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This paper presents a novel approach to establish water security through autonomous rainwater harvesting, storage, and distribution mechanisms. The primary focus of the research is on developing a reliable and cost-effective method for harvesting, storing, and distributing rainwater in an autonomous manner, whereby the system is self-regulating in terms of harvesting, storing, and distributing water in response to localized and customized needs or conditions, more especially to communities that are struggling to meet their minimal water demands. The paper aims to develop an integrated and automated system that is capable of collecting, storing, and distributing rainwater in a sustainable manner, with the goal of increasing water security in areas with limited or unreliable water supply as exhibited in arid and semi-arid lands or places with poor water infrastructure conditions. The research will initially explore existing rainwater harvesting systems, including both conventional and innovative designs, in order to identify the most effective methods for harvesting rainwater. This will include looking at appropriate storage, filtration and distribution systems, as well as considering the economic, environmental, and social impacts of these systems, identifying the benefits and drawbacks of their system design deployment. Following this, the research will focus on developing an autonomous rainwater harvesting system that is capable of responding to economic, environmental and social factors in an efficient and cost-effective manner. This will involve the development of an integrated and automated system for collecting, storing and distributing rainwater, with an emphasis on sustainability and water security. The research will consider issues such as water scarcity, resource management, and environmental protection in order to ensure that the autonomous rainwater harvesting system is designed with these considerations in mind. Additionally, it will analyze the cost-effectiveness of the proposed system, and explore potential areas of application for the system. Finally, the paper will provide an assessment of the overall impact of the autonomous rainwater harvesting system on water security and consider the potential for further development and improvement of the system if sustainable. Keywords: rainwater harvesting, distribution mechanisms, distributing water, water security. Title: SYNTHESIS: SMART RAINWATER HARVESTING, STORAGE AND DISTRIBUTION TO ENHANCE WATER SECURITY Author: Sam Okemwa, Kelvin Kiprono, DR. Eng. Peter Matuku, DR. Eng. Clement Kiptum, Prof. Eng. Emmanuel Kipkorir International Journal of Civil and Structural Engineering Research ISSN 2348-7607 (Online) Vol. 11, Issue 1, April 2023 - September 2023 Page No: 32-37 Research Publish Journals Website: www.researchpublish.com Published Date: 05-May-2023 DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.7898522 Paper Download Link (Source) https://www.researchpublish.com/papers/synthesis-smart-rainwater-harvesting-storage-and-distribution-to-enhance-water-security, International Journal of Civil and Structural Engineering Research, ISSN 2348-7607 (Online), Research Publish Journals, Website: www.researchpublish.com

Not available. © Dustri-Verlag Dr. K. Feistle.

Calcite is the most stable polymorph of CaCO3 at ambient conditions. It is ubiquitous in natural systems and controls to a large degree the geochemistry of terrestrial soils and sediments, but also of lacustrine- and seawater. Due to the reactivity of its surface, calcite has impact on the mobility of nutrients and contaminants in subsurface environments. Electrostatic phenomena at the calcite-water- interface provide a link between surface chemistry on the one hand side and hydrogeophysical methods like streaming potential or induced polarization measurements on the other hand side. In this study we present an updated view of the structure of the calcite(104)-water interface on the basis of a new extended crystal truncation rod data set, which allows to resolve previous ambiguities with respect to the coordination sphere around the surface Ca-ions and the relaxation of surface carbonate groups. On the basis of resonant surface diffraction data we investigate the interaction between calcite and weakly / non adsorbing Rb+ alkali metal cations. The structural aspects will be related to a newly developed electrostatic surface complexation model (SCM), describing the calcite-water-interface chemistry. For the first time, direct information on the inner surface potential of calcite, as measured with a calcite single crystal electrode, is included in the data constraining the calcite SCM, besides zeta potential data. Potential links between the calcite SCM and hydrogeophysical measurements will be highlighted.

Calcite, the most stable polymorph of CaCO 3 at ambient conditions, is ubiquitous in natural systems and controls to a large degree the geochemistry of environmental settings like terrestrial soils and sediments, lacustrine- or seawater. Due to the reactivity of its surface, calcite has impact on the mobility of nutrients and contaminants in subsurface environments. Electrostatic phenomena at the calcite-water- interface are of interest in many fields ranging from environmental studies, through oil recovery from chalk reservoirs, to industrial applications e.g. in the cement or paper production. In this study we present an updated view of the structure of the calcite(104)-water interface on the basis of a new extended crystal truncation rod data set, which allows to resolve previous ambiguities with respect to the coordination sphere around the surface Ca-ions and the relaxation of surface atoms within the top four mono-layers. The structural aspects are related to a newly developed electrostatic triple layer surface complexation model (SCM), describing the calcite- water-interface chemistry. For the first time, direct information on the inner surface potential of calcite, as measured with a calcite single crystal electrode, is included in the data constraining the calcite SCM, besides zeta potential data. All model parameters like ion binding constants and especially the Helmholtz capacitances are in a physically and chemically reasonable range. The surface protonation constants for surface calcium and carbonate groups, logK >CaOH- 0.5/CaOH2+0.5 and logK >CO3- 0.5/CO3H+0.5 , respectively, are in good agreement with MUSIC 1 calculations.

Summary The present guideline (S2k) on allergen-specific immunotherapy (AIT) was established by the German, Austrian and Swiss professional associations for allergy in consensus with the scientific specialist societies and professional associations in the fields of otolaryngology, dermatology and venereology, pediatric and adolescent medicine, pneumology as well as a German patient organization (German Allergy and Asthma Association; Deutscher Allergie- und Asthmabund, DAAB) according to the criteria of the Association of the Scientific Medical Societies in Germany (Arbeitsgemeinschaft der Wissenschaftlichen Medizinischen Fachgesellschaften, AWMF). AIT is a therapy with disease-modifying effects. By administering allergen extracts, specific blocking antibodies, toler-ance-inducing cells and mediators are activated. These prevent further exacerbation of the allergen-triggered immune response, block the specific immune response and attenuate the inflammatory response in tissue. Products for SCIT or SLIT cannot be compared at present due to their heterogeneous composition, nor can allergen concentrations given by different manufacturers be compared meaningfully due to the varying methods used to measure their active ingredients. Non-modified allergens are used for SCIT in the form of aqueous or physically adsorbed (depot) extracts, as well as chemically modified allergens (allergoids) as depot extracts. Allergen extracts for SLIT are used in the form of aqueous solutions or tablets. The clinical efficacy of AIT is measured using various scores as primary and secondary study endpoints. The EMA stipulates combined symptom and medication scores as primary endpoint. A harmonization of clinical endpoints, e. g., by using the combined symptom and medication scores (CSMS) recommended by the EAACI, is desirable in the future in order to permit the comparison of results from different studies. The current CONSORT recommendations from the ARIA/GA2LEN group specify standards for the evaluation, presentation and publication of study results. According to the Therapy allergen ordinance (TAV), preparations containing common allergen sources (pollen from grasses, birch, alder, hazel, house dust mites, as well as bee and wasp venom) need a marketing authorization in Germany. During the marketing authorization process, these preparations are examined regarding quality, safety and efficacy. In the opinion of the authors, authorized allergen preparations with documented efficacy and safety, or preparations tradeable under the TAV for which efficacy and safety have already been documented in clinical trials meeting WAO or EMA standards, should be preferentially used. Individual formulations (NPP) enable the prescription of rare allergen sources (e.g., pollen from ash, mugwort or ambrosia, mold Alternaria, animal allergens) for specific immunotherapy. Mixing these allergens with TAV allergens is not permitted. Allergic rhinitis and its associated co-morbidities (e. g., bronchial asthma) generate substantial direct and indirect costs. Treatment options, in particular AIT, are therefore evaluated using cost-benefit and cost-effectiveness analyses. From a long-term perspective, AIT is considered to be significantly more cost effective in allergic rhinitis and allergic asthma than pharmacotherapy, but is heavily dependent on patient compliance. Meta-analyses provide unequivocal evidence of the efficacy of SCIT and SLIT for certain allergen sources and age groups. Data from controlled studies differ in terms of scope, quality and dosing regimens and require product-specific evaluation. Therefore, evaluating individual preparations according to clearly defined criteria is recommended. A broad transfer of the efficacy of certain preparations to all preparations administered in the same way is not endorsed. The website of the German Society for Allergology and Clinical Immunology (www.dgaki.de/leitlinien/s2k-leitlinie-sit; DGAKI: Deutsche Gesellschaft für Allergologie und klinische Immunologie) provides tables with specific information on available products for AIT in Germany, Switzerland and Austria. The tables contain the number of clinical studies per product in adults and children, the year of market authorization, underlying scoring systems, number of randomized and analyzed subjects and the method of evaluation (ITT, FAS, PP), separately given for grass pollen, birch pollen and house dust mite allergens, and the status of approval for the conduct of clinical studies with these products. Strong evidence of the efficacy of SCIT in pollen allergy-induced allergic rhinoconjunctivitis in adulthood is well-documented in numerous trials and, in childhood and adolescence, in a few trials. Efficacy in house dust mite allergy is documented by a number of controlled trials in adults and few controlled trials in children. Only a few controlled trials, independent of age, are available for mold allergy (in particular Alternaria). With regard to animal dander allergies (primarily to cat allergens), only small studies, some with methodological deficiencies are available. Only a moderate and inconsistent therapeutic effect in atopic dermatitis has been observed in the quite heterogeneous studies conducted to date. SCIT has been well investigated for individual preparations in controlled bronchial asthma as defined by the Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA) 2007 and intermittent and mild persistent asthma (GINA 2005) and it is recommended as a treatment option, in addition to allergen avoidance and pharmacotherapy, provided there is a clear causal link between respiratory symptoms and the relevant allergen. The efficacy of SLIT in grass pollen-induced allergic rhinoconjunctivitis is extensively documented in adults and children, whilst its efficacy in tree pollen allergy has only been shown in adults. New controlled trials (some with high patient numbers) on house dust mite allergy provide evidence of efficacy of SLIT in adults. Compared with allergic rhinoconjunctivitis, there are only few studies on the efficacy of SLIT in allergic asthma. In this context, newer studies show an efficacy for SLIT on asthma symptoms in the subgroup of grass pollen allergic children, adolescents and adults with asthma and efficacy in primary house dust mite allergy-induced asthma in adolescents aged from 14 years and in adults. Aspects of secondary prevention, in particular the reduction of new sensitizations and reduced asthma risk, are important rationales for choosing to initiate treatment early in childhood and adolescence. In this context, those products for which the appropriate effects have been demonstrated should be considered. SCIT or SLIT with pollen or mite allergens can be performed in patients with allergic rhinoconjunctivitis using allergen extracts that have been proven to be effective in at least one double-blind placebo-controlled (DBPC) study. At present, clinical trials are underway for the indication in asthma due to house dust mite allergy, some of the results of which have already been published, whilst others are still awaited (see the DGAKI table “Approved/potentially completed studies” via www.dgaki.de/Leitlinien/s2k-Leitlinie-sit (according to www.clinicaltrialsregister.eu)). When establishing the indication for AIT, factors that favour clinical efficacy should be taken into consideration. Differences between SCIT and SLIT are to be considered primarily in terms of contraindications. In individual cases, AIT may be justifiably indicated despite the presence of contraindications. SCIT injections and the initiation of SLIT are performed by a physician experienced in this type of treatment and who is able to administer emergency treatment in the case of an allergic reaction. Patients must be fully informed about the procedure and risks of possible adverse events, and the details of this process must be documented (see “Treatment information sheet”; available as a handout via www.dgaki.de/Leitlinien/s2k-Leitlinie-sit). Treatment should be performed according to the manufacturer‘s product information leaflet. In cases where AIT is to be performed or continued by a different physician to the one who established the indication, close cooperation is required in order to ensure that treatment is implemented consistently and at low risk. In general, it is recommended that SCIT and SLIT should only be performed using preparations for which adequate proof of efficacy is available from clinical trials. Treatment adherence among AIT patients is lower than assumed by physicians, irrespective of the form of administration. Clearly, adherence is of vital importance for treatment success. Improving AIT adherence is one of the most important future goals, in order to ensure efficacy of the therapy. Severe, potentially life-threatening systemic reactions during SCIT are possible, but – providing all safety measures are adhered to – these events are very rare. Most adverse events are mild to moderate and can be treated well. Dose-dependent adverse local reactions occur frequently in the mouth and throat in SLIT. Systemic reactions have been described in SLIT, but are seen far less often than with SCIT. In terms of anaphylaxis and other severe systemic reactions, SLIT has a better safety profile than SCIT. The risk and effects of adverse systemic reactions in the setting of AIT can be effectively reduced by training of personnel, adhering to safety standards and prompt use of emergency measures, including early administration of i. m. epinephrine. Details on the acute management of anaphylactic reactions can be found in the current S2 guideline on anaphylaxis issued by the AWMF (S2-AWMF-LL Registry Number 061-025). AIT is undergoing some innovative developments in many areas (e. g., allergen characterization, new administration routes, adjuvants, faster and safer dose escalation protocols), some of which are already being investigated in clinical trials. Cite this as Pfaar O, Bachert C, Bufe A, Buhl R, Ebner C, Eng P, Friedrichs F, Fuchs T, Hamelmann E, Hartwig-Bade D, Hering T, Huttegger I, Jung K, Klimek L, Kopp MV, Merk H, Rabe U, Saloga J, Schmid-Grendelmeier P, Schuster A, Schwerk N, Sitter H, Umpfenbach U, Wedi B, Wöhrl S, Worm M, Kleine-Tebbe J. Guideline on allergen-specific immunotherapy in IgE-mediated allergic diseases – S2k Guideline of the German Society for Allergology and Clinical Immunology (DGAKI), the Society for Pediatric Allergy and Environmental Medicine (GPA), the Medical Association of German Allergologists (AeDA), the Austrian Society for Allergy and Immunology (ÖGAI), the Swiss Society for Allergy and Immunology (SGAI), the German Society of Dermatology (DDG), the German Society of Oto-Rhino-Laryngology, Head and Neck Surgery (DGHNO-KHC), the German Society of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine (DGKJ), the Society for Pediatric Pneumology (GPP), the German Respiratory Society (DGP), the German Association of ENT Surgeons (BV-HNO), the Professional Federation of Paediatricians and Youth Doctors (BVKJ), the Federal Association of Pulmonologists (BDP) and the German Dermatologists Association (BVDD). Allergo J Int 2014;23:282–319

Objectives: To study the long-term outcome of patients with primary hyperaldosteronism who underwent laparoscopic adrenalectomy and to determine the preoperative predictive factors of persistent hypertension. Methods: Between 1996 and 2002, 47 patients with primary hyperaldosteronism underwent transperitoneal laparoscopic adrenalectomy at our institution. Their clinical and biochemical parameters were reviewed retrospectively, and the outcome of 46 patients with complete follow-up notes were determined. Results: The study comprised 16 male and 30 female patients with a mean age of 45.6 years (range, 18 to 63 years). Almost all patients had hypertension and hypokalemia at presentation, requiring medication. The average operating time was 127 minutes (range, 70 to 240 min), and the mean postoperative stay was 2.6 days (range, 1 to 5 days). No mortalities occurred, and perioperative morbidity was minimal. Forty-two (91%) patients had adrenal cortical adenoma (including 1 with both adenoma and hyperplasia), and 4 (9%) had adrenal hyperplasia on histology. The average follow-up time was 21 months (range, 1 to 60 months), and at the end of follow-up, all patients had normal serum potassium levels without potassium supplements. Twenty-three (50%) patients were cured of hypertension, and 13 (28%) patients had better control of their hypertension as evidenced by the decrease in the number of antihypertensive medications used. On multivariate analysis, the age of the patient at surgery was shown to be an independent predictive factor of persistent hypertension after successful surgery. Conclusion: Laparoscopic adrenalectomy is a safe and effective way to treat primary hyperaldosteronism, especially in controlling hypokalemia and in the management of hypertension. The age of a patient at surgery is an independent preoperative risk factor of persistent hypertension.