bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Performance of Drying Machine with Air Dehumidifying Process for Sweet Corn Seed (Zea mays saccharata)
Authors: Susilo B , Hermanto M B , Mujahidin A , Djoyowasito G , Damayanti R
Published: June 2020

The number of corn production and consumption in Indonesia has increased every year. One of the activities in achieving the production target is by supplying high-quality corn seeds. The water content of harvested sweet corn was ranging from 60% to70%. In order to produce a high quality of seeds, drying should perform with a standard drying temperature for seeds which is between 38°C and 43°C. A performance test of a tray drying machine with an air dehumidifying process was conducted. The air dehumidifying process was conducted by an air conditioning system. Drying was carried out until the corn seeds reach 10-11% moisture content with observations every two hours. This drying machine provided lower relative humidity air drying than conventional sun-drying with a 75% relative humidity reduction from the environment. Therefore, drying with optimal temperature can be conducted faster and higher efficiency. The average dehumidified air temperature was 41.1±0.6°C and the average relative humidity was 15.9±0.7% was used for drying air. It took 44 hours 25 minutes to reach 11% of sweet corn’s moisture content while the sun drying process took 89 hours of drying. The seed germination could reach 85.7% by using this method which was a 1% difference from a sun-drying method which was 86.7%.
Data Acquisition of Multiple Sensors in Greenhouse Using Arduino Platform
Authors: Ichwana  , Nasution I S , Sundari S , Rifky N
Published: June 2020

Continuous monitoring of environmental parameters is necessary in order to achieve maximum plant growth in a greenhouse system. The aim of this study is to perform a real time data monitoring from multiple sensors in greenhouse using Arduino and Excel add-ins. DHT22 sensors, BH1750 sensor are the main sensors used in this study which give the exact value of temperature, humidity, and light intensity, respectively. Arduino Uno board provides multiple inputs analogs and I/O digitals were utilized to read the data sensor aforementioned that applied for the greenhouse. The level of accuracy of each sensor was compare to the standard device results. The results show that the accuracy of the sensors measurement is very good. This system design is real time, simple and low cost that given ability for user to monitor, collect, and to plot their greenhouse environments data in an Excel sheet.
Ergonomic Design of Durian Splitting Tool
Authors: Widanarti I , Mangera Y , Saputra I H A
Published: June 2020

The purpose of this research is to design a tool that can be used to facilitate the process of durian fruit splitting that is easy and comfortable to use with more efficient time. This research used an experimental method to determine the performance of durian splitting tool designed and to test the tool by comparing splitting using a durian splitter and using a knife. Test using durian splitter and knife were performed in two times with sample of a durian as many as 40 fruits tested by 10 people. The result of the design of the durian splitting tool is dimension of the stem length of 22 cm and size of the blade length of 7 cm with the width of 4 cm and the size of the pressing tool of 7 cm long with the height of 5 cm. Dimension of the stand has height of 9 cm with base width of 20x20 cm. In the first test the durian splitter produced the average splitting of 22 seconds / person and the second test was 17 seconds / person, while splitting the durian using the knife in the first test the average durian splitting was 123.1 seconds / person and the second test was 101.2 seconds / person. According to calculations and questionnaires distributed to 10 respondents who tested the durian splitting tool, it was obtained that the use of durian splitters is more efficient and comfortable when used than using a knife. From the results of this study can be concluded that the tool of durian splitting facilitates people in the process of splitting because it is more effective and efficient and more safety.
Hydrogen Cyanide (HCN) Detoxification of Crude Rubber Oil Seeds Using Ultrasonic Waves and Neutralization
Authors: Neswati  , Ismanto S D
Published: June 2020

Rubber seeds contain high levels of Hydrogen Cyanide (HCN) and oils. Rubber seed oil contains a large number of free fatty acids. The uses of rubber seeds and oils could be more extensive if the HCN and free fatty acid content could be reduced. The HCN content can be reduced with ultrasonic waves with certain process conditions. while the high fatty acid content can be reduced by conducting several neutralization processes. The purpose of this study was to determine the optimal temperature and duration of these detoxification processes based on HCN content in distilled water. as well as the number of neutralization processes that must be carried out. This study consisted of 2 stages; 1) reducing the HCN levels of rubber seeds with ultrasonication varying temperature (30 ° C. 40 ° C. 50 ° C) and duration (20 minutes. 40 minutes. 60 minute); 2) reducing the levels of seed oil free fatty acids by neutralization processes conducted 1 or 2 times. The results showed that the best process conditions for detoxifying HCN rubber seeds was ultrasonication at 50 ° C for 60 minutes followed by 2 neutralization cycles.
Nitrogen Fertilizer Prediction of Maize Plant with TCS3200 Sensor Based on Digital Image Processing
Authors: Sandra  , Damayanti R , Inayah Z
Published: June 2020

Fertilization for maize plants so far does not use the appropriate calculation of crop needs, thus it causes continuous soil damage. Another technique to predict nitrogen content in maize plants is using a leaf color chart. But it has some disadvantages, such as depending on sunlight for color plant reading, and inconsistent accuracy interpretation of leaf color by the eye. Based on problems, the research was aim to design a nitrogen content prediction system based on digital images with an RGB color index. RGB digital image and nitrogen content are used as a database system to predict nitrogen need for maize plants. Arduino UNO is used for data processor and the TCS3200 color sensor is used as a substitute for a camera on image processing. The performance test uses 40 leaves of maize plants with the age of 15, 30 and 40 days. The results show that the device can detect nitrogen content in maize plants based on the RGB database with a 90% success rate. For R value 447,4-601,6, G value 384,7-510, and B value 519,95-625,16, we obtain that nitrogen need for plant about 175 kg/ha. For R value 325,9-377,5, G value 285,6-311,5, and B value 426,4-456,1, we obtain that nitrogen need for plant about 150 kg/ha. And for R value 290,37, G value 239,12, and B value 385,62, the nitrogen need for plant about 125 kg/ha. The greener the color of maize leaf, the lower the nitrogen fertilizer need, conversely the lower the green color on the leaf, the higher the level of nitrogen fertilizer needs.
The Design and Construction of an Ecosystem Simulation Workbench
Authors: Molenaar R , Pangkerego F , Wullur H
Published: June 2020

Efforts to study ecosystems have been carried out by humans since ancient times in various ways or approaches. The approach of using a computer model and simulation nowadays is one of the increasingly possible alternatives, especially with the rapid advancement of information and communication technology. There are several ways to build computer models of an ecosystem to be used in simulations. Composite modeling is one method that can be used where several computer programs (main, sub-routines, functions, sub-programs) written using a procedural programming language, which as a whole are integrated into one final program that can be run on a computer. The approach in this research is different from what was explained earlier. Composite models are still used but each component of the model is kept separate which is not combined into one module when the simulation process of the ecosystem model is formed. Each module remains separate but will operate side by side and communicate with one another through an auxiliary module to allow conditions to work (Molenaar, 1998). This research was conducted to make a prototype of a composite computer simulation infrastructure model of an ecosystem. The outputs of this research proved that the approach seemed working well and able to be used as computer simulation infrastructure in studying various existing system start your abstract here.
Effect of Moisture Content on Some Physical and Mechanical Properties of ‘Genjah Arum’ Local Rice (Oryza sativa L) Variety in Banyuwangi
Authors: Sandra  , Putri R E , Djoyowasito G , Wijaya S N
Published: June 2020

Designing post-harvest rice equipment and machinery requires data on its physical and mechanical properties. Physical and mechanical properties were examined in the local variety rice 'Genjah Arum’ with a moisture content of 12.80%, 15.90% and 20.50% (wet basis). The physical properties measured are axial diameter and average diameter, where the higher the moisture contents the diameter increases. Sphericity, volume, and surface area, will increase if the moisture content is higher. If the moisture content rises, the average thousand grain weight will increase. There is an increase in true density and bulk density with increasing moisture content. Porosity decreases with the addition of paddy moisture content. Mechanical properties at moisture content of 12.80%, 15.90% and 20.50% are 9.12 kgf, 7.162 kgf and 6,196 kgf. The static angle of friction is measured on glass, plywood and stainless steel, the highest friction angle measurement results found on plywood.
Effectiveness of Citronella Oil Distiller Steam Method with One and Two Furnaces
Authors: Achmad E , Mursalin  , Novra A
Published: June 2020

The effectiveness of citronella oil distillers with one and two furnaces was studied. The parameters measured were the ability of the distiller to extract essential oils, distillation time, and the cost of the fuel used. The ability of the distiller to extract essential oils was measured based on the amount of essential oil produced. The distillation time was calculated from the time the distiller was operated until no oil was observed in the condensate. Fuel costs were calculated based on the amount of fuel used. The results showed that compared to single furnace distillers; two furnace distillers have faster and more effective extraction capabilities. The yield of citronella oil that could be extracted by distillers one and two furnaces was respectively 0.73 and 0.77%. Activation of the second furnace in the two-furnace distiller caused an increase in production costs of Rp.5416.67 for the distillation of 25 kg of raw material. The increase in production costs contributed to a decrease in processing time of 15.16% (from 296.33 to 257.33 minutes), an increase in the amount of oil that could be extracted by 5.44% (from 186.00 to 193.67 ml), an increase in effective capacity by 19.92% (from 37.66 to 45.16 ml / hour), and increased distillation effectiveness by 4.12% (from 85.52% to 89.04%).
Quality of Chili Powder Soaked with Lime (Citrus aurantiifolia) and Tamarind (Tamarindus indica) Solution after Water Blanching
Authors: Kusnadi J , Utami A K , Martati E , Arumingtyas E L
Published: June 2020

Drying process leads to the decrease of the quality and nutrition of hot chili powder. Soaked with chemical solution such as sodium metabisulphite and citric acid can maintain the quality of hot chili powder. These chemicals are relatively expensive and not readily found. Fruits that have organic acids, natural, easy to find, and relatively cheap are lime and tamarind. The research aimed to determine the effect of hot chili powder soaked with lime and tamarind solution and determine the fruit that can replace chemical solution. Randomized Block Design with 2 factors was used in this research. The first factor was type of soaking solution (lime solution and tamarind solution). The second factor was acid concentration (5%, 10%, 15%). The observed data were analyzed statistically using Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) with 5% confidence interval. Then tested using LSD (Least Significance Different) test or DMRT (Duncan Multiple Range Test) with 5% confidence interval. The best results was showed by 15% lime solution. The sample results had color a * 22.28, total color value 173.77 ASTA, capsaicin level 76427.54 ppm, total phenolic content 9.07 mg GAE/g, total flavonoid content 30.76 mg QE/g, ascorbic acid content 0.66 mg/g, and IC 50 is 213.11 ppm.
Typology of Agricultural Upstream Area of Watershed on Intensive Fertilizer Behaviour on Conservation of Natural Resources in Bedadung
Authors: Alfarisy F K , Petrina J M , Andriyani I , Adibowo C
Published: June 2020

Bedadung is one of the biggest river in Jember, East Java Indonesia. The typology of agricultural upstream of watershed is needed as conservation on the management of natural resources. The activity of intensive agricultural give the influence significant to decrease environmental quality. The behaviour of farmer use the fertilizer according to intensive make the problems on the soil and water. The aim is understanding the farmer behaviour on using fertilizer and to give recommend fertilizer application as to be truly on it. This method was conducted rapid rural appraisal (RRA) with the complete questionnaire for to understand about the behaviour of farmer. There are many steps was did (1) mapping location for taking the sample respondent based on water flow, (2) selected respondent did random sampling, (3) collecting data was cluster analyzed to appropriate the application fertilizer, (4) making a recommend to type conservation for the keep our environment dan conservation of natural resources. Based on the type spread the intensive fertilizer is used of farmer from Urea=60.62.42 kg/ha, Kaltim=54.03 kg/ha, Ponska=47.38 kg/ha, and KCl=27.33 kg/ha. The fertilizer is used the farmer was covered from the rule which is decided.
Calibration and Validation of the SWAT Hydrological Model for the Air Dingin Watershed
Authors: Arlius F , Berd I , Setyawan F
Published: June 2020

Computer technology has revolutionized the study of hydrological systems and management of water resources. Several computer-based hydrological models have been developed for applications in hydrological modeling and water resource studies. Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Interface models help create input data files, analyze and display results in a more efficient way. One interface GIS model available for water resources analysis is the Arc - Soil and Water Assessment Tool (ArcSWAT), a distributed parameter model developed by the United States Department of Agriculture. ArcSWAT has been applied, validated and calibrated for analyzing surface runoff in Air Dingin Watershed in Padang City - West Sumatra Indonesia. Validation was conducted to test the accuracy of the model in representing the real situation of the Air Dingin Watershed. Furthermore, calibration was performed to enhance the accuracy of the model. The results of ArcSWAT validation indicated that the Nash–Sutcliffe Efficiency (NSE) value was 0.12 and Coefficient of Determination (R2) was 0.4. After the calibration was carried out by changing the value of some parameters in the model, the NSE value becomes 0.68 and R2 becomes 0.66. This accepted model furthermore could be used to simulate water balance in the Air Dingin watershed.
The Impacts of Change Forests into Agricultural Land to Social Economic Conditions Society in the Upstream of Bedadung Watershed
Authors: Petrina J M , Alfarisy F K , Andriyani I , Suciati L P
Published: June 2020

The upstream areas of Bedadung watershed are generally hilly with steep slopes, so have highly landslides potential and erodibility. In the upstream areas occur illegal logging of protected forests and changes in forest plant around the Argopuro mountains into coffe plant, sengon, and horticultural crops. This condition having impact on increasing flooding during rainy season, and water shortage during dry season. This study aims to identified conservation measures in the upstream area, to describe social impact change, and to calculate economic impact community. The research method uses quantitative descriptive analysis. The data collected using questioners and interviews. Total respondents are 60 farmers who manage land in the upstream of Bedadung. The results explain that the conservation actions which have been carrid out in the upstream community are the terraces, agroforestry system, and reducing the amount of chemical fertilizer used. The impact of social changes on natural conservation are land use and natural resources management which increase environmental degradation. Enviromental degradation impacts on reducing agricultural revenue.
Antioxidant Activity and Lovastatin Content in Garaetteok (Korean Rice Cake) with Angkak Powder as Food Colouring
Authors: Asben A , Murtius W S , Rifka A
Published: June 2020

Angkak is known as fermented rice produced by Monascus purpureus, which has many health benefits. One of them is the antioxidant activity found in angkak. Antioxidants are compounds that can inhibit oxidation which are currently being developed and added to food products. In Angkak also found lovastatin compounds which can prevent the formation of cholesterol. The addition of angkak powder that contains antioxidants and lovastatin in foods has the potential to make these foods as functional foods. One food that has the same raw materials as angkak is garaetteok. Korean traditional food that is now starting to be popular in Indonesia. The objectives of this research is to determine the best concentration of angkak powder addition to produce garaetteok which has antioxidant activity and lovastatin content so that it can be used as functional food. In this experiment, the addition of Angkak powder was given at 5 concentrations (0, 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2%). Garaetteok which has the highest antioxidant activity is the addition of 2% Angkak powder which is 8.41% (at concentration of 100000ppm) and lovastatin content of 19.20 ppm.
Characterization of Edible Film Whey with Addition of Curcuma Extract (Curcuma domestica val.) on Moisture, Water Vapor Absorption, Solubility Time, and Antioxidant Activity
Authors: Juliyarsi I , Tanifal M , Melia S , Arief  , Djamaan A , Purwati E
Published: June 2020

Edible film is a thin layer made from edible material as a packaging material or coating for food products. The addition of curcuma extract (Curcuma domestica Val.) is a spice ingredient that is useful as an antioxidant in edible films. This study aims for determine the effect of adding curcuma extract (Curcuma domestica Val.) to moisture, water vapor absorption and solubility time edible film whey. This research is using 1300 ml of whey, 1000 g of curcuma 3% glycerol and 1% Carboxymethyl Cellulose (CMC). The method used is a Randomized Block Design (RBD) method consisting of 4 treatments and 5 replications. The treatment in this study was the addition of curcuma extracts namely A (0%), B (0.2%), C (0.4%) and D (0.6%). The result of the research showed that edible film whey with the addition of curcuma extract had no effect (P>0.05) on moisture, water vapor absorption and solubility time, but has a significant effect (P<0.05) in antioxidant activity.
Study of Tempe Production from Dried Peeled Soybeans
Authors: Hasbullah  , Silvy D
Published: June 2020

Soybean seeds that will be fermented into tempeh must be peeled by tearing the skin from soybeans that have been previously boiled and soaked in water (for 24-48 hours). Tearing apart causes the seed coat to separate and the seed cotyledon to separate into two. This method is called wet peel, which requires more water, time from energy to separate the skin from cotyledons. In this study, the processing of tempeh made from raw soy peel is dried. Soybeans to be peeled were treated with drying at 50, 60 and 70oC for 12 hours. Tempeh made from dry peeled soybeans compared to the quality of the sensor is tempeh made from raw wet peeled soybeans, and tempeh made from dried peeled soybeans whose soaking process is added with soybean skin. Dry stripping of soybeans that are dried at a temperature of 70°C will produce a better peel than soybeans that are not dried, or which are dried at 50 and 60oC. The yield is 82%, seeds are not peeled 1% and seeds are damaged 1%. However, dry stripping that is done twice on un-dried soybeans can produce peels that are almost as good as soybeans that are dried first at 70oC. This method is more efficient in terms of energy and time used to get dry peel seeds, the process of making tempeh from dried peeled soybeans will save water usage by 40% and time for washing soybeans after soaking as much as 50%. The sensory quality of tempeh made from dry peeled soybeans is the same as tempeh made from wet peeled soybeans as is commonly done by tempeh producers in Indonesia.
Thermal Stability Characterization of Anthocyanin from Ficus aurata as Natural Food Colorant
Authors: Syukri D , Ismed  , Derosya V
Published: June 2020

The fruit of Ficus aurata has been identified as a potential source of anthocyanin pigment based on its physical Properties. This study focused on a simple characterisation of contained anthocyanins in the fruits of Ficus aurata as a food colorant material. The fresh Ficus aurata were extracted with the acidified ethanol with citric acid at room temperature for 8 hours in the dark environment. The pigment stability under several heat treatments such as on (30,50,70,100 °C) and three different pH solution (pH1,3,9) were observed with UV-Vis Spectroscopy measurement. As results, it can be concluded that anthocyanin pigment from Ficus aurata has thermal resistant capability in all acidic, neutral and alkali conditions.
Physico-Chemical and Sensory Properties of Kelanting Made from High Quality Cassava Flour
Authors: Nurdjanah S , Susilawati  , Nawansih O , Nurbaiti
Published: June 2020

Kelanting, a traditional snack food, usually made from fresh cassava roots. In this study we tried to modified the kelanting processing by replacing fresh cassava roots with high-quality cassava flour in order to improve the processing method primarily in raw material stocking. Kelanting produced from high-quality cassava flour were subjected to sensory evaluation using attributes included color, aroma, crispiness, taste, and overall acceptance on a 10-point scoring scale. The best kelanting was found in a 210 and 240 min of drying, with the sensory mean scores of 8.15, 7.15, 6.75, 6.8, and 7.7 were obtained correspondingly for crispness, color, aroma, crispiness, taste, and overall acceptance. Scores for these attributes indicated that the kelanting were acceptable. The study showed the suitability of high quality cassava flour for replacing the cassava roots in kelanting processing.
Viability Test and Breeding Growth on Poly-embryos Seeds
Authors: Jasmi  , Ariska N
Published: June 2020

Seeds are mature ovules. One or more ovaries form in an ovary in a legume, but never more than one seed is formed in an ovary in a monocot. Each ripe seed always consists of at least two parts, namely: (1) Embryo, (2) Seed coat (Seed coat or testa). Embryo formed or derived from fertilized eggs (zygote) by undergoing cell division in the embryo. The seed coat is formed from the integument (one or more) of the ovules. In legumes generally, there are two layers of the seed coat. Every very young and growing seed always consists of three parts, namely: (1) Embryo, (2) seed coat, (3) Endosperm. Endosperm is a storage food storage network that is absorbed by the embryo before or during seed germination and is always present in very young seeds. Poly-embryos is the presence of more than one embryo in one seed, but these embryos do not always mature or mature, remain undeveloped or degenerate. The purpose of this research is to study the germination of one seed that has more than one embryo and to determine the growth of seedlings from poly-embryonic seeds. The results showed that the highest plant growth (plant height, number of leaves, fresh weight and dry weight of orange seeds) was found in orange seeds that had 1 embryo compared to orange seeds which had 2 and 3 embryos. Seed germination and growth are strongly influenced by the number of food reserves stored in seeds.
Modeling and Optimization of Tensile Strength of Arrowroot Bioplastic Using Response Surface Method
Authors: Hendrawan Y , Putranto A W , Fauziah T R , Argo B D
Published: June 2020

Biodegradable plastic or bioplastics made from starch or plants is one way to reduce plastic waste that is not environmentally friendly. Optimization of mechanical characteristics in bioplastics needs to be done, one of which are tensile strength and elongation. The purpose of this study is to find the best glycerol and chitosan compositions that produce the most optimal tensile strength and elongation of Arrowroot (Maranta arundinacea L) bioplastic. The modeling and optimization method uses response surface method (RSM) with a central composite design (CCD). In the CCD, the glycerol composition was 2.4%, 3.9%, and 5.3% (1.5 g, 2.5 g, and 3.5 g of a solution of 62.5 mL, 64.5 mL, and 66.5 mL, respectively), while the composition of chitosan was 1.6%, 3.1%, and 4.5% (1 g, 2 g, and 3 g of a total solution of 62.5 mL, 64.5 mL, and 66.5 mL, respectively) with a total of 13 experimental designs on the CCD. The model results suggested by RSM-CCD are quadratic models. In the optimization results, the optimal solution is the addition of 2.554 g of glycerol and the addition of 2.068 g of chitosan which produces tensile strength of 96.219 MPa and elongation of 11.78% with a desirability value of 0.902. Validation results using three repetitions produce an average tensile strength of 95.82±0.65 MPa and elongation of 11.46±0.52. Under these condition, the error rate value both of responses are still below 5%, so that the model optimization can be accepted. The duration of bioplastic degradation (more than 75%) produced from the optimum value is 12 days.
The Ability of Chunks of Building in the Recovery of Mercury (Hg) Pollution for Water Quality of Agriculture
Authors: Rusnam  , Efrizal  , Azkha N
Published: June 2020

Waste water is the most frequently found heavy which pose risks to human health and the environment. Various sources of heavy metals including soil erosion, natural weathering of the earth's crust, mining, industrial waste, waste disposal, insect or disease control agents applied to plants, and many others. Remediation on polluted water needs to be done as an effort to reduce the impact of heavy metals on the environment, plant and aquatic biota. This study aims to test the ability of chunks of building to reduce the pollution of mercury (Hg) until it reaches the limit of class-4 of water quality or water quality for agriculture. The treatment involved with three chunks of building as an agent of remediation such as former brick, former concrete and former ceramic. Each chunk of building was treated with three thicknesses of 5 cm, 7.5 cm and 10 cm. Levels of mercury (Hg) that will be tested to be lowered by remediation treatment with three chunks of building is 1 level of concentration and be repeated 3 times with depth of solution of 20 cm was 0.02 mg/L. The results showed that the three chunks of building that were used namely former brick, former concrete and former ceramic could reduce the concentration of mercury (Hg) in achieving the water quality standards for agriculture. Of the three treatments with all three thicknesses, it turns out that treatment with used former bricks with a thickness of 10 cm has the fastest ability to reduce the concentration of mercury (Hg). Based on the interpolation method, it turns out that treatment with used former brick only takes 6.25 weeks to reach below the water quality standard for agriculture. In terms of percentage reduction in mercury (Hg), former brick with a thickness of 10 cm is the best treatment, where in the eighth week reaching 85% or only 15% remaining in the solution. The treatment using used ceramics for all thickness treatments requires a longer time compared to the treatment of used former bricks and used former concrete to achieve the desired agricultural quality standards.
From Smoking-Permitted to Smokefree Prisons: A 3-Year Evaluation of the Changes in Occupational Exposure to Second-Hand Smoke Across a National Prison System
Authors: Demou Evangelia , Dobson Ruaraidh , Sweeting Helen , Brown Ashley , Sidwell Scott , O’Donnell Rachel , Hunt Kate , Semple Sean
Published: June 2020

Objectives

Prisons in Scotland were one of the few workplaces exempt from the 2006 comprehensive smoking ban in indoor public places, excluding the prison workforce from the health benefits of smokefree workplaces. The November 2018 introduction of comprehensive restrictions on smoking in Scottish prisons aimed to protect prison staff and people in custody from the harmful impacts of second-hand smoke (SHS) exposure. This study presents SHS exposure data gathered after smokefree policy implementation and compares these with data gathered during and before policy development.

Methods

Dylos DC1700 monitors were used to measure concentrations of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) derived from SHS across Scotland’s 15 prisons. Six days of fixed-site monitoring (09.00 22 May 2019 to 09.00 28 May 2019) were conducted in residential halls in each prison 6 months post-smokefree policy implementation. Prison staff task-based measurements were conducted to assess concentrations of SHS in various locations (e.g. gyms and workshops) and during specific activities (e.g. cell searches, maintenance, and meal service). Utilizing the fixed-site monitoring data, typical daily PM2.5 exposure profiles were constructed for the prison service and time-weighted average (TWA) exposure concentrations were estimated for the typical shift patterns of residential staff pre- and post-smokefree policy implementation. Staff perceptions of changes to SHS exposure were assessed using online surveys.

Results

Analysis of both fixed-site and mobile task-based PM2.5 measurements showed the smokefree policy implementation was successful in reducing SHS exposures across the Scottish prison estate. Measured PM2.5 in residential halls declined markedly; median fixed-site concentrations reduced by more than 91% compared with measures in 2016 before policy announcement. The changes in the TWA concentrations across shifts (over 90% decrease across all shifts) and task-based measurements (89% average decrease for high-exposure tasks) provide evidence that prison staff exposure to SHS has significantly reduced. Following smokefree policy implementation, the majority of staff reported no longer being exposed to SHS at work.

Conclusions

To our knowledge, this is the first comprehensive international study to objectively measure SHS levels before, during, and after implementation of a smokefree policy across a country’s prison system. The findings confirm that such a policy change can be successfully implemented to eliminate occupational exposures to SHS. The results are highly relevant for other jurisdictions considering changes to prison smoking legislation.
Do Depressive Symptoms Shape Blacks’ Perceptions of Stress Over Time?
Authors: Byrd DeAnnah R , Thorpe Roland J , Whitfield Keith E
Published: June 2020

Background and Objectives

Previous studies have linked stress to multiple negative mental health outcomes, including depression. This established stress–depression association is typically examined in one direction and cross-sectionally. This study examined the bidirectional relationships between depressive symptoms and changes in perceived stress over time in Blacks.

Research Design and Methods

The present study uses a community-dwelling sample of 450 Black adults, aged 51–96 years old, who participated in the Baltimore Study of Black Aging—Patterns of Cognitive Aging. Perceived stress—measured by the Perceived Stress Scale—and depressive symptoms—measured using the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression scale—were both assessed at baseline and follow-up 33 months later. Ordinary least squares regression was used to examine 2 bidirectional longitudinal relationships between (1) stress–depression and (2) depression–stress, and whether these associations are modified by age.

Results

Initial analyses testing the typical stress–depression relationship showed an effect in the expected direction, that is stress leading to more depressive symptoms over time, adjusting for model covariates, but the effect was not statistically significant (b = 0.014, p = .642). After accounting for baseline perceived stress level, age, sex, education, and chronic health conditions, depressive symptoms were positively associated with follow-up stress (b = 0.210, p < .000). The depression–stress association further varied by age group such that the impact of baseline depression on changes in perceived stress was greatest in Blacks in their 60s versus those in their 50s (b = 0.267, p = .001), controlling for model covariates.

Discussion and Implications

Contrary to previous work, the results suggest that an individual’s mental health shapes his/her perception of stressful events and this relationship varies by age group. While the typical finding (stress impacting depression) was not significant, the findings reported here highlight the importance of considering the possible bidirectional nature of the relationships between psychosocial measures of stress and mental health in later life among Blacks.
A statutory right to explanation for decisions generated using artificial intelligence
Authors: Gacutan Joshua , Selvadurai Niloufer
Published: June 2020

As artificial intelligence technologies are increasingly deployed by government and commercial entitles to generate automated and semi-automated decisions, the right to an explanation for such decisions has become a critical legal issue. As the internal logic of machine learning algorithms is typically opaque, the absence of a right to explanation can weaken an individual’s ability to challenge such decisions. This article considers the merits of enacting a statutory right to explanation for automated decisions. To this end, this article begins by considering a theoretical justification for a right to explanation, examines consequentialist and deontological approaches to protection and considers the appropriate ambit of such a right, comparing absolute transparency with partial transparency and counterfactual explanations. This article then analyses insights provided by the European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation before concluding by recommending an option for reform to protect the legitimate interests of individuals affected by automated decisions.
On the Maximal Rate of Convergence Under the Ricci Flow
Authors: Kotschwar Brett
Published: June 2020

We estimate from above the rate at which a solution to the normalized Ricci flow on a closed manifold may converge to a limit soliton. Our main result implies that any solution that converges modulo diffeomorphisms to a soliton faster than any fixed exponential rate must itself be self-similar.
Recommendations for improving national clinical datasets for health equity research
Authors: Block Rebecca G , Puro Jon , Cottrell Erika , Lunn Mitchell R , Dunne M J , Quiñones Ana R , Chung Bowen , Pinnock William , Reid Georgia M , Heintzman John
Published: June 2020

Health and healthcare disparities continue despite clinical, research, and policy efforts. Large clinical datasets may not contain data relevant to healthcare disparities and leveraging these for research may be crucial to improve health equity. The Health Disparities Collaborative Research Group was commissioned by the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute to examine the data science needs for quality and complete data and provide recommendations for improving data science around health disparities. The group convened content experts, researchers, clinicians, and patients to produce these recommendations and suggestions for implementation. Our desire was to produce recommendations to improve the usability of healthcare datasets for health equity research. The recommendations are summarized in 3 primary domains: patient voice, accurate variables, and data linkage. The implementation of these recommendations in national datasets has the potential to accelerate health disparities research and promote efforts to reduce health inequities.
Technical Limitations Associated With Molecular Barcoding of Arthropod Bloodmeals Taken From North American Deer Species
Authors: Borland Erin M , Hartman Daniel A , Hopken Matthew W , Piaggio Antoinette J , Kading Rebekah C
Published: June 2020

Accurate species-level identification of the source of arthropod bloodmeals is important for deciphering blood feeding patterns of field-collected specimens. Cytochrome c oxidase I (COI) mitochondrial gene sequencing has been used for this purpose; however, species resolution can be difficult to obtain from certain vertebrate genera, including Odocoileus. Sanger sequencing of mitochondrial genes was employed to identify the bloodmeal source of wild-caught mosquitoes trapped in Greeley, Colorado. Initial sequencing of the COI gene of mitochondrial DNA in bloodmeals was inadequate for species-level resolution of bloodmeals from deer in the genus Odocoileus, with current databases returning low fidelity matches to multiple genera. The use of the hypervariable D loop of the control region provided species-level identification of white-tailed deer (Order: Artiodactyla, Family: Cervidae, Odocoileus virginianus); however, taxonomic identification was successful only to genus for mule (O. hemionus hemionus) and black-tailed deer (O. hemionus columbianus). We advocate the use of multiple loci for bloodmeal analysis and the buildout of available databases to include multiple mitochondrial reference genes for reliable host species identification.
A global review of joint operating agreement disputes
Authors: Martin Tim , Gilbert John , Gusy Martin
Published: June 2020

The article identifies and analyses disputes that frequently arise from Joint Operating Agreements (JOAs) in the upstream oil and gas (O&G) business from around the globe. The topics discussed in this article are:    •  a brief introduction to JOAs, their use in the O&G industry, and their key principles and provisions   •  the development and use of model JOAs and Accounting Procedures;   •  customary industry practice regarding JOAs   •  O&G law regarding JOAs;   •  a review of reported court judgments and international arbitral awards that dealt with JOA disputes; and   •  an analysis of the trends in JOA disputes and lessons that can be drawn from those sources.
Coevolution in Hybrid Genomes: Nuclear-Encoded Rubisco Small Subunits and Their Plastid-Targeting Translocons Accompanying Sequential Allopolyploidy Events inTriticum
Authors: Li Changping , Wang Xiaofei , Xiao Yaxian , Sun Xuhan , Wang Jinbin , Yang Xuan , Sun Yuchen , Sha Yan , Lv Ruili , Yu Yanan , Ding Baoxu , Zhang Zhibin , Li Ning , Wang Tianya , Wendel Jonathan F , Liu Bao , Gong Lei
Published: June 2020

The Triticum/Aegilops complex includes hybrid species resulting from homoploid hybrid speciation and allopolyploid speciation. Sequential allotetra- and allohexaploidy events presumably result in two challenges for the hybrids, which involve 1) cytonuclear stoichiometric disruptions caused by combining two diverged nuclear genomes with the maternal inheritance of the cytoplasmic organellar donor; and 2) incompatibility of chimeric protein complexes with diverged subunits from nuclear and cytoplasmic genomes. Here, we describe coevolution of nuclear rbcS genes encoding the small subunits of Rubisco (ribulose 1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase) and nuclear genes encoding plastid translocons, which mediate recognition and translocation of nuclear-encoded proteins into plastids, in allopolyploid wheat species. We demonstrate that intergenomic paternal-to-maternal gene conversion specifically occurred in the genic region of the homoeologous rbcS3 gene from the D-genome progenitor of wheat (abbreviated as rbcS3D) such that it encodes a maternal-like or B-subgenome-like SSU3D transit peptide in allohexaploid wheat but not in allotetraploid wheat. Divergent and limited interaction between SSU3D and the D-subgenomic TOC90D translocon subunit is implicated to underpin SSU3D targeting into the chloroplast of hexaploid wheat. This implicates early selection favoring individuals harboring optimal maternal-like organellar SSU3D targeting in hexaploid wheat. These data represent a novel dimension of cytonuclear evolution mediated by organellar targeting and transportation of nuclear proteins.
Adaptation of the in vitro micronucleus assay for genotoxicity testing using 3D liver models supporting longer-term exposure durations
Authors: Conway Gillian E , Shah Ume-Kulsoom , Llewellyn Samantha , Cervena Tereza , Evans Stephen J , Al Ali Abdullah S , Jenkins Gareth J , Clift Martin J D , Doak Shareen H
Published: June 2020

Following advancements in the field of genotoxicology, it has become widely accepted that 3D models are not only more physiologically relevant but also have the capacity to elucidate more complex biological processes that standard 2D monocultures are unable to. Whilst 3D liver models have been developed to evaluate the short-term genotoxicity of chemicals, the aim of this study was to develop a 3D model that could be used with the regulatory accepted in vitro micronucleus (MN) following low-dose, longer-term (5 days) exposure to engineered nanomaterials (ENMs). A comparison study was carried out between advanced models generated from two commonly used liver cell lines, namely HepaRG and HepG2, in spheroid format. While both spheroid systems displayed good liver functionality and viability over 14 days, the HepaRG spheroids lacked the capacity to actively proliferate and, therefore, were considered unsuitable for use with the MN assay. This study further demonstrated the efficacy of the in vitro 3D HepG2 model to be used for short-term (24 h) exposures to genotoxic chemicals, aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) and methyl-methanesulfonate (MMS). The 3D HepG2 liver spheroids were shown to be more sensitive to DNA damage induced by AFB1 and MMS when compared to the HepG2 2D monoculture. This 3D model was further developed to allow for longer-term (5 day) ENM exposure. Four days after seeding, HepG2 spheroids were exposed to Zinc Oxide ENM (0–2 µg/ml) for 5 days and assessed using both the cytokinesis-block MN (CBMN) version of the MN assay and the mononuclear MN assay. Following a 5-day exposure, differences in MN frequency were observed between the CBMN and mononuclear MN assay, demonstrating that DNA damage induced within the first few cell cycles is distributed across the mononucleated cell population. Together, this study demonstrates the necessity to adapt the MN assay accordingly, to allow for the accurate assessment of genotoxicity following longer-term, low-dose ENM exposure.
A new phylogenetic protocol: dealing with model misspecification and confirmation bias in molecular phylogenetics
Authors: Jermiin Lars S , Catullo Renee A , Holland Barbara R
Published: June 2020

Molecular phylogenetics plays a key role in comparative genomics and has increasingly significant impacts on science, industry, government, public health and society. In this paper, we posit that the current phylogenetic protocol is missing two critical steps, and that their absence allows model misspecification and confirmation bias to unduly influence phylogenetic estimates. Based on the potential offered by well-established but under-used procedures, such as assessment of phylogenetic assumptions and tests of goodness of fit, we introduce a new phylogenetic protocol that will reduce confirmation bias and increase the accuracy of phylogenetic estimates.
Endovascular Thrombectomy for Pediatric Acute Ischemic Stroke: A Multi-Institutional Experience of Technical and Clinical Outcomes
Authors: Ravindra Vijay M , Alexander Matthew , Taussky Philipp , Bollo Robert J , Hassan Ameer E , Scoville Jonathan P , Griauzde Julius , Awad Al-Wala , Jumaa Mouhammad , Zaidi Syed , Lee Jonathan J , Hafeez Muhammad Ubaid , Nascimento Fábio A , LoPresti Melissa A , Couldwell William T , Hetts Steven W , Lam Sandi K , Kan Peter , Grandhi Ramesh
Published: June 2020

BACKGROUND

Endovascular thrombectomy is a promising treatment for acute ischemic stroke in children, but outcome and technical data in pediatric patients with large-vessel occlusions are lacking.

OBJECTIVE

To assess technical and clinical outcomes of thrombectomy in pediatric patients.

METHODS

We undertook a retrospective cohort study of pediatric patients who experienced acute ischemic stroke from April 2017 to April 2019 who had immediate, 30-, and 90-d follow-up. Patients were treated with endovascular thrombectomy at 5 US pediatric tertiary care facilities. We recorded initial and postprocedural modified Thrombolysis in Cerebral Infarction (mTICI) grade ≥ 2b, initial and postprocedural Pediatric National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (PedNIHSS) score, and pediatric modified Rankin scale (mRS) score 0 to 2 at 90 d.

RESULTS

There were 23 thrombectomies in 21 patients (mean age 11.6 ± 4.9 yr, median 11.5, range 2.1-19; 52% female). A total of 19 (83%) thrombectomies resulted in mTICI grade ≥ 2b recanalization. The median PedNIHSS score was 13 on presentation (range 4-33) and 2 (range 0-26) at discharge (mean reduction 11.3 ± 6.1). A total of 14 (66%) patients had a mRS score of 0 to 2 at 30-d follow-up; 18/21 (86%) achieved that by 90 d. The median mRS was 1 (range 0-4) at 30 d and 1 (range 0-5) at 90 d. One patient required a blood transfusion after thrombectomy.

CONCLUSION

In this large series of pediatric patients treated with endovascular thrombectomy, successful recanalization was accomplished via a variety of approaches with excellent clinical outcomes; further prospective longitudinal study is needed.
The educational attainment of the children of stay-at-home mothers: evidence from the Irish Marriage Bar
Authors: Mosca Irene , O’Sullivan Vincent , Wright Robert E
Published: June 2020

The relationship between maternal employment and the educational attainment of children is examined using data from the third wave of The Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing. Because maternal employment is potentially endogenous with respect to child educational attainment, instrumental variable estimation is used. In this analysis, two sets of instruments are used based on whether the mother’s employment was affected by the Marriage Bar that was in place at that time in Ireland. A Marriage Bar is the requirement that women in certain jobs must leave that job when they marry. It is found that the probability that a child completes university is 1–3 percentage points lower for each additional year of maternal employment during the first 18 years of the child’s life.
God Insures those Who Pay? Formal Insurance and Religious Offerings in Ghana*
Authors: Auriol Emmanuelle , Lassébie Julie , Panin Amma , Raiber Eva , Seabright Paul
Published: June 2020

This article provides experimental support for the hypothesis that insurance can be a motive for religious donations. We randomize enrollment of members of a Pentecostal church in Ghana into a commercial funeral insurance policy. Then church members allocate money between themselves and a set of religious goods in a series of dictator games with significant stakes. Members enrolled in insurance give significantly less money to their own church compared with members who only receive information about the insurance. Enrollment also reduces giving toward other spiritual goods. We set up a model exploring different channels of religiously based insurance. The implications of the model and the results from the dictator games suggest that adherents perceive the church as a source of insurance and that this insurance is derived from beliefs in an interventionist God. Survey results suggest that material insurance from the church community is also important and we hypothesize that these two insurance channels exist in parallel.