bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Combined use of Spirulina platensis and Saccharomyces cerevisiae: Implication on growth, blood profile and intestinal morphology and bacteria of the Indonesian crossbred chickens
Authors: SUGIHARTO SUGIHARTO , ATMAJA BALUH MEDYABRATA , WIDIASTUTI ENDANG , HADIYANTO HADIYANTO
Published: August 2022

Abstract. Sugiharto S, Atmaja BM, Widiastuti E, Hadiyanto H. 2021. Combined use of Spirulina platensis and Saccharomyces cerevisiae: Implication on growth, blood profile and intestinal morphology and bacteria of the Indonesian crossbred chickens. Biodiversitas 23: 160-165. The effects of Spirulina platensis and Saccharomyces cerevisiae on poultry growth and health have long been known. However, no research has been conducted on the combined use of these substances on the Indonesian crossbred chicken (ICC). This study evaluated how the combined use of S. platensis and S. cerevisiae affected ICC growth, blood profile, and intestinal ecology. A total of 288 ICC were separated into three groups, including CONT (basic diet), SP (diet with 0.3% S. platensis), and SPSC (diet with 0.3% S. platensis and 0.2% S. cerevisiae). Blood and intestinal content and segments were taken at week 9, while growth was determined weekly. SP had greater (p<0.05) body weight than CONT, but did not differ from SPSC. In SP, ileal coliform counts were lower (p=0.07) than in CONT. SPSC had lower (p=0.07) caecal Enterobacteriaceae counts than other groups. Blood profile, intestinal morphology, organ weight, and carcass traits did not vary (p>0.05) across the ICC. In conclusion, dietary supplementation of S. platensis improved growth performance and bacterial population of the ICC.
Genetically continuous populations of Striped Snakehead (Channa striata) in the Cingcingguling River fragmented by Sempor Reservoir, Central Java, Indonesia
Authors: SETYANINGRUM NUNING , LESTARI W. , KRISMONO KRISMONO , Nuryanto Agus
Published: August 2022

Abstract. Setyaningrum N, Lestari W, Nuryanto A. 2022. Genetically continuous populations of Striped Snakehead (Channa striata) in the Cingcingguling River fragmented by Sempor Reservoir, Central Java, Indonesia. Biodiversitas 23: 222-230. Cingcingguling River, located in Kebumen District, Central Java Province, Indonesia. The Sempor Reservoir fragments it. The previous study proved the negative impact of the reservoir on positive rheotaxis fish, mainly in genetic constituents between the reservoir and river populations. However, research has not been conducted on the negative rheotaxis fish, such as Channa striata. Assessing population genetic and taxonomic validity study of Striped Snakehead in the Cingcingguling River is an essential effort. Both studies could be done using the cytochrome c oxidase 1 gene. Therefore, this research aims to determine taxonomic status and evaluate the population genetic of C. striata in the Cingcingguling River. The samples were collected at eight sites, inside and outside the reservoir. The used marker was sequenced from 53 individuals, and all specimens showed high identity (98.67% to 100%) and low genetic distances (0.00 to 0.01) to C. striata (KU692421, KU852443, and MG438366). Those values proved that all samples were genetically identified as Channa striata. The vertical genetic distribution analysis demonstrated that C. striata populations are genetically not different along the river. Unlike rheotaxis positive fish phenomena, the reservoir's existence does not cause genetic fragmentation and leads to continuous striped snakehead populations.
Comparative analysis of the leaf architectural characters of Saurauia bontocensis Merr. and Saurauia polysperma (Blanco) Merr. with the application of Digital Image Analysis Software
Authors: DAIPAN BERNARD PETER O. , BUOT JR. INOCENCIO E. , DAIPAN HANNAH MARIEL O.
Published: August 2022

Abstract. Daipan BPO, Buot IE Jr., Daipan HMO. 2022. Comparative analysis of the leaf architectural characters of Saurauia bontocensis Merr. and Saurauia polysperma (Blanco) Merr. with the application of Digital Image Analysis Software. Biodiversitas 23: 3869-3875. Major confusion still exists among several authors concerning the taxonomy of the dagwey plant. This species is economically significant to the Ikalahan tribe of Luzon, Philippines. Several papers claimed that the plant is Saurauia bontocensis, while others stated that it is Saurauia subglabra. Many botanical websites claimed that S. subglabra is synonymous with S. polysperma, while another article distinguished S. subglabra from S. polysperma. Thus, to help resolve the taxonomic ambiguities, this paper performed a comparative analysis of the leaf architectural characters of S. bontocensis and S. polysperma with the aid of digital image analysis software and cluster analysis. Results revealed that the blade characters alone, delineate the two species, particularly, in terms of the laminar size, shape, symmetry, leaf L:W ratio, base and apex angle, and base shape. Additionally, the leaf venation characters delineate the two species, specifically, on the 2º to 5º vein categories, 2º vein angle, 3º vein course, 3º vein angle to 1º, areolation, freely ending ultimate veins, marginal ultimate venation, and leaf rank. Generally, S. bontocensis have larger, longer, and wider leaves compared with the S. polysperma. The leaf architecture analysis performed in this paper produced a very promising result in differentiating the two Saurauia species and could be used to address some of the taxonomic confusion of these species. The study indicated that S. bontocensis and S. polysperma are two distinct species. Moreover, the use of digital image analysis software was very helpful in the computations of the various blade characters, particularly the digital herbarium exsiccate in the absence of actual leaf samples.
Identification and characterization of calcite producing bacteria isolated from soils in West Java, Indonesia
Authors: SUGATA MARCELIA , ARVIANA NERISSA , TAMPUBOLON LASTRI , WIDJAJAKUSUMA JACK , VICTOR HANS , JAN TAN TJIE
Published: August 2022

Abstract. Sugata M, Arviana N, Tampubolon L, Widjajakusuma J, Victor H, Jan TT. 2022. Identification and characterization of calcite producing bacteria isolated from soils in West Java, Indonesia. Biodiversitas 23: 3921-3927. Bio-mediated soil improvement as an interdisciplinary application of geotechnical engineering and microbiology has gained attention due to its environmentally friendly and sustainable properties. This study aimed to isolate indigenous bacteria from soils in Indonesia and evaluate their ability to precipitate calcium carbonate. Fifty-seven colonies were isolated from three soil samples of different locations in Indonesia (Cikarang, Medang, and Karawang). Screening of calcite-producing bacteria was carried out using B4 agar medium incubated for 7-14 days. Only twenty isolates showed the potential ability to form precipitate on B4 agar medium. All the twenty isolates were characterized morphologically and biochemically. For molecular analysis, two isolates, LK3 and NC7, were chosen based on the morphological similarities with Bacillus: Gram-positive, spore-forming rod bacteria. According to 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis using the Basic Local Alignment Search Tool (BLAST), LK3 was identified as Bacillus subtilis LK3 and NC7 was identified as Bacillus cereus NC7. At a temperature of 30 °C, B. cereus NC7 showed the highest growth and produced the most calcite precipitates. In addition, pH 9 was the optimum condition for crystal formation by these bacteria. In conclusion, B. cereus NC7 as indigenous bacteria might be feasible to be used for local soil improvement.
Classifying fifty-seven Cucumis (Cucurbitaceae) accessions into six species using leaf architectural traits
Authors: MASUNGSONG LAILANI , Alcala Ailene , Buot Jr. Inocencio , Belarmino Marilyn
Published: August 2022

Abstract. Masungsong LA, Alcala AA, Buot IE Jr., Belarmino MM. 2022. Classifying fifty-seven Cucumis (Cucurbitaceae) accessions into six species using leaf architectural traits. Biodiversitas 23: 4006-4017. In gene banks, there are myriads of accessions that need to be studied, grouped, classified and organized to the proper taxon and hence, be able to manage the accessions efficiently. Using leaf architecture traits, it is the objective of this study to determine the identity and classify the 57 Cucumis accessions in the genebank of Hortanova Farm and Research Center, East-West Seed Company, Inc., Lipa City, Batangas, Philippines.  Five hundred thirteen Cucumis leaf samples across the 57 accessions were collected, measured, thoroughly investigated, and described using leaf architectural characters. Results of leaf architectural analyses focusing on the blade class, apex angle, secondary vein spacing, tertiary vein angle in relation to primary vein, and areole development, revealed that the 57 accessions can be grouped into six (6) species of Cucumis, namely, C. melo subsp. agrestis (Naudin) Pangalo, C. melo var. texanus Naudin, C. melo var. flexuosus (L.) Naudin, C. zambianus Widrl, J.H.Kirkbr., Ghebret. & K.R.Reitsma, C. sativus L., and C. sativus var. hardwickii (Royle) Gabaev. Cucumis sativus and C. sativus var hardwickii were delineated from the rest of the species for having a macrophyll blade class, an odd lobed acute apex angle and an obtuse tertiary vein angle in relation to the primary vein. This delineation is illustrated in the constructed dichotomous botanical key. Utilizing leaf architecture characters is an effective technique to characterize, identify and classify closely related taxa possessing confusing characters.
Acclimation study of Smilax nageliana A.DC., a climber species endemic to East Java, Indonesia
Authors: SOFIAH SITI , HAKIM LUCHMAN , INDRIYANI SERAFINAH , ROBIANSYAH IYAN
Published: August 2022

Abstract. Sofiah S, Hakim L, Indriyani S, Robiansyah I. 2022. Acclimation study of Smilax nageliana A.DC., a climber species endemic to East Java, Indonesia. Biodiversitas 23: 4082-4089. Smilax L. species, popularly known in Indonesia as Canar, belong to the family Smilacaceae and have been used in folk medicine as a tonic against rheumatism and as anti-syphilitic. Smilax nageliana A.DC is an endemic plant to East Java, Indonesia which is only distributed in Ranu Darungan, Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park (BTSNP), and Mt. Kawi. In the effort for its conservation and sustainable management, information regarding the adaptation of S. nageliana to a new environment is necessary. The aim of this study was to investigate the acclimation of S. nageliana under three different treatments, namely (i) in hood application in a greenhouse; (ii) in its natural habitat under shade; (iii) in natural habitat in the open area. Each treatment had ten replications. Survival and growth performance were observed for six months in terms of survival rates, number of new shoots, shoot length, number of leaves and chlorophyll content. Environment factors were also measured including solar intensity, temperature, humidity and water content. Data were analyzed using a two-way Anova. The principal component analysis (PCA) was performed to determine the relationships between environmental components and S. nageliana acclimation performance. The result showed that S. nageliana had a one hundred percent survival rate in the hood application and natural habitat with shade. The best growth performances (i.e., shoot length, the number of leaves, shoots per root and chlorophyll content) were achieved under the hood application. The average temperature was quite influential on the first component (PC1), followed by solar intensity while water affected the second component (PC2). The findings of this study suggest that where sunlight/solar intensity and humidity were controlled, it gave the most optimal results for acclimation of S. nageliana.
Morphological variations of superior sugarcane cultivars (Saccharum officinarum) from Lampung, Indonesia
Authors: WINDIYANI INTAN POESPITA , MAHFUT MAHFUT , PURNOMO PURNOMO , DARYONO BUDI SETIADI
Published: August 2022

Abstract. Windiyani IP, Mahfut, Purnomo, Daryono BS. 2022. Morphological variations of superior sugarcane cultivars (Saccharum officinarum) from Lampung, Indonesia. Biodiversitas 23: 4110-4117. Sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum L.) is the main crop for producing sugar and for various industries. The need for sugar is continuously increasing as the population grows and the diverse demands of industrial needs. One of the efforts to increase sugar production is by developing high-yielding sugarcane varieties. In doing so, performing morphological characterization is necessary so that superior sugarcane cultivars can be identified. This study aimed to determine the morphological variations and phenetic relationships of the crosses of sugarcane cultivars of the collections of PT. Gunung Madu Plantation in Lampung, Indonesia. Morphological observation of 15 sugarcane cultivars was carried out on 37 characters covering leaves, leaf midrib, internodes, stems, eyes, and agronomical aspects. The dendrogram was built using the UPGMA cluster using the Gower’s General Similarity Coefficient algorithm, while the PCA analysis was performed using the Euclidean Distance algorithm using MVSP v.3.1 software. The results of the study showed that there were fairly high morphological variations among the sugarcane cultivars observed. The results showed the superior sugarcane cultivars of PT. GMP collections (i.e., GMP 1, GMP 2, GMP 3, GMP 4, GMP 5, GMP 6, and GMP 7) were not in one cluster due to differences between each parent. The principal component analysis of 37 characters showed that the total variation on axis I contributed 27.62% to the variation with an eigenvalue of 0.25, while axis II was 17.9% with an eigenvalue of 0.16. The information about morphological variations in this study suggests that morphological characters as taxonomic evidence are very good for identifying and analyzing local sugarcane cultivar variations and knowing the closeness of their kinship relationships.
Isolation and identification of Cr-resistant bacteria from the rhizosphere of Tagetes sp. and their ability to reduce Cr(VI)
Authors: MEITINIARTI VINCENTIA IRENE , PUTRI ELSA KRISTIANI , RUNTU ATHALIA EUGENIA , NUGROHO RULLY ADI , KASMIYATI SRI
Published: August 2022

Abstract. Meitiniarti VI, Putri EK, Runtu AE, Nugroho RA, Kasmiyati S. 2022. Isolation and identification of Cr-resistant bacteria from the rhizosphere of Tagetes sp. and their ability to reduce Cr(VI). Biodiversitas 23: 4118-4124. Bioremediation involving the interaction of plants with microorganisms is a technique for improving the environment polluted with chromium hexavalent [Cr(VI)]. Marigolds (Tagetes sp.) are known to be a hyperaccumulator plant for Cr(VI) and there are microbes in its rhizosphere that enable the plant tolerant to heavy metals. The aims of this study were to isolate and identify indigenous rhizobacteria resistant to Cr(VI) from Tagetes sp. and to test the ability of these bacterial isolates to reduce Cr(VI). Three isolates of Cr(VI) resistant bacteria were obtained in this study, namely Micrococcus luteus RT-9, Stenotrophomonas maltophilia RT-12, and Brevundimonas sp. RT-23. M. luteus RT-9 and S. maltophilia RT-12 which were resistant to Cr(VI) 100 mg L-1 and their mixture were tested for their ability to reduce Cr(VI) in a liquid medium. Microbacterium sp. SpR3 obtained by the previous study was used as a reference. The results showed that the isolate of S. maltophilia RT-12 had a higher ability (2.2 mg L-1 h-1) than M. luteus RT-9 (0.9 mg L-1 h-1). S. maltophilia RT-12 had the ability to reduce Cr(VI) similar to Microbacterium sp. SpR3. The mixed inoculation of M. luteus RT-9, S. maltophilia RT-12, and Microbacterium sp. SpR3 did not show a difference in the reduction ability of Cr (VI) compared to pure cultures.
Diversity and abundance of fruit flies (Diptera: Tephritidae) on different host plants in Depok and Bogor Districts, West Java, Indonesia
Authors: Tarno Hagus , Octavia Evy , Himawan Toto , Setiawan Yogo
Published: August 2022

Abstract. Tarno H, Octavia E, Himawan T, Setiawan Y. 2022. Detection of fruit flies (Diptera: Tephritidae) Using Cue-Lure and Methyl Eugenol in Steiner Traps in Depok City and Bogor District, West Java, Indonesia. Biodiversitas 23: 4202-4208. Fruit flies (Diptera: Tephritidae) are one of the most economically important insect pests worldwide. Two types of attractants are recommended for monitoring and controlling fruit flies: methyl eugenol (ME) and cue-lure (CL). The objective of this study was to investigate the species richness and abundance of fruit flies (Diptera: Tephritidae) using methyl eugenol (ME) and cue-lure (CL) in Depok City and Bogor District, West Java, Indonesia. The study was conducted in three sites of fruit orchards in Bogor District i.e., Malay apple (Syzygium malaccense), Lemon (Citrus limon), Papaya (Carica papaya) and two sites of fruit orchards in Depok District i.e., carambola (Averrhoa carambola) and guavas (Psidium guajava). Male fruit flies were trapped using Steiner traps baited with methyl eugenol (ME) and cue-lure (CL). There were 11 fruit fly species collected from this study i.e., Bactrocera albistrigata, B. carambolae, B. dorsalis, B. neocognata, B. umbrosa, B. verbascifoliae, Dacus conopsoides, D. longicornis, Zeugodacus calumniata, Z. caudatus, and Z. cucurbitae. In this study, B. was , D. conopsoides, D. longicornis, and Z. caudatus were only collected in Steiner traps baited with CL and B. dorsalis and B. umbrosa also only responded to ME. During sampling periods, 20,217 male adult fruit flies were collected. The highest relative abundance attracted to ME was B. carambolae and CL was Z. cucurbitae.  In this study, B. albistrigata, B. calumniate, D. longicornis, Z. caudatus and Z. cucurbitae were significantly more attracted to CL than ME. Whereas, B. carambolae, B. dorsalis, B. umbrosa, and B. verbascifoliae were significantly more attracted to ME than CL. Our study showed also did not find invasive species in Depok City and Bogor District, West Java, Indonesia. Our study can be used as a method for monitoring and controlling fruit flies, namely Steiner trap with CL for Z. cucurbitae and Steiner trap with ME for B. carambolae, B. dorsalis and B. umbrosa in Depok City and Bogor District, West Java, Indonesia.
Molecular detection of extended spectrum ?-lactamase producing Klebsiella pneumoniae from wild deer
Authors: RIWU KATTY HENDRIANA PRISCILIA , RANTAM FEDIK ABDUL , EFFENDI MUSTOFA HELMI , KHAIRULLAH ASWIN RAFIF , WIDODO AGUS , KJURNIAWAN SHENDY CANADYA , UGBO EMMANUEL NNABUIKE
Published: August 2022

Abstract. Riwu KHP, Rantam FA, Effendi MH, Khairullah AR, Widodo A, Kurniawan SC, Ugbo EN. 2022. Molecular detection of extended spectrum ?-lactamase producing Klebsiella pneumoniae from wild deer. Biodiversitas 23: 4256-4262. Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has become a severe threat worldwide and its remote cause remains unclear in most parts due to the global emergence of new resistance mechanisms by microorganisms. This research aimed to identify the presence of extended-spectrum ?-lactamase (ESBL) Klebsiella pneumoniae from wild deer feces in several places in East Java and East Nusa Tenggara. This study used 129 fresh feces samples collected from wild deer and analyzed for the presence of K. pneumoniae using standard microbiological techniques. An antibiotic sensitivity test was performed using Kirby-Bauer Disc Diffusion Method. The isolates were confirmed to the ESBL producer by double disk test and ESBL genes were identified by PCR. Nine samples (6.98%) were K. pneumoniae positive out of the 129 wild deer fresh feces. Among the nine K. pneumoniae isolates studied 3 (33.33%) were multidrug resistant, East Java (1 isolate) and East Nusa Tenggara (2 isolates). All the multidrug-resistant K. pneumoniae isolates were ESBL positive and also harbored blaTEM gene. The presence of MDR, and ESBL-producing K. pneumoniae isolates was confirmed in wild deer and this explained that wild deer should be considered a source of transmission of MDR and ESBL to public health.
Block Design Performance in Williams Syndrome: Visuospatial Abilities or Task Approach Skills?
Authors: Back Elisa , Farran Emily K. , Van Herwegen Jo
Published: August 2022

The block design task (BDT) is a visuospatial measure that individuals with Williams syndrome (WS) perform poorly on. However, it is unclear what underlies their impaired performance. This study investigated whether poorer performance is a result of visuospatial difficulties, executive function (EF) difficulties, atypical looking strategies, or a combination of these. Eleven individuals with WS participated alongside mental age (MA)- and chronological age (CA)-matched control groups. Eye movements were recorded while they took the BDT. Dwell times and visits to areas of interest in WS differed from CA, but not MA, groups. Findings suggest that BDT abilities of individuals with WS are delayed, but not atypical. Delays result from visuospatial and attention-switching difficulties rather than atypical looking strategies.
Unique Pain Responses in Different Etiological Subgroups of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
Authors: Defrin Ruth , Benromano Tali , Pick Chaim G.
Published: August 2022

We studied whether there exist variations in pain responses between different intellectual and developmental disability (IDD) etiologies. Self-reports and facial expressions (Facial Action Coding System = FACS) were recorded during experimental pressure stimuli and compared among 31 individuals with IDD—13 with cerebral palsy (CP), nine with Down syndrome (DS), nine with unspecified origin (UIDD)—and among 15 typically developing controls (TDCs). The CP and DS groups had higher pain ratings and FACS scores compared to the UIDD and TDC groups, and steeper stimulus-response functions. The DS group exhibited the most diverse facial expressions. There were variations in the foci of facial expressions between groups. It appears that different IDD etiologies display distinct pain responses.
Nonlinear spectral broadening of a dual-carrier electro-optic frequency comb in a graphene oxide cladded silicon-rich nitride hybrid waveguide
Authors: Mondal Partha , Selvaraja Shankar K.
Published: August 2022

We demonstrate a detailed theoretical analysis describing the generation of an electro-optic comb (EOC) in the near-IR range through discrete phase and amplitude modulation driven by radio frequency (RF) signal generators. Furthermore, the generated EOC spectra suffer nonlinear spectral broadening while propagating through a hybrid Si-rich nitride (SRN) waveguide structure integrated with two-dimensional (2D) layered graphene oxide (GO) films. We perform a detailed analysis to investigate the influence of GO layers, pump wavelength detuning, and other waveguide parameters on the evolution of comb spectra propagating through the hybrid waveguide structure. Owing to the strong modal overlapping between the SRN waveguides and the highly nonlinear GO films, the nonlinearity of the system is enhanced effectively, and broadband comb spectra have been achieved in the near-IR range. Furthermore, we investigate the spectral coherence of the generated comb spectra under different input conditions. The results exhibit strong potential to generate a tunable frequency comb with high spectral coherence in the near-IR range by employing the hybrid waveguide structure.
Plasmonic structure of zinc (Zn) and zinc oxide (ZnO) on a tapered optical fiber
Authors: Kaur Navneet , Das Gautam
Published: August 2022

The authors developed plasmonic structures of zinc (Zn) and zinc oxide (ZnO) on the surface of a tapered optical fiber using optical tweezing. The powdered Zn or ZnO was added to gold nanorods (GNRs) solution and sonicated before tweezing. The concentration of the mixture was 0.5 µg/µl. The GNRs were present in the cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) solution. The authors investigated the plasmonic structures and explored the effect of the tweezing conditions on the distribution of the Zn or ZnO on the tapered fiber surface.
Operating performance of silicon photonic optical switches integrated with WDM filters for low-latency edge-computing platforms
Authors: Matsunaga Naoki , Uenohara Hiroyuki
Published: August 2022

We investigated the performance of a silicon photonic device integrating pn-junction-type Mach-Zehnder interferometer optical switches with wavelength-division-demultiplexing and multiplexing (WDM-DEMUX and MUX) filters that perform switching operations to transmit packet data between edge computing. After separating the 1535 and 1565 nm signals with the Mach-Zehnder delay interferometer-type WDM-DEMUX/MUX filters, cascaded dynamic switching operation with a few nanoseconds turn-on/off for On-Off keying (OOK) signals at 10 Gbps were achieved. The power penalty difference between the input and output was within 0.5 dB for 1565-nm signals. We also verified the switching operation at a bit rate of 25 Gbps and observed clear eye openings.
Focal stack camera: depth estimation performance comparison and design exploration
Authors: Huang Zhengyu , Fessler Jeffrey A. , Norris Theodore B.
Published: August 2022

The concept of focal stack cameras based on transparent sensors has been recently demonstrated, enabling depth sensing in a single exposure from a focal stack. This study investigates how the depth estimation accuracy is affected by numerous camera parameters, including aperture size, sensor resolution and number of sensor planes. We investigate the dependence of these parameters on the deep learning based depth estimation performance and make a comparison between the focal stack camera and the light field camera, thus providing guidelines for future focal stack camera design.
Macrophages take up VLDL-sized emulsion particles through caveolae-mediated endocytosis and excrete part of the internalized triglycerides as fatty acids
Authors: Deng Lei , Vrieling Frank , Stienstra Rinke , Hooiveld Guido J. , Feitsma Anouk L. , Kersten Sander
Published: August 2022

Triglycerides are carried in the bloodstream as part of very low-density lipoproteins (VLDLs) and chylomicrons, which represent the triglyceride-rich lipoproteins. Triglyceride-rich lipoproteins and their remnants contribute to atherosclerosis, possibly by carrying remnant cholesterol and/or by exerting a proinflammatory effect on macrophages. Nevertheless, little is known about how macrophages process triglyceride-rich lipoproteins. Here, using VLDL-sized triglyceride-rich emulsion particles, we aimed to study the mechanism by which VLDL triglycerides are taken up, processed, and stored in macrophages. Our results show that macrophage uptake of VLDL-sized emulsion particles is dependent on lipoprotein lipase (LPL) and requires the lipoprotein-binding C-terminal domain but not the catalytic N-terminal domain of LPL. Subsequent internalization of VLDL-sized emulsion particles by macrophages is carried out by caveolae-mediated endocytosis, followed by triglyceride hydrolysis catalyzed by lysosomal acid lipase. It is shown that STARD3 is required for the transfer of lysosomal fatty acids to the ER for subsequent storage as triglycerides, while NPC1 likely is involved in promoting the extracellular efflux of fatty acids from lysosomes. Our data provide novel insights into how macrophages process VLDL triglycerides and suggest that macrophages have the remarkable capacity to excrete part of the internalized triglycerides as fatty acids.
Analysis of sociodemographic and clinical factors associated with Lassa fever disease and mortality in Nigeria
Authors: Olayinka Adebola T. , Elimian Kelly , Ipadeola Oladipupo , Dan-Nwafor Chioma , Gibson Jack , Ochu Chinwe , Furuse Yuki , Iniobong Akanimo , Akano Adejoke , Enenche Lorna , Onoja Michael , Uzoho Chukwuemeka , Ugbogulu Nkem , Makava Favour , Arinze Chinedu , Namara Geoffrey , Muwanguzi Esther , Jan Kamji , Ukponu Winifred , Okwor Tochi , Anueyiagu Chimezie , Saleh Muhammad , Ahumibe Anthony , Eneh Chibuzo , Ilori Elsie , Mba Nwando , Ihekweazu Chikwe
Published: August 2022

Over past decades, there has been increasing geographical spread of Lassa fever (LF) cases across Nigeria and other countries in West Africa. This increase has been associated with significant morbidity and mortality despite increasing focus on the disease by both local and international scientists. Many of these studies on LF have been limited to few specialised centres in the country. This study was done to identify sociodemographic and clinical predictors of LF disease and related deaths across Nigeria. We analysed retrospective surveillance data on suspected LF cases collected during January-June 2018 and 2019. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were used to identify the factors independently associated with laboratory–confirmed LF diagnosis, and with LF–related deaths. There were confirmed 815 of 1991 suspected LF cases with complete records during this period. Of these, 724/815 confirmed cases had known clinical outcomes, of whom 100 died. LF confirmation was associated with presentation of gastrointestinal tract (aOR 3.47, 95% CI: 2.79–4.32), ear, nose and throat (aOR 2.73, 95% CI: 1.80–4.15), general systemic (aOR 2.12, 95% CI: 1.65–2.70) and chest/respiratory (aOR 1.71, 95% CI: 1.28–2.29) symptoms. Other factors were being male (aOR 1.32, 95% CI: 1.06–1.63), doing business/trading (aOR 2.16, 95% CI: 1.47–3.16) and farming (aOR 1.73, 95% CI: 1.12–2.68). Factors associated with LF mortality were a one-year increase in age (aOR 1.03, 95% CI: 1.01–1.04), bleeding (aOR 2.07, 95% CI: 1.07–4.00), and central nervous manifestations (aOR 5.02, 95% CI: 3.12–10.16). Diverse factors were associated with both LF disease and related death. A closer look at patterns of clinical variables would be helpful to support early detection and management of cases. The findings would also be useful for planning preparedness and response interventions against LF in the country and region.
A study of quantitative indicators for slice sorting in cine-mode 4DCT
Authors: Kim Changhwan , Kim Hojae , Kim Sung-woo , Goh Youngmoon , Park Min-jae , Kim Hojin , Jeong Chiyoung , Cho Byungchul , Choi Eun Kyung , Lee Sang-wook , Yoon Sang Min , Kim Su Ssan , Park Jin-hong , Jung Jinhong , Song Si Yeol , Kwak Jungwon
Published: August 2022

The uncertainties of four-dimensional computed tomography (4DCT), also called as residual motion artefacts (RMA), induced from irregular respiratory patterns can degrade the quality of overall radiotherapy. This study aims to quantify and reduce those uncertainties. A comparative study on quantitative indicators for RMA was performed, and based on this, we proposed a new 4DCT sorting method that is applicable without disrupting the current clinical workflow. In addition to the default phase sorting strategy, both additional amplitude information from external surrogates and the quantitative metric for RMA, investigated in this study, were introduced. The comparison of quantitative indicators and the performance of the proposed sorting method were evaluated via 10 cases of breath-hold (BH) CT and 30 cases of 4DCT. It was confirmed that N-RMSD (normalised root-mean-square-deviation) was best matched to the visual standards of our institute’s regime, manual sorting method, and could accurately represent RMA. The performance of the proposed method to reduce 4DCT uncertainties was improved by about 18.8% in the averaged value of N-RMSD compared to the default phase sorting method. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study that evaluates RMA indicators using both BHCT and 4DCT with visual-criteria-based manual sorting and proposes an improved 4DCT sorting strategy based on them.
Many faces of survey equipment failures during marine research at sea—Risk analysis
Authors: Kubacka Maria , Gajewski Lucjan , Burchacz Marcin , Matczak Maciej , Janowski Paweł , Piotrowicz Jakub
Published: August 2022

Research of the marine environment is still a huge challenge for humanity. Each survey campaign is a complex project, where research vessels and relevant survey equipment is used. One of the problems that limit the success of working at sea are failures of survey equipment. The aim of this paper was to identify the most common survey equipment failures during marine research, find their causes and analyze identified risks. The authors employ risk assessment methodology in maritime research at sea and present its practical utility and contribution in social and organizational development. For this purpose we based the analysis on the review of relevant project documentation (Daily Progress Reports, Observation Cards) and the questionnaire addressed to specialists who carry out their survey work on board research vessels and also people involved in the implementation of offshore projects. The research reveals that 76.3% respondents participated in a project which had to be stopped due to a failure of the survey equipment that required return to the port which highlights that the problem which was analyzed is of particular importance. The questionnaire form was designed to obtain as much information as possible on the types of failures with examples and also their causes according to three groups: human factors, technical factors and forces of nature. Twelve risks were identified and analyzed. The authors also stress the relationship between the quality of research project management and its implementation in the context of the failure rate of measuring equipment.
Fractal analysis highlights analogies in arenaceous tubes of Sabellaria alveolata (Metazoa, Polychaeta) and agglutinated tests of foraminifera (Protista)
Authors: Mancin N. , dell’Acqua F. , Riccardi M. P. , Lo Bue G. , Marchini A.
Published: August 2022

Bioconstructions of Sabellaria alveolata (Polychaeta Sabellariidae) from southern Sicily (Central Mediterranean) were sampled and analysed through a multidisciplinary approach in order to unravel the construction pattern of arenaceous tubes and explore possible analogies existing between the worm tubes and the agglutinated tests of benthic foraminifera (Protista). Scanning Electron Microscopy and Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy analyses were carried out on entire tubes as well as sectioned ones. Results show that arenaceous tubes are built following a rigorous architectural framework, based on selection and methodical arrangement of the agglutinated grains, and show surprising analogies with the test microstructure previously observed in agglutinated foraminifera. The grain distribution detected in both model species bioconstructions was analysed using a fractal numerical model (Hausdorff fractal dimension). Collected data show that in both organisms the grains were distributed according to a fractal model, indicating that the evolutionary process may have led to finding the same optimal constructive strategy across organisms with an independent evolutionary history, notwithstanding different geometrical scales. Furthermore, in sectioned tubes we observed microplastic fragments agglutinated within the arenaceous wall and in the inter-tube area. This unexpected finding shows that marine animals can be affected by microplastic pollution not only in soft tissues, but also engineered hard structures, and suggests the problem is more pervasive than estimated so far.
Transcriptome analysis of flower bud identified genes associated with pistil abortions between long branches and spur twigs in apricots (Prunus armeniaca L.)
Authors: Zhang Qiu-ping , Wei Xiao
Published: August 2022

Pistil abortions of flower buds occur frequently in many apricot cultivars, especially in long branches. However, the molecular mechanism underlying pistil abortion in apricots remains unclear. To better understand the molecular mechanism of pistil abortions between long branches and spur twigs, paraffin sections and high-throughput sequencing technology were employed to analyze the expression patterns of genes associated with pistil abortions during later flower bud development stage in ‘Shajinhong’ apricot. The result of stage III (separation of bud scales) was the critical stage of pistil abortion in apricots. A total of 163 differentially expressed genes were identified as candidate genes related to pistil abortion in long branches. These genes are implicated in programmed cell death, hormone signaling, cell wall degeneration, and the carbohydrate metabolism pathway. The results showed that the up-regulation of gene expression of Xyloglucan endotransglucosylase/hydrolase and β-glucosidase in flower buds might be the direct cause of cell wall breakdown and pistil necrosis in long branches. We hypothesize that there is a molecular relationship between pistil abortion before blooming and cellulose degradation, and then carbohydrate transport in the case of carbon deficiency in long branches. Our work provides new insights into cellulose degradation in abortion pistils and valuable information on flower development in apricots, and also provides a useful reference for cultivation regulation in apricot or other fruit crops.
Quantifying the number of deaths among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cancer patients that could be avoided by removing survival inequalities, Australia 2005–2016
Authors: Dasgupta Paramita , Garvey Gail , Baade Peter D.
Published: August 2022

Background

While Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have poorer cancer survival than other Australians, absolute measures of survival disparities are lacking. This study quantified crude probabilities of deaths from cancer and other causes and estimated the number of avoidable deaths for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders if these survival disparities were removed.

Methods

Flexible parametric relative survival models were used to estimate reported measures for a population-based cohort of 709,239 Australians (12,830 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples), 2005–2016.

Results

Among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, the 5-year crude probability of cancer death was 0.44, while it was 0.07 for other causes of death. These probabilities were 0.07 and 0.03 higher than among other Australians, respectively. Magnitude of these disparities varied by cancer type and ranged for cancer deaths from <0.05 for pancreatic, prostate and uterine cancers to 0.20 for cervical and head and neck cancers. Values for disparity in other causes of death were generally lower. Among an average cohort of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples diagnosed per year over the most recent five-year diagnosis period (2012–2016, n = 1,269), approximately 133 deaths within 5 years of diagnosis were potentially avoidable if they had the same overall survival as other Australians, with 94 of these deaths due to cancer. The total number of avoided deaths over the entire study period (2005–2016) was 1,348, with 947 of these deaths due to cancer.

Conclusions

Study findings suggest the need to reduce the prevalence of risk factors prevalence, increase screening participation, and improve early detection, diagnosis and treatment rates to achieve more equitable outcomes for a range of cancer types. Reported measures provide unique insights into the impact of a cancer diagnosis among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples from a different perspective to standard relative survival measures.
Co-infection of HIV or HCV among HBsAg positive delivering mothers and its associated factors in governmental hospitals in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Tesfu Mebrihit Arefaine , Belay Nega Berhe , Habtemariam Tilahun Teklehaymanot
Published: August 2022

Background

Blood borne viral infections such as Hepatitis B virus (HBV), Hepatitis C virus (HCV), and Human Immunodeficiency virus (HIV) cause substantial mortality and morbidity worldwide. Viral hepatitis during pregnancy is closely related to high risks of maternal and neonatal complications. In Ethiopia, only a little information is available on co-infection of HCV or HIV among Hepatitis B surface Antigen (HBsAg) positive pregnant mothers. Thus, the study aimed to determine HIV or HCV co-infection and associated risk factors among HBsAg positive delivering mothers.

Method

A health facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted in five governmental hospitals in Addis Ababa among 265 HBsAg positive delivering mothers in the year 2019 and 2020. A purposive sampling technique was used to select the study participants. Structured questionnaires and laboratory test results were used to collect the data. SPSS version 20 software was used to enter and analyze the data. Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify independent predictors of HIV or HCV co-infections.

Results

Of the HBsAg positive delivering mothers, 9 (3.4%) and 3 (1.1%) were co-infected with HIV and HCV, respectively. None of them were with triplex infection. All of the socio-demographic characteristics were not significantly associated with both HIV and HCV co-infections. Mothers who had a history of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) were 9.3 times more likely to have HBV-HIV co-infection (AOR = 9.3; 95% CI: 1.84–47.1). Mothers who had multiple sexual partners were 5.96 times more likely to have HIV co-infection (AOR = 5.96; 95% CI: 1.074–33.104). The odds of having HBV-HIV co-infection were 5.5 times higher among mothers who had a history of sharing shavers, razors, and earrings (AOR = 5.5;95% CI: 1.014–29.69). HCV co-infection was not significantly associated with any of the potential risk factors.

Conclusion

This dual infection rate of HBsAg positive delivering mother with HIV or HCV indicates that a substantial number of infants born in Ethiopia are at high risk of mother-to-child transmission (MTCT) of HBV, HIV, and HCV. Thus, all pregnant mothers need to be screened for HBV, HCV, and HIV during antenatal care, and also need implementation of prevention mechanisms of MTCT of these viral infections.
Full-lactation performance of multiparous dairy cows with differing residual feed intake
Authors: Karlsson Johanna , Danielsson Rebecca , Åkerlind Maria , Holtenius Kjell
Published: August 2022

Residual feed intake (RFI) is an efficiency trait underpinning profitability and environmental sustainability in dairy production. This study compared performance during a complete lactation of 36 multiparous dairy cows divided into three equal-sized groups with high (HRFI), intermediate (IRFI) or low RFI (LRFI). Residual feed intake was determined by two different equations. Residual feed intake according to the NorFor system was calculated as (RFINorFor) = (NEintake)–(NEmaintenance + NEgestation + NEmilk—NEmobilisation + NEdeposition). Residual feed intake according to the USA National Research Council (NRC) (RFINRC) was calculated as: RFI = DMI − predicted DMI where predicteds DMI = [(0.372× ECM)+(0.0968×BW0.75)]×(1−e−0.192×(DIM/7+3.67)). Cows in the HRFINorFor group showed higher daily CH4 production, CH4/ECM and CH4 yield (g/kg DMI) than IRFINorFor and LRFINorFor cows. Cows characterized by high efficiency (LRFINorFor) according to the NorFor system had lower body weight. Dry matter intake and apparent dry matter digestibility were not affected by efficiency group but milk yield was lower in the low efficiency, HRFINorFor, group. Cows characterized by high efficiency according to the NRC system (LRFINRC) had lower dry matter intake while yield of CH4 was higher. Daily CH4 production and CH4 g/kg ECM did not differ between RFINRC groups. Dairy cows characterized by high efficiency (both LRFINorFor and LRFINRC cows) over a complete lactation mobilized more of their body reserves in early lactation as well as during the complete lactation. The results also indicated great phenotypic variation in RFI between different stages the lactation.
Spatiotemporal distribution of Ceratonova shasta in the lower Columbia River Basin and effects of exposure on survival of juvenile chum salmon Oncorhynchus keta
Authors: Homel Kristen , Alexander Julie D.
Published: August 2022

In the Columbia River Basin (CRB), USA, anthropogenic factors ranging from dam construction to land use changes have modified riverine flow and temperature regimes and degraded salmon habitat. These factors are directly implicated in native salmon and steelhead (Oncorhynchus species) population declines and also indirectly cause mortality by altering outcomes of ecological interactions. For example, attenuated flows and warmer water temperatures drive increased parasite densities and in turn, overwhelm salmonid resistance thresholds, resulting in high disease and mortality. Outcomes of interactions between the freshwater myxozoan parasite, Ceratonova shasta, and its salmonid hosts (e.g., coho O. kisutch and Chinook salmon O. tshawytscha) are well-described, but less is known about effects on chum salmon O. keta, which have a comparatively brief freshwater residency. The goal of this study was to describe the distribution of C. shasta relative to chum salmon habitat in the CRB and assess its potential to cause mortality in juvenile chum salmon (listed as threatened in the CRB under the U.S. Endangered Species Act). We measured C. shasta densities in water samples collected from chum salmon habitat throughout the lower CRB during the period of juvenile chum salmon outmigration, 2018–2020. In 2019, we exposed caged chum salmon fry from two hatchery stocks at three C. shasta-positive sites to assess infection prevalence and survival. Results demonstrated: (1) C. shasta was detected in spawning streams from which chum salmon have been extirpated but was not detected in contemporary spawning habitat while juvenile chum salmon were present, (2) spatiotemporal overlap occurs between C. shasta and juvenile chum salmon in the Columbia River mainstem, and (3) low densities of C. shasta caused lethal infection in chum salmon fry from both hatchery stocks. Collectively, our results suggest C. shasta may limit recovery of chum salmon now and in the future.
Biolarviciding implementation in southern Tanzania: Scalability opportunities and challenges
Authors: Matindo Athuman Yusuph , Meshi Eugene Benjamin , Kapologwe Ntuli Angyelile , Kengia James Tumaini , Kajange Stella , Chaki Prosper , Munisi David Zadock
Published: August 2022

Background

The resistance to insecticides among malaria vectors poses a global challenge in the efforts towards malaria elimination. This calls for an addition of larval control methods such as biolarviciding. However, the implementation of biolarviciding in Tanzania has been very low. Therefore, this study explored factors affecting the implementation of biolarviciding in the councils of Southern Tanzania.

Methods

A mixed method descriptive qualitative, cross-sectional study design was used to collect data from 32 community leaders through key informant interviews and 12 Vectors Control Coordinators through in-depth interviews and questionnaire interviews and document review of implementation reports in 12 councils. Data were analysed using ATLAS.ti version 8, where content analysis was performed and SPSS for the quantitative data.

Results

The study found low implementation of biolarviciding intervention in 9 out of 12 (75%) surveyed councils. All Vector Control Coordinators reported a shortage of at least one type of resources: funds, trained personnel, transport, supply of biolarvicide, and equipment; low community involvement (50%) and low level of community participation 83.3% (10/12).

Conclusion

This study highlights resource inadequacy and low community participation as main barriers to the implementation of biolarviciding. Availing adequate resources and strengthening community participation through involvement in all stages of implementation is crucial for successful and sustainable implementation.