Three new polyphosphates were synthesized in good yields by reacting diethylenetriamine with the appropriate phosphate ester in ethanol under acidic conditions. The polyphosphate structures were determined using FT-IR and 1H-NMR spectroscopies, and their elemental compositions were confirmed by EDX spectroscopy. Polyphosphates were added to poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) at low concentrations to fabricate thin films. The PVC films were irradiated with ultraviolet light for long periods, and the effect of polyphosphates as the photostabilizer was investigated by determining changes in the infrared spectra (intensity of specific functional group peaks), reduction in molecular weight, weight loss, and surface morphology. Minimal changes were seen for PVC films containing polyphosphate compared to that for the blank film. In addition, optical, scanning electron, and atomic force microscopies were used to inspect the surface morphology of films. Undesirable changes due to photodegradation were negligible in PVC films containing additives compared to films containing no additives. In addition, the surfaces were smoother and more homogeneous. Polyphosphates, and in particular ones that contain an ortho-geometry, act as efficient photostabilizers to reduce the rate of photodegradation. Polyphosphates absorb ultraviolet light, chelate with polymeric chains, scavenge radical moieties, and decompose peroxide residues.
Background: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease causes permanent morbidity, premature mortality and great burden to the healthcare system. Smoking is it's most common risk factor and Spirometry is for diagnosing COPD and monitoring its progression.
Objectives: Early detection of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in symptomatic smokers’ ≥ 40years by spirometry.
Methods: A cross sectional study on all symptomatic smokers aged ≥ 40 years attending ten PHCCs in Baghdad Alkarkh and Alrisafa. Those whose FEV1/FVC was <70% on spirometry; after giving bronchodilator, were considered COPD +ve.
Results: Overall, airway obstruction was seen in
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