Search

Understanding microscopic directional correlations in ion movements within lithium-ion battery (LIB) electrolytes is important because these correlations directly affect the ionic conductivity. Onsager transport coefficients are widely used to understand these correlations. On the other hand, the Van Hove function (VHF) is also capable of determining correlated motions. However, identifying various types of ion correlated motions in LIB electrolytes using VHF is not well explored. Here, we have conducted molecular dynamics simulations of a representative experimental LIB electrolyte system—lithium hexafluorophosphate (LiPF6)—at different concentrations in a (9:1 wt. %) mixture of ethyl methyl carbonate and fluoroethylene carbonate in order to explore the capabilities and limitations of using VHF to understand different types of ion correlations. We conclude that analysis of VHF can qualitatively describe both the positive correlation between cation–anion at different salt concentrations and the negative correlation between cation–cation and anion–anion present in high salt concentration, but it cannot foretell which correlation is dominating at any given electrolyte concentration. This type of quantitative information can be obtained only via Onsager's approach. This could be seen as a limitation of relying solely on VHF to fully understand ion correlation in electrolyte media. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigate the collapse and expansion dynamics of a linear polyelectrolyte (PE) with hydrodynamic interactions. Using dissipative particle dynamics with a bead–spring PE model, long-range electrostatics, and explicit ions, we examine how the timescales of collapse tcol and expansion texp depend on the chain length N and obtain scaling relationships tcol ∼ Nα and texp ∼ Nβ. For neutral polymers, we derive values of α = 0.94 ± 0.01 and β = 1.97 ± 0.10. Interestingly, the introduction of electrostatic interaction markedly shifts α to α ≈ 1.4 ± 0.1 for salt concentrations within c = 10−4 to 10−2 M. A reduction in the ion-to-monomer size ratio noticeably reduces α. On the other hand, the expansion scaling remains approximately constant, β ≈ 2, regardless of the salt concentration or ion size considered. We find β > α for all conditions considered, implying that expansion is always slower than collapse in the limit of long polymers. This asymmetry is explained by distinct kinetic pathways of collapse and expansion processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Epitaxial NiO and CrN thin films were deposited on a single-crystal A l 2 O 3 (1 1 ¯ 02) (r-plane sapphire) using magnetron sputtering. The two materials were intentionally deposited into two different deposition chamber designs and under different conditions (temperature, pressure, gases, and energy of sputtered particles). Despite the differences in the deposition condition and material system, both materials had the same feature with uncommon tilted epitaxial growth. Through an in-depth x-ray diffraction analysis of the NaCl (B1)-structured materials on r-plane sapphire, the full twin domain epitaxial relations were determined and can be described as (110) NaCl (B 1) ∥ (4 4 ¯ 03) A l 2 O 3 and [ 1 1 ¯ 2 ] NaCl (B 1) ∥ [ 1 ¯ 1 ¯ 20 ] A l 2 O 3 . This relationship differs from the previously observed orientation of (100) NaCl (B 1) ∥ (1 1 ¯ 02) A l 2 O 3 and [ 100 ] NaCl (B 1) ∥ [ 10 1 ¯ 0 ] A l 2 O 3 . These results are of general relevance for the growth of the extended NaCl (B1)-structured cubic material family onto a r-plane sapphire substrate where similar epitaxial growth can be expected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Epitaxial NiO and CrN thin films were deposited on a single-crystal A l 2 O 3 (1 1 ¯ 02) (r-plane sapphire) using magnetron sputtering. The two materials were intentionally deposited into two different deposition chamber designs and under different conditions (temperature, pressure, gases, and energy of sputtered particles). Despite the differences in the deposition condition and material system, both materials had the same feature with uncommon tilted epitaxial growth. Through an in-depth x-ray diffraction analysis of the NaCl (B1)-structured materials on r-plane sapphire, the full twin domain epitaxial relations were determined and can be described as (110) NaCl (B 1) ∥ (4 4 ¯ 03) A l 2 O 3 and [ 1 1 ¯ 2 ] NaCl (B 1) ∥ [ 1 ¯ 1 ¯ 20 ] A l 2 O 3 . This relationship differs from the previously observed orientation of (100) NaCl (B 1) ∥ (1 1 ¯ 02) A l 2 O 3 and [ 100 ] NaCl (B 1) ∥ [ 10 1 ¯ 0 ] A l 2 O 3 . These results are of general relevance for the growth of the extended NaCl (B1)-structured cubic material family onto a r-plane sapphire substrate where similar epitaxial growth can be expected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Hofmeister series characterizes the ability of salt anions to precipitate polyampholytes/proteins. However, the variation of protein size in the bulk solution of acids and the effect of salts on the same have not been studied well. In this article, the four acids (CH3COOH, HNO3, H2SO4, and HCl) and their effects on the hydrodynamic radius (RH) of gelatin in the bulk solution are investigated. The effects of Na salt with the same anions are also considered to draw a comparison between the interactions of acids and salts with polyampholytes. It is suggested that the interactions of polyampholytes with acids are different from those of salts. The interaction series of polyampholytes with acids with respect to the RH of the polyampholyte is C H 3 CO O − > N O 3 − > C l − > S O 4 2 − whereas the interaction series with salts is S O 4 2 − > C H 3 CO O − > C l − > N O 3 − . These different interactions are due to equilibration between acid dissociation and protonation of polyampholytes. Another important factor contributing to the interactions in weak acids is the fact that undissociated acid hinders the movement of dissociated acid. Experiments and simulations were performed to understand these interactions, and the results were identical in terms of the trend in RH (from the experiments) and the radius of gyration (Rg) (from the simulations). It is concluded that the valence of ions and dissociation affect the interaction in the case of acids. However, the interactions are influenced by the kosmotropic and chaotropic effect, hydration, and mobility in the case of salts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To investigate the effect of personalized sweat sodium replacement on drinking behavior, sodium and water balance, and thermophysiological responses during and after ultraendurance running in hot conditions. Methods: Nine participants (7 male, 2 female) completed two 5-hour treadmill runs (60% maximum oxygen uptake, 30°C ambient temperature), in a double-blind randomized crossover design, consuming sodium chloride (SODIUM) capsules to replace 100% of previously assessed losses or placebo (PLACEBO). Fluid was consumed ad libitum. Results: No effect of SODIUM was observed for ad libitum fluid intake or net fluid balance (P >.05). Plasma sodium concentration increased in both trials, but to a greater extent in SODIUM at 2.5 hours (mean [SD]: 4 [4] mmol·L−1 vs 1 [5] mmol·L−1; P <.05) and postexercise (4 [3] mmol·L−1 vs 1 [5] mmol·L−1; P <.05). Plasma volume change was not different between trials (P >.05) but was strongly correlated with sodium balance in SODIUM (r =.880, P <.01). No effect of sodium replacement was observed for heart rate, rectal temperature, thermal comfort, perceived exertion, or physiological strain index. During the 24 hours postexercise, ad libitum fluid intake was greater following SODIUM (2541 [711] mL vs 1998 [727] mL; P =.04), as was urinary sodium excretion (NaCl: 66 [35] mmol, Pl: 21 [12] mmol; P <.01). Conclusions: Personalized sweat sodium replacement during ultraendurance running in hot conditions, with ad libitum fluid intake, exacerbated the rise in plasma sodium concentration compared to no sodium replacement but did not substantially influence overall body-water balance or thermophysiological strain. A large sodium deficit incurred during exercise leads to substantial renal sodium conservation postexercise. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Salt (NaCl), is an essential nutrient for survival, while excessive salt can be detrimental. In the fruit fly, Drosophila melanogaster, internal taste organs in the pharynx are critical gatekeepers impacting the decision to accept or reject a food. Currently, our understanding of the mechanism through which pharyngeal gustatory receptor neurons (GRNs) sense high salt are rudimentary. Here, we found that a member of the ionotropic receptor family, Ir60b, is expressed exclusively in a pair of GRNs activated by high salt. Using a two-way choice assay (DrosoX) to measure ingestion volume, we demonstrate that IR60b and two co-receptors IR25a and IR76b are required to prevent high salt consumption. Mutants lacking external taste organs but retaining the internal taste organs in the pharynx exhibit much higher salt avoidance than flies with all taste organs but missing the three IRs. Our findings highlight the vital role for IRs in a pharyngeal GRN to control ingestion of high salt.

X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) is a powerful experimental tool to probe the local structure in materials with the core hole excitations. Here, the oxygen K-edge XAS spectra of the NaCl solution and pure water are computed by using a recently developed GW-Bethe-Salpeter equation approach, based on configurations modeled by path-integral molecular dynamics with the deep-learning technique. The neural network is trained on ab initio data obtained with strongly constrained and appropriately normed density functional theory. The observed changes in the XAS features of the NaCl solution, compared to those of pure water, are in good agreement between experimental and theoretical results. We provided detailed explanations for these spectral changes that occur when NaCl is solvated in pure water. Specifically, the presence of solvating ion pairs leads to localization of electron-hole excitons. Our theoretical XAS results support the theory that the effects of the solvating ions on the H-bond network are mainly confined within the first hydration shell of ions, however beyond the shell the arrangement of water molecules remains to be comparable to that observed in pure water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Information on salt consumption patterns is needed to inform the need for and design of salt reduction strategies. OBJECTIVES: In northern Ghana, this study aimed to estimate household consumption of salt, including salt from bouillon, and compare (estimated) women and childrens salt intake to global recommendations; to estimate the proportion of salt consumed from bouillon; and to identify factors, including knowledge, attitudes, and practices, associated with household salt consumption. METHODS: Employing mixed-methods methodology, we conducted a pilot survey (n = 369 households enrolled) and focus group discussions (FGDs; n = 20) in Tolon and Kumbungu districts (14 urban, 14 rural clusters) (clinicaltrials.gov registry: NCT04632771). Households reported purchases of discretionary salt (DS, table salt) and bouillon cubes. DS and total salt (TS; DS+salt from bouillon) consumption for women (15-49 y) and children (2-5 y) were estimated using the Adult Male Equivalent method and compared with global recommendations (

Primary alcohols 2(a–h) and o‐aminobenzamides 1(a–h) can be selectively oxidized electrochemically to yield dihydroquinazolinone 4(a–h) and quinazolinones 5(a–h) in an efficient and chemoselective manner. This methodology employs sodium chloride (NaCl) 3(a) as a co‐catalyst and electricity as the oxidizing agent, utilizing cost‐effective and commercially available materials such as Graphite anode, Iron (Fe) cathode, and isopropyl alcohol (iPrOH) as a solvent and weak base. The synthesis yields various quinazolinone derivatives with diverse structural characteristics in good quantities, showcasing the method's broad applicability. This approach facilitates the production of a range of dihydroquinazolinones and quinazolinones (24 examples), highlighting its versatility and compatibility with different functional groups. Characterization of the synthesized derivatives included CHN analysis, 1HNMR spectroscopy, and determination of melting points. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Drought and salt stress are two important environmental factors that significantly restrict plant growth and reproduction. Malate dehydrogenase is essential to life as it is engaged in numerous physiological processes in cells, particularly those related to abiotic stress reactions. However, a complete understanding of MDH family members in kenaf is not clear yet. In this study, subcellular localization analysis and a yeast transcriptional activation assay revealed that HcMDH1 was localized in chloroplasts but had no transcriptional activation activity. When exposed to salt or drought stress, yeast cells expressing the HcMDH1 gene exhibit an increased survival rate. Overexpression of HcMDH1 in Arabidopsis increased seed germination rate and root growth when transgenic lines were exposed to varying concentrations of mannitol and NaCl. Subsequent physiological studies revealed that transgenic lines had higher concentrations of soluble carbohydrates, proline, and chlorophyll and lower concentrations of malondialdehyde (MDA) and reactive oxygen species (ROS). Furthermore, inhibiting HcMDH1 in kenaf using virus-induced gene silencing (VIGS) decreased salt and drought tolerance due to elevated ROS and MDA levels. In these silenced lines, the expression of six essential genes engaged in stress-resistance and photosynthesis, namely HcGAPDH, HcGLYK, HcFBA, HcFBPase, HcPGA, and HcLSD, is significantly altered under salt and drought stress. In summary, HcMDH1 is a complex and positive regulatory gene that plays a key role in regulating chlorophyll content, antioxidant enzyme activity and osmotic regulation under salt and drought stress, which may have implications for kenaf transgenic breeding. Highlights: HcMDH1 is located in the chloroplasts and could be induced by salt and drought stresses. Expression of the HcMDH1 in yeast improved its survival rate under salt and drought conditions. HcMDH1 can improve salt and drought tolerance ability by changing antioxidant activity. Silencing HcMDH1 reduced salt and drought tolerance by altering the expression of some stress-responsive genes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Practical Application This study focused on the physicochemical properties and tenderness of vacuum‐packaged beef M. semitendinosus as affected by various dilution ratios (DRs, 1:4, 1:2, and 1:1) of green kiwifruit juice extract (GKJE) with phosphate buffer during storage at 4°C for 7 days. In addition, the formation of peptides with antioxidant activity for GKJE ability to hydrolyze proteins present in beef was evaluated at different steps of in vitro digestion. Beef with GKJE showed higher tenderness than control (CTL, beef with brine solution alone) during storage, and the increased DR increased tenderness as compared to lower DRs. The addition of GKJE increased protein digestibility during in vitro digestion. To increase the antioxidant activity in the body, GKJE having a DR of 1:2 and 1:1 should be applied to the beef muscle with effective antioxidant activity. These results suggest that DRs of phosphate buffer and kiwifruit juice of 1:1 and 1:2 have the potential to be used as a meat‐tenderizing agent and could increase the digestibility of meat as well as the antioxidant capability of bioactive peptides.The dilution ratio of kiwi juice with phosphate buffer at 1:1 has the potential to be used as a meat‐tenderizing agent during refrigerated storage and also increase the digestibility of beef. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary To conform to the trend of whole‐food diets in recent years, whole potato powder has been used for the processing of extruded vermicelli. The effects of different additives, such as NaCl, citric acid and ethanol, on the cooking quality and sensory quality of whole potato vermicelli obtained via twin‐screw extrusion were investigated. The colour, gelatinisation properties, water absorption, cooking loss, texture profile analysis, scanning electron microscopy analysis and correlation analysis of the whole potato vermicelli were determined and discussed. The brightness of the whole potato vermicelli increased from 52.0 to 55.4 at 1% NaCl addition and increased from 52.0 to 54.9 at 0.8% citric acid addition, and the water absorption of the whole potato vermicelli increased from 83.1% to 159.1% at 0.4% citric acid addition and increased from 83.1% to 258.9% at 8% ethanol addition. The cooking loss of the whole potato vermicelli decreased from 5.3% to 5.1% at 8% ethanol addition, indicating that ethanol could improve the cooking quality of whole potato vermicelli. The texture properties of the whole potato vermicelli decreased with the addition of ethanol, and the ΔH of the whole potato vermicelli decreased from 3.7 to 1.8 J g−1 at 0.8% citric acid addition and decreased from 3.7 to 1.5 J g−1 at 8% ethanol addition, respectively. Moreover, the addition of ethanol was negatively correlated with the max force, break distance, stretching work, hardness, adhesiveness and chewiness of the whole potato vermicelli. The addition of NaCl was positively correlated with the peak gelatinisation temperature. All three additives affected the microstructure of the whole potato vermicelli, including roughening the cross section and increasing the number of pores. In this study, NaCl improved the gelatinisation properties of whole potato vermicelli, citric acid and ethanol improved the water absorption of the whole potato vermicelli, and citric acid improved the anti‐browning effects of the whole potato vermicelli. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Urban and peri-urban lakes experience a wider array of environmental stressors, and often at a higher intensity, than their rural counterparts, including road salt runoff. A paleolimnological approach was used to determine pre-disturbance limnological conditions and to evaluate the impact of environmental stressors (nutrient inputs, climate change, and winter de-icing salt) on the long-term (~ 150 years) water quality of a small urban kettle lake in the Oak Ridges Moraine near Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Specifically, we examined Cladocera and diatom subfossils in 210Pb-dated sediment cores from a lake with elevated measured chloride concentrations, Haynes Lake (Cl− = 201 mg/l), and a nearby reference lake located in a conservation area (Swan Lake, Cl− = 28 mg/l). In Haynes Lake, Cladocera compositional change is consistent with increasing Cl− concentrations, showing a shift from a Bosmina spp.-dominated cladoceran assemblage to a Daphnia spp.-dominated assemblage. Concurrently, we recorded increases in the relative abundances of the diatom taxon Achnanthidium minutissimum and benthic fragilarioid taxa. These biological changes coincided closely with the onset of road salting in the region (ca. 1940s). The reference site (Swan Lake), located ~ 1 km from our salt-impacted site, displayed only minimal changes in both Cladocera and diatom assemblages, suggesting road development and salting within the Haynes Lake watershed had a larger impact than regional stressors (i.e., climate). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soil salinity pollution is increasing worldwide, seriously affecting plant growth and crop production. Existing reports on how potassium indole-3-butyric acid (IBAK) regulates rice salt stress adaptation by affecting rice carbon metabolism, transcription factor (TF) genes expression, and biosynthesis of secondary metabolites still have limitations. In this study, an IBAK solution at 40 mg L-1 was sprayed on rice leaves at the seedling stage. The results showed that the IBAK application could promote shoot and root growth, decrease sucrose and fructose content, increase starch content, and enhance acid invertase (AI) and neutral invertase (NI) activity under salt stress, indicating altered carbon allocation. Furthermore, the expression of TF genes belonging to the ethylene responsive factor (ERF), WRKY, and basic helix-loop-helix (bHLH) families was influenced by IBAK. Many key genes (OsSSIIc, OsSHM1, and OsPPDKB) and metabolites (2-oxoglutaric acid, fumaric acid, and succinic acid) were upregulated in the carbon metabolism pathway. In addition, this study highlighted the role of IBAK in regulating the biosynthesis of secondary metabolites pathway, potentially contributing to rice stress adaptability. The results of this study can provide new sustainable development solutions for agricultural production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electro-chemical machining (ECM) can safely be categorized as being a unique unconventional machining technique, in which the role of thermal defects are not involved. The NiTiCo shape memory alloy has high yield strength coupled with good resistance to aggressive aqueous environments, which makes it a potential candidate for use in several bio-medical applications. This research concentrates on electro-chemical machining of a NiTiCo alloy. Taguchi's Design of Experiment (DOE) containing three-parameters and three-factors was used to conduct the experimental study. The influence of concentration of the sodium chloride electrolyte, voltage, and frequency on output characteristics, such as (i) material removal rate (MRR), (ii) surface roughness (SR), and (iii) over-cut (OC), was analyzed. Experimental outputs revealed the voltage (45.29%) to be the most influential among the three controlling parameter. Grey relational analysis (GRA) was utilized to discover the ideal parametric relation and optimize machining characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Roadside habitat has been touted as a conservation opportunity for insect pollinators, including the declining monarch butterfly. The spectacular monarch migration is under threat from the loss of habitat and the decline of their milkweed host plants. In the northern part of their range, roadsides could potentially produce millions of monarchs annually due to high densities of milkweed; however, roadside milkweed can accumulate chemicals from roads, such as sodium from road salt. Controlled lab studies have shown mixed effects of sodium on monarch development: small increases can be beneficial as sodium is an important micronutrient in brain and muscle development, but large increases can sometimes decrease survival. It is unclear how dietary sodium affects performance in ecologically relevant conditions and the migration itself. In this experiment, we raised monarchs outdoors, in migration‐inducing conditions, on milkweed sprayed with three levels of sodium chloride. We released 2464 tagged monarchs and held an additional 246 for further lab assays. While our recovery rates to the wintering grounds were low (N = 7 individuals), individuals from all three sodium chloride treatments made it to Mexico. Butterflies reared on control milkweed and low salt concentrated sodium in their tissues, while those on high salt diets excreted sodium, suggesting high salt levels were above a physiological optimum. There were no effects of treatment on wing coloration, survival, body size, immunity, or parasite prevalence. Taken together, our results suggest that monarchs are robust to levels of sodium in milkweeds found along roadsides, which is promising with respect to the toxicity of roadside plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PbX(OH) (X = Cl, Br, I) is considered one of the effective encapsulation matrixes to improve the stability and luminescence efficiency of perovskites. Several strategies have been explored to construct perovskite@PbBr(OH) composites with high photoluminescence quantum yield. However, there is limited research on their precise growth kinetics mechanism and morphology control. Herein, PbBr2 microwires (MWs) were applied to act as the lead source and serve as a skeleton frame for the growth of CH3NH3PbBr3 (MAPbBr3) MWs. The structure transition from MAPbBr3 to MAPbBr3@PbBr(OH) MWs was triggered by the synergistic effect of H2O and CH3NH3OOCCH3 (methylamine acetate, MAAc). All components and synthesis processes used in this system are explicit, which allows a more in-depth exploration of the MAPbBr3@PbBr(OH) formation kinetics. The results indicate that the hydrolysis of MAAc provides OH- and partly replaces Br- ions in MAPbBr3 to form the MAPbBrxAc3-x intermediate, which induces the transformation of MAPbBr3 into PbBr(OH) until the stable MAPbBr3@PbBr(OH) microwires are formed. Based on this growth kinetics process, utilizing H2O--MAAc and extra sodium halide (NaCl, NaI) mixture can synthesize MAPbBrnX3-n@PbX(OH) (X = Cl, I) microwires successfully. Our study can open a new avenue for developing high-efficiency and high-stability fluorescent hybrid perovskites for three primary color detectors, lasing cavities, and sensors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An optimal W0.4Mo0.6S2 solid solution, equipped with rich intrinsic defects, exhibits excellent stability in both 0.5 M H2SO4 and 2.0 M NaCl, showing negligible activity degradation after continuous 50 hours of working, thereby showing outstanding practical prospects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Industrial starch oxidations are commonly carried out using sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl). Electrification of this process via continuous generation of NaOCl from sodium chloride (NaCl) in situ has the potential to substantially lower the environmental impact thereof, as brine waste streams are reduced, while occupational health and safety risks associated with the use of NaOCl, such as during transport, handling, and storage, can also be minimized. In the present study, the influence of continuous electrochemical generation of NaOCl from NaCl on the quality of the starch oxidation process is evaluated based on measurements of oxidized starch carboxylate contents (DSCO2H), molecular weights (Mws), and pasting characteristics in comparison to those of commercially available reference oxidized starches produced by oxidation with NaOCl in batch suspension processes. Recycling of the NaCl solution and how this affects the quality of the oxidized starch products is also investigated. By successfully preparing oxidized granular starches almost identical to the reference starches, the results show that it is feasible to electrify the oxidation process and that the original NaCl chloride solution can be recycled at least four times for in situ electrochemical generation of NaOCl. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Endoplasmic reticulum–plasma membrane contact sites (ER–PM CSs) are evolutionarily conserved membrane domains found in all eukaryotes, where the ER closely interfaces with the PM. This short distance is achieved in plants through the action of tether proteins such as synaptotagmins (SYTs). Arabidopsis comprises five SYT members (SYT1–SYT5), but whether they possess overlapping or distinct biological functions remains elusive. SYT1, the best‐characterized member, plays an essential role in the resistance to abiotic stress. This study reveals that the functionally redundant SYT1 and SYT3 genes, but not SYT5, are involved in salt and cold stress resistance. We also show that, unlike SYT5, SYT1 and SYT3 are not required for Pseudomonas syringae resistance. Since SYT1 and SYT5 interact in vivo via their SMP domains, the distinct functions of these proteins cannot be caused by differences in their localization. Interestingly, structural phylogenetic analysis indicates that the SYT1 and SYT5 clades emerged early in the evolution of land plants. We also show that the SYT1 and SYT5 clades exhibit different structural features in their SMP and Ca2+ binding of their C2 domains, rationalizing their distinct biological roles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hypernatremia is an increase in serum sodium concentration above 145 mmol/L. There are many causes of elevated sodium levels in the blood serum. One is incorrect actions performed by medical staff. The symptoms of excessively high serum sodium levels depend on the severity of hypernatremia, the rate of its increase and the accompanying volume disorders. Severe symptoms include altered consciousness, increased muscle tone and reflexes, convulsions, psychomotor hyperactivity or drowsiness (up to coma), respiratory failure, and even death. We present the case of a 45‐year‐old man who took seven tablets of a blood pressure‐lowering drug, and paramedics subsequently administered a concentrated solution of table salt to induce vomiting. However, vomiting did not occur, leading to hypernatremia. Ultimately, the man survived but developed persistent cognitive dysfunction, including disordered short‐term memory and encoding and retrieval of information from long‐term memory, weakening of attention function and fatigue, and disorders in abstract thinking. The patient's family went to the prosecutor's office to investigate the possibility of medical malpractice. Experts found that the paramedics' actions were incorrect. Although it has been known for many years that table salt solutions should not be used to induce vomiting, unfortunately, both laypeople and medical professionals are still using this technique. Iatrogenic salt poisoning may end not only in serious health complications but also in legal consequences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Direct regeneration is an effective strategy of spent lithium iron phosphate (S-LFP), with the principal aspect being the selection of the lithium source and reductant. Here, assisted with a thermodynamically favourable reaction involving a bifunctional organic lithium salt (lithium citrate), the single-step regeneration of S-LFP is successfully achieved. The structure and composition of the regenerated LFP are significantly restored, demonstrating excellent electrochemical performance (142.7 mA h g−1) with no degradation after 200 cycles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Li2CO3--Na2CO3--K2CO3 carbonate system exhibits superior sulfur interception capacity and thermodynamic stability in the molten salt oxidation (MSO) of cation exchange resins (CERs) with high sulfur content. However, the spent salt from the MSO process cannot be reused to reduce the operating cost and further improve the reduction ratio. Therefore, the optimal oxygen equivalent for treatment is obtained by thermodynamic equilibrium analysis of the MSO process of CERs as 1.08 multiples of the theoretical oxygen demand and the corresponding approximate chemical formula in this work. The results of the equilibrium analysis are used as the basis to propose a replenishment cycle for the MSO process (MSO-RC), which replenishes the consumed carbonate to restore the SO2 adsorption capacity and treatment capacity of the spent salt. During the experiments, the oxidation efficiencies of MSO-RC are higher than 99%, and the volume reduction ratio is improved by 12% compared with the traditional MSO. In addition, the MSO-RC maintains sulfur interception rates above 80% across multiple cycles and preserves over 94.7% Li2CO3 by adding cost-effective Na2CO3 and K2CO3 into the molten salt system. The MSO-RC process significantly improves the efficiency of process operation with lower operational costs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary Salami is a fermented meat product with a controlled fermentation process, generally with the addition of specific bacteria that improve flavour and texture properties as well as contribute to safety. Also, other additives such as collagen can be used, due to their functional properties that are incorporated in these products. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of adding collagen to Italian type salami with reduced NaCl on the water activity, ripening time and physicochemical properties. Six treatments were carried out, three with 2.5% sodium chloride (NaCl): without collagen (CON), 0.25% collagen (T25), 0.5% collagen (T50) and three with 1.25% NaCl: without collagen (TR), 0.25% collagen (TR25), 0.5% collagen (TR50). Collagen improved the texture parameters of Italian type salami with NaCl reduction, as well as contributing to an increase in moisture and a reduction in Aw. The addition of 0.5% collagen reduced the ripening time of Italian type salami, reaching a water activity <0.91. Thus, collagen is an ingredient with potential for use in the production of Italian type salami with reduced NaCl, contributing to the improvement of its physicochemical and technological properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aluminum content of concentrated (27 wt%) sodium chloride solutions could be crucial for large‐scale chlor‐alkali‐based industries applying membrane cell electrolysis. Thus, a facile method which enables a fast and reliable protocol to determine the Al content of these solutions on ppb scale in industrial environments is fundamentally important. It was demonstrated that the increased sensitivity of colorful Al‐ECR (eriochrome cyanine R) complex by the use of a cationic surfactant and specific biological buffers could effectively indicate the Al content in an extended pH interval of a concentrated saline medium under industrial conditions. The dependence of the analytical protocol on pH, temperature, time, wavelength, and the salinity of the medium was investigated. It was shown that the absorbance‐based measurements of the solution should be performed at least 2–4 h after its preparation. By applying the selected two Good's buffers (HEPES: 4‐(2‐hydroxyethyl)‐1‐piperazineethanesulfonic acid, MOPS: 3‐(N‐morpholino)‐propanesulfonic acid) and Tris (tris(hydroxymethyl)aminomethane), 32.8–38.1 % increase in the sensitivity was achieved for saturated NaCl solutions. Moreover, the limits of detection and quantification (LOD, LOQ) were also lowered by 19.0–29.8 %, and the salinity dependence of the calibration was also reduced. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study we evaluated three binary salt mixtures of 50 wt% potassium bromide and 50 wt% sodium chloride, manganese chloride, or magnesium chloride for methane pyrolysis in a bubble column reactor configuration. Initial results confirm preferential mixtures of reciprocal salts that tune salt ionicity. This study focusses on the interactions of these binary salt mixtures with 5 wt% suspensions of 2-μm 2H-MoS 2 with a 100 mm bubble path at 800 and 850 oC. Magnesium chloride and potassium bromide show a favourable enhancement with MoS 2 , with an apparent activation energy of 251 kJ mol−1 (salt mixture) decreasing to 96 kJ mol−1 (slurry mixture). Assessing the results indicates that MgCl 2 -KBr melts promote increased contact with MoS 2 relative to NaCl-KBr and MnCl 2 -KBr, and this in turn improves hydrogen yield. Further investigation of slurry system through deuterium-methane exchange confirms molybdenum disulfide promotes methane decomposition to protium, hydrogen, methyl radical, and methylene, preferentially intensified by magnesium mixtures. Additional reaction steps vary depending on salt selection. At 850 oC, the salt effect is significant, leading to an inverse relationship between net increase of side products in the slurries and salt activity. In contrast, at 800 oC, the salt effect is small, and activity is dictated by the MoS 2 suspension. [Display omitted] • Mechanistic explanation of reaction step in MoS 2 molten salt slurry systems. • Kinetics of a range of MoS 2 molten salt slurry systems. • Description of 3 novel slurry systems for methane pyrolysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In many industrialised countries, sodium intake exceeds the nutritional guidelines. High sodium intake has been associated with health problems, such as arterial hypertension and, consequently, a higher health risk of cardiovascular disease. The aim of this study was to evaluate overall quality of salamis with reduced sodium content by analysing aldehydes, proteolysis, and lipolysis, as well as to verify the correlation between sensory acceptance and volatile compounds. Four formulations were prepared replacing NaCl by a mixture of KCI and CaCl2. Two controls, one with a high level and the other with a low NaCl level were also included in the study. Water activity and pH levels were monitored in all samples. Volatile compounds were measured, in particular, hexanal, 2,4-decadienal and 3-methylbutanal. Finally, a sensory acceptance test was carried out using potential consumers. The results highlighted a relation between aldehyde concentration and sensory acceptance, hexanal/3-methybutanal ratio, that may be a marker of partial NaCl substitution in salami. Thus, our results may be used to guide the use of NaCl substitution by KCl/CaCl2 in terms of volatile compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the last century, human activities were the primary cause of air, water, and soil contamination. However, in the twenty-first century, while pollutants like sulfur oxides (SOx) and nitrogen oxides (NOx) remain significant, microplastics (MPs) have emerged as a new global environmental concern. Microplastics are plastic fragments that are less than 5 mm in diameter. Their widespread distribution in aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems has adverse impacts on various ecological systems. The presence of MPs has been well documented in diverse matrices, such as table salt, drinking water, indoor and outdoor air, beer, cold drinks, aquatic organisms, plants, and earthworms. The potential adverse effects of MPs consumption have been reported in various organisms, including earthworms and aquatic fishes; however, their potential effects on human health through respiratory, dietary, and other exposures are still being elucidated. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the current knowledge on potential sources, quantities present in water, table salt, air, and possible routes in the human body through different trophic levels. Furthermore, this paper reviews insights into the movement and accumulation of MPs at different trophic levels (i.e., aquatic, and terrestrial organisms) and their impacts on the cycling of soil carbon and nutrients (nitrogen and phosphorus). Additionally, this review paper addresses the current trends in MPs research and proposes strategic management techniques to mitigate MPs pollution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A cascaded single-mode tapered fiber (SMTF) has been investigated for simultaneous detection of two refractive indices (RI). Two SMTFs with distinct-free spectral range (FSR) of 3.88 nm and 23.23 nm were concatenated to realize the cascaded SMTF. The interaction between evanescent waves generated by the cascaded SMTF and variations in the surrounding environment results in measurable wavelength shifts. When tested with different concentrations of sodium chloride to simulate RI variations, wavelength shifts were yielded with FSR corresponding to the stimulated SMTF. This work validates the feasibility of using cascaded SMTFs for simultaneous dual RI detection in real-world applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Alopecia areata is a widespread, non-scarring, autoimmune T cell-mediated condition that causes patchy hair loss on the scalp and other regions of the body. This study aimed to the efficacy of excimer laser in the treatment of alopecia areata. Methods: An interventional clinical study was conducted among 15 patients diagnosed with scalp alopecia areata, who received their treatment only as one session of excimer laser per week for 3 months. Treatment of alopecia areata was done according to the study protocol and the follow-up was made by taking photographs every two sessions for evaluation of the percentage of hair regrowth and calculation of SALT II score difference before and after treatment. Results: the duration of treatment required for achieving the treatment in the studied group excimer alone up to 12 weeks. In the complete response to treatment of complete responder (SALT II= 0 after treatment), we recorded 26.7% of the studied group are complete responders (100% hair regrowth) while the non-responders (SALT II before =SALT II after) the studied group recorded a percentage of non-responders (46.7%) hair regrowth =0. Conclusions: Excimer laser is an effective tool in the treatment of patchy alopecia areata of mild to moderate degree. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The TATA-box binding protein (TBP) and TBP-associated factors (TAFs) constitute the transcription factor IID (TFIID), a crucial component of RNA polymerase II, essential for transcription initiation and regulation. Several TFIID subunits are shared with the Spt–Ada–Gcn5–acetyltransferase (SAGA) coactivator complex. Recent research has revealed the roles of TBP and TAFs in organogenesis and stress adaptation. In this study, we identified 1 TBP and 21 putative TAFs in the mungbean genome, among which VrTAF5, VrTAF6, VrTAF8, VrTAF9, VrTAF14, and VrTAF15 have paralogous genes. Their potential involvement in abiotic stress responses was also investigated here, including high salinity, water deficit, heat, and cold. The findings indicated that distinct genes exerted predominant influences in the response to different abiotic stresses through potentially unique mechanisms. Specifically, under salt stress, VrTBP, VrTAF2, and VrTAF15–1 were strongly induced, while VrTAF10, VrTAF11, and VrTAF13 acted as negative regulators. In the case of water-deficit stress, it was likely that VrTAF1, VrTAF2, VrTAF5–2, VrTAF9, and VrTAF15–1 were primarily involved. Additionally, in response to changes in ambient temperature, it was possible that genes such as VrTAF5–1, VrTAF6–1, VrTAF9–2, VrTAF10, VrTAF13, VrTAF14b–2, and VrTAF15–1 might play a dominant role. This comprehensive exploration of VrTBP and VrTAFs can offer a new perspective on understanding plant stress responses and provide valuable insights into breeding improvement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding the amount of bentonite intrusion into rock cracks is necessary to evaluate the performance of natural barrier materials for geological disposal. In this study, assuming a possible chemical action in geological disposals, bentonite was immersed in various solutions to accelerate the chemical action, and a half-year swelling and intrusion experiment was conducted. The experimental results showed that the swelling pressure and intrusion distance of bentonite in a solution environment differed depending on the solution type and that both were smaller than those in a purified water environment. The swelling pressure of bentonite in the environments of the KOH, NaOH, MgCl2, and NaCl solutions decreased significantly, and it did not significantly enter into the gaps in these systems. This is undesired in situations where gaps such as the cracks of rock must be filled. Furthermore, a numerical analysis model was constructed that can simply represent the complex intrusion behavior of bentonite in cracks considering the balance of three forces acting on bentonite. The analysis results confirmed that under conditions where the external swelling pressure fluctuates over time, the intruding fluid fills the cracks more slowly than under conditions where the external swelling pressure is constant. It was also confirmed that under conditions where the viscosity of the intruding fluid decreases over time, the intruding fluid fills the cracks faster than under conditions where the upper limit viscosity is constant. The numerical results clarified that the governing equation for bentonite intrusion into closed cracks may express the long-term intrusive behavior of bentonite into cracks during geological disposal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With a growing number of PCMs and new, suitable PCM candidates, an overview is not only important, but also increasingly complex. Classification of PCM was thus changed significantly in the past decades. A review of classification of PCMs from recent years shows that not only different classification criteria are used, but more important that they are often mixed, used inconsistently, even without a clear goal. Focusing on the main goal of current classification schemes, to give an overview of the material options for the search for new, suitable PCM candidates, including already established PCMs, a consistent classification is developed in a desktop study. For this, first, the general options for classification criteria are reviewed, and then the appropriate ones selected. Then, based on them a new, revised PCM classification is suggested. It is specifically detailed with regard to mixtures; for binary mixtures it is based on a literature review performed within the study. The result also stresses the importance of specific R&D: for pure substances the sources and the chemical modification, and for mixtures their optimization by new compositions, additives, etc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Co-Al porous materials were fabricated by thermal explosion (TE) reactions from Co and Al powders in a 1:1 ratio using NaCl as a space retainer. The effects of the NaCl content on the temperature profiles, phase structure, volume change, density, pore distribution and antioxidation behavior were investigated. The results showed that the sintered product of Co and Al powders was solely Co-Al intermetallic, while the final product was Co4Al13 with an abundant Co phase and minor Co2Al5 and Co-Al phases after added NaCl dissolved out, due to the high Tig and low Tc. The open porosity of sintered Co-Al compound was sensibly improved to 79.5% after 80 wt.% of the added NaCl dissolved out. Moreover, porous Co-Al intermetallic exhibited an inherited pore structure, including large pores originating from the dissolution of NaCl and small pores in the matrix caused by volume expansion due to TE reaction. The interconnected large and small pores make the open cellular Co-Al intermetallic suitable for broad application prospects in liquid–gas separation and filtration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Aromatic Silica Gel derivatives were prepared from the preparation of the Dasanium salt in a cooled acid medium, and mixed with the silica gel salt to obtain organic silica ; and from the Infrared Spectrum (FT - IR) clear values of the aromatic ring at the stress stretch (ѵC = C) at the range (1515 – 1645) cm-1. Also, the images of the Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) showed clear distances in the material in a partially deformed and crystalline form after the embellishment process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Behavioral plasticity allows animals to modulate their behavior based on experience and environmental conditions. Caenorhabditis elegans exhibits experience-dependent changes in its behavioral responses to various modalities of sensory cues, including odorants, salts, temperature, and mechanical stimulations. Most of these forms of behavioral plasticity, such as adaptation, habituation, associative learning, and imprinting, are shared with other animals. The C. elegans nervous system is considerably tractable for experimental studies—its function can be characterized and manipulated with molecular genetic methods, its activity can be visualized and analyzed with imaging approaches, and the connectivity of its relatively small number of neurons are well described. Therefore, C. elegans provides an opportunity to study molecular, neuronal, and circuit mechanisms underlying behavioral plasticity that are either conserved in other animals or unique to this species. These findings reveal insights into how the nervous system interacts with the environmental cues to generate behavioral changes with adaptive values. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite extensive works have been devoted to study the scale inhibition behavior, the performance of inhibitors is still not fully understood. In this paper, we present a laboratory study to elucidate the impact of water composition on the performance of some commonly used phosphonate and polymeric calcium carbonate scale inhibitors, in highly supersaturated brines at high temperature. Calcium tolerance inhibitor chemicals with various molecular structures are studied using dynamic scale loop test method at 150 °C. Brine composition is varied by changing the non-stoichiometry of scaling lattice ions, e.g., ( Ca 2 + ) / ( CO 3 2 − ) ratio, over a wide range. Test results indicate that the effectiveness of inhibitors can be significantly changed by the scaling ion ratio. In general, the efficacy of inhibitors decreases significantly with calcium concentration in the test brine even at constant supersaturation state and temperature, and also the performance ranking of the different inhibitor chemistries can be changed with brine composition. This could be caused by the alternations of interactions between inhibitor molecules and the surface of calcium carbonate scale crystals. Findings from this study suggest that the effect of scaling ion ratio must be considered in scaling risk assessment and for the optimization of inhibitor treatment programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The application of saline solutions for surface coating is pertinent across multiple biomedical fields, various technological sectors, and industries, including agriculture. The drying of salt solution droplets is key to understanding and controlling morphological structures on surfaces. In this paper, we report the study of pattern formation from the evaporation of saline drops (NaCl, CsCl, and KCl) placed on pillars. Our findings indicate that regardless of saline concentration and type, the drying process can be categorized into three modes: stable, metastable, and unstable. In both the stable and metastable modes, the droplet fixes to the pillar during the drying process and ensuing pattern formation; however, the crucial distinction lies in the metastable mode, where the droplet additionally undergoes mass loss through fluid drainage from the walls of the pillars. Conversely, in the unstable drying mode, the droplet undergoes rapid collapse, leading to a substantial loss of mass. The distinct drying modes dictate the resulting patterns on the pillars. We employ measurements of configurational entropy and fractal dimension as quantitative metrics to assess the complexity, reproducibility, and similarity of patterns. The texture analysis reveals that, at low concentrations of both CsCl and KCl, significant differences emerge among the patterns produced by the different drying modes, especially highlighting differences in patterns of the stable drying mode. Finally, we analyze fertilizer deposition patterns to prove that all three drying modes can occur in complex fluids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The standard rate of sodium removal in adult anuric patients on continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) is 7.5 g/L of ultrafiltration volume (UFV). Although automated PD (APD) is widely used in pediatric patients, no attempt has yet been made to estimate sodium removal in APD. Methods: The present, retrospective cohort study included pediatric patients with APD who were managed at Tokyo Metropolitan Children's Medical Center between July 2010 and November 2017. The patients underwent a peritoneal equilibrium test (PET) at our hospital. Sodium removal per UFV was calculated by peritoneal function and dwell time using samples from patients on APD with 1- and 2-h dwell effluent within three months of PET and 4- and 10-h dwell effluent at PET. Results: In total, 217 samples from 18 patients were included, with 63, 81, and 73 of the samples corresponding to the High [H], High-average [HA], and Low-average [LA] PET category, respectively. Sodium removal per UFV (g/L in salt equivalent) for dwell times of one, two, four, and ten hours was 5.2, 8.8, 8.0, and 11.5 for PET [H], 5.3, 5.8, 5.6, and 8.1 for PET [HA], and 4.6, 5.1, 5.1, and 7.1 for PET [LA], respectively. Conclusions: Sodium removal per UFV in pediatric APD was less than the standard adult CAPD and tended to be lower with shorter dwell times, leading to sodium accumulation. Therefore, salt intake should be restricted in combination with one or more long daytime dwells, especially in anuric patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To comprehensively investigate the impact of chloride salt erosion on the multiscale bonding behavior between asphalt and aggregate, atomic force microscopy (AFM) and pull-off tests were employed. A thorough study was conducted on the microsurface morphology, nanoscale surface roughness, microsurface energy, and macro pull-off strength between asphalt and aggregate under different chloride salt concentrations. Furthermore, the relationship between the microscopic structural characteristics of asphalt and macroscopic bonding performance was analyzed. The results revealed that, except for the crumb rubber (CR) modified asphalt, the surface of asphalt exhibited an alternation of peaks and valleys forming a beelike structure both before and after chloride salt erosion. The erosion caused the reaggregation of asphalt surface particles, resulting in prominent nano-protrusions and white spots, thereby increasing the surface height and roughness of asphalt. In chloride salt solutions, the infiltration of ions and water molecules into the asphalt may lead to irregular depressions and pits on the surface, consequently reducing the surface energy of the asphalt. This further diminished the effective contact area between the asphalt and aggregates, forming microscopic voids and subsequently weakening the bonding strength at the asphalt-aggregate interface. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Searching for new alternatives to commercialize pork from entire male pigs that could be affected by a boar taint sensory defect would be adequate. In this study, two different marinade mixtures (additives, salt, white wine plus different spices for mixture 1 and 2) were injected into pork loin pieces from castrated (C1 and C2) and entire male pigs (E1 and E2) with a high boar taint level (5.51 µg.g−1 AND and 0.73 µg.g−1 SKA) to evaluate their effect on the physicochemical and sensory quality of pork, and to assess their boar taint masking properties. To achieve this, physicochemical and sensory analyses with trained panellists were carried out. Marinated meat showed some differences in colour and a reduction in cooking losses. Mixture 2 achieved the best boar taint masking effect, due to spices content mainly nutmeg and ginger, and other ingredients such as white wine. In conclusion, marinating pork from entire male pigs can contribute to achieving an acceptable quality standard. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to investigate the effect of NaCl solution with different concentrations on impact-sliding fretting corrosion behavior of Inconel 690TT steam generator heat transfer tubes. Design/methodology/approach: The optical 3D profiler was used to measure the wear profile and calculated the wear volume. Corrosion behavior was studied using open circuit potential monitoring and potentiodynamic polarization testing. The morphologies and elemental distributions of wear scars were analyzed using scanning electron microscopy and energy-dispersive spectroscopy. The synergism of wear and corrosion was analyzed according to the ASTM G119 standard. Findings: The corrosion tendency reflected by OCP and the corrosion current calculated by Tafel both increased with the increase of NaCl concentration. The total volume loss of the material increased with concentration, and it was known from the synergism that the volume loss caused by corrosion-enhanced wear accounted for the largest proportion, while the wear-enhanced corrosion also made a greater contribution to volume loss than tangential fretting corrosion. Through the analysis of the material morphologies and synergism of wear and corrosion, the damage mechanism was elucidated. Originality/value: The research findings can provide reference for impact-sliding fretting corrosion behavior of Inconel 690TT heat transfer tubes in NaCl solution with different concentrations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Effect concentrations of ammonia, nickel, sodium chloride, and potassium chloride from short‐term 7‐day tests were compared to those from standard chronic 28‐day toxicity tests with juvenile mussels (fatmucket, Lampsilis siliquoidea) to evaluate the sensitivities of the 7‐day tests. The effect concentrations for nickel (59 µg Ni/L), chloride (316–519 mg Cl/L, a range from multiple tests), and potassium (15 mg K/L) obtained from the 7‐day tests were within a range of effect concentrations for each corresponding chemical in the 28‐day tests (41–91 µg Ni/L, 251–>676 mg Cl/L, 15–23 mg K/L), whereas the 7‐day ammonia effect concentration (0.40 mg/L total ammonia nitrogen; TAN) was up to 3.3‐fold greater than the 28‐day effect concentrations (0.12–0.36 mg TAN/L) but with overlapped 95% confidence limits. These results indicate that the 7‐day tests produced similar estimates compared to the 28‐day tests. Further studies are needed to evaluate the 7‐day test sensitivity using additional chemicals with different modes of toxic action. Environ Toxicol Chem 2024;43:2020–2025. Published 2024. This article is a U.S. Government work and is in the public domain in the USA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the localized corrosion susceptibility of AA2050‐T84, AA2198‐T851, and AA2024‐T3 alloys was compared by immersion in three test solutions, specifically sodium chloride solution (3.5% NaCl), EXCO solution, according to ASTM G34‐18, and a solution for intergranular corrosion (IGC) test recommended by ASTM G110‐15 and via scanning vibrating electrode technique (SVET). The results showed higher susceptibility of AA2050‐T84 alloy to all types of corrosion tested compared to the other studied 2XXX series alloys. Corrosion penetration was deeper in the AA2050‐T84 due to its microstructural characteristics as a difference in the micrometric Cu‐Rich intermetallic particle distribution on the surface and related to the distribution of the T1 (Al2CuLi) phase. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Alopecia areata (AA) is a recurrent immune‐mediated disorder causing hair loss without any scarring being present. It affects hairs on the head or other parts of the body and can occur at any age and in both genders. It seems that AA is associated with a higher rate of psychological disorders resulting from hair loss and the esthetic and social repercussions of it. Common treatments like corticosteroids do not work for every patient and recent treatment options focusing on the immunologic mechanisms like tofacitinib have shown some promising results. Methods: It's a retrospective study on patients with AA, AT, AU taking oral tofacitinib as a treatment for at least 6 months. Scalp hair loss was assessed before treatment and at each visit using the Severity of Alopecia Tool (SALT) score. Results: Of 97 cases, 69.1% demonstrated over 50% SALT score improvement, with 44.3% having 90% or more decrease in SALT score. Patients who suffered from patchy AA were more responsive compared to patients with AT and AU subtypes and had a greater percent change in SALT score. Tofacitinib was tolerated quite well and no significant adverse events were reported. Conclusions: Tofacitinib should be taken into consideration as an efficacious treatment option for patients with AA, AT and AU. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To determine the efficacy of sodium chloride (NaCl) 5% drops in comparison to 6% ointment and study tear Osmolarity as an objective measure correlating with clinical findings in the treatment of corneal edema. This is a prospective, randomized, interventional, open-label, crossover study of 40 eyes of 40 patients with corneal edema due to Bullous keratopathy and Fuchs endothelial dystrophy. Subjects were divided into 2 groups by simple randomization: group A received NaCl 5% drops and group B received NaCl 6% ointment. Both treatments were administered four times daily for seven days. Subsequently, after a 1-week wash-out period, switch over of treatment was done. Central corneal thickness (CCT) and tear osmolarity were primarily efficacy variables. Baseline parameters were comparable. The median reduction in CCT from baseline (706.7 ± 58.41 μm), at 6 hours with NaCl 5% drops was 23 μm (-27, 74) and that with NaCl6% ointment was 37.5 μm (-7, 85). The reduction in CCT was more with 6% ointment (p = 0.013). The difference in reduction in CCT between two treatments at one week was not statistically significant, although there was a substantial reduction in thickness with each treatment individually. The change in tear osmolarity from the baseline at 2 Hours with both NaCl5% drops and 6% ointment was significant, and it remained so till 6 h. Side-effects such as stickiness, stinginess, blurring, and foreign body sensation were more with 6% eye ointment. Topical NaCl 6% eye ointment in QID dosage is more effective than NaCl 5% drops in the medical management of corneal edema. In patients symptomatically intolerant to ointment, NaCl 5% eye drops may be prescribed as an effective option. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]