Clay Pots Research Articles

Development of a Greenhouse Screen for the Identification of Potato Mop-Top Virus and Spongospora subterranea Resistance in Solanum tuberosum

Potato mop-top virus and its protist vector, Spongospora subterranea, cause internal and external damage to potato tubers that make them unmarketable. Currently there are no effective control methods to eliminate these soilborne and seedborne pathogens, so resistant germplasm is highly desired. A greenhouse assay was designed and validated to screen a large number of plants grown in both sandy soil and potting mix. High pathogen pressure was selected (20 sporosori/gram of soil) to ensure successful inoculation, with an incubation time of 60-90 days. The successful use of conetainers was demonstrated to screen a large number of plants in limited greenhouse space. Thirteen susceptible commercial cultivars or breeding lines were screened in the greenhouse, with S. subterranea detected in 99.5% of the plants grown in both soil types. Potato mop-top virus was detected in 79.4% of the plants grown in five-inch clay pots filled with sandy soil and 97.5% of the plants screened in conetainers filled with potting mix. The high pathogen levels detected in the 13 susceptible cultivars indicate that it is possible to assess potato germplasm resistance to S. subterranea and potato mop-top virus in the greenhouse. In the absence of a research field with consistently high pressure of S. subterranea and potato mop-top virus, this new greenhouse assay could rapidly identify germplasm with resistance to these two economically important pathogens year-round. Future identification of S. subterranea or potato mop-top virus resistant germplasm will enable development of disease resistance markers that can help breeders rapidly identify resistant material.

무령왕릉 출토 중국자기의 용도와 산지 연구

Based on the relationship between Chinese porcelain and its accompanying relics and the results of archaeological investigations into Chinese kiln sites, the use and provenance of the Chinese porcelain excavated from the tomb of King Muryeong were estimated. The black-glazed ware dish-shaped mouth four-eared vessel(黑釉瓷盤口四耳甁) was used as a wine vessel, and the celadon six-eared jar(靑瓷六耳壺) appears to be a container for storing grain, considering its excavation location and relationship with accompanying relics, and the celadon cup(靑瓷盞) was used as a lamp and liquid container in the tomb of King Muryeong. The celadon cup discovered in front of the king's coffin was placed with the black-glazed ware dish-shaped mouth four-eared vessel, so it is assumed that it was a set with the black-glazed ware dish-shaped mouth four-eared vessel. In order to estimate the provenance of the excavated porcelain, ascertained the current status of the main porcelain kilns of the Southern Dynasties and conducted research based on that. The black-glazed ware dish-shaped mouth four-eared vessel is thought to be a product produced at Deqing kiln(德淸窯), and the celadon six-eared jar, which appears to have been produced at a kiln in the southern region, shows similar aspects to the celadon jar excavated from the Mawangkan kiln(馬王墈窯) site of Yuezhou kiln(岳州窯) in Hunan Province, the celadon cup shows the same characteristics in many ways as the cups(bowls) produced in Hongzhou kiln(洪州窯), such as shape, size, clay body, and glaze color. To sum up the above research results, the black-glazed ware dish-shaped mouth four-eared vessel was produced in Deqing kiln, the celadon six-eared jar, which is assumed to have been produced in the Yuezhou kiln, a kiln in the southern region, was used as a container to store grain, and the celadon cup was produced in Hongzhou kiln and was used as a lamp in addition to its general use as a cup.

Impact of insulin storage and syringe reuse on insulin sterility in diabetes mellitus patients in Mwanza Tanzania

This study evaluated microbial contamination in insulin products used by diabetic patients in Mwanza, Tanzania, focusing on syringe reuse and improper storage practices, such as using clay pots or charcoal and water buckets. Conducted in 2024, this cross-sectional, laboratory-based study collected 81 insulin vials from 51 diabetic patients at Bugando Medical Centre through appointments and home visits. The insulin samples were cultured for microbial growth, and bacteria were identified using in-house biochemical tests. The median age of the patients was 50 [IQR: 25–64] years; half had diabetes mellitus for six years and used insulin for five years. Half were male, 52% had primary education, and 49% stored insulin in clay pots. Out of 81 insulin samples collected from diabetic patients, 5 (6.2%) showed microbial contamination, mainly due to Gram-positive bacteria. Contaminated products included Humulin R, Humulin N, and Biosulin 30/70. Storage in clay pots had higher contamination (16%) than storage in refrigerators (0%). Improper storage practices, such as immersing vials in water or a mixture of water and sand within clay pots expose insulin to microbial contamination, which increases the risk of infections. To ensure safety and effectiveness patients should be educated to follow the manufacturer’s storage guidelines.

Geoinformatics-Based Assessment of Salt Mining and Its Socio-economic Impact on Uburu Community, Ebonyi State, Nigeria

The aim of the study is to assess the geo-economic impact of salt mining activities on the people of Uburu community in Ebonyi State, Nigeria. The objective of the study is to identify, map and examine the geographic pattern of the salt mining lake in the area using Geoinformatics method to capture (GPS and Remote Sensing), analyze and map (GIS and cartography) the time series changes in salt lake. Questionnaire was used to solicit for information on salt mining method, health, tools/materials and financial challenges in salt business in Uburu. The study shows the spatial location of the Salt Lake where salt mining activities take place. The study revealed that within a period of twelve years (12) between 2010-2022, there has been changes in the spatial extent of the lake. GIS analysis revealed that in 2010 the salt lake covered an area of 89.8 m<sup>2</sup>. In 2016 it was revealed to be 89 m<sup>2</sup> which shows a spatial decrease in the extent of 0.8 m<sup>2</sup>. The shrinking of the lake can be attributed to mining activities and the effects of climate change. Conversely, the study showed that in 2022, the extent of the Salt Lake was 114.5 m<sup>2 </sup>indicating an increase of 25.5 m<sup>2</sup>. This is, however, attributed to the decline in the salt mining activities in the area. Since the lake has no outlet other than evaporation, the minerals accumulate and give the lake high salinity. The methods adopted by the miners in salt processing were identified to be mainly traditional as about 95% of the respondents indicated having no health challenge since they have been part of the activities. The study further revealed the use of locally made tools and materials such as clay pot, drum, calabash, firewood, bucket, etc. for salt mining and processing. The majority of the respondents (65%) incurred cost of more than N5,000 in the purchase of tools and materials and labor for salt mining business. Likewise, the study revealed factors such as modern technology, cost of materials and good market, if put in place, can improve salt mining business in the area. The t-test revealed that respondent’s monthly income from the salt mining business has no significant determinant relationship with the respondent’s educational qualification and housing type in the study area. Improved modern salt mining system is recommended.

First Pekmez and Later Wine

When it comes to the origin of wine, two distinct narratives can be identified. The first pertains to wine and grapes (from the cultivated vine known as Vitis vinifera ssp. vinifera), as described in general terms by botanists, archaeologists, and other scientists. This narrative begins between the 5th and 4th millennium BCE with the rise of urbanism. Large settlements, organized by elites who could afford to cultivate vines on temple grounds or in royal gardens, along with the emergence of trade centers in the Southeast Asia and Mediterranean, provide evidence for the widespread use of grapes. Wine was consecrated to rulers in heaven, sacrificed by both religious and secular powers, and used in important funerary rituals. Until around 1200 BCE, wine remained the alcoholic beverage of the elite. The second narrative originates from Georgia. During excavations of an early Neolithic settlement of the Shulaveri-Shomu culture (6000-5400 BCE) in the southern Caucasus, about 60 years ago, Georgian archaeologists identified grape seeds from what appeared to be cultivated grapes in the earliest strata. Another significant find was a large clay pot with a pattern resembling grapes. This pot (a kvevri, a traditional Georgian clay wine container) is considered to be the first and oldest of its kind in the world. Some grape seeds, as well as residues of tartaric acid found on pot sherds, are thought by some scholars to serve as markers for grape wine. Based on these discoveries, the narrative shifted to a widely accepted belief that the invention of viticulture, or the production of wine, originated in Georgia and spread through the Southeast Asia to Europe. However, recent research and discussions suggest a need to reconsider these assumptions. It is argued in this paper that the first product derived from grapes may have been pekmez (grape molasses) rather than wine.

Volatile and non-volatile compound analysis of ginkgo chicken soup during cooking using a combi oven.

Volatile and non-volatile compound analysis of ginkgo chicken soup during cooking using a combi oven.

Cultural and Economic Aspect of Juju Dhau: A Survey Study on Societal Practices at Khwopa

The traditional Nepalese delicacy Juju Dhau (known as “king yogurt” in Nepal Bhasa) holds a distinctive flavor and profound cultural significance, especially within the Newari communities of Bhaktapur. Traditionally crafted in clay pots that absorb moisture and insulated with rice husks, the preparation method has persisted across generations, preserving its unique taste and cultural relevance despite shifts in food preferences and advancements in dairy production technology. Beyond its culinary appeal, Juju Dhau has considerable economic value, contributing to Bhaktapur’s economy and providing employment opportunities for many locals. This delicacy has also transcended its traditional roots, gaining popularity among a broader audience and promoting Newari cultural heritage. Despite its significance, there has been limited academic exploration of Juju Dhau’s impact on both cultural identity and economic growth. This study addresses this gap by investigating how Newari cultural practices, exemplified by Juju Dhau, serve as a source of income for the local population. Employing field observations, document analysis, and interviews, the research underscores the critical role of cultural identity as both a symbol and a financial resource for the community.

Carrying Fires: Indo-European Fire Rituals and Glowing Embers on the Move

The solemn sadhu carrying his holy fire in a ceramic pot on his head are the last bearers of a specific part of millennia long traditions and Indo-European heritages. While the Vedic fires still shine and burn in many rituals throughout the sub-Indian continent, the particular fires ever burning and carried in ceramic pots represent perhaps one of the oldest and most original types of Vedic and Indo-European fires and fire rituals. The reasons why these types of fires were seen as the utmost holy and preserved as the most venerated and honourable gift from the gods cannot be sought under the scorching sun along the holy rivers in India, but among pastoral groups living in harsh and cold conditions and climates. Among early Indo-European pastoralists, the ever-burning fire represented the ultimate source and force of life, and these beliefs have been so strong and pervasive that the tradition and religious importance still shines and will continue to do so, because in their seemingly simplicity, these fire rituals reveal a profound complexity and they enable particular ritual possibilities and unique conceptualisations of divinities and their qualities

Towards the Interpretation of the Latin Inscription on a Fragment of a Roman Jug from the Territory of Ancient Nauportus

A Latin possessor inscription was discovered scratched on the bottom of a Roman potsherd (datable to the period between the Late Republic and the Julio-Claudian dynasty) recovered from the Ljubljanica river near Vrhnika. The inscription reads amianti sum curtos in Old Roman cursive. Based on paleographical characteristics, the inscription can be tentatively dated to the 1st c. AD. Several good typological parallels of possessor inscriptions consisting of a genitive of a personal name and the verb sum are found on ceramic vessels across the Roman empire. However, the type in which the object explicitly names itself is rare. The Roman cognomen Amiant(h)us is well attested, especially in Italy, so the only problematic part of the inscription is curtos. Given that the pot is damaged, it is possible that the inscription was originally longer and that curtos stood in attributive position to a word like calix/uasus/ urceus et sim. If this is not the case, however, it can only be understood as a substantivization, potentially signifying something like a ʻ(pot) sherdʼ > ʻpotʼ. In support of this, however, Latin epigraphical and literary sources are silent. An additional problem is raised by the final -os, which in the Classical period would only be justifiable after u. The attested form curtos for expected curtus could potentially be explained as a reflex of Vulgar Latin development of us to -ọs, which is sporadically attested in Pompeian graffiti, or assumed to be a letter-for-letter Latin transcription of the Ancient Greek word κύρτος ʻ(fish)trapʼ. The latter solution runs into the problem of the pot from Ljubljanica not matching what we know of ceramic pots used for fishing in terms of shape and dimensions. Given its shape, the vessel was probably a single-handled Roman lagynos. Allowing for the fact that the inscription does not terminate after <curtos> and that the <t> should be read as an <i>, which indeed seems to be the lectio facilior, another possibility is to restore curios[e] ʻwith care, carefullyʼ and assume a bipartite text such as Amianti sum. Curios[e pone] vel simile.

Monitoring of soil percolate solution after swine effluent application

Fertigation with swine effluent is an increasingly adopted practice in the agricultural sector, aiming to prevent waste discharge into watercourses and contribute to more sustainable production. This study evaluated the percolated soil solution following the application of swine effluent to assess ion retention by porous capsules and the compliance of drained elements with Brazilian legislation. The experiment was conducted in Dourados, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil, using soils from three distinct regions (Dourados, Caarapó, and Naviraí). Soil samples were prepared and placed in pots subjected to fertigation with swine effluent. To collect percolated solutions, porous capsules were installed in ceramic pots at a depth of 0.3 m. The analysis included iron, manganese, copper, zinc, phosphorus, and nitrate. Results indicated that the porous capsules partially retained zinc and phosphorus ions, while nitrate displayed high mobility in the soil, exceeding groundwater limits in some samples. It was concluded that the use of swine effluent in fertigation requires constant monitoring, as certain elements may surpass legal limits, compromising environmental quality. Capsule calibration was effective, but limitations were observed for iron.

Historical leftovers, racialised Others and the coloniality of archaeology: a response to Frieman

The interest that a ragpicker takes in rubbish and detritus, as described by Baudelaire and further developed by Benjamin (1999: 350), is not dissimilar to the archaeologist's concern with the remnants, the things left behind, abandoned. When filling the silences of the colonial archive, the archaeologist collects and catalogues everything that has been cast off, everything broken and discarded. Going through these jumbled leftovers, both archaeologists and ragpickers experience a deep intimacy with the objects they encounter: glass beads from a woven bracelet, a shell celt, textile remains of a hat, a ceramic cooking pot, a flint sceptre, an ivory brush handle, a wooden spoon, a bone needle, an iron sword, a rattle. In this way, archaeologists and ragpickers gather and collect other people's experience of textures, shapes, sounds, fear, traumas, joy, sadness and hopes.

Characterization of Ceramic Tile Bodies Prepared From Clays Collected from Four

Sierra Leone has high potentials for the setting-up of ceramic industry because of its huge virgin deposits of raw materials, chiefly clay, but lacks the technological know-how to utilize these materials to an economically sound level. Tile body offers a foundation for the performance of a glaze. The chemical and mineralogical composition of these clay bodies coupled with some physical properties, such a plasticity, bulk density, porosity, and water absorption, play significant role in determining the quality of the glazed surface.This is attested by certain glaze defects like pinholes, crazing and crawling on the glaze surface resulting mainly from bubble development within the body matrix during firing. The study aims at contributing to the promotion and use of appropriate ceramic building materials technology in Sierra Leone, by providing relevant research data to guide the production of quality ceramic products. The three key objectives, were to determine (1) the physical properties (2) chemical properties (3) mechanical properties of the clay samples investigated for their suitability in clay tile bodies production. Clay samples were collected from four sites in Sierra Leone namely Matankay (C-M) in the Western Rural District, Bo (C-B) in Bo District, Koribondo (C-K) in Pujehun District and Yele (C-Y) in Tonkolili District. Based on their plasticity index values, grain size distribution, bulk density, porosity and dry-fired shrinkage results obtained from this study, the four clay samples investigated are suitable for clay tile body production provided grog, frits, fluxes and other components are added proportionately and fired at temperatures above 1100oC to improve vitrification of the clay tile body during biscuit firing before application of the glaze.

Impact of ceramic packaging on the quality and safety of Armenian fermented dairy product Matsoun

Background: Packaging is essential for food safety, as it acts as a barrier against contaminants that can cause spoilage and affect human health. The Armenian fermented dairy product, matsoun, is packaged not only in plastic and glass but also in clay pots. However, the impact of traditional packaging on the quality and safety of matsoun, especially heavy metal migration, remains under-researched. Objective: This study aimed to investigate the impact of ceramic packaging material on the quality and safety of matsoun during storage. Specifically, it compared the physicochemical properties (pH, titratable acidity), lactic acid bacteria (LAB) populations, and metal migration during storage. Methods: Six samples of matsoun were prepared and packaged in sterilized glass and ceramic containers. The samples were stored at 4 °C and analyzed on days 1, 7, and 15 of storage. The parameters measured included pH, titratable acidity, and LAB counts (coccus and bacillus). Heavy metal migration (Cd, Pb, Hg, As) was analyzed using atomic absorption spectroscopy. Results: The pH of samples packaged in ceramic and glass containers decreased over 15 days of storage, from 4.61 to 4.24 and 4.6 to 4.27, respectively. Titratable acidity increased in both groups, reaching 1.2 % lactic acid. A decrease in bacilli was observed in ceramic-packaged matsoun. The lead concentration remained constant at 0.0045 ppm across all samples. In ceramic containers, cadmium concentration increased from 0.0015 ppm to 0.0029 ppm by day 15. Conclusion: This study observed a decrease in pH, an increase in titratable acidity, and a relatively constant number of lactic acid bacteria indicating ongoing fermentation. The results showed nondetectable concentrations of arsenic (As) and mercury (Hg). The lead (Pb) concentration in all samples remained within the World Health Organization’s (WHO) allowed limit of 0.02 ppm. However, the concentration of cadmium (Cd) concentration in ceramic-packed increased, exceeding the WHO limit of 0.002 ppm. Further research is necessary to identify the sources of cadmium contamination. Keywords: food packaging, ceramic, matsou​​n​, heavy metal migration, food safety

Novel Ceramic Clay Automatic Feeding System and Simulation Analysis

This study aims to verify the feasibility and effectiveness of an automatic feeding system in the ceramic clay-forming process. Through a series of clay-forming experiments, the system’s performance under various process parameters was examined. Precision sensors and data recording devices were used to monitor and record key data during the experimental process in real-time. The results demonstrate that the automatic feeding system can supply clay steadily and continuously under set parameters, ensuring a smooth forming process and significantly improving efficiency. Quantitatively, the system achieved a 30% increase in Vickers hardness, reflecting enhanced mechanical properties of the formed clay bodies. Additionally, there was a notable improvement in axial stress–strain characteristics, indicating better structural integrity and consistency. These improvements reduced human errors and material waste, enhancing production efficiency and product quality. Future research will focus on further optimizing system design and exploring its applications in a broader range of ceramic manufacturing processes.

Stability of physicochemical and microbiological properties of Geniotrigona thoracica honey after moisture reduction and long-term storage in different containers

Stability of physicochemical and microbiological properties of Geniotrigona thoracica honey after moisture reduction and long-term storage in different containers

The Effect of Inorganic-Based Plasticizers on Clay Bodies

In this paper, the effect of two additives on the plasticity properties and drying sensitivity of a Hungarian clay were investigated. Two different sodium tripolyphosphate-based commercially available plasticizers (Fabutit 734, Budit 8H) were applied for experiments. The amount of the additives in the clay mass was changed between 0 and 0.5wt% relative to the weight of the dry clay and the plasticity was measured with two different methods. In addition to the plasticity of the clay mixes, the effect of the additives on the drying sensitivity was also analyzed with the Macey method. Results showed that the moisture content required to shape the clay body can be reduced by 1-1.5% with the mixing 0.1 and 0.2 wt% of Budit 8H additive.

Intelligent Pottery Wheel Machine Design: Enhancing Pottery Throwing Quality and Efficiency

The pottery wheel machine is an essential piece of equipment in ceramics manufacturing. This paper presents the design of an intelligent pottery wheel machine aimed at addressing the issues of low clay material utilization and the challenges of pottery throwing operations. Traditional techniques require exceptional craftsmanship and proficient mechanical operation, and existing pottery wheel machines still demand attention to equipment usage and clay material knowledge. The intelligent pottery wheel machine integrates central positioning, automatic clay feeding, and clay storage. The pull mechanism stores and precisely feeds clay, regulating usage and minimizing excess. The automated settings of the clay storage and power push system replace the need for manual assessment of clay density and quality, ensuring balanced and high-quality clay extrusion. The continuous feeding setting allows for automatic addition of clay, saving replenishment time and reducing the labor intensity of adding clay. The lifting mechanism ensures that the clay body remains centered, avoiding repeated manual adjustments and allowing users to focus on creating pottery rather than spending excessive time mastering the centering technique. The machine’s lightweight, modular design reduces clay waste, making the process more sustainable. By saving clay materials and improving throwing efficiency, it enhances the success rate of throwing.

Injection 3D Printing of Doubly Curved Ceramic Shells in Non-Synthetic Particle Suspensions.

This paper examines the application of non-synthetic particle suspensions as a support medium for the additive manufacturing of complex doubly curved ceramic shells with overhangs between 0° and 90° using clay paste. In this method, the build-up material is injected within a constant volume of air-permeable particle suspension. As the used clay paste does not solidify right after injection, the suspension operates like a support medium and enables various print path strategies. Different non-synthetic suspension mixtures, including solid and flexible components such as quartz sand, refractory clay, various types of wood shavings, and cotton flocks, were evaluated for their ability to securely hold the injected material while allowing drying of the water-based clay body and its shrinkage. The balance between grain composition, added water, and the compressibility of the mixture during printing and drying played a pivotal role in the particle suspension design and assessment. Furthermore, the moisture absorption of the particle suspension and the structural integrity of the layer bond of the fired ceramics were also assessed. The examined additive manufacturing process not only enables the production of meso-scale doubly curved ceramic shells with average overhang of 56° but also introduces a new practice for designing specialized surfaces and constructions.

A Method Development to Enhance Water Alkalinity for Reducing Health Risks Associated with Unsafe Water

Background: Water is essential for life, sustaining both biological and human activities. It plays a crucial role in the physiological functions of the human body and shapes human civilization. Water’s unique properties and its pH, a measure of its acidity or alkalinity, influence its quality and impact on health. The pH of drinking water is particularly important for microbial activity and human health. This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of increasing water alkalinity, with a focus on improving pH levels in tap water through the use of clay pots. Methods: The study was conducted in Sulaymaniyah city, with tap water sourced from the Dokan Dam. Ceramic clay pots, selected for their availability and affordability, were used to treat the tap water. The experiment measured the pH of untreated tap water and compared it to water stored in clay pots over a 24-hour period for 12 weeks. A paired t-test was used to analyze the difference in pH levels between untreated and treated water across two seasons, autumn and winter. Results: The results showed a significant increase in the pH levels of tap water after treatment with clay pots. In autumn, pH values rose by an average of 2.86, while in winter, the increase averaged 2.66. Statistical analysis confirmed highly significant differences in pH between untreated and treated water for both seasons (p = 0.000002), demonstrating the effectiveness of clay pots in raising water alkalinity. Conclusion: The study concluded that clay pots offer a simple and cost-effective method to increase the alkalinity of tap water, improving its quality. This approach can benefit public health, particularly in regions with limited access to advanced water treatment technologies. Further research is needed to explore the long-term effects and broader applications of using clay pots for water treatment.

Simplified oxygen-limited thermal treatment without tube furnace and inert gas

The article introduces a cost-effective and user-friendly alternative to traditional pyrolysis techniques, obviating the necessity for intricate tube furnaces and inert gas environments. This novel approach employs materials capable of reacting with and sequestering oxygen to establish an oxygen-depleted atmosphere. The experimental setup entails positioning a crucible containing the sample inside a ceramic pot, enveloped by varying sizes of wood coal particles, and subsequently subjecting the ceramic pot to furnace conditions. Utilizing this oxygen-limited strategy, a biochar sample, derived via hydrothermal processing, underwent carbonization at 650°C for 6.5 hours, with outcomes compared against ambient condition carbonization under identical temperature and duration parameters. Gravimetric analysis revealed that wood coal effectively curtails oxygen availability, augmenting biochar yield from 1.53 % to 19.50 %. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) indicates diminished oxygen functional groups, while X-ray diffraction (XRD) and field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) affirmed a denser, compact carbon structure in biochar produced under oxygen-restricted conditions versus ambient conditions. The carbon content percentage in biochar samples treated at 650°C for 6.5 hours under both conditions was assessed via energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) data. The emergence of a novel carbon nanomaterial, derived from biomass waste through our oxygen-limiting method, may exhibits applications in energy storage and water purification. Our approach offers simplicity, cost-efficiency, and straightforward implementation while upholding the integrity of pyrolysis/thermal treatment within inert conditions, ensuring the robustness of the procedure.