Feeding Method Research Articles

Father support breastfeeding self-efficacy positively affects exclusive breastfeeding at 6 weeks postpartum and its influencing factors in Southeast China: a multi-centre, cross-sectional study

BackgroundThe exclusive breastfeeding condition in China is not optimism now. Maternal breastfeeding self-efficacy stands as a pivotal factor influencing exclusive breastfeeding. Interestingly, studies have suggested that father support breastfeeding self-efficacy is a pivotal mediator in infant breastfeeding. Thus, the current research aimed to investigate the association between father support breastfeeding self-efficacy and exclusive breastfeeding at six weeks postpartum, and the influencing factors of father support breastfeeding self-efficacy.MethodsThis research was structured as a multi-centre cross-sectional study, involving 328 fathers, whose partners were six weeks postpartum, and recruited from two public hospitals in Southeast China. Self-designed demographic questionnaires, namely, Father Support Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy Scale-Short Form, Breastfeeding Knowledge Questionnaire, Positive Affect Scale and the 14-item Fatigue Scale, were applied. Descriptive statistics, Chi-square test, logistic regression univariate analysis and multiple linear regression were used to analyse data.ResultsResults indicate a significant difference between the infant feeding methods at six weeks postpartum and fathers with different levels of support breastfeeding self-efficacy (p < 0.05). Particularly, father support breastfeeding self-efficacy positively affected exclusive breastfeeding at six weeks postpartum after adjusting all the demographic characteristics of fathers (OR: 2.407; 95% CI: 1.017–4.121). Moreover, results show that the significant influencing factors of father support breastfeeding self-efficacy include breastfeeding knowledge, fatigue, positive affect, successfully experienced helping mothers to breastfeed, spousal relationships and companionship time.ConclusionsHigh-level father support breastfeeding self-efficacy effectively increased exclusive breastfeeding rate at six weeks postpartum. To enhance the exclusive breastfeeding rate, nurses or midwives can endeavour to design educational programmes or take supportive interventions customised for fathers, such as enhancing their breastfeeding knowledge education, reducing fatigue and mobilising positive emotions, thereby bolstering paternal self-efficacy in breastfeeding.

Knowledge, attitudes and support practices related to breastfeeding promotion of doctors and nurses in Motheo district, Free State province, South Africa

Background: Breastfeeding is widely acknowledged as the optimal method of infant feeding. However, the percentage of South African mothers who exclusively breastfeed remains alarmingly low. Healthcare workers (HCWs) are pivotal in promoting breastfeeding; however, a deficiency in their knowledge, negative attitudes, and unfavourable practices can impede the promotion and support of breastfeeding. Aim: To assess the knowledge, attitudes, and support practices related to breastfeeding promotion of HCWs in the Motheo district, Free State province, compared with the 2016 WHO Guideline updates on HIV and infant feeding and 2018 Mother-Baby Friendly initiative guidelines. Methods: A quantitative analytical cross-sectional study involving paediatricians, obstetricians, general practitioners (GPs), and midwives was conducted using a self-administered questionnaire. Results: Over half of the HCWs (59%) were able to define exclusive breastfeeding (EBF), with a significant majority of GPs (76.1%) and midwives (78.6%) recommending EBF up to six months, compared with only 10% of paediatricians and 25% of obstetricians (p < 0.001). Some 11.1% of the total group of HCWs reported that breastfeeding is contraindicated for HIV-infected mothers, while 15.4% were unsure of the recommendation for breastfeeding among HIV-infected mothers. A higher proportion of midwives, compared with other HCWs, felt highly confident in providing breastfeeding advice (p < 0.001). Additionally, more than half (56%) of HCWs had not completed the 20-hour WHO Lactation Management Training, and 55% believed their prior breastfeeding training was not sufficient to support and educate breastfeeding mothers. Conclusion: Regular breastfeeding training of HCWs on the latest breastfeeding guidelines is necessary to equip HCWs with the knowledge and competence to successfully promote, protect, and support breastfeeding.

Survey of Breastfeeding and Colostrum knowledge and Practices Among Moroccan Women: a hospital-based study

Objective In this study, our aim was to explore the knowledge and practice of breastfeeding and colostrum among Moroccan women. Material and methods this is a cross-sectional study. Data was collected from a sample of 100 Moroccan women through a 16-question questionnaire. Results and discussion The results revealed that a significant portion (74%) of the sample, had already made the decision to breastfeed before their pregnancies. Additionally, an overwhelming majority, 98% of the participants, fed their newborns with colostrum, reflecting a widespread acceptance and understanding of its importance with only a small minority opting for alternative feeding methods. Conclusion To promote better breastfeeding practices, it is crucial to address the knowledge gaps through targeted educational interventions that emphasize the importance of colostrum and provide accurate information particularly among women and expectant mothers. Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol. 23 No. 04 October’24 Page : 1159-1167

Feeding Method, Nicotine Exposure, and Growth during Infancy

ObjectiveTo answer three questions: 1) Are infants breastfed by smokers at risk of rapid weight and length gain? 2) Is rapid growth during infancy partially attributable to ingestion of smokers’ breastmilk? 3) If so, what are the implications for breastfeeding by smokers? Study DesignUsing data from the Norwegian Mother, Father and Child Cohort Study and Medical Birth Registry of Norway (N=54,522) we examined changes in weight, length, weight-for-length z-score (WFLZ) during infancy in the context of maternal smoking (0, 1-10, >10 cigarettes/day) and feeding method during the first 6 months (breastfed, formula-fed, mixed-fed). We fit generalized linear models, adding a smoking by feeding method interaction term to evaluate the effect of ingesting smokers’ breastmilk. ResultsBreastfed infants of both light and heavy smokers experienced WFLZ gains of 0.05 (95% CI: 0.01, 0.09), and 0.13(95% CI: 0.07, 0.18) respectively. Among mixed-fed infants, only heavy maternal smoking predicted WFLZ gain (0.10; 95% CI: 0.05, 0.16). Among exclusively formula-fed infants maternal smoking did not predict rapid growth. Interaction models suggest that infants ever-breastfed (i.e., breastfed and mixed-fed groups combined) by heavy smokers gained weight (100 grams; 95%CI: 30, 231) and length (2.8 mm; 95%CI:0.1, 5.6) attributable to ingesting smoker’s breastmilk. ConclusionsInfants breastfed by smokers experience rapid growth, some of these gains are attributable to ingesting smokers’ breastmilk. Among infants breasted by light smokers, these gains are within the range of normative growth patterns for healthy, breastfed infants.

Volatile Flavor Analysis in Yak Meat: Effects of Different Breeds, Feeding Methods, and Parts Using GC-IMS and Multivariate Analyses.

This study investigates the effects of breeds, feeding methods, and parts on the volatile flavor of yak meat. Gas chromatography-ion mobility spectrometry (GC-IMS) and multivariate analysis were used to analyze the volatile organic components (VOCs) in yak meat from various sources. A total of 71 volatile compounds were identified, 53 of which were annotated based on the GC-IMS database. These include 20 alcohols, 16 ketones, 10 aldehydes, four alkenes, one ester, one acid, and one furan. Using VOC fingerprinting and multivariate analysis, yak meats from different sources were distinctly categorized. Breed had the most significant impact on yak meat VOCs, followed by feeding method and then part. Six volatiles with a variable importance in projection value greater than one were identified as potential markers for distinguishing yak meat. This study offers insights into the flavor profile of yak meat from different sources and demonstrates the efficacy of GC-IMS and multivariate analysis in characterizing and discriminating meats.

Factors Influencing Management of Enteral Nutrition Among Nurses in Health Facilities of Kisumu County, Kenya

Context: Enteral Nutrition (EN) is a feeding method through the gastrointestinal tract used in patients whose oral intake is not possible. Over 3 million people receive EN globally annually. Nurses play a key role in EN, but despite the progress, studies have demonstrated approaches that are not in line with approved standards. Aim: To evaluate factors influencing management of enteral nutrition among nurses in health facilities of Kisumu County. Methods: A cross-sectional, analytical study was conducted in two government hospitals and two private hospitals in Kisumu County, namely, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital, Kisumu County Referral Hospital, Aga Khan Hospital, and Avenue Hospital. A total of 135 participants were selected using systematic random sampling. Twelve key informants were interviewed. Data collection tools included a structured self-administered questionnaire, a nurses' practice observation checklist, and an interview guide. Results: Most participants were females (68.2%) and 31.8% males, with a mean age of 34.2±8.4. The use of well-displayed guidelines influences EN (p-value 0.03). Nurses' level of knowledge influences EN, though with minimal significance. The average total knowledge score was 80.7%. Total nurses’ performance shows that 85.2% had a satisfactory performance level. Conclusion: EN is an essential intervention in the healing process and can be influenced by well-displayed guidelines. The findings indicated that nurses' knowledge can influence the management of enteral nutrition. The study recommends that nurses focus on adhering to the recommended guidelines on EN that are well displayed and be knowledgeable and well-informed about updates on EN.

The Kumagai Method: Feeding Techniques Using the Pigeon Baby Cleft Palate Bottle.

This study aimed to identify the P-bottle feeding techniques systematically organized by Ms. Kumagai, an expert in nursing care for children with a cleft lip and/or palate (CLP), which were developed as she gained expertise in feeding affected children. We recruited three nurses who had mastered the Kumagai method for feeding with a P-bottle. Through analysis of participants' voices and videos during interviews, we focused on aspects such as dealing with a closed mouth, inserting the nipple in cases of unilateral and bilateral CLP, dealing with the child's movements after insertion, and key considerations when squeezing the bottle. The interview analyses revealed numerous techniques used by nurses to manage the difficulties encountered while feeding children, ensuring successful provision of nourishment. Specifically, the nurses employed techniques such as placing the nipple along the midline of the child's tongue and varying the application of force on the nipple depending on the cleft type. The nurses reported that the objectives of these techniques were to prevent ulcer formation and encourage the use of the tongue, simulating original feeding movements. We explored feeding techniques and the management of associated challenges. Our results suggest that the "Kumagai Method" could be valuable in improving feeding practices.

Oral feeding practices in medically complex infants receiving prolonged high-flow nasal cannula support: A retrospective cohort study.

To characterise the feeding profile and care pathway for infants receiving prolonged high-flow nasal cannula (HFNC) respiratory support for management of a chronic condition at one facility from January to December 2021. Data regarding medical history, HFNC admission details (reason for HFNC, HFNC duration, flow rate), feeding outcomes and speech pathology care were collected from electronic records of HFNC-dependent infants (requiring HFNC ≥2-3 L/kg for ≥5 consecutive days). Infants with acute respiratory conditions (e.g. bronchiolitis) were excluded. This study included 24 participants (median corrected age at admission 5.3 weeks, range -6 to 18.6). Of these, 15 (60%) had a condition/s that affected more than one body system (e.g. congenital diaphragmatic hernia), requiring the care of multiple specialities. Median length of HFNC use was 37.5 days (range 11-188). Twenty (83.3%) infants were referred for speech pathology (SLP) input while on HFNC support. For those referred, frequency of SLP input was variable (0-3 sessions/week), and HFNC support requirements were the most common barrier to SLP intervention (n = 9, 45%). Twelve (54.5%) infants demonstrated improvement in their primary feeding method by discharge; however, only two (9.1%) infants were discharged on full oral feeds. This study demonstrates variability in oral feeding management in infants with prolonged HFNC-dependence at our centre. Respiratory support with HFNC was identified as a barrier to progressing oral feeding. Further research is required to determine if oral feeding can be safely undertaken in this cohort. This is imperative to ensure that long-term feeding outcomes are not negatively impacted by current practice.

The effect of Sb2O3 on optical, scintillation and service performance of Ce3+-ion doped gadolinium aluminosilicate glasses

Ce3+-doped gadolinium aluminosilicate glass has great potential as a scintillator in neutron detection and high-energy physics. Ce3+-doped gadolinium aluminosilicate glasses with different concentrations of clarifier Sb2O3 were prepared by high temperature feeding method, combined with crucible interlocking technology. Ce4+ ions were reduced to be Ce3+ ions by CO atmosphere in an interlocking crucible. The properties of glass with 0.7 mol% content of Sb2O3 are the best. The glass has a high density (>6.0 g/cm3) and high refractive index (nd > 1.74). Compared with the sample without clarifier Sb2O3, the light yield of the glass increased to about 2 times. From XPS results, it is concluded that the proportion of bridge and non-bridge oxygen in the glass is 58.83 % and 41.67 % respectively. The composition of bridge oxygen in the glass is high, so there are many silicon-oxygen polyhedrons, and the structure in the glass system is stable, which is beneficial to the light yield. It can be seen from the Ce3d spectrum that there is no third characteristic peak of Ce4+ at ∼916 eV, indicating that the content of Ce3+ is more than that of Ce4+. The presence of Ce3+ in the glass is excellent for scintillation properties.

Usefulness of RSV rapid diagnostic tests in hospitalised children

Introduction and objective: Respiratory syncytial virus is a major cause of lower respiratory tract infections, particularly in children under two years of age. Diagnostic methods include rapid antigen diagnostic tests, which have shown high specificity and variable sensitivity. The aims of this study were to verify the performance of these tests in hospitalised children, and to identify factors influencing the results. Materials and methods: The study enrolled children under two years old who were tested for respiratory syncytial virus using both rapid antigen diagnostic test and a cartridge-based nucleic acid amplification test. The sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values of the tests were calculated. The influence of symptoms and fever duration, socioeconomic conditions, presence of siblings, and feeding method were analysed. Results: A total of 164 patients aged 10 days to 24 months (median 2.5 months) were included. Sensitivity reached 75% (95% confidence interval: 67.3–81.7%), specificity – 100% (73.5–100%), positive predictive value – 100%, and negative predictive value – 24% (19.3–29.4%). Lower sensitivity was associated with longer duration of signs/symptoms, with the lowest value obtained in the group with 6–7 days of signs/symptoms – 47.4% (24.5–71.1%), which differed from the 2–3 days group (p = 0.005) and the 4–5 days group (p = 0.016). No association was found between sensitivity and patient age, socioeconomic conditions, presence of siblings, clinical course including fever, or feeding method. None of these factors affected specificity, positive or negative predictive value. Conclusions: The reliability of the rapid antigen diagnostic tests in cases of positive results appears to be high, though negative results should be interpreted with caution. Prolonged duration of signs/symptoms before testing might reduce the level of sensitivity.

Effects of Interactions between Feeding Patterns and the Gut Microbiota on Pig Reproductive Performance.

The feeding mode is an important factor affecting the reproductive performance of pigs. The composition and expression of the intestinal microbiota are closely related to the physiological and biochemical indicators of animals. Therefore, to explore the impact of different feeding patterns on the reproductive performance of pigs, this study collected reproductive performance data from 1607 Yorkshire pigs raised under different feeding patterns and conducted a fixed-effect variance analysis. Among them, 731 were in the artificial feeding (AM) group and 876 were in the feeding station feeding (SM) group. Additionally, 40 Yorkshire sows in the late gestation period were randomly selected from each feeding mode for intestinal microbiota analysis. The results of the analysis showed that, in the AM group, both the number of birth deformities (NBD) and the number of stillbirths (NSB) were significantly greater than they were in the SM group (p < 0.05). Additionally, the total number born (TNB) in the AM group was significantly lower than that in the SM group (p < 0.05). The results of the intestinal microbiota analysis revealed that at the phylum level, there were significant differences in nine bacterial taxa between the AM and SM groups (p < 0.05). At the genus level, the abundance of a variety of beneficial bacteria related to reproductive performance in the SM group was significantly greater than that in the AM group. Finally, fecal metabolomic analysis revealed that the contents of butyric acid, isovaleric acid, valeric acid, and isobutyric acid, which are associated with reproductive performance, in the feces of sows in the SM group were significantly higher than those in the AM group (p < 0.05). These results indicate that different feeding methods can affect the gut microbiota composition of Yorkshire pigs and further influence the reproductive performance of pigs through the gut microbiota-metabolic product pathway. The results of this study provide valuable insights for further exploring the relationships between feeding modes, intestinal microbial composition, and host phenotypes.

Formula with large, milk phospholipid-coated lipid droplets in late-moderate preterm infants: a double-blind RCT.

Limited evidence exists on the preferred feeding method when breastfeeding is not possible in late and moderate preterm (LMPT) infants. This RCT evaluates growth, safety, and tolerance of a concept infant formula (IF) with large, milk phospholipid-coated lipid droplets enriched in dairy lipids in LMPT infants with primary objective to demonstrate non-inferiority of daily weight gain from randomization to 3 months corrected age compared to a standard IF. LMPT infants were randomized before or around term equivalent age to either the concept (n = 21) or standard IF (n = 20). Forty-one breastfed (BF) infants served as reference. Due to unintended low recruitment, non-inferiority in daily weight gain could not be demonstrated for the Concept compared to the Control group, but was compared to the BF group. Other outcomes were similar between the formula groups, except for an apparent larger head circumference gain in the Concept group. No apparent differences in growth and body composition outcomes were observed between the Concept and BF reference groups. This small-scale study suggests the concept IF is a safe alternative for parents who choose IF to feed their LMPT infant. Larger trials are needed to better determine impacts on head growth or body composition. In a small group of late and moderate preterm infants, growth from randomization until 3 months corrected age of infants fed with a concept infant formula with large, milk phospholipid-coated lipid droplets was not -significantly different from infants fed a standard infant formula. Infants in the Concept group had non-significant larger gain in head circumference compared to the Control group; larger trials are needed to confirm this finding. Both formulas were well-tolerated, with no differences in adverse events. The concept formula is potentially a safe alternative for parents of moderate to late preterm infants who choose to use formula milk.

Assessing the toxicity of green Agaricus bisporus-based Cadmium Sulfide nanoparticles on Musca domestica as a biological model

The common housefly, Musca domestica, known for transmitting over 100 infections, was studied using green-synthesized Cadmium Sulfide nanoparticles (CdS NPs) from Agaricus bisporus. These CdS NPs were tested on third-instar larvae under laboratory conditions using dipping and feeding methods with concentrations (75, 100, 125, 150, 175, and 200 µg/mL). The toxicity, measured by LC50, was found to be 138 µg/mL for dipping treatment and 123 µg/mL for feeding treatment. Analysis with an energy-dispersive X-ray microanalyzer confirmed Cd accumulation in the larval midgut, indicating penetration of CdS NPs into the organism, which may potentially increase their toxicity. CdS NPs caused disruptions in Heat Shock Protein 70, cell apoptosis, and various biochemical components. Scanning electron microscopy revealed morphological abnormalities in larvae, pupae, and adults exposed to CdS NPs. Ultrastructural examination showed significant midgut tissue abnormalities in larvae treated with 123 µg/mL of CdS NPs. Our study demonstrated that green-synthesized CdS NPs from A. bisporus can effectively control the development of M. domestica larvae.

PSIV-26 Extent of use of supplemental feeding in beef cattle operations across the Southeast: A report of the regional survey

Abstract With input costs on the rise, researchers and producers, alike, are seeking alternative management strategies for profitable and sustainable beef production. Studies suggest that supplemental feed provided to grazing cattle may be used to offset some of the cost. However, there is a lack of knowledge on the extent of supplemental feeding programs in the southeastern US and which feeds may be used in these programs. Thus, the objective of this study was to better understand supplemental feeding practices and choices among beef producers in the southeastern US. To address this objective, a 24-question survey was distributed through Extension and commodity organizations to beef producers across the Southeast. This survey received 118 complete responses. The majority of respondents operated cow-calf production systems (65.6%) on either tall fescue or bermudagrass pastures (32.7 and 28.0%, respectively). Approximately 88% of these producers employed some type of supplemental feeding strategy, but there is no clear decision on whether commodity or byproduct feedstuffs were preferred. The leading commodity used was corn (61.4%), while common byproducts included whole cottonseed, corn gluten feed, and soybean hulls (17.1, 16.6, and 14.4%, respectively). At the end of the survey, the participants were asked to submit a sample of their byproduct supplements to have a nutritive analysis completed to better understand what nutritional components the products they are feeding contain and how they may vary from place to place. Some of the products that were sent in include whole cottonseed, cotton byproduct, corn gluten meal, distillers grain, chicken litter, and others. The nutritional test being run on these samples included crude protein and fiber analysis. The crude protein of the samples received ranged from 13.3% to 30.3% with an average of 21.5%. The fiber profile received ranged from 45.5% to 76.3% with an average of 59.9%. With the information recorded from these tests, recommendations can be provided on different feeding methods in both commercial settings as well as research settings.

Design and Manufacturing of Dielectric Resonators via 3D Printing of Composite Polymer/Ceramic Filaments.

Rapid technological advancements in recent years have opened the door to innovative solutions in the field of telecommunications and wireless systems; thus, new materials and manufacturing methods have been explored to satisfy this demand. This paper aims to explore the application of low-cost, commercially available 3D-printed ceramic/polymer composite filaments to design dielectric resonators (DRs) and check their suitability for use in high-frequency applications. Three-dimensional printing was used to fabricate the three-dimensional dielectric resonant prototypes. The filaments were characterized in terms of their thermal and mechanical properties and quality of printability. Additionally, the filaments' dielectric properties were analyzed, and the prototypes were designed and simulated for a target frequency of ~2.45 GHz. Afterward, the DRs were successfully manufactured using the 3D printing technique, and no post-processing techniques were used in this study. A simple and efficient feeding method was used to finalize the devices, while the printed DRs' reflection coefficient (S11) was measured. Results on prototype size, manufacture ease, printability, cost per volume, and bandwidth (BW) were used to evaluate the materials' suitability for high-frequency applications. This research presents an easy and low-cost manufacturing process for DRs, opening a wide range of new applications and revolutionizing the manufacturing of 3D-printed high-frequency devices.

A Droplet Generator Using Piezoelectric Ceramics to Impact Metallic Pellets.

Metal micro-droplet ejection technology has attracted attention for its potential applications in the rapid prototyping of micro-metal parts and microelectronic packaging. The current micro-droplet ejection device developed based on this technology faces challenges such as the requirement of a micro-oxygen ejection environment, a complex feeding structure, and high costs. Therefore, a drop-on-demand droplet generator for metallic pellets with impact feed ejection is designed in this paper. This device has a simple and compact structure, does not require a high-cost heat source, and can perform drop-on-demand ejection of metallic pellets in an atmospheric environment. A micro-channel feeding method based on piezoelectric ceramic actuator drives is proposed. A rigid dynamics metallic pellet flight trajectory model is established to analyze the relationships between the driving voltage and the flight trajectory of the pellets. With the help of Fluent to simulate and analyze the melting and ejection processes of the pellets inside the nozzle, the changes in the variable parameters of the flow field in the process of the melting and flight of a single molten drop are studied. The droplet generator produces stable droplets with a 500 µs pulse width and 1100 mm/s initial velocity of the projectile. The simulation results show that a single projectile has to go through three stages including feeding, melting, and ejecting, which take 39.5 ms, 7.85 ms, and 17.65 ms. The total simulation time is 65.0 ms. It is expected that the injection frequency of the metal projectile droplet-generating device will reach 15 Hz.

Postoperative Feeding in Cleft Surgery: A Systematic Review.

Postoperative feeding is crucial for the recovery of children after cleft surgery. The literature outlines diverse feeding methods with varying recommendations on the duration of non-nipple feeding postsurgery. This study aims to explore reported postoperative feeding modalities for infants undergoing primary cleft lip/palate repair, concentrating on their influence on feeding improvement and complication reduction. PubMed, Cochrane, and Web of Science databases were queried for original English articles without any date restrictions. This review was conducted in accordance with the 2020 PRISMA. The MINORS criteria was used to assess quality of studies. Of 696 abstracts, 9 full-text articles were included, consisting of 459 children with cleft lip (n = 221) & cleft lip/palate (n = 238). Feeding modalities included bottle, breastfeeding, spoon, syringe, and nasogastric tube. Two studies found a significant increase in weight with breastfeeding compared to spoon or cup. Two studies found partial wound dehiscence using spoons, and two studies reported dehiscence using bottles. Post-palatoplasty, two studies showed a decrease in hospital stay in infants breastfed (2.1 & 5.8 days) vs spoon-fed (6 days). Analgesia was reduced in the breastfed group vs spoon/nasogastric tube. This review highlights the importance of postoperative feeding in the recovery of infants with cleft lip/palate. Evidence suggests that breastfeeding may offer advantages in terms of weight gain and reduced hospital stay, while potentially minimizing the need for postoperative analgesia. The limited number of studies and variability in their outcomes underscore the need for further research to establish evidence-based guidelines for postoperative feeding.

Two-stage microreactor with intensely swirling flows: Comparison of three methods of liquids feeding

A two-stage microreactor with intensely swirling flows (MRISF-2) allows to perform effectively two subsequent reactions in synthesis of nanosized particles. Micromixing quality plays crucial role in ultrafast co-precipitation reactions, and depends both on the specific energy dissipation rate and on the geometry of the reactor as well as the solutions feeding manner. Solutions in MRISF-2 could be supplied by different ways: through the upper and/or lower tangential inlet pipes and through the central (axial) inlet pipe. This paper is aimed to compare experimentally and numerically three ways of liquid solutions feeding in MRISF-2 with objective to find the conditions of the highest specific energy dissipation rate. The best method of solutions supplying was found experimentally and confirmed numerically: one solution is supplied tangentially, the other through the central inlet pipe. The average specific energy dissipation rate for this method is 1.7 and 6.0 times higher compared to supply through two upper tangential inlet pipes and upper + lower tangential inlet pipes, respectively. This advantage was confirmed by measurements of segregation index Xs by use of iodide-iodate reaction technique. Good agreement between experimental and numerical simulation results for energy dissipation rate was found for all studied cases.

Simulation and Design of Three 5G Antennas

In the context of 5G networks, this paper investigates microstrip array antennas and mobile terminal MIMO array antennas. It introduces two innovative designs and, based on these, develops and fabricates a mobile terminal antenna. The first of these designs, a 4 × 4 microstrip array antenna operating in the LTE band 42 (3.4–3.6 GHz), is researched and fabricated and an innovative approach, combining embedded and coaxial feeding methods, is proposed and employed. Measurement results indicate a bandwidth of 373 MHz (3.321–3.694 GHz), achieving a relative bandwidth of 10.7%. The antenna exhibits a high gain of 12.7 dBi, with an undistorted radiation pattern, demonstrating excellent directional characteristics. The second of these designs, a “loop-slot” MIMO antenna designed for 5G mobile devices with metal frames, is investigated. By opening slots in the metal frame and integrating them into the antenna’s feeding structure, the decoupling principle is analyzed from the perspective of characteristic mode theory. This design shares resonant modes between the loop and slot antennas, allowing for the overlapping placement of the two antenna units. Experimental results confirm an isolation level exceeding 21 dB, with significantly reduced dimensions. Finally, an eight-unit MIMO antenna is designed and fabricated for 5G mobile devices with metal frames. Continuous optimization of the “loop-slot” module layout and unit spacing leads to a compact and miniaturized antenna structure. Measurement results show an isolation level exceeding 17 dB, radiation efficiency ranging from 65.8% to 73.7%, and an envelope correlation coefficient (ECC) below 0.03. Finally, an analysis of specific absorption rate (SAR) demonstrates excellent MIMO performance in terms of human body radiation exposure.

Influence of biological products on the productivity of high oleic sunflower hybrids

The study's objective was to evaluate the efficacy of biological substances in enhancing the growth, development, and productivity of high-oleic sunflower hybrids, aiming to increase seed yields and improve oil quality. An investigation was carried out in the Mykolaiv region throughout 2021-2023 to assess the efficacy of seven different foliar feeding methods in producing five high-oleic sunflower hybrids. The findings indicated that the application of foliar feeding had a beneficial impact on the measured variables, such as plant height, leaf area, seed count per boll, seed yield, and oil and oleic acid concentration in seeds. In particular, the P64HE133 hybrid demonstrated the highest average yield of 3.89 t/ha, followed by Columbi with 3.69 t/ha, with no statistically significant difference between them. Foliar application of Organic-Balance helped to increase the average seed yield to 3.58 t/ha, exceeding the results of other types of spraying. The use of biological products contributed to an increase in yield by 0.21-0.4 t/ha compared to control, as well as an increase in oil content by 0.6-2.1-5.3%. The overall impact of the combination of hybrid and foliar feeding methods on yield was the largest, amounting to 63.5%, where the impact of hybrid selection was 27.4%, foliar feeding – was 5.4%, and other factors had an impact of 3.7%. The findings suggest that the use of foliar feeding can significantly enhance productivity and enhance the quality attributes of sunflower seeds. The utilisation of these biological substances not only enhances seed production and oil content but also promotes more sustainable and robust plant development. Accordingly, the integration of such methods into agronomic practices can significantly improve crop productivity and increase the economic benefits of growing high-yielding sunflower hybrids