bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Growth and production of M6 and M7 black soybean mutant genotypes
Authors: ANWAR SYAIFUL , KUSMIYATI FLORENTINA , LUKIWATI DWI RETNO , SAS MUHAMAD GHAZI AGAM , ARIFAH YULIA NUR
Published: August 2024

Abstract. Anwar S, Kusmiyati F, Lukiwati DR, Sas MGA, Arifah YN. 2024. Growth and production of M6 and M7 black soybean mutant genotypes. Biodiversitas 25: 2541-2546. The seed coat colors of soybeans are yellow, black, green, brown, or bicolor, and in Indonesia, black seed coat color is for used soy sauce. Our black soybean mutation breeding research started with irradiating soybean cultivar Detam 3 with gamma rays at 160, 208, 256, 304, 352, 400, 448, 496, 544, and 592 Gy. Genotypes were selected from M1 (first generation) to M5 (fifth generation) based on saline and/or nonsaline soil productions. This research aims to evaluate the growth and production of sixth-generation (M6) and seven-generation (M7) black soybean mutant genotypes. The research was conducted in Karangharjo Village, Pulokulon Sub-district, Grobogan District, Central Java Province, Indonesia. The plant material was three genotypes of M6 black soybean mutants (BSMG VQ 05-256/1-6-2-28, BSMG VQ 05-400/1-2-2-6 and BSMG VQ 05-256/1-2-9-29), four genotypes of M7 black soybean mutants (BSMG VQ 06-256/1-6-2-28, BSMG VQ 06-400/1-2-2-6 and BSMG VQ 06-256/1-2-9-29 and BSMG VQ 06-256/1-4-2-21) and three cultivar checks (Detam 1, Detam 3/parent variety and Detam 4 variety). The parameters measured consist of plant growth, components, and production. All data collected were subjected to statistical Analysis of Variance (ANOVA); if significantly different, it continued by Duncan Multiple Range Test (DMRT). The results showed that the genotype treatment affected all observed characters except plant height. Selected lines based on the number of leaves, number of pods, number of seeds, weight of 100 seeds, weight of seed, and production were BSMG VQ 05-256/1-2-9-29, BSMG VQ 05-256/1-2-9-29 and BSMG VQ 06-256/1-4-2-21. These selected genotypes provided the prospective source of soy sauce material and needed to examine its stability at different locations (multilocation test).
Characterization of endophytic bacteria isolated from wild rice plants in the Mekong Delta, Vietnam
Authors: THI QUACH VAN CAO , MINH NGUYEN LU KHOI , THUY NGUYEN PHUONG , TAT TRUONG QUOC , TRAN THANH
Published: August 2024

Abstract. Thi QVC, Minh NLK, Thuy NP, Tat TQ, Tran T. 2024. Characterization of endophytic bacteria isolated from wild rice plants in the Mekong Delta, Vietnam. Biodiversitas 25: 2576-2585. Endophytic bacteria bring many benefits to plants, such as stimulating plant growth and inhibiting many microbial pathogens that cause plant diseases. Hence, this investigation aimed to evaluate the association of endophytic bacteria with wild rice (Oryza rufipogon) that can fix nitrogen, solubilize phosphorus and produce indole-3-acetic acid (IAA). Twelve-five bacterial strains were recovered from wild rice stems and roots collected from Vinh Long and Tien Giang provinces of the Mekong Delta. Among these strains, six had phosphorus solubilizing and seven had nitrogen-fixing activity. Strain BR3.5 fixed the highest nitrogen, i.e. ammonia (NH4+) content of 0.109 ± 0.002 mg/L after eight-day incubation. However, the highest phosphorus solubilization was recorded in two isolates, RR3.7 and RR1.1, with clear zone diameters of 0.800 ± 0.020 mm and 0.800 ± 0.030 mm, respectively. In addition, bacterial strains could synthesize IAA, and BR2.5 produced the highest, i.e., 0.067 ± 0.002 ?g/mL, IAA after eight-day incubation. Notably, strain BR3.5 exhibited multiple activities like nitrogen fixation (0.109 ± 0.002 mg/L), phosphorus solubilization (1.02 ± 0.002 mm), and IAA synthesis (0.056 ± 0.00 ?g/mL). Strain BR3.5 was identified as Pantoea sp. based on 16S rRNA gene sequencing (92.69% similarity) together with morpho-physiological and biochemical characteristics. The findings indicate that strain BR3.5 may be used for the production of biofertilizers for rice farming.
Short Communication: Candida sp. isolated from mangrove soils for biological decolorization of textile reactive dyes
Authors: BOONTANOM PARIMA , CHANTARASIRI AIYA
Published: August 2024

Abstract. Boontanom P, Chantarasiri A. 2024. Short communication: Candida sp. isolated from mangrove soils for biological decolorization of textile reactive dyes. Biodiversitas 25: 2595-2602. Effluent discharge from dye-related industries is a significant environmental pollution problem and a concern for human health. Dyes have harmful effects on aquatic organisms due to their toxic properties. One possible solution is using microorganisms for the biological decolorization of textile reactive dyes as an eco-friendly and potentially lucrative alternative to physicochemical processes. Therefore, this study isolated an effective dye-decolorizing yeast from mangrove soil samples in Thailand and investigated the decolorization efficiency of eight textile reactive dyes under experimental conditions. Yeasts have several advantages over other bacteria and fungi for the biological decolorization of textile reactive dyes, but the number of dye-decolorizing yeasts discovered in mangrove soils remains scarce. The most effective dye-decolorizing yeast, isolate RY21703, showed Remazol Brilliant Blue R (RBBR) decolorization of 37.50±0.07% within 72 h of incubation. This yeast isolate was genetically and phylogenetically identified as Candida sp. strain RY21703 and produced 0.97±0.08 U/mL of crude laccase activity, an essential enzyme in dye decolorization mechanisms. Candida sp. strain RY21703 showed strong decolorization efficiency after 72 h of incubation in all azo-reactive dyes, ranging from 27.32±3.34% (CI Reactive Orange 122) to 61.45±1.43% (CI Reactive Green 19). This strain also decolorized phthalocyanine reactive dye (CI Reactive Blue 21) by 60.71%. Findings suggested that this mangrove yeast can be used for the biological decolorization of dyeing wastewater.
Biodiversity value of tree vegetation in Rainbow Forest Biosite, Ijen Geopark, East Java, Indonesia
Authors: SULISTIYOWATI HARI , HASANAH ELA APRILIYANTI , SIDDIQ ARIF MOHAMMAD , RATNASARI TRI , DEWI NILASARI , KURNIANTO AGUNG SIH
Published: August 2024

Abstract. Sulistiyowati H, Hasanah EA, Siddiq AM, Ratnasari T, Dewi N, Kurnianto AS. 2024. Biodiversity value of tree vegetation in Rainbow Forest Biosite, Ijen Geopark, East Java, Indonesia. Biodiversitas 25: 2670-2678. Biodiversity value representing the monetary estimation of the ecological value (ecoval) of species composing a forest is often applied for ecosystem change assessment. Tree community in Rainbow Forest Biosite (RFB) or Biosite Hutan Pelangi, Ijen Geopark, East Java, Indonesia was planted in 1937 and has experienced significant regrowth and changes over time by replacing one another until a mature forest becomes established. Yet, no empirical work has been done to assess the biodiversity value in RFB. Therefore, this study aims to provide a comprehensive estimation of the ecological value of tree vegetation in the RFB at Ijen Geopark. As many as 100 plots with size of 10×10 m each were established to acquire structural data of tree vegetation. Semi-destructive method was used to collect functional data on tree carbon. The result shows that RFB comprises 21 families, 34 genera, and 43 species. This forest has high diversity with dominant tree species are Trevesia sundaica Miq. and Dendrocnide stimulans (L.fil.) Chew due to the large number of individual and area coverage. Tree vegetation in RFB has a total basal area of 330 m2/ha and a total volume of 4,171.01 m3/ha, equivalent to an ecoval 182,439,286,595 IDR/ha in monetary terms. Three species including Agathis dammara (Lamb.) Rich. & A.Rich. and Cedrela odorata L., have unique existence, while others are quite unique (88.37%). Tree growth in RFB sequesters approximately 9,773.30 Mg CO2eq/ha while storing 873.17 Mg C/ha and producing 7,105.19 Mg O2eq/ha, equivalent to an ecoval of 11,401,417,827 IDR/ha. In total, the combined structural and functional biodiversity value of the explored vegetation is estimated to be 193,840,704,423 IDR/ha. By assigning this biodiversity value to RFB, authorities should focus on designing and implementing policies to maintain the existing tree species composition naturally and prevent deforestation.
The potential of indigenous Bacillus sp. BT3.1 as an antifungal biopesticide against the plant pathogen Fusarium oxysporum
Authors: NAFIDIASTRI FARAH AISYAH , LOLITA NATASYA THESSA , RIQINA HANA SHAFIYAH , AURORA BELLA ZEZARI , GERALDI ALMANDO , NURHARIYATI TRI , SUPRIYANTO AGUS , NI’MATUZAHROH NI’MATUZAHROH , FATIMAH FATIMAH , SALAMUN SALAMUN
Published: August 2024

Abstract. Nafidiastri FA, Lolita NT, Riqina HS, Aurora BZ, Geraldi A, Nurhariyati T, Supriyanto A, Ni’matuzahroh, Fatimah, Salamun. 2024. The potential of indigenous Bacillus sp. BT3.1 as an antifungal biopesticide against the plant pathogen Fusarium oxysporum. Biodiversitas 25: 2679-2686. Biosurfactants are green surfactants that bacteria can produce, one of which is Bacillus. This genus can produce lipopeptide-type biosurfactants, namely surfactin, that can inhibit the growth of fungal pathogens. This research aims to determine the biosurfactant activity on molasses substrates and the antifungal activity of isolate BT3.1 against Fusarium oxysporum. The biosurfactant activity test method tested hemolytic activity using the spot method, surface tension analysis, and emulsification activity. In addition, an antifungal activity test was also carried out using the swab method. Characterization of isolate BT3.1 was carried out macroscopically and microscopically. The macroscopic characteristics of isolate BT3.1 show that bacteria from the genus Bacillus are moderate in size, white, irregular with serrate colony edges, shiny raised elevations, and a shiny surface texture. Microscopic characteristics of the isolate showed Gram-positive bacteria with oval-shaped endospores in the center. Based on the results of the biosurfactant activity test, isolate BT3.1 showed beta-type hemolysis activity, reduced surface tension by 23.3 mN/m on distilled water and 12 mN/m on NB media, and produced an emulsion activity value of around 52%. The results of the production of crude extract of BT3.1 isolate on 2, 4, and 6% molasses substrates showed optimal biosurfactant activity at a concentration of 4% with an incubation time of 48 hours. The antifungal activity of isolate BT3.1 showed that 80% inhibited the growth of Fusarium oxysporum, so the indigenous bacteria Bacillus sp. BT-3.1 has the potential to be developed as a raw material candidate for antifungal biopesticides against the plant pathogen Fusarium oxysporum.
Species diversity of Asteraceae in Gayo Highlands, Bener Meriah District, Aceh Province, Indonesia
Authors: PUSPA VIVERA RUSELLI , ZUMAIDAR ZUMAIDAR , NURDIN NURDIN , FITMAWATI FITMAWATI
Published: August 2024

Abstract. Puspa VR, Zumaidar, Nurdin, Fitmawati. 2024. Species diversity of Asteraceae in Gayo Highlands, Bener Meriah District, Aceh Province, Indonesia. Biodiversitas 25: 2828-2837. Asteraceae flourishes in the Gayo Highlands of the Bener Meriah District, Aceh Province, Indonesia despite being frequently overlooked due to its classification as a wild plant. There has been no comprehensive documentation of the non-cultivated Asteraceae species indigenous to this location. Thus, this study endeavored to elucidate the diversity of the Asteraceae species in the Gayo Highlands. Data on Asteraceae diversity were amassed using the quadrat method across eight sub-districts, encompassing abandoned land and roadside areas. The composition of species was scrutinized through the Important Value Index (IVI) and the diversity index was quantified utilizing the Shannon-Wiener index. The results revealed 13 species of Asteraceae comprising a total of 9,780 individual specimens, including Ageratum conyzoides L., Bidens pilosa L., Acmella uliginosa (Sw.) Cass., Crassocephalum crepidioides (Benth.) S. Moore., Galinsoga parviflora Cav., Erigeron sumatrensis Retz., Sonchus oleraceus L., Synedrella nodiflora (L.) Gaertn., Gerbera jamesonii Adlam., Sphagneticola trilobata (L.) Pruski., Emilia sonchifolia (L.), Tridax procumbens L., and Youngia japonica (L.) DC. Ageratum conyzoides registered the highest IVI at 143.91, whilst S. oleraceus had the lowest at 3.53. According to the Shannon-Wiener index, the diversity of the Asteraceae in the Gayo Highlands is denoted as low (?=1.69). This exploration provides contemporary insights into the Asteraceae diversity within the Gayo Highlands, serving as a valuable reference for both researchers and interested stakeholders.
Production and diversity analysis of cellulases from Anoxybacillus genus
Authors: SANJAYA RAHMAT EKO , PUSPANINGSIH NI NYOMAN TRI , ROHMAN ALI , RAHMASARI HAKIKI , ILLIAS ROSLI MD. , JANTARIT NAWEE , FUJIYAMA KAZUHITO , PRATAMA ANDRE , KHAIRUNNISA FATIHA
Published: August 2024

Abstract. Sanjaya RE, Puspaningsih NNT, Rohman A, Rahmasari H, Illias RM, Jantarit N, Fujiyama K, Pratama A, Khairunnisa F. 2024. Production and diversity analysis of cellulases from Anoxybacillus genus. Biodiversitas 25: 2705-2718. Bioconversion of cellulose into sustainable renewable resources of oligosaccharides and glucose requires cellulase action. Genomic sequences of Anoxybacillus cellulases are available in GenBank databases, but no information about their biochemical properties. Anoxybacillus flavithermus TP-01 is a thermophilic, facultatively anaerobic, cellulase-producing bacterium isolated from the mountain of Gunung Pancar hot springs, Bogor, Indonesia. This study aimed to characterize the cellulase produced by Anoxybacillus flavithermus TP-01, a local Indonesian isolate. This cellulase was characterized and the diversity analysis on biochemical properties and structural characteristics was done by in silico approaches. SOPMA, SWISS-MODEL, I-TASSER, ProSA, and SAVES were used for computational analysis on physicochemical characterization, phylogenetic construction, functional analysis, multiple sequence alignment, and secondary-tertiary structure prediction. Physicochemical analysis showed pI<7, indicating acidic property for these proteins. Furthermore, the proteins were thermostable and hydrophilic, as proved by their relatively high aliphatic index and negative GRAVY values. The five sequence motifs harbored a conserved domain of the M42 peptidase/endoglucanase family. Alpha helix was the predominant secondary structure, and the tertiary structure fulfilled the structural quality criteria of QMEAN4, ERRAT, Ramachandran plot, and Z-score. Structural comparison between the template structure and the models revealed significant differences in the loop sections. This study identified a potentially thermostable cellulase of Anoxybacillus flavithermus TP-01, and provided new insights of the physicochemical, functional, and explores the structure-function relationship of cellulase from Anoxybacillus genus based on in silico data.
Fish diversity in the Nong Leng Sai Wetland, Phayao Province, Northern Thailand, after deep-water dredging
Authors: TUNCHAROEN SIRILUCK , MANETAM KANOKPHON , PORNPUANG SITIPORN , CHAISAN WARARITH , PANPROMMIN DUTRUDI , SOONTHORNPRASIT KANYANAT , PITAKPOL SANTIWAT
Published: August 2024

Abstract. Tuncharoen S, Manetam K, Pornpuang S, Chaisan W, Panprommin D, Soonthornprasit K, Pitakpol S. 2024. Fish diversity in the Nong Leng Sai Wetland, Phayao Province, Northern Thailand, after deep-water dredging. Biodiversitas 25: 2738-2746. This study aimed to explore changes in the diversity of fish species in the Nong Leng Sai Wetland, Mae Chai District, Phayao Province, Northern Thailand, after just completed deep-water dredging while shallow-water dredging is in progress. Therefore, three different gill net mesh sizes collected fish specimens from January to July 2022. The results showed that 25 species belong to 23 genera, 13 families from 7 orders, and 21 native and 4 introduced fish species. The fish comprised of the miscellaneous group was the most composed by weight and number, accounting for 45.5% and 52%, respectively, followed by the carp, 38.6% by weight and 45.6% by number. The fish diversity after dredging has decreased, including species and quantity, compared to the diversity reported before. Physical changes in the Nong Leng Sai Wetland resulted from deep water dredging, including increasing water depth, more water storage volume, increased turbidity, and lack of fish shelter and natural food, affecting the diversity of fish species. Furthermore, dredging has stimulated the recovery of aquatic ecosystems regarding water quality, habitat of aquatic animals, and appropriate natural food, which is important for increasing the diversity of fish species and quantities.
Food source diversity and honey production in stingless bee meliponiculture, Ogan Komering Ulu Timur, South Sumatra, Indonesia
Authors: RAHMAD BENI , DAMIRI NURHAYATI , HANAFIAH ZAZILI , ADRIANI DESSY , HANUM LAILA
Published: August 2024

Abstract. Rahmad B, Damiri N, Hanafiah Z, Adriani D, Hanum L. 2024. Food source diversity and honey production in stingless bee meliponiculture, Ogan Komering Ulu Timur, South Sumatra, Indonesia. Biodiversitas 25: 2747-2756. This research, conducted with meticulous care, aims to collect data on the diversity of food source plants and analyze vegetation, honey production, and quality in stingless bee cultivation (Meliponiculture) in East Ogan Komering Ulu District (OKUT), South Sumatra Province, Indonesia. The research was carried out using a comprehensive survey method with a qualitative and quantitative approach. The qualitative methods record the type of stingless bee food sources, while qualitative methods are used for honey quality. Direct observation, questionnaires, and in-depth interviews with beekeepers were carried out to collect data on honey production. The investigation involved observing food-supply plants in the meliponiculture area designated as the research site. Meliponiculture area location is the presence of beekeepers actively engaged in producing honey. The results of the inventory of food plant types at the meliponiculture location showed that the composition of food source plants consisted of six species of forestry plants, three species of plantation plants, seven species of MPTs, one species of crop plant, eight species of home garden and four species of shrubs. The planting pattern of plantation and forestry possesses the highest honey yield, which is 360 kg per year. Cultivated honey products have good quality and comply with Indonesian National Standards (SNI), which include organoleptic tests and laboratory tests, with results: Water content 27.14% w/w, reducing sugar content 62.05% w/w, degree of acidity 101.64 ml NaOH Kg, Total solids insoluble in water 0,066% w/w, Ash Content 0.24% w/w, and acidity degree (pH) 3.25.
Composition and abundance of cockroaches in traditional markets of Purwokerto City, Indonesia
Authors: AMBARNINGRUM TRISNOWATI BUDI , WIDHIONO IMAM , KUSMINTARSIH ENDANG SRIMURNI , PRATIKNYO HERY , HARYANTO TRISNO , HASYIFAH FATHIMAH NURFITHRI
Published: August 2024

Abstract. Ambarningrum TB, Widhiono I, Kusmintarsih ES, Pratiknyo H, Haryanto T, Hasyifah FN. 2024. Composition and abundance of cockroaches in traditional markets of Purwokerto City, Indonesia. Biodiversitas 25: 2773-2779. Markets with high human activity and abundant food are ideal conditions for cockroaches. This study aimed to investigate the composition and abundance of cockroaches infesting three markets in Purwokerto City, Central Java, Indonesia. To achieve this objective a survey method with random sampling used baiting traps and hand collection. The analysis used the Shannon-Wiener index (H'), Evenness index, relative abundance, and density index. The results showed that three cockroach families were identified, namely Blattellidae, Blattidae, and Blaberidae. The cockroaches found in markets 1 and 3 consisted of five species, namely Blattella germanica (Linnaeus, 1767), Periplaneta americana (Linnaeus, 1758), Blatta lateralis (Serville, 1838), Nauphoeta cinerea (Olivier, 1789), and Pycnoscelus surinamensis (Linnaeus, 1758), while in Market 2 there were only three species, namely B. germanica, P. americana, and N. cinerea. The total population were 2467, 81, and 3627 individuals in Market 1, 2, and 3 respectively. The B. germanica predominated in Markets 1 and 2, while N. cinerea dominated in Market 3. Furthermore, density levels varied across markets, showing differing infestation intensities. The study explained the importance of integrated pest management strategies and regular monitoring to control cockroaches population effectively. These results provide valuable insights for local pest control efforts aimed at maintaining hygiene and health standards in market environments.
Dietary habits of fishing cats in a human-dominated wetland in Coastal Thailand
Authors: WONGSON THAKSIN , KHAEWPHAKDEE SUPAWAT , MONGKONSIN WIROON , SERIEYS LAUREL E. K. , WONG WAI-MING , YINDEE MARNOCH , PATTANARANGSAN RATTAPAN , SUKSAVATE WARONG , PROMKUNTOD PONGSATORN , KLAKHAENG CHAIWAT , SUKMASUANG RONGLARP
Published: August 2024

Abstract. Wongson T, Khaewphakdee S, Mongkonsin W, Serieys LEK, Wong W-M, Yindee M, Pattanarangsan R, Suksavate W, Promkuntod P, Klakhaeng C, Sukmasuang R. 2024. Dietary habits of fishing cats in a human-dominated wetland in Coastal Thailand. Biodiversitas 25: 2788-2797. Fishing cats, intimately connected to wetland habitats, face an escalating threat from human activities and environmental change. With its significant findings, this study offers a comprehensive insight into the dietary habits of fishing cats in a human-dominated wetland in coastal Thailand. By examining the scats of 192 fishing cats (Prionailurus viverrinus Bennett 1833) and the remains of 328 prey items, we detailed the fishing cat's diet and assessed its seasonality. Consequently, we identified 16 prey species consumed by fishing cats during the study period. The primary prey was fish, followed by rodents, birds, Indo-Chinese rat snakes (Ptyas korros (Hermann Schlegel 1837)), insects, crabs, and snails. The most crucial prey was the climbing perch (Anabas testudineus Bloch 1792) (n=69), followed by bandicoot rats (Bandicota indica Bechstein, 1800) (n=54), domestic chicken (Gallus gallus Linnaeus 1758) (n=48), and snakehead murrel (Channa striata Bloch 1793) (n=38). The niche breadth index indicated the highest specialization during the summer, while the dietary diversity index was 0.44, 0.52, and 0.38 during the summer, rainy, and winter seasons, respectively. Seasonal variations in dietary composition were not statistically significant. The niche overlap index was 0.95 between the summer and the rainy season, 0.91 between the rainy season and winter, and 0.87 between the summer and winter. These findings, with their direct implications for the conservation of fishing cats, highlight the urgent need for effective land-use management in species preservation.
Medicinal plants used in the management of cancer and other diseases in Swat District, Pakistan
Authors: ALI SHUJAT , MUNAZIR MEHMOODA
Published: August 2024

Abstract. Ali S, Munazir M. 2024. Medicinal?plants used?in the management of?cancer?and other diseases in Swat District, Pakistan. Asian J Nat Prod Biochem 22: 8-18. The provision of healthcare in impoverished nations is significantly influenced by traditional medicine. It has been revealed that many cancer patients use traditional medicine, either as a complementary therapy or as a primary treatment. Among noncontagious infections, cancer is one of the main causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. This study aimed to determine the plants that people in the Swat regions, Pakistan used to treat cancer through traditional medicine. Interviewing consenting individuals about the ethno-medicinal plants they use to treat cancer was done using a structured questionnaire. Also, an assessment of the literature published on the mentioned plants was done. Questions about plants used to cure cancer, parts of plants used, the form of cancer cured, therapeutic applications of the plants, and the preparation and administration of the plant parts were posed to the practitioners and the locals. About 12 plants in all, comprising five herbs, three climbers, three trees, and one shrub, were used to treat cancer. About 50% of plants contain flavonoids, compounds with various anticancer properties. Fruits accounted for 41% of all the parts used in the documented species, with leaves coming in second at 25%, bark at 17%, roots at 17%, and the entire plant at 8%. However, the highest RFC was shown by Vitis vinifera L. (0.56), the lowest was shown by Viola biflora L. (0.03), while the highest FL was shown by Hedera nepalensis K.Koch (83), and the lowest was shown by V. biflora (30). According to the study, the gathered plants were used to treat a variety of malignancies: general tumors were treated by 75% of the plants, breast cancer was treated by 17%, and lung cancer was treated by 8%. The reported uses of the medicinal plants from prior ethno-pharmacological studies conducted in Swat regions align well with the traditional uses of the plants mentioned in this study. Therefore, if sufficiently investigated, the Swat district's indigenous herbs used to treat cancer may play key roles in searching for and creating anticancer medications.
Ethanol leaf extract of Alchornea cordifolia (Euphorbiaceae) effects on reproductive dysfunctions in streptozotocin-induced diabetic male Wistar rats
Authors: EJEH SUNDAY AUGUSTINE , ABU HYACINTH ADAKOLE , ONYEYILI PATRICK AZUIBIKE , ABENGA JERRY NGUTOR , ABALAKA SAMSON ENEOJO , ENEFE NDIDI GLORY , EUGIENE ISHAKU
Published: August 2024

Abstract. Ejeh SA, Abu HA, Onyeyili PA, Abenga JN, Abalaka SE, Enefe NG, Eugiene I. 2024. Ethanol leaf extract of Alchornea cordifolia (Euphorbiaceae) effects on reproductive dysfunctions in streptozotocin-induced diabetic male Wistar rats. Asian J Nat Prod Biochem 22: 35-42. Diabetes and some of its treatment agents reportedly induce male reproductive dysfunction in male Wistar rats. Therefore, the study investigated the therapeutic effects of ethanol leaf extract of Alchornea cordifolia (Schumach. & Thonn.) Müll. Arg. on diabetic male Wistar rats. Twenty-five male Wistar rats were used, and 50 mg/kg freshly prepared streptozotocin in cool citrate buffer single intraperitoneal injection was used to induce diabetes mellitus. The rats were grouped into 5 of 5 rats each. Group 1 was normal + distilled water; group II was diabetic untreated; group III was diabetic + 100 mg/kg metformin HCl; and IV and V rats were diabetic and received 100 and 200 mg/kg of the extract orally, respectively. Treatment was done for 28 days; after that, reproductive parameters such as extrapyramidal sperm parameters (sperm motility, count, concentrations, viability, morphology, and acrosome integrity) and hormonal assay (FSH, LH, and Testosterone) were evaluated using a standard protocol. Testicular and epididymal histopathological changes were analyzed using standard procedure. The results revealed a marked impairment in all the parameters evaluated in the untreated diabetic group. However, groups exposed to the ethanol leaf extract of A. cordifolia recorded a significant (p <0.05) improvement in the above-mentioned reproductive parameters, including the restorations of the collapsed epididymal tubules observed in the diabetic untreated group. Therefore, the ethanol leaf extract of A. cordifolia can potentially facilitate and restore reproductive dysfunctions associated with diabetes mellitus complications, hence a possible alternative to synthetic antidiabetic agents.
Antibacterial activity against multidrug-resistant Salmonella, toxicity and biochemical effects of Moringa oleifera leaf extracts in mice
Authors: NGEMENYA MOSES NJUTAIN , ITOE LAMSON OTTOTOH , AWAH LAUPY ANNE , ASONGANA RODOLPH , NDIP RITA AYUK
Published: August 2024

Abstract. Ngemenya MN, Itoe LO, Awah LA, Asongana R, Ndip RA. 2024. Antibacterial activity against multidrug-resistant Salmonella, toxicity and biochemical effects of Moringa oleifera leaf extracts in mice. Asian J Nat Prod Biochem 22: 43-50. The emergence of multidrug resistance has significantly compromised the treatment of Salmonella infections. The anti-Salmonella activity, toxicity, and biochemical effects of Moringa oleifera Lam. leaf crude extracts were studied by disc diffusion and microdilution against Multidrug-Resistant (MDR) strains. Cytotoxicity was investigated on monkey kidney epithelial cells (LLCMK2) and acute toxicity in BALB/c mice. Both hexane (MOHEX) and methanol (MOMET) extracts produced small zones of inhibition of 8mm at 1 mg and 2 mg per disc, indicating weak activity, but the minimum inhibitory concentration showed high (0.0625 mg/mL) to low activity (10 mg/mL) activity. No minimum bactericidal concentration was recorded at the concentrations tested. The 50% cytotoxic concentration (CC50) for methanol and hexane extracts were 2524 µg/mL and 5004 µg/mL, respectively, indicating a low risk of toxicity. No mortality or adverse effects were recorded in the acute toxicity test. Both extracts had no significant effects (p < 0.05) on renal function and one liver enzyme (alanine aminotransferase), but MOMET significantly increased aspartate aminotransferase (p = 0.04), suggesting possible liver toxicity. The study shows that M. oleifera leaves possess bacteriostatic activity against multidrug-resistant Salmonella and are non-toxic; hence, it is a potential alternative treatment against multidrug-resistant Salmonella. Further studies of fractions and pure natural products of the extracts should be pursued.
Reconciliation in John Winthrop's History of New England
Authors: McKeown Adam N.
Published: August 2024

Abstract: The prominence of dissent and the reconciliation of dissent in John Winthrop's History of New England serves as a useful reminder that Massachusetts was not as monolithic as is often thought and that colony's ability to cope with differences of religious opinion was important to the way it represented itself. Instance of reconciliation in the History also have a face-saving effect in that they cast the colonial government as a reasonable and patient judge of permissible versus intolerable dissent while, at the same time, casting irreconcilable difference as unreasonable and self-interested, and therefore punishable. This essay studies how reconciliation events in the History work rhetorically to validate the colonial government's power both by displaying its capacity for tolerance and by defining the reasonable limits of what is tolerable.
John Marrant's Nova Scotia Journal Writes Displaced Communities
Authors: Bohls Elizabeth A.
Published: August 2024

Abstract: John Marrant was a Methodist missionary in Nova Scotia from 1785 to 1789, serving Black Loyalist refugees settled there by the British Empire after its North American defeat. His journal, published in 1790, records numerous occasions when he preached, as well as helping settlers petition the colonial government for supplies. Scholars have explored Marrant's theology as revealed in the Journal . I shift the focus toward communalism, examining the ways it incorporates traces of communities of displaced people in two genres: the extempore sermon and the petition. Each bridges the oral and the written and is grounded in a community or collectivity. Marrant noted his hearers' responses to his sermons in a shorthand, which I examine; I also draw from a published sermon he preached in Boston on his way back to England. Lacking the Nova Scotia petitions, I turn to surviving petitions by Black Loyalists who traveled to Sierra Leone, as well as Marrant's descriptions of his interactions with the petitioning Nova Scotia settlers.
Converts, Bible Women, and Girl Graduates: Emerging Visions of Indian Christian Womanhood in Krupabai Satthianadhan’s Saguna (1889–1890)
Authors: Waha Kristen Bergman
Published: August 2024

ABSTRACT: Krupabai Satthianadhan’s Saguna (1889–1890) is an autobiographical novel by one of the first Indian women to attend medical school in Madras. Saguna is a New Woman narrative of spiritual and social development for both its protagonist and the emerging Indian Christian community. Written in English, it was serialized in the Madras Christian College Magazine , a periodical reaching British, Anglo-Indian, and Western-educated Indian readerships regionally, nationally, and in Christian missionary networks throughout the Empire. Satthianadhan investigates the origins of Indian Christian womanhood in Indian Christian conversion narratives and professional work, especially the mission-sponsored Bible Woman. Critiquing the ways in which female converts and Bible Women retain limited personal agency or occupy lowly positions in the community, Satthianadhan presents her protagonist as a New Woman who draws on the Bible Woman’s example of bold preaching and her own liberal education to ground her beliefs about society and religion in independent, rational thought. Satthianadhan promotes Indian women’s education reform as a movement to be embraced by the Indian Christian community and as a means through which its women can join theological conversations and champion social reform efforts in the larger, male-dominated, Indian public sphere.
Redundant Women as Reformers in Gaskell’s Cranford and My Lady Ludlow
Authors: Fitzpatrick Reilly L.
Published: August 2024

ABSTRACT: Elizabeth Gaskell’s protagonists are often categorized as redundant, particularly spinsters and widows. Such characters potentially complicate Gaskell’s feminist status, seemingly embodying the repressive stereotypes of Victorian femininity. But rather than portraying them as unproductive, ridiculous, and marginal, Gaskell creates characters who directly counter the idea of redundancy. Her spinsters and widows are reformers who catalyze significant social change and redefine the power of elderly, unmarried women against patriarchal paradigms. The shift from redundancy to reform is especially evident in Cranford (1853) and My Lady Ludlow (1858), which cast Miss Matty and Lady Ludlow as influential social figures who not only challenge tradition but reject its intolerance by working to rebuild their communities around a more inclusive model based on morality and relationality.
Bidirectional in-silico clearing approach for deep refractive-index tomography using a sparsely sampled transmission matrix
Authors: Yasuhiko Osamu , Takeuchi Kozo
Published: August 2024

Optical diffraction tomography (ODT) enables the label-free volumetric imaging of biological specimens by mapping their three-dimensional refractive index (RI) distribution. However, the depth of imaging achievable is restricted due to spatially inhomogeneous RI distributions that induce multiple scattering. In this study, we introduce a novel ODT technique named bidirectional in-silico clearing RI tomography. This method incorporates both forward and reversed in-silico clearing. For the reversed in-silico clearing, we have integrated an ODT reconstruction framework with a transmission matrix approach, which enables RI reconstruction and wave backpropagation from the illumination side without necessitating modifications to the conventional ODT setup. Furthermore, the framework employs a sparsely sampled transmission matrix, significantly reducing the requisite number of measurements and computational expenses. Employing this proposed technique, we successfully imaged a spheroid with a thickness of 263 µm, corresponding to 11.4 scattering mean free paths. This method was successfully applied to various biological specimens, including liver and colon spheroids, demonstrating consistent imaging performance across samples with varied morphologies.
HDB-Net: hierarchical dual-branch network for retinal layer segmentation in diseased OCT images
Authors: Chen Yu , Zhang XueHe , Yang Jiahui , Han Gang , Zhang He , Lai MingZhu , Zhao Jie
Published: August 2024

Optical coherence tomography (OCT) retinal layer segmentation is a critical procedure of the modern ophthalmic process, which can be used for diagnosis and treatment of diseases such as diabetic macular edema (DME) and multiple sclerosis (MS). Due to the difficulties of low OCT image quality, highly similar retinal interlayer morphology, and the uncertain presence, shape and size of lesions, the existing algorithms do not perform well. In this work, we design an HDB-Net network for retinal layer segmentation in diseased OCT images, which solves this problem by combining global and detailed features. First, the proposed network uses a Swin transformer and Res50 as a parallel backbone network, combined with the pyramid structure in UperNet, to extract global context and aggregate multi-scale information from images. Secondly, a feature aggregation module (FAM) is designed to extract global context information from the Swin transformer and local feature information from ResNet by introducing mixed attention mechanism. Finally, the boundary awareness and feature enhancement module (BA-FEM) is used to extract the retinal layer boundary information and topological order from the low-resolution features of the shallow layer. Our approach has been validated on two public datasets, and Dice scores were 87.61% and 92.44, respectively, both outperforming other state-of-the-art technologies.
Interaction of light with subwavelength particles: revealing the physics of the electric dipole moment in the classical scattering problem
Authors: Akimov Yuriy A.
Published: August 2024

Scattering problems are the classical tools for modeling of light-matter interaction. In this paper, we investigate the solution of the dipole scattering problem under different incident radiations. In particular, we compare the two cases of incident plane and spherically incoming fields. With this comparison, we disclose the two distinct groups of current-sourced and current-free scattered fields, which exhibit independent dynamics and dissimilar effects of the scatterer. We demonstrate how these fields by interfering each other make the resultant electric dipole moment of the scattered fields resonant and, thus, give rise to all the spectral features observed in the classical solution for dipole scattering of light.
Intracavity-pumped, noncritical CdSe OPO operating at 100  Hz
Authors: Wang Li , Chen Weidong , Divliansky Ivan B. , Pasiskevicius Valdas , Mhibik Oussama , Moelster Kjell M. , Zukauskas Andrius , Petrov Valentin
Published: August 2024

Spectral narrowing of the first stage signal wave in a cascade optical parametric oscillator (OPO) using a volume Bragg grating produced narrowband ∼0.6-mJ idler pulses at 9.245 µm from the second stage based on CdSe at a repetition rate of 100 Hz. The CdSe crystal is pumped intracavity by the signal wave from the periodically poled KTiOPO4 based first stage, and both stages operate under noncritical phase-matching conditions. The ∼8-ns-long mid-IR output pulses have a spectral bandwidth of 8.4cm−1. An overall quantum conversion efficiency of 14.2% from 1.064 µm is achieved with a simple, compact, and robust all-solid-state design.
Self-powered γ-In2Se3/p-Si heterojunction for photodetection: exploring humidity and light intensity dependent photoresponse
Authors: Hase Yogesh , Prasad Mohit , Shinde Pratibha , Shah Shruti , Punde Ashvini , Doiphode Vidya , Rahane Swati , Ladhane Somnath , Kale Dhanashri , Waghmare Ashish , Bade Bharat , Patole Shashikant P. , Jadkar Sandesh
Published: August 2024

In this study, high-quality γ-In2Se3 thin films were successfully deposited on p-Si substrates via the RF sputtering technique. Structural characterization using XRD and Raman spectroscopy confirmed the formation of the hexagonal γ-phase of In2Se3 film. FESEM analysis revealed the presence of small, homogeneous, and well-defined grains in the prepared γ-In2Se3 film. EDS analysis confirmed the stoichiometric composition (∼ 2:3) of the In2Se3 films. XPS further validated the presence of In, Se, and Si elements in the deposited films. Band gap analysis using UV-visible spectroscopy yielded a value of 1.96 eV for the γ-In2Se3 film. Integration of γ-In2Se3 with p-type Si enhanced photoresponsivity of 47.9 mA/W, photosensitivity of 282, and photo detectivity of 8.45 × 1010 Jones. The self-powered γ-In2Se3/p-Si heterojunction-based photodetector exhibited rapid rise time attributed to the type II band alignment structure, facilitating efficient electron-hole pair separation and minimizing recombination. Furthermore, humidity and light intensity-dependent photodetector properties of γ-In2Se3/p-Si heterojunction photodetector were also investigated. An increase in photocurrent from 271 to 291 µA was observed with rising humidity levels, indicating the device’s sensitivity to humidity variations. Furthermore, light intensity dependence studies revealed a linear relationship between photocurrent and incident light intensity, demonstrating the device’s reliable response across various illumination levels.
High uniformity Bessel beams with angle-controllable steering
Authors: Zhai Zhongsheng , Huang Jinxia , Yu Xin , Lv Qinghua , Offiong Ndifreke , Liu Da
Published: August 2024

Bessel beams with controllable output angles and uniform intensity distribution along the propagation direction have critical applications in many fields. This paper introduces a novel method to generate high uniformity, high signal-to-noise ratio, and angle-controllable Bessel beams by combining a Fresnel zone plate (FZP) with an axicon. An apodizing phase axicon with an ideally fitted profile is used, with a Gaussian beam as the light source. The fitting profile is then optimized through a genetic algorithm (GA) and an unconstrained nonlinear optimization algorithm (UNMA). The combination of the optimized apodizing phase axicon and FZP achieves the uniform distribution of axial intensity and the control of Bessel beam angle by changing the center of FZP. The results demonstrate the effectiveness of this method, showing that it can achieve arbitrary angle control within the range of 4.0742°, with a resolution of 0.0008° and a uniformity of 94.66%. Furthermore, this method can be extended to multiple Bessel beams, enabling the angle control of various Bessel beams.
Propagation dynamics and radiation forces of circular Bessel Gaussian beams carrying power-cotangent-phase vortices
Authors: Yu Jian , Tong Shandong , Zhang Zhe , Long Huihong , Luo Yuan , Zheng Peichao , Bai Zhiyong
Published: August 2024

In this paper, the circular Bessel Gaussian beams (CBGBs) carrying power-cotangent-phase vortices are firstly introduced, whose propagation dynamics are explored theoretically and experimentally. The number of spiral lobes, rotation direction, rotation angle, and shape of the new type of beam can be flexibly modulated by controlling multiple parameters of power-cotangent-phase vortices. Accordingly, the effect of multiple beam parameters on abruptly autofocusing ability is quantified and compared by using the K-value curve that is described by ratio Im/I0, where Im and I0 correspond to the maximum intensities at different propagation distance and the initial plane, respectively. The physical mechanism of intensity distribution variation depended on the propagation distance and power-cotangent-phase parameters are also demonstrated convincingly by employing the Poynting vector. In addition, the advantages and applications of the proposed beam as a tool for the Rayleigh particle manipulation are analyzed theoretically. It is expected that the introduced beam can be useful for extending applications of optical vortices, particularly for multiple particle manipulation.
Ultra-sensitive DNA detection with single-base mismatch resolution using a tapered thin-diameter photonic crystal fiber interferometer
Authors: Wan Hongdan , Chen Xinyu , Zhang Shutong , Xiong Jinxin , Jiang Weifeng , Liu Haozhuo , Wan Cheng , Wang Jingli , Xiao Ying , Wu Zhuojin , Chao Jie
Published: August 2024

A tapered thin-diameter photonic crystal fiber interferometer (TTD-PCFI) biosensor is proposed and demonstrated for DNA hybridization detection with an ultra-low limit of detection (LoD) and high specificity. The TTD-PCFI is fabricated by arc-discharged melting and adiabatic tapering, with a lower loss and stronger evanescent optical field. The fabricated TTD-PCFI with a diameter of 8.63 µm achieves a high refractive index sensitivity of 3842.5 nm/RIU. DNA hybridization detection of concentration ranging from 1 fM to 1 pM is achieved, with a sensitivity of 632 pm/lg(fM). The measured LoD is as low as 410 aM. Single-base mismatch detection of 25-base target single-stranded DNA is also achieved. The proposed label-free DNA biosensor has the advantages of the ultra-low LoD, high specificity, and real-time detection, which has great application prospects in the fields of disease diagnosis, microbial detection, and environmental science.
Interception force assisted optical pulling of a dipole nanoparticle in a single plane wave
Authors: Lu Liangchen , Wen Jiquan , Lu Menglong , Ding Ping , Liu Jinyang , Zheng Hongxia , Chen Huajin
Published: August 2024

The optical pulling force is generally believed to originate from the recoil force due to the simultaneous excitation of multipoles in the particle, which overcomes the interception force contributing to the optical pushing force. However, we show that the interception force can induce optical pulling force on a small isotropic spherical particle with gain in a uniform electromagnetic plane wave, in which multipole excitation is negligible within the dipole regime. Based on the multipole expansion theory, a rigorous analytical expression is derived for optical force acting on a spherical particle of arbitrary size and composition illuminated by a single plane wave, regardless of its polarization. The analytical results show that the interception force, which is typically positive in a conventional dielectric particle under illumination of a single plane wave, undergoes a crossover from positive to negative by introducing appropriate gain into the dipolar dielectric nanoparticle, thereby giving rise to the optical pulling. It’s deserved to be noted that the optical pulling force assisted by the interception force does not weaken in magnitude, in fact, it exhibits a stronger magnitude compared to the optical pushing force experienced by a corresponding conventional dielectric particle.
Nonlinear optical properties of Bi2Se2Te for harmonic mode-locked and broadband Q-switched pulses generation
Authors: Liu Xueyao , Yu Yanfeng , Yu Guangbin , Wang Yubo , Huang Pu , Wang Xing , Si Shuhao , Cheng Chen , Li Dengwang
Published: August 2024

The nonlinear optical properties of bismuth selenium telluride (Bi2Se2Te), a few-layer two-dimensional topological insulator material, have been investigated in this work. An erbium-doped fiber laser (EDFL) based on Bi2Se2Te (BST) nanosheets as saturable absorber (SA) was demonstrated. The BST SA with saturation intensity and modulation depth of 4.96 MW/cm2 and 2.45%, respectively, was obtained by mixing the layered BST nanosheets solution prepared by liquid phase exfoliation with a polyvinyl alcohol solution. On the basis of a 3.81 MHz fundamental repetition rate (RPR), seven types of high-order harmonic mode-locked (HML) at 300.2, 392.7, 424.2, 454.3, 516.9, 547.5 and 611.7 MHz were obtained, corresponding to 79th, 103rd, 111th, 119th, 135th, 144th and 160th harmonics, with the maximum 3-dB spectral width (2.31, 2.55, 2.55, 2.85, 2.96, 2.73 and 2.85 nm) and the narrowest pulse widths (1.11, 1.00, 1.00 ps, 896, 862, 935 and 895 fs), respectively. After reducing the cavity length by removing 30 m of single-mode fiber, a Q-switched operation with a maximum single pulse energy of 29.62 nJ and a tuning range of up to 81.91 kHz was obtained. The experimental results fully demonstrated that BST SA provided an important reference in the design of generating high RPR ultra-short pulses and Q-switched fiber lasers.