bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Experimental Study and Numerical Simulation of the Wetting Settlement of Remolded Loess
Authors: Cao Jie , Pang Bo , Li Youfeng , Zhao Haiyuan , Lü Xilin
Published: June 2023

By conducting collapsibility test, the changing rule of collapsibility coefficient of remolded loess is obtained. According to the numerical simulation method of equivalent humidity field with temperature field, the collapsibility coefficient is converted into temperature change, so the calculation of wetting settlement is realized. The results show that the collapsibility coefficient of loess decreases significantly with the increase of compaction degree and initial water content. It increases first and then decreases with the increase of overlying pressure at lower compaction degree, while increases gradually with the increase of overlying pressure at higher compaction degree. The numerical simulation based on the theory of equivalent humidity field with temperature field can accurately simulate the wetting settlement test results of remolded loess.
Enhancement of microwave dielectric behavior by substitution of W6+ for Mo6+ in Li2Mg1.91Na0.18Mo3O12 ceramics
Authors: Li Fuyu , Li Yuanxun
Published: June 2023

Microwave dielectric ceramics with low dielectric constants are widely used in the design and fabrication of microwave devices. Here, low-temperature sintered Li2Mg1.91Na0.18Mo3-x
W
x
O12 (LMNMWO) (x takes values from 0 to 0.15) ceramics are prepared by the solid-phase reaction technology. XRD and BSE patterns indicated that W6+ is solidly dissolved into the lattice and exhibits an overall single phase. The dielectric properties of the ceramics are effectively enhanced by the substitution of Mo6+ for W6+. The trends of density and SEM microscopic morphology show that the trace W6+ substitution can effectively promote grain growth and enhance grain homogeneity. The results indicate that the Q×f values are related to the relative density and grain homogeneity. The EDS spectrum demonstrates that the ratio of elements is close to the chemical formula of Li2Mg1.91Na0.18Mo2.95W0.05O12. The trend of τf values is related to the lattice distortion generated when W6+ is irregularly solidified into the lattice. Specifically, dielectric properties of the substituted LMNMWO (x = 0.05) ceramics are determined as follows: εr
= 8.3, Q×f = 48357 GHz, and τf = -59 ppm/°C.
Impact Test of Ultra-High Performance Concrete Slab with Basalt Fiber
Authors: Wang Cancan , Wu Hongjian , Zhu Zhenkun , Wu Zhifeng , Liu Xiangquan , Wu Junjie
Published: June 2023

In order to study the impact resistance performance of ultra-high performance concrete (UHPC) slab with basalt fiber, the experiment of six concrete slabs was conducted. The following factors were considered in this study: different basalt fiber types, steel mesh, and water-based epoxy mixture. The drop weight method was used, and the effect of various factors on the impact resistance performance of ultra-high performance concrete slab with basalt fiber were investigated in details. The test results showed that the basalt fiber could significantly increase the impact resistance of UHPC slab. The basalt fiber with a long length after cracking was more significant to improve the impact resistance performance of UHPC slab. The basalt fiber, steel mesh, and water-based epoxy can significantly improve the impact resistance and energy absorption capacity of UHPC slab. The ductility coefficient of UHPC slabs are less than 0.6.
The Failure Analysis of Ф 88.9mm × 6.45mm P110 Tubing Fracture Used in A Well in Western Chinca
Authors: Kuang XianRen , Hu FangTing , Zhu Haizhou
Published: June 2023

In this paper, it aims at the fracture tubing of Ф88.9mm×6.45mm P110 used in a well, magnetic particle flaw detection, material physical and chemical property test and scanning electron microanalysis system are used to carry out macro dimension measurement, defect flaw detection, chemical analysis, mechanical property test, metallographic structure observation, macro and micro morphology observation and micro area composition analysis of the fractured tubing. The results show that the fracture of the tubing belongs to sulfide stress corrosion cracking, which is mainly due to the use of non sulfur resistant tubing in sulfur-containing, resulting in a large number of sulfide stress corrosion cracks on the outer wall of tubing until fracture.
Investigation on Features Extraction of Defect Signals Using Support Vector Machine and Multi-feature Fusion
Authors: Fan Shuli , Qi Yunpeng , Kong Qingzhao
Published: June 2023

This article investigated the sensitivity of each acoustic feature to steel plate defects through the coin-tapping method in order to improve acoustic detection methods precision and intelligent detection efficiency. 87 acoustic characteristic parameters of detection signals were researched including time domain, frequency domain, and time-frequency domain. 10 kinds of percussion conditions were designed to meet the two classifications of acoustic signals. The degree of contribution of acoustic parameters to damage detection was arranged by sensibility analysis, which could be used as a basis for selecting acoustic parameters for similar structural damage detection. The characteristic vectors of various parameter combinations were determined as the inputs of the acoustic detection method by analysing the sensitivity and correlation of different parameters. The multi-parameter feature vector with low redundancy was obtained by correlation analysis, which could be used as a combination method of the input value of the damage recognition classifier. The results show that the zero-crossing rate, main frequency and time-frequency domain parameters have high damage sensitivity, and there are always low-correlation feature pairs between them. The research results provide solutions for the selection and combination of feature parameters for similar data classification problems.
Study on the Convergence of Surrounding Rock in Shallow Buried Unsymmetrical Pressure Tunnel Construction
Authors: Hu Yu , Wang Genzhong , Zhou Min , Hu Wangjing , Ye Jin , Gao Wenxue
Published: June 2023

In order to study the evolution law of tunnel convergence deformation during the construction of shallow buried unsymmetrical pressure tunnel, the deformation characteristics and evolution law of shallow buried unsymmetrical pressure tunnel during the three-step construction method are studied based on the background of Qingshui No. 2 tunnel project and numerical simulation. The results show that: with the tunneling, when the tunneling depth is less than 40m, the settlement deformation gradually decreases, and the maximum settlement is at the entrance; When the tunnel footage is greater than 40m, the settlement deformation first increases and then decreases. The maximum settlement of the arch crown is 15m in front of the tunnel face, while the maximum settlement of the arch shoulder is 20m in front of the tunnel face; The maximum value of arch waist convergence appears at 10m in front of the tunnel; The effective combination of numerical simulation and monitoring technology can provide guidance for engineering practice.
Correlation coefficient estimation of red chili (Capsicum annuum L) stomatal parameters under shade treatment condition
Authors: Putra G M D , Sutiarso L , Nugroho A P , Ngadisih
Published: June 2023

Stomatal is the most crucial part of plant organs that function as the gas exchange between CO2 and O2 in the environment through diffusion. Optimal stomatal performance can improve the quality of plant growth. This research aimed to determine the relationship between stomatal parameters and the production of red chili (Capsicum annuum L) under shade treatment conditions. This research was conducted in the field with three kinds of treatments, namely (1) control (without shade), (2) 50% shade, and (3) 80% shade. The parameters observed in this study were the number of stomatal, pore stomatal, stomatal area. The data were then analyzed using the correlation coefficient (r) calculation approach. The results showed that the closest relationship was found in the stomatal area variable with a pore area of 0.98. The stomatal characteristic that has the closest relationship with the production of red chili (Capsicum annuum L) is the pore area with a value of r = 0.73. These results indicate that pore area can be used as an indicator of crop production level.
Vegetation index value on chili leaves with symptoms of geminivirus disease (case study in Konda district, Konawe Selatan regency, Southeast Sulawesi)
Authors: Taufik M , Firihu M Z , Hasan A , Variani V I , Gusnawaty H S , Botek M
Published: June 2023

Expression of symptoms on chili plants infected with the Geminivirus can vary. This variation can be determined by viral satellite DNA (alphasatellites, betasatellites, deltasatelites) and the degree of plant resistance. The visual limitations of the human eye become an obstacle in recognizing and assessing the severity of plant virus symptoms in the field. It is hoped that an assessment method based on the normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) value obtained from the processing of symptomatic plant images is expected to be a solution. No precise information has been found regarding the magnitude of the NDVI value in each variation of virus symptoms in chili plants. It can be an obstacle in the application of this method. The study aimed to measure the value of NDVI for each variation in the symptoms of virus-infected chili plants. Field survey activities accompanied by image recording of symptomatic and asymptomatic plants were carried out in curly chili plantations (as a model plant) in Konda District, South Konawe Regency, Southeast Sulawesi Province. Plant image recording was carried out during the day using a Canon 750D DSLR camera equipped with an NDVI lens filter, followed by image processing using the Fiji-ImageJ application + the Photo Monitoring plugin. The results showed that plants with various symptoms of severe mottle, narrow leaves, uneven leaf surface, mosaic, and stunting had an average NDVI index higher than 0.269 and a lower standard deviation value of 0.024 compared to other variations of symptoms.
Use of Tower System in Vertical Farming Technique
Authors: Putri R E , Oktavionry P A , Arlius F , Putri I , Hasan A
Published: June 2023

Vertical agriculture in urban areas is a new phenomenon where interest is needed in order to develop. The objective of the research is to develop the tower system in vertical farming technique. In this research, tower could produce 624 plants. This tower is made using PVC pipe with 26 holes per tower. Each set of towers is equipped with an irrigation system, namely a water pump to drain nutrient water in the pipe. The way this monitoring system works is that the ESP 32 Series is connected to a voltage source so that it will be integrated to turn on and the system will check the ESP 32 Series connection with the internet. Sensors will be active and read data, when the DHT22 sensor detects a temperature of 33° then the fan will turn on, also if humidity <60% then the misting will turn on. The monitoring system works well. Data from temperature and humidity readings can be controlled and known. The average plant height of Bok choy is 8.89 cm, leaf width is 7.40 cm, leaf length is 10.33 cm, and the number of leaves is 10.24 strands. So, this system recommended to increasing the production in urban area.
Estimation of Rice Plant Growth Phase in Gunung Talang District Based on Vegetation Index
Authors: Yanti D , Safira S , Tjandra M A , Permata D A
Published: June 2023

Determining the growth phase of rice plants is an efficient approach to get the right cultivation step. Remote sensing technology can provide solutions and convenience in monitoring the growth phase of rice plants through a spatial analysis covering a relatively large area. One of the remote sensing sensors that can capture images of the location with its specifications is the MODIS sensor carried by satellites, which uses NDVI (Normalized Difference Vegetation Index) values. This research aims to determine the regression equation and the range of NDVI values to predict the growing phase of rice plants in Gunung Talang District. Making a working map for observations in the field is the beginning of the research. Observation location is a grid that covers a rice field area of 45%, data obtained from image processing using ArcGis. Regression analysis between plant age (days after planting) and NDVI values to get the equation and range of NDVI values based on the growing phase. Based on the analysis, the regression equation used to predict the age of plants in determining the phase of rice growth in Gunung Talang District with y as the NDVI value = -0.0001009781 x2 + 0.0134279009 x + 0.2870285679, x as the age of rice plants (days after planting) the value of the coefficient of determination (R2) of the regression equation is 0.82. The range of values of each phase is the aqueous phase <0.4552; vegetative phase (1) 0.4552-0.6910; vegetative phase (2) 0.6910-0.7314; generative phase (1) 0.7314-0.6570; generative phase (2) 0.6570-0.5423 and fallow phase 0.3261-0.443.
Introducing a new variety of interspecific Acacia hybrid (Acacia mangium × A. auriculiformis) for renewable biomass energy
Authors: Sunarti S , Nirsatmanto A , Kartikawati N K , Putri A I , Herawan T , Haryjanto L , Lestari F , Rimbawanto A , Ramadan A , Herdyantara B
Published: June 2023

An interspecific Acacia hybrid between Acacia mangium and A. auriculiformis has various phenotypic characteristics. The hybrid progenies usually show better growth which is important to support wood-based industry. However, information on other potential uses of the species for renewable biomass energy was still limited. This study aims to observe the potency of Acacia hybrid as raw material for renewable bioenergy. The study was done in three permanent plots in clonal trial of Acacia hybrid established in Central Java following the method of SNI 7724-2011. The tree morphologies were characterized including stem form, branching, and crown-shape characteristic. Wood biomass and energy potential of the species was observed and derived from the growth and wood basic density. The result showed that there was various tree morphology in terms of leaf and stem form within the Acacia hybrid trees. At six years of age, the average of wood biomass was 37.85 Mg.ha−1 derived from the average of 13.9 m (height), 16.5 cm (DBH), and 567 kg.m−3 (wood basic density). While the estimated energy potential ranged from 14.50 to 21.99 toe.ha−1. The results of the study indicate that wood from the Acacia hybrid would be the potential resources for renewable biomass energy.
Renewable Energy Test - Biogas As Fuel In Otto Cycle
Authors: Siahaan Herbert Hasudungan
Published: June 2023

The use of renewable energy such as biogas is a must to support the achievement of the targets that have been echoed through the go green campaign, namely public awareness of the clean air environment. The power of the otto cycle combustion engine is highly dependent on the conversion and heat of combustion (% CH4 in biogas) as well as the stoichiometric fuel-air ratio requirements. A performance test of the otto cycle motor fueled with biogas with various methane contents has been carried out. It was found that biogas with 95% CH4 at 3000 rpm produces the highest power of 3.906 kW, compared to the power of gasoline, but with a 4.8% decrease in power. Meanwhile, the average power produced from biogas with 55% CH4 content is 2,296 kW. The average torque of the biogas engine (95% CH4) is 7,609 (N.m) and the highest is 9,014 (N.m), but still 24% lower than the gasoline engine. The most efficient operation of the engine fueled with biogas was observed at 1,831 L/h biogas consumption as opposed to 1.4 L/h when the engines was run using gasoline. In other words, a lower % of CH4 was attained with a x% increase in fuel consumption. The average specific fuel consumption (SFC) of biogas (95% CH4) is 0.717 kg/kW.h, on the other hand, the gasoline engine is 0.395 kg/kW.h. The highest thermal efficiency of a biogas engine attained at maximum loading can match the efficiency of an ideal gasoline engine, which is close to 25%.
Value chains and market analysis for the potential commodity of Tuah Tani Tonggak Negeri forest farmers group
Authors: Kurniawan H , Sutrisno E , Frianto D , Yunianto AS , Novriyanti E , Wahyudi A
Published: June 2023

The pattern of community involvement in forest edges has become a new trend in forest area management. KHDTK Kepau Jaya deployed a collaborative peat forest management program through the empowerment of the Forest Farmers Group (KTH) Tuah Tani Tonggak Negeri in a conservation partnership scheme. Therefore, the types of commodities with the most expanse potential were then identified. Furthermore, it was necessary to analyze the market chain, supply chain, and value-added from the potential commodities. This study employed a qualitative descriptive SWOT analysis while the market chain and value-added were analyzed by using value chain analysis by the Hayami method. The results found that red chili was the most potential commodity to be cultivated in the area of KHDTK Kepau Jaya by the KTH. This commodity had a turnover of IDR 47,000,000. The levels of the marketing chain were generally simple. Even though the biggest profit was obtained by UD Anugrah Tani, in this case, the largest percentage of added value per unit commodity was obtained by the farmers. The total value added in the first and second supply chain types were IDR 52,250,000 and IDR 4,562,000, respectively.
Approximate of C/N Ratio for Ameliorant Formulations from Local Resources in Horticultural Production Centers, Banuhampu Agam
Authors: Herviyanti  , Maulana A , Lita A L , Fathi A N M , Monikasari M , Amalia F , Guspita A , Nursyam E A , Putri A M I , Habazar T , Noer M , Lita R P , Refdi C W
Published: June 2023

The carbon-to-nitrogen ratio of organic matter refers to the proportion of carbon to nitrogen present and is the basis for determining the quality of ameliorant. Amelioration technology is a solution for increasing soil and plant productivity in an agricultural area using local resources (biomass and waste). This study aims to determine the estimated C/N ratio of the formulation of ameliorant. This research used a completely randomised design with three replications of fifteen treatments by four formulation ameliorants. The primary local resources are biochar from bamboo biomass, green fertiliser from Tithonia diversifolia, chicken manure from livestock waste, and compost from agricultural waste. The estimated C/N ratio for the formulation of ameliorant from local resources in the Horticultural Production Center of Banuhampu Agam is 2.89 (TGF+CM) to 17.75 [biochar bamboo (BB)]. It explains that organic substrates sourced experience rapid mineralisation and release N so that N is available for plant absorption. The correlation of C/N on the characteristics of ameliorant formulations shows that it has a significant effect on C [r = 0.720** or C = 0.1689 (C/N) + 3.2857; R2 = 0.5185] and N [r = -0.763** or N = - 0.051(C/N) + 1.1629; R2 = 0.5815]. The results of the formulation of ameliorant from local resources show that the Organic C of 2.53% (BB+TGF) until 7.59% [biochar bamboo (BB)] have a positive correlation and Total N of 0.29% [Thitonia green fertiliser (TGF)] until 1.30% (TGF+CM+CA) have a negative correlation to C/N ratio. Adding BB can increase the C/N ratio of the ameliorant formulation due to its carbon sequestration and using TGF+CM for the lower C/N ratio application needed.
The effects of different pineapple wastes on soil chemical properties and growth and yield of Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L.)
Authors: Kamaruddin N F H , Adam S , Boll Kassim N Q
Published: June 2023

The high demand for pineapple fruit generates several waste products that can be recycled through composting. This study examined the impact of pineapple waste compost on the chemical properties of soil and its effect on growth and yield of okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L.). T0 (control), T1 (pineapple peel compost), and T2 (pineapple core compost) of pineapple compost were added to the okra growth medium, and these treatments were arranged in a Randomised Complete Block Design (RCBD) along with five replications. The pineapple peel and core compost were applied at a homogeneous rate (10% of the volume of the polybag). The treatments were applied one week before the transplants of the okra seedlings. Base fertiliser NPK Green (15:15:15) was applied one week after transplanting, with the same amount for all treatments. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to compare all of the data in this study, and the Tukey Test to separate the statistically different means at p<0.05. There was no significant (p≥0.05) variation in plant growth characteristics such as plant height, leaf number, fruit number, root length, and plant biomass in this study. Pineapple peel compost (T1) showed better growth performance than other treatments except for the parameter of root length. The application of pineapple waste compost enhanced soil pH, macronutrients (K, Ca, and Mg), and micronutrients (Zn, Cu, and Mn). However, no significant (p≥0.05) differences were identified except for soil pH, exchangeable calcium (Ca), and total zinc (Zn). Using both composts revealed that they could improve the chemical properties of the soil, which led to better plant growth compared to the control treatment (T0).
Removal of Ammonium by Biochar Derived from Exhausted Coffee Husk (ECH) at Different Carbonisation Parameter
Authors: Puari A.T , Rusnam  , Yanti N.R
Published: June 2023

The present of nitrogen compounds in the form of ammonium (NH4
+) can contribute to serious pollution problems in surface water and groundwater. Among the most competitive ways, the physical removal method using low-cost biosorbent is considered an effective technique. However, compared to heavy metals and organic, less effort has been dedicated to exploring the potential ability of biochar as a biosorbent for ammonium removal. This study was focused on investigating the adsorption capacity of biochar from exhausted coffee husk (ECH) on ammonium in the aqueous solution. The biochar was produced at the different carbonization temperature (400 – 700 °C) and carbonization time (1-4h). The results showed that carbonization temperature of 700 °C during 1h of carbonization time was resulted in the highest adsorption capacity which was 1,13 mg/g of NH4
+. Several characterizations were conducted for observing surface morphological and pores area with scanning electron microscope (SEM) and Brunauer Emmert Teller (BET), respectively. The results showed that the pores were developed with the increasing temperature and resulted in higher absorbance.
Yield and biomass under the different water levels on three Japonica rice cultivars
Authors: Ichwan N , Oue H , Yuliawan T , Augustine U
Published: June 2023

Water level management is one factor in producing a higher rice yield. The objective of this study was to compare the effects of different water levels on the yield and biomass of three Japonica rice cultivars, i.e., Nikomaru (NM), Himenorin (HR), and Hinohikari (HH). Rice was transplanted in totally nine plastic boxes with dimensions of 96.0 x 45.8 x 35.8 cm, and with a soil particle density of 1.46 g cm−3. Each box contained 10 hills of rice with 3 seedlings per hill. Water levels were controlled as 2, 5, and 10 cm for each cultivar from 70 days after transplanting. We measured yield and biomass from 3 selected plants on each box. The highest yield was obtained with 5 cm for NM, with 10 cm for HR, and with 10 cm for HH as 7.68, 7.73, and 6.90 t ha−1, respectively. For NM, yield with 10 cm was 4.4% lower than with 5 cm, however, the harvest index (HI) with 10 cm was higher compared with 5 cm due to the lower biomass, but not significantly. Both for HR and HH, HI with 10 cm was the highest. We suggested that keeping the water level at 10 cm could produce a higher grain yield compared with shallower water level ponding for all cultivars.
Effects of Long Blanching Time on Nutritional Composition of Seablite (Suaeda Maritima) Flour
Authors: Maflahah I , Supriyanto S , Asfan DF
Published: June 2023

Seablite (Suaeda Maritima) can be used as raw material for functional salt. This study aims to determine the effect of blanching time on the nutritional composition of seablite: moisture, ash, protein, fat, carbohydrate, salinity, and vitamin A. The research design used a wholly randomized non-factorial design with variations in blanching time (0, 3, 6, and 9 minutes). Making saeblite flour begins with cleaning the Seablite, blanching according to the time specified in the research design, draining, and flouring to make it into Seablite flour. Based on the results of blanching time analysis on the nutritional composition of seablite, there was an interaction between the length of blanching time on the moisture content, ash content, carbohydrate content, vitamin A, and salinity of seablite plant flour. Still, there was no reaction between the length of blanching time on the protein and fat content of seablite plant flour.
The effect of surimi formulation on the physical and organoleptic quality of kambu crab in Salemo Island
Authors: Riastutik D N , Syarifuddin A , Tawali A B
Published: June 2023

The by product of crab processing in the form of shells can be processed into kambu crab, a special food from Salemo Island, Pangkep Regency, South Sulawesi. Indonesia. Kambu crab is now rare because it is made from crab meat which is an expensive commodity. One effort to take advantage of this by-product is to make kambu crab based on barracuda fish surimi. This study aims to determine the effect of the use of surimi formulation on the physical and organoleptic qualities of kambu crabs. The experimental design used in this study was a completely randomized design (CRD) with surimi formulation treatment with a mixture of tapioca flour and sago flour, namely P1=80%:0%, P2=70%:10%, P3=60%:20%, P4=50%:30%, P5=40%:40%. The parameters observed in this study were organoleptic tests including aroma, taste, and texture while the physical tests include folding test, bite test, water holding capacity, and elasticity. Based on the results of organoleptic tests on aroma, taste and texture, the best assessment was obtained in treatment P2 = 70%:10% with the results of physical analysis including folding and biting tests, namely 3.61 and 6.48, water holding capacity of 60.10% and elasticity of 0.45 (kg/cm2/second).
The effect of adding syzygium cumini on the quality of the piper retrofractum vahl product
Authors: Hidayat K , Mu’tamar M F F , Firmansyah R A , Auliyana M
Published: June 2023

Piper retrofractum Vahl is one type of medicinal plant that the people of Indonesia often use. Piper retrofractum Vahl contains piperine alkaloids, cavicin, piperidine, saponins, polyphenols, essential oils, palmitic acid, and tetrahydropiperic acid. Syzygium cumini contains anthocyanins such as a source of antioxidants. Therefore, it is necessary to research the effect of the concentration of the addition of Syzygium cumini on the product quality of Piper retrofractum Vahl. The research method used in this study was a factorial, completely randomized design (CRD) with six treatments and three repetitions. Analysis of the tests used was brewing time, color test, sensory test, and polyphenol content test. The results of this study indicate that based on the test, the brewing time of the Piper retrofractum Vahl formulation with the addition of Syzygium cumini, according to the panelists’ preference, is 5 minutes. The results of the test of polyphenol levels in the Piper retrofractum Vahl formulation with the addition of Syzygium cumini, which contains a lot of polyphenols, namely in treatment 6:1 with a brewing time of 3 minutes, 5 minutes, and 10 minutes the polyphenol content is 4.88 mg/100g; 6.65 mg/100g; and 7.05 mg/100g.
Antifungal activity of Ageratum conyzoides extract against Fusarium oxysporum in Musa spp
Authors: Nur Hazirah M F , Hamizah O , Wan Natasya W A
Published: June 2023

Ageratum conyzoides though considered an invasive, troublesome weed has been proven beneficial due to its antifungal properties, making it a promising component for the development of environmentally friendly fungicides. In this study, the plant extract derived from Ageratum conyzoides is tested for its antifungal property against Fusarium oxysporum, fungi that have been causing devastating disease among the banana plant also known as the Fusarium wilt or Panama disease. In vitro antifungal assay of the plant extract with different concentrations (4%, 6%, 8% and 10%) derived from several parts of the plant, such as the leaf, inflorescence and stem were tested against the Fusarium oxysporum by using poisoned food technique and its mycelial growth are recorded to calculate the inhibition percentage. From the study, all the plant extracts derived from the different parts were able to inhibit the mycelial growth of Fusarium oxysporum although maximum inhibition was observed on the inflorescence extract with 10% concentration, followed by leaf extract with 8% concentration and stem extract with 10% concentration. In conclusion, there is a possibility for Ageratum conyzoides plant extract with higher concentration to pose as a natural fungicide against Panama disease.
Discriminate geographical origin of cabe jamu (Piper retrofractum vahl) using nir spectral fingerprints– a short review
Authors: Mu’tamar M F F , Hidayat K , Mahardika A P , Firmansyah R A , Sucipto S
Published: June 2023

Cabe jamu is categorized as the primary material for the jamu industry because it contains an active compound that provides a health benefit. Furthermore, some area in east java is known as the central production of cabe jamu. Almost 80% of the plant area is located at Madura Island, covering Bangkalan, Sampang, Pamekasan, and Sumenep. Agricultural products have different characteristics when planted at different locations because of climate, soil, and environmental condition. However, counterfeit practice deteriorates the specialty of products for economic purposes. Several techniques were developed detection system of products based on geographical origin or authenticity. This paper aims to explore potential technology that is able to evaluate the authentication of products and potentially applied to cabe jamu. Overall, several strategies were obtained from this literature study to provide the high-accuracy classification of cabe jamu related to geographical origin: Coupling NIR spectroscopy with chemometrics, utilization of multiple techniques like other vibrational spectroscopy or non-vibrational spectroscopy, and use of data fusion approach to elevate the accuracy of the classification model.
Hydrothermal synthesis and characterization of TiO2-silica composites for dye-sensitized solar cell electrode
Authors: Sule R. , Makinde O.C , Usikalu M. R. , Olawole O.C
Published: June 2023

The current world energy crisis and increase in global temperature has further necessitated the need to conduct more research on solar cells. Dye sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) remain one of the cheapest solar cell technologies, but it has inherent challenges. Titanium dioxide (TiO2) remains one of the suitable electrode materials, but it requires modification to withstand the current solar cells technology problems. In this paper, silica was produced from rice husk and incorporated into TiO2to tailor its wide band gap. Hydrothermal method was used to synthesize

TiO2-silica composites at 150°C. The energy band gap of virgin TiO2, TiO2-4.8 wt% silica and 20 wt% silica was found to be 3.73 eV, 2.91 eV and 2.85 eV respectively. The addition of 4.8 wt% silica resulted in good stability of anatase TiO2compared to the 20 wt% silica judging from the absorbance plots.
Coatings and the environment: a review of problems, progress and prospects
Authors: Adeboye S.A. , Adebowale A.D. , Siyanbola T.O. , Ajanaku K.O.
Published: June 2023

Coatings are surface protection applications providing decorative, functional, or both applications on their applied substrates. Its application on substrates can be ingases, liquids, or solids. The environmental issues stemming from coating application, especially those from petroleum base feedstock, cannot be over-emphasised.This paper is poised to examine the merits of biodegradable synthesised polymeric coatings from a renewable source (plant seed oils).Using seed oil as a feedstock for organic coatings involves functionalising the seed oil to create a reactive site for polymerisation.The use of nanoparticles also helps to fine-tune coatings properties, and sometimes they provide thermal stability, adhesion, chemical resistance, electrical conductivity, anticorrosive, antimicrobial, hydrophobicityproperties, etc.
Background gamma radiation and associated health implications for Ifo-Dagbolu-Ajakaye, Ogun state
Authors: Babarimisa I. O. , Usikalu M. R. , Omeje M.
Published: June 2023

The need for safe habitat in view of the demands of Sustainable Development Goal 3 - sound health and wellbeing, calls for attention to ascertain the level of exposure of gamma radiation to man and the environment. Keeping the levels of specific activities of naturally occurring radionuclides (NORs) within safety limits will help in attaining the Sustainable Development Goal 3-“Good Health and Well-being”. Background gamma dose rates and activity concentrations of NORs: 40K, 238U, and 232Th in an agrarian settlement, Ifo-Dagbolu-Ajakaye, Ogun State, Southwest Nigeria, was surveyed using an Ultra-rugged Super-spec RS-125 gamma spectrometer. The respective mean values of the background gamma dose rates and specific activities of 40K, 238U, and 232Th were 14.96 nGyh−1; 31.60, 16.54 and 12.91 Bqkg−1. The values of the specific activities were used to estimate the associated radiological health parameters and the values obtained were lower when compared with their corresponding United Nations Scientific Committee on the Effects of Atomic Radiation (UNSCEAR) permissible limits. Hence the levels of the activity concentrations of the studied NORs do not present health hazards to the dwellers in the examined station.
A blob method for inhomogeneous diffusion with applications to multi-agent control and sampling
Authors: Craig Katy , Elamvazhuthi Karthik , Haberland Matt , Turanova Olga
Published: June 2023

As a counterpoint to classical stochastic particle methods for linear diffusion equations, such as Langevin dynamics for the Fokker-Planck equation, we develop a deterministic particle method for the weighted porous medium equation and prove its convergence on bounded time intervals. This generalizes related work on blob methods for unweighted porous medium equations. From a numerical analysis perspective, our method has several advantages: it is meshfree, preserves the gradient flow structure of the underlying PDE, converges in arbitrary dimension, and captures the correct asymptotic behavior in simulations.

The fact that our method succeeds in capturing the long time behavior of the weighted porous medium equation is significant from the perspective of related problems in quantization. Just as the Fokker-Planck equation provides a way to quantize a probability measure

ρ
¯

\bar {\rho }

by evolving an empirical measure
<mml:math xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" alttext="rho Superscript upper N Baseline left-parenthesis t right-parenthesis equals StartFraction 1 Over upper N EndFraction sigma-summation Underscript i equals 1 Overscript upper N Endscripts delta Subscript upper X Sub Superscript i Subscript left-parenthesis t right-parenthesis">

ρ
N

(
t
)
=

1
N

∑

i
=
1

N

δ

X
i

(
t
)

\rho ^N(t) = \frac {1}{N} \sum _{i=1}^N \delta _{X^i(t)}

according to stochastic Langevin dynamics so that

ρ
N

(
t
)

\rho ^N(t)

flows toward

ρ
¯

\bar {\rho }

, our particle method provides a way to quantize

ρ
¯

\bar {\rho }

according to deterministic particle dynamics approximating the weighted porous medium equation. In this way, our method has natural applications to multi-agent coverage algorithms and sampling probability measures.

A specific case of our method corresponds to confined mean-field dynamics of training a two-layer neural network for a radial basis activation function. From this perspective, our convergence result shows that, in the overparametrized regime and as the variance of the radial basis functions goes to zero, the continuum limit is given by the weighted porous medium equation. This generalizes previous results, which considered the case of a uniform data distribution, to the more general inhomogeneous setting. As a consequence of our convergence result, we identify conditions on the target function and data distribution for which convexity of the energy landscape emerges in the continuum limit.
Convergent expansions and bounds for the incomplete elliptic integral of the second kind near the logarithmic singularity
Authors: Karp Dmitrii , Zhang Yi
Published: June 2023

We find two series expansions for Legendre’s second incomplete elliptic integral

E
(
λ
,
k
)

E(\lambda , k)

in terms of recursively computed elementary functions. Both expansions converge at every point of the unit square in the

(
λ
,
k
)

(\lambda , k)

plane. Partial sums of the proposed expansions form a sequence of approximations to

E
(
λ
,
k
)

E(\lambda ,k)

which are asymptotic when

λ
\lambda

and/or

k
k

tend to unity, including when both approach the logarithmic singularity

λ
=
k
=
1

\lambda =k=1

from any direction. Explicit two-sided error bounds are given at each approximation order. These bounds yield a sequence of increasingly precise asymptotically correct two-sided inequalities for

E
(
λ
,
k
)

E(\lambda , k)

. For the reader’s convenience we further present explicit expressions for low-order approximations and numerical examples to illustrate their accuracy. Our derivations are based on series rearrangements, hypergeometric summation algorithms and extensive use of the properties of the generalized hypergeometric functions including some recent inequalities.
Unified analysis of finite-size error for periodic Hartree-Fock and second order Møller-Plesset perturbation theory
Authors: Xing Xin , Li Xiaoxu , Lin Lin
Published: June 2023

Despite decades of practice, finite-size errors in many widely used electronic structure theories for periodic systems remain poorly understood. For periodic systems using a general Monkhorst-Pack grid, there has been no comprehensive and rigorous analysis of the finite-size error in the Hartree-Fock theory (HF) and the second order Møller-Plesset perturbation theory (MP2), which are the simplest wavefunction based method, and the simplest post-Hartree-Fock method, respectively. Such calculations can be viewed as a multi-dimensional integral discretized with certain trapezoidal rules. Due to the Coulomb singularity, the integrand has many points of discontinuity in general, and standard error analysis based on the Euler-Maclaurin formula gives overly pessimistic results. The lack of analytic understanding of finite-size errors also impedes the development of effective finite-size correction schemes. We propose a unified analysis to obtain sharp convergence rates of finite-size errors for the periodic HF and MP2 theories. Our main technical advancement is a generalization of the result of Lyness [Math. Comp. 30 (1976), pp. 1–23] for obtaining sharp convergence rates of the trapezoidal rule for a class of non-smooth integrands. Our result is applicable to three-dimensional bulk systems as well as low dimensional systems (such as nanowires and 2D materials). Our unified analysis also allows us to prove the effectiveness of the Madelung-constant correction to the Fock exchange energy, and the effectiveness of a recently proposed staggered mesh method for periodic MP2 calculations (see X. Xing, X. Li, and L. Lin [J. Chem. Theory Comput. 17 (2021), pp. 4733–4745]). Our analysis connects the effectiveness of the staggered mesh method with integrands with removable singularities, and suggests a new staggered mesh method for reducing finite-size errors of periodic HF calculations.
Primitive 4-generated axial algebras of Jordan type
Authors: De Medts Tom , Rowen Louis , Segev Yoav
Published: June 2023

We show that primitive 4-generated axial algebras of Jordan type are at most 81-dimensional.
Exotic closed subideals of algebras of bounded operators
Authors: Tylli Hans-Olav , Wirzenius Henrik
Published: June 2023

We exhibit a Banach space

Z
Z

failing the approximation property, for which there is an uncountable family

F

\mathscr F

of closed subideals contained in the Banach algebra

K

(
Z
)

\mathcal K(Z)

of the compact operators on

Z
Z

, such that the subideals in

F

\mathscr F

are mutually isomorphic as Banach algebras. This contrasts with the behaviour of closed ideals of the algebras

L

(
X
)

\mathcal L(X)

of bounded operators on

X
X

, where closed ideals

I

≠

J

\mathcal I \neq \mathcal J

are never isomorphic as Banach algebras. We also construct families of non-trivial closed subideals contained in the strictly singular operators

S

(
X
)

\mathcal S(X)

for classical spaces such as

X
=

L
p

X = L^p

with

p
≠
2

p \neq 2

, where pairwise isomorphic as well as pairwise non-isomorphic subideals occur.
Efficient fusion requires a membrane anchor on the vacuolar Qa-SNARE
Authors: Wickner William , Lopes Karina , Song Hongki , Rizo Josep , Orr Amy
Published: June 2023

A transmembrane anchor on the Qa-SNARE supports fusion even when the other 2 Q-SNAREs are un-anchored, and this function is not replaced by a Qb or Qc SNARE anchor. Anchor specificity is even seen when HOPS, the physiological SNARE assembly catalyst, is replaced by an artificial tether. A Qa anchor is thus fundamental to membrane fusion.
FARL-11 (STRIP1/2) is required for sarcomere and sarcoplasmic reticulum organization in C. elegans
Authors: Martin Sterling C. T. , Qadota Hiroshi , Oberhauser Andres F. , Hardin Jeff , Benian Guy M.
Published: June 2023

Protein phosphatase 2A forms a STRIPAK complex when it includes the targeting B’’’ subunit “striatin” and STRIP1. STRIP1 is required for formation of endoplasmic reticulum. We show that in muscle, STRIP1 is required for organization of sarcoplasmic reticulum and sarcomeres.
Social Worker Working Conditions and Psychological Health: A Longitudinal Study
Authors: Ravalier J M , Allen R , McGowan J
Published: June 2023

Good social work benefits the recipients of the social worker role, social workers themselves, their employing organisations and society more broadly. However, it is difficult to conduct consistently good social work when social workers have been shown to have chronically poor working conditions. This article, therefore, outlines UK social worker working conditions and well-being from 2022, as well as comparing these results to surveys conducted in 2017 and 2018. We, therefore, report a series of cross-sectional surveys, in addition to open-ended questions, to collect data from 533 respondents in 2022, and compare these to findings from similar surveys in previous years. Results demonstrate that working conditions improved slightly between 2018 and 2022, although these conditions are still very poor compared with other occupations. Qualitative analyses suggest that work-load, resources, lack of respect and lack of consistent and good quality reflective supervision are significant issues for respondents. As such, we argue that policy makers and employers need to provide greater support for social worker working conditions and well-being, and that this support would likely negate current high levels of turnover and sickness absence. Additionally, however, for the first time in these surveys, poor pay also emerged as an issue needing attention.
Drug repurposing for COVID-19: current evidence from randomized controlled adaptive platform trials and living systematic reviews
Authors: Augustin Yolanda , Staines Henry M , Velavan Thirumalaisamy P , Kamarulzaman Adeeba , Kremsner Peter G , Krishna Sanjeev
Published: June 2023

Introduction

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic resulted in a race to develop effective treatments largely through drug repurposing via adaptive platform trials on a global scale. Drug repurposing trials have focused on potential antiviral therapies aimed at preventing viral replication, anti-inflammatory agents, antithrombotic agents and immune modulators through a number of adaptive platform trials. Living systematic reviews have also enabled evidence synthesis and network meta-analysis as clinical trial data emerge globally.

Sources of data

Recent published literature.

Areas of agreement

Corticosteroids and immunomodulators that antagonize the interleukin-6 (IL-6) receptor have been shown to play a critical role in modulating inflammation and improving clinical outcomes in hospitalized patients. Inhaled budesonide reduces the time to recovery in older patients with mild-to-moderate COVID-19 managed in the community.

Areas of controversy

The clinical benefit of remdesivir remains controversial with conflicting evidence from different trials. Remdesivir led to a reduction in time to clinical recovery in the ACTT-1 trial. However, the World Health Organization SOLIDARITY and DISCOVERY trial did not find a significant benefit on 28-day mortality and clinical recovery.

Growing points

Other treatments currently being investigated include antidiabetic drug empagliflozin, antimalarial drug artesunate, tyrosine kinase inhibitor imatinib, immunomodulatory drug infliximab, antiviral drug favipiravir, antiparasitic drug ivermectin and antidepressant drug fluvoxamine.

Areas timely for developing research

The timing of therapeutic interventions based on postulated mechanisms of action and the selection of clinically meaningful primary end points remain important considerations in the design and implementation of COVID-19 therapeutic trials.
Leucocyte-derived micro-RNAs as candidate biomarkers in Brugada syndrome
Authors: Steinberg Christian , Gaudreault Nathalie , Papadakis Andreas I , Henry Cyndi , Champagne Jean , Philippon François , O’Hara Gilles , Blier Louis , Plourde Benoit , Nault Isabelle , Roy Karine , Sarrazin Jean-François , Spatz Alan , Bossé Yohan
Published: June 2023

Aims

Risk stratification for sudden cardiac death in patients with Brugada syndrome remains a major challenge. Contemporary risk prediction models have only modest predictive value. The aim of this study was to assess the role of micro-RNAs from peripheral blood as candidate biomarkers in Brugada syndrome.

Methods and results

In this prospective study, Brugada patients and unaffected control individuals were enrolled for analysis of leucocyte-derived microRNAs (miRNAs) levels. Expression levels of 798 different circulating miRNAs were analysed on the NanoString® nCounter platform. All results were cross-validated by using a quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Micro-RNA expression levels of Brugada patients were compared with clinical data. A total of 21 definite Brugada patients (38% with a history of ventricular arrhythmia or cardiac arrest) and 30 unaffected control individuals were included in the study. Micro-RNA analysis showed a distinct expression profile in Brugada patients with 42 differentially expressed markers (38 up-regulated, 4 down-regulated miRNAs). The symptom status of Brugada patients was associated with a distinct miRNA signature. Micro-RNAs 145-5p and 585-3p were significantly up-regulated in symptomatic Brugada patients (P = 0.04). Incorporating miRNAs 145-5p and 585-3p into a multivariable model demonstrated significantly increased symptom prediction (area under the curve = 0.96; 95% confidence interval: 0.88–1.00).

Conclusion

Brugada patients display a distinct miRNA expression profile compared with unaffected control individuals. There is also evidence that certain miRNAs (miR-145-5p and miR-585-3p) are associated with the symptom status of Brugada patients. The results suggest the principal utility of leucocyte-derived miRNAs as prognostic biomarkers for Brugada syndrome.