bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Short-lived intermediate in N
2
O generation by P450 NO reductase captured by time-resolved IR spectroscopy and XFEL crystallography
Authors: Nomura Takashi , Kimura Tetsunari , Kanematsu Yusuke , Yamada Daichi , Yamashita Keitaro , Hirata Kunio , Ueno Go , Murakami Hironori , Hisano Tamao , Yamagiwa Raika , Takeda Hanae , Gopalasingam Chai , Kousaka Ryota , Yanagisawa Sachiko , Shoji Osami , Kumasaka Takashi , Yamamoto Masaki , Takano Yu , Sugimoto Hiroshi , Tosha Takehiko , Kubo Minoru , Shiro Yoshitsugu
Published: May 2021

Significance

The short-lived intermediate formed during the reduction of nitric oxide (NO) to nitrous oxide (N
2
O) in denitrification, microbial anaerobic respiration, is a key state for understanding the generation mechanism of N
2
O, known not only as a greenhouse gas but also as an ozone-depleting substance on the global level. This paper combined state-of-the-art, time-resolved techniques, such as flow-flash infrared spectroscopy and X-ray free electron laser-based crystallography, and captured the intermediate of a P450-type NO reductase at the atomic and electronic levels. The intermediate was identified as a singly protonated Fe
3+
–NHO
•−
radical, offering insights into a radical–radical coupling mechanism for the N–N bond formation in N
2
O generation.
The unintended consequences of US immigration enforcement policies
Authors: Ryo Emily
Published: May 2021

Significance

Every day, thousands of immigrants in the United States are held in immigration detention under conditions that are no different than those facing the criminally incarcerated. Thousands of other immigrants are deported to their countries of origin without the opportunity to be heard before an immigration judge. US policymakers hope that these punitive enforcement policies will deter individuals from attempting to enter the United States without authorization. Yet this study of individuals in El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Mexico finds no evidence that such policies change their intentions to migrate to the United States. On the other hand, the survey analysis indicates that immigration detention may foster beliefs that the US immigration system lacks procedural and outcome fairness.
Roles of KLF4 and AMPK in the inhibition of glycolysis by pulsatile shear stress in endothelial cells
Authors: Han Yue , He Ming , Marin Traci , Shen Hui , Wang Wei-Ting , Lee Tzong-Yi , Hong Hsiao-Chin , Jiang Zong-Lai , Garland Theodore , Shyy John Y.-J. , Gongol Brendan , Chien Shu
Published: May 2021

Significance

This work identifies mechanotransduction mechanisms by which blood flow regulates glycolysis in vascular endothelium. We demonstrate that atheroprotective flow pattern decreases glycolysis, an energy-demanding metabolic process, in endothelium in vitro and in vivo. GCKR, an inhibitor of glycolytic flux, is up-regulated by atheroprotective flow, in contrast to the down-regulation of other glycolysis genes. As a pioneer transcription factor induced by atheroprotective flow, KLF4 epigenetically remodels the GCKR promoter and thus transactivates GCKR. At the posttranslational level, atheroprotective flow–activated AMPK phosphorylates GCKR and hence increases GCKR binding to hexokinase, the key enzyme in glycolysis. The translational significance of these findings builds on the identification of these atheroprotective mechanisms in an animal model with a high level of voluntary wheel running.
Hypothenemus hampei (coffee berry borer).
Authors: Baker Peter
Published: May 2021

H. hampei, otherwise known as the coffee berry borer, is the most serious pest of coffee in many of the major coffee-producing countries in the world. The scolytid beetle feeds on the cotyledons and has been known to attack 100% of berries in a heavy infestation. Crop losses can be very severe and coffee quality from damaged berries is poor. H. hampei has been transported around the world as a contaminant of coffee seed and very few coffee-producing countries are free from the borer. Its presence in Hawaii was confirmed in 2010 and Papua New Guinea and Nepal remain free of the pest: in Papua New Guinea an incursion prevention programme was mounted in 2007 (ACIAR, 2013) to reduce chances of invasion from Papua Province (Indonesia). There is no simple and cheap method of control of H. hampei.
Epiphyas postvittana (light brown apple moth).
Authors: Suckling D.
Published: May 2021

E. postvittana is a small, bell-shaped moth, whose caterpillars feed on a very wide range of plants. The eggs, larvae and pupae can be associated with plant material and readily transported. The pest status of this insect in horticultural crops is very significant. It is native to Australia and was distributed to New Zealand, Hawaii, New Caledonia and the UK with apples [Malus domestica] or other plant material in the late 1800s. It has since spread throughout lowland New Zealand, and in recent years has spread through southern parts of the UK, and Ireland. In Hawaii, it appears to be confined to altitudes above 1100 m, and can largely be considered a pest of temperate regions.
Commercial finance for development: a back door for financialisation
Authors: Karwowski Ewa
Published: May 2021

The global Covid-19 pandemic has accelerated a trend under way for the last decade: the enlistment of private-sector commercial finance for development. This finance can be brought in through (1) regular cross-border flows, (2) blended finance and (3) impact bonds. This briefing argues that intensified foreign financial inflows are likely to draw African economies further into financialisation, which increases financial instability and can undermine the democratic process, jeopardising just socio-economic development. Specifically, the short-termism of portfolio flows requires costly reserve accumulation, foreign direct investment exposes firms to demands for shareholder value generation, and external debt introduces exchange rate risk for domestic borrowers.
Rab40–Cullin5 complex regulates EPLIN and actin cytoskeleton dynamics during cell migration
Authors: Linklater Erik S. , Duncan Emily D. , Han Ke-Jun , Kaupinis Algirdas , Valius Mindaugas , Lyons Traci R. , Prekeris Rytis
Published: May 2021

Rab40b is a SOCS box–containing protein that regulates the secretion of MMPs to facilitate extracellular matrix remodeling during cell migration. Here, we show that Rab40b interacts with Cullin5 via the Rab40b SOCS domain. We demonstrate that loss of Rab40b–Cullin5 binding decreases cell motility and invasive potential and show that defective cell migration and invasion stem from alteration to the actin cytoskeleton, leading to decreased invadopodia formation, decreased actin dynamics at the leading edge, and an increase in stress fibers. We also show that these stress fibers anchor at less dynamic, more stable focal adhesions. Mechanistically, changes in the cytoskeleton and focal adhesion dynamics are mediated in part by EPLIN, which we demonstrate to be a binding partner of Rab40b and a target for Rab40b–Cullin5-dependent localized ubiquitylation and degradation. Thus, we propose a model where Rab40b–Cullin5-dependent ubiquitylation regulates EPLIN localization to promote cell migration and invasion by altering focal adhesion and cytoskeletal dynamics.
Experimental determination of first Townsend ionization coefficient in mixtures of He and N2
Authors: Talviste Rasmus , Paris Peeter , Raud Jüri , Plank Toomas , Jõgi Indrek
Published: May 2021

First Townsend ionization coefficient α in gas mixture of He with N2 is relevant for modeling of the development and chemical activity of atmospheric pressure plasma jets. This study determined α from measurements of current versus electrode separation in a steady-state non-self-sustaining Townsend discharge set-up. The measurements were carried out in absolute pressure range of 10–800 Torr and reduced electric field E/N range of 20–1000 Td. The effect of the N2 concentration in the gas mixture on the density normalized ionization coefficient α/N depended on the reduced electric field strength E/N. At E/N values below 200 Td, increased N2 content reduced the α/N while at E/N values above 200 Td, increased N2 content increased the plateau value of α/N. Reasonably good coincidence was observed between calculation performed with Bolsig+ and measured α/N. The discrepancy between experimental results and calculations at N2 percentage in the mixture below 5% and E/N values below 200 Td can be attributed to the Penning effect.
Floquet scattering of quadratic band-touching semimetals through a time-periodic potential well
Authors: Bera Sandip , Mandal Ipsita
Published: May 2021

We consider tunneling of quasiparticles through a rectangular quantum well, subject to periodic driving. The quasiparticles are the itinerant charges in two-dimensional and three-dimensional semimetals having a quadratic bandtouching (QBT) point in the Brillouin zone. To analyze the time-periodic Hamiltonian, we assume a non-adiabatic limit where the Floquet theorem is applicable. By deriving the Floquet scattering matrices, we chalk out the transmission and shot noise spectra of the QBT semimetals. The spectra show Fano resonances, which we identify with the (quasi)bound states of the systems.
Modified gravity in the interior of population II stars
Authors: Chowdhury Shaswata , Sarkar Tapobrata
Published: May 2021

We study the effects of a beyond-Horndeski theory of modified gravity
in the interior of a population II star. We consider a simple phenomenological model of a
1.1M
☉ star that has left the main sequence, has a thin Hydrogen burning shell with a partially degenerate
isothermal core, surrounded by a radiative envelope having two regions of distinct opacities.
Using suitable matching conditions at the two internal boundaries, a numerical analysis of the resulting
stellar equations in modified gravity is carried out. While overall, gravity may be weakened, resulting in a decrease of
the luminosity and an increase of the radius of the star, some of these effects are reversed near the core.
It is suggested how the model, within its limitations, can yield a bound on the modified gravity parameter.
Ordinary Least Squares based on Fourier Series Residuals for fitting the Modified Exponential Growth Model
Authors: Kamar Saifaldin Hashim , Msallam Basim Shlaibah , Uraibi Hassan S.
Published: May 2021

It is well-known that grey system theory was put forward in the statistical literature to overcome the problem of partially unknown parameters, therefore it is given the attention of the researchers in many scientific areas. Therefore, many methods have been presented in which the grey system is combined with the Fourier series and others for more accurate prediction. This paper presents a methodology to modify the method of least squares based on Fourier series residuals that are computed by using grey system theory. The objective of this methodology is to improve the estimates of a modified exponential growth model. The performance of the proposed method by using simulation is compared with two famous methods and the results show our proposed method outperforms more than others and it is highly efficient and reliable. On the practical, the new method was used to predict the price of a barrel of crude oil for the OPEC basket for the period from Jul 2019 to Dec 2019, and It can be seen that OPEC basket prices will decline in the end of 2019.
Comparison of methods for estimating the reliability of arriving for the Burr distribution
Authors: Al-Sabbah Shrook A S , Shaymaa Mahood M , Abood Ahmed Hamza
Published: May 2021

The paper deals with the comparison between the methods of estimating the reliability of arriving at the time of the trip for the Burr distribution, namely (Maximum likelihood method, the Bayes method, the non-linear least squares method). We are comparing among the three estimation methods using the simulation method. To make an understanding of the best method for estimating the reliability of arriving at the Burr distribution through a comparison between the three methods, an integrative mean square error standard (IMSE) was used, as the simulation results showed the preference of the Bayes method over the other methods.
Topological Data Analysis For Evaluating PDE-based Denoising Models
Authors: Al-Jaberi Ahmed K. , Hameed Ehsan M.
Published: May 2021

Image denoising is process of removing the noise (i.e. artifacts) in digital image. Noise reduction is an essential process of image processing in order to improve, analyze and interpret important information in an image. Edges are important to the visual appearance of images, to preserve important features such as edges and corners during the noise reduction process. A class of fourth- and second-order partial differential equations (PDEs) are used to optimize the trade-off between noise removal and edge preservation. Image quality assessment plays an important role in various image processing applications. It is still an active field of research. Several techniques have been suggested for measuring image quality but none of them are ideal for measuring the quality. This paper presents a new assessment of image quality based on topological data analysis (TDA) which is used for evaluating noise removal from colour images and also for assessing the performance of PDE-based denoising models. The experimental results show that the proposed assessment model gives high correlation. Furthermore, the proposed method provides very low computational load and similar extraction of characteristics to human perceptional assessment.
Smoothing parameter selection in kernel nonparametric regression using bat optimization algorithm
Authors: Mustafa Marwah Yahya , Algamal Zakariya Yahya
Published: May 2021

In the context of kernel nonparametric regression, the curve estimation is fully depending on the smoothing parameter. At this point, the nature-inspired algorithms can be used as an alternative tool to find the optimal selection. In this paper, a bat optimization algorithm method is proposed to choose the smoothing parameter in Nadaraya-Watson kernel nonparametric regression. The proposed method will efficiently help to find the best smoothing parameter with a high prediction. The proposed method is compared with four famous ` of prediction capability.
Bayesian and Non-Bayesian Parameters Estimation of Gamma distribution at Various Loss Functions
Authors: Rasheed Huda A. , Naji Loaiy F.
Published: May 2021

This paper deals with some Estimator of Bayes s of the parameters of Gamma distribution (GD) under three different loss functions, represented via Precautionary loss function, Entropy loss function (ELF) and invariant of scale squared error (SE) loss function, assuming Gamma and Exponential priors for the shape and scale parameters respectively. Maximum likelihood estimator (MLE) and Lindley’s approximation are used to obtain the Bayes estimates of the shape and scale parameters of GD. According to the Monte Carlo simulation method, those estimators have been compared based on the mean SEs (MSE’s). The results show that the performance of the Estimator of Bayes s under invariant of scale SE loss function produces the best estimates for the two parameters in all cases.
Recommendation Systems For E-commerce Systems An Overview
Authors: Abdul Hussien Farah Tawfiq , Rahma Abdul Monem S. , Abdul Wahab Hala Bahjat
Published: May 2021

Due to the huge expand in global markets and financial transactions, the importance of E-commerce has grown significantly, so to achieve fully functioning, scalable, reliable, efficient, secure, and user-friendly E-commerce system, Adequate system analysis and design procedures are essential. On the other hand The internet vast growing has totally altered the way most companies work. The Internet has created a means for e-Commerce the internet has created a way to provide a unique avenue for companies and customers to sell and buy goods and services. When creating an e-commerce website, there are several goals that must be taken into account, one of them is how to Increase the site’s efficiency to ensure customer turnout and thus achieve the required material profits. There are several methods that are followed to increase the efficiency of the site. One of these methods is the recommender system. This paper produces a study overview of the value of recommended systems and thoroughly analyzed Collaborative Recommender System (CF) techniques with its techniques., which presents proposals to customers according to their interests, making it easier for the customer to search and thus choose the goods that suit him.
The kernel in fixed topological spaces
Authors: Hussain Al-Abdulla Raad Aziz
Published: May 2021

The goal of the article is to extend and study the proper fixed spaces. The sets called D-, and Kernel sets in this space have been studied and introduced. In this paper we include theorems and examples related to these concepts in fixed topological space. This research finds the characteristics and properties of such notions. Also the relation between them are studied and investigated in fixed topological spaces. Since the definition of the mathematics usual topology differs from the definition of fixed topology, we have noticed that some of the concepts that have been studied in both are different in terms of their verification in the proofs and examples and evidence for that the of definitions D-sets. α, R0, D0, D1 - spaces and the kernel set. Also we were obtained that the relationships between these concepts are different from those in previous studies.
The formula for the product of sines of multiple arcs
Authors: Radhi Ahmed Khalaf
Published: May 2021

By using the theory of residues of holomorphic functions, one formula is obtained for the product of a finite number of Sines of multiple arcs and one improper integral is computed.
Undirected Complete Graph to Design New Public Key Cryptosystem
Authors: Aljamaly Karrar Taher R. , Ajeena Ruma Kareem K.
Published: May 2021

In this work, the alternative version of the ElGamal public key cryptosystem (EPKC) first is proposed. The revised EPKC depended on an extended discrete logarithm problem over matrices. More secure communications with the revised EPKC in compare to the original one are obtained. Also, a new public key cryptosystem has been designed based on undirected complete graph (UCG). The plaintext data is selected as a subset from the finite fields which is corresponded to undirected complete graph G(V,E), where V and E are finite sets of the vertices and edges respectively. The plaintext is encrypted using the matrix power function (MPF) and the minimum spanning tree (MST) problem of undirected complete graph (UCG). The adjacent matrix representation of MST is used to speed up the calculations. More secure on the proposed cryptosystem has been determined in compare to other asymmetric public key cryptosystems. New computational results of the revised EPKC and the UCG-based public key cryptosystem are discussed.
On Oscillatory to Nonlinear Impulsive Differential Equation of Second-Order with Damping Term
Authors: Jaddoa Aqeel Falih
Published: May 2021

The paper focuses on the sufficient conditions for oscillatory property to the nonlinear impulsive differential equation(IDE) of the second order with damping term. We submitted a suitable impulsive conditions with the nonlinear equation. The obtained new results in this article generalize and extend some modification results to linear (IDEs) with damping term in the references. We have been given illustrative example to apply the conditions in the main results.
Efficiency Algorithm for Solving Some Models of Nonlinear Problems
Authors: Nemah Eman Mohmmed
Published: May 2021

In this paper, a numerical algorithm proposed by composing the Aboodh transform (AT) and Adomian decomposition method (ADM) and it has been named (ATADM). This algorithm is tested for solving some models of nonlinear problems. The modification gives robust tool for large size of enumerations. The obtained results of comparing approximate solution with exact solution for this scheme appeared high accuracy and efficiency for solving nonlinear problems.
Multiplier Approximation of Functions by q-Bernstein-Kantorovich Operator
Authors: Zaboon Ali Hussein , Al-Saidy Sahib K
Published: May 2021

The purpose of this paper is to find best multiplier approximation of unbounded functions in L

p,ϕm

–space by q-Bernstein-Kantorovich Aperator, in terms of the modulus of smoothness of one order using Korevkin Theorem.
On The Convergence Speediness of K * and D-Iterations
Authors: Thajil A Q , Maibed Z H
Published: May 2021

In this article, we introduced a new concept of mappings called δZA - Quasi contractive mapping and we study the K*- iteration process for approximation of fixed points, and we proved that this iteration process is faster than the existing leading iteration processes like Noor iteration process, CR -iteration process, SP and Karahan Two- step iteration process for 𝛿𝒵𝒜 − quasi contraction mappings. We supported our analytic proof by a numerical example.
Machine Elements and Design Fundamental
Authors: Hasan Hussein Mohammed , Razzaq Hussein Younus , Saleh Intisar Rasheed
Published: May 2021

The Mechanical Engineering essence is the understanding of all the available resources, their effective utilization, and making use of the law of nature to help, gain and benefit the entire humanity. Mechanical Engineering is the applied science using scientific knowledge and procedures as the means to accomplish a specific practical and useful results. It is related to the sense that involves a proper understanding of all the scientific principles and effectively applying them to attain the designated goal. The machine design in mechanical engineering is the most crucial section of engineering, and it deals with the design, conception, refinement, development of machines and component application together with the mechanical apparatus of every kind.

In the professional engineering, the main concern is to obtain the requisite solutions to all the practical problems in the machinery production. The solutions should reflect the knowledge, understanding and application of the underlying technology and science. However, normally the mere understanding is not sufficient. The related empirical knowledge together with engineering judgment become the most prerequisite. For instance, no scientist can entirely understand electricity. However, it does not prevent any electrical engineer from creating highly useful and functional electrical devices. Likewise, no scientist can fully understand metal fatigues and combustion procedures, yet, the mechanical engineers utilize the knowledge and insight available to generate highly useful and functional combustion engines. When more scientific solutions are accessible, engineers can devise better explanations and clarifications to practical problems. This study tries to analyze and evaluate the perception and usefulness of AM- additive manufacturing systems and technologies to understand machine elements, product design and its development.
Variational Approaches as Fractional Differential Equations Along Theoretical and Numerical Examples
Authors: Al-Obaidi Hussein , Al-Obaidi Riyadh
Published: May 2021

This paper deals along the solutions numerical and presentence estimates As fractional equation as differential class, while the problem nonlinear part admits some distinct hypotheses. In particular, As precise parameter localization, the non-0 solution presentence is recognized requiring the sub linearity nonlinear part at infinity and origin. Furthermore, theoretical and numerical examples of applications are provided.
Physical and chemical properties of oil palm land which overgrown with weeds at different plant age
Authors: Satriawan H , Fuady Z , Fitri R
Published: May 2021

Large plantations such as oil palm plantations are usually covered by several weed species which occasionally function as a land cover. Soil samples were obtained through Simple Random Sampling on various types of ground cover weeds, e.g Asystasia intrusa, Eleusine indica, Cyperus kyllingia Endl. and Cyrtococcum oxyphyllum Stapf., in 7-year old oil palm stands, and Asystasia intrusa, Cyperus kyllingia Endl., Cyrtococcum oxyphyllum Stapf. and Cyperus rotundus, in 6-year old stands. Each sample was randomly obtained from each replicate plot at a depth of 0-20 cm (layer 1) and 20-50 cm (layer 2) at 5 points. Variables of soil chemical properties observed were N-total, P-available, K-total, C-organic and soil pH, while the physical properties observed were water content (%) and volume weight, using the gravimetric method. The results showed that the presence of weeds beneath the oil palm stands in plantation areas did not continuously have a negative effect on the growing environment. In this study, the presence of 4 (four) weed species under 6 and 7 years old were found around old oil palm stands and classified as dominant existences actually have a positive tendency to influence the quality of physical and chemical properties of soil under oil palm stands.
Using surface free energy method to evaluate the isothermic adsorption of free fatty acid on low-grade coal
Authors: Rahmadian A , Nikmatin S , Hardhienata H , Darmawan S
Published: May 2021

Surface free energy analysis on low-grade coal has been conducted. This research shows the interaction between oil and coal which improve the quality of low-grade coal by coating process. Sample coal has a total surface free energy of 22.3 mJ/m2 with 17.51 % polar ratio. The interfacial energy between coal and free fatty acid (FFA) is 9.1 mJ/m2 with adhesive energy by 53.4 mJ/m2 which is able the oil to coated on the coal surface under Van der Waals force effect.
Green prosperity: a natural-based solution for rural electrification in Indonesia
Authors: Wahono J , Djamari D W , Nurhadiyanto M A , Azmi A L S
Published: May 2021

Primary energy demand in Indonesia is growing rapidly due to urbanization, economic growth and population increase. The contribution of New and Renewable Energy to the national energy mix is mandated to reach 23 % by 2025. Indonesia’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) stresses five sectors in which greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions are to be reduced with forestry and energy being the highest priority. While Indonesia is committed to address climate change through the forestry sector, there are clearly contextual challenges that need to be addressed to create the enabling conditions for REDD+. Biomass production for local energy supply in remote and rural areas could become the agent of change for this difficult problem. This paper proposes a methodology for rural electrification using a community and biomass-based power generation system exemplified by a real case in the Mentawai islands in Indonesia. By replicating this proven system that results in biomass production, land restoration, affordable electricity, and local economic growth, the contribution of renewable energy in the energy mix and the overall prosperity of Indonesians in rural and remote areas can be improved.
Remote monitoring and control system for the energy self-sufficient bioethanol distiller
Authors: Ibañez V , Manzanas W M , Villena R , Ubiña T , Agrupis S
Published: May 2021

Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) started the Bioethanol industry way back in 2008 and produced the first fuel-grade Hydrous Ethanol (95%) in the Philippines in 2012. Developments continued until the team developed Village-scale fuelwood fired 150 L and 850 L capacity Multi-Feedstock Bioethanol Distiller. Recently, the Village-Scale Bioethanol Industry established in Pamplona, Cagayan, produced more than 4000 L of 95% Ethanol from Nipa Sap last year. The output of the team was remarkable. Challenges encountered in monitoring operation protocols resulted in low efficiency, mainly because the distillers are situated about 4 hrs away from the University. With a low ethanol yield of 5-6 percent during the production last year, the team was challenged to develop a Remote Monitoring and Control System for the Distillers deployed in Cagayan. This study aims to automate the Bioethanol distiller to increase the yield of ethanol. Implementing IoT via web application for real-time monitoring and control, and integrating Photovoltaic cells for an energy self-sufficient Bioethanol Distiller. Results showed that it is functional and effective in controlling the kettle temperature, water pump, and the Bioethanol distiller’s energy usage wirelessly and remotely through the MMSU i4.0 platform. It was observed that the ethanol yield is up to 8.39%. Furthermore, a better quality of the front and tail ethanol yield was achieved by implementing PID control.
Value added products from urban organic wastes: a whole systems perspective
Authors: Urbaniak L , Sanchez G , Lee R , Satrio J , Taylor J , Spracklin D
Published: May 2021

Organic waste, specifically food waste and sewage sludge, is a challenge for sustainable waste management systems. The United States Environmental Protection Agency estimated that 38 million tons of food waste went to landfill in 2014. In the United States, public wastewater treatment plants process approximately 14 million dry tons of sewage sludge per year. Hydrothermal carbonization (HTC) is proposed as a solution to the large streams of food waste and sewage sludge. HTC is significantly more energy efficient than the industry standard processes used today. Compared to other biomass conversion processes, HTC has the highest carbon efficiency while having the lowest greenhouse gas emissions rate. HTC is a thermochemical process that converts wet biomass to a coal-like product that can be used as a solid fuel source, for soil amendment, or as a base for advanced applications such as activated carbon. Villanova University, with SoMax BioEnergy, is researching HTC and activation techniques for upgrading sewage sludge and food waste to activated carbon. The focus of the study is to evaluate these wastes as feedstocks for HTC and the subsequent activation to determine if an activated carbon adsorbent can be produced that is comparable to commercially available activated carbon using a whole systems perspective. This is a novel look as it involves determining the impacts of the process from social, technical, environmental, economic, and political (STEEP) perspectives.
Using two dosages of biochar from shorea to improve the growth of Paraserianthes falcataria seedlings
Authors: Riniarti Melya , Hidayat Wahyu , Prasetia Hendra , Niswati Ainin , Hasanudin Udin , Banuwa Irwan Sukri , Yoo Jiho , Kim Sangdo , Lee Sihyun
Published: May 2021

The objective of the study was to examine the effect of biochar addition on the growth of Paraserianthes falcataria seedlings. Biochar from shorea was produced using a traditional kiln at 400 °C and 600 °C. The scarification of P. falcataria seeds were conducted using hot water with temperature at 80 °C and then soaked for 24 h. The seeds were then spread on to the germination media and after germinated, the seedlings were moved to polybags contain soil and biochar. Two dosages of biochar such as 25 and 50% were applied and compared with control. The research was arranged in a completely randomized design with 15 replicates. The examination of seedlings growth was conducted one week after transplanting, then subsequently monitored every month. The results showed that the addition of biochar improved the survival rate of seedlings, height and diameter increments, root length and root volume. The results showed a potential of using biochar to improve the growth of P. falcataria seedlings in the nursery.
Investigation of rotary dryer performance fueled with wood pellets for biomass processing
Authors: Nursani Daragantina , Hafitara Harry , Bagawanta Bariq , Surjosatyo Adi
Published: May 2021

The drying process is necessary to reduce the biomass moisture content before it is processed into ready-to-burn fuel. Rotary dryer is one of the tools used for drying biomass, as it can produce a uniform moisture content, high power, and simple to use and maintain. This research aims to investigate the performance of a rotary dryer for drying biomass from tree felling waste. The dryer consists of a hopper, drum dryer chamber with flight, product discharge unit, heat exchanger, pellets burner, axial blower, and drum drive motor which is equipped with an electric variable speed. The variation of experimental is mass flow rate of material with drum rotating speed of 1, 1.25, 1.5 RPM, drying air flow rate of 0.6, 1 and 1.3 m3/s and fuel consumption rate of 48 and 123 g/min. The performance evaluation showed that this dryer is capable to drying chopped tree felling waste at the decreasing moisture content rate of 0.5-2.0 %/min. The system efficiency of the dryer was found to be 8.91-26.84% depending on the drum rotary speed, drying air flow rate, and drying temperature.
Biodegradable foams based on extracted fractions from sorghum by-products
Authors: Luna P , Darniadi S , Chatzifragkou A , Charalampopoulos D
Published: May 2021

Agricultural by-products comprise abundant, renewable sources of value-added compounds for the food and packaging industries. The production of biodegradable foams can be focused on replacement of polystyrene-foam with biodegradable materials, which are regarded as environmentally friendly. In this study, biodegradable food trays were developed via thermopressing, using modified and unmodified corn starches with additional extracted fractions (celluloses, hemicelluloses, and lignin) from sorghum stalk and bran. The effect of several formulations of extracted fractions from sorghum by-products on bio-foam properties was studied. All trays presented thicknesses between 3 and 4.17 mm, density between 0.16 and 0.64 g cm−3, and moisture content between 5 and 12% (dry basis). The foam trays made from chemically modified starch had lower densities, higher tensile strength and elongation at break than unmodified starch. The increment of cellulose fraction from 2% to 5% and hemicellulose fraction from 1% to 10% had significant effect on the trays’ physical and mechanical properties. All trays exhibited no color and structural changes during storage at 25 °C and 4 °C. The formulation presenting the best properties contained 2% of cellulose and 1% of hemicellulose, had a maximal resistance of 0.77 MPa and 9.46 mJ of total work, attributes which corresponded to a compact, homogenous, and dense microstructure.
The Characterization of hydrocarbon compounds in bio-oil produced by pyrolysis of biomass from the essential oil distilled residue using ZSM-5 and YSZ catalysts
Authors: Fauziah Firdania , Setiadi
Published: May 2021

The main hydrocarbon containing in petroleum and natural gas are important feedstocks for various kinds of fuel and petrochemical products, but these non-renewable resources will diminish their supply over time and that is why the development of environmentally friendly hydrocarbon resources whose more secure should be driven. One of the origins could become the residue of the distillation process of essential oils using catalytic pyrolysis that would produce the hydrocarbon distribution products. The use of acid catalysts such as ZSM-5 can improve the hydrocarbon in bio-oil. However, the use of zeolites can mainly accelerate the cracking of long molecules to make hydrocarbon molecules simpler by forming carbonium ions from the carbon-carbon chain. Thus, requiring a modification of the catalyst with adds YSZ catalyst, which can cut off oxygen from the hydrocarbon group is needed to improve the results of catalytic pyrolysis. The results of this study showed that the maximum temperature at 550 °C was able to increase the yield of steam products and the production of non-oxygenated hydrocarbon compounds. Similarly, the optimization condition of the argon gas flow rate is 100 mL/min. In that condition, the fluidization of biomass material occurs maximally, and the occurrence of the heat transfer process is very fast. While the optimum ratio of YSZ/ZSM-5 catalyst was achieved by a 3:2 ratio. YSZ is very effective at 550 °C in assisting ZSM-5 to form non-oxygenated hydrocarbon compounds. It can be proofed by GC-MS results that non-oxygenated compounds produced such a group of non-oxygenated hydrocarbon cyclic, paraffin, and aromatic compounds are dominant.
Application of MAG (monoacyl glycerol) as emulsifier with red palm oil in body cream product
Authors: Qatrinada  , Setyaningsih Dwi , Aminingsih Tri
Published: May 2021

Palm Fatty Acid Destilate (PFAD) is one of the wastes from the palm oil processing. PFAD can be reacted with glycerol to form MAG (monoacyl glycerol). MAG is an emulgator that can be applied in a cosmetic product in the form of a red palm oil cream. Red palm oil is one of the products processed from palm oil that still has a lot of natural antioxidant content such as carotenoids and vitamin E. formulation of red palm oil cream is carried out by treating variations of stearic acid substitution with red palm oil 50%, 75% and 100% as the source of active ingredients and variations in the combination of MAG and tween 80 as emulsifiers with each weight ratio of 1:3; 2:2 and 3:1. Each formula is then characterized based on its physical properties such as type of emulsion, pH, and stability of the emulsion. Some formulas that have the best physical properties will be selected and continued with sensory and total carotene tests. The synthesize MAG used has the characteristics of water content, free fatty acids and free glycerol, each at 1.27%; 0% and 0.37%. with a pure MAG yield of 18.85%. The best formula for red palm oil cream is formula with variation of stearic acid substitution with red palm oil by 50% and a variation of the MAG: tween 80 combination of 2:2. The formula has a HLB emulgator value of 9.4 and contains active carotenoid of 311.82 ppm.
Aquaculture Development Monitoring on Mangrove Forest in Mahakam Delta, East Kalimantan
Authors: Fawzi N I , Husna V N
Published: May 2021

Aquaculture development is thriving to provide fish product demand. One-fifth of mangrove forest destruction in the coastal region is from aquaculture, where ninety percent occurred in South East Asia. The mangrove forest conversion for aquaculture development is also mirroring in Mahakam Delta which started in the early 1980s. In this paper, we examined the impact of aquaculture development in Mahakam Delta on the mangrove forest ecosystems using remote sensing. Thirty years of monitoring data were used using six Landsat images series (Landsat 5 and 8). The result found a massive development of aquaculture in the Mahakam Delta occurred in the late 1990s, in which 41% of mangrove forests converted into ponds. The unstable political situation in Indonesia and the decrease of rupiah exchange rate against the US dollar are the leading factors. Since the mid-2010s, aquaculture productivity has been declining and that many farmers decided to abandon their ponds. The condition made mangrove cover increase up to 4,000 hectares due to natural regeneration. Nevertheless, aquaculture ponds cover 54.8% of Mahakam Delta in 2020. To minimize the impact on the ecosystem, it needs to manage aquaculture sustainably with mangrove conservation.
Spatial Distribution of Lift Net (bagan) and The Impact on Sardinella lemuru Catches in Senggrong Bay, Banyuwangi
Authors: Sukresno B , Kusuma D W , Jatisworo D
Published: May 2021

The spatial distribution of lift net (bagan) and the impact on the Sardinella lemuru (lemuru) catches in Senggrong bay - Banyuwangi has been analysed. The data used in this study consists of Pleiades satellite data, aerial photographs of unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) or drones and in situ measurements in the same period. Fishery data during 2013 to 2017 were analysed to determine the variability of Lemuru catches. The analysis of bagan spatial distribution was performed using visual interpretation technique. Spatial distribution of bagan was analyzed by overlaying data at different period. The results show that the number of bagan in Senggrong bay were 85 unit and spread evenly throughout the bay. In the northwest monsoon, the bagan were spreadedin the northern part of the bay, while in the southeast monsoon, the bagan were shifted to the south due to the high waves and wind speed. Lemuru spawning time was occured in May – July. During spawning time, the amount of Lemuru catches by bagan was relatively low. The peak of lemuru catch was occurred in the period of October to January. The impact of bagan on the decreasing of lemuru abundance is relatively low.
The Effect of Seaweed Extract on The Growth of Shoot of Shallot (Allium wakegi Araki) Lembah Palu Variety on in vitro
Authors: Yusuf R , Made U , Syakur A , aestary R N , Kalaba Y , Pasigai M A , Hawalina
Published: May 2021

Plant cultivation using sand media and conventional soil methods often have time and environmental constraint. One method that is expected to support the supply of quality shallots seeds is to propagate the seeds through tissue culture techniques. This study aims to know the effect of seaweed concentration on the growth of local palu shallot shoot in vitro. This research was carried out at the Biotechnology Laboratory, Faculty of Agriculture, Tadulako University, Palu. This study conducted using a completely randomized design (CRD) of one factor consisting of five levels, namely, without seaweed extract, seaweed extract the concentration of 5%, seaweed extract concentration of 10%, seaweed extract. The concentration of 15%, and seaweed extract concentration of 20%. Every treatment was quadruplicate; therefore, there were 20 experimental plots. Every unit of the experiment was planted with two explants; thus, the total sample amounted to 40. The results showed, adding 20% seaweed extract, in general, gave better growth in all parameters of the number of leaves and leaf length indicated by the number of leaves (7.50) and leaves size (10.80 cm).
Occurrence and Prediction of Coral Bleaching Based on Ocean Surface Temperature Anomalies and Global Warming in Indonesian Waters
Authors: Gusviga B H , Subiyanto  , Faizal I , Yusri S , Sari S K , Purba N P
Published: May 2021

This study investigates the locations of coral bleaching events in Indonesia based on the Sea Surface Temperature Anomaly (SSTA) from the 2015-2019 period. SST was downloaded from the satellite with a resolution of 4 km. The method used was the Hotspot Index and Degree Heating Week issued by the National Ocean Atmospheric Administrations (NOAA) through the Coral Reef Watch (CRW) program. Results obtained from the Hotspots index shows that almost all Indonesian waters have the potential to experience coral bleaching and the area that has a high potential is West Sumatra with the Death Index Degree Heating Week reaching 8-12 °C - weeks with Alert Level 2 status. an increase in temperature by 1.5°C as a result of global warming, then the area with the most massive death impact was West Sumatra with an increase of 3.82 - 6.32°C - weeks. The relationship between SST anomaly and coral reef mortality is 55 - 56%, so it is a strong relationship category.
Drying Kinetics and Study of Physical Characteristic Using Image Analysis of Dried Salted Striped Catfish (Pangasius hypophthalmus)
Authors: Wafa R H , Agustini T W , Fahmi A S
Published: May 2021

Dried salted striped catfish (Pangasius hypophthalmus) is one of dried fish produced by salt fermentation and drying process. Drying temperature, time, and methods cause specific characteristic of the product. Human visualization is limited and the conventional method to analyze the characteristic of the product is time consuming so that accurate method is needed with digital image analysis or image processing. The study aimed to determine mathematic model which show the characteristics of dried salted striped catfish cause by different drying process and to observe the visual transformations which is stated in image parameter of RGB, L*a*b, hue, saturation, intensity, area, and texture (entropy, energy, contrast, and homogeneity). This research did by using the temperature settings of 40, 50, and 60°C for 12 hours. Moisture content was carried out every two hours. The images were taken per hour for accurate results. The mathematical models used are Lewis, Henderson and Pabis, and Page. The mathematical models were obtained from the regression analysis. The research showed that the drying constant (k) was directly proportional to temperature increase. Model Page is more suitable than the other mathematical models because it has the highest R2value and the lowest value of SEE (Standard Error of Estimate). The result of diffusivity effective for each temperature with the value of 8.776 × 10−3; 31.922 × 10−3; 48.389 × 10−3, with the activation energy of 74.34 kJ/g mol. The digital image has a strong correlation with moisture content reduction with R2> 0.8. The results of entropy and energy on textures were continued withMultiple Linear Regression(MLR) analysis produce equation of Moisture Content (%) = 188.721 + (Energy x 40.249) + (Entropy × (-25.801)).
The Growth Analysis of Euchema cottonii using The Simple Longline Method and Basket Method on The Coast of Kemojan Island
Authors: Nugroho R A , Wijayanto D , Kurohman F , Maulina I D , Puspitasari R E
Published: May 2021

The development of seaweed cultivation method that support marine conservation needs to be done on Kemojan Island. The use of basket to cultivate seaweed can reduce the conflict between seaweed farmers and sea turtle protection compared to the longline method that used by local people on Kemojan Island at the present. The purpose of this study was to analyze the seaweed growth (E. cottonii) using the basket method compared to the simple longline method. Seaweed cultivavtion was conducted for 21 days. We measured the growth variables include biomass growth and daily growth rate. This study proved that the simple longline method produces higher seaweed growth than the basket method. However, the simple longline method is more prone to harvest failure than the basket method. In the absence of disease, the growth of seaweed on the simple longline method was 1.8% per day, while in the basket method was 1.2% per day.
International tourists’ attitudes towards street food in Malacca, Malaysia
Authors: Noradzhar B , Hamid Zuliah A , Azmi Ain Fatihin N , Redzuan Nursyafiqa M , Syazwana S
Published: May 2021

Street food is referred to as food that is prepared or cooked, which is then sold by vendors in streets or other public locations for immediate consumption. Many locals or international tourists prefer street food rather than food served at a restaurant. The reason simply because street food offers quality food at an affordable price. This study aims to identify and examine the factors that influence the international tourists’ attitudes towards street food in Malacca. Ajzen’s Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) is adapted as a conceptual framework which represent four variables which are affection, hygiene, food quality and service quality. The research instrument being used to collect the data is an online questionnaire from 386 respondents among whom are the international tourists in the city of Malacca. Descriptive analysis, a reliability test and a correlational coefficient test were used to analyse the findings. The result of this study proves that affection is the most important factor in influencing international tourists’ attitude towards street food in Malacca and their intentions to revisit the city.