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[Display omitted] • Prepared ZIF-67/CoFe-LDH has excellent catalytic performance. • DFT demonstrated that oxygen vacancies mediated free radical and non-free radical pathways. • The role of reactive oxygen species in ZIF-67/CoFe-LDH/PMS system was studied. • The SMX degradation pathway was analyzed and the biotoxicity of the degradation intermediates was estimated. Herein, a novel rich oxygen vacancy (Ov) cobalt-iron hydrotalcite composite cobalt metal–organic framework material (ZIF-67/CoFe-LDH) was prepared by simple urea water and heat reduction approach and utilized for the peroxymonosulfate (PMS) system to remove sulfamethoxazole (SMX). 95 ± 1.32 % SMX (20 mg/L) was able to degraded in 20 min with TOC removal of 53 ± 1.56 % in ZIF-67/CoFe-LDH/PMS system. The system maintained a fantastic catalytic capability with wide pH range (3–9) and common interfering substances (Cl−, NO 3 −, CO 3 2−, PO 4 2− and humic acid (HA)), and the degradation efficiency could even remain 80.2 ± 1.48 % at the fifth cycle. Meanwhile, the applicability and feasibility of the catalysts for practical water treatment was verified by the degradation effects of SMX in different water environments and several other typical pollutants. Co and Fe bimetallic active centers synergistically activate PMS, and density functional theory (DFT) predicted adsorption energy about Ov in ZIF-67/CoFe-LDH for PMS was 1.335 eV, and O O bond length of PMS was stretched to 1.826 Å. As a result, PMS was more easily activated and broken, which accelerated the singlet oxygen (1O 2), sulfate radical (SO 4 •−), high-valent metals and other reactive oxygen species (ROS). Radical and non-radical jointly degrading the pollutants improved the catalytic effect. Finally, SMX degradation intermediates were analyzed to explain the degradation pathway and their biotoxicity was also evaluated. This paper provides a new research perspective of oxygen vacancy activating PMS to degrade pollutants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is unknown how antibiotics would behave after entering the hyporheic zone (HZ), which is an area where groundwater and surface water alternate continuously. In this study, the hydrolysis process in the HZ was investigated based on the intermediates identified by HPLC-Q-TOF-MS and FTIR, and the active sites of sulfamethoxazole (SMX) were predicted by density functional theory (DFT). The results showed that the hydrolysis rate of SMX during surface water recharged groundwater reached 38.94%, and the contribution rate of hydroxyl radicals reached 48.35%. In neutral and alkaline environments, SMX hydrolysed more quickly. This is due to the fact that ·OH, as the main precursor of OH-, is much higher in quantity under alkaline conditions. Inorganic anions such as NO3-, HCO3- and ${\rm CO}_3^{2-}$ CO 3 2 − may inhibit the hydrolysis of SMX by eliminating the reactive oxygen species generated in the HZ. In the process of groundwater recharging to surface water, the concentration of dissolved oxygen (DO) and the rate of SMX hydrolysis gradually reduced. Nitrification, hydroxylation and polymerisation are the main hydrolysis pathways of SMX. The hydrolysis products of SMX in the HZ are more plentiful and have a higher hydrolysis rate compared to the single oxygen environment. The study on the hydrolysis mechanism of SMX in this paper will provide a theoretical basis for the treatment of antibiotic pollution. The degradation pathways and influencing factors of sulfamethoxazole in the hyporheic zone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The removal kinetics of an aqueous mixture of thirteen antibiotics (i.e., ampicillin, cefuroxime, ciprofloxacin, flumequine, metronidazole, ofloxacin, oxytetracycline, sulfadimethoxine, sulfamethoxazole, sulfamethazine, tetracycline, trimethoprim and tylosin) by batch UVC and UVC/H2O2 processes has been modeled in this work. First, molar absorption coefficients (ε), direct quantum yields (Φ) and the rate constants of the reaction of antibiotics with hydroxyl radical (kHO•) (model inputs) were determined for each antibiotic and compared with literature data. The values of these parameters range from 0.3 to 21.8 mM−1 cm−1 for ε, < 0.01 to 67.8 mmol·E−1 for Φ and 3.8 × 109 to 1.7 × 1010 M−1 s−1 for kHO•. Second, a regression model was developed to compute the rate constants of the reactions of the antibiotics with singlet oxygen (k1O₂) from experimental data obtained in batch UVC experiments treating a mixture of the antibiotics. k1O₂ values in the 1–50 × 106 M−1 s−1 range were obtained for the antibiotics studied. Finally, a semi-empirical kinetic model comprising a set of ordinary differential equations was solved to simulate the evolution of the residual concentration of antibiotics and hydrogen peroxide (model outputs) in a completely mixed batch photoreactor. Model predictions were reasonably consistent with the experimental data. The kinetic model developed might be combined with computational fluid dynamics to predict process performance and energy consumption in UVC and UVC/H2O2 applications at full scale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) constitute an assorted class of multi-dimensional materials that offer the potential to serve as luminescent sensors for the sensitive and selective detection of antibiotics in wastewater. Herein, a new Zn(II)-based MOF with the formula [Zn(PMA)0.5(bbp)·H2O·DMA] (1) (bbp = 3,5-bis(benzoimidazo-1-ly)pyridine; PMA = pyromellitic acid) was synthesized by a solvothermal method and characterized. Crystallographic analysis reveals that MOF 1 possesses a 4,4-connected net with the Schläfli symbol {32·4·52·6}2{32·42·52}. The fabricated MOF exhibited luminescent property and was employed as a luminescent sensor to sensitively and selectively detect tetracycline (TCY) antibiotic amongst thiamphenicol (THI), 2-methyl-4-chlorophenoxyacetic acid (MCPA), tetracycline (TCY), sulfamethoxazole (SMT), thiabendazole (TBZ), tinidazole (TDZ), sulfadiazine (SDZ), chloramphenicol (CAP), metamitron (MMT), and dinotefuran (DTF). Further, restoration of the emissive response of TCY@1 was achieved by adding salicylic acid with a concomitant bathochromic shift in the emissive response. The possible sensing mechanism and restoration of emissive response were assessed with the aid of theoretical calculations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

After kidney transplantation, the recipients have been under long-term immunosuppression due to the use of immunosuppressive drugs, and they are high-risk population of Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia (PJP). The risk of PJP is the highest within 6 months after kidney transplantation and after intensified anti-rejection therapy. Fever, dry cough, progressive dyspnea and hypoxemia are common clinical manifestations of PJP after kidney transplantation. Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX) can effectively prevent and treat PJP, and significantly reduce the incidence rate and fatality of PJP. To standardize the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of PJP after kidney transplantation, Branch of Organ Transplantation of Chinese Medical Association organized relevant Chinese experts to formulate the " Guidelines for Clinical Diagnosis and Treatment of Pneumocystis Jirovecii Pneumonia After Kidney Transplantation in China" based on clinical concerns, aiming to provide guidance for the prevention and comprehensive clinical treatment of PJP after kidney transplantation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to investigate the effect of vermicomposting process in removal of sulfamethoxazole (SMX) and trimethoprim (TMP) antibiotics in cattle manure. In this experimental study, vermicomposting process was performed in 6 reactors on a pilot scale. The cattle manure (3.5 kg) and Eisenia foetida worms (120 g) were added to each reactor. Sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim antibiotics were added to reactors in four different concentrations of 10, 20, 50, and 100 mg/kg and two reactors were control free-worm with antibiotic and free antibiotic. Vermicomposting quality tests, including pH, electric conductivity (EC), total and volatile solids (VS), ash content, C/N, and potassium (K) were performed during the vermicomposting process for 8 weeks. Antibiotics concentration was analyzed using a high-performance chromatography (HPLC), and toxicity assessment of the final product was evaluated by germination index (GI) test. The results showed that there was a decrease in total solid, K and C/N and an increase in pH, EC, VS, and ash content parameters. Moreover, investigations showed a significant reduction in antibiotic concentrations at the end of the process. Antibiotics changes during the vermicomposting process showed that SMX had a faster removal rate compared to TMP and reached ≥ 99.99% at the end of the fourth week. In reactors with lower antibiotic concentrations, a faster removal rate was observed. The biodegradation of antibiotics follows first-order kinetics. GI toxicity assessment shows that this index reached 90% at the end of the process. Finally, it seems that vermicomposting is an effective method in reducing antibiotics in cattle manure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractIn this work, reed canary grass and activated carbons developed from this biomass were used as novel adsorbents to remove sulfamethoxazole (SMX) from water. Raw biomass adsorbent with the lowest surface area demonstrated the lowest SMX adoption capacity of 20.2 ± 1.6 mg/g and the activated carbon adsorbent with the highest surface area showed the highest adsorption capacity of 160.5 ± 4.2 mg/g. π-π, hydrogen bonding, Lewis acid base, and hydrophobic interactions are the possible mechanisms that could be responsible for adsorption of SMX on the adsorbents. Methanol, hydrochloric acid solution, sodium hydroxide solution, and deionized water were used to desorb SMX from the adsorbent. The results of using 20 mL of solvent at 35 °C showed that methanol could desorb loaded SMX with a higher desorption efficiency (80.1 ± 2%) than the aqueous solvents (9.5-46.5%). Decreasing the temperature to 25 °C decreased the desorption efficiency of methanol to 58.5 ± 1%. By decreasing the methanol volume to 5 mL, SMX desorption efficiency could remain comparable (59.1 ± 1.2%). Reusing the adsorbent in 4 adsorption desorption cycles showed that SMX adsorption capacity reduced from 124.9 ± 3.8 mg/g in the first adsorption cycle to 82.1 ± 2.2 mg/g in the second adsorption cycle and was stable in the third and fourth cycles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel CuO/Cu2O/CuS/ZnO quaternary heterojunction photocatalyst was constructed through a facile microwave technique. The structure, morphology and optical properties were characterized and explored. The photocatalytic activity of CuO/Cu2O/CuS/ZnO quaternary composite was assessed by antibiotic sulfamethoxazole under the simulated solar light irradiation. The quaternary composite manifested more excellent photocatalytic performance than the pristine ZnS and CuO/Cu2O. Moreover, the effects of ascorbic acid concentration on removal efficiency of sulfamethoxazole were discussed, revealing the importance of Cu2O in sulfamethoxazole removal. Particularly, as the ascorbic acid was 0.50 M, the total removal efficiency of sulfamethoxazole at an initial concentration of 20 mg/L was approximately 99.17 %, and the fitted pseudo‐first‐order kinetic rate constant reached 0.0380/min, which were 1.73 and 6.91 times of that in the absence of ascorbic acid, respectively. A double Z‐scheme charge transfer mechanism was confirmed by the reactive species trapping tests, which demonstrated that superoxide radicals and holes were the major reactive species responsible for sulfamethoxazol degradation. CuO/Cu2O/CuS/ZnO nanocomposite provided an interesting perspective for a highly efficient quaternary photocatalyst that could be employed for remediation antibiotics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An alternative solid phase extraction (SPE) material, 1‐butyl‐3‐methylimidazolium chloride–silver nanoparticles/eggshell membrane ([BMIM]Cl‐AgNPs/ESM), is developed by synthesizing [BMIM]Cl‐AgNPs using a simple reduction method and immobilizing directly on ESM. The newly developed material is successfully applied for extraction and detection of sulfamethoxazole (SMX) in environmental aqueous samples via a high‐performance liquid chromatography‐diode array detector (HPLC‐DAD). Characterization is accomplished by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and field emission scanning electron microscopy/energy dispersive X‐ray (FESEM/EDX), confirming the presence of [BMIM]Cl‐AgNPs on ESM. The optimization of [BMIM]Cl‐AgNPs/ESM‐based SPE method is studied by the one variable at a time (OVAT) approach. Method validation shows good linearity (R2 = 0.9995) in the range of 10–500 µg L−1, with the detection and quantification limits determined to be 3.07 and 9.31 µg L−1 respectively. Additionally, a reusability study shows the developed material can extract SMX up for three cycles without significant reduction in its efficiency. Excellent recoveries (90.07–104.08%) in spiked tap and lake water demonstrate the potential of [BMIM]Cl‐AgNPs/ESM for trace‐level detection of pollutants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, sulfamethoxazole (SMX) was applied as the model pollutant to assess the performance of pulsed current (PC) waveforms in the decontamination efficiency of the PC/peroxymonosulfate (PMS)/Fe(III) process and to investigate underlying oxidation mechanisms. Among the various waveforms tested, the sinusoidal wave (SIN), combined with the Dimensionally Stable Anode (DSA) electrode, demonstrated superior degradation performance, with the order being SIN > ramp > square > direct current (DC). The operational conditions for the SIN/PMS/Fe(III) system were optimized to an initial pH of 3, a voltage of 6 V, 0.6 mmol/L of Fe3+, 1.0 mmol/L of PMS, and a frequency of 1 kHz. The results of quenching and probe experiments confirmed the generation of abundant reactive radicals such as •OH, SO4•−, O2•−, Fe(IV), and 1O2 in the SIN/PMS/Fe(III) process, which collectively enhanced the degradation of SMX. Additionally, results of high-resolution mass spectrometry analysis were employed to identify the SMX oxidation byproducts, and the toxicity of SMX byproducts was evaluated. Overall, the SIN/PMS/Fe(III) process exhibits effective degradation capacity with high energy efficiency, establishing itself as an effective strategy for the practical treatment of medical wastewater. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanoparticle drug delivery systems are precisely designed technologies that utilize nanoparticles to deliver therapeutic drugs to specific targets and regulate their release. In recent times, nanoparticles have garnered significant interest owing to their potential for efficient drug delivery. This work is aimed at synthesizing Fe(II) and Cu(II) nano-sized complexes of sulfamethoxazole (SMX) using the sonication method. The physical and spectroscopic studies showed a colour change from white to grey, and a decrease in melting points suggested the formation of the metal complexes. The nanometal complexes were insoluble in water. XRD analysis showed that the crystallite sizes of Fe(II) and Cu(II) nanometal complexes were determined to be 76.08 nm and 37.13 nm, respectively, using the Debye-Scherrer equation. The FTIR results of the SMX, Fe(II), and Cu(II) nanometal complexes showed a shift of the amine band from 3243 to 3191 cm−1 and the sulfone band from 1154 to 1092 cm−1 in both complexes. The proton NMR showed a shift of the amine proton from 6.100 ppm to 6.035 ppm in the spectra of the Cu(II) complex. The amine chemical shift was absent in the spectra of the Fe(II) complex, showing deprotonation. The carbon-13 NMR spectra showed a similar chemical shift. The spectra studies indicated that SMX coordinated with the metal ions through the amino and sulfone groups. A tetrahedral structure was proposed for the complexes. SMX coordinated as a bidentate ligand to Fe(II) and Cu(II) ions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The primary objective of this research is to synthesize ZnO vertical nanorods on a conductive substrate through a novel approach. In this method, ZnO nanorods are grown on kanthal wires using the direct heating (DH) technique. The study investigated the application of ZnO nanorods in photodegradation, specifically in removing Sulfamethoxazole (SMX). Through comprehensive analysis techniques, including XRD, FESEM, and TEM, the successful growth of ZnO nanorods on kanthal wires is confirmed. Their photocatalytic activity in SMX degradation is evaluated at varying concentrations (3 ppm, 5 ppm, 10 ppm) under UV light. Notably, the ZnO sample produced under 80 W power and 120 min emerges as the most promising, exhibiting a high surface area of 36 m2g-1, larger length of 755 nm, and lower diameter of 12 nm, as well as superior SMX photodegradation percentages of 87.64 % (3 ppm), 77.86 % (5 ppm), and 51.84 % (10 ppm) after 60 min. These findings highlight the potential of synthesizing ZnO nanorods via DH technique as an efficient and sustainable solution for removing pharmaceutical contamination in water sources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Industrial Water Treatment is the property of CNOOC Tianjin Chemical Research & Design Institute and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The heterogeneous photo-Fenton system using Fe-Co/γ-Al2O3 as a catalyst was applied in the study of sulfamethoxazole(SMX) degradation. The morphology, structure, elemental composition and metal valence distribution of Fe-Co/γ-Al2O3 were found to be relatively stable before and after the reaction. The highest SMX degradation efficiency and mineralization (The ratio of organic matter being oxidized to carbon dioxide and water) were obtained under the conditions of 15% Fe-Co loading rate, 1:1 mass ratio of Fe and Co, 1 g/L catalyst dosage, 1.5 mL 30% H2O2 dosage, 18 W UV lamp power and 60 min reaction time, which were 98% and 66%, respectively. Radical quenching experiments and electronic paramagnetic resonance (EPR) characterization revealed that ·OH played an important role in the degradation and mineralization SMX in the Fe-Co/γ-Al2O3 heterogeneous photo-Fenton system. Combined with the analysis of N, S and intermediate products, there may be three degradation pathways of SMX in the heterogeneous photo-Fenton system. This work provides a technical reference for realizing the efficient degradation and mineralization of SMX in a heterogeneous photo-Fenton reaction system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to prepare composite materials with excellent photocatalytic property, a metal-organic framework material UiO-66 was successfully synthesized by solvothermal method. UiO-66/PVDF hybrid fiber membrane was successfully prepared by electrospinning technology. The experimental results showed that the surface of pure PVDF film fiber was smooth and the thickness of a single fiber was uniform. After doped with UiO-66 material, the fiber surface became rough. The hydrophilic property of PVDF modified fiber membranes doped with UiO-66 and the degradation ability of tetracycline hydrochloride were significantly improved. When the doping amount of UiO-66 was 1.0%, the degradation rate of tetracycline hydrochloride solution was the best and reached to 98.2%. For norfloxacin, ciprofloxacin, sulfamethoxazole, the degradation capacity could be reached 95. 0%. The degradation rate after 5 cycle experiments under light conditions was only slightly lower than the first time. It is considered that UiO-66/PVDF modified hybrid fiber membrane has large application potential in water purification field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simultaneous spectrofluorometric method described for the determination of trimethoprim (TMP) and sulfamethoxazole (SMZ) in pure and pharmaceutical preparations using H-point standard addition method (HPSAM) according to the reaction of nanograms of drugs with O-phthaladehyde (OPA) reagent to forms highly fluorescence compounds. The formed fluorophore excitation and emission at 342 and 458 nm, respectively, for OPA-TMP compound, at 424 and 508 nm, respectively, for OPA-SMZ compound under basic condition (pH 9.8) in the presence of 2-mercabtoethanol. A simple and accurate HPSAM is reported to resolve the overlapping in the fluorescence spectrum of these two drugs without prior separation of samples. The linear range was 100–1200 ng/mL for TMP and 100–1100 ng/mL for SMZ. The LOD and LOQ were 16.64 and 36.80 ng/mL, as well as 15.76 and 33.88 ng/mL for TMP and SMZ, respectively. The relative standard deviations and recovery percentages were 0.641% and 101.29% for TMP as well as 0.558% and 100.96% for SMZ, respectively. The procedure has been applied successfully in various pharmaceutical preparations. It was discovered that the experimental F- and t-values at a 95% confidence level were no higher than the theoretical values, showing that the HPSAM method is accurate and valid.

The occurrence of emerging micropollutants of pharmaceutically active compounds (PhACs) in the environment poses a public health concern. Due to PhAC persistence and toxicity even at low concentrations, advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) have gained interest as effective treatment methods. In this context, the present study focuses on the application of a dielectric barrier discharge (DBD)-based plasma jet to Diclofenac (DCF) and Sulfamethoxazole (SMX) degradation in aqueous media. Plasma is sustained by continuous-wave sinusoidal high-voltage of audio frequencies, and negligible total harmonic distortion, in a helium–air mixture. The target pharmaceuticals are chosen based on anticipation of their occurrence due to rehabilitation center (DCF) and hospital (SMX) effluents in sewage systems. The degradation rates are determined by Liquid Chromatography Triple-Quadrupole Mass Spectroscopy (LC-MS/MS). Removal efficiency close to 100%, after 20 min of plasma treatment in the case of DCF at an initial concentration of 50 ppb, is achieved. The post-treatment action of the plasma-induced reactants on PhAC degradation over a day-scale period is studied. The results provide an insight into the dynamic degradation (kinetics) of both DCF and SMX, and they overall highlight the potentiality of the process under consideration for sewage remediation.

Sulfonamide antibiotics (SAs) widely used have potentially negative effects on human beings and ecosystems. Adsorption and advanced oxidation methods have been extensively applied in SAs wastewater treatment. In this study, compared with Al3+@BC500 and Fe3+@BC500, La3+@BC500 for activating persulfate (S 2 O 8 2−) had the best effect removal performance of sulfadiazine (SDZ) and sulfamethoxazole (SMX). Morphology, acidity, oxygen-containing functional groups, and loading of La3+@BC500 were analyzed by techniques, including EA, BET, XRD, XPS, FT-IR. XRD results show that with the increase of La3+ loading, the surface characteristics of biochar gradually changed from CaCO 3 to LaCO 3 OH. Through EPR technology, it is proved that LaCO 3 OH on the surface of La3+@BC500 can not only activate S 2 O 8 2− to generate SO 4 −•, but also to produce •OH. In the optimization experiment, the optimal dosage of La3+ is between 0.05 and 0.2 (mol/L)/g. SDZ had a good removal effect at pH (5–9), but SMX had a good removal effect only at pH=3. Zeta potential also proves that the material is more stable under acidic conditions. The removal process of SDZ is more in accord with pseudo-first-order kinetics (R 2=0.9869), while SMX is more in line with pseudo-second order kinetics (R 2=0.9926). [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, we report for the first time the use of ternary oxide nanoheterostructure photocatalysts derived from (Nby, Ti1-y)2CTx MXene in the treatment of water. Three different compositions of binary MXenes, viz., (Ti0.75Nb0.25)2CTx, (Ti0.5Nb0.5)2CTx, and (Ti0.25Nb0.75)2CTx (with Tx = OH, F, and Cl), were used as single-source precursor to produce TiNbOx-3:1, TiNbOx-1:1, and TiNbOx-1:3 by controlled-atmosphere thermal oxidation. Phase identification and Le Bail refinements confirmed the presence of a mixture of rutile TiO2 and monoclinic Ti2Nb10O29. Morphological investigations through scanning and transmission electron microscopies revealed the retention of layered nanostructures from the MXene precursors and the fusion of TiO2 and Ti2Nb10O29 nanoparticles in forming nanosheets. Among the three oxide nanoheterostructures, TiNbOx-3:1 exhibited the best photocatalytic performance by the removal of 83% of sulfamethoxazole (SMX) after 2 h of reaction. Such a result is explained by a complex influence of structural, morphological, and electronic properties since TiNbOx-3:1 consisted of small-sized crystallites (40-70 nm) and possessed a higher surface area. The suggested electronic band structure is a type-II heterojunction, where the recombination of electrons and holes is minimized during photocatalytic reactions. The photocatalytic degradation of SMX was promoted by the attack of •OH, as evidenced by the detection of 2.2 μM •OH, using coumarin as a probe. This study highlights the potential application of MXene-derived oxide nanoheterostructures in wastewater treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) of Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG) is a significant public health concern. Objective: The objective of our study was to assess global AMR rates and test them both temporally and geographically. Methods: We conducted a systematic search of relevant reports from international databases up to 2021. The R statistical package was used for all statistical analyses. Results: A total of 225 articles were analyzed, and 432,880 NG isolates were examined. The weighted pooled resistance (WPR) rate of different antibiotics was as follows: ciprofloxacin, 51.6%; tetracycline, 45.4%; trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole, 42.4%; chloramphenicol, 4.1%; kanamycin, 2.1%; gentamicin, 0.6%; and spectinomycin, 0.3%. The resistance to spectinomycin, gentamicin, and kanamycin decreased over time. Significant differences in antibiotic resistance rates were found between the countries. Conclusion: Our findings reveal a continuous increase in resistance to some antibiotics (tetracycline and ciprofloxacin) historically used for gonorrhea, even after discontinuation. However, encouraging trends of decreasing resistance to spectinomycin, gentamicin, and kanamycin were observed. Continued global monitoring of AMR profiles in NG isolates is essential for informing appropriate treatment strategies and mitigating the threat of untreatable gonorrhea. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antibiotic exposure is associated with resistant bacterial colonization, but this relationship can be obscured in community settings owing to horizontal bacterial transmission and broad distributions. Locality-level exposure estimates considering inhabitants' length of stay, exposure history, and exposure conditions of areas nearby could clarify these relationships. We used prescription data filled during 2010–2015 for 23 antibiotic types for members of georeferenced households in a population-based infectious disease surveillance platform. For each antibiotic and locality, we generated exposure estimates, expressed in defined daily doses (DDD) per 1000 inhabitant days of observation (IDO). We also estimated relevant environmental parameters, such as the distance of each locality to water, sanitation, and other amenities. We used data on ampicillin, ceftazidime, and trimethoprim-and-sulfamethoxazole resistant Escherichia coli colonization from stool cultures of asymptomatic individuals in randomly selected households. We tested exposure-colonization associations using permutation analysis of variance and logistic generalized linear mixed-effect models. Overall, exposure was highest for trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (1.8 DDD per 1000 IDO), followed by amoxicillin (0.7 DDD per 1000 IDO). Of 1,386 unique household samples from 195 locations tested between September 2015 and January 2016, 90%, 85% and 4% were colonized with E. coli resistant to trimethoprim and sulfamethoxazole, ampicillin, and ceftazidime, respectively. Ceftazidime-resistant E. coli colonization was common in areas with increased trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, cloxacillin, and erythromycin exposure. No association with any of the physical environmental variables was observed. We did not detect relationships between distribution patterns of ampicillin or trimethoprim-and-sulfamethoxazole resistant E. coli colonization and the risk factors assessed. Appropriate temporal and spatial scaling of raw antibiotic exposure data to account for evolution and ecological contexts of antibiotic resistance could clarify exposure-colonization relationships in community settings and inform community stewardship program. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plants play a crucial role as a removal pathway in constructed wetlands, demonstrating the ability to absorb and tolerate antibiotics from wastewater. However, the specific contribution of plants in this regard has not yet to be sufficiently established. To gain a more comprehensive insight into the associated processes, we selected three common wetland plant species, Canna indica L. (C. indica), Cyperus alternifolius L. (C. alternifolius), and Thalia dealbata Fraser (T. dealbata), to evaluate their capacity for uptake, accumulation, and physiological response in the removal of sulfamethoxazole (SMX) at varying initial concentrations (10, 30, 100, and 300 µg/L) under hydroponic conditions. The results showed that SMX removal was more efficient at lower concentrations (10 and 30 µg/L) than at higher concentrations (100 and 300 µg/L). Moreover, plant systems were found to consistently outperform unplanted systems in SMX removal. Among the assessed species, C. indica was identified as being relatively effective in the removal of SMX, whereas the performance of C. alternifolius was notably less pronounced. A positive correlation was observed between the concentration of SMX in the plant tissues and that in the external aqueous medium. However, plant tissue residues contributed only a minor fraction to the overall removal of SMX. Wetland plants absorb SMX through their roots, and we accordingly detected significantly higher concentrations in submerged plant tissues. Furthermore, we also detected reductions in net photosynthetic rates indicative of potential phytotoxicity, which is associated with the accumulation of antibiotic in the shoot tissues. Accumulation of SMX in the roots and rhizomes was also found to be associated with the development of shorter roots, with this effect becoming more pronounced with an increase in the concentration of exogenous SMX. However, despite these adverse effects, plants can detoxify antibiotics via the glutathione pathway. Of the assessed plant species, C. indica was identified as the most SMX tolerant, as indicated by Km and Vmax values, with C. alternifolius being the least tolerant. Our findings in this study reveal the potential value of wetland plants in the sequestration of antibiotics and provide evidence for the underlying mechanisms of action. These findings could make an important contribution to the implementation of phytoremediation in antibiotic-contaminated water. Three wetland plants with fibrous root systems, namely Canna indica, Cyperus alterniflius, and Thalia dealbata, were selected to investigate the removal efficiencies of sulfamethoxazole in the hydroponic system by different emergent plants, quantify the contribution of uptake and accumulation for sulfamethoxazole in plant tissues, and assess the physiological responses of plants and their effect on the removal of sulfamethoxazole. The knowledge obtained from this study shows the potential use of wetland plants for removing antibiotics and the inherent mechanisms, which will be useful for the application of phytoremediation in antibiotic contaminated water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, a dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) based exciplex lamp emitting radiation at far UV-C wavelength 222 nm has been reported. The developed UV source has been used for the degradation of organic micropollutants (OMPs), i.e., brilliant red 5B (BR-5B) and sulfamethoxazole (SMX) in a batch-scale reactor. The degradation of OMPs has been performed using an advanced oxidation process by loading hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) as a radical promotor. The degradation efficiency and energy yield in the case of BR-5B have been found twofold as compared to SMX at similar experimental conditions, because of its high molar absorption coefficient at 222 nm radiation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Background: Research on acute cystitis in men is scarce and treatment guidelines differ between countries. Improved antibiotic stewardship is needed. Aim: To analyse antibiotic prescriptions and outcomes of Norwegian men diagnosed with cystitis in primary care. Design & setting: A nationwide retrospective study was undertaken in primary care in Norway. Method: We identified all episodes of acute cystitis in men diagnosed in Norwegian primary care during 2012–2019. Choice of antibiotic (from the Norwegian Prescription Database), treatment failure, re-prescription, and complications were stratified by age, calendar year, and risk factors. We used logistic regression to explore predefined risk factors (diabetes, prostate cancer, benign prostate hyperplasia [BPH], urinary retention, and any cancer) with complications (pyelonephritis, prostatitis, and hospitalisation) and re-prescriptions. Linear regression was used to explore time trends. Results: In total, 108 994 individuals contributed 148 635 episodes. Narrow-spectrum antibiotics were first-choice treatment in 71.0% of the episodes (52.5% of all prescriptions were pivmecillinam). More than 75% of the episodes with narrow-spectrum versus 82.2% of broad-spectrum treatment did not lead to any re-prescription or complication. Complications occurred in 1.8% of all episodes (0.5% prostatitis, 0.7% pyelonephritis, and 0.7% hospitalisation). BPH was associated with increased risk of complications and re-prescription. Diabetes was associated with a lower risk of re-prescriptions. Prostate cancer and urinary retention were associated with a lower risk of both complications and re-prescriptions. Conclusion: Our results support narrow-spectrum antibiotics as first-line treatment. Risk factor analyses warrants further investigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Stenotrophomonas maltophilia is an opportunistic, gram-negative bacillus with few therapeutic options due to a high level of intrinsic resistance. Trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (SXT) is recommended as the first-line treatment; however, minocycline (MIN) has been shown to have similar clinical outcomes in treating S. maltophilia and addresses concern for increasing resistance to SXT. Objective: The objective of this study is to evaluate the efficacy and safety outcomes of nonurinary, monomicrobial infections due to S. maltophilia in hospitalized patients treated with MIN or SXT. Methods: This was a retrospective study of hospitalized adult patients receiving MIN or SXT for nonurinary monomicrobial S. maltophilia infection from April 1, 2018 to March 31, 2020. The primary outcome was clinical disposition classified as rates of clinical failure, clinical improvement, or clinical success. Results: Eighty-two patients (88.2%) received MIN and 11 patients (11.8%) received SXT initially. Clinical failure occurred in 16 (19.5%) patients in the MIN group and in 4 (36.4%) patients in the SXT group (P = 0.242). Clinical improvement occurred in 11 (13.4%) patients in the MIN group and in 1 (9.1%) patient in the SXT group (P = 1.0). Clinical success occurred in 55 (67.1%) patients in the MIN group and in 6 (54.5%) patients in the SXT group (P = 0.503). Total duration of antimicrobial therapy (P = 0.3198), in-hospital mortality (P = 1.0), hospital length of stay (P = 0.9668), intensive care unit (ICU) length of stay (P = 0.1384), and 30-day readmission (P = 0.686) were similar between groups. Conclusions and Relevance: Rates of clinical failure, clinical improvement, or clinical success were similar between MIN and SXT for nonurinary monomicrobial S. maltophilia infections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Non-thermal plasma (NTP) is gaining increasing attention as a promising approach for advanced water treatment to degrade persistent organic pollutants. Aqueous solutions of sulfamethoxazole (4-amino-N-(5-methylisoxazol-3-yl)-benzensulfonamide, SMZ), an antibiotic largely employed for humans and animals and a widespread persistent pollutant of waters and wastewaters, were subjected to air NTP treatment in a dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) reactor. The effects of SMZ initial concentration and of the solution pH on SMZ decomposition kinetics and transformation products were investigated. Efficient degradation was achieved, resulting in the complete removal of SMZ (10 µM initial concentration) in less than 25 min treatments, in the exhaustive mineralization (a result never reported before in plasma treatments and seldom reached also with other advanced oxidation processes) of all organic carbon in 6 h and in an energy efficiency of 6.4 g/kWh at 50% conversion. By means of HPLC-UV/Vis and LC-ESI-MSn analyses, a number of organic transformation products was identified along the path to SMZ mineralization, all present always in very small amounts and in turn decomposed at short treatment times. The effect of the solution pH on the genesis and decay of transformation products was also investigated. Based on comparisons with literature data and on previous findings obtained with the DBD reactor used in this work, it is concluded that the major reactive species involved in the degradation of SMZ are the hydroxyl radical and ozone. Finally, toxicological analyses of water initially containing 0.5 mMSMZ and subjected to 4 h NTP treatment showed that the by-products are not toxic to Raphidocelis subcapitata and Daphnia magna, while residual toxicity was detected by Aliivibrio fischeri. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fe/Cu bimetallic catalysts have a synergistic effect that can effectively enhance catalytic activity, so Fe/Cu bimetallic catalysts have been extensively studied. However, the efficacy and mechanisms of Fe/Cu bimetallic catalysts' peroxidation activation have rarely been explored. In this study, Fe/Cu bimetallic materials were fabricated to catalyze different oxidizing agents, including peroxymonosulfate (PMS), peroxydisulfate (PDS), peroxyacetic acid (PAA), and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), for the degradation of sulfamethoxazole (SMX). The Fe/Cu/oxidant systems exhibited an excellent degradation efficiency of sulfamethoxazole (SMX). In the Fe/Cu/PMS, Fe/Cu/PDS, and Fe/Cu/PAA systems, the main reactive oxygen species (ROS) responsible for SMX degradation were hydroxyl radical (•OH) and singlet oxygen (1O2), while the main ROS was only •OH in the H2O2 system. The differences in the surface structure of the materials before and after oxidation were examined, revealing the presence of a large amount of flocculent material on the surface of the oxidized PMS material. Anion experiments and actual body experiments also revealed that the PMS system had a strong anti-interference ability. Finally, a comprehensive comparison concluded that the PMS system was the optimal system among the four oxidation systems. Overall, this work revealed that the PMS oxidant has a better catalytic degradation of SMX compared to other oxidizers for Fe/Cu, that PMS generates more ROS, and that the PMS system has a stronger resistance to interference. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sulfamethoxazole（SMX） is a broad-spectrum sulfonamide antibiotic. In this study, the B3LYP method of density functional theory（DFT） was used to optimize the initial configuration at the level of the B3LYP/6-311 + + G（d, p） basis set, and the most stable molecular structure was obtained. The bond length, bond angle and dihedral angle patameter values of SMX were given, and the molecule exhibited a non-planar structure. The frequency calculation was conducted at the same basis set level, and the infrared and Raman spectra of SMX were corrected and plotted using a frequency correction factor of 0.9630. The spectral bands were found to be mainly distributed in the frequency bands of 3600-2800 cm-1 and 1700-300 cm-1, and there are good agreement between the theoretically calculated and experimentally measured values, indicating that the DFT calculation method is desirable and credible. The GaussView 6.0 software package and the calculated potential energy distribution were used to assign each vibration mode within the frequency range. In addition, the electrostatic potential and frontline molecular orbitals of the SMX molecule were calculated and analyzed using the Multiwfn and VMD programs to predict the reactive sites of the molecule. These results provide basic data for detecting the vibration spectrum of SMX and are technical reference for its structural identification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, we present the application of a phosphorus-doped graphitic carbon nitride (P-g-C3N4) for the photodegradation of ciprofloxacin and sulfamethoxazole in water. The photocatalyst was prepared from doping g-C3N4 with phosphorus using different compositions of phosphoric acid (2%, 4%, and 6% w/v). The resultant photocatalysts (2%P-g-C3N4, 4%P-g-C3N4, and 6%P-g-C3N4) were characterized using Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), X-ray diffraction spectroscopy (XRD), scanning electron microscopy–energy-dispersive X-ray (SEM–EDX), and ultraviolet–visible diffuse reflectance mode spectrophotometry (UV–Vis DRS). Photocatalytic degradation studies of the targeted pollutants were performed and monitored using UV–Vis and liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectroscopy (LC–MS). The UV–Vis DRS showed a shift from 2.70 to 2.48 eV in the band gap after doping g-C3N4 with phosphorus. The degradation of sulfamethoxazole by P-g-C3N4 was found to be significantly higher (70%) as compared to g-C3N4 (50%). On the other hand, the removal of ciprofloxacin was found to be 60% for P-g-C3N4, while 50% was found to be the removal efficiency of g-C3N4. The high removal efficiencies were associated with the generated electron holes together with the hydroxyl radicals which played a predominant role in the successful degradation of ciprofloxacin and sulfamethoxazole. Recyclability studies showed that the photocatalyst obtained a high photocatalytic degradation of 65% toward sulfamethoxazole after five cycles. Degradation by-products such as anthralin acid (m/z 307) for ciprofloxacin and monohydroxylated I10 (m/z 269) for sulfamethoxazole were detected using LC–MS. Therefore, P-g-C3N4 serves as a promising photocatalyst for the effective remediation of wastewater generated by pharmaceutical industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The narrow pH application range and lower utilization of ferrous ions (Fe(II)) restrict the application of Fe(II)/persulfate (PS) technology. In this paper, simulated sunlight and citric acid (Cit) as a chelator were introduced in an Fe(II)/PS system to overcome the drawbacks and enhance the degradation of typical antibiotic sulfamethoxazole (SMX) in secondary wastewater. The degradation kinetics, mechanism, and influence factors of SMX in a sunlight/Fe(II)/Cit/PS system and a sunlight/Fe(II)/Cit system as a comparable system were investigated. The removal efficiency of SMX can reach 71.15% and 85.25% in the sunlight/Fe(II)/Cit system and sunlight/Fe(II)/Cit/PS system with 0.1 mM Fe(II), 0.6 mM Cit, and 1 mM PS. The increase of Fe(II) concentration in both systems proved that sunlight promoted the regeneration of Fe(II) from the ferric ion chelates. However, the Fe(II) concentration decreased after 30 min in the sunlight/Fe(II)/Cit/PS system because of the decomposition of Cit. Radical quencher experiments indicated that SO4·−, ·OH, and O2·− contributed 2.48%, 88.43%, and 6.91% to the removal of SMX, respectively. Electron paramagnetic resonance spectra also proved the formation of ·OH and O2·−. The degradation of SMX was proposed to proceed via isomerization, cleavage of S–N bond, and hydroxylation. Overall, the sunlight/Fe(II)/Cit/PS process can be used as an advanced treatment technology for antibiotics in municipal wastewater. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: In this study, nano‐MnO2–biochar composites were synthesized as catalysts to promote the oxidation of recalcitrant organic contaminants. MnO2 nanoparticles coated on biochar were hypothesized to enhance the oxidation of phenol and sulfamethoxazole (SMX) using ozone and/or persulfate. RESULTS: The optimal percentage of MnO2 coating on the surface of biochar was determined, and the synthesis of nano‐MnO2‐coated biochar was confirmed via scanning electron microscopy–energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDS), X‐ray diffraction and EDS line mapping analyses. Compared with oxidation using ozone or persulfate in the presence of either nano‐MnO2 or biochar, the synthesized nano‐MnO2–biochar composite markedly enhanced the oxidation of phenol and SMX. This was probably due to the spreading of MnO2 nanorods on the surface of biochar and the synergistic involvement of nano‐MnO2 and biochar as catalysts. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis confirmed the involvement of Mn3+ in MnO2 to promote oxidation using ozone or persulfate. The coexistence of ozone and persulfate could also promote oxidation. Hydroxyl radicals (OH•) and persulfate radicals (SO4−•) were major reactive oxygen species for ozone and persulfate systems, respectively. CONCLUSION: Results suggest that the synthesized nano‐MnO2–biochar composites may be effective catalysts for various types of advanced oxidation processes in environmental remediation. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sulfamethoxazole (SMX) is widely used for human and veterinary medicine, leading to its frequent detection in various environmental matrices. Microalgae, as one of the major primary producers in the aquatic environment, have been commonly employed as indicators to evaluate the ecotoxicological effects of various environmental contaminants due to their high sensitivity. However, the toxicity mechanisms of SMX on microalgae have been usually evaluated by conventional toxicity tests, and little is known about its toxic mechanisms at the biomolecular level. In this study, the toxic mechanisms of SMX on microalgae at the biochemical level were investigated using the combination of the microalgal growth inhibition tests and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis. Based on microalgal growth inhibition tests, the EC50 (95% confidence intervals) of SMX to three tested microalgal species was observed with the following order: Scenedesmus obliquus (8.53 mg⋅L-1) < Scenedesmusquadricauda (14.30 mg⋅L-1) < Scenedesmus acuminatus (90.45 mg⋅L-1). Meanwhile, obvious concentration-related biomolecular alterations were induced by SMX exposure. Results suggested that SMX could cause the peroxidation of lipids and alterations in the length of lipid chains, leading to damage of the fluidity and permeability of cell membrane. Additionally, alterations in Amide I and Amide II indicated changes in the secondary structure of proteins. Furthermore, changes in DNA conformation were also induced by SMX, leading to the transition of B-DNA to A-DNA. Meanwhile, differences in FTIR spectral profiles caused by three tested microalgal species might be attributed to the differences in their cell walls composition and structure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: To evaluate antibiotic prophylaxis in transrectal prostate biopsies due to the recommendation of the European Medicines Agency (EMA): We describe our single center experience switching from ciprofloxacin to fosfomycin trometamol (FMT) alone and to an augmented prophylaxis combining fosfomycin and trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (TMP/SMX). Methods: Between 01/2019 and 12/2020 we compared three different regimes. The primary endpoint was the clinical diagnosis of an infection within 4 weeks after biopsy. We enrolled 822 men, 398 (48%) of whom received ciprofloxacin (group-C), 136 (16.5%) received FMT (group-F) and 288 (35%) received the combination of TMP/SMX and FMT (group-BF). Results: Baseline characteristics were similar between groups. In total 37/398 (5%) postinterventional infections were detected, of which 13/398 (3%) vs 18/136 (13.2%) vs 6/288 (2.1%) were detected in group-C, group-F and group-BF respectively. The relative risk of infectious complication was 1.3 (CI 0.7–2.6) for group-C vs. group-BF and 2.8 (CI 1.4–5.7) for group-F vs. group-BF respectively. Conclusion: The replacement of ciprofloxacin by fosfomycin alone resulted in a significant increase of postinterventional infections, while the combination of FMT and TMP/SMX had a comparable infection rate to FQ without apparent adverse events. Therefore, this combined regimen of FMT and TMP/SMX is recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymes are crucial for the detoxification of xenobiotics, cellular metabolism, and homeostasis. This study investigated the molecular characterization of CYP enzymes in the black-spotted frog, Pelophylax nigromaculatus, and examined the regulation of CYP expression in response to chronic exposure to the antibiotic sulfamethoxazole (SMX) at various environmental concentrations (0, 1, 10, and 100 μg/L). The full-length cDNA of Pn-CYP26B1 was identified. The sequence included open reading frames of 1,536 bp, encoding proteins comprising 511 amino acids. The signature motif, FxxGxxxCxG, was highly conserved when compared with a number of selected animal species. SMX significantly upregulated the expression of the protein CYP26B1 in frog livers at concentrations of 1 and 10 μg/L. SMX showed an affinity for CYP26B1 of -7.6 kcal/mol, indicating a potential mechanism for SMX detoxification or adaptation of the frog. These findings contributed to our understanding of the environmental impact of antibiotics on amphibian species and underscored the importance of CYP enzymes in maintaining biochemical homeostasis under exposure to xenobiotic stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bioelectrochemical systems (BESs) are an innovative technology for the efficient degradation of antibiotics. Shewanella oneidensis (S. oneidensis) MR-1 plays a pivotal role in degrading sulfamethoxazole (SMX) in BESs. Our study investigated the effect of BES conditions on SMX degradation, focusing on microbial activity. The results revealed that BESs operating with a 0.05 M electrolyte concentration and 2 mA/cm2 current density outperformed electrolysis cells (ECs). Additionally, higher electrolyte concentrations and elevated current density reduced SMX degradation efficiency. The presence of nutrients had minimal effect on the growth of S. oneidensis MR-1 in BESs; it indicates that S. oneidensis MR-1 can degrade SMX without nutrients in a short period of time. We also highlighted the significance of mass transfer between the cathode and anode. Limiting mass transfer at a 10 cm electrode distance enhanced S. oneidensis MR-1 activity and BES performance. In summary, this study reveals the complex interaction of factors affecting the efficiency of BES degradation of antibiotics and provides support for environmental pollution control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]