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The discovery of metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) with novel structures provides significant opportunities for developing porous solids with new properties and enriching the structural diversity of functional materials for various applications. The rational design of building units with specific geometric conformations is essential to direct the construction of MOFs with unique properties. Herein, we leverage a ligand desymmetrization approach to construct a series of new MOFs. A flexible tetratopic carboxylate ligand with a tetrahedral geometry was designed and assembled with a Zr6 cluster, generating four Zr‐based MOF structures: NU‐2600, NU‐2700, NU‐2800, and NU‐1802, in which the ligand configurations and Zr6 cluster connectivities can be controlled by varying solvents and modulators during synthesis. Except for NU‐1802, these represent entirely new topologies. Notably, NU‐1802 exhibits structural flexibility, with up to a 74 % reduction in the unit cell volume as confirmed by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction studies. Given their microporous structures, we studied the adsorption behaviors of n‐hexane and 2‐chloroethyl ethyl sulfide to explore the structure–property relationships of these MOFs. Overall, this work highlights ligand desymmetrization as a powerful method to enrich MOF structural diversity and access complex MOFs with non‐default topologies suitable for applications such as toxic gas capture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During the last century, benzene (C6H6) has been a highly studied substance, with some acute and chronic exposures leading directly to hematologic effects detected in humans. This work reports on preparing and examining biomass-derived activated carbons (HPACs) featuring high benzene adsorptive capacity. The fundamental goal of this paper is to propose a green approach for generating HPACs from Heracleum platytaenium Boiss. (Cow parsnip) as woody biomass using a low-cost approach. The characterization showed that chemical activation elicits more enhanced mesoporous structure, a higher degree of graphitization, and bulk porous structure with higher specific surface area and pore volume. To minimize the use of chemicals in the manufacture of high-performance HPACs, an essential pre-pyrolysis step was implemented prior to the chemical activation of biomass by NaOH. The samples were carbonized at different temperatures (500–900 °C) and named as HPAC500, HPAC600, HPAC700, HPAC800, and HPAC900. Considering micropore volume and total surface area, HPAC600 was superior, and maximum benzene adsorption capacities were: HPAC600 (127 mg/g) > HPAC700 (117 mg/g) > HPAC800 (101 mg/g) > HPAC500 (80 mg/g) > HPAC900 (59 mg/g) at selected conditions. Freundlich, Langmuir, and pseudo-first-order (PFO) and pseudo-second-order (PSO) models were used to mathematically describe HPAC600-vapor benzene sorption on HPAC600. The kinetic findings fitted PFO with optimal values of R2 = 0.999, and the isotherm model adsorption fitted Freundlich model (R2 = 1.000). The finding revealed that H. platytaenium is a useful material for producing adsorbents, and successful testing outcomes demonstrate that H. platytaenium products serve as a suitable benzene absorbent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

HERA's landmark Finkel–Johnson article uses lay elicitations about de-minimis and insignificant risk/cost to outline a new risk-assessment paradigm. This response outlines their paradigm's many strengths and raises three main questions and 10 subquestions (Q1–Q10) to help make their paradigm even better. These questions address context-dependent-risk probabilities; single-chemical exposure, joint-multichemical-action risks; and survey respondents' objective numeracy. The response shows chemical body burdens also demonstrate the need for a new paradigm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Contamination of harmful additives in fruits has become a concerning norm these days. Owing to the great popularity of fruits, dishonest vendors frequently use harmful chemicals to contaminate fruits to extend their shelf life, which is extremely dangerous for the general public's health. To mitigate this issue, machine-learning algorithms like Decision Tree Classifier, Naïve Bayes and a deep learning model named “DurbeenNet” are evaluated separately. Alongside, a computer vision-based detection method coupled with a hybrid model is proposed that combines deep learning and chemical sensor. Formaldehyde Detection Sensor is used in this experiment to take reading of the sensor data. Mango, Apple, Banana, and Malta are taken as sample fruits in this study. Sensor data for both fresh and chemical-mixed fruit is newly collected using Formaldehyde Detection Sensor. The above mentioned sensor data along with the previously captures images of both fresh and chemical-mixed state are being integrated to a hybrid model. Among two machine learning algorithms naïve bayes come up with 82 % accuracy. Using both sensor data and captured image data, the proposed model “SensorNet” provides highest accuracy of 97.03 % which is substantial than “DurbeenNet” model's accuracy. Through the utilization of these fruit samples, formaldehyde detection sensor provides instantaneous detection, identifying the specific toxic substances present in the contaminated fruits.

This article shows that the Syrian Arab Republic (SAR) was doomed for destruction by the «collective West» at least since 2002 within the framework of the process of fragmentation of the states of the Greater Middle East and bringing the Muslim Brotherhood to power in these countries. Later this process was called the Arab Spring. The analysis of the alleged «facts» of the use of chemical weapons by the Syrian Armed Forces made it possible to establish that they were nothing more than primitive artificial performances. No «chemical attack» in Syria, attributed to the Syrian army, pursued military objectives. The basic principles of the use of chemical weapons in combat were ignored. Not a single case of the use of factory­loaded chemical munitions has been recorded. Information attacks of the Western media and non­governmental organizations, as well as their claims about the «Asad's regime»'s «chemical war against its own people» were carried out to support the Syrian anti­governmental forces at the time of their offensive on the government­controlled territory, or when they were defeated by the Syrian army. Since 2013 the opposition has been practicing mass abductions and murders of children in order to obtain more convincing «pictures». But these crimes did not attract any attention of the Western governments or human rights organizations. The article also presents the evidence of systemic failures and shortcomings in the work of the OPCW ­ UN Joint Investigative Mechanism (JIM) and the OPCW Fact Finding Mission (FFM), formed to establish the facts surrounding allegations of the use of toxic chemicals for hostile purposes in Syria. Considering staged fake chemical attack in Syria within the context of modern geopolitics, we can assume that it is possible to talk about the new «crusade» on Russia and its allies, but with the use of weapons of mass destruction. After the retrospective analysis of the mechanisms of information warfare, we may also note the deep intellectual degradation of its organizers in comparison with the similar information operations of the 1990s. This circumstance poses a serious threat not only to Syria and Russia, but to other countries as well, because the organizers of these operations are unable to assess even the immediate impacts of their actions.

Titanium dioxide is a compound that is used in the food, cosmetic, and paint industries; however, it is still toxic to humans and the environment. This study determined the toxicities of titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2 NPs) in a Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans) model. The effects of commercially available (C-TiO2) and synthetically (S-TiO2) prepared TiO2 NP solutions on lethality, lifespan, growth, reproduction, locomotion, and gene expression were studied in C. elegans. Exposure to TiO2 NPs (0.0, 0.01, 0.1, 1.0, and 10 mg/L) did not result in any change to the survival rate or body length of the nematodes, regardless of the concentration. However, there was a decrease in the reproduction (brood size) and locomotion (body bending and head thrashing) of the nematodes as the TiO2 NP concentration increased. The longevity of the nematodes was shortened following TiO2 NP exposure. The gene expression of sod-1, sod-3, ctl-1, ctl-2, cyp35A2, mlt-1, and mlt-2 in the nematodes showed that there was an overexpression of all genes when the worms were exposed to 1 mg/L C-TiO2 or 10 mg/L S-TiO2. It was therefore concluded that compared with S-TiO2, C-TiO2 possibly causes more toxicity or genotoxicity in the C. elegans model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

First attempts to ban chemical weapons (CW) as a method of warfare have been made since the second half of the XIX century. At the beginning of the XX century, several legal documents – declarations, protocols and conventions, forbidding the use of poisons, poisonous weapons, poisonous and asphyxiating gases and means of their delivery, have been adopted at the international level. But all these documents, including the Hague Conventions of 1899 and 1907 and the 1925 Geneva Protocol, turned out to be useless and ineffective as a means of deterrence. They could prevent neither large-scale use of CW in World War I, nor their further development. Instead of the assistance to the prohibition of CW, in fact they assisted their legalization and further arms race. The article is dedicated to the history of first efforts to ban CW by international treaties. It describes in details the circumstances of the elaboration of these declarations, protocols and conventions in connection with other general security problems, their further adoption or breakdown. Special attention is paid to the attitude towards CW at the beginning of the XX century and their use as a means of pressure and propaganda.

Personal protective equipment (PPE) of skin, made of filtering materials is the most convenient equipment for work in the areas, contaminated with percutaneous toxic chemicals. These kinds of materials must contain activated charcoal on its surface, enough for safe exploitation of PPE. The main task of polymer component in composite filter protective material for PPE is to fix the activated charcoal on the material`s surface, to sorb toxic chemical and to transport it into sorbent`s macro- and mesopores. During the study on the penetrability of methyl salicylate – toxic chemical`s simulator – into such polymer materials, like polyurethane, polyvinyl chloride, polystyrene, styrenebutadiene-styrene polymer and polypropylene it was found out, that styrene-butadiene-styrene polymer possessed the highest sorptivity towards methyl salicylate. So there are good reasons to continue the studies on charcoal sorbent encapsulation in high-molecular compound during the development of filtering personal protective equipment of skin, with the use of styrene-butadienestyrene polymer as a matrix.

Malachite green (C52H54N4O12) is a synthetic dye that is used in textile industries as a colorant and in aquaculture sectors to contain microbial damage. Aquatic contamination of malachite green (MG) has been reported globally. Fish is the highest trophic organism among aquatic inhabitants, highly sensitive to waterborne contaminants (metals, coloring agents, etc.). Toxicity of waterborne chemicals on nontarget organisms can be determined by assessing biomarkers. Assessing blood parameters and tissue antioxidants (enzymatic and nonenzymatic) is useful to evaluate MG toxicity. To initiate the MG toxicity data for freshwater fish (Cyprinus carpio), the median lethal toxicity was primarily evaluated. Then, hematological, blood biochemical (glucose, protein, and cholesterol) and tissue biochemical (amino acids, lipids), and vital tissue (gills, liver, and kidney) antioxidant capacity (CAT, LPO, GST, GR, POxy, vitamin C, and GSH) of C. carpio were analyzed under acute (LC50–96 h) and sublethal (Treatment I—1/10th and Treatment II—1/5th LC50–96 h) exposure periods (28 days). Molecular docking for MG with hemoglobin was also obtained. Biomarkers examined were affected in the MG-treated groups with respect to the control group. Significant changes (p < 0.05) were observed in hematology (Hb, RBCs, and WBCs), glucose, proteins, lipids and tissue CAT, LPO, and GST activities under acute MG exposure. In sublethal treatment groups, biomarkers studied were significant (p < 0.05) throughout the study period. The potential for MG binding to hemoglobin was tested in this study. MG is potentially a multiorgan toxicant. Literally a chemical that is harmful to the aquatic environment if safety is concerned. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carrying out special treatment is one of the main measures to maintain the combat capability of troops in conditions of chemical and biological contamination or radiation contamination of the area. The purpose of the work was to assess the current state of the means of special processing of military equipment and to identify possible ways to improve their effectiveness. The existing means of special processing of military equipment basically meet the requirements, however, in modern conditions they have a number of shortcomings and need to be improved. Thus, aqueous solutions of degassing and disinfecting substances and organic formulations of special treatment are used with a relatively high consumption rate of up to 4,5 l/m2 and 0,6 l/m2 , respectively, while the treatment time for 1 m2 can be 1 minute, which is related as with the physicochemical properties of the solutions and formulations used, as well as with the features of the methods of their application. In addition, technical means of special processing are not intended for processing the internal volumes of military equipment, and preparatory measures require a set of tools. In the course of the analysis, it was found that a decrease in the consumption rate and an increase in the rate of special circulation can be achieved as a result of the use of foam concentrates that give a prolonging effect to aqueous solutions of chemically active substances. Increasing the automation and productivity of special processing of military equipment up to 30–40 units/h can be achieved as a result of the development of an in-line processing method. This method consists in applying degassing formulations to the treated surface in the form of an aerosoldroplet flow using centrifugal nozzles located on a semi-arched movable structure. At the same time, the increase in productivity is primarily achieved as a result of an increase in the simultaneously processed area of the object. Reducing the time for preliminary preparation of objects and increasing the completeness of measures for the special processing of military equipment can be achieved as a result of the development of a multi-stage method of degassing, disinfection and decontamination. The method consists in the successive application of high-pressure water jets and foam-forming or solvent formulations with a given treatment exposure time. In some cases, along with the treatment of external surfaces, it becomes necessary to carry out degassing and disinfection of the internal habitable compartments of military equipment. One of the possible directions for solving this problem is a qualitative expansion of the capabilities of technical means of special treatment as a result of the development of a method for using ultra-small volumes of special treatment formulations in the form of a highly dispersed aerosol. It is advisable to spray solutions of chemically active substances by hydraulic or pneumohydraulic methods, while maintaining the main indicators of the quality of the formulations. The use of the presented means and methods of special treatment will improve the efficiency of ongoing measures for degassing, disinfection and decontamination as a result of increasing productivity, reducing the consumption rate of solutions and formulations of special treatment, increasing process automation and reducing labor intensity.

Titanium dioxide is a compound that is used in the food, cosmetic, and paint industries; however, it is still toxic to humans and the environment. This study determined the toxicities of titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2 NPs) in a Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans) model. The effects of commercially available (C-TiO2) and synthetically (S-TiO2) prepared TiO2 NP solutions on lethality, lifespan, growth, reproduction, locomotion, and gene expression were studied in C. elegans. Exposure to TiO2 NPs (0.0, 0.01, 0.1, 1.0, and 10 mg/L) did not result in any change to the survival rate or body length of the nematodes, regardless of the concentration. However, there was a decrease in the reproduction (brood size) and locomotion (body bending and head thrashing) of the nematodes as the TiO2 NP concentration increased. The longevity of the nematodes was shortened following TiO2 NP exposure. The gene expression of sod-1, sod-3, ctl-1, ctl-2, cyp35A2, mlt-1, and mlt-2 in the nematodes showed that there was an overexpression of all genes when the worms were exposed to 1 mg/L C-TiO2 or 10 mg/L S-TiO2. It was therefore concluded that compared with S-TiO2, C-TiO2 possibly causes more toxicity or genotoxicity in the C. elegans model.

Ochratoxin A is a mycotoxin commonly found in cereals. In this study, a rapid and straightforward method was developed for measuring trace concentrations of ochratoxin A in brown rice; the method combines the fast toxin extraction (FaTEx) technique with high-performance liquid chromatography–fluorescence detection. The proposed method was validated and exhibited high performance and satisfactory accuracy (91.6%–99.2%), precision (relative standard deviation < 3%), linearity (R 2 > 0.9999), sensitivity (limit of quantification = 1.0 ng/g), and matrix effects (magnitude = −2%). The proposed method is simple, accurate, inexpensive, reliable, and environmental friendly and requires minimal sample preparation. It was successfully used to analyze brown rice samples from markets and rice shops in Taiwan. To our knowledge, no study has reported the use of FaTEx for the extraction of ochratoxin A from cereals. The proposed method overcomes the shortcomings of traditional column cleanup and satisfies current food safety and analysis demands. • Ochratoxin A extracted from brown rice with fast toxin extraction technique (FaTEx). • FaTEx–HPLC–fluorescence detection—a feasible combination—for measuring ochratoxin A. • The combination method helps detect trace ochratoxin A concentrations accurately. • The developed method for ochratoxin A measurement can ensure food safety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Objective: Hazardous materials (HAZMAT) incidents, including the deliberate release of toxic chemicals, can cause a significant drain on resources as well as heightened anxiety in the community. Recent high‐profile incidents, including the 2018 illegal waste storage fire in Victoria, Australia, have highlighted the complexity but also the value of multidisciplinary approaches to HAZMAT events. This brief report examines issues from a public health perspective and reflects on the experience of such events in South Australia. Methods: The type, location and time of HAZMAT incidents for the period 2001 to 2018 (inclusive) in South Australia were compiled and classified from a database of the state Technical Advice Coordinator. Results: The profile of HAZMAT events was diverse, including fires, spills, unknown chemicals, sabotage and suicides. Incidents frequently occurred around transportation corridors and storage facilities. Public health agency involvement was most evident for known or suspected biological agents (toxins) and chemical toxicants with persistent exposures. Conclusion and implications for public health: Public health agencies are likely to have a greater future role in HAZMAT management as the complexity of incidents increases (e.g. mass casualty events and events involving vulnerable subpopulations). There is a need for a national HAZMAT surveillance database to coordinate agency responses on a national level. A unified approach to risk communication for vulnerable communities is also critical.

Subject matter. Informatization of processes of counteraction to man-made emergencies. Goal. Improving the effectiveness of the process of information support for decision-making in overcoming the consequences of man-made emergencies, in terms of its intellectualization, by creating a concept of integration of various software tools within a single, homogeneous space of knowledge about strategic, tactical and operational actions in a wide range of accidents and disasters related to the operation of technical facilities. Tasks. Develop a formal statement of the problem of decision-making in an emergency situation and justify the methodology of its implementation based on the integration of knowledge tools with various analytical models that describe the processes of emergency. Consider the application of the proposed methodology on a scenario that reproduces the situation on the site after the leakage of a highly toxic substance. Methods. System analysis - in the development of a comprehensive process model for decision-making in an emergency; software engineering - when creating the architecture of an integrated intelligent decision support system in emergencies of man-made nature; physics of the processes of distribution of toxic chemicals in the atmosphere - in the development of a scenario of the situation at the site in an emergency situation at an industrial site. Results. The concept of creating an integrated intelligent decision support system for overcoming the consequences of man-made emergencies, in particular, the formal formulation of a typical problem of decision-making in emergencies is described, as well as the basic principles of its solution, and the formulation of the problem of modeling management processes associated with man-made emergencies is developed. Conclusions. The concept of creating an integrated information-analytical system to support decision-making in man-made emergencies is presented. Within the framework of this concept, formal models of decision-making in man-made emergencies and an approach to the integration of diverse software within a single, homogeneous knowledge space on comprehensive measures to overcome the consequences of emergencies related to accidents and disasters at technical facilities infrastructure. The scenario example of the organization of intellectual support of decisions at release into the atmosphere of a toxic chemical is considered.

The amphipod (Hyalella azteca) and zebrafish (Brachydanio rerio) embryos were used for toxicological sediment porewater testing. Porewaters from 35 sampling stations of eight streams in southern Taiwan were screened for toxic effects and their relationship with 6 metal and 16 polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). Concentration analysis results showed that the following PAHs, naphththalene, benzo(b)fluoranthene, dibenz(a,h)anthracene, acenaphthalene, and the heavy metal cadmium were not detected in 35 sampling stations. The highest detection rate of 94.1% was caused by the PAHs fluoranthene and pyrene. The highest detection rate of the metal zinc was 88.6% of 35 analyzed samples. The majority of samples (88%) were classified as level tier 1 according to USEPA national sediment inventory. This indicates the probability of adverse effects on aquatic life or human health. The results of a zebrafish embryo test showed that heart rate and survival were significantly reduced with all porewater samples. Therefore, fish exposed to contaminated river conditions may be affected in their cardiovascular functions. Looking at correlations between toxic effects of metals and PAHs, we found that phenanthrene, anthracene, pyrene, benzo(a)anthracene, chrysene, benzo(b)fluoranthene, and benzo(a)pyrene were low, while fluorene was highly correlated with toxic effects of metals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of airborne exposure on the eye surface is an area in need of exploration, particularly in light of the increasing number of incidents occurring in both civilian and military settings. In this study, in silico methods based on a platform comprising a portfolio of software applications and a technology ecosystem are used to test potential surface ocular toxicity in data presented from Iraqi burn pits and the East Palestine, Ohio, train derailment. The purpose of this analysis is to gain a better understanding of the long-term impact of such an exposure to the ocular surface and the manifestation of surface irritation, including dry eye disease. In silico methods were used to determine ocular irritation to chemical compounds. A list of such chemicals was introduced from a number of publicly available sources for burn pits and train derailment. The results demonstrated high ocular irritation scores for some chemicals present in these exposure events. Such an analysis is designed to provide guidance related to the needed ophthalmologic care and follow-up in individuals who have been in proximity to burn pits or the train derailment and those who will experience future toxic exposure.

Every pregnant woman in the United States is exposed to many and varied environmental chemicals. Rapidly accumulating scientific evidence documents that widespread exposure to environmental chemicals at levels that are encountered in daily life can impact reproductive and developmental health adversely. Preconception and prenatal exposure to environmental chemicals are of particular importance because they may have a profound and lasting impact on health across the life course. Thus, prevention of developmental exposures to environmental chemicals would benefit greatly from the active participation of reproductive health professionals in clinical and policy arenas.

Toxic chemicals used in product design and manufacturing are grave concerns due to their toxic impact on human health. Implementing sustainable material selection strategies on toxic chemicals can substantially improve the sustainability of products in both design and manufacturing processes. In this paper, a schematic method is presented for characterizing and benchmarking the human health impact of toxic chemicals, as a visual aid to facilitate decision-making in the material selection process for sustainable design and manufacturing. In this schematic method, the human health impact of a toxic chemical is characterized by two critical parameters: daily exposure risk R and environmental persistence T. The human health impact of a toxic chemical is represented by its position in the R−T two-dimensional plot, which enables the screening and benchmarking of toxic chemicals to be easily made through comparing their relative positions in the characterization plot. A case study is performed on six toxic chemicals commonly used as solvents for cleaning and degreasing in product development and manufacturing.

Insects have evolved various types of antipredator defenses. For example, many insects have evolved crypsis, and exhibit cryptic body colors and shapes for hiding from predators. Other insects produce toxins as a form of chemical defense against predators, and some toxic insects are aposematic, with conspicuous body colors for advertising their toxins. Insects can also develop hairs, spines or hard exoskeletons as morphological defenses to protect themselves from predation. In addition, insects can evolve behavioral defenses, in which insects exhibit autotomy or dropping, or feign death. This study investigated which predator types evoke these types of defenses, through a review of the effectiveness of antipredator defenses in insects against carnivorous animals that are commonly used as model predators in studies. These predators include other insects, spiders, fish, frogs, lizards, birds and mammals. The results provide the first step for clarifying the evolutionary drivers of antipredator defenses in insects. The following aspects should be considered for future studies: multiple predator species and sufficient replication, alternative prey and predator models, and tolerance to predators in insects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Toxic chemicals used in product design and manufacturing are grave concerns due to their significant impact on human health. Sustainable material selections are needed by industry to reduce the overall impact of toxic chemicals in both design and manufacturing. In this paper, we integrate the human health impact assessment into standard material selection process for developing a sustainable material selection metric for decision support in design and manufacturing. A schematic method is presented for characterizing and benchmarking the human health impact of toxic chemicals. A case study is performed on six toxic chemicals used as solvents in semiconductor manufacturing. Reliability of the schematic benchmarking results is checked and validated by comparing the results with that of conventional Human Toxicity Potential (HTP) method.

In the event of a toxic chemical release to the atmosphere, shelter-in-place (SIP) is an emergency response option available to protect public health. This paper is the last in a three-part series that examines the effectiveness of SIP at reducing adverse health effects in communities. We model a hypothetical chemical release in an urban area, and consider SIP effectiveness in protecting occupants of commercial buildings. Building air infiltration rates are predicted from empirical data using an existing model. We consider the distribution of building air infiltration rates both with mechanical ventilation systems turned off and with the systems operating. We also consider the effects of chemical sorption to indoor surfaces and nonlinear chemical dose-response relationships. We find that commercial buildings provide effective shelter when ventilation systems are off, but that any delay in turning off ventilation systems can greatly reduce SIP effectiveness. Using a two-zone model, we find that there can be substantial benefit by taking shelter in the inner parts of a building that do not experience direct air exchange with the outdoors. Air infiltration rates vary substantially among buildings and this variation is important in quantifying effectiveness for emergency response. Community-wide health metrics, introduced in the previous papers in this series, can be applied in pre-event planning and to guide real-time emergency response.

Nowadays, anthropogenic activities such as the utilization of water softeners and street deicers have misleadingly increased the concentration of chloride ions in water sources especially freshwater which leads to contaminated water. The increasing contamination in the natural world needs to enhance the effectiveness of persistent pollutant removal approaches for improved removal of specific heavy metals. Electrodeionization (EDI) has recently been demonstrated as a productive technique for eliminating toxic pollutants from contaminated streams. EDI functions indefinitely, eliminating any requirement for manual operating cycles or chemical reagents, thereby assuring an ongoing supply of high-purity water with zero by products. EDI is a sustainable method that utilizes electricity to eliminate the toxic ions from the water. This review aims at exploring the fundamental mechanism and principle of ion transport through the ion exchange membrane in an EDI system. In addition, chloride ion remediation using the EDI strategy has been reviewed in detail with reference to research work in the EDI systems. This comprehensive review examines the recent advances as well as the environmental and economic benefits of the EDI system in water purification. Finally, the synoptic review discusses the technical challenges and recommends future prospects to enhance the EDI system for treating contaminated water. Thus, EDI system has been effective in removing toxic ions from environment mitigating the hazardous effects. [Display omitted] • The electrodeionization technique for chloride removal has been reviewed. • Chloride toxicity in water and its impact on humans and environment were addressed. • Performance and mechanism of electrodialysis for chloride removal were discussed. • Economic and environmental benefits of electrodeionization were elucidated. • Recent advances with challenges and future prospects have been highlighted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The amphipod (Hyalella azteca) and zebrafish (Brachydanio rerio) embryos were used for toxicological sediment porewater testing. Porewaters from 35 sampling stations of eight streams in southern Taiwan were screened for toxic effects and their relationship with 6 metal and 16 polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). Concentration analysis results showed that the following PAHs, naphththalene, benzo(b)fluoranthene, dibenz(a,h)anthracene, acenaphthalene, and the heavy metal cadmium were not detected in 35 sampling stations. The highest detection rate of 94.1% was caused by the PAHs fluoranthene and pyrene. The highest detection rate of the metal zinc was 88.6% of 35 analyzed samples. The majority of samples (88%) were classified as level tier 1 according to USEPA national sediment inventory. This indicates the probability of adverse effects on aquatic life or human health. The results of a zebrafish embryo test showed that heart rate and survival were significantly reduced with all porewater samples. Therefore, fish exposed to contaminated river conditions may be affected in their cardiovascular functions. Looking at correlations between toxic effects of metals and PAHs, we found that phenanthrene, anthracene, pyrene, benzo(a)anthracene, chrysene, benzo(b)fluoranthene, and benzo(a)pyrene were low, while fluorene was highly correlated with toxic effects of metals.

Purpose. Development fast calculating model which takes into account the meteorological parameters and buildings which are situated near the source of toxic chemical emission. Methodology. The developed model is based on the equation for potential flow and equation of pollutant dispersion. Equation of potential flow is used to compute wind pattern among buildings. To solve equation for potential flow Samarskii implicit difference scheme is used. The implicit change – triangle difference scheme is used to solve equation of mass transfer. Numerical integration is carried out using the rectangular difference grid. Method of porosity technique («markers method») is used to create the form of comprehensive computational region. Emission of ammonia is modeled using Delta function for point source. Findings. Developed 2D numerical model belongs to the class of «diagnostic models». This model takes into account the main physical factors affecting the process of dispersion of pollutants in the atmosphere. The model takes into account the influence of buildings on pollutant dispersion. On the basis of the developed numerical models a computational experiment was carried out to estimate the level of toxic chemical pollution in the case of unplanned ammonia release at ammonia pump station. Originality. Developed numerical model allows to calculate the 2D wind pattern among buildings and pollutant dispersion in the case unplanned ammonia release. Model allows to perform fast calculations of the atmosphere pollution. Practical value. The model can be used when developing the PLAS (Emergency Response Plan).

An isoreticular series of zirconium-based benzenetricarboxlyates (MOF-808) were successfully synthesized using different lengths of linear mono-carboxylic acids (i.e., formate, propionate, and valerate) as a charge-balancing ligand, and then were applied for removal of nerve-agent simulants. Removal of dimethyl methylphosphonate (DMMP) as a nerve-agent simulant of the MOF-808 analogues was conducted in dry and humid air. Tests demonstrated that the adsorption capacity of DMMP was considerably enhanced with increase in the carbon chain length of the incorporated mono-carboxylic acids of the MOF-808 (formate < propionate < valerate). The physicochemical characteristics and sorption properties of the MOF-808 analogues were thoroughly investigated using in situ FT-IR analyses and various characterization techniques, including such as XRD, N 2 sorption, TGA, SEM, Elemental Analysis (EA), and hydrophobic index (HI) measurements. It is apparent that the predominant factor affecting the MOF-808 analogues for the removal of DMMP was the concentration of surface oxygenated species (μ 3 -OH, OH, or OH 2). These could act as active sites to adsorb DMMP via hydrogen bonding with the P O of a DMMP molecule and then decompose it by hydrolysis. These results demonstrate that simple modulation of the surface environments of Zr-based MOFs can be adapted to tune their intrinsic efficiency for removal of toxic chemicals. Image 1 • A MOF-808 series was synthesized with different lengths of mono-carboxylic acids. • Adsorption of DMMP was studied under humid conditions by dynamic sorption. • In situ IR analyses were conducted to confirm the active sorption site of DMMP. • Mechanisms for sorption of DMMP on the MOF-808 analogues were proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Herein, we describe an amperometric sensor for chloramphenicol (CAP) by using Eu 2 O 3 nanoparticles decorated reduced graphene oxide. A simple microwave-assisted synthetical route was employed to prepare Eu 2 O 3 NPs@RGO. it's structure and properties were characterized by x-ray diffraction pattern, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, Field emission scanning electron microscope, High resolution transmission electron microscope. The electrical conductivity and cyclic voltammetry studies indicated the Eu 2 O 3 NPs@RGO modified electrode exhibited the best performance electrocatalytic sensing of CAP. An amperometric CAP sensor was found to be good sensitive and reproducible which able to detect concentration as low as 1.32 nM. The fabricated sensor worked well even applied in honey and fresh milk samples with appreciable recovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cigarette butts (CBs) have serious harmful effects on the environment and living organisms despite their small size. This research aims to investigate the abundance, densities and pollution status of CBs in Cox's Bazar Sea beach. The survey was conducted between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. in February 2023, during the peak season of the year. A total of 13,988 CBs were collected, and the mean density was 0.388 m−2 and ranges from 0.195 m−2 – to 0.689 m−2. The mean CBPI value was 7.78, which showed the " high pollution " status. According to CBPI analysis, 25 %, 41.67 %, 16.67 %, and 16.67 % were " severe pollution ", " considerable pollution ", " high pollution ", and " pollution " status, respectively. From HII values, 91.67 % beach fell within the " Class III " category, indicating abundant toxic CBs in the study area. A total of 13 brands were identified, of which Derby (19.31 %), B&H (18.54 %), and Star (11.26 %) were more abundant brands. These findings from this study aim to increase awareness of the harmful effects of cigarette butts discarded intentionally or unintentionally by smokers. [Display omitted] • Cigarette butts (CBs) are toxic to life and the environment despite their small size. • A total of 13,988 CBs were collected, with a mean density of 0.388 m−2. • The mean value of CBPI was 7.78, which showed the "high pollution" status. • From HII values, 91.67 % of beaches are in 'Class III,' denoting harmful CB abundance. • Long-term surveillance and strong policies are required to address the issues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Electrochemical sensors are sensitive, low-cost, and allow point-of-care testing. • Gold nanoparticle, striking nanomaterial for electrochemical sensing. • Au NPs' biocompatibility and catalytic characteristics make them a driving factor for electrochemical sensing. • Nonenzymatic techniques, more striking than conventional and enzymatic detection. • Immunosensor and aptasensor, tremendous tools for biomolecules detection. Gold nanoparticles (Au NPs) are extensively used nanomaterials that have profound relation with diverse sensor development, catalysis and drug delivery due to their remarkable electrochemical properties. It plays its role as the main catalyst, catalyst support, signal amplifier and electrochemical probe during sensing. Here in this review, we have summarised the recently reported nonenzymatic gold nanoparticles-based electrochemical sensing of different chemical and biological molecules. Although there are numerous conventional methods for detecting these compounds, those detection methods are quite complex, costly, and time-consuming. Gold nanoparticles-based electrochemical sensors have emerged as committed alternatives that address these issues while providing a rapid and highly sensitive detection system. Additionally, enzyme-free sensors reduce the shortcomings of enzymatic sensors, accelerating the widespread use of electrochemical sensors. This review will provide information on the process of combining of Au NPs with other molecules during electrode fabrication and the role of Au NPs in chemical and biological molecule detection. The electrocatalytic mechanisms associated with detection are also discussed. Numerous tables summarise critical features, including electrode composition, detection limits (LOD), linear ranges, and real-time applications. The attached schematic tree diagram will give an idea of what other molecule groups can be combined with gold nanoparticles to fabricate the sensor. We hope that this in-depth assessment of gold nanoparticles-based electrochemical sensors will contribute to a better understanding of the role and behaviour of Au NPs in sensing systems and hence to future advanced research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]