bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Thermal conductivity prediction by atomistic simulation methods: Recent advances and detailed comparison
Authors: Gu Xiaokun , Fan Zheyong , Bao Hua
Published: December 2021

Atomistic simulation methods, including anharmonic lattice dynamics combined with the Boltzmann transport equation, equilibrium and non-equilibrium molecular dynamics simulations, and Landauer formalism, are vital for the prediction of thermal conductivity and the understanding of nanoscale thermal transport mechanisms. However, for years, the simulation results using different methods, or even the same method with different simulation setups, lack consistency, leading to many arguments about the underlying physics and proper numerical treatments on these atomistic simulation methods. In this perspective, we review and discuss the recent advances in atomistic simulation methods to predict the thermal conductivity of solid materials. The underlying assumptions of these methods and their consequences on phonon transport properties are comprehensively examined. Using silicon and graphene as examples, we analyze the influence of higher-order phonon scatterings, finite-size effects, quantum effects, and numerical details on the thermal conductivity prediction and clarify how to fairly compare the results from different methods. This perspective concludes with suggestions on obtaining consistent thermal conductivity prediction of different material systems and also provides perspective on efficient and accurate simulations of thermal transport in more complex and realistic conditions.
An eigendecomposition approach to turbulence production in supersonic streamwise vortex dominated flows
Authors: Viganò Davide , Maddalena Luca
Published: December 2021

Streamwise vortices have been investigated as a way to enhance air/fuel mixing in supersonic flows. Recently, they have been proposed as a way to exert a control authority on the sustainment of turbulence production. This control has direct application in scramjet combustors as molecular mixing is increased by the action of turbulence. Turbulence production is a function of the mean flow strain rates. These can be imposed by selecting specific modes of vortex interaction. However, their selection is non-trivial as the mean flow strain rates are coupled with the Reynolds stresses in turbulence production. Based on a series of experimental observations of the Reynolds stresses, which exhibits recurring morphologies, the authors have previously introduced a methodology to select specific modes of vortex interactions that would sustain turbulence. This method was experimentally tested in a Mach 2.5 flow, and the measurements showed sustained turbulence production compared to previous configurations. Although successful, this approach was limited in its use due to some simplifications. In particular, it was qualitative in nature and restricted to the sole mode of vortex merging. In this work, the previous approach is revisited using the strain rates and Reynolds stresses tensors eigendecomposition, resulting in a simplified, but quantitative, expression for turbulence production which is not restricted to a single mode of vortex interaction. Experimental comparisons show that this simplified model's predictions match well with the measurements, thus providing a useful approach for the selection of supersonic streamwise vortices configurations that sustain turbulence.
Random process-based stochastic analysis of multirotor hovering noise under rotational speed fluctuations
Authors: Jeong Jaeheon , Ko Jeongwoo , Cho Huisang , Lee Soogab
Published: December 2021

A stochastic numerical analysis of a multirotor was performed considering the rotational speed fluctuation to investigate the acoustic characteristics. To validate the analysis, the noise was measured in an anechoic chamber at different azimuth angles (from 0° to 45°) and polar angles (from 0° to 67.5°) in revolutions per minute (RPM) assuming a multirotor hovering maneuver. Frequency and amplitude modulation characteristics due to RPM fluctuations were observed despite the considered hovering condition. Moreover, an azimuthal noise directivity pattern in a circular shape was observed, which corresponds to the collapse of the phase effect due to the RPM fluctuation of each rotor. In the existing numerical studies, the RPM fluctuation could not be considered due to the high computational cost. In this study, a random process was applied to reflect the RPM fluctuation effects through a validated multirotor noise assessment framework. To perform the stochastic analysis, ensemble averaging, a concept of random process, was applied to analyze the acoustic effects of the multirotor considering generalized RPM fluctuations. A quantitative analysis was conducted considering the spectrum, azimuthal directivity, polar directivity, and noise signal similarity. The results indicated that the proposed stochastic analysis could effectively predict the multirotor noise by taking into account the RPM fluctuation effect.
Data-driven model for improving wall-modeled large-eddy simulation of supersonic turbulent flows with separation
Authors: Zangeneh Rozie
Published: December 2021

A machine learning algorithm is presented, serving as a data-driven modeling tool for wall-modeled large eddy simulations (WMLESs). The proposed model is formulated to address the problems of log layer mismatch and inaccurate prediction of skin friction, particularly for supersonic separated and reattached flows. This machine learning algorithm uses random forest regression to map the local mean flow fields to the discrepancies in the skin friction (heat flux) while complying with Galilean invariance as the flow features input is provided using relative velocities. The model is tested on two different supersonic flows, namely, flow over a flat plate and flow around an expansion-compression corner. The performance is evaluated by comparing the skin friction (heat flux) and flow properties with exact values. The ultimate goal is to build a robust and generalizable machine learning model to improve the prediction of WMLES of supersonic flows. To this end, the model is trained by a set of flows containing some essential flow physics to devise a generalizable model. Although the general machine learning model shows some advantages over the baseline WMLES model, it is concluded the data set is far from being representative of the rich flow physics model; therefore, the machine learning model should be trained and tested by a broader set of flows.
Oblique collision and reconnection of a vortex ring with a vortex tube
Authors: Nguyen Van Luc , Duong Long H. , Le Nam T. P.
Published: December 2021

The oblique collision and reconnection of a vortex ring and a vortex tube are numerically investigated using a sixth-order accurate vortex-in-cell method. At the oblique collision angle (α) of 0°, the reconnection occurs, in which half of the ring joins with a part of the tube to create a reconnected ring, and another half of the ring links to the rest of the tube to establish a new reconnected tube. At α = 15°, 30°, and 45°, two reconnections take place, where the first one generates a distorted reconnected tube, and then this tube reconnects itself to construct a new ring and a tube. The secondary vortex structures only appear surrounding the reconnected ring at α = 0°, while they are around both the reconnected ring and tube at α = 30° and 45°. As α increases, the time interval τ between two reconnections rises, and it is determined by a quadratic function as τ(α)=0.0037α2+0.0853α+0.975. The energy spectrum of the flow at the wavenumber (k) from 3 to 10 obeys the k−5/3 slope of a fully turbulent flow, and it is independent of α. However, the energy spectrum at the high wavenumber from 10 to 60 depends on α. This energy spectrum approaches the k−5/3 slope after the second reconnection for whole investigated cases.
Multiframe point-projection radiography imaging based on hybrid X-pinch
Authors: Tilikin I. N. , Shelkovenko T. A. , Pikuz S. A. , Bland S. N.
Published: December 2021

This paper demonstrates the possibility of using a new configuration of the hybrid X-pinch to produce a set of spatially and temporarily separate x-ray bursts that could be used for the radiography of dynamic events. To achieve this, a longer than normal wire is placed between the conical electrodes of the hybrid X-pinch, and a set of small spacers (fishing weights) is placed along the wire. Each subsection of the wire then acts as a unique X-pinch, producing its own radiation burst from a small (∼3 µm) spot. The timing between bursts is 20–50 ns, and each is <2 ns in duration. For comparison, if a longer wire is simply employed without spacers, hotspots of radiation occur in random positions and the time between any two bursts does not exceed 20 ns. Examples of two and three frame point-projection radiography of solid-state and plasma test objects are given.
Clean Air, Clean Water, Clear Conscience
Authors: Reader Graham T.
Published: December 2021

Humans can survive a few minutes without access to air, a few days without water, and a few weeks without food. Even with access to these commodities, if they are contaminated then humans will suffer health problems. This chapter provides insights into the historical context for the eventual development of, and the recognized need for, clean water and clean air regulations, together with an appreciation of some of the technical challenges and political hesitancy that have been encountered in arriving at the modern regulations. Is this important? Yes; despite palpable improvements in water and air quality over the last three decades, estimates suggest that at least 7 million people die prematurely, annually, because of polluted air and contaminated water; at least four times more than the number of lives lost to COVID-19 in 2020, the first year of the global pandemic. Indeed, almost one-third of the global population does not have access to safe drinking water and over 90% live in areas that do not meet the air quality guidelines stipulated by the World Health Organization (WHO). These profound issues seldom receive the same level of attention as topics such as anthropogenic climate change forecasts, water scarcity, and carbon dioxide pollution, albeit students are taught that the global amount of water is inviolate, and that carbon dioxide is a non-contaminating, colorless, odorless, and incombustible gas. How then can there be a scarcity of water and how can a quite unreactive gas cause air pollution? Are humans solely responsible for unsafe water and harmful air? These are simple questions, but the answers are not; they are complex and often disputed.
Sustainable Urbanization
Authors: Ween Camilla
Published: December 2021

Technology is central to our progress, but as Buckminster Fuller pointed out, our technological progress may not always be in the right direction. With up to 80% of the global population living in cities by the mid-century, we need to focus on technology that will create urban environments that are suitable for humanity and not harmful to the planet, and which help to deliver the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs); this will mean that we need to put people and the environment central to our thinking. If cities are to be true sanctuaries for all, they must be grounded in humanity. A sustainable city will be one that brings everyone along with it, regardless of circumstance. Almost all our modern practices have negative effects on people and the planet. If we want to survive into the 22nd century, we need to start changing the way we live and begin conceiving the fabric and systems that will support us. We need to use technology to create good solutions for people and the planet.
Application of Technology for Achieving Sustainable Agriculture
Authors: Khan Sikandar , Adnan Adnan
Published: December 2021

Agriculture may attain sustainability by employing (less or no) toxic chemicals and conserving natural resources. The agriculture sector is always changing, as new equipment and technology are developed to enable farmers to be more productive, efficient, and sustainable. The notion of sustainable agriculture has gained popularity since the Brundtland report was published in 1987. However, the definition of the term “sustainable agriculture” is enigmatic, making the application and implementation challenging. In terms of production and cost-effectiveness, farming faces several challenges. This chapter focuses on remote sensing, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) agriculture applications, machine vision, automatic instruments and devices for disease and insect identification, and digital and smart farm machines, that not only boost efficiency, but also reduce environmental effects. There are automated systems for numerous parts of agricultural tasks, from crop genetics to monitoring for resource availability, stress and disease, seeding, harvesting, sorting, and livestock management. Robots and automated ground and aerial devices can collect operational data and effect operations on a larger scale compared with manual techniques. Precision farming, which incorporates genetics, automation, and robotics into existing systems, can result in more resource-efficient and environment friendly agricultural production, despite a scarcity of cultivable land and climatic adversities, which is necessary to feed the world's rising population, predicted to reach 9 billion by 2050. The study also addresses the increase of climate resilience owing to sustainable agriculture. Finally, this chapter concludes the implementation of smart technology in sustainable agriculture.
Quantifying the required Zn uptake to achieve grain Zn biofortification of high-yielding wheat on calcareous soils with low available Zn
Authors: Wang Sen , Wang Zhaohui , Li Shasha , Diao Chaopeng , Liu Lu , Huang Ning , Huang Ming , Hui Xiaoli , Luo Laichao , He Gang , Cao Hanbing
Published: December 2021

Cereal crop Zn biofortification is an effective solution to global human Zn deficiency and is achieved by increasing grain Zn concentration concurrently with yield. However, the desired grain Zn concentration (>40 mg kg−1) is rarely observed for high-yielding wheat on calcareous soils, owing to inadequate Zn uptake or Zn distribution to grain. This study was designed to determine how much Zn uptake or distribution is adequate for Zn biofortification, by considering 123 bread wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) cultivars grown on calcareous soils with low available Zn (<0.5 mg kg−1) in the field on the southern Loess Plateau, China. Nineteen high-yielding cultivars were identified with similar yields (∼7.0 t ha−1) and various grain Zn concentrations from 9.3 to 26.7 mg kg−1. Adequate Zn distribution to grain was defined as the situation where the Zn harvest index at maturity increased to its maximum of ∼91.0% and straw Zn concentration at maturity decreased to its minimum of ∼1.5 mg kg−1. For each cultivar, the extra Zn in straw above the minimum could be again remobilised to grain and raise grain Zn concentration to its highest attainable level, which was 14.5–31.3 mg kg−1 for the 19 high-yielding cultivars but still <40 mg kg−1. Thus, the current Zn uptake needs to be increased to ≥308 g ha−1 to achieve Zn biofortification on low-Zn calcareous soils. For other wheat production regions, the method established here can also provide the priority measures and quantitative guidelines for Zn biofortification.
Toward a genome sequence for every animal: Where are we now?
Authors: Hotaling Scott , Kelley Joanna L. , Frandsen Paul B.
Published: December 2021

In less than 25 y, the field of animal genome science has transformed from a discipline seeking its first glimpses into genome sequences across the Tree of Life to a global enterprise with ambitions to sequence genomes for all of Earth’s eukaryotic diversity [H. A. Lewin
et al.
,
Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U.S.A.
115, 4325–4333 (2018)]. As the field rapidly moves forward, it is important to take stock of the progress that has been made to best inform the discipline’s future. In this Perspective, we provide a contemporary, quantitative overview of animal genome sequencing. We identified the best available genome assemblies in GenBank, the world’s most extensive genetic database, for 3,278 unique animal species across 24 phyla. We assessed taxonomic representation, assembly quality, and annotation status for major clades. We show that while tremendous taxonomic progress has occurred, stark disparities in genomic representation exist, highlighted by a systemic overrepresentation of vertebrates and underrepresentation of arthropods. In terms of assembly quality, long-read sequencing has dramatically improved contiguity, whereas gene annotations are available for just 34.3% of taxa. Furthermore, we show that animal genome science has diversified in recent years with an ever-expanding pool of researchers participating. However, the field still appears to be dominated by institutions in the Global North, which have been listed as the submitting institution for 77% of all assemblies. We conclude by offering recommendations for improving genomic resource availability and research value while also broadening global representation.
Sliding ferroelectricity in 2D van der Waals materials: Related physics and future opportunities
Authors: Wu Menghao , Li Ju
Published: December 2021

Near the 100th anniversary of the discovery of ferroelectricity, so-called sliding ferroelectricity has been proposed and confirmed recently in a series of experiments that have stimulated remarkable interest. Such ferroelectricity exists widely and exists only in two-dimensional (2D) van der Waals stacked layers, where the vertical electric polarization is switched by in-plane interlayer sliding. Reciprocally, interlayer sliding and the “ripplocation” domain wall can be driven by an external vertical electric field. The unique combination of intralayer stiffness and interlayer slipperiness of 2D van der Waals layers greatly facilitates such switching while still maintaining environmental and mechanical robustness at ambient conditions. In this perspective, we discuss the progress and future opportunities in this behavior. The origin of such ferroelectricity as well as a general rule for judging its existence are summarized, where the vertical stacking sequence is crucial for its formation. This discovery broadens 2D ferroelectrics from very few material candidates to most of the known 2D materials. Their low switching barriers enable high-speed data writing with low energy cost. Related physics like Moiré ferroelectricity, the ferroelectric nonlinear anomalous Hall effect, and multiferroic coupling are discussed. For 2D valleytronics, nontrivial band topology and superconductivity, their possible couplings with sliding ferroelectricity via certain stacking or Moiré ferroelectricity also deserve interest. We provide critical reviews on the current challenges in this emerging area.
pVHL-mediated SMAD3 degradation suppresses TGF-β signaling
Authors: Zhou Jun , Dabiri Yasamin , Gama-Brambila Rodrigo A. , Ghafoory Shahrouz , Altinbay Mukaddes , Mehrabi Arianeb , Golriz Mohammad , Blagojevic Biljana , Reuter Stefanie , Han Kang , Seidel Anna , Đikić Ivan , Wölfl Stefan , Cheng Xinlai
Published: December 2021

Transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) signaling plays a fundamental role in metazoan development and tissue homeostasis. However, the molecular mechanisms concerning the ubiquitin-related dynamic regulation of TGF-β signaling are not thoroughly understood. Using a combination of proteomics and an siRNA screen, we identify pVHL as an E3 ligase for SMAD3 ubiquitination. We show that pVHL directly interacts with conserved lysine and proline residues in the MH2 domain of SMAD3, triggering degradation. As a result, the level of pVHL expression negatively correlates with the expression and activity of SMAD3 in cells, Drosophila wing, and patient tissues. In Drosophila, loss of pVHL leads to the up-regulation of TGF-β targets visible in a downward wing blade phenotype, which is rescued by inhibition of SMAD activity. Drosophila pVHL expression exhibited ectopic veinlets and reduced wing growth in a similar manner as upon loss of TGF-β/SMAD signaling. Thus, our study demonstrates a conserved role of pVHL in the regulation of TGF-β/SMAD3 signaling in human cells and Drosophila wing development.
Spring balance and elastic—the answer
Authors: Featonby David , Oliveira Rute
Published: December 2021

A question on the forces in a spring balance when different loads are apllied and the balance is also stretched with an elastic band.
Cosmic-ray positrons strongly constrain leptophilic dark matter
Authors: John Isabelle , Linden Tim
Published: December 2021

Cosmic-ray positrons have long been considered a powerful
probe of dark matter annihilation. In particular, myriad studies of
the unexpected rise in the positron fraction have debated its dark
matter or pulsar origins. In this paper, we instead examine the
potential for extremely precise positron measurements by AMS-02 to
probe hard leptophilic dark matter candidates that do not
have spectral features similar to the bulk of the observed positron
excess. Utilizing a detailed cosmic-ray propagation model that
includes a primary positron flux generated by Galactic pulsars in
addition to a secondary component constrained by He and proton
measurements, we produce a robust fit to the local positron flux and
spectrum. We find no evidence for a spectral bump correlated with
leptophilic dark matter, and set strong constraints on the dark
matter annihilation cross-section that fall below the thermal
annihilation cross-section for dark matter masses below 60 GeV and
380 GeV for annihilation into τ+τ- and e+e-,
respectively, in our default model.
Renewable Hydrocarbon Production via Rapeseed Oil Hydrotreatment Over Palladium Catalysts
Authors: Malina I , Malins K , Strods-Vavilovs M , Uleiskis V
Published: December 2021

The effect of SiO2-Al2O3 (Pd5%/SA), activated carbon (Pd5%/C) and Al2O3 (Pd5%/A) supported palladium (5%) catalysts on renewable hydrocarbon synthesis via rapeseed oil hydrotreatment was investigated. The hydrotreatment experiments were carried out in solvent free medium under initial H2 pressure 100 bar and at 340 °C temperature for 120 min using catalyst amount 5%. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC/MS) analysis were used for estimation of hydrocarbon content in the obtained samples. Pd5%/SA catalyst provided complete conversion of rapeseed oil into marketable liquid renewable hydrocarbons without presence of oxygen containing substances under studied hydrotreatment conditions. Moreover, all tested Pd catalysts gave narrow range of linear saturated hydrocarbons (n-C15-C19). Pd5%/C and Pd5%/A catalysts gave partial feedstock conversion into hydrocarbons even in long residence time. Overall liquid hydrocarbon yields were from 55.3% to 82.3%.
A review of voltage and reactive power control algorithms in medium voltage distribution networks
Authors: Šantaras S
Published: December 2021

Current power network was built in mind that there will be mostly one-way power transmission, but as there is increasing penetration of distributed generation (DG), power network evolves and changes. Thereof old control strategies and algorithms used in power distribution do not fully utilize ever evolving power network in ensuring minimum active power loses, best distribution power generation for optimal voltage and frequency control.

The main objective of this paper is review and comparison of heuristic algorithms in medium-voltage (MV) distribution networks with high distributed generation (DG) penetration. The specific goal is integrating reviewed algorithms in distributer power network control to minimise power loss, control active and reactive power flow between transmission and distribution power networks and utilization of current power network structure with growing number distributed generation penetration and thus minimizing required cost for its upgrade. Due to complexity of different power network structures and control methods used in managing it, algorithms are reviewed used in ensuring fast and reliable calculations by guaranteeing as minimum active power loss as possible and by improving power system performance over existing centralised as well as decentralised control methods. For both control methods distributed generators requires to be endowed with communication capabilities, as it is effective in driving the voltages within the admissible intervals and, additionally, it exploits the cooperation among the distributed generators and controllers to reach power network objectives of minimal power loss, voltage stability as mentioned before.
Power Conversion Performance of a Single-Phase PV Inverter with Fuzzy Logic Algorithm
Authors: Giurgi G I , Petreus D , Giurgi D V , Szolga L
Published: December 2021

The paper presents a low-power conversion system focusing on implementing new solar inverter control techniques implemented with Fuzzy Logic. The power generated by a solar panel requires robust approaches and efficient methods to be used at its maximum. Therefore, a promising strategy is a Fuzzy Logic based on the Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) algorithm. To gather efficient power conversion, our proposed model uses a control loop composed of Fuzzy Proportional Integrative (PI) regulators, Clarke and Park transform, followed by a synchronization grid mechanism Second-order generalized integrator (SOGI) based phase-locked loops (PLLs). The proposed technique examines photovoltaic system (PV) performance with respect to its non-linearities and eventual shaded conditions that can occur in the PV array. The shading effect is tested by varying the irradiance, which determines the variation of the output current and implicitly of the output power. The simulation results show that the inverter control system is very efficient, generating stable and nearly sinusoidal current and voltage characteristics. Thus, the inverter converts over 99 % of the power generated by PV arrays.
Assessment of Energy Conservation Resource considering the Lighting service in Academic buildings seeking sustainable Energy planning
Authors: Sotero André , Udaeta Miguel , Gimenes André , Kurahassi Luiz Fernando
Published: December 2021

The objective of this work is to evaluate the full potential, since include technic-economic & environmental & social & policy dimensions, of the benefits of applying a demand side energy resource for considering for implementation of an energy efficiency project. Methodologically, this assessment was made by establishing values for energy resources in attributes and sub-attributes in the four different dimensions of the Integrated Resources Planning, which are: environmental dimension, social dimension, political dimension, and economic-technical dimension. The analysis of the energy efficiency project in four different perspectives makes this work innovative, most of the papers found in the academy does not consider the four dimensions studied here. The accounting of the full potential is also considered within this methodology, which makes it possible to evaluate its benefits in traditional and economic-technical aspects, as well as the dimensions of sustainable development. A case study was also developed on the replacement of traditional lamps for LED lamps in higher education institution. Results showed a decrease in CO2 emission in the atmosphere of 11.94 tons, the creation of 21 temporally job positions, reduction in the release of 52g of mercury in the environment and an injection of nearly 2 million dollars into the economy. Therefore, it was systematically proved that the benefits of the energy efficiency evaluated in the four dimensions increase sustainable development to all of society. With this work it is possible to concluded that all the society is impacted in different aspects after the implementation of an energy efficiency project in an energy consumer company e not only these companies
Urban trees to attract wild birds in a tropical urban residential complex in Sentul, West Java, Indonesia
Authors: Mardiastuti A
Published: December 2021

In an urban residential complex, in addition to providing environmental services, trees also attract wild birds. The objective of this research was to identify trees planted in tropical urban residential areas that can attract wild birds. The research was conducted in Sentul City Residential Complex, Bogor, West Java, by observing wild birds that visit certain trees as part of their habitat components. Trees provide nectar, fruits, seeds, and insects as food for birds and nest materials. Trees also have important functions as birds’ cover and nesting sites. There were 103 tree species, all basically supporting the life of 51 bird species found in the study area. Examples of nectar producer trees wereSpathodea campanulata,Callistemon citrinus, Erythrina crista-galli;fruit producers wereMuntingia calabura, Syzygium polyanthum, Ficus benjamina; seeds producers wereLeucaena leucocephala,Paraserianthes falcataria. Many trees also attracted insects for bird food, includingAcacia mangium, Samanea saman.Conifers and small twigs and leaf petioles/rachis of many legumes, for example,Delonix regia,Calliandra calothyrsus) can be used as nest materials. Careful selection of trees could attract many wild birds to increase the environmental quality of the residential areas.
Maximizing the social-economy impacts of urban green space in several cities in Indonesia
Authors: Ali S , Sulistiowati R , Wulandari C , Riniarti M
Published: December 2021

Trees in urban green space areas serve not only aesthetic purposes but also various ecological functions, including filtering air pollutants, improving groundwater quality, and generating biodiversity of flora and fauna. However, the presence of urban Urban Green Space (UGS) must equal 30% of the urban area, which is still constrained by regulations and community participation. Therefore, this paper aims to capture an overview of the existing UGS in several regions in Indonesia by using qualitative methods., which included over ten locations in Lampung and several cities throughout Indonesia for comparison, yielded several findings that can hopefully be used to inform the development of UGS policies. The findings demonstrate the numerous benefits of open space, particularly mental health, nature conservation, social interaction, and economic development. The critical nature of UGS, particularly in regencies/municipalities, requires increased awareness and effective management by involving as many stakeholders as possible, including the private sector and the community as users. The implication of this research is, in a sustainability context, with the need to instill sustainable behavior in users and to stimulate economic growth, a business model based on environmental stewardship is required, specifically the circular business model
Faloak (Sterculia quadrifida R.Br.) bark harvesting for curing hepatitis in Kupang City: Herbal medicine in the urban environment
Authors: Siswadi S , Saragih G S , Rianawati H , Umroni A , Pujiono E , Setyowati R , B Wuli Turu V F I D , Banani F
Published: December 2021

Trees in an urban environment play an important role. Studies have shown that the presence of trees can improve human physical and mental health. People in Kupang, Nusa Tenggara Timur Province, Indonesia, harvestSterculia quadrifidaR.Br. (faloak) bark for medicinal decoction for hepatitis and energy booster. Hepatitis cases in Kupang City continue to increase, from 40 cases in 2016 to 147 cases in 2017 and 220 cases in 2018. This study aimed to assessS. quadrifidabark harvesting intensity and its utilization in Kupang City. This study was conducted in five sub-districts in Kupang, namely Alak, Kelapa Lima, Kota Raja, Maulafa, and Oebobo. In each district, 20 faloak trees were selected to be observed. Parameters observed included: diameter, height, trees that were recently debarked and have recovered bark, distance from the road, and the presence of seedlings around the tree. The data were tabulated and analyzed descriptively. There were 98 trees observed because, in Kota Raja, only 18 faloak trees were found. The recently debarked trees in Kota Raja, Alak, and Maulafa were 54.12%, 49%, and 41.05%, respectively. Meanwhile, trees with recovered bark were found mainly in Kelapa Lima (50%), Oebobo (38.95%), and Kota Raja (31%). Most debarked faloak trees were those closest to roads and settlements with a diameter ranging from 10.38 to 89.17 cm. The distance from the road to the trees was 1-203 m. A large number of debarked faloak trees indicates a high demand for faloak bark.
The palm leaves falling periods and characteristics of royal palm (Roystonea regia (Kunth) F.Cook) at IPB Dramaga Campus, Bogor, Indonesia
Authors: Nindiar H E , Majiidu M , Adzkia U , Karlinasari L , Siregar I Z
Published: December 2021

Royal palm is widely planted as an ornamental plant and becomes part of parks and open landscapes in urban areas, especially on the roadside and in an urban forest. The leaves have a large size that can potentially cause harm to people or property under or around the tree. Information regarding the falling period and the weight of palm leaves was necessary in terms of risk mitigation of tree management. The study was conducted on ten royal palm trees by observing the incidence of leaf fall every three days during the period of September 2019 to March 2020. The palm leaves comprise the leaf sheath and the petiole. The results showed that the number of royal palm leaves was about 12 leaves per tree. Royal palm at IPB Dramaga campus has a tree height of about 12 m and a diameter of 40 cm. The period of fall of palm leaves is 30 to 40 days; although it may not fall every period, it can even fall once in 6 months. The average weight of the fallen leaves is about 8.2 kg, with a moisture content of 85.2%. Information on the period and weight of royal palm leaf fall are very important as information on risk mitigation activities in plant management in the urban landscape.
The ecological, economical and social benefit of Dukuh in South Kalimantan
Authors: Kissinger  , Pitri R M N
Published: December 2021

This study aims to reveal the ecological, economic dan social benefits of the Dukuh agroforestry system. The ecological data were collected using the survey method and interview. There were 16 quadrant plots measuring 20 m x 20 m placed in 4 selected Dukuh. The sampling method used was nested sampling. Fauna and characteristic of land were carried out using the exploration method by following the vegetation measurement plot. Data on socio economic benefits were obtained from interviews about the income, cost, ethnobotany, and social data. Some supporting data needed to be obtained from village office documents and literature references. The ecological data were analyzed by using species composition and diversity index. Species composition was analyzed by tabulation matrices. The species diversity index was calculated using the Shannon-Wiener Index. Economic benefits are assessed from the economic contribution of Dukuh. Ethnobotanical and social benefit data were analyzed descriptively. There are 38 species of trees and 14 species of understorey found in Dukuh. Shanon index value for tree and understorey of Dukuh species are > 2 (medium category). The ecological characters of Dukuh help retain soil aggregates, increase infiltration, reduce erosion and facilitate preference habitat for animal life. Some animals belong to the category of protected fauna (Manis javanica, Varanus borneensis, Harliantus indus). Aves diversity index value is H’= 2.54 (middle category). Dukuh is also a habitat for 13 species of soil fauna. The economic benefits are identified from: The dukuh’s harvest contributes 30% of the farmers’ total income; Some Dukuh plants are useful as emergency income and medicinal plants. The social benefit of Dukuh is increasing friendship between the community and improving the family’s social status. This information provides an overview of how successful local community forest farming is in providing benefits to the environment.
Measuring thermal comfort in a built environment: A case study in a Central Business District, Jakarta
Authors: Putri N A , Hermawan R , Karlinasari L
Published: December 2021

It is obvious that an increase in the built environment in many major cities is not balanced with the availability of green open space causing environmental problems such as an increase in accumulative city temperature (e.g., urban heat island). Therefore, many initiatives have been implemented to integrate more green open spaces in an effort to deal with increasing air temperatures in cities, but baseline information on the positive impact on the built environment is still lacking. The objective of this study was to identify thermal comfort in green open spaces and built environments in a central business district. Basic microclimate variables and thermal humidity index (THI) were analyzed in three sites representing the district by also considering the distribution of green open spaces, buildings, and traffics. Results showed that in the morning, the average temperature at the three sampling points have a low temperature (T=27.77-28.50°C) with high humidity (RH=77.21-80.97%) and the THI value is quite comfortable (THI=26.72-27.22°C), while during the daytime, the temperature conditions at the three sites have high temperatures (T=31.37-33.04°C) with low humidity (RH=63.30-65.80%) and high THI values (THI=29.22-30.62°C). In the afternoon, the temperature conditions at the three sample points have a high enough temperature (T=29.70-30.61°C) and high humidity (RH=67.36-71.02%), while the THI value is only in point two, which is close to the quite comfortable category (THI=27.98°C), while other locations have a value THI=28.60°C and 28.62°C. The results of this study mark the presence of green open space with the trees in the district has a positive effect on decreasing air temperature and hence increasing environmental comfort. The addition and enrichment of trees can be done to increase thermal comfort in the built environment.
Landscape management strategy of pekarangan to increase community immunity during the covid-19 pandemic in Java Indonesia – inductive research
Authors: Arifin H S , Nurhayati  , Kaswanto  , Budiadi  , Irwan S N R , Faisal B , Dahlan M Z , Nadhiroh S R , Wahyuni T S , Ali M S
Published: December 2021

The research results in the last two decades show the important role of pekarangan as a micro-scale landscape unit in providing space for growing various types of plants, i.e., multi-layers from the grasses to the trees, livestock, and fish. Pekarangan is defined with distinctive spatial patterns and elements as a representation of the harmonious relationship between the owner and the ecological character. Perceptions and preferences based on different social, cultural, and environmental factors shape the pekarangan pattern and function to become more diverse as a form of community local wisdom. The important role of pekarangan needs to be deeper elaborated in efforts to increase community immunity during the Covid-19 pandemic. Pekarangan has great potential to be developed as a mitigation and rehabilitation space by providing a variety of medicinal plants as well as outdoor activity spaces with a healthy environment quality. This research was designed for three years with three main approaches: (1) inductive method, which focuses on building theory from practices that have been known and carried out for generations, (2) implementation as an effort to actualize local knowledge, (3) multiplicative for the benefit of the important value of pekarangan. Studies start from basic research of pekarangan; research on the development of spatial planning and elements forming pekarangan; research on nutritional content contributed from pekarangan products. Data were obtained through pekarangan mapping, structured questionnaires at four selected locations in Cisadane, Citarum, Kali Progo, and Brantas Watersheds. The results of this research are expected to be implemented in public spaces on a meso scale and macro scales.
The role of the mahogany tree (Swietenia macrophylla King) on quantity and quality of water that fall below the canopy
Authors: Fadhilah M F , Hidayat Y , Hadiyane A
Published: December 2021

Mahogany trees (Swietenia macrophylla) are often planted in urban forests area. This shady-crowned tree has a role in controlling the quantity and quality of rainwater that falls to the ground. Mahogany trees also affect the quality of rainwater through interception, fall, and stemflow. The purpose of this research was to determine the impact of the interception process, such as throughfall and stemflow, on changes in rainwater quality of the mahogany tree. The Data that needed to be measured were tree dimension, rainfall interception, and rainwater quality. Interception measurement was performed by calculating the number of throughfall and stemflow in one month-measurement. While the measurement of rainwater quality was measured once in the laboratory. These water quality measurements include Electrical Conductivity (EC), hardness, the content of Elements Ca, Mg, Na and K, and pH concentrations. The results based on the total area of the crown showed that mahogany had an interception value of 18.088%. In the throughfall measurement, the mahogany has a throughfall of 81.799%, while the amount of the stemflow is only 0.113%. The correlation of interception values, throughfall, and stemflow with rainfall are in general positively correlated. That means the higher rainfall water will increase the number of interception, throughfall, and stemflow. The results on water quality measurement explain that Ec value in rainwater interception was increased compared to water produced from rainfall in mahogany trees. It also has the same condition in hardness measurement. In pH measurements, the interception of rainwater has less pH when compared to direct rainfall water. In addition, the content of Elements Ca, Mg, K, and Na in Stemflow and Throughfall water have more numbers than rainfall itself.
Tree species diversity on ebony habitat with different degradation levels in Sulawesi
Authors: Fatlan K F , Pamoengkas P , Majiidu M , Siregar I Z
Published: December 2021

Ebony (Diospyros celebica Bakh.) is endemic species to Sulawesi that is experiencing population decline. It is known that population size is an important element for the dynamics of natural forests through changes in vegetation structure and composition that need to be monitored. This study aims to analyze the species diversity in natural habitats of genetically diverse ebony, namely: i) Bantimurung National Park (BB), ii) Cani Sirenreng Nature Park (CS), iii) Farhumpenai Nature Reserve (FP), and iv) Pangi Binangga Nature Reserve (PB). Data collection was carried out based on a modified transect line and plot with 20 m x 100 m in size. The results showed that as many as 28 families were identified, consisting of 44 species at the tree level, 37 species at the pole level, 39 species at the sapling level, and 31 species at the seedling level, respectively. The composition of vegetation in Babul National Park consists of 32 species, Cani Sirenreng consists of 18 species, Farhumpenai consists of 19 species, and Pangi Binanngga consists of 19 species. The species composition was dominated by Diospyros celebica Bakh., Dracontomelon dao (Blanco) Merr. & Rolfe, Canangium odoratum, Ficus benjamina L., Pterospermum celebicum Miq., Kleinhovia hospita L. and Vitex cofassus Reinw. Ex Blume. The diversity index (H’-Index) of tree species in BB, CS, FP, and PB were 0.82, 1.13, 1.03, and 1.60, respectively. The Important Value Index (INP-Index) of ebony in BB, CS, FP and PB were 18.01%, 74.1%, 60.13% and 113.5%, respectively. The structure of the forest canopy layer in BB and FP consists of three layers of canopy, while CS and PB consist of two layers of canopy.
Species richness and IUCN status of commercial timber in Kedah Forest, Leuser ecosystem
Authors: Harnelly E , Martunis  , Hawati  , Iqbar
Published: December 2021

The Kedah Forest in Sumatra is one of the forests allocated for tourism and research purposes for the local or foreign communities. The Kedah Forest contains a wealth of biological natural resources, flora and fauna, including wood species with a high economic value (commercial). However, data on the diversity of commercial timber plant species in the area have not been recorded and documented, both in terms of tree species and their conservation status. This research aimed to identify commercial timber plant species and determine the population and conservation status of these species in the Kedah Forest. This study was carried out between October and December 2019. We assessed the species richness and the IUCN status of commercial timber species and assessed its conservation status in accordance with IUCN criteria. The result showed that Kedah Forest has 16 species of commercial timber plants from 11 families, of which six species of commercial timber plants have not been registered as commercial timber according to the Decree of the Minister of Forestry Number: 163/Kpts-II/2003 dated 26 May 2003. Four species of wood plants commercial forest in Kedah are listed on the IUCN Red List under the Near Threatened, Low Risk, and Data Less categories.
Ablation studies on YOLOFruit detection algorithm for fruit harvesting robot using deep learning
Authors: Lawal O M , Huamin Z , Fan Z
Published: December 2021

Fruit detection algorithm as an integral part of harvesting robot is expected to be robust, accurate, and fast against environmental factors such as occlusion by stem and leaves, uneven illumination, overlapping fruit and many more. For this reason, this paper explored and compared ablation studies on proposed YOLOFruit, YOLOv4, and YOLOv5 detection algorithms. The final selected YOLOFruit algorithm used ResNet43 backbone with Combined activation function for feature extraction, Spatial Pyramid Pooling Network (SPPNet) for detection accuracies, Feature Pyramid Network (FPN) for feature pyramids, Distance Intersection Over Union-Non Maximum Suppression (DIoU-NMS) for detection efficiency and accuracy, and Complete Intersection Over Union (CIoU) loss for faster and better performance. The obtained results showed that the average detection accuracy of YOLOFruit at 86.2% is 1% greater than YOLOv4 at 85.2% and 4.3% higher than YOLOv5 at 81.9%, while the detection time of YOLOFruit at 11.9ms is faster than YOLOv4 at 16.6ms, but not with YOLOv5 at 2.7ms. Hence, the YOLOFruit detection algorithm is highly prospective for better generalization and real-time fruit detection.
Near infrared spectra features of cocoa pod husk used for feedstuff
Authors: Samadi  , Wajizah S , Zulfahrizal Z
Published: December 2021

This presented study aimed to study the near infrared spectroscopic features of cocoa pod husk samples used as raw materials for animal feedstuff. Spectral data of organic material samples contains chemical properties information that can be revealed through modelling, Thus, the study of this features is essential to assess and reveal buried respective information. Cocoa pod husk samples were obtained from several districts in Aceh Province, grinded and prepared as bulk samples. Diffuse reflectance spectral data for a total of 30 bulk cocoa pod husk samples were acquired and recorded in wavelength range from 1000 to 2500 nm. Spectral data were firstly projected onto principal component analysis to observe similarities among samples. Spectra correction, namely mean normalization was employed to enhance spectra features. The results showed that several chemical information related to cocoa properties can be revealed such as dry matter, crude protein, crude fibre, ether extract, nitrogen-free extract and ash content due to the second and third overtones pf combination bands O-H, C-O-H and N-H. Optimum wavelength for estimating cocoa pod husk attributes are in 1217, 1405-1474 nm, 1629 nm, 1906-1979 nm, and 2283 nm. Based on obtained study, it may conclude that several quality attributes of animal feed samples further can be determined by means of near infrared spectroscopy approach.