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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-.

The caries activities of some commercially available children's beverages were measured to determine the risk of dental caries and provide basic data for preventing dental caries. For the experimental beverage, the beverages with the highest market share among carbonated beverages, fruit beverages, milk, and fermented milk products sold in the domestic market were selected. As a control, 0.25% glucose trypticase soy broth was prepared and used. The pH of the beverages, titrate acid and buffering capacity, and the acid production and vitality were measured over time after inoculating the beverages with Streptococcus mutans. The pH of children's beverages was the lowest in soda (2.61±0.02), and milk had the lowest in titratable acid (14.00±0.58). Fermented milk (80.33±3.64) had the highest buffering capacity, and carbonated beverage (9.40±1.06) had the lowest (P＜0.05). Carbonated beverages (3 hr and 25 min) had the highest acid production, and milk (4 hr) had the lowest. In conclusion, thorough oral hygiene management is necessary after consuming children’s beverages because they have a low pH promote high acid production of S. mutans.

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.

A Matlab GUI program, IngredientDB, was developed to help determine the pH and buffering of ingredients in acidic food products based on product formulations. A database of buffer capacity models for both low acid and acid food ingredients was developed and used to show how individual food ingredients influence the final product pH. The IngredientDB program may be used for in silico formulations of acidic food products to help assure the quality and safety of these foods.

Protective coatings for bronze relics should adhere to the basic principles of cultural relic preservation, such as not altering the color and appearance of the artifacts, and being moderately combined with the artifacts to resist erosion due to external environments (such as water and gas). This paper presents the development of a physically crosslinked supramolecular hydrogel produced from guanidinium-based chitosan (GC). The hydrogel exhibits the excellent adsorption protection of bronze, and the addition of clay enhances the water barrier properties of the chitosan film. The supramolecular interaction between sodium polyacrylate/GC/clay confers corrosion buffering capability to the hydrogel coating in corrosive environments, and the gel coating can be self-healing at room temperature for 24 h. The fabricated nanocomposites were comprehensively characterized using various methods (Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, thermogravimetric analysis, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, etc.). The electrochemical properties of coated specimens were evaluated, and the impedance spectrum revealed a large impedance arc indicating high charge resistance, which has a corrosion resistance effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recognizing the resilience and especially the livelihood resilience of farmers is of great importance for policy makers. Thus, the present study is aimed to analyze farmers’ livelihood resilience to climate change (LRCC). The studied area was Hamadan province in the west of Iran. The research methodology is qualitative content analysis (QCA) with a deductive approach, which is performed by selecting reliable sources and examining existing theories and content in livelihood resilience. The documents used for QCA included a systematic study of 44 articles from 33 journals (12 local (Iranian) journals and 21 international journals) and 5 M.Sc. thesis. The results indicated that farmers' LRCC are based on three dimensions including “buffer capacity (the sum of subsistence capital including human, physical, financial, natural and social capital)”, “self-organization (ability to form flexible networks to deal with unbalanced conditions and environmental, economic and social challenges)” and “learning capacity (acquiring knowledge and skills to form a resilient structure)”. In this regard, the most important factors affecting LRCC are: institutional-structural, environmental psychology, adaptation capacity and personal and professional characteristics. Finally, the LRCC model is presented in the agriculture sector, which can be used by policymakers in planning and making decisions.

Introduction: Due to the shortage of land and water resource, optimization of systems for production in commercial greenhouses is essential for sustainable vegetable supply. The performance of lettuce productivity and the economic benefit in greenhouses using a soil-based system (SBS) and a hydroponic production system (HPS) were compared in this study. Methods: Experiments were conducted in two identical greenhouses over two growth cycles (G1 and G2). Three treatments of irrigation volumes (S1, S2, and S3) were evaluated for SBS while three treatments of nutrient solution concentration (H1, H2, and H3) were evaluated for HPS; the optimal levels from each system were then compared. Results and discussion: HPS was more sensitive to the effects of environmental temperature than SBS because of higher soil buffer capacity. Compared with SBS, higher yield (more than 134%) and higher water productivity (more than 50%) were observed in HPS. We detected significant increases in ascorbic acid by 28.31% and 16.67% and in soluble sugar by 57.84% and 32.23% during G1 and G2, respectively, compared with SBS. However, nitrate accumulated in HPS-grown lettuce. When the nutrient solution was replaced with fresh water 3 days before harvest, the excess nitrate content of harvested lettuce in HPS was removed. The initial investment and total operating cost in HPS were 21.76 times and 47.09% higher than those in SBS, respectively. Consideration of agronomic, quality, and economic indicators showed an overall optimal performance of the H2 treatment. These findings indicated that, in spite of its higher initial investment and requirement of advanced technology and management, HPS was more profitable than SBS for commercial lettuce production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Modelling the lime requirement (LR) is a fast and efficient way to determine the amount of lime required to obtain a pH that can overcome the adverse effects caused by soil acidification. This study aimed to model the LR based on the properties of soil and lime. A total of 17 acidic soils and 39 lime samples underwent soil–lime incubation in the laboratory. The predictive equations for the LR (t ha−1) were modelled using ∆pH (the difference between the target pH and initial pH), the neutralizing value (NV, mmol kg−1) of lime, soil pH, soil clay content (%), soil bulk density (BD, g cm−3), and the depth of soil (h, cm) as the factors in an exponential equation. The generic predictive equation, L R = ∆ p H × e − 3.88 − 0.069 × N V + 0.51 × p H + 0.025 × C l a y × B D × h , was validated as the most reliable model under field conditions. Simplified predictive equations for different soil textures when limed with quicklime and limestone are also provided. Furthermore, the LR proportions provided by hydrated lime, quicklime, limestone, and dolomite in commercially available lime can be expressed as 0.58:0.64:0.97:1.00. This study provides a novel and robust model for predicting the amount of lime product containing components with different neutralizing abilities that are required to neutralize soils with a wide range of properties. It is of great significance to agronomic activities and soil remediation projects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The precise management of the nutrient solution pH is substantial for optimizing the growth and yield of hydroponically cultivated crops. Nutrient solution pH affects the solubility and availability of essential nutrients; however, during hydroponic cultivation, the pH of nutrient solution fluctuates due to unbalanced ion absorption by plants. Nutrient solution pH fluctuations might be passively controlled using a supplementary buffering agent. Nutrient solution characteristics such as pH and buffering agent molarity must be addressed simultaneously. Therefore, in this study, we aimed to evaluate hydroponically cultivated lettuce's physiological response to minor nutrient solution pH differences and the impact of supplementary buffering agent molarity on its growth, antioxidant activity, and mineral nutrient uptake. Green lettuce (Lactuca sativa (L.)) 'Hugin' was cultivated in deep water culture (DWC) hydroponics in a controlled environment replicating common vertical farming conditions, and nutrient solution pH impact within the range of 5.0–6.5 was evaluated every 0.5 pH unit. Initial nutrient solution buffer capacity was enhanced by adding MES (2-(N-morpholino) ethanesulfonic acid) at 0, 1, 3, and 5 mM concentrations. Results show that even small nutrient pH differences are reflected in plant physiological responses, indicating the significance of precise pH management. Even though dry weight accumulation is not affected by the pH 5.0–5.5 treatment, it increases root antioxidant response according to ABTS (2,2-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid) radical scavenging activity. An initial nutrient solution buffer capacity increment with 3 mM of MES (2-(N-morpholino) ethanesulfonic acid) supplementary buffering agent resulted in a 17% yield increase compared to a nutrient solution without an additional buffering agent. MES buffer can provide adequate, passive, and precise nutrient solution pH control within the pH range of 6.0–6.5. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to prevent drugs from being captured and degraded by the acidic environment of organelles, such as lysosomes, after entering cells, this study designed and synthesized a novel carrier amphiphilic polypeptide (DGRHHHLLLAAAA), designated P13, for use as a tumor-targeting drug delivery vehicle. The P13 peptide was synthesized by the solid phase synthesis method, and its self-assembly behavior and drug-loading capacity in aqueous solution were studied and characterized in vitro. Doxorubicin (DOX) was loaded by dialysis method, and P13 and DOX were mixed at a mass ratio of 6:1 to form regular rounded globules. The acid–base buffering capacity of P13 was investigated determined by acid–base titration. The results revealed that P13 had excellent acid–base buffering capacity, a critical micelle concentration value of about 0.000 21 g l−1, and the particle size of P13-Dox nanospheres was 167 nm. The drug encapsulation efficiency and drug loading capacity of micelles were 20.40 ± 1.21% and 21.25 ± 2.79%, respectively. At the concentration of 50 μ g ml−1 of P13-DOX, the inhibition rate was 73.35%. The results of the in vivo antitumor activity assay in mice showed that P13-DOX also exhibited excellent inhibitory effect on tumor growth, compared with the tumor weight of 1.1 g in the control group, the tumor weight in the P13-DOX-treated group was only 0.26 g. Additionally, the results of hematoxylin and eosin staining of the organs showed that P13-DOX had no damaging effect on normal tissues. The novel amphiphilic peptide P13 with proton sponge effect designed and prepared in this study is expected to be a promising tumor-targeting drug carrier with excellent application potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to investigate the isolated effects of NaHCO3 on cycling time-trial performance. Furthermore, we investigated whether the ingestion time of NaHCO3, standardized or individualized based on time to peak, could be effective in improving cycling time-trial performance. A systematic review was carried out on randomized placebo-controlled studies. A random-effects meta-analysis assessed the standardized mean difference (SMD) between NaHCO3 and placebo conditions. Eighteen studies were qualitatively (systematic review) and quantitatively (meta-analysis) analysed concerning mean power output (Wmean) (n = 182) and time performance (n = 201). The reviewed studies showed a low risk of bias and homogenous results for Wmean (I2 = 0%) and performance time (I2 = 0%). Overall, when compared to placebo, the NaHCO3 ingestion improved the Wmean (SMD: 0.42; 95% CI: 0.21–0.63; P = 0.001) and performance time (SMD: 0.22; 95% CI: 0.02–0.43; P = 0.03). Similarly, the NaHCO3 ingestion using a time-to-peak strategy improved the Wmean (SMD: 0.39; 95% CI: 0.03–0.75; P = 0.04; I2 = 15%) and performance time (SMD: 0.34; 95% CI: 0.07–0.61, P = 0.01, I2 = 0%). The present findings reveal that NaHCO3 ingestion has the potential to increase the overall performance time and Wmean in cycling time trials. Highlights NaHCO3 is an effective strategy to increase cycling time-trial performance. The standardized protocol did not improve the cycling time-trial performance parameters. The individualized time-to-peak NaHCO3 ingestion has a positive effect on time and Wmean during cycling time-trial performance [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Maintenance policy considering energy-saving based on dual time windows is proposed. • The energy-saving time window is used to find the energy-saving opportunities. • This article focuses on energy consumption, cost, and quality. • The superiority is illustrated by an automotive manufacturing system. This paper proposes a novel optimal maintenance policy considering energy-saving based on dual time windows is proposed for a serial production system with limited buffering. The machines suffer from degradation, and the degradation process obeys the Gamma random process. Based on the dual time windows, condition-based preventive maintenance and opportunistic maintenance are activated: when a machine reaches a set state (i.e., threshold deterioration state), the preventive maintenance action is taken, and the time of preventive maintenance performed is determined by the time window w ; meanwhile, the time window W is used to determine whether the other machines need opportunity maintenance. To reduce energy consumption, and increase the proportion of effective energy in the manufacturing process, the energy-saving time window is used to find the energy-saving opportunities for the system. The impact of different maintenance thresholds and dual time windows on the maintenance cost per effective product is discussed through Monte Carlo simulation. A practical example of an automotive manufacturing system is provided, and comparative analyses with other maintenance policies are used to illustrate the superiority of the proposed policy in energy saving, cost reduction, and quality improvement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We consider a chain of in-series circuits; a constant-voltage source is connected to one of its ends, and a tunnel diode and a constant capacitor to another one. We show that a nonlinear system of ordinary differential equations in which the known buffer capacity phenomenon is realized serves as a mathematical model of the given generator. Namely, using the combination of analytic and numerical methods, we establish an unlimited growth of the number of coexisting attractors of this system as the number of circuits increases and the other parameters change appropriately. We also perform a comparative analysis of the local dynamics in the discrete and continuous circuits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The information on the behaviour of potassium (K+) in tropical paddy rice soils, which is important for a better understanding of the plant availability of K+ is still very limited. We compared the quantity-intensity (Q/I) relationships for K+ under conventional tillage and no-tillage systems in tropical paddy fields in the absence and presence of K+ fertiliser in the addition of nitrogen. The results showed that the values of the activity ratio for K (ARK) and potential buffering capacities (PBCK) in the no-tillage rice field were respectively 16% and 33% higher than that in the conventional tillage field. With the addition of K fertiliser, the value of exchangeable K in equilibrium (ΔK0) in the no-tillage paddy field was 67.9% greater than that in the conventional tillage field. This indicates that K fertilisation is more efficient when applied on a no-tillage paddy field. When the K fertiliser was added (49.8 kg K/ha), the application of N fertiliser at the rate of 115 and 184 kg N/ha resulted in a higher ARK value than that at the rate of 46 kg N/ha. This suggests that the simultaneous application of K and N fertiliser was able to increase exchangeable K in the soil. The application of no-tillage increased of the dry grain yield of rice (about 10%) compared with the application of conventional tillage. Meanwhile, there were significant relationships between the rice yield with the ARK and ΔK0. Moreover, the ARK was significantly correlated with K-uptake.

The aim of this study is to determine the effects of structural soil restoration on the buffering capacities of these soils, their productivity, and the efficiency of their use as a basis for sustainable management. Based on a review of literature sources and our own experimental research, the proposed article shows the possibility of improving the buffering capacities of sod-podzolic cohesive sandy soils through the use of structural amelioration as an effective measure to protect them from degradation and ensure their resilience to climate change. The use of structural ameliorants (clay and peat) in the studied soils improves the granulometric composition, has a positive effect on the pH-buffering capacities, and contributes to optimizing the moisture capacity of soil. It was found that the efficiency of the application of structural amelioration on sod-podzolic cohesive sandy soils increases significantly with the local application method (e.g., clay in a dose of 10 t/ha or a combined application of clay in a dose of 2 t/ha with lowland peat in a dose of 3 t/ha). The largest yield increase in winter wheat (27.2%) was achieved by the local application of 2 t/ha of clay combined with peat in a dose of 3 t/ha. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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For many acidic foods, including fermented and acidified vegetables, salsas, salad dressings, and others, maintaining a pH below 4.6 is a critical control to prevent botulism. The pH of acidic foods is controlled by acid content, low acid ingredients, and buffering; however, buffering of foods remains largely uncharacterized. A Matlab GUI program “BufferCapacity3” was developed to automate the process of quantifying the buffers present in foods utilizing acid/base titration data. The BufferCapacity3 program may be used to aid product development and help assure pH control and safety of acidic foods.

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.

In the current study stability of hexamethylenetetramine (HMTA) aqueous solutions without acid additives (HCl, H2SO4, citrate-phosphate buffer systems, etc.) in the range of temperatures 1.0 ÷ 20.0 С and concentrations of HMTA 0.10 ÷ 1.0 M (pH0 = 7.05 ÷ 8.25) was investigated by the spectrophotometric and potentiometric (pH and redox) methods. The obtained data indicate the complexity of the mechanism of hydrolytic transformations and acid-base interactions in the studied HMTA solutions. It was noted that the mechanism of disproportionation of HMTA in water significantly depends on temperature and its concentration. The contents of ammonium ions and formaldehyde as the final products of HMTA hydrolysis was determinated. The molar concentration of ammonium ions is no more than 5.0 % of the total content of HMTA and is several times higher than the formaldehyde concentration. It is shown that the dynamics of ammonium ions and formaldehyde accumulation does not correlate with the potentiometric curves. It was established that hydrolytic stability of HMTA aqueous solutions increases with it concentration. Recommendations for the preparation of buffer solutions based on HMTA are formulated. It is noted that it is desirable to prepare aqueous HMTA solutions of high concentration ( 0.50 M) and store them at room temperature. An algebraic equation that describes the ratio of volumes of solutions of 1.00 M (2.50 M) HMTA and 0.10 M HCl, which are required for the preparation of buffer solutions with a certain pH in the range of 4.30 ÷ 7.40 (5.00 ÷ 7.50) was obtained. Mathematical model that describes the concentration dependence of the HMTA - HCl - H2O buffer solutions capacity and the influence of dilution on the change in pH has been proposed. It is noted that the buffer capacity of the studied buffer system depends significantly on the concentration and ratio of the components in the solution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The information on the behaviour of potassium (K+) in tropical paddy rice soils, which is important for a better understanding of the plant availability of K+ is still very limited. We compared the quantity-intensity (Q/I) relationships for K+ under conventional tillage and no-tillage systems in tropical paddy fields in the absence and presence of K+ fertiliser in the addition of nitrogen. The results showed that the values of the activity ratio for K (ARK) and potential buffering capacities (PBCK) in the no-tillage rice field were respectively 16% and 33% higher than that in the conventional tillage field. With the addition of K fertiliser, the value of exchangeable K in equilibrium (ΔK0) in the no-tillage paddy field was 67.9% greater than that in the conventional tillage field. This indicates that K fertilisation is more efficient when applied on a no-tillage paddy field. When the K fertiliser was added (49.8 kg K/ha), the application of N fertiliser at the rate of 115 and 184 kg N/ha resulted in a higher ARK value than that at the rate of 46 kg N/ha. This suggests that the simultaneous application of K and N fertiliser was able to increase exchangeable K in the soil. The application of no-tillage increased of the dry grain yield of rice (about 10%) compared with the application of conventional tillage. Meanwhile, there were significant relationships between the rice yield with the ARK and ΔK0. Moreover, the ARK was significantly correlated with K-uptake. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The key performance index for the container terminals is the vessel berthing time which is highly affected by the scheduling of the different handling equipment. Proper integrated scheduling of the handling equipment is crucial, especially in automated container terminals, where all the handling equipment is automated and must be coordinated to avoid interference. One of the most challenging problems both scholars and terminal operators face is introducing a proper scheduling plan for different equipment, considering the buffer capacity of dual-trolley quay cranes (QCs) and the limited storage locations of import containers. Methods: A mathematical model is proposed to integrate the scheduling of automated yard cranes and automated guided vehicles (AGVs), considering the limited buffer capacity beneath dual-trolley QCs and the storage allocation of import containers. Results: different instances were solved to evaluate the proposed model's performance and investigate the impact of using dual-trolley QCs instead of single-trolley QCs, and the impact of using different buffer capacities. Conclusions: The results show that the model provides detailed scheduling and assigning plans for the YCs and AGVs besides allocating import containers. Additionally, the dual-trolley QCs can significantly decrease the completion time and increase AGVs' utilization compared to the single-trolley QCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Buffer capacity—the capacity of a social–ecological system to cushion stress and shocks—is often seen as an important dimension of social–ecological system resilience. While numerous studies have focused on other dimensions of resilience in social–ecological systems, literature on buffer capacity is scanty. Methods Two agroindustrial cropping systems were surveyed based on wheat in Kenya, and soybean in Bolivia. The study was carried out in 2017–2018 using mixed methods; interviews, questionnaires, and observation. Two groups of indicators were used (livelihood capitals and functional and response diversity indicators). The five livelihood capitals, and functional and response diversity indicators (number of crops rotated, landscape heterogeneity, and percentage of arable land under natural vegetation) were used. Resilience indicators were assessed using a five-point Likert scale. Results Both systems had high scores on physical, financial and human capitals, while the functional and response diversity scores were low. Both systems are found to be vulnerable to economic and climate change related shocks hence need to develop more diversified patterns to increase ecological resilience. Conclusion The two cropping systems overall capacity to withstand shocks—particularly related mainly to climate change and variability and economic shocks was extremely low for soybean system and low for wheat. The two systems were found to have low scores of functional and response diversity especially with regard to landscape heterogeneity, crop and breed diversity and percentage of vegetation cover on arable land.

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]

Protective coatings for bronze relics should adhere to the basic principles of cultural relic preservation, such as not altering the color and appearance of the artifacts, and being moderately combined with the artifacts to resist erosion due to external environments (such as water and gas). This paper presents the development of a physically crosslinked supramolecular hydrogel produced from guanidinium-based chitosan (GC). The hydrogel exhibits the excellent adsorption protection of bronze, and the addition of clay enhances the water barrier properties of the chitosan film. The supramolecular interaction between sodium polyacrylate/GC/clay confers corrosion buffering capability to the hydrogel coating in corrosive environments, and the gel coating can be self-healing at room temperature for 24 h. The fabricated nanocomposites were comprehensively characterized using various methods (Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, thermogravimetric analysis, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, etc.). The electrochemical properties of coated specimens were evaluated, and the impedance spectrum revealed a large impedance arc indicating high charge resistance, which has a corrosion resistance effect.

The wood ash-based treatment of anaerobic digestates is a novel technology to achieve the stabilization and improve the properties of organic amendments as slow-release fertilizers. The present work evaluated 3 strategies to optimize the blending of these materials under minimum acidification. The first strategy consisted in the titration of 2 samples of digestate and 2 samples of wood ash with 4 acids (H2SO4, HCl, HNO3, and CH3CHOHCOOH). The stability of the samples was inferred from the pH measurements and the simulations with Visual MINTEQ allowed to confirm some of the on-going phenomena. The bottom ash and the agro-waste digestate required less acid to reach the targeted pH of 5.5, which prevents ammonia volatilization, due to low reactivity of the coarse particles and the low ammoniacal nitrogen content, respectively. The calculation of the pH of zero point of charge further minimized the use of acid reagents, since the optimum pH for the treatment of the digestates could be 11.90 ± 0.50 and 12.43 ± 0.06, when employing the finer and coarser fractions of the ashes, respectively. In the second strategy tested, commercial doses of acids were applied to the digestates before the addition of the ashes. The sorption of ammonia onto the fly ash at pH 10.49 ± 0.76 was found to be key to preserve the nitrogen of the food waste digestate, while saving HCl or HNO3. The third strategy involved washing the ashes repeatedly with ultrapure milli-Q® water to remove the impurities and reach a pH closer to the zero point of charge without using acids. The removal of impurities and most reactive alkali elements (e.g. sodium and potassium) from the ashes led to approximately 5 % lower pH and higher carbon, calcium, and magnesium contents, which could enhance sorption processes upon combination of these materials with the digestates. The integration of washing the wood ashes and commercial acidification of anaerobic digestates would provide the best conditions for the preparation of stable blends. This procedure also minimizes the use of acids, which disrupts the closed-loop valorization of these materials.

This study aimed to find the optimal thickness combination of the two-layered absorbing system combinated with an expanded polystyrene (EPS) cushion and a soil layer in a steel shed under dynamic loadings. The coupled Smooth Particle Hydrodynamic method (SPH) and Finite Element Method (FEM) were introduced to simulate the impact of the rockfall against the steel shed with a two-layer absorbing system. By comparing the numerical results with test data, the coupled numerical model was well validated. Through the verified numerical model, a series of numerical experiments were carried out to find the optimal combination for the two-layered absorbing system. The values of the EPS layer thickness as a percentage of the total thickness were set as 0% (P1), 20% (P2), 40% (P3), 60% (P4), 80% (P5), and 100% (P6). The results show that the coupled FEM–SPH method was an effective method to simulate rockfall impacting the steel rock shed; P4 (0.6 m thickness EPS cushion and 0.9 m thickness soil layer) was the most efficient combination, which can significantly reduce the structural displacement response by 43%. A two-layered absorbing system can effectively absorb about 90% of the total energy. The obtained results yield scientifically sound guidelines for further research on the design of steel sheds against rockfall. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pH changes that occur during the fermentation of vegetables by lactic acid bacteria depend on the production of weak acids and on the buffering of the fermentation medium. Undefined buffering components of fermentation media make estimates of pH from acid production difficult. The objective of this research was to develop buffer models for a model cucumber fermentation brine system linking pH changes to acid concentrations. A novel titration method was used to measure buffer capacity in cucumber juice medium made from three grades of pickling cucumbers based on diameter. Fermentation of juice made from cucumbers of different sizes resulted in differences in fermentation biochemistry. The results of modeling indicated that the pH of the medium after 24 and 48 h of fermentation by heterolactic Leuconostoc mesenteroides and homolactic Lactiplantibacillus pentosus could be predicted from acid concentrations based on the measured buffer capacity of the corresponding unfermented medium. The differences for all observed and predicted pH values of the fermentation samples, based on measured acid concentrations, had a root mean square error of 0.064 pH units. The buffer models included a quantitative measure of the effect on pH of the malolactic reaction caused by the lactic acid bacteria. These models may have application for assessing the influence of a variety of lactic acid bacteria buffering reactions on pH and fermentation ecology by linking pH to fermentation acid concentrations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polyelectrolyte microcapsules are used in the development of new forms of targeted delivery systems, self-healing materials, sensors, and smart materials. Nevertheless, their buffer capacity has not been practically studied, although that characteristic makes it possible to estimate the change in the state of protonation of the entire polyelectrolyte system. This is necessary both for creating a buffer barrier system for pH-sensitive compounds (metals, enzymes, polyelectrolytes, drugs) and for the correct interpretation of the results of research and studying of the PMC structure. The buffer capacity of a PMC can be affected by the concentration of microcapsules in solution and the number of shell layers since the listed parameters affect other physicochemical properties of the PMC shell. This includes, for example, the electrical conductivity, permeability (of ions), osmotic pressure, charge density, etc. In this regard, we studied the change in the buffer capacity of polyelectrolyte microcapsules depending on their concentration and the number of shell layers. As a result, it was found that with an increasing concentration of microcapsules, the buffering capacity of the PMC increases, but at the same time, in the pH range from 4 to 5.5, the calculated buffering capacity of 1 billion capsules decreases with increasing their concentration. This effect may be associated with a decrease in the available -NH2 groups of the PMC's shell. In addition, it was found that the main contribution to the buffer capacity of a PMC is made by the entire shell of the microcapsule and not just its surface. At the same time, the buffer capacity of the capsules has non-linear growth with an increase in the number of PMC shell layers. It is presumably associated either with a decrease in the polyelectrolyte layer with an increase in their number or with a decrease in the permeability of hydrogen protons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The influence of alkalinity and other factors on the content of microelements in soils developed on marine deposits is studied. Traditional indicators of exchangeable sodium percentage do not demonstrate the ability to retain microelements, but one can see a close direct correlation between the content of macroelements and the retention of microelements. The efficiency of this group is increased if we take into account the concentration of total Na. The element compositions of soil were determined by neutron activation method. The results show that the Na-related alkalinity of soil can enhance the role of the main macroelements and increase the dispersibility of particles and their aggregating capacity relative to the microelements. The microelement composition was also determined in Gleyic Solonchaks using the Zn concentration due to the anionogenic composition of gley. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of agrotechnical elements (crop rotation, fertilisation, irrigation) on maize yield and various chemical characteristics of the soil (pHH2O, pHKCl, hydrolytic acidity (y1)) were examined in a long-term experiment (established in 1983) on calcareous Chernozem in the Hajdúság region of Hungary. The yield obtained in 2019 showed the favourable water supply of the crop year and outstanding nutrient utilisation of maize. In the control (non-fertilised) treatments, maize yield was 8 t/ha in monoculture, 11 t/ha in biculture and 12 t/ha in triculture, while the highest yield obtained with the optimum fertiliser treatment increased to 13, 13.5 and 14 t/ha, respectively. In the long-term experiment established 35 years ago, the pH values of the soil greatly decreased in comparison to the initial value. The following ranges were observed in monoculture: 5.57-6.49 (pHH2O), 4.69-5.34 (pHKCl), in biculture: 5.22-6.62 (pHH2O) and 4.36-5.68 (pHKCl), and in triculture: 5.46-6.29 (pHH2O), and 4.56-5.24 (pHKCl). Hydrolytic acidity values (mono y1 = 7.75-14.75, bi y1 = 11.50-23.00, tri y1 = 10.13-18.38) showed strong soil acidity. In the long-term experiment, a moderate (0.512xx, LSD0.01=xx) correlation between fertilisation and yield and a moderate (0.397xx) correlation between crop rotation and yield could be established on Chernozem. A moderately negative (pHH2O = -0.594xx, pHKCl = -0.543xx) correlation was found between the yield and pH values, while a moderately positive (y1 = 0.409xx) correlation was found between the hydrolytic acidity and yield.

Modelling the lime requirement (LR) is a fast and efficient way to determine the amount of lime required to obtain a pH that can overcome the adverse effects caused by soil acidification. This study aimed to model the LR based on the properties of soil and lime. A total of 17 acidic soils and 39 lime samples underwent soil–lime incubation in the laboratory. The predictive equations for the LR (t ha−1) were modelled using ∆pH (the difference between the target pH and initial pH), the neutralizing value (NV, mmol kg−1) of lime, soil pH, soil clay content (%), soil bulk density (BD, g cm−3), and the depth of soil (h, cm) as the factors in an exponential equation. The generic predictive equation, LR=∆pH×e−3.88−0.069×NV+0.51×pH+0.025×Clay×BD×h, was validated as the most reliable model under field conditions. Simplified predictive equations for different soil textures when limed with quicklime and limestone are also provided. Furthermore, the LR proportions provided by hydrated lime, quicklime, limestone, and dolomite in commercially available lime can be expressed as 0.58:0.64:0.97:1.00. This study provides a novel and robust model for predicting the amount of lime product containing components with different neutralizing abilities that are required to neutralize soils with a wide range of properties. It is of great significance to agronomic activities and soil remediation projects.