bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ПРОБЛЕМНЫЕ ВОПРОСЫ ОПРЕДЕЛЕНИЯ КАДАСТРОВОЙ СТОИМОСТИ НЕДВИЖИМОСТИ
Authors: Ильиных Анастасия Леонидовна , Пименова Виктория Романовн
Published: October 2020

В статье рассматриваются проблемные вопросы определения кадастровой стоимости объектов недвижимости. Приведены основные причины возникновения ошибок, основанные на некачественном сборе информации для кадастровой оценки и взаимоотношениях между обществом и государством в момент ее оспаривания.
Peningkatan Karakteristik Biodegradable Plastics dari Kulit Pisang Candi dengan Penambahan Filler Kalsium Silikat dan Clay
Authors: Udjiana S. Sigit , Hadiantoro Sigit , Takwanto Anang , Mustikarini Anugrah Windy
Published: October 2020

Biodegradable  plastics adalah plastik yang memiliki sifat ramah lingkungan. Kulit pisang candi berpotensi digunakan sebagai bahan dasar pembuatan bioplastik karena mengandung pati sebesar 28,488 %. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui pengaruh plasticizer (sorbitol) dan filler (kalsium silikat dan clay) terhadap kuat tarik, % elongasi, % biodegradasi dan % absorpsi bioplastik.  Berdasarkan hasil yang diperoleh, semakin banyak filler clay atau kalsium silikat maka bioplastik memiliki kuat tarik yang besar dan % elongasi yang semakin kecil. Semakin banyak clay yang ditambahkan maka semakin besar daya absorpsi terhadap air, namun semakin banyak kalsium silikat yang ditambahkan maka semakin kecil daya absorpsi terhadap air. Semakin banyak filler kalsium silikat dan clay maka semakin kecil % biodegradasi bioplastik. Semakin banyak jumlah sorbitol yang ditambahkan maka semakin besar % elongasi, % biodegradasi dan % water absorption namun semakin kecil % kuat tarik. Bioplastik dengan penambahan filler kalsium silikat memiliki kuat tarik antara 4,11-22,08 Mpa, % elongasi antara 2,17%-57,95%, % water absorption antara 67,26%-120% dan %biodegradasi antara 0,61%-19,22%. Bioplastik dengan penambahan filler clay memiliki kuat tarik antara 2,38-14,05 Mpa, %elongasi antara 2,11%-46,24%, % water absorption antara 79,07%-150,67% dan %biodegradasi antara 1,17%-34,54%.

 

Biodegradable plastics is plastic which has environmentally properties. Candi banana peels potential to be used as a basic material for making bioplastics because it contains 28,488% starch. The aims of our research is to determine the effect of plasticizer (sorbitol) and filler (calcium silicate and clay) on tensile strength, elongation (%), biodegradation (%) and bioplastic absorption (%). Based on the result, the more amount of calcium silicate or clay filler added, the larger tensile strength and the smaller % elongation. The more amount of clay added, the greater absorption capacity of water, but the more calcium silicate added, the smaller absorption capacity of water. The more amount calcium silicate filler added, the smaller the biodegradation of bioplastic, but in the data based on clay filler, % biodegradation decreased. The more amount of sorbitol added, the greater % elongation, % biodegradation and % water absorption, but the smaller % tensile strength. Bioplastics with calcium silicate as filler has tensile strength between 4.11-22.08 Mpa, % elongation between 2.17% -57.95%, % water absorption between 67.26% -120% and % biodegradation between 0.61-19.22%. Bioplastics with clay as filler has tensile strength between 2.38-14.05 MPa, % elongation between 2.11%-46.24%, % water absorption between 79.07%-150.67% and % biodegradation between 1,17% -34.54%.
Optimasi Penambahan Gliserol sebagai Plasticizer pada Sintesis Plastik Biodegradable dari Limbah Nata de Coco dengan Metode Inversi Fasa
Authors: Setyaningrum Claudia Candra , Hayati Kholisoh , Fatimah Siti
Published: October 2020

Limbah nata de coco merupakan nata yang tidak dapat dijadikan sebagai produk setelah proses sortasi sehingga menghasilkan limbah padat dan jarang dimanfaatkan. Kandungan selulosa pada limbah padat nata de coco sebesar 42,57%. Tujuan penelitian ini membuat plastik biodegradable dengan hasil limbah nata de coco dengan penambahan plasticizer. Metode yang digunakan pada pembuatan plastik biodegradable ini adalah metode inversi fasa dengan variasi berat selulosa 2%; 2,5%; dan 3% (b/v), variasi volume gliserol sebesar 2%, 3%, dan 5% (v/v), dan penambahan kitosan sebagai penguat. Karakteristik pastik biodegradable diuji menggunakan UTM (Universal Testing Machine) dan FTIR (Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy). Plastik biodegradable yang dihasilkan dari berbagai perbandingan berat selulosa dan volume gliserol memiliki karakteristik yang berbeda-beda. Plastik biodegradable dengan karakteristik optimal memiliki nilai kuat tarik optimal sebesar 4,34 MPa, nilai elongasi optimal sebesar 4,44% dan nilai ketahanan air optimal sebesar 65,20%. Pada analisis gugus fungsi menggunakan FTIR menunjukkan tidak ditemukan adanya gugus fungsi baru dalam plastik biodegradable selain gugus fungsi bahan pembentuknya. Pada uji biodegradabilitas, diperoleh nilai biodegradabilitas sebesar              80% – 100% setelah ditimbun di dalam tanah selama 14 hari.

 

Nata de coco waste is nata that cannot be used as a product after the sorting process so that it produces solid waste and is rarely utilized. The cellulose content in nata de coco solid waste is 42.57%, the purpose of this study is to make biodegradable plastic with the results of nata de coco waste by adding plasticizers. The method used in the manufacture of biodegradable plastics is the phase inversion method with cellulose weight variation; 2%; 2.5%; and 3% (w / v), variations in the volume of glycerol by 2%, 3%, and 5% (v/v), and the addition of chitosan as an amplifier. The biodegradable plastic characteristics were tested using UTM (Universal Testing Machine) and FTIR (Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy). Biodegradable plastics that are produced from various weight cellulose and glycerol volume ratios have different characteristics. Biodegradable plastic with optimal characteristics has an optimal tensile strength value of 4.34 MPa, optimal elongation value of 4.44% and an optimal water resistance value of 65.20%. In the analysis of functional groups (FTIR) no new functional groups were found in biodegradable plastics in addition to the functional groups forming materials. In the biodegradability test, a biodegradability value of 80% - 100% is obtained after being buried in the ground for 14 days.
The Effectiveness of Activated Charcoal from Coconut Shell as The Adsorbent of Water Purification in The Laboratory Process of Chemical Engineering Universitas Ahmad Dahlan Yogyakarta
Authors: Jamilatun Siti , Mufandi Ilham
Published: October 2020

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menguji efektivitas arang aktif dari tempurung kelapa untuk pemurnian air di Laboratorium Proses Teknik Kimia, Universitas Ahmad Dahlan, Yogyakarta. Penelitian terdiri dari tiga tahapan: Tahapan pertama, menganalisis kandungan air Laboratorium Teknik Kimia UAD, Tahapan kedua, pengujian efektivitas arang aktif untuk penjernihan air dengan dua (2) cara: (1) filter kolom arang aktif dan (2) pencampuran arang aktif dan air sampel, kemudian dilakukan pengadukan. Tahapan ketiga, menganalisa hasil pemurnian air seperti analisis pH, kadar logam, kesadahan (hardness), kadar sulfat (SO4), kadar fluoride, dan mineral. Parameter pemurnian air merujuk pada Clean Water Quality Standards Kementrian Kesehatan. Hasil penelitian yang diperoleh menunjukkan bahwa pemurnian air menggunakan metode kolom filter dapat mengurangi kesadahan kalsium karbonat (CaCO3) hingga 15,33%, kadar asam sulfat (SO4) hingga 98,21%, kadar Flourida (F) hingga 93,35% pada ketebalan kolom arang aktif 15 cm. Sedangkan pemurnian air dengan pencampuran arang aktif dan pengadukan selama 30 menit dengan kecepatan 1000 rpm dapat mengurangi tingkat kekesadahan CaCO3 hingga 26,81%, kadar asam sulfat (SO4) hingga 98,23%, dan fluorida (F) hingga 93,35%. Pemurnian air melalui pencampuran arang aktif dan air dengan pengadukan lebih baik daripada penggunaan kolom arang aktif, karena klorida, bahan organik, nitrit, nitrat, Fe, Mn, CN- tidak ditemukan dalam air setelah pemurnian.

 

This study aims to examine the effectiveness of activated charcoal from coconut shells for water purification at the Chemical Engineering Process Laboratory, Ahmad Dahlan University, Yogyakarta. The first stage, analyzing the water content of the UAD Chemical Engineering Laboratory, Second, testing the effectiveness of activated charcoal for water purification in two (2) ways: (1) activated charcoal column filter and (2 ) mixing the activated charcoal and water samples, then stirring. The third, analyzing the results of water purification such as analysis of pH, metal content, hardness (hardness), sulfate levels (SO4), fluoride levels, and minerals. Water purification parameters refer to the Ministry of Health's Clean Water Quality Standards. The results optimum obtained using the column filter in thickness activated charcoal column 15 cm could reduce hardness (CaCO3) by 15.33%, sulfuric acid (SO4) levels up to 98.21%, Fluoride (F) levels up to 93.35%. While by mixing activated charcoal (15 gram) and water (500 ml) with stirring for 30 minutes at a speed of 1000 rpm could reduce hardness levels by 26.81%, sulfuric acid (SO4) levels up to 98.23%, and fluoride (F) up to 93.35%. Purification of water through the mixing of activated charcoal and water with stirring is better than using an activated charcoal column because it is better than the chloride, organic matter, nitrite, nitrate, Fe, Mn, CN- are not found in the water after purification.
Karakteristik Hydrocyclone untuk Pemisahan Minyak dan Air
Authors: Suminar Dian Ratna , Nurcahyo Nurcahyo
Published: October 2020

Eksplorasi minyak bumi dari sumur-sumur yang sudah tua menghasilkan minyak dengan kandungan air tinggi. Hydrocyclone suatu alat yang berfungsi untuk pemisahan cair-cair berdasarkan perbedaan berat jenis setiap komponen. Pemisahan ini terjadi dikarenanakan adanya gaya sentrifugal dan gaya gravitasi yang dihasilkan dari bentuk hydrocyclone yang seperti kerucut. Perancangan dan pembuatan hydrocyclone menghasilkan alat dengan spesifikasi sebagai berikut : diameter pipa masukan : 25,4 mm, diameter cylindrical section : 120 mm, tinggi cylindrical section : 120 mm, tinggi cone section : 600 mm, diameter pipa overflow : 25,4 mm, diameter pipa underflow : 25,4 mm. Laju alir optimum untuk pemisahan air-minyak tanah pada hydrocyclone adalah 91,8 liter/menit dengan kadar minyak tanah di overflow sebesar 11,4% dan kadar minyak tanah di underflow sebesar 3%.

 

Petroleum exploration from old wells produces oil with a very high water content. Hydrocyclone is a device that functions for liquid-liquid separation based on differences in specific gravity of each component. This separation occurs due to the presence of centrifugal forces and gravitational forces resulting from cone-like forms of hydrocyclone. The design and manufacture of hydrocyclone produces tools with the following specifications: input pipe diameter: 25.4 mm, cylindrical section diameter: 120 mm, high cylindrical section: 120 mm, cone section height: 600 mm, overflow pipe diameter: 25.4 mm, underflow pipe diameter: 25.4 mm. The optimum flow rate for the separation of water-kerosene on hydrocyclone is 91.8 liters / minute with the level of kerosene in overflow of 11.4% and the level of kerosene in underflow of 3%.
Pembuatan Asam Laktat dari Selulosa oleh Bakteri Lactobacillus delbrueckii dengan Selulase dari Bakteri Bacillus subtilis dan Bacillus circulans
Authors: Maryanty Yanty , Saputra Fandi Lintang Wahyu , Prasetyo Robby
Published: October 2020

Bakteri asam laktat memanfaatkan gula sebagai sumber energi, pertumbuhan, dan menghasilkan metabolit berupa asam laktat selama proses fermentasi. Gula berupa monomer glukosa dapat diperoleh dari hidrolisis atau pemutusan ikatan pada selulosa. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk memproduksi asam laktat dari media selulosa menggunakan metode Simultaneous Saccharification and Fermentation (SSF). SSF diharapkan bermanfaat untuk pengembangan produksi asam laktat yang efektif dari limbah lignoselulosa. Pada tahap pertama, selulosa digunakan oleh Bacillus subtilis dan Bacillus circulans untuk memproduksi enzim selulase. Tahap kedua, enzim selulase kemudian digunakan untuk sakarifikasi selulosa menghasilkan glukosa. Glukosa yang diperoleh difermentasi oleh Lactobacillus delbrueckii menghasilkan asam laktat. Proses pada tahap kedua ini terjadi secara simultan, setelah itu proses fermentasinya digunakan metode SSF, dengan variasi konsentrasi enzim selulase untuk proses sakarifikasi berasal dari Bacillus subtilis dan Bacillus circulans. Proses awal pembuatan enzim selulase menggunakan bakteri Bacillus subtilis dan Bacillus circulans sebagai variabel dan waktu inkubasi selama 84 jam. Enzim selulase selanjutnya digunakan untuk mendegradasi media selulosa dalam proses SSF menjadi glukosa yang selanjutnya akan difermentasi oleh Lactobacillus delbrueckii. Pada proses SSF dengan inokulum Bacillus circulans diperoleh asam laktat tertinggi pada kadar enzim selulase 10% yaitu 1,29% dan dengan inokulum Bacillus subtilis pada kadar enzim selulase 5% yaitu 1,24%.

 

Lactic acid bacteria use sugar as an energy source, growth, and produce metabolites in the form of lactic acid during the fermentation process. This research aimed to make lactic acid from cellulose used Simultaneous Saccharification and Fermentation (SSF). Cellulose is composed of glucose monomers. This method is expected to be useful for the development of significant lactic acid production from lignocellulosic waste. In the first stage, cellulose was used by Bacillus subtilis and Bacillus circulans to produce cellulase enzymes. In the second stage, the cellulase enzyme is then used to saccharify cellulose to produce glucose. The glucose fermented by Lactobacillus delbrueckii to produce lactic acid. The fermentation process uses the SSF method with various concentrations of cellulase enzymes. The initial process by making cellulase enzymes first used the bacteria Bacillus subtilis and Bacillus circulans as variables, and the incubation time was 84 hours. The cellulase enzyme is then used to degrade cellulose media in the SSF process into glucose, which will then be fermented by Lactobacillus delbrueckii. In the SSF process with Bacillus circulans inoculum, the highest lactic acid was obtained at 10% cellulase enzyme levels, amounting to 1.29%, and with Bacillus subtilis inoculums at 5% cellulase enzyme levels, amounting to 1.24%.
Genotype and Sowing Time Effects on Soybean Yield and Quality
Authors: Mandić Violeta , Đorđević Snežana , Đorđević Nikola , Bijelić Zorica , Krnjaja Vesna , Petričević Maja , Brankov Milan
Published: October 2020

The successful production of soybeans is largely dependent on the sowing time, because every sowing outside the optimal time contributes significantly to yield losses. This field study aimed to evaluate the effects of sowing time (optimal—April 5; late—April 27) on the quantitative and quality traits of three soybean genotypes (Galina—0 maturity group; Sava—I maturity group; and Rubin—II maturity group) under dryland conditions in Vojvodina Province (Serbia) during 2017 and 2018. The genotype Sava had higher yield in climatic-unfavorable 2017, while Rubin had a higher yield in climatic-favorable 2018. The yields significantly decreased when the soybeans were sown in late April due to reductions in the number of pods per plant, seed weight per plant, and 1000-seed weight. The reduction in yield components was likely due to the accelerated senescence of plants and the negative effect of high temperature and low precipitation during the seed filling stage. Accordingly, the various sowing times and properly chosen genotypes provide a better utilization of soil and water resources. A proper genotype selection and sowing time can contribute to a high yield. At the same time, the protein and oil contents can be altered by the sowing time, especially under water stress during the reproductive stage.
The Effect of Foliar Application of an Amino Acid-Based Biostimulant on Lawn Functional Value
Authors: Radkowski Adam , Radkowska Iwona , Bocianowski Jan , Sladkovska Tetiana , Wolski Karol
Published: October 2020

The purpose of this research was to assess the functional value of the “Super Trawnik” lawn mixture. The studies were carried out between 2017 and 2019 at the Experimental Station of the University of Agriculture in Krakow (50°07′ N, 20°05′ E), and the experimental factor was the AGRO-SORB® Folium, a biostimulant containing amino acids and applied at three doses: 1, 2, and 3 L·ha−1. Lawn visual quality was assessed on a 9-point scale, with 10–11 mowings at 4 cm during the growing period. An increase in the concentration of the stimulant applied as a spray resulted in a significant increase in its effectiveness; plants in plots with the highest dose of amino acid solution (Variant III) had the highest aesthetic and functional values. The AGRO-SORB® Folium reduced the occurrence of fungal diseases; compared to control plants, there was a 16% reduction of Fusarium patch (Microdochium nivale) infection and a 20% reduction of Dreschlera leaf spot (Drechslera siccans). Satisfactory effects were also recorded on plots where the product was applied at a dose of 2 L·ha−1 (Variant II). Those plots had more favourably rated turf, with higher resistance of plants to Fusarium patch by 12% and to Dreschlera leaf spot by 20% compared to control.
Burnup Credit Evaluation for BWR Spent Fuel from Full Core Calculations
Authors: Detkina Anna , Litskevitch Dzianis , Peakman Aiden , Merk Bruno
Published: October 2020

Due to the challenges of spent fuel accumulation, the nuclear industry is exploring more cost-effective solutions for spent fuel management. The burnup-credit method, in application for storage and transport of the spent fuel, gained traction over recent decades since it can remove the over-conservatism of the “fresh-fuel” approach. The presented research is focused on creating an innovative, best estimate approach of the burnup-credit method for boiling water reactor (BWR) spent fuel based on the results of neutronic/thermal-hydraulic coupled full core simulations. The analysis is performed using a Polaris/DYN3D sequence. Four different shuffling procedures were used to estimate the possible range of the BWR fuel discharged burnup variation. The results showed a strong influence of the shuffling procedure on the final burnup distribution. Moreover, a comparison of the 2D lattice and 3D coupled nodal approaches was conducted for the criticality estimation of single fuel assemblies. The analysis revealed substantial improvement in criticality curves obtained with the full-core model. Finally, it was shown that the benefit from the burnup-credit method is larger in the case of more optimal fuel utilisation-based shuffling procedures. The new approach developed here delivers a promising basis for future industrial optimisation procedures and thus cost optimisation.
Markers of Energy Metabolism Affect Lactate Metabolism and Aerobic Performance in Competitive Female Cyclists
Authors: Jurov Iva , Hadžić Vedran , Rauter Samo
Published: October 2020

(1) Background: Low energy availability (LEA) has negative effects on performance, but mechanisms, timing, and other circumstances of these effects are not yet established. We aim to assess the performance-related effects of low energy availability in competitive female cyclists with a detailed approach to within-day energy availability (WDEB). (2) Methods: Female competitive cyclists (n = 8) completed the measurement of body composition, resting energy expenditure, and incremental testing; they reported diary logs and used accelerometers for energy availability (EA) calculation. Based on the Low Energy Availability in Females (LEAF) questionnaire, performance and energy parameters were compared between cyclists with risk for relative energy deficiency in sport (RED-S; the LEAF+ group) and cyclists without any risk (LEAF−). (3) Results: 87.5% had EA <30 kcal/kg. EA and energy balance in LEAF– were significantly different from LEAF+ cyclists (U = 0.00, z = −2.00, p < 0.05 and U = 0.00, z = −2.00, p < 0.05, respectively). We found significant correlations between WDEB−300 and EA (−0.736, p = 0.037) and energy balance (−0.732, p = 0.039). In addition, relative power output was correlated with mRMR/pRMR (−0.763, p = 0.046). (4) Conclusions: This study is the first to show that WDEB−300 in competitive female cyclists is greater in cyclists with risk for RED-S. Increased time in a catabolic state was correlated to worse anaerobic capacity in incremental testing. Measuring mRMR/pRMR might be useful as it was negatively associated with aerobic performance.
Analysis of Weather Patterns Related to Wintertime Particulate Matter Concentration in Seoul and a CMIP6-Based Air Quality Projection
Authors: Kwon Sang-Hoon , Kim Jinwon , Shim Sungbo , Seo Jeongbyn , Byun Young-Hwa
Published: October 2020

This study analyzes the relationship between various atmospheric fields and the observed PM10 concentrations in the Seoul metropolitan area, South Korea, during the winters of the 2001–2014 period to find suitable atmospheric indices for predicting high PM10 episodes in the region. The analysis shows that PM10 concentration in the metropolitan area is mainly affected by the intensity of horizontal ventilation and the 500 hPa high-pressure system over the Korean peninsula. The modified Korea particulate matter index (MKPI) is proposed based on a 10 m wind speed for surface ventilation and 500 hPa zonal wind for the intensity of a 500 hPa high-pressure system over the Korean peninsula. It is found that a positive MKPI value is closely correlated with the occurrence of high PM10 concentration episodes, and hence, can be used as a predictor for high PM10 episodes in the area. A future projection of the MKPI using two three-member general circulation model (GCM) ensembles with four shared socioeconomic pathway (SSP) scenarios in Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 6 (CMIP6) shows that positive MKPI events and high PM10 episodes are expected to increase by 5.4−16.4% depending on the SSP scenarios in the 2081−2100 period from the present-day period of 1995−2014.
In Situ Thermal-Stage Fitted-STEM Characterization of Spherical-Shaped Co/MoS2 Nanoparticles for Conversion of Heavy Crude Oils
Authors: Ramos Manuel , Galindo-Hernández Félix , Torres Brenda , Domínguez-Esquivel José Manuel , Heilmaier Martin
Published: October 2020

We report the thermal stability of spherically shaped cobalt-promoted molybdenum disulfide (Co/MoS2) nano-catalysts from in-situ heating under electron irradiation in the scanning transmission electron microscope (STEM) from room temperature to 550 °C ± 50 °C with aid of Fusion® holder (Protochip©, Inc.). The catalytic nanoparticles were synthesized via a hydrothermal method using sodium molybdate (Na2MoO4·2H2O) with thioacetamide (CH3CSNH2) and cobalt chloride (CoCl2) as promoter agent. The results indicate that the layered molybdenum disulfide structure with interplanar distance of ~0.62 nm remains stable even at temperatures of 550 °C, as observed in STEM mode. Subsequently, the samples were subjected to catalytic tests in a Robinson Mahoney Reactor using 30 g of Heavy Crude Oil (AGT-72) from the golden lane (Mexico’s east coast) at 50 atm using (ultrahigh purity) UHP hydrogen under 1000 rpm stirring at 350 °C for 8 h. It was found that there is no damage on the laminar stacking of Co/MoS2 with temperature, with interlayer spacing remaining at 0.62 nm; these sulfided catalytic materials led to aromatics rise of 22.65% and diminution of asphaltenes and resins by 15.87 and 3.53%, respectively.
Photocatalytic Degradation of a Systemic Herbicide: Picloram from Aqueous Solution Using Titanium Oxide (TiO2) under Sunlight
Authors: Islam Md. Rakibul , Islam Jahida Binte , Furukawa Mai , Tateishi Ikki , Katsumata Hideyuki , Kaneco Satoshi
Published: October 2020

The photocatalytic degradation of picloram (4-amino-3,5,6-trichloro-2-pyridincarboxylic acid), which is one of popular acidic herbicide, was investigated with the existence of titanium oxide (TiO2) under sunlight. The total photocatalytic degradation of 20 ppm of picloram was occurred within 30 min irradiation with TiO2, while a negligible degradation was found without TiO2 under sunlight. The influence of various parameters, like TiO2 dosage, solution initial pH, intensity of light, reaction temperature and irradiation time, was found during the photocatalytic degradation of picloram. The mineralization of picloram was proved by the deterioration of total organic carbon (TOC) of the photocatalytic process. The pseudo–first order kinetics of photocatalytic degradation was obtained according to the Langmuir–Hinshelwood model, and the reaction rate constant was 17.6 × 10−2 min−1. Chloride ion, ammonium ion, nitrate ion and CO2 were erected as the final products after completing the photocatalytic degradation of picloram. The intermediate products could not be determined by the GC–MS during the degradation of picloram. Therefore, the degradation mechanism of the picloram was proposed based on the frontier electron density and the point charge at each atom of the picloram molecule. The photocatalytic degradation method, using sunlight, may develop into as a pragmatic technique to purify picloram contaminated wastewater.
Impact of Surface Functionalization by Nanostructured Silver Thin Films on Thermoplastic Central Venous Catheters: Mechanical, Microscopical and Thermal Analyses
Authors: Marchiori Gregorio , Gambardella Alessandro , Berni Matteo , Bellucci Devis , Cassiolas Giorgio , Cannillo Valeria
Published: October 2020

In this work, an interdisciplinary approach was employed to investigate the impact on thermoplastic catheters from the deposition of a thin (180 nm), metallic silver film by a pulsed ablation technique. Our characterization firstly involved tensile and bending tests, each one accompanied by finite element modeling aiming to elucidate the contributions resulting from bulk and coating to the device’s mechanical behavior. The morphological assessment of the surface before and after the deposition was performed by atomic force microscopy, specifically implemented to visualize the nanostructured character of the film surface and the extent to which the polymer was modified by the deposition process, focusing on coating delamination due to tensile stress. Finally, thermogravimetric–differential thermal analysis was carried out to evaluate whether silver deposition has affected the physiochemical structure of the polymer matrix. Our results establish that the deposition does not significantly alter the physical and chemical properties of the device. The presented characterization sets a useful precedent for elucidating how structural properties of polymeric materials may change after coating by electronic ablation techniques, highlighting the importance of employing a comprehensive approach for clarifying the effects of additive manufacturing on medical devices.
Structural and Thermodynamic Peculiarities of Core-Shell Particles at Fluid Interfaces from Triangular Lattice Models
Authors: Grishina Vera , Vikhrenko Vyacheslav , Ciach Alina
Published: October 2020

A triangular lattice model for pattern formation by core-shell particles at fluid interfaces is introduced and studied for the particle to core diameter ratio equal to 3. Repulsion for overlapping shells and attraction at larger distances due to capillary forces are assumed. Ground states and thermodynamic properties are determined analytically and by Monte Carlo simulations for soft outer- and stiffer inner shells, with different decay rates of the interparticle repulsion. We find that thermodynamic properties are qualitatively the same for slow and for fast decay of the repulsive potential, but the ordered phases are stable for temperature ranges, depending strongly on the shape of the repulsive potential. More importantly, there are two types of patterns formed for fixed chemical potential—one for a slow and another one for a fast decay of the repulsion at small distances. In the first case, two different patterns—for example clusters or stripes—occur with the same probability for some range of the chemical potential. For a fixed concentration, an interface is formed between two ordered phases with the closest concentration, and the surface tension takes the same value for all stable interfaces. In the case of degeneracy, a stable interface cannot be formed for one out of four combinations of the coexisting phases, because of a larger surface tension. Our results show that by tuning the architecture of a thick polymeric shell, many different patterns can be obtained for a sufficiently low temperature.
Uncertainty Relation for Errors Focusing on General POVM Measurements with an Example of Two-State Quantum Systems
Authors: Lee Jaeha , Tsutsui Izumi
Published: October 2020

A novel uncertainty relation for errors of general quantum measurement is presented. The new relation, which is presented in geometric terms for maps representing measurement, is completely operational and can be related directly to tangible measurement outcomes. The relation violates the naïve bound ℏ/2 for the position-momentum measurement, whilst nevertheless respecting Heisenberg’s philosophy of the uncertainty principle. The standard Kennard–Robertson uncertainty relation for state preparations expressed by standard deviations arises as a corollary to its special non-informative case. For the measurement on two-state quantum systems, the relation is found to offer virtually the tightest bound possible; the equality of the relation holds for the measurement performed over every pure state. The Ozawa relation for errors of quantum measurements will also be examined in this regard. In this paper, the Kolmogorovian measure-theoretic formalism of probability—which allows for the representation of quantum measurements by positive-operator valued measures (POVMs)—is given special attention, in regard to which some of the measure-theory specific facts are remarked along the exposition as appropriate.
Savior: A Reliable Fault Resilient Router Architecture for Network-on-Chip
Authors: Hussain Ayaz , Irfan Muhammad , Baloch Naveed Khan , Draz Umar , Ali Tariq , Glowacz Adam , Dunai Larisa , Antonino-Daviu Jose
Published: October 2020

The router plays an important role in communication among different processing cores in on-chip networks. Technology scaling on one hand has enabled the designers to integrate multiple processing components on a single chip; on the other hand, it becomes the reason for faults. A generic router consists of the buffers and pipeline stages. A single fault may result in an undesirable situation of degraded performance or a whole chip may stop working. Therefore, it is necessary to provide permanent fault tolerance to all the components of the router. In this paper, we propose a mechanism that can tolerate permanent faults that occur in the router. We exploit the fault-tolerant techniques of resource sharing and paring between components for the input port unit and routing computation (RC) unit, the resource borrowing for virtual channel allocator (VA) and multiple paths for switch allocator (SA) and crossbar (XB). The experimental results and analysis show that the proposed mechanism enhances the reliability of the router architecture towards permanent faults at the cost of 29% area overhead. The proposed router architecture achieves the highest Silicon Protection Factor (SPF) metric, which is 24.8 as compared to the state-of-the-art fault-tolerant architectures. It incurs an increase in latency for SPLASH2 and PARSEC benchmark traffics, which is minimal as compared to the baseline router.
Properties of Vacuum Arcs Generated by Switching RMF Contacts at Different Ignition Positions
Authors: Gortschakow Sergey , Franke Steffen , Methling Ralf , Gonzalez Diego , Lawall Andreas , Taylor Erik D. , Graskowski Frank
Published: October 2020

The influence of initiation behavior of the drawn arc on the arc motion, on arc characteristics during the active phase, as well as on the post-arc parameters, was studied. The study was focused on arc dynamics, determination of the anode surface temperature after current interruption, and diagnostics of metal vapor density after current zero crossing. Different optical diagnostics, namely high-speed camera video enhanced by narrow-band optical filters, near infrared spectroscopy, and optical absorption spectroscopy was applied. The initiation behavior of the drawn arc had a clear influence on arc parameters. Higher local electrode temperature occurs in case of the electrodes with ignition point near the outer electrode boundary. This further causes an enhanced density of chromium vapor, even in cases with lower arc duration. The results of this study are important for design development of switching RMF contacts for future green energy applications.
Legal Pathways to Coal Phase-Out in Italy in 2025
Authors: Fermeglia Matteo , Bevilacqua Paolo , Cafaro Claudia , Ceci Paolo , Fardelli Antonio
Published: October 2020

This contribution aims to provide an in-depth outlook of the phase-out of coal-fired energy generation in Italy. In particular, this article analyzes the state-of-the-art with regard to both the current role of coal generation and the performance of the main legal and regulatory tools as implemented in Italy thus far to ensure the closure of all coal power plants by 2025 as announced in the Italian National Climate and Energy Plan. Based on existing data and scenarios on both electricity production and demand trends, this article unfolds the marginal role played by coal-fired generation in the Italian energy mix. In addition, this paper aims to highlight the outstanding technical uncertainties and regulatory hurdles in the way towards de-carbonization of energy generation in Italy. This paper argues that several remarkable improvements are needed in order to avoid over-generation (especially through natural gas), to upscale the penetration of renewable energy sources, and develop the necessary infrastructures to adequately deliver on the full phasing-out of coal within the expected timeframes.
Sensitivity Based Order Reduction of a Chemical Membrane Degradation Model for Low-Temperature Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells
Authors: Kregar Ambrož , Frühwirt Philipp , Ritzberger Daniel , Jakubek Stefan , Katrašnik Tomaž , Gescheidt Georg
Published: October 2020

The chemical degradation of the perfluorinated sulfonic acid (PFSA) ion-exchange membrane as a result of an attack from a radical species, originating as a by-product of the oxygen reduction reaction, represents a significant limiting factor in a wider adoption of low-temperature proton exchange membrane fuel cells (LT-PEMFCs). The efficient mathematical modeling of these processes is therefore a crucial step in the further development of proton exchange membrane fuel cells. Starting with an extensive kinetic modeling framework, describing the whole range of chemical processes leading to the membrane degradation, we use the mathematical method of sensitivity analysis to systematically reduce the number of both chemical species and reactions needed to efficiently and accurately describe the chemical degradation of the membrane. The analysis suggests the elimination of chemical reactions among the radical species, which is supported by the physicochemical consideration of the modeled reactions, while the degradation of Nafion backbone can be significantly simplified by lumping several individual species concentrations. The resulting reduced model features only 12 species coupled by 8 chemical reactions, compared to 19 species coupled by 23 reactions in the original model. The time complexity of the model, analyzed on the basis of its stiffness, however, is not significantly improved in the process. Nevertheless, the significant reduction in the model system size and number of parameters represents an important step in the development of a computationally efficient coupled model of various fuel cell degradation processes. Additionally, the demonstrated application of sensitivity analysis method shows a great potential for further use in the optimization of models of operation and degradation of fuel cell components.
Power Exchange Prices: Comparison of Volatility in European Markets
Authors: Božić Zorana , Dobromirov Dušan , Arsić Jovana , Radišić Mladen , Ślusarczyk Beata
Published: October 2020

Power exchanges in Europe have been operating since the 1990s, while in the region of Southeast Europe (SEE) they are only a few years old. Volatility is considered to be one of the indicators that define the level of market development. In this paper, the authors examine 15 power markets in Europe with the novelty of special attention dedicated to the SEE markets, in terms of their volatility. The aim of this paper is to investigate volatility on SEE markets, and their correlation with developed European markets. Power price volatility is measured by price velocity concepts, the daily velocity based on daily/monthly/quarterly/yearly and overall average power prices. The outcomes reveal that power price volatility is higher in new SEE markets than in more mature European markets. The least volatile market is the Greek pool, followed by Switzerland and Austria. The Bulgarian market is the most volatile, followed by that of Romania, and these markets are nearly twice as volatile as the ones previously mentioned. A correlation matrix is carried out and confirms positive correlation between all markets in terms of their average prices. However, a correlation matrix of measured volatilities depicts a negative correlation, in some cases, between SEE and Central European (CE) markets.
Lead Complexation by Humic Acids and Their Analogs: A Voltammetric Study
Authors: Steinberg Spencer , Hodge Vernon
Published: October 2020

Differential pulse polarography (DPP) was used to assess the interaction of Pb2+ with various humic acid analogs and several humic acids. DPP analysis demonstrated that the reduction peak maximum (Ep) for Pb2+ shifted to more negative values in the presence of humic acids and humic acid analogs. The observed Ep for Pb2+ in the presence of humic acids and humic acid analogs is influenced by ligand concentration, solution pH and Pb2+ concentration. Shifts in the Ep for Pb2+ are related to the reduction potential and can be rationalized using the Lingane equation.
Paranoid Transformer: Reading Narrative of Madness as Computational Approach to Creativity
Authors: Agafonova Yana , Tikhonov Alexey , Yamshchikov Ivan P.
Published: October 2020

This paper revisits the receptive theory in the context of computational creativity. It presents a case study of a Paranoid Transformer—a fully autonomous text generation engine with raw output that could be read as the narrative of a mad digital persona without any additional human post-filtering. We describe technical details of the generative system, provide examples of output, and discuss the impact of receptive theory, chance discovery, and simulation of fringe mental state on the understanding of computational creativity.
Atlas of Shipwrecks in Inner Ionian Sea (Greece): A Remote Sensing Approach
Authors: Geraga Maria , Christodoulou Dimitris , Eleftherakis Dimitrios , Papatheodorou George , Fakiris Elias , Dimas Xenophon , Georgiou Nikos , Kordella Stavroula , Prevenios Michalis , Iatrou Margarita , Zoura Despina , Kekebanou Sofia , Sotiropoulos Makis , Ferentinos George
Published: October 2020

Underwater cultural heritage (UCH) sites constitute an important part of the overall cultural heritage both nationally and globally as they carry cultural, environmental, scientific, technological, political, economic and social viewpoints. UCH includes not only submerged sites and buildings, but also vessels and aircrafts. The Inner Ionian Sea in Greece is a place rich in a significant number of shipwrecks with a timespan ranging from ancient times right through to the 20th century. The results herein present the study of ancient, World War I (WWI), World War II (WWII) and more recent shipwrecks in the inner Ionian Sea. A total of 11 out of 36 known shipwrecks in the area have been systematically studied using marine remote sensing and ground truthing techniques. The marine remote sensing sensors include: side scan sonars, sub-bottom profilers and multi-beam echo-sounders. At each wreck site, the condition of the wreck, the debris field and man-made activities were determined based mainly on acoustic data. The history of each wreck is also briefly documented. The conclusion of the current research work is that there is an immediate need for a shipwreck protection framework in the Inner Ionian Sea; wrecks included in this work are a highly important part of UCH and man-made activities (e.g., fishing) threaten their integrity.
Timing of Entry into Paid Employment, Adverse Physical Work Exposures and Health: The Young Helsinki Health Study
Authors: Lallukka Tea , Shiri Rahman , Pietiläinen Olli , Kausto Johanna , Sumanen Hilla , Halonen Jaana I. , Lahelma Eero , Rahkonen Ossi , Mänty Minna , Kouvonen Anne
Published: October 2020

It is not well known how the timing of entry into paid employment and physical work exposures contribute to different health outcomes in young employees. Thus, we determined the associations of age at entry into paid employment and physical work exposures with general and mental health in young employees and determined whether associations differ by behavior-related risk factors. Data were collected via online and mailed surveys in autumn 2017 from employees of the City of Helsinki aged 18–39 years (n = 5897; 4630 women and 1267 men, response rate 51.5%). Surveys comprised measures of age at entry into paid employment, seven working conditions, behavior-related risk factors and health outcomes (self-rated health [SRH] and common mental disorders [CMD] as generic indicators of physical and mental health). Logistic regression analysis was used. After full adjustment, age at entry was not associated with the health outcomes; however, in additional analyses, younger age at first employment was associated with smoking and obesity (OR 3.00, 95% CI 2.34–3.85 and 1.67, 95% CI 1.32–2.11 for those started working at age of ≤18 years, respectively). Of the working conditions, sitting and standing were positively associated with poor SRH and CMD and uncomfortable working postures with CMD. Working conditions were broadly similarly associated with health outcomes among those with and without behavior-related risk factors. Although we found little support for modification by behavior-related risk factors, overweight, obesity and smoking were associated with poor SRH and binge drinking and smoking with CMD. Additionally, moderate and high levels of leisure-time physical activity were inversely associated with poor SRH. In conclusion, early entry into paid employment appears not to associate to immediate poorer health in young employees, although it was associated with smoking and obesity even after full adjustment. Exposure to physically heavy work and uncomfortable working postures may increase the risk of adverse health outcomes.
The Association between Influenza Vaccination and the Risk of SARS-CoV-2 Infection, Severe Illness, and Death: A Systematic Review of the Literature
Authors: Del Riccio Marco , Lorini Chiara , Bonaccorsi Guglielmo , Paget John , Caini Saverio
Published: October 2020

We reviewed the association between seasonal influenza vaccination and the risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection or complicated illness or poor outcome (e.g., severe disease, need for hospitalization or ventilatory support, or death) among COVID-19 patients. None of the studies that were reviewed (n = 12) found a significant increase in the risk of infection or in the illness severity or lethality, and some reported significantly inverse associations. Our findings support measures aimed at raising influenza vaccination coverage in the coming months.
A Feasibility Study of Map-Based Dashboard for Spatiotemporal Knowledge Acquisition and Analysis
Authors: Zuo Chenyu , Ding Linfang , Meng Liqiu
Published: October 2020

Map-based dashboards are among the most popular tools that support the viewing and understanding of a large amount of geo-data with complex relations. In spite of many existing design examples, little is known about their impacts on users and whether they match the information demand and expectations of target users. The authors first designed a novel map-based dashboard to support their target users’ spatiotemporal knowledge acquisition and analysis, and then conducted an experiment to assess the feasibility of the proposed dashboard. The experiment consists of eye-tracking, benchmark tasks, and interviews. A total of 40 participants were recruited for the experiment. The results have verified the effectiveness and efficiency of the proposed map-based dashboard in supporting the given tasks. At the same time, the experiment has revealed a number of aspects for improvement related to the layout design, the labeling of multiple panels and the integration of visual analytical elements in map-based dashboards, as well as future user studies.
Antitumor Activity of the Cardiac Glycoside αlDiginoside by Modulating Mcl-1 in Human Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma Cells
Authors: Weng Jing-Ru , Lin Wei-Yu , Bai Li-Yuan , Hu Jing-Lan , Feng Chia-Hsien
Published: October 2020

We recently isolated a cardiac glycoside (CG), αldiginoside, from an indigenous plant in Taiwan, which exhibits potent tumor-suppressive efficacy in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) cell lines (SCC2095 and SCC4, IC50 < 0.2 µM; 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assays). Here, we report that αldiginoside caused Sphase arrest and apoptosis, through the inhibition of a series of signaling pathways, including those mediated by cyclin E, phospho-CDC25C (p-CDC25C), and janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription (JAK/STAT)3. αldiginoside induced apoptosis, as indicated by caspase activation and poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) cleavage. Equally important, αldiginoside reduced Mcl-1 expression through protein degradation, and overexpression of Mcl-1 partially protected SCC2095 cells from αldiginoside’s cytotoxicity. Taken together, these data suggest the translational potential of αldiginoside to foster new therapeutic strategies for OSCC treatment.
Crystal Structure and Inhibitor Identifications Reveal Targeting Opportunity for the Atypical MAPK Kinase ERK3
Authors: Schröder Martin , Filippakopoulos Panagis , Schwalm Martin P. , Ferrer Carla A. , Drewry David H. , Knapp Stefan , Chaikuad Apirat
Published: October 2020

Extracellular signal-regulated kinase 3 (ERK3), known also as mitogen-activated protein kinase 6 (MAPK6), is an atypical member of MAPK kinase family, which has been poorly studied. Little is known regarding its function in biological processes, yet this atypical kinase has been suggested to play important roles in the migration and invasiveness of certain cancers. The lack of tools, such as a selective inhibitor, hampers the study of ERK3 biology. Here, we report the crystal structure of the kinase domain of this atypical MAPK kinase, providing molecular insights into its distinct ATP binding pocket compared to the classical MAPK ERK2, explaining differences in their inhibitor binding properties. Medium-scale small molecule screening identified a number of inhibitors, several of which unexpectedly exhibited remarkably high inhibitory potencies. The crystal structure of CLK1 in complex with CAF052, one of the most potent inhibitors identified for ERK3, revealed typical type-I binding mode of the inhibitor, which by structural comparison could likely be maintained in ERK3. Together with the presented structural insights, these diverse chemical scaffolds displaying both reversible and irreversible modes of action, will serve as a starting point for the development of selective inhibitors for ERK3, which will be beneficial for elucidating the important functions of this understudied kinase.