bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
SISTEM PAKAR DIAGNOSA PENYAKIT PADA KUCING DENGAN METODE CERTAINTY FACTOR BERBASIS WEB
Authors: Fira Kusuma Wardana  , Bakti Lalu Darmawan , Nurwijayanti Karina
Published: July 2024

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengatasi masalah kesulitan pecinta kucing yang banyak terhalang kendala untuk mengunjungi seorang pakar hewan khususnya kucing dalam mendeteksi maupun mendiagnosa penyakit kucing nya dengan membangun sistem pakar diagnosa penyakit pada kucing dengan metode Certainty Factor berbasis web. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode penelitian Waterfall. Model pengembangan yang dilakukan meliputi tahap analisis kebutuhan, desain, pembuatan kode program, dan pengujian. Data diperoleh dari observasi dan wawancara yang dilakukan terhadap dokter di salah satu klinik hewan yang berlokasi di Perumnas Tj. Karang Permai yaitu Drh. Diah Purwitasari, M.sc. Pada tahap perancangan sistem, dilakukan dengan merancang flowchart, use case diagram, activity diagram, entity relationship diagram (ERD) dan perancangan desain interface. Pengujian sistem dilakukan dengan dua cara yaitu Blackbox Testing dan pengujian usability. Pengujian usability dilakukan dengan memberikan kuesioner penilaian aplikasi kepada 20 orang responden. Hasil pengujian usabilitas menunjukkan bahwa tingkat usablitas dari aplikasi adalah sebesar 93.2% dengan kategori sangat baik. Kelemahan dalam aplikasi ini adalah tidak ada pemilihan ras dan jenis kucing dalam proses diagnosa.
SISTEM PAKAR DIAGNOSA PENYAKIT PADA AYAM MENGGUNAKAN METODE CERTAINTY FACTOR
Authors: Pratama Rifqy Hamdani , Juhartini  , Imran Bahtiar
Published: July 2024

Ayam adalah hewan yang diternakkan baik ditingkat pengusaha besar sampai perorangan yang ada di desa-desa dan kampung-kampung. Beternak ayam bukanlah hal yang mudah karena banyak hal yang harus diperhatikan seperti penyakit yang diderita ayam. Penyakit ini jika tidak segera diberikan tindakan pengobatan maka dapat berakibat tidak baik bagi ayam dan berarti kerugian bagi peternak. Salah satu faktor yang menyebabkan kerugian adalah kurangnya pengetahuan para peternak tentang penyakit yang menyerang ayam dan bagaimana cara pengobatannya. Oleh karena itu, pada penelitian ini akan dibuat aplikasi Sistem pakar berbasis web untuk memberikan informasi mengenai penyakit dan gejala-gejala pada ayam, sekaligus memberikan solusi dan penanganannya menggunakan metode Certainty Factor. Digunakannya metode certainty factor ini untuk menggambarkan tingkat keyakinan terhadap masalah. Data yang dibutuhkan pada perancangan aplikasi sistem pakar ini adalah data penyakit, data gejala, dan data solusi cara penanganannya.
IDENTIFIKASI KEMIRIPAN FOTO ASLI DAN SKETSA MENGGUNAKAN MODEL GENERATIF ADVERSARIAL NETWORK (GANs)
Authors: Satriawan Andre , Imran Bahtiar , Erniwati Surni
Published: July 2024

Perkembangan seni semakin bertumbuh khususnya dalam bidang seni lukis, pertumbuhan tersebut terlihat dari banyaknya pemula yang mulai belajar melukis secara otodidak diawali dengan belajar membuat sketsa menggunakan metode yang beragam, tetapi masalah umum yang sering dihadapi oleh pemula dalam seni Lukis adalah seringkali sketsa dan foto asli terlihat serupa tetapi tidak tahu seberapa mirip sketsa yang telah dibuat. Penlitian ini bertujuan untuk mengidentifikasi persentase kemiripan foto asli dan sketsa menggunakan metode diskriminatif dari model Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs) memantkan library atau modul ssim. Diskriminator merupakan CNN yang menerima input gambar berukuran sama atau memiliki dimensi yang sama dan menghasilkan angka yang menyatakan apakah input merupakan gambar yang sama atau memeiliki kemiripan. Untuk mendapatkan persentase kemiripan yang tepat antara dua gambar memanfaatkan Struktural Similarity Index (SSIM) yang telah terlatih pada library scikit-image.
SISTEM INFORMASI PENDATAAN JEMAAT GEREJA KRISTEN JAWA PENARUBAN BERBASIS WEBSITE
Authors: Prayunda Vlado , Yani Widiastuti Rosalina , Lynawati
Published: July 2024

Kristen adalah salah satu agama yang di akui di Indonesia. Gereja adalah tempat berib- adah dan berkumpul umat yang beragama kristen.Tujuan dari penelitian yang dilaksanakan adalah terciptanya Sistem Informasi Pendataan Jemaat Gereja Kristen  Jawa  Penaruban yang dirancang untuk mempermudah dalam pencarian data jemaat.Metode penelitian meng- gunakan observasi dan wawancara.Pengumpulan data dengan mengamati secara langsung dan dengan cara bertanya jawab dengan tenaga gereja . Sedangkan metode pengembangan sistem menggunakan metode prototype.Hasil dari penelitian ini terciptanya sistem infor- masi pendataan jemaat gereja kristen jawa penaruban berbasis website.bahwa sistem ini da- pat memudahkan dan mempercepat proses pencarian dan pendataan jemaat serta terdapat perbedaan waktu menghitung sebelum dan sesudah menggunakan sistem.Sistem informasi ini juga memberi kemudahan administrasi dalam penyimpanan dan pengolahan data yang digunakan untuk mempermudah pelayanan gereja. Serta mempermudah dalam memberikan laporan-laporan pendataan jemaat untuk meminimalisir kesalahan serta memberikan data dengan benar.
EFFICACY OF YOGA INTERVENTION FOR THE IMPROVEMENT OF THE QUALITY OF SLEEP: A REVIEW
Authors: Joshi Niyanta , Paul Biman
Published: July 2024

Sleep is an essential part of life as essential as diet. Good sleep is a representation of better emotional well-being, cognitive function and physical as well as mental health. In children and teenagers sleep is an essential factor for developing healthy development and overall growth. Sleep also influences the cardiovascular system, digestion, breathing system and immunological system. Insufficient sleep might increase the vulnerability to chronic health issues over time such as heart attack and brain stroke. The goal of one of the most spiritual practices such as yoga is to achieve a state of complete physical and mental equilibrium via the application of an exceedingly subtle science. With its origins in Indian philosophy, yoga is both a modern and traditional discipline to achieve physical, mental as well as spiritual health. Some practical aspects of yoga have shown a significant role in dealing with sleep disorders and improving the quality of sleep. By controlling breath yoga may help to reduce fluctuation of mind tenancies of overthinking and provide sound sleep. This review article emphasises the efficacy of yoga intervention for improving sleep quality.
Shelter Yayasan Masyarakat Peduli Tuberkulosis (YAMALI TB) sebagai Pusat Pendampingan Psikososial Pasien TB di Makassar
Authors: Nurafifah Nabila , Kasmuddin Khadijah Faqih , Khumas Asniar , Parmasari Damairia Hayu
Published: July 2024

Dampak psikologis yang diderita oleh pasien tuberkulosis (TB) di Makassar sangat berpengaruh pada proses penyembuhan. Maka dari itu, selain  memerlukan pengobatan yang intensif, mereka juga membutuhkan dukungan dari lingkungan sekitar untuk bisa sembuh dan melawan penyakit TB. Pembentukan pusat pendampingan psikososial bagi pasien TB di Makassar bertujuan untuk membantu para pasien mengatasi dampak-dampak psikologis yang mereka alami selama proses pengobatan. Rangkaian kegiatan dalam proses pembentukan pusat pendampingan psikososial meliputi pemberian materi pendampingan psikososial kepada kader, pembuatan pusat pendampingan psikososial berbasis shelter, penyusunan buku panduan pendampingan psikososial, dan penyusunan buku panduan pengembangan shelter. Tersedianya pusat pendampingan psikososial dapat memudahkan pasien dalam mengatasi dampak psikologis yang mereka alami. Selain itu, tersedianya buku panduan pendampingan psikososial juga dapat memudahkan para kader dalam memberi pendampingan secara psikis kepada para pasien.
Perawatan Peralatan Bongkar Muat Guna Kelancaran Proses Kegiatan Bongkar Muat pada MV. Sirimau
Authors: Oktavia Fira , Erlinda Nelfi , Arfian Naf'an , Silen Adhi Pratistha
Published: July 2024

Alat bongkar muat crane adalah Alat yang berfungsi dalam proses bongkar muat dari palka kapal, kemudian dipindahkan ke dermaga. Masalah yang sering ditemui di atas kapal sehubungan dengan proses bongkar muat adalah kurangnya perawatan crane pada alat bongar muat pada kapal. Seperti yang terjadi pada MV. Sirimau dimana kurangnya aktifitas perawatan yang mengakibatkan aktifitas proses bongkar muat terganggu. Sehinggga tujuan yang ingin dicapai pada penelitian ini yaitu untuk mengetahui bagaimana perawatan serta faktor penghambat dari perawatan peralatan bongkar muat pada MV. Sirimau. Jenis Penelitian yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah jenis penelitian deskriptif kualitatif, adapun data yang digunakan adalah data primer yang diperoleh secara langsung melalui wawancara dan observasi sedangkan data sekunder diperoleh dari dokumen-dokumen kapal ataupun standard operating procedure (SOP) perusahaan terkait yang berada di atas kapal. Penelitian ini juga dibuat dengan teknik pengumpulan data seperti teknik observasi, wawancara, dan dokumentasi.
Analisis Terjadinya Penurunan Tekanan Minyak Lumas pada Mesin Induk di MT Pribumi
Authors: Riadi Ikhsan Slamet , Erlinda Nelfi , Arfian Naf'an , Sunanto Hari
Published: July 2024

Perkembangan ilmu pengetahuan dan teknologi dari sarana angkutan laut sangat dibutuhkan. Kapal laut merupakan salah satu sarana angkutan laut yang ekonomis, karena volume untuk memuat barang yang diangkut lebih besar. Sistem pelumasan pada mesin induk merupakan salah satu sistem yang mempunyai peranan penting pada saat mesin induk beroperasi untuk menjaga kondisi dan bagian-bagian mesin yang bergerak yang memerlukan pelumasan secara maksimal. Tujuan penelitian untuk mengetahui penyebab menurunnya tekanan minyak lumas pada mesin induk, Penelitian ini menggunakan metode pendekatan deskriptif kualitatif. Metode pengumpulan data menggunakan metode observasi, metode wawancara dan metode dokumentasi. Berdasarkan hasil kerja yang diperoleh dari penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa tidak bekerjanya pompa secara maksimal dan tersumbatnya saringan minyak lumas yang mengakibatkan menurunnya tekanan minyak lumas. Turunnya tekanan minyak pelumas pada kapal berpengaruh besar pada kerja mesin induk.
Does Upper Arm Length, Arm Span, and Foot Length Serve as Good Predictors for Stature? A Cross-Sectional Study among Northern Nigerians
Authors: Oghenemavwe Loveday Ese , Fawehinmi Hakeem Babatunde , Okoh Peter Done , David Lekpa Kingdom , Amadi Michael Anozie , Oparaocha Chile A. , Ebieto Celestine Ebieto , Nwofor Priscilla Nkechinyere , Asiwe Nicholas
Published: July 2024

Background: Stature estimation is an important identification process in the field of physical and forensic anthropology and for industrial design. The study aims to determine if upper arm length, foot length, and arm span could be good predictors for stature among northern Nigerians.
Methods: The study adopted a descriptive cross-sectional design using a multi-stage random sampling technique. 400 northern Nigerians (200 males and 200 females) were involved in the research and data were collected via direct anthropometric method using a stadiometer, and meter rule. The data obtained were analyzed using the IBM SPSS and probability was stated (p<0.05).
Results: The findings of the study show that males have a mean value for the standing height, upper arm length, foot length, and arm span as 171.97±6.68 cm, 32.62±2.55 cm, 25.76±1.17 cm, 181.72±7.83 cm respectively, and females were 163.33±5.96 cm, 35.23±2.19 cm, 23.04±1.51 cm, and 168.67±6.68 cm for standing height, upper arm length, foot length, and arm span which has shown sexual differences and age-related differences (p<0.05). The upper arm was found to be a weak predictor for stature (R=0.045, SEE=7.66), foot length and arm span were good predictors of stature (R=0.73, SEE=5.24 and R=0.83, SEE=4.25) univariately. Multivariate analysis of the upper arm length, foot length, and arm span were better predictors for stature (R=0.85, SEE=4.07). 
Conclusion: The foot length and arm span are good predictors of stature and the findings will be useful to forensic anthropologists
Exploration of Antioxidant, Antibacterial, and Alpha-glucosidase Inhibition Potential of Cirsium verutum (D. Don) Spreng Extracts: In vitro and in silico Approach
Authors: Poudel Manila , Parajuli Nirmal , Khanal Sabin , Gosain Bindira , Shakhakarmi Kanchan , Bharati Samjhana , Maharjan Binita , Shrestha Timila , Subin Jhashanath Adhikari , Shrestha Ram Lal (Swagat) , Marasini Bishnu Prasad
Published: July 2024

Certain medicinal plants have been used to address common infectious as well as non-infectious diseases. Diabetes mellitus poses a major global health challenge, leading to significant mortality and morbidity each year. Finding side-effect-free treatments for diabetes has always been difficult. Bacterial resistance is recognized as a significant medical concern, highlighting the need to identify new compounds that could serve as potential starting points for addressing or managing infectious diseases. The study focused on the phytochemical extraction of Cirsium verutum (D. Don) Spreng, evaluating its bioactivity and identifying potential molecules through molecular docking that could act as starting compounds for creating alternative drugs to address specific health issues. The aqueous extract demonstrated superior performance, displaying the highest phenolic content and exhibiting notable inhibitory effects on the alpha-glucosidase enzyme (31.39±0.02 mg GAE/gm and 70.46% inhibition with an IC50 value of 37.37±1.46 µg/mL, respectively). The free radical scavenging activity using DPPH indicated the maximum activity in the hexane extracts an IC50 of 442.17±0.42 µg/mL. The extracts of C. verutum demonstrated minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values ranging from 0.78 to 12.5 mg/mL and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) values ranging from 3.12 to 25 mg/mL in the antibacterial assay. The fully characterized compounds from C. verutum were searched from various papers, followed by their molecular docking. In the molecular docking study, it was discovered that among the seven top candidates, pectolinarin (01) was identified as the most promising candidate, exhibiting a docking score of -11.076 kcal/mol against intestinal alpha-glucosidase. This integrated study approach will aid in the discovery of new antibiotics and the management of diabetes.
Economic Analysis of Pea Farming in High Hills of Himachal Pradesh, India
Authors: Samriti  , Pathania Ankit , Sharma Subhash , Nikita  , Thakur Sakshi , Bhanwal Udit
Published: July 2024

Pea cultivation is an important agricultural activity in the region, contributing significantly to the local economy and providing livelihood opportunities for farmers. The study examines the cost and returns analysis associated with pea cultivation in the high hills of the state. Simple random sampling has been used for the selection of respondents to collect the primary data. The study stated that the total cost (C3) incurred for the cultivation of pea was Rs 107123.15 per hectare. However, it was found highest in marginal farms (Rs 115210.12/ha) and lowest in medium farms (Rs 91297.73/ha). Furthermore, net income was worked out to be Rs 277918.34 per hectare. The output- input ratio implied that each rupee spent would yield a profit of Rs 2.59 for pea in the study area. Hence, the findings of the study contribute to a better understanding of the economic viability of pea cultivation and can guide efforts towards improving the efficiency and profitability of this agricultural practice in the high hills of Himachal Pradesh.
Evaluation of Repellent Activity of Oils Obtained from the Seeds of Azadirachta indica and Jatropha curcas on the Insect Pest- Aphis craccivora Found in Cowpea
Authors: P. O. Ukatu, , F. A. Nwagwu, , V. T. Ebu, , E. I. Ogban, , S. B. A. Umoetok,
Published: July 2024

Aphis craccivora is one of the major pest of Vigna unguiculata due to its nature of damage caused to this crop. It feeds on all parts of the plant, mostly at the tender stage of the crop. Bioassay was conducted and repeated ten times using live insects, botanicals and an olfactometer which contained the test compound in one arm and the remaining 3 arms served as a control in a four-armed olfactometer in order to determine its effectiveness as a repellent. The treatment odour source contained either 10µL Azadirachta indica or Jatropha curcas oil while the control arms contained no oil and there were tested against adult A. craccivora. The data obtained included the time spent by A. craccivora in the different arms of the olfactometer and the number of visits to each arm. Each of the data was analyzed using paired t-test. Aphis craccivora spent significantly less time in the arm of the olfactometer that contains J. curcas oil (0.11min) than the arms that did not contain the oil (4.06 min). Similarly, A. craccivora spent significantly more time in the arms of the olfactometer that were not treated with oil (4.23 min) than the arm treated with A. indica oil (0.51 min). Also, the number of entries made into the arms treated with J. curcas (0.10 min) and A. indica (0.40 min) were significantly less than the number of entries made by A. craccivora into their respective arms without J. curcas (1.87 min) and A. indica (2.33 min). The results indicated that both oils significantly repelled A. craccivora as less time was spent in the plant oil-treated arms. Similarly, more visits were made by A. craccivora to the control arms. This showed the efficacy of both oil extracts as a repellent to A. craccivora.
Physiological Performance of Different Rice Hybrids under Agroclimatic Conditions of Uttar Pradesh
Authors: Kumar K. Yatheesh , Singh Vikram
Published: July 2024

A field in the kharif season of 2021, a field experiment was conducted at Sam higginbottom University of Agricultural Technology And Sciences, Prayagraj, with the purpose of evaluating ten rice hybrids (UR-26, UR-27, UR-28, UR-29, UR-30, UR-31, UR-32, UR-33, UR-34, and UR-35) under Uttar Pradesh's agro-climatic conditions. The study aimed to assess their growth, productivity, and grain quality attributes.  The experiment addressed a gap in knowledge regarding which rice hybrids perform best in the specific agro-climatic conditions. By comparing these hybrids, the study sought to provide insights into selecting the most suitable varieties for maximizing agricultural productivity in the region. Among the hybrids evaluated, UR-32 demonstrated exceptional performance and exhibited superior grain quality characteristics including better hulling, milling, and head rice recovery rates. These results highlight UR-32 as a promising choice for farmers in Uttar Pradesh seeking to optimize both yield and grain quality during the kharif season.  In conclusion, the study not only filled a research gap by identifying the top-performing rice hybrid under Uttar Pradesh's agro-climatic conditions but also provided valuable data for enhancing agricultural practices and crop selection strategies in the region
Effect of Microbial Consortiums on Germination and Initial Growth Attributes of Mangosteen
Authors: B. N. Rajendra , Bhaskar Jyothi , K. Surendra Gopal , Krishnan Anu G. , G. Krishna Kumar , K. Rajalekshmi
Published: July 2024

An experiment was conducted to study the influence of microbial consortiums / biofertilizers on germination and initial growth attributes of mangosteen grown in the College Orchard, Department of Fruit Science, College of Agriculture, Kerala Agricutural University, Vellanikkara, Thrissur, Kerala, India during 2023. The research work was conducted under rain shelter with five treatments, which include microbial consortiums / biofertilizers such as PGPR MIX-1 (T1), Piriformospora indica (T2), PGPR MIX-1 + Piriformospora indica (T3), Arka Microbial Consortia (AMC) (T4) and control (T5). The various parameters of germination and initial growth attributes of mangosteen seedlings were recorded viz., time taken for germination, germination percentage, height of seedlings, girth of seedlings, number of leaves, length of leaves, breadth of leaves, length of roots, girth of roots, chlorophyll content, carotenoid content, seedling fresh weight and dry weight. Among the treatments, PGPR MIX-1 + Piriformospora indica (T3) recorded significantly higher values for majority of the parameters under study over control (T5), and Piriformospora indica (T2), but it (T3) was found to be on par with Arka Microbial Consortia (AMC) (T4) and PGPR MIX-1 (T1). The recorded values were lowest under control (T5). The seeds of mangosteen treated with PGPR MIX-1 + Piriformospora indica or Arka Microbial Consortia alone or PGPR MIX-1 alone @ 100 g per kg of seeds were found to be the best in overall performance of the seedlings for various growth parameters under study.
Enhancing Non-Profit Project Outcomes through Predictive Modelling and Real-Time Data Analysis
Authors: Jikiemi Elizabeth
Published: July 2024

Aims: To discuss the applications of predictive modelling and real-time data analysis to non-profit project outcomes. The procedures and relevant algorithms are to be examined together with relevant case studies. Future research gaps that should be bridged are also discussed.
Problem Statement: Numerous advantages attached to project outcomes have been identified. However, there are series of steps and procedures that are supposed to be taken which are limited with the application of computer programs to enhance their effectiveness. 
Significance of Study: The use of advanced predictive modeling and real-time data analysis are required to enhance non-profit project outcomes which entails using data analysis techniques and sophisticated algorithms. The use of these advanced techniques can lead to better resource allocation, improved decision-making, and enhanced overall project success rates in the non-profit sector.
Methodology: The method used in writing this review involved consultation of recent literatures in the area of non-profit project outcomes and applications of predictive modelling and real-time data analysis.
Discussion: The use of predictive modeling techniques in project outcomes is necessary in order to improve their efficiencies. The article addresses different predictive modeling approaches, such as decision trees and statistical models, and how to use them to improve project results in the fields of health and education. Predictive real-time data analytics models and models for designing predictive analytics algorithms in enhancing non-profit project outcomes were discussed to include statistical models, linear regression models, multiple regression models, multivariate regression model and decision tree. Health and education were used as case studies of predictive modelling and real-time data analysis application in non-profit project outcomes. This literature review article revealed some gaps that are needed to be bridged in order to improve the efficiency of predictive modelling and real-time data analysis an enhancers to non-profit project outcomes.
Conclusion: Predictive real-time data analytics and algorithms are crucial instruments for improving the results of non-profit projects. When used in case studies, they exhibited notable outcomes.
Economic Development: A Study of the Holistic Examination of Sustainable Agriculture's Substantial Impact on Developing Nations
Authors: Sehgal Shallu , Batool Insha
Published: July 2024

The study explores the significant influence of sustainable agriculture on the socioeconomic structure of developing nations. It highlights how sustainable agriculture stimulates economic expansion by developing new avenues for income generation and entrepreneurship, in addition to boosting productivity and resource efficiency. By means of market integration, value chain development, and sustainable financing mechanisms, avenues are opened for small farmers to gain entry into profitable markets, thereby enhancing their economic position. The present study provides a sophisticated comprehension of how sustainable agriculture goes beyond the simple preservation of the environment and acts as a driver for comprehensive development. Through the mitigation of social inequalities and economic disparities, sustainable agriculture possesses the capacity to unleash the complete potential of developing nations, thereby establishing a pathway towards a prosperous and resilient future. It uses a comprehensive methodology, consulting databases like Google Scholar, FAO, The World Bank, ICRAF, Research Gate, and WRI, to explore literature on sustainable agriculture's economic impact in developing nations. The research aims to provide insights into how sustainable practices can foster economic prosperity and sustainable development. The findings of the study explain how sustainable agricultural practices in India improve rural livelihoods, conserve natural resources, enhance food security, reduce health risk, and promote long-term sustainability. By adopting organic farming and agroforestry, farmers can reduce dependency on chemical inputs, improve income, and contribute to poverty reduction.
Smartphones: Powerful Tools for Geoscience Education
Authors: Johnson Zackary I. , Johnston David W.
Published: November 2013

Observation, formation of explanatory hypotheses, and testing of ideas together form the basic pillars of much science. Consequently, science education has often focused on the presentation of facts and theories to teach concepts. To a great degree, libraries and universities have been the historical repositories of scientific information, often restricting access to a small segment of society and severely limiting broad‐scale geoscience education.
Optimizing the Water‐Energy‐Food Nexus in the Asia‐Pacific Ring of Fire
Authors: Taniguchi Makoto , Allen Diana , Gurdak Jason
Published: November 2013

Climate change and economic development are causing increased pressure on global water, energy, and food resources, presenting increased levels of trade‐offs and conflicts among these resources and stakeholders. Because these resources are interconnected, policy development and resource management require careful consideration of the complex interconnections between nature and society. A balance between risk and resilience is critical for achieving human and environmental security, particularly in Asia's region within the “Ring of Fire,” which is experiencing drastic social change alongside the huge potential risks and benefits associated with development. The 2011 Fukushima nuclear accident and aftermath underscore the importance of developing policy and management options that maximize security and minimize risk within the water‐energy‐food (WEF) nexus.
Seismic images of magmatic rifting beneath the western branch of the East African rift
Authors: Jakovlev Andrey , Rümpker Georg , Schmeling Harro , Koulakov Ivan , Lindenfeld Michael , Wallner Herbert
Published: November 2013

We have performed a tomographic study using a joint data set that includes local and teleseismic events, recorded by a temporary network in the western branch of the East African rift system. From the travel time residuals, we derive a three‐dimensional model of seismic P‐wave velocity anomalies for the crust and upper mantle down to a depth of 80 km. Particular attention is paid to the verification of the inversion results by various resolution tests. The results show that the eastern rift shoulder is characterized by relatively high seismic velocities. Lower velocities are obtained beneath the entire length of the rift valley and the Rwenzori Mountains. A prominent feature is observed north‐east of the mountain range: here we detected a vertically oriented, cylindrical low‐velocity anomaly with maximum amplitudes in the middle crust and the upper mantle lithosphere. We suggest that this anomaly indicates reservoirs of molten material related to the ongoing rifting process within this segment of the rift. Just above this anomaly, at depths between 5 and 16 km, earthquake swarms exist. The observed reduction in P‐wave velocity is used to provide constraints on the possible melt content and temperature anomaly in the uppermost mantle. The observed 3–5% P‐velocity decrease can be explained by melt fraction up to 2%–3.3% or alternatively by a temperature increase of at least 248 to 376 K and even higher‐temperature anomalies are possible if lower ambient temperatures in the reference mantle are assumed. Probably, the two effects act in combination.
Improved seasonal forecast using ozone hole variability?
Authors: Son Seok‐Woo , Purich Ariaan , Hendon Harry H. , Kim Baek‐Min , Polvani Lorenzo M.
Published: November 2013

Southern Hemisphere (SH) climate change has been partly attributed to Antarctic ozone depletion in the literatures. Here we show that the ozone hole has affected not only the long‐term climate change but also the interannual variability of SH surface climate. A significant negative correlation is observed between September ozone concentration and the October southern annular mode index, resulting in systematic variations in precipitation and surface air temperature throughout the SH. This time‐lagged relationship is comparable to and independent of that associated with El Niño‐Southern Oscillation and the Indian Ocean Dipole Mode, suggesting that SH seasonal forecasts could be improved by considering Antarctic stratospheric variability.
A global approach to provide magnitude estimates for earthquake early warning alerts
Authors: Kuyuk Huseyin Serdar , Allen Richard M.
Published: November 2013

We examine five different methods to estimate an earthquake's magnitude using only P wave data for use in earthquake early warning systems. We test two input parameters: the maximum predominant period of the P wave (τpmax) and the displacement amplitude of the P wave's vertical component (Pd). We apply our algorithms to 174 earthquakes 3.0 < M < 8.0 from California and Japan that have also been used in previous calibration studies. We also apply them to 1992 0.2 < M < 5.7 earthquakes that were processed by the real‐time Earthquake Alarm Systems in California. We find that τpmax does not scale with magnitude for small earthquakes (M < 3) and is less accurate for large‐magnitude earthquakes than using Pd alone. We derive a global scaling relation between Pd and magnitude and conclude that this global relationship provides the most accurate and robust magnitude estimate. This relationship could be applied in earthquake source zones around the world.
Cost‐Utility Analysis of a Multidisciplinary Strategy to Manage Osteoarthritis of the Knee: Economic Evaluation of a Cluster Randomized Controlled Trial Study
Authors: Marra Carlo A. , Grubisic Maja , Cibere Jolanda , Grindrod Kelly A. , Woolcott John C. , Gastonguay Louise , Esdaile John M.
Published: November 2013

Objective

To determine if a pharmacist‐initiated multidisciplinary strategy provides value for money compared to usual care in participants with previously undiagnosed knee osteoarthritis.

Methods

Pharmacies were randomly allocated to provide either 1) usual care and a pamphlet or 2) intervention care, which consisted of education, pain medication management by a pharmacist, physiotherapy‐guided exercise, and communication with the primary care physician. Costs and quality‐adjusted life‐years (QALYs) were determined for patients assigned to each treatment and incremental cost‐effectiveness ratios (ICERs) were determined.

Results

From the Ministry of Health perspective, the average patient in the intervention group generated slightly higher costs compared with usual care. Similar findings were obtained when using the societal perspective. The intervention resulted in ICERs of $232 (95% confidence interval [95% CI] −1,530, 2,154) per QALY gained from the Ministry of Health perspective and $14,395 (95% CI 7,826, 23,132) per QALY gained from the societal perspective, compared with usual care.

Conclusion

A pharmacist‐initiated, multidisciplinary program was good value for money from both the societal and Ministry of Health perspectives.
Time Trends in the Characteristics of Patients Undergoing Primary Total Knee Arthroplasty
Authors: Singh Jasvinder A. , Lewallen David G.
Published: November 2013

Objective

To study the time trends in sociodemographic and clinical characteristics of patients undergoing primary total knee arthroplasty (TKA).

Methods

We used the Mayo Clinic Total Joint Registry to examine the time trends in patient demographics (body mass index [BMI] and age), underlying diagnosis, medical (Deyo‐Charlson Index) and psychological comorbidity (anxiety and depression), and examination findings of primary TKA patients from 1993–2005. We used the chi‐square test and analysis of variance.

Results

In total, 7,229 patients constituted the primary TKA cohort; 55% were women. The mean age decreased by 1.3 years (69.3 to 68.0 years), mean BMI increased by 1.7 kg/m2 (30.1 to 31.8 kg/m2), and mean Deyo‐Charlson Index increased by 36% (1.1 to 1.5) over the 13‐year study period (P ≤ 0.001 for all). Compared with 1993–1995, significantly more patients (by 2–3 times) in 2002–2005 had a BMI ≥40 kg/m2 (4.8% versus 10.6%), age <50 years (2.9% versus 5.2%), Deyo‐Charlson Index of ≥3 (12% versus 22.3%), depression (4.1% versus 14.8%), and anxiety (4.1% versus 8.9%), and significantly fewer patients had an underlying diagnosis of rheumatoid/inflammatory arthritis (6.4% versus 1.5%; P < 0.001 for all). Compared with 1993–1995, significant reductions were noted in 2002–2005 for the physical examination findings of anteroposterior knee instability, mediolateral knee instability, moderate to severe knee synovitis, severe limp, fair or poor muscle strength, and absent peripheral pulses (P ≤ 0.001 for all).

Conclusion

In this large US total joint registry study, we found significant time trends in patient characteristics, diagnosis, comorbidity, and knee/extremity examination findings in primary TKA patients over 13 years. These secular trends should be taken into account when comparing outcomes over time and in policy‐making decisions.
Ultrahigh Infrared Photoresponse from Core–Shell Single‐Domain‐VO2/V2O5 Heterostructure in Nanobeam
Authors: Li Zejun , Hu Zhenpeng , Peng Jing , Wu Changzheng , Yang Yuchen , Feng Feng , Gao Peng , Yang Jinlong , Xie Yi
Published: November 2013

Infrared (IR) harvesting and detection in red and near‐IR (NIR) part of the solar spectrum have always been a long‐term research area of intense interest. However, limited choices of current photoactive materials have significantly hampered the realization of ultrahigh IR sensitivity under room temperature conditions. The trigger for this requires the exploration of new photo­active materials and the ability to fabricate new photoactive structural design. Herein, a new oxide‐catalogue photoconductive NIR detector with ultrahigh performance built by core/shell nanobeam heterostructures (CSNHs) with the inner single‐domain monoclinic VO2 (M) core and outer V2O5 shell, which is the first example of photoconductive IR detector made from transition metal oxides (TMOs), is presented. Benefited from the well‐defined TMO hetero­junction interface, the ultrahigh responsivity (Rλ) of 2873.7 A W‐1 and specific detectivity (D*) of 9.23 × 1012 Jones are achieved at room temperature (at 990 nm; 0.2 mW cm‐2), recording the best performance compared with those reported IR detectors based on heavy‐metal‐free materials, and even comparable/superior to those traditional ones made from materials including heavy metals. These findings pave a new way to design oxide heterostructures for intriguing applications in optoelectronic and energy harvesting nanodevices.
Self‐Assembled Plasmonic Oligomers for Organic Photovoltaics
Authors: Pastorelli Francesco , Bidault Sebastien , Martorell Jordi , Bonod Nicolas
Published: November 2013

Introducing plasmonic resonant scatterers in photovoltaic devices is a promising way to increase energy conversion efficiencies by trapping incoming light in ultra‐thin solar cells. Colloidal plasmonic oligomers are obtained following a cost‐effective self‐assembly strategy and incorporated in organic‐based cells produced using spin‐coating techniques in ambient air conditions. An interesting increase is observed of both external quantum efficiency (EQE) and short‐circuit current for solar cells loaded with plasmonic oligomers compared with reference organic cells with and without isolated gold nanoparticles. Theoretical calculations demonstrate that the wavelength‐dependent EQE enhancement is a resonant process due to the increased scattering efficiency in plasmonic antennas allowed by a chemically controlled 1 nm nanogap. This method opens the way towards roll‐to‐roll fabrication of efficient plasmonic ultra‐thin photovoltaic devices.
Improving Structural Order for a High‐Performance Diketopyrrolopyrrole‐Based Polymer Solar Cell with a Thick Active Layer
Authors: Gao Jing , Dou Letian , Chen Wei , Chen Chun‐Chao , Guo Xuanrong , You Jingbi , Bob Brion , Chang Wei‐Hsuan , Strzalka Joseph , Wang Cheng , Li Gang , Yang Yang
Published: November 2013

A series of low‐bandgap polymers based on thienyl benzodithiophene (BDTT) and furan‐substituted diketopyrrolopyrrole (FDPP) units with different side chains are presented. By replacing the branched ethylhexyl group on the FDPP unit with linear side chains, the structural order and carrier mobility of the modified polymers are enhanced accordingly. The power conversion efficiencies (PCE) of single‐junction devices based on polymers of this series are improved from ≈5% to ≈7%. More importantly, devices made from the modified polymers show excellent photovoltaic performance with a thick active layer of up to 360 nm, a very promising characteristic for the industrial implementation of polymer solar cell devices.
Benign Solutions and Innovative Sequential Annealing Processes for High Performance Cu2ZnSn(Se,S)4 Photovoltaics
Authors: Hsu Chia‐Jung , Duan Hsin‐Sheng , Yang Wenbing , Zhou Huanping , Yang Yang
Published: November 2013

Solution‐based earth‐abundant Cu2ZnSn(Se,S)4 (CZTSSe) is proven to be a promising tool for thin‐film photovoltaic fabrication. Combining fully dissolved copper (Cu) and zinc/tin (Zn/Sn) hydrazinium constituents in an ethanolamine (EA) and dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO) solution mixture forms the CZTS precursor. All solutes in the precursor solution are intermixed on the molecular scale with excellent homogeneity. Sequential annealing steps under chalcogen vapor allow for enhanced grain growth while preventing the back contact from forming an excessively thick Mo(S,Se)2 layer. The resulting devices achieve power conversion efficiencies of 7.5% under 1 sun conditions.
Enhancement of the Photoresponse in Organic Field‐Effect Transistors by Incorporating Thin DNA Layers
Authors: Zhang Yuan , Wang Mingfeng , Collins Samuel D. , Zhou Huiqiong , Phan Hung , Proctor Christopher , Mikhailovsky Alexander , Wudl Fred , Nguyen Thuc‐Quyen
Published: November 2013

A mechanistic study of the DNA interfacial layer that enhances the photoresponse in n‐type field‐effect transistors (FET) and lateral photoconductors using a solution‐processed fullerene derivative embedded with disperse‐red dye, namely PCBDR, is reported. Incorporation of the thin DNA layer simultaneously leads to increasing the electron injection from non‐Ohmic contacts into the PCBDR active layer in dark and to increasing the photocurrent under irradiation. Such features lead to the observation of the enhancement of the photoresponsivity in PCBDR FETs up to 103. Kelvin probe microscopy displays that in the presence of the DNA layer, the surface potential of PCBDR has a greater change in response to irradiation, which is rationalized by a larger number of photoinduced surface carriers. Transient absorption spectroscopy confirms that the increase in photoinduced carriers in PCBDR under irradiation is primarily ascribed to the increase in exciton dissociation rates through the PCBDR/DNA interface and this process can be assisted by the interfacial dipole interaction.
Partial replacement of EPDM by GTR in thermoplastic elastomers based on PP/EPDM: Effects on morphology and mechanical properties
Authors: Lima Paulo , Oliveira José , Costa Vitor
Published: November 2013

The formulation of recycled thermoplastic elastomeric materials (TPE) based on ground tyre rubber (GTR), generated from end of life tyres, can be an alternative strategy to deal with a type of waste responsible for increasingly environmental problems over the past decades. The incompatibility of GTR with thermoplastics places several issues on the formulation of these materials, which this study tries to overcome. An encapsulation strategy of the GTR by an elastomeric phase is proposed in this work to overcome the lack of adhesion between the materials. Ternary blends, composed of a highly flowable polypropylene homopolymer, an ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) and GTR were formulated and their morphology and mechanical properties analyzed. The morphology of the blends showed interaction between the materials, revealing that the encapsulation of GTR by a rubber phase can be an adequate strategy to formulate recycled‐based TPE materials, if the dimension of the GTR particles is controlled and taken into consideration. The mechanical properties revealed the replacement effect of EPDM by GTR, and its dependence on the amount of that replacement. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 40160.
Cooperation of Factor VII–Activating Protease and Serum DNase I in the Release of Nucleosomes From Necrotic Cells
Authors: Stephan Femke , Marsman Gerben , Bakker Liza M. , Bulder Ingrid , Stavenuiter Fabian , Aarden Lucien A. , Zeerleder Sacha
Published: November 2013

Objective

Removal of dead cells is essential in the maintenance of tissue homeostasis, and efficient removal prevents exposure of intracellular content to the immune system, which could lead to autoimmunity. The plasma protease factor VII–activating protease (FSAP) can release nucleosomes from late apoptotic cells. FSAP circulates as an inactive single‐chain protein, which is activated upon contact with either apoptotic cells or necrotic cells. The purpose of this study was to investigate the role of FSAP in the release of nucleosomes from necrotic cells.

Methods

Necrotic Jurkat cells were incubated with serum, purified 2‐chain FSAP, and/or DNase I. Nucleosome release was analyzed by flow cytometry, and agarose gel electrophoresis was performed to detect DNA breakdown.

Results

Incubation with serum released nucleosomes from necrotic cells. Incubation with FSAP‐deficient serum or serum in which FSAP was inhibited by a blocking antibody was unable to release nucleosomes from necrotic cells, confirming that FSAP is indeed the essential serum factor in this process. Together with serum DNase I, FSAP induced the release of DNA from the cells, the appearance of nucleosomes in the supernatant, and the fragmentation of chromatin into eventually mononucleosomes.

Conclusion

FSAP and DNase I are the essential serum factors that cooperate in necrotic cell DNA degradation and nucleosome release. We propose that this mechanism may be important in the removal of potential autoantigens.
Involvement of Peripheral and Spinal Tumor Necrosis Factor α in Spinal Cord Hyperexcitability During Knee Joint Inflammation in Rats
Authors: König Christian , Zharsky Maxim , Möller Christian , Schaible Hans‐Georg , Ebersberger Andrea
Published: November 2013

Objective

Tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα) is produced not only in peripheral tissues, but also in the spinal cord. The purpose of this study was to address the potential of peripheral and spinal TNFα to induce and maintain spinal hyperexcitability, which is a hallmark of pain states in the joints during rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.

Methods

In vivo recordings of the responses of spinal cord neurons to nociceptive knee input under normal conditions and in the presence of experimental knee joint inflammation were obtained in anesthetized rats. TNFα, etanercept, or antibodies to TNF receptors were applied to either the knee joint or the spinal cord surface.

Results

Injection of TNFα into the knee joint cavity increased the responses of spinal cord neurons to mechanical joint stimulation, and injection of etanercept into the knee joint reduced the inflammation‐evoked spinal activity. These spinal effects closely mirrored the induction and reduction of peripheral sensitization. Responses to joint stimulation were also enhanced by spinal application of TNFα, and spinal application of either etanercept or anti–TNF receptor type I significantly attenuated the generation of inflammation‐evoked spinal hyperexcitability, which is characterized by widespread pain sensitization beyond the inflamed joint. Spinally applied etanercept did not reduce established hyperexcitability in the acute kaolin/carrageenan model. In antigen‐induced arthritis, etanercept decreased spinal responses on day 1, but not on day 3.

Conclusion

While peripheral TNFα increases spinal responses to joint stimulation, spinal TNFα supports the generation of the full pattern of spinal hyperexcitability. However, established spinal hyperexcitability may be maintained by downstream mechanisms that are independent of spinal TNFα.
Inspiration from Old Dyes: Tris(stilbene) Compounds as Potent Gram‐Positive Antibacterial Agents
Authors: Boulos Ramiz A. , Man Nikki Y. T. , Lengkeek Nigel A. , Hammer Katherine A. , Foster Niki F. , Stemberger Natalie A. , Skelton Brian W. , Wong Pan Yu , Martinac Boris , Riley Thomas V. , McKinley Allan J. , Stewart Scott G.
Published: November 2013

Herein we describe the preparation and structure‐activity relationship studies on range of stilbene based compounds and their antibacterial activity. Two related compounds, each bearing carboxylic acid moieties, exhibit good activity against several bacterial strains, including methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus MRSA (ATCC 33592 and NCTC 10442). Compound 10 was most active against Moraxella catarrhalis with minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of 0.12–0.25 μg mL−1 and against Staphylococcus spp. with MICs ranging from 2–4 μg mL−1. The derivative 17 showed increased activity with MICs of 0.06–0.25 μg mL−1 against M. catarrhalis and 0.12–1 against Staphylococcus spp. This level of activity is similar to that reported for S. aureus for antibiotics, such as vancomycin, with MICs of ≤2.0 μg mL−1 and clindamycin with MICs of ≤0.5 μg mL−1. As an indicator of toxicity, 17 was tested for its ability to lyse sheep erythrocytes, and showed low haemolytic activity. Such results highlight the value of tris(stilbene) compounds as antibacterial agents providing suitable properties for further development.
The effects of bortezomib on bone disease in patients with multiple myeloma
Authors: Mohty Mohamad , Malard Florent , Mohty Bilal , Savani Bipin , Moreau Philippe , Terpos Evangelos
Published: November 2013

Bortezomib has demonstrated substantial activity in the treatment of patients with multiple myeloma and is widely incorporated into treatment strategies across the different settings. It is interesting to note that data are accumulating to suggest that the activity of bortezomib extends beyond the tumor cell and microenvironment to encompass effects on bone metabolism. Indeed, data from both the preclinical and clinical settings have suggested that bortezomib directly stimulates osteoblast growth and differentiation, while also inhibiting osteoclast development and activity. Notably, in the clinical setting, the bone anabolic effects of bortezomib could be demonstrated by the healing of lytic lesions as noted in some patients. These results are of importance because bone disease is a hallmark of myeloma and therefore any agent that combines antimyeloma activity with positive effects on bone is of substantial interest. However, further studies are needed to establish how the agent should be used for the treatment of patients with bone disease. Cancer 2014;120:618–623. © 2013 American Cancer Society.