Chloride Concentration Research Articles

Arsenic exposure is associated with elevated sweat chloride concentration and airflow obstruction among adults in Bangladesh: a cross sectional study.

Arsenic is associated with lung disease and experimental models suggest that arsenic-induced degradation of the chloride channel CFTR (cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator) is a mechanism of arsenic toxicity. We examined associations between arsenic exposure, sweat chloride concentration (measure of CFTR function), and pulmonary function among 285 adults in Bangladesh. Participants with sweat chloride ≥ 60 mmol/L had higher arsenic exposures than those with sweat chloride < 60 mmol/L (water: median 77.5 µg/L versus 34.0 µg/L, p = 0.025; toenails: median 4.8 µg/g versus 3.7 µg/g, p = 0.024). In linear regression models, a one-unit µg/g increment in toenail arsenic was associated with a 0.59 mmol/L higher sweat chloride concentration, p < 0.001. We found that toenail arsenic concentration was associated with increased odds of airway obstruction (OR: 1.97, 95%: 1.06, 3.67, p = 0.03); however, sweat chloride concentration did not mediate this association. Our findings suggest that sweat chloride concentration may be a novel biomarker for arsenic exposure and also that arsenic likely acts on the lung through mechanisms other than CFTR dysfunction.

A Review on Geotechnical Properties of Soil Profile

The geotechnical properties and litho-stratigraphic soil profile of soils in Ikole area of Ekiti State were investigated from the analysis of results of laboratory tests on disturbed and undisturbed soil and water samples obtained from 3 borings. The investigation revealed a subsurface stratification made up of reddish brown granitic clayey sand from existing ground level to a depth of 9m to 12.0m. This is underlain by a layer of mottled, brown, decomposed micaceous sand to a depth of 16.5m - 18m immediately after which are layers of mottled grey, decomposing quartzite sand to about 18.0m to 19.0m depth. This is further underlain by fragments of freshly weathered granitic rock to the termination depth of 19.5m. The consistency limits indicate LL of 44 – 58% and PL of 18 – 26% while the quick undrained triaxial tests indicate undrained cohesion within the range (128.4 - 157) kN/m2 and undrained angle of internal friction (15.0 - 20.0)0. Groundwater was encountered between 6.5m to 7.5m below the existing ground level during the course of soil exploration. The water in the area has pH values of 5.79 to 7.05, the chloride content values range between 12.0mg/l and 16.0mg/l while sulphate content varies from 6.12mg/l to 7.10mg/l.

Assessment of the water and mass balance in the landfill body by modelling using the example of the Dubna city landfill

To predict the migration of pollutants in groundwater from the landfill site, it is necessary to know the infiltration rate and the concentration of pollutants in the moisture entering the groundwater level below the landfill. It is shown that the HELP program for calculating moisture transport in the unsaturated zone can be used to estimate the infiltration rate by the example of the municipal solid waste in Dubna, To estimate chloride ion concentration in the leachate entering the groundwater level, the VS2DT program for calculating the transport of pollutants with moisture in the unsaturated zone can be used. It is shown how uncertainty and insufficiency of information about the landfill site affects the estimation of these parameters, in what cases it is possible to use information about a similar dump, how test calculations help to verify hypotheses of formation of groundwater pollution under the landfill. The ranges of infiltration rate and chloride ion concentrations in moisture entering the groundwater level under the landfill body obtained as a result of calculations of the water and mass balance of the landfill in Dubna were further used to calculate the chloride ion transport in groundwater.

Hydrothermal synthesis of nanostructured Zn2SnO4 ternary metal oxide semiconductor for toxic gas sensing application and its characterization study

Purpose The study aims to develop an inexpensive metal oxide semiconductor gas sensor with high sensitivity, excellent selectivity for a specific gas and rapid response time. Design/methodology/approach This study synthesized Zn2SnO4 nanostructures using a hydrothermal method with a 1 M concentration of zinc chloride (ZnCl2) as the zinc source and a 0.7 M concentration of tin chloride (SnCl4) as the tin source. Thick films of nanostructured Zn2SnO4 were then produced using screen printing. The structural properties of Zn2SnO4 were confirmed using X-ray diffraction, and the formation of Zn2SnO4 nanoparticles was verified by transmission electron microscopy. Scanning electron microscopy was used to analyse the surface morphology of the fabricated material, while energy dispersive spectroscopy provided insight into the chemical composition of the thick film. These fabricated thick films underwent testing for various hazardous gases, including nitrogen dioxide, ammonia, hydrogen sulphide (H2S), ethanol and methanol. Findings The nanostructured Zn2SnO4 thick film sensor demonstrates a notable sensitivity to H2S gas at a concentration of 500 ppm when operated at 160°C. Its selectivity, response time and recovery time were assessed and documented. Research limitations/implications The primary limitations of this research on metal oxide semiconductor gas sensors include poor selectivity to specific gases, limited durability and challenges in achieving detection at room temperature. Practical implications The nanostructured Zn2SnO4 thick film sensor demonstrates a strong response to H2S gas, making it a promising candidate for commercial production. The detection of H2S is crucial in various sectors, including industries and sewage plants, where monitoring this gas is essential. Social implications Currently, heightened global apprehension about atmospheric pollution stems from the existence of perilous toxic and flammable gases. This underscores the imperative need for monitoring such gases. Toxic and flammable gases are frequently encountered in both residential and industrial environments, posing substantial hazards to human health. Noteworthy accidents involving flammable gases have occurred in recent years. It is crucial to comprehend the presence and composition of these gases in the surroundings for precise detection, measurement and control. Thus, there has been a significant push for extensive research and development in diverse sensor technologies using various materials and methodologies to monitor and regulate these gases effectively. Originality/value In this research, Zn2SnO4 nanostructures were synthesized using a hydrothermal method with ZnCl2 at a concentration of 1 M for zinc and SnCl4 at a concentration of 0.7 M for tin. Thick films of nanostructured Zn2SnO4 were then fabricated via screen printing technique. Following fabrication, all thick films were subjected to testing with various toxic gases, and the results were compared to previously published data. The analysis indicated that the nanostructured Zn2SnO4 thick film sensor demonstrated outstanding performance concerning gas response, gas concentration, selectivity and response time, particularly towards H2S gas.

Corrosion behavior of ASTM A416 tendon steel in wet conditions under various chloride concentrations

This study examines the corrosion behavior of steel tendons for prestressed concrete (PSC) structures under varying chloride concentrations and [Cl-]/[OH-] ratios. Tendons were exposed to controlled wet conditions, with chloride concentrations ranging from 0.0 to 0.25 mol/L, and [Cl-]/[OH-] ratios from 0.3 to 0.9. Results showed significant corrosion even at low chloride levels, with corrosion current density escalating from "high-risk" to "severe" as chloride concentration increased. The study also found that complete grouting is critical, as tendons exposed to humid environments without proper protection corrode significantly, irrespective of the chloride content. The findings suggest that traditional "critical chloride content" concepts may not apply to PSC tendons, highlighting the need for meticulous grout quality control to prevent corrosion. This research provides essential insights into the factors influencing tendon corrosion, offering guidance for improving PSC durability.

Assessment of produced water from oil and gas field Gujar Khan, Punjab, Pakistan

This study was conducted to analyze the physiochemical and heavy metal concentrations in produced water of Missa Kaswal Oil field Gujar khan, Punjab, Pakistan. Produced water samples were collected from various locations points and analyzed for various parameters by using standard operation procedures. According to Pakistan Environmental Protection Agency, pH, temperature was noted with in permissible limit, total dissolved solids, chlorides, fluorides and oil and grease concentrations were found very high. The concentration of chloride and oil and grease were found several times higher as compared to Pak-EPA. Heavy metals results of the research samples are compared with Pakistan Environmental Protection Agency. From the results it was found that nickel (Ni), lead (Pb), manganese (Mn), zinc (Zn) and arsenic (As0 were within the permissible limits while chromium (Cr) concentration was observed in produced water above the permissible limits. So overall study concluded that wastewater which is released from oil and gas sector is highly polluted. So, it is strongly recommended that Pakistan Environmental Protection Agency should regular check and monitor that wastewater before releasing into the environment.

Impacts of alkaline washing pretreatment on municipal solid waste incineration fly ash (MSWI FA) and resulting geopolymers

The safe disposal and utilization of municipal solid waste incineration fly ash (MSWI FA) has emerged as a crucial challenge, primarily due to elevated levels of heavy metals and chlorides. In this study, the influence of key factors in different pretreatment methods on the physicochemical properties of MSWI FA was analyzed, and the effects and mechanism of different pretreatment methods on the resulting geopolymers were studied. Under the conditions of a liquid-solid ratio (L/S) of 7 mL/g, a rotational speed of 500 r/min, and a stirring time of 20 min, the alkali washing with 1 mol/L NaOH solution exhibited better effect than water washing. The total content of chlorides and the content of soluble chloride in AFA (MSWI FA with alkali washing) were 1.53 % and 0.85 %, respectively. Alkali washing had a greater influence on the migration of heavy metals from MSWI FA to filtrate than water washing. Meanwhile, alkaline washing exhibited better effect in calcium retention and sulfur removal. The pretreatment process enhanced the gel formation in geopolymers, subsequently exerting a significant influence on the compressive strength and leaching concentration of heavy metals. Thermogravimetric analysis showed the bound water content in AG (8.46 %) was the greatest in all simples, indicating that exerted the most pronounced impact on the gel formation during geopolymerization. And, the lower ratio of Si-O-Na to Si-O-T in AG (0.20) indicated a longer geopolymeric chains, which explained the higher compressive strength of geopolymers during the initial curing period. This article provides a new pretreatment method to promote the resource utilization of MSWI FA.

Green Hydrogen Production From Non-Traditional Water Sources: A Sustainable Energy Solution With Hydrogen Storage and Distribution.

Green hydrogen development plays an essential role in creating a sustainable and environmentally conscious society while reducing reliance on traditional fossil fuels. Proton Exchange Membrane Water Electrolysers (PEMWEs), are sensitive to water quality, with various impurities impacting their efficiency, the quality of the hydrogen produced, and the device's lifespan. High-purity water is required for PEM electrolyzers; Type II water, which is required for commercial electrolyzers, must have a resistivity greater than 1 MΩ cm, sodium, and chloride concentrations less than 5 μg/L, and total organic carbon (TOC) content less than 50 parts per billion. The majority of electrolyzers operate on freshwater, or total dissolved solids (TDS) <0.5 g/kg, whereas brackish, rainwater, wastewater, and seawater have TDSs of 1-35 g/kg, 0.01-0.15 g/kg, 0.5-2 g/kg, and 35-45 g/kg, respectively. This critical review offers, for the first time, a comprehensive overview of relevant impurities in operating electrolyzers and their impact. The findings of this study indicate that electrolysis-based H2 processes are promising options that contribute to the H2 production capacity but require improvements to produce larger competitive volumes. In addition, the main challenges and opportunities for generating, storing, transporting, and distributing hydrogen, as well as large-scale adoption are discussed.

Exploring the impact of rice husk biochar on oxidative mechanisms and salt stress tolerance in lettuce plants

Salt stress, which impairs plant growth and induces oxidative stress, presents a major challenge in agriculture. In response, biochar has emerged as a promising soil amendment, capable of enhancing plants’ stress tolerance mechanisms. This study investigated the impact of rice husk biochar (RBC), derived from rice husks, on enhancing salt stress tolerance in lettuce plants grown under greenhouse conditions. Molecular and chemical characterization of the biochar samples was performed using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Raman spectroscopy. Salinity reduced the fresh and dry weights of the plants from 25.0 g plant−1 and 1.83 g plant−1 to 20.4 g plant−1 and 1.42 g plant−1, respectively. The application of RBC recovered the growth decline caused by salinity, increasing the fresh and dry weights of the plants to 28.1 g plant−1 and 1.83 g plant−1, respectively. While the concentrations of sodium and chloride in plants decreased with RBC application, potassium and silicon concentrations significantly increased. As a result of salt stress, hydrogen peroxide levels (H2O2) increased in plant tissues, and a decrease in H2O2 levels was observed with an increase in superoxide dismutase, catalase, and ascorbate peroxidase activities. Consequently, RBC proved to be effective in enhancing salt tolerance in lettuce plants. In conclusion, while RBC demonstrates significant potential for enhancing salt tolerance, its successful application depends on several factors such as biochar dosage, application method, soil type, and plant species, underscoring the need for further research to elucidate the mechanisms at play and optimize its use for sustainable soil management in saline conditions.

Assessment of Shallow Wells of Public Importance in Selected Areas of Ekiti State Capital City, Ado Ekiti, Nigeria

ABSTRACTGroundwater is one of the main sources of public water supply all over the world. This study assessed hand‐dug wells of economic importance in selected areas of Ado Ekiti in relation to terrain characteristics. A total of 15 wells were randomly sampled with replicates from 5 densely populated parts of the study area. Water samples collected were processed and analyzed in the laboratory using established scientific methods. Results showed that physicochemical characteristics of the sampled groundwater compared favorably with the standard for drinking water, except for phosphate (PO43−) concentration, which was above the permissible limit of 0.1 mg/L. Moreover, while lead (Pb2+) was within the acceptable limits of 0.001 mg/L, cadmium (Cd2+) and iron (Fe2+) mean values of 0.01 and 16.723 mg/L were above the permissible limits of 0.003 and 0.03 mg/L, respectively. All the samples analyzed were found to contain total coliforms. Piper diagram indicates prevalence of chloride anion facies and a small portion of sulfate with no carbonate ions. There was no dominant water type among the cations. The chemical makeup mainly showed the prevalence of strong acids (Cl−) and slightly alkaline earth elements (Ca2+). The Schoeller plot suggests the dominance of calcium and elevated chloride concentrations in comparison to other ions. The water quality index indicated widespread pollution in most of the sampled water, showing that the shallow wells are not suitable for drinking purposes except in Adebayo and Erifun axis as expected. The study revealed terrain's influence and unprofessional construction of wells. A holistic water safety plan is imperative in the area and thus recommended.

Engineering decentralized electrodisinfection to sustain consistent chlorine generation under varying drinking water chloride content

In situ electrochlorination can offer an efficient and feasible solution to enable decentralized water disinfection. Unfortunately, there has been only a limited number of studies exploring single-pass flow cell systems with representative flowrates used at household level, particularly under varying chloride concentrations. This work aims to assess anode materials in a single pass and examine the impact of cross velocity, current density, and chloride concentration on various responses such as chlorine production and energy consumption. The primary objective is to determine whether the flow cell can achieve desirable chlorine levels under consistent operation while chloride content of water varies. Chlorine (Cl2/HOCl/OCl−), chlorine dioxide (ClO2) production, and toxic oxyanions (ClO3−, ClO4−) were assessed in a single pass setup utilizing different representative anodes including Ti/RuO2, Ti/IrO2, and Boron-doped diamond. Among these materials, the Ti/RuO2 anode emerged as the most suitable for effective chlorine generation while minimizing the formation of ClO3− and ClO4−. The performance of in situ electrochlorination using the Ti/RuO2 anode in the flow cell revealed that cross velocity exerted the most significant influence on chlorine generation, while chloride content and current density primarily impacted energy consumption. Optimization of the operating parameters illustrated that stable chlorine concentrations ranging from 2 to 4 mg L−1 could be maintained even with significant fluctuations in chloride concentration from 50 to 250 mg L−1, resulting in a daily energy consumption of less than 0.07 kWh per treated volume of 634 L (i.e., < 0.11 Wh L−1). These experimental findings hold promise for advancing electrodisinfection systems to higher technological readiness level.

The influence of salt reduction with encapsulated oleoresins on the quality of mayonnaise, mustard, and ketchup.

Mayonnaise, mustard, and ketchup are table sauces enjoyed worldwide, adding flavour and texture to many dishes. However, these products often contain high sodium content, which contributes to health issues such as high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease. To address these concerns, reducing salt content in the sauces has become a significant goal for both manufacturers and consumers. This study investigates the effects of three formulations of microencapsulated (ME) oleoresins (F1, F2, and F3), derived from aromatic plants and spices, on the mineral content, physical-chemical properties, colour, and sensory profiles of mayonnaise, mustard, and ketchup. The addition of ME ingredients resulted in significant reductions in salt content across all sauces, with reductions up to 50% in mayonnaise, 45% in mustard, and 52% in ketchup, aligning with EU sodium guidelines and allowing for a "reduced Na/NaCl content" nutrition claim. Potassium levels in mustard and ketchup were sufficient to support health claims related to blood pressure maintenance, while chloride content was reduced in ME formulations, better aligning with dietary reference values. Physical-chemical analysis revealed that ME ingredients had minimal impact on parameters like pH, lipid oxidation, and viscosity, although significant differences were observed in specific areas, such as the consistency of ketchup and chloride content in mustard and ketchup. The use of inulin, as a carrier agent, helped maintain the sauces rheological properties. Mustard showed the most similarity to the control in terms of physical-chemical parameters. Colour analysis indicated minimal changes in mayonnaise, moderate changes in mustard, and significant differences in ketchup, particularly with the ME-F3 formulation, where the light-yellow ME ingredients had a pronounced effect on the darker sauce. Despite these differences, the sensory analysis demonstrated that the overall sensory profiles of the ME formulations were similar the like control for all sauces. Mayonnaise showed the closest resemblance, while mustard had slightly lower scores in flavour and saltiness. Ketchup followed the same trend as mayonnaise, with no significant sensory differences compared to the control. These findings suggest that ME ingredients can be effectively used in condiment reformulation to achieve significant salt reduction without compromising sensory qualities, while also supporting health-related claims. By incorporating ME-based salt reduction strategies and exploring low-sodium alternatives, consumers can continue to enjoy their favourite sauces while minimising sodium intake. Embracing these changes not only benefits personal health but also aligns with the industry's commitment to offering more nutritious options.

Drying-Wetting Correlation Analysis of Chloride Transport Behavior and Mechanism in Calcium Sulphoaluminate Cement Concrete.

In response to rising CO2 emissions in the cement industry and the growing demand for durable offshore engineering materials, calcium sulphoaluminate (CSA) cement concrete, known for its lower carbon footprint and enhanced corrosion resistance compared to Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC), is increasingly important. However, the chloride transport behavior of CSA concrete in both laboratory and marine environments remains underexplored and controversial. Accordingly, the chloride ion transport behaviors and mechanisms of CSA concrete in laboratory-accelerated drying-wetting cyclic environments using NaCl solution and seawater, as well as in marine tidal environments, were characterized using the rapid chloride test (RCT), X-ray diffraction (XRD), mercury infiltration porosimetry (MIP), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The results reveal that CSA concrete accumulates more chloride ions in NaCl solution than in seawater, with concentrations 2-3.5 times higher at the same water-cement ratio. Microscopic analysis indicates that calcium and sulfate ions present in seawater facilitate the regeneration of ettringite, thereby increasing the density of the surface pore structure. The hydration and repair mechanisms of CSA concrete under laboratory conditions closely resemble those in marine tidal conditions when exposed to seawater. Additionally, this study found that lower chloride ion concentrations and pH levels inhibit the formation of Friedel's salt. Therefore, laboratory experiments with seawater can effectively simulate CSA concrete's chloride transport properties in marine tidal environments, whereas NaCl solution does not accurately reflect actual marine conditions.

Mathematical Modeling of Sorptive Extraction of Lithium Chloride from Lithium-containing Brine of the Aral Sea Region

Introduction The article presents the results of chemical and physicochemical analysis of initial lithium-containing hydromineral raw materials and sorbent based on bentonite clay with titanium oxide addition. Methods It is established that the mineral is montmorillonite group and kaolinite according to the results of the analysis of the microstructure and elemental composition of bentonitic clay of the Darbazinsky deposit. Brine is characterized by the change of lithium chloride content in the range of 403- 1001 mg/l. Physical and mechanical characteristics of the obtained sorbents based on bentonite clay and titanium oxide additive are characterized by a high mechanical strength of 5.31 MPa, density of up to 2,6 g/cm3, and specific surface area of 1572 cm2/g. The technological parameters of sorption extraction of lithium chloride from lithium-containing hydromineral raw materials were optimized using the system analysis “STATISTICA” developed by StatSoft company. It is established that to increase the rate of lithium chloride extraction from brine, it is necessary to maintain the rate of brine flow within 8 l/min at maximum humidity of solution output up to 43g/m3 on the basis of the obtained volumetric graphical dependencies. Results The microstructure of the used sorbents with titanium oxide addition up to 20% is characterized by the predominance of lithium chlorides, which are represented by heap-shaped, prismatic crystals. Conclusion The maximum amount of lithium chloride in the form of clusters of light-white crystals of tabular shape on the surface of the sorbent is observed at increasing the content of titanium oxide up to 40%.

Mechanical properties and chloride resistance of ultra-high-performance seawater sea-sand concrete with limestone and calcined clay cement (UHPSSC-LC3) under various curing conditions

Although the application of ultra-high performance seawater sea-sand concrete with limestone calcined clay cement (UHPSSC-LC3) provides a promising solution for sustainable marine structures, research on the mechanical properties of UHPSSC-LC3 is quite limited, and no research has been conducted on its chloride resistance performance. In this study, the effect of four curing regimes (i.e. standard curing, 20 °C seawater curing, 40 °C fresh water curing, and 80 °C fresh water curing) on the compressive and flexural strength of UHPSSC-LC3 is experimentally investigated. Rapid chloride migration test and chloride titration test are conducted to determine the chloride diffusion and distribution of UHPSSC-LC3, considering the effects of curing conditions and calcined clay (CC) dosage. In addition, XRD analysis is performed to show the differences in the composition of UHPC, UHPSSC, and UHPSSC-LC3. The obtained results demonstrate that UHPSSC-LC3 attains higher mechanical strength than UHPC and UHPSSC under various curing conditions. The incorporation of LC3 makes the free chloride concentration of UHPSSC-LC3 close to that of UHPC, especially when the heated water curing is applied. The free chloride concentrations of UHPSSC- LC3 cured with 40 °C and 80 °C water are only 10.1 % and 2.9 % higher, respectively, than that of UHPC cured under standard condition. Besides, UHPSSC-LC3 achieves the lowest chloride ion diffusion rate, which is 40.4 % lower than that of UHPSSC, due to the denser matrix resulting from the carboaluminate products and the pozzolanic effects of the calcined clay. Furthermore, the application of heated water curing regimes is recommended for UHPSSC-LC3 when the early strength and chloride resistance are the main concerns.

Gaps in predicting water quality impacts of unbound air-cooled blast furnace slag utilized for roadway construction

Air-cooled blast furnace slag (ACBFS) is often used as road construction aggregate. Several incidences of adverse environmental effects have been reported in Indiana where unbound slag has been used. The aggregates that caused issues in the field had been previously approved for use by passing State of Indiana standard slag leaching procedures. The study goal was to test several hypotheses posed to the Indiana Department of Transportation and authors by the industry about slag leaching, and to better understand water quality impacts. Ten slags from two suppliers underwent leaching procedures adopted by two U.S. states, but additional test procedures and material and leachate chemical characterization were also conducted to better interpret results. Aggregates varied in size and age (24 h to 2 years old). Like prior literature reports, the chemical composition among the slag samples was similar. However, water quality impacts observed at the bench-scale in this study differed substantially across the slags. Results were consistent with those previously reported at Indiana field sites, but not with literature reported results from standardized leaching tests (i.e., TCLP, percolation, etc.). In the present study, no relationship was found between slag age and leachate composition. Leachate pH, conductivity, and color levels exceeded thresholds of regulatory and aquatic toxicity significance. For one slag, leachate pH reached 12.9, but the effluent was colorless. During both stagnation and rinsing tests, aqueous chloride, sulfate, and zinc concentrations sometimes exceeded regulatory water quality and aquatic toxicity levels. Repeated rinsing of the slag resulted in water conductivity and sulfate concentration differences. To better understand and predict the impacts of unbound ACBFS, additional fundamental studies and field investigations are recommended. Unbound ACBFS is not recommended for use near environmentally sensitive areas, drinking water sources, habituated areas, and where it may have water contact (i.e., waterways, wetlands, reservoirs, and groundwater).

CO2 uptake of cement by-pass dust via direct aqueous carbonation: an experimental design for time and temperature optimisation

The compositional characteristics of cement by-pass dust (CBPD), specifically its alkalinity and salt content, present significant limitations to its reinsertion in cement production. Furthermore, these characteristics give rise to considerable concerns regarding its disposal. The present study investigated the potential for treating CBPD through the application of a direct aqueous carbonation technique. The aim is to assess carbon capture potential of the material and to investigate the impact of the mineralisation process on its composition. The process was conducted under atmospheric pressure, at low temperature (20–60 °C) and for short duration (20–60 min). Different CO2 quantification techniques were employed to assess experiments efficiency and replicability of the adopted quantification techniques. A Design of Experiment was developed to identify the optimum carbonation conditions in terms of time and temperature. The conditions for CO2 content maximisation resulted in a fair agreement with the prediction of the response surface methodology. High values in CO2 uptake (25.1%) and carbonation degree (82%) were achieved, outperforming previous literature studies. Moreover, the mineralisation process significantly reduces the chloride content of CBPD, paving the way for its adoption as a supplementary cementitious material in integrated industrial processes for carbon capture and utilisation.

Analysis of the environmental state of the Sarata River in Odesa Region

The relevance of the study is dictated by the need to preserve the water resources of southern Ukraine and ensure their good environmental condition. In the context of military operations, Odesa Region plays a key role in providing the country with agricultural products because of significant damage incurred to agricultural lands of Mykolaiv and Kherson Regions in the course of military actions. Hence the role of irrigation and the need to restore and modernize irrigation systems are growing. One of fresh water reservoirs of Odesa Region is Sasyk reservoir (artificially created as part of the estuary) which accumulates fresh water supplied from the Danube. The Kogylnyk and the Sarata rivers flow into the northern part of the reservoir and can worsen its hydroecological condition. The subject of the study: pollution of the rivers across North-Western Black Sea Coast by chemicals. The object of the study: the environmental state of the Sarata River. The study is aimed at assessing the environmental state and environmental risks of chemical pollution of the Sarata River. The water quality assessment was performed based on a modified version of water pollution index (WPI). Biogenic substances (ammonium nitrogen, nitrite nitrogen, nitrate nitrogen) were identified as the main pollutants. The content of chlorides and sulfates is also significant. The assessment of the pollution risks by biogenic substances is based on calculations of the statistical probit function. The source materials of the research include hydrochemical observations made by the State Agency of Water Resources of Ukraine for the period from 2007 to 2023 in the upper reaches of the Sarata River - village of Miniailivka (94 km from the mouth, near the border with Moldova) and in the lower reaches of the Sarata River - village of Bilolissya (14.3 km from the mouth). The analysis of probability of exceeding the MPC for fishery use indicated that, in terms of nitrite ions and nitrate ions, such probability is higher in the upper basin than in the lower one. According to other indicators, the probability of exceeding the MPC by pollutants is either almost the same or slightly increased in the lower reaches. The assessment of water quality according to the modified WPI (dissolved oxygen, BOD5, ammonium, nitrite and nitrate ions, phosphates) showed that the water quality in the Sarata River mainly belongs to the "moderately polluted" and "polluted" classes. According to the environmental risk indicators, it was established that the possibility of a "high" risk of contamination by biogenic substances does prevail. Its probability is 52.9% for the upper reaches and 60% for the lower reaches. The "high" level of class IV pollution (ER=0.60-0.79) corresponds to an "unsatisfactory" environmental condition. The probability of achieving the class of a "good" environmental condition (class II, ER=0.20-0.39) is quite small: 17.6% in the upper reaches and only 6.67% in the lower reaches. Thus, the Sarata River belongs to such rivers, the natural properties of which underwent significant changes as a result of sewage delivery from "Sarata Komunservis" utility enterprise, settlement of Sarata. Contaminated waters are unsuitable for drinking, household and sports purposes, as well as for fish farming. The quality of the Sarata River's water has a negative impact on the environmental state of Sasyk reservoir.

Latent Trajectories of Cerebral Perfusion Pressure and Risk Prediction Models Among Patients with Traumatic Brain Injury: Based on an Interpretable Artificial Neural Network

This study aimed to characterize long-term cerebral perfusion pressure (CPP) trajectory in traumatic brain injury (TBI) patients and construct an interpretable prediction model to assess the risk of unfavorable CPP evolution patterns. TBI patients with CPP records were identified from the Medical Information Mart for the Intensive Care (MIMIC)-IV 2.1, eICU Collaborative Research Database (eICU-CRD) 2.0 and HiRID dataset 1.1.1. The research process consisted of two stages. First, group-based trajectory modeling (GBTM) was used to identify different CPP trajectories. Second, different ANN algorithms were employed to predict the trajectories of CPP. A total of 331 eligible patients' records from MIMIC-IV 2.1 and eICU-CRD 2.0 were used for trajectory analysis and model development. Additionally, 310 patients' data from HiRID were used for external validation. The GBTM identified 5 CPP trajectory groups, group 1 and group 5 were merged into class 1 based on unfavorable in-hospital mortality. The best 6 predictors were invasive systolic blood pressure coefficient of variation (ISBPCV), venous blood chloride ion concentration, PaCO2, PT (Prothrombin Time), CPP coefficient of variation (CPPCV), and mean CPP. Compared with other algorithms, Scaled Conjugate Gradient (SCG) performed relatively better in identifying class 1. This study identified 2 CPP trajectory groups associated with elevated risk and 3 with reduced risk. PaCO2 might be a strong predictor for the unfavorable CPP class. The ANN model achieved the primary goal of risk stratification, which is conducive to early intervention and individualized treatment.

Chitosan/Sodium Alginate Hydrogel for the Release of Berberine as an Algae Suppressant: RSM Optimization and Analysis of Sustained Release Characteristics.

In this study, we used chitosan/sodium alginate hydrogel as a carrier to prepare berberine sustained-release capsule materials that can inhibit algae for a long time and safely. The preparation conditions of the material were optimized by the response surface method, and the optimized capsule material was characterized and the sustained release characteristics were analyzed to study the change of the algae inhibition effect of the material within 30 days. The results showed that the optimum preparation parameters of the material were 0.54% chitosan content, 2.46% sodium alginate content and 1.09% anhydrous calcium chloride content by response surface optimization design, which was consistent with the parameters set by each factor at the central point. The algae inhibition rate of the material under this preparation condition was 93.75 ± 1.01%, which was similar to the predicted value. The release characteristics analysis showed that the material continuously released up to 90% of berberine within 24 days, and its release characteristics were sustained release after burst release, with good sustained release effect. The results of material characterization showed that chitosan/sodium alginate hydrogel could effectively load berberine and was beneficial to the loading and release of berberine. The results of algae inhibition experiments showed that low concentration materials could control the outbreak of cyanobacterial blooms in a short time, while under high concentration conditions, the materials could inhibit Microcystis aeruginosa efficiently and for a long time.