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The application of deep learning methods in civil engineering has gained significant attention, but its usage in studying chloride penetration in concrete is still in its early stages. This research paper focuses on predicting and analyzing chloride profiles using deep learning methods based on measured data from concrete exposed for 600 days in a coastal environment. The study reveals that Bidirectional Long Short-Term Memory (Bi-LSTM) and Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) models exhibit rapid convergence during the training stage, but fail to achieve satisfactory accuracy when predicting chloride profiles. Additionally, the Gate Recurrent Unit (GRU) model proves to be more efficient than the Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) model, but its prediction accuracy falls short compared to LSTM for further predictions. However, by optimizing the LSTM model through parameters such as the dropout layer, hidden units, iteration times, and initial learning rate, significant improvements are achieved. The mean absolute error (MAE), determinable coefficient (R2), root mean square error (RMSE), and mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) values are reported as 0.0271, 0.9752, 0.0357, and 5.41%, respectively. Furthermore, the study successfully predicts desirable chloride profiles of concrete specimens at 720 days using the optimized LSTM model.

Study region: Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada. Study focus: Many lakes in the Halifax region are approaching or exceeding the chronic freshwater aquatic life guideline for chloride (Cl-), presumably due to the application of deicing salts. These exceedances represent an ecological risk that requires mitigation for lakes currently experiencing high Cl-, and preventative steps should be taken to protect lakes that will be impacted by future development. In this study we paired geospatial analysis with linear regression methods to identify key factors contributing to elevated Cl- in Halifax lakes, and applied a mass balance modeling approach to estimate annual Cl- loading rates for dominant land uses within the region. New hydrological insights for the region: - The watershed variables found to be most predictive of mean lake [Cl-] were the % urban coverage, road density, and stormwater pipe density in a watershed. - Annual Cl- loading rates for the four primary land use categories in the region were: rural 1–3 g/m2/yr, commercial 0–9 g/m2/yr, residential 97–162 g/m2/yr, and roads 804–964 g/m2/yr. - The mass balance model developed in this study could be used to predict Cl- loading associated with planned developments, and subsequent impacts on receiving lakes.

Integrating waste and industrial by-products into concrete is an alternative way to reduce global cement consumption, enhancing its eco-friendliness. In this context, residues with fly ash have been increasingly utilised. Considering the vulnerability of concrete with fly ash to carbonation and, at the same time, its high resistance to chlorides, it is important to investigate the behaviour of these concretes under their combined actions. For this purpose, an experimental investigation was conducted, studying mortar and concrete specimens with 40% replacement of cement with fly ash. These specimens were subjected to a combination of actions (Cl− and CO2) in two phases: initially through immersion and drying tests, and subsequently through a combination of accelerated tests. Concerning the chloride impact study, free and total chloride profiles were studied. Concerning the impact of carbonation, colourimetric and chemical tests were used. The results demonstrate a significant influence of combined action not only on chloride penetration in cement-based materials with fly ash but also on the development of a carbonation front. Exposure of cement-based materials with fly ash to environments with high Cl− and CO2 content sequentially may lead, on the one hand, to an increase in carbonation resistance. However, on the other hand, it may result in a substantial reduction in chloride penetration resistance.

Manufactured sand, known for its artificial production, eco-friendliness, cost-effectiveness, and sustainability, serves as an excellent alternative to natural sand. Stone powder content plays a crucial role in determining the performance of manufactured sand, significantly enhancing concrete compaction and its ability to withstand environmental degradation. This study aims to explore the feasibility of using environmentally and economically advantageous manufactured sand in the construction of subway tunnel segments in coastal areas. It investigates the impact of stone powder content on the corrosion resistance of concrete made with manufactured sand under the combined influence of chloride salts and stray currents. The analysis covers corrosion tendencies, the post-rusting performance of reinforcement bars, the resistance of concrete to chloride transport, and microstructure properties, which are assessed through electron microscope scanning and mercury compression testing. The findings indicate that the corrosion resistance of manufactured sand concrete generally surpasses that of river sand concrete. Furthermore, stone powder content within the 3–8% range leads to a denser concrete microstructure, reduced porosity, lower free-chloride ion levels, increased polarization resistance of post-corrosion reinforcements, lower corrosion current density, and reduced mass loss of reinforcing bars. This research provides valuable theoretical support for promoting the use of environmentally friendly manufactured sand concrete in subway construction projects.

High concentrations of sodium (Na+), chloride (Cl−), calcium (Ca2+), and sulphate (SO42−) are frequently found in saline soils. Crop plants cannot successfully develop and produce because salt stress impairs the uptake of Ca2+, potassium (K+), and water into plant cells. Different intracellular and extracellular ionic concentrations change with salinity, including those of Ca2+, K+, and protons. These cations serve as stress signaling molecules in addition to being essential for ionic homeostasis and nutrition. Maintaining an appropriate K+:Na+ ratio is one crucial plant mechanism for salt tolerance, which is a complicated trait. Another important mechanism is the ability for fast extrusion of Na+ from the cytosol. Ca2+ is established as a ubiquitous secondary messenger, which transmits various stress signals into metabolic alterations that cause adaptive responses. When plants are under stress, the cytosolic-free Ca2+ concentration can rise to 10 times or more from its resting level of 50–100 nanomolar. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are linked to the Ca2+ alterations and are produced by stress. Depending on the type, frequency, and intensity of the stress, the cytosolic Ca2+ signals oscillate, are transient, or persist for a longer period and exhibit specific “signatures”. Both the influx and efflux of Ca2+ affect the length and amplitude of the signal. According to several reports, under stress Ca2+ alterations can occur not only in the cytoplasm of the cell but also in the cell walls, nucleus, and other cell organelles and the Ca2+ waves propagate through the whole plant. Here, we will focus on how wheat and other important crops absorb Na+, K+, and Cl− when plants are under salt stress, as well as how Ca2+, K+, and pH cause intracellular signaling and homeostasis. Similar mechanisms in the model plant Arabidopsis will also be considered. Knowledge of these processes is important for understanding how plants react to salinity stress and for the development of tolerant crops.

Background: A multi-factorial illness, diabetes mellitus has a significant impact on many bodily functions. Due to the direct impact of hyperglycemia on these electrolytes in diabetic patients, electrolyte imbalance is a significant issue. Material and Methods: It was a prospective study carried out at the Rama Medical College Hospital and Research Centre in Mandhana, Kanpur, in the biochemistry department. In this study, 50 patients with known diabetes and 50 healthy controls were both participants. Patients with known cases of diabetes mellitus, ranging in age from 35 to 60, were included in this study. Results: With a p value of 0.01, the mean FBS level in type 2 diabetics (156.52 ± 29.26mg/dl) was substantially greater than that in healthy controls (92.21±14.65mg/dl). Similar to this, type 2 diabetics' serum potassium levels (4.27± 1.72mmol/L) were considerably higher than those of the healthy control group (4.08 ±1.25mmol/L) (p=0.01). Additionally, a p value of 0.05 was used to determine statistical significance for the mean difference in serum chloride levels between type 2 diabetic patients (108.73± 12.24) and healthy controls (105.54± 11.2). On the other hand, type 2 diabetics' mean blood sodium levels, which have a p value of 0.001, are considerably lower than healthy controls' (141.21 ±16.32mmol/L) (138.28 ±15.25mmol/L). Conclusion: The effects of diabetes mellitus on key cellular processes and events are quite diverse. Electrolyte imbalance is a serious issue for diabetes individuals because it affects how cells are distributed throughout cellular compartments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The hypothalamus contains a number of nuclei that subserve a variety of functions, including generation of circadian rhythms, regulation of hormone secretion and maintenance of homeostatic levels for a variety of physiological parameters. Within the hypothalamus, γ-amino-butyric acid (GABA) is one of the major neurotransmitters responsible for cellular communication. Although GABA most commonly serves as an inhibitory neurotransmitter, a growing body of evidence indicates that it can evoke post-synaptic excitation as a result of the active regulation of intracellular chloride concentration. In this review, we consider the evidence for this ionic plasticity of GABAergic synaptic transmission in five distinct cases in hypothalamic cell populations. We argue that this plasticity serves as part of the functional response to or is at least associated with dehydration, lactation, hypertension and stress. As such, GABA excitation should be considered as part of the core homeostatic mechanisms of the hypothalamus.

Reactive oxygen species such as H2O2 are believed to play a prominent role in the injury and loss of transport function that affect the intestinal epithelium in inflammatory conditions such as inflammatory bowel diseases. Defects in intestinal epithelial ion transport regulation contribute to dysbiosis and inflammatory phenotypes. We previously showed that H2O2 inhibits Ca2+-dependent Cl- secretion across intestinal epithelial cells (IECs) via a phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)- and extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK)-dependent mechanism that occurs, at least in part, through inhibition of the basolateral Na+-K+-2Cl- cotransporter NKCC1. NKCC1 governs Cl- entry into crypt IECs and thus plays a critical role in maintaining the driving force for Cl- secretion. Electrolyte transport consumes large amounts of cellular energy, and direct pharmacological activation of the cellular energy sensor AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) has been shown to inhibit a number of ion transport proteins. Here, we show that H2O2 activates AMPK in human IEC lines and ex vivo human colon. Moreover, we demonstrate that the inhibitory effect of H2O2 on Ca2+-dependent Cl- secretion and NKCC1 activity is AMPK-dependent. This inhibitory effect is associated with a physical interaction between AMPK and NKCC1, as well as increased phosphorylation (Thr212,217) of NKCC1, without causing NKCC1 internalization. These data identify a key role for AMPK-NKCC1 interaction as a point of convergence for suppression of colonic epithelial ion transport by inflammatory reactive oxygen species.NEW & NOTEWORTHY H2O2 inhibition of intestinal epithelial Ca2+-dependent Cl- secretion involves recruitment of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) downstream of ERK and phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase signaling pathways, physical interaction of AMPK with the Na+-K+-2Cl- cotransporter NKCC1, and AMPK-dependent suppression of NKCC1-mediated electrolyte influx without causing NKCC1 internalization. It is intriguing that, in human intestinal epithelial cell lines and human colon, H2O2 activation of AMPK increased phosphorylation of NKCC1 residues required for promoting, not inhibiting, NKCC1 activity. These data identify an elevated complexity of AMPK regulation of NKCC1 in the setting of an inflammatory stimulus.

Abstract In this study, a strong anionic resin was used to remove the chloride ion in the diethanolamine of sweetening unit of gas refinery. A laboratory pilot has been investigated as a resin-filled bed to evaluate the reaction temperature, chloride ion concentration, resin saturation, resin recovery rate, optimal reaction temperature, diethanolamine flow rate, hydrogen strength and resin performance in this work. The resin saturation time, capacity of resin, optimal reaction temperature and changes in chloride concentration of the output stream from resin were determined in this research. Finally, the optimal amount of water to regulate the pH of the resin and the optimal amount of 4% sodium hydroxide solution to recycle the resin were calculated. It was found that one liter of resin is able to absorb 20.77 g of chloride. The temperature of 50 °C was considered as the optimal temperature of ion exchange reaction by comparing the amount of caustic and water consumption for resin recovery and regulation of neutral acidity, respectively. In this study, the amount of 4 wt.% caustic and water at a temperature of 50 °C for recovery of 134 g of resin obtained was equal to 8.5 and 5 L, respectively.

Tanggulangin is one of the areas affected by the Lapindo mud, also one of the sub-districts in Sidoarjo with many working industries. Some research reported that there was a decrease in the quality of well water in Tanggulangin due to these things, as well as a lack of public awareness of the environmental issues. Thus, this study aims to assess the quality of well water in the village of Kedensari, Tanggulangin, Sidoarjo based on physico-chemical characteristics. In addition, using the general equation from the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency), this paper discusses the calculation of the risk analysis of chloride and sodium exposure to health in three scenarios, 1) an adult weighing 80 kg and consuming water for 20 years; 2) an adult weighing 60 kg and consuming water for 20 years; and 3) children weighing 20 kg and consuming water for 8 years. Based on the measurement results of several parameters, physically and chemically, as well as organoleptic observations, and compared with the health ministry regulations, the water in the area is safe for consumption. However, based on the results of calculations, exposure to chloride and sodium from the water poses a risk to health in the specified time with an RQ value of more than 1. The risk from exposure to chloride is greater than from sodium.

Abstract The contribution of the perpetuation of atrial fibrillation is caused by electrical remodeling in which calcium, sodium and potassium channels could refer to changes in the ion channel protein expression, development of fibrosis, gene transcription and ion channel redistribution. Calcium and magnesium could influence the risk of atrial fibrillation which is the leading cause of cardiac death, heart failure and ischemic stroke. The elevated serum concentration of calcium had a higher range of in-patient’s mortality, increased total cost of hospitalization and increased length of hospital stay as compared to those without hypercalcemia in atrial fibrillation patients. Moreover, chloride channels could affect homeostasis, atrial myocardial metabolism which may participate in the development of atrial fibrillation. Up to a 50% risk of incidence of AF are higher in which left ventricular hypertrophy, sudden cardiovascular death and overall mortality relate to a low serum magnesium level. Additionally, magnesium prevents the occurrence of AF after cardiac surgery, whereas greater levels of serum phosphorus in the large population-based study and the related calcium–phosphorus products were linked with a greater incidence of AF. Numerous clinical studies had shown the high preoperative risk of AF that is linked with lower serum potassium levels. The conventional risk factor of increased risk of new onset of AF events could independently link with high dietary sodium intake which enhances the fibrosis and inflammation in the atrium but the mechanism remains unknown. Many drugs were used to maintain the electrolyte imbalance in AF patients.

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

The crystal structure of the cluster complex salt, (C6H13N2)4[Nb6(NCS)6Cl12] or (H-DABCO)4[Nb6Cl12(NCS)6] (DABCO = triethylenediamine or 1,4-diazabicyclo[2.2.2]octane), comprises octahedral Nb6 cluster cores, which are μ2-coordinated by 12 chloride ligands (bridging the octahedral edges, inner ligand sphere). Furthermore, each Nb atom is N-bonded to a terminal thiocyanate ligand (outer ligand sphere). The discrete clusters carry a charge of −4, which is compensated by four monoprotonated DABCO molecules. These are arranged in rows, which are N—H...Cl and N—H...N hydrogen bonded to the anions and among each other.

Epilepsy is based on abnormal neuronal activities that have historically been suggested to arise from an excess of excitation and a defect of inhibition, or in other words from an excessive glutamatergic drive not balanced by GABAergic activity. More recent data however indicate that GABAergic signaling is not defective at focal seizure onset and may even be actively involved in seizure generation by providing excitatory inputs. Recordings of interneurons revealed that they are active at seizure initiation and that their selective and time-controlled activation using optogenetics triggers seizures in a more general context of increased excitability. Moreover, GABAergic signaling appears to be mandatory at seizure onset in many models. The main pro-ictogenic effect of GABAergic signaling is the depolarizing action of GABAA conductance which may occur when an excessive GABAergic activity causes Cl− accumulation in neurons. This process may combine with background dysregulation of Cl−, well described in epileptic tissues. Cl− equilibrium is maintained by (Na+)/K+/Cl− co-transporters, which can be defective and therefore favor the depolarizing effects of GABA. In addition, these co-transporters further contribute to this effect as they mediate K+ outflow together with Cl− extrusion, a process that is responsible for K+ accumulation in the extracellular space and subsequent increase of local excitability. The role of GABAergic signaling in focal seizure generation is obvious but its complex dynamics and balance between GABAA flux polarity and local excitability still remain to be established, especially in epileptic tissues where receptors and ion regulators are disrupted and in which GABAergic signaling rather plays a 2 faces Janus role.

The impact of chloride (Cl⁻) in heat-activated peroxydisulfate (PDS) and peroxymonosulfate (PMS) processes for benzotriazole (BTA) degradation was investigated. Results showed that 0.42 mM BTA could be degraded by PDS and PMS under 70 °C in presence and absence of Cl⁻. The PMS-mediated BTA degradation rate increased with increasing Cl⁻ concentration up to 1000 mg/L, while a further increase of Cl⁻ concentration decreased the BTA degradation rate. In contrast, Cl⁻ inhibited PDS-mediated BTA degradation at concentrations tested between 100 and 10,000 mg/L. Radical scavenging experiments indicated that BTA degradation was mainly driven by hydroxyl and sulfate radicals in PDS and PMS systems without Cl⁻. However, reactive chlorine species (RCS) significantly boosted the PMS system for BTA degradation in presence of Cl⁻. Variation in pH substantially influenced the PMS system, but not the PDS system, whether in presence and absence of Cl⁻. By LC-MS/MS analysis, forty-two transformation products (TPs) were identified resulting from BTA degradation. Based on the TPs, polymerization, hydroxylation, benzene ring-opening, and carboxylic acid formation were hypothesized to be the main degradation mechanisms in absence of Cl⁻, whereas chlorination, triazole ring-opening, and nitration were the additional degradation steps in presence of Cl⁻. These findings help understand the influence of Cl⁻ on BTA removal rate and degradation pathway in saline wastewater. Moreover, more chlorinated TPs were found in PMS/Cl⁻ system than in PDS/Cl⁻ system, which was also reflected in absorbable organic halides (AOX) and end-product toxicity analyses. The PMS/Cl⁻ process also produced other undesirable by-products, such as chlorates which were not detected in the PDS/Cl⁻ process. This shows that PDS and PMS-based advanced oxidation processes can notably differ in terms of toxic by-product formation. Thus, they need to be critically evaluated before applying for organic pollutant degradation under saline conditions.

IntroductionThis study compared the efficacy of three commercial oral rehydration solutions (ORS) for restoring fluid and electrolyte balance, after exercise-induced dehydration.MethodHealthy, active participants (N = 20; ♀ = 3; age ∼27 y, V˙O2peak ∼52 ml/kg/min) completed three randomised, counterbalanced trials whereby intermittent exercise in the heat (∼36°C, ∼50% humidity) induced ∼2.5% dehydration. Subsequently, participants rehydrated (125% fluid loss in four equal aliquots at 0, 1, 2, 3 h) with a glucose-based (G-ORS), sugar-free (Z-ORS) or amino acid-based sugar-free (AA-ORS) ORS of varying electrolyte composition. Urine output was measured hourly and capillary blood samples collected pre-exercise, 0, 2 and 5 h post-exercise. Sodium, potassium, and chloride concentrations in urine, sweat, and blood were determined.ResultsNet fluid balance peaked at 4 h and was greater in AA-ORS (141 ± 155 ml) and G-ORS (101 ± 195 ml) than Z-ORS (−47 ± 208 ml; P ≤ 0.010). Only AA-ORS achieved positive sodium and chloride balance post-exercise, which were greater for AA-ORS than G-ORS and Z-ORS (P ≤ 0.006), as well as for G-ORS than Z-ORS (P ≤ 0.007) from 1 to 5 h.Conclusionwhen provided in a volume equivalent to 125% of exercise-induced fluid loss, AA-ORS produced comparable/superior fluid balance and superior sodium/chloride balance responses to popular glucose-based and sugar-free ORS.

Reinforced concrete (RC) structures in harbors are designed for long life (50–70 years) and are subjected to chloride-induced corrosion. Diagnosis of these structures usually relies on inspections which consist of ponding salt in the concrete cover with semi-destructive testing (SDT). Uncertainties in inspection result in bad diagnosis, and consequently in bad decisions. This study aims at developing a methodology for quantifying the uncertainty of measurements taken on-site where the random properties of concrete play a role. This assessment was performed through multiple measurements by three operators from two laboratories on the same cores extracted from a 27-year-old existing bridge located in Ireland. A total of 566 measurements are available. The effect of the operator, laboratory, and protocols are highlighted and then modeled. It is shown that the error of assessment is a function of the chloride content and follows a student distribution. The standard deviation of this error reached approximately 15% of the chloride content. This error is further propagated through the Fick law parameters for measuring its effect on the diagnosis: a 17% change of the probability of corrosion initiation is shown. This is the first study of this type with in situ inspections and the work is partly transferable to other coastal or offshore structures.

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

Simple Summary: Sodium and chloride are essential electrolytes in the organism, mainly found in extracellular fluid, that play a critical role in maintaining osmotic pressure and acid-base balance of bodily fluids. However, excessive addition of sodium and chloride may cause many adverse effects, such as increasing water consumption and land salinization, and even threatening poultry health. This research explored the effects of different levels of sodium (0.10%, 0.15%, and 0.20%) and chloride (0.15%, 0.20%, and 0.25%) in diet on slaughter performance, intestinal development and tibia quality of 29–70-day-old geese. Our findings suggest a significant interaction between sodium and chloride on tibia quality; high sodium and chloride levels reduced the tibia's strength. In addition, reducing dietary sodium and chloride levels will not have adverse effects on geese. The nutritional requirements for geese have yet to be determined. Therefore, the experiment provides new insights into the formulation of the diets of geese, especially the requirement of macronutrients. This study evaluated the slaughter performance, digestive tract development and tibia mineralization effects of sodium (Na) and chloride (Cl) on geese. Four hundred and thirty-four male geese at 29 days were randomly assigned into nine groups with six replicates (eight in each). The experiment employed a 3 × 3 factorial design, with two instances each of three Na levels (0.10%, 0.15%, and 0.20%) and three Cl levels (0.15%, 0.20%, and 0.25%). All experimental birds were husbanded for 42 days. Dietary Na and Cl levels and their interactions (Na ×Cl) had no significant effect on the slaughter, breast, thigh, abdominal fat yield, and digestive tract index of geese (p > 0.05). However, dietary Na and Cl level significantly affected the crypt depth of the jejunum and tibial development. Variations in Na and Cl levels had a significant interaction on the crypt depth of jejunal (p < 0.05), 0.20% Na × 0.25% Cl had a minor crypt depth. Dietary variations in Na and Cl significantly affected the tibial strength, and there was a significant interaction between them (p < 0.05). When Na and Cl were at their maximum (0.20% Na and 0.25% Cl), the strength of the tibia was the lowest. In addition, a single factor (Na or Cl) had no effect (p > 0.05), but its interaction significantly affected the calcium (Ca) content of bone (p < 0.05). When the Na and Cl levels were 0.15% and 0.15%, respectively, the Ca content in bone was the highest. These results suggest that dietary Na and Cl had interactive effects on geese, especially in the development of the tibia. High dietary Na and Cl levels adversely influenced the tibia and intestinal crypt morphology. Therefore, we do not advocate supplementing too much Na or Cl in the diet. Combined with our previous results, for 29–70-day-old geese, it is recommended that dietary Na and Cl levels should be 0.10% and 0.15%, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Europe, design for the durability of new reinforced concrete structures is currently based on a prescriptive approach. The design, execution (construction) and planned maintenance of a concrete structure have to lead to the intended level of safety and serviceability throughout its entire service life. This requires numeric models based on a sound scientific background of mechanistic understanding as the basis for design and management tools and for the further development of standards and regulations. Designers must understand the basic deterioration mechanisms and the potential types and rates of damage development. For example, different types of corrosion cause very different damage developments, some of which reduce structural safety. We propose that the next generation of service life models should either explicitly include the propagation period or implicitly include it by selecting an accepted probability of depassivation that reflects the type of corrosion and its structural implications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fusion-bonded-epoxy (FBE)-coated steel rebars have been used in many concrete structures in anticipation of better corrosion resistance. However, due to premature corrosion observed, FBE-coated rebars are banned in many parts of the world. On the other hand, such rebars with damaged coating are still used widely in some other parts of the world. This paper discusses the thickness, continuity, flexibility, and chemical composition of coating. Also, the performance indicators such as electrical resistance, UV-resistance, moisture resistance, and chloride diffusion coefficient of coating, and the chloride threshold of FBE-coated rebars are discussed. Laboratory tests adopted techniques (EIS, LA-ICP-MS, and EDX) on samples of coating peeled-off from coated rebars and specimens of coated steel rebars embedded in cement mortar, indicate that more comprehensive and stringent specifications are required to promote the use of quality epoxy materials, FBE-coated steel rebars, and construction practices are recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Geopolymers (GP) are a class of X-ray amorphous, nanoporous, nanoparticulate materials that can be mixed, poured, and cured under ambient conditions. Typically, geopolymers are made using a Group 1 (G1) alkali activator such as sodium or potassium metasilicate and an aluminosilicate precursor. An analogous material to GPs is ordinary Portland cement because of the similarities in processing, however, the resulting microstructure is more similar to that of a glass. Geopolymers are more thermally stable than OPC and can therefore be used in a variety of thermal energy storage systems, as energy storage is an increasing global concern. In this study, potassium metakaolin-based geopolymer composites containing glass particles and alumina platelets were manufactured, heated in air, and exposed to molten sodium chloride or potassium chloride under an air atmosphere. Results showed the formation of an amorphous self-healing geopolymer composite (ASH-G) that could contain molten G1 chlorides for over 200 h without signs of macro or microscopic chemical degradation. The filling of cracks by glass particles in the composite after heating to 850 °C makes this material self-healing. It was found that the morphology of ASH-G composites was more affected by temperature and duration than contact with corrosive molten chlorides in air. Future works include investigating the effect of molten salt on mechanical properties during initial heating, after prolonged heating, and the material compatibility with other molten Group 1 chloride eutectics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this research work, two types of recycled aggregates were used: (1) the recycled concrete aggregate, RCA, obtained by crushing the parent concrete produced using limestone cement and (2) the recycled concrete aggregate RCA-FA produced by crushing parent concrete made with FA blended cement. After the carbonation treatment process, the carbonated RCA-C and RCA-FA-C recycled aggregates were produced. The recycled concrete mixtures were prepared using the four types of recycled aggregates (RCA, RCA-FA, RCA-C, and RCA-FA-C) in 50% (by volume) to replace natural coarse aggregates. The physical and mechanical properties and durability (sorptivity, chloride ion penetration, and carbonation resistance) were determined and analysed. The obtained results were also compared with those of conventional concrete (CC). It was concluded that the physical and mechanical properties of recycled concrete improved when RCA-C were employed in concrete production. In contrast, the recycled concrete produced with RCA-FA-C was found to have the worst property values. According to durability properties, the concrete made with RCA-C and RCA-FA aggregates achieved the highest chloride resistance, similar to CC concrete. Nevertheless, the concrete produced with uncarbonated RCA acquired carbonation resistance equivalent to CC concrete. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Archaeological objects based on copper alloys (such as bronze wares) usually suffer from "bronze disease" that results from the existence of CuCl on the surfaces. The surface-coating Cu2(OH)3Cl can release Cl− and lead to further corrosion during the storage procedure. The central aim of the work is the verity the effectiveness of low-temperature radio-frequency (RF) plasma for the removal of CuCl and Cu2(OH)3Cl from the bronze wares. In this work, CuCl and Cu2(OH)3Cl patina were synthesized on copper by a simple solution method. The chemical and aesthetic features before and after plasma treatment were characterized using optical microscopy (OM), SEM-EDS, XRD, and XPS. The results show that Ar-H2 plasma could reduce the CuCl to Cu efficiently, which achieves pleasing esthetics as well as removes the chlorine (Cl atomic ratio decrease from 46.0 to 3.6%). For Cu2(OH)3Cl, the air plasma treatment exhibit better performance compared to the Ar-H2 plasma treatment, judging from the aesthetic effect and the removal effect of chlorine (Cl atomic ratio decrease from 14.8 to 3.3%). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Clinical and experimental evidence shows lung fluid volume as a modulator of fetal lung growth with important value in treating fetal lung hypoplasia. Thus, understanding the mechanisms underlying these morphological dynamics has been the topic of multiple investigations with, however, limited results, partially due to the difficulty of capturing or recapitulating these movements in the lab. In this sense, this study aims to establish an ex vivo model allowing the study of lung fluid function in branching morphogenesis and identify the subsequent molecular/ cellular mechanisms. Methods: Ex vivo lung explant culture was selected as a model to study branching morphogenesis, and intraluminal injections were performed to change the composition of lung fluid. Distinct chloride (Cl−) concentrations (5.8, 29, 143, and 715 mM) or Cl− channels inhibitors [antracene-9-carboxylic acid (A9C), cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator inhibitor172 (CFTRinh), and calcium-dependent Cl− channel inhibitorA01 (CaCCinh)] were injected into lung lumen at two timepoints, day0 (D0) and D2. At D4, morphological and molecular analyses were performed in terms of branching morphogenesis, spatial distribution (immunofluorescence), and protein quantification (western blot) of mechanoreceptors (PIEZO1 and PIEZO2), neuroendocrine (bombesin, ghrelin, and PGP9.5) and smooth muscle [alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and myosin light chain 2 (MLC2)] markers. Results: For the first time, we described effective intraluminal injections at D0 and D2 and demonstrated intraluminal movements at D4 in ex vivo lung explant cultures. Through immunofluorescence assay in in vivo and ex vivo branching morphogenesis, we show that PGP9.5 colocalizes with PIEZO1 and PIEZO2 receptors. Fetal lung growth is increased at higher [Cl−], 715 mM Cl−, through the overexpression of PIEZO1, PIEZO2, ghrelin, bombesin, MLC2, and α-SMA. In contrast, intraluminal injection of CFTRinh or CaCCinh decreases fetal lung growth and the expression of PIEZO1, PIEZO2, ghrelin, bombesin, MLC2, and α-SMA. Finally, the inhibition of PIEZO1/PIEZO2 by GsMTx4 decreases branching morphogenesis and ghrelin, bombesin, MLC2, and α-SMA expression in an intraluminal injection-independent manner. Conclusions: Our results identify PIEZO1/PIEZO2 expressed in neuroendocrine cells as a regulator of fetal lung growth induced by lung fluid. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

Herein, the influence of the counter anion on the structural properties of hollow carbon spheres (HCS) support was investigated by varying the nickel metal precursor salts applied. TEM and SEM micrographs revealed the dimensional dependence of the HCS shell on the Ni precursor salt, as evidenced by thick (~42 nm) and thin (~23 nm) shells for the acetate and chloride-based salts, respectively. Importantly, the effect of the precursor salt on the textural properties of the HCS nanosupports (~565 m2/gNi(acet)) and ~607 m2/gNiCl), influenced the growth of the Ni nanoparticles, viz for the acetate-(ca 6.4 nm)- and chloride (ca 12 nm)-based salts, respectively. Further, XRD and PDF analysis showed the dependence of the reduction mechanism relating to nickel and the interaction of the nickel–carbon support on the type of counter anion used. Despite the well-known significance of the counter anion on the size and crystallinity of Ni nanoparticles, little is known about the influence of such counter anions on the physicochemical properties of the carbon support. Through this study, we highlight the importance of the choice of the Ni-salt on the size of Ni in Ni–carbon-based nanocatalysts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inclusions in mantle minerals and xenoliths from kimberlites worldwide derived from depths exceeding 100 km vary in composition from alkali-rich saline to carbonatitic. Despite the wide distribution of these melts and their geochemical importance as metasomatic agents that altered the mineralogy and geochemistry of mantle rocks, the P-T range of stability of these melts remains largely undefined. Here we report new experimental data on phase relations in the system KCl–CaCO3–MgCO3 at 3 GPa obtained using a multianvil press. We found that the KCl–CaCO3 and KCl–MgCO3 binaries have the eutectic type of T-X diagrams. The KCl-calcite eutectic is situated at K2# 56 and 1000 °C, while the KCl-magnesite eutectic is located at K2# 79 and 1100 °C, where K2# = 2KCl/(2KCl + CaCO3 + MgCO3) × 100 mol%. Just below solidus, the KCl–CaCO3–MgCO3 system is divided into two partial ternaries: KCl + magnesite + dolomite and KCl + calcite–dolomite solid solutions. Both ternaries start to melt near 1000 °C. The minimum on the liquidus/solidus surface corresponds to the KCl + Ca0.73Mg0.27CO3 dolomite eutectic situated at K2#/Ca# 39/73, where Ca# = 100∙Ca/(Ca + Mg) × 100 mol%. At bulk Ca# ≤ 68, the melting is controlled by a ternary peritectic: KCl + dolomite = magnesite + liquid with K2#/Ca# 40/68. Based on our present and previous data, the KCl + dolomite melting reaction, expected to control solidus of KCl-bearing carbonated eclogite, passes through 1000 °C at 3 GPa and 1200 °C at 6 GPa and crossovers a 43-mW/m2 geotherm at a depth of 120 km and 37-mW/m2 geotherm at a depth of 190 km. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The movement of ions in and out of neurons can exert significant effects on neighboring cells. Here we report several experimentally important consequences of activation of the optogenetic chloride pump, halorhodopsin. We recorded extracellular K1 concentration ([K+]extra) in neocortical brain slices prepared from young adult mice (both sexes) which express halorhodopsin in pyramidal cells. Strong halorhodopsin activation induced a pronounced drop in [K+]extra that persisted for the duration of illumination. Pharmacological blockade of K+ channels reduced the amplitude of this drop, indicating that it represents K+ redistribution into cells during the period of hyperpolarization. Halorhodopsin thus drives the inward movement of both Cl-directly, and K+ secondarily. When the illumination period ended, a rebound surge in extracellular [K+] developed over tens of seconds, partly reflecting the previous inward redistribution of K+, but additionally driven by clearance of Cl-coupled to K+ by the potassiumchloride cotransporter, KCC2. The drop in [K+]extra during light activation leads to a small (2-3 mV) hyperpolarization also of other cells that do not express halorhodopsin. Its activation therefore has both direct and indirect inhibitory effects. Finally, we show that persistent strong activation of halorhodopsin causes cortical spreading depolarizations (CSDs), both in vitro and in vivo. This novel means of triggering CSDs is unusual, in that the events can arise during the actual period of illumination, when neurons are being hyperpolarized and [K+]extra is low. We suggest that this fundamentally different experimental model of CSDs will open up new avenues of research to explain how they occur naturally. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electrolyte disorders are ubiquitous in the critically ill patient. Abnormalities may provide clues to the diagnosis, severity and even prognosis of illnesses. Abnormal serum electrolytes can be a marker of total body electrolyte deficit or excess, or movement between compartments. Despite the morbidity and mortality associated with electrolyte disorders in critically ill patients, the evidence to guide management is limited. This article provides a guide to the aetiology, clinical features and management of major electrolyte disorders in the patients in the intensive care unit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Studies on the association between solute, nutrition and fluid intakes and mortality and later kidney function in critically ill acute kidney injury (AKI) patients receiving continuous veno-venous hemodialysis (CVVHD) are scarce. Methods: Altogether, 471 consecutive critically ill AKI patients receiving CVVHD in the research intensive care unit (ICU) were recruited in this single-center, retrospective study. Results: The median age was 66 (58–74) years, and 138 (29.3%) were female. The 90-day and one-year mortalities were 221 (46.9%) and 251 (53.3%), respectively. After adjusting for age, sex, Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II (APACHE) score, coronary artery disease, immunosuppression, ICU care duration, mechanical ventilation requirement, vasopressor requirement and study time period, the cumulative daily intake of potassium, chloride, sodium, phosphate, calcium, glucose, lipids and water was associated with one-year mortality in separate multivariable cox proportional hazards models. In a sensitivity analysis excluding patients who died within the first three days of ICU care, the daily intake of chloride (hazard ratio (HR) 1.001, confidence interval (CI) 95% 1.000–1.003, p = 0.032), sodium (HR 1.001, CI 95% 1.000–1.002, p = 0.031) and calcium (HR 1.129, CI 95% 1.025–1.243, p = 0.014) remained independently associated with mortality within one-year in the respective, similarly adjusted multivariable cox analyses. The cumulative daily intake of chloride, sodium, calcium and water was independently associated with the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) at 90 days follow-up in separate substantially adjusted multivariable cox proportional hazards models. Conclusion: The cumulative daily intake of chloride, sodium and calcium is associated with mortality and daily chloride, sodium, calcium and water intake is associated with follow-up eGFR in critically ill patients with CVVHD-treated AKI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This experimental study reports the effect of internally admixed chloride salts and their associated cations on corrosion performance of sodium nitrite (NaNO2) and di-sodium hydrogen phosphate (Na2HPO4) in concrete. The performance of corrosion inhibitors in chloride contaminated concrete was monitored by conducting corrosion tests on reinforced cylindrical members at regular intervals up to 854 days. Chloride analysis and microstructure analysis were performed on powder concrete samples collected from adjacent to the rebar surface of cylindrical members. Results indicated that NaNO2 and Na2HPO4 increased the chloride binding of concrete thereby reducing the free chloride near rebar level. NaNO2 was more capable in protecting the steel passivity than Na2HPO4. In most of the cases, chloride salt plus Na2HPO4 showed more corrosion activity than that in the concrete with only chloride salt. Further, NaCl showed higher corrosion activity than MgCl2 and CaCl2. Between MgCl2 and CaCl2, initially MgCl2 exhibited higher corrosion activity than CaCl2. However, at later ages, CaCl2 showed more corrosion activity as compared to MgCl2. The ordinary Portland cement (OPC) mixes showed better performance against steel reinforcement corrosion than Portland pozzolana cement (PPC) mixes. The XRD and FESEM analyses confirmed the formation of more amount of calcium chloroaluminate in the concrete admixed with corrosion inhibitor plus chloride salt than that admixed with only chloride salt. The XRD analysis indicated more formation of calcium oxychloride in the concrete added with MgCl2 in comparison to CaCl2, whereas the formation of calcium chloroaluminate was higher in CaCl2 than MgCl2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The synthesis, structural, phonon, optical, and magnetic properties of two hybrid organic-inorganic chlorides with monoprotonated methylhydrazinium cations (CH3NH2NH2+, MHy+), [CH3NH2NH2]CdCl3 (MHyCdCl3), and [CH3NH2NH2]CuCl3 (MHyCuCl3), are reported. In contrast to previously reported MHyMIICl3 (MII = Mn2+, Ni2+, and Co2+) analogues, neither compound undergoes phase transitions. The MHyCuCl3 has a crystal structure familiar to previous crystals composed of edge-shared 1D chains of the [CuCl5N] octahedra. MHyCuCl3 crystallizes in monoclinic P21/c symmetry with MHy+ cations directly linked to the Cu2+ ions. The MHyCdCl3 analogue crystallizes in lower triclinic symmetry with zig-zag chains of the edge-shared [CdCl6] octahedra. The absence of phase transitions is investigated and discussed. It is connected with slightly stronger hydrogen bonding between cations and the copper–chloride chains in MHyCuCl3 due to the strong Jahn–Teller effect causing the octahedra to elongate, resulting in a better fit of cations in the accessible space between chains. The absence of structural transformation in MHyCdCl3 is due to intermolecular hydrogen bonding between two neighboring MHy+ cations, which has never been reported for MHy+-based hybrid halides. Optical investigations revealed that the bandgaps in Cu2+ and Cd2+ analogues are 2.62 and 5.57 eV, respectively. Magnetic tests indicated that MHyCuCl3 has smeared antiferromagnetic ordering at 4.8 K. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper aims to investigate the degradation of coating materials on concrete surfaces exposed to accelerated and natural ultraviolet (UV) rays under a chloride environment for two years. Two types of coating materials, epoxy (EP) and cementitious-based waterproof (CW) were studied. The surface of cement-only concrete was coated by the coating materials. The UV radiation sources for inducing degradation of the coating materials were natural sunlight and accelerated UV in the laboratory. The intensity of the accelerated UV was about 4–5 times higher than that of the sunlight. The wet/dry cycles (1 week per cycle with 3 days wet and 4 days dry) were applied to concrete specimens during the tests. The specimens were exposed to the chloride solution during the wetting period and UV radiation during the drying period. At the end of each specified cycle, visual inspection and measurement of chloride contents in the concrete specimens were conducted. From the experimental results, it was found that UV radiation significantly degraded the coating materials. The degradation of the surface coating materials depended on the intensity of the UV. The chloride penetration resistance of the coated concrete with EP was considerably higher than that coated with CW after 107 cycles of the wet-dry test (two years of exposure). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Excessive withdrawal of groundwater for agricultural irrigation can cause seawater intrusion into coastal aquifers. Such a case will in turn results in deterioration of irrigation water quality. Determination of irrigation water quality with traditional methods is a time-consuming and costly process. However, machine learning algorithms can be useful tools for modeling and estimating groundwater quality used for irrigation water purposes. In this study, TDS, PS, SAR, and Cl parameters of groundwater were estimated with models based on EC and pH variables. For this purpose, prediction performances of two different deep learning methods (convolutional neural network (CNN) and deep neural network (DNN)) and two different classical machine learning (Random Forest (RF) and extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost)) methods were compared. In addition, predictive uncertainty of the models was determined by quantile regression (QR) analysis. Performance criteria and results of uncertainty analysis revealed that CNN (in testing phase, NSE = 0.95 for TDS, NSE = 0.96 for PS, NSE = 0.67 for SAR and NSE = 0.93 for CI) and DNN (in testing phase, NSE = 0.91 for TDS, NSE = 0.91 for PS, NSE = 0.57 for SAR and NSE = 0.94 for Cl) models had quite a close performance in estimation of TDS, PS, SAR, and Cl parameters and higher than the other two classical machine learning methods. As a result, the CNN model can be considered the best performing model in estimating all quality parameters due to the highest NSE and lowest RMSE values. In addition, the Taylor diagram showed that the values estimated using the CNN model had the highest correlation with the measured data. It was determined that the model with the lowest uncertainty based on the PICP statistics was DNN, followed by the CNN model. However, the CNN model has predicted outliers more accurately. Present findings proved that deep learning models could offer efficient tools for predicting irrigation water quality parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the context of the durability assessment of reinforced concrete structures, it is necessary to establish the divisions of the aggressiveness classes of the different maritime and coastal environments, in order to contribute to the study of the classification of environmental aggressiveness. In this paper, the deposition of aggressive ions and the general climatic aspects of the coastal region of the city of Cabo Frio, RJ are evaluated. For the analysis, the wet candle method (Brazilian NBR 6211:2001) was adopted. The exhibitions were held at five different points throughout the city, each with three wet candles. To quantify the chloride content, the conductimetry method was used, which is done by measuring the electrical conductivity of an electrolyte solution, due to ion migration. The results point to a high level of chlorides in the initial range of distance from the sea and a considerable decrease from approximately 900 meters from the seashore. In this way, it was possible to verify that the city, in its interior, is under moderate to minimal aggressiveness. In the initial distances of the seashore, there is high aggressiveness. These results show the importance of considering micro-exposure environments during the design phase of reinforced concrete structures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• An assay for sweat chloride and bicarbonate determination was developed by capillary electrophoresis. • Good mutual agreement for sweat chloride was achieved as compared to coulometric titration for CF confirmatory testing. • Sweat bicarbonate did not have clinical diagnostic value to differentiate CF infants from unaffected carriers. • This method may reduce testing failure rates caused by insufficient sweat volume collected from infants. Objectives Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a debilitating genetic disorder that benefits from early detection. CF diagnosis relies on measuring elevated sweat chloride that is difficult in neonates with low sweat rates. We introduce a new method for sweat chloride determination from volume-limited specimens, and explore the potential utility of sweat bicarbonate in neonatal CF screening. Methods A rapid assay (< 5 min) was developed to analyze chloride and bicarbonate using capillary electrophoresis with indirect UV detection (CE-iUV). Pilocarpine-stimulated sweat samples from screen-positive CF infants were collected at two hospital sites, including confirmed CF (n = 12), CF screen-positive inconclusive diagnosis (n = 4), and unaffected non-CF cases (n = 37). All sweat chloride samples were analyzed by a coulometric titrator and CE-iUV, and the viability to measure acid-labile bicarbonate was also evaluated. Results Stability studies revealed that bicarbonate can be reliably assessed in sweat if acidification and heating were avoided. Method validation demonstrated that sweat chloride and bicarbonate were quantified with acceptable accuracy (recovery of 102%), precision (CV = 3.7%) and detection limits (∼ 0.1 mM). An inter-laboratory comparison confirmed a mean bias of 6.5% (n = 53) for sweat chloride determination by CE-iUV relative to a commercial chloridometer. However, sweat bicarbonate did not discriminate between CF and non-CF infants (AUC = 0.623, p = 0.215) unlike chloride (AUC = 1.00, p = 3.00 × 10−7). Conclusions CE-iUV offers a robust method for sweat chloride testing from presumptive CF infants that may reduce testing failure rates. However, sweat bicarbonate does not have clinical value in newborn CF diagnosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Investigations into seizure initiation, in recent years, have focused almost entirely upon alterations of interneuronal function, chloride homeostasis, and extracellular potassium levels. In contrast, little attention has been directed toward a possible role of dendritic plateau potentials in the actual ictogenic transition, despite a substantial literature dating back 40 years regarding its importance generally in epilepsy. Here, we argue that an increase in dendritic excitability, coordinated across the population of pyramidal cells, is a key stage in ictogenesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The utilization of sustainable cement replacement materials in concrete can control the emission of carbon dioxide and greenhouse gases in the construction industry, thus contributing significantly to the environment, society, and the global economy. Various types of sustainable concrete including geopolymer concrete are tested for their efficacy for construction in laboratories. However, the performance and longevity of sustainable concrete for civil engineering applications in corrosive environments are still debatable. This paper aims to investigate the performance of the reinforced geopolymer (GPC) and foam concretes (FC) against corrosive chloride exposure. Two long term key parameters, i.e., corrosion rate and mechanical performance of reinforcing steel in geopolymer and foam concrete were assessed to evaluate their performance against chloride attack. For experiments, reinforced GPC and FC specimens, each admixed with 3 and 5% chlorides, were kept at varying temperatures and humidity levels in the environmental chambers. The corrosion rates of the reinforced geopolymer and foam concrete specimens were also compared with control specimens after 803 days and the tensile strength of the corroded reinforcing steel was also determined. Moreover, the long term efficacy of repaired patches (810 days), in a chloride-rich surrounding environment utilizing FC and GPC, was investigated. The results suggested greater performance of FC compared to GPC under standard environmental conditions. However, the simulated patch repair with GPC showed better resistance against chloride attack compared to FC. The research also undertook the fractographical examination of the surfaces of the reinforcement exposed to 5% admixed chloride and develops models for the corrosion rates of foam concrete as a function of the corrosion rates of geopolymer concrete and chloride content. A correlation model for the corrosion rates of FC and GPC was also developed. The findings of the current research and the model developed are novel and contribute to the knowledge of long term degradation science of geopolymers and form concrete materials. Furthermore, the findings and methodology of the current research have practical significance in the construction and repair industry for determining the remaining service life for any reinforced and steel infrastructure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chloride ions are nowadays the main cause of the degradation of steel and reinforce concrete construction in the vicinity of the road. On the other hand, chloride ions, usually in the form of de-icing salts or brine, are very important for safe winter traffic on the roads. This creates a slightly schizophrenic situation where it is necessary to ensure safe traffic in the winter period and at the same time to affect the service life of the structure as little as possible. The effect of the roadway on chloride deposition is a long-studied, but still imprecisely understood, part of the effect of chloride ions on structures in the vicinity of the roadway. This paper discusses the experimental measurement of chloride deposition in the vicinity of the I/11 road in the Czech Republic by dry plate method, wet candle method and corrosion coupons. Statistical analysis of correlation and regression is performed on the results of measurements by wet candle and horizontal dry plate methods. The methods are interdependent. A detailed analysis of the surface and chemical properties of the corrosion products is performed on the corrosion coupons. Using the corrosion loss, the environmental category C2 is determined. Observation of the microclimate in the vicinity of the roads gives to engineers a basis for the correct design of structures around the roads. The conclusions of the experimental measurements are intended to help engineers to design a structure that is safe, serviceable and sufficiently resistant to chloride ions within its service life [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pitting susceptibility of metals in corrosive environment is usually measured using a three-electrode set-up to conduct accelerated corrosion tests. A widely accepted methodology consists in mounting a sample in epoxy resin and connect it with a copper wire. However, in chloride-rich environments, this often results in the occurrence of crevice corrosion instead of pitting. In this study, a new 3D-printed sample holder was designed and its efficiency to study pitting corrosion of metals validated. The new method enables to study of pitting corrosion by improving edge enclosure, thus avoiding crevice corrosion. The validation is based on two case studies where stainless steel samples are polarized in (i) 500-ppm Cl− at ambient temperature and (ii) saturated Ca(OH)2 with 1-M Cl− at 60 °C. The specifically chosen grade (AISI 316 L) shows failure of the electrode clearly initiated at the epoxy sample edge in traditional tests and poor reproducibility. Results showed that the use of the 3D-printed sample holder significantly improved the reliability and efficiency of the testing method, clearly avoiding unrealistic crevice corrosion in the tested conditions. The designed sample holder therefore enables more realistic and representative pitting results in corrosion research opening the possibility of conducting far less-expensive repetitive tests. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of the mobile interconversion of [RuHCl(CO)(mtppms-Na)3] 1, and [RuH(H2O)(CO)(mtppms-Na)3]+ 2, was studied in hydrogenation of phenylacetylene and cinnamaldehyde in aqueous–organic biphasic systems, as a function of the chloride concentration and the pH of the aqueous phase. Catalytic activity of the two complexes was also determined in homogeneous organic solvents without any additives. In the biphasic system, the rate of selective hydrogenation of phenylacetylene to styrene was strongly increased upon addition of NaCl, while the reaction of cinnamaldehyde slowed, with no change in product distribution. Both reactions responded with a rate decrease upon increasing the pH of the aqueous phase. It was concluded that hydrogenation of phenylacetylene was catalyzed by 1 with no chloride dissociation, while in the reduction of cinnamaldehyde, the aquo-complex 2 was the active catalytic species. Catalytic cycles were suggested to rationalize these findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the present study was to compare the effect of various salts composed of different cations (Na+, K+) and anions (chloride, nitrate, nitrite) on growth, development and ion accumulation in three Rumex species with accessions from sea coast habitats (Rumex hydrolapathum, Rumex longifolius and Rumex maritimus) and Rumex confertus from an inland habitat. Plants were cultivated in soil in an experimental automated greenhouse during the autumn–winter season. Nitrite salts strongly inhibited growth of all Rumex species, but R. maritimus was the least sensitive. Negative effects of chloride salts were rather little-pronounced, but nitrates resulted in significant growth stimulation, plant growth and development. Effects of Na+ and K+ at the morphological level were relatively similar, but treatment with K+ salts resulted in both higher tissue electrolyte levels and proportion of senescent leaves, especially for chloride salts. Increases in tissue water content in leaves were associated with anion type, and were most pronounced in nitrate-treated plants, resulting in dilution of electrolyte concentration. At the morphological level, salinity responses of R. confertus and R. hydrolapathum were similar, but at the developmental and physiological level, R. hydrolapathum and R. maritimus showed more similar salinity effects. In conclusion, the salinity tolerance of all coastal Rumex species was high, but the inland species R. confertus was the least tolerant to salinity. Similarity in effects between Na+ and K+ could be related to the fact that surplus Na+ and K+ has similar fate (including mechanisms of uptake, translocation and compartmentation) in relatively salt-tolerant species. However, differences between various anions are most likely related to differences in physiological functions and metabolic fate of particular ions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Corrosion of steel reinforcement due to chloride attack remains a major reinforced concrete durability concern. The problem is prevalent for concrete structures located within marine environments or frost-prone locations where chlorides containing de-icing salts are used. This paper is a state-of-the-art review into chloride binding in Portland cement concrete, with consideration of the differences induced by the presence of sulphates, such as found in seawater. The review also considers the use of supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs), the use of which has increased because of their potential to enhance durability and reduce the carbon footprint of concrete production. Such materials impact on phase assemblage and microstructure, affecting chloride binding and transport properties. Therefore, field and laboratory studies are critically reviewed to understand how these could help in the design of more durable concretes. The contributions of chloride binding, hydrate compositions and microstructures of the binding materials affecting chloride transport in concretes are also evaluated to suggest a more robust approach for controlling the problem of chloride attack. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Dyschloremia is one of the most prevalent abnormalities that is highly associated with a high level of mortality in intensive care unit (ICU) patients. The current study evaluated serum chloride levels in COVID-19 patients hospitalized in the ICU. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 245 patients with severe COVID-19 who were admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU). Electrolytes, albumin, liver function test, complete blood count, serum chloride, and VBG were among the laboratory markers compared. The Chi-square, t-test, and logistic regression models were used to examine the relationship between these markers and the key outcomes, which included severity, mortality, intubation, and hospitalization. Findings: The Mean±SD age of patients was 58.16±17 years. The mean serum chloride level in the studied patients was 109.6±5.1 with a range of 100-134. According to the regression logistic model, variables like age, intubation status, pH, and chlorine levels significantly affected the outcome of COVID-19 disease. Patients with acidosis were 4.7 times more likely to die than those with alkalosis (P<0.001). The chance of dying in hyperchloremia is 2.38 times more compared to the normochloremia group (P<0.009). Conclusion: Patients with severe COVID-19 may present with chlorine abnormalities, including hyperchloremia. Hyperchloremia is also associated with poor clinical outcomes and a higher mortality risk. This relationship was independent of acid-base disorder. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to find an effective, inexpensive, and safe washing treatment for municipal solid waste incineration bottom ash (MSWIBA) in order to reduce its potential harmful effects in disposal and recycling. The washing solutions, namely tap water (TW), saturated lime water (SLW), and wastewater from concrete batching plant (WW) were used to wash MSWIBA at different liquid–solid (L/S) ratios and for different durations. Leaching behavior of some heavy metals, chloride, and sulfate from MSWIBA was tested and evaluated. From the TCLP leaching test, when the L/S ratio was above 5, WW was the most effective solution in reducing As, Cd, Se, and Sb emissions from MSWIBA. The calcium and iron ions present in the WW were essential for controlling the leaching of As, Cd, and Sb from MSWIBA due to the formation of stable crystalline pharmacosiderite, cadmium hydroxide sulfate, and hydromeite during the washing process. Using WW showed the best effect in removing sulfate from MSWIBA. At a L/S ratio of 10, about 83% of the sulfate could be removed from MSWIBA after 20 min of washing. The L/S ratio was most influential in removing chloride from MSWIBA. The three washing treatments chosen were effective in reducing the chloride level in MSWIBA to below the level of hazardous waste. Nevertheless, there were still substantial amounts of chloride remaining in the treated MSWIBA. Under the Dutch Building Materials Decree, the treated MSWIBA may be used as a building material in parts which allow isolation, control, and monitoring (ICM). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The electrochemical tests commonly used for evaluating reinforcement corrosion in Portland cement-based concrete may not be appropriate for testing alkali-activated slag (AAS) concrete due to its different pore structure and pore solution composition. In this article, corrosion behaviour of the steel bars in 12 AAS concrete mixes with different alkali concentration and modulus of sodium silicate solution was monitored by using gravimetric mass loss measurement. The results obtained from other electrochemical tests were compared to the gravimetric mass loss to determine their suitability for assessing the corrosion of steel in AAS concrete. It was found that only 7.8–28% of the mass loss was accounted for by the macrocell current for AAS concretes, indicating that this type of test underestimates the corrosion of the steel in AAS concrete. The steel bars in the AAS concretes gave a much higher negative half-cell potential value, presumably due to the influence of sulfides. In summary, it has been established that the criteria for assessing the onset and progress of corrosion of steel in Portland cement concrete are not suitable for the same purpose in the range of AAS concretes studied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To cope with the premature deterioration of reinforced concrete structures caused by chloride-induced corrosion, the corrosion rate is required to be estimated and the transport parameters calculated. The electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) technique can evaluate steel corrosion behaviors at different frequencies. However, its capacity to interpret the impedance response of the system (steel embedded in concrete) is still challenged. Although concrete is a good barrier used to secure structural performance, one of the main obstacles associated with electrical measurements relates to the cases in which concrete contains unexpected or invisible variables, such as changes in pore structure induced by the continuous hydration process. In addition, the fact that steel embedded in concrete is controlled during experiments is technically challenging. Due to these limitations, various circuits have been proposed to explain the corrosion behavior of steel in concrete. EIS measurements are very sensitive to small perturbations. During the analysis process of EIS data, it is possible to introduce unexpected errors attributed to variables; thus, the estimated corrosion values based on the analysis rate may be misleading. To overcome the limitations, it is necessary to confirm the impedance responses first in controlled variable cases. In this study, EIS measurements were conducted for active/passive states of steel in concrete in various conditions to minimize variable errors which are likely induced by operators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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