bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Feasibility Study on Biological Nutrient Removal in Sequencing Batch Reactor Treating Municipal Wastewater
Authors: Aghouzi Samaneh Alijantabar , Choong Thomas S. Y. , Aida Isma M. I.
Published: April 2020

This study elucidates the performance of sequencing batch reactor for nutrient removal from municipal wastewater. The removal of COD, ammonia nitrogen and phosphorus were investigated. The SBR with a working volume of 5 L was operated for 6 hours, with 5 min fill, 30 min settle and
5 min effluent withdrawal. The remaining time in each cycle was 90 min anaerobic phase, 130 min anoxic phase and 110 min aerobic phase. The experiment was repeated with a longer aeration time of 180 min resulting to prolong the duration cycle. In the aerobic phase, dissolved oxygen was kept
in the range of more than 2 mg/L. During batch operation, the system attained stability and had a removal efficiency for ammonia nitrogen, COD and phosphorus of 51.36%, 83.33% and 99.53%, respectively. Extending the aeration period improved ammonia nitrogen removal to 54.27%. It should be
noted that the stability of the granular biomass agglomerates highly depending on the bacterial consortia. The particle size of sludge reduced from 60.26 μm to 39.00 μm in 60 days. It was observed that degranulation process and biomass loss was unavoidable.
Physical Model of Development of Assistance System Proficiency Test for Ubiquitous Learning-Based Information Competency Competencies
Authors: Firdaus Rangga , Wibawa Basuki , Khaerudin
Published: April 2020

Supporters compete for resources required for Technological changes, which usually a trade-off, involving many stakeholders, who are aware of changes. Understanding how to connect assets for learning is as important as the content because the knowledge of what is needed for tomorrow
is very important. Furthermore, the Mentoring System openly conducted for the proficiency tests, in the field of informatics, which is an alternative in solving problems in the Industrial Revolution 4.0. This article presents a study of open mentoring and also provides answers to how information
and communication technology facilitates the education process. The Research and Development characteristics of the model developed, broadly combines 3 interrelated system development prototypes, which include the Borg and Gall as the backbone, Hannafin, and Peck as the interaction process,
and the waterfall model serves as the creator of the mentoring application system. However, it is expected that the final results establish a digital learning platform, from national and international standard certification programs, based on the Professions and Competencies, provided by industry
and associations. However, other consequences include, to bridge the gap between the industrial world and university, as a physical standard, to obtain evidence from empirical data for Certification. Furthermore, it is also relevant as a Test field of IT based Ubiquitous study, based on its
impact, by increasing the competence in the field of informatics, for students and lecturers in Higher Education, department of Informatics and Computer Science Indonesia.
Multiple Keyword Searching Method Implementation for Data Searching on Data Center Application at P4M Stmik Dipanegara Makassar
Authors: Ahyuna  , Aisa Sitti , Akhriana Asmah , Aini Nurul
Published: April 2020

Center for Development of Research and Community Service (P4M) is a place where the entire academic community, especially at the Dipanegara School of Informatics and Computer Management (STMIK Dipanegara) Makassar, is looking for data on writing about the development of research and
community service that has been done. However, until now there is no system that manages all the data in Center for Development of Research and Community Service (P4M) STMIK Dipanegara Makassar, so the academic community is still having difficulty searching for data related to P4M in the forms
of journal data, Plus Field Work Lecture (KKLP) data and all data handled by P4M STMIK Dipanegara Makassar. To fulfil these needs, a system that can manage the data is required, a system that has an effective and more efficient search. The effective search referred to in this case is a search
that can trace all data related to keywords entered by the user, commonly referred to as Multiple Keyword Searching. With this system, it will be very easy for the user (academic community) to browse Data/Documents related to P4M STMIK Dipanegara Makassar and from the results of white box
testing, there is no logical error in the application of Multiple Keyword Searching.
Development of Information System for Building Maintenance of Rented Housing Based on Work Breakdown Structure with Building Information Modeling
Authors: Watchson Deka , Latief Yusuf
Published: April 2020

Numbers of rented-housing has been rapidly increased as an impact of program and policy by Indonesian government. Rented-housing are a solution for housing in urban slums and low-income communities that are subsidized by the government. It provides challenges in the post-construction
phase especially building maintenance activities. Operation and Maintenance phase takes the longest and the most expensive period in building lifecycle. About 75–80% of Total Life Cycle Cost of a building is spent during operation and maintenance phase. The problems are poor quality
of rented-housing, damaged buildings and not well maintained. Those problems impact high maintenance cost that must be afforded by the occupants. The problem derived by leak of information and maintenance schedule, number of maintenance personnel and competencies. This study aims to improve
the performance of building maintenance of rented-housing by developing Information Systems, so the building functions as it’s designed. Information System is proposed be solution for effective data management and scheduling of during maintenance building. Data and building information
are important and have to be managed in order to perform building maintenance. Scope of building maintenance can be defined dynamically by Work Breakdown Structure (WBS). Building Information Modeling (BIM) is used to handle technical data of building. Data of WBS, checking information, material
and equipment information, supplier information, and building components parameters should be embedded in 3D/BIM model in order to effectively data storage on maintenance phase. The 3D/BIM object which effectively link with the information system has proposed an integration of scope management
and schedule management. This research is qualitative, study case on rented-housing in Jakarta. Data obtained through literature analysis, and validated by experts to conclude the variable related to develop maintenance schedule in development of information systems. The result of the study
is WBS-based Information System with BIM. Proposed Information Systems based on WBS using BIM can improve the performance of building maintenance.
YouTube Videos of Terrorists: A Visual Analysis
Authors: Jano Zanariah , Janor Hawati , Pilus Asiah Mohd
Published: April 2020

Terrorist groups are using the Internet to attract their followers. This paper analyzed the nature of terrorists’ videos in terms of types, modus operandi and production features. A content analysis was utilized involving 4 YouTube videos in terms of types, modus operandi and
features. The findings yielded that the types of videos used were hostage-taking, educational training documentaries, and conveying messages. Most videos were published by groups, given Arabic and English subtitles, have medium to high-quality with professional editing with the recital and
prayers. Video is a platform to spread their ideologies and messages for a new recruitment of members. Future study should include more videos from other groups for means of comparison.
Mobile Applications for Learning: Exploring Information Technology Undergraduates’ Preference in Malaysia
Authors: Kumar Jeya Amantha , Kumar Vishnu Nagendran , Sanmugam Mageswaran , Osman Sharifah
Published: April 2020

Mobile devices, mobile applications (apps), smartphones, tabs are all tools used in the proliferation of mobile learning. These devices have been influential in changing how students communicate and learn today hence revolutionizing the 21st-century classroom. A total of 79 Information
Technology undergraduates from two higher education institutes participated in this study. Findings revealed that WhatsApp was the most used application for communicating and sharing learning contents with peers and lecturers. Respondents used YouTube and Internet browsers to access alternative
learning contents and the least used applications were related to learning management (calendar and cloud storage). Furthermore, results indicated no significant difference between gender and academic year towards their perception and concurrently all students had a positive perception towards
using mobile technology for teaching and learning.
User Acceptance of Digital 2D Animation for Educational Visualization Application: Bintang Hati Novel
Authors: Ahmad Ainul Maulid bin , Aziz Mu’azah Bt. Md , Abdullah Wan Mahani Bt. , Shahrudin Muhammad Shahrizan B. , Ahmad Airuddin B. , Dalee Muhammadda-E
Published: April 2020

Digital 2D Animation for Educational Visualization is a desktop courseware application. It digitalized the traditional short story of PT3 novel in 2D animation. The secondary school is still using the narrative novel in certain subjects such as Malay Language. Consequently, students
are not interested in reading the entire page is cluttered with text. The purpose of this research is to evaluate user acceptance of Digital 2D Animation for Educational Visualization Application by doing test to 30 secondary schools students in one of the districts of Kedah. The development
of this application is used to transform from conventional teaching and learning process to the digital teaching and learning process. In the digital era, teachers can communicate teaching experiences to students in a more fun way of delivering ideas with the help of animation in learning
as a teaching tool aid. The results indicate that animation can be used as a teaching aid tool to improve students’ academic performance especially to developing countries like Malaysia.
Influence on Transport Properties by Utilizing Unsteady Squeezed Magnetohydrodynamics Flow of Copper and Single Wall Carbon Nanotube Mineral Oil-Based Insulating Nanofluid in Traction Transformer of an Electric Train: A Numerical Study
Authors: Deenesh N. K. , Hasnan Khalid , Kandasamy R. , Nayan Nafarizal
Published: April 2020

Mineral oil and synthetic ester are mainly used as the dielectric and insulating fluid for traction transformer in an electric train. Due to excessive heat caused by the high-power supply and frequent travel cycle, the traction transformer faces faster thermal aging. A lot of researches
have been performed to improve the heat transfer and thermal conductivity of the current insulating fluid. Recent studies show that adding nanoparticles can enhance the transport properties of the existing fluid in the marketplace. The “try and error” experiment method in order
to get the optimum nanofluid will be costly and will cause higher viscosity, making the fluid hard to circulate in the cooling system. In order to conduct a cleaner, low cost and sustainable experiment, mathematic modeling was chosen as the best option for behavior prediction prior to any
experiment. The problem modeling is centered on the geometry and the interaction of nanoparticles namely: copper (Cu) and Single-Wall Carbon Nano Tube (SWCNT) with a homogeneous blend of mineral oil (MO). Unsteady squeezed Magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) flow was considered as the pump of the transformer
will squeeze and force the fluid to circulate in the real cooling system. The main partial differential equations of momentum and energy are changed into Ordinary Differential Equation (ODE) and answered numerically and analytically using fourth or fifth order Runge Kutte Fehlberg method via
shooting technique. Rate of heat transfer and thermal conductivity of insulating nanofluid were chosen as target factors. The volume concentration of 2%, 5% and 7%, different shapes of nanoparticles and the influence of the electric field were regarded as input factors. The comparison between
solutions has been made and the influence of varying the input factors has been shown graphically. It was investigated that laminar shaped insulating nanofluids have a greater rate of heat transfer and higher thermal conductivity.
The Effect of Temperature on Nickel Deposited as an Underlayer Between Copper Filler and Silicon Wafer
Authors: Mohd Amin Nurfatin Liyana , Rahim Muhamad Khairudin , Fadil Nor Akmal , Amrin Astuty
Published: April 2020

Through silicon via (TSV) has garnered a lot of interest in the semiconductor industry due to its ability to provide the shortest interconnect path. The coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) mismatch between the copper (Cu) interconnection filler and the silicon (Si) wafer result in
reliability issues of the TSV system. This research proposed the introduction of an underlayer between the Cu filler and Si wafer in order to reduce the CTE mismatch in the TSV. The chosen underlayer is nickel (Ni) as it has a CTE value placed in between Cu and Si at 13 ppm/°C (Cu = 17
ppm/°C, Si = 2.8 ppm/°C). The Ni layer was deposited using the electroless deposition process at different temperature of plating bath (75 °C, 85 °C, and 95 °C) and deposition time (20, 40, and 60 minutes). The analysis of the microstructure of the Ni layer deposited on
the Si wafer was characterized. The adhesion test was conducted using the ATM D3359 (Measuring Adhesion by Tape Test) Standard for coating adhesion test and the 4-Point Probe Test for the resistivity measurement. It was found that the optimum Ni plating temperature was at 85 °C based on
its adhesion and high stability of plating bath. The resistivity test showed that the increased of Nickel underlayer thickness deposited between copper and Si wafer has slightly increased the resistivity.
Paddy Growing Stages Model Based on Vegetation Indices Using Ultra-High Spatial Resolution Images
Authors: Supriatna S. , Afdhalia Fida , Ash Shidiq Iqbal Putut , Mandini Manessa Masita Dwi , Ristya Yoanna
Published: April 2020

Paddy is one of the most important food sources in Indonesia. It is evidenced by the increasing number of national rice consumption averagely at 6.29% per year, particularly in 2011–2015. However, the production seems does not equally match the rise in consumption. Estimates in
rice production are relatively unreliable. It is due to the uneven planting time in several areas and a conventional method applied to estimate the production. This study proposes alternative methods to estimate rice production. This study aims to analyze the paddy growing stages and determine
the most optimal model to estimate the paddy growing stages based on the vegetation indices. This study used the excellence of remote sensing technology especially for paddy field monitoring, emphasizing on paddy growing stages assessment. An airborne remote sensing platform, specifically
the Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) is used to map the rice field in Bekasi Regency, West Java Province. Through mapping at low altitude, the UAV can produce images with ultra-high resolution, so it is very well used for mapping the paddy growing stages with diverse characteristics. Several
vegetation indices, derived from Red, Green, and Blue (RGB) bands, namely Normalized Green Red Difference Index (NGRDI), Excess Green Vegetation Index (ExG), and Visible Atmospherically Resistant Index (VARI). Furthermore, the regression model is used to obtain the most optimal model of the
three vegetation indices used for estimating the paddy growing stages. The result showed that the UAV with RGB bands could be used as a sensor to determine the relationship between vegetation indices to the paddy growing stages and the most optimal model for estimating the paddy growing stages
based on the vegetation indices is ExG (R2 = 0.88).
Crime Investigation Tracker Using Clustering Algorithm
Authors: Md Johar Md Gapar , Ibrahim Zairina , Ramli Norsyahira
Published: April 2020

The clustering algorithm is a method of distributing the population or data points into different groups in a way that data points in a single group are alike to each other in the same group and different from the data points from another groups. Simply, the objective is to isolate
groups with similar qualities and allocate them into groups. This research, focus on K-means algorithm. Therefore, type of clustering algorithm used to cluster a group of data without categories. As, the clustering is a subjective phenomenon, that can be employed for accomplishing this
objective to find and create group in the data with K as the representation of the number of the groups. Thus, the algorithm procedure uses a dissimilar set of guidelines for describing the relationship between data points and will be clustered together. Indeed, there are over 100 clustering
algorithms recognized. However, a crime investigation tracker using clustering algorithm uses K-means algorithm to group the identical crime to be clustered accordingly type of crime recorded in the system. For the system, will be developed using Java programming to build the interface
with MySQL as the database to provide a better management to store and retrieve the report. A methodology to develop the system is using Agile Unified Process (AUP) is consists of inception, elaboration, construction, and transition to conducts the current problem of system that various crimes
have been increasing, unorganized reports in storage and interface less user friendly of the current system.
Implementation of Clustering Algorithm Method for Customer Segmentation
Authors: Nurmalasari  , Mukhayaroh Anna , Marlina Siti , Hartini Sari , Muryani Sri , Sinnun Ahmad , Nurajizah Siti , Adiwihardja Cep
Published: April 2020

The intense competition in the sale of goods and services in the digital era of e-commerce requires to manage customers optimally. Some online shops try to improve their marketing strategies by classifying their customers. This study aims to determine potential customers, namely loyal
customers. Potential customers can be determined by customer segmentation. Sampling from several online shops in Indonesia. The model used for segmentation is RFM (Recency, Frequency, and Monetary) and data mining techniques, namely clustering method with the K-Means algorithm. The
results of this segmentation research divide the customer into 2 clusters. The best number of clusters is determined based on the Davies Bouldin index. The first cluster is cluster 0 consisting of 261 customers with RFM Score between 111–543. The first cluster includes the Everyday Shopper
group. The second cluster, cluster 1 consists of 102 customers with RFM Score 443–555. The second cluster includes the Golden Customer group. With the existence of research on customer segmentation, it is expected to help in grouping customers so that companies can determine the right
strategy for each group of customers.
Reservoir Quality and Flow Unit Characterization of a Reservoir in X Field, Baram Delta
Authors: Rahim Najmuddin Abdul , Wan Yusoff Wan Ismail
Published: April 2020

Reservoir stratigraphic continuity are uncertainties that may be due to lack of facies association definition in reservoirs. These uncertainties come into play where proper porosity–permeability (poroperm) evaluation is misrepresented, leading to volumetric estimation uncertainties.
Most oil fields in the Baram Delta have been previously studied with the development of static models. The lack of sequence stratigraphic input in the study was due to constraints including fault shadowing and gas chimney presence which deterred the volume estimations. Earlier interpretation
of facies distribution and depositional environment of a field, named X, was achieved mainly by using core descriptions and interpretations. In this study, a reinterpretation of the depositional environment and facies distribution were carried out in the R1 and R2 reservoirs. The analysis
was done by incorporating the depositional environment and facies with newly interpreted facies comprising of sand, silty sand, sandy shale and shale facies, created using neural network programme. Utilising newly set facies definitions with additional inputs including porosity and permeability
data, a better facies distribution for the reservoir is emplaced. With the facies definitions set for 3 wells, the reservoir quality was investigated through poroperm relationship, reservoir quality index (RQI) and fluid flow unit interpretation. The new definitions for reservoir facies consequently
matched well to the core descriptions. The R1 reservoir facies-poroperm relationship were clustered well with respect to each facies type. The RQI was then evaluated from the permeability and porosity values for all the selected wells. The fluid flow units were estimated using depth interval
difference, effective porosity and permeability data. The fluid flow regimes are different for all the wells, where the updip Well B displayed significantly better flow capacity than both Well C and Well A. However, Well C also displayed good fluid flow capability, indicated by high gradient
flow capacity over storage capacity, although with presence of some layers of poor flow quality. Good communication for the downdip wells provides a potential for lateral fluid flow component which can influence the storage and flow capacity of fluid in the updip Well A, and thus creating
an overall control and validation of fluid capacity in the reservoir.
Hydrophilically Modified Poly(vinylidene fluoride) Membrane for Removal of Methylene Blue Dye
Authors: Hamdan J. , Hasbullah H. , Sokri M. N. M. , Sabri N. S. M. , Suran M. A. F. , Ibrahim N. , Ali R. R. , Rahman S. A.
Published: April 2020

Polyvinylidene Fluoride (PVDF) has been used as a membrane’s base material for wastewater treatment for quite some time. Due to PVDF hydrophobic nature, fouling will occur, thus, reducing the membrane performance. The main objective of this study was to investigate the effect
of various chitosan loadings on membrane hydrophilicity and overall liquid separation performance. The loadings of chitosan (wt.%) used were neat PVDF, 0.25%, 0.5%, 0.75% and 1% in PVDF mixed matrix membrane. It was found that 0.75% chitosan membrane had the lowest contact angle of 63°
making it the most hydrophilic. The pure water flux test on the membranes also showed the same trend where the lowest contact angle resulting in the highest pure water flux. The PVDF membrane containing 0.75% chitosan possessed the highest pure water flux of 43.5 Lm−2h−1.
With the rejection of dye of over 43.12%. The study proved that adding chitosan into PVDF membrane certainly improved the membrane hydrophilicity and the percentage removal of methylene blue dye.
Effect of Sintering Temperature on Morphology, Mechanical Properties and Degradation Rate of Magnesium Alloy as Biodegradable Material
Authors: Purniawan Agung , Timotius Peter Andreas , Purwaningsih Hariyati , Wicaksono Sigit Tri , Rasyida Amaliya
Published: April 2020

Mg-alloy has possibility to be used as biodegradable biomaterial. The main problem in application of this material is high degradation rate. The aim of this research is to study the mechanical, morphology and the degradation properties of Mg-alloy biodegradable by variation of sintering
temperature of 500 °C, 550 °C, and 600 °C. Morphology was investigated using SEM-EDX. Phase identification was carried out by XRD and mechanical qualities test was measured by compressive and hardness test. Degradation rate test was assessed by weight loss test. The outcomes show
that Mg–Zn– Cu sample with sintering temperature 600 °C is the optimum result. The compressive strength is 175,14 MPa, the hardness value is 410,59 MPa, and degradation rate is 8,57 cm/year.
Preventive and Curative Personality Profiling Based on EEG, ERP, and Big Five Personality Traits: A Literature Review
Authors: Saffiera Cut Amalia , Hassan Raini , Ismail Amelia Ritahani
Published: April 2020

Healthy lifestyle is a significant factor that impacts on the budget for medicine. According to psychological studies, personality traits based on the Big Five personality traits especially the neuroticism and conscientiousness, have the ability to predict healthy lifestyle profiling.
Electrophysiological signals have been used to explore the nature of individual differences and personality that are related to perception. In this paper, we reviewed studies examining healthy lifestyle profile i.e., preventive and curative using electroencephalography (EEG) and event-related
potential (ERP) signals. This study proposed a general experimental model by reviewing the literature to build suitable experimental design for implementing artificial intelligence techniques based on the machine learning.
Assessment of Myocardial Perfusion by Angiographic Methods in Tortuous Coronary Arteries
Authors: Esenboga Kerim , Baskovski Emir , Sahin Ebru , Ozyuncu Nil , Tan Turkan Seda , Candemir Basar , Turhan Sibel , Tutar Eralp
Published: April 2020

The relationship between coronary tortuosity (CorT) and tissue-level myocardial perfusion is not clear. We investigated tissue perfusion in myocardial territories supplied by tortuous coronary arteries. Among patients who had undergone coronary angiography, patients with reported CorT, those with ≥1 coronary artery were included in the study group (100 patients). The control group included patients with normal coronary arteries (100 patients). Thrombolysis In Myocardial Infarction frame count (TFC) and myocardial blush grade (MBG) were calculated for each coronary artery. Mean TFC was significantly higher in tortuous right coronary artery (RCA), left anterior descending (LAD) artery, and circumflex (Cx) artery compared to their non-tortuous counterparts (28.81 ± 6.463 vs 21.94 ± 3.328, P = .009; 43.28 ± 5.698 vs 36.17 ± 3.875, P = .006; 29.35 ± 4.111 vs 23.821 ± 2.639; P < .001, respectively). Mean MBG was also significantly lower in tortuous RCA, LAD, and Cx, compared to their normal counterparts (2.78 ± 0.417 vs 2.98 ± 0.155, P < .001; 2.74 ± 0.483 vs 2.97 ± 0.164, P < .001; 2.92 ± 0.277 vs 2.99 ± 0.110, P < .001, respectively). For each tortuous coronary artery, TFC was similar for every MBG category. Tortuous coronary arteries have higher TFC and lower MBG, suggesting impaired epicardial and microvascular coronary flow, when compared to normal coronary arteries.
Comparison of Individual and Integrated Inline Raman, Near-Infrared, and Mid-Infrared Spectroscopic Models to Predict the Viscosity of Micellar Liquids
Authors: Haroon Kiran , Arafeh Ali , Cunliffe Stephanie , Martin Philip , Rodgers Thomas , Mendoza Ćesar , Baker Michael
Published: April 2020

In many industries, viscosity is an important quality parameter which significantly affects consumer satisfaction and process efficiency. In the personal care industry, this applies to products such as shampoo and shower gels whose complex structures are built up of micellar liquids. Measuring viscosity offline is well established using benchtop rheometers and viscometers. The difficulty lies in measuring this property directly in the process via on or inline technologies. Therefore, the aim of this work is to investigate whether proxy measurements using inline vibrational spectroscopy, e.g., near-infrared (NIR), mid-infrared (MIR), and Raman, can be used to predict the viscosity of micellar liquids. As optical techniques, they are nondestructive and easily implementable process analytical tools where each type of spectroscopy detects different molecular functionalities. Inline fiber optic coupled probes were employed; a transmission probe for NIR measurements, an attenuated total reflectance probe for MIR and a backscattering probe for Raman. Models were developed using forward interval partial least squares variable selection and log viscosity was used. For each technique, combinations of pre-processing techniques were trialed including detrending, Whittaker filters, standard normal variate, and multiple scatter correction. The results indicate that all three techniques could be applied individually to predict the viscosity of micellar liquids all showing comparable errors of prediction: NIR: 1.75 Pa s; MIR: 1.73 Pa s; and Raman: 1.57 Pa s. The Raman model showed the highest relative prediction deviation (RPD) value of 5.07, with the NIR and MIR models showing slightly lower values of 4.57 and 4.61, respectively. Data fusion was also explored to determine whether employing information from more than one data set improved the model quality. Trials involved weighting data sets based on their signal-to-noise ratio and weighting based on transmission curves (infrared data sets only). The signal-to-noise weighted NIR–MIR–Raman model showed the best performance compared with both combined and individual models with a root mean square error of cross-validation of 0.75 Pa s and an RPD of 10.62. This comparative study provides a good initial assessment of the three prospective process analytical technologies for the measurement of micellar liquid viscosity but also provides a good basis for general measurements of inline viscosity using commercially available process analytical technology. With these techniques typically being employed for compositional analysis, this work presents their capability in the measurement of viscosity—an important physical parameter, extending the applicability of these spectroscopic techniques.
Differentiating Between Malignant Mesothelioma and Other Pleural Lesions Using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy
Authors: Sadiku-Zehri Fatlinda , Gamulin Ozren , Škrabić Marko , Qerimi-Krasniqi Ardita , Sedlić Filip , Šepac Ana , Brčić Luka , Vuletić Lovorka Batelja , Seiwerth Sven
Published: April 2020

Histopathology, despite being the gold standard as a diagnostic tool, does not always provide a correct diagnosis for different pleural lesions. Although great progress was made in this field, the problem to differentiate between reactive and malignant pleural lesions still stimulates the search for additional diagnostic tools. Our research using vibrational spectroscopy and principal component analysis (PCA) statistical modeling represents a potentially useful tool to approach the problem. The objective method this paper explores is based on the correlation between different types of pleural lesions and their vibrational spectra. Obtained tissue spectra recorded by infrared spectroscopy allowed us to categorize spectra in different groups using a created PCA statistical model. The PCA model was built using tissues of known pathology as the model group. The validation samples were then used to confirm the functionality of our PCA model. Student’s t-test was also used for comparing samples in paired groups. The PCA model was able to clearly differentiate the spectra of mesothelioma, metastasis and reactive changes (inflammation), and place them in discrete groups. Thus, we showed that Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy combined with PCA can differentiate pleural lesions with high sensitivity and specificity. This new approach could contribute in objectively differentiating specific pleural lesions, thus helping pathologists to better diagnose difficult pleural samples but also could shed additional light into the biology of malignant pleural mesothelioma.
The making of Jewish authenticity: The hybrid discourse of authenticity of New Age Judaism and the complexities of religious individualization
Authors: Werczberger Rachel
Published: April 2020

This article offers an ethnographically informed discussion of the hybrid discourse of authenticity of two New Age Judaism (NAJ) communities that were active in Israel in the beginning of the millennium. The article argues that the discourse of authenticity of the two communities was a hybrid discourse which interweaved two overlapping understandings of expressive authenticity: genealogical or historical (origin) and identity or correspondence (expressive content). The members of the communities aspired for self-realization and fulfillment by discovering their authentic self and at the same time articulated and legitimized their mission of renewal by referring to earlier, allegedly more spiritual time periods in Jewish history. This discourse is understood in terms of the “inward turn” and the “turn to tradition” of contemporary Jewish life as well as the penetration of consumer logic into Jewish forms of spirituality. As such it showcases the complexities of Jewish individualization whereby the focus on the self and self-authenticity is tightly linked to the cultivation of identity and communal belonging.
Efficient learning modules for embedded system
Authors: Chu Yul , Park Jin H
Published: April 2020

In this paper, we propose an efficient three-module pedagogical system for embedded systems learning, which will provide students effective ways of learning embedded systems through basic concepts, current technology for hardware and software design, and team projects. The proposed pedagogical approach is based on the systematic learning through evidence-based teaching, knowledge mobilization, and research strategies. In our approach, it is recommended to use two platforms, µVision (simulator) and one microcontroller (hardware), such as Arduino or Raspberry Pi. Raspberry Pi is a small single-board computer, which can be used as a brain for innovative computing projects, such as network monitoring tool, at a reasonable cost. Arduino is the most popular microcontroller (based on the ATmega328), which is a flexible and easy-to-use device for conducting various embedded systems projects. Those platforms have been used for many embedded systems projects, including home automation, Internet of Things, robots, games, and servers. We evaluated our proposed three modules based on student performance and feedback. As a result, we conclude that the proposed modules work better than a traditional learning methodology.
A new multimodel approach by Laguerre filters on sliding window for nonlinear system identification and control
Authors: Adaily Sameh , Mbarek Abdelkader , Garna Tarek
Published: April 2020

This paper proposes an online identification procedure on sliding window with the synthesis of a nonlinear adaptive predictive control for a new nonlinear model resulting in multimodel approach. Such a model is entitled ARX-Laguerre multimodel obtained by expanding the conventional ARX multimodel on independent Laguerre orthonormal bases. It allows a significant parameter number reduction as well as a simple recursive representation compared with the ARX-multimodel. This parametric reduction is provided from an optimal iteratif identification approach of the Laguerre poles presented in Adaily et al. (2013). We propose to combine and carry out this identification approach on a sliding window to achieve an online identification procedure of the ARX-Laguerre multimodel for real time procedure depending on Fourier coefficients that are identified by a regularized square error. This property allows to synthese a new nonlinear adaptive predictive control on sliding window. We develop the general form of a new predictor and so, we propose an optimization algorithm formulated as a quadratic programming (QP) under linear constraints for an adaptive control law. The performances of the proposed online identification procedure and the developed nonlinear adaptive control algorithm are illustrated on a benchmark system as the continuous stirred tank reactor system (CSTR) with respect to the process parameter uncertainties.
Control of magnetic levitation system using recurrent neural network-based adaptive optimal backstepping strategy
Authors: Fatemimoghadam Armita , Toshani Hamid , Manthouri Mohammad
Published: April 2020

In this paper, a novel approach is proposed for adjusting the position of a magnetic levitation system using projection recurrent neural network-based adaptive backstepping control (PRNN-ABC). The principles of designing magnetic levitation systems have widespread applications in the industry, including in the production of magnetic bearings and in maglev trains. Levitating a ball in space is carried out via the surrounding attracting or repelling magnetic forces. In such systems, the permissible range of the actuator is significant, especially in practical applications. In the proposed scheme, the procedure of designing the backstepping control laws based on the nonlinear state-space model is carried out first. Then, a constrained optimization problem is formed by defining a performance index and taking into account the control limits. To formulate the recurrent neural network (RNN), the optimization problem is first converted into a constrained quadratic programming (QP). Then, the dynamic model of the RNN is derived based on the Karush-Kuhn-Tucker (KKT) optimization conditions and the variational inequality theory. The convergence analysis of the neural network and the stability analysis of the closed-loop system are performed using the Lyapunov stability theory. The performance of the closed-loop system is assessed with respect to tracking error and control feasibility.
The Structure and Determinants of Intergenerational Support Exchange Flows in an Eastern European Setting
Authors: Bó Boróka , Zimmer Zachary , Rada Codrina
Published: April 2020

Although the provision, receipt, and bidirectionality of support exchanges are important for generational well-being, our understanding of them is lacking in Eastern Europe, a region undergoing swift population aging and social change. This study links intergenerational support exchanges to determinants in Romania, with a focus on proximity of adult children. Data are from the Romanian Aging and Migration Survey ( N = 1,398). Analyses involve two stages. First, latent class analysis (LCA) is conducted to develop an intergenerational support typology. The second uses the typology as a dependent variable in multivariate equations predicting exchange determinants. LCA analysis yielded six propensity classes. Physical distance strongly predicts class membership. Having coresident adult children increases the likelihood of bidirectional exchange. Having an international migrant adult child reduces the chances, even with coresident adult children present. International migrant children lead to a higher probability of being a nonexchanger or receiving monetary support. There is a need for continued consideration of bidirectional exchange models in rapidly developing contexts.
Anesthesia for TORS for Oropharyngeal Carcinoma: Factors Associated with Prolonged Phase I Postanesthesia Recovery
Authors: Puccinelli Cassandra L. , Moore Eric J. , Yin Linda X. , Price Daniel L. , Janus Jeffrey R. , Weingarten Toby N. , Van Abel Kathryn M.
Published: April 2020

Objectives

Clinical variables affecting anesthetic recovery following transoral robotic surgery (TORS) to resect oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma have not been described. We aimed to explore risk factors associated with prolonged postanesthesia recovery following TORS.

Study Design

Retrospective case‐control study.

Setting

Tertiary referral center, January 2010 to November 2016.

Subjects and Methods

Patients included adults undergoing primary TORS ± neck dissection for oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma. Patients were categorized by phase I recovery time into the “goal” recovery group (75th percentile [lower 3 quartiles], n = 272) and the “prolonged” recovery group (n = 91). Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to assess the associations between clinical characteristics and prolonged phase I recovery.

Results

A total of 363 patients were included. Median (interquartile range) duration of postanesthesia recovery was 1.5 hours (1.0‐2.0). Prolonged recovery was associated with isoflurane (odds ratio, 2.83 [95% CI, 1.56‐5.14], P <. 001), midazolam (2.77 [1.50‐5.12], P =. 001), and larger opioid doses (1.26 [1.01‐1.58] per 10‐mg intravenous morphine equivalents, P =. 040) and inversely associated with multimodal antiemetic therapy (0.34 [0.15‐0.78], P =. 011). Prolonged cases had higher rates of postoperative nausea and vomiting (n = 43 [47.2%] vs 86 [31.6%], P =. 008), respiratory depression (28 [30.8%] vs 12 [4.4%], P <. 001), sedation (Richmond Agitation‐Sedation Scale < –2; 26 [28.6%] vs 35 [12.9%], P =. 001), severe pain (numeric rating score ≥7; 31 [34.4%] vs 45 [17.2%], P =. 001), and longer hospital stays (4 vs 3 days, P <. 001).

Conclusions

Several anesthetic factors are associated with anesthesia recovery duration, which may be shortened by efforts to reduce postoperative sedation, severe pain, and nausea/vomiting. Shortened anesthesia recovery time may reduce hospital stay.
Flexible Laryngoscopy and COVID‐19
Authors: Rameau Anaïs , Young VyVy N. , Amin Milan R. , Sulica Lucian
Published: April 2020

Flexible laryngoscopy, the gold‐standard evaluation of the larynx and the pharynx, is one of the most commonly performed procedures in otolaryngology. During the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic, flexible laryngoscopy represents a risk for patients and an occupational hazard for otolaryngologists and any clinic staff involved with the procedure or endoscope reprocessing. Here we present a set of recommendations on flexible laryngoscopy performance during the pandemic, including patient selection, personal protective equipment, and endoscope disinfection, based on a consensus reached during a virtual webinar on March 24, 2020, attended by approximately 300 participants from the American laryngology community.
Insights on Otolaryngology Residency Training during the COVID‐19 Pandemic
Authors: Crosby Dana L. , Sharma Arun
Published: April 2020

Otolaryngology residency training programs are facing a novel challenge due to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2. The widespread impact and chronicity of this pandemic makes it unique from any crisis faced by our training programs to date. This international medical crisis has the potential to significantly alter the course of training for our current resident cohort. The decrease in clinical opportunities due to the limitations on elective surgical cases and office visits as well as potential resident redeployment could lead to a decline in overall experience as well as key indicator cases. It is important that we closely monitor the impact of this pandemic on resident education and ensure the implementation of alternative learning strategies while maintaining an emphasis on safety and well‐being.
Teaching higher order thinking skills to gifted students: A meta-analysis
Authors: Lo C Owen , Feng Li-Chuan
Published: April 2020

The current study examined the effects of higher order thinking skills (HOTS) interventions with gifted students in Taiwan. A total of 25 studies published between 1997 and 2017 were included. Twenty-nine effect sizes were extracted for the 25 studies. The small number of existing studies indicates a lack of scholarly attention to HOTS in gifted education in Taiwan in the past two decades. On the other hand, the effect sizes, ranged from 0.26 to 2.01, with a mean of 0.78 and standard deviation of 0.39, showed moderately large effect sizes for these interventions, which can be interpreted as evidence for general effectiveness. Subgroup analyses indicated that intervention effects did not vary significantly by grade level, type of program, intervention dosage, and type of dissemination. However, a statistically significant difference was found between the effect sizes in different types of instructional design (i.e. stand-alone HOTS unit vs. integrated HOTS unit). Implications are discussed.
Brain deep medullary veins on 3-T MRI in a population-based cohort
Authors: Ao Dong-Hui , Zhang Ding-Ding , Zhai Fei-Fei , Zhang Jiang-Tao , Han Fei , Li Ming-Li , Ni Jun , Yao Ming , Zhang Shu-Yang , Cui Li-Ying , Jin Zheng-Yu , Zhou Li-Xin , Zhu Yi-Cheng
Published: April 2020

Our aim is to investigate whether vascular risk factors are associated with cerebral deep medullary veins (DMVs) and whether DMVs are associated with MRI markers of cerebral small vessel disease (CSVD) or risk of stroke. In a community-based cohort of 1056 participants (mean age 55.7 years), DMVs were identified on susceptibility-weighted imaging (SWI) and counted in periventricular regions. Neuroimaging markers including lacunes, whiter matter hyperintensity (WMH), microbleeds, enlarged perivascular space, and brain atrophy were evaluated. The number of DMVs decreased with age (p = 0.007). After adjusting for age and sex, the number of DMVs was not associated with traditional vascular risk factors. Fewer DMVs was associated with increase of WMH and lacunes, but the association vanished after adjustment for vascular risk factors. However, fewer DMVs were independently associated with brain atrophy (p < 0.001). DMVs were not associated with three-year risk of stroke. Our results suggest that DMV is significantly different from other MRI markers of CSVD regarding risk factors, association with other CSVD markers, and risk of stroke. Nonetheless, the significant association between DMV and brain atrophy suggested the potential role of venules in age-related neurodegenerative process, which deserves further investigation.
Association between physical activity patterns and sarcopenia in Arab men
Authors: Alkahtani Shaea , Aljuhani Osama , Alhussain Maha , Habib Syed Shahid
Published: April 2020

Objective

In this study, we aimed to examine the association between physical activity patterns and sarcopenia in Arab men.

Methods

This cross-sectional study included 363 men (47.7 ± 15.4 years). We analyzed appendicular lean mass (ALM), handgrip strength test, and physical activity levels. ALM divided by height (meters) squared was calculated (ALM/Ht 2 ), and participants with −1 and −2 standard deviations below the sex-specific mean for Saudi young adults were considered to have sarcopenia class I and class II, respectively. Independent t-tests, analysis of variance, and Mann–Whitney U tests were performed to determine mean and median differences.

Results

We observed a significant difference between participants with and without sarcopenia in moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA); the correlation between ALM/H2 and MVPA was borderline significant. With a 1-hour/week increase in MVPA, ALM/Ht 2 increased by 0.30 kg/m2. Total and ALM, handgrip strength, and MVPA were significantly lower in participants age >60 years; fat mass and waist circumference were unchanged as compared with middle-aged participants.

Conclusions

We identified an association between time spent in recreational MVPA and lean muscle mass among Arab men. Future studies should examine the role of MVPA training programs on muscle mass and strength in older men.
Affective experiences to chords are modulated by mode, meter, tempo, and subjective entrainment
Authors: Labbé Carolina , Trost Wiebke , Grandjean Didier
Published: April 2020

Mode and tempo are known to influence affective experiences during music listening. While mode (major/minor) is associated with emotional valence (positive/negative), tempo (slow/fast) is associated with emotional arousal (calm/excited). Heart rate (HR) and respiration rate (RR) are also thought to adapt (entrain) to the tempo, leading to emotion elicitation via afferent feedback mechanisms. Here, we tested the influence of mode, tempo, and entrainment on affective experiences by recording HR, RR, and self-reported subjective entrainment and affect measures while participants ( N = 20) listened to major and minor chords embedded in slow and fast isochronous, metrical, and random sequences. Though there was no effect of tempo on HR or RR, both were faster during major and metrically random chord sequences, respectively. Slower HR positively predicted visceral entrainment (VE) ratings, the extent to which one feels one’s internal rhythms changing, and fast tempo positively predicted motor entrainment (ME) ratings, the extent to which one feels like moving. Compared to minor chords, fast major chord sequences induced more feelings of vitality (positive, high arousal), while minor sequences induced more feelings of unease (negative, high, and low arousal). Both ME and VE positively predicted pleasantness ratings and positive emotions, and negatively predicted negative emotions.