bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Energy, Exergy, and Economic (3E) Analysis of Boil-Off Gas Re-Liquefaction Systems Using LNG Cold Energy for LNG-Fueled Ships
Authors: Kim Jun-Seong , Kim Do-Yeop
Published: March 2023

Liquefied natural gas (LNG)-fueled ships have the effect of reducing most pollutants, which is advantageous for responding to strict regulations. Because boil-off gas (BOG) is generated in the LNG storage tank of an LNG-fueled ship, a BOG re-liquefaction system is required. The representative systems for LNG-fueled ships were proposed by Kwak and Shen, but their exergy efficiencies were only 19.6% and 24.9%, respectively. To improve the system, this paper proposes novel BOG re-liquefaction systems combined with the fuel gas supply system. The systems utilize LNG cold energy in the BOG stream and N2 reverse Brayton cycle, respectively. The proposed systems were simulated using a commercial program and were optimized using a genetic algorithm. The results of energy, exergy, and economic (3E) analyses performed for comprehensive evaluation of the proposed system show that the system in which LNG cold energy is applied to the BOG stream has the best performance. Specific energy consumption, exergy efficiency, and total annual costs of this system were improved by up to 78.6%, 69.2%, and 68.2%, respectively, compared to those of the existing systems. The overwhelmingly superior system is expected to greatly contribute to the improvement of the BOG re-liquefaction system for LNG-fueled ships.
Investigating Biochemical and Histopathological Responses between Raspberries and Aculeastrum americanum
Authors: Dias Márcia Gonçalves , Spósito Marcel Bellato , Tessmer Magda Andréia , Appezzato-da-Glória Beatriz
Published: March 2023

Late leaf rust is a fungal disease in raspberries caused by Aculeastrum americanum (Farl.) M. Scholler U. Braun (syn. Thekopsora americana (Farl.) Aime McTaggart) leading to early defoliation and yield losses. Red raspberries (Rubus idaeus L.) are susceptible to this pathogen, although this susceptibility varies among cultivars. In contrast, black raspberries were previously reported to be more resistant (Rubus occidentalis L.) and immune (Rubus niveus Thunb.) to this pathogen, raising their importance in plant breeding programs. However, what features make them respond differently to the same pathogen? In this study, we characterize for the first time the pre- and post-formed structural and biochemical defense mechanisms of R. idaeus cv. Autumn Bliss, R. occidentalis and R. niveus. Ultrastructural and histopathological analyses were used to uncover the interactions between these raspberries and A. americanum. The ultrastructural results indicate that the pathogen germinates on both leaf surfaces but can only form appressoria on the stomata. Although the three raspberry species were infected and colonized by A. americanum, a clear difference in susceptibility was observed between them. A compact mesophyll, pre- and post-formed phenolic compounds, and post-formed pectic compounds were the main plant defense mechanisms against fungal colonization. These findings provide new information about raspberries’ defense mechanisms in response to A. americanum and elucidate the interactions occurring in these pathosystems.
The AMP-Activated Protein Kinase (AMPK) Positively Regulates Lysine Biosynthesis Induced by Citric Acid in Flammulina filiformis
Authors: Fan Hao , Ge Feng , Wu Tao , Liu Yongzhi , Tian Li , Liu Yueqian , Xiang Taobo , Yu Hanshou , Shi Liang , He Qin , Ren Ang , Jiang Ailiang
Published: March 2023

Flammulina filiformis, the most produced edible mushroom species in China, is rich in lysine. Further enhancing its lysine biosynthesis is vital for improving its quality in industrialized cultivation. Citric acid induction significantly increases both the biomass and growth rate of F. filiformis hyphae, as well as the lysine content. The genes encoding enzymes in the lysine biosynthesis pathway were detected under the optimal induction, revealing that the expression levels of hcs, hac, and hah were 2.67, 1.97, and 1.90 times greater, respectively, relative to the control, whereas no significant difference was seen for hdh, aat, sr, and shd, and the expression of aar decreased. Furthermore, the transcriptional levels of Ampk, GCN2, GCN4, and TOR were found significantly upregulated, with the most upregulated, Ampk, reaching a level 42.68 times greater than that of the control, while the phosphorylation of AMPK rose by nearly 54%. In AMPK-silencing strains under the optimal induction, however, the phosphorylation increment dropped to about 16% and the lysine content remained at the same level as in the WT. Thus, AMPK is presented as the critical intermediary in citric acid’s regulation of lysine biosynthesis in F. filiformis.
The Effects of Lakitelek Thermal Water and Tap Water on Skin Microbiome, a Randomized Control Pilot Study
Authors: Tamás Bender , Gabriella Kalics , Kristóf Árvai , Anett Illés , János Pál Kósa , Bálint Tobiás , Péter Lakatos , Márton Papp , Katalin Nemes
Published: March 2023

The beneficial effects of balneotherapy have been proven by numerous clinical studies on locomotor disorders. To date, there is only scant data on changes in the microbiome system of the skin during balneotherapy. The aim of this study was to compare the effects of thermal water and tap water on the skin’s microbiome in healthy volunteers. 30 healthy female volunteers participated in the study. The experimental group (of 15 women) spent 30-min 10 times, in Gabriella Spring’s thermal baths (i.e., mineral water containing sodium hydrogen carbonate).The controlled group (15 women) had the same, but in tap water. The results of this study have proven that there is a difference in the influencing effects of tap water and medicinal water on the microbiome of the skin. After bathing in the thermal water of Lakitelek, Deinococcus increased significantly at the genus level, and the tendency for Rothia mucilaginosa bacteria also increased. At the species level, Rothia mucilaginosa increased significantly, while Paracoccus aminovorans and the tendency for Paracoccus marcusii decreased. When the values of the two trial groups after bathing at the genus level were compared, Rothia bacteria increased significantly, while Haemophilus tended to increase, Pseudomonas tended to decrease, Neisseria tended to increase significantly, and Flavobacterium tended to decrease. At the species level, Geobacillus vulcani decreased significantly, and the tendency for Burkholderia gladioli decreased. The growth of Rothia mucilaginosa and the decrease in the tendency of Paracoccus, Pseudomonas, Flavobacteroium, and Burkholderia gladioli confirm the beneficial effect of balneotherapy. In this study, trends are represented by the uncorrected p value. The main result was that the thermal water changed certain bacteria of the skin, both on the genus and species levels, but there were no significant changes in the tap water used, either at the genus or species level. We first compared the worlds of thermal water and tap water’s microbiome systems. The thermal water decreased the number of certain inflammatory infectious agents and could enhance some of their positive effects, which have been proven at the molecular level. Our results can provide an important clue in the treatment of certain skin diseases. The research of the skin microbiome during balneotherapy can be one of the most intriguing and exciting topics of the future and can bring us closer to understanding the mechanism of action of balneotherapy.
Dry Friction Analysis in Doped Surface by Network Simulation Method
Authors: Solano Joaquín , Balibrea Francisco , Moreno José Andrés , Marín Fulgencio
Published: March 2023

Dry friction cannot be understood on a macroscopic scale without knowing what happens at the contact of sliding surfaces on an atomic scale. Tests on this scale are very expensive and very sensitive to the effects of contamination or inaccurate fittings. On the other hand, the sample dimensions are small because of the requirements of the test equipment, which makes it difficult to generalise the conclusions drawn. This work reviews the models used to analyse friction processes, and proposes the application of one of the models, the Frenkel–Kontorova–Tomlinson (FKT) model, to study the dry frictional behaviour of doped surfaces. The study shows that for concreted types of doped pattern, the behaviour can change from chaotic to periodic depending on the stiffness, which in turn are associated with temperature.
Defect Analysis of a Non-Iterative Co-Simulation
Authors: Glumac Slaven , Kovačić Zdenko
Published: March 2023

This article presents an analysis of co-simulation defects for a system of coupled ordinary differential equations. The research builds on the theorem that the co-simulation error is bounded if the co-simulation defect is bounded. The co-simulation defect can be divided into integration, output, and connection defects, all of which can be controlled. This article proves that the output and connection defect can be controlled by the co-simulation master by varying the communication step size. A non-iterative co-simulation method with variable communication step size is presented to demonstrate the applicability of the presented research. The orders of the interpolation polynomials used in the co-simulation method are varied in the experimental analysis. The experimental analysis shows how each component of a co-simulation defect affects the co-simulation error. The analysis presented is used to verify the applicability of the proposed approach and to provide guidelines for the configuration of the co-simulation.
Synergistic Antibacterial Activity of Benzalkonium Bromide and Cu-Bearing Duplex Stainless Steel against Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Liu Xiaomeng , Qiu Chengshuo , Zhang Mingxing , Zhou Enze , Xu Dake , Fan Yongqiang , Song Yongbo
Published: March 2023

The bactericide benzalkonium bromide is widely used to kill Pseudomonas aeruginosa, which causes microbiologically influenced corrosion (MIC). However, the extensive use of benzalkonium bromide will enhance bacterial drug resistance and cause environmental pollution. In this study, benzalkonium bromide combined with Cu-bearing 2205 duplex stainless steel (2205-Cu DSS) was used to kill Pseudomonas aeruginosa; the germicidal rate of the combination of benzalkonium bromide and 2205-Cu DSS was 24.2% higher than that of using benzalkonium bromide alone, after five days. The antibacterial efficacy was evaluated using an antibacterial test and biofilm observation. The results showed that, in the presence of P. aeruginosa, the combination of 23.44 ppm benzalkonium bromide and 2205-Cu DSS showed the best antibacterial efficacy.
Trypanosome Infections and Anemia in Cattle Returning from Transhumance in Tsetse-Infested Areas of Cameroon
Authors: Farikou Oumarou , Simo Gustave , Njiokou Flobert , Kamé Ngassé Ginette Irma , Achiri Fru Martin , Geiger Anne
Published: March 2023

The objective of this work was to assess the anemic status and the use of an immunological test and PCR-based methods to determine the infection rates of trypanosomes species. Transhumance aims to provide cattle with greener pastures and greater water resources than in the Djerem region during the dry season. Two criteria were used to assess the health status of the animals, the prevalence of trypanosomiasis and the level of anemia. In addition, we have evaluated the effectiveness, in trypanosomiasis detection, of the Very Diag Kit (CEVA Santé animale), a Rapid diagnosis test (RDT) based on immunological identification of T. congolense s.l. and T. vivax, responsible for AAT. Four trypanosome species (Trypanosoma congolense savannah type (Tcs), T. congolense forest type (Tcf), T. brucei s.l. (Tbr) and T. vivax (Tvx)) were identified in cattle sampled in four villages. The overall infection rate determined by PCR (68.6%) was much higher than those generally reported in cattle from the Adamawa region (35 to 50%). Infections (including mixed infections) by Tc s.l. (Tcs + Tcf) were predominant (45.7%). The infection rates were also determined using the Very Diag Kit allowing us to identify Tc s.l. and Tvx in the field in less than 20 min. This method provided, for the global infection, a higher rate (76.5%) than that determined by PCR (68.6%), although it is supposed to be less sensitive than PCR. Tc s.l. infection rate (37.8%) was similar to that (38.8%) determined by PCR (Tcs + Tcf single infections). In contrast, the prevalence of Tvx single infections measured by RDT (18%) was nearly two-fold higher than that (9.4%) measured by PCR. Thus, further comparative analyses seem to be needed in order to more accurately assess the sensitivity and specificity of the Very Diag test under our conditions of use on blood samples. The mean PCVs in trypanosome-infected as well as in uninfected cattle were below 25%, the threshold below which an animal is considered anemic. Our study shows that cattle return from transhumance in poor health. It raises questions about its real benefit, especially since the herds are themselves likely to become vectors of trypanosomiasis and possibly of other diseases. At least, effective measures have to be undertaken to treat all cattle coming back from transhumance.
Cyclic [Cu-biRadical]2 Secondary Building Unit in 2p-3d and 2p-3d-4f Complexes: Crystal Structure and Magnetic Properties
Authors: Wang Xiao-Tong , Huang Xiao-Hui , Song Hong-Wei , Ma Yue , Li Li-Cun , Sutter Jean-Pascal
Published: March 2023

Employing the new nitronyl nitroxide biradical ligand biNIT-3Py-5-Ph (2-(5-phenyl-3-pyridyl)-bis(4,4,5,5-tetramethylimidazoline-1-oxyl-3-oxide)), a 16-spin Cu-radical complex, [Cu8(biNIT-3Py-5-Ph)4(hfac)16] 1, and three 2p-3d-4f chain complexes, {[Ln(hfac)3][Cu(hfac)2]2(biNIT-3Py-5-Ph)2}n (LnⅢ= Gd 2, Tb 3, Dy 4; hfac = hexafluoroacetylacetonate), have been prepared and characterized. X-ray crystallographic analysis revealed in all derivatives a common cyclic [Cu-biNIT]2 secondary building unit in which two bi-NIT-3Py-5-Ph biradical ligands and two CuII ions are associated via the pyridine N atoms and NO units. For complex 1, two such units assemble with four additional CuII ions to form a discrete complex involving 16 S = 1/2 spin centers. For complexes 2–4, the [Cu-biNIT]2 units are linked by LnIII ions via NO groups in a 1D coordination polymer. Magnetic studies show that the coordination of the aminoxyl groups with Cu or Ln ions results in behaviors combining ferromagnetic and antiferromagnetic interactions. No slow magnetic relaxation behavior was observed for Tb and Dy derivatives.
Optimisation of the Flame Spheroidisation Process for the Rapid Manufacture of Fe3O4-Based Porous and Dense Microspheres
Authors: Molinar-Díaz Jesús , Woodliffe John Luke , Steer Elisabeth , Morley Nicola A. , Brown Paul D. , Ahmed Ifty
Published: March 2023

The rapid, single-stage, flame-spheroidisation process, as applied to varying Fe3O4:CaCO3 powder combinations, provides for the rapid production of a mixture of dense and porous ferromagnetic microspheres with homogeneous composition, high levels of interconnected porosity and microsphere size control. This study describes the production of dense (35–80 µm) and highly porous (125–180 µm) Ca2Fe2O5 ferromagnetic microspheres. Correlated backscattered electron imaging and mineral liberation analysis investigations provide insight into the microsphere formation mechanisms, as a function of Fe3O4/porogen mass ratios and gas flow settings. Optimised conditions for the processing of highly homogeneous Ca2Fe2O5 porous and dense microspheres are identified. Induction heating studies of the materials produced delivered a controlled temperature increase to 43.7 °C, indicating that these flame-spheroidised Ca2Fe2O5 ferromagnetic microspheres could be highly promising candidates for magnetic induced hyperthermia and other biomedical applications.
Test−Retest Reliability of Isokinetic Ankle, Knee and Hip Strength in Physically Active Adults Using Biodex System 4 Pro
Authors: Tuominen Juho , Leppänen Mari , Jarske Heidi , Pasanen Kati , Vasankari Tommi , Parkkari Jari
Published: March 2023

Background: The isokinetic dynamometry is considered a gold standard in muscle strength testing. The reliability of lower limb isokinetic strength measurements has not been thoroughly evaluated. Objective: To examine the test−retest reliability of isokinetic ankle plantar and dorsiflexion, ankle inversion and eversion, knee extension and flexion and hip abduction and adduction strength in physically active adults using Biodex System 4 Pro. Methods: Peak torques (PTs) and average peak torques (APTs) of the dominant and nondominant lower limbs were tested twice in 19 physically active adults 7 to 14 days apart. Results: The intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) values varied from excellent to moderate and coefficient of variation of typical error (CVTE) values were 6.6–19.5%. Change in the mean expressed as a percent varied from −3.1% to 9.6%. There was no difference in the reliability between PT and APT values. Dominant lower limb was more reliable in every case if there was difference between limbs. Conclusion: Test−retest reliability of isokinetic ankle, knee and hip strength in physically active adults using Biodex System 4 is mostly good or excellent. However, the observed range of the random variation has to be noted when using it in scientific follow-up studies or evaluation of patient progress in clinical settings.
A Staring Tracking Measurement Method of Resident Space Objects Based on the Star Tacker
Authors: Xu Tingting , Yang Xiubin , Fu Zongqiang , Wu Mo , Gao Suining
Published: March 2023

Measuring resident space objects (RSOs) by star trackers has become a research hotspot in space situational awareness. However, the arc length measured by star trackers is too short to complete the high-precision orbit determination of the RSO. In this paper, a staring–tracking measurement (STM) method is proposed to obtain a sufficiently long arc. Firstly, the three-axis attitude calculation model of the satellite is established for tracking RSOs during the staring process. Secondly, an observation method of the RSO location is proposed based on the principle of the angular distance invariance and the imaging mapping function of the star tracker. Finally, the numerical simulations and the ground experiment were conducted to verify the proposed algorithm. Simulation results show that the acquisition time of the measurable arcs is longer than 6 min, and the accuracy of the declination and the ascension can meet the standard for RSO orbit determination. The physical experiment shows that the acquisition time is consistent with that in the simulation. Our work provides a new idea for the realization of high-precision space-based optical measurement.
Advances in the Phytochemical Characterisation and Bioactivities of Salvia aurea L. Essential Oil
Authors: Alves-Silva Jorge Miguel , Maccioni Delia , Cocco Emma , Gonçalves Maria José , Porcedda Silvia , Piras Alessandra , Cruz Maria Teresa , Salgueiro Lígia , Maxia Andrea
Published: March 2023

The Salvia L. genus (Lamiaceae) is largely used in the pharmaceutical and food industry. Several species of biological relevance are extensively employed in traditional medicine, including Salvia aurea L. (syn. S. africana-lutea L.), which is used as a traditional skin disinfectant and in wounds as a healing remedy; nevertheless, these properties have not been validated yet. The aim of the present study is to characterise S. aurea essential oil (EO), unveiling its chemical composition and validating its biological properties. The EO was obtained by hydrodistillation and subsequently analysed by GC-FID and GC-MS. Different biological activities were assessed: the antifungal effect on dermatophytes and yeasts and the anti-inflammatory potential by evaluating nitric oxide (NO) production and COX-2 and iNOS protein levels. Wound-healing properties were assessed using the scratch-healing test, and the anti-aging capacity was estimated through the senescence-associated beta-galactosidase activity. S. aurea EO is mainly characterised by 1,8-cineole (16.7%), β-pinene (11.9%), cis-thujone (10.5%), camphor (9.5%), and (E)-caryophyllene (9.3%). The results showed an effective inhibition of the growth of dermatophytes. Furthermore, it significantly reduced protein levels of iNOS/COX-2 and simultaneously NO release. Additionally, the EO exhibited anti-senescence potential and enhanced wound healing. Overall, this study highlights the remarkable pharmacological properties of Salvia aurea EO, which should be further explored in order to develop innovative, sustainable, and environmentally friendly skin products.
Population Structure and Association Mapping for Agronomical and Biochemical Traits of a Large Spanish Apple Germplasm
Authors: Mignard Pierre , Font i Forcada Carolina , Giménez Rosa , Moreno María Ángeles
Published: March 2023

A basic knowledge of linkage disequilibrium and population structure is necessary in order to determine the genetic control and identify significant associations with agronomical and phytochemical compounds in apple (Malus × domestica Borkh). In this study, 186 apple accessions (Pop1), representing both Spanish native accessions (94) and non-Spanish cultivars (92) from the EEAD-CSIC apple core collection, were assessed using 23 SSRs markers. Four populations were considered: Pop1, Pop2, Pop3, and Pop4. The initial Pop1 was divided into 150 diploid (Pop2) and 36 triploid accessions (Pop3), while for the inter-chromosomal linkage disequilibrium and the association mapping analysis, 118 phenotype diploid accessions were considered Pop4. Thus, the average number of alleles per locus and observed heterozygosity for the overall sample set (Pop1) were 15.65 and 0.75, respectively. The population structure analysis identified two subpopulations in the diploid accessions (Pop2 and Pop4) and four in the triploids (Pop3). Regarding the Pop4, the population structure with K = 2 subpopulations segregation was in agreement with the UPGMA cluster analysis according to the genetic pairwise distances. Moreover, the accessions seemed to be segregated by their origin (Spanish/non-Spanish) in the clustering analysis. One of the two subpopulations encountered was quite-exclusively formed by non-Spanish accessions (30 out of 33). Furthermore, agronomical and basic fruit quality parameters, antioxidant traits, individual sugars, and organic acids were assessed for the association mapping analysis. A high level of biodiversity was exhibited in the phenotypic characterization of Pop4, and a total of 126 significant associations were found between the 23 SSR markers and the 21 phenotypic traits evaluated. This study also identified many new marker-locus trait associations for the first time, such as in the antioxidant traits or in sugars and organic acids, which may be useful for predictions and for a better understanding of the apple genome.
Facilitated Adaptation as A Conservation Tool in the Present Climate Change Context: A Methodological Guide
Authors: Torres Elena , García-Fernández Alfredo , Iñigo Diana , Lara-Romero Carlos , Morente-López Javier , Prieto-Benítez Samuel , Rubio Teso María Luisa , Iriondo José M.
Published: March 2023

Climate change poses a novel threat to biodiversity that urgently requires the development of adequate conservation strategies. Living organisms respond to environmental change by migrating to locations where their ecological niche is preserved or by adapting to the new environment. While the first response has been used to develop, discuss and implement the strategy of assisted migration, facilitated adaptation is only beginning to be considered as a potential approach. Here, we present a review of the conceptual framework for facilitated adaptation, integrating advances and methodologies from different disciplines. Briefly, facilitated adaptation involves a population reinforcement that introduces beneficial alleles to enable the evolutionary adaptation of a focal population to pressing environmental conditions. To this purpose, we propose two methodological approaches. The first one (called pre-existing adaptation approach) is based on using pre-adapted genotypes existing in the focal population, in other populations, or even in closely related species. The second approach (called de novo adaptation approach) aims to generate new pre-adapted genotypes from the diversity present in the species through artificial selection. For each approach, we present a stage-by-stage procedure, with some techniques that can be used for its implementation. The associated risks and difficulties of each approach are also discussed.
Identification and Quantification of Bioactive Compounds in Organic and Conventional Edible Pansy Flowers (Viola × wittrockiana) and Their Antioxidant Activity
Authors: Kozicka Michalina , Hallmann Ewelina
Published: March 2023

The use of edible flowers has become increasingly popular as a good source of bioactive compounds. Many flowers can be consumed, but there is a lack of information about the chemical composition of organic and conventional flowers. Organic crops represent a higher level of food safety because pesticides and artificial fertilizers are prohibited. The present experiment was carried out with organic and conventional edible pansy flowers of different colors: double-pigmented violet/yellow and single-pigmented yellow flowers. In fresh flowers, the contents of dry matter and polyphenols (including phenolic acids, flavonoids, anthocyanins, carotenoids, and chlorophylls) and the antioxidant activity were determined by the HPLC-DAD method. The results showed that organic edible pansy flowers contained significantly more bioactive compounds, especially polyphenols (333.8 mg/100 g F.W.), phenolic acids (40.1 mg/100 g F.W.), and anthocyanins (293.7 mg/100 g F.W.) compared to conventional methods. Double-pigmented (violet/yellow) pansy flowers are more recommended for the daily diet than single-pigmented yellow flowers. The results are unique and open the first chapter in a book on the nutritional value of organic and conventional edible flowers.
Thermal Susceptibility of Nickel in the Manufacture of Softeners
Authors: Álvarez-Castellanos Pino P. , Fernández-Arias Pablo , Vergara Diego , San-José Francisco J.
Published: March 2023

The chemical industry includes a wide range of factories focused on obtaining final products as: (i) plastics; (ii) chemical fibers; (iii) rubber; (iv) perfumery and cosmetic products; and (v) cleaning products. Although the level of safety in the activities and installations of this sector is very high, the use of dangerous substances implies an increased risk of suffering an accident involving the emission of hazardous substances, as well as endangering the safety of workers. In the case of the manufacture of softeners, the presence of isopropanol (C3H8O), and dimethyl sulfate (CH3)2SO4), have been reported to be the accident cause in most of the cases. The European accident database (eMars) reported an accident in which the presence of impurities of nickel (Ni) in the hydrogenated tallow used as raw material for softener production may have increased thermal reactivity and the chances of spontaneous combustion. This paper analyzes the results obtained with the Maciejasz Index (MI) to understand the thermal susceptibility of these substances in liquid state. The results show that combinations of nickel (hydrogenated tallow catalyst) with other liquid substances (isopropanol, dimethyl sulfate, and sulfuric acid) are not sufficiently reactive with oxygen to cause a spontaneous combustion.
Study on Verification Approach and Multicontact Points Issue When Modeling Cyperus esculentus Seeds Based on DEM
Authors: Xu Tianyue , Zhang Ruxin , Jiang Xinming , Feng Weizhi , Wang Yang , Wang Jingli
Published: March 2023

In this paper, the Multisphere (MS) models of three varieties of Cyperus esculentus seeds are modeled based on DEM. In addition, for comparison, other particle models based on automatic filing in EDEM software are also introduced. Then, the direct shear test, piling test, bulk density test, and rotating hub test are used to verify the feasibility of particle models of Cyperus esculentus seeds that we proposed. By comparing the simulated results and experimental results, combined with the CPU computation time, the proposed particle models achieved better simulation accuracy with fewer filing spheres. According to simulation results, some limitation was present when using one single verification test; varieties of verification tests used could improve the verification reliability, and a more appropriate particle model could be selected. Additionally, the issue of multicontact points in the MS model was studied. The Hertz Mindlin (no slip) (HM) model and Hertz Mindlin new restitution (HMNR) model were both considered in simulations for comparison. The rotating hub test and particle–wall impact test were used, and the influences of multiple contact points on the motion behavior of individual particles and particle assemblies were analyzed. Simulation results showed that the multiple contact points affected the motion behavior of individual particles; in contrast, the influence of multiple contact points on the motion behavior of the particle assembly was insignificant. Moreover, the relationships between moisture content of seeds and Young’s modulus, Young’s modulus, and the number of contact points were also considered. Young’s modulus decreased with increasing moisture content. The number of contact points increased with a decreasing Young’s modulus.
Device Testing: High-Efficiency and High-Uniformity Microwave Water Treatment System Based on Horn Antennas
Authors: Tan Renxuan , Wu Yuanyuan , Yang Fengming , Yang Yang , Lan Junqing , Zhu Huacheng
Published: March 2023

Microwave heating has excellent potential for applications in wastewater treatment. This study proposes a highly efficient continuous liquid-phase microwave heating system to overcome the problems of low treatment capacity, low dynamic range of loads, and insufficient heating uniformity of the existing equipment. First, a quarter-wavelength impedance-matching layer improves heating efficiency, and the heating uniformity has been enhanced by horn antennas. Second, an experimental system is developed. The simulation and experimental results are consistent, with the microwave system achieving over 90% energy utilization for different thicknesses and concentrations of salt water. Finally, simulations are performed to analyze microwave efficiency and heating uniformity at different flow rates, salinities, dielectric properties, and sawtooth structures. The system can efficiently heat loads with a wide range of dielectric properties, including saline water. Generally, when the permittivity varies from 10 to 80, and the loss tangent varies dynamically from 0.15 to 0.6, more than 90% of microwave efficiency and excellent temperature distribution (The coefficient of temperature variation COV < 0.5) can be achieved. The system’s modular design enables scaling up to further boost processing capacity. Overall, the system provides high-throughput, high-efficiency, high-uniformity, and large-dynamic-range microwave water treatment, which has promising applications in industrial water treatment.
Flotation Sludges from Precious Metal Recovery Processes: From Waste to Secondary Raw Material in Ceramics
Authors: Perotti Matteo , Iacoviello Francesco , Marian Narcisa M. , Indelicato Carlo , Capitani Giancarlo , Salvini Riccardo , Zampini Marco , Viti Cecilia
Published: March 2023

In this study, we investigated flotation muds (FM) deriving from the recovery processes of precious metals contained in e-waste (wastes from electronics) and exhausted catalysts. FM consist of an amorphous phase, corresponding to a Ca- and Al-rich silicatic glass, potentially usable as a secondary raw material (SRM) to obtain a final ceramic product (CFM). A high FM amount was used in our ceramic tests, and suitably mixed with variable percentages of other phases. Chemical analysis, phase composition, microstructure, pore pattern and technological properties of the new ceramic products were determined using different analytical techniques, including bulk XRF, XRD, SEM-EDS and µCT. The CFM product predominantly consists of nepheline, pyroxene and wollastonite as the main crystalline phases, with a minor amorphous phase occurring as a compact interstitial matrix. The ceramic product has a porous interconnected microstructure. Nevertheless, this microstructure does not negatively affect the mechanical properties of the ceramic product, as testified by the geo-mechanical tests, revealing good properties in terms of bending and uniaxial strength. These preliminary results point out that FM recycling is feasible, at least at the laboratory scale.
Research on the Coupling Coordination Degree of Triple Helix of Government Guidance, Industrial Innovation and Scientific Research Systems: Evidence from China
Authors: Wang Xin
Published: March 2023

The coordinated development among government guidance, industrial innovation and scientific research systems has a profound impact on scientific and technological innovation. By constructing a triple helix evaluation index system covering 3 first-class indicators and 32 second-class indicators, this study calculates the coupling coordination degree (CCD) of the triple helix of government (G), industry (I) and university (U) in China from 2010 to 2020, analyzes its time change trend and spatial regional differences, and discusses macro influencing factors. The findings are as follows: First, the coordinated development of government guidance, industrial innovation and scientific research subsystems is low. Although the CCD of triple helix of GIU has been improved, it is still in a mild imbalance state. The CCD of triple helix of GIU in the eastern region is the highest, and that in the western region is the lowest. The CCD of triple helix of GIU in the central region grows the fastest, and that in the northeast region grows the slowest. Secondly, informationization level, opening to the outside world, urbanization level, market demand and economic development are the main influencing factors of the CCD of triple helix of GIU, but these factors have heterogeneous influences on different regions.
Teacher Readiness and Learner Competency in Using Modern Technological Learning Spaces
Authors: Ghalia Nadia Hassan , Karra Sawsan Yousif
Published: March 2023

The educational space and its many aspects influence the teaching and learning process. Traditionally, educational institutions deal with learning spaces in the light of distance learning and formal education, such as classrooms, laboratories, libraries, and others. This study aimed at defining the readiness degree of teachers for using modern technological learning spaces and their relationship to the enhancement of learners’ competency. Its randomly selected sample consisted of 397 schoolteachers in the Green Line area that has been occupied by Israel since 1948. A questionnaire was used to achieve the study objectives. Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS 25) was used to analyze the data. The findings of the study are: (i) the readiness degree of teachers for modern technological learning spaces and the degree of enhancement of learners’ competency were moderate, (ii) there was a statistically significant correlation between the readiness degree of teachers for modern technological learning spaces and the enhancement of learners’ competency, (iii) the importance of using technological learning spaces in the educational field, and (iv) teachers had sufficient knowledge about the important role of technology in raising the outcomes of the teaching and learning process.
Evaluation of Clinicopathological Data, the Specific Feline Pancreatic Lipase Assay, and Abdominal Ultrasound as Severity Determinants in Cats with Pancreatitis
Authors: Buckley Christy , Lee Alison M. , Wills Robert W. , Sullivant Alyssa M. , Cridge Harry
Published: March 2023

Limited data exist to predict the severity of pancreatitis in cats. In this retrospective case series, we reviewed the medical records of 45 cats with SP from June 2014 to June 2019. Case definition was based on an internist’s review of clinopathologic data, Spec fPL concentration, and AUS findings. Information extracted from the medical records included signalment, history, physical examination findings, selected clinicopathological data (total bilirubin, glucose, ALP, ALT, and total calcium), Spec fPL concentration, AUS images/clips, length of hospitalization, and survival data. Hazard ratios were used to evaluate the association between clinicopathological data, the Spec fPL assay, AUS findings, and the length of hospitalization. Clinicopathological abnormalities, the Spec fPL, and AUS abnormalities were not statistically associated with the length of hospitalization. Despite a lack of statistical significance, the hazard ratios suggest the potential that an elevated total bilirubin (hazard ratio (HR): 1.19), hypocalcemia (HR: 1.49), and an elevated Spec fPL concentration (HR: 1.54) could be associated with prolonged hospitalization, although additional studies would be needed to verify this. Additionally, hazard ratios suggest that AUS evidence of concurrent gallbladder (HR: 1.61) and gastric abnormalities (HR: 1.36) could be associated with prolonged hospitalization.
Stelmužės / Steinensee dvaro kultūrinio paveldo atodangos: dvaro knygos ir jų ženklai
Authors: Ilarienė Inga
Published: March 2023

THE OUTCROPS OF THE CULTURAL HERITAGE OF STELMUŽĖ / STEINENSEE MANOR: THE BOOKS AND BOOKMARKS OF THE MANOR

Based on a new fact about books from Stelmužė Manor gifted to Vytautas Magnus University in 1937, research was conducted to verify factual information regarding the
number and the nature of the books gifted, to clarify the situation of the survival of the books to the present day, to identify their current storage locations, and to analyse the information in the provenance marks of the books, which speaks of von Foelckersahmbs, the owners of Stelmužė (Steinensee / Stelles muiža), and the fate of the manor that changed after the demarcation of the Lithuanian-Latvian border in 1921 and after the land reform. The list of the gifted books in the appendix is intended to reveal one of the fragments of the multifaceted multicultural heritage of Stelmužė Manor(s).

KEYWORDS: Marijona Čilvinaitė, inventory book of the Library of the University of Lithuania, Steinensee / Stelles muiža / Stelmužė manor, Steinensee house of the Foelckersahmb family, books of Stelmužė manor (published between 1808 and 1930), bookmarks (Steinensee ex libris,heraldic congreve, autograph), Vadim Foelckersahmb, Herbert Hahn.
The image of the Admiral in the cinema in the context of political polarization
Authors:   Department of Philosophy, Theology and Religious Studies ANO VO “Slavic-Greek-Latin Academy”, Panishchev A.L.
Published: March 2023

This article is devoted to the film “Admiral”. The work emphasizes that in many countries the images of admirals are reflected in the cinema, and usually the heroes of the films are personalities who have taken an important place in the history of their countries and are respected by society as a whole. However, in Russia, in the film “Admiral” there is a glorification of a war criminal and an immoral individual. An admiral who acted in a united front with the interventionists against Soviet Russia cannot be perceived by the people as an honest man. It should be noted that the intervention against Russia was carried out by those countries that currently constitute the main force of Russia's geopolitical and military opponents.
Activity of creative unions as impulse of the systemic development of the culture of Pridnestrov'e
Authors:   Department of Social and Cultural Activities and Performing Arts, Pridnestrovian State Institute of Arts named after A.G. Rubinshtein, Golub N.A.
Published: March 2023

The activities of the creative unions of Pridnestrovie are viewed through the prism of historical and political events: from the Soviet era to the present day. It is noted that professional associations that emerged in the 1990s, in addition to influencing the cultural policy of the state, perform ideological functions, protect the interests of their members, and are expert communities. Of more than a dozen creative unions (out of 600 public associations registered in Pridnestrovie), the most active at present are the Union of Designers, the Union of Writers, the Union of Artists. The author analyzes: the semantic content of the activity and the degree of influence on the cultural policy of Pridnestrovie; legislative framework (to what extent it allows creative unions to function as expert communities); the activities of state and public structures empowered to form trends in the cultural development of the republic. The main conclusions made by the author should be considered that the productivity of creative unions depends on the leadership qualities of the leaders of professional associations themselves, their vision of development trends and influence on the cultural field of the republic, the authority of recognized luminaries in the field of culture and art, their opinion on key positions. For a more active work of creative unions, it is proposed to intensify the dialogue with state authorities, and revise the previously “frozen” laws on preferential taxation, activate the grant system of financing, and through social and creative orders, the acquisition of works of fiction and art, by providing the appropriate infrastructure, to support these public professional associations.
Preservation of the genetic diversity of cattle is the basis for the successful development of animal husbandry
Authors: АМЕРХАНОВ Х.А. , ШЕХОВЦЕВ Г.С. , КОЛДАЕВА Е.М. , ПРОХОРОВ И.П.
Published: March 2023

В статье приведены статистические данные исчезновения и статуса риска исчезновения пород сельскохозяйственных животных согласно классификации ФАО. Указаны причины этого явления, где главным фактором генетической эрозии в мире является беспорядочный кроссбридинг — 42%. Дан обзор современного состояния генофонда отечественных пород крупного рогатого скота в Российской Федерации. В 2020 году животные молочного и молочно-мясного направлений продуктивности представлены 24 породами, а мясной скот — 12. Приведена динамика относительной численности подконтрольного поголовья животных молочного и молочно-мясного направлений продуктивности, которая свидетельствует о высокой интенсивности голштинизации скота. За период 2015—2020 гг. произошло увеличение доли голштинской породы на 14,21%. Упомянут ряд пород крупного рогатого скота с уникальными характеристиками. Сравнивается средний возраст выбытия коров отечественной селекции и голштинской породы, отмечена важность данного продуктивно-хозяйственного показателя с точки зрения производственно-экономического и рыночного потенциала. Затронута проблема сохранения генетического разнообразия сельскохозяйственных видов животных в рамках организационно-правовых форм, а также программ in vivo и in vitro.
Influence of the duration of pre-milking udder preparation via an automatic device on the intensity of milk production in cows with low and high productivity
Authors: МЕЩЕРЯКОВ В.П.
Published: March 2023

Изучены параметры молоковыведения у низко- и высокопродуктивных коров в зависимости от продолжительности преддоильной подготовки вымени на автоматической установке. Исследование проведено на 20 первотелках методом периодов. Сформированы 2 группы по 10 голов низкопродуктивных и высокопродуктивных коров. В зависимости от длительности преддоильной подготовки вымени разделяли 3 периода: контрольный и 2 опытных. Длительность преддоильной подготовки в контроле составляла до 120 с, в I периоде — 121—150 с, во II — более 150 с. Установлено, что оптимальная интенсивность молокоотдачи у низко- и высокопродуктивных коров наблюдается при продолжительности преддоильной подготовки вымени до 120 с. Увеличение продолжительности преддоильной подготовки свыше 120 с (P<0,001) у низкопродуктивных животных вызывает четкую тенденцию к уменьшению разового удоя, а у высокопродуктивных — его снижение (P<0,01). При удлинении продолжительности преддоильной подготовки у низкопродуктивных особей наблюдается увеличение времени их пребывания в доильном боксе на 13,7—21,7% (P<0,01), а у высокопродуктивных — тенденция к его увеличению. У низко- и высокопродуктивных коров удлинение преддоильной подготовки вызывает четкую направленность к снижению средней и максимальной интенсивности молоковыведения, у низкопродуктивных особей — ослабление интенсивности молоковыведения, наблюдаемой при увеличении продолжительности преддоильной подготовки вымени и сопровождаемой увеличением продолжительности доения и средней продолжительности выведения молока из четвертей вымени. Длительная преддоильная подготовка является недостатком, который обусловлен конструктивным решением доильного робота. В перспективе следует улучшить его конструкцию и сократить длительность операции по преддоильной подготовке вымени до значений, применяемых при традиционной технологии доения.
Mycobacterial infection in a Nile crocodile (Crocodylus niloticus) from Türkiye
Authors: Ahlat Ozan , Özöner Özgür , Filikci Kürşat , Atalay Vural Sevil
Published: March 2023

Mycobacterial infection in Nile crocodile tissues sent from a private zoo was characterized pathomorphologically and immunohistochemically in this case. Macroscopically, multifocal, greyish-white areas ranging in size from 1 mm to 5 mm were seen in the lung, liver, and spleen. Histologically, a large number of well-demarcated necrotic areas were seen. These areas included nuclei debris locally. Inflammatory cells along with a couple of multinucleated giant cells surrounded the necrotic cores. Numerous acid-fast bacilli were detected by Ziehl-Neelsen staining method. Immunolabelling for both Mycobacterium bovis and anti-BCG antibodies was positive in each tissue.
Міфопоетична драма як вектор репертуарної політики Театру Миколи Садовського
Authors: Гринишина Марина , Іващенко Ірина
Published: March 2023

У статті розглянуто міфопоетичну драму як один з естетико-художніх векторів репертуарної політики першого стаціонарного українського театру Миколи Карповича Садовського. На підставі з’ясування особливого характеру міфологізму як методу авторського освоєння дійсності визначено жанрові та стильові інновації, пов’язані зі сценічними інтерпретаціями українських, польських та єврейських міфопоетичних драматичних текстів на кону Театру М. Садовського.
Значення темпо-ритму у драматичній виставі
Authors: Захарченко Анатолій
Published: March 2023

Стаття присвячена вивченню, осмисленню та практичному оволодінню важливої театральної категорії темпо-ритму вистави. Матеріал статті ґрунтується на попередньому висвітленні загальних питань про темпо-ритм, що були опубліковані у Науковому віснику КНУТКІТ імені І.К. Карпенка-Карого за 2018 рік (випуск 23). Стаття є логічним продовженням висвітлення даної теми стосовно зміщення акценту на проблеми оволодіння темпо-ритмом вистави. Автор статті вважає, що випускник акторського курсу вищого навчального закладу має вміти не лише продемонструвати професійний рівень у виконанні ролі, а й захистити роль теоретичним обґрунтуванням задуму на рівні сучасної театральної термінології.
Феномен тілесності у європейській драматургії кінця ХІХ – початку ХХ століття (На матеріалі творчості Лесі Українки та Антона Чехова)
Authors: Шестакова Дар’я
Published: March 2023

У статті досліджуються соматичні мотиви, образи, форми і функції тілесності в обраних драматичних творах Лесі Українки та А. Чехова. Аналіз специфіки моделювання концепту в контексті авторської поетики і порівняння цих моделей, дає можливість виявити оригінальні (індивідуальні) та спільні (універсальні) ознаки для окреслення феномену тілесності у європейській драматургії межі ХІХ–ХХ століть.
Українська сучасна анімація: досягнення, проблеми і перспективи
Authors: Шаповал Олександра
Published: March 2023

Метою статті є дослідження розвитку та становлення української сучасної анімації, виявлення нових тенденцій і напрямів розвитку. Авторка аналізує фільми, створені аніматорами за останні десять років, бо саме на цей період припадає активний розвиток сучасної української анімації.