Spironolactone versus placebo in patients undergoing maintenance dialysis (ACHIEVE): an international, parallel-group, randomised controlled trial
https://rebrand.ly/jiwg1zh The large coal production and consumption has caused environmental problems worldwide as a source of energy production with irreparable effects on soil, water, and the ecosystem. In addition, producing coal waste in coal washing plants and burying it intensifies the issue in nature. Due to the rising generation of coal waste from various sources, this study utilized several forms of coal waste obtained from a coal-washing plant in the production of both structural concrete (with a water-cement ratio of 0.54) and non-structural concrete (with a water-cement ratio of 0.7). The impact of coal waste on compressive strength (CS) was examined at curing ages of 7, 28, and 56 days. Various percentages of coal waste were substituted for both cement and sand. A superplasticizer was incorporated into the concrete mixtures to enhance the workability and achieve the desired slump and strength levels. According to the compressive strength findings, the ideal replacement level of sand with jig coal waste was 30 %. For 56-day-old specimens, the optimal substitution rates for cement with jig coal waste powder, flotation coal waste, and coal waste ash were found to be 10 %, 10 %, and 20 %, respectively. Notably, adding 10 % coal waste powder and coal waste ash increased compressive strength by 22 %, 23 %, and 44 % at 56 days. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pce.2025.103933
Optical characterization of NiO nanoparticle-decorated single-walled carbon nanotubes synthesized via ultrasonic-assisted sol-gel method
https://rebrand.ly/zlts97d The decoration of carbon nanotubes with metal oxide nanoparticles has been employed to enhance their intrinsic properties and expand their applicability across various technological fields. This study investigated the functionalization of single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) by treating them with a 3:2 mixture of sulfuric acid and nitric acid, which introduces oxygen-containing functional groups to enhance their dispersibility and reactivity. Nickel oxide nanoparticles (NiONPs) were synthesized and integrated onto the functionalized SWCNTs using an ultrasonic-assisted sol-gel technique, allowing uniform distribution. Then, the NiONP/SWCNT composite was evaluated for thermal stability and elemental composition via thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. Both field emission scanning electron microscopy and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy confirmed the successful decoration of NiONPs (particle size <20 nm, mean value of 7.87 ± 3.02 nm) on the SWCNTs. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy revealed characteristic peaks corresponding to NiO at 644 cm−1 as IR-active modes induced by NiO–SWCNT and Raman spectroscopy further verified the chemical bonding between NiONPs and SWCNTs. This shows shifts in the radial breathing mode and G bands of SWCNTs, indicative of strong interfacial chemical interactions. Optical analysis demonstrated that the NiO-SWCNT nanocomposite exhibited a reduced band gap compared to pure NiO nanoparticles but a broader band gap than intermediate-phase SWCNT configurations. In addition, UV–Vis spectroscopy identified a prominent absorption peak within the 600–800 nm wavelength range, aligning with the near-infrared (NIR) spectral region. This enhanced NIR absorption suggests improved light-capturing efficiency, which could significantly benefit applications in photocatalysis and optoelectronics. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ceramint.2025.06.181
Navigating the weight: The impact of obesity on gastrointestinal cancer surgery and strategies for improved outcomes
https://rebrand.ly/ou7e9ed Obesity significantly affects gastrointestinal cancer surgery outcomes by creating complex challenges throughout the preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative stages. This narrative review explores the intricate relationship between obesity and GIC surgery, highlighting the dual burden of obesity as a global public health issue and a determinant of surgical complications. The review aims to analyze physiological and technical hurdles, including limited visibility, prolonged operative times, increased perioperative risks, and adverse recovery outcomes associated with obesity. Evidence emphasizes the critical role of excess visceral fat, systemic inflammation, and insulin resistance in elevating surgical risks. Mitigation strategies involve preoperative nutritional optimization, use of advanced surgical technologies such as robotic-assisted and laparoscopic systems, and individualized postoperative care, encompassing early mobilization, tailored pain management, and close monitoring of metabolic parameters. Despite advancements, knowledge gaps remain, particularly regarding sarcopenic obesity and the long-term impact of preoperative dietary interventions. Future research should focus on refining minimally invasive techniques, integrating personalized medicine, and exploring innovative perioperative protocols to address obesity-related risks effectively. By fostering a multidisciplinary approach, this review underscores the necessity for targeted interventions to enhance outcomes and improve the quality of care for patients with obesity undergoing gastrointestinal cancer surgery. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.semcancer.2025.06.010
Application of ZnCl2-modified Biowaste to the removal of highly polluted dye: A case study of investigating the kinetics and adsorption isotherms
https://rebrand.ly/c8rv1mw Heavy metals (HMs) in soil are a big threat to environmental and agricultural sustainability. This review discusses the development of the nanobioremediation paradigm (an approach combining nanotechnology and microbiological processes) for the treatment of HM toxicity. Recent advances in nanoparticle (NP)-based approaches to their ability to improve microbial detoxification methods, such as adsorption, redox transformation, and enzyme activation forms of microbial detoxification are discussed. Key findings suggest that many engineered NPs (e.g., zero-valent iron, biogenic metal oxides) can enhance HM immobilization efficiencies and contour microbial performances and functions of the soil microbiome. Still, there are areas of uncertainty regarding NP-microbe-soil interactions, long-term ecotoxicological effects, and applicability at the field level that are critical to be discussed. Future research directions are advised to focus on the eco-designed NPs, optimizing microbial consortia specific to the soil, and interdisciplinary frameworks linking the laboratory methods and materials to the real-world applications. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jenvman.2025.126736