Search

Extensive research has examined the diffusion of innovations for products that can be trialed, and where the most adverse outcome, if a product fails, is a financial loss. However, less research has explored consumer responses to innovations in highly uncertain contexts characterized by health losses, lack of trialability, and the opportunity to free ride on other's adoption. This research focuses on vaccine decision making as a unique case within such contexts and extends the findings to other domains. Four studies (Ntotal = 1,796; five supplementary studies, Ntotal = 643) test the propositions of a formal model that incorporates uncertainty and others' choices into the adoption decision. The results show that consumers are surprisingly averse to products that are described as employing a new technology (e.g., mRNA technology) and require an "efficacy premium" to compensate for higher perceived uncertainty. However, considerable heterogeneity exists due to individual differences in technology readiness, trust in government, and risk attitudes. Notably, despite the prominent threat of free riding, a social proof nudge (communicating increasing population adoption) effectively reduces aversion to new technology. In this context, social proof information does not merely drive conformity or social learning, but instead increases adoption of new technology by alleviating perceived uncertainty. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In our paper, we encompass the topic of socioeconomic disparities intrinsic to drug pricing and look at ways to ensure that every individual in the United States can access antibiotics equally and equitably. In the United States, a multitude of individuals find themselves struggling with high, out-of-pocket costs for necessary antibiotics or medications.  These issues are generally caused by factors surrounding monopolistic drug markets, high costs for development, and the severity of disease that an individual is facing. We explore these challenges from a plethora of perspectives, such as; the role of specialty pharmacies, limited distribution networks, and the usage of psychotropic medications among youth with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). High prices and restricted access of certain antibiotics for conditions like Hepatitis C highlight the systemic and intrinsic issues within the pharmaceutical industry and how it affects individuals who suffer from this disease or diseases similar to it. On a similar topic to that, ongoing shortages of ADHD medications continue to show the consistent and heavy impact of supply constraints amongst the pharmaceutical industry in the United States. We discuss potential solutions, including but not limited to, accelerating the approval of basic drugs, implementing ceiling prices to prevent high costs, and better integrating health-system specialty pharmacies. By concentrating on the need for policy reforms within the United States and collaboration amongst the various stakeholders that remain involved with drug pricing disparities, this study aims to offer a varied approach in reducing drug pricing disparities and making necessary medications accessible to every individual in the United States, regardless of socioeconomic or health status.

IntroductionIn recent years, Volcanoes National Park has seen a rise in its wildlife population, primarily due to the diligent efforts of the Rwandan government in safeguarding endangered species, notably the mountain gorillas (Gorilla beringei spp. beringei). This population growth has led to a pressing need for more expansive habitats, ensuring these creatures have ample space, sustenance, and shelter for their wellbeing. Consequently, there are planned park expansion activities on the horizon. However, before initiating this expansion, a critical prelude involves identifying potential threats, particularly toxic substances stemming from agricultural activities in the surrounding environment of Volcanoes National Park.MethodsTo address this concern, a comprehensive study was conducted, aimed at pinpointing potential toxic hazards and assessing the awareness of the local population regarding the harm these hazards pose to wildlife species. Data was collected from individuals with no prior knowledge of the study using a pre-tested questionnaire. The questionnaire was divided into three sections: socio-demographic issues, potential toxic hazards assessment, and a section to determine awareness and risk of potential toxic hazards to humans, animals, and the environment. Respondents were selected based on specific criteria, which included being 18 years or older and residing within the National Volcano Park (NVP) area.ResultsThe study's findings revealed four main categories of potential toxic hazards, which include household chemicals, pharmaceutical products, agricultural pesticides, and poisonous plants. These hazards could jeopardize the health and survival of wildlife species if they consume or come into contact with them. Furthermore, the study exposed an inadequacy in the knowledge and skills of the local community in preventing these toxic hazards, which can result in death of wildlife species and ecosystem contamination and degradation.ConclusionStudy results also underscored the significance of education and training in enhancing the awareness of local communities concerning these toxic threats. Therefore, it is imperative to implement immediate measures to mitigate the adverse effects of these toxic hazards on wildlife species, especially in light of the planned park expansion.

A novel technique for effervescent-based dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction is reported. Rapid and continuous effervescence, driven by hydrogen bubbles, was utilized to transfer the analyte from the aqueous to the organic phase. The reactivity of magnesium metal with water was exploited to generate a stream of hydrogen bubbles. In this method, an aqueous sample solution, contained in a microcentrifuge tube, was treated with 1 mg of magnesium and 100 µl of 1-undecanol. Microextraction was initiated by the addition of 100 µl of 1 M sodium bicarbonate to induce a rapid stream of hydrogen bubbles. The microcentrifuge tube was cooled to allow the solidification of 1-undecanol which was carefully separated and analyzed. Factors potentially affecting extraction efficiency were optimized, including the magnesium mass, concentration of sodium bicarbonate, extraction time, pH, open/closed system, sample volume, temperature, and analyte concentrations. These studies revealed the required speed and minimum concentration of sodium bicarbonate, as well as the possibility of efficient microextraction without sodium bicarbonate but in acidic conditions or at elevated temperatures (45–50 °C). The analytical performance was assessed and demonstrated to be promising. In the case of the model drug quercetin, the limit of detection (LOD) was determined to be 0.051 µg/ml, the limit of quantification (LOQ) was 0.154 µg/ml, and the extraction efficiency was 100%. The applicability of this method was also evaluated on samples with variable physicochemical properties, demonstrating an automated, fast, and efficient liquid–liquid microextraction protocol. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, we employed a new ambient ionization mass spectrometry technique, sandpaper spray mass spectrometry (SPS‐MS), as an efficient tool to analyze pills and tablets of pharmaceutical formulations. The following samples were analyzed: regulators of blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes, and drugs for the treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED). Additionally, a hard candy of Cannabis sativa containing Δ9‐tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9‐THC) and its related isomer cannabidiol (CBD) was also evaluated. The surfaces of the samples, without any prior treatment, were sanded onto triangular‐cut sandpaper, and full MS scans (and MS/MS) were acquired in both positive and negative ionization modes. SPS‐MS (and MS/MS) allowed for prompt detection of the active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) in each formulation. Other components of the formulations, added as excipients, were also tentatively identified. The results described herein indicate that the SPS‐MS technique can be applied to fast screening of pills and tablets being potentially used as an efficient tool to detect counterfeit pharmaceutical and illicit products, a current issue of increasing concern. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article aims to contribute to the discussion about medication literacy, by focussing on the social contextuality of the information mobilised in the use of medicines. We aim to explore the social construction processes of medication literacy, as an essential dimension for a more layperson-centred approach in the promotion of literacy in this field. This approach is justified by the growing social and cultural dissemination of medication use, the diversification of its uses beyond health and illness, and the increasing degree of lay autonomy in managing its use. The article is organised in two main sections. In the first section, we review the social history of medication literacy, including a discussion of the social contextuality of literacy phenomena. In the second section, the analysis of social contextuality is operationalised with a focus on information, covering: (i) ways of relating to institutional information and sources of information about medication; (ii) contexts of sociability in which information is shared and validated. This analysis is empirically supported by selected results from two research projects, conducted in Portugal, on the consumption of medicines and dietary supplements for performance purposes – that is, for the management and/or improvement of cognitive, bodily or relational performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pharmaceuticals in aquatic environments pose threats to aquatic organisms because of their continuous release and potential accumulation. Monitoring methods for these contaminants are inadequate, with targeted analyses falling short in assessing water quality's impact on biota. The present study advocates for integrated strategies combining suspect and targeted chemical analyses with molecular biomarker approaches to better understand the risks posed by complex chemical mixtures to nontarget organisms. The research aimed to integrate chemical analysis and transcriptome changes in fathead minnows to prioritize contaminants, assess their effects, and apply this strategy in Wascana Creek, Canada. Analysis revealed higher pharmaceutical concentrations downstream of a wastewater‐treatment plant, with clozapine being the most abundant in fathead minnows, showing notable bioavailability from water and sediment sources. Considering the importance of bioaccumulation factor and biota–sediment accumulation factor in risk assessment, these coefficients were calculated based on field data collected during spring, summer, and fall seasons in 2021. Bioaccumulation was classified as very bioaccumulative with values >5000 L kg–1, suggesting the ability of pharmaceuticals to accumulate in aquatic organisms. The study highlighted the intricate relationship between nutrient availability, water quality, and key pathways affected by pharmaceuticals, personal care products, and rubber components. Prioritization of these chemicals was done through suspect analysis, supported by identifying perturbed pathways (specifically signaling and cellular processes) using transcriptomic analysis in exposed fish. This strategy not only aids in environmental risk assessment but also serves as a practical model for other watersheds, streamlining risk‐assessment processes to identify environmental hazards and work toward reducing risks from contaminants of emerging concern. Environ Toxicol Chem 2024;43:2252–2273. © 2024 SETAC [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aqueous photolysis of four pharmaceuticals with varying fluorinated functional groups was assessed under neutral, alkaline, advanced oxidation, and advanced reduction conditions with varying light sources. Solar simulator quantum yields were 2.21 × 10−1 mol Ei−1 for enrofloxacin, 9.36 × 10−3 mol Ei−1 for voriconazole, and 1.49 × 10−2 mol Ei−1 for flecainide. Florfenicol direct photolysis was slow, taking 150 h for three degradation half‐lives. Bimolecular rate constants between pharmaceuticals and hydroxyl radicals were 109 to 1010 M−1 s−1. Using a combined quantitative fluorine nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (19F‐NMR) and mass spectrometry approach, fluorine mass balances and photolysis product structures were elucidated. Enrofloxacin formed a variety of short‐lived fluorinated intermediates that retained the aryl F motif. Extended photolysis time led to complete aryl F mineralization to fluoride. The aliphatic F moiety on florfenicol was also mineralized to fluoride, but the resulting product was a known antibiotic (thiamphenicol). For voriconazole, the two aryl Fs contributed more to fluoride production compared with the heteroaromatic F, indicating higher stability of the heteroaromatic F motif. The two aliphatic CF3 moieties in the flecainide structure remained intact under all conditions, further supporting the stability of these moieties found in per‐ and polyfluoroalkyl substances under a variety of conditions. The advanced treatment conditions generating hydroxyl radicals or hydrated electrons accelerated the degradation, but not the defluorination, of flecainide. The combination of 19F‐NMR and mass spectrometry proved powerful in allowing identification of fluorinated products and verifying the functional groups present in the intermediates and products. The results found in the present study will aid in the understanding of which fluorinated functional groups should be incorporated into pharmaceuticals to ensure organofluorine byproducts are not formed in the environment and help determine the water‐treatment processes that effectively remove specific pharmaceuticals and more generally fluorinated motifs. Environ Toxicol Chem 2024;43:2285–2296. © 2023 The Authors. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of SETAC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is a growing threat of wastewater pollution impacting human access to clean water. The surge in pharmaceuticals and personal care products (PPCPs) in such water has reached alarming levels, posing an unprecedented threat to aquatic ecosystems and human health. Conventional wastewater treatment is not specifically tailored to address the presence of PPCPs. This paper examines the possibility of using nano-chitin and chitosan as effective and sustainable adsorbents for the removal of PPCPs from wastewater. The recent progress in functionalized nano-chitin or chitosan composites is reviewed with attention to enhanced adsorption capacity and selectivity toward different classes of PPCPs. Unique features of nano-chitin and chitosan, such as their large surface areas and biocompatibility making them a good choice for PPCP adsorption, are also discussed. Critical evaluation is given about how these nanomaterials absorb PPCPs by looking at various mechanisms like electrostatic interactions, hydrogen bonding, hydrophobic interaction, among others. Finally, future research directions provided for improving performance and scalability of such bio-based adsorbents are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lignocellulosic biomass is one of the most abundant bioresources on Earth. Over recent decades, various valorisation techniques have been developed to produce value-added products from the cellulosic and hemicellulosic fractions of this biomass. Lignin is the third major component accounting for 10–30% (w/w). However, it currently remains a largely unused fraction due to its recalcitrance and complex structure. The increase in the global demand for lignocellulosic biomass, for energy and chemical production, is increasing the amount of waste lignin available. Approaches to date for valorizing this renewable but heterogeneous chemical resource have mainly focused on production of materials and fine chemicals. Greater value could be gained by developing higher value pharmaceutical applications which would help to improve integrated biorefinery economics. In this review, different lignin extraction methods, such as organosolv and ionic liquid, and the properties and potential of the extracted chemical building blocks are first summarized with respect to pharmaceutical use. The review then discusses the many recent advances made regarding the medical or therapeutic potential of lignin-derived materials such as antimicrobial, antiviral, and antitumor compounds and in controlled drug delivery. The aim is to draw out the link between the source and the processing of the biomass and potential clinical applications. We then highlight four key areas for future research if therapeutic applications of lignin-derived products are to become commercially viable. These relate to the availability and processing of lignocellulosic biomass, technologies for the purification of specific compounds, enhancements in process yield, and progression to human clinical trials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite the benefits derived from the use of pharmaceuticals, these compounds are currently considered contaminants of emerging concern because of their presence and persistence in the environment. This study aimed to determine the toxicity of 27 pharmaceuticals and the interaction effects of binary mixtures of selected compounds towards two model organisms: the microcrustacean Daphnia magna and the bacterium Aliivibrio fischeri (Microtox test). Six compounds, namely polymyxin B, polymyxin E, fluoxetine, diphenhydramine, clenbuterol and ketoprofen exhibited moderate toxicity towards D. magna. Additionally, three compounds (cefotaxime, polymyxin B, polymyxin E) also showed a moderate toxic effect on A. fischeri. The comparison of such results with model estimations showed inaccuracy in the predicted data, highlighting the relevance of experimental ecotoxicological assays. The assayed mixtures contained four selected drugs of high-hazard according to their reported concentrations in wastewater and surface water (diphenhydramine, trimethoprim, ketoprofen, and fluoxetine); data revealed interactions only in the fluoxetine-containing mixtures for D. magna, while all mixtures showed interactions (mostly synergistic) for Microtox. Chronic effects on the reproduction of D. magna were observed after exposure to fluoxetine and diphenhydramine, although higher sensitivity was determined for the latter, while the mixture of these compounds (which showed acute synergy in both models) also affected the reproduction patterns. Nonetheless, all the effects described at the acute or chronic level (for individual compounds or mixtures) were determined at concentrations higher than commonly reported at environmental levels. This work provides valuable ecotoxicological information for the risk assessment of pharmaceuticals and their mixtures in the environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Developing robust technologies to remove emerging pollutants from water is urgent since conventional treatments are not technically prepared to remove them. This paper investigated the ibuprofen (IBU) adsorption capacity onto natural zeolite (NZ) and hydrothermally modified zeolite in an acidic medium followed by impregnation with the cationic surfactant cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) (MZHT‐CTAB). The materials characterization included scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA/DTG), N2 adsorption/desorption isotherm (BET), Zeta Potential (ZP), and Point of Zero Charge (pHPZC). The adsorptive capacity studies were carried out by varying the pH solution, a kinetic study at three concentrations (25, 50, and 100 mg L−1), and the contaminant concentration influence (5–100 mg L−1). RESULTS: The results showed that the MZHT‐CTAB obtained both the highest removal efficiency (~ 37%) and the highest adsorption capacity (~ 14 mg g−1) at pH 5.0. The Pseudo Second‐Order (PSO) model, which showed the best fit to the experimental data, is significant as it indicates the reliability of our results. The maximum adsorption capacity for the concentration of 100 mg L−1 was 11.93 mg g−1. According to Giles's classification, the isotherm was classified as S‐3 type, indicating the competition between the adsorbate and water molecules for the active sites on the adsorbent surface. CONCLUSION: The adsorption studies demonstrate that the novel adsorbent (MZHT‐CTAB) is highly effective in removing IBU, presenting a significant removal capacity and feasibility. This promising result contributes to the ongoing search for alternative materials for water treatment. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Medical substances are utilized around the world, and their accumulation in nature is a global concern. This work aimed to identify three priority pharmaceuticals discharged into the domestic sewage stream of Astana city (Kazakhstan). Samples of municipal wastewater were taken before and after the wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) over a period of 13 months. The performed experiments demonstrated that there are seasonal variations in the priority pharmaceuticals – carbamazepine (CBZ), sulfamethoxazole (SMX) and aspirin (ASP) – identified in the wastewaters. RESULTS: The non‐conventional WWTP of Astana city, which includes a sequence of treatment processes, showed 2–100% removal of these compounds with the following influent concentrations from the entering stream: 12.5–185.6 ppb (μg L−1) for CBZ, 2.6–51.2 ppb for SMX and 1.9–199.8 ppb for ASP. Laboratory‐scale experiments revealed that the application of the membrane separation technique, i.e. ultrafiltration, is able to provide improved removal of these pharmaceuticals. The removal of ASP, CBZ and SMX by phase inversion polyethersulfone and track etch (TE) polycarbonate membranes was investigated. Filtration with TE membrane demonstrated 39–97% removal of the primary pharmaceuticals from the wastewater. CONCLUSION: Filtration with TE membrane was recognized as an affordable and efficient supplementary treatment step. The addition of the TE separation process in the Astana WWTP could potentially improve the removal of the studied pharmaceuticals along with other medical substances. The reported results hold substantial significance, particularly for rapidly expanding urban centers and developing nations. This is especially crucial as there is a scarcity of data regarding the treatment of pharmaceuticals in municipal wastewater for these regions. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanotechnology revealed its unlimited success in many real-life applications. That’s why the incorporation of nanomaterials became vital for solving a lot of current problems. Metal Organic-frameworks (MOFs) are nanomaterials with outstanding advantages such as crystallinity, high surface area, various structures, and adsorption capacity. Furthermore, metal-Organic Frameworks have emerged as versatile and promising materials for various environmental applications, including wastewater treatment. These materials are stable in water which acquire them convenient properties for wastewater treatment applications, for instance adsorption, catalysis, separation and so on. Moreover, MOFs are characterized by their high surface area, tunable pore size, and exceptional adsorption capacity, have shown remarkable potential for the removal of contaminants in wastewater treatment systems. In this review, the variable roles of MOFs in wastewater treatment applications have been discussed and highlighted as well. Herein, we are additionally reviewing the state-of-the-art research trends on the applications of metal-organic framework materials in the removal of pollutants in wastewater treatmen t systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spine procedures are commonly performed to diagnose and treat various spinal conditions, ranging from degenerative disc disease to vertebral fractures. These procedures often involve the use of pharmaceutical agents to enhance the efficacy of the intervention and improve patient outcomes. This review provides an overview of the pharmaceuticals commonly utilized in spine procedures, including corticosteroids, anesthetics, antibiotics, radiographic contrast, neurolytic agents, and materials used in kyphoplasty and vertebroplasty. This review summarizes the utilization of these pharmaceutical agents in spine procedures in an effort to optimize patient outcomes. Understanding the pharmacological properties and appropriate uses of these pharmaceuticals is essential for interventionalist and healthcare providers involved in the care of patients undergoing spinal interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The technological revolutions in computers and the advancement of high‐throughput screening technologies have driven the application of artificial intelligence (AI) for faster discovery of drug molecules with more efficiency, and cost‐friendly finding of hit or lead molecules. The ability of software and network frameworks to interpret molecular structures' representations and establish relationships/correlations has enabled various research teams to develop numerous AI platforms for identifying new lead molecules or discovering new targets for already established drug molecules. The prediction of biological activity, ADME properties, and toxicity parameters in early stages have reduced the chances of failure and associated costs in later clinical stages, which was observed at a high rate in the tedious, expensive, and laborious drug discovery process. This review focuses on the different AI and machine learning (ML) techniques with their applications mainly focused on the pharmaceutical industry. The applications of AI frameworks in the identification of molecular target, hit identification/hit‐to‐lead optimization, analyzing drug–receptor interactions, drug repurposing, polypharmacology, synthetic accessibility, clinical trial design, and pharmaceutical developments are discussed in detail. We have also compiled the details of various startups in AI in this field. This review will provide a comprehensive analysis and outline various state‐of‐the‐art AI/ML techniques to the readers with their framework applications. This review also highlights the challenges in this field, which need to be addressed for further success in pharmaceutical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigated the occurrence and the environmental risk of eight contaminants of emerging concern (CECs; acetaminophen, naproxen, diclofenac, methylparaben, 17β‐estradiol, sulfathiazole, sulfadimethoxine, and sulfamethazine) in three Brazilian water bodies, namely, the Monjolinho River Basin (São Paulo State), the Mogi Guaçu River (São Paulo State), and the Itapecuru River (Maranhão State) in three sampling campaigns. The CECs were only quantified in surface water samples collected at the Monjolinho River Basin. Acetaminophen, naproxen, and methylparaben were detected in the range of <200 to 575.9 ng L−1, <200 to 224.7 ng L−1, and <200 to 303.6 ng L−1, respectively. The detection frequencies of the three measured compounds were between 33% and 67%. The highest concentrations of CECs were associated with intense urbanization and untreated sewage discharge. Furthermore, CEC concentrations were significantly correlated with total organic carbon, electrical conductivity, and dissolved oxygen levels, suggesting that domestic pollution from urban areas is an important source in the distribution of CECs in the Monjolinho River Basin. The environmental risk assessment indicated a high risk for acetaminophen (risk quotient [RQ] values between 2.1 and 5.8), a medium risk for naproxen (RQs between 0.6 and 0.7), and a low risk for methylparaben (RQs < 0.1) to the freshwater biota of the Monjolinho River Basin. Our findings show potential threats of CECs in Brazilian water bodies, especially in vulnerable areas, and reinforce the need for improvements in environmental regulations to include monitoring and control of these compounds in aquatic systems. Environ Toxicol Chem 2024;43:2199–2210. © 2024 SETAC [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Partitioning of CBZ and SD was determined in landfill refuse-leachate phase. • K d values were concerned with organic matter and specific surface area of refuse. • K d values were related to leachate properties (pH and humic acid content). • Different sorption mechanisms of CBZ and SD in refuse-leachate phase were proposed. Pharmaceuticals have been detected at high concentrations in landfill leachate and refuse, which may pose potential long-term environmental impacts. The interaction of pharmaceuticals between leachate and refuse contributes to their retention through in situ sorption, thereby mitigating this impact. However, limited efforts have been made to describe the distribution characteristics of pharmaceuticals in the refuse-leachate phase. In this study, two refuse and three leachate samples were used to obtain partitioning coefficients (K d) for two typical pharmaceuticals, carbamazepine (CBZ) and sulfadiazine (SD), with campus soil as a comparison. Landfill refuse exhibited higher K d values (12.36 ± 0.90 and 19.76 ± 1.96 mL/g for CBZ and 1.90 ± 0.34 and 6.27 ± 0.58 mL/g for SD in two samples, respectively) than campus soil (3.73 ± 1.31 mL/g for CBZ and 0.81 ± 0.26 mL/g for SD), influenced by refuse properties such as higher organic matter (OM) content and specific surface area (SSA). The influence of leachate pH on K d values depended on the electrostatic interaction between the species of target pollutants and negatively charged refuse. The effect of humic acid (HA) was related to its binding with target pollutants in solution and its competition with them for sorption sites. Electrostatic repulsion, hydrogen bonding and π-π interaction were the proposed mechanisms in SD sorption on refuse, while hydrogen bonding participated in the sorption of CBZ. The results will help aid the understanding of the distribution of pharmaceuticals in the refuse-leachate system and improve corresponding management strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The application of biosolids, manure, and slurry onto agricultural soils and the growing use of treated wastewater in agriculture result in the introduction of human and veterinary pharmaceuticals to the environment. Once in the soil environment, pharmaceuticals may be taken up by crops, resulting in consequent human exposure to pharmaceutical residues. The potential side effects of pharmaceuticals administered in human medicine are widely documented; however, far less is known regarding the risks that arise from incidental dietary exposure. The aim of this study was to evaluate human exposure to pharmaceutical residues in crops and assess the associated risk to health for a range of pharmaceuticals frequently detected in soils. Estimated concentrations of carbamazepine, oxytetracycline, sulfamethoxazole, trimethoprim, and tetracycline in soil were used in conjunction with plant uptake and crop consumption data to estimate daily exposures to each compound. Exposure concentrations were compared to Acceptable Daily Intakes (ADIs) to determine the level of risk. Generally, exposure concentrations were lower than ADIs. The exceptions were carbamazepine, and trimethoprim and sulfamethoxazole under conservative, worst-case scenarios, where a potential risk to human health was predicted. Future research therefore needs to prioritize investigation into the health effects following exposure to these compounds from consumption of contaminated crops. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For the first time, two direct and eco-friendly chromatographic approaches were adapted for the simultaneous estimation of pheniramine maleate (PAM) and its major toxic impurity, 2-benzyl pyridine (BNZ). Method A used reversed-phase ultra-performance liquid chromatography; separation was achieved within 4 min using a C18 column with a developing system of methanol/water (60:40 v/v) with a 0.1 mL/min flow rate. Photodiode array detection was adjusted at 215 nm. The method was linear in the ranges of 5.0–70.0 and 0.05–10.0 µg/mL for PAM and BNZ, correspondingly. Method B used thin-layer chromatography; separation was applied on silica gel TLC F254 using ethanol/ethyl acetate/liquid ammonia (8:2:0.1, in volumes) at room temperature, at 265 nm. Linearity was assured at concentration ranges 0.5–8.0 and 0.1–3.0 µg/band for the two components, respectively. Generally, the new UPLC and TLC methods outperform the old ones in terms of quickness, greenness, and sensitivity. Concisely, the greenness features were partially achieved using the Green Analytical Procedure Index (GAPI) and the Analytical Greenness (AGREE) pictograms. In contrast, the usefulness of the novel approaches was assured via the Blue Applicability Grade Index (BAGI) tool. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cardiovascular drugs have been a burning topic in the field of environmental analytical chemistry in the last few decades. Growing modern healthcare has led to the widespread use of pharmaceuticals. Among these, antihypertensives (sartans, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors) and lipid-regulating drugs (fibrates and statins) are the most frequently consumed and, thus, excreted into wastewater. Their chemical fate during conventional and advanced wastewater treatment, such as ozonation, remains unclear. Analytical chemistry, providing sample pretreatment followed by instrumental analysis, has a tremendous role in water treatment evaluation, mostly from the perspective of parent contaminants' removals and also assessment of transformation pathways. Ultrasensitive liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC-MS) systems provide many opportunities. By carefully using planned workflows for chromatographic and mass-spectrometric data processing, i.e., suspect and non-target screening approaches, LC-MS allows for the identification and structural elucidation of unknown, predicted, suspected or selected transformation products. Accordingly, some examples and case studies on selected cardiovascular drugs in this review are presented to show the applicability of the used analytical approaches and workflows. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of efficient adsorbents for sustainable adsorption processes is required in environmental studies. Here, we propose using carbonized Ailanthus altissima leaves as a novel adsorbent, derived from invasive species that threaten biodiversity. Biochar was prepared by pyrolysis at 500 °C, activated with ZnCl2 and tested for the target adsorbates—active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). A range of characterization techniques were employed—FTIR, SEM, XPS and Raman spectroscopy—and the adsorption of representative APIs was analyzed. The adsorption kinetics revealed that the adsorbent reached equilibrium within a 3 h period. The adsorption capacities for the selected model substances ranged from 59 mg g−1 for atenolol to 112 mg g−1 for paracetamol, while the highest values were recorded for ketorolac and tetracycline at over 130 mg g−1. The excellent retention is ascribed to the developed surface area, the availability of oxygen surface functional groups and the aromatization of the biochar. The proposed biochar, which is obtained in a sustainable process, proves to be a highly efficient adsorbent for selected pharmaceuticals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The transition from lab-scale studies to pilot-scale applications is a critical step in advancing water remediation technologies. While laboratory experiments provide valuable insights into the underlying mechanisms and method effectiveness, pilot-scale studies are essential for evaluating their practical feasibility and scalability. This progression addresses challenges related to operational conditions, effectiveness and energy requirements in real-world scenarios. In this study, the potential of nanopulsed plasma bubbles, when scaled up from a lab environment, was explored by investigating critical experimental parameters, such as plasma gas, pulse voltage, and pulse repetition rate, while also analyzing plasma-treated water composition. To validate the broad effectiveness of this method, various classes of highly toxic organic pollutants were examined in terms of pollutant degradation efficiency and energy requirements. The pilot-scale plasma bubble reactor generated a high concentration of short-lived reactive species with minimal production of long-lived species. Additionally, successful degradation of all pollutants was achieved in both lab- and pilot-scale setups, with even lower electrical energy-per-order (EEO) values at the pilot scale, 2–3 orders of magnitude lower compared to other advanced oxidation processes. This study aimed to bridge the gap between lab-scale plasma bubbles and upscaled systems, supporting the rapid, effective, and energy-efficient destruction of organic pollutants in water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Hospital wastewater (HWW) charges wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) with a mixture of contaminants such as pharmaceutically active compounds (PhACs) and pathogenic bacteria. This matrix is considered highly toxic to the ecosystem and organisms, and it may induce the development of antibiotic resistant bacteria (ARB) and the transfer of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) within microbial communities. Conventional WWTPs cannot treat HWW effectively, because they have not been designed to confront this challenge. Therefore, this study investigated the applicability of photocatalysis to purify HWW, regarding its ecotoxicity and the removal rates of targeted substances, selected pathogenic bacteria and specific ARGs. RESULTS: The HWW samples showed high toxicity towards the bioindicator Daphnia magna population, while they also contained significant levels of ARB and ARGs. Upon application of the photocatalytic treatment, the pharmaceutical concentrations decreased at a rate of >80% and the removal rates of the examined bacteria (Escherichia coli, Enterococci, Klebsiella sp. and Staphylococcus sp.) were >80%. Importantly, the bacteria remaining after photocatalysis were sensitive to the tested antibiotics. Conversely, the examined ARGs were present in high concentrations before and after photocatalytic treatment. For example, the concentrations of the selected genes, namely ampC, sul2, tetA and qnrA, in the effluents were from 104 to 106 gene copies L−1. CONCLUSIONS: Photocatalysis may be a promising treatment technique for the elimination of PhACs and pathogenic bacteria from HWW. Moreover, it proved capable of altering the antibiotic resistance profile of the bacteria surviving after treatment, making them sensitive to certain antibiotic compounds. However, the main concern regarding public health protection remains, as the presence of ARGs in effluents in considerable concentrations may induce antibiotic resistance in bacterial communities of aquatic environments. © 2023 The Authors. Journal of Chemical Technology and Biotechnology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry (SCI). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While the potential of Asteraceae plants as herbal remedies has been globally recognized, their widespread application in the food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical industries requires a deeper understanding of how extraction methods influence bioactive compound yields and functionalities. Previous research has primarily focused on the physiological activities or chemical compositions of individual Asteraceae species, often overlooking the critical role of solvent selection in optimizing extraction. Additionally, the remarkable physiological activities observed in these plants have spurred a growing number of clinical trials, aiming to validate their efficacy and safety for potential therapeutic and commercial applications. This work aims to bridge these knowledge gaps by providing an integrated analysis of extraction techniques, the diverse range of bioactive compounds present in Asteraceae, and the influence of solvent choice on isolating these valuable substances. By elucidating the interplay between extraction methods, solvent properties, and bioactivity, we underscore the promising potential of Asteraceae plants and highlight the importance of continued research, including clinical trials, to fully unlock their potential in the food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical sectors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The growing prevalence of pharmaceutical compounds in the environment raises significant concerns due to their potential impacts on ecological and human health. This present manuscript focuses on the methods used to extract and determine these pharmaceuticals in water samples. It provides a comprehensive analysis of the extraction techniques and analytical approaches employed for the identification and quantification of pharmaceuticals in environmental water. Due to their chemical properties and widespread use, pharmaceuticals persist in the environment and contaminate water bodies, soil, and sediments. The presence of pharmaceuticals in the aquatic environment has been linked to several adverse effects on aquatic organisms, including the disruption of physiological processes and reproductive impairment. Furthermore, pharmaceuticals in the environment can affect human health through food and drinking water contamination and contribute to antibiotic resistance. The analysis of pharmaceutical contaminants in water samples presents several challenges due to the complex matrix and low concentrations of target substances. Various sample preparation techniques and protocols, including solid-phase extraction (more than 76% of the studied literature) and QuEChERS (quick, easy, cheap, effective, rugged, and safe), coupled with liquid chromatography–tandem-mass spectrometry, are commonly used for their determination. These methods offer high sensitivity, selectivity, and efficiency in identifying and quantifying pharmaceuticals in environmental samples. It is, therefore, essential that ongoing research is conducted in order to develop more efficient analytical methods and mitigation strategies to address pharmaceutical contamination in the environmental water effectively. It is also crucial that increased awareness and regulatory measures are put in place in order to minimize the environmental and human health risks associated with pharmaceutical pollutants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This document discusses a new database that contains 520 studies on the carcinogenicity data of 238 pharmaceuticals across 14 ATC classifications. The database includes non-clinical animal studies and human information for approved drugs, and can be used for correlation and concordance analyses. It provides insights into the tumorigenic potential of structural analogues and includes information on species, strain sensitivities, and affected organs/tissues. The authors emphasize the importance of repeat-dose toxicity studies in identifying potential concerns regarding tumorigenic potential. The database also includes information on the incidence and severity of effects observed in these studies, such as hyperplasia and neoplastic changes, which are relevant in assessing the carcinogenicity of pharmaceuticals. [Extracted from the article]

Background: We propose a framework to assess the value of pharmaceutical innovations, with explicit clinical and methodological parameters, based on the therapeutic value and health needs. Research design and methods: The study was based on the adaptation of health technology assessment methods documented in the literature, which was applied to a sample of oncological drugs. Difficulties and issues during the application of those tools were identified and addressed to develop a new framework with new and revised domains and clear classification criterion for each domain. Scores were assigned to each level and domain according to their relevance to generate the final score of innovativeness. Results: The Pharmaceutical Innovation Index (PII) includes four domains, two related to clinical and social dimensions – Therapeutic Need and Added Therapeutic Value – and other two about methodological features – Study Design and Quality (risk of bias). The scores combined after assigned to each domain results Index of the Innovativeness of the medicines represents the degree of pharmaceutical innovation. Conclusion: This work proposes a transparent methodology with well-defined criteria and script; the algorithm developed with authors' weightings and criteria may be switched to best adjust to other applications, perspective or clinical indications, while keeping the transparency and objectiveness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Water treatment plays a crucial role in meeting the growing demand for water and preventing future shortages. The unique and adaptable arbitrary, physical, and chemical properties of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) make them an attractive candidate for use in water treatment. CNTs are employed in environmental applications because of their exceptional adsorbent, mechanical, and chemical characteristics. Functional groups chemically or physically modify pure CNTs, improving their desalination and extraction capabilities. The advantages of CNT-based composites, such as antifouling performance, excellent selectivity, and higher water permeability, reassure us of their effectiveness in water treatment. This review comprehensively discusses the structural features and synthetic methods of CNTs. The functionalization and the pros and cons of functionalized CNT materials are also discussed. Pharmaceutical compounds are often manufactured using batch processes, resulting in the production of various products in wastewater. The occurrence of pharmaceutical compounds in drinking water arises from two distinct origins: the pharmaceutical industry’s manufacturing procedures and the widespread use of pharmaceutical compounds, which leads to their presence in urban and agricultural wastewater. This review discusses role of CNT-based nanomaterials in effectively removing pharmaceutical waste from wastewater through adsorption and photocatalytic processes. Lastly, the future approach is discussed to develop CNT-based nanomaterials better. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The presence of pharmaceuticals in water bodies has been reported to be mainly due to their incomplete removal by the conventional wastewater treatment processes, resulting to their release into the aquatic environment where they thratens to human health and aquatic life. Therefore, it is important to remove these pollutants from the aquatic environment using affordable highly efficient materials. The goal of this study was to incorporate silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) into MIPs for selective removal of sulfamethoxazole, nevirapine, and ibuprofen in wastewater. The AgNPs were synthesized using starch (St) and macadamia (MCD) as both reducing and stabilizing agents. Thermogravimetric analysis showed high stability for the St/MCD‐nanoMIPs. The ANOVA analysis revealed that the parameters affecting adsorption of St/MCD‐nanoMIPs have a significant difference (p<0.05). The St/MCD‐AgNPs experimental data fitted to both Langmuir and Freundlich adsorption isotherms, however, the non‐linear Langmuir isotherm model yielded a better fit based on the higher R2 value (0.999). The non‐linear Freundlich model best fitted for the St/MCD‐nanoMIPs. The linear pseudo‐second order model shown best fit for St/MCD‐nanoMIPs, the thermodynamic results revealed that the adsorption process was spontaneous and endothermic. The St/MCD‐nanoMIPs showed improved qualities and were highly selective (>70 %) and effective in removing the selected pharmaceuticals from wastewater. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Drug overuse harms the biosphere, leading to disturbances in ecosystems' functioning. Consequently, more and more actions are being taken to minimise the harmful impact of xenopharmaceuticals on the environment. One of the innovative solutions is using biosorbents—natural materials such as cells or biopolymers—to remove environmental pollutants; however, this focuses mainly on the removal of metal ions and colourants. Therefore, this study investigated the biosorption ability of selected pharmaceuticals—paracetamol, diclofenac, and ibuprofen—by the biomass of the cyanobacteria Anabaena sp. and Chroococcidiopsis thermalis, using the LC-MS/MS technique. The viability of the cyanobacteria was assessed by determining photosynthetic pigments in cells using a UV–VIS spectrophotometer. The results indicate that both tested species can be effective biosorbents for paracetamol and diclofenac. At the same time, the tested compounds did not have a toxic effect on the tested cyanobacterial species and, in some cases, stimulated their cell growth. Furthermore, the Anabaena sp. can effectively biotransform DCF into its dimer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Centella asiatica, a traditional herb, is widely recognized for its pharmacologically active components, such as asiaticoside, madecassoside, asiatic acid, and madecassic acid. These components render it a highly sought-after ingredient in various industries, including cosmetics and pharmaceuticals. This study aimed to enhance the production and activity of these pharmacological constituents of C. asiatica using the plant growth-promoting rhizobacterium Priestia megaterium HyangYak-01 during its cultivation. To achieve this goal, the researchers conducted field experiments, which revealed an increase in the production of pharmacologically active compounds in C. asiatica cultivated with a P. megaterium HyangYak-01 culture solution. Additionally, quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (Q-TOF MS) confirmed that the composition ratios of the C. asiatica extract treated with the P. megaterium HyangYak-01 culture solution differed from those of the untreated control and type strain-treated groups. Skin cell experiments indicated that the C. asiatica extract treated with the P. megaterium HyangYak-01 culture solution exhibited greater skin barrier improvement and less pronounced inflammatory responses than those from plants grown without the bacterial culture solution. This study demonstrates that microbial treatment during plant cultivation can beneficially influence the production of pharmacological constituents, suggesting a valuable approach toward enhancing the therapeutic properties of plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pharmaceutically active compounds (PACs) are ubiquitous contaminants that can pollute the environment. This study critically analyzes the sorption of PACs to soil materials based on 137 published papers encompassing 106 PACs and 212 soil materials. The batch technique is commonly employed for sorption studies of PACs to soil, but the experimental setups vary in terms of the type and number of PACs, mixing time, solid to liquid (S/L) ratio, solution type, range of initial concentration, and bio-inhibition method. Sorption competition among PACs or between PACs and dissolved organic matter occurs for certain cases. Linear or close to linear behavior was reported for sorption of many PACs to soil, but sorption of some PACs deviates from linearity. The reaction of PACs to soil is fast at the initial stages but slows down as it approaches equilibrium. PACs characteristics, soil properties, and solution attributes intricately influence the sorption process. Zwitterionic PACs exhibit the highest sorption affinity, whereas neutral PACs display increased sensitivity to soil hydrophobicity. The average sorption coefficient (K) ranges from 0.0915 mL/g for anionic sulfonamides to 84725.5 mL/g for zwitterionic norfloxacin. An increase in the molar volume corresponds to heightened sorption for cationic PACs and reduced sorption for anionic PACs. Increasing solubility, soil organic carbon, cation exchange capacity, S/L ratio, and soil surface area while decreasing pH, ionic strength, and temperature result in an increase in K. The values of K determined by the batch technique are higher than their column-determined counterparts, possibly due to variations in the employed residence times between the two systems. Several models have been developed to estimate K of PACs, but they are limited in their applicability to specific PACs and soil types. Future research related to sorption of PACs to soils has been suggested. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Isotopically labeled alkanes play a crucial role in organic and pharmaceutical chemistry. While some deuterated methylating agents are readily available, the limited accessibility of other deuteroalkyl reagents has hindered the synthesis of corresponding products. In this study, we introduce a nickel‐catalyzed system that facilitates the synthesis of various deuterium‐labeled alkanes through the hydrodeuteroalkylation of d2‐labeled alkyl TT salts with unactivated alkenes. Diverging from traditional deuterated alkyl reagents, alkyl thianthrenium (TT) salts can effectively and selectively introduce deuterium at α position of alkyl chains using D2O as the deuterium source via a single‐step pH‐dependent hydrogen isotope exchange (HIE). Our method allows for high deuterium incorporation, and offers precise control over the site of deuterium insertion within an alkyl chain. This technique proves to be invaluable for the synthesis of various deuterium‐labeled compounds, especially those of pharmaceutical relevance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A sensitive, precise, accurate, and green analytical HPLC–ESI–MS method for the quantification of delafloxacin and its degradation products in pharmaceutical dosage forms has been optimized and validated. The best separation was achieved with isocratic elution, the mobile phase is composed of a mixture of 0.1% trifluoroacetic acid in water and acetonitrile 65:35 (v/v), the flow rate is 0.5 mL min−1, and the column used is Kinetex Core‐Shell C18 (250 × 4.6 mm, 5 µm). Forced degradation studies were performed to prove that the method indicates stability. The pharmaceutical substance is prone to oxidative (H2O2 3%), acidic (HCl 0.1 M), and basic (0.1 M) conditions. Delafloxacin proved to be susceptible to acidic (HCl 0.1 M), basic (0.1 M), and oxidative (H2O2 3%) conditions. The proposition of the structures of degradation products has been based on the MS spectrum and the known reactivity of delafloxacin in the oxidative medium. The validation of the analytical method was carried out following the International Conference on Harmonization guidelines. The method was validated in terms of specificity, precision, linearity, and accuracy. The limits of detection and quantification of delafloxacin are, respectively, 0.005 and 0.017 µg mL−1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of reclaimed wastewater for irrigation could result in the release of pharmaceutically active compounds (PhACs) and their metabolites into the agroecosystem. In this study, we investigated the fate of carbamazepine (CBZ) and its metabolites, with the aim of clarifying their behavior in a soil–plant system in a greenhouse experiment. The research was carried out using irrigation water especially fortified with high doses of CBZ (200 or 600 ppb) in order to evaluate the dynamics of CBZ and its metabolites in the soil and basil organs. The results of the study showed that CBZ is easily absorbed by the aerial part of the basil plant. The soil contained two metabolites of CBZ, namely acridine and carbamazepine-10,11-epoxide, as revealed by high-resolution mass spectrometry analyses. In addition, acridine was found in the aerial parts of basil plants. Furthermore, the greater presence of CBZ and its metabolites in bulk soil indicated a positive role of the basil rhizosphere in the degradation of such compounds or a positive role of the plant in the removal of the contaminant by uptake. Considering the observed morphological parameters and the mean CBZ content in wastewater, significantly lower than that used in the experiment, basil can be considered resistant to the application of irrigation water contaminated with CBZ. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, pollution stemming from pharmaceuticals has garnered widespread global concern, which exacerbates the ecological risk to both surface and groundwater. In the current study, Fe and O co-embedded biochar (Fe-O-BC) was synthesized through a one-step pyrolysis procedure with corncob serving as the feedstock. The fabricated Fe-O-BC catalysts were characterized by various techniques and were employed for the activation of peroxymonosulfate (PMS) to degrade tetracycline (TC). TC was rapidly degraded within 40 min, with a degradation rate of 0.1225 min−1, which was much higher than those for O-BC/PMS (0.0228 min−1) and Fe-BC/PMS (0.0271 min−1) under the same conditions. The effects of PMS dosage, Fe-O-BC dose, initial pH value and coexisting anions for TC degradation were investigated. Finally, the mechanism of TC oxidation in the catalytic system was implored through experiments of determining the active sites and radical scavenging experiments. The C-O-Fe bond in the catalyst was confirmed to be the dominant active sites accelerating TC degradation. Free diffused HO•, the surface-bound HO• and SO4•− and O2•−participated in the reaction and absorbed SO4•−, and HO• predominantly contributed to TC degradation. This study provides an efficient and green alternative for pharmaceutical wastewater treatment by Fe and O co-doped catalyst-induced heterogeneous process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pharmaceuticals in the environment are a global concern, with studies in all continents highlighting their widespread occurrence and potential ecological impacts, revealing their presence, fate, and associated risks in aquatic ecosystems. Despite typically occurring at low concentrations (ranging from ng/L to µg/L), advancements in analytical methods and more sensitive equipment have enabled the detection of a higher number of pharmaceuticals. In this study, surface and wastewater samples were extracted using solid phase extraction and analyzed using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry. Among the therapeutic classes investigated, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs/analgesics, antibiotics, and psychiatric drugs showed a higher number of detected pharmaceuticals. Concentrations ranged from below method detection limit (

Micropollutants are increasingly prevalent in the aquatic environment. A major part of these originates from wastewater treatment plants since traditional treatment technologies do not remove micropollutants sufficiently. Moving bed biofilm reactors (MBBRs), however, have been shown to aid in micropollutant removal when applied to conventional wastewater treatment as a polishing step. Here, we used Total RNA sequencing to investigate both the active microbial community and functional dynamics of MBBR biofilms when these were exposed to increasing micropollutant concentrations over time. Concurrently, we conducted batch culture experiments using biofilm carriers from the MBBRs to assess micropollutant degradation potential. Our study showed that biofilm eukaryotes, in particular protozoa, were negatively influenced by micropollutant exposure, in contrast to prokaryotes that increased in relative abundance. Further, we found several functional genes that were differentially expressed between the MBBR with added micropollutants and the control. These include genes involved in aromatic and xenobiotic compound degradation. Moreover, the biofilm carrier batch experiment showed vastly different alterations in benzotriazole and diclofenac degradation following the increased micropollutant concentrations in the MBBR. Ultimately, this study provides essential insights into the microbial community and functional dynamics of MBBRs and how an increased load of micropollutants influences these dynamics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A sequential injection analysis method for the determination of glutathione (GSH) in pharmaceuticals has been developed. It is based on the reduction of the Cu(II)-neocuproine complex by GSH and the formation of an orange-yellow colored Cu(I)-neocuproine complex with maximum absorbance at 458 nm. Under optimal conditions the method is characterized by a linear calibration range of 6.0 × 10−7–8.0 × 10−5 mol L−1 (Amax = 3270 CGSH − 0.0010; R2 = 0.9983), limit of detection of 2.0 × 10−7 mol L−1, limit of quantification of 6.7 × 10−7 mol L−1, repeatability (expressed as relative standard deviation) of 3.8%, and sampling rate of 60 h−1. The newly developed method has been successfully applied to the determination of GSH in pharmaceutical samples with no statistically significant difference between the results obtained and those produced by the standard Pharmacopoeia method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Detecting the toxic effects of chemicals on reproduction and development without using mammalian animal models is crucial in the exploitation of pharmaceuticals for human use. Zebrafish are a promising animal model for investigating pharmacological effects and toxicity during vertebrate development. Several studies have suggested the use of zebrafish embryos for the assessment of malformations or embryo-fetal lethality (MEFL). However, a reproducible protocol as a standard for the zebrafish MEFL test method that fulfills global requests has not been established based on the International Council of Harmonisation (ICH) S5 (R3) guidelines. To establish such a toxicity test method, we developed a new and easy protocol to detect MEFL caused by chemicals, especially those with teratogenic potential, using fertilized zebrafish eggs (embryos) within 5 days of development. Our toxicity test trials using the same protocol in two to four different laboratories corroborated the high inter-laboratory reproducibility. Our test method enabled the detection of 18 out of 22 test compounds that induced rat MEFL. Thus, the prediction rate of our zebrafish test method for MEFL was almost 82% compared with that of rat MEFL. Collectively, our study proposes the establishment of an easy and reproducible protocol for the zebrafish MEFL test method for reproductive and developmental toxicity that meets ICH guideline S5 (R3), which can be further considered in combination with information from other sources for regulatory use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, the massive use of pharmaceuticals has led to the detection of a large number of relevant residues in water. As emerging contaminants, pharmaceuticals residues in the environment pose a major threat to human health and ecosystems. Covalent organic polymers (COPs) possess high stability, uniform pore size, and easy functionalization, which have attracted great attention in water treatment. In this study, a novel covalent organic polymer was successfully studied by a simple synthesis method, combining p-phenylenediamine (Pd) and isophthalaldehyde (Is) via a Schiff-base (referred to PdIs-COP), which was used as an absorbent for the removal of indomethacin from aqueous solutions. The composite was characterized with scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) specific surface area and thermogravimetric (TGA) analysis. The effect of changes in the pH values and the adsorption time on the adsorption capacity was also investigated. The results of this study indicated that the absorbent had a high adsorption capacity for indomethacin. The adsorption capacity of PdIs-COP for indomethacin is 92.86 mg g−1 at pH of five and a contact time of 2 min. This shows that PdIs-COP is a novel material with good affinity for pharmaceuticals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Currently, blockchain-based solutions for drug traceability encounter challenges related to counterfeit drug prevention, user identity verification, and scalability. This paper presents BE-AC, an enhanced blockchain-based drug traceability solution. To bolster the authenticity and integrity of drug information, we innovatively upgraded the EdDSA (Edwards-curve Digital Signature Algorithm) digital signature algorithm. Our enhancement incorporates the more advanced and efficient BLAKE3 hash function, replacing the conventional SHA-512 (Secure Hash Algorithm 512-bit). By employing larger hash windows and secure, efficient hash iteration modes, we expedite the generation and verification of digital signatures for drug information, thereby enhancing the overall performance and security of the system. Additionally, we have devised a decentralized identity authentication scheme. Through on-chain stored identity information, all participants can mutually verify each other's identities, effectively preventing identity impersonation and fraudulent transactions. Furthermore, we have implemented smart contracts to record and store all transaction information on-chain during the drug distribution process, ensuring reliable and convenient drug transaction traceability. To address scalability and information security, we introduced a collaborative on-chain and off-chain drug information storage solution. Experimental results demonstrate a remarkable 78.65% improvement in signature verification efficiency compared to the original algorithm. The designed solution exhibits noteworthy enhancements in identity authentication, system throughput, and storage efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A sensitive, accurate, and affordable colorimetric method was developed for assaying prednisolone (PRZ) in various medicinal forms. The procedure involves the oxidation of PRZ by ferric ions, followed by complexation of the resulting ferrous ions with ferricyanide to produce a greenish-blue product. Common complexation conditions were thoroughly investigated. The mole ratio of FeCl3·6H2O to K3Fe(CN)6 was 8:1. The proposed mechanism of complexation was suggested and considered. Various parameters were optimized, including the reduction of the colorimetric reaction temperature to 50°C and the duration of heating and analysis to 20-30 minutes. The calibration curve was linear over the range of 1-60 µg/mL. The limit of detection (LOD) and the limit of quantification (LOQ) were 0.5 µg/mL and 1 µg/mL, respectively. Spiking actual samples with standard PRZ showed recoveries within the 97.3-100.1% range. The method exhibited high precision, with an RSD% of less than 1.5%. Additionally, the study confirmed that common pharmaceutical excipients did not interfere. Real medicinal samples, including tablets, syrup, eye drops, and creams, were successfully examined for direct analysis of PRZ using the developed methodology, demonstrating its suitability for routine analysis of various PRZ-containing drug formulations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Concerns related to environmental risks associated with pharmaceuticals and personal care products (PPCPs) have led researchers to seek methods for assessing and monitoring these contaminants in the aquatic environment. Identifying and validating risk assessment tools that can evaluate ecological concerns and risks associated with PPCPs is critical. Herein, the suitability of a dose-related risk and effect assessment model, which estimates predicted environmental concentrations and allowed comparisons with predicted no effect concentrations determined, in combination with in vitro analyses of the whole effluent toxicity, was verified for the characterization of a PPCP hazard. Concentrations of the most utilized PPCPs in Norway were measured in influent and effluent samples and used to parameterize the fate model. Greater than 90% removal was attained for 12 out of 22 detected PPCPs. Removal was not dependent on the class or the concentration of the specific substance and varied between 12% and 100%. The PPCPs detected in the discharged wastewater were utilized to assess individual contributions to the risk of the effluent, and no risk was identified for the targeted 30 PPCP. The simulations provided valuable information regarding the discharge plume distribution over time, which can aid planning of future environmental monitoring investigations. Bioassays (using fish liver cells, PLHC-1) were used for assessing overall effluent toxicity, through cell viability, production of reactive oxygen species, and ethoxyresorufin-O-deethylase (EROD) activities. The present study may allow regulators to use risk-based strategies over removal criteria for monitoring studies and confirms the importance to take PPCP contamination into consideration when establishing environmental regulations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main goal of this study is the examination of polypropylene (PP) microplastics (MPs) as possible carriers of daily use pharmaceutical compounds. The selected compounds can be separated into three groups: (i) antibiotics (Trimethoprim, Metronidazole, Indomethacin, Isoniazid), (ii) anti-inflammatories (Ketoprofen, Diclofenac), and (iii) anti-hypertensive (Valsartan). Two types of PP MPs (virgin and UV-aged) were used in the experimental procedure, and the effect of time and the effect of the initial concentrations of the drugs were examined. The impact of various environmental factors such as pH, salinity, and natural organic matter were also explored. The last two factors were studied using real aqueous matrices such as wastewater and seawater. According to the obtained results, the highest uptake was observed in indomethacin (9.3 mg/g) and diclofenac (7.3 mg/g), owing to their physiochemical properties. Aged particles showed enhanced adsorption ability in accordance with the existing literature, as their adsorption capacity was between 0.5–1.5 times greater than that of the virgin ones. Regarding the desorption of compounds from the virgin and aged PP MPs at three different pH values, diclofenac and indomethacin exhibited the highest desorption capacity, while alkaline conditions favored the desorption ability of PP MPs for most of the target compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, the presence of Pharmaceutical Active Compounds (PhACs) in ecosystems has become a serious environmental problem due to their capacity to induce harmful effects at extremely low concentrations in both humans and wildlife. Water treatment plants have not been designed to remove these types of compounds efficiently. Thus, the detection of these pollutants is essential to evaluate their negative impacts and is one of the emerging issues in environmental chemistry. The main objective of this study is to determine the bacterial toxicity of two PhACs (both individually and as a mixture) through the quantification of bioluminescence inhibition in the marine bacteria Aliivibrio fischeri, a commonly used method in short-term toxicity tests. In this work, Acetaminophen and Edaravone, two drugs approved by the Food and Drug Administration, have been studied. The acute toxicity of these PhACs has been tested at two exposure times (5 and 15 min) and different concentrations, by estimation of the median effective concentration (EC50) for each individual compound or in combination at different concentrations. Moreover, the EC50 of the binary mixtures Acetaminophen/Edaravone have been forecast using two traditional predictive models, Concentration Addition and Independent Action. The results show that toxicity decreases with exposure time and depends on the concentration tested. Furthermore, a novel semi-empirical Van Laar-based model has been proposed and validated with the experimental data from this study and literature data, obtaining satisfactory estimations of the EC50 for binary mixtures. Highlights: The bacterial toxicity of Acetaminophen and Edaravone, as well as their binary mixtures, was evaluated using an Aliivibrio fischeri bioluminescence assay. The predictive power of Concentration Addition and Independent Action models was evaluated for combined bacterial toxicity of PhACs. A new semi-empirical Van Laar-based model was developed and validated to predict the bacterial toxicity of binary mixtures of Acetaminophen and Edaravone, providing accurate estimations with limited experimentation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research investigated the adsorption of propranolol (PROP) by functionalized green carbon nanotubes (MWCNT-B), assessing the influence of pH, in addition to kinetic, equilibrium, and thermodynamic studies and reuse of the material. For this purpose, speciation of PROP and the point of zero charge (pHPZC) of MWCNT-B were performed, indicating a pKa of 9.67 and pHPZC of 3.31. The adsorption tests at different pH values revealed that in the range of pH 3 to 9, there is no significant variation in PROP uptake, despite this, at pH 11, the removal decreases. Regarding PROP adsorption, the equilibrium time ranged from 30 to 90 min, and the PFO model best represented the kinetic data. The Langmuir model was more predictive in representing isotherms (R2 > 0.95), and the adsorption process was spontaneous and favorable (ΔG < − 20 kJ mol−1) and indicated exothermic behavior (ΔH = − 33 kJ mol−1) for PROP removal. In addition, the material showed satisfactory thermal regeneration results and can be reused for four cycles. The results suggest that MWCNT-B is an attractive adsorbent and exhibits effective removal of propranolol from aqueous matrices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tingui biochar (TB) activated with potassium hydroxide (TB-KOH) was synthesized in the present study. The adsorption capacity of TB-KOH was evaluated for the removal of acetaminophen and caffeine in monocomponent and bicomponent solutions. As a result, the study of the TB-KOH characterization as well as the adsorption kinetics, isotherm, thermodynamics, and a suggestion of the global adsorption mechanism are presented. TB-KOH was characterized through physical–chemical analysis to understand its surface morphology and how it contributes to the adsorption of these drugs. Furthermore, modelling using advanced statistical physical models was performed to describe how acetaminophen and caffeine molecules are adsorbed in the active sites of TB-KOH. Through the characterizations, it was observed that the activation with KOH contributed to the development of porosity and functional groups (-OH, C-O, and C = O) on the surface of TB. The monocomponent adsorption equilibrium was reached in 90 min with a maximum adsorption capacity of 424.7 and 350.8 mg g−1 for acetaminophen and caffeine, respectively. For the bicomponent solution adsorption, the maximum adsorption capacity was 199.4 and 297.5 mg g−1 for acetaminophen and caffeine, respectively. The isotherm data was best fitted to the Sips model, and the thermodynamic study indicated that acetaminophen removal was endothermic, while caffeine removal was exothermic. The mechanism of adsorption of acetaminophen and caffeine by TB-KOH was described by the involvement of hydrogen bonds and π-π interactions between the surface of TB-KOH and the molecules of the contaminants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]