and temperature (10-35 °C). The results showed that the maximum removal of Cu(II) was observed at pH 5 for both adsorbents. The amount of Cu(II) adsorbed onto both adsorbents increased as the contact time and the initial concentration of Cu(II) increased. The adsorbents exhibited the highest Cu(II) removal at a temperature of 35 °C. The adsorption data obtained at different temperatures was described well by the Langmuir isotherm (qm = 172.61-202.81 mg/g for oven-dried and 118.49-133.45 mg/g for sun-dried) and the pseudo second-order kinetic model (R2 = 0.999 and 0.993-0.997 for oven- and sun-dried, respectively). An electroplating wastewater sample was effectively treated using oven-dried powdered M. sylvestris. The adsorption efficiency of the oven- and sun-dried M. sylvestris after five reuses was 70.4% and 26.1%, respectively. Generally, the oven-dried adsorbent was shown to be more effective than the sun-dried for removal of Cu(II) from wastewater. The cost assessment indicated that the oven-dried M. sylvestris is a more economical adsorbent than sun-dried one. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Compared sun- and oven-dried M. sylvestris for removing Cu from aqueous solution. • Obtained q m = 172–202 mg/g for oven-dried and 118–133 mg/g for sun-dried. • Treated an electroplating wastewater sample using oven-dried M. sylvestris.. • Attained the adsorption efficiency of the adsorbents after five consecutive reuses. • Assessed the cost of Cu(II) removal by the sun- and oven-dried M. sylvestris. This study compared the sun- and oven-dried powdered Malva sylvestris for removing Cu(II) from aqueous solution. The fresh and Cu-loaded adsorbents characteristics were analyzed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, Brunauer–Emmett–Teller testing and scanning electron microscopy. The studied parameters that affect adsorption capacity were pH (2–7), initial copper concentration (50–150 mg/L), contact time (3–60 min), adsorbent dosage (1–20 g/L) and temperature (10–35 °C). The results showed that the maximum removal of Cu(II) was observed at pH 5 for both adsorbents. The amount of Cu(II) adsorbed onto both adsorbents increased as the contact time and the initial concentration of Cu(II) increased. The adsorbents exhibited the highest Cu(II) removal at a temperature of 35 °C. The adsorption data obtained at different temperatures was described well by the Langmuir isotherm (q m = 172.61–202.81 mg/g for oven-dried and 118.49–133.45 mg/g for sun-dried) and the pseudo second-order kinetic model (R2 = 0.999 and 0.993–0.997 for oven- and sun-dried, respectively). An electroplating wastewater sample was effectively treated using oven-dried powdered M. sylvestris. The adsorption efficiency of the oven- and sun-dried M. sylvestris after five reuses was 70.4% and 26.1%, respectively. Generally, the oven-dried adsorbent was shown to be more effective than the sun-dried for removal of Cu(II) from wastewater. The cost assessment indicated that the oven-dried M. sylvestris is a more economical adsorbent than sun-dried one. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The landfill leachate is a highly contaminated matrix containing large amounts of organic and inorganic substances that require effective treatment methods.This study was aimed to evaluate the efficiency of electrokinetic-assisted phytoremediation (EAPR) to treat the solid waste leachate in a hydroponic system (with Cyperus alternifoliusplant). According to the results, the removal efficiency of biochemical oxygen demand (BOD5), chemical oxygen demand (COD), total Kjeldahl nitrogen (TKN),total suspended solids (TDS), total dissolved solids (TSS), total organic carbon (TOC), chlorides, and ∑metal were 34.92 mg/L,35.21 mg/L, 42.53 mg/L, 42.68 mg/L, 46.87 mg/L, 46.92 mg/L, 44.12 mg/L, and 23.41 mg/L, respectively in sole phytoremediation process, 38.83 mg/L, 43.71, 43.72 mg/L, 45.42 mg/L, 53.78 mg/L, 47.71 mg/L, 45.74 mg/L, and 24.32 mg/L, respectively in sole electro-kinetic process, and 60.18 mg/L, 63.53 mg/L, 67.42 mg/L, 68.72 mg/L, 75.46 mg/L, 72.26 mg/L, 69.96 mg/L, and 41.39 mg/L, respectively in EAPR process. Based on the results, we can concludethe EAPR process is an efficient option for the elimination of contaminants and hazards from the landfill leachate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the treatment of an azo dye, as a biorecalcitrant model, from industrial wastewater by using Cu/Mg/Al-chitosan in a fluidized catalyst-bed reactor. A number of variables were used to study the impact they had on the oxidation process involving azo dye. The maximum degradation of the azo dye was achieved at 7 g Cu/Mg/Al-chitosan. The chloride and sulfate ions had a synergistic effect on azo dye removal. The oxidation of the azo dye under the selected conditions was of pseudo-first-order. Textile wastewater could effectively be treated using a low concentration of about 7 g of Cu/Mg/Al-chitosan in a short hydraulic retention time of 10 min. The use of Cu/Mg/Al-chitosan demonstrated a promising method to eliminate the azo dye from the wastewater. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Parabens are a group of chemical additive extensively utilized in various health care products and ubiquitously observed in the different environmental matrixes. Nevertheless, the exposure of women working in beauty salons to these pollutants is not well-documented. For this purpose, 50.00 women working in beauty salons were chosen as the exposed group (EG) and 35.00 housewives were chosen as the control group (GC). The concentration of methyl paraben (MeP), ethyl paraben (EtP), butyl paraben (BuP), propyl paraben (PrP), benzyl paraben (BzP), heptyl paraben (HepP), and para-hydroxybenzoic acid (4-HB) metabolite were quantified in the collected urine samples. It was seen that paraben sexist with a high detection frequency (DF) in the urine of women working in beauty salons. The results also revealed that the significant difference between the urinary parabens level in the EG and CG (P value < 0.05). The median concentration of Σparaben and HB-4 metabolite in the before exposure (BE) samples was 124.00 and 219.00 μg/L, while in the after exposure (AE) samples, it was 156.00 and 249.00 μg/L, respectively. Moreover, the parabens levels in the AE samples were considerably higher than in BE samples in women working in beauty salons (P value < 0.05). This research also documented that "personal care products (PCPs) usage" can be known as a leading factor for the urinary paraben level in the studied individuals. The median total estimated daily intakes (TEsDI) for MeP, EtP, and PrP for the studied women were obtained as 8.02, 4.57, and 7.88 μg/L respectively. Also, a significant and positive association was observed between EtP, PrP as well as BuP and 8-OhdG (as a DNA oxidative stress biomarker) (P value < 0.01). Further, a significant and positive association was found between EtP as well as BuP and some biomarkers of kidney damage (like uTIMP-1 and uKim-1). Accordingly, it can be stated that women working in beauty salons are at a high risk in terms of DNA oxidative stress and kidney damage. [Display omitted] • First survey of urinary parabens levels in women working in beauty salons. • High paraben levels were detected in urine of beauticians after the work shift. • The urinary paraben was correlated with "personal care products (PCPs) usage". • Some parabens were associated with oxidative stress/kidney injury biomarkers. • Beauty activities can be considered as a major source of paraben exposures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • A novel Zeolite 4A/WO 3 /CuO composite catalyst was synthesized to degrade the anionic dyes simultaneously by the sonophotocatalytic process. • The composite catalyst system exhibited a specific surface area of 10.76 m2/g. • The findings indicate that the sonophotocatalytic process demonstrates high efficiency and performance. • The reusability of the Zeolite 4A/WO 3 /CuO catalyst showed that it maintained over 90% of its performance even after five cycles of reuse. • The findings suggest that the sonophotocatalytic process has a faster degradation rate and shorter half-life. • The Zeolite 4A/WO 3 /CuO composite can be confidently recommended as an efficient catalyst for dye removal from aqueous solutions using the sonophotocatalytic process. In this study, a novel composite catalyst system, Zeolite 4A/WO 3 /CuO with a Z-scheme design, was synthesized for photocatalysis, sonocatalysis, and sono-photocatalysis methyl orange (MO) and indigo carmine (IC) dyes simultaneously. The properties of the Zeolite 4A/WO 3 /CuO composite were thoroughly investigated using various techniques, and the results confirmed the synthesis of the desired catalyst system. In the sono-photocatalytic process, using the Zeolite 4A/WO 3 /CuO composite, the maximum efficiency for MO (99.12 %) and IC (97.24 %) was achieved at pH of 2 and 3, with a catalyst dosage of 0.15 g/L, a dye concentration of 10 mg/L, a contact time of 25 min, and H 2 O 2 dosage of 30 µL/100 mL. The dye elimination efficiency using the sono-photocatalytic process was reduced in the presence of Cl- and PO 4 3- in the distilled water. The efficiency also declined in the medium of river and well water resources. Moreover, the Zeolite 4A/WO 3 /CuO catalyst maintained over 90 % of its performance even after five reuse cycles. Based on the kinetic study, the sono-photocatalytic process exhibited higher activation for the removal of MO (k: 0.1946 min−1 and t 1/2 : 3.561) and IC (k: 0.1433 min−1 and t 1/2 : 4.836) than other processes. The synergy values for the MO and IC degradation using the Zeolite 4A/WO 3 /CuO composite were determined to be 2.167 and 2.303, respectively. The impact of various scavengers demonstrated that in the degradation processes of the target dyes using the sono-photocatalytic process, different active species like OH•, e-, h+, and O 2 –• are involved. The purification of dye-laden water using the sono-photocatalytic process was not toxic for plant germination, microorganisms, and fish, highlighting the successful biocompatibility of the process for dye removal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Thin film composite forward osmosis (FO) membranes with permeate spacer fabric were synthesized. • The water-soluble polymer (PVP) employed as paste on the back of the fabric. • Polymer penetration and thickness were controlled thanks to applied PVP. • PVP washed up during phase inversion in water bath. A repeatable method was introduced for developing liable flat sheet thin-film forward osmosis (FO) membranes on spacer backing fabric support. Pasting of a water-soluble polymer (Polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP)) on the backside of the fabric was investigated to prevent the penetration of the polymer dope (Polyethersulfone (PES)) into the backing fabric during phase inversion. All samples were prepared on spacer fabric with a 250 μm in thickness. First, PVP as a water-soluble polymer was cast in 100 μm thickness on a glass plate and then the spacer fabric was pulled from the top on the pasted PVP to fill the bottom side of the fabric. The lower bottom side of the fabric was filled with PVP. This helped to limit PES polymer penetration and to achieve a thinner polymeric support layer during phase inversion. After interfacial polymerization and forming rejection, thin-film composite (TFC) FO membranes were obtained. Water flux of 17.1 Lm−2h−1 and reverse solute flux (RSF) of 9.2 g m−2h−1 were achieved when 1 M NaCl as draw solution and deionized water as feed solution (FS) were used under pressure retarded osmosis (PRO) operating mode for TFC 2 sample. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Treatment of saline oily wastewater via FO process with aquaporin membrane. • Fertilizers as a draw solution after dilution can be applied for farm fertigation. • Feeding the oily wastewater under the PRO mode can lead to significant flux decline. • Flux decline is due to oil droplet and fouling propensity of membrane backing fabric. The hypothesis that petrochemical oily wastewater containing high amounts of total dissolved solids (TDS), chemical oxygen demand (COD) and total organic carbon (TOC) can be effectively treated by a new biomimetic forward osmosis (FO) membrane for fertigation purposes was assessed. The biomimetic FO membrane was characterized, and its intrinsic properties were evaluated. The fertilizer-driven FO (FDFO) process was evaluated in terms of water flux (WF), reverse solute flux (RSF), specific RSF (SRSF), and oil rejection at various draw solution (DS) concentrations and cross-flow velocities. Under optimized conditions, deionized water was used as feed and 3 M KCl, the most widely used potassium fertilizer, was used as DS at a cross-flow velocity of 0.1 m·s−1. WF and RSF of 67.22 Lm-2 h−1 and 48.3 gm−2 h−1, respectively, were obtained. Using saline oily wastewater as the feed, the orientation of the feed facing the membrane support layer exhibited a lower WF due to oily layer fouling within the membrane support. Apart from almost complete rejections of organic chemicals, the biomimetic FO membrane demonstrated a better performance (WF = 11.31 Lm−2 h−1) than the typical polyamide thin film composite (TFC) membrane (WF = 5.23 Lm−2 h−1) during mid-term fouling tests. This study demonstrates that FO process is an effective strategy for sustainable management of hazardous petrochemical oily wastewater by recycling the diluted fertilizer solution for direct fertigation without further treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Zeolite 4A modified with ZnO and Fe 2 (MoO 4) 3 to generate a novel catalyst. • More than 98% of anionic dyes were removed by sonophotocatalytic process. • The OH and h+ species play an essential role in the degradation process. • The kinetic data were fitted to pseudo-first-order model for degrading dyes. • No toxicity was detected from aqueous solutions obtained after the process. In this paper, a new sono-photocatalyst of Zeolite 4A/Zinc oxide/ Iron molybdate (Zeolite 4A/ZnO/Fe 2 (MoO 4) 3) nanoparticle was fabricated and used to decompose methyl orange (MO) and brilliant blue simultaneously (BB) dyes in the presence of ultrasonic waves and ultraviolet (UVC). The feature of the catalyst and its components was fully characterized. The results showed that the efficiency of the sono-photocatalytic process in the dye oxidation was higher than the photocatalytic and sonocatalytic processes. The synergistic effect of the sono-photocatic and photo-catalytic process for the MO and BB oxidation using Zeolite 4A/ZnO/Fe 2 (MoO 4) 3 was obtained 1.796 and 1.944, respectively. The active species of OH and h+ had a prominent role in the dye oxidation. Also, the Zeolite 4A/ZnO/Fe 2 (MoO 4) 3 catalyst was stable and reused seven times in the MO and BB decomposition. The ability of Zeolite 4A/ZnO/Fe 2 (MoO 4) 3 catalyst to treat actual wastewater samples was successfully explored. The by-products of purified wastewater were not toxic for the growth and germination of Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) , Escherichia coli (E. coli), and Lens esculinaris. The studied photocatalyst removed dyes effectively in a reactor with ultrasonic waves and UVC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, a new and facile approach for molybdate loading in the brown algae of Sargassum angustifolium is introduced. The molybdate ions were entered into the algae body during a short cultivation to produce algae-Mo as a novel adsorbent for eliminating phosphate ions from synthetic and real wastewaters. Results of the surface analysis showed that molybdate loading onto the algae was successfully performed. Herein, basic variables, such as initial solution pH, adsorbent dosage, contact time, phosphate concentration, and temperature, were investigated in detail to assess the phosphate adsorption performance of algae-Mo. The pseudo-second-order kinetic model fitted our acquired experimental kinetic data most appropriately, in comparison to the use of a pseudo-first-order model. The Langmuir model appeared to fit the adsorption data more desirably than that of Freundlich and Dubnin-Radushkevich models, with a maximum phosphate adsorption capacity of 149.25 mg/g at 25 °C. The finding of the thermodynamic study revealed that the phosphate adsorption onto algae-Mo was spontaneous, feasible, and endothermic in nature. The study on Mo ions leaching strongly suggested that the risk of Mo leakage during phosphate adsorption was negligible at a wide pH range of 3-9. The adsorption efficiency attained was 53.4% at the sixth cycle of reusability. Two real wastewaters with different qualities were successfully treated by the algae-Mo, suggesting that the algae-Mo could be ordered for practical wastewater treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cationic synthetic dyes are one of the hazards in aqueous solutions that can affect the health of humans and living organisms. In the current work, polyacrylamide (PAM)- g -gelatin hydrogel and modified PAM- g -gelatin hydrogel using activated carbon of Luffa cylindrica (ACL) and ACL/Mg–Fe LDH were applied to eliminate crystal violet (CV), a cationic dye, from water media. The hydrogels were synthesized using free radical polymerization approach, and the hydrogels were characterized using FTIR, XRD, TGA-DTG, BET, SEM, and EDX-Map. The surface area of ACL, ACL/Mg–Fe LDH, PAM-g-gelatin, PAM-g-gelatin/ACL, and PAM-g-gelatin/ACL/Mg–Fe LDH were 99.71, 141.99, 0.74, 1.47, and 1.65 m2/g, respectively, which shows that the presence of ACL and ACL/Mg–Fe LDH improved the area of the hydrogels. The maximum abatement of CV using PAM-g-gelatin (92.81%), PAM-g-gelatin/ACL (95.71%), and PAM-g-gelatin/ACL/Mg–Fe LDH (98.25%) was obtained at pH = 9, temperature 25 °C, 10 mg/L CV, 60 min time, and adsorber dose of 2 g/L (for PAM-g-gelatin) and 1.5 g/L (other samples). The value of thermodynamic factors confirmed that the abatement process is exothermic and spontaneous. The kinetics data followed the pseudo-second kinetic (PSO) model. The Langmuir isotherm model had a more remarkable ability to describe the equilibrium data. The maximum adsorption capacity for PAM-g-gelatin, PAM-g-gelatin/ACL, and PAM-g-gelatin/ACL/Mg–Fe LDH was determined 35.45, 39.865, and 44.952 mg/g, respectively. Generally, the studied hydrogels can eliminate dyes from wastewater and be used as effective adsorbers. • A new polyacrylamide- g -gelatin/ACL/Mg–Fe LDH composite hydrogel was produced. • The hydrogel had an area of 1.65 m2/g and used to remove crystal violet (CV). • The maximum CV abatement (98.25%) was obtained at pH 9 and 10 mg/L CV. • The data followed the pseudo-second-order and Langmuir models (R2 > 0.99). • Textile wastewater was effectively cleaned with hydrogel. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we developed new adsorbents derived from orange peel biochar (BCOP) and enhanced them with CoFe 2 O 4 magnetic nanoparticles (BCOP/CoFe 2 O 4) and MIL-53(Al) (BCOP/CoFe 2 O 4 /MIL-53(Al)). These adsorbents were utilized to remove fluoride (FL) ions from aqueous solutions. We analyzed the properties of these adsorbents using a range of techniques, including FTIR, XRD, SEM, EDX-Map, VSM, Raman spectroscopy, and BET. Our findings indicate that the components interact effectively with one another. Specifically, the BCOP/CoFe 2 O 4 /MIL-53(Al) sample exhibited a specific surface area of 196.430 m2/g and a magnetic saturation value of 9.704 emu/g. The maximum FL ion adsorption capacities for BCOP, BCOP/CoFe 2 O 4 , and BCOP/CoFe 2 O 4 /MIL-53(Al) were 7.618, 16.330, and 37.320 mg/g, respectively, indicating that the modifications significantly enhanced the adsorption capacity. The optimum fluoride ion removal rates using BCOP, BCOP/CoFe 2 O 4 , and BCOP/CoFe 2 O 4 /MIL-53(Al) were 97.88%, 98.23%, and 99.06%, respectively, at adsorbent doses of 2.5, 1.5, and 0.8 g/L, contact times of 90, 70, and 50 min, pH 4, temperature 50 °C, and a FL concentration of 10 mg/L. Thermodynamic studies revealed that the adsorption process was spontaneous and endothermic, with increased randomness between the adsorbent and fluoride ions. Kinetic analyses showed that fluoride ion adsorption by BCOP/CoFe 2 O 4 /MIL-53(Al) followed a pseudo-second-order (PSO) model, while BCOP and BCOP/CoFe 2 O 4 followed a pseudo-first-order (PFO) model. Additionally, the equilibrium data for fluoride ion adsorption on BCOP/CoFe 2 O 4 /MIL-53(Al) adhered to the Freundlich model, whereas the other samples conformed to the Langmuir model. The study evaluates the effectiveness of BCOP, BCOP/CoFe 2 O 4 , and BCOP/CoFe 2 O 4 /MIL-53(Al) in removing FL ions from glass manufacturing wastewater, highlighting the superior performance of the magnetic composite due to its enhanced surface area and functional groups. Notably, the adsorbents demonstrated good regenerative capabilities, maintaining high performance over multiple adsorption cycles. • Developed adsorbents from orange peel biochar enhanced with CoFe 2 O 4 and MIL-53(Al). • Adsorbents effectively removed fluoride (FL) ions from aqueous solutions and industrial wastewater. • BCOP/CoFe 2 O 4 /MIL-53(Al) showed an area of 196 m2/g and a magnetic value of 9.7 emu/g. • Maximum FL adsorption capacities: 7.6, 16.3, and 37.3 mg/g for BCOP, BCOP/CoFe 2 O 4 , and BCOP/CoFe 2 O 4 /MIL-53(Al). • Regeneration results showed potential for multiple FL adsorption cycles without performance loss. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of biomass and waste to produce adsorbent reduces the cost of water treatment. The bio-char of Sargassum oligocystum (BCSO) was modified with MnFe 2 O 4 magnetic particles and La-metal organic framework (MOF) to generate an efficient adsorbent (BCSO/MnFe 2 O 4 @La-MOF) for fluoride ions (F−) removal from aqueous solutions. The performance of BCSO/MnFe 2 O 4 @La-MOF was compared with BCSO/MnFe 2 O 4 and BCSO. The characteristics of the adsorbents were investigated using various techniques, which revealed that the magnetic composites were well-synthesized and exhibited superparamagnetic properties. The maximum adsorption efficiencies (BCSO: 97.84%, BCSO/MnFe 2 O 4 : 97.85%, and BCSO/MnFe 2 O 4 @La-MOF: 99.36%) were achieved under specific conditions of pH 4, F− concentration of 10 mg/L, and adsorbent dosage of 3, 1.5, and 1 g/L for BCSO, BCSO/MnFe 2 O 4 , and BCSO/MnFe 2 O 4 @La-MOF, respectively. The results demonstrated that the experimental data adheres to a pseudo-second-order kinetic model. The enthalpy, entropy, and Gibbs free energy were determined to be negative; thus, the F− adsorption was exothermic and spontaneous in the range of 25–50 °C. The equilibrium data of the process exhibited conformity with the Langmuir model. The maximum adsorption capacities of F− ions were determined as 10.267 mg/g for BCSO, 14.903 mg/g for the BCSO/MnFe 2 O 4 , and 31.948 mg/g for BCSO/MnFe 2 O 4 @La-MOF. The K F and A T values for the F− adsorption were obtained at 21.03 mg/g (L/mg)1/n and 100 × 10+9 L/g, indicating the pronounced affinity of the BCSO/MnFe 2 O 4 @La-MOF towards F− than other samples. The significant potential of the BCSO/MnFe 2 O 4 @La-MOF magnetic composite for F− removal from industrial wastewater, makes it suitable for repeated utilization in the adsorption process. [Display omitted] • The algal biochar was amended with MnFe 2 O 4 , Lanthanum, and MOF from PET waste. • The magnetic novel composite was used to remove fluoride from water and wastewater. • More than 99% of fluoride was removed at pH 4, and F− content of 10 mg/L. • F− removal followed pseudo-second-order and the Langmuir models (R2 > 0.99). • The reclaimable composite was effectively removed F− from industrial wastewater. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The sea contains elements that can play a useful role in catalyzing reactions. Therefore, this research was done to focus on eliminating amoxicillin (AMX) from wastewater utilizing zeolite Y- sea salt catalyst in the presence of H 2 O 2. The influences of furnace temperature (200–500 °C) and time duration in the furnace (1–4 h) were optimized during catalyst generation. Also, the effects of different parameters on AMX removal, such as pH (5.0–9.0), catalyst dose (0–10 g.L−1), AMX concentration (50–300 mg.L−1), contact time (10–130 min), and H 2 O 2 concentration (0–6 mL/100 mL distilled water) were investigated. Different analyses like Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) were conducted to reveal catalyst properties. The BET-specific surface area of the catalyst (12.69 m2g−1) insignificantly (p-value > 0.05) changed after AMX removal (13.04 m2g−1), indicating the strength of the prepared catalyst. The active groups of N–H, O–H–O, O–Si–O, C–H, Si–O–Si, and Si–O–Al were determined in the catalyst structure. The highest removal of AMX (93%) was achieved in the zeolite-sea salt/H 2 O 2 system at a pH level of 6.0 and an H 2 O 2 concentration of 0.1 mL/100 mL. Elimination of the AMX followed pseudo-first-order kinetics. The catalyst was reclaimed up to 7 times and the removal efficiency was suitable up to the fifth stage. The by-products and reaction pathways were investigated by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The results showed that zeolite-sea salt can be utilized as an H 2 O 2 activator for the effective degradation of AMX from wastewater. [Display omitted] • Sea salts were improved the catalytic property of zeolite Y. • Zeolite-sea salt had a surface of 12.69 m2g−1 and crystallite size of 410.82 nm. • Zeolite-sea salt/H 2 O 2 was eliminated amoxicillin (93% at pH 6.0). • The zeolite-sea salt was re-utilized seven times. • The degradation pathway of amoxicillin using the system was revealed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, wasted sediment (sludge waste from shipping docks) was coupled with titanium isopropoxide by the thermal and sol-gel method as a new photocatalyst. The sediment-titanate catalyst alongside ultrasonic and UV was activated hydrogen peroxide to produce OH radicals and decompose cephalexin (CEP). The photocatalyst was crystalline with 52.29 m2/g BET area. The best destruction rate of 87.01% based on COD test was achieved at optimal conditions (pH: 8, cephalexin concentration: 100 mg/L, H 2 O 2 : 1.63 mg/L, UV: 15 W/m2, ultrasonication time: 100 min at 40 kHz, photocatalyst quantity: 1.5 g/L). The trend of anions effect was NO 3 − ≤ SO 4 2− ≤ Cl−. Decomposition of cephalexin in water solution followed the first-order kinetics (k > 0.01 min−1, R2 > 0.9). The percentage of cephalexin removal from urban water (76%) and hospital wastewater (63%) has decreased compared to the distilled water solution (87%), which is probably due to the presence of radical inhibitors. The consumed electrical energy of the studied system was calculated by 0.031 kW/h. The developed system is a promising and economical method to remove cephalexin. [Display omitted] • Disposable sediments of shipping docks were decorated with TiO 2 to activate H 2 O 2. • UV and ultrasonic waves synergized the decomposition of cephalexin by the catalyst. • Under optimal conditions, 87% of 100 mg/L cephalexin was removed within 100 min. • The anions affected the cephalexin removal by the order of NO 3 − ≤ SO 4 2− ≤ Cl−. • Hospital wastewater was treated by 63% with the electrical energy of 0.031 kW/h. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Disposal sludges from shipping docks contain elements that have the potential to catalyze the desired treatment process. The current work was designed to decompose phenol from wastewater by activation peroxymonosulfate (PMS) using a catalyst made from sea sediments (at 400 °C for 3 h). The catalyst had a crystalline form and contained metal oxides. The parameters of pH (3–9), catalyst dose (0–80 mg/L), phenol concentration (50–250 mg/L), and PMS dose (0–250 mg/L) were tested to specify the favorable phenol removal. The phenol removal of 99% in the waste sludge catalyst/PMS system was achieved at pH 5, catalyst quantity of 30 mg/L, phenol content of 50 mg/L, PMS dose of 150 mg/L, and reaction time of 150 min. From the results, it was implied that the pH factor was more important in removing phenol with the studied system than other factors. By-products and phenol decomposition pathways were also provided. The results showed that the sea sediment catalyst/PMS system is a vital alternative for removing phenol from wastewater medium. • A sea sediment catalyst was applied to activate persulfate and remove phenol. • The crystallite size of fresh catalyst was calculated to be 103.4 nm. • 99% phenol was removed at pH5, catalyst dose of 30 mg/L, and contact time of 150min. • The effect of anions, cations, and organic matter on phenol removal was studied. • The decomposition path of phenol was investigated by the studied system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new magnetic nanocomposite clinoptilolite (CLT)/Starch/CoFe 2 O 4 was synthesized using co-precipitation method. The prepared magnetic composite powder was utilized for decontamination of methylene blue dye (MBD), methyl violet dye (MVD), and crystal violet dye (CVD) from water media. The BET analysis showed that CLT modification using starch and CoFe 2 O 4 nanoparticles improved its specific surface and the amount of specific surface area for CLT, CoFe 2 O 4, and CLT/Starch/CoFe 2 O 4 powder was reported to be 18.82 m2.g−1, 151.4 m2.g-1, and 104.75 m2.g−1, respectively. Experimental results showed that pH 9 had a vital role in the adsorption process of all three types. Langmuir and Redlich-Petersen isotherm models were well fitted with experimental data. Also, the maximum adsorption capacity of CVD, MBD, and MVD to the desired composite was determined as 32.84 mg.g−1, 31.81 mg.g−1, and 31.15 mg.g−1, respectively. In addition, the kinetic data of the removal process followed a pseudo-first order (PFO) kinetic model. Negative thermodynamic parameters were indicated that the process is spontaneous and exothermic. Finally, ad(de)sorption experiments' results showed that the synthesized nanocomposite adsorbent has an excellent ability to adsorb cationic dyes after several consecutive cycles. • An effective nanocomposite powder of clinoptilolite/starch/CoFe 2 O 4 was generated. • The nanocomposite was tested to decontaminate three cationic dyes. • The nanocomposite powder was crystalline and had a BET value of 104.75 m2/g. • The maximum elimination capacity of the studied dyes was greater than 30 mg/g. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present investigation was designed to remove ibuprofen from aqueous solutions and wastewater by activating hydrogen peroxide using ultrasonication (US)/ultraviolet (UV) radiation/zeolite-titanium. The physical-chemical properties of the photocatalyst were determined using BET, FTIR, XRD, FESEM, and EDX-mapping techniques. The titanium oxide crystal size and the catalyst BET were determined to be 4.97 nm and 39.88 m2/g, respectively. Tests were performed in a reactor (with a volume of 316 mL) located in an ultrasonic bath to intensify reactions. The synergistic impact of the components of the UV/US/H 2 O 2 /Photocatalyst system was explored. The maximum efficiency (99.58%) was obtained at H 2 O 2 concentration of 0.05 mM, pH 5, UV power of 6 W, photo-catalyst dose of 1 g/L, and contact time of 100 min. The pH variable was more effective than the other parameters. Ions of NO 3 −, Cl−, and SO 4 2− had a slightly negative effect on contaminant removal efficiency. The ibuprofen removal (based on COD) from urban water and hospital wastewater was attained 77.82% and 66.24%, respectively. The ibuprofen removal by the developed system followed the first-order kinetic. The results show that the system has high efficiency and reasonable costs (with treatment cost of 6.25 €/m3) for ibuprofen decontamination. • The crystalline zeolite-TiO 2 catalyst with a suitable BET (39.88 m2/g) was produced. • Ibuprofen was removed from water and wastewater using UV/ultrasonic/H 2 O 2 /catalyst. • Ibuprofen was removed 99% at pH 5, 0.05 mM H 2 O 2 , and 1 g/L catalyst. • The electrical energy for the studied process was calculated to be 29.1 kW h/m3. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, Zeolite-MgO was generated using alkali-thermal method and was utilized as a catalyst to decrease amoxicillin (AMX) concentration in the presence of H 2 O 2 from wastewater. Different tests like Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR), Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET), field emission scanning electron microscopy-energy dispersive X-ray analysis (FESEM-EDX), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and X-ray diffraction (XRD) were done to determine catalyst properties. Active groups of C-S–C, C O, C C, C–N, C–O, N–O, and N–H were identified in catalyst frame. According to XRD results, lower crystallinity of nanoparticles after modification of zeolite by MgO can lead to improvement of AMX removal. Active surface of zeolite (2.32 m2/g) was increased after optimization by MgO to 2.96 m2/g, indicating an increase in the catalyst capacity for activation of H 2 O 2. In addition, furnace temperature (200–500 °C), residence time in the furnace (1–4 h), and Mg(NO 3) 2 : zeolite ratio (0.25: 2, 0.5:2, 1:2 w/w) were studied to achieve the optimized catalyst for AMX removal. Different parameters like pH (5–9), H 2 O 2 concentration (0–6 mL/100 mL), dose of catalyst (0–10 g/L), AMX concentration (50–300 mg/L), and reaction time (10–130 min) were also studied. The best efficiency (97.9%) of AMX removal was achieved at acidic pH with the lowest amount of H 2 O 2 (0.1 mL/100 mL) and 7 g/L of catalyst. AMX removal using the developed process followed pseudo-first-order kinetics. Reclaimable Zeolite-MgO catalyst can be effectively utilized in wastewater works. • Factors affecting Zeolite-MgO activity were optimized. • Zeolite-MgO had a BET of 2.96 m2/g and crystallite size of 463.1 nm. • H 2 O 2 was activated by Zeolite-MgO to remove amoxicillin (efficiency: 97% at pH 6). • The stability of Zeolite-MgO catalyst was approved by six cycles of re-utilization. • The mechanism pathway and amoxicillin by-products were determined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thin‐film composite (TFC) forward‐osmosis (FO) membranes were developed on different woven and nonwoven backing fabrics as support. Embedded backing fabrics have a significant effect on the membrane film sublayer by imparting porosity, membrane mechanical strength, and thickness. Woven and nonwoven backing fabric supports have been used for FO membranes cast on the commercial scale. There are also a few studies on the laboratory scale, but repeating them seems to be a challenge. The results herein show that TFC membranes with nonwoven incorporated substrates gain a higher water flux while keeping the specific reverse salt flux low. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of the present study was to employ a green synthesis method to produce a sustainable ZnFe 12 O 19 /BiOI nanocomposite and evaluate its efficacy in the photocatalytic degradation of metronidazole (MNZ) from aqueous media. An artificial neural network (ANN) model was developed to predict the performance of the photocatalytic degradation process using experimental data. More importantly, sensitivity analysis was conducted to explore the relationship between MNZ degradation and various experimental parameters. The elimination of MNZ was assessed under different operational parameters, including pH, contaminant concentration, nanocomposite dosage, and retention time. The outcomes exhibited high a desirability performance of the ANN model with a coefficient correlation (R2) of 0.99. Under optimized circumstances, the MNZ elimination efficiency, as well as the reduction in chemical oxygen demand (COD) and total organic carbon (TOC), reached 92.71%, 70.23%, and 55.08%, respectively. The catalyst showed the ability to be regenerated 8 times with only a slight decrease in its photocatalytic activity. Furthermore, the experimental data obtained demonstrated a good agreement with the predictions of the ANN model. As a result, this study fabricated the ZnFe 12 O 19 /BiOI nanocomposite, which gave potential implication value in the effective decontamination of pharmaceutical compounds. [Display omitted] • Synthesized and characterized ZnFe 12 O 19 /BiOI as a new green magnetic nanocomposite. •The ZnFe 12 O 19 /BiOI/Xenon process was evaluated in actual pharmaceutical wastewater. •OH radicals was the prevailing species for photodecomposition of metronidazole. •The ZnFe 12 O 19 /BiOI was an efficient and highly stable photocatalyst. • Artificial neural network confirmed the laboratory data in this work. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This investigation aimed to scrutinize the level of phthalate esters (PEs) in the landfill leachate of a coastal city in the north of the Persian Gulf and the sensitive ecosystem (soil and water) around it. Soil (two depths) and water samples were prepared from 5 stations in wet and dry seasons. The studied landfill leachate contained 114–303 μg/L of phthalates. The highest concentration of phthalates was related to bis (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (3257 ng/g) in the wet season at surface soil (0–5 cm) in the landfill site, while the lowest one (6 ng/g) belonged to dimethyl phthalate at sub-surface soil at 700 m from the landfill in the dry season. A significant change in the level of Σ6PEs in the dry (303 μg/L) and wet (114 μg/L) seasons (P ≤ 0.05) was observed for water samples. The PE concentrations in wet times were higher in all soil depths than in dry times. With increasing depth, the content of phthalates decreased in all studied environments. A direct relationship was observed between the phthalates concentration and the pH value of leachate/water and soil. The PEs concentration was linked to electrical conductivity (leachate: R2 = 0.65, P < 0.01 and surface soil: R2 = 0.77, P < 0.05) and the soil organic content. The ecological risk of di-n-butyl phthalate, benzyl butyl phthalate, bis (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate, and di-n-octyl phthalate in the wet season was greater than one. The results showed that significant levels of phthalate esters are released from landfills to the surrounding environment, which requires adequate measures to maintain the health of the ecosystem and nearby residents. • Phthalate esters (PEs) were studied in soil, leachate, and water around a landfill. • The landfill leachate contained 114–303 μg/L of phthalates. • DEHP in surface soil (3.257 ng/g) in the wet season had the highest level. • The PEs concentration in winter was higher than in summer (P < 0.05). • The eco-risk of DnBP, BzBP, DEHP, and DnOP in wet times in soil was >1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • A waste glass catalyst was used to biodiesel production from waste chicken. • Physicochemical properties of the catalyst and biodiesel were characterized. • RSM was able to optimize the data better than ANN. • Biodiesel fulfil most significant European EN14214 standard properties. • The produced biodiesel had no effect on the growth of two bacteria and bean plant. In the current study, a heterogeneous solid base catalyst was manufactured by the reaction of waste glass with NaOH and used to generate biodiesel from chicken fat. The surface technical methods were used to characterize the produced catalyst. The active phase in the catalyst was Na 2 SiO 3. The data showed that the catalyst is efficient to produce biodiesel from chicken fat (90% efficiency up to fourth stages of reuse). The effect of important variables such as reaction time, temperature, catalyst content, and methanol to oil ratio on the biodiesel production efficiency was optimized by RSM-CCD and artificial neural network (ANN). Maximum biodiesel production was calculated as 98.77% and 97.74% using RSM-CCD and ANN, respectively. The quality of the produced biodiesel was checked by ASTM D 6751 and EN 11214 standards. Also, the produced biodiesel was not toxic to plant and microorganisms and it is a biocompatible fuel. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new heterogeneous biochar/CaO/K 2 CO 3 catalyst was fabricated to produce biodiesel from waste edible oil. In this catalyst, the biochar was produced from brown algae of Sargassum oligocystum and CaO from eggshells. The XRD result showed that the biochar, CaO, and synthesized catalyst have a crystalline structure. Response surface methodology-central composite design (RSM-CCD) and artificial neural network (ANN) methods were used to investigate the effect of parameters and determine optimal conditions. Also, the maximum efficiency of biodiesel production (98.83%) was predicted by the RSM-CCD method at 65 °C, 4 wt% catalyst content, 200 min duration, and 18: 1 methanol to oil ratio. The process of biodiesel production was exothermic. The activation energy and frequency factor were calculated 45.53 kJ/mol and 6.03 × 10+4 min−1, respectively. Biodiesel properties were evaluated according to international standards (ASTM D6751 and EN14214). The catalyst was reused for up to 90% efficiency in up to 5 steps. Image 1 • The biochar/CaO/K 2 CO 3 catalyst was fabricated from algal biochar and eggshell CaO. • The catalyst was used to biodiesel production from edible waste oil successfully. • Catalyst properties were characterized using XRD, SEM, BET, FTIR TGA, and AFM. • RSM and ANN were used to optimize the variables of the biodiesel production. • Biodiesel fulfil most significant European EN14214 standard properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This investigation was aimed to identify microplastics in the sediment and mudskipper fish (Periophthalmus waltoni) in mangrove forests in southern Iran. Sediments and mudskipper samples were collected at high, mid, and low tidal points of five stations. A total of 2657 plastic particles in different size, color, shape, and genera were identified from sediment samples and 15 microplastic were isolated from mudskippers. The highest and lowest abundance of isolated microplastics from sediments was observed in mangrove forests of Bidkhoun (urban area) and Bordkhon, respectively while no microplastics were found in the fish tissue in those stations. The black (60%) and white (7%) color microplastics in the mudskipper had the highest and the lowest frequency. The highest and lowest polymers in mangrove forest sediments were corresponded to polystyrene (26%) and polycarbonate (3%), respectively. Raman and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) techniques were used to identify the type of the polymer. Most of the microplastics found were made of polystyrene, polypropylene, and polyethylene terephthalate. The type of studied area and texture of sediment separately affected the frequency of microplastic and mesoplastic (P-value <0.05) in the sediment samples. The abundance of microplastics in the sediment samples of the Bidkhoun mangrove forest was higher than other studied stations due to proximity to urban and industrial areas. The findings of this study raised concerns about microplastic pollution in the mangrove forests of southern Iran, a threat to the ecosystem and public health, which requires careful actions to prevent and diminish its adverse effects. • We studied microplastic in the sediment and mudskipper in Iranian mangrove forests. • Microplastic abundance was correlated to sediment tissue and pH. • Fiber-shaped and white particles were the most common microplastics in sediment. • PS, PP, and PET were dominant polymers in sediment and fish. • The sediment texture affected meso- and micro-plastics frequency (P-value <0.05). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

According to the epidemiological surveys, ambient air pollution has directly related to mortality and different diseases such as cardiovascular and respiratory defects. Among the atmospheric contaminants, criteria air ones (NO 2 , O 3 , PM 2.5/10 , SO 2) demonstrated that have particular importance in the community disease. The overall goal of this paper was to study the impact of criteria air contaminants on the health of the inhabitants of Shiraz city, Iran. To accomplish this, the AirQ 2.2.3 software was applied. The results of the study revealed that the annual average NO 2 , SO 2 , PM 2.5 , PM 10, and O 3 concentrations are 39.98, 27.6, 14.35, 46.16, and 120.03 μg/m3 in 2016 and 30.27, 23.97, 16.45, 51.65, and 52.58 μg/m3 in 2017. The total International Classification of Diseases (ICD), cardiovascular, and respiratory mortalities caused by air contaminants in Shiraz was predicted as 911, 628, and 182 cases in 2016, and 346, 370, and 82 cases in 2017, respectively. Sulfur dioxide (SO 2) had the greatest rate of total mortality with the attributable equivalent of 4.3% in 2016, but this value has been decreased to 0.42% in 2017. The findings of this research revealed that air contamination has caused problems in Shiraz city according to the predicted results. The findings of this work provide useful data for regional and national health policymakers, who should take decisions to develop strategies for control air contaminants and estimate the cost-effectiveness of interventions. • Air pollutants impact on the people of Shiraz was assessed by AirQ model. • Attributable equivalent was computed for respiratory mortality and cardiovascular. • The attributable health effects of NO 2 were low. • Total mortality factor for SO 2 was higher than other pollutants. • Cardiovascular cases due to air pollutants were predicted 628 (2016) and 370 (2017). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ibuprofen antibiotic was oxidized by the 'Zeolite-titanate-UV-Ultrasound-H 2 O 2 ′ system from aqueous solution. • A 'zeolite-titanate' photocatalyst to remove ibuprofen (IBU) was generated. • Effect of the furnace temperature& time on the photocatalyst ability was explored. • BET (39.80 m2/g) and crystallite size (4.97 nm) for the best catalyst were computed. • IBU was removed ~ 98% by 'zeolite-titanate-UV-H 2 O 2 -ultrasonic' system. • The pathway and mechanism for IBU decomposition were revealed. In this study, a photo-catalyst of titanium oxide was coated on zeolite by the sol–gel method. The generation of the zeolite-titanate photo-catalyst was optimized at conditions of calcination temperature (300, 350, 400 and 500 °C), calcination time (1, 2, 3, and 4 h), and titanate content (0, 2, 4, 6, and 8 mL). The catalyst was used for 'Sonication/UV/H 2 O 2 ″ activity and finally, eliminating ibuprofen. Physicochemical properties of the as-built photo-catalysts for all optimized conditions were determined using FESEM-EDX-mapping, BET, FTIR, and XRD. The highest percentage of ibuprofen removal (98.9%) was obtained at conditions of zeolite to titanium ratio of 1 g: 2 mL, time in the furnace of 1 h, and temperature of the furnace of 350 °C. The optimum photo-catalytic (namely, Cat-350-1-2) had a surface area value of 39 m2/g and a crystalline size of 4.9 nm. The surface area for all photo-catalysts increased after being used for ibuprofen removal, possibly due to ultrasonic waves. The presence of Ti-O, benzene ring, O-Al-O, O-Si-O, C–H, and O–H in the photo-catalysts structure were confirmed. Growing the calcination time resulted in an increase in the crystallinity of titanium dioxide in the photo-catalysts and, ultimately a reduction in the ibuprofen removal. The consumed energy by the developed system was calculated for the presence (0.094 kJ/g) and absence (17.5 kJ/g) of the ultrasonic wave. The degradation pathway and reaction kinetic are also explored and proposed. The results showed that the ultrasonic-UV-activated H 2 O 2 -based technique can be applied as an alternative method for ibuprofen removal from aqueous media. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The cefalexin antibiotic was degraded by the 'sea sediment/titanate-UV- Ultrasound-H 2 O 2 ′ system from aqueous media. • Develop a new photocatalyst of "Sea sediment/titanate" to remove cephalexin. • Explore effect of temperature and time in the furnace on photocatalyst properties. • Compute BET (52.29 m2/g) and crystallite size (17.68 nm) for the optimal catalyst. • Remove 94.7% cephalexin by "Sea sediment/titanate-UV- H 2 O 2 -Ultrasonic". • Determine the pathway and mechanism for cephalexin degradation. The aim of the current study was directed to develop a new sea sediment/titanate photocatalyst to remove cephalexin from aqueous media in the presence of ultraviolet (UV) light, hydrogen peroxide (H 2 O 2), and ultrasonic waves. The influence of furnace temperature (300, 350, 400, and 500 °C), furnace residence time (1, 2, 3, and 4 h), and ratio of sea sediment: titanium (0–6 v: w) on the physicochemical properties and the cephalexin removal by the sea sediment/titanate photocatalyst was explored. The technique of FTIR, SEM/EDX, XRD, BET, BJH, and Mapping was used to determine the physicochemical properties of the generated photocatalyst. The maximum cephalexin removal (94.71%) was obtained at the furnace temperature of 500 °C, the furnace residence time of 2 h, and the sea sediment: titanium ratio of 1:6 (=12 mL TiO 2 /2 g sea sediment). According to the acquired results, the surface area of the optimized catalyst, namely Cat-500-2-12, was computed to be 52.29 m2/g. The crystallite size of titanium oxide on the optimum photocatalyst was calculated ~17.68 nm. The FTIR test confirmed the presence of C=C, O-H, C=O, C-S, and C-H functional groups in the photocatalyst. The transformation pathway for the degradation of cephalexin by the developed system was drawn. The present investigation showed that the developed technique (sea sediment/titanate-UV-H 2 O 2 -ultrasonic) could be used as a promising alternative for attenuating cephalexin from aqueous solutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A new nanocomposite was produced from montmorillonite, graphene oxide, and CoFe 2 O 4. • The methyl violet adsorption capacity by MMT/GO/CoFe 2 O 4 was calculated 97.26 mg/g. • Ad(de)sorption of methyl violet was studied up to 10 stages. • Experimental data followed the pseudo-second-order kinetic and Langmuir model. • A textile wastewater sample was treated by using the adsorbent. The purpose of this research was to improve the adsorption properties of montmorillonite (MMT) using graphene oxide (GO) and CoFe 2 O 4 magnetic nanoparticles for methyl violet (MV) removal. The surface analyses were done on the fresh and used composite. The Langmuir isotherm had more ability to describe data than other studied models (Freundlich, Redlich–Peterson, and Toth). The maximum adsorption capacity of MV by MMT, MMT/CoFe 2 O 4 , and MMT/GO/CoFe 2 O 4 was computed to be 59.61 mg/g, 91.27 mg/g, and 97.26 mg/g, respectively. Obtained data for all adsobers were more consistent with the pseudo-second-order kinetic model (R2 > 0.92). The thermodynamic study showed that the MV adsorption by MMT, MMT/CoFe 2 O 4 , and MMT/GO/CoFe 2 O 4 is spontaneous and exothermic. The ad(de)sorption of MV pollutant was studied up to 10 stages. A textile wastewater sample was treated by using the adsober. The MMT/GO/CoFe 2 O 4 magnetic composite demonstrates the high adsorption capacity and suitable reusability toward the MV removal from aqueous media. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Zeolite-zirconium powder (BET: 109.71 m2/g) was used to adsorb fluoride. • Pulse & continuous sonication and stirring modes were tested for fluoride removal. • Energy consumption of sonication mode is much less than stirring. • Adsorption data were consistent with the Freundlich and pseudo-second-order model. • The actual sewage of the glass industry was effectively treated. The current work reports the first application of the fluoride removal using zeolite-zirconium powder in three modes of pulsed sonication, continuous sonication, and stirring. The properties of powdered zeolite-Zr were specified using surface analysis techniques (surface area: 109.71 m2/g and pore volume: 0.08 cm3/g). For all the studied modes, the highest removal rate was observed at pH 7, contact time of 80 min, and zeolite-Zr dose of 3 g/L. Adsorption-desorption experiments were carried out in 6 steps and the fluoride removal was reached to 80% for the final step. The effect of co-existing anions was also studied and chloride and nitrate did not have much effect on efficiency. The powdered zeolite-Zr demonstrated the high ability to remove fluoride from actual wastewater. The data of the present study were well suited to the model of the Freundlich isotherm and the pseudo-second-order kinetic. The pulsed sonication with a maximum adsorption capacity of 32.98 mg/g has been able to demonstrate better performance in comparison with the continuous sonication and stirring mode. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the current study, the influence of iron oxide nanoparticles and chitosan (CS) on the adsorption capacity of natural clay for chromium removal from aqueous media was explored. Clay-based adsorbents (clay, CS/Clay, Clay/Fe 3 O 4 , and CS/Clay/Fe 3 O 4) were manufactured and their physicochemical properties were identified. The effects of operating factors on the adsorption efficiency were optimized. The results showed that the adsorption equilibrium data for the clay, CS/Clay, and Clay/Fe 3 O 4 corresponds to the Langmuir model, while for the CS/Clay/Fe 3 O 4 is consistent with the Freundlich model. The maximum adsorption capacity (q max) of Cr(VI) using clay, CS/Clay, Clay/Fe 3 O 4 and CS/Clay/Fe 3 O 4 were 63.69 mg/g, 80.30 mg/g, 97.08 mg/g, and 117.64 mg/g, respectively. It was showed that the addition of chitosan and Fe 3 O 4 magnetic nanoparticles to the clay increases its adsorption capacity. The values of ΔG° and ΔH° parameter for Cr adsorption using adsorbents were negative, indicating that the removal process is spontaneous and exothermic. The kinetic behavior obeyed the pseudo-second-order model. The chromium removal process using all the adsorbents had a two-step mechanism. The wastewater of a leather factory was effectively treated using clay based-adsorbents. Based on R2, MSE, SSE, and ARE values, good agreement was observed between the ANFIS model and experimental outcomes. • Clay was composited with chitosan (CS) and Fe 3 O 4 for Cr(VI) adsorption. • The maximum Cr-adsorption capacity onto CS/Clay/Fe 3 O 4 was obtained 117.64 mg/g. • The adsorbent mass, Cr(VI) concentration, and pH affected the adsorption efficiency. • The adsorption process was followed pseudo second order kinetic model. • The ANFIS model was used to predict the Cr adsorption efficiency onto adsorbents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Nano-scale adsorbent was produced from eggshell wastes. • Eggshell nano-particles were used as sorbent of Hg(II) and methyl violet dye. • Surface properties of nano-particles were fully determined (BET = 5.6 m2/g). • Sorption data was obeyed Freundlich and second-order kinetic model. • The landfill leachate and textile wastewater was treated by the sorbent. A nano-scale sorbent was produced from eggshell wastes for sorption of Hg(II) and methyl violet (MV) from aqueous solutions and real wastewaters. The properties of the nano-particles were fully determined using SEM, DLS, FTIR, XRD, BET, TGA, AFM, EDAX, mapping, and TEM analyses. The adsorbent structure mainly contained carbonate and silica. The effects of influential parameters including temperature, contact time, initial contaminants concentration, sorbent dose, and initial pH on the removal efficiency were investigated. The maximum sorption efficiency of Hg(II) and MV occurred at pH of 6 and 9 and temperatures of 25 °C and 55 °C, respectively. Freundlich model could be interpreted the equilibrium data of the sorption process of both contaminants. The maximum sorption capacity of Hg(II) and MV using eggshell nano-particles was obtained as 116.27 mg/g and 123.45 mg/g, respectively. The dynamic behavior of the process was studied using two kinetic models. The sorption system performance was also examined and t 1/2 were determined as 4.34 min for Hg(II) and 4.97 min for MV. The sorption process of Hg(II) and MV was exothermic and endothermic, respectively. Effective sorption after seven cycles and successful treatment of landfill leachate and textile wastewater with eggshell nano-particles confirms its adequacy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The fluoride (F) concentrations of 10 brands of cow's milk sold in Iran were analyzed and the exposure to F from milk consumption was calculated. The mean F content of the samples was 0.023 mg/L with a range of 0.014 to 0.04 mg/L. The results of this study showed that the relatively low level of F in commercially available diary milk in Iran would not be expected to cause a significant increase in the daily F intake. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Highlights • The powdered biochar of oak fruit shell was combined with Fe 3 O 4 (=OP/Fe 3 O 4). • Physical-chemical properties of OP/Fe 3 O 4 magnetic composite were fully assessed. • The optimal pH to absorb Co, Ni, and Pb by the powdered OP/Fe 3 O 4 was found to be 6. • Heterogeneous surface was more effective than a homogeneous one in adsorbing metals. • Based on thermodynamic study, the metals adsorption was spontaneous and exothermic. Abstract In this study, the capability of a magnetic composite of oak powder/Fe 3 O 4 (OP/Fe 3 O 4) for the adsorption of lead, cobalt, and nickel ions from aqueous solutions was examined. Characteristics and structure of oak powder (OP) and OP/Fe 3 O 4 magnetic composite were explored by FTIR, SEM, TGA-DTG, VSM, and XRD analysis. The XRD results showed that OP/Fe 3 O 4 magnetic composite and OP were in crystalline form. Kinetic behavior of adsorption process was studied using pseudo-first-order, pseudo-second-order, and Elovich models. Results indicated that the pseudo-second-order model (R2 > 0.999) can better describe the kinetic behavior of the metal adsorption process. Equilibrium behavior of the adsorption process was also tested using Langmuir, Freundlich, Dubinin–Radushkevich (D–R), and Scatchard isotherm models. The results revealed that the adsorption equilibrium data for three metals match with the Freundlich isotherm model (R2 > 0.99). This indicates the effectiveness of heterogeneous surfaces in comparison with homogeneous ones in the adsorption process of metal ions. Moreover, the results showed that the adsorption process of metal ions with the OP/Fe 3 O 4 magnetic composite is physical. Finally, negative values of enthalpy and entropy indicated that the process of the metal ion adsorption is spontaneous and exothermic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Novel nano-TiO 2 /micro ZnO were prepared, and the optimal conditions were reported. • A model for TC removal and experimental parameters effects on efficiency was proposed. • 78.94% of TC removal was achieved at optimal conditions. • pH & flow rate were reported as the important variables employing the RSM method. The photodegradation of tetracycline antibiotics (TC) in an aqueous solution, using the TiO 2 nanoparticles, ZnO microparticles, and TiO 2 /ZnO composite under the UV lamp in a continuous reactor, was performed. The effects of different parameters, such as the initial TC concentration, medium pH, ratio of each photocatalyst, and the flow rate were comprehensively studied. SEM, EDX, and XRD characterization techniques were employed to study the morphology and structure features of the prepared composite. The results revealed that a more significant amount of TC is not easily removed from wastewater. Furthermore, by increasing the pH of the medium to 11, the efficiency of TC degradation was increased, while the amount of removal remained stable at higher pH values. As the flow rate increased up to 190 mL/min, the removal efficiency increased; however, at higher flow rates, lower efficiency was obtained. Moreover, using multivariate analysis and response surface methodology (RSM), a model for removing TC and the effect of experimental parameters on removal efficiency was proposed. The optimal conditions using the RSM method were found to be the reduction efficiency of 78.94 % in pH = 11 (flow rate of 132 mL/min, and TiO 2 concentration of 323 mg) and reduction efficiency of 75.89% in pH = 9 (flow rate of 143.19 mL/min and TiO 2 concentration of 312.73 mg). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Occurrence and frequency of six most prescribed antibiotics (tetracycline, norfloxacin, azithromycin, anhydro erythromycin, cephalexin, and amoxicillin) were assessed in three wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs), and in water and sediments of the Persian Gulf at Bushehr coastline, Iran. The antibiotics concentration in the influent and effluent of septic tank (the hospital WWTP), activated sludge (the hospital WWTP), and stabilization pond (municipal WWTP) ranged between 7.89 and 149.63, 13.49–198.47, 6.55–16.37 ng/L, respectively. Conventional treatment resulted in incomplete removal of most of the studied antibiotics. Furthermore, the activated sludge was more effective in terms of antibiotic elimination compared to the stabilization pond or septic tank. The mean concentration of antibiotics ranged 1.21–51.50 ng/L in seawater and 1.40–25.32 ng/g in sediments during summer and winter. Norfloxacin was the dominant detected antibiotic in seawater, sediments, and influent of two hospital WWTPs. Seasonal comparisons showed significant differences for erythromycin and amoxicillin concentrations in seawater. Spatial variation indicated the role of physicochemical properties on distribution of antibiotics in seawater and sediments. The results emphasize the need to pay attention to antibiotic contamination in water and sediments of the Persian Gulf. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective(s): Diabetes is a metabolic syndrome which is associated with the worldwide major public health problems. There are many natural compounds from the sea-market, as a valuable aquatic source, along with the variety of health and therapeutic benefits. In the present research, with respect to the traditional and ethnic uses of Sargassum oligocystum algae for healing of some diseases which have similar metabolic mechanism to the diabetes, its anti-diabetic effects in animal model was proposed. Materials and Methods: The animals (rat) were divided into the normal control, diabetic control, positive control and, the test groups. The test groups were gavaged with oral doses of 150 and 300 mg/kg of algae hydroalcoholic extracts. After 30 days of intervention the serum glucose, cholesterol, triglyceride, HDLC, LDLC, insulin, insulin resistance, β-cells function and, the histopathology of pancreatic tissue were evaluated. Results: In animals that were fed with algae extracts a significant decrease in the fasting blood glucose, triglyceride and HOMA-IR and an increase in the HOMA-B with no significant impacts on the insulin, cholesterol and HDL were observed. Also, the histopathology evaluations in the groups which were treated with algae extract revealed the regeneration and reconstitution of damaged pancreatic β-cells. Conclusion: The results give evidence that, the S. oligocystum algae extract has a healing effect on diabetes which can be considered as a new research prospect for the natural therapy of diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A biofiltration system was developed to treat benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylene (BTEX) and Hg° vapour from a petrochemical waste stream during overhaul maintenance. The biofilter compost bed was inoculated with a microbial consortium provided by a petrochemical wastewater treatment plant. The effect of the a BTEX concentration (192.6–973.8 g/m 3 h) and empty bed residence time (EBRT) of 20–100 s were studied under the conditions of steady state, transient, shock BTEX-loading, and off-restart. The findings revealed that during a biofilter start-up, an increase in the influent BTEX concentration to around 334.3 g/m 3 h did not notably affect the biofiltration function at an EBRT of 100 s, and the removal efficiency was higher than 98%. Further, the low EBRT of 60 s did not have adverse effects on the BTEX and Hg° biofiltration (the removal efficiency in both was >93%). For the biofiltration system, the BTEX and Hg° critical attenuation capacity were obtained as 663 g BTEX /m 3 h and 12.6 g Hg° /m 3 h respectively. A maximum attenuation capacity of 774.5 g BTEX /m 3 h was achieved in the biofilter when the BTEX loading rate was 973.8 g BTEX /m 3 h. The parameters of k m and r max of the Michaelis–Menten kinetic model were obtained as 0.099 g/m 3 and 0.578 g/m 3 min respectively. Both BTEX and mercury vapours were completely mass balanced during a continuous biofiltration test. In general, the developed treatment system exhibited a good performance in the treatment of the BTEX stream containing Hg° vapour in the off-gas of a petrochemical company. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]