bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rules essential for water molecular undercoordination*
Authors: Sun Chang Q
Published: April 2020

A sequential of concepts developed in the last decade has enabled a resolution to multiple anomalies of water ice and its low-dimensionality, particularly. Developed concepts include the coupled hydrogen bond (O:H–O) oscillator pair, segmental specific heat, three-body coupling potentials, quasisolidity, and supersolidity. Resolved anomalies include ice buoyancy, ice slipperiness, water skin toughness, supercooling and superheating at the nanoscale, etc. Evidence shows consistently that molecular undercoordination shortens the H–O bond and stiffens its phonon while undercoordination does the O:H nonbond contrastingly associated with strong lone pair “:” polarization, which endows the low-dimensional water ice with supersolidity. The supersolid phase is hydrophobic, less dense, viscoelastic, thermally more diffusive, and stable, having longer electron and phonon lifetime. The equal number of lone pairs and protons reserves the configuration and orientation of the coupled O:H–O bonds and restricts molecular rotation and proton hopping, which entitles water the simplest, ordered, tetrahedrally-coordinated, fluctuating molecular crystal covered with a supersolid skin. The O:H–O segmental cooperativity and specific-heat disparity form the soul dictate the extraordinary adaptivity, reactivity, recoverability, and sensitivity of water ice when subjecting to physical perturbation. It is recommended that the premise of “hydrogen bonding and electronic dynamics” would deepen the insight into the core physics and chemistry of water ice.
Temperature dependent terahertz giant anisotropy and cycloidal spin wave modes in BiFeO3 single crystal*
Authors: Liu Fan , Jin Zuanming , Liu Xiumei , Fan Yuqing , Guo Jiajia , Peng Yan , Cheng Zhenxiang , Ma Guohong , Zhu Yiming
Published: April 2020

THz time-domain spectroscopy (THz-TDS) is used to study the THz-optical properties of a single crystal bismuth ferrite BiFeO3 (BFO). It can be found that the anisotropy of BiFeO3 is strongly dependent on the temperature. A giant birefringence up to around 3.6 is observed at 1 THz. The presence of a spatially modulated cycloidal antiferromagnetic structure leads to spin cycloid resonances (SCR) ψ and Φ, corresponding to the out-of-plane and in-plane modes of the spin cycloid, respectively. We distinguish the SCR with respect to their response to orthogonal polarizations of the electric fields of the incident THz beam. In addition, we observe a resonance appearing below 140 K, which might be interpreted as an electromagnon mode and related to a spin reorientation transition. Our present observations present that the temperature and polarization, as the external control parameters, can be used to modulate the THz optical properties of BFO single crystal.
Effects of microwave oxygen plasma treatments on microstructure and Ge-V photoluminescent properties of diamond particles*
Authors: Sheng Ling-Xiao , Chen Cheng-Ke , Jiang Mei-Yan , Li Xiao , Hu Xiao-Jun
Published: April 2020

The microstructure and Ge-V photoluminescent properties of diamond particles treated by microwave oxygen plasma are investigated. The results show that in the first 5 min of microwave plasma treatment, graphite and disordered carbon on the surface of the particles are etched away, so that diamond with regular crystal plane, smaller lattice stress, and better crystal quality is exposed, producing a Ge-V photoluminescence (PL) intensity 4 times stronger and PL peak FWHM (full width at half maximum) value of 6.6 nm smaller than the as-deposited sample. It is observed that the cycles of ‘diamond is converted into graphite and disordered carbon, then the graphite and disordered carbon are etched’ can occur with the treatment time further increasing. During these cycles, the particle surface alternately appears smooth and rough, corresponding to the strengthening and weakening of Ge-V PL intensity, respectively, while the PL intensity is always stronger than that of the as-deposited sample. The results suggest that not only graphite but also disordered carbon weakens the Ge-V PL intensity. Our study provides a feasible way of enhancing the Ge-V PL properties and effectively controlling the surface morphology of diamond particle.
Improvement of valley splitting and valley injection efficiency for graphene/ferromagnet heterostructure*
Authors: Xu Longxiang , Lu Wengang , Hu Chen , Guo Qixun , Shang Shuai , Xu Xiulan , Yu Guanghua , Yan Yu , Wang Lihua , Teng Jiao
Published: April 2020

The valley splitting has been realized in the graphene/Ni heterostructure with the splitting value of 14 meV, and the obtained valley injecting efficiency from the heterostructure into graphene was 6.18% [Phys. Rev. B
92 115404 (2015)]. In this paper, we report a way to improve the valley splitting and the valley injecting efficiency of the graphene/Ni heterostructure. By intercalating an Au monolayer between the graphene and the Ni, the split can be increased up to 50 meV. However, the valley injecting efficiency is not improved because the splitted valley area of graphene moves away from the Fermi level. Then, we mend the deviation by covering a monolayer of Cu on the graphene. As a result, the valley injecting efficiency of the Cu/graphene/Au/Ni heterostructure reaches 10%, which is more than 60% improvement compared to the simple graphene/Ni heterostructure. Then we theoretically design a valley-injection device based on the Cu/graphene/Au/Ni heterostructure and demonstrate that the valley injection can be easily switched solely by changing the magnetization direction of Ni, which can be used to generate and control the valley-polarized current.
Constraints on neutron skin thickness and symmetry energy of 208Pb through Skyrme forces and cluster model
Authors: Amiri M. Moghaddari , Ghodsi O. N.
Published: April 2020

We used the cluster structure properties of the 212Po to estimate the neutron skin thickness of 208Pb. For this purpose, we considered two important components: (a) alpha decay is a low energy phenomenon; therefore, one can expect that the mean-field, which can explain the ground state properties of 212Po, does not change during the alpha decay process. (b) 212Po has a high alpha cluster-like structure, two protons and two neutrons outside its core nucleus with a double magic closed-shell, and the cluster model is a powerful formalism for the estimation of alpha decay preformation factor of such nuclei. The slope of the symmetry energy of 208Pb is estimated to be

MeV within the selected same mean-fields and Skyrme forces, which can simultaneously satisfy the ground-state properties of parent and daughter nuclei, as their neutron skin thicknesses are consistent with experimental data.
First order QED processes in a spatially flat FLRW space-time with a Milne-type scale factor
Authors: Cotăescu Ion I. , Popescu Diana
Published: April 2020

The quantum electrodynamics (QED) in a spatially flat (1+3)-dimensional Friedmann-Lemaître-Robertson-Walker (FLRW) space-time with a Milne-type scale factor is outlined focusing on the amplitudes of the allowed processes in the first order perturbations. The definition of the transition rates is reconsidered such that an appropriate angular behavior of the probability for creation of an electron-positron pair from a photon is obtained, which has a similar rate as the creation of a photon and an electron-positron pair from vacuum. It is shown that these processes are allowed only in the first order perturbations, since the photon emission or absorption by an electron or positron are forbidden.
Optimization of Two-Component Nuclear Power System
Authors: Muraviev E V
Published: April 2020

System study results are presented that demonstrate the feasibility of Russian nuclear power attaining 120 GW(e) level by the century end, taking into account decommissioning of older NPPs that complete their operation life, and assuming the new NPPs commissioning rate of 4-6 power units per 5 years until the year of 2050 and up to 10 units per 5 years in the second half of the century. The possibility of complete nuclear power transition through the stage of two-component structure towards the new technological platform with naturally safe fast neutron reactors domination has been confirmed. No limitations related either to the national uranium resources or to the enrichment capabilities have been revealed.
Power unit with RP BREST-OD-300
Authors: Lemekhov V V , Petrenko A V , Yashkin A V
Published: April 2020

Pilot demonstration energy complex (PDEC) is designed for elaboration of technology for closure of the nuclear fuel cycle (CNFC) for further implementation of highpower energy complexes in the industrial scale. The project “Construction of the pilot and demonstration power unit with the lead-cooled fast neutron reactor on the site of abandoned territory “Seversk” (BREST-OD-300) is developed in accordance with requirements specification for development and implementation of nuclear power technologies and natural safety based on the fast neutron reactors and closed nuclear fuel cycle. The article describes the power unit with a reactor plant, its design characteristics, the layout of the primary circuit equipment, as well as special attention is paid to safety systems, nuclear and radiation safety and regulatory compliance in support of the safe operation of the reactor plant.
Radioactive isotope production in the fast neutron nuclear reactors
Authors: Risovanyi V
Published: April 2020

The present work reviews the primary benefits of radioactive isotope production in the fast neutron reactors the accumulated foreign and local experience in usage of this type of reactors for radioactive isotope production, and also the potential new trends in development of the existing technologies. The main advantage of isotope production in the fast neutron reactors is their high capacity and lower value in general as compared with the accelerating installations. One nuclear reactor may produce dozens of different isotopes including Cj-60, Sr-89 (targets on the base of yttrium), Ni-63 (targets on the base of copper), Eu-152, Eu-154, Sm-145, Sn-117n, Cu-64 and others. It should also be emphasized that a number of radioisotopes are most efficiently produced only in fast and intermediate neutron spectra, which is not possible in nuclear thermal reactors and, above all, in research reactors. Studies have shown that the organization of large-scale production of radioisotopes can significantly increase the economic attractiveness of fast-neutron reactors.
State of development of the heavy coolant quality support and control system for NF BREST-OD-300
Authors: Orlov A I , Orlov Yu I , Gulevskiy V A
Published: April 2020

Liquid lead has been chosen as the coolant for nuclear power plants with inherent safety in Russian Federation. Its physical and chemical properties offer distinct advantages over other types of coolants in FR with inherent safety, but this coolant also possesses certain technological challenges in the course of reactor operation. Heavy liquid metal technology management system for BREST-OD-300 reactor consists of a number of high-end technological devices designed to operate and maintain crucial parameters of lead coolant for decades. Development of these devices required innovative and creative approach as well as strong verification procedures. This presentation will give recent updates on the development of oxygen sensors, mass-exchange devices, hydrogen purification system, coolant filter, hydrogen sensors, which combined present Coolant quality control and management system.
Program for CNFC R&D using BN-800
Authors: Khomyakov Yu S , Zherebtsov A A , Shadrin A Yu , Khaperskaya A V , Vasiliev B A , Farashkin M R
Published: April 2020

Beloyarsk NPP with BN-800 reactor provides unique opportunities for the further development of fast reactor (FR) technologies and the development of the closed nuclear fuel cycle (CNFC). R&D program on the development CNFC technologies on the basis of the BN- 800 are currently developed. Program is planned for both MOX and nitride fuel. The main purpose of R&D are optimization of CNFC technologies in industrial scale, getting the reference experience and testing technologies in BN-800, verification new generation computer codes. In the framework R&D program to simulate elements CNFC technologies is expected to make and demonstrate the three major step to CNFC

– recycling of plutonium from spent fuel of thermal reactors;

– multiple recycling of fuel fast reactors;

– transmutation of minor actinides.

The presented program includes three main blocks

– the development of technologies for reprocessing spent MOX fuel of BN-800;

– the development of technologies of mixed nitride fuel (forming BN-800 core with the insertion of the nitride fuel, the demonstration of recycle equilibrium fuel with breeding ratio ∼1);

– development of partitioning and MA transmutation technologies in the FR.

It is anticipated that this Program will create the world’s first industrial power complex in the fullness of implementing CNFC with FR in the 30s.
Gold-coated iron oxide nanoparticles as a potential photothermal therapy agent to enhance eradication of breast cancer cells
Authors: Dheyab M A , Aziz A A , Jameel M S , Khaniabadi P M , Mehrdel B , Khaniabadi B M
Published: April 2020

Iron oxide nanoparticles (Fe3O4 NPs) possess unique physicochemical properties which make them great for biomedical applications. This study reports the development of gold (Au) coated Fe3O4 (Au-Fe3O4 NPs) for photothermal therapy to eradicate breast cancer cells (MCF-7). The spherical shape of monodisperse Au-Fe3O4 NPs with an average size of 20.8 nm was confirmed by TEM. The cell viability evaluation of Au-Fe3O4 NPs showed negligible toxicity toward MCF-7 cells after 24 h. Significant cell reduction was observed for MCF-7 (73.9%) cells following photothermal therapy at highest concentration of NPs (50 μgFe/ml) for 10 minutes illumination when compared with other intervention groups. It can be concluded that, the synthesized Au-Fe3O4 NPs is an effective and promising photothermal therapy agent for breast cancer treatment.
Comparison of data-driven respiratory signal extraction methods from cone-beam CT (CBCT)
Authors: Mohd Amin A T , Mokri S S , Ahmad R , Abd Rahni A A
Published: April 2020

In Cone-Beam CT (CBCT) imaging, respiratory motion needs to be considered to mitigate motion artifacts thus increasing the accuracy of reconstructed images. Data driven methods can be used to extract respiratory signal directly from projection data without requiring any additional equipment or surrogate devices. Digital phantoms provide an adequate option to evaluate developing methods prior to clinical implementation. In this study, four data driven methods are used to extract respiratory signal from simulated projections. An in-house 4D MRI-based CBCT digital phantom is used, where actual respiratory signal is available as ground truth. In comparing all four data driven methods, the respiratory signal extracted using the Local Principal Component Analysis (LPCA) method is found to be robust and yielded the highest correlation coefficient of 0.8644 compared to the ground truth.
Three-dimensional (3D) scanning using Microsoft® Kinect® Xbox 360® scanner for fabrication of 3D printed radiotherapy head phantom
Authors: Zain N E , Rahman W N
Published: April 2020

Radiotherapy phantoms are essential equipment for treatment verification and quality assurance. Recently, development in 3D printing technology provides an opportunity for fabricating patient-specific radiotherapy phantom that has many potential applications in clinical and research. This study investigates the application of Microsoft Kinect® Xbox 360 scanner to model human topography for 3D printed radiotherapy phantom fabrication. The feasibility and performance of the Kinect® scanner were tested on a standard commercial head phantom. The scanned head image was then edited and adapted for 3D printing. The finding suggests that the radiotherapy phantom can potentially be developed using the Kinect® sensor, which is easier and cheaper to operate in comparison to other techniques of fabricating 3D printed radiotherapy phantom.
Evaluation of a deep learning based brain tumour segmentation method
Authors: Mat Din Nor Kharul Aina , Abd.Rahni Ashrani Aizzuddin
Published: April 2020

Brain tumour segmentation is an important task in the diagnosis of brain tumours, in particular gliomas. Manual segmentation of brain tumors is a time-consuming task due to the large amount of MR images generated during imaging, and it also depends on the clinicians’ skill. Recently there has been interest in the use of deep learning, in particular those based on convolutional neural networks (CNN), to automate brain tumour segmentation more robustly. In this work we evaluate a cascaded CNN architecture on a popular public multisequence MRI dataset, consisting of around 500 patients in total. There are two networks which are separately trained on the BraTS 2015 and BraTS 2017 datasets. In self validation, the 2015 model produced dice scores of 0.9098 and 0.8308 for the whole tumour and tumour core respectively, whereas the 2017 model produced dice scores of 0.9128 and 0.9150 for the whole tumour and tumour core respectively. On the other hand, in cross validation, the 2015 model produced dice scores of 0.8762 and 0.7722 for the whole tumour and tumour core respectively, whereas the 2017 model produced dice scores of 0.8824 and 0.7454 for the whole tumour and tumour core respectively.
Brain responses to high frequencies (270 Hz-480 Hz) changes due to vibratory stimulation of human fingertips: An fMRI study
Authors: Seri F A S , Abd Hamid A I , Abdullah J M , Idris Z , Omar H
Published: April 2020

This fMRI study investigated the effects of vibratory stimulation on somatosensory areas during high-frequencies stimulation using a piezoelectric finger stimulation system during an fMRI scan. Twelve healthy right-handed subjects were stimulated at 270 Hz-480 Hz and the fMRI dataset was analysed to generate the activated regions due to the high-frequencies stimulation. The activated regions were identified and thresholded at Puncorrected<0.001 for multiple comparisons. The average effect of frequencies revealed significant activation in the left thalamus, right inferior parietal gyrus, right medial frontal gyrus, and right precuneus whereas the main effect of frequencies revealed significant activation in the left thalamus. The positive effect of frequencies displayed significant activation in the left pallidum, right amygdala, right superior temporal gyrus, right medial temporal gyrus. The vibratory stimulation at a frequency of 330 Hz and 360 Hz (330 Hz<360 Hz) revealed a significant difference in the left thalamus. Findings indicated the role of the secondary somatosensory areas processing and transporting sensory information to perform the perceptual and cognitive function.
Radiation dose management in CT imaging: Initial experience with commercial dose watch software
Authors: Osman N D , Isa S M , Karim N K A , Ismail N , Roslee M A A M , Naharuddin H M , Razali M A S M
Published: April 2020

In this study, a patient dose tracking software was utilised for the management patient doses and optimisation of scanning protocols for computed tomography (CT) imaging. This study aimed to evaluate the used of GE DoseWatch software for local dose tracking and management. The commercial DoseWatch software was first installed at Imaging Unit, Advanced Medical and Dental Institute, Universiti Sains Malaysia (AMDI, USM), Penang on November 2018. All the CT scans were tracked by this software connected on-line to the Siemens SOMATOM AS+ CT scanner and GE Discovery SPECT/CT scanner. A total of 361 CT dose dataset were evaluated during the period of 10 months started from November 2018 until August 2019. From the initial experience, this software allows rapid and reliable collection and management of the CT dose data involving large number of examinations. From comparative study with our established local dose reference level, the mean DLP for few CT protocols exceeded the LDRLs such as TAP (10%), Routine Brain (89%), and HeadRoutine (38%) CT study which need further assessment and audit on the current local CT protocols. However, implementation of the software required knowledgeable and well-trained user for the full-benefits. Accurate data and protocol types should also be selected by the users during the CT scanning as it will influence the whole process of dose tracking and management on the software.
Validation of kVp measurement using the HVL approach for standard beam qualities for mammography
Authors: Ismail Wan Hazlinda , Kabir Norlaili A
Published: April 2020

In mammography imaging, the most common target material used in mammography machines are Molybdenum (Mo) target with Mo filters. In the publication of International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) 61267, the establishment of mammography beam qualities assembly are given in 3 fixed parameters namely the target material which is Mo, the Mo filter thickness and the tube voltage. While, Mo target with rhodium (Rh) filters combination standard beam qualities were established by the Physikalish-Technische Bundesanstalt (PTB) primary standard Laboratory. The objective of this study is to measure the kVp and HVL ranging from 23-31 kV. Later compare the displayed kilovoltage peak (kVp) on the control panel with the kVp measured using a non-invasive kVp meter and validating them with the HVL measurement. From the results, the kVp dialed and kVp measured shows significant difference by 2-4 kV. The HVL measured for the kVp before and after corrected also shows similar pattern, where the HVL after kVp is correct is almost identical to the standard beam qualities with the difference of 1%. This verifies that the kVp measurement using a non-invasive kVp meter can be validated with just a simple measurement of its HVL for mammography standard beam qualities.
Effects of different volumes of inhomogeneous medium to the radial dose and anisotropy functions in HDR brachytherapy
Authors: Ab Shukor N S , Musarudin M , Abdullah R , Abd Aziz M Z
Published: April 2020

The aim of this study is to study the effects of non –homogenous region closer to the HDR Brachytherapy source. Radial widths of 1, 3 and 5 cm of an inhomogeneous cylindrical area filled with bone and lung tissue in a water phantom are modelled in this study. The effects of this inhomogeneity to the g(r) and F(r,θ) of Nucletron 192Ir microSelectron HDR source are assessed. The results show that the assumption of homogeneous water leads to underestimation of the bone dose by the treatment planning system. Meanwhile, overestimation of the dose is observed in the surrounding area. A relative difference of up to 19% is calculated for the largest bone volume. Contrast results are observed for the lung inhomogeneity model. A relative difference of up to 12% is observed in the lung dose. The presence of inhomogeneous region in the water phantom affects the anisotropy function; at a radial distance greater than 5 cm. Our results indicate that the presence of bone and lung inside the water phantom affect the g(r) and F(r,θ) in HDR brachytherapy. The degree of the effects depends on the material, position and volume of the inhomogeneity area.
Forests and emerging infectious diseases: unleashing the beast within
Authors: Guégan Jean-François , Ayouba Ahidjo , Cappelle Julien , de Thoisy Benoît
Published: April 2020

Deforestation and associated changing landscapes are major components of environmental changes, with important implications for ecosystem functioning and biodiversity conservation. Tropical forests are hot spots of biodiversity and provide multiple goods and ecosystem services which benefit people in many ways. Forests also play an important role in health-related legends, myths, and fairy tales from all over the world, and are important sources of new potential emerging microbial threats to humans. Although plausibly numerous abundant microbial forms with a forest origin may exist, our systematic literature review shows that forest-derived infection studies are relatively unexplored, and both taxonomically and geographically biased. Since biodiversity has been associated with emergence of novel infectious diseases at macro-scale, we describe the main biogeographical patterns in the emerging infection-biodiversity-forest loss nexus. Then, we illustrate four fine-scale case studies to decipher the underlying processes of increased infection risk in changing forest clearing landscapes. Finally, we identify scientific challenges and regional management measures required to mitigate these important new emerging threats.
Dynamical response of atmospheric circulation to below-normal East Sea sea surface temperatures associated with heavy snowfall in eastern Korea
Authors: Kim Taekyun , Kim Yoonjae , Moon Jae-Hong , Jin Emilia Kyung
Published: April 2020

Prior studies have shown that above-normal sea surface temperatures (SSTs) enhance snowfall over Korea. Here, we show that heavy snow is also associated with below-normal East Sea SSTs, and we investigate the dynamical response of the atmosphere to this surface condition using observations and numerical modeling. The results indicate that anomalous southeasterly/easterly winds are induced by heavy snowfall-related cold SST anomalies, and consequently, the moisture flux is converged. The existence of the southeasterly winds and the accompanied moisture flux convergence appear to be instrumental in producing the heavy snowfall events. The anomalous southeasterly/easterly winds associated with heavy snowfall-related cold SST anomalies reduce the climatological northwesterly/westerly winds, leading to relatively warm and wet conditions over the east coast of Korea that are favorable for forming and intensifying snowfall events in the region.
Compatibility of trap cropping system and insecticides in managing leafminers Liriomyza spp. (Diptera: Agromyzidae) on shallot crop
Authors: Saleh S , Anshary A , Yunus M , Hasriyanty
Published: April 2020

Trap cropping system has been widely used as a management strategy against various types of pests. However, the efficacy of this strategy varies and need to be increased by combining it with another additional control strategy. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of trap cropping system and insecticides against leafminers, an important pest of crops in the world including in shallot crop in Indonesia. The study was arranged in a randomized complete block design with 6 treatments, which were 1) without any treatments (control), 2) trap crops, 3) botanical insecticide (Agonal), 4) synthetic insecticide (Abamectin) 5) trap crops and Agonal, 6) trap crops and abamectin. The results showed that the trap cropping system has a stronger effect on reducing infestation than the population of leafminers. Trap crops reduced leafminer infestation by around 50% when combined with insecticides but only reduced by 32 % without insecticides. Agonal and abamectin insecticides had similar efficacy against leafminers. Trap crop application combined with insecticides had the highest parasitoid population compared with insecticides and control. This study revealed that trap crops were compatible with insecticides in controlling shallot leafminers and supports the integrated pest management of leafminers.
Flavor ingredients in the rodenticide formulation to improve consumption rate and mortality of house rat (Rattus tanezumi L.)
Authors: Syahputri D A A , Priyambodo S
Published: April 2020

House rat (Rattus tanezumi L.) is an urban pest that are disturbing in the settlements habitat. It can cause destruction and as a reservoir of pathogen to human. Control efforts have been conducted, both non-chemical and chemical. A flavoring ingredient in the formulation of rodenticide is required for chemical control. The objective of this study was to investigate the preference of house rat to flavor ingredients i.e. egg, sugar, monosodium glutamate, cooking oil, and soy sauce. The benefit of this research is to provide information and knowledge on the preference of house rat to the flavor type combined with rodenticide. These ingredients could be attractive enough to combine with acute rodenticide (zinc phosphide) and chronic rodenticide (coumatetralyl) for application in the field. Research conducted at Vertebrate Pest Laboratory, Dept. of Plant Protection, IPB Univ. for 6 month. Preliminary trial conducted to test the different concentration of several flavoring ingredients. Then, it mixed with 2 rodenticides, acute and chronic. The preliminary trial indicated that 10% of egg was the most preferable bait. The daily consumption on acute rodenticide (1.29 g) was significantly different to positive control (0.24 g). On the other hand, the consumption on chronic rodenticide was very high (3.34 g) and significantly different to negative control (2.18 g) and positive control (0.21 g). Mortality rate of test animal on acute and chronic rodenticide was 80% and 90%, respectively.
Diversity of dung beetle (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae) in oil palm agropasture ecosystem in West Kotawaringin Regency, Central Kalimantan, Indonesia
Authors: Sa’roni S M , Prabowo R , Sahari B , Buchori D
Published: April 2020

Cattle grazing on oil palm plantation (agropastoral) has the potential to increase biodiversity by providing new habitats and providing foods for invertebrates. Dung beetles use the cattle’s dung for food and to lay eggs. The aim of this research is to study the effect of cattle grazing on oil palm plantation toward the diversity, abundance and ecosystem services of dung beetles. The research was conducted in the oil palm plantation of PT. Astra Agro Lestari Tbk. Central Kalimantan Province. Samplings were done on 6 oil palm blocks (4 plots on each block) consisting of 3 blocks that have been grazed by cattle (agropastoral) and 3 blocks that were not grazed (non-agropastoral). Samplings were done using baited pitfall traps and dung removal test. The treatments were replicated 4 times (0, 4, 8 and 12 wk). In total 24 species belonging to 5 genera and 11 019 individuals dung beetle have been collected. The most diverse group were genera from Onthophagus (16 species; 66.7% of collected species) and follow by Aphodius (4 species; 16.6%), Catharsius (2 species; 8.3%), Panelus (1 species; 4.2%) and Oniticellus (1 species; 4.2%). The result showed that the diversity of dung beetle was the same in agropastoral and non-agropastoral, but the abundance was 4 times higher in agropastoral habitat. Dung removal in non-agropastoral was 16% higher than agropastoral. Overall the result showed that cattle grazing has increased dung beetle population, although it has no effect on the diversity and ecosystem service of dung beetle.
Biology and dynamics Hypsipyla robusta (Moore) (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae)
Authors: Nuraeni Y , Nuroniah H S
Published: April 2020

Hypsipyla shoot borer (Hypsipyla robusta (Moore)) (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) is the main pest of mahogany plants. This pest attacks the apical shoots and inhibits the growth of mahogany. This study observed the biology, damage, and attack patterns of Hypsipyla shoot borer attack on mahogany plants. The study was conducted for 1 yr by periodically monitoring per 2 mo of 3 blocks of mahogany plantation in KHDTK Haurbentes, Jawa Barat. Data collected included 1) observation of symptoms, signs, presence of pests, effects of attacks, and 2) number of attacks. The symptom of the shoot borer was the presence of a hole filled with powder from the secretion of pests; the sign of an attack was the appearance of shoot borer larvae in the stem hole of the shoot area; while the effects of attacks were the death of the shoot and the emergence of multishoots. Observation showed that shoot borer attacks were not influenced by the weather, with the highest attack occurred in March 2017. Various levels of instars could be found at one time, indicating that insect growth in the field was not uniform. One cycle takes 5 to 8 wk. The highest rate of repeated attacks founded was 7 times/tree/yr, the average attack occurred 2-4 times/tree/yr.
The effect of pesticide residue on mortality and fecundity of Elaeidobius kamerunicus (Coleoptera: Curculionidae)
Authors: Setyawan Y P , Naim M , Advento A D , Caliman J P
Published: April 2020

The effect of pesticide residue (acaricide, insecticides, herbicides, and fungicides) commonly used in oil palm plantations was assessed to pollinating weevil,Elaeidobius kamerunicusunder laboratory condition. The study showed that all insecticides and acaricide in the spikelet were harmful to the weevil, causing mortality ranged from 37% to 100% application. Dimehypo, carbosulfan and deltamethrin cause 100% mortality at 10 hr after treatment (HAT) followed by fipronil, acephate, pyridaben, imidacloprid andBacillus thuringiensiscause 87%, 83%, 60%, 40% and 37% mortality at 10 HAT respectively. Our study also revealed that all herbicides recidu in the spikelet had a negative impact on the weevil. Metsulfuron-methyl caused the highest mortality (83%) of the weevils death, followed by triclopyr, ammonium glufosinate, glyphosate, and fluroxyphyr caused 63%, 43%, 33% and 30% at 10 HAT, respectively. Fungicides also had negative impact with lower extent. Exposing mancozeb was causing 27% mortality, significantly higher than benomyl (13%). Further analysis showed that acaricide and insecticides significantly reduce fecundity of the weevil except forB. thuringiensis,herbicides, and fungicides. The study suggests that choosing correct active ingredients would maintain sustainable number of weevil in oil palm plantation and would avoid the declining regeneration effect of pollinating weevil.
Electronic nose for early detection of basal stem rot caused by Ganoderma in oil palm
Authors: Kresnawaty I , Mulyatni A S , Eris D D , Prakoso H T , Tri-Panji  , Triyana K , Widiastuti H
Published: April 2020

The successful control of basal rot disease (BSR) determined by early detection of infection because when the symptoms already appear, generally plants are difficult to save. The earlier the Ganoderma infection is known, the easier the control will be and the losses can be minimized. Therefore, early detection of Ganoderma infection is very necessary, which in this study was carried out by detecting volatile compounds using electronic nose (E-nose). E-nose detection has been carried out to analyze the compounds formed in pure Ganoderma culture. Detection of plants in the field carried out at 4 levels of infection, i.e. healthy, early, moderate and severe infection. The results concluded that Ganoderma mycelium when compared with other fungi (Trichoderma, Aspergillus and Omphalina) showed significant differences when analyzed using an unsupervised PCA chemometric system. The E-nose data processed using machine learning Support Vector Machine (SVM) was able to distinguish the aroma between Ganoderma boninense CSB, G. boninense ‘Rejosari’, and G. lucidum with an accuracy rate of 99.64%. E nose was able to differentiate with high accuracy (90.95%) of each infection level even though there was still a slice between in root sample.
Incidence of basal stem rot disease of oil palm in converted planting areas and control treatments
Authors: Priwiratama H , Prasetyo A E , Susanto A
Published: April 2020

The incidence of BSR was observed over years in 4 historically-different planting areas i.e. land converted from rubber, cacao and swamp, and continuous oil palm replanting area. In addition, we observed the effect of surgery-mounding to the lifetime of Ganoderma-infected palms and the effectiveness of different replanting techniques on the incidence of BSR disease. The infection rate of Ganoderma was faster in oil palm replanting area at 7.68% per yr, followed by land conversion from swamp, cacao, and rubber at 4.67%, 3.81%, and 1.06% per yr, respectively. Surgery-mounding of Ganoderma-infected palms can prolong the lifetime of the infected palms with number of death palm up to 4.45%. Meanwhile, removal of Ganoderma inoculum sources during replanting contributes to lower BSR incidence in the first nine years. The lowest incidence of BSR was observed following the complete removal of oil palm debris in combination with big-hole planting system with less than 5% infected palms. On the other hand, the incidence of BSR on the individual use of big-hole planting system during replanting was at 6.29% at 9 yr after planting. The result suggests the importance of inoculum removal during replanting to prevent Ganoderma infection in the early phase of oil palm development.
Morphological and molecular characteristics of Hemicriconemoides cocophillus from the origin of Robusta coffee plantation in Malang, East Java
Authors: Budiman A , Supramana  , Giyanto
Published: April 2020

Hemicriconemoides cocophillus is one of the phytonematode associated with Robusta coffee plantation. Information regarding morphology, morphometry, and molecular characters of H. cocophillus has not been reported in Indonesia. This study is aimed to describe characters of H. cocophillus that was extracted from soil samples taken from Robusta coffee plantation in Malang, East Java. Nematode extraction was conducted using the flotation-centrifuge method. Morphology and morphometric characters were observed from the permanent nematode slides. Single nematode DNA extract was amplified at the D2D3 segment of 28S and ITS1-5.8S-ITS2 with universal primers. The amplicon was sequenced and analyzed for similarity and phylogenetic tree analysis. The female morphological key character of H. cocophillus are sheath looks clear and thin, stylet strong with anchor-shaped knobs, and tail tapering to a finely rounded tip. Female morphometrics key characters are n=5, L=446.5±22.5 μm, a=15.8±0.9, b=5.3±0.2, c=13.9±1.5, stylet length=51.6±2 µm, tail length=32.3±3.2 µm. Based on the D2D3 and ITS1-5.8S-ITS2 regions, H. cocophillus have similarity level of 99% and 98%, respectively with H. cocophillus from NCBI. Phylogenetic tree result using Maximum Likelihood at the D2D3 segment of 28S and ITS1-5.8S-ITS2 regions shows that H. cocophillus in this study was included in one clade with H. cocophillus from Mozambique.
Metagenomics analysis of soil microbial communities in plant agroforestry system rubber tree (Hevea brasiliensis) – Ganyong (Canna sp.)
Authors: Effendi Y , Aini N , Pambudi A , Sasaerila H Y
Published: April 2020

Rubber tree (Hevea brasiliensis) is one of important industrial plants in Indonesia. It is planted widely in some provinces in Indonesia, one of which is in West Java under management of the PTPN VIII plantation, Subang Regency. Intercropping system using underutilized crops Canna sp. (Ganyong) had been introduced on Rubber plantation. The aim of this research is to analyze the diversity, abundance and richness of rhizosphere soil microbial under rubber-canna agroforestry system using metagenomic analysis of 16S rRNA gene of soil rhizosphere bacteria. The research was carried out by collecting soil samples from 2 different soil conditions (soils with Canna (G) and soils without Canna (TG)). 2 different soil depths conditions (20 and 40 cm) were also investigated. The results showed that number of microbial in G soils was found more abundance than in TG soils, while based on soil depth there was no significant effect on soil microbial abundance. Based on class level was found 84 Classes. There were 3 classes that are mostly found in G and TG, namely Ktedonobacteria, Acidobacteria and Planctomycetia. Microbial diversity in family level mostly found in G and TG, Namely Koribacteraceae, Gemmataceae, Synobacteraceae, Hyphomicrobiaceae.
Utilization of rapid detection kit in measuring Huanglongbing outbreak level: case study in Koto Tinggi, West Sumatera, Indonesia
Authors: Puspitasari  , Yunimar  , Sastro Yudi
Published: April 2020

Huanglongbing (HLB) is a disease of citrus caused by bacterium Liberobacter asiaticus that can lead to plant death. Most farmers are unaware that their plants have been infected since the beginning of plant growth, and rather considers the condition as a result of nutrient deficiency. Detection of HLB usually is conducted in expensive and complicated laboratory test through PCR (polymerase chain reaction). Rapid detection is necessary in order to formulate a strategy to solve the HLB outbreak appropriately. HLB Rapid Detection Kit is an innovation that can identify the presence of HLB easily and inexpensive way, even farmers can do the test by themselves. An observation has done to apply the HLB Rapid Detection Kit in citrus plantation area of Koto Tinggi, Agam district, West Sumatera. The results revealed that the number of citrus plants that affected by HLB disease was 19.22% - 41.84%. HLB outbreak in citrus plantation suspected to be due to the use of citrus infected seedlings. The strategies for restoration citrus areas that have HLB outbreak are eradicating and replanting citrus plantation using certified disease-free citrus seedlings, those implementation should be integrated in citrus area.
Knowledge, attitude and action of farmers in controlling plant pest and disease of potato in Garut, West Java
Authors: Munif A , Rachmawati V
Published: April 2020

Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) is one of the 5 leading commodities of seasonal vegetables and a source of income for people in Indonesia. Plant pests and diseases are still the main obstacles in potato production. Since 1992, the government of Indonesia has determined that control of plant pest and disease should be carried out with an integrated pest management system (IPM). The objective of this research was to study the implementation of an integrated pest management (IPM) system of pests and diseases of potato by farmers in Cikajang and Cisurupan sub-district, Garut district, West Java. The study was conducted by direct interviews with 80 potato farmers as respondents. The selection of respondent farmers was carried out systematically. The results of study showed that the majority of the respondents were able to identify the types of the importance pests and diseases of potatoes and their impact on crop losses. Likewise, some of farmers have implemented of several IPM components in controlling pests and diseases, including good practices in soil management, providing manure and synthetic fertilizers, using healthy seeds, observing pests and diseases routinely in the field. In controlling action of plant pest and disease on potato, the majority of respondent used synthetic pesticides. They applied pesticides every week and often used more than 2 types or mixing 2 or 3 types of pesticides in each application.
Expert system application: the smart tools for citrus pest and disease management
Authors: Wuryantini S , Harwanto  , Endarto O , Wicaksono R C
Published: April 2020

Expert system technology of the citrus pest and diseases was created by Indonesian Citrus and Subtropical Fruits Research Institute (ICSFRI). This technology was developed to overcome problem with delayed disease monitoring. If the pest attack was not immediately resolved, it would cause more serious damages to the plant and would cause decreasing in the quantity and quality of the citrus yield. In order to anticipate the delay in control, an observation or monitoring carried out during the critical period of the plant was necessary to be done. This technology was in the form of a web-based or android-based program or software application system that was used to monitor citrus pest and disease. The use of this expert system application had been validated in several citrus center areas in Indonesia, i.e. Jember and Banyuwangi, East Java; Sambas - West Kalimantan; Barito Kuala - South Kalimantan and Bangli - Bali. Observation using this application, the data of pest and diseases status at a certain time and location were automatically be recorded in the system and immediately would be known whether or not the control was needed. Thus, the use of this technology as a tool for monitoring citrus pests and disease can be used as a reference for Early Warning System on citrus pest and disease control.
Bioreduction properties of Pometia pinnata J. R. Forst. & G. Forst (Sapindaceae) for silver nanoparticles synthesis
Authors: Pridyantari A P , Ningrum A S , Handayani W , Imawan C
Published: April 2020

Plant extracts have been recognized as a substitute for chemical reducing agents in the synthesis of nanoparticles. Plants with antioxidants, including phenols and flavonoids, are expected to be reducing agents. Preliminary research has shown thatPometia pinnata(Matoa) stem bark aqueous extract can be used for silver nanoparticle (AgNP) biosynthesis. However, the compounds that serve as reducing agents in this process are still unknown. In this study, we studied antioxidant strength using DPPH radical reduction method. AgNP biosynthesis was performed by mixing powdered Matoa stem bark aqueous extract (2 %) with 1 mM AgNO3 (1:2). Further, pH of the Matoa stem bark aqueous extract was varied (pH 4, 7, 9 and 11), and one sample without pH adjustment was used as the control. Additionally, we synthesized AgNPs using the standard antioxidants gallic acid and rutin trihydrate. Our results showed that with increasing pH, changes in the color of solutions and escalation of UV–Vis spectrum absorbance were observed. The sizes and shapes of the AgNPs were further characterized using TEM and PSA, which revealed spherical and short rod-shaped particles. Our findings about the strength of the antioxidant activity of the Matoa stem bark aqueous extract under different pH conditions provide relevant information on the processes that can affect silver nanoparticle biosynthesis.
Agronomic characteristics and yield component of Rojolele transgenic rice resistant to Scirpophaga incertulas in biosafety containment
Authors: Chairunisa  , Zahra F , Nugroho S
Published: April 2020

This research observes and analyses the agronomic characteristics and yield component of six T8 generation of Rojolele transgenic rice lines (P8, Q20, U10, W3, X22, Y7) harboring Cry1B::Cry1Aa gene fusion conferring resistance to yellow stem borer (Schirphopaga interculas) compared to the nontransgenic Rojolele control plants. The experiment was done in a biosafety containment at the Research Centre for Biotechnology-LIPI in a (4.0 x 3.2) m2 pot with 50 cm spacing amongst lines and 25 cm between plants of the same line with 10 replicates each line. PCR analysis using Cry1B::Cry1Aa specific primer showed that all lines tested were transgenic as shown by the presence of 816 bp amplicon. The W3 transgenic line had the most similar agronomic characteristics to the Rojolele control plants in terms of plant height, leaf length, tiller numbers, stem diameter and flowering time. Yield components of the W3 line such as panicle length and total grains were also the closest to the Rojolele control plants compared to other transgenic lines. However, the number of empty grains was the highest. In general, the agronomic characteristics and yield component of all transgenic lines were less than of the Rojolele control plants.
Seagrass bed status: Case study of Panjang Island, Banten Bay
Authors: Hesdianti E , Patria M P
Published: April 2020

Seagrass community status was measured using a vegetation analysis method at three observation stations in Panjang Island, Banten Bay. Each station was transected by three lines that divided these stations into plots measuring 50 × 50 cm to record the seagrasses species found, number of seagrass shoots, and coverage. In addition, measurements of water quality parameters, including temperature, salinity, pH, brightness, and sediment grains at each station, sediment grain. A Pearson’s correlation test was conducted to determine the correlation between sediment and seagrass density. The measurement of water quality in Panjang Island indicates optimal conditions for seagrass growth, with sediment mixed with clay and sand rubble. The seagrasses found were Enhalus acoroides, Cymodocea serrulata, Syringodium isoetifolium, Halodule uninervis, and Halophila ovalis. The seagrass community in Panjang Island has good coverage (60.16 %) and high density levels (235.03 ind/m2). S. isoetifolium was the dominant seagrass with an importance value (IV) of 119.90. The correlation test showed that mud and clay sediments correlated with the density of E. acoroides.