bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Orthogonal method for solving maximum correntropy‐based power system state estimation
Authors: Freitas Victor , Costa Antonio Simões , Miranda Vladimiro
Published: February 2020

This study introduces a robust orthogonal implementation for a new class of information theory‐based state estimation algorithms that rely on the maximum correntropy criterion (MCC). They are attractive due to their capability to suppress bad data. In practice, applying the MCC concept amounts to solving a matrix equation similar to the weighted least‐squares normal equation, with difference that measurement weights change as a function of iteratively adjusted observation window widths. Since widely distinct measurement weights are a source of numerical ill‐conditioning, the proposed orthogonal implementation is beneficial to impart numerical robustness to the MCC solution. Furthermore, the row‐processing nature of the proposed solver greatly facilitates bad data removal as soon as outliers are identified by the MCC algorithm. Another desirable feature of the orthogonal MCC estimator is that it avoids the need of post‐processing stages for bad data treatment. The performance of the proposed scheme is assessed through tests conducted on the IEEE 14‐bus, 30‐bus, 57‐bus and 118‐bus test systems. Simulation results indicate that the MCC orthogonal implementation exhibits superior bad data suppression capability as compared with conventional methods. It is also advantageous in terms of computational effort, particularly as the number of simultaneous bad data grows.
Submodule capacitance requirement reduction with capacitor voltage ripple suppression in MMC
Authors: Xiao Yuntao , Peng Li
Published: February 2020

In modular multilevel converter (MMC)‐based high‐voltage direct current transmission system, hundreds of submodules (SMs) with large SM capacitance in each arm result in expensive cost and bulky volume. In full‐bridge submodules (FBSMs)‐based MMC (FB‐MMC), a novel capacitor voltage ripple suppression method based on three available variables manipulation is proposed to reduce SM capacitance requirement. In the interaction of these available variables, the dominant fundamental‐frequency and second‐order harmonic fluctuations of SM capacitor voltage can be eliminated under different power factors. Under the proposed method, three‐to‐five times frequency fluctuation components will be reduced as much as possible. By establishing capacitor voltage fluctuation model, the concrete mathematical expressions of the three desired available variables under different power factors can be derived, which are easily implemented to suppress capacitor voltage ripple. Compared with normal operation, SM capacitor voltage ripple can be reduced by 80% with the proposed method when the power factor of 0.9–1 is considered. In other words, SM capacitance requirement can be reduced by 80% under the same constraint of capacitor voltage ripple. Therefore, the cost and volume of SM capacitors can be significantly reduced. Simulation results confirm the feasibility and validity of the proposed method.
Power allocation in MIMO radars based on LPI optimisation and detection performance fulfilment
Authors: Ghoreishian Mohammad Javad , Hosseini Andargoli Seyed Mehdi , Parvari Fatemeh
Published: February 2020

In this study, the issue of power allocation in the statistical multiple‐input–multiple‐output (MIMO) radars is investigated to reduce the probability of interception. In MIMO radars, orthogonal waveforms are commonly used, in which waveforms are orthogonal frequency‐diversity or phase‐coded (PC) waveforms. Therefore, the low probability of intercept (LPI) optimisation problem is considered for different orthogonal signals separately. In the FD case, the LPI optimisation problem based on analysing signal processing applied to the conventional interceptor is formulated as a min–max problem. In the PC case, the problem is formulated as a sum power minimisation problem with non‐convex and non‐linear detection performance constraint. Some relaxations and innovations are applied to simplify the problem and to convert it to a convex‐linear problem. In addition, by analysing the form of the proposed solution, the proposed algorithm is extended based on adaptive thresholding to improve the LPI performance as much as possible. Here, the original problem is solved by a standard log‐barrier algorithm as a benchmark to verify the optimality of the proposed algorithms. Simulation results show that, the proposed algorithms guarantee not only the detection performances, but also the LPI performance is considerably better in comparison with traditional power allocation algorithms.
Antifungal activity of Bacillussp. Gn-A11-18isolated from decomposing solid green household waste in water and soil against Candida albicans and Aspergillus niger
Authors: El Barnossi Azeddin , Moussaid Fatimazahrae , Iraqi Housseini Abdelilah
Published: February 2020

Candida albicans an opportunistic pathogenic fungus causes many infections in humans. WhereasAspergillus nigeris a fungus that can produce ochratoxins, a group of extremely dangerous secondary metabolites that are classified as potentially carcinogenic to humans and also causing deterioration in grapes, strawberries, etc. The purpose of the current study is to isolate, purify, identify and characterize new microorganisms associated with solid green household waste for the control ofC. albicansandA. niger. The antifungal activity of bacterial isolates was carried out in vitro by the agar plug diffusion method, the disk and well diffusion method. The isolate that showed promising activity has been identified by those macroscopic, microscopic and biochemical characteristics. The results obtained in the course of this study showed the isolation of an isolate named Gn-A11-18, which was shown to have significant inhibitory activity with a 42.66% inhibition percentage againstA. nigerand a 44.66 mm inhibition diameter againstC. albicanscompared to the controls. The identification of Gn-A11-18 isolate has shown that this isolate belongs to the genusBacilluswith a similarity toBacillus subtilisandBacillus tequilensis. In the light of the results of this study, we can suggest that the bioactive compound ofBacillussp. Gn-A11-18 could become a biological alternate that could have an important role to fight againstC. albicansandA. niger.
A comparative study of the photocatalytic efficiency of metal oxide/hydroxyapatite nanocomposites in the degradation kinetic of ciprofloxacin in water
Authors: Labrag Jihane , El Bekkali Chaimaa , Es-Saidi Ikrame , Bouyarmane Habiba , Laghzizil Abdelaziz , Khamar Mohamed , Robert Didier
Published: February 2020

The photocatalytic efficiency of the metal oxide-hydroxyapatite photocatalysts prepared by soft chemistry using phosphate rock as calcium and phosphorus precursors has been investigated on the degradation kinetic of ciprofloxacin residues in water under UV-light (HPK125 W Lamp). The nature of metal oxide (TiO2, ZnO, Fe2O3), structure, surface area and pore-size distributions of the catalysts were analyzed by various techniques analyses. Association of nanoscale metal oxide with hydroxyapatite could enhance the sorption properties of the materials and confers them interesting photodegradation properties. The results of the kinetic study revealed that the activities of these photocatalysts were dependent on the oxide surface and the best activity was obtained with TiO2/hydroxyapatite catalyst, which had the largest surface area. The effects of various operational parameters were thoroughly considered in order to achieve highest photodegradation efficiency. A correlation between the nature of associated metal oxide, surface properties, the sorption behavior and the photodegradation capacity of these composites could be establishedd.
Treatment of clay soils with steel slag, in road engineering
Authors: Sebbar Nizar , Lahmili Abdelaziz , Bahi Lahcen , Ouadif Latifa
Published: February 2020

The road construction sector draws large quantities of materials every day to meet the needs of infrastructure networks. The main aim of the link between different regions is to facilitate the transport and connection of these agglomerations. With such a pace, a shortage of these materials is worsening by the day, causing an imbalance in our “ecosystem” on the way. All these factors and many others have raised the alarm among managers in the construction industry. Environmental organizations have since been constantly seeking palliative solutions to this global scourge. In addition, several industries generate a large amount of waste annually, in some cases recoverable while respecting certain technical and environmental criteria. It is in this environmental approach, embracing a philosophy of circular economy that multiple co-products (Slag, Fly Ash, Phosphogypsum, Silica Fume…etc.) have been tested and numerous studies have demonstrated their ability to be used as a substitute for natural resources. In this respect, the following article will focus, through studies conducted in public laboratory, on various mixtures of the "soil-slag" couple to assess their possible use in road engineering. First, an identification of the materials (soil from the Sidi Kacem region and slags from a steel industry) to be adopted in our analysis will be carried out, then we will proceed to Proctor/CBR tests on soil-slag mixtures, defined in advance in order to decide on the possibility of developing them in road engineering and thereby reduce the quantities in contribution of noble materials.
The use of a geographic information system to study geotechnical problems in urban areas
Authors: Azougay Abdellah , Rezqi Halima , Oujidi Mostafa
Published: February 2020

Bad choice of construction site or poor number or local geotechnical study test lead to construction ruin; hence the need to have a geotechnical map for each urban area, which will constitute a reference for urban planners. Urban geotechnics is the study of urban land environments to provide a scientific and technical database for rational urban development and land use planning. The aim of this work is to make an inventory of all potential geotechnical problems in the soil bounded by the urban perimeter of Beni Ensar city. So to characterize the soil many geotechnical tests carried out in the laboratory and in situ are analysed. The results of these geotechnical tests are represented geo-spatially using GIS software. The thematic maps obtained will constitute a reference to the planners and the various actors in this field to adapt development plans and types of buildings to the properties of the supporting soil. They will also allow the civil engineering laboratory to optimize the choice of the study method and the types of tests.
Assessment of the risk of soil erosion using RUSLE method and SWAT model at the M’dez Watershed, Middle Atlas, Morocco
Authors: Boufala M’hamed , El Hmaidf Abdellah , Chadli Khalid , Essahlaoui Ali , El Ouali Abdelhadi , Lahjouj Abdelhakim
Published: February 2020

The preservation of soil resources is a primary global concern and a permanent challenge for all Mediterranean countries. In Morocco, the capacity of dam reservoirs continues to decline from one year to the next due to the rate of siltation, mainly due to the phenomenon of water erosion. Indeed, the origins of this erosion are generally related to land use planning, deforestation, agricultural practices and low vegetation cover. However, it is imperative to quantify soil erosion and its spatial distribution to achieve sustainable land use and governance of this resource. The SWAT hydro-agricultural model and the integrated RUSLE model were used to assess soil losses and characterize the degraded areas of the M’dez watershed, located in the upper Sebou, north of the Middle Atlas, and extend on an area of 3350 km2. The results obtained during this work show that the average soil losses estimated by the two models are consistent. For the SWAT model, the specific degradation of the watershed is estimated at 3.95 t/ha/year, whereas for the RUSLE model, the average loss of the basin is estimated at 2.94 t/ha/year). However, the use of these two models (SWAT and RUSLE), for the assessment and characterization of degraded areas at the level of Moroccan watersheds, has become a much sought-after approach for good soil conservation management.
Improvement of the consideration of seismic risks in Algerian planning and urban development instruments: application to the Boumerdés region (50km east of Algiers/Algeria)
Authors: Kheliouen Mohamed Yacine , Bouder Abdelmadjd
Published: February 2020

The territory of both Algiers and Boumerdés departments was hit in 2003 by a violent earthquake of 6.8 (M) causing considerable human and material losses. In order to establish preventive solutions, the article recommend the seismic risk studies to be considered in national and urban planning instruments, It presents a seismic vulnerability study applied to three (03) cities located in the region that have high populations and challenges Two assessments are presented for each city: the first consists of studying the vulnerability of buildings to the earthquake using a qualitative empirical method called Risk-EU. The second assessment focuses on the unbuilt part of the city through the analysis of evacuation and rescue capacity after the earthquake. This latter is a method used in the seismic micro zoning study of the wilaya of Algiers that was jointly established by 02 Japanese and Algerian study centers. The superposition of the summary vulnerability maps of the two assessments designed using a geographic information system (GIS), shows us the location of the most vulnerable urban areas. Damage of the building is coupled with their degree of isolation that serves for evacuation and rescue in the case of an earthquake. The results of cumulative vulnerability (built and urban system) at the scale of the region studied, then at each city and districts, are shown graphically and statistically.
Formulation and Investigation Antioxidant of O/W Cream Containing Euphorbia hirta L. Herb Extract
Authors: Gani Fadli A. , Isnaini Nadia , Maryam Siti
Published: February 2020

The herb extract of Euphorbia hirta L. have been reported as sources of inexpensive antioxidant that can be used as potential cosmetic product. Therefore, the aims of this study were to formulate E. hirta L. extract loaded cream and to assess the antioxidant activity of loaded cream. First, E. hirta L. was prepared with maceration process using water as solvent (1:5). Afterwards, the obtained extract was subjected to a lyophilisation process. The extract was tasted for antioxidant activity using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) for suitable concentration of the extract incorporated into the cream, which was 10%w/w. The cream was formulated as o/w emulsion and stearic acid was selected as an emulsifier. The extract loaded cream was tested pH, viscosity, and antioxidant. The freshly prepared extract loaded cream was dark green and no phase separation was observed after centrifugation at 3,000 rpm for 30 min. They had acidic pH (4.4-5.1), considered acceptable for skin application, especially in skin face. The DPPH measurement revealed that the formulation had potential antioxidant activity with %SCV more than 80% at 100 µg/mL. In conclusion, topical o/w cream containing extract was successfully prepared with substantial antioxidant activity and was displayed a potential use in cosmetic formulations, especially antiaging products.
Blood hematology profile at postpartum in Ettawa grade does fed with different fatty acid flushing diets during the late gestation period and different litter sizes
Authors: Nugroho Prasetyo , Wiryawan Komang G. , Manalu Wasmen , Astuti Dewi A.
Published: February 2020

Physiological stress occurs in does immediately after parturition. This study evaluated the blood hematology profile at postpartum in Ettawa grade does fed with different fatty acid flushing diets during the late gestation period and different litter sizes (LS). A total of 15 Ettawa grade does with a gestational age of 4 months were used in this study during the flushing period. The flushing ration was supplemented with a 2.8% fatty acid level in lauric acid (T1), α-linolenic acid (T2) and α-linolenic acid (T3). A factorial randomized complete design 3 x 2 in which the first factor was fatty acids and the second factor was litter sizes (LS1 and LS2) was used to measure blood hematology. Leukocyte level was higher in LS2 compared to LS1 (P<0.05), but it was not affected by fatty acids. Even though the lymphocyte level was highest in T3 and LS2 (P<0.05), it was still in the normal range. Monocyte and neutrophil were lower in T3 compared to T1 (P<0.05), but it was similar to T2. In conclusion, the results suggest that flushing in the late gestation period with supplementation of 2.8% α-linolenic acid improved the immune system at postpartum on the does giving birth to twins 2.
Validation of Commercial ELISA kit for Non-Invasive Measurement of Cortisol Concentrations and the Evaluation of the Sampling Time of Blood and Fecal Sample in Aceh Cattle
Authors: Gholib Gholib , Wahyuni Sri , Wahyudi Ahmad , Silalahi Khoiriyah S. , Akmal Muslim , Sabri Mustafa , Nugraha Taufiq P.
Published: February 2020

Some parameters should be evaluated before the analysis of cortisol hormone using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay ( ELISA ). The most important one is to test the validity of the ELISA kit itself since most of the commercially available ELISA kit is not designed for animal use. The time of sample collection is also another important parameter needed to be evaluated due to a known diurnal variation of cortisol concentrations. This study aims to validate a commercial ELISA kit and evaluate the sampling time on the diurnal variations of cortisol concentration in blood and feces of Aceh cattle. Blood and fecal samples were collected in the morning and afternoon from 8 Aceh cows aged 2-3 years. A commercial ELISA Kit (Cat. No. EIA-K003-H5, Arbor Assays®) was validated using analytical (parallelism, accuracy, and precision/% CV of intraand inter-assay) and biological validations (by analyzing sample preand post-transportation). The results of a parallelism test showed the diluted sample curve from the fecal extract was not significantly different (parallel) to the standard curve of EIA-K003-H5 kits (P>0.05), the accuracy of the assay: 99,76 ± 3.77%, and the % CV of intra-and inter-assay less than 10%. The results from the biological validation test showed that the concentrations of fecal cortisol post-transportation were significantly higher compared to the pre-transportation (P<0.05). Plasma cortisol concentrations collected in the morning were significantly higher (79.34%) compared to afternoon samples(P<0.05). However, cortisol concentrations in feces collected in the morning and afternoon did not show a significant difference (P>0.05). In conclusion, ELISA Kit (EIA-K003H5, Arbor Assays®) is a reliable assay for measuring cortisol in the feces of Aceh cows. Plasma cortisol concentrations in Aceh cows show a diurnal variation which is higher in the morning than afternoon, but the concentration of cortisol in the fecal sample did not.
Effect of After-Treatment of Strychnos ligustrina Extract on The Percentage of Parasitemia in Mice Infected with Plasmodium berghei
Authors: Cahyaningsih Umi , Sa’diah Siti , Syafii Wasrin , Sari Rita K. , M Harisyah , Wahyuningrum Maeda
Published: February 2020

Antimalarial treatment is usually given up to 4 days which reduces the number of parasitemia, but malaria can still occur. Therefore, a study to determine the percentage of parasitemia after drug administration is important. Strychnos ligustrina has been investigated in vitro to inhibit the growth of Plasmodium berghei and reduced the number of parasitemia during 4 days of treatment. The purpose of this study was to determine the percentage of parasitemia in mice infected with P. berghei after 4 day treatments with S. ligustrina extract. S. ligustrina was extracted by maceration method using Ethanol 25%, 50%, and 75% (E25, E50, E75, respectively), and Aquades (EA). This study used 91 male mice divided into 5 groups: E25, E50, E70, EA, each extract consisted of 3 doses (200, 400 and 800 mg/kg BW) and Drug Control (DC). For Drug Control (DC) was using a combination of Dihy-droartemisin dose 25 mg/kg BW and piperaquine phosphate dose 197 mg/kg BW. Mice infected with 1x 106 P. berghei intraperitoneally. Blood samples were taken on day 5 after treatment with S. ligustrina extract for 8 days (days 1-8 after treatment). Preparation of blood smear was stained with Giemsa to calculate the percentage of parasitemia by counting the number of infected erythrocytes divided by 500 erythrocytes and multiplied by 100%. The percentages of parasitemia day 7 with 3 kinds of doses of 200, 400, 800 mg/kg body weight in E25 (11,54%, 2.60% and 11.54%, respectively), in E50 (3.44%, 0%, 3.81%, respectively), in E75 (19.25%, 0.73 %, 9.75 %, respectively), in EA (0.77%, 4.48%, 8.67%, respectively) and in DC 2.10%. At the stage of schizogony, which is one of the life cycles of malaria found in the liver, this parasite is not visible in the blood circulation. The results showed that P. berghei was still found in the blood of mice after administration of S. ligustrina extracts up to 4 days in all treatments with different percentages of parasitemia. Based on these results it is recommended that the administration of drugs with S. ligustrina extract as antimalarial drugs for more than 4 days.
Detection Of Blood Parasites In Cattle In Kutalimbaru Subdistrict, Deli Serdang Regency, North Sumatera
Authors: Ritonga Mudhita Z. , Putra Andhika , Prastia Agun , Nasution Firdaus , Br Ginting Risdawati
Published: February 2020

The aim of this research was to identify and to find out the prevalence of blood parasites in cattle in Kutalimbaru Subdistrict, Deli Serdang Regency. This research was conducted in Kutalimbaru Subdistrict, Deli Serdang Regency from December 2018 to February 2019. Normal/healthy cattle of different breeds were randomly selected from five locations, namely Sei Mencirim village, Sawit Rejo village, Silebo-lebo village, Sampe Cita village and Pasar X village. A total of 150 blood samples were collected for blood smears. Diagnostic techniques were tested using Giemsa's staining technique. The blood parasites were then identified and their prevalence was determined. The results showed that one species of blood parasite was successfully identified, all belonging to the blood parasite, namely, Theileria sp. with a prevalence of 33%. In addition, there were no species of blood parasite from the Anaplasma, Trypanosoma, and Babesia. This study suggests that theileriosis is spreading to even the other region in North Sumatera. To reduce the infection, follow up surveys of the blood parasites of the livestock, assess their distribution and infection rates of possible vectors are recommended and plans control measures against should be focused on reducing transmission to highly susceptible animal species.
Mangrove Ecosystem Suitability for Ecotourism Management Recommendation in Iboih Village – Sabang
Authors: Nelly Cut , Rasnovi Saida , Zumaidar Zumaidar
Published: February 2020

Iboih is one of the villages located in the western area of Weh Island which has been popular as the marine tourism potential. The mangrove ecotourism potential has not been well developed. This study aims to review the mangrove ecosystem suitability as ecotourism area in Iboih Village – Sabang. The methodology used was an explorative survey method. The method of potential suitability determination was scoring and weighting achieved from each parameter reviewed consisting of mangrove density, mangrove species, tidal, biota object, area characteristics, and accessibility. The output of the study found 3 (three) mangrove species including Rhizhophora mucronata, Rhizhophora apiculata, and Avicennia alba. There are supporting biota objects consisting of aquatic dan land fauna. Based on the matrix of potential suitability for mangrove ecotourism, it was found that the tourism suitability index (TSI) as 82.14% indicating that the mangrove ecosystem in Iboih is very suitable for ecotourism area. The benefit of the study is to provide a contribution to science and become the facilities for environmental education and conservation to the community.
Non-Invasive Measurement of Cortisol Metabolite in Feces of Toraya Buffalo by Using Enzyme Immunoassay Technique
Authors: Gholib Gholib , Pampang Fatri H.R.A. , Lubis Triva M. , Adam Mulyadi , Jalaluddin Muhammad , Razali Razali , Azhar Azhar , Karmil Teuku F.
Published: February 2020

Non-invasive measurement hormones in feces using enzyme immunoassay (EIA) technique needs to be validated. This study was conducted to develop and validate an enzyme immunoassay kit for measuring the concentration of cortisol metabolites in feces of Toraya buffalo. An EIA kit of 11β-hydroxyetiocholanolone (11β-hydroxy-CM assay) was developed and validated analytically and biologically using feces of Toraya Buffalo for cortisol metabolite measurements. Analytical validation comprises the parallelism test, accuracy, precision, and assay sensitivity. Biological validation performed by comparing concentration cortisol metabolites in feces of Toraya buffalo before and after pa’silaga tedong, a fighting contest of buffalo during the death ceremony of rambu solo at Tana Toraja, South Sulawesi Province. Results showed that the curve of serial dilution of fecal samples was parallel with the 11β-hydroxy-CM standard curves. The accuracy and sensitivity of the 11β-hydroxy-CM assay were 96.21%±7.59 and 0.78pg/well, respectively. The precision based on coefficient variation (CV) of intraand inter-assay was < 10% and < 15%, respectively. Biological validation results showed that cortisol metabolites concentrations after pa’silaga tedong were increased 3-10 fold than before pa’silaga tedong. In conclusion, the 11β-hydroxy-CM assay is a reliable assay for measuring cortisol metabolites in feces of Toraya buffalo.
Net demand short-term forecasting in a distribution substation with PV power generation
Authors: Garcia-Garrido Eduardo , Mendoza-Villena Montserrat , Lara-Santillan Pedro M. , Zorzano-Alba Enrique , Falces Alberto
Published: February 2020

The integration of renewable energies, specifically solar energy, in electric distribution systems is increasingly common. For an optimal operation, it is very important to forecast the final net demand of the power distribution network, considering the variability of solar energy combined with the variability of the electric energy consumption habits of population. This paper presents the methodology followed to forecast the net demand in a power distribution substation. Two approaches are considered, the net demand direct prediction, and the indirect prediction with the forecasts of PV power generation and load demand. Artificial Neural Network (ANN) based models and autoregressive models with exogenous variables (ARX) are used to predict the net demand, directly and indirectly, for the 24 hours of the day-ahead. The methodology is applied to a medium voltage distribution substation and the direct and indirect forecasts are compared.
Restoration Aid Expert System for Power Systems
Authors: Lee Heung-Jae , Oh Jung-Hyun
Published: February 2020

This paper propose an intelligent restoration aid system that assists the decision of power system operators for reliable and fast restoration processes when a blackout happened in massive power systems. This system consists of a topology processor and intelligent restoration aid system. The topology processor identifies the real-time embedded topology structure between power system facilities and determines the power outage section. The power system restoration aid system determines the feasible restoration path in terms of overloads and real power flow. Case studies demonstrate a promising possibility of practical application.
Vector Control Algorithm Based on Different Current Control Switching Techniques for Ac Motor Drives
Authors: Usama Muhammad , Kim Jaehong
Published: February 2020

A comparative analysis of vector control scheme based on different current control switching pulses (HC, SPWM, DPWM and SVPWM) for the speed response of motor drive is analysed in this paper. The control system using different switching techniques, are comparatively simulated and analysed. Ac motor drives are progressively used in high-performance application industries due to small size, efficient performance, robust to torque response and high power to size ratio. A mathematical model of ac motor drives is presented in order to explain the numerical theory of motor drives. The vector control technique is utilized for efficient speed control of ac motor drive based on independent torque and air gap flux control. The study compares the total harmonic distortion contents of phase currents of ac motor drive and speed response in each case. The simulation result shows that total harmonic distortion across the phase current in SVPWM is less as compared to other switching techniques while the rise time in speed response across SVPWM technique is faster as compared to other switching methods. The simulation result of ac motor drives speed control is demonstrated in Matlab/Simulink 2018b.
Hijab fashion supply chain: a theoretical framework traversing consumers’ knowledge and purchase intention
Authors: Sumarliah Eli , Li Tieke , Wang Bailin
Published: February 2020

The recent expeditious growth of Muslim population in the world initiates a dramatic upsurge of demand for Hijab fashion. Hijab fashion is a green and sustainable fashion in accordance with Islamic principles on the modesty, safety, cleanliness, and comfort of clothings. Hijab supply chain is an indispensable issue, predominantly for Muslim consumers, manufacturers, and suppliers that oblige global Muslim markets. Nonetheless, research on Hijab fashion is very limited. More specifically, although knowledge of products has a significant consequence on consumers’ intention to buy Hijab, no preceding research have attempted to hypothesize the relationship between the knowledge dimensions of Hijab supply chain and consumer purchase intention. This paper attempts to propose an initial framework regarding Hijab purchase behavior. After an overall search of research articles directed in journal reference lists and electronic databases, the conceptual framework was created to hand out a set of propositions highlighting how to strengthen the link between consumers’ knowledge dimensions and their intention to purchase Hijab. Recommendations for future research and strategies to boost the advantages for Hijab fashion suppliers, manufacturers, and marketers can be obtained from this model.
On integrability and exact solvability in deterministic and stochastic Laplacian growth
Authors: Loutsenko Igor , Yermolayeva Oksana
Published: February 2020

We review applications of theory of classical and quantum integrable systems to the free-boundary problems of fluid mechanics as well as to corresponding problems of statistical mechanics. We also review important exact results obtained in the theory of multi-fractal spectra of the stochastic models related to the Laplacian growth: Schramm-Loewner and Levy-Loewner evolutions.
Tuberculosis in a pet ferret (Mustela putorius furo)
Authors: Barth Stefanie A. , Menge Christian , Hillemann Doris , Lauda Alexander , Pfleghaar Stephan
Published: February 2020

A 9-month old pet ferret was presented to a veterinarian with symptoms of weight loss, apathy, and hyporexia. Explorative laparotomy identified a firm mass of
approximately 2 × 2 × 2 cm in size in the mesentery of the jejunum. Because of the poor general condition and the unfavorable prognosis, the ferret was
euthanized during surgery. The mass was resected in total and submitted to histological examination which revealed a granulomatous and necrotizing
lymphadenitis. Acid fast bacteria were detected by Fite-Faraco staining leading to the suspicion of an infection with Mycobacteria sp. PCR confirmed
presence of DNA of members of the Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex, subsequently specified as M. bovis. The detected spoligotype SB2548 was
described for the first time. Ferrets are presented to veterinarians with increasing frequency because of their growing popularity as pet animals. Since these
animals are highly susceptible to mycobacterial infections, mycobacteriosis and especially zoonotic relevant tuberculosis should be considered as differential
diagnosis.
Differential Impact of Insulin Sensitizers vs. Anti-Androgen on Serum
Leptin Levels in Vitamin D Replete PCOS Women: A Six Month Open Labeled
Randomized Study
Authors: Rashid Aafia , Ganie Mohd Ashraf , Wani Imtiyaz Ahmad , Bhat Gulzar Ahmad , Shaheen Feroz , Wani Ishfaq Ahmed , Shrivastava Mukesh , Shah Zaffar Amin
Published: February 2020

Women with PCOS are linked to insulin resistance, inflammation, and vitamin D
(VD) deficiency. The study endeavors to comprehend the differential impact
of insulin sensitizers vs. anti-androgen on serum leptin levels among women
with PCOS rendered vitamin D replete with high VD oral supplement. This was
open-labeled randomized study that screened 180 eligible women presenting to
Endocrine clinic with oligomenorrhea or features of hyperandrogenism.
Ninety-nine women who furnished written informed consent and fulfilled the
Rotterdam 2003 criteria for diagnosis of PCOS were randomized into 3 drug
treatment arms to receive either spironolactone (50 mg/d;
n=30), metformin (1000 mg/d; n=30) or
pioglitazone (30 mg/d; n=30). These women were also
administered oral VD (4000 IU/day) in addition to the allocated drug
for a period of 6 months. Detailed history, clinical examination, and
laboratory evaluation was carried out at baseline and 6 months after
intervention. Number of menstrual cycles/year increased while as
Ferriman–Gallwey score, blood glucose, HOMA-IR, and plasma insulin
levels significantly decreased in all the three arms with better outcomes in
spironolactone and pioglitazone arms (p<0.05). Similarly, serum
leptin levels superiorly improved in spironolactone and pioglitazone group.
Pioglitazone group showed better efficacy in lowering serum total
testosterone (p<0.05). Co-supplementation of high dosage VD with
spironolactone or pioglitazone are more effective in reducing plasma leptin
levels than metformin, and thus might prove to be better therapeutic
strategies for women with PCOS.
Synthetic Studies Towards Spirocyclic Imine Marine Toxins Using N-Acyl Iminium Ions as Dienophiles in Diels–Alder Reactions
Authors: Freeman Jared L. , Li Freda F. , Furkert Daniel P. , Brimble Margaret A.
Published: February 2020

Cyclic imine marine toxins have attracted considerable attention from the synthetic community in the past two decades due to their unique chemical structures and clinically relevant biological activities. This review presents recent efforts of our group in the development of various strategies to efficiently construct the common spirocyclic imine fragments of the cyclic imine toxins. In particular, the use of α,β-unsaturated N-acyl iminium ion dienophiles in Diels–Alder reactions are highlighted, whereby direct access to spirocyclic imine motifs was obtained and important mechanistic details were discovered. Alternative approaches to spirocyclic imine systems involving hydroamination of amino alkynes are also summarized. One such approach led to serendipitous access to N-vinyl amide products, while our most recently ­reported approach involving an intermolecular Diels–Alder/cross-­coupling sequence using novel 2-bromo-1,3-butadienes to access 5,6-spirocyclic imines is also discussed. Additionally, the development of a novel method to construct another challenging motif present in the portimines is also introduced.

1 Introduction

2 Strategies towards the Spirocyclic Imine Fragment of Cyclic Imine Toxins

2.1 Diels–Alder Cycloadditions of α,β-Unsaturated N-Acyl Iminium Dienophiles

2.2 Early Studies Using in situ-Generated Iminium Ion Dienophiles

2.3 Use of More Stable Iminium Ion Dienophiles for Diels–Alder Reactions

2.4 Other Notable Strategies towards Spirocyclic Imines

2.5 Recent Efforts towards the 5,6-Spirocyclic Imine Marine Toxin Portimine A

2.6 Construction of Another Challenging Motif of Portimine A

3 Conclusion and Future Perspectives
kma ENTSCHEIDER-BLOG: Was bringt das Digitale-Versorgung-Gesetz?
Authors: Krohne Christian
Published: February 2020

Hashtag Gesundheit e. V diskutierte im Rahmen seines Formates #Politik_Talk die Frage „Was bringt das DVG?“ mit Selfapy-Gründerin Nora Blum, Chris Berger, Referent Politik bvitg, und Dr. Gottfried Ludewig, Abteilungsleiter Digitalisierung im Bundesministerium für Gesundheit und maßgeblicher Antreiber des Digitale-Versorgung-Gesetzes.
JAPANS GESUNDHEITSMARKT: Der digitale Vorreiter
Authors: Kucera Martin
Published: February 2020

Die demografische Entwicklung wird in Japan als Chance zu einer umfassenden Transformation des Gesundheitssektors begriffen, die auch deutschen Unternehmen neue Perspektiven erschließt. Die neue Offenheit im Umgang mit Big-Data könnte sogar Hürden zu überwinden, die hierzulande einem schnellen Fortschritt im Weg stehen.
Sliding region and coexisting attractors of a friction-induced self-excited vibration
Authors: Fu Shihui , Ma Huizhen
Published: February 2020

This paper mainly investigates the nonlinear dynamics of a friction-induced self-excited vibration when the coefficient of static friction is larger than that of kinetic friction. First, this system is rewritten by a new theory proposed by Jeffrey, which is different from the Filippov theory. Then, the sliding region is obtained from the theory, which is also verified by the numerical simulation. Furthermore, multiple attractors, such as period-1 orbit and equilibrium point, period-2 orbit and equilibrium point, can coexist if the coefficient of static friction exceeds that of kinetic friction, but it is not true if they are equal. Finally, some sliding bifurcations, such as crossing-sliding bifurcation, switching-sliding bifurcation, and grazing-sliding bifurcation, are also found.
Design and development of instrumentation for the measurement of sensor array responses
Authors: Keshari Ajay Kumar , Prabhakar Rao J. , Sree Rama Murthy A. , Jayaraman V.
Published: February 2020

Indigenous instrumentation has been designed and developed for the measurement of the concentration of analytes from eight conductometric metal oxide sensors. The hardware scheme of instrumentation is based on the astable multivibrator configuration. The hardware measures the resistance output from the sensors, conditions, processes, and displays the data on the liquid crystal display. An 8051 based processor averages the data, converts them into engineering units, and sends them to remote PC through ethernet communication for post-data analysis. A graphical user interface (GUI) is developed to acquire, monitor, and display the eight channels’ sensor output. GUI plots the online data and offline data as a popup window. The hardware and software of the instrument were tested with standard resistors for calibration and found that in-house developed instrumentation is able to measure with an accuracy of ±0.5% with a resolution of 500 Ω. The instrument has been tested with a semiconductor metal oxide sensor, viz., chromium niobate (CrNbO4).
Voltage-induced strain to control the magnetization of bi FeRh/PZT and tri PZT/FeRh/PZT layered magnetoelectric composites
Authors: Amirov A. A. , Baraban I. A. , Grachev A. A. , Kamantsev A. P. , Rodionov V. V. , Yusupov D. M. , Rodionova V. V. , Sadovnikov A. V.
Published: February 2020

The bi- and tri- layered magnetoelectric composites were fabricated from magnetic Fe49Rh51 and piezoelectric PbZr0.53Ti0.47O3 materials. It was shown the electric field-induced stresses reduce the magnetization around magnetic phase transition temperature of Fe49Rh51: by 5.4% for tri-layer PZT/FeRh/PZT composite and by 3.6% for bi-layer FeRh/PZT composite. The magnetoelectric properties were studied at 320 K, the magnetization rate was estimated for the magnetic field of 0.5 T. The heterogeneous distributions of stresses and magnetization in volume of magnetic layer under applied magnetic and electric fields were demonstrated using COMSOL Multiphysics software. The obtained results demonstrate the tri-layered composite is more effective for tuning the magnetization
Tip vortices formation and evolution of rotating wings at low Reynolds numbers
Authors: Li Chengyu , Dong Haibo , Cheng Bo
Published: February 2020

The wake structures generated by rotating wings are studied numerically to investigate the complex vortex formation and evolution in both near-wake and far-wake regions. Flat rectangular wings with finite aspect ratios (AR = 1–8) that rotate from rest at an angle of attack ranging from 15° to 90° in a low Reynolds number regime (200–1600) are considered. Simulations were carried out using an in-house immersed-boundary-method-based incompressible flow solver. A detailed analysis of the vortex formation showed that the general wake pattern near the wingtip shifted from a single vortex loop to a pair of counter-rotating vortex loops with the enhancement of the leading-edge vortex (LEV) strength. Specifically, a stronger LEV due to the high angles of attack or high aspect ratios can induce an enhanced counter-pair trailing-edge vortex (TEV). As the TEV intensifies, a secondary tip vortex will be generated at the bottom corner of the wingtip, regardless of the wing geometry. This forms a pair of counter-rotating vortex loops around the wingtip. This type of wingtip vortex formation and evolution are found to be universal for the range of angle of attack and aspect ratio investigated. In addition to the vortex formation, surface pressure distribution and aerodynamic performance are also discussed. The findings from this work could help advance the fundamental understanding in the vortex dynamics of finite-aspect ratio rotating wings at a high angle of attack (>15°).
Numerical study of fluid flow and heat transfer characteristics of an oscillating porous circular cylinder in crossflow
Authors: Ebrahimi Elham , Amini Yasser , Imani Gholamreza
Published: February 2020

In this paper, numerical simulation of fluid flow and heat transfer characteristics of a porous cylinder subjected to a transverse oscillation in subcritical crossflow are studied for the first time. As such, the effects of Darcy number, 10−6 ≤ Da ≤ 10−2, reduced frequency, 0.2688 ≤ f* ≤ 1.075, dimensionless amplitude, A/d = 0.5 and 1, and Reynolds number, 5 ≤ Re ≤ 40, on the problem are investigated. It is revealed by the results that for an oscillating porous cylinder even at the subcritical Reynolds number of 40, the vortex shedding surprisingly develops behind the cylinder for cases with Da ≤ 10−4, f* = 1.075, and A/d = 1. Furthermore, it is shown that this subcritical vortex shedding always happens at the lock-in situation. The oscillation of the cylinder is shown to always increase the lift and drag coefficients compared to the stationary cylinder. According to the results, interestingly, the average drag coefficient increases with increasing Darcy number at intermediate Darcy numbers (10−4 ≤ Da ≤ 10−3). It is concluded that two mechanisms boost the heat transfer rate, namely, the vortex shedding, which is the case for the low Darcy zone at the highest frequency and amplitude of the oscillation, and the flow penetration, which is of more importance to the high Darcy zone. In conclusion, the maximum increase in the average Nusselt number is achieved at the highest values of the frequency and amplitude, which provide 18%, 28%, 51%, and 81% heat transfer enhancement compared to the stationary cylinder for Da = 10−6, 10−4, 10−3, and 10−2, respectively.
A high resolution time-to-digital-convertor based on a carry-chain and DSP48E1 adders in a 28-nm field-programmable-gate-array
Authors: Qin Xi , Zhu Ming-Dong , Zhang Wen-Zhe , Lin Yi-Heng , Rui Ying , Rong Xing , Du Jiangfeng
Published: February 2020

A field-programmable-gate-array (FPGA) based time-to-digital-converter (TDC), which combines different types of delay chains in a single time measurement channel, is reported in this paper. A new TDC architecture is developed, and both a carry-chain and the DSP48E1 adders, which are integrated inside the FPGA chip, are employed to achieve high resolution time tagging. A single channel TDC has a 3.3 ps averaged bin size, a 5.4 ps single-shot precision, and a maximum sampling rate of 250 MSa/s. The differential-non-linearity of the single TDC channel is −3.3 ps/+24.1 ps, and the integral-non-linearity is within −10.4 ps/+68.6 ps. The TDC performance can be improved by using four TDC channels to measure one input signal, and a 3.4 ps single-shot precision can be obtained. Due to the implementation of the delicated TDC structure, only a small amount of digital resources is required to achieve the picosecond time measurement resolution. Therefore, the reported TDC architecture is suitable for multi-channel applications that require high time resolution measurements of multiple input signals.
Reduced annealing temperature for ferroelectric HZO on InAs with enhanced polarization
Authors: Persson Anton E. O. , Athle Robin , Littow Pontus , Persson Karl-Magnus , Svensson Johannes , Borg Mattias , Wernersson Lars-Erik
Published: February 2020

Deposition, annealing, and integration of ferroelectric HfxZr1−xO2 (HZO) thin films on the high-mobility semiconductor InAs using atomic layer deposition are investigated. Electrical characterization reveals that the HZO films on InAs exhibit an enhanced remanent polarization compared to films formed on a reference TiN substrate, exceeding 20 μC/cm2 even down to an annealing temperature of 370 °C. For device applications, the thermal processes required to form the ferroelectric HZO phase must not degrade the high-κ/InAs interface. We find by evaluation of the capacitance–voltage characteristics that the electrical properties of the high-κ/InAs are not significantly degraded by the annealing process, and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy verifies a maintained sharp high-κ/InAs interface.
Deterministic and stochastic control of kirigami topology
Authors: Chen Siheng , Choi Gary P. T. , Mahadevan L.
Published: February 2020

Kirigami, the creative art of paper cutting, is a promising paradigm for mechanical metamaterials. However, to make kirigami-inspired structures a reality requires controlling the topology of kirigami to achieve connectivity and rigidity. We address this question by deriving the maximum number of cuts (minimum number of links) that still allow us to preserve global rigidity and connectivity of the kirigami. A deterministic hierarchical construction method yields an efficient topological way to control both the number of connected pieces and the total degrees of freedom. A statistical approach to the control of rigidity and connectivity in kirigami with random cuts complements the deterministic pathway, and shows that both the number of connected pieces and the degrees of freedom show percolation transitions as a function of the density of cuts (links). Together, this provides a general framework for the control of rigidity and connectivity in planar kirigami.