bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An in-situ integrated material distinction sensor based on density and heat capacity
Authors: Wu Sicheng , Yang Jie , Xing Jian , Yu Jiajie , Zhang Ke
Published: July 2023

Material distinction via artificial intelligence (AI) has been studied extensively and demonstrates strong capacity. However, a high-performance sensor and accurate theoretical model remain necessary to assist AI in precise identification. Here, we developed an in-situ integrated material distinction sensor, which depends on the density (ρ) and heat capacity (C) of measured matter. The device is fabricated using an outer nickel (Ni) thermistor and an inner laser-induced graphene (LIG) heater on a polyimide substrate. When a sample is placed on the surface of the sensor and a certain voltage is applied to the LIG heater, the Ni thermistor will perceive the temperature changing trends, which can reflect the heat absorption and conduction ability of the placed material. Notably, finite element analysis was conducted and the simulation results are perfectly combined with the experimental results, which implied that the ρ and C of the sample together determined the temperature distribution, instead of the thermal conductivity (κ). By establishing a heat absorption model, each kind of material can be identified with a feature value. A novel sensor and corresponding physical model are provided to perceive the material properties, improving the range and accuracy of material identification based on a contact-mode sensing mechanism.
An effective fusion positioning methodology for land vehicles in GPS-denied environments using low-cost sensors
Authors: Zheng Zhiyong , Li Xu , Kong Dong , Hu Jinchao , Hu Yue
Published: July 2023

It is still a main challenge to achieve accurate and reliable vehicle positioning in Global Position System (GPS)-denied environments using low-cost sensors. Although existing methods have obtained a certain performance improvement, there is still room for further enhancement in positioning accuracy due to the lack of effective observation information during GPS outages. To address this challenge, this paper proposes an effective fusion positioning methodology based on enhanced observation information. Firstly, a data denoising algorithm based on convolutional denoising autoencoder is developed to effectively filter the noises in inertial sensors, so as to provide more clean data for subsequent modeling. Then, a differential fusion strategy is designed to selectively fuse multiple observation information from monocular camera, low-cost GPS and wheel speed sensor with extended Kalman filter, which can further improve the positioning accuracy. Finally, a long short-term memory-based error prediction model is constructed to learn the mapping relationship between the result of data denoising and differential fusion. In the case of GPS outages, the error model provides accurate corrections to compensate for position errors of inertial navigation system. The performance of the proposed methodology was evaluated on real-world data collected in complex urban environments. Experimental results indicate that the proposed positioning methodology can obtain significant accuracy enhancement.
A reinforcement neural architecture search convolutional neural network for rolling bearing fault diagnosis
Authors: Li Lintao , Jiang Hongkai , Wang Ruixin , Yang Qiao
Published: July 2023

The complexity of machinery makes accurate identification of rolling bearing fault signals difficult. Convolutional neural networks (CNNs) have made some progress, but they rely on the expertise of the network designer and the iterative process of optimizing numerous parameters. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop a method that reduces the threshold for designing CNNs for a given task. In this article, we propose a reinforcement neural architecture search CNN to address this problem. Firstly, we design a neural architecture search algorithm that can generate different types of sub-networks specifically for fault diagnosis tasks. Secondly, we execute a reinforcement learning-based search strategy to discover promising sub-networks. Furthermore, we enhance the performance of the sub-network by improving the optimizer and training parameters. We conduct extensive experiments using two different types of datasets and verify that the proposed method’s fault classification capability is superior to existing methods.
A 50 pico-g resolution integrated test facility for high-precision inertial sensors
Authors: Mei Bin , Ma Cheng , Bai Yanzheng , Hu Ming , Liu Li , Lv Menghao , Ma Yun , Qu Shaobo , Wu Shuchao , Yu Jianbo , Zhou Zebing
Published: July 2023

High-precision inertial sensors are the key instruments for many applications. However, their performance is difficult to test on the ground due to the effect of seismic noise. To evaluate the complete performance of inertial sensors, the main test items include noise floor test, scale factor calibration, resolution test and so on. The accelerometers used in inertial navigation and precision measurement fields usually require direct resolution test. Depending on the application, the resolution of high-precision accelerometers can reach up to the pico-g (pg) level or even higher. However, the resolution test ability of conventional test systems is limited by the seismic noise and the precision of the input signal, which becomes the main obstacle for the development of sub-nano-g to pg level accelerometers. In this paper, a simultaneous two-dimensional integrated performance test facility is developed using an active vibration isolation bench and precision gravitational input, allowing the performance test of high-precision inertial sensors and direct evaluation of resolution at the 50 pg level.
Nanoflower-like FeVNi3S2–x
as efficient electrocatalyst for alkaline oxygen evolution reaction
Authors: Makabu Cynthia Mulanga , Tian Shengnan , Kalau Marc Kalamb , Gong Zizhen , Niu Weixing , Wu Changcheng , Li Jingde
Published: July 2023

The development of low cost efficient catalysts for oxygen evolution reaction (OER) is still a obstacle to realize the commercialization of electrocatalytic water splitting. Herein, interface engineering and heteroatom doping is adopted to synthesize iron and vanadium doped nickel sulfide on nickel foam via hydrothermal method followed by hydrogen treatment to create sulfur defects. The optimized nanoflower-like FeVNi3S2–x
/NF is an efficient OER electrocatalyst that outperforms many of the reported transition metals catalysts. Benefiting from abundant sulfur defects and the synergistic effect of heteroatom doping, FeVNi3S2–x
/NF exhibits an ultralow overpotential of 230 mV to reach a current density of 100 mA cm−2, a rapid reaction kinetics with a small Tafel slope of 46.6 mV dec−1, and a stable long-term durability in 1 M KOH. Experimental results and characterizations confirm that sulfur vacancies together with the synergistic effect from multiple heteroatom doping can effectively regulate the electronic structure, resulting in increased electrical conductivity and electrochemically active surface area, thus enhancing OER performance. Furthermore, in situ Raman spectroscopy reveals that, the reconstitution amorphous nickel oxyhydroxide (NiOOH) on the catalyst surface is responsible for catalyzing the OER reaction. This work represents a promising methodology to synthesize low-cost and highly active OER electrocatalysts.
Nanowire biosensors with olfactory proteins: towards a genuine electronic nose with single molecule sensitivity and high selectivity
Authors: Noh Sangjun , Tombola Francesco , Burke Peter
Published: July 2023

We describe the concept and roadmap of an engineered electronic nose with specificity towards analytes that differ by as little as one carbon atom, and sensitivity of being able to electrically register a single molecule of analyte. The analyte could be anything that natural noses can detect, e.g. trinitrotoluene (TNT), cocaine, aromatics, volatile organic compounds etc. The strategy envisioned is to genetically engineer a fused olfactory odorant receptor (odorant receptor (OR), a membrane-bound G-protein coupled receptor (GPCR) with high selectivity) to an ion channel protein, which opens in response to binding of the ligand to the OR. The lipid bilayer supporting the fused sensing protein would be intimately attached to a nanowire or nanotube network (either via a covalent tether or a non-covalent physisorption process), which would electrically detect the opening of the ion channel, and hence the binding of a single ligand to a single OR protein domain. Three man-made technological advances: (1) fused GPCR to ion channel protein, (2) nanowire sensing of single ion channel activity, and (3) lipid bilayer to nanotube/nanowire tethering chemistry and on natural technology (sensitivity and selectivity of OR domains to specific analytes) each have been demonstrated and/or studied independently. The combination of these three technological advances and the result of millions of years of evolution of OR proteins would enable the goal of single molecule sensing with specificity towards analytes that differ by as little as one carbon atom. This is both a review of the past and a vision of the future.
A review on advanced band-structure engineering with dynamic control for nonvolatile memory based 2D transistors
Authors: Zhang Chi , Ning Jing , Wang Dong , Zhang Jincheng , Hao Yue
Published: July 2023

With advancements in information technology, an enormous amount of data is being generated that must be quickly accessible. However, conventional Si memory cells are approaching their physical limits and will be unable to meet the requirements of intense applications in the future. Notably, 2D atomically thin materials have demonstrated multiple novel physical and chemical properties that can be used to investigate next-generation electronic devices and breakthrough physical limits to continue Moore’s law. Band structure is an important semiconductor parameter that determines their electrical and optical properties. In particular, 2D materials have highly tunable bandgaps and Fermi levels that can be achieved through band structure engineering methods such as heterostructure, substrate engineering, chemical doping, intercalation, and electrostatic doping. In particular, dynamic control of band structure engineering can be used in recent advancements in 2D devices to realize nonvolatile storage performance. This study examines recent advancements in 2D memory devices that utilize band structure engineering. The operational mechanisms and memory characteristics are described for each band structure engineering method. Band structure engineering provides a platform for developing new structures and realizing superior performance with respect to nonvolatile memory.
Magnetic behavior of Fe3O4@C nanofibers by a facile co-axial electrospinning method
Authors: Sethy Pujashree Priyadarshini , Sundaray Bibekananda
Published: July 2023

Co-axially electrospun, magnetic Fe3O4@carbon (Fe3O4@C) nanofibers comprising Fe3O4 particles in the core and carbon in the shell have been fabricated and their performances as magnetic material have been studied. The electrospun Fe3O4@C nanofibers have been characterized with x-ray diffraction, field emission scanning electron microscopy, high-resolution transmission electron microscope, x-ray photoelectron spectroscope (XPS), and superconducting quantum interference device magnetometer. The structural and microstructural analysis has given a brief idea about the pure Fe3O4 and C phase formation and also the existence of smooth and continuous morphology of Fe3O4@C nanofibers. It has been shown that there exist two different oxidation states of Fe in the XPS spectrum. The magnetization hysteresis loop has been observed at low temperatures (5 K, 100 K) as well as at room temperature (300 K) which gives different magnetic parameters. Temperature dependent magnetic measurements (from 5 to 300 K) suggest the existence of Verwey transition for lower percentage of iron oxide content.
Scalar particle creation in a quantum gravity perspective
Authors: Bilim A B , Aydogdu O , Salti M
Published: July 2023

In gravity’s rainbow perspective (GRP), we intend to analyze the particle production coming from electromagnetic and gravitational fields of the spin-0 (scalar) particles. In accordance with this purpose, a constant external electric field is taken into account together with a rainbow metric with non-isotropic expansion. We obtain the number density of the created Klein–Gordon particles in terms of particle mass, particle charge, external electric field parameter, rainbow functions and particle momentum by using the Bogoliubov transformation method. We display that the number density of the created scalar particles becomes thermal both in the absence of the external constant electric field and in the massless case. We also provide a graphical analysis to scrutinize the particle creation process in the GRP. In this context, it has been observed that rainbow functions drastically alter the number density of the created scalar particles.
Unstable confocal resonator with external flat semi-transparent mirror for additional feedback
Authors: Kislov V I , Ofitserov E N
Published: July 2023

Main characteristics (mode structure of power loss, divergence of resonant radiation) of a three-mirror laser cavity with additional feedback are theoretically studied in the Fresnel approximation on the basis of the Fox-Lee integral equation. The resonator consists of two spherical mirrors, which form an unstable confocal resonator, and a flat semi-transparent mirror, which is installed outside the reference unstable resonator perpendicular to its optical axis. The flat coupling mirror returns part of the radiation back inside the resonator. The level of additional feedback is determined by the reflection coefficient of the flat mirror and the position of the mirror along the optical axis of the resonator. Variation of these parameters makes it possible to control the transparency of the three-mirror resonator over a wide range, up to values close to zero. Results of this paper can be used in the development of high-power lasers with wide aperture (Fresnel numbers of ∼100) on the basis of low-gain active media.
Proposal for the complete high-dimensional Greenberger–Horne–Zeilinger state measurement
Authors: Zeng Zhi
Published: July 2023

A theoretical proposal for the complete analysis of high-dimensional Greenberger–Horne–Zeilinger (GHZ) state is presented in this Letter. We first demonstrate the approach for the complete three-photon GHZ state measurement in three dimensions, and then generalize it to the situation of N-photon system in d dimensions. In our approach, the photonic hyperentanglement and quantum Fourier transform are both utilized. The presented proposal will be useful for the high-dimensional multi-photon quantum computation and quantum communication.
Modified linear regression for predicting ambient particulate pollutants (PM10) during High Particulate Event
Authors: Mohd Jafri I A , Noor N Mohamed , Rahim N A A A , Baidrulhisham S E , Ramli N , Ul-Saufie A Z , Deak G
Published: July 2023

Particulate Matter (PM10) is one of the most significant contributors towards haze or high particulate event (HPE) that occurs in Malaysia. HPE can severely affect human health, environment and economic so it is important to create a reliable prediction model in predicting future PM10 concentration especially during HPE. Therefore, the aim of this study is to investigate the performance of modified linear regression models in predicting the next-day Particulate Matter (PM10+24) concentration at two areas in the peninsular Malaysia namely, Bukit Rambai and Nilai. Hourly air quality dataset during historic HPE in 1997, 2005, 2013 and 2015 were used for analysis. Pearson correlation was used to select the input of the PM10 prediction model where only parameters with moderate (0.6 > r > 0.3) and strong (r > 0.6) correlation with PM10 concentration were selected as independent variables input in creating the multiple linear regression (MLR) model. The performance of modified linear regression model was evaluated by using several performance indicator which is Prediction Accuracy (PA), Index of Agreement (d
2), Root Mean Squared Error (RMSE) and Mean Absolute Error (MAE). The results show that the modified MLR (parameter with r > 0.6 included as input) gave the best prediction model for the next-day PM10 concentration in both Bukit Rambai and Nilai.
Analysis of the results from the applied technologies for carbon dioxide sampling in aquatic ecosystems
Authors: Enache N , Laslo L , Matei M , Boboc M , Cătuneanu I , Deák G
Published: July 2023

Globally, streams and rivers contain important stocks of carbon dioxide and release 1.8 ± 0.25 Pg of carbon each year. The literature review demonstrates that wetlands carbon sequestration capacity and effluxes are not homogenous. Considering those differences, it is crucial to comprehend how these effluxes vary depending on the characteristics of open water plots and areas with vegetation along river basins and how different weather conditions affect the variation of CO2 efflux. The purpose of this study was to analyse the various plots along Dambovita river’s watercourse in order to better understand the fluctuation of the CO2 efflux at the water-atmosphere interface and its dependent parameters. Here, we applied two complimentary methods with close chambers: dynamic by respiration chamber and static by injection kit in order to describe CO2 efflux data sets. Additionally, we measured simultaneously the weather parameters (air temperature, precipitation, wind speed), but also the water quality parameters. The CO2 efflux results are a starting point for improving the emission factor for rivers in temperate climate zone, which is 1.46 for default values at the country level. Also, the analysis performed contributes to a better understanding of how spatial and temporal variability of river characteristics impacts CO2 effluxes.
Investigation of Indoor Air Quality by Incorporating Sewage Sludge Waste into Fired Clay Brick
Authors: Salim Nurul Salhana Abdul , Kadir Aeslina Abdul , Noor Norazian Mohamed
Published: July 2023

Generally, the production of sewage sludge waste has increased due to rapid growth of the population. Due to that, the disposal method has become crucial issues nowadays. Therefore, this research focuses on the investigation of indoor air quality of fired clay brick incorporating with sewage sludge. The bricks were incorporated with 0% and 5% of two type of sewage sludge and fired at 1050°C with heating rates 1°C/min. The experiment of Indoor Air Quality was obtained by measuring gases emissions of total volatile organic compound (TVOC), carbon dioxide (CO2), carbon monoxide (CO), ozone (O3), formaldehyde (HCHO) and particulate matter (PM10) and were compared with Industry Code of Practice on Indoor Air Quality requirement standard. From the result shows that by incorporation of 5% of sewage sludge into fired clay brick complied with the standard requirement for building material usage with no negative effect to the environment. As the conclusions, the use of sewage sludge as clay replacement reduces the waste disposal in landfills and produce the low-cost building materials.
Evaluation of the Ecological Risk and the Development of Antimicrobial Resistance due to the Presence of the Macrolide Antibiotics Azithromycin and Clarithromycin in Romanian Aquatic Environment
Authors: Ilie Mihaela , Marinescu Florica , Ghita Gina , Savin Ioana , Tudor Georgeta , Luminaroiu Lucian , Gheorghe Petrache-Ionut , Dumitrescu Georgiana , Noor Norazian Mohamed
Published: July 2023

The presence of antibiotics in the aquatic environment can result in the emergence of antibiotic-resistant pathogens. In this paper, our aim was to identify, quantify and distribute macrolide antibiotics in the aquatic environment in the river basins of Arges-Vedea, Buzau-Ialomita and Dobrogea-Litoral and of the Danube River. In the Arges-Vedea river basin area, clarithromycin was detected most frequently, i.e. 58.62%, in the Buzau-Ialomita river basin area with a frequency of 92.31% azithromycin was detected, and in the Dobrogea - Litoral river basin area clarithromycin was detected with a frequency of 35.48%. The highest concentration of azithromycin, 559 ng/L and of clarithromycin, 502 ng/L was recorded in the Buzau-Ialomita river basin. The ecotoxicological RQecotox risk was also estimated, as well as the risk of developing antibiotic resistance of RQAMR pathogens, by the ratio of Measured Environmental Concentration (MEC) and Predicted No Effect Concentrations (PNEC). The study also aimed to investigate the prevalence of antibiotic resistance in potentially pathogenic bacteria isolated from aquatic environments. Thus, for β-lactam antibiotics, E. coli strains isolated from the Danube River exhibited a very high level of resistance to ampicillin (51%) and high level to azithromycin (43%), cefazolin (38%), amoxicillin+clavulanic acid (36%) and cefoxitin (26%). Low and respectively, low level resistance was noticed for aztreonam (6%) and imipenem (4%).
Strength and Acoustics Properties of Lightweight Foamed Concrete Incorporating of Bio-Based Aggregate
Authors: Yong Zi Cong , Yew Ming Kun , Sieng Xin Wei , Beh Jing Han , Yew Ming Chian , Lee Foo Wei
Published: July 2023

This paper investigates the incorporation of bio-based aggregate in lightweight foam concrete (LWFC). The aim of this research is to determine the strength and acoustics properties of lightweight foamed concrete incorporating 5% bio-based aggregate (LWFC-OPS5). A targeted density of 1100 +/- 100 kg/m3 of LWFC-OPS5 is produced and achieved a compressive strength of 3 MPa. A total of six mixes containing different water to cement (w/c) ratios 0.52, 0.56 and 0.60 with 0% and 5% of OPS replacement were designed. From the result, LWFC-OPS5-0.52 had showed the highest strength properties at 28 days, which are recorded at 3.59 MPa and 1.75 MPa respectively. It also showed the highest density among the LWFC-OPS5 mix design which is 1180 kg/m3 under fresh density conditions. LWFC-OPS5-0.56 has showed the most significant increase in compressive strength and flexural strength at 28 days, which have an increment of 30 - 40% from 7 days’ results. On the other hand, LWFC-OPS5-0.60 has increased about 36.81%, 32.73% and 63.83% compared to LWFC-CTR. All cube specimens have achieved above 3 MPa of compressive strength except LWFC-OPS5-0.60 due to its lowest fresh density. From the acoustics properties test results, LWFC-OPS5-0.56 had showed the maximum sound absorption coefficient. Thus, this research proved that LWFC-OPS5 can be used for different applications such as wall panels, roof tiles, sound barriers and etc.
Waste to concrete material: Potential Study of Chemical Characterization of Coal Fly Ash and Bottom Ash
Authors: Rahim Nur Liza , Mohammed Syakirah Afiza , Amat Roshazita Che , Ibrahim Norlia Mohamad , Hamzah Nurhidayah , Samsudin Salmi , Salehuddin Shamshinar , Rahim Mustaqqim Abdul , Holban Elena
Published: July 2023

This research focuses on the chemical properties of coal fly ash (CFA) and coal bottom ash (CBA) obtained from Sultan Azlan Shah Power Plant and compares them with the characteristics of ordinary Portland cement (OPC). Coal has been recognised as a significant fuel source in Malaysia, where it is extensively employed in the creation of steel, cement, and power. When coal is burned to create power, several different types of coal ash are created, including fly ash, bottom ash, boiler slag, and clinker. Fly and bottom ash, however, are the main coal ash waste products that have been created. In an effort to create sustainable concrete from waste, a number of studies have been carried out to ascertain the chemical characteristics of fly and bottom ash. These tests include Energy Disperse X-Ray (EDX), Mineralogy (XRD), and X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF). From the SEM result, fly ash has smaller particles and a spherical, uniform shape than bottom ash and cement. Fly and bottom ash from the Sultan Azlan Shah power plant contain a number of elements, including Silicon (Si), Aluminium (Al), Oxygen (O), Calcium (Ca), Titanium (Ti), Iron (Fe), Magnesium (Mg), Potassium (K), Carbon (C), and Sodium, according to Energy Dispersive X-Ray (EDX) test. The fly ash is primarily an amorphous material, with the presence of quartz crystalline phase (SiO2) at 24.3% and bottom ash at 31.1%, according to X-ray Diffraction (XRD) data. For the mullite phase (3AlO3.2SiO2), fly and bottom ash show results of 24.9% and 14.5%, respectively. According to an X-ray fluorescence (XRF) investigation, the main constituents of fly and bottom ash are silica, iron, and alumina. Fly ash is classified as Class F because it has a high concentration of SiO2, Al2O3, and Fe2O3 while OPC has a high CaO value. With the right composition and material preparation, CFA and CBA from the Sultan Azlan Shah Power Plant can be used as a cement replacement in concrete.
Effect of Incorporating Coal Bottom Ash on The Properties of Concrete
Authors: Amat Roshazita Che , Rahim Nur Liza , Mohamed Syakirah Afiza , Ibrahim Norlia Mohamad , Matagi Ahmed Bashir Hamid , Muhamad Norshahirah , Raischi Marius , Bahatin Munif
Published: July 2023

Industrial waste without proper control may lead to contamination and cause environmental pollution. Transforming waste such as coal bottom ash (CBA) wastes into a sustainable construction material is so much help in reducing the waste in the surroundings and is also environmentally friendly. In this research, cement was replaced with CBA in the concrete to analyse the effect on concrete performance. Consequently, this project focuses on physical and mechanical properties of concrete before and after using CBA. In the design stage for concrete mixing, the ratio for raw materials selected was 1:1.35:3.2 for cement, sand, and aggregates, respectively (grade 25). Two different major categories of concrete were made and compared. The first category is ordinary concrete with control concrete mix (CM), while the second category is concrete which uses 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, and 30% of CBA partial replacement in the volume of cement in the concrete mix. The samples we used in this research were cubes 100 mm x 100 mm x 100 mm prepared for the water absorption, density, and compression test. The workability of concrete containing CBA with fixed water quantity was lower corresponding to that of the control mix. The hardened concrete density was reduced, and the water absorption increased with an increased amount of ground CBA. The results for the compressive test of control samples are 22.940 N/mm at 28 days of curing, and the highest percentage was 10% CBA which is 28.28 MPa. Since the strength of the concrete with CBA is increasing so, modified concretes can be considered to use in construction.
Reusability of Oil Palm Empty Fruit Bunches (EFB) Waste with Tapioca Starch for Polymer-Based Agriculture Application: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Rassman Nur Hidayah Kamilia Binti , Basha Siti Hanisah Binti Mustafa Kamal , Mohamed Radin Maya Saphira Binti Radin , Algheethi Adel Ali Saeed Abduh
Published: July 2023

The existence of oil palm wastes has caused a significant disposal challenge, and it contains high fibre that is hard to disintegrate. Empty fruit bunches (EFB) contributes approximately 24 weights (wt.) % of solid waste in oil palm industries and has a high cellulose content. This study aims to find the best combination ratio of EFB fine fibre (EFBF) and tapioca starch for polymer production (EFBT) and its characterisation. The oil palm EFB waste was collected from Southern Malay Palm Oil Mill at Simpang Renggam, Johor, and shredded using an industrial fibre grinder. The EFBF and tapioca starch (TS) was combined using water and microwave heating according to the ratio generated using Response Surface Methodology (RSM), and the end homogenous pellet obtained was then analysed using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) while the raw EFB fine fibre was analysed using Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy - Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (FESEM-EDS). SEM analysis shows that the increasing homogenous interaction with less void was represented by respective EFBF to TS ratios 1:9, 1:5, 5:9, 5:5, 9:5, 5:1 and 9:1. The highest water contact angle recorded was 88.53° using ratio 1:9 followed by 40.35° using ratio 1:5, and no water contact angle obtained for 9:5, 5:5, 5:1, 5:9 and 9:1 ratios. The fastest rate of disintegration was recorded by 5:1 with 2712.000 g/day, while the slowest rate of disintegration was recorded by 9:1 with 1.206 g/day. The ANOVA analysis for water contact angle was significant as the p-values were <0.05, while for disintegration rate was not significant as the p-value was >0.05. However, although both models are unable to project optimised values for further testing, this study did provide a baseline for range selection for future study using RSM for optimisation of EFBF and TS.
A Novel: Low-cost Method for the Isolation of Anaerobic Hydrogen Producing Bacteria
Authors: Dung Thi Ngoc Bao , Minh Tran Duc , Minh Pham Hoang , Pham Kim-Hanh Thi , Nguyen Tam-Anh Duong
Published: July 2023

The hydrogen content of the two sludge samples namely TDS and PLS were increased after the heat shock pretreatment from 239.23 ± 10.23 mL/L to 663.87 ± 15.99 mL/L at 80°C and from 173.61 ± 17.21 mL/L to 496.74 ± 30.21 mL/L at 60°C, respectively. Polymerase chain reaction-denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (PCR-DGGE) indicated that Enterococcus and Clostridium were the dominant bacteria in the TDS and PLS consortium. Two strains were successfully isolated from TDS and PLS using a simple method. Based on Bergey’s key identification and 16S rDNA sequencing, they were identified as Clostridium butyricum strain TD and Clostridium acetobutylicum strain PL. The hydrogen content, glucose consumed yield, and hydrogen yield of C. butyricum TD and C. acetobutylicum PL were 545.24 ± 7.31 mL/L, 90 ± 0.41 %, 0.89 ± 0.01 mol H2/mol glucose, and 729.34 ± 22.81 mL/L, 92.77 ± 1.39 %, 1.26 ± 0.05 mol H2/mol glucose, respectively.
Unravelling Spatial-temporal Evolution of Shoreline Changes in Pantai Mek Mas – Pantai Cahaya Bulan, Kelantan, Malaysia
Authors: Wahid Muhammad Zakwan Anas Abd , Osman Mohamed Syazwan
Published: July 2023

Kelantan is a state on Peninsular Malaysia’s East Coast famed for its tropical jungle and seaside areas. Kelantan is a “flood-state” that encounters monsoons and tidal currents. Kelantan was devastated by tsunami-like floods in 2014 where it brought changes on its coastal geomorphology. Using a universal Digital Shoreline Analysis System (DSAS) technique, this study assesses shoreline changes along Kelantan’s coastline between 2013 (before the catastrophic flood) and 2021. A multipronged approach incorporating DSAS via GIS and satellite imagery were used to explore the coastline changes in Kelantan. This study found that Pantai Mek Mas and Pantai Kundur were the most sedimented and the most eroded area were around Pantai Cahaya Bulan, Kota Bharu respectively. The Shoreline Change Envelope (SCE) and Net Shoreline Movement (NSM) analysis concluded that the coastal area has the highest accretion rate of 177.07m/year and the greatest negative distance via NSM of -171.53m/year. The sedimentation along Pantai Mek Mas may happen due to the transportation of sedimentation via river flows from Kelantan River estuary and the degradation of shoreline along Pantai Cahaya Bulan may cause by the concentration of anthropogenic interventions. In conclusion, can be seen that the Kelantan’s coastal area shoreline does progressively proliferate over the past decade and the community vulnerability on the shoreline changes are at risk which comprehensive mitigation is needed to improve its resilience.
Characterization and Germination Performance of Lettuce Sativa by Iron Oxide Nanoparticles Seed Priming
Authors: Malek Raja Nur Ezzatul Husna Raja Abdul , Osman Mohamed Syazwan , Hafiz Nurfarwizah Adzuan
Published: July 2023

Increasing food availability and ensuring food security have become critical issues for nations with varying levels of economic growth. The agricultural sector plays an essential role in these developments. To cater to this, seed priming is a typical method for controlling the hydration of seeds, ensuring that the plant can consume water and proceed to the initial stage of germination. The main objective of this research is to characterise the synthesis of chemical iron oxide nanoparticles (FeNPs) and investigate the germination performance of Lactuca sativa (lettuce). Iron oxide (Fe) is important for various processes in plants, such as photosynthesis. The chemical method was chosen to synthesise the nanoparticles as it can reduce the overall cost, has a high yield, and is safe for the environment. In this experiment, two salt solutions were chosen as the reducing agents for the chemical method. The effect of seed priming with different concentrations of FeNPs (1, 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10 ppm) on seedling growth parameters such as germination rate and average shoot and root length varieties was studied on the fifth and eighth days of seedling development. Seed priming with FeNPs increased the germination rate more than control at all studied concentrations. As a result, among the 5 different concentrations, 1 ppm shows an increase in germination rate, average length of root of Lactuca sativa (lettuce) seeds, and shoot better than the others. The germination rate of 1 ppm is 80%, compared to the control at 70%. Seed priming with FeNPs was nontoxic in comparison to the control, but it decreased the amount of chlorophyll and can be used to increase the nonenzymatic antioxidant capacity during the early phases of Lactuca sativa (lettuce) seedling development. Overall, this study suggests that using FeNPs to prime the seeds of Lactuca sativa (lettuce) can potentially increase crop yield and help keep the demand for food production stable.
Recycled Incineration Bottom Ash and Metakaolin as Sustainable Materials for Cement Replacement in Cementitious Composites
Authors: Amat Roshazita Che , Mohamed Syakirah Afiza , Ibrahim Norlia Mohamad , Rahim Nur Liza , Ahmad Khairel Rafezi , Raischi Marius
Published: July 2023

Study was related to the influence of the concrete properties by using different percentages of metakaolin and fixed percent of incineration bottom ash to partially replace the cement. Cement is a well-known building material and used for the construction in the world. Moreover, the used of metakaolin (MK) and incineration bottom ash (IBA) in this research would give significance to our environment as it can reduce the usage of cement in concrete. By using bottom ash, it could reduce the land filling space. The X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) test was used to determine the chemical composition of IBA and MK. Four series of concrete have been examined, including control, IBA and MK were used as partial replacement for cement at 10%IBA + 10%MK, 10%IBA + 15%MK and 10%IBA + 20%MK of concrete mixes by volume. The curing period for the samples is 7 days and 28 days. To determine the properties of concrete, the tests such as slump test, density test, water absorption test, pulse velocity test, rebound hammer test and compression test were performed. The results proved that the strength development of 10%IBA + 10%MK concrete sample shows the highest compressive strength after 28 days of curing.
The Effect of Concrete Mix Incorporating Different Percentage of Dolomite Fines
Authors: Rahim Mustaqqim Abdul , Ivin Chan , Ibrahim Norlia Mohamad , Ayob Afizah , Anuar Shamilah Anudai , Bawadi Nor Faizah , Rahim Nur Liza , Shahidan Shahiron , Zuki Sharifah Salwa Mohd , Ahmad Ahmad Nur Aizat
Published: July 2023

Since the cost of cement increases and the pollution to environment due to greenhouse effect are becoming more serious year by year, thus, dolomite fines subjected to replace the cement in concrete mix as it has lower cost compared to cement. In this research, the replacement of cement with dolomite fines carried out in this study is 0%, 5%, 10%, 15% and 25%. The grade of concrete a designed to be 30. A total of 45 units of 150 mm x 150 mm x 150 mm concrete cube and 30 units of cylindrical concrete sample with diameter of 150 mm and height of 300 mm designed in this study. The properties of concrete sample in terms of compressive strength, splitting tensile strength, ultra-pulse velocity and rebound hammer test for various percentage replacement are determined in this study. The tests on concrete sample carried out at the age of 7-days and 28-days. Overall, its shows that 10 % replacement of cement with dolomite fines provided the highest strength to the concrete in terms of compressive strength and splitting tensile strength.
Development and implementation of a methodology for National Wastewater Surveillance System of SARS-CoV-2 in Romania
Authors: Prangate R , Deák Gy , Matei M , Boboc M , Holban E , Amat Roshazita Che
Published: July 2023

SARS-CoV-2 is a pathogenic coronavirus and has caused acute respiratory diseases worldwide. Over time, numerous research studies have proved the benefits of environmental surveillance through monitoring the wastewater. During the COVID-19 public health emergency, several countries have conducted studies to detect viral RNA from SARS-CoV-2 in wastewater. Also, several countries have developed a National Wastewater Surveillance System of SARS-CoV-2, currently it is also being implemented in Romania. The aim of this research is to develop, in line with the already existing volume of information, a methodology for the processing and analysis of wastewater samples for SARS-CoV-2 and to highlight methods for sample preparation (these methods are not standardised). In addition, we summarize current knowledge on recent advances and applicability of SARS-CoV-2 virus monitoring in wastewater as a tool for surveillance of COVID-19.
A flexible and transparent pliers shaped antenna for ultra-wideband applications
Authors: Zhang Chenyu , Guo Jiaqi , Lian Shilin , Chi Zongtao , Sun Zhongsen , Zheng Yu , Sun Bin , Liu Tian
Published: July 2023

Flexible transparent antennas have broad potential applications in wireless communication and RF energy harvesting, providing visualization, small size, and integration functions for electronic devices. The use of optically transparent materials is an essential direction in the development of flexible transparent antennas. In this paper, a flexible and transparent antenna is designed by indium tin oxide material and photolithography process, which is suitable for wideband communication field. The broadband characteristics of the antenna are realized by using irregular slots and rectangular microstrip lines on the ground plane. The antenna operates in the frequency range of 1.73–20 GHz with a relative bandwidth of 168%, which is suitable for ultra-wideband (UWB) applications. The antenna has a compact structure and the relative size of 0.33 λ
0 × 0.28 λ
0. The measured results of the antenna are in good agreement with the simulated results, and the bending and folding tests show that the antenna has good mechanical flexibility and can cover the surface of irregular objects. This pliers-shaped antenna is applicable to a variety of UWB and wireless applications, such as LTE, Wi Max, 5G network, IoT, WIFI, mobile phone keys, and mobile payment.
Management of an unintentional enoxaparin overdose: A case report and literature review
Authors: Zhou Florian N , Gellatly Rochelle M
Published: July 2023

Purpose

The aim of this article is to describe a case in which protamine was used for a low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) overdose and present an up-to-date review of the literature on the management of LMWH overdose in adults.

An unintentional administration of enoxaparin 900 mg occurred in a 73-year-old man with coronavirus disease 2019–related pulmonary embolism. Management of the overdose included a protamine bolus followed by an infusion. Anti–factor Xa levels and activated partial thromboplastin time were monitored. Anti–factor Xa levels declined in a linear fashion irrespective of protamine administration. No bleeding or further thrombotic complications occurred in the patient. A review of the literature revealed that the optimal strategy to treat an LMWH overdose is unknown, with treatment of overdoses ranging from clinical observation to aggressive protamine dosing in reported cases. Although protamine effectively neutralizes unfractionated heparin, it is unable to completely reverse LMWH activity and has variable effects on laboratory measures of LMWH anticoagulant activity.

Conclusion

The current case report provides additional data to previous literature suggesting that protamine may have a limited effect in decreasing anti–factor Xa levels in LMWH overdose. Continued reporting on the management of LMWH overdoses is warranted to clarify the optimal treatment strategy.
Deficiency in the neural cell adhesion molecule 2 (NCAM2) reduces axonal levels of beta-site amyloid precursor protein cleaving enzyme 1 (BACE1), affects axonal organization in the hippocampus, and leads to behavioral deficits
Authors: Sah Saroj , Keable Ryan , Pfundstein Grant , Clemens Kelly J , Begg Denovan , Schachner Melitta , Leshchyns’ka Iryna , Sytnyk Vladimir
Published: July 2023

The neural cell adhesion molecule 2 (NCAM2) regulates axonal organization in the central nervous system via mechanisms that have remained poorly understood. We now show that NCAM2 increases axonal levels of beta-site amyloid precursor protein cleaving enzyme 1 (BACE1), a protease that regulates axonal guidance. In brains of NCAM2-deficient mice, BACE1 levels are reduced in hippocampal mossy fiber projections, and the infrapyramidal bundle of these projections is shortened. This abnormal axonal organization correlates with impaired short-term spatial memory and cognitive flexibility in NCAM2-deficient male and female mice. Self-grooming, rearing, digging and olfactory acuity are increased in NCAM2-deficient male mice, when compared with littermate wild-type mice of the same sex. NCAM2-deficient female mice also show increased self-grooming, but are reduced in rearing, and do not differ from female wild-type mice in olfactory acuity and digging behavior. Our results indicate that errors in axonal guidance and organization caused by impaired BACE1 function can underlie the manifestation of neurodevelopmental disorders, including autism as found in humans with deletions of the NCAM2 gene.
EEG measurement for the effect of perceptual eye position and eye position training on comitant strabismus
Authors: Chen Yuzhen , You Weicong , Hu Yijun , Chu Hang , Chen Xiaogang , Shi Wei , Gao Xiaorong
Published: July 2023

One of the clinical features of comitant strabismus is that the deviation angles in the first and second eye positions are equal. However, there has been no report of consistency in the electroencephalography (EEG) signals between the 2 positions. In order to address this issue, we developed a new paradigm based on perceptual eye position. We collected steady-state visual evoked potentials (SSVEPs) signals and resting-state EEG data before and after the eye position training. We found that SSVEP signals could characterize the suppression effect and eye position effect of comitant strabismus, that is, the SSVEP response of the dominant eye was stronger than that of the strabismus eye in the first eye position but not in the second eye position. Perceptual eye position training could modulate the frequency band activities in the occipital and surrounding areas. The changes in the visual function of comitant strabismus after training could also be characterized by SSVEP. There was a correlation between intermodulation frequency, power of parietal electrodes, and perceptual eye position, indicating that EEG might be a potential indicator for evaluating strabismus visual function.
Haemodynamic gain index and heart failure incidence- Prognostic and preventive value
Authors: Vainshelboim Baruch , Myers Jonathan
Published: July 2023

Aims

Heart failure (HF) is a non-curable, life-threatening condition, characterized by impaired haemodynamic function and poor survival. This study aimed to assess the association between haemodynamic gain index (HGI) and HF incidence in men.

Methods and results

Exposure was HGI, [(HRpeak*SBPpeak) − (HRrest*SBPrest)]/(HRrest*SBPrest) measured from treadmill exercise testing in 5539 men aged 59 ± 11.5 years who were free from HF at baseline. The outcome was the incidence of HF. Cox hazard models adjusted for established risk factors were analysed for the association between HGI and HF. During 14.3 ± 6 years of follow-up, 297 cases of HF occurred (average annual incidence rate 3.7 events per 1000 person-years) and average HGI was 1.6 ± 0.7 bpm/mmHg. In a continuous model, every one unit higher in HGI was associated with a 44% [hazard ratio 0.56, 95% confidence interval (0.45–0.69), P < 0.001] lower risk of HF incidence. In a categorical model, compared with those in quartile-4 (HGI > 2.0), those in quartile-3 (HGI 1.51-2.0), quartile-2 (HGI 1.05-1.5), and quartile-1 (HGI < 1.05) exhibited 70%, 220%, and 280% higher risks for developing HF, respectively (P trend < 0.001).

Conclusion

HGI was found to be a strong predictor of HF incidence in men, supporting its prognostic value. Higher HGI was independently associated with lower risk of HF incidence, while low HGI could serve as a prognostic risk factor for HF. Integrating HGI in the screening and early detection paradigm and referring individuals with low HGI to exercise rehabilitation could potentially enhance public health and prevention strategies against HF.
Genetic variants in melanogenesis proteins TYRP1 and TYR are associated with the golden rhesus macaque phenotype
Authors: Peterson Samuel M , Watowich Marina M , Renner Lauren M , Martin Samantha , Offenberg Emma , Lea Amanda , Montague Michael J , Higham James P , Snyder-Mackler Noah , Neuringer Martha , Ferguson Betsy
Published: July 2023

Nonhuman primates (NHPs) are vital translational research models due to their high genetic, physiological, and anatomical homology with humans. The “golden” rhesus macaque (Macaca mulatta) phenotype is a naturally occurring, inherited trait with a visually distinct pigmentation pattern resulting in light blonde colored fur. Retinal imaging also reveals consistent hypopigmentation and occasional foveal hypoplasia. Here, we describe the use of genome-wide association in 2 distinct NHP populations to identify candidate variants in genes linked to the golden phenotype. Two missense variants were identified in the Tyrosinase-related protein 1 gene (Asp343Gly and Leu415Pro) that segregate with the phenotype. An additional and distinct association was also found with a Tyrosinase variant (His256Gln), indicating the light-colored fur phenotype can result from multiple genetic mechanisms. The implicated genes are related through their contribution to the melanogenesis pathway. Variants in these 2 genes are known to cause pigmentation phenotypes in other species and to be associated with oculocutaneous albinism in humans. The novel associations presented in this study will permit further investigations into the role these proteins and variants play in the melanogenesis pathway and model the effects of genetic hypopigmentation and altered melanogenesis in a naturally occurring nonhuman primate model.