Total Salt Research Articles

Relationship Between Salt Accumulation and Soil Structure Fractals in Cotton Fields in an Arid Inland Basin

The relationship between soil structure and salt accumulation is unclear; thus, experiments on salt accumulation under different soil structures were conducted in cotton fields in arid areas of northwest China. Thirty-nine sets of soil samples were collected from the 0 to 180 cm profile of three experimental areas. The total salt content of the soil extracts and the particle size distribution of the soil samples were determined using a JENCO TDS and a laser particle size analyzer, respectively, and the fractal dimension of the soil structure was obtained using fractal theory. Pearson’s correlation analysis and Tukey’s test (p < 0.01) were used to analyze the correlation between soil salinity, soil particle size distribution, and fractal dimensions in the three profiles. The results showed soil salinity accumulation was affected mutually by soil texture and soil structure, and soil salinity tended to accumulate in fine-grained soil. The soil fractal dimension (D) could indicate soil texture and quantify soil salinity content. When the sand content was more than 50%, there was a significant positive correlation between the soil fractal dimension and soil salinity (correlation coefficient R = 0.943). The results provide valuable insights into cotton production in arid areas.

Solid–Liquid Phase Equilibria of the Aqueous Quaternary System Rb+, Cs+, Mg2+//SO42− - H2O at T = 323.2 K

Sulfate-type salt lakes constitute over half of the total salt lakes in China and are rich in rare elements, such as rubidium and cesium. However, the complex interactions between ions make the separation and extraction process quite challenging. To address this, phase equilibrium studies were conducted on the sulfate system containing rubidium, cesium, and magnesium. Specifically, the phase equilibria of the aqueous quaternary system Rb+, Cs+, Mg2+//SO42− - H2O at 323.2 K were investigated using the isothermal dissolution method. The solubility, density, and refractive index of the system were experimentally measured. The results indicate that the system at 323.2 K belongs to a complex type with the formation of one solid solution (Rb, Cs)2SO4 and two double salts (Rb2SO4·MgSO4·6H2O, Cs2SO4·MgSO4·6H2O). The corresponding phase diagram consists of four quaternary invariant points, nine univariate curves, and six crystallization regions. Among these, the crystalline region for Cs2SO4·MgSO4·6H2O is the largest, while that for the single salt Cs2SO4 is the smallest. Moreover, the crystalline regions for the double salt and solid solutions are significantly larger than those for the single salt, highlighting the difficulty in separation of valuable single salts. A comparison of multi-temperature phase diagrams from 298.2 K to 323.2 K reveals that the crystalline form of MgSO4 changes from MgSO4·7H2O (298.2 K) to MgSO4·6H2O (323.2 K). As the temperature increases, the phase regions for Rb2SO4, Cs2SO4, (Rb, Cs)2SO4, and Cs2SO4·MgSO4·6H2O expand, while the phase region of Rb2SO4·MgSO4·6H2O contracts, indicating that the single salts (Rb2SO4, Cs2SO4) are more readily precipitated at higher temperature, which provides theoretical guidance for the future production and separation of Rb, Cs, and Mg from sulfate-type salt lakes.

Development and characterization of mesoporous silica-MgSO4-MgCl2 binary salt composites for low-grade heat storage in fluidized bed systems

Achieving nearly zero-energy buildings requires the efficient utilization and storage of renewable energy. Salt-hydrate-based thermochemical energy storage (TCES) systems are promising due to their high heat storage capacity and minimal seasonal heat loss. However, challenges remain in their commercialization and large-scale application. For instance, TCES systems using magnesium sulphate (MgSO4) provide low temperature lifts due to slow reaction kinetics. Incorporating deliquescent salts like magnesium chloride (MgCl2) can enhance sorption performance but may introduce stability issues such as agglomeration and decomposition. This study presents a novel binary-salt composite combining MgSO4 and MgCl2 within commercial mesoporous silica (CMS) to address these challenges and enhance overall performance. The binary-salt composite powder, with a particle size range of 150–300 μm, is well-suited for use in fluidized-bed reactors, where fast mass and heat transfer promote efficient moisture adsorption, prevent uneven temperature distribution, and reduce agglomeration. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) was employed to evaluate the water sorption and desorption behaviour of MgCl2-MgSO4@CMS binary-salt composites with a total salt content of 50 wt% and salt mixing ratios of 3:1, 1:1, and 1:3. The corresponding water sorption capacities were 0.95, 0.68, and 0.57 g/g, respectively. In comparison, the MgSO4@CMS single-salt composite showed a lower water adsorption capacity of 0.47 g/g and required temperatures exceeding 150 °C for complete regeneration. Reactor-scale experiments demonstrated that the MgCl2-MgSO4@CMS composite with a 1:1 salt mixing ratio could be fluidized at low gas velocities on the order of 10−2 m/s, achieving a maximum temperature lift of 24.7 °C and an energy density of 1018 kJ/kg during hydration at 80% relative humidity and 30 °C. Additionally, the binary-salt composite showed good cyclic stability with less particle agglomeration compared to the MgCl2@CMS single-salt composite.

Different characteristics of the soil in marmot habitats might be one of the factors that influcting Yersinia pestis prevalent in which than pikas.

Marmots are recognized as host animals for plague caused by Yersinia pestis infection. It is unclear that why plague prevalent in marmot rather than other rodents like pikas in the same habitats. This study aims to analyze the differences of the soil characteristics around marmots and pikas burrows to explore the soils factors impacting on different epidemic intensities of Yersinia pestis in these two rodents. Soil samples were collected from within and around marmot and pika burrows, as well as from the nearby areas not inhabited by them and Chinese baseline soil properties as control groups, in the Qilian Mountains of Gansu Province, China. The physicochemical properties and the bacterial 16S rRNA were measured to analyze the characteristics of soils from different groups. Subsequently, the data were analyzed using R studio. The analysis revealed that marmot habitats exhibited distinct soil characteristics, including lower organic matter and alkaline hydrolyzed nitrogen, but higher electrical conductivity and total soluble salts. And soil in marmot areas tended to have higher concentrations of nickel, chromium, and iron, also lower levels of zinc and selenium. Additionally, the alpha diversity of soil microorganisms in marmot habitats was significantly low. Simultaneously, redundancy analysis was conducted, which showed that the low alpha diversity of marmot-soil was influenced by its physicochemical properties. The alpha diversity of the soil was positively correlated with EC, TSS, Na, and Cr, etc., while it was negatively correlated with AHN, OM, Se, Zn, and Fe, etc. These characteristics in marmot habitats, including low levels of organic matter, alkaline hydrolyzed nitrogen, zinc, selenium, and bacterial alpha diversity, as well as high levels of electrical conductivity, total soluble salts, iron, and nickel, played a crucial role in the spread of plague. It was discovered that the unique characteristics of marmot-soils provided essential elements necessary for the survival of Yersinia pestis, including high levels of Fe and Ca, or facilitated the spread of plague. Thus, the transmission of the plague was facilitated.

The effect of season and agro-ecology on physicochemical properties of cow's raw milk in Central and North-Western Zone of Tigray, Ethiopia

Milk at a normal state has unique physical, chemical, and biological characteristics that are used as quality indicators. The quality of milk is influenced by many factors and the components of milk are very sensitive indicators for milk production practices. Season and agro-ecologies have influences on physicochemical properties of cow milk. Therefore, this research aimed to investigate the effect of season and agro-ecology on the physicochemical properties of cow's raw milk in Central and North-Western Zone of Tigray. The study was conducted in Aksum, Shire-Indaselassie, and Sheraro administrative towns. A two-stage sampling method was used to select both the study area and respondents. All towns in the Central and North-Western zones of Tigray were categorized into three agro-ecologies, and sample towns were purposively selected from each category based on accessibility and milk production potential. Sample respondents were then randomly selected from each agro-ecology. Agro-ecology categorization was based on altitude, temperature, and feeding practices, while seasons were classified according to rainfall and temperature. A total of 210 samples, comprising 35 samples from dairy farms and 35 samples from cafeterias within each agro-ecology, were analyzed to assess the physicochemical properties of cow milk across two different seasons. Physicochemical analysis including determination of fat, crude protein, solids not fat, density, lactose, salt, water added and freezing point was conducted in the laboratory of Mekelle University using Lacto scan, Bulgaria. The overall mean values of milk fat, solids-not-fat (SNF), protein, and lactose were 3.72 ± 0.12 %, 6.72 ± 0.17 %, 2.6 ± 0.08 %, and 3.72 ± 0.09 %, respectively. Specific gravity, salt content, water added, and freezing point exhibited mean values of 1.026 ± 0.001 g/ml, 0.53 ± 0.01 %, 19.33 ± 1.8 %, and −0.42 ± 0.01oC, respectively. Significant differences (p < 0.05) were observed in protein, solids-not-fat, lactose, and salt content among agro-ecologies, seasons, and sources of milk. Correlation analysis revealed positive correlations between specific gravity and solids-not-fat, protein, lactose, and total salt, while negative correlations were observed with water added and freezing point (p ≤ 0.01). In conclusion, the physical and chemical properties of cow's raw milk are influenced by agro-ecology, season, and the source of milk. Notably, milk adulteration, particularly with the addition of water, was more prevalent among cafeteria owners. Given the absence of established milk quality standards in Ethiopian conditions, it is imperative for the government to introduce quality standard measures, rules, and regulations to effectively control milk quality.

Carbon dioxide sequestration through mineralization from seawater: The interplay of alkalinity, pH, and dissolved inorganic carbon

Marine carbon dioxide removal technologies rely on the equilibration of the seawater with atmospheric CO2, where a pH increase can facilitate carbon dioxide removal either through increased absorption capacity of CO2, or precipitation of minerals. Here, we focus on explicitly defining the governing factors that influence seawater alkalinity with respect to CaCO3 mineralization and atmospheric CO2 uptake. We utilize an electrochemical setup and different water types, from near-shore Mediterranean seawater as well as Red Sea Salt water. The setup allows us to separate mineralization from alkalinity enhancement via an electrochemical membrane cell, and a second compartment with controlled environment, where the interplay of ion concentration, precipitation, pH, DIC concentration, and total alkalinity are evaluated. The effect of sparging additional carbon dioxide before, and after the precipitation of CaCO3 was evaluated while utilizing both a mild pH swing (from, ∼8.3 to ∼9.5), and a larger pH swing (from, ∼8.3 to ∼10.2). A thermodynamic model is presented defining the energy consumption to increase the pH, and the influence of Mg thereon is explicated. Furthermore, we detail theoretical aquatic chemistry simulations via PHREEQC to rationalize the observed intricate dynamics of the carbonate system in seawater. We end with a discussion of the implications of total alkalinity, pH, salt complexation, and carbon uptake capacity relevant to of all ocean alkalinity enhancement and marine based carbon dioxide removal systems, concluding that the carbon uptake capacity of water returned to the ocean must be verified in such technologies

Intermittent freshwater extraction and cold-water recharge for mitigating seawater intrusion in coastal aquifers

Decreasing groundwater temperature by freshwater extraction and cold-water recharge can mitigate seawater intrusion in coastal aquifers. However, the impact of frequently employed and easily executed intermittent well operations on this has been overlooked. This study numerically examines temperature and salinity distributions in coastal aquifers subject to intermittent freshwater extraction and cold-water recharge (IER) at an equal rate. Results show that IER maintains an equivalent effect on inhibiting seawater intrusion as the continuous method, while IER during cold seasons reduces operational time and cooling heat consumption. For instance, numerical test on a realistic aquifer shows that 90 d of IER could lead to a 75% decrease in operational time and a 29% reduction in cooling energy usage compared to the continuous method. The mitigation effectiveness depends on the averaged seaward hydraulic gradient, which is affected by heat storage reduction above the saltwater wedge. The cold-water plume from IER is convergently transported and discharged, creating a pronounced fluctuation of heat storage reduction and thereby resulting in a delayed periodic variation of the hydraulic gradient. As salt efflux is an integrated result of periodically changing hydraulic gradients, total salt mass exhibits a delayed and prolonged response to the variation of heat storage reduction. Sensitivity analyses show that a far recharge distance and reduced aquifer permeability increase the delay between heat storage reduction and total salt mass, and low recharge temperature facilitates seawater intrusion mitigation. This study demonstrates the importance of the intermittent method in inhibiting seawater intrusion and has implications for sustainable management of coastal groundwater resources.

Effects of brackish water irrigation with different exogenous salt concentrations on the growth and rhizosphere salinity of Lycium barbarum

To investigate the effects of different typical exogenous salt concentrations on total soil salinity and the growth of Lycium barbarum under brackish water irrigation, and to determine the salinity threshold of irrigated brackish water that is conducive to the normal growth of Lycium barbarum while mitigating soil salinity accumulation. Four typical exogenous salts (NaCl, CaCl2, NaHCO3, Na2SO4) were selected and set at four concentrations (0.1, 0.5, 2.0, 4.0 g L−1) to conduct a field crossover experiments in the downstream region of the Hetao Irrigation District. The results showed that in the same fertility period, the growth rates of new branches, ground diameter, and crown width first increased and then decreased with rising concentrations of NaCl, CaCl2, and Na2SO4, but showed an inverse relationship with NaHCO3 concentrations. Furthermore, increasing salt concentrations linearly reduced the yield of dry fruits from Lycium barbarum and led to a notable accumulation of total soil salts. Utilizing an experimental research approach, a comprehensive analysis of involving multiple growth indices, stable yield, and soil salinity control of Lycium barbarum revealed that optimal growth occurs at salt concentrations of 0.1–0.5 g L−1 for different water quality areas within the irrigation area; using the method of path analysis identified the total soil salt and crown width as the primary direct and indirect factors influencing the yield of Lycium barbarum. The results of this study provide scientific basis and significant theoretical support for the safe and rational utilization of brackish water and cultivation of Lycium barbarum in typical regions with varying saline water qualities of Hetao irrigation area.

Diffusion of radioactive waste elements from underground water and leachates of phosphate waste forms in pore solution of clay materials

Using through diffusion method at room temperature, migration of RW element simulators (P, Se, Br, Mo, Cs, U) in compacted samples of clay materials of various mineral compositions was studied during porous diffusion from model solutions: underground water and leachates of phosphate waste forms having a total salt content of up to 500 mg/L. Based on the results of experiments, effective diffusion coefficients and sorption distribution coefficients of elements in barrier materials were determined. Numerical models are proposed to describe diffusion transfer of selenium, cesium and uranium depending on porosity, mineral composition of materials, and concentration of elements in pore solution. Patterns of diffusion of elements from solutions of different salt composition were revealed.

Effects of Continuous Cropping on the Physiochemical Properties, Pesticide Residues, and Microbial Community in the Root Zone Soil of Lycium barbarum

Continuous cropping is a common obstacle limiting the high quality and yield of Lycium barbarum （wolfberry）. To clarify the response of soil characteristics of the wolfberry root zone to continuous cropping years, we systematically determined the physicochemical properties and pesticide residues of soils in the wolfberry root zone with different continuous cropping years. In addition, soil bacterial and fungal communities were characterized using high-throughput sequencing technology. The results were as follows： The content of total salt and imidacloprid in the root zone of wolfberry increased with increasing years of continuous cropping. Compared to that with 2 and 9 years, the total salt content in the root zone of wolfberry with 15 years of continuous cropping increased by 51.97% and 54.33%, respectively, and the imidacloprid content increased by 39.58% and 36.61%, respectively. Alkaline nitrogen and available potassium showed an increasing and then decreasing trend. Compared to that with 2 and 15 years, alkaline nitrogen and available potassium in the root-soil of wolfberry with 9 years of continuous cropping increased by 16.94%-28.09% and 18.31%-18.34%, respectively. The diversity and abundance of bacterial communities and the abundance of fungal communities were higher in the root-soil of wolfberry with 9 years of continuous cropping compared to that with 15 years of continuous cropping. In addition, the increase in continuous cropping years also increased the accumulation of harmful plant pathogens such as Pseudomonas, Arthrobacter, Actinomucor, and Trichoderma in the root zone of L. barbarum. Soil total salinity, organic matter, alkaline hydrolyzable nitrogen, and available potassium were the main factors influencing the distribution of bacterial communities. Soil alkaline hydrolyzable nitrogen, available potassium, and ammonium nitrogen were the main factors influencing the distribution of fungal communities. In addition, the soil bacteria in the root zone of L. barbarum were dominated by metabolic functions； in particular, amino acid metabolism, energy metabolism, and nucleotide metabolism were most abundant in the root soil of wolfberry with 9 years of continuous cropping, whereas the highest abundance of functional genes related to membrane translocation was found in the root-soil of wolfberry with 15 years of continuous cropping. The soil fungi were all dominated by saprophytic trophic types, followed by pathogenic cross-nutrients in the root zone of L. barbarum. In conclusion, long-term continuous cropping induced changes in the soil microenvironment in the root zone of L. barbarum, increased soil residues of harmful pesticides and the enrichment of plant pathogens, and reduced the diversity of soil bacterial and fungal communities. Therefore, it is necessary to control the rate of application of soil nutrients and pesticides in the management of L. barbarum and to carry out deep ploughing and deep tilling in good time, and the turnover of old plants in the cultivation of L. barbarum.

Soil Organic Matter and Bulk Density: Driving Factors in the Vegetation-Mediated Restoration of Coastal Saline Lands in North China

Coastal saline soils are an important soil resource that, when restored, can enhance arable land and preserve the natural ecology. With the aim of improving the use of coastal saline soils, we conducted a spot survey at Bohai coastal saline land to investigate the differences in soil properties between different vegetation types. The soil physical and chemical properties of various vegetation types, including Aeluropus sinensis, Imperata cylindrica, Tamarix chinensis, Lycium chinense, Hibiscus moscheutos, Helianthus annuus, Gossypium hirsutum, and Zea mays, were examined at two depth layers: 0–20 cm and 20–40 cm, and in two seasons, spring and autumn. The soil properties were compared with bare land as a control. The results indicated that the electrical conductivity, total soil salt content, sodium adsorption ratio, and bulk density of soils with vegetation cover were lower than those with bare land. On the other hand, soil pH, organic matter content, mean weight diameter, and saturated hydraulic conductivity were higher. The redundancy analysis results revealed a substantial positive correlation between soil pH, saturated hydraulic conductivity, water content, mean weight diameter, and organic matter content, as well as a significant positive correlation between soil electrical conductivity, total soil salt content, sodium adsorption ratio, and bulk density. Soil pH, saturated hydraulic conductivity, water content, mean weight diameter, organic matter content, and soil electrical conductivity, total soil salt content, sodium adsorption ratio, and bulk density were negatively correlated. The results of the structural equation model and variance decomposition showed that soil organic matter and bulk density were the key factors affecting the degree of soil salinization, and compared with their independent effects, their combined effect on soil salinization was greater. This study’s conclusions can provide a point of reference for further research on the mechanisms of soil improvement and desalinization in coastal saline land.

Valorization of treated wastewater from the soaking of baby alpaca skin fur

Baby alpaca fur industry generates considerable wastewater during the soaking process, which contains high levels of total suspended solids (TSSs), proteins, and salts, among other components. The valorization of wastewater after precipitation, coagulation–flocculation, and aeration treatments was evaluated for use in irrigation water, fertigation, groundwater recharge, concrete construction, and disposal. The precipitation treatment sludge and the coagulation–flocculation treatment were evaluated as a protein source, soil quality improvement, and disposal. The treatment system included evaluations of nine pH levels, seven coagulant doses, and seven aeration times. The contents of TSSs, chemical oxygen demand (COD), total Kjeldalh nitrogen (TKN), ammonia nitrogen (N–NH3), and oils and fats (O&G), among other parameters, were determined in the treated and untreated wastewater. Before entering the treatment system, the physicochemical characterization of the wastewater showed a high concentration of parameters related to organic matter and dust, such as O&G, five-day biological oxygen demand (BOD5), COD, TSSs, TKN, and N–NH3. The optimal removal parameters were pH 12 for the chemical precipitation of proteins, a dose of 480 mg/L FeCl3 as a coagulant for TSSs removal, and 150 min of aeration; removal efficiencies of 99.02 %, 77.49 %, 79.93 %, and 64.62 % for TSSs, Cod, TKN, and N–NH3, respectively, were obtained. The wastewater after treatment can be used for groundwater recharge and concrete construction, and the wastewater with 2 % dilution can be used for irrigation water and fertigation. The sludge after precipitation is rich in protein and can be used as a protein source or soil quality improver.

Impacts of Varying Sowing Dates on the Profitability and Production of Cultivars of Pigeonpea (Cajanus cajan L. Mill sp.)

At the experimental farm of the College of Agriculture, Badnapur, VNMKV, Parbhani, a suitable range of field experiments were done during the kharif season, with an optimal time of sowing. The experiment was carried out using five varieties in the sub plot, V1-BSMR-736, V2-BSMR-853, V3-BDN-711, V4-BDN-708, and V5-Vipula, and four sowing dates in the main plot, D1: (15 th June), D2: (30 th June), D3: (15 th July), and D4: (30th July). The soil had a medium-black color, a clayey texture, a high base saturation level, an alkaline reaction, and a higher concentration of total soluble salts. It also had low levels of nitrogen and phosphorus and high levels of potassium and lime. The dibbling method of sowing was used. According to the experiment's results, sowing of pigeonpea on June 15 th was the best date to achieve greater yield metrics, specifically number of pods per plant, pod weight plant-1 (g), grain weight plant-1 (g), and test weight (g). in addition to economic indicators including GMR (119080 Rs ha-1), NMR (96573 Rs ha-1), and B:C (5.29), in addition to harvest index (HI), biological yield (kg ha-1) and seed yield (kg ha-1). Comparatively speaking to the other kinds, the pigeonpea variety BSMR-736 was shown to be very prolific.

Assessing the potential long-term effects of sea-level rise on salt marsh’s coastal protective capacity under different climate pathway scenarios

Salt marshes act as natural barriers that reduce wave energy during storm events and help protect coastal communities located in low-lying areas. This ecosystem can be an important asset for climate adaptation due to its particular capability of vertically accrete to adjust to long-term changes in water levels. Therefore, understanding marsh protection benefits thresholds in the face of sea-level rise (SLR) is important for planning future climate adaptation. In this context, the main goal of this manuscript is to examine how the storm protection benefits provided by salt marshes might evolve under SLR projections with different probability levels and emission pathways. In this study, a modeling framework that employs marsh migration predictions from the Sea Level Affecting Marshes Model (SLAMM) as parameterization into a hydrodynamic and wave model (ADCIRC + SWAN) was utilized to explicitly represent wave attenuation by vegetation under storm surge conditions. SLAMM predictions indicate that the SLR scenario, a combination of probability level and emission pathways, plays a substantial role in determining future marsh migration or marsh area loss. For example, results based on the 50% probability, stabilized emissions scenario show an increase of 45% in the marsh area on Maryland’s Lower Eastern Shore by 2100, whereas Dorchester County alone could experience a 75% reduction in total salt marsh areas by 2100 under the 1% probability, growing emissions scenario. ADCIRC + SWAN results using SLAMM land cover and elevation outputs indicate that distinct temporal thresholds emerge where marsh extent sharply decreases and wave heights increase, especially after 2050, and exacerbates further after 2080. These findings can be utilized for guiding environmental policies and to aid informed decisions and actions in response to SLR-driven environmental changes.

Evaluating Nutrient Composition of Adult Patients’ Normal Diet Menus: Experience of Public Hospitals in Türkiye

Background: Hospital menus are profoundly important to meet the nourishment needs of patients. So, this study is conducted to determine the nutrient adequacy of adult patients’ normal diet menus. Methods: An evaluation of 30-day fixed menus consisting of 4 dishes was conducted in four different public hospitals in Ankara, the capital of Türkiye. Mean adequacy ratio (MAR) and nutrient adequacy ratio (NAR) were used to examine the sufficiency of nutrients and meals. Results: For all the hospitals, MAR value was found higher than %85. However, nutrient adequacy ratio of dietary fiber, calcium and magnesium were lower than the other nutrients. It was determined that total fat, saturated fat, salt and cholesterol (except hospital D) contents were high according to the recommended values. Nevertheless, these fixed menus supplied 75% daily fiber on average. Hospital A and D menus met calcium requirements by 73% and 67%, respectively. While hospital D menus met magnesium (76%) and potassium (67%) requirements moderately, other hospitals approached 100% sufficiency for potassium. It is remarkable that in all the hospitals the amount of fruits seemed very low, up to 34%. Conclusion: As the hospital meal is an essential part of in-patients’ institutional care and nutritional support, the nutrient contents of menus should be monitored for nutritional requirements and, if necessary, there should be initiatives and arrangements in standard recipes to reduce salt and fat contents.

Soil Localized Leaching and Reclamation with Gypsum and Sulfuric Acid: A Case Study of Pistachio Orchard, Kerman-Iran

ABSTRACT Localized leaching method is a new reclamation leaching technique. Localized leaching method by using drip tapes allows water to be applied directly to the areas of salt accumulation. This study applied localized leaching method on a sandy loam soil in a pistachio orchard in Kerman, Iran to evaluate the impact of three treatments: adding gypsum soil remediation (G), soil remediation with sulfuric acid (SA) andirrigation water (IW) on soil remediation. Three treatments (IW, G and SA) in four repetitions were used to remove soluble salts from the Main Active Root Zone (MARZ) in a pistachio orchard which irrigated by a subsurface irrigation system. The localized leaching method consist of two T-tape pipelines at a distance of 40 cm located on both sides of the tree rows. Soil sampling was carried out before and after leaching from soil unit profiles with 80 cm (Length) × 120 cm (Depth) with 20 cm intervals. Concentrations of sodium (Na), magnesium (Mg), calcium (Ca) cations, and electrical conductivity (EC) were examined before and after leaching process. Results revealed that application of G-treatment compared to IW-treatment and SA-treatment led to more leaching of Na and Mg from the soil by 61% and 50%, respectively. The amount of leached Ca in both G-treatment and SA-treatments was less than that of IW-treatment. The leaching efficiency of total soluble salts for G, IW and SA treatments were 58%, 56% and 45%, respectively. Gypsum application could be recommended as a soil amendment. In addition, the localized leaching technique offers water-saving potential opposed to traditional leaching methods which applying water to the entire field.

Observation of a moderate major Baltic Sea inflow in December 2023

Just before Christmas 2023, the low-pressure system storm “Zoltan” struck Germany, resulting in widespread damage and two consecutive large storm surges on the North Sea coast in the night from Thursday 21 December 2023 to Friday 22 December 2023. Storm Zoltan brought heavy rainfall, accompanied by thunderstorms and winds ranging between 90 and 115 kmh-1\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$\\mathrm {km\\,h^{-1}}$$\\end{document}, with gusts reaching up to 140 kmh-1\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$\\mathrm {km\\,h^{-1}}$$\\end{document} along the coast which caused severe damage, particularly in northern Germany. Characteristics of the inflowing water at the Fehmarn Belt buoy (FEB), Darss Sill station (DAR) and the Arkona Basin buoy (ARK), including salinity, temperature, dissolved oxygen and ocean currents properties, were analysed to understand the impact of storm Zoltan in the western Baltic Sea. In addition to the damage along its path, following the onset of strong westerly winds associated with storm Zoltan, a large volume of water, containing saline (17–22 psu), cold (5–6 °C), and oxygen-rich 7–8 (mll-1\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$\\,\\mathrm { ml\\,l^{-1}}$$\\end{document}) water from the Kattegat and the North Sea reached into the western Baltic Sea. The sea level at Landsort Norra increased by +57 cm over a period of 14 days, from 15 December to 29 December 2023. This resulted in a total volume change of 198 km3\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$\\mathrm {km^3}$$\\end{document} in the entire Baltic Sea, with 169 km3\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$\\mathrm {km^3}$$\\end{document} and 29 km3\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$\\mathrm {km^3}$$\\end{document} provided via the Belt Sea and the Sound Sea, respectively. Observations at the DAR indicated a significant inflow between 19 December 2023 and 1 January 2024 with salinity above 13 psu, temperature below 5.5 °C and dissolved oxygen of about 7.5–8 mll-1\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$\\mathrm { ml\\,l^{-1}}$$\\end{document}. While the maximum salinity of the bottom layer at the DAR was about 17 psu, the ARK exhibited significantly higher salinities, reaching up to 22 psu at the bottom layer. During the main inflow period, 75 km3\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$\\mathrm {km^3}$$\\end{document} of highly saline water entered the western Baltic Sea. This corresponds to an average salt transport of 1.75 Gt into the western Baltic Sea (1.39 Gt from the Belt Sea and 0.36 Gt from the Sound Sea), representing more than 20% of the total annual salt import into the Baltic Sea), which places the event in the moderate range of major Baltic inflows. This event brought an amount of about 0.8 106\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$\\mathrm {10^6}$$\\end{document} t oxygen into the Baltic Sea. This was the strongest inflow into the Baltic Sea since 2016.

User Acceptability Testing of Mobile Application in Indian Local Languages for Cardiovascular Risk Stratification and Modification among Patients with Type 2 Diabetes

Introduction: Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in patients with type 2 diabetes. Digital health tools like mobile application have fast emerged as a technology capable of closing the gap in cardiovascular disease self- management and revolutionizing the way healthcare is traditionally delivered. One of the causes for low app engagement of Apps in India is perhaps that few of these apps are available in local languages. The goal is to reach as many diabetic patients as possible while avoiding linguistic hurdles.  Methodology: The ‘healthy heart’ mobile app was developed and translated into Hindi and Marathi languages for CVD risk stratification and risk management among Type 2 diabetes mellitus patients. User acceptability testing of the app on its design, presentation, content, and user- friendliness was undertaken. The feedback on utility of the app for CVD risk stratification and modification was assessed. A total 100 multilingual app users profile were noted for CVD Risk Status, Life Style Practices and CVD Risk Factors.  Results: The Healthy Heart multi-lingual app was successfully developed for CVD risk classification and risk management among Type 2 diabetes mellitus patients. The patients had the choice to select the desired language of the app from the versions available in English, Hindi and Marathi. The Mobile App's Home Screen displayed the CVD risk score and category, a health tracker to monitor compliance with WHO recommendations regarding diet, physical activity, addictions, medication adherence, diabetic, and CVD Risk Profile. The majority of respondents rated the App's design, presentation, content, and user- friendliness favorably and emphasized the utility of App for CVD self-management and risk reduction. Characteristics of Type 2 Diabetic patients demonstrated poor compliance for total fruits and vegetable intake, total fat intake and total salt intake, physical activity Guidelines apart from poor control for blood pressure, glycemic control and lipid targets.  Conclusion: The multilingual mobile App for CVD risk stratification, self-management and CVD risk reduction among diabetic patients was successfully developed in Hindi and Marathi language. User acceptability testing results were found to be favorable for the mobile app.

“Panampaniyaaram”: A Traditional Food Product Made with SmallMillet for Revitalization towards Sustainable Nutrition

performed by panelists using a 9-point hedonic scale were used to assess nineteen treatments on different mixtures by altering the flour types and their percentages in four levels, with palmyrah pulp and small-millet flours, including finger millet, little millet, and Foxtail millet. The sample prepared from 100% finger millet flour was chosen as the most preferred sample, based on the results obtained from the sensory evaluations. Physicochemical analysis of the selected treatment revealed that pH was 5.86±0.01 and the total ash content 1.38±0.18 g/100 g was significantly (p&lt;0.05) higher, and crude fat content 9.04±0.02 g/100 g, total salt content 0.201±0.026 g/100 g, and total sugar content 16.38 g/100g, was significantly (p&lt;0.05) less than that of the control sample which contained wheat flour. The selected treatment of the mineral content was significantly (p&lt;0.05) higher than that of the control treatment and contained Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, and Potassium were 150, 60, 32.7 and 76.8 mg/100 g, respectively. In summary, palmyrah fruit pulp and finger millet can be used to create healthy, nutritional and affordable natural snacks “panampaniyaaram”, which will satisfy consumer preferences. Further studies are required to understand the developed product's organoleptic properties, antioxidant, vitamins, and anti-microbial activities as well as ways to extend its shelf-life. Keywords: Panampaniyaaram, palmyrah pulp, small-millets, finger millet, value-addition

Effect of Different Sowing Dates on the Growth of Pigeonpea (Cajanus cajan L. Millsp.) Varieties

The field investigation conducted during kharif season, at experimental farm, College of Agriculture, Badnapur, VNMKV, Parbhani. The experiment conducted with four sowing dates in main plot viz, D1 : (15th June) , D2: (30th June) , D3 : (15th July), D4 : (30th July) and five varieties in sub plot viz, V1-BSMR-736, V2-BSMR-853, V3-BDN-711, V4-BDN-708 and V5-VIPULA. The soil was medium black, clay in texture, alkaline in reaction and higher in total soluble salt concentration, low in nitrogen and phosphorus and rich in potassium and lime, alkaline in reaction with high base saturation. Sowing was done by dibbling method. From the result of experiment, it can be concluded that, among different sowing dates for pigeonpea, the sowing on 15th June, was found optimum for achieving higher seed yield. The pigeonpea variety BSMR-736 was found to be highly productive as compared to rest of the varieties.