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In hilly areas, significant elevation changes necessitate the use of expensive pressure compensating drip tape to ensure safety and irrigation uniformity, which is economically unfeasible for developing countries. This article proposes a more cost-effective alternative: the use of inexpensive nonpressure compensating drip tape with a pressure regulator (PRL) installed at the inlet. Based on this approach, a low-cost modification of a hilly drip irrigation system with a maximum height difference of 53 m was achieved. The main conclusions are as follows: (1) A mathematical model was developed to account for the combined effects on the PRL outlet pressure, leading to a simulation method for assessing the hydraulic performance of drip systems with PRLs; (2) While maintaining irrigation uniformity (CU) greater than 90%, the system's one-time and average annual investments were reduced by 48.0% and 35.3%, respectively; (3) Taking the drip irrigation system researched in the manuscript as an example, the unit price of pressure-compensating drip tape must be less than 1 CNY/m (approximately 0.14 USD/m) to remain competitive in annual investment compared with the solution of installing a PRL at the inlet of non-pressure compensating drip tape. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study examines the effect of non-audit fees (NAF) provisions on interest payments classification shifting. In addition, we investigate to what extent the NAF economic bonding and interest payments classification shifting is contingent on internal governance and firm financial well-being. Design/methodology/approach: This study employed probit regression using a sample of UK non-financial firms indexed in FT UK (500) over the period from 2009 to 2017. Findings: We find evidence that the economic bonding of NAF between external auditors and their clients is more likely to encourage managers in UK firms to manipulate operating cash flows through interest payment classification shifting. In addition, and interestingly, our results evince that classification-shifting may be the less costly and soft choice of managers in firms with strong governance and charging higher NAF. Furthermore, we show that financially distressed firms associated with their auditors in purchasing non-audit services are more prone to attempting to manipulate and engage in interest payments classification-shifting. Our result did not provide a significant effect of external auditor tenure on the interest payments classification shifting. Research limitations/implications: Our findings are subject to the following limitations: First, this study uses a composite index to measure the quality of internal corporate governance. It focuses only on the board of directors, but this index does not reflect other internal governance mechanisms. Second, this study is subject to limited study time due to the implementation of key IFRS standards (IFRS 9 Financial Instruments and IFRS 15 Revenue from Contract with Customers) from 2018–2019. Practical implications: This study was motivated by the UK's Financial Reporting Council regulators' pressure on the Big 4 audit firms to move more audit time into main auditing activities, reduce cross-selling to audit clients and separate their audit practices by 2024. Overall, we provide new evidence that directs a close spotlight on the threats of NAF that are potentially useful to regulators, shareholders and investors. Originality/value: It is motivated by the UK's Financial Reporting Council regulators' pressure on the Big 4 to move more audit firm time into main auditing activities, reduce cross-selling to audit clients and separate their audit practices by 2024. Overall, we provide new evidence that directs a close spotlight on the threats of NAS that are potentially useful to regulators, shareholders and investors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Compared with the use of expensive pressure-compensating drip tapes, installing pressure regulators (PRs) at the inlet of cost-effective non-pressure-compensating drip tapes is obviously a more economical technology to achieve precision agriculture. However, most drip lateral PRs may not meet the requirements of the design and use of complex drip irrigation systems (hilly or large-scale systems), and there is seldom research on their application in drip irrigation systems, both restricting the promotion of this precision agriculture technology. In this paper, two types of PRs (A- and B-type) for complex drip irrigation systems are proposed, and compared with two conventional PRs (C- and D-type) under 9 different pressure and flow conditions of the drip irrigation system. The main advantage of A- and B-type PRs over conventional PRs is that their outlet pressures are scarcely affected by inlet pressure and flow. Therefore, A- and B-type PRs not only cope with large submain pressure differences, but also guarantee irrigation uniformity CU up to 90% in drip irrigation systems with different drip-tape lengths (flow range: 350-1400 L/h), while CU can be lower than 80% under the same conditions without PRs or using conventional PRs. When designing drip irrigation systems, the use of A- and B-type PRs can allocate greater pressure deviation to the laterals (hv2) to increase the lateral laying length, thus further reducing pipeline network investment. Under the requirements of maximum pressure deviation hv<40%o and submain pressure deviation hv1<20%, the results of hv2 with A-, B-, C-, and D-type PRs were 30%-35%, 30%-37%, 33%-35%, and 21%-27%, respectively. This research provides a device and method that can improve the irrigation uniformity of drip irrigation systems across a wider application range. Based on this research, users can reasonably select the PRs according to different design standards, significantly enhancing the irrigation uniformity of the system in a cost-effective manner. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents the "Three Gorges Hydrogen Boat No. 1", a novel green hydrogen-powered vessel that has been successfully delivered and is currently sailing. This vessel, integrated with a hydrogen production and bunkering station at its dedicated dock, achieves zero-carbon emissions. It stores 240 kg of 35 MPa gaseous hydrogen and has a fuel cell system rated at 500 kW. We analysed the engineering details of the marine hydrogen system, including hydrogen bunkering, storage, supply, fuel cell, and the hybrid power system with lithium-ion batteries. In the first bunkering trial, the vessel was safely refuelled with 200 kg of gaseous hydrogen in 156 min via a bunkering station 13 m above the water surface. The maximum hydrogen pressure and temperature recorded during bunkering were 35.05 MPa and 39.04 °C, respectively, demonstrating safe and reliable shore-to-ship bunkering. For the sea trial, the marine hydrogen system operated successfully during a 3-h voyage, achieving a maximum speed of 28.15 km/h (15.2 knots) at rated propulsion power. The vessel exhibited minimal noise and vibration, and its dynamic response met load change requirements. To prevent rapid load changes to the fuel cells, 68 s were used to reach 483 kW from startup, and 62 s from 480 kW to zero. The successful bunkering and operation of this hydrogen-powered vessel demonstrates the feasibility of zero-carbon emission maritime transport. However, four lessons were identified concerning bunkering speed, hydrogen cylinder leakage, hydrogen pressure regulator malfunctions, and fuel cell room space. The novelty of this work lies in the practical demonstration of a fully operational, hydrogen-powered maritime vessel achieving zero emissions, encompassing its design, building, operation, and lessons learned. These parameters and findings can be used as a baseline for further engineering research. [Display omitted] • Configuration of a zero-carbon emission vessel using green hydrogen fuel. • Engineering details of a 500 kW marine hydrogen and PEMFC system. • Hydrogen bunkering process, pressure, and temperature management. • Performance of a hydrogen-powered vessel during sailing. • Lessons learned from the design and construction of a marine hydrogen system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study conducts a comprehensive risk assessment for a selected hydrogen supply system within a pilot hydrogen power plant. The assessment begins with hazard identification through Hazard and Operability (HAZOP) analysis, followed by quantification using bow-tie analysis and consequence modeling to evaluate the impacts of credible scenarios resulting from random failures. Furthermore, a fuzzy Bayesian network is employed to address uncertainties inherent in the quantitative approaches and to account for event combinations and dependencies. Sensitivity analysis is subsequently conducted to identify critical events. Utilizing three quantitative approaches, fault tree analysis, the Bayesian network, without and with evidence updating, the probability of the top event is determined to be 4.52 × 10−2/year, 4.50 × 10−2/year, and 4.70 × 10−2/year, respectively. Additionally, the estimated firezone resulting from the explosion's 300 mbar overpressure was 12 m. The findings highlight the significant role of pressure regulator valve and pressure transmitter failures, with posterior probabilities of 0.17/year and 1.90 × 10−3/year, in ensuring the system's safety. [Display omitted] • A dynamic approach has been presented to assess the risk via Bayesian network. • The evaluation has been updated by the utilization of field evidence. • The critical nodes in system identified through sensitivity analysis method. • Fuzzy logic has been employed as a means of dealing with prevailing uncertainty. • Consequence modelling was conducted to enable quantitative analysis of scenarios. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, we employed a new ambient ionization mass spectrometry technique, sandpaper spray mass spectrometry (SPS‐MS), as an efficient tool to analyze pills and tablets of pharmaceutical formulations. The following samples were analyzed: regulators of blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes, and drugs for the treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED). Additionally, a hard candy of Cannabis sativa containing Δ9‐tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9‐THC) and its related isomer cannabidiol (CBD) was also evaluated. The surfaces of the samples, without any prior treatment, were sanded onto triangular‐cut sandpaper, and full MS scans (and MS/MS) were acquired in both positive and negative ionization modes. SPS‐MS (and MS/MS) allowed for prompt detection of the active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) in each formulation. Other components of the formulations, added as excipients, were also tentatively identified. The results described herein indicate that the SPS‐MS technique can be applied to fast screening of pills and tablets being potentially used as an efficient tool to detect counterfeit pharmaceutical and illicit products, a current issue of increasing concern. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

At gas distribution stations (GDSs), the process of throttling (pressure reduction) of natural gas occurs on gas pressure regulators without generating useful energy. If the gas expansion process is created in a turbine, to the shaft where an electric generator is connected, then electricity can be obtained. At the same time, the recycling of secondary energy resources is provided, which is an important component in the efficient use of natural resources. The obtained electric power can be supplied to the external power grid and/or used for the GDS's own needs. The process of generating electricity at the GDS from gas overpressure energy is an environmentally friendly, energy-saving technology that ensures an uninterrupted, autonomous operation of the GDS in the absence of an external energy supply. The power needs of a GDS with regard to electricity are relatively small (5 ÷ 20 kW). Expansion in throttling devices or turbine flow paths leads to gas cooling with a possible hydrate formation. It is prevented via gas preheating or vortex expansion equipment that keeps the further gas temperature at a necessary level. Turbogenerators can be created on the basis of vortex expansion turbomachines, which have many advantages compared to turbomachines of other types. This article studies how gas pressure (outlet: gas distribution station) and gas preheating (inlet: vortex expansion machine) influence turbogenerator parameters. Nine turbogenerator variants for the power needs of gas distribution stations have been assessed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Installing a pressure regulator for lateral (PRL) on a cost-effective non-pressure compensating drip tape inlet can greatly reduce system investment while ensuring system uniformity and safety. This approach plays a critical role in achieving low-cost, scalable precision irrigation systems in developing countries. Once the PRL is installed, it alters the hydraulic characteristics of the system. The lack of comprehensive evaluation standards for PRL that consider both irrigation uniformity requirements and PRL characteristics is impeding the widespread adoption and application of this technology. In this article, a comprehensive evaluation system for the PRL is established through a combination of theoretical deduction and field measurements. The main conclusions are presented as follows: (1) A comprehensive evaluation index is proposed for the hydraulic performance of the PRL, which considers both single-factor influences and multifactor influences such as manufacturing deviation, inlet pressure, and flow rate. (2) A statistical relationship was established between the comprehensive evaluation indices for PRL (CV) and irrigation uniformity (CU). The CV should be less than 10% for a CU above 90% and less than 17% for a CU above 85%. (3) Classification evaluations of PRL products were conducted based on their usage conditions, and a design selection chart for PRL products was provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The renin–angiotensin system (RAS)—a classical blood pressure regulator—largely contributes to healthy organ development and function. Besides, RAS activation promotes age‐related changes and age‐associated diseases, which are attenuated/abolished by RAS‐blockade in several mammalian species. RAS‐blockers also increase rodent lifespan. In previous work, we discussed how RAS‐blockade downregulates mTOR and growth hormone/IGF‐1 signaling, and stimulates AMPK activity (together with klotho, sirtuin, and vitamin D‐receptor upregulation), and proposed that at least some of RAS‐blockade's aging benefits are mediated through regulation of these intermediaries and their signaling to mitochondria. Here, we included RAS‐blockade's impact on other aging regulatory pathways, that is, TGF‐ß, NF‐kB, PI3K, MAPK, PKC, Notch, and Wnt, all of which affect mitochondria. No direct evidence is available on RAS/RAS‐blockade‐aging regulatory pathway–mitochondria interactions. However, existing results allow to conjecture that RAS‐blockers neutralize mitochondrial dysfunction by acting on the discussed pathways. The reviewed evidence led us to propose that the foundation is laid for conducting clinical trials aimed at testing whether angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEi) or angiotensin receptor blockers (ARB)—even at subclinical doses—offer the possibility to live longer and in better health. As ACEi and ARB are low cost and well‐tolerated anti‐hypertension therapies in use for over 35 years, investigating their administration to attenuate/prevent aging effects seems simple to implement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present paper provides a brief overview of the existing methods for energy separation and an analysis of the possibility of the practical application of the Hartmann–Sprenger effect to provide quasi-isothermal pressure reduction of natural gas at the facilities within a gas transmission system. The recommendations of external authors are analyzed. A variant of a quasi-isothermal pressure regulator is proposed, which assumes the mixing of flows after energy separation. Using a numerical simulation of gas dynamics, it is demonstrated that the position of the resonators can be determined on the basis of calculations of the structure of the underexpanded jet without taking into account the resonator and, accordingly, without the need for time-consuming calculations of the dynamics of the processes. Based on the results of simulating the gas dynamics of two nozzle–resonator pairs installed in a single flow housing, it is shown that, in order to optimize the regulator length, the width of the passage between the two nearest resonators should be greater than or equal to the sum of diameters of the critical sections of the nozzles. Numerical vibroacoustic analysis demonstrated that the most dangerous part of the resonator is the frequency of its natural oscillations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soft pneumatic robotics are designed for safe and compliant interaction with the environment or humans. However, the pneumatic systems used for actuation and protection are still relatively bulky and rely on rigid components such as solenoid valves and pressure regulators. This study presents the design and analysis of soft fibrous valves (SFVs) with internal tiny channels and external helical structures, which could be used in soft pneumatic systems. Made from soft material, SFVs demonstrate unique capabilities in controlling pressure by partial expansion under specific pressure. Three types of SFVs are designed: 1) SFV‐C is designed to protect soft pneumatic actuators by cutting off airflow under excessive pressure; 2) SFV‐M maintains pressure in actuators when the input pressure abruptly drops, preventing potential damage to the operated object; 3) SFV‐O produces oscillating pressure output without electronic control supplied by constant pressure source. Theoretical modeling and experimental validations are conducted to investigate the performance of the SFVs under various stretching, twisting, and pressure conditions. Furthermore, fully flexible SFVs are designed to enhance their compliance and resistance to external impacts. Overall, the SFVs offer promising solutions for pressure control and protection in soft pneumatic systems, enabling safer and more effective operations in various scenarios. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article is devoted to the study of increasing the efficiency of gas distribution stations through modernization and technical re-equipment. The problem of efficient use of the potential energy of natural gas at gas distribution stations of gas supply systems is considered. The reduction in gas pressure during the transition from the main gas pipeline to the distribution system is carried out by throttling in the reduction unit of the gas distribution station. In this process, the potential energy of the gas is lost without doing any work. The article proposes to increase the efficiency of converting the potential energy of gas into electrical energy through the introduction of turboexpander units. By recycling systems based on turbo-expander electric generating units and aggregates, they simultaneously reduce and regulate gas pressure during its expansion in the machine, as well as obtain mechanical work on the shaft and convert it into electricity. Increasing the efficiency of gas distribution stations is possible by a complete modernization of the station if it is economically reasonable or using limited, low-cost measures to reconstruct individual components or the piping of the station. The article analyzes the increase in energy efficiency of technological processes of a gas distribution station by the use of low-cost measures. Identification of capacity reserves of a gas distribution station and reconstruction of individual sections of the station in order to increase capacity make it possible to use the station under conditions of increased load, i.e. ensure compliance with the design and operational performance of the gas distribution station. A mathematical model has been formed to study the gas flow in the gas pipeline of the reduction line after the gas pressure regulator and the boundary conditions for carrying out calculations have been established. Using a mathematical model, the gas flow in the reduction line after the pressure regulator valve was simulated under different operating conditions. A thermodynamic calculation of one of the options for a low-cost measure is given. Results are presented that confirm the possibility of utilizing the energy of compressed natural gas during the reduction process, even with high irregularity of gas selection by consumers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article addresses the problem of designing an inverting regulator for controlling the pressure in a furnace for metal heating prior to rolling. Based on actual engineering data, a regression model is constructed with the elements of differential equations describing the in-furnace pressure with high accuracy, taking into account various technological factors (the position of the gate, the total gas flow into the furnace, and the operation of the metal unloading gates). Based on the obtained model and considering the features of the pressure circuits, a new discrete-continuous inverting pressure control method was designed and modeled, taking the operation of unloading machines into account. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In modern agriculture, which is characterised by dynamic field environments, challenges are faced in maintaining consistent application rates due to varying tractor speeds, field conditions, and certain calibration errors. Conventional control systems, which rely on slower valves, have difficulty adapting to these dynamic field conditions. By contrast, the integration of fast-acting proportional valves improves the precision and flexibility of flow rate adjustment during spraying applications. This research focused on evaluating the accuracy of spraying applications under different tractor speed conditions through field experiments and data analysis. This study involves a field sprayer with boom wings divided into right and left sections, where the flow rate of the liquid to each section is controlled by proportional valves with a 3 s full opening and closing time, dependent on speed information. Using a closed-loop control system consisting of a flow meter, proportional valve, and PLC, the valves are controlled by the PLC's internal PID blocks. Observations reveal that as the tractor speed increases to a certain level, the system effectively adjusts the application rate close to the target value and maintains control against the changing ground speed during all field tests. The study included five different application tests, with target application rates of 100, 150, 200, 250, and 300 L ha−1, with each repeated three times, resulting in a total of 15 field tests at different ground speeds. During these tests, the data were meticulously recorded every second, covering the tractor speed, flow rate, and pressure values for both right and left boom sections, along with regulator pressure, proportional valve opening rates, and application rates. The durations for each application rate were documented alongside instances within specified periods where error boundaries of ±10% were exceeded. During the total test duration of 9734 s, the actual application rate value exceeded error boundaries during only 209 s. Within the application durations, the speed variation intervals ranged from 5.10 to 10.23 km h−1, 4.64 to 9.91 km h−1, 3.68 to 7.89 km h−1, 4.80 to 8.21 km h−1, and from 4.90 to 8.69 km h−1. The absolute percentage mean application errors were recorded as 2.81%, 2.68%, 2.28%, 2.14%, and 2.51% for respective application rates. Furthermore, statistically significant correlations (p < 0.01) were identified among the variables (speed, valve opening rate, flow rate, pressure) in both the right and left boom sections across all application rates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the key strategies for radiochemical research facilities is the automation of synthesis processes. Unnecessary manual operations increase the radiation exposure of personnel, while simultaneously threatening the reliability of syntheses. We have previously reported an affordable open‐source system comprising 3D‐printed continuous flow reactors, a custom syringe pump, and a pressure regulator that can be used to perform radiofluorinations. In this paper, we address additional essential processes that are needed for radiotracer development and synthesis, with the aim of making laboratory work safer and research more efficient. We have designed and evaluated a fully automated system for rapidly and effectively processing and drying aqueous [18F]fluoride that can be directly connected to the cyclotron. This process relies on triflyl fluoride gas generation and allows nucleophilic [18F]fluoride to be prepared safely in a hotcell within 10 min and an activity recovery of 91.7 ± 1.6% (n = 5). Owing to the need for convenient radiofluorinated prosthetic ligands, we have adapted our continuous flow system to produce [18F]fluoroethyl tosylate (FEOTs) and [18F]fluoroethyl triflate (FEOTf), prosthetic groups that are widely used for late‐stage fluoroethylation of PET tracers. The processes as well as the radiolabeling of different groups are compared and comprehensively discussed. Having a method providing [18F]fluoroethyl tosylate (FEOTs) as well as [18F]fluoroethyl triflate (FEOTf) quickly and highly efficiently is beneficial for radiochemical research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 1948 journalistic scoop informed the public and broadcast regulators about misconduct on the airwaves. The investigation by Lee Zhito established Billboard—known for music coverage and song charts—as a legitimate journalism voice in the radio industry. Zhito exposed news slanting and editorializing by station owner George A. Richards, who expressed to staff his abhorrence of Blacks, Jews, Communists, and Democrats—especially Franklin D. Roosevelt. The Mayflower doctrine banned editorializing and advocated public service, yet Richards's views shaped news and commentary airing on KMPC in Los Angeles, WJR in Detroit, and WGAR in Cleveland. Zhito's exposé produced national ramifications, led to the first major FCC case addressing news slanting and broadcast licensee obligations, generated 18,000 transcript pages and one of the FCC legal department's most strongly worded documents affirming broadcaster public service. Journalists revealing secret practices can have a direct impact, pressuring industry and regulators to be more serious about upholding responsibilities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper aims at exploring the institutional pressures and accountability processes in pursuit of sustainable development goals (SDGs) in indigenous oil companies in Ghana. Applying a qualitative research strategy, semi‐structured interviews with 20 company managers and other industry stakeholders were used to collect in‐depth and rich empirical data. In pursuit of the SDG agenda, the indigenous oil companies appear to be sensitive to both internal and external stakeholder pressure. However, the coercive pressures from regulators did not always result in the companies implementing actual change. Instead, coercive pressures from non‐governmental actors have taken on the role of 'regulator' of organisational practices. Also, internal forces of change were mainly the foreign partner's audit pressure and management commitment to enhance company reputation. Beyond the institutional pressures to incorporate SDGs into business practices, the finding adds fresh perspectives to the three logical steps of SDG accountability processes used by the companies to track their contribution to SDG implementation and reporting, namely: data collection, SDG performance measurement, and communication of SDG outcomes. Finally, the study discovers that the companies are making little progress towards the achievement of the SDGs because of financial limitations, rigid organisational environments that prevent change, and a lack of a standardised institutional framework. The findings suggest that in order for an organisation to gain legitimacy, its SDG agenda must incorporate the concerns of non‐governmental actors and local communities into its corporate decision‐making. Failure to meet the needs of these essential stakeholders may jeopardise the legitimacy of organisation which will threaten its survival. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to solve the problem of frequent pressure fluctuations caused by fluid quantity variation in hydraulic support liquid supply systems and the pressure response lag caused by long-distance pipelines, an online updated radial basis function neural network (RBF neural network) control method was proposed for the long-distance liquid supply system. Based on the analysis of the measured pressure fluctuations of the mining face and the process of the stable pressure liquid supply system, the influencing factors of the stable pressure liquid supply flow demand were obtained. The flow set of the stable pressure liquid supply system was established and fitted in the SimulationX–Simulink co-simulation model and the online correction was carried out by using the characteristics of the repeated action of the hydraulic support. Finally, the online updating RBF neural network regulator was established to realize the pressure regulator control of the pumping station, and the experimental platform was set up for verification. The results show that this method can effectively reduce the pressure fluctuations caused by the change in the flow demand of the mining face, and can adjust the flow rate of the mining face, reduce the pressure impact, and improve the efficiency of the machine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study describes the activity of developing a force amplifier exoskeleton with one degree of freedom. The system was developed as a research prototype to conduct control system studies. The device consists of an arm with a pneumatic cylinder actuator controlled by a pressure regulator. As for the human–machine interface, the system has a force sensor. The idea is to verify the possibility of developing a simple system from the sensor system's point of view and the control system's architecture while simultaneously obtaining an effective, economical, and reliable device. The idea developed in this project is to use the user's available ability to control movements in unknown environments. The user constitutes the central part of the entire control system: he defines the references for the speeds and forces to be applied to the environment and observes the rates of the controlled robotic system through his own sight and proprioceptive system. On the other hand, the machine produces and controls the forces applied to the environment by the actuator. In this way, the device shows an increased admittance. A mathematical system model was created to verify the idea's feasibility. Following the results of the simulations, a prototype was built on which experimental tests were carried out. As stated above, it was possible to obtain the described behavior with the use of a force sensor, one-axis type, interposed between the machine and the user, to constitute the human–machine interface; using a pressure regulator, it was possible to avoid the sensors for the force feedback by the environment. The result is a simple architecture for the sensors and the control algorithm. Specific test protocols were proposed to test the performance of the human–machine "system", and a test bench was developed that allows the tracking of variable signals represented on a monitor, which the user must follow. The system is intuitive to use, with a rapid learning curve, and the user can handle high loads according to the different signals to be followed with good precision, even at high speeds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article was inspired by information in the literature regarding damage to medium-pressure diving hoses, which, as a result of the crystallisation of material on their inner surface and the detachment of particles, caused significant interference with the output of the pressure regulator. A dangerous consequent 'clogging' of the airflow in stage II of the breathing apparatus and an increase in the effort in the diver's lungs to overcome the increased breathing resistance resulted. This problem was investigated in the paper. Nozzles with reduced diameters were fabricated to simulate the deterioration of the automaton conditions. A suitably selected regulator from a domestic manufacturer's was used for the tests. A series of measurements was carried out in a breathing simulator for the established experimental conditions specified in the standard PN-EN 250:2014. Following the test, the results obtained were analysed and interpreted based on statistical description methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to produce and find out the results of the Smart System Stabilization Water Discharge Output Test on Android-Based Faucets based on the results of water flow sensor readings whose data is used as a reference for the rotation of the Adj or Adjustable Water Pressure Reducing Regulator Valve. The tests were carried out in the form of measuring water flow without and with Adj and measuring water discharge without and with Adj. Based on the research results, the water flow without Adj is 7 L/min for tap 1.9 L/min for tap 2. The water flow with Adj for both taps is 8 L/min. The flow of water from both taps is more stable with Adj than without Adj because the flow of both taps is 8 L/min. The measurement results of the water discharge without Adj are 0.1216 L/s for tap 1 and 0.1470 L/s for tap 2; the difference in water discharge is 0.0254 L/s. Water debit with Adj 0.135 L/s tap 1 and 0.14125 L/s tap 2, the difference in water discharge is 0.00625 L/s. The water debit is more stable with Adj than without Adj because the difference in water discharge is smaller. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cyclic peptides are poised to target historically difficult to drug intracellular protein–protein interactions, however, their general cell impermeability poses a challenge for characterizing function. Recent advances in microfluidics have enabled permeabilization of the cytoplasmic membrane by physical cell deformation (i.e., mechanoporation), resulting in intracellular delivery of impermeable macromolecules in vector‐ and electrophoretic‐free approaches. However, the number of payloads (e.g., peptides) and/or concentrations delivered via microfluidic mechanoporation is limited by having to pre‐mix cells and payloads, a manually intensive process. In this work, we show that cells are momentarily permeable (t1/2 = 1.1–2.8 min) after microfluidic vortex shedding (μVS) and that lower molecular weight macromolecules can be cytosolically delivered upon immediate exposure after cells are processed/permeabilized. To increase the ability to screen peptides, we built a system, dispensing‐microfluidic vortex shedding (DμVS), that integrates a μVS chip with inline microplate‐based dispensing. To do so, we synced an electronic pressure regulator, flow sensor, on/off dispense valve, and an x‐y motion platform in a software‐driven feedback loop. Using this system, we were able to deliver low microliter‐scale volumes of transiently mechanoporated cells to hundreds of wells on microtiter plates in just several minutes (e.g., 96‐well plate filled in <2.5 min). We validated the delivery of an impermeable peptide directed at MDM2, a negative regulator of the tumor suppressor p53, using a click chemistry‐ and NanoBRET‐based cell permeability assay in 96‐well format, with robust delivery across the full plate. Furthermore, we demonstrated that DμVS could be used to identify functional, low micromolar, cellular activity of otherwise cell‐inactive MDM2‐binding peptides using a p53 reporter cell assay in 96‐ and 384‐well format. Overall, DμVS can be combined with downstream cell assays to investigate intracellular target engagement in a high‐throughput manner, both for improving structure–activity relationship efforts and for early proof‐of‐biology of non‐optimized peptide (or potentially other macromolecular) tools. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, we introduce a low-cost open-source flow system that includes a dual syringe pump with implemented pressure sensor and back pressure regulator. The entire system can be built for around 500 €. Commercially available flow systems can be very expensive with equipment starting at, but often greatly exceeding, 10,000 €. This high price of entry makes such technology prohibitively expensive for many research groups. Such systems stand to benefit the emerging academic pharmaceutical field by providing the experience and availability of reliable and affordable solutions. To implement accessible flow chemistry at research facilities, the systems must be made affordable. In addition, space in research laboratories is usually limited and commercially available flow systems can be very bulky. Having a compact and individually adjustable system is thus beneficial, with 3D printing technology offering the solution. Our compact 3D-printed system meets the needs of many applications in flow chemistry research as well as educational requirements for universities. As a proof of concept, we conceptualized, developed, and tested a custom flow system that can be used to synthesize [18F]2-fluoro-2-desoxy-d-glucose ([18F]FDG), the most commonly used PET-tracer. This system was designed to perform the typical functions and operations required in radiotracer production i.e. radiofluorination, dilution, SPE-trapping, deprotection, and SPE-elution. With this proof-of-concept in hand, the system can be easily customized to produce other radiopharmaceuticals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research paper presents an integrated approach in dealing with the hydraulic models to investigate the impact of the reinforcement and maintenance work of the hydraulic structures, and presenting a case study of the El Bagoureya Regulator. The reinforcement works for El Bagoureya Regulator include the regulator's stilling basin, which will have to be filled with a reinforced concrete mattress, the extension of the central piers to the end of the winged wall, and finally the construction of a new concrete weir at the end of the winged wall downstream of the regulator. During the rehabilitation works, the flow will therefore pass through the navigation channel of the lock. The aim of the study is therefore to investigate the lock capacity to allow the maximum flows through at constant water levels and to meet the water demand. The study also examines the efficiency of the proposed solution and the impact on the hydraulic condition of the canal. The required protection and dredging both upstream and downstream of the lock were also studied. Therefore, A 2D numerical hydraulic model was integrated with a physical model at an appropriate scale as a near-field model. The results show a good correlation between the two models. The physical model confirmed the results of the numerical model and guaranteed the hydraulic efficiency of the proposed reinforcing structure. The results show that the proposed reinforcement works improved the flow pattern and the distribution of the flow velocity downstream of the pressure regulator. It also confirms that the navigation lock is capable of handling the high discharge during the rehabilitation works while maintaining the same operating water level. Finally, the physical model has ensured the stability of the proposed protection of the bottom upstream, downstream the navigation lock and downstream the regulator at the end of the stilling basin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Angiotensin I-converting enzyme (ACE) is an important blood pressure regulator. In this study, we aimed to investigate the ACE-inhibitory effects of meroterpenoids isolated from the brown alga, Sargassum macrocarpum, and the molecular mechanisms underlying ACE inhibition. Four fractions of S. macrocarpum were prepared using hexane, chloroform, ethyl acetate, and water as solvents and analyzed for their potential ACE-inhibitory effects. The chloroform fraction showed the strongest ACE-inhibitory effect, with an IC50 value of 0.18 mg/mL. Three meroterpenoids, sargachromenol, 7-methyl sargachromenol, and sargaquinoic acid, were isolated from the chloroform fraction. Meroterpenoids isolated from S. macrocarpum had IC50 values of 0.44, 0.37, and 0.14 mM. The molecular docking study revealed that the ACE-inhibitory effect of the isolated meroterpenoids was mainly attributed to Zn-ion, hydrogen bonds, pi-anion, and pi–alkyl interactions between the meroterpenoids and ACE. These results suggest that S. macrocarpum could be a potential raw material for manufacturing antihypertensive nutraceutical ingredients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: It is crucial to maintain the intracranial pressure (ICP) within the physiological range to ensure proper brain function. The ICP may fluctuate during the light-dark phase cycle, complicating diagnosis and treatment choice in patients with pressure-related disorders. Such ICP fluctuations may originate in circadian or sleep-wake cycle-mediated modulation of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) flow dynamics, which in addition could support diurnal regulation of brain waste clearance. Methods: ICP was monitored continuously in patients who underwent placement of an external ventricular drain (EVD) and by telemetric monitoring in experimental rats. CSF was collected via the EVD in patients and the rodent CSF secretion rate determined by in vivo experimentation. Rodent choroid plexus transporter transcripts were quantified with RNAseq and transport activity with ex vivo isotope transport assays. Results: We demonstrated that ICP increases by 30% in the dark phase in both species, independently of vascular parameters. This increase aligns with elevated CSF collection in patients (12%) and CSF production rate in rats (20%), the latter obtained with the ventriculo-cisternal perfusion assay. The dark-phase increase in CSF secretion in rats was, in part, assigned to increased transport activity of the choroid plexus Na+,K+,2Cl- cotransporter (NKCC1), which is implicated in CSF secretion by this tissue. Conclusion: CSF secretion, and thus ICP, increases in the dark phase in humans and rats, irrespective of their diurnal/nocturnal activity preference, in part due to altered choroid plexus transport activity in the rat. Our findings suggest that CSF dynamics are modulated by the circadian rhythm, rather than merely sleep itself. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The edge sharpness of a propeller blade plays a vital role in improving energy transmission efficiency and reducing the power required to propel the vehicle. However, producing finely sharpened edges through casting is challenging due to the risk of breakage. Additionally, the blade profile of the wax model can deform during drying, making it difficult to achieve the required edge thickness. To automate the sharpening process, we propose an intelligent system consisting of a six-DoF industrial robot and a laser-vision sensor. The system improves machining accuracy through an iterative grinding compensation strategy that eliminates material residuals based on profile data from the vision sensor. An indigenously designed compliance mechanism is employed to enhance the performance of robotic grinding which is actively controlled by an electronic proportional pressure regulator to adjust the contact force and position between the workpiece and abrasive belt. The system's reliability and functionality are validated using three different workpiece models of four-blade propellers, achieving accurate and efficient machining within the required thickness tolerances. The proposed system provides a promising solution for finely sharpened propeller blade edges, addressing challenges associated with the earlier robotic-based grinding studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a core component in the gas transmission process, the internal wall surface of a gas pressure regulator is prone to failure due to long-term exposure to a high-pressure gas environment, resulting in poor reliability of the regulator. Thus, a thermo-hydro-mechanical coupling model for the FL gas pressure regulator is established in this paper, and the thermo-hydro-mechanical coupling results are verified by engineering data. The effect of valve opening on the parameters (temperature, deformation, and stress) of the gas pressure regulator is studied in detail through simulation. The results show that the stress is greater at the sleeve, valve bore, and outlet valve seat wall under the opening of 20% of the regulator. Finally, the response surface method is used to optimize the regulator to obtain a good fit and high predictive ability of the response surface equation. The optimal parameters for the gas pressure regulator are as follows: the wall thickness of the sleeve is 7.25 mm, the diameter of the valve bore is 25 mm, and the wall thickness of the outlet seat is 31.05 mm. The maximum equivalent stress with this combination of parameters is 135.62 MPa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article shows the areas of use of pneumatic protective and regulating devices in the enrichment of gas concentrates. Examples of technological schemes based on the application of pneumatic regulators are given. Reducers of the "after itself" type serve to reduce the pressure of gas supplied from highpressure receivers, a group of cylinders and receivers. The inclusion of such regulators allows you to reduce the inlet pressure to a level corresponding to the characteristics of the compressors or the technological modes of the units. Reducers "to itself" serve to stabilize the pressure in the devices-sources of gas concentrates. When selecting a Ne-He mixture from a number of different types of air separation units into the phase separator (dephlegmator), such regulators are able to ensure the coordinated operation of several units and eliminate the overflow of the mixture and violation of air separation. Reducers "to itself" can perform the functions of preventive protective valves along with typical safety valves. Unlike the latter, regulators "to itself" have greater sensitivity and are able to reduce the pressure in the installation smoothly, without disrupting the technological process. In this case, the regulators are adjusted to 0.2...0.3 MPa below the pressure of the main safety valve. Examples of circuits based on the use of pneumatic regulators in inert gas enrichment systems are given. The case of sampling the mixture directly from the source and feeding it uniformly into the column with increased (relative to the source) pressure is considered. This option involves matching the compressor flow rate with the column performance through the use of periodic compression and receivers. Calculation models allow predicting the change in pressure during the cycle. Depending on the performance of the unit, the minimum volume of the receiver is calculated, which ensures the continuity of the mixture supply to the column. The proposed schematic solutions allow for stable operation of units for the enrichment of inert gas concentrates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Among the alternative fuels enabling the energy transition, hydrogen-based transportation is a sustainable and efficient choice. It finds application both in light-duty and heavy-duty mobility. However, hydrogen gas has unique qualities that must be taken into account when employed in such vehicles: high-pressure levels up to 900 bar, storage in composite tanks with a temperature limit of 85 °C, and a negative Joule–Thomson coefficient throughout a wide range of operational parameters. Moreover, to perform a refueling procedure that is closer to the driver's expectations, a fast process that requires pre-cooling the gas to −40 °C is necessary. The purpose of this work is to examine the major phenomena that occur during the hydrogen refueling process by analyzing the relevant theory and existing modeling methodologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The general spray gun is used for industrial large-area spraying, and there is less demand for different pressures and the accuracy of spraying pressure, so mechanical pressure regulators are mostly used. However, as the demand for artistic innovation continues to grow, it promotes the advent of the micro spray gun. The micro spray gun is currently commonly known as an airbrush. The micro spray gun is mainly used for fine drawing, so it must provide different pressures with high precision pressures, but the existing mechanical regulators cannot meet this requirement. For these unmet requirements, this study proposed a solution for PID (proportional-integral-derivative) control micro spray gun system. The results showed that the PID control could effectively provide various stable output pressures of the micro spray gun. The pressure-varying range of 30 kPa could rapidly return to the target value in 10 s (the usual spraying time). The proposed solution then presents better spraying effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The poor dynamic characteristics of the flow balance valve used in a ship's HVAC system are the main reasons for the hydraulic imbalance and high energy consumption of the system. A new adjustable dynamic flow balance valve structure is designed, which is composed of a self-operated pressure regulator and an electric V-shaped ball valve in series. When the V-shaped ball valve is fully opened at the 20 t/h flow level, the dynamic characteristics of the flow balance valve cannot meet the requirements. A new co-simulation method that combines MATLAB/Simulink and the UDF dynamic grid is proposed to study the dynamic characteristics of a flow balance valve with a 20 t/h flow rate under different pressure drop step signal interference. When the calculation of each micro-element time converges, the valve core motion parameters, the pressure boundary conditions, the valve core axial medium force, and the valve outlet flow are interactively transmitted in the two simulation environments. The discrepancy between the co-simulation and test results is less than 5%, which verifies the accuracy of the co-simulation model. Aiming at the most severe dynamic characteristic working condition where the pressure drop is stepped from 30 to 300 kPa, the influence of different structural parameters on the dynamic characteristics of the balance valve is analyzed. A new surrogate model combining RSM and RBF with the co-simulation method improves the optimization efficiency and fitting accuracy. To improve the convergence of the traditional NSGA-II algorithm, key structural parameters are optimized by combining the NSGA-II algorithm and SDR. The test results show that the dynamic characteristics of the optimized valve are improved, the discrepancy between the stabilized flow rate and 20 t/h does not exceed 4.5%, and the flow is relatively constant. Therefore, the proposed co-simulation and optimization method can be applied to the dynamic characteristic prediction of self-operated valves, such as dynamic flow balance valves, to provide guidance for developing high-precision self-operated valves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Agricultural product supply chain and blockchain are closely integrated with the continuous acceleration of agricultural modernization. The clustered supply chain has gradually developed from a single supply chain in recent years. There is heat competition among peer enterprises in the clustered agricultural product supply chain blockchain. Among them, the data on the blockchain is publicly available to all participants. The private data on the chain has been adopted as an encrypted storage model, in order to protect users' privacy. The existing single-department supervision scheme is unsuitable for the complex cluster agricultural supply chain. The multi-sector supervision can be expected to serve as a promising way in the current reality. However, multi-department supervision is still challenging to ensure the sharing of encrypted data on the chain without redundant information for irrelevant departments. It is a high demand to improve supervision efficiency and credibility. Fortunately, the ciphertext-policy attribute-based encryption (CP-ABE) can be a one-to-numerous encryption, essentially a public key encryption system. The CP-ABE can realize the sharing of data for the users with specified attributes suitable for the application environment of multi-department supervision of the blockchain in the clustered agricultural supply chain. In this research, a multi-department supervision scheme was proposed in the verifiable blockchain ciphertext policy for the cluster agricultural supply chains using CP-ABE. A chain of custody was set up outside the business chain, including the supervisors from various departments to facilitate the management of supervisors. The chain of custody managed data on the business chain through “cross-chain governance.” Different supervision strategies were set for the data on the chain, according to the data type. The administrator of the supervision department was set as the department's supervisor to supervise the specific data of the specific chain. According to the supervision strategy on the chain, the enterprise users encrypted the data using CP-ABE to realize the disclosure of data for privacy. A CP-ABE-based access tree verification scheme was designed to combine the smart contracts and supervision strategies, and then to verify the CP-ABE access tree before the data was uploaded to the chain, in order to ensure that the data was available to the designated supervisor. The direct use of CP-ABE was inefficient for data encryption. Therefore, hybrid encryption was used to encrypt and share the data. The specific implementation was to encrypt the original data with symmetric encryption and then use the CP-ABE to encrypt the symmetric encryption key. A supervision prototype system was constructed under the blockchain ciphertext of the clustered agricultural supply chain using Hyperledger Fabric. The system was tested in two aspects of function and performance. The functional test showed that the system fully met the needs of essential multi-department supervision. The performance test showed that each time the number of supervisors in the supervision strategy increased by 10, while the average on-chain time was extended by about 500 ms, and the average throughput was 438 (number of transactions/s, transactions/s). When the number of supervisors for a single data type of a single enterprise was within a reasonable range, the clustered system was adept to the multi-department supervision under the condition of the primary clustered agricultural supply chain blockchain ciphertext-application requirements. Security analysis indicated the high-security system. As such, this scheme can be expected suitable for the multi-departmental, specialized, and fine-grained supervision of data on the blockchain under data encryption. The pressure of regulators can be inspired by the development of blockchain supervision of cluster agricultural supply chains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study proposed a modified three-stage auto-cascade refrigeration cycle (MTARC) operating with environmentally benign zeotropic mixture of R1234yf/R170/R14 at the refrigeration temperature level of − 80 °C. Compared with the conventional three-stage auto-cascade refrigeration cycle (CTARC), MTARC incorporates an additional pressure regulator between the condenser and separator to realize phase separation at a lower pressure and temperature. A comprehensive evaluation of energy and exergy performance of the two cycles was conducted theoretically. Under a typical working condition, the cooling capacity, COP and exergy efficiency of the MTARC are improved by 15.85%, 11.69% and 7.65% in comparison with the CTARC, respectively. In addition, a lower evaporating temperature was also obtained by the MTARC under the same operating condition. When the intermediate pressure drops from 2 to 1 MPa, the cooling capacity, COP and exergy efficiency are improved by 35.43%, 25.25% and 16.74%, respectively, for the MTARC, meanwhile the compressor outlet temperature increases 19.93 °C from 92.27 to 112.20 °C. Therefore, the selection of the intermediate pressure should be comprehensively considered to ensure a desirable cycle performance and a proper working condition for the compressor. The proposed modified cycle offers new pathways for designing innovative cryogenic refrigeration systems, thereby potentially improving the energy economy in a myriad of modern energy applications for sustainability concerns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To research the influence of the proportional relay valve on the economy and safety of the electric bus through the braking recovery system, a proportional relay valve model was proposed. Based on the analysis of the structure and working principle of the solenoid on/off valve, a dynamic model of "electro-magnetic-machine-air" coupling was simulated and analyzed. Then, based on the solenoid on/off valve and proportional relay valve, two pressure regulator modules were designed, the braking energy recovery system schemes were designed, respectively. Fuel economy tests were carried out under China city bus typical driving cycle based on two kinds of air pressure regulating module to research the influence of the proportional relay valve on the economy of the electric bus. An integrated control system of braking energy recovery and anti-lock braking system based on the proportional relay valve was proposed, hardware-in-the-loop braking energy recovery system contrast tests of the anti-lock braking system were also carried out based on two kinds of air pressure regulating module. The test results indicated that the proposed braking energy recovery system schemes were effective. The test results also demonstrated the economic contribution rate of the braking energy recovery of the proportional relay valve pneumatic control module was slightly higher than that of the proportional relay valve. Meanwhile, the proportion relay valve pressure regulating module achieved a good target speed follow and the accurate adjustment of air pressure in anti-lock braking system control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

(1) Background: Renal dysfunction and hypertension are mutually aggravating factors; however, the details of their interaction remain unclear. In a study using renal tissue from diabetic rats, we found that β1-integrin, a cell-substrate adhesion molecule, is specifically phosphorylated in juxtaglomerular cells that secrete renin, a blood pressure regulator. (2) Methods: A mouse juxtaglomerular cell line (As4.1 cells) was used for the following experiments: drug-induced promotion of β1-integrin phosphorylation/dephosphorylation; knockdown of β1-integrin and the cell adhesion molecule connexin-40 (a candidate for the main body of baroreceptor); and pressurization to atmospheric pressure + 100 mmHg. culture in hypotonic liquid medium. The expression of renin under these conditions was measured by qRT-PCR. (3) Results: Phosphorylation of β1-integrin suppressed the expression of renin, while dephosphorylation conversely promoted it. β1-integrin and connexin-40 knockdown both promoted the expression of renin. Pneumatic pressurization and hypotonic medium culture both decreased the expression of renin, which was restored by the knockdown of β1-integrin. (4) Conclusions: β1-integrin plays an inhibitory role in the regulation of the expression of renin, which may be controlled by phosphorylation and dephosphorylation. It is hypothesized that β1-integrin and other adhesion factors regulate the expression of renin by altering the sensitivity of baroreceptors on the plasma membrane. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The global energy crisis, rising energy demand and climate warming make it imperative to find ways to recover energy that is not being put to beneficial use, to reduce primary and final energy consumption, and to reduce emissions. An important part of Lithuania's energy sector is the natural gas sector and its transmission network, including the gas distribution stations (GDS). It is the GDS that has an unexploited potential for energy recovery, as the gas pressure is reduced through the use of gas pressure regulators, where the potential energy in the highpressure gas is not utilized in a useful way, and the necessary heating of natural gas is carried out through the use of natural gas boilers, with additional environmental pollution. The aim of the study is to analyse the gas distribution station, to find the areas of the station where potential energy is not being used and the environment is being polluted, and to propose reasonable solutions. Following a literature review, alternative technical solutions are selected: turbine-expander, conversion of the gas preheating system from gas boilers to a geothermal heat pump, use of solar collectors, photovoltaic solar cells. In order to assess the potential of technological solutions to improve the efficiency of the DSS and reduce emissions, a multi-criteria analysis of the proposed solutions is carried out, where the measures under evaluation are analysed in energy, economic and environmental terms. The energy assessment analyses the energy consumption, the economic assessment calculates the net present value (NPV) of the investment for each solution and the environmental assessment examines the environmental impact of the proposed measures over their life cycle. Based on the results of the multicriteria analysis, the systems best suited to the object of study (GDS) are recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]