Chitosan/Zeolite Y/Nano ZrO2 nanocomposite as an adsorbent for the removal of nitrate from the aqueous solution
Author
Abbas Teimouri a,,,
Shima Ghanavati nasab a,b
Niaz Vahdatpoor a
Saeed Habibollahi a
Hossein Salavati a
Alireza Najafi Chermahini c
aChemistry Department, Payame Noor University, 19395-3697, Tehran, Islamic Republic of Iran
bDepartment of Chemistry, Shahrekord University, Shahrekord 115, Islamic Republic of Iran
cDepartment of Materials Engineering, Isfahan University of Technology, Isfahan 84156-83111, Islamic Republic of Iran
Received 30 November 2015. Revised 1 May 2016. Accepted 25 May 2016. Available online 27 May 2016.
Highlights
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Removal of nitrate ions (NO3−) by CTS/ZY/Nano ZrO2 nanocomposite as adsorbent was investigated.
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Adsorbent was characterized by N2 sorption (BET), FTIR, SEM and XRD. #XPS#z.rtrif; Effect of molar ratio, pH, temperature on adsorbent capacity and model of kinetics and isotherm was investigated.
Abstract
In the present study, a series of chitosan/Zeolite Y/Nano Zirconium oxide (CTS/ZY/Nano ZrO2) nanocomposites were made by controlling the molar ratio of chitosan (CTS) to Zeolite Y/Nano Zirconium oxide in order to remove nitrate (NO3−) ions in the aqueous solution. The nanocomposite adsorbents were characterized by XRD, FTIR, BET, SEM and TEM. The influence of different molar ratios of CTS to ZY/Nano ZrO2, the initial pH value of the nitrate solution, contact time, temperature, the initial concentration of nitrate and adsorbent dose was studied. The adsorption isotherms and kinetics were also analyzed. It was attempted to describe the sorption processes by the Langmuir equation and the theoretical adsorption capacity (Q0) was found to be 23.58 mg nitrate per g of the adsorbent. The optimal conditions for nitrate removal were found to be: molar ratio of CTS/ZY/Nano ZrO2: 5:1; pH: 3; 0.02 g of adsorbent and temperature: 35 ∘C, for 60 min. The adsorption capacities of CTS, ZY, Nano ZrO2, CTS/Nano ZrO2, CTS/ZY and CTS/ZY/Nano ZrO2 nanocomposites for nitrate removal were compared, showing that the adsorption ability of CTS/ZY/Nano ZrO2 nanocomposite was higher than the average values of those of CTS (1.95 mg/g for nitrate removal), ZY, Nano ZrO2, CTS/Nano ZrO2, and CTS/ZY.
August 2012, Vol.118:158–162, doi:10.1016/j.biortech.2012.04.094
Title
Influence of pyrolysis temperature on physicochemical properties of biochar obtained from the fast pyrolysis of pitch pine (Pinus rigida)
Author
Kwang Ho Kim a
Jae-Young Kim a
Tae-Su Cho b
Joon Weon Choi a,,
aDepartment of Forest Sciences, Research Institute for Agriculture and Life Science, Seoul National University, Seoul 151-921, Republic of Korea
bDiv. of Wood Chemistry and Microbiology, Korea Forest Research Institute, 57 Hoegi-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul 130-712, Republic of Korea
Received 1 March 2012. Revised 24 April 2012. Accepted 25 April 2012. Available online 3 May 2012.
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of pyrolysis temperature on the physicochemical properties and structure of biochar. Biochar was produced by fast pyrolysis of pitch pine (Pinus rigida) using a fluidized bed reactor at different pyrolysis temperatures (300, 400 and 500 °C). The produced biochars were characterized by elemental analysis, Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) surface area, particle size distributions, field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, solid-state13C nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The yield of biochar decreased sharply from 60.7% to 14.4%, based on the oven-dried biomass weight, when the pyrolysis temperature rose from 300 °C to 500 °C. In addition, biochars were further carbonized with an increase in pyrolysis temperature and the char’s remaining carbons were rearranged in stable form. The experimental results suggested that the biochar obtained at 400 and 500 °C was composed of a highly ordered aromatic carbon structure.
Highlights
► Biochar was obtained as byproducts during fast pyrolysis of pitch pine at various temperatures. ► Yield of biochar decreased sharply from 60.7% to 14.4% with pyrolysis temperature. ► Carbons in the biochars were rearranged to highly ordered aromatic form.
by MICHELLE BOLYNPharmacist helping customer with prescription.Photo Credit Comstock Images/Stockbyte/Getty Images
Overview
Topamax is a drug that is generally used to treat migraines; however, it’s also used for other purposes such as epilepsy, depression and anxiety. It’s important to review the side effects of a medication with your doctor before you start it, so you’re aware of the potential negative outcomes. It’s also important to discuss medication regimes with your therapist when being treated for depression or anxiety.
Suicidal Thoughts
According to Drugs.com, Topamax can increase someone’s thought of suicide, so you’ll want to be vigilant about this if you’re diagnosed with depression. If you experience suicidal thoughts or an increase of suicidal thoughts when taking this medication, you should contact your doctor or therapist immediately. Thoughts of suicide can increase when the dosing is changed for this medication as well.
Common Side Effects
Some side effects are more common than others. While taking this medication you may experience vision problems, tingling sensations, confusion and dizziness. You may also become drowsy, feel pressure behind or around your eyes, have memory problems, have speech issues and have menstrual pain. Two symptoms of both anxiety and depression, a lack of concentration and tiredness, are common side effects of this medication. Also, a symptom of anxiety, nervousness, is another common side effect of Topamax. If you feel an increase in concentration problems, tiredness or nervousness, you should speak with doctor, because these are symptoms you’re trying to relieve by taking the medication.
Less Common Side Effects
You may experience less common side effects when taking Topamax. For example, you might experience stomach pain, flu symptoms such as fever and sore throat, loss of appetite resulting in weight loss and issues with your gums. According the Mayo Clinic, you may also experience mood changes such as irritability and depression. If any of your mood symptoms of anxiety or depression increase due to taking Topamax, you should consult your doctor and therapist.
Rare Side Effects
There are some side effects that can occur when taking this medication; however, they are rare. Rare side effects include blood in your urine, decreased libido, pain when urinating or frequent urination, nose bleeds, hearing issues and problems with bladder control. You could also experience issues breathing, a rash, irritated eyes and back pain. If you experience any of these rare side effects, discuss them with your doctor.
Serious Side Effects
Some side effects of taking Topamax are more serious and can lead to greater health problems. According to Drugs.com, you should contact your doctor immediately if you experience vision loss or eye pain, increased thirst and confusion, nausea, vomiting or other stomach problems and severe pain in your back or side. Discuss serious side effects with your doctor before taking the medication, so you will know when you should get immediate attention.
by ELIZABETH WOLFENDENWeight LossPhoto Credit Vladimir Tarasov/iStock/Getty Images
Effexor, the brand name of the drug venlafaxine, is approved by the FDA to treat anxiety and depression. Although Effexor may benefit those suffering from these conditions, the medication may also cause several side effects. While most of the side effects are harmless or temporary, certain side effects may be dangerous and even life-threatening. Always discuss all potential side effects of Effexor with your doctor before taking the medication.
Effexor and Weight Loss
The most common side effect of Effexor is nausea. This side effect occurred in up to 58 percent of people in clinical trials. However, other gastrointestinal problems are also common. In clinical studies, up to 17 percent of people experienced a loss of appetite, up to 15 percent of people experienced constipation, up to 8 percent of people experienced diarrhea, up to 6.8 percent experienced vomiting and up to 6.7 percent of people experienced indigestion. These gastrointestinal side effects may trigger weight loss in some individuals. In fact, on average, people lose about 1 to 2 lb. when they begin taking Effexor, according to eMedTV.com. However, you may not experience these side effects at all when taking Effexor. In fact, you could even gain weight. If weight loss is your goal, speak with your doctor about a medication specifically intended for weight loss.
Other Side Effects
Effexor also has many other common side effects. In clinical studies, up to 25 percent of people experienced headaches, up to 23 percent of people experienced drowsiness and up to 22.5 percent of people experienced insomnia. Emotional and mental side effects also may occur. Up to 21.3 percent of people experienced nervousness and up to 11.2 percent of people experienced anxiety in clinical trials while using Effexor. Confusion, agitation and unusual thoughts occurred in 1 to 6 percent of clinical trial participants. Sexual side effects are also common. Ejaculation problems occurred in up to 12.5 percent of people in the clinical trials, impotence occurred in up to 6 percent of people and a decreased sex drive occurred in 1 to 6 percent.
Considerations
Sometimes doctors prescribe medications because they believe the side effect of the medication may benefit the patient. This act is called off-label prescribing. Since Effexor may cause weight loss, some doctors may prescribe the medication specifically for that purpose. However, taking this medication solely for weight loss may be dangerous. While serious side effects of this medication are rare, they do occur and this potential risk should not be taken lightly. Always question your doctor about potential risks before taking this medication for an off-label purpose.
Warning
Many serious side effects may occur when taking Effexor, including increased blood pressure, serotonin syndrome, allergic reactions and changes in mental state. People with high blood pressure or known allergies to the ingredients in Effexor should avoid taking it. Although rare, serotonin syndrome can be fatal. Symptoms of serotonin syndrome include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, rapid heartbeat, hallucinations, sudden blood pressure changes, fever, shivering, chills, sweating, overactive reflexes, confusion, seizures and a coma. Seek immediate medical attention for anyone displaying these symptoms while taking Effexor. In addition, some people, particularly teenagers or young adults, may experience a negative change in mental state while taking Effexor. This may include worsening depression or anxiety, panic attacks, agitation or irritability, mania, aggressiveness, severe restlessness and thoughts of self-harm or suicide. People experiencing these mental side effects need the immediate attention of a mental health professional or doctor.
by SHIRA GOLDENHOLZEffexor XR withdrawal may include the symptom of balance problems.Photo Credit woman balance image by Jorge Casais from <a href='http://www.fotolia.com'>Fotolia.com</a>
Effexor XR, also known as venlafaxine extended-release, is an antidepressant medication approved by the U. S. Federal Drug Administration to treat depression, generalized anxiety disorder and panic disorder. If a different dose is needed, or the medication is going to be stopped, a gradual decrease in dosage is crucial; a sudden decrease or discontinuation of Effexor XR may result in symptoms of withdrawal. According to the medical reference UpToDate, a person going through withdrawal syndrome may experience a wide variety of symptoms.
Central Nervous System-Related Effects
Many of the symptoms of Effexor XR withdrawal affect the body's central nervous system--that is, the part of the nervous that consists of the brain and spinal cord. The online pharmacology database MicroMedex reports that several types of symptoms may result from this impact the brain. Patients may experience headaches, a sense of dizziness that may be accompanied by impaired balance and coordination, and even seizures. Other people experiencing Effexor XR withdrawal may complain of a perception of ringing in the ears, called tinnitus, or other strange sensations such as an "electric shock" feeling in the hands or legs. Finally, even the activity level of a person may be influenced by the withdrawal syndrome; some people may find themselves feeling agitated, others may have difficulty sleeping, while on the other end of the spectrum, other patients feel very tired and lethargic.
Digestive System-Related Effects
Many medications list the possibility of nausea and vomiting as side effects. In the case of Effexor XR, the sudden stopping or decreasing of the medication may also result in these effects. Other people may find that they have no appetite while withdrawing from the medication, while others may suffer from diarrhea as part of the withdrawal syndrome.
Psychiatric Effects
Abnormal irritability may be a psychiatric effect of Effexor XR withdrawal.Photo Credit Portrait of the guy with very dissatisfied person image by Sergey Sukhorukov from <a href='http://www.fotolia.com'>Fotolia.com</a>
Since Effexor is a medication that affects the brain's levels of neurotransmitters--chemicals that help relay the nerve impulse from one nerve cell to another, it is not surprising that the sudden discontinuation or decrease of the medication would have mood- and emotion-related symptoms. Some people withdrawing from Effexor XR may merely feel that they are more irritable than usual. Others may experience more nervousness than usual, which may become severe enough that it becomes general anxiety. Dysphoria, a general mood of anxiety, depression, or distress, may also be part of the withdrawal syndrome. Alternatively, patients may become hypomanic--a period of several days of abnormal behavior that may include excessive or pressured talking, feeling rested on very little sleep, being more distractible, and jumping from one topic to another. Finally, patients suffering from Effexor XR withdrawal may simply feel that their emotions are harder to control than usual, feeling happy and excited one moment, then sad or irritable the next.
by AUGUST MCLAUGHLINWarm fluids, fruits, vegetables and spicy foods can enhance recovery from the flu.Photo Credit low carb chicken and vegetable soup 1 image by Brett Mulcahy from Fotolia.com
Overview
The flu, also called influenza, is a contagious upper-respiratory virus that causes fever, chills, body aches, nasal congestion, dry cough and fatigue. Stay home, rest and avoid contact with others when you have the flu, advises the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. If you experience severe symptoms, such as rapid heartbeat, severe vomiting or chest pain, seek medical attention. Numerous foods and beverages can support your wellness and recovery from the flu.
Chicken soup helps alleviate nasal congestion, inflammation and body aches, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Hot steam from soup and hot beverages may also reduce congestion. Choose broth-based chicken soup when possible, since creamy soups may provide fewer benefits and possibly increase congestion. Vegetables in soup provide antioxidants that can help your body defend itself against infection and disease. Chicken provides amino acids, which supporting tissue repair. Other protein-rich soup ingredients include beans, lentils, split-peas and tofu.
Herbal teas, such as ginger tea, may help with symptoms of nausea, reports the UMMC. Add honey and lemon to your tea to help soothe throat pain and provide modest amounts of glucose, the body's primary energy source. Limit caffeinated teas and coffee, which may disrupt your ability to rest.
Opt For Vitamin C-Rich Foods
Halved kiwi fruitPhoto Credit Igor Dutina/iStock/Getty Images
Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant, known for its disease-fighting capabilities. Since excessive vitamin C in supplement form can cause negative side effects, opt for vitamin C-rich foods. Valuable sources of vitamin C include red and green bell peppers, citrus fruits, citrus juices, berries, kiwifruit, Brussels sprouts, tomato juice, broccoli, cantaloupe and cabbage.
According to the Office of Dietary Supplements, five servings of fruits and vegetables daily provides over 200 milligramsof vitamin C—more than twice the recommended daily amount for children and adults. Consume a variety of vitamin C-rich fruits and vegetables when you have the flu. If your appetite is reduced, consume fruit juices, vegetable juices, fruit smoothies, broth or tomato-based vegetable soups for similar benefits.
Spicy foods can reduce congestion associated with the flu. Try horse radish, to reduce sinus congestion, suggests the UMMC. Add cayenne pepper to soups, teas and other foods, or enjoy a spicy vegetable or chicken-based curry or stir-fry dish. Since the flu can reduce your sense of taste, spicy foods may also provide greater taste potential than bland foods. Consume cautiously spicy foods and beverages to prevent burning your tongue or developing other bothersome symptoms.
by TOYIN FAPOHUNDA-ADEKOLA, MDA young girl in bed sick with a thermometer in her mouth.Photo Credit Ridvan Celik/iStock/Getty Images
Influenza is a seasonal viral disease that typically causes symptoms of fever, chills, headache, stuffy nose, sore throat and muscle aches. Fever and muscle aches are typically among the first symptoms to develop. Muscle aches are caused by the immune system's response to the viral infection and typically last from three to eight days. An over-the-counter pain reliever can help alleviate muscle aches caused by the flu. Prescription antiviral medication can also shorten the duration of the flu, if taken early in the course of the illness.
Cause and Frequency
Most people with the flu experience muscle aches. A November 2000 "JAMA Internal Medicine" article reported that 94 percent of people with the flu experience muscle aches. When a person with the flu coughs or sneezes, tiny droplets containing infectious virus enter the air and environment, where they can spread to others. As the flu virus multiplies in the nose and airways, the immune system swings into action. Inflammatory chemicals called cytokines are released as the immune system fights the virus. Muscle aches from the flu are believed to be caused by high levels of cytokines in the body, according to the 2012 medical text "Influenza Complete Spectrum I."
Location and Severity
Muscles aches caused by the flu are usually felt in the arms, legs and back. In some cases, even the muscles of the eyes can be affected. The achiness ranges from mild to severe, and is usually worst during the first few days of the illness. A rare complication of the flu called myositis develops in some people. With myositis, muscle inflammation and tissue breakdown causes severe muscle tenderness. This complication most commonly develops in children, and most frequently in the calf muscles, notes the 2011 book "Influenza: Complete Spectrum II." Children sometimes refuse to walk because of leg pain and tenderness.
Symptom Timeline
Flu symptoms begin one to four days after infection with the virus. A high fever and muscle aches are among the first symptoms to develop. Muscle aches commonly last about three days, but may continue for as long as eight days before gradually diminishing. Development of the flu-related complication myositis usually occurs early in the illness. Symptom improvement typically occurs within a few days, but may take as long as a month, according to an August 2004 article in the journal "Infection." Flu symptoms usually begin to improve within three to five days, but full recovery can take as long as two weeks in some people.
Treatment Options
Although the flu can be debilitating, the infection is manageable. Prescription antiviral medicines can shorten the duration, symptoms and complications of the flu, especially if given within the first two days of coming down with the illness. As of 2016, oseltamivir (Tamiflu), zanamivir (Relenza) and peramivir (Rapivab) are recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Antiviral treatment is recommended particularly for people at high risk of flu complications, including children younger than 2, adults 65 or older, pregnant women and people with certain preexisting medical conditions. Over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) and ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) may also help relieve muscle aches and other flu symptoms.
Warning and Precautions
Other illnesses -- some potentially life-threatening -- are sometimes mistaken for the flu. For example, an infection of the nervous system called meningitis may present with flu-like symptoms of severe muscle aches, fever and chills, in addition to neck pain and stiffness. In young children, ear infections may produce flu-like symptoms, and the baby may refuse to nurse or take a bottle. Pneumonia also begins with symptoms similar to the flu that are frequently accompanied by a persistent and often wet cough. Doctors have various tests available to determine your diagnosis so that you receive the right treatment. Seek immediate medical attention if you have flu-like symptoms along with: - shortness of breath or difficulty breathing - a high fever that lasts longer than two days, or breaks and then returns - dizziness, fainting, drowsiness or confusion - inability to eat, or persistent nausea and vomiting - a new rash.
by AMY STERLING CASILHeadaches may be caused by the flu, respiratory and food allergies.Photo Credit Goodshoot/Goodshoot/Getty Images
An aching head, sore muscles, runny nose, as well as lack of energy and an upset stomach are all flu symptoms; however, they can also indicate a food allergy or allergic rhinitis, which can be seasonal or year-round, notes MayoClinic.com. Most people get the flu less than once a year, but if you are experiencing symptoms more frequently, you may have an allergy.
Fever and Aches
Fever caused by influenza has a sudden onset, and can range from 102 to 106 degrees Fahrenheit. Adults generally run a lower temperature than children with the flu. Body aches are another common flu symptom that accompanies fever in the early stages of the illness. Fever and aches from seasonal respiratory allergies like hay fever do not have as clear an onset as fever and aches due to the flu. Fever associated with allergies is also seldom as high as fever associated with the flu.
Nausea and Vomiting
Nausea and vomiting without respiratory symptoms like a cough and runny nose, are not associated with the flu. Some food allergies, like allergies to dairy, wheat and tree nuts, cause a variety of gastrointestinal symptoms. One symptom common of food allergies that is not common to flu is diarrhea. Nausea and vomiting are not symptoms of respiratory allergies, like seasonal allergic rhinitis or hay fever.
Headache
A headache is almost guaranteed with the flu, which results from the body's own immune reaction to the influenza virus, dehydration and swelling of nasal and sinus tissues.
Allergic rhinitis also causes headaches, but they are associated with increased mucus production in the nose, ears and sinuses. Food allergies can cause a headache as well, but headaches related to food allergies never occur without related symptoms like gastrointestinal pain and swelling of the face and throat.
Fatigue and Dizziness
People who suffer from all types of allergies almost universally report fatigue and tiredness. With the flu, fatigue and dizziness can sometimes persist long after other flu symptoms have subsided. Dizziness and lightheadedness associated with food allergies can be very serious symptoms, especially if they occur suddenly. If you experience difficulty breathing or your throat is swelling, you should immediately seek medical attention, as this is a sign of anaphylactic shock.
