Water Retention Research Articles

Embedded Resistance as a Technique to Monitor Concrete Curing.

The use of membrane-forming curing compounds on fresh concrete has been widely adopted by many States' Departments of Transportation as it is feasible where there is a deficiency of water, on sloping surfaces where curing with water is challenging, and in cases where large areas like pavement have to be cured. However, the evaluation of the curing compound application effectiveness is difficult because most of the evaluation test methods are not performed during the early age of the concrete. Moreover, the ASTM C156 standards test of water retention for the qualification of curing compounds has met criticism as the moisture retention is performed only on the mortar specimens, with a fixed application rate and curing condition. Therefore, in this study, the embedded resistance technique was used as a test replacement for the moisture retention test to assess concrete curing. The findings from this study showed that a correlation can be found between the moisture retention test and the embedded resistance test. Based on the findings, the embedded resistance test could be a suitable replacement for the moisture loss test, because the test is much simpler and quicker to be performed both in the lab and in the field.

Chitosan xerogel embedded with green synthesized cerium oxide nanoparticle: An effective controlled release fertilizer for improved cabbage growth

With the growing awareness on the adverse effects of conventional fertilizers; the use of sustainable and controlled release fertilizers has garnered much significance. In the present study, we report the synthesis of chitosan-benzaldehyde Schiff base xerogel incorporated with green synthesized cerium oxide nanoparticle using Psidium guajava leaves extract as a sustainable fertilizer. Spherical CeO2 NPs having an average particle size of 15.3 nm and zeta potential of – 39.9 mV was obtained. The urea-loaded nanocomposite xerogel (CsB@U/CeO2) was examined for cabbage growth. The water retention capacity extended for >2 weeks. A controlled release profile for urea was accomplished from CsB@U/CeO2 for a period extending for 30 days. The kinetics assay suggested that presence of CeO2 NPs asserted a greater role in urea-controlled release from the CsB@U/CeO2 nanocomposite hydrogel owing to polymer relaxation. The growth parameters of cabbages such as head height, diameter, fresh head weight, head circumference was enhanced in plants fertilized by CsB@U/CeO2 as compared to urea. Furthermore, the phenolic content, free radical scavenging activity, protein content, sugar and flavonoid content were also found higher in CsB@U/CeO2 fertilized plants. This study puts forth CsB@U/CeO2 xerogel can be potentially harnessed as an alternative to urea in sustainable agriculture.

Suppression of Zinc Dendrite Growth by Enhanced Polyacrylamide Gel Electrolytes in Zinc-Ion Battery.

Aqueous zinc-ion batteries have become a promising energy storage battery due to high theoretical specific capacity, abundant zinc resources and low cost. However, zinc dendrite growth and hydrogen evolution reaction limit their application. This study aims to improve the cycling performance and stability of aqueous zinc-ion batteries by improving the gel electrolyte. Polyacrylamide (PAM) is selected as the base material of the gel electrolyte, which has good stability and safety, but the water retention capacity, Zn2+ migration number, and ionic conductivity of PAM are low, which affects the long-term stability of the battery. In response to these problems, we optimized PAM by chemical cross-linking method, and formed an enhanced PAM gel by adding disodium citrate dihydrate (SC). Experimental results show that the introduction of an appropriate amount of SC in the enhanced PAM gel electrolyte can significantly improve its electrochemical performance. The zinc-ion symmetric battery achieved a stable cycle of more than 2100 hours at a current density of 0.5 mA cm-2, which is mainly attributed to the inhibitory effect of the enhanced PAM gel on zinc dendrite growth and hydrogen evolution reaction. This study provides a new direction for the development and application of flexible zinc-ion batteries.

Hydrogel Containing Propolis: Physical Characterization and Evaluation of Biological Activities for Potential Use in the Treatment of Skin Lesions.

Skin injury affects the integrity of the skin structure and induces the wound healing process, which is defined by a well-coordinated series of cellular and molecular reactions that aim to recover or replace the injured tissue. Hydrogels are a group of promising biomaterials that are able to incorporate active ingredients for use as dressings. This study aimed to synthesize hydrogels with and without propolis extract and evaluate their physical characteristics and biological activities in vitro for potential use as active dressings in the treatment of skin lesions. The antifungal [Candida albicans (C. albicans) and Candida tropicalis (C. tropicalis)] and antibacterial [Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), Pseudomonas aeruginosas (P. aeruginosas) and Escherichia coli (E. coli)] activity was assessed by the microdilution method in plates and antioxidant potential by the reduction of the phosphomolybdate complex. The hydrogels showed good water absorption capacity, high solubility, and high gel fraction, as well as good porosity, water retention, and vapor transmission rates. They revealed a totally amorphous structure. The extract and the hydrogels containing the propolis extract (1.0% and 2.5%) did not inhibit fungal growth. However, they showed antibacterial activity against strains of S. aureus and P. aeruginosas. Regarding the E. coli strain, only the extract inhibited its growth. It showed good antioxidant activity by the evaluation method used. Therefore, the hydrogels containing propolis extract can be a promising alternative with antibacterial and antioxidant action for use as dressings for the treatment of skin lesions.

Gel polymer electrolytes containing SiO2 spheres with tuned sizes to increase rechargeability of quasi-solid-state Zn-air batteries

Rechargeable zinc–air batteries (RZABs) with high energy densities and low costs have attracted tremendous interest for meeting the ever-growing demand for flexible and portable applications. In these batteries, the quasi-solid/solid-state electrolyte plays a critical role in the battery performance, such as the cycling performance rate and power output. In this study, porous poly (vinyl alcohol) (PVA) and poly (acrylic acid) (PAA) composite gel polymer electrolytes (GPEs) were modified by incorporating SiO2 as a water retainer. For this reason, SiO2 spheres of different sizes were synthesized by varying the temperature (5, 20, 60, and 80 °C) and reaction time (2, 6, 18, and 24 h). According to the SEM micrographs, the average size ranged from 107 to 710 nm depending on the conditions. The porous PVA/PAA–SiO2 GPEs obtained by selecting three SiO2 sizes (107, 425, and 630 nm) exhibited higher water retention capability than the unmodified GPE. Among them, the GPE with SiO2–630 nm displayed the highest battery performance (1.46 V, 85 mWcm−2 @ 0.8 V). This was achieved using CoMn2O4 spinel as a bifunctional electrocatalyst, with a catalyst loading of 2 mg cm−2. The quasi-solid-state RZAB displayed twice the rechargeability of the RZAB assembled with Pt/C+IrO2/C (120 vs. 62 cycles). According to post-mortem tests, this can be related to the improved water retention, the decrease in the size of the formed Zn dendrites, and the stability of the bifunctional material. Thus, fine-tuning of the electrocatalyst/electrolyte interface strongly affects the rechargeability.

Topic: Physicochemical, functional and antioxidant properties of cricket protein powders produced by microwave-assisted spouted bed drying

The study examined the quality of cricket protein powder (CPP) dried using microwave-assisted spouted bed drying (MSBD) and oven drying (OD). Two types of crickets, Acheta domesticus (AD) and Gryllus bimaculatus (GB), were used. Results showed that MSBD produced CPP with higher protein and mineral content and lower fat compared to OD (p < 0.05). MSBD also enhanced functional qualities like solubility, foaming capacity, emulsion ability, water retention capacity, and digestibility. CPP treated with MSBD exhibited significantly increased phenolic content and antioxidant activity (p < 0.05). Cricket species also influenced CPP quality. MSBD-produced protein from AD had a lighter color and superior functional qualities, including solubility, foam stability, and protein digestibility. Conversely, GB-produced MSBD protein showed higher protein and calcium levels, as well as better foam capacity. The faster and more even heating of MSBD, along with its shorter drying time, helps preserve heat-sensitive nutrients and bioactive components. This explains the higher quantities of protein, minerals, phenolics, and antioxidants in MSBD samples. Overall, this study shows that MSBD is a promising way to make high-quality protein ingredient from a sustainable insect protein source that have better antioxidant properties and better functionality.

The microscopic reinforcement mechanism of Zhuhai soft soil by cement-based stabilizer: From microscopic characterization to molecular dynamics simulation

In this study, Zhuhai soft soil is taken as the research object, and it is reinforced by pure Qiancheng (Q.C.) stabilizer, pure cement, cement and Q.C. crosslinking stabilizers. The hydration heat, XRD, thermogravimetric analysis, and infrared spectrum were used to analyze the types and amounts of hydration products of reinforced soil. Additionally, SEM and low-field NMR were used to observe the micro-morphology and analyze the pore distribution of solidified soil. The results show that the pure Q.C. stabilizer can only produce Ca(OH)2 at an early stage; The hydration degree of pure cement soil is not high, and there only is a fraction of C-S-H and Ca(OH)2 generated in soil. However, the chemical reaction in crosslinking stabilizer soil is intense, generating more ettringite (ETT) and C-S-H. The crystal structure of ETT contains crystallized water, which requires more binding water in soft soil to generate ETT. Besides, ETT can fill the pores in soil particles and reduce the porosity of solidified soil. The water absorption properties of Na-montmorillonite (MMT) and ETT are studied by molecular dynamics simulation (MD) to explore the microscopic solidification mechanism. The MD results indicate that the water contact angles of MMT and ETT are 25°and 8°, respectively. ETT/water are mainly connected by hydrogen bonds, while Na-O bonds bound Na-MMT/water. Furthermore, the adhesion work between ETT and water is 3.40 times MMT/water, which proves that ETT has a more stable water retention capability. Based on the experiments and MD results it is concluded that the ETT is the key to reinforcing soft soil. Understanding the mechanism of soil–water interaction in the process of reinforcement will be beneficial to put forward the reinforcement scheme for soil and optimize the proportion design of the cement-based solidified system.

The Productive and physico-chemical performance at two seasons of the year in trout (oncorhynchus mykiss)

The objective of the research was to evaluate the productive and physicochemical performance of trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) in two seasons of the year. The months of April-June for the rainy season and July-September for the dry season in the Junín region of Peru were considered. The productive performance variables were: length, live weight, carcass weight and yield; on the other hand, the physicochemical variable (pH, water retention, humidity, ash, ethereal extract and protein). The results indicate that no differences (p&gt;0.05) were found between the rainy and dry seasons for: length (cm), moisture (%), ash (%), ethereal extract (%) and protein (%). On the contrary, differences (p&lt;0.05) were found between the rainy and dry seasons for live weight (g) with 239.37 g and 186.30 g respectively, as well as differences for carcass weight (g) in the rainy (186.30 g) and dry (140.77 g) seasons; likewise, differences were found for carcass yield (%), with 88.17 % and 86.89 % for the rainy and dry seasons, respectively. It is evident that in the rainy season there is an increase in their productive behavior. In terms of physicochemical performance, both seasons do not influence the chemical characteristics

Phase behavior and synergistic gelation of scallop (Patinopecten yessoensis) male gonad hydrolysates and gellan gum driven by pH.

Previous studies have investigated complexation and coacervation of scallop Patinopecten yessoensis male gonad hydrolysates (SMGHs) and polysaccharides influenced by pH and blending ratio. It has been found that SMGHs/polysaccharide composite shows better gel properties under strongly acidic conditions. Thus, the complexation and coacervation of SMGHs and gellan gum (GG) were investigated via turbidimetric titration at different pH values (1-12) and biopolymer blending ratios (9.5:0.5-6:4). Both pHc and pHφ1 exhibited ratio-independent behavior with constant values at approximately pH 5.8 and pH 3.8, respectively, dividing SMGHs/GG blends into three phases named mixed polymers, soluble complexes and insoluble coacervates, respectively. Overall, SMGHs and GG exhibited synergistic gelation under neutral and acidic conditions, with the initial storage modulus (G') increasing by approximately 42.5-, 573.7- and 3421-fold and 97.7-, 550.3- and 0.5-fold, respectively, at pH 7, 5 and 3, compared with SMGHs and GG. As pH decreased from 7 to 3, the initial G' and viscosity η values of SMGHs/GG gels increased by 20.1- and 2.3-fold, respectively, exhibiting the greatest increase in gel strength. Moreover, the free water in the SMGHs/GG system significantly shifted toward lower relaxation times attributed to the immobilization of the outer hydration layers. SMGHs/GG gels in the insoluble phase exhibited denser networks and rougher surfaces, supporting the enhanced rheological properties and water retention capacity of the gel. This work provides a basic foundation for the development of pH-driven SMGHs/GG gelation by examining complexation and coacervation processes. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.

Anti-Obesity Effects of a Collagen with Low Digestibility and High Swelling Capacity: A Human Randomized Control Trial

Background/Objectives: Collagen is a protein formed by very long amino acid chains. When conveniently treated, it can incorporate water into the net, thus increasing its volume and mass. The present work aimed to evaluate the potential anti-obesity effects of bovine collagen that has been technologically treated to increase its water retention capacity in an acid pH medium, with the objective of inducing satiation. Methods: Collagen’s digestibility was tested with a pepsin digestion test. Its swelling capacity was tested in an acid pH medium simulating gastric conditions. Postprandial levels of ghrelin in response to collagen supplementation were tested in rats. In a randomized control trial, 64 subjects with overweight/obesity were allocated in two groups: supplemented daily with two protein bars enriched with collagen (20 g per day) for 12 weeks, or control group. Anthropometric and biochemical measurements were assessed in all the participants. Results: This collagen showed a low digestibility (&lt;60%) and high swelling capacity (&gt;1900%) in vitro. In humans with overweight and obesity, this collagen significantly reduced body weight, body mass index (BMI), systolic blood pressure (SBP), and fatty liver index (FLI) and increased fat-free mass when compared with the control group. A significant reduction in the sarcopenic index; total, troncular, and visceral fat (measured by DEXA); and serum leptin levels were observed in the collagen group at the end of the intervention, with no differences with respect to controls. Collagen reduced the sensation of hunger and increased fullness and satisfaction. In male Wistar rats, collagen decreased postprandial blood ghrelin levels. Conclusions: Collagen supplementation (20 g per day for 12 weeks) reduced body weight, BMI, waist circumference, fat mass, FLI, and SBP in humans with overweight and obesity, which might be related to the increased sensation of fullness and satisfaction reported by the volunteers after the intake.

Research Progress on the Effect and Mechanism of Superchilling Preservation Technology on Meat Quality Control.

During storage and transportation, meat is susceptible to the effects of microorganisms, endogenous enzymes, and oxygen, leading to issues such as moisture loss, spoilage, and deterioration. Superchilling, as a preservation method that combines the benefits of refrigeration and freezing, can effectively slow the growth and reproduction of microorganisms, control protein and lipid oxidation, reduce water loss, and maintain the quality and sensory properties of meat. This paper reviews the current application status of superchilling technology in meat preservation, focusing on the mechanisms of ice crystal formation, water retention, tenderness preservation, protein and fat oxidation control, and microbial growth inhibition under superchilling conditions. Additionally, it summarizes the research progress on the combined application of superchilling with emerging technologies such as electric fields, magnetic fields, and electron beams in meat preservation and explores its potential and future prospects for improving meat quality. The aim is to provide scientific evidence and technical support for the application of superchilling technology in enhancing meat quality.

Optimization of Ultrasonic Extraction, Functional Properties, and Antioxidant Activity of Naematelia aurantialba Polysaccharides

AbstractNaematelia aurantialba (N. aurantialba) is a fungus rich in polysaccharides with medicinal and edible properties. Polysaccharides are the main active components of N. aurantialba; however, their biological activities and functional properties have not been widely explored. In this study, the ultrasonic extraction process for N. aurantialba polysaccharides (NAP) is optimized, and the physicochemical, functional, and antioxidant activities of the homogeneous fraction (NAP) are investigated. The optimal extraction conditions are a liquid–solid ratio of 50 mL g−1, ultrasonic power of 430 W, ultrasonic time of 32 min, resulting in an extraction rate of N. aurantialba polysaccharides of 48.68% ± 0.83%. NAP has a molecular weight of 915 kDa. The monosaccharide composition of NAP is as follows: mannose (59.04% ± 0.12%), xylose (23.89% ± 0.03%), glucuronic acid (14.07% ± 0.24%), galacturonic acid (2.12% ± 0.02%), and glucose (0.76% ± 0.02%). NAP exhibites water and oil retention capacities of 14.62 ± 0.25 g g−1 and 23.73 ± 0.85 g g−1, respectively. Furthermore, NAP demonstrates favorable moisture absorption and retention properties. The results show that NAP has a significantly stronger antioxidant effect, as demonstrated by its concentration‐dependent scavenging of ABTS, DPPH, and hydroxyl radicals.

Soil Organic Carbon May Decline Under Climate Change: A Case Study in Mexican Forests

Soil organic carbon is essential for ecosystem health, influencing water retention, soil fertility and biodiversity. However, climate change and deforestation are reducing SOC globally. This study models and projects changes in the SOC of Mexican forest soils under different climate scenarios. Over 100 models were developed relating SOC to the Lang index (precipitation and temperature), altitude, slope, bulk density, texture and soil depth. The results indicate that SOC can be effectively modelled to assess scenarios for decision making. The highest SOC levels were found in tropical rainforests and mesophyll forests and the lowest in broadleaved forests of the Sonoran plain. Climate change is projected to reduce SOC in forest ecosystems by up to 11%, especially in temperate forests. Conversely, mesophyll forests are expected to experience a slight increase in SOC of 3% due to rising temperatures and changing precipitation patterns. This decline could lead to increased HGH and reduced carbon storage capacity. This study highlights the need for sustainable management practices and multidisciplinary research to mitigate these impacts and emphasises the importance of comprehensive strategies for long-term environmental sustainability.

Preparation and Charcterisation of Acetate Cellulose Laurate Ester in Sodium Acetate/Zinc Chloride Systems

The objective of this study was to explore the preparation and characterisation of acetate cellulose laurate ester in sodium acetate/zinc chloride systems. The cellulose used in the study was obtained from oil palm empty fruit bunch and oil palm frond. The characterization of both the isolated cellulose and the acetate cellulose laurate ester was carried out using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Differential thermogravimetric (DTG), and Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The FT-IR analysis of the acetate cellulose laurate ester revealed the presence of C=O, confirming its modification. The crystallinity of the isolated cellulose and the acetate cellulose laurate ester was found to be 67-72% and 51-54%, respectively. The thermal stability of the isolated and modified cellulose esters was found to be 360-340 ℃ and 380-365 ℃, respectively. The solubility test showed that the prepared acetate cellulose laurate esters were soluble in different solvents. However, this study found that the synthesis of acetate cellulose laurate ester in an aqueous medium is not feasible. The improved hydrophobic character, good thermal stability, water retention value, and excellent solubility in different solvents of the acetate cellulose laurate ester reported in this study make it a potential material for applications in bioplastics, and packaging materials.

Monitoring Water Depth and Seepage Rates in Pitcher Irrigation for Sustainable Crop Water Management

Pitcher irrigation is an ancient yet effective method for delivering water directly to plant root zones, particularly in regions facing water scarcity. The main objective of this study is to evaluate the efficiency of pitcher irrigation in conserving water and supporting brinjal crop growth. This study investigates the efficiency and dynamics of a pitcher irrigation system in supplying water to brinjal crops, utilizing nine porous clay pitchers buried near the plants. Water depth in the pitchers was monitored from March 1 to March 22, 2024, at three intervals daily. Initial water levels of 15 cm were recorded on March 1, followed by gradual declines in water depth over time, with some pots showing rapid depletion, particularly during peak daylight hours. Pot 4 exhibited the most significant water loss, likely due to increased soil absorption or higher crop water demand, while Pots 1 and 3 showed more consistent water retention. The study revealed significant variation in seepage rates, with higher water loss during the day, particularly in the afternoon, compared to slower overnight seepage. These findings emphasize the need for careful irrigation management, including tailored refill schedules, to ensure uniform water availability and prevent moisture deficits. The results demonstrate that pitcher irrigation can effectively sustain crop growth, but its efficiency depends on continuous monitoring and adjustments based on local conditions.

Green Solutions: The Impact of Agroforestry on Climate Change Resilience- A Review

The effect of agroforestry systems on resilience to climate change, highlighting their function in improving biodiversity and reducing environmental degradation. Agroforestry offers creative ways to enhance soil health, trap carbon, and boost agricultural output while benefiting communities socioeconomically by incorporating trees into agricultural settings. Stakeholders may improve food security, rebuild ecosystems, and support the livelihoods of marginalized communities by supporting agroforestry techniques. This assessment promotes greater funding for agroforestry implementation and research, which may encourage international cooperation. Adopting eco-friendly solutions, such as agroforestry, will be essential to accomplishing sustainable development objectives and building a resilient future for the world community as climate threats worsen. Additionally, by maximising the use of natural resources, agroforestry practices lessen the burden on forests and aid in the restoration of damaged regions. Climate change poses tremendous difficulties to global agriculture, affecting livelihoods, food security, and ecosystem stability. Agroforestry is a promising integrated land management technique that combines agricultural and forestry practices to lessen the effects of climate change. This summary provides an overview of the vital roles that agroforestry plays in mitigating and adapting to climate change. In order to adapt to climate change, agroforestry offers several benefits, including increased agricultural productivity, improved soil fertility, and improved water retention

Targeting Sodium in Heart Failure.

A dominant event determining the course of heart failure (HF) includes the disruption of the delicate sodium (Na+) and water balance leading to (Na+) and water retention and edema formation. Although incomplete decongestion adversely affects outcomes, it is unknown whether interventions directly targeting (Na+), such as strict dietary (Na+) restriction, intravenous hypertonic saline, and diuretics, reverse this effect. As a result, it is imperative to implement (Na+)-targeting interventions in selected HF patients with established congestion on top of quadruple therapy with angiotensin receptor neprilysin inhibitor, β-adrenergic receptor blocker, mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist, and sodium glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitor, which dramatically improves outcomes. The limited effectiveness of (Na+)-targeting treatments may be partly due to the fact that the current metrics of HF severity have a limited capacity of foreseeing and averting episodes of congestion and guiding (Na+)-targeting treatments, which often leads to dysnatremias, adversely affecting outcomes. Recent evidence suggests that spot urinary sodium measurements may be used as a guide to monitor (Na+)-targeting interventions both in chronic and acute HF. Further, the classical (2)-compartment model of (Na+) storage has been displaced by the (3)-compartment model emphasizing the non-osmotic accumulation of (Na+), chiefly in the skin. 23(Na+) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) enables the accurate and reliable quantification of tissue (Na+). Another promising approach enabling tissue (Na+) monitoring is based on wearable devices employing ion-selective electrodes for electrolyte detection, including (Na+) and (Cl-). Undoubtably, further studies using 23(Na+)-MRI technology and wearable sensors are required to learn more about the clinical significance of tissue (Na+) storage and (Na+)-related mechanisms of morbidity and mortality in HF.

Conceptual and Applied Aspects of Water Retention Tests on Tailings Using Columns

The water retention capacity of porous materials is crucial in various geotechnical and environmental engineering applications such as slope stability analysis, landfill management, and mining operations. Filtered tailings stacks are considered an alternative to traditional tailings dams. Nevertheless, the mechanical behaviour and stability of the material under different water content conditions are of concern because these stacks can reach considerable heights. The water behaviour in these structures is poorly understood, particularly the effects of the water content on the stability and potential for liquefaction of the stacks. This study aims to investigate the water retention and flow characteristics of compacted iron ore tailings in high columns to better understand their hydromechanical behaviour. The research used 5 m high columns filled with iron ore tailings from the Quadrilátero Ferrífero region in Minas Gerais, Brazil. The columns were prepared in layers, compacted, and instrumented with moisture content sensors and suction sensors to monitor the water movement during various stages of saturation, drainage, infiltration, and evaporation. The sensors provided consistent data and revealed that the tailings exhibited high drainage capacity. The moisture content and suction profiles were effectively established over time and revealed the dynamic water retention behaviour. The comparison of the data with the theoretical soil water retention curve (SWRC) demonstrated a good correlation which indicates that there was no hysteresis in the material response. The study concludes that the column setup effectively captures the water retention and flow characteristics of compacted tailings and provides valuable insights for the hydromechanical analysis of filtered tailings stacks. These findings can significantly help improve numerical models, calibrate material parameters, and contribute to the safer and more efficient management of tailings storage facilities.

Bulk Density and pH Relationships on Sandy Soils in Three Florida Fields

Bulk density is an important physical property of soils as it impacts the airflow, water retention, and structure of a soil. pH is a chemical property that affects the availability of nutrients in the soil. Both properties directly affect crop health and production and are often measured as indicators of soil health and crop suitability. Previous studies on this relationship between bulk density and pH focus on silty soils, and there is limited information on relationships between pH and physical soil properties on the sandier type of soils that are prevalent in Florida. This study aimed to investigate potential relationships between bulk density and pH in sandy soils by sampling the soils of three different crop production systems in north-central Florida: a silage corn field in Citra, peanut field in Chiefland, and turfgrass plot in Gainesville. Each of the sites were treated with pH-altering treatments, including ammonium nitrate, gypsum, and lime. While the soils in the turfgrass plot showed no observable relationship between bulk density and pH, the soils in the silage corn and peanut fields did show a slight relationship. In the peanut and silage corn fields, each plot was sampled both within the crop rows and between crop rows. In these fields, samples taken in the root area showed significant differences in pH (p &lt; 0.001) and bulk density (p &lt; 0.01) from the area between rows. Understanding relationships in the soil environment is important to maximize crop health and production, therefore further research is needed in this area.

The female athlete—reliability of body composition analyses during the female menstrual cycle in young women without hormonal contraception

Abstract Background The menstrual cycle (MC) is characterized by rapid changes of female sexual hormone concentrations with consecutive water retention alterations, which in turn might affect underlying parameters of body composition (BC) analyses in terms of air-displacement plethysmography (ADP) or bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA). Objective The purpose of this study was to evaluate BC and the assessment’s reproducibility and reliability during the MC. Methods In a repeated measures design with four time points (t1–t4) and a double testing within 10 min at t1 (t1.1–t1.2) covering a complete MC (t1.1: start of menstruation [t1.2: double testing], t2: late follicular, t3: ovulation, t4: mid-luteal), 17 eumenorrheic women without hormonal contraception (age: 24.8 [18.5–33.1] years, body mass index [BMI]: 23.3 [18.0–27.8] kg/m2) were examined by means of ADP (BODPOD GS‑X, Cosmed, Rome, Italy) and BIA (mBCA 515/514, Seca, Hamburg, Germany) in order to determine reliability (intraclass correlation [ICC2.1]) and within-subjects variability (standard error of the measurement [SEM], minimal detectable change [MDC], coefficient of variation [CV%]) covering the complete MC (t1–t4). Results The CV% showed small variations ranging between 0.8 and 2.7%, except for the BIA reactance (4.2%). Reliability was excellent (ICC2.1 &gt; 0.9) for all BC parameters and all intervals (t1.1 vs. t1.2, t2, t3, and t4, respectively), except for the reactance (0.7 &gt; ICC2.1 &gt; 0.55). Conclusion Reproducibility and reliability of BC analyses were not influenced by the MC. Thus, BC of female athletes may be determined irrespective of the phase of their MC. Future research might cover more than one MC or consider women with hormonal contraception or males serving as controls.