bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Partialing alters interpersonal correlates of negative affective symptoms and traits: A circumplex illustration
Authors: Carlson Steven E. , Smith Timothy W. , Williams Paula G. , Parkhurst Kimberly A. , Tinajero Ruben , Goans Christian , Hirai Michiyo , Ruiz John M.
Published: August 2022

Introduction

Negative affective symptoms (e.g., anxiety, depression, and anger) are correlated and have parallel associations with outcomes, as do related personality traits (i.e., facets of neuroticism), often prompting statistical control (i.e., partialing) to determine independent effects. However, such adjustments among predictor variables can alter their construct validity. In three studies, the interpersonal circumplex (IPC) and a related analytic approach (i.e., Structural Summary Method) were used to evaluate changes in interpersonal correlates of negative affective characteristics resulting from partialing.

Methods

Samples of undergraduates (Sample 1 n = 3283; Sample 2 = 688) and married couples (n = 300 couples) completed self‐report (three samples) and partner rating (sample 3) measures of anxiety, depression and anger, and IPC measures of interpersonal style.

Results

Anxiety, depression, and anger had expected interpersonal correlates across samples. Partialing depression eliminated interpersonal correlates of anxiety. When anxiety was controlled, depression measures were more strongly associated with submissiveness and less closely associated with low warmth. Adjustments involving anger magnified differences in dominance versus submissiveness associated with the negative affects.

Discussion

Removal of overlap among negative affective measures via partialing alters their interpersonal correlates, potentially complicating interpretation of adjusted associations.
The structural analysis of Kunya‐Urgench chondrite: The nondestructive neutron studies
Authors: Kichanov Sergey E. , Abdurakhimov Bekhzodjon A. , Zel Ivan Yu , Kirillov Andrei K. , Kozlenko Denis P. , Lapina Irina K. , Mentsin Yulii L.
Published: August 2022

We present the results of neutron methods, specifically neutron diffraction and neutron tomography, in studying the structural organization of a Kunya‐Urgench chondrite fragment. The major phases of the meteorite fragment and variation of the phase content across the studied volume were revealed using neutron diffraction. The 3‐D model of the spatial distribution of metal and silicate phases inside the meteorite volume was obtained using neutron tomography. The distributions of volumes, average sizes, and shape‐related parameters of kamacite and silicate phases were analyzed. Shape preferred orientations of the kamacite particles were observed and the origins of shape fabric of these particles were discussed.
Holiness, in Particular: A Proposal for Understanding Qedushah
Authors: Fleischacker Samuel
Published: August 2022

Beginning from an intriguing essay by the mid‐twentieth century Jewish thinker Leon Roth, I offer here an account of what “holiness” might mean for Jews by moving between readings of specifically Jewish texts and a series of general desiderata for any account of holiness. My proposal involves attending closely to but also moving away from the particulars of God’s world. Holiness consists in this process, not in any of the particulars themselves. I suggest that the point of Jewish law is to engage us in such a process.
Reticulons 3 and 6 interact with viral movement proteins
Authors: Tilsner Jens , Kriechbaumer Verena
Published: August 2022

Plant reticulon (RTN) proteins are capable of constricting membranes and are vital for creating and maintaining tubules in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), making them prime candidates for the formation of the desmotubule in plasmodesmata (PD). RTN3 and RTN6 have previously been detected in an Arabidopsis PD proteome and have been shown to be present in primary PD at cytokinesis. It has been suggested that RTN proteins form protein complexes with proteins in the PD plasma membrane and desmotubule to stabilize the desmotubule constriction and regulate PD aperture. Viral movement proteins (vMPs) enable the transport of viruses through PD and can be ER‐integral membrane proteins or interact with the ER. Some vMPs can themselves constrict ER membranes or localize to RTN‐containing tubules; RTN proteins and vMPs could be functionally linked or potentially interact. Here we show that different vMPs are capable of interacting with RTN3 and RTN6 in a membrane yeast two‐hybrid assay, coimmunoprecipitation, and Förster resonance energy transfer measured by donor excited‐state fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy. Furthermore, coexpression of the vMP CMV‐3a and RTN3 results in either the vMP or the RTN changing subcellular localization and reduces the ability of CMV‐3a to open PD, further indicating interactions between the two proteins.
The effects of loperamide on excitatory and inhibitory neuromuscular function in the human colon
Authors: Heitmann Paul T. , Keightley Lauren , Wiklendt Lukasz , Wattchow David A. , Brookes Simon S.J. , Spencer Nicholas J. , Costa Marcello , Dinning Phil G.
Published: August 2022

Background

In most animal species, opioids alter colonic motility via the inhibition of excitatory enteric motor neurons. The mechanisms by which opioids alter human colonic motility are unclear. The aim of this study was to describe the effects of loperamide on neuromuscular function in the human colon.

Methods

Tissue specimens of human colon from 10 patients undergoing an anterior resection were divided into three inter‐taenial circular muscle strips. Separate organ baths were used to assess: (1) excitatory transmission (selective blockade of inhibitory transmission: L‐NOARG/MRS2179); (2) inhibitory transmission (selective blockade of excitatory transmission: hyoscine hydrobromide); and (3) a control bath (no drug additions). Neuromuscular function was assessed using force transducer recordings and electrical field stimulation (EFS; 20 V, 10 Hz, 0.5 ms, 10 s) prior to and following loperamide and naloxone.

Key Results

In human preparations with L‐NOARG/MRS2179, loperamide had no significant effects on isometric contractions. In preparations with hyoscine hydrobromide, loperamide reduced isometric relaxation during EFS (median difference + 0.60 g post‐loperamide,Z = −2.35,p = 0.019).

Conclusions and Inferences

Loperamide had no effect on excitatory neuromuscular function in human colonic circular muscle. These findings suggest that loperamide alters colonic function by acting primarily on inhibitory motor neurons, premotor enteric neurons, or via alternative non‐opioid receptor pathways.
The structure of optimal solutions for harvesting a renewable resource
Authors: Upmann Thorsten , Gromov Dmitry
Published: August 2022

We consider the problem of optimal harvesting of a renewable resource whose dynamics are governed by logistic growth and whose payoff is proportional to the harvest. We consider both the case of a finite and an infinite time horizon and analyse the structure of the optimal solutions and their dependence on the parameters of the model. We show that the optimal policy can only have one of three structures: (1) maximal harvesting effort until the resource is depleted, (2) zero harvesting during an initial time interval followed by a subsequent switch to maximal harvesting effort, or (3) a singular solution, which corresponds to an intermediate level of harvesting, accompanied by the most rapid approach path. All three scenarios emerge, with minor variations, with finite and infinite time horizons, depending on the particular combination of parameters of the system. We characterize the conditions under which the singular solution is optimal and present suggestions for designing an optimal and sustainable harvesting strategy.

Recommendations for Resource Managers:

We have rigorously explored a standard optimal harvesting model and its steady states.

We show that three different types of solutions may emerge: (i) maximal harvesting eventually leading to a complete depletion of the stock; (ii) maximal harvesting with a potential period of idleness leading to a positive stock; (iii) an initial phase of either no or full harvesting followed by a period of intermediate harvesting intensity leading to a positive stock (singular solution).

With some modifications, similar results hold for a finite planning horizon.

Which of these three scenarios emerges in the finite horizon case depends not only on the parameter values but also on the length of the planning horizon.
Cheilitis: A cross‐sectional study—multiple factors involved in the aetiology and clinical features
Authors: Blagec Tadeja , Glavina Ana , Špiljak Bruno , Bešlić Iva , Bulat Vedrana , Lugović‐Mihić Liborija
Published: August 2022

Objective

Since the aetiologies of cheilitis are broad and overlapping, the purpose of this cross‐sectional clinical study was to examine the multiple factors involved in aetiology and the disease’s clinical features.

Subjects and Methods

We analysed cheilitis prevalence, demography, clinical features, patients’ habits, psychological stress, systemic diseases, vitamin B9, B12 and iron serum levels and allergy test results in a total of 130 subjects with cheilitis, plus 22 healthy subjects.

Results

The most common cheilitis types were: cheilitis simplex and eczematous cheilitis (28.5%); herpetic cheilitis (16.9%); and exfoliative and angular cheilitis (7.7%). Concerning bad habits, there was a significant association/connection between self‐reported saliva at the corners of the mouth and angular cheilitis, and between lip licking/biting and exfoliative cheilitis. Common associated conditions were skin diseases (56.5%) and atopy (84%). Vitamin B9 and B12 serum and iron values were mostly within the normal reference range. The patients suffering from herpetic cheilitis had significantly higher psychological/mental stress levels than the control group.

Conclusion

To our knowledge, this is the first study of cheilitis patients that has simultaneously analysed aetiological factors, characteristics of the disease and diagnostic parameters.
An analysis of glaucoma repeat measures assessment results: Are core competencies enough?
Authors: Karas Marek , Bartlett Sophie , Whitaker Angela , Sheen Nik , North Rachel , Ryan Barbara
Published: August 2022

Purpose

The need to validate core competency skills in qualified optometrists wishing to take part in extended roles in glaucoma care has been questioned. This analysis examines the ability of qualified optometrists to perform relevant core competency skills under standardised objective assessment conditions to explore whether such validation is justified. It also investigates if there are associations between performance, gender and length of time since qualification.

Methods

Anonymised data from the Cardiff University assessment programme for the Wales Optometry Postgraduate Education Centre (WOPEC) Local Optical Committee Support Unit glaucoma referral filtering and monitoring pathway delivered between January 2017 and March 2020 were analysed. Results were combined with demographic data from the General Optical Council register of optometrists in the UK to investigate associations between performance and practitioner characteristics, namely length of time since qualification and gender.

Results

The assessment results of 2215 optometrists practising in England (approximately 15% of all UK registered optometrists and 30% of all optometrists registered in England) were analysed. Failure rates for first time assessment in each of five objective structured clinical examination style practical assessments were 8.5% (van Herick); 8.8% (slit lamp binocular indirect ophthalmoscopy); 10.1% (Goldmann applanation tonometry calibration); 21.9% (Goldmann applanation tonometry) and 23.3% (case scenario interpretation and management). There were either no associations or at most very weak associations between performance and practitioner characteristics.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that these competencies are not universally present in optometrists practising in England and that ongoing training and assessment of these competencies is justified for entry into extended roles. There are no meaningful associations between performance in these assessments and gender or time since qualification.
A Novel Anatomical Locking Guide Plate for Treating Acetabular Transverse Posterior Wall Fracture: A Finite Element Analysis Study
Authors: Li Ming , Deng Junhao , Li Jiantao , Li Zhirui , Zhang Hao , Zhao Yanpeng , Zhang Licheng , Tang Peifu
Published: August 2022

Objective

To improve the treatment of the acetabular transverse posterior wall fracture (ATPWF), a novel anatomical locking guidance plate (NALGP) was designed and compared with traditional fixations using finite element analysis.

Methods

The ATPWF model was constructed using the three‐dimensional finite element model of the half pelvis via the Mimics software and three internal devices were used to fix this model: the posterior‐column locking plate with anterior‐column screws (PCLP), double‐column locking plates (DCLP), and NALGP. Next, mesh division was conducted by solid 187 tetrahedral elements in the workbench software. After defining the boundary condition and material properties, each assembly model was loaded in an increasing manner with a downward vertical force of 200, 400, and 600 N, respectively. The loading force was directed at 45 degrees upward in the coronal plane and 25 degrees backward in the sagittal plane. Finally, the stress distribution and stress peak of plates and screws were measured and evaluated, and the displacement of fracture fragments under different loading force was assessed among the three groups.

Results

For stress distribution, it was found that the stress mainly acted on the posterior‐column plate, especially concentrated at the middle and lower section of the plate in all three groups after fixation on the ATPWF. In addition, most stresses of screws appeared on the lag screws instead of the common screws. The common screws in the NALGP group experienced larger stresses under all loading force, while those in the DCLP group withstood less stresses compared to those in the PCLP group. For the displacement of fracture fragments, the NALGP group were found to have less fracture fragment displacements than the PCLP group, but had comparable results to DCLP at both the transverse fracture and the posterior wall fracture sites.

Conclusion

The newly‐designed fixation device showed superiorities on fracture stabilization over PCLP, but had comparable stability to DCLP. This suggests that the DCLP might be unnecessary for treating ATPWF in some instances because it might cause bigger surgical trauma and blood loss.
Should a firm bring a supplier into the boardroom?
Authors: Ambulkar Saurabh , Arunachalam S. , Bommaraju Raghu , Ramaswami Sridhar
Published: August 2022

Endowed with significant firm‐specific knowledge, inside directors can contribute to the decision‐making processes of the boardroom. However, regulatory changes, focusing primarily on the monitoring function of the boards, have driven inside directors out of the boardroom. This article argues that suppliers with firm‐ and industry‐specific knowledge are uniquely positioned to fill a critical void in boardrooms. It also suggests that the value of having a supplier on the board (SOTB) is influenced by environmental contingencies faced by a firm: operational efficiency, diversification, and demand uncertainty. Using an objective measure of supplier presence in the boardroom, the authors find that a supplier's presence enhances firm performance. They also find that the value of an SOTB in enhancing performance is greater in firms with lower operational efficiency and higher demand uncertainty and, is lower in firms with higher diversification. These results are robust to potential endogeneity issues, alternative estimation methods, and measures of moderator and outcome variables.
Bureaucratic discretion, social equity, and the administrative legitimacy dilemma: Complications of New Public Service
Authors: Rivera Jason D. , Knox Claire Connolly
Published: August 2022

Bureaucratic discretion continues to be one of a public administrator's primary powers while at the same time being one of their most controversial. Used in a positive way, bureaucratic discretion can enhance social equity; however, this practice can create administrative legitimacy dilemmas. As such, this paper conceptually discusses the theoretical position of public administrators that contributes to their engagement in legitimacy dilemmas, which is further complicated by the tenets of New Public Service. We argue that if public administrators are engaged in authentic interactions with the public and use their discretion to reflect the interests of the public, then they are engaged in truly democratic governance. We place this argument in the context of achieving social equity and highlight an avoided question in public administration. Finally, recommendations for future research are offered as a means progressing the social equity agenda in public administration.
Personal attributes and (mis)perceptions of local environmental risk
Authors: Li Zhengyan , Konisky David M.
Published: August 2022

Individuals' risk perceptions shape their attitudes and behaviors, and to the extent that governments respond to public demands, they also influence public policy priorities. Conversely, risk misperceptions—that is, when risk perceptions do not align with realities—may lead to suboptimal behaviors and inefficient public policy. This study investigates the phenomena of environmental risk misperceptions. Specifically, with an original survey that enables a direct comparison of perceived and actual environmental risks at the local level, it examines the relationships between personal attributes and risk misperceptions. The findings show that individuals exhibit optimism bias in assessing local environmental risk. On average, people rank their communities as experiencing less risk from toxic air pollution than objective measures suggest. Moreover, Whites, males, conservatives, and older people tend to have larger optimism bias and have lower chances of possessing correct risk perceptions than their counterparts, respectively, while respondents who are married, poor, who go to church regularly, and have strong pro‐environmental orientation, tend to have smaller optimism bias and have higher chances of possessing correct risk perceptions than their respective counterparts. The systematic misperception of local environmental risk underscores the importance of information provision and risk communication, and the sociopolitical correlates of misperception suggest that targeted and more nuanced strategies are required to correct misperceptions.
Extended genomic sequence of the HLA‐DRB1*15:68 and HLA‐DRB1*16:10:01 alleles in solid organ donors
Authors: Chaudhary Akshay , Gajjar Hiren , Parekh Khushagra , Makwana Mayur , Kumar Prabin
Published: August 2022

The full‐length sequence of HLA‐DRB1*15:68 and HLA‐DRB1*16:10:01 identified in solid organ donors.
Mobilisation of HLA‐F on the surface of bronchial epithelial cells and platelets in asthmatic patients
Authors: Fiouane Sabrina , Chebbo Mohamad , Beley Sophie , Paganini Julien , Picard Christophe , D'Journo Xavier‐Benoît , Thomas Pascal‐Alexandre , Chiaroni Jacques , Chanez Pascal , Gras Delphine , Di Cristofaro Julie
Published: August 2022

Uncontrolled inflammation of the airways in chronic obstructive lung diseases leads to exacerbation, accelerated lung dysfunction and respiratory insufficiency. Among these diseases, asthma affects 358 million people worldwide. Human bronchial epithelium cells (HBEC) express both anti‐inflammatory and activating molecules, and their deregulated expression contribute to immune cell recruitment and activation, especially platelets (PLT) particularly involved in lung tissue inflammation in asthma context. Previous results supported that HLA‐G dysregulation in lung tissue is associated with immune cell activation. We investigated here HLA‐F expression, reported to be mobilised on immune cell surface upon activation and displaying its highest affinity for the KIR3DS1‐activating NK receptor. We explored HLA‐F transcriptional expression in HBEC; HLA‐F total expression in PBMC and HBEC collected from healthy individuals at rest and upon chemical activation and HLA‐F membrane expression in PBMC, HBEC and PLT collected from healthy individuals at rest and upon chemical activation. We compared HLA‐F transcriptional expression in HBEC from healthy individuals and asthmatic patients and its surface expression in HBEC and PLT from healthy individuals and asthmatic patients. Our results support that HLA‐F is expressed by HBEC and PLT under healthy physiological conditions and is retained in cytoplasm, barely expressed on the surface, as previously reported in immune cells. In both cell types, HLA‐F reaches the surface in the inflammatory asthma context whereas no effect is observed at the transcriptional level. Our study suggests that HLA‐F surface expression is a ubiquitous post‐transcriptional process in activated cells. It may be of therapeutic interest in controlling lung inflammation.
Boosting ethics review capacity in public health emergency situations: Co‐creation of a training model for French‐speaking research ethics committees
Authors: Maketa Vivi , Luzolo Flory , Muhindo Mavoko Hypolite , Claeys Yves , Munday Felicien , Yemesi Benge Robert , Bongo Pasi Willy , Mankindu Darius , Mampunza Samuel , Lukanu Philippe , Kasongo Muteho , Ntabe Namegabe Edmond , Kambale Karafuli Leopold , Phanzu Mavinga Delphin , Milandu Massamba Emmanuel , Muaka Khoso César‐Augustin , Ravinetto Raffaella
Published: August 2022

Background

Ethics review preparedness is a major foundation for national effective response to public health emergencies, because it promotes pertinent research and enhances the protection of research participants and communities. In low‐income countries, it can also promote equitable research partnership. However, most relevant literature is in English and not easily accessible for the members of research ethics committees in French‐speaking African countries.

Methods

A training module in French, addressing the issue of research ethics review during outbreaks and other public health emergencies, was designed based on a non‐systematic literature review, and in order to be complementary to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) national guidelines for ethics review. The module was administered to 42 members of the five ethics committees in DRC that expressed their interest for the training.

Result

This training, co‐designed with local stakeholders, in the local working language and taking into account local circumstances and regulation, provided participants with up‐to‐date insights of research ethics (and research ethics preparedness) in public health emergencies. It resulted in rich reflection and knowledge‐sharing on good practices across the ethics committees.

Conclusion

As most participating ethics committees do not have yet explicit standard operating procedures for expedited review of protocols submitted in emergency situations, this would be a next important step to facilitate emergency reviews in the most efficient way.
Characterization of pathogen‐inactivated COVID‐19 convalescent plasma and responses in transfused patients
Authors: Weisser Maja , Khanna Nina , Hedstueck Anemone , Sutter Sarah Tschudin , Roesch Sandra , Stehle Gregor , Sava Mihaela , Deigendesch Nikolaus , Battegay Manuel , Infanti Laura , Holbro Andreas , Bassetti Stefano , Pargger Hans , Hirsch Hans H. , Leuzinger Karoline , Kaiser Laurent , Vu Diem‐Lan , Baur Katharina , Massaro Nadine , Busch Michael Paul , Simmons Graham , Stone Mars , Felgner Philip L. , de Assis Rafael R. , Khan Saahir , Tsai Cheng‐ting , Robinson Peter V. , Seftel David , Irsch Johannes , Bagri Anil , Buser Andreas S. , Corash Laurence
Published: August 2022

Background

Efficacy of donated COVID‐19 convalescent plasma (dCCP) is uncertain and may depend on antibody titers, neutralizing capacity, timing of administration, and patient characteristics.

Study Design and Methods

In a single‐center hypothesis‐generating prospective case–control study with 1:2 matched dCCP recipients to controls according to disease severity at day 1, hospitalized adults with COVID‐19 pneumonia received 2 × 200 ml pathogen‐reduced treated dCCP from 2 different donors. We evaluated severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) antibodies in COVID‐19 convalescent plasma donors and recipients using multiple antibody assays including a Coronavirus antigen microarray (COVAM), and binding and neutralizing antibody assays. Outcomes were dCCP characteristics, antibody responses, 28‐day mortality, and dCCP ‐related adverse events in recipients.

Results

Eleven of 13 dCCPs (85%) contained neutralizing antibodies (nAb). PRT did not affect dCCP antibody activity. Fifteen CCP recipients and 30 controls (median age 64 and 65 years, respectively) were enrolled. dCCP recipients received 2 dCCPs from 2 different donors after a median of one hospital day and 11 days after symptom onset. One dCCP recipient (6.7%) and 6 controls (20%) died (p = 0.233). We observed no dCCP‐related adverse events. Transfusion of unselected dCCP led to heterogeneous SARS CoV‐2 antibody responses. COVAM clustered dCCPs in 4 distinct groups and showed endogenous immune responses to SARS‐CoV‐2 antigens over 14–21 days post dCCP in all except 4 immunosuppressed recipients.

Discussion

PRT did not impact dCCP anti‐virus neutralizing activity. Transfusion of unselected dCCP did not impact survival and had no adverse effects. Variable dCCP antibodies and post‐transfusion antibody responses indicate the need for controlled trials using well‐characterized dCCP with informative assays.
PHYTOCHEMICAL SCREENING, ANTIMICROBIAL AND ANTIOXIDANT ACTIVITY FROM SONNERATIA CASEOLARIS LEAVES EXTRACT
Authors: Pagarra Halifah , A. Rahman Roshanida , - Hartati , - Rachmawaty , Hala Yusminah , Mohamed Esivan Siti Marsilawati
Published: August 2022

This work deals with the screening of phytochemical compounds, and the analysis of the antimicrobial and antioxidant activity of Sonneratia caseolaris leaves from Maros Regency, South Sulawesi Province, Indonesia. The phytochemical compounds were extracted separately using n-hexane, ethyl acetate, 70% and 96% ethanol. The antimicrobial activity was assessed by measuring the clear zone in the agar diffusion method. The phytochemical screening detected the presence of alkaloids, tannins, saponins, phenolics and flavonoids extracted by four different solvents, n-hexane, ethyl acetate, 70% ethanol and 96% ethanol. The ANOVA results showed that n-hexane and 70% ethanol extract had significant antimicrobial activity (P<0.05) against E. coli, S. aureus and C. albicans, while ethyl acetate extract had no significant (P>0.05) antimicrobial activity against these three microbes. The antioxidant activity was determined using the DPPH radical scavenging assay, and the total phenolic content was determined using the Folin-Ciocalteu method. The highest radical scavenging activity of 80.21% was found in 96% ethanol extract, and the lowest antioxidant activity of 16.71% was found in ethyl acetate extract. The total phenolic content is expressed as mg of gallic acid equivalent (GAE) per gram of the extract, with the highest phenolic content, 74.77 mg GAE/g, found in the 70% ethanol extract. Meanwhile, n-hexane extract had the lowest total phenolic content of 4.67 mg GAE/g. These findings showed that S. caseolaris leaves extracts have antimicrobial and antioxidant activities, thus suggesting their potential as natural antimicrobials or antioxidants in the medicinal and food processing industries.
DEVELOPMENT OF COST-EFFECTIVE ENERGY MANAGEMENT STRATEGY FOR STAND-ALONE HYBRID SYSTEM
Authors: Ab Ghani Mohd Zaini , Md Rasid Madihah , Anuar Mohd Shafiq
Published: August 2022

Deployment of Photovoltaic (PV) and Wind Turbine (WT) as a stand-alone system are the most affordable solution to the electrification problem in the rural areas.  However, the main challenge that hinder the sustainability of PV and WT is the output fluctuation. Thus, the battery and the non- Renewable Energy (RE) sources are required to make sure the continuous supply to the load is met. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to propose the rule-based Energy Management Strategy (EMS) for the stand-alone hybrid system in order to ensure the continuity of supply and the minimum utilization of non-RE can be achieved. The continuous monitoring is designed to avoid the degradation of battery performance while minimizing the non-RE cost.  The efficient Stage of Charge (SoC) limit of battery is investigated and applied in this study to store the excess RES power effectively. In this paper, the diesel fired Microturbine (MT) is selected as a non-RE source to integrate into the stand-alone hybrid system that consists of PV, WT and battery. The result shows that the proposed rule-based EMS for the in the stand-alone hybrid system is able to reduce the cost of MT operation to a minimum. Restricting the SoC limits effects the use of MT.
TUBULAR LINEAR SWITCHED RELUCTANCE ACTUATOR: DESIGN AND CHARACTERIZATION
Authors: Md Ghazaly Mariam , Chin Kiat Yeo , Shin Horng Chong , Hasim Norhaslinda , Abdullah Zulkeflee , Nordin Nurdiana
Published: August 2022

Linear electromagnetic actuator is receiving significant attention due to recent advances in power electronics and modern control methods. This research proposes a three-phase tubular linear switched reluctance actuator (LSRA) for application in the semiconductor fabrication industry. The tubular LSRA has a robust construction, low manufacturing and maintenance cost, good fault tolerance capability, and high reliability in a harsh environment, making it an attractive alternative to a permanent magnet linear actuator. However, the tubular LSRA has a long mover, which increases the possibility of the mover deforming during fabrication. So, a new mover design is proposed to overcome the problem. The proposed mover design allows the traveling distance of the actuator to be modified by adding or removing the rings without changing the shaft. The tubular LSRA prototype is fabricated according to the optimized design. To drive the tubular LSRA, a appropriate switching algorithm method are used to provide the correct switching signal. This method is straightforward, while no extensive knowledge of power electronic converter is required. The developed tubular LSRA can generate a maximum static force of 0.65N. Through the open-loop reciprocating motion, the dynamic responses of the tubular LSRA can achieve a maximum velocity of 210mm/s and maximum acceleration of 8m/s2, which are in the performance range for precision mechanism.
VEINS SYSTEM AND THEIR MINERALOGICAL AND MICROTHERMOMETRIC CHARACTERISTICS WITHIN THE HUMPA LEU EAST PORPHYRY COPPER-GOLD MINERALIZATION AT HU'U DISTRICT, SUMBAWA ISLAND, INDONESIA
Authors: Verdiansyah Okki , Idrus Arifudin , Setijadji Lucas Donny , Sutopo Bronto , Sukadana I Gde
Published: August 2022

The study area, i.e Humpa Leu East is a porphyry prospect located in Hu'u district, Sumbawa Island, Indonesia. This study is aimed to understand the characteristics of veins, the distribution of veins and mineralogy, microthermometric conditions of ore fluids, distribution of elements, and their implications for exploration and deposit model. The Hu'u district is a paleo-volcano member of the Miocene to Plio-pleistocene volcanic rocks. Hydrothermal alteration evolved to get out from the tonalitic body, consists of potassic, propyllitic and overprinted by phyllic and advanced argillic. The mineralization is dominated by chalcopyrite, associated with quartz±anhydrite veins, and hydrothermal breccia. Hydrothermal fluids temperature measured at the value of 109.9 °C - 525.3 °C and > 550 ° C with an averaging range of Th is 296.5 -329.7 °C, and salinity of 10.9 wt% NaCl eq. Quartz veins occur as a package or series of porphyry type veins designated as EDM-M1-A1, A2-A3-Apsb-anh, A3-A2, M2-Apsb-A2-A3, M1-B-C, C-D-anhydrite, and epithermal veins. Hydrothermal fluids possibly have mixed by high-temperature hyper-saline fluids to medium temperature low saline fluids. The Humpa Leu East can be identified as a 'push-up porphyry system' that still remains more extensive system underneath or in the side area. These results can be used for understanding the texture of veins as a vectoring to ore, metal distribution in veins and rocks. Early type veins such as type A have more intensive metal content and are followed by type B, C and weaken until the latest stage.
PERFECT CODES IN INDUCED SUBGRAPH OF UNIT GRAPH ASSOCIATED WITH SOME COMMUTATIVE RINGS
Authors: Mudaber Mohammad Hassan , Sarmin Nor Haniza , Gambo Ibrahim
Published: August 2022

The unit graph associated with a ring  is the graph whose vertices are elements of , and two different vertices  and are adjacent if and only if where is the set of unit elements of  The aim of this paper is to present the perfect codes in induced subgraph of unit graph associated with some commutative rings with unity in which its vertex set is We characterize some families of commutative rings with induced subgraphs of unit graphs accepting the non-trivial perfect codes, and some other families of commutative rings with induced subgraphs of unit graphs which do not accept perfect codes.
EVALUATING THE EFFECT OF PYROLIGNEOUS EXTRACT AS NATURAL ANTIMICROBIAL AGENT UNDER DIFFERENT CONTACT TIMES
Authors: Teo Chee Loong
Published: August 2022

Pyroligneous extract is a by-product of the charcoal making process. Pyroligneous extract application becomes a potential natural active ingredient to contribute in biocosmetics, bioprocess, and biopharmaceutical industry. In this study, five human harmful microorganisms which related urinary tract infection were selected: Candida albicans 10231, Escherichia coli 8739, Enterococcus faecalis 19433, Proteus vulgaris 33420 and Klebsiella pneumoniae 13883. Time-kill kinetics assay method was used to study natural pyroligneous acid as an antimicrobial agent to determine bacteriostatic and bactericidal activity of the minimum duration of killing (MDK) with a variety of contact time (0 – 240 minutes). From the result is showed that pyroligneous extract reached 100% of reduction effects with different MDK: E.coli (8739) at 2 minutes, P.vulgaris (33420) at 4 minutes, K.pneumoniae (13883)  at 2 minutes, C.albicans (10231) at 2 minutes and E. faecalis (19433) at 240 minutes. For bioprocess kinetics analysis, the highest specific reduction rate and halve rate according to contact time: E.coli at 2 minutes (3.5450, 5.1144), P.vulgaris at 2 minutes (3.7192, 5.3657), K.pneumoniae  at 2 minutes (3.5015, 5.0516), C.albicans at 2 minutes (3.4947. 5.0417) and E.faecalis at 4 minutes (3.8005, 5.4829). The results of this research provide convincing evidence to pyroligneous extract as an antimicrobial agent.
MAXIMIZING VOLUME OF SPENT BLEACHING EARTH ASH (SBEA) POZZOLAN USED AS CEMENT REPLACEMENT IN MORTAR THROUGH MECHANICAL ACTIVATION
Authors: Lim Andrew , Mirasa Abdul Karim , Asrah Hidayati , Tian Xiaoping
Published: August 2022

Spent bleaching earth ash (SBEA) is harmful waste from the oil refining industry that has previously exhibited pozzolanic properties and potential for use as cement replacement. Conventional pozzolanic replacements in cements are typically limited to 30 % only as excessive amounts have detrimental on cement strength. This research aimed to investigate the feasibility of increasing the level of replacement past 30 % through mechanical activation. Preliminary investigations revealed that SBEA contains sufficient silica and alumina oxides to be classified as Class N pozzolan in accordance with ASTM C618. As expected with pozzolans, the use of SBEA in cement mortar improved the 28 and 56-day compressive strengths up to 30 % substitution but at the same time also increased the water requirement. Mechanical activation was able to improve the level of substitution to 50 % through a mix of increasing pozzolanic reactivity of SBEA as well as increasing the specific surface area of its particles.
EXAMINATION OF ADULTERATED COCONUT OIL BY FIBER OPTICS DISPLACEMENT SENSOR USING LATERAL OFFSET APPROACH
Authors: Haroon Hazura , Nordin Siti Noraminah , Abdul Rahim Hazli Rafis , Anbalagan Thanigai , Othman Maisara
Published: August 2022

A single-mode fiber (SMF) sensor for detecting coconut oil adulteration is proposed. Coconut oil is commonly used in cooking but health problems are caused by its adulteration. The lateral offset approach to the SMF-SMF displacement sensor was employed in this experiment to analyze the sensing responses of adulterant concentrations in coconut oil. The offset distances of the sensing probe were set at 6.47 µm, 11.57 µm, and 14.64 µm. Pure coconut oil, paraffin oil, and palm oil have an initial refractive index of 1.4481, 1.4585, and 1.4634, respectively. Upon completion, the highest sensitivity was observed at a lateral offset distance of 14.64 µm. These values were 0.286 dBm/mol for palm oil detection and 0.045 dBm/mol for paraffin oil detection. The findings of these experiments also showed that the larger the offset distance, the greater the sensitivity of the fiber sensor.
SUCCESSFUL PRESERVATION OF BANANA EMBRYOGENIC CALLUS BY MINIMAL GROWTH AND CRYOPRESERVATION TECHNIQUE
Authors: Roostika Ika , Damayanti Fitri , Witjaksono Witjaksono
Published: August 2022

This paper reports successful preservation methods by minimal growth and cryopreservation of banana embryogenic callus. The minimal growth and cryopreservation techniques can be applied for medium-term and long-term storage. The embryogenic callus of banana cv Dwarf Parfitt was used as the plant material. Different kind of medium formulations, temperature, gelling agents, and ABA concentrations were tested in minimal growth study. The type of explants, dehydration periods, and pre culture media were tested in cryopreservation study. The result showed that the use of WIC medium was better than BM2G for maintaining embryogenic callus. The application of 0.005 mg L-1 ABA combined with reduced temperature (150C) could preserve the cultures longer than 4 months with high survival rate (95%), high recovery rate (90%), and high number of recovered embryos indicating high embryogenic potential. For cryopreservation study, the best dehydration period was 20 minutes. The combined treatments of 150 g/l sucrose and 2 M glycerol at preculture step was the most suitable treatment for successful cryopreservation with 80% survival rates; and the recovered cultures maintained their somatic embryogenic capacity.
SCRUTINIZING THE IMPACT OF ESSENTIAL LEAN METHODS ON SUSTAINABLE PERFORMANCE IN MALAYSIAN MANUFACTURING FIRMS
Authors: Zainal Abidin Muhammad Harith , Leman Zulkiflle , Mohd Yusof Zainal Abidin , Ismail Md Yusof
Published: August 2022

Despite the fact that Malaysian manufacturing firms have implemented lean manufacturing principles to reduce resource waste and focus on customer demand, they still lack statistically validated lean manufacturing models to guide them in enhancing the sustainability of their businesses. This paper conducts empirical research of the multi-dimensionality of essential Lean Manufacturing (LM) methods (i.e., Total Productive Maintenance (TPM), Continuous Improvement (CI), and Just-In-Time (JIT)) and their association with sustainable performance (SP). 69 of 121 respondents’ usable surveys were collected from manufacturing sectors that are recognised by the Negeri Sembilan Investment Centre (NSIC). They are made up of small, medium, and large businesses. The structural relationship of constructs was validated using the Structural Equation Modelling (SEM). For direct linkages between LM Methods with Sustainable Performance, the JIT is the most significant determinant, and for the inter-relationship between LM Methods, the Continuous Improvement and TPM, both were significantly inter-connected, depend on one another. In terms of LM implementation, the developed model contributes to the well-being and comprehension of practitioners engaged in top management. Sustainable indicators for manufacturing organization decision makers to ensure that the LM implementation is compatible with the sustainability impact.
CORE BURN-UP ANALYSIS OF THE RSG-GAS RESEARCH REACTOR USING DETERMINISTIC AND STOCHASTIC METHODSS
Authors: Surbakti Tukiran , Pinem Surian , Luthfi Wahid , Hartanto Donny
Published: August 2022

Due to several characteristics, such as geometry, compact core, high coolant flow, and high neutron flux, the burn-up study of the RSG-GAS multi-purpose reactor provides challenges when employing a neutronic calculation. For the burn-up analysis, two calculating methodologies are used in the RSG-GAS: deterministic and probabilistic methods. The deterministic codes such as WIMSD-5B and Batan-FUEL are utilized, whereas the continuous-energy Monte Carlo code Serpent 2 is used for the stochastic method. WIMSD-5B is being used to produce a four-group cross-section that is needed by Batan-FUEL to do full core diffusion calculations. Burn-up calculations were performed at the whole fuel assemblies inside the core to see if the deterministic code, WIMSD-5B/Batan-FUEL, could accurately replicate the burn-up behavior of the RSG-GAS research reactor. The Serpent 2 calculation was also done with the exact models to provide a comparison. The results show that both Serpent 2 and WIMSD-5B/Batan-FUEL can perform the RSG-GAS burn-up analysis if appropriate treatments are made to the deterministic codes at both the assembly and core levels. There is a 5% difference in calculated fuel burn-up between deterministic and stochastic approaches.
FEASIBILTY OF KAOLIN AND MICA AS BLEACHING EARTHS FOR THE REMOVAL OF ORGANIC COMPOUNDS FROM CRUDE PALM OIL
Authors: Rosli Mohd Hakimi , Siyal Ahmer Ali , Shamsuddin Rashid M , Low Aaron
Published: August 2022

This paper describes the feasibility of use of locally available kaolin and mica for refining crude palm oil (CPO) and compares their performance with commercially available bleaching earth (Attapulgite) which is commonly used in the palm oil industry. The materials were characterized for chemical composition, surface area, pore size and pore volume, functional groups, and microstructure. The performance of refining was determined by measuring the removal of color, phosphorous, free fatty acids (FFA), and peroxide from palm oil. Attapulgite, kaolin and mica mainly contained silica, alumina and ferrous oxide and they were mesoporous materials with surface area of 89.932, 4.889, and 8.195 m2/g respectively. Functional group analysis showed decrease in the intensity of peaks due to adsorption of phosphorous which was in the order of attapulgite>mica>kaolin. Microstructural analysis showed heterogenous behavior of adsorbents with the presence of particles of different size. The refining of CPO results indicated that both kaolin and mica were able to adsorb impurities from the CPO. Attapulgite had the highest bleaching efficiency followed by mica and kaolin. Based on the obtained results, mica has the potential of refining of CPO and its performance could be further improved by activation using different agents.
MODELLING STOCK MARKET EXCHANGE BY AUTOREGRESSIVE INTEGRATED MOVING AVERAGE, MULTIPLE LINEAR REGRESSION AND NEURAL NETWORK
Authors: Firdaus Mohamad , Kamisan Nur Arina Bazilah , Aziz Nur Arina Bazilah , Weng Howe Chan
Published: August 2022

Stocks, sometimes known as equities, are fractional ownership shares in a firm, and the stock market is a venue where investors may purchase and sell these investible assets. Because it allows enterprises to quickly get funds from the public, a well-functioning stock market is critical to economic progress. The purpose of this study is to model Bursa Malaysia using autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA), multiple linear regression (MLR), and neural network (NN) model. To compare the modelling accuracy of these models for intraday trading, root mean square error (RMSE) and mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) as well as graphical plot will be used. From the results obtained from these three methods, the NN model provides the best trade signal.
SUBSTRATES AND METABOLIC PATHWAYS IN SYMBIOTIC CULTURE OF BACTERIA AND YEAST (SCOBY) FERMENTATION: A MINI REVIEW
Authors: Zailani Nurliyana Sofiya , Adnan Azila
Published: August 2022

Kombucha is a fermented beverage that is prepared traditionally by fermenting Symbiotic Culture of Bacteria and Yeast (SCOBY) with sugar and black/green tea, which is known as Camellia sinensis leaves. The previous study analyses the microbial composition that can be obtained in Kombucha production. Study shows that yeast species and acetic acid bacteria (AAB) species are the microorganisms that involve in the fermentation process of Kombucha. Some studies emphasize the chemical composition that was obtained from the production of Kombucha drinks such as organic acids, sugars, ethanol, and polyphenols. However, further review and elucidation regarding the substrates used and metabolic activity in Kombucha fermentation is necessary. Thus, the objective of this study is to review the metabolic pathway and substrates involve in Symbiotic Culture of Bacteria and Yeast (SCOBY) fermentation. This review also collected information related to the symbiosis of fermentation by yeast and AAB pathway in Kombucha fermentation. Several pharmaceutical effects of Kombucha were also discussed to prove the health benefits of Kombucha. To produce good quality and high yield of Kombucha that can provide various health benefits to consumers, it is crucial to understand the connection between the metabolic activity with Symbiotic Culture of Bacteria and Yeast (SCOBY) during the fermentation process of Kombucha. By conducting this review work, it could provide an insightful overview and better understanding of metabolic pathways and substrates involved in SCOBY and Kombucha fermentation.
An Efficient Modeling Method for the Simulation of Ball Bearing Dynamics
Authors: Chen Shi , He Ke , Cai Xiaojiang , Zhang Zhinan
Published: August 2022

Efficiency and accuracy play an important role in numerical simulation for ball bearings dynamics. In this work, three kinds of contact models are developed in vector form to represent the interactions in ball/raceway, ball/cage, and cage/raceway. Considering the fluctuation induced by friction and divergence by damping force in ball bearings, the dynamic computational methods based on the modifications in the formulation of friction and acceleration are proposed. Then the simplified ball bearing system is simulated by fixed and variable step integration methods. The comparison of results from both solutions and applied step size has indicated the validity and higher efficiency of the proposed methods. Furthermore, a full dynamics simulation of a 100 angular-contact ball bearing is conducted. Results show that the proposed models and methods have satisfactory stability and accuracy under a considerably long simulation time step.
Three new species of Nothopodinae (Acari, Eriophyidae) from China
Authors: Lv Ankang , Yang Juang , Tan Mengchao , Wang Guoquan
Published: August 2022

In this paper, three new species of Nothopodinae mites from China are described and illustrated. They are Disella miliusae sp. nov. collected on Miliusa sinensis Finet & Gagnep. (Annonaceae), Disella dendrocalama sp. nov. collected on Dendrocalamus yunnanicus Hsueh & D.Z.Li (Poaceae), and Colopodacus machili sp. nov. collected on Machilus nanmu (Oliv.) Hemsl. (Lauraceae). All the species are vagrants on lower leaf surface and causing no apparent damage to their host plants.