bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
INOVASI RANCANGAN MOBILE PIG RECEIVER UNTUK DIAMETER PIPELINE 10” SAMPAI 16”
Authors: Pramono Agus Edy , Wibowo Eric Guntur
Published: August 2019

ABSTRACTPigging process done to clean pipeline from water, waste, or residue from the result of welding on pipeline. The quality of gas distributed it would affect if there are remaining residue in the pipeline. The pipeline will also faster rusty if there water left in the pipeline , the corrosion on the pipe can be determined according to the corrosion coupon attached to the pipeline. After pigging process or cleaning done, pig receiver would not be used until the next process pigging or cleaning. Because this arise the idea of design pig receiver with eccentric reducer which can be replaced so pig receiver can be used on another size pipeline at a same plant or same station. This device consist of main shell that used to store pig which come from pipeline and eccentric reducer to adapt pipeline size with main shell. This device equipped with locking mechanism using thread at top and bottom that operated manually. This mechanism used to lock up the vessel lid and eccentric reducer that is connected to main shell, so operator can easily open the vessel lid and replace eccentric reducer according to needs. In this design the pig receiver design made for gas pipeline with maximum operasional pressure 660 [psig], pipeline diameter size 10” to 16” with 18” main shell diameter.Key words : Pig receiver, eccentric reducer, pigging, size.ABSTRAKProses pigging dilakukan untuk membersihkan jalur pipa dari air, kotoran, maupun sisa hasil pengelasan pada sambungan jalur pipa. Kualitas gas yang didistribusikan akan berpengaruh jika ada kotoran yang tersisa di dalam jalur pipa. Jalur pipa juga akan lebih cepat berkarat jika ada air yang tertinggal di dalam jalur pipa, laju korosi pada jalur pipa dapat ditentukan dari hasil pengamatan corrosion coupon yang dipasang pada jalur pipa. Setelah proses pigging atau pembersihan dilakukan, pig receiver tidak akan digunakan sampai proses pigging atau pembersihan berikutnya. Oleh sebab itu timbul gagasan untuk merancang pig receiver dengan eccentric reducer yang dapat diganti sehingga pig receiver dapat digunakan pada ukuran jalur pipa lainnya pada sebuah plant atau station yang sama. Alat ini terdiri dari main shell yang berfungsi sebagai tempat menyimpan pig yang datang dari pipeline dan eccentric reducer untuk menyesuaikan ukuran pipeline dengan main shell. Alat ini dilengkapi dengan mekanisme penguncian menggunakan ulir transmisi pada bagian atas dan bawah yang dioperasikan secara manual. Mekanisme ini digunakan untuk mengunci tutup bejana dan eccentric reducer yang terhubung pada main shell, sehingga operator dapat dengan mudah membuka tutup bejana dan dapat mengganti eccentric reducer sesuai kebutuhan. Dalam rancangan ini dibuat desain Pig Receiver untuk pipa gas dengan tekanan operasional maksimum 660 [psig], diameter jalur pipa sebesar 10” sampai 16” dengan diameter mayor shell adalah 18”.Katakunsi : Pig receiver, eccentric reducer, pigging, ukuran.
SUPPORT VECTOR MACHINES UNTUK MENYELESAIKAN MASALAH KLASIFIKASI PADA PENGENALAN POLA
Authors: Abdillah Abdul Azis
Published: August 2019

ABSTRACTSupport Vector Machines (SVM) are known as the latest machine learning (machine learning) methods to solve classification problems in pattern recognition. This paper discusses the use of SVM in solving problems in pattern recognition. An example of the problem given in this paper contains a collection of data on Any Linearly Separable Datase, Any dataset with Noise, and Real datasets.Key words: machine learning, pattern recognition, SVMABSTRAKSupport Vector Machines (SVM) dikenal sebagai metode machine learning (pembelajaran mesin) paling mutakhir untuk menyelesaikan masalah klasifikasi pada pengenalan pola. Tulisan ini bertujuan untuk membahas penggunaan SVM dalam memecahkan masalah klasifikasi pada pengenalan pola. Contoh masalah yang diberikan pada tulisan ini meliputi klasifikasi data pada Sembarang Linearly Separable Dataset, Sembarang Dataset dengan Noise, dan Real dataset.Kata kunci : klasifikasi, pengenalan pola, SVM
KONTROL HEAT STRESS INDEX RUANGAN AYAM BROILER PADA PERIODE BROODING SECARA OTOMATIS BERBASIS ARDUINO-UNO
Authors: Yasa I Made Sumerta , Darminta I Ketut , Ta I Ketut
Published: August 2019

ABSTRACTHeat stress index is a combination of two types of temperature and percentage (%) of humidity. The amount of heat stress index will determine the success of broiler breeders especially in the brooding period. If the heat stress index is not fulfilled then the performance of his chickens can be problematic and can even lead to high mortality. Thus it is necessary to control the heat stress index tool, with the problem of how to plan, implement and test results control heat stress index broiler chicks brooding period automatically based on Arduino-Uno is in accordance with the setpoint. The purpose of this study is to plan, implement and obtain test results in accordance with the planning of this heat stress index control system. Methods used experimental research methods, including with 1) the development of system concepts, 2) system planning, 3) implementation of control systems and 4) system testing. The result analysis is done by quantitative descriptive method that is by comparing the planned setpoint value with the value of the test result of the tool. The results show that it is capable of planning, implementing Arduino-based heat stress index system in a broiler chamber / broiler room during the brooding period at the planned set point and in stable condition..Key words : heat stress index, brooding, broilerABSTRAKHeat stress index merupakan kombinasi dua besaran yaitu suhu dan persentase (%) kelembaban. Besaran heat stress index sangat menentukan keberhasilan peternak ayam broiler khususnya pada periode brooding. Apabila heat stress index ini tidak tepenuhi maka performance-nya ayam bisa bermasalah dan malah dapat menyebabkan tingginya kematian. Dengan demikian sangat dibutuhkan alat kontrol heat stress index, dengan permasalahan yaitu bagaimana merencanakan, mengimplemntasikan dan hasil pengujian kontrol heat stress index pada ruang anak ayam broiler periode brooding secara otomatis berbasis Arduino-Uno apakah sesuai dengan setpoint. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah dapat merencanakan, mengimplemntasikan dan memperoleh hasil pengujian yang sesuai dengan perencanaan dari sistem kontrol heat stress index ini. Metode yang dipergunakan metode penelitian eksperimen, diantaranya dengan 1) pengembangan konsep sistem, 2) perencanaan sistem, 3) implementasi sistem kontrol dan 4) pengujian sistem. Analisa hasil dilakukan dengan metode deskriptif kuantitatif yaitu dengan membanding nilai setpoint yang direncanakan dengan nilai hasil uji alat. Hasil menunjukkan yaitu mampu merencanakan, mengimplemntasikan sistem kontrol heat stress index berbasis Arduino pada sebuah ruang/kandang ayam broiler pada periode brooding pada setpoint yang direncanakan serta dalam kondisi stabil.Kata kunci : heat stress index, brooding, broiler.
Diagnostic Value of Transvaginal Ultrasonography to Determined Degree of Myometrium Invasion in Endometrial Cancer
Authors: Nuryanto Kartiwa H , Fransiska Selly
Published: August 2019

Abstract

Objectives: To show transvaginal ultrasound accuracy in determining the degree of myometrial invasion of endometrial cancer within five years in RSCM. Also, to know histopathology characteristics of endometrial cancer according to cell type, degree of invasion, and degree of differentiation of endometrial cancer, within the last five years in RSCM.

Methods: This study is a cross-sectional study with a sample of 82 subjects in January 2011 – December 2016 at RSCM. The data were collected by total sampling from cancer registry oncology and gynaecology division of Obstetrics and Gynecology FKUI-RSCM.

Results: Transvaginal USG diagnostic test in detection invasion has sensitivity, specificity, PPV, and NPV as 78.79%, 50%, 86.67%, 36.36% respectively. For determine degree of myometrial invasion it has sensitivity, specificity, PPV, and NPV as 81.40%, 76.92%, 79.55%, and 78.90% respectively.

Conclusions: Transvaginal ultrasound has better accuracy in determining the degree of invasion compared to detecting myometrial invasion in endometrial cancer. In determining the degree of invasion, its sensitivity and specificity are 81.4% and 76.92%. For detecting any invasion its sensitivity and specificity was only 79.41% and 57.14%. Our study showed that transvaginal ultrasound was an efficient diagnostic tool fo determine further treatment and prognosis in endometrial cancer

Keywords: accuracy test, HPV DNA,  liquid-based cytology, pre-cervical cancer lesion.

 

Abstrak

Tujuan : Mengetahui akurasi USG transvaginal dalam menilai invasi miometrium pada kanker endometrium dalam 5 tahun terakhir di RSCM. Serta karakteristik histopatologi berdasarkan tipe, invasi, dan derajat diferensiasi kanker endometrium dalam 5 tahun terakhir di RSCM

Metode :Penelitian potong lintang dengan jumlah sampel 82 subjek pada Jan 2011 – Des 2016 di RSCM. Data dikumpulkan secara total sampling dari registrasi kanker divisi Onkologi Ginekologi FKUI RSCM dan dilakukan uji diagnostik

Hasil: Uji diagnostik USG transvaginal menilai ada tidaknya invasi memiliki sensitivitas, spesifisitas, NPP, NPN sebesar 78,79%, 50%, 86,67%, 36,36%. Sedangkan hasil uji diagnostik usg transvaginal dalam menilai derajat invasi memiliki sensitivitas, spesifisitas, NPP, NPN sebesar 81.40%, 76.92%, 79.55%, dan 78.90%

Kesimpulan :USG transvaginal dalam menilai derajat invasi lebih baik dibanding menentukan ada tidaknya invasi. Sensitivitas, spesifisitasnya 81,4-% dan 76,92%  dibanding 79,41% dan 57,14%. Dalam hal ini USG transvaginal dapat digunakan sebagai alat bantu diagnostik efisien dalam menentukan tata laksana dan prognosis kanker endometrium

Kata kunci :  kanker endometrium, kedalaman invasi, uji diagnostik, USG transvaginal.
HE4 Levels in Ovarian Cancer-Resistant Menopausal Women
Authors: Irawan Wiwi , Rauf Syahrul , A. Mappaware Nasrudin , T. Chalid St. Maisuri
Published: August 2019

Abstract

Objective: To analyse the predictive value of HE4 in ovarian cancer patients according to their resistance and menopausal status

Methods: Thirteen premenopausal and twenty-five menopausal ovarian cancer patients were measured for HE4 levels measured using automated chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay ARCHITECT HE4. Patients categorized into resistant and non-resistant after six cycles of chemotherapy in addition to their clinical symptoms and ultrasound image of cancer.

Results: The mean HE4 levels were higher in the resistant group compared with a non-resistant group (274.97 pmol/l vs 128.83 pmol/l; p=0.015). Five menopausal resistant women with HE4 levels >140 pmol/l compared with two women in the non-resistant group. In the pre-menopause group, eight resistant women with HE level >70 pmol/l whereas four women in the non-resistant group. HE levels in menopausal and premenopausal for both ovarian cancers resistant and non-resistant were not significantly different (p>0.05).

Conclusion: HE4 levels in resistant ovarian cancer patients are higher compared with non-resistant but do not predict ovarian cancer resistance based on patient menopausal status.

Keywords: HE4, ovarian cancer, resistance.

 

Abstak

Tujuan: Untuk menganalisis nilai prediktif HE4 pada pasien kanker ovarium berdasarkan resistensi dan status menopausenya

Metode: Dilakukan pengukuran kadar HE4 menggunakan metode microparticle immunoassay ARCHITECT HE4 terhadap pasien kanker ovarium terdiri dari 13 perempuan premenopausal dan 25 perempuan menopause. Pasien dikategorikan menjadi resisten dan tidak resisten setelah 6 siklus kemoterapi selain gejala klinis dan gambar USG.

Hasil: Rerata kadar HE4 rata-rata lebih tinggi pada kelompok yang resisten dibandingkan dengan kelompok yang tidak resisten (274,97 pmol/l vs 128,83 pmol/l; p=0,015). Terdapat 5 perempuan menopause yang resisten kanker ovarium dan 2 perempuan dalam kelompok yang tidak resisten dengan kadar HE4 >140 pmol/l. Pada kelompok premenopause, 8 perempuan yang resisten dengan tingkat HE >70 pmol/l sedangkan 4 perempuan dalam kelompok tidak resisten. Kadar HE dalam menopause dan premenopause untuk kedua kanker ovarium resisten dan tidak resisten tidak berbeda secara signifikan (p>0,05).

Kesimpulan: Kadar HE4 pada pasien kanker ovarium lebih tinggi daripada tidak resisten tetapi tidak memprediksi resistensi kanker ovarium berdasarkan status menopause pasien.

Kata kunci : HE4, kanker ovarium, resistensi .
Uji Teknik Difusi Menggunakan Kertas Saring Media Tampung Antibiotik dengan Escherichia Coli Sebagai Bakteri Uji
Authors: Khusuma Ari , Safitri Yuriska , Yuniarni Annisa , Rizki Kurnia
Published: August 2019

Uji sensitivitas antibiotik merupakan tes yang digunakan untuk menguji kepekaan suatu bakteri terhadap suatu antibiotik.  Uji sensitivitas bertujuan untuk mengetahui efektifitas dari suatu antibiotik (Wahyutomo, 2009).  Uji sensitivitas dapat dilakukan dengan beberapa cara yaitu: difusi cakram diffusion test), pengenceran atau dilusi (dilusi test), antimicrobial gradient dan short automated instrumen system. Uji sensitivitas dengan metode difusi agar plate dapat dilakukan dengan cara Kirby Bauer dengan teknik disc diffusion (cakram disk) atau teknik sumuran.  Rancangan penelitian ini adalah penelitian eksperiment dengan melihat uji difusi menggunakan kertas saring sebagai media tampung antibiotik dengan menggunakan E.coli sebagai bakteri uji. Data yang diperlukan adalah diameter zona hambat yang terbentuk pada media MHA saat melakukan uji sensitivitas metode difusi sumuran dan  teknik kertas saring sebagai media tampung antibiotik. Hasil penelitian ini menunjukan bahwa rerata diamater zona hambat antibiotik ciprofloxacin terhadap bakteri E.coli dengan menggunakan metode difusi teknik sumuran adalah 62 mm menunjukan hasil sensitif, rerata diameter zona hambat yang terbentuk dengan menggunakan inovasi uji difusi menggunakan kertas saring sebagai media tampung antibiotik ciprofloxacin adalah 39 mm  menunjukan hasil sensitif. Rerata diameter zona hambat yang terbentuk pada inovasi uji difusi menggunakan kertas saring sebagai media tampung antibiotik lebih kecil dibandingkan dengan rerata diameter zona hambat menggunakan metode difusi teknik sumuran. Rata-rata diameter  zona hambat antibiotik dengan  menggunakan kertas saring sebagai media tampung  adalah 39 mm. Perbedaan diameter zona hambat menggunakan teknik  sumuran dengan teknik kertas saring sebagai media tampung antibiotik adalah 62 mm dan 39 mm.
Cotidiano alimentar das crianças de escolas de educação infantil: visão dos funcionários
Authors: Ramos Patricia Mergen
Published: August 2019

Objetivo: Detectar os problemas que dificultam a efetiva educação alimentar e nutricional dentro de escolas de educação infantil. Metodologia: Foram selecionadas 55 mulheres que trabalham em escolas de educação infantil de Esteio. A coleta de dados foi por meio de questionários, um sobre alimentação saudável e o outro sobre hábitos e costumes. Resultados: 86,84% das participantes relataram não apresentarem problemas de saúde. Sobre a educação, pode-se observar que existe uma dependência do grau de instrução com o local pesquisado. Portanto, quanto mais educação mais entendimento sobre o cotidiano alimentar das crianças. Sobre a etnia, foi possí­vel verificar que existe uma diferença entre o observado na pesquisa e o panorama populacional da região, a etnia não influência no cotidiano alimentar das crianças. Conclusão: Há necessidade de capacitação dos profissionais da área da saúde e da pedagogia, assim como auxiliares e proprietários, que possam ter orientações sobre as questões alimentares. Nesse sentido o trabalho multidisciplinar com a presença do profissional nutricionista, para transmissão do conhecimento técnico em relação í  alimentação saudável é de suma importância.Palavras-chave: alimentos formulados, alimentos infantis, nutrição da criança.
Perubahan Perilaku Pemilih (Voting Behaviour) Partai Politik Islam Dalam Sejarah Kofigurasi Politik Indonesia
Authors: Mahardika Ahmad Gelora , Fatayati Sun
Published: August 2019

This paper aims to examine the phenomenon of the decline of voters in Islamic ideology in Indonesia. Indonesian history notes that Islamic Political Parties have triumphed in political circles with their ability to impose fierce debates against nationalist groups and religions other than Islam when discussing constitutional changes. The endless debate then forced President Soekarno to issue a presidential decree. The sweet history of Islamic Political Parties began to decline when the regime of the New Order government fused authoritatively and caused no more unity of opinion in the Islamic party. At present, Islamic ideology political parties also have a tendency to turn to the Cacth All Party, which is considered more profitable and provides wider opportunities to gain power. This paper aims to prove the changing behavior of voters of Islamic political parties in the history of Indonesia's political configuration.
Pembaharuan Pengelolaan Pesantren Tradisional
Authors: Waidi Waidi , Saefudin Didin , Mujahidin E.
Published: August 2019

This research is motivated by representatives of change in education in traditional Islamic boarding schools which are academic considerations of the tradition and mordenization of the pesantren education system which the leaders of Islamic education have raised more goals for pesantren. Therefore this study was formulated to describe the Renewal of Management of Traditional Islamic Boarding Schools in Al-Hikmah Islamic Boarding School in the Object of Sirampog Brebes, Central Java. The method used in this study is a qualitative method with descriptive research. This research succeeded in completing the renewal of the pesantren tradsional Al-Hikmah Education. The Sirampog Brebes object functioned integrally in responding to changes based on the pesantren culture which contained First, the purpose of the pesantren education that could not be used for tafaqquh fi al-din would also be used for this information, social and politics and technology. Second, the aspect of pesantren education programs is adaptive while maintaining the kitab kuning (classic book) that is adapted to current knowledge and technology. The third Islamic boarding school, the innovative aspect, using the sorogan, bandongan and wetonan models that are characteristic of pesantren, but there are efforts to improve the pattern of pesantren in the supported pesantren, and teaching materials, values ​​and ways of life in pesantren, because has advantages.
Incorporación de inmigrantes sudamericanos en Santiago de Chile: redes migratorias y movilidad ocupacional
Authors: Baeza Virgilio Pablo
Published: August 2019

The article explores the characteristics of the incorporation of South American immigrants in Santiago. Based on survey data, the analysis focused on the importance of using networks at the time of arriving in the city and looking for work, and the trajectories of occupational mobility of immigrants in relation to their positions in origin. The results shows the key role of social capital in the processes of incorporation into the city, the existence of differentiated and heterogeneous incorporation trajectories among the different national groups, and the presence of a segmented U-shaped pattern of occupational mobility.
The Bio Immune(G)ene Medicine or How to Use a Maximum of Molecular Resources of the Cell for Therapeutic Purposes
Authors: Gilbert Glady
Published: August 2019

At a time when emerging concepts capable of revolutionizing old medical paradigms are flourishing, such as systems biology, integrative medicine or personalized medicine, it is of the utmost interest to observe how such concepts can be applied in the context of a therapeutic method that is both innovative and devoid of any undesirable effect, because it simply seeks to play a regulatory role. The aim of this method called Bio Immune(G)ene MEDicine (BI(G)MED) is to make the best use of all the molecular resources available to the cell to restore the homeostasis of the latter at its various levels of genome, epigenome, transcriptome, proteome and metabolome. To achieve this goal, it is of course essential to use means borrowed to nanobiotechnologies to ensure a high efficiency of the molecules made available to the cells to facilitate their self-regulation thanks to a therapeutic model essentially based on true biomimicry. The description of one or the other clinical case will show how this method can be effective in polypathologies, sometimes very advanced and often recurrent, without ever harming the patient elsewhere.
A Novel Virtual Sample Generation Method to Overcome the Small Sample Size Problem in Computer Aided Medical Diagnosing
Authors: Wedyan Mohammad , Crippa Alessandro , Al-Jumaily Adel
Published: August 2019

Deep neural networks are successful learning tools for building nonlinear models. However, a robust deep learning-based classification model needs a large dataset. Indeed, these models are often unstable when they use small datasets. To solve this issue, which is particularly critical in light of the possible clinical applications of these predictive models, researchers have developed approaches such as virtual sample generation. Virtual sample generation significantly improves learning and classification performance when working with small samples. The main objective of this study is to evaluate the ability of the proposed virtual sample generation to overcome the small sample size problem, which is a feature of the automated detection of a neurodevelopmental disorder, namely autism spectrum disorder. Results show that our method enhances diagnostic accuracy from 84%–95% using virtual samples generated on the basis of five actual clinical samples. The present findings show the feasibility of using the proposed technique to improve classification performance even in cases of clinical samples of limited size. Accounting for concerns in relation to small sample sizes, our technique represents a meaningful step forward in terms of pattern recognition methodology, particularly when it is applied to diagnostic classifications of neurodevelopmental disorders. Besides, the proposed technique has been tested with other available benchmark datasets. The experimental outcomes showed that the accuracy of the classification that used virtual samples was superior to the one that used original training data without virtual samples.
Sound Archaeology: A Study of the Acoustics of Three World Heritage Sites, Spanish Prehistoric Painted Caves, Stonehenge, and Paphos Theatre
Authors: Till Rupert
Published: August 2019

This paper explores the acoustics of three UNESCO World Heritage Sites: five caves in Spain that feature prehistoric paintings that are up to 40,000 years old; Stonehenge stone circle in England, which is over 4000 years old; and Paphos Theatre in Cyprus, which is 2000 years old. Issues with standard acoustic methods are discussed, and a range of different possible approaches are explored for sound archaeology studies, also known as archaeoacoustics. The context of the three sites are examined followed by an analysis of their acoustic properties. Firstly, early decay time is explored, including a comparison of these sites to contemporary concert halls. Subsequently, reverberation, clarity of speech, and bass response are examined. Results show that the caves have a wide range of different naturally occurring acoustics, including reverberation, and strong bass effects. Stonehenge has acoustics that change as the design of the site develops, with some similarities to the effects in the caves. Acoustic effects vary considerably as you move further into the centre of the stone circle, and as the stone circle develops through time; these effects would be noticeable, and are a by-product of the human building of ritual sites. At Paphos Theatre, acoustics vary from the best seats on the front rows, backwards; here, the architects have considered acoustics in the design of the building. The paper illustrates the changing acoustics of ritual sites in human cultures, showing how sound contributed to giving spaces an individual character, helping to afford a sense of contextualized ritual place.
Modeling of High Density Polyethylene Regression Rate in the Simulation of Hybrid Rocket Flowfields
Authors: Bianchi Daniele , Leccese Giuseppe , Nasuti Francesco , Onofri Marcello , Carmicino Carmine
Published: August 2019

Numerical analysis of hybrid rocket internal ballistics is carried out with a Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes solver integrated with a customized gas–surface interaction wall boundary condition and coupled with a radiation code based on the discrete transfer method. The fuel grain wall boundary condition is based on species, mass, and energy conservation equations coupled with thermal radiation exchange and finite-rate kinetics for fuel pyrolysis modeling. Fuel pyrolysis is governed by the convective and radiative heat flux reaching the surface and by the energy required for the propellant grain to heat up and pyrolyze. Attention is focused here on a set of static firings performed with a lab-scale GOX/HDPE motor working at relatively low oxidizer mass fluxes. A sensitivity analysis was carried out on the literature pyrolysis models for HDPE, to evaluate the possible role of the uncertainty of such models on the actual prediction of the regression rate. A reasonable agreement between the measured and computed averaged regression rate and chamber pressure was obtained, with a noticeable improvement with respect to solutions without including radiative energy exchange.
Intermittent colonisation with Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcal aureus can be eradicated from the Airways of Adults with Cystic Fibrosis
Authors: Ranzenbacher Lucy , Song Yang , Merchant Alison , Middleton Peter G
Published: August 2019

The airways of people with cystic fibrosis (CF) are chronically colonised with different pathogens. With recent interest in methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), we have recently examined the rates of MRSA colonisation in different groups within our CF Service. This paper now examines the effectiveness of eradication strategies to clear the MRSA colonisation.
1D Barcode Detection via Integrated Deep-Learning and Geometric Approach
Authors: Xiao Yunzhe , Ming Zhong
Published: August 2019

Vision-based 1D barcode reading has been the subject of extensive research in recent years due to the high demand for automation in various industrial settings. With the aim of detecting the image region of 1D barcodes, existing approaches are both slow and imprecise. Deep-learning-based methods can locate the 1D barcode region fast but lack an adequate and accurate segmentation process; while simple geometric-based techniques perform weakly in terms of localization and take unnecessary computational cost when processing high-resolution images. We propose integrating the deep-learning and geometric approaches with the objective of tackling robust barcode localization in the presence of complicated backgrounds and accurately detecting the barcode within the localized region. Our integrated real-time solution combines the advantages of the two methods. Furthermore, there is no need to manually tune parameters in our approach. Through extensive experimentation on standard benchmarks, we show that our integrated approach outperforms the state-of-the-art methods by at least 5%.
Impacts of Climate Change on the Eastern Mediterranean and the Middle East and North Africa Region and the Water–Energy Nexus
Authors: Lange Manfred A.
Published: August 2019

The present paper aims to elucidate impacts of climate change on the availability and security of water and energy in the Middle East and North Africa region (MENA region; including the Eastern Mediterranean) in the context of the water–energy nexus. It largely builds on existing knowledge and understanding and aims to present a review of existing information on this topic. The region is particularly challenged by a number of factors, including the large variability of bio-geographical characteristics, extreme population growth over the last few decades, and substantial societal and economical transitions, as well as armed conflicts in some of the countries in the region. Anticipated changes in climate conditions will exacerbate the challenges regarding water and energy security in the region. Major impacts of climate change include a significant increase in summer temperatures, which will lead to a growing number of heat waves, primarily in urban structures. A general decrease in precipitation in many of the MENA countries is foreseen, resulting in enhanced droughts and a growing number of dry spells. In addressing energy and water scarcities and their mutual interrelationships, an integrated water–energy nexus concept offers promising prospects to improve environmental, climate, human, and political security. However, only very few countries in the MENA region have presently implemented such a concept. Mitigation and adaptation strategies addressing water and energy scarcity include enhanced efficiency of resource use, integrated technology assessments regarding electricity generation, and a stronger reliance on renewable/solar technologies. While looking at the MENA region as a whole, some emphasis will be given to Cyprus and the Eastern Mediterranean.
Insights on the Use of α-Lipoic Acid for Therapeutic Purposes
Authors: Salehi Bahare , Berkay Yılmaz Yakup , Antika Gizem , Boyunegmez Tumer Tugba , Fawzi Mahomoodally Mohamad , Lobine Devina , Akram Muhammad , Riaz Muhammad , Capanoglu Esra , Sharopov Farukh , Martins Natália , Cho William C. , Sharifi-Rad Javad
Published: August 2019

α-lipoic acid (ALA, thioctic acid) is an organosulfur component produced from plants, animals, and humans. It has various properties, among them great antioxidant potential and is widely used as a racemic drug for diabetic polyneuropathy-associated pain and paresthesia. Naturally, ALA is located in mitochondria, where it is used as a cofactor for pyruvate dehydrogenase (PDH) and α-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase complexes. Despite its various potentials, ALA therapeutic efficacy is relatively low due to its pharmacokinetic profile. Data suggests that ALA has a short half-life and bioavailability (about 30%) triggered by its hepatic degradation, reduced solubility as well as instability in the stomach. However, the use of various innovative formulations has greatly improved ALA bioavailability. The R enantiomer of ALA shows better pharmacokinetic parameters, including increased bioavailability as compared to its S enantiomer. Indeed, the use of amphiphilic matrices has capability to improve ALA bioavailability and intestinal absorption. Also, ALA’s liquid formulations are associated with greater plasma concentration and bioavailability as compared to its solidified dosage form. Thus, improved formulations can increase both ALA absorption and bioavailability, leading to a raise in therapeutic efficacy. Interestingly, ALA bioavailability will be dependent on age, while no difference has been found for gender. The present review aims to provide an updated on studies from preclinical to clinical trials assessing ALA’s usages in diabetic patients with neuropathy, obesity, central nervous system-related diseases and abnormalities in pregnancy.
Epigenome Mapping Identifies Tumor-Specific Gene Expression in Primary Rectal Cancer
Authors: Flebbe Hannah , Hamdan Feda H. , Kari Vijayalakshmi , Kitz Julia , Gaedcke Jochen , Ghadimi B. Michael , Johnsen Steven A. , Grade Marian
Published: August 2019

Epigenetic alterations play a central role in cancer development and progression. The acetylation of histone 3 at lysine 27 (H3K27ac) specifically marks active genes. While chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) followed by next-generation sequencing (ChIP-seq) analyses are commonly performed in cell lines, only limited data are available from primary tumors. We therefore examined whether cancer-specific alterations in H3K27ac occupancy can be identified in primary rectal cancer. Tissue samples from primary rectal cancer and matched mucosa were obtained. ChIP-seq for H3K27ac was performed and differentially occupied regions were identified. The expression of selected genes displaying differential occupancy between tumor and mucosa were examined in gene expression data from an independent patient cohort. Differential expression of four proteins was further examined by immunohistochemistry. ChIP-seq for H3K27ac in primary rectal cancer and matched mucosa was successfully performed and revealed differential binding on 44 regions. This led to the identification of genes with increased H3K27ac, i.e., RIPK2, FOXQ1, KRT23, and EPHX4, which were also highly upregulated in primary rectal cancer in an independent dataset. The increased expression of these four proteins was confirmed by immunohistochemistry. This study demonstrates the feasibility of ChIP-seq-based epigenome mapping of primary rectal cancer and confirms the value of H3K27ac occupancy to predict gene expression differences.
Current-Limiting Soft Starting Method for a High-Voltage and High-Power Motor
Authors: Wang Yifei , Yin Kaiyang , Yuan Youxin , Chen Jing
Published: August 2019

Focusing on the starting problems of a high-voltage and high-power motor, such as large starting current, low power factor, waste of resources, and lack of harmonic control, this paper proposes a current-limiting soft starting method for a high-voltage and high-power motor. The method integrates functions like autotransformer voltage reduction–current limiting starting, magnetron voltage regulation–current limiting starting, and reactive power compensation during starting, and then the power filtering subsystem is turned on to filter out harmonics in power system as the starting process terminates. According to the current-limiting starting characteristic curve, the topological structure of the integrated device is established and then the functional logic switching strategy is put forward. Afterwards, the mechanisms of current-limiting starting, reactive compensation and dynamic harmonic filtering are analyzed, and the simulation and experimental evaluation are completed. In particular, the direct starting and the current-limiting are performed by developing a simulation system. In addition, a 10 kV/19,000 kW fan-loaded motor of a steel plant is chosen as the subject to verify the performance of the current-limiting soft starting method. As shown by the experimental results, the motor’s starting current is about 2 times that of its rated current, the power factor is raised to over 0.9 after the reactive power compensation, and the harmonic filter can effectively eliminate current harmonics and reduce the total harmonic distortion (THD) of supply currents.
Survival, Height Growth, and Phytoextraction Potential of Hybrid Poplar and Russian Olive (Elaeagnus Angustifolia L.) Established on Soils Varying in Salinity in North Dakota, USA
Authors: Zalesny Ronald S. , Stange Craig M. , Birr Bruce A.
Published: August 2019

Salt-affected soils in the Northern Great Plains, USA, can impact the long-term survival and growth of trees recommended for agroforestry systems, with Russian olive (Elaeagnus angustifolia L.) being one of few options that survives on these sites. Similarly, hybrid poplars have been used for phytotechnologies on high-salinity soils throughout the world. The objective of this study was to test the survival, height growth, and phytoextraction potential of eight hybrid poplar clones (Populus deltoides Bartr. ex Marsh. × P. nigra L. ‘Robusta’, ‘DN17’, ‘DN182’, ‘DN5’; P. deltoides × P. maximowiczii A. Henry ‘NC14104’, ‘NC14106’; P. nigra × P. maximowiczii ‘NM2’, ‘NM6’) versus Russian olive grown on soils categorized according to initial salinity levels: low (0.1 to 3.9 dS m−1), medium (4.0 to 5.9 dS m−1), and high (6.0 to 10.0 dS m−1). Seven trees per genotype were grown in each salinity treatment at a spacing of 3 × 3 m for four years in Burleigh County, North Dakota. Survival and height were determined following the first four growing seasons, and leaf phytoextraction potential of Al, Ca, Cd, Fe, K, Mg, Mn, Na, and Zn was measured for one-year-old trees. Soil salinity decreased over time, reflecting the phytoextraction potential of the trees. Russian olive did not survive as well as expected, having lower overall survival than three of the hybrid poplar clones (‘DN17’, ‘DN5’, ‘NM6’). At the end of three years when trees were removed per a landowner maintenance agreement, 86%, 71%, and 43% of the Russian olive trees were alive in the low-, medium-, and high-salinity soils, respectively. At this time, ‘NM2’ was the only hybrid poplar clone with similar survival to Russian olive in the high-salinity soils. Russian olive had greater Na, Cd, and Fe leaf concentrations than the hybrid poplar clones, but it also had the worst uptake of Ca and Mg of all genotypes. For hybrid poplar, the P. deltoides × P. nigra genomic group had the broadest clonal variability among all traits, with ‘Robusta’ and ‘DN182’ exhibiting great potential for establishment on high-salinity soils. ‘Robusta’ and ‘DN17’ are the same genotype but they came from different nursery sources (i.e., hence their different nomenclature), and they did not differ for height nor leaf phytoextraction. Populus deltoides × P. maximowiczii clones were not suitable for the soil conditions and silvicultural applications (e.g., tree shelters) of the current study, while P. nigra × P. maximowiczii clones exhibited the most stable performance across all years and salinity treatments. Both ‘NM2’ and ‘NM6’ had superior fourth-year survival and height, as well as average or above average phytoextraction of all elements tested.
Immobilization of Saccharomyces cerevisiae on Apple Pieces to Produce Cider
Authors: Altieri Clelia , Campaniello Daniela , Speranza Barbara , Sinigaglia Milena , Corbo Maria Rosaria , Bevilacqua Antonio
Published: August 2019

Three yeasts (Saccharomyces cerevisiae var. boulardii, a commercial probiotic yeast; S. cerevisiae W13, a wild yeast able to remove ochratoxin A; and S. cerevisiae 17, a wild yeast with promising probiotic traits) were screened for their ability to adhere on apple pieces as a function of different contact times (15–30 min). Then, apple pieces were stored at 4 °C for 15 days, and the viable count of yeasts was periodically assessed. Yeasts were able to adhere on apple pieces after 15 min (7 log cfu/g) and retained their viability throughout the refrigerated storage. In a second step, apple pieces with S. cerevisiae W13 were used to produce cider on a small scale. The variables under investigation were (a) the recycling of pieces up to 10 times and (b) the preliminary storage of pieces at 4 °C before use. Pieces used immediately after yeast immobilization could be successfully used again 10 times and gained a fermentation performance (in terms of yeast amount in cider and ethanol after 24 h) similar to that achieved by free cells. In addition, the preliminary storage of pieces at 4 °C did not affect their performances as reusable starter carriers.
On the Bound Wave Phase Lag
Authors: Guérin Thomas , de Bakker Anouk , Bertin Xavier
Published: August 2019

More than three decades ago, it was noted that the ocean infragravity bound wave increasingly lags behind the forcing short-wave groups when propagating towards the shore. To date, the most recent theoretical prediction of this so-called phase lag remained a first-order approximation in terms of depth variations. Here, a new semi-analytical solution is proposed which does not rely on this approximation. Strong agreement is obtained when the new solution is compared with high-resolution laboratory data involving both bichromatic and random wave conditions. This newly proposed theoretical phase lag is then extensively compared with the former one, highlighting an increasing discrepancy between the two solutions as the relative bottom slope increases. The four influencing parameters, namely the bottom slope, the water depth, the incident short-wave peak period and the incident group period, are shown to impact, each in a specific way, the bound wave phase lag. While the latter is seen to increase with lower water depths and/or with higher short-wave peak periods, both the bottom slope and the group period can affect the phase lag in a different manner. Indeed, steeper bed slopes induce lower phase lags in shallow water but higher ones in deep water, while higher group periods induce higher phase lags for gentle slopes but lower ones for steep slopes.
Potential of Cooperage Byproducts Rich in Ellagitannins to Improve the Antioxidant Activity and Color Expression of Red Wine Anthocyanins
Authors: Escudero-Gilete María Luisa , Hernanz Dolores , Galán-Lorente Celia , Heredia Francisco J. , Jara-Palacios María José
Published: August 2019

Cooperage byproducts are an important source of phenolic compounds that could be used for wine technology applications. The effects of the addition of two types of oak wood shavings (American, AOW, and Ukrainian, UOW) on the antioxidant activity and color of red wine anthocyanins, in a wine model solution, were evaluated by spectrophotometric and colorimetric analyses. Phenolic compounds from shavings, mainly ellagitannins, were determined by ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (UHPLC/MS). Antioxidant and copigmentation effects varied depending on the type of shavings (AOW and UOW) and the phenolic concentration (100, 400, and 500 mg/L). Phenolic compounds from shavings improved the color characteristics (darker and more bluish color) and the copigmentation effect of red wine anthocyanins, being UOW a better source of copigments than AOW shavings. The best antioxidant activity was found for the 400 and 500 mg/L model solutions for both types of shavings. Results show a winemaking technological application based on the repurposing of cooperage byproducts, which could improve color and antioxidant characteristics of red wines.
Regulation of KIR3DL3 Expression via miRNA
Authors: Nutalai Rungtiwa , Gaudieri Silvana , Jumnainsong Amonrat , Leelayuwat Chanvit
Published: August 2019

Killer-cell immunoglobulin-like receptor (KIR) 3DL3 is a framework gene present in all human KIR haplotypes. Although the structure of KIR3DL3 is suggestive of an inhibitory receptor, the function of KIR3DL3 has not been demonstrated and cognate ligands have not been identified. KIR3DL3 has been shown to be constitutively expressed at a low RNA level in peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) and decidual natural kill (NK) cells, but cell surface expression of KIR3DL3 cannot be detected. Accordingly, post-transcriptional regulation of KIR3DL3 should exist. Using bioinformatics analysis, we identified three candidate micro ribonucleic acids (miRNAs; miR-26a-5p, -26b-5p and -185-5p) that potentially regulate KIR3DL3 expression. Luciferase reporter assays utilizing constructs with mutated miRNA-binding sites of miR-26a-5p, -26b-5p and -185-5p in the 3’-untranslated region (3’ UTR) of KIR3DL3 resulted in up-regulation of luciferase activity demonstrating a potential mechanism of gene regulation. Furthermore, knockdown of the same endogenous miRNAs using silencing ribonucleic acid (siRNA) led to induced surface expression of KIR3DL3. In conclusion, we provide a novel mechanism of functional regulation of KIR3DL3 via miRNAs. These findings are relevant in understanding the generation of KIR repertoire and NK cell clonality.
The Relation Between Tobacco Tax Structure and Corruption in European Union Member States
Authors: Shah Ajay , Eminson Katie , Bogdanovica Ilze , Britton John
Published: August 2019

Background: Taxing tobacco products is one of the most effective tobacco control measures, and most countries apply a combination of specific taxes, which comprise a fixed amount per cigarette or gram of hand-rolling tobacco, and ad valorem taxes, which increase in proportion to the cost of the product. Since specific taxes reduce price differentials across tobacco product ranges while ad valorem taxes amplify them, we hypothesised that tobacco companies seeking to minimise the effect of tax increases on sales across a range of products will tend to favour, and hence lobby for, ad valorem rather than specific taxes; and that relatively corrupt governments would be more susceptible to such lobbying and hence, more likely to favour ad valorem taxes. Methods: We searched for cigarette tax data and Transparency International Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) scores for current 28 EU Member States for the years 1995 to 2017/8. Trends in cigarette tax levels and the ratio of ad valorem to specific taxes at a national and mean EU level were analysed by visual inspection, the within-country relation between the ad valorem to specific tax ratio and CPI scores over time by time-series regression analysis, and at EU level, for which complete data were available from 1995 to 2017, using a multi-level regression model. Results: Within most Member States, the ad valorem to specific cigarette tax ratio declined over the study period and was not significantly associated with corruption score. However, at an aggregate EU-level, our multi-level model indicated that reduced corruption was associated with a significant increase in the ad valorem to specific cigarette tax ratio, by 0.04 (95% confidence interval: 0.003–0.077, p < 0.036) per unit increase in CPI score. Conclusions: The ratio of ad valorem to specific taxes declined in most EU Member States over the study period, with no evidence that those with higher levels of perceived corruption tended to favour ad valorem taxes.
Changes in Cognitive Function and Risk Factors for Cognitive Impairment of the Elderly in China: 2005–2014
Authors: Zhang Qilin , Wu Yanli , Han Tiankuo , Liu Erpeng
Published: August 2019

Background: The cognitive function of the elderly has become a focus of public health research. Little is known about the changes of cognitive function and the risk factors for cognitive impairment in the Chinese elderly; thus, the purposes of this study are as follows: (1) to describe changes in cognitive function in the Chinese elderly from 2005–2014 and (2) to explore risk factors for cognitive impairment of the Chinese elderly. Design and setting: A total of 2603 participants aged 64 years and above participated in the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey (CLHLS) and were followed up from 2005 to 2014. Cognitive function and cognitive impairment were assessed using the Chinese version of the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE). Binary logistic regression analysis was used to estimate the odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) of cognitive impairment. Results: Results revealed that the cognitive function of the Chinese elderly shows diversified changes: deterioration (55.09%), unchanged (17.21%) and improvement (27.70%). In addition, there are significant demographic differences in gender, age, education, marriage and other aspects when it comes to the changes of cognitive function in Chinese elderly. In the binary logistic regression analysis, female, increased age, lower education level, no spouse, less income, worse PWB (psychological well-being), less fresh fruit and vegetable intake, more activities of daily living (ADL) limitations, lower social engagement were significantly associated with higher odds for cognitive impairment. Conclusions: Various interventions should be implemented to maintain cognitive function in Chinese elderly.