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Among many fallouts of the global pandemic, firms' supply chains have been severely impacted at the global scale. Such global impact can be mainly attributed to companies' current heavy focus on lean manufacturing, resulting in a lack of preparedness and flexibility, and therefore weakening their supply chain links. At the same time, firms face severe financial distress and constraints if their investments in future risks turn out to be of no value. Facing such dilemmas, many firms are unsure of how to appropriately configure lean and risk management at their operational and supply chain levels. This study aims to understand the various configurations of lean manufacturing and supply chain risk management. Also, this study pays attention to buffer capacity associated with lean and risk management. In a dataset collected from 198 US companies, cluster analyses discover the manufacturers' configurations of the varying emphases on lean management and supply chain management. Our results indicate that firms achieve the highest levels of buffer capacity and firm performance if they implement lean practices and risk management at a higher level than others. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For the anodic H2O2 generation, it has been shown that the electrolyte composition can steer the reaction pathway toward increased H2O2 generation. Previous efforts made on composition optimization found that the impact of the molar fraction of carbonate species varies for different anodes, and therefore, controversies remain concerning the reaction pathways as well as the species involved in H2O2 formation. Considering that water oxidation results in the liberation of protons within the anode microenvironment, the corresponding acidification would cause an equilibrium shift between carbonate species, which in turn may modulate the reaction pathway. We determined the changes in the fraction of carbonate species in the vicinity of an anode by performing local pH measurements using a Au nanoelectrode positioned in close proximity to an operating anode by shear‐force scanning electrochemical microscopy (SECM). It could be confirmed that the main anionic species at the interface is HCO3−, at potentials where H2O2 is preferentially formed, regardless of the pH value in the bulk. The simultaneous use of a Au−Pt double barrel microelectrode in generator‐collector SECM measurements demonstrates that the local HCO3− concentration is collectively determined by the oxidation current, buffer capacity, and bulk pH of the electrolyte. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The application of the resilience concept within socioecological systems has recently received much attention. Assessing the characteristics of cocoa agroecosystems in the dry and moist semi-deciduous ecological zones has become critical for resilience analysis in this era of climate change and the constant shrinking of cocoa suitability areas. Previous studies have used one of the dimensions of resilience to analyse complex adaptive systems, excluding critical factors and variables. This study applied a multi-criteria decision-making process, the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) that accommodates the three dimensions of resilience, i.e., buffer capacity, adaptive capacity and self-organisation. The AHP is a multi-criteria decision-making tool that proceeds with the design of a hierarchy system for the goal, criteria, attributes and variables. Selected cocoa farmers were assigned weights related to criteria, attributes and variables in a comparison matrix. The resilience of the cocoa agroecosystems in Offinso Municipal and Adansi North Districts was 2.75 ± 0.06 (mean ± SD) and 3.23 ± 0.10 (mean ± SD), respectively. Buffer capacity contributed the highest proportion (44.3%) in the Offinso Municipal District, followed by adaptive capacity (38.7%) and self-organisation (17%). A similar trend was recorded for the Adansi North District: buffer capacity (42.9%), adaptive capacity (42.9%) and self-organisation (14.3%). Across the two study areas, shade trees, crop diversification, soil quality, cocoa variety, farm size, farm age, alternative livelihood, annual income and co-operative membership contributed prominently to the construction of cocoa agroecosystem resilience. The assessment of agroecosystem resilience is location-specific, and the study provides a simplified methodology for evaluating resilience. The paper aims to understand the importance of the components of the cocoa agroecosystem, and a simplified methodology for evaluating its resilience to perturbations. It presents a conceptual and methodological framework for the analysis and measurement of agroecosystem resilience in a participatory manner. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: The pH buffering capacity was higher in volcanic than non-volcanic soils. The sodium concentration increased exponentially in volcanic soils. The sulfate input increased the sulfur mineralization in soils. Reusing the by-products from wood pulp processing can promote the efficient use of resources. In this sense, the objective of this research was to determine the agronomic efficiency of CaCO3 and Na2SO4 by-products from wood pulp processing to establish criteria for their use and avoid undesirable side effects when applying these materials to the soil. Six treatments in proportions of 1; 0.9; 0.75; 0.5, 0.25, and 0, of CaCO3/Na2SO4, respectively, were incubated at a constant temperature and humidity for 15 days. The first proportion consisted of 100% CaCO3, while M1 mixed 90% CaCO3 and 10% Na2SO4, M2: 75% CaCO3 and 25% Na2SO4, M3: 50% CaCO3 and 50% Na2SO4, M4: 25% CaCO3 and 75% Na2SO4, with the last proportion comprised of 100% Na2SO4. Samples of 40 g from two soil series, Licantén (Inceptisol) and San José (Andisol), were used. The rates applied for each treatment were 0, 1, 2, 4, and 8 g of material per kg of dry soil. At the end of the incubation period, pH in water, pH in CaCl2, exchange bases (Ca2+, Mg2+, K+ and Na+) and extractable sulfur were determined. The results showed that the San José soil had a pH buffering capacity three times higher than that of the Licantén soil. The linear increase in pH was thus explained by the soil type in relation to the applied rate of CaCO3. The analysis of the increase in the exchangeable Na percentage (ESP) showed that the soils increased up to about 70% of their ESP with the highest added rate of Na2SO4. The application of a mixture of 25% Na2SO4 and 75% CaCO3 resulted in an increase in the ESP close to 15%; therefore, it is not recommended to use mixtures with a Na2SO4 content higher than 25% in these soils. Finally, we affirm that for M2 the maximum recommended dose for application should be 4 Mg ha−1, i.e., 3 g of material per kg of soil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the key physicochemical parameters of polyelectrolyte microcapsules (PMCs) is their buffer capacity (BC). The BC of the microcapsules allows for an assessment of the change in protonation state across the entire polyelectrolyte system, which directly impacts the buffer barrier of PMCs, as well as the stability and physical properties of their shell. However, the buffer capacity of PMCs and their behavior under changes in ionic strength and temperature can differ depending on the type of core used to form the microcapsules. As part of this study, we revealed the buffer capacity (BC) of polyelectrolyte microcapsules formed on polystyrene cores (PMCPs) and studied the influence of ionic strength and environmental temperature on the BC of these capsules. We found that the buffer capacity of PMCPs differs from the BC of water at a pH above 8; the addition of sodium chloride leads to an increase in buffer capacity in alkaline conditions, and conversely, thermal treatment leads to its decrease at a pH of 9. The results obtained are different from the BC of polyelectrolyte microcapsules formed on CaCO3 cores, which suggests a difference in the physicochemical properties of these types of capsules. The buffer capacity of polyelectrolyte microcapsules depends on the type of template used. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Cigarette smoke harbors over 7,000 chemical agents, thereby subjecting smokers to a multitude of toxins. Smoking induces oxidative stress indicated by increased oxidative damage of biomarkers on protein, DNA, and lipid. Panoramic radiography is one type of radiography technique where x-ray beams pass through the salivary gland, which makes it receive the highest absorbed doses compared to other organs and thus can affect the acinar cells. Materials and methods: Unstimulated whole saliva samples were taken three times: before exposure (E1), right after exposure (E2), and ten days after exposure (E3). Salivary pH was measured with the LAQUAtwin pH-11 Horiba pH meter. Buffer capacity was determined using the Ericsson method, while total protein, sodium, and potassium levels were calculated with the Kyltec autoanalyzer. Statistical analysis was done with the computerized statistical test, using a nonparametric test Kolmogorov Smirnov and a comparative test oneway Anova. Results: The result of saliva components tested on this study showed a lower value for all components in smoker compared to non smoker. There were significant differences between salivary pH, p<0.05 in both groups, and total protein level in the smoker group (p<0.05) (Table I). In contrast, other components in both groups had no significant difference after being exposed to panoramic radiograph. Conclusion: This study found that panoramic radiographs significantly affect salivary pH before and after exposure in both groups, as well as the total protein level in the smoker group. However, other tested salivary components showed no significant difference in all time intervals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Information on the conditions under which drugs are transferred from the stomach through the upper small intestine after a high-calorie, high-fat meal is very limited. To simulate the drug presence after disintegration and arrival in the antral region, paracetamol solution and Sporanox® amorphous solid dispersion pellets at two dose levels were administered to the antrum of 8 healthy adults 30 min after administration of a high-calorie, high-fat meal on a crossover basis. The overall median buffer capacity of antral contents was estimated to be 18.0 and 24.0 mmol/ml/ΔpH when titrating with NaOH and HCl, respectively. The corresponding values for the contents of upper the small intestine were 14.0 and 16.8 mmol/ml/ΔpH, respectively. The drug transfer process from the antrum through the upper small intestine occurred with apparent first-order kinetics. The best estimate for the antral emptying half-life was 39min and 45min for paracetamol and itraconazole, respectively, the apparent volume of contents of the upper small intestine was more than double compared with previously reported values in the fasted state, the half-life of drug elimination from the upper small intestine was similar to recent estimates for highly permeable drugs in the fasted state, and the apparent volume of antral contents during the first couple of hours post drug administration was 303mL. Information collected in this study could increase the reliability of in silico and/or in vitro modelling approaches applied in clinical drug development. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Orthodontic treatment can alter the oral environment, leading to plaque accumulation and changes in microbial colonization. This study aimed to assess microbiological changes in 10 to 16-year-old children undergoing fixed orthodontic treatment. Methodology: The study included children aged 10–16 years, with one group wearing fixed orthodontic appliances and a control group without brackets. Data on salivary pH, buffer capacity, Streptococcus mutans, and Lactobacillus spp were collected at baseline and after 6 months. Logistic regression models evaluated associations between orthodontic treatment and elevated bacterial levels, adjusting for age, gender, pH, and buffer capacity. Results: Wearing fixed orthodontic appliances was significantly associated with elevated Streptococcus mutans (aOR: 6.62, 95% CI: 1.91–21.88) and Lactobacillus spp (aOR: 9.49, 95% CI: 2.57–35.07). Gender showed a significant association with Lactobacillus spp levels (aOR: 0.28, 95% CI: 0.09–0.87). Conclusion: Fixed orthodontic appliances significantly impact oral microbial changes, underscoring the need for proper oral hygiene during orthodontic treatment to reduce dental caries risk.

Introduction Saliva is a clear, watery fluid that is produced by the salivary glands in the mouth. It plays a crucial role in maintaining oral health and facilitating the process of digestion. The bacterial load in nighttime saliva can be influenced by factors such as oral hygiene practices, diet, and overall oral health. Aim of the study The aim of the study is to uncover the potential connection between the presence of Streptococcus mutans bacteria and the buffering capacity of saliva, and how this connection impacts the risk of dental caries in children with ages under 5 years old. Material and methods Three groups of young patients with ages between 3 and 5 years old were formed during the regular dental check-up, in the Pedodontics Clinic of the Faculty of Dental Medicine, UMFST “G.E. Palade”. From each of the we have collected the saliva early in the morning, without the children having their teeth brushed using special sterile plastic cups. We have tested the buffer effect of the saliva using specific test and for the determination of bacterial saliva parameters we used Karies Screen Test. Results Group A – 43 (40.18%), included children who presented at least 3 dental caries, group B – 37 (34.57%) of children had 1 or 2 carries, and the control group of children – 27 (25,23%), with intact dentition without carious processes. 39 (36.44%) children had high density of Streptococcus Mutans colonies > 10 units CFU/ml saliva form group A, 35 (32.71%) children presented low to medium density < 10 units CFU/ml saliva from group B and for the group control all 27 (25.23%) children presented very low density < 5 units CFU/ml saliva. The hights buffer capacity scores were obtained for the group control. Conclusions Children with higher buffer capacity in their saliva tend to exhibit better oral health, including a lower prevalence of dental caries. The buffering capacity of saliva plays a protective role by neutralizing acids produced by oral bacteria, such as Streptococcus mutans, thus

This paper investigates a self-repairable serial system with two components and a buffer. Competitive failure processes are considered due to the internal degradation and external shock processes of components. The system reliability is calculated based on the integration of the internal degradation process and external shock process. When one of the components deteriorates to the PM or CM thresholds, it is restored to an imperfect state under dynamic time limitations based on the previous internal degradation and external shocks. As for the other component, it needs to be repaired or not according to the reliability of the component; it needs to be shut down or not based on the buffer status and the allocation of the component in the system. The optimal initial buffer capacity setting and PM threshold at minimum cost are found by minimizing the system's total cost in a given running cycle. Finally, numerical and case studies are provided to demonstrate the feasibility and superiority of the presented model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Estuaries can remove and/or retain land-derived nitrogen (N) and act as filters buffering N loads to the open sea. The N coastal filter can be seasonally variable depending on water temperature and transported loads, two factors acting in synergy and strongly influenced by climate change. The capacity of sediments to mitigate riverine N loads was investigated at four sites in the Vistula River plume area (Gulf of Gdańsk, Southern Baltic Sea). Samplings were carried out in two contrasting seasons: spring and summer, characterized by different water temperatures and nitrate (NO3 -) levels. Inorganic N fluxes, and rates of denitrification and dissimilatory nitrate reduction to ammonium (DNRA) were measured in intact sediment cores by means of dark incubations and 15N-nitrate concentration-series experiments. Sampling sites were selected along a gradient of depth (5 to 24 m), that was also a gradient of sediment organic matter content. In both seasons, denitrification rates increased along with depth and from spring (6.5 ± 7.0 µmolm-2 h-1) to summer (20.4 ± 15.4 µmolm-2 h-1), despite lower NO3 - concentrations in summer. In spring, at higher NO3 - loading, denitrification was likely limited by low water temperature, and elevated sediment oxygen penetration. Coupled denitrification-nitrification prevailed over denitrification of water column NO3 - across all sites and seasons, contributing to over 80% of the total denitrification. Notably, no anammox was detected at the sampling sites. DNRA exhibited low to undetectable rates in spring, especially at the shallowest sites. However, during summer, N recycling via DNRA increased and ranged from 0.7 to 14.9 µmol m-2 h-1. The denitrification efficiency (DE), calculated as the ratio between molecular nitrogen (N2) flux and dissolved inorganic N effluxes from sediments, ranged from 0 to 37% in spring, whereas in summer DE did not exceed 16%. Despite the dominance of denitrification over DNRA, the analyzed sediments acted as weak N buffers under in situ dark conditions. However, concentrationseries experiments suggested high potential denitrification capacity, exceeding 400 µmol m-2 h-1, in response to short-term, large riverine inputs of NO³ -. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The application of the resilience concept within socioecological systems has recently received much attention. Assessing the characteristics of cocoa agroecosystems in the dry and moist semi-deciduous ecological zones has become critical for resilience analysis in this era of climate change and the constant shrinking of cocoa suitability areas. Previous studies have used one of the dimensions of resilience to analyse complex adaptive systems, excluding critical factors and variables. This study applied a multi-criteria decision-making process, the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) that accommodates the three dimensions of resilience, i.e., buffer capacity, adaptive capacity and self-organisation. The AHP is a multi-criteria decision-making tool that proceeds with the design of a hierarchy system for the goal, criteria, attributes and variables. Selected cocoa farmers were assigned weights related to criteria, attributes and variables in a comparison matrix. The resilience of the cocoa agroecosystems in Offinso Municipal and Adansi North Districts was 2.75 ± 0.06 (mean ± SD) and 3.23 ± 0.10 (mean ± SD), respectively. Buffer capacity contributed the highest proportion (44.3%) in the Offinso Municipal District, followed by adaptive capacity (38.7%) and self-organisation (17%). A similar trend was recorded for the Adansi North District: buffer capacity (42.9%), adaptive capacity (42.9%) and self-organisation (14.3%). Across the two study areas, shade trees, crop diversification, soil quality, cocoa variety, farm size, farm age, alternative livelihood, annual income and co-operative membership contributed prominently to the construction of cocoa agroecosystem resilience. The assessment of agroecosystem resilience is location-specific, and the study provides a simplified methodology for evaluating resilience. The paper aims to understand the importance of the components of the cocoa agroecosystem, and a simplified methodology for evaluating its resilience to perturbations. It presents a conceptual and methodological framework for the analysis and measurement of agroecosystem resilience in a participatory manner.

One of the key physicochemical parameters of polyelectrolyte microcapsules (PMCs) is their buffer capacity (BC). The BC of the microcapsules allows for an assessment of the change in protonation state across the entire polyelectrolyte system, which directly impacts the buffer barrier of PMCs, as well as the stability and physical properties of their shell. However, the buffer capacity of PMCs and their behavior under changes in ionic strength and temperature can differ depending on the type of core used to form the microcapsules. As part of this study, we revealed the buffer capacity (BC) of polyelectrolyte microcapsules formed on polystyrene cores (PMCPs) and studied the influence of ionic strength and environmental temperature on the BC of these capsules. We found that the buffer capacity of PMCPs differs from the BC of water at a pH above 8; the addition of sodium chloride leads to an increase in buffer capacity in alkaline conditions, and conversely, thermal treatment leads to its decrease at a pH of 9. The results obtained are different from the BC of polyelectrolyte microcapsules formed on CaCO3 cores, which suggests a difference in the physicochemical properties of these types of capsules. The buffer capacity of polyelectrolyte microcapsules depends on the type of template used.

Dermal absorption of weak electrolytes applied to skin from pharmaceutical and cosmetic compositions is an important consideration for both their efficacy and skin safety. We developed a mechanistic, physics-based framework that simulates this process for leave on applications following solvent deposition. We incorporated this framework into our finite dose computational skin permeation model previously tested with nonelectrolytes to generate quantitative predictions for weak electrolytes. To test the model, we analyzed experimental data from an in vitro human skin permeation study of a weak acid (benzoic acid) and a weak base (propranolol) and their sodium and hydrochloride salts from simple, ethanol/water vehicles as a function of dose and ionization state. Key factors controlling absorption are the pH and buffer capacity of the dose solution, the dissolution rate of precipitated solids into a lipid boundary layer and the rate of conversion of the deposited solid to its conjugate form as the nonionized component permeates and (sometimes) evaporates from the skin surface. The resulting framework not only describes the current test data but has the potential to predict the absorption of other weak electrolytes following topical application. [Display omitted] • Weak electrolytes precipitated on skin as solids redissolve and penetrate the skin. • We model absorption as a function of dissolution rate, skin load and ionization state. • Skin pH recovers exponentially post-dose with a t 1/2 related to dose buffer capacity. • The model is calibrated based on in vitro permeation data for a weak acid and base. • The framework has potential to predict absorption of a wide range of electrolytes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article discusses a study on the potential link between the presence of Streptococcus mutans bacteria and the buffering capacity of saliva in young children under 5 years old. The study found that children with higher buffer capacity in their saliva tend to have better oral health, including a lower prevalence of dental caries. Saliva plays a protective role by neutralizing acids produced by oral bacteria, contributing to reduced tooth decay. Factors such as oral hygiene practices, diet, and overall oral health can influence the bacterial load in nighttime saliva. However, further research is needed to fully understand the relationship between salivary buffering capacity and the prevalence of Streptococcus Mutans colonies. [Extracted from the article]

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Estuaries can remove and/or retain land-derived nitrogen (N) and act as filters buffering N loads to the open sea. The N coastal filter can be seasonally variable depending on water temperature and transported loads, two factors acting in synergy and strongly influenced by climate change. The capacity of sediments to mitigate riverine N loads was investigated at four sites in the Vistula River plume area (Gulf of Gdańsk, Southern Baltic Sea). Samplings were carried out in two contrasting seasons: spring and summer, characterized by different water temperatures and nitrate (NO3-) levels. Inorganic N fluxes, and rates of denitrification and dissimilatory nitrate reduction to ammonium (DNRA) were measured in intact sediment cores by means of dark incubations and 15N-nitrate concentration-series experiments. Sampling sites were selected along a gradient of depth (5 to 24 m), that was also a gradient of sediment organic matter content. In both seasons, denitrification rates increased along with depth and from spring (6.5 ± 7.0 µmol m-2 h-1) to summer (20.4 ± 15.4 µmol m-2 h-1), despite lower NO3- concentrations in summer. In spring, at higher NO3- loading, denitrification was likely limited by low water temperature, and elevated sediment oxygen penetration. Coupled denitrification-nitrification prevailed over denitrification of water column NO3- across all sites and seasons, contributing to over 80% of the total denitrification. Notably, no anammox was detected at the sampling sites. DNRA exhibited low to undetectable rates in spring, especially at the shallowest sites. However, during summer, N recycling via DNRA increased and ranged from 0.7 to 14.9 µmol m-2 h-1. The denitrification efficiency (DE), calculated as the ratio between molecular nitrogen (N2) flux and dissolved inorganic N effluxes from sediments, ranged from 0 to 37% in spring, whereas in summer DE did not exceed 16%. Despite the dominance of denitrification over DNRA, the analyzed sediments acted as weak N buffers under in situ dark conditions. However, concentration-series experiments suggested high potential denitrification capacity, exceeding 400 µmol m-2 h-1, in response to short-term, large riverine inputs of NO3-.

Reusing the by-products from wood pulp processing can promote the efficient use of resources. In this sense, the objective of this research was to determine the agronomic efficiency of CaCO3 and Na2SO4 by-products from wood pulp processing to establish criteria for their use and avoid undesirable side effects when applying these materials to the soil. Six treatments in proportions of 1; 0.9; 0.75; 0.5, 0.25, and 0, of CaCO3/Na2SO4, respectively, were incubated at a constant temperature and humidity for 15 days. The first proportion consisted of 100% CaCO3, while M1 mixed 90% CaCO3 and 10% Na2SO4, M2: 75% CaCO3 and 25% Na2SO4, M3: 50% CaCO3 and 50% Na2SO4, M4: 25% CaCO3 and 75% Na2SO4, with the last proportion comprised of 100% Na2SO4. Samples of 40 g from two soil series, Licantén (Inceptisol) and San José (Andisol), were used. The rates applied for each treatment were 0, 1, 2, 4, and 8 g of material per kg of dry soil. At the end of the incubation period, pH in water, pH in CaCl2, exchange bases (Ca2+, Mg2+, K+ and Na+) and extractable sulfur were determined. The results showed that the San José soil had a pH buffering capacity three times higher than that of the Licantén soil. The linear increase in pH was thus explained by the soil type in relation to the applied rate of CaCO3. The analysis of the increase in the exchangeable Na percentage (ESP) showed that the soils increased up to about 70% of their ESP with the highest added rate of Na2SO4. The application of a mixture of 25% Na2SO4 and 75% CaCO3 resulted in an increase in the ESP close to 15%; therefore, it is not recommended to use mixtures with a Na2SO4 content higher than 25% in these soils. Finally, we affirm that for M2 the maximum recommended dose for application should be 4 Mg ha−1, i.e., 3 g of material per kg of soil.

Interest in biochar as an additive to enhance anaerobic digestion (AD) has grown in the context of biomass cascading use and the 2050 net-zero goal. However, few studies have investigated the effects of biochar on AD from a biochar production perspective, including biomass feedstocks and pyrolysis temperatures. To valorise biomass and better understand the mechanisms and environmental implications of using biochar in AD, this study investigated the effects of distinct biochar types on AD under acid stress-induced process inhibition using batch tests. The results demonstrated that biochar can mitigate acid stress and enhance the methane production rate. The kinetic rate constant of methane production is positively related to the buffer capacity of the tested biochars ( R ^2 = 0.88). The choice of feedstocks is a crucial factor ( P = 0.003), particularly the best-performing biochars derived from raw grass silage. In contrast, the pyrolysis temperature effect was less significant ( P = 0.18). Furthermore, the analysis of biochar indicates that the alkali (K) and alkaline earth (Ca, Mg) metals contained in biochar may be one of the important factors contributing to buffer capacity ( R ^2 = 0.82 to 0.86). Hence, buffer capacity is a crucial quality criteria when evaluating biochar for AD applications. Raw grass silage biochars are promising for acid stress mitigation due to their high buffer capacity, while carbon-rich woody biochars have high CO _2 sequestration potential. A compromise between mitigating acid stress and sequestering carbon is the use of pre-treated grass biochar. Overall, the use of biochar-enriched digestate offers a potential way to close material loops and complete the biomass-to-biochar value chain.

Sustaining the development of rural and pastoral communities' hinges on livelihood resilience. Pastoralist household resilience relies on resource availability and decision-making abilities. Despite extensive studies on pastoralist livelihoods, a significant knowledge gap remains in understanding the nuanced adaptive capacities of diverse households, particularly amid grassland degradation. Thus, this study investigates the household-based livelihood resilience of pastoralists in China's Three-River Headwater Region, offering policy recommendations for resilient livelihoods. Using stratified random sampling, 758 pastoralist household heads underwent semi-structured interviews to collect data. Five household characteristics, encompassing age, gender, energy use, well-being perception, and multi-household grazing participation, were evaluated. Looking ot the nature of data, descriptive statistics and non-parametric tests were performed in this study to draw the valid inferences. The results revealed a positive correlation (p < 0.05) between household head age and livelihood resilience, with divergent resilience across age groups. Varied energy usage yielded distinct impacts; households employing solar or mixed energy sources exhibited heightened resilience (p < 0.05). Household well-being emerged as an invariant variable concerning resilience. Furthermore, engagement in multi-household grazing (an informal institution) significantly (p < 0.05) influenced pastoralist livelihood resilience. These insights advocate targeted support for young household heads and the adoption of clean energy. Exploring the deeper strategies and mechanisms of multi-household grazing can enhance understanding and policy integration, guiding eco-friendly progress within rustic landscapes for pastoral communities. [Display omitted] • Socio-personal practices shape pastoralists' livelihood resilience. • Solar-yak dung integration boosts pastoral community resilience. • Multi-household grazing enhances interconnectivity, cooperation, risk mitigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For the anodic H 2 O 2 generation, it has been shown that the electrolyte composition can steer the reaction pathway toward increased H 2 O 2 generation. Previous efforts made on composition optimization found that the impact of the molar fraction of carbonate species varies for different anodes, and therefore, controversies remain concerning the reaction pathways as well as the species involved in H 2 O 2 formation. Considering that water oxidation results in the liberation of protons within the anode microenvironment, the corresponding acidification would cause an equilibrium shift between carbonate species, which in turn may modulate the reaction pathway. We determined the changes in the fraction of carbonate species in the vicinity of an anode by performing local pH measurements using a Au nanoelectrode positioned in close proximity to an operating anode by shear-force scanning electrochemical microscopy (SECM). It could be confirmed that the main anionic species at the interface is HCO 3 - , at potentials where H 2 O 2 concentration is collectively determined by the oxidation current, buffer capacity, and bulk pH of the electrolyte.3 - concentration is collectively determined by the oxidation current, buffer capacity, and bulk pH of the electrolyte., (© 2024 The Authors. Angewandte Chemie International Edition published by Wiley-VCH GmbH.)

Introduction: Orthodontic treatment can alter the oral environment, leading to plaque accumulation and changes in microbial colonization. This study aimed to assess microbiological changes in 10 to 16-year-old children undergoing fixed orthodontic treatment., Methodology: The study included children aged 10-16 years, with one group wearing fixed orthodontic appliances and a control group without brackets. Data on salivary pH, buffer capacity, Streptococcus mutans, and Lactobacillus spp were collected at baseline and after 6 months. Logistic regression models evaluated associations between orthodontic treatment and elevated bacterial levels, adjusting for age, gender, pH, and buffer capacity., Results: Wearing fixed orthodontic appliances was significantly associated with elevated Streptococcus mutans (aOR: 6.62, 95% CI: 1.91-21.88) and Lactobacillus spp (aOR: 9.49, 95% CI: 2.57-35.07). Gender showed a significant association with Lactobacillus spp levels (aOR: 0.28, 95% CI: 0.09-0.87)., Conclusion: Fixed orthodontic appliances significantly impact oral microbial changes, underscoring the need for proper oral hygiene during orthodontic treatment to reduce dental caries risk., Competing Interests: There are no conflicts of interest., (Copyright: © 2024 Journal of Pharmacy and Bioallied Sciences.)

Wound pH has emerged as a promising therapeutic target in diabetic foot ulcers (DFU). Here, we aimed to develop a microparticle-loaded hydrogel for pH modulation in wound fluid. In a screen of polymeric and inorganic microparticles, zeolites were identified as pH-modulating microparticles. Zeolites were encapsulated in a calcium cross-linked alginate hydrogel, a biocompatible matrix clinically used as a wound dressing. This hydrogel potently neutralized hydroxide ions in serum-containing simulated wound fluid. These findings encourage a further development of this pH-modulating device as a molecular therapeutic system for DFUs.