bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biodiversity conservation through sustainable agriculture, its relevanve to climate change: a review on Indonesia situation
Authors: Harnowo D , Indriani FC , Susanto GWA , Prayogo Y , Mejaya I M J
Published: November 2021

A productive agriculture depends on diversity of biodiversity that extends from crops (including food crops) and livestock to their wild relatives, and beyond this to a vast array of other flora and fauna. There is a close relationship among agriculture productivity, biodiversity conservation and livelihood objectives. Biodiversity loss have significant impact to agriculture and economic development. Since sustainable agriculture in Indonesia has not yet been well implemented, our challenge today is how to push such agriculture so as to promote agrobiodiversity, and it is clear that sustainable agriculture both promote and is enhanced by biodiversity. Or, biodiversity conservation can be implemented through sustainable agriculture. Agriculture, ecosystem, and biodiversity are affected by climate change which is now ongoing. Ecosystem play a major role in reducing the impact of climate change. Since biodiversity and agriculture are in it, thus best management of ecosystem can play an important role in climate change mitigation and social adaptation, but will only provide benefits if deployed in conjunction with a redution in fosil fuel emissions. Thus, sustainable agriculture can also contribute to conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity, and also to reduce the impact of climate change.
Growth and production evaluation of corn varieties and genotypes grow from seed with different storage ages
Authors: Edy  , Muchdar Amina , Numba Sudirman , Takdir Andi
Published: November 2021

Quality seeds are one of the important elements in maintaining plant potential. One of the factors that can affect the growth potential and production of corn for each variety or genotype is the storage ages of the seeds. The purpose of this study was to obtain varieties or genotypes of corn that have the ability to grow and produce optimally from seeds that have been stored for one and six months. The research was conducted from August to December 2020 at the Cereal Research Institute, Maros, South Sulawesi, Indonesia. The seeds used were Variety of Srikandi Putih, Waxy Corn and Genotype of BC2F1. This study was designed using a randomized block design (RBD) with a two-factor. The first factor is the type of variety/genotype (V) consisting of Srikandi Putih (V1), Waxy Corn (V2) and Genotype of BC2F1 (V3). The second factor is seed storage ages (U) consisting of: 1 month (U1) and 6 months (U2). From these two factors, 6 treatment combinations were obtained which were repeated three times to obtain 18 experimental units. The data were analyzed with the SAS 9 for windows program. The results showed that the seed storage ages of 1 month could maintain the potential for plant height growth, and the weight of 100 seeds in the Variety of Srikandi Putih, Waxy Corn and Genotypes of BC2F1. Seed storage ages of 1 and 6 months did not affect the number of leaves and flowering time, but only 1 month of seed storage ages that could maintain the potential for seed production in Variety of Srikandi Putih, Waxy Corn and Genotypes of BC2F1.
Prospect of development of 2:1 “Jajar Legowo” planting system technology in the development of rice area, Takalar District
Authors: Muslimin  , Wahid Abdul , Sarintang  , Subagio Herman
Published: November 2021

Technology is one factor in increasing agricultural production capacity. The use of new technologies will increase the use of inputs, making it possible to achieve production and farm efficiency. The jajar legowo (double row) system is a technological engineering to obtain a plant population of more than 160,000 per hectare. The implementation of Jajar Legowo in addition to increasing the cropping population, is also able to increase the smooth circulation of sunlight and air around the pingir plants so that the plants can photosynthesize better. Assistance in the application of engineering technology for the legowo row 2: 1 system was carried out in Panrannuangku sub-district, Polut sub-district, Takalar district. The technology engineering of the legowo row 2: 1 system is supported by other technologies that are applied through pilot farming models (demfarm) at strategic locations in the development area that have fairly good access, which can be seen by the community in the assisted area. The selection of the demfarm location is determined together with the farmer groups, field officers / PLL and stakeholders involved so that it can be ascertained that the pilot farming model can represent the conditions of the development area to be built. The results of the assistance in the area of rice farming in irrigated rice fields in Takalar Regency, South Sulawesi, show that the development of the rice crop area has a large enough opportunity to be developed with the support of legowo row 2: 1 technology engineering and institutional innovation. The results of the assistance for the paddy farming area with a 2: 1 legowo row technology engineering planting system in the irrigated rice fields of Takalar Regency also provide understanding to the relevant agencies starting from the planned mentoring model to the implementation stages. The rice technology demfarm with the legowo row system technology engineering 2: 1 showed an increase in yield from 4-5 tonnes per ha (local productivity) to 7-8 tonnes per ha.
Understanding the relationship among the determinants of rice cropping index in Deli Serdang Regency
Authors: Napitupulu Delima , Siagian Deddy Romulo , Simatupang Sortha , Girsang Setia Sari , Marpaung Imelda
Published: November 2021

The cropping index of rice is one of determining factors to increase rice production. In certain areas of Deli Serdang Regency, the rice crop has high possibility of being sowed three times annually. Unfortunately, some parts of this regency still have a low cropping index, then affecting the stagnant production. Hence, this study was conducted to identify the determinant variables and explain their relationship with rice cropping index and also to construct the strategic actions to increase the rice cropping index. This study was conducted in six districts with 180 total respondents, using household-based survey method. The descriptive statistics analysis and Pearson correlation analysis were performed using the SPSS tool to achieve the objectives. The result shows that frequency of flood occurrence on riceland, productivity, total income from agricultural sector, number of household member, age, education level, distance of irrigation channel to the riceland and the irrigation status are the significant determinants of rice cropping index. In addition, some strategic actions that have to introduced to the local government and the farmers are sowing the adaptive varieties which is tolerant on flooding condition; using the precise planting calendar to find the exact schedule for planting time; planting the certified variety that gives high productivity; increasing the capacity building, especially the cultivation skill, through following the technical guidance; cconstructing the irrigation system and repairing/maintaining the irrigation infrastructures; and harvesting the water to support the sustainable water for riceland.
Financial analysis of red chili farming business with green cultivation technology in South Sulawesi
Authors: Muslimin  , Taufik Muh , Thamrin Muh , Suddin Andi Faisal
Published: November 2021

The demand for chili production continues to increase in Indonesia and South Sulawesi in particular, both for local, inter-island demand and the potential for export. On the other hand, chili production is still low. Chili productivity in 2010 was only 5.6 t/ha, although the potential productivity can reach 12 t/ha. Therefore, an assessment of chili technology innovation according to GAP in South Sulawesi was carried out through the application of efficient chili technology innovation, appreciation of local wisdom and environmental insight. The assessment was carried out in a participatory manner in the chili development center area in Maros Regency, South Sulawesi involving 4 cooperative farmers in an area of 1.0 ha. The data used are production, inputs used, output prices, input prices. To determine the farming use R/R (Return Cost Ratio) analysis, and to determine the optimal level of use of production inputs obtained from the application of chili technology is to calculate MBCR (marginal benefit cost ratio) or IBCR (incrementel benefit cost ratio). The results of the study showed 1) The application of GAP in red chili cultivation resulted in higher chili production and a smaller number of anthracnose attacks than the farmers’ treatment. 2) Chili productivity achieved in P1 treatment reached 24.64 t/ha, significantly different from P2 treatment which reached 27.52 t/h, but not significantly different from P3 treatment reached 25.92 t/ha. 3) The application of GAP can increase farmers’ income from Rp. 173.14 million to Rp. 194.25 million or an increase in revenue of 10.86% with an IBCR of 2.05.
Influence of seed priming on germination characteristics of sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L. Moench)
Authors: Arief Ramlah , Koes Fauziah , Komalasari Oom , Fatmawati
Published: November 2021

Seed priming or invigoration is presowing treatments of improving germination aimed to reduce the time from sowing to emergence and improving emergence uniformity. Research on seed priming was conducted Indonesian Cereal Research Institute (ICERI) seed laboratory from January until March 2021 to evaluate the effect of seed priming on sorghum seed vigor. Seed quality parameters includes germination percentages, germination rate, shoot and primary root length, seedling dryweight, Sorghum seed variety of Suri 4 were used as seed material. Results showed that among the priming treatments that give positive effect on germination percentage, germination rate, seedling dry weight were priming treatment with KNO31.5%.
Organoleptic properties evaluation of Ternate Nutmeg (Myristica fragrans Houtt)
Authors: Baharuddin  , Maryani  , Laga Suriani , Fitriyah Andi Tenri , Nurhayati  , Andi Nur Amalia A , Utami Ratri Retno , Indriana Dwi
Published: November 2021

Ternate City, North Maluku Province is a producer of nutmeg. The nutmeg that is cultivated comes from smallholder plantations. So far, post-harvest handling is still traditionally with simple equipment and poor hygienic which results in low-quality nutmeg. Efforts to improve post-harvest handling need to be done to improve the quality and farmer’s income. The purpose of this activity is to provide knowledge on good post-harvest handling of nutmeg in Ternate. One of the phases of activity carried out is through a survey to farmers to identify the organoleptic properties of nutmeg, as well as testing the water and vitamin C content of the nutmeg. The test results show that the drying process is not optimal because the resulting water content does not meet Indonesian National Standard (SNI), which is above 10%. The content of vitamin C in the flesh is 22 mg. Meanwhile, the organoleptic properties found that the colour, flavour, and taste were the most preferred by the farmer in the mace, seed, and flesh, respectively. The results of this activity can provide information about the characteristics of nutmeg that have been produced by Ternate farmers as a recommendation for proper post-harvest handling of nutmeg.
Socio-economy dynamics of hybrid corn farmers in South Sulawesi
Authors: Sarintang  , Yasin Muh. , Syam Amiruddin , Adriani W A. , Muslimin
Published: November 2021

The development of agriculture through technological processes in the field of agriculture is a dynamic of society that results in certain changes in its socio-economic life. The changes that occur in the farming community of hybrid corn seed production include changes in social aspects and economic aspects. In an effort to increase the production and productivity of hybrid corn, quality seeds are needed. To obtain quality seeds, internal and external monitoring is required in accordance with the management of seed quality standards. In seed production, there are two obstacles that are often faced, including social constraints in setting planting distance and time isolation, roguing, and detasseling. Economic constraints are caused by limited capital owned by farmers and the marketing system that is tied to the rights of seed licensors. To anticipate the obstacles that arise in the farming community, the role of the government is needed to take various steps and policies that can support farmers in dealing with their problems. In this case, government support is highly expected in determining the mapping of the seed area so that it can guarantee the purity of the crop in seed production.
Mechanical Characterization of TiO2 nanoparticles based on Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer Composite
Authors: Singh Abhishek , Jayswal S. C.
Published: November 2021

Nanotechnology has become the best truly developing innovation in the field of engineering science. Numerous examinations have been completed by different exploration researchers in the prior many years. In my examination work research, the impact of cross breed E-glass built up fiber with epoxy Nano composite. The Nano composite covers overlays were set up by hand layup procedures by shifting layers of Titanium Dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles of 0.6% individually. The nano added substances are utilized to improve the strength from destroy opposition, hardness of the polymer composite and high strength to weight ratio. The Nano composite laminates this prepared are characterized by the compression and flexural test. The flexural properties of the glass fiber built up plastic improved with expansion of nanoTiO2 filler particles. At 0.6 wt% of TiO2 and having 12 layers the force at yield is 327.99N and bending stiffness 63.11 N/mm and in 9 layers force at yield is 149.06 and bending stiffness 36.22 N/mm. True interfacial bonding b/w the fiber and epoxy turned into the primary motive for reaching higher flexural properties.
Comparative assessment of hard turning under dry and minimum quantity lubrication
Authors: Shaikh Avez , Shinde Ajinkya , Chinchanikar Satish , Zagade Guruprasad , Pardeshi Sonia
Published: November 2021

Hard turning with CBN and ceramic inserts is commonly regarded as a cost-effective alternative to grinding. However, there have been few studies comparing hard turning with low-cost carbide tools to high-cost CBN and ceramic cutting tools. However, when it comes to the usage of cutting coolant during severe turning, there are mixed outcomes. In this study, a PVD-coated TiSiN-TiAlN carbide tool was used to hard turn AISI 52100 steel in a dry and MQL environment. Through multi-objective optimization, a comparative assessment in terms of surface roughness, cutting force, and tool life under various cutting settings is provided. In terms of three components of cutting force, surface roughness, and tool life, mathematical models were constructed to forecast and improve machining performance. Under both dry and MQL conditions, the study discovered an optimal cutting speed of 108 m/min, a feed value of 0.09 mm/rev, and a depth of cut of 0.16 mm. Under MQL, hard turning produced optimal surface roughness and tool life of 0.88 m and 64 minutes, respectively. In comparison to hard turning under dry cutting, the optimal surface roughness was 1.07 m and the tool life was 49 minutes. Under MQL, tool life increased by over 31%, according to the findings of the experiments. Under dry and MQL conditions, however, no significant differences in cutting forces and surface roughness were identified.
Ridge Gap Waveguide based band pass filter for Ku-band Application
Authors: Chhasatia Neetirajsinh J , Chaudhari Jitendra P , Patel Amit V
Published: November 2021

This paper describes a simple, low loss, compact tuneable band pass filter based on ridge gap waveguide (RGW) technology for the Ku-band applications. This is achieved by keeping the height of the air gap in the gap guide structure equal to the thickness of the substrate or base of the structure. The resonant frequency and electromagnetic (EM) field distribution of the structure is investigated. This filter is designed by inserting the proposed ridge in the cut-off region of the gap waveguide. The frequency of tuning has been carried out using the slot created on ridge, which generates capacitive effect. Experimental results of the manufactured structure show an insertion loss of approximately 0.15 dB and a return loss of 16.38 dB over 4.5% relative bandwidth in Ku-band. The structure, put forwarded here, has been designed and optimized in the CST microwave studio environment and simulated results are validated by experimental results. The size of the structure is 64.65 mm × 64.65 mm × 7 mm.
2-Dimensional inline system for peppermint oil extraction
Authors: Anas M , Sharma A
Published: November 2021

Peppermint leaves have wide range of applications in medicines, toothpastes, soaps, mouth fresheners, chewing gums etc. However, in India, the traditional way of processing peppermint leaves for extraction of peppermint oil is slow, tedious, labour intensive, hazardous, and causes skin problem as well.

This paper proposes a method of mechanizing the post harvesting process, with least modification in the current apparatus being used by the farmers in the Indian villages. It proposes a non-electric 2-dimensional Mechanized system for movement and compaction of the compact/hay. The mechanism will help to reduce the number of labourers per unit hay volume and the risk associated with the contact of in-process hay with their skin. Also, a lot of time is wasted in putting the leaves/hay in the boiler vessel, preparing the hay in a compact form and in removing the processed leaves.

This paper is an attempt to get rid of most of the problems aforementioned and make the process safe, efficient, less labour intensive and more economical for farmers and workers. The mechanism proposed is sustainable and farmer friendly as it does not require any special training for its operation. It will increase the profit of small scale industries with small capital investment for the setup.
Investigation of substitute jar materials for Laboratory grade ball milling machine to process electrode materials for energy storage devices
Authors: Shinde Sourabh , Momin Taukir , Karkaria Vispi , Karandikar Parshuram
Published: November 2021

Copious forms of energy are available in nature, but electrical energy is the convenient form of energy. As a result of this, it is expected that the need for electrical energy will increase considerably by the end of this decade. Thus, the storage of electrical energy is now becoming of paramount importance. Nevertheless, ultra-capacitors are currently a central area of research for energy storage devices due to their high-power density rating, short charging time and long cycling time. The capacitance of an ultra-capacitor is majorly a result of the processing of its electrode materials. Ball milling is one of the most profitable and cost-effective processes of electrode material processing. However, in most of the ball milling research, the focal point is on materials used for balls in ball milling. It is also observed that the material used to produce ball mill jars is of equal momentousness. So, this research aims to examine various materials as jars for a ball milling machine.
Finite Element Model for Free Vibration Analyses of FG-CNT Reinforced Composite Beams using Refined Shear Deformation Theories
Authors: Biswas Surojit , Datta Priyankar
Published: November 2021

The present article deals with the free vibration of functionally graded carbon nanotube reinforced composite (FG-CNTRC) beams employing various refined deformation theories and validates the accuracy and feasibility of these proposed theories. The theories involved are the first order shear deformation theory (FSDT) and other refined theories involving additional higher order terms. Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are assumed to be oriented along the axis of the beam. Uniform and three types of different functionally graded (FG) distributions of CNTs through the thickness of the beam are considered. The rule of mixture is used to describe the effective material properties of the beams. The governing equations are derived using Hamilton’s principle and solved using the finite element method (FEM). A FEM code is compiled in MATLAB considering a C
0 finite element. The influences of different key parameters such as CNT volume fraction, distribution type of CNTs, boundary conditions and slenderness ratio on the natural frequencies of FG-CNTRC beams are investigated. It can be concluded that the above-mentioned parameters have significant influence on the free vibration of the beam and the accuracy of the proposed refined theories is good.
Analysis of Electromagnetic Reflection Loss for Mesh Structure with A16061 MMC for Aerospace Applications
Authors: Bikkina Siva Chakra Avinash , Jayasree P.V.Y.
Published: November 2021

One of the major problems facing by the aircraft was a lightning strike. To overcome this problem, fiber-reinforced materials have been used. The fiber-reinforced materials have less conductivity. These fiber-reinforced materials can’t eliminate the lightning strike effect. For that purpose, the metal matrix composite materials significantly impacted the aircraft’s internal circuits and physical components from the lightning strike effect. To meet industries dynamic and ever-increasing demands, Al6061 metal matrix composite reinforced with fly ash must be utilized to build the aircraft to offer HIRF. The material thickness should be kept low as possible then it can be used to cover the plane’s surface. To prevent lightning strikes, it might be used to protect electronic components from a concentrated high-intensity radiated field, primarily in Aeroplan configuration. The electromagnetic characteristics of composites are measured using the X-band for normal incidence. The electromagnetic reflection properties of AL6061 reinforced with fly ash are studied in this study for mesh structure. Mat lab Software was used to calculate the maximum reflection loss of 33.88dB for 15% fly ash and 85 percent AL6061 at X-band.
Statistical Quality Study of the Parts Produced in an Automobile Industry: A Daimler India Case Study
Authors: Pati Tanmay , Kabra Shruti , Chadha Utkarsh
Published: November 2021

Every manufacturing industry considers defect-free production in this competitive era. Though it is practically impossible to improve the rate of defect minimization, statistical tools can be used. In this case study, we take data from Daimler India, an automobile part manufacturing industry specialized in manufacturing OEM tools like chassis, oil filter nipple, and so on, and study how many defects are made during the day. The defect-causing process was eliminated after using statistical quality control tools such as np charts and cumulative sum charts, resulting in higher production quality.
Economics-Based Payback and Life Cycle Cost Savings Assessment of Inverter Type Air Conditioners
Authors: Gupta Sunil Kumar , Arora B B , Arora Akhilesh
Published: November 2021

This paper investigates the options for a consumer to choose between different inverter and non-inverter type residential air conditioners (ACs) concerning their payback periods (PPs) and Life Cycle Cost (LCC) savings. The economics-based analysis carried out to evaluate the PPs by which the costs associated with owning and operating 3-star, 4-star, and 5-star inverter AC models are recoverable compared to non-inverter type (baseline model). The product costs (Cp
), the repair costs (CR
), the maintenance costs (CM
), and the energy costs (CE
) are taken as the decision parameters for evaluating the payback periods (PPs). It is shown that PP strongly depends on the energy cost. Estimates of P P s are calculated as the futurs value of present cost involved in buying, maintaining, and running the ACs. It is concluded that inverter technology can save electrical energy by 12-22.4% compared to a non-inverter air conditioner. PP of 3-star inverter AC is estimated 2.17 years while P P of 4-star and 5-star inverter ACs are 2.42 years and 2.33 years for 10 hours operation in a day when a higher slab of unit energy cost is considered. Depending on PP and daily usage requirements, a consumer can choose either a less efficient AC priced at a lower initial cost but more running cost or a more efficient AC priced at a higher initial cost but lesser running cost.
Electromagnetic shielding effectiveness for A16061 metal matrix composite based mesh wire reinforced with Flyash for oblique incidence of EM wave
Authors: Budumuru Srinu , Satya Anuradha M.
Published: November 2021

Nowadays, flywire is used exclusively in aeronautical applications. A plane’s complete control is dependent on electronic technology, yet it suffers from high-intensity radiated fields. An electromagnetic shield may be necessary to protect this equipment from external electromagnetic pollution. The current project attempts to create a protective barrier around the operating equipment to enhance its efficiency. AL6061 composite material was used to create a metal matrix mesh shield. It is reinforced with fly ash in various volume fractions, and the electrical characteristics and Shielding Effectiveness are determined (SE). The maximum SE is 45.36dB obtained, which can be effectively used as a shield for aerospace and other applications.
Systematic end-to-end testing of multiple target treatments using the modular RUBY phantom
Authors: Brodbek Leonie , Kretschmer Jana , Büsing Katrin , Looe Hui Khee , Poppe Björn , Poppinga Daniela
Published: November 2021

The RUBY head phantom in combination with the System QA insert MultiMet can be used for simultaneous point dose measurements at an isocentric and two off-axis positions. This study investigates the suitability of the system for systematic integral end-to-end testing of single-isocenter multiple target stereotactic treatments. Several volumetric modulated arc therapy plans were optimized on a planning CT of the phantom positioned in a stereotactic mask on the stereotactic treatment board. The plans were created for three artificial spherical target volumes centred around the measurement positions in the MultiMet insert. Target diameters between 5 and 40 mm were investigated. Coplanar and non-coplanar plans were optimized using the collapsed cone algorithm of the Oncentra Masterplan treatment planning system and recalculated with the Monte Carlo algorithm of the Monaco treatment planning system. Measurements were performed at an Elekta Synergy linear accelerator. The head phantom was positioned according to clinical workflow comprising immobilization and CBCT imaging. Simultaneous point dose measurements at all target positions were performed with three PinPoint 3D chambers (type 31022) as well as three microDiamond detectors (type 60019) and compared to the treatment planning system calculations. Furthermore, the angular dependence of the detector response was investigated to estimate the associated impact on the measured point dose values. Considering all investigated plans, PTV diameters and positions, the point doses calculated with the Monaco treatment planning system and the microDiamond measurements differed within 3.5%, whereas the PinPoint 3D showed differences of up to 6.9%. Point dose differences determined in comparison to the Oncentra Masterplan dose calculations were larger. The RUBY system was shown to be suitable for end-to-end testing of complex treatment scenarios such as single-isocenter multiple target plans.
Surface modification of silicone rubber by CF4 radio frequency capacitively coupled plasma for improvement of flashover
Authors: WANG Chenxu , ZHANG Bo , CHEN Sile , SUN Yuhao , YANG Xiong , PENG Yanan , CHEN Xingyu , ZHANG Guanjun
Published: November 2021

The flashover performance of insulating materials plays an important role in the development of high-voltage insulation systems. In this paper, silicone rubber (SIR) is modified by CF4 radio frequency capacitively coupled plasma (CCP) for the improvement of surface insulation performance. The discharge mode and active particles of CCP are diagnosed by the digital single-lens reflex and the spectrometer. Scanning electron microscopy and x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy are used for the surface physicochemical properties of samples, while the surface charge dissipation, charge accumulation measurement, and flashover test are applied for the surface electrical characteristics. Experimental results show that the fluorocarbon groups can be grafted and the surface roughness increases after plasma treatment. Besides, the surface charge dissipation is decelerated and the positive charge accumulation is inhibited obviously for the treated samples. Furthermore, the surface flashover voltage can be increased by 26.67% after 10 min of treatment. It is considered that strong electron affinity of C–F and increased surface roughness can contribute to deepening surface traps, which not only inhibits the development of secondary electron emission avalanche but also alleviates the surface charge accumulation and finally improves the surface flashover voltage of SIR.
Numerical simulation of hydrogen arcjet thruster with coupled sheath model
Authors: AKHARE Deepak , NANDYALA Hari Prasad , THANKAPPAN Jayachandran , KUMAR Amit
Published: November 2021

In the present work, a complete 2D chemical and thermal non-equilibrium numerical model coupled with a relatively simple sheath model is developed for hydrogen arcjet thruster. Conduction heat transfer in the anode wall is also included in the model. The operating voltages predicted by the model are compared with those in the literature and are found to be in close agreement. Power distributions for the various operating conditions are obtained, anode radiation loss primarily determines the thruster efficiency. Higher thruster efficiency was found to be associated with longer arc length. At cathode ion diffusion contribution dominates except at low input current where thermo-field electron current is dominant.
Filtering variational quantum algorithms for combinatorial optimization
Authors: Amaro David , Modica Carlo , Rosenkranz Matthias , Fiorentini Mattia , Benedetti Marcello , Lubasch Michael
Published: November 2021

Current gate-based quantum computers have the potential to provide a computational advantage if algorithms use quantum hardware efficiently. To make combinatorial optimization more efficient, we introduce the filtering variational quantum eigensolver which utilizes filtering operators to achieve faster and more reliable convergence to the optimal solution. Additionally we explore the use of causal cones to reduce the number of qubits required on a quantum computer. Using random weighted MaxCut problems, we numerically analyze our methods and show that they perform better than the original VQE algorithm and the quantum approximate optimization algorithm. We also demonstrate the experimental feasibility of our algorithms on a Quantinuum trapped-ion quantum processor powered by Honeywell.
On SINS\star tracker geo-localization
Authors: Bessaad Nassim , Bao Qilian , Jiangkang Zhao , Eliker Karam
Published: November 2021

This work focuses on the feasibility of a fully autonomous geo-localization system for near-earth applications based on the strap-down inertial navigation system (SINS) and the star tracker. First, each sensor is analyzed individually. Then, the performance of the integrated system in a dynamic situation is investigated through extensive simulations. An in-depth analysis of the contributing error factors is given, and the impact on geo-localization estimation process is highlighted. The navigation solution is proven to be affected by the sensors’ errors plus an algorithmic error from the dead reckoning computation. Lastly, simulations are concluded to assess the dynamic movement scenario’s performance and navigational possibility using the nonlinear Kalman filter. The results show the continuing divergence of the integrated navigation system affected by the dead reckoning algorithm and the instability of the vertical channel. However, the continuous initial alignment in static mode reinitializes the position error successfully.
Image Repair in Crisis Communication
Authors: Benoit William L.
Published: November 2021

Image repair theory observes that threats to image (for individuals, groups, and organizations, such as companies or countries) are inevitable. Because reputation is important, criticisms usually provoke a response, defense, or image repair message(s). Each attack (each criticism) has two components, offensiveness and blame. Defenses can address either component (e.g., arguing that an act was offensive or rejecting blame for it). Five general strategies and 14 tactics exist for image repair. Perceptions are key in image repair: the audience’s perceived image of the target prompts criticism and attack; the audience’s perceptions of the message influence the effectiveness of a defense.

Those who feel impelled to create image repair messages may face one or more audiences; the image concerns of various audiences may overlap or may be different. This means the defender must decide which audiences to address and develop image repair messages with this in mind. One must select one or more image repair strategies that the defender believes will be most effective with the target audience(s) and embed that strategy in one or more messages. Note that a defender should choose the most effective strategy or strategies; adding in more strategies does not necessary improve the defense. The defender must decide which medium or media should be used to get the message(s) to audience(s).

Image repair theory was developed to help understand threats to reputation, face, or image. Such threats are commonplace in human interaction, including contexts such as interpersonal communication, public communication, and social media.
Protein–RNA interaction prediction with deep learning: structure matters
Authors: Wei Junkang , Chen Siyuan , Zong Licheng , Gao Xin , Li Yu
Published: November 2021

Protein–RNA interactions are of vital importance to a variety of cellular activities. Both experimental and computational techniques have been developed to study the interactions. Because of the limitation of the previous database, especially the lack of protein structure data, most of the existing computational methods rely heavily on the sequence data, with only a small portion of the methods utilizing the structural information. Recently, AlphaFold has revolutionized the entire protein and biology field. Foreseeably, the protein–RNA interaction prediction will also be promoted significantly in the upcoming years. In this work, we give a thorough review of this field, surveying both the binding site and binding preference prediction problems and covering the commonly used datasets, features and models. We also point out the potential challenges and opportunities in this field. This survey summarizes the development of the RNA-binding protein–RNA interaction field in the past and foresees its future development in the post-AlphaFold era.
Frailty and cardiovascular mortality in more than 3 million US Veterans
Authors: Shrauner William , Lord Emily M , Nguyen Xuan-Mai T , Song Rebecca J , Galloway Ashley , Gagnon David R , Driver Jane A , Gaziano J Michael , Wilson Peter W F , Djousse Luc , Cho Kelly , Orkaby Ariela R
Published: November 2021

Aims

Frailty is associated with an increased risk of all-cause mortality and cardiovascular (CV) events. Limited data exist from the modern era of CV prevention on the relationship between frailty and CV mortality. We hypothesized that frailty is associated with an increased risk of CV mortality.

Methods and results

All US Veterans aged ≥65 years who were regular users of Veteran Affairs care from 2002 to 2017 were included. Frailty was defined using a 31-item previously validated frailty index, ranging from 0 to 1. The primary outcome was CV mortality with secondary analyses examining the relationship between frailty and CV events (myocardial infarction, stroke, revascularization). Survival analysis models were adjusted for age, sex, ethnicity, geographic region, smoking, hyperlipidaemia, statin use, and blood pressure medication use. There were 3 068 439 US Veterans included in the analysis. Mean age was 74.1 ± 5.8 years in 2002, 76.0 ± 8.3 years in 2014, 98% male, and 87.5% White. In 2002, the median (interquartile range) frailty score was 0.16 (0.10–0.23). This increased and stabilized to 0.19 (0.10–0.32) for 2006–14. The presence of frailty was associated with an increased risk of CV mortality at every stage of frailty. Frailty was associated with an increased risk of myocardial infarction and stroke, but not revascularization.

Conclusion

In this population, both the presence and severity of frailty are tightly correlated with CV death, independent of underlying CV disease. This study is the largest and most contemporary evaluation of the relationship between frailty and CV mortality to date. Further work is needed to understand how this risk can be diminished.

Key Question

Can an electronic frailty index identify adults aged 65 and older who are at risk of CV mortality and major CV events?

Key Finding

Among 3 068 439 US Veterans aged 65 and older, frailty was associated with an increased risk of CV mortality at every level of frailty. Frailty was also associated with an increased risk of myocardial infarction and stroke, but not revascularization.

Take Home Message

Both the presence and severity of frailty are associated with CV mortality and major CV events, independent of underlying CV disease.
Costs of Horn Fly (Diptera: Muscidae) Control for Cow-calf Producers in Tennessee and Texas, 2016
Authors: Smith K V , DeLong K L , Griffith A P , Boyer C N , Martinez C C , Schexnayder S M , Trout Fryxell R T
Published: November 2021

Tennessee and Texas cow-calf producers were surveyed to assess their 2016 expenses for horn fly control methods. Cattle producers who were members of the Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association and Tennessee cattle producers who have participated in the Tennessee Agricultural Enhancement Program participated in the survey. Average horn fly management costs in Tennessee and Texas were $9.50/head and $12.40/head, respectively. An ordinary least squares regression and quantile regression were estimated to examine how horn fly costs are influenced by producer and farm demographics, seasonality of horn flies, producer horn fly perceptions, and management practices. When controlling for these variables, Tennessee and Texas cattle producers did not spend significantly different amounts on horn fly control methods. Horn fly costs were associated with producer and farm demographics, producer perceptions of horn flies, and management practices. For example, results indicate that horn fly management costs vary depending on a producer’s level of education and income. Having Angus cattle and larger herd sizes were associated with lower costs per head spent on horn fly management. Producers who did not consider horn flies to be a problem until greater quantities of flies were present on the animal spent 15% less per head on managing horn flies. In terms of horn fly control methods, feedthrough insecticides increased horn fly costs the most, followed by using ear tags. This is the first known research to estimate horn fly management costs among cattle producers.
Suitability of Formulated Entomopathogenic Fungi Against Hibiscus Mealybug, Nipaecoccus viridis (Hemiptera: Pseudococcidae), Deployed Within Mesh Covers Intended to Protect Citrus From Huanglongbing
Authors: Olabiyi David O , Duren Emily B , Price Terri , Avery Pasco B , Hahn Philip G , Stelinski Lukasz L , Diepenbrock Lauren M
Published: November 2021

Mesh exclusion bags are increasingly being adopted by Florida citrus growers to protect young citrus trees from Asian citrus psyllid, Diaphorina citri Kuwayama, and Huanglongbing disease. These mesh bags exclude larger insects such as D. citri but may allow entry of minute insects. Hibiscus mealybugs, Nipaecoccus viridis (Newstead), have been observed thriving in the micro-habitat created by these covers on trees. Entomopathogenic fungi (EPF) and insect growth regulators (IGRs) are effective against several mealybug species under various growing conditions, but their efficacy against N. viridis or within the microclimate within exclusion bags is unknown. Therefore, we evaluated various formulations of entomopathogenic fungi with and without IGR against N. viridis using laboratory bioassays. We then conducted semifield bioassays to determine effectiveness of EPF formulations alone and in combination with an IGR applied to citrus trees enveloped within mesh bags under field conditions. Survival probabilities of N. viridis nymphs exposed to all Beauveria bassiana-based products tested were comparable to malathion under laboratory conditions and reduced survival as compared to controls (water only). Under field conditions, mortality of N. viridis nymphs on leaves sprayed with each fungal formulation tested was significantly greater than on control treatments (Water, Suffoil X, 435 oil) up to four weeks post application. There were no differences in the colony forming units per leaf area amongst all fungal treatments. Formulated B. bassiana-based products applied alone or combined with an IGR should be effective tools for managing N. viridis populations on young citrus trees protected with mesh exclusion bags.
Brahmin or Vīraśaiva? The Kannada Poet Rāghavāṅka between Idioms of Power and Devotion
Authors: Ben-Herut Gil
Published: November 2021

Rāghavāṅka lived in the first half of the thirteenth century, when the Kannada devotional tradition we now call ‘Vīraśaivism’ or ‘Liṅgāyatism’ was at a nascent phase; the use of these labels was tenuous and the social boundaries of the local devotional movement less rigidly defined.1 Unlike a simplistic but common perception of early devotional movement in the Kannada region as being anti-Brahmanical, egalitarian, quasi-democratic, anti-ritualistic, and so on,2 texts by Rāghavāṅka and others, which are the earliest we have, present a more complex picture of cultural negotiations and religious diversity, not only in relation to entities external to the local Śaiva tradition but also among Śaivas. This divergence is reflected even within the literary production of a single author: while most of Rāghavāṅka’s works can be easily read as primarily promoting devotional values that correspond to an inclusive, non-elite, and anti-court agenda, his most celebrated literary work, the Life of Hariścandra (Hariścandra Cāritra), presents a more complex mixture of conservative values associated with Brahmanical orthodoxy and royal power combined with the emerging devotional idiom of the Kannada-speaking region. This article pays attention to ethical complications in the Life of Hariścandra and to how the later tradition negotiated these against a clear set of inclusive, anti-Brahmanical, and anti-court ideals. With this analysis, I wish to suggest a more dynamic understanding of how Vīraśaivism positioned itself in relation to Brahmanical orthodoxy and royal power. As recent studies show, religious identities in the premodern, which today we think of using labels such as ‘Vīraśaivism’ and ‘Brahmanical orthodoxy’, were not static but rather a product of a dialectical and historically dynamic process, a process that involved refashioning and self-repositioning in relation to other emergent religious actors.3 This article reconstructs such a negotiation about social values and religious identity as it unfolded in Vīraśaiva devotional narratives.
Atypical double colorectal metastasis: spleen and uterus
Authors: Morera-Grau Álex , Patriarca-Amiano María Evangelina , Santiago-Díaz Pablo , Serrano-Munné Laia , Ielpo Benedetto , Burdío-Pinilla Fernando , Pera-Román Miguel , Espuelas-Malón Silvia , Iglesias-Coma Mar , Sánchez-Velázquez Patricia
Published: November 2021

Oligometastatic disease is a relatively new concept that refers to an intermediate stage between disseminated and localized cancer. Most frequent locations for colorectal metastasis are lung and liver. We present an a typical case of an 85-year-old woman who was diagnosed with a low-grade adenocarcinoma in left colon; she underwent a left laparoscopic hemicolectomy which resulted in a stage IIIb. After 24 months of follow-up, an increase of carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) leads to the diagnosis of two metastatic lesions in two uncommon locations: spleen and myometrium. Stepwise surgical resection of both lesions was performed without complications. Spleen and uterus are organs that are rarely affected in colorectal cancer, the affection of both organs being even more infrequent. Despite the atypicality, surgical treatment is a valid strategy in this case of oligometastatic disease, which enables the disease-free survival of the patients.
No further delays in offering booster doses in countries experiencing a major resurgence of COVID-19
Authors: Davido Benjamin , Davido Guillaume , Annane Djillali
Published: November 2021

Covid booster shots should be proposed and recommended to all fully vaccinated individuals, considering antibody levels are waning over time and that the risk of being infected typically reappears after 6 months.
Limited Introgression between Rock-Wallabies with Extensive Chromosomal Rearrangements
Authors: Potter Sally , Bragg Jason G , Turakulov Rustamzhon , Eldridge Mark D B , Deakin Janine , Kirkpatrick Mark , Edwards Richard J , Moritz Craig
Published: November 2021

Chromosome rearrangements can result in the rapid evolution of hybrid incompatibilities. Robertsonian fusions, particularly those with monobrachial homology, can drive reproductive isolation amongst recently diverged taxa. The recent radiation of rock-wallabies (genus Petrogale) is an important model to explore the role of Robertsonian fusions in speciation. Here, we pursue that goal using an extensive sampling of populations and genomes of Petrogale from north-eastern Australia. In contrast to previous assessments using mitochondrial DNA or nuclear microsatellite loci, genomic data are able to separate the most closely related species and to resolve their divergence histories. Both phylogenetic and population genetic analyses indicate introgression between two species that differ by a single Robertsonian fusion. Based on the available data, there is also evidence for introgression between two species which share complex chromosomal rearrangements. However, the remaining results show no consistent signature of introgression amongst species pairs and where evident, indicate generally low introgression overall. X-linked loci have elevated divergence compared with autosomal loci indicating a potential role for genic evolution to produce reproductive isolation in concert with chromosome change. Our results highlight the value of genome scale data in evaluating the role of Robertsonian fusions and structural variation in divergence, speciation, and patterns of molecular evolution.
Financing for Innovation in China
Authors: Chen Jin , Wang Liying
Published: November 2021

Technology and capital are two fundamental factors in economic growth; each and every technological and industrial revolution has gone hand in hand with new financial patterns since the First Industrial Revolution in Britain. As a latecomer, China is firmly committed to science and technology (S&T) innovation through innovative financial services. First, by combining fiscal and taxation policies with market capital, China has put in place its own financing system for S&T innovation. Second, fiscal and taxation policies play a fundamental and guiding role. Third, myriad innovative business models, such as “investment-lending-guarantee,” provide examples of diverse ways to support S&T activities through financial innovation. Fourth, corporate internal finance has become an important player in S&T innovation. Fifth, digital financial platforms have been playing an increasingly important role and created some new challenges. Sixth, much room is left for the capital market to play an even bigger role in S&T innovation.