Search

Salt particles generated by aerosol generator are commonly used in air filtration test. As a common phenomenon, the number of generated particles increases with the salt concentration in the atomization solution. Thus far, the dependence of the particle number on the concentration of the atomization solution is not fully understood. In this study, two hypotheses were proposed to explain this phenomenon: i) a single droplet generates multiple solid particles, and the generated particle number is influenced by the salt concentration, and ii) the original droplet number increases with an increase in the salt concentration of the atomization solution. By observing the particle formation process of the levitated millimeter-scale NaCl droplet, one droplet was found to generate one particle in free air. However, whether these results are applicable to micrometer-scale droplets remains to be determined. In situ measurements were performed to detect the size distributions of the original droplets generated by the atomization solutions with various salt concentrations. A more concentrated atomization solution induced a higher number of original droplets. Particle formation patterns of droplets on glass substrates and filaments were demonstrated. Traditional observation methods for droplet drying are unsuitable for studying the particle formation of atomized droplets because of the large difference in droplet size and the existence of external forces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soil is indispensable for agricultural production but has been seriously polluted by cadmium and salt in recent years. Many crops are suffering from this, including rapeseed, the third largest global oilseed crop. However, genes simultaneously related to both cadmium and salt stress have not been extensively reported yet. In this study, BnaA10.WRKY75 was screened from previous RNA-seq data related to cadmium and salt stress and further analyses including sequence comparison, GUS staining, transformation and qRT-PCR were conducted to confirm its function. GUS staining and qRT-PCR results indicated BnaA10.WRKY75 was induced by CdCl2 and NaCl treatment. Sequence analysis suggested BnaA10.WRKY75 belongs to Group IIc of the WRKY gene family and transient expression assay showed it was a nuclear localized transcription factor. BnaA10.WRKY75-overexpressing Arabidopsis and rapeseed plants accumulated more H2O2 and O2− and were more sensitive to CdCl2 and NaCl treatment compared with untransformed plants, which may be caused by the downregulation of BnaC03.CAT2. Our study reported that BnaA10.WRKY75 increases sensitivity to cadmium and salt stress by disrupting the balance of reactive oxygen species both in Arabidopsis and rapeseed. The results support the further understanding of the mechanisms underlying cadmium and salt tolerance and provide BnaA10.WRKY75 as a valuable gene for rapeseed abiotic stress breeding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A potassium silicate coating cured by calcium hydrogen phosphate was prepared on Ti–6Al–4V, and its protection behavior against NaCl-induced corrosion was investigated at 700 °C for 500 h by the means of thermogravimetry, SEM, EMPA, XRD and TEM. The bare Ti–6Al–4V alloy suffered severe corrosion as the thickness of corrosion production layer exceeded 2 mm after 500 h. The major corrosion production was TiO 2 , and sodium titanates was observed within 100 h while disappeared after long-term tests. Accordingly, a novel model for NaCl-induced corrosion of Ti alloys at high temperatures was proposed. That is, the porosity of the corrosion product is strongly correlated with the reaction between water vapor in air and sodium titanates at high temperatures. The coating exhibited excellent protection as the corroded substrate layer, which is Ti 5 Si 3 resulted from coating-substrate reaction, is ∼6.6 μm only, and no oxide scale was formed. Dissolution of Na in the coating was identified and is believed to be associated with the protective mechanism of the potassium silicate coating, i.e. this dissolution avoids chlorination-oxidation of Ti alloy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mechanochemistry has developed rapidly in recent years for efficient chemicals and materials synthesis. Twin screw extrusion (TSE) is a particularly promising technique in this regard because of its continuous and scalable nature. A key aspect of TSE is that it provides high shear and mixing. Because of the high shear, it potentially also offers a way to delaminate 2‐D materials. Indeed, the synthesis of 2‐D materials in a scalable and continuous manor remains a challenge in their industrialization. Here, as a proof‐of‐principle, the automated, continuous mechanochemical exfoliation of graphite to give multi‐layer graphene (MLG, ≈6 layers) by TSE is demonstrated. To achieve this, a solid‐and‐liquid‐assisted extrusion (SLAE) process is developed in which organic additives such as pyrene are rendered liquid due to the high temperatures used, to assist with the exfoliation, and simultaneously solid sodium chloride is used as a grinding aid. This gave MLG in high yield (25 wt%) with a short residence time (8 min) and notably with negligible evidence for structural deterioration (defects or oxidation). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to compare the physiological and biochemical behaviour of four varieties of Medicago sativa differing in origin: Tamacine (Algerian), Triade (Italian), Maxigrowth (American), and Zanandrea (Australian). These varieties were subjected to saline stress (100 mM L-1) for 45 days at the early flowering stage. The results show that salinity had a depressive effect on all four varieties, reducing both fresh and dry matter. A decrease of more than 15% in dry weight was observed in the Tamacine genotype, but this reduction was more pronounced in the Zanandrea genotype. A significant increase in proline and soluble sugars content was recorded in the leaves (p = 0.000) under saline stress. Tamacine appears to be the most resistant variety, demonstrating biochemical adaptation by accumulating more osmoprotectants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Shipin Kexue/ Food Science is the property of Food Science Editorial Department and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The morphological adjustments of euhalophytes are well-known to be influenced by the soil-soluble salt variation; however, whether and how these changes in morphological traits alter the biomass allocation pattern remains unclear, especially under different NaCl levels. Therefore, an allometric analysis was applied to investigate the biomass allocation pattern and morphological plasticity, and the carbon (C), nitrogen (N), and phosphorus (P) stoichiometric characteristics of the euhalophyte Suaeda Salsa (S. salsa) at the four soil-soluble salt levels of no salt (NS), light salt (LS), moderate salt (MS), and heavy salt (HS). The results showed that soil-soluble salts significantly change the biomass allocation to the stems and leaves (p < 0.05). With the growth of S. salsa, the NS treatment produced a downward leaf mass ratio (LMR) and upward stem mass ratio (SMR); this finding was completely different from that for the salt treatments. When S. salsa was harvested on the 100th day, the HS treatment had the highest LMR (61%) and the lowest SMR (31%), while the NS treatment was the opposite, with an LMR of 44% and an SMR of 50%. Meanwhile, the soil-soluble salt reshaped the morphological characteristics of S. salsa (e.g., root length, plant height, basal stem diameter, and leaf succulence). Combined with the stoichiometric characteristics, N uptake restriction under salt stress is a vital reason for inhibited stem growth. Although the NS treatment had the highest biomass (48.65 g root box−1), the LS treatment had the highest salt absorption (3.73 g root box−1). In conclusion, S. salsa can change its biomass allocation pattern through morphological adjustments to adapt to different saline–alkali habitats. Moreover, it has an optimal biological desalting effect in lightly saline soil dominated by NaCl. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The new salt named 4,4'-thiobis(pyridin-1-ium) aniline-2,5-disulfonate (1), (H2DPS)2+(ADSA)2− (1), was synthesized by the reaction of 1,2-di(pyridin-4-yl)disulfane (DPDS) and aniline-2,5-disulfonic acid (H2ADSA) at reflux temperature. Also, new coordination polymers formulated as {[M(DPS)2(H2O)2]}n(ADSA)·4H2O {DPS = di(pyridin-4-yl)sulphane, M = Co(II) (2) and Cu(II) (3)} were synthesized from the salt 1. The structure of 1 was clarified using methods such as elemental analysis, nuclear magnetic resonance, ultraviolet–visible and infrared spectroscopy. For the structural examinations of 2 and 3, magnetic susceptibility, spectroscopic analysis and an X-ray study were used. X-ray analysis showed that the DPS ligand coordinated to Co(II) in complex 2 and Cu(II) in complex 3. In both coordination polymers, the coordination sphere of the M(II) ion with six coordination numbers consists of four N atoms of four DPS molecules and two O atoms of two water molecules, resulting in a distorted octahedral geometry. Antibacterial properties were tested against Bacillus subtilis, Listeria monocytogenes (ATCC 7644), Staphylococcus aureus (NRRL B-767), Enterococcus faecalis (ATCC 29212), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (ATCC 27853), Escherichia coli (ATCC 25922) and were tested against yeast Candida albicans (F89). The antibacterial activities of the compounds were compared with the control drugs Cefepime, Levofloxacin and Vancomycin and their antifungal activities were compared with the antifungal reference drug Fluconazole. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Science & Technology of Food Industry is the property of Science & Technology of Food Industry Editorial Office and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Background. Today, acute pancreatitis is one of the most common and severe visceral disorders in patients worldwide. The aim of the work was to study the dynamics of ultrastructural changes of type II alveolocytes in the long-term periods of development of experimental acute pancreatitis. Material and methods. The experiments were carried out on 54 white Wistar male rats weighing 180-220 g. The animals were divided into three groups: first -- intact, second -- control, third -- experimental with a model of acute pancreatitis, which was reproduced by intraperitoneal administration of a 20% solution of L-arginine at a total dose of 5 g/kg at one-hour interval. The control group of animals was intraperitoneally injected with an equivalent dose of isotonic sodium chloride solution. All research were performed under sodium thiopental anesthesia at the rate of 60 mg/kg body weight. Lung tissue for electron microscopic examination was collected from the lower lobe of the left lung at 3-5 and 7 days. Pieces of lung tissue measuring 1×1×1 mm were fixed in a 2.5% glutaraldehyde solution, followed by additional fixation in a 1% osmium tetroxide solution. After dehydration, the material was poured into Epon-Araldite. Sections with a thickness of 20-50 nm obtained on "Tesla BS-490" ultramicrotome were studied in a PEM-125K electron microscope. Results. It was found that three days after the start of the study, along with dystrophic-destructive changes, type II alveolocytes in a state of increased functional activity were observed. Continuation of the experiment (5 days) leads to the progression of ultrastructural changes in type II alveolocytes are determined, which are most pronounced on the 7 day of the study. Conclusion. Acute experimental pancreatitis is accompanied by marked changes in the ultrastructural structure of type II alveolocytes. The nature and severity of structural changes of type II alveolocytes depends on the duration of the course of arginine-induced acute pancreatitis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sugars will be eventually effluxed transporters (SWEETs) have been confirmed to play diverse physiological roles in plant growth, development and stress response. However, the characteristics and functions of the SWEET genes in Hemerocallis citrina remain unclear and poorly elucidated. In this study, the whole genome of Hemerocallis citrina was utilized to conduct bioinformatics analysis and a total of 19 HcSWEET genes were successfully identified. Analysis of the physicochemical properties indicated dominant differences among these HcSWEETs. A phylogenetic analysis revealed that HcSWEET proteins can be divided into 4 clades ranging from Clade I to IV, where proteins within the same clade exhibited shared conserved motifs and gene structures. Five to six exons were contained in the majority of HcSWEET genes, which were unevenly distributed across 11 chromosomes. The gene duplication analysis showed the presence of 4 gene pairs. Comparative syntenic maps revealed that the HcSWEET gene family might present more closed homology in monocotyledons than dicotyledons. Cis-acting element analysis of HcSWEET genes indicated key responsiveness to various hormones, light, and stresses. Additionally, transcriptome sequencing analysis suggested that most HcSWEET genes had a relatively higher expression in roots, and HcSWEET4a was significantly up-regulated under salt stress. Overexpression further verified the possibility that HcSWEET4a was involved in response to salt stress, which provides novel insights and facilitates in-depth studies of the functional analysis of HcSWEETs in resistance to abiotic stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gels as compelling soft material shows its promising versatility in actuators, soft electronics, and biomedical sensors. However, most gel materials are too rigid to cope with long‐term changing scenarios and specific needs. Inspired by the switchable behavior of bio‐behavior of muscle, the study reports a thermodynamically controllable and stiffness‐transformative cellulose‐salt gel by simple thermal mixing of hydrous salt, cellulose nanofiber, and polyacrylamide. The achieved cellulosic gel with dynamic microstructure presents an amazing stiffness switchability between crystalline state and melted states of 32.38 to 0.02 MPa, as well as the regulable light transmittance between 41.59% and 93.43%. In addition, this cellulose‐salt gel has excellent thermal controllable behavior. That is, by controlling the crystallization process, the cellulose‐salt gel displays the start‐stop releasing‐energy behaviors on demand. Enabled by these outstanding properties, the study further demonstrates the promising application of cellulose‐salt gel in controllable soft‐rigid coupling thermoelectric device, showing the broader implications for wearable electronics aiming at on‐demand work. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lithium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide (LiTFSI) is a widely used lithium (Li) salt that is extensively studied in the field of electrolytes for Li‐ion batteries (LIBs) to improve their performance. A thorough understanding of its underlying mechanisms in LIBs is crucial for gaining deeper insights into its future development. This paper provides an extensive review of the role of LiTFSI in enhancing battery performance, including its benefits for negative electrode protection, the facilitation of fast charging capabilities, and the promotion of battery operation across a wide temperature range. It also highlights the specific drawbacks of LiTFSI in the electrolyte domain and examines potential solutions. By leveraging the unique properties of LiTFSI, the strategies for its effective utilization in current research are outlined. Finally, the paper discusses the lack of research into the mechanism of LiTFSI in interface protection, particularly the evolution mechanisms of multi‐component Li salts at the positive and negative electrode interfaces, and it reasonably anticipates the potential applications of LiTFSI in the realm of non‐liquid batteries. This study not only provides a more comprehensive and profound understanding of LiTFSI but also aids in the exploration of novel electrolyte systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bromide is the first effective antiseizure medication used in human medicine since the XIX century. Initially met with skepticism, bromide quickly gained enthusiasm within the medical field until being largely replaced by newer antiseizure medications with significantly fewer adverse effects in people. In veterinary medicine, bromide continues to be used in the management of epileptic patients for over 30  years, yet adverse effects can impact owners and patients alike. We sought to provide the general practitioner and veterinary neurologist with insightful information on both the positive and negative attributes of bromide, explore factors that may influence its desirability as an antiseizure medication in specific veterinary cases and elucidate its current role in modern epilepsy treatment for veterinary patients. It’s also our endeavor to discuss the current use as an alternative or add-on with other known antiseizure medications and potential future studies that might enhance our understanding and use of this medication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of images has increased over the previous decade and they have the potential to be effective communication tools, similar to social media. In this technological era, uploading information or visual images to the social media seems to be gaining popularity lately. Therefore, a good image is important to provide the right information. However, the information in the image can be lost or corrupted due to the appearance of noise caused by the digitization, transmission or acquisition process. Thus, it is necessary to remove the noise before using the image for subsequent task. In this study, a new method for removing salt and pepper noise in digital image is proposed by using singular value decomposition and alpha trimmed mean median approach. The singular value decomposition will be used in the detection process by considering the distribution of pixel values in the processed image. Next, the detected noisy pixels will be replaced with a new value obtained from the trimmed alpha mean median approach. The experimental process was performed on a grayscale image with a resolution of 512 × 512 prepared with a salt and pepper noise density varying between 10% to 90% in order to compare the proposed method to other existing methods. The experimental results show that the proposed method has successfully reduced salt and pepper noise in high noise density. In addition, the proposed method provides better filtering results in terms of visual effects and quantitative measurement results compared to the several existing methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Environmental stresses, including high salinity and drought, severely diminish wheat yield and quality globally. The xyloglucan endotransglucosylase/hydrolase (XTH) family represents a class of cell wall-modifying enzymes and plays important roles in plants growth, development and stress adaptation. However, systematic analyses of XTH family genes and their functions under salt and drought stresses have not been undertaken in wheat. Results: In this study, we identified a total of 135 XTH genes in wheat, which were clustered into three evolutionary groups. These TaXTHs were unevenly distributed on 21 chromosomes of wheat with a majority of TaXTHs located on homelogous groups 2, 3 and 7. Gene duplication analysis revealed that segmental and tandem duplication were the main reasons for the expansion of XTH family in wheat. Interaction network predictions indicated that TaXTHs could interact with multiple proteins, including three kinases, one methyltransferase and one gibberellin-regulated protein. The promoters of the TaXTH genes harbored various cis-acting elements related to stress and hormone responses. RNA-seq data analyses showed that some TaXTH genes were induced by salt and drought stresses. Furthermore, we verified that TaXTH17 was induced by abiotic stresses and phytohormone treatments, and demonstrated that TaXTH17 was localized in the secretory pathway and cell wall. Functional analyses conducted in heterologous expression systems and in wheat established that TaXTH17 plays a negative role in plant resistance to salt and drought. Conclusions: We identified 135 XTH genes in wheat and conducted comprehensive analyses of their phylogenetic relationships, gene structures, conserved motifs, gene duplication events, chromosome locations, interaction networks, cis-acting elements and gene expression patterns. Furthermore, we provided solid evidence supporting the notion that TaXTH17 plays a negative role in plant resistance to salt and drought stresses. Collectively, our results provide valuable insights into understanding wheat XTHs, particularly their involvement in plant stress responses, and establish a foundation for further functional and mechanistic studies of TaXTHs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Solar‐driven interfacial evaporation toward highly salinity brine has drawn great attention due to its distinct advantages. Generally, most studies focus on how to improve the water evaporation rate while restrain the salt accumulation on evaporators. In fact, generating/recycling the salt during the evaporation process is of equal importance since the salt is also valuable. However, how to realize high salt generation rate while keep high water evaporation rate is still a great challenge, since high‐efficiency water evaporation and salt accumulation is conflicting in most cases. Herein, both high evaporation rate and high salt formation rate have been achieved via surface engineering of a 3D evaporator: 1) Constructing surround‐Janus structure with different wettability around a 3D evaporator; 2) Enhancing salt crystallization via introduction of tapes on special surface. Thanks to the distinct surface engineering, the water evaporation rate toward highly salinity brine (20 wt%) can reach up to ≈2.8 kg m−2 h−1, while the salt formation rate can be as high as ≈0.1 kg m−2 h−1. Moreover, the high performance can be well maintained even when the evaporator is irradiated with different angles. Specially, as a proof of concept, the potential of the 3D evaporator for Li+/Na+ separation is also demonstrated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Soil salinity is a worldwide problem threatening crop yields. Some plant growth‐promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) could survive in high salt environment and assist plant adaptation to stress. Nevertheless, the genomic and metabolic features, as well as the regulatory mechanisms promoting salt tolerance in plants by these bacteria remain largely unknown. In the current work, a novel halotolerant PGPR strain, namely, Bacillus sp. strain RA can enhance tomato tolerance to salt stress. Comparative genomic analysis of strain RA with its closely related species indicated a high level of evolutionary plasticity exhibited by strain‐specific genes and evolutionary constraints driven by purifying selection, which facilitated its genomic adaptation to salt‐affected soils. The transcriptome further showed that strain RA could tolerate salt stress by balancing energy metabolism via the reprogramming of biosynthetic pathways. Plants exude a plethora of metabolites that can strongly influence plant fitness. The accumulation of myo‐inositol in leaves under salt stress was observed, leading to the promotion of plant growth triggered by Bacillus sp. strain RA. Importantly, myo‐inositol serves as a selective force in the assembly of the phyllosphere microbiome and the recruitment of plant‐beneficial species. It promotes destabilizing properties in phyllosphere bacterial co‐occurrence networks, but not in fungal networks. Furthermore, interdomain interactions between bacteria and fungi were strengthened by myo‐inositol in response to salt stress. This work highlights the genetic adaptation of RA to salt‐affected soils and its ability to impact phyllosphere microorganisms through the adjustment of myo‐inositol metabolites, thereby imparting enduring resistance against salt stress in tomato. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to investigate the effects of reduction and/or partial replacement of sodium chloride with other chloride salts in pork ham. Calcium chloride, potassium chloride and magnesium chloride were selected at various contents and combinations. After processing, physico-chemical, microstructural, microbiological and sensory analyses were performed. The samples that showed acceptability in the sensory analysis were evaluated for pH, colour, aw, humidity, peroxide value (PV) and thiobarbituric acid reactive substance (TBARS) during storage (10, 30, 45, 60 and 75 days). The reduction and/or replacement of NaCl in the tested proportions significantly affected (p < 0.05) the quality of physical parameters (texture and colour), chemicals (composition, TBARS and PV) and structure. The formulations with 10 g·kg-1 NaCl and 5 g·kg-1 KCl replacement provided the best results for the evaluated technological parameters, resulting in lower losses. The obtained structures were similar to the muscular structure, well-organised and with the formation of a protein network, they presented good sensory acceptability and characteristics very similar to those of the standard formulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Horses that sweat during exercise lose considerable amounts of water and electrolytes, such as sodium (Na), potassium (K) and chloride (Cl). Significant sweat losses between 7–10L can occur even during moderate exercise in leisure horses (500–600kg body mass); significantly higher sweat losses can be observed in endurance riding or in Three-day eventing competitions. Numerous studies have shown that most leisure and sport horses cannot compensate their increased Na and Cl requirements via a salt lick, whereas the K supply can be covered by an adequate roughage intake, even under situations with a high K requirement. The oral supplementation of electrolytes, especially Na and Cl, is a useful strategy in order to replace electrolytes that are lost by sweating in leisure and in sport horses. Although there are numerous electrolyte supplements on the market, commercial products are usually not well formulated, so that salt supplementation (e.g., table salt without fluorine and iodine) is recommended in the nutritional management of hoses. Adding electrolytes into the diet, sufficient water must be always freely available in order (i) to compensate water losses through sweating; (ii) promoting electrolyte absorption in the gastrointestinal tract; and (iii) counteracting the risks of salt overdosing, as renal elimination is dependent on water supply. Horses should be adapted to the oral supplementation of electrolytes/salt e.g., in combination with palatable feed. The application of electrolytes via the drinking water is often not recommended, as the palatability of saline solutions in horses is low and can individually vary from horse to horse. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of the study had to conducted an analasys on the physicochemical and fatty acid composition in white brined cheese obtained after technological processing by buffalo milk and addition of tobacco seed in different concentrations. Technological processing of buffalo milk to white brined cheese with different amounts of tobacco seed leads to technological losses of protein and fat as a result of proteolytic and lipolytic processes during the ripening process, which in turn leads to a decrease in the content of total solids in white brined cheeses with additives relative to the control group. The addition of tobacco seed supplements does not affect the technological process of ripening of white brined cheese, which is established and proven by the indicator of the degree of maturity. The total fat in the studied white brined cheeses increases significantly with the addition of the addition of tobacco seed (P ≤ 0.001). Fat in the control group of white brine cheeses was 10.8% and increased to 23.85% when the 7.5% supplement was applied. Protein decreased significantly (P ≤ 0.001) with the application of 7.5% tobacco seed to 9.18% compared to the control group of white brine cheese -- 11.3%. The content of saturated and monounsaturated fatty acids in white brine cheese with the addition of different amounts of tobacco seed decreases, while the concentration of polyunsaturated fatty acids increases with increasing additive content in white brine cheese, which is due to the high levels of unsaturated fatty acids in the additive. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During the Early Cretaceous, massive evaporite accumulations formed in the opening South Atlantic. However, the depositional model of these salts is still poorly constrained at the scale of the West African margin. The present study focuses along the proximal domain of the south Gabon‐Congo‐Cabinda margin and is based on (i) log interpretations of 246 wells crossing undeformed to weakly deformed evaporite intervals and (ii) a structural characterization of the basement. The evaporites show 11 regional evaporite depositional cycles (CI–CXI) bounded by meter‐thick shale beds. The cycles display alternating meter‐scale carnallite‐halite beds that can be correlated over several hundred kilometres, and CVI, CVII, CVIIIa and CX culminate in localized tachyhydrite accumulations. Cross section correlations and isopach maps help to understand the palaeogeographical evolution of each cycle and depositional environments that evolved from relatively deep at the base of cycles, to very shallow at their top. CI formed a mosaic of halite‐prone depocenters deposited in pre‐salt topographic relief. CII and CIII were deposited uniformly over a flattened basin in a highly extended brine pond. From CIV to CVIIIa, the stratigraphic architecture of the salts was shaped by freshwater inflow sourced from the north and possible basement movements. This setting, together with an increased confinement of the proximal domain from the distal one with basin drawdown, favoured the development of depocenters with perennial subaqueous conditions and extreme salinities, in which more than 70 m of tachyhydrite accumulation could locally be preserved. From CVIIIb to CXI, the basin returned to a flat depositional setting without well‐developed depocenters and with increasing subsidence westwards. Marine influx increased starting from CX, allowing the deposition of sulphate beds. The salt section is capped by anhydrite deposits interbedded with clastic and dolomite, before the final marine invasion of the basin. For the first time, this study provides a large‐scale depositional tectonostratigraphic setting of the Aptian salts in the proximal domain of the West African margin. The results are of interest for K‐Mg salts exploration resources in the Aptian and pave the way for further investigation of the salt depositional environment in the distal domain of the margin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wide‐bandgap (WBG) perovskite solar cell (PSC) plays a pivotal role as the top subcell in all‐perovskite tandem solar cells (TSCs), facilitating the absorption of high‐energy photons and affording a large open‐circuit voltage (VOC). Nonetheless, the stability and efficiency of WBG PSCs are constrained by light‐induced halide segregation and non‐radiative recombination losses. In this study, this work presents an approach of utilizing 2‐methylpiperazinium bromide (2‐MePBr) via interfacial engineering to realize high‐efficiency WBG (1.77 eV) PSCs. The C─NH─C functional group in 2‐MePBr, serving as an electron donor, can interact with under‐coordinated lead defects at the perovskite surface. Consequently, the treatment with 2‐MePBr mitigates interfacial non‐radiative recombination, enhances charge transport, inhibits ion migration, and thus delivers an improved power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 19.30% with a VOC of 1.29 V, and a fill factor of 83.08%. Notably, the WBG PSCs manifest enhanced stability, preserving 80% of the initial PCE after 337 h of continuous operation under 1 sun illumination at the maximum power point. Furthermore, the all‐perovskite TSCs based on this WBG subcell achieve a PCE of 27.47%, showing its promising application in perovskite‐based tandem solar cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The Blue Bonnet 76 (BB76) rice cultivar is more susceptible to salt stress than the Sakha Super 300 (SS300) cultivar. • The tolerance of SS300 owes to more reduced leaf Na+ owing partially to enhanced OsHKT1;5 in the root. • BB76 accumulated 9-fold more proline than SS300. • The susceptibility of BB76 is probably due to utilization of more energy for osmolyte synthesis. Salt stress remains a global problem affecting agricultural production, and the elucidation of stress tolerance mechanisms in crops, such as rice, can provide essential information to breeders to generate improved cultivars capable of withstanding environmental challenges. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the tolerance mechanisms of two rice cultivars with different salinity tolerance. The rice cultivars, Sakha Super 300 (SS300, tolerant) and Blue Bonnet 76 (BB76, sensitive), were subjected to 0 and 100 mM NaCl (control and salt stress, respectively) for 14 days. Subsequently, growth indices (dry weight and plant length), physiological parameters (Na+ and K + concentrations, secondary metabolites, enzyme activities, and chlorophyll and carotenoid concentrations), and the expression of Na+ and K + transport-coding genes were determined. The results showed that the dry weight (DW) of SS300 was not significantly altered by salt stress, whereas that of BB76 decreased by 1.8 folds. The leaf Na+ concentration in SS300 (15.3 mg/g DW) was less than that of BB76 (23.7 mg/g DW), whereas the ratio of Na+/ K + was significantly higher in BB76 than in SS300 leaves. The leaf proline concentration of BB76 was 23-fold that of control and 9-fold that of SS300, whereas total flavonoid increased only in the leaves of SS300 (38 % increase). Regarding antioxidant enzyme activities, peroxidase (POD) significantly declined (2.7-fold) in the leaves of BB76 but remained unchanged in SS300. Regarding gene expression, there was 21- and 10-fold upregulation of OsHKT1;5 expression in the roots of SS300 and BB76, respectively, whereas root OsAKT1 and OsHAK7 were induced only in SS300 (2.3 and 2-fold induction, respectively). These results suggest that the susceptibility of BB76 to salt stress is likely attributed to the utilization of more energy for osmolyte synthesis, and reduced antioxidants and Na+ and K + regulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Influence of salinity stress and serotonin was examined on Brassica carinata. • Application of serotonin improved plant growth, foliar functions, water use efficiency and nitrate reductase under salt stress conditions. • Upregulation of antioxidant enzymes evoked by salt stress situation. • Serotonin application fortified the tolerance power of the studied plant. Every year, high salinity reduces agricultural crop yields by a substantial amount due to osmotic and ionic impacts that prevent plants from absorbing the required water and promote the hyperaccumulation of ions, which enter the transpiration stream and injure plant cells. Thus, in general, the effects of salinity stress on plant physio-chemicals functions are well known, but little has been explored on how serotonin combats abiotic stress in Ethiopian mustard (Brassica carinata). In this study, the effect of serotonin (SR; 200 µmol L−1) on Ethiopian mustard under salt stress (SS; 0, 50, 100 and 150 mM) was examined. Results exhibited that all SS levels tested in this trial were able to offer a significant reduction of plant growth parameters, chlorophyll contents, gas exchange, water use efficiency, fv/fm and nitrate reductase activity (NR) and increased the antioxidants and proline contents. However, the foliar application of SR significantly ameliorated the influence of all SS levels by improving gas exchange parameters, chlorophyll contents, PSll photochemical efficiency, antioxidant activities, proline, NR, water use efficiency and growth parameters. Based on these results, it is recommended that SR application is useful to uplift the growth, yield and physio-chemical mechanisms of Ethiopian mustard. Furthermore, the SR application can be carried out on various traditional crops under different climate conditions for sustainable agriculture production. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: While dietary salt intake has been linked with gastric cancer risk in Asian studies, findings from Western populations are sparse and limited to case—control studies. Our aim was to evaluate the frequency of adding salt to food at table in relation to gastric cancer risk among UK adults. Methods: We evaluated associations between the frequency of adding salt to food and the risk of gastric cancer in the UK Biobank (N = 471,144) using multivariable Cox regression. Frequency of adding salt to food was obtained from a touchscreen questionnaire completed at baseline (2006–2010). 24-h urinary sodium excretion was estimated using INTERSALT formulae. Cancer incidence was obtained by linkage to national cancer registries. Results: During a median follow-up period of 10.9 years, 640 gastric cancer cases were recorded. In multivariable models, the gastric cancer risk among participants reporting adding salt to food at table "always" compared to those who responded "never/rarely" was HR = 1.41 (95% CI: 1.04, 1.90). There was a positive linear association between estimated 24-h urinary sodium levels and the frequency of adding salt to food (p-trend <0.001). However, no significant association between estimated 24-h urinary sodium with gastric cancer was observed (HR = 1.19 (95% CI: 0.87, 1.61)). Conclusions: "Always adding salt to food" at table was associated with a higher gastric cancer risk in a large sample of UK adults. High frequency of adding salt to food at table can potentially serve as a useful indicator of salt intake for surveillance purposes and a basis for devising easy-to-understand public health messages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Grafting high-yielding tomato varieties onto stress-tolerant rootstocks can mitigate the adverse effects of saline water irrigation on plant tomato productivity in arid regions like Saudi Arabia. This study investigates the efficacy of grafting tomatoes onto both novel and commercial rootstocks to enhance salinity tolerance and its impact on growth, physiological parameters, and yield in a soilless culture system. The experiment involved two water quality levels, 2 (S1) and 4 (S2) dS m−1, two growth media types, volcanic rock (M1) and sand (M2), and six grafting treatments: Tone Guitar F1 non-grafted (G1) (commercial scion), grafted onto itself (G2), Tone Guitar F1* Maxifort F1 (G3) (commercial rootstock), and grafting the scion onto three novel rootstocks, X-218 (G4), X-238 (G5), and Alawamiya365 (G6). Growth, physiology, photosynthetic pigments, and yield improved with lower salinity (2 dS m−1) in volcanic rock and with the grafting treatments (G2–G6) compared to the non-grafted treatment (G1). The best results were achieved with the S1M1G5 treatment, where yield increased by 53% compared to the lowest yield in non-grafted plants grown in sand under higher salinity (S2M2G1). All studied traits were adversely affected under high salinity (S2) in sandy media, with the G1 treatment resulting in the lowest values for these traits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The separation of chloride and chlorate ions in the case of a significant excess of chloride ions in a sample is studied by capillary electrophoresis. It is found that under standard separation conditions using a chromate background electrolyte, the signal-to-noise ratio for the chlorate ion peak at c() = 0.1 mM sharply decreases at the concentration ratio c(Cl–)/c() > 100. A number of approaches are considered to eliminate this phenomenon. The most effective approach was to introduce a solution containing acetate ions into the capillary after the sample zone to create conditions for transient isotachophoresis. Optimal parameters for the electrophoretic separation of chloride and chlorate ions are selected at a chloride ion content of 35 mM in the sample. The limit of detection is 0.01 mM chlorate ions (0.03−0.06% based on the mass of dry potassium, sodium, or lithium chlorides). The calibration curve is linear in the range of 0.01−1 mM . The selected conditions allow the determination of chlorate ions at a molar ratio of chloride to chlorate ions of 35−3500. The stacking efficiency factors are 10−70. Perchlorate ions do not interfere with the determination of chlorate ions at the concentrations of both ions of 0.1 mM or lower. The procedure is tested by analysis of table salt. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a well‐conserved histone variant, H2A.Z epigenetically regulates plant growth and development as well as the interaction with environmental factors. However, the role of H2A.Z in response to salt stress remains unclear, and whether nucleosomal H2A.Z occupancy work on the gene responsiveness upon salinity is obscure. Here, we elucidate the involvement of H2A.Z in salt response by analysing H2A.Z disorder plants with impaired or overloaded H2A.Z deposition. The salt tolerance is dramatically accompanied by H2A.Z deficiency and reacquired in H2A.Z OE lines. H2A.Z disorder changes the expression profiles of large‐scale of salt responsive genes, announcing that H2A.Z is required for plant salt response. Genome‐wide H2A.Z mapping shows that H2A.Z level is induced by salt condition across promoter, transcriptional start site (TSS) and transcription ending sites (−1 kb to +1 kb), the peaks preferentially enrich at promoter regions near TSS. We further show that H2A.Z deposition within TSS provides a direct role on transcriptional control, which has both repressive and activating effects, while it is found generally H2A.Z enrichment negatively correlate with gene expression level response to salt stress. This study shed light on the H2A.Z function in salt tolerance, highlighting the complex regulatory mechanisms of H2A.Z on transcriptional activity for yielding appropriate responses to particularly environmental stress. Summary Statement: Arabidopsis H2A.Z is required for plant salt response. H2A.Z deposition near transcriptional start site provides a direct role on transcriptional control, which has both repressive and activating effects, while generally H2A.Z enrichment negatively correlate with gene expression level response to salt stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lithium chloride (LiCl) is an inexpensive and environmentally friendly salt abundant in the ocean. However, the insolubility of LiCl in conventional electrolyte solvents prevents the practical use of LiCl for lithium-ion batteries. Here, we report a novel method to increase the solubility of LiCl in a conventional electrolyte. The solubility of LiCl in ethylene carbonate (EC)/dimethyl carbonate (DMC) (1/1, v/v) is about quadrupled by adding a small amount of anion receptor with two urea moieties as recognition sites connecting with an ether chain. Anion receptor is an organic molecule that can associate with anions. Our anion receptor is able to associate with chloride anion. The ionic conductivity of LiCl in EC/DMC increased from 0.023 mS cm−1 (without an anion receptor) to 0.075 mS cm−1 (with a 0.05 M anion receptor). The electrolyte in the presence of a 0.05 M receptor exhibits higher ionic conductivity, rate capability, and cyclability than the electrolyte without the receptor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Evidence of ancient Maya exploitation of salt, other marine resources, settlement, and sea trade is hidden in flooded mangrove landscapes on the cays, mainland, and in shallow offshore locations on the south coast of Belize. This article includes a discussion of the coastal economy from the Middle Preclassic through the Postclassic periods (600 B.C.–A.D. 1500). Data from sites discovered and excavated since 1982 in the coastal area of the Port Honduras and Paynes Creek National Park support a model of coastal reliance on marine resources and tree crops. The need for a regular supply of coastal salt to inland cities may have expanded the market for other marine resources. Obsidian imported from volcanic highlands documents long-distance trade throughout prehistory in the area. The island of Wild Cane Cay expanded its role in long-distance coastal trade after the abandonment of inland cities in southern Belize at the end of the Classic period. Inundation of the region documented from the depths of radiocarbon-dated archaeological deposits below the water table and from a sediment core indicates sea-level rise of at least 1 m that submerged the coastal sites. The waterlogged deposits provided an ideal matrix for preservation of vertebrate material at Wild Cane Cay. The red mangrove (Rhizophora mangle) peat below the sea floor in a shallow lagoon preserved wooden buildings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A [3+2]/[2+1] domino annulation reaction of cyclohexadienones and α‐aryl vinylsulfonium salts has been reported. A range of cyclopropane fused tricyclic enones bearing four contiguous stereocenters were obtained as a single diastereomer in 44–93% yields. The synthetic utility was demonstrated with the gram‐scale reactions and further transformations of the products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inorganic hydrated salt phase change materials (PCMs) hold promise for improving the energy conversion efficiency of thermal systems and facilitating the exploration of renewable thermal energy. Hydrated salts, however, often suffer from low thermal conductivity, supercooling, phase separation, leakage and poor solar absorptance. In recent years, compounding hydrated salts with functional carbon materials has emerged as a promising way to overcome these shortcomings and meet the application demands. This work reviews the recent progress in preparing carbon-enhanced hydrated salt phase change composites for thermal management applications. The intrinsic properties of hydrated salts and their shortcomings are firstly introduced. Then, the advantages of various carbon materials and general approaches for preparing carbon-enhanced hydrated salt PCM composites are briefly described. By introducing representative PCM composites loaded with carbon nanotubes, carbon fibers, graphene oxide, graphene, expanded graphite, biochar, activated carbon and multifunctional carbon, the ways that one-dimensional, two-dimensional, three-dimensional and hybrid carbon materials enhance the comprehensive thermophysical properties of hydrated salts and affect their phase change behavior is systematically discussed. Through analyzing the enhancement effects of different carbon fillers, the rationale for achieving the optimal performance of the PCM composites, including both thermal conductivity and phase change stability, is summarized. Regarding the applications of carbon-enhanced hydrate salt composites, their use for the thermal management of electronic devices, buildings and the human body is highlighted. Finally, research challenges for further improving the overall thermophysical properties of carbon-enhanced hydrated salt PCMs and pushing towards practical applications and potential research directions are discussed. It is expected that this timely review could provide valuable guidelines for the further development of carbon-enhanced hydrated salt composites and stimulate concerted research efforts from diverse communities to promote the widespread applications of high-performance PCM composites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Following a request from the European Commission, EFSA was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on the safety and efficacy of sodium ferrocyanide and potassium ferrocyanide as technological feed additives for all animal species. In its previous opinion on the safety and efficacy of the additives, the FEEDAP Panel concluded that the use of sodium ferrocyanide and potassium ferrocyanide is safe, when added to sodium chloride at a maximum content of 80 mg ferrocyanide anions (anhydrous)/kg for turkeys for fattening and laying hens and other laying/breeding birds, all porcine species and categories, all ruminant species and categories, rabbits, horses, salmonids and other minor fin fish, dogs and cats. However, the Panel could not conclude on the safety of the additives for chickens for fattening and other poultry species for fattening or reared for laying/breeding other than turkeys, and for all species/categories other than the above listed. In the current assessment, the applicant is proposing a maximum content of 60 mg ferrocyanide anions (anhydrous)/kg sodium chloride for chickens for fattening and other poultry species (except turkeys) for fattening or reared for laying/breeding and for all species/categories other than the listed above. The FEEDAP Panel concluded that sodium ferrocyanide and potassium ferrocyanide are safe at a maximum content of 80 mg ferrocyanide anions (anhydrous)/kg sodium chloride for: turkeys for fattening and reared for breeding, laying hens and other laying/breeding birds, all porcine species, all ruminant species, rabbits, equines, salmonids and minor fin fish, dogs and cats. The Panel concluded also that a maximum content of 60 mg ferrocyanide anions (anhydrous)/kg sodium chloride is safe for chickens for fattening and minor poultry species for fattening or reared for laying/breeding and all other animal species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research examined the response of flax-fiber-reinforced composites (FFRCs) to simulated outdoor conditions involving repeated exposure to salt fog and drying. The study investigated the effect of cycles on the toughness of the FFRCs. To achieve this, the composites were exposed to humidity (salt fog) for 10 days, followed by 18 days of drying in cycles. A total of up to 3 cycles, each lasting 4 weeks, were conducted over a 12-week period. Throughout this process, changes in the material's weight, water absorption, and mechanical properties were monitored by water uptake and three-point bending tests. The findings revealed the significant impact of these humid–dry cycles on the mechanical response of the FFRCs. When exposed to humid environments without drying, the composite's toughness increased significantly, due to a weakening effect more pronounced for stiffness, with strength reductions of about 20%. However, subsequent drying partially restored the material's performance. After 18 days of drying, the composite regained most of its initial performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plants are often exposed to biotic or abiotic stress, which can seriously impede their growth and development. In recent years, researchers have focused especially on the study of plant responses to biotic and abiotic stress. As one of the most widely planted grapevine rootstocks, 'Beta' has been extensively proven to be highly resistant to stress. However, further research is needed to understand the mechanisms of abiotic stress in 'Beta' rootstocks. In this study, we isolated and cloned a novel WRKY transcription factor, VhWRKY44, from the 'Beta' rootstock. Subcellular localization analysis revealed that VhWRKY44 was a nuclear-localized protein. Tissue-specific expression analysis indicated that VhWRKY44 had higher expression levels in grape roots and mature leaves. Further research demonstrated that the expression level of VhWRKY44 in grape roots and mature leaves was highly induced by salt and cold treatment. Compared with the control, Arabidopsis plants overexpressing VhWRKY44 showed stronger resistance to salt and cold stress. The activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD), and catalase (CAT) were significantly increased, and the contents of proline, malondialdehyde (MDA) and chlorophyll were changed considerably. In addition, significantly higher levels of stress-related genes were detected in the transgenic lines. The results indicated that VhWRKY44 was an important transcription factor in 'Beta' with excellent salt and cold tolerance, providing a new foundation for abiotic stress research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of ultrasound (us) for the determination of main component (NaCl) and main admixtures (CaCl2, MgCl2) of natural brine was investigated. The NaCl content was determined using us of ultrahigh frequency (10 to 25 MHz with the optimum at 20–22 MHz) and of 20 W·cm−2 intensity. The admixture concentrations were determined with the simultaneous application of us of ultrahigh (10–25 MHz) and low (18–23 kHz) frequencies at intensities of 20 and 1.3–1.5 W·cm−2, respectively. This approach reduced the lower determination boundary down to 0.1 g·dm−3, i.e., by a factor of 5. An analytical routine of complex determination of sodium chloride and macroimpurities content in brines of different origin was developed using sonoluminescence spectroscopy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SUMMARY: The Q transcription factor plays important roles in improving multiple wheat domestication traits such as spike architecture, threshability and rachis fragility. However, whether and how it regulates abiotic stress adaptation remain unclear. We found that the transcriptional expression of Q can be induced by NaCl and abscisic acid treatments. Using the q mutants generated by CRISPR/Cas9 and Q overexpression transgenic lines, we showed that the domesticated Q gene causes a penalty in wheat salt tolerance. Then, we demonstrated that Q directly represses the transcription of TaSOS1‐3B and reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenging genes to regulate Na+ and ROS homeostasis in wheat. Furthermore, we showed that wheat salt tolerance protein TaWD40 interacts with Q to competitively interfere with the interaction between Q and the transcriptional co‐repressor TaTPL. Taken together, our findings reveal that Q directly represses the expression of TaSOS1 and some ROS scavenging genes, thus causing a harmful effect on wheat salt tolerance. Significance Statement: This study uncovers a penalty effect of Q on wheat salt tolerance and reveal the underlying molecular mechanism, which provide a strategy for decoupling of spike domestication traits' improvement and salt tolerance regulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SUMMARY: Salinity is frequently mentioned as a major constraint in worldwide agricultural production. Lint percentage (LP) is a crucial yield‐component in cotton lint production. While the genetic factors affect cotton yield in saline soils are still unclear. Here, we employed a recombinant inbred line population in upland cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) and investigated the effects of salt stress on five yield and yield component traits, including seed cotton yield per plant, lint yield per plant, boll number per plant, boll weight, and LP. Between three datasets of salt stress (E1), normal growth (E2), and the difference values dataset of salt stress and normal conditions (D‐value), 87, 82, and 55 quantitative trait loci (QTL) were detectable, respectively. In total, five QTL (qLY‐Chr6‐2, qBNP‐Chr4‐1, qBNP‐Chr12‐1, qBNP‐Chr15‐5, qLP‐Chr19‐2) detected in both in E1 and D‐value were salt related QTL, and three stable QTL (qLP‐Chr5‐3, qLP‐Chr13‐1, qBW‐Chr5‐5) were detected both in E1 and E2 across 3 years. Silencing of nine genes within a stable QTL (qLP‐Chr5‐3) highly expressed in fiber developmental stages increased LP and decreased fiber length (FL), indicating that multiple minor‐effect genes clustered on Chromosome 5 regulate LP and FL. Additionally, the difference in LP caused by Gh_A05G3226 is mainly in transcription level rather than in the sequence difference. Moreover, silencing of salt related gene (GhDAAT) within qBNP‐Chr4‐1 decreased salt tolerance in cotton. Our findings shed light on the regulatory mechanisms underlining cotton salt tolerance and fiber initiation. Significance Statement: Our study provided important gene resources for salt tolerance improvement of cotton, and shed light on the regulatory mechanisms underlining plant salt tolerance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Saha-IESC (Saha Ionisation Equilibrium Shift Correction) is a novel approach designed to correct for ionisation interference in the analysis of various solution samples. It integrates the Saha equation, plasma electroneutrality, the ideal gas equation, and the mass conservation equation to determine electron densities and the densities of various particles. Then, it establishes a correlation between spectral line intensities, particle densities, and concentrations, allowing for accurate quantitative analyses. For plasma sources deviating from LTE (Local Thermodynamic Equilibrium), the model introduces a variety of plasma temperatures. Saha-IESC can accurately quantify both macro and trace elements without strict matrix matching between the standard and samples to be tested. Nor does it require a large number of samples as in machine learning. When combined with the concept of spectral standardisation, it can also correct the spectral intensities. After calibration, the R2 values of the calibration function of elements in the certified reference materials (CRM) GWB(E)130459 were improved from 0.7599–0.9971 to 0.9902–0.9999. And the detection accuracies for several elements in the two certified reference samples were in the range of 90–104% (GWB(E)130459) and 89–102% (BWR3030-2016), respectively. The robustness of the model was assessed through spiked recoveries of six elements in four brines. The range of spiked recoveries was 94–150% (external standard), 97–152% (internal standard), and 80–120% (Saha-IESC), respectively. The Saha-IESC can greatly reduce the complexity of experimental design, while effectively suppressing the ionisation interference. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fossil fuels that are used to generate electrical energy are running low. Besides that, energy generated from fossil fuels causes global warming and climate change due to gas emissions such as carbon dioxide, leading to a greenhouse effect. In addition, the development of small electronic devices has created power demands, from initially in milli watt (mW), to microwatt (W) level for wireless sensor networks, which generally use batteries as a power supply. Therefore, environmentally friendly and renewable materials like coconut shells are needed to generate electrical energy. This research aims to generate electrical energy from a model using coconut shell activated carbon with sodium chloride (NaCI) electrolyte. The electrical energy generation model is composed of counter electrode-electrode-counter electrode. The electrode used was coconut shell-activated carbon. Three counter electrodes were used: aluminum, zinc and copper plates. The electrolyte used was sodium chloride (NaCl) solution. The electrolyte was injected between the electrode and the counter electrode, and heat was applied. When the electrolyte was injected into the electrical energy generation model, interaction occurred between the ions from the electrolyte and the functional groups, the pores of the activated carbon, and the counter electrode, and then electrons were released. The research results show that the voltage produced due to an in- crease in temperature up to A7=54 °C, is 0.875 volts for aluminum, 0.767 volts for zinc and 0.091 volts for copper. The average ther- mal voltage sensitivity (dV/dT) for aluminum is 68.99297 mV/°C, while that for zinc is 61.34319 mV/°C, and copper is 7.02533 mV/°C. The currents produced by aluminum, zinc and copper are 5.9 µA, 3.8 μ.Α and 0.157 μ.Α, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Delimiting salt inclusions from migrated images during the velocity model building flow is a time‐consuming activity that depends on highly human‐curated analysis and is subject to interpretation errors or limitations of the images and methods available. We propose a supervised deep learning based method to include three‐dimensional salt geometries in the velocity models. We compare two convolutional networks – based on the U‐Net architecture – which can process three‐dimensional seismic data. One architecture uses three‐dimensional convolutional kernels, and the other has convolutional long short‐term memory units. Each architecture requires specific preprocessing steps which affects their training and predictive performance. Both proposed architectures use subsurface offset gathers obtained from reverse time migration with an extended imaging condition as input and are trained to predict the salt inclusions. The velocity model used in migration is a reasonable approximation of sediment velocity but without salt inclusions. Thus, the migration model and, consequently, the migrated images are inaccurate due to the absence of the salt inclusion in the model using just the sediment velocity information for the segmentation. A similar salt inclusion methodology was previously validated for two‐dimensional approaches; we extend it to the three‐dimensional case. Our approach relies on subsurface common image gathers to focus the sediments' reflections around the zero offset and spread salt reflections' energy over large subsurface offsets. The results show that both proposed network models can accurately delineate the salt bodies in the test models, but when evaluating the trained networks for the three‐dimensional SEG/EAGE salt model, the architecture with convolutional long short‐term memory units has proven to generalize better. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the Cu/Cu2O and Cu/Cu2O/CuO electrodes were successfully fabricated from the copper layer of a printed circuit board using an electrical oxidation method. The physical properties of these samples were verified through X-Ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) measurements. The Cu/Cu2O and Cu/CuO/Cu2O electrodes were employed as non-enzyme sensors for the detection of glucose in the alkaline solution. The properties of electrodes were investigated using cyclic voltammetry and amperometry measurements with glucose solution. The results show that both types of electrodes can detect and quantify glucose concentrations. The Cu/Cu2O/CuO composite electrode demonstrated superior performance compared to the Cu/Cu2O electrode. The proposed sensor demonstrated a limit of detection of approximately 63.08 nM. Additionally, the proposed sensor was also investigated with various interfering substances, including ascorbic acid, urea, and table salt. The results revealed that the current intensity remained nearly unchanged for these substances, while it significantly increased from 0.3 to 2.5 mA/cm2 for glucose. With these achieved results, the developed system shows promise for application in glucose testing systems, benefiting diabetic patients in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Attributing the sources of legacy contamination, including brines, is important to determine remediation options and to allocate responsibility. To make sound remediation decisions, it is necessary to distinguish subsurface sources, such as leaking oil and gas ("O&G") wells or natural upward fluid migrations, from surface releases. While chemical signatures of surface and subsurface releases may be similar, they are expected to imprint specific dissolved noble gas signatures, caused by the accumulation of terrigenic noble gases in subsurface leaks or re‐equilibration of noble gases following surface releases. We demonstrate that only a historic surface release influenced the dissolved noble gas signature of groundwater in monitoring wells contaminated with brine near an abandoned O&G well, rather than subsurface leakage from the well. Elevated brine concentrations were associated with lower terrigenic helium concentrations, indicating re‐equilibration with atmospheric helium at the surface during the release. Geophysical surveying indicating elevated salinity in surficial soils upgradient of the wells further supported the interpretation of the noble gas data. Eliminating the possibility that subsurface leakage was the source of the plume was critical to selecting the proper remedial action at the site, which otherwise may have included an unnecessary and costly well re‐abandonment. This study demonstrates the use of noble gas analysis to compare potential sources of brine contamination in groundwater and to exclude subsurface leakage as a potential source in an oilfield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The processes of determining the efficiency of Dawex Marathon WBA anionites in removing phosphates from water and creating waste-free processes for their regeneration were studied. In the course of an experimental study of sorption, model solutions of polluted water containing phosphates in a concentration of 40-100 mg dm-3 were passed through the low-based Dawex Marathon WBA anionite in chloride form. The dependence of TDEC on pH and temperature was established when filtering through low-base anionite DOWEX MARATHON WBA in chloride form. An important aspect of the research was the determination of the principles of extracting phosphates in the form of mineral fertilizer during repeated use of regeneration solutions. The processes of anionite regeneration have been studied. Regeneration of anionite was carried out with two solutions, in parallel, namely - 10 % solutions of sodium chloride, 10 % solution of ammonium chloride. It should be noted that the degree of regeneration is 97 - 98 %. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Salt stress is one of the main obstacles to citrus production in arid and semi-arid regions, limiting fruit production and quality, making it necessary to use tolerant genetic materials to improve the quality of citrus production in these regions. The objective of this work was to evaluate the fruit quality 'Tahiti' lime grafted onto different rootstocks grown under salt stress and to evaluate different storage days. Three 'Tahiti' lime genotypes, two electrical conductivity of irrigation water, and two storage time were studied. Salt stress increased the fruit quality of 'Tahiti' lime. Storage for 10 days increases ascorbic acid and soluble sugars, independent of genotype and salt stress, while all genotypes have desirable postharvest fruit quality characteristics. Genotypes 2 and 3 are promising to be cultivated in semi-arid regions, in addition to maintaining the fruit quality in conditions of salt stress. Therefore, grafting is a technique to increase the postharvest quality of 'Tahiti' lime grown under salt stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The components in our food are known as one of the important risk factors for the development of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection. A balanced diet, rich in fruits and vegetables, and free of fat, sugar, and salt, might protect people from the consequences of H. pylori infection. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to investigate the associations between ultra‐processed foods (UPFs) intake and the risk of H. pylori infection. The case–control study was conducted to assess the intake of UPFs in patients with H. pylori infection compared with healthy individuals. The dietary data of the contributors were collected by a validated food frequency questionnaire (FFQ). To estimate the UPFs intake, the classification of the NOVA food group was utilized. The associations of intake UPFs with H. pylori infection were assessed using binary logistic regression. Finally, dietary data of 150 cases and 302 controls (mean age: 39.5 ± 10.95 years) were analyzed. UPFs intake was associated with higher risk of H. pylori infection (odds ratio (OR) = 1.71; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.05, 2.79). The association remained constant after adjustment for age, body mass index (BMI), sex, energy intake, physical activity, smoking, and alcohol status (OR = 2.17; 95% CI: 1.22, 3.86). Our data declare that UPFs consumption could have a role in increasing the likelihood of the risk of H. pylori infection. To confirm the current findings, prospective studies are suggested. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Listeria monocytogenes is a ubiquitous opportunistic bacterium responsible for deadly listeriosis outbreaks. This pathogen has been recognized as a significant food‐borne pathogen in seafood products. The present study aimed to investigate the transcript levels of virulence, adhesion, and stress response genes of L. monocytogenes upon exposure to sublethal levels of lime juice and NaCl in shrimp matrix. For this purpose, minced and broth shrimp samples (control, 2% NaCl, 5% NaCl, 25 μL/mL lime, and 50 μL/mL lime, as well as 2% NaCl+25 μL/mL lime) were inoculated with approximately 107 CFU/g or ml of L. monocytogenes, and subsequently, the samples were stored at 12°C or 37°C. For the minced samples, the transcription of one stress‐related (sigB), two adhesion (imo1634 and imo1847), and four virulence (hly, prf, intA, and plc) genes was assessed by RT‐qPCR after different storage times (0 and 48 h). Results showed that the transcript levels of sigB, imo1847, and imo1634 genes increased with increasing storage temperatures of shrimp broth (12°C to 37°C). At the beginning, the transcription of the studied genes decreased in all treatments of minced shrimp; however, after 48 h of storage at 12°C, the transcript levels of hly, prf, imo1847, imo1634, and intA genes were significantly upregulated up to 0.5–9 log2 fold‐change in all treatments compared to the control group (p <.05). These results highlight that the survived L. monocytogenes after exposure to moderate salt content or lime juice could represent enhanced virulence and adhesion capabilities, posing a significant public health risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The negative effects of salt stress on plants and their environment are increasing dramatically day by day, and it is crucial for plants to develop salt tolerance with various applications and biotechnological approaches. For this purpose, it is possible to improve salt tolerance in plants through different studies using controlled and uniform in vitro cultures, which are an alternative approach to greenhouse and pot experiments that affected by external environmental conditions. In this study, 24-epibrassinolide (24-epiBL) was used for increasing salt tolerance in in vitro shoot tip cultures of tomato M-28 hybrid cultivar. Shoot tips of 10-day sterile seedlings were placed in MS medium supplemented with 2 mg L-1 K + 0.4 mg L-1 NAA in a 12-day culture period, and 12-day plantlets soaked in 24-epiBL solutions (0, 1, 2 µM) were transferred to MS medium containing different concentrations of NaCl (0, 20, 40, 60, 80, 100 mM). After 20 days, the plantlets derived from in vitro cultures were used to assess growth (length, fresh and dry weight of plantlets) and biochemical parameters (pigment, MDA, proline, total soluble protein contents, POX and SOD enzyme activities). All growth and biochemical parameters, including pigment and total soluble protein content, were adversely impacted by salt stress (particularly at 40, 60, 80, and 100 Mm NaCl concentrations). However, MDA, proline content, as well as SOD and POX enzyme activity, increased as a results of oxidative stress at the same NaCl concentrations. As a result, NaCl responses in plant differed between various NaCl and 24-epiBL concentrations, and the different defense strategies combine multiple tolerance mechanisms. Therefore, this study, indicates that pretreatment of 24-epiBL to plantlets derived from shoot tips of the tomato M-28 hybrid cultivar played crucial role in mitigating the effects of salt stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• We study the chemistry of the core and ocean of Enceladus based on different core compositions. • We study the hydrothermal products from the ocean-core interaction in the context of the chemistry of the plume of Enceladus. • We evaluate the chemistry of the ocean based on its possible pH values and the saturation indices of mineral products. • We find that the actual composition of the core poses a somewhat wide range of possible compositional scenarios. Measurements made by the Cassini spacecraft instruments were able to reveal the composition of the geysers of the Saturn moon, Enceladus, among which salts (sodium chloride, sodium bicarbonate and/ or sodium carbonate) and traces of silica could be the result of hydrothermal processes from the interaction of an inner liquid ocean with the core of Enceladus. The chemistry of the ocean should be closely connected to the chemistry of the core. Even though. the actual composition of the core is unknown, Enceladus has been characterised as a moon with a silicate core and different authors have estimated the properties of the ocean. A core with a silicate composition alone, does not necessarily justify most of the observed species of the plume. Given the many uncertainties, in the current work, we study the possible chemistry of the core and the ocean in the context of a four-layered Enceladus (dry core, hydrated core, ocean and crust) with three different compositional scenarios for the core: primordial (represented by an ordinary chondrite), composite (represented by a carbonaceous chondrite with an igneous inclusion) and non primordial (epresented by a given peridotite). The scenarios comprise a set of minerals that interact with a primordial ocean (either pure or enriched water) at a given temperature and pressure, producing a series of secondary minerals and compounds, some of them, coincident with the chemical species observed in the geysers. Specifically, we make a chemical speciation for each proposed compositional scenario with the software PhreeqC, however our analysis is limited to the study of interactions that reach a given equilibrium. In particular, output values like the potential of hydrogen of the ocean or the saturation indices of mineral products may give us hints about the chemistry of the ocean and the core. We find that, based on the species observed in the plume, the actual composition of the core (and the ocean as well) poses a somewhat wide range of possible compositional scenarios and each of our proposed scenarios and their products justify, to some extent, the observations of the plume. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]