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Glaciomarine laminated muds around the Antarctic continental margin are important in the marine geological record related to ice sheet dynamics. Microscopic observation and backscattered electron imagery of Pleistocene laminated muds in the Central Basin (Ross Sea) reveal that the light laminae comprise terrigenous angular to subangular silt‐sized particles, scattered diatom fragments, and eroded sand‐sized lumps of fossil‐bearing mud. In contrast, the dark laminae are clayey and biogenic with very tiny pieces of fossils. These laminated muds are interpreted to have been deposited by subglacial meltwater plumes underneath the advancing glaciers that torn off the earlier‐deposited and semi‐consolidated diatom‐rich sediments. Thus, most biogenic components of these laminated muds were recycled from older deposits, indicating that they are not related to enhanced biological production during the mud deposition. Our study suggests that the recycling of biogenic particles should be considered when interpreting the palaeoclimatic and palaeoceanographic implications of Antarctic environmental system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Turtles and tortoises are routinely presented to veterinarians for medical and surgical treatment. In many of these cases, sedation is required to properly examine the animal and perform necessary diagnostic tests. Unfortunately, there is a dearth of evidence-based research available to guide veterinarians working with these animals. In addition, the available publications show that there are differences between species. Therefore, with nearly 350 species of chelonians in the world, it is important for us to evaluate protocols on a species-by-species basis. In this study, six eastern mud turtles (Kinosternon subrubrum) were given 10 mg/kg alfaxalone via intramuscular (IM) and intravenous (IV) routes using a cross-over study design that allowed us to compare the results between and within turtles. As expected, the IV route led to a faster induction and recovery. This study demonstrated that alfaxalone 10 mg/kg IV or IM can be used to provide safe and effective sedation in eastern mud turtles. Current sedation protocols for chelonians can pose a challenge to clinicians because of prolonged induction and recovery times, difficulties in gaining venous access, and natural species variation. This study evaluated the sedative and physiologic effects of intramuscular (IM) and intravenous (IV) alfaxalone in six wild-caught adult eastern mud turtles (Kinosternon subrubrum). The turtles received alfaxalone 10 mg/kg IM and IV in a randomized cross-over design. A 10-day washout period occurred between trials. Baseline parameters (heart rate, respiratory rate, temperature, and reflexes) were assessed prior to injection and every 5 min post-injection until recovery. Three venous blood gas samples were also collected and analyzed over the course of each trial (baseline, induction, and recovery). Intravenous alfaxalone resulted in a significantly faster induction (p = 0.016; median: 1.5 min, 25–75%: 1–7.5, minimum–maximum: 1–21) and a shorter total sedation time (p = 0.041; median: 52 min, 25–75%: 34.5–62.5, minimum–maximum: 33–87) when compared with IM alfaxalone (induction, median: 20 min, 25–75%: 15–22.5, minimum–maximum: 15–25; total, median: 70 min, 25–75%: 65–82.5, minimum–maximum: 65–90). Blood gas and physiologic parameters were not significantly different between groups; however, the pH (p = 0.009) and glucose (p = 0.0001) significantly increased, and partial pressure of carbon dioxide (p = 0.024) significantly decreased over time. This study demonstrated that alfaxalone 10 mg/kg IV or IM can be used to provide safe and effective sedation in eastern mud turtles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

At the Subba oil field, wellbore stability is the main concern while drilling. The wellbore's instability causes several issues, including: (inefficient hole cleaning, tight hole, stuck pipe, mud losses, caving, bad cementing, and well kick or blowout). This increases Non-Productive Time (NPT) and well-drilling costs; hence the operator's main goal is to create a drilling program that reduces these problems and therefore reduce drilling cost. The study aims to build a 1D mechanical earth model to predict the wellbore failure and design optimum mud weight to improve the drilling efficiency for future wells. The model includes pore pressure, stress state, and rock mechanical parameters (such as UCS, angle of friction, Young-Modulus, and PoissonRatio). To achieve this aim, the study utilised offset well data including log data (Gama-Ray Logs (GR), Caliper Logs (CALI), Density Logs (RHOZ), and Compressional Sonic (DTCO) and Shear Sonic (DTSM)), Core tests, Mini-frac field tests, Drilling Reports, Mud Reports, and Mud Log Reports (master log) to estimate and calibrate the profiles of formation pore pressure, rock mechanical properties, and in-situ stresses. The 1D mechanical earth model was built using the Excel program for three wells data set, where all the necessary parameters to create the model was calculated, calibrated for the calculated variables with core data and pressure test points, and finally the safe mud window was detected. The results showed that the Eaton Slowness method to predict pore pressure perfectly matches the pressure test points. The most common fault regimes in the Subba oilfield are normal and strike-slip faults. The Modified Lade criteria showed a compatible match with drilling events and calliper log in predicting the failure zones, so it is the best criterion in determining minimum and maximum mud weight. Based on the results of this study and in comparison with the mud window used in drilling operations in the field, it is necessary to change the mud window used in drilling and adopt the safe MWW of this study in drilling new wells in this field and the area adjacent to the field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Red mud was modified by impregnation with Co element loading. The Co-RM catalyst was characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), X-ray fluorescence (XRF), and UV full-band scanning. The results showed that the modified Co-RM catalyst successfully loaded the Co element and formed an irregular pore structure on the surface, thereby increasing the number of active sites of the red mud catalyst and effectively improving the degradation efficiency of tetracycline. Under the optimal conditions of a catalyst dosage of 0.3 g/L, a persulfate dosage of 3 g/L, a reaction temperature of 50 °C, and a pH value of 7, a removal rate of 50 mg/L of tetracycline can be achieved: 89.5% after 90 min. The effects of common anions and humic acids in water, as well as radical quenchers (anhydrous ethanol and tert-butanol), on the degradation of tetracycline were investigated. The results showed that Cl−, CO32−, HCO3−, H2PO4−, NO32−, HPO42−, and humic acids showed inhibitory effects on the degradation of tetracycline, while SO42− showed a promoting effect on the degradation of tetracycline. The free radical quenching experiment showed that the most important free radicals that can degrade tetracycline in the system are sulfate radicals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, interest in natural therapeutic mud has been growing all over the world. This natural product has a positive therapeutic effect on the skin and has fewer side effects on the human body. There are more than 40 thousand salt lakes in Kazakhstan. Most of them have natural mud sources, the potential of which has not yet been fully explored. The review presents an analysis of the available information on the physical and chemical properties of the main sources of natural mud from salt lakes in Kazakhstan and Kazakh sanatoriums that use natural mud in the treatment. All available publications, presenting the systematic studies, were used for data analysis. A comparative analysis of the mineralization of water, brine, and silt in one reservoir shows that the mineralization of water is not always the least. The available data indicate a point and partial nature of peloid studies, e.g., inorganic composition of natural muds from Western and Southern Kazakhstan is well described in the literature. In turn, there is a lack of these data from Northern and Eastern Kazakhstan. Studies of peloids in these regions seem to be a promising direction of the future research for both local and world scientists. What is more, there is also a big gap in the analysis of organic matter of muds from the Kazakh lakes. Comparing the state of the art, i.e., the studies from other parts of Asia and Europe, the identification of the organic part of muds is another desirable direction as a potential source of biologically active compounds of natural origin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pit mud (PM) is among the key factors determining the quality of Nongxiangxing baijiu, a Chinese liquor. Microorganisms present inside PM are crucial for the unique taste and flavor of this liquor. In this study, headspace solid-phase microextraction was used in combination with gas chromatography and high-throughput sequencing to determine the volatile compounds and microbial community structure of 10- and 40-year PM samples from different spaces. The basic physicochemical properties of the PM were also determined. LEfSe and RDA were used to systematically study the PM in different time spaces. The physicochemical properties and ester content of the 40-year PM were higher than those of the 10-year PM, but the spatial distribution of the two years PM samples exhibited no consistency, except in terms of pH, available phosphorus content, and ester content. In all samples, 29 phyla, 276 families, and 540 genera of bacteria, including four dominant phyla and 20 dominant genera, as well as eight phyla, 24 families, and 34 genera of archaea, including four dominant phyla and seven dominant genera, were identified. The LEfSe analysis yielded 18 differential bacteria and five differential archaea. According to the RDA, the physicochemical properties and ethyl caproate, ethyl octanoate, hexanoic acid, and octanoic acid positively correlated with the differential microorganisms of the 40-year PM, whereas negatively correlated with the differential microorganisms of the 10-year PM. Thus, we inferred that Caproiciproducens, norank_f__Caloramatoraceae, and Methanobrevibacter play a dominant and indispensable role in the PM. This study systematically unveils the differences that affect the quality of PM in different time spaces and offers a theoretical basis for improving the declining PM, promoting PM aging, maintaining cellars, and cultivating an artificial PM at a later stage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A three-step sequential extraction was carried out by modified BCR approach for fractionation of metals, including rare earths in red mud. Acetic acid leaching, hydroxylamine hydrochloride + nitric acid leaching, hydrogen peroxide + acid ammonium acetate leaching, and orthophosphoric + nitric acid digestion in microwave were performed to determine ion exchangeable (F1), reducible (F2), oxidizable (F3), and residual (F4) fractions of metals, respectively. Accordingly, the highest readily soluble phases were obtained for Ca, Na, and K, while the reducible were Al, Zn, Cu, and Li. Rare earth elements (REEs) except for Eu were mostly identified in residual fraction. Most of Eu (88.7%) was detected in the reducible fraction, while the negligible part in residual. Chondrite normalization was implemented for obtaining REE anomalies. The remarkable Eu and Gd negative anomaly differences were determined between the red mud and its origin, Mortaş bauxite. The LREE to HREE ratio and LaN/YbN scores of 8.42 and 7.82, respectively indicated the LREE enrichment to HREE. By performing multivariate analysis, six and five-group clusters were obtained for REEs and non-REE metals in terms of fractional distribution, proving the easier release potential of Eu, La, Gd, K, Na, and Ca. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

REY‐rich mud, consisting of deep‐sea sediments with high concentrations of rare‐earth elements and yttrium (REY), holds significant economic potential. Many studies have been conducted on biogenic apatite, ferromanganese micronodule, and phillipsite within these deposits to ascertain the REY enrichment mechanisms. However, the knowledge of clay minerals in REY‐rich mud, which is the predominant component of pelagic sediments, is still limited. In this study, two adjacent gravity cores (core GC02: REY‐rich mud; core GC03: typical sediments of equatorial Pacific) were collected from the Clarion‐Clipperton Fracture Zone (CCFZ) of the Eastern Pacific to study the role of different clay minerals in REY enrichment. The clay minerals in core GC03 and core GC02 are primarily illite (averaging 60%) and smectite (averaging 63%), respectively, and the smectite in core GC02 was mainly Fe‐rich, which was probably formed via the reaction between opal and FeOOH. Moreover, multiple studies have reported similar smectite enrichment in REY‐rich mud, suggesting that it is a common characteristic. The presumed hydrothermal or volcanic origination of smectite in REY‐rich layers of core GC02 indicates the essential role of hydrothermal and volcanic activities in REY‐rich mud formation during the Oligocene in the western CCFZ. Key Points: Smectite is likely to be commonly enriched in rare‐earth elements and yttrium (REY)‐rich mud of the PacificAuthigenic smectite probably originated from hydrothermal or volcanic activity and concentrated moderate amounts of REYThe REY‐rich mud of the western Clarion‐Clipperton Fracture Zone presumably formed through hydrothermal or volcanic activities during the Oligocene [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, black TiO2 (BTiO2) loaded on black red mud (BRM) was successfully prepared with the conversion of Fe2O3 into magnetic Fe3O4 in red mud and the reduction of partial Ti4+ to Ti3+ in TiO2 via the facile sol–gel method and H2 reduction treatment. The obtained low-cost BRM/BTiO2 composites exhibit remarkable photocatalytic degradation toward rhodamine B (91.2%) and tetracycline (83.6%) under visible light irradiation, much better than pristine TiO2. This enhancement is attributed to the narrow bandgap with the desired solar-light excitation, the black color with good solar-light absorption, and the heterojunctions with the efficient separation of photogenerated electron–hole pairs. Moreover, the desired magnetic separation of BRM/BTiO2 composites realizes the recycle and recovery of photocatalysts, favoring practical applications in environment. This work provides a cost-efficiency way to prepare RM-supported TiO2 composites for treating organic pollutants in the wastewater, which is of great significance to the comprehensive utilization of RM waste, the cost saving of the photocatalyst, and the visible-light active enhancement of TiO2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Nongxiangxing baijiu (NB) is known for its distinct flavor profile, which is attributed to key aroma compounds. The exposed fermentation technique, utilizing daqu and solid‐state fermentation in pit muds, plays a crucial role in flavor development. Though previous studies have investigated the impact of microorganisms from pit ?ud and fermented grains on flavor compound production, a comprehensive understanding of microbial functions in the entire pit fermentation system is lacking. Herein, we aimed to explore the role of pit‐mud‐derived microorganisms in shaping the microbial community and flavor compound synthesis in NB. RESULTS: There are 76 volatile flavor compounds that have been identified in fermented grains during NB fermentation. The main flavor compounds in NB clustered within the same network module, and 27.27% of microorganisms in the core modules of the fermented grain co‐occurrence network originated from pit mud. The relationship between pit mud microorganisms and flavor compounds revealed a significant positive correlation (92%). Notably, Prevotella and Sarocladium were identified as the main contributors to this effect on flavor. CONCLUSION: Microorganisms originating from pit mud influenced the composition and activity of microorganisms in fermented grains and facilitated the production of flavor compounds in NB. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry. [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 unceasing utilization of diesel oil, the regular base fluid, as the base fluid of drilling mud has brought about severe ecological worries and regulation because of its poisonousness, non-biodegradability, and similarity issues. Notwithstanding, drilling more complex wells is turning out to be progressively significant in satisfying the world's need for oil and gas, bringing about increased commercial synthetic-based fluid importation. In light of the ecological worries associated with the usage of diesel-based drilling fluids as well as reducing commercial synthetic-based fluid imports, black seed oil (BSO) was utilized to make an ester for a new ecologically safe drilling fluid. This research explored the potential use of black seed ester in formulating oil-based muds with standard additives. It compares its qualities to that of diesel following a thorough mud check on the mud samples to evaluate the rheological properties and the impact of aging at test temperatures of 86°F, 120°F, and 150°F. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectrometry technique affirmed that BSO ester is a natural compound. About the flow properties, the kinematic thickness at 40 °C of the biodiesel is 4.31 mm2/s and is higher than that of petroleum diesel, which is 3.52 mm2/s. Densities for the ester and diesel oil-based mud tests were 7.9 ppg, 7.8 ppg, 7.3 ppg, and 6.8 ppg, respectively, at 70/30, 75/25, and 80/20, oil–water-proportion (OWR), as utilized in the mud formulation. The prepared mud was aged for 24 h under static conditions to guarantee total hydration. Black seed oil (BSO) ester mud exhibited lower viscosity at all temperatures, aging conditions, and shear rates analyzed, making it more suitable for oil-well drilling fluids when compared with Diesel. BSO being a naturally occurring seed oil could be important for drilling contractors and service companies due to its good ecological acceptability and its applicability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of red mud in the geopolymer production is an attractive method for managing this waste. However, the processing steps usually applied, such as drying and grinding, can significantly increase the material processing costs, and consequently increase the cost of the final product. In this study, geopolymers were developed using red mud "in natura" (non‐processed slurry) and glass waste powder. Parameters including SiO2/Al2O3 ratio (4, 5, and 6), NaOH solution (6, 8, and 10 M) and curing duration (10, 28, and 56 days), were examined to understand the extent and degree of geopolymerization. Compressive strength tests were performed along with the analysis of their microstructural characteristics using quantitative x‐ray diffraction (QXRD) analysis based on Rietveld's refinement method, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and thermal analysis (TG and DTA). As a result, higher SiO2/Al2O3 ratios and NaOH solution concentrations generally lead to greater compressive strength, which ranges from 9.7 to 43.1 MPa. Microstructural and compositional analyses demonstrated that the final products consist of an amorphous geopolymer binder, crystalline phases originating from raw RM and a neoformed phase, Garronite. This study showed that the RM without any processing step displays a high potential in the geopolymer production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mud cake quality is the key to evaluating the plugging capacity of workover fluid and plays an important role in wellbore stability and reservoir protection. A hydraulic mechanical coupling model was established to investigate the mechanism of mud cake dynamic characteristics while considering the influence of annular flow field, filtrate invasion and particle deposition theory in combination with the dynamic plugging effect of mud cake. The influences of filtration time, particle size distribution, solid fraction, workover fluid viscosity and formation lithologic characteristics on mud cake dynamic properties, pore pressure, collapse pressure and fracture pressure were investigated. The results show that improving mud cake sealing performance is conducive to broadening the safe mud weight window. A small mean particle size is conducive to improving the coalescence stability of the particles, which can form a dense mud cake. A large standard deviation can improve the dispersion of particle size distribution and enhance the matching efficiency between particle size and pore throat. An increase in solid fraction mud cake is beneficial to building up a thin and dense plugging zone. Workover fluid viscosity has no significant influence on collapse pressure and fracture pressure. The formation permeability has the most significant impact on fracture pressure, which proves the good adaptability of wellbore strengthening technology in high permeability formation. Highlights: The definition of time-dependent mud cake was developed. A hydro-mechanical wellbore stability risk prediction model was developed. The suggestions for the optimization of drilling fluid were provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To investigate the potential use of Red mud (RM) and desulfurization gypsum (DG) in dealing with roadbed filling, a series of laboratory tests, such as compaction tests, unconfined compressive strength (USC) tests, water stability tests, basic physical-chemical properties tests and microscopic tests were conducted on the abandoned silt (AS) from Foshan, Guangdong. The results indicates that the strength and water stability of cement-treated AS increase with the addition of RM and DG. The UCS of specimens with the addition of 3% RM and 2% DG increases by 23.33% than that of pure OPC after 60 days of curing. Meanwhile, the water stability coefficient of DG-RM-OPC treated AS is increased by 0.41% to 14.42% compared to OPC treated AS, especially for C5RM6DG4, whose water stability coefficient is increased by 14.42%. The main reason can be attributed to the collaborative effects between RM and DG, under which the SiO2- 4 provided by DG reacts with the Al3+ provided by RM to promote the formation of AFt. The research results show promising application of RM and DG in cement-treated AS, and provide a reference for the utilization of AS, RM and DG. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper deals with the evaluation of the structure of selected hazardous wastes from the production of metals, namely waste from the production of aluminium - red mud and waste from the production of nickel - black nickel mud. In environmental applications, red mud and black nickel mud are likely to be used after activation. The samples were activated using hydrochloric acid to study the structure properties before and after the treatment. Both of these wastes have suitable adsorption and catalytic properties that could be positively affected by the activation of their surfaces. The morphology of the samples was documented by scanning electron microscope, phase analysis was performed using diffraction techniques, and the content of elements was determined by EDX analysis. Also, FTIR analysis of the samples was performed. Activation increases the specific surface area of samples, which is beneficial in many environmental applications, such as in the adsorptive removal of pollutants. Treatment of samples changes the surface properties of the adsorbent, such as electrostatic, hydrophobic, and hydrophilic. The activation creates a new surface structure and thus affects its properties. EDX analysis confirmed the high content of Fe, Al, Si and Ti, which are responsible for good adsorption and catalytic properties. X-ray diffractograms have shown only slight changes in the structure of wastes after activation. The results of SEM confirmed the changes in the surface structure and the creation of new active centres necessary for the successful adsorption process. The FTIR analysis determined the changes in the structure of the samples mainly due to the thermal degradation of C=O and O-Si-O bonds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A protocol study was designed to examine cutaneous behavior after continuous application of a peloid in the dry mineral residue of Lanjarón-Capuchina natural mineral water. This study aims to analyze the biomechanical behavior of normal skin using various non-invasive bioengineering techniques after the application of this peloid. We determine the effects of its application for 3 months on 38 healthy volunteers (41.4 ± 5.9 years, range 32–58) without a previous history of skin diseases by courtmetry, sebumetry, pH-metry, reviscometry, and tewametry. It was shown that the production of cutaneous sebum is significantly reduced by 6%, trans epidermal skin loss (TEWL) by 21%, skin fatigue by 30%, elasticity increased by 19%, firmness by 5%, and a skin redensification by 6% was obtained under these experimental conditions. Disparate and non-significant results were obtained concerning pH and viscoelasticity. Continuous skin care with the Lanjarón-Capuchina natural peloid modifies skin behavior, normalizing sebaceous secretion, favoring the biomechanical properties of the skin and the skin barrier function without modifying skin homeostasis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Qurh is an early Islamic city located in the al-Ula governorate, northwest of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. It dates to the Umayyad dynasty during the 1st/7th C AD and continued until the Abbasid era during the 6th/12th C AD. The city of Qurh occupies a strategic location on the Syrian pilgrimage route, on the bank of Wadi al-Qura, one of the most important sources that provided the city with abundant quantities of water for drinking and agriculture. The city contains a large number of buildings and various archaeological remains, some of which have been excavated and the rest, which constitutes the largest part of the city, is still under the sand. Since the main building material in Qurh is mud brick, the city's architectural structures are subject to deterioration and collapse. Mud brick is one of our ancestor’s precious legacies; however, they face changing factors of deterioration from harsh weather, which caused mud brick decay and mechanical properties reduction which need to be urgently consolidated. To our knowledge, it is the first report on the application of Calcium Hydroxide Nanoparticles Ca(OH)2. for the consolidation of mud brick deteriorated the archaeological city of Qurh in al-Ula. Nowadays, nanotechnology provides advanced concepts and new materials for the protection of mud bricks. In this study, a novel method for the consolidation of mud brick was proposed with Calcium hydroxide Nanoparticles Ca(OH)2. Mud brick was investigated, characterized by using different techniques and methods, such as Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM-EDX), Polarized Microscopy (PLM), X-ray Folrences (XRF) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The results showed that Calcium hydroxide Nanoparticles have enhanced the surfaces of mud bricks. Therefore, this study aims to highlight the historical and architectural value of the city of Qurh, develop a plan to conserve the heritage buildings in the city, and treatment of mud bricks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite robust evidence that misinformation continues to influence event-related reasoning after a clear retraction, evidence for the continued influence of misinformation on person impressions is mixed. Across four experiments, we investigated the impact of person-related misinformation and its correction on dynamic (moment-to-moment) impression formation. Participants formed an impression of a protagonist, "John", based on a series of behaviour descriptions, including misinformation that was later retracted. Person impressions were recorded after the presentation of each behaviour description. As predicted, we found a strong effect of information valence on person impressions: negative misinformation had a greater impact on person impressions than positive misinformation (Experiments 1 and 2). Furthermore, in each experiment participants fully discounted the misinformation once retracted, regardless of whether the misinformation was negative or positive. This was true even when the other behaviour descriptions were congruent with (Experiment 2) or causally related to the retracted misinformation (Experiments 3 and 4). To test for generalisation, Experiment 4 used a different misinformation statement; it again showed no evidence for the continued influence of retracted misinformation on person impressions. Our findings indicate that person-related misinformation can be effectively discounted following a clear retraction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective was to determine a mathematical model to calculate the deposition velocity of the mud resulting from the washing of aggregates from the Jobo Base Business Unit of Sagua de Tánamo, which is transported by pipelines. Sampling, granulometric and densimetric analyzes were carried out and a complete factorial experiment design with four tests and two replications each was used. The input variable, percentage of solids, was studied at four levels (4%, 12%, 20% and 28%). It was determined that the clay contained in the mud, due to its predominant granulometry of less than 40 µm, classifies as silt. It was also revealed that the density of the solid is 1,901 kg/m3. The results of the deposition velocity determined by indirect measurement and those predicted by calculations using the Durand model were compared, with the aim of improving its precision and reliability, obtaining a relative coincidence error of less than 5%. A correction function is determined that quantifies the relationship between gravitational sedimentation velocity and deposition velocity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Mud crab culture/fattening is a lucrative business with high profit margins because they have high economic and export value. Compared with shrimp culture, crab fattening has many advantages such as a short production cycle, high tolerance to poor water quality, rapid growth rates in captivity, etc. Currently, cheap commercial feed for crabs is unavailable, so raw feeds such as low‐value fishes have been used for rearing mud crabs. The current study was conducted to determine the growth performance of mud crab Scylla serrata that were fed with different processed wet feeds. Methods: Crabs weighing 250–300 g were stocked in individual cages, and the experiment was conducted with three different feed treatments including processed chicken intestine, processed shrimp head waste, oyster meat, and the control feed was processed small‐sized low‐value fish. Result: Of all the feeds, mud crabs that were fed with chicken intestine showed better performance, followed by oyster meat, shrimp head waste, and low‐value fish. Conclusion: The present study concludes that fattening mud crabs with chicken intestine as feed showed better growth and economic performance. Impact statementIn India, low‐value fishes have been generally used as a wet feed for mud crab culture. Using chicken intestine as an alternative wet feed enhances the growth performance and economic performance in the mud crab culture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to evaluate the potential of wellbore stability and required drilling mud weight, a realistic advanced elastoplastic model representing accurately the post-peak rock behavior must be implemented to calculate the stresses and strains surrounding a wellbore. In this paper, the effect of drilling mud weight on the normalized yield zone area (NYZA) around a carbonate oil wellbore placed in the southwest of IRAN is numerically evaluated based on the various advanced constitutive models. A kind of the frictional-strengthening cohesion-weakening model that estimates well the dimension and shape of the damage zone around the studied wellbore is selected to propose a relation for the NYZA versus mud weight diagrams. The general form of this mathematical equation for the NYZA-Mud Weight diagrams at different depths of the investigated wellbore obeys the negative exponential relation, and the coefficients of this relation were determined based on fitting. The evaluation of the results shows that there is acceptable accuracy between the predicted values and the values of NYZA measured by the numerical model. Furthermore, to assess the safe mud weight based on this advanced model considering the actual post-peak rock behavior, all criteria to distinguish between minor and major breakouts are reviewed in this paper, and the minimum safe mud weights are determined on the basis of the various criteria for the studied wellbore. The minimum safe mud weight based on the NYZA = 1 criterion is estimated very low. This is while the minimum safe mud weight for the studied wellbore according to the NYZA = 0.08 criterion is too high and unreasonable. On the other hand, the minimum mud weight is more realistically estimated based on the 90° criterion in comparison with the NYZA = 1 and NYZA = 0.08 criteria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To improve the detergency of mud stains without triphosphate, we developed a new composition that enhances the detergency of mud stains more efficiently. To develop the composition, a new correction method based on the probability density functional method was used to compare the results of approximately 100 cleaning tests conducted on different days using various active ingredients. As a result of various evaluations, it was found that the combination of a homopolymer with a molecular weight of approximately 2000 and a chelating agent can effectively improve the detergency of particle stains. By combining washing experiments with different polymer concentrations, water hardness, turbidity, and reduced viscosity, we were able to estimate the expansion of the polymer and the washing mechanism using a combination of low-molecular-weight polymers and chelating agents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High solid anaerobic digestion (HSAD) can not only produce methane-rich biogas for energy recovery but also treat kitchen waste (KW). However, HSAD of kitchen waste was of poor methane production due to its high organic compounds. Red mud (RM) is an alkaline conductive material that holds the potential to alleviate acidification and mediate the direct interspecies electron transfer (DIET) process when added to AD rectors. In this study, effects of different RM dosage addition (10, 30, 50, 70, 90 g/L) on high solid kitchen waste anaerobic digestion (KWAD) was evaluated. The results showed that the cumulative biogas production and methane production of reactor with 50 g/L RM addition reached 362.36 ± 7.42 mL/g VS and 75.31 ± 2.41 mL/g VS, which were 45.98% and 210.04% higher compared with the control group, respectively. The abundance of bacteria and the methanogens (Synergistota, Methanosaeta) which potentially participated in DIET were enriched. In addition, RM addition might be beneficial to establish the syntrophic metabolic relationship between bacteria (Synergistota, Syntrophomonadaceae) and methanogens (Methanosaeta, Methanospirillum). This study provided initial scientific evidence to evaluate the role of RM in high solid KWAD system, with important implications for enhancing HSAD at economic cost. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mud pools are chemically similar to volcanism and are considered a pollution risk to ecosystems. The mud pools of Los Negritos, Michoacán, Mexico, additionally present untreated semi-urban wastewater discharges, livestock, and agricultural activities. This study aimed to identify sources, interaction, accumulation, spatial distribution, and mobilization of potentially toxic elements in water, soil, and plants of this site. The water is mainly alkaline (pH 7–8.45) with positive Eh values and T in the 17 to 63 °C range. The hydrothermal mud pools are the primary source of As found in water (1506 mg L−1), soil (153 mg kg−1), Agrostis sp. (108 mg kg−1), and Zea mays (115 mg kg−1). The potentially toxic elements seem immobilized in soil; even so, they are susceptible to being released when environmental conditions change, which represents a possible threat to the health of consumers by ingestion and bioaccumulation of As from water and corn. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Blade cutters are a component in paddy field pulping machines that perform mud splashing, and the design of their structural and motion parameters will directly affect the splashed-mud volume and pulping-machine efficiency. Therefore, the optimization of the blade cutter's structural and motion parameters is an important approach for improving the operating performance of paddy field pulping machines. In this study, based on the central-composite-design (CCD) method and a response-surface-method-based variance analysis, a regression-forecast model for the relationship between the splashing performance of the blade cutter and the blade's structural and motion parameters was constructed to determine the influence of these parameters on the multi-dimensional splashing performance of blade cutters. Additionally, with the construction of a multi-objective performance-optimization model for pulping-machine blade cutters, the predicted optimal structural and motion parameters could be obtained based on the genetic algorithm. The ideal operating performance could be achieved when the blade turning radius was 180 mm, with a bending angle of 125°, a sub-cutter dip angle of 63°, a forward velocity of 0.15 m/s, and a rotating speed of 158 r/min. Verification of the optimization results in a bench test showed that the mean relative errors between the theoretical and experimental values of the mud volume and power consumption were 9.13% and 8.86%, respectively, revealing the high accuracy of the mud-volume and power-consumption models. Furthermore, there was a significant reduction in blade-cutter unit power consumption of 19.13%. These research results can provide a theoretical reference and technical support for blade-cutter optimization and improving pulping-machine performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper investigates the mud pressure to maintain the stability of wellbores drilled in transversely isotropic shale through sensitivity analyses, carried out with analytical and numerical modeling (FLAC). To this end, we interpreted the anisotropic strength of the Tournemire shale with the Weakness Plane Model (WPM) and the modified Hoek–Brown criterion (HBm). The sensitivity analyses of synthetic case studies indicated a different trend in mud pressure for the two criteria. In some cases, the WPM predicts mud pressures higher than those predicted by the HBm and vice versa. The mud pressures predicted by the HBm resulted in being more sensitive to the increase in the anisotropy of the far field stresses for all the inclinations of the weakness planes. In this context, the WPM predicts some anomalous low mud pressures in a wide range of inclinations of the weak planes. The change in the frictional component of strength decreases with an increase in the pore fluid pressure for both criteria. The mud pressure predicted by the WPM resulted in being more sensitive to the change in frictional strength. The change in trend of the two criteria with change in input data suggests caution in the "a priori" selection of the strength criterion. A simple solution is proposed to predict a safe and reliable mud pressure with a small number of lab tests. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since the exploration of the characteristics of dredged mud slurry during batch settlement and low-pressure consolidation (less than 100 kPa) is still insufficient, the determination of the optimal time to start the vacuum preloading method (VPM) on dredged-fill foundations is still empirically oriented (due to a lack of enough scientific basis). To further explore the characteristics of dredged mud slurry during batch settlement and low-pressure consolidation, samples from typical dredged-fill land projects were obtained and used to conduct batch sedimentation model experiments and low-pressure (less than 100 kPa) consolidation tests. The results of experiments and analyses showed the following: (1) the clay (d < 0.005 mm) content is a main factor affecting the batch settlement and consolidation characteristics of dredged mud slurry, which is not conducive to the consolidation effect of dredged-fill foundations. (2) For dredged mud slurry whose clay content is within 40% to 60%, the cumulative change rate of the average porosity ratio of 60% to 75% is suitable for evaluating the steady state of its batch sedimentation process, i.e., the optimal starting time of VPM. Finally, based on the experimental analyses, a settlement prediction method that considers both the batch sedimentation and the low-pressure consolidation processes was developed and validated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A red mud suspension of ~700,000 m3 was accidentally released from the alumina plant in Ajka, Hungary, on the 4th of October 2010, flooding several buildings in the nearby towns. As there is no information in the literature on the effects of red mud on indoor mold growth, we conducted studies to answer the following question: does the heavy metal content of red mud inhibit fungal colonization in flooded houses? In order to gain knowledge on fungal spectra colonizing surfaces soaked with red mud and on the ability of fungi to grow on them, swabs, tape lifts, and air samples were collected from three case study buildings. A total of 43 fungal taxa were detected. The dominant species were Penicillium spp. on plaster/brick walls, but Aspergillus series Versicolores, Cladosporium, Acremonium, and Scopulariopsis spp. were also present. The level of airborne penicillia was high in all indoor samples. Selected fungal strains were subcultured on 2% MEA with 10−1 and 10−4 dilutions of red mud. The growth rate of most of the strains was not significantly reduced by red mud on the artificial media. The consequences of similar industrial flooding on indoor molds are also discussed in this paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Drilling mud is a major concerning element due to its high operational and economic impact on the drilling process. Various additives are introduced to enhance the efficiency of drilling fluid, but none of them could perfectly achieve their proposed efficacy in drilling operations. Researchers conceived several nanoparticles (NPs) in drilling fluid to dissolve this issue. In a singular instance, commercial tin oxide (SnO2) nanoparticles were utilized to analyze the influence of NPs on the rheological and filtration properties of inorganic KCl salt-based drilling fluid. However, the effect of SnO2 NPs on mud lubricity characteristics is not studied previously. However, due to the hazardous behavior of KCl, its use is very limited. Thus, we consider a KCl-free bentonite water-based mud to avoid any environmental damages from drilling operations. We also use SnO2 NPs that is synthesized in our laboratory by co-precipitation method. In addition to rheological and filtration properties, we also investigate the effect of NPs on mud's lubricity that was not considered in the previous study. Drilling fluid properties are measured at five different NPs concentrations of 0.10, 0.25, 0.50, 0.75 & 1.0 wt%, and at six different temperatures of 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, and 80 °C, while filtration properties are measured using API low-pressure low temperature (LPLT) condition. The addition of 0.1 wt% SnO2 NPs increases plastic viscosity, yield point, 10 s gel strength, and 10 min gel strength by 10%, 63%, 20%, and 14%, respectively. The maximum reduction in lubricity coefficient is found to be 14% at NPs concentration of 1.0 wt%. The NPs concentration of 0.5 wt% yielded a reduction in fluid loss and mud cake thickness by 8.1% and 34%, respectively. The study suggests that SnO2 NPs can be employed as an additive to improve the rheology, lubricity, and filtration properties of KCl-free bentonite water-based drilling mud.

This study presents in-situ observations of fluid mud in the Yangtze Estuary via a bottom tripod. Six occurrences of periodic fluid muds (F1-F6) were observed at high slack water, with suspended sediment concentration (SSC) exceeding 10 kg/m³. The thickness of the fluid mud varied across the six occurrences, reaching a maximum of 0.32m. Notably, temperature and salinity anomalies were observed within the fluid mud. The formation of fluid mud was found to be influenced by turbulence, with turbulence kinetic energy (TKE) below 5×10-4 m²/s² favoring settling as the primary cause of formation. The critical shear stress (τcw) for fluid mud formation was estimated to be approximately 0.09 Pa. The formation of fluid muds during early tidal cycles was attributed to liquefaction and bed erosion resulting from strong waves. However, in most cases, the wave energy was insufficient for erosion, suggesting that advection played a role in sediment supply during the subsequent tide cycles. The increased cross-channel current velocity during flood facilitated the lateral transport of a significant amount of eroded sediment from shallow water into the channel. Due to its short duration, the fluid mud layer was entrained by the current before consolidation. Enhanced turbulence led to the breakdown of fluid mud at the early ebb. The critical τcw for fluid mud breakdown depended on the density and duration of the fluid mud, with a maximum value of up to 0.70 Pa. The absence of the fluid mud layer during low slack water and neap tide was associated with a reduction in advection and tidal pumping, disrupting the original sediment balance between supply and demand. These data provide valuable insights into the formation and breakdown of fluid mud, contributing to estuarine hydrodynamic modeling studies and enhancing the understanding of estuary dynamics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Massive landfilling of red mud (alumina residue, RM) has posed a great challenge to the sustainable development of the alumina industry. To consume such vast industrial wastes, it is of great benefits to promote reuse of RM in land reclamation to replace partial traditional cementitious materials. This study investigates the potential use of the RM in stabilizing marine dredged clay (MDC) with a low dosage of cement, where sodium silicate is used as an alkali-activator. A series of laboratory tests are performed to characterize positive role of alkali-activated RM in improving mechanical and microstructural properties of cement-treated MDC. The variation of strength, permeability and micro characteristics are examined with different RM contents, sodium silicate contents and curing time. The results indicate an optimal content of sodium silicate regardless of curing time, which grows from 10% to 20% when RM content increases from 5% to 15%. Both hydration and polymerization reactions occur in the mixture of MDC, cement and alkali-activated RM, generating products including hydration gels (C–S–H and N–A–S–H) and geopolymer (analcime, faujasite and unnamed zelites). With optimal content of alkali, the stacked structure combining quadrate crystal clusters and gels can be observed, which contributes to significant strength improvement of stabilized MDC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The utilisation of seawater (SW) for making concrete appears to be a reasonable alternative to conserve freshwater. This paper investigates the possibility of making seawater mixed concrete (SMC) using cementitious replacement of fly ash (FA) and red mud (RM) to offset the adverse effects of SW in concrete. FA was added by replacing from 10% to 40% by weight of cement and RM from 5% to 20% and compressive strength, split tensile strength and electrochemical properties of concrete were evaluated for different mixes for 7, 28 and 90 days of testing. Analysis of variance method was used to identify the influences of FA, RM and concrete testing age on the SMC properties. The best mix was then finalised using the response surface method (RSM). It was observed that RM and especially FA were very effective in improving SW concrete properties, that is, increasing mechanical strength and controlling corrosion of steel in concrete. The results showed that to successfully utilise SW for making concrete, the best results at the testing age of 90 days were obtained on replacing cement with approximately 40% FA. The novel mix showed approximately 23% increase in compressive strength and 12% increase in tensile strength compared to SWM concrete. In addition, the novel mix electrical resistivity is around 60 kΩcm showing it to be in low corrosion zone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A manganese dioxide-modified red mud (Mn-RM) was developed as an adsorbent for the effective removal of lead ions (Pb2+) from wastewater. Various methods were used to characterize the prepared Mn-RM, analyze its adsorption performance, and evaluate the associated environmental risks post-adsorption. The results revealed that Mn-RM has a large surface area (38.91 m2/g) and a developed porous structure (0.02 cm3/g). The adsorption process exhibited good agreement with the Langmuir isotherm and pseudo-second-order kinetic models, showcasing a theoretical maximum saturation adsorption capacity of 721.35 mg/g. The adsorption mechanism primarily involves electrostatic attraction, ion exchange, and chemical precipitation. The optimal treatment conditions were determined by utilizing a response surface model, resulting in a maximum Pb2+ removal efficiency of 87.45% at pH 5.21, a dosage of 0.83 g/L, and an initial concentration of 301.04 mg/L. The risk assessment code (RAC) for each heavy metal in Mn-RM was less than 1%, indicating low environmental risk. Furthermore, the synthetic toxicity index (STI) values showed a significant decrease post-treatment. This study introduces the concept of "controlling waste with waste", offering a cost-effective approach to both utilizing red mud and removing aqueous Pb2+ while ensuring environmental safety and minimal ecological impact. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During the consolidation period of vacuum preloading drainage of dredged mud slurry, the clogging behaviors of the filter drainage structural layers and the core boards of prefabricated vertical drains (PVD) determine the drainage capacities of PVD. However, currently, there is a lack of comprehensive research on the evaluation criteria for these two clogging behaviors. Therefore, based on typical dredged mud slurry, typical geomembranes, and raw material core boards with different bending forms, relevant macro and micro-scale experimental studies have been carried out in this study. The research results show that (1) with the application of the gradient ratio test method, the clogging behaviors of filter membranes of PVD under graded vacuum preloading can be effectively simulated. Also, in the design of graded vacuum preloading, characteristics of equivalent pore sizes and pore structures should be emphasized to investigate the suitability of filtration and drainage performance of PVD filter membranes. (2) The compressive yield strength of core board grooves is a key factor influencing the reduction rate of flow capacity. The reduction rate of flow capacity and well resistance increment can be used as comprehensive indicators reflecting the clogging behaviors of core boards, while the bending angles and bending rates of core boards can be used as specific technical indicators. (3) The proposed clogging evaluation criteria for PVD are as follows: a filter membrane gradient ratio (GR) > 4.0, a core board bending rate >60% and a core board bending angle < 45°, or a reduction rate of flow capacity of bending drainage board > 90% or well-resistance increment > 9. Also, these criteria can be incorporated into the control indicators for drainage performance of PVD used in such types of foundations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mud volcanoes (MVs) are surface structures typically created by episodic discharge of fluids and solids, often associated to onshore and offshore accretionary prisms on convergent plate boundaries. Detailed investigations of ongoing activity and its associated morphological changes, as well as a better understanding of the temporal evolution of these highly dynamic systems, may improve the estimations of material fluxes from MVs drastically. Until today, approximately 70 individual MVs were discovered in the northern Ionian Sea in the Calabrian Arc (Central Mediterranean Sea), but only a few have been analyzed and described in detail. In this study, new evidence for recent recurring eruptive activity of the ~45 m-high and 1 km-wide Sartori MV situated in the clastic wedge of the Calabrian Arc is presented. High-resolution seafloor mapping as well as sediment temperature, geochemical, and sedimentological data received from two research cruises in 2016 and 2020 are used. Bathymetric and seafloor backscatter data (1 m scale) indicate the presence of two active eruption centers at the flat-topped Sartori MV. Elevated sediment temperature gradients at both eruption centers show that currently heat is transferred to the surface sediments. Pore water analyses indicate that fluids rising below the eruption centers are CH4-rich, Cl--poor, and SO42--free. Stable C and H isotopic compositions of methane suggest that it originates from a mix of primary microbial, secondary microbial, and/or thermogenic sources. A relatively shallow position of the sulfate-methane interface at both eruption centers also indicates the presence of upward fluid migration in recent times. Pore water modeling suggests that seawater has penetrated the surface sediments to a greater extent within the last few years. In contrast, centimeter-thick layers of hemipelagic sediments overlying mud breccia in sediment cores taken from both eruption centers show that no solid material has been ejected in recent times. Sediment core analyses combined with high-resolution seafloor mapping show an absence of rim-passing mudflows over the past ~10 ka. It is concluded that Sartori MV is an episodically active MV from which fluids with a comparatively low flux were released into the bottom water in recent times. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Efficient protocols have been developed for epoxidation of chalcones and hydration of nitriles to amides using "water extract of red mud (WERM)/H2O2" system at room temperature. As red mud is produced abundantly as wastes in aluminum industries, this present simple and cost-effective method is an alternative way of waste management which demands eco-friendly, greener and sustainable development. It has also been noticed that high yields of epoxides and amides could be obtained without any chromatographic separation. Further important characteristics of this protocol are its clean reaction profile, applicability for large-scale synthesis and high functional group tolerance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In early embryos of the caenogastropod snail Ilyanassa obsoleta, cytoplasmic segregation of a polar lobe is required for establishment of the D quadrant founder cell, empowering its great-granddaughter macromere 3D to act as a single-celled organizer that induces ectodermal pattern along the secondary body axis of the embryo. We present evidence that polar lobe inheritance is not sufficient to specify 3D potential, but rather makes the D macromere lineage responsive to some intercellular signal(s) required for normal expression of 3D-specific phenotypes. Experimental removal of multiple micromeres resulted in loss of organizer-linked MAPK activation, complete and specific defects of organizer-dependent larval organs, and progressive cell cycle retardation, leading to equalization of the normally accelerated division schedule of 3D (relative to the third-order macromeres of the A, B and C quadrants). Ablation of the second-quartet micromere 2d greatly potentiated the effects of first micromere quartet ablation. Our findings link organizer activation in I. obsoleta to the putative ancestral spiralian mechanism in which a signal from micromeres leads to specification of 3D among four initially equivalent macromeres. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Memory-based storytelling may contribute to co-productive planning approaches based on endogenous epistemologies and ways of being. Specifically, ambivalent memory performances, emerging from the embodied and emplaced memory of the speaker, reveal contested community histories, serve as a source of critical learning, and foster diverse forms of claims-making. By drawing on the case of a stormwater development project in the informal settlement of Los Platanitos, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, this article considers the production of dissonant memory landscapes through ambivalent testimonies of community histories, illuminating the implications of such memory work for storytelling in community-based planning practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For signal transmission of mud pressure waves in logging-while-drilling systems, as more measurement parameters are adopted, the conventional signal transmission rate of approximately 1 bps cannot meet the requirements of parameter uploading. Transmission rates greater than 10 bps are widely used by current Chinese and international enterprises in their continuous wave transmission systems. Due to the increasing transmission rates, a conventional single-channel pressure sensor cannot effectively identify the key features of an original signal with a low signal-to-noise ratio at a high transmission rate. This issue results in a low success rate for pressure wave recognition and decoding. This paper addresses a method for the collection of pressure wave signals using multi-channel pressure sensors through the analysis of the signal transmission changes of mud pressure waves with well depths and echo interference caused by drilling rod reflection. In this research, numerical simulation and experimental verification were used to calculate the cross-correlations of the multi-channel signals to effectively remove interference noises such as reflective waves and improve the signal-to-noise ratio of the original signal. The results showed that this method could effectively improve the SNR after the wave filtering of the original pressure wave. The characteristics of the continuous mud pressure wave signals were analysed using a circulation test. A corresponding band-pass filter was designed to remove pump noises to restore the sinusoidal pressure wave signal required by the original transmission rules. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Surface tensiometry consented to characterize the surface free energy of geomaterials in an integrated and non-destructive way. A new surface tensiometry tool, based on the contact angle measurement of Polyperfluoromethylisopropyl Ether (TVS mud index?), has thus developed in the early 2000s. The TVS mud index? was for the first time employed from 2005 to 2010 for surface tensiometry characterization of peloids for pelotherapy from Abano Terme and Montegrotto Terme (Pa-dova, Italy). We aim to report the surface tensiometry application in the thermal field, and show the potentialities of TVS mud index as a marker for the non invasive quality control of the peloids and their maturation process. Methods The determination of the typical chemical-mineralogical characteristics of a Euganean Thermal Mud (ETM) and their surface tensiometry allowed us to demonstrate the link between the chemical data from X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analysis and they performed using a tensiometer to assess the quality of the peloid and its biological maturation process. Results The liquid test Polyperfluoromethylisopropyl Ether-based demonstrated the link between variations in volume elements and surface free energy of muddy matrices. The research results here showed that the TVS mud index? is linked to the chemical pattern of peloids. Conclusions The research work implemented in the period 2005-2010 showed the potentialities of surface tensiometry in the assessment of peloids for pelotherapy using Polyperfluoromethylisopropyl Ether as a liquid test. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cathodic reduction is a green and promising remediation strategy for reducing the antibacterial activity of antibiotic contaminants and increasing their biodegradability. However, the lack of cost-effective electrocatalysts has restricted its application. In this study, we upcycled textile white mud by separating 1,4-dicarboxybenzene (BDC) and fabricating MIL-125(Ti)-derived amorphous TiO2@C (TiO2@C-W) as a functional electrocatalyst. The separated BDC from white mud shows lower crystallinity than BDC chemicals, but the resulting TiO2@C-W features a much higher degree of oxygen vacancies and a 25-fold higher specific surface area than that of TiO2@C derived from BDC chemicals. With florfenicol (FLO) as a probe, TiO2@C-W exhibits similar cathodic reductive activity (0.017 min−1) as commercial Pd(3 wt.%)/C (0.018 min−1) does, which was 1.4 and 3.7 times higher than that of oxygen vacancy-engineered TiO2 and TiO2@C, respectively. The as-fabricated TiO2@C-W could not easily remove FLO via the oxygen reduction reaction-based pathway with the applied bias for cathodic reduction. Though the activity of TiO2@C-W undergoes a slight decline with continuous running, more than 80% of 20 mg L−1 FLO can still be reduced in the eighth run. Water chemistry studies suggest that a lower initial solution pH boosts the cathodic reduction process, while common co-existing anions such as Cl−, NO3−, HCO3−, and SO32− show a limited negative impact. Finally, TiO2@C-W shows reductive activity against several representative antibiotics, including nitrofurazone, metronidazole, and levofloxacin, clarifying its potential scope of application for antibiotics (e.g., molecules with structures like furan rings, nitro groups, and halogens). This study couples the upcycling of textile white mud with the remediation of antibiotics by developing functional electrocatalysts, and offers new insights for converting wastes from the printing and dyeing industry into value-added products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]