An eco-friendly chitosan-genipin/SiO2 composite for reactive orange 16 dye removal: Insights into adsorption statistical modeling and mechanism.

The present work develops an effective bioadsorbent of cross-linked chitosan-genipin/SiO2 adsorbent (CHI-GNP/SiO2). The developed CHI-GNP/SiO2 was employed for the removal of organic dye (reactive orange 16, RO16) from simulated wastewater. The optimization of the fundamental adsorption variables (CHI-GNP/SiO2 dose, time, and pH) via the Box-Behnken design (BBD) was attained for achieving maximal adsorption capacity and high removal efficiency. The good agreement between the Freundlich isotherms and empirical data of RO16 adsorption by CHI-GNP/SiO2 indicates that the adsorption process follows a multilayer adsorption mechanism. The reasonable agreement between the pseudo-second-order model and the kinetic data of RO16 adsorption by CHI-GNP/SiO2 was obtained. The maximum RO16 adsorption capacity (qmax) of CHI-GNP/SiO2 was identified to be 57.1 mg/g. The adsorption capacity of CHI-GNP/SiO2 is attributed to its unique surface properties, including its highly porous structure and the presence of functional groups such as amino and hydroxyl groups. According to the results of this investigation, CHI-GNP/SiO2 has the potential to be an adsorbent for the removal of acidic dyes from wastewater.

Blended Nephelium lappaceum and Durio zibethinus wastes for activated carbon production via microwave-ZnCl2 activation: optimization for methylene blue dye removal.

Herein, this work targets to employ the blended fruit wastes including rambutan (Nephelium lappaceum) peel and durian (Durio zibethinus) seed as a promising precursor to produce activated carbon (RPDSAC). The generation of RPDSAC was accomplished through a rapid and practical procedure (microwave-ZnCl2 activation). To evaluate the adsorptive capabilities of RPDSAC, its efficacy in eliminating methylene blue (MB), a simulated cationic dye, was measured. The Box-Behnken design (BBD) was utilized to optimize the crucial adsorption parameters, namely A: RPDSAC dose (0.02-01 g/100 mL), B: pH (4-10), and C: time (2-6 min). The BBD design determined that the highest level of MB removal (79.4%) was achieved with the condition dosage of RPDSAC at 0.1 g/100 mL, contact time (6 min), and pH (10). The adsorption isotherm data is consistent with the Freundlich concept, and the pseudo-second-order versions adequately describe the kinetic data. The monolayer adsorption capacity (qmax) of RPDSAC reached 120.4 mg/g at 25 °C. Various adsorption mechanisms are involved in the adsorption of MB dye onto the surface of RPDSAC, including π-π stacking, H-bonding, pore filling, and electrostatic forces. This study exhibits the potential of the RPDSAC as an adsorbent for removal of toxic cationic dye (MB) from contaminated wastewater.

Radiographic Fusion Outcomes for Trinity Cellular Based Allograft versus Local Bone in Posterolateral Lumbar Fusion.

INTRODUCTION: Cellular-based autograft (CBA) is being used in posterolateral lumbar arthrodesis as a fusion supplementation alternative. OBJECTIVE: To assess radiographic fusion in patients undergoing posterolateral lumbar fusion with unilateral Trinity CBA compared with contralateral local bone autograft as an internal control. METHODS: A single surgeon's practice database was interrogated for consecutive patients undergoing primary posterolateral lumbar fusion with Trinity from 2018 to 2021. Patients had Trinity applied unilaterally, with local bone autograft applied contralaterally. Fusion was assessed postoperatively by using CT after 9 months. Demographics and patient-reported outcome measures were collected preoperatively and up to 12 months postoperatively. RESULTS: Thirty-nine patients were included. There were 81 attempted fusion levels. Overall fusion rate, defined as bony bridging on at least one side of a given level for all levels fused, was 85.2% of patients. No statistically significant difference was observed in fusion rates between CBA versus local bone (79.0% versus 76.54% of levels attempted, respectively, P = 0.3527). Oswestry Disability Index improved by 3 months (P = 0.0152) and was maintained. Two patients required revision for symptomatic nonunion. CONCLUSIONS: Similar radiographic fusion rates were achieved with Trinity and local bone. Trinity is a viable alternative to local bone in posterolateral lumbar fusion.

Unveiling the complexity of right middle lobe syndrome: a case series highlighting the association with asthma.

Introduction and importance: Right middle lobe syndrome (MLS) is a rare lung disorder primarily affecting children with a history of asthma or atopy. It encompasses a range of pathological and clinical conditions, from recurrent collapses of the middle lobe to bronchiectasis. In this study, the authors present a case series featuring four individuals with MLS associated with asthma, aiming to deepen our understanding of this uncommon condition. Case presentation: Four paediatric patients with right MLS exhibited symptoms of persistent cough, dyspnoea, and recurrent asthma exacerbations. Radiographic evaluations confirmed features consistent with right MLS, and bronchoscopy revealed mucus plugs and oedematous airways obstructing the right middle lobe bronchus. Treatment with bronchodilators, antibiotics, and corticosteroids led to symptom improvement and resolution of atelectasis. Clinical discussion: MLS is a rare condition characterized by chronic collapse of the right middle lobe and bronchiectasis. It is challenging to diagnose MLS, but computed tomography (CT) scans provide detailed lung images for confirmation. Treatment focuses on addressing the underlying cause, such as infections or mucus obstruction. Lobectomy may be considered in severe cases. This case series emphasizes the need for further research on MLS, as its rarity and characteristics remain unclear. Conclusion: These cases exhibited obstructive MLS with and without asthma. Accurate diagnosis is challenging, requiring imaging techniques. MLS has clinical implications, particularly in asthma patients. Future studies should focus on understanding the aetiology of non-obstructive MLS.

Sarcoidosis as a cause of chronic back pain: a case report.

While sarcoidosis is typically a multisystem disease, it can, in some instances, exclusively affect the vertebrae, leading to back pain. Additionally, sarcoidosis may manifest with inflammation of the sacroiliac joints, not meeting the criteria for spondyloarthritis, yet contributing to back pain. In this report, we present a case involving a previously healthy 55-year-old woman who sought medical attention due to chronic back pain. She was subsequently diagnosed with spinal sarcoidosis, based on MRI, PET scan, and biopsy results. Furthermore, treatment with prednisolone monotherapy demonstrated substantial improvement in her symptoms.

Recovery of functional independence following major burn: A systematic review.

BACKGROUND: Major burn injury, despite advancements in care and prevention, can have a profound impact on long-term morbidity, affecting quality of life and socioeconomic standing. We aim to explore factors predicting recovery of independence, the expected rate and time in majorly burned patients, and the measures of progress used. METHOD: A systematic search of four databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE, COCHRANE, CINAHL) was conducted for studies reporting outcomes pertaining to physical ability indicative of independent function in adult (>15 y) cohorts who had suffered a major burn (>20% TBSA) up to 30 years after treatment in a developed specialised burn service. Data extracted included factors affecting rate of and time to achievement of function in five independence domains, as well as the outcome measures used. RESULTS: 21 eligible studies were included comprising 1298 major burns survivors with a combined mean age of 39.6 y and a mean TBSA of 25.8%. The most significant recurring factors impacting recovery of independent function were older age, female gender, burn severity, prolonged ICU and hospital admission, preceding mental health conditions, and post-acute psychological issues. Exercise-based rehabilitation conferred benefits on major burn patients even over 2 years following injury. Discharge to independent living from hospital occurred in 27% to 97% of patients, while reported return to work rates varied from 52% to 80%. Burns Specific Health Scale-Brief, Functional Independence Measure, and Physical Composite Score (SF-36) were the most widely used outcome scoring systems. CONCLUSION: Major burn survivors have protracted recovery with potential for persistent chronic impairments, remaining consistently below baseline levels of function. Non-modifiable factors such as age and gender, and disease characteristics such as burn size with associated physical, physiological and psychosocial sequelae are contributory. Further research is required to explore achievement of specific milestones of major burn and polytrauma critical care patients, while early targeted rehabilitation addressing physical, psychological, and vocational needs has promising potential benefit.

Chitosan-grafted salicylaldehyde/algae composite for methyl violet dye removal: adsorption modeling and optimization.

In this study, a hydrothermal approach was employed to graft chitosan (Chit)/algae (ALG) with salicylaldehyde (SA), resulting in the synthesis of a biocomposite named salicylaldehyde-based chitosan Schiff base/algae (Chit-SA/ALG). The main objective of this biocomposite was to effectively remove methyl violet (MV), an organic dye, from aqueous solutions. The adsorption performance of Chit-SA/ALG toward MV was investigated in detail, considering the effects of three factors: (A) Chit-SA/ALG dose (ranging from 0.02 to 0.1 g/100 mL), (B) pH (ranging from 4 to 10), and (C) time (ranging from 10 to 120 min). The Box-Behnken design (BBD) was utilized for experimental design and analysis. The experimental results exhibited a good fit with both the pseudo-second-order kinetic model and the Freundlich isotherm, suggesting their suitability for describing the MV adsorption process on Chit-SA/ALG. The maximum adsorption capacity of Chit-SA/ALG, as calculated by the Langmuir model, was found to be 115.6 mg/g. The remarkable adsorption of MV onto Chit-SA/ALG can be primarily attributed to the electrostatic forces between Chit-SA/ALG and MV as well as the involvement of various interactions such as n-π, π-π, and H-bond interactions. This research demonstrates that Chit-SA/ALG exhibits promising potential as a highly efficient adsorbent for the removal of organic dyes from water systems.

The novelty of this work comes from introducing a new bio-organic based composite adsorbent of chitosan (Chit) biopolymer and algae (ALG) biomass. Moreover, the functionality and chemical stability of Chit­ALG composite was further developed by grafting process with salicylaldehyde (SA) using hydrothermal process. The incorporation of ALG biomass into polymeric matrix of Chit and grafting process with SA makes Chit a unique hybrid adsorbent toward cationic dye (methyl violet dye).

Di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) contamination suppressed soil microbial biomass carbon and mitigated CO2 emissions against the background of alfalfa from different soils.

Plastic mulching and organic amendments are prevalent agricultural practices worldwide. Plastic mulching has long been suspected as a significant source of DEHP contamination in terrestrial ecosystems. However, effects of DEHP contamination on greenhouse gas emissions and microbial biomass carbon (MBC) remain unclear. Here, a microcosm experiment was set up to assess the impact of DEHP exposure on MBC and carbon dioxide (CO2) emission in two different soils (acidic and alkaline) with the inclusion of alfalfa straw. The treatment includes: (i) control with no amendment (T1); (ii) alfalfa straw addition (20 g kg-1) (T2); (iii) DEHP (10 mg kg-1) + alfalfa straw (T3); and (iv) DEHP (100 mg kg-1) + alfalfa straw (T4). Against the background of alfalfa inclusion, DEHP exposure led to a potential reduction in cumulative CO2 emissions by 16.35 % and 6.91 % in alkaline soil and 12.27 % and 13.65 % in acidic soil for T3 and T4, respectively. The addition of DEHP triggered CO2 emissions and manifested a detrimental negative priming effect in both soil types. In both soils, average CO2 emission fluxes were highest for the T2 treatment. The MBC fluctuated at around 80 mg kg-1 for the control group, alfalfa straw alone (T2) treatment considerably enhanced MBC contents, whereas DEHP contamination in T3 and T4 treatments suppressed the stimulatory effect of alfalfa on MBC in both alkaline and acidic soils. Furthermore, a positive relationship was observed between soil CO2 emissions and MBC in both soils. Overall, these findings highlight the toxic impact of DEHP on MBC and its role in mitigating CO2 emissions in diverse soils. DEHP exposure counters the CO2 emissions induced by alfalfa straw. In addition, the inhibitory effect of DEHP on CO2 fluxes in alkaline soil is less pronounced than in acidic soil. Therefore, further cutting-edge research is crucial since DEHP contamination poses serious ecological threats to agroecosystems.

A novel chitosan-alginate@Fe/Mn mixed oxide nanocomposite for highly efficient removal of Cr (VI) from wastewater: Experiment and adsorption mechanism.

In this study, the synthesis and experimental theoretical evaluation of a new chitosan/alginate/hydrozyapatite nanocomposite doped with Mn2 and Fe2O3 for Cr removal was reported. The physicochemical properties of the obtained materials were analyzed using the following methods: SEM-EDX, XRD, FTIR, XPS, pH drift measurements, and thermal analysis. The adsorption properties were estimated based on equilibrium and adsorption kinetics measurements. The Langmuir, Freundlich and Temkin isotherms were applied to analyze the equilibrium data. The thermodynamic analysis of adsorption isotherms was performed. A number of equations and kinetic models were used to describe the adsorption rate data, including pseudo-first (PFOE) and pseudo-second (PSOE) order kinetic equations. The obtained test results show that the synthesized biomaterial, compared to pure chitosan, is characterized by greater resistance to high temperatures. Moreover, this biomaterial had excellent adsorption properties. For the adsorption of Cr (VI), the equilibrium state was reached after 120 min, and the sorption capacity was 455.9 mg/g. In addition, DFT calculations and NCI analyses were performed to get more light on the adsorption mechanism of Cr (VI) on the prepared biocomposite.

Production of eco-friendly adsorbent of kaolin clay and cellulose extracted from peanut shells for removal of methylene blue and congo red removal dyes.

This present work targets the production of an eco-friendly adsorbent (hereinafter KA/CEL) from kaolin clay functionalized with cellulose extract obtained from peanut shells. The adsorbents were used for decolorization of two different types of organic dyes (cationic: methylene blue, MB; anionic: Congo red, CR) from an aqueous environment. Several analytical methods, including Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (surface properties), Fourier Transforms infrared (functionality), scanning electron microscope, Energy dispersive X-Ray (morphology), and pHpzc test (surface charge), were used to attain the physicochemical characteristics of KA/CEL. The Box-Behnken Design (BBD) was applied to determine the crucial factors affecting adsorption performance. These included cellulose loading at 25 %, an adsorbent dose of 0.06 g, solution pH set at 10 for MB and 7 for CR, a temperature of 45 °C, and contact times of 12.5 min for MB and 20 min for CR dye. The adsorption data exhibited better agreement with the pseudo-second-order kinetic and Freundlich models. The Langmuir model estimated the monolayer capacity to be 291.5 mg/g for MB and 130.7 mg/g for CR at a temperature of 45 °C. This study's pivotal finding underscores the promising potential of KA/CEL as an effective adsorbent for treating wastewater contaminated with organic dyes.

High adsorptive performance of chitosan-microalgae-carbon-doped TiO2 (kronos)/ salicylaldehyde for brilliant green dye adsorption: Optimization and mechanistic approach.

A composite of chitosan biopolymer with microalgae and commercial carbon-doped titanium dioxide (kronos) was modified by grafting an aromatic aldehyde (salicylaldehyde) in a hydrothermal process for the removal of brilliant green (BG) dye. The resulting Schiff's base Chitosan-Microalgae-TiO2 kronos/Salicylaldehyde (CsMaTk/S) material was characterised using various analytical methods (conclusive of physical properties using BET surface analysis method, elemental analysis, FTIR, SEM-EDX, XRD, XPS and point of zero charge). Box Behnken Design was utilised for the optimisation of the three input variables, i.e., adsorbent dose, pH of the media and contact time. The optimum conditions appointed by the optimisation process were further affirmed by the desirability test and employed in the equilibrium studies in batch mode and the results exhibited a better fit towards the pseudo-second-order kinetic model as well as Freundlich and Langmuir isotherm models, with a maximum adsorption capacity of 957.0 mg/g. Furthermore, the reusability study displayed the adsorptive performance of CsMaTk/S remains effective throughout five adsorption cycles. The possible interactions between the dye molecules and the surface of the adsorbent were derived based on the analyses performed and the electrostatic attractions, H-bonding, Yoshida-H bonding, π-π and n-π interactions are concluded to be the responsible forces in this adsorption process.

High surface area activated carbon from a pineapple (ananas comosus) crown via microwave-ZnCl2 activation for crystal violet and methylene blue dye removal: adsorption optimization and mechanism.

In this investigation, microwave irradiation assisted by ZnCl2 was used to transform pineapple crown (PN) waste into mesoporous activated carbon (PNAC). Complementary techniques were employed to examine the physicochemical characteristics of PNAC, including BET, FTIR, SEM-EDX, XRD, and pH at the point-of-zero-charge (pHpzc). PNAC is mesoporous adsorbent with a surface area of 1070 m2/g. The statistical optimization for the adsorption process of two model cationic dyes (methylene blue: MB and, crystal violet: CV) was conducted using the response surface methodology-Box-Behnken design (RSM-BBD). The parameters include solution pH (4-10), contact time (2-12) min, and PNAC dosage (0.02-0.1 g/100 mL). The Freundlich and Langmuir models adequately described the dye adsorption isotherm results for the MB and CV systems, whereas the pseudo-second order kinetic model accounted for the time dependent adsorption results. The maximum adsorption capacity (qmax) for PNAC with the two tested dyes are listed: 263.9 mg/g for CV and 274.8 mg/g for MB. The unique adsorption mechanism of MB and CV dyes by PNAC implicates multiple contributions to the adsorption process such as pore filling, electrostatic forces, H-bonding, and π-π interactions. This study illustrates the possibility of transforming PN into activated carbon (PNAC) with the potential to remove two cationic dyes from aqueous media.

The novelty of this research work stems from the conversion of pineapple (Ananas comosus) crown wastes with no monetary value into an efficient activated carbon adsorbent with relatively high surface area. Furthermore, a fast and convenient microwave assisted ZnCl₂ activation method was applied for producing the activated carbon (AC). The effectiveness of the produced AC was tested for the removal of two different cationic dyes: crystal violet (CV) and methylene blue (MB). A statistical optimization that employs a response surface methodology with the Box-Behnken design was employed to optimize the adsorption variables for the optimal dye removal. Moreover, the dye adsorption kinetics and thermodynamics, equilibrium isotherms, and the details of the adsorption process were reported herein.

Biomagnetic chitosan-ethylene glycol diglycidyl ether/organo-nanoclay nanocomposite for azo dye removal: A statistical modeling by response surface methodology.

Herein, a quadruple biomagnetic nanocomposite of cross-linked chitosan-ethylene glycol diglycidyl ether/organo-nanoclay (MCH-EGDE/ORNC) was designed for the uptake of remazol brilliant blue R (RBBR) dye from aqueous environment. The adsorption process was systematically improved via the Box-Behnken design (BBD) to determine the influence of key uptake parameters, including MCH-EGDE/ORNC dosage, pH, and time, on the RBBR removal. The highest RBBR removal of 87.5 % was achieved at the following conditions: MCH-EGDE/ORNC dosage: 0.1 g/100 mL; pH: 4.0; contact time: 25 min. The findings of the kinetics and equilibrium studies revealed an excellent fit to the pseudo-second order and the Freundlich models, respectively. The adsorption capacity of the MCH-EGDE/ORNC for RBBR was found to be 168.4 mg/g, showcasing its remarkable adsorption capability. The present work highlights the potential of MCH-EGDE/ORNC biomaterial as an advanced adsorbent and lays the foundation for future applications in water purification and environmental remediation.