bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Segmentasi Citra Pembuluh Darah Retina Menggunakan Metode Deteksi Garis Multi Skala
Authors: Triwijoyo Bambang Krismono
Published: February 2018

Changes in retinal blood vessels feature a sign of serious illnesses such as heart disease and stroke. Therefore, the analysis of retinal vascular features can help in detecting these changes and allow patients to take preventive measures at an early stage of this disease. Automation of this process will help reduce the costs associated with the specialist and eliminate inconsistencies that occur in manual detection system. Among the retinal image analysis, image extraction retinal blood vessels is a crucial step before measurement. In this paper, we use an effective methodof automatically extracting the blood vessels of the color images of the retina using a length detector line in several different scales, in order to maintain the strength and eliminates the weaknesses of each detector individual lines, the result of the detection lines on various scales combined to produce a segmentation of each image of the retina. The performance of the method is evaluated quantitatively using DRIVE dataset. Test results show that this method achieve high accuracy is 0.9407 approaching measurement results manually by experts, and this method produces accurate segmentation in detecting retinal blood vessels with effiiency by quickly segmenting time is 2.5 seconds per image.
Implementasi Restful Web Service One Chip Multi-Client Untuk Mengoptimalkan Penjualan Pulsa All Operator
Authors: Indrawan Mohamad Erwin , Adil Ahmat
Published: February 2018

Along with the development of information technology and telecommunications, evolving pulse function is not just used for SMS, telephone and internet, but also as a payment of transactions such as electricity prepaid, postpaid electricity, home phone, internet telecoms speedy, payments and other groceries. In credit sales, the chip can only be used by one agent, so it can not optimize the sales deposit balance both in terms of time, place and income because the chip can not be used by another person who made the sale of pulses is limited by time and place. Based on these problems, we need a system that can process 1 chip pulse of many clients by applying resful architectural style web service as a liaison between the client and the server using the Java programming language, apache tomcat server and MySQL. The design of this application is done by using a waterfall methodology, which is a method of developing a system that begins with the analysis stage, then the system design, implementation and test of making application to users as well as by implementing a restful web service to handle the request and response between the client and server. With a system that can process one chip for all carriers from different places and platform, and also owners can optimize Wincell sales deposit both in terms of time, place and revenues
Sistem Informasi Pemantauan Status Gizi Balita
Authors: Hidjah Khasnur , Wardana Helna , Santoso Heroe , Anggrawan Anthony
Published: February 2018

Based on interviews with staff nutrition Health Office (Dikes) West Lombok, that is not currently availableinformation systems that can be used to input data monitoring nutritional status of children. So it still takes avery long time to get the right information related to monitoring the nutritional status of children and familiesaware of nutrition per each district. The primary data sourced directly from the community gathered by Puskesmas officers. Analysis of the data needed to meet the needs of data input, process and report to the monitoring system of nutritional status include: site identification, the identity of the household, the habit ofweighing the family members, the question for pregnant or postpartum mothers, the nutritional intake of thefamily, the identity of a toddler, a child's weight. The expected benefits of the outcomes defined as follows:enhance the ability to analyze the situation of food and nutrition in every region, able to set the priority handlingof food and nutrition, able to monitor and evaluate the development of food and nutrition, improve communityhealth status is marked as well as out of the category of problematic areas of health, especially malnutrition andless.
Perancangan Infrastruktur Jaringan Komputer Untuk Mendukung Implementasi Sistem Informasi Pada Universitas Teknologi Sumbawa
Authors: Esabella Shinta
Published: February 2018

The purpose of this writing is to be able to recognize the performance of the design of computer networks of Universitas Teknologi Sumbawa which has been built in simulator OPNET Version 14.5, from which the design of a computer network consists of two designs specifically design of computer networks using Cable Media and Wireless Media (Access Point). The study begins by analyzing the current situation of the computer network and discovers the circumstance of utilization of computer networks had not been optimal as the condition of the computer network infrastructure of Universitas Teknologi Sumbawa rector is only found in the main building itself. The process ofanalysis and design of computer network infrastructure uses the Network Development Life Cycle (NDLC). The comparison outcome of the design with the Cable Media in the Simulator has Page Response Time 82,3% faster than using Wireless Media and delay point of Cable Media is 19,1% lower than Wireless Media. Therefore Cable Media is able to be considered as one of preferences by the Executive Board of Universitas Teknologi Sumbawa to develop Computer Network Infrastructure for integrating entire existing building within the campus area in order to support the implementation of the information system.
Sistem Pakar Penentuan Kaidah Hukum Dalam Ilmu Nahwu Pada Babul Marfu’atil Asma’ Menggunakan Metode Forward Chaining
Authors: Hakim Marwan
Published: February 2018

Sistem pakar (expert system) secara umum adalah sistem yang berusaha mengadopsi pengetahuan manusia ke komputer, agar komputer dapat menyelesaikan masalah seperti yang biasa dilakukan oleh para ahli. atau dengan kata lain sistem pakar adalah sistem yang didesain dan diimplementasikan dengan bantuan bahasa pemrograman tertentu untuk dapat menyelesaikan masalah seperti yang dilakukan oleh para ahli, seperti halnya dalam penentuan kaidah hukum dalam ilmu nahwu pada babul marfu’atul asma’. Hasil dari penelitian ini dapat menampilkan 7 buah kesimpulan (konklusi) dari 12 pertanyaan (premis) sesuai kaidah yang ada pada babul marfu’atil asma’. Metode inferensi yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah inferensi forwardchaining, penelusurannya dimulai dengan menelusuri ciri-ciri kalimat dan berakhir pada kesimpulan berupa kaidah hukum. Sistem ini dibuat dinamis, sehingga jika suatu saat nanti adaperubahan pengetahuan, maupun penambahan, penghapusan pertanyaan maupun kesimpulan, dapat dilakukan oleh admin setelah melakuka login.
Desain Sistem Informasi Sekolah Berbasis Android
Authors: Fitriani Renita , Tajuddin Muhammad
Published: February 2018

Information technology today has grown rapidly, not least in Indonesia. almost all large and medium enterprises to apply information technology to help oprasi business. The use of thistechnology covers virtually all ages, ranging from young children to adults especially Smart phone. Smart phone is a phone with capabilities beyond computing and connectivity. Smat phonean Android-based smart phone that dominate the world's smart phone market, making the Android-based applications easier when compared to other operating systems. Likewise, the implementation of education, especially Senior High School (SMA). SMAN XXX require the system to help the school and students that there SMAN XXX. Where the application is built withthe programming language PHP (Personal Home Page), Database MySQL, XAMPP, Web Server and its utlity software using android studio. System development methodology that I use is the Waterfall methodology. This system generates data information teacher, student data, employee data, and the data on tuition payments. This application is also in lengakapi with features share the announcement, in which not only the admin can share information or send information, but students, teachers, and employees can also send or transmit information through features share the announcement, which will be received the user a notification announcement, extracurricular andSPP notifications and other announcements.
Aplikasi Monitoring Penerima Beasiswa Bidikmisi Berbasis Web, Android Dan Sms Gateway
Authors: Wardhana Helna , Hasanah B. Dinda Uswatun
Published: February 2018

Scholarships Bidikmisi (Education Support Student Achievement) is a tuition assistance is only intended for prospective students disadvantaged (poor). Bidikmisi scholarship program's mission is to revive hope for the poor and have adequate academic potential. STMIK Bumigora Mataram monitoring of scholarship recipients Bidikmisi still manually.Student party still controlling the GPA through the academic part and the difficulty in controlling the GPAscholarship recipients. The scholarship recipients and parents do not get information on thedisbursement of funds led to lack of openness between students and parents. The solution of the existing problems is made Scholarship Bidikmisi Monitoring System Based Web, Android and SMS gateway. Through the website of the student can control GPA scholarship students each semester. Android applications can facilitate the control of student scholarship students onlythrough mobile android, and with the SMS Gateway facilitate scholarship students and parents to get information on the disbursement of the funds.The conclusions obtained from this study is that the monitoring system can provide convenience for the student in control of the grantee Bidikmisi.  This can be evidenced by the respondents who answered disagree as much as 75% and as much as 25% who answered strongly agree.
Perencanaan Strategis SI/TI Pada Perguruan Tinggi (Studi Kasus: STMIK Bumigora Mataram)
Authors: Bachtiar Adam , Hasanah Uswatun
Published: February 2018

In process of implementation information technology and communication, every organization are demanded to produce information technology and communication product that aligned with the perpose of organization. Therefor every organization not only arrange plan of business strategic, but then every organization must arrange plan of IS/IT strategic that appropriate with plan of business strategic organization. This research aims to arrange plan of IS/IT strategic for STMIK Bumigora Mataram. Methods are used in this study is the method of Ward & Peppard. The resulted of this research are strategic plan of IT/IS of STMIK Bumigora Mataram that aligned with its strategic plan. In addition, this research also provides the policy of strategic management IT/SI and the schedule of implementation the IS/IT strategic plan for STMIK Bumigora Mataram.
Pengaruh Pembelajaran E-Learning Dan Kebiasaan Belajar Terhadap Peningkatan Kompetensi Mahasiswa Pascasarjana Pada Universitas Bina Nusantara
Authors: Egeten Angelina Ervina Jeanette
Published: February 2018

E-learning is a learning method that using electronic media as teaching materials to students. The definition of E-learning is very wide, which by terminology associated with online learning. E-learning in Bina Nusantara University is an E-learning which is done by online learning named as Binus Online Learning. Binus Online Learning applying the blended learning as a combination of online learning and face-to-face learning. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of E-learning system and learning habits towards the online and regular students of MMSI and MTI major. Data were taken from 210 respondents of regular and online active student of Bina Nusantara University, and analyzed with the Pearson product moment parametric correlation using SPSS 21 as tools. Further research was conducted to compare the competence between regular and online class based on MMSI and MTI major using cross tabulation and one way ANOVA to significant difference test.
Sentralisasi Manajemen Hotspot Menggunakan Transparent Bridge Tunnel EoIP over SSTP
Authors: Hariyadi I Putu
Published: February 2018

STMIK Bumigora is the first computer college in the province of West Nusa Tenggara (NTB). There are 11 hotspots spread across the campus to provide Internet services through a wireless connection for the academic community. The increasing number of hotspots that must be managed with locations scattered in various Mikrotik routers hence make the process of management and monitoring hotspots become complex, ineffective and efficient. Centralized campus hotspot management using a transparent bridge EoIP over SSTP can help solve the problems at hand. Ethernet over IP (EoIP) Tunneling is a Mikrotik RouterOS protocol that creates an Ethernet tunnel between routers over IP connections. EoIP tunnel built on SSTP tunnel (EoIP over SSTP) with Site-to-Site type. SSTP is a new form of Virtual Private Network (VPN) tunnel that provides a mechanism for encapsulating Point-to-Point Protocol (PPP) traffic through the SSL path of the HTTPS protocol. The IP address of the SSTP interface is used as the local reference and remote address of the EoIP over SSTP tunnel. The application of bridging on EoIP interfaces and interfaces connected to Access Point devices forms a logical network so that the management and monitoring of hotspot services can be performed centrally on one router.
Rancang Bangun Aplikasi Kamus Bahasa Sumbawa Berbasis Android
Authors: Sofya Nora Dery , Esabella Shinta , - Rodianto
Published: February 2018

The purpose of this writing is to design and to develop an application that is able to present data in Sumbawa Language (Basa Samawa) Dictionary which is still in book outline into digital form. Spiral method is used in this research for software development process and its data collection method applies literature study with data source from "Dictionary of Sumbawa-Indonesia" by Department of Education National Language Center Office Province of West Nusa Tenggara, moreover its test method pertains black box method that is a software experiment in terms of its functionality. The results of research that has been built with Android Studio 1.5 and SQLite database with target android version 6.0 (Marshmallow) has been accessible through Play Store, in which this application has been equipped with vocabulary search including sentence examples, introduction to dictionary usage, dictionary procedure information and application to contribute to the indigenous communities of Sumbawa as well as exterior societies of Sumbawa in studying Sumbawa language and preserving the Sumbawa cultural heritage.
PENGARUH EKUITAS MEREK JILBAB ZOYA TERHADAP NILAI PELANGGAN DI KOTA MATARAM
Authors: Sari Ria Rosmala
Published: February 2018

AbstrakPenelitian ini berjudul “Pengaruh Ekuitas Merek Jilbab Zoya Terhadap Nilai Pelanggan di Kota Mataram”. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui pendapat konsumen di Kota Mataram mengenai ekuitas merek yang terdiri atas kinerja merek (XI), citra sosial dari merek (X2), nilai yang diterima konsumen (X3), kepercayaan konsumen (X4),  dan perasaan pribadi dengan merek (X5) dari produk Jilbab Zoya dan untuk mengetahui pengaruhnya terhadap nilai pelanggan di Kota Mataram. Penelitian merupakan jenis penelitian asosiatif yaitu bertujuan untuk mengetahui pengaruh ekuitas merek terhadap nilai pelanggan. Metode pengumpulan data yang digunakan adalah metode sampel survey dengan alat pengumpulan data berupa kuisioner yang dibagikan kepada 100 orang responden, dengan teknik pengambilan sampel berupa acidental sampling. Alat analisis yang digunakan adalah Regresi Linier Berganda. Dari fungsi regresi yang terbentuk menunjukkan adanya pengaruh yang signifikan secara simultan dari ekuitas merek dengan dimensi ekuitas merek berupa variabel Performance (kinerja merek), Social image (citra sosial dari merek), Value (nilai yang diterima konsumen), Trustworthiness (kepercayaan konsumen) serta Commitmen (perasaan secara pribadi dengan merek)) terhadap Nilai Pelanggan di Kota Mataram. Dan dari hasil T tabel dapat diketahui bahwa Pervormance (X1), Social Image (X2), dan Value (X3) menunjukkan pengaruh pengaruh yang signifikan secara parsial terhadap nilai pelanggan (Y). Sedangakan  Trustworthiness (X4) dan Commitment (X5) tidak menunjukkan pengaruh signifikan secara parsial terhadap nilai pelanggan (Y).
PEMODELAN DATA DERET WAKTU DENGAN AUTOREGRESSIVE INTEGRATED MOVING AVERAGE DAN LOGISTIC SMOOTHING TRANSITION AUTOREGRESSIVE
Authors: Putri Gusti Ayu Made Arna , Hendayanti Ni Putu Nanik , Nurhidayati Maulida
Published: February 2018

AbstrakAnalisis deret waktu adalah suatu analisis statistika yang dapat diterapkan pada data yang berhubungan dengan waktu. Pemodelan dari data deret waktu ini banyak dikaitkan dengan proses peramalan suatu karakteristik tertentu pada periode mendatang. Pemodelan data inflasi kebanyakan dilakukan dengan menggunakan model deret waktu linier seperti Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average (ARIMA). Pada kenyataannya model ARIMA hanya dapat diterapkan pada model-model data deret waktu linier. Model ARIMA belum mampu memberikan hasil yang baik ketika data yang dianalisis merupakan suatu data deret waktu nonlinier. Data inflasi, merupakan suatu data yang memiliki kecenderungan membentuk pola data yang nonlinier sehingga penerapan model deret waktu nonlinier dapat dilakukan pada data inflasi tersebut. Model Logistic Smooting Threshold Autoregressive (LSTAR) adalah model deret waktu yang dapat diterapkan pada data yang mengikuti model nonlinier. LSTAR kemudian dikembangkan pada data-data ekonomi dan keuangan seperti inflasi. Jika data inflasi dimodelkan dengan pendekatan LSTAR diharapkan bisa mendapatkan hasil yang lebih baik karena sudah dilakukan penghalusan didalamnya. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui model terbaik yang dapat digunakan untuk melakukan pemodelan data inflasi. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa hasil perbandingan MSE dan RMSE untuk model ARIMA dan LSTAR. Berdasarkan hasil tersebut diketahui bahwa model LSTAR memiliki nilai MSE dan RMSE yang lebih kecil dibandingkan dengan ARIMA. Sehingga model LSTAR lebih sesuai digunakan untuk memodelkan data inflasi.
Durchlaufzeitreduzierung in der Reparatur hochwertiger Investitionsgüter
Authors: Dombrowski Uwe , Sendler Markus , Supke-Zeilinga Kristin
Published: February 2018

Kurzfassung

Im Kontext der Instandhaltung hochwertiger Investitionsgüter kommen vermehrt externe Reparaturdienstleister zum Einsatz, die sich auf einzelne Reparaturleistungen spezialisieren. Dazu zählt die Bearbeitung von definierten Bauteilen anhand spezifischer Reparaturverfahren. Ziel dieses Beitrags ist es, Rahmenbedingungen für derartige Reparaturdienstleister zu identifizieren und Potenziale für Zielgrößen wie Durchlaufzeit und Produktivität zu lokalisieren. Zur Nutzung der Potenziale wird ein Vorgehen zur Gestaltung spezialisierter Reparaturwerkstätten entwickelt. An einem Praxisbeispiel werden konkrete Gestaltungsoptionen veranschaulicht und Potenziale für eine Verbesserung von Durchlaufzeit und Produktivität aufgezeigt.
Regionalisierung – die Zukunft der Produktion?
Authors: Voswinckel Themo , Kraut Andreas , Krolle Yannick
Published: February 2018

Kurzfassung

Die aus der Globalisierung hervorgegangene zentralisierte Produktion beeinflusst Ökonomie, Ökologie und Gesellschaft. Doch wie sind diese Auswirkungen mit den heutigen Ansprüchen an Nachhaltigkeit, Reaktionsfähigkeit und Individualismus vereinbar? Eine mögliche Weiterentwicklung stellen regionale Produktionsstrukturen dar. Ziele des Beitrags sind die Differenzierung zwischen unterschiedlichen Formen der Regionalisierung sowie die Identifizierung und Analyse von Einflussfaktoren und deren Zusammenhängen.
Strategische Positionierung von Standorten
Authors: Wiech Michael , Benninghaus Christoph , Schlauri Sandro , Drost Robin , Friedli Thomas
Published: February 2018

Kurzfassung

Internationale Produktionsnetzwerke können als Quelle von Wettbewerbsvorteilen maßgeblich den Unternehmenserfolg beeinflussen. Die Positionierung der Produktionsstandorte als Teilelemente des Gesamtsystems stellt einen relevanten Stellhebel zur Optimierung dar. Auf Basis einer strukturierten Vorgehensweise können die strategischen Netzwerkfähigkeiten definiert und deren Ausprägung anhand der jeweiligen Standortbeiträge gesteuert werden.
Leistungssteigerung durch Industrie 4.0 für kleine und mittlere Unternehmen
Authors: Knospe Olaf , Drewel Marvin , Mittag Tobias , Pierenkemper Christoph , Hobscheidt Daniela
Published: February 2018

Kurzfassung

Die im Zusammenhang mit Industrie 4.0 diskutierten Entwicklungen eröffnen für Unternehmen vielfältige Möglichkeiten zur Leistungssteigerung. Gerade für kleine und mittlere Unternehmen ist es zielführend, nicht das grundsätzlich Mögliche einzuführen, sondern das für die spezifische Situation Erforderliche. Das Verbundprojekt INLUMIA unterstützt Unternehmen darin, ihre Leistungsfähigkeit im Kontext von Industrie 4.0 zu erhöhen.
Lean Administration und/oder Digitalisierung?
Authors: Laqua Ingo
Published: February 2018

Kurzfassung

Die Steigerung der Effizienz in administrativen Prozessen basiert auf zwei wesentlichen Prinzipien: Erst vereinfachen, dann automatisieren. Die Digitalisierung bietet hierzu weitreichende Möglichkeiten, um auch oder gerade in der Administration die Prozesseffizienz deutlich zu erhöhen. Wer aber glaubt, sich deshalb den Aufwand einer umfassenden Analyse ersparen zu können, liegt falsch.
Microstructural and mechanical properties of friction and MIAB welded carbon steel tubes and forging bracket joints
Authors: Balta Berna , Arıcı Aziz Armağan , Yılmaz Muharrem , Gümüş Serap , Yücel Selçuk Can
Published: February 2018

Continuous drive friction welding (CDFW) and magnetic impelled arc butt (MIAB) welding are solid-state welding techniques, in which bonding is achieved at temperatures below the material melting point. Although CDFW welding has been widely used in automotive and aeronautics industry, MIAB welding has not been commonly used yet. The present study involves the comparison of CDFW and MIAB welding for joining medium carbon steel tubes and medium carbon forging brackets together, which are widely used for the construction of drivetrain applications in automotive industry. Optimum parameters are presented for both techniques by using macro- and microstructural analysis, hardness, tensile and petal tests. Based on the analyses presented in this study, MIAB welding can be an alternative to CDFW for structural automobile parts.
Effect of strain rate on stress corrosion cracking of X100 pipeline steel in environments with sulfate-reducing bacteria
Authors: Wu Ming , Gong Ke , Xie Fei , Wang Dan , Liu Guangxin
Published: February 2018

Pipelines installed in the seabed for long periods suffer from high stress levels, and the sea mud environment is complex because it contains various microorganisms that make pipelines prone to stress corrosion cracking (SCC). In this study, a self-designed stress electrochemical corrosion test device was adopted to ensure the normal growth and metabolism of sulfate-reducing bacteria (SRB). The effects of strain rate on the SCC behavior of X100 pipeline steel with SRB in a simulation solution of sea mud from the South China Sea were studied using the slow strain rate test, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy fractography. Results show that SRB can promote the stress corrosion susceptibility of X100 pipeline steel. As strain rate increases, the stress corrosion susceptibility decreases in general. When the strain rate is 5 × 10−7 × s−1, the stress corrosion susceptibility is largest and SCC occurs. Under the impact of SRB and strain rate, the stress corrosion fracture mechanism is hydrogen embrittlement mechanism. With the increase in strain rate, the effect of SRB becomes weak and the stress corrosion susceptibility shows a decreasing trend in general. Consequently, SCC does not occur in the specimen and the fracture is dominated by mechanical factors.
Combined impact of UV radiation and nitric acid on HDPE containers during outdoor exposure
Authors: Geburtig Anja , Wachtendorf Volker , Schmidt Anita , Goedecke Thomas
Published: February 2018

Unpigmented HDPE jerrycans filled with nitric acid (55 wt.-%) and water respectively had been exposed to outdoor conditions for one Berlin summer season. As both liquids underwent equal temperature progression, exposure effects of UV radiation and nitric acid as well as of the combination of both can be separated and compared. On the basis of various property changes after these exposures, synergistic action is evaluated and compared to a damaged Intermediate Bulk Container (IBC) from a transport accident. It is found that carbonyl formation accompanies lightness increase in color measurement due to microcracking and with a worsening in mechanical behavior, all of them showing the synergistic effects of UV and nitric acid exposure. By contrast, embedding nitrogen compounds accompanies yellowing of the material but cannot be correlated to oxidation. The reason for intensified damaging is the decomposition of the 55-percent nitric acid and the formation of nitrogen oxides even at ambient temperatures, caused by UV radiation. Thus, damaging effects become similar to those caused by fuming nitric acid exposure at temperatures above 60 °C, resulting in strong oxidative degradation of the polyethylene. By contrast, exclusive exposure to the 55 wt.-% nitric acid at 40 °C does not cause any failure. It can therefore be assumed that the damaged IBC too had been exposed to both UV radiation and nitric acid, probably outdoors.
Influence of sintering temperature on mechanical properties of spark plasma sintered pre-alloyed Ti-6Al-4 V powder
Authors: Muthuchamy A. , Patel Paridh , Rajadurai M. , Chaurisiya Jitendar K. , Annamalai A. Raja
Published: February 2018

Spark plasma sintering provides faster heating that can create fully, or near fully, dense samples without significant grain growth. In this study, pre-alloyed Ti-6Al-4 V powder compact samples produced through field assisted sintering in a spark plasma sintering machine are compared as a function of consolidation temperature. The effect of sintering temperature on the densification mechanism, microstructural evolution and mechanical properties of spark plasma sintered Ti-6Al-4 V alloy compacts was investigated in detail. The compact, sintered at 1100 °C, exhibited near net density, highest hardness and strength as compared to the other compacts processed at a temperature lower than 1100 °C.
Tribological performance of glass/epoxy composites filled with MWCNTs
Authors: Ovali İsmail
Published: February 2018

The effect of addition of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) on the wear behaviour of glass/epoxy composites manufactured using the pre-preg method was investigated. The MWCNT filling rates were 0.5, 1, and 2 wt.%, and unfilled composite samples were used for comparison. The worn surfaces were characterised by means of scanning electron microscopy for evaluating the wear mechanisms. The experimental results showed that all the composites filled with MWCNTs have a lower wear loss than the unfilled composite sample, and the wear resistance increased with increase in the amount of MWCNTs. It is revealed that the abrasive wear resistance of the glass/epoxy composites is mainly related to the adhesion at the matrix and fibre interface.
A short history of scientific investigations on glaciers
Authors: Clarke Garry K.C.
Published: February 2018

Scientific investigations on valley glaciers engaged some of the greatest natural philosophers of the nineteenth century. Among these, Louis Agassiz has unique importance for he personifies the transition from the protoscientific period of de Saussure and Scheuchzer to the scientific one of Forbes and his successors. In this brief history I have attempted to connect the achievements of the past 50 years with the aspirations of our predecessors.

“The air immediately above me seemed filled with rainbow-dust, for the ice-needles glittered with a thousand hues under the decomposition of light upon them, while the dark storm in the valley below offered a strange contrast to the brilliancy of the upper region in which I stood”.

–Louis Agassiz

“To myself, I confess that this now appears the strongest argument of all for considering the glacier as a united mass like a river, in which there is a nice equilibrium between the force of gravitation, acting by hydrostatic pressure, and the molecular resistance of the semi-solid; the degree of regularity of the law which connects the partial movements is wonderful, and I maintain that it is inexplicable except upon the viscous theory”.

–James D. Forbes
History of snow-cover research
Authors: Colbeck S.C.
Published: February 2018

The history of snow-cover research is divided into four distinct periods. Before 1900 there were systematic observations of snow but the tools were just being developed to begin serious research. From 1900 to 1936, many investigations were made because of the practical considerations of snow hydrology and snow avalanches. Individuals began the assessment of snow water equivalent for forecasting run-off and the observation of snow structure and texture. Quantitative and physical investigations quickened after government-sponsored laboratories were established in 1936, the same year as the founding of the International Glaciological Society. From 1936 through the 1960s, many detailed investigations were made into snow's physical properties and behavior. Professional societies organized national and regional meetings, and published the results of snow research. Many more laboratories became involved as knowledge about snow was developed and applied to run-off forecasting and avalanche defense. Snow research surged again during the 1970s with the establishment of a new generation of snow scientists using more advanced theory, computers, and instrumentation. As demands continue for solutions to snow problems with new emphasis on old themes, snow research generates knowledge about snow for a wide variety of applications.
Management of cauliflower seedling disease (Sclerotium rolfsii) in seedbed with different substrate based Trichoderma harzianum Bio-fungicides
Authors: Faruk MI , Rahman ML
Published: February 2018

Efficacy of rice bran, wheat bran, grass pea bran and their combinations with or without mustard oilcake (MOC) were tested as substrate of Trichoderma harzianum based bio-fungicides for the management of foot and root rot disease of cauliflower caused by Sclerotium rolfsii in the seedbed during three consecutive growing seasons from 2011 through 2014 in the net house of Bangladesh Agricultural Research Institute, Gazipur. The seedbed soil was inoculated with pathogen S. rolfsii colonized on barley grain before treatment with T. harzianum based bio-fungicides. The results of three years trial revealed that T. harzianum based bio-fungicides effectively reduced pre-emergence and post-emergence mortality of cauliflower seedling in seedbed. Besides, vegetative growth of cauliflower seedlings viz. shoot length, shoot weight, root length and root weight were enhanced significantly by different substrates based T. harzianum bio-fungicides in S. rolfsii sick seedbed. The substrates rice bran, wheat bran, grass pea bran and their combination with mustard oilcake (MOC) were equally suitable for effective formulation of T. harzianum bio-fungicides against foot and root rot disease of cauliflower in seedbed.Bangladesh J. Agril. Res. 42(4): 609-620, December 2017
Response of hybrid tomato varieties to boron application
Authors: Rashid MH , Kawochar MA , Sarker MAI , Hoque ME , Salahin N
Published: February 2018

A field experiment was carried out in Grey Terrace Soil of Joydebpur and Non Calcareous Grey Floodplain Soil of Agricultural Research Station, Burirhat, Rangpur during the rabi season of 2010-2011 and 2011-2012. The objectives were to evaluate the effect of boron on the yield and yield attributes of BARI Hybrid Tomato-5 as well as to determine an optimum rate of boron application for maximizing yield. Three varieties of BARI Hybrid Tomato-5 viz., Epoch, NS 815 and BARI Hybrid-5 and five levels of boron (0, 0.5, 1.0, 1.5 and 2.0 kgB ha-1) along with a blanket dose of N220 P60 K120 S40 Zn4.0 kg ha-1 and cow dung 5 t ha-1 were used in the study. Results revealed that NS 815 performed the best with 1.5 kg B ha-1 that produced 79.7 t ha-1 at Joydevpur whereas at Burirhat Epoch performed best (101 t/ha). The said combination increased 31.7% and 57.8% yield over the control at Joydevpur and Burirhat, respectively. However, from regression analysis, a positive but quadratic relationship was observed between yield and boron levels. The optimum dose of boron was appeared to be as 1.37 kg and 1.54 kg B ha-1 for Joydevpur and Burirhat, respectively.Bangladesh J. Agril. Res. 42(4): 707-714, December 2017
Recycling Improves Soil Fertility Management in Smallholdings in Tanzania
Authors: Krause Ariane , Rotter Vera
Published: February 2018

Residues from bioenergy and ecological sanitation (EcoSan) can be utilized to sustain soil fertility and productivity. With regard to certain cooking and sanitation technologies used in smallholder households (hh), we systematically analyzed how utilization of the respective potentials to recover residues for farming affects (i) soil nutrient balances, (ii) the potential for subsistence production of composts, and (iii) environmental emissions. On the example of an intercropping farming system in Karagwe, Tanzania, we studied specific farming practices including (1) current practices of using standard compost only; (2) a combination of using biogas slurry, urine, and standard compost; (3) a combination of using so-called “CaSa-compost” (containing biochar and sanitized human excreta, Project “Carbonization and Sanitation”), urine, and standard compost. The system analysis combines a soil nutrient balance (SNB) with material flow analysis (MFA). Currently, nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) are depleted by −54 ± 3 and −8 ± 1 kg∙ha−1∙year−1, respectively. Our analysis shows, however, a clear potential to reduce depletion rates of N, and to reverse the SNB of P, to bring about a positive outcome. Composts and biogas slurry supply sufficient P to crops, while urine effectively supplements N. By using resources recovered from cooking and sanitation, sufficient compost for subsistence farming may be produced. Human excreta contribute especially to total N and total P in CaSa-compost, whilst biochar recovered from cooking with microgasifier stoves adds to total carbon (C) and total P. We conclude that the combined recycling of household residues from cooking and from sanitation, and CaSa-compost in particular, is especially suitable for sustainable soil management, as it mitigates existing P-deficiency and soil acidity, and also restores soil organic matter.
A Possible Role for Singlet Oxygen in the Degradation of Various Antioxidants. A Meta-Analysis and Review of Literature Data
Authors: Petrou Athinoula , Petrou Petros , Ntanos Theodoros , Liapis Antonis
Published: February 2018

The thermodynamic parameters Eact, ΔH≠, ΔS≠, and ΔG≠ for various processes involving antioxidants were calculated using literature kinetic data (k, T). The ΔG≠ values of the antioxidants’ processes vary in the range 91.27–116.46 kJmol−1 at 310 K. The similarity of the ΔG≠ values (for all of the antioxidants studied) is supported to be an indication that a common mechanism in the above antioxidant processes may be taking place. A value of about 10–30 kJmol−1 is the activation energy for the diffusion of reactants depending on the reaction and the medium. The energy 92 kJmol−1 is needed for the excitation of O2 from the ground to the first excited state (1Δg, singlet oxygen). We suggest the same role of the oxidative stress and specifically of singlet oxygen to the processes of antioxidants as in the processes of proteinaceous diseases. We therefore suggest a competition between the various antioxidants and the proteins of proteinaceous diseases in capturing singlet oxygen’s empty π* orbital. The concentration of the antioxidants could be a crucial factor for the competition. Also, the structures of the antioxidant molecules play a significant role since the various structures have a different number of regions of high electron density.
Quasi-Static Elastography and Ultrasound Plane-Wave Imaging: The Effect of Beam-Forming Strategies on the Accuracy of Displacement Estimations
Authors: Hendriks Gijs , Chen Chuan , Hansen Hendrik , De Korte Chris
Published: February 2018

Quasi-static elastography is an ultrasound method which is widely used to assess displacements and strain in tissue by correlating ultrasound data at different levels of deformation. Ultrafast plane-wave imaging allows us to obtain ultrasound data at frame rates over 10 kHz, permitting the quantification and visualization of fast deformations. Currently, mainly three beam-forming strategies are used to reconstruct radio frequency (RF) data from plane-wave acquisitions: delay-and-sum (DaS), and Lu’s-fk and Stolt’s-fk operating in the temporal-spatial and Fourier spaces, respectively. However, the effect of these strategies on elastography is unknown. This study investigates the effect of these beam-forming strategies on the accuracy of displacement estimation in four transducers (L7-4, 12L4VF, L12-5, MS250) for various reconstruction line densities and apodization/filtering settings. A method was developed to assess the accuracy experimentally using displacement gradients obtained in a rotating phantom. A line density with multiple lines per pitch resulted in increased accuracy compared to one line per pitch for all transducers and strategies. The impact on displacement accuracy of apodization/filtering varied per transducer. Overall, Lu’s-fk beam-forming resulted in the most accurate displacement estimates. Although DaS in some cases provided similar results, Lu’s-fk is more computationally efficient, leading to the conclusion that Lu’s-fk is most optimal for plane wave ultrasound-based elastography.
Failure Monitoring and Condition Assessment of Steel-Concrete Adhesive Connection Using Ultrasonic Waves
Authors: Rucka Magdalena
Published: February 2018

Adhesive bonding is increasingly being incorporated into civil engineering applications. Recently, the use of structural adhesives in steel-concrete composite systems is of particular interest. The aim of the study is an experimental investigation of the damage assessment of the connection between steel and concrete during mechanical degradation. Nine specimens consisted of a concrete cube and two adhesively bonded steel plates were examined. The inspection was based on the ultrasound monitoring during push-out tests. Ultrasonic waves were excited and registered by means of piezoelectric transducers every two seconds until the specimen failure. To determine the slip between the steel and concrete a photogrammetric method was applied. The procedure of damage evaluation is based on the monitoring of the changes in the amplitude and phase shift of signals measured during subsequent phases of degradation. To quantify discrepancies between the reference signal and other registered signals, the Sprague and Gears metric was applied. The results showed the possibilities and limitations of the proposed approach in diagnostics of adhesive connections between steel and concrete depending on the failure modes.
Capacity Enhancement of Few-Mode Fiber Transmission Systems Impaired by Mode-Dependent Loss
Authors: Amhoud El-Mehdi , Rekaya-Ben Othman Ghaya , Jaouën Yves
Published: February 2018

Space-division multiplexing over few-mode fibers is a promising solution to increase the capacity of the future generation of optical transmission systems. Mode-dependent loss (MDL) is known to have a detrimental impact on the capacity of few-mode fiber systems. In the presence of MDL, spatial modes experience different attenuations which results in capacity reduction. In this work, we propose a digital signal processing solution and an optical solution to mitigate the impact of MDL and improve the channel capacity. First, we show that statistical channel state information can be used for a better power allocation for spatial modes instead of equal launch power to increase the system capacity. Afterwards, we propose a deterministic mode scrambling strategy to efficiently reduces the impact of MDL and improves few-mode fiber systems capacity. This scrambling strategy can be efficiently combined with the optimal power allocation to further enhance the capacity. Through numerical simulations of the average and outage capacities, we show that the proposed techniques bring significant capacity gains.
Surface Decorated Zn0.15Cd0.85S Nanoflowers with P25 for Enhanced Visible Light Driven Photocatalytic Degradation of Rh-B and Stability
Authors: Alomar Muneerah , Liu Yueli , Chen Wen
Published: February 2018

Decoration of Zn0.15Cd0.85S nanoflowers with P25 for forming P25/Zn0.15Cd0.85S nanocomposite has been successfully synthesized with fine crystallinity by one-step low temperature hydrothermal method. Photocatalytic efficiency of the as-prepared P25/Zn0.15Cd0.85S for the degradation of Rh-B is evaluated under the visible light irradiation. The synthesized composite is completely characterized with XRD, FESEM, TEM, BET, and UV-vis DRS. TEM observations reveal that P25 is closely deposited on the Zn0.15Cd0.85S nanoflowers with maintaining its nanoflower morphology. The photocatalytic activity of the as-obtained photocatalyst shows that the P25/Zn0.15Cd0.85S exhibits very high catalytic activity for degradation of Rh-B under visible light irradiation due to an increasing of the active sites and enhancing the catalyst stability because of the minimum recombination of the photo-induced electrons and holes. Moreover, it is found that the nanocomposite retains its photocatalytic activity even after four cycles. In addition, to explain the mechanism of degradation, scavengers are used to confirm the reactive species. Photo-generated holes and ●OH play a significant role in the visible light of P25/Zn0.15Cd0.85S nanocomposite induced degradation system, but electrons play the most important role.
Granular Activated Carbon from Grape Seeds Hydrothermal Char
Authors: Purnomo Chandra , Castello Daniele , Fiori Luca
Published: February 2018

A two-stage conversion process for the production of a valuable product from biomass waste, i.e., grape seeds activated carbon (GSAC) was investigated. Such process involved hydrothermal carbonization (HTC) of grape seeds, followed by chemical activation with potassium hydroxide (KOH). Different HTC temperatures (THTC = 180–250 °C), as well as different KOH:hydrochar ratios (R = 0.25:1–1:1), were explored. The samples that were obtained from both stages of the biomass conversion process were analyzed in terms of textural characterization (apparent total and micro-pore surface areas, total and micro-pore volumes, pore size distribution), proximate and ultimate compositions, thermal stability, surface morphology (via SEM), and surface chemistry characterization (via FTIR). Overall yields of approximately 35% were achieved, which are comparable to those obtained with the state-of-art one-stage process. In a wide range of operating conditions, the higher THTC and R, the higher was the surface area of the GSAC, which was maximal (above 1000 m2/g) for THTC = 250 °C and R = 0.5. At such optimal conditions, around 90% of the total porosity was due to micro-pores. Such a trend was not fulfilled at the most severe operating conditions (THTC = 250 °C; R = 1), which resulted in larger pore size, causing surface area reduction. A proper selection of the process parameters of both the process stages gives great opportunities of tuning and optimizing the overall process. The produced GSACs showed a remarkable thermal stability, and their surface appeared rather free of functional groups.
The Effect of Correlation on Spectra of the Lanthanides: Pr3+
Authors: Froese Fischer Charlotte , Gaigalas Gediminas
Published: February 2018

The effect of correlation on the spectra of lanthanide ions has been investigated using variational methods based on multiconfiguration Dirac–Hartree–Fock (MCDHF) theory. Results from several computational models are reported for Pr3+. The first assumes an inactive Cd-like 4 d 10 core with valence electrons in 4 f 2 5 s 2 5 p 6 subshells. Additional models extend correlation to include core effects. It is shown that, with such models, the difference between computed energy levels and those from observed data increases with the energy of the level, suggesting that correlation among outer electrons should also be based on the correlated core of excited configuration state functions (CSFs). Some M1 transition probabilities are reported for the most accurate model and compared with predictions obtained from semi-empirical methods.
Evaluation of Peripheral Blood and Cord Blood Platelet Lysates in Isolation and Expansion of Multipotent Mesenchymal Stromal Cells
Authors: Christou Ioanna , Mallis Panagiotis , Michalopoulos Efstathios , Chatzistamatiou Theofanis , Mermelekas George , Zoidakis Jerome , Vlahou Antonia , Stavropoulos-Giokas Catherine
Published: February 2018

Background: Multipotent Mesenchymal Stromal Cells (MSCs) are used in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. The in vitro isolation and expansion of MSCs involve the use of foetal bovine serum (FBS). However, many concerns have been raised regarding the safety of this product. In this study, alternative additives derived either from peripheral or cord blood were tested as an FBS replacement. Methods: Platelet lysates (PL) from peripheral and cord blood were used for the expansion of MSCs. The levels of growth factors in peripheral blood (PB) and cord blood (CB) PLs were determined using the Multiple Reaction Monitoring (MRM). Finally, the cell doubling time (CDT), tri-lineage differentiation and phenotypic characterization of the MSCs expanded with FBS and PLs were determined. Results: MSCs treated with culture media containing FBS and PB-PL, were successfully isolated and expanded, whereas MSCs treated with CB-PL could not be maintained in culture. Furthermore, the MRM analysis yielded differences in growth factor levels between PB-PL and CB-PL. In addition, the MSCs were successfully expanded with FBS and PB-PL and exhibited tri-lineage differentiation and stable phenotypic characteristics. Conclusion: PB-PL could be used as an alternative additive for the production of MSCs culture medium applied to xenogeneic-free expansion and maintenance of MSCs in large scale clinical studies.
Emerging Methodologies in Pediatric Palliative Care Research: Six Case Studies
Authors: Nelson Katherine , Feinstein James , Gerhardt Cynthia , Rosenberg Abby , Widger Kimberley , Faerber Jennifer , Feudtner Chris
Published: February 2018

Given the broad focus of pediatric palliative care (PPC) on the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of children with potentially life-limiting illnesses and their families, PPC research requires creative methodological approaches. This manuscript, written by experienced PPC researchers, describes issues encountered in our own areas of research and the novel methods we have identified to target them. Specifically, we discuss potential approaches to: assessing symptoms among nonverbal children, evaluating medical interventions, identifying and treating problems related to polypharmacy, addressing missing data in longitudinal studies, evaluating longer-term efficacy of PPC interventions, and monitoring for inequities in PPC service delivery.
Towards the Integrated Study of Urban Climate, Air Pollution, and Public Health
Authors: Salmond Jennifer , Sabel Clive , Vardoulakis Sotiris
Published: February 2018

Globally, cities are growing at an unprecedented pace, putting pressure on space, existing infrastructure, and resources.[...]