bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Physicochemical characterization of Cocoyam (Xanthosoma sagittifolium) starch from Banjarnegara highland as a local source of carbohydrate
Authors: Hakim L , Triwitono P , Supriyanto  , Marseno D W
Published: February 2021

Cocoyam (Xanthosoma sagittifolium) from Banjarnegara highland (and then called busil), is less utilized as a starch source even though it is easily found and locally used as a snack. The objective of this study was to determine the physicochemical properties and recommends suitable utilization of busil starch. This research was conducted in two steps, the first step was busil starch extraction, and the second was the physicochemical characterization and utilization recommendations. Busil had 14% yield of starch, contained 15.4% amylose, and 81.5% amylopectin with 88.1% of whiteness index. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) showed that they are mostly round, and the granule size was about 11.8 μm. Rapid Visco Analyzer (RVA) analysis showed that busil starch had 74.3°C on pasting temperature. X-ray diffraction (XRD) studies showed that busil starch exhibited an A-type diffraction pattern. Native busil starch was suitable to make amorphous and crispy food texture. It was also ideal for thickener or filler agents. Apart from being used as native starch, busil starch also potential to be modified and can be used more widely.
Effect of indigenous organic fertilizer on the growth and yield of paddy
Authors: Soebandiono S , Muhibuddin A , Purwanto E , Purnomo D
Published: February 2021

The utilization of organic fertilizer (OF) is one of the solutions to reduce the negative impact of inorganic fertilizer (IF). OF can maintain soil fertility and quality that also increases farm yield. This research aimed to analyze the effects of various fertilizer, including IF and OF from indigenous source, on the growth and yield of paddy. The experimental method used Randomized Block Design Pattern with five treatments, consisted of: 1) no fertilizer (control); 2) IF; 3) cow manure compost (CMC), 4) indigenous organic fertilizer (IOF); and 5) commercial fertilizer (CoF). All treatments were replicated four times. The daya were analyzed statistically by the F test, followed by the Duncan Multiple Range Test at the level of 95%. The results showed that various fertilizer treatments did not resulting significant difference on plant height, 1000 seed weight, and grain yield but resulting significant difference for tillers number at day 14, 21, 28, 35, 44, 50, 57, 64, 70, and 80 and panicles number at day 86, 93, and 99. The grain yield with IOF is 1.8% higher than control and 4.9% higher than IF. Our results highlight the benefit of OF utilization from indigenous sources that available around us.
The potential of seaweed used as hydroponic solution on the growth and yields of lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.)
Authors: Yusuf R , Laude S , Alfiana  , Syakur A , Ramli
Published: February 2021

Lettuce (Lactuca Sativa L.) is one the most popular leaf vegetable in Indonesia. Hydroponic systems do not require extensive land cultivation. The advantages of using hydroponic systems is that it has higher production with more efficient land use. Seaweeds have been reported to be used as a fertilizer. This study aims to determine the effect of various nutrient solutions on the growth and yield of lettuce plants with hydroponic system. This study used a randomized block design (RBD), with five treatments: N1=OLF (organic liquid fertilizer) solution, N2=OLF solution + spray, N3=Seaweeds extract solution, N4=Seaweeds extract solution + OLF solution, N5=AB mix (Nutriponik). Each treatment was repeated 4 times, so that there were 20 units of experiment. Each unit of experiment consist of 5 plants so that the total population was 100 plants. The results showed that the AB mix nutrient solution gave the best growth responses. It produced an average plant height, number of leaves, total fresh weight of plant, and total dry weight of plants better than other solutions.
The application of the ‘Jarwo Super’ component to increase the cropping index of rice fields in the special capital region of Jakarta-Indonesia
Authors: Irawati A F C , Nurmalinda  , Amatilah C S , Zulkarnaen I
Published: February 2021

Jakarta, the nation’s capital of Indonesia, has 414 hectares of rice fields. The fields generally owned by developers that are not been used/idle land. In general, the existing cropping index of the land is only 1-2 which has potential to be improved. The main of this research was to obtain a model of agricultural technology innovation package to increase rice productivity and field cropping index in Jakarta throught the application component of’ Jajar Legowo (Jarwo) Super’ technology. The observation data consisted of primary and secondary data on the characteristics of cropping patterns for a year. The data were processed using descriptive and economic analysis was tested based on the Revenue Cost Ratio (R/C). The results of research showed that the application package or component of Jarwo Super technology showed an increase in the planting index by 0.3-0.8 and also an increase in productivity ranging from 5 t/ha to more than 7 t/ha. Based on the R/C analysis, the application of component of Jarwo Super’s technology package increases the cropping index from 1.83 to 2.32. It means that the introduced cultivation technology can improve farm efficiency every planting season and increase farmer income every year.
Effectiveness of botanical pesticides against the rhizome flies Mimegralla coeruleifrons Macquart (Diptera: Micropezidae) in red ginger
Authors: Rismayani  , Mardiningsih T L , Maris P , Rizal M
Published: February 2021

Mimegralla coeruleifronsMacquart is a major pest of red ginger. The use of chemical pesticides for controllingM. coeruleifronsis not a proper solution due to the fact that the chemical pesticides are not environmentally friendly, kill natural enemies, and have negative impacts on human health. The aim of this study was to determine the effectiveness of the botanical pesticides consisting of citronella and eugenol which have been formulated and packaged into a product to controlM. coeruleifrons, namely Citronella (Nano Biopestisida), eugenol + citronella + geraniol (Bio Protektor), citronella + salicylic acid (Asimbo), and Imidacloprid (chemical pesticide) that commonly used by the farmer as a comparison. Approximately 10 ml of each botanical pesticides and 2 ml of chemical pesticide were dissolved in 1 litre of water. The treatment was conducted using direct spray. The adults were sprayed and then infested onto ginger plants. Insect mortality was observed at 1; 2; 3; 4; 5; 6 and 7 days after applications. The results show that the botanical pesticide which contains eugenol + citronella + geraniol (Bio protektor) was able to effectively control ofM. coeruleifronspest in red ginger plantation.
The increase of rice cropping index supported by river dam irrigation in dry land
Authors: Anshori A , Riyanto D , Sukristiyonubowo  , Widodo S , Suradal
Published: February 2021

This study aimed to determine the increase of rice cropping index from 1 to 2 in several rice varieties supported by river dam irrigation on dry land during the second growing season. The research was conducted in dry land in Pacarejo, Semanu, Gunungkidul, Yogyakarta, Indonesia, in March-Juli 2019 during second growing season. The increasing of rice cropping index utilized supplementary irrigation from river dam to maintain soil moisture. Rice varieties used were Inpari 24, Inpari 30, Inpari 32, and Inpari 33, complete with a package of technological components. The result showed 139 mm of rainfall with 11 rainy days, so that the most of crop water requirements came from river dam irrigation. Inpari 24 gave the highest grain yield (442.8 kg/1,000 m2) which was not different from Inpari 30 but different from Inpari 32 and Inpari 33. Inpari 24 carbon absorption was 503.8 kg/1,000 m2, consisting of 207.4 kg/1,000m2 in grain, 218.6 kg/1,000 m2 in straw, and 77.9 kg/1,000 m2 in root which was different from Inpari 32 (p<0.05; n=3). B/C Inpari 24 was 1.18 and farmers profit was Rp. 1,006,600/1,000 m2. The profit of rice cultivation in all rice varieties were higher than groundnut with higher irrigation costs.
Evaluation of chili accessions for resistance against Thrips sp. (Thysanoptera: Thripidae)
Authors: Murtiningsih R , Kirana R , Hermanto C
Published: February 2021

Thrips sp. (Thysanoptera: Thripidae) is one of chili pests that can cause significant crop losses by 23% and be even more harmful due to its ability to transmit virus. The use of resistant variety is one sensible strategy to control this pest attack. Thirty chili accessions were evaluated for resistance by counting of the number of pest, recording leaf damage and observing accessions morphological characters. The evaluation was conducted in the Research Field Station of Indonesian Vegetable Research Institute, Lembang, West Java from March to July 2020. Ten of the 30 accessions had low leaf damage and were considered to be used as female parents in breeding program of resistant chili against Thrips sp.
Growth and yields of shallot (allium cepa l.) as responses to the combination of inorganic and organic fertilizers enriched with functional microbes
Authors: Sugiono  , Aisyawati L , Purwanti E W
Published: February 2021

The use of inorganic fertilizers combined organic fertilizer is commonly applied by farmers to increase shallot production. Research was conducted to determine the proper dosage of organic fertilizer which can reduce the use of inorganic fertilizer. The research was conducted at Tawangargo Village, Karangploso district, Malang. The fertilizers were organic fertilizers, enriched with N-fixing bacteria and P solvent bacteria. The research used RCBD where the treatments were combinations of organic and inorganic fertilizers. The dose of organic fertilizer enriched functional microbes was set at 2 t/ha, while the dose for inorganic fertilizer is a combination of 600 kg/ha NPK+200 kg/ha SP36+400 ZA+100 kg/ha ZK. As comparison, farmers applied organic fertilizer from cow manure and without fertilization as control. The results showed that standard dose 100% inorganic fertilizer (1,300 kg/ha) + 100% standard dose (2,000 kg/ha) microbial-enriched organic fertilizer increased RAE 2% that produced 12.50 t/ha dry shallots in comparison with the farmer control. By dose of 2 t/ha of organic fertilizer enriched with functional microbes, the results will be equivalent to local organic fertilizer of 10,000 kg/ha and it is more effective than local organic fertilizers from cow manure.
Composition of pests and predators in the early generative phase of rice cultivation in two different conditions
Authors: Suroto A , Istiqomah D , Syarifah R N K
Published: February 2021

The early phase of growth is the most vulnerable for the survival of rice plants. However, this is influenced by many factors, such as the presence of pests and predators as natural enemies. This study aimed to determine the composition of pests and predators in the vegetative phase of rice plants in rice fields close to forests, and rice fields close to urban areas. The research location was determined by purposive random sampling method. Arthropod species and populations were observed directly from 8 am to 11 am. Data on safety results were processed and calculated. Based on the results of the observations in initial generative phase, there were 687 Arthropods. At the species level, the most abundant main pest was Nilaparvata lugens (11.76%) and Gesonula mundata (10.07%). The most abundant predator was Lycosa pseudoannulata (25.89%). Based on the overall calculation, predatory Arthropods have largest composition (72.36%), while pests were 27.04%. Based on the type of rice field conditions, Arthropods in the rice fields bordering the mountains have higher composition in both pests (15.99%) and predators (41.18%) compared to rice fields that are near settlement/urban areas, namely 11.25% pests and predators 31.18%.
Determinants of livelihood vulnerability of smallholder tea farmers in Lam Dong province, Vietnam
Authors: Thuy N N , Anh H H
Published: February 2021

This study constructed and evaluated the livelihood vulnerability index of small scale tea farming households in Lam Dong Province. It then determined the factors that can increase or reduce their vulnerability. The vulnerability to stresses of weather, climate, production linkages, and product consumption was viewed as a function of exposure, sensitivity, and adaptive capacity. The results showed that most of the households had very high exposure indices to changes in weather, climate, and natural conditions, showing that tea farming activities depended immensely on nature. The sensitivity to pressures of livelihoods, product consumption, or damages from climate variability was moderate. Tea farming households in Lam Dong province had relatively low adaptive capacity indices. The composite vulnerability index was calculated and provided an average of 0.56. The moderately vulnerable group comprised of 71 households (equal to 26.3% of the sample), the highly vulnerable group had 198 households (73.3%), and the extremely vulnerable group had one household (0.4%). The regression model revealed that risk-dependent livelihood, poverty, receiving support from acquaintances or the local government could worsen the vulnerability, while training and production experience can help lessen it.
Effect of stabilizer type and concentration on the characteristics of black pepper sauce
Authors: Kamsiati E , Herawati H
Published: February 2021

Black pepper sauce is one type of sauce that widely used in a variety of modern dishes. The stabilizer is used to increase viscosity, forming the body and texture of sauce product. This study aimed to determine the effect of various types of stabilizers on the characteristics of black pepper sauce. There are four types of stabilizers used, namely Carboxy Methyl Cellulose (CMC), xanthan gum, alginate and maltose with concentrations of 0.5 and 1,0%. The variance analysis showed that the type and concentration of the stabilizer had significant effect on the viscosity, pH, and color of the black pepper sauce. The use of 1% CMC produces highest viscosity, 21,414 cP, while 0.5% maltose produces lowest viscosity, 371.05 cP. The use of stabilizer increases the pH value of black pepper sauce from 4.53 to around 4.61–4.75. Furthermore, the use of stabilizers also reduces the lightness and redness of black pepper sauce. The use of stabilizers affects the characteristics of black pepper sauce produced, especially value of viscosity and color of the product.
Characteristic of banana flour produced from the variety of “Raja Lawe” and “Raja Labu”
Authors: Wibowo C , Naufalin R , Nafisah M
Published: February 2021

Banana variety of “Raja Lawe” and “Raja Labu” are found mostly in Banjarnegara, Central Java. To extend the shelf-life of these bananas, it is necessary to apply an appropriate technology. One of the alternatives is processing of bananas into flour. This study aims to determine the effect of blanching and immersion in several types of solutions on the sensory and physicochemical characteristics of “Raja Lawe” and “Raja Labu” banana flour. This study used an experimental method with a randomized block design. The factors consisted of banana variety (“Raja Lawe” (A1) and Banana variety “Raja Labu” (A2)), blanching effect (non-blanching (B0) and blanching (B1)), and the soaking solutions (sodium chloride (C1), sodium meta-bisulfite (C2), citric acid (C3), and water (C4)). The result of this research shows that in addition to the fresh consumption of the banana fruit “Raja Lawe” and “Raja Labu”, both bananas could be utilized as an intermediate product such as flour. Treatments of blanching and soaking in the solution could improve the quality of the banana flour made from the “Raja Lawe” and “Raja Labu”. The banana flour last longer and may reach broader market that increase the economic value of the fruits.
Effect of pruning intensity and doses of fertilization on content of macronutrients and hormones in leaves of rewatered citrus trees
Authors: Sakhidin  , Purwantono A S D , Suparto S R
Published: February 2021

There are some changes in the rewatered citrus trees, among others are the content of nutrients and hormones. An experiment was conducted to study the effects of pruning and fertilization on the macronutrients and hormones contents in leaves of rewatered citrus trees. The research was conducted in a citrus orchard in Purbalingga, Central Java, Indonesia from June until October 2018. There were two observed factors, namely pruning intensity (0, 5, 10, and 15% of total number of branches each tree) and doses of fertilization (0, 2, and 4 % of weight of harvested fruits at previous season). The research used Randomized Completely Block Design and three replications. Observed variables were content of N, P, K, IAA, GA3, and C/N ratio. The result of research showed that pruning intensity of 5% gave the highest content of K and IAA, and highest C/N ratio but the lowest content of GA3. Doses of 2 % fertilization gave the highest content of IAA and the highest C/N ratio but the lowest content of GA3. High content of K and IAA, and high C/N ratio but lower content of GA3 were required to induce the flowering of citrus trees.
Agroindustrial development strategy for herbal-cardamom coffee in Sumberjambe subdistrict, Jember district, East Java, Indonesia
Authors: Kuswardhani N , Rizky E P V S M , Alifah D E
Published: February 2021

Santuso II Forest Farmers Group has developed cardamom coffee as a herbal coffee drink to increase the value of coffee. It opens the opportunity to realizing coffee agro-industry startups and increasing farmers’ income in Sumberpakem Village, Sumberjambe District, Jember Regency. This study aimed to analyze internal and external conditions and to formulate and recommend business development strategy for the Santuso II Forest Farmers Group. The method was interview using a questionnaire. The data were then analyzed to obtain a strategy formulation using the analysis of Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats (SWOT). A business model was designed using the Business Model Canvas (BMC) and continued using the Quantitative Strategy Planning Method (QSPM). The results showed that there were 8 strengths, 12 weaknesses, 6 opportunities, and 3 threats. Based on weighting and rating, the weight value for the Internal Factor Evaluation (IFE) matrix is 2.89 and the External Factor Evaluation (EFE) matrix is 3.45. This value indicates a strong position in the Internal-External (IE) matrix with an intensive strategy or an integrative strategy. Based on the QSPM matrix analysis, the alternative priority strategy is promoting effectively and intensively through the marketing channels for herbal coffee which are very rare in the market.
Description of automated functions of high-tech production of nanostructures based on silicon dioxide to improve the properties of building and structural materials
Authors: Zott R S , Gladkih A M , Konyuhov V Yu
Published: February 2021

Within the framework of the project “Development of an integrated resource-saving technology and organization of high-tech production of nanostructures based on carbon and silicon dioxide to improve the properties of building and structural materials”, an automated control system for technological thermal vortex enrichment has been created, designed to obtain a modifying additive based on dioxide silicon. The main parameters of the operation of technological lines for thermal vortex enrichment of raw materials, automatic control when threshold values are reached, as well as signaling for the use of control action from automated technological lines are presented. The functions of collecting and primary processing of data, creating control actions, creating and maintaining requests and reporting, providing reporting and data analysis tools are subject to automation. Automation of these functions in the form of a graphical human-machine interface allows for continuous technological control of equipment operation and technological process parameters; ensuring the safety of the technological process in the production of a modifying additive based on silicon dioxide. The collection of data on technological processes and equipment operation, their processing, display and documentation will ensure the optimization of the technological process using advanced visualization tools, modern control algorithms and analysis of the accumulated technological information. Automation of control of the technological process of thermal vortex enrichment will ensure the minimization of the influence of the human factor on the processes of collecting and processing information about the technological process; automatic prevention of the development of emergency situations.
Machine-building enterprise performance and quality improvement tools
Authors: Konyuhov V Yu , Gladkih A M , Zott R S
Published: February 2021

Mechanical engineering is the leading sphere in the industrial countries. The engineering enterprises products take the top place in a realization of the scientific and technological progress achievements in the all economy areas. The development of mechanical engineering is impossible without quality management system introduction at enterprises (hereinafter QMS), which aim is to improve technological processes, develop human resources, reduce production costs and improve competitiveness. This paper reviews the influence of quality management system on the technological efficiency of a machine-building enterprise. To effectively use the concept of total quality management (TQM), a model of a quality management system at a machine-building enterprise is proposed in four areas: quality, process, personnel and resource management. Defining the quality management concept of engineering products, current trends in the sphere of engineering enterprise development were classified according to the products life cycle stages. Developing the total quality management concept, machine-building enterprises should form their own quality concept and its continuous improvement, as well as product competitiveness. The product quality improvement concept should include an adaptation of the enterprise system model leading to the concept of total quality management.
Formation of new principles and models of operation of structural units of the industry under the conditions of implementation of digital technologies
Authors: Lysenko D A , Olentsevich V A , Vlasova N V , Konyukhov V Yu
Published: February 2021

The construction of a high-tech modern model “Digital Railroad” is currently a key element, the implementation of which is planned for the near future. The project will create new principles and models for the work of all structural divisions of the industry in the context of the widespread penetration of digital technologies. The emergence of digital technologies will make it possible to transfer the organization and technology of functioning of transport and other systems to a qualitatively new level, new information technologies will make it possible to optimize the operation of rolling stock. According to the results of the analysis of the performance indicators of the service locomotive depot Irkutskoye, according to the model of “full service” of the locomotive fleet, it was revealed that the indicators negatively affects the financial results of the depot and negatively affects the quality of the repair performed in general. To solve this problem, it is proposed to use an automated locomotive fleet reliability management system in the Irkutsk service locomotive depot, the implementation of which will increase the availability factor, reduce downtime in repair depots, and minimize resource consumption for all types of repair and maintenance. The main consumer of the services of the locomotive fleet reliability management system is, first of all, the Russian Railways holding company and the traction directorate. They are interested in the reliable operation of the rolling stock, since during the operation of locomotives there are risks: comments on the operation of the locomotive fleet, failures and malfunctions of various degrees of complexity, cases violations of train traffic safety.
Pressure calculation for preliminary formation of undercuts prone to defect of fold type
Authors: Lavrentyeva M V , Mironenko V V
Published: February 2021

The paper presents the calculation of the pressure at the first transition during the formation of the “undercuts” on which corrugation takes place. The formulas in general form for the stresses at the first transition and the required pressure depending on the length of the sweep are derived. The results with the finite element analysis of formation and field experiments are compared. The conclusions about the verification of the results are drawn.
Half-metallic ferromagnetism in layered CdOHCl induced by hole doping
Authors: Banerjee H , Barone P , Picozzi S
Published: February 2021

Next-generation spintronic devices will benefit from low-dimensionality, ferromagnetism, and half–metallicity, possibly controlled by electric fields. We find these technologically–appealing features to be combined with an exotic microscopic origin of magnetism in doped CdOHCl, a van der Waals material from which 2D layers may be exfoliated. By means of first principles simulations, we predict homogeneous hole–doping to give rise to p-band magnetism in both the bulk and monolayer phases and interpret our findings in terms of Stoner instability: as the Fermi level is tuned via hole–doping through singularities in the 2D-like density of states, ferromagnetism develops with large saturation magnetization of 1 µ

B
per hole, leading to a half-metallic behaviour for layer carrier densities of the order of 1014 cm−2. Furthermore, we put forward electrostatic doping as an additional handle to induce magnetism in monolayers and bilayers of CdOHCl. Upon application of critical electric fields perpendicular to atomically–thin-films (as low as 0.2 and 0.5 V Å−1 in the bilayer and monolayer case, respectively), we envisage the emergence of a magnetic half-metallic state. The different behaviour of monolayer vs bilayer systems, as well as an observed asymmetric response to positive and negative electric fields in bilayers, are interpreted in terms of intrinsic polarity of CdOHCl atomic stacks, a distinctive feature of the material. In perspective, given the experimentally accessible magnitude of critical fields in bilayer of CdOHCl, one can envisage p band magnetism to be exploited in miniaturized spintronic devices.
Demonstration of quantum volume 64 on a superconducting quantum computing system
Authors: Jurcevic Petar , Javadi-Abhari Ali , Bishop Lev S , Lauer Isaac , Bogorin Daniela F , Brink Markus , Capelluto Lauren , Günlük Oktay , Itoko Toshinari , Kanazawa Naoki , Kandala Abhinav , Keefe George A , Krsulich Kevin , Landers William , Lewandowski Eric P , McClure Douglas T , Nannicini Giacomo , Narasgond Adinath , Nayfeh Hasan M , Pritchett Emily , Rothwell Mary Beth , Srinivasan Srikanth , Sundaresan Neereja , Wang Cindy , Wei Ken X , Wood Christopher J , Yau Jeng-Bang , Zhang Eric J , Dial Oliver E , Chow Jerry M , Gambetta Jay M
Published: February 2021

We improve the quality of quantum circuits on superconducting quantum computing systems, as measured by the quantum volume (QV), with a combination of dynamical decoupling, compiler optimizations, shorter two-qubit gates, and excited state promoted readout. This result shows that the path to larger QV systems requires the simultaneous increase of coherence, control gate fidelities, measurement fidelities, and smarter software which takes into account hardware details, thereby demonstrating the need to continue to co-design the software and hardware stack for the foreseeable future.
Affine functions and Busemann functions on complete Finsler manifolds
Authors: Innami Nobuhiro , Itokawa Yoe , Nagano Tetsuya , Shiohama Katsuhiro
Published: February 2021

We clarify the relation between an affine function and a Busemann function in a geodesically complete Finsler manifold. As an application, we give the characterization of a Minkowski space by means of the dimension of the vector space consisting of all affine functions on a Finsler manifold.
Discontinuity of Straightening in Anti-holomorphic Dynamics: I
Authors: Inou Hiroyuki , Mukherjee Sabyasachi
Published: February 2021

It is well known that baby Mandelbrot sets are homeomorphic to the original one. We study baby Tricorns appearing in the Tricorn, which is the connectedness locus of quadratic anti-holomorphic polynomials, and show that the dynamically natural straightening map from a baby Tricorn to the original Tricorn is discontinuous at infinitely many explicit parameters. This is the first known example of discontinuity of straightening maps on a real two-dimensional slice of an analytic family of holomorphic polynomials. The proof of discontinuity is carried out by showing that all non-real umbilical cords of the Tricorn wiggle, which settles a conjecture made by various people including Hubbard, Milnor, and Schleicher.
LIN-10 can promote LET-23 EGFR signaling and trafficking independently of LIN-2 and LIN-7
Authors: Gauthier Kimberley D. , Rocheleau Christian E.
Published: February 2021

The LIN-2/LIN-7/LIN-10 complex is necessary for Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR) basolateral membrane localization and signaling during C. elegans vulval development. Here we found that LIN-10 can independently promote EGFR localization and signaling. Distinct domains of LIN-10 mediate its complex-dependent and complex-independent functions.
The Impact of Same-Day Antiretroviral Therapy Initiation Under the World Health Organization Treat-All Policy
Authors: Kerschberger Bernhard , Boulle Andrew , Kuwengwa Rudo , Ciglenecki Iza , Schomaker Michael
Published: February 2021

Rapid initiation of antiretroviral therapy (ART) is recommended for people living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), with the option to start treatment on the day of diagnosis (same-day ART). However, the effect of same-day ART remains unknown in realistic public sector settings. We established a cohort of ≥16-year-old patients who initiated first-line ART under a treat-all policy in Nhlangano (Eswatini) during 2014–2016, either on the day of HIV care enrollment (same-day ART) or 1–14 days thereafter (early ART). Directed acyclic graphs, flexible parametric survival analysis, and targeted maximum likelihood estimation (TMLE) were used to estimate the effect of same-day-ART initiation on a composite unfavorable treatment outcome (loss to follow-up, death, viral failure, treatment switch). Of 1,328 patients, 839 (63.2%) initiated same-day ART. The adjusted hazard ratio of the unfavorable outcome was higher, 1.48 (95% confidence interval: 1.16, 1.89), for same-day ART compared with early ART. TMLE suggested that after 1 year, 28.9% of patients would experience the unfavorable outcome under same-day ART compared with 21.2% under early ART (difference: 7.7%; 1.3%–14.1%). This estimate was driven by loss to follow-up and varied over time, with a higher hazard during the first year after HIV care enrollment and a similar hazard thereafter. We found an increased risk with same-day ART. A limitation was that possible silent transfers that were not captured.
Mandatory Retirement and Age, Race, and Gender Diversity of University Faculties
Authors: Ho Daniel E , Mbonu Oluchi , McDonough Anne
Published: February 2021

While many have documented the changing demographics of universities, understanding the effects of prohibiting mandatory retirement (“uncapping”) has proved challenging. We digitize detailed directories of all American law school faculty from 1971–2017 and show that uncapping in 1994 had dramatic effects. From 1971 to 1993, the percent of faculty above 70—when mandatory retirement would typically have been triggered—remained stable at 1%, but starting in 1994, that proportion increased to 14%. We use a permutation test of moving cohorts to show that these increases are attributable to uncapping. Roughly 39% of faculty members would counterfactually have been subject to mandatory retirement. Effects were less pronounced at public schools, which were more likely to have defined benefits retirement plans. Second, we show that schools with the highest proportion of faculty over 70, and thus most impacted by uncapping, also exhibit the slowest integration of female and minority faculty members. Our study highlights crosscutting effects of civil rights laws: preventing age discrimination can have collateral effects on racial and gender integration.
Comparing fruiting phenology across two historical datasets: Thoreau’s observations and herbarium specimens
Authors: Miller Tara K , Gallinat Amanda S , Smith Linnea C , Primack Richard B
Published: February 2021

Background and Aims

Fruiting remains under-represented in long-term phenology records, relative to leaf and flower phenology. Herbarium specimens and historical field notes can fill this gap, but selecting and synthesizing these records for modern-day comparison requires an understanding of whether different historical data sources contain similar information, and whether similar, but not equivalent, fruiting metrics are comparable with one another.

Methods

For 67 fleshy-fruited plant species, we compared observations of fruiting phenology made by Henry David Thoreau in Concord, Massachusetts (1850s), with phenology data gathered from herbarium specimens collected across New England (mid-1800s to 2000s). To identify whether fruiting times and the order of fruiting among species are similar between datasets, we compared dates of first, peak and last observed fruiting (recorded by Thoreau), and earliest, mean and latest specimen (collected from herbarium records), as well as fruiting durations.

Key Results

On average, earliest herbarium specimen dates were earlier than first fruiting dates observed by Thoreau; mean specimen dates were similar to Thoreau’s peak fruiting dates; latest specimen dates were later than Thoreau’s last fruiting dates; and durations of fruiting captured by herbarium specimens were longer than durations of fruiting observed by Thoreau. All metrics of fruiting phenology except duration were significantly, positively correlated within (r: 0.69–0.88) and between (r: 0.59–0.85) datasets.

Conclusions

Strong correlations in fruiting phenology between Thoreau’s observations and data from herbaria suggest that field and herbarium methods capture similar broad-scale phenological information, including relative fruiting times among plant species in New England. Differences in the timing of first, last and duration of fruiting suggest that historical datasets collected with different methods, scales and metrics may not be comparable when exact timing is important. Researchers should strongly consider matching methodology when selecting historical records of fruiting phenology for present-day comparisons.
Molecular hybridization based on (−)-epigallocatechin gallate as a new class of antiglycation agents
Authors: Jeong Gyeong Han , Park Seungil , Kim Seong Bong , Jo Cheorun , Kim Tae Hoon
Published: February 2021

(−)–Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) and olivetol hybrid molecules 1-4 were conveniently synthesized using dielectric barrier discharge plasma irradiation. The structures of these unprecedented hybrid molecules were determined by interpretation of spectroscopic data. The unusual hybrid 1 showed improved antiglycation potency toward the advanced formation of glycation end products than the original EGCG and olivetol. The novel hybrid 1 is an interesting new class of antiglycation candidate that requires further investigation.
Haemorrhoidal haemodynamic changes in patients with haemorrhoids treated using Doppler-guided dearterialization
Authors: Parello A , Litta F , De Simone V , Campennì P , Orefice R , Marra A A , Goglia M , Santoro L , Santoliquido A , Ratto C
Published: February 2021

Background

Arterial hyperflow to haemorrhoids has been implicated as a possible pathophysiological co-factor in haemorrhoidal disease. The purpose of this study was to investigate how transanal haemorrhoidal dearterialization (THD) can influence haemodynamic parameters at the level of the haemorrhoidal piles.

Methods

Patients with grade III haemorrhoids selected for THD between July and December 2018 were evaluated using endoanal ultrasonography and colour Doppler imaging at the level of internal haemorrhoids before and 1 year after the surgical procedure. Peak systolic velocity, pulsatility index, resistivity index, acceleration time, and end-diastolic velocity were measured, and preoperative and postoperative values compared. Symptom severity was measured using a symptom-based questionnaire (score range 0–20).

Results

Of 21 patients treated, 17 completed the study. Compared with preoperative values, postoperative peak systolic velocity (mean(s.d.) 18.7(1.1) versus 10.3(0.4) cm/s; P < 0.05), pulsatility index (5.5(0.3) versus 2.8(0.4); P < 0.050), and resistivity index (1.0(0.2) versus 0.8(0.5); P < 0.050) decreased significantly, whereas acceleration time increased significantly (65.6(3.6) versus 83.3(4.7) cm/s2; P < 0.050); end-diastolic velocity did not change (1.9(0.2) versus 2.0(0.4); P = 0.753). Symptoms disappeared or had improved significantly in all patients by 1 year after surgery. The mean(s.d.) total symptom severity score decreased from 15.8(1.1) to 1.2(1.6) (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

THD affects the main haemodynamic parameters at the level of internal haemorrhoids and is associated with a decrease in arterial hyperflow.
Identification of cardiovascular high-risk groups from dynamic retinal vessel signals using untargeted machine learning
Authors: Werfel Stanislas , Günthner Roman , Hapfelmeier Alexander , Hanssen Henner , Kotliar Konstantin , Heemann Uwe , Schmaderer Christoph
Published: February 2021

Aims

Dynamic retinal vessel analysis (DVA) provides a non-invasive way to assess microvascular function in patients and potentially to improve predictions of individual cardiovascular (CV) risk. The aim of our study was to use untargeted machine learning on DVA in order to improve CV mortality prediction and identify corresponding response alterations.

Methods and results

We adopted a workflow consisting of noise reduction and extraction of independent components within DVA signals. Predictor performance was assessed in survival random forest models. Applying our technique to the prediction of all-cause mortality in a cohort of 214 haemodialysis patients resulted in the selection of a component which was highly correlated to maximal venous dilation following flicker stimulation (vMax), a previously identified predictor, confirming the validity of our approach. When fitting for CV mortality as the outcome of interest, a combination of three components derived from the arterial signal resulted in a marked improvement in predictive performance. Clustering analysis suggested that these independent components identified groups of patients with substantially higher CV mortality.

Conclusion

Our results provide a machine learning workflow to improve the predictive performance of DVA and identify groups of haemodialysis patients at high risk of CV mortality. Our approach may also prove to be promising for DVA signal analysis in other CV disease states.
Impacts of switching tillage to no-tillage and vice versa on soil structure, enzyme activities and prokaryotic community profiles in Argentinean semi-arid soils
Authors: Gabbarini Luciano A , Figuerola Eva , Frene Juan P , Robledo Natalia B , Ibarbalz Federico M , Babin Doreen , Smalla Kornelia , Erijman Leonardo , Wall Luis G
Published: February 2021

The effects of tillage on soil structure, physiology and microbiota structure were studied in a long-term field experiment, with side-to-side plots, established to compare effects of conventional tillage (CT) vs no-till (NT) agriculture. After 27 years, part of the field under CT was switched to NT and vice versa. Soil texture, soil enzymatic profiles and the prokaryotic community structure (16S rRNA genes amplicon sequencing) were analyzed at two soil depths (0–5 and 5–10 cm) in samples taken 6, 18 and 30 months after switching tillage practices. Soil enzymatic activities were higher in NT than CT, and enzymatic profiles responded to the changes much earlier than the overall prokaryotic community structure. Beta diversity measurements of the prokaryotic community indicated that the levels of stratification observed in long-term NT soils were already recovered in the new NT soils 30 months after switching from CT to NT. Bacteria and Archaea OTUs that responded to NT were associated with coarse soil fraction, soil organic carbon and C cycle enzymes, while CT responders were related to fine soil fractions and S cycle enzymes. This study showed the potential of managing the soil prokaryotic community and soil health through changes in agricultural management practices.
A High-Quality Reference Genome for a Parasitic Bivalve with Doubly Uniparental Inheritance (Bivalvia: Unionida)
Authors: Smith Chase H
Published: February 2021

From a genomics perspective, bivalves (Mollusca: Bivalvia) have been poorly explored with the exception for those of high economic value. The bivalve order Unionida, or freshwater mussels, has been of interest in recent genomic studies due to their unique mitochondrial biology and peculiar life cycle. However, genomic studies have been hindered by the lack of a high-quality reference genome. Here, I present a genome assembly of Potamilus streckersoni using Pacific Bioscience single-molecule real-time long reads and 10X Genomics-linked read sequencing. Further, I use RNA sequencing from multiple tissue types and life stages to annotate the reference genome. The final assembly was far superior to any previously published freshwater mussel genome and was represented by 2,368 scaffolds (2,472 contigs) and 1,776,755,624 bp, with a scaffold N50 of 2,051,244 bp. A high proportion of the assembly was comprised of repetitive elements (51.03%), aligning with genomic characteristics of other bivalves. The functional annotation returned 52,407 gene models (41,065 protein, 11,342 tRNAs), which was concordant with the estimated number of genes in other freshwater mussel species. This genetic resource, along with future studies developing high-quality genome assemblies and annotations, will be integral toward unraveling the genomic bases of ecologically and evolutionarily important traits in this hyper-diverse group.
Understanding Key Home and Community Environment Challenges Encountered by Older Adults Undergoing Total Knee or Hip Arthroplasty
Authors: Joshi Rutali , Joseph Anjali , Mihandoust Sahar , Hoskins Lisa , O’Hara Susan , Dye Cheryl J , Chalil Madathil Kapil
Published: February 2021

Background and Objectives

Older adults undergoing total hip arthroplasty (THA) and total knee arthroplasty (TKA) experience significant challenges while navigating their homes after surgery and are at higher risk for falls and injuries. This study explored the specific home and community physical environment challenges faced by community-dwelling older adults while performing daily activities and actions taken to modify their homes before surgery.

Research Design and Methods

Using a qualitative descriptive methodology, semistructured interviews were conducted with 22 older adult–care partner dyads pre- and postsurgery to identify key built environment barriers and facilitators in addition to home modifications made pre- and postsurgery.

Results

Challenges anticipated by participants to perform daily activities presurgery varied from those experienced postsurgery. Lack of support along stairs or in bathrooms, flooring material, and transitions were significant concerns raised by the participants before surgery. Size and layout of home and ergonomics of resting furniture were recognized as issues postsurgery. Modifications ranged from easy fixes such as rearranging furniture, removing clutter, and installing grab bars to high-cost structural changes such as remodeling critical spaces such as bathrooms. Although participants agreed on the importance of conducting proactive home assessments and modifications before surgery, perceived costs and lack of knowledge or services limit older adults from implementing some changes.

Discussion and Implications

Home modifications must be considered proactively before an event such as a THA or TKA. These should be done within the context of the specific needs, abilities, financial capabilities, and social and physical home environments of the individual and the residential caregivers.
Inpatient and Postdischarge Outcomes Following Inhalation Injury Among Critically Injured Burn Patients
Authors: Witt Cordelie E , Stewart Barclay T , Rivara Frederick P , Mandell Samuel P , Gibran Nicole S , Pham Tam N , Arbabi Saman
Published: February 2021

Inhalation injury is associated with high inpatient mortality, but the impact of inhalation injury after discharge and on non-mortality outcomes is poorly characterized. To address this gap, we evaluated the effect of inhalation injury on postdischarge morbidity, mortality, and hospital readmissions among patients who sustained burn injury, as well as on in-hospital outcomes for context. This was a retrospective cohort study of patients with cutaneous fire/flame burns admitted to a burn center intensive care unit from January 1, 2009 to December 31, 2015, with or without inhalation injury. Records were linked to statewide hospital admission and vital statistics databases to assess postdischarge outcomes. Mixed-effects Poisson regression was used to assess mortality, complications, and readmissions. The overall cohort included 830 patients with cutaneous burns; of these, 201 patients had inhalation injury. In-hospital mortality was 31% among inhalation injury patients vs 6% in patients without inhalation injury (adjusted OR 2.35; 95% CI 1.66–3.31). Inhalation injury was also associated with an increased risk of in-hospital pneumonia and tracheostomy (P < .05 for all). Inhalation injury was not associated with greater postdischarge mortality, all-cause readmission, readmission for pulmonary diagnosis, or readmission requiring intubation. Among the subset of patients with bronchoscopy-confirmed inhalation injury (n = 124; 62% of inhalation injuries), a higher injury grade was not associated with greater inpatient or postdischarge mortality. Inhalation injury was associated with increased early morbidity and mortality, but did not contribute to postdischarge mortality or readmission. These findings have implications for shared decision making with patients and families and for estimating healthcare utilization after initial hospitalization.
Beyond Trade War: Reevaluating Intellectual Property Bilateralism in the US–China Context
Authors: Shu Shang Carrie , Shen Wei
Published: February 2021

The Economic and Trade Agreement between the USA and the People’s Republic of China (hereinafter the ‘Phase One Agreement’) concluded in January 2020 leaves many important questions unanswered. This article goes beyond narrow textualist approaches and seeks to conceptualize the current trade tension by providing an alternative narrative with a focus on China’s post–Trade War commitments to higher intellectual property rights standards. In particular, it focuses on the bilateral interaction between the USA and China during and shortly after the Trade War and how the interaction impacts China’s legal changes from a transnational law perspective. It further argues that US-reinforced intellectual property rights rules have potentially paved the way for further US–China trade and investment talks. However, in order to better maintain a long-term balance between preservation of policymaking autonomy and regulation of protectionist measures, an approach better aligned with the World Trade Organization framework needs to be pursued.