bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Role of Cellulose Nanofibrils in Improving the Strength Properties of Papers: A Review
Authors: Jele Thabisile Brightwell , Lekha Prabashni , Sithole Bruce
Published: July 2021

The pursuit for sustainability in the papermaking industry calls for the elimination or reduction of synthetic additives and the exploration of renewable and biodegradable alternatives. Cellulose nanofibrils (CNFs), due to their inherent morphological and biochemical properties, are an excellent alternative to synthetic additives. These properties enable CNFs to improve the mechanical, functional and barrier properties of different types of paper. The nanosize diameter, micrometre length, semi-crystalline structure, high strength and modulus of CNFs has a direct influence on the mechanical properties of paper such as tensile index, burst index, Scott index, breaking length, tear index, Z-strength, E-modulus, strain at break, and tensile stiffness. This review details the role played by CNFs as an additive to improve strength properties of papers and the factors affecting the improvement in paper quality when CNFs are added as additives. The paper also includes techno-economic aspects of the process and identifies areas that need further research.
Exosomal let-7f-5p Derived from Mineralized Osteoblasts Promotes the Angiogenesis of Endothelial Cells via DUSP1 / Erk1/2 Signaling Pathway
Authors: He Yiqun , Li Hailong , Yu Zuochong , Li Linli , Chen Xujun , Yang Aolei , Lyu Feizhou , Dong Youhai
Published: July 2021

Background: Angiogenesis is essential for the tissue engineering bone formation, and osteoblasts (OBs) has been proved to play an important role in angiogenesis via various pro-angiogenic factors. However, whether the mineralized osteoblast derived exosomes (MOB-Exos) and containing let-7f-5p can promote the angiogenesis of endothelial cells (ECs) is still unknown.Methods: MOB-Exos, let-7f-5p mimicked MOB-Exos (miR mimic group) and let-7f-5p inhibited MOB-Exos (miR inhibitor group) were respectively harvested from mineralized osteoblasts (MOBs) and then co-cultured with bEnd.3. Besides, the Erk1/2 signaling pathway in ECs in miR mimic group was inhibited. Subsequently, CCK-8 assays, wound healing assays, transwell migration assays and tube formation assays were performed to detect the angiogenic capability of ECs. Dual luciferase reporter assays were conducted to verify the target genes of exosomal let-7f-5p. Results: The results showed that MOB-Exos could significantly promote the angiogenesis of ECs, which could be enhanced by mimicking exosomal let-7f-5p, and attenuated by inhibiting exosomal let-7f-5p. And the angiogenic capability of ECs was partly impaired after inhibiting the Erk1/2 signaling pathway despite co-cultured with let-7f-5p mimicked MOB-Exos. Moreover, let-7f-5p suppressed the luciferase activity of wide-type DUSP1, while mutation of DUSP1 abrogated the repressive ability of let-7f-5p. Conclusion: Based the results, our study concluded that exosomal let-7f-5p derived from MOBs could promote the angiogenesis of ECs via activating DUSP1/Erk1/2 signaling pathway, which might be a promising target for tissue engineering bone formation.
Cellulosic Ethanol Production by Engineered Consortia of Scheffersomyces Stipitis and Zymomonas Mobilis
Authors: Sun Lingling , Wu Bo , Zhang Zengqin , Yan Jing , Liu Panting , Song Chao , Shabbir Samina , Zhu Qili , Yang Shihui , Peng Nan , He Mingxiong , Tan Furong
Published: July 2021

Background: As one of the clean and sustainable energies, lignocellulosic ethanol has achieved much attention around the world. The production of lignocellulosic ethanol does not compete with people for food, while the consumption of ethanol could contribute to the carbon dioxide emission reduction. Two of the conditions that are needed to attain cost-efficient lignocellulosic ethanol production at an industrial scale are the simultaneous transformation of glucose and xylose to ethanol and a highly efficient ethanol fermentation process. Results: In this study, the consortia consisting of suspended Scheffersomyces stipitis CICC1960 and Zymomonas mobilis 8b were cultivated to successfully depress carbon catabolite repression (CCR) in 80G40XRM. With this strategy, a 5.52% more xylose consumption and a 6.52% higher ethanol titer were achieved by the consortium, in which the inoculation ratio between S. stipitis and Z. mobilis was 1:3, at the end of fermentation compared with the Z. mobilis 8b mono-fermentation. Subsequently, one copy of the xylose metabolic genes was inserted into the Z. mobilis 8b genome to construct Z. mobilis FR2, leading to the xylose final-consumption amount and ethanol titer improvement by 15.36% and 6.81%, respectively. Finally, various concentrations of corn stover hydrolysates, in which the sum of glucose and xylose concentrations in the hydrolysates were 60, 90, and 120 g/L respectively, were used to evaluate the fermentation performance of the consortium consisting of S. stipitis CICC1960 and Z. mobilis FR2. Fermentation results showed that a 1.56% - 4.59% higher ethanol titer was achieved by the consortium compared with the Z. mobilis FR2 mono-fermentation, and a 46.12% - 102.14% higher ethanol titer was observed in the consortium fermentation when compared with the S. stipitis CICC1960 mono-fermentation. Conclusions: The fermentation strategy used in this study, i.e., using a genetically modified consortium, had a superior performance in ethanol production, as compared with the S. stipitis CICC1960 mono-fermentation and the Z. mobilis FR2 mono-fermentation alone. Thus, this strategy has potential for future lignocellulosic ethanol production.
Application of AI Modeling Technology Based on Fluid Biopsy to Diagnose AD
Authors: Sh Yuan , Liu Benliang , Zhang Jianhu , Zhou Ying , Hu Zhiyuan , zhang Xiuli
Published: July 2021

BackgroundThere are no obvious clinical symptoms in the early stages of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Therefore, the diagnosis of AD directly leads to serious lag. Studies have shown that most patients usually have mild cognitive impairment (MCI) before diagnosis. Therefore, the actual time of diagnosis of AD is much later than the time of onset. This brings great difficulties to the late treatment and management of patients. Therefore, early diagnosis of AD is very important. This paper mainly discusses the blood biomarkers of AD patients and uses machine learning methods to find the changes of blood transcriptome during the development of AD, and to search for potential blood biomarkers.MethodIndividualized blood mRNA expression data were downloaded from the GEO database in 711 patients, including control group (CON) (238 patients), MCI (189 patients), and AD (284 patients). Firstly, we analyzed the subcellular localization, protein types and enrichment pathways of the differentially expressed mRNAs in each group, and established an artificial intelligence individualized diagnostic model. Furthermore, Xcell tool was used to analyze the blood mRNA expression data to obtain the composition and quantitative data of blood cells. Ratio characteristics were established for mRNA and Xcell data respectively. Feature engineering operations such as collinearity and importance analysis are performed on all features to obtain the best feature solicitation. Finally, four machine learning algorithms, including linear support vector machine (SVM), Adaboost, random forest and artificial neural network, were used to model the optimal feature combinations and evaluate their classification performance in the test set.ResultA total of 5625 differential mRNAs were obtained by differential analysis of blood mRNAs. Through feature engineering screening, the best feature collection was obtained, and the artificial intelligence individualized diagnosis model established based on this method achieved a classification accuracy of 91.59% in the test set. The AUC of CON, MCI and AD were 0.9746, 0.9536 and 0.9807, respectively. ConclusionThe 181 features are composed of four dimensions, which can accurately classify CON, MCI and AD groups, suggesting that machine learning methods can capture changes in blood biomarkers in Alzheimer's patients. The results of cell homeostasis analysis suggested that the homeostasis of NTK cells might be related to AD, and the homeostasis of GMP might be one of the reasons for AD.
Stochastic Nonlinear Ground Response Analysis Considering Existing Boreholes Locations by the Geostatistical Method
Authors: Amjadi A.H. , johari Ali
Published: July 2021

The field and laboratory evidence of nonlinear soil behavior, even at small strains, emphasizes the ‎importance of employing nonlinear methods in seismic ground response analysis. Additionally, ‎determination of dynamic characteristics of soil layers always includes some degree of uncertainty. Most of ‎previous stochastic studies of ground response analysis have focused only on uncertainties of soil ‎parameters, and the effect of soil sample location has been mostly ignored. This study attempts to couple ‎nonlinear time-domain ground response analysis with uncertainty of soil parameters considering existing ‎boreholes’ ‎location through a geostatistical method using a program written in MATLAB. To evaluate ‎the efficiency of the proposed method, stochastic seismic ground responses at construction location were compared with those of the non-stationary random ‎field method‎ through real site data. The ‎results demonstrate that applying the boreholes’ ‎location significantly affects not only the ground ‎responses but also their Coefficient Of Variation (COV). Furthermore, the mean value of the seismic ‎responses is affected more considerably by the values of soil parameters at the vicinity of the construction location. It is also inferred that considering boreholes’ location may reduce the COV of the seismic ‎responses. Among the surface responses in the studied site, the values of Peak Ground Displacement (PGD) ‎and Peak Ground Acceleration (PGA) reflect the highest and ‎lowest dispersion due to uncertainties of soil ‎properties through both non-stationary random field and geostatistical methods.
Changes in the Excitability of Primary Hippocampal Neurons Following Exposure to 3.0 GHz Radiofrequency Electromagnetic Fields
Authors: Echchgadda Ibtissam , Cantu Jody C. , Tolstykh Gleb P. , Butterworth Joseph W. , Payne Jason A. , Ibey Bennett L.
Published: July 2021

Exposures to low intensity radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMFs, 100 kHz to 6 GHz) have been associated with both positive and negative effects on cognitive behavior. To elucidate the mechanism of RF-EMF interaction, a few studies have examined its impact on neuronal activity and synaptic plasticity. However, there is still a need for additional basic research that verify the reported effects and further our understanding of the underlying mechanisms of RF-EMFs on the neuronal system. The present study investigated changes in neuronal activity and synaptic transmission following a 60-min exposure to 3.0 GHz RF-EMF at a low dose (specific absorption rate (SAR) < 1 W/kg). We showed that RF-EMF exposure decreased the amplitude of action potential (AP), depolarized neuronal resting membrane potential (MP), and increased neuronal excitability and synaptic transmission in cultured primary hippocampal neurons (PHNs). The results show that RF-EMF exposure can alter neuronal activity and highlight that more investigations should be performed to fully explore the RF-EMF effects and mechanisms.
Novel sites for Cathepsin L cleavage in SARS-CoV-2 spike guide treatment strategies
Authors: Yang Jin-Kui , Zhao Miao-Miao , Zhu Yun , Zhang Li , Zhong Gongxun , Tai Linhua , Liu Shuo , Yin Guoliang , Huang Weijin , Fan Changfa , Shuai Lei , Wen Zhiyuan , Wang Chong , He Xijun , Bu Zhigao , Wang Youchun , Sun Fei
Published: July 2021

The spike (S) protein of SARS coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is an ideal target for the development of specific vaccines or drugs. However, treatments targeting viruses with mutant S proteins that have recently emerged in many countries are limited. Cleavage of the S protein by host proteases is essential for viral infection. Here, we discovered two novel sites (CS-1 and CS-2) in the S protein for cleavage by the protease Cathepsin L (CTSL). Both sites are highly conserved among all SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern. Cryo-electron microscopy structural studies revealed that CTSL cleavage increases the dynamics of the receptor binding domain of S and induces novel conformations. In our pseudovirus (PsV) infection experiment, alteration of the cleavage site significantly reduced the infection efficiency, and CTSL inhibitors markedly inhibited infection with PsVs of both the wild-type and emerged SARS-CoV-2 variants. Furthermore, six highly efficient CTSL inhibitors were found to effectively inhibit live virus infection in human cells in vitro, and two of these were further confirmed to prevent live virus infection in human ACE2 transgenic mice in vivo. Our work suggested that the CTSL cleavage sites in SARS-CoV-2 S are emerging new but effective targets for the development of mutation-resistant vaccines and drugs.
Adverse Childhood Experiences, Associated Stressors and Comorbidities in Children and Youth with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder across the Child Protection and Justice Settings in Western Australia
Authors: Tan Grace Kuen Yee , Symons Martyn , Fitzpatrick James , Connor Sophia G , Cross Donna , Pestell Carmela
Published: July 2021

Background: Individuals with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) are at risk of having adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), especially those with child protection or justice system involvement. The complex relationship between FASD and psychosocial vulnerabilities in the affected individual is an important clinical risk factor for comorbidity. This study (1) explored the ACEs and associated stressors in individuals with FASD; (2) compared the ACEs profiles of those who had been involved with the child protection system only, justice system only, both or neither; (3) examined the relationship between ACEs and comorbid conditions such as mood and neurodevelopmental disorders. Methods: Data were collected retrospectively via file review from diagnostic clinics in Western Australia. Life adversity was coded using a standardised ACEs questionnaire. 211 participants (71.6% males) with FASD with a mean age of 11.12 (range = 2-21) were included in the total sample.Results: Exposure to drinking/substance misuse at home (70.1%) and domestic violence (51.7%) were the two most common ACEs across the total sample. In the entire cohort, 39.3% had four or more ACEs. Additional stressors reported were involvement with child protection system (69.7%), disengagement from school (43.1%), trouble with the law (40.3%), transiency (19.0%), documented victims of bullying (12.3%), traumatic brain injury (9.0%) and homelessness (5.2%). Further, individuals who had been involved with both the child protection and justice system were four to eleven times more likely than those without any involvement to report parental drinking/substance misuse at home, parental incarceration, exposure to domestic violence and emotional/physical neglect. Higher rates of life adversity in this clinical population were associated with an increased number of comorbidities, p <.001. Specifically, those with FASD who had comorbidities such as attachment disorder (p =.001), substance use disorder (p =.006), and PTSD (p <.001) also reported higher ACEs score.Conclusion: ACEs were common in this clinical population, particularly those who had been involved with both the child protection and justice system. Increased ACEs in this clinical population were associated with increased comorbidities. This highlights that prevention, intervention and early diagnosis of FASD are important for at risk children to reduce the negative effects of ACEs.
Advanced Artificial Intelligence Assisted Learning Model for Smart Educational Learning Strategies for Teachers and Students
Authors: Yu Xiaobing
Published: July 2021

A smart classroom is a technology-based learning approach that helps to improve students ' skills in vocational colleges. It allows educators to create an interactive experience during teaching, which makes the system even more appealing and collaborative in learning strategies.In this paper, Advanced Artificial Intelligence assisted Learning model (AAILM)is used to design a smart interactive education system for vocational education.A qualitative approach is used on 40 vocational colleges around Chinato analyze thefindings, interviews, and focus group dialogue based on the learning strategies followed by students and teachers. Furthermore, the results of this analysis showed many improvements in the positions of teachers and students in the smart learning program.The study consisted of 102 students, and the results have been checkedbased on F-Test and T-Test. The result findings revealed that the academic successes of students in traditional and vocational colleges vary significantly and computed with graphical illustration as well as case study. The use of smart instruction has dramatically increased the success of teachers and students has been firmly researched in this paper. The simulation results illustrate that the suggestedmodelhas a high student's performance ratio of 98.6%, a prediction ratio of 95.7%, a student engagement ratio of 94.6%, a task analysis ratio of 96.8%, an efficiency ratio of 97.8% when compared to other existing methods.
Estimation of the critical points of an epidemic by means of a logistic growth model
Authors: Allaman Ivan Bezerra , Jelihovschi Enio Galinkin
Published: July 2021

Epidemiological models have become a very important tool in understanding an epidemic’s development, mainly because they help researchers find more efficient strategies in their fight against its spread. Several models have been proposed up to now: some use fractional calculus to solve differential equations while others use applications from other areas such as predatorprey models. The SIR and SEIR models, among others, mainly focus on the variable response and on epidemiological parameters such as the basic reproduction number (R0) and infection rate per unit of time, nevertheless they do not focus on the variable ‘time’. We propose the use of the variable time, as the main variable, by using a reparametrization in the logistic model since it will lead to the understanding of the epidemic as it goes along the time. Moreover, this model is important because it allows the estimation of the points of acceleration and deceleration, the point of maximum growth and the asymptotic point of the epidemic. This is only possible by getting an stable epidemic curve with an ‘S’ shape. In this work we use the variable ‘accumulated cases’ of COVID-19 of China and Italy and point out the main socioeconomic facts that occurred in each period of the estimated critical points from the logistic growth model.
Premature Mortality Attributable to COVID-19: Potential Years of Life Lost in 17 Countries Around the World, January-August 2020
Authors: Ugarte Maider Pagola , Achilleos Souzana , Quattrocchi Annalisa , Gabel John , Kolokotroni Ourania , Constantinou Constantina , Nicolaou Nicoletta , Rodriguez-Llanes Jose-Manuel , Huang Qian , Verstiuk Olesia , Pidmurniak Nataliia , Tao Jennifer Wenjing , Burström Bo , Klepac Petra , Erzen Ivan , Chong Mario , Barron Manuel , Hagen Terje Per , Kalmatayeva Zhanna , Davletov Kairat , Zucker Inbar , Kaufman Zalman , Kereselidze Maia , Kandelaki Levan , Meur Nolwenn Le , Goldsmith Lucy , Critchley Julia , Pinilla Maria Angelica , Jaramillo Gloria Isabel , Teixeira Domingos , Goméz Lara Ferrero , Lobato Jackeline , Araújo Carolina , Cuthbertson Joseph , Bennett Catherine M , Polemitis Antonis , Charalambous Andreas , Demetriou Christiana A
Published: July 2021

BackgroundUnderstanding the impact of the burden of COVID-19 is key to successfully navigating the COVID-19 pandemic. As part of a larger investigation on COVID-19 mortality impact, this study aims to estimate the Potential Years of Live Lost (PYLL) in 17 countries and territories across the world (Australia, Brazil, Cape Verde, Colombia, Cyprus, France, Georgia, Israel, Kazakhstan, Peru, Norway, England & Wales, Scotland, Slovenia, Sweden, Ukraine, and the United States).MethodsAge- and sex-specific COVID-19 death numbers from primary national sources were collected by an international research consortium. The study period was established based on the availability of data from the inception of the pandemic to the end of August 2020. The PYLL for each country were computed using 80 years as the maximum life expectancy.ResultsAs of August 2020, 442,677 (range: 18-185,083) deaths attributed to COVID-19 were recorded in 17 countries which translated to4,210,654 (range: 112-1,554,225)PYLL. The average PYLL per death was 8.7 years, with substantial variation ranging from 2.7 years in Australia to 19.3 PYLL in Ukraine.North and South American countries as well as England & Wales, Scotland and Sweden experienced the highest PYLL per 100,000 population; whereas Australia, Slovenia and Georgia experienced the lowest.Overall, males experienced higher PYLL rate and higher PYLL per death than females. In most countries, most of the PYLL were observed for people aged over 60 or 65 years, irrespective of sex.Yet, Brazil, Cape Verde, Colombia, Israel, Peru, Scotland, Ukraine, and the USA concentrated most PYLL in younger age groups.ConclusionsOur results highlight the potential of PYLL as a tool to understand the impact of COVID-19 on demographic groups within and across countries, guiding preventive measures to protect these groups under the ongoing pandemic. Continuous monitoring of PYLL is therefore needed to better understand the burden of COVID-19 in terms of premature mortality.
Tocilizumab Treatment Reduces Mortality in Hospitalized Patients with COVID-19
Authors: Saliaj  , Li BCCCP BCPS PharmD Matthew , Rizzo  , Nassar  , Nso  , Idrees Zarwa , Medina Luis A. , Novikov Anastasia , Yaghi Salim , Cuevas Francisco J. , Salafia  , Razaki BCPS PharmD Hamid , Berman Charles , Sachmechi Issac , Trandafirescu Theo , Brennessel Debra , Martin George T. , Mantis Jazila
Published: July 2021

Aims This study aimed to investigate the potential of tocilizumab therapy in minimizing mortality and mechanical ventilation (MV) requirements among hospitalized COVID-19 patients.Methods A single-center, retrospective, observational cohort study of 375 patients with severe COVID-19 (March 1 and April 22, 2020) included 150 patients treated with Tocilizumab and 225 consecutive control patients adjusted for age and gender. Both groups received concomitant standard of care treatments in addition to Tocilizumab. The statistical methods relied on survival analyses, conditional logistic regression models, and contingency analyses. The primary outcomes included in-hospital mortality and the MV requirement.Results Tocilizumab associated with improved in-hospital mortality (34.7% vs 46.7%, P = 0.0136) and lower requirement for MV on days 1, 3, and 5 after treatment (P = 0.005, P < 0.0001, and P = 0.0021, respectively). Lower mortality was observed if tocilizumab was administered within 48 hours after admission (P = 0.0226). Older age and low blood oxygen saturation on admission decreased the odds of survival (P < 0.005).Conclusion Our study demonstrates a significant reduction in mortality and decreased requirement of MV with tocilizumab treatment in addition to the standard of care. Early administration of Tocilizumab within 48 hours reduces the risk of mortality.
The rise and fall of Alpha and Beta variants of SARS-CoV2 in Finland in spring of 2021
Authors: Kant Ravi , Nguyen Phuoc Truong , Blomqvist Soile , Erdin Mert , Alburkat Hussein , Suvanto Maija , Zakham Fathiah , Salminen Veera , Olander Viktor , Paloniemi Minna , Huhti Leena , Lehtinen Sara , Luukinen Bruno , Jarva Hanna , Kallio-Kokko Hannimari , Kurkela Satu , Lappalainen Maija , Liimatainen Hanna , Hannula Sari , Halkilahti Jani , Ikonen Jonna , Ikonen Niina , Helve Otto , Gunell Marianne , Vuorinen Tytti , Plyusnin Ilya , Lindh Erika , Ellonen Pekka , Sironen Tarja , Savolainen-Kopra Carita , Smura Teemu , Vapalahti Olli
Published: July 2021

Two SARS-CoV-2 Variants of Concern, Alpha (~ 80%) and Beta (~ 23%) rapidly became dominant in Finland in the spring of 2021 but diminished near summer. To assess their temporal epidemiological dynamics among Finnish cases, we began large-scale sequencing efforts to identify spreading events and sources via phylogenetic clustering analyses. The results show the majority belonged to clusters spreading in the community while few sequenced samples were singletons. The results highlight the importance of surveillance and preventative policies in controlling the epidemic.
Spatial Estimation of Soil Erosion Using RUSLE Modeling: the Case of kaffa Zone, South western Ethiopia
Authors: Anteneh Mesfin , Biru Dereje
Published: July 2021

This research was administered to spatially predict the soil loss rate of kaffa zone using model estimate and GIS. Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation (RUSLE) adapted to Ethiopian conditions was accustomed estimate potential soil losses by utilizing information on rainfall erosivity (R) using interpolation of rainfall data, soil erodibility (K) using DSMW soil map, vegetation cover (C) using Sentinel-2A satellite images, topography (LS) using Digital Elevation Model (DEM) and conservation practices (P ) using DEM and satellite images. supported the analysis, the mean and total annual soil loss potential of the study area was 30 tons ha-1 year-1 and 36264.5tons ha-1 year-1, respectively. The result also showed that about 2.89, 8.02, 15.31 and 73.78% of the study area were classified a slight, moderate, high and very high with values ranging 0 to 15 ,15 to50,50 to 200, and > 200 tons ha-1 year-1, respectively. The study demonstrates that the RUSLE using GIS and RS provides great advantage to spatially analyze multi-layer of knowledge. The expected amount of soil loss and its spatial distribution could facilitate sustainable land use and management.
Study on multi-objective optimization of X12M steel milling process by reference ideal method
Authors: Nguyen Lam Khanh
Published: July 2021

For all machining cutting methods, surface roughness is a parameter that greatly affects the working ability and life of machine elements. Cutting force is a parameter that not only affects the quality of the machining surface but also affects the durability of cutter and the level of energy consumed during machining. Besides, material removal rate (MRR) is a parameter that reflects machining productivity. Workpiece surface machining with small surface roughness, small cutting force and large MRR is desirable of most machining methods. Milling is a popular machining method in the machine building industry. This is considered to be one of the most productive machining methods, capable of machining many different types of surfaces. With the development of the cutting tool and machine tool manufacturing industries, this method is increasingly guaranteed with high precision, sometimes used as the final finishing method. Milling using a face milling cutter is more productive than using a cylindrical cutter because there are multiple cutter s involved at the same time. This article presents a study of multi-objective optimization of milling process using a face milling cutter. The experimental material used in this study is X12M steel. Taguchi method has been applied to design an orthogonal experimental matrix with 27 experiments (L27). In which, five parameters have been selected as the input parameters of the experimental process including insert material, tool nose radius, cutting speed, feed rate and cutting depth. The Reference Ideal Method (RIM) is applied to determine the value of input parameters to ensure minimum surface roughness, minimum cutting force and maximum MRR. Influence of the input parameters on output parameters is also discussed in this study
Development of a method for assessment and forecasting of the radio electronic environment
Authors: Sova Oleg , Shyshatskyi Andrii , Salnikova Olha , Zhuk Oleksandr , Trotsko Oleksandr , Hrokholskyi Yaroslav
Published: July 2021

Decision making support systems (DSS) are actively used in all spheres of human life. The system of the electronic environment analysis is not an exception. However, there are a number of problems in the analysis of the electronic environment, for example: the signals are analyzed in a complex electronic environment against the background of intentional and natural interference. Input signals do not match the standards, and their interpretation depends on the experience of the operator (expert), the completeness of additional information on a particular task (uncertainty condition). The best solution in this situation is found in the integration with the data of the information system analysis of the electronic environment, artificial neural networks and fuzzy cognitive models. Their advantages are also the ability to work in real time and quick adaptation to specific situations. The article develops a method for assessing and forecasting the electronic environment.

Improving the efficiency of evaluation information processing is achieved through the use of evolving neuro-fuzzy artificial neural networks; learning not only the synaptic weights of the artificial neural network, the type and parameters of the membership function. The efficiency of information processing is also achieved through training in the architecture of artificial neural networks; taking into account the type of uncertainty of the information that has to be assessed; synthesis of rational structure of fuzzy cognitive model. It reduces the computational complexity of decision-making; has no accumulation of learning error of artificial neural networks as a result of processing the information coming to the input of artificial neural networks. The example of assessing the state of the electronic environment showed an increase in the efficiency of assessment at the level of 15–25 % on the efficiency of information processing
No Association of MicroRNA-146a rs2910164 Polymorphism and Risk of Primary Gout Development in Chinese Han Populations: A Case-control Study
Authors: Qing Yu-Feng , Zhang Quan-Bo , Dai Fei , Huang Yu-Qin , Zheng Jian-Xiong , Tang Yi-Ping , Dong Zeng-Rong , Wang Shun-Bing
Published: July 2021

Background:

Previous studies demonstrated that MicroRNA-146a (miR-146a) plays an
important role in the regulation of autoinflammatory diseases including primary gout. The G/C polymorphism
(rs2910164) in the precursor sequence of miR-146a caused its stem region to change
from G: U to C: U,which can contribute to the susceptibility of human diseases. However, no genetic
relevance studies of miR-146a gene polymorphisms to gout have been reported by now.

Objective:

The purpose of this study was to analyze the association between the miR-146a
rs2910164 genetic polymorphism and the susceptibility of the Chinese Han population to primary
gout.

Method:

1130 Chinese Han participants (including 606 primary gout patients and 524 gender and
age-matched healthy control subjects) were recruited and the 5'exonuclease TaqMan® technology
was used to perform miR-146a rs2910164 genotyping.

Result:

After statistical analysis, no significant differences were observed between gout patients
and healthy controls in genotype and allele frequency.

Conclusion:

Our results indicate that there is no evidence for the involvement of the miR-146a
rs2910164 polymorphisms in susceptibility to primary gout in the Chinese Han population.
New Key-Dependent S-Box Generation Algorithm on AES
Authors: Das Proteeti , Munshi Najmul Hoque , Maitra Subhasis
Published: July 2021

Aims:

Cryptography means 'hidden secrets'. The primary purpose of cryptography is to protect
networks and data over a wireless communication channel. The cryptographic approach secures the
data of a network from any internal or external attacks.

Background:

There are several kinds of cryptographic techniques, such as Data Encryption Standard
(DES), RSA (Rivest- Shamir- Adleman), Advanced Encryption Standard (AES), Blowfish, Twofish,
etc. Out of these algorithms, AES shows wide acceptance for its superiority in providing confidentiality
to secret information. Another cause for extensive acceptance is that AES is simple, convenient to implement,
has a low charge, and higher security. Several changes have been proposed to modify AES by
cryptographers and researchers all around the world.

Objective:

This research paper offers a new key-dependent s-box generation algorithm for AES.

Methods:

A list of irreducible polynomials of degree 8 is used to generate the s-box depending on the
secret key to provide more invulnerable ciphertext in comparison to standard AES. This design of this
proposed model is easy and convenient to implement than different dynamic s-box technology algorithms.

Results :

The metrics chosen for overall performance evaluation are Frequency Distribution, Chi-square
Test, Avalanche Effect, and Strict Avalanche Criterion.

Conclusion:

The proposed algorithm satisfies the desired property of these metrics and provides better
security in contrast to standard AES.
Review on the Development of Jute Polyethylene Nanocomposites as a
Function of Fiber Chemical Treatments
Authors: Hossen Md. Faruk , Asraf Md. Ali , Kudrat-E-Zahan Md. , Zakaria Choudhary M.
Published: July 2021

:

The research on jute fiber reinforced polymer composites is an emergent concern with the
development of new materials due to their significant properties like economical, partially biodegradable,
and environment friendly. It is wondered that the hydrophilic nature of jute fiber negatively affects
the interfacial interaction with hydrophobic polymeric materials in the composite, which then affects
the resultant mechanical, microstructural and physico-chemical absorption properties. In order to overcome
this fact, researchers have carried out some techniques for fiber surface chemical treatments. On
the other hand, due to the low processing costs and design flexibility, thermoplastics deal many benefits
over thermoset polymers, and polyethylene shows excellent processing behaviors such as low density,
low cost, considerable flex life, outstanding surface hardness, scratch resistance and good electrical
insulator. Besides the traditional thermoplastic and thermosetting polymers, montmorillonite
nanoclay is also receiving attention to manufacturing fiber polymer nanocomposites for industrial and
household applications as well. This review is considered to highlight the progress of jute fiber reinforced
polymer nanocomposites. The study also focuses on the several features of jute polymer composites
and nanocomposites as a function of fiber chemical treatments.
Design and Analysis of Novel Non-Reversible & Reversible Parity Generator
and Detector in Quantum Cellular Automata using Feynman Gate
Authors: Tripathi Neeraj , Fazili Mohammad Mudakir , Jahangir Rahil
Published: July 2021

Aim:

A novel design for non-reversible as well as reversible parity generator and detector in
Quantum-dot Cellular Automata (QCA) technology is presented in this research article. Parity generator
and detector circuits are reliable error-checking components of a nano-communication system.

Objective:

The main focus of this research is to design an ultra-low-power fault-tolerant reversible gate
implementation of the parity logic function in QCA. An efficient QCA design layout with minimal area,
less latency and the least energy dissipation is desired.

Methods:

The proposed designs are developed using Quantum-dot Cellular Automata (QCA) technology.
The circuits are optimized using majority gate reduction and clock zone reduction techniques. Also,
the cell-cell interaction technique is employed to further optimize the QCA circuit. To increase the
fault tolerance and ultra-low power operation, reversible QCA circuits are designed using cascaded
Feynman gates.

Results Conclusion:

The efficiency of the parity generator and detector is calculated to be more than
25% compared to existing QCA layouts. It is demonstrated in this paper that the proposed circuits perform
exceptionally well on every design parameter. The design parameters under consideration are cell
count, cell area, complexity, crossover count, latency and energy dissipation.

Conclusion:

Using reversible logic, a fault-tolerant and defect-sensitive circuit are developed for parity
generation and detection.
INVESTIGATION OF IMPEDIMENT FACTORS IN PROPERTY TAX REVALUATION PRACTICES
Authors: Abd Rahman Nor Azalina Yusnita , Senawi Asma , Mohamed Saraf Mohamad Haizam , Che Pin Siti Fairuz
Published: July 2021

Property tax is a form of taxation payable by real estate owners on their holdings because of their ownership or possession of the property. In Malaysia, a property tax revaluation is done once every five years or within an extended period as determined by the state government. However, the Ministry of Housing and Local Government Malaysia has recorded that most local authorities have not revalued their property for almost 35 years. Thus, the researchers conducted a focus group interview to identify the impediments in a revaluation of property tax among local authorities. The participants consisted of forty-three (43) officers from twentytwo (22) local authorities in the West of Malaysia. Data from focus groups identified were transcribed and analyzed using thematic analysis. Findings from the focus group revealed four (4) main impediment factors, namely (1) lack of knowledge in property tax revaluation paperwork, (2) lack of workforce, (3) cost constraints, and (4) time-consuming.
AGENCIES' MANAGEMENT PREPARATIONS AND PROPOSED EVACUATION ROUTES FOR FLOOD DISASTER: A CASE STUDY OF MELAKA
Authors: Mohamad Muhammad Rijal , Bachok Syahriah , Mohd Zahari Mohammad Zarif , Olabayonle Oladejo Aliu , M. Zulkifli Nur Afiqah
Published: July 2021

The research focuses on the flooding event in Melaka. Flooding has been occurring so frequently in Melaka that assessing the management and preparation for flooding needs to be undertaken. Alor Gajah, Melaka has been selected as a case study because frequent flooding events in the district affected many people. Using FGD as a data collection method, the result showed there is no management structure of flooding events beyond the district level and a proper training for the community is required before the structure can be developed. The original hierarchy and functions under Directive 20 should be maintained. This research suggested a proper institutionalisation of flood management and flood rehabilitation structure for Alor Gajah's district.
APPLICATION OF GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION SYSTEM (GIS) AND ANALYTIC HIERARCHY PROCESS (AHP) TECHNIQUE TO STUDY LAND USE CHANGES IN PENDANG, KEDAH
Authors: Othman Abdul Ghapar , Hj Ali Kausar , Asli Wan Mohammad Fazil
Published: July 2021

Urbanization process has a significant impact on land use planning. It not only affects major cities but also extends to small towns in rural areas where it has a significant role in providing urban services to rural communities. The expansion of urban areas also resulted in the loss of many agricultural lands as well as forests that are rich in natural resources. In both instances, the land use composition is substantially affected. This study uses a "mixed method approach" combining GIS spatial analysis and AHP technique to study land use changes, identify land use growth parameters, determine land use growth suitability areas and identify the direction of urban land use development. The study area is the town of Pendang, which is the main administrative centre for Pendang District, Kedah. The main findings of the study show that changes were not that significant during the period between 2005 to 2012. However, significant land use changes occurred during the period of 2012 to 2020, especially in agricultural land use, vacant land and even water bodies. These land use changes have contributed to the increase in built-up areas. The direction of development is seen heading north, south and southwest of the study area. Accessibility is a major factor influencing the growth of land use and development direction in the study area.
FACTORS INFLUENCING RIDERSHIP PREFERENCE IN USING LRT SERVICE IN KLANG VALLEY, MALAYSIA
Authors: Ab Majid Rohayu , Said Rosli , Abdullah Jamalunlaili , Ngah Rohana , Kwong Qi Jie
Published: July 2021

Light Rail Transit (LRT) is one of the public transports that provides a lot of benefits to the Malaysian. Yet this consumption depends on the diverse tastes of potential ridership which are influenced by various factors. However, it is very challenging to predict significant factors influencing ridership preferences. As such, the identification of these factors is very important in ensuring this transportation service really attract ridership attention. Thus, this paper intends to identify the main factors that influence ridership preference in taking LRT transportation. 28 attributes have been identified in this research which expands from four (4) main components. Data were collected from ridership’s survey, site observations and ridership statistical data. Pearson Chi-square has been employed to justify the significant status and the influence level of each LRT attribute and component factors toward ridership preference. The results show that 23 attributes recorded a significant status (<0.00) in two (2) different directions of correlation. Overall, three (3) component factors namely i) Comfortable Service, ii) Economics and iii) Indoor Environment Conditions, have influenced and contributed to the same effect on ridership considerations, as compared to the negative effects displayed by the Site Design Attributes.
THE TOURISTS’ SPATIAL BEHAVIOUR AND TOURIST MOVEMENT PATTERN IN MUAR JOHOR
Authors: M Noor Azman Nor Afifin Nadia , Abd Rahman Nur Hidayah , Md Sawari Siti Salwa , Abas Siti Aisah , Abdul Latif Samshul Amry
Published: July 2021

Unsystematic transportation system and accessibility, fewer tourism packages supply, and disorganised digital marketing strategy in destination management are the factors of the limitation of the tourist movement in a destination. Therefore, this research aims to determine the characteristics of the tourist’s spatial behaviour and tourist movement pattern in Muar, Johor. This research implemented a qualitative method through the semi-structured interview, which involved seven respondents who visited Muar, Johor. The result shows the characteristics of tourists’ spatial behaviour and tourist’s movement pattern has a significant interaction in investigating visiting characteristics, spatial data and movement. In the context of the macro-level movement pattern, the findings indicate that Muar has the potential to be developed as a one-day trip and three days one-night trip destination. Hence, it has positively affected tourism destination management to improve the travel package for domestic and international tourists. The main contribution of this research is to apply the mutual understanding of the tourist movement concept among visitors in investigating the complex visitor movement during travel related to the physical environment factor such as attractions, route and accessibility, and mode of transportation influenced by tourists’ spatial behaviour. This study can also be a primary reference for Muar local authority and destination management to ameliorate many aspects of creating an efficient tourist movement considering sustainable development in the urban heritage area.
Changes in Rat Weight due to Homocysteine Injection as an Animal Model of Alzheimer's Disease
Authors: Rizma Amalina , Wasita Brian , Probandari Ari
Published: July 2021

Homocysteine in one of the compounds used to induced alzheimer’s disease in rats. Hyperhomocysteinemia triggers oxidative stress, nerve inflammation and the formation of amyloid-beta in the brain. This can affect a brain region involved in appetite regulation, which leads to weight loss. This study aimed to analyzed weight changes of rats injected with homocysteine for 7, 14 and 21 days. Nine of Sprague dawley rats, aged 8-12 weeks with weight ranging between 150-200 grams, were randomly divided into three groups. The first group was injected with homocysteine for 7 days. The second and third groups received injections with homocysteine for 14 and 21 days respectively. The rats were weighed before treatment and in 7, 14, and 21 days after homocysteine injection. The average weight of rats in each group increases of 3.33±1.15, 5.00±2.00, and 2.33±3.51 grams, respectively. There was a significant difference in weight between before and after homocysteine injection for 7 days in the first group (p=0.038) and 14 days in the second group (p=0.049), while the weight of rats in the third group did not have a significant change (p=0.369). There was no significant difference in weight among the group after homocysteine injection (p=0.182). The weight of alzheimer’s model rats increased slowly after being injected with homocysteine for 7, 14, and 21 days. The low weight gain is similar to the condition of alzheimer’s patients who generally experience weight loss. It is necessary to monitor the food intake of alzheimer’s patients to prevent further weight loss.
PENINGKATAN KADAR INSULIN TIKUS WISTAR (Rattus norvegicus) JANTAN YANG DIINDUKSI STREPTOZOTOSIN AKIBAT PEMBERIAN EKSTRAK ETANOL BATANG BROTOWALI (Tinospora crispa L.)
Authors: Ashari Ayu -
Published: July 2021

Brotowali stems (Tinospora crispa L.) contain flavonoids which act as antioxidants and are expected to have the potential to reduce blood glucose levels and increase insulin levels in mice due to STZ induction. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of brotowali stem ethanol extract (EEBB) on insulin levels in STZ-induced male Wistar rats. Measurement of mouse insulin levels using the mouse insulin ELISA kit method. The results showed that the ethanol extract of brotowali rods at a dose of 450 mg / kgBW rats were significantly different (<0.05) between the hyperglycemic control group and the EEBB treatment group showing an increase in the mean insulin levels of the rats after being given EEBB for 10 days. Brotowali stems can be used for the treatment of natural ingredients with flavonoid content.

 