bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Greenhouse gases and air pollutants monitoring project around Jakarta megacity
Authors: Nishihashi M , Mukai H , Terao Y , Hashimoto S , Osonoi Y , Boer R , Ardiansyah M , Budianto B , Immanuel G S , Rakhman A , Nugroho R , Suwedi N , Rifai A , Ihsan I M , Sulaiman A , Gunawan D , Suharguniyawan E , Nugraha M S , Wattimena R C , Ilahi A F
Published: August 2019

National Institute for Environmental Studies (NIES) has been implementing a joint monitoring project of greenhouse gases (GHGs) and air pollutants in Indonesia with Bogor Agricultural University (IPB), Agency for the Assessment and Application of Technology (BPPT), and Meteorological, Climatological, and Geophysical Agency (BMKG). To estimate the amount of anthropogenic emissions from Jakarta megacity (Jabodetabek) and compare with city activities, we developed a ground-based comprehensive monitoring system of GHGs and air pollutants and installed it at Bogor (center of Bogor city) in March 2016, Serpong (Jakarta suburb) in August 2016, and Cibeureum (mountainous area, background-like site) in March 2017. The monitoring system consists of data acquisition/control units and the instruments for continuous measurements of CO2, CH4, CO, NOx, SO2, O3, aerosol concentrations (PM2.5, PM10, BC) and the chemical components, and meteorological parameters. Flask sampling of air is also done to analyze N2O, SF6, and carbon isotopes (13C, 14C) in CO2 and to validate the continuous measurement data. The result shows that CO2 mole fractions observed at three sites have clear diurnal variations representing the minimum values from 12 to 15 local time while the values at Bogor and Serpong are 6.8 and 7.1 ppm higher than Cibeureum, respectively.
Fine and Coarse Particle Concentration and Composition Measured In Urban And Non Urban Area Bandung, West Java - Indonesia
Authors: Lestari P , Hendra Y
Published: August 2019

Atmospheric particulate concentrations for fine (particulate matter less than 2.5 micron) and coarse particles (particle with diameter 2.5-10 micron) were measured in 2 locations which are Tegalega and Dago Pakar Bandung. Tegalega represents an urban mixed site while Dago Pakar represents rural site. Samples on each location were collected over one or two days-time periods during dry and wet season using Dichotomous sampler and Low Volume Sampler (LVS). Meteorological conditions were also measured simultaneously in the sampling locations. Samples were further analyzed to determine concentrations of particulate mass, elements, sulfate, nitrate and ammonium. The results from this study show that the concentrations of the particulate mass were higher during the dry season than in the wet season for both locations, mixed and background sites. The average fine particles concentrations at mixed site were 37 and 49 μg/m3 for the wet and dry seasons respectively. The average coarse particles concentrations were 27 and 33 μg/m3 for wet and dry seasons respectively. The average mass concentrations of fine particles at the rural site were 30 and 45 μg/m3 for wet and dry seasons respectively, while for the coarse particles the concentrations were 13 for wet season and 17 μg/m3 in dry season. Concentration of Black Carbon, sulfate, nitrate, and ammonium mostly existed in the fine fraction while crustal elements dominated the coarse fraction. Black Carbon, Sulfate, nitrate and ammonium contributed about 55 % to the total mass of the fine particles at Mixed site (Tegalega) and about 52 % at rural site (Dago Pakar) in dry season. Fine particulate contribute about 57 % to the PM10 in Tegalega and about 73% in Dago Pakar (rural site). This indicates that fine particles may come from other places (transported) in the rural area.
Performance of Principal Component Analysis to Classify Precipitation Type from Raindrop Size Distribution Data at Kototabang, Indonesia
Authors: Marzuki  , Hashiguchi H , Vonnisa M , Harmadi  , Shimomai T , Yoseva M , Saufina E
Published: August 2019

This study examines the use of principal component analysis (PCA) to classify the RDSD data at Kototabang, Indonesia. In addition to PCA with 6 attributes (hereinafter called PCA6) that had been developed by a previous researcher, this study also examines PCA with 7 attributes (PCA7) by adding radar reflectivity factor. The PCA is applied to the RDSD that had been classified by a wind profiler into Stratiform (S), deep convective (DC), shallow convective (SHC) and mixed stratiform/convective (MSC). The number of unclassified data is much smaller than that reported by previous study in which it is about 33-47% with PCA6 and 29-44% with PCA7. While the PCA classifies the same group for different rain type from wind profiler, especially for Group I (moderate Do
and large N

W
) and II (small Do
and N

W
), some differences are observed. Each rain type classified by wind profiler has different dominant group in which Group II is dominant for S, Group I and V (large Do
and low N

w
) are dominant for DC, Group I, IV (small Do
and large N

w
) and VI (small Do
and very large N

w
) are dominant for SHC and Group I is also dominant for MSC type.
Real Time Air Quality Monitoring System in Three Sites (Bogor, Cibeureum and Serpong)
Authors: Immanuel G S , Rakhman A , Budianto B , Boer R , Ardiansyah M , Hamid N , Gumilang l , Nishihashi M , Mukai H , Terao Y , Hashimoto S , Osonoi Y , Nugroho R , Suwedi N , Rifai A , Ihsan I M , Sulaiman A , Gunawan D , Suharguniyawan E , Nugraha M S , Wattimena R C
Published: August 2019

Center for Climate Risk and Opportunity Management of Bogor Agricultural University in collaboration with National Institute for Environmental Studies-Japan developed an on-line system to monitor real time air quality and greenhouse gases for three sites surrounding Jakarta area, i.e. Bogor (Center of Bogor city), Serpong (Jakarta suburb) and Cibeureum (mountainous area, background-like site). The system uses standards air-quality monitoring equipped with an array of gaseous and meteorological sensors. The system records data every minute and stores in local storage and sent automatically to a Dropbox every 6 hours. The data in the Dropbox is accessed using API and being processed and analysed using several modules to be converted into useful information and presented in a website. The website will display real time air quality for ozone (O3) and particulate matters (PM2.5 and PM10) and greenhouse gas data (CO2, CH4), Carbon monoxide (CO) Nitrogen Oxide (NOx), and Sulfur Dioxide (SO2), in the past 30-day including local weather data for the past 7 days. These data are then converted into an index indicating the status of the quality of the air surrounding the stations. The index is divided into five categories based on EPA air quality standard, namely good, moderate, unhealthy for sensitive group, unhealthy and very unhealthy. The system can provide the status of air quality index on a six hours basis and easy to be accessed by any stakeholder. The system allows local authorities, communities and industries to easily access and use the information for air quality management purposes and early warning.
Interaction of MJO and diurnal cycle observed by radiosonde data during the first YMC campaign in Bengkulu (November 2017 - January 2018)
Authors: Permana D S , Hutapea T D , Paski J A I , Praja A S , Fatkhuroyan  , Harsa H , Nuryanto D E , Kurniawan R , Makmur E E S , Ardiansyah D
Published: August 2019

The interaction of MJO and diurnal cycle in the Maritime Continent has been identified from previous studies but more observations are needed to understand it clearly. The first campaign of Years of the Maritime Continent (YMC) was conducted in Bengkulu from 16 November 2017 to 15 January 2018. Among various kind of observations, the three-hourly radiosonde sounding was conducted in Bengkulu station during the campaign. This study analyses the radiosonde data to investigate the thermodynamic profile of the mean diurnal cycle (MDC) at different MJO phases. The MDC of potential temperature anomaly (PTA), relative humidity, winds, convective available potential energy (CAPE) and total precipitable water (TPW) in different MJO phases were compared to the MDC values during the campaign (average condition). The obtained MDC PTA has a similar pattern with the results from the Pre-YMC campaign (November - December 2015). During the active MJO phase (3-4), RH is much higher and the zonal westerly wind is up to 6 m/s faster than the average condition at most of the time and elevation below 15 km, and TPW is amplified about 1-4 mm. In contrast, the condition is reversed during inactive MJO phase (1-2). In addition, the CAPE peaks occurred at 06 - 09 UTC and followed by TPW peaks 6 hours later.
The activity of Borneo Vortex as a trigger for extreme rain in West Borneo (case study: 24th – 25th January 2017)
Authors: Isnoor K F N , Firdianto P U , Rejeki H A
Published: August 2019

On January 24th – 25th, 2017, Borneo Vortex has occurred that started to form at 00.00 UTC and caused the extreme rain in some areas of West Borneo. It recorded 154.1 mm/day of heavy rain in the Ketapang regency, part of West Borneo region that indicated as the effect of Borneo Vortex. The objective of this study was to determine the activity of the Borneo Vortex phenomenon that triggers the extreme rain in some areas of West Borneo. Conducted data for this study obtained from ECMWF reanalysis data for some parameters such as vorticity, divergence, vertical velocity, and humidity transport. Those data used for providing an overview of atmospheric conditions during the Borneo Vortex. Rainfall data from six meteorological stations in West Borneo also used to identify the extreme rain. Regional and local scale analysis conducted to determine changes in atmospheric conditions that occur as triggers of extreme rain in the West Borneo region. The result showed that Borneo Vortex has a significant impact to the changing of atmospheric conditions at the area where close to the forming zone of Borneo Vortex and trigger to increase the convective cloud growing up which affects the increase of rainfall in some areas of West Borneo.
Ultrasound methods for determining the influence of yttrium in Mg-0.5Ca-xY
Authors: Savin A , Iftimie N , Steigmann R , Dobrescu G S , Istrate B , Munteanu C
Published: August 2019

Biodegradable materials are used as alternative implants for orthopedic applications due suitable strength, fatigue resistance, ductility and biocorrosion resistance which are features for biodegradable implants. Mechanical properties can be improved by adding alloying elements. Mg alloys have been designed to meet the requirements of bone repair implant materials by adding Calcium and Yttrium. Usually Ca is added to control corrosion rate of Mg alloys and thinning grain boundaries. The system is defined as Mg-0.5Ca-xY (x=0.5, 1, 1.5), varying the Y concentration in order to slow the degradation process. Beside morphological characterization with SEM, EDX, noninvasive testing is required to be carried out the determination of mechanical characteristics. The paper presents the influence of Yttrium over elastic properties of these alloys in order to choose the best values appropriate with human bones, using Resonant Ultrasound Spectroscopy and ultrasound method.
Brown band characteristics of aluminum cladding alloys
Authors: Ghiban B , Natra C
Published: August 2019

Clad materials are a variant of the typical composites, which consist of two or more materials joined on their interface surfaces. Clad materials as metallic composite materials are developed for the needs of user because the single metal often cannot satisfy it application conditions. That is, the advantage of clad materials is that the combination of different properties of materials can satisfy both the need of good mechanical properties and the demand of users such as industrial consumer. The purpose of this study is to study structural aspects in aluminium 3003 clad material with 4343 alloy, after different cladding time. Generally, Al 3003 material is Al–Mn alloy which has superior ductility, but the strength and hardness are low. Aluminium series 4xxx material is Al–Si alloy with high strength and hardness, but low ductility. In our paper we determine the grain sizes of the coated aluminium alloys, before and after cladding, and also the corrosion potentials of these aluminium cladding alloys.
Recovery of LiCoO2 compound from cathodic paste of waste LIBs, by ultrasonography in lactic acid solution
Authors: Bratosin I , Toma C M , Vasile E , Ghica V G , Buzatu M , Petrescu M I , Kovács T A , Necşulescu A D , Iacob G
Published: August 2019

Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) are use in electric devices such as phones, cameras, laptops, etc. and also for electric automotive propulsion. More consumption means more amount of scrap. The wastes of LIBs contain rare and high value metals: Co (32 $/kg), Li, Ni, Cu, Al. Many recycling processes were developed with the purpose of recovering metals contained in used batteries. This paper presents a method for separation active cathodic paste (containing LiCoO2 compound) from the aluminum cathode using a solution of lactic acid and an ultrasonic bath. Cathodic paste has been detached from aluminum foils and analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffractometry. The effects of the lactic acid concentration and the power of ultrasonic bath on separation efficiency were investigated.
Microencapsulated PCMs for thermal energy storage in the range 300-500 °C: pilot-testing
Authors: Tudor A I , Neagoe C , Piticescu R R , Romero-Sanchez M D
Published: August 2019

Phase Change Materials (PCM) became one of the most interesting research directions toward improving the efficiency of concentrated solar power plants. Different methods were proposed to increase storage capacity as a result of the encapsulation protection and efficient thermal energy storage for high operating temperatures. Here, we present a soft chemical process to encapsulate inorganic KNO3 as PCM system using nanostructured ZnO shell material, based on hydrothermal synthesis followed by spray drying and their thermal conductivity measurements are discussed. A unique micro-pilot equipment for the functional characterization of microencapsulated PCMs was designed and built for real time monitoring of thermal properties of these materials.
Smart lock system for Airbnb Platform using global navigation satellite system services
Authors: Matasaru P D
Published: August 2019

Over the last two decades, the world changes have occurred faster and faster. The services provided by GNSS represent major business drivers. Innovative and effective GNSS applications such as location-based smart-phone and hand-held device apps, navigation services and fleet management represent value-added services. The smart lock system is based on the Airbnb [1] platform for lease or rent short-term lodging and solves both a technical/operational limitation and trustfulness issue [2]. The solution is to link the housing, the reservation number and the mobile phone of the customer so that, with the help of localization services, the smart lock of the apartment could be opened only by the person wearing the mobile device, when that person reaches the destination, and only in the specified period of time when the reservation is made. The proposed solution adds value to the already implemented idea, and the targeted market is almost worldwide and can be extended also for car rentals and other rent services.
Visible light wireless data communication in industrial environments
Authors: Riurean S , Leba M , Ionica A , Stoicuta O , Buioca C
Published: August 2019

Significant implementations and encouraging results have already been achieved using visible light communication (VLC) technology for different applications from indoor to free space optics (FSO) and even underwater communication. The LED light fixtures are about to be used with dual functionality - illumination and fast wireless data communication - and when the technology will become mature enough, the general costs for both will considerably decrease. However, especially due to a complex multipath channel impulse response (CIR) evaluation, there are few research in VLC applied in industrial environments. At the same time, in the non-Line of Sight (NLoS) VLC setup with mobile optical transmitter (oTx) and fixed optical receiver (oRx) considered here, both the path loss and multipath-induced dispersion significantly limits the link performance. In this paper, we investigate the CIR into indoor industrial environments. We take into consideration both Intrinsic Optical Properties in Industrial Environments (IOPIEs) and Apparent Optical Properties (AOPs) in Industrial Environments. The VLC setup complexity such as oTx and oRx position and orientation, the geometry and the nature of the indoor surfaces (diffuse or specular) and appropriate positioning of both oTx and oRx required for a suitable implementation of the VLC. The VLC system proposed is also investigate in this work based on data acquisition, simulation and analysis according the ARX mathematical model.
Influence of speed bumps on braking distance
Authors: Maftei A , Dontu A I , Gaiginschi L , Agape I
Published: August 2019

This paper aims to dismiss the popular belief that speed bumps reduce the vehicle speeds or reduce the braking distance. In recent years, the implementation of speed bumps on public roads in Romania has increased. The correct understanding of the role of the speed bump has been misunderstood by the Romanian authorities who use them to slow down traffic on highly used roads. More advanced countries in the segment of traffic controlling and traffic safety have special rules for speed humps and speed bumps. This paper is concerned with the theoretical and experimental study of the performance of the vehicle in emergency braking when passing over such a speed bump. The theoretical study is done by using mathematic formulas and the experimental study is done by using a real car and testing it’s braking distance in normal weather on a dry road that has a speed bump implemented. The study shows the influence of the induced forces from the speed bump in the car dynamics, once because of the low adhesion surface of a worn out speed bump and secondly because of the changes in normal force on the wheel after passing over the hump, the influence of the suspension loading is also backed up by the Tr. Ori study.
Design of a monitoring, alert and control system for indoor exhibition spaces
Authors: Diaconescu V D , Scripcariu L , Mătăsaru P D , Vornicu N , Muraru C , Loghin C
Published: August 2019

The environmental parameters (temperature, relative humidity, UV factor, light intensity and others) of an indoor exhibition space must be monitored and controlled in order to ensure proper conditions for artifacts' preservation. This can be done by a monitoring, alert and control system (MACS) consisting of a sensor network, a communication infrastructure and a central processing device. Data are measured and collected by sensors, sent by the communication network and, finally, stored and processed into the central node (NC). Based on the analysis of data, decisions are made, alerts are sent to the responsible personnel, by short messages to the mobile phone or by email, and commands are sent to the actuators in order to turn on the environmental control devices (air conditioners, heating or light control devices and others). The goal of MACS is to provide efficiently and economically a stable quality of the indoor exhibition environment. A case study is done for an exhibition room from the Metropolitan Museum of Iasi.
Assessment of soil quality in an area with hydrocarbon exploitation activities
Authors: Dragan V M , Tudor B D , Pintilie L G
Published: August 2019

The paper presents an analysis of the soil quality, in the petroleum field from Independenta, Galati. The study was determined by the fact that the hydrocarbon spills from the activity carried out here can have a significant impact on the environment. The paper presents the determinations carried out on soil samples related to heavy metal content and pH. Samples were taken from different areas, starting from a contaminated source, and continuing with the surroundings. For each area, three samples were taken at different levels of depth. Concentration values were compared with the legislation [1] setting out the procedures and technical rules for identifying environmental damage in order to determine the responsibilities for remedying them.
Assessment of trace elements concentration in road dust around the city of Kuala Lumpur
Authors: Wahab M I A , Razak W M A A
Published: August 2019

This study aimed to assess the concentrations and health effect of heavy metals (Cd, Cu, Cr, Ni, Pb and Zn) in road dust of selected locations in the city of Kuala Lumpur. Sampling was conducted for three times at four locations namely Jalan Tun Razak, Jalan Raja Abdullah, Jalan TAR and Jalan Ayer Molek. The concentration of heavy metals in road dust was analyzed by using ICP-MS. The study found that Jalan TAR has the highest concentrations for the heavy metals Cd (0.23 ± 0.04 mg/kg), Cu (116.39 ± 38.77 mg/kg), Ni (83.29 ± 23.66 mg/kg), Pb (43.53 ± 7.00 mg/kg) and second highest for Cr (34.69 ± 3.57 mg/kg) and Zn (86.22 ± 23.07). The pollution level of heavy metals in road dust were assessed by Pollution Index and Pollution Load Index, showing that all locations are highly contaminated except Jalan Ayer Molek. Health risk assessment was determined to access the health effect of carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic to adults and children caused by exposure of heavy metals in road dust. Based on the integrated HI for children at all locations are more than 1. Indicating great chance of non-carcinogenic effects. All incremental lifetime cancer risk (ILTCR) values for adult and children at all locations are within acceptable limit. Traffic and activities that take place in these four locations are the sources of heavy metals. Jalan TAR which is loaded with commercial activities is the most polluted location followed by Jalan Raja Abdullah (commercial area), Jalan Tun Razak (highway area) and Jalan Ayer Molek (residential area).
The Application of Fractal Art in Ceramic Product Design
Authors: Lin Xingrui , Liu Wenming
Published: August 2019

Starting from the meaning of fractal geometry and fractal art, this paper discusses the artistry of fractal, and draws a conclusion through the introduction and analysis of four kinds of classical fractal patterns, that is, fractal art can be called real art, It can be found that fractal art has great artistic charm and practical value in ceramic product design by applying fractal art pattern to the field of traditional ceramic daily necessities and handicraft design, However, as a designer, the art pattern of fractal processing cannot be directly attached to the surface of ceramic products, Further researches and innovation are needed to make fractal art more suitable for ceramic products and enhance the artistic value of ceramic products.
Research on the Design of Henan Regional Characteristic Tourism Culture Creative Products—Taking the cultural and creative products of Chongdugou Scenic Spot in Henan as an example
Authors: Zhang Meng , Bo Meng Zhe , Li Wei
Published: August 2019

This paper studies how to design tourism culture creative products with Henan regional cultural characteristics and spiritual connotations. By analysing the advantages of Henan tourism product development and the main problems existing at present, summarize innovative ways to create distinctive brands, international, and sustainable design. Combining with actual cases of deepening design, trying to study Henan’s regional tourism culture and creative products that have practical value, artistic value and cultural connotation value from various angles of design methods. I hope this article can be used as a reference for the innovative design of cultural and creative products.
Research on Material Selection of Product Design under Environmental Awareness
Authors: Tian Haokun , Zhang Haifeng , Liu Tingyu
Published: August 2019

Human demand for artificial objects is multifaceted and constantly changing. Therefore, product design system is becoming more and more complex, and there are various conflicts and constraints between design elements. From the requirement of product design with environmental awareness, this paper expounds the adverse effects of design materials on the environment. On the basis of analyzing the influencing factors of material selection in product design, the influencing factors model of material selection is constructed, and the environmental principles of material selection in product design are put forward to guide designers to realize the sustainable development of design. Based on analyzing the influencing factors of material selection in product design, this paper constructs a model of influencing factors in material selection, puts forward the environmental principles of material selection in product design, and guides designers to realize the sustainable development of design.
A new method of product-service system design: product-based, participatory service design method
Authors: Sun Jing , Chu Junjie
Published: August 2019

With the change of business model, market competition has gradually changed from product competition to service competition, and service design has been paid more and more attention by various industries. The ultimate goal of service design is tantamount to bring users a better experience and maximize the interests of stakeholders. Therefore, this paper will create a service design method based on service dominant logic and more emphasis on user experience. This paper sorts and summarizes the concept, content and characteristics of service design and product service system, and then find out the future development direction of service design and product service system. In this paper, various design methods are analyzed and compared, and one of the best design methods is associated with the product service system to form a new design method. After that, this new design method will be applied to the service design of children’s design thinking education as a practice.
RF compressibility of topological surface and interface states in metal–hBN–Bi2Se3 capacitors
Authors: Inhofer A , Wilde T , Duffy J , Boukhicha M , Palomo J , Watanabe K , Taniguchi T , Berroir J M , Fève G , Bocquillon E , Plaçais B , Assaf B A
Published: August 2019

The topological state that emerges at the surface of a topological insulator (TI) and at the TI-substrate interface are studied in metal–hBN–Bi2Se3 capacitors. By measuring the RF admittance of the capacitors versus gate voltage, we extract the compressibility of the Dirac state located at a gated TI surface. We show that even in the presence of an ungated surface that hosts a trivial electron accumulation layer, the other gated surface always exhibits an ambipolar effect in the quantum capacitance. We succeed in determining the velocity of surface Dirac fermions in two devices, one with a passivated surface and the other with a free surface that hosts trivial states. Our results demonstrate the potential of RF quantum capacitance techniques to probe surface states of systems in the presence of a parasitic density-of-states.
Nanopteron-stegoton traveling waves in spring dimer Fermi-Pasta-Ulam-Tsingou lattices
Authors: Faver Timothy
Published: August 2019

We study the existence of traveling waves in a spring dimer Fermi-Pasta-Ulam-Tsingou (FPUT) lattice. This is a one-dimensional lattice of identical particles connected by alternating nonlinear springs. As in the work of Faver and Wright on the mass dimer, or diatomic, lattice, we find that the lattice equations in the long wave scaling are singularly perturbed, and we apply a method of Beale to produce nanopteron traveling waves with wave speed slightly greater than the lattice’s speed of sound. The nanopteron wave profiles are the superposition of an exponentially decaying term (which itself is a small perturbation of a KdV

sech
2

\operatorname {sech}^2

-type soliton) and a periodic term of very small amplitude. Further generalizing the spring forces from the mass dimer case, we allow the springs’ nonlinearity to contain higher order terms beyond the quadratic. This necessitates the use of composition operators to phrase the long wave problem, and these operators require delicate estimates due to the characteristic superposition of different function types from Beale’s ansatz. Unlike the diatomic case, the value of the leading order term in the traveling wave profiles alternates between particle sites, so that the spring dimer traveling waves are also “stegotons”, in the terminology of LeVeque and Yong. This behavior is absent in the mass dimer and confirms the approximation results of Gaison, Moskow, Wright, and Zhang for the spring dimer.
Latent Alcohol Use Typologies and Health Status Among a Cohort of Adults Living with HIV
Authors: Madkour Aubrey Spriggs , Felker-Kantor Erica , Wallace Maeve , Ferguson Tekeda , Welsh David A , Molina Patricia E , Theall Katherine P
Published: August 2019

Aims

To characterize latent typologies of alcohol use among persons living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) (PLWH) and test their relationship with physical and mental health status.

Methods

Baseline data from 365 adult in-care PLWH enrolled in the New Orleans Alcohol Use in HIV study were analyzed. Indicators of current and former heavy drinking, intoxication, withdrawal and dependence symptoms, alcohol-related problems and past contact with alcohol use treatment were drawn from validated scales. Physical and mental health measures included SF-36 subscales, medication non-adherence and anxiety, depressive and post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms. Latent class analysis was conducted to characterize alcohol drinking typologies. Logistic and ordinary least-squares regression were employed to test associations between alcohol use and health status.

Results

Four latent classes were identified: heavy drinkers (36%), former heavy drinkers (14%), heavy drinkers with problems (12%) and low-risk drinkers/abstainers (38%). Controlling for background characteristics, low-risk drinkers/abstainers showed significantly better health compared to heavy drinkers with problems across most domains. Although current and former heavy drinkers without alcohol-related problems were similar to heavy drinkers with problems in most health domains, they presented worse mental health and energy compared to low-risk drinkers/abstainers.

Conclusions

Heavy drinkers with alcohol-related problems evidenced the worst health status among PLWH, and should be considered for mental and physical health interventions. However, interventions to improve physical and mental health of PLWH should consider history of heavy alcohol use, as current alcohol use status alone may be insufficient for identifying groups at increased risk.
Male spacing and female choice in a fiddler crab
Authors: Perez Daniela M , Backwell Patricia R Y
Published: August 2019

The aggregation of courting males is widespread among animal taxa, yet we do not understand why males congregate and therefore intensify local competition for female attention. The most commonly invoked theoretical explanation is that females preferentially approach clustered males due to the many benefits they would gain, and clustered males would therefore have higher mating success. However, although theoretical explanations of aggregation formation are well advanced, empirical studies are scarce, especially in invertebrates. In fact, there is little evidence that females do prefer to approach clustered displayers over spaced displayers. Here we address this question by using robotic crabs to test female preferences in fiddler crabs (a visually displaying species) and show that females do not preferentially approach clustered males. We suggest that if this pattern is more widespread, the most commonly invoked explanation of courting aggregations is of limited use. We offer explanations for the strong clustering behavior we observe in this species and discuss the implications of this finding for the theoretical underpinnings of this research field.
The temporal effect of intra-articular ozone injections on pain in knee osteoarthritis
Authors: Oliviero Antonio , Giordano Lorenzo , Maffulli Nicola
Published: August 2019

Background

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a most common orthopaedic condition, often complicated by inflammatory features.

Sources of data

A systematic search in PubMed, Embase, Google Scholar and Scopus databases (to January 2019) was performed to define the effect obtained in patients with OA of the knee by injections of ozone, on pain and physical function. Six RCTs and 353 patients were included.

Areas of agreement

Recently, an increasing number of physicians have used ozone therapy to alleviate the symptoms of acute and chronic OA of the knee. Ozone can allow greater mobility of the knee joint, pain relief and decrease in effusion.

Areas of controversy

The volume and concentration of ozone injected are different in the various treatment protocols published.

Growing points

The action of ozone is unclear, but it is a promising therapeutic modality capable of impacting, favourably, function and quality of life.

Areas timely for developing research

The lack of a clear protocol of use is a major limitation, and to date there is no clear evidence of long-term efficacy.
Posaconazole Serum Drug Levels Associated With Pseudohyperaldosteronism
Authors: Nguyen Minh-Vu H , Davis Matthew R , Wittenberg Rebecca , Mchardy Ian , Baddley John W , Young Brian Y , Odermatt Alex , Thompson George R
Published: August 2019

Background

Posaconazole tablets are well tolerated and efficacious in the prophylaxis and treatment of aspergillosis, mucormycosis, and other invasive fungal infections. There have been case reports of posaconazole-induced pseudohyperaldosteronism (PIPH); however, its occurrence and association with serum posaconazole drug levels have not previously been investigated.

Methods

In this single-center, retrospective, observational study, we examined the occurrence of PIPH in outpatients newly starting posaconazole and evaluated differences in serum posaconazole concentrations and clinical characteristics between those with and without this syndrome.

Results

Sixty-nine patients receiving posaconazole were included, of whom 16 (23.2%) met the definition of PIPH. Patients with PIPH were significantly older (61.1 vs 44.7 years, P = .007) and more frequently had hypertension prior to starting posaconazole (68.8% vs 32.1%, P = .009). Patients with PIPH had a significantly higher median serum posaconazole level than those without PIPH (3.0 vs 1.2 µg/mL, P ≤ .0001). There was a positive correlation between serum posaconazole levels and changes in systolic blood pressure (r = .37, P = .01), a negative correlation between serum posaconazole levels and changes in serum potassium (r = –.39, P = .006), and a positive correlation between serum posaconazole levels and serum 11-deoxycortisol (r = .69, P < .0001).

Conclusions

Posaconazole is associated with secondary hypertension and hypokalemia, consistent with pseudohyperaldosteronism, and development is associated with higher serum posaconazole concentrations, older age, and baseline hypertension.
Relative Assortativity Index: A Quantitative Metric to Assess the Impact of Link Prediction Techniques on Assortativity of Complex Networks
Authors: Meghanathan Natarajan
Published: August 2019

We propose a quantitative metric (called relative assortativity index, RAI) to assess the extent with which a real-world network would become relatively more assortative due to link addition(s) using a link prediction technique. Our methodology is as follows: for a link prediction technique applied on a particular real-world network, we keep track of the assortativity index values incurred during the sequence of link additions until there is negligible change in the assortativity index values for successive link additions. We count the number of network instances for which the assortativity index after a link addition is greater or lower than the assortativity index prior to the link addition and refer to these counts as relative assortativity count and relative dissortativity count, respectively. RAI is computed as (relative assortativity count − relative dissortativity count) / (relative assortativity count + relative dissortativity count). We analyzed a suite of 80 real-world networks across different domains using 3 representative neighborhood-based link prediction techniques (Preferential attachment, Adamic Adar and Jaccard coefficients [JACs]). We observe the RAI values for the JAC technique to be positive and larger for several real-world networks, while most of the biological networks exhibited positive RAI values for all the three techniques.
Anti-TNF Use Prior to Bowel Resection Is Not Associated With 30 Day Postoperative Complications: A National Database Study
Authors: Pirkle Sean , Bhattacharjee Sarah , Reddy Srikanth , Shi Lewis L , Lee Michael J , Dalal Sushila
Published: August 2019

Background

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) patients are often counseled to pause anti-tumor necrosis factor (TNF) therapy before surgery. Here, we assessed the effects of preoperative anti-TNF treatment on bowel resection complications.

Methods

A national database analysis was performed. IBD patients who underwent bowel resection were included. Patients using preoperative anti-TNF were stratified by treatment regimen. Complication rates were compared between these groups and a control group with no anti-TNF history.

Results

Twenty thousand and sixty-eight patients matched our criteria. We observed no significant differences between preoperative anti-TNF regimens and postoperative bowel resection complications.

Conclusions

These data suggest that anti-TNF therapy may safely be continued prior to bowel resection.
Anti-thrombotic strategies in elderly patients receiving platelet inhibitors
Authors: Schäfer Andreas , Flierl Ulrike , Bauersachs Johann
Published: August 2019

Acetyl-salicylic acid is the basic anti-thrombotic therapy used for single anti-platelet therapy in primary as well as secondary prevention of atherosclerotic disease. Dual anti-platelet therapy (DAPT) is the cornerstone of maintenance medication following elective percutaneous coronary intervention or acute coronary syndromes (ST elevation myocardial infarction, non-ST elevation myocardial infarction, unstable angina). DAPT duration has been frequently discussed. Currently, guideline recommendations strengthen the importance of individualized treatment to reduce bleeding risk based on clinical predictors, of which older age is an important one. Patients aged ≥75 years are often underrepresented in randomized clinical trials, but present a patient cohort deemed both at heightened ischaemic as well as bleeding risk. We aimed to summarize the evidence or the lack of evidence for anti-platelet treatment strategies in patients aged ≥75 years including combinations with anticoagulants in secondary prevention or coronary interventions in elderly patients with atrial fibrillation. This review article represents the author’s interpretation of available data and is not discussed by a formal task force; it is intended to point out missing evidence and to provide age-specific data for individualized decision making, which is currently encouraged by the guidelines.
Who Initiates the Help Older Parents Give to Midlife Children
Authors: Huo Meng , Napolitano Laura , Furstenberg Frank F , Fingerman Karen L
Published: August 2019

Objectives

Older parents continue to help children after these children have been adults for decades. We utilize a typology approach to assess who initiates the help. We ask whether profiles of help initiation are associated with how often older parents help and how they evaluate their helping behaviors.

Methods

Older parents (N = 241; Mage = 80.12) indicated the extent to which they volunteered to help children and helped per child’s request. Parents reported their resources and obligation to help, child problems, frequency, and evaluation (rewards/stresses) of helping.

Results

Latent profile analysis reveals four profiles representing parents who are initiators (n = 65), responders (n = 56), initiators/responders (n = 50), and uninvolved (n = 69). Resources, needs, and individual beliefs differentiate profiles. Parents offer the same amount of help regardless of who initiates such help. Parents who are initiators/responders view helping as more rewarding than parents who are initiators and more stressful than uninvolved parents.

Discussion

This study reveals variation in the initiation of older parents’ help and refines our understanding of family help in late life. Findings may suggest a parental expectation for children to be competent in adulthood regardless of their resources and willingness to help.
Desert low-frequency noise suppression by using adaptive DnCNNs based on the determination of high-order statistic
Authors: Dong X T , Li Y , Yang B J
Published: August 2019

The importance of low-frequency seismic data has been already recognized by geophysicists. However, there are still a number of obstacles that must be overcome for events recovery and noise suppression in low-frequency seismic data. The most difficult one is how to increase the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) at low frequencies. Desert seismic data are a kind of typical low-frequency seismic data. In desert seismic data, the energy of low-frequency noise (including surface wave and random noise) is strong, which largely reduces the SNR of desert seismic data. Moreover, the low-frequency noise is non-stationary and non-Gaussian. In addition, compared with seismic data in other regions, the spectrum overlaps between effective signals and noise is more serious in desert seismic data. These all bring enormous difficulties to the denoising of desert seismic data and subsequent exploration work including geological structure interpretation and forecast of reservoir fluid. In order to solve this technological issue, feed-forward denoising convolutional neural networks (DnCNNs) are introduced into desert seismic data denoising. The local perception and weight sharing of DnCNNs make it very suitable for signal processing. However, this network is initially used to suppress Gaussian white noise in noisy image. For the sake of making DnCNNs suitable for desert seismic data denoising, comprehensive corrections including network parameter optimization and adaptive noise set construction are made to DnCNNs. On the one hand, through the optimization of denoising parameters, the most suitable network parameters (convolution kernel、patch size and network depth) for desert seismic denoising are selected; on the other hand, based on the judgement of high-order statistic, the low-frequency noise of processed desert seismic data is used to construct the adaptive noise set, so as to achieve the adaptive and automatic noise reduction. Several synthetic and actual data examples with different levels of noise demonstrate the effectiveness and robustness of the adaptive DnCNNs in suppressing low-frequency noise and preserving effective signals.
Examining smoke-free coalitions in Armenia and Georgia: baseline community capacity
Authors: Berg Carla J , Dekanosidze Ana , Torosyan Arevik , Grigoryan Lilit , Sargsyan Zhanna , Hayrumyan Varduhi , Topuridze Marina , Sturua Lela , Harutyunyan Arusyak , Kvachantiradze Lela , Maglakelidze Nino , Gamkrelidze Amiran , Abovyan Romela , Bazarchyan Alexander , Kegler Michelle C
Published: August 2019

Local coalitions can advance public health initiative but have not been widely used or well-studied in low- and middle-income countries. This paper provides (i) an overview of an ongoing matched-pairs community-randomized controlled trial in 28 communities in Armenia and Georgia (N = 14/country) testing local coalitions to promote smoke-free policies/enforcement and (ii) characteristics of the communities involved. In July–August 2018, key informants (e.g. local public health center directors) were surveyed to compare their non-communicable disease (NCD) and tobacco-related activities across countries and across condition (intervention/control). More than half of the informants (50.0–57.1%) reported their communities had programs addressing hypertension, diabetes, cancer and human papilloma virus, with 85.7% involving community education and 32.1% patient education programs. Eleven communities (39.3%) addressed tobacco control, all of which were in Georgia. Of those, all included public/community education and the majority (72.7–81.8%) provided cessation counseling/classes, school/youth prevention programs, healthcare provider training or activities addressing smoke-free environments. Informants in Georgia versus Armenia perceived greater support for tobacco control from various sectors (e.g. government, community). No differences were found by condition assignment. This paper provides a foundation for presenting subsequent analyses of this ongoing trial. These analyses indicate wide variability regarding NCD-related activities and support across communities and countries.
Feedback linearization and backstepping: an equivalence in control design of strict-feedback form
Authors: Tran Thanh T
Published: August 2019

This paper investigates an equivalence between feedback linearization and backstepping control. Implications from equivalence are that stability and performance properties of one method are the same for another method. Thus, a property known to exist only for one method could be used to prove property also holds for another. Also, a suspected advantage of one method over the other could be proven to be a false conjecture. Control laws in both approaches are achieved by coordinate transformations and non-linear feedbacks. Further, resulting non-linear feedback control law achieved by feedback linearization method matches exactly with non-linear controller achieved by the backstepping control design. This equivalence is a general analytical match within the specific class of non-linear dynamic systems under investigation. Demonstrations are considered and validated via flight control of longitudinal dynamics of a high performance aircraft simulation model. Algorithms are tested and evaluated with analytical models and non-linear closed-loop simulation.