Showing 135 results for Ph
Nabi Shariatifar, Jafar Hajavi, Seyed Hosein Abtahi Eivary, Mojtaba Kianmehr,
Volume 15, Issue 4 (3-2023)
Abstract
Background and Objective: The present study aimed to explore the shielding effects of aqueous and ethanolic extracts of Zataria multiflora Boiss on human lymphocyte DNA damage using the comet assay.
Materials and Methods: This study was conducted as a laboratory experiment to investigate the protective effects of thyme in preventing DNA damage. Peripheral blood lymphocytes were isolated from 16 healthy volunteers. First, the cells were treated with 100 μM H2O2 and aqueous and alcoholic extracts of thyme leaves with a concentration of 2.5 mg/mL separately. Finally, the cells were incubated in a mixture of H2O2 to cause DNA damage with each of the two aqueous and alcoholic extracts at 4°C for 30 minutes. The amount of DNA migration in cells was measured using the Comet method, and DNA damage was expressed as three indicators: sequence length, percentage of DNA in the sequence, and the amount of sequence movement.
Results: The results showed that the DNA damage of lymphocytes exposed to the ethanolic extract of Z. multiflora Boiss was significantly lesser than the H2O2-treated lymphocytes. In addition, tail length (µm) was 5.48±1.62 versus 22.82±6.90, tail DNA (%) was 4.56±1.55 in contrast to 16.00±4.55, and tail moment (µm) was 0.28±0.11 against 2.33±0.83 (p < 0.001). The results showed that Z.multiflora Boiss aqueous and ethanolic extracts were significantly able to scavenge DPPH radicals through a possible radical scavenging activity mechanism.
Conclusion: As a result, the ethanolic extract had a better effect than the aqueous extract of Z. multiflora Boiss in preventing oxidative DNA damage to human lymphocytes.
Gholamali Sharifiarab, Mohammad Ahmadi, Nabi Shariatifar, Peiman Ariaii,
Volume 16, Issue 1 (6-2023)
Abstract
Background and Objective: polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are compounds with high carcinogenic and mutagenic potential. This study aims to investigate the amount of 16 of these compounds in different types of canned fish.
Materials and Methods: In this research, first, multi-walled carbon nanotubes were magnetized by the MSPE method, and then the synthesized composite was used to extract PAHs from the matrix of canned fish samples. Finally, the concentration of each of these compounds was measured by GC-MS.
Results: The results of this research showed that the highest average amount of total PAHs and PAH4 were 20.22±5.29 and 6.07±1.41 μg/kg, respectively. Also, the highest average amount of benzo[a]pyrene (BaP) found in all samples was 1.34±0.41 μg/kg, which was lower than the existing standards (EU standard for BaP in fish is 2 μg/kg). The amount of these compounds in different types of canned fish were as follows: canned in olive oil > canned with dill > simple canned fish > canned in salt water. And finally, the amount of these compounds in brand A was higher than in other brands.
Conclusion: Based on the findings of this research and since the total average of each of these compounds is lower than the existing standards in different types of canned fish, it can be said that there is no danger to the consumers.
Tahereh Ebrahimi, Khosro Piri, Asghar Abdoli, Masoud Tohidfar,
Volume 16, Issue 1 (6-2023)
Abstract
Background and Objective: The presence of toxic compounds, including phenol, due to industrial development, poses a threat to the environment. Utilizing hairy roots has emerged as a potential method to remove these toxins. This review aims to explore the efficacy of hairy roots in absorbing phenol pollutants and the influencing parameters.
Materials and Methods: This study was conducted using a descriptive-review method based on existing literature gathered from databases such as Science Direct, PubMed, and Google Scholar. The focus of the study was on the purification of phenol using hairy roots. Keywords such as Phytoremediation, Hairy root, Phenol, and Transgenic roots were used for data collection.
Results: Results show successful phenol removal by hairy roots, potentially attributed to abundant production of peroxidase enzymes. Various factors, such as hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), incubation time, pH, plant species, and pollutant concentration, impact phenol removal efficiency. Notably, plants like Brassica napus, rich in peroxidase enzymes, exhibit high efficiency in removing phenol pollution up to 500 mg/L, with H2O2 and within a pH range of 4-9.
Conclusion: In conclusion, hair roots possess significant adsorption capacity for phenol. However, phenol concentration, contact time, pH, and temperature influence their performance. Therefore, further research is required to explore optimal conditions for phenol removal.
Atiyeh Sharifi, Moslem Daliri, Mohammad Niroumand, S. Ali Reza Sobhani, Moslem Sharifinia,
Volume 16, Issue 1 (6-2023)
Abstract
Background and Objective: Occurrence of the pharmaceutical active residues (particularly antibiotics) threatens the health of the environment and human society. Therefore, this research aimed to investigate the impacts of the Amoxicillin (AMX) residues on resistance to environmental stress and biochemical compositions of the body in Penaeus vannamei.
Materials and Methods: Six-hundred specimens with a mean (±SD) weight and total length of 9.23±1.77 g and 9.28±0.73 cm were randomly experimented in four triplicate treatments, namely T1(control): without AMX residues in a rearing environment, T2: 100 μg/L AMX residues concentration in water, T3: 300 μg/L and T4: 500 μg/L for 60 days. At the end of the experimental trial, five specimens for biochemical body composition analyses were separately sampled. Ten shrimps from each treatment were also randomly selected and exposed to 50 ppt salinity stress for 48 hours, and then survival rates were computed.
Results: Body composition analyses showed that moisture and protein not differed among the treatments (p>0.05), while fat in T2 (28.29±5.50) was significantly more than in others (p<0.05). The lowest values of ash were obtained in T1 and T4, and they differed with T2 and T3 (p<0.05). The highest survival rate of shrimps exposed to salinity stress (50 ppt in 48 h) was observed in T2 and T3, in contrast, the lowest value was recorded for T4 (p<0.01).
Conclusion: Findings of the present research indicate that the occurrence of high doses of AMX residues pollution in the rearing water affects the stress resistance of P. vannamei which can be due to disruption of protein and fat metabolisms in the shrimp body.
Ehsan Aghayani, Sakine Shekoohiyan, Ali Behnami, Ali Abdolahnejad, Mojtaba Pourakbar, Hamed Haghnazar, Vahideh Mahdavi, Amir Mohammadi,
Volume 16, Issue 1 (6-2023)
Abstract
Background and Objective: Heavy metals in water can pose risks to human health. Therefore, it is necessary to monitor and measure metals to ensure the health of consumers.
Materials and Methods: This study aimed to measure heavy metals such as arsenic, lead, cadmium, chromium, zinc, and mercury in water resources and urban water distribution networks in spring and summer of 2021 in Maragheh city. Accordingly, 25 samples were taken to investigate the presence of heavy metals. The presence of these metals in water sources was investigated using qualitative maps and finally, by evaluating the health risk caused by the presence of these metals, their effect on the health of consumers has been studied.
Results: Examining the concentration of metals in water resources upstream of the dam shows a relatively high concentration of metals, especially arsenic (13.2 µg/L). Despite this, the amount of arsenic after the water treatment plant and in the distribution network is reduced to an insignificant level. On the other hand, the results show that the amount of zinc metal in the network is higher than in the reservoir of the dam, and its concentration in the dam is equal to zero and in the network, it reaches the highest value of 578 µg/L. Finally, the health risk assessment shows that the calculated THI values for all samples vary between 0.01 and 0.99.
Conclusion: Based on the calculated health risk, there is no threat to the health of consumers regarding heavy metals in Maragheh drinking water. Also, these results double the necessity of additional studies regarding the leakage of zinc metal from the pipes and accessories of the city's drinking water distribution network in the future.
Mohammad Ghafoori, Mehrdad Cheraghi, Maryam Kiani Sadr, Bahareh Lorestani, Soheil Sobhanardakani,
Volume 16, Issue 2 (9-2023)
Abstract
Background and Objective: Antibiotics are emerging pollutants that enter the human environment through pharmaceutical, hospital, and urban wastewater. Therefore, this study was conducted to investigate of removal efficacy of tetracycline (TC) from aqueous solutions using GO@Fe3O4@β-CD.
Materials and Methods: In this descriptive study, GO@Fe3O4@β-CD was synthesized and then used as an adsorbent for the removal of TC from aqueous solution. GO@Fe3O4@β-CD was characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Scanning electronic microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and vibrating sample magnetometry (VSM) methods. Also, the influence of variables including pH (3-9), amount of adsorbent (0.003-0.050 g), contact time (0-100 min), and temperature (25-55 °C) so assessed on the efficacy of TC removal.
Results: The results of TGA analysis showed that GO@Fe3O4@β-CD nanoparticles were resistant to temperatures up to 400 °C. Also, the results indicated that β-cyclodextrin was uniformly dispersed on the surface of GO@Fe3O4.
The results indicated that removal efficiency increased up to 60 min contact time, 0.01 g of adsorbent, and decrease temperature to 25 °C. The optimum pH for TC removal was 7.0. Also, under these conditions, the adsorption process followed the Langmuir adsorption isotherm with a correlation coefficient of 0.992 and the pseudo-second-order kinetic model with a correlation coefficient of 0.997, 0.999, and 0.998. The maximum adsorption capacity of the prepared adsorbent was 357 mg/g.
Conclusion: The GO@Fe3O4@β-CD could be an effective and efficient adsorbent for the removal of TC from industrial wastewater.
Sara Mirzaei, Mohammad Ahmadi, Nabi Shariatifar, Peiman Ariaii,
Volume 16, Issue 2 (9-2023)
Abstract
Background and Objective: Today with progress and improvement of knowledge of human in the food industry field, plastic coatings owing to their unique properties, is extensively applied for a package of beverages and food like water and milk. Phthalate esters (PAEs) are applied to increase e sustainability, efficiency and flexibility of materials. Chronic exposure to stated compounds has a role in the occurrence of several types of human illnesses and cancer. The purpose of this study is to investigate the presence and amount of phthalate esters in different types of milk supplied in Tehran city by using magnetized nanotube crane with magnetic iron oxide and through GC-MS device.
Materials and Methods: In this research, multi-walled magnetic carbon nanotubes were synthesized by applying iron oxide and then synthesized magnetic nanotubes were applied for absorption and extraction of PAEs from the matrix of milk samples. The number of samples is 60 and has been selected from Tehran, which has been repeated twice. After the preparation of sample, by using GC-MS, each PAEs concentration was assessed. SPSS software was used for data analysis (Kruskal-Wallis and Kolmogorov–Smirnov tests).
Results: The outcomes of this study indicated the mean of total phthalates and DEHP in all samples was 5.26 (ranged from 2.94-8.39) and 0.97 (ranged from nd-2.05) µg/L, which were lower than the existing standards (DEHP standard in water is equal to 6 µg/L).
Conclusion: According to the current results and with regard to the lower concentration of each PAEs compared with the standard levels in different types of Iranian consumed milk, it can be concluded that there is no hazardous effect for consumers.
Fatemeh Kakouei Dinaki, Mehrdad Cheraghi, Bahareh Lorestani, Soheil Sobhanardakani, Atefeh Chamani,
Volume 16, Issue 3 (12-2023)
Abstract
Background and Objective: Monitoring and remediation of metal contaminants in aquatic ecosystems is of particular importance to estimate, control, and reduce the level of threats to alive creatures and humans. Therefore, this study was conducted to evaluate metal contamination of surface sediments and the ability to monitor and bioremediation of iron, lead, and copper by aerial and underground tissues of Typha Latifolia and Nasturtium microphyllum located along the aquatic ecosystem of the Lar River, Tehran, Iran in 2021.
Materials and Methods: In this descriptive study, after selecting four sampling sites, 48 plant samples and 12 sediment samples were collected. After preparation and acid digestion of the samples in the laboratory, the contents of the elements were determined using inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES). Also, pollution index (PI), pollution load index (PLI), bioconcentration coefficient (BCF), bioaccumulation (BAF), and translocation factor (TF) were calculated. Statistical analyses of the results were performed using SPSS statistical software.
Results: The highest values of Fe, Pb, and Cu (mg/kg) in sediment samples were 11.8 ± 0.665, 0.915 ± 0.030, and 0.710 ± 0.026, respectively, and belonged to station 4; and in plant tissues 11.4 ± 1.25, 0.578 ± 0.180, and 0.298 ± 0.095, respectively, and were belonged to the roots of T. Latifolia. The PI values showed that the pollution of Fe, Pb, and Cu was "low" and the average PI values for the elements followed the descending order of Pb > Cu > Fe. The average values of PLI also vary from 0.003 to 0.006, indicating the quality conditions of "no pollution" in all the studied stations. On the other hand, T. Latifolia had a BCF > 1 and TF < 1 for Fe.
Conclusion: Based on the results obtained, it can be concluded that T. Latifolia is a suitable species for stabilizing Fe in sediments and could be used to monitor and remediate potentially toxic elements from polluted aquatic ecosystems.
Arezoo Yari, Ali Ardalan, Abbas Ostadtaghizadeh,
Volume 16, Issue 4 (3-2024)
Abstract
Background and Objective: Demographic characteristics are among the factors that can contribute to flood-related deaths. Investigating the relationship between these factors and flood-related deaths, as well as measuring their impact on the prevention, reduction, and elimination of such deaths, is essential.
Materials and Methods: This study was conducted as a case-control study in all flood-affected areas of Iran that experienced flood-related deaths from 2002-2018. The sample size of the study was 369 (123 cases and 246 controls) from 12 provinces and 30 counties. The study measured the impact of demographic characteristics on flood-related deaths using a valid and reliable tool.
Results: The findings of this study revealed that individuals under the age of 15 face a 31.974 times higher risk of flood-related death compared to individuals over 65. The young population, specifically those aged 15 to 29 in Iran, have a 1.475 times higher risk. Drivers face a 13.874 times higher risk, while individuals involved in agriculture, shepherding, and livestock farming have a 0.947 times higher risk compared to homeowners.
Conclusion: Among the demographic characteristics, children, young adults, and engaging in certain high-risk occupations such as driving or agriculture increase the risk of flood-related deaths. Therefore, it is recommended to prioritize protection, education, and vulnerability reduction measures for these individuals, especially in flood-prone areas.
Mojtaba Yeganeh, Sevda Fallah, Hanieh Fakhri, Mahdi Farzadkia,
Volume 17, Issue 1 (6-2024)
Abstract
Background and Objective: Phenol compounds are commonly applied as raw materials in the production of pesticides, herbicides, and dyes. These compounds are toxic to animals, plants, and microorganisms. In this study, the sonophotocatalytic degradation of 2,4-dinitrophenol in aqueous solutions was investigated using organic-mineral polymer catalysts containing Zink and Cobalt oxides under visible light and ultrasonic (US) irradiation.
Materials and Methods: The characteristics of the synthesized catalyst were determined using XRD, FTIR, and SEM techniques. The effect of several key parameters, including pH (3-9), catalyst dosage (0.3-1 g/L), time (0-90 min), US power (100-200 W/m2), and initial concentration of 2,4-dinitrophenol (20-100 mg/L), on the degradation efficiency was also investigated.
Results: After 75 minutes of sonophotocatalytic processing, complete degradation of 2,4-dinitrophenol (20mg/L) was achieved with catalyst dosage of 0.5 g/L, pH of 9.0, and US intensity of 200 W/m2. Kinetic studies indicated that the sonophotocatalytic degradation process followed a first-order kinetic model. The results of radical scavenging experiments confirmed that HO° and O2˚- radicals are the main oxidative species involved in the degradation of 2,4-dinitrophenol. Furthermore, the reuse of the catalyst for five consecutive tests showed a slight decrease in removal efficiency.
Conclusion: The results demonstrate that the sonophotocatalytic process, using the modified organic-mineral polymers with mixed Zink and Cobalt oxides catalyst, can be an effective method for removing 2,4-dinitrophenol from aqueous media.
Abbas Ali Moserzadeh, Gholamreza Nabi Bidhendi, Nasser Mehrdadi, Mohammad Javad Amiri,
Volume 17, Issue 1 (6-2024)
Abstract
Background and Objective: A high concentration of Hydrogen Sulfide in biogas is a major problem associated with anaerobic digestion of waste rich in sulfate. It disrupts the functional process and reduces the lifespan of biogas facilities. The micro-aerobic (MA) process is an alternative method for direct sulfurization.
Materials and Methods: The effect of sulfate loading (200, 500 and 700 mg/L) on H2S in biogas were investigated. Subsequently, the effect of MA process (0.88, 1.04, 1.34 NL/day) on H2S reduction in biogas production was evaluated. Additionally, oxidation-reduction potential (ORP) and pH were measured. Finally, under optimal conditions, the biogas volume and the content of CH4 and CO2 in biogas were determined.
Results: The results indicated that there were no significant differences in biogas volume production between the reactor fed with 200 mg/L sulfate and the control. However, the biogas production in reactors with 500 and 700 mg/L sulfate decreased to 4103 and 3929 mL, respectively. The H2S levels in control and reactors with 200, 500, 700 mg/L sulfate were 0.35, 0.46, 2.4, and 1.8%, respectively. In reactors with MA at rates of 0, 0.88, 1.04, 1.34 NL/day, the H2S levels were 1.95%, 0.9%, 0.4% and 0.1% (V/V) in biogas, respectively. The pH in reactor varied between 2.7 and 4.7, and the ORP was measured between -281 and -291 mV. Statistical analysis shows that no significant difference was observed between the average daily production of biogas with MA process of 0.88 and 1.04 NL/day. However, MA with 1.34 NL/day resulted in a decrease in biogas production.
Conclusion: The results indicated MA at a rate of 1.04 NL/day is a favorable option for the treatment of sulfate-rich urban wastewater sludge due to its efficiency in H2S removal.
Soudabeh Ghodsi, Mina Sheikh, Farzaneh Mohammadi, Mahnaz Nikaeen,
Volume 17, Issue 3 (12-2024)
Abstract
Background and Objective: The adverse health effects of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) have received significant attention in recent years. This study aimed to measure the concentration of PAHs associated with fine particles and assess the health risks posed by these compounds.
Materials and Methods: A total of 38 air samples were collected from the central part of Isfahan city using a particle sampler equipped with an inlet to capture particles smaller than 2.5 µm (PM2.5). The samples were analyzed using GC-MS, and molecular ratios were used to identify potential sources of PAHs. Additionally, a Monte Carlo simulation was employed to perform a probabilistic risk assessment of carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic effects of PAHs for two groups: children and adults.
Results: Out of the 16 priority PAH compounds, seven compounds were identified, with average concentrations ranging from 0.003 to 17.8 ng/m3. Molecular ratios indicated that pyrogenic sources were the main contributors to PAHs in the air. The median carcinogenic risk for children and adults was estimated to be 3.1×10-8 and 5.99×10-8, respectively. The median non-carcinogenic risk for PAH compounds was estimated at 3.08×10-1.
Conclusion: The probabilistic risk assessment revealed that the PAHs concentrations associated with fine particles do not pose a significant risk to exposed individuals. However, it is important to note that this study focused solely on the risk assessment of PAHs associated with fine particles. A comprehensive risk assessment of all PAHs present in the atmosphere is, therefore, recommended.
Seyed Khabat Naynava, Bahareh Lorestani, Mehrdad Cheraghi, Soheil Sobhanardakani, Behzad Shahmoradi,
Volume 17, Issue 3 (12-2024)
Abstract
Background and Objective: Fenitrothion is a phosphorus-based pesticide that enters water resources through various sources,including industrial wastewater and agricultural effluent. its non-biodegradability, which results from the formation of strong chemical complexes, advanced oxidation methods are required to remove it from environmental matrices. This study aimed to evaluate the performance of a magnetic graphene oxide nanocomposite functionalized with cerium dioxide in the removal fenitrothion from aqueous solution.
Materials and Methods: In this applied research, GO@Fe3O4@CeO2 was synthesized and subsequently used as a photocatalyst for the removal of Fenitrothion from aqueous solutions. Characterization of GO@Fe3O4@CeO2 was conducted using X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), Scanning Electronic Microscopy (SEM), SEM-EDX elemental analysis, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), and vibrating sample magnetometry (VSM) methods. The effects of various parameters, including pH (2-9), photocatalyst dosage (10-40 mg), and contact time (0-90 min), were assessed to determine their influence on fenitrothion removal efficiency.
Results: The results demonstrated that the removal efficiency increased up to 60 min contact time, 20 mg of photocatalyst. The optimal pH for fenitrothion removal was found to be 4. Additionally, kinetic analysis of the photocatalytic removal process indicated that it followed a pseudo first-order (PFO) model.
Conclusion: The GO@Fe3O4@CeO2 nanocomposite proved to be an effective and accessible photocatalyst for the removal of fenitrothion from industrial wastewater under UV light.
Sanaz Jafari, Amir Hossein Javid, Elham Moniri, Amir Hessam Hassani, Homayon Ahmad Panahi,
Volume 17, Issue 4 (3-2025)
Abstract
Background and Objective: Humic substances are a group of high molecular weight, heterogeneous organic macromolecules formed through biological and geochemical reactions. They are recognized as one of the main precursors of by-products in water treatment processes. Humic acid compounds create various issues in water and soil treatment industries, necessitating their effective removal from water sources. Due to their small size and their ability to separate environmental pollutants, magnetic nanoparticles are used in the treatment of toxic and hazardous pollutants and in remediating contaminated environments. This study aimed to investigate the removal efficiency of humic acid using a three-dimensional magnetic nanoadsorbent and to identify the optimal conditions for removal.
Materials and Methods: First, three-dimensional magnetic graphene oxide was synthesized, and then surface modification was carried out with allyl amine/allyl glycidyl ether. The characteristics of the synthesized magnetic nanoadsorbent were determined using field emission scanning electron microscopy and the surface charge zero point. The removal of humic acid from aqueous solutions on magnetic nanoadsorbent was assessed based on pH, nanoadsorbent dosage, contact time, and temperature, with optimal conditions identified using the Taguchi method. Additionally, the adsorption isotherms, kinetics, and thermodynamics of humic acid adsorption on the magnetic nanoabsorbent were determined, with data analyzed through linear regression and determination coefficients for isotherm comparisons. The reusability of the nanoadsorbent in the humic acid adsorption mechanism was also examined. Experimental studies was conducted on well water samples from Tehran and Manjilabad (Karaj).
Results: The analyses confirmed the structural characteristics and properties of the synthesized adsorbent. Optimal removal of humic acid was achieved at pH 6, an adsorbent dosage of 0.02 g, a contact time of 120 minutes, and a temperature of 25°C, resulting in a 98% removal efficiency. Results indicated that humic acid adsorption followed the Langmuir isotherm, with kinetics corresponding to a pseudo-second-order model, yielding correlation coefficients of 0.9969 and 0.9968, respectively. Thermodynamic data showed that humic acid adsorption by the nanoadsorbent is an endothermic and favorable process.
Conclusion: The use of this nanoadsorbent in removing humic acid from aqueous solutions can be considered as an efficient method. Magnetic nanoabsorbents offer the advantages of easy separation from suspensions using a magnetic field, potential recovery through various methods, and reusability.
Raziyeh Zandipak, Nader Bahramifar, Habibollah Younesi, Mohammad Ali Zolfigol,
Volume 17, Issue 4 (3-2025)
Abstract
Background and Objective: Dyes are significant pollutants that pose serious hazards to humans, animals and other organisms. They are not biodegradable through aerobic treatment processes, making their removal from industrial wastewater through photocatalytic processes essential. This research aimed to synthesize an imide-conjugated polymer photocatalyst for the first time and evaluate its effectiveness in removing Rhodamine B dye from aqueous solutions.
Materials and Methods: In this applied research, an imide conjugated polymer was synthesized and employed as a photocatalyst for the removal of Rhodamine B from aqueous solutions. The polymer was characterized using Scanning Electronic Microscopy (SEM), Transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Atomic force microscopy (AFM), X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), Thermogravimetric Analysis, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and Diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS) methods. The study also assessed the influence of variables, including pH (4-9), photocatalyst concentration (0.01-0.04 g/L), and contact time (0-120 min), on the removal efficacy of Rhodamine B.
Results: The findings indicated that removal efficiency increased to 99% at a contact time of 45 minutes and a photocatalyst concentration of 0.02 g/L. The optimal pH for Rhodamine B removal was found to be 7.
Conclusion: The imide conjugated polymer proved to be an effective and accessible photocatalyst for the removal of rhodamine B from industrial wastewater under visible light.
Hanieh Mirbolooki, Shahriar Mahdavi, Eisa Solgi, Babak Razdar, Mahboubeh Zarabi, Davoud Akhzari,
Volume 17, Issue 4 (3-2025)
Abstract
Background and Objective: Dyes are among the most widespread pollutants found in industrial wastewater. The aim of this study is to investigate the potential of vineyard wood waste as a green adsorbent for the removal of polyazo solophenyl dye from aquatic environments.
Materials and Methods: In this laboratory research, two forms of adsorbents modified with H₂SO₄ and NaOH were used. Data obtained from dye adsorption in synthetic solutions were fitted to isotherm, kinetic, and thermodynamic models, with all calculations performed using Excel software. Zeta potential analysis, along with FTIR, BET, and FESEM-EDS instrumental analyses, was conducted to determine the properties of the adsorbent. Additionally, the desorption rates of the adsorbents were analyzed.
Results: The results showed that the highest color removal efficiency for the adsorbent modified with H2SO4 was achieved at a contact time of 180 minutes and a reaction temperature of 50 °C, while for the adsorbent modified with NaOH, the highest efficiency was observed at a contact time of 105 minutes and a reaction temperature of 25 °C. For both adsorbents, the optimal pH was 4, and the optimal adsorbent dosage was 1 g. The adsorption data for both modified adsorbents followed the pseudo-second-order kinetic model, while the equilibrium data aligned with the Freundlich and Temkin isotherm models. The adsorption capacities were found to be 22.27 mg/g and 9.87 mg/g for the adsorbents modified with acid and base, respectively, under optimal conditions.
Conclusion: This study introduces a novel, low-cost adsorbent derived from natural waste for water pollution removal, transforming the current approach into a cost-effective and eco-friendly solution.
Naseh Babakhani, Soheil Sobhanardakani, Borhan Mansouri, Mehrdad Cheraghi, Bahareh Lorestani,
Volume 18, Issue 1 (5-2025)
Abstract
Background and Objective: Growing concerns exist regarding the impact of nanoparticles on organisms and environmental health. This study aimed to investigate the effects of silver and graphene oxide nanoparticles on the gill and intestinal tissues of guppy fish (Poecilia reticulata) during acute toxicity exposure.
Materials and Methods: The acute toxicity (LC50) for both nanoparticles was calculated over a 96-hour period using Probit software. Histopathological examination of the gill and intestinal tissues exposed to the nanoparticles was performed using the hematoxylin-eosin staining method. A semi-quantitative approach was employed to assess the severity of tissue damage.
Results: The LC50 values for silver nanoparticles, graphene oxide nanoparticles, and their combination were determined to be 2.6 mg/L, 65.2 mg/L, and 1.8 mg/L, respectively. Simultaneous exposure to these nanoparticles exhibited a cumulative acute toxicity effect on fish tissues, with the severity increasing progressively from 24 to 96 hours. Notable injuries included hyperplasia, fusion, and adhesion of secondary lamellae in the gill tissue, as well as villi fusion, structural expansion of villi, increased blood cell count, and erosion in the intestinal tissue of the fish.
Conclusion: Simultaneous exposure to silver and graphene oxide nanoparticles significantly increases the acute toxicity in guppy fish. This study highlights the need for further research to fully understand the implications of nanoparticle exposure across the food chain.
Farzaneh Borzabadi Farahani, Mahmood Alimohammadi, Jamshid Rahimi, Sanaz Khoramipour, Emad Dehghanifard,
Volume 18, Issue 2 (9-2025)
Abstract
Background and Objective: People spend over 90% of their time indoors, where air pollutant concentrations—including volatile organic compounds (VOCs)—are significantly higher than outdoors. Among these VOCs, benzene is particularly critical due to its carcinogenic properties. Phytoremediation offers a sustainable solution for removing such pollutants from indoor environments. This study evaluates the benzene-reduction efficiency of two ornamental plant species, Aglaonema ‘Silver’ and Chlorophytum comosum, under controlled temperature and humidity conditions.
Materials and Methods: The plants were exposed to two temperature levels (18°C and 24°C) and two relative humidity conditions (35% and 50%). Benzene was introduced into sealed chambers at concentrations of 1, 0.5, 0.25, and 0.125 µL/mL. After 12 hours of exposure, benzene reduction was quantified using gas chromatography.
Results: At 20°C and 35% RH, Aglaonema 'Silver' removed 96% of benzene, outperforming Chlorophytum comosum (38%). Removal efficiency depended on species, environmental conditions, and initial concentration. Predictive models (Eq. 2–3) correlated strongly with experimental data (R² > 0.9).
Conclusion: Aglaonema 'Silver' demonstrated superior benzene removal compared to Chlorophytum comosum under lower temperature and humidity conditions. Our findings highlight that selecting plant species adapted to specific environmental parameters can significantly improve phytoremediation effectiveness. Furthermore, the proposed model indicates that elevated temperature and humidity levels may enhance benzene removal efficiency by indoor plants.
Mahin Gholami, Seraj Bita, Mostafa Ghaffari,
Volume 18, Issue 3 (12-2025)
Abstract
Background and Objective: Heavy metals have become a major environmental and public health concern due to their entry into marine ecosystems and accumulation in aquatic organisms. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate the accumulation of cadmium, lead, chromium, zinc, copper, and nickel in the liver, gills, and muscle tissues of Platycephalus indicus.
Materials and Methods: Thirty-six fish were collected from the fish landing site on the Makoran coast and transported to the laboratory in ice-filled containers. After drying and digesting the samples with nitric acid, the concentrations of heavy metals were measured using an atomic absorption spectrometer. Two-way ANOVA and Tukey’s post hoc test in SPSS software were used to compare the concentrations of the analyzed heavy metals.
Results: The results showed that, except for lead, the highest concentrations of the studied metals were recorded in the liver tissue. A significant difference in zinc concentration was observed between the Chabahar, Gowatr, and Konarak regions and the other sampling sites (p < 0.05). Among the analyzed metals, zinc had the highest concentration, with an average of 27.66 mg/kg, while cadmium had the lowest, with an average of 0.029 mg/kg. Health risk analysis indicated that, except for lead and nickel in fish caught from Chabahar, the concentrations of the other metals in Platycephalus indicus were below the permissible limits recommended by international standards, including WHO, FDA, UKMAFF, NHMRC, and FAO.
Conclusion: According to the results, the liver serves as the primary site of heavy metal accumulation in Platycephalus indicus. The findings also indicate that lead and nickel concentrations in certain areas exceed permissible limits, potentially posing a risk to consumer health. These results underscore the need for enhanced monitoring of marine pollutants along the Makoran coastline.
Ramazanali Dianati Tilaki, Roghayeh Kaseb, Esmaeil Babanejad Arimi, Mohammad Dianati,
Volume 18, Issue 3 (12-2025)
Abstract
Background and Objective: Benzene is a carcinogenic volatile organic compound commonly found in polluted air. This study aimed to remove benzene from air using a TiO₂–Bi2O₃ composite photocatalyst immobilized on glass foam under ultraviolet (UV) light irradiation.
Materials and Methods: Glass foam coated with the TiO₂– Bi2O₃composite was placed in a quartz reactor, which was connected to an air pump inside a sealed glass chamber. A UV lamp (254 nm) was installed next to the reactor. Known volumes (µL) of benzene were injected into the chamber through a septum. When the pump was activated, benzene-contaminated air passed through the photoreactor. Benzene concentration was measured by collecting air samples from the chamber and analyzing them using a GC-FID device.
Results: XRD spectra and SEM images confirmed the presence of TiO₂ and Bi2O₃, while BET analysis verified the mesoporous structure of the composite photocatalyst. The surface adsorption of benzene by the composite was 15% and followed the Langmuir model. The process kinetics were first-order, and the removal efficiency decreased with increasing benzene concentration. At a benzene concentration of 39 ppm, the removal efficiency after 75 minutes of TiO₂ and UV irradiation was 75%, whereas for TiO₂– Bi2O₃ under similar conditions, the efficiency increased to approximately 90%.
Conclusion: Using a TiO₂– Bi2O₃ composite photocatalyst under UV-A irradiation improved benzene removal efficiency by about 15% compared with TiO₂alone.
