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Translation abstract Slimming cure for severely damaged supports in underground parking in BonnBeneath the Bundesstraße 56 in Bonn, there is an underground parking garage that spans three sub‐levels and offers 425 parking spaces. Access is available via Annagraben street and a ramp under the Sterntorhaus. A tram line runs above the underground garage. Constructed in the 1960s, the garage supports loads from heavy traffic and the tram through massive columns into the ground. Due to significant contamination of the concrete with chlorides, especially in the columns, extensive refurbishment of the parking garage is required. Moreover, the concrete coverage, particularly on the columns, is significantly insufficient. The parking space widths of 2.20 m are very user‐unfriendly, refurbishment by increasing the concrete coverage is not feasible. For this reason, it has been decided to completely remove the affected columns, total 154 pieces. and reconstruct with smaller dimensions. The recalculation of the top reinforced concrete ceiling was verified according to the “Guideline for the Recalculation of Existing Road Bridges.” Traffic load and earth overfill were precisely measured. The deck‘s sufficient load‐bearing capacity was proven. New columns will be connected bluntly and not monolithically with the existing decks, which requires a recalculation of the concrete structure. A precast solution was discarded due to insertion problems. Due to fire protection requirements, a reinforced concrete solution was preferred. The investigation shows that the proposed solution is viable and complies with fire safety standards. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Translation abstract Life cycle assessment of repair variants according to TR‐IH depending on the degree of damageThe aim of this publication is the life cycle assessment of repair measures acc. to TR‐IH (Technical guideline Maintenance of concrete structures) on the basis of a case study. Here, a fictitious two‐storey underground car park is considered, the floor slab of which is uncoated and whose false ceiling has numerous separation cracks. On the basis of common chloride diffusion models, the temporal chloride penetration into the floor slab and thus the temporal development of the degree of damage can be estimated. Depending on the degree of damage, permissible repair methods are selected acc. to TR‐IH and their necessary individual measures are defined, which in turn are linked to Global Warming Potential (GWP). Thus, depending on the age of the component at the time of repair, the GWP for various repair procedures can be determined. In a further step, practical assumptions for operation and maintenance are made so that the GWP of the repair procedures can be determined over the remaining service life depending on the time of repair. The calculation results show that early repairs lead to a low GWP. In addition, careful repair procedures without major interventions in the structure (methods 7.7, 7.8 or 8.3) lead particularly to low GWP. If one compares Cathodic Protection (CP) with method 7.2, CP is linked to a significantly lower GWP for crack repair, or if electricity from renewable energies is used during service life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Salinity tolerance requires coordinated responses encompassing salt exclusion in roots and tissue/cellular compartmentation of salt in leaves. We investigated the possible control points for salt ions transport in roots and tissue tolerance to Na+ and Cl– in leaves of two contrasting mungbean genotypes, salt‐tolerant Jade AU and salt‐sensitive BARI Mung‐6, grown in nonsaline and saline (75 mM NaCl) soil. Cryo‐SEM X‐ray microanalysis was used to determine concentrations of Na, Cl, K, Ca, Mg, P, and S in various cell types in roots related to the development of apoplastic barriers, and in leaves related to photosynthetic performance. Jade AU exhibited superior salt exclusion by accumulating higher [Na] in the inner cortex, endodermis, and pericycle with reduced [Na] in xylem vessels and accumulating [Cl] in cortical cell vacuoles compared to BARI Mung‐6. Jade AU maintained higher [K] in root cells than BARI Mung‐6. In leaves, Jade AU maintained lower [Na] and [Cl] in chloroplasts and preferentially accumulated [K] in mesophyll cells than BARI Mung‐6, resulting in higher photosynthetic efficiency. Salinity tolerance in Jade AU was associated with shoot Na and Cl exclusion, effective regulation of Na and Cl accumulation in chloroplasts, and maintenance of high K in root and leaf mesophyll cells. Summary statement: Salinity tolerance in mungbean is related to its ability to intercept Na and Cl in roots, thereby reducing Na and Cl transport to shoot, effectively regulate Na and Cl accumulation in chloroplasts, and maintain high K in root and leaf mesophyll cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

All terrestrial vertebrate life must transition from aquatic gas exchange in the embryonic environment to aerial or pulmonary respiration at birth. In addition to being able to breathe air, neonates must possess functional sensory feedback systems for maintaining acid–base balance. Respiratory neurons in the brainstem act as pH sensors that can adjust breathing to regulate systemic pH. The central pH sensitivity of breathing‐related motor output develops over the embryonic period in the zebra finch (Taeniopygia guttata). Due to the key role of chloride ions in electrochemical stability and developmental plasticity, we tested chloride's role in the development of central pH sensitivity. We blocked gamma‐aminobutyric acid‐A receptors and cation‐chloride cotransport that subtly modulated the low‐pH effects on early breathing biorhythms. Further, chloride‐free artificial cerebrospinal fluid altered the pattern and timing of breathing biorhythms and blocked the stimulating effect of acidosis in E12–14 brainstems. Early and middle stage embryos exhibited rebound plasticity in brainstem motor outputs during low‐pH treatment, which was eliminated by chloride‐free solution. Results show that chloride modulates low‐pH sensitivity and rebound plasticity in the zebra finch embryonic brainstem, but work is needed to determine the cellular and circuit mechanisms that control functional chloride balance during acid–base disturbances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[FeFe] hydrogenases demonstrate remarkable catalytic efficiency in hydrogen evolution and oxidation processes. However, susceptibility of these enzymes to oxygen‐induced degradation impedes their practical deployment in hydrogen‐production devices and fuel cells. Recent investigations into the oxygen‐stable (Hinact) state of the H‐cluster revealed its inherent capacity to resist oxygen degradation. Herein, we present findings on Cl‐ and SH‐bound [2Fe‐2S] complexes, bearing relevance to the oxygen‐stable state within a biological context. A characteristic attribute of these complexes is the terminal Cl−/SH− ligation to the iron center bearing the CO bridge. Structural analysis of the t‐Cl demonstrates a striking resemblance to the Hinact state of DdHydAB and CbA5H. The t‐Cl/t‐SH exhibit reversible oxidation, with both redox species, electronically, being the first biomimetic analogs to the Htrans and Hinact states. These complexes exhibit notable resistance against oxygen‐induced decomposition, supporting the potential oxygen‐resistant nature of the Htrans and Hinact states. The swift reductive release of the Cl‐/SH‐group demonstrates its labile and kinetically controlled binding. The findings garnered from these investigations offer valuable insights into properties of the enzymatic O2‐stable state, and key factors governing deactivation and reactivation conversion. This work contributes to the advancement of bio‐inspired molecular catalysts and the integration of enzymes and artificial catalysts into H2‐evolution devices and fuel‐cell applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Durable and sustainable corrosion protection of reinforcing steel in waterway structures Corrosion damage due to hitherto widely unknown damage mechanisms, the critical review of previous design principles, but also new developments in building materials are leading to a reorientation in the design of measures to ensure the durability of hydraulic engineering structures with regard to reinforcing steel corrosion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

New DGZfP guideline B14: Quantification of chloride in concrete using LIBS In the maintenance of reinforced concrete structures, the chloride content in the concrete is an important parameter in determining suitable repair measures. Established methods to date are based on wet chemical analysis of concrete samples; drill flour or ground segments of drill cores. These methods provide one chloride content per depth segment, which is associated with a strong homogenisation of the sample, resulting in a loss of details of the chloride differences in the range of a few millimetres. An alternative method is the laser‐induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS), which not only enables the quantitative, spatially resolved determination of the chloride content in relation to the cement mass, but also provides detailed information on the distribution of many other chemical elements simultaneously. Usually the spatial resolution is in the range of a few millimetres but can be increased to 0.1 mm or smaller if needed. The new guideline B14 "Quantification of chloride in concrete using laser induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS)" of the German Society for Non‐Destructive Testing (DGZfP) regulates and standardises for the first time the procedure to ensure a reliable and reproducible determination of chloride contents using LIBS. This article introduces the guideline and illustrates the potential of LIBS for issues in concrete maintenance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The way the central nervous system (CNS) responds to diverse stimuli is contingent upon the specific brain state of the individual, including sleep and wakefulness. Despite the wealth of readout parameters and data delineating the brain states, the primary mechanisms are yet to be identified. Here we highlight the role of astrocytes, with a specific emphasis on chloride (Cl−) homeostasis as a modulator of brain states. Neuronal activity is regulated by the concentration of ions that determine excitability. Astrocytes, as the CNS homeostatic cells, are recognised for their proficiency in maintaining dynamic homeostasis of ions, known as ionostasis. Nevertheless, the contribution of astrocyte‐driven ionostasis to the genesis of brain states or their response to sleep‐inducing pharmacological agents has been overlooked. Our objective is to underscore the significance of astrocytic Cl− homeostasis, elucidating how it may underlie the modulation of brain states. We endeavour to contribute to a comprehensive understanding of the interplay between astrocytes and brain states. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Improving river water quality requires a thorough understanding of the relationship between constituent concentration and water discharge during runoff events (i.e., C‐Q hysteresis), which may be strongly non‐linear. Analysis of C‐Q hysteresis on large temporal scales provides unprecedented insights into event dynamics and long‐term concentration trends in surface and groundwater. Despite the increasing availability of time series data on water quality, there are still limited quantitative modeling frameworks that enable this analysis. Here, we combine Bayesian modeling and an existing mass balance to model long‐term C‐Q hysteresis dynamics in multi‐decade constituent concentration and water discharge time series. We focus on the case study of chloride and demonstrate that our model can simultaneously characterize the size and rotation of C‐Q hysteresis, and diffuse and low‐flow inputs to constituent concentration using only time‐series data from the river Rhine. Over 28 years of monitoring, we find that chloride exhibits a dominant clockwise dilution behavior that does not vary considerably under different hydro‐climatic conditions, hinting to similar mobilization mechanisms over time. We also show decreasing chloride concentrations in surface and groundwater, due to the cessation of mining activities in the Rhine. Our approach uses uncertainty estimates to show the range within which model parameter values lie, aiding decision‐makers in a robust assessment of river water quality. We conclude that Bayesian modeling of C‐Q hysteresis provides a powerful framework for investigating long‐term contamination dynamics that can be extended to several constituents to find factors controlling their export, ultimately suggesting mitigation measures for river contamination. Plain Language Summary: River water quality is under continuous pressure from increased constituent concentrations from human activities. To reduce such pressure, it is essential to understand the relationship between constituent concentration and water discharge during runoff events (i.e., C‐Q hysteresis). Although C‐Q hysteresis is often studied on individual events, its analysis in the long term can provide invaluable insights into event dynamics and long‐term concentration trends. This study presents a modeling framework that integrates time series of constituent concentration and water discharge with an already existing mass balance to model and investigate long‐term C‐Q hysteresis. Our framework allows for simultaneous characterization of the size and rotation of hysteresis, together with diffuse and low‐flow inputs to constituent concentration using already available time‐series data. By testing our approach on chloride over 28 years in the river Rhine, we reveal that chloride exhibits a dominant clockwise dilution behavior due to direct runoff dilution in groundwater and that its concentration has strongly decreased due to the cessation of mining activities in the Rhine. Further studies should consider extending this analysis to several constituents to find factors controlling their export, ultimately suggesting mitigation measures for river contamination. Key Points: We propose a Bayesian model to study C‐Q hysteresis in the long term and we test it on a 28‐year time series of chloride in the river RhineMerging mass balance and observations with Bayesian modeling allows extracting relevant hydrochemical properties of C‐Q hysteresisWe reveal a prevalent clockwise dilution behavior and decreasing trends of diffuse and low‐flow inputs for chloride due to mining cessation [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anode materials based on metal oxychlorides hold promise in addressing electrode dissolution challenges in aqueous‐based chloride ion batteries (CIBs). However, their structural instability following chloride ion deintercalation can lead to rapid degradation and capacity fading. This paper investigates a cobalt‐doped Sb4O5Cl2‐graphene (Co‐Sb4O5Cl2@GO) composite anode for aqueous‐based CIBs. It exhibits significantly enhanced discharge capacity of 82.3 mAh g−1 after 200 cycles at 0.3 A g−1; while, the undoped comparison is only 23.5 mAh g−1 in the same condition. It also demonstrated with a long‐term capacity retention of 72.8 % after 1000 cycles (65.5 mAh g−1) and a favorable rate performance of 25 mAh g−1 at a high current density of 2 A g−1. Undertaken comprehensive studies via in‐situ experiments and DFT calculations, the cobalt (Co) dopant is demonstrated as the crucial role to enhance the lifetime of Sb4O5Cl2‐based anodes. It is found that, the Co dopant improves electronic conductivity and the diffusion of chloride ions beside increases the structural stability of Sb4O5Cl2 crystal. Thus, this element doping strategy holds promise for advancing the field of Sb4O5Cl2‐based anodes for aqueous‐based CIBs, and insights gain from this study also offer valuable knowledge to develop high‐performance electrode materials for electrochemical deionization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Corrosion processes of steel in concrete contaminated with chlorides take place as macrocell corrosion as well as self‐corrosion (i.e., microcell corrosion). While macrocell corrosion can be detected by element current measurement, self‐corrosion cannot be precisely determined electrochemically. This results in deviations in corrosion investigations between the mass losses calculated coulometrically from macrocell current measurements and the actual, corrosion‐related gravimetric mass losses. This is relevant in practice as part of corrosion monitoring. In the following, a simple approach is presented by considering this self‐corrosion current mathematically in the macrocell current measurement. The empirical regression functions determined for this purpose can be applied to a large number of different influencing parameters and allow the determination of the cumulative steel degradation at time‐varying macrocell current densities under consideration of different safety levels. This allows a much more accurate estimation of the actual corrosion‐induced mass losses during corrosion monitoring than previously possible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heterogeneous chemical cycles of pyrogenic nitrogen and halides influence tropospheric ozone and affect the stratosphere during extreme Pyrocumulonimbus (PyroCB) events. We report field‐derived N2O5 uptake coefficients, γ(N2O5), and ClNO2 yields, φ(ClNO2), from two aircraft campaigns observing fresh smoke in the lower and mid troposphere and processed/aged smoke in the upper troposphere and lower stratosphere (UTLS). Derived φ(ClNO2) varied across the full 0–1 range but was typically <0.5 and smallest in a PyroCB (<0.05). Derived γ(N2O5) was low in agricultural smoke (0.2–3.6 × 10−3), extremely low in mid‐tropospheric wildfire smoke (0.1 × 10−3), but larger in PyroCB processed smoke (0.7–5.0 × 10−3). Aged biomass burning aerosol in the UTLS had a higher γ(N2O5) of 17 × 10−3 that increased with sulfate and liquid water, but that was 1–2 orders of magnitude lower than values for aqueous sulfuric aerosol used in stratospheric models. Plain Language Summary: The injection of reactive material into Earth's atmosphere from fires affects atmospheric composition at regional and hemispheric scales. Reported stratospheric ozone depletion during extreme events, such as the 2020 Australian wildfires, illustrates one example of fire impacts and the role of heterogeneous (gas‐particle) processes. We report field quantification of rates and product yields from airborne observations of smoke. Extremely slow heterogeneous reaction rates on young smoke increase with transport and aging, but upper atmospheric values are still a factor of 10 slower than parameterizations used in stratospheric models. Heterogeneous production of ClNO2, a major lower atmospheric chlorine activation pathway, may be active on biomass burning aerosol in the upper atmosphere. Key Points: ClNO2 formation is active on biomass burning (BB) particles but decreases with transport to the upper troposphere and lower stratosphere (UTLS)N2O5 uptake coefficients are low on young BB smoke and increase with transport through a PyroCB and UTLS agingN2O5 uptake coefficients on aged BB particles in the UTLS are significantly lower than those used in model parameterizations [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this paper is to present the methodology used to validate the threshold levels of durability indicators from data acquired from existing reinforced concrete structures that may present corrosion problems resulting from carbonation or chloride ingress. This study was conducted in the framework of the French National Project PERFDUB in close collaboration with the MODEVIE ANR project. Durability tests form the basis of a performance‐based approach for the durability of concrete structures, and in order to set the threshold level for each of these durability indicators, it is important to take into account the experience feedback that can be obtained from the actual behavior of existing structures. This paper presents the investigations carried out on eight reinforced concrete structures, all of them having an age well in excess of 50 years, and the main data gathered on some relevant durability and lifetime indicators. Based on all these data, predictive models of carbonation and chloride penetration are applied in order to validate the threshold levels to be adopted for the durability indicators, and several other conclusions are drawn. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Freshwater chloride concentrations have been increasing in North American surface waters for decades, largely driven by increases in the use of road salt, which is commonly applied as a deicer. In Chicago, thousands of tons of road salt are applied to roadways each winter, and increases in surface water chloride concentrations have been noted across the region since the mid‐1960s. While much of the applied salt runs directly off to nearby waterways during snowmelt events, some percolates to groundwater, affecting public supply wells and increasing the amount of chloride released to streams as baseflow during the non‐salting season. In the present study we have developed a spatially distributed chloride mass balance across the Chicago Metropolitan Statistical Area (CMSA) for a 30‐year period (1990–2020) to better our understanding of long‐term chloride fluxes and storage. Our results show that inputs of road salt to the region increased by 33% between 1990 and 2020. During this same period, riverine chloride loads across the region increased by 60%. Despite these increases in riverine chloride export, we find that chloride is accumulating in CMSA groundwater at a rate of ∼480 ktons year−1. We show that shallow aquifers, <30 m, exhibit only seasonal chloride storage, without long‐term accumulation. In contrast, at depths below 30 m, we find chloride concentrations to be increasing over time, indicating that legacy chloride is accumulating at deeper depths in CMSA groundwater. The present results highlight the importance of legacy chloride to long‐term water quality dynamics in North American cities. Plain Language Summary: The amount of salt used on roads to melt snow and ice has been increasing for many years in North America. This salt can make its way into nearby surface waters and groundwater, and can cause problems for public water supplies and aquatic ecosystems. In Chicago, where thousands of tons of road salt are used each winter, researchers have found that the amount of salt entering rivers has increased by 60% since 1990. However, they have also found that a lot of the salt is accumulating in the deeper parts of the groundwater system, which means that even if less salt is used in the future, it will take a long time for the system to recover. This study highlights the importance of considering the long‐term effects of salt use on water quality in cities. Key Points: Road salt application in Chicago increased by ∼30% between 1990 and 2020Downstream chloride export from the Chicago region to the Illinois River totals ∼1,000 ktons year−1Groundwater is a major sink for legacy chloride in the Chicago region at depths below 30 m [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of three aqueous chloride salts, NaCl, KCl and LiCl, on the photoreforming of glycerol over TiO2, and Pt promoted TiO2 catalysts, has been investigated. At concentrations between 0.01 to 0.05 M an enhancement in activity over the TiO2 catalyst by a factor of ~10 can be ascribed to the presence of the cation, with the effect occurring at increasingly high concentrations of salt in the order Li

ClC‐6 and ClC‐7 are closely related, intracellular Cl−/H+ antiporters belonging to the CLC family of channels and transporters. They localize to acidic late endosomes and lysosomes and probably function in ionic homeostasis of these contiguous compartments. ClC‐7 transport function requires association with the accessory protein Ostm1, whereas ClC‐6 transport does not. To elucidate their roles in endo‐lysosomes, we measured Cl−‐ and pH‐dependences of over‐expressed wild‐type ClC‐6 and ClC‐7, as well as disease‐associated mutants, using high‐resolution recording protocols. Lowering extracellular Cl− (corresponding to luminal Cl− in endo‐lysosomes) reduced ClC‐6 currents, whereas it increased transport activity of ClC‐7/Ostm1. Low extracellular Cl− activated ClC‐7/Ostm 1 under acidic extracellular conditions, as well as under conditions of low intracellular chloride. Activation is conserved in ClC‐7Y713C, a variant displaying disrupted PI(3,5)P2 inhibition. Detailed biophysical analysis of disease‐associated ClC‐6 and ClC‐7 gain‐of‐function (GoF) variants, ClC‐6Y553C and ClC‐7Y713C, and the ClC‐7Y577C and ClC‐6Y781C correlates, identified additional functional nuances distinguishing ClC‐6 and ClC‐7. ClC‐7Y577C recapitulated GoF produced by ClC‐6Y553C. ClC‐6Y781C displayed transport activation qualitatively similar to ClC‐7Y713C, although current density did not differ from that of wild‐type ClC‐6. Finally, rClC‐7R760Q, homologous to hClC‐7R762Q, an osteopetrosis variant with fast gating kinetics, appeared indifferent to extracellular Cl−, identifying altered Cl− sensitivity as a plausible mechanism underlying disease. Collectively, the present studies underscore the distinct roles of ClC‐6 and ClC‐7 within the context of their respective localization to late endosomes and lysosomes. In particular, we suggest the atypical inhibition of ClC‐7 by luminal Cl− serves to limit excessive intraluminal Cl− accumulation. Key points: ClC‐6 and ClC‐7 are late endosomal and lysosomal 2 Cl−/1 H+ exchangers, respectively. When targeted to the plasma membrane, both activate slowly at positive voltages.ClC‐6 activity is decreased in low extracellular (i.e. luminal) chloride, whereas ClC‐7 is activated by low luminal chloride, even at acidic pH.The functional gain‐of‐function phenotypes of the ClC‐6 and ClC‐7 disease mutations ClC‐6Y553C and ClC‐7Y715C are maintained when introduced in their respective homologues, ClC‐7Y577C and ClC‐6Y781C, with all mutations retaining chloride dependence of the respective wild type (WT).An osteopetrosis mutation of ClC‐7 displaying fast gating kinetics (R762Q) was less sensitive to extracellular chloride compared to WT.The opposing substrate dependences of ClC‐6 and ClC‐7 Cl− / H+ exchangers point to non‐overlapping physiological functions, leading us to propose that inhibition of ClC‐7 by luminal chloride and protons serves to prevent osmotic stress imposed by hyper‐accumulation of chloride. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Kurzfassung: Die Bewehrungskorrosion reduziert die Lebensdauer von Bauwerken aus Stahlbeton maßgeblich. Eine Hauptursache sind Chloride aus Tausalzen oder Meerwasser, die in den Beton eindringen. Daher haben sich die Industriepartner instakorr GmbH, Massenberg GmbH, Mitsubishi Chemical Advanced Materials GmbH und Forschungspartner FH Münster sowie TU Dortmund zusammengeschlossen, um im Rahmen eines ZIM‐Forschungsprojektes den präventiven Schutz durch eine Chloridbarriere zu untersuchen. Die TU Dortmund führt innerhalb des Projektes Untersuchungen zu Mörtelzusammensetzungen durch und charakterisiert diese. Eine weitere Besonderheit ist der Nachhaltigkeitsaspekt, da recycelte Carbonfasern für die Steigerung der elektrischen Leitfähigkeit eingesetzt werden. Dafür kommen verschiedene Faserarten, ‐geometrien und ‐gehalte zum Einsatz. In dieser Veröffentlichung werden Ergebnisse aus der Definition und Variation der Parameter sowie Daten der Laborversuche gezeigt und die leistungsfähigsten Kombinationen im Hinblick auf den Einsatz in der Chloridbarriere dargestellt. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

When exposed to aggressive environments containing chlorides, the chlorine ion partially binds to the usual Portland cement mortar and changes its mineralogy. Chlorine ions entering the system displace sulfate from the monosulfoaluminate. Such systems form Kusel's salt at low chloride concentrations and Friedel's salt at higher concentrations. Unbound chloride ions remain dangerous for reinforcing steel, which diffuse deep into the concrete and destroy the passivating layer on the reinforcement. To assess the protective properties of concrete in relation to metal reinforcement, it is proposed to investigate the process of displacement of the diffusion front in cement composites of various compositions. It is also important to study changes in such characteristics as porosity and filtration properties, which significantly affect the penetration depth of an aggressive medium. The study of the structure, mineral and chemical composition is carried out in layers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Kurzfassung: Die Dauerhaftigkeit von Betonbauwerken wird in den aktuellen Regelwerken im Wesentlichen mit deskriptiven Regeln sichergestellt. DIN EN 1992, DIN EN 206‐1, DIN EN 13670 und DIN 1045 Teil 2 bis 4 fassen alle Anforderungen zusammen. Zwischen den Ergebnissen von Lebensdauerbetrachtungen auf der Grundlage im Labor ermittelter Dauerhaftigkeitskennwerte und des fib Modelcode einerseits und den in Deutschland aktuell gültigen deskriptiven Regeln des Betonbaus andererseits, konnten Widersprüche festgestellt werden. An dieser Stelle setzt das Projekt an, über welches hier berichtet wird. Um die auf der Basis des aktuellen Regelwerks realisierten Bauwerkszustände hinsichtlich Dauerhaftigkeit einschätzen zu können, ist die Erfassung der Zuverlässigkeit eines repräsentativen Bauwerksbestandes, geplant und gebaut nach der aktuellen DIN 1045, besonders wichtig. In diesem Beitrag wird über die Untersuchung von fünf Ingenieurbauwerken (Brücken) berichtet. Die Nutzungsdauer der Bauwerke zum Zeitpunkt der Untersuchungen lag zwischen 10 und 15 Jahren. Ziel des Projektes ist es, Aussagen zur erreichten Material‐ und Ausführungsqualität sowie zur erreichbaren Nutzungsdauer der Bauwerke machen zu können. Zur Beantwortung dieser Fragen wurden Materialprüfungen am Bauwerk und im Labor durchgeführt. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Peatlands are environments that rely mainly on high water levels to accumulate organic matter. Depending on the chemical species observed, the lowering of the water table can change biogeochemical equilibriums, with various impacts. This paper aims to understand the effect of shallow groundwater seasonality on chloride concentrations in a French riparian peatland by combining water table monitoring, geochemical and stable water isotopes analysis. Water table levels and groundwater samples were recorded and collected for 3 years, every 2 months, in nine observation wells and the nearby river. Chloride concentrations were highly variable in space and time, ranging from 10 to 100 mg L−1. They are shown to be related to the water table dynamics, which are closely linked to the life cycle of the local vegetation. These dynamics were characterized by a significant drawdown between June and October due to plant transpiration and a fast recovering period just after its senescence. Results show that the chloride accumulates within the unsaturated zone during the drying phase and is solubilized back into the groundwater during the rewetting phase, increasing its concentration. Moreover, the water table rises in autumn with various dynamics according to the location in the peatland, which induces some special differences in hydraulic gradients. Such gradients allow lateral transfers from zones of fast recovery to zones of slow recovery, where year‐to‐year chloride accumulation was observed. These complex 3D processes preclude the use of chloride to constrain how the peatland hydrogeological system functions. Conversely, the use of stable water isotopes in this work emphasizes the importance of the river's role during the summer as a water supplier to counterbalance vegetation transpiration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Heart failure‐associated hypochloremia can be depletional from diuretics or dilutional from water retention. Serum osmolality reflects water balance but has not been evaluated in dogs with heart disease. Hypothesis: To determine if serum osmolality is related to heart disease stage and amount of mathematical correction of serum chloride (Cl−) concentrations in healthy dogs and dogs with myxomatous mitral valve degeneration (MMVD). Animals: Seventy‐seven dogs (20 healthy, 25 Stage B MMVD, 32 Stage C/D MMVD). Methods: Serum Cl− concentrations were mathematically corrected. Osmolality was calculated (calOsm) and directly measured by freezing point depression (dmOsm) and compared by Bland‐Altman analysis. Biochemical variables and osmolality were compared among healthy, Stage B, and Stage C/D dogs. Correlations were explored between osmolality and biochemical variables. Median and range are presented. P <.05 was considered significant. Results: The calOsm was different among groups (P =.003), with Stage B (310 mOsm/kg; 306, 316) and C/D dogs (312 mOsm/kg; 308, 319) having higher calOsm than healthy dogs (305 mOsm/kg; 302, 308). Osmolality methods were moderately correlated (P <.0001, rs =.46) but with proportional bias and poor agreement. The amount of Cl− correction was negatively correlated with calOsm (P <.0001, rs = −.78) and dmOsm (P =.004, rs = −.33). Serum bicarbonate concentration was negatively correlated with Cl− (P <.0001, rs = −.67). Conclusions and Clinical Importance: Dogs with Stage B and Stage C/D heart disease had higher calOsm than healthy dogs. Osmolality was inversely related to the amount of Cl− correction, which supports its use in assessing relative body water content. Poor agreement between calOsm and dmOsm prevents methodological interchange. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the last 30 years, many synthetic organic substances have been proposed as promising inhibitors to prevent chloride‐induced corrosion in reinforced concrete structures. Using molecular mechanics (MM) and molecular dynamics (MD) methods the formation of protective film on steel have been investigated at atomistic level considering different organic inhibitors, comparing the theoretical results with experimental data. In previous work, the interaction between chlorides and both dry and hydrated triethylenetetramine (TETA) film on hydroxylated γ‐FeOOH surface is studied. Using the same simulation protocol, the aim of this work is to investigate the interaction between the Cl− ions and the benzoate inhibitor film to understand how the corrosion process can be avoided. The dry benzoate film efficiently prevents the adsorption of chlorides on lepidocrocite (γ‐FeOOH) surface. At the same time the MD simulations show the hydrated benzoate film have a lower efficiency because some chlorides come into contact with the γ‐FeOOH surface, and moreover, at longer time they cause a depletion of organic inhibitors close to them, then an inhomogeneity in the exposed film. Not only the number of chlorides that penetrate through the protective film must be considered but also the stability of dry or hydrated protective film during the time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Embedded sensors operating within a reinforced concrete structure enable the timely detection of structural degradation causes, such as chloride ions present in the pore solution. The best communication protocol to use for inter‐device communication within the concrete structure would ideally be wireless such as an ultrasonic system. Concrete is a composite material which imposes constraints on ultrasonic transmission, especially when operating at frequencies above 100kHz where incident radiation is scattered by the aggregate. Furthermore, for an effective coupling mechanism, a liquid with high acoustic impedance is required to reduce energy reflection at the interface. This paper outlines the design, construction, and characterisation of a range of Piezoelectric Micromachined Ultrasonic Transducers (PMUTs) which are specifically designed to operate in liquids, at frequencies near or below 100kHz. The PMUT devices described in this paper have diaphragm diameters ranging between 550μm and 2,000μms which sizes are needed for PMUTs to resonate at the required low frequency. This paper outlines the device geometry calculations and the design and fabrication of the prototype devices. The resonant frequencies were determined using a laser vibrometer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Infrastructures in coastal areas are often prone to several hazards, and thus the elaboration of effective risk management plans in such zones are possible if all relevant threats are considered and analyzed. In this context, the assessment of the corrosion hazard attributable to airborne chlorides is of utmost importance since the resulting deterioration phenomena can heavily jeopardize both reliability and resilience of the infrastructures. Therefore, this contribution aims at proposing the preliminary version of a possible framework for the elaboration of corrosion hazard maps at regional scale for coastal areas, with focus on reinforced concrete bridges. The proposed approach encompasses three main steps. First, the relevant stock of infrastructures vulnerable to chloride‐induced corrosion is identified and quantified. This requires the collection of relevant features, such as construction type, position, and age. Environmental conditions are examined next, including data about sea waves and salinity, wind, temperature, humidity, rainfall, and chloride deposition rate. Finally, the corrosion hazard is estimated in probabilistic sense. The proposed methodology is presented together with the preliminary results obtained from a relevant case study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Epilepsy constitutes the most common paroxysmal manifestation of glucose transporter type 1 deficiency (G1D) and is generally considered medication‐refractory. It can also prove therapeutic diet‐resistant. We examined acetazolamide effects in G1D motivated by several longstanding and recent observations: First, the electrographic spike‐waves characteristic of absence seizures often resemble those of G1D and, since the 1950s, they have occasionally been treated successfully with acetazolamide, well before G1D was segregated from absence epilepsy as a distinct syndrome. Second, synaptic inhibitory neuron failure characterizes G1D and, in other experimental models, this can be ameliorated by drugs that modify cellular chloride gradient such as acetazolamide. Third, acetazolamide potently stimulates model cell glucose transport in vitro. Seventeen antiepileptic drug or therapeutic diet‐refractory individuals with G1D treated with acetazolamide were thus identified via medical record review complemented by worldwide individual survey. Acetazolamide was tolerated and decreased seizures in 76% of them, with 58% of all persons studied experiencing seizure reductions by more than one‐half, including those who first manifested myoclonic‐astatic epilepsy or infantile spams. Eighty‐eight percent of individuals with G1D continued taking acetazolamide for over 6 months, indicating sustained tolerability and efficacy. The results provide a novel avenue for the treatment and mechanistic investigation of G1D. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sichuan Basin of China is a typical underground brine enrichment area. In order to develop and utilize the brine resource, it is necessary to study the phase equilibria and phase diagram of brine systems. In this work, the phase equilibria of the quinary system NaCl + KCl + MgCl2 + SrCl2 + H2O (saturated with NaCl) at 308.2 K of the underground brines in Sichuan Basin are measured experimentally by isothermal dissolution equilibrium method. The phase diagram, water content diagram, and sodium chloride content change diagram of the quinary system with NaCl saturated are also drawn, respectively. The results show that the phase diagram of the quinary system contains three invariant points, seven isothermal solubility curves, and five solid crystal zones at 308.2 K. In the phase diagram, the KCl crystallization area is the largest, followed by SrCl2·6H2O, KCl·MgCl2·6H2O, and SrCl2·2H2O, while MgCl2·6H2O has the smallest crystallization area. Magnesium chloride in the quinary system has the largest solubility and has strong salting‐out effect on other salts. Furthermore, the unreported mixed ion interaction parameters θMg, Sr and ΨMg, Sr, Cl of Pitzer model are fitted, respectively. Consequently, the solubilities of the quinary system NaCl + KCl + MgCl2 + SrCl2 + H2O at 308.2 K are predicted using the Pitzer model, and the calculated phase diagram at 308.2 K is also plotted in detail. The predicted solubilities of the quinary system were in good agreement with the experimental solubilities. Finally, the study on the phase equilibrium of the quinary system can provide phase equilibrium data for the development and utilization of liquid mineral resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Whether the performance of carbon fiber‐reinforced polymer (CFRP)‐strengthened concrete structure is affected by chloride penetration is the key to the application under chloride environments. In this paper, the effect of chloride penetration on tensile properties of CFRP sheet, bond behavior of CFRP‐concrete, and flexural performance of CFRP‐strengthened concrete beams were studied. Results show that chloride penetration has no effect on the elastic modulus of the CFRP sheet. The tensile strength and elongation of the CFRP sheet decrease with the exposure time increase, reducing by 10% and 12.7% after 240 days. The interface failure of CFRP‐concrete is likely to occur on the concrete surface. As the exposure time increases, the interface failure develops toward the epoxy resin layer; the sliding stiffness and end slip of the interface decrease. However, the ultimate bearing capacity of the interface first increases and then decreases. As the exposure time increase, the effective bonding length gradually increases, and the failure mode of CFRP‐strengthened beams changes from bending failure to shear failure. After 120 days, the ultimate bearing capacity of the beams is significantly reduced. From three parts of materials, interfaces, and components to provide an evaluation basis for the use, regular detection, and life prediction of CFRP‐strengthened reinforced concrete beams under chloride environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We recently reported that strong activation of the optogenetic chloride pump, halorhodopsin leads to a secondary redistribution of K+ ions into the cell, through tonically open, "leak" K+ channels. Here we show that this effect is not unique to halorhodopsin but is also seen with activation of another electrogenic ion pump, archaerhodopsin. The two opsins differ however in the size of the rebound rise in extracellular potassium, [K+]o, after the end of activation, which is far larger with halorhodopsin than for archaerhodopsin activation. Multiple linear regression modeling indicates that the variance in the postillumination surge in [K+]o was explained both by the size of the preceding, illumination‐induced drop in [K+]o and also by the type of opsin. These data provide additional support for the hypothesis that intense chloride‐loading of cells, as occurs naturally following intense bursts of GABAergic synaptic bombardment, or artificially following halorhodopsin activation, is followed by extrusion of both Cl− and K+ coupled together. We discuss this with respect to the pattern of [K+]o rise that occurs at the onset of seizure‐like events. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Winter deicers are a major source of chloride contamination to shallow aquifers in northern latitudes. In the greater Chicago area of northeast Illinois, chloride has been accumulating for decades and in many places now exceeds the United States Environmental Protection Agency secondary standard of 250 mg/L. MODFLOW‐NWT and MT3D‐USGS were used to simulate the accumulation of chloride with 30 years of data in the shallow aquifer of Will County in northeast Illinois. This aquifer is composed of unconsolidated sediments, largely from glacial deposits, overlying a fractured dolomite bedrock. To calibrate to observed heads and chloride, the model needed refined geologic features, higher chloride concentrations on cells representing commercial or industrial lands, lower chloride concentrations on cells representing roads, and point source areas to speed chloride's emergence in the aquifer. These point sources are locally significant and could represent different anthropogenic or geologic features, such as municipal stormwater infrastructure. Future simulations indicate that chloride is not at steady state in the shallow aquifer and wells are at risk of exceeding the secondary standard if winter deicing applications are not reduced. It may take decades for the full impacts of reduced deicing rates to be observed in wells, owing to the long residence time of water in the aquifer. This transient model calibration was possible because of the 30‐year dataset collected by communities and government agencies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dilutional hyponatremia due to increased plasma arginine vasopressin (AVP) is associated with liver cirrhosis. However, plasma AVP remains elevated despite progressive hypoosmolality. This study investigated changes to inhibitory control of supraoptic nucleus (SON) AVP neurons during liver cirrhosis. Experiments were conducted with adult male Sprague–Dawley rats. Bile duct ligation was used as a model of chronic liver cirrhosis. An adeno‐associated virus containing a construct with an AVP promoter and either green fluorescent protein (GFP) or a ratiometric chloride indicator, ClopHensorN, was bilaterally injected into the SON of rats. After 2 weeks, rats received either BDL or sham surgery, and liver cirrhosis was allowed to develop for 4 weeks. In vitro, loose patch recordings of action potentials were obtained from GFP‐labeled and unlabeled SON neurons in response to a brief focal application of the GABAA agonist muscimol (100 μM). Changes to intracellular chloride ([Cl]i) following muscimol application were determined by changes to the fluorescence ratio of ClopHensorN. The contribution of cation chloride cotransporters NKCC1 and KCC2 to changes in intracellular chloride was investigated using their respective antagonists, bumetanide (BU, 10 μM) and VU0240551 (10 μM). Plasma osmolality and hematocrit were measured as a marker of dilutional hyponatremia. The results showed reduced or absent GABAA‐mediated inhibition in a greater proportion of AVP neurons from BDL rats as compared to sham rats (100% inhibition in sham vs. 47% in BDL, p =.001). Muscimol application was associated with increased [Cl]i in most cells from BDL as compared to cells from sham rats (χ2 = 30.24, p <.001). NKCC1 contributed to the impaired inhibition observed in BDL rats (p <.001 BDL − BU vs. BDL + BU). The results show that impaired inhibition of SON AVP neurons and increased intracellular chloride contribute to the sustained dilutional hyponatremia in liver cirrhosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Cameroon volcanic line (CVL) hosts numerous volcanic lakes whose internal processes and hydrological functioning remain poorly documented. A detailed understanding of these hydro‐systems is however essential, both for the consideration of these lakes as sentinels of the regional hydro‐climatic changes and for the calibration of palaeoenvironmental proxies. Here, we present a hydrological and geochemical investigation of five of these lakes (Mbalang, Tabere, Tizon, Gegouba and Baledjam) around Ngaoundere on the Adamawa Plateau, based on repeated sampling of water profiles and monthly monitoring of rain and lake water samples over two seasonal cycles. We show that each of these throughflow lakes bears a distinct geochemical and isotopic signature, despite quite similar morphometric characteristics and a common climatic regime, due to varying contribution of the watersheds to the water‐mass balance and different partitioning between evaporation (E) and outflow (Inflow minus E). We use these differences as a benchmark for a sensitivity analysis of the classical budget equations of conservative tracers. The results demonstrate that to reconcile chloride and stable isotope data with the standard single‐box steady state model would require unusual values of the physical parameters of Craig and Gordon's equation such as the n.θ term that would have to be significantly lower than its usual value (n.θ = 0.5). We also show that the data can be simulated more easily by including the inflow from the watershed while assuming that transpiration exceeds evaporation for this compartment. Using this conceptualization of the throughflow lakes, we were able to constrain the different fluxes. Transpiration from the watershed and evaporation from the lake are on the same order of magnitude, or slightly in favour of transpiration. While providing evaporation and transpiration rates which are in general in the right order of magnitude, the system of equations remains underdetermined at this stage. Only direct measurements of the isotopic composition of the atmosphere, possible by laser mass spectrometry, would allow to reduce the range of under‐determination of this problem. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: The blue light‐sensitive chloride‐conducting opsin, stGtACR2, provides potent optogenetic silencing of neurons. The present study investigated whether activation of stGtACR2 in granule cells of the dentate gyrus (DG) inhibits epileptic afterdischarges in a rat model. Methods: Rats were bilaterally injected with 0.9 μl of AAV2/7‐CaMKIIα‐stGtACR2‐fusionred in the DG. Three weeks later, afterdischarges were recorded from the DG by placing an optrode at the injection site and a stimulation electrode in the perforant path (PP). Afterdischarges were evoked every 10 min by unilateral electrical stimulation of the PP (20 Hz, 10 s). During every other afterdischarge, the DG was illuminated for 5 or 30 s, first ipsilaterally and then bilaterally to the PP stimulation. The line length metric of the afterdischarges was compared between illumination conditions. Results: Ipsilateral stGtACR2 activation during afterdischarges decreased the local field potential line length only during illumination and specifically at the illuminated site but did not reduce afterdischarge duration. Bilateral illumination did not terminate the afterdischarges. Conclusion: Optogenetic inhibition of excitatory neurons using the blue‐light sensitive chloride channel stGtACR2 reduced the amplitude of electrically induced afterdischarges in the DG at the site of illumination, but this local inhibitory effect was insufficient to reduce the duration of the afterdischarge. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A water‐soluble coordination cage was obtained by reaction of Pd(NO3)2 with a 1,3‐di(pyridin‐3‐yl)benzene ligand featuring a short PEG chain. The cavity of the metal‐organic cage contains one nitrate anion, which is readily replaced by chloride. The apparent association constant for chloride binding in buffered aqueous solution is Ka=1.8(±0.1)×105 M−1. This value is significantly higher than what has been reported for other macrocyclic chloride receptors. The heavier halides Br− and I− compete with binding or self‐assembly, but the receptor displays very good selectivity over common anions such as phosphate, acetate, carbonate, and sulfate. A further increase of the chloride binding affinity by a factor of 3 was achieved using a fluorinated dipyridyl ligand. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As an important antiseepage structure of concrete face rockfill dam, the durability of concrete face slab is very important for the long‐term safe operation of the dam. Polypropylene fiber (PPF) and polyacrylonitrile fiber (PANF) are used as research objects to study the salt frost resistance of dual fiber Face slab concrete. The corrosion resistance of PPF and PANF concrete under different fiber volume was compared. The mass loss, residual compressive strength, relative dynamic modulus of elasticity and microstructure were evaluated in salt freezing environment. The results show that adding PPF and PANF to concrete can effectively improve the frost resistance of concrete, and the performance law is similar under the coupling failure of chloride and freeze–thaw cycles. Under the same volume, the effect of PPF concrete is more significant than PPF concrete, and the effect of adding two kinds of fibers at the same time is better than adding one fiber alone. Within the evaluation range, choosing 0.5% PPF and 0.5% PPF as additives is the best choice to improve the salt frost resistance. The results of scanning electron microscopy microstructure analysis of corrosion products are consistent with that of macro property analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aims: Emerging evidence has identified hypochloremia as an independent predictor for mortality in multiple conditions including cirrhosis. Acute liver failure (ALF) is frequently complicated by electrolyte abnormalities. We investigated the prognostic value of hypochloremia in a large cohort of ALF patients from North America. Methods: The Acute Liver Failure Study Group (ALFSG) registry is a longitudinal cohort study involving 2588 ALF patients enrolled prospectively from 32 North American academic centres. The primary outcome was a composite of 21‐day all‐cause mortality or requirement for liver transplantation (death/LT). Results: Patients with hypochloremia (<98 mEq/L) had a significantly higher 21‐day mortality rate (42.1%) compared with those with normal (27.5%) or high (>107 mEq/L) chloride (28.0%) (p <.001). There was lower transplant‐free cumulative survival in the hypochloremic group than in the normo‐ or hyper‐chloremic groups (log‐rank, χ2 24.2, p <.001). Serum chloride was inversely associated with the hazard of 21‐day death/LT with multivariable adjustment for known prognostic factors (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR]: 0.977; 95% CI: 0.969–0.985; p <.001). Adding chloride to the ALFSG Prognostic Index more accurately predicted risk of death/LT in 19% of patients (net reclassification improvement [NRI] = 0.19, 95% CI: 0.13–0.25) but underestimated the probability of transplant‐free survival in 34% of patients (NRI = −0.34, 95% CI: −0.39 to −0.28). Conclusions: Hypochloremia is a novel independent adverse prognostic factor in ALF. A new ALFSG‐Cl Prognostic Index may improve the sensitivity to identify patients at risk for death without LT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Corrosion Monitoring in Reinforced Concrete Structures – New Research Results Corrosion of reinforcing steel caused by de‐icing salt and carbonation leads to considerable repair costs in middle Europe every year. The use of corrosion monitoring on reinforced concrete structures opens up new possibilities for interpreting whether damage has already occurred and how quickly it is progressing. Thus, the penetration of the depassivation front into a chloride‐loaded structure can be determined, or, if corrosion is already taking place, the magnitude of the damage progress can be estimated. By installing appropriate sensors in existing structures, the repair success can be verified after completion of repair work in accordance with procedure 8.3 of TR IH. To date, however, there is no code of practice for corrosion monitoring. In 2018, a leaflet B12 of the DGZfP was published for the first time, which can serve as a guideline. In addition, a broad WIPANO research project called "KoMICS" on open questions on corrosion monitoring has been carried out in Germany over the past three years. The findings of this project will be incorporated into a DAfStb Guidline, which is currently being edited. Relevant findings of the investigated task part of the research project at the Munich University of Applied Sciences HM are presented below. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study demonstrates the potential use of recycled powder glass as cement replacement to prepare durable concrete and avoid infrastructure corrosion in tropical marine environments using limestone as fine and coarse aggregates. Samples for corrosion measurements were prepared with #3 (∼9.5 mm) bars and without reinforcement for carbonation, chloride penetration, and mechanical strength tests. Powder glass was used as partial cement replacement by 0 %, 5 %, 10 %, and 15 % (weight percent). Over two years, the corrosion behavior of rebars was recorded through corrosion potential measurements and linear polarization resistance. In addition, carbonation depth and chloride penetration were analyzed from samples that were not reinforced. Results showed that replacing cement with glass does not change the mechanical strength at 28 days, but after 90 days of curing showed an increment as a function of time and recycled glass powder amount. The chloride penetration and the carbonation front are reduced substantially. Consequently, a moderate corrosion level was observed when the corrosion onset was established. Excellent corrosion protection was identified for a 0.70 water to cement ratio and 5 % cement replacement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chlorine has important roles in the Earth's systems. In different forms, it helps balance the charge and osmotic potential of cells, provides energy for microorganisms, mobilizes metals in geologic fluids, alters the salinity of waters, and degrades atmospheric ozone. Despite this importance, there has not been a comprehensive summary of chlorine's geobiology. Here, we unite different areas of recent research to describe a biogeochemical cycle for chlorine. Chlorine enters the biosphere through volcanism and weathering of rocks and is sequestered by subduction and the formation of evaporite sediments from inland seas. In the biosphere, chlorine is converted between solid, dissolved, and gaseous states and in oxidation states ranging from −1 to +7, with the soluble, reduced chloride ion as its most common form. Living organisms and chemical reactions change chlorine's form through oxidation and reduction and the addition and removal of chlorine from organic molecules. Chlorine can be transported through the atmosphere, and the highest oxidation states of chlorine are produced by reactions between sunlight and trace chlorine gases. Partial oxidation of chlorine occurs across the biosphere and creates reactive chlorine species that contribute to the oxidative stress experienced by living cells. A unified view of this chlorine cycle demonstrates connections between chlorine biology, chemistry, and geology that affect life on the Earth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explored the applications of a vertical electrokinetic system (V‐EK), which consists of multilayer electrodes positioned in shallow soil to form an 'electric sieve' to mitigate and prevent soil salinization caused by salts rising from saline groundwater in coastal areas. The experiments were conducted in column reactors in the laboratory. Compared to the control column, the level of ions in the surface soil was significantly reduced after the V‐EK treatment, particularly for the column with voltages at 10 V and 20 V. At a voltage of 20 V, Na+ was detected at a range of 0.06–0.08 mg g−1 in the surface soil; this is a >99% reduction compared to the controls. Similar efficacy was observed for Cl− in the V‐EK column. The concentrations of Cl− were detected with a range of 0.01–0.02 mg g−1 and 0.02–0.06 mg g−1 at the surface soil with a voltage of 20 V and 10 V, respectively, compared to the Cl− concentrations at 0.84–2.70 mg g−1 in the control. After the application of the vertical 'electric sieve', the total salt content of surface soil could be controlled at a low value (<0.25‰) at voltages of 10 V and 20 V, compared to that in the control column (4.86‰). Finally, rising of salts from the artificial saline groundwater was effectively mitigated under voltages of 10 V and 20 V. Results from this work have demonstrated that the 'electric sieve' can effectively mitigate and prevent salts from rising in shallow groundwater to surface soil and reduce soil salinity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

LIBS and electrolyte resistance investigations – Components of an in‐depth structural diagnosis of chloride‐contaminated reinforced concrete Chlorides can lead to damaging pitting corrosion at the reinforcement in reinforced concrete components, which is not necessarily visible from the outside. In order to select an appropriate repair method as specifically as possible the degree of damage and the damage potential of the components have to be identified. Besides conventional methods of building diagnostics two additional investigation methods are also being applied more often. For example, valuable additional information on the chloride distribution within the structure can be generated through targeted investigations with LIBS (Laser induced Breakdown Spectroscopy) analysis. By determining the electrolyte resistance, components can also be assessed with regard to the water content and tightness and thus with regard to the damage potential. The application of both methods in structural diagnostics are presented below. Finally, it is shown how, depending on the repair method carried out according to the Technical Rule "Maintenance of Concrete Structures (TR‐IH)" of the DIBt, different NDT methods have different importances and values. In practice, this should enable a more tailor‐made structural diagnosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A recent Phase II randomized, controlled trial of bumetanide as an adjunctive treatment for neonatal seizures showed a robust efficacy signal and no evidence of toxicity. Concerns regarding bumetanide as an adjunctive anticonvulsant are addressed here. An adequately powered multi‐institutional trial is needed to accurately determine efficacy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quantifying the transfer of organic carbon from the terrestrial to the riverine ecosystems is of crucial importance to fully appreciate the carbon cycle at the catchment, regional and global scales. In this study, we propose a framework for modeling the flux of dissolved organic carbon (DOC) from hillslopes to stream and river networks which couples a transport model based on travel time distributions with the reactivity continuum (RC) approach to model DOC degradation. We test the model by applying it to the Plynlimon catchments (UK) exploiting both weekly and high‐frequency (7‐hr interval) time‐series. We use information about chloride to get an independent estimate of water travel times using the framework of StorAge Selection functions. Following the RC model, the composition and the degradation of DOC along the flowpaths, and its consequent concentration in the streamflow, is described assuming that DOC is composed by a mixture of compounds that follows a continuous spectrum of reactivity. For the high‐frequency data set, the model is able to reproduce DOC streamflow concentrations and to capture the complex hysteretic relation between DOC concentration and discharge. Weekly data are instead not frequent enough to properly describe DOC dynamics in this catchment. The distribution of the age of the water comprised in the streamflow proves thus a key variable to predict the quantity and the reactivity of the DOC exported from soils, and the effect of hydrologic variability on this process. Plain Language Summary: Streams and rivers are able to drain, transport, process and mineralize the carbon stored in the terrestrial ecosystems. This set of processes controls stream water quality, the metabolic functioning of riverine ecosystems, and eventually the carbon balance and the CO2 emissions at the global scale. We focus on the flux of dissolved organic carbon (DOC) originating from the decomposition of soil organic matter and exported from hillslopes to the streamflow by rainfall‐runoff processes. Our goal is to contribute to the understanding of this process and to disentangle the complex relation between DOC concentration and discharge. We estimate the quantity of DOC that survives the pathways from the soil to the stream using two key variables: the time that the water transporting DOC spends along the pathway and the DOC reactivity, which controls its degradation. The model is able to capture the complex behavior of stream DOC concentration in two headwater catchments, suggesting that the mixture of water with different ages that characterizes the streamflow controls the time available for degradation and thus the flux of DOC exported. Key Points: Quantity and reactivity of dissolved organic carbon (DOC) exported from a hillslope are modeled coupling water age and reactivity continuumThe age structure of water in the catchment controls DOC degradation within soilsDOC concentration‐discharge relations are explained by water travel time distribution [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims Two types of heart failure (HF) progression were recently proposed on the basis of an increased vs. non-increased serum chloride concentration. The applicability of this concept to real-world HF pathophysiology requires further investigation. The present study evaluated the mechanisms of HF progression to a different type according to changes in the estimated plasma volume status (ePVS). Methods and results Data from 47 patients (32% men; 78.2 ± 9.7 years of age) with stable to worsening HF (37.5 ± 16 days) were analysed. Physical examination, standard blood tests, and b-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) measurements were conducted. The ePVS was calculated as follows: ePVS (dL/g) = [100 ( haematocrit (%)]/[haemoglobin (g/dL)]. For the study subjects as a whole (n = 47), changes in the ePVS correlated positively with changes in the serum chloride concentration from stable to worsening HF (r = 0.398, P = 0.0056). When divided into two groups of worsening HF with an increased (n = 31) vs. non-increased serum chloride concentration (n = 16), no significant baseline differences in body weight, serum logBNP, or ePVS were detected between groups. Under worsening HF, the increase in body weight (2.34 ± 1.12 vs. 2.59 ± 1.56 kg, P = 0.57) and logBNP (0.39 ± 0.30 vs. 0.54 ± 0.31 pg/mL, P = 0.13) did not differ between groups, but the increase in the ePVS was smaller in the group with a non-increased serum chloride concentration compared with that with an increased serum chloride concentration (0.292 ± 0.49 vs. 0.653 ± 0.60 dL/g, P = 0.044). An increase in the %change in ePVS ≥ 10% was less common in patients with a non-increased chloride concentration (37% vs. 71%, P = 0.03). Patients with a non-increased serum chloride concentration had more HF signs (3.31 ± 0.79 vs. 2.65 ± 0.71, P = 0.005) and a higher incidence of pulmonary rales (63% vs. 16%, P = 0.0024) than those with an increased serum chloride concentration. Conclusions According to the changes in the ePVS, HF progression may result from a difference between two HF types (i.e. increased vs. non-increased serum chloride concentration) in the cardiac reserve in response to a given cardiac burden by modulating plasma volume status via the possible tonicity potential of chloride. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ag2S quantum dots (QDs) with high photoluminescence quantum yield (PLQY) in the second near-infrared (NIR-II, 1000-1700 nm) window are urgently pursued. Halide atoms (especially chloride) have been studied as inorganic capping ligands on improving the PLQY of Cd-, Pb-based chalcogenide QDs; however, it remains a challenge to well replace the organic ligand with chloride ligand from silver chalcogenide QDs. Herein, a novel strategy to prepare Ag2S QDs with significant photoluminescence (PL) enhancement via chloride-mediated growth and passivation is demonstrated. The oleylamine and oleate ligands on the surface of silver-rich Ag2S QDs are readily replaced by chloride ligands due to the smaller size and higher binding affinity with Ag+. Upon partial ligand exchange and chloride passivation, the surface trap states in Ag2S QDs are reduced through a decrease of unsaturated surface Ag atoms. Therefore, Ag2S QDs with approximately 300-fold enhancement of PL intensity, and a PLQY of 47.6% at 1220 nm emission, and a lifetime of 256 ns are obtained because the nonradiative recombination is inhibited. This work reveals that the passivation of Ag2S QDs with chloride ligands is fully feasible, providing new insights into improving the PLQY of silver chalcogenide QDs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) to successfully infect a host, it must be able to adapt to changes in its microenvironment, including variations in ionic signals such as pH and chloride (Cl−), and link these responses to its growth. Transcriptional changes are a key mechanism for Mtb environmental adaptation, and we identify here Rv0500A as a novel transcriptional regulator that links Mtb environmental response and division processes. Global transcriptional profiling revealed that Rv0500A acts as a repressor and influences the expression of genes related to division, with the magnitude of its effect modulated by pH and Cl−. Rv0500A can directly bind the promoters of several of these target genes, and we identify key residues required for its DNA‐binding ability and biological effect. Overexpression of rv0500A disrupted Mtb growth morphology, resulting in filamentation that was exacerbated by high environmental Cl− levels and acidic pH. Finally, we show that perturbation of rv0500A leads to attenuation of the ability of Mtb to colonize its host in vivo. Our work highlights the important link between Mtb environmental response and growth characteristics, and uncovers a new transcription factor involved in this critical facet of Mtb biology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reinforced concrete structures are the backbone of the transportation infrastructure. Their structural safety and functional performance are critical to sustaining a globalized economy. Corrosion of steel reinforcement is typically triggered by chloride contamination and carbonation, becoming a primary factor in reinforced concrete deterioration. This paper presents a durability assessment of a tunnel structure located in a tropical marine environment. The condition assessment included visual examination, crack survey, cover depth measurements, half‐cell potential mapping, and concrete coring. The chloride profiles showed that the tunnel walls are subjected to chloride attack from both surfaces, an unusual finding in the literature. A stochastic approach is implemented to estimate the probability of corrosion initiation for chlorides and carbonation, including an innovative model for two‐sided chloride diffusion. The results indicate that two‐sided chloride exposure significantly reduces the corrosion initiation time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study presents the results of a refined numerical investigation meant at understanding the time‐dependent cyclic behavior of reinforced concrete (RC) bridge columns under chlorides‐induced corrosion. The chloride ingress in the cross‐section of the bridge column is simulated, taking into account the effects of temperature, humidity, aging, and corrosion‐induced cover cracking. Once the partial differential equations governing such multiphysics problem are solved through the finite‐element method, the loss of reinforcement steel bars cross‐section is calculated based on the estimated corrosion current density. The nonlinear cyclic response of the RC bridge column under corrosion is, thus, determined by discretizing its cross‐sections into several unidirectional fibers. In particular, the nonlinear modeling of the corroded longitudinal rebars exploits a novel proposal for the estimation of the ultimate strain in tension and also accounts for buckling under compression. A parametric numerical study is finally conducted for a real case study to unfold the role of corrosion pattern and buckling mode of the longitudinal rebars on the time variation of capacity and ductility of RC bridge columns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The presence of hydrogen sulfide and chloride in oil and gas production environments can induce deterioration of the passive film, leading to pitting corrosion of stainless steel. In this research, localized behavior of stainless‐steel type 316 L was studied in highly hydrogen sulfide and chloride environment. The environmental condition was setting up using NACE TM0177 Solution A at different partial pressures of 0 bar, 3 bar and 15 bar of hydrogen sulfide, respectively. The results indicated that the presence of sulfides and chloride ions in test solution can decrease its corrosion resistance due to pitting corrosion attacking and promoting passive layer break down. Deterioration of passive film was analyzed using weight loss calculation, pit penetration analyses was done by infinite focus microscopy and surface morphology with the corrosion products were investigated by scanning electron microscope after 7 days immersion in test solution. Energy‐dispersive x‐ray results shows the presence of sulfur on the passive oxide layer at 3 bar and 15 bar conditions. Thus, the protection for these steels is undermined by hydrogen sulfide corrosion that affects on the passive films and altered its structure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chloride‐ion batteries have some attractive properties such as high energy density and low cost. However, they have poor cycle performance because chloride as an active material tends to dissolve into a polar solvent. Herein, an all‐solid‐state chloride‐ion battery is demonstrated with KCl‐doped PbCl2 as a solid electrolyte to suppress the dissolution of chloride. The all‐solid‐state cell with BiCl3 as the cathode had an initial discharge capacity of 187 mAh g−1, which corresponds to 73 % of the theoretical capacity of BiCl3. Moreover, it exhibited better cyclability compared to the previously reported non‐aqueous cell with BiCl3 cathode. During the charge‐discharge process, XRD and XPS analysis confirmed the unique behavior of conversion reaction by Cl− anion, where Bi is produced by discharging and BiCl3 returns by charging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quality and food safety are of paramount importance to the palm oil industry. In this work, we investigated the practicability of ethylene gas exogenous application on post‐harvested oil palm fruit bunches to improve the crude palm oil (CPO) quality. The bunches were first exposed to ethylene gas for 24 hr to induce abscission of palm fruits from bunches. The detached fruits were then subjected to heat treatment, mechanical extraction, clarification and drying to produce CPO. Critical quality parameters of CPO produced, that is free fatty acid, deterioration of the bleachability index and triacylglycerol showed improvement with ethylene gas treatment. Contaminant content that is phosphorus, chloride, iron, and copper also showed a reduction in the CPO derived from ethylene‐treated bunches. These findings corresponded with low levels of contaminants such as 3‐monochloropropane‐1,2‐diol esters and glycidyl esters in refined oil. The implementation strategy and practicability of this method is herein proposed and discussed. Ethylene application not only improves the CPO quality, but could potentially enhance the process sustainability of palm oil mills. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]