bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The processing methods and total phenol content of some of West Sumatra’s traditional beverages
Authors: Putri Nela Eska , Novita Rilma , Utama Rozi Satria
Published: October 2022

West Sumatra is recognized for having various traditional beverages that can boost physical stamina. Farmers drink them to increase their energy levels after working all day. The health advantages of these beverages are producing rich nutrients and improving secondary metabolites, such as phenol compounds that naturally exist in plants as the beverages’ raw material. This study aimed to investigate steps to prepare West Sumatra’s traditional beverages and their total phenol. The research began with observing beverage samples collected from various locations. The next step was testing the total phenol in the drinks. Five traditional beverage varieties were chosen from Payakumbuh City and Limapuluh Kota Regency by considering a number of factors: (1) how common these beverages were in the community, (2) how freely they were sold, (3) how quickly they were delivered, and (4) how widely they were distributed throughout West Sumatra. These beverages were young coconut drink,aia niro(sap drink), sugarcane juice,kahwa daundrink, andteh talua(egg tea).Kahwa daunis made from coffee plant leaves dried by heating, smoking, or roasting. Sugarcane juice is produced by crushing sugarcane stalks and filtering the liquid.Aia nirois obtained by extracting the male fruits of palm stems from flower bunches. Meanwhile,teh taluais produced with blended egg yolks, filtered hot tea water, sugar, and lime water. The results showed that total phenol content in young coconut,aia niro, sugarcane juice,kahwa daun, andteh taluabeverages were 47.86, 84.94, 422.95, 508.52, and 1489.75 mg gallic acid equivalent/L, respectively.
An endemic plant species of East Java, Smilax nageliana A.DC (Smilacaceae)
Authors: Sofiah S , Hakim L , Indriyani S , Robiansyah I
Published: October 2022

Smilax nageliana A.DC (Smilacaceae) is an endemic plant species confined to Ranu Darungan and Mt. Kawi in East Java, Indonesia. The species was last collected in 1980 and is not known to be present at ex situ collections. In the present study, we conducted a field survey in the natural habitats of the species to provide updated information on morphological and ecological characteristics and to evaluate the presence of S. nageliana species, including habitat preferences. Using a focused survey method, 307 mature individuals of S. nageliana were recorded growing in Ranu Darungan and Mt. Kawi. The morphological character especially in color of the fruit, that found in dark green, while the previous time it was dark purple to black. The ecological character of the S. nageliana habitat was different from the previous time, where today was found at an altitude of 670 m above sea level (masl). In Ranu Darungan, the population was found at an elevation range of 670-1200 m, while in Mt. Kawi, the population grows from 1100-1400 masl This plant grows in places with high relative humidity ranges from 52%-90% and moderate temperatures ranging from 21°C-27.7°C.
Hydroponic Box Design with an IoT Monitoring System
Authors: Caesarendra W , Ramadhan Y R , Harmailis  , Pranoto K A , Wijaya G D
Published: October 2022

Hydroponics is a choice for people who wish to plant various types of plants that can be consumed daily by the growers. In addition, hydroponics is one method of growing crops on a small area of land so that it is highly suitable for cultivation in urban areas. However, this system has several shortcomings, particularly how hydroponics requires a controlled environment, especially in monitoring temperature and humidity. Temperature and humidity need to be monitored and controlled to avoid reducing the quality of the plants and prevent them from withering. Therefore, aBlynk-based nutrition monitoring system (IoT) is needed to save time. This IoT system is built using a NodeMCU ESP8266 microcontroller which is supported by internet access.
Identification, Characterization, and Conservation of Sweet Potato Germplasm (Ipomoea batatas L.) in West Sumatera Production Center
Authors: Sembiring Ngakumalem , Hardaningsih Wiwik , Anidarfi  , Illahi Ayu Kurnia
Published: October 2022

Sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas L.) is an important food crop in West Sumatra and potentially develops in suitable land conditions to produce various snack food industries. As one of the sweet potato production centers in Indonesia, West Sumatra has a very high diversity of germplasm. Unfortunately, the information on this diversity is not yet available. In fact, this information is pivotal to develop and produce new high-yielding sweet potato varieties. This study characterized 109 sweet potato accessions from four sweet potato production centers in West Sumatra. To find out more about the differences in each sweet potato accession, molecular identification and characterization were carried out. The second year of the research was a follow-up study to obtain (1) molecular information about the genetic diversity of sweet potatoes in the West Sumatra production centers by using the RAPD technique, (2) the collections of local varieties of sweet potato with potentially superior varieties and genetic sources of several traits or important characters, and (3) a database of kinship/genetic similarity of sweet potato varieties. The results have shown that 79 of 80 morphological characterization varieties have genetic differences. The dendrogram denotes that the accessions vary with a coefficient between 0.15 - 0.20 and are classified into 7 groups with a range of 2-38 accessions.
Into the Database of Bencoolen Odonata: Synthesis of Two Years Dragonfly Survey in Bengkulu Province
Authors: Janra Muhammad N. , Gusman David , Singkam Abdul R. , Susanto Agus , Yatap Haryanto , Fahrudin Ading , Andriyansyah Faizal , Prameswara Atet , Melian Mexi , Herwina Henny
Published: October 2022

Bengkulu, as part of Sumatra, receives less attention for its odonatological aspect during the current advance of life science. Historical records on Odonata were contributed by many foreign researchers from Dutch colonial era, including accounts provided by Lieftinck and Ris. In order to compile Odonata database for Bengkulu, there have been conducted dragonfly surveys from two years ago at some representative sites in this province. Conservation area of Seluma in the southern Bengkulu was visited in 2019 for two weeks survey, while conservation area of Lemo Nakai was surveyed in 2020 for the same work duration. Random survey and continuous citizen science have been performed at Bengkulu City to further the database from human impacted area. Thirty-five species were recorded from Seluma, thirty-nine were from Lemo Nakai and ten species were observed to exist within the human impacted area in Bengkulu City. In total, there were total 52 dragonfly species recorded within the administrative boundary of Bengkulu Province which more than half of historical Odonata records for this province. Thirty-one species belonged to Anisoptera (true dragonflies) and twenty-one species are grouped into Zygoptera (damselflies). Some noteworthy records are highlighted in this paper, such as the rare Dysphaea dimidiata (Euphaeidae), Anax panybeus (Aeshnidae) and Orthetrum schneideri (Libellulidae); Sumatran endemic Heliocypha angusta angusta (Chlorocyphidae) and Megalogomphus sumatranus (Gomphidae); as well as the observation of three Aeshnid species within human settlement in Bengkulu City. Further details on prominent Odonata species were also outlined along with their significances.
Analysis of Land Use Land Cover Change in Protected Areas Againts Spatial Planning in East Luwu
Authors: Fitrian Eltrit Bima , Boro Wona Grace
Published: October 2022

Over time, land use in East Luwu Regency, South Sulawesi, Indonesia has undergone changes, both to meet development needs due to population growth and to meet the economic needs of the community. The regional regulation of East Luwu Regency concerning the spatial plan of East Luwu Regency in 2010-2030 has established a protected area as part of the regional spatial plan of East Luwu Regency. To monitor changes in land use, remote sensing is one that can be used. It offers a variety of benefits in LULC (Land Use and Land Cover) study. This study utilizes remote sensing data and GIS software to analyze land cover in East Luwu Regency, South Sulawesi, Indonesia with the aim of (1) evaluating the suitability of existing land use against the regional spatial plan of East Luwu Regency (2) knowing the factors that influence change in land use. This research is a non-experimental research type. The type of data used is secondary data. The method used is the spatial analysis method by conducting an overlay analysis between the 2019 land use map and the East Luwu Regency spatial plan map using ArcGIS 10.3 software. The results showed that there were 36.068,106 Ha of land use that were not in accordance with the regional spatial plan and 32.2056,203 Ha of land use that were in accordance with the regional spatial plan of a total of 358.124,309 Ha planned for protected areas. Most of the land use in the protected area is in accordance with the spatial plan, which is 89.92%, while the land use that is not in accordance with the spatial plan is 10.07%. Factors that influencing land use change in protected areas are population growth, increasing economic needs and lack of socialization to the community.
The Effects of the Polarity and Molecular Dynamic Energy of Bamboo Activated Carbon on the Degumming Process of Calophyllum inophyllum Oil
Authors: Syahruddin Syahruddin , Wardana I.N.G. , Widhiyanuriyawan Denny , Yuliati Lilis
Published: October 2022

Modified bamboo activated carbon (BAC) was added to non-edible Calophyllum inophyllum oil in a degumming process. The effects of its polarity and molecular dynamic energy on the degumming process were evaluated using characterizations and hyperChem software simulation. It was found that BAC acquired positive surface charge, polar characteristic, and mesoporous structures. The addition of BAC in the degumming process resulted in sufficient molecular dynamic energy (108.83 kcal/mol at 353K) as simulated by hyperChem, playing a role in facilitating successful dephospholipidation. Negatively charged oxygen around the hydrophilic phosphate head group of phospholipids was induced by BAC. The force exerted helped to loosen bonds around the polar head group. Interaction between BAC and polar water molecules also occurred, facilitating more hydrolysis reaction. These actions led to a higher possibility of phosphate head group removal off the phospholipid molecules. Consequently, there were large decreases in phosphorus, magnesium, and calcium concentrations along with small improvements in viscosity and calorific value in the degummed oil.
The Design of a Red Cracker (Kerupuk Merah) Dough Mixing Machine in the Development of the Small Industry in Lima Puluh Kota Regency
Authors: Melly Sandra , Harni Mimi , Ernita Yuni , Herdian Fithra , Batubara Fani Yuliana
Published: October 2022

Kerupuk merah is a type of crackers made of flour, and it isred in color. It is a type of snacks used as complementary foods, and it can add more taste and aesthetic value on the main dish. It is a unique local product. In West Sumatra, a kerupuk merah industrial center can be found in Piladang, Akabiluru District, Lima Puluh Kota Regency. The production of this cracker is still performed manually, raising major concerns with production capacity and hygiene. The capacity of kerupuk merah production is determined by the dough mixing process (the first process). This process involves the use of a rectangular wooden box and man power from 3 to 4 people for kneading. The production capacity is 500 kg of dough/day or 56–63 kg/hour. The dough mixing process is performed 1–2 times/week. The data above reflect that the production process of kerupuk merah is energy- and time-consuming, thereby reducing the quantity and quality of the production. The design of a dough mixing machine is a solution to this problem. The dough mixer drum is designed in length, width, and height of 80 cm, 80 cm, and 60 cm, respectively. The optimum capacity of the dough mixer drum in each mixing process at the speed of 27.2 rpm and mixing rate of 906.34 kg/h is 150–200 kg. The mixing machine designed is food-safe because it is made of stainless steel. This invention may increase the industrial production capacity of kerupuk merah, save the kneading time, and improve the hygiene of the production, allowing the business to be developed.
Dangke: Local Indigenous Cheese from Enrekang, South Sulawesi Indonesia
Authors: Yusuf Muhammad , Nur Fitriani UA , Syahriati  , Saleh Rahmawati , Tasir  , Syamsuar
Published: October 2022

Dangke is a traditional food that tastes similar to cheese, but its texture and flavor are similar to tofu that is white to yellowish. Dangke is produced by people in South Sulawesi, especially the duri massenrempulu ethnic community, Indonesia. In this article, processing techniques, how to present dangke when consumed, and packaging techniques, volatile compounds, and biological activities related to dangke health benefits for the body are explored. The descriptive qualitative and quantitative research method was used to explore processing techniques and bioactive compounds in dangke. Observation and documentation were conducted to collect primary data. Instrumental analysis using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) method is used to determine the bioactive compounds. Dangke is a traditional and straight forward fermented food made from buffalo milk and cow’s milk as an essential ingredient, with pineapple juice and papain enzymes in papaya sap. Therefore, this food is famous for its unique texture, taste, and flavor produced by the fermentation component. Still, this food has nutritional value content that is beneficial for health, such as linoleic acid, palmitic acid, stearic acid, and oleic acid, to be used as functional foods. In this article, the origin of dangke, its method of processing, and the scientific perspectives are discussed.
Bioaccumulation of Heavy Metals in Polymesoda erosa in the Batanghari River, Jambi Province
Authors: Yanova Shally , Jalius  , Rozi Syamsyida , Laksmana Indra , Syelly Rosda
Published: October 2022

The water quality of the Batanghari River in Jambi Province has been categorized as polluted because it contains heavy metal contents, such as Pb, Mn, Cd, and Hg. One of the river biotas that become local people’s favorite and can accumulate heavy metals is Polymesoda erosa mussels. This research aimed to investigate and analyze the heavy metals contained in mussels in the Batanghari by using AAS and ICP methods. The results showed that the average content of lead metals (Pb) in Polymesoda erosa in Point A was 5.93 mg/kg while in Point B was 13.5 mg/kg. Mussels with such contents of Pb metal are not safe to consume because the contents exceed the threshold of SNI 7387:2009 with a maximum limit of Pb at 1.5 mg/kg. Meanwhile, the average content of manganese metal (Mn) in Polymesoda erosa in Point A was 89.24 mg/kg, while in Point B was 169.85 mg/kg. These numbers also exceed the standard threshold of manganese metal quality for fish by 20 mg/kg based on the Turkish Guideline. The average concentration of Cd metals and Hg metals in Polymesoda erosa in Point A was 0.04 mg/kg and 0.122 mg/kg, respectively; while in Point B was 0.05 mg/kg and 0.169 mg/kg, respectively. The concentrations of Cd and Hg metals do not exceed the threshold and are safe to consume. However, since Pb and Mn metals have exceeded the threshold and are not safe to consume, the Polymesoda erosa mussels in the Batanghari are still not safe to consume.
Utilization of Natural Zeolite as Emission Filter in Catalytic Converter of Diesel Engine
Authors: Hamid Abdul , Wilujeng Auliana Diah , Fatah Misbakhul , Abdullah Mohammad , Rohman Ainur , Rohmah Faizatur , Annafiyah
Published: October 2022

The performance of natural zeolites in a catalytic converter to reduce the emission contents of diesel engine was studied in this research. Diesel engines are engines that use a high compression ratio to carry out a combustion process that will produce high contents of carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and sulfur oxide (SO2) in diesel engine exhaust gases. One solution to reduce the contents of exhaust gas compounds in diesel engines is to use catalytic converter technology. In this study, the catalytic converter used natural zeolite as an emission filter. The catalytic converter was designed in the form of a pipe made from iron plates and hollow balls that were used as natural zeolite holders. A diesel engine emission test was conducted using a gas analyzer with engine speed variations. The results show the highest reduction efficiency in the emission contents of diesel engine (carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and sulfur dioxide (SO2)) of 46.14%, 22.77%, and 90.56%, respectively.
Chao Teri: The Traditional Fish Fermentation from South Sulawesi, Indonesia
Authors: Syahriati  , Nur Fitriani UA , Yusuf Muhammad , Saleh Rahmawati , Luthfiah  , Sumarni
Published: October 2022

Chao fish is a traditional product of the Bugis-Makassar ethnic, which is processed from anchovy fermentation. Chao teri production center is in Pangkep regency of South Sulawesi Province, especially in Liukang Topabiring and Labbakkang subdistricts. In this area, Chao fish is a complement to side dishes flavored with chilies and onions, and consumed with pickled mangoes and cucumbers. The fermentation process for approximately two weeks. Characteristics of fish Chao products are light brown or pink, slightly sour and salty taste, distinctive flavor, and has a paste-shaped texture. The descriptive qualitative and quantitative research method was used to explore processing techniques and volatile compounds in Chao teri. Observation and documentation were conducted to collect primary data. Instrumental analysis using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry with Solid Phase Micro-Extraction (GC-MS SPME) method is used to determine the volatile compounds. Chao teri can be made from anchovy and shrimp. Chemical characteristics of Chao teri after 2 weeks fermentation obtained pH 6.35, lactic acid 1.20%, and protein 21.15%. The results of the GC-MS SPME analysis produced 73 volatile compounds. The compounds are 31 hydrocarbons,12 alcohols, 9 aldehydes, 8 ketones, 4 esters, 2 organic acids, 1 furan, and 6 other compounds. The dominant types of amino acids found in Chao teri products are glutamic acid, leucine, aspartic acid, and lysine. In this article, the origin of Chao teri, its method of processing, and the scientific perspectives are discussed.
Determination of herbal combinations based on mucoadhesive properties
Authors: Lestari E D P , Widyarti S , Sumitro S B
Published: October 2022

Mucoadhesive properties of herbs are the herb’s ability to strongly interact or penetrate in binding to mucin components in the mucus. The oral preparation of polyherbal made for therapeutic purposes must have a mucoadhesive capability. This in vitro study aims to determine herbal combinations that have a potential stable interaction with MUC2. The screening of 10 herbal namely, a flower of tembelekan (Lantana camara), rosela (Hibiscus sabdariffa), and asam jawa (Tamarindus indica); rind of jeruk nipis (Citrus aurantifolia); leaf of sirih merah (Piper crocatum), kelor (Moringa oleifera), and meniran hijau (Phyllanthus niruri); rhizome of kencur (Kaempferia galanga), temulawak (Curcuma xanthorrhiza), and jahe (Zingiber officinale) based on the changes in MUC2 viscosity, interaction percentage and absorption percentage. Kencur, rosela, kelor, and meniran hijau maintains the viscosity. Therefore, the interaction process occurs without significantly changing the physicochemical properties of the mucin. While the other herbs, especially jeruk nipis, tembelekan dan asam jawa, caused an increased viscosity of MUC2. Kencur or temulawak can also reduce the possibility of asam jawa changing the viscosity of mucin. Based on these results, we recommend kencur-temulawak mix or kencur-asam jawa mix as a polyherbal because both have a positive interaction percentage value that indicates an additional percentage of precipitated mucin compared to pure mucin (MUC2).
Decision Making on the Renewable Energy Penetration in Malaysia via SWOT-PESTLE Analysis: Hydrogen Fuel Cell and Solar Photovoltaic Thermal Technology
Authors: Mohd Mokhtar M A , Wan Mohamed Zuri W N S , Mohd Rasid N I , Ahmad Asmadi A , Abdul Manaf N
Published: October 2022

Malaysia is actively working to move towards renewable energy (RE) generation for sustainable growth. Hydrogen fuel cell (HFC) and solar photovoltaic thermal (PVT) feature emerging RE technologies that can supersede conventional power generation performance. HFC and PVT utilize renewable resources, which are hydrogen, oxygen and sunlight, to produce electricity without compromising the environment. However, no in-depth evaluation has been conducted to assist the decision-making of Malaysia’s HFC and PVT technology penetration. This study provides decisions on the feasibility and viability of HFC and PVT based on the Strength, Weakness, Opportunities, Threat (SWOT) and Political, Economic, Social, Technological, Legal, Environment (PESTLE) analyses. Based on the SWOT-PESTLE analysis, PVT exhibits great potential in Malaysia’s RE portfolio compared to HFC. Technology readiness and social acceptance are the merits of PVT diffusion in Malaysia. Nevertheless, this preliminary decision entails validation from the industries and experts to underpin the shorthand assessment of the present work
Synthesis of bio-hydrogen supply network via graph-theoretic approach coupled with Monte Carlo simulation model
Authors: Lo S L Y , Kong K G H , Tang M F , Sunarso J , How B S
Published: October 2022

The shift from fossil fuels-derived hydrogen (grey or brown hydrogen) to renewable energy-derived hydrogen (green hydrogen) production is essential to achieve Sustainable Development Goal 7 (SDG7) which aims to ensure the accessibility to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy. One of the renewable energy sources that have been extensively studied is the biomass-derived energy source. The abundance of palm oil mill effluent (POME) produced annually in Malaysia, poses a unique potential of them being utilized as an alternative renewable feedstock for biohydrogen production. Therefore, this project aims to synthesize an optimal bio-hydrogen supply network via the integration of graph-theoretic approach and Monte Carlo simulation model where palm oil mills serve as hydrogen sources, while the ammonia plants serve as hydrogen sinks. Monte Carlo simulation was performed for the top three ranked bio-hydrogen supply networks extracted from the P-graph model. The uncertainties incorporated in the Monte Carlo simulation model are natural gas price and hydrogen price. Using Sarawak as the case study, it was found that the first ranked solution extracted from the P-graph model had the higher mean NPV value of USD 1,202.12 million.
Experimental Studies on Transesterification of Mango (Mangifera indica) Seed Kernel Butter for Biodiesel Production
Authors: Narayanasamy G , Padmesh TNP , Krishnan S
Published: October 2022

This research study involves transesterification of mango seed kernel butter using methanol as solvent and Tetra Hydro Furan (THF) was used as co-solvent in converting biodiesel. High density and higher acid value in biodiesel cause less thermal efficiency in the engine. The percentage yield of biodiesel has been studied under various parameters such as the molar ratio of methanol: oil, type of alkali catalyst and catalyst concentration (%). As the significant results, the highest biodiesel yield% was attained using the molar ratio of methanol to mango seed oil at 7:1 using sodium hydroxide as alkali catalyst with the catalyst concentration of 1.0% and THF co-solvent. The maximum %yield obtained was 90.79%. The produced biodiesel was characterized by Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS). The properties of biodiesel were analysed, such as freezing point, acid value, saponification value, density, and specific gravity with the respective values of 15, 0.85 mg/g, 70.13 mg/g, 788 kg/m3, and 0.788, 11 fatty acid methyl esters were found in different concentrations. Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) has been used as a statistical method for optimization to validate the results obtained. The biodiesel results met the ASTM-D6751 and EN14214 standards for use as a working fluid.
Kinetic analysis for catalytic co-pyrolysis of palm kernel shell and plastic waste mixtures with bifunctional HZSM-5 and mussel shell catalyst
Authors: Kumar A N , Chin B L F , Chee A L K
Published: October 2022

The present study is dedicated to investigate the kinetic analysis for catalytic co-pyrolysis of palm kernel shell (PKS) and polyethylene waste (HDPE) mixtures with bifunctional HZSM-5 and mussel shell (MS) catalyst. Artificial neural network (ANN) modeling through 17 models based on the functions of reaction mechanism denoted as chemical reactions, diffusion reactions, nucleation and growth reactions, interfacial phase reactions and power law reactions was used in this study to achieve a suitable order of reaction promoting higher rate of accuracy based on the data achieved. It was found that the 2nd order, 3rd order, anti jander, jander and ginsling were selected as the suitable models out of 17 reaction mechanism kinetic models due to the giving a positive values produced. And also, it was observed that 3rd order reaction mechanism model provided higher activation energy (E
A) and A values for all feedstock used. Comparison between experimental data and predicted data using Logsig-Tansig (LT) and Tansig-Tansig (TT) were carried out and it was observed that the predicted results from ANN showed similar trend as experimental data with minimal error of 0.67%, 6.61%, and 2.46% for PKS, HDPE, and mixture of PKS and HDPE with the presence of MS and HZSM-5 catalyst, respectively. From the kinetic analysis, E
A and A value of PKS, HDPE, and of PKS and HDPE with the presence of bifunctional of HZSM-5/MS catalyst are 196.93 kJ/mol, 388.00 kJ/mol, 147.12 kJ/mol, 3.24×1013 s-1, 6.00×1026 s-1, and 1.72×10-1 s-1, respectively.
Potential of integrating Solid Oxide Fuel Cell based on biomass in power generation in Malaysia: A feasibility study
Authors: Ravi R , Shieela Kalib N , Muchtar A , Rao Somalu M
Published: October 2022

Although many initiatives have been launched to achieve the ambitious Net Zero 2050 target, Malaysia is still struggling to control carbon emissions, particularly from electricity and heat generation. Fortunately, the potential to generate electricity from biomass in Malaysia reduces reliance on fossil fuels for power generation. Combining biomass gasification with a solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) promises sustainable and more efficient performance than the traditional approach. To ensure optimal operation, the biomass-derived fuel should be compatible with the gasification system. A numerical simulation was carried out to gain insight into the feasibility of integrating hybrid gasification (GT) with SOFC based on selected biomass-derived fuels (i) palm oil mill effluent (POME) and (ii) refuse-derived fuel. A detailed anode-based planar SOFC model is developed and adopted into a gasification system that operates with an ideal gas under steady-state conditions. The other components considered in this study are a recuperator, combustor, and high-pressure turbine. A comprehensive energy balance for each stage was prepared to determine the overall performance of the system with higher accuracy. A detailed analysis shows that POME gave better results owing to its higher calorific value, resulting in higher thermal energy production. Reducing the required fuel flow rate has a positive effect on the overall performance compared with increasing the injected air flow rate. Furthermore, reducing the fuel flow rate tends to increase the combined efficiency. The study concludes that the fuel flow rate has a significant impact on the performance of the SOFC-GT hybrid system, particularly on combined efficiency and overall performance.
Decomposition and decoupling analyses of CO2 emissions and economic growth: A comparative study between Malaysia and Vietnam
Authors: Kiwan B , Kalib N S , Muchtar A
Published: October 2022

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Malaysia and Vietnam has managed to show a strong positive growth domestic product (GDP) growth indicator – with both countries recording an average increase of more than 4% annually. However, there was a strong positive correlation between GDP and carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions worldwide. As the impact of climate change becomes more evident, especially in Southeast Asia, it is crucial to assess the relationship between these two indicators caused by gross electricity generation, especially in the post-pandemic period. In this study, we compared the decoupling performance of CO2 emissions and GDP growth between Malaysia and Vietnam. The data for Malaysia and Vietnam were quantified by the decoupling method based on the Tapio decoupling model. The data were then decomposed using the Kaya identity into the driving factors affecting decoupling. This was then used to form the decomposition index using the Logarithmic Mean Divisia Index-I (LMDI-I). Data were generated based on three scenarios: i) 2017-2019, i.e. pre-pandemic, ii) 2019-2020, peri-pandemic and iii) 2021-2025, to predict post-pandemic. In terms of the overall decoupling trend, the study shows that: (1) the change in CO2 emissions in both sovereign states decreased dramatically at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, Malaysia experienced negative change in CO2 emissions, while Vietnam still experienced a positive change. This is due to Vietnam’s slightly higher reliance on coal for power generation than Malaysia. (2) A strong decoupling in the projected decoupling between the change in CO2 emissions and GDP in Vietnam, while the two indicators remain coupled for Malaysia. This is due to Vietnam’s more aggressive policy in the adoption of renewable energy - especially through the mass installation of rooftop photovoltaic systems. In contrast, Malaysian policy remains conservative, emphasising reliability at the cost of a huge year-on-year change in CO2 emissions.
Accelerated Weathering of Limestone Bicarbonate Induced CaCO3 Precipitation in A Mixture of Sand, Fly Ash and CaO
Authors: Chai S Y W , Ngu L H
Published: October 2022

Excessive generation of CO2 and industrial wastes has sparked environmental concerns around the globe. In this research, Accelerated Weathering of Limestone (AWL) process uses calcium carbonate (CaCO3) to capture CO2 from ambient air. It achieved an absorption efficiency of 31.88 %. The calcium bicarbonate effluent produced via AWL is used to precipitate calcium carbonate in lime mortar (LM) mixture containing sand and calcium oxide (CaO) with fly ash, an industrial waste. This helps develop a novel utilization pathway for the respective wastes via production of a novel green construction material termed bicarbonate lime mortar infused with fly ash (BLMFA). The fly ash addition percentage in bicarbonate lime mortar (BLM) mix are 12.12, 17.15 and 21.63 wt.%. This project also studies the effect of curing time (7, 28 and 88 days) on development of BLMFA strength. Experimental results found that at 7 days, the strength of BLMFA (0.44 to 0.48 MPa) is lower than the conventional LM, which has a strength of 0.52 MPa. However, on 88 days, 17.15 wt.% BLMFA achieved a strength of 0.82 MPa, which is 0.060 MPa higher than the conventional LM sample. In addition, BLMFA also possesses high CaCO3 content of 36.7 to 44 wt.% out of the targeted 54.37 wt.% compared to conventional LM, which could only achieve 27.14 wt.% CaCO3. This indicates that infusion of fly ash can enhance the carbonation efficiency of calcium sources to CaCO3. All in all, AWL process and BLMFA precipitation possess the capability to diminish anthropogenic CO2 while beneficially utilizing industrial waste.
Synthesis of Integrated Flower Waste Biorefinery: Optimisation with Economic Consideration
Authors: Chong EHY , Ng DKS , Andiappan V , Ng LY , Shivaprasad P
Published: October 2022

Disposal of flower waste is a major environmental issue especially in India. Improper disposal of flower waste from heritage and cultural activities has resulted in an imbalance natural ecosystem causing water, soil, and air pollution. Hence, it is critical to minimise the amount of flower waste produced on daily basis by converting the flower waste into value-added products. These value-added products can be formed in an integrated flower waste biorefinery. Hence in this work, a systematic optimisation model for the synthesise of an integrated flower waste biorefinery with maximum economic performance is presented.
Model Predictive Control – Sliding Mode Control of a pH system
Authors: Ooi W X , Hermansson A W , Lim C H
Published: October 2022

This paper studies the feasibility of using discrete sliding mode controller (SMC) to achieve offset-free control of nonlinear processes in the presence of disturbances. The performance of the SMC is compared to a multiple model predictive controller (MMPC) studying the ability of set-point tracking using the pH system as a case study. The results presented from the comparison show that SMC can perform offset-free control of a pH system, with the major drawback being slow response as well as oscillation at some pH values. Finally, a design of a combination between MMPC and SMC (MMPC-SMC) is proposed, with MMPC carrying out basic control response while the SMC fulfils the role of eliminating the offset. However, the inaccurate reading in the MATLAB simulation model does not generate the expected results on the pH control. Therefore, the modification on the MATLAB models is required to achieve the improved control system on the offset-free behaviour for the set-point tracking.
Comparative of alginate/graphene oxide and alginate/magnetite graphene oxide aerogel as adsorbents
Authors: Marzuki A S , Mustapa A N , Othman N H , Hanipah S H , Martin Á , Cocero M J
Published: October 2022

Magnetite graphene oxide (MGO) has gained attention as a potential adsorbent in wastewater treatment. In this study, incorporation of MGO into biopolymer matrix and dried by supercritical CO2 to improve the adsorption efficiency is presented. Alginate/MGO aerogel was prepared by blending the MGO with alginate and formed hydrogel by ionic crosslinking through external gelation. The blend ratio of MGO and alginate studied are comprised of 2 and 3 wt%, respectively. The hydrogel was dried by supercritical CO2 at 110 ± 5 bar and 40 °C in 4h. The physical-chemical properties of alginate/MGO adsorbent and its adsorption efficiency via removal of methylene blue (MB) are studied. The sharp curve for 30% weight loss for both types of adsorbents has been shown around 200 °C in TGA correspond to the exothermic peak form in DSC analysis. Alginate/GO and alginate/MGO are stable over temperatures of 300 and 700 °C, respectively. Alginate/GO successfully adsorbed 90% of MB concentration meanwhile the alginate/MGO had removed up to 84% of MB. Another highlighted technique is supercritical CO2 drying which considered as one of the most promising techniques to preserve the structure of aerogel with minimal shrinkage as low as 15% in comparison to ambient drying (50%).
Flexible and ultralight MXene paper as a current collector for microsized porous silicon anode in high-energy lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Wang Jingyan , An Yongling , Shen Hengtao , Man Quanyan , Feng Jinkui
Published: October 2022

Silicon (Si) is a new candidate anode material for lithium-ion batteries. The porous treatment of Si anode has been proved to be effective. In order to improve the interface performance and energy density of batteries, we start from the current collector (CC) and make further improvements. Combined with the advantages of new two-dimensional material MXene in electrochemical aspects, we make MXene replace the traditional Cu foil as CC of Si anode. The prepared MXene paper is both flexible and lightweight. After coating the Si slurry on it, the assembled half cells and 5 V-class full cells can achieve normal lithium-ion intercalation and deintercalation. Moreover, compared with the battery using Cu current collector, the volume expansion of porous silicon in the battery with MXene is further alleviated, and the cycle stability performance is also improved.
Corrosion behaviour of maize husk reinforced aluminium (1070) metal matrix composites in chloride-sulphate solution
Authors: Loto Roland Tolulope , Ajuwaeze Williams Joseph
Published: October 2022

The effect of maize husk (MH) particulates on the corrosion resistance of 1070 aluminium alloy (AA70) matrix at 5% and 15% wt. content, and 150 μm and 300 μm particle size (AA70/MH composites) was studied in 3.5% NaCl, 0.0125 M H2SO4 and 3.5% NaCl/0.0125 M H2SO4 solutions. Potentiodynamic polarization technique, open circuit potential measurement, weight loss analysis, optical microscopy characterization, x-ray fluorescence and x-ray diffractometry were used for the investigation. Results show increase in MH %wt. content and particle size decreases the corrosion rate of AA70/MH composite. Data from potentiodynamic polarization and weight loss analysis shows AA70/MH composite at 15% wt. content and 300 μm particle size exhibited the lowest corrosion values of 0.135 mm y−1, 0.156 mm y−1 and 1.445 mm y−1, and −0.00043 mm y−1, 0.001 04 mm y−1 and 0.00218 mm y−1 in 3.5% NaCl, 0.0125 M H2SO4 and 3.5% NaCl/0.0125 M H2SO4 solutions. Optical representative images of the composites showed the presence of micro-pits on samples from NaCl solution, macro-pits and extensive surface deterioration from H2SO4 solution, and combined localized and total surface deterioration from NaCl-H2SO4 solution. Weight loss plots showed oxide formation significantly influenced the corrosion behavior of the alloys with respect to time. Open circuit potential plots showed AA70/MH composite at 5% wt. content and 150 um particle size was the most electronegative with the highest thermodynamic tendency to corrosion. Significant X-ray diffraction peaks from AA70/MH composite at 15% wt. content and 300 μm particle size showed the presence of corrosion resistant phase compounds of Al2O3 and Al(ZnS2) before and after corrosion.
Mathematical analysis of electromagnetic scattering by dielectric nanoparticles with high refractive indices
Authors: Ammari Habib , Li Bowen , Zou Jun
Published: October 2022

In this work, we are concerned with the mathematical modeling of the electromagnetic (EM) scattering by arbitrarily shaped non-magnetic nanoparticles with high refractive indices. When illuminated by visible light, such particles can exhibit a very strong isotropic magnetic response, resulting from the coupling of the incident wave with the circular displacement currents of the EM fields. The main aim of this work is to mathematically illustrate this phenomenon. We shall first introduce the EM scattering resolvent and the concept of dielectric subwavelength resonances. Then we derive the a priori estimates for the subwavelength resonances and the associated resonant modes. We also show the existence of resonances and obtain their asymptotic expansions in terms of the small particle size and the high contrast parameter. After that, we investigate the enhancement of the scattering amplitude and the cross sections when the resonances occur. In doing so, we develop a novel multipole radiation framework that directly separates the electric and magnetic multipole moments and allows us to clearly see their orders of magnitude and blow-up rates. We prove that at the dielectric subwavelength resonant frequencies, the nanoparticles with high refractive indices behave like the sum of the electric dipole and the resonant magnetic dipole. Some explicit calculations and numerical experiments are also provided to validate our general results and formulas.
Postpartum Hospital Readmissions With and Without Severe Maternal Morbidity Within 1 Year of Birth, Oregon, 2012–2017
Authors: Kaufman Menolly , McConnell K John , Carmichael Suzan L , Rodriguez Maria I , Richardson Dawn , Snowden Jonathan M
Published: October 2022

Postpartum readmissions (PPRs) represent a critical marker of maternal morbidity after hospital childbirth. Most severe maternal morbidity (SMM) events result in a hospital admission, but most PPRs do not have evidence of SMM. Little is known about PPR and SMM beyond the first 6 weeks postpartum. We examined the associations of maternal demographic and clinical factors with PPR within 12 months postpartum. We categorized PPR as being with or without evidence of SMM to assess whether risk factors and timing differed. Using the Oregon All Payer All Claims database, we analyzed hospital births from 2012–2017. We used log-binomial regression to estimate associations between maternal factors and PPR. Our final analytical sample included 158,653 births. Overall, 2.6% (n = 4,141) of births involved at least 1 readmission within 12 months postpartum (808 (19.5% of PPRs) with SMM). SMM at delivery was the strongest risk factor for PPR with SMM (risk ratio (RR) = 5.55, 95% confidence interval (CI): 4.14, 7.44). PPR without SMM had numerous risk factors, including any mental health diagnosis (RR = 2.10, 95% CI: 1.91, 2.30), chronic hypertension (RR = 2.17, 95% CI: 1.85, 2.55), and prepregnancy diabetes (RR = 2.85, 95% CI: 2.47, 3.30), all which were on par with SMM at delivery (RR = 1.89, 95% CI: 1.49, 2.40).
Temporal stability of spatial cytotype structure in mixed-ploidy populations ofCentaurea stoebe
Authors: Mráz Patrik , Španiel Stanislav , Skokanová Katarína , Šingliarová Barbora
Published: October 2022

Spatial segregation of cytotypes reduces the negative effect of frequency-dependent mating on the fitness of minority cytotype(s) and thus allows its establishment and coexistence with the majority cytotype in mixed-ploidy populations. Despite its evolutionary importance, the stability of spatial segregation is largely unknown. Furthermore, closely related sympatric cytotypes that differ in their life histories might exhibit contrasting spatial dynamics over time. We studied the temporal stability of spatial structure at a secondary contact zone of co-occurring monocarpic diploids and polycarpic tetraploids of Centaurea stoebe, whose tetraploid cytotype has undergone a rapid range expansion in Europe and became invasive in North America. Eleven years after the initial screening, we re-assessed the microspatial distribution of diploids and tetraploids and their affinities to varying vegetation-cover density in three mixed-ploidy populations in Central Europe. We found that overall, spatial patterns and frequencies of both cytotypes in all sites were very similar over time, with one exception. At one site, in one previously purely 2x patch, diploids completely disappeared due to intensive succession by shrubby vegetation. The remaining spatial patterns, however, showed the same cytotype clumping and higher frequency of 2x despite subtle changes in vegetation-cover densities. In contrast to the expected expansion of polycarpic tetraploids having higher colonization ability when compared to diploids, the tetraploids remained confined to their former microsites and showed no spatial expansion. Spatial patterns of coexisting diploids and tetraploids, which exhibit contrasting life histories, did not change over more than a decade. Such temporal stability is likely caused by relatively stable habitat conditions and very limited seed dispersal. Our results thus imply that in the absence of a disturbance regime connected with frequent human- or animal-mediated seed dispersal, spatial patterns may be very stable over time, thus contributing to the long-term coexistence of cytotypes.
LargeMetabo: an out-of-the-box tool for processing and analyzing large-scale metabolomic data
Authors: Yang Qingxia , Li Bo , Wang Panpan , Xie Jicheng , Feng Yuhao , Liu Ziqiang , Zhu Feng
Published: October 2022

Large-scale metabolomics is a powerful technique that has attracted widespread attention in biomedical studies focused on identifying biomarkers and interpreting the mechanisms of complex diseases. Despite a rapid increase in the number of large-scale metabolomic studies, the analysis of metabolomic data remains a key challenge. Specifically, diverse unwanted variations and batch effects in processing many samples have a substantial impact on identifying true biological markers, and it is a daunting challenge to annotate a plethora of peaks as metabolites in untargeted mass spectrometry-based metabolomics. Therefore, the development of an out-of-the-box tool is urgently needed to realize data integration and to accurately annotate metabolites with enhanced functions. In this study, the LargeMetabo package based on R code was developed for processing and analyzing large-scale metabolomic data. This package is unique because it is capable of (1) integrating multiple analytical experiments to effectively boost the power of statistical analysis; (2) selecting the appropriate biomarker identification method by intelligent assessment for large-scale metabolic data and (3) providing metabolite annotation and enrichment analysis based on an enhanced metabolite database. The LargeMetabo package can facilitate flexibility and reproducibility in large-scale metabolomics. The package is freely available from https://github.com/LargeMetabo/LargeMetabo.
Alignment-free comparison of metagenomics sequences via approximate string matching
Authors: Chen Jian , Yang Le , Li Lu , Goodison Steve , Sun Yijun
Published: October 2022

Quantifying pairwise sequence similarities is a key step in metagenomics studies. Alignment-free methods provide a computationally efficient alternative to alignment-based methods for large-scale sequence analysis. Several neural network-based methods have recently been developed for this purpose. However, existing methods do not perform well on sequences of varying lengths and are sensitive to the presence of insertions and deletions. In this article, we describe the development of a new method, referred to as AsMac that addresses the aforementioned issues. We proposed a novel neural network structure for approximate string matching for the extraction of pertinent information from biological sequences and developed an efficient gradient computation algorithm for training the constructed neural network. We performed a large-scale benchmark study using real-world data that demonstrated the effectiveness and potential utility of the proposed method.

Availability and implementation

The open-source software for the proposed method and trained neural-network models for some commonly used metagenomics marker genes were developed and are freely available at www.acsu.buffalo.edu/~yijunsun/lab/AsMac.html.

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
AHoJ: rapid, tailored search and retrieval of apo and holo protein structures for user-defined ligands
Authors: Feidakis Christos P , Krivak Radoslav , Hoksza David , Novotny Marian
Published: October 2022

Understanding the mechanism of action of a protein or designing better ligands for it, often requires access to a bound (holo) and an unbound (apo) state of the protein. Resources for the quick and easy retrieval of such conformations are severely limited. Apo–Holo Juxtaposition (AHoJ), is a web application for retrieving apo–holo structure pairs for user-defined ligands. Given a query structure and one or more user-specified ligands, it retrieves all other structures of the same protein that feature the same binding site(s), aligns them, and examines the superimposed binding sites to determine whether each structure is apo or holo, in reference to the query. The resulting superimposed datasets of apo–holo pairs can be visualized and downloaded for further analysis. AHoJ accepts multiple input queries, allowing the creation of customized apo–holo datasets.

Availability and implementation

Freely available for non-commercial use at http://apoholo.cz. Source code available at https://github.com/cusbg/AHoJ-project.

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.