bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Study of Soil Characteristics of Road damages in Jeram, Kuala Selangor
Authors: Intan Najiha A S , Doh S I
Published: February 2021

The main purpose of this research work is to identify the classification and strength of soil does it affected the road damages in Jeram, Kuala Selangor. The most factors influencing road damages in Jeram is an overloading vehicle using the main roads. To achieve the objectives of this paper soil laboratory testing has been done in justify the content of peat soil. Location of study can be categorizing as a plantation soil as there are a majority of land has been use in agricultural sector which are oil palm tree plantation. Besides, oil palm plantation suitable for peat soil land which has less soil strength. Sample of soil were collected in Jeram and bring it to soil mechanics and geotechnical laboratory in UMP. Few tests were being soil classification, particle size distribution, moisture content, density, specific gravity, Atterberg limit and direct shear test. Soil sample from three different roads were chosen which are Jalan Pantai Jeram, Jalan Simpang 3 Jeram and Jalan Tambak Tengah. The road has different criteria from the surface damages which no damages occur, less damage and most damages on road. From the data collected, Jalan Simpang 3 Jeram results the most damages road and the less strength of soil due to high content of peat soil. The soils criteria are located near trench and in the area of oil palm plantation. It also is the main road were used to collect the plantation yield to the factory.
Effect of Fuel Additives (Ethanol) on the Engine Performance Emissions of Single Cylinder Diesel Engine Fueled with Palm Oil Methyl Ester (PME) (B20)
Authors: Rahim Asiah Ab. , Abdullah Nik Rosli , Mazlan Mohamad Hafsham , Sharudin Hazim , Jalaludin Helmisyah Ahmad
Published: February 2021

Transport technology development is a major issue leading to increase the number of vehicles, hence increase emissions and contributing to global warming. In this work the effect of fuel additives (ethanol) on the engine performance and emissions of single cylinder diesel engine fueled with palm oil methyl ester (PME) (B20) were investigated. The tests were performed by varying the engine speed between 2700, 3100 and 3500 rpm with intervals 400 rpm while maintaining the engine load at 50% of rated load. In this study, different fuels which is B0 (100% Pure diesel), B20 (20% PME), E5 (20% PME + 5ml ethanol), E10 (20% PME + 10ml ethanol) and E15 (20% PME + 15ml ethanol) were used. The result indicated that, average brake specific fuel consumption (BSFC) and Brake thermal efficiency (BTE) for usage of E5, E10 and E15 were increased compare with B0 and B20. Meanwhile, average value results of Carbon Monoxide (CO) and Unburned Hydrocarbon (UHC) for E5 was lowered compare to PME (B20). The addition of ethanol with PME (B20) fuel in single cylinder diesel engine can help in controlling exhaust emission and significantly improve engine fuel consumption.
Enhancement of the heat transfer in radiator with louvered fin by using Graphene-based hybrid nanofluids
Authors: Sandhya M , Ramasamy D , Sudhakar K , Kadirgama K , Harun W S W
Published: February 2021

Newly developed hybrid nanofluids can enhance heat transfer performance of various automotive appliances. Improved thermophysical properties of this hybrid nanoparticles when used as coolants will enhance the effectiveness of the car radiators with improved engine cooling system. The present study involves the simulation-based analysis of thermal enhancement of Graphene based Hybrid Nanofluids in a Car radiator. System analysis is performed considering single tube component in the radiator for pattern development. CFD analysis is conducted using ANSYS FLUENT module. Graphene/Crystal Nanocellulose hybrid (Graphene + CNC) nanoparticles are suspended in water & ethylene glycol base fluids (40:60) at 0.01%,0.05%,0.1% &0.2 % volume concentration considering at 3-7 LPM inlet mass flow rate. The effect of various volume concentration, inlet temperature and flow rate on Pressure, Enthalpy, Entropy, Heat transfer coefficient, and Heat transfer rate has been examined by simulation. The results indicate that when using a Louvered fin in a radiator, Maximum enhancement of 60% in heat transfer rate, 53% increase of heat transfer coefficient, 65% increase in pressure are achieved for Graphene with CNC hybrid nanofluids when compared with Graphene based nanofluids. Using this type of hybrid coolants along with louvered fin in radiator can significantly improve the heat transfer performance of radiators.
Engine Emissions Analysis of Emulsified Fuel of Different Blend Ratios
Authors: Hassan Hazman Abu , Hagos Ftwi Y , Kadarohman Asep , Sardjono R E , Khoerunnisa Fitri , Zhang Bo , Jiang X X
Published: February 2021

Diesel engines are widely used because of their fuel efficiency in producing a higher mechanical energy ratio compared to gasoline engines. The current study is an extension of these efforts where diesel and biodiesel blend are modified to emulsify and oxygenate through water and alcohol to reduce NOx emissions from the exhaust. Biodiesel on the other hand, has the advantage of being sulfur-free, which reduces the emission of smoke and particulate matters but unfortunately increases NOx emissions. Meanwhile, emulsion fuel is found to lower the temperature of the cylinder during combustion and thus, reduce the release of NOx gas. The oxygenated fuels are tested for their emission behaviors in a four-stroke, single cylinder, water cooled, and direct fuel injection engine evaluated at a speed of 1200 rpm until 2400 rpm with the engine load varied at 0%, 50% and 100%. The method of fuel oxygenation and their effect on the concentration of NOx are discussed. The results have demonstrated a significant reduction in the NOx emission with an increase in the fraction ratio of palm oil biodiesel. The competition to produce high-performance and environmentally friendly fuels has made emulsion fuel and biodiesel renewable fuels believed to be new alternative fuels that emit very little NOx emissions into the atmosphere.
Secondary Metabolites from Colletotrichum phyllanthi, an Endophytic Fungi from Stem of Physalis peruviana and Evaluation of Media Culture
Authors: Pratiwi Amelinda , Hermawati Elvira , Syah Yana Maolana
Published: February 2021

Endophytic fungi is a microorganism that grows in plant tissue without giving any negative effect directly against its host. Phytochemistry studies from endophytic fungi have been widely reported and showed that the metabolites have excellent activities. The exploration of secondary metabolites from endophytic fungi of Physalis peruviana well known as a “cecendet” in Indonesia has never been reported before. Therefore, this research aims to isolate the secondary metabolites of the endophytic fungi from stem of P. peruviana. Five known compounds were isolated from MeOH and EtOAc extract of endophytic fungi Colletotrichum phyllanthi resulted two steroid compounds, ergosterol (1), and ergosterol peroxide (2), from MeOH extract of C. phyllanthi mycelia, and from EtOAc extract of C. phyllanthi. The metabolites production of C. phyllanthi was influenced with composition of media cultures. In this research endophytic fungi was cultivated using Potato Dextrose Broth (PDB) and Tryptic Soy Broth (TSB) media. Two metabolites including tyrosol (3), and uridine (4) were produced by C. phyllanthi through PDB, and another compound that is 1-chloronaphtalene-2-ol (5) was isolated from endophytic fungi while treated by fermentation in TSB. Structure elucidation was achieved using spectroscopic data including 1D, 2D NMR and comparison with reported data. Our results provide a scientific rationale for further explorations into metabolites from endophytic fungi of P. peruviana.
Investigation on stability of TiO2-SiO2 nanofluids with ratio (70:30) in W/EG mixture (60:40)
Authors: Fikri M A , Faizal W M , Adli H K , Bo Z , Jiang X X , Ramadhan A I
Published: February 2021

Nowadays, thermal energy is essential to the protection of the renewable technology ecosystem in the world. Most researchers study nanofluid related to increased demand for thermal energy, which includes the heating and cooling process. The goal of this analysis was therefore to determine the stability of TiO2-SiO2 nanofluids (70:30) suspended in W/EG (60:40). This study will help researchers gain insight into the impact of nanoparticle stability on hybrid nanofluids, which will enable researchers to add nanoparticles to solar collector. TiO2-SiO2 nanofluids with ratio 70:30 was prepared using a one-step process at a volume concentration of 0.3, 0.5, 0.7, and 1.0%. Two of nanoparticles are used, namely TiO2 and SiO2, and distributed in the base W/EG mixture (60:40). The stability investigation of hybrid nanofluids in this research is performed by UV-Vis, visual sedimentation. The findings from this investigation is stability analysis of hybrid nanofluids by UV-Vis process, which is stable up to 10 days after preparation with 2-hour sonication time. For concentration ratio of 1.0% of the volume concentration of hybrid nanofluids. The optimal absorbance value is 2.3 after 24 hours, which is the ideal consistency of the fluid. Concentrations of 0.3, 0.5 and 0.7% begin to decrease after 24 h and continue to decrease until 10 days (240 h).
Effect of n-Butanol Blends on Engine Performance and Exhaust Emission of Compression Ignition Engine Fuelled with Diesel-Palm Oil Methyl Ester (B20)
Authors: Ahmad Mohd Azrul , Abdullah Nik Rosli , Zawawi Zaky Zuhairi , Rahim Asiah Ab , Kadir Hasannuddin Abdul
Published: February 2021

The study aims to evaluate the performance and emission characteristic in a compression ignition engine of conventional diesel fuel-biodiesel blends with different percentage of fuel additive n-butanol. The experiment was operated at a constant engine load (50% throttle condition) with different engine speed (2700, 3100, 3500 rpm). A blend of biodiesel and diesel fuel known as B20 (20% palm oil methyl ester and 80% diesel in volume) was prepared, and then n-butanol was added to B20 at a volume of 5ml, 10ml and 15ml (denote as B20+Bu5, B20+Bu10 and B20+Bu15, respectively) and the tested fuel samples were compared with diesel fuel and diesel-biodiesel (B20). The experimental results show that when the proportion of n-butanol was increased in B20 blends, kinematic viscosity was larger while calorific value was smaller than those of the neat diesel. Although n-butanol have some negative impacts on engine performance parameters, its generally positively affect exhaust emission parameters compared to diesel fuel. According to engine performance and exhaust emission test result of n-butanol fuel blends with B20 blends, average values of brake thermal efficiency (10.19%, 7.58% and 4.29%), carbon monoxide (21.75%, 17.06% and 11.28%), hydrocarbon (18.51%, 15.68% and 12.13%) are lower, while brake specific fuel consumption (BSFC) (27.48%, 45.37% and 59.20%) are higher and carbon dioxide (CO2) and oxides of nitrogen (NOx) are comparable than those of diesel fuel.
Experimental Investigation on the Optical and Stability of Aqueous Ethylene Glycol/Mxene as a Promising Nanofluid for Solar Energy Harvesting
Authors: Kadirgama K , Samylingam L , Aslfattahi Navid , Samykano M , Ramasamy D , Saidur R
Published: February 2021

In this research work, emerged nanomaterial (MXene) and Ethylene Glycol (EG) as base fluid is used to formulate a homogenous mixture of nanofluid with promising optical properties. Amphiphilic structure of ethylene glycol allows the dispersion of water and MXene nanoflakes appropriately. The studied nanofluids are prepared with a mixture of 70 % of EG and 30% of deionized water. The prepared aqueous EG is mixed with Ti3C2 nanoflakes with three different loading concentrations of 0.02, 0.05, and 0.1 wt.%. The Fourier Transform Infrared spectrum (FTIR) of the aqueous EG/MXene nanofluids is measured using a Perkin Elmer Spectrum Two-Universal ATR. Particle analyzer is used to measure the stability of the prepared nanofluids. The experimentally achieved data represents the highest stability with mean zeta potential value of -92.6 mV for aqueous EG/MXene with a loading concentration of 0.02 wt.%. Optical absorbance measurements are performed using Ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) spectroscopy. Perkin Elmer Lambda 750 is used to acquire spectra. The result of the observation indicates that the solution of nanofluid with a loading concentration of 0.1 wt. % of Ti3C2 exhibits the highest peak magnitude of light absorbance among the rest of the three samples. This is because of the more mass concentration value of that nanofluid solution, which is proportional to light absorption. Due to the hydrophilic nature of the utilized nanomaterial and base fluid, there is an excellent probability for them to form a potential homogenous mixture of nanofluid, which might accomplish high optical performance in terms of applying at the solar system.
Implementation of the UTAUT Model to Understand the Technology Adoption of MOOC at Public Universities
Authors: Haron Hafiza , Hussin Supyan , Yusof Ahmad Rizal Mohd , Samad Hafiza , Yusof Hafidzan
Published: February 2021

MOOC is a national agenda in the institutions as it is addressed in the 11th Malaysian Plan, the National Economic Model, Economic Transformation Programme and the Malaysian Education Blueprint. Recently, have witnessed the development of massive open online courses (MOOCs) as a learning trend in the field of open distance education and online learning. As it is considering new technology for us, a research towards its acceptance is essential. This study examines the adoption of MOOC deployment among students at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM). The survey was used in this research where data were collected from 400 respondents and then analysed using Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM). The findings were obtained based on Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) model. The result shows that performance expectancy, effort expectancy, social influence and facilitating condition have influenced the respondents to use MOOC in their learning. This research exposed that the UTAUT factors implemented in this study have a significant effect to behavioural intention in order students use MOOC technology. It illustrates the positive impact of these technologies and beneficial to understand the MOOC adoption for all students, especially at public universities and in the area of online learning perspective.
Hole Introduction Effect on The E-Glass WR 185 Fibre Reinforcement Polyester
Authors: Ilhamdi  , Hidayat D , Sepriyani D E
Published: February 2021

Challenge to use a light structural material for aero vehicle could be answered by fibre reinforced polymer composite. This composite has high ratio of strength to weight. In application this composite should be in mechanical assembling such as bolt. So that, investigation of hole introduction on the composite integrity and behaviours are needed. In this study, E-glass WR 185 fibres used as reinforcement in polyester BQIN EX 157 matrix. The composite made by hand lay-up methods; in which 13 layers of E-glass fibres were laminated one by one layer with polyester resin. After dried up, composite was cut off to made specimen for density, tensile and compression test. Some of tensile and compression specimens were drilled (marked as “open hole specimen”) in their centre. The result showed density of 1.12 g/cm3, maximum strength of 178 MPa (tensile) and 130 MPa (compressive). Introducing an open hole reduced strength to 119 MPa (tensile, decreased ∼33%), and to 112 MPa (compressive, ∼14%). Reducing strength is well confirmed with change of failure type; from lateral at grip top (LAT) to lateral gage middle (LGM). LGM of the open hole specimen means crack starting from the hole to both of lateral direction.
Numerical Study on Various Position of Multiple Water Tanks toward Earthquake on High-rise Building
Authors: Ishak Izzul Syazwan , Hamid Norhayati Abdul , Amin Norliyati Mohd
Published: February 2021

Earthquake can cause many problems to the structures, which lead to building collapse and may takes humans life. One of the effort to reduce the structural response is by introduce the damping system to the buildings where the energy of the system is slowly reduced until the vibration of the system is totally eliminated and the system is brought to rest. Several techniques are available nowadays, however passive control system has advantage in term of cost especially in Malaysia where the earthquake is not the major threat like in Japan but it is good to tune existing water tank to became a passive damper where it is there went situation needed. The objective of the present paper is to analyse the practicality of implementing multiple water tank as passive Multiple Tuned Liquid Damper and finding the best position of water tanks, which would reduce peak response of the structure subjected to seismic forces using SAP2000. 15 multi-storey concrete structure attached with five water tanks with 3 different situation of water tanks location under consideration. In order to study the depth ratio parameter, the water level was varies for each situation such as ¼ tank for all water tanks, half tanks for all water tanks and ¾ tank for all water tanks. The results shows that Position 2 filled with ¾ water has highest significant reduction in term of structural displacement which is 12.6mm compare to other water tanks positions and water level.
Axial Crush Response of Aluminium Square Tube with Origami Patterns
Authors: Ghani Amir Radzi Ab , Zulfikry M Amirul Syafiq , Ramly Ramzyzan , Othman Mohd Zaid
Published: February 2021

Thin-walled square tubes are widely used as impact energy absorber in automotive structures due to their ease of fabrication and installation, high energy absorption capacity in terms of progressive plastic deformation and long stroke. However, the main drawback of square tube is its high initial peak force during the initial stage of crushing. An origami pattern on the faces of the tube is proposed to reduce the high initial peak force and increase the energy absorption of the tube. Static and dynamic axial crushing were performed using finite element analysis to determine the initial peak force (IPF), crush force efficiency (CFE) and plastic specific energy absorption (SEA) of tubes with origami pattern. The results of simulations were validated by experimental data. Then, various combinations of origami patterns were studied using finite element simulation only. It was found that the origami pattern significantly enhanced the tubes crush performance. Comparison between plain square tube and tubes with various origami patterns was carried out and it was found that the origami patterns reduced the initial peak force and increased the crush force efficiency for both static and dynamic loading conditions.
The Development of a Web-based Credit Transfer Application (CTA) for Higher Academic Institution: From Feasibility Study to Testing Phase
Authors: Azizan N , Isa R , Farzana F , Aziz A , Amiruddin M
Published: February 2021

Credit transfer is the process of transferring course credits of the subject to another programme or another institution to support and promote students’ flexibility in their study by reducing number of courses or subjects required to complete their studies. Currently, the enrolment of new degree students in Kolej Universiti Poly-Tech MARA Kuala Lumpur (KUPTMKL) is using the manual application forms to apply the subject credit transfer. Understandably, the manual process is tedious and students are pruned to make mistake. The objective of this paper is to develop a web-based Credit Transfer Application system (CTA) for Faculty of Computing and Multimedia (FCOM) of KUPTMKL that can be used for the FCOM degree programme Coordinator and student in managing the application of credit transfer with several security applications and mechanisms such as random password, restriction of unsupported file format and database security. The CTA is developed using Agile methodology and Visual Studio Code is used to build the CTA as the code editor to write the programming languages such as Hypertext Markup Language (HTML), Cascading Style Sheets (CSS), Hypertext Pre-processor (PHP) and XAMMP to manage the MySQL databases. In the development of the CTA system, the feasibility study is performed and three methods are used namely, observation, conducting interviews and delivering questionnaires. Based on 100 respondents of FCOM degree students and 5 Coordinators, the result shows more than 95 percent of evidence indicates that the new system developed is able to store, display and manage all information successfully and performed efficiently compared to manual method. CTA can be easily accessed by students and management via the Web.
Stress Analysis on Cracking Plate Structure For Reducing Stress Concentration
Authors: Huda F , Safrudin R A , Utomo S , Rusli M
Published: February 2021

The structures which are subjected to load experience stress. If there is no discontinuity (defect), the stress is distributed in a particular pattern based on the type of stress. The crack is one defect that is frequently found in the plate structure, which causes stress concentration factor. In this paper, the treatments to reduce concentration factors are applied to plate structures under cracked conditions to investigate the treatment effect to reduce the stress concentration. For that purpose, the low-cost strain indicator using strain gauge integrated with Arduino Uno and computer is constructed to measure the stress distribution on cantilever aluminum plate in the normal conditions, crack, and crack with treatment. The treatments to reduce the stress concentration factor are applied in the form of the stop drill hole and additional hole. The result shows that the given treatment could reduce the stress concentration factor by around 11%. Even though the reduction of the factor was not significant, the treatment could be a fast and straightforward solution in decreasing the stress on the cracking plate structure.
Effect of Forging Temperature on Biodegradable Mg-0.7%Ca Alloy Properties for Implant Application
Authors: Nanda Is Prima , Ali Zahran , Anuar Nur Farah Bazilah Wakhi , Idris Mohd Hasbullah , Arafat Andril
Published: February 2021

The potential of binary Mg-Ca alloy as biodegradable material is considerable interest in implant application among researchers. This research was conducted to investigate the effect of different forging temperature and forging speed on the hardness, microstructure and corrosion rate of Mg-0.7%Ca. The experiment was established by preparing the alloy sample with 0.7%wt calcium content. The forging process was carried out under four different temperature variations of 140°C, 180°C, 220°C, and 260°C (±10°C) with two different speed;25 and 45 strokes per minute (spm). The samples microstructure was examined by optical microscope and scanning electron microscope (SEM) equipped with energy dispersive X-ray (EDX). The mechanical properties of the forged samples were measured in its hardness and plastic deformation ability along with samples cold-working percentage. The corrosion rate was determined by performing the electrochemical test in simulated body fluid. This research found that increases of forging temperature and forging speed provide a higher rate of recrystallization and Mg2Ca compound precipitation results in greater hardness, increase deformation and reduce the cold-working percentage. However, the investigated factors still led to a high corrosion rate compared to a previous study and consequently, reduce the feasibility of the alloy in implant application for biodegradable material.
Filter Component Impact on EGS002-based Inverter Circuit Performances
Authors: Hardisal  , Candra R A , Ilham D N , Saragi D P , Harahap R , Suherman S , Yahya Z.
Published: February 2021

This paper examines filter component impact on inverter output. The inverter prototype was designed by using pulse width modulation (PWM) signal generated by EGS002 module, combined with DC voltage source, voltage regulator, MOSFET bridge and low pass filter. As component assembled, the output voltage quality is determined by the choice of filter components. Experiment shows that the calculated values may not suitable as soldering and connection imperfection may change component values. As adjustments were performed, filter components of 12.63 H and 6.5uf generated the finest sinusoidal output of 30.8 Vpp with frequency of 50,05 Hz.
Pattern Recognition of Facial Electromyography (FEMG) Signal for Aceh Language Speech using Naïve Bayes and Learning Vector Quantization (LVQ)
Authors: Putra Darma Setiawan , Weru Yuril Umbu Woza , Fardiansyah  , Fitriady  , Fakhruddin  , Yahya Z.
Published: February 2021

Facial electromyography is myoelectric signals that formed by human facial muscles. This signal can be acquired by attaching an electrode to the facial muscle that has been connected with an electromyography sensor. When human say certain words, the articulation muscles contract and facial electromyography signals appear in the muscles. This study aims to recognize patterns in facial electromyography signals by classifying signals using naïve bayes and learning vector quantization classifier. Feature extraction used one-dimensional discrete wavelet transforms. Wavelet transform type used wavelet daubechies2 level 5. The transformation produces a level 5 approximation coefficient called a5 and five detail coefficients called d1, d2, d3, d4, and d5. The result of this study show that the average classification accuracy for ho neuk jak sentence using naïve bayes and LVQ classifier was 62.5% and 92.5% respectively. The average classification accuracy for ja’ word using naïve bayes and LVQ classifier was 70% and 92.5% respectively. The average classification accuracy for ja’ wo sentence using naïve bayes and LVQ classifier was 52.5% and 90% respectively. The average classification accuracy for pane word using naïve bayes and LVQ was 70% and 90% respectively. The average classification accuracy for soe word using naïve bayes and LVQ classifier is 85% and 95% respectively. Thus, this study shows that when humans say the words, facial electromyography signals that appear on facial muscles difference for each subject.
Candlenut Shell Charcoal Yield in Every Chamber Produced by Candlenut Shell Carbonization Tool Using a Vertical Multi Chamber
Authors: Amri Asbahrul , Lovita Oktalia Triananda , Saputra Devi Satria , Ihsan  , Fitriani  , Arifan Mahdi , Saputra Miki , Yahya Z.
Published: February 2021

Candlenut shell contained organic compound, such as hemicelluloses, cellulose, and lignin which can be converted to solid, liquid, and gaseous products by thermochemical methods. One of the products is charcoal. One of the tool that can carbonize the candlenut shell is candlenut shell carbonization tool using a vertical multi chamber. The tool can carbonize candlenut shell without having any additional energy. Some variables from the tool has been identify from the previous research, such as its maximum capacity and process time, while its charcoal yield remains unknown. Therefore, this research is aimed to determine the charcoal yield that can be produced by candlenut shell carbonization tool using a vertical multi chamber. Three carbonization experiments were performed with 8 kg candlenut shell filled in every carbonization chamber (CC). The carbonization process temperature was measured for each chamber by using a thermocouple in order to know the effect of temperature toward charcoal yield. As the result, the average candlenut charcoal yield that can be produced by candlenut shell carbonization tool using a vertical multi chamber is 24.99 %. Every chamber was experiencing deferent capability in producing charcoal. CC3 is the highest charcoal yield chamber with 31.38 % and then followed by CC2 with 25.04 % and CC1 with 18.79 %. Based on temperature that experiencing by every chamber, it indicates that the temperature has a significant impact on charcoal yield. When the temperature high, the charcoal yield is low and also goes the same in contrary. Therefore, candlenut shell carbonization tool using a vertical multi chamber has capability in producing candlenut shell charcoal at 24.99 % yield.
Distillation Equipment Design of Nutmeg Oil using Hybrid System
Authors: Fitriadi Nuzuli , Balkhaya  , Saputra Edi , Othman S.
Published: February 2021

The quality of nutmeg oil is determined by the quality of the nutmeg and the technology that are used in the purification process of the nutmeg. For instance, the distillation process will affect the yield and the essential quality of the production of the nutmeg oil are involving the boiler material, cooling system, and boiler design. The existing nutmeg oil distillation system is time consuming because the operators are highly depending on the firewood and the operators who must monitor closely throughout the time during the nutmeg oil refining process. The new distillation process and technique is based on the new type of boiler that is made from Stainless steel 304 with a diameter of 70 cm, length 120 cm, and with the thickness of 3 mm. The Boiler also comes with a new control system to precisely control the pressure and temperature. Meanwhile, the excess pressure of the boiler is controlled by pressure safety valve because the boiler is designed to withstand up to 3 bar maximum pressure capacity. The kettle is made of 304 Stainless steel equipped with a multi-storey basket to polish and to enhance the circulation and vapour pressure inside the boiler. The condenser pipes are made from the aluminium pipe to maximise the condensation process of the raw nutmeg oil. For the new distillation process, the hybrid system is utilised, where the sources of firewood and electricity are used as the source of energy to operate the boiler. It can be seen that hybrid kettle design reaches 2.8 tons with a 30% operating-saving cost. On top of that distillation time can be shortened to 48 hours from the previous 72 hours. It is stated that this hybrid boiler system is much more effective when compared to conventional systems. Laboratory test results stated that the distilled nutmeg oil has fulfilled the Indonesian national standard.
Imaging and positioning through scattering media noninvasively by bi-directional exposure
Authors: Wang Xin , Hu Chenyu , Liu Honglin , Gao Jingjing , Han Shensheng
Published: February 2021

Speckle autocorrelation is a popular method for imaging through scattering media. Currently, most proposed methods in literature can only recognize the pattern and the relative movement ratio of a hidden object. Position and size quantification, the other content of imaging, is just as important as object recognition. Here, we propose a non-invasive method to estimate the axial position and size of a hidden object based on speckle autocorrelation imaging. A unique geometry setup for bi-directional exposure is applied to extract the position and size information. The image of the object can be reconstructed from the recorded speckle pattern via phase retrieval techniques. According to the geometry relationship, we calculate the size and axial position of the object, and further, obtain the lateral or axial displacements when the object is shifted in both simulation and experiment. This method opens a door for noninvasive imaging and positioning through scattering media, will impact the fields of biomedical imaging, object tracking, etc.
Spatial differentiation of optical beams using a resonant metal-dielectric-metal structure
Authors: Kashapov Artem I , Doskolovich Leonid L , Bezus Evgeni A , Bykov Dmitry A , Soifer Victor A
Published: February 2021

The development and investigation of novel photonic structures for the differentiation of optical signals, which are considered as promising building blocks for the optoelectronic information processing devices, has attracted considerable attention in recent years. In this tutorial, we discuss the optical computation of the spatial derivatives of the profile of a 2D optical beam impinging on a resonant diffractive structure. As a diffentiator example, we consider a simple resonant metal-dielectric-metal (MDM) structure consisting of an upper metal layer, a dielectric layer, and a metal substrate. Using the multiple wave interference model, we prove that the reflection coefficient of the MDM structure may strictly vanish, which enables obtaining high-quality differentiation. The rigorous numerical simulation results demonstrate the possibility of optical computation of the first derivative of the incident beam profile in the case of oblique incidence, and of the second derivative in the case of normal incidence. The presented results may find application in novel analog optical computing and optical information processing systems.
A new method for improving the forming quality in laser additive manufacturing process
Authors: Tang Xiaokang , Luo Kaiyu , Lu Jinzhong
Published: February 2021

The melt pool temperature plays a very important role in the laser additive manufacturing (LAM) process which has been widely used in different industries. In this process, simple laser scan strategies and constant laser power levels are usually used, which will elicit variations in the melt pool temperature and ultimately affect the forming quality such as the cracks and pores. In this paper, a new method for improving the forming quality was presented, which calculates the local thermal distribution dynamically by analyzing the laser scanning path included in a G-code file. A factor called the thermal distribution factor (TDF) was used to adjust the laser power. By inserting the adjusted laser power into a modified G-code file, the melt pool temperature can be controlled indirectly. This method can help to control the melt pool temperature and improve the forming quality at the lowest cost. An experimental set-up was designed to verify this method and the results were analyzed. Results indicated that the cracks and pores of the part were significantly reduced by using the modified G-code file. Besides, the drawbacks and the future potential improvements of this method were discussed.
High-specificity antibodies and detection methods for quantifying phosphorylated tau from clinical samples
Authors: Arbaciauskaite Monika , Lei Yu , Cho Yong Ku
Published: February 2021

The ability to measure total and phosphorylated tau levels in clinical samples is transforming the detection of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and other neurodegenerative diseases. In particular, recent reports indicate that accurate detection of low levels of phosphorylated tau (p-tau) in plasma provides a reliable biomarker of AD long before sensing memory loss. Therefore, the diagnosis and monitoring of neurodegenerative diseases progression using blood samples is becoming a reality. These major advances were achieved by using antibodies specific to p-tau as well as sophisticated high-sensitivity immunoassay platforms. This review focuses on these enabling advances in high-specificity antibody development, engineering, and novel signal detection methods. We will draw insights from structural studies on p-tau antibodies, engineering efforts to improve their binding properties, and efforts to validate their specificity. A comprehensive survey of high-sensitivity p-tau immunoassay platforms along with sensitivity limits will be provided. We conclude that although robust approaches for detecting certain p-tau species have been established, systematic efforts to validate antibodies for assay development is still needed for the recognition of biomarkers for AD and other neurodegenerative diseases.
Preferential Parasitism of Ooencyrtus mirus (Hymenoptera: Encyrtidae) on Bagrada hilaris (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae) Regardless of Rearing Host
Authors: Ganjisaffar Fatemeh , Power Nancy , Perring Thomas M
Published: February 2021

The invasive stink bug, Bagrada hilaris (Burmeister) (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae), is a serious pest of cole crops. Studies are underway to assess the potential of an exotic egg parasitoid from Pakistan, Ooencyrtus mirus Triapitsyn & Power (Hymenoptera: Encyrtidae), as a biological control agent for this pest. In the present study, the ovipositional preference of O. mirus reared for multiple generations on B. hilaris, Thyanta pallidovirens (Stal), or Nezara viridula (Linnaeus) (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae) for eggs of these three stink bug species was evaluated. The first host accepted for oviposition, the number of parasitoid eggs (as indicated by pedicels) laid on each host egg at different time intervals, and the number of wasps that emerged from parasitized eggs were recorded. Results show that O. mirus prefers eggs of its primary host, B. hilaris, for oviposition over the alternate hosts tested regardless of whether the parasitoids were reared on the primary or alternate hosts. The percent parasitism in the first 2 h of exposure also was higher on B. hilaris eggs although it was not significantly different from T. pallidovirens eggs for parasitoids reared on B. hilaris and N. viridula eggs. For all parasitoid populations, the mean number of emerged wasps per host egg ranged from 0.9 to 1.1 with no significant differences. Bagrada hilaris eggs were significantly smaller than T. pallidovirens and N. viridula eggs and female wasps that emerged from B. hilaris eggs had significantly shorter body length and head width than those that emerged from T. pallidovirens and N. viridula eggs.
Epigenetic alterations in stem cell ageing—a promising target for age-reversing interventions?
Authors: Pouikli Andromachi , Tessarz Peter
Published: February 2021

Ageing is accompanied by loss of tissue integrity and organismal homeostasis partly due to decline in stem cell function. The age-associated decrease in stem cell abundance and activity is often referred to as stem cell exhaustion and is considered one major hallmark of ageing. Importantly, stem cell proliferation and differentiation potential are tightly coupled to the cellular epigenetic state. Thus, research during the last years has started to investigate how the epigenome regulates stem cell function upon ageing. Here, we summarize the role of epigenetic regulation in stem cell fate decisions and we review the impact of age-related changes of the epigenome on stem cell activity. Finally, we discuss how targeted interventions on the epigenetic landscape might delay ageing and extend health-span.
IRIS-FGM: an integrative single-cell RNA-Seq interpretation system for functional gene module analysis
Authors: Chang Yuzhou , Allen Carter , Wan Changlin , Chung Dongjun , Zhang Chi , Li Zihai , Ma Qin
Published: February 2021

Single-cell RNA-Seq (scRNA-Seq) data is useful in discovering cell heterogeneity and signature genes in specific cell populations in cancer and other complex diseases. Specifically, the investigation of condition-specific functional gene modules (FGM) can help to understand interactive gene networks and complex biological processes in different cell clusters. QUBIC2 is recognized as one of the most efficient and effective biclustering tools for condition-specific FGM identification from scRNA-Seq data. However, its limited availability to a C implementation restricted its application to only a few downstream analysis functionalities. We developed an R package named IRIS-FGM (Integrative scRNA-Seq Interpretation System for Functional Gene Module analysis) to support the investigation of FGMs and cell clustering using scRNA-Seq data. Empowered by QUBIC2, IRIS-FGM can effectively identify condition-specific FGMs, predict cell types/clusters, uncover differentially expressed genes and perform pathway enrichment analysis. It is noteworthy that IRIS-FGM can also take Seurat objects as input, facilitating easy integration with the existing analysis pipeline.

Availability and implementation

IRIS-FGM is implemented in the R environment (as of version 3.6) with the source code freely available at https://github.com/BMEngineeR/IRISFGM.

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Timing of orchidopexy and its relationship to postoperative testicular atrophy: results from the ORCHESTRA study
Authors:   Paediatric Surgical Trainees Research Network (PSTRN),   Organizing and Writing Group:, Skerritt C , Bradshaw C , Hall N , McCarthy L , Woodward M
Published: February 2021

Background

In 2011 a consensus statement from the British Association of Paediatric Urologists recommended lowering the age at orchidopexy to under 1 year. There are concerns that a younger age at operation may increase postoperative testicular atrophy. The ORCHESTRA study aimed to establish the current age at orchidopexy in a multicentre, international audit and to see whether testicular atrophy was affected by age at operation.

Methods

The study was undertaken over a 3-month period in 28 centres in boys undergoing orchidopexy for unilateral, palpable undescended testes. Data collection was done using a standardized, predetermined protocol. The primary outcome was postoperative testicular atrophy. Secondary outcomes were wound infections, reoperations, and unplanned hospital stays related to anaesthetic events.

Results

A total of 417 patients were included, of whom only 48 (11.5 per cent) underwent orchidopexy before 1 year of age. There was no difference in anaesthetic complications in boys aged less than 1 year versus older patients: 0 of 48 (0 per cent) versus 6 of 369 (1.6 per cent) (P = 0.999). Complete follow-up was available for 331 patients (79.4 per cent). There was no difference in atrophy rate between those aged less than 1 year and older boys: 1 of 37 (3 per cent) versus 9 of 294 (3.1 per cent) (P = 0.999). Reoperation rates were 0 of 37 (0 per cent) and 7 of 294 (2.4 per cent) respectively (P = 1.000). There were more wound infections in boys under 1 year of age: 4 of 37 (11 per cent) versus 7 of 294 (2.4 per cent) (P = 0.025).

Conclusion

Only 11.5 per cent of boys underwent surgery before the age of 1 year. There was no increased risk of postoperative testicular atrophy with early surgery, although there was a higher rate of wound infection. Further study is required to demonstrate that early orchidopexy is not inferior to orchidopexy undertaken in boys aged over 1 year.
Chronic pain as a brain imbalance between pain input and pain suppression
Authors: Vanneste Sven , De Ridder Dirk
Published: February 2021

Chronic pain is pain that persists beyond the expected period of healing. The subjective experience of chronic pain results from pathological brain network interactions, rather than from persisting physiological sensory input of nociceptors. We hypothesize that pain is an imbalance between pain evoking dorsal anterior cingulate cortex and somatosensory cortex and pain suppression (i.e. pregenual anterior cingulate cortex). This imbalance can be measured objectively by current density ratios between pain input and pain inhibition. A balance between areas involved in pain input and pain suppression requires communication, which can be objectively identified by connectivity measures, both functional and effective connectivity. In patients with chronic neuropathic pain, electroencephalography is performed with source localization demonstrating that pain is reflected by an abnormal ratio between the dorsal anterior cingulate cortex, somatosensory cortex and pregenual anterior cingulate cortex. Functional connectivity demonstrates decreased communication between these areas, and effective connectivity puts the culprit at the dorsal anterior cingulate cortex, suggesting that the problem is related to abnormal behavioral relevance attached to the pain. In conclusion, chronic pain can be considered as an imbalance between pain input and pain suppression.
Circadian disruption in mice through chronic jet lag-like conditions modulates molecular profiles of cancer in nucleus accumbens and prefrontal cortex
Authors: Khan Suliman , Yong V Wee , Xue Mengzhou
Published: February 2021

Biological rhythms regulate physiological activities. Shiftwork disrupts normal circadian rhythms and may increase the risk of cancer through unknown mechanisms. To mimic environmental light/dark changes encountered by shift workers, a protocol called ‘chronic jet lag (CJL)’ induced by repeatedly shifting light–dark cycles has been used. Here, we subjected mice to CJL by advancing light–dark cycle by 6 h every 2 days, and conducted RNA sequencing to analyze the expression profile and molecular signature in the brain areas of prefrontal cortex and nucleus accumbens. We also performed positron emission tomography (PET) imaging to monitor changes related to glucose metabolism in brain. Our results reveal systematic reprogramming of gene expression associated with cancer-related pathways and metabolic pathways in prefrontal cortex and nucleus accumbens. PET imaging indicates that glucose uptake level was significantly reduced in whole brain as well as the individual brain regions. Moreover, qPCR analysis describes that the expression levels of cancer-related genes were altered in prefrontal cortex and nucleus accumbens. Overall, these results suggest a molecular and metabolic link with CJL-mediated cancer risk, and generate hypotheses on how CJL increases the susceptibility to cancer.
Cezanne is a critical regulator of pathological arterial remodelling by targeting β-catenin signalling
Authors: An Weiwei , Luong Le A , Bowden Neil P , Yang Mei , Wu Wei , Zhou Xinmiao , Liu Chenxin , Niu Kaiyuan , Luo Jun , Zhang Cheng , Sun Xiaolei , Poston Robin , Zhang Li , Evans Paul C , Xiao Qingzhong
Published: February 2021

Aims

Pathological arterial remodelling including neointimal hyperplasia and atherosclerosis is the main underlying cause for occluding arterial diseases. Cezanne is a novel deubiquitinating enzyme, functioning as a NF-кB negative regulator, and plays a key role in renal inflammatory response and kidney injury induced by ischaemia. Here we attempted to examine its pathological role in vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) pathology and arterial remodelling.

Methods and results

Cezanne expression levels were consistently induced by various atherogenic stimuli in VSMCs, and in remodelled arteries upon injury. Functionally, VSMCs over-expressing wild-type Cezanne, but not the mutated catalytically-inactive Cezanne (C209S), had an increased proliferative ability and mobility, while the opposite was observed in VSMCs with Cezanne knockdown. Surprisingly, we observed no significant effects of Cezanne on VSMC apoptosis, NF-κB signalling, or inflammation. RNA-sequencing and biochemical studies showed that Cezanne drives VSMC proliferation by regulating CCN family member 1 (CCN1) by targeting β-catenin for deubiquitination. Importantly, local correction of Cezanne expression in the injured arteries greatly decreased VSMC proliferation, and prevented arterial inward remodelling. Interestingly, global Cezanne gene deletion in mice led to smaller atherosclerotic plaques, but with a lower level of plaque stability. Translating, we observed a similar role for Cezanne in human VSMCs, and higher expression levels of Cezanne in human atherosclerotic lesions.

Conclusion

Cezanne is a key regulator of VSMC proliferation and migration in pathological arterial remodelling. Our findings have important implications for therapeutic targeting Cezanne signalling and VSMC pathology in vascular diseases.