Resources

19 pages, 2124 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Valorization of Andean Native Potatoes Through Chuño Processing: Effects of Potato Variety and Freezing Temperature on Physicochemical, Bioactive, Nutritional, and Technological Properties

by Elmer Robert Torres-Gutiérrez, Grimaldo Wilfredo Quispe-Santivañez, Jimmy Pablo Echevarría-Victorio, David Elí Salazar-Espinoza, Joselin Paucarchuco-Soto, Henry Juan Javier-Ninahuaman, Williams Esteward Castillo-Martinez and Rebeca Salvador-Reyes

Resources 2025, 14(5), 78; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources14050078 - 3 May 2025

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Abstract

Chuño is a traditional Andean product obtained by freezing, thawing, and drying potatoes. This study aimed to assess how different Andean potato varieties (Chihuanki Negro [C], Puka Huayro Machu [P], and Yana Huayro Machu [Y]) and freezing temperatures (−10 °C, −20 °C, and [...] Read more.

Chuño is a traditional Andean product obtained by freezing, thawing, and drying potatoes. This study aimed to assess how different Andean potato varieties (Chihuanki Negro [C], Puka Huayro Machu [P], and Yana Huayro Machu [Y]) and freezing temperatures (−10 °C, −20 °C, and −30 °C) modulate the physicochemical (pH, acidity, and moisture), bioactive (phenolics and antioxidant activity), nutritional (proximate composition and minerals), and techno-functional (water absorption and swelling power) attributes of chuño. The results revealed that variety C retained higher macronutrient levels at 10 °C, featuring higher carbohydrates, proteins, and minerals (e.g., magnesium and zinc), while P showed enhanced fiber and mineral retention, alongside a faster rehydration and antioxidant capacity, particularly at −20 °C and −30 °C. Color differences were also noted, with P presenting reddish tones and a higher luminosity, whereas C had a more intense yellow hue linked to carotenoids. In general, −10 °C and −20 °C better preserved antioxidant compounds than −30 °C. These findings underscore how the proper selection of potato variety and freezing temperature can optimize the nutritional, functional, and sensory characteristics of chuño. However, these outcomes stem from selected samples, suggesting that further research is needed to confirm the broader applicability of the proposed method across additional varieties and process conditions. Full article

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23 pages, 4735 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Spatial Analysis of Water Conservation and Its Driving Factors in an Urban Citarum Tropical Watershed: Geospatial Approach

by Irmadi Nahib, Yudi Wahyudin, Wiwin Ambarwulan, Bono Pranoto, Fadhlullah Ramadhani, Destika Cahyana, Nunung Puji Nugroho, Nawa Suwedi, Jaka Suryanta, Vicca Karolinoerita, Mulyanto Darmawan, Aninda Wisaksanti Rudiastuti, Darmawan Listya Cahya, Bambang Winarno, Teguh Arif Pianto and Harun Idham Akbar

Resources 2025, 14(5), 77; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources14050077 - 3 May 2025

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Abstract

Water conservation (WC) is a vital ecosystem service (ES) that plays an essential role in the sustainable management of water resources and ensures ecological security. This research examines the WC capacity of the Citarum watershed in West Java Province, Indonesia, from 2010 to [...] Read more.

Water conservation (WC) is a vital ecosystem service (ES) that plays an essential role in the sustainable management of water resources and ensures ecological security. This research examines the WC capacity of the Citarum watershed in West Java Province, Indonesia, from 2010 to 2020. The specific objectives of this research are as follows: (1) to assess the 10-year temporal and spatial variations of WC using the Integrated Valuation of Ecosystem Services and Tradeoffs (InVEST) and topographic index model; (2) to analyze the temporal interchange between WC and its influencing factors through the Spatial Elastic Coefficient Trajectory Model (SECTM); and (3) to determine the driving factors (DFs) affecting WC by applying Multiscale Geographically Weighted Regression (MGWR). Key findings of this study reveal significant trends in WC from 2010 to 2020: the average WC in the Citarum watershed decreased from 513.96 mm/ha to 453.64 mm/ha (11.74%), indicating a concerning decline in ES capacity. This study also noted that regions implementing comprehensive regulations dominated the study area, covering approximately 72.70% of the total area (502,295 hectares). This illustrates that the implementation of rules plays a crucial role in the WC. Lastly, the MGWR analysis found that WC in the Citarum watershed positively correlated with topography, climate, and vegetation while negatively correlating with socioeconomic factors. This indicates that WC levels are generally lower in areas with higher human activity and economic growth, highlighting the impact of anthropogenic pressures on natural resources. This framework helps stakeholders plan to ensure sustainable development in the area, as it provides valuable insights into the interactions between the ecological and socioeconomic factors affecting WC. Full article

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19 pages, 3538 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Aquafaba and Cinnamon Essential Oil for the Production of Biodegradable and Compostable Wine Vineyard Waste-Based Material

by Sergio Moraga-Bustos, Yessica Rivas, Ricardo Villalobos and Marcela Jarpa-Parra

Resources 2025, 14(5), 76; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources14050076 - 1 May 2025

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Abstract

(1) Grape stalks and aquafaba (Aq) from chickpeas are promising agricultural byproducts with potential applications in the development of sustainable biocomposite materials due to their ligno-cellulose and protein content. (2) This study aimed to evaluate the incorporation of Aq and cinnamon essential oil [...] Read more.

(1) Grape stalks and aquafaba (Aq) from chickpeas are promising agricultural byproducts with potential applications in the development of sustainable biocomposite materials due to their ligno-cellulose and protein content. (2) This study aimed to evaluate the incorporation of Aq and cinnamon essential oil (CEO) into grape stalk-based materials to enhance mechanical properties and prevent microbial contamination. Four formulations were prepared, and their mechanical, physicochemical, and antifungal properties were assessed. (3) The incorporation of CEO significantly reduced water absorption, while formulations containing Aq exhibited the highest mechanical resistance, likely due to synergistic interactions between proteins and polysaccharides that modified the microstructure of cellulose fibers. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images supported these findings. Additionally, CEO-treated samples showed resistance to fungal contamination by Botrytis cinerea, unlike untreated samples, which were colonized by the fungus. Biodegradability tests indicated slower degradation for CEO-treated samples (10 weeks) compared to those without CEO (5–7 weeks). (4) The results suggest that the combination of Aq and CEO creates a promising material for use in food packaging, though further research is needed to fully understand the reinforcement mechanisms. Full article

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20 pages, 5188 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Investigation of Bio-Oil and Biochar Derived from Cotton Stalk Pyrolysis: Effect of Different Reaction Conditions

by Hussien Elshareef, Obid Tursunov, Sihao Ren, Katarzyna Śpiewak, Alina Rahayu Mohamed, Yongkun Fu, Renjie Dong and Yuguang Zhou

Resources 2025, 14(5), 75; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources14050075 - 28 Apr 2025

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Abstract

This work aimed to conduct a kinetic study of cotton stalks (CSs) through TGA to examine the impact of reaction conditions on bio-oil yield derived from CS slow pyrolysis using a tube furnace lab-scale reactor, as well as a characterization of bio-oil and [...] Read more.

This work aimed to conduct a kinetic study of cotton stalks (CSs) through TGA to examine the impact of reaction conditions on bio-oil yield derived from CS slow pyrolysis using a tube furnace lab-scale reactor, as well as a characterization of bio-oil and biochar products. The iso-conversional approaches of Kissinger–Akahira–Sunose (KAS) and Flynn–Wall–Ozawa (FWO) were applied to estimate kinetic parameter activation energy (E_a) for the range of conversion degrees (α = 0.1–0.9). The kinetic results demonstrated that the average values of E_a for secondary pyrolysis were lower compared to those of primary pyrolysis; this could be explained by the fact that mainly cellulose degrades during primary pyrolysis, which requires more energy to be degraded. The pyrolysis findings indicated that the highest yield of bio-oil was 38.5%, which occurred at conditions of 500 °C and 0.5–1 mm size, while retention time showed an insignificant effect on pyrolysis oil. GC–MS analysis demonstrated that bio-oil is dominated by phenol compounds, which account for more than 40% of its components. SEM and XRD analyses emphasized that biochar is porous and has an amorphous shape, respectively. It can be concluded that these outcomes confirm that CSs have the potential to be a good candidate for a feedstock material for bioenergy production via the pyrolysis process. Full article

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28 pages, 2733 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Techno-Economic Optimization and Assessment of Solar Photovoltaic–Battery–Hydrogen Energy Systems with Solar Tracking for Powering ICT Facility

by Olubayo Babatunde, Oluwaseye Adedoja, Oluwaseun Oyebode, Uthman Abiola Kareem, Damilola Babatunde, Toyosi Adedoja, Busola Akintayo, Michael Emezirinwune, Desmond Eseoghene Ighravwe, Olufemi Ogunniran and Olanrewaju Oludolapo

Resources 2025, 14(5), 74; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources14050074 - 28 Apr 2025

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Abstract

This paper addresses the critical issue of selecting the optimal solar tracking configuration for maximum energy generation, given the increasing demand for sustainable energy solutions in information and communication technology (ICT) facilities. The main goal is to thoroughly evaluate and compare seven different [...] Read more.

This paper addresses the critical issue of selecting the optimal solar tracking configuration for maximum energy generation, given the increasing demand for sustainable energy solutions in information and communication technology (ICT) facilities. The main goal is to thoroughly evaluate and compare seven different solar tracking configurations across technical, economic, and environmental dimensions: No Tracking (NT), Monthly Adjusted Horizontal Axis (MAHA), Weekly Adjusted Horizontal Axis (WAHA), Daily Adjusted Horizontal Axis (DAHA), Continuously Adjusted Horizontal Axis (CAHA), Continuously Adjusted Vertical Axis (CAVA), and Dual Axis with Continuous Adjustment (DACA). This study utilizes the HOMER simulation program to evaluate its energy and hydrogen production, emissions, and cost-effectiveness performance. Key findings indicate solar tracking improves energy efficiency, with optimal capacity factors of 18.2% and 17.7% for CAHA and DAHA configurations, respectively. Although load-following strategies increase reliability, there is a trade-off between capital costs and energy costs. In addition, an MCDM approach helps to consolidate the evaluation, resulting in CAVA being ranked as the most preferable option. The study contributes to informed decision-making for energy systems in ICT facilities by emphasizing the significance of considering a variety of criteria and evaluation techniques to address complex energy challenges. Full article

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17 pages, 4046 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Ettringite Formation on the Stability of Cement-Treated Sediments

by Inácio Soares Ribeiro, Diego de Freitas Fagundes and Helena Paula Nierwinski

Resources 2025, 14(5), 73; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources14050073 - 28 Apr 2025

Viewed by 288

Abstract

This study explores the stabilization of dredged sediments classified as lean clay (CL) using hydrated lime, type III Portland cement, and compaction. While quicklime is commonly used in practice, this research explores alternative calcium-based binders with the aim of valorizing sediments for civil [...] Read more.

This study explores the stabilization of dredged sediments classified as lean clay (CL) using hydrated lime, type III Portland cement, and compaction. While quicklime is commonly used in practice, this research explores alternative calcium-based binders with the aim of valorizing sediments for civil engineering applications. The mechanical behavior of the treated materials was evaluated through an Unconfined Compressive Strength (UCS) test campaign, with the results interpreted using the porosity/volumetric cement content (

η / C_{i v}

) index. This relationship assesses the influence of apparent dry density and cement content on the strength improvement of sediments, aiming to evaluate the suitability of the dredged sediments for engineering applications. A key feature of this study is the extended curing period of up to 90 days, which goes beyond the typical 28-day evaluations commonly found in the literature. Interestingly, strength degradation occurred at advanced curing ages compared to shorter curing times. To understand the mechanisms underlying this resistance degradation, the mixtures were subjected to X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy (XRF), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). These tests identified the presence of the expansive sulfate-based compound ettringite, which is associated with swelling and failure in soils stabilized with calcium-based stabilizers. This research contributes to the field by demonstrating the limitations of calcium-based binders in stabilizing sulfate-bearing dredged materials and emphasizing the importance of long-term curing in assessing the durability of treated sediments. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Sustainable Recycling and Reuse of Industrial By-Products or Waste from Geo-Resource Exploitation)

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19 pages, 935 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Enhancing the Growth, Bioactive Compounds, and Antioxidant Activity of Kangkong (Ipomoea aquatica Forssk.) Microgreens Using Dielectric Barrier Discharge Plasma

by Prapasiri Ongrak, Nopporn Poolyarat, Suebsak Suksaengpanomrung, Bhornchai Harakotr, Yaowapha Jirakiattikul and Panumart Rithichai

Resources 2025, 14(5), 72; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources14050072 - 28 Apr 2025

Viewed by 337

Abstract

Enhancing the nutraceutical value of health-promoting foods is a strategy to mitigate non-communicable diseases (NCDs), which pose a global health threat. This study aimed to improve the growth, bioactive compound content, and antioxidant activity of kangkong (Ipomoea aquatica Forssk.) microgreens through the [...] Read more.

Enhancing the nutraceutical value of health-promoting foods is a strategy to mitigate non-communicable diseases (NCDs), which pose a global health threat. This study aimed to improve the growth, bioactive compound content, and antioxidant activity of kangkong (Ipomoea aquatica Forssk.) microgreens through the application of dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) plasma at different treatment durations. Seeds from two cultivars, Pugun 19 (PG) and Banhann (BH), were treated with DBD plasma for 5 to 20 min, compared to untreated seeds as the control. DBD plasma treatments had no significant effect on the dry weight of BH, whereas a 10 min treatment resulted in the highest dry weight in PG. Principal component analysis exhibited that treating PG seeds with 5 min of DBD plasma increased coumaric acid, total flavonoids, and DPPH and FRAP activities. Meanwhile, exposing BH seeds to 10 min DBD plasma treatment enhanced carotenoids content, as well as ABTS and antiglycation activities. Based on these results, the optimal time for DBD plasma treatment to improve the quality of kangkong microgreens was 5 min for PG and 10 min for BH. These findings indicate that DBD plasma treatment offers potential applications in sustainable agriculture and food biofortification. Full article

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18 pages, 2373 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Yield, Bioactive Compounds, and Antioxidant Potential of Twenty-Three Diverse Microgreen Species Grown Under Controlled Conditions

by Bhornchai Harakotr, Lalita Charoensup, Panumart Rithichai, Yaowapha Jirakiattikul and Patlada Suthamwong

Resources 2025, 14(5), 71; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources14050071 - 27 Apr 2025

Viewed by 320

Abstract

Selecting suitable crop species is crucial for optimizing the productivity and nutritional content of microgreens. In this study, twenty-three diverse microgreen species, grown under controlled conditions, were analyzed for yield, bioactive compounds, and antioxidant activities. The microgreens were cultivated on a peat substrate [...] Read more.

Selecting suitable crop species is crucial for optimizing the productivity and nutritional content of microgreens. In this study, twenty-three diverse microgreen species, grown under controlled conditions, were analyzed for yield, bioactive compounds, and antioxidant activities. The microgreens were cultivated on a peat substrate in a controlled environment, with a growth period of 6 to 20 days from planting to harvest. Conditions were maintained at 25 ± 2 °C, a 16 h photoperiod, CO₂ concentration of 1000 ppm, relative humidity of 60 ± 2%, and the LED light was set at 330 μmol/m²/s PPFD. Results from the analysis revealed that the yield, bioactive compounds, and antioxidant potential differed significantly among the twenty-three microgreen species. Unfortunately, the superior microgreens exhibiting greater values for all studied traits could not be identified. However, the principal component analysis (PCA) clustered red radish, rat-tailed radish, and Chinese kale microgreens, which were high in both yield and bioactive compounds. In contrast, red holy basil and lemon basil microgreens had high levels of these compounds but low yields. Additionally, a high level of anti-tyrosinase activity was observed in garland chrysanthemum, Chinese mustard, and Chinese cabbage microgreens. Therefore, these microgreen species can be utilized individually or in varying ratios to produce bioactive compounds in different concentrations that are suitable for various applications. The information presented in this study provides valuable insights for health-conscious consumers and growers for selecting superior species with functional implications. Full article

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21 pages, 4109 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Using Coal Resources with Optimal Bursting Pressure for the Production of High-Quality Metallurgical Coke

by Denis Miroshnichenko, Kateryna Shmeltser, Maryna Kormer, Oleksiy Sytnyk, Iliya Avdeyuk, Mykhailo Miroshnychenko and Mariia Shved

Resources 2025, 14(5), 70; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources14050070 - 23 Apr 2025

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Abstract

When applying advanced technologies and technological methods for the preparation of coal raw materials (technology for coking stamped batch, technology for coking dry or thermally prepared batch), the problem of developing high bursting pressure arises. The aim of this research is to assess [...] Read more.

When applying advanced technologies and technological methods for the preparation of coal raw materials (technology for coking stamped batch, technology for coking dry or thermally prepared batch), the problem of developing high bursting pressure arises. The aim of this research is to assess the possibility of predicting the bursting pressure of coal blends taking into account their technological properties and petrographic characteristics, as well as to study the effect of bursting pressure on the metallurgical properties of coke. Standardized methods were used to study the technological properties of coal and coal blends (determination of technical and petrographic analyses). The qualitative characteristics of coke were studied using physical, mechanical, and thermochemical methods for the study of standardized indicators: crushability (M₂₅), abrasion (M₁₀), reactivity (CRI), and post-reaction strength (CSR). The regression equations for predicting the bursting pressure of coal blends, taking into account the volatile matter in the blend, vitrinite content, and grinding, which are characterized by high correlation coefficients (0.89 and 0.9), were proposed. Their use will make it possible to optimize the composition of coal batches, control the bursting pressure during regrinding, and reduce the number of experimental measurements in a particular coke production. It was also found that an increase in the bursting pressure by 1 kPa can be expected to increase the mechanical strength of coke in terms of crushability M₂₅ by about 2.6% and reduce the abrasion of coke M₁₀ by 1%. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mineral Resource Management 2025: Assessment, Mining and Processing)

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23 pages, 875 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Microbial and Physiochemical Profiling of Zarqa River Supplemented with Treated Wastewater: A High-Resolution PCR Analysis

by Raha Alassaf and Alfred P. Blaschke

Resources 2025, 14(5), 69; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources14050069 - 22 Apr 2025

Viewed by 287

Abstract

Background: This study aims to evaluate the quality of treated wastewater flowing in the Zarqa River to determine its suitability for agricultural use. The assessment is based on physicochemical and biological parameters in accordance with Jordanian standards (JS 893:2021), the CCME water quality [...] Read more.

Background: This study aims to evaluate the quality of treated wastewater flowing in the Zarqa River to determine its suitability for agricultural use. The assessment is based on physicochemical and biological parameters in accordance with Jordanian standards (JS 893:2021), the CCME water quality index, and the weighted arithmetic water quality index (WAWQI). Additionally, a microbial assessment was conducted to identify the presence of pathogens in the treated wastewater. Methods: A total of 168 water samples were collected from seven different sites along the Zarqa River over a 24-month period. This study focused on microbial assessment and selected parameters from the JS 893:2021, including total dissolved solids (TDSs), biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), dissolved oxygen (DO), chemical oxygen demand (COD), and E. coli levels. Furthermore, data were gathered on additional physicochemical parameters such as pH, mineral content (including Na, Ca, K, Mg, and Cl), salts (HCO₃, SO₄, NO₃, and PO₄), and heavy metals (Fe, Cu, Pb, Mn, and Co). The CCME water quality index and weighted arithmetic WQI scores were calculated to determine the water quality from all seven study sites. Results: In terms of Jordanian standards, Site 1 had the lowest TDS and DO values along with E. coli concentration. Further, in terms of minerals and salts, the maximum concentrations found for the sites are given herewith: Site 2 (K⁺ and NO₃), Site 3 (Cl⁻, Na⁺), Site 5 (Ca, HCO₃), and Site 7 (Mg²⁺, PO₄, and SO₄). In terms of pH, all the study sites had pH values within the acceptable range, i.e., between 6 and 9, for irrigation purposes. The concentrations of certain heavy metals, specifically lead (Pb), manganese (Mn), and cobalt (Co), were observed to be negligible. In contrast, Site 6 exhibited the highest concentration of iron (Fe) (0.0178 mg/L), while Site 5 recorded the maximum concentration of copper (Cu) (0.0210 mg/L) among the study locations. Site 1 demonstrated the most favorable water quality among the seven sites evaluated, whereas Site 6 exhibited the poorest water quality. Overall, the water quality from the majority of the sites was deemed suitable for drainage and for irrigating crops classified under the B category. However, based on the weighted arithmetic water quality index (WQI) values, none of the sites achieved a classification of good or excellent water quality, although the water quality at these sites may still be utilized for irrigation purposes. The current study is the first to report the presence of SARS-CoV-2 in Zarqa River water samples. Conclusions: The current study outcomes are promising and provide knowledgeable insights in terms of water quality parameters, while public health aspects should be considered when planning the WWTPs in parallel to reclaiming the wastewater for irrigation purposes. Full article

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24 pages, 2988 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Role of Positive Energy Communities in Accelerating the Adoption of Renewable Energies: Case Study, Tunisia

by Ikram Ben Belgacem, El Manaa Barhoumi, Issam M. Bahadur and Paul C. Okonkwo

Resources 2025, 14(5), 68; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources14050068 - 22 Apr 2025

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Abstract

This paper examines the key factors influencing the relationship between domestic energy consumption and renewable energy adoption in Tunisia, based on a survey of 1000 participants from various sectors, including students, teachers, and social media users. The findings reveal that while 65% of [...] Read more.

This paper examines the key factors influencing the relationship between domestic energy consumption and renewable energy adoption in Tunisia, based on a survey of 1000 participants from various sectors, including students, teachers, and social media users. The findings reveal that while 65% of households report high energy consumption, mainly due to heating and air conditioning, only 35% have adopted energy-efficient technologies. Although 80% express concern about climate change, only 45% understand the connection between personal energy use and environmental impact. Additionally, 70% of respondents show a positive attitude toward solar energy, but 60% cite installation costs as a significant barrier. The paper focuses on the potential of positive energy communities (PECs), particularly in rural areas, where 75% of respondents showed interest. The study emphasizes the need for a comprehensive strategy combining education, policy frameworks, and community-driven energy solutions to reduce consumption and increase renewable energy use. Concrete recommendations are provided to support a sustainable energy transition in Tunisia, with a focus on enhancing energy autonomy and environmental preservation through PECs. Full article

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