Coal fly ash (FA) was treated by hydrothermal activation with sodium hydroxide solution at different concentrations to optimize the conversion method. Zeolite of the sodium type is prepared from coal ...FA by 1, 1.5, and 3 mol/L sodium hydroxide solutions (ZE1, ZE1.5, and ZE3). These adsorbents’ morphology, crystal structure, scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform (FT)-IR spectra, cation exchange capacity (CEC), specific surface area and pore volumes, and pHpzc were determined. An adsorption experiment was performed to evaluate the effects of contact time, pH, temperature, and coexistence. From the results, the values of CEC and specific surface area of prepared samples was in the order ZE3 < ZE1.5 < ZE1. The similar trends were observed in lead ions adsorption. In addition, our obtained data elucidate that the ion exchange with sodium ions in the interlayer ZE1 is one of the adsorption mechanisms of Pb2+ from water layer. Finally, lead ions adsorbed on ZE1 could be desorbed using a hydrochloric acid solution, showing that ZE1 could be reused as a water purification agent.
Background: Constipation causes substantial morbidity worldwide. Methods: This survey assessed constipation-related factors in Japan using the Japanese version of the Irritable Bowel Syndrome Quality ...of Life (IBS-QOL-J) instrument. We also examined the relationship among laxative type, Bristol Stool Form Scale (BSFS) scores, and treatment cost. Finally, we examined differences in satisfaction scores according to laxative type, treatment type, treatment cost, and BSFS score. Results: IBS-QOL-J was higher among those taking salt and/or irritation laxatives. Those paying >JPY 5000 (USD 50.00) had the lowest IBS-QOL-J. IBS-QOL-J was significantly lower among those with a BSFS score of 1 or 2 (severe constipation). Conclusions: This study’s findings suggest that a variety of factors, including treatment type and cost, are associated with defecation satisfaction. Those who had hard stools, used multiple laxatives, or spent more on treatment were less satisfied. Future strategies should target therapies that do not require multiple laxatives with lower treatment costs. Adequate defecation with a small number of appropriate laxatives at minimal cost appears to improve defecation satisfaction. It is desirable to identify appropriate laxatives and improve dietary habits and exercise routines. It is also necessary to stop blindly increasing laxative usage and properly diagnose constipation disorders such as anatomical abnormalities other than functional constipation.
A 46-year-old woman was admitted to the Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Division of Ehime University Hospital for swelling and pain in both breasts. Approximately 10 years earlier, in June 2010, ...she had undergone bilateral breast augmentation surgery with hyaluronic acid. Computed tomography showed a shadow under the pectoralis major muscle and a breast abscess in the pectoralis major due to a foreign body was suspected. Puncture was performed under ultrasound guidance, but a bacteriological culture of the abscess was negative. Surgery was performed under general anesthesia and a white cystic lesion covered with a thin capsule was found in the pectoralis major. A histopathological examination revealed a foreign body reaction, and biochemical analysis showed that a small amount of hyaluronic acid remained. In breast reconstruction using a large amount of highly cross-linked hyaluronic acid, there is a high possibility that foreign substances containing hyaluronic acid will persist, so careful interviews and examinations are necessary.
