bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study on the Computational Trust and Its Model
Authors: Wang Qingnian , Hong Wenqian , Huang Chuling
Published: April 2020

The application of block chain technology has greatly improved our digital ability in work and daily life. By fostering greater trust, blockchain technology has not only increased productivity, but is sure to reshape the relationship between individuals and businesses, leading us toward a true digital economy. For hundreds of millions of people and tens of billions of smart devices, this could mean hundreds of billions of smart contracts running autonomously and significantly enhancing global synergies. This paper aims to explore the computational trust model to demonstrate how the trust be computationalised. By building a global blockchain infrastructure, we are spreading trust, and computational trust will be a ubiquitous part of our society. As more businesses and individuals join in, more people will benefit from this new technology, and the future of human society will become more inclusive, transparent, and trustworthy.
Research and Application of Server Health State Prediction Model Based on BP Neural Network
Authors: Wu Qianjun , Jin Dan , Chen Yuhang , Wang Xiaolong
Published: April 2020

As the core equipment of the data center, the importance of the operation and maintenance of the server is self-evident. In order to improve the operation and maintenance of data center server, this paper selected the feature quantity using the analysis method of grey correlation and established server operation parameters and health state prediction model using BP neural network algorithm in machine learning. The model can predict server health status and made fault early warning which provide decision support for operation and maintenance. This can reserve the responding time for problems and realize “active” operation and maintenance of data center servers.
Data Aggregation Privacy in WSN
Authors: Yao Jianbo , Yang Chaoqiong
Published: April 2020

When WSN is applied to monitoring, the privacy of monitoring data from monitoring objects becomes an important issue for the successful application of WSN, which requires effective privacy protection for data aggregation. CPDA (Cluster-based Private Data Aggregation) has a problem that energy costs become higher with increase of nodes within a cluster. In this paper, UCPDA (Upgrade Cluster-based Private Data Aggregation) is established to perform data aggregation while preserving data privacy. According to required privacy, the sensors in a cluster are partitioned into some groups. Data preprocessing is performed only in the same group. Compared to CPDA, UCPDA has lower energy consumption for required privacy.
Dynamic Facial Expression Recognition Based on ResNet and LSTM
Authors: Guo Hong , Chen Jiayou
Published: April 2020

The face image data collected by ordinary face recognition system is usually static. In real life, to fully capture the state information of human emotion change, we need to collect dynamic face expression change data, which needs to capture a video sequence to reflect the process of emotion change. In this paper, we combine ResNet residual neural network and long-term memory network (LSTM) to extract features from video sequences and then recognize them. In the residual neural network, the residual element has a very good effect on the training and optimization process of deep CNN model, and shortens the convergence time of the model. Combined with the LSTM network, the captured dynamic sequence data is incorporated into the CNN model. Compared with the static single frame expression recognition system, the research of dynamic expression recognition has more application value.
Research on Evaluation Factors of Intelligent Level of Dam Safety Monitoring System
Authors: Lu Qiling , Wang Xue , Yu Keping
Published: April 2020

With the continuous improvement of intelligence level, intelligent evaluation of a safety monitoring system has become the key to system evaluation. In order to improve the pertinence of evaluation, according to the application environment and demand of dam safety monitoring, this paper makes an in-depth study on the evaluation factors of the intelligent level of dam safety monitoring system from the system occurrence environment, system composition, network communications, system function and performance, channel protection and power control, remote maintenance, system parameters, running log, statistical analysis, rule discovery, hidden trouble diagnosis, maintenance advice, method and expert recommendation algorithm, intelligent query and human-computer interaction, etc., providing a beneficial reference for the evaluation of improving the intelligent level of dam safety monitoring system.
A Convolutional Neural Network-based Prediction Mechanism for Sewage Treatment
Authors: Zeng Wenru , Guo Zhiwei , Wang Jianhui , Shen Yu , Gao Xu
Published: April 2020

Aiming at the extraordinary dependency on manual experience during the process of sewage treatment, it is required to explore intelligent prediction mechanism for sewage quality. Due to the fact that convolutional neural network (CNN) has some unique advantages for fast prediction, this paper proposes a convolutional neural network-based prediction mechanism for sewage treatment (CPST). It contains two mains parts respectively named learning process and training process. A group of experiments are managed to evaluate the efficiency of the proposed CPST, and the results demonstrate that CPST obtain the lower prediction error compared with baselines.
Research on “Face Swiping” Medical Service Diffusion from the Perspective of Game Theory
Authors: Zhu Keyu , Cheng Peiling , Sun Qirui , Zhang Shanshan , Wang Xiaojia
Published: April 2020

“Face swiping” medical service (FSMS) is one of the important breakthroughs in the field of medical care. FSMS is at a growing stage, and whether it can develop stably in the traditional medical mode has not been well studied at present. This paper establishes an evolutionary game model to analyze the behaviors of the two main participants of FSMS (the hospitals and the patients); And it finds out the factors that affect the choice behavior of the two main participants to analyze different strategies that participants choose how influence the development of FSMS in the future. Furthermore, the profit matrix is analyzed by establishing a replicator dynamic system, and the effectiveness of the model is verified by simulation using Python3.7 software.
Multi - mechanism Coalescence Design and Matrix Expression of Logic Action Sequences of the Over-turn Nursing Robot Part II: Gesture-state in Sets and Matrix
Authors: Gu Lizhi , Gao Shanping , Gu Chunyang , Huang Yuantang , Xu Feiyue , Zhong Xiang , Chen Kai , Song Jinling
Published: April 2020

As is expressed in Part I, Functions and coalescence design of the over-turn nursing robot, the performance and requirements have been put forward with systematic design of several mechanisms. Here, in order to control and function well the over-turn nursing robot, the three-dimensional and five-dimensional Euclidean space with the real number were adopted in terms of sets for gesture of the bedridden person and the corresponding state of the robot, respectively. The matrix method was employed to define and describe the gestures-robot performance and its transition path. The gesture-state sequence matrix not only accurately and clearly expressed the gesture series, state sequence and their corresponding relations, but also laid a theoretical and technical foundation for the path planning from the current gesture to the target one. The control and operation of 7 states and 5 gestures were done to realize the automation and intelligent over-turning safely, comfortably and conveniently.
Research on Autonomous Vehicle Storage and Retrieval System Cargo Location Optimization in E-commerce Automated Warehouse
Authors: Wang Haoxiang , Ji Shouwen , Su Gang
Published: April 2020

Cargo allocation optimization is important to improve the efficiency of e-commerce automated warehouse’s autonomous vehicle storage and retrieval system (AVS/RS) operations. Considering the electrical business logistics characteristic of small batch, batches, variety characteristics, this paper aiming at maximizing the highest efficiency and shelf stability for warehousing efficiency, we established an initial cargo location model, designed an adaptive multi-objective genetic algorithm. MATLAB software programming was used to implement the model solution, and an example verification was performed with an automation warehouse named Jing-dong in China. The comparison between the initial cargo location model and the random storage strategy shows that the model can significantly improve the overall warehousing efficiency and shelf stability of AVS/RS.
Cold-Chain Logistics Distribution Routing Optimization Based on PSO
Authors: Hu Lishuan , Xiang Caihong , Qi Chengming
Published: April 2020

Recently, cold chain which aims to keep agricultural product fresh before arrive to the designated customers has been greatly developed. The distribution routing optimization problem of cold chain has been an attractive research hotspot. In this paper, we introduce the basic PSO method and it’s advantaged about good robustness, global convergence, and intelligent search. Then, we put forward a method for distribution path optimization based on PSO. Taking an example, the evaluation results show that our proposed method can achieve the optimal solution effectively.
Electrical Modification and Experimental Study of Combine Harvester Reaping Unit
Authors: Wang Pengfei , Tian Muhao , Wang Haili , Jiang Wenjun , Cao Qixin
Published: April 2020

In order to deal with the gradual shortage of labour force in the aging society, it is necessary to make intelligent and unmanned improvements to mechanical equipment such as combine harvesters for repetitive daily work. Based on a special combine harvester, the electrical modification for its reaping unit is designed, which includes the selection of motor and reducer, the 3D design and finite element analysis for two kinds of working conditions. Moreover, the electrical driver method is proposed, which can automatic adjustment harvest speed based on the walking speed of vehicle. Finally, some filed tests of wheat harvesting verified the correctness for electric refit. The electrical modification of reaping unit provides theoretical basis and experimental data for the robotics research of whole combine harvester.
Theoretical Research on the Uniformity of Planetary Side Lapping Trajectory
Authors: Wu Yaoyu
Published: April 2020

The reduction to absurdity is adopted to analyze equation of planetary double-side lapping motion built by kinematics, and study the important parameter in the process of lapping-I (the ratio of grinding disc and the inner pin ring in rotary speed) satisfies the condition of uniformity of lapping trajectory of a point in workpiece relative to surface of grinding disc. The results show the ratio I that meet uniformity of lapping trajectory is a function of time t. On the other hand, for a given planetary double-side lapping machine, the I of constant ratio (rational or irrational) that satisfies uniformity of lappingtrajectory does not exist unless it continues to change over the time. This research has laid a theoretical foundation for the further studying in uniformity of lapping trajectory, and also provided a new idea and method for the analysis of relative velocity between workpiece and grinding wheel, the wear uniformity of grinding wheel, and the study of workpiece surface quality.
Study on Flux-Pinned Load Characteristics of High Temperature Superconducting Maglev Vehicle
Authors: Wu Haoran , Mao Rancheng , Yuan Yuhang
Published: April 2020

With the distinctive pinned effects, the high temperature superconducting magnetic levitation vehicle is characterized by its high-performance self-stability, strong anti-interference ability and non-contact features, which are worthy of being studied in detail. In this paper, the high temperature superconducting maglev test platform in Southwest Jiaotong University was utilized to study the flux-pinned force. The calibration of vertical and lateral load characteristic curve under corresponding quasi-static conditions were conducted firstly, then it was transformed through polynomial fitting. In addition, the variation law of flux-pinned force under straight and curved tracks at different running speeds of maglev vehicle was attained based on the experiment.
A New Direct 9-line Geometric Error Measurement Method for CNC Machine Tools
Authors: Liu Huanlao , Rasheed Muzammil , Su Miaojing , Liu Can , Li Xiaoli
Published: April 2020

The existing line measurement methods are analyzed. In the process of obtaining the existing error parameters, the assumption conditions in the model developing are adopted, which makes the insufficient adaptability of the model and unreliable measurement results. A method for directly obtaining the error values of the machine tools have suggested by using a high-precision laser interferometer. The 9 lines at different places in the working space of the machine tool is proposed. A three-axes CNC vertical machining center was measured, which proved that the measurement process is easy to operate and the operation is relatively simple, which can be applied to actual industrial field measurement. This method is further popularized and can be used to verify other line measurement methods and check the error models, which has great practical application value.
Multi-scale Calibration Board Based Accurate Calibration of a Scanning Electron Microscope
Authors: Hua Yiran , Zhang Xianmin , Li Hai , Yang Zhuobo
Published: April 2020

We present a new calibration method based on multi-scale calibration board for scanning electronic microscopy (SEM) at low magnifications. The implementation of the calibration mainly depends on automatic center-point features detection from the calibration board image instead of corner detection. The center-point feature is the centroid of each squares, which is obtained via morphological processing. We use the calibration model consisting of projective model and static distortion model. It is proved the point detection proposed in this paper is more accurate, efficient and robust, compared with corner point detection in the traditional calibration process. Then, reprojection error is used to evaluate the accuracy of the calibration results. At last, the method is efficient and reliable with accuracy, which is testified by experiment.
Design, prototyping, and experiment of the ocean current power generation system using Bach Savoniusrotor
Authors: Yusiran  , Erwin  , Lazuardi
Published: April 2020

Design, prototyping, and experiment of ocean current power generation system have been carried out using the Bach Savonius rotor. The introduced ocean current power generation prototype is validated on real measurement obtained in the Rupat Strait, Indonesia. In this research, the influence of the velocity of ocean currents, the number of turbine blades, and the blade arc angle of the generator output power are studied. The results showed that the turbine output power is strongly influenced by the velocity of ocean currents where the velocity values of ocean currents varied in the range 0,63-1,98 m/sec. The maximum electrical power of the turbine occurs at a current velocity of 1,98 m/sec of 26,88 Watts. The number of turbine blades has a significant effect on turbine output power. The turbine reaches maximum power is found in the rotor with a number of 3 blades with a power coefficient of 0,1176 on the tip speed ratio of 0,359. The blade arc angle is varied at angles of 90°, 135° and 165°. The blade arc angle 135° gives the best performance with a power coefficient of 0,102 on the tip speed ratio of 0,298.
The experimental study of identification trigger components in ash deposits at the boiler pipe of the electric steam power plant in Nagan Raya, Aceh province
Authors: Syah A F , Gani A , Khairil
Published: April 2020

Coal energy is used as the greatest main source of power plant in this day and age. The consequence of the coal energy exertion is the ash deposits are cumulated in the used boiler. In this experiment, the fly ash and ash deposit are analyzed by using SEM/EDX (scanning electron microscope/energy dispersive x-ray) to obtain the tendency of the ash deposits with a base to acid ratio. the sample of ash deposit was selected at three layers of observation to discover the slagging index of the combustion process. The result of the study indicates that the tendency of the ash deposits is 0.959736 and the slagging index on three layers observation are 0.4987, 0.264183, and 0.140248. The result of the slagging index on three layers observation is categorized as low. The trigger compound of cumulation is K2O which is found more in the ash deposits around the pipe and constitutes in the lowest melting point compounds as compared to the other compounds contained in the slagging ash.
Properties of nanocrystalline cellulose from pineapple crown leaf waste
Authors: Fitriani  , Aprilia N A Sri , Arahman N
Published: April 2020

Nanocrystalline cellulose was extracted from pineapple crown leaf as agricultural waste. Nanocrystalline cellulose was successfully extracted using chemical treatments followed by acid hydrolysis using sulfuric acid. Hydrolysis of pineapple crown leaf was carried out by using different hydrolysis time while maintaining acid concentration and temperature. The properties of nanocrystalline cellulose were obtained such % yield, moisture content, crystallinity index (CrI) and functional group present were studied. The yield shown a comparable result regardless of different reaction time of hydrolysis. While Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) showed the progressive removal of non-cellulose content and showed the cellulose molecular structure remains unchanged with the reaction time. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis revealed that the crystallinity increased linearly with increasing hydrolysis time. The result showed potential of pineapple crown leaf to be used in nanocrystalline cellulose synthesis process and optimum hydrolysis time was determined based on the properties of nanocrystalline cellulose.
SCOR Model for a Dual-Channel Supply Chain using Drop Shipping to Reduce Overstock in Small- and Medium-Sized Retail Enterprises
Authors: Francia-Arias G , Marín-Vílchez J , Macassi-Jauregui I , Raymundo-Ibañez C , Dominguez F
Published: April 2020

Sales are central to retail companies. One of the main problems for these companies is when products are sold later than expected, causing overstock due to lower inventory turnover, which increases inventory levels. Therefore, for many retailers, it is important to solve this problem. This is mostly applicable to companies engaged in sales; however, if we take into account the main supplier and the way they act within the supply chain, we must also consider an additional approach. Since online sales are a major innovation brought about by the new digital era, it is standard for sales strategies to focus on this new requirement of customers. In this way, the main supplier takes a leap forward on Internet sales, creating another sales channel. This is when companies under the supply chain start losing sales. According to the above, a dual supply chain model was suggested using the SCOR model and drop shipping. After the improvement proposal was implemented, the company reported a reduction of approximately S/13,000 when comparing the first quarter of 2018 to that of 2019.
The Effect of Stray Current from Sacrificial Anode Cathodic Protection (SACP) System on the Adjacent Unprotected Reinforcing Steel
Authors: Fonna S , Kurniawan R , Israr  , Fachri R , Huzni S
Published: April 2020

Concrete protects reinforcing steel from corrosion, but the steel may be corroded if exposed to coastal environment. Cathodic protection is a popular method to protect steel structures from corrosion. Previous researchers have conducted studies on sacrificial anode cathodic protection (SACP). However, the effect of stray current on the unprotected reinforcing steel in concrete was not reported. This study aims to analyze the effect of the stray current phenomenon on reinforcing steel which are not protected by SACP. Three types of specimens were used in the study: (1) unconnected anode-cathode, (2) connected anode-cathode, and (3) partially connected anode-cathode. The specimens were treated with 30 weeks of wet-dry cycle. Half-cell potential technique was used to measure corrosion potential. The results show that the first specimen had an average potential value of -505.44 mV, meanwhile the second specimen had average potential value -883.66 mV. According to ASTM C876 criteria, the first specimen is categorized into high corrosion risk. While, the second specimen was protected from corrosion based on NACE standard. However, the result on the third specimen shows that only the first reinforcing steel was protected from corrosion, while the other steels were categorized as severe corrosion risk level. The result on third specimen indicates that the stray current produced by SACP system could cause negative effect on the reinforcing steel by increasing susceptibility to corrosion, instead of protecting them.
Layout Lean model of production management based on change management to improve efficiency in the production of packaging in auto parts sector SMEs
Authors: Mancilla-Escobar J , Maccasi-Jaurequi I , Raymundo-Ibañez C , Perez M
Published: April 2020

This investigation proposes a lean model of production management for a small and micro enterprise (SME) dealing in packaging production in the auto parts sector, with the purpose of increasing efficiency in its production line. To this end, this model integrates study method tools and SMED, seeking to reduce waiting times and unnecessary operations, which have been identified as causing the problem on the basis of an initial diagnosis of the situation. Furthermore, to support and guarantee success in implementing these tools, John Kotter’s Change Model is used. After two months of implementation, the results showed a 50% reduction in setup operation time and a 32% decrease in filing operation time, which are bottlenecks in the production process. Thus, with the new indicators, the line efficiency increased by 7% from the initial situation, thus showing improvement.
LEAN maintenance model based on change management allowing the reduction of delays in the production line of textile SMEs in Peru
Authors: Arrascue-Hernandez G , Cabrera-Brusil J , Chavez-Soriano P , Raymundo-Ibañez C , Perez M
Published: April 2020

This article examines the problem of production line delays in a textile small- and medium-sized enterprise (SME) that produces polyester fibre from recycled bottles, based on orders. Factors that have resulted in production line delays include prolonged unscheduled maintenance time, and preparations and adjustments prior to operating the equipment. To address the problem, a model was developed applying lean manufacturing tools through change management, with the aim of increasing equipment availability and useful life. To validate the model, a pilot was developed to determine how the increase in equipment availability helps reduce delays in the production line, which eventually improves completion of customer orders.
Lean Manufacturing Production Management Model focused on Worker Empowerment aimed at increasing Production Efficiency in the textile sector
Authors: Sosa-Perez V , Palomino-Moya J , Leon-Chavarri C , Raymundo-Ibañez C , Dominguez F
Published: April 2020

For companies operating within the garment manufacturing industry, having frequent downtimes in their production flows is an extremely common issue. In this context, a balanced production line is required to prevent high waiting times due to limited productive capacity. A well-balanced assembly line allows products to be produced in an optimum time while using less resources, such as machines, materials, or labour, since the right number of products is produced with the exact amount of resources, thus generating savings in production costs. This paper seeks to foster optimum resource allocation through the line balancing tool. Finally, to define a work methodology, best practices were selected, and a procedures manual was developed focusing on Standardization. Both tools were implemented after implementing changes to the company culture by means of the Employee Empowerment tool. As a result of this implementation, workers acquired greater accountability and control over the resources, methods, and equipment of their work areas. After the proposed improvements had been deployed, the company reported an increase of over 20% in production line quality, performance, and efficiency.
Properties of blended cement paste with diatomite from Aceh Province Indonesia
Authors: Hasan M , Saidi T
Published: April 2020

This paper presents the properties of blended cement paste, i.e. water demand, setting time, flow, flexural strength and compressive strength with diatomite from Aceh Besar District, Aceh Province, Indonesia. Diatomite was calcined at the temperature of 500 °C for 4 hours, ground and sieved with sieve #200. The diatomite content used in this study was 0%, 10%, 20% and 30% of blended cement weight. The diatomite powder, cement, and water were mixed in a mixer to produce blended cement paste. EN and ASTM Standards were used for the test procedures. Water demand for normal consistency, setting time and flow was tested on freshly blended cement paste. Flexural and compression tests were performed on the 40 mm × 40 mm × 160 mm prism and 50 mm size cube specimens at the specimen age of 28 days. The test results show that the water demand increases with increasing the diatomite content. Initial setting time, flow and flexural strength decrease with increasing the diatomite contents. The use of 10 % and 20 % diatomite does not significantly alter the compressive strength.
Endophytic Bacteria isolated from the leaf of Langusei (Ficus minahassae Tesym. & De Vr.) and their antibacterial activities
Authors: Tallei T E , Linelejan Y T , Umboh S D , Adam A A , Muslem  , Idroes R
Published: April 2020

Endophytic bacteria colonizing the internal tissues of plants are being studied for its potential beneficial properties including antibacterial activity. The aims of this study were to identify the endophytic bacteria residing in the leaf of Ficus minahassae, a native plant of North Sulawesi, as well as their antibacterial activities against laboratory-adapted reference bacterial strains, Staphylococcus aureus, and Escherichia coli. The isolate identification was conducted using the 16S rRNA gene marker and the antibacterial activity test was done using a well diffusion method. A yellow-pigmented (designated as YL1) and a beige-pigmented (designated as YL2) bacteria were isolated from the internal tissue of langusei. Using the BLAST search, the isolate YL1 had a 100% identity with Brachybacterium muris, while YL2 has 99% identity with Pseudacidovorax intermedius. Ez-Taxon database confirmed that YL1 was B. muris with 99.81% similarity, while YL2 was P. intermedius with 99.80% similarity. Isolate YL2 was able to inhibit the growth of S. aureus but not E. coli. Isolate YL1 did not inhibit both reference bacteria. This study represents the first investigation of endophytic bacteria isolated from langusei leaf and their antibacterial activity.
Fabrication of Activated Charcoal from Coconut Shell Combined with Coal Fly Ash from PLTU Nagan Raya for Adsorption of Methylene Blue
Authors: Mariana  , Mulana F , Djuned Fauzi M , Fadli M , Meilian M
Published: April 2020

Coconut shell is one of the abundant agricultural solid wastes in Aceh Province. Meanwhile, a solid waste of coal fly ash is a by-product from PLTU Nagan Raya. Both coconut shell and coal fly ash have a great potential to be utilized as adsorbent. The aim of study is to prepare and characterize the adsorbent made from combination of coconut shell activated charcoal and coal fly ash. The prepared adsorbent was characterized using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) to study the morphological structure, Fourier Transform Infra-Red Spectrophotometer (FTIR) to detect the functional group and X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) to determine the crystalline structure. Performance of adsorbent was carried out by adsorption process of methylene blue solution on adsorbent. The characterization results showed that all four types of the prepared adsorbents met the requirements of water content quality and iodine adsorption according to SNI 06-3730-1995 concerning to activated charcoal. It was obtained that adsorbent with the best performance was coconut shell activated charcoal (without addition coal fly ash) having the adsorption capacity to methylene blue of 45.36 mg/g on adsorption contact time of 140 minutes.
Production Of 5-Hydroxylimethylfurfural From Starch of Durian Seed (Durio zibhetinus) Through Dehydration Reaction Using Solvent-Based Choline Chloride: Glycerol
Authors: Manurung R , Zulkarnain I , Siregar A G
Published: April 2020

The energy demand is increasing and the production of fossil fuel is decreasing, which is a challenge for humans to produce eco-friendly renewable energy resources. Biomass is the raw materials of renewable energy. One of the plentiful biomass in Indonesia is the durian seed (Duriozibethinus). Durian production in Indonesia in 2014 reached 859.12 tons, where the weight of durian seeds 20-25% of total fruit weight. Durian seeds have a high content of starch which is 50.40%. 5-HMF (Hydroxymethylfurfural) is one of the most representative monomers of material based on biomass. 5-HMF can be synthesized from carbohydrates, in this case, durian seed is going through two stages of chemical reactions, those are hydrolysis and dehydration reaction. DES (Deep Eutectic Solvents) is a sub-class of IL (Ionic Liquids) that can be used as co-solvents in 5-HMF synthetic from durian seeds. This study applies DES-based Choline Chloride: Glycerol. The variables in this study are sulfuric acid concentration used in hydrolysis reactions and glucose mass ratio: DES, reaction time, glucose concentration in dehydration reactions. The reaction conditions with the highest yield were 61.93% with a glucose mass ratio: DES of 1: 5 and a reaction temperature of 80°C.
Photocatalytic Degradation of Organic Waste in Visible light using TiO2 Nanotubes Array
Authors: Kustiningsih Indar , Saripudin Cecep , Suwansih Siti , Sari Denni Kartika , Jayanudin  , Slamet
Published: April 2020

Photocatalytic degradation of organic waste using TiO2 nanotubes array has been investigated. The phenol was used as organic waste in this research. The Titania nanotubes were obtained by anodization method with 98% ethylene glycol and 0.5%wt NH4F as electrolyte solution at 50 V for 2 hours. The prepared catalysts were characterized by different techniques such as electron microscopy (SEM), X-Ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and UV-vis reflectance spectroscopy (UV-DRS). The effect of pH and initial concentration of phenol has been evaluated. The results showed that the best pH for degradation phenol was obtained at pH 5. In this condition, the phenol has been reduced from 40 ppm to 6.9 ppm for 180 min.
Distinct impact of order degree on thermoelectric power factor of p-type full-Heusler Mn2VAl compounds
Authors: Li Hezhang , Hayashi Kei , Dong Jinfeng , Li Jing-Feng , Miyazaki Yuzuru
Published: April 2020

Full-Heusler compounds have three crystal structures with a different order degree; the highly ordered L21, partially disordered B2, and completely disordered A2 structures. To reveal the effects of the order degree on thermoelectric (TE) properties of the full-Heusler compounds, Mn2VAl samples with varied L21 and B2 order degrees are prepared by changing preparation conditions, and their Seebeck coefficients and electrical conductivities are measured in a wide temperature range. As the B2 order degree becomes higher, the Seebeck coefficient increases, leading to the increase of the power factor (PF). The maximum PF is 2.84 × 10−4 Wm−1 K−2 at 767 K for the Mn2VAl sample with the highest B2 order degree. This study demonstrates that the TE properties of Mn2VAl can be enhanced by increasing the fraction of the B2 phase. A relation between the Seebeck coefficient and crystal structures is also discussed based on the calculation of the electronic density of states of Mn2VAl with the L21 and B2 structures.
Preparing and catalytic performance of a novel titanosilicate with FER topology
Authors: Yang Boting , Cui Tianxiao , Zhou Yuanyuan , Chen Huanming , Qin Jiahui
Published: April 2020

Ti-PLS-3, a kind of layered titanosilicates of FER topology was developed by hydrothermal synthesis with the help of using pure silica PLS-3 as seed. The Si/Ti ratio of this material can be adjusted in a wide range from 20 − ∞. The structure and active sites of Ti-PLS-3 were detected by various characterization. After mild acid treatment to eliminate the hexa-coordinated extra-framework Ti species, the resulting material turned out to be a more effective catalyst for epoxidation of 1-hexene with H2O2 than reported FER type Ti-containing material Ti-FER.
A system to test 2D optoelectronic devices in high vacuum
Authors: Zhao Qinghua , Carrascoso Felix , Gant Patricia , Wang Tao , Frisenda Riccardo , Castellanos-Gomez Andres
Published: April 2020

The exploration of electronic and optoelectronic properties of two-dimensional (2D) materials has become one of the most attractive line of research since the isolation of graphene. Such ‘all-surface materials’ present a strong sensitivity to environmental conditions and thus characterization of the devices based on these materials usually requires measurement systems operating in high-vacuum. However, conventional optoelectronic probe-station testing systems are are not compatible with high vacuum operation and vacuum-compatible versions are rather expensive. Here, we present a high vacuum system specifically designed to test electronic and optoelectronic devices based on 2D materials. This system can be implemented with low budget and it is mostly based on the assembly of commercially available standard vacuum and optic components. Despite the simplicity of this system we demonstrate full capabilities to characterize optoelectronic devices in a broad range of wavelengths with fast pumping/venting speed and possibility of modulating the device temperature (room temperature to ∼150 °C).
Suspicious for Malignancy Diagnoses on Pleural Effusion Cytology
Authors: Rodriguez Erika F , Pastorello Ricardo G , Morris Paul , Saieg Mauro , Chowsilpa Sayanan , Maleki Zahra
Published: April 2020

Objectives

A definitive diagnosis of malignancy may not be possible in pleural effusions. We report our experience with the diagnosis of suspicious for malignancy (SFM) in pleural effusion.

Methods

A search for pleural effusions diagnosed as SFM (2008-2018) was performed. Patient records and pathology reports were reviewed. Specimens were subdivided into groups depending on volume (<75, 75-400, >400 mL). Diagnoses of malignant pleural effusion (MPE) served as controls.

Results

We identified 90 patients, with a mean age of 60.6 years. Diagnoses included suspicious for involvement by carcinoma/adenocarcinoma in 64.4%, leukemia/lymphoma in 15.6%, melanoma in 2.2%, sarcoma in 3.3%, germ cell tumor in 1.1%, and not otherwise specified in 13.3%. Immunostains were performed in 47.8% and considered inconclusive in 24%. Average sample volume was 419 mL. There was a statistically significant difference between the SFM vs MPE groups for volumes greater than 75 mL (P = .001, χ 2 test), with SFM having increased proportion of volumes  greater than 400 mL, compared with the MPE group. There was no statistically significant difference in mean overall survival when the groups were compared (P = .49).

Conclusions

Samples with low cellularity, scant cell blocks, and inconclusive immunostains may contribute to a suspicious category diagnosis in pleural effusions.
Performance of PEth Compared With Other Alcohol Biomarkers in Subjects Presenting For Occupational and Pre-Employment Medical Examination
Authors: Neumann Jasna , Beck Olof , Helander Anders , Böttcher Michael
Published: April 2020

Aims

To compare the performance of short- and long-term alcohol biomarkers for the evaluation of alcohol drinking in employment-related health controls.

Methods

The 519 blood samples originated from 509 patients (80% men) presenting at occupational health units and medical centers at employment agencies for the evaluation of risky drinking. The laboratory investigation comprised the measurement of phosphatidylethanol (PEth 16:0/18:1), carbohydrate-deficient transferrin (CDT; % disialotransferrin), gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT), mean corpuscular volume (MCV), ethanol and ethyl glucuronide (EtG).

Results

Many samples tested positive for acute (57%) and chronic (69%) alcohol biomarkers. PEth was the single most positive biomarker (64%; cut-off 0.05 μmol/l or 35 μg/l) and the only positive chronic biomarker in 100 cases. The highest PEth concentrations were seen in samples positive for all chronic biomarkers, followed by those also being CDT positive (cut-off 2.0%). All 126 CDT-positive samples were positive for PEth using the lower reporting limit (≥0.05 μmol/l) and for 114 cases (90%) also using the higher limit (≥0.30 μmol/l or 210 μg/l). In the CDT-positive cases, the PEth median concentration was 1.71 μmol/l, compared with 0.45 μmol/l for the CDT-negative cases (P < 0.0001). PEth and CDT values were correlated significantly (r = 0.63, P < 0.0001). Among the EtG-positive cases (≥1.0 ng/ml), 95% were also PEth positive, and all ethanol-positive cases (≥0.10 g/l) were also PEth positive.

Conclusions

For optimal detection of drinking habits, using a combination of short- and long-term alcohol biomarkers provided best information. PEth was the single most positive alcohol biomarker, whereas GGT and MCV offered little additional value over PEth and CDT.
Comparative genetic and epigenetic diversity in pairs of sympatric, closely related plants with contrasting distribution ranges in south-eastern Iberian mountains
Authors: Medrano Mónica , Alonso Conchita , Bazaga Pilar , López Esmeralda , Herrera Carlos M
Published: April 2020

Genetic diversity defines the evolutionary potential of a species, yet mounting evidence suggests that epigenetic diversity could also contribute to adaptation. Elucidating the complex interplay between genetic and epigenetic variation in wild populations remains a challenge for evolutionary biologists, and the intriguing possibility that epigenetic diversity could compensate for the loss of genetic diversity is one aspect that remains basically unexplored in wild plants. This hypothesis is addressed in this paper by comparing the extent and patterns of genetic and epigenetic diversity of phylogenetically closely related but ecologically disparate species. Seven pairs of congeneric species from Cazorla mountains in south-eastern Spain were studied, each pair consisting of one endemic, restricted-range species associated to stressful environments, and one widespread species occupying more favourable habitats. The prediction was tested that endemic species should have lower genetic diversity due to population fragmentation, and higher epigenetic diversity induced by environmental stress, than their widespread congeners. Genetic (DNA sequence variants) and epigenetic (DNA cytosine methylation variants) diversities and their possible co-variation were assessed in three populations of each focal species using amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) and methylation-sensitive AFLP (MSAP). All species and populations exhibited moderate to high levels of genetic polymorphism irrespective of their ecological characteristics. Epigenetic diversity was greater than genetic diversity in all cases. Only in endemic species were the two variables positively related, but the difference between epigenetic and genetic diversity was greater at populations with low genetic polymorphism. Results revealed that the relationship between genetic and epigenetic diversity can be more complex than envisaged by the simple hypothesis addressed in this study, and highlight the need of additional research on the actual role of epigenetic variation as a source of phenotypic diversity before a realistic understanding of the evolutionary relevance of epigenetic phenomena in plant adaptation can be achieved.
Prediction of drug adverse events using deep learning in pharmaceutical discovery
Authors: Lee Chun Yen , Chen Yi-Ping Phoebe
Published: April 2020

Traditional machine learning methods used to detect the side effects of drugs pose significant challenges as feature engineering processes are labor-intensive, expert-dependent, time-consuming and cost-ineffective. Moreover, these methods only focus on detecting the association between drugs and their side effects or classifying drug–drug interaction. Motivated by technological advancements and the availability of big data, we provide a review on the detection and classification of side effects using deep learning approaches. It is shown that the effective integration of heterogeneous, multidimensional drug data sources, together with the innovative deployment of deep learning approaches, helps reduce or prevent the occurrence of adverse drug reactions (ADRs). Deep learning approaches can also be exploited to find replacements for drugs which have side effects or help to diversify the utilization of drugs through drug repurposing.
Classification via local manifold approximation
Authors: Li Didong , Dunson David B
Published: April 2020

Classifiers label data as belonging to one of a set of groups based on input features. It is challenging to achieve accurate classification when the feature distributions in the different classes are complex, with nonlinear, overlapping and intersecting supports. This is particularly true when training data are limited. To address this problem, we propose a new type of classifier based on obtaining a local approximation to the support of the data within each class in a neighbourhood of the feature to be classified, and assigning the feature to the class having the closest support. This general algorithm is referred to as local manifold approximation classification. As a simple and theoretically supported special case, which is shown to have excellent performance across a broad variety of examples, we use spheres for local approximation, obtaining a spherical approximation classifier.
The Social Work Regulator and Professional Identity: A Narrative of Lord and Bondsman
Authors: Simpson Murray , Daly Maura , Smith Mark
Published: April 2020

Since the early 2000s, in a development since mirrored throughout much of the Anglophone world, social work across UK jurisdictions has been subject to external regulation. Whilst a key justification for regulation was to enhance professional identity, there is little evidence that it has done so. Indeed, a growing literature points out conflictual and unproductive relationships between the social work profession and its regulators, within which a marked power imbalance in favour of the regulator is apparent. In this article, we illustrate the nature of this imbalance theoretically by drawing upon the classic philosophical narrative, developed by Georg Willhelm Friedrich Hegel (1770–1831), of the ‘lord and bondsman’. We seek to demonstrate the utility of the Hegelian narrative using data from a study into the views of social workers on how they understand their professional identities, focusing specifically on those aspects of the study that address the place of regulation in this process. Whilst exposing some fundamental problems in the regulatory relationship, the lord and bondsman narrative may also offer some possibility of a way forward through identifying these dialectics as a step towards a more self-conscious professional maturity.
The NLRP3 inflammasome in progressive multiple sclerosis
Authors: Kadowaki Atsushi , Quintana Francisco J
Published: April 2020

This scientific commentary refers to ‘NLRP3 inflammasome as prognostic factor and therapeutic target in primary progressive multiple sclerosis patients’, by Malhotra et al. (doi:10.1093/brain/awaa084).
Cancer Risk Stratification of Anal Intraepithelial Neoplasia in Human Immunodeficiency Virus–Positive Men by Validated Methylation Markers Associated With Progression to Cancer
Authors: van der Zee Ramon P , Richel Olivier , van Noesel Carel J M , Ciocănea-Teodorescu Iuliana , van Splunter Annina P , ter Braak Timo J , Nathan Mayura , Cuming Tamzin , Sheaff Michael , Kreuter Alexander , Meijer Chris J L M , Quint Wim G V , de Vries Henry J C , Prins Jan M , Steenbergen Renske D M
Published: April 2020

Background

High-grade anal intraepithelial neoplasia (HGAIN; AIN2–3) is highly prevalent in HIV+ men, but only a minority of these lesions progress towards cancer. Currently, cancer progression risk cannot be established; therefore, no consensus exists on whether HGAIN should be treated. This study aimed to validate previously identified host cell DNA methylation markers for detection and cancer risk stratification of HGAIN.

Methods

A large independent cross-sectional series of 345 anal cancer, AIN3, AIN2, AIN1, and normal control biopsies of HIV+ men was tested for DNA methylation of 6 genes using quantitative methylation-specific PCR. We determined accuracy for detection of AIN3 and cancer (AIN3+) by univariable and multivariable logistic regression analysis, followed by leave-one-out cross-validation. Methylation levels were assessed in a series of 10 anal cancer cases with preceding HGAIN at similar anatomic locations, and compared with the cross-sectional series.

Results

Methylation levels of all genes increased with increasing severity of disease (P < .05). HGAIN revealed a heterogeneous methylation pattern, with a subset resembling cancer. ZNF582 showed highest accuracy (AUC = 0.88) for AIN3+ detection, slightly improved by addition of ASCL1 and SST (AUC = 0.89), forming a marker panel. In the longitudinal series, HGAIN preceding cancer displayed high methylation levels similar to cancers.

Conclusions

We validated the accuracy of 5 methylation markers for the detection of anal (pre-) cancer. High methylation levels in HGAIN were associated with progression to cancer. These markers provide a promising tool to identify HGAIN in need of treatment, preventing overtreatment of HGAIN with a low cancer progression risk.
Lies and Irony Understanding in Deaf and Hearing Adolescents
Authors: González-Cuenca Antonia , Linero María José
Published: April 2020

Lies and irony are paradigmatic examples of nonliteral communication; many deaf children and even adults have difficulty in understanding them. The present study assessed the understanding of lies and irony in 96 adolescents living in Spain in urban settings (58 deaf participants, 38 hearing participants; 10–19 years old). We investigated whether deaf and hearing participants differ in their performance, and the effects of age, theory of mind (ToM), and language on the understanding of these nonliteral meanings in deaf participants. The results show that deaf participants do not find it difficult to detect nonliteral statements, but they experience difficulty in attributing the real motivation to the speaker. ToM and language explained performance in the understanding of nonliteral communication in the deaf group. The results suggest the need to focus on promoting the ability to attribute real motivations to speakers. We propose an assessment sequence that differs from those used in other studies. In the proposed sequence, ToM skills would be combined with other skills that influence the understanding of lies and irony and would be sequenced according to the observed performance in deaf adolescents.