bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Magnetic Resonance Imaging of Atherosclerotic Plaque at Clinically Relevant Field Strengths (1T) by Targeting the Integrin α4β1
Authors: Woodside Darren G. , Tanifum Eric A. , Ghaghada Ketan B. , Biediger Ronald J. , Caivano Amy R. , Starosolski Zbigniew A. , Khounlo Sayadeth , Bhayana Saakshi , Abbasi Shahrzad , Craft John W. , Maxwell David S. , Patel Chandreshkumar , Stupin Igor V. , Bakthavatsalam Deenadayalan , Market Robert V. , Willerson James T. , Dixon Richard A. F. , Vanderslice Peter , Annapragada Ananth V.
Published: February 2018

Inflammation drives the degradation of atherosclerotic plaque, yet there are no non-invasive techniques available for imaging overall inflammation in atherosclerotic plaques, especially in the coronary arteries. To address this, we have developed a clinically relevant system to image overall inflammatory cell burden in plaque. Here, we describe a targeted contrast agent (THI0567-targeted liposomal-Gd) that is suitable for magnetic resonance (MR) imaging and binds with high affinity and selectivity to the integrin α4β1(very late antigen-4, VLA-4), a key integrin involved in recruiting inflammatory cells to atherosclerotic plaques. This liposomal contrast agent has a high T1 relaxivity (~2 × 105 mM−1s−1on a particle basis) resulting in the ability to image liposomes at a clinically relevant MR field strength. We were able to visualize atherosclerotic plaques in various regions of the aorta in atherosclerosis-prone ApoE−/−mice on a 1 Tesla small animal MRI scanner. These enhanced signals corresponded to the accumulation of monocyte/macrophages in the subendothelial layer of atherosclerotic plaquesin vivo, whereas non-targeted liposomal nanoparticles did not demonstrate comparable signal enhancement. An inflammatory cell-targeted method that has the specificity and sensitivity to measure the inflammatory burden of a plaque could be used to noninvasively identify patients at risk of an acute ischemic event.
Continental-scale animal tracking reveals functional movement classes across marine taxa
Authors: Brodie Stephanie , Lédée Elodie J. I. , Heupel Michelle R. , Babcock Russell C. , Campbell Hamish A. , Gledhill Daniel C. , Hoenner Xavier , Huveneers Charlie , Jaine Fabrice R. A. , Simpfendorfer Colin A. , Taylor Matthew D. , Udyawer Vinay , Harcourt Robert G.
Published: February 2018

Acoustic telemetry is a principle tool for observing aquatic animals, but coverage over large spatial scales remains a challenge. To resolve this, Australia has implemented the Integrated Marine Observing System’s Animal Tracking Facility which comprises a continental-scale hydrophone array and coordinated data repository. This national acoustic network connects localized projects, enabling simultaneous monitoring of multiple species over scales ranging from 100 s of meters to 1000 s of kilometers. There is a need to evaluate the utility of this national network in monitoring animal movement ecology, and to identify the spatial scales that the network effectively operates over. Cluster analyses assessed movements and residency of 2181 individuals from 92 species, and identified four functional movement classes apparent only through aggregating data across the entire national network. These functional movement classes described movement metrics of individuals rather than species, and highlighted the plasticity of movement patterns across and within populations and species. Network analyses assessed the utility and redundancy of each component of the national network, revealing multiple spatial scales of connectivity influenced by the geographic positioning of acoustic receivers. We demonstrate the significance of this nationally coordinated network of receivers to better reveal intra-specific differences in movement profiles and discuss implications for effective management.
Enteropathogenic E. coli effectors EspF and Map independently disrupt tight junctions through distinct mechanisms involving transcriptional and post-transcriptional regulation
Authors: Singh Anand Prakash , Sharma Swati , Pagarware Kirti , Siraji Rafay Anwar , Ansari Imran , Mandal Anupam , Walling Pangertoshi , Aijaz Saima
Published: February 2018

Enteropathogenic E. coli infection is characterized by rapid onset of diarrhea but the underlying mechanisms are not well defined. EPEC targets the tight junctions which selectively regulate the permeability of charged and uncharged molecules. Cooperative actions of the EPEC effectors EspF and Map have been reported to mediate tight junction disruption. To analyze the individual contributions of EspF and Map, we generated in vitro models where EspF and Map, derived from the EPEC strain E2348/69, were constitutively expressed in epithelial cells. Here we report that tight junction disruption by EspF and Map is caused by the inhibition of the junctional recruitment of proteins during tight junction assembly. Constitutive expression of EspF and Map depleted the levels of tight junction proteins. EspF down-regulated the transcript levels of claudin-1, occludin and ZO-1, while Map down-regulated only claudin-1 transcripts. Both effectors also caused lysosomal degradation of existing tight junction proteins. We also identified a novel interaction of Map with non-muscle myosin II. Consistent with earlier studies, EspF was found to interact with ZO-1 while actin was the common interacting partner for both effectors. Our data provides evidence for the distinct roles of Map and EspF in tight junction disruption through non-synergistic functions.
Proximity effects across oxide-interfaces of superconductor-insulator-ferromagnet hybrid heterostructure
Authors: Prajapat C. L. , Singh Surendra , Bhattacharya D. , Ravikumar G. , Basu S. , Mattauch S. , Zheng Jian-Guo , Aoki T. , Paul Amitesh
Published: February 2018

A case study of electron tunneling or charge-transfer-driven orbital ordering in superconductor (SC)-ferromagnet (FM) interfaces has been conducted in heteroepitaxial YBa2Cu3O7(YBCO)/La0.67Sr0.33MnO3(LSMO) multilayers interleaved with and without an insulating SrTiO3(STO) layer between YBCO and LSMO. X-ray magnetic circular dichroism experiments revealed anti-parallel alignment of Mn magnetic moments and induced Cu magnetic moments in a YBCO/LSMO multilayer. As compared to an isolated LSMO layer, the YBCO/LSMO multilayer displayed a (50%) weaker Mn magnetic signal, which is related to the usual proximity effect. It was a surprise that a similar proximity effect was also observed in a YBCO/STO/LSMO multilayer, however, the Mn signal was reduced by 20%. This reduced magnetic moment of Mn was further verified by depth sensitive polarized neutron reflectivity. Electron energy loss spectroscopy experiment showed the evidence of Ti magnetic polarization at the interfaces of the YBCO/STO/LSMO multilayer. This crossover magnetization is due to a transfer of interface electrons that migrate from Ti(4+)−δ to Mn at the STO/LSMO interface and to Cu2+ at the STO/YBCO interface, with hybridization via O 2p orbitals. So charge-transfer driven orbital ordering is the mechanism responsible for the observed proximity effect and Mn-Cu anti-parallel coupling in YBCO/STO/LSMO. This work provides an effective pathway in understanding the aspect of long range proximity effect and consequent orbital degeneracy parameter in magnetic coupling.
Effective gamma-ray sterilization and characterization of conductive polypyrrole biomaterials
Authors: Kim Semin , Jeong Jin-Oh , Lee Sanghun , Park Jong-Seok , Gwon Hui-Jeong , Jeong Sung In , Hardy John George , Lim Youn-Mook , Lee Jae Young
Published: February 2018

Conductive polymers, including polypyrrole (PPy), have been extensively explored to fabricate electrically conductive biomaterials for bioelectrodes and tissue engineering scaffolds. For their in vivo uses, a sterilization method without severe impairment of original material properties and performance is necessary. Gamma-ray radiation has been commonly applied for sterilization of medical products because of its simple and uniform sterilization without heat generation. Herein we describe the first study on gamma-ray sterilization of PPy bioelectrodes and its effects on their characteristics. We irradiated PPy bioelectrodes with different doses (0–75 kGy) of gamma-rays. Gamma-ray irradiation of the PPy (γ-PPy) increased the oxygenation and hydrophilicity of the surfaces. Interestingly, gamma-ray irradiation did not alter the electrical impedances and conductivities of the PPy substrates. Additionally, γ-PPy prepared with various dopants (e.g., para-toluene sulfonate, polystyrene sulfonate, and chlorine) showed the electrochemical properties similar to the non-irradiated control. Gamma-ray irradiation at doses of ≥15 kGy was required for effective sterilization as evidenced by complete eradication of gram positive and negative bacteria. γ-PPy substrates also showed cytocompatibility similar to untreated control PPy, indicating no substantial alteration of cytocompatibility. In conclusion, gamma ray sterilization is a viable method of sterilization of conducting polymer-based biomaterials for biomedical applications.
Fabrication and Characterization of a Magnetic Drilling Actuator for Navigation in a Three-dimensional Phantom Vascular Network
Authors: Lee Sunkey , Lee Seungmin , Kim Sangwon , Yoon Chang-Hwan , Park Hun-Jun , Kim Jin-young , Choi Hongsoo
Published: February 2018

Intravascular microrobots have emerged as a promising tool for vascular diseases. They can be wirelessly and precisely manipulated with a high degree of freedom. Previous studies have evaluated their drilling performance and locomotion, and showed the feasibility of using microrobots for biomedical applications in two-dimensional space. However, it is critical to validate micro-drillers in a three-dimensional (3D) environment because gravity plays an important role in a 3D environment and significantly affects the performance of the micro-drillers in vascular networks. In this work, we fabricated magnetic drilling actuators (MDAs) and characterized their locomotion and drilling performance in vascular network-mimicking fluidic channels. The MDAs were precisely manipulated in the fluidic channel network in both horizontal and vertical planes, selecting and moving through the desired path via the junctions of multiple channels. The MDAs also accurately navigated an artificial thrombosis in an artificial 3D vascular network and successfully drilled through it. The results obtained here confirmed the precise manipulation and drilling performance of the developed MDAs in 3D. We think that the MDAs presented in this paper have great potential as intravascular drillers for precise thrombus treatment.
A validation and extended description of the Lund taxonomy for urothelial carcinoma using the TCGA cohort
Authors: Marzouka Nour-al-dain , Eriksson Pontus , Rovira Carlos , Liedberg Fredrik , Sjödahl Gottfrid , Höglund Mattias
Published: February 2018

Global gene expression analysis has been a major tool for urothelial carcinoma subtype discovery. This approach has revealed extensive complexity both in intrinsic features of the tumor cells and in the microenvironment. However, global gene expression cannot distinguish between gene expression signals originating from the tumor cells proper and from normal cells in the biopsy. Here, we use a large cohort of advanced urothelial carcinomas for which both gene expression data and extensive immunohistochemistry are available to create a supervised mRNA expression centroid classifier. This classifier identifies the major Lund taxonomy tumor cell phenotypes as defined by IHC. We apply this classifier to the independent TCGA dataset and show excellent associations between identified subtypes and genomic features. We validate a progressed version of Urothelial-like A (UroA-Prog) that shows FGFR3 mutations and CDKN2A deletions, and we show that the variant Urothelial-like C is almost devoid of FGFR3 mutations. We show that Genomically Unstable tumors are very distinct from Urothelial-like tumors at the genomic level, and that tumors classified as Basal/SCC-like all complied with the established definition for Basal/SCC-like tumors. We identify the Mesenchymal-like and Small-cell/Neuroendocrine-like subtypes, and demonstrate that patients with UroB and Sc/NE-like tumors show the worst overall survival.
Phylogeny and evolution of Müllerian mimicry in aposematic Dilophotes: evidence for advergence and size-constraints in evolution of mimetic sexual dimorphism
Authors: Motyka Michal , Kampova Lucie , Bocak Ladislav
Published: February 2018

Multiple patterns and intraspecific polymorphism should not persist in mutualistic Müllerian systems due to purifying and frequency-dependent selection, but they are commonly identified in nature. We analysed molecular phylogeny and reconstructed dispersal history of 58 species ofDilophotes(Coleoptera: Lycidae) in Asia.Dilophotescolonized the Great Sundas and Malay Peninsula where they joined extensive mimetic communities of net-winged beetles. We identified the brightly bi-coloured males and females which adverged on five occasions to different autochthonous models. This is the first described case of Müllerian sexual dimorphism based on sex-specific body size. We propose that the constraint, i.e. the conservative sexual size dimorphism, forced the unprofitable prey to such complex adaptation in a multi-pattern environment. Although mimetic sexual dimorphism has frequently evolved inDilophotes, a single pattern has been maintained by both sexes in multiple closely related, sympatrically occurring species. Some patterns may be suboptimal because they are rare, crudely resemble co-mimics, or are newly evolved, but they persist in Müllerian communities for a long time. We assume that failure to closely resemble the most common model can increase the diversity of large Müllerian communities and produce mimetic dimorphism.
Hypoxia activates enhanced invasive potential and endogenous hyaluronic acid production by glioblastoma cells
Authors: Chen Jee-Wei Emily , Lumibao Jan , Blazek Audrey , Gaskins H. Rex , Harley Brendan
Published: February 2018

Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most common, aggressive, and deadly form of adult brain cancer, and is associated with a short survival rate (median 12–15 months, 5+ year less than 5%).
Polymer tube nanoreactors via DNA-origami templated synthesis
Authors: Tokura Yu , Harvey Sean , Xu Xuemei , Chen Chaojian , Morsbach Svenja , Wunderlich Katrin , Fytas George , Wu Yuzhou , Ng David Y. W. , Weil Tanja
Published: February 2018

We describe the stepwise synthesis of precise polymeric objects programmed by a 3D DNA tube transformed from a common 2D DNA tile as a precise biotemplate for atom transfer radical polymerization.
Growth mechanisms of fiber-like and dendrite-like boron in a Cu melt
Authors: Wu Yuying , Sun Zuxin , Zhao Shuo , Han Xiaoxiao , Liu Xiangfa
Published: February 2018

There are two types of eutectic boron in Cu–B alloy,i.e.fiber-like eutectic boron and dendrite-like eutectic boron. The fiber-like eutectic boron has a tetragonal structure, and it can be used to prepare boron nanowires. The dendrite-like eutectic boron has a rhombohedral structure, and twin growth facilitates its dendrite growth.
Depolymerization of sodium polyphosphates on an iron oxide surface at high temperature
Authors: Le M. H. , Tieu A. K. , Zhu H. , Ta D. T. , Yu H. , Ta T. T. H. , Tran V. N. , Wan S.
Published: February 2018

Analysis of surface and chain length effects on the depolymerization of a phosphate-based lubricant at elevated temperature using first principles calculations.
Water-enriched poly(ionic liquid)s: highly-efficient microreactors for the hydrolysis of ethylene carbonate
Authors: Zhang Yongya , Chen Bihua , Zhang Yifeng , Qin Li , Liu Bo , Ni Bing , Gao Guohua
Published: February 2018

Water enrichment ability increased the catalytic efficiency of PIL microreactors in the hydrolysis of EC.
Quantifying orientational regeneration of injured neurons by natural product concentration gradients in a 3D microfluidic device
Authors: Tang Yun , Qiu Quan-Fa , Zhang Fu-Li , Xie Min , Huang Wei-Hua
Published: February 2018

We developed a microfluidic device which can provide multiple adjustable gradients in a 3D extracellular matrix to investigate regeneration of injured central nervous system neurons in response to natural small molecules.
Metabolic transformation and urinary excretion of selenium (Se) in rats fed a Se-enriched defatted rapeseed (Brassica napus, L.) diet
Authors: Čadková Zuzana , Száková Jiřina , Tremlová Jana , Kopecký Oldřich , Žíla Ondřej , Tlustoš Pavel
Published: February 2018

Se-enriched defatted rapeseed can be a suitable Se-supplement in diet of monogasters.
Preparation, characterization and in vitro study of liposomal curcumin powder by cost effective nanofiber weaving technology
Authors: Gopi Sreeraj , Amalraj Augustine , Jacob Joby , Kalarikkal Nandakumar , Thomas Sabu , Guo Qipeng
Published: February 2018

Liposomes can facilitate the incorporation of both hydrophilic and hydrophobic molecules into nutraceutical products through a constructive impact on their stability, drug delivery and bioavailability.
p-Hexafluoroisopropanol phenyl functionalized graphene for QCM based detection of dimethyl methylphosphonate, a simulant of the nerve agent sarin
Authors: Shaik Mahabul , Rao V. Kameswara , Ramana G. V. , Halder M. , Gutch P. K. , Pandey P. , Jain R.
Published: February 2018

The hexafluoroisopropanol moiety was grafted onto graphene and used as a sensing layer for the detection of a nerve agent simulant using QCM.
Graphene-supported platinum/nickel phosphide electrocatalyst with improved activity and stability for methanol oxidation
Authors: Cao Jiamu , Chen Hailong , Zhang Xuelin , Zhang Yufeng , Liu Xiaowei
Published: February 2018

In this paper, we report a novel catalyst using Ni2P as a cocatalyst of Pt supported on graphene for methanol oxidation.
Reconstitution of composite actin and keratin networks in vesicles
Authors: Deek J. , Maan R. , Loiseau E. , Bausch A. R.
Published: February 2018

Interpenetrating actin filaments prevent the collapse of the keratin network in their composite structures.
Preparation and functionalization of acetylsalicylic acid loaded chitosan/gelatin membranes from ethanol-based suspensionsviaelectrophoretic deposition
Authors: Wang Fushi , Huang Pin , Huang Dan , Hu Yinghui , Ma Kena , Cai Xinjie , Jiang Tao
Published: February 2018

Ethanol dissolved acetylsalicylic acid was successfully loaded with chitosan/gelatinviaEPD and showed outstanding osteogenesis and mechanical properties.
Phosphine-free synthesis and shape evolution of MoSe2 nanoflowers for electrocatalytic hydrogen evolution reactions
Authors: Zhang Chi , Chen Xing , Peng Zhiwei , Fu Xiaoming , Lian Linyuan , Luo Wei , Zhang Jianbing , Li Honglang , Wang YuHuang , Zhang Daoli
Published: February 2018

Free-standing colloidal MoSe2 nanoflowers were synthesized by a phosphine-free solution-processing approach, which showed good electrocatalytic activities.
Synthesis and properties of N-methylimidazole solvates of vanadium(ii), chromium(ii) and iron(ii) phthalocyanines. Strong NIR absorption in VII(MeIm)2(Pc2−)
Authors: Konarev Dmitri V. , Kuzmin Alexey V. , Nakano Yoshiaki , Khasanov Salavat S. , Otsuka Akihiro , Yamochi Hideki , Kitagawa Hiroshi , Lyubovskaya Rimma N.
Published: February 2018

Crystal structures and optical and magnetic properties of N-methylimidazole (MeIm) solvates of vanadium(ii), chromium(ii) and iron(ii) phthalocyanines have been studied.
Flow dynamics control endothelial permeability in a microfluidic vessel bifurcation model
Authors: Akbari Ehsan , Spychalski Griffin B. , Rangharajan Kaushik K. , Prakash Shaurya , Song Jonathan W.
Published: February 2018

Endothelial barrier function is known to be regulated by a number of molecular mechanisms; however, the role of biomechanical signals associated with blood flow is comparatively less explored.
Recent progress of C-glycosylation methods in the total synthesis of natural products and pharmaceuticals
Authors: Liao Hongze , Ma Jimei , Yao Hui , Liu Xue-Wei
Published: February 2018

C-Glycosylation has found widespread use in the synthesis of biomedically important natural products and pharmaceuticals.
A series of two-photon absorption pyridinium sulfonate inner salts targeting endoplasmic reticulum (ER), inducing cellular stress and mitochondria-mediated apoptosis in cancer cells
Authors: Hussain Sajid , Du Wei , Zhang Mingzhu , Fang Bin , Zhang Guocui , Su Rina , Nan Keqian , Zhang Qiong , Tian Xiaohe , Tian Yupeng , Chen Yan
Published: February 2018

DiphenthioER1is a novel two-photon active pyridinium derivative that labels ER and causes nuclear misshaping and mitochondria-mediated apoptosis.
Developed one-pot synthesis of dual-color CdSe quantum dots for white light-emitting diode application
Authors: Dai Sheng , Siao Cyuan-Bin , Chung Shu-Ru , Wang Kuan-Wen , Pan Xiaoqing
Published: February 2018

The size and fraction of red and green CdSe QDs can be controlled precisely during the synthetic process, thus manifesting remarkably enhanced stability.
Development of fault‐tolerant MLI topology
Authors: Jalhotra Manik , Kumar Lalit , Gautam Shivam Prakash , Gupta Shubhrata
Published: February 2018

Multilevel inverters (MLIs) have developed deep roots in various industrial sectors owing to their advantages over conventional two‐level inverters. However, the reliability of the semiconductor devices has been one of the major concerns for the proper functioning of MLI. Therefore, a novel fault‐tolerant topology is proposed in this study. The proposed topology is capable to tolerate single‐ and multi‐switch faults. It has lesser device count compared with the most recent work in the field. Moreover, it achieves inherent voltage balancing across capacitors. The proposed fault‐tolerant topology is simulated in MATLAB/Simulink and validated experimentally.
Sub‐synchronous oscillation in PMSGs based wind farms caused by amplification effect of GSC controller and PLL to harmonics
Authors: Xu Yanhui , Cao Yuping
Published: February 2018

Sub‐synchronous oscillation (SSO) caused by direct‐drive permanent magnet synchronous generators (PMSGs) occurs frequently in Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China. As a new type of SSO, the mechanism of power oscillation triggered by PMSGs has not been clarified yet. In this study, a small‐signal analysis method was used to investigate the response process of the grid‐side converter (GSC) controller and a phase‐locked loop (PLL) to harmonics. Components with the same frequency of input disturbance signal and an output signal which generated by response process of controller superpose at the outlet of PMSGs could be amplified by positive feedback. Amplified harmonics will cause sustained power oscillation in sub‐synchronous frequency. A criterion for judging dangerous frequencies of SSO was deduced based on phase relation between input and output signals, and the form of output signal was predicted under the condition of certain parameters setting. The theoretical analysis is then validated by the simulation results and the on‐site data measured by the phasor measurement unit. Furthermore, the impacts of GSC and PLL parameters on SSO were discussed. This study provides the theoretical basis for SSO mechanism and judgement method in practical engineering.
Towards a classification of surgical skills using affine velocity
Authors: Cifuentes Jenny , Pham Minh Tu , Boulanger Pierre , Moreau Richard , Prieto Flavio
Published: February 2018

The aim of this study is to determine if navigation movements, used in surgical training, follow a particular power law which describes the relationship between the hand trajectory's curvature, torsion, and speed. Based on this approach, this study proposes the affine velocity as an appropriate classification feature to solve the surgical movement recognition problem. Eight subjects with different surgical experience were involved in the experiments. They were asked to do two kinds of movements that involve depth perception skills with their right arm. Using six video cameras and an instrumented laparoscope, the 3D trajectory of the end effector was recorded for each participant. A power law was used to fit the data sets and the exponents that relate the torsion, curvature, and speed were calculated. The exponents involved and the affine velocity for each trajectory were then computed, using a multi‐variable linear regression, and compared between participants. It is shown that fitting residual follows a normal distribution indicating no regression biases. Finally, it is presented that an affine velocity analysis could be able to classify between both trajectories showing a correlation with the surgical skills and a clear difference for people with some surgical training.
Spatial variations of the Sr I 4607 Å scattering polarization peak
Authors: Bianda M. , Berdyugina S. , Gisler D. , Ramelli R. , Belluzzi L. , Carlin E. S. , Stenflo J. O. , Berkefeld T.
Published: February 2018

Context. The scattering polarization signal observed in the photospheric Sr I 4607 Å line is expected to vary at granular spatial scales. This variation can be due to changes in the magnetic field intensity and orientation (Hanle effect), but also to spatial and temporal variations in the plasma properties. Measuring the spatial variation of such polarization signal would allow us to study the properties of the magnetic fields at subgranular scales, but observations are challenging since both high spatial resolution and high spectropolarimetric sensitivity are required.

Aims. We aim to provide observational evidence of the polarization peak spatial variations, and to analyze the correlation they might have with granulation.

Methods. Observations conjugating high spatial resolution and high spectropolarimetric precision were performed with the Zurich IMaging POLarimeter, ZIMPOL, at the GREGOR solar telescope, taking advantage of the adaptive optics system and the newly installed image derotator.

Results. Spatial variations of the scattering polarization in the Sr I 4607 Å line are clearly observed. The spatial scale of these variations is comparable with the granular size. Small correlations between the polarization signal amplitude and the continuum intensity indicate that the polarization is higher at the center of granules than in the intergranular lanes.
The emergence of the galactic stellar mass function from a non-universal IMF in clusters
Authors: Dib Sami , Basu Shantanu
Published: February 2018

We investigate the dependence of a single-generation galactic mass function (SGMF) on variations in the initial stellar mass functions (IMF) of stellar clusters. We show that cluster-to-cluster variations of the IMF lead to a multi-component SGMF where each component in a given mass range can be described by a distinct power-law function. We also show that a dispersion of ≈0.3 M⊙ in the characteristic mass of the IMF, as observed for young Galactic clusters, leads to a low-mass slope of the SGMF that matches the observed Galactic stellar mass function even when the IMFs in the low-mass end of individual clusters are much steeper.
Using a Fuzzy Light Sensor to Improve the Efficiency of Solar Panels
Authors: Suryono Suryono , Endro Suseno Jatmiko , Khuriati Riza Sulistiati Ainie , Prahara Tahan
Published: February 2018

Solar panel efficiency can be increased by improving the quality of photovoltaic material, the effectiveness of electronic circuit, and the light source tracking model. This research is aimed at improving the quality of solar panels by tracking light source using a fuzzy logic sensor. A fuzzy light sensor property is obtained from two LDR (light dependent resistor) light sensors installed in parallel to each other and is given a light separator in between them. Both sensors are mounted on a solar panel. Sensor output is acquired using a 12 bit ADC from an ATSAM3XE microcontroller and is then sent to a computer using WIFI radio. A PID (Proportional-Integral-Derivative) control algorithm is used to manage the position of the solar panel in line with the input given by the fuzzy light sensor. This control mechanism works based on the margin of fuzzy membership from both sensors that is used to move a motor DC that in turn moves the solar panel. Experimental results show a characteristically symmetrical fuzzy membership of both sensors with a reflected correlation of R=0.9981 after gains from both sensors are arranged with a program. Upon being tested in the field, this system was capable of improving the performance of solar panels in gaining power compared to their original fixed position. The discrepancy was evident when the angle of incoming sunlight approached both 0° and 180°. Further calculations of data acquired by the fuzzy light sensor show increased solar panel power efficiency by up to 5.6%.
CFD Analysis to Calculate the Optimal Air Velocity in Drying Green Tea Process Using Fluidized Bed Dryer
Authors: Yohana Eflita , Prasetya Nugraha Afif , Eva Diana Ade , Mahawan Ilham , Nugroho Sri
Published: February 2018

Tea processing is basically distinguished into three types which black tea, green tea, and oolong tea. Green tea is processed by heating and drying the leaves. Green tea factories in Indonesia are generally using the process of drying by panning the leaves. It is more recommended to use the fluidization process to speed up the drying process as the quality of the tea can be maintained. Bubbling fluidization is expected to occur in this research. It is a process of bubbles are formed in the fluidization. The effectiveness of the drying process in a fluidized bed dryer machine needs to be improved by using a CFD simulation method to proof that umf < u < ut, where the average velocity value is limited by the minimum and the maximum velocity of the calculation the experimental data. The minimum and the maximum velocity value of the fluidization is 0.96 m/s and 8.2 m/s. The result of the simulation obtained that the average velocity of the upper bed part is 1.81 m/s. From the results obtained, it can be concluded that the calculation and the simulation data is in accordance with the condition of bubbling fluidization in fluidized bed dryer.
Geomagnetic Survey to Explore High-Temperature Geothermal System in Blawan-Ijen, East Java, Indonesia
Authors: Daud Yunus , Rosid Syamsu , Fahmi Fikri , Maulana Yunus Faris , Muflihendri Reza
Published: February 2018

Ijen geothermal area is high-temperature geothermal system located in Bondowoso regency, East Java. It is categorized as caldera-hosted geothermal system which is covered by quaternary andesitic volcanic rocks with steep topography at the surrounding. Several surface thermal manifestations are found, such as altered rocks near Mt. Kukusan and a group of Blawan hotsprings in the northern part of the caldera. Geomagnetic survey was conducted at 72 stations which is distributed inside the caldera to delineate the existence of hydrothermal activity. Magnetic anomaly was obtained by reducing total magnetic measured on the field by IGRF and diurnal variation. Reduction to pole (RTP) method was applied with geomagnetic inclination of about -32°. In general, the result shows that high magnetic anomaly is distributed at the boundary of study area, while low magnetic anomaly is observed in the centre. The low anomaly indicates demagnetized rock that probably caused by hydrothermal activity. It has a good correlation with surface alteration observed close to Mt. Kukusan as well as high temperature reservoir drilled in the centre of caldera. Accordingly, the low magnetic anomaly also presents the possibility of geothermal reservoir in Ijen geothermal area.
Potential of Electric Power Production from Microbial Fuel Cell (MFC) in Evapotranspiration Reactor for Leachate Treatment Using Alocasia macrorrhiza Plant and Eleusine indica Grass
Authors: Zaman Badrus , Wisnu Wardhana Irawan
Published: February 2018

Microbial fuel cell is one of attractive electric power generator from nature bacterial activity. While, Evapotranspiration is one of the waste water treatment system which developed to eliminate biological weakness that utilize the natural evaporation process and bacterial activity on plant roots and plant media. This study aims to determine the potential of electrical energy from leachate treatment using evapotranspiration reactor. The study was conducted using local plant, namely Alocasia macrorrhiza and local grass, namely Eleusine Indica. The system was using horizontal MFC by placing the cathodes and anodes at different chamber (i.e. in the leachate reactor and reactor with plant media). Carbon plates was used for chatode-anodes material with size of 40 cm x 10 cm x1 cm. Electrical power production was measure by a digital multimeter for 30 days reactor operation. The result shows electric power production was fluctuated during reactor operation from all reactors. The electric power generated from each reactor was fluctuated, but from the reactor using Alocasia macrorrhiza plant reach to 70 μwatt average. From the reactor using Eleusine Indica grass was reached 60 μwatt average. Electric power production fluctuation is related to the bacterial growth pattern in the soil media and on the plant roots which undergo the adaptation process until the middle of the operational period and then in stable growth condition until the end of the reactor operation. The results indicate that the evapotranspiration reactor using Alocasia macrorrhiza plant was 60-95% higher electric power potential than using Eleusine Indica grass in short-term (30-day) operation. Although, MFC system in evapotranspiration reactor system was one of potential system for renewable electric power generation.
Solar Water Heating System for Biodiesel Production
Authors: Syaifurrahman  , Usman A Gani , Rinjani Rakasiwi
Published: February 2018

Nowadays, electricity become very expensive thing in some remote areas. Energy from solar panels give the solution as renewable energy that is environment friendly. West Borneo is located on the equator where the sun shines for almost 10-15 hours/day. Solar water heating system which is includes storage tank and solar collections becomes a cost-effective way to generate the energy. Solar panel heat water is delivered to water in storage tank. Hot water is used as hot fluid in biodiesel jacked reactor. The purposes of this research are to design Solar Water Heating System for Biodiesel Production and measure the rate of heat-transfer water in storage tank. This test has done for 6 days, every day from 8.30 am until 2.30 pm. Storage tank and collection are made from stainless steel and polystyrene a well-insulated. The results show that the heater can be reach at 50ºC for ±2.5 hours and the maximum temperature is 62ºC where the average of light intensity is 1280 lux.
Preliminary Study on the Location Selection of Microalgae Cultivation In Nusa Tenggara Region As A Potential Feedstock For Bioavtur
Authors: Permata Kusuma Anggraini Rr. Citra , Adi Sasongko Nugroho , Dwi Kuntjoro Yanif
Published: February 2018

NTT is a province located in strategic areas between Bali and South Sulawesi which has economic growth 5,08% in 2016. This causes air transportation in NTT to grow rapidly so the need for avtur is increased by 6% per year. To meet the needs of avtur in NTT would require energy diversification with bioavtur development in which one of them comes from microalgae. The content of lipid and hydrocarbon in microalgae can be used as a source of bioavtur feedstock. The suitability of location for cultivation will influence the success of microalgae cultivation that will be used as a source of bioavtur feedstock. The purpose of this research is to choose the best location for microalgae cultivation in NTT by AHP method. The criteria used in this research are nutrient, water and technology. Sub criteria of nutrient elements are coal power plant emission, cement industry emission and synthetic fertilizers, sub criteria from water that is sea water, brackish water and fresh water, while sub criteria of technology are Photobioreactor, Open Raceway Pond and membrane. The result of AHP analysis shows the selection of microalgae cultivation location in Kupang with the weight of 0.308, with the source of nutrient derived from coal power plant emission, the type of water used is sea water and the technology used is Photobioreactor. Microalgae species used were Nannochloropsis sp with a lipid content of 31-68%. Based on the author assumption, microalgae have the productivity for bioavtur manufacture which amount of 24.489kL/ha/ yr. That can be used to meet the needs of 2% avtur in NTT which amount of 1.052,22 kL/yr and the area requirement for microalgae cultivation is 2,14 hectare.
Optimization of Wastewater of Batik Buaran Pekalongan by Using Photocatalytic Membrane Bioreactor
Authors: Arifan Fahmi , Nugraheni FS , Elsa Lianandaya Niken
Published: February 2018

The purpose of this study is to determine the final COD concentration reduction by changing COD and MLSS concentration on the performance of submerged membrane bioreactor (MBRs) as a waste treatment of Batik in Buaran Pekalongan. The method is covers the process of seeding, the acclimatization process and the main process. Description of the process that we take an active mud from IPLT Buaran Pekalongan, then we analyze the sludge MLSS, MLVSS, COD, BOD, and TSS. After that we enter the active sludge in the bath nursery that has been given aerator (a tool for aeration) and made provision in the form of NPK nutrients and glucose at a ratio of 1:10. Activated sludge from the acclimatization process is inserted into the MBRs (membrane bioreactor submerged) that is equipped with an aerator. Then prepare influent(waste to be lowered concentration of COD). How, liquid waste of Batik Pekalongan Buaran COD diluted concentration of 10,000 mg / l and 15,000 mg / l, and then inserted in influent tub. After that liquid waste of Batik Buaran Pekalongan influent flowed into Photocatalytic Membrane Bioreactor, of MPB effluent flowed into the tub (result).
Modeling Nitrogen Decrease in Water Lettuce Ponds from Waste Stabilization Ponds
Authors: Agnes Putri Gitta , Sunarsih
Published: February 2018

This paper presents about the dynamic modeling of the Water Lettuce ponds as a form of improvement from the Water Hyacinth ponds. The purpose of this paper is to predict nitrogen decrease and nitrogen transformation in Water Lettuce ponds integrated with Waste Stabilization Ponds. The model consists of 4 mass balances, namely Dissolved Organic Nitrogen (DON), Particulate Organic Nitrogen (PON), ammonium (NH4+), Nitrate and Nitrite (NOx). The process of nitrogen transformation which considered in a Water Lettuce ponds, namely hydrolysis, mineralization, nitrification, denitrification, plant and bacterial uptake processes. Numerical simulations are performed by giving the values of parameters and the initial values of nitrogen compounds based on a review of previous studies. Numerical results show that the rate of change in the concentration of nitrogen compounds in the integration ponds of waste stabilization and water lettuce decreases and reaches stable at different times.
Sustainable Development Strategy Of Domestic Waste Infrastructure In The City Of Surakarta
Authors: Rezagama Arya , Purwono  , Damayanti Verika
Published: February 2018

Shifting from traditional system to large, centralised infrastructure domestic waste is widely complex challenge. Most of fhe sanitary system on household in Surakarta use on site septictank, 17% sewerage system reached and16,0% stll open defecations. Sanitation development sustained aims to develop policy and strategies waste management domestic Surakarta in the long term (20 years). The projection use quantitative method and institutional condition approach by SWOT analysis. Surakarta City get priority sanitation urban planning from Indonesian government in Presiden Joko Widodo era. The domestic waste management systems that is Surakarta divided into system on-site and system off site. Waste Water Treatment Plant (WWTP) mojosongo, WWTP pucangsawit and WWTP Semanggi will be developed to treat 30% domestic waste of Surakarta Residence. While on-site system will are served 70% residence by service programs Regular Cleaning Septictank. The toughest challenge is how to increase community participation in waste management and improve the company”s financial condition. Sanitation sustainable development is going to happen if supported by facility development also good, institutional development, the arrangement that oversees, and the public participation.
Waste Bank Revitalization in Palabuhanratu West Java
Authors: Prasetyo Samadikun Budi , Siwi Handayani Dwi , Permana Laksana Muhamad
Published: February 2018

Palabuhanratu Village has three waste banks, one of them was established since 2010, the others built in 2016. However, waste processing from the source is still not optimal, it’s only reduced waste about 5% of the total waste generated to the final waste disposal site. The performance of waste banks is still minimal, because one waste bank can not serve the entire area of the village. Furthermore, organic waste processed by some communities of Palabuhanratu Village to be compost can not be a mass movement, due to the lack of public knowledge. The purpose of this research is to know the existing condition of waste management in Palabuhanratu Village and to formulate the revitalization of existing waste bank. The research used survey research method by using questionnaire, in depth interview, and observation. Analytical technique using quantitative and qualitative analysis. The findings of the research indicate that the residents of Palabuhanratu Village who often do waste sorting from the source only from the residents of RT 01 / RW 33. The number of existing temporary waste disposal site in Palabuhanratu Village is still lacking, so it requires addition up to 5 units that integrated with waste bank in this village.
Effectiveness of Reducing P Fertilizer and Adding Fish Pond Mud Waste on Growth and Yield of Soybean in Peatland
Authors: Riak Asie Erina , Rumbang Nyahu , Winarti Sih , Sinaga Soaloon
Published: February 2018

The objective of the study was to assess the effectiveness of P fertilizer reduction and the addition of fish pond sludge waste on the growth and yield of soybean crop in peatland. Research used Complete Randomized Design factorial with two factors. The first factor was the reduction of P fertilizer from the dose of 150 kg.ha-1 consisting of 4 levels, namely P0: 100% (2.944 g/polybag), P1: 75% (2.208 g/polybag), P2: 50% (1.472 g/polybag), and P3: 25% (0.736 g/polybag). The second factor was the addition of fish pond mud waste (L) from the dose of 15 ton.ha-1 consisting of 4 levels, namely L0: 25% (73.595 g/polybag), L1: 50% (147.19 g/polybag), L2: 75% (220.78 g/polybag), and L3: 100% (294.38 g/polybag). Each treatment combination was replicated 3 times to obtain 48 experimental units. The results showed that (1) fish pond mud waste was effective to reduce the use of P fertilizer, (2) the reduction of P fertilizer up to 50% from recommendation dosage by addition of fish pond sludge waste at 75% dose of 15 ton/ha was the best combination due to providing the best plant growth and the highest P concentration of plant tissue. The highest number of pods and weight of seed obtained in the combination were 60.33 pods/plant and 7.30 g/plant, respectively.
Facultative Stabilization Pond: Measuring Biological Oxygen Demand using Mathematical Approaches
Authors: Wira S Ihsan , Sunarsih Sunarsih
Published: February 2018

Pollution is a man-made phenomenon. Some pollutants which discharged directly to the environment could create serious pollution problems. Untreated wastewater will cause contamination and even pollution on the water body. Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD) is the amount of oxygen required for the oxidation by bacteria. The higher the BOD concentration, the greater the organic matter would be. The purpose of this study was to predict the value of BOD contained in wastewater. Mathematical modeling methods were chosen in this study to depict and predict the BOD values contained in facultative wastewater stabilization ponds. Measurements of sampling data were carried out to validate the model. The results of this study indicated that a mathematical approach can be applied to predict the BOD contained in the facultative wastewater stabilization ponds. The model was validated using Absolute Means Error with 10% tolerance limit, and AME for model was 7.38% (< 10%), so the model is valid. Furthermore, a mathematical approach can also be applied to illustrate and predict the contents of wastewater.
Prevalence of Hookworm infection and Strongyloidiasis in Cats and Potential Risk Factor of Human Diseases
Authors: Sedionoto Blego , Anamnart Witthaya
Published: February 2018

Hookworm infection and Stronyloidiasis are public health problem in the worldwide which both of them could infective in human by penetrated on skin and they have potential risk from Gastrointestinal zoonotic helminths of pets, including cats. We investigated the prevalence soil transmitted helminths infection in human and cats used modified Formal-Ether Concentration and agar plate culture. Fecal samples of 23 cats and human from Naitung and Subua Villages (area study 1), and fecal samples of 15 cats and 17 humans from Thasala Beach villages (area study 2) were collected. Result of study in area study 1 showed prevalence of infection in human was not hookworm and strongyloidiasis but 10% humans have infected Ascaris and Tricuris, and in cats have infected by hookworm 75.2% and S. strercoralis 8.5%, toxocara 13%, spirometra 13% and overall prevalence 82.5%. In area study 2 showed in human has infected by Trichuris 100% and S. stercoralis 29.4% and in cats have infected by hookworm 100% and S. strercoralis 40%, toxocora 20%, and spirometra 20%. Helminth infection found in both humans in two areas study are S. strercoralis. Hookworms were the most common helminth in cats but did not connection with infection in human, while S. strercoralis was helminth infection in cats which has potential zoonotic disease to human.
Fish Marketing of Ribbon Fish (Trichiurus sp.) in Nusantara Fishing Port (NFP)at Palabuhanratu, West Java
Authors: Nur Bambang Azis
Published: February 2018

The objective of this research is to study the marketing process of ribbon fish (Trichiurus sp.), including the marketing margin, marketing agencies, traders and marketing channels The research was carried out for 3 mo in Nusantara Fishing Port (NFP), Palabuhanratu, Sukabumi, West Java. A case study was used in this research. A purposive sampling method was used to collect data from 55 respondents of fish marketing, consisting of fishermen, agents, traders, and retailers, who were involved in the marketing of ribbon fish in NFP Palabuhanratu. The result of the research showed that ribbon fish production in Palabuhanratu fluctuated from year to year. There are two types of ribbon fish marketing, i.e. type one is from fishermen to retailers, and type two is indirect marketing from fisherman to consumers through intermediate traders (exporters). The greatest marketing margin was obtained from the first type, while the smallest marketing margin was obtained from type two. The form of the market was considered to be oligopsony market. Fisherman’s share is greatest in the collectors and the smallest share is on retailers. Marketing process in traders is efficient due to its lowest margin and highest fisherman’s share.