bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effect of Cylinder Head Variations on the Mixture of Bio-Oil and Diesel Fuel on The Noise Value, Specific Fuel Consumption, and Gas Opacity
Authors: Aminudin A , Nisa NIF , Susanto F , Pitoyo BJ , Bagaskoro AM
Published: March 2021

The increasing number of motorized vehicle users causes increasing air pollution in atmosphere. This condition is due to the exhaust gas content generated by the consumption of this fuel. To resolve this, one of the efforts is to use a mixture of bio-oil in diesel fuel. Bio-oil is a dark brown liquid composed of highly oxygenated compounds produced through pyrolysis, where its properties are close to heavy fuel oil. This study aims to determine the effect of cylinder head variations on the mixture of bio-oil and diesel fuel on the performance of an engine. The engine used in this research is a single-cylinder engine with a direct injection system. When the standard cylinder head variations are used, the best noise, specific fuel consumption, and gas opacity values are obtained. The best noise value is 92.1 dB with a composition of 15% bio-oil and 85% diesel fuel. Meanwhile, the best specific fuel consumption value is 0,236 gram/watt. second with a variation of 20% bio-oil and 80% diesel fuel mixture. The best opacity value is obtained at 30,3% when bio-oil fuel composition is 15% and diesel is 85%.
The Effect of Use Microwave Irradiation in Produce Biodiesel Nyamplung Oil (Calophyllum inophyllum Linn) Using KOH Catalyst
Authors: Nurhidayanti Nisa
Published: March 2021

Nyamplung (Calophyllum inophyllum Linn) is a non edible that has the potential to produce high yield biodiesel. Oil nyamplung in this study had amounted to 27,498% FFA content, therefore, needs a pretreatment process consisting of degumming to remove gum, esterification and neutralization to lower FFA <2% so that the oil can be resumed in the transesterification process. The purpose of this research to study the effect of microwave power, time and temperature of the reaction to yield biodiesel, identify methyl ester in the product and assess the kinetics of making biodiesel from oil nyamplung using microwave irradiation. Transesterification is done by using a variation of power (100, 200 and 400W), variations of time (5, 7, 10, 12 and 15 minutes) and variations of temperature (50, 55, 60, 65 and 70 °C). The results showed the best conditions using microwave power of 200 W at 65 ° C for 5 minutes, maximum yield of 84,62% biodiesel and biodiesel physical properties meet the standard of SNI 04-7182-2006. GCMS analysis showed that the methyl ester of biodiesel oil nyamplung is 30,23% methyl oleic, 25,76% methyl linolelaidate, 19.21% methyl palmitate, 15,75% methyl stearic, 2,11% methyl lignocerate, 1,41%, methyl eicosanoic, 0,54% methyl behenate and 0,37% methyl palmitoleic. Transesterification reaction rate constant of first order at a temperature of 55 °C, 65 °C and 70 °C is 0,395 min−1, 0,405 min−1 and 0,412 min−1. Pre exponential factor (A) amounted to 1,0161 L / mol min; the activation energy (Ea) 2579,834 J/mole and the rate of transesterification reaction (rt) = 1,0161e(2579,834/RT)[ME]. The results of this study showed that the rate of reaction using microwave irradiation higher and the reaction time becomes 1/6 times faster with activation energy value is smaller than with conventional methods.
Design of Constant Constant Current Regulator Control System of NBF 1200 Using Programmable Logic Controller at The Airport
Authors: Hartono  , Sudjoko R I , Hariyadi S , Kumalawati D A
Published: March 2021

International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) regulated Visual Aids for Navigation stated on Annex 14 Chapter 5 consist of mandatory item which provides important guidance’s for piloting the airplane. Presently, the system of visual aids for navigation has been working with the Constant Current Regulator (CCR) which in its development there are various type at CCR used at airport. One type CCR is still widely used at airport today is the CCR NBF 1200 power supply using its control system. Reliability and time respons become problem related those system. Therefore this paper presents an design on CCR NBF 1200 control system simulation to control the brightness level of the lamps which indicating as visual aid for navigation. The result shows brightness level success controlled by PLC remotely based on the power level.
A framework for sustainable environmental analysis
Authors: Mokhtar S’harin
Published: March 2021

This study aims to identify the determinants of key forces in the external and internal environment of event management to propose a sustainable environment analysis framework that will help organizers to improve the sustainability of the strategy formulation. The proposed framework incorporates sustainability practices, previous research on sustainable event management, existing strategies of sustainable strategic management, and the results from this study. This framework has adopted PEST Analysis (a framework used to analyse and monitor macro-environmental factors that may have a profound impact on an organization’s performance) in external environment analysis and Mckinsey 7s Framework in internal environment analysis to identify sustainable-related determinants of key forces to propose common sustainable practices to get common acceptance for sustainability. The identified determinants were applied in the proposed framework to guide event organizer when identifying key forces of external and internal environment which can influence to achieve sustainability in the event. On top of this, SWOT Analysis (a strategic planning technique used to help an organization to identify strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threat related to business competition) was adopted to help event organizers to identify the opportunities and threats in the external environment and understand the strengths and weakness of the organization to formulate effective sustainable strategies and move their events toward sustainability.
Resolving issues and disputes in Extension of Time (EoT) claim in the Malaysian construction industry
Authors: Yusuwan Norazian Mohamad , Adnan Hamimah , Ahmad Rashid Zul Zakiyuddin , Bakhari Nor Azmi
Published: March 2021

The rapid growth of population in urban areas resulted in a higher amount of waste generated yearly. According to the Solid Waste Management and Public Cleansing Corporation (SWCorp), in 2018, Malaysians generated 38, 142 tonnes of waste per day with an average of 0.83 kg/capita/day for a household in the urban area. Malaysia, with a population of 32.4 million, 76% of the entire population are living in urban areas (Department of Statistic, 2018), this figure is worrying. This pilot study explores and evaluates the perspectives of governance on waste management processes and practices for urban residents; in a mixed density housing scheme. A survey was conducted on 30 respondents of a mixed density housing scheme in Section 7, Shah Alam, Selangor. The data then analysed through reliability test analysis. There were four (4) key variables being put forward for this study; services and practices, socio-economic and well-being, stakeholders and environment. The result of the analysis has found out that, the variables for waste management services for mixed density housing scheme are reliable with the respondent’s feedback. However, some questions are not compatible to be analysed in parallel with other questions.
The Well-being of Urban Residents of Serviced Apartment in USJ, Subang Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia
Authors: Hoon Lgeh Oliver Lin , Abdul Jalil Akmal Fuad , Marzukhi Marlyana Azyyati , Kwong Qi Jie , Nasrudin Na’asah
Published: March 2021

Serviced apartment as a newly popular type of mixed-use residential area is providing a new lifestyle to people with commercial, recreational facilities, and public transport facilities within the walking distance. The change of living environment from traditional housing area such as terrace houses and apartments to high rise serviced apartment did affect the change of well-being level of people. A study had been carried out in Main Place Serviced Apartment in USJ, Subang Jaya with three components of well-being, i.e. psychological, physical and social well-being. The well-being level among residents was identified through a questionnaire survey. From the analysis, the study found that psychological aspect of well-being was increased after respondents were moved into the study area. However, not all the physical and social elements were increased the satisfaction/well-being levels. Serviced apartment with a mixture of land uses and facilities can be further refined especially on the aspects of parking, traffic condition, social life, and waste management/cleaning services.
Factors affecting consumers’ choice in purchasing local fresh fruits: case of Melaka Tengah
Authors: Muhamad Zahid-Muhamad , Ruslan Nur Aziera , Ibrahim Nordiana , Saili AR , Ismail Nur Amalina
Published: March 2021

This study is designed to make a comprehensive understanding of the attitude among consumers and explore the preferred place for Malaysian consumers to purchase fresh fruits. This study examined the purchasing pattern of local fruits consumers based on store attributes considered by the consumers in choosing the place for their fresh fruits purchase. A structured questionnaire was developed as a survey instrument which sought to gather information regarding the retail formats preference of the respondents. Four analytical techniques have been used to interpret the result which is descriptive analysis, cross tabulation analysis, mean analysis and Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA). The outcome from this study revealed that consumer more preferred on traditional retail format rather than modern traditional retail format while purchasing the local fruits. Atmosphere of the retail market, competitive price, customer services and availability of various goods were identified as key determinants for consumer choosing the retail format. Based on this study, there was need for retail formats’ managers to consider what actually consumers need and wants and equilibrium between modern and traditional retailers must be met to fulfill what consumers demands.
Diesel Engine Run with Waste Cooking Oil (WCO) and Jatropha Biodiesel Blended Fuel
Authors: Saad Idris , Bahrim Fikri Arif
Published: March 2021

This project has been study the performance of diesel engine which runs with waste cooking oil (WCO) blends with jatropha biodiesel. The presence of jatropha biodiesel improved the fuel properties of WCO in blended fuel. Jatropha biodiesel was prepared through transesterification process from jatropha crude oil (JCO) by adding 20% amount of methanol and seven gram of potassium hydroxide per liter of JCO. The blended ratio of WCO started from 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25% and 30% which were compared to jatropha biodiesel. The properties of blended WCO and jatropha biodiesel than WCO were improved in terms of kinematic viscosity (reduce between 3 to 13%), density (reduce between 6 to 8%) and calorific value (increase between 3.5 to 3.8%) as increases the volume of jatropha biodiesel in the fuel blends. The blended fuels were tested on YANMA L48N diesel engine at constant speed (1500 rpm) but different engine loads of 2 Nm, 3 Nm, 4 Nm, 5 Nm and 6 Nm. The performance of diesel engine with the blended fuel was compared to the petroleum diesel fuel in terms of brake specific fuel consumption (BSFC), Brake Thermal Efficiency (BTE) and exhaust emissions. The exhaust emission characteristics of blended fuels were significant to environmental benefit as the amount of CO2 emission was found reduced approximately between 11 to 33%. This project found that the optimum blending ratio is at low volume of WCO than jatropha biodiesel in the range of 5 to 10%.
Study on the Preparation and Application of Chitosan/Silica Cu(II) Imprinted Microspheres
Authors: Zhang Min , Tan Chengyu , Hou Jiaqi , Zhang Cheng , Xue Yongxiang
Published: March 2021

Molecularly imprinted polymers are functional polymers for selective recognition of imprinted molecules, which may have a wide range of applications in separation and purification, environmental monitoring, etc. Chitosan has excellent chelation for metal ions, being widely used in food, environmental protection, etc. In this paper, chitosan/silica Cu(II) imprinted microspheres were prepared by using natural product chitosan as functional monomer, silane-doped, Cu(II) as template ion and glutaraldehyde as crosslinking agent. The adsorption properties of the chitosan/silica Cu(II) imprinted microspheres for Cu( II) were studied by flame atomic absorption spectrometry. The experimental results showed that the adsorbability of Cu(II) on the chitosan/silica Cu(II) imprinted microspheres was better than that of chitosan/silica non imprinted microspheres. The results of orthogonal test showed that the order of influence on the adsorption capacity of the chitosan/silica Cu(II) imprinted microspheres was chitosan, glutaraldehyde, Cu(II) and silane. Under the optimum conditions, the adsorption capacity of the chitosan/silica Cu(II) imprinted microspheres for Cu(II) could reach 33.38mg/g. Scanning electron microscopy showed that the diameter of the chitosan/silica Cu(II) imprinted microspheres was lower than 3 urn. Chitosan/silica Cu(II) imprinted microspheres were obviously harder than chitosan Cu(II) imprinted microspheres.
Tempered Stable Ornstein–Uhlenbeck Model for River Discharge Time Series with Its Application to Dissolved Silicon Load Analysis
Authors: Yoshioka H , Yoshioka Y
Published: March 2021

We identify stochastic process models describing the time series of inflow and outflow discharges of Obara Dam in Hii River, Japan. These models are based on tempered stable Ornstein–Uhlenbeck (TSOU) processes that have not been utilized in hydrological analysis but can capture both large and small fluctuation of the time series data. In addition, the models can be exactly simulated in a statistical sense by utilizing a recent tailored discretization algorithm, serving as efficient stochastic tools. We show that the identified models accurately reproduce statistical moments of the time series data and probability density functions. Based on the mathematical framework of backward stochastic differential equation (BSDE), the identified model is applied to a unique dynamic stochastic analysis of dissolved silicon (DSi) load flowing into the reservoir associated with Obara Dam. We thus contribute to the first application of TSOU processes and a BSDE to hydrological analysis.
Influence of Tide and Runoff on Saltwater Intrusion in the Qiantang River Estuary, China
Authors: Jiao Jian-ge , Huang Sen-jun , Zheng Rong
Published: March 2021

Qiantang River Estuary, as one of main fresh water resources for urban zone, has been threatened by salt water intrusion. Due to the combined influence of tide and runoff, the mechanism of saltwater intrusion is extremely complex. In view of this, research on the variation characteristics of chlorinity along Qiantang River Estuary is conducted based on chlorinity data. Further, analysis on effects that tide and upstream runoff exerting on chlorinity at intake is carried out to ensure urban water security. The chlorinity and tide data was obtained synchronously from automatic real-time monitoring systems at Zhakou, Qibao, Cangqian, Yanguan and Ganpu stations with sampling interval of 5 minutes. Results show that chlorinity Yanguan and Ganpu are mainly influenced by tide with period of 12.4 h; chlorinity at other stations are affected by runoff obviously. The peak chlorinity values at all observed stations increase with increase of tide ranges. The increase of upstream runoff enables to reduce the peak chlorinity. It is feasible to extract water under average tide and average runoff.
Shrinkage, Density and Hardness of Hard Magnetic Material (BaFe12O19) Based on Iron Sand Produced by Conventional Solid-State Reaction Process
Authors: Widodo R D , Priyono  , Rusiyanto  , Anis S , Ilham R I , Firmansyah H N , Wahyuni N
Published: March 2021

This paper presents shrinkage, density and hardness number of hard magnetic (BaFe12O19) based on iron sand produced by conventional solid-state reaction process. Iron sand was mechanically filtered using permanent magnets 35 times. The filtered iron sand was heated at temperatures of 900°C for 5 hours in the furnace and after it was cold and produce Fe2 O3 phase. Powders of Fe2O3 and BaCO3 were mixed and milled in a shaker ball mill up to 3 hours. The powder mixture compacted at a pressure of 2.5, 5 and 7.5 tons and followed by sintering at temparature of 1100, 1150 and 1200°C for 1 hour in the furnace. Shrinkage measurements include diameter and height uses vernier caliper, while density measurements use the Archimedes method. Hardness number obtained with pass vickers hardness testing methods. Barium ferrite ‘s maximum shrinkage and bulk density values were at 7.5 tons compacting pressure and 1200°C sintering temperature where the shrinkage value was 7.44 percent, average shrinkage was 3.49 percent, and density was 4.397 g/cm3. In barium ferrite with a compacting pressure of 7.5 tons and a sintering temperature of 1200 °C which is equivalent to 741 HV the highest hardness value is found. The higher the compacting press and sintering temperature, the greater the importance of bulk density and hardness of the materials.
Investigation on the effect of different friction stir machining tools shape on the mechanical properties of magnesium alloy work piece
Authors: Abdul Wahab N , Fatchurrohman N , Zulkfli Z
Published: March 2021

Friction stir process (FSP) is a method of solid-state consolidation that uses an inexhaustible tool to increase the modification of work piece structural. This current work presents a study of friction stir process on magnesium (Mg) alloy work piece using different design of pin profiles tool. Experiments were conducted in dry condition where tool progression was monitored carefully in every milling passes, then the effect and quality criterion were measured. Result shows that the dominant tool of friction stir process mechanism of mild steel tool is the strength intensity increased at higher speed and lower plunge length due to the superiority of friction stirred region on the magnesium. Furthermore, the hardness of the stirred friction of Mg alloy also increased by using a triangle pin profile design.
Design of hexacopter UAV system for disinfectant spraying
Authors: Arief U M , Subiyanto S , Andrasto T , Sukamta S , Sulistyawan V N , Sarwono E , Alfian A A , Wicaksono P , Amelia P N , Putra A D H
Published: March 2021

The spread of Covid-19 prevention has been carried out widely for example is the use of technology disinfectants. One of the development technologies at this time are drones. This study aims to design a UAV system as a disinfectant sprayer. Hexacopter is a type of drone that can fly more freely in the air that consists of 4 basic movements as throttle, roll motion, pitch motion, and yaw motion. The design method uses the ADDIE model (Analysis, Design, Development, Implementation, Evaluation). The analysis is needed including analysis of hardware and software requirements through a literature study. The design phase is designing concepts from the software. The development phase is to build-up the components into a drone. In the implementation phase by tool testing and an assessment of the implementation will be carried out. This research is an early part of the development of the UAV system. The results that design of UAV system consisting of components used Naza-M V2, a 23-inch propeller mounted on a 180KV Hobbywing X6 motor, ESC 80A, and a 12S 44.2V battery. Based on the results of hexacopter testing that can fly for 6 minutes, the weight is 10kg and works well in spraying disinfectants.
Soursop leaf extract as biodiesel antioxidant and the effect on automotive diesel engine performance
Authors: Widjanarko D , Azhar S , Megawati
Published: March 2021

This study aims to determine the effect of soursop leaf extraction as biodiesel antioxidants on the torque and power of diesel engines. Fuels were made by mixing the soursop leaf antioxidants of 50 ppm, 100 ppm and 150 ppm, to 1 litre of B30 fuel. The fuels were applied to diesel-engine vehicles. Diesel engine performance was tested by a chassis dynamometer. The results showed that the use of an antioxidant mixture of 50 ppm, 100 ppm, and 150 ppm in biodiesel caused a decrease in torque of 12.61%; 17.37%; 16.69% respectively, and the power was also decreased of 12.34%; 18.16% and 16.37% compared to biodiesel without antioxidant mixture.
The potency of metakaolin as addition material in high strength self-compacting concrete to increase Modulus of Rupture (MOR) in rigid pavement application
Authors: Wibowo W , Safitri E , Setyawan A , Muslih Y , Mediyanto A , Setiawan B , Syaufina T R
Published: March 2021

This study focused on the modulus of rupture (MOR) for high strength self-compacting concrete (SCC) using varied metakaolin (MK) composition. The MOR significantly contributes to the resilience and mechanical performance of the rigid pavement, and is enhanced by modifying the regular concrete material. In addition, the MK is known to be potentially economical and occurs abundantly as natural resources. Plain concrete beams with dimensions 400 x 100 x 100 mm3, were tested in the laboratory in an effort to measure the MOR from varied MK composition for each specimen or modified concrete type. The result showed the MOR increase is exclusively as a result of additional metakaolin. Also, the newly modified material was proven to offer more advantages when applied as rigid pavement material. Furthermore, the analytical laboratory result showed the optimum MK dosage was estimated at 20% of the binder weight. This subsequently enhances the MOR by 17.28% compared to non-MK concrete.
Assessing factors towards construction project delays in Indonesia
Authors: Susanti R , Fauziyah S , Suwarto F
Published: March 2021

Time delay in construction projects causing not only extended duration but also excessive project costs. It is needed by both owner and contractors to have good understanding to delay factors in construction project. The research aim is assesing delay factors in construction project from owner and contractors point of view. Questionnaire was used in this research and data were analyzed through Kendall’s W test using SPSS programme. This research has analyzed 15 delay factors in construction projecy i.e land acquisition delay, location, social, contract change order (CCO), rework, quality of subcontractor, delay in permits, poor planning, unstable material price, law and regulation, owner required, inflation, payment delay, cash flow and bad weather. The research finding land acquisition delay as the top of delay factors in construction project in Indonesia.
The difference in antioxidant capacity and tannin level in the production of parijoto fruit extract based dodol (sweet toffeelike sugar palm-based confection) using 4 different types of solvent
Authors: Ansori M , Wahyuningsih  , Fathonah S , Rosidah  , Yulianti N A H
Published: March 2021

The use of parijoto/showy Asian grape fruit (Medinella speciosa L) extract in the making of dodol ganyong (sweet canna tubers sugar palm-based confection) can increase its shelf life up to more than 6 months. In the next study, dodol with additional red fermented rice extract up to 100% of the basic ingredients which was extracted using water as the solvent increased the beta carotene content up to 87 µg and the antioxidant capacity by around 10%. These conditions indicate that adding antioxidant sources can improve the quality of dodol. However, the addition must be significant enough so that it does not only increase the antioxidant capacity, but also preserves the life. The up to 10% increase in the antioxidant capacity is sufficient to prevent dodol from rancidity but is unable to avoid the microbial growth on the dodol. The ineffectiveness of the antioxidant use in the previous study is suspected due to the incompatibility of the extraction solvent used. Antioxidant compounds can be optimally dissolved in the extraction process if it uses a solvent with compatible electronegativity. In previous research, the making of dodol using parijoto fruit which was extracted using water successfully preserved the dodol and avoided rancidity and xerophilic fungi growth. This study re-examined the use of 4 different solvents in the extraction of Parijoto fruit in the making of sticky rice dodol. The solvents are water, 3% of soda water, 96% of ethanol and 96% of acetone. To have a good quality dodol, the extraction of Parijoto fruit using each solvent was examined by observing the level of extraction efficiency, tannin level as the indicator of anti-microbial and antioxidant capacity. The research data showed that the highest extraction efficiency level of Parijoto fruit was found in the extraction using water and soda water 3% (79% and 78%). The highest tannin level was found in the extraction of parijoto fruit using 96% ethanol (30mgTAE /100g), while the lowest was found in the extraction with water (3.5 mg TAE/100g) as the solvent. Sequentially, the highest antioxidant capacity level of Parijoto fruit extract is produced when 96% of ethanol (75%), 96% of acetone (72%), 3% of soda water (60%) and water (53%) are used as solvents. The extractions of antioxidant capacity from Parijoto fruit using 4 types of solvents were all classified as “satisfactory”.
Experiment on Soil Squeezing Effect During Penetration of PHC Pipe Pile Static Pressure Pile in Deep Silt Site
Authors: Wang Qi , Ding Jihui , Zhang Jinlei , Yan Shengkang , Yu Zenghui , Wang Haochen
Published: March 2021

This paper takes the construction of a foundation pile project in Wenzhou as an example. Through indoor experiments, the law of squeezing soil stress with time and space and the dissipation of pore water pressure during the process of pile driving are studied. The test results show that (1) the static pressure of pipe pile driving has a good exponential increase relationship with the pile penetration depth; (2) the pile bottom pressure and radial squeezing soil pressure have a linear relationship with the pile penetration depth; (3) the radial earth pressure increases with the static pressure on the top of the pile during pile sinking, while decreases during unloading; the increment of radial earth pressure decreases with the increase of the distance between the pile and the measuring point, and the radial squeezing range can be determined according to the increase ratio of the radial earth pressure; (4) the ratio of the excess pore water pressure to the distance from the measuring point to the pile diameter decreases exponentially.
Review of Chemical Viscosity Reduction Technology for Ordinary Heavy Oil Reservoirs based on Environmental Protection
Authors: Li Pengcheng , Zhang Fusheng , Zhang Chunhui , Tan Jing , Liu Guoliang , Li Xuening , Wang Wenqian , Sun Guirong
Published: March 2021

With the increase of crude oil production in the world, the proportion of conventional crude oil is gradually reduced, so the recovery of heavy oil has become the development trend. Due to the characteristics of high viscosity and low fluidity of heavy oil, its exploitation difficulty is much higher than that of conventional heavy oil, which has become the main problem restricting its exploitation and utilization. In this paper, the commonly used chemical viscosity reduction technologies for heavy oil were reviewed, including emulsification viscosity reduction technology, oil-soluble viscosity reduction technology and catalytic modification viscosity reduction technology. Combined with literature and related oilfield experiments, this paper analyzed the mechanisms, advantages and disadvantages of technologies and prospected for future technology development of viscosity reduction technology.
Fabrication of rGO/Cuprous Oxide Nanocomposites for Gas Sensing
Authors: Wu Zhekun , Wang Yanyan , Ying Shuyang , Huang Manman , Peng Changsi
Published: March 2021

We report a simple fabrication of a gas sensor using a nanohybrid composite of reduced graphene oxide/cuprous oxide (rGO/Cu2O). The deoxidation of GO occurs meanwhile with the synthesis of Cu2O. The Cu2O component of the nanohybrid material has a linear morphology and a micron size, which is homogeneously mixed with rGO. The rGO/Cu2O gas sensor can effectively detect ppm level of NO2 gas, showing an outstanding reusability. Because rGO/Cu2O has a large specific surface area, it is more conducive to gas adsorption on its surface. Its good effect on detecting NO2 proves that the sensor has good commercial prospects.
Analysis of Three-dimensional Fluorescence Characteristics of Extracellular Polymeric Substances at Internal Points in MPR at Low Temperature
Authors: Tian Xi , Lv Yanhong , Liu Ying , Li Xuejiao , Ren Zhiming , Liu Xin , Bian Dejun
Published: March 2021

Through three-dimension excitation emission matrix (EEM) fluorescence spectroscopy and fluorescence regional integration (FRI), the content and composition changes of extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) in different regions in the Micro-Pressure Inner-Loop Bioreactor (MPR) were analyzed, and the law of EPS in spatial points was found. The analysis shows that the high excitation wavelength tryptophan-like Peak T1 and the low excitation wavelength tyrosine-like Peak B appear in the spectra of tightly-bounded EPS (TB-EPS) and loosely-bounded EPS (LB-EPS) at different points. The content of protein substances in EPS is relatively high. In addition, the unique flow pattern in the reactor forms a multi-oxygen zone, which causes the total amount of EPS and the content of various organic substances, especially protein substances, to increase from the center of the reactor to the outside.
Failure Analysis on Fiber Reinforced Thermoplastic Pipe
Authors: Song Chengli , Liu Xinbao , Bai Zhenquan , Kuang Xianren , Wang Shuai
Published: March 2021

In recent years, fiber reinforced thermoplastic pipe (FRTP) has been widely used in oil fields of China due to its excellent corrosion resistance and coiling performance. With the further expansion of application scope, some failure accidents have occurred. Based on the inspection of the wall thickness, chemical composition and physical properties of a failed FRTP in the western oilfield of China, the causes are systematically analyzed. The results show that the main cause of the sample fracture is the decrease of the strength of FRTP due to the oil and gas media constantly penetrate into the lining and reinforced layer during the long-term service. Moreover, it is found that the outer sheath is worn and penetrated to the reinforced layer which further reduces the bearing pressure performance of FRTP and finally causes the fracture failure.
Prevalence and species diversity of soil-transmitted helminths (STH) from selected soil samples in Penang Island, Malaysia
Authors: Haziqah M T F , Farhani R N , Hanim I A
Published: March 2021

A total of 90 soil samples were collected from playground, beach, and residential areas in Penang Island, Malaysia. STH parasites eggs were recovered by using McMaster method and sedimentation method which were then examined using the light microscope. It was found that 17.8% (16/90) soil samples examined were identified to be infected with STH parasites in this study. Out of 40 soil samples collected from residential areas, Ascaris sp. eggs (22.5%) were identified most frequently, followed by hookworm eggs (7.5%) and Toxocara sp. eggs (5%). In playground areas, only two soil samples (6.67%) were found positive for Ascaris sp. eggs. Meanwhile, all samples collected from beach areas were negative for STH parasites. It was also found that sandy soil type (85.71%) had the most occurrence of STH parasites compared to loamy soil type (14.29%) whereas none was found in clay soil. In this study, the overall prevalence of STH parasites was consider as moderate in all the three different sampling sites. Environmental contamination with Ascaris sp. and Toxocara sp. could possibly be due to defecation by stray animals and owned animals (pets) at the playground and the residentials areas. Nevertheless, appropriate measures need to be taken in order to improve the environment and basic hygiene through a comprehensive community-oriented health education program along with periodic deworming of the companion animals.
Development of environmental-friendly biofoam cup made from sugarcane bagasse and coconut fiber
Authors: Indarti E , Muliani S , Wulya S , Rafiqah R , Sulaiman I , Yunita D
Published: March 2021

Styrofoam is in high demand by street vendors and is often used as food packaging. This can cause an emergence of environmental problems because it cannot decompose. On the other hand, there is much waste from agricultural products such as sugarcane bagasse and coconut fiber which frequently accumulate on the side of Banda Aceh’s road without further processing. In this research, the sugarcane bagasse and coconut fiber have been used in the production of biodegradable foam (biofoam) with addition of commercial mold (ragi tempe; Rhizopus sp.). The aim of this experiment was to design and create a biofoam cup to substitute plastic or styrofoam cups. The objectives of this research were to develop the formulation for biofoam production specifically in finding the best percentage of ragi tempe. Prior to the biofoam manufacturing process, a survey was conducted to assess the extent of styrofoam and plastic food packaging in Banda Aceh, Indonesia. Three experiments were then conducted to find the best biofoam formulation so that the mold could grow to cover the raw material. The survey showed that styrofoam is the most widely used type of food packaging (68.6%) followed by plastic (37.2%). The biofoam cup was made with 200 g sugarcane bagasse or coconut fiber, 35 ml water, 25 g flour, and 13 g ragi tempe. However, further research is needed to examine the strength of the resulting biofoam cup.
Elucidation of aerobic bacteria diversity in neera water from coconut and nipa tree
Authors: Saini H S , Rahim N S A , Yaakop A S
Published: March 2021

Neera water is among Malaysian favorite local beverage, there were a lot of studies on its composition and its nutrional value, however the microbial diversity inside the water has been understudy. Two type of neera water were collected and cultured on nutrient agar (NA) media. Single colonies of bacteria formed were selected and re-isolated on NA agar to obtain a pure culture and incubated at 37°C±1°C. The isolates were proceeded to further identification by morphological, biochemical and molecular analysis. 23 aerobic bacteria was isolated and identified in this research, 14 isolates were obtained from nipa neera and nine isolates were obtained from coconut neera. Those bacteria were identified as Serratia sp. Staphylococcus sp, Streptococcus sp. Bacillus sp., Microbacterium sp., Enterobacter cloacae, Klebsiella aerogenes, Bacillus cereus and Pantoea anthophila respectively. Most of the identified bacteria were first reported to be present in neera sap which show a good fundamentals knowledge for others researcher. The bacteria present in nipa neera water and coconut neera water were also found to be different.
Prospect of propolis from stingless bee, Heterotrigona itama as biological control of the subterranean termite, Coptotermes curvignathus
Authors: Zakeri H A , Kannan M , Kumar N M , Azmi W A
Published: March 2021

This study applies a propolis from a stingless bee, Heterotrigona itama as an alternative to control the infestation of a subterranean termite, Coptotermes curvignathus. The objective of this study was to assess the antitermitic activity of stingless bee’s propolis as termiticide based on its repellency activity, contact toxicity effect as well as its ability to act as cellulase inhibitor. The bioactive components of the propolis in terms of the phenolics and flavonoids content were also determined. It was observed that the propolis is a termite’s repellent with a preference index of -0.73. Upon contact, it can kill 50% of the termite’s population within 1.5 hours with lethal concentration of about 16% (w/v). It’s extract also can inhibit cellulase activity of termites. Diameter of the clear zone on the CMC agar was found to be significantly reduced from 3.1 cm to 2.4 cm when 30% (w/v) propolis’s extract was added into the termite extract at the ratio of 1 to 4 (termite: propolis extract). In conclusion, from the results obtained, propolis from Heterotrigona itama has high potential to be used as an environmentally safe alternative to chemical termiticide.
Endophytic Aspergillus species from corn kernels in Peninsular Malaysia
Authors: Terna P T , Mohamed Nor N M I , Zakaria L
Published: March 2021

Endophytes are micro-organisms that infect and colonize internal tissues of host plants without causing obvious disease symptoms. Although most endophyte-plant relationships occur in the absence of the manifestation of disease, infections by some endophytic Aspergillus species may occur, leading to the production of mycotoxins in infected plant tissues by toxigenic species. In this study, endophytic Aspergillus species from kernels of corn plants in six states of Peninsular Malaysia were isolated and identified. A total of 178 isolates of endophytic Aspergillus belonging to two species, were recovered from surface disinfected corn kernels after 4-7 days of incubation on Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA), and identified using morphological characteristics on different growth media. Endophytic Aspergillus flavus was the most commonly isolated species (n=177), followed by Aspergillus tubingensis (n=1). Measures to control seed infection by endophytic Aspergillus species are required to improve corn seed health and preserve corn yield in Peninsular Malaysia.
Characteristics of Plasmodium knowlesi Malaria based on the results of PCR examinations in Aceh Besar District
Authors: Puetri N R , Fahrimal Y , Farida  , Salmiaty
Published: March 2021

Malaria is a disease that conducted the health problems in Indonesia. Human malaria is caused by Plasmodium. There are 5 types of plasmodium, which were known to be able to infect humans, namely Plasmodium vivax, Plasmodium falciparum, Plasmodium malariae, Plasmodium ovale, and Plasmodium knowlesi. The increasing of malaria cases due to Plasmodium knowlesi in Aceh Besar District for the period 2019-2020 be the fundamental of this research related to the proportion of patient characteristics, which include: sex, age, occupation, domicile and health facilities that carry out examinations and provide treatment and the connection with the PCR examination results. This research applied a descriptive method with cross-sectional design. The total sample were 39 samples with a total positive PCR sample were 16 samples that consists of 81.3% of male gender (13 people), 62.5% of adult (10 people), 56.3% of worker (9 people), 75% of native (12 people) and 81.3% of the people from Lembah Seulawah health center (13 people). The characteristics patients infected by Plasmodium knowlesi malaria in the Aceh Besar District are: Male, adult, working, native population and the highest number were in the Lembah Seulawah Health Center.
Effect of dilution gas composition on the evolution of graphite electrode characteristics in the spark gap switch
Authors: DAI Hongyu , LI Lee , REN Shuai , GUO Jingrun , GONG Xin , MURPHY Anthony Bruce
Published: March 2021

As the widely implemented electrode material, graphite has the characteristic of sublimation by the thermal shock of the switching arc, and the produced carbon vapor is easy to condense into carbon powders and deposit in the switch. The impact of the type of dilution gas in a mixture of 20% oxygen and 80% dilution gas on the sublimation and oxidation characteristics of the graphite electrode is investigated. It is found that when nitrogen dilution gas was replaced by argon, the heat flux to the electrodes decreased, which led to a 63% reduction of graphite sublimation. At the same time, the cooling rate of the arc was slower in argon, which promotes oxidation of the carbon vapor. The residual solid carbon can be reduced by 70%–85% by using argon as the dilution gas. Consequently, it is demonstrated that the stability and working life of the switch could be increased by appropriate selection of the dilution gas.
ASHP national survey of pharmacy practice in hospital settings: Dispensing and administration—2020
Authors: Pedersen Craig A , Schneider Philip J , Ganio Michael C , Scheckelhoff Douglas J
Published: March 2021

Purpose

Results of the 2020 ASHP national survey of pharmacy practice in hospital settings are presented.

Methods

Pharmacy directors at 1,437 general and children’s medical/surgical hospitals in the United States were surveyed using a mixed-mode method of contact by email and mail. Survey completion was online. IQVIA supplied data on hospital characteristics; the survey sample was drawn from the IQVIA hospital database.

Results

The response rate was 18.7%. Almost all hospitals (92.5%) have a method for pharmacists to review medication orders on demand. Most hospitals (74.5%) use automated dispensing cabinets (ADCs) as their primary method for drug distribution. A third of hospitals use barcodes to verify doses during dispensing in the pharmacy and to verify ingredients when intravenous medications are compounded. More than 80% scan barcodes when restocking ADCs. Sterile workflow management technology is used in 21.3% of hospitals. Almost three-quarters of hospitals outsource some sterile preparations. Pharmacists can independently prescribe in 21.1% of hospitals. Pharmacist practice in ambulatory clinics in 46.2% of health systems and provide telepharmacy services in 28.4% of health systems.

Conclusion

Pharmacists continue their responsibility in their traditional role in preparation and dispensing of medications. They have successfully employed technology to improve safety and efficiency in performance of these duties and have employed emerging technologies to improve the safety, timeliness, and efficiency of the administration of drugs to patients. As pharmacists continue to expand their role to all aspects of medication use, new opportunities highlighted in ASHP’s Practice Advancement Initiative 2030 have been identified.
Linking Big Five Personality Domains and Facets to Alcohol (Mis)Use: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Lui P Priscilla , Chmielewski Michael , Trujillo Mayson , Morris Joseph , Pigott Terri D
Published: March 2021

Aims

The goal of this investigation was to synthesize (un)published studies linking Big Five personality domains and facets to a range of alcohol use outcomes. Meta-analyses were conducted to quantify the unique associations between alcohol use outcomes and each Big Five personality domains over and above other domains. Within each domain, meta-analyses also were conducted to examine the unique contribution of each personality facet in predicting alcohol use outcomes.

Methods

Systematic literature reviews were performed in PsycINFO and PubMed using keywords related to alcohol use and personality. Peer-reviewed and unpublished studies were screened and coded for the meta-analyses. A total of 80 independent samples were subjected to correlated effects meta-regressions.

Results

Over and above other Big Five personality domains, both conscientiousness and agreeableness were negatively correlated with alcohol consumption, risky/hazardous drinking and negative drinking-related consequences. Facet-level analyses indicated that deliberation and dutifulness were uniquely associated with alcohol (mis)use over and above other conscientiousness facets, and compliance and straightforwardness were uniquely associated with alcohol (mis)use over and above other agreeableness facets. Extraversion—namely excitement seeking—was correlated with alcohol consumption, whereas neuroticism—namely impulsiveness and angry hostility—was correlated with negative drinking-related consequences.

Conclusions

Personality characteristics are robust correlates of alcohol (mis)use. Examining relevant narrowband traits can inform mechanisms by which personality affects drinking behaviors and related problems, and ways to enhance clinical interventions for alcohol use disorder. Gaps in this literature and future research directions are discussed.
Expanding the Progressive Tension Suture Concept: A Study of Its Utility in Body Contouring Procedures
Authors: Agochukwu-Nwubah Nneamaka , Patronella Christopher
Published: March 2021

Background

Seroma is one of the most common complications following body contouring. Progressive tension sutures (PTSs) have been shown to decrease the seroma rate following abdominoplasty, component separation, and facelifts and following latissimus flap and deep inferior epigastric artery perforator flap harvest.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of PTS techniques and their impact on the seroma rate in body contouring flap procedures.

Methods

A retrospective review was performed of all patients undergoing a flap procedure (defined as any procedure that produces a dead space and subsequent susceptibility to seroma) by a single surgeon at a single institution over 3 years. All patients/procedures utilized PTS techniques, as is routine in the surgeon’s practice. No drains were used. Patient demographics and complications, including seroma, were tracked.

Results

A total of 441 flap procedures were performed in 351 patients over the 3-year study period. These procedures comprised 305 abdominoplasties, 68 lower body lifts, 17 medial thigh lifts, 36 brachioplasties, and 15 torsoplasties. PTSs were used in all procedures. No drains were utilized. Complications occurred in 72 procedures (16.3%), with the most common complication being minor wound dehiscence without infection. There were no cases of seroma.

Conclusions

PTSs represent an effective technique for reducing the seroma rate, eliminating the potential space and promoting tissue adherence in flap procedures for body contouring. This is the first study of its kind demonstrating the use and role of this technique in body contouring procedures beyond the scope of abdominoplasty.

Level of Evidence: 4
Habitat disturbance alters color contrast and the detectability of cryptic and aposematic frogs
Authors: Barnett James B , Varela Brandon J , Jennings Ben J , Lesbarrères David , Pruitt Jonathan N , Green David M
Published: March 2021

Animals use color both to conceal and signal their presence, with patterns that match the background, disrupt shape recognition, or highlight features important for communication. The forms that these color patterns take are responses to the visual systems that observe them and the environments within which they are viewed. Increasingly, however, these environments are being affected by human activity. We studied how pattern characteristics and habitat change may affect the detectability of three frog color patterns from the Bocas del Toro archipelago in Panama: Beige-Striped Brown Allobates talamancae and two spotted morphs of Oophaga pumilio, Black-Spotted Green and Black-Spotted Red. To assess detectability, we used visual modeling of conspecifics and potential predators, along with a computer-based detection experiment with human participants. Although we found no evidence for disruptive camouflage, we did find clear evidence that A. talamancae stripes are inherently more cryptic than O. pumilio spots regardless of color. We found no evidence that color pattern polytypism in O. pumilio is related to differences in the forest floor between natural sites. We did, however, find strong evidence that human disturbance affects the visual environment and modifies absolute and rank order frog detectability. Human-induced environmental change reduces the effectiveness of camouflage in A. talamancae, reduces detectability of Black-Spotted Green O. pumilio, and increases chromatic contrast, but not detectability, in Black-Spotted Red O. pumilio. Insofar as predators may learn about prey defenses and make foraging decisions based on relative prey availability and suitability, such changes may have wider implications for predator–prey dynamics.