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A fast, simple and cost-effective technique has been used to produce spray-drying porous particles of salbutamol sulfate (SS) for inhalation drug delivery. The particles were produced using water as solvent and ammonium bicarbonate as pore-forming agent. A full factorial experimental design (24) with a central point was used to evaluate the influence of process parameters (drying air inlet temperature, atomization air volume flowrate, feed volume flowrate and the pore-forming agent concentration) on process yield, moisture content, densities and particle size. In addition, particle morphology, in-vitro aerosolization properties, stability and cytotoxicity of selected samples were studied. Within the experimental design parameters window, it was shown that the highest inlet temperature and pore-forming agent concentration were the factors that more affected the process yield and tap density values. Particles with the lowest tap densities values exhibited porous morphology. In addition, the pore-forming agent concentration proved to be the most significant variable affecting particle size. The highest pore-forming agent concentration, the largest particle size. The porous particles exhibit remarkable aerosolization performance, surpassing the performance of previously reported SS porous particles and a commercial formulation. These powders showed a high process yield and the absence of ammonium bicarbonate in the final product, as confirmed by FT-IR. Furthermore, the powders presented good stability even over long periods of time and did not exhibit cytotoxicity on the murine alveolar macrophage cell line RAW 264.7. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Solid waste landfill (SWL) is known as a major pollution source contaminating air, water sources, and soil environment. The main hazard of SWL is leachate including high organic matter and nutrients. Recently, sulphate radical-based advanced oxidation processes (SR-AOPs) based on persulphate (PS) have been applied as a useful method for removal of chemical oxygen demand (COD) and ammonia from landfill leachate (LL). The removal efficiency of the SR-AOPs depends on effective parameters such as pH, oxidant dosage, catalyst dosage, temperature, reaction time, and so forth. Among SR-AOPs, thermal persulphate oxidation (TPO) seems to be promising for removal of both COD and ammonia; however, the high amount of energy cost is regarded as a major drawback. The drawbacks and future challenges for the use of SR-AOPs for LL have been discussed, and some strategies such as using coupled mechanisms of SR-AOPs have been proposed to tackle the common difficulties. Finally, the performance of SR-AOPs for treatment of LL has been compared with hydroxyl radical processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sodium tanshinone IIA sulphate (STS) is a product originated from Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge [Lamiaceae], which exerts an antitumour effect. However, the role of STS on lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) remains unexplored. Our study explores the effect and mechanism of STS against LUAD. LUAD cells were treated with 100 μM STS for 24 h and control group cells were cultured under normal medium conditions. Functionally, the viability, migration, invasion and angiogenesis of LUAD cells were examined by MTT, wound healing, transwell and tube formation assay, respectively. Moreover, cells were transvected with different transfection plasmids. Dual luciferase reporter and RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) assays were used to verify the relationship between miR-874 and eEF-2K. STS significantly decreased the viability (40–50% reduction), migration (migration rate of A549 cells from 0.67 to 0.28, H1299 cells from 0.71 to 0.41), invasion (invasion numbers of A549 cells from 172 to 55, H1299 cells from 188 to 35) and angiogenesis (80-90% reduction) of LUAD cells. Downregulation of miR-874 partially abolished the antitumour effect of STS. EEF-2K was identified to be the target of miR-874, and its downregulation markedly abolished the effects of miR-874 downregulation on tumourigenesis of LUAD. Moreover, silencing of TG2 abrogated eEF-2K-induced progression of LUAD. STS attenuated the tumourigenesis of LUAD through the mediation of the miR-874/eEF-2K/TG2 axis. STS is a promising drug to fight against lung cancer, which might effectively reverse drug resistance when combined with classical anticancer drugs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

External sulphate attack (ESA) interferes with spatial changes in fracture toughness of cemented paste backfill (CPB) and affects its mechanical stability. Large-scale curing column models are developed to investigate the spatial evolution of mode-I and mode-II fracture toughness (i.e. KIC and KIIC) under seepage- and diffusion-induced ESA. It has been found that the seepage-induced ESA leads to spatial changes in KIC and KIIC of CPB at advanced ages and higher extent of degradation of fracture toughness is measured at a deeper position in CPB. Comparatively, KIc can be used as a reliable quantity to estimate KIIc under the diffusion-induced ESA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Artemisinin-hydroxychloroquine sulfate tablets (AH) are regarded as a relatively inexpensive and novel combination therapy for the treatment of various forms of malaria, particularly aminoquinoline drugs-resistant strains of Plasmodium falciparum. Our aim was to conduct acute and subacute oral toxicity studies in non-rodents to obtain more nonclinical data on the safety of AH. Acute toxicity evaluation was performed in beagle dogs at single doses of 230, 530, 790, 1180, 2660, and 5000 mg/kg. Beagle dogs at doses of 0, 56, 84, and 126 mg/kg were used to assess subacute toxicity for 14 days. The approximate lethal dose range for acute oral administration of AH in dogs is found to be 790–1180 mg/kg, and toxic symptoms prior to death include gait instability, limb weakness, mental fatigue, tachypnea, and convulsion. Repeated doses of AH in dogs caused vomiting, soft feces, decreased activity, anorexia, and splenic red pulp vacuolation. Of note, AH could reduce body weight gain and prolong the QTc interval of individual dogs. Therefore, the no-observed-adverse-effect level (NOAEL) and lowest-observed-adverse-effect level (LOAEL) of oral administration of AH for 14 days in dogs are determined to be 84 mg/kg and 126 mg/kg, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The oxidation of sulfur dioxide (SO2) to sulfate in the atmosphere is an important concern in regional air quality, global climate change, and human health. While gas-phase and liquid-phase oxidation of SO2 are widely regarded as important sources of sulfate, the contribution of the heterogeneous oxidation process on particle surfaces is controversial. Recently, this heterogeneous chemistry has been considered to be an important mechanism that is missing in current models to explain sulfate concentrations observed in haze episodes in East Asia. Therefore, the heterogeneous oxidation of SO2 on particles under the conditions of complex air pollution needs to be reassessed. This review summarizes the fundamental understanding of the heterogeneous reactions of SO2 on solid particles such as mineral dust, black carbon, sea salts, organic aerosol, and so on. The factors affecting the mechanism and kinetics of the heterogeneous reactions of SO2, including coexisting components (O3, NO2, H2O2, NH3, and VOCs), reactive sites, surface properties, relative humidity, and illumination, are reviewed. Reactive oxygen species involved in the heterogeneous oxidation of SO2 on particles are discussed. To our knowledge, while previous reviews have appeared on the oxidation of SO2 in the aqueous-phase, this is the first review on the atmospheric heterogeneous reactions of SO2 on the surface of solid particles, which can be of help in understanding the sulfur cycle in the atmosphere and its environmental impacts. A number of recommendations for future research are also presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the performance of recycled aggregate concrete incorporating different sizes and concentrations of coarse aggregate under sodium sulphate and normal water curing. Ten mixes were produced, having two control mixes of 12 to 20 mm and 5 to 12 mm coarse aggregate size. The rest of the mixes have supplementary cementitious material with 0%, 15%, 30%, and 45% substitution of respective sizes normal aggregate by recycled aggregate. The fresh recycled aggregate concrete mixes were assessed through the slump, ball penetration, and compacting factor test, which exhibited a falling trend with the percentage increase of recycled aggregate. Moreover, compressive strength and ultrasonic pulse velocity drop with the percentage of RCA increases at 7, 28, and 91-days normal curing and 5% Na2SO4 solution curing at 91 days. The compressive strength and ultrasonic pulse velocity of 5-12 mm coarse aggregate concrete showed improvement over 12-20 mm coarse aggregate concrete of the same replacement for both curing. However, 5% Na2SO4 solution curing specimens exhibit around 5-11% decrease in compressive strength and higher penetration depth than normal curing . Furthermore, the outer face of the silica fume included samples have received fewer white patches after sodium sulphate immersion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chemical reactions can lead to the expansion of the geomaterial because of the strong precipitation of minerals in the pores of the medium. The quantity and the variability of these reactions led to the development of several chemo-mechanical models. A generic chemo-poromechanical model is proposed to predict both the material degradation induced by various concrete pathologies and the environmental multi-factor impact on the macroscopic swelling. The model is based on the coupling between reactive transport (species diffusion and chemical reactions) and poromechanics. The mineralogy and the poromechanical properties are estimated by a hydration-micromechanics model which allows to consider the material effects. The main applications are dedicated to External Sulfate Attack and Delayed Ettringite Formation of cementitious material at mesoscale. The studies highlight the ability of the model to deal with complex and various phenomena such as coupling chemical reactions with calcium leaching, sulfate sorption and ettringite precipitation, and to consider their impact on the macroscopic expansion. Results also bring out the accuracy of the chemo-poromechanical model to simulate different swelling pathologies. The characteristic crack paths induced by differential strain, material impact, and swelling at the macroscopic scale, fit with experimental observations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Calcium–silicate–hydrate (C–S–H), the most important phase of hydrated portland cement, is responsible for the cementitious system's mechanical properties performance and durability. In a severe environment, C–S–H often suffers from sulphate attack, leading to severe concrete deterioration. The present work describes a detailed mechanism of sulphate attack on C–S–H from 28 to 270 days of sulphate curing (10% Na2SO4 solution) using XRD, TGA, FTIR, 29Si-NMR and FESEM/EDX techniques. The results show that gypsum is the only sulphate-bearing product formed by decalcification of calcium hydroxide first and then of C–S–H. Decalcification enhances polymerization in the C–S–H structure as an additional Q3 peak was observed in FTIR and 29Si-NMR analysis. The microstructure of C–S–H becomes more crystalline as the sulphate curing period increases, as observed in FESEM micrographs. In addition, sulphate adsorption on C–S–H was identified through FESEM/EDX, which could play an important role in the deterioration of cementitious materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sulfate content in mining wastewater can reach concentrations over 2,000 mg·L−1, which is considered as a pollutant of concern. In this article, two cyanobacteria species were cultured using highly sulfated wastewater (3,000 mg·L−1) as the culture medium. This investigation aimed to analyze the sulfate bioremediation potential of microalgae while enhancing the uptaking of this pollutant through the design of a novel nutritional medium. The results obtained show the suitability of Arthrospira maxima as a bioremediation organism of sulfated wastewater. The appropriateness of this organism is based on its great growth performance when cultured in this residue, 2.16 times higher than the initial value. Moreover, the initially obtained sulfate reduction, 23.3%, was significantly enhanced to a final removal of 73% (2,247 mg·L−1). In addition, scanning electron microscopy and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy were used to evaluate sulfur crystallization. To the best of our knowledge, there are no previous works focused on microalgal sulfate removal that have reached such an uptaking rate. Accordingly, this study presents the highest performance on sulfate microalgal bioremediation published to date. Our findings suggest that A. maxima can be cultured for sulfated wastewater bioremediation while showing a removal yield that is theoretically sufficient for industrial applications. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study focused on the bioremediation potential of Arthrospira genre (Spirulin) for highly sulfated wastewaters depuration. Moreover, according to the available data, our study achieved the highest sulfate removal rate by using microalgae as a bioremediation organism. Thus, we strongly believe that our investigation provides up-to-date data in terms of mining wastewaters bioremediation, which can cause a strong impact on how these residues are managed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The reactive MgO (r-MgO)-microbial curing technology can not only effectively improve the strength of electrolytic manganese residue (EMR) but also repair heavy metal ions. By conducting unconfined compressive strength (UCS) test, heavy metal leaching test, X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and mercury intrusion porosimetry (MIP), the effects of the type and concentration of sulfate on the strength and repair of heavy metals of the cured EMR under drying–wetting (DW) cycles were studied, and the strength and the evolution mechanism of heavy metal remediation is elucidated. The results indicate the following: With the increase in the number of DW cycles, the dry density of the samples in high concentration of MgSO4 first increased slightly and then decreased gradually and became stable. The dry density of the samples in Na2SO4, low concentration of MgSO4, and water generally showed a downward trend. The pH of the soaking solution slightly decreased, and the leaching concentration of heavy metal Mn2+ ions always remained at a low level. The UCS of the samples in MgSO4 first increased slightly and then decreased gradually, and then became stable. The amount of cured products first increased and then decreased, and the size of internal pores first decreased and then increased. The UCS of the samples in Na2SO4 and water gradually decreased and became stable. The amount of cured products gradually decreased, and the size of internal pores gradually increased. The research results provide a theoretical basis for the evaluation of resistance against the sulfate corrosion of cured EMR under DW cycles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sulfate-rich effluents have been successfully treated in anaerobic reactors using sulfate-reducing bacteria (SRB). Many authors have demonstrated that these systems require nitrogen and phosphorous supplementation to achieve high sulfate removal rates. However, the resource ratio theory assumes that some species can be dominant according to the nutritional relations used or even without external nutrient supplementation. Thus, this study evaluated the SRB communities in batch reactors without external nitrogen and phosphorus sources based on most probable number (MPN) quantification, denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE) analyses and sequencing. The sulfate and chemical oxygen demand (COD) removal and kinetic parameters were also determined. After 100 days of operation, the sulfate and COD removal achieved 71.8 ± 10% and 86.5 ± 10%, respectively. The SRB population increased from 8.106 to 4x1012 MPN 100mL-1, and the richness of SRB bands was much higher at the end of the experiment compared to the inoculum. In addition, the sequenced bands from SRB-DGGE showed similarities to Desulfacinum infernum, Desulfobulbus sp, Syntrophobacter and Desulfomicrobium aestuarii-related sequences. Therefore, biological treatment of acid mine drainage wastewater was effective in the absence of nutrients, lowering costs and providing high sulfate removal efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It has been acknowledged for years that compounds containing sulfur (S) are an important source of endogenous acid production. In the metabolism, S is oxidized to sulfate, and therefore the mEq sulfate excreted in the urine is counted as acid retained in the body. In this study we show that pH in fluids with constant [Na] and [HEPES] declines as sulfate ions are added, and we show that titratable acidity increases exactly with the equivalents of sulfate. Therefore, sulfate excretion in urine is also acid excretion per se. This is in accordance with the down-regulation of proximal sulfate reabsorption under acidosis and the observation that children with distal renal tubular acidosis may be sulfate depleted. These results are well explained using charge-balance modeling, which is based only on the three fundamental principles of electroneutrality, conservation of mass, and rules of dissociation as devised from physical chemistry. In contrast, the findings are in contrast to expectations from conventional narratives. These are unable to understand the decreasing pH as sulfate is added since no conventional acid is present. The results may undermine the traditional notion of endogenous acid production since in the case of sulfur balance, S oxidation and its excretion as sulfate exactly balance each other. Possible clinical correlates with these findings are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper identifies the critical cement parameters that cause expansive delayed ettringite formation (DEF) and compares them with Australian cement standards and specifications. The comparison shows that general-purpose (GP) cements adhering to Standards Australia and specifications stipulating low sulphate, alkali contents may not be prone to expansive DEF. However, there is a lack of experimental evidence supporting the low risk of Australian cements for expansive DEF. Hence, in this study, the susceptibility of Australian GP cements to expansive DEF under different heat curing temperatures up to 90°C have been studied. Further, these cements have been chemically modified to simulate the characteristics of cements used where deleterious DEF is observed in field cases. The testing protocol included long-term mortar expansion studies supported by phase and microstructural analyses. The results indicate that mortars containing Australian GP cements do not exhibit DEF expansion. Furthermore, increasing the cement sulphate content to 4% or alkali content to 1% did not result in DEF expansion. However, for cements where both the sulphate and alkali contents were increased to 4% and 1%, respectively, mortars generated significant expansion associated with ettringite precipitation. Overall, the results obtained from this study indicate that GP cements complying with Standards Australia and specifications for sulphate and alkali limits are not susceptible to expansive DEF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper explores the effects of concentration of acid activation on the properties of rare earth tailings catalyst. The results show that the denitration activity of rare earth tailings catalyst is enhanced by acid activation. The best denitration activity of catalyst, activated by sulfuric acid of 8 mol/L, is 86%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Surfactants have been used to modulate mechanical properties and hydration of calcium sulfate hemihydrates or other cement-like material, especially to improve the properties of cheap materials. In gypsum industry, β-Hemihydrate (β-H) costs less than the a-hemihydrate but presents lower mechanical strength after hydration. In this study, a group of polysulfonates was designed and synthesized to investigate their structure-performance relationship in hydration of β-H and properties of the gypsum plaster. It was found that the hydration of β-H can be modulated by changing the hydrophilic side chain of the polysulfonates, which endowed the gypsum with differential mechanical strength and water absorption. The sodium alkenyl methyl polyoxyethylene ether amide vinyl/ally sulfonate offered the β-H gypsum highest water absorption, retarded hydration and enhanced mechanical strengths by forming compacter rod crystals. The mechanical strength and water absorption of the gypsum were not in direct proportion to hydrophilicity of the polysulfonates and the molar fraction of sulfonic groups, but related to their McGowan's HLB values. When the HLB values were below 15, the water absorption of β-H gypsum induced by the polymers increases with the increasing HLB values of the polymers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Single crystals of L-alanine and Lithium sulfate doped L-alanine crystals were successfully grown by the slow evaporation method. The powder XRD studies were used to analyze the crystalline nature of the crystals. ICP analysis confirms the presence of lithium in the grown L-alanine crystal. The optical bandgap of grown crystals was measured by UV–Vis spectroscopy, and different functional groups present in the grown crystals have been identified by the FTIR spectral analysis. The dielectric studies of the grown crystals were performed at different temperatures as a function of the frequency. The photoconductivity study contributed its positive photoconducting nature. The second harmonic generation for the grown crystal was confirmed by the Kurtz–Perry technique. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cement–bentonite (CB) slurry cutoff walls are extensively utilized to restrict the horizontal flow of fluids. In this study, cement was replaced by four various contents of 0%, 10%, 20%, and 30% by natural zeolite to evaluate its effects on the unconfined compressive strength, flexural strength, tensile strength, and the coefficient of permeability of cement–bentonite–zeolite (CBZ) specimens. Since underground cutoff walls are always in danger of sulfate attack, the CBZ specimens were immersed in three different containers with three different pH values of 2, 5, and 8 to study the sulfate resistance of this material. Results have indicated that the strength of specimens decreases with an increase in zeolite content at early ages; however, increasing the amount of zeolite up to 20% improves the mechanical properties and permeability of cutoff wall materials at late ages. The bentonite/cement (B/C) ratio equal to 0.2 shows a relatively better response than B/C ratios equal to 0.14 and 0.3. Curing specimens in the sulfate environment increased the mechanical strength of specimens and decreased the coefficient of permeability at first ages. At the late ages, curing in sulfate solutions manifested disadvantageous effects on specimens; however, specimens containing zeolite indicated higher sulfate resistance than specimens without zeolite. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this work is to investigate sulfate removal from aqueous solutions by electrocoagulation (EC). The influence of electrolysis time, initial pH, and current density was carried out. The interaction of the several effects on removal efficiency was also studied. The Box-Behnken experimental design (BBD) in Response Surface Methodology (RSM) was applied in the development of statistical analysis, modeling, and interpretation of the resultant treatment data of sulfate removal by EC. The optimum conditions for highest removal ratio of sulfate from aqueous solution were: current density of 10 mA/cm2, initial pH equal 5 and electrolysis time of 60 min. Sulfate removal efficiency reach a maximum value of 98.76% and the predicted value is 100%. According to ANOVA results, the correlation coefficient (R2) value of 98% proved that experimental data and model predictions agreed well. The R2adj and R2pred were also in a reasonable agreement (98% and 95% respectively). The mathematical model that describes the EC process was determined and proved that all variable had linear and quadratic significant effect on sulfate removal efficiency. The optimum conditions founded using BBD conducted to 60 and 90% of sulfate removal respectively from seawater and brackish water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to identify human cytosolic sulfotransferases (SULTs) that are capable of mediating hyperoside sulfation and examine the impact of genetic polymorphisms on their sulfating activity. Of the thirteen known human SULTs analyzed, five (1A1, 1A2, 1A3, 1C2, and 1C4) displayed sulfating activity toward hyperoside. Kinetic parameters of SULT1C4 that showed the strongest sulfating activity were determined. Ten SULT1C4 allozymes previously prepared were shown to display differential sulfating activities toward hyperoside, revealing clearly the functional impact of SULT1C4 genetic polymorphisms. These findings provided a robust biochemical foundation for further studies on the metabolism of hyperoside by sulfation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, regeneration of DCF-spent activated carbon by microwave (MW) activated persulphate (PS), (MW+PS) and PS alone was investigated. The regeneration processes were optimised to achieve high adsorptive capacity with low operating cost, simultaneously. Optimisation was carried out with Taguchi L9 experimental design. Optimum conditions determined for (MW+PS) process were found as PS dose of 0.3 g, MW power of 406 W, the regeneration time of 8 min and pH of 7, while the optimum conditions determined for PS processes were found as PS dose of 1.5 g PS, the regeneration time of 15 min and pH of 9. At optimum conditions, an adsorptive capacity of 9.8 mg DCF/g GAC with an operating cost of 0.020 €/g GAC and an adsorptive capacity of 5.0 mg DCF/g GAC with an operating cost of 0.077 €/g GAC were found for (MW+PS) and PS processes, respectively. ANOVA analysis found that the most effective parameter to the responses for both regeneration processes was the PS dose, and its effect was 43.5% and 72.5% for (MW+PS) and PS processes, respectively. The regenerated GAC after at least 6 regeneration cycles was found to have a capacity above the adsorptive capacity of the raw GAC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diabetes mellitus is one of the most concerning conditions, and its chronic consequences are almost always accompanied by infection, oxidative stress, and inflammation. Reducing excessive reactive oxygen species and the wound's inflammatory response is a necessary treatment during the acute inflammatory phase of diabetic wound healing. Malva sylvestris extract (MS) containing nanofibers containing neomycin sulfate (NS) were synthesized for this investigation, and their impact on the healing process of diabetic wounds was assessed. Using Design Expert, the electrospinning process for the fabrication of NS nanofibers (NS-NF) was adjusted for applied voltage (X1), the distance between the needle's tip and the collector (X2), and the feed rate (X3) for attaining desired entrapment efficacy [EE] and average nanofiber diameter (ND). The optimal formulation can be prepared with 19.11 kV of voltage, 20 cm of distance, and a flow rate of 0.502 mL/h utilizing the desirability approach. All the selected parameters and responses have their impact on drug delivery from nanofibers. In addition, M. sylvestris extracts have been added into the optimal formulation [MS-NS-NF] and assessed for their surface morphology, tensile strength, water absorption potential, and in vitro drug release studies. The NS and MS delivery from MS-NS-NF has been extended for more than 60 h. M. sylvestris-loaded nanofibers demonstrated superior antibacterial activity compared to plain NS nanofibers. The scaffolds featured a broad aspect and a highly linked porous fibrous network structure. Histomorphometry study and the in vitro scratch assay demonstrate the formulation's efficacy in treating diabetic wound healing. The cells treated with MS-NS-NF in vivo demonstrated that wound dressings successfully reduced both acute and chronic inflammations. To improve the healing of diabetic wounds, MS-NS-NF may be regarded as an appropriate candidate for wound dressing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, uranium(VI) sorption from aqueous sulphate medium using tri-n-octylamine impregnated Siplite LX-16 resin has been investigated using batch experiments. The sorption parameters including aqueous pH, initial U(VI) concentration, aqueous solution volume to impregnated resin weight (v/w) ratio, contact time and the sorption temperature have been studied. The experimental data have been examined by both equilibrium isotherms and kinetic sorption models. It was found that, the sorption process of U(VI) onto the working resin follows both Langmuir and Freundlich isotherms and quite agrees with the pseudo-second order and intraparticle diffusion models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many compounds containing sulfur and phosphorous are present in wastewater of various industries like food processing, paper making, etc. The higher level of phosphate and sulfate ions causes many problems in everyday life. Based on this, nickel monometallic and nickel-cobalt bimetallic nanoparticles were synthesized using leaves extract of Coix lacryma-jobi L. and applied for sulfate and phosphate ions removal. UV-Vis. spectroscopy, fourier transformed infrared spectroscopy; scanning electron microscopy; X-ray diffraction, and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy were used as characterizing techniques for synthesized nanoparticles. UV spectra for Ni nanoparticles showed the absorption band in the 380–400 nm range, while for Ni-Co bimetallic nanoparticles was noticed at 396 nm and 513 nm. Different functional groups were observed in FTIR spectra of leaves extract which acted as reducing and capping agents to form stable NPs. Different factors like adsorbent dosage, pH, temperature, adsorbate concentration, and time were optimized for maximum removal of sulfate and phosphate anions. The antioxidant potential of prepared nanoparticles was assessed by three different methods. The kinetics, thermodynamics, and adsorption isotherms were also studied for these ions removal. In the current study, the green approach was easy, time-saving and proved to be beneficial to remove sulfate and phosphate anions from wastewater. The leaves extract of Coix lacryma-jobi L. were employed for the synthesis of nickel monometallic and nickel-cobalt bimetallic nanoparticles and employed for the removal of sulfate and phosphate ions from aqueous solution. Antioxidant potential of biosynthesized nanoparticles was also assessed. Hence, the biosynthesized nanomaterial found to be novel adsorbent for removal of sulfate and phosphate from waste water. This research work has not been previously reported in literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The impact of p-cresyl sulfate (PCS) and indoxyl sulfate (IS) on the prognosis of patients with uremia remains controversial. We performed a prospective study on peritoneal dialysis (PD) to investigate the relationship between PCS or IS levels with clinical outcomes. This prospective cohort study investigated the association of serum PCS and IS with clinical outcomes in patients undertaking PD. We performed a correlations analysis to explore the influencing factors of PCS an IS. Meta-analysis was conducted to objectively evaluate the prognostic effects of PCS and IS on different stages of CKD patients. A total of 127 patients were enrolled consecutively and followed with an average period of 51.3 months. Multivariate Cox regression showed that serum total PCS not only contributed to the occurrence of PD failure event (HR: 1.05, 95% CI = 1.02 to 1.07, p < 0.001), but also increased the risk of cardiovascular event (HR: 1.08, 95% CI = 1.04 to 1.13, p < 0.001) and PD-associated peritonitis (HR: 1.04, 95% CI = 1.02 to 1.08, p = 0.001). Dividing the total PCS level by 18.99 mg/L, which was calculated from the best cutoff value of the ROC curve, patients with total PCS higher than 18.99 mg/L had worse prognosis. Meta-analysis confirmed its value in cardiovascular event in PD. The serum total PCS concentration was a detrimental factor for higher PD failure event, cardiovascular event, and PD-associated peritonitis. It could be used as an innovative marker in predicting poor clinical outcome in PD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The sorption characteristics of uranium onto a strongly basic anion exchanger, Purolite A400, were investigated. The characteristics of Purolite A400, before and after sorption of uranium, were determined using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energetic-dispersive X-ray (EDX). The influence of the different parameters, which may affect the process of uranium sorption process, had been tracked. Specifically, impacts of initial uranium concentration, pH, contact time and temperature, on uranium removal, were studied. In addition, the sorption kinetics and equilibrium parameters were assessed. At the optimum conditions, the adsorption capacity of uranium was found to be nearly 117.6 mg/g. The kinetics and isotherm studies could show that the uranium sorption onto Purolite A400 is following the models of pseudo-second-order and Langmuir isotherm respectively. The thermodynamic parameters had indicated that the adsorption of uranium is an exothermic and spontaneous process. The detected results of uranium sorption could reveal that Purolite A400 is a suitable material for pre-concentration of uranium (VI) species from sulfate leach liquor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The metal based phosphate and sulfate mixture, Cu3(PO4)2⋅ 1.65 NaH2PO4 ⋅ 1.35 NaHSO4 has been synthesized and characterized with different measurement techniques. Six different composites such as A1, A2, A3, A4, A5 and A6 have been synthesized by charging different proportions of a mixture with a fixed quantity of wall care putty (Birla make). Similarly, four different composites such as B1, B2, B3 and B4 have been synthesized by charging different proportion of a mixture with a fixed quantity of CaCO3 and polyvinyl acetate (PVAc) glue. The C1 mixture has also been synthesized using CaCO3 and polyvinyl acetate (PVAc) glue without the addition of the mixture. The thermal behavior was evaluated in the temperature range 303 K to 573 K and vice versa in two thermal cycles as well as from 173 K from 298 K for one thermal cycle. The thermal behavior of the mixture was studied at a rate of 10 K min−1 while composites were studied at 5 K min−1. The net specific heat capacities (Cp) of composites are found to be, A2 (-0.11 Jg−1K−1), A3 (-0.13 Jg−1K−1), A6 (-0.12 Jg−1K−1), B1 (-0.13 Jg−1K−1), B2 (-0.10 Jg−1K−1), B3 (-0.11 Jg−1K−1) and B4 (-0.17 Jg−1K−1). These composites can be utilized as heat retardant materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.), grown in iron deficient and calcareous soils, exhibits poor growth and yield loss, which may be moderated using biostimulants. A field experiment was conducted to determine the efficacy of the application of iron glutamate (Fe-Glu), iron sulfate (FeSO4), and L-glutamate (Glu) on growth and yield performance. Foliar application included: no treatment (NS), 0.50% FeSO4, 1% FeSO4, 0.50% Fe-Glu, 1% Fe-Glu, 0.50% L-Glu, or 1% L-Glu. Foliar application of 1% Fe-Glu increased plant height by 31%, shoot fresh weight by 25%, root fresh weight by 38%, and canopy diameter by 23%. Exogenous application with 1% Fe-Glu improved the fruit count and overall yield by 57% and 44%, respectively. There was an increase in fruit length by 20% and an increase in fruit diameter by 25%, respectively, due to foliar application of 1% Fe-Glu. Use of 1% Fe-Glu foliar might act as a better biostimulant than conventional sulfate salts in increasing tomato crop performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, an RP-HPLC method was established for the simultaneous quantification of antazoline sulfate and naphazoline nitrate in commercial ophthalmic formulations. The proposed method was validated for sensitivity, selectivity, linearity, accuracy, precision, and stability, and was found to be suitable for routine analysis of these two active ingredients in the presence of degradation products. The optimized conditions using a C18 column, a mobile phase (phosphate buffer: methanol, 80:20), a flow rate of 1.5 mL/min, and detection at 285 nm at room temperature. The quantification method for antazoline sulfate and naphazoline nitrate in the pharmaceutical formulation was validated in accordance with International Conference on Harmonization (ICH) Q2 (R1) guidelines for the quantitative measurement of these pharmaceuticals. Under optimal conditions, a linear relationship with high correlation coefficients (0.9999 for Antazoline Sulfate and 0.9997 for Naphazoline Nitrate) was established between the concentration ranges of 0.11 to 0.35 mg/mL for Antazoline sulfate and 0.006–0.02 mg/mL for Naphazoline nitrate. The detection limits of Antazoline sulfate and Naphazoline nitrate were determined to be 0.3 and 0.06 μg/mL, respectively. The developed method can be useful for quality control and stability testing of ophthalmic formulations containing antazoline nitrate and naphazoline sulfate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, we described a simple method to manufacture a novel nitrile butadiene rubber (NBR) filled with cupric sulfate (CuSO4) and tetramethylthiuram disulfide (TMTD) via simple mixing and heat pressing. Cure characteristics analysis, the motion capability of polymer segments, physical properties, micromorphology, swelling properties and dynamic characteristics were explored comprehensively. The results demonstrated that the three-dimensional network was cross-linked by the metal coordination interactions between the nitrile group and copper ion. The cure curve, tensile strength and crosslinking density exhibited a considerable increasing with the addition of TMTD in NBR/CuSO4 compounds, which was due to the synergistic effect between Cu2+ and Me2NCSn• (n = 1–2) radicals generated by the pyrolysis of TMTD, resulting in the formation of the hyperactive compounds [Cu(SnCNMe2)]•2+ and promoting the coordination crosslinking between -CN and Cu2+ significantly. The NBR/CuSO4/TMTD vulcanizates induced by the synergistic effect would play a crucial role in practical application for the excellent physical properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study investigated the partition and extraction conduct of Cu (II) in Aqueous Two-Phase Systems (ATPS) of Poly (Ethylene Glycol) (PEG)–zinc sulfate in the presence of ammonium thiocyanate as an extractor. The polymer weight percent in the feed (20, 25, and 30%), salt weight percent in the feed (15, 23, and 31%), polymer molecular weight (2000, 4000, and 6000 g.mol-1), and the pH (2.5, 3.6, and 4.7) are the determiners of the partition coefficient of Cu (II) in the target system. The Central Composite Design (CCD) was taken into account to investigate the impacts of various parameters on the partition coefficient of Cu (II) by a quadratic model. High F-value (50.58), very low P-value (<0.0001), non-significant lack of fit, the determination coefficient (R2 = 0.9793) demonstrate an excellent correlation between experimental and predicted values of the response. The model results indicated that the pH and weight percent of the salt in the feed had major and minor effects on the copper ion partition coefficient, respectively. The pH of ATPS can alter the Cu (II) partition coefficient through the variation of the copper ion net charge. The weight percent of polymer in the feed decreased the partition coefficients. Moreover, by increasing the polymer molecular weight, the partition coefficient of Cu (II) was increased. The highest value for the productivity of Cu ions extraction was found to be 93.3% with regard to the excellent separation factors (pH = 4.7, PEG molecular weight = 6000, PEG concentration = 20 and salt concentration = 15) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Large amounts of waste white cement bypass dust (WCBPD) are generated in huge heaps near white cement factories in Jordan, posing growing environmental concerns related to potential hazardous impact and additional disposal cost. This research evaluates possible and suitable recycling of WCBPD as a partial replacement of Portland cement in the production of the rapidly expanding roller compacted concrete (RCC). This experimental work aims to test the influence of using different proportions (10, 20, 30, and 40%) of WCBPD on the mechanical performance and durability of RCC subjected to sulphate attack. The investigation included compressive strength, a non-destructive test (ultrasonic pulse velocity), water absorption coefficient, and the sulphate linear expansion test. The experimental results were promising for recycling WCBPD as fractions of Portland cement in RCC mixtures at small amounts. Compared to reference cylinders, the reduction in compression strength was about 10, 28, 32 and 39% for 10, 20, 30 and 40% WCBPD replacement ratios, respectively. All RCC mixtures showed satisfactory sulphate resistance since no significant loss in compressive strength nor a significant increase in expansion ratio occurred due to sulphate exposure. The reductions in compressive strength at 180 days of sulphate exposure were 12.8, 15.6, 15.9, 16.1 and 16.6% for RCC cylinders prepared with WCBPD partial replacements of 0, 10, 20, 30 and 40%, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fe-600 grade steels are recommended for high rises and other structures in India that require high-load carrying capacity (particularly in seismic zones) due to its excellent mechanical properties. But structures in food processing, agricultural waste handling, etc., industries and high rises are subjected to attack of sulphates as well as acid rain. The present work investigates the efficacy of electroless nickel coatings in corrosion prevention of Fe-600 grade rebars exposed to aggressive sulphate environment. Ni-P, Ni-P-W and Ni-P-Cu coatings were deposited on the rebars. Electrochemical tests such as potentiodynamic polarization and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy were employed to investigate the corrosion behaviour in 0.5 M sulphuric acid. It was seen that corrosion potential of rebars was nobler when they were coated with electroless nickel ternary variant coatings. Electrochemical impedance spectra also validated the same. Scanning electron microscope images of the surface of the bare rebars post electrochemical tests revealed a completely cracked morphology due to severe attack of sulphates. Whereas the surface of Ni-P-W coated rebar revealed the least damage and highest corrosion resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding how individual pollution sources contribute to ambient sulfate pollution is critical for assessing past and future air quality regulations. Since attribution to specific sources is typically not encoded in spatial air pollution data, we develop a mechanistic model which we use to estimate, with uncertainty, the contribution of ambient sulfate concentrations attributable specifically to sulfur dioxide (SO2) emissions from individual coal-fired power plants in the central United States. We propose a multivariate Ornstein–Uhlenbeck (OU) process approximation to the dynamics of the underlying space-time chemical transport process, and its distributional properties are leveraged to specify novel probability models for spatial data that are viewed as either a snapshot or time-averaged observation of the OU process. Using US EPA SO2 emissions data from 193 power plants and state-of-the-art estimates of ground-level annual mean sulfate concentrations, we estimate that in 2011—a time of active power plant regulatory action—existing flue-gas desulfurization (FGD) technologies at 66 power plants reduced population-weighted exposure to ambient sulfate by 1.97 μg/m3 (95% CI: 1.80–2.15). Furthermore, we anticipate future regulatory benefits by estimating that installing FGD technologies at the five largest SO2-emitting facilities would reduce human exposure to ambient sulfate by an additional 0.45 μg/m3 (95% CI: 0.33–0.54). for this article are available online. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Processed spent bleaching earth (PSBE) is the end product derived from the processing of de-oiled spent bleaching earth (SBE) after the oil is recovered. Bleaching earth is very fine powder clay, and its main component is silicon dioxide used for refining process of palm oil and its by product is known as SBE is commonly disposed to landfill. The bleaching earth that is used for decolouring during the palm oils refining process form a solid sludge called the SBE. The SBE is generated in large quantities and it is becoming increasingly difficult to ignore the disposal of SBE when production of palm oil increases rapidly. Hence, the problem can be overcome by reusing solid waste as construction materials. In this study, the effect of using PSBE as a partial cement replacement in foamed concrete on durability resistance sulphate attack is investigated. Sulphate resistance in terms of expansion, loss in mass and loss in compressive strength after 52 weeks immersed in 5% sodium sulphate was evaluated. On the other hand, the microstructure changes in the specimens were analysed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and thermogravimetry analysis (TGA). Comparisons are made between two mixtures which main ly control foamed concrete (FC) and foamed concrete containing 30% PSBE (PFC). Major findings show that when 30% PSBE added in a concrete mixture, after 52 weeks samples being immersed in 5% sodium sulphate, it will be more durable compared to control specimen (FC). It was recorded that change in mass, in expansion and loss in strength was 1.32%, 0.98% and 7.5% respectively. The microstructure study has confirmed that inclusion of PSBE in foamed concrete is known to improve the internal structure of PFC to be denser than control FC specimen with the visible image of crowded tiny of cotton shaped (CSH) and few hexagonal plates (CH) contributing to enhanced strength and durability. Conclusively, the foamed concrete containing 30% PSBE as partial cement replacement which exhibits enhanced strength and durability than plain foamed concrete has the potential to be used in construction application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anaerobic ammonium oxidation (Anammox) was an innovative process for nitrogen removal. In this study, the influence of sulfate in different concentrations (100, 200, 300, and 400 mg L−1) on Anammox process were investigated in nine identical sequential batch reactors, four of which were extra supplied for organics, to study the combined effect. The results indicated the obvious inhibition by sulfate which decreased the total nitrogen removal efficiency (TNRE) to 84.1%, 81.2%, 81.2%, and 72.5%, from the control results as 91.9%. Whereas, the organics addition alleviated the inhibitory effect, through consuming the oxygen in influent, promoting the secretion of protein, and inducing the denitrifying bacteria, for which the sulfate only slightly decreased the TNRE to 89.0%, 83.7%, 83.6%, and 75.7%, respectively. Candidatus Kuenenia and Denitratisoma could coexist in Anammox system and cooperatively contribute to the nitrogen removal, when treating the nitrogenous wastewater contains both sulfate and organics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper analyzes the ability of magnesium oxide-based additives to stabilise a low bearing gypsum marly soil, in order to reach subgrade requirements. This soil was not adequate for stabilisation with lime or cement because of its high sulphate content. Binders considered in this investigation were composed of three reactive Mg products and by products, both with and without ground granulated blast furnace slags (GGBS). They were compared to two cements and an aerial lime as soil stabilisers in a laboratory investigation and a field trial. Laboratory tests showed that Mg products with GGBS reached strength results close and at times even better than those of cement. One of the Mg products was the only additive able to reduce the natural soil swelling. Leaching tests demonstrated the ability of the Mg products to reduce the soil leaching of substances like calcium, magnesium, sulphate and chloride. In field trials two of the Mg products combined with GGBS met the bearing capacity requirements for subgrades, in accordance with the Spanish standard. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the objective of developing a localized gentamicin sulfate (GS) delivery system with a controlled release kinetics for the prevention/management of osteomyelitis, composite electrospun fibers composed of poly(lactic acid) (PLA) and poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) blends and GS loaded mesoporous silica nanoparticles (npSiGS) were prepared (PLA/PLGA: 1:3, 1:1, 3:1 w/w). GS was loaded into silica nanoparticles by adsorption, using a concentrated GS solution, and npSiGS were dispersed in the polymer solutions and immobilized in the polymeric matrix by occlusion, during fibers formations. For comparison, non-composite fibers with the same blend compositions containing GS simply dispersed in the polymeric phase were also produced. GS loaded nanoparticles were characterized by nitrogen adsorption/desorption isotherms and GS loading was quantified by thermogravimetric analysis. The morphology of the electrospun fibers, assessed by SEM, revealed that npSiGS were embedded along the composite fibers, some in the form of small aggregates. In vitro release studies showed that composite fibers exhibited lower initial burst releases and slower release kinetics, dependent on blend composition. Composite fibers with PLGA as the major component (25PLA-npSiGS) had the fastest release kinetics, while fibers with equal amounts of both polymers (50PLA-npSiGS) or with PLGA as the minor component (75PLA-npSiGS) had slower release kinetics, with constant GS release rates after the first day. These results suggest that PLA/PLGA blend composition can be manipulated to obtain composite fibers with a controlled and tailored GS release for at least three weeks. Finally, the antibacterial effect against Staphylococcus aureus of all produced fibers containing GS was confirmed by a disk diffusion method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acid mine drainage (AMD) causes serious environmental issues once present in the food chain directly affects human health due to its high acidity, the presence of heavy metals and sulphate compounds. For this reason, the constant search for new technologies for the treatment of AMD is becoming increasingly necessary. This review aims to highlight the characteristics and damage caused by AMD and the main treatment approaches. With special emphasis on anaerobic bioreactors containing sulphate-reducing bacteria (SRB) as a sustainable and economical alternative for the treatment of this type of effluent, due to the ability of microorganisms to use toxic metals in their metabolism, besides generating alkalinity in the environment and neutralising acidic compounds. SRB metabolise the electron donor and the sulphate ion, generating hydrogen sulphide and carbonic acid. In this way, future perspectives and major advances involving the treatment of this wastewater through microorganisms were addressed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We sought to determine whether the insulin mimicking agent, vanadyl sulphate (Van) can inhibit biomarkers of endothelial injury and coagulation and thrombosis induced by a moderate level of hyperglycaemia. Hyperglycaemia was induced in rats by a single injection of streptozotocin (STZ, 50 mg/kg) two weeks after being fed on a high-fat diet (model group). The treatment group started Van (20 mg/kg/day) treatment one-week post STZ injection and continued on Van until being sacrificed at week 10. Administration of Van to the model group significantly (p <.05) ameliorated dyslipidemia and biomarkers of inflammation (TNF-α, IL-6, and hsCRP) and endothelial injury (E-selectin, P-selectin, sICAM-1, sVCAM-1, and ET-1). Van also significantly inhibited hyperglycaemia-induced blood levels of coagulation (vWF) and thrombosis (PAI-1 and fibrinogen) biomarkers. Vanadyl sulphate effectively suppresses hyperglycaemia-induced endothelial injury, coagulation and thrombosis, which is associated with the inhibition of inflammation and dyslipidemia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The primary goal of this study was the development of a recycling process to recover titanium from real sulfate leach liquors prepared from the tailings of uranium processing mine. Preparation and characterization of pure TiO2 powders using; a clean, cheap, and low-temperature combined solvent extraction/electrochemical deposition technique were reported. Solvent extraction using di(2-ethylhexyl) phosphoric acid in kerosene allowed the selective recovery of Ti (IV) from the leach liquor containing Fe, Mn, and Zr impurities. All of the Ti was extracted selectively using 20% D2EHPA/kerosene under organic/aqueous phase ratio of unity in presence of L-ascorbic acid. The equilibrium in 8.5 M sulfuric acid is established within 60 min. Subsequently, Ti was recovered from the loaded organic phase using mixtures of HCl and H2O2 solutions. The preparation of TiO2 powders by cathodic electrodeposition was optimized. A combination of X-ray diffraction and dynamic light scattering analysis had been used to confirm the formation of TiO2 nanoparticles. Finally, the solvent extraction and electrodeposition mechanisms were discussed, and the resultant products were characterized by several techniques. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Concrete is widely used for lining structure in underground facility and unfortunately it is often attacked by coupling effects of external sulfate and triaxial compressive stress transferred from surrounding soil or rock formations. In this text, a model is developed to depict the coupling effects of mechanical loading and external sulfate attack on concrete lining. The total strain is composed of elastic strain and plastic strain characterised by modified Drucker–Prager criterion, and the deterioration of mechanical properties is related to both mechanical damage and chemical damage. The former considers microcracks generation through micromechanical operations, and the latter is defined by the molar concentration of total sulfates in concrete. A simple diffusion equation is deduced from the sulfate ions diffusion-reaction process to depict the distribution of the total sulfates in both solution and solid phase. A relationship between chemical damage and sulfates concentration is established based on experimental results. The proposed model is then implemented into COMSOL multiphysics to analyse the long-term stability of concrete lining subjected to external sulfate attack in a tunnel. The numerical results show that the simulation results match the experimental data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The removal of phenol compounds (such as phenol (Ph), 4-chlorophenol (4-CPh), and 4-phenolsulfonic acid (4-APS)) was studied using catalytic ozonation and cerium oxide (CeO2) as the catalyst. Conventional ozonation removes 40% and 30% of total organic carbon (TOC) for 4-CPh and 4-APS, respectively. The presence of the catalyst doubled the TOC removal in comparison with ozone alone. Chloride and sulfate ions, detached from the target compounds, did not affect the mineralization degree. The effect of ions was studied by adding NaCl and Na2SO4 during the ozonation of Ph with CeO2 as a catalyst. The O3-CeO2 process was responsible for 89% TOC removal, while the presence of NaCl and Na2SO4 decreased TOC removal by nearly 50%. Ozonation alone only removed 20% of TOC at 120 min with or without inorganic salts. The presence of salts in the Ph ozonation provoked in detrimental effect in comparison when inorganic ions were produced along with the decomposition of 4-CPh and 4-APS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lake Sevan is a meso-eutrophic water body, which was severely impacted by anthropogenic level decrease, pollution and eutrophication during the last century. Starting in the 1970s, these processes resulted in the formation of an oxygen-depleted hypolimnion during summer–autumn stratification of the lake. In this work, we demonstrate for the first time that eutrophication of the lake leads not only to the full depletion of oxygen and nitrate in the hypolimnion but as well to the presence of sulfate-reducing microorganisms and toxic hydrogen sulfide. Concentrations of hydrogen sulfide in the hypolimnion of Major and Minor Sevan in October were as high as 9 and 39 μM, respectively. In October 2019, 66 % of lake's bottom was covered by sulfidic waters, while the fraction of sulfidic water volume reached 19 %. Values of δ34S for hypolimnetic sulfide are lower by only 7–12 ‰ compared to epilimnetic sulfate, while δ33S values of sulfide are similar to the δ33S values of sulfate. These isotopic fingerprints are not consistent with microbial sulfate reduction as the sole source of hydrogen sulfide in the hypolimnion. We attribute the formation of a sulfidic deep-water layer to a combination of microbial sulfate reduction in the water column and diffusion of hydrogen sulfide from the sediments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A lysimeter experiment was conducted to investigate the environmental effects of applying farm dairy effluent (FDE) treated with a chemical coagulant (polyferric sulphate) to land. The coagulant was administered as part of an effluent treatment system known as ClearTech. Two products are produced from the treatment process; treated effluent (TE) and clarified water (CW). Applications were applied in May. When compared to FDE, TE and CW reduced E. coli, Total-P and dissolved reactive P (DRP) leaching losses. Escherichia coli leaching losses were reduced by 99.97% and 99.99% for TE and CW, respectively. This was because of the acidity of the added coagulant and the encapsulation of the bacteria in the flocculated sediment. Compared to FDE, Total-P leaching losses were reduced by 90.5% and 85.7% for TE and CW, respectively. DRP leaching losses were also reduced under TE and CW by 99.5% and >99.99%, respectively. Reductions in phosphorus leaching were attributed to the reduced P solubility, resulting from the iron added in the coagulant binding to the phosphorus. There was no significant difference between treatments in the amount of iron leached, greenhouse gas emissions or Mineral-N leached (except where additional ammonium-N was added to the clarified water). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We prepared and characterized a high-t tetragonal polymorph of diamminesilver(I) sulfate (a = 8.6004(4) Å, c = 6.2123(6) Å) (compound 1-HT). The phase transformation of the low-temperature polymorph of diamminesilver(I) sulfate (compound 1-LT) into the high-temperature polymorph (compound 1-HT) partly coincides with the initial stage of the thermal decomposition of 1-LT. Selecting appropriate conditions, we separated the two processes and determined the standard heat of formation of the LT polymorph (ΔH298 = −1208.92 kJ/mol) and the enthalpy of polymorphic transformation (ΔHLT→HT = 13.18 kJ/mol). The high-temperature XRD results showed that the lattice constants of the LT polymorph (1-LT) extend in the direction of a, b, and compress in the direction of c in the 1-HT polymorph. According to high temperature SXRD data, the Ag–Ag distance (in the direction of c) shortens from 3.20 Å (1-LT) to 3.11 Å (1-HT), while the extension in the a,b direction weakens/disrupts the N-H...O-S hydrogen bonds and the coordinative Ag...O-S interactions. The IR and Raman spectroscopic data confirm the weakening/breaking of N-H...O-S hydrogen bonds. A vacuum-assisted thermal deammoniation experiment of 1-LT in the preparation of monoamminesilver(I) sulfate showed that the product is the mixture of silver(I) sulfate and the initial diamminesilver(I) sulfate complex. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main aim of the present work is to prepare a natural extractant from the Egyptian plant remains, banana peels. The latter were chosen because they are considered among the popular and widespread plant wastes in Egypt. In this study, banana peels were investigated as a solvent to extract uranium ions from sulfate leach liquor. A synthetic sulfate solution was firstly conducted to optimize the extraction conditions. The work was then oriented to extract uranium from Abu Thor ore sulfate leach liquor. Finally, the results proved that uranium can be efficiently recovered from its sulfate solution using banana peels extractant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The direct and indirect competitive fluorescence-linked immunosorbent assay (FLISA and icFLISA) incorporating quantum dots (QDs) for the detection of fleroxacin (FLE) was established for the first time in this study. The monoclonal antibody specific for FLE was successfully conjugated with QDs after purification by the caprylic acid-ammonium sulphate method. The limits of detection of FLISA and icFLISA were 0.012 ng/mL and 0.006 ng/mL, respectively; IC50 were 0.32 ng/mL and 0.19 ng/mL; and the detection ranges were 0.012–24.490 ng/mL and 0.006–16.210 ng/mL. The recovery was 93.8%-112.4% and the coefficient of variation was below 11.75%. The fabricated FLISA and icFLISA are cost-effective, high sensitive and can be an alternative method in the detection of FLE residues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Atmospheric aerosols containing ammonium sulfate have several morphological types in the solid phase. Laboratory experiments were used to reproduce the particle shapes commonly found in atmospheric samples to elucidate factors affecting these different particle shapes. Ammonium sulfate particles and mixed particles with oxalate were prepared under different relative humidity (RH) conditions and were observed using transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Most ammonium sulfate particles dried using a diffusion dryer after generation from aqueous solution were spherical or clusters of spherical units. However, after exposure of the TEM samples to 59% RH and 75% RH at atmospheric pressure, some particles changed to a rotundate-rectangular shape with parallel straight lines as the particle perimeter. Number fractions of particles that had changed to rotundate-rectangular shape from a spherical shape at 59% RH and 75% RH were, respectively, 6% and 52% at 3 h, and 18% and 66% at 1 day. Morphological changes during the experiment suggest that ammonium sulfate crystallization occurred under metastable RH. Morphological changes to rotundate-rectangular shapes were also found for ammonium sulfate co-existing with oxalate. These results indicate that spherical or complexly shaped sulfate-containing aerosols can change gradually to shapes having more regular structures according to a particle's experienced RH condition. Both spherical and rotundate-rectangular shapes of sulfate particles have often been found in atmospheric aerosol samples. The morphological change of ammonium sulfate found in this study will be useful to infer the optical properties of atmospheric particles and the thermodynamic process on a solid particle surface. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Synergistic antibacterial effect of green synthesized silver nanoparticles combined with antibiotic on Escherichia coli (Gram-negative) and Staphylococcus aureus (Gram-positive) was conducted, respectively. Well diffusion, growth curve, anti-biofilm, and colony formation were applied to evaluate its antimicrobial activity. Significant synergistic effect was found when silver nanoparticles were combined with streptomycin sulfate at ratios of 8:2 and 9:1 for E. coli, while 5:5 and 8:2 for S. aureus. It suggested that silver nanoparticles were proved to be an efficient antibacterial agent, and the challenge like drug resistance would also be able to resolve under the condition of silver nanoparticles combined with antibiotics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]