bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Survey on Adversarial Recommender Systems
Authors: Deldjoo Yashar , Noia Tommaso Di , Merra Felice Antonio
Published: March 2021

Latent-factor models (LFM) based on collaborative filtering (CF), such as matrix factorization (MF) and deep CF methods, are widely used in modern recommender systems (RS) due to their excellent performance and recommendation accuracy. However, success has been accompanied with a major new arising challenge:
Many applications of machine learning (ML) are adversarial in nature
[146]. In recent years, it has been shown that these methods are vulnerable to adversarial examples, i.e., subtle but non-random perturbations designed to force recommendation models to produce erroneous outputs.

The goal of this survey is two-fold: (i) to present recent advances on adversarial machine learning (AML) for the security of RS (i.e., attacking and defense recommendation models) and (ii) to show another successful application of AML in generative adversarial networks (GANs) for generative applications, thanks to their ability for learning (high-dimensional) data distributions. In this survey, we provide an exhaustive literature review of 76 articles published in major RS and ML journals and conferences. This review serves as a reference for the RS community working on the security of RS or on generative models using GANs to improve their quality.
Development and Application of Artificial Intelligence in Auxiliary TCM Diagnosis
Authors: Feng Chuwen , Shao Yuming , Wang Bing , Qu Yuanyuan , Wang Qingyong , Li Yang , Yang Tiansong
Published: March 2021

As an emerging comprehensive discipline, artificial intelligence (AI) has been widely applied in various fields, including traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), a treasure of the Chinese nation. Realizing the organic combination of AI and TCM can promote the inheritance and development of TCM. The paper summarizes the development and application of AI in auxiliary TCM diagnosis, analyzes the bottleneck of artificial intelligence in the field of auxiliary TCM diagnosis at present, and proposes a possible future direction of its development.
RNA-Sequencing Reveals Differentially Expressed Rice Genes Functionally Associated with Defense against BPH and WBPH in RILs Derived from a Cross between RP2068 and TN1
Authors: Divya Dhanasekar , Sahu Nihar , Reddy P. Sairam , Nair Suresh , Bentur J. S.
Published: March 2021

Background

Rice is staple food for over two billion people. Planthoppers like BPH and WBPH occur together in most of rice growing regions across Asia and cause extensive yield loss by feeding and transmission of disease-causing viruses. Chemical control of the pest is expensive and ecologically disastrous; breeding resistant varieties is an acceptable option. But most of such efforts are focused on BPH with an assumption that these varieties will also be effective against WBPH. No critical studies are available to understand rice resistance, common or otherwise, against these two planthoppers.

Results

Our studies aimed to understand the defense mechanisms in rice line RP2068 against BPH and WBPH through RNA sequencing analysis of a RIL line TR3RR derived from the cross TN1 (susceptible) and RP2068 (resistant) after infestation with BPH or WBPH. Results revealed higher number of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in BPH infested plants than in WBPH infested plants when compared with the uninfested plants. These DEGs could be grouped into UPUP, DNDN, UPDN and DNUP groups based on whether the DEGs were up (UP) or down (DN) regulated against BPH and WBPH, respectively. Gene ontology analysis, specially of members of the last two groups, revealed differences in plant response to the two planthoppers. Abundance of miRNAs and detection of their target genes also indicated that separate sets of genes were suppressed or induced against BPH and WBPH. These results were validated through the analysis of expression of 27 genes through semi-quantitative and quantitative real-time RT-PCR using a set of five RILs that were genetically identical but with different reaction against the two planthoppers. Coupled with data obtained through pathway analysis involving these 27 genes, expression studies revealed common and differential response of rice RP2068 against BPH and WBPH. Trehalose biosynthesis, proline transport, methylation were key pathways commonly upregulated; glucosinolate biosynthesis, response to oxidative stress, proteolysis, cytokinesis pathways were commonly down regulated; photosynthesis, regulation of transcription, expression and transport of peptides and defense related pathways were exclusively upregulated against WBPH; MYB transcription factor mediated defense induction was exclusive to BPH.

Conclusion

Rice defense against the two sympatric planthoppers: BPH and WBPH has distinct features in RP2068. Hence, a conscious combination of resistance to these two pests is essential for effective field management.
Evaluating the effectiveness of measures to control the novel coronavirus disease 2019 in Jilin Province, China
Authors: Zhao Qinglong , Wang Yao , Yang Meng , Li Meina , Zhao Zeyu , Lu Xinrong , Shen Bo , Luan Bo , Zhao Yifei , Cao Bonan , Yao Laishun , Zhao Benhua , Su Yanhua , Chen Tianmu
Published: March 2021

Background

Based on differences in populations and prevention and control measures, the spread of new coronary pneumonia in different countries and regions also differs. This study aimed to calculate the transmissibility of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), and to evaluate the effectiveness of measures to control the disease in Jilin Province, China.

Methods

The data of reported COVID-19 cases were collected, including imported and local cases from Jilin Province as of March 14, 2019. A Susceptible–Exposed–Infectious–Asymptomatic–Recovered/Removed (SEIAR) model was developed to fit the data, and the effective reproduction number (Reff) was calculated at different stages in the province. Finally, the effectiveness of the measures was assessed.

Results

A total of 97 COVID-19 infections were reported in Jilin Province, among which 45 were imported infections (including one asymptomatic infection) and 52 were local infections (including three asymptomatic infections). The model fit the reported data well (R2 = 0.593, P < 0.001). The Reff of COVID-19 before and after February 1, 2020 was 1.64 and 0.05, respectively. Without the intervention taken on February 1, 2020, the predicted cases would have reached a peak of 177,011 on October 22, 2020 (284 days from the first case). The projected number of cases until the end of the outbreak (on October 9, 2021) would have been 17,129,367, with a total attack rate of 63.66%. Based on the comparison between the predicted incidence of the model and the actual incidence, the comprehensive intervention measures implemented in Jilin Province on February 1 reduced the incidence of cases by 99.99%. Therefore, according to the current measures and implementation efforts, Jilin Province can achieve good control of the virus’s spread.

Conclusions

COVID-19 has a moderate transmissibility in Jilin Province, China. The interventions implemented in the province had proven effective; increasing social distancing and a rapid response by the prevention and control system will help control the spread of the disease.
Toxic stress, health and nutrition among Brazilian children in shelters
Authors: da Silveira Adriana César , Leite Álvaro Jorge Madeiro , Cabral Poliana Coelho , de Oliveira Ariclécio Cunha , de Oliveira Keciany Alves , de Lira Pedro Israel Cabral
Published: March 2021

Background

Living in a shelter is an adverse experience that generates toxic stress. This situation can cause the dysregulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and exert a negative impact on health.The aim of the present study was to determine the association between toxic stress and social, clinical and nutritional characteristics in children at welfare institutions in a city of northeastern of Brazil.

Methods

An analytical, cross-sectional study was conducted with male and female children up to 60 months of age who live in shelters. Hair cortisol was used for the assessment of stress (immunoassay). The anthropometric data collected were height for age, body mass index for age, arm circumference for age, and head circumference for age (expressed in z-scores). We also evaluated food intake using markers proposed by the Brazilian Dietary and Nutritional Vigilance Surveillance System as well as the occurrence of dental caries and anemia.

Results

Sixty-three children one to 60 months of age participated in the present study. Asthma was the most frequent disease (11.1%). The prevalence of short stature, anemia and dental caries in the sample was 22.2, 22.2 and 9.4%, respectively. Cortisol levels ranged from 0.93 pg/mg to 391.29 pg/mg (median: 6.17 pg/mg). Higher cortisol levels were found in children with illnesses (p = 0.012) and those who had been hospitalized after being admitted to the institutions (p = 0.001).

Conclusions

The majority of children had unhealthy eating behavior. The cortisol concentrations found in the present study were suggestive of dysregulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis. Hypercortisolism was associated with illness and hospitalization.
Salivary inflammatory biomarkers and glycated haemoglobin among patients with type 2 diabetic mellitus
Authors: Agho Ekhosuehi Theophilus , Owotade Foluso John , Kolawole Babatope Ayodeji , Oyetola Elijah Olufemi , Adedeji Tewogbade Adeoye
Published: March 2021

Background

Type 2 diabetes mellitus has reached epidemic proportions worldwide and improved detection techniques and biomarkers are urgently needed across the spectrum of diabetes initiation and progression. Inflammatory biomarkers play a role in the development of the condition and blood is the gold standard body fluid for the diagnosis of diabetes mellitus. Serum glycated haemoglobin is a widely used marker of chronic hyperglycemia, and it is currently used to diagnose type 2 diabetes mellitus and it is the standard biomarker for the adequacy of management. However, saliva offers an alternative to serum as a biological fluid for diagnostic purposes. Non-invasive measures of inflammatory biomarkers (such as saliva diagnostics) are increasingly being investigated due to significant similarities between salivary and serum proteome. The role of saliva diagnostics in diabetes mellitus has not been explored in our study population.

Objectives

This study investigated the association of selected salivary inflammatory biomarkers (Interleukin 6 [IL-6], C-reactive protein [CRP], and Tumour necrosis factor α [TNF-α]) to glycated haemoglobin (HbA1C) in type 2 diabetics.

Materials and methods

Seventy-five participants, 39 type 2 diabetics (52%) and 36 (48%) healthy controls were recruited. Saliva and blood samples were collected for each participant. The levels of selected salivary inflammatory biomarkers (IL-6, CRP and TNF-α) were estimated by Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) method and glycated haemogloin (HbA1C) was estimated using the liquid chromatography method. Periodontal status of the participants were determined using the Basic Periodontal Examination (BPE).

Results

The mean salivary levels of CRP was significantly higher in diabetics, 0.05 ± 0.04 µg/ml than in controls, 0.02 ± 0.02 µg/ml (p < 0.001). Mean TNF-α was also significantly higher in diabetics, 5.39 ± 12.10 pg/ml than in controls, 1.51 ± 3.66 pg/ml (p = 0.036). Mean salivary IL-6 was also higher in diabetics compared with controls (47.20 ± 18.49 versus 41.94 ± 16.88 pg/ml), but the difference was not statistically significant, p = 0.204. In the multivariate analysis adjusting for age and periodontal status, only the mean salivary CRP was significantly higher in diabetics, 0.034 higher than controls (95% CI 0.009, 0.059 and p = 0.01). There was a positive correlation between salivary CRP and HbA1C levels, which was moderate with r-value 0.4929 and p-value < 0.0001.

Conclusions

Salivary inflammatory biomarkers especially CRP are higher in diabetics compared with controls and CRP is positively correlated with serum HbA1C levels. The biomarkers show potentials as non-invasive alternative method to evaluate glycaemic control in diabetes.
Current updates in machine learning in the prediction of therapeutic outcome of hepatocellular carcinoma: what should we know?
Authors: Zou Zhi-Min , Chang De-Hua , Liu Hui , Xiao Yu-Dong
Published: March 2021

With the development of machine learning (ML) algorithms, a growing number of predictive models have been established for predicting the therapeutic outcome of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) after various treatment modalities. By using the different combinations of clinical and radiological variables, ML algorithms can simulate human learning to detect hidden patterns within the data and play a critical role in artificial intelligence techniques. Compared to traditional statistical methods, ML methods have greater predictive effects. ML algorithms are widely applied in nearly all steps of model establishment, such as imaging feature extraction, predictive factor classification, and model development. Therefore, this review presents the literature pertaining to ML algorithms and aims to summarize the strengths and limitations of ML, as well as its potential value in prognostic prediction, after various treatment modalities for HCC.
Prediction of activity and selectivity profiles of human Carbonic Anhydrase inhibitors using machine learning classification models
Authors: Tinivella Annachiara , Pinzi Luca , Rastelli Giulio
Published: March 2021

The development of selective inhibitors of the clinically relevant human Carbonic Anhydrase (hCA) isoforms IX and XII has become a major topic in drug research, due to their deregulation in several types of cancer. Indeed, the selective inhibition of these two isoforms, especially with respect to the homeostatic isoform II, holds great promise to develop anticancer drugs with limited side effects. Therefore, the development of in silico models able to predict the activity and selectivity against the desired isoform(s) is of central interest. In this work, we have developed a series of machine learning classification models, trained on high confidence data extracted from ChEMBL, able to predict the activity and selectivity profiles of ligands for human Carbonic Anhydrase isoforms II, IX and XII. The training datasets were built with a procedure that made use of flexible bioactivity thresholds to obtain well-balanced active and inactive classes. We used multiple algorithms and sampling sizes to finally select activity models able to classify active or inactive molecules with excellent performances. Remarkably, the results herein reported turned out to be better than those obtained by models built with the classic approach of selecting an a priori activity threshold. The sequential application of such validated models enables virtual screening to be performed in a fast and more reliable way to predict the activity and selectivity profiles against the investigated isoforms.
MicroRNA expression profile in bovine mammary gland parenchyma infected by coagulase-positive or coagulase-negative staphylococci
Authors: Bagnicka Emilia , Kawecka-Grochocka Ewelina , Pawlina-Tyszko Klaudia , Zalewska Magdalena , Kapusta Aleksandra , Kościuczuk Ewa , Marczak Sylwester , Ząbek Tomasz
Published: March 2021

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are short, non-coding RNAs, 21–23 nucleotides in length which are known to regulate biological processes that greatly impact immune system activity. The aim of the study was to compare the miRNA expression in non-infected (H) mammary gland parenchyma samples with that of glands infected with coagulase-positive staphylococci (CoPS) or coagulase-negative staphylococci (CoNS) using next-generation sequencing. The miRNA profile of the parenchyma was found to change during mastitis, with its profile depending on the type of pathogen. Comparing the CoPS and H groups, 256 known and 260 potentially new miRNAs were identified, including 32 that were differentially expressed (p ≤ 0.05), of which 27 were upregulated and 5 downregulated. Comparing the CoNS and H groups, 242 known and 171 new unique miRNAs were identified: 10 were upregulated (p ≤ 0.05), and 2 downregulated (p ≤ 0.05). In addition, comparing CoPS with H and CoNS with H, 5 Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathways were identified; in both comparisons, differentially-expressed miRNAs were associated with the bacterial invasion of epithelial cells and focal adhesion pathways. Four gene ontology terms were identified in each comparison, with 2 being common to both immune system processes and signal transduction. Our results indicate that miRNAs, especially miR-99 and miR-182, play an essential role in the epigenetic regulation of a range of cellular processes, including immunological systems bacterial growth in dendritic cells and disease pathogenesis (miR-99), DNA repair and tumor progression (miR-182).
A finite-difference discretization preserving the structure of solutions of a diffusive model of type-1 human immunodeficiency virus
Authors: Alba-Pérez Joel , Macías-Díaz Jorge E.
Published: March 2021

We investigate a model of spatio-temporal spreading of human immunodeficiency virus HIV-1. The mathematical model considers the presence of various components in a human tissue, including the uninfected CD4+T cells density, the density of infected CD4+T cells, and the density of free HIV infection particles in the blood. These three components are nonnegative and bounded variables. By expressing the original model in an equivalent exponential form, we propose a positive and bounded discrete model to estimate the solutions of the continuous system. We establish conditions under which the nonnegative and bounded features of the initial-boundary data are preserved under the scheme. Moreover, we show rigorously that the method is a consistent scheme for the differential model under study, with first and second orders of consistency in time and space, respectively. The scheme is an unconditionally stable and convergent technique which has first and second orders of convergence in time and space, respectively. An application to the spatio-temporal dynamics of HIV-1 is presented in this manuscript. For the sake of reproducibility, we provide a computer implementation of our method at the end of this work.
Production of Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA) for Biomedical Application using Sugar Industry Waste and Native Micro Flora via Biphasic System.
Authors: Paulraj P , Periyavedi S , Sajna K , T Mohamed Javad P , Sajeesh P , Chandramohan M , Ketharin T
Published: March 2021

Plastics are synthetic polymers that changed our daily life due to their applications. But itâ€™s increasing environmental problems had made the researchers find the alternative way such as usage of biodegradable plastics like Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA) which has similar properties to the conventional plastic. In this research production and characterization of PHAs using sugar industry wastes as a sole carbon source was carried in order to reduce the cost of production of PHA. Isolation of heterotrophic native micro flora from soil sample contaminated with sugar effluent for amylolytic and cellulolytic activity with PHA production potentials was carried out. Â Suitable conditions for PHA accumulation were optimized with 1X and 2X MSM with sugar effluent as a sole carbon source and bacteriostatic antibiotics as an inducer using bi-phasic system. A total of 14 different heterotrophic native bacterial strains were isolated, among them, 4 isolates showed starch hydrolytic property, 7 isolates showed cellulolytic activity and 7 were PHA producers. The strain with the highest PHA accumulation (99.99Âµg/mL of culture) in 2X MSM with sugar effluent within 6 hours was considered as a potential strain (53% of PHB CWD). The isolate was confirmed as Chryseobacterium Sp. using 16S rRNA sequencing.Â
Evaluation of Potential Native Phosphate Solubilizing Bacteria for the Agriculture Practice of okra (Abelmoschus Esculentus) with the Target to Replace Chemical Fertilizer - in a Field Study
Authors: Sajeesh P , Paulraj P , Jaamuna V , Jayakumar N , P Sajna K , Chandramohan M , Ketharin T , T Mohamed Javad P
Published: March 2021

Phosphorus (P) is a major growth limiting nutrient. Phosphate Solubilizing Bacteria (PSB) plays an important role in the development of agricultural industry. In this study, the native PSB were isolated from the okra plant root by using Pikovskayaâ€™s medium and potential strains were selected based on the phosphate solubilization efficiency. The potential strains in presence of Rock Phosphate (RP), Tea dust, Eggshells and Bone waste of animal (TEB) were studied as an alternative fertilizer instead of chemical fertilizer. The PSB consortia strains were prepared and inoculated to the plant root. Different growth parameters were studied to determine the effectiveness of strains. In all cases the difference was significant with p<0.05. A decreasing trend of results were recorded among the tested parameters from plants in PSB with RP, PSB with TEB, and PSB with TSP and followed by PSB without fertilizer. The highest results were recorded among plants in PSB with RP for mean shoot length (64cm), mean weight of fruits (29gm), mean length of fruits (23cm), mean number of leaves (13Nos) and chlorophyll content (5.1mg/g). Hence, the present study showed that the application of PSB with the cheap source of nutrients has shown the capability of providing similar or enhanced results based on the various characters expressed by the plant and thus reduce the reliance on synthetic chemical fertilizers.Â
Phylogenetic Relationship of Barnacles (Fam:Balanidae) Sampled on Artificial Substrata of Kuala Selangor and Morib
Authors: N Roseman N , Rasol R , Ismail A , R Singh H , Z M Yusof F
Published: March 2021

Barnacles are marine sessile crustacean inhabiting intertidal areas of the Selangor coastline. They are seen attaching themselves to rocks and artificial structures such as jetty, piers, boats and sea walls. Being the most successful biofoulers, barnacles cause economic losses to some extent. Most of barnacles study focused on morphological identification only. Since molecular method gave more accurate results by sequence comparison, species identification was done on samples of obviously different species inhabiting artificial substrata by using mitochondrial 16S rDNA identification. In Kuala Selangor, there was only one species found on artificial substrata in Bagan Pasir and Pasir Penambang which was identified as Amphibalanus cirratus. Two species that differed in their morphological characteristics found on Morib sea walls were identified as Amphibalanus cirratus and Chthamalus malayensis. Phylogenetic tree based on the 16S rDNA showed that all the samples were in the same cluster reflecting that they are in the same clade.Â Â
Comparative Study on Anti-Acetylcholinesterase and Anti-Inflammatory Activities of Date and Apple Vinegars Fortified with Centella Asiatica
Authors: I Adenan M , A Jusril N , A Radzun K , Z Hafiz Z
Published: March 2021

Neuroinflammation and deficiency of cholinergic are major factors of neurodegenerative damage correlated to cognitive impairment in Alzheimerâ€™s disease (AD). We investigated the anti-inflammatory and anti-acetylcholinesterase activities of apple and date vinegars added with Centella asiatica in SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells. The neuroprotective effect of apple or date vinegar added with various percentage of C. asiatica (0, 0.5, 2, 5) % w/v was determined in vitro. The methanolic extract of apple vinegar added with 2% C. asiatica (AV-2% CA) and date vinegar added with 2% C. asiatica (DV-2% CA) Â extracts showed potent neuroprotective effect. Both extracts were subjected to liquid-liquid partitioning yielded aqueous (H2O: AV/DV-2% CA) and ethyl acetate (EA: AV/DV-2% CA) extracts. Anti-inflammatory response against nitric oxide (NO) of all extracts was measured in LPS-induced SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells and percentage inhibition of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) was measured using commercially available test kits. It was found that EA: DV-2% CA showed potent ameliorating effect against LPS-induced inflammation (I50: 563.5 Â± 0.13Î¼g/mL) and was also responsible in the AChE inhibition activity (IC50: 9.087 Â± 0.02). Thus, this extract is suggested to have dual properties of anti-inflammatory and anti-acetylcholinesterase inhibition activity that could be beneficial in the treatment and prevention of neurodegenerative disease.Â Â Â
Newly Synthesized N-Substituted Thiosemicarbazone as a Potential Corrosion Inhibitor for Mild Steel in 1 M HCl
Authors: Z. Nor Hashim N , Kassim K , H. Zaidon F
Published: March 2021

Two N-substituted thiosemicarbazone derivatives namely as 2-(4-chlorobenzylidene)-N-phenylhydrazinecarbothioamide and 2-benzylidene-N-phenylhydrazinecarbothioamide (L1 and L2, respectively) have been tested as corrosion inhibitors on mild steel in 1 M HCl. The ligands were synthesized and investigated using potentiodynamic polarization (PD) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS).Â  The obtained results indicated that inhibition efficiency, (IE, %) L1 increased with increasing inhibitor concentrations which behaved as a good corrosion inhibitor compared to L2. The synthesized ligands were successfully characterized by melting point, elemental analysis (C, H, N, and S), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and NMR (1H and 13C) spectroscopy. The excellent inhibition effectiveness for both compounds on mild steel before and after immersion in 1 M HCl solution containing 40 ppm of L1 and L2 were also verified by scanning electron microscope (SEM). Based on potentiodynamic polarization results, it can be concluded that all investigated compounds are mixed-type inhibitors and obey the Langmuir adsorption isotherm.Â
Synthesis and Characterization of MgO Doped ZnO Nanorods Prepared by Solution Immersion Method and their Effect on Energy Band Gap
Authors: Khusaimi Z , A.M. Asib N , Z. Umbaidilah S , N. Afaah A , N.E. Syafika C , F. Chayed N. , Rusop M.
Published: March 2021

In this research, solid powder form ZnO and MgO-doped ZnO were prepared by using solution immersion method. Mg divalent cation with different atomic percentage of 0.5%, 1.0% and 1.5% were added in 0.04 M of Zn2+ solution containing zinc nitrate hexahydrates as precursor and hexamethylene tetraamine as stabilizer. Annealing treatment was consequently carried out to transform the precursors into oxide forms. ZnO and MgO-doped ZnO were successfully obtained and the surface morphology, crystallite size and elemental composition were studied using Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscope (FESEM) and Energy dispersive X-Ray (EDX) respectively. The band gap energy was determined using Ultraviolet-Visible spectrophotometer (UV-Vis). FESEM images showed that the powder form of ZnO and MgO-doped ZnO consist of rod-like shape. A 0.5% of MgO-doped ZnO sample has smallest size of rods with higher aspect ratio compared to others. The EDX result revealed that the sample composed of Zn, O and Mg in the sample. The band gap energy for all samples was determined using Tauc plot and it was found that the band gap energy is reduced with 1.0 and 1.5 % doping while increased at 0.5% doping. The band gap energy was found to range between 3.23 eV to 3.26 eV. The 0.5% of Mg-doped ZnO with higher aspect ratio shows the highest band gap energy value.Â Â
Application of Ziziphus Jujube (Red Date), Camellia Sinensis (Black Tea) and Aleurites Moluccana (Candle Nut) Marinades as Beef Meat Tenderizer
Authors: Afifi Ismail Mohamad , Anuar Ibrahim Mohamad , Rashedi Ismail-Fitry Mohamad
Published: March 2021

This study was carried out to analyse Ziziphus jujube (red date), Camellia sinensis (black tea) and Aleurites moluccana (candlenut) extract as the potential beef tenderizer. The beef meat chunks (3cm3) were marinated with the extracts at different concentrations (20%, 40% and 60%) for 24 hours at 4ÂºC. Both raw and cooked samples were subjected to physicochemical analyses and sensory evaluation. Overall, there were slight changes in pH values and increased in moisture content for all the treated samples. The increased concentration of extracts resulted in decreased cooking loss and the hardness from texture profile analysis (TPA) of the treated sample compared to the control. The colour analysis showed a significant (p<0.05) different in term of lightness, redness and yellowness of all treated meat chunks. Increased concentration of extracts reduced the redness of meat samples. The sensory evaluation indicated that the tenderness, juiciness and overall acceptability of all treated samples were significantly (p<0.05) higher compared to control. It can be suggested that the marination of meat with Ziziphus jujube (red date), Camellia sinensis (black tea) and Aleurites moluccana (candlenut) extracts have the ability to tenderize the meat as the toughness decreased in all treated samples with Ziziphus jujube (red date) was the best tenderizer.Â Â Â
A Systematic Review of Lean Six Sigma Implementation in Food Industry
Authors: Najihah Azalanzazllay Nurul , Abdul Halim Lim Sarina
Published: March 2021

Lean Six Sigma (LSS) is the most current quality management approach being applied recently in many industries to improve food quality and subsequently process excellence in the businesses. The objectives of this paper are to determine the barriers and resistance to change factors of implementing LSS approach in the food industry. This study was conducted as to determine the benefits of applying LSS and comparing the trend of quality management being used in the food industry. It is also based on the application of systematic review of 113 LSS articles, involving a structured approach of data collection and data extraction. The listed barriers and resistance to change factors shown are top management support, lack of quality improvement knowledge, poor training and insufficient skills amongst employees and lack of financial budget thus causing the limitation of LSS approach in the food industry. The result mapped the current quality management approaches implemented in the food industry. The academics and the food industry practitioners may have an insight from this paper by considering their critical success factors, barriers and resistance to change factors that could facilitate towards a successful LSS implementation.Â Â Â
Mechanical Properties and Formaldehyde Emission of Rubberwood Particleboard Using Emulsified Methylene Diphenyl Diisocyanate (EMDI) Binder at Different Press Factor Continuous Press
Authors: Y. Ab Hafidz M. , F. Mohd2 A. , Zulkifli M.
Published: March 2021

Rubberwood particleboard with low formaldehyde emission is a must in wood based paneling industry especially for export market such as in Japan, Korean, European countries and North America Region. Avoiding of urea formaldehyde binder and substitute it with emulsion isocyanate resin is an alternative in particleboard production. However, the low tackiness and sticking to steel belt during transferring and pressing in actual particleboard production contributes to surface defects as well as variation in mechanical properties of the final product. The results revealed that a correlation speed and press factor is necessary in order to improve mechanical properties and to keep the physical performance of boards within a limited range of values. Various speeds of press factors were studied at 15.0, 14.5, 14.0, 13.5 sec/mm to study the effect to the bending, internal bonding, screw withdrawal, surface soundness, thickness swelling, moisture content properties and formaldehyde emission of particleboard. At higher production speed (lower press factor), bending, internal bonding, MOE and edge screw withdrawals properties of particleboard was decrease by 3% to 13%. Thickness swelling and moisture content were increased in final particleboard production. Emission of formaldehyde was below than 0.15 mg/L (JIS A 1460) at all speeds of press factor which is extremely low.Â Â Â
Compaction and CBR Characteristics of Sandy Clay Stabilised with Fibre-Mixed Binder
Authors: L. Tsai K. , M. Chan C. , C. Tan P.
Published: March 2021

Soil chemical stabilization is an effective yet comparatively economical ground improvement method which involves injecting or blending a binder into the existing soil to enhance the geotechnical properties (e.g. strength and stiffness) for load-bearing purposes. The technique is especially beneficial for road construction works on clayey soil of limited load-bearing capacity such as rural roads. It required thick road base is critical to ensure long-term stability and performance. An endeavour is therefore undertaken to examine the effectiveness of a proprietary fibre-mixed binder in stabilizing soils (sandy clay) nature to serve as road base material. Kaolin was mixed with sand as the base soil at ratios of 0, 25 and 50% sand addition. The fibre-mixed binder was added at dosages of 1.5, 2.5 and 3.5% as recommended by the proprietor. Standard compaction test was first carried out to determine the optimum water content for each kaolin-sand mix. Then left to cure for 1, 3, 7 and 28 days before subjected to the California Bearing Ratio (CBR) test. From the test results, it was found that 2.5% binder addition was sufficient to attain the minimum CBR requirement of 30% for supporting a conventional flexible pavement, as per JKR standard. However, the 100% clay sample required higher binder dosages. Clearly sand particles in the soil contributed to the formation of skeletal scaffolding of the soil matrix, bound and supported by the fibre-mixed binder for enhanced strength properties. This was evident in the compaction test where 50% sand addition reduced the optimum water content by almost half compared to the 100% clay. Moreover 3-day curing could adequately strengthen all samples to attain the minimum CBR requirement (JKR standard), irrespective of the binder dosage used. In conclusion, it could effectively strengthen sandy clay soils within 3 days with dosages as low as 2.5%.Â Â
Fabrication and Characterisation of Titanium Dioxide (Tio2)/PVA Nanofibre Composites using Electrospinning
Authors: D.N. Affandi N. , Y. Chin L. , Fadil F. , A. Azhar F.
Published: March 2021

A study on the formation of titanium dioxide (TiO2)/ polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) nanofibres has been investigated in the research work. In the study, the TiO2/PVA solutions were prepared at different concentrations ranging from 1wt% to 10wt%. The PVA solution without TiO2 was used as control sample in the study. Each solution was extruded using electrospinning at different voltages to form long and continuous nanofibres. The fibres were then characterised for morphological structures, fibre diameter and membrane area. The result shows that control sample of PVA nanofibres formed beads on the fibre surfaces. The addition of TiO2 in PVA was found to reduce the bead formation. The clumps of TiO2 nanoparticles were observed and were also confirmed with the EDX mapping. In addition, the electrospinning parameters affect the formation of TiO2/PVA nanofibers. At 15 kV, the resultant fibre diameter increases from 153 Â± 23 nm to 191 Â± 26 nm when the TiO2 concentration was further increased from 1wt% to 10wt%. The morphological structure of TiO2/PVA nanofibres varies depending on applied voltages and concentrations used. The membrane area of TiO2/PVA nanofibers is approximately 187 cm2 for 1wt% of TiO2. From the study, it shows that an optimalconcentration to produce TiO2/ PVA nanofibers is 10wt%. At 10wt%, no beads were observed on the fibre and the TiO2 nano-particles were uniformly distributed on the membrane surfaces.Â Â
Augmentation of Nanofluids Heat Transfer in a Circular Pipe with Coiled Tube Insert as Heat Source and Swirl Generator
Authors: D. Salman S. , . .
Published: March 2021

This research present steady state heat transfer and fluid flow characteristics in concentric pipe with coiled tube insert for turbulent flow regime with metal oxide nanofluid using ANSYS-FLUENT 18.0 where the governing equations of mass, momentum and heat transfer were solved simultaneously, using the k-e two equations turbulence model. Copper was chosen as the as metal for the construction of pipe and the helical tube insert. Coiled tube with curvature to pitch ratio as 1 and 2.5 mm in diameter with 1% volume fractions of TiO2 and CuO Nanofluid with Reynolds number ranged from 4000-16000 were considered in this research. The heat generated from constant water temperature (80 Â°C) with constant flow rates in helical coil (Re=4000). The Result shows that the heat and friction coefficients conducted by vortex generator raised with Reynolds number and accretion of nanoparticle presence. Furthermore, the maximum rate of heat transfer with significant intension in friction coefficient has been produced TiO2 nanofluid by as compared with CuO and water.Â Â
Electromagnetic Shielding Analysis (EMS) of Hybrid Multilayered Woven Fabric at Different Transmitter Distance
Authors: K. Omar N. , F. Yahya M. , R. Ahmad M. , T. Ali M.
Published: March 2021

This paper mainly discusses on the effectiveness of multiple plain-woven fabric towards electromagnetic shielding (EMS). The measurement includes the effect of fabric distance from the transmitter antennas in the shielded enclosure test. The conductive fabric consists of copper cover hybrid yarns produced using hollow spindle spinning machine. The electromagnetic shielding test was performed according to IEEE-299 specification at 2000MHz. The range was selected to reflect mobile phones, wireless fidelity, Bluetooth and GPS transmission range frequencies.Â  Four samples of conductive fabrics were used in the work, as 0Â°/0Â°, 90Â°/90Â°, 0Â°/90Â° and 90Â°/0, respectively. The fabric sample with 0Â°/90Â° alignment was found to give the best electromagnetic shielding at -65.79dBM. The initial results also show that the hybrid conductive fabrics have large potential to be utilized for shielding electromagnetic radiation (EMR).Â Â
The Effect of Puncture Load Cell Variation on Multi-Angle Layered Woven Fabric
Authors: A.A. Rahim N. , F. Yahya M. , A. Ghani S.
Published: March 2021

High tenacity polyester plain woven fabric punctured at multi angle layers were investigated. The main objective of the work was to analyse the effect of multi angle layered arrangement to quasi static puncture energy on different magnitude force. High tenacity polyester plain woven fabrics were weaved by using a rapier weaving machine at 300 rpm and 100% efficiency. The woven fabric samples consisted of different angles (90Âº, 0Âº, 45Âº and 135Âº). The maximum layers of woven fabric samples were two layers. The work was designed to evaluate the relationship between quasi static puncture energy of different load cell and multi angle layered of woven fabric. The results suggested that 10kN load cell gave the best value of puncture test and had been considered the appropriate force to test on woven fabrics.Â
Surface Defect Detection using Novel Histogram Distance-based Multiple Template Anomalies Detection Algorithm
Authors: Wong Ze-Hao , M. Thong C. , M. Edmund Loh W. , J. Wong C.
Published: March 2021

Surface defects in manufacturing are top challenges in various manufacturing field including LED manufacturing, die manufacturing and printing industry. Quality control through automated surface defect detection has been an emphasis to speed up the production without jeopardizing the quality of the product. However, complexity and flexibility in product design, specification and dataset availability posted challenges in existing referential-based algorithm. Golden template-based algorithms are sensitive to misalignment and product variations. Deep learning and its variant can be used as non-linear filter to segment anomalies area. However, deep learning requires huge labelled database and consume long learning time. Similarly, maximum likelihood-based algorithms require large database for learning. This research proposes a novel histogram distance based multiple templates anomalies detection (MTAD) algorithm to segment surface defect. Histogram distance based on kernel-wise histograms stacked across illumination normalized database of similar size can describe the degree of anomaly intuitively across the image. Then, surface defect can be justified intuitively according to anomaly heat map generated. The algorithm is tested against industrial samples and it can handle texture and design variation existed in the product while catching anomaly in real time. This research suggests future studies on extending dimensionality of the histogram. Suggested algorithm has wide range of application other than surface defect detection. For examples, video motion detection, decolorization detection on industrial lighting.Â Â
Biosynthesis of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles for Corrosion Protection Application
Authors: Md Akhir Rabiatuladawiyah , Haziq Norashikin Mohamad , Muzamir Mahat Mohd , Najmi Bonnia Noor
Published: March 2021

The present study reports the successful synthesis of biosynthesized zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs). The Pandanus Amaryllifolius leaves extract was used as reducing agent with zinc nitrate hexahydrate as precursor. The effects of synthesis temperature on biosynthesis of ZnONPâ€™s are discussed.Â  The biosynthesized ZnONPs were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD) ; and they were found to exhibit the hexagonal wurtzite structure. The diffractograms revealed well-defined, strong and sharp peaks at 2Î¸ positions that correspond to its crystallinity with average size of 16.25 nm. Micrograph images from Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscope (FESEM) have shown polydispersed spherical shape of the biosynthesized ZnONPs. Smaller grain sizes were produced at low synthesis temperature of 60ÂºC. The elemental composition analysis confirmed the presence of zinc and oxygen by Energy Dispersive X-ray (EDX). The corrosion inhibition efficiency of mild steel in 1.0 M hydrochloric acid (HCl) solution was determined by weight loss method. Of significance, good corrosion inhibition efficiency of 79.43% was obtained by incorporating the biosynthesized ZnONPâ€™s at synthesis temperature of 60ÂºC.Â Â
Conductivity Studies of Epoxidized PMMA Grafted Natural Rubber Doped Lithium Triflate Gel Polymer Electrolytes
Authors: Nazir Khuzaimah , Fariz Mohamad Taib Mohamad , Zakaria Rosnah , Kamil Yaakob Muhamad , Hasdinor Hassan Oskar , Zu Azhan Yahya Muhd , Malik Marwan Ali Ab
Published: March 2021

A gel polymer electrolytes (GPEs) comprising of 62.3 mol% of epoxidized-30% poly(methyl methacrylate) grafted natural rubber (EMG30) as a polymer host, LiCF3SO3 as a dopant salt and ethylene carbonate (EC) as a plasticizer was prepared by solution-casting technique. The effect of plasticizer on the EMG30- LiCF3SO3 on the ionic conductivity is explained in terms of the plasticizer loading of the film. The temperature dependence of the conductivity of the polymer films obeys the Vogel-Tamman-Fulcher (VTF) relationship. The ionic transference number is calculated using Wagnerâ€™s polarization technique shows that the conducting species are predominantly due ions and hence showed the system is an ionic conductor. Surface morphological analysis showed the sample with the highest conductivity exhibited most homogenous in nature.Â Â
Dielectric Studies of PEO-based Polymer Electrolytes Doped with LiTFSI Salt and EMIMTFSI Ionic Liquid
Authors: Hayati Al-Madihah Hashim Nor , Hanum Yahaya Subban Ri
Published: March 2021

In this work, poly (ethylene oxide) (PEO) is doped with Lithium bis (trifluoromethanesulfonyl) imide (LiTFSI) salt and 1-Ethyl-3-methylimidazolium bis (trifluromethanesulfonyl) imide (EMIm-TFSI) ionic liquid, a plasticiser, for preparation of PEO-LiTFSI-EMImTFSI plasticised polymer electrolyte (PPE) system. Impedance spectroscopy is used to analyse the dependence of dielectric behaviour of the films on frequency and temperature. It is performed in the temperature range between 303K to 343K for frequencies between 50 Hz to 1 MHz. The cationic transport in the films may be explained from the dielectric constant, Ô‘r and dielectric loss, Ô‘i where they are found to increase with temperature at lower frequency and decrease at higher frequency, showing that the electrodes were being polarized. Both real parts, Mr and imaginary part, Mi of the modulus showed an increase at high frequency that indicates the spread of conductivity relaxation. The highest temperature (343K) achieved the lowest relaxation time, Ï„ due to increase in number of ions and increase in mobility of ions in the polymer system indicating that conductivity in this system is thermally activated.Â
The Effects of Rice Flour Solution and ZnO Nanoparticles Coated on Mango to Inhibit Anthracnose Disease
Authors: Abdullah Saifollah , Rosman NF. , Asli NA. , Rusop Mohamad
Published: March 2021

Nowadays nanotechnology is used in many applications including electronic devices, sensor, solar cell, pharmaceutical and food and agriculture industry as well. One of the main contributions of nanotechnology in agrotechnology industry is preservation of post-harvest product through coating process. A mango fruit is very perishable and so has a short shelf life, which both marketers and consumers would like to be longer. In this study, mango fruit was coated with ZnO and rice flour solution of 3 mg/ml and 5 mg/ml manually and was stored at room temperature for 7 days to observe the growth of black spot daily. The weight loss was also evaluated. The mixed coating materials which is ZnO and rice flour inhibited the growth of microorganisms. The results in SEM show that the nanoparticles agglomerates. The data revealed that applying ZnO coating effectively prolonged the quality attributes and extends the shelf life of mango fruit.Â Â Â
The Design and Implementation of Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) for Ordinary Differential Equations (ODE)
Authors: Md Said Junaida , Arul Elizabeth , Abdul Razak Samsiah , Azila Yahya Nur , Husna Jamian Nural
Published: March 2021

Ordinary Differential Equations (ODE) is taken by students in the mathematics, science or engineering programs in Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM). This course was originally taught in the traditional way with the lecturer as the instructor. In 2014, this course evolved into the blended-learning mode i.e. a combination of classroom sessions and online sessions using the university learning management system. In 2017, a team of lecturers in the Tapah campus of UiTM decided to develop an instructional design of ODE using the MOOC platform. Students would then use the MOOC during the blended-learning hour. Five modules are offered in this MOOC. Lecture notes are presented using Prezi together with instructional videos and self-checking exercises. 55 students enrolled for the MOOC and were surveyed to gauge the initial impact of the MOOC as an instructional tool. More than 50% of the students said that the MOOC absolutely helped them to better understand the classroom sessions. Most of the students put in maximum effort in accessing the MOOC. The MOOC also helped to build up self-confidence of students in the course material. It is hoped that as the MOOC is further refined and improved, more students will benefit from the MOOC.Â Â