bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Planning of the Main Distribution Network of the Prambon Subdistrict Region in 2032
Authors: Nugroho G N F , Purnomo A , Firdaus S , Marsono B D , Sumarsono R
Published: June 2020

PDAM Sidoarjo targets to serve the western part of Sidoarjo Regency, which includes the Prambon Subdistrict, Tarik Subdistrict, Krembung Subdistrict, Tulangan Subdistrict and Balongbendo Subdistrict. The water requirements of 5 Subdistricts in 2023 were calculated, and the average water requirement would be 771 L/s, while at peak hour the water requirement would be 1,157 L / sec. The distribution system in the Prambon subdistrict is planned to use a loop system, having 3 large loops following the condition of the population distribution, also looping system because Prambon subdistrict is the initial area to drain water to other Subdistricts. The distribution system in Prambon Subdistrict is divided into 25 Blocks, so there are 25 primary to secondary tapping pipes. From the results of analysis, the main distribution network pipe diameter is 300 mm to 850 mm. The pressure reaches a peak of 41 m to 81 m and the velocity is 0.33 m/s to 2.04 m/s.
Impact of Additional Water Capacity from Umbulan Spring to Water Distribution System of Central Gresik and South Gresik
Authors: Tarigan R F A , Purnomo A
Published: June 2020

The service area of drinking water in Gresik is divided into three zones: Central Gresik Zone, Central Gresik Zone, and South Gresik Zone. Gresik would receive an additional flow of 1,000 l/s from Umbulan Spring in 2021 to supply the demand of Central Gresik Zone. Legundi Water Treatment Plant (WTP) and Dewata WTP are two of several WTPs that supply Central Gresik Zone’s demand. Moreover, those two aforementioned WTPs also supply Central Gresik Zone’s demand. Once there is additional water capacity from Umbulan Spring, the water capacity of those two WTPs will be allocated to supply Central Gresik Zone’s demand. Central Gresik Zone is also supplied by Drupadi WTP which supplies South Gresik Zone’s demand. The rate of drinking water service in Central Gresik Zone and South Gresik Zone has not reached 100% especially in Benjeng sub-district and Balongpanggang sub-district. Therefore, the distribution pipeline network was planned to be developed in stages starting from 2015 until 2030. Analysis result of additional capacity to existing distribution pipeline network in 2021 showed incompatibility to design criteria.
Design of Sewerage System and Wastewater Treatment Plant in Asemrowo, Surabaya, Indonesia
Authors: Rosari N L , Purwanti I F
Published: June 2020

Asemrowo sub-district is a high-risk area in terms of environmental health. 1113 households in Asemrowo Subdistrict still defecate (BAB) openly. In Asemrowo sub-district 89.6% of the community has a private latrine. This article attempts to design a domestic sewage and wastewater treatment plant in Asemrowo District based on Surabaya City Regulation Number 12 of 2016 concerning Water Quality Management and Wastewater Control. Meanwhile, the effluent quality refers to the Regulation of the Minister of Environment and Forestry of the Republic of Indonesia number 68 of 2016 concerning domestic wastewater quality standards. The processes of the design includes acquiring primary data from field observations, distributing community questionnaires with random sampling of 105 respondents and analyzing the quality of wastewater for references in the wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) design. The domestic wastewater distribution system uses Shallow Sewerage which is divided into 4 blocks. The diameter of the wastewater pipe used in this plan is 114 mm, 140 mm, 216 mm and 267 mm. WWTP used in blocks A, B and C use Aerobic Biofilter and Clarifier. As for WWTP block D, it uses Aerobic Biofilter.
Environmental Impact Studied using Life Cycle Assessment on Cement Industry
Authors: Rosyid A , Boedisantoso R , Iswara A P
Published: June 2020

The rapid development in Indonesia has caused cement production to be directly proportional to its needs. The cement industry produces commercial cement for domestic development needs. Cement is made by means of a series of exploitation and production processes that involve the main process and supporting processes in its activities. To be able to produce cement, it requires raw materials, fuel and chemical additives, and these activities produce emissions that have an impact of decreasing environmental quality. The gas emissions produced are CO2, CH4, NOx, SOx, N2O and particulate. These emissions have an impact of increasing global warming and decreasing ambient air quality which has an impact on human health and the environment. This study identifies the impact of the main process based on the cradle-to-gate approach, starting from the process of exploitation of raw materials to the production process that produces cement as the main product. Impact identification was done using the Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) method with the SimaPro 8.5.2 application. The Life Cycle Impact Assessment (LCIA) categories include global warming potential for 100 years, acidification, and carcinogens. The method used was TRACI, a midpoint approach. Results after normalization show that the highest impacts generated were global warming from kiln process (353,473); acidification from kiln process (95,273), and carcinogens from raw mill process (4,837,721).
The Effect of Idle Capacity on The Treatment Efficiency of IPAL PT. X
Authors: Karnaningroem N , Shinta F R
Published: June 2020

PT.X has a Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) with a capacity of 10000 m3/day, but the average daily discharge from 2018 until the beginning of 2019 was 4100 m3/day. Based on this, idle capacity occured at the WWTP of PT.X. This study aims to determine the effect of idle capacity on the quality of wastewater treatment at the WWTP of PT.X. Data collected included the discharge and waste water quality of each unit. Unit sampling was done at four points using the grab sampling method. Sample testing was carried out in a laboratory. The results of sample testing of PT.X WWTP effluent showed that the efficiency for each unit was very small, for the first settling tank unit the parameters of BOD and COD had efficiencies of - 123% and -139%, respectively. Based on that, it was concluded that idle capacity affected the removal efficiency for each unit so that processing was not optimal.
Study of Leachate Penetration in Shallow Groundwater Around Jabon Landfill Sidoarjo
Authors: Marendra S M P , Tangahu B V
Published: June 2020

This study was conducted at Jabon Landfill located in Jabon District, Sidoarjo. Jabon Landfill has been operating since 2003 with the Controlled Landfill system. Laboratory test results of samples taken at 18 sampling points in the east, south and west zones of the landfill for Total Dissolved Solid (TDS), Turbidity, Manganese (Mn) and Chloride (Cl−) parameters showed that they were higher than the quality standards except Iron (Fe). According to the groundwater elevation, contaminants were dispersed towards the east and south of the Landfill. Leachate pollutant index was 7.70 which means it was moderately polluted. A well was used as a source of clean water but the well water has a quality status of moderately polluted and lightly polluted. The distance and depth of initial groundwater have a significant effect on the status of water quality.
Reducing Suspended Organics in Surface Water by Hydraulic Coagulation Processes in Parshall Flume
Authors: Rosariawari F. , Farahdiba A.U , Soedjarwo P.
Published: June 2020

Parshall flume is an engineered flow rate system in open channel, in which water flow is forced to pass through narrow channels. Thus, turbulence flow would occur and it can be used for hydrolyzing mixing between coagulants and raw water. The aimed of this research is to treat surface water into clean water by eliminating suspended organic loads contained in surface water by hydraulic flow. The effectiveness of Parshall Flume was measured with variations of flowrate at 7, 9, and 11 L/minute, variations of PAC coagulant concentration at 25.75, 100, and 125 mg/L, and sedimentation times at 30, 60 and 90 minutes. The contaminant parameter evaluated was turbidity. The results of this research showed that the flowrate of 9 L/minute, the coagulant concentration of PAC was 75 mg/L and settling time of 90 minutes, resulted in the lowest turbidity at pH 6.5 – 8.
Analysis of The Increasing Need of Drinking Water as The Effect of High-rise Building Growth in Eastern Surabaya
Authors: Rihendyh A R , Yuniarto A , Wahyuningsih I
Published: June 2020

Surabaya City, the capital of East Java, is one of the centers for business, trade, industries, and education in Indonesia. Surabaya is also a very important hub for the eastern part of Indonesia, making it a strategic location for property investors. Nowadays, Surabaya’s economic is hugely affected by its significant growth in properties, where skyscrapers, malls, plazas, apartments, office buildings, and hotels will continue to be built in the coming years. The amount of the aforementioned commercial buildings creates concern on drinking water supply management. In this study, the projection of drinking water need was determined by projecting inhabitants or users of high-rise buildings based on existing project data as well as interviews and field survey to people in charge. The study was directed towards 9 high-rise buildings in the eastern part of Surabaya, in particular in the districts of Gubeng, Tenggilis Mejoyo, Rungkut, and Gunung Anyar. The projection data were then analyzed and modeled using WaterCAD. Technical aspects discussed in this study include the amount of water, the network of water distribution system, and supply management. This study found that the total water need would range between 3-20 L/s depending on the number of inhabitants or user. The modelling predicted year to year situation on flows and pressures until 2025. In the last year of the modelling, the pressure obtained on the distribution system were in the range of -4 to 18 mH2O, which is a critical range of pressure in those areas.
Effect of Chloride Ions on Concrete with Geopolymer Coatings in Coastal Area
Authors: Nastiti S F , Ekaputri J J
Published: June 2020

This paper presents the effects of chloride ions on OPC (Ordinary Portland Cement) concrete coated with fly ash-based geopolymer mortar. The coating was applied to protect concrete in coastal areas. The mortar was a mixture of fly ash and alkali activator with a mass ratio of 65:35. The alkali activator was a mixture of Na2SiO3 and NaOH 12M with a mass ratio of 2.5:1. The coating thickness varied at 2.5 cm, 4 cm, and 6 cm. All specimens were exposed to a marine area with seawater curing for 90 days. The mechanical properties of the specimen were determined by compressive strength. Chloride penetration was assessed for durability. A series of tests were carried out after 0, 30, 60, and 90 days of immersion. Compressive strength after a 90-day immersion increased by 34.16%, 39.81% and 31.38% for thickness 2.5 cm, 4 cm, and 6 cm respectively. Compressive strength with a thickness of 4 cm reached 52 MPa, which was the highest strength. The binding capacity of the chloride in geopolymer coatings was more than 80% and could reduce the free chloride content in concrete. Geopolymer mortar coating on OPC concrete showed good results in compressive strength and resistance to chloride attack from sea water. The recommended coating thickness for optimum results suitable for application is 4 cm.
Application of Metaheuristic Algorithms in Truss Structure Sizing Optimization
Authors: Prayogo D. , Harsono K. , Prasetyo K. E. , Wong F. T. , Tjandra D.
Published: June 2020

Field studies of structural optimization have gained increased attention due to the rapid development of metaheuristic algorithms. One widely known metaheuristic algorithm, Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO), has been extensively used to solve many problems and is reported to have fast convergence behavior and good accuracy. As many problems become more complex, studies have been focused on improving PSO searching capability. This study presents the application of PSO and its variants in optimizing truss structures. The performances of PSO and several PSO variants, namely, linearly decreasing inertia weight PSO (LDW-PSO) and bare bones PSO (BB-PSO), were compared and investigated. All optimization algorithms were tested in 72-bar and 25-bar spatial truss problems. The results indicate that BBPSO was the best algorithm in terms of optimum solution, consistency, and convergence behavior.
Reliability-based Design with Size and Shape Optimization of Truss Structure Using Symbiotic Organisms Search
Authors: Prayogo D. , Gaby G. , Wijaya B. H. , Wong F.T.
Published: June 2020

Studies on truss design optimization have been conducted extensively over the past decades. One of the significant current discussions is the reliability aspect of truss design in addition to optimal design. This problem has become more important, especially the sizing and shaping in the optimization of truss structures. Reliability-based design optimization is defined as finding the optimum structure while satisfying the given uncertainty and reliability criteria. This study aims to investigate the performance of metaheuristic algorithm in optimizing the truss structure design and satisfying the reliability constraints. Latin hypercube sampling method was used to model the presence of uncertainty. Symbiotic organisms search was also utilized as a metaheuristic algorithm to solve a modified 15-bar planar truss. The results indicated that reliability design gives a significant result in the shape and size of truss.
Structural Design Optimization Using Particle Swarm Optimization and Its Variants
Authors: Prayogo D. , Sebastian  , Hauwing W. , Wong F.T. , Tjandra D.
Published: June 2020

Structural design optimization has become an extremely challenging and more complex task for most real-world practical applications. A huge number of design variables and complex constraints have contributed to the complexity and nonlinearity of the problems. Mathematical programming and gradient-based search algorithms cannot be used to solve nonlinear problems. Thus, researchers have extensively conducted many experimental studies to address the growing complexity of these problems. Metaheuristic algorithms, which typically use nature as a source inspiration, have been developed over past decades. As one of the widely used algorithms, particle swarm optimization (PSO) has been studied and expanded to deal with many complex problems. Particle swarm optimization and its variants have great accuracy in finding the best solution while maintaining its fast convergence behavior. This study aims to investigate PSO and its variants to solve a set of complex structural optimization problems. Several complex benchmark studies of design problem were provided to study the performance of PSO, linearly decreasing inertia weight PSO and bare bones PSO. The results support the potential use of PSO and its variants as an alternative approach to solving structural design optimization problems.
Mapping of Sea Surface Temperature and its Correlation with Salinity Concentration in The Coastal Beach of Bangkalan Madura District
Authors: Zainab S , Handajani N , Wibisana H
Published: June 2020

Sea surface temperature is one of the parameters that plays a role in the quality of aquatic ecosystems in the sea, especially in shallow marine waters. Other parameters that play a role in determining the quality of the soil on the coast are salinity concentrations, which defines the mineral content of salts that are in the structure of soil widely used for farming or for ponds. This study aims to obtain a correlation of salinity to changes in temporal sea surface temperature for 2 consecutive years on the coastal areas of Bangkalan Madura district as a case study. The method used in this study was mapping with remote sensing using Terra Modis satellite imagery for 2018 and 2019. The acquisition of SST data used the ATBD algorithm and field data while for salinity field data were used. The study found that the magnitude of the SST values during the temporal analysis was not too much different in 2018 and 2019, only for correlations with salinity, the statistically calculated error rate of 5% showed that there were sufficient differences with the SST changes that occured during a year. The conclusion is that there was a significant correlation of the amount of salinity concentration with changes in sea surface temperature that occurred during the year of observation and this requires serious handling so that high salinity in coastal areas do not seep into the land which would have a negative impact on coastal communities.
Groundwater Hydrogeochemistry in Bukit Raya and Tenayan Raya, Pekanbaru, Indonesia
Authors: Rafi F , Karuniasa M , Asseggaf A
Published: June 2020

Pekanbaru is growing rapidly and one of the largest in industry and commercial sector on Sumatera Island. Hydrogeological mapping and major elements in groundwater samples from protected wells were used to determine hydrochemical facies in Bukit Raya and Tenayan Raya sub-districts in Pekanbaru. A total of 14 groundwater samples were collected in May 2017. A Piper Trilinear diagram was employed to evaluate the hydrogeochemical evolution of groundwater. Results show that water table varies from 7.02 to 46.67 m in depth and flow toward the middle of research area which is Sail River. Based on groundwater table, the relationship between groundwater and river water was effluent. Hydrochemical facies of groundwater in the study area are dominated by sodium chloride, calcium chloride, and calcium bicarbonate water type. Dominance of Na+ elements in facies is from the dissolution of Feldspar or Pyroxene in sand, and the Ca2+ element in facies is from the dissolution of Feldspar and Plagioclase in sand. The presence of Cl− element in facies is from salt crystals in rainwater, and the HCO3
− element in facies has contact with air and is dominated by rainwater. Lithology conditions in the study area are generally weathered so that the influence of rocks on rainwater is quite high.
Seismic Site Effect Mapping Based on Natural Frequency Using Microtremor Method in Sidoarjo District
Authors: Widodo A , Rochman J P G N , Perdana A , Syaifuddin F
Published: June 2020

Sidoarjo is one of the satellite districts of Surabaya. The regency has important infrastructures that support Surabaya as a big city, such as the airport, bus terminal, industrial estate and warehouses which are important to support the sustainability of the industries in Surabaya City and East Java Province. With its important role, Sidoarjo Regency faces the risk of disasters in the form of earthquakes caused by earthquake sources in the form of land faults. Faults located closest to the district of Sidoarjo are Blumbang Fault, Pasuruan Fault, Surabaya Fault, and Waru Fault. With this risk, a research is needed to determine the local site effects of land related to seismicity. Therefore, microtremor research was held in Sidoarjo Regency to determine the local site effect in the form of dominant frequency of the soil. Measurements were done in 37 points spread throughout the Sidoarjo Regency. With dominant frequencies mapping, an analysis of earthquake hazard levels were carried out due to geological factors around the Sidoarjo Regency. After measuring natural frequencies, the range of natural frequencies were found to be between 0.8 - 3.65 Hz. Low natural frequency values were found in Waru District and high frequencies were found in Sedati District.
Active Fault Delineation Using Magnetotelluric Data in The Western Region of East Java
Authors: Lestari W , Widodo A , Warnana D D , Syaifuddin F , Rochman J P G N , Zarkasyi A , Setiawan N S
Published: June 2020

The subsurface geological condition of East Java is an area that is crossed by an active fault geological structure. The National Earthquake Center revised the Indonesian Earthquake Hazard and Source Map of 2017 with the discovery of new active faults surrounding the Kendeng Zone, East Java. This research was conducted using Magnetoteluric (MT) method which has high penetration therefore it was able to map the geometry of active deep fault structures beneath the surface. Measurements were made at 11 measuring points focusing on the Blumbang Fault (M6.6) in Lamongan District. 4 (four) lines were made from 11 existing measuring points. The lines were then modelled in 2D to describe the distribution of subsurface resistivity. The results showed an anomaly with low resistivity value which was indicated as Blumbang Fault in 4 section models. Section of line 1 and 2 indicated a fault in the NS-SE direction continuity to the northwest which became deeper to the south from 6 km to 9 km. Lines 3 predicted the fault with low resistivity value (<30 ωm) close to M07 point with a depth of 8 km. However, it did not clearly show its continuity. Line 4 assumed the suspected structure as Blumbang Fault with a resistivity value below 30 ωm that is shallower to the west with 6 km of depth.
Valorisation of waste feathers: treatments and characterization
Authors: Mrajji Ouahiba , El Wazna Mohamed , El Bouari Abdeslam , Cherkaoui Omar
Published: June 2020

Environmental concerns are focused on the search for environmentally friendly, biodegradable, sustainable, renewable and widely available materials. Feather wastes have very special structures and important physiological functions, their valorization offers solutions to these problems. More than 30 million tons of chicken feathers are generated each year by the Moroccan poultry industry. This waste is unfit for valorisation due to the contaminant; debris, skin and blood from the poultry industry. These contaminants should be removed before their valorisation. The aim of this research is to study different treatments (sodium dodecyl sulfate, ethanol, Hydrogen peroxide and Acetone) in order to evaluate their effectiveness in removing the contaminants from the feather’s surface obtained from the slaughter, storage or transport of these poultry wastes. Furthermore, the effects of treatments on the physicochemical and mechanical properties are studied. The results of the treatments showed efficiency at higher concentrations and the best results were attributed to treatment with the sodium dodecyl sulfate with no significant differences in structure and the chemical composition. These results were confirmed with Scanning electron microscopy, infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and EDX analysis.
Theoretical model of green supply chain management: Support elements
Authors: Elhidaoui Sana , Benhida Khalid
Published: June 2020

Nowadays, works on supply chain management continue to expand, which is associated with the speedy growth of technology on one hand, and the global issue of climate change on the other hand. All these factors have contributed to the emergence of a new field of research, namely the green supply chain management especially in the early 2000s. Through this paper, a brief literature review was conducted in order to summarize the published research work on green supply chain management, followed by a theoretical model that combines a set of tools and practices as support elements for the green supply chain management.
The investigation of crimp and spin-finish effects on the processing behavior of polyaramide fibers during the spinning process
Authors: Boughamoura I , Sinoimeri A
Published: June 2020

The spinning process optimization has been the subject of many articles and publications. They mainly study cohesion and friction forces presented as the most influent mechanical phenomena on fiber workability. However, they were limited to natural fibers studies and more specifically cotton. Therefore, and to enlarge these studies, this article focuses on the processing behavior of fire-resistant fibers of polyaramide type. Besides, inner fiber characteristics have a significant effect on their mechanical behavior. Consequently, the object of this article is to investigate the effect of fiber material and its characteristics, mainly spin-finish and crimp, on mechanical processing behavior, which includes fiber cohesion, and frictional resistance.
New textile-based hybrid photovoltaic/thermal (PV/T) system
Authors: Pause B
Published: June 2020

This paper introduces a new textile-based hybrid PV/T system utilizing a spacer fabric treated with phase change material (PCM). The PCM absorbs excess heat from the PV modules, which keeps the modules in their optimal temperature range so that their power output is enhanced. The thermal energy stored in the PCM is then used for hot water generation. Cold water, which is pumped through thin capillaries integrated into the spacer fabric, absorbs the heat stored in the PCM and is heated up. The warm water can be used immediately or stored in an intermediate storage tank. Comparing the proposed textile-based hybrid PV/T system to conventional hybrid PV/T systems, the proposed system is less expensive and provides a higher overall efficiency. The textile-based collector is lightweight, thin and flexible.
Development of 3D warp interlock fabrics based on moroccan natural fibers
Authors: Samouh Z , Cherkaoui O , Soulat D , Labanieh A R , Boussu F , El moznine R
Published: June 2020

The aim of this research is the valorization of Moroccan natural resources through the manufacturing of innovative 3D interlocks textiles. In order to investigate the potential of the sisal yarns used into 3D warp interlock fabrics, the 3D fabrics were studied at multi-scales (micro-scale, meso-scale and macro-scale). Before starting the manufacture of the 3D fabrics, different physical properties of the sisal fibers were analyzed according to standards. At the meso-scale, the mechanical and thermal properties of the sisal yarns constituting the 3D warp interlock fabric were studied according to standards. After these yarns and fibers characterizations, different types of architecture of the 3D warp interlock fabric have been designed and produced. Some difficulties have been revealed during the weaving process, which highlights the difficulty to handle the sisal yarns in order to obtain 3D fabrics to be used as a future fibrous reinforcement for composite material.
Wastewater treatment using flocculation method and water reuse for dyeing of polyester fibers
Authors: Forte Tavčer P , Prelog K
Published: June 2020

Textile industry uses and pollutes large quantities of water, especially for chemical treatments of textile materials, like bleaching, desizing, dyeing, printing and finishing. After each process, the water is usually drained into the sewage system and fresh water is used for new process of textile treatment. Re-using of wastewater for further processing would be of great importance in term of saving fresh water and diminishing the environmental burden. The goal of our research was to find out whether treatment of dye-house wastewater with flocculation could be efficient enough for water re-use in further dyeing of polyester fabric.

Wastewater collected in Slovenian dye-house was treated with a cationic flocculant. Treated water was analysed for chemical oxygen demand (COD), total organic carbon (TOC), spectral absorption coefficient (SAC) and dry matter and further used for laboratory dyeing of polyester fabric. The fabric was dyed comparatively using technological and treated water under the same conditions in light, medium and dark shade. The colour of dyed samples was evaluated on spectrophotometrically. Wet fastness and colour fastness to perspiration (acid and alkaline) of differently dyed samples were investigated. Change of colour was acceptable for all dyed samples. Fastness to washing and perspiration were good, very similar when comparing samples dyed in technological and those dyed in cleaned water. The colorimetric and fastness results showed a high efficiency of flocculation for dye-house wastewater treatment and reuse of treated water in production.
Mathematical and numerical modelling of soiling effects of photovoltaic solar panels on their electrical performance
Authors: Rouway Marwane , Boulahia Zoubair , Chakhchaoui Nabil , Fouzia Fraija , El Hachemi Omari Lhaj , Cherkaoui Omar , Van Langenhove Lieva
Published: June 2020

With time, the photovoltaic solar panels naturally soiled from dust and other elements. These soils prevent light to reach solar cell and can reduce the long-term profitability. The study demonstrates the soiling effect on the electrical characteristics of panels, productivity and performance. A model simulation was developed in this direction in order to quantify and compare the performance of clean and dirty panels, the dust particles have been considered as spheres with an elliptical shadow on the panel. The results prove a power loss of 40% of a 0,224 mg/cm2 dust deposition in comparison with a clean panel at the maximum operating point MPP. This study describes the identified critical parameters governing the fouling of the PV panels.
Low-pressure gas nitriding of AISI 304 austenitic stainless steel: reducing the precipitation of chromium nitrides
Authors: Xie Wenzhi , Chen Yunxia , Chen Dazhi , Yang Yang , Zhang Chengsong , Cui Guodong , Wang Yixue
Published: June 2020

In this study, low-pressure gas nitriding (gas pressure of 0.01 MPa) was conducted to produce a thicker nitrided layer with high hardness and anti-corrosive properties on AISI 304 austenitic stainless steel. The effects of nitriding temperature and duration on the microstructure and surface property of nitrided layers were systematically evaluated by using optical microscope, X-ray diffraction, elemental analysis, microhardness test and potentiodynamic polarization tests. The samples were also treated under conventional gas pressure of 0.1 MPa for comparison. The results show that the low-pressure gas nitriding could restrain the precipitation of chromium nitrides effectively, which is beneficial for obtaining a thicker nitrided layer. Although the activation energy of nitrogen diffusion for low-pressure nitriding (220 kJ mol−1) is higher than that for the atmospheric pressure nitriding (196 kJ mol−1), the thickness of nitrided layers for low pressure nitriding could reach to a comparable value as that for the conventional atmospheric pressure nitriding. More importantly, the surface toughness and corrosion resistance of nitrided layers could be improved by low-pressure nitriding, which is mainly attributed to the optimized nitrogen content in nitrided layers and the reduced precipitation of chromium nitrides under low-pressure.
Phase-tunable quantum router
Authors: Yan Guo-An , Cheng Wen-Qing , Lu Hua
Published: June 2020

We propose and analyze an efficient scheme for realizing the high transfer rate for quantum router composed of two coupled-resonator waveguides (CRWs) channels coupled with N sequential cavities with embedded N four-level atoms. In this paper, we focus on the effect of the phase difference between different coupling constants which has been ignored in the previous works. In this scheme, we demonstrate that the phase difference between the coupling constants has a very large impact on the band spectra of single-photon propagating from one of the CRW into the other. Besides, as the number of atoms embedded in the two CRWs increases, the efficiency of a single photon being routed into other CRW can reach 100%. More importantly, we also find that if the phase difference of the coupling strength exists, even if there is atomic dissipation in the system, the transfer rate of a single photon not only it not decrease but it increases.
Heart Rate Variability, Sleep Quality, and Depression in the Context of Chronic Stress
Authors: da Estrela Chelsea , McGrath Jennifer , Booij Linda , Gouin Jean-Philippe
Published: June 2020

Background

Disrupted sleep quality is one of the proposed mechanisms through which chronic stress may lead to depression. However, there exist significant individual differences in sleep reactivity, which is the extent to which one experiences sleep disturbances in response to stress.

Purpose

The aim of the current study was to investigate whether low high-frequency heart rate variability (HRV), as a psychophysiological marker of poor emotional and physiological arousal regulation, predicts stress-related sleep disturbances associated with greater risk of depression symptoms.

Methods

Using a chronic caregiving stress model, 125 mothers of adolescents with developmental disorders and 97 mothers of typically developing adolescents had their resting HRV and HRV reactivity recorded and completed a measure of depressive symptoms, as well as a 7 day sleep diary to assess their sleep quality. A moderated mediation model tested whether sleep quality mediated the association between chronic stress exposure and depressive symptoms and whether HRV moderated this mediation.

Results

After controlling for participant age, body mass index, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, and employment status, poor sleep quality mediated the association between chronic stress and depressive symptoms. Resting HRV moderated this indirect effect such that individuals with lower HRV were more likely to report poorer sleep quality in the context of chronic stressor exposure, which, in turn, was related to greater depressive symptoms.

Conclusions

Lower HRV, a potential biomarker of increased sleep reactivity to stress, is associated with greater vulnerability to stress-related sleep disturbances, which, in turn, increases the risk for elevated depressive symptoms in response to chronic stress.
An argument against causal decision theory
Authors: Spencer Jack
Published: June 2020

This paper develops an argument against causal decision theory. I formulate a principle of preference, which I call the Guaranteed Principle. I argue that the preferences of rational agents satisfy the Guaranteed Principle, that the preferences of agents who embody causal decision theory do not, and hence that causal decision theory is false.
Osmotic adjustment and hormonal regulation of stomatal responses to vapour pressure deficit in sunflower
Authors: Cardoso Amanda A , Brodribb Timothy J , Kane Cade N , DaMatta Fábio M , McAdam Scott A M
Published: June 2020

Dynamic variation of the stomatal pore in response to changes in leaf–air vapour pressure difference (VPD) constitutes a critical regulation of daytime gas exchange. The stomatal response to VPD has been associated with both foliage abscisic acid (ABA) and leaf water potential (Ψ l); however, causation remains a matter of debate. Here, we seek to separate hydraulic and hormonal control of stomatal aperture by manipulating the osmotic potential of sunflower leaves. In addition, we test whether stomatal responses to VPD in an ABA-deficient mutant (w-1) of sunflower are similar to the wild type. Stomatal apertures during VPD transitions were closely linked with foliage ABA levels in sunflower plants with contrasting osmotic potentials. In addition, we observed that the inability to synthesize ABA at high VPD in w-1 plants was associated with no dynamic or steady-state stomatal response to VPD. These results for sunflower are consistent with a hormonal, ABA-mediated stomatal responses to VPD rather than a hydraulic-driven stomatal response to VPD.
Towards a roadmap to advance non-hormonal contraceptive multipurpose prevention technologies: strategic insights from key stakeholders†
Authors: Hemmerling Anke , Christopher Emily , Young Holt Bethany
Published: June 2020

The development of non-hormonal contraceptives is critical to increase options for women. In combination with prevention against sexually transmitted infections, they can become an important component of multipurpose prevention technologies (MPTs) which address multiple reproductive health needs with a single product. Resulting from multiple rounds of expert consultations, this framework aims to guide the development of non-hormonal contraceptive MPTs. Key informant interviews with experts in family planning and HIV and STI prevention and MPT product developers and funders from around the globe were conducted, reviewed, and coded. Identified key themes were discussed by experts at the November 2019 Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development Contraceptive Development Meeting in Houston, Texas. Seven action strategies were identified to address key research gaps and priorities for advancing the field. They highlight the importance of identifying target populations, a systematic approach to collaborative research, and leveraging knowledge from other fields, including regulatory and patenting, manufacturing, and commercialization expertise. Employing expanded target product profiles and setting go/no-go decisions for non-hormonal MPTs will help to prioritize the most promising candidates in the drug development pipeline. Further, they call for optimizing investments and engagement of stakeholders from public and private sectors. These action strategies aim to facilitate collaboration and innovation amongst multidisciplinary MPT stakeholders. Paramount to success will be enhancing strategic alliances and reconciling the essential social–behavioral context and market forces that drive product use with the complexities of research and development, regulatory approval, and commercialization.
Classification using fractional anisotropy predicts conversion in genetic frontotemporal dementia, a proof of concept
Authors: Feis Rogier A , van der Grond Jeroen , Bouts Mark J R J , Panman Jessica L , Poos Jackie M , Schouten Tijn M , de Vos Frank , Jiskoot Lize C , Dopper Elise G P , van Buchem Mark A , van Swieten John C , Rombouts Serge A R B
Published: June 2020

Frontotemporal dementia is a highly heritable and devastating neurodegenerative disease. About 10–20% of all frontotemporal dementia is caused by known pathogenic mutations, but a reliable tool to predict clinical conversion in mutation carriers is lacking. In this retrospective proof-of-concept case-control study, we investigate whether MRI-based and cognition-based classifiers can predict which mutation carriers from genetic frontotemporal dementia families will develop symptoms (‘convert’) within 4 years. From genetic frontotemporal dementia families, we included 42 presymptomatic frontotemporal dementia mutation carriers. We acquired anatomical, diffusion-weighted imaging, and resting-state functional MRI, as well as neuropsychological data. After 4 years, seven mutation carriers had converted to frontotemporal dementia (‘converters’), while 35 had not (‘non-converters’). We trained regularized logistic regression models on baseline MRI and cognitive data to predict conversion to frontotemporal dementia within 4 years, and quantified prediction performance using area under the receiver operating characteristic curves. The prediction model based on fractional anisotropy, with highest contribution of the forceps minor, predicted conversion to frontotemporal dementia beyond chance level (0.81 area under the curve, family-wise error corrected P = 0.025 versus chance level). Other MRI-based and cognitive features did not outperform chance level. Even in a small sample, fractional anisotropy predicted conversion in presymptomatic frontotemporal dementia mutation carriers beyond chance level. After validation in larger data sets, conversion prediction in genetic frontotemporal dementia may facilitate early recruitment into clinical trials.
A Phase 3, Randomized, Open-label, Noninferiority Trial Evaluating Anti-Rabies Monoclonal Antibody Cocktail (TwinrabTM) Against Human Rabies Immunoglobulin (HRIG)
Authors: Kansagra Kevinkumar , Parmar Deven , Mendiratta Sanjeev Kumar , Patel Jatin , Joshi Shuchi , Sharma Nitin , Parihar Anurag , Bhoge Swapnil , Patel Harilal , Kalita Pankaj , Munshi Renuka , Kurmi Prakash , Shah Ruchir , Gupta Abhishek , Bhalla HiraLal , Bekkalele Harish , Verma RajendraKumar , Agarwal Dinesh , Sharma Shrikant , Gawande Avinash , Chhaya Gaurav
Published: June 2020

Background

Limited supply, cost and potential for severe adverse effects observed with the blood derived rabies immunoglobulin products has led to search for alternative therapies. This issue has been addressed by developing an anti-rabies monoclonal antibody cocktail.

Methods

This is a phase 3, randomized, open-label, noninferiority trial conducted in patients with World Health Organization (WHO) category III exposure with suspected rabid animal. Eligible patients were assigned to either the test arm, TwinrabTM (docaravimab and miromavimab) or the reference arm, human rabies immunoglobulin (HRIG; Imogam® Rabies-HT), in a ratio of 1:1. The primary endpoint was the comparison of responder rates between the 2 arms assessed as percentage of those with rabies virus neutralizing antibodies titers ≥0.5 IU/mL on day 14.

Results

A total of 308 patients were equally randomized into the 2 arms. In the per-protocol (PP) population, there were 90.21% responders in the TwinrabTM arm and 94.37% in the HRIG arm. The geometric mean of rapid fluorescent foci inhibition test titers in the PP on day 14 were 4.38 and 4.85 IU/mL, for the TwinrabTM and HRIG arms, respectively. There were no deaths or serious adverse events reported.

Conclusions

This study confirmed that TwinrabTM is noninferior to HRIG in terms of providing an unbroken window of protection up to day 84. This trial in healthy adults with WHO category III exposure from suspected rabid animal also establishes the safety of TwinrabTM in patients with 1 WHO approved vaccine regimen (Essen).

Clinical Trials Registration

CTRI/2017/07/009038.
Frequency and Determinant Factors for Calcification in Neurocysticercosis
Authors: Bustos Javier A , Arroyo Gianfranco , Gilman Robert H , Soto-Becerra Percy , Gonzales Isidro , Saavedra Herbert , Pretell E Javier , Nash Theodore E , O’Neal Seth E , Del Brutto Oscar H , Gonzalez Armando E , Garcia Hector H ,   The Cysticercosis Working Group in Peru
Published: June 2020

Background

Neurocysticercosis is a major cause of acquired epilepsy. Larval cysts in the human brain eventually resolve and either disappear or leave a calcification that is associated with seizures. In this study, we assessed the proportion of calcification in parenchymal neurocysticercosis and risk factors associated with calcification.

Methods

Data for 220 patients with parenchymal NCC from 3 trials of antiparasitic treatment were assessed to determine what proportion of the cysts that resolved 6 months after treatment ended up in a residual calcification at 1 year. Also, we evaluated the risk factors associated with calcification.

Results

The overall proportion of calcification was 38% (188/497 cysts, from 147 patients). Predictors for calcification at the cyst level were cysts larger than 14 mm (risk ratio [RR], 1.34; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.02–1.75) and cysts with edema at baseline (RR, 1.39; 95% CI, 1.05–1.85). At the patient level, having had more than 24 months with seizures (RR, 1.25; 95% CI, 1.08–1.46), mild antibody response (RR, 1.14; 95% CI, 1.002–1.27), increased dose albendazole regime (RR, 1.26; 95% CI, 1.14–1.39), lower doses of dexamethasone (RR, 1.36; 95% CI, 1.02–1.81), not receiving early antiparasitic retreatment (RR, 1.45; 95% CI, 1.08–1.93), or complete cure (RR, 1.48; 95% CI, 1.29–1.71) were associated with a increased risk of calcification.

Conclusions

Approximately 38% of parenchymal cysts calcify after antiparasitic treatment. Some factors associated with calcification are modifiable and may be considered to decrease or avoid calcification, potentially decreasing the risk for seizure relapses.
Algorithms Based on Path Contraction Carrying Weights for Enumerating Subtrees of Tricyclic Graphs
Authors: Yang Yu , Chen Beifang , Zhang Guoping , Li Yongming , Sun Daoqiang , Liu Hongbo
Published: June 2020

The subtree number index of a graph, defined as the number of subtrees, attracts much attention recently. Finding a proper algorithm to compute this index is an important but difficult problem for a general graph. Even for unicyclic and bicyclic graphs, it is not completely trivial, though it can be figured out by try and error. However, it is complicated for tricyclic graphs. This paper proposes path contraction carrying weights (PCCWs) algorithms to compute the subtree number index for the nontrivial case of bicyclic graphs and all 15 cases of tricyclic graphs, based on three techniques: PCCWs, generating function and structural decomposition. Our approach provides a foundation and useful methods to compute subtree number index for graphs with more complicated cycle structures and can be applied to investigate the novel structural property of some important nanomaterials such as the pentagonal carbon nanocone.
Effective Link Prediction with Topological and Temporal Information using Wavelet Neural Network Embedding
Authors: Mo Xian , Pang Jun , Liu Zhiming
Published: June 2020

Temporal networks are networks that edges evolve over time, hence link prediction in temporal networks aims at inferring new edges based on a sequence of network snapshots. In this paper, we propose a graph wavelet neural network (TT-GWNN) framework using topological and temporal features for link prediction in temporal networks. To capture topological and temporal features, we develope a second-order weighted random walk sampling algorithm. It combines network snapshots with both first-order and second-order weights into one weighted graph. Moreover, it incorporates a damping factor to assign greater weights to more recent snapshots. Next, we adopt graph wavelet neural networks to embed the vertices and use gated recurrent units for predicting new links. Extensive experiments demonstrate that TT-GWNN can effectively predict links on temporal networks.
Biventricular implantable cardioverter-defibrillator device placement in patients with hostile tricuspid valve anatomy: two case reports and review of the literature
Authors: Maskoun Waddah , Raad Mohamad , Khan Arfaat , Mando Ramy , Homsi Mohamed
Published: June 2020

Aims

Right ventricular (RV) lead placement can be contraindicated in patients after tricuspid valve (TV) surgery. Placement of the implantable cardiac-defibrillator (ICD) lead in the middle cardiac vein (MCV) can be a viable option in these patients who have an indication for biventricular (BiV) ICD. We aim to describe the case of two patients with MCV lead placement and provide a comprehensive review of patients with complex TV pathology and indications for RV lead placement.

Methods and results

We describe the cases of two patients with TV pathology unsuitable for the standard transvenous or surgical RV lead placement and undergoing BiV ICD implantation. Their characteristics, procedure, and outcomes are summarized. The BiV ICD was successfully placed with the RV lead positioned in the MCV in both patients. The procedures had no complications and were well-tolerated. On follow-up, both patients had appropriate tachytherapy with no readmissions for heart failure or worsening of cardiac function.

Conclusion

Right ventricular lead placement of BiV ICD in the MCV can be an excellent alternative in patients with significant TV pathology and poor surgical candidacy.