Redistribution Of Components Research Articles

Development of a Method for Optimization of the Process of Extraction of Values of Numerical Characteristics of Oil Feedstock Components from Graphical Data of Chromatographic Analysis

A variant of the algorithm has been developed to perform the procedure of automated recovery of numerical values of graphically represented chromatograph signal function, studying the component composition of heavy oil feedstock samples. The problem, which the developed method aims to solve, consists in the poor adaptation of chromatographs to the oil industry: oil is a natural raw material, which is not chemically pure, therefore not all numerical characteristics of the components contained in the investigated sample are fixed within the chromatographic study. In the current configuration of the method, the values from the chromatogram are recorded manually. The developed method takes as input data the images of oil chromatograms obtained in the laboratory, presented in the original black and white colour scheme. The output data of the method is an array of numerical values of coordinates reconstructed with a step of one pixel. The size of the error in the reconstruction of the values by the method is much smaller than the threshold set by the petrochemical laboratory. In addition to automating the indicated task, the array of obtained coordinate values was vectorized in order to use the vector as input data in the Transformer model to solve the problem of predicting the redistribution of hydrocarbon components of heavy oil under the influence of catalysts. As a result of the change in input data representation, the time required to obtain a prediction and the training time were reduced by a multiple, while the value of the average prediction error decreased.

Continuous Transformation from Membrane‐Less Coacervates to Membranized Coacervates and Giant Vesicles: Toward Multicompartmental Protocells with Complex (Membrane) Architectures

AbstractThe membranization of membrane‐less coacervates paves the way for the exploitation of complex protocells with regard to structural and cell‐like functional behaviors. However, the controlled transformation from membranized coacervates to vesicles remains a challenge. This can provide stable (multi)phase and (multi)compartmental architectures through the reconfiguration of coacervate droplets in the presence of (bioactive) polymers, bio(macro)molecules and/or nanoobjects. Herein, we present a continuous protocell transformation from membrane‐less coacervates to membranized coacervates and, ultimately, to giant hybrid vesicles. This transformation process is orchestrated by altering the balance of non‐covalent interactions through varying concentrations of an anionic terpolymer, leading to dynamic processes such as spontaneous membranization of terpolymer nanoparticles at the coacervate surface, disassembly of the coacervate phase mediated by the excess anionic charge, and the redistribution of coacervate components in membrane. The diverse protocells during the transformation course provide distinct structural features and molecular permeability. Notably, the introduction of multiphase coacervates in this continuous transformation process signifies advancements toward the creation of synthetic cells with different diffusible compartments. Our findings emphasize the highly controlled continuous structural reorganization of coacervate protocells and represents a novel step toward the development of advanced and sophisticated synthetic protocells with more precise compositions and complex (membrane) structures.

Continuous Transformation from Membrane-Less Coacervates to Membranized Coacervates and Giant Vesicles: Toward Multicompartmental Protocells with Complex (Membrane) Architectures.

The membranization of membrane-less coacervates paves the way for the exploitation of complex protocells with regard to structural and cell-like functional behaviors. However, the controlled transformation from membranized coacervates to vesicles remains a challenge. This can provide stable (multi)phase and (multi)compartmental architectures through the reconfiguration of coacervate droplets in the presence of (bioactive) polymers, bio(macro)molecules and/or nanoobjects. Herein, we present a continuous protocell transformation from membrane-less coacervates to membranized coacervates and, ultimately, to giant hybrid vesicles. This transformation process is orchestrated by altering the balance of non-covalent interactions through varying concentrations of an anionic terpolymer, leading to dynamic processes such as spontaneous membranization of terpolymer nanoparticles at the coacervate surface, disassembly of the coacervate phase mediated by the excess anionic charge, and the redistribution of coacervate components in membrane. The diverse protocells during the transformation course provide distinct structural features and molecular permeability. Notably, the introduction of multiphase coacervates in this continuous transformation process signifies advancements toward the creation of synthetic cells with different diffusible compartments. Our findings emphasize the highly controlled continuous structural reorganization of coacervate protocells and represents a novel step toward the development of advanced and sophisticated synthetic protocells with more precise compositions and complex (membrane) structures.

Examining Citizens’ Expectations and Perceptions About Service Quality in Public Sector: Adapting a Hybrid Public Service Quality Model to the Local Context

ABSTRACT The empirical study examines citizens’ expectations and perceptions about service quality in three major public institutions. The article adopts a quantitative approach. Citizens’ expectations and perceptions about service quality in the context of public institutions were examined through a questionnaire, utilizing a hybrid model of SERVQUAL with private and public service quality dimensions. The article presents the results of a quantitative study (sample of 310 citizens), distributed across three public institutions, illustrating factor, gap, paired correlation and one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) of survey data. For factor extraction, rotation and interpretation, the Oblimin rotation technique was used, determining inter-correlation among the public service quality factors. As for ANOVA analysis, Levene’s test was used to verify the homogeneity of variance assumption (the variance in scores for each group of customers). The findings of the study suggest the re-distribution of components under the refined service quality factors. Different items of initial service quality dimensions are rotated under newly created factors. Gap analysis reveals no variations in terms of citizens’ expectations across public institutions, but suggests significant differences among public entities in regard to perceptions of services acquired. Adapted Hybrid Public Service Quality model will assist public institutions in developing and tailoring service quality management systems to citizens’ needs. This is the first attempt to carry out a quantitative approach to researching Service Quality in public institutions. The primary contribution of the study is that it has tested a hybrid model for measuring perceived public service quality, integrating service quality dimensions both from public and private sectors and proposed a refined model fit for the local context considering citizens’ characteristics and the current state of the public sector experiencing a shift toward modernization of services.

Advanced structure research methods of amorphous Co69Fe4Cr4Si12B11 microwires with giant magnetoimpedance effect: Part 3 – Cluster growth and crystal nucleation

This Part 3 focuses on the detailed study of the nanostructures forming in amorphous microwires which were previously received and described in the Part 2. The clustering process was studied at long-term DC Joule heating’s much lower the crystallization temperature. Particular attention is paid to the study of the redistribution of the components of the initial stage of crystallization. The studies were carried out using the Atom Probe Tomography method (APT), which allows for the identification of individually considered atoms. A description and analysis of APT data processing techniques are provided for studying the cluster structure and distribution of elements in the amorphous matrix and crystalline phases. To identify crystalline phases, data obtained using High-Resolution Transmission Electron Microscopy (HR-TEM) and Scanning Transmission Electron Microscopy (STEM), as well as X-Ray Powder Diffraction (XRPD) with synchrotron radiation source were used. The applied techniques made it possible to establish that the formation of nuclei of crystalline phases is preceded by three stages of the amorphous microwire matrix evolution. At the first stage, clusters of the first and second coordination spheres appear. At the second stage, the clusters coagulate and become more than 2 nm in diameter, the stage ends with the predominance of Co-rich and silicide Me-Si clusters. At the third stage, they grow to an average diameter of 4.5 nm, the predominance of clusters of this type remains, and the formation of nuclei of crystalline phases α-Co and Co2Si, with a size of about 8 nm, occurs. This stage is characterized by high stable soft magnetic properties. With a further increase in the heat treatment temperature, a gradual deterioration of the soft magnetic properties and further structural transformation occur – structures of joint crystalline phases from two crystalline phases α-Co and Co2Si are formed in the amorphous matrix, and crystallization occurs with the alternation of these two phases. This leads to a significant redistribution of alloy components. As a result, an amorphous barrier layer is formed in the amorphous matrix near the surface of the growing two-phase substructures, enriched in chromium and silicon; this layer affects the growth of crystalline phases, slowing it down.

Застосування індукційного топлення та постійного магнетного поля для впливу на перерозподіл компонентів з різними магнетними властивостями в зернах стопу на ос-нові Al–Cu–РЗМ

Застосування індукційного топлення та постійного магнетного поля для впливу на перерозподіл компонентів з різними магнетними властивостями в зернах стопу на ос-нові Al–Cu–РЗМ

COMPLEX MATHEMATICAL MODEL OF THE PROCESS OF LOADING A MULTICOMPONENT CHARGE INTO A BLAST FURNACE

The rational mode of loading the blast furnace is the most important condition for its highly efficient operation. The selection of rational values of the control parameters of the load mode is carried out on the basis of information obtained with the help of instrumental tools and mathematical models. Mathematical models of the process of blast furnace loading are necessary components of expert (intelligent) control systems for blast furnace melting. The presented complex mathematical model of the process of loading a multicomponent charge into a blast furnace differs from known developments taking into account the redistribution of components into the volume of loaded portions during movement along the path "charge feed - blast furnace", which provides the possibility of obtaining calculated characteristics of the distribution of each component of the charge and determining the composition of the formed mixtures of charge materials in any given zone of the furnace. The existence of such a model opens up new opportunities in the management of the blast furnace smelting process, as well as in conducting analytical studies of the conditions of slag formation and the distribution of properties of melts across the section of the blast furnace.

Ultrafine grinding improves the nutritional, physicochemical, and antioxidant activities of two varieties of whole-grain highland barley.

Effects of ultrafine grinding on the nutritional profile, physicochemical properties, and antioxidant activities of whole-grain highland barley (HB) including white highland barley (WHB) and black highland barley (BHB) were studied. Whole-grain HB was regularly ground and sieved through 80 mesh get 80 M powder, and HB was ultrafine grounded and sieved through 80 mesh, 150 mesh, and 200 mesh get 80UMM, 150UMM, and 200UMM samples. Particle size of WHB and BHB reduced significantly after ultrafine grinding. As the particle size decreased, moisture content of WHB and BHB decreased significantly, whereas fat content increased significantly. Redistribution of fiber components in WHB and BHB from insoluble to soluble fractions was also observed. Wherein, content of soluble pentosan of WHB and BHB increased significantly from 0.56% and 0.78% (80M) to 0.91% and 1.14% (200UMM), respectively. Damaged starch of WHB and BHB increased significantly from 8.16% and 8.21% (80M) to 10.29% and 10.07% (200UMM), respectively. Content of phenolic acid and flavonoid of WHB and BHB and associated antioxidant capacity were increased after ultrafine grinding. Color of L* value increased significantly, a* and b* values decreased significantly, indicating the whiteness of WHB and BHB was increased after ultrafine grinding. Pasting temperature of WHB and BHB decreased, whereas peak viscosity increased. X-ray diffraction patterns of HB showed typical A- and V-style polymorphs and the relative crystallinity of HB decreased as the particle size decreased. Taken together, ultrafine grinding has shown great potential in improving the nutritional, physiochemical, and antioxidant properties of whole-grain HB. Our research findings could help better understand the ultrafine grinded whole grain HB in food industry.

PRAGMATIC DEVIATIONS IN TRANSLATION OF LEXICAL BLENDS WITHIN POLITICAL DISCOURSE

The research touches upon the innovations in the English word formation processes, i.e., the role of analogy and intralingual borrowings as significant sources and ways of replenishing English vocabulary, interfering entirely with all the languages in the world and greatly influencing their development. Nominative units consisting of two or more words with a contraction of at least one of them at the place of a junction, i.e., blends, are an integral feature of the English language in general and modern English socio-political discourse in particular. Blending has been growing recently among the most productive means of word formation. Blends are needed to denote new concepts and phenomena and are often used to manifest the author’s word-formation skills; they become popular due to their expressiveness and novelty of form and content. The goal of the article is to study the functional features of blends as a means of strengthening the pragmatic component of the socio-political discourse, as well as the strategy and techniques of their translation. The general and special methods were used to achieve the goal and objectives of the study: information retrieval method – to select research material and process basic theoretical knowledge; generalization method – to highlight the most critical academic positions; deduction and induction – to clarify the theoretical foundations, generalize data and formulate conclusions; discourse analysis – to identify specific communicative and pragmatic features of socio-political communication; contextual and functional methods – to actualize the linguopragmatic meaning of the lexical units under the study, i.e., blends; the vocabulary definitions analysis – to examine their linguopragmatic peculiarities; structuralsemantic and component analysis – to determine the ways of blend formation and their main structural elements – all this is necessary for the implementation of translation analysis. The use of pragmalinguistic elements (blends, in our case) involves investigating relationships between language units and the conditions of the communicative-pragmatic space, tracing the relationship between the addressee’s intentional component and the choice of language means when translating the studied units within the socio-political discourse into another language. Conclusions. Regarding the focus of socio-political discourse on speech influence, the conveying of blend stylistics and the transfer of speech realia that form the basis of the blend implication and strengthen the socio-pragmatics of the given text cause difficulties in comprehending the English original and translation variants. The study of the translation aspect of blends within socio-political discourse revealed a lot of challenges, such as the need for a unique means for conveying blend semantics in the translation language, the complex nature of blend explication, and the problem of their interpretation. Among the translation techniques that are most effective in overcoming the outlined translation difficulties of socio-political blends, such ones should be mentioned first: transcription, transliteration, tracing, and creating an analogical model. The descriptive translation method is considered inappropriate when translating political blends (under research) because such a technique does not allow conveying pragmatics of blends and implement them in the translation language as expressive lexical and stylistic units that are components of speech influence on the addressee, and the society as a whole. The principles of the techniques studied in the article can be used for further research as being universal for translating English blends in inflectional languages (Ukrainian including), where such a phenomenon is non-typical. The process of blending hypothetically proves the activation of the redistribution of components within the different language structures and systems and their ability to self-reorganize.

The dynamics of the electrotactic reaction of mouse 3T3 fibroblasts

The molecular mechanisms behind electrotaxis remain largely unknown, with no identified primary direct current electric field (dcEF) sensor. Two leading hypotheses propose mechanisms involving the redistribution of charged components in the cell membrane (driven by electrophoresis or electroosmosis) and the asymmetric activation of ion channels. To investigate these mechanisms, we studied the dynamics of electrotactic behaviour of mouse 3T3 fibroblasts.We observed that 3T3 fibroblasts exhibit cathodal migration within just 1 min when exposed to physiological dcEF. This rapid response suggests the involvement of ion channels in the cell membrane. Our large-scale screening method identified several ion channel genes as potential key players, including the inwardly rectifying potassium channel Kir4.2. Blocking the Kir channel family with Ba2+ or silencing the Kcnj15 gene, encoding Kir4.2, significantly reduced the directional migration of 3T3 cells. Additionally, the levels of the intracellular regulators of Kir channels, spermine (SPM) and spermidine (SPD), had a significant impact on cell directionality. Interestingly, inhibiting Kir4.2 resulted in the temporary cessation of electrotaxis for approximately 1–2 h before its return. This observation suggests a two-phase mechanism for the electrotaxis of mouse 3T3 fibroblasts, where ion channel activation triggers the initial rapid response to dcEF, and the subsequent redistribution of membrane receptors sustains long-term directional movement.In summary, our study unveils the involvement of Kir channels and proposes a biphasic mechanism to explain the electrotactic behaviour of mouse 3T3 fibroblasts, shedding light on the molecular underpinnings of electrotaxis.

Adhesion failure mechanism of asphalt-aggregate interface under an extreme saline environment: A molecular dynamics study

The extreme saline environment seriously threatens the service life of asphalt pavement. The interface adhesion failure between asphalt and aggregate is fundamental to pavement diseases. Therefore, the interface of asphalt-NaCl solution-mineral was simulated by molecular dynamics to investigate the adhesion failure mechanism between asphalt and aggregate in an extremely saline environment. The results show that the polarization-inducing effects of sodium and chloride ions promote the cross-sectional diffusion of the NaCl solution at the interfaces and contribute to the redistribution and rediffusion of asphalt components, and the formation of hydrogen bonds between water and asphalt components. The NaCl solution prevents the accumulation of saturates, resins, and asphaltenes on the SiO2 surface, and strips aromatics from the SiO2 surface due to the interaction. Sodium ions can be attracted to the oxygen atoms on CO32– to occupy active sites on the CaCO3 than asphalt, which makes it easier for chloride ions to penetrate the asphalt molecule and asphalt components to detach from CaCO3. These behaviors effectively impair the adhesion at the asphalt-mineral interface. The 3 wt% and 20 wt% NaCl solutions have the greatest effect on the adhesion work of the asphalt-SiO2 and asphalt-CaCO3, reducing them by 55.93 % and 66.03 %, respectively.

Hydrogeological controls on formation of Patearoa saline site in Central Otago, New Zealand and definition of geoecological salt lines

ABSTRACT The Patearoa saline site in Maniototo basin has developed on variably clay-altered Otago Schist. Decomposition and sedimentary redistribution of schist outcrop components has led to formation of bare soil-free substrates (upper metre scale) with contrasting permeability to rain and shallow groundwater percolation. Relatively impermeable clay-rich substrates, with a surface crust (cm scale) of detrital clay and muscovite, are saline with electrical conductivity (EC) of 1–35 mS/cm and locally hyperalkaline (pH > 10), with evaporative mineral accumulations. These saline substrates are downslope of more permeable substrates consisting of coarse schist debris and fractured outcrops, which have lower salinity (EC < 1 mS/cm) and lower pH (<7). A salt line can be mapped at metre scale between these substrate types on hillsides. The geochemical contrasts across the salt line have strong effects on plant communities that are colonising bare ground. Initial colonisation of bare saline substrates by some plants changes the geochemical signatures of the surficial few centimetres to form proto-soil with lower EC and pH. Proto-soil development facilitates further colonisation by pasture grasses, but the underlying substrates remain saline and highly alkaline. Salt lines similar to the one at Patearoa are mappable elsewhere in the Otago area and constitute fundamental geoecological boundaries.

Interdiffusion in the formation of thin niobium films on singlecrystal silicon under vacuum annealing conditions

For the design of technological process for creating device structures based on niobium and single-crystal silicon with thedesired properties, empirical and theoretical knowledge about the solid-phase interaction process in the system of a thin niobium film is required. The purpose of the research was a comprehensive study of the redistribution of components during the formation of thin niobium films on single-crystal silicon obtained by magnetron-assisted sputtering followed by vacuum annealing. The structure and phase composition were studied by X-ray phase analysis, scanning electron microscopy, and atomic force microscopy. Distribution of components along the depth was determined using the Rutherford backscattering spectrometry. The traditional experimental method for studying the process of interdiffusion of components in binary macroscopic systems is the placing of inert marks. However, the use of this method in systems containing thin films is hindered by the comparable thicknesses of the films and marks. This circumstance makes the mathematical modelling the most convenient method for the analysis of the interdiffusion process in thin-film systems. The interdiffusion model during the formation of polycrystalline niobium film – single-crystal silicon systems, developing the Darken’s theory for the limited solubility components was proposed. Grain boundary diffusion of silicon in the intergrain space of a polycrystalline niobium film was proposed. Numerical analysis of the experimental distribution of concentrations within the model established that silicon is the dominant diffusant in the studied system. The temperature dependence of the individual diffusion coefficient of silicon DSi = 3.0 10-12exp(-0.216 eV/(kT)) cm2/s in the temperature range 423–773 K was determined. The model is applicable to the description of the redistribution of components in the thin niobium film – single-crystal silicon system prior to synthesis conditions providing the chemical interaction of the metal with silicon and the formation of silicides. It illustrates the mechanism of the possible formation of silicide phases not by layer-by-layer growth at the Nb/Si grain boundary, but in its vicinity due to deep mutual diffusion of the components

Association of Fe–Ti oxides in subalkaline dolerites of the Rai-Iz massif (Polar Urals)

The relevance of the research. Subalkaline dolerites, Fe–Ti oxides of which were studied in this work, occur within the largest deposits of chromium ores of the Rai-Iz massif. The study of the material composition and age of these rocks was carried out by the authors for the first time. The purpose of the research is to reveal the patterns of changes in the chemical composition of the main accessory minerals of rocks – titanomagnetite and ilmenite, and on the basis of the obtained data to evaluate the conditions for the formation of subalkaline dolerites of the massif. Research methodology. The chemical compositions of minerals were determined using microprobe analysis on a CAMECA SX 100 and scanning electron microscopy on a Jeol JSM-6390LV setup with an INCA Energy 450 X-Max 80 energy dispersive attachment. Raman spectra were obtained on a LabRam HR 800 Evolution spectrometer equipped with an Olimpus BX-FM microscope. The studies were carried out at the “Geoanalyst” сenter for the collective use of scientific equipment of the IGG, UB RAS. Results. The typomorphism of the chemical composition of titanomagnetite and ilmenite has been established for petrographic varieties of dolerites allocated on the massif. The T–fO2 parameters of dolerite formation were estimated and compared with metaultramafites. It is shown that titanomagnetite in amphibole dolerites undergoes maghemitization. The highest temperatures (1076–1126 °C) are recorded in pyroxene dolerites. The oxygen fugacity in these rocks is FMQ +0.6–+1 units. Hyalodolerite from the chilled margin of the pyroxene dolerite dike gives a temperature of 811–818 °C and an oxygen fugacity of 1.8 units above FMQ. The compositions of the associated ilmenite and titanomagnetite from amphibole dolerites correspond to fO2 = –2–0 units relative to FMQ and temperature 580–720 °C. The trend of change in T–fO2 parameters shows that the injection of the mafic melt occurred under conditions of metamorphism of ore-bearing ultramafic rocks. Conclusions. The formation of dolerite veins occurred under conditions of ultramafic rock metamorphism. The increased fugacity of oxygen at a relatively low temperature led to the maghemitization of titanomagnetite, rather than to the redistribution of components in the magnetite-ilmenite paragenesis.

Ultrafast magnetization and energy flow in the laser-induced dynamics of transition metal compounds

An electronic theory of the laser-induced ultrafast magnetization dynamics in transition-metal alloys is presented. A many-body model Hamiltonian is considered that incorporates the fundamental electronic hopping, local Coulomb interaction, and spin-orbit coupling (SOC) on the same footing. Exact time propagations are performed on a tetrahedral cluster, from which the time dependencies of the local spin moments, orbital occupations, and single-particle energies of homogeneous systems and binary alloys are obtained. The consequences of inhomogeneities in the laser absorption and in the SOC strengths are investigated giving emphasis to the nature of spin-density transfers between the alloy components. A local perspective on the optically induced spin transfer is proposed in terms of which two main steps emerge: a dominantly local optical excitation followed by hopping-driven spin-density transfers among the different alloy components. The conjoint action of the spin-orbit interactions at the origin of local spin flips and spin-to-orbital angular-momentum transfer and the interatomic hoppings responsible for charge, spin, and energy flows between different sublattices is demonstrated. Transient and steady-state dynamical regimes are identified that result in delays in the onset of the local demagnetizations and in ultrafast redistributions of the spin. The central role of electron delocalization and electronic hopping in the spin-density redistribution and demagnetization of the different alloy components is demonstrated.

Body composition in patients with heart failure

The redistribution of body composition components in heart failure (CHF) is an urgent and poorly understood issue. Despite the significant impact of a decrease in muscle mass, redistribution of fat mass on the course and prognosis of HF, body composition is rarely taken into account in the treatment of this disease. In this regard, the purpose of this review was to systematize the available data and draw the attention of clinicians to this problem. The data presented in the review make it possible to consider the components of body composition as controllable factors, the normalization of which improves the prognosis in patients with HF. The study of pathophysiological mechanisms for the development of body composition anomalies in HF will make it possible to search for new therapeutic targets. Assessment of body composition will make it possible to develop an individual strategy for the treatment of HF, including a set of non-drug measures.

Acidification-Induced Structure Evolution of Lipid Nanoparticles Correlates with Their In Vitro Gene Transfections.

The rational design of lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) for enhanced gene delivery remains challenging because of incomplete knowledge of their formulation-structure relationship that impacts their intracellular behavior and consequent function. Small-angle neutron scattering has been used in this work to investigate the structure of LNPs encapsulating plasmid DNA upon their acidification (from pH 7.4 to 4.0), as would be encountered during endocytosis. The results revealed the acidification-induced structure evolution (AISE) of the LNPs on different dimension scales, involving protonation of the ionizable lipid, volume expansion and redistribution of aqueous and lipid components. A similarity analysis using an LNP's structural feature space showed a strong positive correlation between function (measured by intracellular luciferase expression) and the extent of AISE, which was further enhanced by the fraction of unsaturated helper lipid. Our findings reveal molecular and nanoscale changes occurring during AISE that underpin the LNPs' formulation-nanostructure-function relationship, aiding the rational design of application-directed gene delivery vehicles.

STABILITY OF THIN QUASI-CRYSTALLINE Ti-Zr-Ni FILMS AND RELATED CRYSTALLINE PHASES UNDER LOW-ENERGY TRANSIENT PLASMA IRRADIATION

The properties of Ti41Zr38.3Ni20.7 thin films under radiation-thermal action of hydrogen plasma with a surface heat load of 0.2 MJ/m2 was studied at the QSPA Kh-50 quasi-stationary plasma accelerator (NSC KIPT).The phase composition, structural state, and surface morphology were studied using X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy. It was found that the quasicrystalline phase and related crystalline phases, the Laves phase, the α-solid solution, and the 2/1 phase of the Ti-Zr-Ni approximant crystal were stable under irradiation with up to 20 hydrogen plasma pulses. The phase composition did not change. It is shown that the changes in the coatings mainly manifest themselves as changes in the substructure of the observed phases. With an increase in the plasma exposure dose, the structure of the quasicrystalline icosahedral phase improves, and the size of the coherence regions increases. In the films consisting of crystalline phases, a partial phase transformation is observed with a redistribution of components between the 2/1 phase of the approximant crystal and the α-solid solution phase. It was found that thin films of the TiZr-Ni system containing a quasicrystalline icosahedral phase, irradiated with radiation-thermal plasma pulses, are less prone to cracking than coatings with crystalline phases of the same system.

Turbulence in Two-Phase Flows with Macro-, Micro- and Nanoparticles: A Review

Turbulent flows are nonstationary in nature. Since the turbulent fluctuations of most flow parameters satisfy a symmetric Gaussian distribution, the turbulent characteristics have the property of symmetry in the statistical meaning. A widespread simplest model of turbulent flows is the model of “symmetric” turbulence, namely, homogeneous isotropic turbulence (HIT). The presence of particles with non-uniform distribution of their concentration in the turbulent flow, even under HIT conditions, can lead to redistribution of different components of fluctuation velocities of the carrier gas, i.e., to the appearance of asymmetry. The subject of the review is turbulent flows of gas with solid particles. Particular attention is paid to the problem of the back influence of particles on carrier gas characteristics (first of all, on the turbulent kinetic energy). A review of the results of experimental and computational-theoretical studies of the effect of the presence of the dispersed phase in the form of particles on the parameters of the turbulent flow of the carrier gas phase has been carried out. The main physical mechanisms and dimensionless criteria determining the direction and magnitude of the impact of particles of different inertia on the carrier gas phase turbulence energy are described and analyzed. The peculiarities of the influence of particles on the turbulence energy of the gas for different classes of flows: homogeneous isotropic turbulence, homogeneous shear flow, and wall turbulence in a pipe (channel) have been considered. For the near-wall flow in the pipe, it is shown that the turbulizing effect of extremely low-inertia particles of sub-micrometer size (nanoparticles) is replaced by the laminarizing effect of low-inertia particles of micrometer size (microparticles), and then again it is replaced by turbulizing due to additional generation of turbulence in the wakes of large particles of millimeter size (macroparticles). The review is intended to some extent to fill in the currently existing gap associated with the absence of dimensionless criteria (or complexes of physical parameters) responsible for the direction (attenuation or enhancement) of turbulence modification, and the value of this change. Possible directions for further researches are given in the conclusion of the review.

Изменение конформации и распределения гемоглобина при изменении объема эритроцита

The intracellular space of red blood cells (RBC) includes 40% hemoglobin (Hb) molecules and 60% being water molecules. When the intracellular volume changes, which is possible when erythrocyte cells pass through the blood stream, the possibility of redistribution of intracellular components of the cell due to its volume changes is assumed. By methods of optical spectroscopy (non-invasive methods of infrared spectroscopy, Raman-spectroscopy, laser interference microscopy) changes of morphology, conformation and redistribution of Hb have been revealed in the human erythrocyte due to an increase in the ratio of [Na+]in and [K+]in when Na+/K+-ATPase is blocked in the cell. The decrease of activity of Na+/K+-ATPase by a ouabaine (3 mM) has been found to lead not only to an increase in [Na+]in cell but also to an increase in positive charge on the cytoplasmic surface of the RBC membrane. In these conditions, changes in the conformation of both the heme and globine parts of the cytoplasmic Hb have been identified. It has been shown that cell depolarization, together with cell volume change, leads to a decrease in packing density of Hb molecule, which may be related to sorption of intracellular Na+ (or Ca2+) c Hb, as well as increasing the amount of water molecules in the cell and redistributin Hb in the cell. These processes can lead to a change in the conformation of Hb, as well as to a redistribution and alteration of the conformation of the cytoplasmic Hb.