bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ophiorrhiza recurvipetala (Rubiaceae) sp. nov. from Assam, India
Authors: Bhuyan Birina , Baruah Sanjib , Mehmud Selim
Published: March 2021

The new species Ophiorrhiza recurvipetala (Rubiaceae) is described and illustrated from Assam, India. The species is closely allied to Ophiorrhiza ochroleuca Hook.f. by having glabrous stem, glabrous leaves and axillary and terminal inflorescence, but differs in having leaf base attenuate, inflorescence 3–4 cm across, creamy white flowers, peduncle 5–7 cm long and pubescent capsule. Furthermore, the corolla tube of O. recurvipetala is hairy within the whole tube and the corolla lobes are acute at apex and strongly recurved. A detailed description, distribution, ecology, phenology, key to the species of Ophiorrhiza of northeast India and relevant taxonomic notes are provided along with a colour illustration.
Phylogenetic relationships and divergence time estimates in the genus Echinops L. (Asteraceae)
Authors: Şapci Selamoğlu Handan
Published: March 2021

This study focuses on the phylogenetic relationships among taxa within the genus Echinops, in particular the taxa distributed in Turkey, since their systematic characterization and sectional taxonomy have not previously been fully determined. We used sequences of the plastid trnL‐trnF, rbcL, matK and nrDNA ITS gene regions obtained from this study and GenBank to reconstruct phylogenetic relationships among Echinops taxa based on Bayesian inference. In addition, divergence times of taxa within the genus were estimated by the Bayesian method using a relaxed clock model. In the phylogenetic tree, E. acantholepis, an annual species, was first split from all other echinops taxa and this split was estimated to have occurred approximately 19.99 Mya. Next, E. emiliae, a biannual species, separates from the other species, and finally forms a group with the perennial Echinops taxa. We were also to predict differences in the rate of speciation by comparing different gene regions. The results indicate that the number of sections of the genus Echinops distributed in Turkey should be increased from three to five by the addition of the sections Psectra and Acantholepis. Furthermore, it is indicated that some taxa currently treated as subspecies may deserve recognition at the species level. Our results also support previous studies suggesting that it is appropriate to incorporate the monotypic Acantholepis in Echinops and transfer A. orientalis to the genus Echinops under the name E. acantholepis. Consequently, it is concluded that the studied gene regions were significant and informative for resolving phylogenetic relationships among the taxa of Echinops.
Chicago classification version 4.0© technical review: Update on standard high‐resolution manometry protocol for the assessment of esophageal motility
Authors: Fox Mark R. , Sweis Rami , Yadlapati Rena , Pandolfino John , Hani Albis , Defilippi Claudia , Jan Tack , Rommel Nathalie
Published: March 2021

The Chicago Classification v4.0 (CCv4.0) is the updated classification scheme for esophageal motility disorders using metrics from high‐resolution manometry (HRM). A key feature of CCv.4.0 is the more rigorous and expansive protocol that incorporates single wet swallows acquired in different positions (supine, upright) and provocative testing, including multiple rapid swallows and rapid drink challenge. Additionally, solid bolus swallows, solid test meal, and/or pharmacologic provocation can be used to identify clinically relevant motility disorders and other conditions (eg, rumination) that occur during and after meals. The acquisition and analysis for performing these tests and the evidence supporting their inclusion in the Chicago Classification protocol is detailed in this technical review. Provocative tests are designed to increase the diagnostic sensitivity and specificity of HRM studies for disorders of esophageal motility. These changes attempt to minimize ambiguity in prior iterations of Chicago Classification, decrease the proportion of HRM studies that deliver inconclusive diagnoses and increase the number of patients with a clinically relevant diagnosis that can direct effective therapy. Another aim in establishing a standard manometry protocol for motility laboratories around the world is to facilitate procedural consistency, improve diagnostic reliability, and promote collaborative research.
Restrictive allograft syndrome after lung transplantation
Authors: Klouda Timothy , Vargas Sara O. , Midyat Levent
Published: March 2021

Despite recent advances over the past decade in lung transplantation including improved surgical technique and immunotherapy, the diagnosis and treatment of chronic lung allograft dysfunction remains a significant barrier to recipient survival. Aside from bronchiolitis obliterans syndrome, a restrictive phenotype called restrictive allograft syndrome has recently been recognized and affects up to 35% of all patients with CLAD. The main characteristics of RAS include a persistent and unexplained decline in lung function compared to baseline and persistent parenchymal infiltrates on imaging. The median survival after diagnosis of RAS is 6 to 18 months, significantly shorter than other forms of CLAD. Treatment options are limited, as therapies used for BOS are typically ineffective at halting disease progression. Specific medications such as fibrinolytics are lacking large, multicenter prospective studies. In this manuscript, we discuss the definition, mechanism, and characteristics of RAS while highlighting the similarities and differences between other forms of CLAD. We also review the diagnoses along with current and potential treatment options that are available for patients. Finally, we discuss the existing knowledge gaps and areas for future research to improve patient outcomes and understanding of RAS.
Concurrent endurance and resistance training enhances muscular adaptations in individuals with metabolic syndrome
Authors: Moreno‐Cabañas Alfonso , Ortega Juan Fernando , Morales‐Palomo Felix , Ramirez‐Jimenez Miguel , Alvarez‐Jimenez Laura , Mora‐Rodriguez Ricardo
Published: March 2021

The purpose of the study was to determine if concurrent training (endurance and resistance in a single session) elicits leg muscular adaptations beyond the ones obtained by endurance training alone in sedentary individuals with metabolic syndrome (MetS). Sixty‐six MetS individuals (37% women, age 56 ± 7 years, BMI 32 ± 5 kg m−2 and 3.8 ± 0.8 MetS factors) were randomized to undergo one of the following 16‐week isocaloric exercise programs: (i) 4 + 1 bouts of 4 min at 90% of HRMAX of intense aerobic cycling (IAC + IAC group; n = 33), (ii) 4 IAC bouts followed by 3 sets of 12 repetitions of 3 lower‐limb free‐weight exercises (IAC + RT group; n = 33). We measured the effects of training on maximal cycling power, leg press maximum strength (1RM), countermovement jump height (CMJ), and mean propulsive velocity (MPV) at workloads ranging from 10% to 100% of baseline 1RM leg press. After intervention, MetS components (Z‐score) improved similarly in both groups (p = 0.002). Likewise, maximal cycling power during a ramp test improved similarly in both groups (time effect p < 0.001). However, leg press 1RM improved more in IAC + RT than in IAC + IAC (47 ± 5 vs 13 ± 5 kg, respectively, interaction p < 0.001). CMJ only improved with IAC + RT (0.8 ± 0.2 cm, p = 0.001). Leg press MPV at heavy loads (ie, 80%–100% 1RM) improved more with concurrent training (0.12 ± 0.01 vs 0.06 ± 0.02 m s−1, interaction p = 0.013). In conclusion, in unconditioned MetS individuals, intense aerobic cycling alone improves leg muscle performance. However, substituting 20% of intense aerobic cycling by resistance training further improves 1RM leg press, MPV at high loads, and jumping ability while providing similar improvement in MetS components.
SOLVENT EFFECT ON ZERO-VALENT IRON NANOPARTICLES (nZVI) PREPARATION AND ITS THERMAL OXIDATION CHARACTERISTIC
Authors: Boonruam Patiparn , Soisuwan Soipatta , Wattanachai Piyachat , Morillas Héctor , Upasen Settakorn
Published: March 2021

Zero-valent iron (ZVI) nanoparticle exists a nanoscale (1-100 nm) of the iron particle with zero oxidation number. It has acquired considerable attention for its potential to capture the free-electron moieties. The production and storage of ZVI material, however, is challenging because it is relatively unstable. In this research, we aim to study of solvent effects on ZVI preparation and its characterization. The nano-scaled ZVI was synthesized by a chemical reduction method. Iron (III) chloride hexahydrate (FeCl3·6H2O) was as a chemical precursor and sodium borohydride solution (NaBH4) as a reducing agent. Two parameters used in this study were: i) solvent types (ethanol, diethyl ether, and acetone) ii) proportion of solvent and deionized water (4:0, 4:1, and 4:2 by volume). We characterized the physical and chemical properties of the synthesized samples (e.g. particle size and distribution, morphology, and the chemical composition) using various techniques, for example, TEM, UV-Vis spectrophotometer, and XRD. Moreover, we performed a thermal oxidation reaction of synthesized powder samples using DSC and TGA tools. The results show that the nZVI particle formed a spherical shape with the smallest particle size of 39 nm. The solvent type was the key parameter protecting the oxidation reaction during the synthesis process. According to the spherical shape of the synthesized nZVI samples, an estimated specific surface area was also reported. The cubic structure of nZVI particles was estimated at 79-81 wt.%, and almost 20 wt.% was attributed to iron oxide (Fe2O3) cubic phase. The oxidation reaction occurred above 400oC. The minimum enthalpy of thermal oxidation was approximately 1600 J/g. Furthermore, the relation between thermal oxidation enthalpy and nZVI particle sizes were revealed and predicted by the Boltzmann equation.
CATALYTIC ACTIVITY OF VANADIUM OXIDE DOPED WITH PALLADIUM NANOPARTICLES ON OXIDATION OF 5-HYDROXYMETHYLFURFURAL
Authors: Upasen Settakorn , Boonruam Patiparn , Panpranot Joongjai , Soisuwan Soipatta , Praserthdam Piyasan
Published: March 2021

2,5-Furan dicarboxylic acid (FDCA) is a bio-based chemical used as a feedstock for a wide range of industrial applications - particularly the bioplastic industries. It is derived from 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) through a reaction of oxidation using either homogeneous or heterogeneous catalysts. According to the advantages of heterogeneous catalysts, this research aims to seek a novel catalyst type with high selectivity and high activity. We performed an investigation of the synergic effect of palladium nanoparticles and V2O5 catalysts on catalytic oxidation of HMF and physicochemical properties. A commercial vanadium oxide powder (V2O5) was doped with 1 wt.% palladium nanoparticles (Pd NPs). The Pd NPs were prepared by the colloid-chemical reduction method. Two different synthesis processes were performed base on the consequence of the combination of colloid-chemical reduction and immobilization steps, herein stepwise (ST) and simultaneous (SI) process. For the ST process, Pd NPs were reduced and then immobilized on V2O5 powder. During the SI process, the reduction and immobilization steps took place simultaneously. Physical and chemical properties of a prepared catalyst such as morphology, particle size distribution, and chemical structure and composition were characterized using various techniques, e.g. TEM, BET, X-ray diffraction, UV-vis spectrophotometer. It was distinctly found the synergic effect between Pd NPs and V2O5 catalysts on the surface catalytic activity of HMF oxidation and catalytic selectivity. The Pd NPs incorporated catalysts (ST and SI processes) gave catalytic activity at 63%, which are 2-fold in catalytic activity in comparison with bare V2O5 catalysts as well as they were selective to FDCA up to 19-24%. The step of catalyst preparation slightly influenced on catalytic activity and yield of FDCA; however, it did alter particle size distribution of Pd NPs and surface characteristics
STUDY OF WETTING ON THE NON-IMAGE AREA OF OFFSET PRINTING PLATES BY AN ALTERNATIVE ISO-PROPYL ALCOHOL-FREE FOUNTAIN SOLUTION
Authors: Tuan Phung Anh , Nguyen Quang Hung , Quyen Duong Hong , Cao Hong Ha
Published: March 2021

In this study, an alternative aqueous isopropyl alcohol-free fountain solution for sheet-fed offset printing is prepared comprising 5 w/w% McIlvaine's buffer system for pH control, 0.3 w/w% Polysorbate 80 as a surfactant, 1 w/w% magnesium nitrate hexahydrate as a conductivity agent and 10 w/w% ethylene glycol mono-butyl ether as an additional wetting agent. The percentages of each composition are w/w% of active and then adjusted to 100 w/w% by adding distilled water. The contact angles of the obtained fountain solution on non-image areas of three common offset printing plates: CTP plate of Kodak, CTP plate of Huaguang Graphic Co. Ltd (China), and CTP plate of Mylan Printing Media Co. Ltd (Vietnam), range from 10° to 20°.The surface tension, conductivity, pH and viscosity were found to be 30.5 mN/m, 1.45 mS/cm, 4.8, and 1.05 x 10-2 g/cm.s, respectively. In comparison to the commercial fountain solution (KF – Trade Mark (China) containing isopropyl alcohol (IPA), the obtained fountain solution shows similar wettability on the non-image area of the offset printing plate whilst having similar physico-chemical parameters. The results indicate that ethylene glycol mono-butyl ether could be a potential substitute for IPA in fountain solution in offset printing, and the obtained fountain solution displays suitable properties for the offset printing process.
ANALYSIS OF MACHINE AVAILABILITY AT SURFACE-MOUNT TECHNOLOGY (SMT) LINE USING WITNESS SIMULATION
Authors: Mak Kam Sheng , Ab-Samat Hasnida
Published: March 2021

In the competition to excel in the Industrial 4.0 race, companies especially in Semiconductor Industry, strive to attain efficiency by removing process bottlenecks, improving productivity and increasing machine availability during operation. As so, this research was conducted to analyze the machine’s availability based on various preventive maintenance (PM) scheduling. A model was developed in WITNESS 14 Manufacturing Performance Edition software to imitate the Surface-mount Technology (SMT) line in a manufacturing system. The model was build based on a serial layout of five machines which are a screen printer, glue dispenser, chip shooter, pick and place and reflow oven. Then, the simulation was run to study the availability of each machine with relation to different stoppages intervals and duration based on the selected PM schedule. The findings of this project show that PM for an SMT line should be carried out every week with 30 minutes PM duration to achieve high machine availability and minimal machine downtime.
THE EXPERIMENTAL METHOD AND CFD STUDY OF THE BARE HULL FORM OF UNDERWATER VEHICLE AT NEAR SURFACE CONDITION
Authors: Tun Thu Han , Htun Ye Thet
Published: March 2021

Hull form selection, resistance and powering are important in designing underwater vehicle. An underwater vehicle bare hull form is based on the five parameters due to the interaction between the propeller and the hull. When they are running on the surface condition, there will be problems likely as surface vessel, but the main hull of the underwater vehicle is below the waterline with low freeboard. The underwater vehicles are operating with high speed at a high Froude Number. Therefore, the wave making component becomes important in surface resistance. The wave making resistance of the underwater vehicle model at surface condition is analyzed by using CFD tools. Friction component of resistance is calculated by using ITTC’57 correlation line. The flow around the ship’s hull is complicated, so that model experiments are still the most reliable data source on ship resistance determination. The bare hull form of underwater vehicle resistance is based on the model experiments and CFD results. The towing mechanism arrangement should be considered at model. Therefore, towing mechanism is designed for model testing. This paper discusses the towing method and result between model test and CFD. This paper also makes comparison of wave formation Towing tank test and CFD at various speeds. The model was tested with bare hull form of underwater vehicle in the Ship Model Towing Tank at Marine Hydrodynamics Centre, Myanmar Maritime University. CFD analysis is also carried out and the results are compared for surface condition. The three software packages XFLOW, XMESH and XPAN are used for CFD simulations. The comparison of results shows that the coefficient differences are less staggered based on the speed.
FABRICATION AND ELECTROCHEMICAL PERFORMANCE OF LiFePO4/Ga-LLZO/Li ALL-SOLID-STATE LITHIUM BUTTON CELL
Authors: Gimpaya Ruziel Larmae , Botin Shari Ann , Cervera Rinlee Butch
Published: March 2021

An all-solid-state Lithium button cell with Ga-doped Li7La3Zr2O12 (Ga-LLZO) as solid electrolyte, LiFePO4-based as cathode, and Li metal as anode has been successfully fabricated and characterized. The solid electrolyte was first optimized to obtain a high total conductivity. Different compositions of Li7-3xGaxLa3Zr2O12, where x =0, 0.1, 0.2, and 0.3. Li7La3Zr2O12 (LLZO) were synthesized using solid-state reaction and were characterized for its structural, morphological, electrical conductivity properties. XRD patterns of all sintered samples showed that all of the major peaks can be indexed to a cubic-phased garnet LLZO. SEM images revealed a densified sintered samples with relative densities of about 90% for all samples. Among the different studied compositions, the Ga-doped LLZO with x = 0.1 achieved the highest total conductivity of about 2.03 x 10-4 Scm-1 at 25oC, with an activation energy of 0.31 eV. From this solid electrolyte, an all-solid-state Lithium battery, 2032 button cell, was fabricated using LiFePO4-based cathode and Lithium metal as the anode. Charging and discharging characteristics were performed at 1C, 0.5C, and 0.2C rates. The results showed a good retention of coloumbic efficiency even after 50 cycles of charge and discharge. The capacity retention is about 15-20% after 50 cycles. The best performance of the coin cell battery revealed an initial specific discharging capacity of about 140 mAh/g using C/5 rate.
EVALUATING THE EFFICIENCY OF HOUSEHOLD STORMWATER DETENTION SYSTEM
Authors: King Ngu Johnny Ong , Seng Mah Darrien Yau , Taib Siti Noor Linda , Mannan Md Abdul , Chai Siew Liang
Published: March 2021

This paper describes the evaluation of water storing capacity of a household stormwater detention system based on field data. Collection of field data is often sidelined due to the cost and human capital incurred. However, the true value of field data is demonstrated here by comparing the observed and design data. A field test is completed in a real-life terrace house, utilizing the house’s 95m2 side canopy as roof catchment and 4.40m x 4.70m car porch area to station a detention tank. Precast concrete modular units with 3.9m3 effective storage volume are assembled within the tank. Downpipe with 0.1m diameter is installed to connect the roof gutter to the detention tank; while pipeline with 0.05m diameter is installed as the outlet from tank to the house perimeter drain. The mentioned setup is subjected to actual rainfalls from December 2019 till February 2020 that corresponded with the peak of Northeast Monsoon season. Ten observed storm events with peak hourly total rainfall readings ranging from 22 to 48mm are selected for analysis. Rainfall and water level readings from the field test allow the derivation of roof runoff volume and detained water volume in the tank. It is found that the household stormwater detention system is able to capture about 50% of the roof runoff. However, the current setup is found to cause flooding for rainfall over 40mm. The flooding issue, however, is undetected by the design data that underestimated the water storing capacity. This is due to the use of uncommon precast concrete modular units that may not have its flow characteristics represented by existing formula and model. No matter how uncommon the modular units be, various types and forms of stormwater detention system are becoming the new normal in the industry and field test is the best tool to validate their performances.
AN INVESTIGATION ON THE USE OF BACILLUS SUBTILIS HU58 IN CEMENT MORTAR
Authors: Huynh Nguyen Ngoc Tri , Son Nguyen Khanh
Published: March 2021

Literature studies reveal the fact that incorporating bacteria into cement matrix could generate the formation of precipitated product of calcium carbonate. In this work, a new type of microorganism Bacillus subtilis HU58 was used as mixing component in formulating mortar sample of Portland cement and the effectiveness of self-healing character after 1 year of curing time was observed. Results showed the consequence in the enhancement of both compressive and flexural strengths of bacteria-modified mortar while comparing to a controlled mortar: 60MPa>56MPa (in compression) and 11MPa >9MPa (in flexion). Furthermore, those pre-existing artificial cracks 1mm in width of the prismatic mortar 40x40x160mm filled up partially (self-healing) by mineral glue.
IMPACT FORCE RECONSTRUCTION USING WAVELET DECONVOLUTION TECHNIQUE
Authors: Tran Hai , Inoue Hirotsugu
Published: March 2021

Reconstruction or deconvolution of impact force history from corresponding impact responses such as strain, acceleration, and displacement has been considered as a useful indirect method for measuring the impact force. However, due to the ill-posed nature of deconvolution problem, impact force is often inaccurately and unstably reconstructed. This paper introduces and applies the deconvolution technique using wavelets as a robust method for reconstructing impact force with the advantageous properties of wavelets. First, an analytical process of impact force reconstruction by using the wavelet technique in terms of scaling and translating the Haar wavelet is formulated. The unknown impact force is represented by the expanded coefficients at different scales and shifts of Haar wavelet which is compactly supported in the time domain (finite in time). Then, based on the governing equation of impact force deconvolution, the reconstruction process of these expanded coefficients is formulated. Second, a structural model is built by finite element method to obtain impulse response function numerically. After that, the wavelet technique is applied to reconstruct the impact forces acting on the structure to verify its effectiveness. The comparisons between reconstructed forces and finite element analysis results demonstrate the success of the present technique in accurately reconstructing the numerical impact forces acting on the thin-walled column. These achievements show remarkable ability of the wavelet technique for reconstructing accurately any input forces.
ALTERATION, VEIN TEXTURES AND FLUID INCLUSION PETROGRAPHY OF METAMORPHIC ROCK-HOSTED GOLD DEPOSIT AT ONZONKANBANI AREA, CENTRAL MYANMAR: IMPLICATION FOR ITS GENESIS
Authors: Zar Aung Tay , Warmada I Wayan , Setijadji Lucas Donny , Watanabe Koichiro
Published: March 2021

Gold and base metal mineralization of Onzon-Kabani area is located at the western part of Mogok Metamorphic Belt in central Myanmar, where the well-known Sagaing Fault serves as its western boundary. Artisanal and small-scale gold operations started here three decades ago on gold mineralization hosted in marble and gneiss. Mineralization occurs as fracture-filling veins of several types: gold-bearing quartz vein, base metal quartz-carbonate vein, and carbonate base metal sulfides vein. Three types of hydrothermal alteration zones develop from the proximal to distal zone of hydrothermal conduit: silicic, sericite-illite and propylitic alteration. Alteration mineral assemblages consist of quartz, calcite, sericite, adularia, epidote, chlorite, illite and smectite which are typical of neutral pH hydrothermal fluid. The presence of adularia and calcite within veins indicate boiling event of near-neutral pH condition. Common vein textures of quartz and calcite are banded, crustiform, bladed calcite, lattice, mosaic or jigsaw, cockade, comb and zonal. Boiling-related mineral textures (e.g. banded, bladed and lattice) and fluid inclusion characteristics of coexisting liquid-rich and vapor-rich fluid inclusions have been identified in mineralized samples. Common ore minerals are pyrite, sphalerite, galena, chalcopyrite and minor marcasite, electrum and native gold. Gold is mostly associated with quartz gangue, pyrite, sphalerite and galena. Fluid-inclusion study suggests the presence of liquid-rich and vapor-rich fluid inclusions which were trapped in boiling fluid at homogenization temperature of 159 to 315°C and moderate salinity of 0.88 to 12.51 wt.% NaCl equivalent. It is concluded that despite mesothermal gold system is more typical style of gold mineralization in the Mogok Metamorphic Belt, it is not the type of mineralization in the Onzon-Kanbani area. Instead, a low-sulfidation epithermal system is more characteristic to be present here. The knowledge generated from this study can serve as a guide in understanding new deposit type as well as mineral exploration in the region.
DETERMINATION OF THE PROPERTIES OF BAMBUSA BLUMEANA USING FULL-CULM COMPRESSION TESTS AND LAYERED TENSILE TESTS FOR FINITE ELEMENT MODEL SIMULATION USING ORTHOTROPIC MATERIAL MODELING
Authors: Candelaria Ma. Doreen Esplana , Hernandez, Jr. Jaime Yabut
Published: March 2021

Construction materials are selected based on two factors: structural integrity and economy. However, there is an emerging issue with regards to building materials, and that is sustainability, which considers the environmental load of a construction material. Bamboo’s lightweight and flexibility make it a good alternative for residential construction in seismic. In this study, bamboo was tested for its material properties. Layered tensile tests and full-culm compressive tests were done to get the material properties of the bamboo. The top part of the bamboo culm recorded the highest tensile strength per layer, with its outer layers having tensile strength as high as 600 MPa. The tensile strength of its middle and inner layers, on the other hand, were approximately 450 MPa and 180 MPa, respectively. As for the compressive strength, the top part of the bamboo culm recorded the highest compressive strength with an average of 76.84 MPa. The middle part of the bamboo culm recorded the lowest compressive strength with an average of 62.55 MPa. The bottom part of the bamboo culm recorded an average compressive strength of 69.49 MPa. These properties were then used to construct an orthotropic material model and simulate the stresses using finite element modeling. The FEM model of a simply-supported beam with a concentrated load at midspan was made. To validate the orthotropic material model for bamboo, three-point bending tests of bamboo beams were conducted and compared with the simulation results. The results show that in modeling the material properties of the bamboo to check for deflections, the orthotropic model gives more accurate results.
NITROGEN REMOVAL FROM MUNICIPAL WASTEWATER USING INTEGRATED FIXED FILM ACTIVATED SLUDGE PROCESS AND ANOXIC PROCESS
Authors: Khaing Nway Nway , Myint Theingi Ye , Kyi Cho Cho Thin
Published: March 2021

This research was carried out using lab-scaled Integrated Fixed Film Activated Sludge (IFAS) process with fabious media and anoxic process in order to reduce the concentration of ammonia nitrogen and nitrate nitrogen in municipal wastewater from Yangon City, Myanmar. The required wastewater sample was collected from the wastewater treatment plant of Yangon City Development Committee (YCDC). Ten experiments were conducted with five operational conditions and they lasted about four months from February to May 2018. The rate of air supply for the aeration tank through these experiments was about 8 m3 /day. This paper describes the evaluation on nitrogen removal efficiency of the lab-scaled treatment system depending on the results from the experiments. Due to the different operational conditions through these experiments, the F/M ratio of IFAS process varied between 0.1 and 0.9 d -1 and SRT of IFAS process ranged between 6.0 days and 8.3 days. Moreover, the F/M ratio fluctuated between 0.2 d -1 and 0.7 d -1 as well as the Specific Rate of Denitrification (SRDN) altered between 0.23 g NO3-N/g MLSS and 0.33 g NO3-N/g MLSS in the anoxic process. According to the outcomes of the experiments, the maximum removal efficiency for ammonia nitrogen and nitrate nitrogen were about 98.2% and 97.7%, respectively. However, the optimum treatment efficiency for both NH3-N and NO3-N concentration was obtained at the ninth experiment with about 0.1 d-1 of the F/M ratio and about 6.4 days of SRT in aerobic reactor while the F/M ratio, SRDN and anoxic residence time of anoxic process were about 0.26 d-1 , 0.27 g NO3-N/ g MLSS and 48 hours, respectively. About 500 mg/l of ammonia nitrogen can be reduced to about 30 mg/l and about 2600 mg/l of nitrate nitrogen can be reduced to about 61 mg/l, respectively in this ninth experiment. The optimum treatment efficiency for ammonia nitrogen and nitrate nitrogen were about 94.0 % and 98.0 %, respectively.
FE SOLUTIONS OF NEAR-TIP FIELD FOR MODE-I CRACKS WITH RESIDUAL SURFACE TENSION
Authors: Rungamornrat Jaroon , Nguyen Son Ngoc , Wongthongsiri Supawat , Panupattanapong Keerati , Senjuntichai Teerapong , Nguyen Thai Binh
Published: March 2021

This paper presents finite element solutions of a near-tip elastic field of a straight, nano-scale crack in a two-dimensional, linear elastic, whole plane subjected to mode-I crack-face loads. The mathematical model is formulated using a continuum-based theory of classical linear elasticity together with Gurtin-Murdoch surface model to capture the role of the residual surface tension present on the crack-face material layer. The formulation finally yields a second-order, integrodifferential equation governing the crack opening displacement. A weighted residual technique along with the regularization procedure is applied to establish a weakly singular weak-form equation with the involved kernel of O(ln )r . Galerkin strategy and the finite element procedure are then employed to discretize the weak-form equation. Various types of element shape functions, generated by standard C0 -elements, standard C1 -elements, and special elements with built-in crack-tip functions, are considered. A proper quadrature rule is selected to efficiently and accurately evaluate both nearly and weakly singular double line integrals over pairs of elements resulting from the discretization and the solution of a dense system of linear algebraic equations is obtained using an efficient indirect solver. The rate of convergence of finite element solutions is fully investigated and such information is then used to conclude the influence of the residual surface tension on the behavior of the near-tip field.
Augmented Perpetual Manifolds and Perpetual Mechanical Systems—Part I: Definitions, Theorem, and Corollary for Triggering Perpetual Manifolds, Application in Reduced-Order Modeling and Particle-Wave Motion of Flexible Mechanical Systems
Authors: Georgiades Fotios
Published: March 2021

Perpetual points in mechanical systems were defined recently. Herein, they are used to seek specific solutions of N-degrees-of-freedom systems, and their significance in mechanics is discussed. In discrete linear mechanical systems, the perpetual points proved that they form the perpetual manifolds, they are associated with rigid body motions, and herein these systems are called perpetual. The definition of perpetual manifolds herein is extended to the augmented perpetual manifolds. A theorem defining the conditions of the external forces applied in an N-degrees-of-freedom system led to a solution in the exact augmented perpetual manifold of rigid body motions is proven. In this case, the motion by only one differential equation is described; therefore, it forms reduced-order modeling (ROM) of the original equations of motion. Further on, a corollary is proven that for harmonic motion in the augmented perpetual manifolds, the system moves in dual mode as wave-particle. The developed theory is certified in three examples, and the analytical solutions are in excellent agreement with the numerical simulations. This research is significant in several sciences, mathematics, physics, and mechanical engineering. In mathematics, this theory is significant for deriving particular solutions of nonlinear systems of differential equations. In physics/mechanics, the existence of wave-particle motion of flexible mechanical systems is of substantial value. Finally, in mechanical engineering, the theory in all mechanical structures can be applied, e.g., cars, airplanes, spaceships, and boats, targeting only the rigid body motions.
Noise of underwater explosions in the North Sea. A comparison of experimental data and model predictions
Authors: Salomons E. M. , Binnerts B. , Betke K. , von Benda-Beckmann A. M.
Published: March 2021

An analysis is presented of sound measurements performed near two detonations of unexploded ordnance (UXO) in the North Sea, at distances ranging from 1.5 to 12 km. The charge masses of the detonations were 325 and 140 kg TNT equivalent. The objective of the measurements was to improve the accuracy of model predictions of the area where UXO detonations affect harbour porpoises in the North Sea. For the predictions, an explosion emission model is combined with a shallow-water propagation model. The prediction model was previously validated for distances up to 2 km. The measurements reported here allowed validation up to a distance of 12 km. The measured levels and spectra are well explained by the model calculations. The model results depend strongly on the sea sediment layering. The propagation of high-frequency components appears to be affected primarily by the silty top layer, while low-frequency components are affected also by deeper sandy layers. Measured and calculated noise levels are used to determine permanent-threshold-shift effect distances for harbour porpoises (Phocoena phocoena). Values ranging from 2 to 6 km are found for the two detonations.
Noise measurements as a proxy to evaluating the response to recommendations in times of crisis: An update analysis of the transition to the second wave of the CoViD-19 pandemic in Central Stockholm, Sweden
Authors: Rumpler Romain , Venkataraman Siddharth , Göransson Peter
Published: March 2021

Sweden stands out among the other European countries by the degree of restrictive measures taken towards handling the 2019 coronavirus outbreak, associated with the CoViD-19 pandemic. While several governments have imposed a nationwide total or partial lockdown to slow down the spread of the virus, the Swedish government has opted for a recommendation-based approach together with a few imposed restrictions. In a previous contribution by the authors, the impact of the Swedish strategy was observed through the monitored variation of the city noise levels during a period associated with the so-called “first wave” of the pandemic in Stockholm. A very strong impact of these recommendations was shown on the evolution of the noise levels in central Stockholm. This highlighted the potential of acoustic sensor networks both for enforcement of regulation and monitoring of the effectiveness of their implementation. The present contribution presents a follow-up to this urban noise monitoring in central Stockholm, Sweden, for the period leading to the so-called “second wave” of the pandemic in Europe. Both the evolution of adherence to the recommendations and the impact of the recurrence of cases combined with reinforced recommendations are observed through the evolution of the measured noise levels. While the measurements show a gradual lower level of compliance, in particular, past the summer break, these also show again a rapid response to the reinforced recommendations issued by the authorities in mid-fall of 2020. These observations thus confirm the potential associated with detailed urban noise monitoring, for instance here acting as a proxy to evaluating the response to recommendations or restrictions in times of crisis.
Lightscapes of fear: How mesopredators balance starvation and predation in the open ocean
Authors: Beltran Roxanne S. , Kendall-Bar Jessica M. , Pirotta Enrico , Adachi Taiki , Naito Yasuhiko , Takahashi Akinori , Cremers Jolien , Robinson Patrick W. , Crocker Daniel E. , Costa Daniel P.
Published: March 2021

Lightscapes affect life and death of elephant seals during oceanic migrations.
Nuclear genome-wide associations with mitochondrial heteroplasmy
Authors: Nandakumar Priyanka , Tian Chao , O’Connell Jared ,   23andMe Research Team, Hinds David , Paterson Andrew D. , Sondheimer Neal
Published: March 2021

This study identifies regions of the nuclear genome that affect heteroplasmy, the mixture of different mitochondrial DNA.
Complete Genome Sequences of Microbacterium liquefaciens Phages Mercedes, Leafus, Nebulous, and Ixel
Authors: Frost Victoria J. , Westover Kristi M.
Published: March 2021

Microbacterium
phages Mercedes, Leafus, Nebulous, and Ixel were isolated from soil in Rock Hill, SC. All are lytic phages with
Siphoviridae
morphotypes and similar genome sequence lengths that range from 40,200 bp to 42,000 bp. The four bacteriophages were isolated using the host
Microbacterium liquefaciens
.
Complete Genome Sequence of
Pseudoalteromonas
sp. Strain LC2018020214, a Bacterium Isolated from Natural Seawater
Authors: Wattanadilokchatkun Pish , Kayansamruaj Pattanapon , Pan Jiao
Published: March 2021

Pseudoalteromonas
is a genus widely distributed in the ocean and displays antibacterial and antifouling activities. We isolated a
Pseudoalteromonas
sp. strain (LC2018020214) from coastal water of Qingdao, China, and assembled its complete genome. The genome consists of two circular chromosomes with lengths of 3,700,777 bp and 817,517 bp, respectively, and 3,866 coding sequences.
Draft Genome Sequence of a Burkholderia cepacia Complex Strain Isolated from a Human Intra-abdominal Abscess
Authors: Zhai Yuting , DeSear Kathryn E. , Cherabuddi Kartik , Morris J. Glenn , Jeong Kwangcheol C.
Published: March 2021

Burkholderia cepacia
complex (Bcc) bacteria are opportunistic pathogens with high transmissibility and mortality. Here, we report the draft genome sequence of a Bcc strain isolated from a deep abscess culture in an immunocompetent patient with no relevant prior medical history.
Complete Genome Sequence of Mycobacteriophage Fulbright
Authors: Kotturi Hari , Sahi Umar , Kedy Cameron , Ali Ahmed K.
Published: March 2021

Mycobacteriophage Fulbright was isolated from soil in central Oklahoma using
Mycobacterium smegmatis
mc
2
115. The genome of phage Fulbright is 42,396 bp long and contains 70 open reading frames (ORFs), with 33 having predicted functions and 37 having hypothetical proteins. It belongs to cluster N and shares 99% nucleotide identity with mycobacteriophage Phloss.
Complete Genome Sequence of the Bacterial Component of Mysorin Biopreparation
Authors: Afonin Alexey M. , Gribchenko Emma S. , Akhtemova Gulnar A. , Laktionov Yuri V. , Kozhemyakov Andrej P. , Zhukov Vladimir A.
Published: March 2021

Plants can form various beneficial associations with soil microorganisms, such as associations with plant-growth-promoting bacteria (PGPB). In this work, we report the full genome sequence of the component of Mysorin biopreparation, identified as
Microbacterium hominis
, consisting of a single 3.5-Mbp circular chromosome.
Draft Genome Sequences of Nine Environmental Bacterial Isolates Colonizing Plastic
Authors: Borre Ingrid , Sonnenschein Eva C.
Published: March 2021

Here, we report the draft genome sequences of nine bacterial isolates obtained after laboratory incubation of seawater, soil, and wastewater samples with polylactic acid, polyethylene, or polyethylene terephthalate film for 2 weeks. Assuming colonization as a prerequisite of degradation, these strains could contribute to a solution to the global plastic waste problem.
Isolated cognitive dysfunction in the presence of superficial siderosis after meningioma resection at the cervicothoracic junction
Authors: Boselie Toon FM , van Aalst Jasper , Staals Julie
Published: March 2021

Superficial siderosis is a rare disorder characterised by the deposition of haemosiderin on the surface of the central nervous system. Cognitive dysfunction has sporadically been reported in relation with superficial siderosis. We present a 61-year-old man with cognitive dysfunction in the presence of the typical radiological image of temporal and cerebellar superficial siderosis, most likely due to pseudomeningocoele 14 years after resection of a meningioma at the cervicothoracic junction. Xantochromia was present on cerebrospinal fluid investigation and a source of bleeding was seen during surgical exploration. Despite surgical treatment of the suspected bleeding source, the patient deteriorated and neuropsychological examination 1 year after surgery showed progression of cognitive dysfunction to dementia. It is likely that in the absence of other typical symptoms such as cerebellar ataxia and hearing loss, the cognitive dysfunction was not related to the superficial siderosis.
Bilateral isolated mylohyoid groove fracture progressing as submandibular abscess: an usual fracture pattern of mandible
Authors: Rajaran Jothi Raamahlingam , Nazimi AJ
Published: March 2021

The mylohyoid ridges or lines are pairs of anatomical bony structures located on the internal or lingual surface of mandible. They are the origin for the mylohyoid muscle. These bony structures are distinct in the mandibular molar region, well protected and gradually become undiscernible towards anterior mandible. Bilateral, isolated fracture of the mylohyoid ridges without concomitant mandibular fracture is rare and, to the best of the authors knowledge, was never previously described. This case report describes an isolated bilateral mylohyoid groove fracture, where one side of a necrotic bone fragment at the fracture site progress to became a nidus of infection, which later caused submandibular space abscess requiring emergency surgical intervention. Diagnosis, possible theory to explain the occurrence of isolated mylohyoid groove fracture and management of these condition are explained in this report.
Management of necrotic immature permanent maxillary incisors using a modified technique of revascularisation
Authors: Mayya Arun , Bhandary Shruti , Kolakemar Advith , George Ann Mary
Published: March 2021

The management of necrotic immature permanent teeth has always been a challenge to endodontists. Various treatment modalities have been tried and tested for achieving a successful outcome. Revascularisation is one among these treatment options, which is gaining widespread attention among endodontists. The growing body of evidence demonstrating the success of revascularisation has led to different variations of this treatment option. Clinicians have over time used different scaffolds such as blood clot, collagen, platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) and platelet-rich plasma for revascularisation. This case report outlines the management of immature maxillary central incisors with pulp necrosis and large periapical lesions in a 19-year-old female patient with a modified technique of revascularisation by combining PRF and blood clot. At the end of 12 months, the patient was completely asymptomatic along with regression of the periapical lesions.
Ovarian Leydig cell tumor and postmenopausal hirsutism with signs of virilisation
Authors: Ferrinho Cátia , Silva Eugénia , Oliveira Manuela , Sequeira Duarte João
Published: March 2021

A 71-year-old woman was referred to the endocrinology clinic to investigate postmenopausal hirsutism with 10 years of evolution. She had history of regular menses and menopause with 50 years old. Physical examination showed a male pattern facies, deepening of the voice, androgenic alopecia and hirsutism with a score of 23 according to the modified Ferriman-Gallwey scale. Testosterone and androstenedione were increased. Transvaginal ultrasound, abdominal and pelvic CT showed uterine fibroids with no pathological findings in the adrenals or ovaries. Since she had postmenopausal vaginal bleeding, uterine fibroids and suspicion of an ovarian source for her hyperandrogenism, total hysterectomy and bilateral oophorectomy were performed. Histopathological diagnosis was a Leydig cell tumour located in left ovary and endometrial carcinoma. Improvement of hirsutism was started to notice 1 month after the surgery and she was referred to the oncology clinic for adjuvant treatment.
Eye-tracking-based visual field analysis (EFA): a reliable and precise perimetric methodology for the assessment of visual field defects
Authors: Leitner Michael Christian , Hutzler Florian , Schuster Sarah , Vignali Lorenzo , Marvan Patrick , Reitsamer H A , Hawelka Stefan
Published: March 2021

Objective

Several studies report evidence for training-related neuroplasticity in the visual cortex, while other studies suggest that improvements simply reflect inadequate eye fixation control during perimetric prediagnostics and postdiagnostics.

Methods and analysis

To improve diagnostics, a new eye-tracking-based methodology for visual field analysis (eye-tracking-based visual field analysis (EFA)) was developed. The EFA is based on static automated perimetry and additionally takes individual eye movements in real time into account and compensates for them. In the present study, an evaluation of the EFA with the help of blind spots of 58 healthy participants and the individual visual field defects of 23 clinical patients is provided. With the help of the EFA, optical coherence tomography, Goldmann perimetry and a Humphrey field analyser, these natural and acquired scotomas were diagnosed and the results were compared accordingly.

Results

The EFA provides a SE of measurement of 0.38° for the right eye (OD) and 0.50° for the left eye (OS), leading to 0.44° of visual angle for both eyes (OU). Based on participants’ individual results, the EFA provides disattenuated correlation (validity) of 1.00 for both OD and OS. Results from patients suffering from cortical lesions and glaucoma further indicate that the EFA is capable of diagnosing acquired scotoma validly and is applicable for clinical use.

Conclusion

Outcomes indicate that the EFA is highly reliable and precise in diagnosing individual shape and location of scotoma and capable of recording changes of visual field defects (after intervention) with unprecedented precision. Test duration is comparable to established instruments and due to the high customisability of the EFA, assessment duration can be shortened by adapting the diagnostic procedure to the patients’ individual visual field characteristics. Therefore, the saccade-compensating methodology enables researchers and healthcare professionals to rule out eye movements as a source of inaccuracies in pre-, post-, and follow-up assessments.